Q&A: Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District candidates speak on groundwater, subsidence

Why are you running for a seat on the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors?

I’m just a guy who happens to know a fair amount about groundwater and lives in Precinct 3. I’m not wrapped up in any of the local political scuffles we Montgomery Countians are so good at stirring up. I’m on no one’s side—other than those that I will represent. Even then, we won’t all agree on everything. But I’m also someone that knows how to listen and communicate and bring people to the table.

What are the biggest challenges facing groundwater and water users in LSGCD’s service area, and how would you address those if elected?

Trust, surprisingly, seems to be one of the biggest challenges. No one likes high water bills, but I’ve heard too many leaders throughout the area—whether intentionally or out of ignorance—making outrageous claims suggestive of some kind of Illuminati-esque water cabal at work in our municipalities (if only things were that exciting). If elected, you won’t find me on that bandwagon. I’ll shoot straight, even if you don’t like what I have to share.

How would you represent your specific voting constituents’ interests as an elected board member?

We, throughout Montgomery County, have to work together better. I don’t care if that sounds hokey (or naïve)—we just have to do it. There are multiple, water-related lawsuits that’ve been going on for years now and the cost of this litigation has itself further driven up the cost of water. Instead of all that time and money going to lawyers, imagine what we could’ve accomplished as a unified front. I’ll always argue for unity.

What direction, if any, would you like to see the LSGCD take with regards to matters of subsidence?

Subsidence is a serious concern—which requires an equally serious focus from LSGCD leadership. I want more measuring equipment installed, especially for the Rayford area. While The Woodlands has one near Bear Branch Park, I think one near the Village of Grogan’s Mill would be a solid resource too. Until we can more precisely state how much groundwater we can use without causing subsidence, I think LSGCD policy should set a conservative groundwater speed limit.

What actions would you take to educate the public about LSGCD’s mission and to ensure transparency about district operations?

I have—and will continue to be (win or lose)—an advocate for the responsible use of our natural resources. If elected, I would gladly substantiate this position with any Precinct 3 groups that’d have me, as well as any other groups outside my constituency. I would also use such engagements to listen and learn from others. As for transparency, my actions will always support open government and oppose any bureaucratic maneuvering that attempts otherwise.

Why are you running for a seat on the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors?

I can use my 30 years of experience in hydrogeology to serve Montgomery County. I have been both a small business owner and an executive at a large national firm. I bring both the technical expertise and financial experience to the Board.

What are the biggest challenges facing groundwater and water users in LSGCD’s service area, and how would you address those if elected?

The biggest challenge is collecting hydrogeology data in Montgomery County, which is very expensive to obtain. Also, there are competing interests within Montgomery County and all parties need to collaborate and make decisions based on data that comply with chapter 36 of the Texas Water Code

How would you represent your specific voting constituents’ interests as an elected board member?

I will listen, be transparent and accountable. I will regularly meet with constituents at public forums or meetings to discuss and explain current and future challenges related to groundwater in Montgomery County. This is an evolving issue and communication is key.

What direction, if any, would you like to see the LSGCD take with regards to matters of subsidence?

We need better measurement methods to determine the actual properties of the Jasper aquifer in Montgomery County and base decisions on that data. The measuring methods are extremely expensive, and we will need all stakeholders to be willing to participate in the acquisition of the data.

What actions would you take to educate the public about LSGCD’s mission and to ensure transparency about district operations?

I would meet with all interested parties to educate them about the various approaches that LSGCD has suggested as possible actions and scenarios. Additionally, as I mentioned above, communication is key and all stakeholders need to communicate collaboratively.

Why are you running for a seat on the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors?

Montgomery County has a large projected population growth in its future. I want to see that there are sufficient water resources to meet those needs. Groundwater cannot fulfill it alone so we need a groundwater -surface water strategy. I want to help develop the groundwater management plan that will support the recently adopted Defined Future Conditions permitted by the Texas Water development Board.

What are the biggest challenges facing groundwater and water users in LSGCD’s service area, and how would you address those if elected?

The aquifers under Montgomery County recharge very slowly. When a large well is permitted it draws down the water table in that well’s cone of influence. Because of the makeup of the soils the void created collapses and the earth’s surface shrinks. This subsidence caused drainage problems and increases the risk of flooding. The permitting large wells has to be better managed by LSGCD to avoid damage to homeowners’ property rights.

How would you represent your specific voting constituents’ interests as an elected board member?

Lone Star must represent the private property rights of all Montgomery County residents and protect the residents’ homes from risk of damage due to a lowering of the water table under their homes. I want their voices heard in managing the aquifer and not just the large groundwater users wanting to pump water for profit. Vote for John Yoars to protect your home from unnecessary subsidence.

Why are you running for a seat on the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors?

I was elected to LSGCD [board of directors] in 2018 and have served on three committees and want to continue to finish the projects in progress in the best interest for the citizens of Montgomery County.

What are the biggest challenges facing groundwater and water users in LSGCD’s service area, and how would you address those if elected?

It is LSGCD's responsibility to regulate the groundwater resources and serve the public interest of developing, promoting and implementing water conservation, augmentation and management strategies to both conserve and utilize groundwater resources for the benefit of citizens, economy and environment of Montgomery County.

How would you represent your specific voting constituents’ interests as an elected board member?

I will stand for: practical water conservation, transparency, accountability and fiscal responsibility.

What direction, if any, would you like to see the LSGCD take with regards to matters of subsidence?

LSGCD started in 2020 a three phase subsidence study. We have just completed phase 2 and will continue with phase 3 so we can have all the science needed to make the best decisions for the citizens of Montgomery County on subsidence.