Many residents have asked about the continued closure of Jim Walters Drive following the roadway washout that occurred several months ago. We understand this closure has been frustrating for those who regularly travel this route, and we appreciate the community’s patience as the City works toward a safe solution.   Following the washout, the City requested an evaluation from the County Engineer to determine the proper repair needed to safely restore the roadway and prevent future failures.   Based on that engineering assessment, the repair will require the installation of two 10-foot by 10-foot concrete culverts placed side-by-side in order to safely handle the volume of water that moves through this drainage area during heavy rain events.   The City has obtained an initial quote for the culverts themselves:   Concrete Culverts: $115,091.40   This amount covers only the culverts and does not include several additional components required to complete the repair, including: ·       Gravel base and structural materials ·       Crane rental needed to place the culverts ·       Equipment and labor ·       Roadway reconstruction and stabilization   When all required elements of the project are considered, the total project cost will be significantly higher than the culvert quote alone.   Infrastructure repairs of this type must also meet engineering standards and safety regulations designed to ensure the roadway can safely handle future rain events and prevent repeated washouts. Because of these requirements, this situation cannot be addressed with a quick temporary fix.   At this time, the City does not have funds currently allocated for this project, and City Council is evaluating possible options and funding pathways moving forward.   Until a permanent repair solution can be implemented, Jim Walters Drive will remain closed for public safety.   Updates will be provided to residents as additional information becomes available.   For questions, please contact Runaway Bay City Hall at 940-575-4745.

Over the past few weeks, the City of Runaway Bay has been made aware of several social media videos and photos showing city infrastructure in various states of condition. It is very difficult for the city to determine whether the videos are accurate or whether the situations shown are actually in Runaway Bay or related to known current issues. Some of the issues have been located, verified, and corrected. Other photos that have been posted have been determined to be aged based on additional information shown in the same photo. If you see or know of any infrastructure issues, please contact City Hall so we can address them. Do not assume that because it is on social media, the city is aware of the issue. Also, please do not approach any open manholes, lift stations, or other city infrastructure, as there may be hidden hazards that can and will harm you. A good rule of thumb is that if you feel it is important enough to post on social media, it is important enough to contact City Hall and inform the individuals who can make the needed repairs. There have also been social media posts brought to our attention of an individual approaching city-owned equipment and facilities and physically handling elements of it while talking solely to elicit viewer reaction. If you feel that you must make these videos, that is your right as an American citizen. We ask that you also contact City Hall so the city staff can determine the appropriate course of action or repair. However, some actions described and witnessed in those social media posts may be considered "tampering with city infrastructure". At this time, we do not believe the actions witnessed in those videos were intended to cause intentional harm to these facilities or sites. However, if an individual is witnessed, filmed, or found causing or attempting to cause harm to any city infrastructure facility or connected appurtenances (i.e., manholes, lift stations, fire hydrants, etc.), they may be subject to prosecution under state and federal laws. If, at any time, you witness anyone near any city facility or other related infrastructure who is not actively working on the facility or system or acting suspiciously, please call City Hall or 911. Each report will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly. All city, state, and federal infrastructure facilities and associated appurtenances (Water, wastewater, electric, and natural gas) across the United States are classified as “Critical Infrastructure” and fall under the protective purview of the United States Department of Homeland Security. Convictions for any interference or tampering with these sites could result in up to a third-degree felony in Texas and may trigger FBI involvement and filing of additional federal charges, which may result in possible imprisonment and/or fines. If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact City Hall. Roddy Boston Consulting Operator/RAB Task Force

February 23, 2026 – Regular Session Public Forum   Sheila Carillo addressed Council regarding ongoing sewer backup concerns on Tryall Court. Key points discussed: Concern about a nearby manhole and lift station Questions about recent rain event impacts Request to explore trenching or diversion options away from private property Lift station light blinking – concern it may not be functioning properly   Cindy Fuller requested that the City consider adopting an ordinance addressing political yard signs, as there is currently no specific local ordinance. Discussion included: Municipalities must adopt their own ordinances if they wish to regulate signage within city limits Reference was made to 90-day signage timelines under state guidelines Consent Items   Minutes from January 20, 2026 Regular Session (Correction made to date before approval.) Approved Consideration & Action Items   A. Accounts Payable Report – January 31, 2026   Accepted   Notable infrastructure-related items included: OmniTech Controls – SCADA system upgrades (SCADA monitors and controls water/wastewater operations.) Golf Ball Water Tower Renovations B. January 2026 Financial Report   Accepted   Highlights: Sales tax revenue currently trending lower than projected (27% vs. 33% benchmark at this point in the fiscal year) Expenditures are also trending lower than projected C. Settlement Agreement & Easement   Approved   Council approved the Settlement Agreement and related easement between the City of Runaway Bay and Bay Community Church.   Barry Schimpf addressed Council and offered a gracious statement, acknowledging that both the Church and the City shared responsibility for the delays surrounding the issue. He expressed appreciation for the work done to reach a resolution and encouraged everyone to “put it to rest” and move forward together.   Following the approval, the room responded with applause. The occasion was marked with celebratory poppers and confetti filled the Civic Center.   The agreement formally resolves the matter and allows the Church to move forward with the construction of their Children’s Building. D. RH Borden BasinIQ System Update   Roddy Boston provided an update regarding the recent storm event and introduced the proposed RH Borden BasinIQ system as part of the City’s long-term wastewater strategy. Storm Event – What Happened   During February’s heavy rain event: The system became overwhelmed Rainwater carried dirt, sediment, and debris into the collection system This created a thick slurry at lift stations Pumps were unable to properly convey flow due to obstructions Some manholes overflowed because of blockages   Select Energy Services was brought in to assist. Crews worked through the evening to: Empty lift stations Clear slurry buildup Remove obstructions Restore plant operations   After a few days, the Port O’Call South lift station temporarily stopped responding due to a hose that became loose. It was re-anchored and the station was restored. Lift Station Design & Regulatory Requirements   Additional information shared during discussion: TCEQ requires two pumps per lift station The Port O’Call South station currently operates with one and is in the process of redesign Stations must be engineered to meet Texas Administrative Code requirements Redesign work takes time and must follow regulatory standards Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and three-phase power systems improve efficiency and reliability   Council discussed how some stations are connected in a “daisy chain,” meaning one station impacts the next, which can compound system stress during heavy rain. Understanding I&I (Inflow & Infiltration)   Roddy explained: Inflow = stormwater entering through manholes Infiltration = groundwater entering through defects (example: holes or cracks in pipes)   Brick and mortar manholes (which the City has many) are especially vulnerable to stormwater intrusion.   Runaway Bay’s system includes: Approximately 35 miles of pipe Around 300 manholes (many brick & mortar) 17 lift stations/basins   Heavy rain can rapidly increase flow volume well beyond normal daily averages. What BasinIQ Would Do   The RH Borden BasinIQ system would: Integrate system data into one platform Create virtual models of manholes Map inflow/infiltration trends Guide field crews efficiently Assist with regulatory compliance Provide better data for grant applications Move the City from reactive to proactive planning   It would also allow comparison of historical flow data before and after improvements.   The goal is to better identify problem basins and prioritize rehabilitation through the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Council Questions & Discussion Highlights What is the cost? Proposed not-to-exceed amount: $345,000 (Includes components such as virtual manhole modeling and field work.) How would it be paid for? City obtained a $2 million line of credit so monies are earmarked. This upgrade is eligible for grant reimbursement. Bigger Picture   Other cities experience significant sanitary sewer overflows over time.   The discussion emphasized: Understanding each basin individually Using GIS mapping Field investigations Reducing customer complaints Protecting infrastructure investments E. Proposed Project Agreement – RH Borden   Approved   Council approved the proposed Project Agreement between the City of Runaway Bay and RH Borden. F. Order of Election 2026   Approved   Council approved the Order of Election for the upcoming May 2026 General Election. This action formally calls the election in accordance with state law. Updates   Richard Griffin (EDC) Reported that the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) continues efforts to host monthly bingo events Noted 501(c) coordination efforts Encouraged residents with ideas for additional community events to contact Phil Reicheneker at phil@shredderzshop.com Carolyn Moody (Cemetery Board) The Cemetery Board has received an application for a new member, Marisol Mogus. The application will be reviewed and submitted to Council for approval. At the upcoming Thursday meeting, the Board will discuss: Moving forward with the butterfly garden Landscaping along the side entrance using succulents (due to lack of water access) Memory bricks A possible fall fundraiser Approaching Council regarding either an increase in plot fees or a separate maintenance fee at the time plots are sold (currently in discussion stages) The Cemetery grounds recently sustained damage from wild hogs, which is being addressed. A broken fence was also discovered; it is not yet confirmed whether this was caused by hog activity. Minutes from the Thursday meeting will be provided once finalized.   Christopher Petty (Fire Department) Fire Department remains active and continues responding to lower call volume 17 calls reported, including 1 accident   Steve Reynolds (Police Department) 25 citations issued 54 warnings 4 animal-related calls 1 accident reported   Steve Holt (Greater Runaway Bay Alliance) Shared there is no formal GRBA update at this time Mentioned GRBA is working on something special for the community (details forthcoming) Public Works Update   Ryan Halligen has a Grade B license and has been with the City approximately six months and indicated he is available to answer questions.   Ryan gave an update on our water system, explaining what caused the recent issues, what has already been fixed, and what improvements are now in place to keep our water safe and reliable. SCADA System & Operations   (SCADA monitors and controls water/wastewater operations.) The SCADA system being implemented is the same system used in Decatur Integration between water and wastewater plant operations is ongoing Goal is improved monitoring and fewer late regulatory notices Sampling procedures have been corrected TCEQ was notified in November as part of corrective actions, but did not hear back until February City is continuing to address legacy issues dating back to 2022 What Caused the Recent Water Quality Issues?   Recent elevated levels of TTHM and HAA5 (disinfection byproducts) were traced to an operational issue at the treatment plant.   In simple terms: When chlorine mixes with natural organic material in water, it can create byproducts. During clarifier flushing, chemical feed continued when it should have been paused, which contributed to higher byproduct formation and elevated turbidity (cloudiness). Additionally, sampling for compliance reporting was being conducted in incorrect locations, which led to inaccurate reporting data. These issues were identified and corrected. What Has Been Fixed?   The following corrective actions have been completed: Chemical feed is now paused during clarifier flushing to prevent improper mixing Sampling locations have been corrected to meet TCEQ requirements TCEQ has been notified, and the prior reporting violation has been cleared Turbidity has been addressed through improved maintenance, proper chemical dosing, and increased filter backwashing Chemical lines are now properly labeled Backflow prevention was installed and tested in compliance with TCEQ Water tower signage has been installed as required A hatch seal that was not sealing properly has been replaced Recent Testing Results   Independent laboratory results show that corrective actions are reducing disinfection byproduct levels.   TTHM and HAA5 sample results are currently within acceptable ranges. Final verification remains pending with LCRA. Additional Operational Improvements A frozen LAS (Liquid Ammonium Sulfate) line in January temporarily impacted removal ratios. The issue was immediately resolved The waste lagoon is undergoing TCEQ approval to authorize discharge of treated effluent into the lake. This is expected to resolve alleged air gap concerns and eliminate potential cross-connection issues Quarterly maintenance is now scheduled for all mechanical systems to ensure long-term reliability Calibration services were transitioned to a new provider, resulting in approximately $4,000 in annual savings and improved performance Flushing practices have been enhanced to improve disinfectant residuals throughout the system A new SCADA system is being installed to modernize plant controls. The previous legacy system was incompatible with the new infrastructure. Existing PLCs are being upgraded to support new chemical pumps and level controls Looking Ahead   The new water plant has been online since September 2025.   The City will also be submitting a water sample to the Texas Rural Water Association (TRWA) this year to compete for Best Tasting Water in Texas. Mayor’s Update   Freese & Nichols / USACE Agreement Freese & Nichols representatives will be present for the March City Council meeting The U.S. Army Corps Commander has officially signed the agreement, marking a major milestone in the project Emphasized that the City should be proud of securing this project Noted that Runaway Bay is one of only 32 cities nationwide and one of just 3 in Texas included in this program Successfully negotiated with the Army Corps for the City’s financial structure to be administered monthly rather than quarterly, improving cash flow management Meeting with Congressman Ronny Jackson’s office this week to discuss the potential for an additional $7 million in grant funding for 2027 Community Update The Mayor expressed appreciation to the City Council and all those who have contributed to the infrastructure project, acknowledging the collective effort that brought the City to this point In a notable moment of civility, the Mayor expressed appreciation for those involved in the effort, including Sam Berry, and the two shook hands The Mayor also addressed hurtful statements circulating in the community, stating that hateful rhetoric is not condoned. He emphasized the importance of working together constructively for the benefit of Runaway Bay February City Council Agenda   Infrastructure Status Report

Residents Asked to Help Protect Aging Sewer Infrastructure   The City of Runaway Bay continues to experience sewer system blockages - some of which are preventable and caused by improper materials being flushed into the wastewater system.   Recently, Public Works crews responded to another lift station obstruction caused by diapers, wipes, rags, and other non-flushable materials. These items accumulate inside pumps and pipes, causing mechanical failures and increasing the risk of sewer backups. (Video and photos below.)   Runaway Bay’s wastewater infrastructure includes components that are more than 60 years old. While the City is actively pursuing and implementing infrastructure upgrades, the current system remains vulnerable to damage from improper disposal practices.   When non-flushable items enter the system: Pumps can fail Emergency repairs are required Maintenance costs increase Risk of overflows and backups rises   Residents are reminded that the only materials suitable for flushing are human waste and toilet paper.   Items that should NEVER be flushed include: Diapers Baby wipes (including products labeled “flushable”) Cleaning wipes Paper towels Rags or cloth materials Feminine hygiene products   Protecting our infrastructure is a shared responsibility. The City appreciates the cooperation of residents in helping maintain the reliability and safety of our wastewater system. City Hall is always available for any questions or concerns.

I want residents to have accurate information about the heavy rain event and its impact on the City’s wastewater system. Runaway Bay’s Consulting Wastewater and Collections Operator, Roddy Boston, prepared the following report to provide a clear explanation of what occurred, and the actions being taken.   Respectfully, Mayor Herman White           On Saturday, February 14, 2026, heavy rain fell across the county, with 1 to 2.5 inches recorded in a short period. Heavy rain inundated our collection system, allowing large amounts of sediment to travel to the wastewater treatment plant via the collection lines.   This sediment consists of sand, grit, and small debris that is found in similar collection systems across the state. Saturday afternoon, rainwater from inflow and infiltration entered the collection system, and sediment was deposited in the lift station at the wastewater treatment plant, causing the pumps conveying water into the plant to fail. There was a spill of wastewater originating from the wastewater plant. It is still being cleaned, and the immediate area is being disinfected.   Crews responded accordingly and attempted to pull the pumps to clear the obstruction. After multiple hours of attempting to repair the pumps, including installing a new pump, the City contacted Select Energy Services to bring 2 pump trucks to remove the lift station's contents and clear all sediment and materials that had entered it. Select Energy Services has partnered with the city on previous projects and responded with trucks on-site within 2 hours of the call for assistance.   The plant is now fully operational and treating wastewater once again.   During the rain event, the volume of stormwater entering the system caused several manholes in some neighborhoods to overflow. These overflows were and are being caused by the same style of sediment and debris that affected the Wastewater treatment plant.   We are systematically working through the overflows to close each one. The lines will be cleared of obstruction, and the immediate areas where the spill has occurred will be cleaned and disinfected. We are working from the furthest points outward and heading toward the treatment plant. This will allow us to remove debris as we move on, preventing it from moving into the next section of the city.   The flow makeup of this water, even though it comes from the collection system, is very heavily diluted with stormwater. There remains an abundance of groundwater beneath the immediate surface that is infiltrating the collection system through the walls of manholes and will continue to do so for the next few days.   During this period, as city crews respond to numerous calls, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any overflowing manholes to City Hall.   We have been in contact with TCEQ, informed them of our issues, and they are working with us to mitigate these events. We have also been in contact with the Tarrant Regional Water District, and they have been eager to assist with progress and mitigation.   If you have any questions about the events from this past weekend, please contact City Hall.   Roddy Boston Consulting Wastewater and Collections Operator

The City of Runaway Bay has received questions about whether it operates under a “strong-mayor” form of government. To provide clarification, the City requested a written legal opinion from Brown & Hofmeister, LLP. The attached letter confirms that Runaway Bay does NOT operate under a strong-mayor form of government. Runaway Bay is a Type A General Law municipality governed by Chapter 22 of the Texas Local Government Code. Under Texas law, strong-mayor systems are found only in home-rule cities. As outlined in the attorney’s opinion, Runaway Bay does not have, and under state law cannot implement , a strong-mayor form of government. The letter also explains that when the City Council previously chose not to retain a city administrator, an ordinance was approved allowing the Mayor to assume certain administrative duties for day-to-day operations. This does not create or convert the City into a strong-mayor system. For full context, the complete legal opinion is included. As always, residents with additional questions are encouraged to contact City Hall. I am an advocate for every resident and available to address any concern directly. Respectfully, Mayor Herman White City Of Runaway Bay

The City of Runaway Bay will hold a General Election on Saturday, May 2, 2026. The filing period has closed, and the following candidates have filed for a place on the ballot: Mayor • Herman White • Sam Berry City Council – Place 2 • Richard Griffin City Council – Place 4 • Phil Reicheneker We appreciate the willingness of these individuals to serve our community.

Residents of Runaway Bay,   The City has received questions regarding the status of federal grant funding for wastewater infrastructure projects. Because federal infrastructure funding follows a structured, multi-step process, I want to provide clear information so our residents understand exactly where the City stands.   The information below reflects official correspondence from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the City’s engineering partners. Has Runaway Bay been awarded federal funding?   Yes.   The City of Runaway Bay has been:   • Awarded $1.75 million in EPA STAG (Clean Water State Revolving Fund) Community Project Funding • Awarded $6.7 million through the USACE Section 5138 Texas Environmental Infrastructure Program • Approved for an additional $1 million in EPA Community Project Funding (January 2026)   These awards were authorized through federal appropriations and signed into law.   Additionally:   • The EPA has approved the City’s application and scope of work. • The USACE District Commander approved the Section 5138 Letter Report on November 20, 2025. • The Project Partnership Agreement (PPA) has been transmitted for signatures and is now in its final execution phase.   These are formal federal milestones. If the grant is awarded, why hasn’t money been received yet?   Federal infrastructure grants are reimbursement-based, not advance payments.   This means:   • The City does not receive funds upfront. • Funds are requested only after eligible project costs are incurred and paid. • Documentation is submitted in phases as engineering and construction progress.   This is standard federal procedure. Not receiving funds at this stage is expected and compliant. What is the current status?   EPA STAG Program   • Application approved • Scope of work approved • Engineering underway • Eligible pre-award work is reimbursable   USACE Section 5138 Program   • Letter Report approved by District Commander • Project Partnership Agreement transmitted for signature • Funding anticipated to be available beginning in the 2nd Quarter of 2026   Once the PPA is fully executed, projects will move into formal implementation phases. Some federal forms show “not submitted” or “not yet completed.” Is that a problem?   No.   Many federal reporting forms (including reimbursement requests, financial certifications, and EFT documentation) are not required until construction and invoicing phases.   These forms:   • Cannot be submitted before costs exist • Are triggered by specific federal milestones • Would be inappropriate to file prematurely   Their absence reflects timing - not noncompliance. Does “not yet submitted” mean the grant is incomplete or invalid?   No.   Federal infrastructure funding follows clearly defined phases: Congressional Authorization / Award – Completed Agency Review & Compliance – Completed / Ongoing Engineering & Environmental – Ongoing Construction & Reimbursement – Upcoming   Documents required in later phases do not yet exist by design. Can the City legally draw funds right now?   No.   Federal law prohibits drawing funds before eligible expenses are incurred and approved. Attempting to do so would be improper.   The City is following the required federal sequence. Has the City misrepresented the status of the funding?   No.   Statements that the City has:   • "Secured federal funding" • "Been awarded grants" • "Is moving forward with federally funded wastewater improvements"   are accurate and supported by federal documentation. Why does the process take time?   Large federal wastewater infrastructure projects require:   • Engineering design • Environmental review • Coordination with EPA, USACE, and TCEQ • Compliance documentation • Formal execution of partnership agreements • Reimbursement sequencing   These safeguards protect taxpayers and ensure projects are completed responsibly and correctly. What happens next?   The City will:   • Finalize execution of the USACE Project Partnership Agreement • Continue engineering and compliance work under EPA approval • Begin eligible project implementation • Submit reimbursement requests as costs are incurred • Provide updates as milestones are achieved Final Clarification   The absence of certain forms does not indicate a problem. It indicates the City is following the federally required process. The City of Runaway Bay remains in full compliance and continues to move forward under approved federal funding programs. As always, I believe facts matter. The attached email provides additional confirmation of the City's current funding status.   If you have additional questions, please contact City Hall.   Respectfully,   Mayor Herman White City of Runaway Bay

Following the February 3, 2026 City Council Workshop and Special Session, the City of Runaway Bay and Bay Community Church reached a framework agreement regarding the City’s main raw water intake line located beneath Church property. The discussion focused on preserving long-term water reliability for residents while allowing the Church’s construction project to move forward in a responsible manner. This workshop was intended for information sharing and discussion between City Council and Church representatives and did not include a public forum.   Background and History   • The City’s primary raw water intake line from Lake Bridgeport runs beneath what is now Bay Community Church property. • This line was installed in the early 1980s and was referenced in the property records when the Church acquired the land. • No formal and recorded utility easement was filed at the time of installation. • As was common in many small communities during earlier infrastructure development, some utility lines were constructed without modern easement documentation. • The City currently operates and maintains the line but does not have a recorded easement granting permanent legal access. Construction Activity and Early Coordination   • In 2023, the Church began construction related to an expansion project. • The City temporarily required work to pause to locate and protect underground utilities. • At the Church’s request, excavation work was postponed until after the Church’s Easter services. • B&R Utility Services was hired by the City to locate and reroute water service to businesses east of the Church property. • This work required multiple test excavations on and around Church property. • B&R identified a 6-inch water main serving businesses east of the Church and determined a separate 4-inch line could be removed. • B&R invoiced the City $26,315.91, which was paid by the City.  • The City advised the Church that agreement to a 40 ft water intake easement would allow the City to maintain and repair utilities. • The requested width aligns with industry standards for: Safe trenching Heavy equipment access Emergency repair operations • A professional land survey was completed to define the proposed easement area, totaling 17,303 square feet (0.40 acres). • Federal and state infrastructure programs generally require documented easements before approving water system funding. • The City indicated it would fund new service taps if required due to the Church’s expansion: One tap for the Church One tap for Lodge Condominiums • The estimated cost for both taps was $4,000 total. • The Church currently pays $500 per year for a covered picnic area that was constructed on City property. • The City indicated this lease fee could be reduced to $1 per year if an easement agreement were reached.   Engineering Review of Relocation Option   • The City retained Hayter Engineering to evaluate the feasibility of relocating the intake line. • The review considered abandoning the existing 12-inch raw water line and constructing a new 16-inch line around the Church property.   Key points from the September 19, 2025 Hayter Engineering review: • The estimate is preliminary and conceptual in nature. • A new 16-inch line would be routed along Blake Drive and the TxDOT right-of-way. • Upsizing was recommended to avoid additional pressure loss and pump upgrades.   Estimated construction cost only: $332,242   Summary of the Agreement Framework   Based on the discussion during the special session, the following terms were agreed to in concept:   • The Church will grant the City a 40-foot permanent utility easement over the existing raw water intake line, which allows sufficient space for City maintenance and emergency repairs • No additional water lines, sewer lines, or new utilities will be installed within the easement area • The City will reinstate the Church’s building permit, allowing construction of the children’s building to proceed     Provisions Related to Future Relocation   The agreement also addresses potential future scenarios:   • If the City determines at a later date that relocation of the main water intake line is necessary, the Church will grant an additional 40-foot easement on the east side of the property for the relocated line • Upon relocation of the line, the original easement beneath the Church property would be dissolved • If the Church proposes future expansion that requires relocation of the intake line, the Church’s building plans would include provisions to help offset relocation costs   No relocation of the intake line is currently planned or approved.   Outcome of the Special Session   • The City will receive a 40 ft easement to access main water intake • The Church will receive reinstatement of its building permit • The City will retain adequate access for maintenance and emergency response • The agreement establishes clear expectations for future infrastructure decisions  • Final legal documents will be prepared consistent with the agreed framework • Construction related to the Church’s children’s building may proceed under the reinstated permit   City Focus   The City of Runaway Bay remains focused on:   • Maintaining reliable water service • Managing infrastructure responsibly • Preserving access for maintenance and emergency response • Providing factual information and maintaining clear documentation for long-term infrastructure planning This framework agreement reflects the City’s commitment to problem-solving, collaboration, and stewardship of critical infrastructure for the benefit of the entire community.   Questions   Residents may contact Runaway Bay City Hall for additional information.

Regular Session | January 20, 2026 1. Public Forum ·       Cindy Fuller announced that the Carter BloodCare Blood Drive will now be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10am-3pm at the Civic Center. Contact Carolyn Dent  carolyndent75@gmail.com    for more information. Blood drive flyer is located at the bottom of recap. ·       Pansy Green encouraged the City to send out text alerts to notify residents of the Runaway Bay Bulletin  www.runawaybaybulletin.com   to ensure more residents receive accurate and timely City information. 2. Consent Items ·       Approve Minutes from the December 16, 2025 Regular Session - Approved ·       Accounts Payable (December 31, 2025) - Approved ·       December 2025 Financial Report - Approved 3. Updates from Mayor and Council Members ·       Todd Low | Parks & Recreation Reported that the parks are looking great. Work continues on ball fields, with discussion of possibly adding a baseball team in the future. ·       Richard Griffin | Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Shared that the EDC is seeking community input on future events, including Smoke on the Water and other possible activities. Ideas discussed included adjusting event dates and exploring new options such as monthly bingo nights. Residents interested in volunteering or sharing ideas are encouraged to reach out to Phil Reicheneker at phil@shredderzshop.com ·       Carolyn Moody | Cemetery Board Reported that the Cemetery Board is making plans and preparations for spring maintenance and improvements. ·       Christopher Petty | Fire Department Reported 21 calls, 5 of those being fire and the rest medical. Residents were advised about the icy weather expected this Friday and reassured that the Fire Department will continue to respond to calls while using caution on unsafe road conditions. ·       Steve Reynolds | Police Department Reported: ·       100 citations issued – including code violations ·       2 felony arrests ·       74 warnings issued Chief Reynolds also noted that Public Works has made significant progress addressing water leaks and sewer issues, working late hours to complete projects. With leaks largely under control, crews are now focusing on pothole repairs. Overall conditions have improved considerably compared to prior years. ·       Mayor Herman White Provided a status update from Freese and Nichols Engineering regarding the City’s ongoing infrastructure projects. Mayor White explained that Runaway Bay has been formally awarded federal funding. Most funding operates under reimbursement-based programs, meaning the City pays eligible project costs upfront (through the City's $2 million line of credit) and then submits documentation for reimbursement as milestones are met. The funding is secured, but released in stages as projects progress. Mayor White also answered questions regarding the Runaway Bay Bulletin and encouraged residents to rely on official City sources for factual information. 📌 Coming Next: A follow-up post will further explain the grant funding process and provide a more detailed status report from Freese and Nichols Engineering.

I want to take a moment to provide residents with an update on the City’s ongoing wastewater infrastructure improvements. These efforts are part of a long-term plan to strengthen critical systems, meet regulatory requirements, and plan responsibly for the future.   The City’s work is supported by significant federal grant funding and ongoing coordination with our engineering firm, Freese and Nichols, as well as our Infrastructure Task Force. While infrastructure projects can be complex and take time, steady progress is being made.   Here’s a clear update on where things stand:   Federal Funding Secured   Runaway Bay has been awarded over $9.4 million in federal funding to support wastewater system improvements:   • $1.75 million: EPA STAG Clean Water funding (FY 2024) • $6.7 million: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 5138 Texas Environmental Infrastructure Program • $1 million: Additional EPA STAG funding awarded in January 2026   These funds were secured through the federal appropriations process with support from Congressman Ronnie Jackson. EPA Grant Status (Reimbursement Program)   The EPA STAG program operates as a reimbursement grant, meaning: • Eligible project costs are reimbursed at 80% federal / 20% local match • Funds can reimburse eligible work performed prior to final approval • The City must apply, meet federal requirements, and receive EPA approval before reimbursement begins   Key milestones: • EPA implementation guidance released mid-2024 • Freese and Nichols engaged by City Council in June 2025 • A comprehensive preliminary facility assessment was completed • The EPA has approved the City’s application and project scope • A second task order was approved in December 2025   Design work is now underway on: • WWTP Chlorine Building • Jim Walters Lift Station • Port O’Call Lift Station   The 50% design submittal for the Chlorine Building is scheduled for February 5, 2026.  Good News on Electrical Upgrades   Freese and Nichols also confirmed that Oncor’s upgrades to 3-phase power related to these facilities have been approved for reimbursement under the EPA grant program. US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Status   • The USACE approved Runaway Bay’s Section 5138 Letter Report in November 2025 • The City is finalizing the Project Partnership Agreement (PPA) • Federal funding is projected to become available in Q2 of 2026   Unlike the EPA program, USACE funding cannot reimburse work completed prior to final approval, which is why engineering work under this program will begin after funds are released.   Initial USACE-funded efforts are expected to include: • A comprehensive facility assessment • A long-term capital improvement plan • A rate study to support sustainable infrastructure planning What This Means for Residents   ✔️ Major federal funding is secured ✔️ Engineering work is actively underway ✔️ Projects are being prioritized based on professional assessments ✔️ The City is following federal compliance requirements ✔️ Long-term planning is focused on reliability, safety, and fiscal responsibility   This work is part of a multi-year effort to develop a responsible master plan for Runaway Bay’s infrastructure, focused on public health, regulatory compliance, and long-term reliability.   My goal is to ensure that today’s decisions are guided by careful planning, professional expertise, and fiscal responsibility,. With the support of our Infrastructure Task Force, engineering partners, and federal funding, we are taking deliberate steps to assess our systems, prioritize improvements, and plan responsibly.   I will continue to share updates as milestones are reached.   — Mayor Herman White

Good Afternoon, Runaway Bay!   My name is Roddy Boston and the Mayor added me to the Runaway Bay Public Works Task Force in 2023. I currently have an “A” Wastewater Treatment License and serve as Deputy Director of Public Works for Decatur.   Interesting Facts about your Wastewater Treatment Plant:   Capacity of the current plant: 400,000 gallons   A wastewater treatment plant's capacity isn’t determined by how much it can hold at any one time. It is determined by how much wastewater it can process in a 24-hour period.   The numbers used are the average of one month of your daily flows. Then we take 12 months of those averages to calculate the “Annual Average”.   TCEQ allows us to use the annual average to determine how much development you, as a city, can handle with the current facilities.   Using this averaging system, your plant is currently sitting at around 25% capacity.   The TCEQ rule for determining whether a wastewater plant is nearing, at, or above capacity is known as the 75/90 rule found in TAC Chapter 217.   At 75% capacity, your plant would process 300,000 gallons per day on an annual average. If this were the case, the city would need to be involved in engineering for an expansion of the existing plant or the construction of a brand-new plant.   At 90% capacity, your plant would process 360,000 gallons per day on an annual average. If this were the case, the city would need to be past engineering and under expansion or new construction for a new plant.   So, as you can see, at only 25% capacity, the city has plenty of room to expand, population-wise.   As you can imagine, using averages gives the city plenty of time to plan for and ready themselves for additional development.   Some people have seen the plant from the top and voiced their concern that it's running “full” and shouldn’t be.   Don’t listen to those people.   Wastewater plants are designed to run “full”. If not, then it wouldn’t properly treat the wastewater from one tank to the next.   That is probably more information than you thought you’d ever need to know about a wastewater treatment plant, but the more you know, the more informed you are!   More information to come!   If you have any additional questions, please let me know!   Roddy Boston