LCRA is hosting public hearings April 12 and 13 to gather comments on floating habitable structures on the Highland Lakes.

In October, LCRA’s Board of Directors voted to put a hold on construction of any floating habitable structures on the Highland Lakes because of concerns over the potential impact to water safety and quality. The moratorium, which will last until Oct. 31, 2011, applies to floating structures that contain commercial or domestic sleeping quarters such as homes, residential developments, resorts, hotels and other similar structures on lakes Buchanan, Inks, LBJ, Marble Falls and Travis.

LCRA’s Highland Lakes Marina Ordinance and other LCRA regulations do not specifically address floating habitable structures. The moratorium does not apply to traditional residential boat docks or marina facilities that do not contain habitable structures.

In September, LCRA employees reported to the LCRA Board that rapid population growth, a trend toward changes in real estate use, and the types of future development being considered on the Highland Lakes have the potential to impact water safety and water quality.

LCRA employees are gathering data to review the potential impacts of these structures and coordinate with other governmental entities with applicable jurisdiction. They also want public input on the issue before developing final recommendations for the LCRA Board.

During the hearings, LCRA employees will provide a brief overview on the topic and take public comments. The public hearings will take place at these locations:

• Lake Buchanan – Tuesday, April 12 -- 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at the LCRA Western District Complex, 8347 RR 1431 West, Buchanan Dam
• Lake Travis – Wednesday, April 13 -- 7 p.m.-9 p.m. at the Travis County Precinct Two Office Building, 4501 FM 620 North, Austin