Flooding and dangerous buildings are two major concerns for Houstonians, and my administration is taking action to address both.
Recently, City Council passed an ordinance allowing Houston Public Works to use $30 million from the City’s Storm Water Fund to demolish dilapidated buildings. This is a legal and efficient plan. The Storm Water Fund is dedicated to drainage maintenance and operations.
This is both a public safety and flooding issue. Residents are asking us to demolish dangerous buildings in their neighborhoods. City Attorney Arturo Michel believes this is a legal use of the funds, and we intend to respond to the community and move forward.
In addition to demolitions, Storm Water Fund dollars will support debris removal, impervious surface reduction, site regrading, and related cleanup efforts. These improvements will enhance drainage, reduce runoff and erosion, and lower flood risk citywide.
Vacant and dilapidated buildings pose a risk to city drainage because they often attract illegal dumping. The City currently has about 2,000 buildings eligible for demolition, with more than 300 already on the approved list. I will work with City Council to create a priority list that improves drainage and removes blight in neighborhoods across Houston.
Fleet Week Houston
I am excited to announce that Fleet Week Houston is back on schedule. Last year’s event was postponed due to the federal government shutdown.
Now scheduled for April 15–22, 2026, the inaugural Fleet Week Houston will bring multiple U.S. Navy vessels and more than 1,000 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen to the city for a series of events and experiences.
Fleet Week Houston will be celebrated during America 250, the official nationwide commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary.
The City of Houston is hosting Fleet Week in collaboration with partners including the Port of Houston, Houston First Corporation, and others. This marks the first time a Texas city has hosted a Navy Fleet Week.
Join the celebration: fleetweekhouston.com
State of the City
My next State of the City address will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the Hilton Americas–Houston. I will address the public, key industry leaders, and community officials, sharing an update on my administration’s progress since taking office and highlighting my top priorities to continue elevating Houston and its economy.
My priorities remain public safety, infrastructure, government that works, and quality-of-life issues.
The State of the City is hosted by Houston First Corporation and the Greater Houston Partnership.