Title
Approving a Resolution supporting the City of Pflugerville's participation in the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) Firm Water Users Coalition Group.
Summary
The group of LCRA firm water customers have been formally meeting since the fall of 2012 to monitor the water management plan and associated emergency orders that govern the allocation of water from the Highland Lakes. There are approximately 60 firm water users including cities and municipal utility districts. Due to the LCRA decision in December of 2012 to release more water for downstream agriculture than the firm water users thought prudent, the firm water group has decided to form a coalition to develop strategy as a cohesive unit in the future. The coalition is proposing to hire legal counsel to assist it. City of Pflugerville staff have been active in the informal group and will be participating in the steering committee for the coalition should the Council support this resolution.
Deadline for City Council Action
The level of water release is pending at this time. Recent articles in the press have indicated that LCRA is reconsidering its decision to release the large amount of water to downstream users, to the possible detriment of firm water customers. In the near future, discussions will also begin regarding the new water management plan for LCRA. The coalition would like to begin working as a group as soon as possible, so staff recommends approving the resolution at the January 8, 2013 City Council meeting.
Fiscal Impact
Hiring legal counsel will require financial support from the coalition. The coalition is allocating the share of expenses based upon the LCRA contracted amount of each firm water customer. All entities contracted for 2500 acre feet per year or more are being asked for an initial contribution of $10,000. The City of Pflugerville contracts for 12,000 acre feet of water per year from LCRA. The $10,000 expense will be charged to the Utility Fund Administration account.
Staff Recommendation
Approve the resolution supporting the City of Pflugerville's participation in the coalition of LCRA firm water users.
Drafter
Lauri Gillam
Assistant City Manager