Harris County Flood Control District Proposition A: What it Means to Harris County Voters

About Proposition A 

Harris County has experienced its share of catastrophic flooding, from the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey to more recent storms that have pushed the county’s flood infrastructure to its limits. To address the growing threats posed by severe weather, Proposition A proposes a significant boost to the Harris County Flood Control District’s maintenance budget. The Proposition would add an additional $100 million per year, raising the total budget to $241 million annually. 

The increase in funding is aimed at bolstering flood prevention efforts and maintaining the county’s extensive network of bayous, drainage systems, and detention basins. These systems are essential for managing floodwaters during storms, but many of them are aging and in need of repair. With storms becoming more frequent and intense, the current budget is not enough. Proposition A seeks to not only maintain the existing infrastructure but also make necessary upgrades to protect Harris County from future floods. 

At its core, the Proposition’s goal is straightforward: to better protect the homes, businesses, and lives of Harris County residents. The additional funds would be used for critical maintenance projects like clearing debris and sediment from channels, replacing outfalls, and upgrading drainage systems. These efforts are key to preventing floods in both urban and rural areas of the county. 

The Proposition has sparked a lively debate in the community, with some residents fully supporting the investment in flood prevention, while others have voiced concerns. At a recent event held at the Hardy Community Center, citizens shared mixed feelings about the Proposition’s potential impact and the county’s ability to manage the extra funds effectively. 

What This Means for Property Owners in Harris County 

For property owners in Harris County, Proposition A would result in a slight increase in property taxes. Specifically, the Proposition proposes a $0.01581 increase per $100 of property valuation, meaning that the average homeowner would see an increase of approximately $60 per year. 

This increase is part of a broader effort by the Harris County Flood Control District to expand its capacity to reduce flooding risks. Since 2000, the Flood Control District has made significant strides, investing $5.2 billion in new projects aimed at protecting homes and businesses from flooding. These projects have helped to lower flood risks for thousands of residents. Over this time, the District has also doubled the amount of infrastructure acreage it maintains, ensuring that more areas are covered by flood control measures. 

For many property owners, the increase is seen as a worthwhile investment in safeguarding their homes and communities from the growing threat of severe weather and flooding. By providing additional funds for maintenance and infrastructure improvements, the goal is to continue building on the progress already made and to further reduce the county’s vulnerability to flooding. 

Community Reaction 

On Saturday, October 19, Houston City Beat attended one of the Harris County Flood Control District’s Open House events at the Hardy Community Center to hear what residents had to say about Proposition A. The responses were mixed, reflecting a range of opinions from different parts of the community. 

Some residents expressed opposition to the proposition, feeling that the increased budget wouldn’t necessarily benefit their specific neighborhoods. A local from Northeast Houston told us that their area has been overlooked for years. They don't see how an extra $100 million is going to change that. These individuals worry that their communities won’t be prioritized, even with the additional funding. 

There is also lingering distrust from the county’s management of the 2018 Bond Program, which left some residents we spoke with feeling uncertain about how the new funds would be handled. One citizen told us that the last bond program didn’t seem to deliver what was promised. They wonder how taxpayers can trust the county with an expanding budget. 

Among more vulnerable populations, such as senior citizens, there are concerns about the practicality of these improvements. One elderly resident mentioned that most of these improvements don’t matter to them as they will probably not be alive to benefit from this increase in property taxes.   

However, many attendees expressed strong support for Proposition A, recognizing the long-term benefits of the additional funding. One of the citizens we spoke with told us that an extra fifty more dollars a year in property taxes seems like a small price to pay if it helps keep their house from flooding. These supporters believe that investing in flood prevention now is essential, especially given the increasing frequency and intensity of storms in the Houston area. 

As the public continues to engage with the Proposition through upcoming meetings, it’s clear that while some skepticism exists, many residents see Proposition A as a necessary investment for Harris County’s future. 

Future Engagement Opportunities 

The conversation around Proposition A is far from over, and Harris County residents will have more chances to get involved in the decision-making process. Two upcoming virtual meetings will provide a platform for citizens to ask questions, voice concerns, and learn more about how the additional $100 million per year will be used. 

For more information, visit www.hcfd.org/PropA. 

The remaining virtual meetings are scheduled for: 

Thursday, October 24, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.   

Wednesday, October 30, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. 

These sessions offer a valuable opportunity for residents to engage directly with officials from the Harris County Flood Control District. Whether you’re skeptical about how the funds will be managed or eager to support the Proposition, these meetings provide a space to continue the dialogue and ensure that all voices are heard. For those unable to attend, written comments or questions can also be submitted and addressed during the sessions. 

Community engagement is crucial in shaping how Proposition A moves forward. Whether residents are in favor or concerned about the county’s ability to manage the increased budget, these virtual meetings offer a chance for everyone to stay informed and involved in the process. 

As we approach election day on November 5th 2024, it's essential for Harris County residents to engage in the democratic process and make their voices heard. Proposition A is a critical measure that will impact flood prevention and maintenance funding in our community. Every vote matters, especially in local politics where decisions directly affect our lives and neighborhoods. We encourage everyone to go out and vote, carefully consider the implications of Proposition A, and make the best decision for themselves and their families. Your participation in the election is vital for shaping a safer, more resilient Harris County for all. 



Impact on Commercial Property Owners



In addition to the estimated $50 per year tax increase for residential property owners, the Harris County Flood Control District confirmed the financial impact on commercial property owners. According to the Office of Management and Budget, if Proposition A passes, commercial property owners would see an increase of approximately $158 annually per $1 million of taxable property value. Houston City Beat was provided this information by Emily Woodell, Chief External Affairs Officer of the Harris County Flood Control District.