El Paso County judge signs local disaster declaration after flooding; What can the county do now?

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego signed a local disaster declaration on Tuesday in response to severe weather and flooding.

In a news release, the county said rainfall on Oct. 23-25 resulted in severe flooding, property damage and evacuations. With additional rainfall expected this week, concerns remain about more flooding and damage.

The emergency declaration activates emergency management and recovery efforts and authorizes the use of county resources to help affected residents, protect public safety and address impacts of severe weather.

Heavy rain over the weekend prompted families to evacuate their homes in West El Paso. Runoff from the rain flooded a Horizon City neighborhood on Monday, according to emergency crews.

Judge Samaniego said he signed the declaration at 1:28 p.m.

El Paso County Commissioner for Precinct 3, Iliana Holguin, said nine vacuum trucks have been stationed to remove floodwater in Horizon. The Texas Department of Public Safety is helping local agencies find the source of the runoff water.

According to Holguin, the declaration allows the county to:

• Remove floodwater from residents' homes rather than just public roads.
• Bypass the Purchasing Act if necessary for emergency equipment and services instead of going through a lengthy process.
• Reach out to state and federal governments for funding to help residents recover financially. Holguin suggested keeping receipts and documents of expenses in case funding becomes available. This includes hotel stays and repairs for property damage.

County officials said they're preparing a list of resources for residents to access online and in person. Additionally, the county is working with local organizations to establish temporary accommodations for families and their pets.

Judge Samaniego said the county is working to coordinate cleanup assistance and debris removal for families who may not have the equipment to do so.

Samaniego also mentioned working with the El Paso Community Foundation for opportunities to expand financial assistance and funding for affected residents. The county is reviewing existing grants to explore whether they can be used beyond their intended purpose.

Holguin said affected residents can contact her office to address their immediate needs by calling (915) 273-3595.