Groundwater district approves purchase and renovation of two Pecos buildings for district offices and education space

The Reeves County Groundwater Conservation District on Dec. 18 voted to buy and renovate two downtown Pecos buildings at 501 and 503 South Cypress to house district operations, an education center and a lab.

Board members considered whether to pursue new construction or renovate the available building. Realtor Joey Varela said the earliest possible closing date reported by the listing agent is Jan. 20, 2026, but that date could be pushed; the board authorized the general manager to set the actual closing date. The general manager and staff reported that searches over the past three years had not produced a suitable alternative property.

Greg, the district general manager, said the inspections and cost estimates indicate repairable issues and that, based on the numbers reviewed so far, "even if remodel costs equaled the purchase price, the District would still be under $180 per square foot." Director Cecil Lee advised that new construction would likely take a minimum of 2 to 2.5 years; Director David Dominguez noted the location offers ample parking and is away from busy traffic. Amber advised the board that the current Pecos Economic Development Corporation (PEDC) lease expires in December 2027.

On the motion to approve purchase and renovation of Lots 1–4, Block 67 (501 and 503 South Cypress) and to authorize the general manager to set a closing date, the board voted 5-0 (motion by Cecil Lee, seconded by Nancy Martinez). The district authorized staff to move forward with closing logistics and planning for renovations; specific renovation budgets and firm contractor contracts were not finalized in the minutes and will be recorded in subsequent staff reports.