New Caney - Porter Edition | January 2026

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New Caney Porter Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 9 FEB. 5MARCH 4, 2026

2026 Voter Guide

Brought to you by our gold sponsors: 2026 Health & Wellness Edition

Montgomery County Precinct 4 ocials have identied roughly $53 million worth of ood mitiga- tion projects that could benet approximately 440 homes upon completion over the next two decades. In December, Precinct 4 ocials wrapped up a study that evaluated 43 locations in need of drainage improvements throughout East Mont- gomery County. Of the evaluated locations, 15 were selected as projects that could qualify for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Flood Mitigation Assistance program, including 10 in the New Caney and Porter area. “Drainage is especially important in East Montgomery County because the area is essen- tially a bowl between the west and east forks of the San Jacinto River,” said Kennedy Williams, a community outreach staer with Precinct 4 Com- missioner Matt Gray’s Oce. “No one wants to have their home ooded, and Commissioner Gray is committed to continuing to improve drainage through East [Montgomery] County.” Per county ocials, the plan will establish a long-term strategy for ood mitigation in Precinct 4, identify specic project areas for future grant funding and implement as part of Precinct 4’s 20-year drainage plan. Montgomery County ocials unveil Precinct 4 Flood Mitigation Grant Plan BY HANNAH BROL Delivering drainage

Number of structures beneted

New Caney

Golden Trails 17

ROMAN FOREST BLVD.

1485

GENE CAMPBELL RD. GENE

Woodway Forest 18

1314

GRAND PKWY.

99 TOLL

494

Oakley 13

Shadowland Retreat 13

W. HERITAGE OAKS DR.

SORTERS RD.

Summer Hills 17

Heritage Oaks 91

SUMMER HILLS BLVD.

FORD RD.

Oak Lane Acres 12

EAST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

NEEDHAM RD.

Timberlane Acres (Section 07) 40

River Club Estates 9

Virginia Estates 44

KINGWOOD DR.

SORTERS MCCLELLAN RD.

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

LAKE HOUSTON

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

NOTE: ONLY PROJECTS LOCATED WITHIN NEW CANEY AND PORTER ARE INCLUDED ON THIS MAP.

SOURCES: MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRECINCT 4, CASCADE CIVIL SERVICESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Also in this issue

Impacts: Page 6 Get a sneak peak at WeeKare Pediatrics in New Caney

Government: Page 9 Learn more about Entergy’s expansion plans in East Montgomery County

CONTINUED ON 11

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Raul Tamarez Torres 281-354-5700

22498 Community Dr. New Caney

NEW CANEY - PORTER EDITION

Impacts

242

been delayed, a spokesperson for the center’s developer, The Signorelli Co., confirmed Dec. 22. The Mediterranean restaurant was originally expected to open this fall, and will serve fire-grilled skewers, wraps and bowls. • Opening date TBD • 21856 Market Place Drive, New Caney • www.thekebabshop.com 4 Casa Julia Tex Mex Originally expected to open in January, the Mont Belvieu-based Tex-Mex restaurant will offer quesadillas,

SPEED ST.

242

Roman Forest

New Caney

1485

OLD HOUSTON RD.

ROMAN FOREST BLVD.

loaded nachos, fajitas and enchiladas. • Opening in late February or early March

CONROE PORTER RD.

Porter

• 23706 Speed St., New Caney • www.casajuliatexmextx.com

1485

99 TOLL

1314

MCCLESKEY RD.

5 Wells Fargo Construction on the new branch of this bank within Valley Ranch Town Center kicked off in October, a spokesperson for The Signorelli Co. confirmed Dec. 22. • Opening in May • 21728 Hwy. 59, New Caney • www.wellsfargo.com 6 McCoy’s Building Supply Construction is underway on this store, which sells building materials for residential and agricultural projects; tractor, trailer and auto supplies; farm, ranch and animal supplies; and work wear and safety gear. • Opening late this spring • 21989 Hwy. 242, New Caney • www.mccoys.com 7 Territory at Porter The 342-unit apartment complex will feature a fitness center, a resort-style pool, a dog park, a clubhouse and a pickleball court.

VALLEY RANCH PKWY.

L E O N A R D

494

99 TOLL

MARKET PLACE DR.

10 14 3

VALLEY RANCH PKWY.

1314

99 TOLL

VALLEY RANCH BLVD.

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

9 12

494

FORD RD.

OWENS RD.

OLD SORTERS RD.

MONTGOMERY PINES RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

2 Arbor Rose at Porter Construction is now complete on this 276-unit apartment complex featuring a dog park, a gym, pickleball facilities and a putting green. • Opened in mid-November • 22344 Montgomery Pines Road, Porter • www.arborroseatporter.com

Now open

1 WeeKare Pediatrics Located in the Caney Crossing shopping center, the practice offers medical services for children including sports physicals, vision and hearing screenings, urinalysis, immunizations and sterile ear piercings. • Opened Jan. 6 • 20470 FM 1485, Ste. B, New Caney • www.weekare.net

• Opening Sept. 22, 2027 • 21385 FM 1314, Porter • www.dhananipeg.com/residential

8 Fuel Maxx Construction began in the third or fourth quarter of 2025 on this gas station and convenience store, which will feature a beer vault, Taco Corner, Coffee Maxx Station and a Maxx Washateria. A 9,900-square-foot

Coming soon

3 The Kebab Shop The opening of the Valley Ranch Town Center eatery has

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20651 FM 1485 NEW CANEY, TX 77357

24247 FM1314 SUITE B, PORTER, TX 77365

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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

retail building with three spaces will also be leased out. • Opening in the first or second quarter of this year • 23980 FM 1314, Stes. 100-300, Porter • No website or phone number as of press time

In the news

Relocations

10 Tesla Test driving of Tesla vehicles will now be offered from the company’s electric charging stations in Valley Ranch Town Center. The test drives are offered in a self-serve capacity and can be booked online. • 22118 Market Place Drive, New Caney • www.tesla.com/drive 11 A.V. ‘Bull’ Sallas Park The rodeo arena has reopened to livestock, officials with Montgomery County Precinct 4 announced Jan. 12. The arena had been closed since Nov. 19, when officials announced its temporary closure due to a statewide outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1. The rodeo arena offers open riding hours from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday- Wednesday. • 21675-B McCleskey Road, New Caney • www.mctxpct4.org 12 Tractor Supply Co. In mid-February, the store will undergo a remodel to expand the store’s sales floor for more products and space between departments. The store will remain open during the remodel with work largely taking place overnight and wrapping up by April.

Relocations

9 SkillZone Game Room The business offers snacks, drinks and music as well as a variety of entertainment for customers, including digital skill games, free digital sweepstakes games and TVs to watch sports. The business was previously called “Space City Games” and was located at 23874 Loop 494, Porter. • Relocated in September • 23741 Hwy. 59, Ste. 27, Porter • www.facebook.com/skillzonegameroom

15 The Pop Stop The dirty soda and coffee shop has opened at a new location in Roman Forest. Co-owned by Modisty Pruett and Cara Gautreaux, the business launched in June, traveling around the area and offering pick-up orders in Tavola. The business incorporates a 1950s theme and offers lemonade and energy sodas in addition to specialty coffee drinks and dirty sodas. • Relocated Sept. 8 • 17643 Hwy. 59, Roman Forest • https://thepopstopck.square.site 16 Chipotle The Valley Ranch Town Center eatery marked five years since opening on Dec. 9. The restaurant serves build-your-own Mexican-inspired cuisine, such as bowls, burritos and quesadillas. • 21360 Hwy. 59, Ste. 100, New Caney • www.chipotle.com Bubbles & Beyond The mobile laundry service, celebrated its first anniversary Jan. 1. The company offers wash and fold services with pickup and delivery options in New Caney and Porter. • www.bubblesandbeyondllc.com

Expansions

A1 Academics K-12 Tutoring Service Founder Allayah Beamon said the mobile tutoring center expanded to New Caney on Jan. 10. The business offers tutoring services in a variety of subjects for children in kindergarten through 12th grade with individual in-person

and virtual sessions. • Expanded Jan. 10 • www.a1academics.com

• 23741 Hwy. 59, Porter • www.tractorsupply.com

PetSet The Houston nonprofit debuted a mobile spay-and- neuter clinic Dec. 18, expanding its ability to bring preventative veterinary care directly to Houston neighborhoods with limited access to services. The mobile clinic began full operations in January. • www.pet-set.org Harmony Public Schools The Texas charter system launched a new virtual learning platform Jan. 5 that allows students across the state to take high school courses online. Interested families can enroll online, and spring courses began Jan. 12. • www.harmonytx.org

13 The Atrium Center New art was installed at The Atrium Center in January with an event planned for March 10 to debut the works to the public. The art was created by local artists and includes paintings and photographs that were hung by David Hannahs, owner of Webb Gallery Inc. in Atascocita. • 21575 Hwy. 59, Ste. 205, New Caney • www.atriumcentertx.com 14 Unique Kids Pediatric Dentistry In January, the practice celebrated five years since opening in Valley Ranch Town Center, boasting “extensive, gentle and comfortable” dental services. • 22118 Market Place Drive, Ste. 500, New Caney • www.uniquekidsdentistry.com

NEW CANEY - PORTER EDITION

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Government

BY WESLEY GARDNER & NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Entergy opens Millbend Substation to increase capacity

Countywide mobility study moves forward Montgomery County commissioners took a step toward a new countywide transportation roadmap Jan. 15, discussing a mobility study they said will be the rst to outline a 10-year plan for the entire county. The big picture County Judge Mark Keough said the eort began with obtaining federal funds in October 2024, followed by a formal request in December 2024. The project was then added to the Houston-Galveston Area Council’s Unied Planning Work Program when it was approved last April. Keough said the county issued a request for proposals in September and awarded the contract to Freese and Nichols in December. The project kicked o in January and will take 12 to 18 months to complete.

East Montgomery County leaders joined representatives from Entergy Texas for a Jan. 7 ribbon-cutting for the energy company’s new Millbend substation and transmission line project. The details The new substation is part of Entergy’s Southeast Texas Energy Plan, which focuses on investing in energy infrastructure ahead of population growth, according to a Jan. 8 news release. Sean Meredith, vice president of capital projects for Entergy, said the substation was built to help support areas of Montgomery County experiencing growth, including New Caney and Porter. “The station is here to support that [growth], and it’s going to do a great job at that,” Meredith said. A closer look Meredith said the project consists of several electrical towers and roughly 6 miles of transmis- sion lines. He noted the towers have been built to

Sean Meredith, vice president of capital projects for Entergy, spoke at the Jan. 7 ribbon cutting ceremony.

WESLEY GARDNERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

withstand extreme weather events. “If a hurricane blows through, there may not be roofs on building, but those [towers] are going to be standing,” Meredith said. Additionally, Stuart Barrett, vice president of customer service for Entergy, said the new substa- tion includes modern equipment that can automat- ically shift power to other lines if there’s a problem, which he said would help shorten outage times. Meredith said ocials will be able to expand the new towers and transmission lines in the future.

NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION

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From the cover

Delivering drainage

BY HANNAH BROL

More than half of the project funding would go toward storm sewer and trunkline improvements. Project breakdown

Zooming in

The big picture

Per Precinct 4 officials, to qualify for the FMA program, proposed projects: • Have a benefit-cost ratio greater than 1.0, mean- ing the project’s benefits outweigh its costs • Had structures with repetitive flood loss, as identified through previous FEMA claims • Are not located within a floodplain • Are precinct-identified locations with drainage issues Proposed projects identified for grant funding include channel and ditch improvements, storm sewer and trunkline improvements, as well as new channel or detention features. Per the study, which was completed by Cascade Civil Services, the project with the highest benefit- cost ratio in Precinct 4 is in Shadowland Retreat and would benefit 13 structures. The $3.69 million project would add a 36-inch storm sewer and a

The FMA program is a competitive grant program that provides funding to communities for projects to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to structures insured by the National Flood Insurance Program, per FEMA’s website. In Texas, funding is administered by the Texas Water Development Board. Precinct 4 officials said they selected the FMA program because it is the largest recurring flood mitigation grant program. The precinct has also applied for other drainage improvement grants through other grant programs. “We are hopeful,” Williams said. “Commissioner Gray has a strong track record in securing grants, with over $98 million in federal and state funding brought into the precinct in his first term. If all projects are awarded, it would bring $53 million of our federal tax dollars back to Precinct 4, reducing flood risk for 440 homes.”

$79.57M Total benefits:

Total cost: $53M

Homes benefited

Funding source

Cost

Channel and ditch improvements

$30M 80

Storm sewer and trunkline improvements

$14M

300

New channel or detention features

$9M

SOURCES: MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRECINCT 4, CASCADE CIVIL SERVICES/COMMUNITY IMPACT

new 4-foot by 2-foot culvert to improve drainage and reduce flood depth by up to 2 feet.

Between fiscal years 2015-22, the TWDB awarded approximately $526.1 million in total funding to communities statewide through the FMA program. Statewide grant funding

Also of note

handled by the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management. “The goal is for the whole project—including the [East Montgomery County] portion—to advertise for construction by the end of 2026, after the [environmental analysis] is completed and approved,” Williams said. Additionally, Precinct 4 officials said they are continuing to use $9.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act grant funding toward the mitigation and cleaning up of outfalls and drainage channels throughout East Montgomery County.

In addition to the Precinct 4 Flood Mitigation Grant Plan, the Texas General Land Office Desnagging Project is expected to kick off in Montgomery County this year and will span 136 miles of stream within the San Jacinto Watershed. Approximately $36.4 million of the total $60.4 million project will be spent in East Montgomery County, per Precinct 4 officials. Precinct 4 officials noted the project is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Mitigation program, and is being

$451.2M awarded in federal funding

$74.9M awarded in local funding

129,400 structures benefited

SOURCES: FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY, TEXAS WATER DEVELOPMENT BOARD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Next steps

Timeline

2024

2025

2026

8 9 10 11 12

9 11

10 12

Data is collected and flood risk assessment is conducted. Projects are identified and models are analyzed. Plan is developed and reported. Public outreach is completed and benefit- cost ratio is evaluated. Study report is finalized.

Precinct 4 officials said the first project will be submitted once the study report has been approved and FEMA announces the next Notice of Funding Opportunity, which typically takes place in the fall. Project submission order will be reevaluated annually and will be based on the benefit-cost ratio score as well as the timing of other projects. Williams noted it typically takes about one year or longer from application to award for this type of grant. Project construction would take place over the next 20 years as funding is available.

Fall 2026: Application period opens and first project is submitted.

SOURCES: MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRECINCT 4, CASCADE CIVIL SERVICES/COMMUNITY IMPACT

NEW CANEY - PORTER EDITION

Transportation

BY EMILY LINCKE

Upcoming projects

Completed projects

242

OLD HOUSTON RD.

1 Old Houston Road Segment 1 widening Project: The two-lane asphalt road will be widened— from Hwy. 242 to 0.8 miles south of Hwy. 242—to a four-lane asphalt section with a continuous turn lane. The project will also include traffic signal modifications at Hwy. 242 and a bridge replacement. Update: The last stages of design are underway, and construction is expected to be advertised this spring, per Montgomery County Precinct 4 officials. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $2 million (engineering only) • Funding sources: Montgomery County 2025 Road Project: Improvements will be made to Galaxy Boulevard in New Caney from north of where the roadway intersects with the Grand Parkway to the intersection with FM 1485. The exact project map is still being determined. Update: Early this year, preliminary engineering services are expected to begin, Precinct 4 officials said. • Timeline: early this year-TBD (design services) • Cost: TBD • Funding sources: Montgomery County 2025 Road Bond, Precinct 4 Commissioner’s Office Bond, Precinct 4 Commissioner’s Office Galaxy Boulevard improvements

2 Lodge Road upgrades Project: The railroad crossing roadway between Loop 494 and Lodge Road was renovated in New Caney, according to Precinct 4’s website. Precinct 4 leaders worked with the Texas Department of Transportation and the Union Pacific Railroad for permitting. Update: This project was completed Nov. 17, a spokesperson for Precinct 4 confirmed via email Jan. 14. • Timeline: November 2024 (permitting)-Nov. 17 (construction) • Cost: $292,000 • Funding sources: Montgomery County 2025 Road Bond, Precinct 4 Commissioner’s Office, Ash Grove Cement 3 Valley Ranch Parkway, FM 1314 turn lane Project: The median on the north side of the intersection of Valley Ranch Parkway and FM 1314 was removed, and a left-turn lane for motorists traveling southbound from Valley Ranch Parkway onto FM 1314 was constructed. Update: The project was completed in November, Precinct 4 officials confirmed. • Timeline: started and completed in November • Cost: $99,000 • Funding sources: Montgomery County 2025 Road Bond, Precinct 4 Commissioner’s Office

ROMAN FOREST BLVD.

242

PAYNE RD.

1485

JOHNSON RD.

1485

VALLEY RANCH PKWY.

LODGE RD.

99 TOLL

Porter

SORTERS RD.

LAKE HOUSTON WILDERNESS PARK

494

1314

FORD RD.

OLD SORTERS RD.

SORTERS MCCLELLAN RD.

N O R T H P A R

W. LAKE HOUSTON PKWY.

KINGWOOD DR.

WOODLAND HILLS DR.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

Kingwood

LAKE HOUSTON

1960

N. HOUSTON AVE.

F I RST ST.

1960

Humble

TIMBER FOREST DR.

WILL CLAYTON PKWY.

Atascocita

MADERA RUN PKWY.

Events

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR & HANNAH BROL

11985 N. Grand Parkway E., New Caney • www.newcaneymarket.com

February

Strawberry Festival Kickoff strawberry season at this festival featuring local vendors, live music, food trucks and contests. • Feb. 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Valley Ranch Round Up Valley Ranch invites families for a Western-themed event featuring live music, a Western photo-op, a petting zoo, face painting, a balloon twister and a mechanical bull.

• Free (admission) • Bull Sallas Park, 21675 McCleskey Road, New Caney • www.montgomerycountymarketdays.com

• Feb. 20, 3-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • 11985 N. Grand Parkway E., New Caney • www.shopvrtc.com

Commissioner Gray’s State of the Precinct Montgomery County Precinct 4 Commissioner Matt Gray will provide residents with an update on current and future projects.

Date Night Bingo Support Splendora Project Graduation while enjoying an evening of games, fun and prizes. • Feb. 21, 6 p.m. • $50 (individual ticket), $350 (table of eight) • Bull Sallas Park, 21675 McCleskey Road, New Caney • www.splendoraprojectgrad.com EMCID’s Officers of the Year Ceremony Former Navy SEAL Will Chesney will be the featured speaker at the East Montgomery County Improvement District’s Police Appreciation Dinner. • Feb. 23, 6-9 p.m. • $25 (individual ticket), $200 (table of eight) • The Nathaniel Center, 804 Russell Palmer, Kingwood • www.emctx.com

Mardi Gras Casino Night Extravaganza The Greater East Montgomery County Chamber’s annual Casino Night Extravaganza features dinner; a cash bar with drinks and complimentary tea, water and coffee; and casino games such as blackjack and poker. • Feb. 20, 6-11 p.m. • $150 (individual admission) • The Atrium Center, 21575 Hwy 59 N., New Caney • www.gemcchamber.com

• Feb. 10, 6 p.m. • Free (admission)

• Randall Reed Stadium Community Room, 21360 Valley Ranch Parkway, New Caney • www.mctxpct4.org

New Caney Community Market Shop from over 60 local vendors at this market held on the first and third Sunday of the month. • Feb. 15 and March 1, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • Valley Ranch Town Center,

PORTER 23611 Hwy 59 (281) 354-0733

HUMBLE 19322 US-59 (281) 540-7202

KINGWOOD 1420 Kingwood Dr (281) 359-7115

Election

BY WESLEY GARDNER

Voter Guide

2026

Dates to know

Where to vote

Feb. 17: First day of early voting Feb. 20: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Feb. 27: Last day of early voting March 3: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or March 4 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Montgomery County residents can cast their ballots at any polling location during early voting; however, election day locations are by precinct. Visit https://elections.mctx.org for polling locations.

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

KEY: *Incumbent

U.S. House District 2, Republican Primary

Steve Toth Occupation & experience: Small business owner, state representative,

Dan Crenshaw* Occupation & experience: Former Navy SEAL and congressman www.crenshawfor congress.com

N. Lee Plumb Occupation & experience:

Martin Etwop Occupation & experience: Constitutional attorney, non-profit org board member, public interest litigator, former Tesla employee, small business owner www.martinetwop.com

Principle manager at Amazon (head of AI Enablement for Global Compensation) www.nleeplumb.com

previously endorsed by President Trump www.stevetothforcongress.com

What would your top priorities be if elected?

President Trump has done a great job securing our border and putting America First. Now, we must codify those changes into law so a future administration cannot easily reverse them. Additionally, we should ban stock trading for members of Congress. They should not get rich off privileged information.

My top priorities remain defeating the drug cartels at our southern border, leading the world with U.S. energy dominance, investing in critical flood mitigation projects for TX-2, and supporting President Trump’s policy agenda.

My top priority is protecting the American middle class. I will introduce legislation to reclaim our labor market by restoring accountability to visa programs, strengthening data and IP protections, and slowing job offshoring and AI-driven displacement.

Secure the border, restore fiscal responsibility and cut national debt, defend religious liberty and Second Amendment rights, reclaim Congress’s constitutional authority from the executive branch, and defend and protect the unborn.

How will you ensure your district is prepared for extreme weather and flooding?

Recently, a Houston City Council member informed me of a new development that would increase the flood risk to Kingwood and South Montgomery County. We immediately began working with state and county officials to shut down the project. I will always listen and take swift action to serve my constituents.

When I ran after Hurricane Harvey, flood mitigation became—and remains—a top priority. I have secured over $200 million to dredge the San Jacinto River, reinforce Lake Houston Dam, build detention ponds, improve drainage, upgrade disaster communications, replace Montgomery County’s emergency signal towers, among other federally funded projects.

I will work closely with local officials to identify gaps in emergency preparedness and fight for funding where infrastructure or planning falls short. I will also hold private utilities and corporations accountable when neglect of critical systems puts public safety at risk.

I will fight in Washington to bring federal resources home for flood mitigation and grid hardening against freezes and heatwaves, while working with state and federal partners to hold power companies and housing developers accountable for reliable infrastructure and cutting waste to prioritize real preparedness.

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.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN & COLE GEE

KEY: *Incumbent

Montgomery County Judge, Republican Primary

What should the county’s budgeting priorities be?

Why are you running for office?

To keep Montgomery County strong, safe and free. I’ve delivered historic 20% tax cuts, fully funded law enforcement and secured our elections. I’m a battle- tested conservative who protects your wallet and your values. I delivered on my contract with you, and I’m ready to do it again.

Budgeting must prioritize public safety and infrastructure. I will continue to fully fund our law enforcement to maintain law and order and invest in essential capital improvements like our jail, courthouse and roads. We will deliver these necessities efficiently, continuing to ensure tax dollars are focused on needs, not waste.

Mark Keough* Occupation & experience: Montgomery County judge 2019-present, state representative 2014-2018, dealer principle ... www.markkeough.org Wayne Mack Occupation & experience: Almost forty years of public service, law enforcement experience, executive leadership, community based ... www.waynemack.org

I’m running to bring disciplined, servant leadership to county government. Families are facing rising costs and they deserve leadership that respects taxpayers, demands accountability and ensures county government serves people, not itself, by focusing on ROI results, stewardship, and true servant leadership matters.

Budgets should prioritize public safety, core services and infrastructure while exercising restraint. When property values rise, increasing revenues, government should not automatically grow. Families pay bills, not percentages, and the county government must respect that reality.

Texas House District 3, Democratic Primary

How will you ensure your constituents are able to receive the appropriate aid after natural disasters?

If elected, what will your priorities be regarding property taxes and housing affordability?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

James Alvarado Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

My priority is restoring fairness and stability in property taxes by calling for responsible investigations when inconsistencies arise. With many relief proposals already at the table, I will continue to evaluate what exists, listen to needs, and advocate for the most reasonable ...

Resilience is the goal, and waiting until disaster strikes is too late. I will prioritize preparedness activities and advocate for the emergency supplies and education our community needs. I will also push for generator support for vulnerable residents so they can stay safe, powered, and connected during disasters.

Nicole King Occupation & experience: Chief project officer, government advisory support, community relations, public safety/investigations, emergency ... www.nicolekingforall.com

Texas House District 3, Republican Primary Cecil Bell, Jr.* Occupation & experience: contractor (water & wastewater construction), self-employed since 1983, providing jobs and critical infrastructure to ... www.cecilbelljr.org Kristen Plaisance Occupation & experience: retired real estate and commercial photographer, constitutional scholar, election security -auditor/activists, won ... www.kristenplaisance.com

If elected, what will your priorities be regarding property taxes and housing affordability? Pass appraisal reform; pass 5% cap on all real property; shot clock for permitting construction of new lots; [and] enhance private property rights.

How will you ensure your constituents are able to receive the appropriate aid after natural disasters? As state representative, my role in disaster response/ recovery includes working with MoCo officials to ensure damage value assessment is compiled and submitted to state and federal as required to meet disaster declaration(s) requirements. When state and/ or federal disaster resources are mobilized, my role is to coordinate between ...

I will fight to eliminate property taxes completely while still ensuring that local governments and schools are properly funded. I have been and will continue to put in countless hours researching the best plans to do this. Florida is once again leading the way and I will be watching what ...

It is a representative’s job to be your ally in government to defend your rights and to help you fix issues that are within the government’s authority. This is certainly true for a natural disaster. It will be my job to listen to the people so they can tell me ...

NEW CANEY - PORTER EDITION

BY HANNAH BROL Health & wellness Health & Wellness Edition 2026

Community Impact ’s annual Health & Wellness Guide highlights ways residents can support their physical, mental and emotional well-being through resources and activities in their local community. In this edition, readers will nd coverage focused on local health providers, tness opportunities, outdoor spaces and wellness services that contribute to healthier lifestyles. At its core, this guide reects the idea that health and wellness are deeply connected to where we live and how we engage with our surroundings.

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Learn about a county mental health facility expansion (Page 17)

Check out Porter’s new pickleball hub (Page 19)

For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!

Programming breathes new life into East Montgomery County Senior Center Since 2024, the East Montgomery County Senior Center has evolved with new programming and will continue to do so in the coming year, said Kim Brode, a community outreach staer and scheduler for Montgomery County Precinct 4. What’s new This year, Brode said the center will add a The impact Regular physical activity for adults age 65 has a slate of health benets.

fall prevention and the importance of social connec- tion, and hosted its rst senior prom in June. “It keeps our seniors active, connected and engaged,” Brode said. “This center ensures our seniors have a welcoming place to gather, learn and thrive in our community.” Check it out The center continues to host regular bingo and craft days. Meals on Wheels also serves hot lunch to residents of Montgomery County age 60 and older Monday-Thursday at 11:30 a.m.

Short-term benets: • Improves sleep quality • Reduces anxiety • Lowers blood pressure Long-term benets: • Reduces the risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, and depression • Reduces the risk of developing heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes • Reduces the risk of developing eight types of cancer • Improves balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls • Improves bone health • Helps people live independently longer

monthly mental health class, a sourdough making class and chair volleyball. The center also plans to host speakers on senior pedestrian and driver safety. Additionally, the center will continue to hold programming introduced over the past two years, including line dancing and a walking club. Precinct 4 has also partnered with the Houston- Galveston Area Council to bring exercise and wellness classes to the center, as well as with Prairie View A&M University, which oers exercise and nutrition classes and hosts fraud bingo to educate seniors about scams. The center has also hosted speakers discussing

LIBERTY ST.

MCCLESKEY RD.

CROCKETT

PENNY ST.

PUNKINST.

21679 McCleskey Road, New Caney www.mctxpct4.org/emc-senior-center

SOURCE: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

100-bed addition planned at Montgomery County Mental Health Treatment facility

Montgomery County Mental Health Treatment Facility

MIKE MEADOR PKWY.

336

Construction is underway—and officials expect it to wrap in December—on an expansion at the Montgomery County Mental Health Treatment Facility in Conroe that will add 100 inpatient beds and increase the capacity for competency- restoration treatment. The project is funded from part of a $50 million grant awarded in 2023 courtesy of the Texas Health and Human Services Mental Health Inpa- tient Facility Grant Program. The overview Officials and community leaders broke ground Aug. 18 on an addition that will expand the facility, which currently operates 100 beds, to 200 beds, according to Recovery Solutions, the behavioral health provider that manages the hospital through a public-private partnership

with the county and the state. The expansion project will focus on serving justice-involved individuals a court has found incompetent to stand trial, Recovery Solutions Hospital Administrator Jeff Rone said. The project’s contractor, Satterfield & Pon- tikes Construction, describes the work as a 51,085-square-foot expansion designed to accom- modate the new beds. The firm also said the added space will expand the hospital’s reach from about 3,300 patients from 79 counties to 4,300 patients from 140 counties. What’s next After the groundbreaking, Montgomery County Commissioners Court on Nov. 18 approved $117,500 for commissioning services, which is the process of testing and verifying new or

Project: The expansion will add 100 beds to the facility Timeline: December (completion); February 2027 (patient phase-in begins) Funding source: Texas Health and Human Services Mental Health Inpatient Facility Grant Program

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

renovated building systems, with Smith Seckman Reid Inc. Services. Rone said the expansion should help people “get a hospital bed quicker than they have in the past.”

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NEW CANEY - PORTER EDITION

New year, renewed focus on your health.

As your resource for senior-focused healthcare, Kelsey-Seybold for Seniors can help ensure you receive quality, proactive, coordinated care that understands your changing health needs. There are several ways to learn about your Medicare coverage options, you can review resources from Medicare, contact Medicare Advantage health plans directly, or speak with a licensed insurance agent.* 713-442-8526 (TTY: 711) Choose your Kelsey-Seybold provider today! Calling this number will connect you to a licensed insurance agent.

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*There are several ways to learn about your Medicare coverage options. You can review the CMS website at medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227/TTY call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week. You can contact Medicare Advantage health plans directly for information about the plans they offer. Another option is to speak with a licensed insurance agent. Kelsey-Seybold Clinic accepts patients with Medicare Advantage plans. Not all plans accepted. Call for details. © 2026 Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. All rights reserved. KSSCIJ_1085

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Health & wellness

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

What began as a plan for more warehouse space has transformed into a 30,000-square-foot hub of sport, social life and community in Porter. What’s special about it The Pickleball Zone was founded in November 2024 by a group of likeminded guys who met at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Kingwood. Co-owner Tony Bender said when he and his partners Tim Vogel and John Engelhardt pur- chased the land where The Pickleball Zone resides today, they intended to open a warehouse facility. However, after discussing their plans with friends, they realized the community lacked a space for pickleball. According to The USA Pickleball court location database, 2024 saw increased focus and growth on facility services with 4,000 new locations added nationwide. With community in mind, Bender and his busi- ness partners founded The Pickleball Zone, a pick- leball facility that oers an elevated experience for pickleball enthusiasts and locals alike. The facility features 10 indoor courts and 3,000 square feet of common space featuring a bar, TVs and leather couches. Ocials said the venue’s bar—Bar 365—is named for Porter’s ZIP code: 77365. The facility also oers golf simulators, pickleball classes and holds events such as birthday parties and community events. On Fridays, the facility alternates between karaoke and live music per- formed by local artists, and oers food provided by local restaurant Jesse’s Burgers. Up next, The Pickleball Zone plans to launch a corn hole series in February in collaboration with the Texas Cornhole Association, Bender said. What else? Although Bender said he did not play pickleball prior to opening The Pickleball Zone, he is now in love with the sport and the community aspect of it. “It’s such a community sport, you are so close to your competitors and your teammates, and you’re constantly rotating partners, so you get to meet a lot of people,” Bender said. With memberships ranging from $50-$239 per month, The Pickleball Zone also oers two free introductory classes on Mondays and Fridays. In addition, with over 10,000 visitors during its rst year serving Porter, Bender said there are endless networking opportunities and social The Pickleball Zone brings community space to Porter

The Pickleball Zone supports Addi’s Faith Foundation, a nonprot founded by co-owner Tony Bender and his wife.

PHOTOS COURTESY THE PICKLEBALL ZONE

Bar 365 at The Pickleball Zone oers an elevated bar with specialty cocktails.

At The Pickleball Zone, customers can rent a court for $40 per hour.

connections at the venue. While the facility supports several local organi- zations, The Pickleball Zone focuses on supporting Addi’s Faith Foundation, a cancer research non- prot founded by Bender and his wife, and named after Bender’s late daughter. “My wife and I are very involved in the commu- nity because we lost our daughter 18 years ago to a brain tumor, and we have a foundation that helps provide nancial support for families that have a child with cancer,” Bender said. So far, Bender said The Pickleball Zone has raised $1 million over the last 12 months and donated $3 million to MD Anderson cancer

494

22056 W. Ford Road, Porter www.thepbz.com

research. In addition, the facility holds an annual pickleball tournament in July to raise money for Addi’s Faith Foundation.

NEW CANEY PORTER EDITION

*Offer valid only on contracts for dirt sale/to-be-built homes signed by February 28, 2026. To qualify, buyers must finalize and execute a purchase agreement within this specified timeframe. Eligibility for this offer requires the use of Stone Meadow Lending as the lender and Platinum Title Company for title services. All pricing, home features, design specifications, financing rates, and other details are subject to change without prior notice. The builder reserves the right to modify or withdraw this offer at any time. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Please consult a sales representative for complete details.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

Approximately 29 fewer homes sold across the two ZIP codes combined that make up Community Impact’s New Caney-Porter coverage area, data for December 2025 compared with December 2024 shows. Additionally, more than 75% of homes sold in December 2025 were in the $200,000-$399,999 price range. Residential market data

December 2024

December 2025

Homes sold by price point in December 2025

77357

77365

$800,000+

$600,000-$799,999

23 57

$400,000-$599,999

$200,000-$399,999

<$199,999

242

OLD HOUSTON RD.

Number of homes sold

Average days on market

77357

99 TOLL

-27.42%

+5.95%

+43.75%

+35.29%

1314

77365

Average home price in the last 6 months

77357

77365

77357

77365

77357 $271,956

Median home sales price

December

2024

2025

77365 $367,168

$263,559

$279,433

77357

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY DEBORAH ROSE REAL ESTATE, POWERED BY EXP 281-380-0332 • DEBORAHROSEREALTOR@GMAIL.COM HUMBLE ISD EDUCATION FOUNDATION DIRECTOR 2026 FIVE STAR LEGENDS

$295,100

$305,000

77365

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