Public Notice

Over the past few weeks, the City of Runaway Bay has been made aware of several social media videos and photos showing city infrastructure in various states of condition. It is very difficult for the city to determine whether the videos are accurate or whether the situations shown are actually in Runaway Bay or related to known current issues. Some of the issues have been located, verified, and corrected. Other photos that have been posted have been determined to be aged based on additional information shown in the same photo.

If you see or know of any infrastructure issues, please contact City Hall so we can address them. Do not assume that because it is on social media, the city is aware of the issue. Also, please do not approach any open manholes, lift stations, or other city infrastructure, as there may be hidden hazards that can and will harm you. A good rule of thumb is that if you feel it is important enough to post on social media, it is important enough to contact City Hall and inform the individuals who can make the needed repairs.

There have also been social media posts brought to our attention of an individual approaching city-owned equipment and facilities and physically handling elements of it while talking solely to elicit viewer reaction. If you feel that you must make these videos, that is your right as an American citizen. We ask that you also contact City Hall so the city staff can determine the appropriate course of action or repair.

However, some actions described and witnessed in those social media posts may be considered "tampering with city infrastructure". At this time, we do not believe the actions witnessed in those videos were intended to cause intentional harm to these facilities or sites. However, if an individual is witnessed, filmed, or found causing or attempting to cause harm to any city infrastructure facility or connected appurtenances (i.e., manholes, lift stations, fire hydrants, etc.), they may be subject to prosecution under state and federal laws.

If, at any time, you witness anyone near any city facility or other related infrastructure who is not actively working on the facility or system or acting suspiciously, please call City Hall or 911. Each report will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.

All city, state, and federal infrastructure facilities and associated appurtenances (Water, wastewater, electric, and natural gas) across the United States are classified as “Critical Infrastructure” and fall under the protective purview of the United States Department of Homeland Security. Convictions for any interference or tampering with these sites could result in up to a third-degree felony in Texas and may trigger FBI involvement and filing of additional federal charges, which may result in possible imprisonment and/or fines.

If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact City Hall.

Roddy Boston

Consulting Operator/RAB Task Force