|
Vol. 7, Issue 15 - 8.15.2025
|
|
Dear Friends,
SOLID WASTE
I know. I know. Solid waste pickup is delayed—and you’re tired of hearing the same responses from my office and the department. That’s why we’re taking some action into our own hands.
If you’ve been waiting months
for a replacement waste or recycling bin, please email Sarai Robinson (sarai.r...@houstontx.gov)
with your 311-service request number. My office is compiling a list of pending/delayed requests to deliver directly to Solid Waste via the Hot Team. Let’s get this moving.
PUBLIC SAFETY
(SN20): Crossview Apartments in Midwest Houston has faced a string of violent incidents over the past year—including two homicides—and repeated complaints about the PRIVE club next door. On
September 4, 2025,
I will visit the property with Midwest HPD, the Department of Neighborhoods, property owners, and residents to address concerns and review pending lawsuits.
Several other complexes are seeing similar trends. I plan to return with a clear outline of our next steps.
QUALITY OF LIFE
We’ve partnered with the Department of Neighborhoods and
Career Recovery Services to support the Good Neighbor Program, which tackles blight through landscaping, debris pickup, tree trimming, boarding abandoned homes, and installing gates to deter squatting.
So far, we’ve completed two sites: 11015 Triola and 9618 Winsome Ln. HOAs/civic clubs, Veterans, disabled individuals, and seniors 65+—this program can be a game-changer for you. Email
dist...@houstontx.gov with the subject line “Good Neighbor Program” and Sarai Robinson can assist.
HOMELESSNESS
You may be noticing an uptick in unhoused individuals at intersections that haven’t typically been hotspots. Your eyes aren’t deceiving you. Good news: On Wednesday,
$40M for homelessness services was included in the $314M CDBG-DR24 Action Plan—funds that will support case management, rental assistance, and more. On the westside,
WHAM continues to be a critical partner for those in need.
DISASTER RECOVERY FUNDS AVAILABLE
If the 2021 Winter Freeze impacted you, you may be eligible for:
- Up to $10,000 reimbursement for repairs
- Up to $300,000 for a complete reconstruction
You do not have to recover alone. Apply
here.
PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE
Several local projects are delayed. I have two major briefings with Houston Public Works in the coming weeks to review pending applications for speed cushions, sidewalks, and panel replacements.
Please note: For FY26, the CDSF budget has $138,000 remaining for projects through June 30, 2026.
We’ve requested cost estimates on your behalf for throughout the year to speed things along. If your project meets the requirements for
funding it can be slated for the upcoming FY27. Remember to report all issues to 311 and provide a service request number so we can start the cost estimate process.
|
|
With Regards,
Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas
Houston City Council, District F |
|
Total Work Orders: 11
Hotspot of the Week: Spring Grove Easement
Total Man Hours Worked: 120
Tree Waste: 450 lbs.
Mattresses: 1
Furniture Waste: 4 pieces
Tires: 2
Trash Debris: 300 lbs.
Shopping Carts: 0
Bandit Signs: 18
Landscaping: 1 location totaling 50,000 square feet.
Other: Received and delivered 500 backpacks to multiple locations.
System: 5 pending illegal dump sites and 4 pending missed yard waste, with 2 pending landscaping locations as of 8.14.2025
|
|
|
A DEDICATION TO BARBARA QUATTRO
|
|
|
I don’t know an Alief without Barbara Quattro. Her bold energy, unwavering commitment to people, and relentless love for
her neighborhood helped shape the pride and richness we all experience today.
Barbara was a canary in a world of wrens—always sounding the alarm and guiding us toward what was just and right. The Alief Neighborhood Center exists, in large part, because of her tireless advocacy. And that's why I was so pleased she was able to see her
name etched inside the building. Her flowers in real time. She demanded that every elected official, regardless of title or term, fulfill the people’s promise. That was her essence: always centering the people, never herself.
She singlehandedly planted thousands of trees (and the forced labor of her family)—cooling and beautifying our community without permission or fanfare. But that was Barbara. She didn’t ask for permission. She pioneered her own way forward because she knew she
was right. And we knew it, too.
Barbara also understood legacy. She knew she wouldn’t be here forever, so she opened her arms to the next generation—to lead, to serve, and to carry on because she knew our future depended on it. She wasn’t a gatekeeper; she was a door-opener, and she was always
ready to fight for what mattered. And baby, let me emphasize ready to fight! If BQ was on your side, you were going to win. Just two weeks ago she emailed me about The Empty Shelter Project. She was working for us until the very end.
My heart is heavy-heavy. I will miss my friend deeply. But she’s shown us what real public service looks like. And now it’s on us to carry the torch. Job well done, my friend. Rest well, BQ. You've done a helluva job!
The Alief Super Neighborhood #25 and my office will host a memorial service in October 2025 to celebrate her life and impact. Do you have a memory of Barbara? Please share. Your memory will be shared at her public memorial. Stay tuned for details.
|
|
Disaster Relief: CDBG-DR24 Vote
On August 13, 2025, Houston City Council approved a $314 million federal disaster recovery plan for damages from the May 2024 derecho and Hurricane Beryl. The most significant win came from Council Member Thomas, who introduced the amendment to double the housing
allocation from $50 million to $100 million which passed with a 12–3 vote.
Originally, the disaster recovery plan for Hurricane Beryl and the Derecho contained no housing funds after federal officials advised prioritizing other recovery needs. Following public pushback, $50 million was added — and Council Member Thomas successfully
secured an additional $50 million, ensuring equal funding for single-family and multi-family housing repairs.
Read news coverage at the Houston
Chronicle,
the
Defender, and
CW39.
|
|
|
|
Council Member Thomas' $50M Housing Amendment Passes Houston City Council with Mayor John Whitmire's Support
|
|
|
HUNTINGTON VILLAGE ENGAGEMENT
|
|
|
|
|
Huntington Village NTMP Plans
|
|
|
Earlier this year, District F allocated funding for the Huntington Village Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP)
Project. We are now moving into the public notice phase, and your voice is essential in shaping the outcome.
Council Member Thomas will be visiting the Huntington Village HOA in September to encourage participation. This is your opportunity to share feedback, ask questions, and help ensure the project addresses the traffic and safety needs of your neighborhood.
Please be involved by completing the following: Review the upcoming public notice when it’s delivered, share your comments and suggestions during the submission period, and attend community meetings to stay informed and engaged.
Your input matters. Together, we can make Huntington Village safer and more livable for all residents. Please view the letter
here
to submit your comments online here.
|
|
|
SOLID WASTE & RECYCLING UPDATE
|
|
|
|
If you’ve noticed your recycling hasn’t been picked up on time lately, you’re not alone. Houston’s recycling services are
currently facing delays because many of the city’s trucks are out of commission and waiting for repairs.
Recycling collection is running 1 day behind schedule.
Note: These numbers do not include Wednesdays & Weekends. South operations are currently working on Thursday B routes. North operations are currently working on Thursday B routes.
Garbage collection is on schedule. Yard waste services are delayed and are being collected with your heavy trash waste.
Good news: The city has approved new trucks to help get things back on track, and some are arriving soon.
But it’ll take a little time before pickup schedules are fully back to normal.
In the meantime, if your recycling gets missed, don’t forget to report it through the city’s
311 system. And if you can, drop off your recyclables at nearby recycling centers to keep things moving. City officials are working hard to improve the situation and keep everyone informed.
How do I get help? Please email dist...@houstontx.gov or call 832-393-3002 to reach our team so that we can appropriately escalate your case.
|
|
|
|
The Clean Up Woman - District F Hot Team |
|
|
Illegal dumping has been plaguing District F which is creating nuisances, lowering property values, and diminishing quality
of life. Under the leadership of Council Member Thomas, the HOT SPOT Team is taking direct action. We’re going into neighborhoods across District F to address these issues head-on, removing debris and restoring cleaner, safer spaces for our residents.
Watch the PSA above to see the HOT SPOT Team’s work in action and learn how we’re making a difference right where you live. Call 832-393-3002 or email our office with more information about your neighborhood with a 311 number so that we can take direct action.
|
|
|
PUBLIC SAFETY IN DISTRICT F
|
|
|
|
Recent incidents in District F, including shootings, fires, and other emergencies, are reminders of how important it is
to stay vigilant and work together to keep District F safe. Council Member Thomas has made public safety one of her highest priorities, and our office encourages residents to report any safety concerns directly to us or to law enforcement.
From responding to violent crime in Alief to supporting residents impacted by fires and power outages, Council Member Thomas is committed to being present in your neighborhoods and ensuring resources are deployed where they’re needed most.
If you see suspicious activity or have information about a crime: HPD Homicide Division: 713-308-3600 and Crime Stoppers: 713-222-TIPS (8477). Your voice and vigilance help us protect our community.
Teen Killed in Ashford Meadow Drive (August 10, 2025):
A boy inside his home was struck by gunfire from a parking lot shootout. He later died at the hospital. HPD recovered multiple shell casings at the scene. No suspect description is available. ABC 13 News Coverage
here.
Fire Near High Star Drive and South Kirkwood Road (August 10, 2025):
A blaze destroyed a resale clothing store and the connected residence. One Houston firefighter was hospitalized with heat exhaustion; no civilian injuries were reported. Investigators are looking into a possible electrical cause. KHOU News Coverage
here.
Deadly Shooting on Boone Road (August 12, 2025):
Three suspects fled after allegedly robbing and fatally shooting a 65-year-old man. Following a police chase ending near the 610 South Loop, one suspect — Colby Tyler — was arrested and charged with capital murder, evading arrest, and tampering with evidence.
The two other suspects remain unidentified. FOX 26 Coverage
here.
|
|
|
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE EMANUEL CLEAVER II SPEAKS AT WINDSOR FAMILY CHURCH
|
|
|
On August 3, 2025, Council Member Thomas met with Prairie View A&M University alumnus and ordained elder in the United
Methodist Church U.S.
Representative Emanuel Cleaver II, ranking member of the House Financial Services Subcommittee
on Housing and Insurance. Representative Cleaver delivered an inspiring message at Windsor Family Church on being ourselves when we're up against giants. His leadership is advancing a legislative bill that will benefit the housing market for Americans for
years to come.
|
|
|
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES HOUSING SUMMIT
|
|
|
On August 5, 2025, Council Member Thomas joined Mayors and private sector leaders from across the country for the
Housing
Supply Accelerator Summit in Washington, DC. The summit was organized by the
National
League of Cities. During the event, speakers discussed public-private partnerships, the changing
landscape of housing policy and how collaboration will be key to addressing the crisis.
|
|
|
On August 6, 2025, District F proudly partnered with Alief ISD to provide 100 backpacks filled with school supplies to
help students start the year strong (bottom left). Just a few days later, on August 9, we joined Agape Church and Heads Up Houston for their annual Back to School Bash (bottom right). Together, we distributed 300 backpacks to families across the community,
ensuring students are equipped and ready to learn.
We’re always proud to partner with civic and faith leaders who live their mission every single day, making a direct impact in our community. In addition, we provided 100 bags to Emerson Elementary, Briarmeadow Elementary in HISD, and the Alief ISD Education
Foundation for distribution. It truly takes a village.
|
|
|
1ST SRI ASHTALAKSHMI TEMPLE STATUE OF UNION ANNIVERSARY
|
|
|
On August 9, 2025, Council Member Thomas attended the
SRI
Ashtalakshmi Temple's Union Fest 2025, the First Anniversary Celebration of the Statue of Union,
a monumental symbol of unity, strength, and service. Council Member Thomas delivered remarks on the theme of the evening — a reflection on the values that unite us, the shared human spirit of compassion, righteousness, and responsibility that relate to being
productive members of society.
Envisioned by His Holiness Sri Chinna Jeeyar Swamiji, the Statue of Union, at 90 feet, stands as the third tallest in the United States and continues to serve as a spiritual and cultural landmark for our nation. A historic masterpiece, the Statue of Union inspires
and reminds us to build bridges between all communities in serving the greater good in the spirit of unity and harmony.
|
|
|
HOUSTON AREA URBAN LEAGUE OF YOUNG PROFESSIONALS RECEIVE PROCLAMATION
|
|
|
|
Council Member Thomas Presents Proclamation to the Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals
|
|
|
On August 12, 2025, Council Member Thomas and Mayor Whitmire proclaimed the HAULYP Day by the City of Houston for the
Houston
Area Urban League of Young Professionals
as the organization received a proclamation for their leadership development programs, networking opportunities, and community outreach. HAULYP continues
to build a pipeline of socially conscious professionals who are deeply invested in shaping a more inclusive and empowered future for all Houstonians. The City of Houston commends the Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals for their continued excellence,
impactful service, and passionate dedication to the advancement of our communities today and in the years to come.
|
|
|
UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
|
|
|
|
Get Involved in District F!
|
|
District F is calling on passionate residents to join our efforts! Sign up for volunteer opportunities and make a difference
in your community.
Sign up here for general Volunteer
Team opportunities.
Sign up here for our Volunteer
Translation Team to assist with outreach and ensure all voices in our diverse district are heard.
Together, we can strengthen and support District F! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
CONTACT THE DISTRICT F TEAM
|
|
|
|
|
