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Council authorizes submission of TWDB grant application for elevated storage tank
Summary
Fair Oaks Ranch authorized staff to apply to the Texas Water Development Board for grant funding to support its elevated storage tank project; staff noted the city's high median income may reduce scoring but recommended applying to pursue possible funding up to $10 million.
The Fair Oaks Ranch City Council voted on July 2 to approve a resolution authorizing staff to submit an application to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) water supply and infrastructure grant program for the city’s elevated storage tank project.
Grant Watanabe and Summer Fleming, the city’s director of finance, explained the grant program. Fleming said the program was funded by a legislative appropriation and that grant awards prioritize economically disadvantaged communities; because Fair Oaks Ranch’s average median household income is relatively high, staff acknowledged the city may not score strongly on that factor but argued the potential benefit justified submitting an application. “If we don’t submit, it’s guaranteed we won’t get it,” Fleming said; “the option is to ask for it and pursue the funding.”
Staff noted that projects of this size can seek up to $10 million and that applications are due at the end of July, with award notifications expected in the fall and funding available between winter and May 1; projects must be fully expensed by Aug. 31, 2031. Council approved the resolution by voice vote and designated an authorized representative to finalize the application.
Why it matters: The elevated storage tank is part of the utility capital improvement plan and is intended to support system reliability and future growth. If awarded, the grant could reduce future debt issuance for the project; staff said any award would be returned to council with the terms and a draft agreement for consideration.
What’s next: Staff will file the TWDB application before the end of July, evaluate any award impacts on the city’s utility financing plan and return to council with award terms if funding is offered.
