The commissioners approved an updated scope for Phase 1 of a ranch water project to provide a water well, pump, storage tank and associated treatment for the Tecolote community. County staff said the project uses multiple funding sources, including a $1.2 million Community Projects grant secured with help from Congresswoman Dela Cruzs office and coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The judge said the engineer has procured bids for the well, pump and tank and the scope changes were approved to keep the project within the $1.2 million budget.

Because title issues prevented straightforward acquisition of a preferred 1.9-acre parcel, the court authorized County Judge Pedro Pitrevino Jr. to retain outside counsel to institute condemnation (eminent domain) proceedings. County staff and commissioners explained the parcel has four owners (one owner holds 62.5%); the court said it would pay the available owner her share and deposit the remaining shares into the court registry in case absent owners later claim them.

Commissioners asked questions about the exact land area needed for equipment and whether the county could use other county-owned property; staff said the selected tract best met grant and site requirements and that they will report back with further documentation and bid information. The court approved both the scope update and authorization to pursue condemnation to secure the site.

Next steps: The county will retain outside counsel to begin condemnation proceedings, complete the EPA- and grant-required documentation, and return with bid and acquisition details for further commissioner review.