Texas drought expert to discuss water issues at Highland Lakes Democratic Women’s meeting
DANIEL CLIFTON • PICAYUNE EDITOR
MEADOWLAKES — The current Texas drought doesn’t know political lines, so members of the Highland Lakes Democratic Women hope anybody interested in learning about the situation and the possible future implications will attend the club’s meeting and presentation Oct. 24 at the Hidden Falls Golf Club restaurant.
“This is going to be about the water issues and what the drought’s impact has been and could continue to be on Texas and right here in our area,” club president Ravelle Kundinger said.
The club is hosting Alyssa Burgin, co-founder and director of the Texas Drought Project. The organization draws from experts in ranching, farming, hydrology, civil engineering, climatology and environmental science to gather information about the impacts of droughts and discuss how they impact local communities as well as the state.[box]IF YOU GO
WHAT: Highland Lakes Democratic Women meeting and program
WHEN: 11:30 a.m. Oct. 24
WHERE: Hidden Falls Golf Club, 220 Meadowlakes Drive in Meadowlakes
FOR MORE: Email Mary Ann Raesener at marinctx@nctv.com[/box]
“I think one of the things we’re interested in is learning about the current water supply in Texas but also what happens and what we can do if this drought continues,” club publicity chairwoman Marilyn Harris said. “It’s something everybody has an interest and stake in.”
One of the initiatives voters face in the upcoming Nov. 5 election is a Texas constitutional amendment authorizing the creation of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas and the State Water Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas. Officials said these funds would allow the state to develop future water resources.
If Texans approve the measure, listed as Proposition 6 on the ballot, state leaders could transfer $2 billion out of the “rainy day fund” for the creation of a water implementation fund. According to Gov. Rick Perry’s office, no state taxes would increase as a result of creating the fund.
Kundinger said, along with speaking about the current drought situation, Burgin will probably talk about Proposition 6 and how it could impact future water resources.
“I think she’s going to explain to us why we should support the measure,” Kundinger said.
The meeting starts at 11:30 a.m. with Burgin’s discussion beginning about noon. The restaurant is located at 220 Meadowlakes Drive in Meadowlakes. Marble Falls Independent School District board of trustee member Kelly Fox also will give a short presentation on the upcoming school bond election that is on the Nov. 5 ballot.
“Our meetings are always open to the public,” Kundinger said. “We always have speakers who are coming to speak on issues that are very important to everyone and relevant. We like to host speakers who help inform us about the current issues.”
Email Mary Ann Raesener at marinctx@nctv.com for more information, reservations or directions.
daniel@thepicayune.com