The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
Bellaire Meyerland West University Edition VOLUME 6, ISSUE 1 MAY 2 JUNE 5, 2024 A N
Two Houston re ghters inspect equipment during an afternoon shift April 12 on an engine stationed at Houston Fire Station No. 2 on Woodway Drive.
CASSANDRA JENKINS COMMUNITY IMPACT
Houston’s budget shortfall grows in wake of re ghter payout
A week after the report, Houston Mayor John Whitmire released the terms of a historic re ghter agreement, which comes with a $650 million price tag that could result in budget cuts and tax rate increases.
Houston’s Director of Finance Melissa Dubowski gave a nancial update March 6 at a City Council meeting sharing the details of the city’s future budgetary health, which includes an approxi- mately $160 million-$200 million shortfall in scal year 2024-25.
BY CASSANDRA JENKINS
The nancial implications of a recently announced settlement between the city of Houston and the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Associ- ation could further exacerbate an already looming budget shortfall.
CONTINUED ON 10
Also in this issue
Impacts: Maximo brings fast- casual Mexican to West U (Page 4)
Education: HISD exploring potential bond election (Page 6)
Transportation: Planned bridge named after late rabbi (Page 7)
Dining: Southwell’s Hamburger Grill keeps it simple (Page 16)
# 1 HOSPITAL IN TEXAS FOR PATIENT CARE & SAFETY *
For more than 100 years, we have provided patients with the best — and safest — clinical care, advanced technology and patient experience. That is our promise of leading medicine.
houstonmethodist.org/bestintexas 713.790.3333
*Two-way tie
2
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
Don’t miss local dining updates
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Angela Bonilla Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Jatziri Garcia Ellen Jackson Matt Mills Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White
Shawn Arrajj Senior Editor
Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Account Executive Holly Nunez Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt
Jason Culpepper Publisher
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
Proudly printed by
16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281 469 6181 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases bmwnews@communityimpact.com Advertising bmwads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising
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.
Sydney Womack
Call or Scan Here for a FREE CONSULTATION
• Car Accidents • Trucking Accident • Work Injury
• Medical Malpractice • Wernicke • Wills & Estates
Attorney Meyerland Resident
(713) 322-9993 • www.WomackTrialLawyers.com • Se Habla Español
3
BELLAIRE MEYERLAND WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Impacts
5 SimonONE Center The center by Simon Imaging provides whole-body, preventative MRI scans aimed at detecting certain diseases and cancers. • Opened April 22 • 2256 W. Holcombe Blvd., Houston • www.simonmed.com Assisted Living Locators The online company offers senior placement and referral services in the Southwest Houston area for assisted living and in-home care options. • Opened April 15 • www.assistedlivinglocators.com/sw-houston
15
W E S T H E I M E R R D .
4
GREENWAY PLAZA
9
8
3
M O
69
69
11
59
2
West University Place
RICEBLVD.
12
HERMANN PARK
1
UNIVERSITY BLVD.
5
13
14B
.
W. HOLCOMBE BLVD.
UNIVERSITY BLVD.
6
7
BUFFALO SPEEDWAY
Bellaire
Coming soon
90
610
6 Gold Tooth Tony’s Pizzeria The pizzeria will specialize in Detroit-style pizza, which has thick, doughy crust, crispy cheese and dollops of sauce, baked in steel pans. Other menu items will include sandwiches, wings, garlic knots and lasagna. • Opening late summer 7 Fred Astaire Dance Studio The studio provides social and ballroom dance education for all ages across a variety of styles. Guests can learn how to dance in a private one-on-one lesson, in a group setting or during practice parties. • Opening in June • 5225 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire • www.goldtoothtonys.com 8 Haii Keii The steak and sushi concept from Chef Jeff Auld and Jarred Tosto will combine traditional Chinese delicacies with Japanese-style sushi craftsmanship. • Opening this summer • 3300 Kirby Drive, Houston • www.haiikeii.com • 5103 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire • www.fredastaire.com/bellaire
BEECHNUT ST.
288
10
Meyerland
BRAYS BAYOU
14A
MAP NOT TO SCALE TM; © 2024 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
N
S. POST OAK RD.
3 Conservatory Galleria The three-story food hall features 11 food vendors and two bars located in the space formerly known as Roxy Houston. • Opened April 5 • 5353 W. Alabama St., Ste. 100, Houston • www.conservatorygalleria.com 4 Maria Tash The Galleria mall location of the fine jewelry designer and luxury piercing expert offers a hand-selected assortment of signature styles and statement pieces. Tash is known for the Curated Ear technique, which combines multiple studs and rings in distinct stylings. • Opened late April • 5085 Westheimer Road, Level 1, Houston • www.mariatash.com
Now open
1 Maximo The concept from Local Foods Group serves fast-casual Mexican fare with a Texas flair. Drink options include on- the-rocks margaritas, beers and craft cocktails. • Opened April 9 • 6119 Edloe St., West University Place • www.maximo-htx.com 2 Tipsy Treats The adult beverage concierge service sells on-the-go cocktails in a variety of flavors. The business also offers scratch-made, Southern-fare food options. • Opened March 28 • 3839 Southwest Freeway, Houston • www.tipsytreatstogo.com
Bellaire’s Premier Direct Primary Practice MEDICAL CARE WHENEVER � WHEREVER
Personalized Convenient Direct Access to MD Affordable High-Quality Healthcare
OUR FAMILY CARING FOR YOURS
5410 BELLAIRE BLVD D, BELLAIRE, TX 77401 � 713-571-4214
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
COMPILED BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
12 City of West University Place The city received the Gold Medal Award for excellence in parks on Feb. 29 from the Texas Recreation and Park Society, based on community involvement, long-range planning, programming and volunteerism. • 3800 University Blvd., West University Place • www.westutx.gov 13 Quinn Dermatology Officials celebrated the business’s one-year anniversary May 1. Dr. Andrew Quinn and his team provide comprehensive medical dermatologic assessments and treatments for hair, skin and nail conditions. • 4110 Bellaire Blvd., Ste. 202, Houston • www.quinndermatology.com
Relocations
Now open
9 Houston Federal Credit Union The Upper Kirby location of the credit union relocated in April to the Weslayan Tower. The office features in- person tellers, walk-up ATMs and safe deposit boxes. • Opened April 22 • 24 Greenway Plaza, Ste. 300, Houston • www.houstonfcu.org
In the news
10 Chick-fil-A Franchise owner Jesse Chaluh said he closed for renovations May 1 for at least six months while the location undergoes a complete teardown and rebuild. • 5001 Beechnut St., Houston • www.chick-fil-a.com 11 Westpark Recycling Center The center temporarily closed April 8 and will reopen May 13 as crews build a new roof. Houstonians are being asked to use the city’s other neighborhood depositories to drop off recyclable materials. • 5900 Westpark Drive, Houston • www.houstontx.gov/solidwaste/westpark.html
15 Holey Moley Mini Golf Club The second Texas location of the entertainment venue includes three nine-hole mini-golf courses that incorporate 1980s and 1990s references. It also features two private karaoke rooms as well as a 104-seat bar and dining space called The Caddyshack. • Opened April 19 • 3839 Weslayan St., Houston • www.holeymoley.com
Closings
14 99 Cents Only All locations of the discount chain closed April 4 due to a mix of shifting consumer demand, COVID-19 effects and inflationary pressures, according to an April 4 news release. • Closed April 4
• 14A 9333 Stella Link Road, Houston • 14B 5800 Bellaire Blvd., Houston • www.99only.com
DAY CAMPS & CLASSES
SENIOR PROGRAMS & TRIPS
SPECIAL EVENTS AND MORE!
Learn more!
Crimsafe Texas | 832-471-6216 | crimsafe.com/texas *Conditions apply. New orders only. Max $500 discount per order, per property. Minimum order value $4,999. Not redeemable for cash or in conjunction with other offers or discounts. Expires 6/2/24
5
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Education
BY WESLEY GARDNER CONTRIBUTIONS BY SHAWN ARRAJJ
HISD board OKs exploration of bond
What’s next
District officials have not yet said whether they will put together a committee to help steer the inclusion of any items or projects in the potential bond. Public school bonds in Texas must receive approval from a majority of voters within the district boundaries to move forward. Should the bond referendum move forward, voters within HISD’s boundaries would get a chance to vote in favor or against the bond in the Nov. 5 election. Key dates • June 13: Houston ISD board to consider 2024-25 budget • Aug. 18: Deadline for district to put bond on November ballot • Nov. 5: Potential date of bond election
Houston ISD’s board of managers voted April 11 to formally authorize the administration of Superintendent Mike Miles to explore a November 2024 bond election. The unanimous decision came without any public discussion prior to the agenda item passing. “Too many HISD students are learning in facilities that, quite simply, are not acceptable,” Miles said in a statement released after the meeting. “Our kids need and deserve better, and we look forward to talking to the broader HISD community about the investments we can make to provide all our students with safe, healthy and effective learning environments.” Miles can now explore putting together a bond package that would give details on how money would be spent. The move comes as district officials confront a structural budget deficit that dates back several fiscal years. HISD’s most recent bond—a $1.9 billion package
Houston ISD revenues and expenses*
Revenue Expenses
$2.53B
$2.36B
$2.21B
$2.21B
$2.21B
$2.16B
$2.05B
$1.94B
Year 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25**
*DOES NOT INCLUDE USE OF ONE-TIME FEDERAL FUNDS
**PROJECTION FROM MAY 2023
SOURCE: HOUSTON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
backed by roughly two-thirds of voters—was approved in 2012. The bond included roughly $1.64 billion to replace and repair 40 schools across the district, including 29 high schools, as well as $252 million for additional projects across the district.
SOURCE: HOUSTON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
YOUR BUSINESS HAS A story
Today’s plan, tomorrow’s peace.
PROBATE • WILLS • GUARDIANSHIP • REAL ESTATE • ESTATE PLANNING
T: (713) 995-8200 | F: (713) 995-8894
kwiesenthal@keeverlaw.com www.keeverlaw.com
5-8200 | F: (713) 995-8894
FAMILY � COSMETIC IMPLANTS � INVISALIGN
A comprehensive, patient-centered practice providing you with the exceptional care you deserve
Hire Storytelling to write and share it.
New Patient Whitening Special for in-office whitening after new patient exam, cleaning and x-rays $500+ $325
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM/ ADVERTISE (866) 989-6808
STEVEN F. VAUGHAN, D.D.S., M.A.G.D., A.B.G.D.
KATHY L. O’KEEFE, DDS, MS, PLLC
4562 Bissonnet St. Bellaire, TX 77401 • www.contemporary-dental.com • 713-668-9119
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Brays Bayou pedestrian bridge to open this fall State, county and local officials gathered along Brays Bayou on April 9 to announce a new pedes- trian and bike bridge over the bayou will be named after the late Rabbi Samuel Karff. Karff served as the senior rabbi of Congregation Beth Israel from 1975 to 1999. He also advocated for civil rights, social justice and equality. What residents should know The $3 million bridge will open in the fall, Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis said. “The late Rabbi Samuel Egal Karff dedicated his life to fostering understanding, unity and justice while faithfully serving Congregation Beth Israel— the oldest Jewish congregation in Houston,” Ellis said in a news release. “It is our profound honor to dedicate this pedestrian bridge in his memo- ry—a bridge that symbolizes the connections he tirelessly worked to build across communities.”
Transportation plan gives Houston $405M The Houston-Galveston Area Council unveiled the 2025-28 Transportation Improve- ment Plan on April 3, which allocates federal and state funding to transportation projects across eight Houston-area counties. Funding is allocated every four years as part of the 2045 regional transportation plan. According to TIP documents, the city of Houston will receive $405.48 million in funds for a number of projects, including: • $50 million to reconfigure the Shepherd- Durham Corridor from Loop 610 to I-10 • $44 million for the Westheimer BOOST corridor connecting downtown Houston to West Oaks • $316 million for the Inner Katy corridor project, a multimodal bus rapid transit route
N
The details Construction on the county-funded 634-lin- ear-foot bridge will span from North to South Braeswood boulevards. The bridge will be main- tained by the Houston Parks Board, HPB President and CEO Beth White said. “We often refer to Brays Bayou Greenway as the ‘United Nations of Greenways’ connecting so many diverse communities,” White said. “It’s really an extraordinary place. When it’s all completed, we’ll have 40 miles of connected greenways just along Brays alone.”
live your best love life.
know your HIV care options and
Call 281.616.7015 to schedule an immediate appointment.
LegacyHIV.org
7
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Spine experts to help bring you back.
When it comes to back pain, every patient is unique. At Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, we specialize in advanced treatments for a variety of conditions with both surgical and non-surgical options. And even though every diagnosis is different, you’ll find our specialists have the whole spine covered—from back to back.
Visit StLukesHealth.org/Spine to make an appointment and start your treatment today.
INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL ARTS 5115 FANNIN ST, HOUSTON, TX
SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION
Property Highlights • Exceptional design and finishes throughout • Easy access to Texas Medical Center, I-69/ US 59, State Highway 288 and Main Street • Conveniently located on the METRORail • Full structured visitor and employee parking • Direct elevator access
• Building and/or monument signage opportunity • No medical use restrictions • Large and efficient floor plates • On-site management • LEED Certified • Physician investment opportunity • Ability to accommodate another Ambulatory Surgery Center
2,000-60,000 SF MEDICAL OFFICE FOR LEASE
from garage to all floors • Shared conference & training facilities • Stunning rooftop terrace
Brandy Bellow Spinks | Senior Vice President | +1 713 577 1642 | brandy.bellow@cbre.com Angela Barber | Vice President | +1 713 577 3818 | angela.barber@cbre.com
2023 HOUSTON BUSINESS JOURNAL LANDMARK AWARD FOR MEDICAL
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
The number of homes sold was lower in all five local ZIP codes when comparing data from March 2024 with March 2023, decreasing by more than 30% in four of them. Residential market data
Number of homes sold
March 2023
March 2024
-36.67%
-36.67%
-33.33%
-26.32%
-45%
59
77005
77025
77030
77096
77401
77005
77401
77030
Median home sales price
77025
610
March
2023
2024
77096
$1,700,000 $540,000
$1,690,000 $560,000 $1,002,000 $435,000 $950,000
77005
90
288
N
77025
Homes sold by price point
$741,250 $441,750
77030
March 2024
77096
$1,250,000
29
77401
$1,000,000+
7
$750,00-$999,999
15
Average days on market +42.22%
$500,000-$749,999
-19.32%
+36%
-4.88%
+37.29%
28
$250,000-$499,999
2
<$250,000
MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY ALINA ROGERS SPARROW REALTY • 281-961-2944 WWW.SPARROW-REALTY.COM
77005
77025
77030
77096
77401
Advertise in the Health Care Edition
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 6700 West Loop S. Ste 500 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
SALESSUPPORT@COMMUNITYIMPACT. COM PRINT + DIGITAL PACKAGES | DIRECT MAIL
9
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Houston’s budget shortfall grows in wake of re ghter payout From the cover
Zooming in
The big picture
$1.1 billion cost over time with approximately $40 million-$80 million needing to be paid in the rst year. Hollins said even with the city having the highest savings account in history—$433.8 million—there isn’t enough money in the budget to cover the cost of the bond and the shortfall for more than a year. “I wouldn’t call [the city] broke, but we do have a real issue on our hands,” he said. “Even before the proposed re ghter settlement, we have a projected gap next year. We have what you might call a spending problem or a revenue problem, or a combination of both.” Although several council members have voiced their concerns with the agreement costs, Whitmire said he is eager to resolve the “long-festering pay dispute” and move forward.
The terms of the settlement with the union include paying $650 million in back pay owed to all current and retired re ghters for the eight years they worked without a contract. The agreement also includes a 10% pay increase, a ve-year contract moving forward and additional bene ts and incentives. Fire Chief Samuel Peña, who said he was not a part of settlement negotiations, noted the deal does not include bene ts to the operations of the re ghter department nor will it a ect response times. City Attorney Arturo Michel said the $650 mil- lion will be paid through the use of a judgment bond, which will incur a 4.25% interest rate over its 20-year life span. With the cost of interest and the approximately $450 million in pay rate changes that would start July 1, the city is looking at a roughly
The agreement is intended to end an 8-year legal battle that started in 2017 after the passing of Proposition B, which mandated pay parity between Houston police o cers and re ghters. Pay parity, according to Pew Research, means those in the same job and location receive fair pay relative to one another. The city and union were embroiled in ongoing legal con icts regarding the contract until Whitmire ordered the city’s legal department to withdraw from its challenges in January. The agreement, rst shared by Whitmire in a March 14 news release, would cost the city $650 million over the course of 20-25 years. Houston City Controller Chris Hollins said the rst year cost of the settlement could reach $70 million-$80 million, pushing the city’s projected shortfall for scal year 2024-25 to $240 million-$280 million. Houston budget shortfalls Houston has faced several budget shortfalls in the last eight years prior to budgets being balanced through one-time funding sources.
How we got here
Ongoing dispute
Nov. 2018: Voters approve Proposition B, which mandated pay parity between re ghters and police Houston Police O cers Union, city of Houston le suit challenging the constitutionality of Prop B
March 2023: Texas Supreme Court rules Proposition B unconstitutional; case is brought back to trial
FY 2016-17
FY 2020-21
FY 2024-25*
0
June 2017: HPFFA les suit against city of Houston
$200M without settlement
-$100M
-$200M -$150M
2017
2018
2019
2023
2024
2025
June 2023: Texas Legislature requires mandatory arbitration after council fails to approve a contract
July 2023: Union amends lawsuit, seeks collective bargaining for FY 2019-20 to FY 2024-25
Dec. 2023: Court denies arbitration for FY 2018-19, grants collective bargaining for FY 2019-20 to FY 2023-24
Jan. 2024: Whitmire orders city to withdraw from legal challenge
March 2024: Houston o cials announce terms of historic settlement agreement
-$250M
$280M with settlement
-$300M
*PROJECTED
SOURCE: CITY OF HOUSTON LEGAL DEPARTMENT COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: CITY OF HOUSTON OPERATING BUDGET COMMUNITY IMPACT
Options to generate revenue
What are the options?
Garbage fee Could add $100 million Property tax increase Could add $50M-$200M, based on rate Budget cuts Could add about $20 million
• Would equate to roughly $20/month for residents
exploring ways to cut expenditures, including: • Consolidating call centers • Reducing department budgets by 5% • Closing vacant positions City council members have also brought their own suggestions on how to close the budgetary gap to the table, including extending metered parking hours in the city to generate more revenue.
During a joint Budget and Fiscal A airs and Labor Committee meeting April 2, city o cials listed possible options for closing the budgetary gap and paying for the settlement. Potential new revenue sources include: • Adding a garbage fee • Adjusting fees • Increasing property taxes Finance department o cials said they are also
• Tax rate is $0.51919 per $100 valuation • Potential increase could equate to $15/month
• Public safety sectors such as police, ire and EMS not affected
NOTE: ALL NUMBERS ARE ESTIMATIONS AND NOT EXACT.
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY CASSANDRA JENKINS
What they're saying
Next steps
The proposed FY 2024-25 budget is expected to be released in mid-May following a series of department budget workshops from May 17-25. The workshops will begin with a special called Budget and Fiscal Aairs meeting with a ve-year forecast and budget overview. A public hearing will follow the proposed budget in late May to early June. Before the budget can be nalized, Michel said the terms of the re ghter agreement must be settled with approval from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the attorney general and Houston City Council. Michel said the intention is to have everything nalized before the start of the new scal year, which begins July 1.
“We want to invest in re, but we don’t have a ve-year nancial picture yet. We don’t have
“A world-class city like Houston deserves a well-funded re department to attract and retain talented
requests for police and municipal workers. … We need to keep that in mind.” TIFFANY THOMAS, COUNCIL MEMBER, DISTRICT F
individuals who are willing to risk their safety for us during our times of need.” JOHN WHITMIRE, MAYOR, CITY OF HOUSTON
“The re ghters, for the rst time in eight years, feel as though the city values and respects them. This is absolutely a fair settlement for the taxpayers and the re ghters.”
“Our re department is one of the best, and we could be even better, but this is going to come down to a nancial sacri ce by the city.” WILLIE DAVIS, COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE, POSITION 2
MARTY LANCTON, PRESIDENT, HPFFA
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 URGENT! The deadline to file your protest is May 15, 2024. Sign-up today and let us help lower your property taxes.
11
BELLAIRE MEYERLAND WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Government
BY MELISSA ENAJE & CASSANDRA JENKINS
Bellaire to reconsider allowing multifamily units within city limits Members of the Bellaire City Council will recon- sider language in the city’s comprehensive plan to potentially allow smaller forms of multifamily residential units to be built within the city. What happened The council approved a 2023-24 Comprehensive Plan update April 1. One change to the plan involved the removal of multifamily residential as a potential use in the city’s Corridor Mixed-Use zoning district—or CMU—and revised standards in the Urban Village-Downtown district, or UV D. CMU is a form of zoning that allows for both resi- dential and commercial uses in one area, according to the city’s land use plan. UV D provides a mix of commercial, o ce, civic and entertainment uses. Council member Brian Witt, who initially voted
Rules advance for sports courts
Harris County jails remain understa ed Harris County o cials described in late March how the county is struggling to manage its over- crowded jails. Factors discussed at a March 25 media meet- ing and March 26 meeting of the Harris County Commissioners Court include inadequate sta ng, specialty inmate populations which require a higher level of supervision than the general popula- tion and the challenges faced with sta ng a facility that operates 24/7. Digging deeper Tonya Mills with the county administration department said 73% of people in custody are in a preadjudication status, or pretrial status, which she said was an exceptionally high number. Mills said those waiting longer for trial or to be seen by a judge have a negative impact on the overall jail population.
Child care centers eligible for tax aid
2023 Harris County jails detention o cer sta ng rates
“We have heard loud and clear that the city ... do[es] not want to have
large multifamily units. But what about smaller units on top of something else?” BRIAN WITT, BELLAIRE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER
Filled positions
Vacant positions
JAN. FEB. MARCH APRIL MAY JUNE
155 165 153 165 202 210 209 209 241 240 241 168
1,588 1,578 1,586 1,574 1,537 1,529 1,530 1,530 1,588 1,498 1,499 1,514
An estimated 327 Harris County child care providers now qualify for 100% property tax exemption after Harris County commission- ers authorized the exemptions at a March 26
West University Place City Council mem- bers approved the second round of ordinance amendments aimed at consolidating residen- tial zoning districts and mitigating noise from residential sports courts. Digging deeper City code does not allow for tennis courts to be built at single-family homes unless they conform to a set of special rules. The change extends those regulations to other sports courts in most cases, according to the ordinance language. The changes create regulations for the installation of sports courts and practice enclosures within residential areas. In addition, three existing zoning districts would be consolidated into one uni ed Single-Family District.
court meeting. The framework
against the item, requested a reconsideration. He said that, while the citizens of Bellaire are heavily against large multifamily units, some are interested in smaller spaces that are built over an existing structure. Witt said the most important part of his rec- ommendation would be the removal of by-right multifamily from the comprehensive plan, which would require any future multifamily development to be approved by City Council rst. Stay tuned The amendment will return to council for discus- sion and a nal vote during a May 6 meeting.
JULY AUG. SEPT. OCT. NOV. DEC.
Just six days prior to the county approval, members of the Houston City Council also passed a similar tax exemption, paving the way for child care facilities in both the city of Houston and Harris County to apply immediately for the exemption. For the exemptions to apply to the 2024 tax year, eligible child care facilities should submit their applications by April 30 to the Harris Central Appraisal District.
SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY OFFICE OF COUNTY ADMINISTRATION COMMUNITY IMPACT
Mills also said the average days to transfer inmates is increasing. While transferring inmates to out-of-state facilities may provide temporary relief, and court cases are beginning to process faster, she said it doesn’t address the underlying problem.
BUFFALO SPEEDWAY 9733 Buffalo Speedway (713) 838-7486
HOLCOMBE 2314 W Holcombe Blvd (713) 669-1722
WESLAYAN 3902 Bissonnet (713) 218-8144
Events
BY ASIA ARMOUR
Hotel features developers, technology providers, marketers and innovators who will showcase the next generation of advancements in the latest internet, mobile and advertisement technology. Attendees can network with peers and attend training sessions. • May 13-14, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (one-day visitor’s pass), $27-$897 (various access passes, VIP) Houston’s Funniest Comedy Showcase This comedy show will feature Houston comedians who have headlined performances in Rudyard’s. The club serves food, beer, wine and cocktails. • May 19, 6-7:30 p.m. • $10 (general admission), • 1777 Walker St., Houston • www.techspohouston.com
May
Sip and St(roll) Houston Arboretum hosts an accessible outing along its half-mile trails. Tickets to the 21-and-older event will include two glasses of wine or Saint Arnold Beer and cheese and charcuterie offerings from Graze Houston, plus a specialty glass to take home. • May 10, 5:30-7 p.m. • $40 (members), $45 (nonmembers) Black Men Buy Houses This event, hosted at Community Collective Houston, aims to empower Black men by promoting home ownership and financial literacy. Attendees can connect with real estate experts, financial advisers and community leaders through panel discussions, networking opportunities and workshops. • May 11, noon-4 p.m. • Free (admission), $500 (vendor table) • 4501 Woodway Drive, Houston • www.houstonarboretum.org
Texas Sound Meditation with Leala and James
$30-$75 (two-, four-top tables and VIP) • Rudyard’s, 2010 Waugh Drive, Houston • www.theriothtx.com
Levy Park will host this self-care event, intended to relieve stress, tension and anxiety with a sound immersion experience. Sound baths are a meditative therapy that use resonant instruments, such as gongs, singing bowls and percussion, chimes, to promote a sense of calm. • May 7, 7 p.m. • Free
Argentine Tango Series This event will introduce Tango dance fundamentals, including musicality, connection, basic patterns and
• 12401 S. Post Oak Road, Houston • www.marriageandrealestate.com
communication. • May 26, 4 p.m. • Free • Levy Park, 3801 Eastside St., Houston • www.levyparkhouston.org
Techspo Houston 2024 This two-day event at the Marriott Marquis Houston
• 3801 Eastside St., Houston • www.levyparkhouston.org
JARVIS JOHNSON STANDS ON HIS RECORD
512-232-5000 EdServices@austin.utexas.edu highschool.utexas.edu
LET’S CHECK THE FACTS Representative Johnson will prioritize to keep our diverse Houston community safe Secured over $200 million for our local public schools He is a fierce advocate against Greg Abbott’s voucher scam Paid Political Advertisement for Jarvis for Texas
Full-Time Virtual High School Free for Texans! Enroll now for Fall 2024!
SCAN HERE TO CHECK THE FACTS»
Summer online courses available for purchase to catch up or get ahead!
Honors and Advanced Placement® subjects available
SPECIAL ELECTION: SATURDAY, MAY 4 RUNOFF ELECTION: TUESDAY, MAY 28
@UTHSnation
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY CASSANDRA JENKINS
Janis Burke talks World Cup, NHL, economic impact of Houston sports The Harris County-Houston Sports Authority was originally created in 1997 to oversee the plans for financing, designing, constructing and operat- ing a new baseball stadium for the Houston Astros. Today, the HCHSA provides oversight to several of Houston’s professional sports facilities and promotes the region for sports-related events. Janis Burke joined the authority as CEO in 2006, when she became the third CEO and first woman to hold the position. She was inducted into the 2024 Sports Events and Tourism Association’s Hall of Fame in March. Community Impact sat down with Burke on April 2 to discuss the authority’s role in the local economy and upcoming events the group is trying to bring to Houston, including the 2026 World Baseball Classic. As of press time April 26, a host city for the Classic had not been named. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. What impact has the sports authority had on the local economy through its sports-related activities? We started a program called, “Buy Houston. By Houston,” which allows vendors to go to our website, sign up for whatever product they offer and tell us if they’re a minority-owned business or a women-owned business. We track all of that so we can give a report at the end of major events. For example, the college football playoffs, which hap- pened in January of this year, a little over $3 million worth of business went out to the local community. Can we expect the city of Houston to host another Super Bowl in the near future? Houston will definitely host again. It’s just a matter of when. You need your NFL team to really be behind it and to be partners because that’s a little bit of an inside game with the NFL owners who all vote and choose. So yes, we’ve been talking with the Texans about that and when is the right time. Have you gotten an update on the city’s bid for the World Baseball Classic in 2026? We haven’t, but I feel good about it, because I always feel good about every bid. I think we will probably hear back before the end of [April]. That’s what we’ve been told. I heard in Miami, the city hit over 425,000 attendees to the World Baseball Classic. Can you imagine that in the spring, and then the World Cup in the summer? It’ll be our international year for sure.
A sports town Houston has held several sports-related events in the past and will continue to invest in bringing new international and regional experiences to the area.
2015
November World Weightlifting Championships
2017
February Super Bowl LI
2021
November World Table Tennis Championships
2023
July-August AAU Junior Olympic Games 2025
March NCAA men's basketball Final Four
2024
February College Football Playoff National Championship
PHOTOS COURTESY HARRIS COUNTY-HOUSTON SPORTS AUTHORITY
Has the sports authority heard anything on Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta’s efforts to bring the National Hockey League to Houston? We think that everybody has a great interest in bringing an NHL team to Houston. Those discus- sions are happening within the NHL commission. I think we’d be a great city to host an ice hockey team. We had the Houston Aeros for many years. Ice hockey is a fast-moving sport, and we have so many diverse interests in sports around here. Cricket is another one with a huge following. Any type of sport does well in Houston—No. 1, because we have a big population, but also we are just a huge sports town. We love our sports. What impact can we expect to see for local communities from these large world events coming to the area, such as the FIFA 2026 World Cup? We want to grow the game for kids that can’t really play, that don’t live in the suburbs and can’t drive to the suburbs. We want to create an urban league for those kids. We also want to do our fan festival a little different. We want to move into [East Downtown], which—with the Hwy. 59 project going underground and a park connecting downtown to EaDo—we think that’s the next kind of up-and-coming place, and we want to use the event to leave a legacy there. Are there any other upcoming events you are particularly excited about? World Cup Rugby is coming, both men and women’s. It’s been awarded to the United States, so we hope to be in the mix for that. Cricket is
2026
March World Baseball Classic* June-July FIFA World Cup
UCI BMX World Championships 2028
2031
TBD Men’s World Rugby Cup*
2033
TBD Women’s World Rugby Cup*
*HOUSTON IN COMPETITION, BUT HOST CITY NOT YET NAMED
SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY-HOUSTON SPORTS AUTHORITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
another sport that we have our eye on because we have a big population here that would to like see professional cricket. In 2028, we will have the last Olympic-qualifying event for BMX. The world’s largest bike park is out in Houston, so that’s where the 2028 UCI BMX World Championships will be held.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com.
15
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Dining
BY ASIA ARMOUR
Southwell said his restaurant has fared well due to his personal involvement and consistent food service.
COURTESY SOUTHWELL’S HAMBURGER GRILL
Keeping the menu simple is key to the success at Southwell's Hamburger Grill, owner Brian Southwell said.
COURTESY SOUTHWELL’S HAMBURGER GRILL
Southwell’s credits family, familiarity for success Since its inception in 1986, fast-casual restaurant Southwell’s Hamburger Grill has aimed to treat its customers and sta across all four Houston loca- tions like family, owner Brian Southwell said. restaurant for decades. “Some customers told me that they’ve been
Southwell’s has developed an atmosphere where everyone knows everyone, Southwell said.
ASIA ARMOUR COMMUNITY IMPACT
coming here for years, [since] when the kids were little, [and now] they have grandkids come in,” Fernando said. What’s on the menu The menu has remained largely unchanged, Fer- nando said, with classic American eatery elements, such as milkshakes, chili cheese dogs, three kinds of french fries, and a variety of hamburgers and sand- wiches. The less on the menu, the easier customers can develop favorites, Southwell said. “Because most people that come in and eat, if they’ve been here three or four times, they’ve decided what item on the menu they like,” he said.
DO IT ANYWHERE ANY T I ME Luis Fernando, who has worked at Southwell’s for over 10 years, said he can attest to a closeness among sta and those who have visited the For the last almost 40 years, Southwell said he’s worked hard to be personally involved in the daily operations of the restaurant. “The restaurant business is a brutal business; the people who make it are actively involved in the business ... so I’m in each one of my stores twice a day,” he said. A family a air
Houston
W. HOLCOMBE BLVD.
N
2252 W. Holcombe Blvd., Houston www.southwells.com
Getting tested for HIV is quick, easy, and FREE.
Find a location near you or learn more at LegacyCommunityHealth.org/GetTested
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Virtually ip through any e-edition! Enhance your experience with hyperlinked stories and ads.
NOW TWO LOCATIONS TO CATER YOUR CINCO DE MAYO, MOTHER’S DAY, GRADUATION PARTIES!
any catering order when you call * 713-231-5506 15% OFF
WE CATER SPECIAL EVENTS AND WE DELIVER NIGHTLY FAMILY DINNERS!
Fajita Pete’s - Bellaire 5201 Spruce Bellaire, TX. 77401 Tuesday - Sunday 3PM - 8PM
SpruceSt.
NOW OPEN
Scan the QR code to place your order.
Fajita Pete’s - West University The Original
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM PRINT ARCHIVES Snap or visit
Stella Link Rd.
6719 Weslayan St. Houston, TX. 77005
Bellaire Blvd.
* This offer valid for catering orders only. See stores for details.
17
BELLAIRE MEYERLAND WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
From brows to brazilians. We’ve got you covered from head to toe.
First-time guests receive 50% OFF their first waxing service
Scan for Booking and Membership Savings Program
F REE DESSERT w ith any purchase F REE DESSERT w ith any purchase B owl Season Is Here. R ing in the new year with Firehouse Subs! W atch the college bowl games with a d elicious cup of soup! F REE CUP OF SOUP w ith any sub purchase C lassic Flavors Make An Iconic Combo G ive our new Chicken Parmesan Meatball Sub the combo it d eserves with a classic Coca-Cola® and Lay’s® Baked Original P otato Crisps. B owl Season Is Here. R ing in the new year with Firehouse Subs! W atch the college bowl games with a d elicious cup of soup! C lassic Flavors Make An Iconic Combo G ive our new Chicken Parmesan Meatball Sub the combo it d eserves with a classic Coca-Cola® and Lay’s® Baked Original P otato Crisps. F REE CUP OF SOUP w ith any sub purchase V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable with any o ther coupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, a fi ltered, sold or transferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be extra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not v alid on FirehouseSubs.com, FIREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery orders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All r ights reserved. Exp. 0 3/31/2024. S OUP$SUB V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable with any o ther coupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, a V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable w ith any other coupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited o fi r if reproduced, altered, sold or transferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be ex- t ra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not valid on FirehouseSubs.com, FIREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery o rders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All rights reserved. Exp. 0 6/30/2024. D ESSERT fi ltered, sold or transferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be extra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not v alid on FirehouseSubs.com, FIREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery orders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All r ights reserved. Exp. 0 3/31/2024. S OUP$SUB V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable with any o ther coupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, a fi ltered, sold or transferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be extra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not v alid on FirehouseSubs.com, FIREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery orders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All r ights reserved. Exp. 0 6/30/2024. D BLMEAT Firehouse Subs Meyerland Plaza 170 Meyerland Plz, Houston, TX. 77096 713-660-7827 Firehouse Subs West U 3924 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX. 77025 713-665-7827 F REE DOUBLE M EAT ON YOUR M EDIUM SUB F REE DOUBLE M EAT ON YOUR M EDIUM SUB V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable with any o ther coupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited or if reproduced, a fi ltered, sold or transferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be extra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not v alid on FirehouseSubs.com, FIREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery orders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All r ights reserved. Exp. 0 6/30/2024. D BLMEAT V alid only at participating U.S. FIREHOUSE SUBS® restaurants. One per customer. Not combinable w ith any other coupons or offers. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Void where prohibited o fi r if reproduced, altered, sold or transferred. Tax extra. Substitutions and modi cations may be ex- t ra. Cash value 1/100¢. Not valid on FirehouseSubs.com, FIREHOUSE SUBS® App mobile or delivery o rders. TM & © 2023 FRG, LLC. All rights reserved. Exp. 0 6/30/2024. D ESSERT
5531 Weslayan St. Houston, TX 77005 | (281) 888-1607 waxingthecity.com/locations/w337/us/tx/houston-west-university
Fireho 3924 Bellaire
YOUR SOLUTION IS HERE. daily marketing NEWSLETTER BANNERS
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM/ADVERTISE (866) 989-6808
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
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Enhance your overall beauty with natural and organic treatments MASSAGES, FACIALS, BODY CONTOURING, AND VICHY SHOWER.
Yesterfest HONORING THE PAST Welcomes You To May 24th & 25th
$25 OFF in any treatments and FREE infra-red sauna session.
FORGING THE FUTURE
Scan here for more info
Saturday, May 25th Bastrop, Texas Re-enactors, Storytelling, Children’s Area & More 10 am - 4 pm Pine Street Downtown Bastrop, TX
Friday, May 24th Bastrop, Texas Beard & Mustache Contest 8 - 11pm | 602 Brewing Company 919 Main St. Featuring: The Rambling Mystics
6550 Mapleridge St Suite 124, Houston, TX 77081 | (346) 610-8432
Become a Petbar member for FREE! That’s right, we’re waiving the $25 membership initiation fee with this coupon
Your local dog grooming & dog washing in Houston Shedding Season Savior: Spring Dog Grooming at Petbar in Bellaire!
5130 Bissonnet St, Bellaire, TX 77401 | 832-997-3457 Save with Membership | Full Service Grooming | Self Service Wash | Full Service Wash
YOUR BUSINESS HAS A story
Of equal or lesser value. ONLINE PROMO CODE: COM50 Offer cannot be combined with other offers, specials or discounts. Available at participating locations only. Coupon Expires 07/30/2024. BUY 1 PIZZA, GET 1 50% OFF
Hire Storytelling to write and share it.
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM/ ADVERTISE (866) 989-6808
19
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Common ground, all year ’round
Rice Village is a place where community and commerce thrive. This May, as you close out the school year with celebrations and graduations, we hope you find what you need here in the Village—whether that’s respite beneath the shade of our trees, revelry with friends out at dinner, or Farmers Market fixings for your springtime salad. We’re grateful you’re in the neighborhood—and we’ll see you in the shade this summer.
Kirby and University, Houston, TX
@RICEVILLAGEDISTRICT
RICE-VILLAGE.COM
#growingtogether
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
- 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 FREE ENTREE, SALAD OR SANDWICH After 6pm with ad • Dine in only Cannot be used with other promotions BUY ONE GET ONE
Trusted to keep homes comfortable since 1968
www.bellaireair.com · 713-772-1217
Phil'� Comfort Club Service Membership $169.00 for the First System and $99 for each additional system. (Expires 6/4/24)
Scan to be a member
$89 Service Call Waived with Repair Limit one coupon per visit. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
Residential only. (Expires 6/4/24)
SCAN FOR MENUS.
10%Discount on New System�. (Expires 6/4/24)
4191 BELLAIRE BLVD, HOUSTON, TX 77025 713-966-2737 • WWW.DISHSOCIETY.COM
head to the bar for our new $6 Happy Hour Menu! �e� CHIPS & CHILE CON QUESO AT THE BAR $6 FAN FAVORITE MINI APPS $1 o� ALL BAR DRINKS THROUGHOUT RESTAURANT
CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY WITH OUR SPECIAL CATERING MENU! at Cinnaholic in Meyerland Court
CATERING FOR
FREE OLD SKOOL
want a FREe JOSE’S DIP?
when buying $50 or more in catering
Baby Buns
Sign up for our e-news and you’ll get our most popular dip for FREE plus another on your birthday month!
610
3801 Bellaire Blvd, 77025 | 713.432.1626 MOLINASCANTINA.COM A Housto� T�aditio� sinc� 1941
BEECHNUT ST.
4798 Beechnut St, Houston, TX 77096 832.919.1673
N
23
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12-13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24Powered by FlippingBook