The Pollard Press

We are excited to extend a warm welcome to the residents of St. George and Larchmont as they become part of our vibrant District J family. Join Council Member Edward Pollard, your dedicated representative, who works to ensure all voices in our district are heard and valued. The Town Hall will take place October 12, 2023, from 6 to 7 p.m., at The School at St. George Place. It will be a great opportunity to engage directly with Council Member Pollard and share your concerns and ideas for our district. Community engagement is vital for progress, and your active participation is key to shaping the future of our District. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, your presence will make a difference. Let’s make this Town Hall a success by participating as one united and strong community.

Free Pet Food, Spay and Neuter Services

The next Pet Pantry event will take place Thursday, October 5th from 9 – 10 a.m. at Sharpstown Baptist Church. Thanks to the Houston Humane Society for providing free pet food and treats. In collaboration with BARC, there will also be free spay and neuter vouchers for #DistrictJ residents. All items are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and this will be a drive-thru event.

Water Quality Questions & Answers

Houston Public Works has received questions about water quality from residents noticing changes in the taste, odor and/or color of their drinking water, as well as changes in water pressure. The changes in water pressure are related to the ongoing drought, which has increased water demand while also causing an increase in water main breaks. The increased water demand has required the use of more well water than usual, which has impacted the taste, odor and/or color of the water. Houston’s drinking water meets or exceeds all Federal and State standards and is safe. For more information, review this list of frequently asked questions about Houston water quality.

Dia de la Independencia Parade

In a spirited celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Gulfton area of District J came alive with vibrant festivities during the first Dia de la Independencia Parade. The event witnessed a grand assembly of people representing various countries, encapsulating a shared sense of cultural pride and community. Council Member Pollard served as co-grand marshal, alongside the Consul Generals of El Salvador and Mexico. Great appreciation goes out to Tammy Rodriguez, Wilfredo Velasquez, and the entire Gulfton Management District, whose tireless efforts and remarkable leadership were instrumental in bringing this celebration to fruition. Special thanks also to the Houston Police Department, Judge Isreal Garcia, FIEL, the District J staffa and all the volunteers who made this event a success.

HCU 5K Husky Hustle Fundraiser

Join Council Member Pollard, Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin and the Houston Christian University community for the HCU Husky Hustle, a 5K run and walk to raise money for scholarships. To sign up, scan the QR code below.

Latinos for Education Reception

Council Member Pollard attended the Latinos for Education State of Education reception at the Julia Ideson building downtown. The organization is founded on the notion that education provides opportunities for students to decide their destiny. Special thanks to Sandra Rodriguez, who is the organization’s advocacy director and a leader within District J.

Midwest Trunk or Treat

The Houston Police Department Midwest Division is collecting candy donations and asking for volunteers for its Trunk or Treat event coming up in October. Volunteers will be asked to decorate their cars and hand out candy. Those interested may send an email to [email protected].

Braeburn Neighborhood Meeting

The Planning Department is hosting Braeburn’s Neighborhood Resilience Planning Workshop on Thursday, November 9, from 6:30 – 8:30 pm, at the Bayland Community Center, 6400 Bissonnet St. Residents are encouraged to attend and share with your neighbors.

Braeburn Super Neighborhood #30 Meeting

Residents in Braeburn are invited to attend the upcoming Braeburn Super Neighborhood #30 meeting, which takes place on the second Thursday of every other month. The next meeting will be November 9th at 6:30 p.m. at the Bayland Community Center. To keep up to date with Braeburn Super Neighborhood #30, visit https://www.braeburn30.com/.

AfriExpo Strengthens Ties Between Houston and Africa

Council Member Pollard joined Mayor Turner and other elected officials at the AfriExpo held at the Ion. This event illustrates the city’s commitment to continue building ties between Houston and Africa in an effort to stimulate education and economics.

Mid Autumn Gala Scholarship Fundraiser

The Chinese Civic Center hosted its Mid-Autumn Festival Gala at the Westin Galleria in District J. The purpose of the event was to raise money for programs and scholarships to benefit young people.

Seniors Appreciation Luncheon

Council Member Pollard was honored to serve as the title sponsor of the Seniors Appreciation Luncheon in District J. The event shined a light on senior citizens in the community. Special thanks to Veronica Hernandez, PACT, Community Health Choice, Council Member Mike Knox, Judge Isreal Garcia and all others who helped make it a great event.

Tree Debris Removal

An elderly resident reached out to the District J office for assistance with the removal of large amounts of tree waste that he was physically unable to discard of himself. A member of the HOT Team along with District J Deputy Chief of Staff David Brizuela, helped move the items to an area where they could be collected by Solid Waste.

Gulfton Opportunity Center

Gulfton Opportunity Center offers free classes for people interested in learning specific skills necessary for trade jobs. Evening classes are available in a variety of areas. For more information see the phone number and email address below or scan the QR code on the flyer.

Nature Trail Bird Walk

The Friends of Keegans Bayou Trail and Park is hosting its Nature Trail Bird Walk, October 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. For more information, send an email to[email protected]. Visit this link to connect with the group’s Facebook page.

Visiting with the Burundian Community

One of the many cultures present in District J is Burundian community of East Africa. Council Member Pollard visited with local residents to discuss resources and services available to them and everyone in the District J community.

Centro Hispano Church

Council Member Pollard spent time at Centro Hispano Pentecostal Church located in District J at the invitation of Pastor Munoz. The council member spoke about civic work taking place in the community.

District J Projects

East Bellerive Storm Sewer Improvements

Crews have started a project to make storm sewer improvements along East Bellerive Dr. to the Southwest Freeway frontage road. The project is scheduled to be completed by mid-December.

Redding and High Star Panel Replacements

The Houston Public Works Department has completed the replacement of panels at the intersection of Redding and High Start.

Road Improvement at Sam Houston Parkway and Southwest Freeway

Several constituents informed the District J office about a large pothole causing a road hazard at the Sam Houston Parkway near the Southwest Freeway. Council Member Pollard reached out to TxDOT, and they made the repair.

District J Jobs

Looking for a new job is a job in itself. Between searching for positions online, updating your resume and preparing for interviews, job hunting takes a lot of effort. DistrictJJobs.com is a resource for Houstonians looking for work. The site provides access to dozens of companies with hundreds of jobs at various levels and in many industries. In addition to links to employment opportunities, the website now has a new “Resources” section with videos and articles containing tips to help anyone searching for a job. Resume writing, interviewing, negotiating salary and other topics are available.

Interested job seekers can also scan the QR codes posted in select METRO bus stops throughout the district. Residents all over Houston are encouraged to use this resource in their search for new employment.

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