Valwood Improvement Authority says levees, pump stations maintained; no new projects planned, $5M in bond funds remain

Pat Knudson, executive director of the Valwood Improvement Authority, briefed Farmers Branch City Council July 15 on the district’s boundaries, completed projects, operations and finances. Knudson said the authority has finished previously approved projects, has no current bond sales planned, and holds slightly over $5 million in old bond funds for repairs and maintenance of levees, pump stations and equipment. Knudson outlined the Valwood district’s flood-control infrastructure: three lake "cells" for Mercer-area drainage, levees, two pump stations and associated equipment that handle drainage for roughly 1,200 acres in both Carrollton and Farmers Branch. He noted normal electricity for operations is modest but pumping during high-water events generates much larger monthly demand charges. The district also owns heavy equipment used for levee repairs and daily maintenance. Council members asked about future capital projects, resident notification and board composition. Knudson said no immediate projects are planned, although future repairs (rock armoring, slides) are possible and would require homeowner votes for bond elections. He also confirmed the district’s tax rate will decline when outstanding debt service ends; the capital fund still holds approximately $5 million and general fund balance is roughly $1 million. Council members raised website and transparency concerns; Knudson said meeting notices are posted with Dallas County and that website updates have lagged. Why it matters: Valwood owns and maintains regional flood-control infrastructure that protects parts of Farmers Branch and Carrollton; its finances and inspection procedures affect homeowner risk, local development and ongoing maintenance funding. Council directed staff to follow up on transparency, inspection reporting and board appointments.