Hays County Commissioners Court held a public hearing and discussion on new development regulations on Oct. 27. Residents raised concerns about water sustainability, developer requirements and the approval process for future subdivisions.
Commissioner Morgan Hammer said water sustainability, conservation and preservation of natural resources have been priorities in writing the rules. Michael Berlad, the county's director of development services, said in his opinion the new rules will make it "more difficult" for developers. Hammer asked whether the Hays Commons subdivision, which the court previously denied, would still need a variance and court approval. Berlad said both would still be required.
Berlad said counties can set standards for groundwater withdrawal under Chapter 35 of the Texas Water Code. He said the county is working on those standards and is in talks with local groundwater districts about interlocal agreements. He said the county hopes to finish by the end of the year, though it could take until January or February because of board elections. Berlad also confirmed that several departments are working on the regulations, and that the final draft will combine those versions.