Newsletter Issue: January, 2026

Friends,

As we turn the page on 2026, I want to say thank you for the trust you place in City Hall and for the pride you show in our Houston neighborhoods every single day. A new year gives us a moment to look back, reset our compass, and move forward with fresh purpose—and I’m raring to go! There is much work ahead as we remain focused on making Houston better for every family we serve.

This January also brings an exciting transition for our office. I’m proud to welcome Shiva Baradaran as our new Chief of Staff. Before joining our team, Shiva served in a number of roles for State Senator Brandon Creighton, where she built strong experience in constituent services, legislative coordination, and forging partnerships across the region. She brings a steady hand, deep policy knowledge, and a genuine commitment to public service. Shiva knows that good government starts with listening, and she shares our belief that progress is best made when community voices help shape policy. I’m confident she’ll be a tireless advocate for the city and a trusted partner to residents, stakeholders, and city departments alike.

The start of a new year feels a bit like the first notes of a familiar tune, “it’s a new dawn, it’s a new day” —a reminder that even as the work carries on, so does our ability to improve, work together, and build something better. With that spirit guiding us, our office will stay focused on practical, common-sense solutions: strengthening public safety and addressing homelessness with both compassion and accountability.

Thank you for staying engaged, for holding us to high standards, and for believing in Houston’s future. I look forward to seeing you out in the community and to working alongside Shiva and our team to make 2026 a year of real, measurable progress.

Onward and upward,

RESILIENCE COMMITTEE

Preparing Houston for the Future

At the most recent Resilience Committee meeting, Council Member Carter and committee members heard from Richard Seline, Executive Director of Future Proofing America, who shared insights on how cities can better prepare for future challenges while protecting residents, neighborhoods, and local economies.

The presentation focused on the growing impact of natural disasters across the country and the importance of planning ahead rather than reacting after emergencies occur. Seline emphasized that proactive preparation can help communities reduce long-term costs, limit disruption, and better protect families, homes, and businesses.

Discussion also highlighted the value of coordination between local governments, community partners, and other stakeholders to strengthen resilience at the neighborhood level. By planning ahead and investing wisely, cities like Houston can be better positioned to respond to future challenges while continuing to grow and thrive.

OUT AND ABOUT

Celebrating New Beginnings with The Oaks

Community, faith, and second chances were at the heart of "Acorns to Oaks: Transforming Generations Through Christ," hosted by Oaks of Righteousness at the United City Church in Humble. Council Member Carter attended the event as the keynote speaker—sharing remarks in support of the organization’s mission to walk alongside women returning from incarceration as they rebuild their lives and strengthen family connections.

Oaks of Righteousness focuses on breaking generational cycles through mentorship, accountability, spiritual guidance, and practical life skills. The program emphasizes long-term transformation by helping participants establish stability, restore relationships, and move forward with confidence and purpose. The event also highlighted powerful stories of resilience and growth, underscoring the impact of compassionate, community-based support.

Council Member Carter continues to support initiatives that promote restoration, dignity, and opportunity, recognizing the importance of creating meaningful pathways forward for individuals and families working to build a new chapter.

Connecting with Regional Parters for the Holidays

The holiday season provided an opportunity to connect with partners who work year-round to strengthen Houston’s economy, support local businesses, and give back to the community. Council Member Carter spent time with leaders across the region at holiday gatherings that reflected the importance of collaboration, service, and shared commitment to Houston’s future.

At the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) Holiday Party, Council Member Carter joined regional partners focused on advancing economic growth, innovation, and opportunity across Houston’s Bay Area communities. The gathering offered time to connect with those supporting local businesses and industries that play a vital role in the region’s continued success.

She also attended the ACEC Houston Chapter Holiday Party, where engineering professionals, civic leaders, and community partners came together to celebrate the season and the work accomplished throughout the year. The evening included a toy drive benefiting Carrying Hope Houston, highlighting the spirit of generosity and the importance of supporting children and families during the holidays.

Holiday Connections Across Houston

The holiday season offered many opportunities to connect with colleagues, partners, and leaders from across Houston while celebrating the spirit of community that brings our city together. At the City Council Holiday Gathering, council staff shared live music, sang carols together, and Council Member Carter took a photo with District G Council Member Mary Nan Huffman alongside Toro, the Houston Texans mascot, capturing the festive spirit of the season.

Council Member Carter also stopped by District B Presents: End of the Year Party, hosted by District B Council Member Tarsha Jackson, before attending the Jingle & Mingle Holiday Extravaganza at Levy Park. The gathering brought together business and civic partners and was hosted by Dr. Lucky Chopra, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Advanced Diagnostics Healthcare System and hospitality entrepreneur behind the Hearsay brand. She enjoyed connecting with community and cultural leaders during the evening, including Cindy Clifford, President of The Clifford Group, Inc.

The celebrations continued at the Houston Arts Alliance Holiday Party, where Council Member Carter connected with community and cultural leaders including Taylor Jackson, Chief Executive Officer of Houston Arts Alliance; Phoebe Tudor, Founding Chair of the Astrodome Conservancy; and Michelle Leal, Senior Consultant with Treviño Consulting Group. Additional gatherings included holiday events hosted by Zarinkelk Engineering Services and District I Council Member Joaquin Martinez.

Leadership Houston Visits City Hall

Council Member Carter welcomed members of Leadership Houston Class XLIV to City Hall for Government Day in Council Chambers, where participants engaged in a discussion on the role of city government and the work underway at the City of Houston. The session offered an opportunity to share insight into how policy, collaboration, and public service come together to address the needs of residents across the city.

During the visit, she shared key priorities and initiatives advanced through the At-Large 3 Office, including efforts focused on housing stability, public safety, domestic violence prevention, and support for vulnerable populations. Alongside City Council Member colleagues Julian Ramirez and Amy Peck, participants also had the opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of how city leadership works in practice to serve Houston’s diverse communities.

Leadership Houston continues to play an important role in developing informed, engaged leaders, and Council Member Carter remains committed to supporting opportunities that strengthen civic understanding and public engagement across Houston.

HFD's Operation: Stocking Stuffer

Council Member Carter’s office joined the Houston Fire Department for this year’s Operation: Stocking Stuffer, a long-standing holiday tradition that brings joy to children and families across Houston. The initiative is one of the city’s largest seasonal efforts, helping ensure thousands of children receive gifts during the holidays.

In preparation for distribution, the At-Large 3 Team worked alongside the offices of Council Member Amy Peck, Council Member Sallie Alcorn, and Council Member Joaquin Martinez to help sort and organize toys donated by generous Houstonians and community partners. The effort reflected the teamwork and collaboration that make citywide initiatives like this possible.

Those gifts were later distributed to families in the community as Council Member Carter’s office joined the offices of Council Member Martha Castex-Tatum and Council Member Carolyn Evans-Shabazz at Nueva Jerusalen Church, helping place gifts directly into the hands of children and families during the holiday season.

District D's Holiday Fixins Food Drive

Council Member Carter’s office joined Council Member Carolyn Evans-Shabazz at the Houston Texans YMCA for the District D Holiday Fixins Food Distribution, where families gathered in large numbers to receive much-needed food support during the holiday season. The event created a welcoming space for neighbors to connect while ensuring households had resources to help put meals on the table.

Strong community partnerships helped make the distribution possible, including support from the Houston Police Department, the University of Houston, and Daikin Comfort, which provided air purifiers to participating families. With music, volunteers, and steady turnout throughout the day, the event met real needs while bringing warmth and care to the community.

At-Large 3 Team Attends Holiday Gatherings

The At-Large 3 Team joined neighbors and community leaders at holiday gatherings across Houston, celebrating the season while strengthening connections in local communities. These gatherings offered meaningful opportunities to connect, celebrate, and recognize the people and partnerships that help make Houston’s neighborhoods strong during the holidays and throughout the year.

In the Greater Fifth Ward, the team attended “Christmas in the Nickel,” hosted by Greater Fifth Ward Super Neighborhood #55. Residents came together for an evening of music, holiday cheer, and community pride. Harris County Constable Silvia Trevino joined Super Neighborhood President Joetta Stevenson for the official tree lighting countdown, marking a festive moment shared by neighbors of all ages.

The team also attended the East End & Northside Leaders Holiday Event at historic Fire Station 317 on Sampson Street, where nonprofit partners, civic leaders, and community advocates gathered to celebrate the season and reflect on the year ahead. The evening included leaders such as Sonia Corrales, Interim CEO of the Houston Area Women’s Center, and Joy Horak-Brown, President and CEO of New Hope Housing, Inc., highlighting the collaboration that supports neighborhoods across the East End and Northside.

Legacy Community Health's Southwest Center Tour

Council Member Carter recently visited Legacy Community Health’s Southwest Center to tour the facility and learn more about the comprehensive healthcare services available to families across the community. Legacy Community Health offers a wide range of services, including primary and preventive care, OB/GYN services, and behavioral health support—ensuring patients can receive coordinated care. Through this holistic approach, Legacy continues to strengthen health outcomes and reduce barriers to care for underserved populations.

Council Member Carter values partnerships that expand access to healthcare and support the overall well-being of Houston’s neighborhoods, and remains committed to advancing policies and collaborations that promote healthier communities for all.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Council Member on KHOU 11's Quest 55

Council Member Carter appeared on KHOU 11 News’ Quest 55 for a focused conversation on homelessness and domestic violence, emphasizing why awareness, prevention, and early intervention remain critical to addressing these challenges across Houston.

The interview, hosted by Dr. Laura Murillo, President and CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, highlighted Council Member Carter’s statewide domestic violence awareness initiative, I’m OK, Are You OK?, which she is advancing in partnership with the Texas Council on Family Violence (TCFV) to increase awareness, encourage early intervention, and help communities recognize and respond to domestic violence before it escalates.

Discussion also included 419 Emancipation, which is envisioned as a compass for individuals experiencing homelessness—providing compassion, stability, and a clear path forward. The site is planned to offer up to 240 beds along with essential on-site services, including healthcare, behavioral health support, stabilization beds, and connections to recovery, reentry, and housing pathways. The approach balances care with accountability while supporting the broader community.

Council Member Carter remains focused on advancing solutions that strengthen safety, stability, and collaboration as Houston continues its work to address homelessness and support individuals across the city.

Harmony House "Government Award" Honoree

Council Member Carter was honored to receive the Harmony House Government Award at the organization’s annual gala, recognizing her leadership, partnership, and dedication to advancing compassionate, practical solutions for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Houston.

The recognition reflects a shared commitment to public service and long-standing collaboration focused on creating meaningful, lasting change. Harmony House, Inc. recognized Council Member Carter for her continued work alongside community partners to strengthen pathways to housing stability and support those most in need. The award highlights the importance of collaboration between local leadership and nonprofit organizations that are addressing homelessness with dignity, accountability, and care.

Council Member Carter is honored to receive this recognition and proud to support the work Harmony House does each day to help ensure every Houstonian has the opportunity to find stability, dignity, and a place to call home.

State of the Airports Luncheon

Council Member Carter attended the State of the Airports Luncheon hosted by the Greater Houston Partnership, where regional leaders gathered to discuss the role Houston’s airports play in driving economic growth and global connectivity. The conversation highlighted how air travel supports jobs, business expansion, and Houston’s position as a major international hub.

The presentations underscored the scale and impact of the Houston Airports System, which serves more than 63 million passengers annually and contributes $40.6 billion to the local economy. Updates focused on mobility, infrastructure investment, and long-term planning to ensure Houston’s airports continue meeting the needs of residents, visitors, and businesses alike.

Progress Through Re-Entry Support

The Houston Health Department’s 34th Biannual Fall Community Re-Entry Network Program (CRNP) Graduation marked an important moment for individuals completing a structured path toward stability, employment, and a fresh start. Council Member Carter delivered remarks on behalf of Mayor John Whitmire, recognizing the hard work, resilience, and commitment shown by this graduating class.

The event highlighted the vital role CRNP plays in supporting individuals returning home by offering guidance, accountability, and access to critical resources. Under the leadership of Dr. Theresa Tran, Director of the Houston Health Department, the CRNP team continues to build pathways that help participants rebuild their lives and move forward with confidence.

Congratulations to all of the graduates on this well-earned achievement. Your dedication reflects the power of opportunity and support—and Houston is stronger because of you.

COUNCIL MATTERS

During December City Council sessions, several key items were approved that reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety, invest in infrastructure, protect neighborhoods from flooding, and expand community resources across Houston. Below is a summary of notable items addressed:

Approved the FY2026 operations and maintenance budget for the Lake Conroe Dam and Reservoir, supporting regional water supply reliability, flood mitigation, and long-term infrastructure resilience.
Extended the contract for Houston Police Department uniforms, ensuring officers continue to have the essential equipment needed to safely serve the community while new procurement process is prepared.
Approved a resolution OPPOSING the Scarborough Lane Project in Montgomery County. This construction would inevitably place Montgomery and Harris County residents at greater risk for future flooding.
Appropriated $500,000 to upgrade HPD’s Public Safety Video Network, strengthening real-time monitoring and citywide public safety response.
Approved an amendment to expand engineering services for the rehabilitation of multiple wastewater lift stations, strengthening system reliability.
Adopted an Ordinance to allow Public Session to occur at 5pm on the final Tuesday meeting of each month, increasing accessibility and engagement for Houston residents.
Mayor Whitmire announced HUD’s approval of $314 million in disaster recovery funds to support ongoing recovery efforts, home repairs and the installation of generators in local community centers.
Approved Project/Financing Plans for the Greater Greenspoint TIRZ, including a 50-acre boundary expansion to support future low-income housing.
New appointments for the Houston-Galveston Area Council Board of Directors; Council Member Joaquin Martinez and Council Member Fred Flickinger. Thank you for your service!

Together, these actions demonstrate continued progress on issues that matter most to Houston residents—from public safety and flood mitigation to infrastructure investment, transparency, and long-term community development. Council Member Carter remains committed to keeping constituents informed and engaged as this work continues.

HOUSTON HAPPENINGS

Birds of the World

The Houston Zoo's newest exhibit, Birds of the World, is now open, and features three spacious aviaries, highlighting birds from the following regions:

The African Savanna aviary highlights majestic, grey crowned cranes, vultures, hamerkops, and more.

The North American Woodlands exhibit features a variety of American songbirds including blue grosbeaks and indigo buntings, helping connect visitors to the beautiful birds in their own backyard.

The South American Wetlands habitat is an immersive aviary, giving guests the chance to walk among spectacular variety of South American birds including a perennial favorite, Chilean flamingos.

Board Games at the Library: Enjoy an afternoon of fun and friendly competition at the Tuttle Neighborhood Library on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. This in-person program invites all ages to play classic board games, card games, and party favorites in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The event takes place in the Meeting Room at the Tuttle Neighborhood Library.

Family History Research Orientation: Discover your family roots at the Clayton Library’s Family History Research Center during this in-person genealogy orientation on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Participants will receive a brief introduction to genealogy research, enjoy a guided tour of the collection, and get one-on-one assistance from expert staff.

For more Houston Public Library events, click here.