Councilmember email Re: District G Flooding

From: districtg@cityofhouston.net
To:
Subject: Flooding in District G
Date: Wed, 6 May 2009 17:16:22 -0500

The flooding event of last week was particularly damaging to homes in District G neighborhoods. While the City cannot predict when the next flooding event will occur, it can take the steps necessary to protect its citizens in the future by keeping storm sewers well maintained and implementing new Capitol projects where needed as development occurs and systems become outdated.

I have received many calls and e-mails regarding the need for drainage improvements in specific neighborhoods across District G. Each of your requests has been submitted to the Public Works and Engineering Department for their expert evaluation. It is very important that you continue to report the needs that exist at individual addresses by also contacting the City’s 3-1-1 Service Help Line. While 3-1-1 may not be able to offer immediate assistance to long term needs, the system does maintain a record of your call and serves as a tool for the Public Works Department to track the number of issues in a specific neighborhood and will assist the department in determining how to prioritize projects throughout the city.

Because the extensive damage sustained, the City will also pick up flood debris from neighborhoods if addresses are reported to 311 or by contacting my office at 832-393-3007.

Currently the City is struggling to maintain our public infrastructure and is continually playing catch up. As the City Council moves forward into FY 2010 Budget deliberations I will fight for a more balanced budget that will provide an equitable funding balance for all core services including improved infrastructure.

Pam Holm

Council Member
District G