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Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Houston with Free Festivals, Music, and Outdoor Fun

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, both Houstonians and visitors can enjoy a vibrant array of events and experiences throughout the city and nearby areas.

From soulful tributes and maritime celebrations to lakeside relaxation and family movie nights, here are some of the best free or low-cost activities to kick off the unofficial start of summer.

Feel the Rhythm at Hermann Park with “Motown & More”

One of Houston’s favorite Memorial Day traditions returns with the Motown & More Show at Miller Outdoor Theatre. This high-energy, soulful weekend features some of the city’s top talent in an unforgettable tribute to the music that defined generations.

Dance and sing along to the hits of Marvin Gaye, Chaka Khan, The Isley Brothers, Rick James, Whitney Houston, SWV, and Frankie Beverly & Maze. Presented by the Bacement Foundation for the Arts, Dancin’ In The Street: Motown & More is more than a concert—it’s a cultural celebration of legacy, community, and rhythm.

Location: Miller Outdoor Theatre, Hermann Park

Full schedule here.
Admission: All performances are free and open to the public

Explore the Port of Galveston, Celebrating 200 Years

Head to Pier 21 in Galveston to explore interactive historical exhibits as the port celebrates its 200th anniversary.

Make it a full day: take the free Galveston-Bolivar Ferry, enjoy a dolphin sightseeing tour from the pier, and relax on the beaches along the Seawall.

Admission to Pier 21 and the Bolivar Ferry is free. Tickets for rides, parking at Pier 21, and dolphin tours are sold separately.

Pier 21 in Galveston. Courtesy: Indira Zaldivar.

Enjoy the Seaside Breeze at Kemah Boardwalk

For families and thrill-seekers, Kemah Boardwalk offers a charming coastal getaway. Enjoy rides, waterfront restaurants, and the adrenaline-pumping Beast speedboat ride across Galveston Bay. Whether you’re after relaxing views or heart-racing fun, Kemah is a coastal gem just a short drive from Houston.

Location: Kemah Boardwalk
Admission: Free; ride tickets sold separately

Family Movie Night at Discovery Green – May 24

Bring your blanket, lawn chairs, and favorite snacks to Discovery Green for a cozy free Family Movie Night under the stars. Enjoy a fun film in the heart of downtown, surrounded by Houston’s impressive skyline.

Food, beer, and wine will be available for purchase at The Lake House. Outside alcohol and glass containers are not allowed.

Location: Discovery Green, Downtown Houston
Date: May 24
Admission: Free

Lake Getaways: Lake Houston and Lake Conroe

If you’re craving a more laid-back weekend, Lake Houston and Lake Conroe offer perfect spots for boating, fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun. Pack a picnic and unwind by the water—just a short drive from the city.

Location: Lake Houston via Alexander Deussen Park and Lake Conroe
Admission: Free access at many public areas

Celebrate Freedom, Fun, and Community

Whether you’re grooving to Motown classics, exploring Galveston’s maritime history, or enjoying the lake breeze, Houston offers plenty of ways to enjoy Memorial Day Weekend. Best of all, many of these activities are free. It’s the perfect chance to gather with family and friends, honor the occasion, and create unforgettable memories.

Tip: Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and plan ahead for parking and crowds, especially at popular outdoor locations.

For the scoop on things to do, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Harvard Sues Trump Administration Over Foreign Student Ban

University Challenges Visa Revocation in Federal Court

Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Friday, opposing the decision to revoke the school’s ability to enroll international students. The university called the move a “blatant violation” of the U.S. Constitution and federal laws, citing severe disruption to over 7,000 visa holders.

“Without Its International Students, Harvard Is Not Harvard”

In the complaint, Harvard stated that the administration’s action would erase a quarter of Harvard’s student body. The university emphasized the contributions of international students to its academic mission and warned of “immediate and irreparable harm.”

Harvard is seeking an injunction from U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs to block the revocation.

White House Dismisses the Lawsuit

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson criticized Harvard, accusing the school of prioritizing lawsuits over campus safety. She also cited alleged tolerance of antisemitic and anti-American activity on campus.

Homeland Security Cites Antisemitism, Ties to China

The Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, announced the termination of Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification effective for the 2025–2026 academic year. Noem accused the university of “fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party.”

Harvard President: We Won’t Surrender Academic Independence

In a letter to the Harvard community, President Alan Garber condemned the administration’s actions as political retaliation. He said the university refused to “surrender our academic independence” or submit to illegal government control over its curriculum and admissions.

Impact on Students and Programs

Nearly 6,800 international students are currently enrolled at Harvard, making up 27% of its student body. The lawsuit claims that revoking the certification would force the university to retract admissions and disrupt academic programs just days before graduation.

Government Demands Student Data

The revocation followed an April 16 request from DHS for detailed information about Harvard’s international students. Noem justified the request by citing the university’s failure to condemn antisemitism and said certification could be restored if Harvard provided video or audio records of protest activities within 72 hours.

Garber confirmed that Harvard had complied with legal requests but stood firm against what he described as unlawful federal overreach.

Keep up with Harvard’s lawsuit over Trump administration’s ban on international students with us on Que Onda Magazine.

Let’s talk about Memorial Day. Will it rain on your holiday?

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — It’ll feel like summer this long holiday weekend with humid mornings, sunny and hot afternoons with the chance for a few showers and storms on Memorial Day.

Early on this morning there are stronger storms along the I-10 corridor near San Antonio. A few of those storms could track close the Brazos River and Matagorda Bay before sunrise Friday. Gusty winds, heavy rain, small hail and lots of lightning are possibilities with these storms.

Friday morning is another steamy one with morning lows in the mid 70s. You’ll feel the humidity when you step out the door this morning, then those humid conditions will make it feel even hotter by the afternoon. Temperatures will climb into the low-mid 90s today with a heat index making it feels like the upper 90s or even 100 degrees at times. And after a cloudy start, we’ll see more sunshine Friday afternoon.

When could we get some rain again?

Rain chances return for the holiday with the highest chance of rain peaking the day after Memorial Day when another front pushes into Southeast Texas. At this time, we have a 20% chance for Saturday, a 20% chance for Sunday, a 40% chance for Monday, and a 60% chance for next Tuesday.

Will the Memorial Day front bring us any sustained heat relief?

Yes! The combination of clouds and rain will drop highs back into the 80s for most of next week, which is more typical for late May.

Hurricane seasons begins in just over a week. What can we expect this season?

Hurricane season begins on June 1st and this year we are anticipating another active one. Both hurricane outlooks from NOAA and Colorado State University predict an above normal season. From NOAA specifically, the predication is 13 to 19 named storms, 6 to 10 hurricanes and possibly 3 to 5 major hurricanes. Two big reasons why are because of the lack of an El Nino or La Nina and the trend of seeing warmer than normal ocean temperatures. And while these outlooks aren’t landfall forecasts for the United States, given these conditions there is the possibility for storms to move into the Gulf this year.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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

¡Que Onda! Magazine Houston – edición 1325

Rex Lindberg Interview: Pasadena Mayoral Candidate Shares Vision Ahead of June 7 Runoff

In a sit-down interview with Que Onda Magazine, Pasadena, Texas mayoral candidate Rex Lindberg discussed his vision for the city ahead of the June 7 runoff election. Early voting begins May 27 and ends June 3.

Lindberg, a Pasadena native and the city’s Community Relations Director for the past eight years, said he’s ready to lead based on his experience from within city government.

“I was born and raised in Pasadena; it’s my home,” Lindberg said.

“As the Community Relations Director and working out of the mayor’s office, being in the trenches with every kind of problem or disaster that could come up, I feel like I’m fully prepared and the most experienced person in this city to take on this challenge.”

He emphasized his close collaboration with police, fire, EMS, and city directors, and pointed to his first-place finish in the May 3 election—despite being a first-time candidate.

“I am honored and thankful for the support from voters across the City of Pasadena in our campaign,” he said.

Lindberg added that if elected, his priorities will include reliable city services, public safety, strong infrastructure, and keeping taxes low.

“Continuing forward, together, let’s ensure a Pasadena for everyone.”

Latino entrepreneurs and Pasadena mayoral candidate Rex Lindberg.

What Would You Do in Your First 100 Days?

Lindberg said he would prioritize meetings with all 28 department directors and leadership from police and fire departments.

“To ensure we are on the same page and focused on public safety and improving infrastructure.”

Will You Hire Bilingual Staff?

Lindberg highlighted the city’s large Latino population—nearly 70%—and affirmed the importance of language access in public service.

“Spanish is the first language of many households in Pasadena,” he said.

“I am proud that the City of Pasadena has a vibrant bilingual staff… [which] enhances city service and builds trust with the community.”

Are You Planning to Hire More Police Officers?

Public safety remains a top focus. Lindberg said the next police cadet class will boost staffing.

“Hiring more police officers will be a top priority to improve public safety and replace retiring police officers.”

“Our goal is to get us to 325 to serve the city’s population.”

How Would You Handle Public Safety?

Lindberg said Pasadena’s new Training Campus will help ensure high-quality preparation for officers. He supports using technology to help law enforcement and emphasized the value of a strong community presence.

“We will continue to expand law enforcement, have a visible presence in the community, and support our first responders.”

He also noted the importance of bilingual officers in connecting with Spanish-speaking residents.

How Will You Address Infrastructure Needs?

Flood mitigation will be a top priority. Lindberg said he has already helped repair “several hundred miles of streets and sidewalks.” He supports preventative maintenance and will pursue state and federal funding for larger projects.

“Voter approved bond proposals will only be considered for major projects that have the support from our civic and business community leadership.”

Latino Business Owners Back “El Compa Rex”

Latino entrepreneurs interviewed by Que Onda Magazine in Spanish shared strong support for Lindberg, who they say is the first local candidate to approach them for input. The group Amigos Empresarios affectionately call him “El Compa Rex.”

“We’re grateful to El Compa Rex and Willie Rios for asking for the Hispanic business community’s support,” said one business owner.

“No one has done that before. They gave us the opportunity to be heard, to be part of something. We’re 100% behind him.”

Another entrepreneur said: “We’re proud to work with someone who values the Latino community. Politics is about trust— and we trust El Compa Rex.”

A third added: “Amigos Empresarios started with 25 business owners and now we’re 70 strong. Our goal is to support politicians—no matter their background—if they’ll work with us and help us in return. That’s what really matters.”

Lindberg said the support from Latino business leaders means a lot.

“I’m honored to have the trust of local entrepreneurs who help drive Pasadena’s future.”

Election Day is Saturday, June 7. Early voting runs May 27–June 3.
For more on the city of Pasadena’s mayoral runnoff election, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Que Onda Magazine honra a las madres latinas del Condado de Harris

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Con música, comida gratuita, rifas y mensajes inspiradores, Que Onda Magazine celebró la tercera edición anual de “Ven Y Baila con Mamá” en Talento Bilingüe de Houston, un evento dedicado a honrar a las madres latinas del Condado de Harris que trabajan y lideran en sus comunidades.

Además de ofrecer un ambiente festivo con presentaciones musicales de los talentos latinos Marko González y Chloe Castellanos, el evento sirvió como una plataforma para resaltar historias de esfuerzo, superación y liderazgo femenino.

Madres trabajadores comparten sus inspiradoras historias.

Entre las invitadas destacadas estuvieron la alguacil Silvia Treviño del Precinto 6, la fundadora de Que Onda Magazine Lilia Esparza, la subalguacil del Condado de Harris Laura Magallanes, y Carla Goffney, ingeniera operadora del Departamento de Bomberos de Houston. Cada una compartió su experiencia personal como madre, profesional y servidora pública, demostrando con su presencia la diversidad y fortaleza de la mujer en sectores clave de la comunidad.

Three people stand on the stage posing for a photograph.

“¡Feliz Día de las Madres a todas las guerreras que están aquí!”, expresó la alguacil Treviño, quien relató su trayectoria desde sus comienzos humildes en el Northside de Houston hasta convertirse en la primera mujer hispana en ocupar su cargo.

“No fue fácil, pero trabajé duro para demostrar que las mujeres latinas también pertenecemos en posiciones de liderazgo y servicio.”

También habló de su reciente experiencia enfrentando el cáncer de mama. “Fue aterrador, pero la detección temprana me salvó la vida. Mujeres, háganse la mamografía. No esperen,” insistió, resaltando la importancia del autocuidado y la salud preventiva.

La psicóloga Adriana Villegas compartió un mensaje poderoso dirigido a las madres que sienten que deben sacrificar sus sueños por su rol en la familia.

“No somos solo madres—somos mujeres primero. Nuestros hijos necesitan vernos soñar, crecer y vivir con autenticidad.” Subrayó que lo más importante no es estar presente cada segundo, sino ofrecer tiempo de calidad con amor y propósito.

También participó la emprendedora Lisa Swift, quien compartió su historia de recuperación tras enfrentar una grave enfermedad que la llevó a necesitar un trasplante de pulmón. Durante su proceso de sanación, fundó SP Passion, una plataforma para empoderar a otras mujeres a través del apoyo emocional y el desarrollo personal.

“Cada desafío trae consigo una oportunidad de crecimiento. Cuiden de ustedes mismas primero. Solo así podremos servir a los demás con fuerza y compasión.”

El evento culminó en un ambiente de alegría, baile y hermandad, celebrando el papel esencial de las madres latinas en la vida familiar y comunitaria. Para muchas, fue una oportunidad no solo de ser reconocidas, sino también de reconectarse con su fuerza interior.

Gracias a nuestros patrocinadores por hacer este evento posible: Departamento de Bomberos de Houston, Crime Stoppers de Houston, Departamento de Policias de Houston, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Unidos, MECA Houston, Cantu’s Kitchen, Telemundo Houston, Texas Robot Show, Kater Catering, Las Ahogadas, Esfenix, CBBA Radio, Sylvia Reyes y Goya. 

Para mas de Que Onda entre la comunidad, siguenos en nuestro sitio web.

Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend in Houston with Free Festivals, Music, and Outdoor Fun

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As Memorial Day weekend approaches, both Houstonians and visitors can enjoy a vibrant array of events and experiences throughout the city and nearby areas.

From soulful tributes and maritime celebrations to lakeside relaxation and family movie nights, here are some of the best free or low-cost activities to kick off the unofficial start of summer.

Feel the Rhythm at Hermann Park with “Motown & More”

One of Houston’s favorite Memorial Day traditions returns with the Motown & More Show at Miller Outdoor Theatre. This high-energy, soulful weekend features some of the city’s top talent in an unforgettable tribute to the music that defined generations.

Dance and sing along to the hits of Marvin Gaye, Chaka Khan, The Isley Brothers, Rick James, Whitney Houston, SWV, and Frankie Beverly & Maze. Presented by the Bacement Foundation for the Arts, Dancin’ In The Street: Motown & More is more than a concert—it’s a cultural celebration of legacy, community, and rhythm.

Location: Miller Outdoor Theatre, Hermann Park

Full schedule here.
Admission: All performances are free and open to the public

Explore the Port of Galveston, Celebrating 200 Years

Head to Pier 21 in Galveston to explore interactive historical exhibits as the port celebrates its 200th anniversary.

Make it a full day: take the free Galveston-Bolivar Ferry, enjoy a dolphin sightseeing tour from the pier, and relax on the beaches along the Seawall.

Admission to Pier 21 and the Bolivar Ferry is free. Tickets for rides, parking at Pier 21, and dolphin tours are sold separately.

Pier 21 in Galveston. Courtesy: Indira Zaldivar.

Enjoy the Seaside Breeze at Kemah Boardwalk

For families and thrill-seekers, Kemah Boardwalk offers a charming coastal getaway. Enjoy rides, waterfront restaurants, and the adrenaline-pumping Beast speedboat ride across Galveston Bay. Whether you’re after relaxing views or heart-racing fun, Kemah is a coastal gem just a short drive from Houston.

Location: Kemah Boardwalk
Admission: Free; ride tickets sold separately

Family Movie Night at Discovery Green – May 24

Bring your blanket, lawn chairs, and favorite snacks to Discovery Green for a cozy free Family Movie Night under the stars. Enjoy a fun film in the heart of downtown, surrounded by Houston’s impressive skyline.

Food, beer, and wine will be available for purchase at The Lake House. Outside alcohol and glass containers are not allowed.

Location: Discovery Green, Downtown Houston
Date: May 24
Admission: Free

Lake Getaways: Lake Houston and Lake Conroe

If you’re craving a more laid-back weekend, Lake Houston and Lake Conroe offer perfect spots for boating, fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun. Pack a picnic and unwind by the water—just a short drive from the city.

Location: Lake Houston via Alexander Deussen Park and Lake Conroe
Admission: Free access at many public areas

Celebrate Freedom, Fun, and Community

Whether you’re grooving to Motown classics, exploring Galveston’s maritime history, or enjoying the lake breeze, Houston offers plenty of ways to enjoy Memorial Day Weekend. Best of all, many of these activities are free. It’s the perfect chance to gather with family and friends, honor the occasion, and create unforgettable memories.

Tip: Don’t forget to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and plan ahead for parking and crowds, especially at popular outdoor locations.

For the scoop on things to do, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Houston City Council approves $1B HPD contract making it ‘highest paid police department in Texas’

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — On Wednesday, the Houston City Council approved a nearly $1 billion agreement with the Houston Police Officers Union.

The agreement, shared with ABC13, outlines a series of raises for officers over the next five years. Documents show officers will receive a total pay bump of nearly 37%.

Houston Police Chief Noe Diaz said the agreement makes HPD “the highest paid police department in the State of Texas.”

Short staffing at the department has gripped headlines in recent years. Top brass, in part, blamed a recent suspended case scandal on the matter.

“These additional resources will be essential in retaining our seasoned officers while also growing our ranks with new recruits,” Diaz said.

Diaz told ABC13 he plans to poach officers from nearby law enforcement entities. He said more than 200 officers who identify themselves as employees of nearby departments used a QR code over a 24-hour period from Tuesday into Wednesday, indicating that they wanted more information on joining the department. Diaz said approximately 75 of the 200 officers identified themselves as members of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

On Wednesday, HPD posted a flyer on social media advertising a lateral officer class for September. The post stated that the department was seeking officers with three or more years of experience.

“That’s what we’re gonna target. The people that we already have here,” Diaz told ABC13.

In light of the HPD pay bump, the Sheriff’s Office requested pay raises from Harris County officials.

According to a press release from Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen’s Office, all eight Harris County Constables, two Harris County Commissioners, and law-enforcement labor leaders plan to host a press conference on Thursday addressing the “City of Houston’s historic investment Wednesday in police salaries and public safety.”

Houston City Council greenlit the HPD agreement, which is baked into the proposed FY 2026 budget, minutes after a public hearing on the budget proposal.

During the hearing, several council members and constituents expressed concern regarding proposed funding cuts to other city departments, which were also outlined in the proposal. Departments were initially asked to cut 10% to help combat a forecasted budget deficit of several hundred million.

The deficit was slashed to approximately $100 million and settled by drawing money down from the city’s fund balance. City Controller Chris Hollins and City Finance Director Melissa Dubowski have both equated the fund balance to Houston’s “savings account.”

“Today we are taking care of our police officers, but we also need to find ways to take care of the other employees as well,” said District F Council Member Edward Pollard.

The FY 26 budget proposal shows the Neighborhoods Department, for example, is set to lose half of its general fund money, dropping from $14 to $7 million. Similarly, the Health Department is set to experience a $7 million cut.

“I agree that police and fire need raises, but we’re taking it away from the other departments. Please, help us out,” pleaded Neartown Montrose Super Neighborhood President Jack Valinski.

Wednesday Diaz pushed back against insinuations that officer pay bumps resulted in cuts to other city departments. He told ABC13 that the department was also subject to recent cuts.

While uniformed officers will receive raises, many civilian HPD services are being consolidated with city departments. More than 100 department civilian employees also accepted a city employee retirement buyout package that went into effect May 1.

Diaz said the reorganization efforts resulted in the loss of approximately 50% of the civilian staff at HPD headquarters over the past seven months.

“There’s no blank check. There’s no endless pot of gold,” he stressed.

Houston attorneys say Venezuelan refugee disappeared from ICE custody in March

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Two Houston attorneys are fighting against the U.S. government to find out where a Venezuelan refugee was taken after disappearing from ICE custody in March.

Now, a federal judge is demanding that the U.S. government, including ICE and Homeland Security, confirm the whereabouts of Widmer Agelviz-Sanguino and restore attorney-client communication.

Attorneys representing Sanguino tell ABC13 that he, his two younger brothers, and his mom came from Ecuador to Houston in September. They say that’s when Agelviz-Sanguino was detained as the government accused him of having ties with the Venezuelan gang Tren De Aragua.

His attorney tells ABC13 he was taken to the Montgomery County ICE processing Center.

“Just the ability to speak to him would go a long way for us,” said his attorney, Javier Rivera.

Attorney Javier Rivera filed a lawsuit earlier this month detailing that he believed his client, Widmer Agelviz-Sanguino, was removed unlawfully by the U.S. in disregard for due process.

“Widmer and his family were referred to refugee resettlement in the United States through a UN program after being identified in Ecuador and were vetted and granted permission to come to the United States,” Rivera said.

Attorneys tell ABC13 that Sanguino, his two younger siblings, and his mom flew into Houston at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in September to start a new life.

“After being invited, after being provided travel documents to come to the United States, he was arrested at the airport and told he was a gang member and we’re going to deport you back to the place you fear most,” Rivera said.

Rivera says border agents questioned Sanguino about his arm tattoo of a rose, owl, and clock.

“They use tattoos as their end-all be-all for membership in this gang,” Rivera said.

Sanguino’s attorneys claim the tattoos all have special meanings to him. Rivera says the rose was a nod to Sanguino’s grandmother, who loved her rose bush garden. They say the owl and clock represent the area he grew up in, which had owls that would always come in the middle of the night.

Attorneys say Sanguino was immediately taken into ICE custody from the airport.

They say a few weeks later, Sanguino tried to file for asylum since the government told him he was no longer able to take part in the refugee resettlement program.

In March, days before a decision was supposed to come down on his case, his attorneys tell ABC13 they believe he was taken from the ICE facility in Montgomery County, and later deported on a flight to El Salvador to a prison called CECOT. No one has heard from Sanguino since. Eyewitness News was recently told that his family and legal team saw his name detailed in a list of people deported to CECOT from a media report.

“No criminal history. He has never been charged of any crimes either in Venezuela, Ecuador, or anywhere in the world,” Angel Rivera, another attorney representing Sanguino, said.

Angel Rivera says he last heard from him on March 10 or 11. He tells us Sanguino sounded scared on that call.

He says the flight to CECOT was a few days later.

It’s now May. Sanguino’s family and attorneys believe he’s in CECOT only because of media reports, but to this day, no one has heard from him. They say they haven’t been told exactly where he is or how he’s doing.

It’s what the Riveras are trying to get to the bottom of.

Some Harris County commissioners oppose Judge Lina Hidalgo’s request to fund trip to Paris

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This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. For more information, click here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo wants to use more than $20,000 in taxpayer dollars for an economic trip to Paris, but some commissioners think it should be funded another way.

On Thursday, Harris County commissioners will meet. On the agenda is an item for $23,300 requested by the county judge’s office for a delegation to travel for a week to Paris. The judge’s office said it’s an economic trip.

At first, Hidalgo tried to limit details. In prior meetings, she cited security concerns as a reason to avoid disclosing the location of the trip.

That prompted commissioners to look at the county’s policy when it comes to international travel.

“We are all stewards of taxpayer dollars,” Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones said. “I believe when we’re using public funds, we need to be completely transparent and open with the public.”

The Greater Houston Partnership said Hidalgo would be part of its efforts in June. As part of a collaboration with Rice University, it’s heading to Paris to expand the region’s global presence and attract business.

“The Greater Houston Partnership, in collaboration with Rice University, is leading a trade and investment mission to Paris aimed at positioning Houston as a global leader in technology and innovation. This delegation underscores our long-standing international engagement and growing presence in global innovation hubs. The mission includes participation in Viva Technology, Europe’s premier tech and innovation conference, as well as meetings with senior government officials, investors, and corporate decision-makers. These engagements are focused on advancing innovation, investment, and collaboration between Houston and key European markets.”

Commissioner Tom Ramsey told ABC13 he thinks the Greater Houston Partnership should fund Hidalgo’s trip, and not county taxpayers. University of Houston political expert Nancy Sims said that’s not necessarily a better option.

“For us as taxpayers, the question becomes would we rather the private sector pay for that, or would we rather invest a small amount of tax dollars and get potential significant returns,” Sims explained.

Experts though said the optics aren’t ideal. Recently, Hidalgo told deputies the county couldn’t afford to give them raises.

Now, she wants money for international travel. To give raises, county officials say it would cost $140 million.

The trip is about $23,000, and it’s not the only one her office has requested.

ABC13 looked at each agenda since last year. The judge’s office has requested more than $160,000 for travel.

“This one of those situations where elected officials find themselves in a no-win situation, yet it’s an important part of their job,” Sims explained.

The agenda item doesn’t just show the cost, but the dates. It shows the trip would take place June 8 to June 15.

ABC13 doesn’t have many details about the weeklong itinerary, but the Greater Houston Partnership said they plan to meet with tech leaders, senior government officials, and investors. Commissioners court is expected to vote on the item during Thursday’s meeting.