While some areas of our community experienced flooding over the weekend, the swift and coordinated efforts of our city officials and workers prevented what could have been a far more devastating situation.
Mother Nature occasionally reminds us of her awesome power, sending challenges that no system, no matter how well-designed, can fully withstand. The recent deluge that brought several inches of rain in a short period would have overwhelmed infrastructure in any modern city. Yet Monroe stood resilient, with most of our drainage systems performing admirably under exceptional stress.
Mayor Friday Ellis, and the Monroe City Council, deserve recognition for their leadership during this crisis. They put the money in place to buy the pumps, machinery and essentials to respond to such events. Their attention to detail is noted.
From the moment the severity of the rainfall became apparent, city teams mobilized resources efficiently, prioritizing the safety of residents while deploying personnel where they were most needed.
The city gave clear communication and helped reassure all of us during that uncertain time. Some places looked like rivers, and others resembled small bayous, but it wasn’t because of a lack of preparation.
Our police and fire departments, and public works staff worked tirelessly, responding to emergencies, directing traffic away from dangerous areas, and helping those stranded by rising waters. These first responders put themselves in harm’s way to ensure our community remained safe, working extended shifts under difficult conditions without complaint.
Perhaps most impressive was the dedication shown by our public works crews, who labored late into the night in torrential downpours to clear clogged drainage ways, and mitigate flooding where possible.
They were all unsung heroes.
Sunday morning, most of our streets were cleared, the water was gone, and the danger had passed.
The work of those who labored to keep us safe deserves our praise.
Well done.
