Decatur approves creation of West Fork Public Utility Agency; agency cannot bind members to debt without member approval

The City Council approved an ordinance creating the West Fork Public Utility Agency (PUA) at the Nov. 3 workshop and authorized the mayor and/or city manager to execute necessary formation documents.

Staff explained the ordinance language prohibits the PUA board from creating debt or financial obligations on behalf of member entities unless and until a sponsoring public entity separately approves such obligations. The ordinance also sets director qualifications (directors may not be elected officials; directors must reside in the territory or CCN of their appointing public entity and be registered voters; a public entity may appoint an employee to serve without regard to residency). The PUA is expected to organize, adopt bylaws and hold its initial board meeting in January, when it will establish board seats and rules.

Staff said joining the PUA gives Decatur a seat at the table for regional water and wastewater planning while requiring future, separate votes by the council before the city would become financially obligated to PUA debt or projects. The EDC and Wise County Water Supply District provided letters of support in the packet.

Ending

Council approved the ordinance forming the PUA and authorized administrative execution of formation documents. Future appropriation or annual participation payments will return to council for separate approval.