Cameron County approves 30% increase to RV site rates at Isla Blanca and Andy Bowie parks

The Commissioners Court approved a parks staff recommendation to raise RV campsite rates at Isla Blanca Park and Andy Bowie Park effective Oct. 1, 2026. Staff proposed a year‑one 30% increase to site rates, a $16 daily charge for electrical and internet on daily/weekly stays and a $106 monthly electrical/internet surcharge for monthly customers.

In the presentation staff estimated the year‑one revenue impact as roughly $161,764 above a four‑year average for nine months of projected revenue, and a year‑two projection of about $1,500,000 above the four‑year average if full 12‑month revenues are realized. The parks presenter said operations costs have risen since the last rate adjustment (2018) and that the proposal is intended to reduce reliance on fund balance: "Staff is recommending a 30% increase to the RV site rates for the park for year 1," the presenter stated. Commissioners discussed competitiveness with neighboring counties and the inclusion of utility costs in the rate; the court approved the two‑year schedule (30% then a 4% increase in year 2) on a voice vote.

The court directed staff to return after the second year for reassessment. The motion to approve was moved by Commissioner Lopez and seconded by Commissioner Benavides; the transcript records the approval as "motion carries."