 After their first success, the Dames focused on another community problem of frequent flooding; in 1970, Bendl was a major force in creating the community's Water Management Committee.In 1972, Bendl won the Democratic nomination to run as a Louisville alderman and was elected by her district as one of few women aldermen ever elected in the city.She continued to organize her grassroots volunteer force, advocated for charitable causes, continued to work on water drainage issues, and was known for her stylish hats.