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VOL 12 No. 52
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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2019
P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623
Official newspaper of Fort Bend County, Missouri City & Stafford
Refugee resettlement consent letter delayed, not dead
The total number of refugees resettled in the United States per state over the last five fiscal years.
Katy Rotary Club members present a check for $3,000 to Fort Bend County Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers toward the Fort Bend Charities. Since 2003, Commissioner Meyers has donated more than a million dollars through Fort Bend Charities to a broad range of charities serving Fort Bend County. More on Page 2.
By SESHADRI KUMAR Fort Bend County Judge KP George pulled the consent letter for refugee resettlement from the commissioners court agenda last week, but the issue is far from resolved. In fact, a host of legal issues remain to be answered and the original executive order 13888 issued by President Donald Trump itself is facing legal challenge. George had placed the item on the commissioners court agenda, essentially based on the letter from the Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, and taking the request at its face value. Following strong objections from cities like the City of Sugar Land and some community members, coupled with the possibility that he would not have three votes on the commissioners court to adopt the letter, George withdrew the item. Had he gone ahead and if the item was voted down, he could have sent a no consent letter. Now, the issue is in limbo. The state of Texas has also not taken any action on this letter yet. According to one interpretation, the state has to affirmatively send a letter stating yes or no. Not sending a letter would amount to accepting refugees to be resettled in the state. The city of Sugar Land sought appropriate communication between the county and the municipalities regarding what is expected of them in resettling refugees in their cities. “It is unclear if the county aims to commit only county resources for the purpose of resettling the refugees or if there is an expectation that
municipalities would need to be equipped to support resettlement,” the city’s letter said. If the city was expected to support resettlement, the city was not notified by the county of its expectation. According to the executive order, there is no deadline for submitting consent. Postponing the item will allow the county to develop public policy with the input of municipalities which will be ultimately affected, the letter said. According to published reports, 21 states have expressed their consent to the federal government so far. Even if politics is taken out of the discussion, the cost implication is not known at this time for a county to commit itself to the program. Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, Church World Service, and Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, three faithbased national resettlement agencies that hold agreements with the federal government to assist refugees admitted to the United States, have filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District in Maryland, challenging “the President’s unprecedented attempt to condition the resettlement of refugees on state and local governments providing advance written consent to refugee resettlement in their jurisdictions.” “The President’s order and resulting agency actions threaten to deprive thousands of refugees of their best chance to successfully build a new life and to burden thousands of U.S. families who are waiting to reunite with their parents, children, and other relatives fleeing persecution,” according to the plaintiffs.
“The Order thus establishes a default whereby refugees will not be resettled unless the state and locality take the affirmative step of providing written consent— never before required—to such resettlement. In doing so, the Executive Order contravenes the Refugee Act, exceeds the scope of the Administration’s statutory authority, and violates constitutional federalism principles. “ The plaintiffs alleged that the executive order violated the Refugee Act, the Administrative Procedure Act and the U.S. Constitution. The suspensions of refugee admissions, the slashing of the annual refugee admissions goal, the failure to meet even slashed goals, and the delay in making the statutorily required determination—have not just harmed refugees waiting to come to the United States. They have also devastated refugees already here and the organizations that seek to help them, according to the petition. Within his first week in office, President Trump made good on his promise by signing Executive Order 13769, which, among other things, called for a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee admissions program and an indefinite ban on the resettlement of Syrian refugees. “Executive Order 13769 also dramatically slashed the annual goal for refugee admissions set by President Obama by more than half. Federal courts immediately blocked certain provisions of Executive Order 13769, but the Trump Administration was undeterred. It continued with an onslaught of policies See REFUGEE, Page 3.
Sugar Land gets Performance Management Leadership Award
(Front row, L-R) during a recent City Council recognition are Performance and Accountability Director Reena Varghese; Data Analyst Hongqiang Sun; Performance and Accountability Analyst Rachel Owens; Performance and Accountability Manager Karen Ramirez; Mayor Joe Zimmerman, (back row) Councilmembers Stewart Jacobson, Himesh Gandhi and Carol McCutcheon; City Brennan Vacek and Aedin Waldorf won Best Actor and Best Actress at the 2019 TAPPS One-Act Manager Allen Bogard; and Councilmembers Naushad Kermally, Steve Porter and Jennifer Lane. See story on Page 3. District competition for their roles in The Diviners. Story on Page 2.
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INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 25, 2019 • Page 2
NEWS
Fort Bend County Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers and SCA Administrator Rebecca Guabatz with children from Simonton Community Church.
Pastor Steve Littlefield of Simonton Community Church, left, Fort Bend County Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers and SCA Administrator Rebecca Guabatz.
Fort Bend Charities distributes $100,000 in donations
Fort Bend Charities has provided $100,000 in monetary donations made possible by the attendees of the 2019 Fort Bend Ranchers’ Ball, and the generous donation and longtime support from organizations like the Katy Rotary which recently donated $3,000 to Fort Bend Charities. The recipients of the donation include Katy Christian Ministries $20,000 (and meat valued at $15,000 purchased at the Fort Bend County Fair Junior Live Stock Auction), Simonton Christian Academy $30,000, Combined Arms $20,000 and Women’s Pregnancy Resource Center will be receiving $30,000. Since 2003, Commissioner Meyers has had the privilege of donating more than a million dollars through Fort Bend Charities to a broad range of charities serving Fort Bend County. Along with these donations, Fort Bend Charities hosted the
annual Fort Bend Arts Festival with over 6,500 local residents attending in April, 2019. The festival included 100 kid-friendly vendors and activities, a character parade, and the award ceremony for the Literary & Fine Arts Competition which had 425 students and 96 teachers from 26 Fort Bend County Precinct 3 schools participate in 2019. Fort Bend Charities has also worked to provide donations directly to Precinct 3 residents impacted by Hurricane Harvey, and supports various community events and organizations throughout the year. Those interested in learning more can contact 281-238-1400 or visit https://fortbendcharitiesinc.org/. Commissioner Meyers recently had the honor of presenting
a $30,000 donation to Simonton Christian Academy (SCA) on behalf of his charity, Fort Bend Charities Inc. The check was received by SCA’s administrator, Rebecca Guabatz, Pastor Steve Littlefield, of Simonton Community Church, and several SCA students. Founded in 1992 by parents within the membership of Simonton Community Church, SCA has worked to provide an outstanding, faith-based educational experience to the PreK 5th-grade students of Simonton, Texas. Special thanks to all who attended and supported the 2019 Ranchers’ Ball and other events the charity has held since 2003. Because of your support, Fort Bend Charities has raised more than a million dollars for a variety of charities working to serve, educate, support and care for residents throughout Fort Bend County.
Fort Bend Christian Academy wins best play, best actor and actress awards at state competition
Jennie Mae (Aedin Waldorf), Goldie Short (Ariana Garcia) and Buddy (Sam Farah) in The Diviners. After making Fort Bend Christian Academy (FBCA) history in 2018 with District wins for Best Play, Best Actor and Best Actress at the TAPPS One-Act Play competition, FBCA repeated the same wins this year. The Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools commits to building leadership, fellowship, fair play and sportsmanship of students enrolled in the organization’s member schools in the areas of academics, athletics and fine arts by providing wholesome competition. This year’s TAPPS Division I, District 4 competition was held in November at San Jacinto College in Houston. FBCA’s entry, The Diviners, placed first for Best Play, while its actors, seniors Brennan Vacek and Aedin Waldorf won Best Actor and Best Ac-
tress, respectively. It was Waldorf’s second year in a row to receive this honor. “The cast of The Diviners consisted of our top actors in the school. They have been acting on stage for years,” says FBCA’s theatre arts teacher, Lana Thompson. “We only take our juniors and seniors to the competition. Everyone from the production theatre class attends, either as actors or crew members.” The Diviners tells the story of a disturbed young man and his friendship with a disenchanted preacher in the early 1930s. Last year, 2018, marked the first time in the FBCA’s history that the school won the three top categories, with its entry The Scent of Jasmine placing first for Best Play, as well as Best Actor and Best Actress awards. The play told
a touching story about a young girl (Waldorf) learning how to deal with loss and grief. Senior Matthew Pozzi won Best Actor, and junior Waldorf brought home the Best Actress award. “I truly am so lucky to have a class that supports me through everything. Both years, we’ve become like family, and they have been instrumental to my growth as both an actress and a person,” Waldorf says. “I couldn’t have tackled the two hardest roles I’ve ever had without their support. Mrs. Thompson is, in every way, supportive and understanding and sees the potential in every person. She pushes us to be the best we can be. I owe everything to her!” “Our goal was to move the audience, and we did,” Thompson says. “Aedin and Brennan were able to walk on stage, stay in the world they created, and deliver believable characters. They were living the parts — they wanted to portray people that the audience could connect with. Both were able to create moments that took the air out of the room.” FBCA brought home numerous other awards from the District competition this year as well: juniors Jessica Crocker and Audrey Hodson won All-Star Crew; seniors Riley Cargile and Damisi Akinpelu won Honorable Mention Acting Cast; and senior Brandon Wood and junior Sam Farah won All-Star Acting Cast. Damisi Akinpelu and Riley Cargile won Honorable Mention at the 2019 TAPPS OneAct District competition for their roles in The Diviners. “These actors are beyond dedicated — it’s a true passion for them,” Thompson says. “It was all about being a team. Everyone gave 100 percent in every rehearsal, crew included. There was constant support and constructive criticism for everyone involved in every role to be better. Everyone was open to working the hardest they ever had to create something beautiful.” The top two schools winning district advance to the
The Cast and Crew of FBCA’s The Diviners, TAPPS 2019 One-Act District Champion.
Damisi Akinpelu and Riley Cargile received Honorable Mention at the 2019 TAPPS One-Act District competition for their roles in The Diviners State competition, which is held in Kerrville, TX at the Cailloux Theatre. In 2019, though FBCA didn’t win it all at State, Waldorf, Vacek and Wood were awarded Honorable Mentions in Acting, and Farah won All-Star Acting Cast. For 2018’s The Scent of Jasmine, Waldorf and Danielle Galatoire received AllStar Cast; Asher Ajim and Pozzi received Honorable Mention Cast; and Gabby
Pardede received All-Star Crew. Additionally in 2018 at District, Damisi Akinpelu and Tolu Asade won Honorable Mention, Danielle Galatoire and Asher Ajim won All-Star Cast, and Paige Estes won AllStar Crew Award. In November 2016, FBCA did win the highest award for the first time in history. Their outstanding performance of Twelve Angry Jurors, a play about a jury forced to reconsider its nearly unanimous
decision, earned them the title of State TAPPS One-Act Play Champions. Fort Bend Christian Academy exists to glorify God through excellence in collegepreparatory Christian education. It is the mission of Fort Bend Christian Academy to equip students to thrive spiritually, academically, socially and physically. For more information about FBCA, visit https://www.fortbendchristian.org.
NEWS Restaurant partners, packaging company world.” The Sugar Land Legacy Foundation Board of Direcreceive Sugar Land Legacy Awards tors selected recipients from nominations based on their commitment, business experience, tenure, service and leadership in Sugar Land. Director of Economic Development Elizabeth Huff said during the event, “Every day, you make our community a better place to live, work and play – and it is truly a privilege for us to get to work alongside you to help your businesses thrive in Sugar Land.” The award announcements were followed by a keynote speech by City Manager Allen Bogard. Bogard is retiring early next year after nearly 20 years as the city’s chief executive. In his remarks, Bog-
The Organization Legacy Award went to Accredo Packaging Inc. Pictured (front row, L-R) are Malcolm Cohn, Priscilla Nguyen, Steven Nguyen, Tom Nguyen, Maria Nguyen, David Bertelsman. (back row) Bill Furlong, Scott Renfrew, Jeff Heaslip, Eric Zollinger, Patrick Nguyen and Johnny Dye. The Sugar Land Legacy Foundation presented the Sugar Land Legacy Awards to restaurant partners Robert White and Victor Litwinenko at the Leadership and Legacy Luncheon, on Dec. 10 at the Hyatt Sugar Land. The city of Sugar Land, in partnership with the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation, hosted its fourth annual business appreciation event. The luncheon celebrated the outstanding performance, leadership, and contributions of Sugar Land’s diverse business community. The Legacy Foundation awards recognize individuals and organizations that have made significant, lasting impacts on economic development and overall prosperity in Sugar Land. This year, the individual award was presented to restaurant partners Robert White and Victor Litwinenko. They have created several unique and successful restaurants during the last 15 years that are original to Sugar Land Town Square – Japaneiro’s Sushi Bistro & Latin Grill, Jupiter Pizza & Waffles Co., Original Poketo and Guru
Burgers & Crepes. Their restaurants have contributed significantly to the development of Town Square as a vibrant destination for employees, visitors and residents. “Robert and Victor have introduced an exciting and innovative flair to the restaurant scene in Sugar Land,” said Legacy Foundation President Sunny Sharma. “They bring a diverse array of food to our community and exemplify what it means to be a strong leader in our business community.” The duo also place importance on being local and supporting community philanthropic causes such as the local schools, Gigi’s Playhouse, and other local nonprofits. Robert White emphasized their desire to give locally saying, “We feel a deep sense of belonging here and we don’t plan on going anywhere else.” For the organization award, the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation recognized Accredo Packaging, Inc., a familyowned manufacturer and supplier of high-quality flexible packaging for consumer products. The Nguyen Family,
owners of Accredo Packaging, have an inspiring story. As described by Tom Nguyen, Chief Operating Officer, the Nguyen family moved to America with nothing after the fall of Saigon in 1975. They worked hard and at first built a company that manufactured and supplied grocery bags to supermarkets. Then in 2009, “another opportunity came to us to diversify into flexible packaging,” shared Nguyen, and Accredo Packaging, Inc. was born. The company chose Sugar Land to build their operations and is now celebrating its third expansion with a new 200,000 sqft building in early 2020. The expansion will result in a $200 million investment and 150 new jobs, making Accredo one of Sugar Land’s top 10 employers with more than 500 jobs and one of the largest production facilities in the area. “Accredo has continued to grow and expand as a thriving global company,” said Sharma. “Their products cross international borders, and we are fortunate that they choose Sugar Land to connect the
Refugee
President Trump’s executive order on refugee resettlement and the U.S. Department of State’s recent attempt to implement that order’s consent requirement. The President’s executive order, they argue, would threaten to erode the decadesold refugee relocation system established by the U.S. Congress, which provides for the effective resettlement of refugees and assists them in achieving economic selfsufficiency. Further, the co-filers argue that the Refugee Act does not grant the President the authority to give states or their local governments the ability to veto the initial placement of refugees within their jurisdictions. To the contrary, the federal requirement to seek additional consent from county authorities undermines state sovereignty and runs contrary to one of the purposes of the Refugee Act - namely to give states a greater voice in making recommendations about refugee placement. From the date of arrival, the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), within the HHS Administration for Children and Families (ACF), provides time-limited cash and medical assistance to refugees and all other eligible populations. Currently, ORR provides cash and medical assistance for up to eight months, and social services for up to 60 months, assisting a total eligible population of almost 500,000 individuals across
the country. In the coming year, ORR is projecting to assist the following new arrivals: 18,000 refugees as indicated in the FY 2020 Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions, as well as 45,000 asylees, 16,000 Cuban and Haitian entrants, 10,000 SIVs, and approximately 1,000 victims of trafficking. The United States expects to receive more than 368,000 new refugees and asylum claims in fiscal year (FY) 2020 – continuing its generous record of providing humanitarian protections. This includes a proposed 18,000 refugees and more than 350,000 individuals in new asylum cases. According to the ORR, the President’s order will ensure that refugees are placed in an environment in which they will have the greatest opportunities to thrive, prosper, and contribute to their new American community. At President Trump’s direction, refugees will be resettled in jurisdictions where both State and local governments consent to receive them. “Working with State and local governments on resettlement will ensure communities without the resources or capacity for refugee resettlement do not face this burden. This Executive Order will also have the benefit of increasing transparency into our Nation’s current refugee resettlement operations,” according to the ORR.
From Page 1
aimed at driving down refugee admission rates and dismantling the refugee resettlement infrastructure. As a result of these efforts, the United States did not come close to meeting the annual refugee admissions goal for fiscal year 2018, which was already the lowest in the history of the United States’ refugee resettlement program. Of the 45,000 admissions slots created by the Presidential Determination for fiscal year 2018, less than half that number of refugees were in fact admitted. Processing times for refugees seeking to be reunited with family members through the follow-to-join program also slowed to a near standstill. As the end of fiscal year 2019 approached, the Administration announced it would propose yet another record-low refugee admissions goal of only 18,000. This represents less than one-fifth of the average (95,000) of all annual refugee admission goals set by previous presidents since the enactment of the Refugee Act in 1980,” the petitioners said. Meanwhile, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, and Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh are leading a coalition of 12 attorneys general in an amicus brief seeking to block
INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 25, 2019 • Page 3
Individual Legacy Award winners Litwinenko and White. ard reflected on the immense to achieve success for Sugar growth of Sugar Land dur- Land’s next 60 years. ing its first 60 years as a city For more information about and how the city and busi- the Sugar Land Legacy Founness community must come dation visit www.sugarlandletogether to work in new ways gacy.org.
Sugar Land recognized for Performance Management Leadership The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) awarded the city of Sugar Land a Certificate of Distinction for promoting transparency and accountability, data-informed decision-making and citizen engagement efforts. Sugar Land was one of only 63 jurisdictions throughout the country to receive an award for data-driven management and reporting and one of only 19 in the Certificate of Distinction category. Industry experts evaluated initiatives to collect and verify data to ensure reliability; train staff in performance measurement; and report data to the public through budgets, newsletters and/ or information provided to elected officials. The city’s emphasis on providing comparative and benchmarking information to the public and the use of performance data in strategic planning and operational decision-making is consistent with the Sugar Land Way. Part of the Sugar Land Way is being responsive to the needs of residents and ensuring they can easily access information, data and services that improve their quality of life. It’s a commitment to bold and thoughtful thinking designed to make life sweeter and more refined for the people and businesses that call Sugar Land home. An example of Sugar Land’s commitment to performance management leadership is an innovative goal measures dashboard that serves as an account of the city’s performance on 30 key operations. It’s an online tool that educates residents on the city’s performance, identifies areas of operational improvement, assists city management and elected officials in making data-driven decisions on key priority areas and enhances government accountability and transparency. Learn more at www.sugarlandtx.gov/GoalMeasures. “This award is proof that we’re meeting the needs of our residents and fostering the development of a performance culture throughout our organizations,” said City Manager Allen Bogard. “It’s yet one more example that demonstrates the Sugar Land Way is made possible through good governance practices, a business-like approach to decision-making, community listening and responding to the needs of our community.” For more about the city’s transparency efforts, visual communications and citizen-based data performance initiatives, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/OPA.
OakBend Medical Center names Physician of the Year
Dr. Long Cao with Joe Freudenberger, CEO OakBend Medical Center Dr. Long Cao, M.D., FACC has received the 2019 Physician of the Year Award from OakBend Medical Center. The other nominees were Dr. David Chao and Dr. Chris Chen. The Physician of the Year award, OakBend’s highest recognition, is presented annually to one outstanding physician who possesses significant practice experience, compassion, kindness and sincerity that translates not only to their patients, but to their nurses and other staff members that work closely with them. These physicians look and act professional at all times and are a role model both professionally and personally. According to Joe Freudenberger, CEO of OakBend Medical Center, “Dr. Cao is excellent at making the complex simple.
He is the ultimate team player and is there for all events and participates.” Dr. Long Cao was born in Vietnam and raised in Houston. With the support and encouragement of his parents, his lifelong dream of being a physician became a reality. Cao graduated magna cum laude from Baylor University and is a medical graduate of the University of Texas. He completed his residency training at Baylor College of Medicine and his Cardiology Fellowship in North Carolina. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease. He is also certified in Echocardiography, Nuclear Cardiology and Vascular Interpretation. With a passion for teaching, Dr. Cao was an Associate
Professor for Medicine and a public speaker where he enjoys speaking on cardiac disease and cardiac prevention awareness. A father of three, Dr. Cao enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, traveling and painting. He speaks English, Vietnamese and Spanish. Accepting the award, Cao stated, “I never expected this, especially knowing Dr. Chen and Dr. Chao, they are way more deserving of this. I didn’t expect this yet; I wanted to work toward it. I saw Dr. Ceballos and Dr. Aly had received this award and I always wanted to work up to it and to be deserving of it. Now that I have received this, I’m going to keep working hard and make sure I deserve it.”
INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 25, 2019 • Page 4
CITY OF MISSOURI CITY- YEAR IN REVIEW Residents, stakeholders, partners and staff celebrated a prosperous year in Missouri City as economic development soared, local subdivisions remained among the safest communities in the nation, fiscal stewardship set high standards of excellence, events held citywide hosted a record number of attendees, and strategic initiatives set the City up for long-term success. “The success stories from this past year show why Missouri City is highly-regarded across the region,” said City Manager Anthony J. Snipes, who was recognized in November by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) with the “Credentialed Manager” designation for his extensive public administration service and expertise including leadership initiatives in the “Show Me City.” “We are very proud to serve our residents and we want them to have the best qualityof-life as possible,” added Snipes, who was also inducted into the 2018 Class of Fellows for the National Academy of Public Administration. 2019 was also the first full year of City Council leadership for Mayor Yolanda Ford. Her role included presiding over Special and Regular Meetings, Serving as Chair of the 14city Metro Coalition, building new partnerships to help drive growth and development, and working with an array of community leaders and partners to expand the City’s brand. “Moving the City forward continues to be the priority with an emphasis on strategic initiatives that will generate new revenue sources, create new partnership opportunities and expand our reputation as a safe, scenic municipality to potential new homeowners and business owners,” Ford said. “As we continue to grow, balance will be important to ensure we make the best decisions in the interest of our engaged citizenry.”
Other Councilmembers who are striving to achieve these goals with Mayor Ford include Cheryl Sterling (District A), Jeffrey Boney (District B), Anthony Maroulis (District C), Floyd Emery (District D), Vashaundra Edwards (AtLarge Position #1), and Mayor Pro Tem Chris Preston (AtLarge Position #2). “Through our working relationship with Council, staff has successfully executed business plan projects throughout the year,” Snipes said. “We look forward to working with the Members in the coming year as we strive to improve efficiencies across all operations.” Take a look back at some 2019 highlights below: Recognitions The City received news of being: Ranked as No. 30 in a list of 136 Texas cities rated by Alarms.org, the official site of the National Council for Home Safety and Security—an association of licensed alarm companies, installers, contractors and trade groups. Listed at No. 42 among all cities rated and at No. 5 among cities with a population of 50,000 or more by Home Security Advisor, an online resource website. Learn more: http://bit.ly/2TEOZ7T Named to the list of “Greenest Cities in Texas” by Just Energy, a multinational energy and gas company with its U.S. headquarters based in Houston. MCTX came in at number 17 on the list, which is the fourth-highest ranking in the region. Named to the list of the “Best Cities to Live in Texas, 2019” by Chamber of Commerce, an online organization that assists with the longevity of small businesses. Missouri City came in at number 13 on the list, which is the thirdhighest ranking in the region. Named as one of the “Lone Star State’s safest communities” in a comprehensive study conducted by Background
Checks.org, using recent FBI crime statistics. MCTX is one of only two Fort Bend County municipalities to be featured by the online resource, earning the No. 53 spot on the list of 141 Texas cities rated. Earning its 31st consecutive Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for preparing and presenting a budget of the highest quality for Fiscal Year 2019. Earning the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the GFOA for the 37th consecutive year in relation to the comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ending on Sept. 30, 2018. Public Safety Highlights Elected officials, police officers, firefighters and other team members once again participated in the National Night Out initiative on Tuesday, Oct. 1 as residents citywide hosted block parties to showcase their support of our first responders. About 20 citizens graduated from the 2019 Citizens’ Police & Fire Academy. Learn more: http://bit.ly/2ke1k2G The Missouri City Police Department launched the Police Explorers program, which was created to teach teenagers from local high schools the what, why’s and how’s police officers perform in public safety careers. Currently, there are 11 participants. The DDACTS initiative, used by MCPD to combat Part I crimes and crashes, is still being utilized and is showing success in reducing crime and crashes. Saluted honorary Police Officer Abigail Arias who waged a brave fight against cancer and inspired thousands with her courage and determination. Code Enforcement staff collaborated with WCA Waste Corp. and the Nuisance Abatement Committee to facilitate the Barker Street neighbor-
A Royal Breakfast offers an opportunity for families to enjoy pancakes and juice, and take pictures with their favorite characters from the play on January 4 from 8-10 a.m in the B.F. Terry Cafeteria. Tickets are available at RangerStageCompany.weebly.com.
2019 was a busy year in Missouri City, with groundbreakings, family activities and the opening of a new skatepark. hood cleanup. They successful- lights citywide to allow the con- which allowed businesses to ly solicited donations of paint, version from traditional High learn about the registration procleaning supplies and minor Pressure Sodium (HPS) lighting cess to become a City vendor tools from area businesses to be fixtures to LED fixtures. and also learned how to place utilized in neighborhood cleanThe City, in partnership with bids for City projects. ups and distributed to citizens the Missouri City Parks FounCelebrated Public Adminin need. dation, hosted the groundbreak- istration Day on Oct. 2 by The Small Unmanned Aerial ing ceremony for the MCTX hosting Fort Bend Independent System (sUAS) program is in Veterans Memorial on Monday, School District high school place and has assisted in several Nov. 11. sophomores, juniors and sesearch, rescue and recovery niors. They shadowed staff to missions in the area. MCPD is Events learn about various civil sercurrently the only police agency Hosted the 5th annual Black vice careers. in Fort Bend County that has a History Month Celebration Welcomed professionals program of this type. featuring a Youth Poetry Slam from across the country at the The Missouri City Fire & moderated by Self the Poet, Art- Fourth Annual Leadership Rescue Services maintained its ists Ted Ellis & Amy Cassidy, NOW Symposium to provide ISO 1 rating, and is among 67 Comedians Ali Siddiq & Se7en, ethics training and leadership out of 2,852 cities in Texas and cultural food and music, paint- seminars for municipal emamong 348 out of 41,177 cities ers Ted Ellis and Amy Cassidy ployees and managers. nationwide to attain the rate. and historian Sam Collins III on Welcomed the community Also in FY19, Fire responded Feb. 13, 15 and 16. on Oct. 5 for the Fourth Annual to 6,933 calls, hosted two fire Hosted the 23rd annual Dad Community Night Out festival. station open houses with more & Daughter Dance on Feb. 9 than 400 attendees, coordinated for a Hollywood-themed night Milestones safety presentations for 20 of fun. Quail Valley Golf Course schools/daycares reaching more Hosted four Council District broke its record for most golfthan 1,700 students, maintained Community meetings to share ers in one day by having play collaborations with numerous key operational updates within from 411 registered golfers on organizations and renovated the respective communities in April 19, breaking the previous facility areas in Fire Stations those areas. record (410) which was set in 1, 3 and 4. Held the 12th annual Tree 2018. In addition, MCFRS estab- Planting Competition at BufMCTX resident Richard lished a new Smoke Detector falo Run Park on Feb. 9 in Brown III became the first Afri(Blitz) Program in partnership partnership with the Houston can-American to earn the PGA with the Red Cross, to provide Area Urban Forestry Council, Master Professional designafire safety checks and free CenterPoint Energy, Trees for tion. He is 1 of only 372 golfers smoke detector installations. Houston, Texas A&M Forest to achieve this level since the The team conducted three blitz Service and Living Earth. program began in 1969. campaigns and installed more Hosted the first annual MothThe 2018-2019 Citizens’ than 100 smoke detectors. And, er Son Challenge on April 13. University program ended with the team initiated the design Hosted the inaugural MCTX another success. Graduation phase of the future Fire Sta- Family Fest on May 4. took place on May 21 when tion 6. Hosted the third annual students received their cusMother’s Day Cake Decorat- tomized #MCTX street signs Key Projects ing event on May 12 and an and shared fond memories and The new MCTX Skatepark inaugural Veterans Salute on experiences from the program. opened to the public on Satur- Dec. 10 as part of the LeaderCommunications rebranded day, March 30 at Community ship Luncheon Series. the bi-weekly video series “In Park, 1700 Glenn Lakes Lane. Hosted the annual 4th of July The News” featuring key upThe City hosted a ground- celebration at Buffalo Run Park dates in the community. The breaking ceremony for Phase on July 4 with entertainment, first was published in June. II construction of the Regional activities, food and a spectacuThrough the HOA (homeSurface Water Treatment Plant lar firework show. owners’ association) Liaison on Monday, May 13. The facilLaunched the successful program, Communications also ity is the City’s largest Capital #ClearTheShelters adoption attended 60 meetings, and 41 Improvement Project to-date. event and received regional community events. The team The team successfully complet- coverage. also handled more than 82 ed a Reuse Pilot Filter project in Held the 2019 MCTX Sym- reservations for City facilities March 2019, and as such a new posium on Aug. 21, which was a and helped to mitigate more reuse filter is being added to the public input workshop and over than 600 issues/concerns durRSWTP as part of the expan- 200 residents and stakeholders ing the year. sion. Upon completion, this will visited with staff about municiThe City hosted a celebraresult in reusing up to one (1) pal programs/services and pro- tion for the new “Pursue Your million gallons per day of water vided feedback on operations. Passion” sculpture on Oct. 6, for potential irrigation use. Hosted the annual Oktober- located on Independence BouThe City Manager’s Of- fest on Sep. 21 in partnership levard between FM 1092 and fice, working with Parks & with Texas Biergarten and Fifth Street. Recreation, rolled out a new Texas Leaguer Brewery. The Junior Team Tennis that “Show Me City” initiative— Hosted the annual MCTX represents the United States #PlayItForward—that is in Job Fair, as part of the Leader- Tennis Association Texas secplace to not only celebrate the ship Luncheon Series, on Sept. tion won second place in the Inoutdoors, but to also build the 24; more than 30 organizations termediate division at the 2019 future of outdoor life. participated in the annual event, USTA Junior Team Tennis 14U The Public Works Depart- and the diversity of industries National Championship in San ment launched a new travel map included Finance, Banking, Antonio. in August, 2019 that shares a Education, Restaurant, TransMonthly memberships at view of traffic patterns on the portation, Law Enforcement the Recreation & Tennis CenCity’s website. and more. ter reached a total of 1,505 in As part of the City’s EnHosted the annual “Doing October 2019, breaking the ergy Saving’s initiative project, Business with the City” work- previous September 2018 reNORESCO is currently in the shop, as part of the Leadership cord of 1,361. process of retrofitting street Luncheon Series on Sep. 24, The Tennis program, within the Recreation Division, obtained 3 grants: a $10,000 grant from USTA to resurface the tennis courts at the Recreation & Tennis Center, a $200 Adult 10701 Corporate Drive, #377, Stafford, TX 77477 Social Play grant to cover cost Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77487 of food and drinks for tennis players and a $600 grant for www.fbindependent.com Seshadri Kumar the Adaptive Tennis program. Publisher & Editor 832-586-5741 Glen Martel took flight in Fort Bend Independent, (USPS 025-572) is published every “Show Me City” as the new Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Assistant City Manager and he Independent, LLC., 10701 Corporate Dr., #377, Stafford, Texas oversees Public Works, Devel77477. Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas. opment Services, and Parks & POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, Recreation. (Source: MCTX P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487. Communications Dept.)
INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 25, 2019 • Page 5
NEWS Ft Bend County Law Library celebrates 30 years with open house
Teen volunteers from the Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program led the stations with activities for children 3-7 years old at Reindeer Boot Camp at the Rosenberg Railroad Museum.
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Law Library, located in the Fort Bend County Justice Center in Richmond, will celebrate its 30th Anniversary with an Open House on Friday, January 10, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The public is invited to enjoy light refreshments, tour the library, and attend demonstrations of the library’s database resources. The schedule of programs and demonstrations is as follows: •10:00 am – Westlaw Training and CLE •11:00 am – Estate-Planning, presented by Kerri Graham •1:00 pm – Re:Search Texas Training Because seating is limited, registration is required to attend the programs. Participants may register on the library’s online calendar (www. fortbend.lib.tx.us), or by calling the library (281-3413718). Registration is NOT required for the Open House. The Fort Bend County Law Library provides support for the research, reference, and educational needs of the legal community – including litigants, attorneys, judges, and county officials – as well as the general public. The library has a good working collection
of basic legal materials, for inlibrary use only. Most of the Law Library’s print collection consists of reference sources on Texas statutes and case law; U.S. Supreme Court case law and federal statutes; a wide selection of Texas practice guides and forms manuals; and other research materials, including legal encyclopedias, state case-law digests, and federal practice guides. In addition to the Law Library’s print collection, a number of legal research resources -- such as the Westlaw Next, Lexis/Shepard’s, and Hein Online databases – can be accessed on the library’s computers. Free classes are available on the use of these electronic resources. The Law Library had its beginnings in 1989, when Fort Bend County Commissioners Court ordered the establishment and maintenance of a County Law Library in Richmond. The Commissioners Court authorized the Fort Bend County Bar Association to contract with Fort Bend County Libraries for the administrative operations of the County Law Library, effective January 1, 1990. Funding for the Law Library’s operations comes from
Free Legal Info Resources
Fort Bend County Libraries’ Law Librarian, Andrew Bennett, will present a series of “Pro Se Basics” demonstrations of the informational legal resources that are available to the public at the Fort Bend County Law Library. The introductory classes will take place on Tuesdays January 7, 14, 21, and 28, from 10:00 to 11:00 am, in Conference Room C of the library, located in Room 20714 in the Fort Bend County Justice Center. The classes will introduce important procedural information for self-represented litigants who wish to begin their legal research, represent themselves in court, or seek resources for their Family Law or Probate issues. Individuals may choose to attend individual sessions or the whole series. The material that will be discussed is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of an attorney. Librarians cannot provide legal advice or recommend specific forms. The January schedule is as follows: •January 7 – “Courthouse 101.” Self-represented litigants will get a basic introduction to the legal system. Learn about the difference between civil and criminal cases, the basic parts of a legal document, the different types of legal documents, and where to file legal documents. Gain a better understanding of the differences between district courts, county courts, and justice of the peace courts, learn how they interact with each other, and how individuals might be involved with the courts. •January 14 – “Courthouse 102.” This class covers the introduction to civil litigation after the answer phase, including discovery, trial, and post-trial. Learn about resources that can be used to address these issues, and become aware of various problems that could arise. •January 21 -- “Resources in Your Family-Law Case.” Learn about the resources that are available in the Law Library for family-law cases, as well as free online resources. Get tips on using the library’s catalog to find resources throughout the library system, and hear about the library’s online databases that can be accessed from home. •January 28 -- “Resources for Your Probate Issue.” Learn about the resources that are available in the Law Library for probate cases, as well as free online resources. Get tips on using the library’s catalog to find resources throughout the library system, and hear about the library’s online databases that can be accessed from home. The classes are free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and registration is required. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Events,” select “Law Library,” and find the program. Participants may also register by calling the Law Library at 281-341-3718. The series will continue in February.
filing fees in civil cases in the district or county courts, as provided by Texas Local Government Code. The Law Library is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of a Law Library Committee appointed by the Fort Bend County Bar Association and current officers of the Bar Association. The open house is free and open to the public. For more information, see the Fort Bend County Libraries website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), or call the Law Library (281341-3718) or the library system’s Communications Office (281-633-4734). The Law Library is located in the Fort Bend County Justice Center at 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 20714, in Richmond.
Youth in Philanthropy help make Reindeer Boot Camp a Success The Rosenberg Railroad Museum held its first annual Reindeer Boot Camp on Saturday, December 14th. The weather was a bit warm for Santa and his “reindeer in training” but everyone had a great time. The idea was to create a fun event with activity stations for children 3-7 years old. Teen volunteers from the Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program led the stations. Participants practiced walking “up on the housetop”, tossing packages into the chimney, galloping through the snow, and completing other stations aimed at improving strength
and agility – much like the skills needed by Santa’s reindeer on Christmas Eve. Executive Director, Tracy Hobdy, said, “We are so happy to partner with YIP again this year. The students that come out and volunteer their time are always a joy to work with! And YIP is an outstanding program that the Museum is proud to be a part of.” Each year, junior and seniors from Fort Bend County learn about area non-profits and develop leadership skills while also providing community service. “In the past, we have had the YIP students help with maintenance and landscape
ANDY MEYERS
projects, paint classrooms and work on the Garden Railroad. This year, we wanted them to interact with Museum guests and help our staff provide a fun experience!” Santa even made an appearance and joined in the activities! Donna Wheeler, the Museum’s Education Coordinator said, “We are always looking to provide new and interesting activities, and this is one we will repeat next year!” The Rosenberg Railroad Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and education of railroading history in Fort Bend County.
INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 25, 2019 • Page 6
AUTOMOBILE: Lexus ES 350 & F Sport By BARBARA FULENWIDER After nearly 30 years of success, the seventh-generation Lexus ES 350 has redefined its status. Well known for its comfort, refinement and luxury appointments, the Lexus ES has an all-new chassis that allows for a more dynamic exterior design and features a long, wide stance and a sleek, coupe-like silhouette inherited from flagship LS. With first-of-a-kind technology and a potent engine, it is the most advanced ES ever. It has also been redesigned to be longer, lower and wider and now has a sporty showoff in its midst -- the ES F Sport. It has a 3.6-liter V8 that makes 302 hp and 267 lb-ft torque and goes with an 8 speed automatic transmission. Yes, paddle shifters are mounted on the steering wheel, the sport seats hold one in place and the dead pedal is metal.
CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given, that by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 240TH District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas on October 22, 2019 in cause numbered 18-DCV-253387 styled NEW TERRITORY RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION INC. vs. Emma M. Purvey, in which a judgment was rendered on February 26, 2019 in favor of NEW TERRITORY RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION INC. for the sum of Fourteen Thousand Five Hundred Seventy Nine Dollars and Fifteen Cents ($14,579.15); plus fees for posting notice of sale, publishing, costs of suit rendered by the court, legal fees, and all costs of executing this Writ. I have levied upon the below listed property on November 14, 2019 and will on January 7, 2020 Tuesday, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the Right, Title, and Interest of Emma M. Purvey to and in the following described Real Property LOT TWENTY ONE (21), IN BLOCK TWO (2), NEW TERRITORY PARCEL SF-37, A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NOS. 1571/A OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 1111 KERRI COURT, SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479 The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of NEW TERRITORY RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION INC. Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof. LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG 1ST FLOOR MEETING ROOM 301 JACKSON RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: January 7, 2020 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 am BY: Dep. Steele TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas
The newly introduced ES F Sport starts with a grille that borrows directly from the LS flagship and has a mesh pattern interlocking “L”s with a jet black finish and dark trim. The trunk lid got a spoiler and dark accents along the taillights and lower valance add more subtle indications of its sporting nature. A wide array of wheel designs starts with the standard 17-inch wheel with a split five-spoke with dark silver accents and a machined finish. The ES F Sport model gets 19-inch wheels highlighted by a dark premium graphite coating. There is also a larger 18-inch 10-spoke wheel with the same color design and is available with the Premium and Luxury packages. An additional 18-inch split fivespoke wheel is available with luxury packages and features a multi-spoke design with a
CITY OF STAFFORD Ordinance No. 1156 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF STAFFORD, TEXAS, AMENDING SEC. 70-8 “MISCELLANEOUS SIGN PROVISIONS” OF CHAPTER 70 “SIGNS” OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF STAFFORD; REPEALING SECTION 70-8 (b) “POLITICAL SIGNS” OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF STAFFORD; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES AND PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; PROVIDING A PENALTY IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $2,000 FOR EACH DAY OF VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF; PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY. PASSED AND APPROVED THIS 18TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2019. TOMIKA R. LEWIS, TRMC, CPM CITY SECRETARY
CITY OF STAFFORD Ordinance No. 1155 AN ORDINANCE amending CHAPTER 82 “SUBDIVISIONS” OF THE CITY OF STAFFORD CODE OF ORDINANCES BY AMENDING ARTICLES I “IN GENERAL”, II “PROCEDURE FOR SUBMISSION OF PLATS”, iii DESIGN STANDARDS AND iv “SPECIAL PROVISIONS” OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF STAFFORD; PROVIDING FOR A FINE IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $2,000 FOR A VIOLATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH; and providing an effective date. PASSED AND APPROVED THIS 20TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2019. TOMIKA R. LEWIS, TRMC, CPM CITY SECRETARY
includes the instrument panel that features a large analog tachometer, digital speedometer and easy-to-read multiinformation display. Standard models use a 7-inch screen while the F-Sport display is 8-inches and features a movable center ring similar to the one used in the LC. Hit a button on the steering wheel and the ring slides over to open up more space for multi-information. Cargo room has been increased to 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space and an optional
Rate increases approved by Sugar Land City Council in September will appear on January water bills -- resulting in an increase to residents of approximately $5 per month, depending on water usage. The city’s utility system is self-supporting, and no property taxes are spent on
NOTICE OF ESTABLISHMENT OF ADDITIONAL
The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, January 14, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Veranda, Section 26, Precinct 1.
OUT-OF-DISTRICT MEETING PLACE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF FORT BEND COUNTY LEVEE IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. 17 To the residents and taxpayers of Fort Bend County Levee Improvement District No. 17 (the “District”), and to all the persons interested in the meetings of the Board of Directors of such District: Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the District, at a meeting held December 12, 2019, established an additional meeting place outside the boundaries of the District at Fluor Corporation, 1 Fluor Daniel Dr, Sugar Land, TX 77478 and inside the District at Hilton Garden Inn, 722 Bonaventure Way, Sugar Land, TX 77479. Said meeting places are hereby declared to be a public places and open to the public. All residents and taxpayers of the District and all other interested persons are hereby invited to attend any meetings of the Board of Directors at such location and other locations previously established by the Board of Directors as meeting places of the District.
The hearing will be held in the Commissioners Courtroom at 401 Jackson Street, Second Floor, Richmond, Texas. You are invited to attend and state your approval or objection on this matter.
Submitted by,
Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk
CITY OF STAFFORD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the City of Stafford Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas and before the City Council of the City of Stafford, Texas on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas for the purpose of receiving testimony for and against the following: An ordinance amending Chapter 102 of the Code of Ordinances, the same being the City’s Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, to rezone +/- 35.21 acres of land from the PC, Primary Corridor Zoning District to PD, Planned Development Zoning District for the subject property located at 13223 Murphy Road, Stafford, TX. All residents of the City of Stafford and other interested parties are invited to attend and will be given the opportunity to be heard.
hands-free trunk opener was added to make loading cargo easier. Staying connected is important so the new ES is the first Lexus product to offer Apple Car Play which lets drivers control their iPhones through the dashboard display screen or with Siri Eyes Free voice control. ES models with the optional 12.3-inch navigation display also get CarPlay. The ES is also Amazon Alexa-enabled, so drivers with Android phones can use natural language commands to
control a variety of functions. A 10-speaker Pioneer audio system comes standard on all models while a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system is available as an option. With all of that written, it’s only fair to say the Lexus ES has become an even more wonderful vehicle that rides and drives like a dream. If you want a sporty vehicle, the new F Sport will have you singing. It comes in at $44,835 and with options got up to $51,890, including delivery, etc.
Planned utility rate increases in Sugar Land set for Jan. 1
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
FORT BEND COUNTY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION PROPOSED SERVICE CHANGES EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 3, 2020 The public is invited and encouraged to comment on proposed services changes to Fort Bend County Public Transportation’s (FBCPT) services. FBCPT is proposing four service changes to increase the effectiveness and utilization of services currently offered to the public, as described below. 1. Galleria Route to Fort Bend and the Texas Medical Center (TMC) Route to Fort Bend There have been several changes to the pick-up and drop-off times as well as name stop changes. 2. All Commuter Services – The Texas Medical Center, Greenway Plaza, and Galleria routes will include a stop at the HWY 36 (Fairgrounds) Park & Ride for both AM and PM routes. To view the detailed proposed schedules for items #1 and #2, visit our website at www.FBCTransit.org. 3. Richmond/Rosenberg Point Deviation Route – The current circulatory route will be eliminated and replaced with three Demand Response vehicles that will service the Richmond and Rosenberg area only. Ridership data indicates clients prefer to schedule a ride and have the bus pick them up from their location rather than walking up to three quarters of a mile to a bus stop and waiting for the bus. Removing the fixed pick-up locations will allow an increase in ridership. The public comment period is your opportunity to provide comments on the above service changes. Throughout the comment period, written comments and/or requests for public meeting/hearing and questions may be submitted to Tennille Jones, Community Relations Manager, 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, TX 77469, or via email to Transit@fortbendcountytx.gov. Comments/requests will be accepted until Friday, January 24, 2020, at 5 p.m. If no changes are made as a result of public comments received, the service changes will take effect on February 3, 2020.
/s/ Tomika Lewis City Secretary
high-gloss finish. The engineering team turned a sedan known primarily for comfort and quietness into one that delivers a fundamentally higher level of performance than any of its predecessors and got a new chassis that has reduced noise and vibrations. The team also designed a suspension that delivers more comfort and precise handling. In front it has independent MacPherson struts with coil springs, gas-pressurized shock absorbers and stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is multilink with trailing arm. All versions of the ES offer Eco, Normal, Sport modes while AVS-equipped cars replace Sport mode with Sport S and add Sport S+ and Custom. The ES also got a larger information display within the driver’s sight line. This
/s/NG Fook (Francis) Ming Secretary, Board of Directors
7,036+/- sf Missouri City Home
the system. Sugar Land has not increased surface water rates since 2014, and water and wastewater rates have not increased since 2011. A 5 percent rate increase for water and wastewater and 10 percent for surface water were approved through the fee ordinance. The requirement to convert 60 percent of total water demand to alternative or non-groundwater supplies by 2025 is an unfunded mandate of the Fort Bend Subsidence District Regulatory Plan. The city formed the Integrated Water Resource Plan (IWRP) Citizen Task Force in 2017 to identify the most appropriate ways to meet the mandate that best fit the Sugar Land community’s vision for the future. This led to City Council’s approval of the IWRP this year. Residential water is billed with a monthly service charge plus volumetric charges based on water used. Wastewater is billed with a monthly service charge plus volume based on the winter average -- calculated based on water usage from the most recent February and March bills. Residents can influence future wastewater charges by avoiding outdoor watering during the months of January through March. The new winter average will take effect on the April bill. “Even though these increases are necessary as the city prepares to meet the 60 percent groundwater reduction mandate, winter is a great time to check for water leaks to minimize future bills,” said Director of Finance Jennifer Brown. Residents will also see a 47 cent increase to the solid waste portion of their bill, based on a 2.5 percent CPI increase included in the city’s contract with Republic Services. The new monthly solid waste charge is $19.38 plus tax, with no changes to solid waste and recycling services. As the city implements the IWRP recommendations and prepares to meet the 60 percent groundwater reduction mandate, future increases will be needed due to the amount of infrastructure investment required to serve the city’s water supply needs. A utility rate study is funded in this year’s budget to help define a rate structure that best supports the financial sustainability of the water utility system- which is not supported by property taxes. Sugar Land’s water and wastewater rates were approximately 20 percent below the group average in a 2019 survey of peer cities with a population of more than 50,000 -- even compared to cities that don’t have a groundwater reduction mandate. To learn more about utility rates, visit www.sugarlandtx. gov/2020Rates.
Open 1-4pm Sun Jan 5 & 12
MISSOURI CITY, TX • 721 Double Ridge Crossing 4BR 4.5BA 7,036+/- sf single-family. Built in 2005. Approx 2.93ac lot. 3-car attached garage. Sienna Point subdivision. Auctions: 12pm, Wed Jan 15 on site or bid live from anywhere at auctionnetwork.com Prefer Not to Wait for the Auction? Submit a Pre-Auction Offer!
Visit fbindependent.com and browse the Digital Edition.
800.801.8003 • williamsauction.com/TX TX JEFFREY MICHAEL ASHBY RE LIC 550021; THOMAS E. BARNES III AUC LIC 6457. BUYER’S PREMIUM (BUYER’S FEE IN WI) MAY APPLY.
City of Missouri City
CITY OF STAFFORD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
LEGAL NOTICE THIS IS A MANDATED PUBLICATION OF THE LEGAL NOTICE ******* OPENING DATE OF January 14, 2020 AT 2:00 p.m. ******* Request for Qualifications (2) RFQ No. 20-322-“Utility Financial Services” RFQ No. 20-324-“Utility Civil Engineering Services” Responses must be sealed, marked on the outside of the delivery envelope with the RFQ name and number as listed above, and the date of opening. Responses must be delivered to the attention of City of Missouri City Attn: Purchasing Office RFP No. 20-322 RFQ No.20-324 1522 Texas Parkway Missouri City, Texas 77489 Prior to the acceptance deadline. Responses marked improperly and therefore misdirected may be disqualified. Until final award of the contract, the City reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive irregularities or technicalities, to readvertise, or proceed to do the work otherwise when in the best interests of the City. No bid may be withdrawn during the 60 days following the bid opening date.
Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held before the City of Stafford Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas and before the City Council of the City of Stafford, Texas on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chamber, Stafford City Hall, 2610 South Main, Stafford, Texas for the purpose of receiving testimony for and against the following: An ordinance amending Chapter 102 of the Code of Ordinances, the same being the City’s Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, to rezone +/- 13.38 acres of land from the PC, Primary Corridor Zoning District to RCT, Residential, Commercial and Technology District for the subject property located at 10225 Mula Road, Stafford, TX. All residents of the City of Stafford and other interested parties are invited to attend and will be given the opportunity to be heard. /s/ Tomika Lewis City Secretary
INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 25, 2019 • Page 7
Indo American Conservatives of Texas (Iactx.Org) wishes a
Merry Christmas!
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Linda Howell, Chairman, Republican Party of Fort Bend County
Judge Maggie Jaramillo 400th District Court Fort Bend County
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18th January 2020 5:30 – 9:00 pm Safari Texas Ranch 11627 FM-1464 N Richmond, TX 77407
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Featuring “Meet & Greet” with Republican candidates Political candidates can participate by purchasing: Table of 8 for $500 Individual tickets will be $50 Radha Dixit, President: 281-550-7078 Swapan Dhairyawan, Treasurer: 281-382-0348 You can buy tickets for the event by visiting: www.iactx.org/events Contributions or gifts to the Indo-American Conservatives of Texas, Inc. are not tax deductible.
Page 10 • INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 21, 2016 Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • DECEMBER 25, 2019
Merry Christmas
Wishing all Merry Christmas a Merry Christmas! Commissioner Pct. 1 Fort Bend County
Floyd Emery Merry Dist. D Christmas! Councilman Missouri City
Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert
Happy Thanksgiving Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas
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Andy Meyers
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Brazos Professional Building
Wishing all a Merry Christmas!
Judge Jim Shoemake Merry Christmas 434th District Court
Frank J Fraley Fort Bend County 240th District Court
Paid for by the Judge Jim Shoemake Campaign, Larry Morris Treasurer, 3202 Robinson Road, Missouri City, Texas 77459. In compliance with the Voluntary Limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.
Judge
Andy Meyers Andy Meyers Commissioner Richmond, Texas Commissioner Precinct 3 Precinct 3 Fort Bend County Fort Bend County
130 Industrial Blvd., Ste. 110
MerryThanksgiving! Christmas! Happy
Sugar Land, Texas 77478
Cynthia M. www.hrbacek.com Ginyard Happy Chairwoman Merry Christmas Independence Day! Fort Bend County Basil Housewright, Jr Democratic Party
Tel. No. 281-240-2424; Fax No. 281-240-7089
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FROM MY FAMILY TO YOUR FAMILY
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