Bellaire - Meyerland - West University | October 2023

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Bellaire Meyerland West University Edition VOLUME 5, ISSUE 6 OCT. 7NOV. 2, 2023

2023 Voter Guide

A crowd of more than 100 people showed up to hear candidates in Houston’s mayoral election discuss their transportation priorities at a Sept. 23 forum hosted by LINK Houston.

SHAWN ARRAJJCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Houston’s next mayor to face budget, planning decisions

weekly meetings as well as a vote on each item. However, a ballot proposition this year could also put some power back in the hands of council members.

the Nov. 7 election, and whoever wins will have the task of balancing the city’s budget. Houston’s mayor is considered one of the most powerful in the U.S., experts said, with the power to single-handedly determine the agenda for Houston City Council’s

BY SHAWN ARRAJJ & LEAH FOREMAN

After eight years under the leadership of Sylvester Turner, Houston will have a new mayor in January. Seventeen candidates led to run for the seat in

CONTINUED ON 9

Also in this issue

Impacts: Family Place Library opens in West U (Page 6)

Voter Guide: Candidates running in Houston, Bellaire (Page 7)

Transportation: City studies Willowbend connectivity (Page 15)

Dining: Jax Grill celebrates 30 years in Bellaire (Page 17)

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There’s a little bit of all of us at Miller... For 100 years, Miller Outdoor Theatre has delighted generations of audiences with the best in performing arts entertainment. And every performance free. Located in Hermann Park. Visit milleroutdoortheatre.com for the complete calendar.

Don’t miss Miller’s fall season. NOW THROUGH NOV. 11. Plus, one final epic Celebrate Miller 100! event!

NOVEMBER 11 — A Steampunk Spectacular. Dress in your best Steampunk costume and step back in time through machines, performances, photo installations and more all ending in a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration between Bella Gaia and William Close & The Earth Harp Collective, bringing the magic of both shows together. Two Earth harps will frame the stage and the spectacular sounds combine with the visual story of BELLA GAIA (beautiful earth) blending music, visually-stunning dance with motion sculpture—by Capacitor—along with NASA satellite imagery to tell a cosmic story. Bringing together two of the most popular shows touring in recent years, this dynamic combination is unique and is sure to be a highlight of the anniversary season. SEASON FINALE.

BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION

Whatever happens in our community, we’re here, ready to serve. Providing Level I trauma care at Ben Taub Hospital for people experiencing the worst day of their lives. Reaching out to families struggling to find or afford healthy food. Offering the gold standard in nursing at our Magnet®-recognized Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital. Treating everyone with respect, compassion and gratitude for giving us the opportunity to care for them, work with them, know them. You may not know our name. And that’s okay.

YOU’LL KNOW US BY THE WORK WE DO.

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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 Joe Edwards Melissa Enaje Leah Foreman Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Shaheryar Khan Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning James T. Norman Jessica Shorten Lizzy Spangler Graphic Designers Jatziri Garcia Chad Inmon Ellen Jackson Martha Risinger La’Toya Smith Jesus Verastegui Taylor White

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Shawn Arrajj Senior Editor

Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Kasey Salisbury Account Executive Holly Nunez Managing Editor Kelly Schafler Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt

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Call or Scan Here for a FREE CONSULTATION

• Car Accidents • Trucking Accident • Work Injury

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BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION

Impacts

BY ASIA ARMOUR, SHAWN ARRAJJ & MELISSA ENAJE

Expansion

W E S T H E I M E R R D .

BINZ ST.

HERMANN PARK

UNIVERSITY BLVD.

288

W. HOLCOMBE BLVD.

610

BUFFALO SPEEDWAY

5 West University Branch Library The library was expanded with new Family Place Library features, which involved creating a physical space for family engagement programming, including early literacy and parent education. Family Place libraries offer a free five-week program, during which parents can meet with professionals who can answer questions on literacy, speech development, nutrition and health. • Expanded Sept. 14. • 6108 Auden St., Houston • https://hcpl.net/locations/wu

MAP NOT TO SCALE

BEECHNUT ST.

3 Salad & Go The eatery brings high-quality, made-to-order salads, wraps, soups and breakfast options as well as handcrafted lemonades, teas and cold brews to consumers looking for fresh, affordable and quick meals while on the go. • Opened Sept. 16 • 3161 Chimney Rock Road, Houston • www.saladandgo.com

Now open

S. POST OAK RD.

1 The Museo Institute for Medical Arts This 10-story building in Houston’s Museum District is part of a mixed-use urban project combining art, science and culture. It aims to bridge the healing arts with the visual arts. The professional medical tower was designed by PJMD Architects’ Marko Dasigenis in collaboration with architect Huitt-Zollars. • Opened Sept. 21 2 The Houston Methodist Tech Hub A new collaborative space for health care innovation opened in the Ion building in Midtown under the direction of the Houston Methodist Hospital system. Officials called the 1,200-square-foot space a “living laboratory for digital health technology.” In it, health care professionals can access simulated environments for an inpatient hospital room, outpatient doctor clinics and patient home experiences. • Opened Aug. 28 • 4201 Main St., Houston • www.houstonmethodist.org/center-for-innovation • 5115 Fannin St., Houston • www.museohouston.com

Relocations

Coming soon

6 The Missing Piece The Missing Piece, a small-business incubator that provides retail space and an online presence for local and female business owners in Houston, will relocate to a new location at 2371 Rice Blvd., Houston. An opening date for the new location has not yet been identified by owner Robert O’Bannon, but the shop will continue to offer seasonal gifts, home goods, jewelry and other local artisan goods. • Relocation date TBD • 2371 Rice Blvd., Houston • www.instagram.com/missing_piece_boutique

4 Dak & Bop After closing its flagship store in 2020, Dak & Bop—a Korean-influenced restaurant—marks its return to the Museum District with a 2,000-square-foot space at the Parc Binz mixed-use development near Hermann Park. Guests can expect a curated menu that blends beloved classics with innovative additions. Features include double-fried wings, bulgogi macaroni and cheese and the brand’s signature kimchi fries.

• Opening in late 2023 • 1801 Binz St., Houston • www.dakandbop.com

CALLING ALL TEACHERS FIND OUT WHY HOUSTON IS A TOP PLACE TO BE A TEACHER!

A COLLECTIVE EFFORT MADE POSSIBLE BY

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY SHAWN ARRAJJ

Voter Guide

2023

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races. This list does not include write-in candidates.

*INCUMBENT

City Council, District C Perata PB Bradley Felix Javier Cisneros Abbie Kamin* City Council, at-large Position 1 Kendall Baker Eriq C. Glenn Melanie Miles Julian Ramirez Conchita Reyes Leah Wolfthal City Council, at-large Position 2 Danielle Keys Bess Marina Angelica Coryat Willie Davis Nick Hellyar Obioha “Obes” Nwabara Holly Flynn Vilaseca City Council, at-large Position 3 Bernard “Bernardo” Amadi Richard Cantu Twila Carter Donnell Cooper Casey Curry Ethan Michelle Ganz James Joseph Erica McCrutcheon

Richard Nguyen City Council, at-large Position 4 John Branch Jr. Roy Morales Andrew “Drew” Patterson Letitia Plummer* City Council, at-large Position 5 Sallie Alcorn*

Dates to know

Oct. 23: First day of early voting Oct. 27: Last day to apply for ballot by mail Nov. 3: Last day of early voting Nov. 7: Election Day, last day to receive ballot by mail

Sample ballot

J. Brad Batteau Rigo Hernandez

City of Houston Mayor Gaylon S. Caldwell Jack Christie Robert Gallegos Annie “Mama” Garcia Gilbert Garcia M. “Griff” Griffin Naoufal Houjami B. Ivy Sheila Jackson Lee Lee Kaplan M.J. Khan David C. Lowy Julian “Bemer” Martinez Chanel Mbala Kathy Lee Tatum Roy Vasquez John Whitmire

City of Bellaire Mayor Gus E. Pappas Aaron Perry Nathan Wesely City Council, Place 2 Catherine Lewis* Mike Stanton City Council, Place 4 Elan Tavor

Cindy Cohen Taylor City Council, Place 6 Jacqueline Georgiou Kevin Newman Find the full list of races up for election and ballot propositions at www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide .

SOURCES: CITY OF HOUSTON, CITY OF BELLAIRE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION

Election

BY MELISSA ENAJE

INSPIRED VOICES

Bellaire mayor

Gus E. Pappas Occupation : attorney at law Experience : eight years on Bellaire City Council, four as mayor pro tem www.guspappasforbellaire.com

Why have you chosen to run for Bellaire mayor? I chose to run for mayor because I have the experience, skills and background to lead, follow or support council, staff and Bellaire residents to achieve.

Our residents are one of the best reasons to join us at The Tradition. Here is what one of our residents has to say about what contributes to her enjoyment: “I love so many things at The Tradition that I am not sure if I could just pick one. There’s companionship if you want it; there’s a book club if you want it; there’s art if you want it; there’s always food if you want it; and there’s always a cocktail if you want it. It’s like living in a hotel, so it’s kind of a vacation just to live here. Why wouldn’t I tell someone? I am thrilled to be here. And I would tell them to please come; it’s just a fabulous place, and you’ll meet wonderful people.” I hope that you consider a new way of living and join us at The Tradition. Please make an appointment to tour our beautiful Community, meet residents firsthand and learn more. I look forward to welcoming you home!

Aaron Perry Occupation : trial lawyer who owns and manages a civil practice law firm in Bellaire Experience : husband and father; former Texas felony prosecutor; founder, Perry Law Firm; Bellaire Little League coach and proud resident https://aaronforbellaire.com

Why have you chosen to run for Bellaire mayor? I love Bellaire. I want to serve our community and our children. We have many challenges we must address for our city. Citizen safety should always be at the top. Our amazing police and fire departments need support and funding to keep us safe. We must always support them!

Founder & CEO The Tradition

Nathan Wesely Occupation : attorney

Experience : current Bellaire City Council member; board of adjustments for six years, two as chair; Bellaire Business Association; ran a business https://www.wesely.io

TEXAS FAMILY-OWNED AND MANAGED INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE WWW.THETRADITION.COM THE TRADITION–BUFFALO SPEEDWAY 9339 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77025 Independent Living (713) 715-1905 Assisted Living & Memory Care (713) 715-1902

Why have you chosen to run for Bellaire mayor? I am running to ensure all residents are heard, and that the city should be run efficiently with transparency and accountability. It is important to ask the hard questions and make the hard decisions. I want Bellaire to have fiscal discipline based on sustainable and affordable long-term plans.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Houston’s next mayor to face budget, planning decisions From the cover BY SHAWN ARRAJJ & LEAH FOREMAN

Several representatives of community groups in the Meyerland and Brays Bayou areas spoke in interviews with Community Impact about what they view as top issues facing the city that they would like the next mayor to tackle.

What they're saying

Two-minute impact

Turner’s successor will have roughly six months after the election before significant budget decisions must be made, Houston Controller Chris Brown said. When Turner entered office, he faced a $160 million budget hole, and he will leave with a $400 million surplus. However, Brown said Turner has balanced several budgets with one-time funding sources, including federal coronavirus relief funding from programs such as the American Rescue Plan Act. “The challenge with using one-time financing sources to shore up a budget gap is they are exactly that: they’re one-time,” Brown said. “So you find that you’ll have that money this year, but then you’ve got to figure out what happens the following year.” In 2016, the estimated structural deficit was $150 million. It rose to an estimated $300 million in 2023, Brown said. In public statements, Turner has pointed to the city’s general fund reserve of more than $400 million as an asset for the next mayor. The general fund reserves function as a piggy bank. By city charter they must never fall below 7.5% of the general fund expenditures, minus debt service, or roughly $220 million in fiscal year 2023-24. Brown estimated the city will need to lay off 3,000 employees by FY 2025-26. The city of Houston did not respond to requests for comment. However, Brown applauded Turner’s work to lower the city’s unfunded pension liability—the difference between the estimated cost of future benefits and the assets set aside to pay for them—which decreased from about $8.2 billion to around $2 billion.

“I would like to see a greater emphasis from the next mayor on subterranean [flood control] infrastructure. The surface options are extremely limited in the Brays Bayou watershed in particular, which is 99% developed.” CHARLES GOFORTH, PRESIDENT, BRAYS BAYOU ASSOCIATION

“Crime, particularly gang-related crime. … This means getting at the root causes and requires a return to neighborhood policing and openness to the idea of police substations located near areas where crime is intense.” GROUP STATEMENT FROM OFFICIALS WITH MEYERLAND SUPER NEIGHBORHOOD NO. 31

Zooming in

insight into the process, said Renee Cross, senior executive director with the University of Hous- ton’s Hobby School of Public Affairs. Two early decisions will involve transition teams and the potential naming of new department heads. Department heads Some mayoral transitions will also result in replacing department heads that could better reflect the goals and ideology of the next mayor, Cross said. 1992 mayoral transition When former Mayor Bob Lanier replaced Kathy Whitmire, many people were swept out of top positions in the city, Cross said. The two had a contentious relationship, she said. 2004 mayoral transition Historically, changes of department heads have also depended on the experience level of the incoming mayor as well as the department heads themselves, Cross said. When Bill White became mayor in 2004, his only other experience as an elected official was his time serving as party chair for the Texas Democratic Party. Someone in that situation may be more likely to rely on people who are already in place, Cross said.

Following the November election and a likely runoff election in December, Houston’s next mayor will take over in January. What happens next will largely depend on which candidate wins, but past mayoral transitions can give some Transition teams The next mayor will assemble teams of advisers to provide guidance on key issues. These teams will likely be put into place immediately and cover areas that voters have expressed concerns with, Cross said. The Hobby School surveyed 800 likely voters in July on their top priorities for the next mayor, she said.

Crime was named the top priority by 83% of respondents and will likely be a top focus early on for the next mayor, who could lean on the advice of Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner, Cross said. Road conditions are a top priority for 65% of respondents, but poor street conditions rose to the top priority when they were asked about problems within their own communities. Economic development is a top priority for 65% of respondents, tied with road conditions. Cross said the mayor is limited in passing economic policies.

83%

65%

Houston general fund balance Although Houston’s general fund reserves have increased since 2021, the city has also used one-time federal funding to help balance its budget over that time.

65%

General fund reserves

SOURCE: UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON HOBBY SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

$304.1M $311.9M

FY 2022-23 FY 2021-22 FY 2023-24*

$401M

What's next

ARPA funds used to balance budget

$198.6M

FY 2023-24* FY 2022-23 FY 2021-22

place an item on weekly agendas if it has support from at least two other members. “As far as weekly council operations and the ability to focus on some items that perhaps the mayor does not want to necessarily address at that time, it’s pretty major,” Cross said.

The new mayor will take on what is regarded as one of the most powerful mayoral seats in the U.S., Cross said. However, Houston voters will get the chance to approve or reject Proposition A on ballots this November, she said. Proposition A, if passed, would allow any member of the council to

$160.1M

$160M

SOURCES: CITY OF HOUSTON, HOUSTON CONTROLLER’S OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT *PROJECTED

BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION

Election

Houston mayor

If elected, what would your top priorities be entering your rst year in oce?

Gaylon S. Caldwell Occupation: emergency management specialist Relevant experience: emergency management professional; former volunteer reghter/emergency medical technician

Annie “Mama” Garcia Occupation: divorce attorney, executive director of OpHeart Relevant experience: I am a dual Spanish-American citizen, Rice [University] alumnus https://mamaformayor.com

Naoufal Houjami Occupation: businessman , U.S. national security strategist, author Relevant experience: over 25 years of experience [as a] businessman www.houjamifortexas.webador.com

Priority 1: save black male youth; Priority 2: marijuana- friendly policing; Priority 3: gun control through rearm safety, education and awareness; Priority 4: safe neighborhood parks initiative; Priority 5: expand the stang and capabilities of the city of Houston Oce of Emergency Management; Priority 6: maintain the best Houston Fire and [Emergency Medical Service] agency ...

Expand the Parks & Recreation Department to provide after-school, summer programs and tutorials to Houston students, provide a library to every [New Education System] school through the Houston Public Library system and whatever else we can to get the state out of our schools and return to an elected school board.

1: Improve transparency, ethical practices and less bureaucracy [in] permitting, create city manager; 2: xing the crisis of aordable housing; 3: lower crimes and violence; 4: improve ood recovery and resiliency eorts; 5: employment and economic opportunities for all Houston

Jack Christie Occupation: chiropractor

Gilbert Garcia Occupation: managing partner Relevant experience: member of the [U.S. Securities Exchange Commission]’s Fixed Income Market Structure Advisory Committee www.garciaforhouston.com

B. Ivy Occupation: Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time. Relevant experience: Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

Relevant experience: Three-term Houston City Councilman at-large; former chairman of the State Board of Education www.christieformayor.com

Public safety is number one, and I’ve been calling for hiring 500 new [Houston Police Department] ocers for years. Our reghters deserve a pay raise, and it’s long overdue. Infrastructure and quality of life—we have got to get the basics right.

I have released a pledge to Houston with all the issues that I would tackle in my rst 100 days. You can read at www.garciaforhouston.com. My top three issues are public safety, ooding and cleaning out corruption from City Hall. I want to create a taskforce and audit departments.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

Robert Gallegos Occupation: Houston City Council Member District I Relevant experience: Houston City Council Member District I; Harris County Sheri’s [Oce], jailer www.voterobertgallegos.com

M. “Gri” Grin Occupation: Candidate did not respond. Relevant experience: Candidate did not respond.

Sheila Jackson Lee Occupation: U.S. representative Relevant experience: practicing attorney; Texas deputy commissioner of agriculture; municipal court judge; [former] at-large council member www.sheilaforhouston.com

Reducing crime; improving infrastructure (including streets and replacing aged water, sewer and drainage lines); solid waste department picking up trash on schedule; and making sure all city departments are providing timely, ecient and courteous service to all Houstonians. Seniors-rst policy, capping city water tax rate for seniors at 65 years of age ...

During my rst year I would concentrate on making Houston one of the safest cities in the country, and I will make sure that ooding risks are lowered and investigate why our Houston streets and trac problems are not being taken care of.

• Crime • Permitting reform • Aordable housing • Infrastructure

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SHAWN ARRAJJ & LEAH FOREMAN

Lee Kaplan Occupation: attorney Relevant experience: small business owner and job creator; attorney; community and civic leader https://kaplanforhoustonmayor.com

Julian “Bemer” Martinez Occupation: business owner, Bemer Motor Cars Relevant experience: I am a successful business owner in the Westchase area for 38 years www.jmartinez2024.com

Roy Vasquez Occupation: learning and development director Relevant experience: 10+ years learning/education leader; community volunteer www.royvasquezformayor.com

I will focus on the basics: crime, infrastructure and trac, and making sure the garbage is picked up in every neighborhood. I’ll tackle these problems head-on to move our city forward. I won’t get distracted by petty arguments or rhetorical disputes as we focus on what needs to get done.

As mayor of Houston I plan to address the issues like ooding, road repairs, the unhoused community, trac congestion and public transportation are some, and a decrease in crime. Additionally, sewage system management, recycling services and proper drainage remain top priorities for Houstonians.

Reducing homelessness and providing better social assistance to those in need; animal welfare: educating/ raising public awareness, increased funding for our shelters, reducing number of healthy animals that are euthanized in our shelters; improved ooding resilience

M. J. Khan Occupation: businessman; candidate for mayor of Houston Relevant experience: MBA, Rice University; former Houston City Council District F, 2004-09 www.mjkhan.com

Chanel Mbala Occupation: IT professional and Uber Black driver Relevant experience: over 15 years of IT expertise, problem-solving skills and innovative solutions. www.chanel4mayor.com

John Whitmire Occupation: Texas state senator/ attorney Relevant experience: Texas House of Representatives, 10 years; Texas Senate, 40 years www.johnwhitmire.com

Public safety: add 500 police ocers, blight out of neighborhoods; infrastructure: repair roads, drainage, water lines; ecient government: eliminate waste and inuence of special interests, practice meritocracy; balance budget; rein in [Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County] and [tax increment reinvestment zones]; improve relationship with state government

If elected, my top priorities would include addressing public safety, improving infrastructure and promoting aordable housing.

Public safety, including re, police and municipal employees; city infrastructure, including streets, water lines, ooding and drainage; city services, including garbage pickup, outrageous water bills, illegal dumping, a barely functioning permitting oce; budget, transparency and ethics

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50

David C. Lowy Occupation: husband, father, candidate for mayor Relevant experience: president, middle school honor society 1968-69 www.lowyformayor.com

Kathy Lee Tatum Occupation: Candidatedid not respond to questionnaire before press time. Relevant experience: Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

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.

To meet with every single area of the city and nd out what people need; to drive every single road in Houston and see what needs urgent attention; to make city departments more cost eective, responsive and eective; to show people how they can be happier, more eective and powerful

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

BELLAIRE MEYERLAND WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION

Government

Real estate

COMPILED BY SHAWN ARRAJJ & LEAH FOREMAN

Houston OKs repairs on I-69 bridge lights Houston City Council passed an item at a Sept. 20 meeting approving a collaboration between the city and Houston First Corporation on the repair and upkeep of the decorative lights on bridges over the Southwest Freeway. The current situation The lights, which were installed in 2017 ahead of Super Bowl LI, have been defunct for months. The collaboration serves to repair the lights and maintain them for the next decade. The details The project is estimated to cost $4 million over the next 10 years, and the city will pay two-thirds of the cost, or $2.7 million, in fiscal year 2023-24. Houston First, the city’s marketing branch, will pay one-third and will cover any overruns in installation and maintenance for the

City of Bellaire adopts new noise policies Bellaire City Council unanimously adopted a new city noise ordinance at a Sept. 11 meeting in an effort to provide more structure and hold violators accountable. The big picture During quiet hours—Sun.-Thu. before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. before 7 a.m. or after 11 p.m.—the maximum noise decibel level is 60 decibels in residential zones and 67 decibels in nonresidential zones. During nonquiet hours—Sun.-Thu. from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. from 7 a.m.- 11 p.m.—the maximum decibel level is 75 decibels in residential zones and 80 decibels in nonresidential zones. Fines will be no less than $150 for the first offense and no less than $500 for subse- quent violations.

Number of homes sold

August 2022

August 2023

Residential market data

22 24

40 27

+9.1%

-32.5%

77005

77096

The total number of homes sold was largely flat in four of five local ZIP codes when comparing August 2023 to August 2022, varying only by 2-3 homes. Total sales dropped in 77096 ZIP code, which covers the Meyerland area.

26 28

14 17

+7.7%

+21.4%

77025

77401

6 4

-33.3%

77030

next decade. The installation will include new technology, Mayor Sylvester Turner said. The lights were originally installed and maintained by the Montrose Management District, which has since dissolved. Quote of note “I think we’re all familiar with the decorative lights across [I-69],” Turner said to the council members. “You talk about adding to the beautifi- cation of the city and that whole area. I know in just driving through, over the years, I’ve heard from so many people how attractive the city looked with those lights changing colors.”

610

Median home sales price

2022

2023

77005

-8.9%

$1,490,000

$1,635,311

288

77025

+7.2%

$540,000

$503,894

77005 77096

77025 77401

77030

+54.9%

$1,587,500

$1,025,000

NEIGHBORHOOD DATA PROVIDED BY ALINA ROGERS SPARROW REALTY • 281-961-2944 WWW.SPARROW-REALTY.COM

77096

+23%

$492,000

$400,000

77401

+2.8%

$1,068,000

$1,038,500

BUFFALO SPEEDWAY 9733 Buffalo Speedway (713) 838-7486

HOLCOMBE 2314 W Holcombe Blvd (713) 669-1722

WESLAYAN 3902 Bissonnet (713) 218-8144

King & Spalding’s

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OCTOBER OPEN HOUSE October 26, 2023, 5:00pm The best way to learn about Westbury Christian School is to experi- ence our community yourself! Join us for our October Open House to meet our faculty, staff, and students, tour our school halls and classrooms, experience our school community, and get your ques- tions answered! We cannot wait to welcome you to our campus!

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY SHAWN ARRAJJ & LEAH FOREMAN

Upcoming project

SANDS POINT DR

610

Bellaire

Westwood

4 Willowbend Boulevard improvements

Project: Improvements at several intersections are meant to address gaps in connectivity that limit access to key services and destinations. Update: Findings were presented to residents at an Aug. 16 public meeting. Project priorities were determined throughout September. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding source: city of Houston

WILLOWBEND BLVD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

Update: Design work is completed, and the project is working its way through the permitting process. • Timeline: summer 2025-TBD • Cost: $1.6M

Upcoming projects

Ongoing projects

1 Fondren Road Project: A broader project to add new concrete paving, storm drainage, sidewalks and street lighting along Fondren Road will also include new bike lanes. Update: The project is 30% of the way through the design phase, and an advanced funding agreement with the Texas Department of Transportation is pending approval. • Timeline: summer 2024-TBD • Cost: $28.4M • Funding source: city of Houston, Texas Department of Transportation (pending approval)

2 Sharpstown Trail, Segment 2 Project: The Houston Parks Board has completed the design phase of a project to add a 1.8-mile hike and bike trail along a Centerpoint Energy utility corridor parallel to Gessner Road. Update: The permitting process has been completed. • Timeline: summer 2025-TBD • Cost: $2.8M

• Funding source: Houston Parks Board 5 Brays Bayou trail, north side

Project: Work on the 1-mile trail involves replacing existing 8-foot asphalt trails with 10-foot concrete trails. Update: Design work is completed, and officials are awaiting permit approval from the city of Houston. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding source: Houston Parks Board

• Funding source: Houston Parks Board 3 Sharpstown Trail, Segment 3

Project: The next segment of the Sharpstown Trail project involves building a 0.8-mile hike and bike trail.

$ 500 OFF! * FINANCING AVAILABLE *Kitchen Cabinet, Countertop, or Bathroom Projects Restrictions apply, call for details, expires 11/6/23

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Dining

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Jax Grill balances trust and versatility with 30 years in Bellaire Jax Grill’s agship restaurant in Bellaire cele- brates its 30th anniversary in 2023. The eatery has withstood expansion, a re prompting an overhaul of the front-of-house and the fallout of a global pandemic. The key to the franchise’s endurance, owner Paul Miller said, is its versatility. “I have this thing that I tell my sta on a regular basis, and it’s [to] ‘give them the pickle,’” Miller said. “That means if somebody wants something, it’s not our job to gure out how to say no—it’s our job to gure out how to say yes.” Hitting refresh Miller took over Jax Grill in 2015. Back then, nothing had really changed about the restaurant since it was established in 1993. His plan was to implement small but meaningful adjustments that would make the space more rened, he said. These changes included adding arcade games for kids, narrowing down the menu while using all high-quality ingredients, refreshing the interior decor with new tables and chairs, etching the brand’s locale into the leather of its booths, and oering a wide selection of beers. Community staple Those minor tweaks help the restaurant stay relevant, but Miller said Jax Grill will always be consistent on its signature burgers. Miller said he takes pride in the sta, many of whom have been with the restaurant since it was founded, calling Jax an “institution that’s been in the neighborhood for years.”

Jax Grill, which can be found on South Rice Avenue in Bellaire, is well regarded for its burgers, owner Paul Miller said.

ASIA ARMOURCOMMUNITY IMPACT

610

BELLAIRE BLVD.

6510 S. Rice Ave., Bellaire www.jaxgrillhouston.com

Jax Grill owner Paul Miller said the eatery is celebrating its 30-year anniversary in 2023.

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Your Partners in Medical, Surgical, and Cosmetic Dermatology

DermSurgery Associates is proud to welcome Simo Huang MD and Julie Nguyen MD, board certified dermatologists, to our practice.

Bellaire 4747 Bellaire Blvd, Ste 240 Bellaire, TX 77401 713-669-9220

Wild Indigo 4646 Wild Indigo, Ste 100 Houston, TX 77027 713-790-9270

Call now for an appointment most insurances accepted www.dermsurgery.org

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V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable with any other c oupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, altered, sold or t ransferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be extra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not valid on FirehouseSubs.com, fi F IREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery orders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All rights reserved. Exp. 0 1/31/2024. $2OFF $ 2 OFF A MEDIUM OR L ARGE SUB, CHIP AND D RINK PURCHASE $ 2 OFF A MEDIUM OR L ARGE SUB, CHIP AND RINK PURCHASE $ 2 OFF A MEDIUM OR L ARGE SUB, CHIP AND D RINK PURCHASE O ctober is Fire Safety Month! H elp save lives while eating your f avorite subs! O ctober is Fire Safety Month! H elp save lives while eating your f avorite subs! O ctober is Fire Safety Month! H elp save lives while eating your f avorite subs! S top in to try our new Limited Time Only K ing's Hawaiian Pork & Slaw sandwich! S top in to try our new Limited Time Only K ing's Hawaiian Pork & Slaw sandwich! S top in to try our new Limited Time Only K ing's Hawaiian Pork & Slaw sandwich! O ctober is Fire Safety Month! H elp save lives while eating your f avorite subs! A sk us about our catering! S top in to try our new Limited Time Only K ing's Hawaiian Pork & Slaw sandwich! A sk us about our catering! $ 2 OFF A MEDIUM OR L ARGE SUB, CHIP AND D RINK PURCHASE A sk us about our catering! A sk us about our catering! Firehouse Subs West U 3924 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77025 713-665-7827 V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable with any other c oupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, altered, sold or t ransferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be extra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not valid on FirehouseSubs.com, fi F IREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery orders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All rights reserved. Exp. 0 1/31/2024. $2OFF V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable with any other c oupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, altered, sold or t ransferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be extra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not valid on FirehouseSubs.com, fi F IREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery orders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All rights reserved. Exp. 0 1/31/2024. $2OFF Firehouse Subs Meyerland Plaza 170 Meyerland Plz, Houston, TX 77096 713-660-7827

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Open Every Day 7am – 4 pm

Kids Eat FREE* every Wednesday

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October Special!

8110 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77054 (832) 649-5796 www.gusfriedchicken.com

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- Now open daily at 7 am - Open for brunch, lunch, dinner & Social Hour (details on our website & social media) - Highest quality & freshest ingredients sourced locally - Kids eat FREE every Tuesday

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Join us at our newest upper kirby location! 3800 Southwest Freeway, Suite 124

4191 BELLAIRE BLVD, HOUSTON, TX 77025 • 713-966-2737 WWW.DISHSOCIETY.COM

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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 10% 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

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Bring the Harvest Home

Fall is in full swing—which means peak Farmers Market season has arrived. Join us every first and third Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm for an open-air market in the heart of Houston. Discover sustainably-sourced produce, chef-made plates, fresh morning coffee, and made-to-order margaritas. Meet up with neighbors. Stroll alongside friends. Savor fall’s fresh bounty. This is where commerce and community bloom.

Amherst St. and Kelvin Dr.

@RICEVILLAGEDISTRICT

RICE-VILLAGE.COM

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Prioritize self-care. Schedule your mammogram. Take charge of your breast health with an annual mammogram. We offer convenient hours at more than 15 Greater Houston locations, near home and work. All with 3-D screening for your best chance of early detection. This is breast care designed for you. memorialhermann.org/mammo 877.40.MAMMO (62666)

Advancing health. Personalizing care.

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