The District J Journal – July 11, 2014

It’s Budget Season!

City Council wrapped up nearly three weeks of FY2015 budget deliberations this past Wednesday.

I was pleased to offer two amendments to the CIP (Capital Improvements Projects) Budget that were passed by Council:

Money for Speed Cushions

One of those amendments was the inclusion of an additional $250,000 for the CIP Budget allocated for neighborhood speed cushions. This would bring the total amount of funding to $500,000 – the amount I was able to increase this programs’ funding to last year. Speed cushions are important safety tools for neighborhoods, and this amendment will ensure that funding levels remain consistent.

Equal Funding for All

I also offered an amendment stating that not less than 1 percent of the annual CIP budget be allotted to each council district. This ensures that every council district receives the same baseline amount of funding devoted to Capital Improvement Projects within its boundaries.

Council District Service Budgets

I was also pleased that an amendment creating Council District Service Budgets was passed by an overwhelming majority of Council.

This amendment allots $11 million ($5 million in general fund dollars and $6 million in CIP funds), equally distributed to the 11 council districts, to more quickly address smaller infrastructure construction and repair needs, without waiting years for such improvements to be constructed on the current CIP timelines.

Input from the community will be vital to making this new process work, and there will be detailed requirements as to how, and for what projects, these funds can be used. The District J Office will keep you informed about these new rules and regulations for the use of funds as they are formulated and finalized. 

Condolences . . .

I know you will join me in holding

Fire Fighter Daniel Groover, of Fire Station 104, and his family in your thoughts and prayers. He was a 46-year-old veteran of the Houston Fire Department and lost his life fighting a house fire in Kingwood.

Donations can made in his name to The 100 Club, who is providing assistance to the family.

Take a moment to remember this true hero.

Blessings,

-Mike Laster, Council Member – District J

Honoring our Faith Leaders

Council Member Mike Laster and all of District J would like to welcome the Reverend Ms. Christine Faulstich as the new Rector of The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, located at Bissonnet and Gessner!

Rev. Faulstich was gracious enough to attend and lead the prayer-service at Fire Station 68 on the one year anniversary of the fire that claimed the life of four Houston firefighters on May 31, 2013. Rev. Faulstich and all our Faith Leaders are a vital source for the District J Community and we are proud and grateful for their dedication and service.

The Mayor’s Annual Back 2 School Fest 

Registration ends July 18th to sign up for the Mayor’s Annual Back 2 School Fest! This year’s event will help 25,000 pre-registered students (K-5th Grade) prepare for the new school year. Students will receive backpacks, school supplies, immunizations and hair cut vouchers. Health screenings by local agencies, City of Houston services, and social service resources will also be available to families in attendance.

Please visit the above link to register of call 832-393-0939 for more information. Due to limited supplies, registration may end early, so register soon!

ECHOS Shred and Recycle Day

Upcoming Events