Houston’s newest mayor John Whitmire celebrated with first responders just hours after his inauguration on Tuesday.
He held a private party for city employees at the George R. Brown Convention Center.
There were no bow ties or fancy dresses to be seen. Mayor Whitmire said it’s all about saying “Thank you” to first responders.
KPRC2′s Candace Burns was at the event Tuesday evening, and spoke to police and firefighters who said it was a nice break, as they are usually together during unfortunate events.
“It just shows the value and commitment that this mayor has made for public safety, not only in his 50-year career but also what he said he was going to do on day one,” said Patrick M. Lancton, President of Houston Professional Firefighters Association.
The mayor says it’s an opportunity to build relationships and show the people who step up to protect our community that they are valued. Attendees well received his message.
Houston Police Chief Troy Finner was also at the event.
“Normally, we get together and it’s a tragedy, but tonight it’s just good. It’s about unity and bringing people together, and you see all the smiles on the faces of the first responders, and it just warms my heart,” he said.
Mayor Whitmire says this is just the first step— he plans to focus on recruiting more police and firefighters to help keep Houston safe.
“I want to thank them, and I want Houstonians to appreciate them, and it starts right here on the night of my swearing-in,” he said.
Police, firefighters, and the mayor all say that after tonight, it’s time to get to work.
Whitmire has meetings with union reps to discuss solutions to the challenges the first responders have faced in the city.