Highland Village City Council launched a $10.75 million utility bond process and wrapped up a three-year street program at its Tuesday, Oct. 13 meeting.

Council awarded the contract for Phase 3 of the 2022 Street Improvements Project, the final phase of a three-part program, according to the city. The first two phases were completed in 2024. Phase 3 targets Meadowbrook Drive, Oak Street, Cedar Drive, Redwood Drive, Merriman Drive, Ferndale Drive and Gayle Lane.

The city replaced water mains and made drainage improvements on those streets in preparation for roadway reconstruction. Crews will reclaim the existing roadway base and install new asphalt to extend pavement life. The phased approach lets the city focus construction on specific areas while limiting disruptions to residents.

$10.75 million utility financing

Council approved a Notice of Intent to issue Certificates of Obligation, or COs, in an amount not to exceed $10.75 million for water and wastewater infrastructure work. COs are a financing tool Highland Village has used before for utility projects.

Proposed projects include water and sewer line replacements, new waterlines along Brooks Court and in the city's northwest section, reconstruction of the Lake Vista Well to boost capacity from 300,000 gallons per day to one million gallons per day, replacement of the Copperas Branch Lake Lift Station and lift station generator upgrades.

The well dates to the 1960s.

The lift station, located behind Doubletree Ranch Park, is more than 30 years old, according to the city's Capital Improvement Projects page.

The COs would be funded through utility revenues. Public notices are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17 and Saturday, Oct. 24.

Council is expected to consider final authorization on Dec. 8, with funding anticipated by Dec. 29. The $10.75 million is a ceiling that may be reduced based on updated project needs, available funding and market conditions.

$75,000 scoreboard donation

Council approved a gift agreement with Bryan and Robyn Adams for a $75,000 donation to replace five baseball and softball scoreboards at Unity Park. The donation covers removal of the old boards, installation and electrical work.

The new scoreboards will feature the INTEGRITY logo and the Highland Village Area Baseball and Softball Association (HVABSA) logo. The Adams family will be recognized with a commemorative plaque or similar display. Once installed, the scoreboards become city property and are expected to last 15 to 20 years.

Mayor Charlotte Wilcox also proclaimed October as Say No to Bullying Month during the meeting's mayor and council reports.

The full meeting is available for on-demand viewing on the city's website and YouTube channel.