Paula Priour’s home offers a picturesque view of the Texas Hill Country, with vast rolling hills and natural beauty. However, the tranquility of her surroundings is being threatened by the proposed expansion of the Mirasol line, which will extend past existing developments for another eight miles.
Mirasol Springs, a planned green development near the Pedernales River, Hamilton Pool, and Reimer’s Ranch, is the focal point of the controversy. The West Travis County Public Utility Agency (WTCPUA) is considering a water line extension to provide service to Mirasol Springs. Although the developers have agreed to certain restrictions, concerns have been raised by landowners like Paula Priour.
The proposed water line, funded by developers, is intended to support around 40 homesites, cabins, and a hotel at Mirasol Springs. Travis County leaders initially expressed apprehension about the development’s impact on taxpayer land, including Hamilton Pool. However, support for the water line has been voiced after assurances from the WTCPUA.
Despite these assurances, landowners like Paula and Nell Penridge are worried about the potential for increased development resulting from the water line expansion. Past experiences with water line extensions have led to rapid development, prompting concerns about property rights and quality of life.
For Nell Penridge, the expansion of the water line means losing several feet of her property to eminent domain. The construction will also result in the removal of heritage oaks and privacy bushes along her property. Similarly, Paula will see an additional water tank installed near her home to support the increased water flow.
While Paula remains cautiously optimistic about Mirasol Springs, she is concerned about potential changes to the agreement between the development and the WTCPUA. The lack of representation for developments and landowners west of Highway 71 adds to the uncertainty surrounding the project.
Amidst the opposition to the water line construction, Travis County Judge Andy Brown has signed a letter supporting the new line with specific restrictions. These restrictions aim to regulate the size of the water main line, prohibit the use of groundwater, and mandate rainwater harvesting for outdoor irrigation.
Activists against the water line construction have cited a study from The Meadows Center, highlighting the potential impact on groundwater depletion and development. However, hydrologist Doug Wierman has differentiated the Mirasol Springs project from previous pipelines, emphasizing its potential benefits for groundwater protection.
The WTCPUA board will convene at Bee Cave City Hall on November 18 to make a decision on the future of the water line. As stakeholders await the outcome of the meeting, the concerns and hopes of landowners like Paula and Nell underscore the complex interplay between development, conservation, and community interests.
