Navasota OK to move ahead with new water wells
At the May 8 Special Meeting Workshop of the Navasota City Council, the green light was given to proceed with drilling one and possibly two new water wells on the City’s developing east side. A new water well is part of the $2 million Capital Improvement Project approved during this fiscal year to meet the City’s long-term needs. See related article page 1.
Professional Geologist Elizabeth Ferry with R.W. Harden & Associates presented the results of their Groundwater Availability Study. Representatives from Bleyl Engineering who will design the water well site were also on hand for the 20-minute presentation.
According to Ferry, RWH&A compiled and reviewed available information pertaining to the geologic structure, lithologic composition and the water quality and potential production of the aquifers beneath the study area – the Brazos River Alluvium, Jasper and Catahoula aquifers. The report also included a summary of the anticipated Bluebonnet Groundwater Conservation District permitting requirements for well drilling and operating of new nonexempt public supply wells.
The bottom line for City Manager Jason Weeks was if the location off SH 90 is “ideal.” An unidentified R.W. Harden representative replied, “The hope is you can get two wells on that site.”
Citywide survey
City council members received an online presentation from Ron Gailey with On-Pointe Insights, LLC about their survey product which could assist the City develop its 2-3 year Strategic Plan. The purpose of a citywide survey is to give citizens a voice and help city staff and council know where to prioritize funds.
Some Texas cities which have already used OnPointe Insights are Boerne, Coppell, Keller, Lago Vista, Richland Hills, Saginaw and West University Place.
City Manager Jason Weeks said the survey has an “easy flow for our residents.” The survey is not lengthy and filters make it user-friendly for city staff and council to analyze the data based on a number of demographics such as gender, age or area of residence in the city. Survey results can be ready in about 7-8 weeks.
Council members are tasked with deciding whether or not to move forward with OnPointe and to choose between a one-time survey for $19,960, or a 2-year commitment at $17,460 per year or a 3-three-year commitment at $14,960 per year.