The Pollard Press

Federal Funding for Gulfton Improvements

Houston’s Gulfton and Kashmere Gardens neighborhoods are set to see major improvements in sidewalk, drainage, and shade, thanks to a substantial $43.4 million federal investment aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility. The projects will address issues of infrastructure quality through sidewalk repairs, improved drainage and tree planting. Once the final designs are complete, the projects will get underway, with a completion timeframe of 2026. Back in 2022, Council Member Pollard sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in support of the Reconnecting Communities initiative. Click here to read that letter.

Past-Due Relocation Assistance

Did you live in the Monticello Square, Spring Village, Appian Way, or Biscayne Apartments? Were you displaced due to the City of Houston disaster recovery buyout program? You may be owed past-due relocation assistance!

The Uniform Relocation Act (URA) is a federal law that mandates relocation assistance for tenants being displaced by federally funded buyout programs. Relocation assistance could include money for moving expenses and rent increases. Even if you have already found a new place to live, you may qualify for this assistance.

Who is Potentially Eligible?

Former residents of four apartment complexes bought by the City of Houston’s Housing and Community Development Department with federal disaster recovery grant funding may be eligible for past due moving and relocation assistance. The Texas General Land Office is currently seeking former tenants of Appian Way Apartments, Spring Village Apartments, Biscayne At City View Apartments, and Monticello Square Apartments who were required to leave after the buyout dates listed below:

Monticello Square Apartments
5312 Clarewood Drive, Houston 77081
Buyout date: August 24, 2021

Appian Way Apartments
3200 N. Macgregor Way, Houston 77004
Buyout date: May 5, 2021

Spring Village Apartments
11810 Chimney Rock Road, Houston 77035
Buyout date: June 2, 2021

Biscayne At City View Apartments
17030 & 17050 Imperial Valley Drive, Houston 77060
Buyout date: Nov. 17, 2021

The Texas GLO has a team of URA counselors available to answer your questions and help determine if you are owned URA assistance from the Houston HCDD Buyout Program.

Gulfton Cart Pilot Program

Shopping carts from nearby stores and supermarkets are frequently found discarded in public spaces such as sidewalks, streets, and parks around Gulfton. The phenomenon of shopping cart abandonment results in an accumulation of carts that not only obstruct pedestrian pathways but also diminish the overall aesthetics of the area, making it less appealing for both residents and visitors. The reasons behind cart abandonment in Gulfton are multifaceted.

To help address this issue, Council Member Pollard is partnering with Walmart, Madres del Parque, and the Gulfton Super Neighborhood Council to launch a pilot program at The Grove Apartments, where collapsible carts will be available for residents to borrow when needed. By effectively addressing the root causes of shopping cart abandonment in the Gulfton neighborhood and implementing sustainable solutions, we can improve the overall quality of life for residents, create a cleaner and safer environment, and foster a sense of pride and investment in the community. Special thanks to Sandra Rodriguez, Maria Hernandez and Juanita Herrera for their leadership on this project.

H-Town Rewards Program

The H-Town Rewards Program is a dynamic six-month campaign designed to boost the local economy and support the growth of small businesses within Houston, particularly those located in historically underserved areas. This initiative encourages residents to shop and dine locally, offering rewards for every dollar spent at participating small businesses throughout the city. For every “H-Town Point” collected—equivalent to one dollar—shoppers can redeem these points for discounts and specials on future purchases at a variety of local establishments.

The H-Town Rewards mobile app is available to download by Houston area residents and businesses on Apple’s App Store and on Android’s Google Play. Users only need to search for “H-Town Rewards”. The app is FREE of charge to both users, who would like to collect rewards, and business owners, who would like to promote their businesses on the app.

Only businesses located in one of the six targeted Houston-area communities are eligible to be Redeeming Businesses.

• Gulfton (Zip Codes 77056, 77057, 77074, 77081)
• Acres Home (Zip Codes 77088, 77091)
• Alief-Westwood (Zip Codes 77036, 77072, 77074, 77083, 77099, 77498)
• Fort-Bend Houston (Zip Codes 77053, 77085, 77489)
• Kashmere Gardens (Zip Codes 77009, 77026, 77028)
• Second Ward (Zip Codes 77003, 77011)

For more information about the program, visit the H-Town Rewards website. Join us in fostering a thriving community by supporting local merchants and enjoying the benefits of the H-Town Rewards Program.

Bissonnet St. Community Meeting

The public is invited to attend a community meeting about the Bissonnet St. Safe Streets Project. The meeting will take place Thursday, April 4 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Bayland Community Center – 6400 Bissonnet St. For more information about the Bissonnet St. project, visitwww.engagehouston.org/bissonnet-safe-streets or scan the QR code below.

Summer Jobs for Youth with the City of Houston

The City of Houston’s Human Resources Department has launched the 2024 Summer Jobs Program. This unique initiative provides an invaluable 8-week “learning and earning” experience for approximately 500 youth, ages 16 – 24. The Summer Jobs Program will run from June 10^th – August 1^st. The fully funded program provides an excellent opportunity to expose young people to the world of municipal operations and careers.

Houston Parks and Recreation Dept. Hiring

Summer Season is fast approaching and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) is offering excellent summer job opportunities for energetic and motivated candidates to join the HPARD team. Candidates are offered training, competitive pay, and an opportunity to build workforce skills to advance your future. For more information scan the QR code below or call 832.395.7295.

Feed the Soul Survey Needs Culinary Business Owners

During the Covid-19 pandemic, many local restaurants had to shut their doors either temporarily or permanently. Years later, some restaurants that survived are still facing challenges in this new post-pandemic society. The Feed the Soul Foundation and the University of Houston have partnered to examine the ongoing issues restaurants face.

Project organizers are seeking to connect with culinary business owners from all backgrounds to conduct interviews as a way of understanding experiences that are pivotal in shaping the industry. Each interviewee will receive a $25 gift card. Visit this link to sign up to participate.

Alief International Parade and Taste of Alief Event

The Alief International Parade and Taste of Alief are vibrant celebrations that highlight the rich cultural diversity of our community. It is an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to come together and experience the unique flavors, sights, and sounds that make Alief such a special place to live and work.

Female Entrepreneurship Day

Council Member Pollard had the pleasure of hosting dozens of women at City Call for Female Entrepreneurship Day during Women’s History Month. Several business owners shared their stories of their entrepreneurial journey and empowered others with their testimonies. Council Member Pollard gave remarks and presented some of the participants with Certificates of Recognition. Special thanks to Tiara Johnson, GirlBoss Suites, J. Mulan, and Ja’Leah Davis for their leadership and coordination.

March on Crime

Solidarity was on full display during the annual March on Crime event. Community leaders, law enforcement officers and residents walked together down Gulfton St. in a show of unity. Big shout out out to Tammy Rodriguez and the entire Gulfton Management District board for all their leadership. Thank you to HPD, Chief Pena and HFD, Veronica Hernandez, Council Members Ramirez and Davis, Pct. 4 Judge Israel Garcia’s office, Indus Management, Napoleon Square, Braeburn MD, Lions Club, Bridging the Digital Divide, the District J office staff, and all others who helped make this event a success.

Vietnam Veterans Appreciation Day Reflection Ceremony

In commemoration of National Vietnam Veterans Appreciation Day, Council Member Edward Pollard’s office held a reflective ceremony honoring the brave men and women who served in the Vietnam War. This special event was dedicated to the more than 2.7 million members of the U.S. Armed Forces who valiantly served during the Vietnam War. Veterans, their family members and local leaders were in attendance to share memories and stories of those who served. The event began with a performance of the National Anthem, followed by short remarks from several speakers, and ended with a rendition of TAPS. Attendees will also enjoy refreshments afterward. Special thanks to Khambrel Marshall, Michael Hoa, Ralph Cooper, Director Robert Dembo and his office, Welcome Wilson Jr. and the TIRZ 20 Board, Council Member Willie Davis, State Rep. Jarvis Johnson, former Council Member Jack Christie, the Astros Foundation volunteers, HPD, the District J staff and everyone who helped make this event a success. Visit this link to watch the ceremony in its entirety.

Bissonnet St. Transformation

For decades, Bissonnet Street, between US59 and Beltway 8, had a poor reputation, but thanks to the hard work and collaboration of many people and agencies, the area has completely changed for the better. Special thanks to Commissioner Lesley Briones and her entire team for inviting Council Member Pollard to speak at a press conference regarding additional safety measures being implemented on that corridor. Thanks also to the Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex Tatum, Rep. Alma Allen, Rep. Ann Johnson, Chief Bashir, Commander Hardy, Superintendent Mays, Kenneth Li and the Southwest Management District, and all the residents and business owners who participated in the event and continue to partner with the District J office to ensure the Alief/Westwood area experiences a better quality of life.

District J Supports Nonprofits Helping Kids

This school year, the District J office has allocated over $50,000 to nonprofit organizations that provide after school programs in the district. All of the organizations that continuously provide services and support for local youth are greatly appreciated. A big thanks to CASE for Kids within the Harris County Department of Education for your leadership and coordination.

Sharpstown Pet Pantry

Through a collaborative effort between the District J office, the Houston Humane Society, BARC Animal Shelter & Adoptions and the Greater Good Charities, we held a stellar Pet Pantry event in March in Sharpstown. Approximately 12,800 meals were distributed, and pet owners got the opportunity to take advantage of free spay and neuter services. We thank all of our partners for this initiative because so many residents are feeling the impact of rising costs for essential pet supplies, such as food. Stay connected with this newsletter for future Pet Pantry events.

Keegans Bayou Nature Meet-Up

The Friends of Keegans Bayou and Neighborhoods to Trails SW invite the public to attend an upcoming nature outing. The event promises to offer the opportunity to get out and join others with similar interests in birds, flowers and socializing. The meet-up will include bike rides, a bird walk, a Zumba class and more.

For more information, visit https://neighborhoodstotrails.org. Special thanks to community partner Memorial Hermann Southwest.

District J Projects

Skyline Dr. Sidewalk

Houston Public Works has completed a project to install new sidewalks where none existed, repair driveways in poor condition and make improvements to storm sewer system along Skyline Dr.

Braeburn Concrete Panels

Work has begun on a project to replace concrete panels in the Braeburn area between Hwy. 59 and S. Gessner. The work began in mid-March and is expected to be complete by June 28.

S. Course Dr. Sidewalk

Construction is scheduled to start on a project to install a new sidewalk on the west side of South Course Dr. between Spice Ln. and the ditch. The project will begin on April 8 and is scheduled to take 20 days.

The District J HOT Team removed bags of discarded trash illegally dumped in the Gulfton area.

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.