Addressing Drainage Issues in Encino Park: A Long-Standing Problem

Living in Encino Park can be a beautiful experience, but when it rains, problems start pouring in. Bradley Jonietz, a resident of the area, has been dealing with drainage issues caused by the Sienna Basin for over six years. The situation has become so severe that residents are in desperate need of a solution to this ongoing problem.

Recently, city crews have begun construction to address the drainage issues for homes on Encino Crown and Encino Summit. However, Jonietz, who lives on Encino Cliff, feels left out as his street was not included in the current project. According to city officials, the Sienna Basin is divided into two parts: north and south. The focus is currently on the Southern Basin, leaving residents like Jonietz in the Northern Basin waiting for a solution.

Victoria Escobedo, an engineering programs manager with Public Works, assured residents that progress is being made. The Northern Basin has been investigated, and there is an unfunded project in the works. However, the timeline for completion and funding for the Northern Basin remains uncertain.

District 9 Councilman John Courage mentioned that he is looking into the demand for addressing the drainage issues in the Northern Basin. When questioned about why the Northern basin wasn’t included in the current project, Courage mentioned that he was not aware of the details or the public outcry regarding funding concerns for that area.

This response came as a shock to residents like Jonietz, who have been actively advocating for a solution to the drainage problems. Jonietz and his family have met with representatives from the District 9 office multiple times to address the issue. Neighbors, including Andy Parada, who have been spearheading efforts to find a solution, confirmed that Encino Cliff was always a part of their community plan.

The history of the Sienna Basin dates back to its days as a Longhorn ranch, but with the onset of construction for a housing development by Meritage Homes and engineering by Pape-Dawson, the flooding issues in the surrounding community began to escalate in 2018. Jeremy Flach, the Meritage Homes Division President of San Antonio, emphasized their commitment to corporate and environmental stewardship, stating that their development and construction work followed approved engineering designs and industry standards.

As the community in Encino Park continues to grapple with drainage issues, it’s clear that more efforts are needed to address the ongoing challenges caused by the Sienna Basin. Residents are hopeful that City officials will prioritize the Northern Basin and provide a solution to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in the area.