The Thomas Telegraph | Vol. 7, Issue 4 – February 21, 2025

I hope this message finds you well and staying warm. We’ve experienced incredible waves of unpredictable weather lately. Out of an abundance of caution, the city and county have opened warming centers to provide shelter for our unsheltered neighbors.

Public Safety:
To enhance community awareness, Tanglewilde residents recently reported a series of break-ins to HPD, my office, and their neighbors. As of today, February 21st, Commander Clinton informed me that an arrest has been made in connection with the reported robberies. I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Houston Police Department for their diligent efforts and to the Tanglewilde community for their active role in promoting public safety. This achievement is a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together toward a common goal.

Speaking of Tanglewilde, on December 13th, Lilia Vazquez tragically lost her life in a hit-and-run accident on Westpark between Jeanetta and Fondren while training for the Houston Chevron Marathon. Her killer has yet to be identified. Last Thursday, I stood alongside her family and husband at a Crime Stoppers press conference, urging anyone who may have witnessed the accident to come forward—especially residents in Westmont, Tanglewilde, Piney Point, and Briarmeadow. If you were in the area during the early morning hours of December 13th, please share any information you may have. Details regarding the $5,000 reward are below. Let’s come together as a community to seek justice for the Vazquez family.

Piney Point:
Last week, I attended the Piney Point Civic Club meeting, where residents shared concerns about squatters, unpermitted activities, and developments that violate existing deed restrictions. I am actively engaging with media outlets to raise awareness about these issues and am collaborating with the Houston Permitting Center to verify the status of the developments we discussed. I’ll provide more updates as they become available.

This evening, I’m traveling to Florida A&M University Law Center, where I’ll be speaking at their Heirs’ Property Symposium. Unfortunately, this means I won’t be with you to celebrate the final week of Black History Month. However, amid the ongoing national conversation questioning whether Black history should be taught and shared, my answer is a resounding yes. As the first African American and woman to serve as the District F Council Member, I hope children, communities, and organizations will have access to my documented efforts to represent the most diverse district in the City of Houston. I also hope I can count on your support in ensuring my contributions—and those of countless others—are known and celebrated. You can learn more about the 2025 Black History theme, African Americans and Labor, here.

Have a wonderful weekend!

P.S. Happy heavenly birthday to my mom, Linda Carmouche Thomas. I miss you every day. ️❤️

Council Member Thomas presented Pastor Berry with a certificate of recognition, expressing gratitude for his unwavering faith, resilience, and dedication to ministering to others.

Council Member Thomas reaffirmed her commitment to preserving Piney Point’s legacy. Together, we can honor and safeguard this vital piece of Black history.

Special thanks to District F resident Alan Steinberg for the invitation to celebrate this inspiring gathering of leaders.

During the event, she presented a certificate of recognition to honor the parade’s celebration of African American history and the significant contributions of African Americans in labor. The symposium was a vibrant gathering reflecting on the theme “African Americans & Labor,” highlighting the enduring impact of African American workers and leaders in shaping our nation’s progress.

This gathering brought together diverse individuals from all walks of life—ranging from Pakistan to Colombia and Indonesia to Southwest Alief—celebrating peace, harmony, and unity. Council Member Thomas was grateful for the warm hospitality and the opportunity to share in a meaningful day of connection and conversation. A special thank you to IslamInSpanish for hosting this beautiful gathering.

A special shout-out to Sharonne Mayberry of Mayberry Home Construction for her work in District F’s home repair program, and Chief Procurement Officer Jedediah Greenfield for advancing equitable contracting.

Latino Entrepreneurs Week highlights the incredible work of individuals dedicated to creating economic pathways for those ready to invest in their businesses, receive mentorship, and grow within their communities. Learn more about it here.

A key takeaway from the meeting: 1 million Houstonians lack a GED, diploma, or associate degree, highlighting a major opportunity to scale up workforce development efforts. Isaac emphasized the importance of removing barriers to education and training, particularly for families on waitlists for housing vouchers or those facing underemployment or homelessness, to stabilize and empower communities.

At Braewood Estates, residents discussed ongoing improvements, including the installation of street lights, $29,900 allocated for speed cushions, sidewalk improvements, and a major rehab project scheduled for Synott Rd in 2026.

At the Bellaire West Annual Meeting, discussions focused on safety and infrastructure improvements, with $79,300 spent on speed cushions and millions allocated for concrete panel replacements. A SWAT analysis is planned to enhance stormwater drainage and protect homes from flooding.

Additionally, Council Member Thomas attended the Westside HPD Command PIP Community Meeting, where she provided updates on crime rates in the district. She also announced additional funding from her office to provide overtime for officers patrolling District F, strengthening public safety efforts and collaboration.

Council Member Thomas emphasized the importance of community support, urging residents in Tanglewilde, Westmont, and Piney Point to check their cameras and report any relevant information. Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for any tip leading to an arrest. Please call 713-222-TIPS to remain anonymous. Let’s work together to bring justice to Lilia and her family. #JusticeForLilia

1. Carvel Ln (near Baneway Dr): Work begins March 3 and is expected to conclude by March 13 (10 days).
2. Westpark Dr (from Mica Dr to Ashfield Dr): Work begins February 26 and is expected to wrap up by March 14 (15 days).
3. Sharpview Dr (from Baneway Dr to Leawood Blvd, and Leawood Blvd to Triola Ln): Work begins March 3, with an anticipated completion date of May 10 (60 days).

These improvements are vital to enhancing safety and accessibility for our community. Stay tuned for further updates!