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Residents raise flooding concerns as council highlights new food and clothing programs
Summary
A Baker resident asked whether budget actions would address recent flooding; staff said the budget did not include homeowner flood reimbursements. Council members announced a new child food-box program, a Baker Fresh Market and a free clothing closet and encouraged residents to document flood damage at damage.la.gov for FEMA consideration.
A resident who identified herself as Barbara King spoke during public comment at the June 23 City of Baker meeting, saying her home had taken in flood water and asking whether the council’s special-revenue budget would help homeowners recoup losses.
City staff said the ordinance before the council did not include a flood-reimbursement program, although some street-fund spending can fund drainage projects. Staff directed the resident to follow up with the mayor’s office or the city clerk to pursue a specific remedy.
Separately, Councilwoman Desiree Collins (District 3) used the announcements portion of the meeting to promote community food and clothing programs. She reminded residents about an upcoming election and said the Baker Fresh Market will be located at Pettit and Plank Road. Collins announced a new “Nourish to Flourish” food-box giveaway targeted to Baker children, with proof-of-residency checks; she also said New Beginnings Baptist Fellowship will host a free clothing closet and monthly hot meals.
Council members and staff also discussed ongoing ditch and canal cleanups after several reports of blocked drains and localized yard flooding; the council urged residents to clear debris from ditches where they are responsible and noted public-works crews are performing cleanups. A speaker at the meeting advised residents with property damage to upload photos and addresses to damage.la.gov to help support potential FEMA funding applications.
Why it matters Residents reported property damage from recent storms and sought clarity on whether council budget actions included relief; staff responses and the council’s announcements guide residents to next steps: follow up with city staff for case-specific assistance, and document damage via the state portal.
What’s next Council staff said they would follow up with residents who reported damage; Collins said her Nourish to Flourish program will begin distribution and may expand to scheduled free meals in July.
Provenance Topic introduced: SEG 938 Topic last discussed: SEG 1669
