Mayor addresses Richmond water quality, new construction at Feb. 20 City Commission meeting

In response to recent news reports regarding water safety, Mayor Evelyn Moore stated at the Feb. 20 City Commission meeting that the city of Richmond meets or exceeds water quality standards set by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, or TCEQ. The Consumer Confidence Report annually publishes this information.

Moore’s office went on to reassure citizens the city takes the issue of water safety seriously and is confident in the quality of its drinking water.

“We test our water daily here,” Moore said. “Our water is within limits imposed by [the] Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.”

Also at the meeting, Richmond city residents spoke against Lucky Rudy’s replat of lots 17 and 18, Block 10, Winston Terrace, Section 2 located on the west side of Thompson Road at the corner of Inwood Drive and Thompson Road. Residents expressed concerns including increased traffic at a busy intersection, noise and environmental pollution.

Commissioners also reviewed the feasibility for a new City Hall with PGAL consulting firm. The city partnered with PGAL to help with a needs assessment for a new City Hall facility.

The review took into account facility needs, staff positions and city growth over the next 10-12 years. In a presentation to commissioners, a PGAL representative anticipated a new City Hall may include a two-story, 30,000-square-foot building with 170 parking spaces.

“Efficiency is one of the things we need to get to that would save money in the long run,” Commissioner Barry Beard said at the meeting. “There is a good economic reason for us to do something like this.”

The commission tabled discussion on the replat and the PGAL presentation for an executive session, which was held after the commission’s meeting.