Houston and Harris County face budget strains: property tax increases and potential cuts on the horizon
Houston is preparing possibly dealing with budget challenges in the next fiscal year due to the expenses from the May derecho and Hurricane Beryl, totaling $39.9M, without federal assistance.
โWeโre not going to biteโ: Dispute over fence sparks legal battle between family and developers
The saying โgood fences make good neighbors,โ is keenly on the minds of a Third Ward family currently in a property dispute with neighboring property developers. The problem stems over the installation of a new fence.
Houston apartment renter frustrated with ongoing water bill battle
Over half of Houstonโs residents are renters, many living in apartment complexes scattered across the city. For those who pay their water bill to their landlord rather than directly to the water department, disputing discrepancies in the bill can become a complex and frustrating process.
FBI investigating Houston park ranger accused of targeting LGBTQ+ members by demanding money or sexual acts
The FBI Houston Field Office has launched a federal civil rights investigation to seek more victims of a Houston park ranger accused targeting members of the LGBTQ community by demanding money or sexual favors in exchange for not being arrested at Cullen Park.
Meet the defense attorneys in the Gerald Goinesโ deadly Harding Street raid murder trial
In less than two weeks, former Houston Police Department Narcotics Officer Gerald Goines will stand trial for the deadly 2019 Harding Street raid that resulted in the deaths of Dennis Tuttle and Rhogena Nicholas. Get to know the key defense attorneys who will play pivotal roles in this significant Harris County trial, including Nicole Deborde Hochglaube, Molly Bagshaw, Corey Fawcett, George "Mac" Secrest, and William Reagan Wynn.
Ask Amy: Who picks up utility poles and wires left after Hurricane Beryl cleanup?
Who is responsible for picking up utility mess debris left behind? KPRC 2 Investigator Amy Davis works to find answers to your questions.
Houston families turning to KPRC 2 for help in picking up delayed storm debris
On Wednesday, KPRC 2โฒs Deven Clarke spoke to a family in the Garden Oaks neighborhood of northwest Harris County, who was still dealing with a huge debris pile from Hurricane Berylโmore than 40 days after the tropical storm hit the Houston area.
Months-old debris collected at Houston school after KPRC 2 reaches out to cityโs waste management
More than a month and a half later since Hurricane Beryl, and three months since the Mayโs derecho, piles of storm debris continue to line Houston neighborhoods.
Resources Houston residents may turn to during excessive heat warning
If you're looking to cool off during the excessive heat, the City of Houston activated its Public Health Heat Emergency Plan with a complete list of cooling centers.
Dr. Tatcho Mindiola Jr., former director of UH CMALS and sociology professor dies
The University of Houstonโs Center for Mexican American and Latino Studies confirms Sunday the former director of the program, Dr. Tatcho Mindiola Jr. has died.
Houston City Council confirms new HPD, HFD chief appointments
The Houston City Council has confirmed the appointment of Thomas Muรฑoz as the new Fire Department Chief, replacing Sam Peรฑa, and Noe Diaz as the new Police Department Chief, succeeding Troy Finner. Muรฑoz brings over 26 years of experience and a commitment to improving safety for all residents. Diaz, with 23 years in law enforcement, including time as a Texas Ranger, promises servant leadership and community engagement. Exciting changes are ahead for Houston's first responders! ๐๐ What are your thoughts on the new appointments? Let us know in the comments!
Mowing, maintenance, and storm debris removal underway at Houston ISD schools before students return to campuses
Many school districts are already back in session and Houston ISD is just a weekend away from its first day. However, with that in mind, some parents noticed some T.L.C. that needs to be done at some area schools and theyโre taking their concerns right to the top.
City of Houston tree waste collection has been expensive, as new fee looms
The City of Houston hired an army of sub-contractors to handle the millions of pounds of tree waste left in the wake of Beryl and the Derecho.
Dignitaries at Sheila Jackson Leeโs funeral include Glenda Glover, the Clintons, Ben Crump, Al Sharpton, Kamala Harris
Reflections on the late Congresswoman from Houston's lie will also come from her children as well as local and national leaders.
โIt has been an honor and privilege,โ Sam Peรฑa bows out as chief of Houston Fire Department
"To the residents of Houston, I leave with a full heart of gratitude for the memories and experiences we have shared," Peรฑa wrote on social media. "It has been an honor and privilege, and I thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of serving as your Fire Chief."
Greenspoint Mall may be gone, but new affordable housing, retails and restaurants are on the way
Greenspoint Mall, a Houston northside staple since 1976, is closing its doors. While the mall will be missed, exciting developments are on the horizon. Say goodbye to the past and hello to a vibrant future! What do you think about these changes? Share your thoughts below!
โI donโt remember anythingโ: Dad drugged at Montrose bar after drinking his wifeโs drink roofied by a โcreepyโ guy
A father and husband was drugged while out drinking with his wife at a Montrose bar.
Ex-city of Houston water dept. manager admits to lying about relationship with contractor she awarded millions
Patrece Lee, the former Houston Public Works manager, admitted to lying to the inspector general's office about one of the emergency water repair contractors she awarded millions to being her relative.
Still dealing with storm debris from Beryl? Hereโs how you can track the cleanup progress in Houston
Do you still have debris from Beryl that you are waiting for the city to pick up? Well, here's how you can track the progress and figure out exactly when crews are set to come to remove the eye-sore plaguing many of our streets.
Pop-Off Politics: Roughly $35 Million headed towards water infrastructure
Pop-Off Politics is where we keep you informed about how your tax dollars are being spent by the City of Houston. Every Wednesday, 16 members of the Houston City Council convene to allocate millions of dollars toward projects intended to benefit Houstonians. Weโre highlighting two significant items on the agenda that total $35 million.
Hereโs when, where Houston will host its 14th annual Back 2 School Fest
Council Member Julian Ramirez shared details Tuesday morning on the upcoming annual Back 2 School Fest, where every year the city partners with Shell to give away backpacks and much more ahead of the starting school year.
WHOA! ๐ณ Satellite images show sobering view of power outages in Texas caused by Hurricane Beryl
As conversations over accountability with local, and state leadership as well as with CenterPoint Energy continue, new satellite images are giving a sobering look at the massive power outages, caused by Beryl.
Mayor Whitmire extends disaster declaration after Hurricane Berylโs devastation
In response to the wreckage left by Hurricane Beryl, Houston Mayor John Whitmire has successfully extended the city's local disaster declaration. With unanimous approval from the city council, this move secures vital state and federal resources for recovery. The hurricane caused significant damage, including downed trees, debris, and prolonged power outages. Affected residents can look forward to updates from CenterPoint and a crucial meeting with the Public Utility Commission of Texas on July 25.
Experience Houstonโs diverse indie music scene at the Solar Flare Music Festival
The Solar Flare Music Festival is the newest music event to add to your calendar!15 acts with their own unique style and stage presence will perform next month. We got a preview of Marley Moon, you can experience her smooth vocals and nostalgic sounds at the festival. Continue watching to find out all the details and where you can go to stay on top of Houston's indie music scene.
Beryl power outages crowd hospitals, delay new admissions
In Houston, discharged patients remain in an arena to avoid powerless homes. Some 70 miles north, Livingstonโs hospital is one of 17 in the state relying on a generator because of Hurricane Beryl power outages.
Power Outages Spark Renewed Debate: Should We Bury More Power Lines?
Houston's power grid was crippled by Hurricane Beryl, leaving more than two million residents without power and prompting many to ask KPRC 2 about the feasibility of burying more power lines.
Out-of-towners! Hurricane Beryl is ONE more reason why you SHOULD NOT move to Houston
There are so many reasons to move to Houston, such as the cost of living, the atmosphere, the food, jobs, low taxes, diversity, homes, tech and so much more on that long list -- but we are full, signed a frustrated Houstonian.
UPDATED LIST: Cooling, charging centers across Houston residents can turn to amid ongoing power outages
As the heat rages on and about a million customers still wait anxiously for CenterPoint Energy to restore their power, the City of Houston as well as its nonprofit and county partners are activating more centers for residents needing respite.
Mayor Whitmire, HPD Chief Satterwhite visit officer hospitalized after shooting
After a Houston police officer was shot Monday night, Mayor John Whitmire and Police Chief Larry Satterwhite paid the officer a visit in the hospital.
Heat Exhaustion: Whoโs at highest risk, symptoms to watch out for, and how to know when to get medical help
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are SERIOUS risks in these unfavorable weather conditions. Learn more about how to protect yourself from the scorching heat here. ๐ฅต๐ก๏ธ#HeatSafety #StayCool #HoustonHeat
CenterPoint: 1 million customers to have power by Wednesday, unclear when other million will have theirs restored
CenterPoint Energy says it expects to have power restored to 1 million customers โby the end of the day on Wednesday" but what about the other half? Here's what they told us.
LIST: Cooling centers Houston, Harris County residents can turn to after Hurricane Beryl
Hurricane Beryl is gone from Houston but the heat advisory has returned. And with power slowly getting restored to the nearly 2 million customers, the City of Houston, and Harris County, are activating these cooling centers
โDirty side of a dirty hurricaneโ: Houstonโs widespread damage and recovery efforts after Hurricane Beryl
Three deaths, 900 calls an hour to 911, widespread damage and power outages for more than 2 million in Greater Houston area.
Hurricane Beryl interrupting trash services for City of Houston | Hereโs what we know
The City of Houston's Solid Waste Management Department announces service interruptions for July 8 due to Hurricane Beryl, suspending all waste collection services.
What is a civic club and does your neighborhood have one?
Have you ever wondered how to make a real difference in your community? Civic clubs or associations might be the answer! These volunteer-driven groups focus on improving neighborhoods through various activities, from social events to political activism. Unlike Homeowner Associations (HOAs), which have legal authority and fixed membership, civic clubs are flexible, allowing members to join or leave freely. Curious if your neighborhood has a civic club? Check your city or countyโs website for directories. And if youโre inspired to start one, gather your neighbors, plan a meeting, and start organizing!
How a problem at Lake Livingston Dam could impact water for millions in Houston
A Lake Livingston Dam is now being watched for a โpotential failure.โ While the dam is more than 80 miles away from Houston, this could be a huge problem for millions of people.
โHouston BCycleโ bikes to be removed from Houston following closure
Earlier this month, the Houston BCycle bike sharing service announced that it would be closing on June 30. As that day approaches, the City of Houston has begun the process of collecting all the bikes.
Galleria apartments without power for six days, temps reaching over 90ยฐF inside
During whatโs proving to be the hottest week of summer so far in Houston, an entire apartment building is left without air conditioning.
Houston public official accused of misusing millions in public funds
Todd Edwards, a former Real Estate Manager with the Midtown Redevelopment Authority, has been indicted for "Abuse of Official Capacity." An investigation revealed Edwards allegedly used his position to benefit companies he had interests in, diverting $8 to $10 million in public funds. Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg will address the arrest on Friday afternoon. Stay tuned for more updates.
Medical examiner releases identity of 12-year-old girl found strangled in Houston creek
Two days after a 12-year-old girl was found dead in a north Houston creek, medical examiners have confirmed the girlโs identity.
โLike a bad dreamโ: Police say 12-year-old found dead in N. Houston creek was strangled, seek 2 persons of interest
Police say a 12-year-old girl whose body was found in a north Houston creek was strangled to death.
Management company responds to familyโs lawsuit in death of Aliyah Jaico after she was sucked into hotel pool pipe
A management company involved in the death of Aliyah Jaico has responded, denying responsibility in the 8-year-oldโs death.
Lake Houston, Lake Conroe lowered to prepare for incoming storms
Authorities are lowering water levels in Lake Houston and Lake Conroe to mitigate flood risks from an approaching tropical system expected to impact the area with heavy rains.
โHouston BCycleโ bike sharing service to close after 12 years
The Houston BCycle bike sharing program has announced that it will be shutting down its service on June 30 after operating for 12 years.The service started back in 2012, when the City of Houston began a contractual agreement with Houston Bike Share. The bikes were funded by a grant from former Houston Mayor Annise Parkerโs Office of Sustainability through the Environmental Protection Agency.
Houston pools unable to open amid nationwide lifeguard shortage, hereโs how you can help ๐๐
Options for where to swim in Houston are limited, due to a nationwide shortage of lifeguards.
Repairs still undone at NW Houston hotel pool months after Aliyah Jaico was sucked into pipe
Nearly 3 months after Aliyah died, a Houston Health Department spokesperson says the pool remains closed but that's because โThe operator hasnโt submitted plans to remodel the pool." He adds, "Our department would need to review and approve the plans before the operator can even begin the pool repairs.โ
Top 5 most outrageous Houston water bills the KPRC 2 โDRAINEDโ investigation helped resolve
The KPRC 2 โDRAINEDโ Investigation is getting big results! You may know last month seven people were charged in a water line repair scandal, after Amy Davis exposed shady contract dealings. This is after the entire Houston water department changed the way they bill Houston customers. All of this is in addition to the massive amount of money Amy and the team have helped get back for customers with high and confusing water bills.
โItโs a death trapโ: Cyclist sues City of Houston after hitting pothole, suffering serious injuries
The lawsuit alleges the City had previous knowledge of that streetโs condition saying โit had been previously reported to the City of Houstonโ and either did not get fixed or wasnโt done properly.
$4,168.67!?๐ฑ Houston woman sent huge bill despite shutting off water herself to avoid it
A Fifth Ward resident claims despite shutting off her own water, fearing a high bill, she still owes $4,168.67.
Debris removal tracker promised to Houston storm victims may never launch: Hereโs why
The City of Houston has delayed the launch of a new tool designed to help residents track the progress of storm debris cleanup following a devastating Derecho.
Questions persist about tiny corporation linked to Houston Airport System and chaired by cityโs airport director
KPRC 2 Investigates has uncovered ongoing concerns about the Houston Airport Systemโs Development Corporation (HASDC), a small, self-funded non-profit corporation that generates significant revenue, yet operates with little transparency and close ties to high-ranking city officials. Despite reporting substantial assets and providing large grants, questions remain about its financial operations and lack of clear oversight.
Fifth Ward cancer clusters: The toxic chemicals found and most common illnesses related
We've been discussing the Fifth Ward cancer cluster for years, but have you ever wondered what chemicals were found and what health risks they might pose? We have looked into some of the chemicals found in the Fifth Ward and Kashmere Garden areas and listed the health effects,
โI screwed upโ: Contractor charged in Houston water line repair scandal uncovered by KPRC 2โฒs DRAINED investigation
๐ฃ Shocking revelations have come to light about a corruption scandal involving waterline repair contracts in Houston. Investigative journalist Amy Davis with KPRC 2 Investigates has been at the forefront, uncovering the truth behind the shady deals that cost taxpayers millions of dollars.๐ Several defendants have been charged with bribery, abuse of official capacity, and tampering with government documents. This case continues to unfold, and with ongoing investigations, more people may be implicated.
Reasons why you SHOULD NOT move to Houston ... NO. 1, we are FULL!
There are so many reasons to move to Houston, such as the cost of living, the atmosphere, the food, jobs, low taxes, diversity, homes, tech and so much more on that long list -- but we are full, signed a frustrated Houstonian.
You might have Derecho storm debris all summer long and City of Houston is delaying launch of cleanup tracker
The City of Houston has delayed the launch of a new tool designed to help residents track the progress of storm debris cleanup following a devastating Derecho.
Harris County Scrap Yard targeted in environmental investigation
A Harris County Precinct One Deputy Constable noted on a map that a water retention pond near the rear of the property was โextremely polluted with chemical wasteโ.
One of 7 charged from KPRC 2โฒs โDRAINEDโ Investigation in custody, will appear in court Monday
Patrece Lee has a court date scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday morning. Sheโs the first to appear in court following the charges being filed.
โI think she was doing her jobโ: Houstonโs mayor commends KPRC 2โฒs Amy Davis for exposing shady city contracts
Houston Mayor John Whitmire responds to corruption charges against seven people in a city water line repair scandal uncovered during KPRC 2's 'DRAINED' investigation.
How you can track storm debris cleanup progress in Houston following devastating derecho
The City of Houstonโs Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) has released a new tool to help people track the progress of storm debris cleanup.
ShotSpotter not worth it? Technology used to detect gunfire, dispatch Houston police on chopping block, mayor says
A pricey safety initiative that uses technology to detect gunfire and dispatch police to the location, could soon be scrapped by the city.
โThis is more than I signed on for:โ Residents ready to move out after power problems in Heights apartments
After a nearly two-week-long battle with their landlord, many residents in a Houston Heights apartment complex are looking to move out and move on with their lives.
Lifeguards needed in Houston, $500 incentive offered; hereโs how to apply ๐
Do you know anyone looking for a summer job? How about being a lifeguard? The City of Houston is offering $500 incentives for those who work throughout the summer.
First mosquito of 2024 to test positive for West Nile Virus in Harris County collected from trapping site
Harris County Public Healthโs (HCPH) Mosquito and Vector Control Division (MVCD) confirms that the first mosquito to test positive for West Nile Virus in 2024 has been collected from a trapping site in the City of Houston.
15 suspects arrested after reportedly breaking into Houston area businesses during the storm
Authorities have arrested multiple suspects who were allegedly caught by police taking advantage of residents during last weekโs storm.
How Houston residents are staying cool with temps in the upper-90s coupled continued power outages ๐ฅต๐ง
Submit your Click2Pins and show us some ways you and your family are cooling down during the widespread power outages lingering around our area.
Pop-Off Politics: Houston Police Department seeks approval for real time crime center
Check out the latest segment of Pop-Off Politics where we dive into important agenda items in Houston! This week, we explore the Houston Police Department's Real Time Crime Center and the Houston Forensic Science Center's efforts to address testing backlogs. Stay informed and engaged with local government. #PopOffPolitics #HoustonNews
Heat Exhaustion: Whoโs at highest risk, symptoms to watch out for, and how to know when to get medical help
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are SERIOUS risks in these unfavorable weather conditions. Learn more about how to protect yourself from the scorching heat here. ๐ฅต๐ก๏ธ#HeatSafety #StayCool #HoustonHeat
โIt is outrageous:โ Senior living facility abandoned by management following storm, Mayor says
A senior living apartment complex in Houston is accused of abandoning itโs vulnerable residents after a severe weather outbreak in Houston on Thursday.
City of Houston releases cooling centers, ice and water centers across Harris County
The City of Houston has released a list of locations for people without air conditioning to seek relief while power is being restored.
Rescued Pets Movement seeks donations after storm knocks out portion of facilityโs roof
Rescued Pets Movement is seeking help from Houstonians after their facility was damaged during the severe thunderstorms that hit Houston Thursday.
More than 100K gallons of wastewater spilled during storms in Houston
As a result of the severe weather and intense rainfall in the City of Houston, more than 100,000 gallons of wastewater has overflowed from the cityโs sewer system.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire signs disaster declaration after devastating storms hit the Houston area
The mayor has just signed a disaster declaration for the City of Houston following the devastating storms that hit the area. This will allow for additional resources and support for storm recovery. #HoustonWeather #SevereWeather #Houston #DisasterRecovery
At least 3 deaths reported by Houston police during Thursday nightโs severe weather
Houston Mayor John Whitmire said Thursday nightย at least four people diedย during the storm. KPRC 2 has received information of at least three weather-related deaths, but itโs unclear if these deaths reported by police are part of the deaths Mayor Whitmire referred to.
Multiple school districts closing all campuses Friday after storms leave widespread damage
After severe storms left widespread damage in the City of Houston Thursday, Houston ISD has announced they are closing all campuses and canceling classes on Friday.
Construction of detention basin offers relief to flood-prone neighborhoods in Inwood Forest
๐ง๏ธ๐๏ธ Good news for families living along White Oak Bayou! The City of Houston and Harris County Flood Control District are teaming up to construct a Detention Basin on the former Inwood Forest golf course. This basin will temporarily hold back water during flooding events, reducing the risk of flooding in nearby neighborhoods. These flood mitigation projects are a big step towards protecting our homes and businesses from the kind of damage experienced during Hurricane Harvey. ๐ช๐ #FloodPrevention #HoustonStrong #ProtectingOurCommunity ๐๐ซ
Brief look back at Troy Finnerโs time as Chief of Houston Police Department
Chief Troy Finner left the Houston Police Department abruptly and without much explanation. However, in his brief tenure as the head of Houston Police, he brought about several changes.
โThis is a big deal for all of usโ: Houston city leaders address near-flooding disaster, dam improvements
Just days after hundreds of homes nearly got flooded (again), Houston city leaders talked about the issue and needed dam improvements. Houston City Council approved an ordinance to streamline funds for Lake Houston Dam Spillway improvements. This will hopefully help prevent future flooding in the Houston area.
Community leaders, organizations react to former HPD chief Troy Finnerโs retirement
Community leaders and organizations are reacting to the surprising retirement of former HPD Chief Troy Finner. #HoustonPoliceDepartment #TroyFinner #Retirement
Houston nonprofit to hold conference, business expo supporting Vietnamese entrepreneurs
In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Month, local nonprofit VBI Global is hosting a conference and business expo in support of Vietnamese entrepreneurs and businesses.
Who is Larry Satterwhite? Houston PDโs new interim chief takes over amid scandal
In a surprising turn of events, Chief Troy Finner has stepped down as Houston PD's top cop, with Mayor John Whitmire appointing Executive Assistant Chief Larry Satterwhite to serve as interim chief.