Pearland - Friendswood Edition | April 2025

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

Pearland Friendswood Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 5 APRIL 15MAY 12, 2025

Renewing Pearland Old Town Several parts of Old Town in Pearland could be upgraded in the coming years as ocials prepare and nalize a revitalization plan for the area. The plan comes after months of planning and surveying the Pearland community to eventually bring the plan to City Council for approval. INSIDE 26

Future renovation site Includes a exible play eld, mixed-use development and housing

Future renovation site Includes a restaurant/

entertainment venue and an enhanced paving festival street

MAIN ST.

Future renovation site Includes a welcome center, event space, and business and community hub

JAMAAL ELLISCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Also in this issue

Subscribe to our free daily email newsletter!

Education: Learn about a new cellphone policy Friendswood ISD ocials are discussing (Page 11)

Transportation: Get updates on a variety of road projects taking place across Pearland (Page 17)

You are in the hands of unparalleled orthopedic care.

Our care revolves around you, to get you back on your game and keep you there. Whether you need relief from tendinitis or a torn ligament, you’ll get the same leading-edge treatments that we provide to the Houston Rockets. To help you come back sooner and stronger. This is orthopedic care designed around you. memorialhermann.org/orthopedics

Advancing health. Personalizing care.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Canterra Creek is a premier master-planned community conveniently located along Hwy 288 just south of Pearland, providing easy access to major employers, exceptional dining, exciting entertainment and a variety of shopping. When you come home to Canterra Creek, your best life is just beginning.

• 20-minute drive to the Med Center • Leisure pool for hours of relaxing • Access to the nearby Sierra Vista Amenity Village anchored by a heated lazy river • Two future on-site schools

AMENITY VILLAGE NOW OPEN!

Meet Our Family of Builders!

* Prices and availability of homes are subject to change without notice. On-site school details and access to Sierra Vista Amenity Village subject to change without notice. Canterra Creek pool access and other amenity features are subject to a seasonal opening schedule. 2/25

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

MAKE YOUR MOVE TO RICELAND TODAY!

From the mid $300s 12030 Grassy Bend Drive Mont Belvieu, TX 77523

FIND YOUR HOME

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 Asia Armour Angela Bonilla Melissa Enaje Valeria Escobar Wesley Gardner Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Ryan Reynolds Nichaela Shaheen Jessica Shorten Haley Velasco Aubrey Vogel Kevin Vu Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Papar Faircloth General Manager pfaircloth@ communityimpact.com

Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White Ronald Winters Account Executive Lindsay Radenz Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Product Manager Kaitlin Schmidt Quality Desk Editor Sierra Rozen

James T. Norman Editor jnorman@ communityimpact.com

Jason Culpepper Houston Market President jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 2814696181 CI careers

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

Join CI Patron for exclusive newsletters and swag.

communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact plfnews@communityimpact.com plfads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

Press releases

Advertising

Email newsletters

communityimpact.com/newsletter

PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Impacts

2 3

TELEPHONE RD.

MCHARD RD.

Pearland

521

W. BROA D W A

518

WALNUT ST.

Friendswood

1 5

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

288

FLYAWAY DR.

OSPREY DR.

BAILEY A V E .

11 18

MCKEEVER RD.

WHISPERING PINES AVE.

SOUTH ST.

2351

ROYAL TERN WAY

528

Manvel

MAP NOT TO SCALE

5 Cabrera The shop sells clothing and candles. Various accessories

Now open

Coming soon

are also available. • Opened March 17 • 11200 Broadway St., Ste. 1380, Pearland • www.dysycabrera.com

1 Space City Collective The sneaker store lets customers buy, sell and trade vintage sneakers. It also sells streetwear brands like Supreme and Nike. The business is locally and family operated. • Opened Feb. 25 • 11200 Broadway St., Ste. 140, Pearland • www.spacecitycollectiveshop.com 2 Irrigation Station The business offers outdoor lighting, drainage, turf supplies, soil management tools and more. The company has more than a dozen locations in Texas. • Opened March 14 • 11217 Telephone Road, Ste. B-125, Houston • www.irrigationstation.com 3 Texas Pool Supply The wholesale distributor of pool supplies sells fire pits, pumps, filters, heaters, chemicals, repair parts, grills, lighting and outdoor living products. • Opened March 14 • 11217 Telephone Road, Ste. B-100, Houston • www.txpoolsupply.com 4 Old Town Nursery The nursery sells trees, shrubs, flowers and pottery items,

10 Waxing the City Pearland The business will offer a variety of waxing services, including Brazilian, facial hair, waxing for various body parts, as well as brow and lash services. • Opening mid-May to early June • 2810 Business Center Drive, Ste. 112, Pearland • www.waxingthecity.com/locations/347/us/tx/pearland 11 Rosebranch Dermatology The clinic will offer medical and cosmetic dermatology for patients of all ages. These services include treatment for skin conditions and cosmetic treatments. • Opening in May • 308 S. Friendswood Drive, Ste. 110, Friendswood • www.rosebranchdermatology.com 12 Friendswood Hospital The facility has been delayed for a second time since last year. It will include emergency care; cardiology, or heart care; gastroenterology, or digestive system care; pulmonary, or lung care; an internal medicine specialist; orthopedics, or bone care; and radiology. • Opening in June 13 Ambriza Social Mexican Kitchen The eatery will open its fourth Houston-area location in Webster, offering authentic Mexican dishes such as mestizo rice, enchiladas, chicken mole and quesabirria. • Opening in the summer • 110 Osprey Drive, Webster • www.ambriza.com • 3201 FM 528 Road, Friendswood • www.friendswoodhospital.com

6 Tejanos Buffet The buffet offers barbecue, Tejano cuisine, comfort food, seafood and salads. • Opened March 22

• 2422 S. Gordon St., Alvin • Facebook: Tejanos buffet

7 Cafecito Latin Coffee Shop The Latin coffee shop will serve locally-baked pastries, tea, coffee and cold brew. • Opened March 30 • 106 Whispering Pines Ave., Ste. 101, Friendswood • www.cafecitolatincoffeeshop.com 8 Milano Nail Spa Manvel The spa offers manicures and pedicures, along with various other nail services. • Opened March 30 • 17221 Hwy. 6, Ste. 103, Manvel • Facebook: Milano Nail Spa 9 HTeaO The business offers a menu filled with tea and coffee drinks, including in different flavors. • Opened April 5 • 1234 E. Broadway St., Pearland • www.hteao.com

among other items. • Opened March 15

• 2814 S. Main St., Pearland • www.oldtownnursery.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

14 Aki Steak & Sushi The restaurant will serve a number of items such as hibachi dinners with vegetable and various meat options, bento boxes and sushi plates, among other items and appetizers. • Opening in spring • 17307 Hwy. 6, Ste. 108, Manvel • www.akisteakandsushi.com 15 Five Guys The national burger joint is known for its burgers, shakes and fries. Hotdogs, sandwiches and a variety of drinks will also be on the menu. • Opening in the fall • 21716 Hwy. 288, Ste. 107, Manvel • www.fiveguys.com 16 Lowe’s Home Improvement The hardware and home improvement store, which sells a number of items related to home, gardening and construction supplies, broke ground in March. Officials said the store will be a key tenant to the area around

17 Ale & Ivy The restaurant and sports bar will offer a diverse menu that includes loaded fries, mac and cheese, steak, burgers, pizza and tacos, as well as other attractions. • Opening early 2026 • 335 Royal Tern Way, Webster • www.aleandivy.com

Now open

Relocations

18 Luxie Plum The boutique moved to a new spot in Friendswood and held a grand opening at its new spot Feb. 27. The business sells a variety of clothing, jewelry and other goods, such as diffusers. • Relocated in February • 308 S. Friendswood Drive, Ste. 100, Friendswood • www.luxieplum.com 19 Cottontail Formally known as Little Cottontail, the business moved to another spot in Friendswood. It is a children’s boutique store that sells clothing and various accessories. • Relocated in April

20 Wrap & Roll The restaurant serves fried rice, fusion tacos, lettuce wraps and spring rolls, among other menu items. This is the third location, with the others being located in Clear Lake and Pearland. • Opened Feb. 24 • 2540 E. Broadway St., Ste. E, Pearland • Facebook: Wrap & Roll

Manvel Town Center. • Opening late 2025 • 21606 Hwy. 288, Manvel • www.lowes.com

• 160 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • christine@cottontailcollections.com

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. And with that full-service convenience banking comes our HomeTown, accessible team of friendly staff members and their commitment to serving the Pearland community. We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. And with that full-service convenience banking comes our HomeTown, accessible team of friendly staff members and their commitment to serving the Pearland community. YES, WE DO. We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. And with that full-service convenience banking comes our HomeTown, accessible team of friendly staff members and their commitment to serving the Pearland community. We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. And with that full-service convenience banking comes our HomeTown, accessible team of friendly staff members and their commitment to serving the Pearland community. YES, WE DO. YES, DO.

4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses* 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses* 4 Free app for your smartphone 4 Send money to friends and family using their email or phone number* 4 Instant debit card transaction alerts with SecurLock Equip 4 Move money easily between external accounts* 4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses* Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit *Fees could apply Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: Equipment loans Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Move money easily between external accounts* 4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses Free app for your smartphone Send money to friends and family using their email or phone number* 4 Instant debit card transaction alerts with SecurLock Equip 4 Move money easily between external accounts* 4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses 4 Free app for your smartphone 4 Send money to friends and family using their email or phone number* 4 Instant debit card transaction alerts with SecurLock Equip 4 Move money easily between external accounts* 4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses* 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses* *Fees could apply 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit

Fear can seem inevitable–part of who we are. But understanding God’s all-embracing love can overcome fear,reveal peace, and move life forward. MOVING PAST FEAR TO HEALING

SCAN FOR MORE INFO

A talk on Christian Science Lisa Troseth, CSB | Christian Science practitioner and teacher | Member of the Christian Science Board of Lectureship SAT • APRIL 26 • 11AM Hosted by First Church of Christ, Scientist, 1700 Winding Way Drive Friendswood, TX 77546 | (281) 648-1217

Your local

RESTAURANT OPENINGS LOCAL NEWS news source for...

BUSINESS UPDATES

Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager

*Fees could apply

Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager

*Fees could apply

Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager

Scan here to sign up for our FREE email newsletter

OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY RACHEL LELAND & JAMES T. NORMAN

Pearland votes against rezoning nearly 7 acres of land Pearland City Council at its March 24 meeting unanimously voted down a request to rezone 6.6 acres of land from general business to gen- eral commercial that, if approved, would have helped to accommodate an office-warehouse development. BROADWAY ST.

Manvel discusses road impact fees

Manvel City Council on March 17 directed city staff to look into requiring road impact fees to help offset the cost of new develop- ment and avoid burdening taxpayers. What readers need to know The discussion was centered around a pre- sentation and did not involve any vote, with officials clarifying a study will be needed before any fees are approved. Mayor Dan Davis said he “absolutely thinks” the city should use such fees as a dedicated fund to improve roads and avoid burdening taxpayers. What’s next? City staff said a study required for the fees would take around nine months to complete.

For the developer to build the space, the city needed to rezone several acres of land that sits east of Cullen Parkway. What happened Faraz Hemani, CEO of Pebble Ridge Capital Group, which is a real estate private equity company, made the request on behalf of Mission Park Pearland LP, represented by Terry Ward, who is the property owner. Hemani said he’d spoken with local businesses worried about rent costs. He said he believes developing the office-warehouse would attract small-scale businesses who have otherwise strug- gled to afford the rent of a traditional office space.

The options While City Council voted the request down, members asked the applicant to return with a request that included a planned development proposal. This would include clearer conditions and restrictions for the development. City Council also asked Hemani to consider a planned development as it would directly address previous city concerns regarding traffic impact and design aesthetics.

Nurture a child’s curiosity and it will blossom.

Your child is growing fast, and by the time they’re 5 years old, their brain will be 90% developed. That’s why it’s so important to nurture the cognitive, physical and emotional skills now that will set them up for success in the future.

Learn more about the Primrose schools in the Greater Houston area.

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.

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Good Friday Reflective Service • April 18 • 6PM Saturday • April 19 • 6PM Sunday • April 20 • 8, 9:30 & 11AM WORSHIP WITH US THIS EASTER

ON THE THIRD DAY HE CHANGED EVERYTHING

second.org/easter

Ben Young, Senior Pastor 12008 Shadow Creek Pkwy at Reflection Bay Dr

11555 Magnolia Pkwy., Suite 170 Pearland, TX 77584 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org

Promotion not sponsored by the Houston Astros. Insured by NCUA.

MERIDIANA IN MANVEL NEW HOMES READY NOW

Impressive 3,000-acre master-plan On-site elementary school / Alvin ISD Full-time, on-site lifestyle coordinator MASTER-PLAN SPANNING 1,130 ACRES!

HOMES FROM THE HIGH $500s

CALL TO LEARN ABOUT OUR LIMITED TIME SPECIAL INCENTIVES! (281) 306-5906

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY HALEY VELASCO

FISD looks at potential new cellphone policy While a new policy has not yet been set, Friend- swood ISD officials are inching closer toward an “away for the day” cellphone policy for the 2025-26 school year. The overview At the March 10 board meeting, officials presented the following options for student cellphone usage: • Instructional time only, which is the same policy FISD currently has in which cellphones have to be put away during class • “Away for the day,” meaning cellphones must be out of sight during school hours, including during lunch, in between class periods, etc. • “Away for the day” with YONDR pouches, which are lockable phone pouches The options were also presented to the district’s “Think Tank,” which consists of 24 FISD members,

PISD OKs $3.8M for campus re-roofing Re-roofing projects at Pearland Junior High East and Jamison Middle School will start soon after the Pearland ISD board of trustees approved $3.8 million for re-roofing projects at its March 11 meeting. What’s happening? The contract was awarded to Hous- ton-based roofing contractor Strategic Roofing Solutions, LLC, according to district agenda documents. Pearland Junior High East’s re-roofing project will cost over $2 million, while Jamison Middle School’s project will cost nearly $1.8 million, according to district documents. Both re-roofing projects are a part of the district’s $105 million bond that passed in 2024, district documents note.

‘Think Tank’ survey results Most of the 24 FISD stakeholders surveyed as part of a “Think Tank” voted to require phones be stored in lockable pouches. Away for the day with lockable phone pouches Away for the day—no cellphones all day No cellphones during instructional time only

12.5%

50%

58.3%

25%

Junior high

High school

16.7%

37.5%

SOURCE: FRIENDSWOOD ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

including administrators, students, parents and teachers from each campus. The board will potentially consider a new policy at its April 14 meeting.

Alvin ISD approves nearly $4M budget amendment

$3.8M budget amendment

Tornado-related expenditures: $2.3M Transportation: $995K

documents show. Those expenses included upgrading campus furniture, technology, transportation and other urgent needs stemming from the damage. The approved budget amendment also included replacing the marching tower at Manvel High School, district phones and security cameras, and adding more vehicles for student and faculty transportation, according to district documents.

Alvin ISD’s board of trustees approved the district’s sixth budget amendment, worth about $3.8 million, for fiscal year 2024-25 at its March 11 meeting. What you need to know The majority of the amendment included expenses related to the EF-2 tornado that hit Walt Disney Elementary School in December,

District phones, cameras and wiring replacement: $269K Replacing marching tower at Manvel High School: $120K

New implementation to career and technical education curriculum: $50K Reupholstering campus furniture: $46K Platform carts: $13K

SOURCE: ALVIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

At UTMB Health, we’re dedicated to making a difference where we live and work. While our research and innovation may transform lives worldwide, our focus remains on delivering exceptional clinical care for our local communities—just as we’ve done for more than 130 years. Every day, our physicians, nurses, and their clinical teams provide compassionate, personalized care, ensuring you and your family receive the best treatment. Trust UTMB Health to combine global expertise with a heartfelt commitment to improving lives, right here at home . Caring for Our Community

utmbhealth.com

The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) is in-network for most major insurance plans.

Earn premium rates with our relationship bonus.

Here, we collaborate. Here, you grow. Amegy Bank can help you take your savings to the next level—with the products you need to help grow your future. Earn up to 1.00% APY on top of our standard rates with our Money Market Accounts when you link it to a qualifying business or consumer checking account.

Learn more at AmegyBank.com/RateBonus or visit one of our branches to start working with a dedicated Amegy Banker.

Friendswood 218 East Parkwood Avenue Friendswood, TX 77546

Pearland 1930 Country Place Parkway, Suite 114 Pearland, TX 77584

1. Please refer to the Deposit Account Agreement, Account Disclosure, Deposit Rate Sheet and the applicable schedule of fees, or speak with a banker for more details. 2. Advertised premium rate effective as of 04/01/2025 available on Personal or Business Money Market accounts for account balances of $1,000.00 to $99,999,99 when you link a Personal Premium Interest Checking, Personal Premier Checking, Premier Elite Checking, Business Connect Checking, Business Interest Checking, or Community Checking accounts. Your interest rate and annual percentage yield (APY) may change at our discretion at any time. The APY assumes that interest paid remains in the account. A withdrawal will reduce earnings. We use the daily balance method to calculate the interest on your account. This method applies a daily periodic rate to the collected balance in your account each day. Interest compounds daily and will be credited to your account monthly. If you close your account before interest is credited, you will not receive accrued interest. Interest begins to accrue no later than the business day we receive credit for the deposit of noncash (checks). 3. Premium rate tiers are applied automatically to linked money market or savings accounts, CDs, and IRA accounts when the primary owner of the checking account is also an owner of the linked interest bearing account. Please see Deposit Rate Sheet for details.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY HALEY VELASCO

Voter Guide

2025

Dates to know

Where to vote

April 22 First day of early voting April 22: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) April 29: Last day of early voting May 3: Election day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or May 5 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Brazoria County residents can cast their ballots at any polling location during early voting; however, election day locations are by precinct. Visit www.brazoriacountyclerktx.gov for polling locations.

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

KEY: *Incumbent

What do you think can be done to help the district keep up with its growth? The district has eectively managed growth. Bonds were called and voter approved in 2013, 2015, 2018 and 2024. These bonds met the growth demand and allowed the district to continue the mission of providing quality educational opportunities for students, while also providing a reduction in the tax rate. To keep pace with growth, AISD should actively engage with corporations and community builders as part of strategic planning. Regular collaboration will help anticipate infrastructure needs and ensure schools are prepared for the 6,000 students expected in the next decade, fostering sustainable development and academic excellence.

Alvin ISD board, Position 4

What are your priorities, if elected?

I will continue to advocate for students’ needs by investing in innovative course oerings including career and technical education, school safety, student social-emotional needs, teacher burnout and managing the fast growth in the district.

Regan Peterson* Occupation & experience: assistant director, Mays Business School, Texas A&M University; AISD trustee Facebook: Regan Metoyer Peterson for Alvin ISD Trustee

As a school board trustee, I’ll prioritize student well-being, campus safety and balanced cellphone policies. Drawing from my principal experience, I’ll champion robust professional development for teachers and leaders, ensuring safe, engaging environments where students thrive academically and emotionally.

Brian K. Roberson II Occupation & experience:

educational consultant, former high school principal, special ed teacher Facebook: Brian K. Roberson II for Alvin ISD Board of Trustee - Position 4

AISD is a leader at keeping up with student growth. In the past 13 years, enrollment has grown from 19,000 to 30,000-plus students. I applaud their process of a Citizen Advisory Committee, where they explore new growth patterns and facility needs, and aging facilities are evaluated. What do you think can be done to help the district keep up with its growth?

Alvin ISD board, Position 5

What are your priorities, if elected?

My priorities are to ensure the educational growth of every student, retain the caring and talented teachers, sta and leaders, meet enrollment growth needs and continue scal responsibility during these challenging times.

Cheryl B. Harris Occupation & experience: social work, [former] Alvin ISD trustee, 12 years of service Facebook: Cheryl Harris for Alvin ISD Board, Position 5 T’Liza Kiel Occupation & experience: non- prot national program director, consultant, Youth Mental Health rst aid instructor, combat veteran www.tlizaforalvinisd.com

Advocating for families, bridging gaps to unite as one community, fostering eective communication, supporting behavioral health and ensuring collaboration between educators, students and local organizations for a stronger AISD.

Prioritize strategic facility planning, community engagement and partnerships to ensure sustainable growth. Align expansion with industry needs, explore innovative solutions like optimized scheduling and collaborate with local government for funding. Eective communication and proactive planning will keep AISD thriving while maintaining high-quality education for all students.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Election

BY HALEY VELASCO

KEY: *Incumbent

What programming, if any, would you like to see changed, adjusted and/or added? Based on my experience as an educator and business leader, I propose expansion of CTE programs to include career pathways like plumbing and electrical; partner with local businesses/ organizations for career opportunities; add technology classes/curriculum to prepare students for real-world systems; introduce nancial literacy as a stand-alone class. I want to expand special education to include parent literacy, ensuring families understand the [admission, review and dismissal] process. As a parent who has navigated it for eight years, I know the challenges rsthand. Additionally, I’d love to see the social connections program grow to support more students across the district.

Pearland ISD board, Position 5

What are your priorities, if elected?

Based on my educational background, and experience in the classroom, I would like to collaborate with board members and superintendent on enhancing teacher recruitment/retention; evaluating and enhancing safety/security; including mental health needs; maintaining district academic strengths and enhancing CTE oerings.

Daniel Stuckey Occupation & experience: director of sales, marketing; former AP teacher and coach; executive board member-PISD Education Foundation Facebook: Daniel Stuckey for Pearland ISD School Board Trustee Azania Salazar Occupation & experience: special education paraprofessional, PISD substitute, CJ Harris Elementary PTO [Parent-Teacher Organization] www.salazarforpearland.com

My priorities are advocating for students, supporting teachers and increased funding for special education. I will work to ensure our teachers receive competitive pay and our special education programs are fully funded and eective. Together we can build a stronger Pearland ISD.

What programming, if any, would you like to see changed, adjusted and/or added? Pearland ISD oers 26 of 60-plus career and technical education pathways. I want to explore adding pathways that align with workforce needs and set students up for success. Additionally, I support investing in early intervention programs to provide students and families with the support they need as early as possible.

Pearland ISD board, Position 6

What are your priorities, if elected?

Ensuring every student receives a top-notch education, supporting educators and strengthening parent engagement to build a stronger community. I will be a visible, engaged trustee, present at school events, campus visits and meetings with parents, teachers and students.

Jenny Francis* Occupation & experience: stay- at-home mom, Air Force veteran, homeowners’ association board director, PTA president Facebook: Jenny Francis, Pearland ISD School Board Trustee Jim Johnson Occupation & experience: Pearland Chamber of Commerce president/ CEO, PISD Education Foundation board, husband to PISD teacher Facebook: Jim Johnson for Pearland ISD Board Position 6

Advocate for the resources our schools need to thrive. We must guarantee that our educators have the resources they need, our students are engaged and our parents’ voices are valued. I am committed to making thoughtful, student-centered decisions that put the needs of our children rst.

I would like to see more access to dual language programs, allowing students to become bilingual and culturally enriched. Additionally, expanding special needs programs with tailored support services would ensure that all students, regardless of ability, receive the attention and resources they need to thrive academically.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

KEY: *Incumbent

How can Manvel deal with its growth in a scally responsible way? Manvel must balance growth with nancial responsibility by fostering public-private partnerships, securing grants and state funding, and ensuring new developments contribute their fair share to infrastructure. Encouraging commercial development will help diversify our tax base and Continuing to incorporate community feedback into the development of our strategic and comprehensive plans while conducting accurate and thorough analysis of market and demographic data to enable us to make informed and transparent decisions on what areas to responsibly allocate funding in amounts that will not create revenue crises. reduce reliance on residential property taxes. Additionally, gaining more citizen oversight and consistently gathering…

Manvel City Council, Place 4

What will your biggest priority be if elected? My top priority is smart, strategic growth—ensuring that as Manvel expands, we do so in a way that strengthens our community without placing unnecessary burdens on residents. This means attracting more dining and entertainment options, supporting both local businesses and not just big chains, enhancing technology infrastructure and preserving the… Continue collaborative council eorts to plan and execute managed, smart growth strategies that will promote the expansion of healthy economic development and generate revenue for funding infrastructure development and maintenance, stang and equipment needed for quality city services provision while also easing the nancial burden to our citizens.

Edward “Ed” Perry* Occupation & experience: veterans benets outreach coordinator, MEDC [Manvel Economic Development Corporation], Manvel Charter Review Commission, City Council member www.edwardperry.org Carmyn Robey-Robinson Occupation & experience: software developer, leadership experience, specialist in problem-solving and strategic planning, local business advocate www.manvelproud2025.com

Manvel City Council, Place 6

Robina Spruill Occupation & experience:

Garrett Rossi Knox Occupation & experience: Park Manager for Rossi RV Park and owner of Live Oak Publishing LLC 832-922-8275 www.knoxformanvel.com

Kathryn Ducommun Occupation & experience: caterer, attending council meetings and inuencing new ordinance creation while seeing it come to fruition 832-331-4269 www.katducommun.com

Manvel [Municipal Utility District] Director No. 29, [Manvel Economic Development Corporation] board member, community activist 281-845-4257

What will your biggest priority be if elected? If elected, I’ll prioritize balanced growth for Manvel by improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses and enhancing safety. My goal is to invest in parks, recreation and quality services while preserving our small-town charm. I want every resident to feel heard, valued and connected in our community.

Better roads, better drainage, a well-equipped police force, more parks/green space and the protection of our historic trees. Manvel is a fast-growing city with many needs, narrowing down to a single priority is impossible … we simply need too many things to be protected and improved.

My biggest priority is our drainage and new inclusive parks because both have been personal challenges faced growing up in Manvel. I have been advocating for our home and neighbors for years with new development and proper drainage for all of us.

How can Manvel deal with its growth in a scally responsible way?

Manvel's growth is promising but requires a responsible plan focused on infrastructure, schools and public safety. I support strategic partnerships and seeking state and federal funding for key projects. Growth must align with our ability to provide essential services, ensuring we maintain our quality of life.

Owning a small business and running two others has taught me the importance of balancing a budget. … I like numbers. Manvel will continue to grow and bring in sales tax. Managed growth is something I support. I will not rubber stamp every development that comes before the council.

We have to make better deals with developers. We can’t continue to take a hit on property taxes and see no real benet. We need to ask more in-depth questions and make sure the language in contracts [is] appropriate.

SIMPLIFY YOUR TAX PREPARATION & BOOKKEEPING! THE RIGHT ETHICS. THE RIGHT NUMBERS. THE RIGHT WAY!

Where INTENTIONAL care matters All-inclusive Rates Fully Furnished Rooms

11601 Shadow Creek Pkwy #113 Pearland, TX 77584 Call us today! 713.413.4172 www.trcfinancialservices.com

Come Visit us!

FID# 111611 - 111612

PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD EDITION

Election

BY RACHEL LELAND

Friendswood City Council, Position 6

What is the biggest challenge you see for Friendswood in the coming years? The biggest challenge I see for Friendswood is that we are quickly running out of undeveloped land. As things evolve, there will need to be reviews of city ordinances and allowed uses of properties. Innovative thinking and problem-solving skills will be key.

What will your biggest priority be if elected?

My biggest priority would be to ensure strong communication with the community. I plan to continue being present and visible in the community and encourage citizens to communicate their concerns.

Thomas Hinckley Occupation & experience: business owner, served two years as Planning & Zoning Commission chairman, business owner in project management www.votetomhinckley.com Michael Ross Occupation & experience: real estate developer, [Municipal Utility District] board president, drainage planning, park planning, transportation planning www.electmichaelross.com

My top priority is ensuring all public works projects are properly funded and completed on time, with a strong focus on flooding and drainage issues. I regret how long some projects, like Blackhawk Boulevard, have taken, and I will work to improve efficiency and accountability in future projects.

I’ve worked with the Galveston County Consolidated Drainage District on long-term storm planning. Planning for 24-hour events is inadequate— our community has faced multiday storms like [hurricanes] Allison and Harvey. Friendswood must adopt improved stormwater management criteria to reduce future risks and enhance resilience against prolonged weather events.

Transportation

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

Upcoming projects

Pearland

MCHARD RD.

1 Hughes Road expansion Project: widening the two-lane road to four lanes from Pearland Parkway to Pearland’s city limits Update: The city is currently looking for a design consultant as of the first quarter of 2025. It’s also been combined with work at the intersection of Pearland Parkway and Barry Rose Road. • Timeline: Design began in 2023 and construction is anticipated to start in April 2026. It will take around two years to complete. • Cost: $12.2M • Funding sources: city bonds and unspecified sources 2 Mykawa Road widening Project: This will involve widening the road from McHard Road to West Orange Street. Additions include storm sewers, street lights, detention and a 10-foot shared use path, among other upgrades. Update: The city will need additional property for the project. Currently, a consultant is working toward completing 90% of the design. • Timeline: Design began in 2018. Construction is expected to start in early 2027 and take two years to complete. • Cost: $21.4M • Funding sources: city bonds, Houston-Galveston Area

HUGHES RANCH RD.

SMITH RANCH RD

521

E ORANGE ST.

W. BROA D W A

518

WALNUT ST.

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

288

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

Council, or H-GAC

35 around a year. • Cost: $13.7M • Funding sources: H-GAC, city of Pearland 4 Bailey Road expansion Project: involves expanding the two-lane roadway to four lanes from Veterans Drive to Main Street Update: Construction began in 2023 and is progressing. • Timeline: expected to wrap up in April 2026 • Cost: $18.5M • Funding source: city bonds

2351

Ongoing projects

6 3 Smith Ranch Road expansion Project: road widening from two-lane road to four lanes from Hughes Ranch Road to Broadway Street Update: The project has since begun construction as of the first quarter of 2025. • Timeline: Construction began in January and will take MORRIS AVE.

Manvel

Development

Events

BY RACHEL LELAND & JAMES T. NORMAN

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Pearland officials table rezoning change After weeks of discussion and numerous resi- dential comments, a developer withdrew a request to rezone around 12 acres of land for a townhome project totaling nearly 100 lots. City officials confirmed the update on April 7 after Pearland City Council on March 24 did not hold a vote on the rezoning. Officials confirmed the developer is adjusting their proposal and could come back in front of City Council at a later date. The backstory The item is a request from Katy-based developer META Planning and Design to rezone 11.8 acres located north of McHard Road and west of Old Alvin Road from general commercial to planned development for a 96-lot townhome development. After tabling the item March 10, City Council did not hold a vote on the item at its March 24 meeting.

Friendswood could see more housing Friendswood City Council took a key step in establishing a development agreement that could see around 44 single-family homes built and Friendswood Parkway extended on the west side of town. The gist The project, Falling Leaf Ranch, covers roughly 117 acres of land, city documents show. If approved at a future meeting, the agree- ment will involve creating a Public Improve- ment District to the tune of $16 million for upgrades in the area, documents show. Next steps Before the agreement and PID become official, a public hearing must be held, which was held after press time April 7.

Autism Awareness Festival & Resources Fair Attendees are encouraged to wear blue to this festival at Independence Park in Pearland to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day.

Proposed townhome site

April

Easter Eggstravaganza The Friendswood Methodist Church will host this event, which features an egg hunt, lunch and kite flying. • April 19, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. • Free (admission) • 110 N. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • https://friendswoodmethodist.org Boots & Brews Line Dancing & Two Steppin’ This event at Rob Ray’s Taproom will feature line dancing and two stepping lessons, and a night of music and dancing.

• April 27, 1-4 p.m. • Free (admission)

• 3449 Pearland Parkway, Pearland • www.autismmomsofhouston.org

MCHARD DR.

May

Concerts in the Park series Every Friday in May, the city of Pearland will invite residents to Southdown Park for tunes from a live band. • May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 7-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • 2150 Countryplace Parkway, Pearland • www.parks.pearlandtx.gov Mary Queen Spring Festival This family-friendly festival at the Mary Queen Catholic Church will feature a plant booth, bake sale, games and rides, music and live auctions, as well as food. • May 4, 11 a.m. • Free (admission) • 606 Cedarwood Drive, Friendswood • www.maryqueencatholicchurch.org/parish-festival

Diving in deeper Several residents have either written or spoken in opposition of the project dating back to Febru- ary. The Pearland Planning and Zoning Commis- sion voted 0-6 against recommending the proposal when it met Feb. 17, city staff said. Pearland resident Justin Graef said at City Council’s March 24 meeting he was concerned about privacy. “I just cannot handle the idea of walking out my back door and looking up and having at least three townhomes looking straight down into my backyard, into my back windows,” Graef said.

• April 19, 7 p.m. • Free (admission)

Youth Fishing Derby Over 600 pounds of adult catfish will be stocked in the Centennial Park Pond for kids who are 16 years and younger to catch. Awards will be presented for largest fish caught in three age categories, smallest fish caught and most fish caught. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing supplies and no fishing license is required. • May 3, 8-10 a.m. • Free (admission) • 2200 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • www.ci.friendswood.tx.us

• 2503 Covey Lane, Pearland • www.robraystaproom.com

Pearland Grand Arts & Eats This spring market celebrates local artists and makers, and takes place in the Old Townsite district.

• April 26, 10 a.m. • Free (admission)

• 2314 N. Grand Blvd., Pearland • www.eventeny.com/events/ pearlandgrandartseats-18166

SHADOW CREEK 11023 Shadow Creek Pkwy (281) 977-1027

PEARLAND 10555 Pearland Pkwy (713) 987-9205

ALMEDA 11130 Gulf Fwy (713) 910-3941

FRIENDSWOOD 3126 FM 528 (281) 648-5473

Business

BY ASIA ARMOUR

Jenny Bui has honed her skills over nearly four decades of professional baking.

Jenny Bui (right) started her business to support her family. Her daughter, Nam Din, followed in her foot steps and opened her own tea shop in the same parking lot as Jenny’s Bakery in Friendswood.

PHOTOS BY ASIA ARMOURCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Jenny’s Bakery brings generations together with cake

Bui has grown to love making macarons since opening Jenny’s Bakery.

For her 16th birthday, Jenny Bui wanted to make her own birthday cake. Though she ended up burning the cake and feeding it to her dog, her passion for baking never wavered. Her ambition led to the opening of Jenny’s Bakery. What’s special about it? For 15 years, Bui worked at a catering and baking company to help provide for her four children, she said. In June 2004, she opened her rst bakery in Nassau Bay. Repetition and consistency have made Bui a master at her craft, her daughter Nam Din said. Bui said this is what has kept her in business and allowed her to open the second bakery in Friend- swood in April 2019.

From the oven Jenny’s Bakery is known for its handcrafted and customized tiered cakes. “If the customer wants something, they just show me a picture and I can do it,” Bui said. A family aair Bui makes all kinds of cakes for special occa- sions. Because of this, she has gotten to know her customers more personally and through their lineage, she said. “It allows her to be in the community, but to stay within the families, also,” Din said. “So she gets to know all generations of each family that comes back to us.”

Nassau Bay

POINT LOOKOUT DR.

528

Friendswood

A 124 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood B 18051 Point Lookout Drive, Houston www.jennysbakery.com

Experienced Home Care You Can Trust…

You and your family deserve the best home care. From a few hours a week to 24/7 care, we tailor a personalized care plan to fit your lifestyle.

pearlandhomecare.com (281) 557-4357

• Companion care • Light housekeeping

• Memory care

• Errands, shopping • Hygiene & personal care • Cooking, meals & more

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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 18-19 Page 20 Page 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

communityimpact.com