KERRVILLE, Texas — Kerrville city leaders held a special meeting Monday, discussing flood recovery efforts and the city’s response.
City Manager Dalton Rice announced they have extended the disaster declaration while 161 people remain missing following the deadly Fourth of July floods.
Rice said Texas DPS has been providing them with the official state death toll numbers. He said he expects to receive current numbers from Kerr County later on Monday.
Assistant Manager Michael Hornes also mentioned obstacles emergency personnel have encountered during their operations. Nimitz Lake search efforts are reportedly difficult due to low visibility in the water and the substantial amount of debris.
Councilmembers said if residents or volunteers dump trash and debris themselves they will be required to pay a fee. The city is working with the Texas Department of Emergency Management and said if residents leave the debris in the right of way, workers should be stopping by to pick it up for free.
Council member Brenda Hughes mentioned that some staff members are receiving personal threats following the deadly floods, prompting them to ask for extra security from the state.
Officials also extended a suspension on all open records related to flooding.