What matters

Flood Protection

Flood protection is one of the most important long term responsibilities facing Harrison Hot Springs.

We live beside Harrison Lake and are surrounded by waterways. Our flood planning needs to consider Harrison Lake, the Harrison and Miami Rivers, heavy rainfall, groundwater, drainage and seepage through or underneath flood protection works.

We also need to be prepared for atmospheric river events. Extended periods of intense rainfall can put pressure on rivers, drainage systems and flood protection infrastructure at the same time. We need to plan for what happens when several of these conditions occur together, not look at each one in isolation.

I believe we need a clear understanding of the condition of Harrison's existing flood protection system, including which sections meet current standards, which do not and what work is still required.

Residents should be able to easily find information about where flood protection projects stand, what they are expected to cost, what funding has been secured and what still needs to be done.

Flood protection also needs to be coordinated with our stormwater system. Keeping rising water out is only part of the challenge. During a major rainfall or flood event, we need to know how water within the Village will drain or be pumped out and whether those systems are prepared for the conditions we could face.

We also need regular inspections, maintenance and emergency planning so problems are identified before an emergency occurs.

Residents deserve to understand the risks, the plan and the progress being made.

Flood protection is not something we can wait to deal with after the water starts rising.

We need to understand the risks, maintain what protects us today and have a realistic long term plan for the work still ahead.