Howdy WHA Members!
As the city cooled off from Final Four fever, Houston’s own UH Cougars made it all the way to the finals, showcasing grit and resilience that’s becoming a hallmark of this city’s rising national profile. Meanwhile, the national conversation is heating up. President Trump’s on-again off-again tariffs on key imports, a move that’s drawing both praise and criticism across Texas business sectors, is leading to confusion in the markets. While some see it as a protective measure, others worry about the ripple effects on development costs and supply chains, particularly in fast-growing regions like ours.
Closer to home, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has made headlines with his announcement that he’ll be challenging John Cornyn for U.S. Senate in 2026. The campaign trail is already buzzing about AG replacements, and we’ll be watching closely as candidates begin to shape their platforms. And in Houston’s own backyard, voters in Congressional District 18 will return to the polls this November. The special election promises to bring fresh energy and some familiar voices into the conversation about the city’s future.
With all this momentum—on the courts, in the Capitol, and at the ballot box—it’s a clear reminder that leadership matters. Meanwhile, the Legislature continues advancing key bills, and our WHA Government Affairs Committee is actively tracking developments that could shape the future of growth and infrastructure across our region.
Speaking of committees, May brings a full slate of committee meetings, providing members with opportunities to engage with key issues shaping our region. Our Education & Workforce Committee will meet May 1st. Our Flood Control & Drainage Committee is meeting May 7th. Our Government Affairs Committee will meet virtually on May 12th to discuss current proposed legislation with our members on the ground in Austin. Our Sustainable Infrastructure and Parks, Recreation & Open Spaces Committees will be meeting May 13th. On May 15th on our Water Resources Committee will discuss their five-year plan. On May 19th our Regional Mobility Committee is working to identify the next steps on priority projects in our region and planning our fall mobility forum. On May 22nd our Quality Planned Development Committee will meet at TMC West to discuss what constitutes “QPD” when talking about institutional developments.
Also, next week, on May 8th is our sold out Rising Leaders Topgolf Tournament! You can still join us for camaraderie, the silent auction, and lunch with a caddie ticket. Then in June don’t miss our QPD Symposium: Turing Growth Into Opportunity happening on the 20th. Meanwhile, it you missed our April 24th forum, you can read a summary on our website!
2025 is off to a powerful start, and I’m inspired by the energy, collaboration, and vision already taking shape. I look forward to the thoughtful conversations and bold ideas that will guide us as we work together to ensure the Greater West Houston region grows not just bigger, but better, with resilience, opportunity, and quality at the forefront of every step forward.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our shared vision!
Alan Steinberg
President & CEO
West Houston Association