During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around local water supply management and infrastructure upgrades. Councilman Bill Batten raised critical questions regarding the city's brackish water supply, including its location, the volume of water to be pumped daily, and the costs associated with upgrading the system to accommodate a projected increase in demand.

Batten expressed concerns about the timeline of the project, which began in 2020, questioning why it has taken so long to progress and urging immediate action to avoid escalating costs. He highlighted the need for a strategic plan to connect more residents to the city water supply, particularly as new developments continue to emerge. Batten emphasized the importance of addressing the sustainability of the water table, especially for residents relying on septic systems and wells.

Utilities Director Gabriel Boden responded to Batten's inquiries, promising a detailed presentation on the utilities department's plans at the next council meeting. He acknowledged the need for improved project management and indicated that the city is exploring ways to expedite infrastructure projects. Boden also noted that the water supply for the reverse osmosis plants is sourced from a different aquifer than that of residential customers, which could alleviate some concerns about water table depletion.

The council unanimously approved a motion to continue discussions on these pressing issues, underscoring the importance of effective water management as the city grows. The meeting concluded with a commitment to provide further updates and engage in strategic planning to enhance the water supply system for all residents.