US EditionProtestors Escorted Out as Houston City Council Approves Mayor’s $7B Budget
- Houston City Council approved Mayor John Whitmire’s $7 billion FY2026 budget during a meeting on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, where protestors were escorted out after disruptions.
- Following an extensive deliberation lasting close to eight hours and amid protests opposing increased police funding and reductions to parks, health, and public works, the budget was approved by a 14-3 vote, highlighting concerns about the city's priorities and financial challenges.
- Key amendments included allocating $45 million to drainage and ditch maintenance, adding animal enforcement officers, and requiring reports on overtime, while the budget faced a projected $100 million shortfall covered by reserves.
- Mayor Whitmire described the budget plan as an innovative approach to improving city government efficiency, while City Controller Chris Hollins warned that the budget remains unbalanced and depends heavily on reserve funds to cover deficits.
- The budget's approval allows investments in public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life, especially in underserved areas, but also implies cuts to some services and ongoing financial challenges for Houston.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Houston City Council passes $7B budget amid protests, tax concerns and cuts
The Houston City Council approved the $7 billion FY 2025 budget in a 14-3 vote. Credit: Tannistha Sinha/Houston DefenderThe Houston City Council has approved Mayor John Whitmire’s $7 billion budget. Council members proposed more than 60 amendments that reflected their constituents’ concerns, ranging from public safety and nuisance abatement to fiscal accountability and animal control. While the administration supported several amendments, others…
Houston City Council approves $7B budget amid protests
HOUSTON (KIAH) — The Houston City Council passed a $7 billion budget on Wednesday following tense moments in the chamber. Protesters interrupted the meeting, demanding more action on flood drainage improvements. Law enforcement eventually closed the chamber to the public for the rest of the day. The final vote was 14 in favor and 3 against the new budget.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 78% of the sources are Center
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage
