HOUSTON – Dr. Tina Petersen, executive director of the Harris County Flood Control District, has resigned from her position, according to confirmation from officials.
The resignation was confirmed Thursday by the Flood Control District. The agency later released a statement thanking Dr. Petersen for her contributions. No details have been released regarding the circumstances surrounding her departure.
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Her resignation comes as Harris County Commissioners Court recently passed motions introduced by Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones aimed at keeping federally funded flood mitigation projects on schedule.
Concerns were previously raised by the Texas General Land Office commissioner about potential missed deadlines tied to critical infrastructure work.
In a statement, Briones praised Petersen’s leadership and emphasized the need to maintain momentum on flood control projects during the transition. The full statement will be included at the bottom of this article.
“Over the past five years, Dr. Tina Petersen has led the Harris County Flood Control District with distinction,” a section of Commissioner Briones’ statement read. “As the first woman to lead the district in its 89-year history, she broke barriers. I am grateful for the deep expertise, professionalism, and spirit of collaboration that have defined her tenure.”
Officials say more information will be released as it becomes available.
This is a developing story.
Full statement from Harris County Flood Control District
“Today, Harris County Administrator Erica Lee Carter received and accepted the resignation of Dr. Tina Petersen, P.E., Director of the Harris County Flood Control District.
In her resignation letter, Dr. Petersen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve Commissioners Court and the residents of Harris County. I want to thank her for her service and contributions to the County.
During this transition, the Office of County Administration will work closely with Flood Control District leadership to support ongoing operations and ensure continued progress on high-priority infrastructure and flood mitigation projects.
Commissioners Court is expected to discuss next steps for the Flood Control District at the June 25, 2026, Business Court meeting."
FULL STATEMENT FROM HARRIS COUNTY JUDGE LINA HIDALGO:
“It’s always difficult to make personnel changes, especially at the highest levels of county government. We’re making a bet that a change in leadership will result in clearer communication with both Commissioners Court and the residents, but this is a necessary step for us to be able to get these projects back on track.
“This was not an easy process, but I believe it is the right decision. I look forward to appointing Dr. Petersen’s successor at the next business Court. I appreciate everything she has done for Harris County, and I wish Dr. Petersen the best in her future endeavors.”
FULL STATEMENT FROM COMMISSIONER BRIONES:
“Over the past five years, Dr. Tina Petersen has led the Harris County Flood Control District with distinction. As the first woman to lead the district in its 89-year history, she broke barriers. I am grateful for the deep expertise, professionalism, and spirit of collaboration that have defined her tenure. Thanks to her leadership, we have more flood control projects moving forward than at any time in Harris County history and have made unprecedented investments in maintenance. We are moving with urgency to deliver key projects in collaboration with our partners at the state and federal levels.
Nothing is more important than keeping our families safe from flooding. My focus will always be timely delivery of flood control projects to protect our homes, strengthen our communities, and keep Harris County residents safe. Dr. Petersen will partner with us to ensure a smooth transition and prevent any delays on critical projects. I thank her for her service to Harris County.
My focus remains the same: relentlessly delivering progress and protection for the people of Harris County”