Lago Vista council authorizes city manager to pursue SB3 siren funding with Travis County

The Lago Vista City Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 26-2192 on Jan. 14, authorizing the city manager to work with Travis County to participate in the SB3 emergency-siren funding program. The resolution does not commit the city to a purchase; it authorizes staff to negotiate and prepare to accept funding if available.

Councilors said the sirens would provide flood and other emergency warnings in flood‑prone and lakeside areas. "We have a lot of low water crossings and frontage on the lake," one councilor said, urging pursuit of funding to protect residents. Another councilor noted that a successful application should remain on the council agenda even if funding does not arrive so the project stays visible.

City staff noted the program requires coordination with the county and state-approved vendors, and that siting and coverage analysis would follow vendor mapping. Council discussed mechanical versus electronic sirens and the benefits of mechanical units for wide coverage; staff who had experience with both said mechanical sirens were more reliable in their experience.

The motion to approve the resolution was made by Mayor Pro Tem Owen and seconded; the vote was unanimous.

Next steps: the city manager will begin coordination with Travis County and state program contacts; staff will bring vendor recommendations and proposed siting maps back to council as they become available.