After discussing the measure over the past few months, the City of Hudson Oaks has agreed to become part of an agency to help Parker County better address its potential water shortages in years to come.
Hudson Oaks joins Weatherford, Willow Park, Brock, Annetta, and Parker County, among others, in approving a resolution.
City Manager Sterling Naron summarized previous presentations by both Jessica Brown, vice president of Water/Wastewater Planning from Freese and Nichols, and Parker County Commissioner Larry Walden, about the need for the Parker County Public Utility Agency (PCPUA).
“This is a regionalized effort to create a better water infrastructure for the county as a whole,” Naron said, reiterating Hudson Oaks has no immediate threat to its water supply. “While we sit in a good spot today, that doesn’t mean long-term water reliability in 30-40 years.”
Of note is Parker County drilled the most wells in the state from 2003-2025 with 15,488. Wise County was the next closest at 7,578. Hudson Oaks, specifically, has more than 700 of those domestic wells within two miles of its city limits.
Naron then talked about next steps if, and when, the PCPUA is formed, starting with the establishment of by-laws. He also cautioned that with the PCPUA and bringing in additional water supply, there is a potential for unrestricted development outside of any of the participating cities’ corporate boundaries but the same risk exists with or without the agency.
Cost for joining the PCPUA varies depending on population; for Hudson Oaks it is $15,000 annually, until such time as the agency becomes self-sufficient. Naron said the amount was already incorporated into the upcoming 2026-27 budget.
“It’s a big step for Parker County,” Naron said. “Getting in early reduces our costs substantially as opposed to waiting until there is a problem.”
Council unanimously approved adoption of the resolution.
Also during the meeting the 2026-27 budget was adopted after a public hearing was held. Director of Operations Lara Brown said the annual budget included a “conservative” approach despite the city’s growth.
Expenditures are estimated at $6.325 million and considers the purchase of new vehicles for the police department and public works, city beautification efforts, two new positions and a “step pay” increase to “remain competitive” with other cities. “Despite increased costs, [the budget allows us] to maintain and not suffer costs,” Brown said.
After no one spoke during the hearing council unanimously approved the budget.
Additionally, council:
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