What is the Harris County Flood Control District?
The Harris County Flood Control District is a special purpose district that plans, builds and maintains flood damage reduction projects in Harris County. Its stated mission is to plan, implement and maintain the systems that reduce flood risk in the county. The district says it aims to deliver flood damage reduction projects that work, with regard for community and natural values.
The district’s boundaries match those of Harris County, which covers 1,777 square miles. The district reports that the county had more than 4.7 million residents in the 2020 Census.
When was it created?
The Texas Legislature created the district in 1937. The Legislature acted after floods in 1929 and 1935 caused heavy damage in the Houston area.
Who governs the district?
The Harris County Commissioners Court is the district’s governing body. The court also makes annual allocations to the district.
What are the county’s watersheds?
The district divides the county into 23 primary watersheds. Each watershed has its own flooding problems. The district’s work includes stormwater detention basins. A detention basin stores excess stormwater during heavy rain and releases it slowly to the bayou once the flood threat passes.
How is the district funded?
Most of the district’s funding comes from a dedicated ad valorem property tax levied in Harris County. Other funding includes:
- Federal and state grants
- Cost-sharing agreements with other governments
- Annual allocations from the Commissioners Court
- Partnerships with local communities and private interests
What was the 2018 bond program?
On August 25, 2018, Harris County voters approved $2.5 billion in bonds to finance flood damage reduction projects.
How does the district relate to other agencies?
The district partners with federal and state agencies, local communities and private interests to fund and build projects. The property values behind the district’s tax are appraised by the Harris Central Appraisal District.