City of Houston
Recent News About City of Houston
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Houston First Board welcomes new members: A step towards diversity and expertise
Mayor John Whitmire and Houston City Council members have nominated and approved several new appointees for the Houston First Board of Directors. Since its inception in 2011, Houston First has played a pivotal role in developing the city's destination brand strategy, promoting Houston globally, boosting tourism and convention business, operating various facilities, producing community events, and collaborating with commercial and industry partners. The newly appointed board members are expected to contribute their unique perspectives and experiences to further these initiatives.
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Mayor Whitmire Assesses Weather Conditions and Community Concerns in Kingwood
On May 4, 2024, Mayor John Whitmire of Houston, accompanied by Police Chief Troy Finner, conducted an aerial tour of Kingwood to assess the impact of rising water on specific neighborhoods in the area. The tour, provided by the Houston Police Department Air Support Unit, aimed to provide the mayor with a comprehensive view of the damage and the needs of the residents."Houston residents benefit when all levels of government work together," emphasized Mayor Whitmire during the assessment. "Together, we will get through these challenges. Let’s go to work!"The mayor...
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Mayor Whitmire Names New Department of Neighborhoods Director
Houston City Council has confirmed Herbert Sims as the new Director of the Department of Neighborhoods (DON), as appointed by Mayor John Whitmire. Sims, who has been serving as the interim director since February, brings over two decades of experience working for the city and has excelled in various leadership and management roles.Mayor Whitmire praised Sims, stating, "Mr. Sims illustrates the value of our municipal employees. He came up through the ranks and has demonstrated his ability to get things done to help improve the quality of our neighborhoods. He is one of the...
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City of Houston Partners with Apache Corporation to Plant 2,500 Trees for Earth Day HTX 2024
The City of Houston is celebrating Earth Day 2024 with a large-scale tree planting event, thanks to a partnership with Apache Corporation. According to the Mayor's Office, "Apache supports the City’s sustainability efforts through charitable donations for events such as the 2024 Tour de Houston bike ride, and this historic, first-ever, City of Houston Earth Day mass tree-planting event."City officials, Apache employees, and community volunteers will gather at Watonga Park on Monday, April 22, 2024, to plant 2,500 trees to commemorate Earth Day. Mayor John Whitmire and...
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From Houston Republic
Study ranks Houston #4 worst city in America for marijuana use
Houston, Texas is ranked the 4th worst “weed city” in America, according to a new report released by Real Estate Witch and cannabis shopping site, Leafly.
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New METRO Board Members Approved by Houston Mayor John Whitmire
The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO Houston) Board of Directors has welcomed its newest members appointed by Mayor John Whitmire and approved by vote during a Houston City Council meeting. The Board of Directors, which serves as the governing body of METRO, aims to deliver a public transportation system that provides safe, clean, reliable, and accessible mobility options throughout the Houston region.Mayor Whitmire's appointments have led to a historic moment with a significant number of women serving on the board at one time. This includes the...
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Houston Public Library System Announces Leadership Change
The City of Houston announced a significant leadership change within the Houston Public Library System (HPL) as Cynthia Wilson was appointed as the interim Executive Director. Mayor John Whitmire expressed his gratitude towards Wilson for taking on the role and outlined her responsibilities, stating, "I have asked her to immediately go to work on improving communications, management, employee morale, and operations throughout HPL."Cynthia Wilson, a former educator and executive leader in workplace performance management, brings a wealth of experience to her new position....
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City Hall Update for March 18-22, 2024
Mayor Whitmire welcomed President Joe Biden to Houston, stating, "It was an honor to welcome President Biden to Houston, a city full of great people and endless opportunities. My administration is committed to ongoing collaboration with the federal government to ensure Houston's prosperity thrives."Regarding the historic $650 million agreement reached between the City of Houston and the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, Mayor Whitmire emphasized, "A world-class city like Houston deserves a well-funded fire department to attract and retain talented...
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Mayor Whitmire Appoints Veteran Leader as New Economic Development Officer
Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Gwendolyn Tillotson-Bell as the City of Houston's Chief Economic Development Officer. Tillotson-Bell, who has been working as the Deputy Director of the Mayor's Office of Economic Development for the past 17 years, will take over from Andy Icken, who recently retired. In her new role, Tillotson-Bell will be responsible for overseeing the administration and relationship management of various economic development initiatives in Houston, including Tax Increment Investment Zones (TIRZs), Industrial Development Agreements, Management...
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Houston City Council Passes Tax Exemption for Child-Care Facilities
Houston City Council has recently passed an amendment to provide a tax exemption for qualifying child-care facilities effective from the 2024 tax year. This decision comes after the successful passing of Proposition 2 in November 2023, which granted cities and counties the authority to offer property tax exemptions for child-care facilities. The new amendment, known as Section 44-30, enables eligible child-care facilities to claim either a partial or complete exemption from their property taxes.Child-care providers seeking to benefit from this tax exemption must meet...
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Tour de Houston Presented by Apache Corporation Adopts New Start and Finish at Discovery Green
Mayor John Whitmire expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Tour de Houston Presented by Apache Corporation, stating, “Tour de Houston is important to our community, and I am excited we are hosting the event this year in partnership with Houston First."Apache CEO John J. Christmann IV highlighted the significance of the event, saying, “Apache is honored to partner with the City of Houston to support this annual tradition."The 17th annual ride, scheduled for Sunday, April 7th, will feature a new start and finish at Discovery Green and the new Avenida Plaza. Mayor...
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Financial Terms of Historic Houston Firefighter Agreement Announced
Mayor John Whitmire expressed his satisfaction with the historic $650 million settlement reached with the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, stating, "I told the voters I would honor their decision to put public safety first and treat our brave paramedics and firefighters in the fair and equitable manner they deserve. I am proud to deliver on that promise."HPFFA President Patrick M. "Marty" Lancton also praised the agreement, calling it unprecedented, saying, "This agreement is like none other we have ever seen, or perhaps will ever see and the best for the...
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Mayor Whitmire Announces Members of Independent Review Committee
In an effort to ensure transparency and prioritize the victims of reported crimes, Mayor John Whitmire of Houston has appointed a group of individuals to form the Independent Review Committee. The committee's main focus will be to assess the Houston Police Department's handling and resolution of suspended incident reports dating back to 2016.Mayor Whitmire emphasized the diverse expertise of the committee members, stating, "The Independent Review Committee members represent a cross-section of the experience, credibility, and representation of individuals across the City...
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Mayor Whitmire Celebrates International Women's Day 2024 and Announces City Initiatives
Mayor Whitmire of Houston celebrated International Women's Day 2024 with a message of appreciation for women's contributions in various spheres. He emphasized the theme of "Inspire Inclusion" and highlighted the importance of diversity and transparency in city government. Mayor Whitmire acknowledged the significance of Women's History Month and commended the nine female council members for their leadership roles within the city.Regarding city initiatives, Mayor Whitmire announced a partnership with METRO to repair pavement and improve bus stops on Westheimer Road starting...
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City of Houston and METRO Collaborate to Repair Hazardous Road Conditions Along Westheimer
Houston, March 6, 2024 - Mayor John Whitmire and METRO have announced a joint effort to address hazardous road conditions along Westheimer Road, demonstrating a commitment to public safety and infrastructure improvements.Mayor Whitmire emphasized the importance of prioritizing the community's needs, stating, "Any decision we make to grow or change infrastructure will be initiated with a customer-first mindset and a responsibility to be good stewards of taxpayer resources." This sentiment underscores the city's dedication to enhancing mobility options and transit services...
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Mayor Whitmire to Appoint Independent Panel to Review HPD Suspended Cases
Houston Mayor John Whitmire has announced the appointment of an independent panel to review the Houston Police Department's handling of suspended cases. The decision aims to ensure transparency and maintain public trust in the wake of recent developments within the department."I trust and believe Police Chief Troy Finner is doing the best he can to manage the internal investigation, get to the bottom of it, and hold people accountable," Mayor Whitmire stated, expressing his confidence in the ongoing efforts within the department.Regarding the independent panel, Mayor...
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Mayor Whitmire's Priorities and Achievements in Houston
Mayor John Whitmire of Houston has reiterated his focus on public safety and infrastructure as top priorities for the city. Expressing concern over the backlog of suspended cases in the Houston Police Department, Mayor Whitmire has directed Police Chief Troy Finner to address the issue with accountability in mind.In a statement, Mayor Whitmire highlighted his commitment to resolving disputes within the city, such as the recent tentative agreement reached with the Houston Professional Firefighters Association to end an eight-year contract deadlock. He emphasized his...
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Mayor Whitmire Appoints New City of Houston Housing Director
Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Michael C. Nichols as the City of Houston's next director of the Housing and Community Development Department (HCD), pending approval from Houston City Council. Nichols, who previously served as the president and chief executive officer of the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County, is set to succeed Keith Bynam, who recently retired after 32 years with the HCD, the last three as director."Mike Nichols is the right person to lead the City's housing department at the right time," Mayor Whitmire said. "I look forward to working...
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This Is Not Mayor Whitmire's First Rodeo!
Mayor John Whitmire, as he often says, "This is not my first rodeo," is actively tackling the challenges inherited at City Hall and remains committed to promoting government transparency, improving public safety, and solving problems. Six weeks into his role, the mayor is building a team of experienced public servants who share his vision of a stronger Houston. He is also working closely with Council Members to ensure constituent's needs are being met.Regarding the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Vice Mayor Pro Tem presented a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Whitmire,...
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Mayor Whitmire Appoints New Houston Housing Authority Commissioners
Mayor John Whitmire has appointed new Commissioners of the Houston Housing Authority in response to concerns about financial mismanagement and a lack of leadership within the organization. In a recent letter to the mayor, HHA President & CEO David Northern, Sr. highlighted the agency's financial challenges, leading to the suspension of issuing vouchers for affordable housing options."Our analysis has revealed a critical situation: we are currently over 100% of the use of budget authority and our HUD-held reserves," Northern wrote in the letter.Mayor Whitmire expressed...