Many of you are already aware of the impending change in the floodplain elevation on Lake Travis.  In a few months, the level will be officially changed by FEMA from 716’ to 722’ MSL (the Village of Point Venture has a one foot freeboard that brings the level to 723’ for the required elevation of the lowest floor of new or substantially improved structures).  You are receiving this letter if we have determined your lot is now or will be included in the new floodplain.  Within Point Venture, there will be 293 lots in the new floodplain which is an increase of 22 over the old level.  

The Village of Point Venture has adopted a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance (2002-12-01) which is required by FEMA before home owners within the municipality can obtain flood insurance.  Most lenders, especially those that are federally backed, require flood insurance if any portion of your lot falls within a floodplain.  If you have a mortgage on improvements to your lot, you should check with your lender as to their requirements.  If you need to obtain flood insurance, consult with the company that provides your homeowners insurance (townhouse owners contact the company that provides the contents coverage sometimes referred to as renters or condo insurance).  You will need to provide them with an elevation certificate completed by a licensed professional engineer, architect, or land surveyor.  You may already have paid for such a certificate; so, be sure to check your file of closing papers.   Some companies that provide these services are listed below.

Existing structures can have flood insurance rates grandfathered at the old level.  If your elevation certificate shows the lowest floor at an elevation below 723’ MSL , you may want to obtain flood insurance before the new elevation is finalized later this year.  Maintaining continuous coverage will assure your rating level is not affected by the FEMA changes.  This would be important to your resale value should a prospective buyer want, or be required to obtain flood insurance.  

Any construction that will alter the present drainage flow or water displacement within the floodplain must be approved by the BC/ACC prior to work being started.  A floodplain permit is required for these projects.  It is our opinion that most improvement projects have a very positive impact on the individual property and the community as a whole; however, it is our responsibility to uphold the ordinances of the Village of Point Venture.  

If you believe there is no portion of your lot below the 722’ level, you may be correct even though you have received this letter.  Please contact the village office at 512/267-5511 or email floodplain.administrator@vopv.org to discuss the details of your situation.  

Please remember, this change in floodplain elevation is being made by FEMA.  The Village of Point Venture is mandated with the responsibility of enforcing the ordinance which is required by FEMA.  As floodplain administrator, I must follow specific guidelines and regulations prescribed by the ordinance or FEMA.  Please do not shoot the messenger!  I have placed some links on the website to help provide more information.  The site address is www.vopv.org then click on floodplain information.

Thank you for your cooperation,
Mike Leathers
Floodplain Administrator
Village of Point Venture