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Houston activists sound alarm over sex trafficking resources ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup
Read full article: Houston activists sound alarm over sex trafficking resources ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup“International events like the World Cup bring an influx of visitors, and we need to make sure Houston is prepared,” Organizers said in a news release. “We cannot wait until the international spotlight is on us — we must act before that wave hits.“
Houston Mayor John Whitmire reacts to Gov. Abbott’s crime task force
Read full article: Houston Mayor John Whitmire reacts to Gov. Abbott’s crime task forceMayor John Whitmire is responding to Governor Greg Abbott’s announcement of a new violent crime task force that will launch in Houston and Harris County.
6th body in 2 weeks found in Houston bayous; police say cases not connected
Read full article: 6th body in 2 weeks found in Houston bayous; police say cases not connectedHouston police have discovered another body in a local waterway — this time near Commerce and Milam — bringing the total number of bodies found in area bayous this year to 15.
Woman’s body recovered from downtown Houston bayou; police rule out link to other cases
Read full article: Woman’s body recovered from downtown Houston bayou; police rule out link to other casesHPD is investigating after a woman’s body was found in a downtown bayou early Friday, though investigators say it does not appear connected to other recent recoveries.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire addresses serial killer rumors after bodies found in bayous
Read full article: Houston Mayor John Whitmire addresses serial killer rumors after bodies found in bayousOver the past week, five bodies have been pulled from Houston bayous and the Houston Police Department plans to address the discoveries in a press conference.
Harris County political leaders looking at security measures in aftermath of murder of Charlie Kirk
Read full article: Harris County political leaders looking at security measures in aftermath of murder of Charlie KirkThe message was clear and concise from Harris County Republicans, “We live in Houston, we don’t want Houston to have a similar situation,” said Cindy Siegel, Chairman of the Republican Party of Harris County.
Mayor Whitmire holds 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Houston
Read full article: Mayor Whitmire holds 9/11 remembrance ceremony in HoustonThis ceremony will honor the bravery and sacrifice of first responders, like retired NYPD Detective Victoria d’Angelo-Thompkins, who answered the call on that fateful day.
Houston launches “Can Blitz” to speed up trash can replacements for residents
Read full article: Houston launches “Can Blitz” to speed up trash can replacements for residentsHouston has launched the "Can Blitz" program to expedite trash can replacements for residents, announced by Mayor John Whitmire.
Houston City Council approves ban on standing or walking on narrow medians
Read full article: Houston City Council approves ban on standing or walking on narrow mediansA new ordinance proposed by the Houston City Council aims to keep pedestrians off narrow medians in an effort to reduce serious accidents and save lives.
EXPLAINER: How is panhandling regulated, enforced across the Houston area?
Read full article: EXPLAINER: How is panhandling regulated, enforced across the Houston area?As the City of Houston continues to examine how to handle residents experiencing homelessness, the topic of panhandling has returned to the spotlight.
Houston City Council shifts public comment sessions to Tuesday evenings
Read full article: Houston City Council shifts public comment sessions to Tuesday evenings"This change in time was made to give the community more opportunities to engage and voice their concerns to their elected officials," the City of Houston said in a social media caption back in July.
Mayor Whitmire calls for new crosswalk, stronger traffic enforcement near Lamar HS after student hit by SUV
Read full article: Mayor Whitmire calls for new crosswalk, stronger traffic enforcement near Lamar HS after student hit by SUVMayor John Whitmire has implemented stronger traffic control measures to protect students walking near Lamar High School.
Business owner charged with bribery says he ‘regrets lapse in judgement’ but should still be paid by city
Read full article: Business owner charged with bribery says he ‘regrets lapse in judgement’ but should still be paid by cityHouston Mayor John Whitmire stopped a payout last week to a Houston business owner charged with bribery, following KPRC 2’s ‘DRAINED’ Investigation into the city’s waterline contract corruption scandal. Now that business owner says he’s sorry for what happened and explains he’s still owed for the finished work.
Houston Mayor Whitmire stops payment of $8 million to business owner charged with bribery
Read full article: Houston Mayor Whitmire stops payment of $8 million to business owner charged with briberyOne of the Houston business owners charged with bribery following our ‘DRAINED’ Investigation into Houston’s contract corruption scandal, is scheduled to receive more than $8 million this week. This is for work completed on an unrelated city project.
Health fairs, giveaways, and vaccines: Houston preps for back-to-school season
Read full article: Health fairs, giveaways, and vaccines: Houston preps for back-to-school seasonAs the school year approaches in Houston, the city is hosting various initiatives to ensure students are well-prepared and healthy.
Residents react to new $12.4M recycling initiative approved in Houston
Read full article: Residents react to new $12.4M recycling initiative approved in HoustonCity council voted to approve $12.4 million dollars for the City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department to purchase dozens of new garbage and recycling trucks.
CLICK2PINS: Send us photos of your overfilled recycling bins
Read full article: CLICK2PINS: Send us photos of your overfilled recycling binsWe've heard your frustrations about recycling delays. Now is your chance to show us how severe the issue has gotten in your neighborhood by sending photos to our Click2Pins. Click the article for more details.
Houston approves over $12.4M to purchase new garbage and recycling trucks to curb ongoing delays
Read full article: Houston approves over $12.4M to purchase new garbage and recycling trucks to curb ongoing delaysThe City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department is asking for $12.5 million to purchase 25 new garbage and recycling trucks, a move officials hope will finally get collection services back on track.
Arson suspect charged in series of fires at Memorial Park, Houston Arboretum
Read full article: Arson suspect charged in series of fires at Memorial Park, Houston ArboretumThe Houston Fire Department is cracking down on a series of fires in Memorial Park, and while one person has been arrested, arson investigators believe there may be more people involved.
‘We can’t keep kicking the can’: Houston recycling delays blamed on rodents, broken trucks, and outdated systems
Read full article: ‘We can’t keep kicking the can’: Houston recycling delays blamed on rodents, broken trucks, and outdated systemsFor weeks, recycling bins across Houston sat untouched, some for more than 40 days. Homeowners shared their frustrations as piles of bottles, cardboard, and other materials lined curbs across the city. Now, city leaders are offering explanations and a plan to get back on track.
Doctors warn ordinance could harm Houston’s homeless population
Read full article: Doctors warn ordinance could harm Houston’s homeless populationHouston City Council is considering a significant update to its civility ordinance, aimed at addressing homelessness. The proposed changes would enforce a 24-hour ban on sitting, lying, or placing personal items on sidewalks in the Central Business District and East Downtown, replacing the current time-limited restrictions. While the ordinance could lead to Class C misdemeanor charges, with fines up to $500, the focus is on connecting individuals to services over punitive actions. This decision, pending tomorrow's vote, could mark a pivotal shift in the city's strategy to manage homelessness.
Renovated Central Patrol Station set to reopen in Houston’s Washington Avenue Coalition area
Read full article: Renovated Central Patrol Station set to reopen in Houston’s Washington Avenue Coalition areaThe historic building, more than 100 years old, now houses both the Houston Police Department’s Central Patrol Station and Special Operations division.
Former Houston Food Insecurity board member calls camp where girls went missing after flood a ‘white-only girls camp’
Read full article: Former Houston Food Insecurity board member calls camp where girls went missing after flood a ‘white-only girls camp’In a TikTok video, Sade Perkins labeled the camp as "a white-only girls' Christian camp," sparking backlash.
Houston firefighters deploy to assist in Kerr County flood recovery
Read full article: Houston firefighters deploy to assist in Kerr County flood recoveryThe Houston Fire Department has dispatched an engine and a Tactical Deployment Unit with four members to assist flood recovery efforts in Kerr County, Texas.
City of Houston to pilot new permitting program to reduce turnaround time
Read full article: City of Houston to pilot new permitting program to reduce turnaround time"This certainly conforms to one of my campaign pledges to reform the permitting process in the City of Houston," Mayor John Whitmire said. "I've heard repeatedly that people would not do business with the City of Houston in the home building industry because it would take up to a year to get a permit."
‘Let’s get the job done’: Mayor Whitmire speaks to 2 Investigates about recycling pick-up issues Houstonians are facing
Read full article: ‘Let’s get the job done’: Mayor Whitmire speaks to 2 Investigates about recycling pick-up issues Houstonians are facingHouston’s recycling pick-up problem, a long-standing issue, is once again causing frustration for residents and Mayor John Whitmire.
Mayor Whitmire to celebrate Houston Fire Department’s largest graduating class in history
Read full article: Mayor Whitmire to celebrate Houston Fire Department’s largest graduating class in historyMore than 100 cadets are graduating to become official members of the Houston Fire Department, and Mayor John Whitmire took to social media to celebrate the monumental achievement.
Houston secures over $200 million in state funding, including $10 million for Milby HS student’s memorial bridge
Read full article: Houston secures over $200 million in state funding, including $10 million for Milby HS student’s memorial bridgeThe City of Houston has secured over $200 million in state funding, with $10 million allocated for the Sergio Ivan Rodriguez Memorial Pedestrian Bridge, honoring a Milby High School student who died while walking to school.
$314 million in federal disaster relief could bring major housing aid to Houston
Read full article: $314 million in federal disaster relief could bring major housing aid to HoustonRelief may soon be on the way for Houston residents still recovering from the effects of last year’s May derecho and Hurricane Beryl.
Mayor Whitmire says city will amend disaster recovery plan, allocate $50M grant for housing needs
Read full article: Mayor Whitmire says city will amend disaster recovery plan, allocate $50M grant for housing needsMayor John Whitmire announced Tuesday that the city of Houston will be updating its Draft Action Plan for Disaster Recovery following the 2024 Derecho and Hurricane Beryl, with a $50 million proposal allocated to support housing needs.
BLOG: HPD gives out citations on 288 and South Loop in new traffic safety initiative
Read full article: BLOG: HPD gives out citations on 288 and South Loop in new traffic safety initiativeThe City of Houston is tackling the road rage and aggressive driving problem on highways on Highway 288 and the South Loop (I-610) on Tuesday.
Thousands take to Houston streets for ‘No Kings’ protests with no incidents
Read full article: Thousands take to Houston streets for ‘No Kings’ protests with no incidents“Your commitment to exercising your First Amendment rights with respect, dignity, and unity reflects the very best of our city,” the City of Houston shared in a social media post. “No arrests. No serious injuries. Just one strong, united message — delivered peacefully.“
Houston mayor announces new traffic safety initiative aimed at curbing road rage, reckless driving
Read full article: Houston mayor announces new traffic safety initiative aimed at curbing road rage, reckless drivingHouston Mayor John Whitmire announced a new traffic safety initiative aimed at reducing reckless driving, road rage, and speeding on major highways like I-45 and US-59.
City of Houston unveils drafted disaster recovery action plan for Hurricane Beryl, Derecho
Read full article: City of Houston unveils drafted disaster recovery action plan for Hurricane Beryl, DerechoIn the proposed Action Plan for Disaster Recovery, the City of Houston plans to use half of the $314.6M provided by the Department of Housing and Urban Development on addressing infrastructure needs.
More than 20 new cooling centers opening in Houston to help residents find respite from intense heat
Read full article: More than 20 new cooling centers opening in Houston to help residents find respite from intense heatHoustonians know all too well about the dreadful heat, but residents in need can always turn to cooling shelters, and now there will be an additional number of centers to help people escape the heatwave.
‘Does not describe Houston’: Houston mayor dismisses congressman’s warning about potentially violent riots
Read full article: ‘Does not describe Houston’: Houston mayor dismisses congressman’s warning about potentially violent riotsLeaders in Houston and Harris County have responded to a letter written by Congressman Wesley Hunt expressing concerns about upcoming protests in the city.
Houston residents file petition against mayor over voter-approved drainage fund
Read full article: Houston residents file petition against mayor over voter-approved drainage fundWith hurricane season around the corner, Houston residents are demanding accountability and the funding they were promised.
$7B budget battle: Houstonians speak out against mayor’s proposed budget
Read full article: $7B budget battle: Houstonians speak out against mayor’s proposed budgetHouston Mayor John Whitmire's proposed $7 billion budget aims to prioritize public safety without raising taxes but faces criticism for potentially compromising essential services.
Houston City Council unanimously approves new HPD contract to raise pay, recruit officers
Read full article: Houston City Council unanimously approves new HPD contract to raise pay, recruit officersHouston police chief J. Noe Diaz called the new contract “generational” and said it will allow his department to recruit “homegrown talent.”
Key highlights in Houston police union’s 5-year contract proposal
Read full article: Key highlights in Houston police union’s 5-year contract proposalThe Houston Police Officers’ Union voted to approve a new five-year contract, several provisions continue longstanding policies that shape the department’s operations and oversight.
Houston police union approves “generational” contract to increase salaries, recruit new officers
Read full article: Houston police union approves “generational” contract to increase salaries, recruit new officersA historic new contract has been approved to help recruit new officers, as well as raise officers' salaries. Right now, starting officers are making $64K a year, but this new contract will bump that to $81K a year. On top of that, the new contract adds 500 more officers to the department.
Over a handful of officer-involved shootings reported in Houston since the start of May
Read full article: Over a handful of officer-involved shootings reported in Houston since the start of MayHouston began the month with police shooting a man who they say led them on a chase in a stolen SUV. The next day, Mayor John Whitmire announced a five-year contract agreement with the police officers’ union.
Houston projects major budget deficits despite mayor’s push for efficiency in 2026 proposal
Read full article: Houston projects major budget deficits despite mayor’s push for efficiency in 2026 proposalHouston city leaders are facing a sobering financial outlook as they begin discussions on the proposed 2026 city budget and look ahead.
What’s next for Houston water bill rates? City Council set to approve bid
Read full article: What’s next for Houston water bill rates? City Council set to approve bidHow much residents pay for water in Houston is a significant focus of the ongoing “Drained” investigation. The city may hire a consulting company to study its water rates.
Houston reaches tentative five-year contract agreement with police officers’ union
Read full article: Houston reaches tentative five-year contract agreement with police officers’ unionMayor Whitmire will be joined by Police Chief J. Noe Diaz and members of the HPOU at City Hall to outline the agreement’s salary updates, benefits, and recruitment efforts.
‘Zero tolerance’: Mayor Whitmire comments on 12 HFD cadets terminated for sharing racist memes in Instagram chat
Read full article: ‘Zero tolerance’: Mayor Whitmire comments on 12 HFD cadets terminated for sharing racist memes in Instagram chatHouston Mayor John Whitmire has commented for the first time regarding the decision to terminate 12 cadets at the Houston Fire Department after officials uncovered a social media group chat sharing offensive and harmful content.
Solid Waste Operations a key focus this week at City Hall, Mayor and his team looking to purchase over 30 vehicles
Read full article: Solid Waste Operations a key focus this week at City Hall, Mayor and his team looking to purchase over 30 vehiclesThe City of Houston is set to vote on more trucks for solid waste as well more contractors to help pick it up.
Illegal game room shut down in Houston following undercover investigation
Read full article: Illegal game room shut down in Houston following undercover investigationAn illegal gambling operation in Houston's 10700 block of FM 1960 Rd W was dismantled following an undercover investigation led by Constable Mark Herman’s Criminal Investigations Division.
‘We formally accept:’ Fleet Week coming to Houston after Mayor John Whitmire’s invitation
Read full article: ‘We formally accept:’ Fleet Week coming to Houston after Mayor John Whitmire’s invitationThis year marks a special year for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps as it celebrates 250 years of service to this nation.
Over 1,000 protest at Houston City Hall over federal funding cuts and executive orders
Read full article: Over 1,000 protest at Houston City Hall over federal funding cuts and executive ordersMore than 1,000 people gathered outside Houston City Hall today in a protest organized by nonpartisan advocacy group 5051 Houston.
320 fire hydrants currently out of service currently throughout Houston area
Read full article: 320 fire hydrants currently out of service currently throughout Houston areaWhitmire was fired up on Thursday telling Houstonians, “If we don’t make this city safe and have workable fire hydrants nothing else matters.”
Texas legislative bills take aim at potential relocation for state offices and agencies
Read full article: Texas legislative bills take aim at potential relocation for state offices and agenciesThere is a push in our backyard by State Senator Mayes Middleton to reconstruct how our state government looks and operates in the future. The approach is to not only save money for Texans, but also to make government more efficient in the Lone Star State.
UH poll reveals Houstonians divided on issues, quality of life, and city’s overall direction
Read full article: UH poll reveals Houstonians divided on issues, quality of life, and city’s overall directionA recent survey conducted by the University of Houston showed stark divisions among residents when it comes to the direction the city is going in, how safe they feel and the job our elected leaders are doing.
Houston joins nationwide “Hands Off!” protests with thousands rallying against federal policies
Read full article: Houston joins nationwide “Hands Off!” protests with thousands rallying against federal policiesOver 600,000 people took to the streets in more than 1,200 “Hands Off” protests across the United States on Thursday, with three of those demonstrations held in the Houston area.
Houston unveils $2 billion George R. Brown Convention Center expansion plan
Read full article: Houston unveils $2 billion George R. Brown Convention Center expansion planHouston city leaders and company executives are coming together to unveil new plans to reinvent downtown Houston’s convention district.
Houston airports say ‘Konnichiwa’ to ZIPAIR: Inaugural flight to Tokyo takes off!
Read full article: Houston airports say ‘Konnichiwa’ to ZIPAIR: Inaugural flight to Tokyo takes off!Exciting news has landed at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with the inaugural flight of ZIPAIR, connecting Houston to the dazzling lights of Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT). ZIPAIR has officially become Houston’s first international long-haul low-cost airline, operating four flights a week to the Land of the Rising Sun.
What’s next for 18th Congressional District after Sylvester Turner’s passing?
Read full article: What’s next for 18th Congressional District after Sylvester Turner’s passing?The 18th Congressional District of Texas is once again facing a leadership transition following the death of U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner at age 70.
‘I’ve lost a personal friend:’ Mayor Whitmire offers condolences for Sylvester Turner
Read full article: ‘I’ve lost a personal friend:’ Mayor Whitmire offers condolences for Sylvester Turner“I’ve lost a personal friend,” a somber Mayor John Whitmire said before the City Council. “No one will be able to step into Sylvester’s shoes and carry on his duties because there’s only one Sylvester Turner.”
How Houston plans to use $2.5 million grants to combat homelessness
Read full article: How Houston plans to use $2.5 million grants to combat homelessnessAs part of the city's commitment to combat homelessness, there are big plans in store for several grants equating to roughly $2.5 million that, if approved by council members, could help facilitate these efforts.
Next phase of Houston’s water bill improvement plan raises concerns as charges keep skyrocketing
Read full article: Next phase of Houston’s water bill improvement plan raises concerns as charges keep skyrocketingThe first phase of Houston’s water bill improvement plan is nearing completion. However, instead of improvements, many customers are reporting higher bills than before the mayor’s promised changes.
Mayor Whitmire calls for Houstonians to ‘use common sense,’ protect ‘most vulnerable’ ahead of cold front
Read full article: Mayor Whitmire calls for Houstonians to ‘use common sense,’ protect ‘most vulnerable’ ahead of cold frontHouston Mayor John Whitmire held a press conference as Texas prepares for more cold weather this week.
Houston city employees found abusing credit cards, audit reveals
Read full article: Houston city employees found abusing credit cards, audit revealsWhen Houston Mayor John Whitmire was elected, he promised a citywide audit to identify waste and inefficiencies. The results are now in, and they reveal significant areas for improvement.
Houston city council member Willie Davis announces ' Police, Pastors & People’ initiative
Read full article: Houston city council member Willie Davis announces ' Police, Pastors & People’ initiativeHouston City Council Member Willie Davis is set to announce a new initiative aimed at addressing the growing concerns over violent crime in the community.
1-year after HPD investigations scandal: Changes to department leadership as Mayor pushes for more officers
Read full article: 1-year after HPD investigations scandal: Changes to department leadership as Mayor pushes for more officersHouston Mayor John Whitmire is making strides in reforming the city's police department after the shocking revelation of over 200,000 suspended sexual assault and domestic violence cases.
Houston Health Department to launch $20M grant initiative for climate resilience
Read full article: Houston Health Department to launch $20M grant initiative for climate resilienceThe Houston Health Department is launching a $20 million EPA-funded initiative for climate resilience, beginning with the Trees and Trash 2025 event in the Fifth Ward.
Who is Jamie Bryant? What we know about Houston Housing Authorities new President and CEO
Read full article: Who is Jamie Bryant? What we know about Houston Housing Authorities new President and CEOHouston Housing Authority appoints a new CEO and President months after KPRC 2 exposed a series of questionable contracts and projects
FIFA World Cup 2026 in Houston: Elected leaders discuss safety plans, NRG Stadium upgrades
Read full article: FIFA World Cup 2026 in Houston: Elected leaders discuss safety plans, NRG Stadium upgradesHouston, Harris County leaders are set to discuss safety plans, and stadium upgrades ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026.
Mayor Whitmire sends barbecue to Kansas City after Chiefs’ win, with a message for the refs
Read full article: Mayor Whitmire sends barbecue to Kansas City after Chiefs’ win, with a message for the refsHouston Mayor John Whitmire is a man of his word. He’s sending some of Houston’s best food to Kansas City after the Chiefs’ big win and making sure that the people who made it all possible get a plate.
‘Successful by any measurement’: No deaths reported by car crashes, carbon monoxide poisoning during Houston snowstorms
Read full article: ‘Successful by any measurement’: No deaths reported by car crashes, carbon monoxide poisoning during Houston snowstormsHouston Mayor John Whitmire is holding a press conference to provide the latest information on the winter storm in the area this week.
‘We’re about halfway there’: Houston mayor again warns Houstonians to stay off roads during winter storm
Read full article: ‘We’re about halfway there’: Houston mayor again warns Houstonians to stay off roads during winter stormHouston Mayor John Whitmire held another press conference to provide the latest updates on the anticipated weather conditions as they begin to ramp up across Houston tonight
‘It’s going to certainly worsen’: Judge Hidalgo warns of dangerous weather ahead
Read full article: ‘It’s going to certainly worsen’: Judge Hidalgo warns of dangerous weather aheadHarris County is preparing for an impending Arctic front, with Judge Lina Hidalgo announcing a readiness plan to keep residents safe and warm.