Economic "equity" to factor in future flood protection spending

HOUSTON (FOX 26) - Low income neighborhoods in Harris County may soon have an advantage in the competition for locally funded flood protection projects.

A spokesperson for Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo confirms Commissioners will consider economic vulnerability as a factor in future flood control spending.

Last August voters approved a $2.5 billion bond issue and a significant portion of that money has yet to be committed to specific projects.

Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia tells Fox 26 he welcomes the inclusion of social and economic "equity" in the decision making process.

"When it comes to resources and recovery support, not every community gets treated the same, prior to this administration," said Garcia.

Garcia says the equity initiative, which was also approved by voters, will not displace or delay any flood control project currently slated for construction.

"In my particular precinct, it's where all the water runs to. Knowing that, we have to have a conversation of how do we make all of Harris County more resilient," said Garcia.