1 00:00:00,336 --> 00:00:01,956 >> The broadcast is now starting. 2 00:00:01,956 --> 00:00:04,266 All attendees are in listen only mode. 3 00:00:08,686 --> 00:00:09,896 >> Good afternoon, everyone. 4 00:00:10,076 --> 00:00:11,366 The webinar will begin shortly. 5 00:00:11,366 --> 00:00:12,826 Please mute your microphones. 6 00:00:14,516 --> 00:00:15,696 Next slide, please. 7 00:00:18,146 --> 00:00:20,326 Before we get started, I'd like to go over a few items 8 00:00:20,456 --> 00:00:22,746 so that you know how to participate in today's event. 9 00:00:23,016 --> 00:00:27,356 We've taken a screenshot of an example of the attendee interface for your reference. 10 00:00:28,326 --> 00:00:32,026 You're currently listening in using your computer's speaker system by default. 11 00:00:32,266 --> 00:00:36,676 If you would prefer to join over the phone, please select phone call in the audio pane 12 00:00:36,676 --> 00:00:38,846 and the dial in information will be displayed. 13 00:00:39,956 --> 00:00:44,186 Please enter in any technical questions, audio, or other access issues 14 00:00:44,186 --> 00:00:46,396 that you may have into the question box. 15 00:00:47,376 --> 00:00:51,786 If you know of anyone who is having difficulty joining the webinar, they may call in. 16 00:00:52,666 --> 00:00:58,746 We will now enter the phone number and phone in information for the public into the chat box. 17 00:00:59,496 --> 00:01:03,396 If you are a member of the public having difficulty connecting to the webinar, 18 00:01:03,526 --> 00:01:06,706 you may call into this meeting using the audio and access -- 19 00:01:06,806 --> 00:01:08,566 audio, phone number, and access code provided. 20 00:01:09,356 --> 00:01:11,746 Please note that this phone number is for listening purposes only. 21 00:01:12,976 --> 00:01:17,556 Additionally, please do not type questions for the members or presenters into this box. 22 00:01:18,076 --> 00:01:20,596 The public will have the opportunity to provide comments 23 00:01:20,596 --> 00:01:25,216 and ask questions during the designated public comment periods As noted on the meeting agenda. 24 00:01:26,656 --> 00:01:31,796 Individuals who have registered using the online Public Comment Registration Form will be called 25 00:01:31,796 --> 00:01:35,606 upon and unmuted to provide their comments at the appropriate time. 26 00:01:36,506 --> 00:01:39,526 If you have not filled out the Public Comment Registration Form, 27 00:01:39,726 --> 00:01:44,266 but are a member of the public wishing to provide oral public comments, please either fill 28 00:01:44,266 --> 00:01:51,276 out the form now or raise your hand during the designated public comment period using the hand 29 00:01:51,276 --> 00:01:52,916 raise button provided on the screen. 30 00:01:58,246 --> 00:01:58,976 Next slide, please. 31 00:02:06,266 --> 00:02:07,416 Hello and welcome everyone. 32 00:02:07,466 --> 00:02:09,266 My name is James Bronikowski. 33 00:02:09,266 --> 00:02:11,766 I'm the Director of the Regional Flood Planning Department here 34 00:02:11,766 --> 00:02:12,986 at the Texas Water Development Board. 35 00:02:14,036 --> 00:02:15,036 Next slide, please. 36 00:02:17,696 --> 00:02:22,466 Before calling this afternoon's meeting to order, I'd like to do a roll call 37 00:02:22,466 --> 00:02:25,316 of all the voting members to make sure that we can -- 38 00:02:25,316 --> 00:02:29,846 so that we can establish a quorum before calling the meeting to order. 39 00:02:29,846 --> 00:02:34,816 So as I go down the list and call your name, please answer either yes or present, 40 00:02:34,816 --> 00:02:37,226 or some other answer in the affirmative. 41 00:02:39,576 --> 00:02:40,706 Joe Hinojosa? 42 00:02:41,006 --> 00:02:42,076 >> Present. 43 00:02:43,956 --> 00:02:45,296 >> Commissioner David Garza? 44 00:02:49,436 --> 00:02:52,886 I'm sorry, I wasn't be able to hear. 45 00:02:52,886 --> 00:02:54,356 >> Present. 46 00:02:54,456 --> 00:02:55,926 >> Thank you. 47 00:02:56,136 --> 00:02:57,636 Daniel Lucio? 48 00:02:58,656 --> 00:02:59,076 >> Present. 49 00:03:00,886 --> 00:03:02,366 >> Hudson DeYoe? 50 00:03:02,796 --> 00:03:03,486 >> I'm here. 51 00:03:05,116 --> 00:03:06,076 >> David Fuentes? 52 00:03:07,576 --> 00:03:08,116 >> Present. 53 00:03:09,596 --> 00:03:11,786 >> Joey Trevino? 54 00:03:12,716 --> 00:03:13,396 >> Present. 55 00:03:14,546 --> 00:03:16,896 >> Vanessa Rosales-Herrera? 56 00:03:19,396 --> 00:03:20,846 >> Present. 57 00:03:22,216 --> 00:03:23,216 >> Joe Califa? 58 00:03:24,856 --> 00:03:25,576 >> Present. 59 00:03:27,666 --> 00:03:28,566 >> Jose Caso? 60 00:03:29,236 --> 00:03:29,696 >> Present. 61 00:03:31,636 --> 00:03:32,516 >> Sonia Lambert? 62 00:03:33,126 --> 00:03:34,106 >> Present. 63 00:03:34,966 --> 00:03:36,806 >> And Riazul Mia? 64 00:03:38,226 --> 00:03:38,776 >> Present. 65 00:03:40,036 --> 00:03:43,186 >> And I apologize anyone if I've mispronounced your name correctly. 66 00:03:43,646 --> 00:03:47,116 Please correct me throughout the meeting if I do pronounce your name incorrectly. 67 00:03:47,116 --> 00:03:55,116 And I'd also like to call the names of the nonvoting members at this time. 68 00:03:55,396 --> 00:03:56,246 Shonda Mace? 69 00:03:57,086 --> 00:03:57,346 >> Present. 70 00:03:58,756 --> 00:03:59,996 >> David Ramirez? 71 00:04:01,336 --> 00:04:01,866 >> Present. 72 00:04:03,106 --> 00:04:04,136 >> Nelda Barrera? 73 00:04:06,716 --> 00:04:07,276 >> Present. 74 00:04:08,416 --> 00:04:09,086 >> Thank you. 75 00:04:10,056 --> 00:04:11,106 Tim Frere? 76 00:04:12,736 --> 00:04:13,176 >> Present. 77 00:04:17,306 --> 00:04:18,816 >> Willy Cupit? 78 00:04:20,446 --> 00:04:22,166 >> Yes. Willy Cupit, I'm here. 79 00:04:22,506 --> 00:04:23,236 >> Willy? Sorry. 80 00:04:23,456 --> 00:04:25,076 >> No problem 81 00:04:25,076 --> 00:04:26,976 >> Adrian Perez? 82 00:04:34,616 --> 00:04:37,296 And Megan Ingram? 83 00:04:37,686 --> 00:04:37,986 >> Present. 84 00:04:38,956 --> 00:04:39,726 >> Thank you, Megan. 85 00:04:39,726 --> 00:04:44,286 It looks like all members are here -- all voting members are here. 86 00:04:44,286 --> 00:04:45,226 So we do have a quorum. 87 00:04:45,226 --> 00:04:45,966 Thank you, everyone. 88 00:04:46,096 --> 00:04:49,866 We will go ahead and call the meeting to order. 89 00:04:49,866 --> 00:04:52,916 Next slide, please. 90 00:04:52,916 --> 00:04:55,186 Again, my name is James Bronikowski, and I'm the Manager 91 00:04:55,186 --> 00:04:58,676 of the Regional Flood Planning Department here at the Texas Water Development Board. 92 00:04:58,676 --> 00:05:01,936 And I would like to welcome you all here to the inaugural meeting 93 00:05:02,046 --> 00:05:05,396 of the Lower Rio Grande Regional Flood Planning Group. 94 00:05:06,906 --> 00:05:11,336 We do have a full agenda today, quite a few items to go over for the group to discuss. 95 00:05:11,466 --> 00:05:16,806 So without further ado, we have some very important guests here with us today. 96 00:05:16,806 --> 00:05:22,496 So I will pass it over to director Kathleen Jackson of the Texas Water Development Board. 97 00:05:23,356 --> 00:05:24,466 >> Well, thank you, James. 98 00:05:24,466 --> 00:05:26,566 It's great to be introduced by fellow engineer. 99 00:05:26,566 --> 00:05:31,306 And I just wanted to say thank you for your participation. 100 00:05:31,306 --> 00:05:34,796 Thank you for your energy, and your talent, and your engagement. 101 00:05:34,846 --> 00:05:41,176 And you are the real success behind what we're moving forward in doing today, the first ever, 102 00:05:41,176 --> 00:05:45,606 the inaugural meeting of the first ever Regional Flood Planning Groups in Texas, 103 00:05:45,606 --> 00:05:48,816 which I understand are not only unique to Texas, but you know, 104 00:05:48,816 --> 00:05:51,466 most likely unique across the nation. 105 00:05:51,466 --> 00:05:58,516 So the eyes of Texas are upon you, again, with great expectation I think in being able 106 00:05:58,516 --> 00:06:03,156 to address flood in a way that we've never ever approached it before. 107 00:06:03,156 --> 00:06:05,496 I mean, in the past, it was an area flooded. 108 00:06:05,496 --> 00:06:10,116 We went back in afterwards and kind of asked the question, what we can do to mitigate it? 109 00:06:10,336 --> 00:06:14,266 But I think we recognize now that for resiliency across our state 110 00:06:14,366 --> 00:06:16,086 that we need to be forward looking. 111 00:06:16,086 --> 00:06:21,726 We need to accommodate population growth, we need to ask questions about you know, 112 00:06:21,726 --> 00:06:26,576 innovative type of ways that we can mitigate flood, and things that we can put in place 113 00:06:26,576 --> 00:06:32,656 to warn people to get them out of harm's way in the event that there's flooding that occurs. 114 00:06:32,656 --> 00:06:34,896 And so, it's a big task at hand. 115 00:06:35,126 --> 00:06:38,296 There's a relatively short timeframe to do it, but so, 116 00:06:38,296 --> 00:06:41,366 so important I think for the future of our state. 117 00:06:41,366 --> 00:06:45,806 As the Water Development Board, we are not regulatory, we are a resource agency. 118 00:06:45,806 --> 00:06:52,616 And so, we stand ready to help you and any way that we can and moving forward with this effort. 119 00:06:52,616 --> 00:06:56,546 Again, as the engineer on the board, I'm really excited that, you know, 120 00:06:56,546 --> 00:07:01,636 not only do we have this opportunity to bring leadership together and to look 121 00:07:01,636 --> 00:07:08,206 at things collaboratively, recognizing that what happens upstream also impacts us downstream. 122 00:07:08,206 --> 00:07:13,836 But we're going to be developing the process modeling data. 123 00:07:14,276 --> 00:07:17,786 What we heard across Texas was that, you know, we needed better mapping. 124 00:07:17,786 --> 00:07:25,516 Those kind of tools that will be available to you in the flood planning effort as well 125 00:07:25,516 --> 00:07:31,646 as for communities and for community leadership to utilize in terms of evaluating what level 126 00:07:31,646 --> 00:07:33,976 of risk they want to mitigate to. 127 00:07:33,976 --> 00:07:38,026 So the types of modeling and data and information that's going to be able 128 00:07:38,026 --> 00:07:43,486 to be utilized not only for flood planning, but also in so many other ways. 129 00:07:43,486 --> 00:07:46,026 I'd like to think in Texas that we'll have, 130 00:07:46,246 --> 00:07:49,666 from an economic development standpoint, kind of that one two punch. 131 00:07:49,996 --> 00:07:54,776 Hopefully, our children and our children's children won't need to worry about drought, 132 00:07:54,856 --> 00:07:57,096 about whether we have an adequate water supply. 133 00:07:57,096 --> 00:08:00,446 They won't hopefully don't need to worry about water quality, 134 00:08:00,446 --> 00:08:03,296 because we'll have wastewater treatment in place. 135 00:08:03,296 --> 00:08:07,976 And, you know, they won't need to worry about flood because we will have thought about that 136 00:08:07,976 --> 00:08:10,976 and put systems in place and thought about that proactively. 137 00:08:11,606 --> 00:08:17,676 When I look across the members of the group and, you know, kind of what's ahead, 138 00:08:17,676 --> 00:08:21,496 I'm really pleased to see so many of our champions 139 00:08:21,496 --> 00:08:24,516 and leaders who participated over the years. 140 00:08:24,516 --> 00:08:32,936 I mean, your area is very proactive, you're very engaged, you've already been working on flood. 141 00:08:32,936 --> 00:08:37,006 And, of course, in many ways, your projects in terms of water supply 142 00:08:37,006 --> 00:08:41,816 and wastewater treatment are models that we share with communities across Texas. 143 00:08:41,816 --> 00:08:47,686 So I'm really, really pleased to be able to be here today to listen to your engagement, 144 00:08:47,686 --> 00:08:54,316 and just, again, just wanted to thank you for your commitment of time 145 00:08:54,316 --> 00:08:59,666 and for bringing together you know, all the talents and all the diversity of thought 146 00:08:59,666 --> 00:09:03,436 that we know is needed to put together the very best regional flood plan, 147 00:09:03,436 --> 00:09:06,156 which we in turn will take and wrap into the state flood plan. 148 00:09:06,156 --> 00:09:11,766 I did want to bring you greetings from our other two board members, Peter Lake who serves 149 00:09:11,766 --> 00:09:14,346 in the financial slot, and he is our chairman. 150 00:09:14,766 --> 00:09:20,696 And then, Brooke Paup, with all her energy, she serves in the business and the legal slot. 151 00:09:20,696 --> 00:09:23,926 And then, of course, I serve in the engineering position. 152 00:09:24,416 --> 00:09:25,826 We have an amazing staff. 153 00:09:25,826 --> 00:09:32,796 I'm so proud of the work that they've done to date in the world of flood. 154 00:09:32,796 --> 00:09:37,446 as well as the work that we're continuing to do every day for water supply 155 00:09:37,866 --> 00:09:41,726 and for protecting water quality and wastewater treatment. 156 00:09:41,726 --> 00:09:45,786 So, they're very passionate, they're very talented, they're very engaged. 157 00:09:45,786 --> 00:09:51,806 And we definitely would not be the agency that we are without the talented people 158 00:09:51,806 --> 00:09:54,926 that are here today and that have been working on this project. 159 00:09:54,926 --> 00:09:57,776 And will continue to support you as we move forward. 160 00:09:57,776 --> 00:10:02,406 So, James, thank you, and thanks to each and every one of you, and please feel free 161 00:10:02,406 --> 00:10:07,976 that as you have many times before, to reach out to me if there's anything that I can do. 162 00:10:08,286 --> 00:10:12,626 It's great to be able to see everyone virtually, but I really just can't wait 163 00:10:12,626 --> 00:10:15,916 until we can get together face to face and catch up and kind 164 00:10:15,916 --> 00:10:17,626 of learn what everybody's been doing. 165 00:10:17,626 --> 00:10:20,366 So, anyway, thank you so much, and I'm happy to be here. 166 00:10:22,716 --> 00:10:24,096 >> Thank you, Director Jackson. 167 00:10:24,206 --> 00:10:26,196 We're very appreciative that you're able to join us today. 168 00:10:26,196 --> 00:10:29,546 Next slide, please. 169 00:10:29,546 --> 00:10:36,156 As I mentioned, we have quite a full agenda today. 170 00:10:36,156 --> 00:10:39,876 And here, we've included a summary of these agenda items. 171 00:10:39,876 --> 00:10:45,156 I just want to let you know that the full publicly posted agenda does include subitems, 172 00:10:45,156 --> 00:10:47,596 but here we're just including the basic points. 173 00:10:47,876 --> 00:10:52,656 So today, we've done a call to order, director Jackson welcomed us. 174 00:10:52,656 --> 00:10:56,586 And next, we'll get to meeting facilitation information and instructions, 175 00:10:57,016 --> 00:10:58,826 followed by member introductions. 176 00:10:59,176 --> 00:11:01,836 There'll be a presentation from the Water Development Board 177 00:11:01,836 --> 00:11:04,276 on the Regional Flood Planning Process Overview. 178 00:11:04,666 --> 00:11:08,326 After that, we'll get into some discussion and potential action items 179 00:11:08,326 --> 00:11:10,336 by the group -- for the group to consider here. 180 00:11:10,886 --> 00:11:15,756 Those are a discussion of the group bylaws and consider adopting those bylaws, 181 00:11:16,016 --> 00:11:20,686 consider nominating and electing a Regional Flood Planning Group chair or interim chair, 182 00:11:21,436 --> 00:11:24,996 and consider selecting a planning group sponsor to act on behalf 183 00:11:24,996 --> 00:11:26,316 of the Regional Flood Planning Group. 184 00:11:26,996 --> 00:11:28,326 Next slide, please. 185 00:11:30,856 --> 00:11:34,536 After that, there are a few additional items for the group to consider. 186 00:11:34,536 --> 00:11:38,336 Those are additional region specific public notice requirements. 187 00:11:38,336 --> 00:11:40,856 And that might be necessary to ensure adequate public notice. 188 00:11:41,586 --> 00:11:45,846 To consider authorizing the Regional Flood Planning Group sponsor if selected to apply 189 00:11:45,906 --> 00:11:49,706 for grant funds and enter into a contract with the Water Development Board on behalf 190 00:11:49,706 --> 00:11:50,836 of the Regional Flood Planning Group. 191 00:11:51,136 --> 00:11:56,516 A discussion of necessary additional voting and nonvoting positions that may be needed 192 00:11:56,516 --> 00:11:59,476 to ensure adequate representation from the interests in the region. 193 00:12:00,316 --> 00:12:05,876 There's also a general public comments portion and a consideration and discussion of the date 194 00:12:05,876 --> 00:12:07,916 and agenda items for the next meeting. 195 00:12:09,506 --> 00:12:14,216 Next slide, please. 196 00:12:14,216 --> 00:12:17,516 Next slide, please. 197 00:12:17,516 --> 00:12:18,366 Sorry, back one. 198 00:12:18,366 --> 00:12:26,696 As I mentioned before, I will help facilitate this first meeting here until a chair is chosen. 199 00:12:27,126 --> 00:12:30,736 I'll follow to -- try to follow Robert's Rules of Order to the best 200 00:12:30,736 --> 00:12:32,386 of my ability while running this meeting. 201 00:12:33,416 --> 00:12:34,386 Next slide, please. 202 00:12:36,876 --> 00:12:39,216 Agenda Item 3 is member introductions. 203 00:12:42,346 --> 00:12:43,296 Next slide, please. 204 00:12:46,146 --> 00:12:49,736 So very briefly, we'll go through the initial voting members list here. 205 00:12:49,946 --> 00:12:54,966 I'll state -- I'll call your name and ask you to please state your name, your interest category 206 00:12:55,156 --> 00:13:01,216 that you're representing, your occupation, and just tell us briefly, you know, 207 00:13:01,216 --> 00:13:02,806 what brought you here and why you want to be -- 208 00:13:02,806 --> 00:13:06,036 or why you chose to be a part of the Regional Flood Planning Group process. 209 00:13:06,886 --> 00:13:09,646 And so with that, we'll start with Mr. Joe Hinojosa. 210 00:13:09,646 --> 00:13:11,036 >> Good afternoon. 211 00:13:11,036 --> 00:13:13,346 Joe Hinojosa, I'm the General Manager 212 00:13:13,346 --> 00:13:19,666 for the Santa Cruz Irrigation District in Edinburg, Texas. 213 00:13:19,666 --> 00:13:22,876 I reside in Brownsville, so I have interest 214 00:13:22,926 --> 00:13:26,896 in both obviously Cameron County and Hidalgo County. 215 00:13:26,896 --> 00:13:30,826 I've been in my position for the last six years. 216 00:13:30,826 --> 00:13:37,436 Now, in its own situation, even though I've worked with water, storm water and flood issues 217 00:13:38,016 --> 00:13:46,156 in my previous tenure with the City of Brownsville, the interests are unique. 218 00:13:46,156 --> 00:13:47,806 They have their own set of challenges. 219 00:13:47,806 --> 00:13:52,086 But obviously, it's incumbent upon us to be part 220 00:13:52,086 --> 00:13:56,166 of the regional strategy to deal with water issues. 221 00:13:56,166 --> 00:13:59,526 And so, I'm very appreciative of being on this panel. 222 00:13:59,526 --> 00:14:01,786 I look forward to the work ahead. 223 00:14:01,786 --> 00:14:02,976 Thank you very much. 224 00:14:05,136 --> 00:14:06,006 >> Thank you, sir. 225 00:14:06,776 --> 00:14:07,926 Commissioner David Garza. 226 00:14:14,316 --> 00:14:16,166 Sorry, sir, I believe you're muted. 227 00:14:16,316 --> 00:14:16,736 >> OK. 228 00:14:17,296 --> 00:14:17,966 >> Thank you. 229 00:14:17,966 --> 00:14:19,696 >> Unmuted, there we go. 230 00:14:20,076 --> 00:14:22,386 Hi. Hi, how are you all today? 231 00:14:22,596 --> 00:14:23,946 Commissioner David Garza. 232 00:14:23,946 --> 00:14:30,566 I've been with Cameron County for 20 years as a commissioner now, and have been very involved 233 00:14:30,566 --> 00:14:35,226 in a lot of water quality issues, a lot of storm related issues. 234 00:14:35,226 --> 00:14:40,636 Since we're on the coast, we seem to constantly have all kinds of interesting events occur. 235 00:14:40,706 --> 00:14:45,666 And it perked an interest in my life as a public servant. 236 00:14:45,816 --> 00:14:48,156 Privately, I am a pharmacist. 237 00:14:48,156 --> 00:14:52,906 I own an independent pharmacy, which has been in operation for 41 years now. 238 00:14:53,336 --> 00:14:58,356 But I don't have enough to do there, my wife says, so I joined groups 239 00:14:58,356 --> 00:15:00,646 like this to get engaged in our community. 240 00:15:00,646 --> 00:15:04,936 You know, we've been very blessed and fortunate to be supported by our community, 241 00:15:04,936 --> 00:15:07,976 and we feel that we need to do the same, 242 00:15:07,976 --> 00:15:11,706 and leave this place a little better than we found it when we go. 243 00:15:11,756 --> 00:15:17,396 But water issues are extremely important for Cameron County and our whole region. 244 00:15:17,826 --> 00:15:23,366 The resiliency that we need to develop, the planning, and the modeling that we would 245 00:15:23,366 --> 00:15:27,286 like to make sure and have, and especially the regionalization 246 00:15:27,286 --> 00:15:31,336 of those processes are extremely important to us. 247 00:15:31,736 --> 00:15:36,956 We are, along with our neighboring county, to the north, the outfalls into the Gulf of Mexico. 248 00:15:37,476 --> 00:15:42,726 And we want to make sure that what is good for us is good for everyone upstream, 249 00:15:42,986 --> 00:15:45,686 and the same for those folks upstream from us. 250 00:15:45,876 --> 00:15:48,766 So, it's a pleasure to be able to join you today. 251 00:15:49,046 --> 00:15:51,916 I'm excited about the future of this. 252 00:15:51,986 --> 00:15:56,366 I know that a person that was very involved, you know, 253 00:15:56,366 --> 00:16:02,096 in this particular process occurring appears to become 254 00:16:02,226 --> 00:16:04,826 or will be becoming hopefully the next speaker of the house. 255 00:16:04,826 --> 00:16:08,606 So we know we have support from our legislative folks. 256 00:16:08,856 --> 00:16:13,796 So, again, thank you so much for including me, and look forward to working with all the groups. 257 00:16:16,106 --> 00:16:18,596 >> Thank you. 258 00:16:18,776 --> 00:16:19,606 Daniel Lucio? 259 00:16:19,726 --> 00:16:22,446 >> Good afternoon, everyone. 260 00:16:22,446 --> 00:16:24,086 So I am Daniel Lucio. 261 00:16:24,086 --> 00:16:29,776 I am with the AEP Texas External Affairs Division. 262 00:16:29,776 --> 00:16:33,336 I serve as a liaison between my company and cities 263 00:16:33,336 --> 00:16:36,556 and the county in the areas in which I serve. 264 00:16:36,556 --> 00:16:40,786 My area starts from Alamo all the way to Brownsville, 265 00:16:40,786 --> 00:16:43,766 up to Raymondville, South Padre Island. 266 00:16:44,106 --> 00:16:47,206 So I've got a huge geographical area. 267 00:16:47,206 --> 00:16:50,016 So I am here to assist in any way I can. 268 00:16:50,016 --> 00:16:58,926 I mean, in my 26 years with AEP Texas, we've run into several issues along the Rio Grande, 269 00:16:58,926 --> 00:17:02,736 and during storm season, even more important with flooding. 270 00:17:03,346 --> 00:17:06,026 So again, thank you for this opportunity. 271 00:17:06,026 --> 00:17:08,256 And I'm here to assist in any way I can. 272 00:17:12,166 --> 00:17:12,726 >> Thank you. 273 00:17:14,166 --> 00:17:15,336 Hudson DeYoe? 274 00:17:15,336 --> 00:17:21,406 >> Hi. I'm representing the environmental interests for the group. 275 00:17:21,406 --> 00:17:25,836 I'm a professor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. 276 00:17:25,836 --> 00:17:28,096 I've been here for 20 plus years. 277 00:17:28,246 --> 00:17:30,936 I'm a biologist. 278 00:17:30,936 --> 00:17:32,846 I am not a hydrologist. 279 00:17:32,846 --> 00:17:37,196 But I pay a lot of attention to water, especially what happens at the coasts. 280 00:17:37,756 --> 00:17:40,416 If I'm an expert at anything, it's on seagrass. 281 00:17:40,956 --> 00:17:46,296 And whatever happens upstream affects what happen to seagrass in the day. 282 00:17:46,296 --> 00:17:50,866 And just to make a point, seagrass are worth millions of dollars. 283 00:17:51,316 --> 00:17:54,736 And if things -- bad things happen, flooding is something different, 284 00:17:54,736 --> 00:17:57,656 but I deal with water generally. 285 00:17:58,006 --> 00:18:04,186 But whatever happens to seagrass, that so goes the tourist area at the, 286 00:18:04,186 --> 00:18:06,366 you know, South Padre Island, et cetera. 287 00:18:07,176 --> 00:18:15,416 I'm very interested in the group, and I'm not quite sure what flood planning means. 288 00:18:15,746 --> 00:18:17,306 I've been thinking about it. 289 00:18:17,306 --> 00:18:21,446 And there are various pathways I guess to go. 290 00:18:22,166 --> 00:18:22,536 Thank you. 291 00:18:25,136 --> 00:18:27,206 >> Thank you. 292 00:18:27,206 --> 00:18:28,296 David Fuentes? 293 00:18:30,116 --> 00:18:32,016 >> Good afternoon, everybody. 294 00:18:32,126 --> 00:18:33,316 My name is David Fuentes. 295 00:18:33,316 --> 00:18:36,986 So I'm actually Hidalgo County Commissioner, Precinct 1. 296 00:18:36,986 --> 00:18:44,516 But we also serve a dual role as drainage district directors or board members in our area, 297 00:18:44,516 --> 00:18:49,536 which is about 90 to 95% of the area that we serve as county commissioners. 298 00:18:49,996 --> 00:18:54,066 We manage over 500 miles of linear drainage. 299 00:18:54,066 --> 00:18:55,616 That number is more or less. 300 00:18:55,616 --> 00:18:59,556 But we have a whole bunch of issues. 301 00:19:00,196 --> 00:19:04,726 In the last five years, we've had six FEMA declared disasters related 302 00:19:04,726 --> 00:19:06,266 to flooding in our area. 303 00:19:06,266 --> 00:19:09,096 So this is extremely personal to me. 304 00:19:09,096 --> 00:19:12,856 We have a lot of families that are displaced that have lost their homes, not once, 305 00:19:12,856 --> 00:19:16,366 not twice, even more than three times. 306 00:19:16,446 --> 00:19:21,786 In the last three years since the flood of 2018, we had over 34 inches of regional rainfall. 307 00:19:21,966 --> 00:19:24,166 And then in '19, we had almost the same. 308 00:19:24,166 --> 00:19:29,786 And then this year, we had hurricane that passed right through our area and devastated us again. 309 00:19:29,786 --> 00:19:32,856 So this is a very personal issue for me in my office. 310 00:19:32,856 --> 00:19:36,786 And even for the drainage district that I serve as a board member of. 311 00:19:37,386 --> 00:19:39,906 We've worked with obviously the Water Development Board. 312 00:19:39,906 --> 00:19:46,376 We've met with Ms. Jackson -- Director Jackson and the governor, the lieutenant governor, 313 00:19:46,376 --> 00:19:52,536 every -- the GLO, every possible entity you can think of trying to, alongside my counties -- 314 00:19:52,536 --> 00:19:57,546 adjacent counties of Cameron County and Willacy County, trying to come up with a regional plan 315 00:19:57,546 --> 00:20:02,976 for how we can get water out of our area so that we can save lives and homes. 316 00:20:03,056 --> 00:20:07,226 So it's been a pleasure to work alongside Commissioner Garza and Commissioner Gonzalez 317 00:20:07,226 --> 00:20:11,016 over in Willacy County, and working towards that regionalization, 318 00:20:11,016 --> 00:20:13,086 which we don't believe has ever happened before. 319 00:20:13,086 --> 00:20:16,926 So like Commissioner Garza said, we're all in this together. 320 00:20:16,926 --> 00:20:18,656 Everything that touches me touches him. 321 00:20:19,016 --> 00:20:25,656 So we're trying to come up with a plan that can help our people and improve the quality 322 00:20:25,656 --> 00:20:26,926 of life for the people that we serve. 323 00:20:26,926 --> 00:20:28,446 So, I look forward to it. 324 00:20:28,446 --> 00:20:30,846 Thank you for having me. 325 00:20:30,846 --> 00:20:31,236 Thank you. 326 00:20:33,036 --> 00:20:34,466 >> Thank you, Commissioner Fuentes. 327 00:20:35,996 --> 00:20:37,046 Joey Trevino? 328 00:20:37,046 --> 00:20:40,256 >> Good afternoon, everybody. 329 00:20:40,486 --> 00:20:45,436 Again, my name is Joey Trevino, a lifelong resident here 330 00:20:45,436 --> 00:20:48,896 in Harlingen, Texas in the Rio Grande Valley. 331 00:20:48,896 --> 00:20:52,286 My past experiences brought me to this. 332 00:20:52,286 --> 00:21:02,146 So I've worked over 27 years in either the planning, urban regional planning, engineering, 333 00:21:02,146 --> 00:21:05,256 infrastructure, and economic development. 334 00:21:05,256 --> 00:21:11,156 I was the past city commissioner here in the City of Harlingen. 335 00:21:11,156 --> 00:21:14,946 So, I have a lot of background dealing with infrastructure, 336 00:21:14,946 --> 00:21:17,546 and drainage, and flooding issues. 337 00:21:17,946 --> 00:21:22,586 So when this came up, you know, I was real happy that I was selected. 338 00:21:23,146 --> 00:21:36,636 And I think I can be a board member to help get Rio Grande Valley and our drainage issues. 339 00:21:36,636 --> 00:21:41,206 I really appreciate everybody's time and efforts on this. 340 00:21:41,506 --> 00:21:43,356 And I'm ready to go to work. 341 00:21:43,356 --> 00:21:43,696 Thank you. 342 00:21:46,966 --> 00:21:47,546 >> Thank you. 343 00:21:49,426 --> 00:21:51,306 Vanessa Rosales-Herrera? 344 00:21:55,316 --> 00:21:56,696 >> Yes, good afternoon. 345 00:21:56,696 --> 00:21:58,866 My name is Vanessa Rosales-Herrera. 346 00:21:58,866 --> 00:22:01,966 I live in the City of Eagle Pass. 347 00:22:01,966 --> 00:22:07,686 I work for the City of Eagle Pass, and I first started here as planning director. 348 00:22:07,716 --> 00:22:12,036 I have since transitioned over to city engineer. 349 00:22:12,036 --> 00:22:17,336 I am an engineer by trade, so it fits more along the lines of what I do. 350 00:22:17,886 --> 00:22:23,126 And as a city engineer, I also serve as a floodplain administrator for our city. 351 00:22:23,536 --> 00:22:27,966 So, I'm very excited that I was given the opportunity to serve on this, 352 00:22:27,966 --> 00:22:31,366 and I'm looking forward to the great things that we're going to do. 353 00:22:34,286 --> 00:22:36,276 >> Thank you. 354 00:22:36,436 --> 00:22:37,486 Joe Califa? 355 00:22:37,486 --> 00:22:41,166 >> Good afternoon, everyone. 356 00:22:41,166 --> 00:22:42,506 Born and raised in the Valley. 357 00:22:43,066 --> 00:22:44,426 I am retired. 358 00:22:44,626 --> 00:22:51,526 My professional career really was in two parts, one working for cities 359 00:22:51,666 --> 00:22:55,046 as an urban planner, and assistant city manager. 360 00:22:55,046 --> 00:22:57,766 I was a floodplain administrator as well. 361 00:22:58,366 --> 00:23:09,636 Second part of my career was as a -- working with professional engineering companies. 362 00:23:10,606 --> 00:23:14,006 I worked with subdivision development, and right away acquisition 363 00:23:14,186 --> 00:23:16,966 for transportation and for drainage projects. 364 00:23:17,236 --> 00:23:22,676 I also actually worked for the Water Development Board for a couple of years and worked 365 00:23:22,676 --> 00:23:27,916 in the Colonia Program or visited hundreds of Colonias in the valley. 366 00:23:28,726 --> 00:23:32,136 I'm familiar with, you know, processing the -- 367 00:23:32,306 --> 00:23:37,966 or getting the model subdivision rules implemented in the valley. 368 00:23:37,966 --> 00:23:41,266 As I said, I am retired, but since I've been retired, 369 00:23:41,266 --> 00:23:47,946 I've been working with the American Red Cross and have been working the disaster -- 370 00:23:47,946 --> 00:23:53,136 the flood disasters that we've had here recently. 371 00:23:53,356 --> 00:23:56,456 My role with the Red Cross was government of operations, 372 00:23:56,456 --> 00:24:03,676 which was working with the emergency management officials, and also did a damage assessment -- 373 00:24:03,676 --> 00:24:07,426 work on damage assessment teams during those disasters. 374 00:24:07,536 --> 00:24:16,416 But most importantly, I work with victims and through service centers that we had established 375 00:24:16,416 --> 00:24:22,196 and brought together victims and response agencies and just working with victims and going 376 00:24:22,196 --> 00:24:25,756 out to their properties, seeing what their issues were. 377 00:24:26,116 --> 00:24:34,706 I look forward to representing the public on the -- on this planning group. 378 00:24:35,006 --> 00:24:37,446 The next four years I think are going to be real busy. 379 00:24:37,446 --> 00:24:39,466 As I said, I'm retired, so I've got time for it. 380 00:24:39,516 --> 00:24:42,226 And I look forward to working with all of you. 381 00:24:42,386 --> 00:24:42,886 Thank you. 382 00:24:46,516 --> 00:24:47,016 >> Thank you. 383 00:24:48,746 --> 00:24:49,836 Jose Caso? 384 00:24:50,586 --> 00:24:51,776 >> Hey, everybody, good afternoon. 385 00:24:51,846 --> 00:24:53,236 I'm an attorney. 386 00:24:53,346 --> 00:24:57,696 I have my practice in Edinburg, lifelong resident of Mission, 387 00:24:57,896 --> 00:25:00,016 and before that in Reynosa in Mexico. 388 00:25:00,296 --> 00:25:03,656 You know, my role is to represent small businesses. 389 00:25:03,656 --> 00:25:09,536 I've seen small businesses that are never able to reopen their doors after some 390 00:25:09,536 --> 00:25:10,986 of the flood events that we've that. 391 00:25:10,986 --> 00:25:14,916 And I'm really proud to be serving alongside everybody here, you know, 392 00:25:14,916 --> 00:25:17,286 particularly Commissioners Fuentes and Garza. 393 00:25:17,376 --> 00:25:19,096 They've done so much for our communities. 394 00:25:19,286 --> 00:25:23,826 And we just look forward to representing the interests of small business and making sure 395 00:25:23,826 --> 00:25:27,576 that we protect them, that that's the lifeline of our communities. 396 00:25:27,666 --> 00:25:30,396 And thank you for everybody being here today. 397 00:25:33,496 --> 00:25:34,006 >> Thank you. 398 00:25:35,436 --> 00:25:36,576 Sonia Lambert? 399 00:25:37,326 --> 00:25:39,416 >> Good afternoon, everybody -- everyone. 400 00:25:39,936 --> 00:25:41,966 My name is Sonia Lambert from San Benito. 401 00:25:41,966 --> 00:25:45,676 I am General Manager for Cameron County Irrigation District number 2, 402 00:25:45,676 --> 00:25:48,876 and also Cameron County Drainage District number 3. 403 00:25:49,286 --> 00:25:53,576 I've managed both districts for over 21 years and have been employed 404 00:25:53,576 --> 00:25:56,736 by both districts for over 42 years. 405 00:25:56,736 --> 00:26:03,496 I have been and continue to be very involved in various local and state boards and water boards. 406 00:26:03,496 --> 00:26:09,896 We cover an area of San Benito, Los Indios, Rio Hondo, and Lozano area. 407 00:26:10,286 --> 00:26:15,296 I believe that, you know, we have been very impacted these been several years by flood, 408 00:26:15,296 --> 00:26:17,796 and I feel that I can be a very good resource. 409 00:26:17,796 --> 00:26:23,516 With my years, or my tenure here, I can be very good resource for what has happened here locally 410 00:26:24,016 --> 00:26:28,466 for both irrigation and drainage from that -- from both aspects. 411 00:26:28,466 --> 00:26:33,556 So I am happy to join this group and willing to do my part to help improve our area. 412 00:26:34,356 --> 00:26:34,786 Thank you. 413 00:26:37,026 --> 00:26:39,386 >> Thank you. 414 00:26:39,616 --> 00:26:40,926 Riazul Mia? 415 00:26:42,746 --> 00:26:43,636 >> Good afternoon. 416 00:26:44,876 --> 00:26:46,376 I am Riazul Mia. 417 00:26:46,376 --> 00:26:48,476 My profession, I'm a civil engineer. 418 00:26:48,786 --> 00:26:50,996 I work with City of Laredo. 419 00:26:51,066 --> 00:26:58,086 Previously, I was the utility director, and before that I was the stormwater director. 420 00:26:58,576 --> 00:27:04,236 And now recently, I'm serving as assistant city manager overseeing all the development services. 421 00:27:05,026 --> 00:27:08,376 It's good to see so many folks I work with. 422 00:27:08,376 --> 00:27:13,436 Joe is -- we actually work for a group to create Rio Grande Stormwater Group. 423 00:27:13,476 --> 00:27:15,086 And, Joe, good to see you. 424 00:27:15,086 --> 00:27:19,596 And also, I served with Sonia and the Region M Master Plan. 425 00:27:19,926 --> 00:27:23,706 Commissioner Fuentes, Commissioner Garza, good to see. 426 00:27:24,306 --> 00:27:27,066 I do -- My specialty is in stormwater. 427 00:27:27,536 --> 00:27:32,686 Really, I created Laredo's Stormwater Program. 428 00:27:32,686 --> 00:27:38,546 So I do have I think some good experience in dealing with some of the major flooding issues. 429 00:27:39,196 --> 00:27:44,506 And I'm glad that I'm chosen to be serving this committee. 430 00:27:44,506 --> 00:27:48,616 I think I can bring some valuable asset to the group. 431 00:27:49,136 --> 00:27:50,116 And thank you again. 432 00:27:52,956 --> 00:27:53,466 >> Thank you. 433 00:27:53,466 --> 00:27:57,226 That is all of our voting members. 434 00:27:57,226 --> 00:28:04,436 Also have introductions for the seven nonvoting members that represent various state agencies. 435 00:28:05,856 --> 00:28:07,816 I start with Shonda Mace. 436 00:28:08,946 --> 00:28:09,746 >> Hi, everybody. 437 00:28:09,746 --> 00:28:10,866 My name is Shonda Mace. 438 00:28:10,866 --> 00:28:14,606 I'm here representing the Texas General Land Office. 439 00:28:15,146 --> 00:28:17,286 I am on the planning team. 440 00:28:17,746 --> 00:28:21,246 And we are, as many of you know and some of you might not know, 441 00:28:21,916 --> 00:28:25,986 we are doing regional flood studies in hurricane Harvey impacted areas. 442 00:28:25,986 --> 00:28:28,206 I'm also on Region 10. 443 00:28:28,206 --> 00:28:35,286 But also, we are about to kick off here within the next -- hopefully right after the New Year, 444 00:28:35,696 --> 00:28:41,886 a regional flood study for the valley that will be utilizing mitigation funding. 445 00:28:42,186 --> 00:28:45,466 And so, I know I've talked to some of you before about that, 446 00:28:45,686 --> 00:28:47,756 but I look forward to working with everybody. 447 00:28:48,046 --> 00:28:57,436 And I'm just really excited about actually finally getting some flood help for the valley. 448 00:28:57,436 --> 00:28:58,826 It's definitely much needed. 449 00:29:01,786 --> 00:29:03,546 >> Thank you. 450 00:29:03,546 --> 00:29:04,356 David Ramirez? 451 00:29:05,446 --> 00:29:06,416 >> Good afternoon, everyone. 452 00:29:06,976 --> 00:29:09,816 David Ramirez with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. 453 00:29:10,056 --> 00:29:12,226 I am the Border and Permian Basin area. 454 00:29:12,816 --> 00:29:16,566 So I cover from Brownsville from the mouth of the Rio Grande up to El Paso, 455 00:29:16,566 --> 00:29:19,196 and then all the midland up to Big Spring's area. 456 00:29:19,396 --> 00:29:23,776 As Commissioner, or I'm sorry, as Director Jackson had said, 457 00:29:23,836 --> 00:29:25,926 what happens upstream effects downstream. 458 00:29:26,016 --> 00:29:30,456 I've been part of too many of these incidents where we have flooding events 459 00:29:30,656 --> 00:29:34,116 that occurred north of the -- up in the Rio Grande reaches and, 460 00:29:34,476 --> 00:29:36,156 you know, has that trickle effect. 461 00:29:36,156 --> 00:29:38,876 So I have some of that experience. 462 00:29:38,876 --> 00:29:44,226 And I also just want to make sure that I'm a resource to this group to various parts 463 00:29:44,226 --> 00:29:47,896 of the agency that we have technical assistance. 464 00:29:47,896 --> 00:29:54,976 So thank you for allowing me to be part of this work group. 465 00:29:55,326 --> 00:29:57,166 >> Thank you. 466 00:29:57,386 --> 00:29:58,346 Nelda Barrera? 467 00:30:00,066 --> 00:30:01,266 >> Good afternoon. 468 00:30:01,266 --> 00:30:04,556 I'm a field representative with the Texas Department of Agriculture. 469 00:30:04,556 --> 00:30:06,076 I'm located in MaGallon. 470 00:30:06,626 --> 00:30:13,286 I cover 18 counties in South Texas, Brownsville to Corpus, across the Cthulhu and Eagle Pass 471 00:30:13,286 --> 00:30:15,906 as field representatives under marketing. 472 00:30:15,906 --> 00:30:19,286 And we promote marketing and economic development, 473 00:30:19,286 --> 00:30:23,116 and we administer the community development block grant programs. 474 00:30:23,706 --> 00:30:31,876 So, we work with a lot of rural areas within my region as they address various issues dealing 475 00:30:31,876 --> 00:30:36,196 with water planning, drainage, as well as flooding. 476 00:30:36,666 --> 00:30:38,156 Happy to be on the committee. 477 00:30:38,156 --> 00:30:45,476 And as we participate, we'll report committee information back to our headquarters in Austin. 478 00:30:46,186 --> 00:30:46,736 Thank you. 479 00:30:49,966 --> 00:30:51,416 >> Thank you. 480 00:30:51,786 --> 00:30:52,726 Tim Freer? 481 00:30:54,296 --> 00:30:54,946 >> Good afternoon. 482 00:30:54,946 --> 00:30:56,336 My name's Tim Freer. 483 00:30:56,336 --> 00:30:59,296 I'm with the Texas Division of Emergency Management. 484 00:30:59,776 --> 00:31:02,666 I'm a local hazard mitigation planner. 485 00:31:03,146 --> 00:31:10,646 So I basically I help the local jurisdictions get their hazard mitigations plan submitted 486 00:31:10,646 --> 00:31:10,896 to FEMA. 487 00:31:10,896 --> 00:31:12,996 I looked through them, make sure that they're good. 488 00:31:12,996 --> 00:31:16,126 I also am involved with the High Hazard Potential Dam Program. 489 00:31:19,116 --> 00:31:20,016 >> Thank you. 490 00:31:21,576 --> 00:31:23,016 Willy Cupit? 491 00:31:28,966 --> 00:31:32,496 >> Yes. I'm Willy Cupit with the Texas Parks and Wildlife. 492 00:31:32,756 --> 00:31:34,966 I'm a coastal ecologist. 493 00:31:35,526 --> 00:31:37,366 I'm here in Brownsville. 494 00:31:38,056 --> 00:31:42,016 I've been working on here for 11 years. 495 00:31:42,016 --> 00:31:48,526 I'm really excited to be a part of this process and do some good work. 496 00:31:48,906 --> 00:31:55,266 The Valley could definitely benefit from what we're trying to do here. 497 00:31:58,906 --> 00:32:00,076 >> Thank you. 498 00:32:01,126 --> 00:32:02,596 Adrian Perez? 499 00:32:07,276 --> 00:32:08,786 I'm not sure if they're here. 500 00:32:09,346 --> 00:32:10,276 Megan Ingram? 501 00:32:10,276 --> 00:32:12,106 >> Hello, everyone. 502 00:32:12,106 --> 00:32:12,756 My name is Megan. 503 00:32:12,756 --> 00:32:15,796 I'm going to be your Water Development Board Project Manager. 504 00:32:15,796 --> 00:32:17,646 So I'll be your liaison with the agency. 505 00:32:17,646 --> 00:32:21,286 You've seen many emails for me, but it's nice to meet you all today. 506 00:32:21,286 --> 00:32:25,156 And looking forward to working with you all in what I know is going to be a meaningful effort. 507 00:32:25,156 --> 00:32:26,966 And especially after hearing from each of you, 508 00:32:27,156 --> 00:32:29,226 also looking forward to learning from you all too. 509 00:32:29,226 --> 00:32:30,406 So, thank you. 510 00:32:30,496 --> 00:32:33,136 Feel free to -- It's open communication from here on out, 511 00:32:33,136 --> 00:32:35,146 and just looking forward to working with you all. 512 00:32:35,146 --> 00:32:35,576 Thank you. 513 00:32:39,446 --> 00:32:39,996 >> Thank you, Megan. 514 00:32:39,996 --> 00:32:40,556 >> Thank you. 515 00:32:41,376 --> 00:32:45,346 >> Also, I want to introduce a few other members of the Water Development Board Staff, 516 00:32:45,346 --> 00:32:47,826 other several of us helping out behind the scenes. 517 00:32:47,826 --> 00:32:50,796 But here on camera, we also have Matt Nelson. 518 00:32:50,796 --> 00:32:53,206 Matt, you want to introduce yourself? 519 00:32:53,206 --> 00:32:59,316 >> Yeah. I'm Matt Nelson, Assistant Deputy Executive Administrator. 520 00:32:59,626 --> 00:33:04,386 My background is really Director of Water Planning and Water Planning Activities. 521 00:33:04,386 --> 00:33:07,506 But now, I support flood plan program. 522 00:33:07,706 --> 00:33:10,196 So, I've been enjoying that. 523 00:33:10,196 --> 00:33:13,496 And it's great to see the first meetings happening this last two weeks 524 00:33:13,696 --> 00:33:15,006 after quite a long process. 525 00:33:15,006 --> 00:33:16,796 So, great to be here. 526 00:33:16,796 --> 00:33:23,996 And it's always impressive to see who's involved in this group. 527 00:33:23,996 --> 00:33:24,786 So thank you. 528 00:33:25,216 --> 00:33:25,636 >> Thank you, Matt. 529 00:33:25,636 --> 00:33:27,756 >> We also have Reem Zuon. 530 00:33:28,126 --> 00:33:33,386 Reem, you want to introduce yourself and say a few words. 531 00:33:33,886 --> 00:33:35,026 >> Hello, everyone. 532 00:33:35,026 --> 00:33:36,516 My name is Reem Zuon. 533 00:33:36,516 --> 00:33:39,876 I'm the Director of Flood Planning here at the Texas Water Development Board. 534 00:33:39,876 --> 00:33:42,956 So you're the last of our meeting marathon. 535 00:33:42,956 --> 00:33:45,316 We had 15 Regional Flood Planning Group 536 00:33:45,316 --> 00:33:49,246 and have been holding this meeting every day, morning and afternoon. 537 00:33:49,766 --> 00:33:54,606 So excited to have you here to have some faces to the names. 538 00:33:54,606 --> 00:33:59,576 You may have heard that we have received over 600 nominations for these positions. 539 00:34:00,216 --> 00:34:04,946 So the energy around it and the listening to all of you all today, 540 00:34:04,946 --> 00:34:08,406 the qualification of the people who are here today, you are the right folks. 541 00:34:08,406 --> 00:34:10,536 There is a lot to do in the coming years. 542 00:34:11,206 --> 00:34:15,156 Excited to have you here, and looking forward to supporting you. 543 00:34:15,156 --> 00:34:18,896 The entire Flood Planning Division is here to support you. 544 00:34:18,896 --> 00:34:22,806 I'll be here in the background today and just be listening in. 545 00:34:23,136 --> 00:34:24,686 Thank you again for serving. 546 00:34:27,336 --> 00:34:27,986 >> Thank you, Reem. 547 00:34:27,986 --> 00:34:32,566 That's for all of our -- for member introductions. 548 00:34:32,696 --> 00:34:33,876 Next slide, please. 549 00:34:37,576 --> 00:34:41,906 The next item on the agenda, number 4, is regional flood planning overview presentation 550 00:34:41,906 --> 00:34:43,036 with the Water Development Board. 551 00:34:43,376 --> 00:34:45,926 Next slide, please. 552 00:34:48,306 --> 00:34:52,746 And as many of you may be aware, Senate Bill 8 directed the Water Development Board 553 00:34:52,746 --> 00:35:00,756 to divide the State of Texas into multiple flood planning regions based on river basin. 554 00:35:01,366 --> 00:35:04,586 And through that, the state was divided 555 00:35:04,586 --> 00:35:08,466 up into 15 Regional Flood Planning Groups as seen on this map here. 556 00:35:08,466 --> 00:35:15,346 This group will cover the Lower Rio Grande Flood Planning Region. 557 00:35:16,306 --> 00:35:17,296 Next slide, please. 558 00:35:19,846 --> 00:35:23,086 And I know we have a lot of expert knowledge and experts here. 559 00:35:23,086 --> 00:35:28,956 I'm getting a little bit of a feedback from someone. 560 00:35:29,046 --> 00:35:30,796 Thank you. 561 00:35:30,796 --> 00:35:36,976 And so, many of you are aware of the situation and some of the statistics for all region, 562 00:35:36,976 --> 00:35:39,156 but I wanted to give some basic information for the public 563 00:35:39,156 --> 00:35:41,656 and anyone else that may be attending. 564 00:35:41,976 --> 00:35:47,356 This region will cover five counties fully and nine partial counties throughout the valley, 565 00:35:47,356 --> 00:35:49,916 and extending up towards -- passed Laredo. 566 00:35:49,976 --> 00:35:54,446 The estimated 2020 population is a little over 2 million. 567 00:35:54,446 --> 00:35:58,616 And this, again, covers a land area of over 12,000 square miles. 568 00:35:59,156 --> 00:36:04,026 Including within this region are over 5,300 miles of stream miles. 569 00:36:04,026 --> 00:36:10,906 And in terms of National Flood Insurance Program claims since 1975, this region has totaled 570 00:36:10,906 --> 00:36:14,186 over $173 million in damage claims. 571 00:36:14,996 --> 00:36:21,316 We also want to note the region includes approximately 157 miles of Texas shorelines. 572 00:36:26,996 --> 00:36:31,496 As I mentioned earlier, the Water Development Board will help facilitate these first meetings, 573 00:36:31,636 --> 00:36:34,586 which will consist a virtual GoToWebinar meetings. 574 00:36:34,766 --> 00:36:40,316 We have a modest mostly organizational agenda today, several items to go over. 575 00:36:41,766 --> 00:36:44,586 There is a three-hour meeting window scheduled. 576 00:36:44,586 --> 00:36:47,686 We hope to be able to address and consider all these items today. 577 00:36:47,686 --> 00:36:52,146 We can go a little over that time, but we'd like to be respectful of everyone's time 578 00:36:52,146 --> 00:36:53,786 and try to hit that three-hour mark. 579 00:36:54,666 --> 00:37:00,756 Also, as I mentioned earlier, I will try my best to facilitate this meeting using Robert's Rules 580 00:37:00,756 --> 00:37:03,106 of Order until the chair is selected. 581 00:37:06,096 --> 00:37:10,466 And as I mentioned earlier, there's going to be three key items on this agenda for the group 582 00:37:10,466 --> 00:37:12,826 to consider and potentially take action on. 583 00:37:13,476 --> 00:37:17,156 Those include the adoption of Regional Flood Planning Group bylaws, 584 00:37:17,156 --> 00:37:21,936 which requires a two-thirds vote of all members present, the election of a chair 585 00:37:21,936 --> 00:37:27,636 or interim chair for the group and the designation of a political, sorry, 586 00:37:27,636 --> 00:37:29,366 a planning group sponsor political subdivision. 587 00:37:29,366 --> 00:37:31,366 Next slide. 588 00:37:31,366 --> 00:37:41,786 I want to go over some of the general responsibilities for officers as described 589 00:37:41,786 --> 00:37:44,306 and defined in the model bylaws that we'll be discussing. 590 00:37:45,196 --> 00:37:50,886 The model bylaws define three officer positions chair, vice chair, and secretary 591 00:37:50,886 --> 00:37:54,646 and there were also provisions for an executive committee. 592 00:37:54,716 --> 00:37:59,556 The chair will -- shall preside over -- shall be the executive officer or the model 593 00:37:59,556 --> 00:38:03,216 of the regional planning group and will preside over all regional flow planning group meetings. 594 00:38:03,706 --> 00:38:07,826 The vice chair will be responsible for assisting the chair in the discharge of these duties, 595 00:38:08,166 --> 00:38:11,106 and will carry out such duties when the chair is unable to. 596 00:38:11,106 --> 00:38:15,416 The secretary shall maintain the minutes and take attendance in all meetings. 597 00:38:15,536 --> 00:38:20,186 As I mentioned, there are also provisions for an Executive Committee, which will be composed 598 00:38:20,186 --> 00:38:25,726 of five group members, including the chair, vice chair, secretary, and two members at large. 599 00:38:29,716 --> 00:38:30,666 Next slide, please. 600 00:38:34,406 --> 00:38:37,266 As mentioned, there'll be consideration discussion 601 00:38:37,266 --> 00:38:39,776 about potentially selecting a planning group sponsor 602 00:38:39,776 --> 00:38:42,046 to support the Regional Flood Planning Group. 603 00:38:42,046 --> 00:38:44,966 And here, we have some of their responsibilities listed out. 604 00:38:45,286 --> 00:38:49,366 Those include applying for grant funding to the Texas Water Development Board on behalf 605 00:38:49,366 --> 00:38:50,536 of the Regional Flood Planning Group. 606 00:38:50,716 --> 00:38:54,666 That will also include entering into and managing contracts 607 00:38:54,666 --> 00:38:56,886 to facilitate these grant agreements. 608 00:38:56,946 --> 00:39:01,156 The planning group sponsor will also be responsible for procuring 609 00:39:01,156 --> 00:39:05,866 and managing any technical consultants that the group feels that they need to carry 610 00:39:05,866 --> 00:39:08,346 out the development of the regional flood plan. 611 00:39:09,666 --> 00:39:13,246 The planning responsible will also serve as the group's administrative agent 612 00:39:13,346 --> 00:39:19,026 by organizing meetings, public notices, agendas, presentations and meeting minutes. 613 00:39:19,026 --> 00:39:20,776 And the group will also be -- I'm sorry. 614 00:39:20,776 --> 00:39:22,166 The planning group sponsor will also be responsible 615 00:39:22,166 --> 00:39:27,666 for delivering the first regional flood plan by no later than January 10th of 2023. 616 00:39:31,926 --> 00:39:33,686 Thank you. 617 00:39:33,686 --> 00:39:39,166 And here, we just want to give a general overview of the hierarchy of how things such as, 618 00:39:39,166 --> 00:39:42,996 you know, statutes, rules, and the contract requirements 619 00:39:42,996 --> 00:39:47,776 and the grant agreement all fit together for anyone that's not familiar with this hierarchy. 620 00:39:48,586 --> 00:39:50,806 And starting out is statute. 621 00:39:50,806 --> 00:39:57,286 Senate Bill 8 passed in the previous legislative session set the overall framework and structure 622 00:39:57,286 --> 00:39:59,976 for regional and state flood planning. 623 00:40:01,066 --> 00:40:05,476 Through that, the board went through a rulemaking process 624 00:40:05,476 --> 00:40:14,566 where we received a tremendous amount of public feedback that went into the consideration 625 00:40:14,566 --> 00:40:19,356 and production of these -- development of these rules, which ultimately led to the adoption 626 00:40:19,356 --> 00:40:25,446 of the rules by our board chapters, sorry, 31Texas Administrative Code Chapters 361 627 00:40:25,446 --> 00:40:29,126 and 362 relating to state and regional flood planning. 628 00:40:33,446 --> 00:40:35,986 Further down underneath this overarching umbrella here, 629 00:40:35,986 --> 00:40:39,116 we have the grant contracts and scope of works. 630 00:40:39,116 --> 00:40:45,606 Those are currently in development and will be -- are scheduled to be presented to our board 631 00:40:45,766 --> 00:40:48,656 at a November 19th board meeting. 632 00:40:49,616 --> 00:40:54,196 Also in development is guidance documents, which will help further define how the group 633 00:40:54,196 --> 00:40:59,196 and the technical consultants will accomplish the scope of work to meet the rule requirements 634 00:40:59,196 --> 00:41:03,436 and still maintain the overall structure as required in statute. 635 00:41:04,856 --> 00:41:05,816 Next slide, please. 636 00:41:09,116 --> 00:41:14,046 In terms of components to be included in the regional flood plan, there are numerous tasks 637 00:41:14,046 --> 00:41:17,496 that will be listed in the scope of work, but we wanted to point out a few 638 00:41:17,496 --> 00:41:20,406 of the major components to be included in the regional flood plan. 639 00:41:20,596 --> 00:41:26,966 And the first of those is a task of identifying specific flood risk within the region. 640 00:41:29,386 --> 00:41:34,526 This will include identifying areas of known flood risk, areas with existing FEMA maps. 641 00:41:34,526 --> 00:41:38,826 This could be based on historical flooding. 642 00:41:38,896 --> 00:41:46,376 But basically, the goal here or, sorry, the task here is to basically identify those areas 643 00:41:46,376 --> 00:41:54,126 that do -- are known to have specific flood risk, but also areas that -- 644 00:41:54,626 --> 00:41:59,666 identify areas that are currently mapped areas that may lack mapping, 645 00:42:00,276 --> 00:42:06,216 also areas that have may currently have modeling, or that may need modeling. 646 00:42:06,606 --> 00:42:09,526 But overall, this is -- I'm sorry. 647 00:42:09,526 --> 00:42:12,886 I'm having some feedback from someone. 648 00:42:12,886 --> 00:42:19,426 Would you please mute your microphone? 649 00:42:19,476 --> 00:42:19,936 Thank you. 650 00:42:20,256 --> 00:42:27,916 And so, overall, the identification of specific flood risk will be the first item 651 00:42:27,916 --> 00:42:30,226 to include on this regional flood plan. 652 00:42:30,366 --> 00:42:35,896 The next item we want to discuss is the existing condition of flood risk analysis. 653 00:42:36,056 --> 00:42:38,436 And that consists of three main components. 654 00:42:38,736 --> 00:42:44,456 The first being a flood hazard analysis, where -- which will be used to determine the location, 655 00:42:44,456 --> 00:42:51,096 magnitude, and frequency of flooding, followed up with a flood exposure analysis, 656 00:42:51,206 --> 00:42:54,046 which will identify who and what might be harmed within the region. 657 00:42:55,656 --> 00:43:00,466 And the next step would be a vulnerability analysis. 658 00:43:00,466 --> 00:43:06,036 Here, this concludes the analysis of the regions and communities; susceptibility to flood, 659 00:43:06,426 --> 00:43:12,766 also identification of any critical facilities that may be vulnerable to flood risk, 660 00:43:12,766 --> 00:43:14,456 and a determination and analysis 661 00:43:14,456 --> 00:43:18,206 of the communities' resilience, to respond to flood events. 662 00:43:18,456 --> 00:43:24,016 And all of these three components, the flood hazard analysis, the flood exposure analysis, 663 00:43:24,016 --> 00:43:28,016 and the vulnerability analysis, combined together to give a total picture 664 00:43:28,016 --> 00:43:30,676 of a community or the region's flood risk. 665 00:43:30,886 --> 00:43:36,876 After the existing condition flood risk analysis, 666 00:43:36,876 --> 00:43:41,216 another important consideration is the future condition flood risk analysis. 667 00:43:41,216 --> 00:43:49,076 One of the overall goals here is to not only reduce the risk of flooding to persons 668 00:43:49,076 --> 00:43:56,576 and property within the region, but also look at a future condition analysis to determine how 669 00:43:56,576 --> 00:44:01,296 to avoid those issues and people in property facing flood risk in the future. 670 00:44:04,076 --> 00:44:04,866 Next slide, please. 671 00:44:14,206 --> 00:44:19,186 After the identify, sorry, the existing and future condition flood risk analysis, 672 00:44:19,186 --> 00:44:24,346 the main task of the group will be to set flood risk management goals. 673 00:44:25,046 --> 00:44:32,636 And these are the overarching goals and accomplishments that the group would 674 00:44:32,636 --> 00:44:35,896 like to set, essentially long-term management goals. 675 00:44:35,896 --> 00:44:42,866 The next three items here are the identification and recommendation 676 00:44:42,866 --> 00:44:46,226 of flood risk management evaluation, 677 00:44:46,386 --> 00:44:50,286 flood management strategies, and flood mitigation projects. 678 00:44:50,906 --> 00:44:52,596 Flood mitigation -- I'm sorry. 679 00:44:52,596 --> 00:44:58,896 Flood management evaluations are to identify areas that need further study and evaluation. 680 00:44:58,946 --> 00:45:03,486 This can be areas of the region that either historically have not been mapped, 681 00:45:03,486 --> 00:45:10,956 either have what are -- what the group determines to be older, outdated maps, 682 00:45:10,956 --> 00:45:14,796 or areas that need further modeling or updated modeling. 683 00:45:14,856 --> 00:45:20,266 But overall, this is areas that require further study or evaluation in order 684 00:45:20,266 --> 00:45:23,326 to determine any sort of flood management solution. 685 00:45:25,026 --> 00:45:30,926 Flood management strategies are, again, more long-term strategies to deal 686 00:45:30,926 --> 00:45:33,216 with flood risk and address those. 687 00:45:33,216 --> 00:45:36,696 These could include recommended regulatory changes 688 00:45:37,026 --> 00:45:42,436 or long-term initiatives to help manage flood risk. 689 00:45:42,606 --> 00:45:48,156 They do not have to have a specific capital cost or any specific project but are more 690 00:45:48,156 --> 00:45:51,616 or less overall strategies for the region to work towards. 691 00:45:53,466 --> 00:45:58,886 The third item here is the identification and recommendations of flood mitigation projects. 692 00:45:58,886 --> 00:46:02,196 And these will probably make up the bulk of the -- of these three. 693 00:46:02,196 --> 00:46:08,766 And these include any sort of actual projects constructed 694 00:46:08,766 --> 00:46:12,606 or constructed projects to mitigate flood risk. 695 00:46:12,666 --> 00:46:15,136 They can be structural or nonstructural. 696 00:46:15,136 --> 00:46:17,016 It could be nature based as well. 697 00:46:17,066 --> 00:46:24,056 But one of the important considerations is that they'd be considered feasible by the group. 698 00:46:24,056 --> 00:46:27,616 And what that means is they are considered permittable, constructible, 699 00:46:27,896 --> 00:46:33,946 and also implementable in terms of is there community buy-in, is the -- 700 00:46:33,946 --> 00:46:39,216 is there a willingness to, you know, to complete the project and see it through not only as, 701 00:46:39,216 --> 00:46:42,366 you know, a permit and constructed considerations 702 00:46:42,366 --> 00:46:44,816 for permitting and constructability. 703 00:46:44,816 --> 00:46:53,306 And again, as I mentioned, the goal of all of these floodplain components is twofold, 704 00:46:53,306 --> 00:46:58,756 to focus on reducing the existing flood risk to life and property, as well as flood management 705 00:46:58,756 --> 00:47:04,546 in general to avoid increasing the flood risk in the future by keeping populations out of the way 706 00:47:04,546 --> 00:47:09,466 of flood flows, and helping to prevent some of these future issues from occurring. 707 00:47:11,676 --> 00:47:12,606 Next slide please. 708 00:47:12,606 --> 00:47:19,986 Here, we wanted to discuss some of the Water Development Board's financial -- 709 00:47:20,306 --> 00:47:22,556 technical and financial support roles. 710 00:47:23,076 --> 00:47:27,576 One of the things that we will be helping the Regional Flood Planning Group 711 00:47:27,576 --> 00:47:32,716 out with include assistance with convening and facilitating this first meeting. 712 00:47:33,576 --> 00:47:38,346 We will also serve as a nonvoting member at meetings as a resource. 713 00:47:38,346 --> 00:47:42,696 Megan Ingram of our staff will serve as this group's nonvoting member. 714 00:47:44,296 --> 00:47:46,956 The board will also provide funding appropriation 715 00:47:46,956 --> 00:47:49,916 through a regional flood planning grant contract. 716 00:47:50,266 --> 00:47:53,556 We will provide guidance documents for developing the regional flood plans. 717 00:47:53,906 --> 00:47:57,556 We will help assist by organizing regular conference calls 718 00:47:57,556 --> 00:48:01,866 with the Regional Flood Planning Group chairs, and also provides support 719 00:48:01,866 --> 00:48:04,696 to the planning group sponsor political subdivisions. 720 00:48:05,346 --> 00:48:09,966 Water Development Board will also help provide training and other general support as it relates 721 00:48:09,966 --> 00:48:13,256 to regional flood planning in the development of the regional flood plans. 722 00:48:14,866 --> 00:48:18,166 Next slide, please. 723 00:48:18,166 --> 00:48:23,266 General responsibilities of the Regional Flood Planning Group itself include following the 724 00:48:23,266 --> 00:48:27,006 flood planning statute and rules, as well as the Texas Open Meetings Act. 725 00:48:28,516 --> 00:48:31,976 The adoption -- To adopt and follow bylaws 726 00:48:31,976 --> 00:48:34,396 that govern how each group shall conduct its business. 727 00:48:34,976 --> 00:48:38,976 The group must or shall designate additional representatives if necessary 728 00:48:38,976 --> 00:48:41,826 to ensure adequate representation from the interest in the region. 729 00:48:42,546 --> 00:48:45,346 The group will designate a political subdivision to act 730 00:48:45,346 --> 00:48:47,306 as a planning group sponsor on your behalf. 731 00:48:48,456 --> 00:48:50,916 The group also holds public meetings in accordance 732 00:48:50,916 --> 00:48:53,776 with public notice requirements and in a transparent manner. 733 00:48:54,116 --> 00:48:59,186 The group will also select and direct the work of a technical consultant, 734 00:48:59,186 --> 00:49:02,106 as well as maintain a website for making notices, materials, 735 00:49:02,516 --> 00:49:04,826 and other related information available to the public. 736 00:49:12,286 --> 00:49:15,066 Additional flood planning basics we want to bring to you all's attention. 737 00:49:15,066 --> 00:49:20,396 One thing I want to point out is that these -- the Regional Flood Planning Groups, yourselves, 738 00:49:20,396 --> 00:49:23,236 you all will be responsible for making decisions for this group. 739 00:49:23,486 --> 00:49:26,716 The Water Development Board is here to provide assistance and guidance, 740 00:49:26,716 --> 00:49:29,526 but we will play a neutral support role 741 00:49:29,926 --> 00:49:33,956 and leave the decision-making up to the group, yourselves. 742 00:49:34,776 --> 00:49:38,786 I want to emphasis that this is a collaborative process across the basin. 743 00:49:39,436 --> 00:49:45,416 For example, if you're representing cities or counties, for example, 744 00:49:45,416 --> 00:49:49,746 you're not only representing your city or county, you're representing the city's -- 745 00:49:49,746 --> 00:49:53,656 city and county governments or those entities for the entire region. 746 00:49:53,906 --> 00:49:57,976 So you represent -- I just want to emphasize that your role is all inclusive 747 00:49:57,976 --> 00:50:01,376 for the entire region and not specific to your area. 748 00:50:04,586 --> 00:50:09,666 Also, I want to mention that this is intended to be a transparent and public process 749 00:50:09,666 --> 00:50:11,596 to develop the regional floods plans. 750 00:50:11,636 --> 00:50:16,196 And then eventually, this -- And one's developed, they will roll into -- 751 00:50:16,196 --> 00:50:20,856 all 15 regional flood plans will roll up into a comprehensive statewide regional flood plan 752 00:50:20,856 --> 00:50:22,836 that the Water Development Board will put together. 753 00:50:22,836 --> 00:50:28,516 Also I want to mention that this is intended to be a five-year planning cycle. 754 00:50:28,586 --> 00:50:33,716 I realize that due to dates that set forth in Senate Bill 8, 755 00:50:34,036 --> 00:50:37,786 this first planning cycle will be somewhat shorter. 756 00:50:38,066 --> 00:50:40,686 The first due dates for the regional flood plans, 757 00:50:40,686 --> 00:50:44,926 as I mentioned earlier, is on January 10th, 2023. 758 00:50:45,346 --> 00:50:47,776 So that gives, for this first cycle at least, 759 00:50:47,776 --> 00:50:50,606 a little over two years to put this first plan together. 760 00:50:50,606 --> 00:50:54,386 So there's a lot of work to do and not as much time 761 00:50:54,386 --> 00:50:58,006 as will be afforded and future planning cycles. 762 00:50:59,736 --> 00:51:00,466 Next slide. 763 00:51:03,766 --> 00:51:06,296 And I've mentioned a few days so far here. 764 00:51:06,296 --> 00:51:09,206 So we wanted to give you just an overall timeline here to show some 765 00:51:09,206 --> 00:51:12,966 of these larger -- important dates. 766 00:51:12,966 --> 00:51:16,316 On the left here, we're starting out with these first meetings. 767 00:51:16,316 --> 00:51:21,566 Some other important events along the way are the contract execution 768 00:51:21,566 --> 00:51:23,376 with Regional Flood Planning Group sponsors. 769 00:51:23,856 --> 00:51:25,926 The solicitation of technical consultants. 770 00:51:25,926 --> 00:51:28,506 Both will occur or anticipated to occur early next year. 771 00:51:28,506 --> 00:51:34,246 In 2022, we'll be looking for the submission of technical memorandums from each of the groups, 772 00:51:34,566 --> 00:51:36,866 as well as draft flood plans later in the year. 773 00:51:37,646 --> 00:51:42,776 And these last two dates with red dots are statutorily set dates. 774 00:51:42,776 --> 00:51:50,246 And those are the January 10th, 2023 date that I mentioned, and the September 1st 2024 due dates 775 00:51:50,246 --> 00:51:53,376 for the first state flood plan which shall be due to legislature. 776 00:51:56,336 --> 00:51:57,666 Next slide, please. 777 00:51:59,256 --> 00:52:04,066 That concludes our presentation on regional flood planning basics. 778 00:52:04,066 --> 00:52:08,486 And with that, we can move on to the -- for the regular business for the group to consider here. 779 00:52:08,906 --> 00:52:12,356 The first up, Meeting Agenda Item number 5, discussion of group bylaws 780 00:52:12,356 --> 00:52:14,936 and consideration of adopting those bylaws. 781 00:52:17,676 --> 00:52:22,956 As I've mentioned, the Water Development Board staff has put together a set of model bylaws 782 00:52:22,956 --> 00:52:25,646 that we've sent to the group beforehand. 783 00:52:25,736 --> 00:52:29,456 We can also plan to discuss those today. 784 00:52:29,456 --> 00:52:36,096 After that, we will entertain a possibility of consideration of adopting those bylaws. 785 00:52:36,466 --> 00:52:38,556 Next slide, please. 786 00:52:41,146 --> 00:52:47,396 And here, we have a listing of the bylaw requirements as listed in rule in Chapter 361. 787 00:52:47,746 --> 00:52:49,646 I won't go through all these specifically. 788 00:52:49,646 --> 00:52:53,396 But note that there are several items listed in rule that are required. 789 00:52:53,916 --> 00:52:56,956 We've also included these requirements and language 790 00:52:56,956 --> 00:52:59,306 to meet these requirements in the model bylaws. 791 00:52:59,556 --> 00:53:04,366 And we've also highlighted those sections in gray in the model bylaws for your reference. 792 00:53:04,796 --> 00:53:06,636 Next slide, please. 793 00:53:10,676 --> 00:53:16,316 Here we have a table of the voting requirements as currently listed in the model bylaws. 794 00:53:16,856 --> 00:53:19,706 A few items that I want to note is 795 00:53:19,706 --> 00:53:25,206 that the model bylaws do require a two-thirds vote of all voting members present. 796 00:53:25,916 --> 00:53:30,876 And there is one other item that requires a significant voting threshold, 797 00:53:30,876 --> 00:53:36,896 and that is to add a voting position that increases the total number of voting positions 798 00:53:36,896 --> 00:53:40,786 to the group that does require -- I want to note that that does require a two-thirds vote 799 00:53:40,786 --> 00:53:45,216 of all existing voting positions, not just those present. 800 00:53:45,216 --> 00:53:50,326 As you can see on the right here, the majority of items do only require a majority vote. 801 00:53:50,326 --> 00:53:53,476 >> Sorry to interrupt. 802 00:53:53,606 --> 00:53:53,716 >> Yes. 803 00:53:54,166 --> 00:53:56,096 >> Is [inaudible] about -- This is Jose Caso. 804 00:53:56,096 --> 00:53:59,676 I don't know if I need to raise my hands or. 805 00:53:59,946 --> 00:54:00,786 >> Oh, no, you're fine. 806 00:54:01,906 --> 00:54:04,926 >> What is vote requirement for amending the bylaws? 807 00:54:06,566 --> 00:54:08,116 >> That is a good question. 808 00:54:08,436 --> 00:54:13,246 We did note, I guess other groups have noted that as well, and I can get to that when we get 809 00:54:13,246 --> 00:54:18,176 to the -- In a second here, we'll pull up the model bylaws and we can go through it. 810 00:54:18,176 --> 00:54:23,986 But, yes, you are correct that currently, there is not an exact provision for that 811 00:54:23,986 --> 00:54:27,376 for amending the bylaws in the current model bylaws. 812 00:54:28,846 --> 00:54:29,346 >> Thanks. 813 00:54:33,186 --> 00:54:36,706 >> And with that, can we go ahead and pull up the model bylaws? 814 00:54:40,386 --> 00:54:41,726 >> Yes, James, working on that now. 815 00:54:43,196 --> 00:54:43,916 >> Thank you, Morgan. 816 00:55:20,486 --> 00:55:21,966 >> Can you see? 817 00:55:25,356 --> 00:55:28,976 >> No. I cannot see anything yet. 818 00:55:41,356 --> 00:55:45,776 >> At the very last meeting, we have our -- one of our only technical difficulties. 819 00:55:45,776 --> 00:55:47,036 Give me just a second. 820 00:55:51,696 --> 00:55:54,736 I'm trying to figure out what's going on. 821 00:55:56,546 --> 00:55:57,206 >> Thanks, Morgan. 822 00:55:57,326 --> 00:55:58,426 >> All right. 823 00:55:58,426 --> 00:55:58,976 Thanks, Morgan. 824 00:55:58,976 --> 00:56:02,986 And while Morgan is working to pull those up, are there any other overall questions 825 00:56:02,986 --> 00:56:07,636 about the bylaws before we can get into viewing the model bylaws? 826 00:56:09,436 --> 00:56:13,306 >> Was there any resolution on the amending of the bylaws part 827 00:56:13,436 --> 00:56:16,676 with any of the other groups yet, James? 828 00:56:16,836 --> 00:56:17,556 >> Yes, sir. 829 00:56:17,556 --> 00:56:22,986 Many of the groups went ahead and included -- Oh, here we go. 830 00:56:22,986 --> 00:56:26,986 And if you all want, we can go ahead and go straight to that section 831 00:56:27,126 --> 00:56:29,706 since we had two questions about it. 832 00:56:30,076 --> 00:56:33,976 Is that the Article 15 near at the bottom? 833 00:56:50,546 --> 00:56:51,016 Thank you. 834 00:56:51,016 --> 00:56:57,046 And here is, if you all have noticed, there -- 835 00:56:57,226 --> 00:57:02,966 the title of the article here is Adopting and Amending the Bylaws. 836 00:57:03,506 --> 00:57:08,076 But as you noticed, and others have noticed, there's -- in the body of the article here, 837 00:57:08,216 --> 00:57:10,146 there is no mention of the word amend. 838 00:57:10,336 --> 00:57:16,546 So I believe all the groups so far have inserted, as Morgan's put here, 839 00:57:16,546 --> 00:57:23,066 and/or amend after adopt, also require a two-thirds vote for any amending of the bylaws. 840 00:57:25,206 --> 00:57:27,586 Is there any objection to this change? 841 00:57:33,146 --> 00:57:33,616 >> Nope. 842 00:57:33,616 --> 00:57:34,216 >> All right. 843 00:57:35,576 --> 00:57:36,576 Thank you Commissioner Garza. 844 00:57:36,576 --> 00:57:37,356 >> James, excuse me. 845 00:57:37,356 --> 00:57:43,626 Is those two-thirds of the existing positions or two-thirds of the members present? 846 00:57:44,496 --> 00:57:46,866 >> It is two-thirds of the members present. 847 00:57:56,426 --> 00:57:59,696 Any other questions on this article or this issue? 848 00:58:00,096 --> 00:58:01,306 >> There is a motion? 849 00:58:01,686 --> 00:58:03,886 It's been seconded or not? 850 00:58:04,036 --> 00:58:08,386 >> No. What we were planning on doing was just having a discussion on these bylaws. 851 00:58:08,386 --> 00:58:12,746 And as we go across different points or different sections, I'll -- 852 00:58:12,856 --> 00:58:16,456 we'll have discussions on those and essentially wait for a -- 853 00:58:16,456 --> 00:58:19,846 once we reach consensus on all the items as we move through them, 854 00:58:19,846 --> 00:58:22,536 we'll have one vote at the end to adopt the bylaws. 855 00:58:22,676 --> 00:58:31,426 Is there any objection to following that plan? 856 00:58:31,426 --> 00:58:31,606 >> No. 857 00:58:31,606 --> 00:58:32,476 >> All right. 858 00:58:32,906 --> 00:58:34,976 Morgan, if you wouldn't mind going to the very top. 859 00:58:41,396 --> 00:58:44,136 >> To the Table of Contents or the first highlighted section? 860 00:58:44,136 --> 00:58:48,896 >> You can go to the first line of the section is fine. 861 00:58:48,896 --> 00:58:49,446 >> Thank you. 862 00:58:49,446 --> 00:58:55,616 >> I just I want to mention, there are several sections highlighted in gray 863 00:58:55,616 --> 00:58:59,076 that reference requirements from either statute or rule. 864 00:58:59,106 --> 00:59:03,356 And we've also highlighted some sections in yellow or language -- 865 00:59:03,356 --> 00:59:07,896 selected language in yellow that we'd like the group to consider. 866 00:59:09,016 --> 00:59:11,376 The first of these here is the term model. 867 00:59:11,376 --> 00:59:13,116 You'll see the term model appear throughout. 868 00:59:13,116 --> 00:59:18,136 And that's essentially just a placeholder for the region's name since this -- 869 00:59:18,366 --> 00:59:22,496 since all 15 regions were represented with these things, set of model bylaws. 870 00:59:22,976 --> 00:59:25,816 So our suggestion here is just to replace the term model 871 00:59:25,816 --> 00:59:30,286 with Region 15 Lower Rio Grande throughout the document. 872 00:59:30,646 --> 00:59:34,886 Is there any objection to that change? 873 00:59:39,366 --> 00:59:40,376 All right. 874 00:59:40,376 --> 00:59:46,356 And if anyone has a section or article of the bylaws that they'd like to discuss as we move 875 00:59:46,356 --> 00:59:51,596 through the document, please feel free to make that point and we'll discuss it. 876 00:59:53,676 --> 00:59:56,976 Morgan, if you can scroll down to the next yellow highlighted sections. 877 01:00:03,626 --> 01:00:08,056 The next section highlighted here in Article 5, Voting Membership, deals with the -- 878 01:00:08,086 --> 01:00:15,776 essentially places a cap on the number of voting members that can be included in the group. 879 01:00:15,776 --> 01:00:20,336 Currently, it says the voting membership of the group shall not exceed 18 members. 880 01:00:20,716 --> 01:00:25,446 This does not mean that the group has to add seats to get up to 18. 881 01:00:25,446 --> 01:00:28,216 It's -- That is up for the group to decide. 882 01:00:28,316 --> 01:00:31,786 This portion of the bylaws just sets a cap on that number. 883 01:00:40,836 --> 01:00:45,146 Anyone see an issue with this provisional bylaws or any discussion? 884 01:00:45,146 --> 01:00:48,436 >> I have a question about this. 885 01:00:48,596 --> 01:00:49,116 >> Yes, sir. 886 01:00:49,476 --> 01:00:55,306 >> So when we were originally nominated, or we applied for this planning group, 887 01:00:55,736 --> 01:00:59,196 we fell under a specific category. 888 01:00:59,926 --> 01:01:05,676 If we add members, do we have to follow a similar category, or do we make up our own? 889 01:01:05,676 --> 01:01:10,726 What exactly is the guidance with respect to potentially adding different members? 890 01:01:11,456 --> 01:01:18,106 >> Sure. The group may add voting member positions for any -- for additional -- 891 01:01:18,106 --> 01:01:22,976 any additional -- I'm sorry -- the group may add additional voting positions for any -- 892 01:01:23,256 --> 01:01:25,516 to represent any existing interest category. 893 01:01:25,516 --> 01:01:30,276 So, for example, agricultural interests, if the group decided 894 01:01:30,896 --> 01:01:34,216 that it felt it needed additional representation from the interest category, 895 01:01:34,546 --> 01:01:38,886 you all could potentially add another position to represent agricultural interest. 896 01:01:39,306 --> 01:01:44,886 The group could also choose to add new voting position or nonvoting positions 897 01:01:44,886 --> 01:01:48,556 for any additional interest category that's not listed that you all feel would -- 898 01:01:48,556 --> 01:01:49,966 is necessary for you all's region. 899 01:01:50,516 --> 01:01:56,856 For example, you could add an academic or transportation representative. 900 01:01:56,856 --> 01:02:01,956 There's several -- We've heard several ideas from different members or different groups. 901 01:02:02,326 --> 01:02:06,926 But that's ultimately up to the group to decide. 902 01:02:06,926 --> 01:02:07,986 >> And if that -- 903 01:02:07,986 --> 01:02:10,766 >> So we can't -- we just can't exceed 18. 904 01:02:11,706 --> 01:02:15,456 So we're 12 now and we could add up to six more positions? 905 01:02:16,576 --> 01:02:20,086 >> Yes. As currently -- As the bylaws are currently written, yes. 906 01:02:21,076 --> 01:02:23,576 >> And those positions are going to exist in perpetuity, 907 01:02:23,656 --> 01:02:27,986 or when that person's term ends, that position will lapse? 908 01:02:29,626 --> 01:02:33,186 >> My understanding of the current bylaws is once a position -- 909 01:02:33,186 --> 01:02:38,176 voting position or nonvoting position is added, it would have to be removed by the group. 910 01:02:38,176 --> 01:02:43,296 There's no expiration on such terms or positions, or no expirations on the positions. 911 01:02:43,296 --> 01:02:47,706 The expiration apply to the person or the member filling that position. 912 01:02:47,706 --> 01:02:49,576 >> Thank you. 913 01:03:04,766 --> 01:03:05,496 So is there any -- 914 01:03:05,676 --> 01:03:07,526 >> James, this is Joe Califa. 915 01:03:07,616 --> 01:03:12,066 I said 12, but I'm counting it up. 916 01:03:12,066 --> 01:03:14,556 There are 11 members today. 917 01:03:14,916 --> 01:03:16,216 Is that correct? 918 01:03:16,936 --> 01:03:17,936 >> Yes, sir. 919 01:03:17,936 --> 01:03:19,916 There -- Let me double check. 920 01:03:20,846 --> 01:03:24,456 Yes, sir. There are currently 11 members, voting members. 921 01:03:24,456 --> 01:03:30,106 >> OK. So we would be able to add as long as we don't exceed 18? 922 01:03:30,296 --> 01:03:30,696 >> Yes, sir. 923 01:03:30,696 --> 01:03:32,106 >> Thank you. 924 01:03:39,146 --> 01:03:40,066 >> So -- Go ahead. 925 01:03:40,066 --> 01:03:45,916 >> Is it determined by the group, they vote? 926 01:03:45,916 --> 01:03:48,436 And so, with 11, there will no ties. 927 01:03:48,586 --> 01:03:56,516 With 12 there can be ties. 928 01:03:57,486 --> 01:04:04,696 >> So James, I'm not sure what the answer is on Hudson's question, but my follow-up question 929 01:04:04,696 --> 01:04:13,406 to my previous one was, if we do decide to add more members, are we doing that today? 930 01:04:14,766 --> 01:04:16,856 >> No, that will not happen today. 931 01:04:16,856 --> 01:04:22,446 There is -- Later -- Further in the agenda, there is a discussion item on that point 932 01:04:22,446 --> 01:04:28,646 on the -- to consider adding any additional members. 933 01:04:28,996 --> 01:04:32,806 But the actual addition of members, no, that cannot happen today. 934 01:04:33,066 --> 01:04:39,516 The bylaws as currently, I'm sorry, not the bylaws, the rules require a 14-day notice 935 01:04:39,516 --> 01:04:42,356 for adding any additional voting or nonvoting positions. 936 01:04:42,906 --> 01:04:46,446 And so that was not included on the notice for today's meeting. 937 01:04:46,446 --> 01:04:48,526 So that will have to happen at a future meeting. 938 01:04:49,096 --> 01:04:53,716 >> We were selected by the Water Development Board representatives or entity. 939 01:04:54,206 --> 01:04:56,546 Would it go back to them or would that be something 940 01:04:56,546 --> 01:04:58,336 that we designate within our own group? 941 01:04:59,206 --> 01:05:04,466 >> The group here would designate who would fill those slots, those positions. 942 01:05:04,836 --> 01:05:10,256 There is a process further in the bylaws here as far -- It's a nomination -- 943 01:05:10,256 --> 01:05:14,846 describes the nomination process that's required to fill those positions. 944 01:05:15,206 --> 01:05:18,536 But, yes, the decision-making would be the groups here. 945 01:05:18,776 --> 01:05:20,726 >> OK, thank you. 946 01:05:21,236 --> 01:05:21,536 >> Sure. 947 01:05:28,966 --> 01:05:32,516 I'm sorry, were there any other questions on this or any suggested changes, 948 01:05:32,516 --> 01:05:34,976 or is everyone fine with this language? 949 01:05:44,296 --> 01:05:44,976 All right. 950 01:05:45,996 --> 01:05:50,236 Let's move on to the next highlight here in Section 2, Terms of Office. 951 01:05:50,236 --> 01:05:54,216 This first sentence here says the terms 952 01:05:54,216 --> 01:05:59,056 of all initial voting members shall expire on July 10th, 2023. 953 01:05:59,546 --> 01:06:06,666 And that date was chosen to be six months after the date of January 10th, 2023, 954 01:06:06,976 --> 01:06:09,546 in which the regional flood plans are to due. 955 01:06:09,746 --> 01:06:16,666 The thinking there was to just give -- not have the group have to worry about electing, 956 01:06:17,406 --> 01:06:20,936 you know, new members or going through that process at the same time when they're trying 957 01:06:20,936 --> 01:06:24,146 to -- when you all are trying to wrap up a submission to the regional flood plans. 958 01:06:24,486 --> 01:06:29,066 So we want to ensure that you'll have a little bit of extra time 959 01:06:29,066 --> 01:06:32,566 to address all those items before moving on to addressing new members. 960 01:06:35,616 --> 01:06:37,076 >> James, this is Joe Califa. 961 01:06:38,636 --> 01:06:46,566 Remind us what the timetable is to present the plan to the legislature because, you know, 962 01:06:46,566 --> 01:06:51,606 we may be lobbying after the January 10th date. 963 01:06:52,106 --> 01:06:52,696 >> Sure. 964 01:06:52,696 --> 01:06:58,346 >> The question is, are we going to be lobbying as members if it's beyond the July 10th? 965 01:07:00,196 --> 01:07:01,936 >> I'm not sure if I can answer that. 966 01:07:01,936 --> 01:07:09,256 But I can say that the group is required to submit the regional flood plan 967 01:07:09,256 --> 01:07:14,716 that they all develop to the Water Development Board on January 10th of 2023. 968 01:07:15,176 --> 01:07:19,746 The Water Development Board will go through the process of compiling all 969 01:07:19,746 --> 01:07:23,676 of the 15 Regional Flood Plans into a comprehensive state flood plan, 970 01:07:24,206 --> 01:07:30,436 which we will present to the legislature the following year, in September 2024. 971 01:07:35,306 --> 01:07:41,026 >> OK. So the next paragraph, so I guess we do want to continue -- 972 01:07:41,026 --> 01:07:45,946 we'll continue either additional two years or an additional five years based on -- 973 01:07:45,946 --> 01:07:46,336 >> Yeah. 974 01:07:46,876 --> 01:07:47,766 >> -- the draw. 975 01:07:47,896 --> 01:07:50,036 So we'll still be the members. 976 01:07:51,056 --> 01:07:53,896 So I'm not sure what the July 10th meeting is, 977 01:07:53,986 --> 01:07:58,496 or July 10th date actually indicates other than -- Go ahead. 978 01:07:58,556 --> 01:08:06,506 >> I was just going to say that that is essentially the end 979 01:08:06,506 --> 01:08:09,086 of this first -- of the first term for members. 980 01:08:09,086 --> 01:08:10,836 At that point, yes, you're correct. 981 01:08:10,836 --> 01:08:16,366 The members will draw lots as described here for five or two year terms. 982 01:08:16,666 --> 01:08:25,266 The goal with that is to set a staggering of terms so that all the voting members will not -- 983 01:08:25,266 --> 01:08:28,136 all of your terms will not come up to expire at the same time. 984 01:08:28,466 --> 01:08:33,006 This is an attempt to set some staggering on those terms so that there's continuity 985 01:08:33,096 --> 01:08:38,516 with the group between terms or across terms here -- across flood plan cycles, sorry. 986 01:08:41,046 --> 01:08:45,316 And from that point on, all terms will be five years after that initial staggering. 987 01:08:45,316 --> 01:08:50,006 So it's just a one time thing to offset some of the member terms. 988 01:08:50,466 --> 01:08:53,626 >> And there is no sense of provision, right? 989 01:08:53,626 --> 01:08:57,396 It just continues until the legislature changes the statute? 990 01:08:57,786 --> 01:09:00,726 >> I believe so. 991 01:09:00,726 --> 01:09:02,976 I'm not aware of any plan change. 992 01:09:07,046 --> 01:09:12,896 And, yes, as the next point -- highlight here shows, there are currently -- 993 01:09:12,896 --> 01:09:14,896 as listed here, there are no term limits. 994 01:09:14,936 --> 01:09:17,726 There are no limits the number of terms a member may serve. 995 01:09:18,366 --> 01:09:23,646 The member will still have to go through essentially an affirmation process by the group 996 01:09:23,646 --> 01:09:25,356 where they still have to be voted -- 997 01:09:25,356 --> 01:09:30,776 receive a majority vote from the group to maintain or to serve that following term. 998 01:09:31,316 --> 01:09:34,596 But there, as written here, there's no limit to those number of terms, 999 01:09:38,166 --> 01:09:39,976 unless the group would choose to change that. 1000 01:09:59,606 --> 01:10:04,816 Is there any suggestion for a change to term limits or anything in Section 2 here related 1001 01:10:04,816 --> 01:10:08,706 to terms of office, or any further questions or discussions? 1002 01:10:14,506 --> 01:10:15,066 All right. 1003 01:10:15,066 --> 01:10:16,976 So now, we can move on to the next yellow highlighted section. 1004 01:10:30,706 --> 01:10:31,576 All right. 1005 01:10:31,576 --> 01:10:37,196 Here in Article 8, Officers, Section 2 deals with selection of officers. 1006 01:10:37,196 --> 01:10:44,366 This here is a sentence that after going through 14 other meetings, we've realized this -- 1007 01:10:44,366 --> 01:10:47,536 we probably could have given you a little more extra time and went 1008 01:10:47,536 --> 01:10:49,106 through these model bylaws together. 1009 01:10:49,566 --> 01:10:53,636 Currently, it says within 30 days after adoption of these bylaws, 1010 01:10:54,016 --> 01:10:57,386 the voting members shall select initial officers. 1011 01:10:58,046 --> 01:11:02,866 Essentially what that thing is, if you all do, as I mentioned, if you all do -- 1012 01:11:02,936 --> 01:11:07,606 we have the potential nomination and election of a chair today, 1013 01:11:07,606 --> 01:11:11,166 but the other officer positions are not included on today's agenda. 1014 01:11:11,676 --> 01:11:17,656 And so, if the bylaws are indeed adopted today, the group -- as this is currently written, 1015 01:11:17,656 --> 01:11:23,986 the group would have to select those additional remaining officers within 30 days. 1016 01:11:23,986 --> 01:11:26,346 And that would mean that you all would have to have -- 1017 01:11:26,466 --> 01:11:29,126 you all next meeting also within those 30 days. 1018 01:11:29,626 --> 01:11:37,866 Some groups have modified it to give themselves more time, or just listed it as, you know, 1019 01:11:38,976 --> 01:11:44,166 by the next meeting voting member shall select initial officers. 1020 01:11:44,676 --> 01:11:50,776 >> Mr. James, if we're ready to nominate the other members, can we amend the bylaws 1021 01:11:50,776 --> 01:11:54,406 to indicate that, or would we have to notice that in an agenda? 1022 01:11:54,856 --> 01:11:58,456 >> I believe that would have to be noticed in the agenda. 1023 01:11:58,456 --> 01:12:03,216 The notice requirements for selecting a belief, and staff can correct me if I'm wrong here, 1024 01:12:03,216 --> 01:12:07,596 I believe that's a notice requirements of 14 days for selection of officers. 1025 01:12:07,596 --> 01:12:09,596 I'm not 100% certain on that. 1026 01:12:10,056 --> 01:12:13,836 Let me -- Give us one sec to check -- double check that. 1027 01:12:18,846 --> 01:12:20,446 Sorry, it's seven days notice. 1028 01:12:20,446 --> 01:12:23,896 But it was not included on these meeting's agenda. 1029 01:12:34,176 --> 01:12:36,306 >> This is Joe Califa. 1030 01:12:36,306 --> 01:12:39,776 It makes sense to do it the first meeting in the new calendar year. 1031 01:12:40,156 --> 01:12:45,766 So is there a language to change this now? 1032 01:12:47,066 --> 01:12:49,446 >> Sure, we can change the language however the group -- 1033 01:12:49,546 --> 01:12:53,366 we can change this language however the group would like to be more flexible 1034 01:12:53,366 --> 01:12:55,176 for you all, whenever it works for the group. 1035 01:12:56,156 --> 01:12:59,706 Is there any specific suggested language that anyone has? 1036 01:13:03,066 --> 01:13:06,066 >> How about doing it to where we could select the members 1037 01:13:06,066 --> 01:13:09,796 at the next scheduled meeting with a proper posting? 1038 01:13:10,866 --> 01:13:11,176 >> OK. 1039 01:13:22,086 --> 01:13:29,016 So, we have no later than at the next scheduled meeting after the adoption of these bylaws, 1040 01:13:29,016 --> 01:13:31,796 the voting members shall select initial officers. 1041 01:13:32,956 --> 01:13:34,286 How does that look to everyone? 1042 01:13:34,286 --> 01:13:36,506 Any objection to this language revision? 1043 01:13:48,446 --> 01:13:56,526 On a related section here, and kind of getting back to your point, sir, in Subsection b here, 1044 01:13:56,526 --> 01:14:03,786 Regular Officers, it currently states, regular officers shall be selected at the first meeting 1045 01:14:03,786 --> 01:14:08,166 of each calendar year after the calendar year in which these bylaws were adopted. 1046 01:14:08,866 --> 01:14:13,976 And we realized since these bylaws are being adopted in November, so late in the year, 1047 01:14:13,976 --> 01:14:21,306 as written, this would require officers to be reselected in -- at the next -- 1048 01:14:21,306 --> 01:14:26,056 at the meeting in -- at the first meeting that you al have in the next calendar year. 1049 01:14:26,666 --> 01:14:29,616 So that in effect would only mean current officers 1050 01:14:29,616 --> 01:14:32,766 which you all do select will only be serving for a couple of months. 1051 01:14:33,236 --> 01:14:39,366 Some suggested language here, other groups have included beginning in January of 2022, 1052 01:14:39,756 --> 01:14:44,726 just to offset that so that the officers that you all do select today 1053 01:14:44,726 --> 01:14:49,226 and within the next meeting are able to serve through 2021. 1054 01:14:53,996 --> 01:14:56,886 Is there any objection to this change? 1055 01:15:05,966 --> 01:15:06,606 All right. 1056 01:15:07,226 --> 01:15:10,016 We're going to go to the next yellow highlight, please. 1057 01:15:10,086 --> 01:15:13,416 >> I believe that's the last yellow highlight. 1058 01:15:13,416 --> 01:15:19,546 However, I guess we already did the endorsement change. 1059 01:15:19,546 --> 01:15:19,676 >> Yes. 1060 01:15:19,676 --> 01:15:22,366 >> So, that's the last highlight. 1061 01:15:23,956 --> 01:15:24,556 >> Thank you. 1062 01:15:26,636 --> 01:15:29,946 Does anyone else have any articles or sections of the bylaws they'd 1063 01:15:29,946 --> 01:15:33,696 like to discuss or propose any changes to? 1064 01:15:33,956 --> 01:15:35,396 >> A point of clarification. 1065 01:15:35,396 --> 01:15:38,346 I know that on the bylaws, it addresses the executive committee, 1066 01:15:38,346 --> 01:15:42,596 which is made up of the three, the chair, vice chair, and secretary. 1067 01:15:43,136 --> 01:15:45,846 So since we're not selecting those until the next meeting, 1068 01:15:46,316 --> 01:15:49,746 at what point do we determine the executive committee? 1069 01:15:50,626 --> 01:15:55,256 >> The executive committee, if you all so choose, can be selected and determined 1070 01:15:55,256 --> 01:15:58,156 at the next meeting when you all select those remaining officers. 1071 01:15:58,156 --> 01:16:01,776 That can all be done together if the group decides. 1072 01:16:02,416 --> 01:16:02,586 >> OK. 1073 01:16:02,586 --> 01:16:07,116 >> I would just recommend that that's -- 1074 01:16:07,626 --> 01:16:10,796 the notice for the next meeting include all of those positions. 1075 01:16:13,036 --> 01:16:16,916 >> James, could you walk us through the process of adding new members? 1076 01:16:17,256 --> 01:16:23,546 Would we have an agenda item essentially allowing for the creation of the position, 1077 01:16:23,686 --> 01:16:27,946 and then selecting the person at the same meeting? 1078 01:16:27,946 --> 01:16:30,276 Or do we need to stagger that into several meetings? 1079 01:16:31,406 --> 01:16:34,876 >> Yes. As the bylaws are currently written, you're correct. 1080 01:16:34,876 --> 01:16:37,606 It would have to be staggered at a separate meeting. 1081 01:16:37,606 --> 01:16:42,786 You would have one -- You would first have one action item to determine whether 1082 01:16:42,786 --> 01:16:45,626 or not you all wanted to increase or add that additional position. 1083 01:16:45,626 --> 01:16:51,556 At that point, as Morgan's got on the screen here, there is a process for filling vacancies. 1084 01:16:51,966 --> 01:16:55,526 And so, from that point, once the group decides and votes to take action 1085 01:16:55,526 --> 01:17:01,956 to add an additional voting member, the planning group sponsor that you all will select will go 1086 01:17:01,956 --> 01:17:04,896 through this and begin this solicitation process 1087 01:17:04,976 --> 01:17:08,486 for people do submit nominations to fill that position. 1088 01:17:08,946 --> 01:17:13,716 From that point, the group or executive committee would review those nominations. 1089 01:17:13,716 --> 01:17:17,526 And ultimately, the group will make a selection at a subsequent meeting. 1090 01:17:21,496 --> 01:17:24,836 >> To me, that seems a little cumbersome. 1091 01:17:24,836 --> 01:17:30,036 I don't know if there's maybe a way to maybe expediting that a bit. 1092 01:17:30,036 --> 01:17:31,926 I don't know if anybody has any ideas? 1093 01:17:35,326 --> 01:17:38,216 >> Well, it seems that every meeting is a work in meeting. 1094 01:17:38,216 --> 01:17:42,976 And we're learning a whole lot about how we're going to go about doing business as a group. 1095 01:17:43,606 --> 01:17:49,426 The longer we wait to fill anything, if there's going to be new positions filled, 1096 01:17:49,426 --> 01:17:54,226 the more catching up someone might have to do. 1097 01:17:54,226 --> 01:18:00,126 So is there any way on the new members, if we're going to add any new members, 1098 01:18:00,126 --> 01:18:10,286 could that be moved up to be done in a quicker method, maybe at the next meeting? 1099 01:18:10,286 --> 01:18:17,606 >> I'm not 100% certain, but the group is free to modify these bylaws as you all see fit, 1100 01:18:17,606 --> 01:18:22,536 so long as you're still in compliance with statutory and rule requirements. 1101 01:18:22,666 --> 01:18:34,096 >> I would propose a modification that the consideration of adding the position 1102 01:18:34,236 --> 01:18:37,176 and filling the position to be allowed during the same meeting. 1103 01:18:37,896 --> 01:18:45,406 And maybe since there's going to be a 15-day notice period, that should give individuals 1104 01:18:45,406 --> 01:18:47,336 who are interested in submitting potentially 1105 01:18:47,336 --> 01:18:50,946 for that new position to submit their qualifications. 1106 01:19:00,116 --> 01:19:06,906 >> Did you have any specific suggested language that you'd like to revise? 1107 01:19:06,906 --> 01:19:11,636 >> Sure. What section is it? 1108 01:19:11,776 --> 01:19:14,856 That's under it, right? 1109 01:19:14,856 --> 01:19:17,936 >> I also wanted to note that -- 1110 01:19:17,936 --> 01:19:18,606 >> Page two. 1111 01:19:19,036 --> 01:19:19,416 >> Sorry, go ahead. 1112 01:19:19,416 --> 01:19:22,346 >> It's page two, Section 4. 1113 01:19:22,346 --> 01:19:29,456 >> This is Joe Califa. 1114 01:19:29,456 --> 01:19:34,996 You know, I'm sure it's written this way to create the position 1115 01:19:35,586 --> 01:19:37,706 and you have to identify an interest. 1116 01:19:38,266 --> 01:19:40,826 And then that gives you till the next meeting 1117 01:19:41,416 --> 01:19:46,496 to prepare nominations for that particular interest. 1118 01:19:47,396 --> 01:19:54,046 So, you know, it's waiting one meeting. 1119 01:19:54,046 --> 01:19:58,966 And, you know, just for the public's interest, you know, if there are nominations 1120 01:19:58,966 --> 01:20:02,976 for a particular interest, they've got some time to do that. 1121 01:20:03,246 --> 01:20:08,886 So, you know I can live with if you want to create the vacancy 1122 01:20:08,886 --> 01:20:10,476 and fill the vacancy on the same meeting. 1123 01:20:10,476 --> 01:20:18,746 But I kind of see how you would identify an interest that you want to include as a member, 1124 01:20:18,746 --> 01:20:31,146 and then it'll allow you one more meeting to prepare nominations to represent that interest. 1125 01:20:31,146 --> 01:20:38,406 >> I agree with Commissioner Garza that I feel that a long time can pass and we would be -- 1126 01:20:38,786 --> 01:20:42,676 it would be a disservice to those individuals that are going to be added if it just takes, 1127 01:20:43,076 --> 01:20:44,646 you know, four or five months before -- 1128 01:20:44,646 --> 01:20:48,246 I know that we could technically notice a lot of meetings. 1129 01:20:48,246 --> 01:20:54,886 But realistically, you know, it may not be feasible to have meetings all the time. 1130 01:20:54,886 --> 01:20:56,496 I know I'm available. 1131 01:20:56,526 --> 01:21:01,406 But just logistically, that may not be the way that this particular organization works. 1132 01:21:01,406 --> 01:21:06,196 So I'd like to be able to do it at the same meeting. 1133 01:21:06,426 --> 01:21:12,386 And then whenever the agenda item is proposed, I think the agenda item should just call 1134 01:21:12,386 --> 01:21:15,226 for the creation of a specific category within it. 1135 01:21:15,666 --> 01:21:20,716 And people should be able to submit their applications like that, 1136 01:21:20,716 --> 01:21:22,836 and then we will just distribute it to all the board members. 1137 01:21:26,796 --> 01:21:29,056 >> But you're only providing seven day notice, I believe. 1138 01:21:30,016 --> 01:21:35,236 >> I thought we had to do a 15-day if we're going to be adding new members though. 1139 01:21:39,766 --> 01:21:44,986 >> It is. Sorry, I'm double checking that right now. 1140 01:21:48,446 --> 01:21:52,976 >> The only notice would be the posting of the agenda. 1141 01:21:53,896 --> 01:21:58,486 And if that's a seven day, that's not a lot of time. 1142 01:21:58,646 --> 01:22:00,656 So I guess that's really the question is, 1143 01:22:00,656 --> 01:22:05,886 is the posting of the agenda go -- have to be more than seven days? 1144 01:22:06,436 --> 01:22:11,606 >> Yes. The notice requirements for adding any additional voting membership, 1145 01:22:11,606 --> 01:22:13,686 so it's essentially changing the composition -- 1146 01:22:13,686 --> 01:22:17,106 the voting composition of the group would require a 14-day notice. 1147 01:22:18,056 --> 01:22:19,476 >> Right. And that's what I'm saying. 1148 01:22:19,476 --> 01:22:20,776 >> And that comes -- Sorry. 1149 01:22:20,806 --> 01:22:22,106 And that comes from the rules. 1150 01:22:22,646 --> 01:22:24,266 >> Right. And that's what I thought. 1151 01:22:24,266 --> 01:22:28,756 I feel that the agenda itself is the way that people get notice of what is happening. 1152 01:22:28,756 --> 01:22:34,086 So that to me creates enough notice to allow people to submit their credentials. 1153 01:22:37,716 --> 01:22:41,736 >> James, is it OK if I chime in here? 1154 01:22:41,946 --> 01:22:42,696 >> Yes, Morgan. 1155 01:22:42,696 --> 01:22:47,206 >> So I just wanted to point out the language in your model bylaws of -- 1156 01:22:47,806 --> 01:22:55,986 so the deadline for submission of a nomination is currently between 30 and 45 days 1157 01:22:55,986 --> 01:22:58,296 from the day that the notice was published. 1158 01:22:58,796 --> 01:23:02,616 I just wanted to point out that there's two different notices. 1159 01:23:02,616 --> 01:23:08,396 There's a notice for the meeting at which you're going to, you know, create a vacancy. 1160 01:23:08,396 --> 01:23:14,816 And then your bylaws in this section layout a public notice just about a vacancy. 1161 01:23:14,816 --> 01:23:16,666 So the public notice goes on your website. 1162 01:23:16,666 --> 01:23:23,356 And in the model bylaws, it says it goes to -- by email to all of the county clerks. 1163 01:23:23,426 --> 01:23:27,076 And this would be just announcing, separate from your meeting agenda, 1164 01:23:27,076 --> 01:23:28,956 announcing that there's a vacancy. 1165 01:23:29,476 --> 01:23:35,506 And as written, the deadline for submission, you'd have to keep it open for 30 to 45 days. 1166 01:23:35,506 --> 01:23:38,016 So I know you guys are talking about changing that. 1167 01:23:38,016 --> 01:23:40,596 I just wanted to clarify what the existing language is. 1168 01:23:44,226 --> 01:23:48,986 >> Does the statute require that to be in the bylaws, the 30 to 45 days? 1169 01:23:48,986 --> 01:23:50,746 I thought it was 15 days? 1170 01:23:53,356 --> 01:23:54,046 >> So the notice -- 1171 01:23:54,046 --> 01:23:54,726 >> No, that 30 -- 1172 01:23:55,516 --> 01:23:56,416 >> Oh, sorry. 1173 01:23:56,836 --> 01:23:57,936 >> Go ahead, Morgan. 1174 01:23:57,936 --> 01:24:03,306 >> I think you're talking about the 14-day notice that our rules have a 14-day notice 1175 01:24:03,306 --> 01:24:10,216 for your meeting notice, that if you're going to add a new position, a seat at the table. 1176 01:24:10,986 --> 01:24:15,796 And I would also like to clarify that filling a vacancy is different 1177 01:24:15,796 --> 01:24:18,056 than creating a new seat at the table, so. 1178 01:24:18,676 --> 01:24:19,336 >> OK. 1179 01:24:20,656 --> 01:24:23,376 >> So you guys have a vacancy right now in the -- 1180 01:24:23,376 --> 01:24:26,026 James, can you clarify which category that is? 1181 01:24:26,026 --> 01:24:31,976 I think it's river authorities or is it -- 1182 01:24:32,336 --> 01:24:34,346 >> Yes, river authorities. 1183 01:24:34,346 --> 01:24:34,456 >> OK. 1184 01:24:34,456 --> 01:24:40,136 >> Yeah. Putting a position on the agenda does not mean the position exists 1185 01:24:40,556 --> 01:24:43,486 until it's been voted for at the meeting. 1186 01:24:44,116 --> 01:24:50,386 To take nominations -- You can take nominations, but those nominations may not mean anything 1187 01:24:50,446 --> 01:24:57,416 if a condition of that position is not approved by the committee -- of the group, excuse me. 1188 01:24:57,656 --> 01:25:04,806 So it seems like a step 1, step 2, you approve the position then you looks for the nominations. 1189 01:25:05,326 --> 01:25:09,406 I know it takes longer, but to do it otherwise, you might get grumpy people. 1190 01:25:09,596 --> 01:25:14,196 >> Yeah. The problem that I see is that, realistically, 1191 01:25:14,196 --> 01:25:19,216 it's going to be 90 days before we get somebody in here, you know if somebody else is going 1192 01:25:19,216 --> 01:25:26,676 to come in, again just -- because it will be 15 days, then take the action, 1193 01:25:26,726 --> 01:25:30,806 then 45-day notice, then take the next action. 1194 01:25:31,426 --> 01:25:40,586 I mean, that's 60-days right there. 1195 01:25:40,786 --> 01:25:46,286 So, again, I'm just -- that's my point of view. 1196 01:25:46,736 --> 01:25:55,826 If anybody else has any other views, I'd entertain them right now. 1197 01:25:56,716 --> 01:26:08,436 >> If we include in the bylaws today adding positions, is that possible at this meeting? 1198 01:26:08,436 --> 01:26:13,006 >> No, because the rules do require a 14-day notice 1199 01:26:13,006 --> 01:26:15,626 for adding any additional voting positions. 1200 01:26:15,806 --> 01:26:16,006 >> OK. 1201 01:26:16,006 --> 01:26:18,976 >> And that was not included in the notice for this meeting. 1202 01:26:19,246 --> 01:26:24,326 >> OK. So we're stuck with the 90-days basically? 1203 01:26:25,996 --> 01:26:31,426 >> I will say, the fastest track possible will probably be the -- 1204 01:26:31,746 --> 01:26:35,306 Yes, you have to do the 14-day notice before the meeting. 1205 01:26:35,306 --> 01:26:41,546 At that point -- From that meeting, if the group decides to, you know, approve the addition 1206 01:26:41,546 --> 01:26:45,606 of voting member position, they could start that 30-day process that day. 1207 01:26:46,086 --> 01:26:52,586 And once that 30-day -- for the bylaws, once those 30-days is done, the executive committee 1208 01:26:52,586 --> 01:26:54,416 in the group can take action at that point. 1209 01:26:54,416 --> 01:27:00,656 So it sounds like a realistic -- I guess the fastest possible will be possibly 45-days or 40. 1210 01:27:02,806 --> 01:27:05,596 And also, you all can reduce those days as well, 1211 01:27:05,596 --> 01:27:08,886 the 30 to 45 calendar days shown currently in the bylaws. 1212 01:27:08,886 --> 01:27:11,226 That is not in statute or rule. 1213 01:27:11,226 --> 01:27:15,956 That is potentially something the group could change if you all decide. 1214 01:27:17,696 --> 01:27:18,886 >> One more clarification. 1215 01:27:18,886 --> 01:27:26,106 I just wanted to make sure that you guys knew that for your vacant position -- 1216 01:27:27,026 --> 01:27:30,756 Actually, I'm wondering is that on the posted agenda item for this meeting? 1217 01:27:30,826 --> 01:27:34,566 >> That's what I was looking at. 1218 01:27:34,566 --> 01:27:38,756 Morgan, can you confirm whether or not it is on today's notice? 1219 01:27:40,156 --> 01:27:41,176 Megan, can you do that? 1220 01:27:41,176 --> 01:27:41,686 I'm sorry. 1221 01:27:41,686 --> 01:27:42,076 >> I will. 1222 01:27:42,076 --> 01:27:43,366 Yeah. Pulling it up now. 1223 01:27:43,416 --> 01:27:43,976 One sec. 1224 01:27:52,046 --> 01:27:55,876 >> And yes, I guess go back to that. 1225 01:27:55,876 --> 01:27:59,676 Yes, the group can decide to shorten or modify that 30 1226 01:27:59,676 --> 01:28:04,696 and 45-day nomination period .right now if you all choose to. 1227 01:28:07,796 --> 01:28:10,196 That would not change the 14-day notice requirement, 1228 01:28:10,196 --> 01:28:13,246 but you all could potentially shorten the nomination window 1229 01:28:13,246 --> 01:28:17,406 so that you all can move faster -- potentially move faster after that 14-day notice. 1230 01:28:18,256 --> 01:28:20,906 >> I'd like to see it reduced to maybe 15 days. 1231 01:28:20,906 --> 01:28:23,456 Hopefully we can get this done before the end of the year. 1232 01:28:23,766 --> 01:28:27,856 And we will have everybody on board starting next year, 1233 01:28:27,856 --> 01:28:31,156 if that's what everybody else agrees to. 1234 01:28:31,156 --> 01:28:41,966 >> I have no problem with that, as long as it complies with the statute. 1235 01:28:42,346 --> 01:28:43,086 >> This is Joe. 1236 01:28:43,086 --> 01:28:44,796 I have no problem with 15 days. 1237 01:28:46,196 --> 01:28:47,876 >> This is Joe Hinojosa. 1238 01:28:47,876 --> 01:28:49,566 I'm good with 15 days as well. 1239 01:28:49,566 --> 01:28:51,026 Speed up the process. 1240 01:28:52,426 --> 01:28:55,246 >> I'd like to see that process as well. 1241 01:28:55,786 --> 01:28:56,896 Get everybody on board -- 1242 01:28:56,896 --> 01:28:57,076 >> OK. 1243 01:28:57,076 --> 01:28:57,686 >> -- if possible. 1244 01:28:57,686 --> 01:29:02,456 >> This is Joe, yes, I agree. 1245 01:29:02,456 --> 01:29:04,386 >> Within 15-days? 1246 01:29:06,156 --> 01:29:10,976 >> David Fuentes, I'm OK the 15-days. 1247 01:29:22,416 --> 01:29:22,616 >> All right. 1248 01:29:22,646 --> 01:29:24,716 Is there any objection to this language? 1249 01:29:29,276 --> 01:29:37,266 >> So just to clarify, we're creating a position, and then we have to give 1250 01:29:37,266 --> 01:29:44,556 at least 15 days for interest to be nominated to the position. 1251 01:29:44,746 --> 01:29:47,316 Is that correct? 1252 01:29:47,686 --> 01:29:48,536 >> Yes, that is correct. 1253 01:29:48,536 --> 01:29:49,656 That is the change that you all have made. 1254 01:29:49,656 --> 01:29:55,976 Yes, the 14-day notice would still apply, but yes, you all modified the 30 to 45 down to 15. 1255 01:30:01,376 --> 01:30:05,366 >> Mr. James, on another point, for the executive committee, 1256 01:30:05,596 --> 01:30:14,636 does it have to be the five, or can we add more individuals to the executive committee? 1257 01:30:14,636 --> 01:30:16,796 >> No, you all -- the group -- you all may change that make 1258 01:30:16,796 --> 01:30:19,126 up of the executive committee, if you all so choose. 1259 01:30:20,376 --> 01:30:25,126 One thing I want to point out is to be able to make sure of any -- to avoid any quorum issues, 1260 01:30:25,126 --> 01:30:32,246 if the executive committee does get too large, just to make you all aware of any issues 1261 01:30:32,246 --> 01:30:38,856 with having a quorum, you know, the group as a whole, if that group were to meet. 1262 01:30:39,216 --> 01:30:46,326 That will be something you all may want to avoid. 1263 01:30:46,326 --> 01:30:50,076 >> Yeah, I agree with James, because currently the quorum is seven members. 1264 01:30:50,076 --> 01:30:52,866 So you can have executive committee more than five. 1265 01:31:04,446 --> 01:31:05,356 >>Yes, that is correct. 1266 01:31:05,356 --> 01:31:08,806 Currently, the quorum for this group is six I believe. 1267 01:31:08,806 --> 01:31:16,456 >> I have a question regarding the -- we have an open position still in place? 1268 01:31:16,996 --> 01:31:18,326 This is Joe Hinojosa. 1269 01:31:19,006 --> 01:31:19,936 >> Yes, sir. 1270 01:31:20,566 --> 01:31:21,326 >> Do the -- 1271 01:31:21,326 --> 01:31:21,826 >> Go ahead. 1272 01:31:21,826 --> 01:31:27,006 >> -- nomination for that position, are they subject to just our board approval, 1273 01:31:27,006 --> 01:31:31,646 or do we have to go to the state on that one, or either the Water Development Board? 1274 01:31:31,646 --> 01:31:32,796 No, right? 1275 01:31:32,796 --> 01:31:35,096 >> No. It is up to the board to fill that -- 1276 01:31:35,096 --> 01:31:37,346 up to, sorry, up to this group to fill that position. 1277 01:31:37,346 --> 01:31:46,116 And so, the Water Development Board will not make any decision on filling that place. 1278 01:31:46,326 --> 01:31:48,406 It will be solely up to this group here. 1279 01:31:48,406 --> 01:31:49,186 >> Very good. 1280 01:31:49,186 --> 01:31:50,046 Thank you. 1281 01:31:50,046 --> 01:31:54,886 >> We categorize that or we could have -- 1282 01:31:55,646 --> 01:32:03,146 >> I'm sorry, could you repeat your question? 1283 01:32:03,146 --> 01:32:10,636 >> Can we change the category to something else, or does it have to stay as river authority? 1284 01:32:10,876 --> 01:32:15,486 >> It has to -- River authority is listed in statute as a required interest category. 1285 01:32:15,956 --> 01:32:23,426 However, from our initial analysis, we were unable to determine 1286 01:32:23,426 --> 01:32:26,036 or identify a river authority within the region. 1287 01:32:26,036 --> 01:32:32,296 If the group determines that you all indeed do have an entity or organization that can meet 1288 01:32:32,296 --> 01:32:37,946 that river authority definition, then yes, the group is statutorily required to fill that. 1289 01:32:38,306 --> 01:32:43,066 However, if you all determine that if indeed that interest position does not exist 1290 01:32:43,066 --> 01:32:48,866 within your region, you can let our executive administrator know 1291 01:32:48,896 --> 01:32:50,626 that you all made that determination. 1292 01:32:51,016 --> 01:32:53,956 And from that point, you all will not be required to fill it. 1293 01:32:56,356 --> 01:33:00,616 Does that make sense? 1294 01:33:00,616 --> 01:33:02,806 >> We have a Regional Water Authority. 1295 01:33:02,806 --> 01:33:09,596 That's different from the river authority, or semantics purpose, or is it the same thing? 1296 01:33:09,926 --> 01:33:15,136 So I mean, do you have any input on that one? 1297 01:33:15,136 --> 01:33:16,816 >> We have a -- Sorry, go ahead. 1298 01:33:17,236 --> 01:33:17,656 >> I'm sorry. 1299 01:33:17,776 --> 01:33:20,296 I think there is a difference between river authorities 1300 01:33:20,296 --> 01:33:23,486 and the water authority that we have. 1301 01:33:23,486 --> 01:33:29,546 We don't have the same bylaws or even the same laws. 1302 01:33:29,546 --> 01:33:31,316 We don't operate under the same statute. 1303 01:33:32,206 --> 01:33:40,156 We are different as an authority, as a water authority as opposed to a river authority. 1304 01:33:40,156 --> 01:33:45,486 >> I will say that our rules, Chapter 361.10 do include definitions -- 1305 01:33:45,486 --> 01:33:51,646 I'm sorry, 361.11 do include definitions for all of these categories, interest categories. 1306 01:33:51,986 --> 01:33:57,656 And so, as long as there is a district or authority that meets that definition, I'm sorry, 1307 01:33:57,656 --> 01:34:01,126 an authority that meets that definition of river authorities as defined in the rules, 1308 01:34:01,126 --> 01:34:04,536 they can fill -- they're able to fill that position. 1309 01:34:04,646 --> 01:34:15,426 >> I guess we'll need to look at that a little bit more, unless -- well, I don't know. 1310 01:34:15,426 --> 01:34:17,886 Sonia, I guess you're pretty confident 1311 01:34:17,886 --> 01:34:21,336 that they're different by the bylaws or what have you? 1312 01:34:21,746 --> 01:34:23,176 >> I'll take a look at that. 1313 01:34:23,176 --> 01:34:27,316 But James, wouldn't you say we could find the definitions for each of category? 1314 01:34:27,316 --> 01:34:33,996 >> In Chapter 361, I believe Subsection 361.11 I believe. 1315 01:34:34,626 --> 01:34:36,456 >> OK. I'll take a look at that. 1316 01:34:38,526 --> 01:34:39,466 >> Thank you, Sonia. 1317 01:34:40,746 --> 01:34:41,606 >> This is Joe. 1318 01:34:41,606 --> 01:34:49,566 Going back to that 18 number, we -- our membership can determine up to 18 interests. 1319 01:34:50,256 --> 01:34:54,176 The statute refers to river authorities and we don't have a river authority. 1320 01:34:54,646 --> 01:34:59,206 But without doubt, I think everybody would agree there are river interests. 1321 01:34:59,206 --> 01:35:03,776 There are people who understand the river that are going 1322 01:35:03,776 --> 01:35:07,246 to be valuable as a member to our membership. 1323 01:35:07,246 --> 01:35:10,206 And so, I was going to make a suggestion. 1324 01:35:10,206 --> 01:35:13,226 And I think everybody -- this is why this question is coming up. 1325 01:35:13,736 --> 01:35:15,196 There needs to be a river interest. 1326 01:35:15,196 --> 01:35:17,746 It may not -- It's not going to be river authority because we don't have one, 1327 01:35:17,746 --> 01:35:23,736 but we need somebody whether it's somebody from IBWC or someone else that understands the river 1328 01:35:24,186 --> 01:35:29,686 that I would recommend that we bring them on to our membership. 1329 01:35:29,846 --> 01:35:35,466 So -- And that's what I believe is that we've got a safety position that we can add. 1330 01:35:35,466 --> 01:35:38,396 So we can develop any interest that we want. 1331 01:35:38,396 --> 01:35:41,006 It's just not in the river authority, because we don't have. 1332 01:35:41,006 --> 01:35:43,916 But we need river interest in that. 1333 01:35:44,316 --> 01:35:45,896 >> So at the next board meeting -- 1334 01:35:45,896 --> 01:35:46,476 >> Yes, there is. 1335 01:35:46,646 --> 01:35:51,246 >> -- we would have had an agenda item to submit that request to executive administrator? 1336 01:35:53,746 --> 01:35:54,006 >> That -- 1337 01:35:54,006 --> 01:35:55,206 >> No, it's up to us, Jose. 1338 01:35:55,206 --> 01:35:56,956 >> Yes, that is up to all of us. 1339 01:35:56,956 --> 01:35:59,706 >> It's not up to the Water Development Board. 1340 01:35:59,706 --> 01:36:01,296 It's up to us. 1341 01:36:01,296 --> 01:36:01,636 >> Correct. 1342 01:36:02,006 --> 01:36:05,516 >> Yes. But I think to remove the existing one is by statute. 1343 01:36:07,366 --> 01:36:08,336 >> You're correct. 1344 01:36:08,336 --> 01:36:13,436 It is included -- It is a statutory requirement, unless the group determines 1345 01:36:13,436 --> 01:36:16,876 that such interest does not exist within the region. 1346 01:36:17,276 --> 01:36:22,676 I mean, at that point, the group would notify the executive administrator and the group would, 1347 01:36:22,676 --> 01:36:25,046 at that point, not have to fill that position. 1348 01:36:27,826 --> 01:36:31,216 It's not removed, it's just you all would not have to fill it 1349 01:36:31,616 --> 01:36:34,146 if you all determine that an interest does not exist. 1350 01:36:34,146 --> 01:36:38,786 I also want to point out that there's a discussion item for later in the agenda 1351 01:36:38,786 --> 01:36:42,236 for discussion of any potential additional voting members. 1352 01:36:42,236 --> 01:36:46,906 So we can -- there's plenty -- There'll be time to discuss that later. 1353 01:36:46,906 --> 01:36:50,426 If not, are there any other further discussions 1354 01:36:50,426 --> 01:36:54,046 on the actual bylaws that we have in front of us? 1355 01:36:54,046 --> 01:36:54,566 >> All right. 1356 01:36:54,566 --> 01:37:00,056 I have one comment in that it wouldn't be a voting member. 1357 01:37:00,156 --> 01:37:04,786 But I did ask that the first meeting, advisory council -- 1358 01:37:05,546 --> 01:37:11,706 groups so we can get expertise that we want -- they wouldn't be voting, 1359 01:37:11,836 --> 01:37:18,706 but we can take expertise that we want and put him on an advisory ad hoc or something like. 1360 01:37:19,536 --> 01:37:20,076 >> Yes, sir. 1361 01:37:20,076 --> 01:37:20,606 You're correct. 1362 01:37:20,606 --> 01:37:29,956 The group is free to add additional nonvoting members as well to provide input to the group. 1363 01:37:29,956 --> 01:37:31,356 >> James, this is Riazul. 1364 01:37:31,356 --> 01:37:34,326 I do have a comment on amending the bylaw. 1365 01:37:34,776 --> 01:37:34,966 >> OK. 1366 01:37:34,966 --> 01:37:39,476 >> I think it should be by two-thirds of the vote, not two-thirds of the members present, 1367 01:37:39,896 --> 01:37:43,326 because then you are amending a bylaw from 11 member, 1368 01:37:43,326 --> 01:37:45,396 you are amending bylaw with five members. 1369 01:37:45,916 --> 01:37:48,516 So that's two-third of that quorum. 1370 01:37:50,236 --> 01:37:52,866 >> I'm sorry, so you want to change -- 1371 01:37:52,866 --> 01:38:01,556 Do you want the amendments to be possible with two-thirds of all members? 1372 01:38:02,026 --> 01:38:06,886 >> Yes. The quorum should be, because otherwise, two-third are present. 1373 01:38:06,886 --> 01:38:12,346 As you can say 11 member, five member literally can change the bylaw, which we don't want it. 1374 01:38:17,836 --> 01:38:22,016 >> But, Mr. Mia, are we sure that these are great bylaws already? 1375 01:38:22,016 --> 01:38:29,926 I mean, I think -- I'm just worried that there may be a situation where two 1376 01:38:29,926 --> 01:38:38,426 or three people go MIA, and now we can't -- we won't be able to hit those numbers, just the -- 1377 01:38:39,686 --> 01:38:43,586 so people kind of drop off the radar, and then you need somebody else, 1378 01:38:43,586 --> 01:38:47,676 and it'll be impossible to modify it. 1379 01:38:47,676 --> 01:38:51,306 I mean, there's always a way, but it will be one of those gray areas where we're kind of stuck. 1380 01:38:52,846 --> 01:38:59,406 >> But you need to be a member to be in a meeting anyway, you know? 1381 01:38:59,456 --> 01:39:03,596 >> You would have to go through a whole process of soliciting nominations, 1382 01:39:03,946 --> 01:39:06,146 the proper notices the following meeting. 1383 01:39:06,146 --> 01:39:08,226 And it could take a while. 1384 01:39:08,866 --> 01:39:15,286 Has that been looked at by the other groups, James at all, as far as changing it? 1385 01:39:15,286 --> 01:39:15,556 >> I'm sorry. 1386 01:39:15,556 --> 01:39:16,696 Could you repeat your question? 1387 01:39:16,696 --> 01:39:21,296 >> Has Article 15, the highlighted in gray area, been changed by any 1388 01:39:21,296 --> 01:39:24,446 of the other 14 groups that you've talked to? 1389 01:39:25,476 --> 01:39:28,136 >> Yes. They -- I think pretty much everyone -- 1390 01:39:28,136 --> 01:39:35,296 All groups have made just the change of and/or amend as we revised earlier. 1391 01:39:35,706 --> 01:39:36,586 >> But that's it. 1392 01:39:36,586 --> 01:39:39,786 But not to include two-thirds of all members. 1393 01:39:40,986 --> 01:39:43,776 >> No. I don't think anyone else in any other groups have made that change. 1394 01:39:43,776 --> 01:39:48,416 >> Because I think that would, you know, that would tie our hands up to some degree, 1395 01:39:48,416 --> 01:39:53,296 as you said Mr. Caso, you know, it would make it challenging. 1396 01:39:56,796 --> 01:40:02,186 >> Well, that would also pose am issue if there was six people, which would be the quorum, 1397 01:40:02,276 --> 01:40:08,226 and then we got the two-third of vote, that would be four of the 11 people who voted 1398 01:40:08,226 --> 01:40:11,616 to amend the bylaws, which is a minority of the group. 1399 01:40:14,656 --> 01:40:14,846 >> Yeah. 1400 01:40:24,576 --> 01:40:26,476 >> I just hope it doesn't happen, you know. 1401 01:40:26,476 --> 01:40:28,316 Today, I think all of us are here. 1402 01:40:28,316 --> 01:40:30,386 There's 11 members present at this meeting. 1403 01:40:30,916 --> 01:40:34,016 But historically, in some of these types of meetings, people drop off 1404 01:40:34,016 --> 01:40:40,016 or have other preoccupations with their time, and then they're not around, you know. 1405 01:40:40,016 --> 01:40:41,796 That's the only concern I would have. 1406 01:40:47,786 --> 01:40:49,846 >> That was the concern I was going to bring up a, Commissioner. 1407 01:40:50,596 --> 01:40:55,466 An unfortunate illness or something that would prevent us from serving on the board. 1408 01:41:04,896 --> 01:41:06,946 >> So, may I ask something, James? 1409 01:41:07,586 --> 01:41:07,846 You know -- 1410 01:41:07,846 --> 01:41:08,286 >> Yes, sir. 1411 01:41:08,286 --> 01:41:13,096 >> I think in one of the sessions or some paperwork documentation that we received, 1412 01:41:13,096 --> 01:41:16,396 there was some discussion about having proxies? 1413 01:41:16,696 --> 01:41:17,406 >> Yes, sir. 1414 01:41:17,406 --> 01:41:22,466 There is a provision in here for designating alternates to attend on your behalf. 1415 01:41:23,136 --> 01:41:27,376 >> Now, will they have the same rights as voting members, if we're not able to be present? 1416 01:41:27,576 --> 01:41:30,256 >> They will have the same rights as voting members. 1417 01:41:30,256 --> 01:41:34,636 However, if a voting member is an officer, and that person is missing, 1418 01:41:34,786 --> 01:41:38,566 their alternate will not have the responsibilities 1419 01:41:38,566 --> 01:41:40,916 or rights of the officer position. 1420 01:41:41,026 --> 01:41:44,136 They will just be a regular voting member in that case. 1421 01:41:44,136 --> 01:41:46,036 >> But their vote would count? 1422 01:41:46,316 --> 01:41:47,456 >> Correct, correct. 1423 01:41:47,456 --> 01:41:49,466 They would just not fulfill the officer role. 1424 01:41:49,466 --> 01:41:50,536 >> There is also -- 1425 01:41:50,536 --> 01:41:50,836 >> And there's -- 1426 01:41:50,836 --> 01:41:57,096 >> There's also advance -- That also requires advance notice, correct, of a proxy vote? 1427 01:41:57,566 --> 01:42:02,576 >> Yeah. As currently written, the bylaws do require a 48-hour written notice, 1428 01:42:02,646 --> 01:42:04,296 designating that alternate. 1429 01:42:04,296 --> 01:42:09,776 It's 48 hours prior to the first meeting that the alternate will attend. 1430 01:42:09,776 --> 01:42:14,936 So that doesn't mean that the group -- You all could all name your alternates later today, 1431 01:42:14,936 --> 01:42:18,896 and that would be 48 hours prior till the next meeting. 1432 01:42:18,896 --> 01:42:21,636 It doesn't happen -- doesn't have to be just 48 hours. 1433 01:42:21,636 --> 01:42:28,466 It's a minimum of 48 hours prior to the next meeting that that alternate will attend. 1434 01:42:28,466 --> 01:42:33,656 >> And as far as naming alternates, does there have to be any formal documentation with respect 1435 01:42:33,656 --> 01:42:37,156 to like, let's say, myself and Commissioner Garza, in order to -- 1436 01:42:37,486 --> 01:42:42,816 we generally take these actions to court to get an approval or a resolution in support 1437 01:42:42,816 --> 01:42:46,556 of that alternate being named them acting on our authority. 1438 01:42:46,556 --> 01:42:49,036 Does Water Development Board require that kind of? 1439 01:42:49,456 --> 01:42:54,216 >> The only authorization required in the bylaws currently is just approval of the chair. 1440 01:42:56,196 --> 01:42:56,346 >> OK. 1441 01:43:06,316 --> 01:43:09,636 >> And again, another note is these bylaws can be taken -- 1442 01:43:09,636 --> 01:43:12,806 as you all mentioned, these bylaws can be taken up again at a future time 1443 01:43:12,806 --> 01:43:15,526 if you all determine that future changes are needed. 1444 01:43:22,116 --> 01:43:28,446 >> So James, are you -- are we going to be making a motion to accept the bylaws as -- 1445 01:43:28,656 --> 01:43:32,746 >> Yeah. I just want to make a -- I just want to get one final consensus 1446 01:43:32,746 --> 01:43:35,216 on this last item here on Article 15. 1447 01:43:35,806 --> 01:43:41,626 Would you all like to include a provision for requiring two-thirds of all voting positions, 1448 01:43:41,626 --> 01:43:45,986 or would you all like to keep the -- not have that language? 1449 01:43:45,986 --> 01:43:50,216 What does the group decide on this issue? 1450 01:43:51,486 --> 01:43:57,106 >> I would say leave as is without that last part. 1451 01:43:57,106 --> 01:43:58,356 >> Without that? 1452 01:43:58,656 --> 01:43:58,986 OK. 1453 01:43:58,986 --> 01:44:03,516 >> I think keeping consistent with the other groups, that would make sense to me as well. 1454 01:44:04,476 --> 01:44:04,836 >> OK. 1455 01:44:05,526 --> 01:44:06,146 >> I agree. 1456 01:44:07,306 --> 01:44:07,706 >> All right. 1457 01:44:07,706 --> 01:44:11,126 We're going to remove that then. 1458 01:44:11,126 --> 01:44:15,756 >> I'm going to be a bit fuzzy because I do look at the Robert Rules of Order a lot, 1459 01:44:16,486 --> 01:44:20,866 and I'm not trying to be annoying, but you -- 1460 01:44:20,866 --> 01:44:25,226 if you make a motion, it gets seconded, discussion, et cetera. 1461 01:44:25,616 --> 01:44:32,546 We're not doing that even close to the way Robert Rules or Order is written. 1462 01:44:32,816 --> 01:44:34,156 I'm not saying it's all bad. 1463 01:44:34,586 --> 01:44:40,126 But I think we're setting the template for how the group will operate in the future. 1464 01:44:40,666 --> 01:44:51,406 And so, I would like to see it is a reasonable pathway, but it does have its own little rules 1465 01:44:51,916 --> 01:44:55,196 to it that would prevent problems in the future. 1466 01:44:55,806 --> 01:44:58,126 Not today, but in the future perhaps. 1467 01:44:59,606 --> 01:45:00,276 >> Yes, sir. 1468 01:45:00,276 --> 01:45:06,166 When I opened this item up for discussion, I wanted to make sure we could hear from everyone. 1469 01:45:06,166 --> 01:45:10,866 I have not recognized any motions at this time yet for this item. 1470 01:45:10,866 --> 01:45:13,386 This is just a general discussion point. 1471 01:45:13,386 --> 01:45:18,686 At that point, I will -- after this discussion has ended and I feel we have consensus 1472 01:45:18,686 --> 01:45:25,766 on the revisions of the bylaws, I will open the floor up for any suggested motions at that time. 1473 01:45:26,276 --> 01:45:26,946 Excuse me. 1474 01:45:27,286 --> 01:45:34,816 >> And those suggested motions can include whatever caveat any one individual once included 1475 01:45:34,816 --> 01:45:36,166 in the bylaws, right, James? 1476 01:45:36,886 --> 01:45:38,126 >> Yes, that is correct. 1477 01:45:38,126 --> 01:45:44,856 This general discussion we're having now is just an open discussion. 1478 01:45:44,856 --> 01:45:48,536 After that, once we fill this consensus, I'll open this up for any motions. 1479 01:45:54,546 --> 01:45:58,456 >> I'm clarifying this, are you saying that you are opening up the floor? 1480 01:45:59,386 --> 01:45:59,816 >> Yes, sir. 1481 01:45:59,816 --> 01:46:04,806 If there's no further -- It sounds like -- I guess one last comment. 1482 01:46:04,806 --> 01:46:07,486 Is there any further discussion on these agenda items 1483 01:46:07,486 --> 01:46:10,386 or any further suggestions for specific language? 1484 01:46:10,806 --> 01:46:17,246 If not, I'll open -- I'm now opening the floor -- I will now open the floor up for a motion. 1485 01:46:17,246 --> 01:46:23,386 >> I'll make a motion to approve the bylaws as we discussed and made the changes to on 1486 01:46:23,386 --> 01:46:25,456 and that reflected in your paper. 1487 01:46:26,486 --> 01:46:33,076 >> I would like [inaudible] topic to the group before we do that on voting. 1488 01:46:33,076 --> 01:46:39,156 There is no language on voting is to operate. 1489 01:46:39,826 --> 01:46:44,696 There's, you know, yays and nays. 1490 01:46:45,006 --> 01:46:47,916 They're remote. 1491 01:46:47,956 --> 01:46:49,116 There's abstentions. 1492 01:46:49,506 --> 01:46:55,736 None of that is that I can see -- I haven't looked thoroughly on voting. 1493 01:46:56,276 --> 01:47:01,506 So how -- you know, you can -- do you have confidential votes or, 1494 01:47:01,506 --> 01:47:03,526 you know, raise your hand kind of thing? 1495 01:47:03,826 --> 01:47:07,276 I don't see any language in there on voting. 1496 01:47:08,266 --> 01:47:11,406 >> Yes, you are correct, there's no specific language I believe 1497 01:47:11,506 --> 01:47:15,476 in the bylaws dealing with voting. 1498 01:47:15,586 --> 01:47:20,396 However, as you mentioned, Robert's Rules of Order does allow the chair 1499 01:47:20,396 --> 01:47:25,826 to determine the voting process used for each item, unless essential motion is made 1500 01:47:25,826 --> 01:47:29,396 to request a specific voting process or method. 1501 01:47:29,826 --> 01:47:32,496 >> Exactly, that's correct. 1502 01:47:32,626 --> 01:47:40,346 >> And Commissioner Fuentes, I believe you made a motion to accept the bylaws as revised. 1503 01:47:40,346 --> 01:47:40,796 >> I'll second. 1504 01:47:40,796 --> 01:47:41,616 >> Do I hear a second? 1505 01:47:41,616 --> 01:47:43,246 >> I'll second the motion. 1506 01:47:43,946 --> 01:47:46,636 >> And who do we seconding? 1507 01:47:46,636 --> 01:47:48,446 Sorry, please identify yourself. 1508 01:47:49,296 --> 01:47:49,946 >> Joe Califa. 1509 01:47:51,346 --> 01:47:52,586 >> Thank you, Mr. Califa. 1510 01:47:52,586 --> 01:47:58,206 It has been moved and seconded to accept these bylaws as revised by the group today. 1511 01:47:58,206 --> 01:48:03,976 This item is now open for debate, if anyone would like to debate this motion. 1512 01:48:11,276 --> 01:48:14,806 Hearing none, we shall proceed with the vote. 1513 01:48:14,806 --> 01:48:18,796 Since this vote -- Since adoption of the bylaws does require a two-thirds vote, 1514 01:48:19,116 --> 01:48:23,066 we will do a roll call to ensure that that two-thirds threshold is met. 1515 01:48:23,836 --> 01:48:25,486 And so now, we'll do a roll call vote. 1516 01:48:25,486 --> 01:48:32,236 And as I call your name, please answer aye in the affirmative or state your name 1517 01:48:32,236 --> 01:48:34,426 and the no, if you oppose the motion. 1518 01:48:38,916 --> 01:48:40,436 Mr. Joe Hinojosa? 1519 01:48:40,566 --> 01:48:42,726 >> Aye, Joe Hinojosa. 1520 01:48:46,796 --> 01:48:49,116 >> Commissioner Garza? 1521 01:48:51,546 --> 01:48:51,613 >> Aye. 1522 01:48:54,246 --> 01:48:55,936 >> Mr. Daniel Lucio? 1523 01:48:57,326 --> 01:48:57,396 >> Aye. 1524 01:48:57,546 --> 01:49:01,146 >> Mr. Hudson DeYoe? 1525 01:49:01,266 --> 01:49:01,333 >> Aye. 1526 01:49:01,333 --> 01:49:02,396 >> Commissioner Fuentes? 1527 01:49:02,396 --> 01:49:02,463 >> Aye. 1528 01:49:02,463 --> 01:49:04,326 >> Joey Trevino? 1529 01:49:07,736 --> 01:49:07,806 >> Aye. 1530 01:49:07,986 --> 01:49:10,286 >> Vanessa Rosales-Herrera? 1531 01:49:10,496 --> 01:49:10,936 >> Aye. 1532 01:49:11,496 --> 01:49:12,356 >> Joe Califa? 1533 01:49:12,356 --> 01:49:12,423 >> Aye. 1534 01:49:13,206 --> 01:49:16,376 >> Jose Caso? 1535 01:49:16,376 --> 01:49:16,566 >> Aye. 1536 01:49:18,306 --> 01:49:20,416 >> Sonia Lambert? 1537 01:49:21,776 --> 01:49:21,886 >> Aye. 1538 01:49:22,076 --> 01:49:25,626 >> And Riazul Mia? 1539 01:49:26,836 --> 01:49:26,906 >> Aye. 1540 01:49:27,146 --> 01:49:32,236 >> I heard 11 ayes. 1541 01:49:34,166 --> 01:49:38,896 Megan, can you confirm that vote? 1542 01:49:40,016 --> 01:49:40,936 >> Confirmed, James. 1543 01:49:44,206 --> 01:49:45,666 >> Thank you, Megan. 1544 01:49:45,666 --> 01:49:50,506 I have 11 ayes and zero nos. 1545 01:49:51,216 --> 01:49:58,936 The motion passes, and the bylaws are adopted. 1546 01:49:59,136 --> 01:50:00,146 Congratulations, everyone. 1547 01:50:00,146 --> 01:50:02,386 You're now operating under a set of bylaws. 1548 01:50:02,786 --> 01:50:08,516 Next item on the agenda, number 6, is consider nominating 1549 01:50:08,516 --> 01:50:11,756 and electing a Regional Flood Planning Group chair or interim chair. 1550 01:50:12,286 --> 01:50:15,216 >> This is David Fuentes. 1551 01:50:15,216 --> 01:50:18,126 I'd like to nominate Commissioner David Garza. 1552 01:50:18,566 --> 01:50:19,156 >> Sorry, Mr. -- 1553 01:50:19,156 --> 01:50:19,696 >> I seconded. 1554 01:50:20,216 --> 01:50:21,046 >> I'm sorry, I'm sorry. 1555 01:50:21,046 --> 01:50:25,206 >> Sorry, Commissioner Fuentes, I just want to go over the process that we've laid out here, 1556 01:50:25,206 --> 01:50:26,996 and then I'll open the floor for nominations. 1557 01:50:26,996 --> 01:50:30,616 So just give us one second, and I'll recognize you after that. 1558 01:50:30,736 --> 01:50:37,256 Our plan here today is to after going over the process, I'll open the floor for nominations. 1559 01:50:37,346 --> 01:50:38,176 Next slide, please. 1560 01:50:38,406 --> 01:50:45,216 And the process as that laid out on the screen here is that we will open the floor 1561 01:50:45,216 --> 01:50:49,166 for nominations to serve as chair of the Regional Flood Planning Group. 1562 01:50:49,166 --> 01:50:50,866 This could include self-nomination. 1563 01:50:51,306 --> 01:50:53,846 And nominations do not require a second. 1564 01:50:53,846 --> 01:50:55,816 I just want to make that point. 1565 01:50:56,036 --> 01:51:00,006 Once I have received all nominations, I will confirm nominations 1566 01:51:00,006 --> 01:51:01,586 in the order that which they are received. 1567 01:51:01,846 --> 01:51:06,226 At that point, I will recognize each of the members -- 1568 01:51:06,226 --> 01:51:09,436 the nominees and they will be able to speak on their behalf. 1569 01:51:09,606 --> 01:51:17,496 At that point, once all nominees have spoken, I will then perform a voting roll call going down 1570 01:51:17,496 --> 01:51:21,726 and voting on the list of nominees as they are nominated -- as they were nominated. 1571 01:51:22,306 --> 01:51:26,736 Unless there is only one nominee and in that case, we will move forward 1572 01:51:26,736 --> 01:51:28,856 with a consensus vote for that nominee. 1573 01:51:30,016 --> 01:51:33,666 Each voting member can cast a aye or may abstain. 1574 01:51:33,796 --> 01:51:36,256 There's no need to cast a no vote. 1575 01:51:37,246 --> 01:51:40,986 If the first nominee receives a simple majority of votes from the voting members 1576 01:51:40,986 --> 01:51:43,486 who are present, he or she will be elected the chair. 1577 01:51:43,526 --> 01:51:45,626 If not, we will move on to the next nominee. 1578 01:51:45,796 --> 01:51:51,046 And that also means that the first nominee to receive a simple majority of affirmative votes 1579 01:51:51,046 --> 01:51:53,776 from voting members present will be elected the chair. 1580 01:51:54,556 --> 01:52:00,946 At which point, if we are not able to elect a chair after a round a voting, 1581 01:52:01,836 --> 01:52:07,556 we can proceed to nomination of an interim chair, if the group so chooses. 1582 01:52:08,336 --> 01:52:15,816 With that, if there's any -- is there any objection to this process from the group? 1583 01:52:15,816 --> 01:52:18,556 If not, I'll open the floor up for nominations. 1584 01:52:19,556 --> 01:52:21,536 >> Sorry about jumping the gun there, James? 1585 01:52:21,536 --> 01:52:24,476 I make a nomination for Commissioner David Garza. 1586 01:52:25,766 --> 01:52:26,316 >> Yes, sir. 1587 01:52:26,316 --> 01:52:31,036 Commissioner Fuentes has nominated Commissioner David Garza for the chair position. 1588 01:52:31,316 --> 01:52:34,306 Are there any other nominations? 1589 01:52:34,846 --> 01:52:41,856 >> This is Riazul Mia, I'll nominate also Commissioner Garza for the chairman. 1590 01:52:42,556 --> 01:52:45,686 >> Thank you. 1591 01:52:45,786 --> 01:52:50,516 Mr. Riazul Mia also nominates Commissioner Garza for the chair position. 1592 01:52:51,026 --> 01:52:54,866 Are there any other nominations? 1593 01:53:03,506 --> 01:53:06,176 Last call for the nominations for the chair position. 1594 01:53:10,076 --> 01:53:10,896 All right. 1595 01:53:10,896 --> 01:53:13,566 Hearing none, we shall close the floor for nominations. 1596 01:53:14,226 --> 01:53:16,296 Mr. Garza, would you like -- Or I'm sorry. 1597 01:53:16,296 --> 01:53:18,046 Commissioner Garza, would you like to speak? 1598 01:53:18,786 --> 01:53:21,406 >> At your service is all I can tell the group. 1599 01:53:24,836 --> 01:53:29,196 >> Thank you, sir. 1600 01:53:29,386 --> 01:53:30,956 With that, we'll proceed. 1601 01:53:30,956 --> 01:53:35,166 Since Mr. Garza is the only nomination, we'll precede with the consensus vote. 1602 01:53:35,806 --> 01:53:39,256 Those in favor of electing Commissioner David Garza as the chair 1603 01:53:39,306 --> 01:53:44,236 of the Region 15 Lower Rio Grande Regional Flood Planning Group, say aye. 1604 01:53:45,076 --> 01:53:45,436 >> Aye. 1605 01:53:45,736 --> 01:53:46,186 >> Aye. 1606 01:53:46,336 --> 01:53:46,636 >> Aye. 1607 01:53:46,996 --> 01:53:47,186 >> Aye. 1608 01:53:48,096 --> 01:53:48,406 >> Aye. 1609 01:53:48,406 --> 01:53:48,506 >> Aye. 1610 01:53:50,916 --> 01:53:51,316 >> Thank you. 1611 01:53:51,446 --> 01:53:53,906 Those opposed, please state your name and say no. 1612 01:53:58,076 --> 01:54:00,206 Hearing none, the voting is unanimous. 1613 01:54:00,476 --> 01:54:01,826 Congratulations. 1614 01:54:01,826 --> 01:54:02,696 The motion passes. 1615 01:54:02,696 --> 01:54:05,516 Commissioner David Garza, you are elected as the chair. 1616 01:54:06,386 --> 01:54:07,226 >> Thank you. 1617 01:54:07,596 --> 01:54:11,446 And thanks to the group for having confidence in me in doing this. 1618 01:54:11,716 --> 01:54:18,516 I hope that we can soon move on in our next meeting with electing the rest of the officers, 1619 01:54:18,516 --> 01:54:23,876 and also the at large members that will be serving in the executive committee. 1620 01:54:24,396 --> 01:54:26,816 But thank you so much for allowing us. 1621 01:54:26,816 --> 01:54:32,056 I guess the plan here is to move to Agenda Item Number 7, right? 1622 01:54:32,166 --> 01:54:32,736 >> Yes, sir. 1623 01:54:32,736 --> 01:54:37,606 And at this time, I'll offer, if you would like, you can take over the role of a chair here. 1624 01:54:37,806 --> 01:54:39,846 If not, I can keep facilitating. 1625 01:54:39,846 --> 01:54:40,646 It's up to you. 1626 01:54:40,646 --> 01:54:42,686 >> I would -- For this meeting, James, 1627 01:54:42,686 --> 01:54:45,596 I would like you to continue to facilitate in the meeting. 1628 01:54:45,596 --> 01:54:49,506 That way, you know, we're in the role right here with your process, so. 1629 01:54:50,056 --> 01:54:52,856 >> OK. Thank you. 1630 01:54:52,856 --> 01:54:55,256 In that case, we'll proceed with the next agenda item. 1631 01:54:56,386 --> 01:55:00,466 Agenda Item Number 7 is consideration of selecting a planning group sponsor to act 1632 01:55:00,466 --> 01:55:02,176 on behalf of the Regional Flood Planning Group. 1633 01:55:03,466 --> 01:55:03,976 Next slide, please. 1634 01:55:11,776 --> 01:55:20,456 Morgan, are there -- does anyone from the public signed up to speak on this item? 1635 01:55:20,456 --> 01:55:24,176 >> Yes. Would you like to introduce the list of who's interested first, 1636 01:55:24,176 --> 01:55:26,066 or do you want me to go to public comments first? 1637 01:55:26,206 --> 01:55:30,926 >> Let's go to public comments first. 1638 01:55:31,166 --> 01:55:37,046 >> OK. Great, we do have Travis Pruski 1639 01:55:37,136 --> 01:55:41,436 with the Nueces River Authority signed up to speak on this item. 1640 01:55:45,336 --> 01:55:47,856 >> You can go to the next slide while he's speaking. 1641 01:55:48,456 --> 01:55:48,656 >> Sure. 1642 01:55:48,656 --> 01:55:54,186 >> And just for the group to know, we'll -- Sorry, hold on one second, Morgan. 1643 01:55:54,186 --> 01:55:56,746 We'll have a public comment period to allow members 1644 01:55:56,746 --> 01:56:00,306 of the public to provide comment on this item. 1645 01:56:00,306 --> 01:56:05,126 After that, we'll open it up for the group to discuss and entertain any potential motions. 1646 01:56:05,186 --> 01:56:07,666 Go ahead, Morgan. 1647 01:56:07,796 --> 01:56:13,396 >> OK. I have unmuted you, Mr. Pruski. 1648 01:56:13,396 --> 01:56:15,916 I think you also have to unmute yourself on your end. 1649 01:56:16,476 --> 01:56:18,216 >> Yes. Can you hear me now? 1650 01:56:18,256 --> 01:56:18,626 >> Yes. 1651 01:56:19,056 --> 01:56:19,396 >> Yes, sir. 1652 01:56:19,396 --> 01:56:21,176 >> Excellent. 1653 01:56:21,176 --> 01:56:25,666 Yes. My name is Travis Pruski, and I am the Planner for the Nueces River Authority. 1654 01:56:25,696 --> 01:56:29,586 And we are interested in helping you guys as your group sponsor. 1655 01:56:30,136 --> 01:56:32,706 We have worked with TWDB before. 1656 01:56:32,836 --> 01:56:36,276 We are the Region N water planning sponsors. 1657 01:56:36,276 --> 01:56:38,576 We just love, guys, to help you out. 1658 01:56:38,576 --> 01:56:42,726 We have quite a bit of expertise and a pretty good staff to help us -- 1659 01:56:42,726 --> 01:56:45,586 help you guys through this whole process. 1660 01:56:45,586 --> 01:56:47,036 And we're just extremely interested. 1661 01:56:47,036 --> 01:56:51,536 And I know we have our meeting place in the valid area, but we do have other location 1662 01:56:51,536 --> 01:56:56,366 in the Rio Grande Region when we're able to meet again to meet more locally if needed. 1663 01:56:57,816 --> 01:57:02,636 We've been doing the Region N planning for 20 years now. 1664 01:57:02,636 --> 01:57:05,176 So we have quite a bit experience with this type of project. 1665 01:57:06,336 --> 01:57:08,856 Thank you for your time. 1666 01:57:09,006 --> 01:57:09,736 >> Thank you, sir. 1667 01:57:11,606 --> 01:57:13,426 >> This is Joe Caso. 1668 01:57:13,426 --> 01:57:15,126 I believe -- I'm sorry. 1669 01:57:15,456 --> 01:57:21,906 I believe Raul Sesin is attempting to present. 1670 01:57:22,176 --> 01:57:23,156 I apologize. 1671 01:57:24,696 --> 01:57:28,356 >> Yes. I believe we have one or two more -- 1672 01:57:28,356 --> 01:57:30,946 at least one more member of the public who wish to make a comment. 1673 01:57:30,946 --> 01:57:34,296 I mean, at that point, Mr. Caso, we can get into the group discussion 1674 01:57:34,296 --> 01:57:36,766 and you can make any comments that you'd like there. 1675 01:57:36,766 --> 01:57:37,536 >> Thank you. 1676 01:57:37,606 --> 01:57:41,326 >> Morgan, do we have anyone else signed up? 1677 01:57:41,426 --> 01:57:42,856 Sorry, go ahead. 1678 01:57:42,856 --> 01:57:44,156 >> Yes. No, that's fine. 1679 01:57:44,156 --> 01:57:47,856 John Byrum with the Nueces River Authority. 1680 01:57:47,856 --> 01:57:53,246 Let me see if I can -- I've unmuted you, Mr. Byrum. 1681 01:57:53,246 --> 01:57:55,556 You might need to unmute yourself on your end as well. 1682 01:57:56,336 --> 01:57:57,166 >> Yes, I did. 1683 01:57:57,166 --> 01:57:58,396 My name is John Byrum. 1684 01:57:58,396 --> 01:58:01,036 I'm the Executive Director of Nueces River Authority. 1685 01:58:01,036 --> 01:58:03,526 And, you know, I'm really pleased to be with you folks today. 1686 01:58:03,526 --> 01:58:05,406 I'm excited about this process. 1687 01:58:05,406 --> 01:58:10,326 I'm old enough to have seen Senate Bill 1 and the excellent model 1688 01:58:10,326 --> 01:58:13,146 that the Texas Water Development Board put together. 1689 01:58:13,496 --> 01:58:18,686 I've watched it formed, and I've watched it over the past 20 years work. 1690 01:58:18,846 --> 01:58:22,086 And it is an excellent format. 1691 01:58:22,086 --> 01:58:24,826 And I am equally excited about this. 1692 01:58:24,826 --> 01:58:31,896 And I feel like that we will reach our goal of planning for floods -- flooding over the next -- 1693 01:58:31,896 --> 01:58:38,596 over the future so our kids and grandkids will be safe and have plenty of water to drink. 1694 01:58:38,596 --> 01:58:41,826 You say why the Nueces River Authority, why we're interested in this. 1695 01:58:41,826 --> 01:58:44,456 Many of the counties that we -- that are 1696 01:58:44,456 --> 01:58:50,316 within the Nueces River Authority basin are also in the Lower Rio Grande basin. 1697 01:58:50,316 --> 01:58:54,556 We've been working down in the Lower Rio Grande basin 1698 01:58:54,556 --> 01:59:00,306 for quite some time doing water quality activity on water resource protection activities. 1699 01:59:00,446 --> 01:59:05,216 We've also done some project management activities for many 1700 01:59:05,216 --> 01:59:10,586 of your nonprofit agencies and cities down in that area. 1701 01:59:10,726 --> 01:59:12,896 We are familiar with the process. 1702 01:59:12,896 --> 01:59:15,646 As Travis told you, we've worked for many years 1703 01:59:15,706 --> 01:59:19,476 on the Development Board Planning Group, the Water Planning Group. 1704 01:59:19,476 --> 01:59:24,936 I'm a member of Region L. Travis is working with the Region N group. 1705 01:59:25,136 --> 01:59:28,456 And we'd just like the opportunity to serve you 1706 01:59:28,866 --> 01:59:32,826 and to handle your administrative duties for you. 1707 01:59:33,266 --> 01:59:38,226 And you know wherever you want the meetings, as I said, we serve you. 1708 01:59:38,226 --> 01:59:40,196 You just tell us and we will put that together. 1709 01:59:40,196 --> 01:59:44,576 So we welcome this opportunity and hope that you would consider us for this position. 1710 01:59:45,946 --> 01:59:47,336 Thank you. 1711 01:59:48,246 --> 01:59:48,616 >> Thank you. 1712 01:59:48,616 --> 01:59:53,816 We also would like to invite any members of the public wishing to provide public comments 1713 01:59:53,816 --> 01:59:59,566 on this item to click the Raise Your Hand button on the GoToWebinar system. 1714 02:00:00,336 --> 02:00:03,726 And I do see that we have one hand raised. 1715 02:00:05,756 --> 02:00:07,066 Give me just a moment. 1716 02:00:10,226 --> 02:00:20,536 Mr. Manuel Cruz, I've unmuted you and you can unmute yourself on your end as well. 1717 02:00:24,756 --> 02:00:25,896 >> Good afternoon, can you hear me? 1718 02:00:27,296 --> 02:00:27,526 >> Yes. 1719 02:00:27,526 --> 02:00:27,956 >> Yes sir. 1720 02:00:27,956 --> 02:00:31,506 >> OK. Well, good afternoon committee members, 1721 02:00:31,506 --> 02:00:37,046 congratulations on first establishing the structure. 1722 02:00:37,046 --> 02:00:38,556 Yeah. My name is Manuel Cruz. 1723 02:00:38,556 --> 02:00:43,046 I'm the Executive Director of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. 1724 02:00:43,046 --> 02:00:46,606 I welcome this challenge and look forward to it. 1725 02:00:46,606 --> 02:00:53,886 As most of you are aware, we have over 50 years of experience dealing with a variety of programs 1726 02:00:53,886 --> 02:01:00,006 within the Lower Rio Grande Valley area -- coverage area. 1727 02:01:00,006 --> 02:01:04,106 We manage multitude of programs, along with committees. 1728 02:01:04,106 --> 02:01:06,516 I think we have over 21 committees. 1729 02:01:06,706 --> 02:01:08,086 Fifteen committees are active. 1730 02:01:08,086 --> 02:01:14,406 That include the Region M. At one point, we had the Rio Grande Regional Water Authority. 1731 02:01:14,676 --> 02:01:19,666 We have various other groups, such as homeland security, criminal justice. 1732 02:01:19,666 --> 02:01:26,026 And we're anxious in a way to hopefully we are selected to be the hosting agent. 1733 02:01:26,026 --> 02:01:28,866 Looking forward to it and congratulations once again. 1734 02:01:30,636 --> 02:01:33,596 >> Thank you. 1735 02:01:33,596 --> 02:01:40,916 I did see a few other hands raised just a moment ago, and then saw them disappear. 1736 02:01:40,916 --> 02:01:44,676 So please let me know if by raising your hand, clicking the Raise Your Hand button, 1737 02:01:44,676 --> 02:01:49,796 if there's anybody else who wishes to speak on this item about the planning group sponsor. 1738 02:01:50,146 --> 02:01:53,116 There will be other opportunities for public comment later as well. 1739 02:01:56,046 --> 02:01:58,866 Right. James, right now, I'm not seeing any other hands raised. 1740 02:01:59,146 --> 02:02:00,686 >> OK. Thank you, Morgan. 1741 02:02:01,086 --> 02:02:08,126 >> Ms. Morgan, I believe that Mr. Raul Sesin was attempting to get on. 1742 02:02:08,126 --> 02:02:12,136 >> Yes. Those -- I was going to do an open call here. 1743 02:02:12,136 --> 02:02:17,056 We've heard from representatives from the Nueces River Authority and the Lower Grand -- 1744 02:02:17,466 --> 02:02:19,696 Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. 1745 02:02:19,696 --> 02:02:24,406 I was going to ask if there's anyone from -- in the audience today representing Cameron County 1746 02:02:24,406 --> 02:02:27,826 or Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1 that would 1747 02:02:27,826 --> 02:02:29,846 like to speak on these entities to have. 1748 02:02:32,316 --> 02:02:37,616 >> Cameron County will not be speaking. 1749 02:02:38,366 --> 02:02:41,916 >> OK. Thank you. 1750 02:02:42,126 --> 02:02:42,776 And -- 1751 02:02:43,036 --> 02:02:47,186 >> James, I did see that I've gotten an email that somebody registered 1752 02:02:47,186 --> 02:02:49,326 for the Public Comment Registration Form. 1753 02:02:49,326 --> 02:02:57,396 So let me -- do you mind if I check to see if that's on this item? 1754 02:02:57,396 --> 02:02:57,556 >> Sure. 1755 02:02:57,556 --> 02:02:58,396 >> Thank you. 1756 02:02:58,396 --> 02:03:03,026 >> James, Raul Sesin is with the Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1, and I think I heard 1757 02:03:03,026 --> 02:03:05,586 that he's trying to get on but there's a technical issue. 1758 02:03:06,036 --> 02:03:06,976 >> OK. 1759 02:03:17,006 --> 02:03:20,236 It looks like Mr. Salazar is here as well. 1760 02:03:20,236 --> 02:03:27,106 Would you like to speak from Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1? 1761 02:03:29,846 --> 02:03:30,966 If so, please raise your hand. 1762 02:03:41,976 --> 02:03:42,596 All right. 1763 02:03:42,596 --> 02:03:45,306 We can proceed with this item, the group discussion on this. 1764 02:03:45,306 --> 02:03:49,526 And if any of the representatives from these entities do raise your hand during 1765 02:03:49,526 --> 02:03:53,026 that discussion, we can recognize them at that time. 1766 02:03:53,026 --> 02:03:54,606 So we'll proceed with this item. 1767 02:03:55,636 --> 02:03:58,486 As I mentioned the -- And the list is on the screen here. 1768 02:03:58,486 --> 02:04:04,086 The Water Development Board solicited interest for entities that will be interested 1769 02:04:04,086 --> 02:04:10,796 in providing or interested in being the planning group sponsor for the Region 15 Group here. 1770 02:04:11,316 --> 02:04:15,716 We received interest from Cameron County, Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1, 1771 02:04:16,146 --> 02:04:20,196 Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council, and the Nueces River Authority. 1772 02:04:20,266 --> 02:04:22,376 I just want to note that the group -- 1773 02:04:22,636 --> 02:04:25,246 that the Regional Flood Planning Group here is not limited 1774 02:04:25,246 --> 02:04:27,516 to choosing a sponsor from this list. 1775 02:04:27,516 --> 02:04:30,406 They still may select -- you all may select anyone that you all choose to. 1776 02:04:30,406 --> 02:04:31,916 It does not have to be from this list. 1777 02:04:31,916 --> 02:04:35,996 This is just a list of entities that have previously expressed interest. 1778 02:04:36,676 --> 02:04:39,046 With that, I'll open this up for discussion with the group 1779 02:04:39,046 --> 02:04:42,616 and entertain any motions that you all would like to make. 1780 02:04:42,616 --> 02:04:43,996 >> I'm sorry to interrupt again. 1781 02:04:43,996 --> 02:04:49,206 I did get a chat from someone from the Hidalgo County Drainage Districts 1782 02:04:49,206 --> 02:04:50,616 that they would like to speak. 1783 02:04:50,616 --> 02:04:57,706 Is it too late to go to them? 1784 02:04:57,706 --> 02:04:59,336 >> Sure, let's go to them. 1785 02:05:01,546 --> 02:05:02,246 Who do we have? 1786 02:05:03,386 --> 02:05:09,286 >> Jaime or Jamie Salazar, I've unmuted you now if you'd like to provide your comments. 1787 02:05:09,536 --> 02:05:12,736 >> Yes. Good afternoon. 1788 02:05:12,736 --> 02:05:14,076 This is Raul Sesin. 1789 02:05:14,146 --> 02:05:16,766 I'm the Hidalgo County Drainage District 1 General Manager. 1790 02:05:17,096 --> 02:05:18,796 Thanks for taking my call. 1791 02:05:18,796 --> 02:05:20,246 We were trying to connect here. 1792 02:05:20,246 --> 02:05:22,886 We've been listening to the whole discussion that's taking place. 1793 02:05:22,886 --> 02:05:26,576 And for whatever reason, I guess I've been raising my hand 1794 02:05:27,096 --> 02:05:31,816 and submitted public comment form, but I guess it didn't go through. 1795 02:05:31,816 --> 02:05:35,576 But anyway, just first of all, I want to thank that Water Development Board 1796 02:05:35,576 --> 02:05:41,856 and Chairman Jackson for their foresight and planning and addressing drainage for our state, 1797 02:05:41,856 --> 02:05:43,516 and the planning group as well coming together. 1798 02:05:43,516 --> 02:05:46,026 Listening to all the planning group and all the experience that they have, 1799 02:05:46,026 --> 02:05:53,056 it's very exciting time for our area, for our state to tackle these drainage issues. 1800 02:05:53,726 --> 02:05:59,666 We definitely are very interested in serving as a sponsor. 1801 02:05:59,666 --> 02:06:08,546 The Drainage District has basically manages the entire drainage for Hidalgo County. 1802 02:06:08,836 --> 02:06:12,776 We have several regional projects that we work with adjacent counties, 1803 02:06:12,776 --> 02:06:16,226 both Willacy and in Cameron County as well. 1804 02:06:16,226 --> 02:06:20,246 We have the experience of the staff here, myself, you know, as engineer. 1805 02:06:20,246 --> 02:06:25,016 We have seven engineers on staff that manage drainage for our whole area. 1806 02:06:25,016 --> 02:06:30,706 And not only that, but we also have the facilities to host meetings, 1807 02:06:30,706 --> 02:06:33,706 the technical ability to host meetings. 1808 02:06:33,706 --> 02:06:40,366 We have the procurement in place to be able to put things together, posting, 1809 02:06:40,366 --> 02:06:42,516 the public hearing, things of that nature. 1810 02:06:42,516 --> 02:06:51,516 So, we're very well-equipped to serve as a sponsor for this group. 1811 02:06:51,516 --> 02:06:55,576 You know, we're very interested in how this develops. 1812 02:06:55,786 --> 02:06:57,376 We have all the resources in place. 1813 02:06:57,376 --> 02:06:59,486 You know, we have relationships with the Water Development Board. 1814 02:06:59,816 --> 02:07:03,996 We work closely with them, have the grant writing capability here 1815 02:07:03,996 --> 02:07:08,936 at the district to submit grants for the group. 1816 02:07:08,936 --> 02:07:14,126 So having said all that, you know, we look forward to be considered as a sponsor 1817 02:07:14,126 --> 02:07:19,556 for the group and look forward for the planning that's going to come 1818 02:07:19,556 --> 02:07:22,926 from this group to address these four areas. 1819 02:07:24,536 --> 02:07:29,326 >> Thank you, sir. 1820 02:07:29,576 --> 02:07:35,566 And it looks like we don't -- there's no other public comment at this time. 1821 02:07:35,566 --> 02:07:38,656 So with that, I'll turn it back to the group here and open it up -- 1822 02:07:38,656 --> 02:07:42,416 open the floor up for discussion and any potential motions. 1823 02:07:43,436 --> 02:07:44,816 >> James, I have a quick question. 1824 02:07:44,816 --> 02:07:49,146 In the paperwork that was submitted by each of the sponsors. 1825 02:07:49,146 --> 02:07:55,986 Did it have -- I mean, I'm not aware of any resumes or the qualifications, resources. 1826 02:07:55,986 --> 02:08:00,636 I know that we heard a little two or three minute presentation. 1827 02:08:00,636 --> 02:08:03,626 But was -- And I'm very familiar with our Drainage District. 1828 02:08:03,626 --> 02:08:04,686 I'm familiar with the COG. 1829 02:08:04,686 --> 02:08:05,906 I'm familiar with Cameron County. 1830 02:08:05,906 --> 02:08:14,236 But it -- was there anything submitted that was distributed to us? 1831 02:08:14,336 --> 02:08:17,306 >> I believe there was some information. 1832 02:08:19,586 --> 02:08:22,466 Give me -- I'm sorry, give me one second. 1833 02:08:22,466 --> 02:08:24,206 I can verify what was included there. 1834 02:08:24,206 --> 02:08:27,826 >> It was a political subdivision interest summary. 1835 02:08:28,256 --> 02:08:29,346 And it listed -- 1836 02:08:29,716 --> 02:08:29,856 >> Yeah. 1837 02:08:29,856 --> 02:08:32,926 >> -- this with the context in why the entity was interested, 1838 02:08:33,196 --> 02:08:36,696 what are the reasons why the entity believes they would be a strong sponsor. 1839 02:08:36,856 --> 02:08:38,986 >> I just didn't know if there was anything else. 1840 02:08:39,276 --> 02:08:40,496 Thank you. 1841 02:08:40,556 --> 02:08:41,546 >> No, sir, that was it. 1842 02:08:41,546 --> 02:08:44,536 And thank you Commissioner Garza for having that right in front of you. 1843 02:08:44,996 --> 02:08:49,986 >> Yeah. And I'll proceed, if there's any public comments or any other discussion 1844 02:08:50,426 --> 02:08:55,866 that is going to be had by the group. 1845 02:08:55,866 --> 02:08:57,686 Any nominations? 1846 02:08:57,686 --> 02:08:59,726 Any motions? 1847 02:09:03,476 --> 02:09:03,546 >> I -- 1848 02:09:03,796 --> 02:09:04,446 >> I would like -- 1849 02:09:04,446 --> 02:09:10,696 >> If not, I would move to approve the -- 1850 02:09:10,696 --> 02:09:12,686 >> I make a motion. 1851 02:09:12,686 --> 02:09:17,156 >> OK. Identify yourself when you're making the motion. 1852 02:09:17,156 --> 02:09:19,486 >> Yeah, sorry, Commissioner Garza. 1853 02:09:19,486 --> 02:09:21,076 This is Hudson. 1854 02:09:21,216 --> 02:09:25,486 I make a motion to nominate the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council -- 1855 02:09:25,486 --> 02:09:25,696 >> OK. 1856 02:09:26,006 --> 02:09:30,176 >> -- as being the group sponsor because right now -- 1857 02:09:30,226 --> 02:09:33,406 >> We're going to take nominations and then we'll vote, OK? 1858 02:09:33,406 --> 02:09:33,756 So -- 1859 02:09:33,756 --> 02:09:34,826 >> Yeah, that's my nominee. 1860 02:09:34,826 --> 02:09:36,286 >> -- any other nominations? 1861 02:09:37,446 --> 02:09:40,596 >> Commissioner, I'd like to nominate the Hidalgo County Drainage District 1. 1862 02:09:41,356 --> 02:09:42,466 This is Sonia. 1863 02:09:42,466 --> 02:09:43,486 >> Thank you. 1864 02:09:43,576 --> 02:09:44,566 Sonia Lambert, OK. 1865 02:09:44,566 --> 02:09:46,696 Any other nominations? 1866 02:09:46,696 --> 02:09:49,656 >> Commissioners, this is Riazul. 1867 02:09:49,656 --> 02:09:53,146 I'd also like to nominate Hidalgo County Drainage District. 1868 02:09:54,956 --> 02:09:55,856 >> Thank you, 1869 02:09:56,876 --> 02:10:00,286 >> Commissioner Garza, just to clarify, I just want to make sure, yes, 1870 02:10:00,286 --> 02:10:02,946 you are taking over as chair of this meeting, totally fine. 1871 02:10:03,046 --> 02:10:05,146 I'll be here to facilitate and help support you. 1872 02:10:05,146 --> 02:10:08,686 But I just wanted to clarify at that point for the minutes and for everyone. 1873 02:10:09,096 --> 02:10:09,546 >> Yes, sir. 1874 02:10:09,546 --> 02:10:12,726 I will. And then I'll ask you for support on the items as I needed. 1875 02:10:12,946 --> 02:10:15,566 >> Sure. I'm here to support you on anything you need. 1876 02:10:15,566 --> 02:10:16,206 >> OK. 1877 02:10:16,206 --> 02:10:17,016 >> Thank you, sir. 1878 02:10:17,696 --> 02:10:18,626 Proceed. 1879 02:10:18,626 --> 02:10:26,166 >> Any other nominations from the floor? 1880 02:10:26,326 --> 02:10:31,756 Hearing none, we will go ahead and proceed with the voting. 1881 02:10:32,066 --> 02:10:37,446 There are two nominations that have been submitted, the first one being the Council 1882 02:10:37,446 --> 02:10:43,246 of Governments, Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council of Governments. 1883 02:10:43,246 --> 02:10:47,366 And the proper way to do this, and I will have -- 1884 02:10:47,366 --> 02:10:51,256 There was someone on your staff James that was doing the roll call, OK? 1885 02:10:51,926 --> 02:10:52,876 If we can do that. 1886 02:10:53,386 --> 02:10:57,366 Can you -- we do the roll call for the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council 1887 02:10:57,366 --> 02:10:59,526 of Governments motion or nomination? 1888 02:10:59,526 --> 02:10:59,906 I'm sorry. 1889 02:11:01,176 --> 02:11:02,506 >> Sure. If you -- Let's take it up. 1890 02:11:02,506 --> 02:11:04,926 I'll be happy to go through the roll call here. 1891 02:11:05,576 --> 02:11:06,126 >> Thank you. 1892 02:11:10,966 --> 02:11:14,766 >> So as the Chairman mentioned, this is for the nomination 1893 02:11:14,766 --> 02:11:17,346 of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council 1894 02:11:17,346 --> 02:11:21,356 to be selected as the planning group sponsor. 1895 02:11:21,436 --> 02:11:23,146 I will do a roll call vote here. 1896 02:11:23,316 --> 02:11:28,326 As I call your name please answer aye in the affirmative, or you may also abstain. 1897 02:11:28,826 --> 02:11:31,286 Joe Hinojosa? 1898 02:11:31,656 --> 02:11:32,746 >> I abstain. 1899 02:11:34,836 --> 02:11:35,786 >> Commissioner Garza? 1900 02:11:35,786 --> 02:11:37,426 >> I abstain. 1901 02:11:37,426 --> 02:11:40,136 I serve on that board. 1902 02:11:40,946 --> 02:11:41,766 >> Daniel Lucio? 1903 02:11:42,376 --> 02:11:42,446 >> Aye. 1904 02:11:42,996 --> 02:11:45,126 >> Hudson DeYoe? 1905 02:11:45,326 --> 02:11:45,426 >> Aye. 1906 02:11:45,426 --> 02:11:47,626 >> Commissioner Fuentes? 1907 02:11:49,476 --> 02:11:57,256 >> Point of clarification, I actually serve on both boards. 1908 02:11:57,876 --> 02:12:04,386 Is it a conflict of interest to vote for either one? 1909 02:12:06,626 --> 02:12:08,796 And do I have to submit any forms? 1910 02:12:09,666 --> 02:12:13,266 >> You may abstain if you'd like. 1911 02:12:13,266 --> 02:12:14,966 It's up to you, I believe. 1912 02:12:15,956 --> 02:12:21,056 >> No, I'm asking whether it's -- if it's appropriate to vote or not vote. 1913 02:12:22,546 --> 02:12:26,556 I'm asking if it's OK to vote or not OK to vote. 1914 02:12:26,556 --> 02:12:30,596 >> You can -- Mr. Fuentes, this is Annette with the Water Development Board. 1915 02:12:30,746 --> 02:12:34,056 We've had this situation arise in other meetings, 1916 02:12:34,056 --> 02:12:36,736 and the members have done different things. 1917 02:12:36,736 --> 02:12:42,666 So whatever you all are comfortable with in terms of an appearance of a conflict. 1918 02:12:42,936 --> 02:12:46,746 >> But there are no -- I mean, there are no violations or anything like that? 1919 02:12:48,306 --> 02:12:55,886 >> It -- No, it's -- You know, because it's an appearance of a conflict, 1920 02:12:55,976 --> 02:13:01,566 so it's really what your group and you decide. 1921 02:13:01,566 --> 02:13:04,296 >> I'll abstain then. 1922 02:13:05,326 --> 02:13:08,736 >> Thank you, sir. 1923 02:13:09,096 --> 02:13:13,466 Joey Trevino? 1924 02:13:13,466 --> 02:13:16,146 >> I vote nay on that. 1925 02:13:16,346 --> 02:13:17,886 >> Thank you. 1926 02:13:17,986 --> 02:13:21,516 >> Vanessa Rosales-Herrera? 1927 02:13:22,836 --> 02:13:23,466 >> Aye. 1928 02:13:26,306 --> 02:13:30,306 >> Joe Califa? 1929 02:13:34,496 --> 02:13:34,566 >> Aye. 1930 02:13:34,776 --> 02:13:35,696 >> Jose Caso? 1931 02:13:36,316 --> 02:13:36,726 >> Nay. 1932 02:13:39,116 --> 02:13:40,596 >> Thank you. 1933 02:13:40,596 --> 02:13:41,956 Sonia Lambert? 1934 02:13:53,076 --> 02:13:54,686 >> Ms. Lambert? 1935 02:13:56,796 --> 02:13:57,216 >> I'm sorry. 1936 02:13:57,386 --> 02:13:58,126 I voted nay. 1937 02:13:58,356 --> 02:13:59,036 My apologies. 1938 02:13:59,096 --> 02:14:00,146 I was muted. 1939 02:14:00,196 --> 02:14:02,556 >> OK, thank you. 1940 02:14:02,556 --> 02:14:04,826 And Riazul Mia? 1941 02:14:06,886 --> 02:14:07,306 >> Nay. 1942 02:14:09,016 --> 02:14:18,646 >> Nay. I'm counting four ayes, four nays, and three abstains. 1943 02:14:18,646 --> 02:14:22,186 Majority vote was not obtained in the affirmative. 1944 02:14:22,186 --> 02:14:24,386 So the motion does not pass. 1945 02:14:24,386 --> 02:14:28,016 It was not carried. 1946 02:14:28,016 --> 02:14:31,966 >> We can now go to the second nomination, if we will, James, 1947 02:14:31,966 --> 02:14:34,436 and if you could call the roll, please. 1948 02:14:34,436 --> 02:14:34,846 >> Yes, sir. 1949 02:14:34,846 --> 02:14:37,836 Would you clarify which entity this is for? 1950 02:14:38,466 --> 02:14:42,396 >> The entity would be the Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1. 1951 02:14:43,626 --> 02:14:44,336 >> Yes, sir. 1952 02:14:45,086 --> 02:14:55,066 This -- I will now call the roll for -- It has been nominated -- Sorry. 1953 02:14:55,416 --> 02:14:58,896 The Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1 has been nominated to serve 1954 02:14:58,896 --> 02:15:04,876 as the planning groups sponsor for the Region 15 Lower Rio Grande Regional Flood Planning Group. 1955 02:15:05,036 --> 02:15:06,976 We'll do another roll call vote. 1956 02:15:07,146 --> 02:15:11,706 Please say aye or something else in the affirmative if you support the motion. 1957 02:15:12,366 --> 02:15:15,826 And you may have to abstain or vote nay. 1958 02:15:18,756 --> 02:15:21,306 Joe Hinojosa? 1959 02:15:21,306 --> 02:15:21,656 >> Aye. 1960 02:15:23,446 --> 02:15:26,996 >> Thank you, Commissioner Garza? 1961 02:15:28,266 --> 02:15:28,333 >> Aye. 1962 02:15:28,566 --> 02:15:29,396 >> Daniel Lucio? 1963 02:15:30,816 --> 02:15:30,886 >> Aye. 1964 02:15:31,006 --> 02:15:34,446 >> Hudson DeYoe? 1965 02:15:35,346 --> 02:15:35,896 >> Nay. 1966 02:15:37,346 --> 02:15:38,036 >> Thank you. 1967 02:15:38,846 --> 02:15:39,866 Commissioner Fuentes? 1968 02:15:40,826 --> 02:15:43,816 >> I'm going to abstain. 1969 02:15:44,186 --> 02:15:45,556 >> Thank you. 1970 02:15:45,556 --> 02:15:48,556 Joey Trevino? 1971 02:15:50,186 --> 02:15:50,253 >> Aye. 1972 02:15:50,253 --> 02:15:52,016 >> Vanessa Rosales-Herrera? 1973 02:15:54,226 --> 02:15:55,246 >> Nay. 1974 02:15:56,196 --> 02:15:56,896 >> Thank you. 1975 02:15:58,476 --> 02:15:59,226 Joe Califa? 1976 02:16:00,966 --> 02:16:01,226 >> Aye. 1977 02:16:04,316 --> 02:16:04,966 >> Thank you. 1978 02:16:06,156 --> 02:16:07,176 Jose Caso? 1979 02:16:07,746 --> 02:16:08,066 >> Aye. 1980 02:16:11,006 --> 02:16:12,276 >> Sonia Lambert? 1981 02:16:12,646 --> 02:16:12,826 >> Aye. 1982 02:16:13,646 --> 02:16:16,526 >> And Riazul Mia? 1983 02:16:18,026 --> 02:16:18,336 >> Aye. 1984 02:16:21,916 --> 02:16:22,576 >> Thank you. 1985 02:16:22,736 --> 02:16:27,136 I've counted eight ayes, two nays, and one abstain. 1986 02:16:27,656 --> 02:16:30,906 With that, that is the majority vote, the motion passes, 1987 02:16:30,906 --> 02:16:35,146 and the Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1 has been selected 1988 02:16:35,146 --> 02:16:36,736 as the planning group sponsor. 1989 02:16:37,646 --> 02:16:45,316 >> And make sure that the minutes reflect that Commissioner David Fuentes abstained on that. 1990 02:16:45,506 --> 02:16:45,996 >> Yes, sir. 1991 02:16:45,996 --> 02:16:49,036 We will note all of the abstains for these two votes. 1992 02:16:49,036 --> 02:16:49,556 >> Thank you. 1993 02:16:49,626 --> 02:16:54,726 >> Thank you. 1994 02:16:54,806 --> 02:16:59,806 >> Agenda Item Number 8 is consider additional region specific public notice requirements, 1995 02:16:59,806 --> 02:17:04,286 if any, that might be necessary to ensure adequate public notice 1996 02:17:04,286 --> 02:17:11,696 in the region per 31 Texas Administrative Code 361.123. 1997 02:17:11,696 --> 02:17:15,236 Can you elaborate, James, on this, please? 1998 02:17:16,026 --> 02:17:16,716 >> Yes, sir. 1999 02:17:17,146 --> 02:17:19,616 Next slide, please. 2000 02:17:19,716 --> 02:17:25,446 And we'll come back to -- After I explain it, we'll open up for public comments. 2001 02:17:25,446 --> 02:17:26,136 >> Thank you. 2002 02:17:26,316 --> 02:17:31,456 >> Sure. I want to point out that the existing notice requirements 2003 02:17:31,456 --> 02:17:40,636 that the group will be required to follow are -- can be found in 31 Administrative Code 361.21. 2004 02:17:40,696 --> 02:17:49,016 But the legislature and crafting Senate Bill 8 did include provisions or requirements 2005 02:17:49,016 --> 02:17:53,936 for the group to at least consider any region specific notice requirements 2006 02:17:53,936 --> 02:17:55,456 that you all would like to include. 2007 02:17:55,986 --> 02:18:03,796 Currently, there are posting notice requirements related to 7, 14, and 30 days public notice, 2008 02:18:04,126 --> 02:18:06,576 depending on the item being discussed. 2009 02:18:07,376 --> 02:18:15,056 However, the group is free to add any additional notices that you all see, you know, 2010 02:18:15,236 --> 02:18:16,906 determined to be applicable to the region. 2011 02:18:16,906 --> 02:18:21,266 These could include additional timeframes. 2012 02:18:21,696 --> 02:18:29,986 It could include additional types of notice requirements, such as more specific notices 2013 02:18:29,986 --> 02:18:34,546 if you're wanting to -- For example, for the nominations portion, 2014 02:18:34,546 --> 02:18:40,156 filling vacancies in the bylaws, there's the requirement to notify all county clerks. 2015 02:18:40,236 --> 02:18:44,126 If you all wanted to do something similar for all items, that if you all -- 2016 02:18:44,126 --> 02:18:48,636 if the group so chooses, you all could do more specific notice requirements. 2017 02:18:49,696 --> 02:18:55,856 There is also -- the group may also change or add multiple or different types of -- 2018 02:18:56,026 --> 02:18:57,796 or modes of notices, if you all want 2019 02:18:57,796 --> 02:19:01,056 to add a newspaper requirements or something along those lines. 2020 02:19:01,056 --> 02:19:04,646 It's totally up to the group to decide if you all would 2021 02:19:04,646 --> 02:19:08,076 like to include any more additional notice requirements. 2022 02:19:08,076 --> 02:19:12,286 It's totally up to you all to consider and decide on. 2023 02:19:12,446 --> 02:19:18,116 >> Are notice requirements allowed to be posted on the website only? 2024 02:19:18,456 --> 02:19:24,026 >> The -- Currently, it's required to be posted on two websites. 2025 02:19:24,026 --> 02:19:26,526 And that was the only -- currently the only requirement. 2026 02:19:26,526 --> 02:19:29,506 And that is the Regional Flood Planning Group's website 2027 02:19:29,506 --> 02:19:32,376 that you all will be required to develop and maintain. 2028 02:19:32,376 --> 02:19:38,146 And the second is on the Texas Secretary of State's website. 2029 02:19:38,146 --> 02:19:41,836 For these meetings that you all are having today, the Water Development Board, 2030 02:19:41,836 --> 02:19:44,726 we've taken the responsibility of posting those notices. 2031 02:19:45,116 --> 02:19:49,766 And since the group has not developed a website yet, we have posted it on the Secretary 2032 02:19:49,766 --> 02:19:53,566 of State's website and on our own, our Development Board website, 2033 02:19:53,846 --> 02:19:56,716 until the group has developed a website of your own. 2034 02:19:58,026 --> 02:20:01,276 But, yes, those are currently the only those requirements. 2035 02:20:04,116 --> 02:20:07,336 >> Any thoughts or comments from the membership? 2036 02:20:07,336 --> 02:20:12,596 Keep in mind, we don't have any money to advertise in newspapers. 2037 02:20:12,596 --> 02:20:18,136 >> Commissioner Garza, I'd like to note that I'm not sure if any members 2038 02:20:18,136 --> 02:20:20,446 of the public sign up to speak for this item. 2039 02:20:20,446 --> 02:20:23,756 But we did include a public comment item for this agenda item. 2040 02:20:23,756 --> 02:20:23,876 >> Right. 2041 02:20:24,066 --> 02:20:25,156 >> I just want to make you aware. 2042 02:20:25,956 --> 02:20:31,156 >> OK. Well, public comment before we go to our own discussion. 2043 02:20:31,896 --> 02:20:35,846 >> Sure. Morgan, do we have anyone signed up to speak on this item? 2044 02:20:36,716 --> 02:20:37,366 >> Thank you. 2045 02:20:37,366 --> 02:20:42,056 No, we don't have anyone who has pre-registered to provide comments. 2046 02:20:42,586 --> 02:20:44,676 However, any members of the public wishing 2047 02:20:44,676 --> 02:20:47,756 to provide comments can click the Raise Your Hand button. 2048 02:20:48,386 --> 02:20:51,776 And I'll just pause for a moment to see if there are any raised hands. 2049 02:20:56,646 --> 02:20:58,506 I'm not seeing any hands raised. 2050 02:20:58,506 --> 02:21:03,586 >> OK. Then we can proceed to our own members. 2051 02:21:03,816 --> 02:21:05,096 >> Commissioner Garza -- 2052 02:21:05,096 --> 02:21:06,776 >> Are there any suggestions? 2053 02:21:06,856 --> 02:21:10,606 >> Sorry. Commissioner Garza, I just wanted to make one correction. 2054 02:21:10,606 --> 02:21:15,676 I just wanted to note that the grant funding that will be -- 2055 02:21:15,676 --> 02:21:21,896 that your planning group sponsor will eventually be applying for does include -- 2056 02:21:21,896 --> 02:21:24,916 it does cover cost associated with posting notices. 2057 02:21:24,916 --> 02:21:28,296 So that will be an eligible reimbursement cost in the grant. 2058 02:21:28,296 --> 02:21:29,396 >> OK, OK. 2059 02:21:29,616 --> 02:21:30,526 Thank you. 2060 02:21:33,376 --> 02:21:37,126 >> But the only statutory requirement is a website posting? 2061 02:21:38,026 --> 02:21:41,766 >> Yes, sir, the website of -- your own website and the Secretary of State website. 2062 02:21:41,766 --> 02:21:42,626 That's correct. 2063 02:21:42,626 --> 02:21:42,693 >> Yeah. 2064 02:21:42,693 --> 02:21:48,696 >> I don't have a solution. 2065 02:21:48,696 --> 02:21:52,366 But some of the people who have interest 2066 02:21:52,366 --> 02:21:58,046 in what we're doing may not have internet access or easy internet access. 2067 02:21:58,576 --> 02:22:03,416 And so, web notices might not get to those people. 2068 02:22:03,416 --> 02:22:05,546 Newspapers, I don't know. 2069 02:22:05,726 --> 02:22:08,776 I don't have a good suggestion, unfortunately. 2070 02:22:08,896 --> 02:22:14,006 But there are entities we do want to, you know, be in touch with, 2071 02:22:14,006 --> 02:22:21,766 but I don't know how to reach those people. 2072 02:22:21,766 --> 02:22:24,166 >> Any other comments from any of the other members? 2073 02:22:24,456 --> 02:22:28,936 I think one of the things that we would need to do as we move forward on this is make sure 2074 02:22:28,936 --> 02:22:32,506 that we have a mailing list of all of the interested entities. 2075 02:22:32,506 --> 02:22:37,256 And I would encourage all of them, this group that is having this discussion now, 2076 02:22:37,776 --> 02:22:42,586 to be able to submit once develop our website, so that we can distribute 2077 02:22:42,616 --> 02:22:48,546 to our local websites all the interested parties that we know of that have an interest in keeping 2078 02:22:48,546 --> 02:22:57,376 up with this type of information, and access to it, you know, and be transparent about it, so. 2079 02:22:57,376 --> 02:22:59,016 >> Chairman Garza, I think that's a great point. 2080 02:22:59,016 --> 02:23:02,246 And that that segues nice into a reminder I wanted to give the group here. 2081 02:23:02,246 --> 02:23:07,386 And, yes, the point you're making there, I want to note that is a requirement in the rules, 2082 02:23:07,386 --> 02:23:15,266 I believe maybe in statute, that any individual who expresses an interest in receiving notice 2083 02:23:15,346 --> 02:23:20,096 about the group's activities, or publications, or any sort of -- 2084 02:23:20,436 --> 02:23:24,606 anything you'll put out there essentially, you all are required to maintain a list 2085 02:23:24,606 --> 02:23:30,056 and sends any information or notices to everyone on that list in the future. 2086 02:23:30,436 --> 02:23:34,826 >> OK. Thank you for the clarification. 2087 02:23:35,116 --> 02:23:36,716 >> Yes, sir. 2088 02:23:37,756 --> 02:23:39,136 >> Any other comments? 2089 02:23:39,136 --> 02:23:40,716 Any other suggestions? 2090 02:23:41,206 --> 02:23:45,566 Or do we proceed just with the websites as required? 2091 02:23:57,606 --> 02:24:04,476 Hearing none, you know, is there a motion that we need to take here 2092 02:24:05,006 --> 02:24:10,036 to approve the Item number 8 as it reads in the Administrative Code. 2093 02:24:13,116 --> 02:24:14,286 James? 2094 02:24:14,746 --> 02:24:21,136 >> No. No action is necessary if we -- you would not like to -- do not wish to make any changes. 2095 02:24:21,136 --> 02:24:21,346 >> OK. 2096 02:24:21,346 --> 02:24:22,726 >> It can just be a discussion only item. 2097 02:24:23,206 --> 02:24:27,196 >> OK. Again, I'm going to open it up. 2098 02:24:27,196 --> 02:24:32,906 Anybody have any other comments on this item before we move to the next one? 2099 02:24:32,906 --> 02:24:35,586 OK, if not, we'll move to Agenda Item number 9. 2100 02:24:36,786 --> 02:24:37,576 >> Commissioner? 2101 02:24:39,016 --> 02:24:39,556 >> Yes. 2102 02:24:39,746 --> 02:24:40,306 >> Commissioner? 2103 02:24:40,736 --> 02:24:44,246 Yeah. I don't have any problem with what we're doing right now. 2104 02:24:44,246 --> 02:24:48,686 But if we want to change and add later, I don't think it's a difficult process. 2105 02:24:48,686 --> 02:24:50,346 Is that correct, James? 2106 02:24:50,606 --> 02:24:52,106 >> That is correct. 2107 02:24:53,036 --> 02:24:59,446 The group can make this -- can revisit this decision at any future meeting. 2108 02:25:02,196 --> 02:25:02,636 >> Thank you. 2109 02:25:03,326 --> 02:25:11,476 Item number 9 is consider authorizing the RFPG sponsor to apply for grant funds and to enter 2110 02:25:11,476 --> 02:25:16,506 into a contract with the Texas Water Development Board on behalf of our group, 2111 02:25:16,986 --> 02:25:18,526 of the Regional Flood Planning Group. 2112 02:25:18,726 --> 02:25:25,686 And I open it up -- Would you need to give us any comments or any -- 2113 02:25:25,746 --> 02:25:28,346 >> Sure, I can -- Sure. 2114 02:25:28,346 --> 02:25:32,806 Yes, sir. This item, you all know earlier, previously, 2115 02:25:32,806 --> 02:25:35,846 you all just selected the Hidalgo County Drainage District number 1 2116 02:25:35,966 --> 02:25:37,476 to be the planning group sponsor. 2117 02:25:37,896 --> 02:25:43,236 And we've mentioned that there will be a grant agreement eventually 2118 02:25:43,266 --> 02:25:46,296 between this planning group sponsor and the Water Development Board 2119 02:25:46,296 --> 02:25:51,946 to facilitate the availability of grant funds to the group here for you all 2120 02:25:51,946 --> 02:25:55,336 to select your technical consultant and all of the work needed 2121 02:25:55,336 --> 02:25:57,536 to develop the regional flood plan. 2122 02:25:57,536 --> 02:26:04,716 This item here is for you all to authorize the Hidalgo County Drainage number 1 to start 2123 02:26:04,716 --> 02:26:08,186 that process and apply for grant funds from the Water Development Board. 2124 02:26:09,146 --> 02:26:15,326 >> OK. Any discussion from any of the members? 2125 02:26:20,236 --> 02:26:28,676 >> Is the funding kind of a template for all the groups that, you know, the sponsors do kind 2126 02:26:28,676 --> 02:26:34,406 of all the same thing up and down the coast, or how does that work? 2127 02:26:34,406 --> 02:26:38,286 >> The -- Each of the 15 groups, the Regional Flood Planning Groups, 2128 02:26:38,286 --> 02:26:43,986 will be operating under the same scope of work that are required to complete the same task 2129 02:26:43,986 --> 02:26:46,946 of developing the regional flood plans. 2130 02:26:46,946 --> 02:26:53,876 We have approximately 19, sorry 19 and a half, slightly under 20 million granted 2131 02:26:54,126 --> 02:26:56,486 by the legislature -- or appropriated by the legislature 2132 02:26:56,946 --> 02:26:59,426 that will be allocated amongst the 15 groups. 2133 02:26:59,426 --> 02:27:06,316 There is a formula driven process to allocate those funds. 2134 02:27:06,316 --> 02:27:08,146 And that will be presented to our board -- 2135 02:27:08,146 --> 02:27:11,056 that allocation along with the request for applications 2136 02:27:11,436 --> 02:27:16,236 for these grant agreements will be presented to our board members expected 2137 02:27:16,386 --> 02:27:19,406 to be presented on November 19th board meeting. 2138 02:27:20,456 --> 02:27:23,526 And so, we'll have more information about those allocations at that time. 2139 02:27:24,436 --> 02:27:25,326 >> OK. Any -- 2140 02:27:29,766 --> 02:27:35,636 >> I'll make a motion to approve the application for grant. 2141 02:27:37,336 --> 02:27:37,806 >> OK. 2142 02:27:37,806 --> 02:27:38,606 >> I seconded. 2143 02:27:39,436 --> 02:27:42,276 >> OK. The name -- Mia did the motion. 2144 02:27:42,276 --> 02:27:43,486 Who second the motion, please? 2145 02:27:44,126 --> 02:27:45,146 >> I second it. 2146 02:27:45,146 --> 02:27:48,176 I think Joe did the motion, no? 2147 02:27:49,776 --> 02:27:50,376 >> Yes. 2148 02:27:52,246 --> 02:27:52,866 >> OK. 2149 02:27:53,446 --> 02:27:58,816 >> Commissioner, can we add also in the same motion or do we need another motion, James, 2150 02:27:58,816 --> 02:28:02,356 to allow the Water Development Board also to accept? 2151 02:28:02,356 --> 02:28:05,906 I think it was just moved for the sponsor too, but we need the Water Development Board 2152 02:28:06,006 --> 02:28:10,546 to have a contract with sponsor as well, correct? 2153 02:28:11,546 --> 02:28:16,226 >> I believe this item should cover both of those issues. 2154 02:28:16,226 --> 02:28:16,936 >> All right. 2155 02:28:16,936 --> 02:28:17,736 >> OK, OK. 2156 02:28:18,036 --> 02:28:19,756 Thank you, Sonia, for bringing that up. 2157 02:28:19,756 --> 02:28:22,766 OK. We have a motion and a second. 2158 02:28:22,766 --> 02:28:23,886 Any other discussion? 2159 02:28:25,506 --> 02:28:30,426 If not, James, would you please call the roll? 2160 02:28:30,556 --> 02:28:31,406 >> Sure. Yes, sir. 2161 02:28:33,596 --> 02:28:39,706 >> This item is for -- to authorize the Hidalgo County Drainage District number one to apply 2162 02:28:39,706 --> 02:28:45,096 for grant funds and enter into a contract with the Texas Water Development Board on behalf 2163 02:28:45,096 --> 02:28:46,586 of the Regional Flood Planning Group. 2164 02:28:46,586 --> 02:28:49,466 I should now do a roll call vote. 2165 02:28:49,466 --> 02:28:53,816 As I call your name, please answer aye or something else in the affirmative 2166 02:28:53,966 --> 02:29:00,636 if you support the motion, or else no if you do not support the motion, and email so abstain. 2167 02:29:00,946 --> 02:29:04,736 Joe Hinojosa? 2168 02:29:05,746 --> 02:29:06,096 >> Aye. 2169 02:29:06,276 --> 02:29:09,296 >> Commissioner Garza? 2170 02:29:09,886 --> 02:29:10,276 >> Aye 2171 02:29:12,856 --> 02:29:14,836 >> Daniel Lucio? 2172 02:29:16,326 --> 02:29:16,396 >> Aye. 2173 02:29:16,616 --> 02:29:20,136 >> Hudson DeYoe? 2174 02:29:20,876 --> 02:29:20,943 >> Aye. 2175 02:29:21,356 --> 02:29:24,456 >> Commissioner Fuentes? 2176 02:29:24,816 --> 02:29:24,883 >> Aye. 2177 02:29:26,276 --> 02:29:26,916 >> Joey Trevino? 2178 02:29:26,916 --> 02:29:27,046 >> Aye. 2179 02:29:28,706 --> 02:29:30,106 >> Vanessa Rosales-Herrera? 2180 02:29:31,816 --> 02:29:31,886 >> Aye. 2181 02:29:32,056 --> 02:29:36,586 >> Joe Califa? 2182 02:29:36,686 --> 02:29:37,076 >> Yes. 2183 02:29:39,906 --> 02:29:42,796 >> Jose Caso? 2184 02:29:42,916 --> 02:29:43,016 >> Aye. 2185 02:29:44,396 --> 02:29:47,826 >> Sonia Lambert? 2186 02:29:48,326 --> 02:29:48,646 >> Aye. 2187 02:29:50,676 --> 02:29:53,706 >> Riazul Mia? 2188 02:29:54,636 --> 02:29:54,706 >> Aye. 2189 02:30:02,586 --> 02:30:05,646 >> Counted 11 aye votes, Mr. Chairman. 2190 02:30:05,646 --> 02:30:07,366 Motion passes. 2191 02:30:08,236 --> 02:30:09,336 >> Thank you. 2192 02:30:09,676 --> 02:30:13,836 So work already to be done by our partner. 2193 02:30:14,046 --> 02:30:20,116 OK. The next item we have on our agenda is Agenda Item number 10, which is discussion 2194 02:30:20,116 --> 02:30:25,136 of necessary additional voting and nonvoting positions that may be needed 2195 02:30:25,136 --> 02:30:30,316 to ensure adequate representation from the region -- from the interest in the region. 2196 02:30:30,946 --> 02:30:37,626 And the discussion here again, if you can just background as a little bit, James, 2197 02:30:37,626 --> 02:30:41,916 to make sure that we're refreshed. 2198 02:30:41,916 --> 02:30:45,896 >> Sure. This is a discussion on it, as you all -- 2199 02:30:46,076 --> 02:30:49,116 and some of you all discussed earlier when we were talking about the bylaws, 2200 02:30:49,456 --> 02:30:54,976 this is in regards to the -- or if the group decides to add any additional voting 2201 02:30:54,976 --> 02:30:58,076 or nonvoting positions that you all feel may be necessary 2202 02:30:58,076 --> 02:31:01,676 to ensure adequate representation from interest in the region. 2203 02:31:01,676 --> 02:31:08,086 This does require a 14-day notice in order to make any changes to the groups. 2204 02:31:08,086 --> 02:31:11,266 And since that wasn't -- notice was not included on this meeting -- 2205 02:31:11,426 --> 02:31:14,886 part of this meeting's agenda, this is a discussion only topic. 2206 02:31:14,886 --> 02:31:17,026 So no action can be taken at this time. 2207 02:31:17,396 --> 02:31:21,546 However, the group is free to discuss it. 2208 02:31:21,706 --> 02:31:26,276 And we've also included a public comment portion for this item. 2209 02:31:26,656 --> 02:31:30,076 >> I would like to go to public comment. 2210 02:31:30,076 --> 02:31:33,406 If Morgan can check and see if there's anyone in the public that is wishing 2211 02:31:33,406 --> 02:31:36,546 to make any comments on this particular item. 2212 02:31:36,906 --> 02:31:37,316 >> Sure. 2213 02:31:37,426 --> 02:31:39,166 >> Sure, thank you. 2214 02:31:39,166 --> 02:31:43,876 We don't have anyone who's pre-registered to provide comments, however, again, 2215 02:31:43,876 --> 02:31:49,566 any members of the public wishing to provide comments can click the Raise Your Hand button. 2216 02:31:53,546 --> 02:31:55,866 And I'm not seeing any hands raised. 2217 02:31:56,896 --> 02:31:57,996 >> OK. Thank you. 2218 02:31:57,996 --> 02:31:59,706 If you do see any, please let me know. 2219 02:31:59,706 --> 02:32:10,926 Then I will entertain any discussion from the members of the group. 2220 02:32:10,996 --> 02:32:19,496 >> Mr. Chairman, if I may, I think for future this group, we definitely want to have IBWC 2221 02:32:19,496 --> 02:32:31,626 as part of our group because they control the Rio Grande, and also maybe USGS 2222 02:32:31,626 --> 02:32:34,796 because they do have [inaudible] work we do and I know [inaudible]. 2223 02:32:34,796 --> 02:32:35,046 >> OK. 2224 02:32:35,306 --> 02:32:41,236 >> I believe we're getting some feedback. 2225 02:32:41,236 --> 02:32:44,086 I think it's possibly from Willy Cupit. 2226 02:32:44,246 --> 02:32:47,136 Could you try muting if you're not speaking? 2227 02:32:47,136 --> 02:32:47,336 >> I'm sorry. 2228 02:32:47,336 --> 02:32:50,246 I just had some problems here. 2229 02:32:50,566 --> 02:32:50,836 Sorry. 2230 02:32:51,616 --> 02:32:51,966 >> Thank you. 2231 02:32:52,026 --> 02:32:55,406 >> Yeah, Commissioner, this is Joe Califa. 2232 02:32:55,406 --> 02:32:56,586 I didn't hear the second one. 2233 02:32:56,586 --> 02:33:02,066 I agree with the -- I don't know if it needs to be IBWC, but it needs to be a river interest. 2234 02:33:02,066 --> 02:33:03,366 But I didn't hear the second one. 2235 02:33:03,366 --> 02:33:06,326 Could you repeat that, Mr. Mia? 2236 02:33:06,326 --> 02:33:07,546 >> USGS. Yeah. 2237 02:33:08,376 --> 02:33:08,946 You are right. 2238 02:33:08,946 --> 02:33:13,836 Mr. Chairman. 2239 02:33:13,926 --> 02:33:18,746 >> Are you suggesting those entities as like nonvoting members? 2240 02:33:19,256 --> 02:33:22,876 >> Yes, Mr. Chairman, like PCQ and some other entities. 2241 02:33:23,446 --> 02:33:23,736 >> OK. 2242 02:33:23,736 --> 02:33:33,206 >> I'd like to discuss the river interest to be a voting member. 2243 02:33:33,206 --> 02:33:34,886 This is Joe Califa. 2244 02:33:39,576 --> 02:33:41,936 >> Mr. Chairman, if you don't -- I'd like to -- 2245 02:33:42,006 --> 02:33:45,686 you know, I think those are both good recommendations. 2246 02:33:46,046 --> 02:33:51,446 I would also like to see if we could include Cameron County in some way, shape, 2247 02:33:51,446 --> 02:33:57,856 or form from the standpoint that they are one of the biggest outfalls. 2248 02:33:57,856 --> 02:34:02,026 Everything that touches the IBWC either goes through Cameron County or Willacy County. 2249 02:34:02,746 --> 02:34:07,746 And as we can consider flood planning, I know that they are the recipient of a lot 2250 02:34:07,746 --> 02:34:10,846 of the waters that come from a lot of our drain ditches. 2251 02:34:11,096 --> 02:34:14,886 And sometimes, even though they don't get rainfall, they get a lot of flooding. 2252 02:34:15,366 --> 02:34:20,376 So I would like to see if we could possibly consider entertaining them joining the group, 2253 02:34:20,376 --> 02:34:24,276 because I think that they have a very large interest in the outfalls 2254 02:34:24,606 --> 02:34:26,416 of everything that goes into this watershed? 2255 02:34:27,256 --> 02:34:30,276 >> Commissioner Fuentes, did you say Cameron County or Willacy County? 2256 02:34:30,276 --> 02:34:31,426 >> I'm sorry, Willacy County sir. 2257 02:34:31,426 --> 02:34:32,566 I apologize. 2258 02:34:32,566 --> 02:34:37,326 Raymondville, all of that pathway that leads to the Laguna Madre either goes 2259 02:34:37,326 --> 02:34:39,186 through your county or through Willacy County. 2260 02:34:39,186 --> 02:34:43,586 So, I would like to see if we could entertain Willacy County being a member of this group. 2261 02:34:45,066 --> 02:34:45,746 >> I agree. 2262 02:34:45,746 --> 02:34:48,966 I'd like to see Willacy County form a part of this. 2263 02:34:48,966 --> 02:34:50,936 A lot of the water ends up at Willacy. 2264 02:34:50,936 --> 02:34:57,486 And any improvements that Willacy has to their drainage system helps out all of Region 15. 2265 02:35:01,396 --> 02:35:05,466 >> Are we including these groups in a certain category, 2266 02:35:05,846 --> 02:35:13,586 or they just nonvoting, or what capacity? 2267 02:35:14,026 --> 02:35:15,596 >> County category. 2268 02:35:16,716 --> 02:35:17,366 >> OK. 2269 02:35:18,126 --> 02:35:25,096 >> I'd also like to see Starr County, you know, they're border County. 2270 02:35:25,176 --> 02:35:30,196 A lot of their outfalls very affected by the Rio Grande and also with Hidalgo County. 2271 02:35:31,046 --> 02:35:36,146 So I think that combination of Willacy County and Starr County would really put a lot 2272 02:35:36,146 --> 02:35:44,236 of representation geographically and otherwise for Region 15. 2273 02:35:44,356 --> 02:35:53,136 >> So that would be a total of -- if we were to add two more going to the proper notice, 2274 02:35:53,516 --> 02:35:56,876 what would be a total of 13 active members. 2275 02:36:05,576 --> 02:36:07,646 Any other interest groups? 2276 02:36:07,646 --> 02:36:12,976 And I think that I'd IBWC and the other group as nonvoting members would be good resource for us. 2277 02:36:22,976 --> 02:36:26,186 And this is a discussion only item, OK, remember. 2278 02:36:30,216 --> 02:36:34,336 So if anyone wishes to -- 2279 02:36:35,036 --> 02:36:36,546 >> Have you -- Excuse me, I'm sorry. 2280 02:36:36,546 --> 02:36:40,096 Can you tell me, James, if what districts -- 2281 02:36:40,186 --> 02:36:43,936 drainage districts are included in the flood districts category? 2282 02:36:43,936 --> 02:36:45,456 Are they one and the same? 2283 02:36:45,826 --> 02:36:50,076 And so I know, I run drainage district but we never consider ourselves flood districts. 2284 02:36:50,656 --> 02:36:55,336 And the reason I ask, Chairman, is if they're not one in the same, 2285 02:36:55,336 --> 02:36:59,596 I'd like to nominate a drainage district to be included as a category 2286 02:36:59,596 --> 02:37:03,406 as well, or a member, a voting member. 2287 02:37:03,406 --> 02:37:12,126 >> Let's say based on the definition in Chapter 361, drainage districts, 2288 02:37:12,396 --> 02:37:16,076 for other groups that have found to meet that definition, if -- 2289 02:37:16,076 --> 02:37:20,936 it really depends on the enabling legislation or how that district was created. 2290 02:37:20,936 --> 02:37:25,466 But if it does meet the definition in 361, then yes, they can be considered -- 2291 02:37:25,466 --> 02:37:35,046 a drainage district can be considered a flood district. 2292 02:37:35,046 --> 02:37:40,276 >> Chairman, I would like to see another drainage district included in. 2293 02:37:40,276 --> 02:37:44,266 I know Hidalgo County's got one drainage district for the entire county. 2294 02:37:44,266 --> 02:37:50,556 But here in Cameron County, and I'm really representing water districts, 2295 02:37:50,616 --> 02:37:55,596 but for flood districts, I only see one person from a Hidalgo County 2296 02:37:55,596 --> 02:37:58,616 and not really anyone specific from Cameron. 2297 02:37:58,616 --> 02:38:03,806 So, I'd like to see another drainage district from Cameron County included in, 2298 02:38:04,646 --> 02:38:09,276 perhaps the Harlingen Drainage District, 2299 02:38:09,276 --> 02:38:12,826 which is Cameron County Drainage District number 5, I believe. 2300 02:38:13,126 --> 02:38:20,016 >> Well, we could say drainage district, and then as we take nominations, 2301 02:38:20,016 --> 02:38:23,146 you would go that route if that's higher of the group. 2302 02:38:26,296 --> 02:38:27,586 >> This is James. 2303 02:38:27,586 --> 02:38:34,206 I just wanted to clarify that for drainage -- for all interest categories, 2304 02:38:34,206 --> 02:38:37,996 whether it'd be drainage group, or river authorities, or counties, et cetera, 2305 02:38:38,476 --> 02:38:41,746 that representative is expected to represent, you know, 2306 02:38:41,746 --> 02:38:44,586 flood districts counties for the region as a whole. 2307 02:38:44,996 --> 02:38:48,866 However, we do recognize that you all may consider -- 2308 02:38:48,866 --> 02:38:52,436 you may feel that additional members are needed or additional positions are needed 2309 02:38:52,436 --> 02:38:54,156 to represent that interest category. 2310 02:38:54,226 --> 02:38:57,276 I just want to point that out for you all's consideration. 2311 02:38:58,326 --> 02:39:01,266 >> And again, I reiterate, this is only for discussion. 2312 02:39:01,486 --> 02:39:04,856 We're not taking any action today on these. 2313 02:39:06,436 --> 02:39:08,116 >> OK. Commissioner, this is Joe Califa. 2314 02:39:08,116 --> 02:39:13,096 And I was -- as a discussion item, my interest is the public. 2315 02:39:13,796 --> 02:39:19,536 I represent -- I'm supposed to be representing all the public here, OK? 2316 02:39:20,136 --> 02:39:23,476 The interest, for instance, for drainage districts, 2317 02:39:23,856 --> 02:39:26,796 there's an individual who is from a drainage district. 2318 02:39:26,796 --> 02:39:28,836 He's supposed to represent all drainage. 2319 02:39:29,456 --> 02:39:29,656 >> Right. 2320 02:39:29,656 --> 02:39:32,866 >> There's a representative for the county. 2321 02:39:32,866 --> 02:39:37,446 He's supposed to represent -- it's an individual membership that's supposed 2322 02:39:37,446 --> 02:39:43,496 to represent all the interests -- all the county interests, not Cameron County, 2323 02:39:43,496 --> 02:39:50,656 but all the way up to whatever, Del Rio or West County in those areas. 2324 02:39:50,946 --> 02:39:53,566 You know, a flood district and a drainage district, 2325 02:39:53,566 --> 02:39:55,836 I don't know if there's a distinction between them. 2326 02:39:55,836 --> 02:39:57,136 In my mind, there's not. 2327 02:39:57,136 --> 02:40:02,956 And so if we have a flood district representative, that individual is supposed 2328 02:40:02,956 --> 02:40:08,596 to represent all flood districts in our region, in our basin. 2329 02:40:09,206 --> 02:40:14,696 So, you know, I don't want to get into where we're representing geographic areas. 2330 02:40:14,836 --> 02:40:19,496 It's an individual representation that we, as individuals, are doing. 2331 02:40:19,806 --> 02:40:23,956 And Commissioner Fuentes, you've mentioned about the -- 2332 02:40:23,956 --> 02:40:31,356 you're a member of this board as an individual, not as a representative of Hidalgo County 2333 02:40:31,356 --> 02:40:35,056 or Hidalgo Country Drainage District number 1. 2334 02:40:35,056 --> 02:40:40,386 If the judge and the other commissioners didn't want you to be 2335 02:40:40,696 --> 02:40:45,036 on this panel, it's not up to them. 2336 02:40:45,036 --> 02:40:49,496 You've been appointed by the Water Development Board. 2337 02:40:49,496 --> 02:40:52,796 So you're not tied into who you work for. 2338 02:40:53,306 --> 02:40:57,336 You're tied into the interest all across basin. 2339 02:40:58,136 --> 02:41:00,346 So that's my comment. 2340 02:41:00,346 --> 02:41:05,386 I know I agree particularly about Willacy County, because I know they take a lot 2341 02:41:05,386 --> 02:41:08,916 of our water, and they suffer quite a bit there. 2342 02:41:08,916 --> 02:41:10,286 I've seen it. 2343 02:41:10,286 --> 02:41:13,086 I would like to have a representative from Willacy County, 2344 02:41:13,466 --> 02:41:17,286 but it's not to be representing the county. 2345 02:41:17,286 --> 02:41:17,906 It'd be -- 2346 02:41:18,016 --> 02:41:18,296 >> Right. 2347 02:41:18,296 --> 02:41:25,296 >> -- an interest that we can identify from that area, because they are impacted so severely. 2348 02:41:25,816 --> 02:41:27,846 So those are my comment. 2349 02:41:28,206 --> 02:41:35,026 >> I think we're saying Willacy County and Starr County as a region of the outfalls 2350 02:41:35,166 --> 02:41:38,106 as to what we're trying to do, you know, 2351 02:41:38,456 --> 02:41:46,486 because those two areas are frequently having major issues with every event that occurs, 2352 02:41:46,486 --> 02:41:48,386 every major rain event that occurs. 2353 02:41:48,886 --> 02:41:53,886 So that's one of the reasons I believe that the members have mentioned those two. 2354 02:41:54,526 --> 02:41:57,876 So, yeah, I think that -- and the item says, you know, 2355 02:41:57,876 --> 02:42:02,576 to ensure adequate representation from the interest in the region. 2356 02:42:03,166 --> 02:42:10,986 And, you know, I know that some of these folks had tried to get on the original 2357 02:42:10,986 --> 02:42:14,886 or had submitted applications, or intended to. 2358 02:42:14,886 --> 02:42:21,266 But whatever this majority of the group feels at a later meeting, 2359 02:42:21,266 --> 02:42:25,496 we'll identify exactly what else we want to have represented on the board 2360 02:42:25,496 --> 02:42:30,366 so that we can have adequate representation of the whole region. 2361 02:42:32,676 --> 02:42:35,116 >> I think it might be appropriate for the, you know, 2362 02:42:35,116 --> 02:42:38,476 Willacy and Starr County as maybe nonvoting numbers. 2363 02:42:38,986 --> 02:42:41,156 Clearly, they have interest in what we're doing. 2364 02:42:41,156 --> 02:42:48,196 And so, I think they should be invited to the meetings but as a nonvoting member. 2365 02:42:48,766 --> 02:42:57,426 And the original content of the group, I imagine that the Water Development Board spent a lot 2366 02:42:57,426 --> 02:42:59,556 of time trying to decide what interest groups. 2367 02:42:59,556 --> 02:43:00,806 It wasn't just random. 2368 02:43:00,806 --> 02:43:07,526 And so, I think they did a pretty good job of trying to profile the areas. 2369 02:43:07,856 --> 02:43:12,146 And so, the major entities, you know, maybe there's something missing, 2370 02:43:12,146 --> 02:43:22,396 but I think the major interest groups are represented at least by one person. 2371 02:43:22,396 --> 02:43:22,896 >> This is Willy. 2372 02:43:22,896 --> 02:43:24,636 I wanted to ask you a question. 2373 02:43:24,636 --> 02:43:30,896 With the IBWC, was that -- I missed the comment on that. 2374 02:43:31,456 --> 02:43:35,796 Is that to include Mexico? 2375 02:43:35,796 --> 02:43:39,646 >> No, IBWC, International Boundary and Water Commission. 2376 02:43:39,896 --> 02:43:46,096 >> OK. Because I just think that since we're on the border, we need to make sure we have, 2377 02:43:46,466 --> 02:43:51,416 I don't know, you know, some kind of -- 2378 02:43:51,416 --> 02:43:55,096 you know, at least acknowledge that we share a border with them 2379 02:43:55,206 --> 02:44:03,426 and that will affect some of this planning process. 2380 02:44:03,426 --> 02:44:09,226 And also Fish and Wildlife Service, you know, is a big landowner in this area. 2381 02:44:09,226 --> 02:44:13,566 And that would be another consideration. 2382 02:44:13,566 --> 02:44:22,516 And then, as well as the island, because of -- since it's disconnected from the mainland, 2383 02:44:23,106 --> 02:44:29,856 they have flood issues there, but they're going to be a lot different than what we're dealing 2384 02:44:29,856 --> 02:44:33,676 with over in the rest of the valley. 2385 02:44:34,646 --> 02:44:37,966 And that's it. 2386 02:44:38,416 --> 02:44:38,646 >> Thank you. 2387 02:44:41,206 --> 02:44:41,846 >> Commissioner. 2388 02:44:41,846 --> 02:44:45,406 Sorry, this is a Joe. 2389 02:44:45,406 --> 02:44:53,176 Just related to the comment that Willy just made. 2390 02:44:53,176 --> 02:45:02,886 I served on the IBWC Citizens Forum, and there's a lot of things that deal with the operations 2391 02:45:02,886 --> 02:45:09,236 of the IBWC and how they handle the river and what waters are coming in. 2392 02:45:09,576 --> 02:45:14,096 You know, we don't have rivers going into the Rio Grande River, but from -- 2393 02:45:14,366 --> 02:45:16,656 they all come from the south, they all come from Mexico. 2394 02:45:16,656 --> 02:45:19,076 And I think a lot of people don't understand that. 2395 02:45:19,466 --> 02:45:23,266 So I think it's very important that we have a river interest, 2396 02:45:23,266 --> 02:45:27,856 and not IBWC because they're not representing ideas IBWC, 2397 02:45:27,856 --> 02:45:34,336 but an individual that understands the river operations of the IBWC 2398 02:45:34,336 --> 02:45:41,746 and the Rio Grande River Basin, but to serve as an individual. 2399 02:45:41,746 --> 02:45:45,526 So I think it's really important to have a river interest. 2400 02:45:45,526 --> 02:45:50,816 As I said, I think it needs to be a voting members, because there's a lot of impact 2401 02:45:50,816 --> 02:45:55,896 on how the river is operated that I think we would help us. 2402 02:45:56,056 --> 02:45:56,826 Thank you. 2403 02:46:00,556 --> 02:46:03,196 >> Chairman Garza, I just wanted to make two notes. 2404 02:46:03,196 --> 02:46:06,756 One is that we do have a hand raised from the member of the public. 2405 02:46:07,076 --> 02:46:07,336 >> OK. 2406 02:46:07,336 --> 02:46:12,006 >> And also I wanted to do a to do a time check to note that we have about 11 minutes remaining 2407 02:46:12,006 --> 02:46:14,626 in our scheduled -- meeting scheduled for today. 2408 02:46:15,276 --> 02:46:20,166 And we still have -- there's two other items on the agenda, a general public comment item 2409 02:46:20,306 --> 02:46:24,766 and an agenda item to discuss consideration of the next date 2410 02:46:24,766 --> 02:46:26,276 and agenda items for the next meeting. 2411 02:46:26,636 --> 02:46:30,936 >> OK. Well, let's go to the public, you know, if there's a raise hand. 2412 02:46:30,936 --> 02:46:32,916 Morgan, can you patch them through, please? 2413 02:46:33,746 --> 02:46:36,066 >> Yes. It's from Rick Herrera. 2414 02:46:37,346 --> 02:46:38,536 I've unmuted you. 2415 02:46:38,536 --> 02:46:39,876 I think you have to -- There you go. 2416 02:46:40,406 --> 02:46:42,136 >> All right, can you all hear me? 2417 02:46:42,356 --> 02:46:42,846 >> Yes, sir. 2418 02:46:43,006 --> 02:46:43,716 >> All right. 2419 02:46:43,716 --> 02:46:44,896 Commissioner Garza, good afternoon. 2420 02:46:44,896 --> 02:46:46,936 Good afternoon, everybody. 2421 02:46:46,936 --> 02:46:49,876 I know, Commissioner, you made a very good point here long ago. 2422 02:46:49,876 --> 02:46:54,876 These are just items for discussion for the time being, but we wanted to throw our name 2423 02:46:54,876 --> 02:46:58,446 in the hat for nonvoting member, at least the Lower Rio Grande Development Council. 2424 02:47:01,636 --> 02:47:02,776 >> Thank you so much. 2425 02:47:03,796 --> 02:47:04,546 >> Thank you. 2426 02:47:04,596 --> 02:47:12,136 We've got projects that we're working that maybe, you know, may come into play with some 2427 02:47:12,136 --> 02:47:13,606 of the activities that happened with this group. 2428 02:47:13,606 --> 02:47:16,876 So we just thought we'd volunteers ourselves at the table there. 2429 02:47:18,196 --> 02:47:18,926 >> Thank you. 2430 02:47:19,346 --> 02:47:19,806 >> Thank you all. 2431 02:47:21,536 --> 02:47:23,236 >> Anyone else, Morgan? 2432 02:47:24,506 --> 02:47:26,546 >> There's no one else with their hand raised apparently? 2433 02:47:26,546 --> 02:47:31,916 >> If not, you know, we will make note of the discussions 2434 02:47:31,916 --> 02:47:33,916 and the suggestions that have been made. 2435 02:47:33,916 --> 02:47:40,636 And this is a discussion only item, so we'll move on to item Agenda 11. 2436 02:47:41,486 --> 02:47:46,506 Are there any individuals who have registered using the online Public Comment Registration 2437 02:47:46,506 --> 02:47:51,956 Form that need to be called upon at this time to provide any comments? 2438 02:47:54,706 --> 02:48:02,526 >> I believe John Byrum with the Nueces Water Authority had previously registered. 2439 02:48:02,756 --> 02:48:06,736 >> Yeah, he provided comment. 2440 02:48:07,696 --> 02:48:09,966 >> I don't see him currently on the line. 2441 02:48:11,416 --> 02:48:13,226 Mr. Byrum, if you're -- 2442 02:48:13,226 --> 02:48:14,266 >> John provided -- 2443 02:48:15,356 --> 02:48:15,966 >> I'm sorry Mr. -- 2444 02:48:15,966 --> 02:48:21,066 >> I believe that -- I believe Mr. Byrum provided some comments during the discussion 2445 02:48:21,066 --> 02:48:22,316 of the agenda item. 2446 02:48:23,136 --> 02:48:23,366 >> Yes. 2447 02:48:23,366 --> 02:48:24,516 >> Yes, sir, Chairman. 2448 02:48:24,636 --> 02:48:26,366 He -- Sorry, Morgan. 2449 02:48:26,366 --> 02:48:31,476 He had indicated he wanted to speak on that agenda item and on this general item as well -- 2450 02:48:31,476 --> 02:48:31,786 >> OK. 2451 02:48:31,786 --> 02:48:33,396 >> -- when he filled out the public comment card. 2452 02:48:33,396 --> 02:48:38,286 >> OK. Well, then, if he's on, let's put him on. 2453 02:48:38,286 --> 02:48:41,166 >> I don't currently see him on the list. 2454 02:48:41,166 --> 02:48:46,686 But if you're here, Mr. Byrum, you can click the Raise Your Hand button and I'll unmute you. 2455 02:48:47,576 --> 02:48:54,506 Additionally, anyone else wishing to make comment can click the Raise Your Hand button, 2456 02:48:55,206 --> 02:48:57,976 and I'll pause for a moment to see if there are any raised hands. 2457 02:49:06,726 --> 02:49:09,656 I'm not seeing any raised hands. 2458 02:49:10,486 --> 02:49:11,306 >> Thank you, Morgan. 2459 02:49:11,306 --> 02:49:17,416 Then we will go ahead and proceed to our last item, which is scheduling the next meeting. 2460 02:49:17,416 --> 02:49:20,866 James, what do you have for us? 2461 02:49:20,866 --> 02:49:21,636 >> Yes, sir. 2462 02:49:21,816 --> 02:49:22,946 That's it right there. 2463 02:49:23,046 --> 02:49:28,006 Just -- This agenda item is for the group to consider and discuss when you all would 2464 02:49:28,006 --> 02:49:31,626 like to plan for your next Regional Flood Planning Group meeting. 2465 02:49:31,816 --> 02:49:37,456 And also if -- a discussion if you all have any questions for me or the staff here on what types 2466 02:49:37,456 --> 02:49:39,556 of items you all would like to include on the next agenda. 2467 02:49:39,556 --> 02:49:45,856 We have a -- We're putting together sort of a menu of selections for you all to consider, 2468 02:49:45,856 --> 02:49:50,936 and we can work with the Chairman on this after the meeting as far as the selection 2469 02:49:50,936 --> 02:49:52,876 of which items you all would like to include. 2470 02:49:53,366 --> 02:49:56,876 But if you all like to discuss anything or have any questions on future items, 2471 02:49:56,876 --> 02:49:59,376 I'm here to answer any questions as well. 2472 02:50:02,496 --> 02:50:04,606 >> Members, any comments? 2473 02:50:04,606 --> 02:50:10,016 In this, regard we know that we definitely want to visit on the membership, 2474 02:50:10,536 --> 02:50:17,966 and possibly including a few other folks on the membership, either nonvoting or voting. 2475 02:50:17,966 --> 02:50:23,226 So we can make sure to include that as one of our agenda items coming up. 2476 02:50:23,776 --> 02:50:34,726 The question would be, how soon, and when do we want to have the next meeting? 2477 02:50:35,396 --> 02:50:42,386 >> Mr. Chairman, if I may, if we can meet maybe second week of December, because after that, 2478 02:50:42,386 --> 02:50:44,426 everybody would be busy with holidays. 2479 02:50:45,006 --> 02:50:47,766 And we certainly don't want to wait until next year. 2480 02:50:48,036 --> 02:50:51,206 So I know everybody's schedule is tight. 2481 02:50:51,526 --> 02:50:53,166 So maybe we can settle the date. 2482 02:50:56,736 --> 02:51:00,086 >> James, from what you've seen in the meetings today, 2483 02:51:00,466 --> 02:51:03,966 what agenda items would we need to address soon? 2484 02:51:03,966 --> 02:51:12,126 >> I will say that you all -- congratulations, you all did accomplish everything 2485 02:51:12,126 --> 02:51:15,046 on today's agenda that we had planned for you all. 2486 02:51:15,046 --> 02:51:20,166 Some outstanding items that we -- that were mentioned today include the selection 2487 02:51:20,166 --> 02:51:23,236 of the additional officers for the group, the vice chair, 2488 02:51:23,236 --> 02:51:25,976 the secretary, and the executive committee. 2489 02:51:34,956 --> 02:51:37,636 >> Could we do that in the first meeting in January? 2490 02:51:37,636 --> 02:51:39,916 I mean, we've got to do it in January. 2491 02:51:40,036 --> 02:51:41,316 Why do it twice? 2492 02:51:42,736 --> 02:51:45,046 >> We can. 2493 02:51:45,196 --> 02:51:52,366 >> I will say that as you all as the bylaws were modified previously, in the meeting, 2494 02:51:52,366 --> 02:51:57,256 I believe you all set that as by the next meeting, that you all would select officers. 2495 02:51:57,436 --> 02:52:03,146 So whenever -- at whatever point that meeting is set, that's what the bylaws currently states. 2496 02:52:03,626 --> 02:52:09,016 As far as having to select additional officers at the start of the new calendar year, 2497 02:52:09,016 --> 02:52:11,466 you all did modify that provision. 2498 02:52:11,466 --> 02:52:15,976 So that does not come into effect until the start -- beginning of 2022. 2499 02:52:16,416 --> 02:52:22,486 So the officers that you all do select next meeting, their term will be 2500 02:52:22,486 --> 02:52:30,216 through the full year of calendar year of 2021. 2501 02:52:30,216 --> 02:52:33,356 >> So I guess, just as a recap, the two items that we would have 2502 02:52:33,356 --> 02:52:36,356 for the next board meeting would be the selection of the executive committee 2503 02:52:36,356 --> 02:52:41,276 and the consideration of the creation of new positions? 2504 02:52:42,796 --> 02:52:48,166 >> There is also the need to I guess potentially fill a vacancy 2505 02:52:48,166 --> 02:52:51,196 for the river authority's vacant position. 2506 02:52:51,856 --> 02:52:57,176 >> Or, alternatively, to make a finding that there is no river authority, right? 2507 02:52:57,176 --> 02:52:57,706 And then -- 2508 02:52:57,946 --> 02:52:59,426 >> Correct. 2509 02:53:01,816 --> 02:53:03,976 >> And I guess, walk us through that process again. 2510 02:53:03,976 --> 02:53:07,106 If the board makes a finding that there isn't a river authority, 2511 02:53:07,666 --> 02:53:09,866 it then goes up to the executive director. 2512 02:53:10,026 --> 02:53:11,056 And then once the executive -- 2513 02:53:11,056 --> 02:53:11,176 >> Yes. 2514 02:53:11,176 --> 02:53:13,716 >> -- accepts it, then it comes back to us? 2515 02:53:14,316 --> 02:53:17,586 >> That is the -- That is what's listed in the rules, yes. 2516 02:53:17,696 --> 02:53:20,936 The -- Once the group here determines that that interest -- 2517 02:53:20,936 --> 02:53:24,946 specific interest category does not exist within you all's flood planning region, 2518 02:53:25,146 --> 02:53:28,466 we all would let our executive administrator know that fact. 2519 02:53:28,826 --> 02:53:34,126 And if he so -- if he agrees at that point, it's -- 2520 02:53:34,126 --> 02:53:37,286 then that interest category would not have to be filled. 2521 02:53:39,596 --> 02:53:45,756 >> My only concern is if we wait till next year to do these things, you know, 2522 02:53:45,756 --> 02:53:51,276 and if we do add some more membership into the group, that means that we're going to wait 2523 02:53:51,966 --> 02:53:56,926 like two months before we bring or we start the announcement process. 2524 02:53:57,276 --> 02:54:00,566 And that would mean that, again, we're going to go into 90 2525 02:54:00,566 --> 02:54:03,606 or 120 days before they would be part of the group. 2526 02:54:03,606 --> 02:54:08,686 And that lag time is too important right now for us, I believe, you know. 2527 02:54:08,686 --> 02:54:14,276 So I don't know if we couldn't have a short meeting to do some of these things we want 2528 02:54:14,276 --> 02:54:19,906 to do, maybe in the next in the next two weeks, like November the 19th, you know, 2529 02:54:20,666 --> 02:54:25,156 just a short meeting with a few agenda items. 2530 02:54:25,156 --> 02:54:30,716 We get together, we move on, and we open it up, and we can go through that process. 2531 02:54:30,716 --> 02:54:33,626 I don't know what anybody else's thoughts are on this. 2532 02:54:35,336 --> 02:54:37,956 >> Mr. Chairman, you're the chairman. 2533 02:54:37,956 --> 02:54:40,136 You call the meeting? 2534 02:54:40,136 --> 02:54:41,846 We have time [inaudible] needed. 2535 02:54:41,846 --> 02:54:46,986 >> I like to build consensus on times and dates, OK, because I know everyone is extremely busy. 2536 02:54:47,506 --> 02:54:54,416 But I'm just concerned about waiting too long and, you know, missing out on time. 2537 02:54:54,476 --> 02:55:03,196 January of 2023 is going to come very quickly. 2538 02:55:03,756 --> 02:55:05,456 >> Whatever you want, Mr. Chairman. 2539 02:55:05,456 --> 02:55:07,986 >> For my own information, this is Joe Hinojosa. 2540 02:55:08,316 --> 02:55:16,576 Posting of the notice for the 14-day window or posting regarding the creation of new positions 2541 02:55:16,576 --> 02:55:19,736 that come subsequent to our next meeting, right? 2542 02:55:19,736 --> 02:55:24,016 We don't do anything before our next meeting, right, regarding that? 2543 02:55:24,166 --> 02:55:30,666 >> I will say, if you all do choose to take up that item at the next meeting, yes, you all -- 2544 02:55:30,666 --> 02:55:34,936 that -- you all will have to give notice 14 days prior to the next meeting. 2545 02:55:34,936 --> 02:55:39,776 So that's something to consider when setting that next meeting, is that you all will need -- 2546 02:55:39,776 --> 02:55:44,716 if you all do want to include the -- an action item for adding additional members, 2547 02:55:44,716 --> 02:55:51,426 you all will have to comply with that 14-day notice requirements, and also any time necessary 2548 02:55:51,426 --> 02:55:53,846 to put that notice together posted. 2549 02:55:54,246 --> 02:55:57,806 >> So we have to do that notice before our next meeting 2550 02:55:57,806 --> 02:56:00,256 if that's the way we want to go right, Mr. -- Right? 2551 02:56:00,496 --> 02:56:00,916 >> Correct. 2552 02:56:00,916 --> 02:56:05,956 If you also -- If you all do want to include an action item for adding new members, correct? 2553 02:56:05,956 --> 02:56:07,316 >> OK. So -- OK. 2554 02:56:07,576 --> 02:56:13,976 We need -- Mr. Chairman, I guess we need to have somebody assigned to actually post that notice 2555 02:56:13,976 --> 02:56:16,236 so we can move forward on that particular item. 2556 02:56:16,906 --> 02:56:24,546 >> Well, we do have the Hidalgo County Drainage District that will be doing that for us. 2557 02:56:24,546 --> 02:56:25,646 >> Very good. 2558 02:56:25,646 --> 02:56:30,146 I want to throw out a date just so that everyone can look at. 2559 02:56:30,146 --> 02:56:31,456 December the 3rd. 2560 02:56:32,686 --> 02:56:32,786 >> OK. 2561 02:56:32,986 --> 02:56:36,106 >> I'm good with that. 2562 02:56:36,106 --> 02:56:40,776 >> And, you know, I don't know about the rest of this group, 2563 02:56:40,776 --> 02:56:42,866 but I'm like an early morning person. 2564 02:56:43,616 --> 02:56:48,756 I mean, I find that when you have a meeting in the morning quickly and get it done, you move on 2565 02:56:48,756 --> 02:56:50,346 and you have the rest of the day to work. 2566 02:56:50,346 --> 02:56:57,686 So I don't know if there are any thoughts about morning afternoons, noons from the group. 2567 02:56:57,686 --> 02:56:59,946 >> I agree with that. 2568 02:57:00,146 --> 02:57:00,436 >> Well -- 2569 02:57:01,356 --> 02:57:06,606 >> And I don't mean 7:00 a.m., OK? 2570 02:57:06,826 --> 02:57:10,096 >> Well, Thursday's are not great for me in the morning because of payroll. 2571 02:57:10,096 --> 02:57:13,846 But, you know, it's not a deal breaker. 2572 02:57:13,846 --> 02:57:15,086 I can maybe work around it. 2573 02:57:15,546 --> 02:57:23,176 >> OK. Anybody else have any issues with a 8:30 meeting on December the 3rd? 2574 02:57:24,056 --> 02:57:31,866 We got to, you know, have a day and -- No? 2575 02:57:31,866 --> 02:57:32,606 I hear none. 2576 02:57:32,606 --> 02:57:39,636 So, we will proceed with putting together a meeting for December the 3rd at 8:30 a.m. 2577 02:57:39,636 --> 02:57:46,696 And we'll make sure it complies with all the proper notice, and move on that, OK? 2578 02:57:46,696 --> 02:57:49,356 Its 4:01, James. 2579 02:57:49,556 --> 02:57:50,326 I'm sorry, we [inaudible]. 2580 02:57:50,326 --> 02:57:51,546 >> Oh, no, thank you. 2581 02:57:51,546 --> 02:57:52,156 Great job. 2582 02:57:52,156 --> 02:57:59,406 >> Any other closing comments, Kathleen? 2583 02:57:59,406 --> 02:58:00,176 I see you smiling. 2584 02:58:00,176 --> 02:58:05,536 >> It's my first time being here, and you all did a great job. 2585 02:58:05,536 --> 02:58:09,126 And so excited to hear the engagement and the work effort 2586 02:58:09,126 --> 02:58:11,716 from everybody and that you move more quickly. 2587 02:58:12,626 --> 02:58:13,326 >> Thank you. 2588 02:58:13,326 --> 02:58:17,926 >> And Chairman Garza, I just want to let you know, 2589 02:58:17,926 --> 02:58:20,826 our staff has been taking meeting minutes for today's meeting. 2590 02:58:20,826 --> 02:58:22,746 And we will provide those to you. 2591 02:58:22,746 --> 02:58:26,186 So after your approval, they can be disseminated. 2592 02:58:26,186 --> 02:58:31,766 And we will also work with you on putting together the agenda for next meeting. 2593 02:58:32,286 --> 02:58:32,566 >> OK. 2594 02:58:32,686 --> 02:58:37,866 >> So we'll be reaching out to you to help out with anything, any help that you may need. 2595 02:58:38,236 --> 02:58:39,706 >> We appreciate that very much. 2596 02:58:39,706 --> 02:58:42,146 I need your help, OK. 2597 02:58:42,296 --> 02:58:44,816 If not, do we have a motion to adjourn this meeting? 2598 02:58:47,016 --> 02:58:47,456 >> So moved. 2599 02:58:47,456 --> 02:58:49,576 >> I make a motion to do so. 2600 02:58:49,706 --> 02:58:53,616 >> It's been moved by Sonia Lambert, second by Joe Hinojosa. 2601 02:58:54,136 --> 02:58:54,966 Favor say aye. 2602 02:58:55,606 --> 02:58:55,886 >> [Simultaneously] Aye. 2603 02:58:56,916 --> 02:58:58,046 >> All those [inaudible]. 2604 02:58:58,206 --> 02:58:59,606 Motion carries. 2605 02:58:59,606 --> 02:59:03,726 Thank you to the Water Development Board folks for facilitating us, 2606 02:59:03,916 --> 02:59:06,376 put enough with us, listening to us, and helping us. 2607 02:59:06,806 --> 02:59:08,586 We look forward to our next meeting. 2608 02:59:08,806 --> 02:59:09,916 OK? Take care. 2609 02:59:09,916 --> 02:59:11,106 >> Thank you, Commissioner. 2610 02:59:11,106 --> 02:59:12,066 It's been a pleasure. 2611 02:59:12,636 --> 02:59:13,816 >> Thank you to you all. 2612 02:59:13,816 --> 02:59:15,076 >> Thank you, everybody. 2613 02:59:16,056 --> 02:59:16,626 >> Thank you all. 2614 02:59:17,316 --> 02:59:17,826 >> Thank you. 2615 02:59:17,826 --> 02:59:18,276 Bye, everyone. 2616 02:59:18,696 --> 02:59:19,186 >> Bye. 2617 02:59:19,476 --> 02:59:20,776 >> Thank you.