The Brief

Houston City Council Passes $7.5 Billion Budget Amid Protests

Houston City Council approved Mayor John Whitmire's $7.5 billion budget, sparking protests over a new $5 monthly trash fee.

In a decisive move on June 10, 2026, the Houston City Council approved Mayor John Whitmire's proposed $7.5 billion budget for the fiscal year. The budget passed with a 15-1 vote, with Councilmember Abbie Kamin dissenting. Mayor Whitmire emphasized that the budget aims to protect essential city services and set Houston on a solid financial path. A notable aspect of the new budget is the introduction of a $5 monthly fee for trash collection, set to begin in July. This fee will be reflected on residents' water bills starting in August. Mayor Whitmire described the fee as a "practical solution" to address the city's financial challenges. The budget also includes significant allocations for public safety, infrastructure, and community services. However, the approval process was not without controversy. Protests erupted at City Hall following the council's decision, with residents expressing concerns over the new trash fee and its impact on their households. Councilmember Kamin, who voted against the budget, voiced apprehensions about the fee's potential burden on residents and questioned the allocation of funds. She emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to address the city's financial issues without imposing additional costs on residents. The budget's passage marks a significant moment in Houston's fiscal planning, balancing the need for essential services with the city's financial constraints. As the new fiscal year approaches, residents and city officials alike will be closely monitoring the implementation of the budget and its impact on the community.

ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.

Sources