Houston Political Blog

....Slow.... blogging..

I'm out of town for a few days, so... slow... blogging...

....Slow.... blogging..

I'm out of town for a few days, so... slow... blogging...

The Road to "unity" snakes through H-town

Last night, when Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton took the stage in the Mayflower hotel in Washington, D.C.  There were more than a few Houstonians beaming... or smiling.. or writing a check, or all of the above.  Long time Clinton backer Sheila Jackson Lee was mentioned by name.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis (early Obama supporter) scrambled to get on an early morning flight to hang out in D.C. He was joined in the fun by Eileen and Case Lawal, big local donors.

Ellis' one word answer about the night? "Great."

Now, whether they can get Hillary and Barack to agree.. another matter.

The Road to "unity" snakes through H-town

Last night, when Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton took the stage in the Mayflower hotel in Washington, D.C.  There were more than a few Houstonians beaming... or smiling.. or writing a check, or all of the above.  Long time Clinton backer Sheila Jackson Lee was mentioned by name.  State Sen. Rodney Ellis (early Obama supporter) scrambled to get on an early morning flight to hang out in D.C. He was joined in the fun by Eileen and Case Lawal, big local donors.

Ellis' one word answer about the night? "Great."

Now, whether they can get Hillary and Barack to agree.. another matter.

Ouch... Will Jones face serious challenger?

City Council member Jolanda Jones got a tough critique from the Chron today:

"The first-term at-large council member's confrontational, grandstanding style has rubbed some of her colleagues the wrong way, upset the kumbaya collegiality cultivated on council by Mayor Bill White and led him to effectively neuter the housing committee he had entrusted Jones to lead."

It further fuels the rumblings that this first term council member might get a challenger next year.  City elections are every two years, with six year term limits.  Incumbents rarely get a serious challenger during those six years.. could that change for Jones?

Well, one possible at-large challenger says that's not the seat he wants.  Reached on the phone, former-and-maybe-future candidate George Hittner says he won't be running against Jones next year... though he does hint others want him to.  Instead, Hittner (son of Federal Judge David Hittner) is studying the at-large four seat currently occupied by Ronald Green.  Hittner, who looks younger than his already youngish years, have been spending time working in the Labor Department.  He'll be back soon enough, and a final decision on what seat he might run for is expected in a few months.

Ouch... Will Jones face serious challenger?

City Council member Jolanda Jones got a tough critique from the Chron today:

"The first-term at-large council member's confrontational, grandstanding style has rubbed some of her colleagues the wrong way, upset the kumbaya collegiality cultivated on council by Mayor Bill White and led him to effectively neuter the housing committee he had entrusted Jones to lead."

It further fuels the rumblings that this first term council member might get a challenger next year.  City elections are every two years, with six year term limits.  Incumbents rarely get a serious challenger during those six years.. could that change for Jones?

Well, one possible at-large challenger says that's not the seat he wants.  Reached on the phone, former-and-maybe-future candidate George Hittner says he won't be running against Jones next year... though he does hint others want him to.  Instead, Hittner (son of Federal Judge David Hittner) is studying the at-large four seat currently occupied by Ronald Green.  Hittner, who looks younger than his already youngish years, have been spending time working in the Labor Department.  He'll be back soon enough, and a final decision on what seat he might run for is expected in a few months.

How to find your airport tiers

If you are wondering if you live in one of those newly approved airport Tiers, the Houston Airport System has a website set up just for you.  Of course, if you were Council Member James Rodriguez, then you would already know that you live in a tiers.  What is a tiers? Click on the graphics for the details.  Here is the link to the search tool where you can just type in your address.

How to find your airport tiers

If you are wondering if you live in one of those newly approved airport Tiers, the Houston Airport System has a website set up just for you.  Of course, if you were Council Member James Rodriguez, then you would already know that you live in a tiers.  What is a tiers? Click on the graphics for the details.  Here is the link to the search tool where you can just type in your address.

Houston pastor starts new political website

Via Politico, Houston Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell is leading a new website that pits him against James Dobson.  Caldwell, of course, isn't exactly new to politics.  He did officiate at Jenna Bush's wedding recently, among other things.  So, I guess he's working across party lines!

Houston pastor starts new political website

Via Politico, Houston Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell is leading a new website that pits him against James Dobson.  Caldwell, of course, isn't exactly new to politics.  He did officiate at Jenna Bush's wedding recently, among other things.  So, I guess he's working across party lines!

When is it a good day for a lobbyist?

... When you have an item on a City Council agenda.. and nobody shows up!  Such is the scene this morning at City Council, a very empty chamber.  It comes after a very long few weeks at City Hall.  There was the unending Metro struggle, the budget that was passed, and a few other issues have dragged council members and their staffers through some very, very long hours.  Today, there is a visible sense of a lighter schedule now that the two big issues are over.  The main discussion today, is the airport's tiers development schedule.  The Continental folks are here, so the sight of an empty chamber must make them feel relieved!

When is it a good day for a lobbyist?

... When you have an item on a City Council agenda.. and nobody shows up!  Such is the scene this morning at City Council, a very empty chamber.  It comes after a very long few weeks at City Hall.  There was the unending Metro struggle, the budget that was passed, and a few other issues have dragged council members and their staffers through some very, very long hours.  Today, there is a visible sense of a lighter schedule now that the two big issues are over.  The main discussion today, is the airport's tiers development schedule.  The Continental folks are here, so the sight of an empty chamber must make them feel relieved!

Birds vs. big houses: the sanctuary question

Look, we are a Sanctuary City:  for birds!  Earlier today, City Council and the Parks department was put on the spot as to why homeowners who live along the Bird Sanctuary near Memorial Park are basically allowed to use the sanctuary as their own backyard.  Mainly, there are about a dozen homes whose own lawn shares a border line with the sanctuary.  One of the women who actually lives there is complaining her some of her neighbors are mowing the grass, and putting up a hammock in what is technically city property.  Instead of respecting land deeded by the Hogg Foundation, the neighbors are using the land as their own property.. for free.. forget the birds.  As you can imagine, some folks are not so happy about it.. and demanding that the Parks department do a little more than just send angry letters and putting up "do not mow" signs....  Will that happen? Well first, the city is trying to figure out whether to let some of the sanctuary be used to hold some construction equipment.

Birds vs. big houses: the sanctuary question

Look, we are a Sanctuary City:  for birds!  Earlier today, City Council and the Parks department was put on the spot as to why homeowners who live along the Bird Sanctuary near Memorial Park are basically allowed to use the sanctuary as their own backyard.  Mainly, there are about a dozen homes whose own lawn shares a border line with the sanctuary.  One of the women who actually lives there is complaining her some of her neighbors are mowing the grass, and putting up a hammock in what is technically city property.  Instead of respecting land deeded by the Hogg Foundation, the neighbors are using the land as their own property.. for free.. forget the birds.  As you can imagine, some folks are not so happy about it.. and demanding that the Parks department do a little more than just send angry letters and putting up "do not mow" signs....  Will that happen? Well first, the city is trying to figure out whether to let some of the sanctuary be used to hold some construction equipment.

What tiers are you in?

The Houston City Council is set to vote on an Airport development plan this week.  Otherwise known as Compatible Land Use, it will divide neighborhoods surrounding Hobby and Bush into "tiers." The idea is to prevent developers from building apartments and homes this-close to airports.  It will hopefully prevent some of the painful lawsuits, buy-outs, and noise complaints that's already going on.

I just checked the airport's website, and the maps of these Tiers are not up yet.. but should be soon.  When I did the story on this about a month or so ago, people seemed to think that a long term plan is well, long overdue.  It should pass this week, but with City Council.. you never know how much arguing will go on before it happens!

What tiers are you in?

The Houston City Council is set to vote on an Airport development plan this week.  Otherwise known as Compatible Land Use, it will divide neighborhoods surrounding Hobby and Bush into "tiers." The idea is to prevent developers from building apartments and homes this-close to airports.  It will hopefully prevent some of the painful lawsuits, buy-outs, and noise complaints that's already going on.

I just checked the airport's website, and the maps of these Tiers are not up yet.. but should be soon.  When I did the story on this about a month or so ago, people seemed to think that a long term plan is well, long overdue.  It should pass this week, but with City Council.. you never know how much arguing will go on before it happens!

Feeling the heat at City Hall!

Construction crews digging near Heritage Plaza hit a large, 24 inch water line last night.  As a result, there is no water and no air conditioning at City Hall, City Hall Annex, and the main Public Library.  We showed up this morning to take some video, and the crews working on that tunnel were not too happy to see us! (Surprise, surprise.) 

Anyway, the downtown library is closed for the day, and lots  of people were being turned away.  Meanwhile, at the City Hall Annex, most of the staffers left a bit early, but not Anna Russell! The City Secretary and her staff sat outside and worked.  At the main city hall building, workers brought in a "comfort station" aka port-a-potties!  However, the engineers got some temporary water inside, around 11 a.m. and people were able to ahem.. flush.

Still, I wouldn't recommend trying to driver near Bagby and Dallas this weekend. It's a mess!

Feeling the heat at City Hall!

Construction crews digging near Heritage Plaza hit a large, 24 inch water line last night.  As a result, there is no water and no air conditioning at City Hall, City Hall Annex, and the main Public Library.  We showed up this morning to take some video, and the crews working on that tunnel were not too happy to see us! (Surprise, surprise.) 

Anyway, the downtown library is closed for the day, and lots  of people were being turned away.  Meanwhile, at the City Hall Annex, most of the staffers left a bit early, but not Anna Russell! The City Secretary and her staff sat outside and worked.  At the main city hall building, workers brought in a "comfort station" aka port-a-potties!  However, the engineers got some temporary water inside, around 11 a.m. and people were able to ahem.. flush.

Still, I wouldn't recommend trying to driver near Bagby and Dallas this weekend. It's a mess!

Another Busy day for METRO

And this time.. It wasn't METRO's doing!  I was driving on my way to work when I got a call to  head directly to an accident at Hadley and Webster.  Apparently, a woman driving her van didn't stop at a stop sign and ran into a METRO bus.  The bus then careened into the new car storage lot of Advantage BMW.  Fifteen people were transported to the hospital, and a lot of cars will be heading to the body shop.

Another Busy day for METRO

And this time.. It wasn't METRO's doing!  I was driving on my way to work when I got a call to  head directly to an accident at Hadley and Webster.  Apparently, a woman driving her van didn't stop at a stop sign and ran into a METRO bus.  The bus then careened into the new car storage lot of Advantage BMW.  Fifteen people were transported to the hospital, and a lot of cars will be heading to the body shop.

Council passes METRO consent agenda..

After years of discussion, sometimes painfully slow, the Houston Council has finally passed the METRO consent agreement.  Finally.  Council members Mike Sullivan and Jolanda Jones voted no.  Ground breaking?  June 27th.

Council passes METRO consent agenda..

After years of discussion, sometimes painfully slow, the Houston Council has finally passed the METRO consent agreement.  Finally.  Council members Mike Sullivan and Jolanda Jones voted no.  Ground breaking?  June 27th.

METRO cops bug reporter, METRO vote today

Okay, by now I've done my bazillionth METRO story... and today is no exception, with METRO big wigs crawling all through City Hall.  I wonder where they were last weekend, when.. working on Father's Day, we attempted to do a METRO story.  Guess what happened?  METRO cops tried to kick us off of the Light Rail!

Imagine this:  My photographer and I are at the Medical Center station, interviewing people who ride METRO everyday... about the need for more public transit.  Now, there were a few questionable individuals at the station, but they didn't exactly work of the TV station.  Nonetheless, two METRO employees showed up, telling us we had to "get off  the platform, for our own safety." Uh.. right!

Then, a few minutes later, truly sensing the threat that a TV camera and a reporter might pose, two METRO cops showed up! So, there are a total of FOUR METRO employees, making sure we stay off the platform!  Never-mind there was a panhandler and few other more "dangerous" characters on the platform.. geez... Next time, we wouldn't be able to stand next to a bus stop!

METRO cops bug reporter, METRO vote today

Okay, by now I've done my bazillionth METRO story... and today is no exception, with METRO big wigs crawling all through City Hall.  I wonder where they were last weekend, when.. working on Father's Day, we attempted to do a METRO story.  Guess what happened?  METRO cops tried to kick us off of the Light Rail!

Imagine this:  My photographer and I are at the Medical Center station, interviewing people who ride METRO everyday... about the need for more public transit.  Now, there were a few questionable individuals at the station, but they didn't exactly work of the TV station.  Nonetheless, two METRO employees showed up, telling us we had to "get off  the platform, for our own safety." Uh.. right!

Then, a few minutes later, truly sensing the threat that a TV camera and a reporter might pose, two METRO cops showed up! So, there are a total of FOUR METRO employees, making sure we stay off the platform!  Never-mind there was a panhandler and few other more "dangerous" characters on the platform.. geez... Next time, we wouldn't be able to stand next to a bus stop!

Scenes from John McCain's Speech

Take a look at a few photos of Sen. John McCain's appearance at the Hilton Americas Hotel this afternoon.  I'll have a summary of what he said later.. but enjoy this when you have a chance.

Scenes from John McCain's Speech

Take a look at a few photos of Sen. John McCain's appearance at the Hilton Americas Hotel this afternoon.  I'll have a summary of what he said later.. but enjoy this when you have a chance.

McCain in Town today!

Sen. John McCain will headline an event at the Hilton Americas this afternoon.  The speech that will touch on energy, economy and so forth will take place at 4pm.  That's nice and all, but the real deal is taking place at 2:30pm.  That's when McCain is holding a closed door fundraiser also at the Hilton.  Pony up the dough, and you don't have to hang out with us, annoying press corps in the main ballroom!

McCain in Town today!

Sen. John McCain will headline an event at the Hilton Americas this afternoon.  The speech that will touch on energy, economy and so forth will take place at 4pm.  That's nice and all, but the real deal is taking place at 2:30pm.  That's when McCain is holding a closed door fundraiser also at the Hilton.  Pony up the dough, and you don't have to hang out with us, annoying press corps in the main ballroom!

Cornyn vs. Noriega: in Video!

Okay, so the Statesman gets the credit for pointing this out.. but I thought I'd post it here because.. it's well... entertaining.  Both Sen. John Cornyn and State Rep. Rick Noriega were cheered and applauded at their respective State Conventions.  As if there was any doub that the two guys are... um.. very different, check out their introduction videos! One is "Big John" the other is more like "Colonel."  Either way, fun watching!

Cornyn vs. Noriega: in Video!

Okay, so the Statesman gets the credit for pointing this out.. but I thought I'd post it here because.. it's well... entertaining.  Both Sen. John Cornyn and State Rep. Rick Noriega were cheered and applauded at their respective State Conventions.  As if there was any doub that the two guys are... um.. very different, check out their introduction videos! One is "Big John" the other is more like "Colonel."  Either way, fun watching!

Kmart Raid: The Cost!

This week, the Houston City Council is set to pay out $257,500 and $474,117 in the infamous Kmart raid of 2002.  The settlements covers attorney's fees, and 93 plaintiffs.  The litigants in this case will get settlements ranging from $2,500 to $5,000.  Attorney's fees for the two separate settlements  are around $360,000.  I've uploaded a sample of the payouts and other documents associated with the settlement.  Click to enlarge!

Kmart Raid: The Cost!

This week, the Houston City Council is set to pay out $257,500 and $474,117 in the infamous Kmart raid of 2002.  The settlements covers attorney's fees, and 93 plaintiffs.  The litigants in this case will get settlements ranging from $2,500 to $5,000.  Attorney's fees for the two separate settlements  are around $360,000.  I've uploaded a sample of the payouts and other documents associated with the settlement.  Click to enlarge!

Tim Russert dies of apparent heart attack

Tim Russert, NBC News' Washington bureau chief and a veteran journalist known for posing hard-hitting questions to America's leading politicians and newsmakers, collapsed and died Friday while at work in Washington. He was 58 years old.

(ABC News)

Russert, best known as the moderator of NBC News' "Meet the Press," joined the network in 1984 after working as an aide to New York Sen. Patrick Moynihan.

In his 24 years at the network, Russert worked as a political analyst for "Nightly News" and the Today" show and served as the NBC News' Washington bureau chief.

The longest-running host in the history of the "Meet The Press," Russert took the helm in 1991, earning a reputation for asking his guests tough questions, often playing them previous statements they had made that contradicted comments or positions they professed to have.

In 2005, he was awarded an Emmy for his role in the coverage of the funeral of President Reagan.

Tim Russert dies of apparent heart attack

Tim Russert, NBC News' Washington bureau chief and a veteran journalist known for posing hard-hitting questions to America's leading politicians and newsmakers, collapsed and died Friday while at work in Washington. He was 58 years old.

(ABC News)

Russert, best known as the moderator of NBC News' "Meet the Press," joined the network in 1984 after working as an aide to New York Sen. Patrick Moynihan.

In his 24 years at the network, Russert worked as a political analyst for "Nightly News" and the Today" show and served as the NBC News' Washington bureau chief.

The longest-running host in the history of the "Meet The Press," Russert took the helm in 1991, earning a reputation for asking his guests tough questions, often playing them previous statements they had made that contradicted comments or positions they professed to have.

In 2005, he was awarded an Emmy for his role in the coverage of the funeral of President Reagan.

Airport, Continental agree: expansion continues..

Earlier today, I attended a long planned luncheon hosted by Friends of the Airport, in which the expansion of Terminal B at IAH was discussed.  The timing of course, came just as Continental was announcing its full scale of cutbacks.  Still, Richard Vacar, director of the Houston Airport Systems, said the long-planned expansion will continue.

The expansion is expected to take place over the course of the next five to seven years.  The terminal will mainly service Continental, including international routes, and some regional.

Vacar did say that he's had assurances from Continental that it would continue on with the planned expansion... despite of the cutbacks.  There were a few Continental folks in the room, and nobody jumped up and disagreed.  Vacar also said that he believes this shows Continental has a strong "long term outlook" of the Houston Airport System.  No one at the presentation had a chance to look at the specific cutback numbers before the presentation, but they did emphasis the continued confidence in the airline, and HAS.

Here's hoping the expansion will include more parking spaces.

Airport, Continental agree: expansion continues..

Earlier today, I attended a long planned luncheon hosted by Friends of the Airport, in which the expansion of Terminal B at IAH was discussed.  The timing of course, came just as Continental was announcing its full scale of cutbacks.  Still, Richard Vacar, director of the Houston Airport Systems, said the long-planned expansion will continue.

The expansion is expected to take place over the course of the next five to seven years.  The terminal will mainly service Continental, including international routes, and some regional.

Vacar did say that he's had assurances from Continental that it would continue on with the planned expansion... despite of the cutbacks.  There were a few Continental folks in the room, and nobody jumped up and disagreed.  Vacar also said that he believes this shows Continental has a strong "long term outlook" of the Houston Airport System.  No one at the presentation had a chance to look at the specific cutback numbers before the presentation, but they did emphasis the continued confidence in the airline, and HAS.

Here's hoping the expansion will include more parking spaces.

Republicans taking over the GRB!

Last week, the Democrats descended on Austin for their state rally party.  Now, it's the Republicans turn... and it's oh-so-much-closer.  The politicking will take place inside the GRB.. but the real deals will be handled at the Grove or the Lobby Lounge inside the Hilton... at least that's my theory.  The big shindig will be the Gala tomorrow night, where a number of bold name Republicans (KBH, Newt, etc..) will be in attendence.  I'll tote my camera along and see if I can catch some quality pics...

Republicans taking over the GRB!

Last week, the Democrats descended on Austin for their state rally party.  Now, it's the Republicans turn... and it's oh-so-much-closer.  The politicking will take place inside the GRB.. but the real deals will be handled at the Grove or the Lobby Lounge inside the Hilton... at least that's my theory.  The big shindig will be the Gala tomorrow night, where a number of bold name Republicans (KBH, Newt, etc..) will be in attendence.  I'll tote my camera along and see if I can catch some quality pics...

METRO consent agreement tagged

After two hours of discussion, and a bit of back and forth between some not-so-happy council members, the METRO agreement was tagged for next week.  Looks like METRO will have to reschedule its ground breaking ceremony!

METRO consent agreement tagged

After two hours of discussion, and a bit of back and forth between some not-so-happy council members, the METRO agreement was tagged for next week.  Looks like METRO will have to reschedule its ground breaking ceremony!

Blakemore's new client... Furse vs. Bell?

Yesterday, reliable GOP consultant Allen Blakemore rolled out his first news release for the seat of former State Sen. Kyle Janek... Austen Furse, the conservative!  Here's part of the release:

“I am pleased to announce the endorsement of two stalwarts of the conservative movement in Texas – Steve Hotze and Tim Lambert.  These two fine gentlemen have demonstrated their adherence to the conservative principles of the Party and worked tirelessly to promote conservative values.  I am humbled by these endorsements,” Furse said. “

Much speculation has been made that Furse will face perennial Dem. candidate Chris Bell for the State Sen. 17 special election.  Now, most people have known Bell for a while, having been a City Council member, a Congressman, and ran for a list of other public offices (Mayor, Congress, Governor...)

But who is Austen Furse?  Interestingly, if you type his name into Google (which I tend to do with every person I meet) the first thing that pops up is an 1997 marriage announcement in the New York Times,  it's a more fun read than the press release:

Anne Goff Seel, who was until last month the executive director of the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, was married yesterday to Austen Henry Furse 3d, the owner of Matagorda Capital, an investment company in Houston. The Rev. David F. Sellery performed the Episcopal ceremony at St. Thomas Church in New York.

Mrs. Furse, 35, and Mr. Furse, 36, graduated from Yale University, she cum laude... From 1989 to 1993, Mr. Furse was the assistant director and then the director of White House policy planning under President George Bush. The bridegroom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Furse Jr. of Austin, Tex. His father retired as an assistant attorney general of Texas in Austin. The bridegroom's mother, Margaret Furse, retired as a professor of American studies at the University of Texas in Austin.

Blakemore's new client... Furse vs. Bell?

Yesterday, reliable GOP consultant Allen Blakemore rolled out his first news release for the seat of former State Sen. Kyle Janek... Austen Furse, the conservative!  Here's part of the release:

“I am pleased to announce the endorsement of two stalwarts of the conservative movement in Texas – Steve Hotze and Tim Lambert.  These two fine gentlemen have demonstrated their adherence to the conservative principles of the Party and worked tirelessly to promote conservative values.  I am humbled by these endorsements,” Furse said. “

Much speculation has been made that Furse will face perennial Dem. candidate Chris Bell for the State Sen. 17 special election.  Now, most people have known Bell for a while, having been a City Council member, a Congressman, and ran for a list of other public offices (Mayor, Congress, Governor...)

But who is Austen Furse?  Interestingly, if you type his name into Google (which I tend to do with every person I meet) the first thing that pops up is an 1997 marriage announcement in the New York Times,  it's a more fun read than the press release:

Anne Goff Seel, who was until last month the executive director of the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission, was married yesterday to Austen Henry Furse 3d, the owner of Matagorda Capital, an investment company in Houston. The Rev. David F. Sellery performed the Episcopal ceremony at St. Thomas Church in New York.

Mrs. Furse, 35, and Mr. Furse, 36, graduated from Yale University, she cum laude... From 1989 to 1993, Mr. Furse was the assistant director and then the director of White House policy planning under President George Bush. The bridegroom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Furse Jr. of Austin, Tex. His father retired as an assistant attorney general of Texas in Austin. The bridegroom's mother, Margaret Furse, retired as a professor of American studies at the University of Texas in Austin.

METRO vote this morning! (and the Mayor's memo)

Frank Wilson, who got a lot of heat from Council Member Ronald Green just yesterday, is among a host of METRO folks at City Hall today.. looking for the passage of the METRO consent agreement.

All sides are trying get this through without tagging.  Let's not forget that yesterday, the Mayor sent out a detailed memo on this yesterday:

From:   Mayor Bill White
Sent:   Tuesday, June 10, 2008 11:23 AM Central Standard Time

Subject:        Consent Agreement

[HANDWRITTEN BUT NOT PROOFED]

I write to all Council Members at the request of a Council Member concerning certain issues in the Consent Agreement.

1.      The consent agreement does envision the need for various permits by the City in accordance with City codes and standards.  The Public Works and Engineering Department will ensure compliance with these requirements.

2.      The City of Houston and its TIRZs will take the principal responsibility for any enhancements over standard for landscaping, sidewalks, and crosswalks.  Please be aware that enhancements will need to be part of some budget or CIP process, and there are also physical limits on existing rights of way that can require contentious tradeoffs (e.g., auto lanes versus sidewalks versus landscaping.)  Dr. Carol Lewis, chair of the Planning Commission, and Director Marcotte shall finalize a structure involving representatives of Planning, PWE, and METRO to analyze streetscape improvements. 

3.      The Planning Department funded an Urban Corridors Plan for all six corridors.  Recommendations for five of the six will be released very soon and will be a useful tool in defining the streetscape elements for every line.  Our planning will ensure that all corridors are addressed, both within and outside of various TIRZs or management districts.  Of course, we must consider the costs and tradeoffs as part of a normal CIP and TIRZ budgeting process.

4.      I urge elected officials to help us communicate to various neighborhood groups that issues which affect either cost to METRO or ridership must ultimately be decided by METRO, since ultimately a decrease in ridership or an increase in cost means that we could jeopardize our federal funding priority.  As one example, the locations of stations can affect both the speed and frequency of trains, which has a large impact on consumers (ridership).  Concerns about streetscape and traffic impacts are very reasonable and proper concerns for the City of Houston, and I commit to address them.   At the same time, if we agree that the expansion of mass transit is our goal, we need to allow METRO to do its job, which is to build cost-effective light rail that will provide efficient service to the most people.

5.      City Council will have regular briefings on various aspects of METRO's plans, investments, and operations.  Frank Wilson responded in writing to such a request at a Council committee, and I am confident that these periodic hearings will occur.

6.      The City of Houston competes with other areas within the METRO service area for funding.  We are not "doing a favor" by letting our transit authority invest funds to give our citizens more options.  Also, a consent for METRO to invest is not an endorsement of any particular plan.

BILL WHITE
MAYOR

METRO vote this morning! (and the Mayor's memo)

Frank Wilson, who got a lot of heat from Council Member Ronald Green just yesterday, is among a host of METRO folks at City Hall today.. looking for the passage of the METRO consent agreement.

All sides are trying get this through without tagging.  Let's not forget that yesterday, the Mayor sent out a detailed memo on this yesterday:

From:   Mayor Bill White
Sent:   Tuesday, June 10, 2008 11:23 AM Central Standard Time

Subject:        Consent Agreement

[HANDWRITTEN BUT NOT PROOFED]

I write to all Council Members at the request of a Council Member concerning certain issues in the Consent Agreement.

1.      The consent agreement does envision the need for various permits by the City in accordance with City codes and standards.  The Public Works and Engineering Department will ensure compliance with these requirements.

2.      The City of Houston and its TIRZs will take the principal responsibility for any enhancements over standard for landscaping, sidewalks, and crosswalks.  Please be aware that enhancements will need to be part of some budget or CIP process, and there are also physical limits on existing rights of way that can require contentious tradeoffs (e.g., auto lanes versus sidewalks versus landscaping.)  Dr. Carol Lewis, chair of the Planning Commission, and Director Marcotte shall finalize a structure involving representatives of Planning, PWE, and METRO to analyze streetscape improvements. 

3.      The Planning Department funded an Urban Corridors Plan for all six corridors.  Recommendations for five of the six will be released very soon and will be a useful tool in defining the streetscape elements for every line.  Our planning will ensure that all corridors are addressed, both within and outside of various TIRZs or management districts.  Of course, we must consider the costs and tradeoffs as part of a normal CIP and TIRZ budgeting process.

4.      I urge elected officials to help us communicate to various neighborhood groups that issues which affect either cost to METRO or ridership must ultimately be decided by METRO, since ultimately a decrease in ridership or an increase in cost means that we could jeopardize our federal funding priority.  As one example, the locations of stations can affect both the speed and frequency of trains, which has a large impact on consumers (ridership).  Concerns about streetscape and traffic impacts are very reasonable and proper concerns for the City of Houston, and I commit to address them.   At the same time, if we agree that the expansion of mass transit is our goal, we need to allow METRO to do its job, which is to build cost-effective light rail that will provide efficient service to the most people.

5.      City Council will have regular briefings on various aspects of METRO's plans, investments, and operations.  Frank Wilson responded in writing to such a request at a Council committee, and I am confident that these periodic hearings will occur.

6.      The City of Houston competes with other areas within the METRO service area for funding.  We are not "doing a favor" by letting our transit authority invest funds to give our citizens more options.  Also, a consent for METRO to invest is not an endorsement of any particular plan.

BILL WHITE
MAYOR

The Guv's mansion: What's left

The Governor's office today released photos of the extensive damage inside the mansion.  While the investigation into who set the fire continues, the pictures show the true scope of the damage.  The Governor's office loaded everything on to Picasa, click here for a link.

The Guv's mansion: What's left

The Governor's office today released photos of the extensive damage inside the mansion.  While the investigation into who set the fire continues, the pictures show the true scope of the damage.  The Governor's office loaded everything on to Picasa, click here for a link.

Gas prices.. just how high is too high?

The national average price for gasoline is now more than $4 a gallon. Drivers around the country and here in Houston are feeling the pinch. And it's going to get worse.
Analysts say prices could hit $4.40 a gallon in the upcoming weeks. Some people in Houston are already making drastic decisions, including Ashley Rodriguez and her fiancée Tony Chavez. Watch the story here.

"I want to save money for my wedding, but with gas prices, it's like I'll never have my wedding, it's pretty horrible."

Her situation is devastating for the young couple, but not surprising to Matthew Simmons. As founder of Simmons & Company International, an energy investment banking company. He's been writing and talking about a worldwide oil shortage for years and says we could be on the cusp of a major crises.  "We are right on the bubble of having the lowest amount of usable gas and diesel in the United States," he said. "All we need is the threat of shortages and everyone will top of their tanks, and we'll drain the gasoline supply."

Even with that dire prediction, Simmons says gas in America is still a bargain. To prove that point, he plans to reimburse his employees a dollar a gallon for the gas they use to commute to work.   "That basically works out to be $80 a year (per employee)," he said.  He also points out that comparably, gas is about 21 cents a cup.

Simmons doesn't really buy all those promises you hear from oil experts and politicians, either.  He says oil prices are going to continue to go up, and there is little we can do about it.  "I'm just a realist," Simmons said. He says the only options to make up for the rising prices are to travel less or grow food at home. Cheerful!

Gas prices.. just how high is too high?

The national average price for gasoline is now more than $4 a gallon. Drivers around the country and here in Houston are feeling the pinch. And it's going to get worse.
Analysts say prices could hit $4.40 a gallon in the upcoming weeks. Some people in Houston are already making drastic decisions, including Ashley Rodriguez and her fiancée Tony Chavez. Watch the story here.

"I want to save money for my wedding, but with gas prices, it's like I'll never have my wedding, it's pretty horrible."

Her situation is devastating for the young couple, but not surprising to Matthew Simmons. As founder of Simmons & Company International, an energy investment banking company. He's been writing and talking about a worldwide oil shortage for years and says we could be on the cusp of a major crises.  "We are right on the bubble of having the lowest amount of usable gas and diesel in the United States," he said. "All we need is the threat of shortages and everyone will top of their tanks, and we'll drain the gasoline supply."

Even with that dire prediction, Simmons says gas in America is still a bargain. To prove that point, he plans to reimburse his employees a dollar a gallon for the gas they use to commute to work.   "That basically works out to be $80 a year (per employee)," he said.  He also points out that comparably, gas is about 21 cents a cup.

Simmons doesn't really buy all those promises you hear from oil experts and politicians, either.  He says oil prices are going to continue to go up, and there is little we can do about it.  "I'm just a realist," Simmons said. He says the only options to make up for the rising prices are to travel less or grow food at home. Cheerful!

The Guv comments on the Gov's Mansion

After that horrific weekend arson fire that severely damaged the Governor's Mansion, Gov. Rick Perry and his wife issued the following statement:

"We are heartbroken by the fire that has ravaged the Texas Governor’s Mansion. It has not only been our home for the past eight years, but has stood as a symbol of Texas pride throughout its history. Though it can certainly be rebuilt, what Texas has lost today can never be replaced."

"We are grateful to all the fire fighters who worked heroically to save this historic landmark and Texas treasure. And like all Texans, we hope that this remarkable building, which has served as the home for our family and other Texas governors’ for the last 150 years, can be saved and restored."

The Guv comments on the Gov's Mansion

After that horrific weekend arson fire that severely damaged the Governor's Mansion, Gov. Rick Perry and his wife issued the following statement:

"We are heartbroken by the fire that has ravaged the Texas Governor’s Mansion. It has not only been our home for the past eight years, but has stood as a symbol of Texas pride throughout its history. Though it can certainly be rebuilt, what Texas has lost today can never be replaced."

"We are grateful to all the fire fighters who worked heroically to save this historic landmark and Texas treasure. And like all Texans, we hope that this remarkable building, which has served as the home for our family and other Texas governors’ for the last 150 years, can be saved and restored."

Images from the Convention... !

I snapped some photos using my brand new camera in the last 24 hours or so in Austin.  I've made a little slideshow... see if you see yourself, or someone you know.  So far, the convention has been a fast paced, go there, dash here, sort of thing for the media.  I've been interested in seeing all the Hillary and Obama supporters still so passionate about both candidates.  Chelsea Clinton is making an appearance tonight, so that should be very interesting!  How will the rest of the convention go? I can't wait to find out who from our area will be heading to Denver.

Want the high quality picture of your smiling face? Leave me a comment with email info. Enjoy!

Images from the Convention... !

I snapped some photos using my brand new camera in the last 24 hours or so in Austin.  I've made a little slideshow... see if you see yourself, or someone you know.  So far, the convention has been a fast paced, go there, dash here, sort of thing for the media.  I've been interested in seeing all the Hillary and Obama supporters still so passionate about both candidates.  Chelsea Clinton is making an appearance tonight, so that should be very interesting!  How will the rest of the convention go? I can't wait to find out who from our area will be heading to Denver.

Want the high quality picture of your smiling face? Leave me a comment with email info. Enjoy!

.. A funny thing happened on the way to the Convention..

Thanks to Bob Martin, accountant to the stars, for capturing a very enthusiastic Obama supporter wanting to show his pride on live television.

The crowd's gathering in Austin!

The Texas Dems are showing up in droves.  Both Clinton and Obama supporters are here, with gear in hand.  The Clinton gals are dressed in pink, the Obama folks got their hats.  The meetings are long, and plenty of Houston people are in town.  Tonight, there is a joint Obama-Hillary bar crawl, in the spirit of party unity... so to speak!  And the real convention doesn't even start until tomorrow!

The crowd's gathering in Austin!

The Texas Dems are showing up in droves.  Both Clinton and Obama supporters are here, with gear in hand.  The Clinton gals are dressed in pink, the Obama folks got their hats.  The meetings are long, and plenty of Houston people are in town.  Tonight, there is a joint Obama-Hillary bar crawl, in the spirit of party unity... so to speak!  And the real convention doesn't even start until tomorrow!

Convention Time!

Alright, the Texas Democratic Party's convention doesn't officially start until tomorrow.. but that's not stopping thousands of Dems from heading to Austin today. They are more invigorated than years past, considering it's been not so pretty for Dems in Texas for a while. But this year, things are looking different.  With Obama on the top of the ticket, the Dems, especially in urban areas like Harris County, are looking for a tide turner.  Rick Noriega's bid in the Senate is also drawing some interest.

But, alas, the convention folks are banning the press from the opening reception.  Have no fear, though, I do have a new camera, and will be doing my best to capture the moments!

Now.. If we can just get there in one piece.

Convention Time!

Alright, the Texas Democratic Party's convention doesn't officially start until tomorrow.. but that's not stopping thousands of Dems from heading to Austin today. They are more invigorated than years past, considering it's been not so pretty for Dems in Texas for a while. But this year, things are looking different.  With Obama on the top of the ticket, the Dems, especially in urban areas like Harris County, are looking for a tide turner.  Rick Noriega's bid in the Senate is also drawing some interest.

But, alas, the convention folks are banning the press from the opening reception.  Have no fear, though, I do have a new camera, and will be doing my best to capture the moments!

Now.. If we can just get there in one piece.

Harris Co. Dems: the Obama Coat Tail?

We sat down with Harris Co. Dem. Party Chair Gerry Birnberg today, to see how this Obama-Clinton thing is playing down-ballot here in H-town.  The first thing he said as soon as we sat down, "It's over! That's the thing, it's over! Time for reconciliation."  Of course, everything is easier said than done in politics.  Birnberg is expecting big things for the Dems in Harris County, even though recent history would leave some Dems not so optimistic.

"We're going to need 600,000 voters in November to win Harris County," he said.  "We already had 410,000 votes in the Democratic primary so we know where they are, that's a tremendous wind on our back."

Birnberg also mentioned that he would love to see an Obama-Clinton ticket.  He also mused, however, that the real strategy for Harris Co. Dems was putting Rick Noriega in the Senate race.  Birnberg said that even though it will be an uphill battle for Noriega, his presence on the ballot should bring none traditional voters to the polls.

Harris Co. Dems: the Obama Coat Tail?

We sat down with Harris Co. Dem. Party Chair Gerry Birnberg today, to see how this Obama-Clinton thing is playing down-ballot here in H-town.  The first thing he said as soon as we sat down, "It's over! That's the thing, it's over! Time for reconciliation."  Of course, everything is easier said than done in politics.  Birnberg is expecting big things for the Dems in Harris County, even though recent history would leave some Dems not so optimistic.

"We're going to need 600,000 voters in November to win Harris County," he said.  "We already had 410,000 votes in the Democratic primary so we know where they are, that's a tremendous wind on our back."

Birnberg also mentioned that he would love to see an Obama-Clinton ticket.  He also mused, however, that the real strategy for Harris Co. Dems was putting Rick Noriega in the Senate race.  Birnberg said that even though it will be an uphill battle for Noriega, his presence on the ballot should bring none traditional voters to the polls.

Obama Clinches nomination

From ABC News: 

Based on the preliminary exit polls and our reporting, ABC News projects Sen. Barack Obama will have enough delegates to secure the Democratic nomination after the votes from the final primary contests are counted tonight.

Obama, D-Ill., has 13 of the 2,118 delegates needed to clinch the Democratic nomination for president and is expected to win an additional number of delegates in the final primary contests and further superdelegate endorsements Tuesday.

Making history by becoming the nation's first African-American major party presidential nominee, Obama, emerges victorious from one of the longest and most closely found Democratic nomination fights in recent history.

Deliveriing a popular message of hope and change, Obama's insurgent candidacy inspired record-breaking campaign contributions, record turnout by black voters, and wide support from independents, liberals, young voters, and high-income, better-educated Democrats.

As the last day of a grueling five-month Democratic primary battle fight came to a close, Sen. HIllary Rodham Clinton watched as the delegate count mounted for her opponent and told fellow New York lawmakers that she is open to being Obama's vice presidential candidate if he asks.

Clinton, once considered the likely nominee and vying to become the party's first female presidential nominee, spent much of the afternoon calling major donors and supporters and from her home in Chappaqua, N.Y., in a last-ditch effort to gauge her support.

Speaking with her supporters she said she is "open" to being Sen. Barack Obama's vice presidential candidate if he asks, a source on the call told ABC News' Rick Klein.

Obama is poised to pick up some of the 31 pledged delegates at stake in today's final primary contests in Montana and South Dakota, and has gained the support of many superdelegates over the last 24 hours.

"We've known for the last couple of months that even though Obama emerged as the front-runner, he was not going to be able to secure the nomination without the support of superdelegates," said Nathan Gonzales, political editor of the Rothenberg Political Report.

Obama Clinches nomination

From ABC News: 

Based on the preliminary exit polls and our reporting, ABC News projects Sen. Barack Obama will have enough delegates to secure the Democratic nomination after the votes from the final primary contests are counted tonight.

Obama, D-Ill., has 13 of the 2,118 delegates needed to clinch the Democratic nomination for president and is expected to win an additional number of delegates in the final primary contests and further superdelegate endorsements Tuesday.

Making history by becoming the nation's first African-American major party presidential nominee, Obama, emerges victorious from one of the longest and most closely found Democratic nomination fights in recent history.

Deliveriing a popular message of hope and change, Obama's insurgent candidacy inspired record-breaking campaign contributions, record turnout by black voters, and wide support from independents, liberals, young voters, and high-income, better-educated Democrats.

As the last day of a grueling five-month Democratic primary battle fight came to a close, Sen. HIllary Rodham Clinton watched as the delegate count mounted for her opponent and told fellow New York lawmakers that she is open to being Obama's vice presidential candidate if he asks.

Clinton, once considered the likely nominee and vying to become the party's first female presidential nominee, spent much of the afternoon calling major donors and supporters and from her home in Chappaqua, N.Y., in a last-ditch effort to gauge her support.

Speaking with her supporters she said she is "open" to being Sen. Barack Obama's vice presidential candidate if he asks, a source on the call told ABC News' Rick Klein.

Obama is poised to pick up some of the 31 pledged delegates at stake in today's final primary contests in Montana and South Dakota, and has gained the support of many superdelegates over the last 24 hours.

"We've known for the last couple of months that even though Obama emerged as the front-runner, he was not going to be able to secure the nomination without the support of superdelegates," said Nathan Gonzales, political editor of the Rothenberg Political Report.

A windy Monday, politicos blowing into town...

No blowing wind here, all serious!  Actually the 2008 Windpower Expo is in town.  With all this talk about oil, coal, and whatever, the conference is actually the largest Wind Industry gathering in the country.  Blowing into town:  a few thousand wind gurus, and a share of politicos.  Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius is a headliner at the opening session.  She was joined by Texas Guv  Rick Perry, and your local green guru, Mayor Bill White.

Gen. Wesley Clark is even swinging into town for the conference, taking a break from his cable-TV talking-head job.  Wind power is hot right now, and Texas is the epicenter.  So, with a few thousand attendees and a few bold name headliners, local former wind energy exec. Michael Skelly is harnessing whatever political electricity that he could.  Facing entrenched incumbant John Culberson, Skelly took the opportunity to hold a fundraiser today with the Dems in town, and a few hundred wind fans.  His campaign has also sent out emails proclaiming his participation in the conference..

There are a bunch of news conferences going on as well, not to mention that the few thousand attendees with an expense account will be spending their dough in town.

A windy Monday, politicos blowing into town...

No blowing wind here, all serious!  Actually the 2008 Windpower Expo is in town.  With all this talk about oil, coal, and whatever, the conference is actually the largest Wind Industry gathering in the country.  Blowing into town:  a few thousand wind gurus, and a share of politicos.  Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius is a headliner at the opening session.  She was joined by Texas Guv  Rick Perry, and your local green guru, Mayor Bill White.

Gen. Wesley Clark is even swinging into town for the conference, taking a break from his cable-TV talking-head job.  Wind power is hot right now, and Texas is the epicenter.  So, with a few thousand attendees and a few bold name headliners, local former wind energy exec. Michael Skelly is harnessing whatever political electricity that he could.  Facing entrenched incumbant John Culberson, Skelly took the opportunity to hold a fundraiser today with the Dems in town, and a few hundred wind fans.  His campaign has also sent out emails proclaiming his participation in the conference..

There are a bunch of news conferences going on as well, not to mention that the few thousand attendees with an expense account will be spending their dough in town.