NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Wednesday, Sept 8, 2010, 7:30 PM, at 126 Sunrise Canyon Rd.; Skyline Ranch Estates; Wimberley, TX. 78676.

AGENDA

1. Quorum Count, Call to Order (I-Pei)
   1. President’s announcements
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of July 14, 2010 WSC meeting
   2. Documentation requirements
3. Treasurer’s Report (James)
   1. Financial status, August 31, 2010
   2. Account ledger update/2009 tax return documentation update
   3. Money market transfer
4. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
   1. Auto-dialer project
   2. Generator maintenance contract
5. New and Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. Analytical results for water sampling
   2. Drought stage notices
6. Regulatory, Compliance, and Business Issues
   1. TCEQ water conference summary (Stephen)

SRE-WSC comment on Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) Region L Water Plan:

http://skylineranch.org/content/filemgr/files/wsc_comment_regl_ipp_2010.pdf [pdf, 86 KB]

Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) Region L Water Plan: history

In June 1997, the Governor of Texas signed into law Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), which included comprehensive water legislation enacted by the 75th Texas Legislature. SB 1 created a regional water planning process and designated the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) as the lead agency for coordinating the regional water planning process. The overriding purpose of the regional water planning process is to ensure that the water needs of all Texans are met as Texas enters the 21st century and experiences the population growth projected for the 21st century.

The overall goal of SB 1 was to “develop regional and state water plans that will provide for the orderly development, management, and conservation of water resources, and preparation for and response to drought conditions in order that sufficient water will be available at a reasonable cost to ensure public health, safety, and welfare further economic development, and protect the agricultural and natural resources of the planning area.” SB 1 designated 11 interest groups to serve as members of Regional Water Planning Groups (RWPG) to prepare regional water plans for their respective areas. These plans are intended to map out how to conserve water supplies, meet future water supply needs and respond to future droughts in the planning areas.

In 1998, the Texas Water Development Board adopted rules for state and regional water planning and grant assistance, designating 16 regional water planning areas to implement state and regional water planning aspects of SB 1. The original state water plan was created and adopted in 2002 through the regional water planning process, and SB 1 called for the plan to be updated every 5 years. The original water plan was replaced in 2007 by successive plan documents, drafted again through the regional water planning process. The current Texas Water Plan is the one that was adopted in 2007.

Each Regional Water Planning Group remains responsible for preparing and adopting an updated regional water plan for their area. Texas Regional Water Planning Groups are working on the next update of the comprehensive Texas Water Plan, which is in the drafting stages in 2010 – the efforts of which are intended to complete the next comprehensive water plan in time for adoption in 2011, to replace the 2007 Texas Water Plan.

The South Central Texas Regional Water Planning Area (Region L) is one of the 16 regional water planning areas designated by TWDB, the lead state agency in the water planning process. Region L contains the following counties: Atascosa, Bexar, Caldwell, Calhoun, Comal, Dewitt, Dimmit, Frio, Goliad, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Karnes, Kendall, LaSalle, Medina, Refugio, Uvalde, Victoria, Wilson, Zavala, and the southern part of Hays County that lies within the Guadalupe-Blanco River watershed. (The northern part of Hays County lying within the Colorado River watershed is included in Region K, the Lower Colorado Regional Water Planning Group).

In March 2010, Region L issued its 2010 Initially Prepared Plan (IPP) and requested the submission of responsive public comments. The June 13, 2010 letter [pdf, 86 KB] was submitted to Region L on behalf of the Skyline Ranch Estates Water Supply Corporation, in response to Region L’s request for comments on the Region L March 2010 IPP.

SRE-WSC comment on Region L IPP: executive summary

Following are the points we tried to make in our comment:

1. Although the draft plan purports to comprehensively address future water use by all water users in Region L, there is no consideration given to water used by rural water users such as the residents of Skyline Ranch Estates. Instead, the only water users in the Wimberley Valley whose future water needs are addressed are the customers of the Wimberley Water Supply Corporation and Woodcreek Utilities, Inc. (Aqua Texas), the water utilities which serve fewer than half the residents of the Wimberley Valley.
2. Although the plan proposes a water project to increase the water supplies of the Wimberley Water Supply Corporation and Woodcreek Utilities, Inc. (Aqua Texas), on account of inadequacies of the Trinity Aquifer which provides their water, no projects are proposed to supplement other water users who also draw their water from the Trinity Aquifer – such as the customers of the Skyline Ranch Estates Water Supply Corporation. We suggested that additional supplies to meet future water needs of SRE-WSC and other nearby small water systems be included in that project.
3. With no reasoned discussion, the plan dismisses any need for possible cross-basin water transfers into the Blanco-Guadalupe River basin from other watersheds. Our comment points out that the LCRA water pipeline that runs south of Dripping Springs is probably the closest possible alternative water supply for the SRE-WSC – even closer than Canyon Lake and San Marcos, the alternative sources to be used for transferring additional water to the Wimberley Water Supply Corporation and Woodcreek Utilities, Inc. (Aqua Texas) in the proposed Wimberley Water Project – and suggested that LCRA pipeline be considered as an alternative water source that would involve a cross-basin transfer.

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Wednesday, July 14, 2010, 7:30 PM, at 126 Sunrise Canyon Rd.

AGENDA

1. Quorum Count, Call to Order (I-Pei)
   1. President’s announcements
2. 2009 Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) public meeting comment/question period
3. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of June 8, 2010 WSC meeting
   2. Documentation requirements
4. Treasurer’s Report (James)
   1. Financial status, June 30, 2010
   2. Account ledger update/2009 tax return documentation update
5. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
   1. Auto-dialer project
   2. Generator maintenance contract
6. New and Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. Community Resource Group (CRG) remaining funds release
   2. Lead and copper sampling program
   3. Consulting service needs for accounting
   4. Contractor service needs for water system operations and maintenance
   5. Consulting service needs for secondary well feasibility project
7. Regulatory Updates

http://skylineranch.org/content/filemgr/files/wsc_2009_water_quality.pdf [pdf, 174 KB]

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Tuesday, June 8, 2010, 7:30 PM, at 521 Stoney Creek Vista.

AGENDA

1. Quorum Count, Call to Order (I-Pei)
   1. Announcements
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of May 12, 2010 WSC meeting
   2. Documentation requirements
3. Treasurer’s Report
   1. Financial status, May 31, 2010
   2. Tax return update
4. Regulatory Updates
   1. Region L Water Plan comments (Stephen)
   2. PEC election analysis (Stephen)
   3. 2009 Consumer Confidence Report (I-Pei)
5. New and Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. PGMS contract/performance plan
   2. Secondary well feasibility planning project
   3. Hardware, software, and consulting service needs for accounting
6. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
   1. Auto-dialer project
   2. Cross connection control program

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Wednesday, May 12, 2010, 7:30 PM, at Ike’s Beer and Wine Bar, 16920 RR12, Wimberley, TX.

AGENDA

1. Quorum Count/Call to Order (I-Pei)
   1. Announcements
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of April 14, 2010 WSC meeting
   2. Minutes of April 17, 2010 SRE annual meeting
3. Treasurer’s Report
   1. Financial Status, April 30, 2010
   2. Tax Return Status
4. Regulatory Updates
5. New and Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. 2010/2011 Tariff Revision
   2. PGMS Contract/Performance Plan
   3. Lead and Copper Sampling Program
   4. SRE-WSC Map and Database Update
6. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
   1. April Well Outage Incident and Response
   2. Cross Connection Control Program
   3. 2010 Recommended Capital Improvements

Download/view

1. Original PowerPoint presentation (8.59 MB):
http://skylineranch.org/content/filemgr/files/wsc_2010_annual_meeting_pre.ppt

2. Reduced size, pdf format (448 KB):
http://skylineranch.org/content/filemgr/files/wsc_2010_annual_meeting_pre.pdf

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Wednesday, April 14, 2010, 7:30 PM, at 700 Skyline Ridge Lookout.

AGENDA

1. Call To Order/Quorum Count (I-Pei)
   1. Announcements
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of Jan. 27, 2010 SRE-WSC Board Meeting
   2. Regulatory Updates
3. Treasurer’s Report (Rob)
   1. Financial Status, March 31, 2010
   2. Tax Return Status
4. New and Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. HTGCD Well Permit Renewal
   2. 2009/2010 Tariff Revision
   3. Review of Rate Study by Gerald Tempton
   4. SRE Annual Meeting Presentation and Elections
   5. SRE-WSC Map and Database Update
5. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
   1. Cross Connection Control Program
   2. 2010 Recommended Capital Improvements

The main course and drinks will be provided. POA members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share. In the past this event has been a lot of fun and a good time to visit with neighbors. Please plan to attend.

We will be electing at least two new members to the POA Board this year. Board members serve for a term of three years. If you would like to serve, or know someone who would like to serve, please contact any POA Board member as soon as possible. The floor will also be open for nominations at the annual meeting.

Please fill in and sign both proxies that you have received in the mail, even if you think you will be attending the meeting. In the event that you cannot attend, the proxies will enable you to request that the Board cast your vote for you, or you can name a specific person to do that for you.

Return the POA proxy to

Skyline Ranch Estates Property Owners Association
P.O. Box 1894
Wimberley, TX 78676

Return the WSC proxy to

Skyline Ranch Estates Water Supply Corporation
P.O. Box 2287
Wimberley, TX 78676

It is very important that you do this. As per the SRE POA Bylaws, we are required to have a quorum of 2/3 membership (that total is made of members present plus signed proxies) at the meeting in order to conduct business.

Just a reminder: have you subscribed to the Skyline Ranch Estates email list? To subscribe and keep up to date with the news and notices as well as participate in neighborhood issues, go to http://skylineranch.org/?page_id=6 and follow directions, or send an email to info@skylineranch.org and request to be added.

We look forward to seeing you at the annual meeting!

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Wednesday, January 27, 2010, 7:30 PM, at 126 Sunrise Canyon Rd.

AGENDA

1. Call To Order/Quorum Count (I-Pei)
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of Nov. 18, 2009 Board Meeting
3. Treasurer’s Report (Rob)
   1. Financial Status, December 31, 2009
4. Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. Drought Response Status
   2. HTGCD Well Permit Renewal
   3. 2009/2010 Tariff Revision
5. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
   1. Cross Connection Control Program
   2. Severe Weather Maintenance and Repairs

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Monday, December 21, 2009, 2:30 PM, at 126 Sunrise Canyon Rd.

AGENDA

1. Call To Order/Quorum Count (I-Pei)
2. Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District Discussion with Co-General Managers Dana Carmean and Rick Broun regarding well permit renewal
3. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
4. Treasurer’s Report (Rob)
5. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
6. Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. 2009/2010 Tariff revision
   2. Groundwater Rule
   3. Water Quality Report

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Wednesday, November 18, 2009, 7:30 PM, at 116 Sky Ranch Circle.

AGENDA

1. Call To Order/Quorum Count (I-Pei)
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of Previous Meeting
3. Treasurer’s Report (Rob)
   1. Financial Status, October 31, 2009
4. Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. Drought Response Status
   2. HTGCD Well Permit Renewal
   3. 2009/2010 Tariff Revision
   4. Cross Connection Control Program
   5. Insurance renewal
5. Operations Status Report (Harlan)
   1. HTGCD Board meeting update
   2. Wellspec conference paper
   3. Groundwater Rule Update (I-Pei)

I am glad to report that we may now move back to a Stage 1 Response and its associated rate schedule.

Water conservation efforts of our community have been stellar for the month of October. The watering schedules for Stage 2 response are no longer required, but the following are conservation measures recommended for Stage 1.

1. Check for toilet and faucet leaks and repair any found leaks immediately.
2. Use water displacement device in toilet tank or replace older model toilets with HET models when possible.
3. Install aerators on faucets. Don’t leave faucets running when not in use.
4. While waiting for hot water to reach faucet, catch cold water in a container to be reused.
5. Never use the toilet to dispose of trash.
6. Only run dishwasher with full load.
7. Store drinking water in a container in the refrigerator.
8. Reduce use of garbage disposal.
9. Wash only full loads of laundry.
10. Turn off master water shutoff when out of town or on vacation.
11. Draw less water for bath or reduce shower time.
12. Do not over water houseplants.

1. Comply with 5-day schedule for lawn watering and always only water between 8pm and 8am.
2. For automatic sprinkler systems:
   1. check sprinkler heads regularly to prevent clogging
   2. adjust to eliminate overspray and
   3. adjust run times and frequency monthly to respond to water schedules and changing rainfall and temperature conditions.
3. Use hand-held hose, drip irrigation, or soaker hoses for trees, garden, non-turf areas and bedded plants.
4. Avoid watering on windy days.
5. Cut lawns on highest setting and leave lawn clippings on lawn instead of bagging.
6. For hose-end sprinklers – use sprinkler timers to limit water duration.
7. Use mulch to conserve soil moisture.
8. Limit vehicle washing except when conducted with a bucket or hand-held hose with a positive shutoff during designated watering days and times. If possible, use a commercial car wash that recycles water
9. Wash vehicles over lawn areas where possible.
10. Vehicle wash fundraisers should be conducted at a commercial vehicle wash facility using such facilities equipment.
11. Keep pools covered when not in use.
12. Limit pool filter backwashing to only when necessary.
13. No washing of driveways, pavement, or streets.
14. Utilize supplemental water sources where possible (e.g. purchased water, collected rainwater, etc.). Supplemental water sources must be isolated from the WSC system per TCEQ regulations.

Thank you for your conservation efforts and good stewardship of our shared groundwater resource. If you have any questions, or if I may provide additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (512) 847-9045.

Get to know your neighbors – celebrate National Night Out: a nationwide annual event designed to raise crime prevention awareness, strengthen neighborhood spirit and unity, and foster community-police partnerships.

Members from the Sheriff’s Department Crime Prevention Program will be there. There will also be representatives from the Fire Department and EMS. They will answer questions and have handouts and giveaways for children.

The arrival of much needed rain, while cause for enjoyment, is as yet insufficient to release us from the state of drought. Please remember that we remain in a Stage 2 Drought Condition, and that Stage 2 conservation measures must be in effect.

In August 2009, 19 households consumed in excess of 10,000 gallons each. Of these, 6 households consumed in excess of 20,000 gallons each. At the opposite end of the spectrum, 31 households consumed 5,000 gallons or less in the month of August, so kudos to you! The monthly neighborhood consumption charts are posted on the SRE website (under WSC Documents), so we will see shortly how the recent rains have affected usage rates in September.

Perhaps we should attribute our high demand for SRE-WSC water this year to the vastly improved water quality and reliability, after our significant capital improvements? Certainly, it is a far greater pleasure to hydrate our plants with water that does not kill it from excess salt, or fill our pools with water that does not leave a yellow crust on the tile.

We can all appreciate the difference, qualitatively, but for those of you who like quantitative comparisons, our Total Dissolved Solids was analyzed at 2150 mg/L in 2007, and plummeted to 398 mg/L in June 2009. Our sulfate concentration was detected at 1280 mg/L in 2007 and dropped to 68.0 mg/L in 2009. Our total hardness (as CaCO3) was analyzed at 1280 mg/L in 2006 and decreased to 323 mg/L in 2009. The improvement in water quality is remarkable and undeniable.

In addition, our water supply remains viable during power outages, with the reliability provided by our emergency generator. Our emergency generator has already provided peace of mind during a few minor outages this year, and additional outages are likely on the horizon with the promise of a wet El Niño year.

Our improved water quality and reliability came with a price tag of $80,000, which will be paid off over the next 7 years with our monthly water fees. Members of the Skyline Ranch Estates Water Supply Corporation pay for the ability to turn a tap in the house and have access to a priceless resource: clean and reliable water in times of drought and plenty.

Just as a final reminder, the full text of the Drought Contingency Plan is available on the Skyline Ranch Estates website. The Stage 2 Drought Response is included in this article, for your convenience. Changes promulgated during our Board meeting on September 8, 2009 include a specific restriction against filling or refilling drained (i.e., empty) pools, and specifying that monthly consumption in excess of 20,000 gallons may be subject to flow restriction.

Thank you for your conservation efforts and good stewardship of our shared groundwater resource. If you have any questions or if I may provide additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (512) 847-9045.

1. Continue conservation activities recommended in Stage 1 Response.
2. Irrigation of landscaped areas with hose-end sprinklers or automatic irrigation systems shall be limited to Sundays and Thursdays for customers with a street address or post office box number ending in an even number (0, 2, 4, 6, or 8), and Saturdays and Wednesdays for water customers with an address ending in an odd number (1, 3, 5, 7, or 9). Irrigation of landscaped areas is further limited to the hours of 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 am and between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on designated watering days. However, irrigation of landscaped areas is permitted at anytime if it is by means of a hand-held hose equipped with positive shutoff, soaker hose, drip irrigation system, faucet-filled bucket or watering can of five (5) gallons or less.
3. Use of soaker hoses for foundation protection shall be limited to designated water days and times.
4. Use of water to wash any motor vehicle, motorbike, boat, trailer or other vehicle is prohibited except on designated watering days between the hours of 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. and between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. Such washing, when allowed, shall be done with a bucket or hand-held hose equipped with a positive shutoff. If possible, use a commercial car wash that recycles water.
5. Use of water to fill or refill drained pools is prohibited. Topping off of existing pools for essential maintenance purposes is permitted only during designated watering days between the hours of 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m., and between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.
6. Use of water to fill, refill, or add to any wading pools or Jacuzzi-type pools is prohibited except on designated watering days between the hours of 6:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. and between 8:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.
7. Operation of any ornamental fountain or pond for aesthetic or scenic purposes is prohibited except where necessary to support aquatic life or where such fountains or ponds are equipped with a recirculation system.
8. Use of water from hydrants shall be limited to fire fighting, related activities, or other activities necessary to maintain public health, safety, and welfare.
9. The following nonessential uses of water are prohibited:
   1. use of water to wash down any sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots, tennis courts, or other hard-surfaced areas;
   2. use of water to wash down buildings or structures for purposes other than immediate fire protection;
   3. use of water for dust control;
   4. flushing gutters or permitting water to run or accumulate in any gutter or street;
   5. failure to repair a controllable leak(s) within a reasonable period after having been given notice directing the repair of such leak(s).

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Tuesday September 8, 2009, 7:30 PM, 700 Skyline Ridge Lookout.

AGENDA

A proposed revision of the SRE-WSC conservation and drought contingency plan will be reviewed and public input solicited.

We are all aware of the current drought conditions that continue in Central Texas. As a community with a single well source, we should all be concerned with the sustainability of our water supply. In conjunction with this current situation, please remember that we are in a Stage 2 Drought Condition. The Stage 2 water restrictions have been in effect since the beginning of July, but it is clear from the metered consumption data that the need to conserve water has not been understood with the seriousness that our situation demands. A record number of 24 households were classified as exceptional users in July, a euphemism for households consuming more than 10,000 gallons during the month.

I urge you to balance your plant, lawn, and pool watering needs with the consideration that the groundwater level in our well is dropping, and until recharge is available in the form of rainfall, it is in the neighborhood’s best interest to conserve water primarily for household use.

As aquifer levels continue to drop, the possibility remains that we will need to designate a Stage 3 Drought Condition, which will incur additional mandatory water restrictions. In addition, a possible means for reducing usage, if voluntary conservation efforts continue to be inadequate, is to reduce the operating pressures of our water system. At present, we remain in Stage 2, at our standard operating pressures.

Stage 2 water restrictions enact the following water use restrictions for all customers:

1. Irrigation of landscaped areas with hose-end sprinklers or automatic irrigation systems shall be limited to Sundays and Thursdays for customers with a street address or post office box number ending in an even number, and Saturdays and Wednesdays for water customers with an address ending in an odd number. All irrigation of landscaped areas is limited to the hours between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. on designated watering days. However, irrigation of landscaped areas is permitted at anytime if it is by means of a hand-held hose, a faucet-filled bucket or watering can of 5 gallons or less, or drip irrigation system.
2. Use of water to wash any motor vehicle, motorbike, boat, trailer or other vehicle is prohibited except on designated water days between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Such washing, when allowed, shall be done with a hand-held bucket or hand-held hose equipped with a positive shutoff.
3. Use of water to fill, refill, or add to any indoor or outdoor swimming pools, wading pools, or Jacuzzi-type pools is prohibited except on designated watering days between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.
4. Operation of any ornamental fountain or pond for aesthetic or scenic purposes is prohibited except where necessary to support aquatic life or where such fountains or ponds are equipped with a recirculation system.
5. Use of water from hydrants shall be limited to fire fighting, or other related activities necessary to maintain public health, safety, and welfare.
6. The following uses of water are defined as non-essential and are prohibited:
   1. Wash down of any sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots, tennis courts, or other hard-surfaced areas
   2. Wash down of buildings or structures for purposes other than immediate fire protection
   3. Water for dust control
   4. Permitting water to run or accumulate in any ditch or street
   5. Failing to repair a controllable leak(s) within a reasonable period after having been given notice directing the repair of such leaks(s)

By reducing your water use now, you will be doing your part to ensure that water continues to be available to every household for essential daily uses. Your actions now may also keep the SRE-WSC Board from having to adopt more stringent conservation measures.

Many of you have already begun water conservation measures and we thank you for your efforts. Please continue these efforts until we can get some much needed relief in the way of rain.

Thank you for your assistance with this important matter. If you have any questions or if I may provide additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (512) 847-9045.

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Tuesday August 25, 2009, 7:30 PM, at 116 Sky Ranch Circle.

AGENDA

1. Quorum Count/Call To Order (I-Pei)
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of Previous Meeting
   2. Summary of TCEQ Drinking Water Conference
3. Treasurer’s Report (Rob)
   1. Financial Status, August 25, 2009
4. Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. 2009 Tariff Revision
   2. Drought Response Status
   3. New Customers and Construction
   4. Insurance Renewal
   5. Water Quality Testing Results
5. Operations Status Report
   1. Meter Lockouts (Harlan)
   2. Resolution of TCEQ Inspection (Eric)
   3. Groundwater Rule Update (Lisa/Eric)

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Tuesday July 7, 2009, 7 PM, at 126 Sunrise Canyon Rd.

AGENDA

1. President’s Report (I-Pei)
   1. Call to order and quorum count
   2. 2008 Consumer Confidence Report
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of Previous Meeting
3. Treasurer’s Report (Rob)
   1. Financial Status, June 30, 2009
4. Continuing Business (I-Pei)
   1. 2009 Tariff
   2. Drought Plan Revision
   3. Water Quality Testing
5. Operation Manager’s Report (Harlan)
   1. Site Construction Status

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Construction activities at your water well site have quieted, as we have completed all of the planned well rehabilitation work: well cleaning, installing the inflatable well packer, installing and testing a propane-powered emergency generator, and replacing the fencing. Activities needed to keep our water supply safe, reliable, and sustainable never completely cease, however, and your volunteer Board works diligently to ensure what is often taken for granted: economical, fresh water from our taps.

Thank you for your part in making the upgrades to our water system possible. Your support and cooperation during the planning and construction phases were essential to the success of our well rehabilitation project. Both the quality of water and reliability of our system during power outages have been markedly improved. If you haven’t yet already, I urge you to take advantage of the cost savings in the amount of salt needed for softener regeneration by adjusting your water softener settings to reflect a total dissolved solids concentration of 25 grains per gallon (down from approximately 90 grains per gallon).

It is no secret that we are in a state of drought. As the temperatures continue to soar to record levels and the prospects for significant rainfall this season dwindles, the Board has determined that the current situation warrants a drought response level of Stage 2 for our water supply. The Stage 2 level requires that we achieve a 15 percent reduction in total water usage, and doubles the usage charge per thousand gallons for consumption in excess of 10,000 gallons per month. Thus, charges for users of 1 through 10,000 gallons per month remain the same, but will increase from $2.00 to $4.00 and from $4.00 to $8.00 per thousand gallons for consumption in excess of 10,000 gallons and 20,000 gallons, respectively.

The Stage 2 drought response level enacts the following water use restrictions for all customers:

1. Irrigation of landscaped areas with hose-end sprinklers or automatic irrigation systems shall be limited to Sundays and Thursdays for customers with a street address or post office box number ending in an even number, and Saturdays and Wednesdays for water customers with an address ending in an odd number. All irrigation of landscaped areas is limited to the hours between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. on designated watering days. However, irrigation of landscaped areas is permitted at anytime if it is by means of a hand-held hose, a faucet-filled bucket or watering can of 5 gallons or less, or drip irrigation system.
2. Use of water to wash any motor vehicle, motorbike, boat, trailer or other vehicle is prohibited except on designated water days between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Such washing, when allowed, shall be done with a hand-held bucket or hand-held hose equipped with a positive shutoff.
3. Use of water to fill, refill, or add to any indoor or outdoor swimming pools, wading pools, or Jacuzzi-type pools is prohibited except on designated watering days between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 a.m., and between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.
4. Operation of any ornamental fountain or pond for aesthetic or scenic purposes is prohibited except where necessary to support aquatic life or where such fountains or ponds are equipped with a recirculation system.
5. Use of water from hydrants shall be limited to fire fighting, or other related activities necessary to maintain public health, safety, and welfare.
6. The following uses of water are defined as non-essential and are prohibited:
   1. Wash down of any sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots, tennis courts, or other hard-surfaced areas
   2. Wash down of buildings or structures for purposes other than immediate fire protection
   3. Water for dust control
   4. Permitting water to run or accumulate in any ditch or street
   5. Failing to repair a controllable leak(s) within a reasonable period after having been given notice directing the repair of such leaks(s)

These mandatory conservation measures and the Stage 2 tariff are in effect for the July billing cycle.

Enforcing our drought conservation measures is one of several activities required of our WSC by various regulatory entities. Another requirement of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is issuing the 2008 Consumer Confidence Report, enclosed in your June bill statements.

If you have any questions about our conservation efforts or the 2008 Consumer Confidence Report, wish to learn more about your water supply or volunteer your services to our WSC (mechanically-minded and book-keeping brained folks always welcome), please feel free to contact me at (512) 847-9045 or ipeihodge@gmail.com.

Best regards,

I-Pei Hsiu Hodge
President, Skyline Ranch Estates Water Supply Corporation

http://skylineranch.org/content/filemgr/files/wsc_2008_water_quality.pdf [pdf, 2.7 MB]

Introduction
The 2009 Annual Meeting of the Skyline Ranch Estates Property Owners Association was held at the Wimberley Community Center, at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday April 25, 2009.

A quorum requiring two-thirds of eligible membership votes was not met for this meeting.

The meeting was called to order by POA president Carl Galante, who welcomed property owners and introduced POA Board members:

• Carl Galante, President
• Gerald Tempton, Vice-President
• Gary Yowell, Treasurer
• Petesie Lee, Secretary
• Judy Nicholls [not present]
• Carol Wilson, Hospitality

It was noted that, next year, three new board members will be needed, as three terms will have been completed.

Minutes
The minutes of the 2008 Annual Meeting were presented, and a motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes.

Treasurer’s Report
The treasurer’s report was presented by Gary Yowell. The annual report was prepared, reflecting the time period of 4/25/08 through 4/24/09:

• Starting balance: $13,794.20
• Total inflow: $2,986.57
• Total outflow: $1,736.89
• Ending balance: $15,417.91

Recognition and Thanks
President Galante recognized and thanked

• Susan Ross for the Christmas party
• Eric Eubank for the website/mail list (and encouraged members to join)
• Pat Koeppe for the Neighborhood Watch program
• Bob Balslev and the Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board

Recognition of New Neighbors
Several new neighbors were introduced: Jay Newman, Toni and James Nelson, Bob and Lisa Shine, and Carla and Curtis Phythian.

Updating By-Laws
The discussion of changing the by-laws was revisited. 2/3 of members are needed for a quorum and 3/4 for a change in the by-laws. A committee was to have been formed after the 2008 Annual Meeting, and President Galante noted that no action had been taken. It was agreed that by-laws revision is a priority, that a committee will be formed to draft a letter to POA members, and that another attempt be made to update the by-laws. It is especially important that members understand that the by-laws revision does not in any way affect the covenants. A 100% vote of the membership is needed to change the covenants.

Volunteers for the by-laws revision committee:

• Joan Balslev
• Julie Ray
• Henry Lykken
• Jan Harrison

Neighborhood Watch
Neighborhood Watch chair Pat Koeppe gave a report of the committee’s activity during the recent well rehabilitation project, and it was noted that the committee was a big help in this regard, in notifying property owners by telephone, who could not be reached by email.

Architectural Committee
The committee reported that there are two new homes under construction, as well as a barn and rainwater collection systems. Members of the committee are Bernie Ross, Joe Harrison, Beverly Galante, and Carl Galante.

Water Board
President Galante explained the possible use of POA funds to help fund water system upgrades. There will be a meeting of the POA Board with the Water Board.

Storage Shed
Harlan Mettenbrink reported that the well-site storage shed is in need of repair. Bob Fulton and Joe Harrison volunteered to make repairs.

Website/Mail List
There was a discussion of the possibility of including recommendations for contractors, plumbers, electricians, workmen, etc on SRE website and mail list. After discussion, it was agreed that the mail list works fine now by asking for recommendations on an individual basis.

Tax Assessments
It was agreed that, with new property assessments coming soon, the neighborhood mail list/website would be a good way to cooperate in lowering assessments, as needed.

Land on Skyline Drive
Someone raised the question of the land on the corner of Ranch Road 12 and Skyline Dr., as piles of cedar are a fire hazard and an eyesore. The Board agreed to look into this problem.

Speed Limits
There was a discussion of observing speed limits in the neighborhood and also calling the county about the missing stop sign on the corner of Skyline Ridge Lookout and Valley Vista.

Adjournment
A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting at 11:40 A.M.

Petesie Lee
SRE-POA Secretary

NOTICE

In compliance with Texas Open Meetings Act (Texas Government Code, section 551.041), the following notice is given: a meeting of the SRE Water Supply Corporation (WSC) Board will be held Tuesday June 9, 2009, 7 PM, at 126 Sunrise Canyon Rd.

AGENDA

1. President’s Report (I-Pei)
   1. Resignation of Jan Harrison as Director
   2. Nomination of Lisa Shine as Director
   3. Director Roles and Responsibilities
2. Secretary’s Report (Eric)
   1. Minutes of Previous Meeting
   2. Skyline Yahoo Groups Posting Guidelines
   3. Recording Meetings/Open Government
3. Treasurer’s Report (Rob)
   1. Status of Community Resources Loan Application
   2. Financial Status, May 31, 2009
4. New Business (I-Pei)
   1. Consumer Confidence Report
   2. 2009 Tariff
   3. Drought Plan Revision
   4. TCEQ/EPA Regulations Updates
   5. SRE-WSC Map Update (Eric)
5. Operations
   1. Site Construction Status (Rob/Harlan)
   2. Meter Lockouts (Harlan)
   3. Water Quality Testing (I-Pei)
   4. Road Repair (I-Pei)
   5. Operations Manual/Packer Documentation (Harlan)
   6. Emergency Generator Operations Plan

We’ve tinkered and tested, pumped and puzzled, sampled and squinted, and ultimately have been forced to conclude that the outcome of our well rehabilitation project is a bona fide success. Qualitatively, you are likely to have noticed the decreased amount of iron and magnesium build-up in your filters, and the dramatic decrease in hardness of your tap water. Gone from my countertops and dried dishes is the crusty yellowish residue of salt; even my children have noticed the increased sheen and softness of newly washed hair. Quantitatively, recent well water samples indicate hardness levels ranging from 24 to 29 grains per gallon, an emphatic reduction from pre-well rehabilitation hardness levels ranging from 88 grains per gallon to 91 grains per gallon.

The significant reduction of the hardness in the pumped water and the consistency of the hardness measurements since the conclusion of the construction work offer proof positive that the inflatable packer is stably situated and functioning properly to reduce infiltration of the poor quality water from the upper Glen Rose Aquifer into the desired water pumped from the lower Glen Rose Aquifer.

You may now modify or contact your softener service company to modify your softener settings to reflect the improved quality of our water supply. The modifications will reduce your softener’s salt consumption and increase the time between regeneration cycles, resulting in an operational cost savings for you.

Water Technologies is used by some of our residents and they have been apprised of the change in our water quality.

I-Pei Hodge
SRE-WSC President

Oh happy day. 

The boil water notice is officially lifted.

Analytical results from the well water samples collected on May 4, 2009 did not indicate the presence of bacteria in four out of four samples tested.  You may now return to normal water usage applications.

I-Pei Hodge
SRE-WSC President

On Sunday, May 3, contractors injected chlorine solution into our well to re-disinfect the downhole well system.  Pumping from the well into our storage tanks was ceased until today, May 4, when our well was purged of the downhole chlorine solution and then returned to service. 

Water samples were collected from our well today after rechlorination; laboratory analytical results are expected by Wednesday and will indicate whether we will be able to discontinue our boil water notice.

Thank you for your patience.

I-Pei Hodge
SRE-WSC President
(512) 847-9045

The boil water notice is still in effect. The three samples I reported on yesterday did not indicate a result eliminating the “boil water notice.”

Please be reassured that we continue to chlorinate the water delivered to our storage tanks and to our customers. The issue remains with getting a good test result from the source, before our chlorination is added.

PGMS has been coordinating with the Texas Commission On Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to resolve this issue for you. This weekend we will chlorinate the well, but not to the extent that you will be affected in your home.

On Monday, another sample/samples will be taken to satisfy the regulatory guidance under which we function.

It is my regret that for the past two years, serving as the SRE-WSC President, that this issue could not have been packaged as “done” and the WSC move forward to new challenges. That has not occurred — YET.

Today, new WSC board members were accepted. I have resigned, as planned, and I-Pei Hodge now has the baton/tiller as President of the SRE-WSC. Last year we recognized her experience and capabilities as a professional in the service of providing quality water service to our customers. We gave her a year to learn the community culture/business, and she now has the authority to represent you as your President. Please welcome her and help her as she moves forward.

There are two new Board Directors: Eric Eubank, who will function as Secretary and Jan Harrison, as Director-at-Large.

I want to thank Rex Wilson for his contributions/efforts in the past year as Secretary of your WSC.

It has been my pleasure to serve in my capacity as President, and I look forward to our established System Improvement goals: Reliability and Quality of the product we provide you. The opportunity for me to serve allowed the establishment of many community relationships. For that I am grateful, and in the future, I encourage new community members to stand up, volunteer, and serve. The personal benefits are priceless and unforeseen.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
Ex-President, SRE-WSC

We did not hear from the laboratory today re: BAC-T test results. Will follow-up tomorrow.

I have no answers, other than what is stated above.

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

ACTIVITY

A water sample was not taken on Monday/Tuesday, primarily due to weather. Three separate samples were taken this AM. If one of the three passes, we will cease the “BOIL WATER NOTICE.”

Recent samples of mineral content indicate that the content in parts/million has diminished by ~50%. We are monitoring this trend to ensure this will be the new stabilized concentration. If so, much of our goal has been met.

We will advise you of a stabilized environment so that you can reduce the frequency of your water softener cycles.

Stay tuned.

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Download/view

1. Original PowerPoint presentation (5.25 MB):
http://skylineranch.org/content/filemgr/files/wsc_2009_annual_meeting_pre.ppt

2. Reduced size, pdf format (526 KB):
http://skylineranch.org/content/filemgr/files/wsc_2009_annual_meeting_pre.pdf

The following Hays-Trinity Groundwater Conservation District (HTGCD) documents are referenced in this post:
User Drought Contingency Plan (UDCP) [pdf, 4.6 MB]
Proposed Legislation, Draft – Apr 26, 2009 [pdf, 62 KB]
Proposed Legislation: Analysis [pdf, 40 KB]

This post concerns the HTGCD User Drought Contingency Plan (UDCP), as well as draft legislation to be considered by the Texas Legislature, which proposes to give HTGCD the funding required to “manage” water utilities/users under its control by raising fees and taxes.

Consequences of proposed legislation to citizens are a proposed maximum tax rate of 5 cents per 100 dollars of property valuation, plus fees for new wells ($400.00), new customers tap fee ($400.00), and customer transfers ($125.00). The draft legislation would provide the HTGCD with the resources from taxes and fees to provide active enforcement of the UDCP.

I recommend you review the UDCP and reflect on how its enforcement will affect your WSC to meet these requirements.

Our existing contract with PGMS will be significantly impacted by the increased regulatory practices mandated in the plan.

Regards,
Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

ACTIVITY

CONTINUE BOILING WATER. Today we received notice that the results of a bacteria analysis sample collected Thursday AM was positive. Until we can take another sample on Monday AM, with results on Tuesday PM, we need to continue boiling water for internal consumption (drinking/cooking). All other uses are approved and emphasized. Our storage tanks are full.

GOOD NEWS: Two water samples taken a day apart indicate that the mineral content of our water has been reduced by ~ 50%. We hope this continues, but it is early in the game to attribute this to moving the pump an additional 100′ lower (from 525′ to 625″ below the surface) into the Lower Glen Rose Aquifer — or the packer installation at ~480′. Science is a progressive phase, not immediate gratification, as we continue to be used to.

Stay tuned, news at ???

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

The combined annual meeting of the SRE Property Owners Association and Water Supply Corporation is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2009 at the Wimberley Community Center in the Senior Room. The POA meeting will begin at 10:30 A.M., immediately followed by the Water Supply Corporation meeting, and ending with lunch.

The main course and drinks will be provided. POA members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share. In the past this event has been a lot of fun and a good time to visit with neighbors. Please plan to attend.

At ~5:25 PM, our well is functioning properly – providing a flow of ~60 gallons/min to the storage tanks.

“TAKE A SHOWER BUT BOIL WATER.”

Other than routine household washing, please limit outside usage until we have good, positive results over a period of time.

Further evaluations need to be made to validate the fact that we are in the Glen Rose Lower Aquifer and that the packer is separating the soluble gypsum minerals from the pump.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

ACTIVITY

At 4:03 PM today, our pump, now down at 625′ –versus the previous 525′– commenced pumping water at its expected rate (See Photo) of ~60 gallons/minute. We still need to cleanse the well by pumping out residual chemicals and sediment. We should be pumping to our storage tanks by late evening. We have cancelled additional deliveries of water to the site.

Given we are not currently adding water to our storage tanks, I am requesting that conservation measures continue until advised, tomorrow. In the morning, we will take a sample for bacteria testing and should have results by Friday. Positive results will allow cessation of the “boil water notice.” If our storage tanks are full in the AM, I will send out “take a shower, but continue boiling water” message.

CONSERVATION

In the past day, we consumed 4400 gallons of water. We are now relying on what is in the storage tanks (~12,000 gallons usable) to get us through until we are filling the storage tanks from our well. The community has proven during this project that it can consume as little as 4400 gallons a day, or up to 15000 gallons a day. It’s now up to us, over the evening, to conserve.

Thanks for your support.

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Down hole project: Wet gold, 2009-04-22 [click to enlarge]

ACTIVITY

Today we commenced insertion of the pump/packer/stainless pipe. At 6:15 PM tonight, there were 8 sections of 20′ pipe remaining out of ~31 total. My expectation is that sometime on Wednesday AM, we will commence pumping water, which needs to be evaluated for bacteria (~2 days). The good news is that once we start pumping – and there is good clarity – our customers can commence normal watering, with the continuing caveat to boil our water for personal, internal consumption.

Attached is a photo taken of the “packer” in position, preparing to go down-hole.

I want to thank whomever in the community retrieved our “boil water notice” and reposted it.

CONSUMPTION

I guess Monday was “wash and water day” for some of our customers. Consumption in the past 24 hours was back to “normal” at ~ 15,000 gallons. It is disappointing that the WSC customers could not hang in there for 1-2 days longer. We have stressed the community in this project, through unanticipated delays, but it was artificial in terms of the long term. Should, in the coming future, the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District (HTGCD) get some regulatory “teeth” from the legislature, the 30% reduction they claim to currently mandate, given the drought, will cause your WSC to take drastic action. In conservation, that normally means unbearably higher rates to change behavior.

No more soapbox, and I hope to report that we are pumping tomorrow.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Down hole project: packer insertion, 2009-04-20 [click to enlarge]

ACTIVITY

The chlorine was removed from the hole today and the contractor’s pipe pulled. Tuesday we will commence installation of the pump/packer/stainless pipe. A picture of the packer is attached, with our WSC Chief Engineer assessing the multiple components.

CONSUMPTION

It was confirmed today that Sunday’s consumption was 5100 gallons. Sunday PM, late, four truckloads of water (8800 gallons) were delivered. I will not have a consumption report for Monday. Data collection error, sorry.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Down hole project: packer and engineer, 2009-04-20 [click to enlarge]

ACTIVITY

Well currently “steeping” with chlorine. Chlorine removal and pump/pipe/packer installation to commence Monday AM.

CONSUMPTION

5100 gallons, with the caveat that there were no reported deliveries today. This is great for the community, if true.

WE ARE STILL UNDER A “BOIL WATER NOTICE” UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. FRIDAY’S STORM RELOCATED OUR SIGN AT THE ENTRANCE.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

ACTIVITY

Yesterday we completed cleansing of the well with acid. We have now cleansed the acid and poured chlorine down the hole to finish the process. The well is currently “steeping” with chlorine. On Monday we will commence installing the pump/packer and stainless pipe. We should be pumping water NLT than Wednesday AM. Once pumping is started and the chlorine removed, we will gather a sample for bacteria testing: keep boiling or hauling your water to your home for personal consumption.

CONSUMPTION

We consumed 8600 gallons of water in the past 24 hours. A good thing and thanks. We only needed to haul two truckloads today and cancelled the remaining three – saving $334.00 in hauling fees for the project.

I think there is a light in the tunnel – hopefully not a train.

Regards,
Bob

Harlan has filled in for me in the past two days, as I was called out of town on assignment. Murphy always interferes with plans.

That having been said, we (our community) need to pull together for a few more days (TBD) to endure a project beset with scientific analysis, reset given down-hole unknowns, and now weather complications. Water will be continued to be delivered through the weekend. But to be honest, I do not know at this time if it will equal consumption over the weekend. With today’s rain, I can see no need for outside watering in the next few days. However, that is your personal decision and your commitment to your community. NO GESTAPO METER POLICE HAVE BEEN CONTRACTED!

One customer contacted me this PM and stated that he had not washed or showered in five days. I stated that this was beyond our expectations and that he should take the necessary actions to meet his health needs.

I can only ask this: “When was your last shower?” I was gone to North TX for two days, so I can say, this AM and yesterday, I had a shower at some other WSC’s expense. Consider your situation. I know that we have several households that have critical health needs, and for them I say “do what you’ve got to do, as we care.”

Most of us are not in that situation, and to those I say, be patient.

My expectation is that Tuesday/Wednesday we should (?) be pumping water, but the boil water requirement may be still in effect until we get a clean bill of health from the laboratories.

In the meantime, I have ordered a “bulletproof vest” in anticipation of my presentation on 25 April 2009 and political national Armageddon proposed by some.

In all seriousness, we have learned a lot regarding community communication efficiency, and the Directors will make that part of the FY 2010 planning goal for improvement.

The Block Captains, bless their souls, are our last point of defense/communication. I truly want to thank Pat Koeppe and her team: Petesie Lee, Ed Ziegler, Carol Wilson, Kay Allison and Beverly Galante for contributing to this communication effort for improved water quality and reliability.

Additionally, Eric Eubank has been the Community Gatekeeper attempting to get all those affected residents connected to our first line of communication, the SRE Yahoo Group. His efforts you cannot believe, as he is truly committed to our community and its success.

Please call him and express your thanks – as well as to the Block Captains.

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Progress was slow today, due to the storm and possibility of lightning. The work being done, as of now, is to install the piping necessary to evacuate the chemical treatment materials.

Our water use remains the same – we used 11,000 gallons. We are not reaching our goal but are able to meet the demand by trucking water. Hope we don’t have a glitch in deliveries.

Thanks.
Harlan Mettenbrink
SRE-WSC Operations Manager

The project ran into a problem late Wednesday evening: the chemical insertion tube would not go to the bottom, where it is needed to treat the formation with chemicals. To solve the problem, the drilling rig was set up, drill stem pipe was lowered to the bottom, and the treating chemicals were installed at the proper level. This treatment will require 24 hours for complete reaction.

You may have noticed the water delivery truck was sitting on the side of the road, broken drive shaft. Another truck assumed the duties and delivered 11,00 gallons; and we, as a community, used this delivered amount.

Hopefully, with everyone crossing our fingers – and maybe toes – we can complete this project with no more major setbacks.

In Place of Bob,
Harlan Mettenbrink
SRE-WSC Operations Manager

ACTIVITY

• Flushing complete
• Chemical insertion in progress
• Commencing generator installation project

CONSUMPTION

In the past 24 hours, we consumed what was delivered: 11,000 gallons (5 truckloads). Not a great trend since yesterday. Our normal usage is 15,000 gallons/day.

Nothing further needs to be said. But tomorrow will tell how serious the community is about emergency conservation.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Consumption measurements were taken at 11 AM today, 14 Apr 2009. In the past 24 hours, we used ~4500 gallons. This is exceptional: means that half of the planned daily deliveries ($111.75/delivery) are required at this rate. I do expect consumption to increase slightly, as certain household needs accrue.

Cleaning of the well commenced this AM. The process involves pumping compressed air through a 1″ pipe, encased in a 3″ pipe. Underground air pressure forces water and sediment up the 3″ pipe, where it is collected until clear water flows. This process is done in increments of 20′ — from 600′ to the bottom of the hole at 705′ — and consequently, is time consuming.

We hope to complete the cleaning process today and insert the chemicals designed to purify the hole.

More tomorrow, and thanks for the conservation effort the past 27 hours since we started yesterday. Images from today’s report are included below.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Down-hole Project overview [click to enlarge]

Pump removed [click to enlarge]

Cleaning flow [click to enlarge]

ACTIVITY

The project was started this AM, with the following tasks completed:

• Well pump and pipe removed.
• Insertion of a 3″ inch pipe encasing a 1″ pipe for the cleansing activity commencing tomorrow.
• This past Friday (10 Apr 2009), the inflatable-packer was shipped from Denver, CO. Scheduled delivery: Tuesday PM (14 Apr 2009).

We are close to being on schedule, from a task-planning perspective. Details tomorrow.

CONSUMPTION

• Between 8 AM and 6 PM today, we consumed 3400 gallons of water in 10 hours. I will have a 24 hour consumption report out tomorrow PM (11 AM – 11 AM)
• We are cautiously optimistic that we will meet a daily consumption goal of ~8000 gallons at this rate. TBD for now.

Thanks for your participation.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

Happy Easter, I hope you all have a wonderful day.

Much has been said over the past few weeks regarding your project: improved water quality and reliability are the goals.

To get there, Easter is the last day that you have to take care of those non-conservation actions, all discussed before.

Tomorrow, Monday, 13 April 2009, at 8 AM, the pump will be shut down and the well pipe removed for down-hole cleansing. We then must rely on all our customers to initiate major conservation of this precious resource, which will be dependent on the trucking of a limited supply of water to maintain minimum consumption or face complete system shutdown. This effort is required through the coming Saturday, should the project go as planned.

For those new members of the SRE Yahoo Group site, you can read endless notifications, status reports, and re-planned actions since this project began two weeks ago. Just go to skylineranch.org for an afternoon of reading pleasure.

Remember, with the exception of special health needs, our individual consumption goal is 50 gallons/day/person in your household. You should all be expert meter readers when this is over: a skill which can result in catching reading error charges in your water bill.

Best wishes, and see you at the Annual Meeting. I will be the guy with the bullet proof vest.

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

We will commence removing the pump and pipe from our well, 8 AM, Monday, 13 April 2009. Your only access to water will be what we can haul/day at $111.23/truckload, or $.05/gallon. Strict water conservation measures are expected if we are to maintain a reliable supply for the six (6) days, Monday through Saturday.

Please fill your pools, water your grass/plants, and store water for these purposes during the trucking period by Sunday evening, 12 April 2009.

For a daily conservation goal, I would recommend not more than 50 gallons/day/person during this period. If we can do this, our trucking costs will be minimized, but more importantly, we can maintain an uninterrupted supply. Once each day, at approximately the same time, go read your meter – starting Sunday – and try to do whatever is possible in your household to meet this personal goal. A few households require more for medical purposes, and this is not an issue.

Our schedule, now, for completion:

• Friday, 10 April 2009: ship packer from Colorado to SRE.
• Monday, 13 April 2009: pull pump and pipe from the well/shut down normal supply, commence trucking water.
• Monday, 13 April 2009: commence cleansing the pool. Duration ~ 3.5 days.
• Thursday/Friday AM: commence installing packer/pump and new stainless pipe.
• Saturday: commence pumping well water.
• Saturday: continue with boil water notice until bacteria test results are received — early in week of 20 April 2009.

We appreciate your co-operation. More notices from me and the Block Captains will continue.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President

You may also view older SRE Water Supply Corporation documents, including previous aquifer level charts.

The following chart submitted by Andrew Jefferies of SRE-WSC Board, 2009-04-09. Click to enlarge.

The following pdf document is referenced in the post:
HTGCD Drought Contingency Plan: Conservation Measures [pdf, 112 KB]

Several of the WSC directors met with PGMS management this AM, and the following decisions were made:

1. Resume the project on Monday, 13 April 2009. This will include cleansing the well (cleaning and rust reduction) as originally planned, plus installation of an inflatable-packer to isolate the gypsum layer (aka “white stuff”) from the pump — resulting in a more palatable appearing water source, better tasting and with fewer minerals. The decision to install the packer was a result of the well logging on 31 Mar 2009.
2. Continue the “BOIL WATER POLICY” now in effect, until project completion. This is to minimize confusion associated with an on again/off again process.

We anticipate resumption of normal operations on Saturday, 18 April 2009.

I am pleased with the dialogue that this project has generated within the community. We all know more about water, conservation, and preventive measures than 9 days ago. I am attaching a page from the HTGCD User Drought Contingency Plan, which provides some common sense tips on conservation measures. You will be hearing more on this plan in the future.

Any questions, please contact me. I have a new set of hearing aids, so I promise not to miss a word.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President
847-2419

No change in the Boil Water Notice instructions. Hopefully tomorrow! When we have a complete recap, we will inform you of the regulatory process we have been involved in since day 1.

In the interim, many great pieces of information have been disseminated through the email list. We take none of them at issue. All of us are smarter than us.

Regards,

Bob Balslev
SRE-WSC President