Title
Receive an update from the Valwood Improvement Authority related to its current operations, budget, financial outlook, services, capital projects, strategic priorities, measurable outcomes, and future initiatives, including opportunities to strengthen coordination with the City and advance shared economic development and community goals.
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REQUESTOR:
Mayor Pro Tem David Reid
BACKGROUND:
The Valwood Improvement Authority (VIA) is a special-purpose governmental district serving the Valwood area within Farmers Branch and Carrollton. The district was originally created in 1974 as Dallas County Levee Improvement District No. 16 and was subsequently reorganized by the Texas Legislature as the Farmers Branch-Carrollton Flood Control District. In 1989, the Legislature changed the district’s name to the Valwood Improvement Authority.
VIA was established to provide and maintain flood-control infrastructure necessary to support development within the Valwood area. Its infrastructure includes a system of levees, channels, pump stations, and related improvements designed to manage flood risk and protect properties within the District. The Authority operates as a separate governmental entity with its own statutory responsibilities, governance, finances, and taxing authority.
VIA is governed by a seven-member Board of Directors. The City of Farmers Branch appoints three members, the City of Carrollton appoints three members, and the Dallas County Commissioners Court appoints one member. Directors serve staggered two-year terms. Farmers Branch appointees must meet the eligibility requirements established by state law, including applicable property-ownership requirements within the District.
Although VIA operates independently from the City of Farmers Branch, its activities directly affect infrastructure, flood protection, property, and economic development within a significant portion of the Valwood area. The Authority therefore serves as an important intergovernmental partner in planning, financing, operating, and maintaining infrastructure within its statutory authority.
The VIA District generally encompasses the area between Belt Line Road and Interstate Highway 635 and between the President George Bush Turnpike and Interstate Highway 35E. The City of Farmers Branch appoints three representatives to the VIA Board consistent with the Authority’s governing legislation.
DISCUSSION:
At the request of Mayor Pro Tem David Reid, a representative of the Valwood Improvement Authority will provide the City Council with an update on the Authority’s current operations, budget and financial outlook, services, capital projects, strategic priorities, measurable outcomes, and future initiatives.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
DISTRICT:
District 3
POSSIBLE COUNCIL ACTION:
N/A
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Valwood Improvement Authority Update Documentation