Council Member Fred Flickinger's February Newsletter

Monthly Newsletter

February 12, 2024 Issue 1

Dear District E Residents,

I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the new Houston City Council Member for District E and represent every community across the district. As I begin my term, I would like to share a few areas of focus that I believe are of utmost importance to our community's well-being and growth.

First and foremost, public safety is a top priority for me. It is crucial that we all feel secure and protected in our homes and neighborhoods. I am committed to working closely with our Houston Police Department Divisions to ensure they have the resources and support they need to keep our community safe. I plan to utilize my Council District Service Funds to supplement the District E HPD Divisions' efforts to keep us safe. Together, we can foster strong relationships with law enforcement and implement proactive strategies to prevent crime and create a sense of security.

Additionally, as many of you are aware, our community has experienced its fair share of challenges when it comes to flooding. Addressing flood mitigation is a critical task that requires immediate attention. I will continue the strong work put forth by Council Member Dave Martin and work diligently with Houston Public Works, Harris County Flood Control District, and Harris County among other experts to implement comprehensive measures that effectively manage and mitigate flooding risks. We must invest in infrastructure and projects that will safeguard our homes and businesses from future flood events. This includes the Lake Houston Spillway Dam Improvement Project, dredging Lake Houston, and continued funding for local drainage projects.

Lastly, infrastructure improvements are vital for the growth and prosperity of any community. Our roads, bridges, water systems, and utilities play a crucial role in enhancing our quality of life. I am committed to collaborating with my fellow council members and seeking innovative solutions to improve our community's infrastructure. By focusing on targeted investments and strategic planning, we can ensure our transportation systems are efficient, our utilities are reliable, and our community remains accessible to all.

I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to our community's continued success, and I am committed to representing your interests and concerns. As your council member, I encourage you to reach out to me with any questions, ideas, or suggestions you may have. Together, we can make a significant and lasting impact on the issues that matter most to us.

Thank you for placing your trust in me, and I am excited to work with each and every one of you to create a safer, more resilient, and better-connected community.

Sincerely,

The District E Office

Council Member Fred Flickinger

900 Bagby, First Floor

Houston, TX 77002

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (832) 393-3008

The District E Team

Dustin Hodges

Chief of Staff

Demari Perez

North Sector Manager

Yasmine Perez

South Sector Manager

City Resources

Kingwood Community Center

(281) 348-2570

Houston 311 (713) 837-0311

City of Houston Solid Waste Department

City of Houston Office of Emergency Management

Community Resources

Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce

Partnership Lake Houston

Kingwood Service Association

Kingwood Super Neighborhood Council

Dustin Hodges, Chief of Staff

Dustin Hodges serves as the Chief of Staff for District E Council Member Fred Flickinger. He has worked on the District E staff since 2020. Dustin graduated from Texas Tech University in 2012 with a Bachelor's degree in Sociology. In 2018, he graduated from the George Bush School of Government & Public Service at Texas A&M University with his Master's degree in Public Service and Administration.

Before pursuing his Master's degree, Dustin spent nearly 5 years working for his hometown of Bay City as the City's Public Information Officer and Chief of Staff to the Mayor. During his time with the City of Bay City, he served as Education Chair of the Matagorda Local Emergency Planning Committee, Chairman of the City's Charter Review Commission, and was an active member of the Bay City Lions Club.

After graduating with his Masters, Dustin and his wife, Meghan, moved to Houston to start their family. They have two amazing children Mallory (3) and Deacon (2). They enjoy trips to the park with their dog Finley, road-tripping around Texas, and exploring all the great things Houston has to offer.

Demari Perez, North Sector Manager

Demari Perez is a native born Houstonian of Cuban and Mexican descent and grew up valuing the importance of hard work and community involvement. In 2020, she began attending the University of Houston to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science with a minor in Integrated Communications. She will graduate from the University on May, 9th 2024.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Demari has also gained practical experience in local politics. She worked in the District E office with Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin as his executive assistant, where she learned the ins and outs of local government and developed a deep appreciation for the importance of constituent services. As she transitions into the role of Council Member Flickinger's North Sector Manager, she will be responsible for working with residents and community leaders to address concerns and implement initiatives that improve the quality of life in District E.

Demari plans to continue her work in local politics after graduation, and hopes to make a positive impact in Houston and beyond. She is committed to serving the constituents of District E and empowering individuals and communities to make their voices heard.

Yasmine Perez, South Sector Manager

Yasmine Perez is a proud native Houstonian who has deep roots in our vibrant city. She recently graduated from the esteemed University of Houston, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a minor in Political Science. Her academic accomplishments reflect her commitment to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the human mind and the inner workings of our political system.

Before joining our team, Yasmine had the unique privilege of working closely with Mayor Pro Tem Martin as his Administrative Assistant during his last year in office. This invaluable experience allowed her to witness firsthand the intricacies of local politics and sharpen her skills in navigating the multifaceted landscape of municipal governance. Her time alongside Mayor Pro Tem Martin only deepened her dedication to making a positive impact on our community and spurred her aspiration to continue her professional journey in local politics.

Yasmine spiritedly anticipates utilizing her knowledge for the southern portion of District E to ensure cohesion, safety, and improvements for the community.

2024 Quasar Award Banquet

We are delighted to share the highlights of Council Member Flickinger's attendance at the prestigious 2024 BAHEP Quasar awards ceremony, which took place on Friday, January 26th at the elegant South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center. This event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including Mayor Whitmire and Council Members Alcorn, Ramirez, and Kamin, who all recognized and commended the exceptional work being done by BAHEP for the City of Houston.

On behalf of the District E office, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year's well-deserved Quasar award recipient, Space Center Houston CEO William Harris. Mr. Harris' remarkable leadership and vision have propelled Space Center Houston to new heights, resulting in a staggering annual economic impact of $118.7 million to our area. This achievement not only serves as a testament to Mr. Harris' exceptional capabilities but also underscores the incredible opportunities and economic growth that can arise from strategic partnerships within our district.

We are immensely grateful to have such remarkable partners like BAHEP, who consistently work towards the betterment of our community. Their tireless efforts in promoting economic development and fostering collaboration between various stakeholders are priceless. Events like the Quasar awards provide a platform to recognize and celebrate the exemplary achievements of individuals and organizations who contribute significantly to the prosperity of Houston.

City of Houston's 38th Annual Arbor Day

The District E office is pleased to report that our community's Arbor Day celebration on Saturday, January 27th at Wilson Memorial Park was a great success. The District E office was thrilled to have the esteemed presence of Council Member Alcorn, as well as the incredible turnout of dedicated volunteers who made this event truly remarkable.

Our gratitude goes out to Director Allen and the entire parks department for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in planning and executing a memorable Arbor Day celebration. Their dedication ensured that every aspect of the event was meticulously organized and flawlessly executed, leaving a lasting impact on our community.

Furthermore, we must extend a heartfelt thank you to our esteemed sponsors, Apache Corporation, Accenture, and the Texas A&M Forest Service, whose generous support made this event possible. Their commitment to the preservation of our environment and the importance of tree planting is truly commendable. Their contributions enabled us to create a vibrant and engaging experience for all attendees, fostering a sense of unity and connection to our natural surroundings.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to all the volunteers who braved the cold and wet weather to come out and plant trees. Your commitment to the betterment of our community is truly inspiring. It is thanks to your hard work and dedication that we were able to plant a substantial number of trees, leaving a lasting impact on our environment and beautifying our beloved parks for years to come.

The success of our Arbor Day celebration serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of our community. It is occasions like these that remind us of the power of unity and collaboration in creating positive change. We are incredibly proud to serve a community where individuals come together to make a tangible difference.

Kingwood Place Village Drainage Improvement Project

On Friday, January 26, crews were mobilized on-site to begin the storm sewer rehabilitation project with an estimated completion of Monday, April 29th, weather permitting. The scope of work includes upsizing storm sewer lines and adding additional inlets along Ladbrook Drive, Ridgeway Trail, and Ridgeway Park Drive. The cost of the project is $1.2 million and is funded through the Dedicated Drainage and Street Renewal Fund.

Construction activities are expected to take place from 7:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Residents should be aware of possible lane closures and delays when traveling through this area.

As a result of the construction activities, please be aware of flagmen and orange traffic cones that will be used to help with traffic flow through the construction zone. Residents will have access to driveways at all times and may experience an increase in noise levels due to trucks and equipment in the area. Patience is appreciated as City crews work in this area.

Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon: Orion Program Status

The District E office is excited to share a recap of the recent Annual Membership Luncheon hosted by the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. The District E office had the pleasure of attending this event, which took place at the picturesque Lakewood Yacht Club. The highlight of the luncheon was an engaging talk delivered by none other than Debbie Korth, the Orion Deputy Program Manager for NASA's Johnson Space Center, who provided a comprehensive update on the Orion Program Status.

During her presentation, Mrs. Korth enlightened the audience with insightful information about NASA's spacecraft designed for deep space exploration. The crowd was captivated as she delved into the fascinating details of Artemis II, a pivotal mission in the ongoing efforts to explore distant realms. Through her meticulous timeline presentation, Mrs. Korth shed light on the upcoming missions in store for the years to come, painting a vivid picture of the future of space exploration.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Korth for gracing us with her presence and sharing her extensive knowledge and expertise. Her passion for the Orion Program was evident as she effortlessly conveyed the intricacies of NASA's ambitious endeavors. We are incredibly fortunate to have such remarkable individuals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of human exploration right here in our community.

We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce for their exceptional coordination of this luncheon. Their commitment to fostering connections between the business community and government entities is commendable, and events like this provide invaluable opportunities for dialogues that shape the future development of our district.

Lake Houston Dredging Update

Council Member Flickinger wants to make Lake Houston area residents aware the City's contractor for dredging, DRC, will begin dredging the area south of the West Fork-Mouth Bar this month. DRC is estimated to remove approximately 800,000 cubic yards of silt and sediment. The removal will take two years and DRC will utilize primarily hydraulic dredging.

The additional dredging in this area is funded by FEMA and is the result of Council Member Dave Martin and Chief Recovery Officer Stephen Costello's tireless efforts in protesting the initial amount put forth by FEMA back in 2019. In August 2020, FEMA, through their technical consultant at the USACE, concurred with the City's ninety-four-page technical report. Council Member Martin strongly disagreed with the USACE's four-page tabletop study and continued to appeal and push forward to get the project he knew the Lake Houston Area deserved.

The District E Office has been consistent in the fight to get more for District E residents since Hurricane Harvey and will continue to push for meaningful projects that will reduce the risk of future flooding throughout District E. Council Member Flickinger looks forward to the completion of the planned projects and continued collaboration with local representatives.

Northpark Drive Overpass Project Update

Construction on the drainage components of the Northpark Drive Overpass Project continues to move along. Utility conflicts preventing the final box culverts to be installed will soon be completed. Once the water and gas line conflicts are resolved the contractor will be able to finish the installation of the box culverts in the median. Over the last few weeks, the contractor, Harper Bros., has started to build the new outfall and clear and grub the drainage ditch behind Public Storage. In order to remove extra stormwater that builds up in the detention basins near the Hwy 59/69 Northpark Drive entry, the ditch will serve as an alternate route. The drainage ditch runs parallel to Northpark Drive behind the businesses on the north side of the street.

Harper Bros. will also continue the excavation of the detention basins. The Landscape architects have finished relocating the remaining trees on the right/south side of Northpark to create a backdrop for the new ponds. While some trees will remain in front of the pond.

Planning for Phase II of the project (east of the Kingwood Diversion Ditch) has begun. Lake Houston Redevelopment Authority/TIRZ 10 will hold two public meetings. The first public meeting is scheduled for March 7, 2024, at the Kingwood Community Center from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM to discuss Phase II and solicit input from other groups and residents.

As a reminder, the next TIRZ Board meeting will be held on Thursday, March 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 2024 Board of Directors Calendar.

Report a Streetlight Outage

CenterPoint Energy maintains streetlights throughout District E and the City of Houston. If you notice a streetlight out in your area, please click on the link below to report a streetlight outage.

You will be asked to provide:

a pole number (or nearby address) for the non-functioning lights you want to report
contact information (in case more information is needed to locate a streetlight)
an e-mail address (if you want feedback regarding your repair request)
the number of streetlights you would like to report

The system will guide you through the remaining steps. To repo rt a streetlight outage using the interactive map, click here.

Report general power outages by calling 713-207-2222 or toll-free 800-332-7143.

Utilizing 3-1-1 to Report Issues

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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected] to help make sure the problem is addressed in a timely manner.