The Thomas Telegraph | Vol. 7, Issue 3 – February 7, 2025

I invite you to explore the latest updates and highlights from the District F newsletter below:

Public Safety

I’m partnering with the Westside HPD Station on a strategic initiative targeting crime hot spots in Westchase. To support this, I have directed $20,000 of council funds toward the effort. Stay tuned for an official announcement with further details in the coming weeks.

In Tanglewilde, several residents have reported a string of robberies. These cases have been documented, and neighbors are actively collaborating to enhance community safety. However, I want to emphasize the importance of allowing HPD to engage with potential suspects to prevent escalation. Please continue sharing surveillance footage and photos with law enforcement as needed. I am also in touch with the Houston Apartment Association for additional support and updates.

Houston Public Works

Two weeks ago, I presented ongoing District F infrastructure projects, including sidewalk repairs, parking improvements, and street lighting updates. I will provide regular updates as new progress is made.

Currently, I am awaiting updates on:

• The Gessner CIP project with an updated traffic study
• Cost estimates for improvements on Hullsmith and Westheimer Rd
• Updated Storm Water Plan

GREAT NEWS – The $8M Hackberry & Boone Park Drainage Mitigation project is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2027 with completion in 2028. More details on this project once we have scheduled public meetings.

Reminder: If you encounter issues such as water leaks, street damage, or major reconstruction needs, please call 311 and note your service request number. My office will follow up with the respective department only after the standard protocol timeframe has passed. For example, if a water leak repair typically takes 10-14 days, we will check in after day 14 to ensure proper investigation and work order completion.

Westpark Expansion Project

Harris County has approved a study to explore the potential expansion of the Westpark Tollway. Given that this major project runs directly through District F and Mission Bend, I urge you to participate in the public engagement process. I am working with Fort Bend County Commissioner Dexter McCoy to host a joint community session where you can get the latest updates and share feedback. Stay tuned for details.

Learn more about the project here.

Homelessness Initiative

During last week’s Quality of Life Committee meeting, I shared concernsover the lack of outreach on the west side during Winter Storm Enzo. While my office, along with Agape Christian Fellowship and the Alief YMCA, opened shelters, we need more proactive efforts to transport and support our unhoused neighbors. The Mayor’s Office has outlined a tentative plan to address homelessness, which includes implementing the Civility Ordinance citywide, prohibiting public sleeping in which I am not in support of. You can watch the meeting and provide feedback by emailing districtf@houstontx.gov.

Additionally, my office is collaborating with West Houston Assistance Ministries, Agape Christian Fellowship, and Heads Up Houston on an outreach initiative to connect with unsheltered individuals. If you see an encampment, please take a photo and email it to districtf@houstontx.gov.

Community Celebrations

Happy Lunar New Year to our Asian neighbors—may this Year of the Snake bring you joy and prosperity!
Happy Black History Month! I encourage everyone to explore events hosted by the Houston Public Library and other local organizationscelebrating Black history and culture.

Thanks for keeping the westside, the best side.

P. S. I am hiring. See job description for Manager, Constituent Services and Administrative Affairs here.

The discussion reflected on actionable insights and a vision for improving educational outcomes that align with the goals of District F. Our office will share the link for listeners once the final version is made available on Spotify.

Council Member Thomas served as Mistress of Ceremonies, setting an engaging tone for an evening which included remarks from notable figures such as Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee, Houston City Controller Chris Hollins, and U.S. Congressman Sylvester Turner.

Barbara’s efforts include planting 5,000 trees through the NeighborWoods program and establishing the Alief Community Garden, a space that unites neighbors and inspires future sustainability leaders. Her work has left a lasting impact, fostering a greener, more connected Alief. Find out more about this initiative here.

Highlights included plans for upcoming speed cushion and streetlight installations, crime report insights, and updates addressing constituent concerns. Additionally, Jessica Mullins, an Alief ISD alumnus and CEO of Impact Residential, presented a proposed development project adding to affordable housing in District F.

The discussion focused on disaster response, cultural heritage preservation, and economic development initiatives that could benefit both communities. This productive meeting sets the stage for exciting partnerships and impactful projects in the near future. Stay tuned for updates as these collaborations take shape!

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to providing pathways for higher education and empowering students to achieve their academic and career goals. District F is proud to support initiatives that strengthen access to quality education for our community. Find out more about this partnershiphere.

Thanks to the expertise of the Law Firm of Rice & Rice and the dedication of a few committed homeowners, the HOA is back on track. If you’re a homeowner in Crown Colony, please prioritize attending the next meeting to vote for your HOA representatives—your participation makes a difference.

Council Member Thomas reaffirmed her commitment to working with county, federal, and other partners to ensure these vital projects reach the finish line. You can find the report here.

During the meeting, Council Member Thomas connected with former Prairie View A&M University President Dr. Ruth J. Simmons, Courtney Johnson Rose, and GHP executive LaTanya Flix, celebrating shared commitments to people, prosperity, and places.

From the Vietnamese American Community Association (VACA) & Seniors Community to the Chinese Community Center and the Vietnamese Community of Houston and Vicinities (VNCH), these events celebrated cultural traditions and brought together families and neighbors.

District F is proud to honor the rich cultural heritage of our diverse communities, fostering unity and joy as we welcome a prosperous new year!

The event supported the 2025 Hobby Fellows program, providing students with valuable legislative experience as they prepare for impactful careers in public service.

You can find the presentation and more details at the following link: Housing & Affordability Committee Presentation. For more information and updates on the Housing & Affordability Committee meetings visit our website here.