Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District Approves Legislative Vendors

CONROE, TX -- he Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District (LSGCD) approved two new vendors during their March 8, 2022, Board Meeting. This vote is a crucial first step in the District’s preparation for the 88th Texas Legislative Session. Phenix & Saenz and Jay & Sabrina Brown each have a proven track record of guiding public entities in advancing their goals and will be instrumental as LSGCD navigates the changes to the region's Legislative representation after redistricting last fall.

'Our decision to approve legislative consultants as vendors is not one the Board made lightly but after much consideration and vetting, we feel it is necessary to carry out our mission effectively,” said Harry Hardman, LSGCD Board President. “Water policy is highly complex at both the state and local level. We need a strong presence educating lawmakers and advocating for our issues daily at the Capitol in Austin, especially in light of our district’s changes in representation, while the LSGCD board focuses on the vast policy work in Montgomery County. Without strong Legislative relationships, decisions about what is best for the County fall outside of our control. This vote is solely intended to amplify the voices of our residents.”

Groundwater policy decisions are not limited to one organization. They are a combination of decisions made by the Texas Legislature and other governing organizations, making it essential that the District has a voice at the Capitol. A legislative consultant will be funded through LSGCD’s current budget and an increase in water use fees will not be necessary. The LSGCD Board is committed to keeping water use fees as low as possible.

Previously, LSGCD relied on existing relationships to advance policy priorities. However, last fall, the State Legislature released new redistricting maps. While they are not in effect yet, they signal notable changes for Montgomery County. The region's representation at the Capitol increased significantly, making it essential to the Board that the residents of Montgomery County have a strong voice at the state level.

The decision to approve these vendors will help raise residents' concerns and navigate policy procedures while providing our state leaders with the information needed to make informed policy decisions.

LSGCD's vote approves Phenix & Saenz and Jay & Sabrina Brown as vendors for the District. At this time, no contracts have been executed.

About LSGCD: LSGCD is led by a seven-member elected board of directors, whose primary interests are to regulate and conserve groundwater in Montgomery County while protecting the property rights and economic interests of the citizens who own the groundwater.