In a recent government meeting, the Leon Valley City Council discussed several key ordinances aimed at streamlining processes and enhancing water conservation efforts amid ongoing drought conditions.

The council reviewed an ordinance to amend the fee schedule for sewer impact fees, allowing developers to pay the San Antonio Water System (SAWS) directly. This change is expected to alleviate accounting burdens for the city as housing developments increase. Currently, the city collects these fees and reconciles them annually, but direct payments will simplify the process significantly.

Additionally, the council considered an amendment to subdivision regulations that would permit the deferral of water meter and sidewalk installations until the building phase of a project. This adjustment aims to prevent damage to infrastructure during construction, as these installations often interfere with heavy machinery.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on updating the city’s drought management code, which has not been revised since the 1990s. The proposed changes include the introduction of new watering hours to align with SAWS regulations and the establishment of surcharges for excessive water usage during drought stages. The amendments would create a clearer framework for managing water resources and encourage conservation among residents.

The council emphasized the importance of these updates, particularly in light of recent drought conditions affecting the region. The proposed surcharges would apply during critical drought stages, with specific thresholds for residential and commercial users. The council also discussed the enforcement of these measures, noting that violations would be documented through observations and meter readings.

As these ordinances are still in the first reading stage, the council plans to revisit them for further discussion and potential approval in the upcoming meetings. The changes reflect a proactive approach to managing water resources and adapting to the challenges posed by ongoing drought conditions.