Homeowners in Wilson County are voicing their concerns about a proposed wastewater treatment plant that could discharge sewage into a neighborhood’s main creek. The plant, which would serve a new housing development, has sparked worries about contamination, odors, and flooding.

Concerns About the Plant

Debi Segovia, Alena Berlanga, and Andi Kelly, who live near the proposed discharge point, are among those who have expressed concerns about the plant. They are worried that the discharge from the plant could contaminate the Kicaster Creek, which runs through private properties, and cause severe stench and increased mosquitoes.

The creek is often dry but can flood during heavy rain, and if it does, the low water crossing used to access the neighborhood would be covered, blocking a major pathway for over 400 homes. The homeowners are not opposed to development but want it to be responsible and considerate of the people who already live in the area.

Alternative Proposal

Segovia, Berlanga, and Kelly have drafted their own proposal for the developer to consider. Their proposal includes routing the pipeline under U.S. Highway 181 instead of through their neighborhood and into Kicaster Creek. They also suggest adding vegetation around the facility to reduce odor, noise, and air quality concerns, and ensuring that exterior lighting is aimed downward to avoid shining into nearby homes.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is considering the permit application for the wastewater treatment plant. After residents filed comments in protest, a public meeting was held, which was attended by roughly 200 people. The meeting included an informal discussion period and a formal comment period.

No decision has been made on whether the wastewater treatment plant application will be approved. The homeowners are prepared to file a lawsuit if the TCEQ does not consider their concerns.

Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.