Flood Mitigation At Center Of New Austin City Council Resolution

AUSTIN, TX — Austin City Council on Wednesday passed a resolution sparking an upcoming inventory of municipal flood mitigation efforts and assess risk of natural disaster.

District 2 Council member Vanessa Fuentes authored the resolution that secured sponsorship with counterparts on the dais. The resolution directs the city manager to provide an update on the Resilient Austin resolution adopted last year and to compile an inventory of flood mitigation efforts to date. The resolution also triggers a Watershed Protection Department to develop a new strategic plan replacing a former master plan while considering changes to the Land Development Code based on recommendations from the original Flood Mitigation Task Force, officials said.

Additionally, the resolution includes details directing the city manager to develop a scope of work around a plan implementing equitable and resilient measures for residents negatively affected by flood events in the City’s most vulnerable areas, officials explained.

"Recognizing the significant needs of my community, on the campaign trail I committed to bringing forth a resolution prioritizing flood risk reduction, and I am thrilled to be able have done that so quickly," Fuentes said. "With support from my colleagues, the city will continue to focus on the most disaster affected areas through the use of the Watershed Protection Department’s new strategic plan, proposed changes to the Land Development Code, and collaboration through the city’s resilience efforts to address social inequities caused by these catastrophic events."

The municipal revamping is potentially life-saving, Fuentes suggested: "It is essential that this issue remains a priority in order to prevent further loss of life and displacement, which unfortunately disproportionately effects the most vulnerable members of our community,” she said.

Council members sponsoring the resolution spoke to its importance:

• District 7 council member Leslie Pool: “It is critical for us to reduce flood risk in our communities facing the effects of these natural disasters as well as socio-economic challenges. This action will move us further toward environmental, economic, and social resiliency.”
• District 9 council member Kathie Tovo: “We know our most vulnerable communities will be disproportionately impacted by the effects of a changing climate, and this important effort will build resilience and ensure we are doing our utmost to prepare and protect the life and property of Austinites in case of future extreme events.”
• District 10 council member Alison Alter: “As we continue to face the threat of climate change and extreme weather events, I'm committed to doing everything I can to ensure our city is safer and more resilient to floods. This resolution builds on important work including our Declaration of a Climate Emergency, and I'm proud to help advance this item alongside Council Member Fuentes and my colleagues.”