Author: PGMUD

Report from Fire Chief Joe Woolley, PGVFD

Nothing big or out of the ordinary, Normal medical calls, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Fire/Medical Alarms.

• 90 calls for emergency service
• 59 calls were located in Pecan Grove
• 19 calls were located in Waterside
• 9 calls were located in Harvest Green
• 2 calls were located outside of our district
• 1 call was to mutual aid another agency

We have resumed in person training and meetings within CDC guidelines.

We would like to thank the community for their efforts in stopping the spread of the virus. Staying home, wearing face coverings and avoiding gatherings of 10 or more really helps us serve you.

Remember, if you experience a medical issue and feel like you need to be checked out, DO NOT wait to call because you’re afraid of the reports of the hospital situations. We will respond along with Fort Bend County EMS and evaluate your situation. If you do not need to go to the hospital, we will let you know. However, if it is serious and you do need to go, you will be transported. The important message here is don’t wait until it is too late.

In an effort to bring in some of our fundraiser dollars, we have put together a BBQ Rib sale. See below screen shot from PGVFD’s website.

We are selling a rack of ribs cooked and vacuum sealed by Harlem Road BBQ for $30.00 each. The packages vary in weight between 2.7 and 3.5 pounds. They will be ready for pick up at fire station 1 on Pitts Road Wednesday, November 25th from 4PM to 9PM. To order please go to www.pecangrovefire.org and click on “Pre-Order TODAY”. Deadline to order is November 17. For questions email bthompson@pecangrovefire.org.

I have a attached an e-mail I received from one of our residents. I couldn’t pass on the opportunity to brag a little. I feel Mr. Gaine’s e-mail gives a very accurate evaluation of your fire department.

Editor’s Note: The somewhat lengthy email praised PGVFD for their skill and professionalism in responding to an electrocution on September 18 when a person working on the gutters of a private home in Pecan Terrace was electrocuted and went into cardiac arrest. A passing motorist saw the panic situation and called 911. PGVFD arrived first followed shortly by Fort Bend EMS. Working as a team under great pressure these responders were successful in reviving the injured worker.

Report from Lt. Wayne Hastedt, FBC Sheriff’s Office

In the most recent reporting period there were 75 house watches, 0 burglaries, 25 traffic stops, 1 assault arrest, 2 warrant arrests and 1 car had its rear window broken out. The Sheriff’s Office will work closely with PG homeowner association leaders to keep traffic moving during the annual Christmas Lights Viewing season. Lt. Hastedt urges all homeowners to help keep traffic moving by using their driveways to keep parked cars off the streets as much as possible.

Operation of Parks

Flags were lowered to half-staff October 2 to honor National Fallen Firefighters Memorial and October 20 to honor Houston Police Sgt. Harold Preston.

The board approved purchasing new playground equipment for Windmill Park for an expected cost of approximately $68,000.

There were 4 pavilion reservations during October and it is reserved by the Cancer Walk for November 7

The board reviewed bids from five contractors for mowing of the parks and levee and for the performance of other functions related to maintaining the District. It was decided to accept the proposal of CDC Unlimited, LLC, the firm that has served the District for the past 20 plus years.

Excerpts from the Operator’s Report (EDP)

• Total water produced last month 77,028,000 gallons (60.34% was surface water)
• Adjusted water accountability 95.7%
• Sidewalk replacements around manholes 7
• Water meters which have reached 1.5 million gallons replaced last month 7

The board approved engagement of PALL Water to do an overall membrane system check at the surface water treatment plant at an estimated cost of $10,000. This check will consist of an onsite two-day review to help pinpoint problem areas and provide
recommendations to optimally operate the plant.

Each meter is read in 1,000-gallon increments and is recorded using only the first four numbers (shown in white). For the purposes of monthly reads and billing the numbers in black should be ignored.

If the small red dial on your meter is moving, there is some amount of water flowing through the meter and it may signify a leak on your private water line. To check for a leak, ensure that all water inside and outside of your house has been turned off and monitor the small red dial. Allow for the possibility that a refrigerator icemaker may come on or someone in the house may flush a toilet. But if the red dial continues to turn there may be a leak. Common sources of leaks are running toilets, dripping faucets, sprinkler systems and cracked or broken house lines.

District Administration Building

The board was advised by Method Architecture that construction drawings are almost complete for the proposed building which now measures approximately 4,104 sq. ft. Its exterior is planned to be a combination of natural stone and brick with parking in front and on the north and south sides. The building will be situated near the fire station in the front corner of the District’s park on Pitts Road. It is expected that construction bids will be opened November 17 and it is hoped that the board will be able to approve a contractor at its next regular meeting November 24, Once final decisions have been made on floor plan and exterior this data will be included in a future newsletter and posted on the District’s web site.

Click here to view Projects Under Construction.

Public Hearing and Adoption of Tax Rate for 2021

PGMUD board president Ryan Yokubaitis opened the meeting conducted by telephone conference call and asked for public comment regarding the proposed tax rate for the coming year.  Paul Metcalf asked for clarification as to the exact rate and was advised that the proposed total tax would remain the same as last year at 63.5 cents per $100 of taxable value.  The board then adopted that tax rate by unanimous vote.

Report From Trash Hauling Company WCA

Trevor Royal representing WCA was asked why there had been a noticeable increase in garbage collection complaints in the previous 30 days.  He advised the board that in late August the company took delivery of six new trash hauling trucks and retired the old ones.  Unfortunately, all the new trucks required additional work and they were not able to be used on a full schedule.  Mr. Royal said the problems have been resolved and service errors should diminish sharply.

Report From PGVFD

Fire Chief Joe Woolley reported normal activity with no major fires or unusual events.  There were 85 calls for service as follows:  51 Pecan Grove, 18 Waterside, 10 Harvest Green, 6 Mutual Aid.

The fire department currently has 30 volunteers and is actively seeking to recruit up to 10 more.  Volunteers  should live in the PG area and be open to fire fighting training and once certified respond to emergency calls.  For information about the volunteer program go the PGVFD website:  www.pecangrovefire.org.

Report From FBCSO

Nobody from the Sheriff’s office was available to report.  However, the board voted to approve renewal of the patrol deputy contract for the new fiscal year beginning October 1.  The cost of the patrol contract is shared 20% by PGMUD and 80% by these homeowner associations which receive the patrol service :  POA, HOA and Grove CIA.

Report From Time and Seasons on Operations of the Parks

There were three pavilion reservations during September.

T&S lowered flags to half-staff on September 11, 2020 at Pecan Grove Park and Memorial Park in honor of Patriots Day.

T&S lowered flags to half-staff on September 19, 2020 at Pecan Grove Park and Memorial Park to honor Associate Justice of the Supreme Court Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Due to COVID-19, T&S completed additional cleaning as per the approval of the board for the month of August.

T&S is coordinating mowing proposals for District maintenance. I will present more information at the October meeting.

Excerpts From Operator’s Report  (EDP)

Water Accountability 99.5%

Total Water Produced 60,133,000 gallons (57.6% was surface water)

Action Items – Repair Items Requiring Board Authorization

The board approved new repairs totaling approximately $37,000.

Other Operational Matters

There were many water distribution, sanitary sewer and storm water repairs completed during the month

Meter Replacement:  EDP continues to replace meters as they approach the one and one half million gallon mark as well as hard to read and stuck meters. There is a total of 4,985 meters replaced to date, with 21 meter(s) replaced this month.

Sidewalk Improvements From Previous Month:  None

District Administration Building

At its August meeting the board reviewed proposed construction plans and decided to reduce the size of the proposed building and its parking area with the goal of making the total estimated cost be no more than $1,000,000.  The TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality) has approved financing the building with $1,000,000 which is remaining from bonds originally issued in 2010 to pay for construction of the surface water treatment plant. The board was advised that the revised construction plans are 90% complete.

Visitors to the Pecan Grove MUD Website Last Month:  2,420

Report from the District Engineer (Odyssey Engineering Group)

PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Bullhead Slough Rehabilitation

The District is dredging silt out of Bullhead Slough and rehabilitating the side slopes which have eroded over time.  Project includes installing ShoreSox product at the water’s edge to stabilize and prevent future erosion.

Project includes eastern and middle sections of Bullhead.  Rehabilitation of the western section (nearest Mason Road) of Bullhead will be performed in the future with construction likely to begin in first quarter of 2021.

Contractor is complete with Phase 1 rehabilitation with only project clean up remaining.

Residents are reminded that, until contractor is completely demobilized, this will be an active construction site.  DO NOT enter construction site at any time.  Unauthorized access to the construction area places the unauthorized visitor and construction crews at risk.

Improvements to Raw Water Tanks at Surface Water Treatment Plant

The District is installing a floating mixer in each of the raw water storage tanks at the Surface Water Treatment Plant located off Skinner Road.  The mixers create constant movement in the raw water to limit sediment from settling to the bottom of the tank. In addition, stairs and walkways are being installed as part of this project to improve operator access to the tanks.

Project is under construction. Sediment in the west tank has been removed contractor will remobilize to complete construction on the project.

Electrical Improvements and Generator at Water Plant No. 2

The District is updating the electrical system including installation of a new generator at water plant no. 2 (located near the elevated storage tank).

Construction is nearing completion and the water plant is expected to be placed back in service in October.

North Pump Station Improvements

The District is improving the access to the north pump station by adjusting the headwall and grading modifications.  Project also includes automation of the pumps based on level of water in Bullhead Slough. The intent of this improvement is that if heavy rains cause water in Bullhead Slough to rise to a predetermined level and Oyster Creek is too high to allow gravity flow, the pumps will come on automatically and remove flood water into Oyster Creek (no manual intervention required).

Construction activity is nearing completion and expected to be fully complete in early October.

Improvements at Water Plant No. 3

The District is modifying the pumps and piping system at water plant no. 3 (located at the end of Willow Bend Dr.).

Notice to Proceed has been issued.  Contractor will mobilize in October to begin construction operations.

Completed Projects

Since the residents approved the bond authorization in 2018, the District has completed (or is nearing completion) of the following projects.

Upcoming Capital Improvement Projects

The following projects are included in the new fiscal year budgets and were authorized by the District to commence:

• Automatic Transfer Switch for Water Plant 1 & Water Well 5
  Project includes installation of necessary components to allow the connection of a portable generator to provide electricity to the facilities, if the electrical grid is not providing the required electricity.

• Epoxy Repairs on Structural Levee
  Project includes regrouting and applying of epoxy to maintain the structural levee walls in the District.

• Bullhead Slough – Phase Two
  Project will dredge and rehabilitate the side slopes of the portion of Bullhead Slough between Oyster Creek and Farmer Road.

• Main Channel Clean Out – Phase Two and Three
  Project includes dredging of the main drainage channel between Pitts Road and Plantation Road and the South Pump Station, located at F.M. 359

• Purchase of Water-Gate Barriers
  District will purchase additional temporary flood fighting features to aid in deployment in key areas around the levee, specifically along FM 359.

The District has identified the following locations for deployment of the Water-gate barriers in the event of rising Brazos River flood waters:

• Across F.M. 359 approximately 500-feet north of the intersection with Plantation Drive
• Across F.M. 359 approximately 2,000-feet south of the intersection with Plantation Drive (just south of the Campanile at Jones Creek Senior Living Center
• Across access road to District’s wastewater treatment facility
• Across Southern Place Drive

Water-gate barriers will only be deployed in accordance with the District’s approved Emergency Action Plan (EAP).

The Water-gate barriers have many benefits and make deployment easier.  You can visit this website (http://www.hydroresponse.com/watergate.htm) to witness how the water-gate barriers work in rising flood waters.

Levee Survey

District will engage a surveyor to perform a full topographic survey of the levee, including redundant levee, structural levee and related storm sewer.

 

Excerpts From Operator’s Report (EDP)

Water Accountability

• Percent Accountability 99.4 %
• PGMUD Total Metered Water 64,457,000
• Amount Produced 64,846,000
• Amount Unaccounted for 389,000
• Amount Used for Maintenance, Est. 50,000
• Amount Lost Due to Known Leaks, Est. 150,000
• Adjusted Accountability 99.7%

Water source last month: 75.6% surface (Oyster Creek) 24.4% ground (wells)

Lift Station #7 Fence Replacement

I was authorized at the May meeting to replace the lift station #7 driveway fence. The fence has been replaced and the work is excellent.

Sidewalk Improvements From Previous Month

• 3102 Old South Dr Sidewalk Repair Surrounding District Manhole
• 2203 Pleasant Shade Sidewalk Repair Surrounding District Manhole
• 1915 Hanover Springs Sidewalk Repair Surrounding District Manhole
• 1911 Hill Forest CT Sidewalk Repair Surrounding District Manhole
• 1203 Mayweather Ln Sidewalk Repair Surrounding District Manhole

Action Items – Repair Items Requiring Board Authorization

• Surface Water Treatment Plant Lobby Air Conditioner Compressor Replacement
  I am requesting authorization to replace the surface water treatment plant lobby air conditioner compressor for an estimated cost of $4,900.00. The current compressor is not able to hold a charge and repair is not possible.
• Surface Water Treatment Plant Carrier Water Meter Replacement
  I am requesting authorization to replace the surface water treatment plant carrier water meter for an estimated cost of $4,000.00. The current meter is not reading correctly and repairing the current unit is not possible.
• Surface Water Treatment Plant Sludge Well Pump #2 Repair
  I am requesting authorization to repair the surface water treatment plant sludge well pump #2 for an estimated cost of $7,900.00. The mechanical seals, bushings, and roller bearings are in need of replacement.
• Surface Water Treatment Plant Forklift Repair
  I am requesting authorization to repair the surface water treatment plant forklift for an
  estimated cost of $3,000.00. The speed sensors and bearings for the rear wheels have gone bad and need to be replaced.

In-Progress Water Distribution, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Repairs

• 08/07/20 1510 Giles Main Break Repair
• 08/03/20 2015 Plantation Sewer Lateral Replacement
• 07/28/20 1614 Mahan Service Line Repair
• 07/27/20 2326 Woven Wood Dr Service Line Repair
• 07/27/20 2915 Old South Dr Service Line Repair

Meter Replacement

We continue to replace meters as they approach the one and one half million gallon mark as well as hard to read and stuck meters. There is a total of 4,964 meters replaced to date, with 2 meter(s) replaced this month.

Pecan Grove Volunteer Fire Department Update

Fire chief Joe Woolley reported:

• 118 calls for emergency service.
• 70 calls were located in Pecan Grove
• 28 calls were located in Waterside
• 14 calls were located in Harvest Green
• 6 calls were to mutual aid another agency or outside our area

Nothing big or out of the ordinary, but the volume of calls was noticeably higher than last month, Normal medical calls, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Fire/Medical Alarms.

Sheriff’s Office Update

Lt. Wayne Hastedt reported:

• 215 dispatched calls
• 0 burglaries or thefts (but 1 car left unlocked was ransacked)
• 3 arrests
• 1 traffic stop (officers have reduced contact to a minimum to avoid COVID-19 spread)

Renewal of Contract Deputy Contract

The PGMUD board reviewed a contract deputy budget proposal from Fort Bend County that would take effect when the next fiscal year begins October 1. That proposal calls for 3 deputies to be assigned to patrol Pecan Grove (but not Pecan Lakes which opted not to participate). The cost is expected to be $26,090 per month. Pecan Grove MUD would pay 20% of the cost and the 80% remainder would be shared by POA, HOA and CIA. The PGMUD board voted to approve the contract deputy proposal subject to approval by all three of the partner homeowner associations.

Update on Proposed Regional Park and Pickleball Courts

Commissioner Andy Meyers has led a push to develop the land north of Frost Elementary School and west of Mason Road into a regional park. That project got a big boost when Commissioners Court allocated it $2 million of the Parks Bond issue that voters will have an opportunity to approve in the upcoming November election.

Commissioner Meyers has also endorsed the building of Pickleball courts on land to be acquired adjacent to and just south of the Harlem Road park.

From Robert Pechukas, Manager of Policy & Administration, Commissioner Andy Meyers:

We have $2 million allocated in the parks bond for the potential regional park and another $250k for Harlem Road Park (for the pickleball courts). We have not moved forward with the Pickleball courts as of yet, but will get back on track after a few other items that are higher priority are finalized.

Operations of the Parks

Report by Marcus Campbell, Owner of Time and Season

• Due to COVID-19, T&S (Time and Season) completed additional cleaning as per the approval of the board for the month of August
• T&S coordinated with WCA to have recycle bins at the Pecan Grove Park. They were delivered on August 10th, and will remain until further notice by WCA. See photo below.
• T&S treated fire ants at Windmill Park.
• T&S is working with CDC to complete irrigation repairs and upgrades at Windmill Park. I expect this work to be completed by next week.

The Board reviewed the question of whether to change the name of Windmill Park. The consensus was to keep that name. The board also reviewed and referred to the Parks Committee the following suggestion made by Marilyn Ewing via the “contact” menu item on the District’s website. Her suggestions follow:

Place a picnic table in Gazebo, there are benches but no table. Update play equipment with bright and colorful and new design. Add on side or across street by basketball court. Adult outdoor exercise equipment. Parents or others can work out while kids play.

If you have a suggestion for an improvement or addition to any of the District parks, please send an email via the PGMUD website.

District Administration Building

The Board was informed that the building planning committee would meet August 26 with the architectural firm handling building design to further refine details for the building. The next step will be to produce construction drawings so that bids for construction can be obtained. This building is planned for the southeast corner of Pecan Grove Park on Pitts Road.

Bullhead Slough Silt Removal and Shoreline Stabilization

As previously reported, two sections of Bullhead Slough are being deepened and their shoreline fitted with a system to prevent erosion of their banks.

The brown object at the right center of the photo below is referred to as a dewatering bag. The bag(s) is filled by sucking silt from the bottom of the channel and storing it in a dewatering bag. Over approximately a 30 day period the water seeps out of the bag and finds its way back into Bullhead Slough. With the water gone what remains is dirt. To finish the job, the bag is cut open and the dirt removed and hauled away.

Miscellaneous Items

Current year to date collection of ad valorem taxes due: 98.35%

Last year to date collection of ad valorem taxes due: 98.40%

Total visitors to Pecan Grove Municipal Utility District website: 1,173

Total subscribers to News and Alerts: 3428

Excerpts From Operator’s Report

PGMUD Total Metered Water: 51,455,000 gallons

Amount Produced: 59,304,000 gallons

Adjusted Accountability: 87.1%

Sidewalk Improvements From Previous Month

• 1806 Pilgrim Journey

Tree Removal

I am requesting authorization to remove a group of District owned trees along the property line of 902 Bent Creek Ct for an estimated cost of $5,200.00. The homeowner would like to replace their fence, but the trees have grown into the property line, preventing the work from being done. At the meeting the board approved this request.

Meter Replacement

We continue to replace meters as they approach the one and one half million gallon mark as well as hard to read and stuck meters. There is a total of 4,962 meters replaced to date, with 3 meter(s) replaced this month.

Message Language on Next Water Bill

The customer service office will be closed and there will be no garbage pick-up or recycling on Labor Day, September 7th. Normal pick-up will resume on September 10th.

If you have an outside leak or sewer problem, call us before calling a plumber. We are here to help 24/7.

Operation of the Parks

1. Due to COVID-19, T&S completed additional cleaning as per the approval of the board for the month of July.
2. Termite treatment was completed at Windmill Park.
3. Mosquito treatment was completed at Pecan Grove Park & the Levee.

Action Item Request & Updates

I was authorized last month to make repairs to irrigation at Windmill Park. This has been completed.

The board discussed whether the park recently acquired from the Pecan Grove POA should continue to be called “Windmill Park.” It was decided to ask the parks committee to study the question of name and what additional facilities should be built. The public therefore has an opportunity to suggest names and improvements for the park. One easy way to accomplish this  is to go to www.pecangrovemud.com and on the menu line select “contact.” Scroll down and find the contact form. You can send your suggestion to individual directors or the entire board.

Pecan Grove Volunteer Fire Department Update

Fire chief Joe Woolley reported that according to Fort Bend County there are 36 active COVID-19 cases in the PGVFD coverage area: Pecan Grove, Waterside and Harvest Green.

The board reviewed and approved the PGVFD audit report for last year and the proposed budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2020 which continues fire protection service fee at $11.00 per household.  As a part of the discussion about the budget it was observed that the service fee has remained constant for 5 years and there appeared to be a consensus among the PGMUD board members that beginning the fiscal year starting October 1, 2021 it would be reasonable for the fire department to request a rate adjustment in line with the consumer price index (CPI). Chief Woolley’s report continues below:

• 81 calls for emergency service
• 47 calls were located in Pecan Grove
• 19 calls were located in Waterside
• 12 calls were located in Harvest Green
• 3 calls were located outside of our district
• 0 calls were to mutual aid another agency

Nothing big or out of the ordinary, normal medical calls, motor vehicle accidents, fire/medical alarms.

Due to the increase of COVID-19 cases, I have suspended in person training and meetings through the end of July. We will review the situation at the end of the month and make the decision to continue the suspension or open back up and at what level.

We would like to thank the community for their efforts in stopping the spread of the virus. Staying home, wearing face coverings and avoiding gatherings of 10 or more really helps us serve you.

Remember, if you experience a medical issue and feel like you need to be checked out, DO NOT wait to call because you’re afraid of the reports of the hospital situations. We will respond along with Fort Bend County EMS and evaluate your situation. If you do not need to go to the hospital, we will let you know. However, if it is serious and you do need to go, you will be transported. The important message here is don’t wait until it is too late.

It is the time of the year when the tropics fire up. Make sure you are ready, stock up on water, non-perishable food items, batteries, keep your vehicles filled with fuel etc. If you have a portable generator and we lose power, remember Safety First. Don’t run the generator indoors, not even in the garage. Carbon Monoxide is deadly. Also watch out for electrical shock.

Sheriff’s Office Update

No representative of the Sheriff’s office signed in to the meeting.

Bullhead Slough Improvements

The photo below illustrates two major improvements being carried out on two sections of Bullhead Slough. The floating platform in the waterway is directing a large hose which is sucking silt from the bottom to deepen the channel. The increased depth will improve Bullhead Slough’s capacity as a storm water detention facility. A deeper channel will also improve reliability of the aerators and help reduce growth of vegetation.

Also illustrated is the installation of a shoreline maintenance system called ShoreSox. The material is anchored in place along the shoreline and grass sod will be installed which will grow through the ShoreSox. The resulting system has been proven effective in maintaining the integrity of waterway shorelines in other areas.

Jones Creek Slope Repair Update

The work to stabilize the bank of Jones Creek adjoining Pecan Lakes has been completed.  The bank has been lined with steel cages of rocks whose purpose is to allow flood water that soaks the bank behind the baskets to drain quickly to the creek. The picture below was taken midway through the project and illustrates the rock-filled cages in place.

Administration Building Update

The board received a report that construction drawings would be delivered the week beginning August 3.  After these drawings are received, bids will be solicited for construction of the building.  It was decided to hire two contractors:  one to do the site preparation and the other to construct the building.

PecanGroveMUD.com Website Activity

Visits to the site last month: 1,862

Total subscribers to News and Board Meeting Highlights: 3,378

Odyssey Engineering Report on Construction Projects

Please click here:  www.pecangrovemud.com

Fourth of July Fireworks Postponed (Excerpts From PG POA Report)

After reviewing the latest rising trends with COVID-19 cases in the Houston area in the past two weeks, and considering the guidance of local health officials, the POA Board has decided to POSTPONE our scheduled July 4th Fireworks event until later this year.

We are thankful to Sky Wonder Pyrotechnics (Fireworks Vendor), PGVFD and MUD board for their efforts to help us pivot and keep the show going on at Pecan Grove Park off Pitts Road on short-notice…we ALL wanted to make this work for the community.

FEMA Urges Flood Insurance Purchase

Recently PGMUD received a message from FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) asking the District to suggest that residents purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). They asked that Pecan Grove residents be made aware of these informative web sites:

• National Flood Insurance Program
• Ready – Department of Homeland Security

Please be aware that Flood Insurance must be purchased 30 days prior to any flooding event in most cases.

Flood Insurance Coverages and Claims

• NFIP Website
• Why Do I Need Flood Insurance
• Basic Principles of Flood Insurance: 4 Short Videos
• NFIP Summary of Coverage
• Lower-Cost Flood Insurance: The Preferred Risk Policy
• Five Ways to Lower the Cost of Your Flood Insurance Premium
• FEMA’s Flood Insurance Claims Process – Fact Sheet

Flood Maps and Flood Map Changes

• FEMA Map Service Center Website to Identify a Property’s Flood Zone
• FEMA Flood Map Changes Website to Compare Effective Maps to Preliminary Maps
• Map Changes and Flood Insurance: What Property Owners Need to Know – Fact Sheet

Excerpts from EDP Report (The District’s Operator)

• Pecan Grove MUD has again this year continued the designation of Superior Water Quality from TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality).
• Water Accountability: 99.3 % (Total gallons produced 59,908,000, Total metered 59, 507,000)
• Water Source:  Surface water 75.7%,  Ground (wells) water 24.3%
• Sidewalk Improvements From Previous Month
  • 1915 Hanover Springs Sidewalk Repair Surrounding Water Valve

We continue to replace meters as they approach the one and one half million gallon mark as well as hard to read and stuck meters. There is a total of 4,958 meters replaced to date, with 1 meter(s) replaced this month.

Report from Marcus Campbell of Time & Season (The District’s Park Manager)

• Due to COVID-19, T&S completed additional cleaning as per the approval of the board for the month of June.
• I was authorized last month to install Kiddie Cushion at the Pecan Grove Park. This is complete.
• I was authorized last month to install sand in the volleyball area at Pecan Grove Park. This is complete.
• T&S installed sand in the volleyball court and playground at Windmill Park. The pavilion and playground equipment have been cleaned.
• I am requesting authorization to repair irrigation at Windmill Park for an estimated cost of $3,000.00.
• I am requesting authorization to repair the expansion joints inside the pavilion as well as sidewalks at Windmill Park for an estimated cost of $7,000.00.

Report From Fire Chief Joe Woolley

• 80 calls for emergency service.
• 49 calls were located in Pecan Grove
• 15 calls were located in Waterside
• 11 calls were located in Harvest Green
• 3 call were located outside of our district
• 2 call were to mutual aid another agency
• Nothing big or out of the ordinary, Normal medical calls, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Fire/Medical Alarms.
• As most of you are aware, we have our annual 5 Miles My Way fun run coming up on July 4^th. Over the past couple of weeks, we have been consulting with our county health officials discussing the rising numbers of Covid 19 cases, the precautions we need to put in place and recommendations to the public attending the event. The County Health Officials recommend that the department not hold the event due to the current spike in COVID-19 cases, the current hospital situation, the number of participants and the inability to maintain adequate social/physical distancing during certain times of the event.As your Fire Chief, it is my duty to do what is best to maintain the safety of the participants and residents of the community that we love and serve. Taking everything into consideration for the safety of our community and our personnel, I have decided to postpone our Annual 5 Miles My Way fun run to later in the year (date TBD, but possibly Labor Day or Thanksgiving Week).
  
  This was a very difficult decision to make. Our annual 5 Miles My Way fun run has been held for over 30 years and it brings our community together as we celebrate July 4^th. This is one of two annual fundraisers that combined, provide approximately $40,000.00 to our annual budget. Both events have now been postponed as the safety of our community is our top priority.
• Our Golf tournament has been moved to October 19, 2020. There will be more information coming out as this date gets closer.
• Our annual audit has been completed and sent to Mrs. Miller, for your review.

Report From Trevor Royal of WCA (The District’sTrash Hauling Service)

• Effective with the next contract year which begins October 1, the fee for trash hauling will be reduced from $13.14 to $12.98 per household.
• An updated recycle flyer outlining permissible and non-permissible items is now available at  https://www.pecangrovemud.com/trash/  This flyer will be included as an insert with the next water bill.

Excerpts from Off Cinco Report (The District’s Website Provider)

• Visitors to PGMUD’s website: 1570
• Subscribers to News and Alerts: 3370

Odyssey Engineering Report on Construction Projects

• Please click here for Construction Projects page.
• Residents living near Bullhead Slough will be particularly interested to see a detailed description of the rehabilitation work that is scheduled to start in July.

The PGMUD board meeting was held May 26, 2020.  It was conducted by telephone conference (due to the COVID-19 emergency) beginning at 5:30 p.m. and ending at 8:25 p.m.

Fire Department Report (Written by Fire Chief Woolley)

• 93 calls for emergency service.
• 64 calls were located in Pecan Grove
• 16 calls were located in Waterside
• 7 calls were located in Harvest Green
• 3 calls were located outside of our district
• 3 calls were to mutual aid another agency

Nothing big or out of the ordinary, Normal medical calls, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Fire/Medical Alarms.

Update on Covid-19

We are continuing our operation the same, following the protocol set by Fort Bend County EMS and Fort Bend County Health and Human Services. Basically, we are treating every patient as if they are positive. So, if you have a medical emergency and we respond, we will provide you with a mask for you or a caregiver to place on you for precaution. Don’t be alarmed. We are continuing to limit our exposure by only sending 1 firefighter inside your home on non-life threatening situations and having you walk outside. Life threatening emergencies (Cardiac Arrest, Difficulty Breathing etc.) we will handle as normal, doing whatever we need to. We will wear much more P.P.E. (Personal Protective Equipment).

We have found our high-water vehicle; it will be delivered on Thursday. We will need to complete some upfitting, ie; Emergency lighting, Radio, A rear lift gate, Stripping & Paint. Our first step is taking it to our mechanic to service and go through it. Our goal is to have it in service for this hurricane season.

Our Golf tournament has been moved to November for now.

We are still moving forward with the Five Miles My Way fun run on July 4^th. We will be registering each weekend in June in front of the Daycare in Randall’s parking lot.

Our annual audit is under way, we met with the auditor on the 19^th From 9:00 thru 6:30. The site visit and gathering of all necessary documentation have been completed. We will provide the final audit when we receive it.

Sheriff’s Office Report

• One family violence arrest
• One Burglary of a vehicle (wallet removed)
• Zero burglaries of habitation or business

The FBSO has committed to increased surveillance of the levee using specialized vehicles.  Officers will warn or issue citations to anyone caught operating a motorized vehicle on the levee without authorization.

Parks Report (Written by Marcus Campbell – Time & Season Management)

Due to COVID-19, T&S completed additional cleaning as per the approval of the board for the month of May.

T&S installed new temporary signs at Pecan Grove Park for social distancing on May 3rd when playground and pavilion opened.

The shade structure has been installed.

I am requesting authorization to install 100 cubic yards of kiddie cushion at the Pecan Grove Park for $10,000.00. This was included in the budget for this fiscal year.

I am requesting authorization to install 12-15 cubic yards of sand in the volleyball area at Pecan Grove Park for an estimated cost of $1,500.00.

On May 19th, we added a post on the District’s website stating PGMUD has taken ownership of Windmill Park and will work towards repairs in the coming weeks and months. The following is a list of items we are currently working on that need immediate attention:

• Cleaning of trash
• Pest control (completed)
• Pressure washing – playground equipment & pavilion
• Adding sand and backfilling around uneven areas
• Fixing broken playground equipment that can be fixed immediately
• Replacement of signage

Trash Collection Matters (Text Approved by WCA)

Pecan Grove MUD residents may now report trash or recycle collection problems by going to www.pecangrovemud.com.  Near the top of the home page will be this link: Report Trash/Recycle problem.  Your report will be routed to WCA operations. Please wait 2 hours past your normal pick up time to send a report.  This is because, especially on heavy trash days, your truck may have had to go to the landfill to empty its load.  If you have been missed, WCA will make every effort to circle back and provide service.

FYI  it is not necessary to put trash or recycle containers in the street.  Recycle containers not placed in the street should be placed within 18 inches of the curb with wheels away from the curb.  This placement is necessary because recycle is sometimes picked up by a truck with a mechanical arm.  That arm can reach a container that is placed within 18 inches of the curb.  Trash containers may be placed on the sidewalk or as close to the street as practical.

Please remember trash placed in a recycle container WILL NOT BE PICKED UP even if it is labeled “trash”.

Operator’s Report (Written and Provided by EDP)

Sidewalk Improvements From Previous Month

• 2003 Lake Dale Ct Sidewalk Repair Surrounding Water Valve
• 2415 Cooling Breeze Dr Sidewalk Repair Surrounding Manhole
• 1703 Copperwood Ln Sidewalk Repair Surrounding Water Valve

Annual Fire Hydrant Flushing Has Been Completed

Water Accountability

• Percent Accountability 97.7 %
• PGMUD Total Metered Water 48,002,000
• Amount Produced 49,128,000
• Amount Unaccounted for 1,126,000
• Amount Used for Maintenance, Est. 50,000
• Amount Lost Due to Known Leaks, Est. 150,000
• Adjusted Accountability 98.1%

In-Progress Water Distribution, Sanitary Sewer and Storm Water Repairs

• 05/18/20 1915 Rambling Stone Service Line Repair
• 05/05/20 2526 Glen Haven Ln Curb Stop Leak
• 05/05/20 1523 Pecan Branch Dr Service Line Repair
• 05/01/20 2439 Standing Oaks Ln Valve Stack Repair

Significant Repairs From Previous Month

• SWTP (surface water treatment plant) Purchased New Cl2 Roller and Tubes
• SWTP Installed New Motor on Flash Mix Pump
• SWTP Purchased Items to be Used at SWTP
• SWTP Ran Belt Press After Hours
• WP #3 Installed New Air Relief and Isolation Valves on HPTs
• WWTP Replaced Chlorine Cylinder Hoist
• 1403 Hobson Dr Replaced Leaking Service Line
• 1422 Emmott Dr Replaced Leaking Service Line
• 2222 Spanish Forest Landscape Repair Post Service Line Replacement
• 1522 Country Squire Replaced Leaking Service Line
• 1011 Morton League Ct Replaced Revere Grade Sewer Lateral
• 2339 Trail Wood Repaired Broken Sewer Line

Meter Replacement

We continue to replace meters as they approach the one and one half million gallon mark as well as hard to read and stuck meters. There is a total of 4,957 meters replaced to date, with 2 meter(s) replaced this month.

Total Connections 4,486

Preliminary Plans for a District Administration Building were reviewed.

This building would be approximately 4,600 square feet and would provide office space for EDP personnel serving the District.  It would contain a large multi-purpose meeting room suitable for the PGMUD monthly board meetings.  That same room and its kitchen and audio facilities would be available for rental to Pecan Grove residents for their private events.

Election of Directors Confirmed

The board accepted  three newly elected directors’ Sworn Statements and Oaths of Office for new four-year terms ending in May 2024.  These directors were unopposed in the election that would have been held May 2, 2020:  Chuck Bertrand, Stephen Crow, and Jean Gobar. The board voted to continue unchanged the officer titles and committee assignments of all board members.

Rent, Mortgage and Utility Assistance

The District has been asked by Fort Bend County to publicize the availability of financial assistance for eligible residents of FBC.  The text which follows was extracted from the flyer advising availability of such assistance.

Fort Bend County has approved $19.5 million in funding from the federal CARES Act to support our residents, which will help eligible citizens pay their rent, mortgage and utilities from June 2020 through November 2020. The County allocated an additional $2 million for utility assistance.

Online Applications Begin June 1st at 8am

Phone 281-238-CARE (281-238-2273)

https://www.fbchhs.org/social-services/request-services

Due to the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration the PGMUD Board Conducted Its April 28 Meeting By Teleconference. The meeting began at 5:30 p.m. and ended at 7:20 p.m.

Parks Report

Effective May 2 the playground equipment and restrooms have reopened at Pecan Grove Park on Pitts Rd. These facilities will be cleaned and disinfected daily. Visitors are asked to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 virus by observing social distancing (6 feet) and to wash hands after touching surfaces such as the playground equipment, picnic tables or surfaces in the restroom.

A shade structure for certain park playground equipment is expected to be installed the week of May 4.

Trash Report

Normal pickup of recycle material has resumed. During the suspension of home pickup, WCA maintained one 30 cubic yard container in Pecan Grove Park. A total of 8 of these containers were filled by Pecan Grove residents, taken to the recycle center and returned. All 22 employees who were sickened or quarantined are now back on the job.

Residents may now report trash or recycle pickup problems on line. Go to www.pecangrovemud.com. At the top of the home page you will see “Report Trash/Recycle Problem”. Click that link and complete the form that appears. When “send” is clicked your report will go to WCA as well as the PGMUD office.

Sheriff’s Report

There were 291 dispatched calls, 33 traffic stops, 3 arrests (assault, DWI, Assault – Family Violence) and 0 burglaries or thefts. Deputy Bennett reported that sheriff deputies are continuing to keep a lookout for motorized vehicles unauthorized on the levee.

Fire Department Report by Chief Woolley

Nothing big or out of the ordinary, Normal medical calls, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Fire/Medical Alarms.

• 103 calls for emergency service.
• 67 calls were located in Pecan Grove
• 22 calls were located in Waterside
• 8 calls were located in Harvest Green
• 5 calls were located outside of our district
• 1 call was to mutual aid another agency. We did have 2 small fires in Pecan Grove and both were contained in the area of origin: a microwave & a fish tank. Neither spread.

Update on Covid-19: We are continuing our operation the same, following the protocol set by Fort Bend County EMS and Fort Bend County Health and Human Services. Basically, we are treating every patient as if they are positive. So, if you have a medical emergency and we respond, we will provide you with a mask for you or a caregiver to place on you for precaution. Don’t be alarmed. We are continuing to limit our exposure by only sending 1 firefighter inside your home on non-life threatening situations and having you walk outside. Life threatening emergencies (Cardiac Arrest, Difficulty Breathing etc.) we will handle as normal, doing whatever we need to. We will wear much more P.P.E. (Personal Protective Equipment).

We are still looking for a high-water vehicle.

Our Golf tournament has been moved to November for now.

We are still moving forward with the Five Miles My Way fun run on July 4th. We will be registering each weekend in June in front of the Daycare in Randall’s parking lot.

Our annual audit may be a little later than normal due to the pandemic. Our auditor is being cautious about scheduling dates to come out. We are set up for May 18th if nothing happens.

Report by the District Operator EDP

Water Accountability

• Percent Accountability 96.5 %
• PGMUD Total Metered Water 39,227,000
• Amount Produced 40,639,000
• Amount Unaccounted for 1,411,000
• Amount Used for Maintenance, Est. 50,000
• Amount Lost Due to Known Leaks, Est. 150,000
• Adjusted Accountability 99.9%

Drinking Water Testing

We collected 15 bacteriological samples in the month of March 2020. Daily distribution system disinfection testing confirmed the drinking water system met the state and federal compliance
standard for disinfection.

Sidewalk Improvements From Previous Month

• 2555 Lake Dale Ln Sidewalk Repair Surrounding Manhole
• 1903 Misty Falls Sidewalk Repair Surrounding Manhole

Annual Fire Hydrant Flushing

The annual fire hydrant flushing was postponed last month and has been rescheduled for the week of May 25th.

Annual EVO REPORT comparing PGMUD with area utility districts was received.

As you can see from the charts below which can be found on our website, PGMUD has lower taxes and lower water bills than any of the MUDs compared.

Number of subscribers to PGMUD’s News & Alerts: 3,322.

Generator Safety Tips from PGVFD

As we enter hurricane season, I wanted to remind everyone of the hazards of portable generators.

The primary hazards when using a generator are carbon monoxide poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Here are tips for safely using generators:

• Follow the instructions that come with your generator. Never use a generator indoors or in partially enclosed spaces, including homes, garages, basements and crawl spaces – even those with partial ventilation. Never run a generator in areas where people or animals are present. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide build-up in the home. Place the generator away from open windows.
• Don’t assume that you are safe. Carbon monoxide fumes emitted by gasoline engines can be fatal, often without the victims – especially those who are sleeping – ever realizing the danger. You cannot smell or see carbon monoxide. So even if you do not smell exhaust fumes, you may be exposed. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air immediately. The carbon monoxide from generators can rapidly lead to full incapacitation and death. If you experience serious symptoms, get medical attention right away and inform medical staff that carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected. If the symptoms occurred while indoors, call the fire department to determine if it is safe to re-enter the building.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms inside your home to warn when carbon monoxide levels from any source pose a serious health risk. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended placement.
• Always connect the generator to the appliances with heavy-duty extension cords. Hooking up your generator directly into your home power supply could energize the outside power lines and potentially injure or electrocute an unwary utility lineman. It also bypasses some of the built-in household circuit protection devices. If you must connect the generator through the house wiring to power appliances, use a qualified electrician to install the appropriate equipment in accordance with local electrical codes. Or, ask your utility company to install an appropriate power transfer switch.
• Never store fuel for your generator in your house. Gasoline, propane, kerosene, and other flammable liquids should be stored outside of living areas in properly labeled, non-glass safety containers. Do not store them near a fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural gas water heater in a garage. If the fuel is spilled or the container is not sealed properly, invisible vapors from the fuel can travel along the ground and be ignited by the appliance’s pilot light or by arcs from electric switches in the appliance. Before refueling the generator, turn it off and let it cool down. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite, and invisible vapors from the fuel can travel along the ground and be ignited by the generator’s pilot light or by arcs from electric switches in the appliance.

Information taken from FEMA.gov
Stay Safe, Fire Chief Joe Woolley

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PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Main Channel Rehabilitation

The District is rehabilitating the south bank of Main Channel at its confluence with Jones Creek.  During Harvey a portion of this bank eroded causing cavities behind some of the existing slope paving.  Repairs included rebuilding the slope, installation of an erosion control mat, and grout filing behind the void under the existing slope paving.  The District has obtained approval from FEMA for this project.

Construction is complete with inspections to be held in early May.

Jones Creek Slope Rehabilitation

Construction has commenced on the Jones Creek Slope Rehabilitation project, which consists of installation of gabion basket erosion protection system along the west side of Pecan Lakes, adjacent to Jones Creek.  Project is expected be under construction through Summer 2020.

Segment B, location near the pump station, is complete, with only minor items remaining as part of close out of the entire project.

On Segment A, the area immediately behind the residences, the Contractor has continued to work on installation of gabion baskets.  The Contractor is approximately 75% complete with bottom layer, about 25% complete with the second layer and has started on the third layer.

The Contractor is allowed to work from 7 a.m. until sunset for seven days a week. At this time, the Contractor does expect to work seven days a week in order to achieve the project delivery schedule.

Residents are reminded that this is an active heavy construction site.  DO NOT enter construction site at any time.  There has been unauthorized access to the construction area which places the unauthorized visitor and construction crews at risk.

Levee Drainage Improvements adjacent to Harvest Green

This project, which cleared out the trees and vegetation that prevents adequate drainage on the toe of the levee adjacent to the Harvest Green development, is complete pending final grass growth.

Improvements to Raw Water Tanks at Surface Water Treatment Plant

The District will install a floating mixer in each of the raw water storage tanks at the Surface Water Treatment Plant located off Skinner Road.  The mixers will create constant movement in the raw water to limit sediment from settling to the bottom of the tank. In addition, stairs and walkways will be installed as part of this project to improve operator access to the tanks.

Project is under construction.  Raw water sediment mixers are operational and working very efficiently.  Contractor is assembling stairs and walkway on site for installation in early May.

Mason Road Levee Improvements

The District is working on raising the levee along Mason Road from the intersection of FM 359, north along Mason Road, then east along Oyster Creek to Farmers Road.   Plans include adding up to an additional one (1) foot of height to the levee between Pecan Grove Plantation Country Club and Farmer Road where it crosses Oyster Creek.  Project will include adjustments to the existing parking lot at Belin Park which will include new paving in

Construction is underway. Contractor is approximately 75% complete with construction. Construction is expected to last into June 2020.

Residents are reminded that this is an active heavy construction site.  DO NOT enter construction site at any time.

South Pump Station Automation

The District is updating the electrical system to allow for the pumps at the south pump station to automatically turn on or off based on the water level in the main channel.

Notice to Proceed has been issued and construction has commenced with installation of conduit sleeves for electrical improvements.

South Pump Station Access Road Improvements

The District is improving the access road to the south pump station to install a concrete driveway.

Project is complete pending final inspections.

Residents are reminded that this is an active heavy construction site.  DO NOT enter construction site at any time.

Rehabilitation of Lift Station 7

The District is rehabilitating and updating the electrical controls at Lift Station No. 7. The pumps, concrete wet well, valves, electrical components and other appurtenances have reached the design life.

Construction has commenced on the project.  The Contractor has expedited construction activities.  Lift station is expected to undergo start up testing the first week of May 2020.

Electrical Improvements and Generator at Water Plant No. 2

The District is updating the electrical system including installation of a new generator at water plant no. 2 (located near the elevated storage tank).

Notice to Proceed has been issued.  Contractor is ordering the necessary components and construction is expected to begin in Summer 2020.

Improvements at Water Plant No. 3

The District is modifying the pumps and piping system at water plant no. 3 (located at the end of Willow Bend Dr.).

Notice to Proceed has been issued.  Contractor is ordering the necessary components and construction is expected to begin in Summer 2020.

 

PROJECTS UNDER DESIGN

North Pump Station Improvements

The District is improving the access to the north pump station by adjusting the headwall and grading modifications.  Project also includes automation of the pumps based on level of water in Bullhead Slough.

District received bids on the project and awarded the project to Rally Construction, Inc. Notice to Proceed is expected to be issued in June 2020.

Bullhead Slough Rehabilitation

The District is dredging silt out of Bullhead Slough and rehabilitating the side slopes which have eroded over time.  Project includes installing ShoreSox product at the water’s edge to stabilize and prevent future erosion.  Project includes eastern and middle sections of Bullhead.  Western section of Bullhead will be performed in the future.

District received bids and awarded the contract to Storm Water Solutions.  Notice to Proceed is expected to be issued in June 2020.

Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at 5:30 PM
• Public Hearing Agenda (PDF)
Teleconference: 877-402-9753, PIN: 7731329