Some members of Houston City Council submitted their amendments to the mayor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-27.

What’s new: Several amendments addressed the newly proposed $5 solid waste fee.

Council members Mario Castillo and Alejandra Salinas submitted amendments that would use the city’s Water Aid to Elderly Residents Fund (WATER) to assist helping residents pay for the newly proposed fee. Salinas also proposed to move $3 million from a $37.5 million allocation for Houston Public Works management consulting services to illegal dumping enforcement and cleanup instead.

Council member Joaquin Martinez made amendments that would require an analysis before making future solid waste fee increases, to determine whether it could be eliminated for seniors, veterans and disabled residents. He also included an amendment that would make the $5 fee permanent unless council voted to change it, as well as cap it at $25.

Also of note: Other amendments included addressing oversight and transparency needs and city parks.

Hey Darlin’ Saloon is now open in the Heights, bringing a Southern-style bar and late-night hangout to 4002 N. Main St., Houston.

The details: The new saloon opened May 28 in the former Space Cadet Bar and Grill space, which served Cajun, Tex-Mex and barbecue dishes before closing in 2024, a representative confirmed.

Owners James Cone and Derek Dobbins previously told Community Impact the business was designed to bring “cold beer, great food and friendly, attentive service with a smile” to the neighborhood.

A closer look: The concept is also meant to be pet- and family-friendly during the day while serving as a welcoming gathering place for the community, Dobbins said.

The owners completed a full remodel of the former Space Cadet building before opening, with Dobbins previously saying the goal was to turn the saloon into a “true local staple.”

• 4002 N. Main St., Houston

Restrooms have begun to reopen at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport as part of a $30 million project, according to a news release from Houston Airports.

The openings are a part of the multiyear initiative—which sparked from a challenge by Houston Mayor John Whitmire in 2024—to modernize the approximately 20-year-old restroom facilities of both of Houston’s airports, per the release.

What's changed: In the first five months of this year, restrooms near IAH gates A12, A25 and D7 as well as Hobby gates 28-32, per the release. Renovated restrooms in Terminal A baggage claim at IAH are expected to open before the summer.

Restroom renovations include:

• Expanded stalls to accommodate carry-on luggage
• Improved Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility
• New flooring, wall finishes and modern lighting
• Upgraded fixtures for durability and cleanliness
• Smart technology to alert staff of bathroom needs

The YMCA of Greater Houston has unveiled its scheduled summer programs to promote active lifestyles among children and teens and provide access to water safety education, according to a news release.

What you need to know: Throughout the summer, the organization’s programming will include:

• Camp Cullen: The outdoor camp experience aims toward confidence building and soft skill development for youth through water sports, adventure courses, horseback riding and other activities.
• Day camps: Engagement-driven experiences utilize science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning; creative arts; sports; water safety education; and outdoor recreation to encourage youth productivity.