Hello District K Family,

Happy September! I hope this message finds you well and feeling optimistic about the new season ahead. Fall is always a time of change and renewal, and I’m excited about all the great things happening in District K.

From neighborhood celebrations and school events to important city initiatives, there is so much positive energy flowing through our community. Thank you for showing up, getting involved, and being a part of what makes District K one of the best places to live in Houston. Together, we’re making a real difference—block by block, neighbor by neighbor.

As your Mayor Pro Tem, I’m honored to serve you and work alongside so many passionate people who care deeply about this community. Let’s keep the momentum going as we head into the final months of 2025.

Stay engaged, stay hopeful, and remember: our strength is in our unity.

In Service

Martha

 

Trains Can’t Stop Quickly—But You Can

Every year in Texas, far too many lives are lost in tragic accidents at highway rail crossings and along railroad tracks. In 2024 alone, more than 300 people were killed or injured in grade crossing crashes, and dozens more in pedestrian incidents on railroad property. These aren’t just numbers—they’re families, friends, and neighbors whose lives were forever changed.

The reality is that these tragedies are preventable. Crashes between trains, vehicles, and pedestrians often happen because someone took a shortcut, ignored signals, or underestimated the speed of an oncoming train. A single moment of distraction can have lifelong consequences.

That’s why Operation Lifesaver leads the charge in spreading the message: “See Tracks? Think Train!” It’s a reminder to all of us drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians to be alert and make safe choices near tracks and trains.

From September 15–21, 2024, communities across Texas will come together to recognize See Tracks? Think Train!® Week. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, start conversations, and most importantly, save lives.

Let’s all commit to slowing down, paying attention, and encouraging others to do the same. Because when it comes to trains, safety is everyone’s responsibility.

 

District K Quiet Zones: Stay Alert at Railroad Crossings

Did you know District K has several Quiet Zones where trains don’t routinely sound their horns? These zones, like those along South Main, were created to reduce noise in our neighborhoods and improve quality of life.

While the peace and quiet is great, it also means we all need to stay extra alert near railroad crossings in these areas. Always obey crossing signals, look both ways, and never try to beat a train.

Quiet Zones make our community more livable, but safety is still the top priority. Let’s all do our part to stay aware and keep District K safe!

#SeeTracksThinkTrain #DistrictKSafety

 

What’s A Management District And Why It Matters

Have you ever wondered who helps keep parts of District K looking sharp, safe, and inviting? That’s where Management Districts come in!

Management districts are special areas created by the Texas Legislature to enhance economic growth, public safety, and quality of life. They’re funded by commercial property assessments not residential taxes, and focus on things like landscaping, graffiti removal, public art, safety patrols, and community events.

Right here in District K, we’re proud to have two active management districts working to make our community thrive:

  • Five Corners Improvement District – Partnering with city leaders, businesses, and residents to beautify neighborhoods and boost economic development.
  • Braes Oaks Management District – Enhancing safety, supporting local businesses, and keeping our community clean and welcoming.

Want to learn more or get involved? Visit 5CornersDistrict.org and BraesOaksMD.org to see how both teams are investing in District K every day!

 

District K Crime Update — July 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 July report shows violent crime in District K is down by 199 incidents 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: July Crime Report

 

Let’s Keep Our Esplanades Beautiful

A big thank-you to our Solid Waste team for making the Buffalo Speedway esplanades (W. Orem to W. Fuqua) look the best they’ve looked in months! Clean, green spaces like this bring pride to our neighborhoods but illegal dumping is still a problem across District K.

Esplanades are not dumping grounds. Please don’t leave trash, tree debris, furniture, contractor materials, or other waste in these shared spaces. Cameras are being installed in certain areas to help deter this behavior, but true change starts with all of us doing our part.

Need to get rid of bulky items or yard debris? Use 311 to schedule a pickup or visit houston311.org to find proper disposal options.

Let’s work together to keep District K beautiful, safe, and welcoming for everyone. 💚

#KeepDistrictKBeautiful

 

District K in Action: Making Trash Can Service Faster for You!

Getting a new or replacement trash bin in Houston is now easier than ever thanks to Mayor John Whitmire’s Can Blitz program! This new initiative lets residents pick up black trash bins directly instead of waiting weeks for delivery.

But here in District K, we’re taking it a step further. Our dedicated team has been out in the community, personally picking up and delivering cans to neighbors who reached out for help.

Can Blitz Details:

📅 Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
📅 2nd & 4th Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
📍 SWMD Service Center – North: 5614 Neches St.
📍 SWMD Service Center – Southeast: 1506 Central St.
📍 Environmental Service Center – South: 11500 S. Post Oak Rd.

What to Bring:

  • A copy of your water bill (for address verification)
  • Your 311 Service Request (SR) number
  • Your damaged can (if exchanging)

If you can’t pick up your bin in person, no worries, home delivery is still available through the 311 request process.

District K is proud to lead the way in making city services faster, more convenient, and closer to home!

 

Be Part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Houston!

Volunteer applications for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ are officially OPEN! 🎉

This is your chance to be part of a once-in-a-generation event happening right here in our city.

Don’t miss out, grab a friend, sign up together, and get ready to make history with us!

Apply here: https://fifa.fans/3H2d6eq

#WeAre26 #BeatAsOne #WeAreHouston #FIFAWorldCup

 

Thank You, District K Neighborhood Heroes!

A big shout-out to all our incredible neighborhood groups and residents who roll up their sleeves to keep our community beautiful! Your clean-up efforts whether it’s picking up litter, planting flowers, or sprucing up common spaces make a huge difference in the look and feel of our neighborhoods.

Because of your dedication, District K continues to shine as a welcoming and vibrant place to call home. Thank you for taking pride in where you live and showing that when we work together, we create a stronger, cleaner, and safer community for everyone.

We see you, we appreciate you, and we’re proud to stand alongside you in making Houston a city we can all be proud of. Keep up the amazing work!

 

McNee Rd

Great news! The McNee Road rehabilitation project stretching from Kirby Dr. to Main St. near NRG Stadium is officially complete! This upgrade means smoother, safer, and more reliable travel for both residents and visitors.

A huge thank you to Houston Public Works, our project partners, and the incredible District K team for working together to deliver this project on time. Investments like these are key to improving mobility, safety, and economic growth in our community.

I’m proud to see another infrastructure project making life better for the people of Houston and there’s more on the way!

 

Appraisal District Looking for Applicants

If you’ve ever wanted to play a role in keeping property taxes fair in Harris County, here’s your chance! The Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD) is now accepting applications for the Appraisal Review Board (ARB)—a group of dedicated citizens who review and decide property tax protests.

What’s the role?

ARB members serve on panels to hear from both property owners and HCAD representatives, then make fair, evidence-based decisions. This isn’t a job with HCAD; it’s a way to serve your community, and members are paid per diem for hearings and meetings.

Time commitment:

The ARB works year-round, but the busiest season runs mid-May through October, when members may need to be available weekdays and some Saturdays.

Who can apply:

You must be:

  • A Harris County resident for at least two years
  • Up to date on your property taxes (or on a payment plan)
  • Someone who has not served three prior ARB terms

Certain conflicts of interest—like recent work as a tax consultant, holding certain public offices, or contracts with local governments—make applicants ineligible.

How to apply:

Applications are open starting September 1, 2025 and will be accepted until all spots are filled.

  • Visit HCAD.org and click on the “ARB Application” button to apply online.
  • Questions? Call 713.957.5265 for more information.

If you’re passionate about fairness and serving your community, this is a great opportunity to make a real impact!

 

Your Vote Matters! November 4, 2025 General & Special Elections

Election Day is right around the corner, and your voice matters more than ever! On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Texans will head to the polls to vote on 17 proposed Texas Constitutional Amendments, Congressional District 18, and important local races that shape our communities.

📅 Key Dates:

  • October 6 – Last day to update your voter registration
  • October 20–31 – Early Voting (with weekend options)
  • October 24 – Vote by Mail application deadline
  • November 4 – Election Day, polls open 7 AM–7 PM

📍 Find polling locations, sample ballots, and early voting info:

Whether you vote early, by mail, or on Election Day, make a plan to vote and encourage your friends and neighbors to do the same. Your vote is your power don’t let it go unused!

 

Developer’s Networking Reception: Your Path Into Real Estate Development

Are you interested in real estate development or looking to connect with leaders in the industry? Join the Hiram Clarke/Fort Bend Redevelopment Authority’s Quarterly Networking Reception for an evening of networking, learning, and resource-sharing.

📅 Thursday, September 11
🕕 6:00 PM
📍 FountainLife Center
14083 South Main Street, Houston, TX 77035

This quarter’s theme is Community-Based Development: From Idea to Investment. Meet the Redevelopment Authority Board, connect with strategic partners, and gain valuable insights from featured speakers:

  • Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose – President & CEO, NAREB
  • Leon Wilson – Redevelopment Director, City of Houston Housing & Community Development
  • Malcolm Sykes – Partner, Levcor
  • Andre Beadle – Real Estate Professional
  • Troy Carter – Edison Center

🔗 Scan the QR code on the flyer to register today!

Don’t miss this opportunity to network, exchange ideas, and explore ways to invest in the future of our community.

 

Empowering Teens Through Education

The Hiram Clarke Education Team (HCET) is hosting a special program designed to give 8th and 9th graders the tools they need to thrive academically and plan for their futures! Students will explore:

  • 🎯 Goal Setting
  • 💵 Financial Literacy
  • 📰 Media Literacy
  • 🔍 Research Skills for Career and College Planning

📅 When: Saturday, September 27
🕥 Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 Where: Vinson Neighborhood Library
3810 W. Fuqua St., Houston, TX 77045

(Inside the Hiram Clarke Multi-Service Center)

This exciting opportunity is designed to help students strengthen essential life skills and boost their confidence as they prepare for high school, college, and beyond.

✉️ For details or to register, email TheHiramClarkeEducationTeam@gmail.com.

 

An Exciting Opportunity: Host an International Student

High schools in District K and surrounding areas will welcome international exchange students through Greenheart Exchange. These students, from over 60 countries, will live with local families, attend school here, and share their unique cultures while learning about life in the U.S.

Hosting is a special way for families to experience another culture firsthand, gain a fresh perspective, and build lifelong friendships—without leaving home!

Greenheart also offers:

  • Reciprocal School-to-School Exchange Programs
  • Qualified international teachers for up to five years
  • Study abroad and language camp programs for teens and teachers in Asia, Europe, and Latin America

📩 Learn more about this exciting opportunity at hostwithgreenheart.org.

 

HPL Launches Mental Health & Wellness K-12

Looking for engaging, family-friendly activities? The Houston Public Library’s Family Place Play Series is back this fall at Stimley-Blue Ridge and Walker libraries! These free events are perfect for parents and caregivers with young children to learn, play, and connect with local family support experts.

🌟 What to Expect:

  • Hands-on activities designed for children under 5
  • Parenting resources and early literacy tips
  • Opportunities to meet community experts and other families

📍 Walker Neighborhood Library

  • 11630 Chimney Rock Rd., Houston, TX 77035
  • 🗓️ Sessions: Sept. 18, 25, Oct. 2, 9, 16 – 10:30 AM

Come join the fun, strengthen early learning skills, and make your local library part of your family’s routine!

 

Free Community Legal Workshop – Secure Your Peace of Mind

The A.I.R. Project (Abuse Is Real) is partnering with the Devenere Law Collective to bring you a FREE in-person legal workshop designed to help families and individuals secure essential legal documents before a crisis happens.

This workshop is a great opportunity for Houstonians—especially underserved community members to get critical resources at no cost, including:

  • Medical Power of Attorney
  • Statutory Durable Power of Attorney
  • Declaration of Guardianship
  • HIPAA Authorization
  • Non-Disclosure & Confidentiality Agreement

📅 Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM
📍 Location: Alief Neighborhood Center, 11903 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77072
✅ Registration Required: abuseisreal.com/calendar

Space is limited, so please only register if you plan to attend in person. Help spread the word and share this amazing opportunity with someone who could benefit!

For details, contact: [email protected] or 707-968-7247.

 

Westbury Community Garden: Growing Partnerships with Local Schools

At last month’s Haviland Park event, Marcia Hartman and Debbie Gordon of the Westbury Community Garden met Foerster Elementary Principal Trevor Williams, who mentioned the school’s entryway and courtyard needed a serious refresh. The Westbury Community Garden team wasted no time answering the call!

With the help of volunteers and support from Home Depot, they transformed Foerster’s campus:

  • Entryway: Trimmed hedges, spread 3 yards of mulch, and added vibrant plants to two large pots.
  • Courtyard 1: Revitalized two veggie gardens, cleared weeds, and added fresh greenery.
  • Courtyard 2: Planted colorful flowers, trimmed bushes, and cleaned up the entire space.

Thanks to this incredible effort, Foerster now has a warm and welcoming entryway and a courtyard bursting with life! 🌸

But this is just one example of how deeply the Westbury community invests in its schools.

From hygiene drives and teacher appreciation events to active PTO support and financial contributions, the community has always been there for Westbury High School (WHS), Anderson Elementary, Parker Elementary, Meyerland Middle School, and Foerster Elementary. The Friends of WHS Foundation alone has donated over $600,000 in scholarships to WHS students!

When the Westbury Community Garden was first built, two rows of raised beds were dedicated to Foerster students, and every Tuesday, a second-grade class would come to garden. Though that tradition paused, this recent partnership marks a beautiful reconnection.

This is what Westbury is all about—neighbors giving their time, talent, and treasure to ensure our schools thrive. Here’s to more green spaces, community partnerships, and opportunities for students to grow both inside and outside the classroom!

 

District K Business Spotlight: Hiram Clarke BBQ

Right here in District K, Paul Jacob, pitmaster and owner of Hiram Clarke BBQ, is serving up a flavorful mix of Houston barbecue, Louisiana soul, and blues history. A Texas Southern University graduate with deep family cooking roots, Jacob first smoked meat for thousands of fans at the Little Walter Music Festival, honoring his legendary relative.

When the pandemic paused the festival, Jacob turned his passion into a business, perfecting signature rubs, sauces, and handmade sausage links. His “Tex-Lou” collard greens, Cajun stew, and dirty rice celebrate his Louisiana heritage while adding something special to Houston’s barbecue scene.

Though early challenges—including break-ins—nearly closed his doors, support from the community kept him going. Today, Jacob proudly operates two locations, with his original spot right here in District K, continuing a tradition of great food, culture, and resilience.

Make sure to stop by Hiram Clarke BBQ and taste a true District K success story!

 

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

Stimley-Blue Ridge Library Temporary Closure

The Stimley-Blue Ridge Library will be closed starting September 1 through mid-October for roof replacement work. We appreciate your patience as we make these important improvements to the facility.

During the closure, patrons are encouraged to visit Vinson Library, located just 10 minutes away at 3810 West Fuqua St., Houston, TX 77045.

For continued service, you can also explore nearby Houston Public Library locations or take advantage of digital resources anytime at www.houstonlibrary.org.