A coalition representing the interests of multiple Central Texas communities has signed a memorandum of understanding to purchase the West Travis County Regional Water and Wastewater System from the Lower Colorado River Authority.

The Coalition of Central Texas Utilities Development Corporation, which represents the interests of of Bee Cave, Leander, Lakeway Municipal Utility District and others, signed the MOU on Dec. 16 to purchase the two water and wastewater systems from the LCRA. The LCRA and the coalition were set to continue negotiations for a final sale agreement by Jan. 17.

"The board's decision represents an opportunity for local communities to exercise their wishes," LCRA General Manager Becky Motal said in a statement in November.

The LCRA announced the sale of its 32 water and wastewater systems in 2010, saying the utilities cannot support themselves financially, leading to significant annual shortfalls.

The LCRA later decided not to sell five systems, including the system that covers West Lake Hills. However, West Lake Hills is still looking to purchase the system from LCRA, West Lake Hills Mayor Dave Claunch said.