Hardin County, Texas — Following another challenging year marked by extensive flooding, Hardin County Judge Wayne McDaniel is advocating for the creation of a drainage district to address and mitigate flood damage more effectively across the region. McDaniel shared his proposal in a recent Facebook post, highlighting the escalating urgency to initiate solid flood control measures.
McDaniel expressed in his post that while not all flooding incidents could be entirely prevented, the severity of such events could be considerably curtailed through the establishment of a dedicated drainage district. This entity would focus on building and maintaining essential infrastructure such as canals, drains, ditches, and levees aimed at reducing flood damage.
Acknowledging diverse opinions within the community, McDaniel noted that although the idea has not met universal approval, its implementation is nonetheless vital. “The formation of a Drainage District here is long overdue,” McDaniel indicated, emphasizing the recurring threat and the diminished efficacy of past measures.
For nearly two decades, Hardin County’s government has embarked on smaller-scale drainage improvement initiatives facilitated by Disaster Recovery Grants. Yet, these improvements have waned due to the absence of a structured mechanism for continued maintenance, highlighting a significant gap in the county’s current approach to managing such crises.
To bring this vision to fruition, McDaniel is seeking active participation from county residents. He stressed that the creation of the drainage district would require voter approval, initiated through a constituency-driven petition to the Commissioners Court.
McDaniel has detailed the procedural steps necessary for the district’s establishment and is hopeful for prompt action. By setting this measure in motion, he aims to place it on the electoral ballot by next year, allowing voters to make a timely decision on the proposed solution.
He expressed optimism that with public backing, these efforts could lead the way in effectively curbing future flooding risks exacerbated by increasingly frequent torrential rains, which have become more common over the past decade than in prior years.
The judge remains committed to advancing this crucial project, asserting that proper drainage management is imperative for safeguarding the region’s future against escalating flood damages.
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