Bellaire Flood Hazard Task Force Public Hearing Tonight

BELLAIRE, TX — There will be a public hearing tonight in the Bellaire City Council chambers regarding the city's flood hazard mitigation plan. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. A task force was assigned in late 2017 to help develop meaningful, actionable solutions to the city's flooding problem and to satisfy the requirements for the city's continued participation in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System.

The Plan starts with a comprehensive risk assessment to identify and define flood hazards — local, regulatory and regional — and then proposes mitigation strategies to address those hazards, all leading to a tangible action plan. These steps are outlined in the form of a matrix, which is the Task Force’s principal working draft.

"As the Task Force talks through a variety of perspectives on the path to consensus, the matrix is updated to reflect the key points," Bellaire Mayor Andrew Friedberg wrote on his city blog. "The meetings are somewhat unstructured, deliberately, to allow the members to see where the discussion leads them. They’ve made great progress, and are now ready for a formal public hearing. Residents are encouraged to come share their thoughts and ideas for flood prevention generally, and to comment specifically on the current draft of the matrix. The Task Force will consider and incorporate public input as it continues to refine its recommendations."

Anyone wanting to learn more to prepare for the public hearing can view the matrix and other Task Force materials in the electronic notebook on the city's website. It includes all reports that have been presented to the Task Force, video recordings and notes of each meeting, and links to other relevant information.

Public participation in flood hazard mitigation planning is always important, but it goes without saying that the widespread impact of Hurricane Harvey on Bellaire has only heightened the need for it. The Task Force and its work product will benefit from as much public input as possible.

Let your voice be heard this coming Monday, January 29, at 6:30 pm in the Council Chamber.

Image: Homes remain flooded as Texas moved toward recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Harvey on September 4, 2017 in Houston, Texas. Almost a week after Hurricane Harvey ravaged the city, some neighborhoods still remained flooded and without electricity. While downtown Houston is returning to business, thousands continue to live in shelters, hotels and other accommodations as they contemplate their future. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)