Residents, descendants and conservation groups urge Elgin to halt wastewater plant near historic Litig community

Dozens of residents and local preservation groups told the Elgin City Council on Dec. 2 that a proposed wastewater treatment plant and industrial annexation at or near 18706 Lydig Road would threaten the historic freedmen community and surrounding farmland.

Gina Gonzales, who presented artifacts she said came from the parcel, said an archaeological survey had not been submitted and quoted the Texas Historic Commission as saying a survey is required “due to high probability for historic sites.” She asked the city to require proper state review and broader notification for people who have ties to the land.

Christopher Scott, introduced himself as a descendant and said the plan amounted to “pollution, gentrification, and profit,” alleging the plant would take sewage from miles away, process it and “dump 6,000,000 gallons into our local creek and tributaries” near the community. He and other speakers warned of public‑health impacts and harm to wildlife and farmland.

Several descendants and community stewards urged the…