'Flooding is our number one natural disaster' | Breaking down the voter-approved Harris County Flood Control District tax rate hike

HOUSTON — In an era of ever-skeptical voters, the Harris County Flood Control District is grateful so-called Proposition A was approved Tuesday night.

“We know that voters made a thoughtful decision,” HCFCD executive director Tina Petersen said.

She said the nearly 60% hike in the agency’s tax rate will pay for, among other things, expanded maintenance throughout the system.

“Fixing ditches that have eroded away, removing sediment that is blocking outfalls and clogging our channels, removing debris,” said Petersen.

We found a crew doing similar work Wednesday along Willow Waterhole Bayou in the Westbury area.

“What is really unique about this is that it will provide a sustained and continued source of funding,” said Petersen. “Something that we have never had before.”

So, what does it mean in dollars and cents for the average Harris County homeowner?

About $60 per year in your overall tax bill, based on the average value of a home with a homestead exemption.

“Nobody wants to pay more taxes,” said Meyerland homeowner Richard Reingold.  “Just use the money more wisely.”

Reingold’s home has flooded multiple times and he said he appreciates improvements along Braes Bayou funded by a 2018 bond and believes long-term maintenance is a worthy investment.

“Everything we can do to make sure citizens and other neighborhoods, not just this one, are not going to flood is fabulous,” said Reingold.

Peterson said anywhere in Harris County runs the risk.

“Flooding is our number one natural disaster and everyone is affected by it in some way,” said Petersen.

Proposition A passed with a little more than 51% of the vote.

It was put on the ballot by a bi-partisan, unanimous decision by the commissioner’s court.