The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
Bay Area Edition VOLUME 6, ISSUE 6 FEB. 128, 2024
2024 Annual Community Guide
CCISD’s 2017 bond comes in $38M under budget
Students check out books at Campbell Elementary School. Opened in 2019, the school is Clear Creek ISD’s 27th elementary campus and was built as part of its 2017 bond.
JAMES T. NORMANCOMMUNITY IMPACT
As district wraps up $487M 2017 bond, ocials roll over savings to help 2023’s $302M bond
or detractors, as some residents within the district, such as CCISD resident Phil Ratisseau, felt many of the projects were more costly than necessary. “The district’s standards are higher than others,” Ratisseau said. “They build Taj Mahals, not just education facilities.”
The 2017 bond netted the district a new school, and a few others were either rebuilt completely or renovated substantially. Meanwhile, despite projects from the bond taking place during the COVID-19 pandemic amid economic challenges, documents show the bond came in under budget by roughly $38 million and on time. However, the bond was not without its doubters
BY JAMES T. NORMAN
Just a few months before voters gave Clear Creek ISD the go-ahead on a new $302 million bond in November aimed at improving and upgrading a number of district facilities, ocials wrapped up another bond package that, all told, totaled more than $400 million dating back to 2017.
CONTINUED ON 12
Also in this issue
Impacts: Shake Shack opens in Webster (Page 6)
Transportation: Hwy. 146 wraps up construction (Page 11)
Election: See who’s running in the March primaries (Page 17)
Annual Community Guide: LeagueCity-area snapshot (Page 20)
ACCESS Instant
$20K Up to in builder incentives*
Purchase a move-in ready home in Lago Mar between NOW and March 31 and get access to all the fun we have to offer before you close on your new home!* Enjoy Amenities NOW Move in later! • Dive into Texas’ Largest Crystal Clear Lagoon • Relax on White Sand Beaches with Cabanas • Indulge at on-site Blue Lagoon Bar & Grill • Experience Fun Watersports (Paddleboards & Kayaks) • Enjoy our Splash Pad, Playground & Clubhouse
New Homes High $200s-$500s LagoMar in TexasCity.com
The Lago Mar Crystal Lagoon operating schedule and availability is subject to change without notice. The “Access Now” pass is only available on homes that a buyer has signed a new home purchase agreement with a home builder in Lago Mar between now and 3/31/24. Limit one “Access Now” pass per new home purchase agreement. Buyers must agree to and sign the rules and regulations for the Lago Mar Beach Club before access will be granted. The “Access Now” pass is void if new home purchase agreement is cancelled for any reason. The “Access Now” pass can be terminated at any time by the Crystal Clear Lagoon Operator for not meeting Lago Mar Beach Club rules and regulations. Additional restrictions may apply. Please visit Lago Mar clubhouse center for full details. Restrictions apply. See your new home sales consultant for further details on how to qualify for both of these offers. This offer ends 3/31/24. Up to $20K in builder incentives varies for each builder and is subject to change without notice. See builder representative for more details on incentives currently being offered and how to qualify for them. Offers subject to change without notice. 1.24 *
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
At Kelsey-Seybold, our OB/GYNs, pediatricians, and after-hours nurses are not only connected to you – they’re connected to each other. It’s a collaborative approach that helps ensure you and your baby get world-class care. And, as every new parent quickly discovers, it’s good to have connections. Connected to you from pregnancy to pediatrics.
Bay Area Campus 1010 S. Ponds Dr. Webster, TX 77598
Pasadena Clinic 5001 E. Sam Houston Pkwy. S. Pasadena, TX 77505
South Shore Harbour Clinic 3625 E League City Pkwy. League City, TX 77573
24/7 Appointment Scheduling: 713-442-0000
1287975712
3
BAY AREA EDITION
Be a healthier you with our weight loss programs. Memorial Hermann NewStart Surgical and Medical Weight Loss ® programs are designed around your specific needs. Patients with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and infertility have seen successful results from our programs. With our Care Concierge Program, our staff of experienced professionals will help guide you through the entire process and provide the support you need at no additional cost. memorialhermann.org/newstart
Advancing health. Personalizing care.
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity. About Community Impact
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Shaheryar Khan Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning Jessica Shorten Lizzy Spangler Haley Velasco Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Jatziri Garcia Ellen Jackson Matt Mills Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White
Papar Faircloth General Manager pfaircloth@ communityimpact.com
Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt
James T. Norman Editor jnorman@ communityimpact.com
Jason Culpepper Publisher jculpepper@ communityimpact.com
Contact us
Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron
16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases baynews@communityimpact.com Advertising bayads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising
Proudly printed by
communityimpact.com @communityimpactnews
linkedin.com/company/communityimpact
© 2024 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.
YOUR KITCHEN SOLUTION. Transforming Kitchens & Bathrooms for over 10 years.
1500 Marina Bay Dr Bld 113 suite D Clear Lake Shores, TX 77565 MidtownCabinetry.com • 281-947-2120
5
BAY AREA EDITION
Impacts
business’s website. • Soft opened in January • 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston • www.fatcatcreamery.com
R T
4
5
35
ARMAND BAYOU NATURE CENTER
45
6
11
5 Velvet Taco The new location at Hobby Airport entered a soft opening in late January, officials with Houston Airports said in an email. Describing itself as a “one-of-a-kind” taco concept, the business serves food in a “unique and funky fast-casual setting,” according to its website. • Soft opened in January • 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston • www.velvettaco.com 6 Dunkin’ Donuts The coffee and donut shop opened a location in Hobby Airport, and entered a soft opening in late January, officials with Houston Airports said in an email. Dunkin’ is known for serving both doughnuts and coffee. • Soft opened in January • 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston • www.dunkindonuts.com
Seabrook
3
2351
CLEAR LAKE
MAIN ST.
146
GALVESTON BAY
2 12 15
BAYBROOK MALL DR.
9
14
Nassau Bay
518
Webster
8
10A
96
SOUTH SHORE BLVD.
528
3
7
10B
646
13
45
1
League City
Coming soon
528
MAP NOT TO SCALE TM; © 2024 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
N
7 Altitude Trampoline Park The business is coming to Webster and is an entertainment center for families and offers trampolines with a number of activities, including basketball and dodgeball, according to its website. Its newest location in Webster will be the fourth one opened in the Greater Houston area. • Opening TBD • 20810 Gulf Freeway, Webster • www.altitudetrampolinepark.com 8 BoomerJacks Grill & Bar The business’s newest Webster location is celebrating its opening by offering free meals for first responders, swag and gift cards for those who sign up for BoomerJack’s MVP Rewards Program and check in the first week of opening. • Soft opening the first week of February • 20951 Gulf Freeway, Webster • www.boomerjacks.com
• 19325 Gulf Freeway, Ste. 110, Webster • www.wateroakcafeandbakery.com
Now open
517
1 Scotty’s Sports Grille The business is a fast-casual neighborhood bar and restaurant in Webster and offers scratch-made American food, including homemade barbecue, specialty burgers, and a unique tater tot nachos entrée. • Opened Oct. 20 • 1416 FM 528 Road, Ste. D, Webster • www.scottyspubhouston.com 2 Water Oak Cafe & Bakery The bakery opened its doors in the southern suburb of Webster just before Thanksgiving and offers a variety of desserts—including peach crumb pie, banana nut bread and carrot cake. • Opened Nov. 20
3 Seabrook Cheese Co. The wine and specialty cheese shop, which also has a small wine and cheese bar inside, opened a new location in Seabrook. The business’s specialty cheeses include Truffle Kunik, OG Kristal and more, business owner Russell Hatfield said. • Opened Dec. 20 • 1406 Main St., Seabrook • www.seabrookcheeseco.com 4 Fat Cat Creamery Officials with Houston Airports said in an email the business went into a soft opening in late January. Serving a variety of ice creams, the business is set up inside several other businesses around Houston, and has one brick-and-mortar store, according to the
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Now open
Now open
9 McIntyre’s Webster The business opened as the newest and largest sports bar and patio from the brand in early December. The location features a 600-foot LED screen on the lawn of its dog-friendly patio; indoor video walls; and a full-service bar offering more than 50 beers, wine and specialty cocktails. • Opened Dec. 8
12 Shake Shack Burger chain Shake Shack, which also offers fries, shakes and hot dogs, opened in the newly constructed Shops at Baybrook. The location is 3,000 square feet and includes a drive-thru. Shake Shack has more than 500 locations across the world, and more than 300 larger space. A holistic spa area, infrared sauna therapy, napping rooms and skin care options will also be added. • Relocating in February • 1001 Pineloch Drive, Ste. 800, Houston • www.hivewomenswellness.com 13 the shard yard The arts studio closed its location in Friendswood and debuted at a new space in Webster in mid-October. The DIY studio lets guests from beginner- to professional- level experience use crushed or reclaimed pieces of
across the United States, according to a Dec. 12 news release from the company. • Opened Dec. 21 • 19677 Gulf Freeway, Webster • www.shakeshack.com
• 806 E. NASA Parkway, Webster • www.mcintyresusa.com/webster
10 Dutch Bros Coffee The drink shop is planning to open a new location in Webster in February, and a second League City location in March, a spokesperson said in an email. Dutch Bros serves various types of drinks, including coffee, cocoa, tea, lemonade and seasonal drinks, according to its website.
from its old location, officials with the store said Dec. 4. The new space is 20,000 square feet. The business specializes in bike, ski and snowboarding gear, according
to the company’s website. • Relocated in November • 1301 W. Bay Area Blvd., Webster • www.sunandski.com
• Opening early February and March • A 20710 Gulf Freeway, Webster • B 6645 South Shore Blvd., League City • www.dutchbros.com
In the news
15 Cafe Dew The cafe and “doughnuttery” in Webster was purchased Oct. 9 by Matt and Noah Guinon, who are brothers-in- law to the previous owners. The cafe serves breakfast all day and offers lunch from 11 a.m. until closing time. • 105 W. Bay Area Blvd., Webster • www.thecafedew.com
glass to create original art pieces. • 315C Odyssey Drive, Webster • www.theshardyard.com
Relocations
11 The Hive Women’s Wellness The business is relocating in 2024, Business Manager Kelly Dando said in an email. The business is moving from a location in the Bay Area and is opening a new,
14 Sun & Ski Sports The shop in Webster moved a couple spaces down
The primary elections are coming. Now is the time to register, research, plan and vote! PUBLIC EDUCATION IS ALWAYS ON THE BALLOT
Ad paid by Raise Your Hand Texas
RaiseYourHandTexas.org/vote
7
BAY AREA EDITION
14650 OLD Galveston Rd Webster, TX 77598
WEBSTER NEW LOCATION!
LEARN MORE TODAY Odyssey Academy is a free, public charter school district with over 1,500 students at three locations across the greater Galveston County area. We have worked to help each one of our students find their passion and path to success for 25 years! We are excited to announce that enrollment is officially open for our newest location at Pineloch and Hwy 3 in Webster, opening this fall for Pre-K through 8th grade. OPEN ENROLLMENT
FREE PUBLIC EDUCATION WITH A PRIVATE SCHOOL FEEL
Serves Pre-Kindergarten through 8th Grade
Proud to be a FranklinCovey Leader in Me Lighthouse School
Provides outstanding and competitive STEAM curriculum
Offers an innovative Monday – Thursday 4-day instructional week
CONTACT US: Email: oaw@odyssey-academy.com Phone: 281-326-4555 Website: odyssey-academy.com/webster
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY JAMES T. NORMAN
Clear Creek ISD receives ‘A’ grade for finances Clear Creek ISD received a rating of 90 out of 100 for its finances through the state of Texas based on its fiscal year 2021-22 data, earning a “superior achievement,” officials said. The overview The rating was part of the state’s Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas, or FIRST. Of the 20 indicators, eight are either pass or fail. The remainder are scored and calculated based on how well the district meets that indicator’s requirements. A few other indicators have not been scored in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to district data. Of the district’s 90 points, 25 were automatic and came from indicators that are no longer scored, and five came from officials posting necessary documents online.
CCISD approves exception to HB3
Financial grade
Score out of 10
Number of days of cash on hand
Clear Creek ISD’s board of trustees approved at a Dec. 11 workshop a good cause exception to the state’s new House Bill 3, giving officials more time to meet the bill’s personnel and financial requirements. What you need to know The bill creates a number of security requirements for school districts across Texas. Chief among them is one that requires districts to have armed security officers at each of its campuses during school hours. Passed in June, the law allows districts to pass exceptions to the bill if they are unable to meet the requirements, but officials must come up with an alternative plan. CCISD officials have long said they are confident in local police to help meet security needs.
10
Current assets against current liabilities
6
General fund revenue against expenditures
10
Long-term solvency
4
Future debt against assessed property value
10
Administrative cost ratio
10
External audit results
10
0 2
4
6
8
10
NOTE: OF THE 20 INDICATORS, FOUR WERE NOT SCORED, AND EIGHT WERE ‘PASS’ OR ‘FAIL.’ SOURCE: CLEAR CREEK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Your Heart, Our Priority Every 33 seconds, a life is lost to heart disease in the United States. Don’t let those seconds define your story. At UTMB Health, your heart health is our priority . We’re committed to ensuring you receive personalized care and feel heard, supported and empowered on your journey to a healthier heart. Our team of expert cardiologists are dedicated to easing your concerns, delivering unparalleled care, and providing you with genuine peace of mind . In case of a suspected heart attack or any health emergency, dial 911 immediately. Remember, swift action can save lives.
Call our 24/7 Access Services team at (800) 917-8906 , visit our website at utmbhealth.com/heart , or scan the QR code to discover a doctor and schedule your next appointment today.
knows Heart Health
The University of Texas Medical Branch is in-network for most major insurance plans.
9
BAY AREA EDITION
HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake has earned the top three-star national rating in cardiovascular surgery The three-star national rating by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons is the highest quality ranking in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in the United States and Canada. Learn more about our comprehensive cardiovascular services at HCAHoustonHealthcare.com/Clear-Lake. Ta2 0ht 2eh3rl ,ea aet ne- ysdet ianarnc plauel dyr sei oi ssd9o, 2ff 7rdopamat ar Jt fui col iyrp C1a, nA2t0Bs 2.G0 stuor gJ eu rnye c3o0v, e r s The three-star national rating by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons is the highest quality ranking in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in the United States and Canada. Learn more about our comprehensive cardiovascular services at HCAHoustonHealthcare.com/Clear-Lake. 2173750_2023-12 Ta2 0ht 2eh3rl ,ea aet ne- ysdet ianarnc plauel dyr sei oi ssd9o, 2ff 7rdopamat ar Jt fui col iyrp C1a, nA2t0Bs 2.G0 stuor gJ eu rnye c3o0v, e r s HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake has earned the top three-star national rating in cardiovascular surgery
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY RACHEL LELAND
Hwy. 146 expressway bridge, 6 new lanes to open in February
After four years of construction, the expansion of Hwy. 146 between Red Blu Road and south of FM 518 as well as the addition of a new expressway bridge to allow for bypass trac to Seabrook, is nearing completion. The gist By the end of February, drivers can travel across the four lanes of the new expressway bridge, said Bambi Hall, public information ocer for the Texas Department of Transportation. In addition to adding the expressway bridge, the $214 million project will increase the number of lanes along Hwy. 146 from six to 12. The project will reduce congestion and make the road more viable as an emergency escape route, according to TxDOT’s website. One more thing The remaining portion of the project won’t be fully complete until spring as the original
The Texas Department of Transportation hopes the Hwy. 146 expansion will alleviate trac congestion and create a safer evacuation route during hurricanes.
JAKE MAGEECOMMUNITY IMPACT
December completion date was stalled by weather delays and material constraints, Hall said. Stay tuned This past August, TxDOT began widening a 5.5- mile section of Hwy. 146 between south of FM 518 and Dickinson Bayou, Hall said in an email.
RED BLUFF RD.
E. NASA PKWY.
146
EGRET BAY BLVD.
45
518
N
LIVE UP TO YOUR PROMISE! With the Promise @ San Jac Scholarship , in-district high school seniors are eligible for money to fully cover tuition and course materials at San Jacinto College!
MARIA General Studies
SANJAC.EDU/PROMISE
SCAN TO PLEDGE BY FEB. 22
An Equal Opportunity Institution
11
BAY AREA EDITION
From the cover
CCISD’s 2017 bond comes in $38M under budget
BY JAMES T. NORMAN
The overview
Dierence in projected vs. actual costs, major CCISD bond projects Clear Creek ISD in total saved roughly $38 million on its 2017 bond, which ocials were able to roll over into the $302 million bond passed in November 2023.
Roughly 50 projects later that totaled almost $450 million in cost, CCISD has completed all projects funded by its 2017 bond. Through the pandemic, ination and a hurricane, ocials are touting the work as a success. “I think the 2017 bond was timing,” Director of Facility Services Alex Aragon said. “And we hit the timing right.” That timing included not only the pandemic, but Hurricane Harvey too, which happened in August 2017—three months after the bond was passed, said Paul Miller, assistant superintendent of support services. They were rewarded early on with under-budget projects, as ination from 2017-20 remained fairly low, Miller said. As ination grew in the next few years, however, the district oset those costs with savings from earlier projects, such as the League City Elementary renovations, Miller said. Students being out of the physical schools during the pandemic also allowed ocials to push through projects quicker, such as the list of roof projects, which also saved money. “When COVID hit ... [we] thought this might be the time to roll the dice and go,” Aragon said.
Campbell Elementary: -$12.4M
Districtwide security upgrades: +20.7M Ross Elementary: +3.9M
League City Elementary: Pushing this project up in the queue and completing it in 2019 kept it from being aected by ination post- pandemic.
League City Elementary: -$14.4M Districtwide roof replacement: -$5.3M
Safety expenses: Following the 2018 school shooting in Santa Fe, CCISD shifted more than $20 million in project savings toward additional security upgrades.
Main transportation: -$3M
Ed White Elementary: +3.6M
Armand Bayou: -$1M
$0
-$25M
-$20M
-$15M -$10M -$5M
$5M $10M $15M
$20M
$25M
6% 16%
Total net savings: $38 million
Ination from 2017-20
Ination from 2020-23
NOTE: THIS IS NOT A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF THE BOND’S PROJECTS. SOURCES: CLEAR CREEK ISD, U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICSCOMMUNITY IMPACT
Stay tuned
Zooming out
Those opposed
The 2017 bond, which passed with 63.59% of the vote, in its lead-up was met with opposition from those who felt too much money was being asked for. Ratisseau counted himself among that oppo- sition, saying while he supported a bond, he felt it should have been half of what it was. Ratisseau said he feels spending money on facilities at this rate isn’t the best course of action, particularly when the district was seeing declining enrollment. CCISD has declined in enrollment in each of the last three school years.
Using bonds as the main method of facility maintenance can cause issues, said Bob Popinski, senior director of policy for education nonprot Raise Your Hand Texas. Popinski said he believes the system in general is strong in that it’s all local debt, but the state’s lack of funding for facility construction and maintenance leaves school districts picking up the tab. Debt assistance or facilities surveys could be ways for the state to help, he said. “As far as what the state osets, it really ain’t that much,” Popinski said.
CCISD ocials rolled over more than $30 million in savings from the 2017 bond to the $302 million bond approved Nov. 7. Moving into 2024, ocials have already started bidding out projects from the 2023 bond, with some expected to begin this year. Some of those projects could include: • Chillers to regulate temperature in six schools • Replacing aging fueling equipment for buses • Replacing sound and intercom systems at a few schools • Other priority repairs “The challenges [in this new bond] are going to be the supply chain issues and shortage issues,” Aragon said. “For this bond, which is mainly priority repairs, it’s going to be timing, getting equipment … and having the schools ready for the kids.”
“The district is not a growing district. It’s actually shrunk, and [ocials] are wanting to spend all this money on schools, new schools, rebuilding schools. … The bottom line is, why are you putting taxpayers in more debt when the district is shrinking?” PHIL RATISSEAU, CCISD RESIDENT
Bond election results in November 2023 for Texas school districts $15.05B in projects were approved $3.06B in projects were voted down
63 bonds failed
75 bonds passed
NOTE: THESE TOTALS ARE NOT OFFICIAL AND MAY NOT BE COMPREHENSIVE. SOURCE: TEXAS BOND REVIEW BOARDCOMMUNITY IMPACT
12
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
Number of homes sold
December 2022
December 2023
Residential market data
4
5 21
+25%
+320%
77058
77565
While there was variance between ZIP codes for the Bay Area in December 2023, overall trends show less homes were sold, and homes spent more time on the market compared to December 2022. Price differences varied for each ZIP code.
5
21 5
81 71
-76.19%
-12.35%
77059
77573
225
146
16 19
+18.75%
77062
GALVESTON BAY
45
518
Median home sales price
2022
2023
N
77058
-14.7%
$307,000
$360,000
77565 77058
77573 77059
77062
77059
+20.51%
$449,500
$373,000
77062
+2.96%
$330,000
$320,500
Homes sold in Bay area by price point
77565
-55.51%
$326,990
$735,000
December 2023
77573
-1.05%
$376,000
$380,000
$800,000+
4
$600,000-$799,999
3
Average days on market
$400,000-$599,999
38
-14%
+208.33%
-12.12%
+112.77%
+30.43%
$200,000-$399,999
73
<$199,999
5
NEIGHBORHOOD MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY ALINA ROGERS SPARROW REALTY • 281-961-2944 WWW.SPARROW-REALTY.COM
77058
77059
77062
77565
77573
281-235-7384 | highlandslatin.org/houston HLS - the premier hybrid classical, Christian school in the Bay Area Now Enrolling for 2024-25 Parent Preview Nights Feb 8, Mar 21, Apr 11, May 9, Jun 13
13
BAY AREA EDITION
Government
BY MELISSA ENAJE, RACHEL LELAND & JAMES T. NORMAN
League City City Council race headed to runoff Voters will soon have the chance to decide who will fill a vacancy on League City City Council. What’s happening? A special election held Jan. 13 for Position 4 on City Council saw five candidates vie for the seat, with two being sent to a runoff election. A runoff election is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 17, according to League City’s website. On Jan. 13, candidates Courtney Chadwell and Ange Mertens were the top vote-getters out of five total candidates, but neither received the majority of the vote count, which triggered a runoff. The details According to the state constitution, any council vacancy with an unexpired term of more than one year must be filled by a majority vote in a special election within 120 days of the vacancy.
League City to charge $50 fee for library People who do not live in or own property in Galveston County will soon have to pay a $50 annual household fee to use services at League City’s Helen Hall Library. The backstory In response to League City’s Helen Hall Library’s capacity and overhead challenges, League City City Council voted Jan. 9 to approve a library card fee for users who do not live or own property in League City or Galveston County, effective March 4, according to agenda documents. A needs assessment of Helen Hall Library presented to City Council in 2019 showed the facility lacked adequate parking and seating for library visitors and also lacked a sufficient staff-to-patron ratio.
Harris County clinic to open $9M health lab The Quentin Mease Health Center, located nearly 3 miles east of the Texas Medical Center, will be on the receiving end of just under $9 million in federal dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act. That funding will support the opening of an outpatient gastroenterology lab after Harris County commissioners approved the agreement in December. Why it matters At any given time, more than 3,000 patients end up waiting for a colonoscopy due to maximum capacity constraints, according to court documents. The money will be used to create additional capacity for colonoscopy procedures and support the purchase of equipment and software licenses, according to county officials.
Galveston County to use 2021 maps in elections Less than a week after a court of appeals ruled a map drawn in 2021 by Galveston County officials be used for the upcoming 2024 elections, the U.S. Supreme Court reaffirmed the decision, denying the plaintiff’s request to overturn the ruling. The gist In an ongoing federal case, Petteway vs. Galveston County, officials are trying to determine if a county commissioner map drawn by county officials in 2021 as part of its redistricting process violated the rights of minority voters. In a Dec. 12 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court denied a request from the plaintiffs of the case that asked the court to overturn the decision from the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which issued a stay on Dec. 7, meaning the maps drawn in 2021 would be used for the 2024 elections. The newest Supreme Court ruling came just
Galveston County commissioners map
Jan. 13 election results
Position 4 City Council
District 3
Katherine Swanson: 18.41% Rachel McAdam: 14.8% Courtney Chadwell: 42.6% Ange Mertens: 18.47%
District 1
District 2
District 4
Chris Dodson: 5.72%
Gulf of Mexico
SOURCE: GALVESTON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
N
The seat was held by John Bowen, who announced his resignation Oct. 31 and officially resigned Nov. 10, according to agenda documents. What they’re saying “I want to thank all my supporters who came out and voted on Saturday and in early voting,” Chadwell said. “I’m thrilled to still have the opportunity to try and prove to the community that I’m the best candidate to serve the citizens in League City,” Mertens said.
SOURCE: GALVESTON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
days after plaintiffs filed the emergency applica- tion to overturn the stay Dec. 8—just ahead of the state’s filing deadline for the March primaries, officials with the Southern Coalition for Social Justice said in a Dec. 12 news release. In the months leading up to the decision, a U.S. District Court ruled in October the county must redraw its maps. In November, that same judge, Judge Jeffrey Brown, ordered the use of a remedial map in the meantime.
BAY AREA 1033 Bay Area Blvd (281) 486-9558 LEAGUE CITY
KEMAH 243 FM 2094 (281) 538-9095 SEABROOK 3126 Nasa Pkwy (281) 326-5127
196 Gulf Fwy S (281) 316-2140
LIMITED AVAILABILITY! Call (281) 343-3608 today to schedule an experience. Hurricane Preparedness is Essential for Seniors Turn to The Delaney at South Shore for safe respite options for your loved ones, and learn how to be prepared for the season ahead. Call (281) 343-3608 to get our free Hurricane Preparedness guide today. LIMITED AVAILABILITY! Call (281) 343-3608 today to schedule an experience. BE DELICIOUSLY Happy LIMITED AVAILABILITY! Call (281) 343-3608 today to schedule an experience. Senior living that appeals to your taste for fun. BE DELICIOUSLY Happy BE DELICIOUSLY Happy Senior living that appeals to your taste for fun. Senior living that appeals to your taste for fun.
you need to know about your community in 5 MINUTES
2605 Marina Bay Drive | League City, TX 77573 TheDelaneyatSouthShore.com AL Facility ID# 107116 2605 Marina Bay Drive | League City, TX 77573 TheDelaneyatSouthShore.com AL Facility ID# 107116 2605 Marina Bay Drive | League City, TX 77573 TheDelaneyatSouthShore.com AL Facility ID# 107116
Sign up to receive the Morning Impact to your inbox. COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM�NEWSLETTER
Emergencies happen. We’re right here when they do. A health emergency is something most of us would rather prevent than plan for. But when you need medical care fast, the closest emergency room is a smart thing to know. As your community partner, St. Luke’s Health is your direct path from feeling scared or uncomfortable to feeling better. Get to know more about our ERs before an emergency strikes. Find your nearest location at StLukesHealth.org/Emergency .
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Election
BY JAMES T. NORMAN
Voter Guide
2024
To view the full list of all contested state and national candidates, visit www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide. Only candidates in contested elections are included. Visit county election websites for information on uncontested races.
KEY
R Republican
D Democrat
*Incumbent
Harris County sheriff R Glenn Cowan R Joe Danna R Paul Day R Mike Knox
R James “Jim” Matlock R Christie Clark R Petra Reyes D Bill Burch D Katherine Culbert Justice, Supreme Court of Texas, Place 2 D DaSean Jones D Randy Sarosdy Justice, Supreme Court of Texas, Place 4 R John Devine* R Brian Walker Justice, Supreme Court of Texas, Place 6 D Bonnie Lee Goldstein D Joe Pool County races Galveston County sheriff R Jimmy Fullen R Ray Nolen Galveston County constable, Precinct 1 R Paul Davidson R John Fernandez Jr. R Blake Patton Galveston County constable, Precinct 2 R Paul Edinburgh* R Michel Roy
Dates to know
Feb. 5: Last day to register to vote Feb. 20: First day of early voting March 1: Last day of early voting March 5: Election day
D Ed Gonzalez* D Joe Inocencio D Vergil Ratliff D Dana M. Wolfe Harris County district attorney
Where to vote
Any voter can cast a ballot in the Republican or Democratic primary, but not both. Harris and Galveston county residents can cast their ballots at any polling location during early voting and on election day. Visit www.galvestonvotes.org or www.harrisvotes.com for polling locations.
D Kim Ogg* D Sean Teare Harris County Department of Education, Position 3 D Richard Cantu* D Josh Wallenstein Harris County tax assessor-collector
Sample Ballot
Federal U.S. House, District 36 R Brian Babin* R Jonathan “Pipeliner” Mitchell State Texas House, District 24 R Greg Bonnen* R Larissa Ramirez Texas railroad commissioner R Christi Craddick* R Corey Howell
D Danielle Keys Bess D Desiree Broadnax D Claude Cummings III D Jerry Davis D Annette Ramirez Harris County attorney D Christian D. Menefee* D Umeka “UA” Lewis
SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, HARRIS COUNTY, GALVESTON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Same-Day Psychiatry & Pediatric Visits
Insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, CHIP & More Accepted
(281) 824-1480
MYCHN.ORG
17
BAY AREA EDITION
Election
Galveston County sheriff, Republican Primary
How would you work with local school districts to improve safety?
What will be your top priority if elected?
Institute creative policies to enhance recruitment and retention efforts to staff our workforce vacancies, which will enable our ability to be tougher on crime and keep our communities safe.
Work with school districts to support House Bill 3 by ensuring that every school has a uniformed law enforcement officer on campus that has current and up-to-date ALERRT [Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training] certification.
Ray Nolen Occupation: major with Galveston County Sheriff’s Office Relevant experience: 32 years of law enforcement experience www.nolen4sheriff.com
Immediate administrative change, reduce crime through proactive policing and increased patrols. Street level drug interdiction, aggressive recruitment/retention, accountability and fair and equitable promotional processes. Eliminate the “Good ‘ole Boy” system.
As a former school district police chief, I have first- hand working knowledge and know the importance of safeguarding our schools and protecting our children. As sheriff, I will constantly maintain adequate staffing levels at our schools to maintain a safe learning environment for students to learn and teachers to teach.
Jimmy Fullen Occupation: chief deputy, Precinct 2 Constable’s Office Relevant experience: 35 years full- time law enforcement veteran www.jimmyfullen.com
Texas House, District 24, Republican Primary
What would you like to see prioritized in terms of Gulf protection projects?
What will be your top priority if elected?
I am proud to have Governor [Greg] Abbott’s endorsement for re-election to continue to protect and defend Texans and our freedoms. We have banned sanctuary cities in Texas, added over $6 billion to protect our southern border, passed the heartbeat bill to protect the unborn, and delivered record property tax relief.
I have always supported the Coastal Barrier System for protection against storm surge and further funding for flood mitigation along our numerous creeks and bayous. Every year I work with a coalition of coastal legislators to fight windstorm insurance increases, and this cycle will be no different.
Greg Bonnen* Occupation: neurosurgeon
Relevant experience: Greg Bonnen has served as a Republican member for the 24th district of the Texas
House of Representatives. www.drgregbonnen.com
Candidate could not be reached for comment.
Candidate could not be reached for comment.
Larissa Ramirez Candidate could not be reached for comment.
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY RACHEL LELAND & JAMES T. NORMAN
*INCUMBENT
U.S. House, District 36, Republican Primary
With space being a growing industry in the area, what policies would you/have you supported to continue that expansion? As the Space Subcommittee Chairman, we passed the FAA Reauthorization Act, detailing a framework for technologies like electric propulsion/commercial space launches. We passed the Commercial Space Act, which supports growing industry partners and international competitiveness. I’m working on a NASA reauthorization bill to support our space program/commercial partners.
What will be your top priority if elected?
Secure U.S. borders. Reverse economic decline. Re-establish law and order. Unleash U.S. energy. Strengthen our military. Support Second Amendment rights. Protect the unborn. Support [Johnson Space Center] and ensure we remain the world’s preeminent space-faring nation. Restore U.S. standing on the international stage.
Brian Babin* Occupation: United States Representative Relevant experience: U.S.
representative from Texas’s 36th congressional district since 2015 www.babin.house.gov
Candidate could not be reached for comment.
Candidate could not be reached for comment.
Jonathan Mitchell Candidate could not be reached for comment.
Where good workouts meet good works. At the YMCA, we believe in real, purposeful gains for our members. Get healthier, get involved and get a membership that changes lives, inspires youth, and strengthens your community.
This year, your fitness journey can go beyond your new year’s resolution to join a gym.
ymcahouston.org
YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.
19
BAY AREA EDITION
BY JAMES T. NORMAN Community 2024 Annual Community Guide
League City, Seabrook and Clear Lake Shores are all in the Bay Area of the Greater Houston area, and sit in Galveston County. Each saw their populations become more diverse over the last five years. However, while League City and Seabrook grew, Clear Lake Shores saw a slight decline in its population. Bay Area snapshot
League City
Clear Lake Shores Seabrook
SOURCE: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU 2022 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 5-YEAR ESTIMATES/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Age analysis
Population change
29.1% 25.1% 29.2% 13.7% 2.8% 37.1
16.1% 12.5% 36.4% 30.3% 4.7% 51.6
25.1% 29.6% 26.5% 16.7% 2% 34.8
0-19
98,215
13,325
1,249
2017
2017
2017
20-39
113,469
13,558
1,232
2022
2022
2022
40-59
60-79
5-year population change
80+
+15.53%
+1.75%
-1.36%
Median age
Galveston County: +9.22%
Texas: +6.65%
Local demographics*
2022
2017
2022
2017
2022
2017
Hispanic or Latino White Black or African American American Indian or Alaska native Asian Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander Some other race Two or more races
19.6%
18.5%
20.7%
5.6%
10.9%
18.9%
65.6%
62.5%
73.8%
68.8%
91.5%
83.5%
7.1% 0.2% 6%
7.8%
4%
4.3% 0.2% 4.5%
0% 0% 0% 0% 0%
1.2% 0.2% 0.4%
0.1%
0%
1.9%
6.1%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0% 0%
0.1% 2.2%
0.6% 3.3%
0.2% 1.6%
0.4% 1.2%
2.9%
3.8%
*ALL CATEGORIES LISTED ARE RACES, EXCEPT FOR HISPANIC OR LATINO, WHICH IS NOT A RACE. HOWEVER, THE PERCENTAGES OF THE RACES LISTED DO NOT INCLUDE HISPANIC OR LATINO RESIDENTS.
Education level*
Largest employment sectors*
2017 2022
High school diploma or higher
1 Management occupations
1 Sales and related occupations
1 Management occupations
2 Sales and related occupations 3 Health diagnosing and treating practitioners, and other technical occupations 4 Architecture and engineering occupations
2 Sales and related occupations
2 Office and
95.6% 95.7% 97.1% 91% 98.5% 97.8%
administrative support occupations
3 Office and
Bachelor’s degree or higher
administrative support occupations
3 Management occupations
44.3% 48.1% 44% 40.1% 54.6% 45.9%
4 Educational
4 Educational
instruction and library occupations
instruction, and library occupations
*AGES 25 AND OLDER
*EMPLOYMENT FOR AGE 16 AND OLDER
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY RACHEL LELAND
League City Medical facilities The following stories are based on trends Community Impact staff identified through monthly Impacts section reporting in 2023.
League City
Miller Dentistry The business opened Dec. 11, with its services including dental emergency treatments, dental cleanings, cosmetic and restorative dentistry, general, family and pediatric dentistry, and oral surgery. • 2500 Marina Bay Drive, Ste. Z, League City • www.millerdentistry.com Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital The hospital opened a new emergency care center May 23. This facility aims to address residents’ concerns about long wait times in the emergency room and offers a streamlined process for acute medical needs. Other services include neurology, orthopedics, sports medicine and women’s health. • 1310 E. League City Parkway, League City • www.houstonmethodist.org
Renew Dental Implants The restorative dentistry practice allows patients to customize their treatment with single, bridge or full-mouth dental implant surgery, as well as implant- supported dentures. They also have a dental lab on-site that allows them to print restorations. The Kelsey-Seybold South Shore Harbour Clinic The one-story, 15,000-square-foot facility provides comprehensive primary care, such as family medicine, pediatrics and internal medicine. It also has a lab for imaging services, such as X-rays and ultrasounds. It was opened March 20.
• 3625 E. League City Parkway, League City • www.kelsey-seybold.com
Webster
Pasadena
HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake In September, HCA Houston Healthcare was redesignated as the only Level II trauma center in the Bay Area, which recognized the hospital’s capabilities in providing critical care to trauma patients. The hospital also broke ground on an Early Childhood Education Center, which is slated for completion in spring 2024. • 500 W. Medical Center Blvd., Webster • www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/locations/clear-lake
HCA Houston Rehabilitation Hospital Southeast The facility offers specialized care for patients recovering from various traumas. It opened May 22. • 4801 E. Sam Houston Parkway S., Pasadena • www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/locations/southeast This list is not comprehensive.
practice opened July 17. • 17330 Hwy. 3, Webster • www.renewdentalimplants.com
DEBT RELIEF IS AT YOUR DOOR with our Home Equity Loans
6640 South Shore Blvd., Suite 100 League City, TX 77573 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org
21
BAY AREA EDITION
Community
BY JAMES T. NORMAN
SATURN LN.
UPPER BAY RD.
L E A
45
N
N
Dutch Bros. Coee 1721 W. League City Parkway, League City www.dutchbros.com
SummerMoonCoee 1846 E. NASA Parkway, Nassau Bay www.summermooncoee.com
Dutch Bros Coee opened a new shop in the Bay Area in 2023.
Coee among new 2023 businesses in Bay Area Multiple coee shops opened in the Bay Area in 2023, many of which branded themselves as a unique spin on the traditional brew. Summer Moon Coee, for example, oers a signature Oak Roasted Coee, which comes from coee beans roasted over a wood re. Keeping local, Soulfreak Café, which opened in the historic Burd House at League Park, uses coee from Pearland Coee Roasters. Others, such as Black Rock Coee, also opened their doors. Meanwhile, Dutch Bros Coee opened a new location in the area in 2023, and could open a couple more in the coming months.
EASTFIELD DR.
45
N
N
Soulfreak Café 512 Second St., League City www.soulfreak.com
Luce Avenue Coee Roasters 18611 Easteld Drive, Webster www.lucecoeeroasters.com
907 West Main St - League City • 346-215-0581 • eva@insuredbyjohn.com John Valdes Agency Are you Turning 65 soon? Call me! Choose a local consultant you can trust! Medicare Advantage Plans • Medicare Supplement Insurance • Health Insurance Under 65 Services are Complimentary!
John & Eva Valdes Medicare Insurance Agents
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Advertise in the Spring Camp Guide
Virtually ip through any e-edition! Enhance your experience with hyperlinked stories and ads.
SALESSUPPORT@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM PRINT + DIGITAL PACKAGES | DIRECT MAIL
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM PRINTARCHIVES Snap or visit
23
BAY AREA EDITION
YOUR BUSINESS HAS A story
TRY ONE TODAY
Hire Storytelling to write and share it.
# 1 SCAN THE QR CODE # 2 DOWNLOAD THE APP � 3 GET FREE FREDDY’S
FROZEN CUSTARD SINGLE SCOOP CONE FREE
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM/ ADVERTISE (866) 989-6808
Good for one single scoop cone - no purchase necessary. Must present this coupon. One per guest, per visit. Some restrictions may apply. Only valid at our Houston area Freddy’s locations. Freddys.com Expires: 2-29-2024
Custom Closets Garage Cabinets Home Offices Wall Beds Wall Organizers Pantries
Laundries Wall Units Hobby Rooms Garage Flooring Media Centers and more...
Imagine your home, totally organized!
Terms and Conditions: 40% off any order of $1000 or more or 30% off any order of $700 or more on any complete custom closet, garage, or home office unit. Take an additional 15% off on any complete system order. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $600 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Expires 2/28/2023 . Offer not valid in all regions. Terms and Conditions: 40% off any order of $1000 or more or 30% off any order of $700 or more on any complete custom closet, garage, or home office unit. Take an additional 15% off on any complete system order. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $600 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Discount Expires in 30 Days. Offer not valid in all regions. 40 % Off Free Installation 15% Off PLUS TAKE AN EXTRA 40% Off Plus 15% Off SPECIAL FINANCING FOR 18 MONTHS With approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details. Not available in all areas. Plus
Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate 346 - 230 - 2667 www.closetsbydesign.com CI Follow us
24
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Regular Price $25. 50 !
2 BUFFET DEAL 2 Buffet & 2 Drinks Only $20 One coupon per transaction. Not valid with other coupons or special offers. Not valid on groups or parties. Good at El Camino Real location only. Limited time offer.
TO KEEP YOU WARM THIS WINTER Hot Deals
$20 Savings!
FAMILY FUN DEAL 4 Buffets, 4 Drinks & 4 $5 Gamecards Only $49 One coupon per transaction. Not valid with other coupons or special offers. Not valid on groups or parties. Good at El Camino Real location only. Limited time offer.
All you care to eat Open all day, everyday. BUFFET Think Mr Gatti’s for BIRTHDAY & TEAM PARTIES book at MrGattisPizza.com
FREE $10 GAMECARD with Kids Buffet Purchase Ages 14 & under. One gamecard per transaction. Not valid with other coupons or special offers. Not valid on groups or parties. Good at El Camino Real location only. Limited time offer.
$2 OFF Menu Price Buffet
Scan to order online now!
One coupon per transaction. Not valid with other coupons or special offers. Not valid on groups or parties. Good at El Camino Real location only. Limited time offer.
16607 El Camino Real | Houston | TX 281-480-4800 | MrGattisPizza.com
New! A Community Impact Print+ Digital Advertising Package
Contact us: SalesSupport@communityimpact.com
25
BAY AREA EDITION
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14-15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28Powered by FlippingBook