TITLE
Consider a memorandum/resolution of support for Bell County Water Control and Improvement District #1 in its efforts to expand the district boundary to include all of its wholesale customers.
SUMMARY
DATE: January 22, 2019
TO: Ronald L. Olson, City Manager
FROM: David A. Olson, Executive Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Resolution of support for the expansion of the boundaries of Bell County Water Control and Improvement District #1 to include all of its wholesale customers
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
The Bell County Water Control and Improvement District #1 (WCID #1) Board currently has five elected members, comprised exclusively of City of Killeen residents/property owners. Additionally, until 1985, the WCID #1 boundary was limited to the 1952 Killeen city limits. In 1985, the boundary was extended to the then city limits of Killeen. However, outside the City of Killeen, WCID #1 water customers in Fort Hood, Copperas Cove, Harker Heights, Nolanville (WCID #3), Belton and 439 Water Supply Corporation, have no representation on the Board that provides them with this vital resource.
The WCID #1 Board recommended at its December 18, 2018 meeting that all wholesale water customers be granted a “seat at the table,” including Killeen with three representatives, and all other entities with one representative. Furthermore the WCID #1 Board recommended that future board members be selected by appointment of a board member by the respective governing bodies of each wholesale water customer. WCID #1 has requested the City to support its proposal to the Texas legislature to expand its boundaries and allow for appointed board members.
On January 22, 2019, the majority of the City Council of the City of Killeen supported the expansion of the WCID #1 boundary, but did not support the appointment of board members rather than election of board members.
On January 23, 2019, the WCID #1 Board voted to remove the appointment of board members from its proposal to the state legislature. The WCID #1 proposal will now only include the expansion of its boundary to include all of its wholesale water customers, and an expansion from 5 board members to 7 board members and one ex officio member.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
1. Take no action and neither support nor oppose the actions of the WCID #1 Board.
2. Adopt a resolution opposing the recommendation of the WCID #1 Board.
3. Adopt a resolution of support for both the expansion of the boundary and the appointment of board members.
4. Adopt a resolution supporting the expansion of the boundary, and not supporting the appointment of board members.
Which alternative is recommended? Why?
Alternative #4 is recommended. On January 22, 2019, the city council discussed the alternatives, and directed staff by a motion of direction to prepare a resolution of support for the expansion of the boundary of WCID #1, and not supporting the appointment of board members. Since then, WCID #1 has voted to remove the appointment of members from its proposal. Therefore, Alternative #4 represents Council's directive regarding boundary expansion, and election of board members, and is pertinent to WCID's proposal to the state legislature.
CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
This action conforms to City policy.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
There is no fiscal impact associated with this item.
Is this a one-time or recurring expenditure?
N/A
Is this expenditure budgeted?
N/A
If not, where will the money come from?
N/A
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this expenditure?
N/A
RECOMMENDATION:
City staff recommends that the City Council adopt a resolution supporting the expansion of the boundary of Bell County Water Control & Improvement District #1, and not supporting the appointment of board members.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
Public Works
City Attorney
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
N/A