City Council Reviews $24M Wastewater Treatment Project and Budget Adjustments

Lago Vista City Council is gearing up for significant infrastructure improvements, particularly in wastewater and water treatment, as discussions around a $25 million bond package heat up. During the recent council meeting, officials confirmed that design work for the wastewater treatment plant is already underway, with expectations to finalize plans in the coming weeks.

Council members highlighted the importance of utilizing the bond funds effectively, with a substantial portion earmarked for wastewater treatment construction. "We have funds to start that," one council member noted, emphasizing the urgency of moving forward with the project. The council is also exploring additional funding sources, including grants from the Texas Water Development Board, to bolster their financial resources.

In addition to wastewater concerns, the council is actively reviewing the city’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Discussions included potential tax rate adjustments, with proposals to slightly lower the current rate to alleviate financial pressure on residents. "It would reduce our overall revenue in ad valorem tax by about $250,000," one council member stated, but expressed confidence that budget cuts could compensate for the loss.

The meeting also touched on the need for better financial oversight, particularly regarding the golf course and parks budgets. Council members expressed concerns over discrepancies in spending and revenue projections, urging a thorough review of departmental budgets to ensure fiscal responsibility.

As Lago Vista prepares for these critical projects, the council is committed to transparency and community engagement, with plans for future workshops to discuss budget details and gather public input. The anticipated outcomes of these discussions could shape the city’s infrastructure landscape for years to come.