Water Crisis Looms as Aqua Texas Faces Legal Challenges

In a recent government meeting, the executive director of the Watershed Association voiced strong opposition to a proposed subdivision in Wood Creek, citing significant concerns regarding the water and wastewater services provided by Aqua Texas. The director urged the commissioners to table and ultimately deny the subdivision request, highlighting a series of severe operational issues with Aqua Texas.

Key points raised included Aqua Texas's lack of a legal water supply and an operating permit from the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District. The company has reportedly exceeded its groundwater pumping permits by over 150 million gallons in recent years and has failed to resolve a notice of violation with the district. Alarmingly, Aqua Texas's permit expired on December 31, 2023, raising further questions about its ability to provide adequate services.

The director emphasized the environmental impact of Aqua Texas's operations, noting that the prolonged closure of Jacob's Well—222 days in 2023—was the longest in recorded history and attributed to the company's poor maintenance practices. This situation has not only threatened local water resources but has also led to significant economic losses for the community, particularly affecting the multimillion-dollar tourism industry in the area.

Concerns were also raised about Aqua Texas's misrepresentation of customer numbers to the Public Utility Commission, which could jeopardize the water supply for the proposed development of 1,300 homes and 2,300 undeveloped lots. The director called for a thorough groundwater availability analysis and suggested a temporary moratorium on new water taps until Aqua Texas can secure a legal water supply and valid permits.

In conclusion, the Watershed Association urged the commissioners to take decisive action to protect vital water resources and collaborate with local stakeholders to address regional water availability and sustainability challenges. The formation of a task force was recommended to prioritize water conservation efforts in the community.