On Saturday, February 21st, Council Member Flickinger and staff joined the Houston Parks and Recreation Department and Council Member Sallie Alcorn for the City of Houston’s 40th Arbor Day Celebration at Greenwood Park. The beautiful morning set the perfect backdrop for a community-wide effort to expand Houston’s tree canopy and celebrate four decades of Arbor Day traditions. 

With the generous support of Apache Corporation and the dedication of numerous volunteers and families, 300 trees were planted throughout the park. The event highlighted Houston’s continued commitment as a Tree City USA community and underscored the importance of investing in green spaces that make our neighborhoods more resilient, sustainable, and vibrant. 

Council Member Flickinger was proud to stand alongside community partners and residents to help grow a greener future for District E and the City of Houston. 

A public meeting will be held on Thursday, March 5th, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Humble Civic Center (8233 Will Clayton Pkwy, Humble, TX 77338), to discuss the Lake Conroe – Lake Houston Joint Reservoir Operations Study.

The goal of this Joint Reservoir Operations Study is to determine the most efficient and safe operation of Lake Conroe and Lake Houston. The study will evaluate the feasibility of prereleases including impacts on water supply. The study will also develop a forecasting tool for Lake Houston and support development of the gate operations policy for the proposed additional Lake Houston dam spillway gates. The cost of the study is funded by the City of Houston, City of Humble, and a Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) grant obtained by the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA).

The meeting will be in a symposium format, allowing members of the public to come and go at their convenience at any time between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. A high-level presentation summarizing study background, scope, and goals will be given at 6:30 p.m. Members of the study team, including staff from SJRA, the City of Houston (with its partner Coastal Water Authority), and the City of Humble, will be available before and after the presentation to collect input and answer questions.

Comments will be accepted before, during, and following the meeting. Comments may be emailed to FloodManagementDivision@sjra.net or submitted online at www.LCLHJointOps.com.

Please visit the study website at www.LCLHJointOps.com to remain up to date on public meetings and other study materials.

On Thursday, February 26th, Council Member Flickinger and staff joined the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County in support of the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count.

The PIT Count is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development–mandated census that provides a critical snapshot of individuals experiencing homelessness across Montgomery County, Harris County, and Fort Bend County. The data collected plays a vital role in shaping local strategies and securing federal funding support that increased by $13 million from 2022 to 2023 as a direct result of strong regional collaboration.

The Sand Creek Drainage Project has resumed activities following a brief pause due to field issues involving an existing water main line that required relocation to allow for installation of the new storm drainpipe.

The contractor’s restart plan included relocating the Eagle Creek water main and installing at least one 8’ x 5’ junction component. The initial weeks were spent remobilizing, performing a critical pipe test cut, awaiting results, accommodating resident access needs, and completing the water main relocation. Installation of the 8’ x 5’ junction components has not yet begun.

Recent efforts have focused on remobilizing crews and equipment, site clean-up, and relocating the Eagle Creek water main. The water main relocation at the 2900 block of Eagle Creek has been completed, along with associated roadbed repairs. The route for the next water main installation has also been laid out.

Phase 1 is complete. Phase 2 – Step 4 remains approximately 60% complete, and overall Phase 2 progress remains at 19%. Due to challenges and constraints in the field, the completion date has been pushed back from April 25th to May 8th, weather permitting. Work hours are Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and possibly Saturdays as well. 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.

Join us on March 14th, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a community cleanup along Kingwood Drive (from Timber Shade Dr. to Cedarville Dr.). This cleanup is being coordinated in conjunction with our Matching Grant recipients, the Kings Point Homeowners 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.

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. Please sign up here to volunteer.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and make a difference, see you there!

On Friday, February 6th, Council Member Flickinger was honored to attend the South Belt–Ellington Chamber of Commerce’s Suede, Leather & Lace Gala at the Houston Marriott South at Hobby Airport, an evening that celebrated Texas hospitality, community leadership, and local pride. The western-themed event, organized by a dedicated team of volunteers, transformed the venue with barnwood accents, lantern lighting, and cowboy-inspired décor.

Guests enjoyed live entertainment, including a performance by South Belt native Rodell Duff and his band, along with unique experiences such as a custom hat bar and boot shining stations. The gala also recognized outstanding community leaders who embody the heart and grit of the South Belt–Ellington area. This year’s honorees included Jae Lee, Principal of Burnett Elementary, as Citizen of the Year; Colby Reed of Clear Brook City MUD as Volunteer of the Year; and Kristi Koncaba, recipient of the Chairman’s Award. The evening was a true celebration of the people and partnerships that help keep the South Belt–Ellington community strong and thriving. 

On Thursday, February 12th, Council Member Flickinger and staff attended Mayor John Whitmire's State of the City address, where the Mayor outlined key priorities and plans for Houston in 2026.

During the address, Mayor Whitmire emphasized that public safety remains the City’s top priority, highlighting continued investments in police and fire personnel to keep Houston neighborhoods safe. He also detailed major infrastructure initiatives, including paving thousands of miles of roads, replacing aging water lines, and strengthening drainage systems to support Houston’s growth and long-term resilience.

The Mayor reaffirmed his commitment to responsible fiscal management while advancing improvements that enhance quality of life across the city. As Houston prepares for continued growth and major upcoming events, city leadership remains focused on building a safer, stronger, and more efficient Houston for all residents.

On Thursday, February 19th, Council Member Flickinger and staff joined Galena Park ISD to celebrate the official groundbreaking of the new Cimarron Elementary, marking a significant investment in the future of local students and families. District leaders, educators, and community partners gathered to commemorate the start of construction and to share in the excitement for what the new campus will bring to the area. 

The new Cimarron Elementary will provide modern classrooms, updated technology, and enhanced learning spaces designed to support student achievement and meet the needs of a growing community. The ceremony highlighted GPISD’s continued commitment to educational excellence and long-term planning to ensure students have access to safe, innovative, and inspiring learning environments. 

Council Member Flickinger was proud to stand alongside district leadership in celebrating this milestone and looks forward to seeing the positive impact the new school will have on generations of students in the North Shore community. 

Council Member Flickinger would like to share an update with residents on the City of Houston’s Prohibited Yard Parking (PYP) Ordinance and how it is being enforced to help maintain neighborhood standards and quality of life. The Prohibited Yard Parking program was created to protect property values, preserve the appearance of single-family neighborhoods, and prevent damage to underground utilities. Established in 2009, the ordinance allows approved neighborhoods to prohibit parking on grass or other unimproved surfaces in the front and side yards of single-family homes. 

The program is now enforced by Houston Public Works’ Community Code Enforcement division. Neighborhoods that wish to participate must apply through their HOA or civic association, demonstrate at least 60% support from property owners, and meet certain location criteria. To date, 221 neighborhoods have been approved, representing about 18,500 parcels across the city. In approved PYP areas, parking on unimproved surfaces is a violation and may result in citations of up to $150 per day, with each day considered a separate offense. Enforcement may include warning letters, door hangers, and citations when necessary. 

Residents who observe potential violations can report them through the City’s 311 system by phone, online, or via the Houston 311 mobile app. Cases are handled in the order they are received. We encourage residents to first confirm with their HOA or civic association that their neighborhood is part of an approved PYP zone before submitting a report. This program works best when residents stay informed and engaged, and our office remains committed to sharing information that helps keep our communities safe, attractive, and well-maintained. 

On Tuesday, February 10th, the District E staff had the honor of attending the Greater Houston Women's Chamber of Commerce Annual Volunteer Awards and Board Introduction luncheon, joining community leaders and entrepreneurs for an inspiring gathering dedicated to empowerment, collaboration, and growth. The event provided a meaningful opportunity to connect with dynamic women across industries, celebrate leadership, and strengthen partnerships that continue to uplift our community.

This year, for their Legislative Recognitions, the Chamber honored Mayor John Whitmire, Council Member Abbie Kamin, and Senator Joan Huffmanfor for their leadership and continued commitment to public service. We are proud to celebrate their contributions and the positive impact they continue to make across Houston and beyond.

On Tuesday, February 10th, the District E staff had the opportunity to attend the State of the Precinct event hosted by Matt Gray for Montgomery County Precinct 4. The event brought together community leaders, public safety officials, and residents to hear updates on infrastructure projects, public safety initiatives, and long-term planning efforts shaping one of the fastest-growing areas in the region.

Commissioner Gray highlighted ongoing investments in roads, drainage improvements, and first responder resources to keep pace with continued growth. As neighboring communities, what happens in Montgomery County directly impacts many District E residents, particularly when it comes to mobility, flood mitigation, and regional coordination. Strong

Strong partnerships across county and city lines are essential to addressing shared challenges. I appreciate Commissioner Gray’s commitment to collaboration and look forward to continuing to work together to ensure our region remains safe, resilient, and prepared for the future.

On Thursday, February 19th and Wednesday, February 25th, Council Member Flickinger and staff joined the North Channel Area Chamber of Commerce at the Hampton Inn & Suites and officers from Houston Police Department Clear Lake Division at Starbucks for two “Coffee with a Cop” events. 

These gatherings provide residents with a relaxed, welcoming space to connect directly with local law enforcement, ask questions, share concerns, and engage in open dialogue. By creating opportunities for face-to-face conversations outside of emergency situations, Coffee with a Cop helps strengthen trust, transparency, and communication between officers and the communities they serve. 

Council Member Flickinger remains committed to supporting initiatives that build safer neighborhoods through collaboration and partnership. We are grateful to Starbucks and the Hampton Inn staff for their hospitality and to the Chamber and HPD for continuing to foster meaningful community engagement across District E. 

Council Member Flickinger recently attended the Region in Motion Luncheon hosted by the Transportation Advocacy Group, where leaders from across Southeast Texas gathered to address the infrastructure demands created by rapid regional growth.

County Judges, Matt Sebesta, KP George, Mark Keough, Jay Knight, and Phillip Spenrath , joined Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey to share candid insights on managing population growth, leveraging bonds as a potential funding tool, and prioritizing infrastructure investments necessary to support expanding communities. The discussion focused on mobility, public safety, power reliability, drainage, and long-term resilience.

For District E residents, these regional conversations have direct local impact. Growth across neighboring counties affects daily commutes, traffic flow along major corridors, emergency response coordination, and long-term flood mitigation efforts. Strategic, coordinated investment across jurisdictional lines helps reduce congestion, strengthen infrastructure reliability, and protect property values. As development continues throughout the region, collaboration between city and county leaders remains essential to ensuring District E stays connected, resilient, and prepared for the future.

On Tuesday, February 17th, District E staff attended the Bay Area Houston Transportation Partnership Infrastructure Summit, where regional leaders gathered to discuss the infrastructure investments needed to support the rapid growth of the greater Bay Area Houston region. As the area continues to expand as a hub for aerospace, petrochemical, medical, and logistics industries, the summit focused on strengthening transportation networks, enhancing drainage systems, and advancing coastal protection efforts. 

A major theme of the discussion was flood resilience. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, significant progress has been made to improve watershed and drainage systems, though Harris County Flood Control District officials emphasized the ongoing funding needs and coordination challenges across multiple watersheds. Representatives also highlighted the heightened storm surge risk facing Galveston County underscored by the devastating impacts of Hurricane Ike and the importance of proactive planning in Brazoria County as growth accelerates along the coast. 

Central to the conversation was the Coastal Texas Project, also known as the Coastal Spine or “Ike Dike,” led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Texas General Land Office. As the Corps’ largest civil works initiative, the project is designed to protect Galveston Bay, the Bolivar Peninsula, Galveston Island, the Houston Ship Channel, and the upper Texas Coast through surge barriers, beach and dune systems, and large-scale ecosystem restoration. Leaders stressed that regional collaboration is essential to safeguarding our communities, protecting critical industries, and building resilient infrastructure that supports long-term economic growth and mobility across Bay Area Houston. 

On Saturday, February 14th, District E staff joined volunteers at NASA Area Pony for their annual field maintenance day in preparation for the upcoming season and Opening Day. Community members came together to clean, repair, and prepare the fields, ensuring young athletes have a safe and welcoming place to play. 

A special thank you to the Houston Fire Department Academy Cadets and Captain Rob Goldstraw for their incredible hard work and dedication. The cadets truly “moved mountains,” tackling projects big and small and demonstrating the spirit of service that strengthens our community both on and off the field. Their support helped make the day a tremendous success and set the stage for a great season ahead at NASA Area Pony. 

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.

Future efforts will include planting new trees and landscaping at the school entrance, further beautifying the area, and creating a safer, more inviting community. This project exemplifies service, leadership, and lasting community impact as the Kingwood Chapter submits it for national recognition.

The Young Men’s Service League is a 501(c)(3) non-profit national organization. Members of YMSL are moms and their teenage sons who volunteer together to serve their local communities during their four years of high school. YMSL currently represents more than 31,700 members and young men through more than 199 chapters across 24 states.

YMSL offers moms service opportunities and time together with their son(s) to grow their relationship and to instill in them a heart of service to last a lifetime. In addition to service, as part of its four-year comprehensive program, YMSL teaches leadership and life skills to develop our young men to become the capable, confident, and compassionate leaders of tomorrow.

To find more information about the Kingwood Chapter of YMSL or to see if there are chapters near you visit the Young Men's Service League's website.

On Wednesday, February 25th, District E staff attended the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon at Landry's Kemah Boardwalk, where business and community leaders gathered to connect and gear up for the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo season. 

The luncheon featured an entertaining and informative presentation from rodeo favorite “Flame,” who shared the rich history of the Rodeo, its significant economic impact on the Houston region, this year’s schedule highlights, and exciting new additions planned for 2026. Attendees embraced the western spirit, sporting denim and boots as they celebrated one of Houston’s most iconic traditions. 

The event provided a valuable opportunity for local businesses and community partners to network, strengthen relationships, and recognize the important role the Rodeo plays in supporting scholarships, youth programs, and economic development across the region.

On Saturday, February 28th, Council Member Flickinger and his council colleagues joined the Houston 2026 Downtown Rodeo Parade. This year’s grand marshal was U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Scott Ruskan, who earned national recognition for his heroic rescues during the historic Independence Day flash floods in the Texas Hill Country. At just 26, Ruskan risked his life to save 165 children from fast-moving floodwaters, earning praise from top officials and highlighting the vital role of Coast Guard rescue swimmers in disaster response. He continues to serve on active duty, supporting search-and-rescue missions along the Gulf Coast.

The Downtown Rodeo Parade is a vibrant celebration of Houston’s Western heritage, featuring colorful floats, mounted patrols, trail riders, marching bands, and dedicated volunteers. Tens of thousands of spectators line the downtown streets each year, making it one of the city’s most beloved and unifying community events.

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.

The Northpark Drive Overpass Project continues to move forward with multiple crews working across the corridor.

The storm sewer crew is currently connecting laterals across eastbound Northpark within the limits of the old, now-abandoned eastbound lanes. This work will complete the storm system on the east side of the railroad tracks. Once finished, the crew will temporarily demobilize until the feeder roads are ready.

The dirt crew remains active within the Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way, preparing subgrade in all four quadrants and installing additional stormwater pipe in advance of upcoming railroad signal work. After completing work in the rail corridor, they will shift to the median near Quick Quack Car Wash to begin excavation for bridge retaining walls.

Paving crews are continuing work at the intersection of Northpark Drive and Anderson Road. They will then move toward Extra Space Storage to complete westbound paving up to the railroad right-of-way, then return to Anderson Road, with completion anticipated by mid-March.

Retaining wall construction is set to begin the first week of March with bridge footing pours on the east side of the tracks. Sidewalk crews will pour new sidewalk westbound from the end of the project to Northpark Christian Church, while streetlight crews continue drilling foundations. A drill subcontractor will also begin excavation for the shafts needed to support the retaining walls.

As a reminder, the next TIRZ Board meeting will be held on Thursday, March 12 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.

Meet Dolly! Dolly is a six-year-old tan-and-white Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix weighing about 50 pounds. She’s a spayed female in a foster home and has a fun, energetic personality with a strong foundation that makes her easy to work with.

Dolly is fully potty trained, heartworm negative, and quick to learn new routines. She knows how to sit on command, responds well to guidance, and is very treat motivated. She loves squeaky toys, enjoys couch cuddles, and rides calmly in the car. She also likes being part of family activities. Pup cups and plain shredded chicken are her favorite rewards, and she relaxes comfortably in a playpen with her bed, toys, and snacks.

She would do well with someone who has dog experience and can help her continue building confidence. Affectionate, playful, and eager to bond, Dolly is ready to become a wonderful companion.

If you’re looking for a dog who is loving, spirited, and full of heart, Dolly could be the perfect match. Click here to learn more about adopting Dolly today!

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.

The Houston Mayor's Youth Council (MYC) is collecting new K-8 books to give Houston's youth access to a book of their own to take home.

On April 11th, MYC will host its inaugural Book Fair at Sunnyside Multi-Service Center, distributing free new books to over 300 K-8 students from economically underserved communities across Houston. Research shows that 61% of low-income students lack access to books at home, and this event is helping combat that.

Here's how District E Neighbors can help: Donate new books for grades K-8 by March 27th at the Kingwood Public Library (4400 Bens View Lane, Kingwood, TX 77339). Every book donated goes directly into the hands of a Houston child, we need your help!

District E residents are invited to lace up their running shoes and take part in the 2026 Aviator Run on Saturday, March 28th at 8:00 a.m. at Ellington Airport / Houston Spaceport (Gate N-01), located at 6011 Farley Road, Houston, TX 77034. 

This year’s event is expanding with the addition of a new 10K route, offering even more opportunities for runners and walkers of all experience levels to participate. Proceeds from the Aviator Run benefit Wings of Compassion – Houston Airports, a charity that supports airport employees, the traveling public, and the broader airport community. With nearly 50 million travelers passing through Houston’s airports each year, many traveling during moments of joy, sorrow, illness, or personal hardship—Wings of Compassion provides meaningful assistance when it is needed most. 

We encourage District E residents to register, show their community spirit, and support a cause that serves travelers from around the world right here in our backyard. Click HERE to register. 

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!

March 05 – SRJA Public Meeting on Lake Conroe

March 11 – KSA Public Safety Committee Meeting

March 12 – TIRZ 10 - Board of Directors Meeting 

March 12 – HPD Northeast PIP

March 14 – Median Madness Round 6

March 16 – HPD Clear Lake PIP

March 16 – HPD Eastside PIP

March 18 – Kingwood SNC