Howdy WHA Members!
As the new year begins, the political landscape continues to take shape at the local level, with several transitions worth noting across Houston. In the At-Large Position 4 runoff, voters selected new leadership as Alejandra Salinas defeated Dwight Boykins by a 60–40 margin in an off-cycle election that saw turnout remain below five percent—an important reminder of how much influence a small number of voters can have in local races. Additional change is on the horizon with an upcoming off-cycle election in District C, following Abbie Kamin’s decision to run for Harris County Attorney, which will open another seat on City Council and further reshape the city’s leadership.
Regionally, several counties are preparing for leadership transitions that will shape policy and governance in the years ahead. In Waller County, Judge Trey Duhon has announced he will not seek re-election, with Commissioner Justin Beckendorff widely viewed as the frontrunner to succeed him. Harris and Brazoria counties will both see open County Judge races, while Fort Bend and Montgomery counties have sitting judges seeking re-election amid primary challenges. Together, these contests are expected to drive a broader reshaping of county leadership, including several county commissioner positions across the region.
At the national level, the coming term will also bring meaningful transition, with at least ten Texas incumbents not returning to Congress. Additionally, the runoff election for Congressional District 18 is scheduled for January 31, setting the stage for another pivotal decision early in the year that will help shape representation for our region. As decisions continue to take shape, WHA is committed to keeping infrastructure funding, mobility enhancements, and long-term sustainability at the forefront of conversations with leaders at every level of government.
Last month, we convened leaders and stakeholders for a focused discussion on the future of mobility along the 290 Corridor, exploring how planning, investment, and innovation can better support one of West Houston’s most critical transportation arteries. From freight movement to commuter connectivity, the conversation highlighted both current challenges and emerging opportunities. You can read more about the discussion and key takeaways from the forum here.
Our committees are ready for the new year with a full slate of meetings and initiatives. Kicking off the year is our Flood Control & Drainage Committee meeting on January 7th discussing the City of Houston’s Stormwater Master Plan and new interactive viewer with Paresh Lad. Then our our Education & Workforce Committee will meet on January 9th to continue discussion of the “Educational Village” concept. The following week is a busy one starting with our Government Affairs Committee meeting on January 12th. Then, on January 13 both our Sustainable Infrastructure Committee and our Parks, Recreation & Open Spaces Committee will be meeting to plan out their year. Our Water Resources Committee is also meeting that week on January 15th to discuss final plans for their February forum. On January 21st our Regional Mobility Committee will meet with METRO to discuss future public transit plans impacting the greater West Houston region. Our Quality Planned Development Committee will hold a special virtual meeting on January 8th focused on planning this summer’s QPD symposium and take a tour of Veranda near Richmond, TX on January 28th.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for our Municipal Water Reuse Forum on February 19th. The program will explore how municipal water reuse is shaping the future of sustainable growth and securing long-term water supplies. Featuring case studies and presenters from City of Richmond and City of Katy that highlight innovative strategies, infrastructure solutions, and policy opportunities that strengthen resilience across our regional water systems.
Be on the lookout for the West Houston Association’s 2025 Annual Report, which highlights the work, partnerships, and impact of our members over the past year. The report will be available by the end of January and will be featured in our February newsletter, offering a clear snapshot of how the Association continues to advance leadership in quality growth across the greater West Houston region.
As we kick off the new year, I am excited for what’s ahead and our new board leadership. I am encouraged by the progress our members continue to make through collaboration, leadership, and shared purpose. January is a time to look forward; to build upon lessons learned, advance priority initiatives, and turn shared ideas into action. Together, we are strengthening the foundation for a more resilient, well-connected, and thriving Houston region.
Alan Steinberg
President & CEO
West Houston Association