Texas Lawmakers Slam Local Leaders Over Failures in Kerr County Flood Response

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick harshly criticized Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly for his absence during the initial hours of the July 4 flood that resulted in over 100 fatalities. During a Senate hearing, Patrick emphasized that Kelly should have been on-site, noting the hard work of emergency responders while he prepared for a family gathering at his Lake Travis home. Kelly acknowledged he was not present when emergency calls began, but he claimed he reacted quickly.

However, lawmakers questioned his credibility as testimony indicated that the first urgent 911 call for evacuation came at 3:34 a. m. , despite flood alerts issued earlier in the morning. Reports emerged of a delayed emergency response, with key personnel like Sheriff Larry Leitha and the county's emergency coordinator unavailable when the flood occurred. Rep.

Ann Johnson highlighted the absence of essential decision-makers as "very disturbing," stressing the need for backup leadership procedures during crises. Kelly, responsible for issuing evacuation orders under Texas law, faced criticism for acting "too late. " Following the hearing, he dismissed the criticism, stating that the press had been offensive and intrusive.