The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
Tomball Magnolia Edition VOLUME 15, ISSUE 10 AUG. 2 SEPT. 2, 2025
2025 Home Edition
Shaping the suburbs
Growth brings new neighborhoods to the Tomball, Magnolia area
INSIDE
24
Premium sponsor
L L R D .
GRAND PINES RD.
ROBERTS CEMETERY RD.
2920
N
Spring Creek Trails is one of several new residential communities in the works around the Tomball and Magnolia area. (Zach Thoms/Community Impact)
INSIDE
17
PUB Com INS 07/0 MA 06/ JOB MH Adv CLIE Mem JOB Prim LIV N/A SIZE 9.18 BLE N/A COL 4cp SWO FOR Pres
Primary care made easier for you. Taking care of your health is easier with the right doctor. That’s why we’ve made it simpler to find the provider right for you, with hundreds of affiliated primary care physicians located throughout Greater Houston. So you can get the care you need close to home or work. That’s primary care designed around you. memorialhermann.org/primary-care 713.222.CARE (2273)
Advancing health. Personalizing care.
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Developing math skills begins with a good playlist.
Music is a universal language of patterns, fractions and sequences. And children love it! That’s why at Primrose Schools® we use original songs — and dance parties — to lay the foundation for future math concepts as we make the most of your child’s first five years. Primrose School of/at Your Name
Now Enrolling Ages 0-5 Learn more about the 46 Primrose schools in Houston.
Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a registered trademark of Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. ©2025 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All rights reserved.
3
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED INT. FREE FINANCING FOR EVERYONE! COSMETIC CROWNS, VENEERS, FILLINGS CLEAR ALIGNER ORTHODONTICS ORAL SURGERY NON-SURGICAL PERIO TREATMENT
SMILE MAKEOVER SPECIAL 20% OFF ANY TWO OR MORE VENEERS OR CROWNS
LATEST IN TECHNOLOGY SAME DAY EMERGENCY
Cannot be combined with any other discounts. Expires 8/31/25
ROOT CANALS EXTRACTIONS IMPLANTS IV SEDATION
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL $99 OR FREE WHITENING KIT Special includes Comprehensive Exam, X-Rays, and Routine Cleaning. Cannot be combined with any other discounts. Exp. 8/31/25 281-351-0005 Call today and experience dentistry as never before!
NEW PATIENTS OF ALL AGES ARE WELCOME COME AND EXPERIENCE DENTISTRY AS NEVER BEFORE! Serving the Tomball/Magnolia Communities for over 40 years
GENERAL, FAMILY, COSMETIC, AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY 1113 Alma Street, Tomball For more information please visit us at www.tropicaldentist.com
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
About Community Impact
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.
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Angela Bonilla Sarah Brager Melissa Enaje Valeria Escobar Wesley Gardner Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Roo Moody Tomer Ronen Nichaela Shaheen Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Kevin Vu Julianna Washburn Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills
Chrissy Leggett General Manager
Lizzy Spangler Editor
Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White Ronald Winters Houston Market President Jason Culpepper Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Product Manager Kaitlin Schmidt Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez
April Halpin Account Executive
Note to our readers: Beginning this month, you’ll no longer see Texas Monthly content featured in Community Impact. We’re grateful for the partnership and proud to continue focusing on original, impactful reporting from our own CI journalists across Texas. As always, thank you for trusting us to keep you informed about what matters most in your community.
Contact us
16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281 469 6181 CI careers
We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.
communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact tomnews@communityimpact.com tomads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising
© 2025 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
Proudly printed by
Press releases
Advertising
Email newsletters
communityimpact.com/newsletter
Work Smarter, Not Harder: Streamline Your Business with Expert IT.
WHY LEASE WHEN YOU CAN OWN YOUR OWN OFFICE Stop paying for the landlord's retirement and start paying for yours
877-381-SELL (7355) Offices | Office Condos | Office Warehouses
Boost Your Business Performance: teamlogicit.com/TomballTX345 14011 Park Dr. #103 • Tomball, TX 77377
5
TOMBALL MAGNOLIA EDITION
Impacts
2 Center for Vein Restoration The center’s treatments include vein disease treatment, treating spider veins and treating varicose veins. • Opened April 21 • 20207 Chasewood Park Drive, Ste. 203, Houston • www.centerforvein.com 3 The Fitzpatrick Group The full-service financial planning and wealth management firm opened near Vintage Park in May, managing director Trey McWilliams confirmed. • Opened in May • 20405 Hwy. 249, Ste. 640, Houston • www.fitzgrp.com 4 Ivey Manor The event venue offers guests nine acres of land bordering Decker Branch Creek. There are multiple outdoor and indoor facilities on the property. • Opened in 2025 • 33133 Hwy. 249, Pinehurst • https://iveymanor.com 5 Don Tomate Meat Market The meat market also sells household items and has a bakery within the store. Don Tomate has two other locations in Tomball and Cypress. • Opened June 7 6 Skip’s Beer, Wine and Liquor The liquor store offers an assortment of wines, beers and spirits. • Opened June 5 • 33108 Magnolia Circle, Ste. 100, Magnolia • www.skipsliquor.com 7 Portillo’s The fast-casual restaurant serves Chicago-style street food, with seating for 160 guests, double drive-thru lanes, pick-up shelves and a grab-and-go area. • Opened July 22 • 25531 Tomball Parkway, Tomball • www.portillos.com • 9411 FM 1488, Ste. 100, Magnolia • www.dontomatemeatmarket.com
149
9
18
17
MAGNOLIA CIR.
1486
1488
6
R E
15
5
Magnolia
249 TOLL
2978
D
1774
1488
2978
4
STAGECOACH RD.
HUFSMITH KUYKENDAHL RD.
BAKER DR.
ZION RD.
DECKER PRAIRIE ROSEHILL RD.
FANNIN ST.
19
Tomball
12
16
8
2920
2920
10
99 TOLL
HOLDERRIETH RD.
7
N. ELDRIDGE PKWY.
14
249
1
VINTAGE PARK BLVD.
13
11
CHASEWOOD PARK DR.
3
2
MAP NOT TO SCALE
N
TM; © 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
sandwiches. According to its website, the bagels are hand-rolled, boiled and baked daily. • Opened May 21 • 16949 N. Eldridge Parkway, Tomball • www.harpersbagels.com
Now open
1 Harpers Bagels The family-run bagel shop offers a variety of bagel and cream cheese flavors, along with breakfast and lunch
REPUBLIC PEST CONTROL & Wildlife Removal
The friendly church with a big heart serving our community and sharing Christ’s unconditional Love! FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH - TOMBALL
CALL FOR A FREE TERMITE INSPECTION!
281-740-0114 WWW.REPPEST.COM
SUMMER SPECIAL $125 FOR INITIAL SERVICE then $100 quarterly w/12 mo. agreement
SUMMER SPECIAL $150 FOR ONE TIME SERVICE One time service Includes 90 day warranty
SUNDAY SERVICE 11AM
30410 TOMBALL PARKWAY TOMBALL, TX 77375 (281) 351-2199 VISIT: FPCTOMBALL.ORG
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
ByThePour Mobile Bartending Service The business, which serves all of the Greater Houston area, provides everything but the liquor, beer and wine. • Opened July 6 • Facebook: Bythepour
of Licensing and Regulation. Construction was anticipated to begin in July. • 14090 FM 2920, Ste. A, Tomball • www.einsteinbros.com
Now open
Relocations
Coming soon
13 The Fresh Presidents The barber shop, previously located at 1321 Cypress N. Houston Road, relocated to North Eldridge Parkway. • Relocated April 1 • 16945 N. Eldridge Parkway, Ste. 500, Tomball • www.thefreshpresidents.com 14 Prismatic Salon As part of the salon’s expansion plans, the business relocated from its previous location at 6603 Spring Stuebner Road, Spring. • Relocated May 31 • 8765 Spring Cypress Road, Spring • www.prismaticsalon.com
8 Tomball Social Haus Inspired by owner Peter Werner’s love for community and service, Tomball Social Haus is a space to rent for events and community-driven gatherings, Werner said. • Tentatively opening Aug. 22
• 209 Fannin St., Tomball • www.socialhaustx.com
17 FTS Pickleball The business houses both a pickleball court and a basketball court that share the same area and a batting cage that is separate. FTS Pickleball will also have an area to watch matches with tables and chairs, and a TV to watch other sporting games. The facility is open 24/7, and will have a space available to book for birthday parties. • Opened July 1 • 33134 Magnolia Circle, Ste. B, Magnolia • www.ftsmagnolia.com
9 Chick-fil-A The fast food restaurant is projecting a fall opening date for its Magnolia location, per a May 16 news release.
• Coming in the fall of 2025 • 14110 FM 1488, Magnolia • www.chickfila.com
Expansions
10 Innersculpt Studio Owner Brennan Cross said she created the pilates studio to foster wellness and give people a place to let go of stress while focusing on wellbeing. • Tentatively opening in mid-September • 27104 Hwy. 249, Bldg. A, Ste. 400, Tomball • www.innersculptstudio.com 11 Beem Light Sauna The health and wellness business is focused on infrared
15 Higher Grounds Coffee Co. The coffee shop, which previously operated out of a mobile trailer, expanded into a storefront in early April. Higher Grounds Coffee Co. offers a variety of hot and iced coffee alongside pastries such as kolaches, cinnamon rolls and muffins. • Expanded in early April • 19014 FM 1488, Magnolia • Facebook: Higher Grounds Coffee Co
18 Texans United For Freedom The nonprofit, focused on honoring and supporting veterans, celebrated its 10th anniversary in April, treasurer Teresa Buckley confirmed. • 6606 FM 1488, Ste. 148-686, Magnolia • www.tufffoundation.org 19 Shield Bearer The counseling center celebrated 20 years offering
and light therapy. • Opening Aug. 12
In the news
• 110 Vintage Park Blvd., Bldg. J, Ste. G, Houston • www.beemlightsauna.com/location/vintage-park
16 Rosehill Christian School The school is holding its annual fundraising gala to celebrate its 35th anniversary Sept. 13 at 6 p.m. at The Estates at Pecan Park. According to the website, the school serves children from pre-K through 12th grade and opened in 1990.
mental health services in July. • 1603 Baker Drive, Tomball • www.shieldbearer.org
What’s next
12 Einstein Bros. Bagels A new location of Einstein Bros. Bagels is expected to open in Tomball, per a filing with the Texas Department
• 19830 FM 2920, Tomball • www.rosehillchristian.org
Dr. Georganne McCandless Board Certified
As pediatric dentists, we focus on preventative care to help each child grow a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.
FREE EXAM FOR NEW PATIENTS 12 months and under! Call and make your appointment today!
Georganne McCandless Board Certified
281.516.2700 | TEETHFORKIDZ.COM 455 SCHOOL ST. SUITE 42 TOMBALL. TX 77375
7
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
Our residents are our #1 focus, and we prove it in our resident-first philosophy! Through our lifestyle activities, amazing amenities, and caring team members we ensure our residents' needs are met and that they thrive in our community. Step into your new home and embrace true community with us. Contact us today to schedule your tour!
352.704.0219 HeritageTomball.com 1221 Graham Dr.,Tomball, TX 77375
EMBRACE YOUR SUMMER. HEAR IT ALL.
Your Clark Hearing Team
MAGNOLIA 32731 Egypt Lane, Ste. 701 Magnolia, TX 77354 MONTGOMERY 16145 Highway 105 W. Ste. 300 Montgomery, TX 77356 (832) 482-2571 • Call TODAY to schedule your consultation! Leading the way to Better Hearing Full Service Hearing Aid & Hearing Protection Provider THE WOODLANDS 19221 I-45 South Ste. 140 Shenandoah, TX 77385 TOMBALL 425 Holderrieth Blvd, Ste. 116 Tomball, TX 77375
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & JESSICA SHORTEN
Montgomery County seeks $40M for mobility Jason Smith, deputy chief of staff for Mont- gomery County Judge Mark Keough’s Office, outlined $40 million in planned projects for the county as part of congestion mitigation and air quality, or CMAQ, grants from the Federal Transit Administration. Two-minute impact Smith on June 24 presented an update on the potential for over $40 million in CMAQ grants through the Houston-Galveston Area Council to commissioners. The grants are comprised of fed- eral funds which are distributed locally by H-GAC for projects to address congestion and increase overall air quality, according to H-GAC officials. One such project, Smith said, would allow the county to track road traffic through implementa- tion of a system similar to Houston TranStar for Montgomery County. Montgomery County to explore jail solutions The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department is seeking solutions for worsening jail overcrowding as the jail reached 97.9% of capacity in June, Chief Deputy Jonathan Zitzmann said. What happened At a July 15 Commissioners Court meeting,
Magnolia City Council gives its approval to land annexation On July 8, Magnolia City Council approved the annexation of 94.53 acres of land. In a nutshell The development involves residential and commercial, as previously reported. The annexation allows the city to receive taxes and obligates the city to provide services, City Attorney Leonard Schneider said.
Grant requests pending
Dobbin-Huffsmith Road reconstruction $14.25M Intelligent transportation system $11.72M Hardin Store Road reconstruction $9.5M Fiber interconnections for traffic signals $5M
SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
“We’ll be able to know traffic trends on every roadway in the county,” Smith said. Smith said the projects qualify for CMAQ grants by improving air quality through minimizing wait times at traffic lights and reducing emissions. What else? Smith said if the grants for the traffic signal projects are approved, the county would then request interlocal agreements with any cities in the county that pay for their own traffic signals to get permission for installing upgrades to light poles. Zitzmann said the jail is operating at 97.9% capac- ity, housing 1,289 inmates. Per the presentation, the Texas Commission on Jail Standards’ require- ment is operating at 90% capacity, for which the county applied for and was granted a one-year variance that expires in March, he said. What’s next A consulting firm will be hired to analyze best practices and guide the county. The study, funded by the sheriff’s existing budget, will take 90 days, Zitzmann said.
149
1488
N
SOURCE: CITY OF MAGNOLIA/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Montgomery County Jail options New jail facility 20-30 year solution Cost: $350 million 2,300 beds
Five-year planning and construction timeline Facility acquisition 5-10 year solution Cost: $60 million 2,500 beds Limited expansion potential
SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
cabinet remodels under $5,000 15% OFF 20% OFF cabinet remodels $5,000 or more FREE Design Consultation! Call for your
SMART CABINETS.
Kitchens, Bathrooms & Custom Designs Free In-Home Design Consultations Professional, Precise Installation Locally Owned. Nationally Recognized.
Discounts given after estimate
STUNNING RESULTS.
346-536-4664 | www.cabinetiq.com/woodlands
9
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
Education
BY JULIANNA WASHBURN
TISD program to offer pathway to teaching Tomball ISD will launch a new program for students who are aspiring educators, according to a July 1 TISD news release. What you need to know TISD announced its new P-TECH, or Pathways in Technology Early College High School, program called Tomball Academy of Future Educators via news release. The TAFE program will focus on preparing TISD students for careers in education. TAFE will work as a partnership between TISD and Lone Star College-Tomball. Students enrolled in the program will work toward an associate degree and get hands-on experience in district classrooms. In case you missed it TAFE is the second program of its kind since the district launched its first program focused
MISD approves new cellphone policy Magnolia ISD trustees approved an update to the district’s cellphone policy July 14, which states students can’t use cellphones on school property during the school day, per a presentation from Ben King, MISD’s assistant superintendent of administration. In a nutshell The district made the distinction that students can possess their cellphones, but the updated policy states that students must stow any personal communication device from the beginning of the instructional day until the end while on campus. MISD stated that students can be exempt if the use of their device is determined as necessary by their medical provider or if part of a 504 plan, which accommodates individu- als with disabilities.
Tomball Academy of Future Educators The TAFE will be TISD’s second P-TECH, or Pathways in Technology Early College High School, program.
Will begin August 2026
Housed at Tomball West High School
Applications available this fall
Lottery to take place in December
Parent information nights will be held
SOURCE: TOMBALL ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
on health care in fall 2023, according to previous Community Impact reporting. P-TECH is an open-enrollment high school that allows students to achieve both a high school diploma and a credential or associate degree, according to the Texas Education Agency.
TOMBALL 616 West Main Street | 281-290-8000 AmericasFamilyDentalTomballTexas.com Our practice also features the latest technologies to provide you with precise, comfortable care, including digital X-rays and imaging, CEREC same-day crowns, implants and laser dentistry.We welcome you to contact us today to make your appointment with our dentists in Tomball,Texas, and discover for yourself what sets us apart.Always accepting new patients. Josh W Gosnell, DDS ∙ Robert M.Turner, DDS Dr. Josh Gosnell and Dr. Robert Turner are committed to helping you and your family enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for life.We provide a full range of services in one convenient location, and we maintain the highest standards of excellence in dentistry to ensure that your treatments meet your needs. Serving the Area Since 1999! TOMBALL 616 West Main Street | 281-290-8000 Summer Special $350 OCCLUSAL GUARD Not valid w/ Delta Dental patients. Josh W Gosnell, DDS ∙ Robert M.Turner, DDS
Serving the Area Since 1999!
americasfamilydentaltomballtexas.com
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY LIZZY SPANGLER
Ongoing projects
149
1486
2 FM 1488 widening west of Magnolia Project: The Texas Department of Transportation is widening FM 1488 from two to four lanes with a continuous left turn lane between the Waller County line and FM 1774. Update: This project is 98% completed, according to a June 3 media update from TxDOT. • Timeline: November 2020-third quarter of 2025 • Cost: $35.35 million • Funding source: state funds 3 FM 1488 widening through Magnolia Project: Between FM 1774 and west of FM 149, TxDOT is widening FM 1488 from two to four lanes with a continuous left turn lane. Update: According to a June 3 media update from TxDOT, this project is 58% completed. • Timeline: June 2022-third quarter of 2027 • Cost: $48.3 million • Funding source: state funds
3
1488
Magnolia
249 TOLL
D
1774
2
1488
2978
STAGECOACH RD.
2920
1
99 TOLL
Tomball
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
249 Update: This project is in the design phase, as of a July 8 update from officials. Construction timelines and costs have not yet been set. • Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3 2920
Upcoming projects
2920
1 Dowdell Road asphalt project Project: Between Dowdell Road from Kuykendahl Road to FM 2920, Harris County Precinct 3 is planning to reconstruct the asphalt of the road from the ground up.
99 TOLL
HOLDERRIETH RD.
NORTHPOINTE BLVD.
GRANT RD.
N. ELDRIDGE PKWY.
SPEND LESS. DRIVE MORE. LOCAL SERVICE RATES AS LOW AS 4.99% APR* 99 TOLL
• DOG BOARDING • STAY AND PLAY • DOG WALKING • PET SITTING • CAGE-FREE BOARDING
AHOY!
GRAND OPENING!
20% OFF FIRST SERVICE New customers only.
Only applies to first day of boarding. Exp. 9/15/25
SCAN TO BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY!
APPLY TODAY
www .MTFCU. Coop | 713-681-0339 *APR is Annual Percentage Rate. Rate based on credit history and score. Certain credit criteria apply, and rates subject to change at any time. The payment per $1,000 borrowed at 4.99% over 24 months is $43.87.
533 Abney Ln, Magnolia, TX 77355 | (346) 786-1517
11
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
Events
BY AUDREY BAKER
10 Years of Giving Celebration — A Night to Remember Texans United for Freedom’s event will feature dinner, casino games and an auction. • Aug. 16, 7-11 p.m. • $75 (individual ticket); table sales are also available • Magnolia Event Center, 11659 FM 1488, Magnolia • www.tufffoundation.org Disco Expressions Attendees can enjoy disco hits from Disco Expressions. • Aug. 22, 8 p.m. • Ticket prices vary • Main Street Crossing, 111 W. Main St., Tomball • www.mainstreetcrossing.com
August
Back to School Bash The event will feature live music, local vendors and various activities for children.
• Aug. 9, 4-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • 2130 S. Persimmon Lane, Tomball • www.paradigmbrewingcompany.com
Sitcom Showdown Trivia Put your sitcom knowledge to the test at Sitcom Showdown Trivia Night at Little Woodrow’s Tomball. Attendees can form teams of up to 8 players.
• Aug. 14, 7 p.m. • Free (admission) • 11241 Timber Tech Ave., Tomball • www.littlewoodrows.com
Taste This, Try That This restaurant and business showcase will feature a variety of vendors and restaurants to sample. Attendees will receive a coupon book valid for 60 days after the event. • Aug. 21, 5:30 p.m. • $35 • Magnolia Event Center, 11659 FM 1488, Magnolia • www.swmcchamber.org
September
Rodgers and Hammerstein Tribute — My Favorite Things Houston Musical Theater Company will perform songs from classic Broadway musicals. • Sept. 2, 8 p.m. • Ticket prices vary • Main Street Crossing, 111 W. Main St., Tomball • www.mainstreetcrossing.com
Magnolia Fire Department Blood Drive Donate blood at the Magnolia Fire Department’s blood drive. All donors will receive a free T-shirt and a voucher for a free pint of Blue Bell Ice Cream. • Aug. 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. • Free • 18215 Buddy Riley Blvd., Magnolia • www.magnoliafire.org
Ready for the Best Year Ever?
Before & After School Care 6 Weeks - 12 Years
346-361-1669 20015 Farm to Market 2920 @ the corner of 2920 & Mueschke Rd www.kindredlearningacademy.com Elementary School Transportation Available Grand Oaks Rosehill Road West Elementary Turlington Lowe Elementary JL Lyons Elementary Nichols-Sawmill Elementary
BOOK A TOUR TODAY!
e Clock Shop Quality Repair, Sales & Service Antiques & Gifts L S N H • O C D Use this ad for your next purchase or any repairs on any clock. 15% O EXP . 10/15/25 PROMO CODE : TOM 6315 FM 1488 • e Woodlands, TX • 281-259-8338 www.theclockshoponline.com N OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE I H R S A G C
12
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Business
BY JULIANNA WASHBURN
The oldest console in-store is the Nintendo Entertainment System from around 1985.
Quicksave Games and Collectibles moved into its spot on West Main Street in Tomball almost two years ago.
PHOTOS BY JULIANNA WASHBURN COMMUNITY IMPACT
Quicksave Games goes back in time with retro games Quicksave Games and Collectibles, known for its retro video games, trading card games and commu- nity events, moved into its spot on West Main Street in Tomball almost two years ago. About the owners
Quicksave Games and Collectibles has tables available for anybody to play or host any type of card game.
What they o er Quicksave Games and Collectibles sells items including PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo products, as well as trading card games. “Anything that’s a retro game, we have it,” Taylor Krinkie said. The store also provides repairs on di erent systems and hosts events, and tables are available for anybody to play or host any type of card game. What happens next? Taylor Krinkie said the couple plans to stay in Tomball when they eventually expand. “We just need more room ... because it gets crazy here on the weekends,” Taylor Krinkie said.
Taylor Krinkie said he’d been buying and selling games and collectibles for over ve years at home until the couple decided to try out a storefront. “It worked. There wasn’t anything like it in Tom- ball anymore, so the community really responded well to it,” Taylor Krinkie said. Kayla Krinkie said the retro video games and consoles bring back memories for their customers. “It’s funny to hear the kids be like, ‘Wait you used this kind of cartridge? It’s huge,’” Kayla Krinkie said.
A
R E D R .
N
706 W. Main St., Ste. A2, Tomball www.quicksavegamesllc.com
CHOOSE CHURCH THIS SUNDAY...
salem4u.com · 22601 Lutheran Church Road · Tomball
13
TOMBALL MAGNOLIA EDITION
You belong here.
JOIN A NETWORK OF 1,600+ LOCAL PROFESSIONALS
NETWORKING REGULATORY ADVOCACY INDUSTRY TRAINING CHARITABLE OPPORTUNITIES PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT INDUSTRY RECOGNITION
Christy Daniel | North Houston Market President
Our North Houston commercial bankers are focused on the success of your business.
Find us in Vintage Park
MEMBER FDIC home24bank.com | 281.276.1846
GHBA.ORG/BELONG
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Nonprofit
BY JESSICA SHORTEN
A May report from Feeding America, a nationwide nonprofit that studies the rate of food insecurity—or lack of adequate access to food—showed nearly 100,000 residents are struggling locally. Meanwhile, local agencies say they are facing their own challenges in meeting demand. According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap report, the annual food budget shortfall for residents in Montgomery County has risen from $37.2 million in 2019 to $64.5 million in 2023. The study also showed that as of 2023, 98,400 individuals are struggling with adequate food supply, a number Montgomery County Food Bank President Kristine Marlow said is still low. “That’s a published number, but we are seeing that people need a lot more help than that,” Marlow said. Needs grow at food agencies
Assessing the impact
Missy Herndon, president and CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands. “What we tend to find par- ticularly during higher need times, and what we expect with the [Supplemental Nutrition Assis- tance Program] changes, will be that families will be coming in from all over, because they’ll start calling around and looking for additional support.” According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the federal poverty level is set at $15,060 annually for a single individual, and it rises to $31,200 for a family of four. However, the threshold to be considered a “low-income house- hold” has continuously risen over the last five years, according to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development data. “There are way more people who actually need the help, and especially in the summertime right now, when kids are home from school,” Marlow said.
Marlow said a key concern has been the rising cost of food in both grocery stores and through the food bank’s procurement process, which also helps provide resources to local food pantries. “It’s very expensive. You know, people are work- ing paycheck to paycheck,” Marlow said. “Most people that we serve are working individuals that just can’t make ends meet. If you throw in a car repair bill or ... a medical bill, it puts them into that situation where they have to turn to the food bank and our food pantries for assistance.” The strain is also being felt among agencies which provide food pantry services across the county, such as the nonprofit Interfaith of The Woodlands, where officials said they expect to see a 20%-25% increase in food pantry services over the summer. “We believe that we’re going to see an increase in families coming in, without question,” said
Federal low-income levels
Single-person household: $21,250-$56,650
Two-person household: $24,300-$64,750
Three-person household: $27,350-$72,850
Four-person household: $32,150-$80,900
Montgomery County food insecure population growth
$100,000
100,000
$80,000
80,000
60,000
$60,000
40,000
$40,000
20,000
0
$20,000
$0
2022
2023
2024
2025
2021
NOTE: FEEDING AMERICA DATA HAS A TWO-YEAR LAG IN REPORTING. SOURCE: FEEDING AMERICA/COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Final takeaways
• Canned vegetables and fruits • Hot and cold cereal
At the food bank, Marlow said work on its new 18,000-square-foot facility was nearing completion, and it will help provide up to 1 million more meals annually in the community. She said local business leaders and individuals can also help by donating any amount of food or monetary contribution to local food banks and pantries, as well as high- need items such as: • Canned soups
With schools out for the summer, there is also an increased need to ensure children still get the nutrition they need on a daily basis to support healthy development. “The summer months are very high need months for us, particularly with so many students at home, and they’re not getting the programs from school that they’re used to getting,” Herndon said. “We already are seeing that.”
• Peanut butter and jelly • Dried pasta and grains
“We have such incredible sourcing power that every dollar donated can provide up to four meals, which is incredible,” Marlow said. “So having donations come in helps us to fill those gaps, helps us to work with the pantries, helps us to put those programs out for people.”
15
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
FM 1488
249
45
*NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY. Promotion Period is August 2, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Central Standard Time and ends on August 2, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Central Standard Time. Participants must be 18 years of age or older, legal residents and must reside in Greater Houston Texas. Making a referral will not increase your chance of winning. Odds depend on the number eligible entries. Additional terms and restrictions apply. Please see https://woodhavyn.com/ disclaimer for a complete set of the Official Rules. **See builders for full details. 7/25 TM
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
99
Real estate
BY LIZZY SPANGLER
Home Edition
2025
Readers, welcome to your annual CI Home Edition! This guide features news ranging from key real estate trends and new developments unique to your neighborhood to insights on the housing market. All of the stories were written by our team of local journalists, and all of the advertisements are from nearby businesses who support our mission to provide free, useful news—show them your gratitude by supporting local businesses. In this edition, we look at year-over-year changes in the real estate market, including the changes in local home sales and prices. We also dive into Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County’s neighborhoods that are underway. Additionally, read on to learn about new property tax legislation and recommendations for pool safety.
Premium sponsor:
Chrissy Leggett General Manager cleggett@ communityimpact.com
Woodhavyn https://woodhavyn.com/grandopening Zip into Fun Grand Opening Free event Sat, Aug 2, 1–4PM! 6 model homes, zipline, prizes & more!
What's inside
Learn about the housing market in Harris County (Page 20)
See how voters can weigh in on property tax cuts (Page 23)
Read about how local home sales changed year over year (Page 27)
For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!
During the first three months of 2025, 29% of Harris County households made the minimum qualifying income to be able to afford a median-priced home in Tomball, per the Houston Association of Realtors’ Q1 Housing and Rental Affordability Report released May 8. In Montgomery County, 47% of households in the county could afford a median-priced home in Magnolia. In the first quarter of 2025, the median home prices in the Tomball and Magnolia areas were $392,000 and $318,000, respectively, according to the report. 29% of county households can buy in Tomball
Zooming out
Housing affordability, Q1 2025
Median home price Median qualifying income Percent change from Q1 2024 to Q1 2025
In the Greater Houston area, 40% of Houston-area households could afford to buy a median-priced home in the first quarter of 2025, according to the report. The median price of a home in the Houston area was $337,400, and households needed to make $95,200 to be able to afford that. Statewide, 40% of households could afford a median-priced home, with households needing to make $94,400 a year to purchase a $334,900 house, according to the report. “What we’ve seen in the early part of 2025 shows a degree of stability in the Houston housing market, which is encouraging news for prospective homebuyers,” HAR Chair Shae Cottar said via news release. “However, with ongoing economic uncertainty, some people are exercising greater caution in their purchasing decisions, including when it comes to buying a home.”
Houston metro
+1.7% +0.98%
$337,400
$95,200
Harris County
+0.4% +0.96%
$325,000
$100,400
Montgomery County
-2.8% -1.25%
$316,000
$96,800
Tomball
+3.6% +9%
$392,000
$116,400
Magnolia
+2.6% +0.8%
$318,000
$97,600
SOURCE: HOUSTON ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS’ Q1 HOUSING AND RENTAL AFFORDABILITY REPORT/COMMUNITY IMPACT
17
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
MADE FOR YOU.
At David Weekley Homes, you are the inspiration behind every decision we make. Your Personal Home Team in Houston will work with you from selection to move-in and beyond — because you deserve a home built with you in mind.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR NEW HOMES NEAR YOU:
Audubon | Colton | Escondido | Kresston Coming Soon — Two Step Farm
Find your dream home by contacting the Houston Team at 713-979-5058
See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2025 David Weekley Homes – All Rights Reserved. Houston, TX (HOU-25-002851)
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN
Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County is nearing the final build-out of its Cedar Creek neighborhood in Conroe—just four homes shy of completing the 129-home development that broke ground in 2009, Deputy Director Erik Armstrong said. The nonprofit is now preparing to break ground on a second neighborhood, Marble Creek, located in unincorporated Magnolia. “This was the best investment for the organization at the time,” Armstrong said. “We’re able to really help just give the opportunity to a very vastly growing area of the county and serve an area of the county that is largely underserved.” Marble Creek will be Habitat’s largest undertaking yet, Armstrong said, aiming to provide over 200 homes for families who meet program criteria. The 81-acre tract of land was donated by Brian and Shirelle Chimenti, and the development will feature a park, walking trails and green space to create a strong sense of neighborhood connection, Executive Director Vicki Johnson said. Unlike Cedar Creek, which received city infrastructure support, Marble Creek’s location outside city limits means the nonprofit must fund $11.5 million in infrastructure such as roads and drainage. Despite challenges, leaders said the effort will offer more than just housing. “We believe that not only do we provide this amazing home for families to have an opportunity to thrive, but we also contribute back to the local economy,” Johnson said. Nonprofit works to build neighborhoods
Habitat for Humanity's requirements prior to move-in Applicants must meet three requirements to qualify for housing. Then they must check off requirements prior to move-in, Executive Director Vicki Johnson said.
The overview
To qualify for a Habitat home, applicants must meet three requirements: a need for better housing, the ability to pay a mortgage, and a willingness to partner with Habitat, Johnson said. The need for a better housing is determined by the living situation of applicants. There is no down payment, but closing costs of $2,000–$3,500 are required, Armstrong said. Homes range from one to four bedrooms and the average mortgage for Cedar Creek residents is about $900.
350 hours helping build their new home
Complete financial literacy class
Complete home maintenance class
Pay closing costs
SOURCE: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Neighborhoods’ timeline
The full story
2004 Cedar Creek land donated
Cedar Creek began with a 37-acre land donation in 2004, with construction starting in 2009. Over 16 years later, the neighborhood is nearly built out. Johnson said volunteer support and fundraising were essential to keeping the project alive. “There is a lot of heart in this work,” Johnson said. Habitat hopes to replicate that community-driven momentum in Marble Creek. The nonprofit is work- ing to complete its capital campaign to fund the infrastructure and housing construction. The goal is to build 200 homes in 10 years, Armstrong said. Homes average 1,100 square feet and are built without garages to minimize costs. Armstrong said he estimates it costs $125,000 to build each home. About $75,000 is covered through sponsorships; the rest is raised through grants and donations. “Volunteers gave almost a half a million dollars in donated time to the organization,” Johnson said. “We’re a small team, but it’s with the hands of volunteers and fundraising.”
2009 Cedar Creek construction begins
2025 Cedar Creek nears completion; Marble Creek breaks ground
2026 First homes planned in Marble Creek
2027 Anticipated move-ins to Marble Creek
2035 Anticipated completion of Marble Creek
SOURCE: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The impact
Families gain stability and independence through affordable mortgages, not handouts, Johnson said, which is a key difference. Many continue giving back even after moving in by volunteering to help build homes for future neighbors. “This is their neighborhood—and they help build it, literally,” Johnson said. People can donate or support the capital campaign online at www.habitatmctx.org.
Every home built creates an economic ripple. For every $1 invested, $1.62 is returned to the local economy through construction jobs, contractor payments and local spending, Johnson said. “We hire local trades, use local suppliers, and engage thousands of volunteers,” Johnson said. “We serve those who are the backbone of our community—teachers, health care workers, service employees.”
Cedar Creek neighborhood
N
COUNTRY PINES CT.
RED OAK LN.
Marble Creek neighborhood
N
19
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
Real estate
BY MELISSA ENAJE
BY JULIANNA WASHBURN
Livability, affordability threatened in Harris County by rising climate risks
Pool remodel manager Karl Steinbacher shares pool safety tips With summer in full swing, Community Impact interviewed Karl Steinbacher, the remodel manager for Sunrise Pool Renovations, on what safety features he recommends homeowners keep around backyard pools as well as costs associated with common renovations. Sunrise Pool Renovations serves the North Houston area. What trends in safety features have you seen recently? When it comes to safety ... that’s something that people have a tendency to put on the back burner just because they don’t necessarily think of it. ... My theory on pool safety is that denied access is by far and away the best remedy. So, some type of pool fencing is the best way to go when it comes to securing the swim area.
Factors such as rising home prices, surging premiums and growing climate risks are reshaping how and where Harris County residents live. Key findings
Is a pool cover a feature you recommend for safety reasons? People do put covers on. The reason I’m not a huge cover guy is because they’re not easy to [put on] and put back. What happens is that the homeowners do it a couple of times and then it ends up rolled up ... and doesn’t get used anymore. Are there other recommendations you like to make when homeowners have pools and young kids? One thing I always find interesting is that homeowners won’t hesitate to spend a couple of $100 on a nice float for the pool, but they won’t spend a couple of $100 on safety items—like what we call a ring buoy ... or, like a fixed pole with a shepherd’s hook. ... It’s things like that that we find is the easiest to recommend. What would be a good alternative for a pool cover if someone is focused on safety? They make a pool mesh that comes in 3-foot panels that they can configure so that you can secure the pool off and not kill your backyard or kill your patio.
More than 20% of all county housing units are in one of three major flood areas: floodways, the 100-year flood plain and the 500-year flood plain* 63 of 143 Harris County neighborhoods experienced population loss between 2018 and 2023 $15,000 on average is being added to home insurance costs brought upon by extreme weather events
Extreme weather and climate change are seeing ripple effects on neighborhood livability across Harris County, according to a June 17 report by Rice University’s Kinder Institute of Urban Research. Housing experts recommend data-driven infra- structure planning and accurate flood risk mapping to address climate risks across the county. “The risk is going to continue to grow, and it’s really on us to figure out and start to understand what we do with these spaces where we have so much infrastructure and economic investment and development in a place like Houston,” said Jeremy Porter, head of climate implications research at the nonprofit First Street. Porter said his work has translated into actionable insights in the housing space, including adding climate-risk scores to housing search websites so
buyers can understand how much risk could cost in the future. “It’s important for us to start to think about what are the smartest ways we can adapt to the risk we have today. But let’s future-proof it and build for what the climate is going to be like in 30 years,” Porter said. Digging deeper In fact, Harris County lost nearly 80 square miles, or more than 51,000 acres of green space from 2014 to 2023, to developments, which could lead to more flood and heat risks, officials said. Taking precipi- tation into account is part of calculating flood risks, Porter said. “Climate correcting these authoritative pieces that drive things like infrastructure development, stormwater management, all of the infrastructure
Backyard pool safety options Pool fencing Ring buoy Fixed pole with shepherds hook
Floating monitors Security cameras
*A 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN HAS A 1% CHANCE OF BEING FLOODED IN ANY GIVEN YEAR, WHILE A 500-YEAR FLOODPLAIN HAS A 0.2% CHANCE. SOURCE: KINDER INSTITUTE FOR URBAN RESEARCH/COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: SUNRISE POOL RENOVATIONS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
that is put into a city like Houston relies on [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration] Atlas 14 precipitation records,” Porter said. “We should be building infrastructure to not only address today’s risk but future risk, so it’s not outdated immediately as we build that.”
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com.
TOMBALL PARKWAY 28595 Tomball Pkwy (281) 290-7810
THE WOODLANDS 10491 Kuykendahl (281) 681-9110
SPRING STUEBNER 6603 Spring Stuebner Rd (281) 288-0239
GOSLING ROAD SPRING 24527 Gosling Rd (281) 516-9404
LIVE WILD
FALL 2025
Experience the perfect balance of connectivity and vibrant energy at Wildtree. Nestled near Highway 249 in Magnolia, you’ll enjoy easy access to Houston, College Station and beyond. With exciting planned amenities and starlit nights right in your own backyard, every day becomes extraordinary. Wildtree — Live Wild.
New Homes from the $ 300s – $ 800s
Models are not an indication of racial preference. Floor plans, maps and renderings are artist’s conception based on preliminary information, not to scale and subject to change. This is not an offer of real estate for sale, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Pricing does not include options, elevation, or lot premiums, effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. All square footages and measurements are approximate and subject to change without notice. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. School enrollment and boundaries subject to change. Equal Housing Opportunity. 3/25 TM
Join our VIP list!
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
BY HANNAH NORTON
This November, voters across Texas will be asked to approve larger property tax breaks for homeowners and businesses. Gov. Greg Abbott signed the three proposals into law June 16. But because the tax cuts would be enshrined in the state Constitution, voters will have the final say. If voters approve the constitutional amendments Nov. 4, homeowners will see increased exemptions from school district taxes, with the largest reduction for seniors and people with disabilities. Business owners would also see a reduction in the taxes paid on their inventory. “These exemptions, once you vote for them in November, will be there... for life,” Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, said June 16. Voters will have final say on property tax cuts
Zooming in
How it works
In a June 11 interview, Abbott said that because the state does not levy property taxes, it also cannot make direct tax cuts. “I know Texans are frustrated about what’s going on. ... Local jurisdictions, in my opinion, have imposed too much property taxes on our fellow Texans,” he said June 11. To limit homeowners’ tax bills, Abbott has suggested requiring entities to receive two-thirds approval from local voters before they can raise tax rates.
The proposed tax cuts will appear on the Nov. 4 ballot as state propositions.
Senate Bill 4
By Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, would: • Raise the statewide tax exemption for all homeowners from $100,000 to $140,000 • Apply only to taxes levied by public schools • Save the average homeowner about $484 annually
Senate Bill 23
By Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, would: • Give homeowners who are over 65 years old or have a disability a $200,000 exemption • Apply only to taxes levied by public schools • Save seniors and people with disabilities about $950 annually
Texas’ tax system
The state of Texas does not charge property taxes. Homeowners are taxed by over 3,700 local governments, including:
House Bill 9
By Rep. Morgan Meyer, R-University Park, would: • Exempt up to $125,000 of businesses’ inventory from taxation, up from $2,500 today • Save the average small-business owner about $2,500 annually
School districts
Cities and counties
Texas would spend:
SOURCES: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE, SEN. PAUL BETTENCOURT’S OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
$10B to ensure school districts do not lose revenue as a result of the proposed tax breaks
About 37% of Texans rent their homes, accord- ing to the progressive think tank Every Texan. Some lawmakers said they were concerned that the proposed tax cuts would not benefit renters. “A lot of renters indirectly pay a property tax by their monthly payments,” Rep. Armando Walle, D-Houston, said on the House floor May 20. “We need to continue to look at renters, those folks that are working shift jobs or may not have enough yet to save up for a home.”
Hospital districts
Junior college districts
$51B, or 15% of the 2026-27 budget , to maintain existing property tax relief and fund the expanded exemptions
SOURCE: TEXAS COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS/ COMMUNITY IMPACT
Municipal utility districts
SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Dog & Cat Boarding • Dog Training & Agility • Dog & Cat Grooming • Doggie Daycare
Cage Free Dog Boarding
LEGO RETIRED & PREOWNED SETS, PLUS MINIFIGS & BULK BRICKS ® BIRTHDAY PARTIES & CAMPS FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED
TOMBALL, TX
New Customers Only. Not Valid on Hol idays.
BOARDING or GROOMING
Open 7 Days a Week, 365 Days a Year Mon-Sun 7am-7pm
9/15/25
11105 Mahaffey | Tomball, TX 77375 | 832-884-6122 | WillowCreekPets.com
21179 Tomball Parkway
23
TOMBALL - MAGNOLIA EDITION
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20-21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40Powered by FlippingBook