Later this month, I will propose a new balanced budget for the City of Houston. I am confident that my administration’s work to trim unnecessary spending and eliminate waste, fraud, duplication, and corruption will make a difference in FY 26.
Recently, I announced a significant settlement of the “Rebuild Houston” lawsuit that two local engineers filed before I became mayor. I sat down with the plaintiffs, gave them an honest look at municipal finances, and negotiated an agreement allowing a $70 million reduction in the City’s projected budget deficit.
As your mayor, I am committed to fixing Houston, and I do that every day on behalf of all Houstonians. The recent settlement is a significant step forward in addressing our shortfall and will, in future years, put hundreds of millions of dollars into repairing our infrastructure. We are dedicated to being transparent at each step, ensuring you are well informed.
My team is making other tough decisions to help strengthen the City’s financial stability. In addition to a hiring freeze, we have offered a generous retirement incentive to nearly 3,000 eligible employees. The individuals who chose this option marked May 1, 2025, as their last day of employment with the City. I am grateful for their contributions to the City over the past several years. As we continue this significant financial and organizational transformation guided by the recently completed Citywide Efficiency Study, we are ensuring that Houston meets it responsibilities and positions the City to serve our number one customer – you, well into the future.
Earlier this year, I asked all City of Houston employees to return to work in departmental offices so they could better serve all constituents. I am proud to announce that Houston’s office workers lead the nation in the return-to-office trend, which, according to a new report, helps to keep Downtown Houston hopping with foot traffic.
IN THE COMMUNITY
From the Houston Art Car Parade, throwing the first ceremonial pitch at an Astros game, to listening to the Super Neighborhood Alliance, I am grateful to connect with Houstonians in the community each day. It makes my work more satisfying to visit with you at events and share my priorities like infrastructure and public safety.
All big cities have challenges, but in Houston, we fix ours. Let’s go to work!