Manvel council authorizes application for state grant to buy generators for two water plants

Manvel City Council on Monday authorized the city manager to submit a grant application to the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to fund generators at two city water plants.

Staff told the council the two generators — one at the School Road water plant and one at the Maverick water plant behind the high school — are estimated to cost roughly $200,000 each. Under the TDEM program staff cited, the grant would cover about 75% of the purchase price. That would leave the city responsible for the remaining share, and staff said the city would need to front costs and seek reimbursement as invoices are submitted.

Why it matters: Generators at water plants maintain treatment and distribution during extended power outages and are a common resilience measure for municipal utilities. Staff said the Maverick plant currently lacks a generator and the School Road unit is aging.

Discussion details: Council discussed logistical questions about reimbursement timing and whether the city must purchase up front. Staff said payment timing typically takes one to a few months after submission of invoices and documentation and recommended planning for the city to front the cost. Council thanked state representatives who aided access to the program and approved applying for the grant.

Next steps: Staff will prepare the application, monitor the two‑week submission window and return to council for any required budget appropriations or contract approvals if the grant is awarded.

Ending: Council approved the application by unanimous vote; staff will pursue the TDEM grant and report back on schedule and budgeting needs.