In recent years, I have often drawn an analogy between the wildfire dangers faced in California and the flooding challenges that beset the Texas Gulf Coast, particularly in the greater Houston area. The peril of fire in California is a burden that its residents must bear, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate the risk of devastation and loss of life. Similarly, we in Texas confront our own formidable challenge: the relentless threat of flooding.

The explosive development throughout our region has outpaced our infrastructure's ability to manage stormwater effectively. Our major waterways, creeks, and drainage systems lack the capacity to convey the increasing volumes of water generated by both natural events and urban growth. This is not a matter of being for or against development; rather, it is about maintaining rigorous standards and avoiding shortcuts that could exacerbate flooding risks.

History has taught us that we have fallen short in our flood management efforts. The catastrophic floods of 1979, 2001, and 2017 serve as stark reminders of our vulnerability. We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens over financial considerations. The cost of inaction—both in human lives and economic stability—far outweighs the expenses associated with necessary infrastructure improvements.

Throughout my tenure on the drainage board, I have passionately advocated for this cause, often met with skepticism and dismissive gestures. Yet, the urgency of our situation remains unchanged. I have engaged with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and communicated my concerns to local and federal representatives, urging for a unified and concerted effort to address these pressing issues.

Our local tax base, even when combined with the resources of the drainage districts and municipalities, cannot suffice to tackle the overwhelming challenges we face. We need substantial federal support and a collective voice from our community to catalyze meaningful change. While we can implement localized projects and create detention facilities, these measures will falter during significant flooding events when water inundates our low-lying neighborhoods.

In conclusion, the threat of flooding is our burden to bear along the Texas Gulf Coast. We must demand comprehensive federal investment to fortify our infrastructure against the increasingly severe flooding events of the future. We cannot rely on antiquated systems designed to handle water flows from decades past; our waterways must be equipped to manage the realities of today and tomorrow. It is imperative that we act decisively to protect our communities and preserve the safety and prosperity of our families.

With that said all of our prayers at the GCCDD go out to all people in California faced with this historic fire and devastation they are facing.

-- Rusty Burkett, GCCDD Board President