The tower was definitely a landmark for the community, though it had deteriorated over the years and its preservation became a contentious issue in local government due to rehabilitation costs that couldn't be covered.
https://www.fbherald.com/news/needville-s-historic-water-tower-comes-down/article_0ddbfed6-980a-11ed-b219-e7d9b67dc2ab.html
It's too bad though. I've always liked those older towers.
In better years, the blue paint made it "pop" and it was visible for a decent distance due to the flat terrain.