KERRVILLE, Texas — Nearly six months after a July 4 flood affected parts of Kerr County, residents and business owners say recovery is moving slowly despite $100 million raised by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country.
The foundation reports it has distributed or promised about $58 million, with allocations covering housing, churches, businesses, first responders, mental health services, schools, and community programs. Roughly $42 million remains to be distributed.
Families like Ken and Cindy Collier say they still lack sufficient funds to return to their homes. Local business owners have also raised concerns about the pace of distribution. Steve Edelstein, whose plaza employed over 20 people, said he has only received half of the $400,000 needed to reopen.
Jayne Zirkel, chief marketing officer for the foundation, said funds are distributed weekly and advisory councils meet biweekly to review proposals and changing needs. She acknowledged that recovery takes longer than desired.
The foundation also plans to support river recovery, including the Guadalupe River, which sustained damage affecting local businesses and jobs tied to outdoor recreation.