The Carter Chronicles: June, 2026

Friends,

As we move into the summer months, Houston continues to face important opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of our city. From preparing for the excitement of the FIFA World Cup to addressing public safety, infrastructure, and quality-of-life concerns, City Council is focused on ensuring Houston remains a place where families and businesses can thrive.

One of the most significant issues before Council this budget season is addressing the City's long-term financial stability. As part of the FY2027 budget, residents who currently have COH solid waste collection, will see a new $5 monthly administrative fee added for solid waste services. While no one welcomes additional costs, this measure is intended to help sustain essential city services and maintain more reliable collection, disposal, and neighborhood cleanup programs that Houstonians depend on every day.

As the doors of 419 Emancipation open to address homelessness in our city, I am committed to working with the Administration to support finding resources to address ongoing needs at the facility. It takes all of us, working together! Please do not hesitate to contact my office for more information regarding services and how you might assist in our efforts!

As your At-Large Council Member, I remain committed to being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars while advocating for investments that improve our neighborhoods. Whether it's reducing homelessness, raising awareness about domestic violence and human trafficking, supporting law enforcement, or enhancing public spaces across our city, I continue working to ensure Houston remains safe, strong, and prepared for the future.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. It is an honor to represent every corner of this great city, and I look forward to continuing our work together to keep Houston moving forward.

Onward and upward,

Click here for a larger view of the domestic violence statistics above.

RESILIENCE COMMITTEE

Recycling Challenges and Practical Solutions

At last month's Resilience Committee Meeting, FCC Environmental Services provided an update on contamination in Houston’s recycling stream and the growing impact it has on safety, operations, and costs. The presentation highlighted common contaminants found in recycling bins, including electronics, Styrofoam, hoses, wires, textiles, batteries, and other hazardous materials that can damage equipment, create fire risks, and disrupt processing operations. Houston’s recycling contamination rate currently exceeds 40%, well above typical national averages.

Committee discussions also focused on practical solutions, including stronger public education, clearer recycling guidelines, improved bin labeling, and continued community awareness efforts to help residents better understand what can and cannot be recycled.

FCC emphasized that reducing contamination can improve safety, lower costs, and strengthen Houston’s recycling system for the future.

Find out more at: www.fccenvironmental.org

Join us for our next meeting:

June 4th at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall

901 Bagby, 2nd Floor, Houston, TX 77002

Presentation by:

Ryan Forth & Vendetta Blowe

“Strengthening Resilience in Houston: Sysco's Role and Partnership.”

To learn more about Resilience Committee meetings, click here.

OUT AND ABOUT

History Takes Flight in Houston

Council Member Carter joined the National Archives Foundation, Boeing, and community leaders in welcoming the Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation to Houston during its limited local stop celebrating America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Houston was one of only eight cities selected to host the traveling exhibit, offering residents a rare opportunity to experience documents and stories that helped shape the nation’s history. Inspired by the historic Freedom Train, the exhibit traveled aboard a specially designed aircraft and highlighted key moments from America’s founding and democratic journey.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller participated in the event, which also featured a musical performance by the Summer Creek High School Choir. Hosted at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the exhibit gave students, families, and history enthusiasts a unique opportunity to connect with the people, ideas, and documents that helped define the United States—right here in Houston.

Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Innovation

Five decades of care, innovation, and service were recognized during The Woman’s Hospital of Texas 50th Anniversary Celebration, bringing together healthcare leaders, partners, and community members to reflect on the hospital’s lasting impact on women’s healthcare in Houston.

Council Member Carter shared remarks on the important role hospitals play not only in delivering medical care, but in supporting families through some of life’s most meaningful milestones. Since opening in 1976, The Woman’s Hospital of Texas has cared for generations of Houstonians and grown into one of the region’s leading providers of women’s and newborn healthcare.

Women in Leadership: Lessons, Growth, and Opportunity

Leadership, career growth, and professional development were front and center at CenterPoint Energy’s Women in Leadership event, where Council Member Carter connected with a distinguished panel of women leaders from government, workforce development, and public service.

Alongside State Senator Carol Alvarado, State Representative Charlene Ward Johnson, and Juliet Stipeche, Executive Director of Workforce Solutions Gulf Coast, the discussion explored leadership journeys, mentorship, resilience, and creating opportunities for future generations.

Bringing together leaders from different backgrounds and professions, the event highlighted the value of investing in future leadership, sharing experiences, and expanding pathways for women to lead and thrive in their communities and careers.

Neighborhood Voices and Community Priorities

Community priorities, neighborhood planning, and civic engagement came together across several meetings as Council Member Carter and the At-Large 3 Team connected with residents and community leaders.

Council Member Carter spoke at the Garden Villas Community Association to share updates and engage directly with residents on issues impacting their neighborhood. Conversations reflected the value of local civic organizations in creating space for neighbors to stay informed, raise concerns, and remain involved in the future of their communities.

The At-Large 3 Team continued those conversations at the Super Neighborhood Alliance Meeting, Greater Heights Super Neighborhood, North Shepherd District, and Briar Forest Super Neighborhood gatherings, where topics ranged from neighborhood priorities and infrastructure to quality-of-life concerns. The team also participated in the TIRZ #12 City Park meeting, where planning and development discussions highlighted ongoing work tied to growth, mobility, and investment in the area.

Keeping Public Safety Conversations Moving

Council Member Carter shared updates on key initiatives and met with residents, business owners, and HPD at the North Belt Business and Community PIP Meeting, where discussions focused on public safety priorities, neighborhood concerns, and updates on the initiatives she's leading.

The At-Large 3 Team attended the Citywide PIP meeting featuring HPD Chief J. Noe Diaz and a presentation from the Burglary & Theft Division, along with the Central Patrol, Northeast, Clear Lake, and Midwest Division PIP meetings. These conversations covered a wide range of topics including human trafficking awareness and enforcement efforts, vehicle crime prevention trends, and insight into the Harris County District Attorney’s Office’s role in prosecution, victim services, and community outreach.

At the Crime Deterrence for Apartments & Businesses meeting, HPD shared practical tools and strategies aimed at strengthening safety in multifamily housing and commercial settings. Ongoing engagement between residents, law enforcement, and community leaders helps build stronger partnerships, increase awareness, and support safer neighborhoods—a top priority for Council Member Carter.

Faith and Service Across Houston

Council Member Carter joined officers, city leaders, and community members at the HPD Day of Prayer, where participants gathered in reflection and support for the men and women who serve in law enforcement. The event acknowledged the demands placed on first responders while emphasizing encouragement, wellness, and strong community relationships.

The HAAM National Day of Prayer Breakfast also brought together elected officials, business leaders, and members of the faith community in observance of the National Day of Prayer. The gathering highlighted the role faith organizations and civic leadership continue to play in supporting communities through service, resilience, and shared values.

Celebrating AAPI Leadership and Connection

Leadership, culture, and community took center stage at the Houston Astros Foundation’s Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Night Reception, where Council Member Carter joined civic, business, and community leaders for an evening highlighting AAPI voices and impact across Houston.

Presented by the Astros Foundation, the event featured a panel discussion moderated by Dawn Lin of the City of Houston Mayor’s Asian American Pacific Islander Advisory Board, with conversations centered on leadership, business, community engagement, and the importance of fostering the next generation of Asian American and Pacific Islander leaders and innovators.

Council Member Carter also connected with Kenneth Li, Chairman of the Southwest Management District Board of Directors, and Todd Kalas, television play-by-play broadcaster for the Houston Astros, reflecting the strong partnerships and diverse leadership that continue to shape Houston’s civic, business, and cultural landscape.

Serving Houston's Unhoused Community

Council Member Carter attended Sheldon Theragood’s 4th Annual Birthday Festival for the Unhoused at Magnificat Houses, Inc.’s St. Joseph Clubhouse, bringing together community partners, volunteers, and resources in support of Houston’s unhoused community.

Through his work with HPD’s Homeless Outreach Team (HOT), Sheldon Theragood continues to advocate for individuals experiencing homelessness by helping connect people to services, support, and hope. The event, supported by partners including the Houston Health Department, reflected a shared commitment to compassionate outreach and community care.

From food and hygiene kits to clothing, haircuts, and community resources, the festival highlighted the power of collaboration. Council Member Carter joined community partners in recognizing the important work being done to support Houston’s unhoused neighbors.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

FY27 Budget Proposal Outlined for Houston

Houston’s proposed FY2027 budget was unveiled during a City Hall press conference outlining the Administration’s priorities and financial outlook for the year ahead. Council Member Carter attended as Mayor John Whitmire shared updates on the proposed budget, including continued investments tied to core city services, infrastructure, public safety, and operational needs.

The conference also addressed the financial pressures the city is facing and the balancing act required to meet growing demands while maintaining fiscal responsibility. From neighborhood services and public safety to streets, drainage, and city operations, the annual budget helps determine how Houston plans for both immediate needs and long-term priorities.

For more information on the FY2027 Budget, click on the flyers below.

Common Grounds: Coffee & Conversation Launches

Council Member Carter launched Common Grounds: Coffee & Conversation, a new initiative designed to bring together experts, leaders, and the community for thoughtful discussions on issues impacting Houston. The inaugural discussion focused on human trafficking awareness, prevention, and survivor support, with Mayor John Whitmire opening the event with welcoming remarks.

The conversation featured perspectives from leaders across advocacy, survivor services, and law enforcement, including Kerry McCracken, Executive Director of the Children’s Assessment Center; Jacquelyn Aluotto, CEO of No Trafficking Zone; Lisa Bourgoyne, CEO of The Landing; Bob Williams, Founder and CEO of Ranch Hands Rescue and Bob’s House of Hope; HPD Chief J. Noe Diaz; and Harris County Sheriff’s Office Assistant Chief John Nanny.

Thanks to Starbucks Coffee for sponsoring the coffee and pastries, and stay tuned as Council Member Carter continues hosting future Common Grounds discussions on important issues impacting Houston.

Missed the Conversation?

Click here to watch the live HTV broadcast.

Mobility, Growth, and Houston’s Future

At the TAG State of Mobility Luncheon, featuring opening remarks from Mayor John Whitmire, Council Member Carter connected with Senator Robert Nichols and Council Member Mary Nan Huffman to discuss transportation priorities impacting Houston and the surrounding region.

Those conversations continued at the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership meeting, where discussions centered on mobility, infrastructure, and the region’s evolving transportation needs. Council Member Carter was also invited by Comcast to attend the Greater Houston Partnership’s Resilience Forward discussion, bringing together leaders from CenterPoint Energy, Comcast, AT&T, and Entergy to explore infrastructure readiness, resilience planning, and the challenges of supporting a growing metropolitan region.

Discussions on quality of life took place at the Scenic Houston Scenic Star Reception, Houston Economic Mobility Summit, Houston Business Forum, and the Houston Downtown Management District meeting—reinforcing the importance of collaboration, forward planning, and regional partnership in shaping Houston’s future.

Supporting Families and Community Care

At the AVDA New Beginnings Luncheon, Council Member Carter joined advocates, community leaders, and supporters in recognizing efforts to help survivors of domestic violence move toward safety, healing, and independence. The event underscored the importance of services that help individuals and families rebuild their lives.

That commitment to supporting families extended to the Houston Concierge Association Open House & Toy Drive, where hospitality leaders and community partners focused on giving back through charitable outreach benefiting children and families. At the Ronald McDonald House ribbon cutting for the new Amschwand House, celebrating expanded space and services for families caring for children receiving medical treatment.

Different missions, shared purpose: strengthening support systems for Houston families when they need them most.

Press Conference Announcing "19 Days of Juneteenth"

Mayor John Whitmire hosted a press conference announcing Houston’s “19 Days of Juneteenth” celebration, highlighting upcoming events, cultural programming, and opportunities for residents to participate in the city’s Juneteenth observance.

The initiative features 19 days of activities across Houston, recognizing the

history, culture, and legacy of Juneteenth through community events,

educational programming, performances, service opportunities, and celebrations leading up to June 19. Speakers emphasized the importance of honoring the historical significance of Juneteenth while celebrating the continued contributions of Black communities across Houston and beyond.

For a full schedule of 19 Days of Juneteenth events, click here.

Downtown Momentum Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

Continued investments in walkability, connectivity, and downtown vitality took center stage at the Main Street Promenade VIP Reception, where Council Member Carter joined Mayor John Whitmire, Council Members Sallie Alcorn, Mario Castillo, and Joaquin Martinez, along with representatives from the Harris County–Houston Sports Authority and other regional partners, in conversations about Houston’s evolving downtown landscape ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Hosted by the Houston Downtown Management District and CenTrio, the gathering highlighted the vision behind the Main Street Promenade initiative and ongoing efforts to enhance the downtown experience for residents, visitors, and the global audience Houston will welcome in 2026.

Held at The Rice, the reception reflected the collaborative work underway to strengthen Houston’s urban core through placemaking, mobility, and strategic investment in one of the city’s most active and visible corridors.

COUNCIL MATTERS

Houston City Council approved several items in May focused on public safety, infrastructure, public health, and community support. Below are a few agenda highlights:

Authorized $1.6M grant application to U.S. Department of Justice for FY27 Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program, supporting local public health and law enforcement efforts to address the opioid epidemic.
Approved $325k agreement with The Salvation Army to continue homelessness prevention and emergency shelter services for households at risk of immediate homelessness.
Approved $771k to replace critical equipment at the East Water Purification Plant to ensure reliable and uninterrupted water treatment operations.
Appropriated $759k for the Northwest Transfer Station project, advancing demolition and related construction services for solid waste infrastructure improvements.
Authorized $500k grant application to the Office of the Governor for the FY27 Body Worn Camera Program, supporting transparency and modernized public safety technology.
Authorized $3.8M grant application to the Office of National Drug Control Policy for the FY26 High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program to combat drug trafficking.

These items reflect ongoing work across multiple areas of city government, from public safety and infrastructure to health services and support for vulnerable residents.

HOUSTON HAPPENINGS

Click on the flyer or scan the QR-code to join the interest list.

Step into a world where legends come alive! Wander through an enchanted trail and come face-to-face with dragons, mythical creatures, and legendary beings drawn from ancient folklore at TXU Energy presents Mythical Realms.

From the mighty sea monster Kraken and Pegasus, the iconic winged horse, to Taniwha, a powerful supernatural guardian from Māori tradition, and Xolotl, a significant figure in Aztec mythology, you’ll discover a magical collection of legendary creatures from cultures around the world. Plus, don’t miss our interactive dig sites and epic photo ops to make your experience one to remember.

After your visit, spot animals that are depicted with some of these creatures’ features like our African lions, Masai giraffe, reptiles, and more.

Exhibit Dates: March 6 – Sept 7

Unleash Your Inner Artist: This event will take place on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Shepard-Acres Homes Neighborhood Library. Step into the world of creativity with Art Club! Inspired by masters like Van Gogh and da Vinci, this exciting workshop invites you to explore their techniques and try your hand at mimicking their signature styles. Whether you're a budding artist or just looking to have fun with art.

Open Job Lab: Job Assistance:

This event will take place on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Tuttle Neighborhood Library. Participants are invited to drop in for one-on-one support from experienced staff to help strengthen their job search. Assistance is available for resumes, cover letters, and interview preparation. This session provides practical guidance and support.

For more Houston Public Library events in June, click here.