Houston’s City Council meetings have been bustling with activity and controversy as the local government navigates significant decisions affecting the community. Since June 2020, journalist Emily Hynds has covered these meetings, offering insights into the happenings at city hall in her monthly Houstonia column.
This month’s key developments include Mayor Whitmire’s reversal on tax rate commitments, the controversial removal of Montrose’s rainbow crosswalk, and ongoing discussions surrounding the expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB).
Mayor Whitmire has stirred discontent among council members with his decision to maintain the city’s current tax rate, despite initial proposals for an increase. According to city regulations, Houston faces property tax revenue caps that limit how much it can collect. While the mayor argued for continued bureaucratic reform instead of tax hikes, the city’s budget projected a deficit that would require tapping into $70 million from the fund balance.
Councilmember Sallie Alcorn, chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, expressed her concerns about the long-term repercussions of Whitmire’s choice, citing historical leaders’ unfulfilled promises to address budgetary issues. Alcorn conveyed her frustration at the lack of substantive moves towards raising the tax rate during her tenure, stating:
“I’ve grown a little weary because it’s been three mayors now that have said similar things, and nobody’s really done anything.”
Though Whitmire continued to advocate for reducing city expenditures, the council voted against the tax increase. Consequently, the budget will require an additional $53 million from reserves to address operational costs this year, raising questions about the city’s ability to manage its finances effectively.
In a further twist, the emblematic rainbow crosswalk in Montrose has faced removal, a decision spurred by pressures from state leadership. Governor Greg Abbott and U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, reportedly threatened to withdraw federal funding essential for the city’s programs unless the crosswalk was dismantled.
At the council meeting on October 15, Councilmember Abbie Kamin contested the governor’s authority over city matters, underscoring that the vibrant crosswalk served as a vital safety feature for pedestrians. She called for a legal challenge against what she described as “inappropriate state overreach into local control.”
Kamin remarked that:
“The state does not have a right to say we cannot do something on our own property… We should be legally challenging that.”
Despite the outcry, Mayor Whitmire acknowledged the uphill battle and proceeded to remove the crosswalk under the cover of night on October 19. This move led to arrests of four individuals protesting the action, igniting further debate about the decision’s implications for the LGBTQ+ community and pedestrian safety. At the subsequent council meeting, Kamin raised concerns regarding the lack of communication with the Houston Police Department’s LGBTQ+ liaison during the protest, questioning how the situation could have escalated to arrests.
Meanwhile, the GRB expansion project and related Polk Street closures continue to pave the way for significant changes in Houston’s Downtown area. The state of Texas has prioritized this development alongside major interstate remakes, which will stretch over the next 15 years. Councilmembers are currently debating the merits of the project, which some claim aids in pedestrian and cyclist access to the city center.
Michael Heckman, CEO of Houston First Corporation, defended the project during the October council meeting amid concerns voiced by resident advocacy groups, stating that the street’s changes would ultimately benefit the majority of the population. Councilmember Carolyn Evans-Shabazz took a reserved stance, suggesting she would withhold her vote for future engagement opportunities.
Despite unclear negotiations hinted at by the mayor concerning the removal of bike lanes near Texas Southern University, some council members remain concerned about pedestrian access and safety. The council ultimately voted to convey portions of Polk Street to Houston First, but further discussions and votes will be required as the community seeks to influence the outcome of the expansion and neighborhood changes.
As the city grapples with these pressing issues, Houston voters are reminded that Election Day approaches on November 4. Early voting is currently underway, offering citizens the opportunity to participate in local governance and decision-making.
On the ballot this year is the election for the vacant Congressional District 18 seat, previously held by Sylvester Turner who passed away in March. Voters will also face decisions regarding several state propositions, trustee positions for local districts, and the highly contested City Council At-Large 4 seat, which is up for grabs following Councilmember Leticia Plummer’s resignation as she runs for Harris County judge.
Voter engagement is critical during this election cycle, especially in light of the ongoing tax discussions and city initiatives. With incumbents often having an advantage during elections, areas of particular interest to Houston citizens include several candidates vying for Plummer’s vacant council seat.
With city council meetings occurring nearly every week at 901 Bagby Street or online via HTV, residents are encouraged to stay informed about updates and participate actively in shaping the future of their community. The vibrant political landscape continues to evolve, demanding attention and advocacy from Houston’s diverse populations as they confront issues of governance, identity, and urban development.
image source from：houstoniamag
