URGENT – Harris County Precinct 3 Funding At Risk
This message is to make you aware of an item placed on the Commissioners Court agenda meeting for tomorrow, November 12th, by Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Item #341 reads:
“Request by the Commissioner of Precinct 1 for discussion and possible action regarding the equitable allocation of Harris County and HCTRA transportation and infrastructure funding for community investment among precincts, including but not limited to mobility funds, general funds, and proceeds from debt.”
Commissioner Ellis has stated in a previous meeting that he believes the funding distribution per Precinct is not fair, and that he intends to change the formula. This would result in a substantial amount of funding being taken away from Precinct 3.
Here are some important details for you to know:
Redistricting 2021:
Commissioner Rodney Ellis proposed a new Precinct boundary map, which was approved 3-2 with Commissioners Cagle and me in the opposition, in October 2021. This new map was implemented in 2022 and is the Precinct boundary map you know today.
The burden of the new boundaries:
These new boundaries gave Precinct 3 the responsibility of 47% of all unincorporated Harris County, while Precinct 1 was given 15% responsibility, Precinct 2 with 15% responsibility, and Precinct 4 with 23% responsibility. While the responsibilities per Precinct fluctuated, the funding percentages per Precinct did not – leaving Precinct 3 at a significant financial disadvantage.
State support received in April 2025:
The State demanded that Harris County mitigate its Harris County Toll Road mobility funding inequities at the local level, otherwise risk having the State to disburse the funds accordingly. Commissioners Court agreed unanimously on a formula that considered road responsibility, current road conditions, and previous funding allocations. This resulted in Precinct 1 receiving 21%, Precinct 2 and 4 receiving 23% each, and Precinct 3 receiving 31% of mobility funding.
Funding is now at risk:
Even though this funding was approved unanimously and Harris County Commissioners testified in front of the State that the issue was resolved, Commissioner Rodney Ellis intends to now change the formula – risking millions of dollars being taken away from Precinct 3, therefore risking critical improvements and needs in your communities.
Share your experience:
If you feel Precinct 3 has been great stewards of your tax dollars and made an impact in your community, we ask that you make your voice heard and share your experience with Commissioners Court tomorrow morning beginning at 9 AM.
You can sign up to speak here: Harris County Commissioners Court Appearance Request Form
Reference item number 341 regarding Precinct funding allocations.
Full agenda can be found here: Harris County Court Agenda
Thank you for your support.
Please share and forward to anyone who would be interested.
Best regards,
Jerry Homan