How was Parker’s First Year?

It’s now officially a year since Annise Parker was elected Mayor of Houston. We all know that she’s the first openly gay big-city mayor that this country has ever had, but how do you feel she’s done in this challenging and troubled situation?

First, some background to put it all in perspective. Parker is no stranger to firsts, having been the first openly gay elected official in Houston back in 1997 when she secured a vacated city council seat. At the time, that achievement in itself would have earned her a place in local history, but Parker wasn’t done, by a long shot.

Parker proved the election was no fluke both by twice winning the re-election and achieving numerous honors and distinctions while in office. The City Controller position became hers in 2003, and ran unopposed in 2005, so basically, nothing stood in her way.

It was largely her experience in that position that recommended her as a Mayor in economically difficult times. With record levels of people experiencing unemployment and home mortgage refinancing issues, her work would have already been cut out for her — but she was also following Bill White, generally regarded as a popular and successful Mayor, especially in the matter of the city’s finances.

So what do you think? I’ve kept my opinions out of this as much as possible, hoping to get unbiased feedback from the community. Are you overjoyed about Annise or non-plussed? Do you feel that she’s on track to fulfilling her promises? What actions or decisions over the past year have confirmed or surprised you?