Hello Houston – The Commuter Cut (September 17, 2026)
For our busy Houston commuters, we have – The Commuter Cut – a special 40-minute version of our show to listen to during your journey home.
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government
Harris County commissioners approve historic $3.1 billion budget, finalize tax hike
In total, the 2027 county tax rate has been set at $0.67 per $100 of valuation — a 7.6 percent increase from last year's tax rate of $0.62, according to agenda documents. It's one of the highest combined tax rates passed by Harris County in 20 years....
safety
Burn ban issued for Harris County in response to prolonged dry conditions
The ban, which was reportedly requested by the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office, is in response to prolonged dry conditions in parts of unincorporated Harris County, officials said....
government
Harris County funds 24/7 ankle monitor staffing after murder defendant fled to Italy
Harris County is putting $1.4 million toward around-the-clock ankle monitor oversight, a direct response to the high-profile case of a capital murder defendant who cut off his device and fled to Italy months before his scheduled trial.Commissioners approved the funding as part......
safety
Texas City police tighten oversight of Flock cameras after misuse
The move comes amid privacy concerns and growing public mistrust of Flock cameras nationwide. Most recently, two Houston-area communities suspended their use of Flock Safety cameras in response to resident concerns....
Local
Houston ISD deputy superintendent instrumental in special education overhaul resigns
State-appointed superintendent Mike Miles tapped Kristen Hole to become deputy superintendent in February. The district said she is leaving to reunite with her family, who moved out of state in the spring....
government
Harris County raises property taxes: How much more you will pay
Harris County homeowners will be paying more property taxes after Commissioners Court approved higher tax rates Thursday, adding another expense to household budgets already dealing with the cost of housing, insurance, groceries and utilities. Commissioners approved the tax......
safety
Burn ban in effect for parts of Harris County
For 90 days, outdoor fires other than the ones allowed could lead to fines and/or charges.
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Hello Houston (September 17, 2026)
Today: We talk with Houston Astros Spanish play by play broadcaster Francisco Romero, former DHS special agent Eric Balliet discusses his book "Kingpins & Coyotes," and we do our regular Thursday features “HPM in Focus” and “Current Obsessions.”...
government
Hidalgo criticizes Harris County budget after historic property tax hike, calls spending ‘unsustainable’
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is criticizing the county’s newly approved budget, calling it “irresponsible” and “unsustainable” after Commissioners Court approved the largest property tax hike in county history.Hidalgo spoke to reporters Thursday after commissioners approved.....
News
A few key takeaways from the G20 energy summit in Houston
The Environmental Protection Agency made an announcement, but was anything discussed that could ease prices at the pump? Source
government
Harris County commissioners pass property tax rate increase
Harris County commissioners will make their final vote on Thursday to decide on the proposed property tax rate increases.
News
Houston veterans’ organization rolls out voter outreach initiative
Combined Arms’ Civic After Service initiative particularly hopes to reach immigrant veterans who are preparing to vote for the first time. The initiative is launching Sept. 17 to coincide with Constitution Day and Citizenship Day....