The State of the City is Strong

HOUSTON – Mayor John Whitmire delivered his annual State of the City address before a sold-out audience of business and civic leaders, sharing a message focused on no new taxes, honest government that works, and a city that is strong.“Houston has challenges just like every major city. But we face them head on. Houston is strong, and we’re getting stronger every day. Stronger because we work together, in collaboration,” said the mayor.

This year’s program began with a celebration of the city’s cultural diversity. Mariachi Imperial performed, featuring Houston Police Officer Alvaro Olivera. The mayor also selected a special performance of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” by Rev. Michael Gott and vocalist Kenneth Gayle from Unity of Houston.

Mayor Whitmire recognized Unite Here Local 23 as his invited guests. The labor organization went on strike against the Hilton Hotel last year for higher wages. In support of organized labor members and their families, the mayor postponed his original State of the City address last September. “Thank you for what you do to help make this a great city, and to your co-workers providing the service today. These workers knew they would never walk alone. I was down at City Hall working, but I had their backs covered, and they knew it,” said Mayor Whitmire.

Mayor Whitmire with members of Unite Here Local 23

On the issues, Mayor Whitmire said during the State of the City that he is keeping his campaign commitment to fix Houston by:

Removing conflicts of interest, eliminating waste, duplication, and corruption
Balancing the budget without a tax increase
Adding more Houston Police and Fire Department recruits
Purchasing 54 new trucks and providing more resources for garbage pickup
Investing in neighborhood and pocket parks, including a planned transformation of Tranquillity Park with Downtown Houston+
Holding discussions about a possible METRO light rail connection to Bush Airport and future water taxi service on Buffalo Bayou.

Watch Mayor Whitmire’s full State of the City Address

On Infrastructure

Replacing at least 200 miles of water pipes per year
Paving 1,000 lane miles in 2026
Investing $500 million in drainage and road improvements
Coordinating with other agencies to improve Houston’s infrastructure
Preparing Houston to be a premier city for residents and visitors ahead of the World Cup

“We are increasing public safety and transportation and offering shuttles between downtown and the airports. We’re doing many things right in preparation for the World Cup. But, ladies and gentlemen, we have to treat Houstonians like they’re our World Cup visitors as well,” said Mayor Whitmire. “We’re making progress. That’s what I want to leave you with. I’m prepared to give six years, the remaining best years of my life to Houston, working 18-hour days with a team that is the best in America.”

The Greater Houston Partnership and Houston First Corporation sponsored the State of the City.