MacGregor Council Faces Concerns Over Water Management in New Housing Development

During the recent McGregor City Council meeting held on July 14, 2025, significant concerns regarding the city's wastewater infrastructure and upcoming developments were raised by both council members and residents. The discussions highlighted the pressing need for upgrades to the wastewater system, which is currently inadequate to support the anticipated growth in housing and commercial developments.

City officials reported that the wastewater lines in certain areas require substantial upsizing, with an estimated cost of around $10 million for necessary improvements, including the rebuilding of the Spring Valley Lift Station. Unfortunately, the current funding from TIRS 2 is insufficient to cover these expenses, and developers have shown reluctance to shoulder the costs. As a potential interim solution, the city is exploring options with a company called Water Fleet, which offers smaller package plants.

Residents voiced their concerns during the public hearing segment of the meeting, particularly about the implications of new housing developments on water management and traffic. Many expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of proposed engineering solutions to manage stormwater runoff and flooding, citing past experiences with inadequate drainage systems. One resident, Connie Smallready, emphasized the need for careful planning to avoid exacerbating existing water issues, urging the council to slow down development until the infrastructure can adequately support it.

Traffic was another major concern, with residents advocating for traffic studies to be conducted during school sessions to accurately assess the impact of new developments. Sheila Hain raised questions about the city's ability to maintain new detention ponds and the associated costs, suggesting that taxpayers might bear the financial burden of ongoing maintenance.

The meeting underscored a critical moment for McGregor as it navigates growth while addressing infrastructure challenges. The council's next steps will involve seeking grants and financing options from the Texas Water Development Board to address the wastewater issues, while also considering the community's feedback on development plans. As McGregor continues to grow, the balance between development and infrastructure readiness remains a pivotal concern for both city officials and residents alike.