Some Harris County commissioners oppose Judge Lina Hidalgo’s request to fund trip to Paris

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has submitted a request for over $23,000 in taxpayer funding to support a trip to Paris as part of an economic development delegation organized by the Greater Houston Partnership and Rice University. The goal of the trip is to attract foreign investment and strengthen international ties, according to Hidalgo’s office.

The trip includes airfare, lodging, transportation, and other expenses for Hidalgo and four staff members. It’s set to coincide with the Choose France Summit, hosted by President Emmanuel Macron, where leaders from around the world discuss global business strategies.

Critics argue the trip is an unnecessary expense, especially at a time when Harris County is dealing with pressing local issues like court backlogs, rising public safety concerns, and infrastructure needs. The county’s travel policy typically limits international trips to “extraordinary circumstances,” and many view this Paris excursion as an overreach.

This isn’t the first time Hidalgo has faced questions about priorities. Her office has previously been the subject of scrutiny following the indictment of three former aides over a COVID-19 contract scandal. While she has denied wrongdoing, the timing of her “mental health leave” amid those investigations drew raised eyebrows.

Supporters of the trip say it reflects a proactive approach to global economic development. Detractors say it feels more like a PR tour than meaningful governance, and that the county judge’s focus should be planted a bit closer to home. Paris may be lovely this time of year, but Harris County has its own fires to put out.

Thoughts?