In a development that's raising the hackles of local environmentalists and residents alike, national company Lennar Homes is inching closer to the green light for a project that could see up to a million gallons of treated wastewater per day being discharged into Helotes Creek, located in northwest Bexar County. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) signaled its preliminary approval, stating Lennar’s plan "meets the requirements of applicable law," as reported by Express News. This creek feeds into a network of waterways before reaching the Edwards Aquifer, a vital source of drinking water for over 2 million people.
Amid apprehensions of potential water contamination, Annalisa Peace, executive director of the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance (GEAA), expressed grave concerns. "This water, if you release it into Helotes Creek, is recharging the Edwards Aquifer. Even if it’s traveling seven miles, [the wastewater effluent] doesn’t clean itself up. You are basically polluting our aquifer," Peace told KENS 5. Her reference keys into the underlying fear echoed by opposition groups that the effluent, despite being treated, may still carry harmful substances into the aquifer.
The proposed wastewater treatment plant is a sticking point in the Guajolote Ranch development of 2,900 homes on Scenic Loop Road and Babcock Road. The aforementioned wastewater facility has raised the ire of many, including state lawmakers and the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District. A TCEQ spokesperson claimed that the permit would include limits and conditions designed to shield both human health and aquatic life, but this has done little to mollify detractors. A reassessment or hearing on the matter can be sought by those in opposition until a deadline on February 12.
The issue is not merely the potential disruption to current aquatic life and drinking water standards but also the fear of so-called "emerging contaminants." Such elements include things like pharmaceuticals and what are called PFAS—pernicious chemicals that can amass over time in the environment. Michael Schick, a property owner neighboring the slated development, made his stance clear: "In my mind, it’s foolish, dangerous and irresponsible," Schick told Express News, illuminating a widespread concern that any latent health impacts could be irreversible.
