Region 9 LWI coordinator reports 29 basin projects; advisers urge better progress metrics

Garvin Pittman, the Water Institute representative and ARBC Region 9 coordinator, reported at the Jan. 13 meeting that the basin currently has 29 flood-risk-reduction projects: six in construction, 18 in design and five in application. Pittman highlighted three recent drawdowns — Jones Creek (Jones Vaughn Creek Bridge), Taylor Bayou (regional improvements in Walker) and a Livingston Parish flood-risk reduction project — and outlined next steps on permitting, 60% design deliverables and geotechnical work.

Pittman presented a proposal for nonstructural implementation support the Water Institute could provide, including use and storage planning, warning systems, assistance with the FEMA Community Rating System (CRS), and project and grant-management training; he noted some budget remains in the regional-capacity-building grant to begin such work.

Commissioners asked for clearer reporting because OCD (Office of Community Development) packet figures can show 0% drawdowns while substantial project activity is underway. Commissioner Savo said Ascension’s Conway Bayou shows 0% expenditures in the packet despite Phase 1 deliverables having been submitted more than a year ago; Pittman and Paul Sawyer explained the programs are reimbursable and invoices must be processed before funds are shown as drawn down. Pittman said staff can work with OCD and applicants to break logjams and provide more meaningful progress metrics.

The commission discussed whether staff or advisers should attend project meetings to increase visibility and support implementation. No formal action was taken; staff were encouraged to pursue closer coordination and consider prioritizing nonstructural regional support with the executive committee.