After a 15-month delay, Houston has finally unveiled former Mayor Sylvester Turner’s portrait at City Hall, following concerns raised by city officials and discussions over the selection process involving Turner’s family.
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The portrait of former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has now been unveiled at City Hall, concluding a 15-month delay that raised concerns among city officials and the public.
At the city council meeting on Wednesday, Houston Controller Chris Hollins inquired about the absence of Turner’s portrait from the gallery of former mayors. Hollins highlighted that although Turner's recent passing should not have been the trigger for action, the city had a responsibility to his family and the residents of Houston to pay him the respect he deserved.
Council member Tiffany Thomas reiterated these sentiments, affirming that Turner had personally chosen his portrait prior to departing from office.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire responded to allegations of a city delay, clarifying that Turner’s family had not yet chosen a final image for the portrait. “We’re waiting for the family to choose which photo they prefer,” Whitmire stated, noting that the city was giving them plenty of time to make their decision.
Even with this clarification, Turner’s portrait was put up the following day. A representative from the mayor’s office subsequently indicated that the placement had been arranged irrespective of Hollins’ remarks.
Alongside the portrait, Hollins suggested renaming a portion of Bagby Street to “Sylvester Turner Avenue” in recognition of the late mayor’s contributions.
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