HARLINGEN, Texas - According to civil and structural engineer, J.V. Garcia, a drainage ordinance being considered by the City of Harlingen should be rejected by the City Commissioners because it does nothing for the City of Harlingen.
On October 3, Garcia organized at Trail of Floods tour of Harlingen to highlight flood-prone areas.
State Rep. Eddie Lucio III opened the tour, which began at Victor Park in Harlingen.
Lucio said Garcia was relentless and passionate in advocating for issues he believes in.
“What is happening here today is an important part of the policy-making process. I assure you that as you organize and speak loudly, you will be heard,” Lucio said.
The tour concluded at the Harlingen Convention Center.
In an interview with the Rio Grande Guardian following the tour, Garcia proposed the creation of a Rio Grande Valley Flood Control District. He said that as a civil engineer he supports economic development and growth. However, he said a proposed new drainage ordinance developed by the City of Harlingen will make flooding worse.
“We are trying to encourage them to do something more, something better. At a minimum standard, adopt what the City of McAllen and Hidalgo County has, which is like the Gold Standard,” Garcia said. “Even the City of San Benito has a better drainage policy than Harlingen.”
Here is a podcast created from speeches and interviews at the Trail of Floods event:
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