HPD's March on Crime
Panhandling & Motorist Safety

First established in 1984, March has been devoted to a campaign by the Houston Police Department to inform the general public about crime prevention tips. "March on Crime", as it is formally called, has addressed everything from drug awareness to burglary prevention, from neighborhood watch programs to crimes against the elderly.

The 31st Annual March on Crime is focusing on panhandlers and motorist safety. While the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo often experiences a large increase in panhandlers, anyone in Southwest Houston will tell you panhandling is a year-round reality. 

On that note, your District J office is appropriating $50,000 from the Council District Service Fund, to specifically address panhandlers along the Southwest Freeway.

Here are some pointers to remember in dealing with this problem:

• Do not give out money. Giving people money detracts from the efforts of social service agencies - which offer the best solutions to serve the homeless.

• Do not engage  - walk away, even into nearby businesses if you feel threatened. Remember that "aggressive panhandling" is illegal, as is the solicitation of funds within 8 feet of an ATM, pay-phone, parking meter, parking fee collection box, transit facility, or gas station. State law prohibits solicitations within a roadway.

If you encounter any problems, call 911, if an emergency. If this is a frequent occurrence at a particular location, reach out to your local storefront and ask for the assistance of a Differential Response Team (DRT) officer.

As always, please let your District J office know as well, so that we are aware of the problem and can advocate on your behalf.

Be safe and be well,

-Mike Laster, Council Member - District J

Willow Waterhole Music Fest 2015

HCAD Offering Property Tax Workshops

The Harris County Appraisal District and the Office of the Tax Assessor Collector often partner to present information to local property owners through various forums and workshops. Residential property valuation statements, often called appraisal notices, start going out in the mail this month. The deadline for property owners to file protests should they disagree with their valuation statements is May 31.

Please e-mail HCAD by clicking here to schedule.

Houston Arts & Cultural Plan Town Hall

The Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs is leading the development of the Arts and Cultural Plan. The City of Houston has many programs, practices, and regulations to advance arts and cultural activities. With this Plan, the City aims to create a common vision, goals, and coordinated implementation strategies.

By aligning arts and cultural priorities with Houston's identity and sense of place, the City can best leverage its cultural assets to enhance everyday life throughout the city and further the development and economic impact of Houston.

A Town Hall to discuss this Plan will be held on Wednesday, March 25th at the Metropolitan Multi-Service Center (1475 W Gray, 77019) at 6:30pm. Please click here to register for the event, as seating is limited.