Lago Vista City Council Approves Water Regulation Changes Amid Drought Discussions

The Lago Vista City Council convened on August 7, 2025, to address several key issues, primarily focusing on updates to the city's drought contingency plan and water restrictions.

The meeting began with discussions on the need to modify the drought contingency plan to align with recent updates from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA). Council members expressed a desire to implement quick changes to the plan, suggesting a shift from mandatory ("shall") to permissive ("may") language in certain sections. This adjustment aims to provide flexibility while ensuring compliance with LCRA guidelines. The council agreed to revisit the plan in future meetings to incorporate additional necessary modifications.

A significant point of discussion was the classification of irrigation methods, particularly the encouragement of drip irrigation as an efficient watering practice. Council members noted that other municipalities allow drip irrigation under certain conditions, which could promote better water conservation practices among residents. The council considered the implications of current drought conditions and the potential for more lenient watering guidelines, including the possibility of allowing hand watering and drip irrigation daily.

Following these discussions, a motion was made to approve the proposed changes to the drought contingency plan. The motion passed unanimously, allowing for the immediate implementation of the simpler changes while deferring more complex revisions for future consideration.

The council then shifted its focus to the current water restriction stages. Members debated whether to revert to "Stage 0" water restrictions, given the ample water supply in local reservoirs. Some council members argued that maintaining stricter restrictions could be beneficial for long-term water conservation, while others emphasized the need to honor existing agreements with residents regarding water usage. Ultimately, the council voted to remove Stage 2 restrictions and return to normal operations, which still include limits on watering days.

In addition to water management discussions, the council received updates from various city staff and committees. Notably, the Building and Standards Commission is expected to present recommendations on drainage issues in the upcoming meetings, reflecting the council's commitment to addressing infrastructure challenges.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's proactive approach to water management and community engagement, with plans for further discussions and adjustments to ensure effective governance in Lago Vista.