The Houston City Council approved revamped plans Monday to gain an okay from the Federal Aviation Administration for a new water tower at the Houston Industrial Park.
Ray West of White River Engineering of Springfield presented the plans, and the council approved a shorter tank that includes a hydraulic pump system. When completed, the tank will be less than 135 feet tall to meet FAA requirements. The Houston Memorial Airport is north of the industrial site at North Industrial Drive and West Highway 17.
The estimated $1.1 million project will be paid largely through grants obtained by the city. Two earlier awards total about $400,000-$500,000, and the city hopes to secure another that brings the total to about $800,000. The council — while earlier including the tower in its 2015 budget — decided to contribute another $65,000 from reserves to allow the project to proceed.
Engineering and the letting of bids may occur this fall, said City Administrator Larry Sutton.
In other matters, members:
—Decided city ordinances prohibit businesses operating in homes. It took no action on a request from Patti Rust.
—Heard from Randee Cary, who urged not blocking access to the Houston Farmers Market during community events. It is operates Tuesdays and Fridays at Lone Star Plaza.
—Discussed the possibility of the community attracting a cyclist hostel to capitalize on bicyclists who pedal through the community during the year. Don Munson made a presentation, and zoning was discussed.
—Received an update on an ordinance that would spell out the relationship between Houston Parks and Recreation Department and the City of Houston, including the scope of services provided and division of revenues. A city committee and the park board have been working on the governance document. The city’s legal counsel will review it before final action by the council.
—Heard that the city’s financial picture was positive in the first five months of the year.
—Delayed action on a bill that would detail the use of ATVs, UTVs and golf carts on city streets.