The city of Hays is moving closer to developing a new water resource.

On the agenda for Tuesday’s work session is discussion of a staff recommendation to declare the city’s intent to develop the R9 Ranch, which is in Edwards County south of Hays and has long been eyed as a possible source of new water for the city.

The action is listed among the agenda items for this week’s Hays City Commission work session, scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.

“After years of studying potential water sources, it has been determined that the R9 Ranch provides the most viable long-term option for Hays and the surrounding area,” City Manager Toby Dougherty wrote in his memo to the commission.

Development of the Edwards County water resource, which would be delivered via pipeline, is a solution that looks out “50 to 70 years,” Dougherty wrote, noting the project would provide water regionally, not just to the city of Hays.

The project is estimated to cost $65 million, but Dougherty said the city already has approximately $27 million in reserves to assist with the project. Since 1992, the city has collected a special sales tax to help fund water projects, and Dougherty said the majority has been placed into reserve, a fund he said would continue to grow.

Also on Tuesday’s work session agenda is further discussion of the inoperable vehicle ordinance and rules governing storage of shipping containers. Commissioners also will discuss a project to increase the size of the water main serving the King’s Gate addition on 41st Street.

For a complete agenda, click HERE.