Everyone who receives water and sewer service from the City of Houston should have received a notice in the mail regarding the 2026 rate increases. This year's rate increase will have an inflationary increase of 1.37%, and the annual increase that was adopted in June 2021 of 6.5%. The average increase for all City of Houston customers is 7.87%. You can calculate what the increase means for you using Houston Water's water rate calculator. Below is a table showing how the rate increase will impact my family as we average 7,000 gallons of monthly usage.

The water/sewer rate schedule adopted in June 2021 has paid for additional resources: to continue services, cover increased maintenance of infrastructure, reduce the number of water main breaks and sanitary sewer overflows, improve resilience against hurricanes, freezes and climate change. Furthermore, the new rates allow compliance with the Consent Decree and federal regulations, for the first time in over a decade, rather than pay penalties for violations caused by lack of investment. The remedial measures required by the Consent Decree over a 15-year period are estimated to be as high as $9 billion.

The size of the City’s water and wastewater systems is massive. The City is responsible for providing safe drinking water to 4.2 million customers, operating and maintaining 3 regional water plants, 49 groundwater plants, and operating and maintaining 7,000 miles of water lines. The City is also responsible for providing customer service to 480,000 accounts (reading and maintaining meters) and responding to and recovering from natural disasters. The wastewater system's responsibilities include treating wastewater for 2 million customers, operating and maintaining 40 plants and 376 lift stations, maintaining 6,095 miles of gravity and force mains with 134,772 manholes, rehabilitating/replacing 155 miles of wastewater line, also providing customer service and responding to disasters.

The most recent rate study, completed in June 2021 by the independent third party Carollo Engineers, was used to determine the rates necessary to fund our water system through 2026. The updated rates reflect the revenue needed to produce safe drinking water and process wastewater. These rates are not arbitrary; they reflect the actual cost of obtaining, treating, and delivering water for each customer. It is important to note that, by law, the City cannot charge customers more than the cost of operating and maintaining its water and wastewater systems.

These utility rates are necessary to afford addressing issues neglected for decades, such as reconstructing the East Water Purification Plant (EWPP), which supplies drinking water to approximately 75% of Houston-area residents. The EWPP was built originally in 1954 and needs approximately $4 billion to bring the plant up to par with where it should be. This is just one critical example of the types of projects our utility bills are funding. Mayor Whitmire and Houston Public Works have been aggressively pursuing all available state and federal funding to support the investment needed.

On Tuesday, March 17th, Council Member Flickinger and staff were honored to join the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) in welcoming a distinguished delegation from Sweden to the Clear Lake area for a roundtable discussion and networking lunch. The delegation included H.R.H. Crown Princess Victoria, Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard, Swedish Ambassador to the U.S. Urban Ahlin, U.S. Ambassador to Sweden Christine Toretti, and Consul General Anna Hammarlund Blixt. 

We extend our sincere thanks to our international guests for taking the time to visit and engage in meaningful dialogue with our local partners. The discussion, centered on “Space as an Arena,” brought together leading aerospace companies including Barrios Technology, Axiom Space, Astrolab, Vast Space, Cimarron, and Leidos, along with local, state, and federal representatives. 

We are also grateful to BAHEP and all participating industry leaders for hosting a thoughtful and collaborative conversation that highlighted the importance of global partnerships in advancing innovation and strengthening the aerospace sector. Opportunities like these continue to reinforce the Clear Lake area’s role as a global leader in space exploration and economic development. 

On Thursday, March 5th, Council Member Flickinger attended the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA) Joint Reservoir Operations Study meeting, which focused on improving flood mitigation efforts for the Lake Conroe and Lake Houston system. Representatives from the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA), the Coastal Water Authority, the City of Houston, the City of Humble, and the study consultant, Black & Veatch Engineering, were all in attendance.

The meeting highlighted ongoing concerns from downstream residents who continue to face flood risks, as well as the need to better balance water supply and flood control. A key topic of discussion was the use of pre-release strategies—lowering lake levels ahead of major storm events—to help reduce potential flooding. The study will also develop improved forecasting tools to guide reservoir operations and decision-making.

As the study progresses throughout the year, SJRA will hold two additional public meetings. A mid-year meeting will be held at Lake Conroe to review progress, and SJRA plans to present the final results of the study in The Woodlands before the end of the year.

For more information, visit LCLHJointOps.com. Even if you are unable to attend future meetings, SJRA encourages residents to submit public comments regarding the study, flood-risk locations, and past flood impacts.

On March 3rd and 4th, Council Member Flickinger and staff led a cleanup effort along Allen Genoa Rd, removing litter, debris, and fallen branches to help improve the appearance of the corridor. 

This effort reflects District E’s ongoing commitment to maintaining clean, safe, and welcoming neighborhoods, and we appreciate everyone who continues to take pride in keeping our community looking its best. 

A reminder that residents can also utilize our residential drop-off centers, which many residents might be unaware are available and free to use. These depositories can accept bulky items, yard waste, and recycling, helping to prevent trash from ending up in our ditches. You can find the full list of drop-off centers and recycling centers along with hours of operation here.

This is our final spring cleanup of 2026 and our last Median Madness event until the end of the year!

Join us on April 18th, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a community cleanup at the Trailwood Village median near Kingwood Dr. & Trailwood Village Dr.

This cleanup is being coordinated in conjunction with our Matching Grant recipients, the Trailwood Village Community Association, and is proudly supported through the Department of Neighborhoods Matching Grant Program. Together, we are bringing neighbors together to improve and beautify our community.

We are also partnering with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Houston Public Works, HPD, Trees for Kingwood, Houston Tool Bank, H‑E‑B, Chick‑fil‑A, and the Kingwood Young Men’s Service League for this event and appreciate their continued support.

Volunteers will help trim underbrush along the curb line and keep Kingwood looking its best. Please bring water, gloves, and wear closed-toe shoes. All ages are welcome; participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

If you would like to get involved please email our office at districte@houstontx.gov.

On Thursday, March 5th, the District E staff had the honor of attending the Harris County Department of Education Center for Afterschool, Summer, and Enrichment (CASE) for Kids City Connections Grantee Recognition Event. The event celebrated grantees’ hard work, dedication, and the incredible impact they are making in our communities.

Council Member Flickinger had the privilege of allocating a total of $26,500 to support outstanding organizations, including Autism Meets Faith, EZ Kids Creativity Shell, and Purpose Kids. These amazing after-school programs are investing in our children’s educational development and helping shape brighter futures across the district.

The Sand Creek HOA continues to monitor progress on the Sand Creek Village Drainage Project by Houston Public Works (HPW). The contractor is currently completing the remaining storm sewer structures and junction boxes at Highland Laurels Drive. Installation of the new waterline and wet connections has been successfully completed, and crews are actively installing the 8-inch sanitary sewer.

Although the contractor previously projected completion by April 25, 2026, the project is now estimated to be approximately two weeks behind schedule, with a revised completion date of May 8, 2026. Construction is anticipated to be completed by Friday, May 8th, weather permitting. Work hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Temporary water outages may occur during relocation, and affected residents will receive at least 24 hours’ notice. Highland Laurels remains reduced to one-way traffic, and some driveways will be replaced, which may require short-term alternative parking arrangements with advance notice provided.

For additional information, please contact the District E office at (832) 393-3008 or districte@houstontx.gov

Phase II of the Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project is well underway. This phase focuses on the Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Additional Gates Project, which will add eleven new tainter gates to the dam, increasing its controlled discharge capacity by an additional 79,000 cubic feet per second (cfs). The schedule laid out during this year's town hall will be met with the support of Congressman Dan Crenshaw, State Representative Cunningham, and Mayor Whitmire.

Importantly, the Houston City Council recently approved an interlocal agreement allowing the City to receive $20 million in funding from Harris County to support this critical flood mitigation project. This partnership reflects strong regional collaboration and a shared commitment to accelerating improvements that enhance public safety.

The engineering firm Black & Veatch has completed the 30% design plans, and field activities are progressing. Ongoing efforts include ground and bathymetric surveys, with geotechnical soil borings and environmental investigations such as wetlands assessments, endangered species studies, and archaeological site evaluations.

In parallel, the design team is actively engaging with regulatory agencies, including the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE-Galveston), and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), to discuss project details and streamline permitting review schedules. The Coastal Water Authority (CWA) met with TCEQ in December and continues to work closely with USACE-Galveston and TPWD to explore options for expediting the approval process.

The District E office remains actively involved in this project, participating in bi-weekly coordination meetings with Houston Public Works, Coastal Water Authority, Texas Division of Emergency Management, and FEMA to ensure progress continues efficiently and transparently.

To view the video from the September 2025 town hall, where CWA provided an update on the project, click here.

Crime statistics in District E show a promising downward trend, with a 36.2% decrease in violent crime in 2026 compared to the same period the previous year, and a 29.7% decrease in non-violent crime. This positive shift aligns with increased local crime prevention initiatives and strong collaboration between the District E office and the Houston Police Department’s Kingwood, Clear Lake, Eastside, and Northeast divisions.

Over $250,000 has been invested from Council Member Flickinger's Council District Service Funds in increased patrol initiatives, crime suppression activities, utility terrain vehicles, and new jet skis for Lake HPD Patrol to support crime suppression and bolster police presence across District E. These resources enhance police mobility and deterrence efforts. Residents are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant and report incidents—“See Something, Say Something”—by calling the City of Houston’s non-emergency line at (713) 884-3131 for non-life-threatening situations or 9-1-1 in emergencies.

Additionally, resident participation in the Houston Police Department’s “Positive Interaction Program” (PIP) meetings is highly encouraged. These monthly meetings provide direct engagement with local officers, updates on crime trends, and insights into how HPD is actively working to improve community safety.

Please join us in recognizing our Chief of Staff, Dustin Hodges, for five years of service to the City of Houston and District E. Dustin has provided steady leadership and dependable support that strengthens the work of our office and the services we deliver to residents.

His professionalism and commitment to public service are consistently reflected in the quality and reliability of our work. We appreciate his contributions and are pleased to acknowledge this milestone in his service.

On Thursday, March 5th, District E staff was honored to attend the 2026 Houston East End Chamber Women in Business Luncheon in celebration of Women’s History Month, alongside the Houston Pilots team. This inspiring annual event brings together women from diverse backgrounds and industries to share their stories, celebrate achievements, and foster meaningful connections across Houston’s business community.

The luncheon featured a dynamic panel of influential leaders who are making a lasting impact in their respective fields, including Julia Morales, Victoria Elizondo, Denise Hamilton, and Pattie Dale. Each panelist shared powerful insights on leadership, resilience, and innovation, leaving attendees motivated and inspired to continue breaking barriers and uplifting others in their industries. Events like this serve as a reminder of the strength, diversity, and influence of women shaping Houston’s future.

On Saturday, March 28th, Council Member Flickinger had the honor of presenting a proclamation to kick off the 5K race on the Ellington Airport tarmac. He was joined by Council Member Alcorn, District E staff, and numerous City of Houston employees who came out on a beautiful morning to support a meaningful cause. 

This year’s event expanded to include a new 10K route alongside the original 5K, offering even more opportunities for community participation. Proceeds from the race benefited Wings of Compassion – Houston Airports, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting airport employees, travelers, and the broader airport community. The organization impacts nearly 50 million travelers each year, providing critical assistance to those traveling for both everyday reasons and during times of hardship, illness, and loss. 

For those interested in getting involved, Wings of Compassion will host additional events in the coming months, including the 19th Annual Golf Tournament at Wildcat Golf Club on April 27th. 

As part of our Organization Spotlight, we are proud to recognize the Kingwood Chapter of the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) for its outstanding Ultimate Gift project. On January 10, 2026, in partnership with Trees for Kingwood, Council Member Flickinger, and dedicated volunteers, the Kingwood Chapter of YMSL organized Median Madness Round 5, clearing brush along the medians near Kingwood High School to improve visibility and enhance roadway safety. In addition to clearing the medians, volunteers planted trees in front of the high school in the following weeks, creating a lasting improvement and contributing to the long-term beautification of the area.

The group has continued its efforts through landscaping enhancements at the entrance of the school, further beautifying the area and fostering a safer, more inviting community. This project exemplifies service, leadership, and lasting community impact, and we are proud to highlight the Kingwood Chapter of YMSL through this Organization Spotlight.

On Monday, March 23rd, Council Member Flickinger and staff attended a Passover Seder for Multifaith and Community Leaders hosted at Congregation Emanu El. Organized in partnership with many organizations, this special event provided an opportunity to share the rich traditions and deep meaning of the Passover Seder with the broader community. Attendees learned about the historical journey of the Jewish people from slavery to freedom, a story that continues to inspire values of perseverance, faith, and liberty. The event emphasized the importance of building understanding across different faiths and cultures, strengthening the bonds within the Greater Houston community.

Special thanks to the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, Consulate General to Israel for the Southwest, Holocaust Museum Houston, AJC Houston, ADL, Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Houston and Congregation Emanu El for hosting such a meaningful and educational celebration. 

On Thursday, March 26th, Council Member Flickinger was invited to attend the San Jacinto College Promise Mixer, an evening focused on connection, impact, and expanding opportunities for students across the region. The event also marked the 30th Anniversary of the San Jacinto College Foundation and highlighted the ambitious goal of raising $30 million in support of the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship Campaign. 

The Promise @ San Jac program plays a vital role in removing financial barriers for eligible students by covering tuition and fees not met by other aid, allowing them to focus on completing their education and entering the workforce. The mixer provided an opportunity to engage with community partners and supporters who are helping advance this important initiative, as well as a preview of the upcoming “Couture for a Cause” gala celebrating three decades of impact. 

Council Member Flickinger appreciates the invitation and remains supportive of efforts that strengthen educational pathways and workforce development in our region. 

On Saturday, March 28th, Council Member Flickinger had the honor of attending the Assist the Officer's Heroes' Gala. This annual gala, held every March, is a heartfelt celebration of our HPD heroes and the vital role they play in keeping our community safe.

The event brings together community members, leaders, and supporters to recognize the dedication, bravery, and service of law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to protect our neighborhoods. Through this celebration, the Assist the Officer organization highlights the sacrifices and contributions of officers while fostering community appreciation and support. It was a memorable evening honoring the heroes among us and reinforcing the strong partnership between our community and those who serve and protect.

On Thursday, March 26th, Council Member Flickinger and staff attended a presentation hosted by the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership featuring Dr. Ayman Hawari, Head of the Department of Nuclear Engineering at Texas A&M University. Established in 1958, Texas A&M’s nuclear engineering program has grown into one of the largest and most respected in the nation, and Dr. Hawari provided valuable insight into the latest advancements in small modular and micro nuclear reactors. 

The discussion highlighted the potential for these emerging technologies to deliver reliable, resilient power both on Earth and in space, as well as Texas A&M’s efforts to accelerate testing, safety validation, and deployment. We are grateful to the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership for convening industry leaders and experts for this important conversation, which continues to position the Clear Lake area and greater Houston region at the forefront of energy innovation and technological advancement. 

On Tuesday, March 31st, District E staff attended the Victims' Rights and Support Hub Launch Event, held at Crime Stoppers of Houston, marking the introduction of a new initiative dedicated to expanding support and resources for victims and their families. The event highlighted the importance of a victim-centered approach, bringing together advocates, community leaders, and victims committed to improving access to care and information.

A powerful discussion panel featured victims who shared their experiences navigating victimization for the first time. Their insights and lived experiences played a vital role in shaping the development of this resource, emphasizing the need for clarity, compassion, and accessibility within the support system.

The Texas Victims' Rights and Support Hub is a centralized digital platform designed to empower victims and their families with greater clarity and organization, while providing direct access to critical resources. By strengthening transparency and streamlining information, the Hub helps individuals better understand their rights and options at every stage of their case, ensuring they feel informed, supported, and heard throughout the process.

On Monday, March 30th, District E staff volunteered at the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Spring Fever Golf Classic at Bay Oaks Country Club in District E. Held on a beautiful, sunny day, the event brought together local business leaders, community partners, and residents for a day of networking, friendly competition, and outdoor fun. 

Participants enjoyed a round of golf, on-course contests, great food and beverages, and the opportunity to support the Chamber through sponsorships, donations, and the helicopter ball drop fundraiser. District E staff were proud to assist throughout the day, connect with residents, and support this signature community event. Opportunities like these help strengthen relationships and continue driving economic growth in the Clear Lake area. 

TIRZ 10/Lake Houston Redevelopment Authority (LHRA) is progressing on Phases 1 and 2 of the Northpark Drive Project. Phase 2, which will expand Northpark Drive from four to six lanes, replace bridges, and add a 90-acre-foot detention basin, is moving forward with land surveys, right-of-way acquisitions, and easement preparations. Work on the Northpark Drive project continues, with crews active in several areas.

Crews are currently digging and shaping the north and south detention ponds. Once that work is finished, they will stabilize the soil and prepare for the installation of pond liners, which are expected to be installed around mid-to-late May.

Along the roadway, work is beginning in the center median to prepare for shifting traffic into its final layout. This includes adding a treated base between Sun Auto and Dunkin’ Donuts for the eastbound lanes starting April 7.

On the east side of the railroad tracks, crews are building retaining walls that will support the new bridge. Paving and concrete work are also underway near the railroad, with crews working in all four corners of the intersection over the next few weeks.

Additional work includes adjusting storm drains in the median, pouring new concrete in medians and sidewalks, and finishing areas that were previously delayed due to utility conflicts.

Traffic signal work continues at Loop 494 and Russell Palmer, with the new permanent signals at Russell Palmer expected to be up and running by mid-April. Crews will also finish clearing and restoring drainage areas behind Public Storage this week.

As always, please use caution when traveling through the area. The center median remains an active construction zone, and drivers should only use designated crossover areas when turning.

As a reminder, the next TIRZ Board meeting will be held on Thursday, May 14th at 8:00 AM at the Kingwood Community Center. Every TIRZ Board meeting is open to the public. Visit the LHRA website for more information on the Northpark Drive Overpass Project and view the 2026 Board of Directors Calendar.

On Saturday, March 28th, Council Member Flickinger and staff joined Oak Meadows for their Easter Event, which welcomed over 100 residents for a fun, family-friendly celebration. With beautiful weather setting the stage, families enjoyed food vendors, music, and time together as a community, while the Easter Bunny was a highlight for many of the children in attendance. 

Council Member Flickinger was grateful for the opportunity to visit with residents, take photos, and support the event. We appreciate Oak Meadows for hosting such a well-attended and welcoming gathering, and we are proud to continue supporting neighborhood events that bring the community together. 

Meet Lena! Lena is a 3‑year‑old spayed Staffordshire mix with beautiful black‑and‑white markings and a calm, friendly nature. When you approach her kennel, she relaxes comfortably and then gets up to greet you with a gently wagging tail.

She is easy to leash and walks smoothly on a loose leash, making outings pleasant and stress‑free. Outside, Lena stays relaxed and content, enjoying her time with a soft expression and cheerful, open‑mouthed smile. She returns to her kennel just as calmly, showing her steady and well‑mannered personality.

Lena is a sweet, gentle dog who would make a wonderful companion for a family looking for a loyal, loving friend. Click here to learn more about adopting Lena.

Residents may act as extra eyes and ears on the streets, and soon you'll be able to report a pothole, a malfunctioning traffic light, or a drainage problem while you're out and about. Houston 311 has launched a new smartphone app that makes reporting issues like these easier than ever. The app uses GPS to identify your location and also allows you to snap a photo to add to your service request. The new app allows for reports to be automatically routed to city departments for resolutions.

You can still alert the City of Houston of issues by dialing 3-1-1 or 713-837-0311 of potential problems in your community. Houstonians can also access this helpful service via an e-mail to 311@HoustonTX.gov. A self Service Request (SR) form is available online at www.houston311.org. Once you've reported a problem please follow up with the District E office by emailing your case number and information on the issue to the District E office at districte@houstontx.gov to help ensure the problem is addressed promptly.

District E Upcoming Monthly Events

Email the District E office (districte@houstontx.gov) if you would like us to include your upcoming event in future newsletters!

April 03 – Spring Holiday - City Holiday

April 08 – KSA Public Safety Committee Meeting

April 09 – HPD Northeast PIP

April 15 – Kingwood SNC

April 18 – Median Madness Round 7

April 20 – HPD Clear Lake PIP

April 20 – HPD Eastside PIP

April 21 – HPD Kingwood PIP