Public Notice: Houston City Council Updates and Health Advisories

City Council Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee Meeting

The City of Houston’s Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee is officially scheduled to convene today, Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Chaired by Council Member Sallie Alcorn with Council Member Mario Castillo serving as Vice Chair, the committee is tasked with reviewing the city's critical financial framework. The agenda for today’s session includes a comprehensive review of the annual budget, current debt models, and proposed financial transactions. Additionally, the committee will analyze recent overtime trends and their fiscal impact on municipal operations. These meetings are vital for ensuring transparency and fiscal responsibility within the city government.

2026 Primary Election Day Information

Today, March 3, marks Election Day for the Texas Primary Elections. Houstonians are encouraged to participate in the democratic process by visiting designated polling locations throughout the city. Key races on the ballot include the U.S. Senate, the Texas Gubernatorial seat, and various local county judge positions. Early voting concluded on February 27, and polls are open today until 7:00 PM. Registered voters should ensure they have a valid form of photo identification before heading to their local precinct. This primary election determines which candidates will represent their respective parties in the upcoming November general election.

Public Health Advisory: Disease Dashboard and Viral Surveillance

Harris County Public Health has officially announced the launch of a new online dashboard today, March 3, 2026. This digital resource is designed to keep the community informed regarding the prevalence and mortality rates of chronic diseases across the county. In addition to this launch, health officials have issued a seasonal advisory following the detection of West Nile virus in local mosquito samples earlier this year. While no human cases have been reported in the city as of this morning, residents are advised to eliminate standing water and use repellent. Furthermore, a new surveillance report detailing COVID-19 and Long COVID trends was released yesterday, highlighting the city's ongoing commitment to public health monitoring and community support services.

Houston Police Department: 'March on Crime' Initiative

The Houston Police Department, in coordination with the Mayor’s Office, has launched the 42nd annual 'March on Crime' (Lucha Contra El Crimen) campaign for the month of March. This program focuses on crime prevention education and community engagement. Throughout the day, officers will be active in various neighborhoods, schools, and local businesses to promote safety strategies and reduce criminal activity. Mayor John Whitmire and Police Chief J. Noe Diaz emphasized that this initiative is a cornerstone of the city's efforts to foster community trust and enhance public safety through proactive communication.

Service Notice: Solid Waste Management and Infrastructure

The Solid Waste Management Department reminds residents that the 'HTX Collects' mobile application is the primary source for real-time updates on trash and recycling collection schedules. Additionally, as part of the city’s 2026 infrastructure goals, residents may notice increased activity regarding water pipe replacements and road paving projects. The city remains committed to improving local drainage and transportation networks throughout the spring season.