This Week: Committee Considers “Pay Parity” Petition; Historic District Design Guidelines Approved; Greater Meyerland Super Neighborhood 31 to host public meeting to discuss Hurricane Harvey recovery.

Committee Considers “Pay Parity” Petition

During a meeting of the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Council Committee, Finance Director Tantri Emo and Houston Fire Chief Sam Peña shared a presentation on the financial impact of a proposed amendment to the Houston City Charter that would mandate “pay parity” between Houston’s fire and police department employees. Director Emo projected the financial impact to Houston’s budget to be approximately $79 – $98 million in the first year and $296 million in the first three years, depending on whether the police department’s current ongoing salary negotiations result in additional raises. On August 8th, Council is expected to vote on when the measure will come to Houstonians for a vote.

Historic District Design Guidelines Approved

Council approved the proposed design guidelines for the Heights East, West, and South Historic Districts. The product of three years of intensive study and 24 public meetings, the new guidelines will provide predictability and consistency for homeowners applying to make changes to their historic homes.

What’s Happening in the District

On Wednesday, August 1st, the Greater Meyerland Super Neighborhood 31 will host a public meeting to discuss long-term recovery from Hurricane Harvey. Mayor Pro Tem Cohen and Director Tom McCasland of the Housing and Community Development Departmentwill address attendees and discussion will focus on the housing needs in the area. The meeting will take place from 6:30 – 8:30PM at the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center (5601 S. Braeswood, 77096).