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Harris County Tightens Decorum Rules After Heated Early Childhood Education Tax Debate

Indira Zaldivar
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Harris County Tightens Decorum Rules After Heated Early Childhood Education Tax Debate

New Rules on Conduct Adopted

Harris County Commissioners Court has amended its rules of procedure, conduct, and decorum to strengthen standards for behavior during court meetings.

The change, passed unanimously by all four commissioners in the momentarily absence of Judge Lina Hidalgo for a medical appointment, adds new language to Section 5, requiring all county elected officials and employees to conduct themselves with “proper respect and decorum” when addressing the court, engaging in public discussions, or appearing in the courtroom.

The updated rules prohibit profane, insulting, or threatening language as well as racial, ethnic, or gender slurs. Violations can result in censure—a formal declaration of condemnation—by a majority vote of the court, with the action recorded in the official minutes.

Commissioner Rodney Ellis, while opposing the effort to censure Judge Lina Hidalgo, did vote in favor of adopting the amended rules.

Motion to Censure Hidalgo

The rules change was brought forward by Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey, who also moved to censure Hidalgo for what he described as failure to maintain proper decorum on the Thursday Commissioners Court during the vote on her early childhood education “penny tax” proposal. Ramsey accused Hidalgo of using profane language in the courtroom in the presence a seven-year-old, during a separate incident on June 26.

‘Penny Tax’ Proposal Fails to Make Ballot

The motion came after a tense meeting in which Hidalgo’s proposal to place a small property tax increase on the November ballot fell short of the needed support. The measure aimed to continue funding for early childhood programs set to lose federal COVID-19 relief funding in 2026.

@queondamagazine Judge Lina Hidalgo’s push for a “penny tax” to fund child care, summer camps, and early education worker training failed to make the November ballot after a tense Commissioners Court meeting. The plan aimed to continue programs helping working families as COVID-era funds are set to expire in late 2026. Commissioners cited budget concerns and lack of data as reasons to decline support to put the penny tax on the ballot for voters to decide whether to fund the early education programs. #HarrisCounty #EarlyEducation #LinaHidalgo #ChildCareAccess #TexasPolitics #harriscountycommissionerscourt #news #explorepage #houstonnews ♬ original sound – Que Onda Magazine

Hidalgo brought dozens of children into the courtroom to emphasize the importance of the proposal, at times encouraging them to sit near the dais and chant in favor of the measure.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo holds a press conference to voice support for continued funds for the early childhood education programs.

Three of the four commissioners: Democratic Commissioners Lesley Briones Adrian Garcia, and Republican Tom Ramsey declined to support placing the tax on the ballot, citing budget concerns, lack of data, and the need to explore other funding options.

What’s Next

The updated decorum rules take effect immediately. While Ramsey’s censure motion against Hidalgo drew attention, it remains to be seen whether commissioners will take further action on the matter. The debate highlights deep divisions on the court, both over policy priorities and the tone of public discourse in county government.

Keep up to date with Harris County news with Que Onda Magazine.

Judge Orders Temporary Halt to ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Construction

Indira Zaldivar
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Judge Orders Temporary Halt to ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Construction

A federal judge has ordered construction on the controversial immigrant detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” to stop for 14 days following testimony about its potential environmental impact.

Temporary Restraining Order Issued

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Mary Williams granted the temporary restraining order after hearing concerns from environmental groups and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. While detainees can still be housed at the site, all new construction must pause to prevent possible harm to the Everglades.

Environmental and Cultural Concerns

Opponents say the facility was built without legally required environmental impact studies in an area home to endangered species like the Florida Panther and land considered sacred by the Miccosukee Tribe. Tribal leaders and environmental advocates argue the detention center threatens both the ecosystem and cultural heritage.

Legal Battle Over Compliance

Plaintiffs claim federal and state officials bypassed environmental review laws, while Florida officials argue the state’s role exempts the project from certain federal requirements. The facility operates in what critics call a legal “gray zone,” with state management but federal funding.

High-Stakes Hearing Continues

The court is weighing whether the facility’s construction and use violate environmental laws. Located in the Florida Everglades, the detention center was rapidly built to hold over 3,000 detainees and sits near Miccosukee tribal land, including villages and sacred sites.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Hidalgo’s Penny Tax Proposal to Keep Early Education Programs Fails to Be Placed on the Ballot Amid Courtroom Tensions

Indira Zaldivar
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Hidalgo’s Penny Tax Proposal to Keep Early Education Programs Fails to Be Placed on the Ballot Amid Courtroom Tensions

By Indira Zaldivar & Edward Saenz

Proposal to Extend Education Programs Falls Short

A proposal from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo to place a small property tax increase on the November ballot—aimed at extending early childhood education programs—failed Thursday after a contentious Commissioners Court meeting.

The plan would have funded and expanded programs that have served over 60,000 children originally supported by federal pandemic relief funds but lacked the necessary support from commissioners to advance. At this time, the programs’ original funds are set to expire in 2026.

Meeting Disrupted by Tensions and Children

@queondamagazine Judge Lina Hidalgo’s push for a “penny tax” to fund child care, summer camps, and early education worker training failed to make the November ballot after a tense Commissioners Court meeting. The plan aimed to continue programs helping working families as COVID-era funds are set to expire in late 2026. Commissioners cited budget concerns and lack of data as reasons to decline support to put the penny tax on the ballot for voters to decide whether to fund the early education programs. #HarrisCounty #EarlyEducation #LinaHidalgo #ChildCareAccess #TexasPolitics #harriscountycommissionerscourt #news #explorepage #houstonnews ♬ original sound – Que Onda Magazine

In a dramatic move, Hidalgo brought dozens of children into the courtroom to emphasize the stakes of the proposal. At times, she encouraged them to sit near the dais and chant in favor of the measure. The scene drew criticism from fellow commissioners who called it a breach of decorum and repeatedly asked for order.

Commissioners Withhold Support

Commissioners Lesley Briones, Adrian Garcia, and Tom Ramsey did not back the measure. Briones cited insufficient stakeholder engagement and the need to wait for a University of Houston study expected in 2026. Ramsey questioned whether the county had fully explored other funding sources and noted the county’s ongoing $270 million budget deficit.

Programs at Risk as COVID Funds Expire

The proposal sought to continue funding three key programs: Early REACH (free daycare and preschool), County Connections (summer youth camps), and ACCS (training for child care workers). These initiatives, launched in 2023, expanded access to child care and learning opportunities for thousands of families across Harris County.

Modest Tax, Broad Support

Hidalgo described the plan as a “penny tax,” costing the average homeowner about $24 per year. Supporters, including the Greater Houston Partnership, cited strong returns on investment and polling that showed two-thirds of voters support early childhood funding.

Ballot Deadline Missed After Recess

After it became clear the measure wouldn’t pass, Hidalgo called a 10-minute recess. The delay allowed the deadline to place the proposal on the ballot to lapse. She did not return to the courtroom after the break but stated, “If you want to vote no in front of the kids, that’s fine.”

Next Steps Unclear

While the failed proposal sparked intense debate and media attention, Hidalgo described the measure as her final attempt to preserve the programs and underscored her frustration: “This is all I’ve got.”

For more on Harris County, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

FBI to Help Locate Fleeing Texas Democrats, Sen. Cornyn Confirms

Edward Saenz
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FBI to Help Locate Fleeing Texas Democrats, Sen. Cornyn Confirms

Senator John Cornyn announced Thursday that FBI Director Kash Patel granted his request for help locating Texas House Democrats who left the state to block GOP redistricting efforts.

Federal Action Requested

Cornyn sent a letter Tuesday urging federal assistance in tracking down the lawmakers who fled to prevent a quorum. He thanked President Donald Trump and Director Patel for taking swift action, saying the Democrats must be held accountable for avoiding their constitutional duties.

Democrats Accused of Irresponsibility

Speaking on “The Mark Davis Show,” Cornyn called the Democrats’ absence “irresponsible,” especially given urgent legislation tied to recent flooding. He said their protest would ultimately fail, calling it “a stunt.”

Redistricting Fight Continues

The Texas House has repeatedly failed to pass the GOP’s new congressional map, which could give Republicans up to five more seats in the next midterms—enough to solidify their U.S. House majority. House Speaker Rep. Dustin Burrows said another attempt to establish quorum would happen Friday.

State and Federal Pressure Mounts

Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to arrest the Democrats and return them to Austin. Meanwhile, Trump told ABC News the FBI may need to intervene, insisting lawmakers can’t “sit it out” and must “fight it out.”

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Missing Fisherman Identified Nearly 30 Years Later

Indira Zaldivar
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Missing Fisherman Identified Nearly 30 Years Later

Human remains discovered by a hiker in Utah have been identified as belonging to a man who vanished during a fishing trip in 1997, authorities confirmed.

Grim Discovery at Fish Lake

In May, a hiker and his dog stumbled upon a hiking boot containing a human foot along the shores of Fish Lake. According to the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, the shoe model was only produced in 1996, prompting investigators to review cold cases.

David White’s Disappearance

David White of Washington, Utah, was last seen in September 1997. He had planned to fish with friends, but when those plans fell through, he went alone and never returned. His boat was later found moving across the lake, empty. A hat and a shoe were also seen floating nearby, suggesting he may have fallen into the water.

Years Without Answers

The initial five-day search yielded no further evidence. Nearly 28 years passed without resolution—until DNA testing on the foot matched one of White’s daughters with 99.9994% certainty.

Family and Authorities Express Gratitude

White’s daughter Stefanie Bennett thanked the hiker and his dog, as well as law enforcement, for their role in bringing closure. Sheriff Nathan J. Curtis acknowledged the case had weighed heavily on search and rescue teams for decades.

Closure at Last

The discovery has finally answered questions that lingered for nearly three decades, offering peace to White’s family and those who searched tirelessly for him.

For the latest headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Low rain chance Thursday, climbs back up this weekend

ABC13 Houston
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Low rain chance Thursday, climbs back up this weekend

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — There’s still a small chance for an afternoon downpour on Thursday, but there’s only a 20% chance you’ll cross paths with one.

A heat ridge will dominate the sky over most of Texas, pushing the temperature in Houston back up toward 100 degrees.

Temperatures have quickly warmed into the 90s and will again peak around 100 this afternoon. There will be less moisture available in the atmosphere for showers and thunderstorms than in previous days, but if a shower does pop up over your neighborhood it could bring briefly heavy rainfall.

What’s in store for the weekend?

The weekend will be hot but nothing extreme for August. There’s a 20% chance of an afternoon downpour on Saturday, but it climbs to 30% on Sunday as the heat dome moves away and an upper level low develops over the Texas coastline.

How does the weather look for those going back to school next week?

It’s looking like typical August weather! It will be hot with highs near averages in the mid 90s, and every afternoon there’s a 30% chance for showers and thunderstorms. These storms could impact afternoon recesses and after-school activities.

What’s happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Dexter is about to transition to a regular low pressure system over the North Atlantic. We are also monitoring two areas of potential development, one off the East Coast and one over the central Atlantic. We continue to see signs that the tropics may become even more active the second half of August as wind shear relaxes across the Gulf, Caribbean, and West Atlantic. Meanwhile, the Eastern Pacific remains very active. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Judge Weighs Environmental Concerns Over Florida’s ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Facility

Edward Saenz
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0
Judge Weighs Environmental Concerns Over Florida’s ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Facility

A federal judge is reviewing arguments that could shut down “Alligator Alcatraz,” a large migrant detention center in the Florida Everglades, amid growing environmental and tribal concerns. Critics say the facility was built without required environmental impact studies under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

Environmental and Tribal Groups Challenge the Project

Environmental advocates and the Miccosukee Tribe argue the detention center, built rapidly on land near the Big Cypress National Preserve, threatens sensitive ecosystems and tribal land. They claim construction disrupted habitats of endangered species, including Florida panthers and wood storks, and increased traffic and artificial light pollution.

Dispute Over Who Authorized the Facility

Florida officials insist the state managed and funded the project, making it exempt from federal environmental review. But state Rep. Anna Eskamani testified that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials initiated and directed the project, suggesting federal involvement that would trigger NEPA requirements.

Jurisdictional Ambiguity and Federal Scrutiny

The facility, designed to hold over 3,000 detainees, has been called a “one-stop shop” for mass deportation. Built on the grounds of the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport, it sits near Miccosukee tribal land, including villages and sacred sites. The lawsuit alleges the government failed to involve the public or conduct proper environmental studies before construction.

Testimony Highlights Facility Conditions

Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades, said the center has already caused environmental damage, including light pollution visible for miles. Eskamani described it as an “active construction site,” with barbed wire, asphalt, and bright floodlights covering the area.

State Pushback and Future Implications

Attorneys for Florida attempted to discredit Eskamani by pointing to her previous public opposition, including labeling the project a “half-billion-dollar anti-immigrant grift.” They also emphasized that the facility was built on an existing airport with prior infrastructure.

Facility Operations Under the Microscope

Though Wednesday’s hearing focused on environmental impact, the proceedings could result in a court order to suspend operations until proper reviews are completed. Immigration advocates continue to raise concerns about detainees facing unsafe conditions, minimal legal access, and being held in a legal “gray zone.”

Stay tuned for more developments with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Tropical Storm Dexter Gains Strength as Atlantic Activity Increases

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Tropical Storm Dexter Gains Strength as Atlantic Activity Increases

Tropical Storm Dexter has slightly strengthened as it drifts further from the northeastern U.S. coast.

As of Wednesday, Aug. 6, the storm was located about 405 miles south-southeast of Halifax, Nova Scotia, with sustained winds of 45 mph. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) expects Dexter to continue strengthening over the next 48 hours as it transitions into an extratropical cyclone.

Two More Systems Brewing in the Atlantic

A weak surface trough off the southeastern U.S. coast is producing scattered thunderstorms. The NHC predicts that a low-pressure system could develop in this area within a day or so, giving it a 40% chance of forming into a tropical depression in the next week.

Further east, a tropical wave is generating disorganized showers and thunderstorms. It also holds potential for gradual development and has a 50% chance of forming into a tropical depression over the next seven days as it moves west-northwest across the central Atlantic.

Tropical Storm Henriette Active in the Pacific

In the Pacific, Tropical Storm Henriette continues moving west-northwest, located about 1,760 miles east of Hilo, Hawaii. Henriette currently has winds around 50 mph. The storm may weaken slightly over the next 24 hours, with no immediate threat to land.

EP91 Shows Strong Development Potential in Pacific

Another system, labeled EP91, is active in the Gulf of Tehuantepec. It is producing organized showers and thunderstorms, and the NHC gives it a 90% chance of forming into a tropical depression within 48 hours as it moves west-northwest.

Understanding Hurricane Formation

Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters when clusters of thunderstorms develop into tropical depressions. These become tropical storms when sustained winds hit 39 mph, and hurricanes when winds reach 74 mph.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips from NOAA

  • Evacuation Plan: Know where you’ll go and how to get there.
  • Disaster Supplies: Stock up early to prepare for the storm and aftermath.
  • Insurance Checkup: Review your policy, and secure flood insurance early—there’s a 30-day waiting period.
  • Family Communication Plan: Share your hurricane plan and meeting locations with loved ones.
  • Home Protection: Trim trees, install storm shutters, and seal wall openings to strengthen your home.

Stay prepared and informed this hurricane season at QueOndaMagazine.com.

Trump to Host Apple CEO as Company Announces $100 Billion in U.S. Manufacturing

Indira Zaldivar
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0
Trump to Host Apple CEO as Company Announces $100 Billion in U.S. Manufacturing

President Donald Trump will meet with Apple CEO Tim Cook at the White House on Aug. 6 following Apple’s announcement of a $100 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing.

The move is part of a broader strategy to protect Apple’s products, particularly iPhones, from steep import tariffs.

Apple’s Expanded Investment in the U.S.

The announcement boosts Apple’s total planned U.S. investment to $600 billion over the next four years. A White House official confirmed the news, first reported by Bloomberg, and said it includes a new “American Manufacturing Program” aimed at increasing Apple’s domestic supply chain and advanced manufacturing presence.

White House Praises Manufacturing Push

“This is another win for our manufacturing industry,” said assistant press secretary Taylor Rogers, highlighting the investment’s potential to bolster national and economic security by reshoring critical production.

Tariff Threats and Apple’s Global Production

In May, Trump threatened 25% tariffs on phones made outside the U.S., criticizing Apple for producing a significant share of its iPhones in India. A week before the scheduled meeting, Trump signed an executive order imposing new tariffs on Indian imports as part of a broader set of reciprocal trade measures.

Apple’s Broader Commitment to U.S. Jobs

Earlier this year, Apple announced plans for a $500 billion investment over four years, including a new AI server plant in Texas and 20,000 research and development jobs. However, reports suggest much of the figure covers Apple’s regular operating expenses.

Factory Jobs Still in Decline

Despite the White House’s push to highlight private sector investments as evidence of tariff policy success, U.S. factory employment declined for the fifth consecutive month in July.

For more business news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine daily.

Small chance for a summer downpour continues on Wednesday

ABC13 Houston
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0
Small chance for a summer downpour continues on Wednesday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Small but heavy rain showers will again pop up on Wednesday, but the chances you’ll cross paths with them are only 30% south of I-10 and 20% north of I-10.

A fresh batch of moisture will bring pockets of rain south of I-10 for the Wednesday morning commute. Temperatures will start off in the mid 70s, then warm into the mid 90s in the afternoon. That’s when isolated downpours could pop up around Houston. Some of the showers could even throw down a few lightning bolts. Where it rains, temps will quickly drop into the mid 80s.

What’s in store for the rest of the week??

Heat levels will continue to climb with highs near 100 by Friday. Humidity levels may be high enough to warrant a Heat Advisory somewhere in Southeast Texas. Peak heat index values in the afternoon will range between 105 to 108 degrees. Rain chances will remain slim at 10-20%.

Will we finally get a rain-free weekend?

Maybe. The rain chance is still at 20%, but it does look less stormy than just about every weekend we had in July. Next week, the stormy weather pattern returns to the Gulf coast with a 30% chance of daily afternoon downpours.

What’s happening in the tropics?

Tropical Storm Dexter will remain a fish storm over the Atlantic and pose no threat to land. We are also monitoring two areas of potential development, one off the East Coast and one over the central Atlantic. We continue to see signs that the tropics may become even more active the second half of August as wind shear relaxes across the Gulf, Caribbean, and West Atlantic. Meanwhile, the Eastern Pacific remains very active. For a thorough update and in-depth video on what’s happening in the tropics, head to our tropical update page.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Keep up with all things Houston with us on Que Onda Magazine.

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