Dear District K Friends:

August is a time of transition as our children settle into their new school routines and our community continues to grow stronger. It’s a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and look ahead to the work we still need to do together.

One of the simplest yet most powerful ways we can support each other is by keeping our neighborhoods clean. A well-maintained community not only looks inviting but helps create a safer, healthier environment for all of us. I encourage you to join local clean-up efforts, properly dispose of trash, and report any issues you see around our district.

Beyond cleanliness, our strength lies in how we look out for one another. Check in on your neighbors, especially seniors and families who might need a little extra help. Share resources when you can, whether that’s school supplies, information, or just a friendly word. It’s these small acts of kindness that make District K a welcoming and vibrant place to live.

Finally, please take a moment to share this newsletter with your neighbors and friends. The more people who are engaged and have access to important information, the stronger our community becomes. When we stay connected and informed, we all benefit.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to District K. Together, we’re creating a neighborhood where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

In Service

Martha

New Director of Constituent Services Hits the Ground Running with HOT Team

Meet the heart of District K’s cleanup crew in action! Our new Director of Constituent Services, Eric D. Goodwine Sr., wasted no time jumping in. Alongside Eddie, our longest-serving HOT Team member. They tackled piles of illegally dumped tires scattered around the neighborhood.

This is leadership in motion: not just talking about change, but rolling up sleeves and making it happen. Their hard work helps keep our streets cleaner and our community safer.

Illegal dumping hurts all of us, but when we come together, we can protect the beauty and safety of District K. Keep reporting those dumping sites and let’s keep our neighborhoods shining!

#DistrictKStrong #TeamWork #CommunityFirst #StopIllegalDumping

 

District K Crime Update — June 2025

Each month, the Office of Planning & Data Governance shares a Crime by Council District report to keep us informed about crime trends in our area. The June report shows violent crime in District K is down by 22% and that’s great news for our community!

The data is highly accurate, based on verified reports submitted to the FBI. For a closer look, click here to read the full report:

https://www.houstontx.gov/police/department_reports/Crimeby_CouncilDistrict/crime_by_council_district_2025.pdf

 

Bandit Sign Crackdown Starts September 1

Seeing this Houston Chronicle article reminds me why I dedicated six years to fighting for stronger bandit sign laws. These deceptive signs plague neighborhoods citywide. Starting September 1st, HB 3611 gives us real power to hold those responsible accountable when they post false claims on city rights-of-way. With significantly higher fines, we’re aiming to stop these predatory practices through firm enforcement. This story highlights why passing HB 3611 was so important, and why we must ensure the law is strongly enforced once it takes effect.

Click here to view the article

#BanditSign #KeepHoustoniansSafe #PolicyMatters

 

Short-Term Rental Registration Launch Delayed to October 1, 2025

The City’s STR registration will now open on October 1, 2025, instead of the originally planned August 1 date. This delay allows more time to address technical issues and gather feedback for a smooth rollout.

After registration opens, applicants will have 90 days to complete their registration before enforcement begins on January 1, 2026.

Here’s what you’ll need to apply for your STR Certificate of Registration:

  • Property address
  • Owner’s name(s) and contact info
  • For non-individual owners, documents proving entity registration and good standing with the Texas Secretary of State
  • 24/7 emergency contact name and phone number
  • Names and websites of all booking platforms advertising your property
  • Signed Property Owner Authorization & Acknowledgement Form
  • Proof of payment or registration for Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT)
  • Non-refundable application fee of $275 plus $33.10 administrative fee
  • Acknowledgement of completed human trafficking awareness training (approved programs listed in Attachment A)

For more details and forms, visit the STR registration page [HERE].

 

Proposed Scooter Ban in Key Houston Areas We Want Your Input!

The City of Houston is considering creating a “scooter-free zone” that would ban electric scooters in some of the busiest parts of the city including downtown, midtown, and east downtown. This is allowed under Texas state law if it’s deemed necessary for public safety.

What do you think? Should scooters be banned in these areas, or do they add value to our city’s mobility? Your feedback is important and will help shape this decision.

Share your thoughts on the City of Houston’s official page or email us directly at District K.

🔗 [Link to city feedback page]

📧 [email protected]

 

Fondren Road Project Update: Community Outreach in Action

Community Connect Drone View - Fondren Rd. Project
Following a recent virtual meeting, the City of Houston’s public engagement team visited the Fondren Road project area to notify stakeholders and capture drone footage of the current roadway conditions from Brays Bayou to West Airport.

The video highlights key issues like cracks, potholes, and worn pavement, as well as traffic flow at major intersections. All part of our commitment to transparency before construction begins.

During the visit, residents were informed about upcoming community meetings to ensure their voices are heard throughout the project.

Stay informed on this and other projects at engagehouston.org and be sure to subscribe for updates.

 

Join the Virtual Public Meeting for the Regional Transportation Plan 2050

Mark your calendar for August 12th! The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) invites all residents, community leaders, and transportation stakeholders to a virtual public meeting to share your thoughts on the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) 2050.

This plan will guide future investments across the eight-county Houston-Galveston region, including roads, public transit, bike and pedestrian infrastructure, freight movement, and new transportation technologies.

Your input is crucial! Tell us how you travel today, the challenges you face, and what improvements you want to see. Together, we’ll build a transportation system that works for everyone, because this is My Plan, Your Plan, Our Plan.

Scan the QR Code Above or visit RTP2050.com for more information.

Click this link to join the zoom.

 

Houston Fire Department Re-Employment Program Now Open!

Former Houston Fire Department Classified members with current TCFP and at least EMT certification, you’re invited to “Re-ignite your passion” and rejoin the HFD!

Here’s what to expect:

  • 5 weeks of re-acclimation training, including lectures, practical sessions, and drills
  • Training in fire suppression, rescue, pump operation, and emergency medical services

Requirements include:

  • Up-to-date immunizations
  • Verification of Firefighter and EMT/Paramedic certifications
  • Successful completion of the hiring process (physical test, interview, background check, and more)

Ready to serve again? Apply today and be part of Houston’s finest!

 

Sysco To Go Opens New Store in District K

I was honored to celebrate with the Sysco team as they unveiled their new store and an exciting addition for Houston’s bustling restaurant community right here in District K!

As the Economic Development Chair, I’m thrilled to see this formerly empty storefront come to life, supporting our city’s dynamic food scene. This new location not only creates over 100 jobs but also offers local businesses quick, affordable access to essential foodservice products.

Located in the heart of Houston’s medical, sports, and entertainment district, Sysco To Go caters to a diverse range of customers from food trucks and caterers to neighborhood eateries, all benefiting from the convenience of in-store pickup.

A big congratulations to Sysco To Go. We’re excited to welcome you to the neighborhood and watch your impact grow!

#1212OldSpanishTrail #DistrictK #SyscoToGo

 

Exciting Changes Coming to Hiram Clarke & Fort Bend

Big improvements are underway for the Hiram Clarke and Fort Bend communities! We’re investing in infrastructure, mobility, and green spaces to revitalize the area and boost quality of life.

This month, the Hiram Clarke Fort Bend Redevelopment Authority highlights a bold new public art project, flexible transit options, and capital improvements all designed with YOU in mind.

Learn more in the full newsletter here: Click Link

 

COH Youth Ambassadors Applications are OPEN!

Want to make a real impact in Houston? The City of Houston Youth Ambassadors Program is looking for passionate young leaders (ages 13–18) ready to step up, learn, and make their voices heard!

Here’s what you can expect:

✅ Connect directly with city leaders

✅ Work on important projects like mental health, child rights, education equity, and more

✅ Build leadership skills and help shape our city’s future

🗓 Don’t wait! Apply by August 22, 2025

🔗 Apply now: linktr.ee/cohyouthambassadors

#YouthVoice #HoustonYouth #CivicEngagement #HoustonTeens

 

Neighborhood Matching Grants: Fund Your Community’s Beautification Projects

The City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods is offering a dollar-for-dollar matching grant reimbursement from $500 to $5,000 to support neighborhood improvement and beautification projects.

Who’s eligible?

  • Neighborhood-based or civic organizations registered as 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofits in Texas
  • Or partnered with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofit if not registered themselves
  • Must represent a specific area within Houston city limits
  • Must demonstrate plans to fund and maintain the project in the future
  • Note: Political organizations and individuals are not eligible.

Key Dates:

  • August 31, 2025: Submit your Intent to Apply form by 11:59 p.m. (Early submission encouraged!)
  • November 1, 2025: Deadline to submit your full application packet
  • May 31, 2026: Project completion and all documentation due

How to get started:

Register for the online Information Session and watch the 15-minute video to learn about qualifying projects, the application process, and grant requirements.

Download the Intent to Apply form, application packet, and instructions to begin.

This is a great opportunity to make a visible difference in your neighborhood. Don’t miss out!

 

Industry Day: Connect with Houston’s Architectural Engineering & Construction Community

Join us Tuesday, August 19th, from 1:00 to 5:30 p.m. at the West Houston Institute (2811 Hayes Rd) for Industry Day. It’s a must-attend event for businesses in the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.

Discover upcoming projects and procurement opportunities, connect directly with government buyers, and participate in workshops led by County departments. Gain valuable insights, best practices, and strategies to navigate public contracting and build strong partnerships.

Partners include: Port of Houston, Regional Hispanic Contractors, H-GAC, and Houston Minority Supplier Development Council.

Don’t miss this chance to grow your network and expand your business!

 

Neighborhoods, Get Ready for National Night Out

Is your neighborhood organization planning to take part in this year’s National Night Out? Don’t forget to register your event using this link to receive official materials and support to make your gathering a success!

Once you’ve registered, please reach out to Joe Gatson in the District K Office with your event’s time and location. Email [email protected] or call 832.393.3016. We want to celebrate your efforts and help spread the word about the great work happening in our community.

Let’s come together to promote safety, friendship, and fun across District K!

#DistrictKSafety #NationalNightOut

 

Glenshire Park Playground Update

Following the recent safety inspection, the current playground at Glenshire Park did not meet required safety standards. For everyone’s protection, the City of Houston’s Park’s Department has placed a temporary fence around the playground and posted signs to keep visitors informed.

The playground structure will be completely removed soon, but the swing set will remain open for use.

Good news! Funds have been allocated for a brand new playground! Over the next 90 days, we’ll share design options with the community and welcome your input.

Thank you for helping us keep our parks safe and enjoyable for all.

 

Highlights from District K Community Events

Here are a few photos capturing some of the vibrant community events that took place across District K over the past month.

The list includes:

  • HPD End of Summer Bash
  • Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation Backpack Giveaway
  • Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum’s “Doing Business with the City of Houston”
  • District K Interns Visit the State Capitol
  • Brays Oaks YES Prep Ribbon Cutting
  • Madison Alumni & Hiram Clarke Education Scholarship Presentation
  • WYF Back to School Event
  • Busy Bee Wellness Backpack Giveaway at Marian Park Community Center
  • Meyerpark Charter School Back to School Community & Health Awareness Event
  • HHD School Supplies Giveaway to Teachers
  • Edison Lofts Backpack Giveaway
  • … and more!