Keynotes Progress, Optimism after Hurricane & Floods
Emmett says Partnerships Forged in Disasters Result In Greater Public Trust, More Efficient Responses To Challenges
HARRIS COUNTY – Harris County Judge Ed Emmett presented his 11th annual State of the County Address last Thursday, at a luncheon at NRG Center, on the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Ike’s devastating arrival, noting that county residents have emerged from recent natural disasters better prepared, better educated and more determined to take the steps needed to combat such challenges in the future.
Emmett focused on partnerships and sounded an optimistic tone, addressing a sold-out event of more than 1,000 attendees at the annual speech at the county-owned NRG Center. The event is sponsored by the Greater Houston Partnership.
He noted that a recent series of nearly two dozen “community engagement meetings” focusing on the county’s recent $2.5 billion flood bond issue resulted not only in an overwhelming margin of victory, but further strengthened the ties between Harris County residents and their employees and officials.
“It was an amazing sight to behold,” Emmett said. “At every meeting, county residents of all types met face-to-face with county employees, many of whom spend most of their time behind desks. Suddenly, a human element came into focus instead of abstract numbers and plans. County employees were energized, and the public believed and trusted them. On Aug. 25th, the one-year anniversary of Harvey, Harris County voters approved the flood mitigation bond with 86% voting yes. On that day, Harris County became truly Harris County Strong.”
