Board of directors election was the main topic of discussion at the recent meeting of the Saratoga Underground Water Conservation District.

Precinct 1 Director T.P. Wingo and Precinct 3 Director David Hamilton previously announced they would not seek another term. Their terms expire Dec. 31.

Hamilton is chairman of the board, and Wingo serves as secretary/ treasurer.

Wingo said one reason he is not seeking another term is that he does not have access to the Internet.

"So much of the information on water districts, GMA 8 and the Texas Water Development Board is available only over the Internet and e-mails," he said. "It would be a great advantage for a director to have Internet capabilities."

Wingo reviewed the district director election requirements. He said the precincts coincide with Lampasas County commissioner Precincts 1 and 3.

"If you live in one of those precincts, you are eligible to be a member of this board," Wingo said.

Several residents have expressed an interest in serving as a director but have not made a commitment yet. If only one person files for each precinct, there is no filing fee, and all that is required is the completion of several forms. If more than one candidate emerges, however, the paperwork becomes more complicated, and the names would be placed on the ballot in the November general election.

The filing period opened July 28, Wingo said. "You can pick up the forms in the county judge's office, and the last day to file is Aug. 26 at 5 p.m.," he announced.

Anyone interested in serving as a director can contact Wingo for more information.

If both the precinct director positions are uncontested, an election would not have to be held, and the board of directors can declare the candidates elected. If no election were necessary, the Saratoga district would save several thousand dollars in election costs.

The Saratoga Underground Water Conservation District does not have taxing authority, and directors serve without pay or compensation. Their reward is to protect and conserve the underground water resources of Lampasas County, Wingo added.

In other business, Vice Chairman Lee Hoffpauir reviewed the latest Palmer Drought Severity Index. The index map shows Lampasas County is experiencing a moderate drought, despite recent rain showers in parts of the county.

It was noted that a National Weather Service forecast map indicates the state should receive beneficial rainfall during the next three months.

In conclusion of the meeting, Wingo reported the filing cabinet previously OK'd for purchase had been delivered. Although the estimated cost was about $800, the district received a discounted price of $342, he said.

The file cabinet, which will store district records and forms, will be kept in the county courtroom jury room.

Saratoga directors will convene next on Monday at 1:30 p.m. in the county courtroom.