Local group looks to bring clean water to West Odessa amid economic growth concerns

WEST ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) - The West Odessa Water Warriors, a non-profit focused on finding alternative water sources for the people of West Odessa, held a fundraiser on Tuesday.

The group said they estimate there are about 40,000 people in West Odessa living without reliable connections to clean water. They also claim that the Ector County Utility District has had difficulty keeping up with growth in the area. Now, the group is worried that these issues could slow growth for West Odessa.

"The community needs water to grow, so people will not want to move here. We already have stunted economic development because we don't have sewer or water, we're all on septic tanks. That really prohibits big businesses from wanting to come out here and develop," said Patti Kappauf with the West Odessa Water Warriors.

Tuesday's brisket plate fundraiser served as a way to help the group attain tax-exempt status and give them resources to figure out more ways to bring new water to the area.

The West Odessa Water Warriors started in June of 2023 and they're looking to raise money as they continue to grow. You can learn more about the group on its website here.