Inside District I Newsletter
January 2016

My first term in office was filled with many challenges, opportunities, and accomplishments. The District I team worked hard to strengthen relationships, and develop strategic partnerships with stakeholders and communities across the district. In my second term, I will continue building on those relationships.

I am also pleased to announce my new position on City Council as the chair for the Regulation and Neighborhood Affairs (RNA) committee, where members will review and consider policies and regulations that protect and promote strong, vibrant neighborhoods and encourage the positive development of communities. The RNA committee has been tasked with overseeing the Department of Neighborhoods and Administration and Regulatory Affairs. I plan to use this leadership role to continue my fight to rid neighborhoods of stray dogs, illegal dumping, and dilapidated structures.

Over the next four years, I am committed to continuing my work on the advancement of my multi-pronged strategy for the reduction of stray animals, and the creation of a landmark Harrisburg Metrorail overpass, and the investment of my Council District Service Fund in neighborhood projects. I will also continue to influence the District I CIP process and advocate for more TIRZ investment into infrastructure and economic development.

Additionally, I am looking forward to working on the creation of a new "Garden District" along Broadway Boulevard in the Hobby area that will complement the Botanic Garden at Glenbrook and the implementation of the Gulf Freeway beautification plan that we have been working on. 

Finally, please join me in congratulating Daniel Santamaria on his new role as Chief of Staff in the District I office. Daniel is experienced and understands the challenges and many opportunities in our community. Leah Olive-Nishioka will remain with the District I office during this transition and I thank her for her two years of hard work serving District I residents. 

    Respectfully, 
 
    Robert Gallegos
    Houston Council Member
    District I
Gus Wortham & Glenbrook Updates
The District I Office is excited to announce that the first fundraising goals have been met for both the Gus Wortham Golf Course Restoration and the new Botanic Garden at Glenbrook Golf Course! Each organization was charged with raising $5 million in private donations before the end of 2015. 
The Houston Golf Association (HGA) anticipates restoration of  Gus Wortham  to begin in fall of 2016. HGA will continue to fundraise the remaining $10 million during the transition and construction periods. The golf course, club house, and new amenities are expected to open by July 1, 2019. 
The Houston Botanic Garden will also continue to raise funds to meet their next goal of $20 million by the end of 2017 in order to start the conversion from golf course to botanic garden. The design will feature native plants and habitats of the Houston area. During the fundraising period, the CIty will continue golf operations as normal. 

Both green spaces will enhance the quality of life for District I and City of Houston residents by providing recreation, revitalizing public green spaces, and expanding educational and economic opportunities. 
Space Heater Safety Tips
As the temperature drops, the Houston Fire Department urges citizens to be careful and follow some simple safety tips when using space heaters and other supplemental heating sources. Any shift away from the exclusive use of central heating presents an increased possibility for fire. 

Heating devices cause more than 100 fires in the City of Houston each year, resulting in numerous injuries and possible death. Citizens should always keep in mind that: Space Heaters Need Space!

New Open Carry Law Information
As of January 1, 2016  anyone with a Texas concealed carry permit is allowed to carry a handgun openly, in a belt or shoulder holster, with some exceptions.

Houston Police Chief Charles A. McClelland Jr., Harris Country District Attorney Devon Anderson and City Attorney Donna Edmundson participated in a Q&A panel discussion. Videos of that panel and a summary of the Q&A can be found here
Martin Luther King, Jr., Events & Festivities
It's time to celebrate and renew our commitment to one man's dream of a better tomorrow where all people are judged by the content of their character. 

The Children's Museum of Houston is hosting "Have A Dream Wonderweek" January 15-21, with a special celebration on Monday, January 18. 

The African American Library at the Gregory School is hosting a special exhibit "It Shall Be Done" featuring a selection of works from the collection that have rarely been shown. Represented will be important documents including a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. funeral program. On Thursday, January 15, the Library will present the film and dramatic interpretation "The Right to Dream", telling the story of a young African American growing up in the segregated South during the 1950s and 1960s. The struggle and sacrifice for civil rights in America is explained through this compelling story. The film and live dramatic interpretation illuminates the issues of civil rights, leading audiences to understand how the fight against prejudice has shaped our history. 

Many parades will also celebrate the life and work of Dr. King. The Black Heritage Society is hosting their 38th Annual "Original" Parade in downtown. And the MLK Parade Foundation has three parades lined up for Midtown - the 10th Annual Youth Parade on January 16, the 15th Annual MLK Battle of the Bands Competition on January 17, and the 22nd Annual MLK Grande Parade on January 18. 
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If you have an event to share with the District I community, please send an email to [email protected] 

Affordable Healthy Pet Options for Pet Owners
Help us reduce and prevent animal overpopulation in our community by spaying or neutering your pet. Pet owners now have many affordable pet healthcare and veterinary service options. Check out the many low-cost services Emancipet Houston and BARC's Fixin' Clinic provide by clicking the following images:


Helpful City Numbers

832-393-3011

3-1-1 or 713-837-0311
713-837-0311
832-393-0955
832-393-1038
713-844-3131
713-837-0311
713-837-0311
713-837-0311
713-371-1400
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Tel: 832-393-3011 | [email protected]