In the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, the city of Harlingen is grappling with a unique challenge – managing the proliferation of car washes while ensuring responsible water usage. As the self-proclaimed "car wash capital of the Valley," Harlingen is now revisiting zoning regulations to strike a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability.

Tapping into the Car Wash Boom, Conserving Precious Water Resources

Drought Conditions Spur Renewed Efforts

With regional water levels standing at a concerning 20.27% across the Falcon and Amistad reservoirs, the city's leadership is taking a proactive approach. Mayor Norma Sepulveda and Commissioner Rene Perez are leading the charge to introduce new zoning regulations that would control the number of new car washes while promoting water conservation measures.

Uncovering the Water Consumption Conundrum

A recent study conducted by the city's planning department and WaterWorks revealed that one of Harlingen's largest car washes consumed over 11 million gallons of water last year, accounting for a staggering 34% of the total water usage by the city's car wash industry. These findings have prompted the city to reevaluate its approach, with Mayor Sepulveda expressing optimism that the commission now views the proposed ordinance through the critical lens of water conservation.

Balancing Growth and Sustainability

Amid a national boom in the car wash industry, Harlingen has seen a surge in new establishments, with approximately 22 car washes currently operating within the city limits. However, this rapid growth has raised concerns among city officials and residents alike. Commissioner Perez notes that the proliferation of car washes has led to the occupation of prime commercial real estate, potentially leaving behind vacant and unsightly lots if the industry experiences a downturn.

Seeking Community Input and Collaboration

In response to these concerns, the city commission is now calling on residents to share their perspectives on the car wash boom. Commissioner Perez acknowledges that the community's input will be crucial in shaping the city's approach, stating, "You ask anybody in Harlingen what there's too much of, they'll say car washes."

Exploring Regulatory Approaches

The city is currently drafting a proposal modeled after an ordinance implemented in Edinburg, which requires a minimum 2-mile distance between new car washes. Additionally, the city is looking to Brownsville's approach, which limits the distance between new car washes while mandating water recycling measures – an approach that Mayor Sepulveda considers "promising, particularly in terms of water conservation."

Balancing Business-Friendly Policies and Responsible Growth

While some commissioners, such as Daniel Lopez, have previously opposed efforts to restrict car washes, they now express a willingness to collaborate on water usage and recycling rules that promote conservation. However, Lopez emphasizes the need to consider the city's comprehensive development plan and gather public input before implementing any geographically-restrictive ordinances.

Lessons from Successful Cities: Cultivating Attractive and Sustainable Growth

Commissioner Lopez, along with the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation's chief executive officer, Orlando Campos, have studied how "beautiful and successful cities" are the result of well-crafted rules and regulations that balance economic development and community aesthetics. They acknowledge that such measures may initially be perceived as burdensome, but the long-term benefits of a well-planned and sustainable city are worth the effort, provided that they align with the vision and desires of Harlingen's residents.