Today, Harris County Commissioners instructed the Harris County Attorney and Department of Intergovernmental and Global Affairs to work with the City of Houston and City Attorney to negotiate compensation for Houston’s first responders for responses on the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) system.  

United in their call for a local solution to a local problem, Commissioners were fully aligned in supporting direct negotiations. Today’s meeting reflects a unified commitment to Harris County’s infrastructure and public safety investments and finding a local solution with the City of Houston 

“The county is ready to work in any form or fashion with the city going forward,” said Commissioner Tom Ramsey from the dais. “The message today is we want to work with the city.” 

“We're deeply invested in infrastructure and public safety, and we're deeply committed to working out a local solution to a local issue,” said Commissioner Lesley Briones. “So, we thank in advance the county Attorney's office for their ongoing partnership.” 

Commissioners Court will meet again on May 22. At that time, the Court can formalize a thoughtful, fair, mutually beneficial agreement that reflects a data-driven solution with local governments working in partnership. 

Background: The filing of Senate Bill 2722 and House Bill 5177 proposed a state mandate to shift toll road revenue away from critical infrastructure needs. In Austin, legislators have expressed a clear preference for the issue to be resolved locally. In recent weeks, Commissioners and their staff have worked closely with legislative offices and committee staff to help shape the priorities for a local Interlocal Agreement. 

Since it opened, HCTRA has entirely funded public safety operations on the toll system through toll revenues. HCTRA operates 132 miles of toll road across Harris County. Over the last decade, HCTRA and contracted Harris County Constables have handled approximately 98% of all emergency responses on the toll roads. Between 2022 and 2024 alone, County resources responded to over 300,000 incidents while the Houston Fire and Police Departments responded to fewer than 3,000, or 1%, each. 

To maintain this level of service, HCTRA’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget includes $42.7 million for toll road public safety, including $25 million for agreements with all eight Harris County Constables. The forthcoming agreement will ensure continued support for first responders while reinforcing data-driven budgeting and Harris County’s longstanding investment in toll road safety.