Lake Dunlap community working to save lake following spillgate failure

The Lake Dunlap community is working on a way to save their lake after a spillgate failure at the dam back in May caused the lake to drain. 

Repairs are currently on hold and the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, who runs the dam, said funding is the key issue for fixing the spillgate. They said the money they get from selling energy the dam generated is not enough to cover the potential $35 million in repair costs.

"If we don't do this it's over, it won't get repaired," said J Harmon, president of the Preserve Lake Dunlap Association. Harmon watched as water drained behind his home from the popular lake in the seconds. 

"It went back from Lake Dunlap to the Guadalupe River as it was," said Harmon. 

The incident also had an impact on the city of Kyle's water supply as it's one of their suppliers. As the water dropped so did property values and revenue for businesses. 

"Most people want their lake back most people want their way of life back," said Harmon. 

A spokesperson for the GBRA said gathering the $35 million for repairs is an issue. They tried to look for grants with the state and the federal government but couldn't find any. They even tried FEMA but said there wasn't an option.

Those who live along the lake are looking to get something done now. Harmon is looking to form a new water district to help cover repair costs.

"The plan is to create a district and accept the taxes the way they are that includes myself, I'm actually going to tax myself," said Harmon.

This new water district will include the GBRA, Guadelupe County and lake front property owners only. Taxes from the property owners and investments from the two agencies would help cover the repair costs.

"Hopefully we can get this passed and get the funding set up," said Harmon.

Harmon said if everything falls into place they could begin construction next year and finally save their lake. They are still hammering out the details, like how much the taxes would be. Harmon said they will also need majority approval from the property owners.