group that has been working across the county along with the Kerrville Chamber of Commerce and Hunt Preservation Society and other Chambers of Commerce to get a grip on what the true economic needs are.” The group is implementing a rebuild program that will provide financial and material relief to businesses with direct flood damage, while case managers offer counseling and mentoring to help sustain operations. The seasonal nature of Hill Country tourism adds complexity to the recovery timeline. Hagemeier notes concerns about impacts during the holiday season and next summer. Despite these challenges, Bock emphasizes that Kerr EDC’s core mission continues. “The focus of Kerr EDC will continue to be during and after disaster the business retention and expansion program, workforce development and diversification of our industry through attraction,” he says. HOUSING RECOVERY AND REBUILDING LIVES The Community Foundation received over $100 million in donations following the flood, and at the request of the governor, they designated $40 million specifically for housing recovery. While most housing damage occurred in Kerr County outside city limits, the concentrated nature of the devastation created opportunities for coordinated rebuilding efforts. “The number of affected homes in Kerrville, fortunately for us, was limited,” says Michael Hornes, Assistant City Manager. “Most everyone was out of the flood plain and floodway. Speaking to the donations, I think one of the things you see is the amount of support we received nationally, and how many people have shown up for Kerrville. The amount of support that we’ve gotten is incredible.” Habitat for Humanity is managing the eastern portion of recovery efforts through Kerrville, while Hunt Preservation Society handles western Kerr County. Bock confirms this division of responsibilities, noting the scale of volunteer engagement that immediately followed the disaster. Hornes describes the phased approach to housing restoration.“Immediately after 93 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 11 KERRVILLE, TX
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx