579/3/2024
August 30, 2024 --
Dear Houstonians,
This month marks significant changes in leadership within our city's public safety departments. We have welcomed new leadership in both the Houston Police Department and the Houston Fire Department, ensuring that our city's safety remains in capable hands.
Additionally, I have been working tirelessly on behalf of our community, including testifying at the State Capitol to address the ongoing CenterPoint energy crisis. This issue remains a top priority as we strive to protect our residents and improve our infrastructure. My commitment to public safety and progress for our city remains unwavering, and I look forward to continuing our work together to make Houston an even better place to live.
Mayor John Whitmire
Taking Care of Business
Leadership Appointments at City Hall
This August, three crucial leadership positions within our city’s administration have seen a change, reflecting my commitment to public safety and transparency. Under my administration, these appointments were made with great care, ensuring that the individuals chosen embody the values of experience, dedication, and a shared vision for a safer and more equitable Houston.
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| Noe Diaz | Thomas Muñoz | Larry Satterwhite |
Noe Diaz has been appointed Chief of the Houston Police Department, replacing Acting Chief Larry J. Satterwhite. Diaz has served as Chief of Police for the Katy Police Department since March 2019 His career includes roles with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Harris County Constable Precinct Five, Texas Department of Public Safety, Narcotics Division, and as a Texas Ranger in the Houston Office. Diaz is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, FBI Texas Command College, and Northwestern University's School of Police Staff and Command.
Thomas Muñoz has been appointed as the 37th Chief of the Houston Fire Department. Muñoz, who previously retired as an Assistant Chief from HFD, has over 29 years of experience as a first responder and emergency manager. He most recently served as the City’s Coordinator for the Office of Emergency Management Coordinator and Acting Director of the Mayor's Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security. Muñoz’s career includes 24 years with HFD, overseeing Homeland Security, Public Affairs, and HAZMAT, as well as roles in the United States Coast Guard (Reserve), where he retired as a Commander.
Larry Satterwhite, a former Assistant Chief and Commander with the Houston Police Department, has been appointed as the new Director of the Mayor's Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security, succeeding Tom Muñoz. Satterwhite, who recently served as the interim Police Chief has had a 34-year career with HPD, where he held various leadership roles, including Executive Chief of Field Operations, Commander of Special Operations, and Assistant Chief overseeing homeland security. His experience includes stints in the SWAT team, vehicular crimes, and criminal intelligence units.
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| Roderick Jackson | Brian Maosn |
Roderick Jackson has been named the new Director of the Houston Emergency Center. With 28 plus years of experience in 911 Public Safety he is committed to our community, police, & fire department.
Brian Mason has been named the new Director and Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Houston’sOffice of Emergency Management. Brian will also continue his role as Executive Director for Houston TranStar, ensuring the region is prepared for any emergency.
Suspended Incident Report
The Mayor-appointed Independent Review Committee released its final report on the Houston Police Department Suspended Incident Report.
The goal of this review and this final report is to provide a detailed account of the management and operational issues that contributed to the “SL scandal” as it has come to be known.
Through this report, the Committee aims to comprehensively assess the current divisional case management operations and formulate recommendations to improve Houston Police Department policies and protocols.
Touring the Harris Center for Mental Health
Mental health is a top priority for this administration, and this month, I had the opportunity to tour The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD with my team to witness the incredible work they do.
The Center provides free treatment to over 90,000 people annually and collaborates with law enforcement to divert low-level, non-violent offenders from jail to treatment, with over 10,000 diversions since the program began.
Our administration is committed to expanding the Center's reach, especially for those who are unhoused and in need of mental health services. With 26 new units being built, we are making significant strides in improving access to these vital services and ensuring our tax dollars are put to work for the betterment of our community.
In Your Community
The 14th Annual Back 2 School Event
The 14th Annual Mayor’s Back 2 School Fest, sponsored by Shell, took place on August 3rd at the George R. Brown Convention Center.
The event supported elementary school students and their families facing financial challenges by distributing 25,000 backpacks filled with school supplies.
Thanks to the Houston Food Bank, attendees also received food and produce.
Additionally, on-site health screenings were provided, along with connections to essential community health and social services.
NAMI Walk for Mental Health Awareness
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of participating in the NAMI Walk to raise awareness for mental health. It was inspiring to witness so many Houstonians come together in support of this vital cause. Mental health impacts everyone, and it is essential that we continue to break the stigma and provide support to those in need. Let's keep the conversation going and ensure that everyone in our community has access to the resources they deserve.
Working Alongside HPD
On August 17th, I had the honor of joining Houston Police Department officers from South Central, along with our new Chief of Police Noe Diaz and Councilmember Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, for a ride-along through the Emancipation and Almeda street corridors. As part of a multi-agency public safety task force, we focused on enforcing city ordinances on noise and illegal parking in the River Crest neighborhood in Third Ward.
We also took the opportunity to connect with community members throughout the evening. Similar enforcement efforts will take place across Houston as we address issues that have been neglected for years. Special thanks to the officers, Chief Diaz, and the various city departments involved in this important work.
Celebrations
89th Anniversary of Social Security
This month, we celebrated 89 years of Social Security -- a vital program that ensures all Americans can retire with dignity after a lifetime of work.
In honor of this milestone, I proudly declared today as Social Security Day in Houston.
Joined by Rep. Sylvia Garcia, Rep. Al Green, and Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia, we reaffirmed our commitment to protecting this crucial program that millions of Houstonians, Texans, and Americans rely on.
Welcoming Our Olympians Back Home
Houston celebrated the incredible athletes who returned from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
In collaboration with Houston First Corp., the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, and the sports community, the city hosted a series of events to warmly welcome home our Olympians.
The campaign, titled "Welcome Home HOU," captured the pride and excitement that Houstonians felt as they watched their favorite athletes compete on the world stage.
Coming Up Next Month ...
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| Happy Labor Day, Houston! | 9/11 Remembrance Celebration | State of the City Address |
Happy Labor Day, Houston!
As we celebrate Labor Day, we honor the hard work, dedication, and contributions of all workers who make our city thrive. This day is a reminder of the strength of our community, built by the hands of every individual who pours their energy into making Houston a wonderful place to live, work, and grow.
Whether you’re spending it with family, friends, or simply taking a moment for yourself, we hope you enjoy the holiday.
Wishing you all a safe, restful, and joyous Labor Day.
9/11 Remembrance Day Celebration
You are invited to join the city in honoring the memory of those we lost on September 11, 2001. Join us for a solemn remembrance ceremony as we pay tribute to the heroes and victims of that tragic day.
State of the City Address
On Tuesday, September 17, at 11:00 AM, I will deliver the 2024 State of the City address. I will be highlighting the progress our city has made, discuss ongoing challenges, and outline the vision for Houston's future.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Hilton Americas - Houston 1600 Lamar St, Houston, TX 77010
For registration information, click below:
Summary - State of the City 2024 (cvent.com)
As we wrap up August, I want to express my gratitude for the continued support and dedication of our community. We are ready to tackle the challenges ahead with determination and optimism. By working closely with all our elected officials who share our commitment to Houston's growth and progress, we will ensure that our city continues to thrive.
Let’s keep moving forward together, building on our achievements and preparing for a bright future.
Mayor John Whitmire
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