Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Garden Ridge, TX public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in water utilities with high priority
Wastewater ordinance for Highway 2252 commercial corridor
The rules governing who must connect to the city's pressurized sewer system are being drafted. Septic users stay grandfathered unless they expand or build new within 300 feet of a line. Commissioners flagged open questions on billing, grease traps, grinder pumps and second dwellings on large lots.
Sewer Capacity Agreement with Schertz
The city and Schertz have agreed in principle on a wastewater interlocal agreement that would let Garden Ridge connect to Schertz's pipeline coming up Doerr Lane — it goes to Schertz council next month and Garden Ridge council in August.
2025-2045 Water System Capital Improvement Plan
City Council approved the 2025-2045 Water CIP and let the city manager pursue state grant funding for water projects. The SAWS interconnect line still has right-of-way easement issues.
SAWs Interconnect Grant Application
The SAWS easement at the high school was granted in April, and the city is racing to land a Texas Water Development Board grant (up to $640,000) by July 30 to help fund the water line expansion.
Outer Loop Utility Condemnation Litigation
The city has hired hydrologists and legal counsel for a condemnation hearing later this month involving a proposed gas pipeline through the Schoenthal property; the matter was also discussed in closed session.
Republic Services trash and recycling rate increase
Trash and recycling rates rise 4.86% to $39.43/month on September 1. Council says the 10-year contract locks them in but may revisit terms with Republic, possibly seeking occasional bulk/leaf pickup.
Aquifer status and winter freeze readiness
The Edwards aquifer is in stage 4 and the city is watering at stage 2; levels are approaching the stage 5 trigger. Unaccounted water loss crept up to 4.3% in February.