AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- A new report released Friday by the City of Austin's Winter Storm Review Task Force highlights a number of failings in terms of communications and transparency on the part of city leaders and the city's overall response to February's deadly winter storm.
The task force, which was formed in March, is made up of 11 members from different city commissions, aimed at representing different demographic groups. The task force held five public feedback sessions between April and June, and focused on communications and transparency issues as well as infrastructure issues.
The report highlights a failure on the part of the city in using social media and television as its primary means of communication, at least based on community feedback. "Most people had no ability to charge devices or connect to the internet in order to connect on social media," the report reads. "Facebook meetings held by city departments were not helpful, as participants could not ask or hear questions. Televised reports were problematic for the same reason."
Inconsistency and incorrect information coming from city leadership was also highlighted in the report, calling the resulting lack of trust a "problem that has long-term consequences even outside of an emergency event." The report highlights several interviews given by Austin Mayor Steve Adler from his "well-lit" home, as well as a news conference including City Manager Spencer Cronk in a short-sleeve polo shirt.
"It was jarring for citizens to see broadcasts from city leaders in well-lit, heated environments when they were without power and water in their homes, or to see unoccupied downtown offices and parking garages lit up when residential neighborhoods were dark and cold," said the report.
The task force report also identified challenges with distributing food, water, and essential supplies, lack of equipment to clear roads and keep emergency vehicles moving safely, and the availability of emergency shelters.
The report went on to highlight the efforts of local non-profits and other organizations that stepped up to provide critical services and supplies to those in need.
The task force is expected to brief the City Council on August 27 on its findings; the City Auditor's office is also expected to report to council on the city's response to the storm.