The Thomas Telegraph | Vol. 7, Issue 19 – October 17, 2025

Thank you to everyone who attended the 2nd Annual Faith & Affordable Housing Summit. The day was nothing short of phenomenal — filled with purpose, partnership, and practical pathways to ensure everyone has access to a home – not just housing. Special thank you to the District F staff and volunteer corps. You all really know how to execute a big-big vision.

Watch the full summit and CW39’s coverage here.

Trash Talk:
I have routinely heard that solid waste trucks have skipped entire streets or one side of the street, yet the daily updates from the solid waste department reflect conflicting information. Tanglewilde, Westmont, Leawood, Imperial Point, Bellaire West, Brookfield, Parkridge, Parkhollow, Brays Village East, Glenshannon are reporting significant delays and out-right skipping of streets. My office has escalated an entire list of locations/streets identified. We appreciate the extra set of eyes and ears reporting and sharing photos so we can get the exact information to solid waste for their crews to resolve. Friends, I do not have any response to any of this, except that it will get worse before it gets better. SWD Director requested a 6-month timeframe to adjust the department, re-design routes, and right-size the department. Therefore, I surmise we will continue this effort through the end of the year. If you are experiencing the same issue please report to 311, secure a service request number (a photo is helpful). If you are reporting on behalf of the neighborhood, please identify exact streets so SWD can cross reference.

As of October 16, 2025, all 197 recycle and trash bins have been delivered by the District F Hot Spot team. An additional 300 were exported from 311 and will be delivered as well before November holidays. If you see the team dropping off containers, give them a big thank you. They are going above and beyond the call of duty to help me reduce the barriers between constituent and government.

2025 Tax Rate:
On Wednesday, City Council voted to decrease the property tax rate from .53 to .51, which deepens Houston’s current deficit. I did not receive any feedback from District F residents ahead of the vote — your voice matters, and I encourage you to weigh in on future decisions that impact our city’s finances. Read more here.

Homelessness:
Across several neighborhood and civic meetings, I’ve heard your growing concerns about homelessness at intersections, commercial corridors and within the shadows of trees and parks.

On Monday, October 20 at 10:00 a.m., I will join Mayor John Whitmire and our partners to discuss the purchase of a new facility at 419 Emancipation (super-hub) that will provide targeted medical and mental health care for the most critically unhoused. Houston continues to lead the nation with its proven housing continuum — and this expansion will reach those most in need. Something many of you expressed support for when we proposed a limited civility ordinance a few months ago. At the end of the day, we have a responsibility to the least of these.

If you are interested in volunteering or partnering with my office on future outreach efforts in District F in 2026, please email [email protected]  and complete our Volunteer Survey so we can connect and include you in our efforts.

Hullsmith at Westheimer:
For over three years, my office has worked alongside residents near Contemporary Green at Westheimer Rd (& Molina’s) to address noise, trash, and parking issues. We’ve coordinated investigations with the Houston Health Department, Midwest HPD, and business owners to reduce neighborhood disruptions.

However, new state legislation now limits the City’s ability to enforce noise and food truck ordinances, shifting much of that oversight to the state.
We cannot simply “shut down” private businesses in a city without zoning, but my office is collaborating with the Harris County Constables Office to strengthen enforcement and accountability.

After a year of working with Houston Public Works, a $34,000 parking improvement project was queued for construction this December. However, based on feedback during National Night Out, I have instructed HPW to pause the project and redirect those funds to our backlog of critical repairs.

Drainage:
Several neighborhoods have been identified with drains experiencing blockage due to tree roots. Happy to report many have already been submitted for review and resolution. Another batch will be submitted after we export reports from 311 to understand how many additional streets should be included.

Ashford Park Sec. 6:
I had a great meeting with residents to discuss updates, reported 311 issues about dumping, debris, and parking issues with the tire shop off Westheimer. The residents have agreed to audit their streets, sidewalks by reporting to 311 and my office will follow up with HPW to provide a cost estimate and construction timeline for FY27 budget. Great energy and even better people.

Park Glen CIA:
I just want to personally shout-out Park Glen CIA for the surprise thank you poster presented to me during national night out – I was completely shocked. The poster is in my office for all to see. I enjoy representing you and I feel the love right back.

Public Safety:
There are a series of updates below highlighting the issues discussed at meetings over the last week and at National Night Out on October 7, 2025, at the bottom of the newsletter with images.

Crime Stoppers announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect(s) responsible for the 1997 sexual assault and murder of 14-year-old Erica Garcia in Alief.
If you have any information, please contact the Houston Police Department or Crime Stoppers. Watch the press conference here.

Hispanic Heritage Month:
While Hispanic Heritage Month has ended on the calendar, the impact and contributions of Houston’s Hispanic community remain ever-present — from our vibrant restaurants and cultural events to faith institutions and neighborhood leadership. Learn more about Houston’s rich Latino heritage through the Institute of Hispanic Culture of Houston here.

District F Updates:
Elsik High School Turns 50!
On Friday, November 7, I will present a City of Houston proclamation declaring Elsik High School Day as they celebrate this milestone at Crump Stadium during the matchup with Taylor High School. If you are an alumnus of Alief Elsik High School or if your kids or grandkids attended in the past, please consider celebrating with us.

Remember Cynthia Young:
The Alief Super Neighborhood has lost another anchor — Ms. Cynthia Young.

Cynthia served as secretary for SN25 and was a longtime HOA president of Park Glen West. She was a ball of fire and played no games — very much like her dear friend Barbara Quattro. Frick and Frack. When Cynthia was diagnosed early on, Barbara was right by her side — helping around the house, keeping her spirits up, and reminding her she wasn’t alone. Together, they were unstoppable. Real friends.

The two of them single-handedly secured thousands of dollars in food donations every year for the Empty Shelter Project volunteers. That was their show, and everyone knew it.
In 2022, when District F hosted the largest gun buyback in Houston, it was Cynthia and SN25 who sponsored meals for the volunteers and officers working over 8 hours that day. She used her gift and training in catering to serve her community.

Cynthia loved a good cruise and had no problem pointing out a handsome man — she’d pull me aside and whisper, “Who is that? He’s cute.”
I’ll miss you, my friend.

Her service will be held Saturday, October 25th at 10:30 AM at St. Martin’s Lutheran Church in Sugar Land.

Honoring Barbara Quattro:
Join SN25, District F and Council Member Sallie Alcorn (AL5) on Saturday, October 25 to celebrate the life and legacy of Barbara Quattro, a beloved leader in Alief.

9:00 a.m. – Tree planting in her honor. Register here.
11:30 a.m. – Celebration at the Alief Neighborhood Center, her crown jewel.

2025 Harris County Election:
The 2025 Harris County election is approaching on November 4, 2025, and it’s important to make sure you’re ready. Early voting begins October 20 and runs through October 31.
Before you head to the polls, take time to research what’s on your ballot—local offices, school board seats, constitutional amendments, and more. Staying informed helps you make confident decisions that reflect your values and your community’s needs.
Let’s make sure every registered voter in District F is ready to participate.

There seems to be so much loss around us all. Kindness is free. I experienced joy, laughter, and kindness throughout District F during National Night Out. Let’s practice kindness because we do not know what anyone else is going through.

Let’s keep the Westside, the best side.

National Night Out on the Westside – The Best Side!

On Tuesday night, Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas and the District F team were out celebrating National Night Out with neighbors across the district! We had the pleasure of visiting with residents from Westhollow, Tanglewilde, Parkglen, Contemporary Garden, Woodchase, Ashford Park Section 6, and Westpark Village—it was great to see everyone!

National Night Out is an annual community-building event that promotes police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie, and public safety awareness. Across the country, neighbors gather to strengthen relationships with law enforcement and each other, fostering safer, more connected communities.

While National Night Out happens just once a year, our office is here for you 365 days a year. We always want to hear from you—whether you have questions, concerns, or just want to say hello. Reach out to us anytime at [email protected] or 832-393-3002.

• File a 311 case, and
• Forward your case number to [email protected]

If your entire subdivision needs servicing for regular trash or recycling pickup, please:

• File a 311 case, and
• Email Sarai stating that your subdivision needs servicing and include your subdivision name.
• Include photos if possible.

You can also find your trash and recycling schedule or check for updates by visiting the Solid Waste Management website and entering your address under “Service Updates”:
https://www.houstontx.gov/solidwaste/

Council Member Thomas and the District F team are working closely with HPD’s Midwest and Westside Divisions to implement targeted safety plans focused on identified crime “hot spots” across the district.

At Ashford Court Apartments, HPD Westside recently conducted and shared a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) report with property ownership. The complex is now under new management and has begun implementing the recommended improvements. Both HPD and the District F office will continue to monitor their progress to ensure meaningful crime mitigation and long-term safety outcomes for residents.

At Crossview Courts, Midwest HPD is coordinating with the property owner on ongoing lawsuits involving PRIVE nightclub and a nearby convenience store. Meanwhile, the District F office is pursuing new no-parking signage, and is in conversation with property management about utilizing towing enforcement to reduce illegal parking.

While these issues will take time to resolve, active progress is underway, with additional identified hotspots included in the district’s broader safety plan. You may read the CPTED recommendations below.

Council Member Thomas attended meetings with Super Neighborhood 17, Ashford Park Section 6, and Brays Village East to connect directly with residents and community leaders on the Westside.

During each meeting, she shared updates on quality of life and public safety initiatives, highlighting the collaborative work between the District F office and the Houston Police Department. Council Member Thomas also discussed ongoing infrastructure projects currently in the queue, as well as upcoming agenda items at City Hall.

She emphasized the importance of residents serving as an extra set of eyes and ears for the community, and the critical role of reporting concerns to 311. Every report helps the District F office track, route, and follow up on service requests to ensure that neighborhood needs are addressed efficiently and effectively.

Council Member Thomas extends her thanks to all who participated and remains committed to open communication, collaboration, and action across District F.

This past Saturday, October 11, Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas hosted the 2nd Annual Faith & Affordable Housing Summit at the Kingdom Builders’ Center—welcoming more than 150 guests from across Houston’s faith, housing, and development communities.

The event featured inspiring remarks from Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II, virtual remarks from Senator Elizabeth Warren, and an uplifting message from Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell. Special thanks to Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum for welcoming attendees to District K and joining the program.

We are deeply grateful to our sponsors—the Greater Houston Builders Association, DSW Homes, TX First Bank, ITEX, Houston Defender Media, and Enterprise Community Partners—and to our partners at HCDD, LISC, the Harris County Tax Assessor’s Office, HBREA, HREA CDC, and the Houston Area Urban League. A special shoutout goes to our incredible volunteers from Prairie View A&M University, HAULYP, and the District F staff for making the day run seamlessly.

The Summit was a resounding success—filled with collaboration, education, and inspiration. If you were unavailable to join us, you can watch the recording here!

Council Member Thomas looks forward to continuing this vital conversation about transforming faith-owned land into housing, opportunity, and hope. See you next year for an even bigger and better Faith & Affordable Housing Summit!

On Tuesday, October 7, Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas and the District F team were honored to welcome representatives from the Philippine Consulate and members of Houston’s Filipino American community to City Hall in celebration of Filipino American History Month.

During the public session, community representatives shared stories highlighting the strength, resilience, and contributions of Filipino Americans to both the United States and the City of Houston. Council Member Thomas expressed her gratitude for the community’s friendship and partnership, noting how proud she was to see them return to City Hall to celebrate their heritage and culture.

Council  Member Thomas remains committed to uplifting Houston’s Filipino community, whose contributions continue to strengthen and enrich our city.

Sign up here for general Volunteer Team opportunities.

Sign up here for our Volunteer Translation Team to assist with outreach and ensure all voices in our diverse district are heard.

Together, we can strengthen and support District F!

Alief Super Neighborhood Council Monthly Meetings
Hurricane Beryl Disaster Recovery Free Home Repairs
Ibn Sina Avicena Clinics Child and Parental Health Services

Obtain additional information about permits by contacting Houston Public Works (HPW) via 311, or by visiting their Permitting Center website at www.houstonpermittingcenter.org. If you have further questions about any permits, please contact the Code Enforcement Group at 832-394-9000.