July 11
District sends well water contamination alert
Threats of well contamination due to post flood event runoff has prompted a warning from the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District (CTGCD). Officials revealed that, “Recent flooding in Burnet County has potentially contaminated groundwater sources, particularly shallow aquifers like the Ellenburger-San Saba Aquifer.”
July 15
Debris posing health, safety risk on waterways
The Lower Colorado River Authority is alerting Highland Lakes area residents of the perils of getting on the lakes in the aftermath of the Independence Day weekend flood event. “With debris from recent flooding still an issue in parts of the Highland Lakes, the Lower Colorado River Authority is urging people to use extra caution on the lakes and to avoid being on the lakes at night,” said LCRA spokeswoman Clara Tuma in a statement. “Bacteria levels typically remain elevated for a couple of weeks after flood events, and swimmers risk coming in contact with E. coli and other bacteria.
July 18
Rodeo organizers plan tribute to VFD fire chief
A community shellshocked by the loss of a fire chief during a flood event will have a chance to witness a tribute to the fallen first responder at the Marble Falls Rodeo. As of Tuesday, July 15, emergency crews suspended the rescue operation of Marble Falls Area VFD Chief Michael Phillips, formerly Marble Falls ISD director of maintenance. Nearly two weeks later, volunteers are committed to continuing to search for his remains in the aftermath of flash flooding. “I’m heart broke. I haven’t had any time to process it because my focus is finding Michael Phillips,” said Burnet County Pct. 4 Constable Millicent “Missy” Bindseil, who also coordinates the rodeo’s annual First Responders Night.
July 22
First responders night
July 22
TxDOT fast tracks bridge fix
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) officials have put the pedal to the metal to fix a flooddamaged bridge that cut off Marble Falls from Lago Vista and Cedar Park. The state agency awarded an emergency contract last week to rebuild the RM 1431 bridge over Cow Creek. The 240-ft. long bridge, which is located in Travis County just east of the Burnet County line, was built in the 1960s.
Floodwaters ripped it way on July 5. TxDOT reported that “more than 3,500 vehicles a day travel RM 1431 in this area, a vital east-west route.”
July 22
FEMA sets up shop in Burnet
A Disaster Recovery Center will open Sunday, July 20, in Burnet County to offer face-to-face help to survivors who had damage or losses from the severe storms and flooding in Central Texas.
Homeowners, renters and eligible non-residents may receive FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance. Survivors with homeowner’s or renter’s insurance should first file a claim with their insurance company as soon as possible. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
July 25
Post flood reports show Lake Buchanan 100% full
Lower Colorado River Authority officials offered some insight recently to those unfamiliar with the function of the Highland Lakes system of dams and water releases post flood events. As of July 24, LCRA officials say the waterway is 100% full.
July 25
County allots $20K for transmission line advice
County officials have opted to lay the groundwork for what could become a potential legal fight against a Lower Colorado River Authority transmission line project. The Burnet County Commissioners Court has directed County Attorney Eddie Arredondo and General Counsel Randy Leavitt to engage a law firm to advise and represent the county in response to the planned extension of an electrical transmission line that could traverse the north end of the county.
July 29
District board eases groundwater restrictions
During their recent meeting, the Central Texas Groundwater Conservation District Board of Directors eased restrictions on groundwater use that have been in effect since Jan. 1. Stage 4 mandatory annual reduction of groundwater use by 15% is out. Stage 2 voluntary reduction of groundwater use is in until further notice. Rainfall between 15 to 24 inches across Burnet County during the July 4 flood event influenced the board decision during the July 28 meeting.
Aug. 1
Community mourns at fallen fire chief 's memorial
On July 29, at 3 p.m. at Marble Falls High School auditorium, an End of Watch Memorial was held for Marble Falls Area VFD Chief Michael Phillips to honor his life, pay respects to his family and give the community a chance to mourn the loss. Phillips was swept away by flood waters as he was headed to an emergency on Independence Day weekend.
On July 8, a group of young volunteers hauled damaged carpet material from a Burnet home.
Photos by Martelle Luedecke/ Luedecke Photography
Two firefighters embrace in grief following the vigil for their missing Marble Falls Area VFD chief, Michael Phillips, who disappeared during a rescue mission in the July 5 flood.
Contributed photos
The community can pay their respects on the grounds of the Marble Falls Area VFD fire station, 606 Avenue U, following the loss of their fire chief after a flooded out bridge collapsed.
Brittney Dickens/Cactus Creek Rodeo Photography
The widow, Cecelia Phillips, family and other loved ones were presented with a ceremonial flag in honor of the late Marble Falls Area Fire Chief Michael Phillips.
Photo by Martelle Luedecke/Luedecke Photography
