District K: April Newsletter

Spring is here, and with it comes a renewed energy across District K. April always reminds us of the importance of community, connection, and caring for the spaces we call home.

While the weather didn’t cooperate for this year’s Keep Houston Beautiful Day, Westbury Civic Club held their event on April 6th. I also want to thank all of our dedicated civic clubs, neighborhood leaders, and volunteers who were geared up and ready to serve. Your willingness to step up—rain or shine—shows the heart of this community. We’ll be looking for ways to reschedule or support future beautification efforts, so stay tuned!

This month, I also want to spotlight our continued focus on mental health and public safety. I recently submitted a letter of support for ongoing funding of the Crisis Diversion Program, which helps get trained mental health professionals on the scene when someone is experiencing a crisis. This program is saving lives, reducing unnecessary arrests, and helping folks get connected to the care they truly need.

My team and I remain committed to strengthening District K—from infrastructure and safety improvements to community engagement. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.

Thank you for being the backbone of our community. Together, we’re keeping District K strong, resilient, and beautiful—even when the rain tries to slow us down.

In Service

Martha

Short Term Rentals Update

The vote on the proposed ordinance was postponed at our April 2nd City Council meeting to allow for more discussion and public input.

🔗 Here’s what’s available to help you dive in:

• Proposed Ordinance
• Overview of the Ordinance
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Sample STR Registration Application
• 🎥  Watch the full recording: STR Information meeting.

We encourage you to take a look and share with your neighbors. The more we know, the better we can advocate for our communities.

Please share any feedback you may have as I consider this proposed ordinance. Contact District K office: [email protected]

#ShortTermRentals #DistrictKNeighborhoods #MPAC #CommunityMatters #StayInformed

District K Business Spotlight:
Welcome to Doña Leti’s Restaurant!

The grand opening celebration, held on Saturday, March 1st, 2025, was a festive and heartwarming event that brought neighbors together to celebrate not only a new business—but a beautiful story of family, perseverance, and community impact.

Named in honor of the family’s beloved matriarch, Doña Leti, the restaurant is a tribute to her legacy and love for food and family. The journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the family served the Houston community from a food truck at The Power Center. From those humble beginnings, Doña Leti’s has grown rapidly—this new South Post Oak location marks their third brick-and-mortar restaurant.

This expansion brings with it a significant investment in District K, creating 200 new jobs in the hospitality sector and boosting our local economy through sales tax revenue. Even more meaningful is their continued commitment to offering affordable, high-quality, family-friendly traditional Mexican cuisine—a welcome addition to our local dining scene.

We are excited to see Doña Leti’s thrive and grow right here in our community. Congratulations to the entire team—we’re so glad to have you in District K!

#DistrtickKSmallBusiness #DistrictKDevelopment #FamilyBusiness

Houston Gears Up to Host the World for
FIFA World Cup 2026™

Between June 14 and July 4, 2026, NRG Stadium will host seven matches, drawing millions of eyes—and visitors—to our city. This is more than just a sports event; it’s an incredible opportunity to showcase Houston’s hospitality, diversity, and world-class infrastructure on a global stage.

Recently, the Greater Houston Partnership brought together public and private sector leaders to talk strategy—from safety and security to transportation and fan experience. I was pleased to join Chris Canetti of Houston 2026, Leah Mastaglio of NRG Park and moderator Ryan Walsh (CEO of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority) in a dynamic conversation on how our region is preparing for this historic moment.

The collaboration required is significant—but so are the rewards. With an estimated $1.5 billion economic impact, this event will energize local businesses, create jobs, and cement Houston’s place as a premier international destination.

And for our District K residents, we haven’t forgotten about you. We’re already meeting with the Transportation Committee to help make sure there’s minimal disruption to your daily routines when the tournament kicks off. As we get closer to game time, we’ll continue these conversations and keep you in the loop every step of the way.

Local business owners, this is also a huge opportunity for you! You can register your business on Buy Houston, By Houston to be part of the action and get connected to potential World Cup-related contracts and opportunities. Just head to www.houstonsports.org/bhbh to sign up.

Want to stay plugged in? Visit www.fwc26houston.com for the latest updates, and be sure to follow their socials for behind-the-scenes content and announcements.

We’re ready to welcome the world—and we’ll do it the Houston way.

Cracking Down on Bandit Signs
Third Time’s the Charm?

This bill would increase fines for repeat offenders who litter our neighborhoods with illegal bandit signs—many of which promote scams targeting the most vulnerable in our communities. These signs aren’t just unsightly; they’re predatory, and they undermine the character and safety of our neighborhoods.

I’m grateful to Senator Borris Miles for carrying the bill in the Senate and Representative Charles “Doc” Anderson Curry from Waco for leading the charge in the House. This is good,non-partisan legislation that puts communities first—and it has statewide support.

Organizations like Scenic Houston have also stepped up, joining me to testify in favor of the bill. Together, we’re sending a clear message: enough is enough.

This fight is personal, and I remain hopeful that this is the session we finally get it done. I’ll continue pushing forward—and I’ll be sure to keep you updated.

Let’s clean up our streets and hold bad actors accountable.

#TXLege #CleanStreets #PublicSafety #CommunityFirst #DistrictK #LegislativeAdvocacy #BanditSigns

GRB Convention Center
Set for Major Redevelopment

Mayor John Whitmire and Houston First Corporation recently unveiled plans to break ground on Phase 1 of a major redevelopment project that will reshape not just the convention center, but the entire east side of downtown. The new vision includes a 700,000-square-foot secondary convention building, rooftop green space, sustainable design, and a new promenade that will better connect the area to nearby neighborhoods, venues, and Discovery Green.

This large-scale investment is expected to generate billions in economic impact over the coming decades, helping attract more major events and visitors to the city.

What’s Coming in Phase 1:

• Two new exhibition halls (150,000 sq. ft.)
• A flexible 50,000 sq. ft. indoor/outdoor event space
• The largest ballroom in Texas (up to 80,000 sq. ft.)
• Ground-level restaurant and retail space
• A natural light-filled central atrium

Construction is scheduled to begin this year, with Phase 1 expected to be completed by 2028. Future phases will include updates to the existing George R. Brown building and expanded green space, as part of a long-term plan to modernize downtown Houston’s convention district.

Houston First provided a video about the project. Click this link to view it.

New PlatTracker System Launches April 14

Starting April 14, 2025, the City of Houston is launching an upgraded PlatTracker application portal, making it easier than ever to follow and submit subdivision plat applications.

What’s New and Improved?

• A smoother, more user-friendly experience
• Better search tools to find what you need, fast
• The ability to track applications in real time
• Easy access to Planning Commission agendas, meeting minutes, and downloadable data
• A new step-by-step user guide to help you navigate the system

If you’re a land planner, surveyor, or engineer, this new system will help streamline your submissions and improve communication with Planning staff and regional agencies.

And for residents? PlatTracker makes it easier to see what development projects are being proposed near you, so you can stay informed and engaged with what’s happening in your area.

Heads Up for Current Users

If you’ve already submitted something in the old system, you may need to re-register or re-submit your draft in the new portal. Be sure to check out the full announcement so you’re up to date.

📍 Visit PlatTracker to check out the new system and get started.

Planting Smart: How Your Trees Can Help Houston Stay Storm-Ready

After last year’s Derecho and Hurricane Beryl, it became clear that trees growing too close to overhead power lines can make storm recovery even harder. That’s why the Planning and Development Department, in collaboration with HPARD Urban Forestry and CenterPoint Energy, updated and clarified parts of the City’s Tree and Shrub Ordinance—originally adopted over 25 years ago to help protect Houston’s green canopy.

Here’s what’s new and important for you to know:

🌳 Tree placement matters. The updated ordinance defines “under power lines” as within 20 feet from the center of overhead utility lines.

🌱 Not all trees are created equal. New recommended trees for planting under power lines include:

• Little Gem Magnolia
• American Holly
• Yaupon Holly
• Possumhaw Holly

🚫 What not to plant: Crape Myrtle and Texas Pistache may be popular, but they’re not native to Houston and are not recommended under power lines.

By planting the right trees in the right places, you’re helping to reduce power outages and keeping our city safer during storms.

📖 Want to learn more?

Check out CenterPoint’s Right Tree, Right Place Guide for smart planting tips!

HPD Spring Hiring Expo

📅 Saturday, April 12, 2025

⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

📍 HPD Training Academy

17000 Aldine Westfield Rd., Houston, TX

🔍 What to Expect:

• Meet with recruiters
• Learn about career paths within HPD
• Take a scheduled tour of the academy at 10:30 AM or 12:30 PM
• Expedited application process available by appointment

Whether you’re ready to apply or just exploring your options, this is a great opportunity to ask questions, meet officers, and see where your future could begin.

✅ Visit www.hpdcareer.com or call 713.208.1300 for more information or to schedule your appointment.

Join Us for the Police Eggstravaganza
at Marian Park!

📅 Saturday, April 12, 2025

⏰ 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

📍 Marian Park – 11000 S. Gessner Rd., Houston, TX 77071

This FREE community event is packed with family fun, games, and—of course—a classic egg hunt for the kids! It’s a great way to meet your local officers, enjoy the outdoors, and celebrate the season with your neighbors.

Bring the whole family and hop into the fun!

Questions?

Reach out to Officer Justin Rivera at [email protected]rg

Career Opportunities

Position: Construction Manager

Location: Zip Code 77021

Pay: $28.20 – $30/hr (based on experience)

🌟 Why LaneStaffing? Houston’s job market continues to show strong growth, and the construction industry is one of the key drivers! 🏗️ At LaneStaffing, we’re not just helping job seekers find their next role – we’re also a trusted resource for businesses looking to build their teams with top talent! 🤝

What we’re looking for:

• High School diploma or GED (Bachelor’s in Engineering, Construction Management preferred)
• 5 years of construction inspection experience in Facilities Management
• OSHA 10-Hour required (OSHA 30-Hour preferred)
• Ability to read blueprints and facility drawings
• Valid Texas Driver’s License

💻 Applicants Can Apply Now:

Visit us at lanestaff.com or email your resume to [email protected]

📞 Call us at: 713-522-0000

Rain Barrel Sale – Order by May 14!

Save water and money by ordering your very own rain barrel! It’s an easy, eco-friendly way to keep your lawn and garden hydrated while reducing runoff and conserving resources.

🛒 Order online: https://bit.ly/4bgNZyj

🗓️ Order deadline: May 14, 2025 at 11:00 PM

📍 Pick-up date: May 24, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Houston Permitting Center – 1002 Washington Ave

Quantities are limited—don’t miss out!

#RainBarrelSale #WaterConservation #HoustonPermittingCenter #EcofriendlyGardening