Dear District K Friends:

Happy New Year! 🎉

2025 is here, and it’s the perfect time to hit refresh! Whether you’re setting big goals or simply clearing out some clutter, let’s make this year all about new beginnings and fresh opportunities.

This month, we’re rolling up our sleeves with recycling and shredding events to help you clear out for a fresh start. Let’s kick off the year with a cleaner, greener District K while making room for all the great things ahead!

Let’s take this opportunity to start strong—clean spaces, clear minds, and a renewed focus on what matters most. Whether it’s tackling your to-do list or dreaming big for the year ahead, know that every step forward counts. Together, we’ll make 2025 a year to remember!

Cheers to a fantastic year ahead!

In Service

Martha
 

Celebrating Trailblazers
Thank you DefenderNetwork.comfor including me in the Defender’s ONES to WATCH in 2025 list. I’m inspired by the amazing leaders on this list and grateful to be counted among them. Here’s to another year of making a difference, together!

#OnesToWatch2025 #Leaders #Trailblazers

Edison Cultural Arts Center Beam Signing
A property that sat abandoned and neglected for over 20 years in our district is now on its way to becoming a true symbol of hope and opportunity.

The beam signing ceremony marked an exciting milestone in this transformation, showcasing the power of our shared vision and the dedication of our community to make progress.

This project is a shining example of teamwork—uniting the City of Houston, Fort Bend County, Missouri City, our state and federal partners, and many incredible foundations and arts organizations. Once completed, the Edison Cultural Arts Center will be a model for revitalization across the nation.

Huge shoutout to Troy and Charity Carter for their inspiring vision and relentless work to make this happen. Let’s keep pushing forward together!

#DistrictK #CommunityRevitalization #EdisonCulturalCenter #ProgressInAction #FortBendHouston #BlightToBright
 

Houston Water Bills Update:
Making Progress Together
We heard your concerns, and since the new Water Bill Improvement Plan was approved, we’ve been taking action to address issues and enhance your water billing experience. From tackling issues with remote read devices to offering more customer support options, Public Works has been working hard to ensure a smoother, more reliable service for everyone. Here’s what’s been accomplished and what’s ahead:

  • 125,000 Remote Read Devices (RRDs): All non-functioning RRDs have been addressed ahead of schedule! While 15,000 couldn’t be replaced due to inaccessibility, crews are working directly with property owners to resolve these issues. Of the 75,000 accounts with replaced devices, 30,000 will transition from set usage to actual usage in the first quarter 2025.
  • Customer Support You Can Count On: Since April, over 800 customers have taken advantage of in-person and virtual appointments to resolve water bill issues. Impressively, 74% of these concerns were resolved the same day!
  • Looking Ahead: The next phase includes addressing 273,000 accounts requiring future RRD replacements. At the same time, our teams are dedicated to improving service standards and ensuring accuracy for all customers.
  • Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR): As part of the City’s commitment to clean, safe water, over 1,400 single-family residential service lines have been verified since November. You can read more about how EPA’s requirements are being met here: bit.ly/HouLCRR.

Let’s start 2025 with a focus on making your water experience seamless and efficient. For tips on tracking your water usage and avoiding surprises on your bill, sign up for water usage alerts at www.HoustonWater.org.

Stay informed, stay connected, and let’s keep Houston thriving!

#HouPublicWorks #DistrictKWaterBills
 

Community Meeting Recap: Improving Electric Service in District K
Reliable electricity is key to keeping our homes, businesses, and daily lives running smoothly. On Wednesday, January 8, we came together with CenterPoint Energy for an important community meeting to discuss the progress they’re making to improve service reliability and resilience in our area.

It was a great opportunity for residents to learn about the efforts being made to enhance electric service, ask questions, and share feedback. We’re committed to making sure our community stays powered up and ready for the future!

Here are some of the questions Mayor Pro Tem Castex-Tatum was able to get responses to.

a.  QUESTION: Westbury community is experiencing continuous power outages along Kingfisher Drive (5100 block), zip code 77035. How soon can the intermittent outages be resolved?

    i.    ANSWER: Provide address to CPE Jason Fabre to resolve

b.  QUESTION: Almeda Plaza community was without power 11 days during Hurricane Beryl. Does this community need new equipment?    

i.   ANSWER: Provide addresses to CPE to follow up. Ensure the issued was not with a weatherhead or on the fault of the customer (resident). If there are three outages within a 90 day period, CPE automatically should take action?

c.  QUESTION: When trees need trimming who do residents contact?     

i.    ANSWER: CenterPoint Energy at 713-207-2222 or 800-332-7143.

d.  QUESTION: When trees are being cut in the backyards who is responsible for hauling the tree debris?

            i.  ANSWER: If reactive action due to storm, it is the homeowner’s responsibility. If due to tree-trimming cycle it is CPE’s responsibility.

These are just a few of the topics CPE covered i

Thanks to everyone who joined us and helped make the conversation so productive. Stay tuned for more updates!
 

Join Us for a Public Information Session
We’re inviting YOU to another opportunity to get involved and make your voice heard! This time, we’ll be revisiting the Disparity Study, and we want you to be part of the conversation.

Come out, ask questions, share your thoughts, and help us ensure we’re on the right track for our community. It’s your chance to stay informed, learn more, and be part of the change.

Check out the details above, and we can’t wait to see you there! Let’s keep building a stronger, more inclusive future together.

#YourVoiceMatters #InclusiveHouston #DisparityStudy #BuildingTogether
 

Vote for Walker Library
Walker Library is in the running for the ULI People’s Choice Award, and we need YOUR support to win! 🎉

This is your chance to help shine a spotlight on the amazing work libraries do to educate, connect, and inspire our community. Every vote counts, and it only takes a minute to make a big impact!

🗓️ Deadline: January 17, 2025

📲 Vote here: Vote for Walker Library

Let’s show everyone why Walker Library is a treasure in our community. Vote today, and spread the word!

#WalkerLibrary #PeoplesChoice #VoteNow
 

Simon Minchen Park Celebration
We’re excited to invite you to the Simon Minchen Park Community Celebration! Come join your neighbors and friends as we celebrate the latest improvements to your neighborhood park.

📅 Saturday, January 18, 2025

⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

📍 4900 W. Fuqua St., Houston, TX 77045

✨ What to Expect:

  • FREE Food 🍔🌭
  • Fun Activities 🎉
  • Live Music 🎶

Spanish interpretation services will be available.

🔗 To RSVP and ensure your spot, please visit:

bit.ly/SimonMinchenEvent  or simply scan the QR code on the flyer above!

New Trail Coming Soon!

Exciting news for outdoor lovers! A new hike-and-bike trail will soon connect Simon Minchen Park to the Sims Bayou Greenway, thanks to funding from TIRZ 9. This 0.25-mile trail will start at Simon Minchen Park’s walking loop, head north to Dalmatian Drive (upgraded to concrete), and link to the Sims Bayou Greenway.

Once completed, this connection will open access to a 20-mile trail system stretching from Milby Park in southeast Houston to Hillcroft Avenue in southwest Houston.

We can’t wait to see you there! Let’s enjoy food, fun, and community as we celebrate our beautiful park.

#DistrictKParks #CommunityFun
 

City of Houston Opens 22 Christmas Tree Recycling Locations
The City of Houston’s Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) invites residents to recycle their live Christmas trees and make this holiday season a little greener. Recycling your tree helps reduce landfill waste while producing mulch and other valuable landscaping materials.

Ongoing through Friday, January 24, 2025, SWMD is offering 22 convenient tree recycling drop-off locations across Houston. Residents can also recycle live trees through the city’s curbside tree waste collection program. Let’s work together for a sustainable holiday season!

To prepare a tree for recycling:

  • Remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, wire, nails, and stands.
  • Ensure the tree is not flocked, painted, or artificial, as these cannot be recycled. 

Tree Recycling Times and Locations
 

Recycle Your Holiday Lights at South Post Oak Recycling Center
It’s not too late to recycle those holiday lights and keep them out of the landfill! Instead of tossing your old lights in the trash, bring them to the South Post Oak Recycling Center (14600 S Post Oak, 77045) and recycle them the right way.

Holiday lights are made of various materials like glass, metal, and plastic, which can all be recycled. Many of the elements in these lights don’t break down in landfills, so recycling is a much better option for our environment.

🕒 Recycle Now Through January 2025

• Monday – Friday: 8 AM – 5 PM

• Saturday: Until 2 PM

We also invite civic clubs, HOAs, and community groups to get involved! Let’s do our part to protect the planet 🌟.

For more details, call 713.433.9944 or visit SouthPostOakRecycling.com. Need help getting your lights there? Call us, and we’ll work something out!

#DistrictK #SouthPostOakRecycling 💚
 

Prepare for Free Community Shred Day
It’s time to clear the clutter and protect your privacy! Join us for Free Community Shred Day, hosted by Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum.

📅 When: Saturday, January 25, 2025

⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

📍 Where: Westbury United Methodist Church

5200 Willowbend Blvd., Houston, TX 77096

📅 Save the Date – Fort Bend County Event: Saturday, February 1, 2025

⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

📍 Where: Ridgemont Community Center

5107 Ridgecreek Circle, Houston, TX 77053

Bring all your paper documents—old bills, receipts, or anything with sensitive information—for secure shredding. (Paper only, please!)

Start gathering your stacks now, and let’s make room for a fresh start in 2025! We can’t wait to see you there!

#ShredDay #DistrictK #CommunityEvent
 

Welcome Our New Captains To District K
We’re excited to introduce the new Captains leading the charge at District K’s command stations!

🚔 Captain Lee Donovan is now at the helm of the South Gessner Command Station, bringing years of experience and a commitment to community safety.

🚔 Captain James Dale is leading the Southwest Command Station, ready to work alongside residents to ensure a safer, stronger neighborhood.

These Captains are dedicated to fostering relationships and tackling the unique needs of our communities. Let’s give them a warm District K welcome as they step into these vital roles!
 

Exciting Updates for Chasewood Residents
We’ve got some great news for the Chasewood community! Starting later this month, crews will begin replacing sidewalks, driveways, and wheelchair ramps along the north side of Chasewood Drive, stretching from Chasemont Drive to Steeple Chase Road.

These improvements are designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall look of your neighborhood. The work is expected to wrap up in the first quarter of 2025, so you won’t have to wait long to enjoy the upgrades.

Thank you for your patience as we work to make Chasewood an even better place to live!

Upcoming Events at Your
District K Public Libraries
There are some great events lined up at our District K public libraries!

📚 Local Reading with Jennifer Mathieu

Join us for a special local reading by Jennifer Mathieu, author of The Faculty Lounge. Come hear about her latest work and engage in a lively discussion about the book. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with a talented local author!

🗣️ AARP Presents: Helpful Information for Seniors

If you’re a senior, soon-to-be senior, caregiver, or a friend, don’t miss these free presentations that offer helpful tips and resources to navigate this exciting stage of life with confidence and peace of mind.

These events are designed to empower, inform, and inspire you! Check your local library for dates and times, and be sure to mark your calendars!

Let’s make the most of these opportunities for learning, growth, and connection! 📚✨

January HPL Events – District K

#DistrictK #LibraryEvents #AARPSupport #LocalAuthors #SeniorSupport

Lane Staffing
As we begin the new year, there are fantastic job opportunities available right here in our community. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, make a fresh start, or find your next great role, now is the perfect time to explore what’s out there.

Check out these opportunities and share them with your network—let’s help each other grow and succeed in 2025!

👩🏾‍💻 Organizational Development Analyst

💰 Pay: $35/hr

📍 Location: 77023

📋 Duties: Partner with managers, analyze data using MS Power BI, and lead training interventions to support employee engagement.

📚 Requirements: Bachelor’s in Business/Public Administration + 3 years of experience. Canva/Articulate 360 & public sector experience preferred.

👷🏾‍♂️ Senior Fixed Asset Specialist

💰 Pay: $30/hr

📍 Location: 77002

📋 Duties: Manage IT equipment, conduct audits, and ensure smooth operations.

📚 Requirements: Bachelor’s in Materials Management + 1 year of inventory control experience. Proficiency in ServiceNow & MS Office required.

🖊️ Contract Administrator

💰 Pay: $29/hr

📍 Location: 77054

📋 Duties: Oversee bids, resolve disputes, and manage contracts.

📚 Requirements: Bachelor’s in Public/Business Administration + 2 years of contract compliance experience.

🔨 General Laborer with Concrete Experience

💰 Pay: $18-$20 DOE

📍 Location: 77092

📋 Duties: Apply waterproofing, mix concrete, install rebar, operate tools, and follow safety protocols.

📚 Requirements: OSHA 10 or 30 certified + construction experience.

⚡ Licensed Journeyman Electrician

💰 Pay: $20-$23/hr

📍 Location: Houston, TX

🗓 Hours: Mon-Thurs, 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM

📋 Duties: Install and maintain electrical systems, respond to emergencies, and ensure safety compliance.

📚 Requirements: Electrical certificate + 5 years of experience.

🎯 Operations Associate

💼 Pay: $21.01 – $23.50/hr

📚 Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree + strong organizational skills

📋 Duties: Support daily operations, inventory management, and streamline processes

👩🏾‍💻 Human Resources Coordinator

📍 Location: 77226 (South Houston)

💼 Pay: $45,000 – $65,000/year

📝 Requirements: HR experience + proficiency in systems like Workday, ADP, etc.

💡 Duties: Workforce planning, performance management, and recruitment

🌟 Landscaping Roles

📍 Location: 77226 (South Houston)

🛠️ Field Service Technician

💼 Pay: $15.00 – $17.00/hr

💪🏾 Requirements: High attention to detail + outdoor work experience

🌱 Duties: Lawn & garden maintenance, safety compliance, and job site organization

👷🏾‍♂️ Foreman: $17.00 – $20.00/hr

🌳 Project Manager: $40,000 – $60,000/year

🌱 Duties: Overseeing crews, maintaining properties, and ensuring safety standards

Heavy Equipment Operator – $20/hour

📍 Location: 77023 (South Houston)

🗓 Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 40 hours/week

Job Duties:

  • Operate heavy equipment to transport materials, refuse, and tools to/from work sites
  • Perform manual tasks like lawn care, concrete/asphalt pouring, and furniture moving
  • Inspect and maintain vehicles, tools, and equipment
  • Follow safety procedures and report issues as needed

Requirements:

  • Six months of experience in operating plant or automotive equipment

• Valid Class A or B CDL (depending on equipment)

Don’t miss out on these great opportunities to kickstart your career in 2025! If you or someone you know is looking for the next step, take action today and help spread the word. Let’s make this year one of growth and success for our community!
 

Take Charge of Your Health
Join us for a free Health and Wellness Fair at Harris Health Martin Luther King Jr. Health Center on Saturday, Jan. 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

📋 Don’t miss your chance to schedule:

  • Free cervical cancer screenings
  • HPV screenings
  • Mammograms

💡 Take a proactive step for your health—call 281-454-0913 today to secure your spot!

This is your opportunity to prioritize your well-being and connect with valuable resources in our community. We look forward to seeing you there!