Title
Discuss and consider action to approve a resolution consenting to, continuing, and renewing the Mayor's Disaster Declaration issued on March 4, 2026, imminent public water supply failure.
Summary
On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, the Mayor issued a disaster declaration after the City entered Stage 3 emergency water restrictions due to historically low water levels at Lake Pflugerville, the City’s primary water source. The declaration authorized the City Council to seek State assistance and take necessary actions to respond to the water shortage.
A broken pipeline supplying water to the lake caused water levels to decline, with projections showing continued drops into early 2026. Engineers warned that by mid April, lake levels could fall below the City’s water intake structure, potentially limiting the City’s ability to supply adequate drinking water and maintain critical services such as sanitation and firefighting. Due to this significant risk to public health and safety, the Mayor declared a local disaster.
The declaration enabled the City to request emergency assistance, funding, and technical support from the State of Texas. Under Texas law, the Mayor is authorized to declare a local disaster when an imminent threat to the community exists.
The declaration was extended on both March 10 and April 28, 2026 by Council action, with the current termination set to occur on June 10, 2026. City staff recommends extending the declaration until July 15, 2026, due to 1) the continuing uncertainty with respect to the construction schedule for both the completion of the new water line and repairs to the existing water line; and 2) any impact from weather events, as forecasted over the coming weeks.
Prior City Council Action
April 28, 2026 City Council continued and renewed the Mayor's Disaster Declaration
March 10, 2026 City Council continued and renewed the Mayor's Disaster Declaration
Supporting documents attached:
Disaster Declaration Resolution
Recommended Action
Discuss and consider action.