Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The City of Brownsville is actively enforcing its Electioneering Ordinance, No. 2024-1751, to ensure safe, accessible, and orderly voting at all City-owned polling locations. The regulations are designed to keep entrances clear, protect pedestrians and motorists, and provide equal access for all voters and candidates.
The ordinance was approved by the Brownsville City Commission on second and final reading on August 20, 2024. The measure aligns with Texas Election Code requirements, including Section 259.003, and governs electioneering activities at City-owned polling facilities such as the Brownsville Public Library and the Southmost Public Library.
Enforcement efforts have increased during Early Voting following observed congestion, improperly placed signage, and obstructions affecting voter access and traffic flow. Through coordinated efforts by the Office of the City Secretary, Code Compliance, and law enforcement personnel, the City is monitoring compliance to ensure that entrances remain clear, emergency access is maintained, and voters can safely enter and exit polling locations.
“The City of Brownsville fully supports the democratic process and the rights of candidates and residents to participate in elections,” said Alan Guard, CGFO, Interim Brownsville City Manager. “At the same time, we have a responsibility to ensure that polling locations remain safe and accessible. This ordinance allows us to maintain order, protect motorists and pedestrians, and prevent traffic hazards during voting periods.”
The ordinance reinforces the existing 100-foot buffer zone prohibiting electioneering near polling place entrances, consistent with Texas Election Code §61.003. It also limits the number and size of political signs at City-controlled polling sites, restricts placement within public rights-of-way (ROW) and areas that may obstruct traffic visibility, and requires responsible contact information on signage. Additionally, signs, literature, and canopies are not permitted on City property beginning 24 hours before voting starts and continuing through 24 hours after voting concludes.
Further provisions prohibit trailers, booths, food trucks, and food distribution at City-owned polling locations during voting periods. The use of amplified sound devices within 1,000 feet of a polling place is also prohibited to prevent distractions and reduce the risk of traffic-related incidents. Canopies must meet size limitations and may only be placed in designated areas without interfering with vehicular or pedestrian movement.
Our responsibility is to ensure that every voter has safe and unobstructed access to the polls while applying the same rules consistently to all candidates,” said Mayra Rios, TRMC, Brownsville City Secretary. “These regulations support fairness, accessibility, and an orderly voting environment for our community.”
Violations of the ordinance are subject to enforcement measures. A first violation may result in a warning, while subsequent violations may lead to fines of up to $500, or up to $2,000 if related to public health and safety concerns.
The full ordinance and related election resources are available at: https://www.brownsvilletx.gov/2458/Elections-Resources
For additional information, contact the Office of the City Secretary at (956) 548-6042 or at Mayra.Rios@BrownsvilleTX.gov.
Information source: The City of Brownsville
