Court set to address air quality and water issues

Air quality and water quality issues are on the agenda for the Hays County Commissioners Court this morning.

The commissioners are set to discuss an additional contribution to the Capital Area Council of Governments (CAPCOG) for the Fiscal Year 2019 Air Quality Program. Hays County is a member of the Clean Air Coalition (CAC) and contributed $11,681 in base funding for its 2017-2018 membership period. Because of a lack of state funding, CAPCOG is asking for an additional $6,105 for fiscal year 2019. Each CAC jurisdiction, which includes five counties and 17 cities, is being asked for supplemental funding that will allow CAPCOG to analyze 2018 air monitoring data and new emissions data, provide technical assistance to CAC members in reducing emissions and conduct other research. The additional funds also will allow CAPCOG to continue maintaining the www.AirCentralTexas.org website and social media accounts. The county budgeted funds for its CAC membership dues.

In other business, as part of its consent agenda, the court is slated to vote on membership in the Protect Our Blanco organization. Membership will allow the county to participate in a contested case legally challenging the proposed discharge into the Blanco River. The city of Blanco is looking to discharge up to 1.6 million of treated wastewater into the river. 

In other business, the commissioners are set to discuss an amendment to the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between Hays County and the city of Woodcreek to add a part-time deputy, provided by the Precinct 3 constable’s office, for the city. No county funds are required.

The Hays County Commissioners Court will meet at 9 a.m. on the third floor of the Hays County Courthouse. Meetings are also streamed live.