Sugar Land - Missouri City Edition | October 2023

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Sugar Land Missouri City Edition VOLUME 10, ISSUE 14 OCT. 13NOV. 7, 2023

2023 Voter Guide

Fort Bend County calls $712.6M mobility bond

Ongoing construction on Hwy. 6 will add turn lanes in order to reduce trac congestion in the area. An upcoming Fort Bend County mobility bond would add a roundabout in the area to further tackle trac.

DANIEL WEEKSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

will hit 1 million in the next few years. “Our needs are much greater than they’ve ever been before,” said McCoy, who represents the central and southern Fort Bend County area. “In the past, the county had a position that all we do is maintain roadways, we don’t build new ones. That shifted over the last two decades.”

county’s history. The bond with a $712.6 million mobility proposition and a $153 million parks and facilities proposition will appear on ballots. Precinct 4 Commissioner Dexter McCoy said the bond’s historic size is reective of the county’s rapid growth. The U.S. Census Bureau’s annual Population Estimates Program data shows the county had a population of over 889,000 last year, with County Judge KP George projecting the county

BY DANIEL WEEKS

Sugar Land and Missouri City residents could see one of the largest county investments in local transportation projects, including the widening and reconstruction of major thoroughfares, should the county’s mobility bond pass Nov. 7. On Aug. 8, Fort Bend County commissioners voted to call the largest bond referendum in the

CONTINUED ON 22

Also in this issue

Impacts: New Stomp’s Burger Joint coming soon (Page 6)

Government: Cities pass tax rates, budgets (Page 8)

Education: Sugar Land 95 site plan revealed (Page 11)

Events: Honeyland Festival coming to Sugar Land (Page 25)

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AGES 65 & Older

OVER FROZEN DOLLAR AMOUNT

A Vote For

A Vote Against

Fort Bend ISD is the 6th largest district in Texas serving 80,000 students in grades pre-K-12. The district maintains 12 high schools, 15 middle schools, 51 elementary campuses and 5 specialty schools. According to state accountability scores from 2022, FBISD is performing at or above state and region area districts on all subjects, on every grade level. With over 12,000 employees, Fort Bend ISD is the largest employer in Fort Bend County. As enrollment and operating costs like salaries, supplies, and fuel continue to rise since 2019, funding for school operations has not kept pace. The per student allotment has not been increased since 2019, and inflation has been 14.4% since that time. Over the last two years, FBISD cut $40 million from its budget and adopted a balanced budget. However, even with these budget cuts, the district could not afford raises for teachers and staff. On August 21, 2023, the FBISD Board of Trustees called a new VATRE election to be placed on the November 7 ballot.

Total Tax Rate

$0.9892

$0.942

New Local Revenue

$22 Million

New State Net Revenue $13 Million

Total New Revenue

$35 Million

Total Annual Homeowner Impact

-$1,041 -$1,145

INCREASE PAY TO RECRUIT & RETAIN HIGH QUALITY TEACHERS AND STAFF

FUND STATE SAFETY MANDATE FOR ADDITIONAL SECURITY PERSONNEL

PROP A Funding Priorities INCREASE PAY TO RECRUIT & RETAIN HIGH QUALITY TEACHERS & STAFF

Early Voting October 23 - November 3 Election Day November 7 Connect fortbendisd.com/ VATRE

• Currently Fort Bend ISD is $3,000 below peer districts in teacher pay and has one of the lowest starting salaries for new teachers in the region . Prop A provides salary increases for all teachers and staff. • Due to a teacher shortage , nearly 200 teacher and campus positions went unfilled. To recruit and retain high quality teachers, 70% of generated funds from Prop A will go to increase teacher pay. • Student to teacher classroom ratios and class sizes can increase when there is a shortage of teachers or less funds in the instructional budget. FUND STATE SECURITY MANDATE • A new statewide mandate requires armed security at every campus , but the state did not provide sufficient funds for the cost of qualified armed security, an annual cost of $2.5M.

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. And our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Joe Edwards Melissa Enaje Leah Foreman Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Shaheryar Khan Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning James T. Norman Jessica Shorten Lizzy Spangler Graphic Designers Jatziri Garcia Chad Inmon Ellen Jackson Martha Risinger La’Toya Smith Jesus Verastegui Taylor White Ronald Winters Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Kasey Salisbury Account Executive Christina Goodwin Managing Editor Kelly Schafler Senior Art Production Manager Kaitlin Schmidt

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SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Impacts

W . B E L L F O R T B

Coming soon

99 TOLL

MASON RD.

SETTLERS WAY BLVD.

Missouri City

1092

4 Crazy Pita This Mediterranean fast-casual rotisserie and grill has chosen Sugar Land for its first Texas-based restaurant. Its menu features pita sandwiches with a variety of proteins, including lamb, wagyu beef, shrimp and chicken. Individual entrees, family value plates and catering will be available. • Opening Oct. 24 • 2587 Town Center Blvd. N., Sugar Land • www.crazypita.com

TOWN CENTER BLVD.

Sugar Land

SWEETWATER BLVD.

SIENNA PKWY.

K W Y

WATTS PLANTATION RD.

KITTY HOLLOW PARK

MCKEEVER RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

SIENNA PKWY.

townhomes has opened in Missouri City this summer. One-, two- and three-bedroom homes are available for rent and set up with stainless steel appliances, walk-in closets and in-unit washers and dryers. Other amenities include a resort-style swimming pool, fitness center and a clubhouse. • Opened in August • 4800 Watts Plantation Road, Missouri City • www.lenoxsiennaapts.com 3 San Jose Clinic Pharmacy To provide affordable medication to the uninsured, this nonprofit health care agency will open a Fort Bend area pharmacy at the Quadrangle Square in Rosenberg this fall. It will dispense a wide range of prescription drugs, medical supplies and over-the-counter medications at low or no cost to underserved communities in Fort Bend 6 WATTS PLANTATION RD. MCKEEVER RD.

County with limited access to care. • Ribbon-cutting Sept. 22 • 117 Lane Drive, Ste. 31, Rosenberg • www.sanjoseclinic.org

Now open

1 Smile Solutions A dental clinic recently opened in Richmond this September, led by general dentist Asha Patel. The clinic provides preventative and cosmetic dentistry for individuals and families. New patients can get either a free X-ray and exam, free artificial tooth, or free second opinion and exam. Smile Solutions accepts most dental insurance plans. • Opened Sept. 26 • 7963 W. Grand Parkway S., Ste. A, Richmond • www.smilesolutionsrichmond.com 2 Lenox Sienna A multifamily community comprising apartments and

Coming soon

5 Elite Endodontic Specialists This dental clinic leased 2,109 square feet of retail space at the Fort Bend Town Center II, located at the intersection of Hwy. 6 and Fort Bend Tollway. With a clinic already established in Sugar Land, Elite Endodontic will now offer more intensive dental surgeries, such as root canals, apicoectomies, cracked tooth repair and treatment for traumatic injuries in Missouri City. • Opening Q4 2024

With on-site x-rays, skilled providers, and orthopedic physicians on call, we can quickly determine if you have fracture, sprain or strain.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ASIA ARMOUR

In the news

Coming soon

6 Stomp’s Burger Joint This Bacliff-based fast casual restaurant will open another eatery in Missouri City’s Sienna Plantation community. The burger joint boasts top quality ingredients and patties made by hand. In addition to a host of specialty sandwiches, its menu features appetizers such as enchilada dip, Frito pie and fried mushrooms. Hot dogs, lighter entrees and a variety of desserts are also available. • Slated to open January 2024 • 4225 Sienna Parkway, Ste. 200, Missouri City • www.stompsburgerjoint.com

8 “Around The Clock” Sculpture On Sept. 27, Sugar Land Cultural Arts unveiled a sculpture at Fire Station 3. It was dedicated to first responders, who artist Peter Requiam called “the heart of every community.” The centerpiece displays a bold, red number three against a gold backdrop. 9 Liquorpedia A new spirit stop will come to Missouri City with a variety of wines, beers and mixers. Spirits such as whiskey, tequila, vodka and gin will be available here. • Opening in late October • 7022 Hwy. 6, Ste. 300, Missouri City 10 The Joint Chiropractic A news release from commercial real estate company NewQuest Properties said the clinic has leased a 1,400-square-foot space at the Fort Bend Town Center in Missouri City. The Joint’s licensed chiropractors promote ongoing wellness by improving spinal and joint function and aim to provide relief for ailments such as arthritis, scoliosis and migraines. • Opening winter 2023

It’s surrounded by 12 stylized homes connected to the center with ladders and fire poles to emphasize the Sugar Land fire and EMS departments’ constant vigilance. • 2255 Settlers Way Blvd., Sugar Land • www.sugarlandtx.gov

• Hwy. 6 and Fort Bend Tollway, Missouri City • www.eliteendospec.com

• 20236 Fort Bend Parkway, Ste. 220, Missouri City • www.thejoint.com

7 Barcello’s Fusion This restaurant will serve a combination of Portuguese, Italian and American cuisine. The fusion eatery will prepare some of its dishes peri peri style—seasoned with the African bird’s eye chile, which is a close relative to the tabasco pepper. Its menu will feature roast chicken, pastas, burgers and sandwiches. A website and social media presence for the restaurant is still in development. • Soft opening mid-October • 636 Hwy. 6, Ste. 100, Sugar Land

Closings

11 Kim Son After more than 25 years of service in Stafford, this Vietnamese restaurant closed its doors permanently at the end of September. Officials cite doubled rent prices for its closing. Its Bellaire and East Downtown locations remain open. • Closed Sept. 24 • 12750 Southwest Freeway, Stafford • www.kimson.com

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SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Government

Missouri City council annexes part of Sienna Missouri City City Council gave the green light to annex Sienna Municipal Utility District No. 2, a master-planned community, following an exten- sive series of hearings and discussions. The annexation will require the city to accom- modate and provide services for 6,000 new citizens, according to City Council documents. The details The decision, approved with a 5-2 majority vote, marks the end of a process that included multiple public hearings, consultations and comprehensive reviews of the proposed annexation’s implications. The annexation proposal, presented by Jennifer Thomas Gomez, the Missouri City director of development services, falls under the purview of the strategic partnership agreement established between the city of Missouri City and MUD 2 in 2001. Residents in the annexed area will have access to a range of supplemental services at a to-be-de- termined date, according to the city presentation, available for a monthly fee of $25 that will include: • Drainage discounts • Sidewalk maintenance • Street upkeep • Traffic enforcement • A dedicated police department liaison • A license plate recognition system • Daily drone operations • Code enforcement • Emergency management

Sugar Land City Council raises tax rate Sugar Land City Council unanimously approved the adoption of a new budget and an increased proposed tax rate at a recent City Council meeting Sept. 19. The details The proposed tax rate will increase to $0.35 per $100 of property valuation. This rate will lead to an average increase of $108.23 per year or $9.02 per month for the average resi- dential tax bill, according to city documents. However, this increase is partially offset by the City Council’s decision to raise the residential homestead exemption to 15%, aiming to alleviate the tax burden on resi- dents, according to city council documents. Utility rate increases were also recom- mended to sustain the water and wastewa- ter utilities and implement infrastructure projects. Residents can expect a $3 per month increase for 10,000 gallons of water usage and a $0.99 increase in residential solid waste services.

The city will begin taking tax revenue from Municipal Utility District No. 2 starting in October 2024.

COURTESY SIENNA

New responsibilities With the annexation of Sienna Municipal Utility District No. 2, Missouri City will add:

new residents 6,000

new homes 1,600

The city will be responsible for providing:

• Police and ire protection • Emergency

• Water and

wastewater services

medical services

• Road

Tax rate details

maintenance

A $0.0035 increase in tax rate year over year from $0.3465 in 2022 to $0.35 in 2023

Residents can learn about their MUD taxing entities here:

A property valued at $300,000 will be taxed $1,050 per year.

SOURCE: CITY OF SUGAR LANDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: CITY OF MISSOURI CITYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Missouri City approves FY 2023-24 budget, tax rate Missouri City City Council gathered Sept. 18 to discuss and approve the budget for the upcoming fiscal year from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, 2024. By the numbers

Quick tax facts The new tax rate’s impact is as follows:

The budget includes a tax revenue increase statement, as required by the Texas Local Gov- ernment Code. A significant portion of this $1.96 million increase is attributed to tax revenue from new properties added to the tax roll. The approved tax rate will facilitate the funding of various essential city services with an estimated total tax revenue of $61.04 million anticipated for FY 2023-24.

A property valued at $300,000 will be taxed $1,712 per year. The rate decreased from $0.5780 in 2022 to $0.5708 in 2023, a $0.0072 decrease year over year.

The tax rate for fiscal year 2023-24 was set at $0.570825 per $100 property valuation, in line with the voter-approval rate, according to City Council documents. The voter-approved rate is the maximum rate the city can enact as approved by residents.

$1.96 million in increased tax revenue will come from new properties.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JOE EDWARDS

Sugar Land hears latest Char House update Sugar Land City Council reviewed a presenta- tion from Urbano Architects on the construction, overall progress and additional technical develop- mental studies of the historic Imperial Char House at a Sept. 5 meeting. What’s happening Sugar Land City Council was updated on the construction progress and implementation of the land use plan’s technological studies for the Imperial Char House, according to a City Council presentation on Sept. 5. As of the latest update, the project has used $979,000 of the previously established reim- bursement agreement, according to City Council documents. Sugar Land City Council previously approved a $5 million reimbursement agreement that will cater to predevelopment and construction

Missouri City renames controversial streets Street signs in the Vicksburg Village of Shi- loh subdivision were officially replaced Aug. 24, according to an email from Missouri City officials. The change comes as a response to the controversy surrounding the historical ties of the former street names. The details The street names Bedford Forrest Drive and Bedford Forrest Court received criticism from Missouri City residents due to the names’ association with Nathan Bedford Forrest, a Confederate general and the first grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. In a unanimous decision, City Council approved the renaming of Bedford Forrest Drive to Liberty Way Drive and Bedford Forrest Court to Liberty Way Court.

expenses linked to the Imperial Char House. Predevelopment work has been active since Jan- uary, with Puma Development, Urbano Architects and Sugar Land officials collectively working on various technical and developmental studies. These studies include prefabrication and res- toration work as well as generalized engineering work on the Char House, research and applications for historic tax credits, and site planning.

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Prices, plans, features and options are subject to change without notice. Prices shown are based on home prices and do not include costs and fees, modifications to plans and custom features which may substantially affect final cost of home. Please check accuracy of information provided with your sales agent prior to purchasing. Features noted above could be plan or lot specific. Pictures, photographs/renderings, colors, features, and sizes are for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities, are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. Square footage is approximate only. Additional restrictions may apply. Furnishings and decorative items not included with home purchase. Artist renderings only. Subject to change. Schools, districts and zoning are outside of D.R. Horton, Inc.’s control and subject to change at any time. Buyer should conduct his or her own investigation of the present and future availability of school districts and school assignments. Seller has no control or responsibility for any changes to school districts or school assignments should they occur in the future. 11/2022.

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Education

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

Mental well-being—for both teachers and students—and the resources needed to achieve that were billed as a top priority in the newest 2023 Texas Teacher Poll from the Charles Butt Foundation. This year’s report, released Sept. 5, emphasized the “hearts and minds of teachers,” said Melissa Garza, Charles Butt Foundation research associate. The newest survey findings show 75% of teachers have considered leaving the profession. Results show many are worried about increasing workloads with shrinking resources. This number is slightly down from last year but higher than 2020. Combined with that is a number of teachers who don’t feel mentally well at their job. Pay also is a stressor, with the vast majority, 81%, reporting they feel underpaid. Poll: Teachers need resources

Also of note

The bottom line

The recent legislative session didn’t yield much for education challenges across Texas, said Bob Popinski, senior director of policy for Raise Your Hand Texas, a nonprofit aimed at promoting public policy. Meanwhile, polling from Charles Butt shows teachers feel responsible for not only teaching but for promoting mental health and safety. While 80% said they feel they have support and resources needed to allow students to be their “genuine self,” half said they didn’t have adequate training or support to respond to a student mental health crisis, according to the report. The Charles Butt poll on public spending shows teachers support a pay increase, along with: • Resources for students’ mental needs • Security • Addressing COVID-19-related learning gaps • Providing free meals to students. Other resources such as mentorship programs or therapy can help teachers prepare more for the role and mentally feel well, Popinski said. Looking ahead, Robison said a special legislative session aimed at addressing public schools could be coming in October, which could include public school money and teacher pay. “We’re seeing increased standards in public school but making it harder for teachers to [meet those requirements],” Popinski said.

Results show a higher number of teachers have considered leaving the profession since the COVID-19 pandemic. The increasing workload teachers are dealing with, combined with pay, are not only causing teachers to think about leaving the profession but are also prompting some to go out and look for work on the side, said Clay Robison, Texas State Teachers Associa- tion spokesperson. To that end, 41% of teachers in spring 2022 reported working a second job during the school year to make ends meet, Robison said. That number is up from 31% in spring 2016. “Teacher pay is more than $7,000 below the national average,” Robison said. ‘Should I stay or should I go?’ While 2023 saw a slight decline compared to previous years, a majority of the 1,029 teachers polled in the newest survey reported “seriously considering” leaving the profession.

Teachers considering leaving

Mental health of teachers by age A higher rate of young teachers reported their mental health was worse off compared to older teachers.

100%

75%

80%

Percent of teachers reporting only fair/poor mental health

60%

58%

40%

0% 50% 100%

20%

<30 30-39 40-49 50-59 60+

2020 2021 2022 2023

SOURCE: CHARLES BUTT FOUNDATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

you need to know about your community in 5 MINUTES

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM�NEWSLETTER

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY DAVE MANNING

Fort Bend ISD revealed plans for the Sugar Land 95 Memorial at a board meeting Sept. 11, and the plan represents the fruition of the strategic vision and design plan for the historic site authorized by the board of trustees in 2020. Chassidy Olainu-Alade, FBISD coordinator of community and civic engagement, presented the plans and said the site is projected to open in 2025. What happened The FBISD board in 2021 approved a contract agreement with MASS Design Group to assist in the planning and development of the area, which will include the memorial to be constructed at the site, which is located at the James Reese Career and Technical Center. The site currently has markers on identied cemetery sites and signs displaying information on the history of the location. What to expect Details of the what the project entails were described by Olainu-Alade as follows: • The burial ground will be accessible for visitors to read the markers and pay respects to individ- ual burials. • A pathway will lead visitors through the site, which will contain benches. • Signs will be placed throughout and will convey information about those interned in the Final design revealed for Sugar Land 95 Memorial

An exhibit commemorating the Sugar Land 95 will soon become a memorial site set to open in 2025.

COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

cemetery based on bio-forensic data, genealogi- cal studies and archival research. The possibility of a future bond to help fund the project was discussed at the board meeting, but no current plan yet exists. However, the board expressed interest in further discussion. The backstory While constructing FBISD’s James Reese Career and Technical Center, the remains of 95 individu- als were found that were believed to have died at the Bullhead Convict Labor Camp during Texas’ convict labor leasing program in the late 19th century. By August 2018, the remains had been examined and reinterred, as previously reported by Community Impact.

Historic cemetery site Research and DNA testing of those found buried at the site is ongoing, according to FBISD.

JAMES REESE CAREER AND TECHNICAL CENTER CEMETERY SITE

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SUGAR LAND MISSOURI CITY EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY JOE EDWARDS

Left-turn lanes are being added to Hwy. 6 intersections at Brooks Street and First Colony Boulevard.

DANIEL WEEKSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

1910 regAl WAter drive i Missouri citY, tX 77459 sAt i noV4 10Am-6pm Forest lAKe Model VillAge

Intersection improvement project progresses at Hwy. 6

November 2019. During the vote, residents approved a series of gen- eral obligation bond propositions totaling $90.76 million. Of this funding, $10.26 million was allocated to street projects, focusing on enhancing mobility and investing in the city’s street infrastructure, city ocials said. Other expenditures approved in the bond include: • $47.6 million in drainage projects • $26.3 million in public safety and public facility projects • $6.6 million to fund the design and construction of a new animal shelter Construction of the intersection improvements is progressing on schedule, with an anticipated com- pletion date set for mid-November, according to the city website. For more information and updates on mobility projects in the Sugar Land area, please visit www. communityimpact.com/news/ houston/sugar-land-missouri-city.

Construction is underway for a capital improvement project that focuses on tackling trac issues at the intersection of Hwy. 6 and Brooks Street/First Colony Boulevard. The overview Dual concurrent left turn lanes will be added on northbound First Colony Boulevard and southbound Brooks Street. This modication is intended to expedite trac ow during peak hours, reducing congestion and delays, city ocials said. The decision to undertake this project was prompted by the inter- section’s high trac volume and the need for smoother trac ow, the ocials said. A comprehensive trac study was conducted in 2023 to identify potential solutions, emphasizing improved trac mobil- ity and enhancing safety along Hwy. 6, Brooks Street and First Colony Boulevard. By the numbers This project received approval from Sugar Land voters in

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SUGAR LAND MISSOURI CITY EDITION

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Development

BY SHAHERYAR KHAN

Fort Bend Epicenter opens its doors to local, national events

• 10,000-seat arena • Indoor event spaces • Outdoor pavilion What’re they saying

The Fort Bend Epicenter, located at 28505 Southwest Freeway, Rosenberg, held a ribbon-cut- ting Aug. 18, and the multipurpose event center was unveiled. The details The center spans 230,000 square feet and cost $120 million. Stonehenge LLC oversaw financing and development planning. The county provided $27 million for preoperation costs. The county will oversee the facility, utilizing fees for renting the space and other revenues to cover lease payments. Following bond repayment by 2050, ownership of the facility will transfer to Fort Bend County. The facility offers a wide range of amenities, and there are plans to host a number of events. The amenities include:

Full calendar

Upcoming events

Top Rank Boxing • Oct. 14, 5:15 p.m. • $35-$100 admission • www.toprank.com

One aspect of the facility is its potential to create an impact at the local, regional and national levels, said Toby Wyman, general manager of the Fort Bend Epicenter. “We’re going to be hosting graduations for Fort Bend [ISD and] Lamar [CISD] for several years,” Wyman said. “Most students have had to go outside the county to graduate. Now, we’ll be able to bring that experience here.” The facility can hold as many as 10,000 indi- viduals and is equipped with amenities such as concessions and backup power. This ensures it can offer food, drinks and other necessities during emergencies.

Texas Gun Shows • Oct. 28-29, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. • $20 admission • www.gunshowstx.com Diwali Dussehra Festival • Nov. 4, 2-8 p.m. • $12 admission • www.shrisitaram.org

SOURCE: FORT BEND EPICENTER/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Real estate

Number of homes sold

August 2022

August 2023

Residential market data

124 122

31 51

+64.5%

-1.6%

77498

77459

The median home sales price in the Sugar Land and Missouri City area slightly increased overall in August compared to August 2022. No ZIP code’s change in median sales price was above 4%.

25 26

78 103

+32.1%

+4%

77479

77489

99 TOLL

21 20

-4.8%

77478

Median home sales price

2022

2023

77498

+1.14%

$325K

$321K

77498 77479 77489 77459

77478

77479

+2.7%

$527K

$513K

77478

+3.48%

$430K

$415K

77459

+1.5%

$430K

$424K

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY ALINA ROGERS SPARROW REALTY • 281-961-2944 ALINAWROGERS@YAHOO.COM

77489

+0.62%

$242K

$240K

Join us for an upcoming Preview Night! Come learn more about our Christian, college-preparatory curriculum, powerful enrichment programs, winning athletics, excellent fine arts, and abundant student life opportunities.

VOTED

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

Election

BY JOE EDWARDS

BY DAVE MANNING

Voter Guide

FBISD approves tax rate increase election for November

2023

Voters will decide on Nov. 7 whether to approve Fort Bend ISD’s proposed tax rate increase for the purpose of increasing starting teacher pay and boosting school security. The FBISD board proposed an increase of $0.04 per $100 property valuation to $0.9892 for fiscal year 2023-24 at an Aug. 21 meeting, paving the way for a voter-approval tax rate election, or VATRE. What happened The board approved the measure by a vote of 6-1 with trustee David Hamilton being the lone dis- senter, based largely on the grounds that the board had already given one-time bonuses to teachers in FY 2022-23. FBISD Chief Financial Officer Brian Guinn said the current rate of $0.9492 does not provide the necessary funding to match other districts in the region in hiring qualified teachers and staff as well as providing campus security as mandated by House Bill 3, which requires school districts to

have an armed officer on each campus. Guinn presented to the board tax increase options of $0.02, $0.03, $0.04 and $0.05 in addi- tion to recommending raises, other staffing and security personnel, and other measures. In particular, trustee Kristen Malone led the charge for a $0.04 increase rather than the district’s proposed $0.05 increase. A compromise was reached at 11:38 p.m. The board had only until midnight to pass the measure. The last time FBISD held a VATRE in November 2022, it failed with 54% of respondents voting against the effort to maintain a higher tax rate and avoid a budget shortfall. The proposed rate increase would bring $35.2 million annually, of which 70% would go toward compensation for teachers, librarians, nurses and counselors. Additionally, armed and uniformed police officers will be assigned to all district elementary schools.

Supporting staff The proposed tax rate increase would go toward supporting district employees.

Lamar CISD $15 million for stadium improvements There are 14 statewide constitutional amendments on the ballot as well. Learn more on Page 21.

Dates to know

Sample ballot

Oct. 23: First day of early voting Oct. 27: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Nov. 3: Last day of early voting Nov. 7: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or Nov. 8 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Fort Bend ISD The Fort Bend ISD board of trustees proposed an increase of $0.04 per $100 valuation for the fiscal year 2023-24. This proposal sets the stage for a voter- approval tax rate election, or VATRE, to be held Nov. 7, where voters can approve or deny the tax rate hike.

$2,500 increase in starting teacher pay to a $62,000 salary

SOURCES: FORT BEND COUNTY, FORT BEND ISD, LAMAR CISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

3% pay increase for district professionals

Fort Bend County Proposition A

Where to vote

The county is seeking approval to issue $712.6 million for the construction and maintenance of several roads throughout the county. Proposition B $153 million worth of projects updating parks and related facilities will also appear on ballots.

Fort Bend County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on Election Day. Visit www.fortbendcountytx.gov for polling locations.

$1.50 per hour pay increase for nonprofessional staff

$5,742 increase in officer pay

NOTE: NONPROFESSIONAL STAFF INCLUDES CLASSROOM AIDES AND BUS DRIVERS. SOURCE: FORT BEND ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SUGAR LAND 3335 HWY 6 S (281) 313-4446 MISSOURI CITY 5418 HWY 6 (281) 403-0400

SUGAR CREEK 13827 Southwest Fwy (281) 491-8628 SIENNA PLANTATION 9034 Sienna Crossing Dr (281) 778-9959

NEW TERRITORY 5720 New Territory Blvd (281) 491-0811

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

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

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

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY HANNAH NORTON

Breaking down the 14 state propositions on the Nov. ballot

Texas voters will find 14 propositions to amend the state constitution on the Nov. 7 ballot. Community Impact spoke with Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston, to break down each proposition. Constitutional amendment elections give Texans “a window into the policy process” and a “chance to participate” in state affairs, Rottinghaus said.

Proposition 10

Proposition 5

SJR 87 What it’s asking: Proposition 10 would prevent medical and biomedical manufacturers from paying taxes on their tangible personal property, which the majority of businesses are currently taxed on. Officials said this exemption would strengthen Texas’ medical industry.

HJR 3 What it’s asking: The state’s National Research University Fund would be replaced with the Texas University Fund. Four universities—Texas Tech University, the University of Houston, the University of North Texas and Texas State University—would qualify for the research endowment. Roughly $273 million would be set aside for 2024-25.

SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

Proposition 1

House Joint Resolution 126 What it’s asking: This proposition aims to increase landowners’ rights to regulate what happens on their property and limit state or federal interference.

Proposition 11

Proposition 6

SJR 32 What it’s asking: This proposition would create the El Paso County Conservation and Reclamation District. Various counties and regions in Texas have similar districts, which tax local residents to support the creation and development of water services and other facilities.

SJR 75 What it’s asking: Voters can decide whether to establish the Texas Water Fund, which would support new and existing water projects across the state. The Texas Water Development Board would oversee the new fund.

Proposition 2

Senate Joint Resolution 64 What it’s asking: City and county governments would be allowed to offer a property tax exemption to child care facilities. Rottinghaus said this would reduce property tax burdens on child care organizations, which many families rely on.

Proposition 7

Proposition 12

SJR 93 What it’s asking: This proposition would establish the Texas Energy Fund, which would finance the construction, maintenance and operation of electric facilities to ensure the state power grid remains reliable. The Public Utility Commission of Texas would oversee the new fund.

HJR 134 What it’s asking: This proposition would eliminate the Galveston County Treasurer’s Office. If approved, other county officials would take over the duties of the treasurer. All Texas voters can vote on the proposition, but it only takes effect if a majority of Galveston County voters authorize it.

Proposition 3

HJR 132 What it’s asking: This proposition asks voters to prevent a wealth tax, which is based on a person or entity’s assets, from being imposed in the future. Texas does not currently have any form of wealth taxes.

Proposition 8

Proposition 13

HJR 125 What it’s asking: Proposition 8 asks voters to authorize the creation of the Texas Broadband Infrastructure Fund, which would help expand high-speed internet access statewide. The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts would oversee the new fund.

HJR 107 What it’s asking: Voters can decide whether to raise the mandatory retirement period from 70-75 years old to 75-79 years old for justices and judges on appellate, district and criminal district courts.

Proposition 4

HJR 2, from the second special session What it’s asking: Voters can decide to authorize a $100,000 property tax exemption for Texans’ primary homes; establish a temporary 20% limit on annual value increases for nonhomestead properties worth $5 million or less; require members of appraisal boards in counties of over 75,000 people to serve staggered four-year terms; and prevent funds allocated for property tax relief from going against the state’s constitutional spending limit.

Proposition 9

Proposition 14

HJR 2, from the regular session What it’s asking: Voters can approve a cost-of- living adjustment for many former teachers. To combat inflation, teachers who retired before 2001 would get a 6% adjustment, those who retired between 2001-13 would get a 4% adjustment, and those who retired between 2013-20 would get a 2% adjustment.

SJR 74 What it’s asking: This proposition would create the Texas Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, which would support the creation and improvement of state parks. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department would oversee the new fund.

SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION

From the cover

Fort Bend County calls $712.6M mobility bond

Proposed mobility projects This map is not comprehensive as some broader projects don’t have precise locations. Prices shown represent the amount the bond would fund each project, not the total project cost.

The details

Precinct 3—which encompasses the Sugar Land, Missouri City and Staord areas—will receive $144.5 million should the bond pass this November. This is $85 million more than it received in the 2017 voter-approved bond. County documents show $13 million would go toward local mobility projects from past voter-approved bonds. McCoy said the projects need additional funding due to increases in construction cost, among other factors. “There are things that we did design and right-of-way acquisition for that now we need construction funds for,” McCoy said. If the bond passes, countywide projects include: • Smart Signal Technology initiative: $10 million to implement signal enhancements aimed at monitoring inbound trafic and continually adjusting signal timing to optimize trafic flow • Pedestrian mobility study: $3 million study of pedestrian trafic and mobility Missouri City Public Works Director Shashi Kumar highlighted the importance of the ongoing Watts Plantation extension and widening project, which would receive $10.7 million from the bond. He said in a statement that this project would “help promote economic development in undeveloped areas” and reduce congestion in the area. Additionally, some of the other major projects that will aect the Sugar Land and Missouri City area if the bond passes include: • West Airport Boulevard: $3.86 million for an additional lane and a right-turn lane from the Grand Parkway to FM 1464 • Old Richmond Road: $15.75 million to upgrade the two-lane road with roadside ditches to a three-lane curb-and-gutter road

Widening 1 Sienna Parkway: $6.25M 2 West Airport Boulevard: $3.86M 3 Sweetwater Boulevard phases 1 and 2: $5.5M 4 Settlers Way Boulevard: $4.4M

Turn-lane improvements 5 University Boulevard: $3.96M 6 Knights Court phases 1 and 2: $1.5M

Reconstruction 7 Downtown Missouri City: $3.5M 8 Pike Road and Stafford Road: $2.89M 9 Williams Trace Boulevard: $11.2M 10 Lexington Boulevard phases 1 and 2: $5.4M

STAFFORD RD.

1464

99 TOLL

PIKE RD.

Sugar Land

LAKE POINTE PKWY.

Missouri City

WILLAMS TRACE BLVD.

OILFIELD RD.

LEXINGTON BLV D

THOMPSON FERRY RD.

SETTLERS WAY BLVD.

1092

KNIGHTS COURT

SIENNA PKWY.

SIENNA RANCH RD.

SWEETWATER BLVD.

COMMONWEALTH BLVD.

RIVERSTONE BLVD.

KITTY HOLLOW PARK

SIENNA PKWY.

What they’re saying

“Mobility continues to be identied as one of our community’s top priorities. Continued investments in this area meet the needs of our

“Our county is growing exponentially. … We’re one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation. With that comes increasing needs for infrastructure, and

“These projects will help improve quality of life, promote economic development and enhance mobility to the residents of

residents, support a strong economy, and enable our city to grow and evolve.” DOUG ADOLPH, SUGAR LAND COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

so that’s why this will be a signicant bond initiative.” DEXTER MCCOY, FORT BEND COUNTY COMMISSIONER, PRECINCT 4

nearby neighborhoods.” SHASHI KUMAR, MISSOURI CITY PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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