Grant County commissioners approve StreamDynamics water-harvesting project after neighbor concerns

The Grant County Board of Commissioners approved a StreamDynamics water-harvesting project at its July 9 meeting after commissioners pressed for assurances the work would not damage a neighboring property or the adjacent roadway.

Chair (S1) said the motion to proceed was made by Commissioner Steven and seconded by Commissioner Medina; the board approved the item by voice vote. County staff (S4) told commissioners the project proponent had met with staff and indicated the adjacent property owner, Mr. Baptiste, had agreed in principle but that staff could confirm details and return if necessary.

Commissioner (S2) and Commissioner (S6) raised technical concerns about where the proposed basin and berms would channel water and whether flow could erode the concrete driveway or asphalt. Commissioner (S6) said the concept would help take water off the paved road and limit asphalt deterioration, but added that the town of Silver City likely needs to reshape aprons and the road to make the system function as intended.

Commissioner (S7), who moved approval, said StreamDynamics has carried out similar projects across town and that the company committed to fixing the work if it did not function as intended. County staff (S4) proposed contacting Mr. Baptiste to secure explicit agreement and suggested the board could approve the project conditionally if commissioners preferred.

The board voted to approve the project; commissioners emphasized the need to confirm neighbor consent and to include erosion-control measures in the work plan. The project proponent told commissioners the county would not incur a direct cost for the installation.

Next steps: staff will confirm the adjacent property owner’s agreement and coordinate details including erosion-control measures and any coordination with the town of Silver City before or during implementation.