Public Notice Roundup: City Services Resume and Critical Health Advisories Issued
Municipal Courts and Public Services Resume Operations
The City of Houston has announced that all normal municipal court operations will resume today, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, following a temporary closure due to extreme winter weather. Residents with cases affected by the closure must appear in person to reset their court dates. The official reset period begins today and runs through Tuesday, February 3, 2026, until 5 p.m. It is critical to note that failure to reset cases within this window may result in the issuance of arrest warrants. Additionally, jury service, parking adjudication hearings, and municipal weddings have returned to their regular schedules. For those requiring public works assistance, the Houston Solid Waste Management Department has also confirmed that regular waste and recycling collection services have resumed as of this morning.
Regional School Districts and Universities Reopen
Following the recent winter storm and subfreezing temperatures, Houston-area educational institutions have officially reopened. Houston ISD (HISD), Fort Bend ISD, Katy ISD, and Aldine ISD, along with the University of Houston and Houston Community College, have returned to normal schedules today. HISD facilities teams began conducting district-wide heating checks at 4:30 a.m. to ensure all campuses are safe and warm for students. While operations have resumed, city officials urge parents and commuters to remain cautious, as isolated pockets of ice may still be present on sidewalks, parking lots, and residential roadways.
CDC Health Advisory: Screwworm and Flu Surge
The Houston Health Department is highlighting a recent nationwide health advisory from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the New World screwworm. Cases of the parasitic larvae have been confirmed in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, near the Texas border. Residents are advised to keep open wounds covered, use insect repellent, and monitor livestock for signs of infection. Simultaneously, health officials report a significant surge in seasonal flu cases across the region. With transmission rates remaining high, residents are encouraged to practice respiratory hygiene and stay home if they exhibit symptoms to prevent further community spread.
City Council Agenda: Short-Term Rentals and Legislative Priorities
The Houston City Council is scheduled to meet today to deliberate on several key ordinances. A primary focus of the session is a proposed amendment to Chapter 116 of the City Code, which would expand the city’s lodging tax to include short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb and VRBO. Additionally, the council will finalize the city’s legislative priorities for the 2026 session, focusing on state funding for water infrastructure and law enforcement. Discussions are also expected to continue regarding the controversial use of the Storm Water Fund for the demolition of abandoned buildings, a move recently flagged by the City Controller.