During the recent Crockett City Council meeting held on January 8, 2024, significant discussions centered around securing financial assistance for critical water and wastewater infrastructure improvements. The council focused on applying for funding from the Texas Water Development Board, which includes both the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund.

Mayor and council members emphasized the urgency of these applications, particularly in light of existing mandates from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regarding the city's wastewater treatment plant. The council is currently under orders to upgrade the facility, which is essential for compliance and public health. The proposed projects could potentially receive substantial financial support, with estimates suggesting that the city could secure around $8 million in loan forgiveness for a total project cost of $12 million.

The council unanimously approved resolutions to submit applications for both the drinking water and wastewater improvement projects. This funding is crucial as it may alleviate some of the financial burdens on the city while ensuring that necessary upgrades are completed in a timely manner.

In addition to the water-related discussions, the council also reviewed invoices from the Crockett Economic and Industrial Development Corporation. However, there was some hesitation regarding the approval of these invoices, as council members expressed the need for further review before making a decision.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's proactive approach to addressing infrastructure needs and compliance issues, reflecting a commitment to improving public services and ensuring the health and safety of the community. The next steps will involve awaiting responses from the Texas Water Development Board regarding the funding applications, which will be pivotal for the city's future development plans.