DRAFT
Introduction of the Texas Township Watershed Committee & Invitation to Collaborate
Dear Members of the Texas Township Board and Planning Commission,
I’m writing on behalf of a growing coalition of residents who have come together to form the Texas Township Watershed Committee—an independent, community-led initiative focused on protecting the long-term safety, beauty, and resilience of our township’s lakes, wetlands, and green spaces.
This committee was born from a shared concern about how ongoing development may be compromising the natural safeguards that have quietly served our community for generations. These landscapes are not just scenic—they are functional infrastructure. Wetlands absorb stormwater, tree cover reduces runoff, and open space buffers flood risk. When thoughtfully preserved and integrated into land use planning, these features reduce infrastructure costs, protect public safety, and maintain the character of our township.
We believe green space should be treated as infrastructure. Like culverts, pumps, and retention basins, it performs essential functions—yet unlike engineered systems, it does so quietly, continuously, and without cost to taxpayers. When lost, however, the burden shifts. Reactive upgrades, emergency interventions, and special assessments often fall to residents, while natural services that once came free are replaced with expensive substitutes. These consequences are not inevitable—they result from policy choices.
We’re not an environmental group, though some of us may bring that perspective. What unites us is a shared commitment to taking care of what works. Texas Township’s lakes and wetlands aren’t just beautiful—they’re essential infrastructure. They manage stormwater, recharge groundwater, and support regional water supply systems that benefit the entire county. Preserving these resources isn’t a special interest—it’s a shared responsibility that affects every resident. It’s a practical investment in public safety, economic stability, and smart governance.
The following goals guide our committee:
Preserve and protect green space as a vital component of watershed infrastructure
Ensure consistent enforcement of ordinances that guard against erosion, runoff, and floodplain encroachment
Collaborate on refining green space ordinances to strengthen protections and close regulatory gaps
Promote transparency and accountability in development decisions affecting shared natural resources
Foster inclusive dialogue by welcoming all residents committed to responsible stewardship
Maintain open communication with township leadership through regular updates, proposals, and public feedback
While we have not filed formal paperwork with Texas Township—and do not intend to—we remain committed to operating transparently and constructively. We seek to grow in both participation and impact, supporting township leadership in shaping resilient, well-informed policies that reflect community values and practical realities.
We look forward to participating in upcoming meetings, submitting public comments, and engaging in respectful dialogue with township officials and fellow residents. We also welcome the involvement of any board or commission members who share an interest in protecting Texas Township’s natural assets and ensuring its long-term resilience. Our committee is open, collaborative, and committed to elevating public concerns while helping safeguard the township’s safety, welfare, and future.
Sincerely,
Blaine Longjohn
On behalf of the Texas Township Watershed Committee
📧 texastownshipwatershed@gmail.com
