Houston Mayor John Whitmire joined Baker Institute fellow and former Harris County Judge Ed Emmett for a wide-ranging conversation on the state of the city and the strategic vision shaping his administration. As Houston navigates a complex urban landscape marked by evolving public safety demands, aging infrastructure, economic shifts, and increasing fiscal pressures, Mayor Whitmire reflected on his administration’s early initiatives and outlined key priorities for the future.
This dialogue explored both the challenges and opportunities facing Houston at a pivotal time in its development. With decades of combined leadership in local and state government, Whitmire and Emmett offered informed perspectives on governance, intergovernmental collaboration, and the policy decisions that will influence the city’s trajectory in the coming decade.
This Director’s Office event was free and open to the public; pre-registration was required.
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Agenda
11:30 am CDT — Registration and Lunch
12:00 pm CDT — Welcome Remarks
12:05 pm CDT — Armchair Discussion
12:45 pm CDT — Audience Q&A
Participants
Welcome Remarks
The Honorable David M. Satterfield
Director, Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy; Janice and Robert McNair Chair in Public Policy; Former Ambassador to Lebanon and Turkey
Featured Speaker
The Honorable John Whitmire, former dean of the Texas Senate, was sworn into office as Houston's 63rd mayor on Jan. 2, 2024. He has served his community his entire adult life. When called on by the people of Houston to run for mayor, Whitmire accepted the challenge. With a wealth of experience working alongside nine mayors and seven governors, he possesses invaluable knowledge in public safety, infrastructure, and effective problem-solving. Whitmire's life experiences, unwavering dedication, and a proven track record in getting things done make him a true public servant committed to the well-being of Houstonians.
Moderator
Ed Emmett
Fellow in Energy and Transportation Policy, Baker Institute; Chair, Texas Department of Transportation Freight Advisory Committee