Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fredericksburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in water utilities
Electric and Drainage Utility Rate Increases
A water/wastewater rate study is underway with a mid-year rate adjustment likely, and a small electric rate increase is planned. Council also flagged the governor's push on municipally owned utilities, which could threaten the ~9% of electric revenue that flows to the general fund.
Atmos Energy rate increase settlement
By staying in the Atmos steering committee process, Fredericksburg gas customers get a small monthly decrease (~$1.28) instead of the 43 percent interim rate hike the utility had proposed.
Water and wastewater facility security
The Council met privately to discuss the vulnerability of the city's water and wastewater treatment facilities under the critical infrastructure exception to the open meetings act.
LCRA Wholesale Power Supply Agreement Amendment
An amendment to the city's wholesale power supply contract with LCRA was discussed behind closed doors; no action resulted yet.
Water Supply Purchase/Lease Consideration
The council discussed buying or leasing water supply in closed session — a potential long-term water security move — but took no action.
North Llano Waterline Replacement
A 1936-era cast iron waterline under North Llano will be designed for replacement before TxDOT repaves US 16 in 2028 — a smart bit of timing to avoid tearing up new pavement.
Water Supply and Drought Conditions
The city is 100% groundwater dependent and still in Stage 4 watering restrictions since October 2023, but a rainy spring has aquifer levels rebounding — up about 10-12 feet year over year at both well fields. A $29.4M state grant application and long-term water supply study (reuse, aquifer storage) aim to secure future supply.
JM Pipeline contract renewal
The city is in year five of replacing old, undersized two-inch water and sewer mains in older neighborhoods — better pressure, and new fire hydrants for emergency response.