Happy New Year to all my friends in the Lebanese Community!
The year 2020 has been like no other but, as always, Houstonians have responded to the challenge with courage and strength. The COVID-19 Pandemic has affected everyone in Houston but we are pulling together to help each other.
Houston ended 2020 on both a negative and a positive note with the virus. The number of positive test results continues to increase but we now have the coronavirus vaccines. I visited Methodist Hospital on December 15 the day the first doses arrived and watched as our courageous medical workers began receiving the vaccine. We now know that almost one in seven Houstonians has been infected with the virus. When it’s your turn for the vaccine, I urge you in the strongest terms to do the right thing and take the shot.
And remember, even with the vaccines we can’t let up on our vigilance. We must continue to wear masks, social distance, practice proper hygiene and get tested.
To help Houstonians survive the pandemic, my administration partnered with other government agencies, community organizations, healthcare and other elected officials to provide masks, hand sanitizer, free virus testing, food for needy families, computer access for low-income Houstonians, mental health care and help for the homeless. We also provided rental assistance, economic assistance for small businesses, child care for essential workers, rental assistance for child care centers and relief programs for artists, musicians and music venues.
This year will also be known for the tragic death of former Houstonian George Floyd. Shortly afterwards, I signed an executive order banning chokeholds by Houston Police. I also appointed a Task Force on Policing Reform, which reported back with more than a hundred recommendations, which I am now reviewing.
I look forward to 2021 and implementing our Climate Action Plan, a science-based, community-driven strategy for the City to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lead a global energy transition. Our City is also committed to buying 100% renewable energy. Together, we are leading by example and showing how to reduce emissions in the Energy Capital of the World.
In the coming year, we will be implementing more of Resilient Houston, a framework to help the city mitigate flooding risks and improve climate readiness. And we will be putting into action the Vision Zero Action Plan to end traffic deaths and serious injuries in Houston by 2030.
I think everyone in Houston knows the sentiment I always quote from my mother: “Tomorrow will be better than today.” I truly believe that and work every day to make it so. Join me.
Here’s to a bright, happy new year in 2021!
