(Richmond, Texas)- The Richmond City Commission received an update for the Utility Master Plan from Civitas Engineering that projected future growth for 5 and 10 yrs for the City and ETJ. The emphasis of the plan is to develop Capital Improvement Projects and a financial plan to meet those needs.

A significant consideration in the Plan is the Fort Bend Subsidence District (FBSD) mandate requiring the City to increase the (non-groundwater) alternative water capabilities to 60% conversion by 2030, which affects expansion of the Surface Water Treatment Plant (SWTP). The update showed the City has accumulated substantial alternative water credits that enables postponement of the SWTP expansion. Civitas’ near term recommendations were to re-evaluate SWTP expansion timeline during next 5 year cycle and begin pursuing additional surface water rights.

The Phased Capital Improvement update reflected a total of 56 projects across the Water, Reclaimed Water and Wastewater systems, with more than 60% of CIP projects driven by growth. Commissioner Gaul added “We need look at our utility rates; the current residents shouldn’t subsidize any increased utility rates preparing for expansion”. Civitas’ presentation showed that majority of the CIP costs should be borne by developers.