Illegal Street Vendor Issue in District J

There is a growing problem of illegal vendors in District J that must be addressed. Dozens of unlicensed vendors line the streets leading to traffic congestion, including emergency vehicle access, public consumption of mishandled food, and an abundance of trash and unsanitary conditions. These activities not only threaten public health but also negatively impact the local environment. The District J office is working with law enforcement to educate those violating the city ordinance and to enforce local laws when vendors remain out of compliance. Council Member Edward Pollard talks about this initiative with Univision.

Harris County Appraisal Review Board

The Harris County Appraisal Review Board (ARB) is looking for new members who are interested in serving the community by ensuring fairness in property taxation. The ARB is a citizen board that hears property owner protests that cannot be resolved informally with the Harris Central Appraisal District (HCAD). Members must be available to serve all day, every weekday and several Saturdays from mid-May through October at the HCAD offices and be capable of conducting virtual hearings on their personal computers. Members are compensated per diem of $180 daily when conducting hearings, attending ARB meetings or when in training. The qualifications and application are available on the main page of the HCAD web site at www.hcad.org under the “ARB Application” tab for those interested in earning income by performing community service.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Last month, the District J office hosted a luncheon reception honoring two outstanding individuals for their community contributions to District J. Ms. Dorothy Fuentes and Officer Mendoza were received certificates of recognition during National Hispanic Heritage Month. Both recipients have done a great deal to address critical issues that help improve the quality of life for our residents. Also, shout out to Officer Michael for receiving a special recognition from our office for his leadership with the District J Patrol.

Gulfton Tree Planting

The District J staff joined dozens of volunteers at the Gulfton Tree Planting event near the area of Renwick and Westpark. Not only do the new trees help beautify the neighborhood, but they also increase oxygen, provide shade and improve the local environment. A big thank you goes out to Trees for Houston, the Gulfton Management District, Gulfton Super Neighborhood, Connect Community, Madres Del Parque and Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones and all the volunteers.

10,000 Black Men Rally

Council Member Edward Pollard joined the 10,000 Black Men Rally at City Hall in a show of solidarity and unity and to address important issues specific to Black Men. Shout out to all the elected officials, community leaders and professional organizations that came together to make this historic event happen.

Evolve Houston Grant Opportunity

Evolve Houston is now accepting grant applications for a limited time. Whether you're a nonprofit, small business, or individual, this is your chance to turn your vision into reality and help expand access to electric transportation in underserved communities. There’s no limit to how many applications you can submit. Apply today at evolvehouston.org/microgrants, and don’t forget to share this incredible opportunity with others. Let’s spread the word and make mobility more inclusive.

Tech Fest Live Expo

The District J office is collaborating on the Tech Fest Live Expo, which will be a free interactive learning experience for the general public to explore all the latest tech fields and opportunities right here in the Houston area. As a global city, Houston is well-positioned to become a Smart City, but we need the creativity and ingenuity of the community. Come out November 8th from 8 am to 5 pm to the UH Tech Bridge Campus to participate. To learn more, please visit techfestlive.com.

Angola Independence Day

This year marks the 49th anniversary of the Republic of Angola the city of Houston. On November 11, 1975, Angola began a journey of resilience, growth and progress. The people of this nation have shown incredible strength and determination to build a brighter future for their country. We recognize the important work of the Consulate and the contributions of the Angolan community to the city of Houston. We are grateful for the partnership, and we look forward to many more years of collaboration and friendship. Council Member Pollard joined Council Member Tiffany Thomas in presenting a proclamation to Her Excellence Ana Nascimento.

Free College Scholarship Help

The Houston Public Library is hosing a free session to help families identify scholarship money for college students. The virtual event is for anyone interested and will take place November 13th at 5:30 p.m. Scan the QR below to register.

Pet Pantry and Vaccine Event in District J

Another Pet Pantry event in District J is in the books. Houston Humane Society staff and volunteers serviced100 pets by providing free pet food and vaccination services to those in need. Special thanks to Sharpstown Baptist Church for providing the location. Stay tuned to this newsletter for future Pet Pantry event dates.

District J Projects

Concrete Panel Replacement

The Citywide Concrete Panel Replacement Project is ongoing along Gessner Rd. from Bissonnet St. to Braeswood Blvd. The project is expected to be completed by the end of November.

Supplemental Maintenance Team

The Supplemental Maintenance Team is designed to supplement the essential services provided by the city, focusing on maintaining and beautifying Houston's medians, right of ways, esplanades, accessible ditches and litter abatement on city property. District J residents can request this service by sending an email to our office at DistrictJ@houstontx.gov. Be sure to add "SMT Request" in the subject line. Please include details of the request such as the location's address and a picture if possible.

The District J Supplemental Maintenance Team cleared illegally dumped items from streets within District J.

District J Patrol is a three-pronged approach to public safety bridging the gap between the law enforcement officers in District J and the communities they serve. Sponsored by the District J office, this initiative includes community patrolling by Houston Police Department’s Differential Response Team (DRT), the use of five Polaris vehicles and the District J Patrol Task Force. Residents may report small neighborhood violations and infringements, such as panhandling, loitering, overgrown lots, graffiti, homeless encampments and other public nuisances. To file a report, visit the online portal at www.DistrictJPatrol.com. 

To learn more about our modern approach to community policing, or to file a report regarding a quality of life issue, please visit www.districtjpatrol.com. To retrieve data, research policy, or to file a complaint online, visit houstontx.gov/policetransparency.

District J Office Staff

The District J office staff is here to serve you.

David "Alex" Brizuela, Deputy Chief of Staff

Ana "Francis" Ellis, District Coordinator

Council Member Edward Pollard

Misty Starks, Director of Communications

Paul Young, Chief of Staff