Spokane City Council Delays Vote on Housing Ordinance

Houston Mayor John Whitmire's proposal to ban protests outside politicians' homes has sparked significant debate, especially after protests against his stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. The City Council has postponed a vote to further evaluate the proposal, which aims to prohibit 'focused picketing' within 200 feet of targeted dwellings. In Syracuse, a lawmaker blocked a housing improvement program due to insufficient community outreach, prompting city officials to plan a meeting for better engagement. Meanwhile, in Spokane, the City Council deferred a vote on an ordinance to protect homeless individuals from discrimination, with concerns raised about potential negative implications and alleged pressure from the mayor's office. Residents expressed mixed opinions, with some supporting the ordinance as a means to uphold the rights of homeless citizens. The Spokane ordinance will be revisited in two weeks, as council members seek additional community input before deciding.