Amarillo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Amarillo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Water Utility Rates and Long-Term Water Resources
The council signaled it will hold the approved 11% water rate increase until the billing mess is fixed, while the sewer increase takes effect November 1. Members weighed conservation tiers, bond requirements, and future wastewater plant costs.
Part 150 Noise Study and Community Programs
Updates were presented on the Part 150 noise study to address community noise impacts and the Taking Flight program.
PROTECT Grant Program Application Support
Local leaders will consider supporting a federal grant application aimed at making Amarillo's transportation infrastructure more resilient to weather and natural hazards.
Wastewater Spill
Amarillo just had a massive 750,000-gallon wastewater spill near E. Amarillo Creek, forcing emergency repairs. It’s a messy situation that makes you wonder how well the city's aging infrastructure is actually holding up.
Environmental Concerns (Power Plant)
A citizen group raised concerns about the environmental impact of a proposed large natural gas power plant, citing potential exceedances of air pollution standards and inadequate public notice.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion Planning
The city is moving forward with engineering agreements for expanding the Hollywood and River Road wastewater treatment facilities to handle future population growth over the next five to six years.