| Dear District K Friends: As we step into the warmth of June, let’s also embrace the meaning behind this special month—a time for reflection, celebration, and connection. June is National Men’s Mental Health Month, reminding us of the importance of emotional well-being, especially for the men and boys in our lives. Mental health matters, and breaking the stigma around asking for help is key to building stronger families and communities. Let’s keep encouraging open conversations, support, and healing. It’s also Pride Month, a time to celebrate love, identity, and the vibrant contributions of our LGBTQ+ community. Pride is about visibility, acceptance, and honoring the ongoing fight for equality. I stand in support of a Houston where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued. And of course, we celebrate Juneteenth—a powerful tribute to freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Whether you’re attending a community event, gathering with family, or reflecting on our shared history, Juneteenth is a reminder of how far we’ve come and the work that still lies ahead. I’m proud of our District K community and the way we continue to show up for one another with compassion, purpose, and unity. Let’s keep that spirit going, all summer long. In Service Martha |
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Budget Breakdown: What You Need to Know About Houston’s FY 2026 Plan |
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| The City of Houston’s $7 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2026 is officially approved. Last week, City Council passed the operating budget in a 14–3 vote. And while no budget is ever perfect—especially in a city where needs often outpace resources—it’s our responsibility to govern and keep Houston moving forward. A few highlights from the FY26 budget: - Reduced draw from savings thanks to higher-than-expected property tax revenue
- Millions in savings through budget cuts, department consolidations, and more strategic procurement
- Pay increases: 10% for police, 3% for fire, and 3.5% for municipal employees
- $490 million dedicated to street and drainage work
- Investments in public health, parks, and public safety
Several council-approved amendments include: - $10 million to establish a retiree health benefits trust
- Funding for two additional animal enforcement officers to improve field response
- More legal staff to fight neighborhood nuisances and human trafficking
- Boosts for drainage improvements and short-term rental enforcement
- Reallocations to better support BARC, parks maintenance, and local projects in council districts
The final budget also maintains a healthy ending fund balance of $318.7 million—well above the city’s minimum requirement. We know this budget won’t solve every problem overnight, but it’s a step toward a stronger, more sustainable future. As always, I’ll continue advocating for transparency, equity, and fiscal responsibility in every decision we make. In April, Council Member Sallie Alcorn launched the YOUR TWO CENTS budget survey to give Houstonians a voice in the budgeting process. The survey, which remained open through May 30, asked residents to weigh in on priorities for city spending—including public safety, infrastructure, and community programs. More than 1,200 people participated, including 89 residents from District K. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share your input—it’s a vital part of building a budget that reflects the needs of our neighborhoods. |
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| This year’s YOUR TWO CENTS survey was new and improved thanks to support from Rice University’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research, which helped enhance the survey design and analysis. Click this link for the full report: Read their findings here. |
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Hurricane Season Is Here—Are You Prepared? |
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| As we head into hurricane season, now is the time to get prepared—and the City of Houston’s updated Disaster Preparedness Guide is a great place to start. This free, easy-to-use guide is available in six languages and covers everything you need to know to plan for emergencies. You can download it from the Office of Emergency Management right here. While you’re at it, be sure to sign up for Alert Houston—our city’s official emergency alert system. It delivers real-time updates about weather threats, emergency instructions, and important safety info straight to your phone or email. Let’s stay ready and keep each other safe, District K! #HurricaneSeason #AlertHouston #StayReady #DistrictKPrepared |
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You’re Invited: Virtual Meetings on Disaster Recovery Funding |
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| In the wake of last year’s major storms—the May 16–17 windstorm and Hurricane Beryl (July 5–9)—Houston is taking important steps to rebuild stronger. The City of Houston Housing and Community Development Department will host two Virtual Community Meetings to share plans for recovery funding and hear directly from residents. Your voice matters—join the conversation and help shape Houston’s future. See the flyer above for meeting dates and details. 🗓 Meeting #1
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM 🗓 Meeting #2
Thursday, June 12, 2025
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
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It’s Official: Our Bandit Sign Bill is Now Law |
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| With the 89th Legislative Session now complete, I’m thrilled to share some great news—HB 3611, the bandit sign billI’ve championed for the past six years, has officially been signed into law by the Governor! 🎉 This is a big win for our neighborhoods and a major step forward in keeping our communities clean and safe from illegal signage. A heartfelt thank you to Senator Borris L. Miles for carrying the bill in the Senate, and to StateRepresentative Pat Curry of Waco for leading the charge in the House. I’ll be sharing more soon about the long and complex journey to getting a bill passed—but for now, I’m just grateful and proud. Huge shoutout to the City of Houston Government Relations Team, especially Jeri Brooks and Michael Warner, for their hard work and persistence. We did it! #HB3611 #BanditSignBill #LegislativeWin #Teamwork #DistrictK #CleanNeighborhoods |
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Let’s Talk About Water Bills |
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| If your water bill seems higher than usual, you’re not alone—and there is something you can do about it. Every case is different, so it’s important to start by reporting the issue to Houston 3-1-1 at (713) 837-0311. Once you call, you’ll receive a service request number that kicks off an investigation. After that, feel free to send that number along with a copy of your most recent bill to our office at [email protected] so we can help monitor the progress. Important tips to keep in mind: - A 3-1-1 report is required each time the issue happens.
- The City’s Consumption Awareness Program can alert you to unusual water usage before you get your bill. Sign up here.
- You can also estimate your bill to stay ahead of surprises.
In some cases, a leak may be to blame. If the leak is on your side of the meter, you may qualify for a one-time leak adjustment (available once a year). Just keep paying your bill while your request is being reviewed. If your bill is more than 200% higher than usual and the reason is unclear, you can apply for an unusually large bill adjustment—again, once per year and payments should continue during the review process. Leaks aren’t always obvious. Look for signs like an extra-green patch of grass or a toilet that runs in a little-used bathroom. The City’s water website has great tips for spotting leaks and conserving water. Still have questions? Give us a call at (832) 393-3016 or email [email protected] —we’re here to help. |
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Public Hearing Scheduled: Proposed Replat at Simsbrook & Stancliff |
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| The City of Houston’s Planning and Development Department has received an application to replat part of the Thomas Estate Sec 1 subdivision, located at the southwest intersection of Simsbrook Drive and Stancliff Street. The proposal would create 26 single-family residential lots and two reserves on the site. A public hearing has been scheduled to review this replat application: 📅 Thursday, June 12, 2025 🕝 2:30 PM 📍 City Hall Annex, 900 Bagby St., City Council Chamber – Public Level This application does not request any variances. Under state law, the Planning Commission is required to approve replat applications that meet all applicable regulations under Chapter 42 of the City’s Code of Ordinances. Community members can attend the hearing and share comments in person or email speakercomments.pc@houstontx.gov at least 24 hours in advance to have comments added to the meeting record. Click here to read the full notice and details For questions, contact the applicant Tom Duecker, Tri-Tech Engineering at (713) 667-0800 or the City Planner: Aracely Rodriguez – Aracely.Rodriguez@houstontx.gov | (832) 393-6574 #DistrictK #PlanningUpdate #ThomasEstate #CommunityDevelopment #HoustonPlanning |
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Engage Houston Is Back Online |
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| Good news—the Engage Houston website is back up and running! If you’ve been waiting to catch up on city projects, community updates, or ways to get involved, now’s the time. Visit the site to stay informed and share your feedback on what’s happening across Houston. 🔗 Check it out here and stay connected! #EngageHouston #DistrictK #StayInformed #CommunityUpdates |
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Stay Connected
with the New HTV Mobile App |
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| We’ve got a new way to keep you in the know — HTV (Houston Television) just launched a brand-new mobile app! Now you can watch City Council meetings, press conferences, community events, and city programming anytime, anywhere—right from your phone or tablet. It’s a convenient way to stay informed, engaged, and connected to what’s happening across Houston and right here in District K. Download the HTV app today from the App Store or Google Play. Just search “HTV Houston.” #HTVHouston #StayConnected #DistrictK #CityOfHouston #HTVApp |
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Splash Into Summer—District K Pools Are Open! |
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| The wait is over—our summer pool schedule is here! Whether you’re looking to beat the heat, enjoy family time, or just float your cares away, we’ve got you covered. Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Closed Mondays Grab your swimsuit, bring a towel, and we’ll see you at the pool! #DistrictK #SummerFun #HoustonParks #CoolOffInDistrictK #CommunityPools |
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Houston First Juneteenth Schedule |
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| Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of music, art, culture, and community as we honor the legacy of Juneteenth and celebrate Black excellence! Juneteenth Culture Fest 2025 kicks off Friday, June 13 at Miller Outdoor Theatre and continues June 14–15 at Avenida Houston and Discovery Green in downtown Houston. 🎶 Friday at Miller Outdoor Theatre (8:30 PM) Enjoy a soul-stirring night of gospel, R&B, and neo-soul with performances by LeToya Luckett, Ruben Studdard, Madicin, and more—plus a moving tribute to music legends like Roberta Flack and Luther Vandross. 🎤 Saturday & Sunday at Avenida Houston & Discovery Green (4–9 PM) Celebrate all weekend with live performances, DJs, dance, art, food trucks, giveaways, and over 100 Black-owned vendors at BLCK Market! Sunday features a special Father’s Day edition of festivities and performances. |
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| It’s free, family-friendly, and open to the public—so grab your friends, support local artists, and experience the power of culture and community. Full schedule and details at AvenidaHouston.com. |
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Edison Lofts Update: From Blight to Bright Future in Fort Bend Houston |
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| Exciting progress continues at the Edison Cultural Arts Center, where a once-abandoned shopping center is being reimagined into a vibrant cultural and community hub. Located at 7100 West Fuqua Drive, the former Kroger/Willowridge site sat largely unused for over 20 years. Thanks to the Edison Arts Foundation and support from TIRZ 25 (Hiram Clarke/Fort Bend Redevelopment Authority), this 12.5-acre site is being transformed into a space that celebrates creativity, youth, and economic opportunity. |
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| Phase II is now 80% complete! This phase includes: - A new Afterschool Youth Center
- The beautiful Festival Park green space
- Renovated retail exteriors
It’s all on track to wrap up by late July to early August 2025. Festival Park alone is expected to draw more than 20,000 visitors a year with outdoor concerts, cultural festivals, and family events. |
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| Phase II is now 80% complete! This phase includes: - A new Afterschool Youth Center
- The beautiful Festival Park green space
- Renovated retail exteriors
It’s all on track to wrap up by late July to early August 2025. Festival Park alone is expected to draw more than 20,000 visitors a year with outdoor concerts, cultural festivals, and family events. Coming Up Next: Phase III will focus on interior construction—finishing the Larry V. Green Main Stage Theatre, dance studios, event space, black box theater, and a computer library. Final completion is expected by early 2026. Once finished, the Edison campus will offer: ✅ Over 200 new jobs ✅ Space for 22 minority-owned businesses ✅ A health clinic, restaurants, boutiques & more At its heart, this project is about reclaiming space for community pride and opportunity. We’re proud to support this vision and can’t wait to welcome you to the grand opening of this inspiring new destination. Stay tuned—there’s more to come! |
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Donald Perkins Neighborhood Trail is Now Open |
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| We’re proud to announce the official opening of the Donald Perkins Neighborhood Trail — a beautiful new space for walking, relaxing, and connecting with nature in the heart of Westbury. We celebrated this meaningful addition to our community with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony, joined by the family and friends of Donald Perkins. Donald was known for his deep love of Houston’s trails—he seemed to know every one of them. Naming a trail in his honor couldn’t be more fitting. Thank you to everyone who helped make this project a reality. With every new trail and green space, we’re creating a healthier, more connected District K—one step at a time. #DistrictK #DonaldPerkinsTrail #NeighborhoodPride #HoustonParks #WillowWaterhole #CommunityTrail |
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New Art Alert: Meet the Great Blue Heron at Willow Waterhole |
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| The Willow Waterhole continues to shine as one of our community’s true gems—offering not just vital flood control, but also a beautiful mix of nature, art, and public space we can all enjoy. 🌿💙 Now there’s something new to see: a striking 12-foot Blue Heron sculpture by Texas artist Jeffie Brewer, perched proudly at the scenic lookout point at Heron Lake. This vivid blue sculpture isn’t just a photo-worthy moment—it’s a symbol of our commitment to preserving green space, protecting wildlife, and celebrating the natural beauty that makes District K so special. Next time you’re out on the trail, make a stop, snap a pic, and enjoy the view. 📍 Heron Lake at Willow Waterhole 📸 Tag your photos: #WillowWaterhole #DistrictK |
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Let’s Talk Haviland Park
We Want to Hear From You |
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| We’re excited to invite you to two special events focused on the future of Haviland Park—and we want your voice in the conversation! Haviland Park is part of Let’s Play Houston, a citywide effort led by Mayor John Whitmire, the Houston Parks Board, and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department. This initiative is bringing new life to 25 neighborhood parks through community input, corporate partnerships, and long-term investment. Your feedback will help shape a park that reflects the needs and dreams of this neighborhood. 🌳 Haviland Park Walk & TalkSaturday, June 14 | 9:00 – 10:30 AM Haviland Park – 11600 Haviland St. Join us for a casual walk through the park with the project team. We’ll talk about what’s working, what could be better, and your vision for the future. Coffee and breakfast pastries provided—just bring yourself and a neighbor! No RSVP needed. 🗣️ Community Listening SessionTuesday, June 24 | 6:00 PM One Church @ Bethel’s Family – 12660 Sandpiper Dr. Come out for a fun and informative evening! We’ll share updates about the park and want to hear your ideas. Dinner starts at 6:00 PM | Presentation begins at 6:30 PM What to expect: ✔️ Free dinner & refreshments ✔️ Info on the Let’s Play Houston initiative ✔️ Gift card giveaways to local businesses ✔️ Community survey ✔️ Spanish interpretation available Special thanks to Pastor Wilson August and One Church @ Bethel’s Family for hosting, and to our community partners for helping spread the word. ✅ Click here to RSVP and forward this invite to friends and neighbors! |
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Workforce Development & Job Symposium |
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| Looking for your next opportunity or wanting to sharpen your professional skills? Don’t miss the Workforce Development Symposium & Job Fair hosted by the Missouri City Juneteenth Celebration Foundation! 🗓 Thursday, June 20, 2025
🕚 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 HCC Missouri City Campus
1600 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, TX Connect with employers, explore job opportunities, and gain insight from workforce development experts—all in one place. Open to the public and free to attend! #Juneteenth2025 #WorkforceDevelopment #JobFair #MissouriCity #CareerOpportunities |
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A Conversation on Property Laws & Deed Restrictions |
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| Join Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum for an important conversation on how recent legislative updates impact property laws and deed restrictions in our communities. 📅 Saturday, June 21, 2025
🕘 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍 Harold L. Preston Southwest Police Station – Community Room
13097 Nitida St., Houston, TX 77045 Mayor Pro Tem Castex-Tatum is proud to partner with Suzy Rice of Rice & Rice Law Firm for this informative session. MPAC members, civic club presidents, TIRZ and management district leaders—your voices are needed! Come ready to learn, ask questions, and stay informed. More details to come—but for now, mark your calendars! Let us know if you’re coming by clicking this link: bit.ly/PostLegislativeRSVP. #DistrictK #StayInformed #CommunityMatters #DeedRestrictions #PropertyLaws #PostLegislativeUpdate |
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Celebrate International Day of Yoga in District K |
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| 🧘🏾♀️ Experience Peace. Get Inspired. Join us for a free, family-friendly evening of mindfulness and movement on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the beautiful Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston (12379 Riceville School Rd.). ✨ Schedule of Events: - 4:00 – 6:00 PM – Museum Open House
- 6:00 – 6:30 PM – Cultural Performances
- 6:30 PM – Community Yoga Session
- 8:00 PM – Program Ends
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just curious to try, all are welcome! This is a chance to relax, recharge, and celebrate unity through yoga. Bring a yoga mat and a friend! For more information call (832) 850-3464 | or send an email [email protected] Let’s come together in peace and purpose—right here in District K! |
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You’re Invited: Town Hall with
Constable James “Smokie” Phillips |
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| Come out and meet your newly elected Harris County Precinct 7 Constable James “Smokie” Phillips and his command staff at a special community town hall meeting! 🗓 Monday, July 14, 2025
🕖 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Hiram Clarke Multi-Service Center
3810 W. Fuqua St., Houston, TX 77045 This is your chance to hear updates, ask questions, and connect with local law enforcement. Food and drinks will be provided, and the event is free and open to the public. Let’s work together to keep our community informed and engaged—see you there! #Precinct7 #ConstablePhillips #DistrictK #CommunityTownHall #StayConnected |
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Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation: Basketball Camp & Backpack Giveaway! |
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| The Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation is back with two exciting events to support and uplift our youth and families—don’t miss out! 🏀 Pro Basketball Camp
Thursday, July 25 | 9 AM – 12 PM
📍 The Zone – 10371 Stella Link Rd., Houston, TX 77025 Open to boys & girls in 1st–8th grade, this free camp is a great chance to learn from the pros and sharpen your game! Questions? Email: [email protected] 🎒 5th Annual Drive-Thru Backpack Giveaway
Friday, July 26 | 10 AM – 12 PM
📍 Marian Park – 11000 S. Gessner Rd., Houston, TX 77071 Families can pick up free school supplies, enjoy haircuts, groceries, prizes, food, and more—while supplies last! Let’s get our kids geared up and ready to thrive this school year! Visit jarredvanderbiltfoundation.org for more details. #DistrictK #JarredVanderbiltFoundation #BackToSchool #YouthEmpowerment #BasketballCamp #CommunitySupport |
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Free Summer Meals
for Kids in Fort Bend ISD |
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| This summer, Fort Bend ISD is doing more than serving meals—they’re supporting families and strengthening our community. Willowridge High School and Ridgemont ELC, right here in District K, are proud sites for the SUN Summer Meals Program, offering FREE breakfast and lunch for all children 18 and under (and for students with disabilities up to age 21). ✅ No sign-up required ✅ Meals must be eaten on-site ✅ Open to all kids—just show up and enjoy! Let’s help spread the word so no child goes hungry this summer. Learn more: FortBendISD.com/ChildNutrition #DistrictK #SummerMeals #NourishToFlourish #FBISDChildNutrition #HealthyKidsHealthyCommunity |
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Summer Fun & Learning with HPL in District K! |
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| The Houston Public Library has something for everyone this summer—check out what’s happening in District K! Color Our World: Summer Reading Program June 1 – July 31 Whether you’re a Library Little, Kid, Teen, or Adult, there’s a fun way to track your reading and win prizes this summer! Dive into new books, explore your imagination, and log your progress online. 📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer to get started! Get Lit! Free Literacy Support June 9 – July 25 Need a reading boost? The Get Lit! program offers free literacy support for Grades K–5 at four locations, including Vinson Neighborhood Library right here in District K. Let’s keep young minds engaged and growing all summer long! For full details and schedules, visit houstonlibrary.org. #DistrictKReads #HPLSummer #ColorOurWorld #GetLitHPL #SummerLearning #HoustonPublicLibrary |
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Check Out a Few Highlights
from Around the District! |
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| Take a look at some great moments from two recent events: the 5 Corners Community Bike Ride and the Westbury Community Garden’s Annual Tomato Festival.From biking to tasting homegrown tomatoes, it’s always a joy to see neighbors coming together in District K! |
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