The City of San Augustine is facing a possible major water issue if something’s not done soon to replace it’s aging above ground fresh-water storage tank.

City Manager Bruce Milstead tells us the half-million gallon structure is in terrible shape structurally, and the city’s looking at funding options for replacement. He said it would take around a million dollars to replace the 40+ year old tank, plus do needed repairs at the sewage plant. Milstead advised the city council at last week’s meeting of how severe the water storage issue is. A combination of bonds and even a loan are funding options the City of San Augustine is exploring.

In addition, Milstead said the city’s still seeking a $1.4 million grant to assist with extending city water and sewage service south on Hwy. 96 for the Pinto Pony factory project, as well as other current and future businesses along the corridor.

Also, at the meeting, the San Augustine Garden Club was given the green light to proceed with funding to establish a “birding trail” on city property along Ayish Bayou. Milstead said “bird watching” is the fastest growing spectator hobby in the U.S.