Smart Resolutions for Water in the New Year

HCMUD 0712025-12-31T10:52:02-06:00December 31, 2025|

The start of a new year is the perfect time to set goals that make a difference, both at home and in the community. For HCMUD 71 residents, one of the most impactful resolutions is using water more efficiently. Simple daily changes can help lower utility bills, conserve resources, and reduce demand on the District’s water system during the hotter months ahead.

Start inside your home by checking for leaks. A dripping faucet or a running toilet can waste hundreds, or even thousands, of gallons of water each month. Toilets are often the biggest culprit. To test for toilet leaks, try adding a few drops of non-gel food coloring to the tank and waiting 10 minutes; if color appears in the bowl, there’s a leak that needs repair. Replacing old fixtures with low-flow showerheads and WaterSense- labeled faucets is another easy way to cut water use without sacrificing comfort. HCMUD 71 also utilizes electronic smart meters. Please consider signing up online for a free Eye On Water account, at https://hcmud71.com/water/#smartmeters, where you can view your water usage and sign up for automated leak alerts to avoid unexpected and costly surprises on your water bill.

In the kitchen and laundry room, run dishwashers and washing machines only when full, and scrape plates instead of rinsing them before loading. If your refrigerator has a water dispenser, keep a pitcher of cold water on hand instead of running the tap until it’s cool. These small steps add up to noticeable savings over time.

Outdoors, irrigation accounts for much of the seasonal water use in Katy. Make a habit of checking sprinkler heads for leaks or misalignment and watering early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Adjust automatic timers during the winter and after rain to avoid unnecessary watering. Grouping plants by water needs and adding mulch around garden beds help the soil retain moisture longer.

As you set new goals for the year ahead, make smart water use part of your routine. Every gallon saved helps maintain reliable service, protect groundwater supplies, and keep future costs manageable for everyone. Small actions taken by many residents can make a big impact on both the community and the environment.

MUD Responsibilities Explained: Water, Waste, Parks, and More

HCMUD 0712025-12-17T12:03:22-06:00December 17, 2025|

Most residents know that HCMUD 71 provides their water and trash collection services, but the District’s responsibilities extend much further. As a local government entity created under the authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and operating in accordance with the Texas Water Code, HCMUD 71 manages a range of essential services that support everyday life and protect the community’s long-term infrastructure.

HCMUD 71 provides and maintains the water, wastewater, and drainage systems that serve homes and businesses throughout the community. The District owns and operates its own groundwater wells, ensuring residents have a reliable source of clean drinking water. It also maintains the wastewater collection system, which safely transports wastewater from homes to treatment facilities that meet state and federal environmental standards. These systems are regularly inspected and monitored to ensure compliance with TCEQ regulations and to maintain water quality and service reliability.

In addition to water and wastewater management, HCMUD 71 oversees the storm drainage infrastructure that helps protect the community from flooding. This includes detention ponds, outfalls, and storm sewer pipes that carry stormwater away from streets and homes during heavy rainfall. These facilities are built and maintained according to standards set forth in the Texas Water Code and local stormwater regulations to protect both residents and the environment.

The District is also authorized by the Texas Water Code to develop and maintain parks, recreational facilities, and open spaces for public use. This authority allows HCMUD 71 to enhance the quality of life for residents by maintaining community parks, playgrounds, trails, and greenbelts. These spaces provide safe, enjoyable outdoor environments for walking, playing, and gathering with family and friends while also contributing to neighborhood appeal and property values. The District’s Board of Directors establishes park rules and maintenance standards to ensure these amenities remain safe and accessible for everyone. Residents can find more information on the District’s parks at www.hcmud71.com/parks.

HCMUD 71 manages trash and recycling services for all residents within the District through a contracted waste collection company. The District oversees these services to ensure reliable pickup, proper disposal, and environmentally responsible recycling practices. The District coordinates with the collection company to address missed pickups, communicates holiday schedules, and promotes responsible disposal of heavy trash, yard waste, and household items. By coordinating these services, the District helps maintain a clean community and ensures waste is managed responsibly. Residents can find current service details and collection guidelines at www.hcmud71.com/trash.

To fund these essential services, the District collects revenue through user fees on water and sewer bills and property taxes set annually by the HCMUD 71 Board of Directors. Each year, the Board holds a public hearing before adopting the tax rate in accordance with the Texas Water Code and the Texas Tax Code. These funds are used exclusively for public purposes, including operations, maintenance, and long-term infrastructure improvements. The District’s financial activities are subject to annual independent audits, which are publicly available in compliance with state transparency requirements.

Although HCMUD 71 operates independently, it works closely with other public agencies such as the TCEQ, the West Harris County Regional Water Authority (WHCRWA), the Texas State Comptroller, and Harris County to ensure all operations meet the requirements of state and local law. The District’s meetings are open to the public, and residents are encouraged to attend or review meeting minutes to stay informed about ongoing projects, water system updates, and community initiatives.

HCMUD 71’s mission is to provide reliable water, wastewater, drainage, park, and solid waste services while protecting the health, safety, and quality of life of its residents. The District’s success depends on efficient management, public involvement, and continued investment in the community’s future.