My administration held the first of many planned “Demolition Days” throughout the city on Friday, May 15. Demolition Days is an initiative focused on demolishing dangerous and blighted structures that attract illegal dumping. The targeted properties include structures located in flood plains and areas that impede effective drainage. Earlier this year, City Council approved allocating $30 million from the City’s Storm water Fund for the initiative. Houston Public Works and the Houston Contractors Association are collaborating to tear down the properties. Crews demolished eight properties on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16 from Kingwood to the Third Ward.
We are moving in the right direction. and it inspires my team to work harder, to collaborate with the private sector, and to thank the public employees. This is only the beginning under the funding mechanism that we passed in Council. Houstonians see the abandoned houses as they go to work and school – across Houston, not just where we are today. This is a city challenge that we are meeting, it’s going to take time, it didn’t get like this overnight, but this is a heck of a statement and it’s going to produce great results.
Budget Update
This month, I will officially ask City Council to pass my proposed FY 2027 budget. Before my administration, the City never really addressed the systemic, structural, financial broken system of funding municipal government.
It calls for designating the Solid Waste Municipal Department as a Municipal Utility and implementing a $5 per month administrative user fee to align with the actual cost of service and to support long term fleet, staff and reliability
I have proposed a responsible plan that is transformative and creates a strong foundation. It protects vital services including public safety, parks and libraries, neighborhood services and the municipal court system.
Everything I’m talking about is just the beginning, and it’s going to get better in future years. This budget plan represents financial security for the city of Houston, and it’s the health of the city’s finances. We are not kicking the can down the road in my administration.
Hurricane Season Begins in June
June 1 marks the beginning of Hurricane Season, and it’s never too soon to prepare for the season ahead. I have urged all City of Houston Departments and public safety partners to stand ready. I remind you to make a plan and gather supplies to keep your family and pets safe from extreme weather.
It’s never too soon
-
Build a disaster supply kit.
-
Know your evacuation zones and routes before a storm strikes.
-
Keep your communication devices charged and have backup power supplies
Sign up for emergency alerts by texting ALERTHOUSTON to 888777.
Happy Father’s Day
Father’s Day holds a special place in my heart. As a father to two wonderful daughters, I have experienced firsthand the profound joy and pride that comes with parenthood. My daughters have grown into remarkable women who are giving back to our city in meaningful ways, and they have blessed me with the incredible honor of being a grandfather. Fatherhood has been the greatest responsibility and honor of my life, shaping me into the person I am today.
To all the fathers and father figures in Houston, thank you for your unwavering dedication and love. Your role in nurturing and guiding the next generation is invaluable.
