The Housing Director, Keith Bynam, is under scrutiny for allegedly violating city rules by providing exclusive deals on 174 laptops, iPads, and monitors to some employees. This action, uncovered in an investigation by KHOU 11, involved the sale of surplus equipment obtained in 2019 through a Hurricane Harvey outreach program that had concluded. The city policy dictates that surplus items must be auctioned online after being turned into a city-owned warehouse. However, records obtained by KHOU 11 reveal that the department sold the equipment directly to employees in violation of this policy.

Bynam’s Defense and Attempts to Rectify

Bynam defended his actions by stating that the equipment was assessed to have low market value due to wear and tear. He claimed ignorance about the policy violation and expressed a commitment to rectify the mistake after a policy reminder was sent by former Mayor Sylvester Turner. Despite his efforts, the city was only able to recover a fifth of the sold equipment.

Investigation and Accountability

Texas General Land Office Commissioner-elect Dawn Buckingham announced an immediate investigation into whether the equipment was purchased with federal disaster recovery funds. Bynam asserted that the items were purchased with city funds, arguing that the matter does not fall under the land office’s jurisdiction. Mayor John Whitmire criticized the Turner administration for not taking further action and pledged to collaborate with the land office to ensure departmental compliance.

Deeper Issues in the Housing Department

Buckingham believes that the alleged violation is indicative of deeper issues within the Housing and Community Development Department under Mayor Turner’s leadership. She highlighted a pattern of corruption and cover-ups, expressing concern about the entrenched nature of these issues in Houston.

Turbulent Relationship with Texas General Land Office

The Texas General Land Office had a turbulent relationship with the Turner administration, particularly concerning the distribution of Harvey relief dollars. The initial exclusion of Houston and Harris County from the distribution of $1.3 billion in Harvey mitigation funds led to controversy. Despite later allocations, Houston officials argued that the funding fell short of their needs.

Past Allegations and Current Defense

Bynam, the Housing Director, defended his department against corruption allegations, pointing out that no substantiated claims had been made. He mentioned previous accusations by Tom McCasland, then-housing director, against Mayor Turner, which resulted in no charges being filed after investigation by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.

Improved Relations under New Leadership

Bynam stated that relations between his department and the land office improved since Dawn Buckingham assumed office in January 2023. He expressed surprise at Buckingham’s accusations and asserted that there was no indication of corruption within the department.

Optimism for Change in Leadership

Buckingham, a former state senator, expressed optimism about the shift in city leadership. She, along with Mayor John Whitmire, emphasized their commitment to serving the public without shortcuts or self-service. Both leaders pledged to navigate bureaucracy and prevent similar problems in the future.

Mayor Whitmire’s Pledge and Positive Relationships

Mayor Whitmire, with five decades of legislative experience, pledged during his campaign to foster stronger ties with state officials. He cited Buckingham as an example of positive relationships he aimed to build in his inaugural address, emphasizing the goal of effective public service.

Building Transparency and Accountability

The alleged violation in the Housing Department brings to light concerns about transparency and accountability. The ongoing investigations and collaborative efforts between city officials and the land office underscore the importance of addressing deeper issues within the department and fostering positive relationships to ensure effective governance and disaster recovery efforts.