Garcia: City of Harlingen's proposed new drainage ordinance falls short

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. And he rejected a proposed new drainage ordinance developed by the City of Harlingen.“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 told The Rio Grande Guardian. “Even the City of San Benito has a better drainage policy than Harlingen.”Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.