Sugar Land - Missouri City Edition | February 2024

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Sugar Land Missouri City Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 6 FEB. 10MARCH 8, 2024

2024 Voter Guide

New Fort Bend ISD superintendent begins term New Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Marc Smith began his tenure Jan. 22, following controversy surrounding the retirement of former Superintendent Christie Whitbeck.

KEN CONKLECOMMUNITY IMPACT

board members for their faith and trust in him. “We are all here to make sure that we do every- thing possible to provide the best, the highest quality education for the students in Fort Bend ISD, and I commit to you that every day, that’s what you’re going to get from me,” Smith said.

board to retire with severance pay or be dismissed. This is despite her eorts in campaigning for the November voter-approval tax rate election, or VATRE, and receiving a two-year contract extension and raise in July. FBISD didn’t provide Community Impact an inter- view with Smith before press time, but at the Jan. 8 meeting where he signed his contract, Smith thanked

BY DAVE MANNING

New Superintendent Marc Smith began his term Jan. 22, but Fort Bend ISD’s board’s reason for making a change at the top position of district leadership remains undivulged. In December, former Superintendent Christie Whitbeck said she was given an ultimatum by the

CONTINUED ON 20

Also in this issue

Impacts: Yogurtland oers frozen treats to Sugar Land (Page 6)

Election: Viewa sample ballot for March primaries (Page 11)

Events: 6 things to do in the area this month (Page 17)

History: Museum owner highlights Black Americans (Page 23)

THERE’S A BETTER APPROACH TO CANCER CARE in Sugar Land

At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, we treat every aspect of your cancer. Leading oncologists work with our specialists across disciplines to minimize cancer’s effects on major organs. One comprehensive team — dedicated to your individual care — uses the latest research, treatments and technology to stop your cancer. From infusion and clinical trials to surgery and reconstruction, our innovative care is available in Sugar Land.

The Woodlands

Willowbrook

Katy-West Houston

Baytown

That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.

Texas Medical Center

Clear Lake

Sugar Land

281.274.7500 houstonmethodist.org/cancer-sl

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

SHEIKHANI ALI

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

NOW OPEN! FORT BEND COUNTY’S NEWEST y

New Models NOW OPEN from the $200s-$500s

SH6

SUGARLAND

Lennar · LGI Homes · DSLD Homes Tricoast Homes · Davidson Homes OUR FAMILY of Builders Located on Highway 59 near Rosenberg, Emberly is the next generation of master-planned communities. Near Fort Bend’s star attractions and zoned to student-focused Lamar CISD schools.

RICHMOND

Brazos Town Center

ROSENBERG

Exit Loop 541 towards Kendleton and turn left on Doris Rd. over Hwy 59.

EMBERLYTEXAS.COM

* Prices and availability subject to change without notice. 1/24

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

Amy Martinez General Manager amymartinez@ communityimpact.com

Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Account Executive Christina Goodwin Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt

Kelly Schafler Senior Editor kschafler@ communityimpact.com

Jason Culpepper Publisher jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

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 slmnews@communityimpact.com Advertising slmads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

communityimpact.com

@communityimpactnews

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

DR. SARA Goldstein DO, FAAP

SHOP IN STORE ON THE 1ST SATURDAY OF YOUR BIRTHDAY MONTH AND RECEIVE A DISCOUNT EQUAL TO YOUR AGE, UP TO 50% OFF

BOARD CERTIFIED PEDIATRICIAN 5819 HIGHWAY 6, SUITE 330, MISSOURI CITY, TX 77459 Ph 281.499.6300 FX 281.499.7180 www.pediatricsaroundthebend.com BOARD CERTIFIED PEDIATRICIAN 5819 HIGHWAY 6, SUITE 330, MISSOURI CITY, TX 77459 Ph 281.499.6300 FX 281.499.7180 www.pediatricsaroundthebend.com DO, FAAP SAME DAY SICK APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

6216 Hwy 6, Missouri City, TX 77459 281-208-7908 • theflawlesscloset.com Tuesday-Saturday: Open 10AM-6PM, Closed Sunday and Monday

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Impacts

W . B E L L F O R T B

4 Barcello’s Fusion The restaurant specializes in peri-peri chicken, broast chicken, Turkish plates, pizzas, pasta and a variety of drinks, such as mocktails and shakes. Restaurant officials said the establishment serves 100% halal meat. • Opened Oct. 29 • 636 Hwy. 6, Ste. 100, Sugar Land • www.barcellosfusion.com 5 Halcyon Holistic Healing Circle The wellness center offers a diverse range of services including yoga, qigong, self-defense classes, mediumship, counseling, coaching and various holistic 6 Sweet Shoppe The shop sells branded Sugar Land souvenirs, Mexican spicy candy from La Dulce Factory, candy in bulk and freshly baked goods. It’s only open for attendees during events at the Smart Financial Centre. • Opened Dec. 15 7 Club Champion The custom golf club fitter aims to help golfers lower their game scores by fitting, selling and building custom golf clubs. The by appointment-only shop also features indoor hitting bays as well as a build shop. • Opened Nov. 1 • 13509 University Blvd., Ste. A400, Sugar Land • www.clubchampion.com health services. • Opened Nov. 1 • 8410 Hwy. 90A, Ste. 130, Sugar Land • www.halcyonhhc.com • 18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land • www.smartfinancialcentre.net 8 Beans Up Coffee The drive-thru coffee shop offers various espresso and cold brew-based drinks as well as some bakery items and breakfast sandwiches. • Opened Nov. 11 • 5405 Hwy. 6, Ste. 100, Missouri City • www.beansupcoffee.com

99 TOLL

W. BELLFORT BLVD.

Missouri City

N BLVD.

1092

99 TOLL

14 12

359

723

Sugar Land

COMMONWEALTH BLVD.

K W Y .

KITTY HOLLOW PARK

FAIRGROUNDS RD.

STELLA RD.

SIENNA PKWY.

2759

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• Opened October • 14019 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 310, Sugar Land • www.pilateslabtx.com/studio 3 Cava The Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant chain serves rice and grain bowls that customers can customize with proteins such as falafel, harissa honey chicken and spicy

Now open

1 #Liquors The shop sells spirits, wine and beers and offers a

drive-thru service. • Opened Dec. 13 • 2821 Dulles Ave., Missouri City

lamb meatballs. • Opened Nov. 17 • 10407 Hwy. 6, Ste. 100, Missouri City • www.cava.com

2 Pilates Lab This personalized wellness studio offers both small group reformer sessions and customized private instruction.

ASK ABOUT QUICK MOVE-IN HOMES! 281.746.6212 HoustonSoutheastOSC@drhorton.com WHY LIVE IN CALDWELL IN MISSOURI CITY? Covered Pavilion & Picnic Tables Splash Pad

New HOMES FROM the $270’s YOUR NEW LIFE STARTS HERE! CALDWELL COMMUNITY | MODEL HOMES OPEN DAILY

521

�

288

Caldwell Ranch

Sienna Pt.

Caldwell Ranch Blvd

Water Slides Soccer Field

SCAN FOR DETAILS

Parks & Walking Trails Zoned to Fort Bend ISD

drhorton.com/texas/houston/rosharon/caldwell-ranch

obligation. Square footage is approximate only. Additional restrictions may apply. Furnishings and decorative items not included with home purchase. Artist renderings only. Subject to change. Schools, districts and zoning are outside of D.R. Horton, Inc.’s control and subject to change at any time. Buyer should conduct his or her own investigation of the present and future availability of school districts and school assignments. Seller has no control or responsibility for any changes to school districts or school assignments should they occur in the future. 12/2024.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ASIA ARMOUR, SHAHERYAR KHAN & KELLY SCHAFLER

9 College 101 The college planning service offers various services, including helping students develop a list of colleges; scheduling college visits; tutoring; crafting college essays; and ACT, SAT and PSAT preparation. • Opened Jan. 19 • 609 Dulles Ave., Stafford • www.class101.com/sugarlandtx

• 13533 University Blvd., Ste. 450, Sugar Land • www.greatamericancookiesandmarbleslabcreamery.com

Coming soon

14 Bell Massage The family-owned business specializes in offering a range of massage services, including Thai traditional massages, Swedish massages, and specialized treatments like aroma therapy, body scrubs, cupping, and infrared saunas. • Opening mid-May • 13540 University Blvd., Ste. 800, Sugar Land • 346-696-0152 15 School of Science and Technology The charter school expands with a college preparatory high school in the Richmond area that will focus on science, technology, engineering and math as well as include a soccer field and athletic courts. • Opening August 2025 16 Regional training facility The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office broke ground Jan. 10 on the two buildings of the training facility that feature classrooms, an auditorium, offices, a firearms range and a driving track. • Opening mid-2025 • Corner of West Fairground Road and Stella Road, Rosenberg • www.fortbendcountytx.gov • 18413 W. Bellfort Blvd., Richmond • www.sugarland.sstschools.org

Coming soon

10 The Flying Biscuit Many of the breakfast and brunch restaurant’s favorite options include a fluffy biscuit, such as the chorizo hash and the stuffed French toast breakfast. • Opening early February • 10310 W. Grand Parkway S., Ste. 101, Richmond • www.flyingbiscuit.com 11 Body20 The technology-based training facility is already offering residents a demonstration for its electro- muscle stimulation technology that aims to provide a personalized workout experience. Access to the full space will be availble in the spring, officials said. • Estimated opening in March • 4853 Sweetwater Blvd., Ste. 18-B, Sugar Land • www.body20.com/sugar-land 12 Yogurtland At the self-serve frozen yogurt chain, customers can create their own yogurt combinations by choosing from a variety of flavors and toppings. • Opening mid-February • 13590 University Blvd., Ste. 430, Sugar Land • www.yogurtland.com

18 K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel The pet boarding and day care facility will offer upscale accommodations and services for dogs, including overnight boarding, professionally trained staff, antimicrobial flooring and premium dog food, according to a news release from the company. • Opening Feb. 3 • 14033 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land • www.k9resorts.com

Worth the trip

Closings

19 Sheneese’s Pieces This art gallery and event space is curated by visual artist Sheneese Rohelia. Her works include mixed media originals, digital arts, jigsaw puzzles, housewares and journals. Events include paint and sip parties and private gallery tours. • Opened Dec. 7 • 3520 FM 723, Ste. J, Rosenberg • www.sheneesespieces.com

17 It Seams To Be Sew The quilt studio had to close its storefront due to a fire at an adjoining restaurant, Panda Garden. Online shopping for fabric, machines, books and patterns are still available through the business’ website. • Closed Nov. 30 • 1039 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land • www.itseamstobesew.com

13 Marble Slab Creamery & Great American Cookies

Marble Slab Creamery offers customizable ice cream with mix-ins on a frozen slab, and Great American Cookies specializes in freshly baked cookies and brownies. • Opening mid-May

SUGAR LAND/STAFFORD AREA OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE!

10707 Corporate Drive

12603 Southwest Frwy

10701 Corporate Drive

Top Building Signage Available

Monument Signage Available

BUILDING AMENITIES

COWORKING AVAILABLE NOW • Single Room Offices • Office Packages Starting at $69/mo • Virtual Address

EXECUTIVE SUITES AVAILABLE Offices starting from $700/month Includes Conference Room

• On-site Property Management & Leasing • On-site Courtesy Officer • Renovated Common Areas • Space Available from 685 sf - 8,500 sf

Private Offices • Wifi • Short Term Leases

• Conference Facilities • Fully Furnished Options

10701 Corporate Dr #155 Stafford, TX 77477

CALL NOW! 713.789.2200

Bill McGrath, CCIM 281.598.9860 bmcgrath@landparkco.com

measterling@landparkco.com Matt Easterling 713.325.4112

www.LandParkCo.com

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Choose Success CHOOSE FORT BEND ISD

TOP 5 COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES FBISD Graduates Attend

Texas A&M University

Houston Community College

Wharton Community Junior College

University of Houston

University of Texas

Eighty Two National Merit Semifinalists in 2024 FBISD has more semifinalists than any other district in the entire Houston region

MORE THAN 80,000 STUDENTS

CAMPUSES located southwest of Houston 12 High Schools (Two Title I) 15 Middle Schools (Three Title I) 51 Elementary Schools (22 Title I) 5 Specialized Schools

One of the most diverse school districts in the nation. Our families speak more than 90 languages and dialects

7 HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIES

Digital Media Academy

Engineering Academy

Global Studies Academy

International Business & Marketing Academy

Math & Science Academy

Medical Science Academy

29,715 2022-2023 AP Credit Hours

18,519 2022-2023 Dual Credit Hours

85 2022-2023 Associates Degrees Earned

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FINE ARTS and ATHLETICS PROGRAMS

To enroll visit www.fortbendisd.com/chooseFBISD

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY RACHEL LELAND & KELLY SCHAFLER

Sugar Land seeks state funds for river erosion The city of Sugar Land aims to secure millions of dollars in funding to support erosion control near the Brazos River. The overview On Jan. 16, Sugar Land City Council voted to approve a $28 million grant application to the Texas Water Development Board to support the Brazos River Riverbank Erosion Mitigation Project. In response to erosion events following flooding in 2015, 2016 and Hurricane Harvey in August 2017, Sugar Land and Fort Bend County officials commissioned two studies to begin tackling the problem, City Engineer Jessie Li said

Great Homes Update Program reopens Homeowners in Sugar Land can apply for rebates for their exterior home improve- ments after application for the city’s Great Homes Update Program reopened Feb. 1. In a nutshell City Council voted in September to renew the city’s Great Homes Update Program and allocated $500,000 more to reimburse homeowners revitalizing their home’s exterior, city officials said. The Great Homes program includes: • Great Homes Update Program: Participants can be rebated on part of their renovation.

Ongoing erosion along the Brazos River in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County causes: +700,000

county residents to be threatened

$8 billion

potential risk in economic and infrastructural repercussions

SOURCE: CITY OF SUGAR LAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT

R-Brenham, played a key role in securing $28 million through the TWDB’s Grant Projects pro- gram in the state budget, according to the release. The funding will combine with $42 million dedicated from the Texas General Land Office for erosion projects focusing on Sugar Land Memo- rial Park and Hwy. 59 bridge improvements over the Brazos River, per the release.

in a news release. The action taken

• Great Homes Design Program: Participants get a voucher for a discounted home design.

During the 88th Texas Legislature, Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, and Sen. Lois Kolkhorst,

· Champions Responsible Spending · Advances Economic Growth · Keeps Fort Bend County Safe & Family Friendly

832-338-1199 | commissionerandymeyers@gmail.com

EARLY VOTING: FEBRUARY 20TH THROUGH MARCH 1ST • ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, MARCH 5TH ENDORSED BY: TEXAS STATE SENATOR JOAN HUFFMAN • FORMER FORT BEND COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY JOHN HEALEY • MEADOWS PLACE MAYOR CHARLES JESSUP • THE LINK LETTER • FORT BEND CONSERVATIVES PAC

Political Ad Paid for by Andy Meyers Campaign

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Vote Mike Khan Republican for Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 3 • Infrastructure & Transportation • Flood Management & Resilience • Public Safety & Emergency Services • Economic Development & Job Creation • Transparency & Accountability

STRONG FAMILIES, FAITH & SAFE COMMUNITIES

EARLY VOTING: FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 1, 2024 ELECTION DAY: MARCH 5, 2024 (281) 713-KHAN MIKEFOR3.COM Paid Political Ad by Mike Khan Campaign

Generously supported by The City of Sugar Land Public Works Department

Be a raindrop, plunge into the water cycle and see if you can make a clean run to the ocean!

OPEN NOW! For tickets, visit

sugarland.hmns.org or call 713-639-4629

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY KELLY SCHAFLER

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

R Lea Simmons D Vanesia Johnson D Suleman Lalani* State House, District 85 R Tim Greeson R Stan Kitzman*

D Roland Gutierrez D Steven J. Keough D Thierry Tchenko U.S. House, District 7 R Tina Blum Cohen R Kenneth Omoruyi

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 Pervez Agwan D Lizzie Fletcher* U.S. House, District 22 D Marquette Greene-Scott D Wayne Raasch

Where to vote

Local elections Fort Bend County commissioner, Precinct 3 R Mike Khan

Any voter can cast a ballot in the Republican or Democratic primary, but not both. Fort Bend County residents can cast their ballots at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations.

R Andy Meyers* D Allen Bogard D Abrahim Javed D Zeeshan Isaac

State elections Railroad commissioner R Christie Clark R Christi Craddick* R Corey Howell R James “Jim” Matlock R Petra Reyes D Bill Burch D Katherine Culbert Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 2 D DaSean Jones D Randy Sarosdy Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 4 R John Devine* R Brian Walker Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 6 D Bonnie Lee Goldstein D Joe Pool State House, District 27

Sample ballot

D Taral Patel D Kiran Rao Fort Bend County constable, Precinct 2 D Floyd Davis D Sam Hayes D Shawn Morgan D Daryl L. Smith Sr.* Fort Bend County constable, Precinct 3 R Ali Sheikhani R Aqeel Virk D Marion Glenn D Manu Pooparayil D Nabil Shike* Fort Bend County sheriff R Mo Nehad

Federal election U.S. President R Ryan L. Binkley R Chris Christie R Ron DeSantis R Nikki Haley R Asa Hutchinson

R Vivek Ramaswamy R David Stuckenberg R Donald J. Trump D Joseph R. Biden, Jr.* D Gabriel A. Cornejo D Star Locke D Frankie Lozada D Armando “Mando” Perez-Serrato

D Dean Phillips D Cenk Uygur D Marianne Williamson U.S. Senator R Ted Cruz* R Holland “Redd” Gibson R R.E. “Rufus” Lopez D A. “Robert” Hassan D Carl Oscar Sherman D Colin Allred D Heli Rodriguez Prilliman D Mark Gonzalez D Meri Gomez

R John Minchew R Marshall Slot D Sonny Colunga D Eric Fagan* D Geneane Hughes D Pete Luna

D Rodrigo Carreon D Ronald Reynolds* State House, District 28 R Gary Gates* R Daniel Mathews D Nelvin J. Adriatico D Marty Rocha State House, District 76 R Dayo David R Summara Kanwal

SOURCE: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Election

BY KELLY SCHAFLER

Fort Bend County Precinct 3 commissioner, Republican Primary

*INCUMBENT

Mike Khan Occupation: president/CEO of media/entertainment company; involved in business enterprises Experience: experience in budgets, planning and communication www.mikefor3.com

Andy Meyers* Occupation: Fort Bend County commissioner Precinct 3 Experience: I’ve been Precinct 3 commissioner for 27 years. People call me The Taxpayers’ Best Friend. www.andymeyers.com

What is your top priority if elected?

My top priority is to immediately begin meeting and working with the residents, city leaders, county department heads, county road and bridge departments, and county officials to discuss and determine what is needed to best serve, provide for and protect our residents while using our resources wisely and with financial responsibility.

To keep Fort Bend County a safe, family-friendly and business-friendly county welcoming to people from all over the world. To change our status from a bedroom community of Houston to a job center for our highly educated workforce, and help solve the state’s need for clean, reliable energy.

Fort Bend County Precinct 3 commissioner, Democratic Primary

Allen Bogard Occupation: public servant Experience: 40-plus years, local government management; 20 years, Sugar Land city manager; recognized

Abrahim Javed Occupation: co-founder and chief operations officer at CharityStack Experience: master’s in professional accounting, COO of a venture- backed startup www.javedforcommissioner.com

Zeeshan Isaac Occupation: business IT management

Experience: managed $250 million budget; partnered with public and private enterprises, nonprofits www.zeeshanisaac.com

for “career excellence” www.allenbogard.com

What is your top priority if elected?

Need for greater transparency for decisions affecting taxpayers is needed to promote public interest. Commissioners shouldn’t obligate taxpayers to major new projects without thorough public deliberation and voter approval. Current practice of accepting political donations from those with business before the court can create conflicts of interest and public distrust.

If elected, I’ll prioritize lowering property taxes and preventing wasteful spending in Fort Bend County. Drawing on my accounting background and business ownership experience, I’m committed to responsible fiscal management. By avoiding special interest money and ensuring transparency, I’ll use taxpayer dollars wisely while prioritizing the community’s needs.

When I get elected, my key priorities will be accountability, infrastructure and emergency management. My experience in budget management with thought leadership and my deeply rooted ties in Fort Bend neighborhoods for over 20 years, I am the only candidate who has what it takes to take Fort Bend forward together.

Taral Patel Occupation: Fort Bend small- business owner Experience: Fort Bend County chief of staff; Texas House legislative director; White House liaison www.taralpateltx.com

Kiran Rao Occupation: assistant principal Experience: school administration; master’s in environmental biology; lifetime of community service www.kiranforcommissioner.com

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.

What is your top priority if elected?

We must cut taxes, slash toll road fees, invest in public safety programs, attract major employers and upgrade infrastructure. As we reach a million residents in the next few years, we must make our cost of living more affordable and protect the community I have always called home.

If elected, I will ensure that every citizen has indiscriminate access to mobility services, as well as redoubling the efforts to ensure that Fort Bend is a safe community for all.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Fort Bend County sheri, Republican Primary

*INCUMBENT

Mo Nehad Occupation: police ocer

John Minchew Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.

Marshall Slot Occupation: senior corporate security advisor for Chevron Experience: 30+ years in law enforcement; 24 years protecting Fort Bend; 15 years in security www.votemarshallslot.com

Experience: eld training ocer; master peace oce; police ocer; warrant ocer-Texas military; businessman www.monehad.com

What is your top priority if elected?

To increase the number of deputies on patrol and in county jail by hiring new graduates from regional police academies and having incentives for lateral and experienced police ocers. In addition, to having a hiring schedule created for the next two years for our county law enforcement academy.

Candidate did not respond to the questionnaire before press time.

I will ll command sta positions with existing FBCSO personnel where possible and demand servant leadership at all levels of the agency. By rebuilding the morale and professionalism within the agency, our dedicated deputies and support sta will provide superior service to our county.

Fort Bend County sheri, Democratic Primary

Geneane Hughes Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time .

Sonny Colunga Occupation: retired September 2023 Experience: 41years of law enforcement; 33 years executive command level experience www.sonnycolungaforsheri.org

Eric Fagan* Occupation: Fort Bend County sheri Experience: led the sheri’s oce for the past 3 1/2 years www.ericfagan.com

What is your top priority if elected?

As a newly elected sheri my top priority would be to enhance community engagement and build strong relationships with the citizens. This would include implementing community policing strategies, organizing town hall meetings, and collaborating with local community and business leaders to address the concerns and needs of the community.

Keeping the people of FBC safe. The collaboration I have built with local, state and federal agencies which helped us to take drugs, guns and violent criminals o the streets. Utilizing more technology to ght crime, continuing to request raises for deputies building upon the 4%-20% I already obtained.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

Pete Luna Occupation: retired Texas Ranger Experience: nearlythree decades of law enforcement experience: Texas Ranger, DPS narcotics sergeant, DPS state trooper www.lunafors.com

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50

What is your top priority if elected?

My priority will be to revitalize the sheri’s oce. I will immediately implement an aggressive plan to recruit, retain and train personnel. The training of employees and the development of leaders will be a priority. The sheri’s oce has the potential to set the standard for other police agencies.

SUGAR LAND MISSOURI CITY EDITION

ID: 3000-001-22-Phase II Estimate: N/A Type: Construction Owner: West Keegans Bayou Improvement District

West Keegans Improvement District would like to invite Bids from Qualified Contractors to perform the Construction Services for West Keegans Bayou Outfall Improvement Phase II Project between Tamayo Drive and Addicks Clodine Rd.

Pre-Bid Details Date: 2/19/2024 Time: 11:00 AM Location: Conference Call Notes: Provided in Bid Documents Contact Address Kavi Consulting Inc. 1011 Highway 6S

Contact Info Vijaya Rapolu Phone/Fax: 2817729643 rapolu.vijaya@kaviconsultinginc.com Bid Details Date: 3/05/2024 Time: 1:00 PM CST Location: 1011 Highway 6S, Suite No. 307, Houston, TX 77077

Houston, Texas 77077 kaviconsultinginc.com

Board Certified Gastroenterologist Gastroenterology Associates of Texas, PA Gregory L. Shannon, MD

17510 West Grand Parkway South, Suite 220 Sugar Land, TX 77479 www.GregoryShannonMD.com

I will devote my expertise to advocate for good government and Precinct 3 residents through collaboration across Fort Bend County.

Political Advertising Paid for by the Allen Bogard Campaign. EXPERTISE: MY CONTRIBUTION 20 year Sugar Land City Manager Knowledge of Precinct 3 GOOD GOVERNMENT: MY PASSION Transparent Decision Making Public Interest First www.AllenBogard.com ADVOCATE: MY PURPOSE Return for County Taxes Paid Basic Services, The Priority COLLABORATION: MY MEANS Partner With All Levels of Government Advance Non-Partisan Solutions

www.AllenBogard.com

Political Advertising Paid for by the Allen Bogard Campaign.

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY MARCH 5TH � EARLY VOTING FEB 20- MAR 1

Political Advertising Paid for by the Allen Bogard Campaign. www.AllenBogard.com www.AllenBogard.com www.AllenBogard.com Political Advertising Paid for by the Allen Bogard Campaign. Political Advertising Paid for by the Allen Bogard Campaign.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

State House District 76, Republican Primary

*INCUMBENT

Dayo David Occupation: accountant/attorney Experience: worked with mental health and human service agencies; performed pro bono legal service for indigents www.dayodavidfortexas.com

Summara Kanwal Occupation: homemaker Experience: first time running for office www.leaveourkidsalonetx.com

Lea C.S. Simmons Occupation: candidate for Texas House District 76 Experience: Republican precinct chair since 2019 www.leacssimmons.com

What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them if elected?

Some of the biggest challenges facing the district are economic development, population growth, infrastructural development, quality education, transportation and health care access. District 76 is a product of the rapid population growth in Fort Bend County. We will collaborate with constituents, community leaders and all government strata to address these challenges.

... I will work hard to get a comprehensive Parents Bill of Rights to make sure parents are in charge of their kids’ lives and school boards or admin or teachers are not grooming the kids.

I truly believe that the redistricting of the four precincts in Fort Bend County and in District 76 has affected lifestyles and schools, to also creating higher taxes. I want to represent District 76 by reaching out to the Commissioners Court and to the county judge.

State House District 76, Democratic Primary

Vanesia R. Johnson Occupation: psychotherapist and licensed clinical social worker Experience: public policy advisory experience; compliance and performance improvement professional www.voteforvanesiatx.com

Suleman Lalani* Occupation: physician

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

Experience: state Rep. House District 76; practicing physician; geriatric medicine; board member, former president Exchange Club of Fort Bend www.drlalanifortexas.com

and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them if elected?

Access to health care—my priority remains medicaid expansion. Sustainable public school funding— funding that is long-term to assure we retain teacher talent and provide resources to students. Women’s reproductive rights—as a doctor, I support a woman’s right to choose. We can’t play politics with the lives of Texas women.

Texas HD76 is comprised of several low performing schools needing highly trained and competitively compensated teachers. Student success is directly linked to teacher quality. I would fight for school districts to be adequately funded, so they can hire dual language instructors, certified special education teachers, and wrap around services personnel.

5 PRIORITIES TO DELIVER IMMEDIATE RESULTS FOR FORT BEND SLASH TOLL ROAD FEES FIX POTHOLES IN 24 HOURS GIVE YOU A VOICE IN BUDGETING EXPAND PUBLIC SAFETY PROGRAMS CUT TAXES

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

FOR TARAL'S FULL VISION

EARLY VOTING: FEB. 20-MARCH 1

ELECTION DAY: MARCH 5

@TARALPATELTX

POL. AD. PAID FOR BY TARAL PATEL CAMPAIGN

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Transportation

Events

BY RACHEL LELAND

BY ASIA ARMOUR

New AI technology in Sugar Land aims to improve safety, traffic flow

• Feb. 15, 8 p.m. • Tickets start at $65

February

• 18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land • www.smartfinancialcentre.net

System abilities Agenda documents show the new system will do the following:

Sugar Land Heritage Hike The Sugar Land Heritage Foundation will guide groups through a walking tour of Old Sugar Land, starting at the museum on Kempner Street and trailing 1.5 miles. • Feb. 10, 10 a.m. • $10 (adults), $5 (kids ages 12-18), free (kids age 12 and under) • 198 Kempner St., Bldg. B (2nd floor), Sugar Land • www.slheritage.org Valentine’s Day Cupcake Decorating Play Street Museum asks parents to bring their little Valentines for cupcake decorating and playtime. The venue is an indoor play space directed toward the healthy development of young children. • Feb. 14, 4:30-6 p.m. • $20 per child • 1912 Wescott Ave., Ste. 248, Sugar Land • www.playstreetmuseum.com ’90s Pop Tour Mexican pop bands such as Magneto, JNS, Sentidos Opuestos, Kabah and Calo will play live at the ’90s Pop Tour stop at the Smart Financial Centre. The artists will perform their hits from the decade.

Jerry Seinfield Live Comedian and actor Jerry Seinfield stops in Sugar Land to perform new material at the Smart Financial Centre. The entertainer is known for his self-titled NBC series, which has won numerous Emmy, Golden Globe and People’s Choice awards, and was named greatest television show of all time in 2009 by TV Guide. • Feb. 23, 7 p.m. • Tickets start at $69 Sugar Land College Classic Baseball fans can visit Constellation Field for a weekend face-off between University of Illinois-Chicago, Lamar University, Stephen F. Austin State University, The University of Texas at San Antonio, Creighton University and Houston Christian University. • 18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land • www.smartfinancialcentre.net • Feb. 23-25; 10 a.m. (Fri. and Sat.), 9 a.m. (Sun.) • $15 (adults), $12 (kids), free (kids age 3 and under) • 1 Stadium Drive, Sugar Land • www.milb.com

Detect and quantify pedestrians and bicycle crossing, leading to safer operations at intersections

Drivers and pedestrians in Sugar Land will soon be monitored by an artificial intelligence-powered traffic system to be installed on 92 traffic signals as part of the city’s efforts to improve traffic safety. The gist On Jan. 16, Sugar Land City Council voted to pur- chase NoTraffic’s AI Detection System from Texas Highway Products, which will cost $2.7 million. The traffic detection system uses radar, video and vision AI technologies to distinguish vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians before processing the data and sending it to a cloud-based data analytics software for further processing, according to agenda documents. Sugar Land first began testing NoTraffic’s AI Detection system in August 2022. “The city is in the process of building that next

generation of intelligent transportation systems,” City Traffic Engineer James Turner said. “We’re looking for systems that extend our capabilities, make our roads safer, more efficient, make us more proactive when it comes to mobility.” City Attorney Meredith Reide said the AI system will not be used by law enforcement, given that Texas state lawmakers voted to prohibit traffic enforcement with cameras in 2019. “There may be a possibility for a civil situation, but there is no way this information could be used in a criminal [case] because of that state law,” Reide said. Next steps City officials estimate the project will begin in February and take six to eight months to complete.

Measure signal delays by time pedestrians or vehicles spent at intersections

Measure what percent of vehicles arrive during green and red intervals

Venardos Circus This Broadway-style, animal-free circus’ first stop in its 10th anniversary will be Sugar Land’s Crown Festival Plaza. The entertainment group aims to reinvent the American circus tradition by adding the flair of the theater with an intimate and sentimental experience, according to its website. • Feb. 22-March 3, times vary by date • $16.95 and up (ages 2-12), $27.95 and up (adults) • 18355 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land • www.venardoscircus.com

Detect stalled vehicles and accidents at the intersection

Detect red light running

SOURCE: CITY OF SUGAR LAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SUGAR LAND 3335 Hwy 6 S (281) 313-4446 MISSOURI CITY 5418 Hwy 6 (281) 403-0400

SUGAR CREEK 13827 Southwest Fwy (281) 491-8628 SIENNA PLANTATION 9034 Sienna Crossing Dr (281) 778-9959

NEW TERRITORY 5720 New Territory Blvd (281) 491-0811

Lower your property taxes with Texas Protax Experts working to get you the property tax reduction you deserve

Your Texas property tax experts, helping you lower your property tax bill for 35 years Your Texas property tax experts, lowering your property tax bill for more than 35 years.

EASTER AT HOUSTON’S FIRST! CELEBRATE

SAT, MAR 30 5P • 6:30P SUN, MAR 31 8A • 9:30A • 11A • 12:30P

GREGG MATTE, PASTOR MALCOLM MARSHALL, CAMPUS PASTOR SUNDAYS @ 8:30A • 9:45A • 11:15A 4309 SIENNA PARKWAY HOUSTONSFIRST.ORG

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

Sugar Land- and Missouri City-area ZIP codes saw a decrease in the number of homes sold in December compared to December 2022, with 179 homes sold versus 236 the previous December. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

December 2022

December 2023

-26%

-21.05%

-15.79%

-50%

-17.65%

77459

77478

77479

77489

77498

77478

77498

77489

99 TOLL

Median home sales price

77479

December

2022

2023

$408,000 $380,000 $536,000 $245,000 $318,250

$409,001 $440,000 $623,750 $223,000 $290,500

77459

77478

Homes sold by price point

77479

77489

December 2023

77498

$850,000+

$650,000-$849,999

Average days on market

December 2022

December 2023

$450,000-$649,999

+18.57%

+54.35%

-38.75%

-21.43%

+56.41%

$250,000-$449,999

<$249,999

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY ALINA ROGERS SPARROW REALTY • 281-961-2944 ALINAWROGERS@YAHOO.COM

77459

77478

77479

77489

77498

2:00 pm • Stafford Centre 10505 Cash Road, Stafford, TX Tickets: FBSO.org February 18, 2024