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Monthly Newsletter September 6, 2019  Issue 80

Residents of District E,  Tuesday, October 1 is National Night Out. 
Since its founding in 1984, National Night Out has served as a
national crime-prevention initiative aimed at furthering police-
community partnerships, fostering neighborhood camaraderie
and deterring criminal activity. Each year my staff and I enjoy
visiting as many neighborhoods as possible and interacting
with the community. I encourage you all to take the opportunity
to participate in these events. 

Additionally, as this year is an election year, and I encourage
everyone to register to vote. If you are not already, you can
register online by visiting VoteTexas.gov or by visiting the Harris
County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office, which has many branches
across the city. I am proud to announce that I formally submitted
my paperwork to run for another term for the District E City
Council position.  Finally, I cordially invite you to mark your
calendars for the following upcoming Town Hall Meetings that
will be held in District E: 

Southeast Houston/Clear Lake
Thursday, October 10
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Space Center Houston – Special Events Building
1601 NASA Parkway
Houston, TX 77058 

Kingwood
Thursday, October 17
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Kingwood Community Center – Main Room
4102 Rustic Woods Drive
Houston, TX 77345 

As always, I have extended the invitation to several city
departments including Houston Public Works as well as
Houston Parks and Recreation, and a variety of community
speakers. In addition to various information tables for
residents to peruse before the meetings begin. 

In Clear Lake, we have invited the folks from Commissioner Adrian Garcia’s Office to provide an update on El Dorado Boulevard. Exploration Green has also been invited to participate in our town hall to discuss their progress towards completion. We look forward to hearing these updates and learning of the
community’s questions, comments and concerns. If you have never been before, it is the perfect opportunity to be engaged in your community and have your questions answered. We hope you will join us. Please feel free to invite a neighbor, friend or colleague! Everyone is more than welcome to attend.

In Kingwood, we will have the opportunity to hear from Chip
Place of the Houston Parks Board, which is currently finalizing
design for a new trail system along the San Jacinto River as
part of Bayou Greenways 2020. Additionally, Stan Sarman, the
Chair of the TIRZ 10 board, will be discussing exciting news
regarding the path forward for the expansion of Northpark
Drive. Chuck Gilman, with the San Jacinto Water Authority,
will also be in attendance to provide an update on the
Governor’s mandated Regional Watershed Study.

Thank you to all who have supported me thus far and for the
privilege to serve. I feel honored and blessed to have had the
opportunity and hope to be able to continue to represent the
constituents of District E.

Sincerely,

Dave Martin

The District E Office
900 Bagby, First Floor
Houston, TX 77002 
Contact Information Email: districte@houstontx.gov
Phone: (832) 393-3008
Fax: (832) 393-3279
 District E Team
Jessica Beemer, Chief of Staff
Katherine Cunningham, Deputy Chief of Staff
Jordan McGinty, South Sector Manager
Clarissa Perez, North Sector Manager

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Council District Service Funds – HPD Clear Lake Division and HFD Stations 72 and 94

Each year the council office reaches out to all police and fire stations serving District E communities requesting a list of supplies needed to be approved by legal and the administration. Once our office receives approval from the Legal Department and the Administration, the District E office works to fund as many approved requests as possible. Unfortunately not all stations submit requests for our office to consider, we do our best to fund as many of these requests as possible. 

This Fiscal Year, Council Member Martin allocated $21,552.50 of his Council District Service Funds (CDSF) to assist the Houston Police Department (HPD). $1,552.50 of these CDSF dollars were made available for the purchase of 10 sets of rechargeable road flares, requested by the HPD Clear Lake Division. These road flares are invaluable on accidents scenes to redirect traffic, and this will allow all units on night shift to be equipped with these devices.  

Council Member Martin has received numerous complaints, calls and emails, regarding the condition of the underpass at Edgebrook and the Gulf Freeway. To help address that issue, Council Member Martin has allocated $20,000 for completion of an HPD Vice, Narcotics, Homeless and Differential Response Team Overtime Initiative to be used in September and October to target crime along the Gulf Freeway between Edgebrook and South Shaver. The goal of the initiative is to abate prostitution, narcotics and other criminal activity taking place along the Gulf Freeway.

Bird nuisance control measures ($32,173.00) for Houston Fire Department Station 94 were approved to protect equipment. The purchase of an HFD extractor initiative ($12,000.00) for HFD Station 72 was also approved and will allow members to wash their fire gear following an incident. Through this extraction process, harmful products of combustion will be removed. Additional allocations for this initiative are planned for next spring and summer. The requests were submitted in July and HFD was awaiting completion of appropriations which occurred earlier this week. Our office hopes to have these items purchased and delivered by the end of October.

Council District Service Funds – HPD Kingwood Division and Lake Patrol

This Fiscal Year, Council Member Martin was happy to allocate $14,456 of his Council District Service Funds to assist the HPD Kingwood Division. These dollars were used for HPD support equipment such as a new radar unit for patrol, hitch adapters to transport bike units, a 24 volt jump box for a high water rescue vehicle, as well as equipment to combat illegal dumping throughout the community. In addition to this equipment, Council Member Martin was able to provide $29,065 to fund overtime initiatives for the Kingwood Division as well as Lake Patrol.

Complete Pavement Replacement at Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center

On Monday, August 1, Houston Public Works began a complete pavement replacement at the Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center. Over the last couple of years, Council Member Martin has provided patching of potholes within the recycling center. Understanding these asphalt patches are often short term solutions, Council Member Martin continued to push for a more substantial long-term project, which has been officially completed as of Saturday, August 31. The scope of work included replacing all existing asphalt with concrete to improve driving conditions and to preserve and prolong the life of the road base. 

Woodland Hills at Northpark Intersection Overlay Project

Council Member Martin is happy to report the Woodland Hills at Northpark Intersection Overlay Project is now complete. The project began Tuesday, July 23 and the resurfacing of the intersection was completed on Friday, July 26. Striping was completed on Wednesday, July 31 and loop detectors were installed on Friday, August 2. The cost of the project was $134,415.70, which   was funded through Council Member Martin’s Fiscal Year 2018 Council District Service Funds.
Council Member Martin is excited to see this intersection project come to fruition as it has been on Houston Public Works’ queue since it was first submitted in 2017.

Backpack Delivery

On August 3, District E staff headed out in the district to distribute 500 donated backpacks from this year’s Back to School Fest, hosted by Mayor Sylvester Turner.

The Mayor’s Back to School Fest provides Houston area students with some of the resources they need to start the school year off right.

Thanks to the Mayor’s Back to School Festival which helped supply Humble ISD and Clear Creek ISD students with the school supplies!

Taylor Gully

On Monday, July 15, Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) began a desilt project on the upstream portion of Taylor Gully from Bassingham to the Harris County line. The work is expected to be completed by the end of this month, weather permitting. The work effort has include desilting the channel, reconstructing the backslope interceptor structures, installing new backslope interceptor pipes, regrading backslope swales, installing new gates and signs, and resetting the covers of the “E type” inlets that have been damaged.

This maintenance project became a priority for Council Member Martin after the May 2019 rain events that flooded over 300 homes in the Kingwood community. During these rain events, intense rainfall rates greatly exceeded internal and primary drainage system capabilities resulting in significant and at times deep street flooding and sheetflow. On May 8, City of Houston contractors, as well as Harris County Flood Control District, investigated their designated drainage systems and determined the flooding was potentially caused by development upstream in Montgomery County that sent large volumes of sheetflow into the Elm Grove subdivision and Taylor Gully (G103-80-03-1).

After completing this reach of channel, HCFCD staff will investigate Taylor Gully further downstream, where HCFCD completed a desilt job in the spring of 2019. HCFCD will open up any constrictions and desilt the channel if necessary

City of Houston Garbage Service Improvements with New Contract 

On August 7, City Council voted to approve experienced disaster relief companies to augment the city’s trash pickup operations while the City Solid Waste Management Department (SWD) continues to receive new vehicles to replace its aged truck fleet.

DRC Emergency Services, LLC and Nola Construction and Development Group, LLC will be paid up to $1.9 million from the city’s fund balance to supplement the city services through December 2019.

The contractors’ crews will work with city forces to collect junk waste and clear illegal dump sites across the city. Removing illegally dumped material from ditches and roadsides reduces the threats of drainage blockages during hurricane season and disease-carrying pests.

The City has ordered 175 new SWD vehicles, including 90 garbage/recycling trucks, which will replace half of the SWD fleet. Residents should already see the new trucks in their neighborhoods as the additional units are being delivered through April 2020. Since early 2019, the City has leased eight trucks and hired 10 driver/pickup crews from outside companies to supplement curbside pickup service while cities around the country have dealt with a shortage of drivers.

Bens Branch Conveyance Restoration Project

Bens Branch, a channel within the Kingwood community stretching from Northpark to the West Fork of the San Jacinto River, was completely inundated with water and sediment during Hurricane Harvey. As a result, a considerable buildup of sediment infiltrated the southern bends of the channel south of Kingwood Drive around Town Center and behind the Lake Houston YMCA. This stretch of Bens Branch Channel from Kingwood Drive to about 1,800 linear feet downstream of West Lake Houston Parkway, is owned by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD).

As property owners of this channel, HCFCD began their Conveyance Restoration Project on August 19. The project will include removing and disposing of approximately 76,285 cubic yards of sediment accumulations. This will be a multi-step process. First, HCFCD’s contractor, Solid Bridge Construction, LLC, must remove the soil from the creek. Then the soil must drain and dry. Finally, dump trucks will remove the excavated material. Based on the current timeline, the project is scheduled to be complete by summer 2020, weather permitting.

Please be aware that construction equipment will access the work area via the established access points from Kingwood Drive, Bens View, West Lake Houston Parkway, and Denmere. The contractor will use heavy construction equipment such as dump trucks, excavators and bulldozers. Motorists are urged to be alert to truck traffic when passing near construction access points.

For any questions or concerns, please contact the Harris County Flood Control District by calling (713) 684-4197 or visiting their website. For more information on HCFCD projects in the Kingwood area, please visit this link.

Meadowcreek Village Civic Club

On Thursday, August 8, Council Member Martin had the opportunity to speak to the Meadowcreek Village Civic Club at their bi-monthly meeting. Council Member Martin briefed residents on the latest achievements at City Hall such as passing the Fiscal Year 2020 City Budget, and the new Solid Waste Department contract passed by Council to improve the City’s trash pickup operations by bringing in experienced disaster relief companies. In addition to these triumphs, Council Member Martin also updated residents on the recently completed safe sidewalk project completed along the 5400 block of Allendale as well as the completed pavement replacement at Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center.

LHACC Focus on Federal Government Luncheon

On Thursday, August 27, District E staff attended the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce Focus on Federal Government Luncheon featuring Cal Thomas, a veteran of broadcast and print journalism. Thomas discussed his perspective on current federal politics and shared insight on how those issues will affect the Lake Houston Area.

Thank you to the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce for organizing another successful event and to Cal Thomas for taking the time to speak with the Lake Houston community.

BayTran Luncheon

Thank you to BayTran for inviting Council Member Martin to introduce Mayor Sylvester Turner at the August 27^th luncheon. 

Mayor Turner provided an update on transportation efforts in and around the Clear Lake area, as well as the growth that is impacting our commutes.

Summer Creek Rotary

On Tuesday, August 27, Council Member Martin had the pleasure of speaking with the Summer Creek Rotary Club. Council Member Martin discussed ongoing projects in the Lake Houston area, as well as how far we have come since Harvey.

Thank you to community member, Deborah Rose Miller, for the invitation to attend and speak with the members of the Summer Creek Rotary Club.

Please note that if you live in the Summer Creek and Summerwood communities, the District E Office is happy to verify your jurisdiction within the City of Houston. You can contact the District E Office with your verification request by calling (832) 393-3008 or emailing districte@houstontx.gov

Edgebrook Drive Safe Sidewalk Project

Council Member Martin recently allocated $34,575.00 from his Fiscal Year 2020 Council District Service Funds for the sidewalk repairs on the southern side of the 600 to 800 blocks of Edgebrook Drive in an effort to provide increased pedestrian mobility as well as safety. Houston Public Works was able to begin and complete the work within the month of August. Thank you to Houston Public Works for working so quickly on this project.

Forest Cove Townhomes Cleanup

On Tuesday, August 14, the City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department, under the direction of Harry Hayes, removed large piles of debris and tires located at the Forest Cove Townhomes on Marina Drive.

District E would like to thank the following staff members from the Solid Waste Management Department: Carolyn Wright, Javier Frutos, Daniel Rojas, and Director Hayes, as well as the following staff members from the Department of Neighborhoods: Director TaKasha Francis, Landon Taylor, Alvin Byrd, Reggie Harris, and Stephanie Mingo-Byrd for their quick response to this request. Your efforts in keeping our community beautiful are greatly appreciated. 

The District E office continues to monitor the purchase and demolition of these properties located in the Forest Cove Townhome Community as part of the Harris County Flood Control District Home Buyout Program.

HCFCD has purchased all units in the following buildings: 1102 Marina, 1050 Marina, 1060 Marina, 1040 Marina, 1030 Marina, 930 Aqua Vista, and 803/5 Timberline. There are approximately 19 more units to purchase to have complete ownership.

The following buildings have been demolished: 1050 Marina, 1060 Marina, and 803/5 Timberline. HCFCD is in the process of demolishing 1102 Marina, 1040 Marina, 1030 Marina, and 930 Aqua Vista. As HCFCD completes ownership on the 19 remaining units, the demolitions of those buildings will follow.

Street Lights Installation Completed in Highland Acres Neighborhood

On August 30, 2019, Houston Public Works recently completed the installation of 12 street lights along Mize Road, Shoppe Road, Keith Avenue, Bystreet Road, 1^st Street and 2^nd Street in the Highland Acres neighborhoods. Thank you to Mr. Gustavo Reyes, a community leader in the Highland Acres area, for requesting these street lights to provide better lighting for students walking to and from school in the early mornings. 

The City of Houston installs street lights on City owned streets to illuminate the roadway. They are not installed on private streets, parking lots or for security lighting. A street segment must be in the City limits in order to be eligible for street lights. All street lights are installed, owned and maintained by Center Point Energy (formerly Reliant Energy HL&P). The City must approve a light before it can be installed. Once it is installed, the City pays the monthly operating and maintenance cost of the light. If you are interested in requesting street lights in your neighborhoods, please click here.

Kingwood METRO Park & Ride

Council Member Martin would like to make Lake Houston residents aware that METRO has decided against relocating the Kingwood METRO Park and Ride, located near the intersection of West Lake Houston Parkway and Kingwood Drive.

This is great news for the community and the District E office thanks those that contacted METRO in opposition of this project.

Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon

On Wednesday, August 28, District E staff attended the monthly Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon at Lakewood Yacht Club. The luncheon program included a Congressional Panel Update featuring Congressman Brian Babin, Congressman Pete Olson and Congressman Randy Weber. The congressmen updated the members on many areas they remain passionate about: Johnson Space Center and human flight exploration, energy and industry, as well as our current booming economy in response to Hurricane Harvey.

 Royston Drive Rehabilitation Project

Council Member Martin would like to thank Houston Public Works crews that completed a recent desilting project at the ditch along Royston Drive adjacent to Sorters McClellan Road. The project included removing debris and sediment, as well as re-establishing the ditch.

District E would like to thank Brandon Nickerson and Michael Wilson of Houston Public Works for their assistance with completing this much needed project. To report drainage issues or submit requests to have City of Houston drainage systems inspected, please contact Houston 3-1-1 by calling (713) 837-0311.

TxDOT Construction on the I-69 Eastex Southbound Bridge Over Little York

The Texas Department of Transportation will begin major work on the I-69 Eastex Freeway southbound bridge over Little York this weekend. Crews will demolish and reconstruct the bridge deck.

The project begins today, September 6 and is anticipated to take a month and half to complete.

Starting Friday, September 6 at 9 p.m. through Monday, September 9 at 5 a.m., crews will close all mainlanes of I-69 Eastex southbound at Little York to prepare the roadway for the reconfigured lanes. Traffic will be detoured to the I-69 Eastex southbound exit to Hopper, continue on the frontage road through the signalized intersections to reenter the I-69 Eastex southbound mainlanes.

There will also be additional closures during construction:

• I-69 Eastex southbound from Mount Houston to Little York, two alternating mainlanes will be closed starting on Monday, September 9 at 5am until Wednesday, October 16 at 5 a.m.
• I-69 Eastex southbound entrance ramp from Mount Houston will be closed starting Thursday, September 5 at 8 p.m. until Wednesday, October 16 at 5 a.m.
• I-69 Eastex southbound exit ramps to Jensen, Saunders and Parker will be closed Monday, September 23 at 5 a.m. until Wednesday, October 16 at 5 a.m. Traffic will be detoured to the Tidwell exit ramp and U-turn onto the I-69 Eastex northbound frontage road to reach Jensen, Saunders and Parker.

For more information on this project, please visit the TxDOT website. For scheduled lane closures in the Houston District including this project go to www.houstontranstar.org. All closures are subject to change due to inclement weather.

To stay updated on TxDOT projects, please follow them on Twitter @TxDOTHouston and Facebook at www.facebook.com/txdothouston.

Lake Houston Maintenance Program

As residents in the Lake Houston and Kingwood Area see local projects starting, Council Member Martin is continuing to work behind the scenes on a long-term maintenance program for the San Jacinto River and Lake Houston. This program will regularly address issues like sedimentation levels in the river and lake as well as the removal of floatable debris. 

This fiscal year, Council Member Martin proposed a budget amendment that for the first time creates a funding mechanism for a Lake Houston Maintenance Program utilizing existing revenue during this year’s budget process and it achieved full support of City Council. Before Council Member Martin’s amendment was passed this year, a program to maintain Lake Houston for any other purpose than as a drinking water facility did not exist.

This program will use revenue from boat dock and permit fees on Lake Houston that previously went into the City of Houston General Fund to kick start regular maintenance of the river and lake to reduce the risk of flooding increasing public safety. Council Member Martin has been working diligently with Houston Public Works, Coastal Water Authority, Harris County Flood Control, San Jacinto River Authority, and the State of Texas to identify a more robust, sustainable, and reoccurring funding source for these activities. Additionally, the Council Member is looking to these agencies for partnerships in maintenance to further the benefits for the community.

The District E office is currently is in the preliminary steps of creating this program and will continue to update the community as progress is made.

Coffee & Conversations with Houston First Responders

Chick-fil-A 45 & Almeda, in partership with the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce will be providing the opportunity to honor and get to know our first responders. Residents have the chance to engage in conversations and “touch a truck” while starting the day with a delicious cup of coffee! 

The event will take place on Wednesday, September 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Chick-fil-A located at 10225 Almeda-Genoa Road, Houston TX 77075. 

Lake Houston 10K 5K

On Sunday, September 22, 2019, the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce will host the tenth annual Lake Houston 10k 5k 1K at Kings Harbor.

During the race, the northbound lanes of West Lake Houston Parkway from Kings Parkway to Kings Crossing will be closed from around 6:00 am to 9:45 am, and the southbound lanes will be turned into two lanes. There will be officers at all intersections to help with traffic flow.

This annual event features the Lake Houston Area as a center for health and wellness activities, as well as business growth. In addition, the Lake Houston 10k 5k 1K promotes the attributes of the Lake Houston Area to the entire Greater Houston region. Last year’s event proved successful with nearly 850 runners from across the state and country. This year the Lake Houston Area Chamber is preparing for more than 1,000 participants.

To ensure the safety of the community and participants, the District E Office encourages drivers to avoid these areas during the time of the event. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce by calling (281) 446-2128.

Gemini Avenue Bike Lanes

Below is a message from cycling advocacy group, Cycle Clear Lake: Thanks to the City of Houston, our Clear Lake community has a safer place for cyclists to ride along Gemini Avenue. As more bicycle lanes and shared use paths are built to make a safe and more convenient path for bike transportation and connectivity, we want folks to understand how to safely share our commuting spaces with one another. Below are a few tips.

 For drivers:  

• When turning:
  • Watch for cyclists that merge with vehicular traffic to make a left turn at the intersection. If making a right turn, slow down and allow cyclists to proceed through the intersection before turning.
• At stop signs:
  • Treat cyclists as a vehicle. If cyclists arrive at the intersection before you, they have the right of way.
• At lighted intersections:
  • Note that some cyclists will go towards the front of the queue at a red light. This is a protective measure to become more visible to other road users and help prevent vehicles from turning into them or trapping them between the curb and the car. If a cyclist is in front of you, give them some time to get their wheels moving and clip into their pedals.
• Along the route:
  • Always keep an eye on the cyclists. They may merge with vehicular traffic to avoid hitting road debris. Give the cyclists at least a 3 foot gap between you and cyclist. 

• For cyclists:
  • When turning:
    • Use proper hand signals when you need to make a left or right turn. Be cautious before traveling into main traffic. Cars may not see you looking to leave the bike lane.
  • At stop signs:
    • Stop at all stop signs as you would if you were driving and use proper hand signals. Come to a full stop at the sign, and yield to other users already waiting at the sign.
  • At lighted intersections:
    • Obey the lights as you would if you were driving and use proper hand signals. Be wary of cars that may overtake you to make a turn, possibly across your path of travel. Along the route: Be wary of road debris, always look ahead for any obstacles in the way. Be visible and predictable as you ride. Merge with vehicular traffic to avoid dangerous situations in the bike lake when appropriate.

Please contact Cycle Clear Lake for additional information, resources, or how to volunteer.

Shredding at Village Learning Center

The Village Learning Center is offering shredding services to the general public at 3819 Plum Valley Drive in Kingwood, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  They are providing shredding as a community service project which in turn will provide a vocational training opportunity for their clients.   

All documents received will be kept secure until shredding occurs.  Staff that work in the shredding area are required to sign a confidentiality agreement and all undergo criminal background checks as part of their employment. There is no shredding fee for this service but the Center will accept donations if patrons are so inclined. Certificates of Destruction are available for a nominal fee of $1.00.  

The shredded paper will be used in the Village Learning Center’s organic garden, chicken coop and compost pile or will be given to organizations and individuals who have a need for the material. 

Applications Being Accepted for HPD Youth Police Advisory Council

The Houston Police Department is inviting Houston area high school students to apply for the 2019-2020 Youth Police Advisory Council (YPAC).

Students will address issues affecting youth and the community, participate in community service projects and attend youth leadership conferences throughout the state.  Additionally, the YPAC meets regularly with Chief of Police Art Acevedo and other top HPD officials.

YPAC members are required to meet five times during the school year at the HPD Edward A. Thomas Building at 1200 Travis in downtown Houston.
Applications are available online here. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, October 1, 2019.

For more information,  visit https://www.houstontx.gov/police/vip/ypac.htm or email 
rhonda.holmes@houstonpolice.org or call 713-308-3200.

Hurricane Dorian Relief Supplies Donations

As people start recovering from the massive destruction and heartbreaking loss of life in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner is asking Houstonians to donate relief supplies to assist those in need.  

“Houston still remembers when communities across the country came to our assistance after Harvey and we want to continue to Pay It Forward. Therefore, I am asking those who can donate to help with this effort. We will continue to show the world that we are Houston Strong, and Houstonians have big hearts.”

 Items needed:

• Cleaning supplies (especially with bleach)
• Personal hygiene items
• Nonperishable food
• Bottled water
• Pet food and supplies
• Buckets
• Trash Bags
• Backpacks
• Mops
• Brushes
• School Supplies
• Rubber Gloves
• Masks
• Push brooms
• Squeegees
• Pillows/Bedding
• Tarps
• Car Seats
• Baby Formula
• Diapers
• Paper Towels

Drop off location for donated items:

Helping Hands to the Community

600 Kenrick Dr.  Ste. C-16

Houston, TX 77060

Monday – Friday 9am-5pm

In addition to donations, Helping Hands requests volunteers to assist with coordination, sorting, and loading of donations. If you can volunteer, please email grayr85@yahoo.com  with the day and time you can help. Volunteer shifts will be 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.  Financial contributions can be made directly to the Bahamas Relief Fund: https://www.bahamas.com/relief  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Renea Gray at grayr85@yahoo.com or by phone at 832-882-5341. Thank you in advance for your support. 

Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 Heroes Run

Mark your calendars! The annual 9/11 Heroes Run will be held on Saturday, September 7 at City Hall.  

Founded in honor of 1st Lieutenant Travis Manion, who gave his life while serving in Iraq in 2009, the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) assists American veterans and the families of the fallen in addition to organizing a number of charitable initiatives including the 9/11 Heroes Run. Interested participants can register online here.   

The 9/11 Heroes Run is more than the race, there are opportunities to become a foundation ambassador. TMF’s Character Does Matter Program provides veterans and their families with an opportunity to inspire young adults to develop their leadership skills, live with character, and call them to serve within their communities in honor of fallen heroes. For more information on the foundation click here.

Southeast Texas Academy and ROTC (S.T.A.R.) Seminar

The 2019 S.T.A.R. Seminar, jointly hosted by Senator John Cornyn and Senator Ted Cruz, as well as Congressman Dan Crenshaw, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher, Congressman Michael McCaul, Congressman Randy Weber, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, Congressman Pete Olsen, Congressman Michael Cloud, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, and Congressman Brian Babin, D.D.S., will be held Saturday morning, September 14^th at The Center For Petrochemical, Energy & Technology at San Jacinto College.  This informational forum will provide interested students in grades 8-12 the opportunity to learn more about our nation’s service academies, requirements for admission and the selection process.

Southeast Texas Academy and ROTC (S.T.A.R.) Seminar Saturday, September 14, 2019 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM Registration opens at 7:15 AM Note: This is a “come & stay” event! San Jacinto CollegeCenter for Petrochemical, Energy & Technology7901 W. Fairmont Pkwy.Pasadena, 77507

In addition to staff from congressional offices, representatives from all five academies (U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and U.S. Air Force Academy), current academy cadets and midshipmen will all be on hand to answer questions. Also present will be representatives from Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps ROTC, along with representatives from Academy Prep programs from Marion Military Institute, New Mexico Military Institute, and Greystone Prep. Southeast Texas students, parents, and educators will be able to hear from and meet with these representatives on a one-to-one basis to become informed about the excellent possibilities associated with attending these premier educational institutions and the sorts of careers they generate.

The Forum is free and open to the public; no pre-registration is required. It will be held from 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM; registration opens at 7:15 AM. For more information, please contact:    Jared Bargas, Field Representative                        Office of Congressman Randy Weber  Phone: 281-316-0231    Email: jared.bargas@mail.house.gov

Wings Over Houston 

Council Member Martin invites all Houstonians to Ellington Airport on Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20 for the Annual Wings Over Houston Airshow. This year, Wings Over Houston is honored to host, not just one, but two national military jet demonstration teams, the United States Air Force Thunderbirds and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds. Both teams will put on jaw-dropping demonstrations highlighted by precision formation flying (separated by only a few feet) at hundreds of miles an hour. 

Gates will open at 8:00 a.m. on both October 19 and 20. For more on the Wings Over Houston Airshow, including ticket information, please visit  www.wingsoverhouston.com.

City of Houston Burglar and Panic Alarm Requirements

 Council Member Martin would like to make all District E residents and businesses aware that operating, using, causing or allowing the operation or use of a burglar and/or panic alarm system located within the City of Houston are required by the Code of Ordinances, Chapter 11, Article III to obtain a permit for their alarm system.The ordinance takes false panic alarms very seriously because they put a very costly strain on the City of Houston public safety resources. 

The City of Houston offers three options to apply for and purchase a Residential or Non-Residential alarm permit.

You may apply:

• Online: www.houstonburglaralarmpermits.org and click the light blue “Apply & Pay Online” box.
• In-person at:Houston Permitting Center, 1002 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77002 
• By mail: Fill out the convenient, fillable, PDF alarm permit application found at this link.

Mail the completed application with complete payment to:

City of Houston – Burglar Alarm Administration

P.O. Box 203887, Houston, Texas 77216-3887 

If you have any questions, please visit www.houstonburglaralarmpermits.org. You can also contact the City of Houston Burglar Alarm Administration by calling 713-581-7410.

Upcoming Events: Please email the District E office if you would like us to include your upcoming event in future newsletters!

Kingwood September 7 Kingwood Electronic Waste Recycling September 11 Kingwood Service Association Public Safety Committee September 12 Summer Creek BizCom September 17 Kingwood PIP September 18 Kingwood Super Neighborhood Meeting September 24 Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce Peace Officer and Firefighters Luncheon

As we begin to gear up for the upcoming school year, my staff has been hard at work coordinating the annual round of fall town hall meetings in the district. I invite you to save the date for the following two meetings that will be held:   Clear Lake/Southeast Houston Thursday, October 10 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Space Center Houston – Special Events Building 1601 East NASA Parkway Houston, Texas 77058  Kingwood/Lake Houston Thursday, October 17 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Kingwood Community Center – Main Room 4102 Rustic Woods Drive Kingwood, Texas 77345  As always, I have extended the invitation to several city departments including Houston Public Works as well as Houston Parks and Recreation and a variety of community speakers. In addition to various information tables for residents to peruse before the meetings begin. In Clear Lake/ Southeast Houston, we have invited the folks from Commissioner Adrian Garcia’s Office to provide an update on the El Dorado Boulevard widening project. Exploration Green has also been invited to participate in our town hall to discuss their progress towards completion. Houston Public Works and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department will be in attendance to discuss the complete pavement replacement at the Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center as well as the Sylvan Rodriguez Park Habitat Restoration Project.  In Kingwood/Lake Houston, the focus of the meeting will be on flood  remediation projects, update on dredging activities, the creation of a Lake Houston Maintenance Program, and announcement of the FEMA Award for floodgates on the Lake Houston Spillway Dam. We look forward to hearing these updates and learning of the community’s questions, comments and concerns. If you have never been before, it is the perfect opportunity to be engaged in your community and have your questions answered. We hope you will join us. Please feel free to invite a neighbor, friend or colleague! Everyone is more than welcome to attend.  This year is also an election year, and I encourage everyone to register to vote. If you are not already, you can register online by visiting VoteTexas.gov or by visiting the Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office, which has many branches across the city. I am proud to announce that I formally submitted my  paperwork to run for my last term for the District E City Council position. Thank you to all who have supported me thus far and for the privilege to serve. I feel honored and blessed to have had the opportunity and hope to be able to continue to represent the constituents of District E. Sincerely, Dave Martin The District E Office 900 Bagby, First Floor Houston, TX 77002  Contact Information Email: districte@houstontx.gov  Phone: (832) 393-3008 Fax: (832) 393-3279

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FEMA Awards funding for Lake Houston Spillway Flood Gates

Houston City Council Member Dave Martin is excited to announce the District E office has received notification from the Honorable Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-02) regarding the award of The United States Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Federal grants for the State of Texas Associated with Hurricane Harvey. Council Member Martin is most thrilled about the award of a Hazard Mitigation Grant through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) in the amount of $47,170,953 for the City of Houston Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project (Federal Share $35,378,214.75, Non-Federal Share $11,792,738.25). This award is pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Section 404, and 44 CFR Part 206.434.

Congressman Crenshaw announced to Council Member Martin:  “Today FEMA approved nearly $3.3 million for Phase 1 of the gates at the Lake Houston Dam.  These gates will increase the flow out of Lake Houston significantly.  This money will ensure that the final design  will not impact downstream residents and will provide the anticipated relief to the Lake Houston area.  Increasing the conveyance will have positive impacts for the entire San Jacinto watershed including the East Fork and the West Fork.”

It has been nearly two years since Hurricane Harvey devastated numerous cities along the Texas Coastline including the Kingwood and Lake Houston communities. Since August 27, 2017 Council Member Martin has stayed committed to finding solutions and identifying projects for the Lake Houston Area in order to reduce the risk of flooding and improving safety for residents. This is evident in the completion of the dredging along the West Fork of the San Jacinto River, where nearly 2 million cubic yards of debris were removed earlier this year to re-establish flow and reduce blockages in the river caused by Hurricane Harvey. 

Additionally, Council Member Martin fought for the complete removal of the mouth-bar which is located at the confluence of the San Jacinto River and Lake Houston south of Deerwood Country Club. The mouth-bar is currently in the process of being dredged and to date 250,000 cubic yards of sediment has been removed from this area. The current mouth-bar dredging project will remove nearly 500,000 cubic yards of debris associated with Hurricane Harvey. Council Member Martin along with help from Congressman Crenshaw continues to fight for the removal of even more material from the mouth-bar. 

These dredging efforts were just one part of Council Member Martin’s bigger picture for the Lake Houston Area to combat flooding, along with the installation of flood gates on the Lake Houston Spillway Dam. Council Member Martin has been working diligently over the last two years, with Congressman Crenshaw, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, State Senator Brandon Creighton, State Representative Dan Huberty, City of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, and City of Houston Chief Resiliency Officer Stephen Costello, to obtain flood control infrastructure for the City of Houston on the Lake Houston Spillway Dam. 

After hearing the news regarding the FEMA Award Council Member Martin had these words to say:“The Lake Houston Dam gates were always my number one priority as these additional gates give us the ability to proactively release water from Lake Houston in an expeditious fashion if needed during an emergency. Words cannot do justice to say how pleased I am knowing our gates will be built. It’s been 22 months of hard work and persistence. I am forever grateful to Congressman Dan Crenshaw, Governor Greg Abbott, Chief Nim Kidd, Senator Creighton, Representative Huberty, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Stephen Costello, former Chief Recovery Officer Marvin Odum, and Congressman Dan Crenshaw’s Field Representative Kaaren Cambio. Without these great leaders this project would’ve never come to fruition. We are truly blessed.”

Funding for the City of Houston Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project is awarded directly to the State of Texas in full. Phase I funding will be released to the City of Houston from the State of Texas. Once those funds are released to the City of Houston the City will begin the process of permitting, engineering, design, and environmental assessment to increase the outflow capacity of the Lake Houston Spillway Dam. Once Phase I of the project is complete the City of Houston will renew the cost benefit analysis and submit to FEMA for their review. Upon their review of the completed cost benefit analysis after Phase I completion, the additional funds provided to the state of Texas for this project will be released to the City for completion of Phase II construction. Once the funding is received by the City of Houston the two phases are expected to be completed within thirty-six months, with the possibility of extension if needed. This is exciting news for the City of Houston, residents of Lake Houston and Kingwood. 

Along with the award of the City of Houston Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project Hazard Mitigation Grant FEMA has also announced three other grants impacting District E. Lonestar College’s Kingwood Campus has been awarded two public assistance grants for Emergency Protective Measures in the amounts of $6,276,131.22 and $2,502,914.79. Clear Creek Independent School District was also awarded a public assistance grant for Emergency Protective Measures in the amount of $1,303,060.49. The funding for these three grants is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

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“Beat the Heat” Cooling Centers 

The summer months can put a strain on anyone’s electricity budget. Several “Beat the Heat” cooling centers have been opened up throughout the City and County, offering Houstonians a place to keep cool and minimize home electricity usage while enjoying free water and snacks. These centers are open weekdays through September. In District E, residents can visit: 

Bay Area Community Center

5002 E Nasa Parkway

Seabrook, Texas, 77586

Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Kingwood Community Center

4102 Rustic Woods

Kingwood, Texas 77345

Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. 6 p.m. 

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Complete Pavement Replacement Scheduled for Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center 

Houston Public Works has started a complete pavement replacement at Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center. Over the last couple of years, Council Member Martin has provided patching of potholes within the recycling center. Understanding these asphalt patches are often short term solutions, Council Member Martin continued to push for a more substantial long-term project, which has been secured. The scope of work includes replacing all existing asphalt with concrete to improve driving conditions and to preserve and prolong the life of the road base.  The work is expected to be completed by October 2019, weather permitting. To maintain access to the recycling containers, crews have sectioned the work so they begin working outside the fence allowing accessibility to the containers. There will be a barricade and traffic cones outlining the safe pathway to the containers. Once the first phase is complete, residents will be able to drive on the newly poured concrete to access the recycling containers while crews begin work on the opposite side. Crews will be on site from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., daily.  After the work outside of the fencing has been completed, crews will begin replacing the pavement inside the fence where the containers are located. At that time, it will be determined by the City of Houston Solid Waste Department if the site will need to be closed for the remainder of the project. Once this decision is made, Council Member Martin will make sure to communicate this change to residents as he understand the importance of having access to this facility. Council Member Martin hopes to limit the number of accessibility issues to the facility during this pavement replacement, but encourages patience from residents as this project is underway. Council Member Martin will provide updates on access to the recycling center on his Facebook page and Twitter. 

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El Dorado Boulevard Widening Project Begins 

Harris County Precinct 2 has recently started the El Dorado Boulevard widening project by removing trees near the existing sidewalk along the western side of El Dorado Boulevard, between Clear Lake City Boulevard and Horsepen Bayou. The removal is expected to be completed by the end of August, weather permitting.

As there are over 1000 trees planted along this easement of El Dorado Boulevard, less than 10% will be removed. The tree removal process is necessary in order for CenterPoint to begin relocating their power lines. Crews will be on site, removing trees, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Following the tree removal and the relocation of the CenterPoint power lines, Harris County Precinct 2 will begin widening the roadway. 

All trees being removed will be replanted within the project boundaries, if not more. The 100 to 150 newly replanted trees will support the new landscape as well as decrease the need for maintenance on the newly installed hike and bike path. This new hike and bike path will not only improve connectivity in the area, but increase Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility. 

Construction on the roadway is expected to begin early this fall and take 18 months to complete, weather permitting. This work should not require any lane closures on El Dorado Boulevard. As a result of these activities, please be aware of pedestrian traffic control efforts to ensure pedestrian safety. The District E office will continue to provide updates throughout the duration of the project.  

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Mouth-Bar Dredging Update

Dredging of the mouth-bar, a sand bar located where the San Jacinto River meets Lake Houston south of Deerwood Country Club, began on Tuesday, June 25. Great Lakes Dredging has removed roughly 220,000 cubic yards of sediment from the nearly 500,000 cubic yard project. The removal of this sediment is happening with much more ease due to the lack of debris in the material that is being picked up. Great Lakes Dredging is still encountering large trees throughout the project but not with as much frequency as they had when dredging the west fork of the river. The project is expected to be completed early this fall.

Council Member Martin understands that without repetitive dredging throughout the Lake Houston region, our community will continue to see sand bars develop throughout the river and lake. As a result, the Council Member continues to work with local, state, and federal officials to develop a long range maintenance plan for the East and West Forks of the San Jacinto River as well as Lake Houston for the removal of floatable debris and sediment. 

During this year’s City of Houston Budget vote Council Member Martin submitted an amendment that was supported by his City Council Colleagues and Mayor Sylvester Turner that establishes for the first time ever a Lake Houston Maintenance Program. Council Member Martin submitted this amendment for the first time last year but it failed. 

After the passage of this amendment this June, Council Member Martin is already hard at work identifying stakeholders, outlining program criteria, and creating implementation strategies. The main goals for the Lake Houston Maintenance Program are to establish regular lake maintenance for the removal of floatable debris as well as implement a sediment management component for the river and lake. 

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District E Safe Sidewalk Projects 

This month, Houston Public Works will be constructing safe sidewalks in District E. These sidewalk projects have been requested by Council Member Martin in an effort to provide increased pedestrian mobility as well as safety. 

On Wednesday, August 7, Houston Public Works will begin installing concrete sidewalks and wheelchair ramps on the east side of South Shaver, from 4415 South Shaver Street to the driveway at Yes Prep Southeast Public School, 353 Crenshaw Road, Houston, Texas 77034. Construction is expected to be completed Wednesday, August 28, weather permitting. More information on this project can be found here. 

The installation of this sidewalk became a priority for Council Member Martin after an administrator at Yes Prep Public Schools  contacted the District E office regarding the lack of sidewalk for students traveling to and from Yes Prep Southeast Public School.  To address the safety hazards the lack of sidewalk posed, Council Member Martin was happy to allocate $80,904.00 from Council District Service Funds for the installation of the sidewalk. 

On Thursday, August 8, Houston Public Works will begin installing missing pieces of concrete sidewalk panels at 5458 Allendale Road. Construction is expected to be completed by Thursday, August 15. Crews will operate between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. A lane closure is expected. The scope of the project is about 30 feet long, and the goal is to complete the sidewalk to create a safe sidewalk for students and residents traveling to and from Patterson Elementary School and Meadowcreek Village Park. 

In Kingwood, on August 8, Houston Public Works will begin installing missing concrete panels along High Valley Drive from Kingwood Drive to Stately Oak Street. Construction is anticipated to be completed by Friday, September 6. The scope of the project is about 870 feet long, and will close the gap between High Valley Drive and Kingwood Drive near Houston Fire Department Station 103. 

As a result of the construction activities throughout District E, please be aware of flaggers and caution devices, like orange traffic control barriers, that will be put in place on site to help with traffic flow through the construction zone. Council Member Martin looks forward to the completion of these projects and improved connectivity within District E. 

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Miles Street Road Pavement Replacement Project

The Miles Street Road Pavement Replacement Project will begin the week of Monday, August 5. In late July, the project was delayed due to complications with the traffic plan. Those issues have since been resolved.  The project will replace the existing asphalt with concrete to improve safety and mobility on Miles Street from Market Street to Industrial Road. The scope of work includes replacement of the roadway pavement, manhole adjusting, and re-grading the roadside ditches to facilitate drainage. The project is expected to be completed by end of January 2020, weather permitting.  For more information on the project click here. This project is being funded through the City of Houston’s Dedicated Drainage and Street Renewal Fund in the amount of the $2,568,358.83.  For those who were unable to attend the July 9 Public Meeting regarding this project, the presentation, Frequently Asked Questions document (in English and Spanish) and project map are available here.  Questions or comments related to this project may be sent directly to Houston Public Works by emailing buildforward@houstontx.gov. 

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Taylor Gully Update

Last month, Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) began a desilt project on the upstream portion of Taylor Gully from Bassingham to the Harris County line. The work is expected to be completed by September 2019, weather permitting. This maintenance project became a priority for Council Member Martin after the May 2019 rain events that flooded over 300 homes in the Kingwood community. During these rain events, intense rainfall rates greatly exceeded internal and primary drainage system capabilities resulting in significant and at times deep street flooding and sheetflow. On May 8, City of Houston contractors, as well as Harris County Flood Control District, investigated their designated drainage systems and determined the flooding was potentially caused by development upstream in Montgomery County that sent large volumes of sheetflow into the Elm Grove subdivision and Taylor Gully (G103-80-03-1). You can read more about the project plans by reading our press release at this link. After completing this reach of channel, HCFCD staff will investigate Taylor Gully further downstream, where HCFCD completed a desilt job in the spring of 2019. HCFCD will open up any constrictions and desilt the channel if necessary.

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Harris County Flood Control District Berry Bayou Update

Stormwater channel improvements along Berry Bayou Tributary C106-03-00 from the South Houston city limits near Genoa Street to about Shawnee Street are nearing completion. This is a portion of Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) Project C106-03-00-C006, the third phase of channel improvements along this Berry Bayou tributary in the Sims Bayou watershed. The $5.87 million Phase 3 project, under construction since early 2018, was designed to reduce the risk of area flooding by providing greater depth and improved conveyance through replacing the existing earthen channel with a concrete-lined channel with a low-flow section. 

Due to a late 2017 court ruling limiting HCFCD’s usage of a 19-foot maintenance easement north of the Redford Apartments (1221 Redford Street, Houston, 77034), HCFCD will be repackaging and rebidding the remaining 65% of the Phase 3 project from Shawnee to Interstate 45 to reflect changed conditions regarding access to the channel. This change removes approximately 4,800 linear foot portion from the current 7,279 linear foot Phase 3 construction contract, which will now end south of the bridge at Shawnee Street. A new phase 4 will include the 4,800 linear foot portion of the work.

In order to complete the remaining work, HCFCD has initiated a new project, Project ID C106-03-00-C007, Phase 4 Channel Conveyance Improvements. The Phase 4 project will begin south of Shawnee Street and end south of Edgebrook Drive near Interstate 45. Patriot Construction tentatively plans to complete the modified scope of the Phase 3 project by the end of August 2019. HCFCD plans to advertise the Phase 4 project for construction bids in approximately October 2019.

Special thanks to Project Coordinator and avid community advocate, James Muecke, for his dedication to the project and commitment to flood mitigation in the Edgebrook corridor. 

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Bens Branch Update

Bens Branch, a Harris County Flood Control District channel within the Kingwood community stretching from Northpark to the West Fork of the San Jacinto River, was completely inundated with water and sediment during Hurricane Harvey. As a result, a considerable buildup of sediment infiltrated the southern bends of the channel south of Kingwood Drive around Town Center and behind the Lake Houston YMCA. This stretch of Bens Branch Channel from Kingwood Drive to about 1,800 linear feet downstream of West Lake Houston Parkway, is owned by the  Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD)

Other channels in Kingwood and the Lake Houston communities within the City of Houston are also being evaluated by HCFCD for projects. Currently, there is one portion of Ben’s Branch, between Woodland Hills and Rocky Woods Drive, that is under final review with City of Houston Legal, HCFCD and the Bens Branch Trail Association. Once that final review is complete HCFCD will be the owners of the Bens Branch channel, in its entirety, from Northpark Drive to 1,800 linear feet south of the channel’s intersection with West Lake Houston Parkway. Eventually most open and natural channels will be maintained by HCFCD while the City of Houston maintains all closed storm sewer systems. 

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Sylvan Rodriguez Park Habitat Restoration Scheduled

Last month, the Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) began habitat restoration work at Sylvan Rodriguez Park. With the finalization of the revised Sylvan Rodriguez Park Master Plan and community feedback in support of a natural park,  the City of Houston is targeting 72 acres of the 113 acre park to restore to coastal prairie and riparian forest ecosystem.  

Grant funding has been secured through the Texas General Land Office for three out of the four identified phases. The first phase of the project includes the clearing of several Chinese tallow and other non-native trees within 14 acres of the interior of the park. The removal of these trees is expected to be completed by the end of August 2019, weather permitting. Following the removal, the contractor will be mulching the trees onsite.  The site will then be seeded and planted with native grasses and wildflowers through several community planting events held in the fall by HPARD. The District E office will notify residents once these planting events are scheduled.  

As a result of the restoration activities, please be aware of signage and flags preventing the public from entering the work site. There will be an increase in noise levels due to equipment in the area, but it is not expected to impact the adjacent neighborhoods. Crews will be working on site Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 

The restoration of coastal wetland prairie and forested riparian ecosystems at Sylvan Rodriguez Park will promote ecosystem regulating functions through soil retention, reduced sedimentation, and water purification. The restored prairie habitat will provide increased erosion control through the deep prairie grass roots and will provide bank stabilization in the riparian areas. Additionally, restoration of the area will help to slow and absorb floodwaters during rain events. The habitat created at the restoration site will attract many different wildlife species to the area including native insect pollinators and migratory birds.  

This project will also provide educational opportunities for visitors of the park to experience and learn about the historic natural habitats that once existed in Houston. Interpretive signage along the boardwalk trails will deliver information on the importance of native prairies and wetlands and their impacts on wildlife and people. 

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Dylan Duncan Skate Park Ribbon Cutting

On Tuesday, July 16, Council Member Martin, in partnership with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, hosted a ribbon cutting celebration to unveil the new improvements and renovations at the Dylan Duncan Skatepark in Kingwood. In Fiscal Year 2019, Council Member Martin was happy to allocate $49,332 of his Council District Service Funds to make the necessary renovations with the goal of improving safety and maximizing enjoyment for park goers. 

The Dylan Duncan Skatepark, originally named the Kingwood Skatepark, was the very first public skatepark built by the City of Houston in 2004. It was renamed the Dylan Duncan Skatepark in December of 2006 after Dylan Jacob Duncan, an avid skater in the Kingwood area who passed away in 2005. 

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate these new improvements, including Elton Fritz, President of the Trailwood Village Homeowners Association, Robert Scarfo, Humble ISD Board of Trustees, and Daryl Palmer, Community Activist. We would also like to extend a special thanks to Nancy Harper, Dylan Duncan’s mom, who attended the event with Dylan’s friends and family.

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Overlay Complete at Woodland Hills and Northpark 

The Woodland Hills at Northpark Drive intersection overlay project began Tuesday, July 23. The resurfacing of the intersection was completed on Friday, July 26. Striping was completed on Wednesday, July 31 and loop detectors were installed today, August 2. Council Member Martin is happy to report that his project is now complete and looks forward to the improved driving conditions at this intersection.

The cost of the project is $134,415.70, which is being funded through Council Member Martin’s Fiscal Year 2018 Council District Service Funds. 

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Reseda Drive Safe Sidewalk Project

Houston Public Works will began making  repairs to an existing sidewalk on Reseda Drive between Diana Lane and Torry Pines Road, last month.

As of this week, they are roughly 30% complete. Council Member Martin requested this project in collaboration with the Exploration Green Conservancy. This project will improve the sidewalk surface. Additionally, the area has seen more foot traffic since the completion of Exploration Green Phase One. 

To address the safety hazards the sidewalk posed, Council Member Martin was happy to allocate $51,600 from Council District Service Funds to make the necessary repairs. Construction is anticipated to be completed before the start of the 2019 to 2020 school year. 

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Harris County Flood Control District Huffman Meeting

On Thursday, July 11, Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) hosted a Community Engagement Meeting to discuss upcoming bond projects in the Huffman area. HCFCD staff was present to gather public input and ideas from the community regarding the upcoming San Jacinto River, Luce Bayou, and Cedar Bayou bond projects. You can read more about the HCFCD bond projects here on their website.

For more information, you can view the presentation here. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Harris County Flood Control District Hotline by calling 713-684-4000.

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Forest Cove Townhomes 

The District E office continues to monitor the progress of the Harris County Flood Control District Buyout Process. As of this month, HCFCD has continued with the purchase and demolition of some properties located in the Forest Cove Townhome Community as part of their Home Buyout Program.  

HCFCD has purchased all units in the following buildings: 1102 Marina, 1050 Marina, 1060 Marina, 1040 Marina, 1030 Marina, 930 Aqua Vista, and 803/5 Timberline. There are approximately 19 more units to purchase to have complete ownership. 

The following buildings have been demolished: 1050 Marina, 1060 Marina, and 803/5 Timberline. HCFCD is in the process of demolishing 1102 Marina, 1040 Marina, 1030 Marina, and 930 Aqua Vista. As HCFCD completes ownership on the 19 remaining units, the demolitions of those buildings will follow. 

The District E office greatly appreciates everything HCFCD has done in keeping our office informed on the status of the demolition process for these Hurricane Harvey buyout properties. We would also like to thank the City of Houston Police Department and Houston Fire Department for their efforts in monitoring this area and responding to concerns when needed. Council Member Martin encourages residents to continue reporting any suspicious activity or illegal dumping to 3-1-1 by calling (713) 837-0311.

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HPD Clear Lake School Supply Giveaway

The Houston Police Department Clear Lake Division will be hosting its 2nd Annual School Supply Giveaway on August 3, 2019. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. at the Grace Community Church, located at 14505 Gulf Freeway. 

The goal of this event is to help lessen the financial burden on families by providing school supplies for students in the area. Last year’s event was a success and this years will be bigger and better. Come out with the family for school supplies and fun!

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First Responders Back to School Bash in Kingwood

Council Member Martin encourages all Kingwood residents to attend the 2nd Annual First Responders Back to School Bash which will be held on August 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Creekwood Middle School, 3603 West Lake Houston Parkway. It’s a great opportunity to interact with local law enforcement, and celebrate the end of summer before the 2019 to 2020 school year begins. 

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Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Legislative Update

On Tuesday, July 23, Council Member Martin attended Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership’s (BAHEP) Annual Legislative Session Wrap-Up Reception at the South Shore Harbour Resort. Attendees had the opportunity to hear updates from Senators Larry Taylor and Carol Alvarado, and Representatives Dennis Paul, Ed Thompson, and Mary Ann Perez on the 86th Texas Legislative Session. These legislators covered several topics during the discussion including transportation, education, school safety, and coastal spine protection. 

Thank you to BAHEP for organizing another successful legislative update and to our elected officials for representing our region in Austin, Texas.

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Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce Inaugural Pinnacle Business Awards

On Tuesday, July 23, the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce hosted their Inaugural Pinnacle Business Awards, honoring several businesses in the Lake Houston Area.

Congratulations to this years winners:  Small Business of the Year, Pines Montessori School, Large Business of the Year, JLA Realty, and Franchise Business of the Year, Chick-fil-A at Wilson/Beltway 8. 

Council Member Martin congratulates the award recipients on their achievements and accomplishments in the Lake Houston area. 

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Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Lunch

On Wednesday, July 31, Council Member Martin and staff attended the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon at the Hilton NASA Clear Lake. The luncheon spotlighted Ellington Airport General Manager Arturo Machuca who provided an update on the Future of the Houston Spaceport.  

The Phase 1 Expansion at the Houston Spaceport is now underway with the construction of streets, water and wastewater, pipelines, electrical power, distribution and communication facilities approved by City Council in October 2018. The construction is anticipated to be completed by May 2020, weather permitting. 

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Community Grant Workshops

Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) will be hosting Community Grant Workshops in District E in the coming weeks.

The goal of the HAA introductory grants workshop is to create a mutual learning environment where HAA will share information about the City of Houston’s grant programs as well as learn the needs of the community through this in-person session.

A meeting in Clear Lake recently took place on Tuesday, July 30. Kingwood residents/artists are encouraged to save the date for the workshop on Saturday, August 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Kingwood Community Center, 4102 Rustic Woods, Kingwood, Texas 77345. 

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Houston Fire Department Back to School Immunizations

The Houston Fire Department and the Care Van Program once again are teaming up to provide free immunizations at their annual Back-To-School Immunization Extravaganza on August 15 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the HFD Val Jahnke Training Facility, 8030 Braniff, Houston, Texas 77061. 

The free immunizations are only available for uninsured 
or Medicaid children ages 4 to 18 years. Children with CHIP or private insurance cannot be serviced. Parents must accompany their children and provide their most current immunization records. 

If you have any questions please contact HFD Public Affairs at 832-394-6636 or paul.box@houstontx.gov.  

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Houston Police Department Summer Crime Prevention Tips

Council Member Martin reminds District E residents of the following safety tips from HPD:  

• Make sure all windows and doors are locked whether you are home or away;

• Activate your alarm system regardless of how long you anticipate being away from home;

• Never leave jewelry or valuables in plain view;

• Take photos of valuables and their identification numbers and keep these images on a zip drive;

• Set interior home lights on a timer;

• Maintain adequate exterior lighting and keep bushes and shrubs trimmed;

• Always keep your vehicle car doors locked and windows closed;

• While out shopping, do not move items from inside your vehicle into the trunk in public view;

• Finally, get to know your neighbors, be aware of your surroundings at all time and report all suspicious activity to the police immediately.

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Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 Heroes Run

Mark your calendars! The annual 9/11 Heroes Run will be held on Saturday, September 7 at City Hall.  

Founded in honor of 1st Lieutenant Travis Manion, who gave his life while serving in Iraq in 2009, the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) assists American veterans and the families of the fallen in addition to organizing a number of charitable initiatives including the 9/11 Heroes Run. Interested participants can register online here.  

The 9/11 Heroes Run is more than the race, there are opportunities to become a foundation ambassador. TMF’s Character Does Matter Program provides veterans and their families with an opportunity to inspire young adults to develop their leadership skills, live with character, and call them to serve within their communities in honor of fallen heroes. For more information on the foundation click here.

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Upcoming Events

Please email the District E office if you would like us to include your upcoming event in future newsletters! 

City Wides
August 6 Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee

September 2Labor Day – City Holiday – Offices Closed

Kingwood 
August 3 Kingwood Electronic Waste Recycling

August 3 Kingwood First Responders Back to School Bash

August 10 Houston Arts Alliance Community Grants Workshop

August 14Kingwood Service Association Public Safety Committee

August 20Kingwood PIP

August 21Kingwood Super Neighborhood Meeting

Southeast Houston/Clear Lake 

August 3 HPD Clear Lake Division School Supply Giveaway

August 8 Meadowcreek Civic Club Meeting

August 10 Clear Lake Electronic Waste Recycling 

August 14 ACLC Monthly Meeting

August 20 Clear Lake PIP

August 28 Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon