The recent floods that swept through Texas have left behind more than just water damage—they’ve left families shattered, homes destroyed, and entire communities in limbo. The pain is raw, the devastation widespread, and the path to recovery uncertain for many.
As someone who has worked on the front lines of disaster recovery—rebuilding homes after Hurricane Harvey—I’ve seen this heartbreak up close. I’ve stood in the ruins of once-thriving neighborhoods, helping families pick up the pieces. I served as a subcontractor to FEMA Harvey recovery through the Texas Land Commissioner’s Office, helping to rebuild homes devastated by the storm. And as a Houston resident who once called Austin home, this tragedy hits close to my heart.
In my role as Head of Owth and Mophet, I feel a deep responsibility to not only respond to this crisis but to help prevent the next one. That’s why I’m urging Texas state officials and FEMA to consider a proven, practical solution: rebuilding homes in flood-prone areas on elevated piers, modeled after the successful elevation strategies used in Galveston.
Galveston’s approach—supported by FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA)—has shown that elevating homes above base flood elevation significantly reduces the risk of future flood damage. These aren’t just construction techniques; they’re investments in resilience, safety, and peace of mind.
We at Owth and Mophet are ready to collaborate with the state, FEMA, and local governments to bring this vision to life. We believe that rebuilding smarter—by building higher—can transform vulnerable communities into models of preparedness and strength.
Let’s not wait for the next storm to remind us of what we could have done. Let’s act now, together, to rebuild Texas stronger than ever.
Media Contact
Robert Stacks
Director of Communications
Owth & Mophet Construction
📧 contact@owthmophet.com
🌐 www.owthmophet.com
