Among the runoff elections, only one does not include a candidate that was endorsed by the Chron in the first round. That race is City Council At Large #1, and today the Chron made their choice for the runoff by endorsing Karen Derr.
[Derr] would bring to the position well-honed expertise on quality-of-life issues, including historic preservation and protecting neighborhoods from unwise development.
“We have neighborhood problems that affect our economic growth in Houston,” says Derr, pointing to the negative impact of flooding, high crime and deteriorating infrastructure. If elected she promises to push for more neighborhood patrols by police, an expanded recycling program and improved drainage. She envisions the city evolving into a series of communities connected by expanded light rail, improved bus service and more hike-and-bike trails. “We need more connectivity where areas can keep their culture and distinctive architecture while eliminating blight,” says Derr.
Congrats to Team Derr on getting the endorsement. I presume from the wording of this piece, as well as their past history, that all of the relevant November endorsements will carry through, meaning Ronald Green for Controller, Sue Lovell in At Large #2, Jolanda Jones in At Large #5, Lane Lewis in District A, Mike Laster in District F, Anna Eastman in HISD I, and Adrian Collins in HISD IX are all still their recommended choices. That leaves the Mayor’s race, which as we know was dual-endorsed in the first go-round. You’ll see it in tomorrow’s paper, and I’ll blog about it then, but the word is already out that the Chron has endorsed Annise Parker for the runoff. Yes, no twofers this time – they made a choice, and it’s the right one. More on that tomorrow.