Status of Harris County: Judge Emmett gives annual speech

HOUSTON – Harris County Judge Ed Emmett discussed the state of the county in his annual address Thursday afternoon.

The event took place at NRG Center at noon.

Emmett kept an optimistic tone in front of the 1,000 attendees by talking about the resiliency of the residents in the wake of recent natural disasters.

He also said he was pleased that residents seem more determined to fight weather challenges in the future.

VIDEO: Harris County Judge Ed Emmett speaks at State of the County on Sept. 13, 2018

"It was an amazing sight to behold," Emmett said. "At every meeting, county residents of all types met face-to-face with county employees, many of whom spend most of their time behind desks. Suddenly, a human element came into focus instead of abstract numbers and plans. County employees were energized, and the public believed and trusted them. On Aug. 25th, the one-year anniversary of Harvey, Harris County voters approved the flood mitigation bond with 86 percent voting yes. On that day, Harris County became truly Harris County Strong."

Emmett said he believes the recent floods have strengthened the bond between county residents and county employees and officials.

"So, on the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Ike, a storm we thought was one for the ages, Harris County has now endured a worse storm, but we have emerged with unshakeable partnerships and a belief in each other that we can, and must, carry forward into all of our endeavors," Emmett said. "Harris County is not just strong. Harris County is together and ready to face the future."

Read what the judge said in his address last year.