New Decade, Same Mayor, Some New Priorities

Photo credit Click2Houston

Happy New Year! It's been a long few months that I've been on hiatus pending the outcome of the rather tumultuous municipal elections. Glad to be back in this brand spanking new decade sharing some thoughts on our newly re-elected Mayor's priorities for our fair city. 

At his inaugural speech yesterday at Wortham Center, Mayor Turner spoke about his plans for the next four years. Let's have a look at what they are and what they mean to the CRE community.

Reducing Homelessness: There are over 4,000 homeless people living on Houston streets. Mayor Turner discussed the need for permanent housing solutions with wrap-around services for our homeless population. Turner indicated that federal funding is decreasing so local (private) funding must be identified and utilized. Turner is looking to the private sector to contribute $50 million to The Way Home by December 31,2021. 

What it Means: There were no City funds made available in the next budget to address this extremely important issue. As such the private sector will be asked to fund a 501(c)(3) organization (The Way Home via the Houston Coalition for the Homeless). We can all agree that reducing homelessness in Houston is a very worthy project and if successful, would have a positive impact on the community. Red flags tend to fly though when there is no solid plan of action to go with a large money ask. 

Flood Mitigation: Funded by federal dollars, there are many City and County storm water mitigation projects new and underway that will be completed under Turner's term. 

What it Means: All good news and much needed projects. 

Permitting Process: Streamline systems to increase efficiency and expediency for Harvey Home repair needs. 

What it Means: How long have we been griping about the permitting process here in Houston? Although the Mayor didn't mention how the changes would be accomplished, any improvements and accountability are welcomed. 

Street Repair: Mayor Turner said he has ordered Houston Public Works to deliver a plan within 60 days to identify which streets need major repairs, find a funding source, and lay out a timeline for completion. 

What it Means: Here's hoping the resulting plan can be put into action immediately to create a more welcoming environment for those who live and work in Houston and for those companies who consider relocating here, 

Climate Action Plan: The first ever climate action plan for the City of Houston will be released this month.

What it Means: We can say we have one, which is a positive for economic development. 

Complete Communities: Create communities with less dumping, more and better parks, quality grocery stores and affordable housing. Mayor Turner will seek private business financial investment to continue this program.

What it Means: Strong communities create strong economic environments. All good for Houston.   

Police: Add 400 officers over the next four years. 

What it Means: We absolutely need more law enforcement on the streets to combat our rising crime problem. A safe city attracts more businesses and drives economic growth.  

Astroworld2: ?

What it Means: Of Houston's 99 problems, a theme park isn't one of them.

The Mayor also mentioned enthusiasm for a few other non-city initiatives such as MetroNext, High Speed Rail, ION the innovation hub opening this year, and the new Texas Medical Center research facility under development, TMC3. 

We also have a majority of women on City Council for the first time in a long time. More about that later. #tb