Dripping Springs extends disaster declaration

DRIPPING SPRINGS — In response to damages caused by the recent ice storm, Dripping Springs has extended its disaster declaration.

The storm, labeled as Winter Storm Mara, started to sweep across Central Texas on Jan. 30 causing major damage including massive power outages, debris from fallen tree limbs, low water pressure and icy roads.

“[Issuing a disaster declaration] allows the city access to resources, such as chippers, from the county and state,” said Laura Mueller, city attorney. “It allows us funding, reimbursements, personnel and equipment. That’s one of the main reasons why it’s so important.”

On Feb. 7, Dripping Springs City Council approved extending the declaration that mayor Bill Foulds issued on Feb. 5. It was initially set to expire on Sunday, Feb. 12, but will now be extended seven days to allow the city more time to recover from the storm.

“I foresee at least another two weeks of having debris and other cleanup continuing throughout the city,” said Roman Baligad, emergency management coordinator.

Dripping Springs Ranch Park is tentatively going to reopen as a brush and limb drop-off location from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13 through Sunday, Feb. 19.

Waste Connections will pick up debris on normal bulk/brush days. Customers should cut limbs up to 4 to 5 feet in length and not bundle more than 50 pounds per bundle or else they will not be collected. Pick-up times can be found by calling 512-282-3508.

Residents and businesses who have damage due to the ice storm should report the damage to the Texas Division of Emergency Management at www.damage.tdem.texas.gov/.