Sugar Land City Council members approved plans to rehabilitate the city’s waterline and to develop new residential homes during its regular meeting Tuesday. Council members also discussed a plan for managing the city’s water supply and reviewed the appointment process for advisory boards and commissions.

Council member Amy Mitchell was absent.

City waterline to be rehabbed

The council unanimously voted to approve a $1.6 million contract with Trans-Tex Construction to rehabilitate Sugar Land’s water distribution system. Work will include replacing approximately 16,500 linear feet of old, leaking water lines —ranging from 6 inches to 1 foot in diameter — and improving water quality service in the Sugar Creek area, according to meeting documents.

The rehabilitation program is part of the city’s capital improvement program for 2017-2021. Construction is scheduled to be completed within 290 calendar days, according to meeting documents.

Zoning change to allow new homes

After a public hearing, the council unanimously approved the rezoning of 15.2 acres of land near Imperial Boulevard and Silent Manor Drive, allowing Johnson Development to sell the land to homebuilders for the construction of single-family homes.

Integrated water resource plan progresses

Later this month, consultants hired to study the city’s water supply system will submit their recommendations for changes and upgrades to the city’s system and water policies, Sugar Land water resources manager Katie Clayton told council members.

She said the analysis will serve as a guideline when planning future capital improvement projects, policies, and management strategies. The city is looking for ways to manage its water supply and usage effectively.

Appointment process reviewed

Council members discussed forming subcommittees to interview candidates for open positions on various city committees and boards. The council also considered expanding the applicant pool by inviting more interested citizens to apply.

Several seats have opened up on the city’s advisory boards and committees, including the parks, art, recreation, culture, and streetscapes board; the Legacy Foundation, the planning and zoning commission, the zoning board of adjustment, and the building standards commission.