Harris County commissioners appoint new flood control director

Harris County commissioners unanimously approved appointing Marcus Stuckett, a former engineer with the Harris County Flood Control District, to the role of executive director for the agency.

The breakdown

In a June 25 business court meeting, Stuckett was nominated by Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey to fill the role following the resignation of Tina Petersen on June 11.

“I am honored by the confidence placed in me by Commissioners Court and Administrator [Erica Lee] Carter," Stuckett said. "The Harris County Flood Control District has a long history of protecting residents from flooding through innovative engineering, strong partnerships, and responsible stewardship of public resources. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated employees, community partners and elected officials to continue delivering projects that reduce flood risk and improve quality of life for Harris County residents."

Stuckett worked for the flood control district from 2015-2022, becoming a certified floodplain administrator and director of engineering for the district. Stuckett left the HCFCD to work as an associate vice president at Pape-Dawson Engineers.

"Mr. Stuckett has the technical expertise, understanding of Harris County priorities and relationships needed to guide one of the nation's premier flood control agencies," County Administrator Erica Lee Carter said. "His deep understanding of Harris County's watersheds, infrastructure and communities makes him qualified to lead the flood control district as we continue advancing projects that improve public safety, strengthen our infrastructure and build long-term resilience."

What they're saying

Several members of the court congratulated Stuckett on his appointment, which was decided following a brief deliberation in executive session.

• “Marcus Stuckett brings over 23 years of regional drainage experience and institutional knowledge necessary to lead the Harris County Flood Control District," Ramsey said in a statement following the announcement. "Most importantly, he understands how to deliver projects on time and within budget. He is exactly the type of leader HCFCD needs to get critical flood mitigation projects moving and protect taxpayer investments.”
• “We’re making a bet that a change in Flood Control leadership will result in clearer communication with both Commissioners Court and the residents, so this is the best path forward for us to be able to get these projects back on track. I look forward to working with Director Stuckett to get these projects done as soon as possible for the community,” County Judge Lina Hidalgo said.
• "With over 20 years of experience delivering large flood control projects across the region, he is prepared to lead," Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones said. "Nothing is more important than keeping our families safe from flooding, and I look forward to working with Stuckett and our dedicated team to do just that."

"Members of court who have abandoned the process of engaging in a nationwide search have put Mr. Stuckett in a difficult situation with looming GLO deadlines. Nonetheless, there’s too much at risk not to do all that I can to ensure Mr. Stuckett’s success,” Garcia said.