City submits $314,260 TWDB water-supply grant; Elliott Ranch filter solicitation underway

City staff reported the Water Supply and Infrastructure grant application was submitted to the Texas Water Development Board on July 29 requesting $314,260, with GrantWorks assisting the application. Staff noted the city's combined average median household income (AMHI) for the City of Hays and Elliott Ranch is $79,625, which consultants said was a low placement and could make the application a long shot.

Separately, staff said the solicitation for the Elliott Ranch well-filter project began July 28; preliminary review of bids is scheduled for Aug. 14, with a tentative contract award in September and construction expected to begin in October. "If construction can begin in October as scheduled, then it will be completed before the end of the month," a project manager said, adding that once construction begins the work is expected to be quick.

Council acknowledged uncertainty in grant outcomes but expressed appreciation that the application was submitted and that bids are moving forward to contract phase.