News

Honoring Legacy and Leadership During Black History Month

As Black History Month is celebrated, it is an opportunity to reflect on the profound contributions of Black leaders who have shaped communities and the nation. This month holds special significance for Council Member Edward Pollard, as the Forward Times newspaper recently featured a cover story on his grandfather, Rev. Dr. T.J. Jemison, highlighting his role in the civil rights movement and his influence on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Rev. Jemison’s leadership in organizing one of the first major bus boycotts in Baton Rouge laid the groundwork for the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal moment in the fight for equality. The full article can be read here.

Houston also honors its own trailblazers. The Houston Police Department headquarters proudly bears the name of Officer Edward A. Thomas, the first Black officer in HPD history. His decades of service and perseverance in the face of adversity serve as a lasting reminder of the progress made and the work still ahead. Council Member Pollard recently visited HPD headquarters to reflect on Officer Thomas’ legacy—watch the video here.

Council Member Pollard was proud to help present an art piece by Douglas Nathaniel James Jr. at the Houston Museum of African American Culture, showcasing some of the most influential Black Houstonians throughout the city’s history. Recognizing the profound impact of these trailblazers, he was honored to be included in the artwork. This piece is the second iteration of an original work created a few years ago, with a special addition honoring John Guess Jr., the longtime Executive Director of the Houston Museum of African American Culture, where the artwork will be displayed in the lobby entrance. Prints are available for purchase in the museum gift shop, with proceeds supporting the programs and initiatives of HMAAC.

Black History Month is a time to recognize the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future. By honoring the achievements of those who paved the way, the community can continue working toward a more just and equitable society for all.

National Vietnam Veterans Appreciation Event

To honor National Vietnam Veterans Appreciation Day, we invite the community to join us for a meaningful ceremony recognizing the courageous men and women who served in the Vietnam War. This special gathering pays tribute to the more than 2.7 million U.S. Armed Forces members who answered the call of duty during this pivotal time in history.

In an intimate and reflective setting, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with the memories and stories of our veterans. The event will begin with a stirring performance of the National Anthem, followed by brief remarks from distinguished speakers. The ceremony will conclude with a solemn rendition of TAPS, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Guests are also invited to stay and share in light refreshments afterward.

J City Responds to Heavy Trash Complaints

Your concerns are our priority. Recently, several residents reached out to our office regarding heavy debris, including tree limbs, that had been left on the curb for an extended period despite multiple requests to 311 for pickup. Upon our office learning of the issue, our J City Beautification Team immediately visited the location and swiftly addressed the matter. The Beautification Team is a dedicated crew specifically for our district that responds to requests regarding illegal dumping, graffiti and litter abatement. The J City Beautification Team typically does not handle heavy trash pickup, as it falls under the city’s Solid Waste Department, but due to the prolonged presence of the debris, in this case an urgent response was necessary.

We remain committed to keeping our neighborhoods clean and ensuring that we provide supplemental services that are responsive to your needs. If you encounter similar issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. Together, we can continue to enhance the beauty and livability of J City.

Addressing Crime in J City

A recent Houston Chronicle article highlighted a troubling fact—Houston’s crime rate is higher than in other major cities. A review by Ernst & Young confirmed this, emphasizing the need for stronger public safety measures citywide. While crime is rising in Houston overall, J City is moving in the right direction, with crime rates declining thanks to proactive initiatives already in place that I believe can serve as a model city-wide.

Two of the key recommendations from the Ernst & Young report—license plate reader cameras (Flock cameras) and enhanced community policing—are already being implemented right here in J City. The District J Patrol, a first-of-its-kind community policing program, ensures that neighborhood concerns are addressed swiftly by dedicated officers. Meanwhile, the Flock cameras help law enforcement investigate and deter crime in real time. These tools are making a real difference in keeping our community safer.

But public safety isn’t just about policies and technology—it’s about all of us working together. By staying engaged, looking out for our neighbors, and continuing to push for positive change, we can build a safer, stronger community for everyone.

Know Your Rights Regarding Immigration

Council Member Pollard hosted an informative virtual Know Your Rights conversation live on Facebook with immigration attorney Kim Bruno of Abogada Numero Uno and community leader Tammy Rodriguez of the Gulfton Management District. The discussion took place in English and Spanish and highlighted legal rights, safety planning and available resources for immigrant families. The full video is available at this link, with the conversation starting at 11 minutes into the video.

Celebrating the Lunar New Year

The Chinese Community Center rang in the Year of the Snake with an unforgettable Lunar New Year Festival. The celebration brought together families, friends, and neighbors for a day filled with vibrant performances, delicious cuisine, and engaging cultural activities. Council Member Pollard was on hand to celebrate this rich tradition with members of the community.

Explore Nature with Friends of Keegans Bayou

The Friends of Keegans Bayou and Neighborhoods to Trails SW invite you to connect with nature and community at our upcoming outdoor adventure! This special event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of local wildlife, meet fellow nature enthusiasts, and explore the trails together. Participants can choose to take part in a guided bird walk or a refreshing bike ride along the bayou. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, a cycling enthusiast, or just looking to spend time outdoors, there’s something for everyone. For more information, visit https://neighborhoodstotrails.org. Special thanks to community partner Memorial Hermann Southwest.

Community Sweep

The J City Beautification Team conducted a community sweep in the Westwood-Alief area. Crews drove through known hot spots for the illegal dumping in the area.

Summer Internships With the City of Houston

The City of Houston summer jobs program is now accepting applications for internships in various departments. Working for the City of Houston is more than just a job—it’s a meaningful career in public service, offering the chance to make a lasting impact on the community. For more information and to submit an application, click this link.

Summer Lifeguards Needed in Houston

The City of Houston’s Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for another fun-filled summer and is currently hiring lifeguards to help keep our community safe. If you’re a strong swimmer looking for a rewarding seasonal job, this is your chance to make a difference while working outdoors at one of Houston’s many pools. Lifeguards play a critical role in ensuring the safety of swimmers, providing first aid when needed, and promoting water safety throughout the summer. Applicants must be 16 years or older, possess strong swimming skills, and complete the required training and certification provided by the department.

J City Projects

Clarewood Dr. Curb and Gutters

A project to remove and replace a curb and gutter near 7718 Clarewood has been completed. The contractor on the project was Tikon Group, Inc.

Wednesday Wrap-Up

Now more than ever, it is critically important for as many constituents as possible to be informed about how our local government operates. With this in mind, Council Member Pollard highlights one topic addressed at Houston City Council sessions in a video series called Wednesday Wrap-Up. It’s an effort to provide insight into the innerworkings of City Hall. Check out the YouTube channel to see weekly wrap-up videos.

Thursdays in the J

Stay in the loop with everything happening in J City by watching Thursdays in the J—our weekly video series where Council Member Edward Pollard highlights programs, services, and key initiatives across the district. From community resources to public safety updates, these videos provide valuable insights into the services our office offers and how they can benefit you.

Tune in every week on the District J YouTube channel.

District J Patrol is a three-pronged approach to public safety bridging the gap between the law enforcement officers in District J and the communities they serve. Sponsored by the District J office, this initiative includes community patrolling by Houston Police Department’s Differential Response Team (DRT), the use of five Polaris vehicles and the District J Patrol Task Force. Residents may report small neighborhood violations and infringements, such as panhandling, loitering, overgrown lots, graffiti, homeless encampments and other public nuisances. To file a report, visit the online portal at www.DistrictJPatrol.com.

To learn more about our modern approach to community policing, or to file a report regarding a quality of life issue, please visit www.districtjpatrol.com. To retrieve data, research policy, or to file a complaint online, visit houstontx.gov/policetransparency.