Water Resources Commission Minutes - 05/31/2024 Water Resources Committee Meeting
05/31/24
1) Meeting Called to Order: 4:00 PM
2) Approval of Previous Minutes: March 20, 2024
3) Current Drought Conditions: Mark Southard gave an update on the current status of lake
levels, the Drought Monitor year-over-year (2023 compared to 2024), a prediction of
lake levels with best-case, average, and worst-case scenarios, updates on the US
Seasonal Drought Outlook over the next 3 months, the temperature and precipitation
outlook through September 2024.
4) Discussion for restrictions: Steve Smith suggested watering 2 days per week is enough
for lawns. Richard Milhollon asked how much water is saved with 2 days per week
watering, and Russell Schreiber noted that in some cases citizens actually water more on
those two days than they would with no day restrictions. Glenn Barham mentioned that
as mayor, he would recommend removing the restrictions, but as a member of the
committee he was more willing to keep them and reassess in the fall. Shane FitzHenry
noted that the plan says Stage 1 is at 65%, so the plan requirements should be
considered. Glenn Barham asked the committee if they were comfortable at 80%, and
Steve Smith recommended 78%. The committee agreed on 78%to recommend
removing Stage 1 restrictions.
5) Old Business:
a. Glenn Barham asked about he status of Lake Ringgold, and Russell Schreiber
noted that the City had met it's obligations according to the TCEQ. The TCEQ
signed the permit on 5/28/24, and the next step is to pursue the 404 permit.
6) New Business: Mark Southard noted that Tyson Traw now works for the City of Wichita
Falls as the Deputy Director of Public Works, so his seat on the committee is currently
open. Mark also introduced Hunter Adams as the Water Purification Superintendent.
7) New Meeting Date: Will be set late summer or early fall.
8) Meeting Adjourned: 4:38 PM