Kendall County flood cleanup efforts set to begin

Authorities in Kendall County say they are moving into the cleanup stage – a process expected to take eight to ten weeks.  Kendall County Judge Shane Stolarczyk said those efforts will begin Wednesday after receiving the green light from the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM).  It also marks the end of search and recovery efforts for flood victims in Kendall County, where nine bodies have been found since July Fourth.

Kendall County authorities said those victims were swept into Kendall County “from upstream communities.”  While the victims have not been officially identified, they were most likely people overwhelmed by the floods in Kerr County who were carried into neighboring Kendall.  Two people remain unaccounted for in Kerr County, but officials said there is no indication the bodies are in Kendall County.

Officials said state contractors cleaning up debris will be working seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Kendall County has been segmented into five sections, with crews starting in the westernmost area before continuing eastward.  Priority will be given to cleaning up the county right of way, followed by debris on private property as feasible.  Debris in and along the River channels will also be included.

Only areas with the high-water mark of the July Fourth floods will be handled by the state contractors.  Property owners outside of that boundary are encouraged to move flood debris into the county right of way or curbside themselves, where it will be picked up for free.  Debris should be out of the way of roads, fire hydrants, trees and utility poles.

Those who live in more rural areas should stack their debris piles between fence lines and roads while keeping drainage areas clear of obstacles.  Those unable to move debris themselves will be able to have contracted crews access their land for free cleanup at a later date.  That “right of entry” process is still being worked out.

A hotline for cleanup updates and questions will be active at 8 a.m. Wednesday.  That number is 830-217-2890.  Residents are encouraged to call for the latest on cleanup timelines.