In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the pressing issue of water restrictions due to ongoing drought conditions. Council members expressed concerns about fluctuating water levels and the potential need to transition between Stage 3 and Stage 4 water restrictions. One council member emphasized the importance of a consistent approach, suggesting that the city should remain in Stage 4 until further notice, especially given the lack of rain forecasted in the near future. This recommendation was supported by projections indicating that the city could remain in Stage 4 for the remainder of the year, resulting in a total water reduction of 41.5%.
The council unanimously approved a motion allowing city staff to implement either Stage 3 or Stage 4 water conditions based on the status of the Edwards Aquifer, providing flexibility to respond to changing conditions.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the reconsideration of awarding a request for proposal (RFP) for health benefit insurance broker services. Council members highlighted the need for transparency and thorough evaluation of proposals to ensure the best services for city employees. Representatives from the current provider, Brown and Brown, presented their capabilities and discussed potential new services, including a self-funded plan aimed at reducing costs for both the city and its employees.
The council is set to deliberate further on the health insurance proposals, with a focus on ensuring competitive benefits for city employees while managing costs effectively. The meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing both immediate water management challenges and long-term employee health benefits.