In a move that defies the expectations of city officials, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has ordered the Liberty Hill Wastewater Treatment Plant to significantly reduce the amount of phosphorus it dumps into the San Gabriel River. Citing concerns over rampant algae growth hindering recreational use, the TCEQ's ruling demands a drop in phosphorus levels from .15 milligrams per liter to an astonishing .02 milligrams per liter, according to a report by The Austin American Statesman.

The decision comes after years of legal battle initiated by residents along the river, who claimed that the excessive algae resulting from the wastewater discharge breached state water quality standards, impacting fishing and swimming activities. While the city is reviewing the ruling and likely to appeal, according to attorney Rudy Metayer, the TCEQ insists that the evidence supports the need to quickly enforce a much stricter standard. Metayer, expressing dismay, stated, "We are absolutely shocked and dismayed that the TCEQ has decided to blow up its own rules and procedures, not follow the facts, data, and science to demand an unprecedented standard that has no basis in reality," as quoted in a statement obtained by The Austin American Statesman.

Lauren Ice, the attorney representing some of the aggrieved residents, welcomed the TCEQ's order as a victory for science and the local community. According to The Austin American Statesman, Ice said, "The decision feels like a vindication on behalf of the science and on behalf of the downstream neighbors." She also indicated readiness to ensure the city meets the new regulation.

The impact of the ruling extends beyond the environment; it hits the booming city's operations. Facing an exponential population surge to 9,099 in 2022 from 967 in 2010, Liberty Hill officials worry the ruling will saddle the city with excessive compliance challenges. Despite no definitive compliance deadline set by TCEQ, Chairman Jon Niermann admitted the new phosphorus limit is going to be a difficult target for Liberty Hill to hit anytime soon, during an interview with KVUE.

Local residents Dave and Louise Bunnell have been at the forefront of pushing for this change. Dave Bunnell expressed cautious optimism in the wake of the TCEQ decision while remarking on the long road ahead to ensure compliance. He informed KVUE "That's our biggest concern is Liberty Hill has not shown a willingness to be compliant in the past. Will they be compliant with this new phosphorus level?" Bunnell also noted the potential for proven methods to reach the lowered level, including advanced clearance technology and maximizing permits for reuse.