Seadrift declares local state of disaster

On Jan. 16 at approximately 6 p.m., the city of Seadrift issued a declaration of local state of disaster due to a public health emergency because of a lack of water pressure. In addition to the notice posted announcing the state of disaster, Seadrift Mayor Pro-Tem Tracey Johnson gave an explanation on the declaration via Facebook.

The declaration of local state of disaster follows the failure of both water pumps at the city’s water treatment plant. According to the declaration, the city is currently now only operating on one spare jockey pump with limited capacity. Johnson also asked for the public to remain calm.

“Today, Jan. 16, 2025, I declared a local state of disaster. This is not a reason to panic, this will open up avenues for additional help. I did not come to this decision lightly however due to our current water situation; I felt it necessary for the safety of our citizens. Through the help of Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) we are making a plea to Governor Greg Abbott,” Johnson said. “In doing this we are able to work together with our contractor Rene & employees, Mr. Mercer, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and TDEM to get us the help and equipment we desperately need to ensure water safety. “

According to Johnson, the TCEQ highly suggested the city to issue the citywide notice. However, Johnson said that she chose to do so in order to be proactive in protecting the city’s citizens. Ongoing testing will continue while the boil water notice is in effect and as the city attempts to expedite the repair or purchase of its water treatment plant’s pumps.

“I have been working with a company on assessing the pump that we just removed to see if it was repairable. Sadly, it was not; however they are making us a priority and assisting us in obtaining the pumps needed,” Johnson said. “They have expedited it, and the current estimated timeframe is four to seven days. We are hopeful with the pumps being installed, this will help us to maintain the correct pressure required by TCEQ by flushing the lines and getting fire hydrants back in proper working order.”

This follows a report covering the lack of water pressure during the city’s previous city council meeting on Jan. 14. Seadrift City Council is currently working with state and local resources and advises citizens to continue to observe the boil water notice and cooperate with officials for the investigation, inspection and taking of samples to resolve this matter.

“We are also exploring the options available to us in order to bring in drinking water. I will let everyone know any updates as I get them in,” Johnson said. “Please bear with us during this time and know that your safety is our number one concern.”