East Texas water managers unite against controversial well permits from investor Bass

The Henderson County Commissioners Court convened on July 10, 2025, to address pressing concerns regarding water resource management and the potential impact of new water well permits in the region. The meeting featured public testimonies from local residents and water industry representatives, highlighting widespread apprehension about the implications of these permits.

The session began with a call for the county to deny a specific water well permit, emphasizing the urgency of the matter. Troy Slaughter, general manager of Virginia Hill Water Road, voiced his concerns about the potential for new wells to adversely affect existing water sources. He noted that the permit process is merely the initial step, warning that if denied, the applicants would likely appeal, necessitating legal action from the community. Slaughter underscored the financial disparity between local water companies and the well-drilling entities, which could hinder their ability to contest the permits effectively.

Johnny Parker, another speaker and water business professional, echoed these sentiments, stressing that the issue extends beyond Henderson County to affect all of East Texas. He pointed out that the proposed drilling activities could lead to significant resource depletion, particularly as external investors seek to capitalize on the region's water supply. Parker urged the community to unite against these developments, citing the need for a robust legal strategy to combat the influence of well-funded entities.

Following the public comments, the court turned to legal counsel for guidance on the next steps. The county attorney's office confirmed that there is a basis for the county to contest the permits, given the public interest demonstrated during the meeting. The court discussed the possibility of designating a representative to lead the legal efforts and considered engaging an external law firm, Allison and Bass, which specializes in such matters and has been retained by neighboring counties facing similar challenges.

The meeting concluded with a clear call to action for the community to remain vigilant and organized as they navigate the complexities of water resource management and the potential legal battles ahead. The commissioners acknowledged the importance of addressing these issues collaboratively to protect the region's vital water resources.