Where did the funds go?

COVID-19 relief money

Regarding “Half of Houston’s virus aid committed,” (A1, Aug. 21): I found it incredible that the city really has no idea how much of the COVID-19 federal money was spent to date and consequently what is left. I really found it incredible that of the $15 million in emergency funds extended on Wednesday, $2 million went to Houston’s artists! What type of emergency are they facing, shortage of paint brushes? Wouldn’t it be better if it went to more rent or small business assistance? But then again, this is the same council and mayor that can’t spend the Harvey housing assistance money they were given years ago and even had the state threaten to take it over. Brian Binash, Houston

Opposing guidance

Regarding “Area school chiefs push to reopen sooner,” (A3, Aug. 20): Spring Branch ISD along with nine others are using American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines as a fig leaf for their reckless decision to ignore relevant local guidance.

An essential lesson from COVID-19 is just how important it is to consider the local conditions. By choosing to not follow the guidance from local officials, these school districts are simply able to cherry pick what metrics they pay attention to, or to ignore local conditions altogether.

We have also seen how COVID-19 affects areas of different demographics unequally; transparency is critical in making sure that the systemic racism built into our health care system is not exacerbated by this crisis. Here again Spring Branch perpetuates the problem by issuing opaque guidance about how cases are communicated and under what circumstances schools will be closed. Will cases be treated differently in majority white schools versus majority minority schools? It is what it is.

Spring Branch ISD must follow the local guidelines and publish transparent communication and school closure processes before students commence in-person learning. Schools are accountable to their communities, and they are responsible for the safety of students and staff. Drew Davis, Houston

Karen Warren / Staff photographer Motorists wait at the Astros’ COVID-19 testing site Aug. 8. A reader questions Houston’s spending of COVID-19 relief funds.