Houston Controller Chris Hollins has certified Mayor John Whitmire's proposed $7. 5 billion city budget, clearing a key procedural hurdle before Houston City Council considers final approval.

But Hollins made clear that certification should not be mistaken for support.

In a letter sent to Mayor Whitmire and City Council members, Hollins stressed that his decision was based on his legal responsibilities as controller and not an endorsement of the administration's financial strategy.