Smithville forum on natural resources scheduled for Sept. 25

The city of Smithville will host a comprehensive plan forum regarding natural resources Sept. 25.

The details

The event—which will focus on issues connected to water quality and management, energy resources, air quality, wildlife, scenic vistas and open spaces—will be held from noon-1:30 p.m. at Smithville City Hall, 317 Main St. in Smithville.

“Smithville's comprehensive plan is an ongoing blueprint for actions and projects that the community recognizes will improve the quality of life for those who live here and will encourage the kind of growth that the community will support,” city officials said in a statement posted to its website.

There will be several panelists, including:

• Ramon Zarate, Capital Area Council of Governments
• Robert Bradley, Texas Water Development Board
• Kevin M. Anderson, Austin Water Center for Environmental Research
• Steve Minick, Property Assessed Clean Energy program

Ryan Savage, a retired environmental engineer who serves as the president of the Noon Lions Club, will serve as a community facilitator.

Also of note

The agenda for the comprehensive plan forum is as follows:

• Noon-12:10 p.m.: Welcome and introductions
• 12:10-12:30 p.m.: Panel discussion
• 12:30-1 p.m.: Table discussions
• 1:00-1:10 p.m.: Public discussions
• 1:10-1:20 p.m.: Attendees mark their priorities
• 1:20-1:30 p.m.: Experts address steps forward with the top priorities identified during discussions