The cities of Hays and  Russell are looking to the future and to the southwest for longterm water supplies.  Both governing bodies voted last week to proceed with exploring options at the Circle K Ranch in Edwards County, which is jointly owned by  Hays and Russell.   The two towns comprise Public Wholesale Water Supply District #15.  Chairman Joe Glassman, a former Hays City Commissioner, is encouraging both entities to start the process.

Wilson Lake is another top alternative water source for Hays and Russell, but would be more expensive to acquire.  Engineer estimates are 84 million dollars for Wilson; 62 million dollars for Circle K Ranch.

Glassman says the water district will meet in September and then report back to each city council on recommendations for moving forward.