A west Houston economic development group is urging Harris County leaders to take a much more aggressive approach to flood control in areas affected by the Addicks and Barker reservoirs.
The West Houston Association unveiled what it called a “comprehensive regional flood control plan” Tuesday.
The $32 billion proposal includes restoration of the Barker and Addicks reservoirs, building a third reservoir on Cypress Creek, increasing storm water conveyance and massive home buyouts.
The WHA proposes that the federal government pay for 90 percent, and state and local governments pay 10 percent.
The local contribution would include a proposed $2.2 billion bond paid for by a property tax increase for Harris County homeowners.
“What it means to the average home owner is about $8 a month, or $100 a year. A small increase that would be just dedicated to flood control,” said Augustus Campbell, president and CEO of the WHA.
Harris County Judge Ed Emmett previously said he would support a $1 billion bond measure. The WHA hopes to get its much larger initiative on the ballot for a vote in May.
Editor's note: An earlier version of this story reported that the proposal would cost $32 million. The story above has been corrected.