The Carter Chronicles: April, 2026

Friends,

Spring has a way of showing off here in Houston—as the old Texas tune says, the stars at night are big and bright... reminding us that this season brings both beauty and renewal across the Lone Star State—and baseball! March brought packed event calendars, bustling restaurants and hotels, Houston’s visitor economy was alive and well. Folks came from near and far to experience what we already know: there’s no place quite like this big, bold, and welcoming city we call home.

That kind of momentum doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a testament to the hardworking small businesses, hospitality teams, and community partners who roll out the red carpet every day. It also reflects something just as important—confidence in Houston as a city where public safety is a priority and the rule of law is respected.

I continue to be very direct about where I stand: I fully support the men and women of the Houston Police Department and all of our public safety partners. They show up day in and day out to uphold the law with consistency and integrity, and that work is the backbone of a safe, strong city. Public safety isn’t negotiable—it’s fundamental. When our officers are backed and equipped to do their jobs, our neighborhoods are safer, our businesses thrive, and our families can live with confidence and peace of mind.

Public safety isn’t just a talking point—it’s a promise. And I will continue to advocate for the resources, policies, and leadership needed to ensure Houston remains a place where law-abiding citizens come first and those who break the law are held accountable. I also believe in open, honest conversation—if you have questions or want to better understand where I stand, I welcome the opportunity to sit down with you one-on-one and talk it through.

Here in Houston, we believe in showing up, working hard, and looking out for one another. March was a clear reminder that when we do that—and when we back our law enforcement—good things follow: safer communities, a thriving local economy, and a city that continues to lead the way for the great state of Texas.

Fleet Week Houston 2026 will sail in soon - April 15-22. Take a look at the website Fleet Week Houston to learn more about the exciting lineup of over 200 events planned across the city.

Thank you for being part of what makes Houston special. I’m proud to stand with you as we keep this momentum going... the sage in bloom is like perfume...deep in the heart of Texas... Go Astros!!

Onward and upward,

Click here for larger a view of the domestic violence statistics above.

RESILIENCE COMMITTEE

Planning Today for a More Resilient Houston

At April’s Resilience Committee meeting, representatives from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension delivered a key presentation on “Supporting Resilient Communities through Data, Technology, Collaborative Workshops & Education,” highlighting how data-driven tools and community-based education are helping neighborhoods better prepare for and respond to environmental and infrastructure challenges.

Their work emphasizes equipping communities with practical resources, strengthening local partnerships, and expanding access to information that supports long-term resilience. The discussion reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement in building a stronger, more adaptable Houston.

Join us for our next meeting:

May 7th at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall

901 Bagby, 2nd Floor, Houston, TX 77002

To learn more about Resilience Committee meetings click here.

OUT AND ABOUT

Standing Together for a Safer Houston

Coming together with the community for this year’s March on Crime events served as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when residents, partners, and public safety leaders stand united. Council Member Carter attended both the Sunnyside March Against Crime and the Southwest Management District’s March on Crime Luncheon, where community members and organizations gathered with a shared focus on safety and prevention.

In Sunnyside, the event brought out a strong showing from residents, along with support from the Houston Health Department and other partners working directly within the community. At the Southwest Management District luncheon, Mayor John Whitmire was in attendance alongside the Houston Police Department and Houston Fire Department, reflecting the continued coordination behind these efforts.

March on Crime continues to be an important opportunity to strengthen relationships, share information, and remain proactive in addressing public safety across Houston.

Opening Doors to Employment and Opportunity

Council Member Carter visited the new Career Gear Houston facility, where she saw firsthand the work being done to support men on their path to employment and long-term success.

Career Gear Houston provides professional clothing, career readiness training, and ongoing support to help individuals enter the workforce with confidence. The organization’s efforts focus not only on job placement, but also on equipping participants with the tools and skills needed to sustain employment over time.

The visit offered a closer look at how community-based organizations like Career Gear Houston are helping bridge gaps and create opportunities for individuals working toward stability and self-sufficiency.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders

Students in the University of Houston’s Civic Houston Internship Program (CHIP) had the opportunity to hear from Council Member Carter during a recent visit, where she spoke with the Spring 2026 cohort about leadership, service, and her professional journey.

The CHIP program, housed within the Hobby School of Public Affairs, provides students with hands-on experience in government offices, nonprofits, and community organizations across the Houston area. With more than 1,700 students placed over the years, the program continues to play a key role in preparing the next generation of leaders through real-world exposure to public service.

During the discussion, interns engaged in conversation about career pathways and the value of staying connected to their communities, gaining insight as they prepare for a wide range of professional opportunities ahead.

Service and Sacrifice: Vietnam War Veterans Day

Community members gathered to recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day, honoring the service and sacrifice of those who served during the Vietnam War era. Observed each year on March 29, the day marks the departure of the last U.S. combat troops from Vietnam and serves as an opportunity to properly recognize those who served.

Council Member Carter joined Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia, fellow council members, veterans, and community partners—including the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Vietnam Veterans of America—for a ceremony of appreciation and reflection.

Moments like these serve as an important reminder of the responsibility to continue honoring those who served and ensuring their legacy is remembered across generations.

Advancing the Fight to Protect Our Children

The Project Protect Our Children Annual Gala brought together leaders and advocates committed to preventing child exploitation and human trafficking across our region.

Council Member Carter attended the event alongside District E Council Member Fred Flickinger, community partners, and organizations working to raise awareness around prevention, online safety, and recognizing the warning signs of exploitation. The evening also recognized individuals making a meaningful impact, including Andrea Galliano Sparks, founder of Not On My Watch Consulting, who received the Champion of Champions Award.

With support from Frost Bank, the gala highlighted the importance of continued collaboration to protect and empower youth across Houston.

The Impact of Giving in Action Across Houston

The Light the World Giving Machine Houston Reception brought together community members and organizations to celebrate the impact of collective giving across the region.

Council Member Carter attended the reception, which highlighted the success of this year’s Giving Machine initiative—an effort that allows individuals to donate directly to vetted local and global nonprofits through a simple, accessible platform. In Houston, more than 40,000 donations helped generate over $250,000 in support of organizations serving those in need.

Several local and regional nonprofits were recognized as recipients, including BEAR (Be A Resource), Interfaith of The Woodlands, Target Hunger, East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, Attack Poverty (SPLASH), Church World Service (CWS), and Tomagwa HealthCare Ministries—each playing a vital role in supporting families and strengthening communities.

Honoring Tradition, Reflection, and Community

Council Member Carter attended a Passover Seder alongside faith and community leaders from across Houston, joining in a meaningful tradition that reflects on freedom, resilience, and the strength of the Jewish community.

Hosted in partnership with several organizations, including the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, the Consulate General of Israel in Houston, Holocaust Museum Houston, the American Jewish Committee (AJC), the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), and the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center (JCC), the gathering brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds in a spirit of unity and reflection.

Events like these highlight the importance of understanding and honoring different traditions while strengthening the connections that bring Houston’s communities together.

Community Conversations Driving Public Safety

As Houston recognized March on Crime, Council Member Carter had the opportunity to speak at the Houston Police Department Northwest Division Positive Interaction Program (PIP) meeting, engaging directly with residents and officers on public safety priorities and neighborhood concerns.

Throughout the month, the At-Large 3 Team remained active across multiple PIP meetings, including the North Belt and Midwest divisions, where residents connected with law enforcement and partner agencies on issues such as illegal dumping, neighborhood upkeep, crime trends, and available resources.

At the Midwest PIP meeting, the Harris County District Attorney’s Office Domestic Violence Bureau shared information on protective orders and support services, while HPD provided updates and answered questions. At the Chief’s Citywide PIP meeting, HPD Chief J. Noe Diaz discussed efforts the department is working on to connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with services and resources.

The month concluded with Midtown Houston’s first Community Public Safety Meeting, where updates on mental health, homelessness, and outreach efforts were shared by the Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD and HPD's Homeless Outreach Team (HOT).

Strengthening Neighborhood Voices and Local Leadership

Building on efforts to strengthen neighborhood engagement across Houston, the At-Large 3 Team attended the District A Super Neighborhood and Civic Club Informational Meeting, hosted by Vice Mayor Pro Tem Council Member Amy Peck in partnership with the City of Houston Department of Neighborhoods. The meeting provided residents with guidance on forming super neighborhoods and staying connected within their communities.

That engagement continued throughout the month as the team participated in several Super Neighborhood meetings, including Houston Heights, Independence Heights, Eldridge/West Oaks, Neartown Montrose, and Super Neighborhood #22. Conversations across these meetings focused on public safety, illegal dumping, infrastructure, mobility, and neighborhood improvements, with updates from the Houston Police Department and other city partners. At the Super Neighborhood 40 meeting, residents advanced new bylaws and leadership structure with support from Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum and the Department of Neighborhoods, strengthening coordination within the community.

The team also attended the Sunnyside TIRZ Board meeting, where updates were shared on park improvements, upcoming construction, and a data-driven sidewalk strategy, along with progress on a 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan.

Celebrating Women's History Month in Houston

In recognition of Women’s History Month in March, Council Member Carter joined partners across Houston for a series of events highlighting leadership, service, and the lasting impact of women in our community.

As part of that effort, she participated in Cheniere’s 2026 International Women’s Day “Give to Gain” event, joining a fireside conversation focused on mentorship and giving back. During the discussion, she shared insights from her personal and professional journey, emphasizing the importance of paying it forward and her continued work supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and uplifting survivors of domestic violence.

Council Member Carter also attended the Houston East End Chamber’s Women in Business Luncheon, where this year’s theme, “The Power of Her Story,” brought together leaders to share perspectives on resilience, leadership, and success, reinforcing the importance of elevating women’s voices across industries.

The At-Large 3 Team joined community partners, alongside Mayor John Whitmire, for the unveiling of the Charlotte Marie Baldwin Allen statue, hosted by the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce. Known as the “Mother of Houston,” Allen played a key role in the city’s founding, helping finance its early development. The unveiling, held alongside the 100th anniversary of the Julia Ideson Building, recognized her lasting legacy in shaping Houston’s history.

Recognizing Achievement and Supporting Community

From celebrating student achievement to supporting local businesses, the At-Large 3 Team remained engaged across Houston alongside community partners.

At the Harris County Department of Education’s Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards ceremony, Council Member Carter was proud to present Certificates of Appreciation recognizing outstanding student achievements and celebrating their creativity and hard work. The team also joined the Southwest Management District’s Rise & Shine Morning Mixer, bringing together business leaders, community partners, and public officials for a morning of connection and collaboration that continues to strengthen Houston’s business community.

The Hobby Area District Business Open House brought together local businesses and residents to connect and access community resources. In partnership with District I Council Member Joaquin Martinez and Harris County Constable Precinct 2, the event also featured the Houston Fire Department and support for families and small businesses.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

Back on Track Houston: Pathways to Stability

Addressing some of Houston’s most urgent and complex challenges, Council Member Carter led her Back on Track Houston Resource Fair at the Fondé Community Center—an initiative centered on strengthening the organizations that serve individuals impacted by domestic violence, homelessness, incarceration, substance abuse, and human trafficking.

More than a resource fair, the event brought together nonprofits and community partners working on the front lines to deepen collaboration, expand access to critical services, and strengthen the support systems so many individuals rely on during their most vulnerable moments. By creating space for these organizations to connect and align their efforts, the initiative helps build a more coordinated and effective response across Houston.

With the support of partners including Starbucks, Clear Lake Baptist Church, and the Fondé Community Center, the event reflects a shared commitment to investing in those doing the work every day—advancing pathways to stability, restoring dignity, and creating real opportunities for individuals and families working to rebuild their lives.

Houston's 50 Most Influential Women of 2025

Council Member Carter was honored to be named one of Houston’s 50 Most Influential Women of 2025 by Houston Woman Magazine, a recognition that reflects a lifetime of service.

The honor reflects a career focused on strengthening communities, expanding opportunity, and advocating for those whose voices are too often unheard. From her leadership in nonprofit and philanthropic spaces to her continued work in public service, Council Member Carter has remained committed to issues impacting families across Houston, including domestic violence prevention, youth development, and community resilience.

Throughout her career, she has helped bring people together, build partnerships, and support initiatives that create lasting impact—grounded in the belief that meaningful change begins at the community level. That same approach continues to shape the At-Large 3's office today as she proudly represents residents across the city.

Student Success and the Future of Education

Council Member Carter attended the Houston ISD Foundation’s 2026 State of the District Luncheon, where education leaders, business partners, and community stakeholders gathered to hear updates on the direction of Houston’s largest school district.

During the program, Superintendent Mike Miles shared progress across the district, including academic gains among students—particularly in reading, math, and science—as well as an increase in higher-performing campuses. A key focus of this year’s address was preparing students for an evolving, technology-driven workforce, with new and expanded programs in areas like cybersecurity, healthcare, and career readiness.

Tackling Contamination to Strengthen Recycling

Understanding how Houston’s recycling system works—and how residents can help improve it—was the focus of a recent visit to FCC Environmental’s recycling facility.

Council Member Carter, joined by District I Council Member Joaquin Martinez, visited the facility to learn more about the city’s recycling process and the challenges it faces. FCC Environmental handles most of Houston’s recycling, where it was shared that more than 40% of materials brought in are considered contaminated items that cannot be recycled and disrupt the system.

The visit reinforced the importance of proper recycling practices, as contamination can damage equipment, increase costs, and slow down operations. Small actions, like knowing what belongs in the recycling bin, can make a meaningful difference citywide.

Advancing Regional Resilience and Preparedness

Building a stronger, more resilient Houston remains a key priority. Council Member Carter joined District E Council Member Fred Flickinger and regional partners at the Lake Conroe–Lake Houston Joint Reservoir Operations Study public meeting, where updates were shared on flood mitigation, reservoir operations, and long-term water management—critical to protecting communities across our region.

That focus on readiness continued at Mayor John Whitmire’s Houston Ready Roundtable, where agencies and partners coordinated on hurricane preparedness, emergency response, and support for vulnerable populations ahead of severe weather events. At the Greater Houston Port Bureau’s Annual Meeting, discussions highlighted cybersecurity threats, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and efforts to protect port operations while strengthening supply chain reliability.

Together, these efforts reflect a coordinated approach to keeping Houston prepared, protected, and moving forward.

Supporting Students and Families Across Houston

Council Member Carter, alongside Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum and on behalf of District G Council Member Mary Nan Huffman, presented a proclamation declaring March as Theatre in Our Schools Month—highlighting the vital role arts education plays in developing creativity, confidence, and collaboration in students across our city.

In a separate presentation, a proclamation was also issued recognizing Chariots for Children Van Distribution Day, honoring the work of Houston Children’s Charity and its leadership in providing wheelchair-accessible vans to families of children with disabilities. At this year’s event, 98 vans were distributed—expanding access to medical care, education, and everyday opportunities for families across Houston.

These recognitions reflect the power of partnership and the meaningful impact of organizations working every day to support Houston’s youth and families.

COUNCIL MATTERS

Throughout March, City Council took action on a number of important items, with the following serving as just a few highlights focused on public safety, infrastructure, and community support across Houston.

Approved $2M in funding for the renovation of Houston Fire Station 74, including critical facility upgrades and HVAC improvements to enhance working conditions for firefighters.
Approved amendment to Public Improvement Development Contract with Lake Houston Redevelopment Authority and TIRZ No. 10 to support continued progress on Northpark Drive expansion and improvement project in the Lake Houston area.
Approved spending authority not to exceed $545,000 for purchase of public safety radios and accessories for the Houston Fire Department, supporting emergency response communications.
Authorized submission of grant application to the Office of the Governor for FY27 Active Attacker Response Equipment Grant to support enhanced public safety preparedness and response.
Approved first amendment to agreement with the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County to continue operating the Housing Navigation Center on Jensen Dr., helping connect individuals experiencing homelessness to housing and supportive services.
Authorized grant applications to the Office of the Governor for the FY27 Internet Crimes Against Children Program and to the Houston-Galveston Area Council for the FY26/27 Solid Waste Grant Program, helping to fund the HPD Environmental Illegal Dumping Camera Program.

These highlights reflect continued progress in strengthening public safety, supporting critical infrastructure, and improving quality of life across Houston.

HOUSTON HAPPENINGS

Step into a world where legends come alive! Wander through an enchanted trail and come face-to-face with dragons, mythical creatures, and legendary beings drawn from ancient folklore at TXU Energy presents Mythical Realms.

From the mighty sea monster Kraken and Pegasus, the iconic winged horse, to Taniwha, a powerful supernatural guardian from Māori tradition, and Xolotl, a significant figure in Aztec mythology, you’ll discover a magical collection of legendary creatures from cultures around the world. Plus, don’t miss our interactive dig sites and epic photo ops to make your experience one to remember.

After your visit, spot animals that are depicted with some of these creatures’ features like our African lions, Masai giraffe, reptiles, and more.

Exhibit Dates: March 6 – Sept 7

Get Free Tax Help: AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will be offered Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Kendall Neighborhood Library in the 1st Floor Large Meeting Room. This free, in-person service provides professional tax preparation assistance from trained AARP volunteers, with a focus on adults age 50 and older and individuals with low-to-moderate income.

Open Job Lab: Job Assistance:

This event will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Tuttle Neighborhood Library. Participants are invited to drop in for one-on-one support from experienced staff to help strengthen their job search. Assistance is available for resumes, cover letters, and interview preparation. This session provides practical guidance and support.

For more Houston Public Library events in April click here.

Houston will host its first-ever Fleet Week, welcoming the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard for a week of community events, public engagement, and hands-on experiences.

What to Expect:

Public ship tours (select ships open to visitors)
Meet and interact with active-duty service members
Featured vessels including USS Kearsarge, USS Cooperstown, USS Minneapolis–St. Paul, and USCGC Edgar Culbertson
Military demonstrations and interactive exhibits
Family-friendly activities across the city

Event Locations:

Activities will take place throughout Houston, with a focus around the Port of Houston and surrounding areas.

With more than 1,000 service members visiting, Fleet Week offers a unique opportunity to experience maritime operations up close and celebrate those who serve. Learn more, view the schedule, and register for tours at www.fleetweekhouston.com.