The state of disaster initially expired Feb. 12 but will now be extended for an additional seven days, giving the city more time to acquire resources to clean and repair damages caused by the storm.
A disaster declaration provides the city with county and state resources. The city is coordinating with Hays County and Texas Department of Emergency Management.
Winter Storm Mara began Jan. 30, and the National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for the county that began Jan. 30 and ended 10 a.m. Feb. 2.
The storm caused power outages, debris from fallen tree limbs and loss of water pressure. Roads closed due to utility line obstructions and icy conditions. City parks and trails experienced temporary closures.
“This thing was crazy in my perspective,” said Foulds on Feb. 7. “We’ve got a list of our employees that worked some, if not the whole time.”
As of Feb. 7, the city has spent over $27,000 in response to the storm. Equipment and supplies purchased by the city include chipper attachments, chainsaw supplies and fuel at an estimated total of $2,875. An estimated total of $25,000 will be spent on contractors, which includes tree services and mowing.
Waste Connections will continue to pick up limbs during regular collection days for customers. Limbs must be bundled together and cut 4 to 5 feet max in length.
Dripping Springs Ranch Park will reopen tentatively on Monday, Feb. 13, for brush and limb drop off after reaching capacity Feb. 6. Ranch Park opened as a drop-off location for residents Feb. 2.
For more updates, visit www.cityofdrippingsprings.com.
