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SMITHVILLE
SMITHVILLE — Smithville leaders last week planned two meetings to discuss grievances filed against Mayor Sharon Foerster and potential upgrades for the wastewater treatment plant, though dates have not been set.
City Council agreed March 9 to call a special meeting to address a complaint against Foerster accusing her of violating the city’s ethics policy. Council members said they will review the accusation and decide whether to pursue further action or dismiss the claim.
Though the mayor’s hearing must be held as part of a public meeting, according to officials, it does not need to be open to community members. The council decided to hold the discussion during executive session at a future date.
The meeting will be separate from a public hearing with Energy Systems Group (ESG) representatives, set to review the wastewater treatment facility’s expansion before a decision is made on phase two of the project.
The council heard from ESG Development Leader Jim Johnston during last week’s meeting. He said conceptual design work for the plant is complete and addresses the shortfall in its current capacity.
“It needs to be able to meet the city’s needs,” Johnston said.
Johnston presented ESG’s plan to match future growth while also providing citywide benefits. Financial obligations were covered, including how the city could increase revenue by selling sludge from the facility.
In response to community concerns, Johnston said he would provide answers for any questions in the public forum. “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” said resident Haley Nunn, who also works in the water and wastewater industry.
The public hearing may not be held until next month, officials said.
All Smithville City Council meetings can be attended in person at City Hall, 317 Main St., or streamed online at ci.smithville.tx.us/189/ City-Council.
