The city of Houston said it wanted public input on what to rename Cesar Chavez Boulevard – then began issuing work orders in the middle of the stated public comment period directing crews to replace existing street signs with “Dolores Huerta Boulevard” signs, records show.
The city’s public comment period ran from April 1 through May 1 and was intended to “ensure opportunities for public input” after the New York Times reported allegations of sexual abuse against Chavez, prompting local and national leaders to reconsider honoring the civil rights icon.
But work orders obtained through an open records request show Houston Public Works began directing crews to swap in Huerta signs as early as April 14, weeks before the public comment period closed or City Council considered a new name…