The Thomas Telegraph | Vol. 6, Issue 17 – September 20, 2024

We’re making great strides on the west side, and I want to highlight several important items for your attention:

TAX RATE: Last week, Finance Director Melissa Dubowski presented several options for a potential tax rate increase to City Council. You can watch the meeting and hear the questions raised. Historically, we have voted on the tax rate in October, with the rate decreasing each year. Currently, the rate is .52 per $100 valuation. However, discussions are ongoing among council members, stakeholders, and the Mayor’s administration.

While many of us are still recovering from past disasters and the costs that came with them, our city services require additional funding to meet growing demands.

As this issue is slated for discussion in October, I want to hear your thoughts. With upcoming Alief and Houston ISD bonds and a potential Harris County rate increase, I need to understand how District F residents feel about this matter so take this survey tolet me know.

I’ll keep you informed as discussions progress, but it’s important to stay engaged on this topic.

FIRE SAFETY: Many of you responded to the offer for free smoke detectors from the Houston Fire Department mentioned in the last newsletter. For those who reached out, we’ve handled your requests. If you’re still interested, please fill out the form, and we’ll facilitate your request.

DISTRICT F CDSF BUDGET SUBMISSION: To streamline requests related to sidewalks, panel replacements, and other qualifying projects, we’ve created a centralized tool for easy submission. Please note that submitting a request doesn’t guarantee approval. All requests will be verified, and we’ll provide updates once approved and funded.

FAITH & AFFORDABLE HOUSING SUMMIT: Faith leaders, join us on Saturday, October 12, at 10 AM at First Methodist Houston in Westchase for the inaugural Faith and Affordable Housing Summit. Did you know that faith organizations are some of the largest landholders in Houston? To keep our city affordable, we need everyone at the table. Register here and watch the PSAs from our partners to learn more.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT: October 1 marks National Night Out in Texas, and in District F, it’s a chance to connect with neighbors on important issues like safety while enjoying some fun along the way. Currently, five neighborhoods are signed up to host National Night Out events. Please share your event details so we can help promote it and bring the community together.

We look forward to visiting neighborhoods and sharing updates. Register your National Night Out event here.

POKER CLUBS: During the 2024 inauguration, I committed to addressing the safety concerns posed by poker clubs in our area. Neighborhoods like Tanglewilde, Westmont, and Carver Crest have voiced frustrations over increased noise and crime near these establishments. The good news is, next week, I’m meeting with the city’s legal department, in collaboration with Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Amy Peck, to review our current ordinance.

I need your input at the upcoming public safety committee meeting—share your experiences with us. Let’s keep the conversation going on this issue over the next few weeks.

The project along Westpark Drive from Dairy Ashford to Wilcrest is also ongoing. CenterPoint has completed installation of new streetlights and the contractor has addressed sidewalk gaps previously occupied by the old streetlights. Keep up with this project on their page.