Top 5- Reduce Flood Risk

I am passionate about reducing flood risk because my family was affected by flooding in 2018. I understand firsthand the devastation that flooding can cause and the importance of making sure we prevent catastrophic flood damages for our families and our future. As a Conway Council candidate, I will work to ensure that our city is protected from flooding. Here are the top 5 ways I will ensure we are working to reduce flood risk if elected to Conway City Council:

1. I will encourage and support natural flood management techniques like planting trees, restoring wetlands, and creating buffer zones along rivers and wetlands can help slow down floodwaters and reduce their impact.

2. I will enhance regulations that help reduce flood risk by restricting development in areas prone to flooding and requiring new construction to meet certain standards such as elevating structures above the floodplain.

3. I will support proper management of stormwater runoff to reduce the amount of water that enters rivers and streams and contributes to flooding. Techniques like green infrastructure, low-impact development, and detention basins can help manage stormwater effectively.

4. I will help secure investments to maintain flood defenses such as canals, floodplain conservation and nature-based retention to help protect communities from flooding.

5. I will help support and educate the public about flood risks and how to prepare for floods and reduce the impact of floods. This includes developing emergency plans, having flood insurance, reducing flood insurance premiums and making insurance more affordable and knowing how to safely evacuate if necessary.

Thank you for your consideration for Conway city council and please let me know what you think by filling out the form on my website. Don’t forget to vote June 13th and if these values and goals resonate with you I hope you’ll vote for me.

Leading with Love and Loyalty,

April O’Leary

PS: You can also check out my web page called “work” to learn more about my extensive experience working to reduce flood risk for residents and businesses in Horry County.