Our country recently went through an important election, and nowadays politics and the news are more accessible than ever. We’re practically bombarded with information about laws, politicians, projects, and proposals every day.
This might seem overwhelming, and for some, it might inspire some ambition to take action. So, where do you start? We might all think to ourselves sometimes, “I could do better,” but for most of us, a seat in the Senate is not an attainable short-term goal.
Focusing on aiding and leading your local community can be a rewarding goal that helps you feel like you’re really making a difference. Although, before you start governing, you should learn the ins and outs of your municipal government and decide where you want to start!
City Government
Our wonderful City of Houston is gargantuan, and it’s made up of dozens of districts for schools, city councils, and cultural districts.
It’s the City Council members who oversee their respective district’s funds, agencies, and appointments. Houston has 16 council members, eleven of which oversee specific geographic districts, while the other five are known as at-large and serve the entire city.
You can view the districts on this map below.
You can then find more information on your district and council member on the City of Houston Council webpage. Everyone should familiarize themselves with the City of Houston website because it holds helpful resources, press releases, meeting notes, and contact info for you to reach out to your districts’ representatives.
Familiarizing yourself with the structure of your local government and attending City Council meetings, opens a new window will help you understand local issues, engage with elected officials, and give you an opportunity to share your voice.
County Government
All counties in Texas are governed by commissioners courts that consist of 5 members: the county judge and four commissioners that each oversee a precinct. They are each responsible for managing and maintaining infrastructure, public services, budgets, and more.
Below is a map of the commissioners' precincts for Harris County.
Much like the city council, the commissioners court holds meetings open to the public in-person and virtually. Here's the commissioners court webpage, where you can watch court meetings, review court agendas, and register to speak.
Just like the city, if you have any interest in political work, you should familiarize yourself with the county’s website, opens a new window and endeavor to learn more about what they do, who your representative is, and how to get involved. Harris County Precinct 2 has a helpful blog, opens a new window to help you more involved.
Besides the City of Houston, there are several other smaller municipalities within Harris County with their own city governments. These include Bellaire, Jacinto City, Pasadena, and West University Place. For a full list of towns and cities in Harris County with links to their websites, visit HCPL's Elections and Government webpage.
So, once you’ve figured out what district/precinct you’re a part of, how do you get involved? There are a couple of different ways to proceed.
Volunteering
Volunteering is an amazing way to help your community. It is easy, free, and can even have measurable health benefits, opens a new window!
It can also help you network and get your name out there if you’re interested in getting more involved in local politics. Below are some helpful links to find volunteer opportunities in Houston and Harris County.
Check out another HCPL blog, opens a new window about giving back for more resources on volunteering in Houston!
Boards, Commissions, and Advocacy Groups
If you feel like you have the time and expertise, you can apply to one of dozens of boards, committees, and councils that aid the City of Houston and Harris County in deciding policies, disputes, and plans for varying aspects of our community.
Boards exist for everything from transportation and recreation to policing and adjudication. You can browse each committee’s descriptions and qualifications and apply to one that you feel passionate about serving.
City of Houston
Harris County
While not the direct government, nonprofits and advocacy groups put in a lot of time, effort, and influence into specific social and political issues that you can help by volunteering or even working with them.
Working & Interning
Of course, if your goal is to eventually influence how local government is run, maybe try working for the city or county first! Civil servants (like your humble librarians) help uphold and maintain essential programs and infrastructure. Along with the great benefits, working for your local government can give you an imperative foundation for a future in local politics.
City of Houston
Harris County
Learn More
I hope that this blog can serve as a stepping stone and inspiration for you to put yourself out there and help your community! Now more than ever, we need to look out for each other to help make our city/county welcoming, supportive, and safe! Take a look at what books we have that can help you on your inaugural campaigns!
How to Run for Local Office : |HowExpert With Michael Cole
Add a comment to: How to Get Involved in Local Government