Mayor Whitmire's July 4 Newsletter

Mayor Whitmire's July 4 Newsletter

July 2, 2024 --

Happy July 4th! This week, our country and community will unite to celebrate Independence Day and enjoy parades, barbecue, and the City's Official Fourth of July celebration, Shell Freedom Over Texas.

• Click here for the Freedom Over Texas website

Dear Houstonians,

As summer heats up, our city is buzzing with vibrant energy and events that reflect the diverse and inclusive spirit of Houston. June was a time of celebration, and I am delighted to highlight two significant occasions: Pride celebrations and Father's Day.

Pride Month is a testament to our commitment to equality and acceptance. Houston's Pride celebrations are a vibrant reminder of the progress we've made and the work that still lies ahead to ensure that everyone in our city feels seen, heard, and valued. Let us continue to stand together, embracing our differences and championing love and equality for all.

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.

Wishing everyone a joyful and safe summer.

Highlights

Houston Libraries get the greenlight

I am pleased to announce the city's plans for our libraries. The vibrant Houston neighborhood of Montrose will now have not one but two new library spaces, as my administration has decided to resume two wide-scale library projects.

As confirmed by Houston Public Library Executive Director Cynthia Wilson, the new library space at the Montrose Collective and the North Regional Library in Acres Homes are moving forward. This new library will feature meeting spaces, children's and teens' areas, and reading spaces, providing a much-needed resource for the community.

Thank you for your continued support and patience. We look forward to welcoming you to these new spaces soon.

Update on the Water Bill Improvement Plan

I'm excited to share an important update on our efforts to prevent inaccurate water bills and tackle structural issues aimed at restoring public trust through transparency.

The City of Houston will begin transitioning to actual usage water bills for some single-family residential customers who have working remote reading devices (RRD). Those customers will soon receive official letters that their accounts will return to actual water usage no sooner than 60 days from the date of the notification. As a result of this change, the customers will notice a change in their water bill from the blue "set usage" to white "actual" usage bills. The Houston Public Works Customer Account Services team has verified multiple readings to ensure the device is functioning and sending accurate information on water usage. Additional verification will take place during the 60-day transition period.

Currently, more than 34,000 RRD's have been installed since the launch of the Water Bill Improvement Plan on April 1, 2024. The city expects to install approximately 125,000 remote reading devices throughout Houston by the end of 2024.

Our goal is to provide transparency and help you manage any adjustments to your bills. We're committed to improving our water billing system to better serve our community.

Important Information for You and Yours

Help us Help you!

The city of Houston offers the Alert Houston service for all Houstonians who want to get first hand information on emergency situations, alerts and resources. During this Hurricane Season and year-round, it is important that you sign up and stay informed at no cost to you.

Stay Cool, Houston!

As we face extremely hot weather, it's important to stay safe and cool. When the temperature and heat index reach a dangerous level, the City of Houston will open cooling centers to help you find relief from the heat. You can visit our publicly accessible facilities, including Multi-Service Centers and libraries, during their hours of operation.

• To find the nearest cooling location to you, please click here

Remember, you can also visit any open city library or multi-service center during regular business hours if you need a place to cool off.

Happening in Your Community

Recruiting New Police Officers

Public safety is my priority and the newly adopted 2025 budget funds more police and fire cadet classes. Recently, I attended the Houston Police Department's Annual Recruitment Fair. Thank you to the community for showing up to support our officers!

Recognizing Asian Restaurants in Southwest Houston

On June 11, I celebrated Asian Restaurant Weeks with Councilmember Thomas in Houston's International District. We recognized 42 outstanding Asian restaurants across Houston for their exceptional cuisine and dedicated service. By highlighting these establishments, we aim to further promote our city's rich culinary diversity.

AAPI Restaurant Weeks shines a spotlight on locally owned AAPI food establishments, supporting their businesses and raising community awareness. This initiative also raises funds to provide rice and noodles for low-income seniors, adding a philanthropic dimension to the celebration. AAPI Restaurant Weeks will conclude this Saturday, June 15. I encourage everyone to show your support for these restaurants, savor their delicious offerings, and contribute to this meaningful cause.

Working for You

City Council Engages with HISD Superintendent to Address Community Concerns

In response to concerns shared by many Houstonians about HISD schools, City Council and I, invited Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles to City Hall. This was his first appearance before the Council since taking over leadership of the state's largest school district.

The council welcomed Superintendent Miles to explain the changes his administration has implemented and to share the community's concerns with him. Council members emphasized their commitment to maintaining an open dialogue with community members regarding the management of HISD.

Taking Action to Protect Taxpayer Money

In my commitment to safeguard taxpayer money, I have announced a thorough review of all Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZs) across the city. This decision follows recent charges against an official with the Midtown Redevelopment Authority (MRA) and two contractors for allegedly laundering over $8 million in taxpayer funds.

Todd Edwards, a former real estate asset manager for the MRA, faces charges of abuse of official capacity, money laundering, and theft. Veronica Ugorji and Kenneth Jones, two former contractors for the MRA, are also charged with abuse of official capacity and money laundering. I believe further investigative work will uncover additional conflicts.

The TIRZs play a crucial role in the maintenance and redevelopment of our city. It's outrageous that we've discovered criminal intent within these organizations, and we are committed to rooting out corruption to ensure these funds are used appropriately for the benefit of all Houstonians.

We Will Never Forget

As a city, we mourn the tragic loss of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray. Her death has deeply affected our community.

Thanks to the dedication of our law enforcement and the invaluable support from community members who provided crucial information, two men have been charged in connection with this crime. Johan Jose Rangel Martinez and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos were swiftly apprehended.

I am deeply grateful for the community member who came forward with information leading to their arrest, and the relentless efforts of our police.

This tragedy highlights the importance of public safety.

We must continue to support law enforcement and strengthen our community bonds to prevent such acts in the future. Let us honor Jocelyn's memory by working together for a safer Houston.

So Much to Celebrate

Pride Parade

Thank you to everyone who came together to make our Pride Parade a resounding success. Your unity and dedication have once again showcased the very best of our city.

My deepest thanks to our incredible law enforcement and first responders for their unwavering dedication. Your presence ensured everyone could enjoy the festivities safely, and your assistance to those affected by the heat was invaluable. Your commitment to our community is truly commendable.

To our vibrant community, thank you for your energy, positivity, and commitment to a safe celebration. Houston's spirit shone brightly, and I couldn't be prouder of our city. Your kindness, diversity, and joy demonstrate the strength of our community.

Here's to many more celebrations of love, unity, and pride!

Indo-American Chamber of Commerce

I was privileged to attend the 25th-anniversary reception of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce Greater Houston.

During my time as a state senator, I have collaborated closely with the chamber and witnessed its remarkable growth. Houston boasts a significant Indian population, and the chamber consistently strives to amplify their voices.

DACA 12-year Anniversary

Last month, I had the honor of joining community and business leaders, along with elected officials, to commemorate the 12th anniversary of DACA.

From my time in the Texas Senate, I have steadfastly supported Dreamers by advocating for in-state tuition and supporting bipartisan efforts for a pathway to citizenship. While today is a day of celebration, it is also a day of challenge.

My former intern in the Texas Senate, who was a Dreamer, got her start in my office and is now a successful immigration lawyer.

Let us stay united in ensuring all community members can thrive without fear. I will continue to advocate for bipartisan efforts to give the dreamers a pathway to citizenship and opportunity. There is still much work to be done to ensure that Dreamers have the opportunities and support they deserve.

We've accomplished so much together, and even greater things are ahead. As we move forward, let's continue looking out for each other and fostering unity. Stay safe in the summer heat, and remember our cooling centers are here for you. Thank you, Houston, for your unwavering support and commitment to our city's bright future.

Let's get to work!

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