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.

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.

On Tuesday, December 16th, Council Member Flickinger attended the State & Federal Outlook Luncheon hosted by Partnership Lake Houston at the Humble Civic Center. As the chamber of commerce serving Kingwood and the surrounding communities, Partnership Lake Houston plays a vital role in advocating for local businesses and community interests. The luncheon provided a valuable opportunity to connect with regional partners and hear updates from State Representative Charles Cunningham on the most recent legislative session, as well as key developments impacting the state and region.

The event was well attended by numerous elected officials, along with representatives from the San Jacinto River Authority and Houston Airports, fostering meaningful dialogue across agencies and jurisdictions.

Thank you to Partnership Lake Houston for convening business leaders, public officials, and community partners to discuss the issues shaping Houston and the surrounding area.

On Tuesday, December 2nd, District E attended the Securing Houston’s Future as Space City forum, which convened industry, education, and regional leaders to discuss Houston’s growing leadership in the commercial space economy.

The panel, featuring Dr. Sallie Kay Janes of San Jacinto College, Megan Ortiz of Axiom Space, and moderator Steve Clarke of the Greater Houston Partnership, highlighted Houston’s unique advantage in leveraging its strong energy, medical, and industrial workforce to support the rapidly expanding aerospace sector. Key themes included the critical importance of retaining local talent, strengthening industry, education collaboration, and expanding training pathways that emphasize transferable skills. Panelists underscored that Houston is not only Mission Control but is also on a clear trajectory to become a national leader in space-related manufacturing and workforce development for the next era of space exploration and commercialization.

On Saturday, December 13th, Council Member Flickinger, alongside Council Members Castillo and Martinez, proudly partnered with the Houston Fire Department to host a Christmas Toy Giveaway for families in our community. The event brought neighbors together to celebrate the holiday season and share moments of joy and generosity with children and families.

We were also delighted to welcome the Chavez High School Mariachi Band, whose lively and festive performance filled the event with music, cheer, and holiday spirit. Their presence added a special cultural touch that made the celebration even more memorable.

A heartfelt thank you to the Houston Fire Department, our fellow council members, dedicated volunteers, and Houston Community College for generously allowing us to host this event at their Southeast Campus. We also extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed their time and support to make this event possible. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and help spread warmth and joy during this special time of year.

On Friday, December 5th, Council Member Flickinger and staff presented a proclamation from the City of Houston to National Technical Institute to celebrate the grand opening of its second Houston campus in the South Belt/Ellington area.

National Technical Institute is a state-approved trade school that provides fast-track, hands-on training in high-demand skilled trades such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce. By offering practical, industry-aligned programs, NTI helps meet the needs of local employers while creating accessible pathways to well-paying careers for Houston residents.

The expansion of NTI’s footprint in Southeast Houston directly supports the region’s workforce development efforts by helping address the ongoing shortage of skilled labor, reducing project delays for contractors, and strengthening Houston’s economy through a reliable pipeline of trained, job-ready workers.

On Wednesday, December 10th, Council Member Flickinger and District E staff joined Captain Small and the Houston Police Department’s Clear Lake Division for a hands-on visit highlighting training and equipment that support officer readiness and public safety. During the visit, staff observed the division’s existing Virtual Reality training system, which allows officers to work through realistic, high-pressure scenarios in a controlled environment, including traffic stops that escalate unexpectedly, active shooter situations, clearing buildings, and responding to everyday calls for service. This immersive training tool helps officers sharpen decision-making skills, improve situational awareness, and reinforce best practices before encountering similar situations in the field.

The visit also included a demonstration of the division’s new Polaris vehicle funded by District E. The Polaris will enhance HPD Clear Lake’s ability to patrol trails, parks, and other hard-to-reach areas, improving response capabilities and visibility while supporting proactive policing efforts. Together, the training and new equipment underscore District E’s continued commitment to investing in resources that strengthen public safety, support law enforcement, and ensure officers have the tools they need to effectively serve the community.

On Wednesday, December 3rd, the District E team and their families came together for a festive evening at Houston Zoo Lights, a beloved office tradition. The night was filled with sparkling light displays, holiday cheer, and meaningful moments as team members enjoyed time together and embraced the spirit of the season.

The Houston Zoo is one of the city’s most treasured cultural institutions, known for its commitment to wildlife conservation, education, and family-friendly experiences. The zoo provides engaging programs and attractions year-round that bring the community together while promoting environmental awareness. Events like Zoo Lights highlight the zoo’s mission to inspire care for animals and the natural world, making it a beloved destination for visitors of all ages.

On Monday, December 15th, District E staff had the honor of attending Coffee with a Cop, hosted at the Hampton Inn in partnership with the North Channel Chamber of Commerce. This event provided a welcoming space for community members to connect with local law enforcement, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversations.

Our office also invited the Houston Police Department’s Auto Theft Division, who shared valuable information and resources to help residents protect their vehicles and stay informed. We appreciate the Hampton Inn, the North Channel Chamber of Commerce, and our law enforcement partners for helping strengthen community relationships and support public safety.

On Tuesday, December 9th, Council Member Flickinger attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Kelsey-Seybold Clinic – Lake Houston Campus, alongside clinic leadership and members of the local business community. The event marked an important milestone in expanding access to high-quality healthcare in the Lake Houston area.

The Lake Houston Campus now offers comprehensive specialty care for adults and is conveniently located just steps from the Summer Creek Clinic, with easy access from Beltway 8. Patients have access to on-site services and specialties including Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, and Sports Medicine, with capacity for up to 51 providers. Plans are underway to expand services in Cardiology, Dermatology, Otolaryngology (ENT), and Urology, further enhancing care options for the community.

On Tuesday, December 16th, Council Member Flickinger attended a meeting hosted by the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership (BAHEP) welcoming an international delegation from Finland comprised of representatives from 11 leading Finnish companies specializing in aerospace, defense, and digital innovation, along with leaders from Business Finland under the Finnish Ministry of Employment and the Economy.

The delegation met with U.S. aerospace companies, regional economic development partners, a representative from Senator Cornyn’s office, and local leadership to share company capabilities and participate in a roundtable discussion. The conversation focused on exchanging perspectives, addressing market entry challenges, sharing best practices, exploring collaboration opportunities, identifying potential projects, and strengthening U.S.–Finnish business ties in emerging and critical technologies as Finland continues to grow its role as a trusted NATO partner.

On Tuesday, December 2nd, District E staff attended the joint press conference with FIFA and Airbnb to celebrate a major community investment as Houston prepares to host the FIFA World Cup 26™. At the event, Airbnb announced it will contribute over $1 million through its Host City Impact Program to support the FIFA World Cup 26™ Houston Host Committee and Impact Houston 26 legacy initiatives.

This historic investment, the largest Airbnb has ever made in Houston will help fund two transformative projects:

· Green Corridor: a 14-mile sustainable transit and green infrastructure loop connecting key World Cup venues such as the FIFA Fan Festival in East Downtown and NRG Stadium, while enhancing walkability, shaded paths, water refill stations, native plantings, and sustainability features for residents and visitors alike.

· Grow the Game: a community-centered initiative aimed at expanding access to soccer across the city with field renovations, youth clinics, free or low-cost programming, and coach/referee development opportunities.

These efforts are designed to ensure that the benefits of hosting the World Cup extend long past the final match, making a lasting impact on Houston’s neighborhoods and young athletes.

Throughout December, Council Member Flickinger and District E staff participated in several holiday gatherings including South Belt–Ellington Chamber of Commerce, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership and Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Open Houses.

These festive events offered meaningful networking opportunities, holiday cheer, and time to reflect on the Clear Lake area’s successes in 2025, while reinforcing the strong sense of collaboration and community that will help drive continued progress and growth in 2026.

Updated public safety data continues to show encouraging progress across District E. Year-to-date statistics through November 2025 reflect a 22.9% reduction in violent crime compared to the same period in 2024, with 215 fewer incidents. Non-violent crime is also trending downward with a 14.6% decrease. Declines in major categories such as robbery, aggravated assault, auto theft, and burglary demonstrate that expanded patrol efforts and targeted enforcement are making a real difference in our communities.

Council Member Flickinger has continued his commitment to the HPD Divisions across District E using Council District Service Funds for overtime patrol programs, crime suppression operations, and additional resources. Strong collaboration with HPD’s Kingwood, Clear Lake, East Side, and Northeast Side divisions remains essential to maintaining this momentum.

Public safety is a shared responsibility. Every resident should stay engaged and report incidents when they occur. If you have a non-life-threatening concern, please call the City of Houston Non-Emergency number at (713) 884-3131. In any emergency or life-threatening situation, always call 9-1-1 immediately. Consider attending a monthly Positive Interaction Program (PIP) meeting in your area (see the flyer at the bottom of this newsletter for more information).

Council Member Fred Flickinger would like to make Kingwood area residents aware that Houston Public Works began improvements on Mills Branch Dr. on Monday, December 8th. The scope of work includes mill and asphalt overlay improvements along Mills Branch Dr. from the City Limit to Northpark Dr. The estimated cost of the project is $1.2 million and is funded through Dedicated Drainage and Street Renewal Capital Fund.

Crews will be mobilized on-site beginning Monday, December 8th, and the project is anticipated to be completed by Saturday, January 17, 2026, weather permitting. Construction activities are expected to take 40 days, Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., weekends vary. There are no planned impacts or interruptions to water or sewer service.

As a result of the construction activities, please be aware of flagmen and orange traffic cones that will be in place on-site to help with traffic flow through the construction zone, as the project will include temporary lane closures. As part of the project scope, increased traffic/commute times are predicted to occur during construction. Please also be aware that increased noise levels may occur during this time due to the presence of construction equipment and vehicles in the area.

For more information, please contact the District E office at (832)393-3008 or via email at districte@houstontx.gov. 

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Billy Ray has a gentle, easygoing nature with a playful side. He enjoys interacting with other dogs and showing off friendly play bows. He keeps his kennel clean and may already be potty trained, making him a wonderful, well-mannered companion.

If you’re looking for a sweet, laid-back dog who will bring steady companionship and joy to your home, Billy Ray could be just the dog you’ve been waiting for. Click here to learn more about adopting this great boy!

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.

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!

January 08 – HPD Northeast PIP

January 10 – Median Madness Round 5

January 12 – HPD Clear Lake PIP

January 14 – KSA Public Safety Committee Meeting

January 19 – Martin Luther King Jr Day - City Holiday

January 20 – HPD Kingwood PIP

January 21 – Kingwood SNC

January 26 – HPD Eastside PIP

January 31 – City of Houston's 40th Annual Arbor Day Celebration at Greenwood Park