Paul Roberts
Councilmember
Colleagues,
As many of you are aware, the heavy rains on May 6 highlighted long-standing drainage deficiencies in multiple areas of Lago Vista—particularly in older neighborhoods like “Old Lago” where topography and lot-by-lot development often bypass engineered stormwater planning.
Yesterday’s numerous flooding videos revealed significant sheet flow runoff into residential properties, raising valid concerns from residents. In response, I worked with staff to evaluate whether current city procedures and code adequately address these risks. Based on that review—and in alignment with past concerns raised by staff and residents—I have submitted an agenda item for May 15 that proposes referral of draft drainage ordinance amendments to the appropriate Commissions (P&Z and BSC) for fine-tuning and recommendation.
The proposed amendments aim to:
I respectfully ask for your support in referring this to P&Z and BSC so the process can move forward. This is not a final ordinance—it's a policy framework in need of refinement. I’ve also posted a copy of the referral packet and Council cover sheet with the agenda item for your review.
As many of you are aware, the heavy rains on May 6 highlighted long-standing drainage deficiencies in multiple areas of Lago Vista—particularly in older neighborhoods like “Old Lago” where topography and lot-by-lot development often bypass engineered stormwater planning.
Yesterday’s numerous flooding videos revealed significant sheet flow runoff into residential properties, raising valid concerns from residents. In response, I worked with staff to evaluate whether current city procedures and code adequately address these risks. Based on that review—and in alignment with past concerns raised by staff and residents—I have submitted an agenda item for May 15 that proposes referral of draft drainage ordinance amendments to the appropriate Commissions (P&Z and BSC) for fine-tuning and recommendation.
The proposed amendments aim to:
- Require lot-level drainage and grading plans for all new residential construction,
- Prohibit unpermitted topographic alterations that alter flow,
- Establish a formal complaint review and enforcement process with timelines,
- Clarify when builders or property owners must take corrective action for offsite drainage impacts,
- And close current gaps between Chapters 3, 3.5, 10, and 14—ensuring consistent application across subdivisions, infill lots, and PDDs.
I respectfully ask for your support in referring this to P&Z and BSC so the process can move forward. This is not a final ordinance—it's a policy framework in need of refinement. I’ve also posted a copy of the referral packet and Council cover sheet with the agenda item for your review.
