In response to the recent flooding and other weather-related events caused by Tropical System Imelda (i.e. Tropical Storm Imelda and Tropical Depression Imelda), Mayor Turner declared a local state of disaster.
The proposed ordinance would extend the local state of disaster proclamation that began on September 17, 2019. Chapter 418 of the Texas Government Code establishes a coordinated system for local disaster responses that ties into State and federal disaster programs.
To effectuate an immediate response effort, the presiding officers of local political subdivisions are authorized to declare a local disaster by proclamation. However, Chapter 418 of the Texas Government Code requires action by the governing body for the declaration of a local state of disaster to extend more than seven days.
The City's Emergency Management Coordinator has requested the declaration be continued. The attached Ordinance would accomplish that purpose.
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Ronald C. Lewis, City Attorney
City of Houston Legal Department