Fort Bend Independent 011619

VOL 12 No. 3

email: editor@ independent.com

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FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2019

P. O.BOX 623, SUGAR LAND, TX 77487-0623

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County & Missouri City

What should Stafford mayor’s salary be? $100,000 or $200,000?

By BARBARA FULENWIDER How much should the mayor of Stafford be paid?

This question came up recently at Stafford’s Jan. 9 city council meeting.

Right now Mayor Leonard Scarcella is getting a monthly amount of $900 along with a $400 car allowance and health insurance.

City council members are paid $250 a month.

This past September council members decided to set the standards that paid a mayor a working rate so they put a committee together to determine what that rate should be.

The agenda item came up because last Nov. 6 citizens voted on a proposed amendment G to the city’s home rule charter.

Amendment G said “the mayor shall receive pay and compensation, along with the payment of necessary expenses

incurred in performance of official duties, as set by the city council by ordinance. The amount of such compensation shall not exceed the fair market value of a city’s chief executive officer of a comparable size of the city of Stafford.”

Even though Scarcella sent out a flyer to the citizens explaining why he was opposed to this amendment and five other of the 13 proposed amendments on the ballot, all passed.

Since the citizens had spoken, a councilman felt it was time to determine how the ordinance should work so he put it on the agenda.

But prior to that Shanell Garcia, director of human resources, had to provide information to council regarding what other comparable cities pay their mayor and what CEOs would receive if they were doing a mayor’s job. She put together a list of 9 cities that

paid their mayor anywhere from nothing to somewhere in the $100,000 range.

Scarcella said, “The committee members want the mayor to be paid like a city administrator.

There’s no city on this list that has a strong city government.

Their city managers are being paid $146,000. If you approve that, the salary of the mayor could be $200,000 a year or more.

That’s why I sent out a mailer recommending that citizens vote against it.”

Garcia said that her list of 9 cities comparable to Stafford did not want their names made public. She agreed to that and also to the fact that none had a strong mayoral form of government.

Her list to council showed that 6 towns more comparable to Stafford’s residents pay their mayor anywhere form $100,000 to $150,000.”

See SALARY, Page 5

County presents wish list for the Texas Legislature

By SESHADRI KUMAR County Judge KP George, presiding over his first Fort Bend County Commissioners Court meeting and the first meeting of the year on Jan. 8, presented his wish list for the 86th Texas Legislature and so did the county commissioners.

County’s legislative lobbyist Jim Short presented a preview of the process of filing and getting the bills passed by the legislature.

Commissioners court will finalize its legislative agenda at a future meeting.

The first legislative agenda item proposed by George was the county’s continued opposition to any “Revenue cap” and urging the legislature to fix the school funding issue to help reform the property tax.

The county judge’s second agenda item sought state funding for improving the voting equipment.

Since the state has eliminated straight ticket voting, lengthy ballots would necessitate longer time to cast ballots and more voting machines are needed to enable timely voting.

Also, many of the voting machines have become old and defective, needing replacement.

It is estimated that Fort Bend County Election Administration may need about $15 million to update the voting machines and buy additional equipment.

The county judge suggested the creation of a Voting Systems Fund by the state for future funding of the county’s needs.

Short cautioned the commissioners that any bill with cost implications would be dead on arrival. The decision has to come from the top, namely the governor and the leadership should get behind it, for any legislation to pass, he said.

The county judge’s next

agenda item dealt with expansion of Medicaid.

Short said Harris County unsuccessfully tried for this legislation for many years now and Governor Greg Abbott is opposed to it.

“If you know it won’t happen and that it would only make the governor mad, why slight him and then ask him for help,” Short said. Instead of filing a bill, make a statement or pass a resolution to that effect, he suggested.

Pct. 1 Commissioner Vincent Morales proposed a legislative item creating a special sales tax in Richmond for a proposed hotel and convention center.

About $6 million in sales tax may be captured for this project.

Pct. 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage said he is working on a legislative measure to make some of the county’s unincorporated areas join a community college system. That would mean the annexed areas would have to pay a new tax, but students from this area would be paying low, indistrict tuition fees.

Pct. 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers had a series of bills dealing with County Assistance Districts.

For some of the items, he has already found legislative sponsors and pre-filed the bills.

One of the significant bills proposed by Meyers deals with detachment of areas now in the extraterritorial jurisdiction of the city of Houston.

The legislature has already passed a bill that would prevent the city from annexing an area “involuntarily.”

In other words, the area can be annexed only if the voters agree to annexation.

Meyers says the residents should have the ability to vote for detachment from the city’s ETJ.

Meyers wants the creation of County Assistance Districts in unincorporated areas, without the express permission from the nearby city.

For example, residents in Houston’s ETJ who do not vote in Houston city elections, will be subject to Houston’s decision not to allow a county assistance district, while the county commissioners whom they elect will have no authority to create the district. Meyers wants this legal anomaly to be removed.

Houston also enters into Strategic Partnership Agreements with developers or Municipal Utility Districts in its ETJ and collects sales tax. The city, however, does not provide any services to the area. The county, on the other hand, has to provide some services to that area.

Meyers is proposing legislation to enable the county to levy sales tax in such areas and spend that money for improvement within the taxing area.

Pct. 4 Commissioner Ken DeMerchant wants to improve the emergency notification system by allowing Fort Bend County residents to register for such notifications while renewing driver licenses.

DeMerchant also wants more resources for mental health patients in county jail and establishment of an outpatient mental health facility in the county. The last item proposed

by DeMerchant deals with “Equal pay for equal work.”

Short described the chance of such bills passing as 50-50 with a Republican controlled legislature and a conservative governor.

The county is expected to prune its list and send fewer bills for consideration.

MISSION BEND LIBRARY. The Mission Bend Branch Library, the 11th county library in the Fort Bend County library system, in Fort Bend County Precinct 2, at the corner of Addicks Clodine Road and Wildwood Lake Road, 8421 Addicks Clodine Road, Houston, Texas 77083, will have a grand opening ceremony on Feb. 9. See story on Page 5.

FBISD presents attendance boundaries for new elementary school and four high schools Fort Bend ISD administration on Monday, presented zoning recommendations to the Board of Trustees for both Malala Yousafzai Elementary and high schools in the southeast portion of the District (Elkins HS, Hightower HS, Marshall HS, Ridge Point HS and Willowridge HS).The board is likley to take action on these boundary recommendations during its January business meeting, on January 22.

Superintendent Charles Dupre in a letter to parents posted on the FBISD website last Friday said: “I am bringing this to your attention because we originally planned to bring the elementary recommendation in January, followed by the high school recommendation in February; however, the earlier high school recommendation was based on several factors, including feedback received following the community meetings via the online surveys, which we continued to receive and review during the recent winter break.

“First, clear themes and desires of the community became apparent very quickly as staff carefully reviewed this feedback. This feedback clearly showed that the community’s desire was to make minimal

changes in the short term, prior to the planned construction of a new high school in the southeast side of the District that was included in the 2018 Bond Program.

“We also recognize that the challenges associated with the boundary planning process have caused a great deal of anxiety, and because the community’s desires were so clear, we were able to formulate a recommendation faster than originally anticipated.”

During Monday’s meeting, the staff also presented their recommendations regarding innovative instructional programs at Marshall, Hightower, and Willowridge High Schools.

The board may approve these programs on January 22 as well.

“We are excited about the opportunities these programs will afford students, as they will be able to earn up to 60 hours of college credit, an associate degree, or certification – free of charge – while enrolled in Fort Bend ISD. As we continue planning for 2019-20 and beyond, we will continue to explore ways to introduce other innovative programs at these campuses and others, as we remain committed to improving the educational outcomes for all of our more than 76,000 students

in Fort Bend ISD. Our goal is to provide an exceptional learning experience at each one of our campuses, and we appreciate your continued support,” Dupre said.

Proposed Attendance Boundaries Summary of Recommended Changes: •The current Schiff ES zone will feed through Baines MS into Hightower HS instead of Ridge Point HS. •The portion of Heritage Rose ES that currently feeds to Baines MS (areas off or north of TX-6) will feed through Baines MS into Hightower HS instead of Ridge Point HS. •Parks ES will continue to feed through Lake Olympia MS and then into Willowridge HS instead of Hightower HS. •The area currently zoned to Palmer ES north of Lake Olympia Parkway and east of Community Park will be zoned through McAuliffe MS to Willowridge HS instead of Hightower HS. This area is currently being developed.

This recommendation addresses only building utilization calculated per policy, which does not account for the placement of academic programs or portable buildings.

See ZONING, Page 2

District Attorney announces new leadership and internal promotions Fort Bend County District Attorney Brian Middleton last week introduced new leadership positions in the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, including internal promotions.

In Middleton’s first full week in office, the transition process moved into its next phase with the announcement of the new leadership team.

Not wanting vacancies to compromise service to the community, Middleton and new

First Assistant Ibrahim Khawaja moved quickly to make final decisions on job applicants.

The new leadership team includes several former and career prosecutors that can call on decades of experience.

Middleton said, “New prosecutors were hired and some prosecutors were promoted.

As a result, the new staff is highly skilled with decades of prosecutorial experience.”

Middleton

Continued on Page 7

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 16, 2019

NEWS

City of Sugar Land hosts annual Business Appreciation Event

Members of the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation (L-R) include Gene Reed, John Null, Brent Leftwich, Patty Godfrey, Betty Baitland and Sunny Sharma with members of the Appel Family, including Emelia Appel, Patrick Valentz, Veronica Valentz, Erik Appel, Monica Appel, Barrett Appel, Kitee Valentz and Jason Valentz.

Patient celebrates 102nd birthday at OakBend

Myrtis B. “Tiny” Gates celebrated her 102 birthday on January 8 while recovering in OakBend Medical Center’s newly renovated fifth floor. Originally from Monroe, Louisiana, Tiny now lives in Pecan Grove. All smiles, Tiny was surrounded by family, friends and OakBend staff while she enjoyed her favorite vanilla cake decorated with pink, her favorite color. Tiny has two daughters, Judy, who lives in Richmond and who was in attendance for her mom’s birthday and Glenda who resides in Dallas. According to Judy, “Mom is a strong woman, At the age of 85 she had a triple by-pass operation and was out of the hospital in three days, she didn’t want to stick around any longer than necessary. She also likes to tell dirty jokes but she always forgets the punch line!” OakBend Medical Center was thrilled to share this occasion with Tiny and wish her many more healthy, happy birthdays.

The city of Sugar Land hosted its third annual business appreciation event, the Leadership and Legacy Luncheon, on Wednesday, Dec. 19.

The luncheon, held in partnership with the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation, celebrates the outstanding performance, leadership and contributions of Sugar Land’s

diverse business community.

“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 and be successful in Sugar Land,” said Elizabeth Huff, director of economic development for the city of Sugar Land, at this year’s event.

Sugar Land’s philosophy of fostering a pro-business climate, also referred to as the “Sugar Land Way,” has built a strong economy that continues to be recognized on a national level.

The city is a premier location for global companies ranging from local startups to multinational organizations.

This year’s event was held at Constellation Field, home to the 2018 Atlantic League Champion Sugar Land Skeeters and an example of one of the city’s many public private partnership projects.

The event also featured

Reid Ryan, president of business operations for the Houston Astros, as the keynote speaker.

At the event, the Sugar Land Legacy Foundation also presented the Sugar Land Legacy Awards to recognize individuals and organizations that have made a significant, lasting impact on economic development and overall prosperity in Sugar Land.

This year, they were presented to the late Herb Appel, who served as president and chief executive officer of the Fort Bend Economic Development Council for 27 years and NALCO Champion, an Ecolab Company, which in 2016 completed the consolidation of its Houston-area offices and centralized its headquarters in Sugar Land.

The Sugar Land Legacy Foundation Board of Directors selected recipients from nominations based on their commitment, business experience, tenure, service and leadership in Sugar Land.

Representing organization Legacy Award recipient NALCO Champion, an Ecolab Company, were (L-R) Bo Rose, Kurt Kirchof, Darrell Brown, Leanne Hamilton-Thompson and David Horsup.

Sienna Plantation awards $5,200 to shelter Cancer families Sienna Plantation recently awarded A Shelter for Cancer Families $5,200 collected during the Fort Bend community’s Sip & Stroll event last November.

The event, held at the Fort Bend community’s Sawmill Lake Club, brought together local restaurants and bars that offered tastes of featured foods, wines and beers. A ‘smores bar was staged around the outdoor firepit.

“We had so many people enjoying a date night or a girls’ night out,” said Allison Bond, marketing director for Sienna Plantation. “It was the perfect mix of food and fun in a beautiful surrounding.”

For each ticket sold, $20 was donated to A Shelter for Cancer Families. The organization provides free, tangible support in the Texas Medical Center to families affected by cancer.

“This donation will mean so much to the families that we try to help through their cancer journey by providing housing for out-of-town cancer families, helping them celebrate important milestones or other efforts,” said Missy Am-

Zoning From page 1 The placement of academic programs and the use of portable buildings will be addressed through the Annual Enrollment Review, which will be completed after boundaries are approved.

Proposed Attendance Boundaries Associated with the Opening of Malala Yousafzai Elementary The Administration is seeking Board approval of the attendance boundaries associated with the opening of Malala Yousafzai Elementary.

The following recommendation

Sienna Plantation Marketing Director Allison Bond, right, presents Missy Amschwand Bellinger with a $5,200 check for A Shelter for Cancer Families. Bellinger, a Sienna resident, co-founded the organization to provide housing for families with a loved one suffering from cancer, navigate the cancer journey and celebrate milestones. schwand Bellinger, co-found- behind our organization. I feel er of the organization and Si- blessed to live here.” enna Plantation resident. “It’s For more information about gratifying to see my own com- Sienna Plantation, visit www. munity throw such support siennaplantation.com. is proposed for implementation in two phases beginning in the fall of 2019.

Phase 1 (Fall 2019): • All Madden ES students residing north of West Airport Blvd. and east of Westmoor Dr. will remain zoned to Madden ES. •Students currently attending Madden ES residing west of Westmoor Dr. and south of West Airport Blvd. will be zoned to Yousafzai ES. (This area is currently undeveloped.)

•Identified undeveloped area in the Neill ES boundary located south of Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) property will be rezoned to

Brazos Bend ES. Phase 2 (Fall 2020): •Chelsea Harbor, Stratford Park Estates, and land in Cullinan Park and Sugar Land Municipal Airport will be rezoned to Oyster Creek ES. This recommendation addresses only building utilization calculated per Policy, which does not account for the placement of academic programs or portable buildings.

The placement of academic programs and the use of portable buildings will be addressed through the Annual Enrollment Review, which will be completed after boundaries are approved.

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 16, 2019 • Page 3

NEWS

First George Ranch Rodeo honors Fort Bend County’s Black Cowboy Legacy

James Thomas

Willie Thomas Discover the enduring legacy of African American cowboys in Fort Bend County history on Saturday, February 16 at the first annual George Ranch Rodeo!

Featuring all the favorite rodeo events (including bullriding, team roping and steerriding) plus kids’ activities, entertainment and vendors, the inaugural Rodeo will be a fun-filled day at the Ranch like no other!

“For more than 100 years, black cowboys played an essential role in Fort Bend County ranching operations.

At the George Ranch specifically, four generations of black cowboys worked alongside four generations of the George family, leaving behind a rich legacy of black cowboy heritage that is unique to this part of Texas,” said Director of Programs Krystal Willeby.

“The Rodeo grew out of a desire to celebrate the skills and contributions of these amazing individuals.”

This year’s event will showcase the history of black cowboys in Fort Bend County with a particular spotlight on brothers James and Willie Thomas.

The Thomas brothers grew up at the George Ranch and, from a young age, rode anything they could – including Ranch pigs!

Both brothers went on to compete in professional rodeos: James rode bare back until he left the cowboy life to serve in the U.S. Army and Willie became one of the best professional bull riders of his era.

(Willie’s contributions to the field have now been recognized by the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.)

Debra Greenwood-Sharp, a member of the Fort Bend History Association’s Board of Trustees, said she is delighted to see her uncles’ ranching and rodeo accomplishments showcased for the community.

“I’m grateful – and so thankful! – for the opportunity to share and raise awareness for the legacy of the many black cowboys who trail blazed through history here at the George Ranch and elsewhere in Fort Bend County,” she said.

“I’m definitely tickled that my uncles played a big part in that story, but I’m also extremely honored to help preserve the legacy of the black cowboys in this part of Texas.”

The Rodeo will feature special guest appearances by Genet Chenier, DJ R.E.M and DJ 281.

Rodeo events include bullriding, ladies’ barrel racing, steer-wrestling, tie-down calf-roping, ladies’ steer undecorating and team roping.

Children’s rodeo events include mutton-busting, barrel racing, breakaway and tiedown.

The slack starts at 9 a.m. with the grand entry at 6:30 p.m. and show time at 7 p.m.

“Our committee has worked tirelessly for months to ensure a fun-filled, exciting day here at the Ranch,” GreenwoodSharp said. “You won’t want to miss it!”

Pre-sale tickets are currently available online.

General Rodeo tickets include admission to the Arena only;

Box seats include admission to the Arena and Historical Park.

Pre-sale general admission cost is $5 for children ages four through 12 and $15 for adults. Box seats, which include admission to the Historical Park, are $12 for children ages four through 12 and $30 for adults.

At-the-gate general admission tickets are $10 for children ages four through 12 and $20 for adults.

At-the-gate box seats, which include admission to the Historical Park, are $17 for children ages four through 12 and $35 for adults.

For more information, visit https://www.georgeranch. org/programs-events/georgeranch-rodeo/ or call 281-3430218.

The stock contractor is R.R.J. Rodeo Enterprises.

Entry is via text only starting February 11 from 6-10 p.m.

Text 281-217-3951 to enter.

Up-to-date negative Coggins are required; please bring an extra copy to the event. Major events are $65 with $3,000 added money. Mutton-busting is $20; junior/pee-wee events are $30.

The George Ranch Historical Park is located at 10215 FM 762 in Richmond.

General admission for the Historical Park is $15 for adults ages 13+, $12 for seniors ages 65+ and $10 for children ages 4 to 12. Children three and under are free.

Operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.georgeranch.org or call 281-343-0218.

The George Ranch Historical Park is a living history museum that showcases Texas history from the 1830s through the 1930s.

The Park is anchored by four different home sites: the 1830s Jones Stock Farm, 1860s Ryon Prairie Home, 1890s Davis Victorian Mansion and 1930s George Ranch Cattle Complex.

Regular activities include historic home tours, living history demonstrations, handson activities, cattleworking and dipping vat demonstrations and more! Guests should allow three to four hours to visit the Park and should dress for the weather.

The George Ranch Historical Park is a living history partnership between the Fort Bend History Association, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and The George Foundation, a Texas Charitable Trust.

Steve Porter seeks re-election for Sugar Land City Council Steve Porter, Sugar Land City Councilman District One, has announced his campaign for re-election on May 4, 2019. He was first elected to city council in this same position in 2013 and will be serving his fourth-consecutive and last term on city council due to term limits, which he supports.

“It has been my privilege to serve the citizens of District One as a council member and Mayor ProTem (in 2016-17) on Sugar Land City Council,” said Porter.

“For more than 39 years, my family and I have chosen to call District One our home.

We love District One for the history, the great schools, the planned growth, and especially the friends and neighbors who also call District One their home.”

“I also look forward to serving and representing the new residents in District One, recently added by redistricting,” said Porter.

Porter believes Sugar Land is one of the best places to live and work in the nation and wants to work with the council and staff to meet the challenges ahead in District One involving aging infrastructure, quality development, safety, economic growth, mobility

Carol McCutcheon files for re-election to Sugar Land City Council Carol McCutcheon announced she will seek reelection as Sugar Land City Council Member District 4 in the May 4, 2019 election.

Since the annexation, her district has included Greatwood.

“I am grateful I was elected to serve as the people’s voice on City Council. I have worked hard for the people of Sugar Land and am proud of my service,” said Carol McCutcheon.

McCutcheon brought decades of business and civic experience with her.

“It is important that Sugar Land continues to attract high-quality businesses so we can maintain one of the lowest tax rates in the state.

“However, it is essential to balance growth and development with preserving the suburban atmosphere that makes Sugar Land such a wonderful place to call home. It is also vital to continue to enhance mobility through deployment of advanced traffic technology.”

In addition to serving on Council, McCutcheon serves on the Sugar Land Development Corporation Board, Sugar Land 4B Board, Tax Increment

Local attorney Alex Hunt seeks spot on Lamar Consolidated ISD

Alex Hunt, a Katy-Fulshear resident, parent, local attorney for children and families, and former public school teacher, has announced his candidacy for the District 7 seat on the Lamar Consolidated ISD Board of Trustees.

Hunt has advocated for children his entire career. After graduating from The University of Texas, he taught sixth grade math in a Houston public school.

Through that experience, he learned the challenges teachers and students face daily.

In 2013, Hunt founded Hunt Law Firm, a law firm in Katy serving children and families.

Today, he advocates for the kids he represents – ensuring their educational, medical, and social needs are met in

Hunt the child protective system.

Last year, Hunt co-founded the

Foster Care Advocacy Center, a nonprofit providing holistic advocacy for children and parents involved in the child welfare system.

Hunt’s goal on the Board of Trustees will be to build consensus for common-sense solutions: “I am a parent and life-long advocate for kids. I am running to bring my experience in education, children’s advocacy, and small business to make our schools stronger.”

Hunt’s vision for LCISD: • Promoting smart growth – “Our area is the fastest growing in LCISD, and LCISD is the fastest growing district in Fort Bend County. LCISD needs thoughtful, proven leadership to ensure our schools keep up with the growth.”

Porter and other issues.

He also currently serves on the Sugar Land Development Corporation, the Sugar Land 4B Corporation, the Economic Development Committee, the Finance/Audit Committee, the Integrated Water Resource Planning Council Taskforce, and as an alternate to the H-GAC General Assembly & Board of Directors.

In the community, Porter also serves on the Gannoway Lake Estates Homeowners Association.

Previously, he served on both City and County-wide boards and committees, for example, the City of Sugar Land City Council Election Recount

Committee, City of Sugar Land University Blvd. North Citizens Taskforce, Fort Bend County-City of Sugar Land Municipal Airport Joint Zoning Board (County representative), Boy Scouts of America local troops as an Adult Committee Member, and Fort Bend Young Life as a founding Adult Committee member.

Porter has a Master of Business Administration from Houston Baptist University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from the University of Houston.

He and his wife, Nancy, have been married for 39 years, and have four sons: Kirk, Mike, John and Chris; three daughters-in-law: Tanya, Melanie and Blair; and seven grandchildren.

He retired from ExxonMobil after serving almost 40 years as a Global Information Technology Project Manager. The Porters are active members of River Pointe Church.

Porter says he is committed to continue to keep Sugar Land District One as a place to be proud to call home, both now and in the future.

Visit www.StevePorter4 District1.com.

•Ensuring safe schools – “We live in a wonderful community, but the threat of school violence is an unavoidable, modernday reality. Our schools and policies must adapt to ensure our children stay safe.”

•Advocating for our children – “I will work to ensure our schools protect the rights of all students to learn, including those with special needs, and that funding for our students is both sufficiently and fairly allocated.”

District 7 encompasses sections of southwest Katy, Fulshear, Simonton, and North Richmond. The election is Saturday, May 4, 2019.

For more information visit AlexHuntTX.com.

McCutcheon Reinvestment Zone No. 4, City Finance/ Audit Committee, and City Multicultural Task Force.

She also serves on the Skeeters Baseball Foundation Board that provides grants to organizations that serve disadvantaged youth in Fort Bend County.

She has served as a First Colony Neighborhood Representative for 25 years.

McCutcheon previously served on the City’s Compensation Committee, Land Use Advisory Committee, and Charter Review Commission.

She was the HoustonGalveston Area Council’s Transportation Policy Council alternate. She is former president of the Women’s Energy Network of Houston and has cochaired several charity fundraisers.

She was selected as a 2003 Fort Bend Woman of the Year for community service.

McCutcheon is a graduate of Sugar Land 101 and the Sugar Land Citizen’s Police, Fire, and Airport Academies. She is also a graduate of the Fort Bend Leadership Forum, Leadership Houston, Leadership Texas, and Leadership America.

McCutcheon holds a B.S. and M.S. in Chemical Engineering and an M.B.A. She worked as a reservoir engineer in the oil and gas industry where she led multi-disciplinary teams.

She is a 25-year resident of Sugar Land. She and her husband, Joe, have been married for 31 years.

For more information, visit www.carolforsugarland. com.

To confirm your Council district after redistricting, visit http://sugarlandtx. gov/732/My-Neighborhood

Names sought for 3 schools Lamar Consolidated ISD is accepting nominations for the names of the District’s three new elementary schools along with the new junior high school and high school.

These schools will be built with funds approved by voters as part of the November 2017 Bond.

Nominations must be completed and returned to the Office of the Chief of Staff (3911 Avenue I, Rosenberg, TX 77471 or communications@lcisd.org) no later than Feb. 4, 2019.

For a facility named after a person, the following shall apply: 1. The nominee may be deceased or living and shall have attained prominence locally or nationally, with local prominence taking precedence,

in the fields of education, science, art, statesmanship, political science, or military achievement.

2. The nominee may have been an early Texas pioneer or an outstanding president of the United States.

3. The nominee shall have made a significant contribution to society.

4. The name should lend prestige and status to an institution of learning.

5. The nomination must be presented in a form that contains: Biographical/historical data; and Reasons justifying the choice.

For a facility named after a place, the nomination should include its historical relevance.

For more information visit the lcisd.org .

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 16, 2019

OPINION

By JIM RICE Because the current method of funding public education is overly dependent on local property taxes, the 85th Texas Legislature established the Texas Commission on Public School Finance to find ways to fix it. The Commission, chaired by former Texas Supreme Court Justice Scott Brister, recently released its final report. A few of the recommendations included are: •$100 million a year to school districts that want to develop their own teacher evaluation metrics and tie pay to performance.

•Up to $150 million to incentivize school districts to offer dual language programs, which instruct students in both English and Spanish, and to improve their dyslexia programs.

•$800 million to incentivize school districts to improve students’ reading level in early grades and to succeed in college or a career after graduating high school.

•$1.1 billion to improve education for low-income students, with school districts that have a higher share of needy students getting more money.

•Create a new goal of hav-

School finance reform – Who needs it? ing 60 percent of third-grade students reading on or above grade level and 60 percent of high school seniors graduating with a technical certificate, military inscription, or college enrollment without the need for remedial classes.

•Cap local school district tax rates in order to offer property tax relief and a small amount of funding for schools —a proposal from Abbott.

•No extra funding for special education programs until the state has completed overhauling those programs in line with a federal mandate.

The Texas Tribune reported “In its final report, the commission said it wanted to: balance local and state funding for public schools; to rework “outdated or otherwise inefficient allotments, weights and programs;” to increase equity in schools “with significantly greater investment in low-income and other historically underperforming student groups;” to reduce the growth of property taxes and reliance on the so-called “Robin Hood” system that moves money from wealthier districts to poorer ones; to encourage adoption of “data-informed best practices” and to immediately spend more

School finance, property tax reform lead Texas Legislature’s agenda AUSTIN The Legislature will pass sweeping reforms to the way it pays for public schools this session, according to the leaders of both chambers and Governor Greg Abbott.

Abbott appeared with Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and newly elected House Speaker Dennis Bonnen at a press conference on Wednesday to announce that all three were committed to addressing education funding and property tax growth in 2019.

“If the three of us are aligned, that we’re going to accomplish a mission, and pass legislation, it happens,” said Patrick. “This is not just a message to the public and to the media, but I think our members will take note, that this is really unprecedented, that we’re addressing these issues at the beginning of session, totally united with one another.”

A commission made up of stakeholders, experts and lawmakers studied the issue over the interim and issued findings and recommendations in December last year.

The Texas Commission on Public School Finance found that the current formulas that determine how much each school gets per student are outdated and insufficient to meet the needs of students, especially those from lowincome backgrounds, those with special education needs and those learning English.

They recommended an overhaul of allotments and weights, the variables that drive the funding formulas, to redirect $3.5 billion in existing funds towards these vulnerable populations as well as other programs that produce strong educational outcomes for all students.

The commission also made recommendations for property tax reform, offering three solutions but not recommending one above another.

The commission found that the amount of recapture, that is local property tax revenue above a certain threshold remitted to the state and then redirected to propertypoor districts, is increasing significantly.

The number of districts paying recapture is more than

200, up many times more than the 34 who originally paid recapture when the law was passed in 1993.

One proposed solution would use growth in recapture to compress local property tax rates.

Another would take this growth and divide it equally among the state, school districts, and taxpayers.

The final plan would simply cap property tax growth at 2.5 percent per year.

What eventually reaches the Senate floor will be developed by a newly formed committee on property taxes.

Also, budget writers found out how much money they’ll have to work with as they figure out how to pay for state services for the next two years when Comptroller Glenn Hegar issued his biennial revenue estimate.

The state is constitutionally prohibited from spending more than it takes in, so this estimate sets a cap on how much lawmakers can appropriate.

Unlike in 2017, when legislators arrived in Austin to discover they had less money to work with than the previous session, strong economic growth and sales tax collections have increased available revenue by eight percent over last session, for a total of just under $120 billion in non-dedicated general revenue.

Hegar also releases growth projections for the Texas economy with the revenue estimate, and he said that a recovery in the oil market in 2018 and expansion of the national economy led to robust 3 percent growth in gross state product, and forecast an even stronger four percent rate for 2019.

Beyond that, he said, economic uncertainties cloud the state’s economic prospects.

Rising federal interest rates, a drop in the price of a barrel of oil from its October high, and volatility in the global market and questions about US global trade policy will rein in growth.

While the state should still outpace the national economy, he said, his office predicts more modest growth in GSP of 2.5 percent in each year of the 2020-2021 biennium.

money to do it; and to increase per-pupil funding in the future based on the results of those practices.”

What the report failed to suggest were ways to replace the revenue that is currently derived from local property taxes. The Tribune report went on to say that “Even if not one more dime is spent on public education in Texas, leveling the fundraising load would force the state to raise more money.”

Statewide the balance between state and local property taxes is roughly 35 per cent state and 55 per cent local property taxes with the difference being contributed by Federal programs. It has been estimated it would cost more than $11 billion to bring that back into balance which is surely an amount that would require the state to find the money somewhere else.

As a homeowner myself, I would like my property tax bill

trade schools or the military and then get a job that pays a living wage that allows them to marry, buy a house, raise a family and contribute to our common welfare. So who needs school finance reform – we all do!

All our children deserve a quality education. The legislature has a constitutional duty to support and maintain a system of public schools in this state (Texas Constitution Article 7, Section 1). State statute imposes a further duty upon the legislature: “The mission of the public education system of this state is to ensure that all Texas children have access to a quality education that enables them to achieve their potential and fully participate now and in the future in the social, economic and educational opportunities of our state and nation” (Texas Education Code §4.001).

Just as we hold our school districts accountable for stu-

to decrease, however there can be no lowering of local property taxes without revising the current school funding formulas, and there can be no revising of school funding formulas without finding an alternative revenue source to replace the current over reliance on local property taxes. It is a conundrum.

The new Speaker of the House, Dennis Bonnen, has made these two goals the top priorities of the Texas House.

It will require hard work, commitment and understanding of this important issue on the part of the entire Texas Legislature as well as all our citizens to get this done.

As parents, we all want the good things in life for our children. Most of us would agree this begins with receiving a quality education that allows them to graduate from high school ready to enter college,

dent achievement, we should also hold the State Legislature accountable for supporting a public school system that provides a quality education for all students as the state constitution requires.

The Legislature needs to uphold its constitutional duty to support and maintain a system of public schools in Texas, and fund it adequately and equitably. Let us not squander this legislative session with arguments over how schools are funded; rather let us focus our efforts on improving our public schools, which have and always will educate the majority of our students. If you agree, let your legislators know.

Jim Rice was elected to serve on the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees in May 2010. These comments are his alone and he is not speaking on behalf of the Board.

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS

BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER OF SALE

§ § §

FORT BEND COUNTY

and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on January 7, 2019, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in February, 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1st Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Texas 77469, between the hours of 10 o'clock a.m. and 4 o'clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Fort Bend and the State of Texas, to-wit: Sale #

Cause # Judgment Date

Acct # Order Issue Date

Style of Case

Legal Description

Adjudged Value

Estimated Minimum Bid

1

16-DCV230995 11/15/18

007600000057290 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. TREMONA L. SCALES, AKA TREMONA LATREES SCALES, ET AL

TR. 1: 0.2406 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, JOHN RANDON LEAGUE, ABST NO. 76* VOL 686, PG 56 & CLERK'S FILE# 2000014515 & 8768964*

$7,220.00

$5,300.00

2

16-DCV230995 11/15/18

007900000093490 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. TREMONA L. SCALES, AKA TREMONA LATREES SCALES, ET AL

TR. 2: 0.58 ACRE, MORE OR LESS, NOEL F. ROBERTS LEAGUE, ABST 79, VOL 686, PG 56, VOL 479, PG 253 & CLERK'S FILE# 8768964*

$16,700.00

$8,100.00

3

16-DCV234775 11/15/18

007600000015090 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. MARY SOUTH 1/2 OF LT 4, CORNELIUS 1 RANDON ESTATE, VOL 179, PG LEWIS, ET AL 128A* DECEMBER 26, 2018

$174,320.00

$35,000.00

4

16-DCV236280 08/15/18

424801003002091 4 DECEMBER 26, 2018

LOTS 2 & 3, BLK 3, KELLIWOOD WILLOW FORK DRAINAGE GREENS, SEC 1, REC'D IN SLIDE# DISTRICT VS. SAVITRI CHATARPAL WASHINGTON, ET 1021/B* AL

$890,000.00

$91,900.00

5

17-DCV243581 08/23/18

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. DEBBIE RICHARDS (IN REM ONLY)

LOT 39, BLK 6, SOUTH MAIN PLAZA SUB'D, VOL 3, PG 22*

$29,930.00

$8,300.00

6

18-DCV252488 11/16/18

715000006390090 7 DECEMBER 26, 2018 586301006034090 7 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT # 26 VS. ROSE STOKES AKA ROSE MARIE STOKES AKA ROSE BROOKS STOKES

LOT 34, BLK 6, QUAIL GREEN WEST, SEC 1, VOL 22, PG 56*

$99,270.00

$7,500.00

(any volume and page references, unless otherwise indicated, being to the Deed Records, Fort Bend County, Texas, to which instruments reference may be made for a more complete description of each respective tract.) or, upon the written request of said defendants or their attorney, a sufficient portion of the property described above shall be sold to satisfy said judgment(s), interest, penalties, and cost; and any property sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the said property, or their interest therein, within the time and in the manner provided by law, and shall be subject to any other and further rights to which the defendants or anyone interested therein may be entitled, under the provisions of law. Said sale to be made by me to satisfy the judgment(s) rendered in the above styled and numbered cause(s), together with interest, penalties, and costs of suit, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs.

RECENT CHANGES IN THE PROPERTY TAX CODE NOW REQUIRE PURCHASERS OF TAX SALE PROPERTY TO HAVE A STATEMENT FROM THE FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR CERTIFYING THAT THE PERSON/FIRM/COMPANY PURCHASING PROPERTY AT A TAX SALE OWES NO DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES TO ANY TAXING ENTITY WITHIN THE COUNTY. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A TAX SALE DEED TO ANY PROPERTY YOU PURCHASE WITHOUT THIS CERTIFICATE. TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE SALE. Dated at Richmond, Texas, January 7, 2019 Constable Wayne Thompson Fort Bend County, Texas By Deputy Notes: The Minimum Bid is the lesser of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value.

However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a person who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (713) 844-3576

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 16, 2019• Page 5

NEWS

New library at Mission Bend set to open Feb. 9

Missouri City mayor presides over first city council meeting of the year

By BARBARA FULENWIDER New and former Missouri City council members made quick work of their agenda at their first meeting of the new year.

Newly sworn in mayor, Yolanda Ford, presided and council approved amending the regulations and restrictions of Planned Development District No. 81 where Lexington Village will be; allowed the developer of Dry Creek Village to finish putting in the last part of Dry Creek Drive, and approved a 10-year lease/ purchase for a $2.27 millionfire engine and ladder truck.

The PD District No. 18 is where Lexington Village will be built out on 38.51 acres that Sunlake Limited owns and 6.53 acres Hannover Estates, Ltd. owns. It will be a mixed use development that includes commercial, retail, townhomes and multifamily residential developments.

The development district is north of the intersection of Fifth Street and FM1092,

southeast of the intersection of Lexington Boulevard/Independence Boulevard and FM 1092 and west of FBISD’s Armstrong Elementary School.

The property is mostly undeveloped acreage but does have a Starbucks at 1322 FM1092 and a Take 5 Oil Change at 1405 FM1092.

The applicant requesting amendments plans to build 173 patio homes with 2-car garages on 18.16 acres; approximately 288 multifamily apartments on 11.12 acres and have some 7.14 acres for commercial businesses.

District C Councilman Anthony Maroulis opposed the developer’s plan because he thinks it has too many apartments in it that would cause overcrowding at Fort Bend ISD’s Armstrong Elementary school. The vote to approve changes for District No. 81 passed 6-1.

The Dry Creek Access agreement to connect Dry Creek Drive to Trammel Fres-

no Road through city property got the green light from council along with the developer’s plan to excavate 55,000 cubic yards of a permanent detention pond on a drainage easement adjacent to the city’s Mustang Wastewater Treatment Plant. Council approval was 7-0 in favor.

The lease/purchase of a Pierce fire engine will primarily be used to take firefighters to the scene, provide a limited supply of water to fight the fire, carry hoses, tools and equipment to an emergency scene.

The ladder truck rescues people from heights and supports ventilation efforts.

The two new units will replace the ladder truck bought 19 years ago and the Pierce pumper fire engine, which has been in service for 16 years.

The pumper ran $726,124 and the Pierce platform ladder truck came in at $1,386,275.

Council approved the lease/ purchase with a 7-0 vote.

Salary

I can vote for that. It’s too much. It’s excessive.”

Pertile responded: “You have the will of the people.

People went to the polls. This is a constitution that will guide this city forever. Four of you could have voted no. The vote was 4-3. Now it’s the will of the people to adopt their constitution. This is what our guiding principles are.”

Councilman Cecil Willis said, “The mayor’s salary will go from $900 to $140,000. I have never had one person that I felt was here for the money.

They are here to serve their community. I will never raise my hand to put $140,000 for the mayor’s salary.”

Councilman A. J. Honore said, “I suggest we get the full information from human resources to provide council which numbers are sizeable and get the full data and come back next month.”

Scarcella said, “If I’d been paid $100,000 a year I’d have made $2 ½ million. If it was $200,000 I’d have made over $4 million. It is inconceivable to beholden to him or her when they can pay the mayor $100,000, so I told citizens to vote against it.”

Rosas said, “Being mayor is a 24/7 job. It’s a grueling job to be mayor what with people calling you all the time.

To me the position is worth that. We’ve done it because we want to do a community service. Fortunately mayor, you’ve been able to come readily and be here.

“As the city grows and expands, the job will be even more work than it is now. It’s a big amount of money and I would hope it would be a full time position. I don’t want to see an exorbitant amount to have some 9 or 10 people running for mayor because of the salary.”

Scarcella said, “I agree with everything Virginia said. You have the city manager salary on all these towns (Shandell had on her list). Mayors do have responsibilities that city managers don’t have.”

Honore made a motion for

the human resources director to finish her research and provide the data to council before Feb. 1.

The motion carried and council went on to their next agenda item.

From Page 1 Scarcella said, “If we are thinking about anything similar, the people need to know how much it will be before they go to the polls to vote on it. I think we need to let them know the particular amount the candidates for mayor would get. As I read the particular revision of the home rule charter, the salary could be tremendously different for the mayor.”

Art Pertile, the city’s lawyer, said, “That was the intent. There is a different amount from the amount you make now and what a city manager in a city of 15,000 to 20,000 people makes. The mayor would get paid what a mayor of other comparable size towns or a CEO makes.

It’s in the $100,000 range.”

Council Member Virginia Rosas said, “The charter says you have to do it but we don’t have to implement it now.

There’s no time (stated in the city’s charter) that says it has to be implemented.”

Pertile replied, “You have to do it because that’s what (Amendment L in) the charter says.”

Scarcella said, “It’s a political football” if council wants the mayor to earn $250,000.

Pertile said the range could be from $100,000 to $140,000.

Scarcella said, “What if someone on the council doesn’t like the mayor? They could change the amount to $1.”

Pertile said that would not happen because Amendment G is now in the charter so must be adhered to.

“You take cities in the greater Houston area -- 15 cities with 20,000 citizens or more and group Humble and Katy in there. That will give you a plan. It has to be what a similar size city mayor would make.”

Councilman Ken Mathew said the maximums the 9 cities pay a mayor run from $70,000 to $146,000. “I don’t think

The grand-opening ceremony of Fort Bend County Libraries’ Mission Bend Branch Library will take place on Saturday, February 9, beginning at 10 a.m, at the new library, located at 8421 Addicks Clodine Road in Houston.

The grand opening will be officiated by Fort Bend County Precinct 2 Commissioner Grady Prestage, who will be joined by other county and local officials.

All area residents are invited to come out and take part in the grand-opening reception.

The library is on Addicks Clodine Road, near the intersection of Wildwood Lake Road, in Southwest Houston.

The new library, designed

by AUTOARCH Architects LLC of Houston, is a onestory rectangular structure of 23,779 square feet, making it the fifth largest library in the system, which now includes 11 libraries and management of the Law Library.

The building is designed to blend the best of traditional library services with a wide range of electronic resources.

The library is equipped with the latest in computer and telecommunications technology, including WiFi, 3D printing, and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) capabilities.

The library will also have

self-check machines so that library patrons can check out their own materials, facilitating quick and efficient library service.

The library includes community meeting rooms, study rooms, a puppet theater, and a computer lab for technology classes and general public use. Additional computers will be available for public use outside of the computer lab.

The library will offer introductory computer classes for adults. Patrons may learn computer basics such as how to use a computer, how to search the Internet, how to use Microsoft Office programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and how to find or create designs for the 3D printer.

A special feature in the lobby of the library will be unveiled on opening day.

Beginning the week of February 11, the Youth Services department will have a variety of weekly children’s programs, including Mother Goose Time for infants, Toddler Time for babies from 12 to 36 months of age, and Story Time for 3 to 6-year-old children.

A wide variety of books for children and adults are available for recreational reading and research.

Magazines, newspapers, and audiovisual materials are also on hand.

The library offers ebooks, audiobooks, movies, and music that can be downloaded from home, as well as a generous assortment of databases that patrons may access in the library or from home.

“Part of our library mission is to provide an environment of lifelong learning and enrichment for the entire, diverse community, and the new Mission Bend Branch Library reinforces our commitment to providing a continuum of service for people of all ages,” says Library Director Clara Russell.

“We hope the residents in the area will find the new library a pleasant and enjoyable place where they can study, improve their job skills, or just relax with a good book.”

The hours of operation for the new Mission Bend Branch Library will be as follows: Monday, 12 noon - 9 p.m; Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m – 9 p.m, Thursday, 10:00 am – 6 p.m; Friday, 12:00 noon - 5 p.m; and Saturday, 10 a.m - 5 p.m. The library will be closed on Sundays.

For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office at 281633-4734.

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS

BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER OF SALE

§ § §

FORT BEND COUNTY

and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on January 3, 2019, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in February, 2019, the same being the 5th day of said month, at 301 Jackson Street, William Travis Building, 1st Floor Meeting Room in the City of Richmond, Texas 77469, between the hours of 10 o'clock a.m. and 4 o'clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Fort Bend and the State of Texas, to-wit: Sale #

Cause # Judgment Date

Acct # Order Issue Date

Style of Case

Legal Description

783500009006290 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018 004900000014090 1 DECEMBER 26, 2018

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. WILLIAM JACKSON (IN REM), ET AL

EAST 50 FT, LT 6, BLK 9, CITY OF ROSENBERG, VOL P, PG 146*

$8,330.00

$4,500.00

FORT BEND COUNTY VS. ROBERT THORNTON, ET AL (IN REM ONLY)

0.38 ACRES (16,640 SQ FT), MORE OR LESS, JOSEPH KUYKENDALL LEAGUE, ABST 49, VOL 329, PG 140*

$34,960.00

$10,000.00

$17,730.00

$3,700.00

$119,320.00

$7,700.00

1

16-DCV233257 08/22/18

2

16-DCV234767 10/17/18

3

17-DCV243513 10/17/18

001800000122090 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. 1 GEORGE SOLOMON DECEMBER 26, 2018

1.295 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, HORATIO CHRIESMAN LEAGUE, ABST18, TRACT# 12, VOL 1088, PG 248*

4

17-DCV243567 11/15/18

002500000736290 FORT BEND COUNTY VS. 7 ALEJANDRO PORTALES, ET AL DECEMBER 26, 2018

TRACT 114, ONE OAK CHASE SUB'D, ABST 25, CLERK'S FILE# 2015042825*

Adjudged Value

Estimated Minimum Bid

(any volume and page references, unless otherwise indicated, being to the Deed Records, Fort Bend County, Texas, to which instruments reference may be made for a more complete description of each respective tract.) or, upon the written request of said defendants or their attorney, a sufficient portion of the property described above shall be sold to satisfy said judgment(s), interest, penalties, and cost; and any property sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the said property, or their interest therein, within the time and in the manner provided by law, and shall be subject to any other and further rights to which the defendants or anyone interested therein may be entitled, under the provisions of law. Said sale to be made by me to satisfy the judgment(s) rendered in the above styled and numbered cause(s), together with interest, penalties, and costs of suit, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs.

RECENT CHANGES IN THE PROPERTY TAX CODE NOW REQUIRE PURCHASERS OF TAX SALE PROPERTY TO HAVE A STATEMENT FROM THE FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR CERTIFYING THAT THE PERSON/FIRM/COMPANY PURCHASING PROPERTY AT A TAX SALE OWES NO DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAXES TO ANY TAXING ENTITY WITHIN THE COUNTY. YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A TAX SALE DEED TO ANY PROPERTY YOU PURCHASE WITHOUT THIS CERTIFICATE. TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR FORT BEND COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR AT LEAST TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO THE SALE. Dated at Richmond, Texas, January 3, 2019 Constable Mike Beard Fort Bend County, Texas

FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.

By

12551 Emily Court, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Seshadri Kumar Publisher & Editor

www.fbindependent.com 281-980-6745

Fort Bend Independent, (USPS 025-572) is published every Wednesday (for a subscription rate of $20 per year) by Fort Bend Independent, LLC., 12551, Emily Court, Texas 77478.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Stafford, Texas.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Fort Bend Independent, P.O. Box 623, Sugar Land, Tx 77487.

Deputy Notes: The Minimum Bid is the lesser of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value.

However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a person who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (713) 844-3576

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 16, 2019 • Page 6

AUTOMOBILE: Mazda Miata’s 30th birthday

By BARBARA FULENWIDER The Mazda Miata was born in 1989 and it’s been a rockin’ fine party ever since.

This two-seater is everything you want in a sports car: great looks, fun power, six speed stick, right price tag, wonderful handling -- you name it.

2019 is the MX-5 Miata’s 50th birthday and the party has been so swell that someday Mazda may be celebrating Miata’s 100th. From the day the Miata was shown to the public its been the roadster that is still attracting buyers and lots of them.

The test drive MX-5 RF arrived in “snowflake white pearl” on swooping exterior lines, with a black retractable hardtop that folds into the trunk with the touch of a button. It has a sporty interior with heated seats of Nappa auburn leather and they are bucket seats that recline and slide forward and back .

The MX-5 Miata Grand Touring RF is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC, 16 valve, LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION Notice by Order of Fort Bend County Commissioners Court on Dec. 18, 2018 in accordance with TX LOCAL GOV’T CODE 263.001. The appointed Commissioner shall sell at public auction real property owned by the County on the 24th day of January 2019 at 09:00 a.m.

Said property to be sold at public auction is 0.0992 acres of land being a remainder portion of Lot 20, Block 2, Oak Lake Estates, Section 4, Fort Bend County, Texas, described in a deed dated September 6, 2016 from Oak Lake Estates to Fort Bend County, Special Instrument Number 2017012482.

The auction will be held at the property location, 11615 Glen Lake Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77498.

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

4 cylinder engine with variable valve timing. The engine makes 181 horsepower at 7000 rpm and torque is 151 lb.-ft. at 4000 rpm. It redlines at 7500 rpm. Premium fuel is recommended.

The minimum octane required is regular unleaded or 87 octane or greater. Estimated fuel economy is 26 in the city and 34 on the highway with a six speed manual transmission.

The chassis is a monocoque unibody with backbone frame construction and suspension subframes. The brakes are 11inch vented disc brakes and in back are solid disc brakes. The suspension is four-wheel independent and up front is double wishbone with aluminum control arms and monotube. Suspension in back is multi-link aluminum bearing support and monotube dampers.

Safety features on the MX-5 RF are side impact airbags and side impact door beams, rearview camera engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring system and power automatic door locks. Wheel size is 17 x 6.5 aluminum alloy in metallic

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Cinco Village Center Section 3 Partial Replat No. 1 (Cinco Village Center Boulevard), Precinct 3.

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.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Blase Road, Precinct 1.

Submitted by,

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

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.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Veranda, Section 16, Precinct 1.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Spring Green Blvd. roundabout, Precinct 3.

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.

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,

Submitted by,

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

THE STATE OF TEXAS CITATION BY PUBLICATION To: MELVIN VIGO RIVERA You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days from the date of issuance of this citation, same being February 04, 2019 a default judgment may be taken against you.

The case is presently pending before the 400TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT of Fort Bend County sitting in Richmond, Texas. It bears cause number 17DCV-247447 and is styled: Dwayne J. Briscoe vs. Melvin Vigo Rivera The name and address of the attorney for PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is: CALEB D VILLARREAL CORDOBA LAW FIRM PLLC 85 OAK DRIVE SUITE 102 LAKE JACKSON TX 77566 979-297-2854 The nature of the demands of said PLAINTIFF OR PETITIONER is as follows to-wit: WHEREFORE, MR. BRISCOE REQUESTS THAT DEFENDANT BE CITED TO APPEAR AND ANSWER AND THAT ON HEARING THE COURT ENTER JUDGMENT: 1. DETERMINING THE SHARE OF EACH JOINT OWNER OF THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN. 2. MR. BRISCOE SEEKS A DETERMINATION THAT SUCH PROPERTY AND THE SALE PROCEEDS THEREFROM BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE PARTIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THEIR RESPECTIVE INTERESTS IN THE PROPERTY AND RETAINING SUFFICIENT FUNDS TO PAY ANY TAXES OR FEES. 3. APPOINTING A RECEIVER TO SELL THE PROPERTY AT A PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SALE, FOR CASH, SUBJECT TO CONFIRMATION BY THIS COURT UPON SWORN REPORT OF SUCH SALE. 4. ORDERING DEFENDANT TO REIMBURSE MR. BRISCOE FOR ONE-HALF (1/2) OF THE EXPENSES RELATED TO THE PROPERTY FROM JULY 2014, UNTIL DATE OF JUDGMENT TO MR. BRISCOE. 5. AWARDING MR. BRISCOE RECOVERY OF COSTS, FEES, INTEREST AND SUCH OTHER RELIEF TO WHICH MR. BRISCOE MAY BE JUSTLY ENTITLED. If this Citation is not served, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued under my hand and seal of said Court, at Richmond, Texas on this the 21st day of December, 2018.

ANNIE REBECCA ELLIOTT, DISTRICT CLERK FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS Physical Address: 1422 Eugene Heimann Circle, Room 31004 Richmond, Texas 77469 Mailing Address: 301 Jackson Street Richmond, Texas 77469 BY: Deputy District Clerk Salena M. Jasso Phone: 281-341-3787

ity.

Mazda’s infotainment system comes with a 7-inch color touch screen, commander control, Aha, Pandora, Stitcher, internet radio integration, text message audio delivery and reply, automatic emergency notification. It also has a USB audio input and steering wheel mounted audio, phone and cruise controls.

The optional sport package includes brake support, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert.

I recommend getting it on all vehicles and especially on a car the size of the Miata.

Other optional equipment on the test drive included a black roof, alloy pedals, sport tuned suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and stainless door sill trim plates.

All of these add-ons along with delivery, processing and handling fees, hiked the MSRP to $35,905.

Do I like the Miata? Absolutely and always have. It got my attention some years ago and still does because it’s a whole bunch of fun.

Pet Awareness Day

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Creekstone Village at Riverstone, Section 9, Precincts 2 and 4.

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.

black finish and the 17-inch P205/45R17 tires are high performance.

Inside the cozy Miata is air conditioning, heater/defroster with multiple speed fan, power windows, rear glass window with defogger, heated power side window, rain sensing windshield wipers, rear glass window with defogger, auto-dimming driver side mirror, power door locks with speed sensor, LED headlights and taillights, daytime running lights, body-colored front, rear bumpers and door handles and a rear mounted mast antenna.

There is also cruise control, keyless entry and start, push button ignition, remote trunk lid release, tilt and telescoping steering column, vanity mirrors, overhead light with dimming, locking rear center console, leather wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel, shift knob and parking brake handle, driver foot rest and padded armrests.

The entertainment is a Bose AM/FM 9 speaker audio system with audio pilot. It has Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming capabil-

CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE By virtue of an Order of Sale dated DEC 11, 2018, delivered pursuant to a Judgment issued out of the 268th District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, said judgment rendered in favor of THE COMMONWEALTH CIVIC ASSOCIATION, INC., plaintiff, and against Zhi Zhou Zhang and Yue Liu, defendant, in Cause No. 18-DCV-250092, for the sum of EIGHTTHOUSAND-FIVE-HUNDRED-THIRTYTWO DOLLARS AND–FOUR-CENTS 4/100’s ($8532.04), plus fees for posting notices, publishing, and all costs of executing sale.

I did on the 28TH day of DEC, 2018, at 11:00 AM, levy upon the following described tract of land in Fort Bend County, Texas, as the property of Zhi Zhou Zhang and Yue Liu, defendant(s), to-wit: LOT SIX (6), IN BLOCK TWO (2) , OF BRIDGEWATER SECTION TWO (2), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NOS. 1182/B AND 1183/A,OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 4523 DEVONSHIRE STREET SUGAR LAND, TX 77479 and on FEB 5, 2019, being the first Tuesday of said month, between the hours of 10:00 o’clock a.m. and 4:00 o’clock p.m., at 301 JACKSON ST, FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG RICHMOND TX. I will offer for sale and sell at public auction for cash, all the right, title and interest of Zhi Zhou Zhang and Yue Liu, defendant, in and to said property.

LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG., 301 JACKSON ST 1ST FLR MEETING RM, RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: FEB 5 2019 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 AM BY Sergeant M. Kutach TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas

NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 268TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on JANUARY 2, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, in the case of CITY OF NEEDVILLE, ET AL VS. RAYMOND GEORGE ZUREK, JR., ET AL in Cause# 17-DCV-238571 and to me, as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 5th day of February, 2018, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room, 301 Jackson Street, Richmond Texas 77469-3108 of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT I: GEO: 1540000010010906 LOT(S) ONE (I), IN BLOCK ONE (1), OF THE BERNSHAUSEN SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION COMPRISED OF 4.49 ACRES, OUT OF THE H. & T. C. R. R. SURVEY NO. 26, ABSTRACT NO. 756, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS. Levied on January 3, 2019 as the property of RAYMOND GEORGE ZUREK JR., KAREN SUE ZUREK to satisfy a judgment amounting to $12,094.60, representing delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees through the date of judgment, plus all costs of court, costs of sale, and post judgment penalties and interest recoverable by law in favor of NEEDVILLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT; CITY OF NEEDVILLE; FORT BEND COUNTY DRAINAGE DISTRICT; FORT BEND COUNTY GENERAL FUND AND WHARTON COUNTY JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICT. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on January 3, 2019.

Fort Bend County Mike Beard CONSTABLE FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS

By John Morales Deputy

PUBLIC LIVE AUCTION FORT BEND COUNTY 4310 Hwy 36 S., Rosenberg PREVIEW: Fri., 1/18/19 AUCTION ENDS: Tues., 1/22/19 FEATURED ITEMS Horse Stall Panels, Cattle Tie Racks, Hanging Hay Feeders, Chain Link & Pipe Gate, Light Casings, A/C Units, Gas Heaters, Pallet Rack Cross Beams, Asstd. Sheet Metal, Small Livestock Panels & Gates – No B.P. www.fortbendauction.com www.onlinepros.com #7341 (800)243-1113 OR (281)357-4977 NOTICE OF CONSTABLE SALE THE STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF FORT BEND By virtue of an Order of Sale issued out of the Honorable 240TH DISTRICT COURT of FORT BEND County on JANUARY 2, 2019 by the Clerk thereof, FORT BEND COUNTY vs.

ALONZO JOHNICAN, JR., ET AL in Cause# 14-DCV-217725 and to me as CONSTABLE directed and delivered, I will proceed to sell, at 10:00 0’ Clock AM on the 5th day of February, 2018, which is the first Tuesday of said month, at the William B. Travis Building, First Floor Meeting Room, 301 Jackson Street, Richmond Texas 774693108 of said FORT BEND County, in the City of RICHMOND, Texas, the following described property, to wit: TRACT 1: GEO: R388123/ 0085-11-0013200-903. An undivided 16.67 percent interest in and to a tract or parcel containing an aggregate of 29.71 acres, more or less, located in the Shelby, Frazier and McCormick League, Abstract 85 in Fort Bend County, Texas; and consisting of the following portions. A) a tract or parcel containing 14.56 acres, more or less, described in a deed recorded in Volume 198, Page 622 of the Deed Records of Fort Bend County, Texas and shown as Tract 5 on the plat of the Subdivision of the Nellie Johnson Estate 180 acres recorded in Volume 4, Page 11 of the Plat Records of Fort Bend County, Texas; B) a tract or parcel containing 15.15 acres, more or less, described in a deed recorded in Volume 340, Page 214 of the Deed Records of Fort Bend County, Texas and shown as Tract 5 on the plat of the Subdivision of the Nellie Johnson Estate 90 acres on the plat recorded in Volume 339, Page 556 of the Deed Records of Fort Bend County, Texas.

Levied on January 3, 2019 as the property ALONZO JOHNICAN JR.; JOYCENETT JOHNICAN AKA JOYCENETI SNELL JOHNICAN; RENATA M. PAYNE AKA RENATA PAYNE KHAWAJA to satisfy a judgment amounting to $7,845.22, representing delinquent taxes, penalties, interest, and attorney’s fees through the date of judgment, plus all costs of court, costs of sale, and post judgment penalties and interest recoverable by law in favor of BRAZOS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, FORT BEND COUNTY. ALL BIDDERS MUST COMPLY WITH SECTION 34.015 OF THE TEXAS PROPERTY TAX CODE. Given under my hand on January 3, 2019.

Mike Beard CONSTABLE FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS

By John Morales Deputy

A circus-themed pet awareness initiative created through the Animal Services, Financial Services and Communications teams to educate residents on the importance of pet care and ownership will be held Saturday, Jan. 26 from noon to 3 p.m. at Missouri City Animal Shelter, 1923 Scanlin Rd. The first-time initiative will feature various vendor booths, pet education materials and talks, a photo booth, pet and human- friendly refreshments, adoptable pets and Adoption Success Stories from MCTX Animal Services.

“This event will educate citizens on public health matters such as rabies control, animal behavior and bite prevention,” said Pooch P.A.D. representative TaBorah Goffney. Pooch P.A.D. representative Ireyan Clark – Sam added that: “We wanted to plan this event to celebrate our new addition (Pharaoh Kennedy) coming into our lives, and also, to highlight other successful pet pairings and show the importance of proper pet care and ownership.”

Event partners include Bahama Bucks, Wishbone Pet Care, Fondren 5 Star, Sienna @ 6 Veterinary Hospital, Sienna Plantation Animal Hospital, Small Cakes Rosenberg and 4 Paws Gourmet Dog Treats.

“Partnerships are important when planning an event of this magnitude,” said Pooch P.A.D. representative Adrianna Nixon.

“I’m excited to be a part of this fun and educational event dedicated to the betterment of our furry friends!”

Fort Bend County Master Gardeners 2019 Fruit Tree Sale

The Fort Bend County Master Gardeners will hold their annual Fruit Tree Sale on Saturday, February 9th, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. until noon. The sale will be held in the George Pavilion at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds in Rosenberg.

In Fort Bend County, we are fortunate that we can grow several types of fruit trees, from apples and plums to many varieties of citrus and even tropicals and semi-tropicals. The Fort Bend County Master Gardeners sell trees that are highly adapted to our climate and with proper care should grow well and produce fruit for many years to come. Fruit trees are a welcome addition to any landscape and can provide color, fruit and beauty to your yard.

This year, we will offer new varieties of citrus and other fruits that have not been available at our previous sales, from Australian Finger Limes and Sanguinelli blood oranges to new blueberry varieties and Arabica coffee, among others. Please visit our website, fbmg.org, for more information.

All proceeds from this sale are used to support the educational programs we offer throughout the year. This sale helps us purchase supplies for our training and educational efforts, as well as demonstration garden plants and materials.

CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given, that by virtue of a certain Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 400TH District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas on Dec 3, 2018 in cause numbered 17-DCV-244555 styled Summerfield Estates Homeowners Association, Inc.. vs. SYED H.R. ZAIDI., in which a judgment was rendered on FEB 8, 2018 in favor of Summerfield Estates Homeowners Association, Inc. for the sum of Four thousand Three Hundred Fourteen Dollars and Twelve Cents ($4314.12); 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 Dec 19, 2018 and will on Feb 5, 2019 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 SYED H. R. ZAIDI to and in the following described Real Property LOT SEVENTY-ONE (71), IN BLOCK ONE(1) SUMMERFIELD,SECTION SIX(6), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS,ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NO(S).1753/B OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS,MORE COMMONLY DESCRIBED AS 17131 FAIRWAYGLEN COURT. SUGAR LAND, TX 77498. The above sale to be made by me to satisfy the above described judgment in favor of Summerfield Estates Homeowners Association, Inc. Plaintiff, and the proceeds applied to the satisfaction thereof.

LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG., 301 JACKSON ST 1ST FLR MEETING ROOM, RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: FEB 5 2019 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 AM BY Sergeant M. Kutach TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas

CONSTABLE’S NOTICE OF SALE By virtue of an Order of Sale dated Nov 29, 2018, delivered pursuant to a Judgment issued out of the 400th District Court of Fort Bend County, Texas, said judgment rendered in favor of THE COMMONWEALTH CIVIC ASSOCIATION, INC., plaintiff, and against Nick R. Demeris and Helen M. Demeris, defendant, in Cause No. 18-DCV-248781, for the sum of TEN-THOUSAND-–ONE-HUNDREDNINETY-ONE DOLLARS AND 96/100’s CENTS ($10191.96), plus fees for posting notices, publishing, and all costs of executing sale. I did on the 17TH day of DEC, 2018, at 11:00 AM, levy upon the following described tract of land in Fort Bend County, Texas, as the property of.

HELEN M. DEMERIS, defendant(s), to-wit: LOT 14, IN BLOCK 1 , OF COMMONWEALTH ESTATES SECTION TWO (2), A SUBDIVISION IN FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN SLIDE NOS. 1173/B AND 1174/A,MAP AND OR PLAT RECORDS OF OF FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 4518 ST MICHAELS CT SUGAR LAND, TX 77479 and on FEB 5, 2019, being the first Tuesday of said month, between the hours of 10:00 o’clock a.m. and 4:00 o’clock p.m., at 301 JACKSON ST, FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG RICHMOND TX. I will offer for sale and sell at public auction for cash, all the right, title and interest of HELEN M. DEMERIS, defendant, in and to said property.

LOCATION: FORT BEND COUNTY TRAVIS BLDG., 301 JACKSON ST 1ST FLR MEETING RM, RICHMOND, TX 77469 DATE: FEB 5 2019 TIME: APPROX. 11:00 AM BY Sergeant M. Kutach TREVER J. NEHLS Constable Pct. 4 Fort Bend County, Texas

INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 16, 2019 • Page 7

NEWS

Fort Bend County District Attorney’s new leadership team

Xavier Alfarto, Deputy Chief, General Misdemeanor Division

District Court Chief Lisa P. Gregg First Assistant Ibrahim Elias Khawaja Ibrahim Elias Khawaja of Sugar Land, is the founder of Khawaja Law Firm PLLC. Before founding his private defense firm, Mr. Khawaja served the Harris County District Attorney’s Office as an assistant district attorney. Mr. Khawaja excelled professionally and gained a unique perspective on the criminal justice system.

As a chief prosecutor, Mr. Khawaja was the lead prosecutor and managed the cases and prosecutors assigned to his court. He was also given the responsibility of training and developing newly hired prosecutors.

Mr. Khawaja has handled thousands of criminal cases and obtained countless successful verdicts in County, District, and Federal courts. As a criminal defense attorney, Mr. Khawaja has been recognized on multiple occasions for his top-rate services. He has been recognized as one of H Texas Magazine’s Houston’s Top Lawyers from 2011 - 2018, and he has also received the 2012, 2014, and 2015 Avvo Clients’ Choice Award under the Criminal Defense category.

Chief, Family Violence Division , Chad Bridges Judge Chad Bridges began his legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in Harris County in 1994. In that position, he handled postconviction death penalty litigation on behalf of the State of Texas. After his assignment in the Appellate Division of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office ended, Bridges transferred to the Trial Bureau and prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases, including an assignment with the Family Criminal Law Division.

Bridges subsequently became the First Assistant District Attorney for the Waller County Criminal District Attorney’s Office. During his tenure in Waller County, he helped to create a Family Violence Division as well as a Narcotics Taskforce. In 2000, Bridges left the criminal law arena to become Legal Counsel for Computer Sciences Corporation. However, the call to public service led him back to representing the people of the State of Texas. He joined the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office as an Assistant District Attorney and was the Chief of the Family Violence

Traci Bennett, Chief, General Misdemeanor Division

Chad Bridges Chief, Family Violence Division

Mark H. Hanna, Deputy Chief, General Felony Division

Chief, General Felony Division, Brad Hart

Division when Governor Abbott appointed him as judge of the 240th District Court after Judge Thomas R. Culver III retired in 2015.

Appellate Attorney Baldwin Chin Baldwin Chin has been a prosecutor for over 25 years having worked in Harris and Galveston Counties prior to coming to Fort Bend County.

For 20 of those years, Chin represented the State of Texas in post-conviction proceedings, including writs of habeas corpus, DNA investigations, expunctions and non-disclosure proceedings.

Chin developed Harris County’s first conviction integrity unit. During his tenure supervising that unit, Chin oversaw hundreds of innocence investigations as well as the exoneration of four convicted defendants. Chin also served as a member of a Texas Forensic Science Commission panel which investigated the accuracy of hair microscopy testimony. In addition to his post-conviction experience, Chin served as a felony trial bureau prosecutor for Harris County.

Mr. Chin obtained his civil engineering degree from Texas A&M University in 1988 and a law degree from Vermont Law School in 1992.

Chief, General Felony Division, Brad Hart Judge Brad Hart grew up in the East Texas town of Athens.

After graduating from Baylor University in 1993, he worked as an intern in the Henderson County District Attorney’s office and served as the county’s Teen Court Administrator.

In 1994, Judge Hart moved to Houston to begin law school at South Texas College of Law and graduated in 1997. After taking the bar exam in 1997, Judge Hart was hired by Harris County District Attorney Johnny Holmes as a prosecutor. He served in several areas after joining the DA’s office, including Deputy Chief of the Misdemeanor Division, Justice Court Section Chief, Family Violence Division, Crimes Against Children Division, Organized Crime Unit, Major Narcotics/Major Offenders and in several felony district courts.

In April of 2006, Judge Hart was promoted to Felony District Court Chief after securing the conviction of a man who shot a Houston Police officer in the face. As a prosecutor, Hart handled thousands of cases, the majority of them felony cases. He tried over 100 jury trials, including securing trial convictions in six capital murders and obtaining one death sentence. In 2012, Judge Hart was named Prosecutor of the Year by the Texas Narcotics Officers Association. Judge Hart was appointed to the 230th District Court in Harris County by Governor Greg Abbott in 2013, where he served as Presiding Judge until joining the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office.

Felony Prosecutor Madison Limbacher Since being licensed in 2015, Madison Limbacher served as an assistant district attorney for Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office. She has been assigned to the General Misdemeanor and Intake divisions.

Madison graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Arts in International and a Juris Doctor Law Degree. Mrs. Limbacher has demonstrated a true passion for litigation.

Justice of Peace Court Prosecutor Tangerlia Taylor-Felton Tangerlia Taylor-Felton graduated from the University of Houston in 1982. She received her law degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 1989. Mrs. TaylorFelton was employed as an assistant district attorney for the Harris County District Attorney’s Office where she litigated criminal matters in county and district courts. Thereafter, she was employed as a staff attorney for Metropolitan Transit Authority before establishing her own law firm. Most recently, Mrs. Taylor-Felton was employed as a municipal court prosecutor for the cities of Sealy, Fulshear, West Columbia, and San Felipe.

District Court Chief Lisa P. Gregg Lisa P. Gregg has worked in the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office since 2008. During that time, she has been the Deputy Chief of the Misdemeanor Division where she assisted in the supervision and training in all aspects of trial work for the twelve prosecutors who were assigned to handle the prosecution of misdemeanor criminal cases in the six County Courts at Law

Tameika Carter, Mental Health Division Attorney

Appellate Attorney Baldwin Chin

Edward Gordon, Jr. Chief Investigator

First Assistant Ibrahim Elias Khawaja

Felony Prosecutor Madison Limbacher

Justice of Peace Court Prosecutor Tangerlia Taylor-Felton

Deputy Chief, General in Fort Bend County.

Previously, Ms. Gregg was Felony Division Mark H. Hanna Deputy Chief of the Child Mark Hanna graduated from Abuse Division. In that role, she assisted in the supervision South Texas College of Law of a team of felony prosecutors in May of 1993 and began working as an assistant district assigned to the Division. attorney in August of 1994. He has been an assistant district atDeputy Chief, General Misdemeanor torney in Fort Bend County for approximately 21 years.

Division Xavier Alfaro He was assigned as Chief of Xavier Alfaro is a former assistant district attorney for Har- the Narcotics and Gang Diviris County. Mr. Alfaro handled sion for the Fort Bend County felonies and misdemeanors and District Attorney’s Office in served as a chief prosecutor in 2003 until December 2018. He two of Harris County’s mis- has tried over 80 misdemeanor demeanor courts. Mr. Alfaro and felony trials including capigraduated from the University tal murder. of Texas with a Bachelor of Arts in Government. He obtained this law degree from St. Thomas University School of Law.

Chief Investigator Edward Gordon, Jr. Ed Gordon has been employed by the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office as an investigator since January 2015. Mr. Gordon is a graduate of Mountain State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration. He is also a graduate of the Harris County Sheriff’s Academy, and the National FBI Academy.

Gordon has 42 years of law enforcement experience, including investigations and management. During his career, Chief Gordon has received several awards from the 100 Club for outstanding performance.

Position Available – Housekeeping

Chief, General Misdemeanor Division Traci Bennett Traci Bennett has been a prosecutor for over twenty-one years. She served for sixteen years as an Assistant District Attorney with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Her last position was as the Chief of the Sex Crimes Division, but she also served as a Division Chief in the Trial Bureau, Division Chief of the Intake Division, HCDA Training Coordinator, and as the Chief Prosecutor in multiple Harris County District Courts.

Prior to her position in Harris County, Ms. Bennett served as an Assistant District Attorney in Caddo Parish, Shreveport, Louisiana, for six years where she served as the Section Chief of a felony court.

In her prosecution career, Ms. Bennett has first chaired over 100 jury trials, many of which were murder and capital murder cases, and multiple adult and child sexual assault cases in both Texas and Louisiana.

Mental Health Division Attorney Tameika Carter Tameika Carter graduated from Thurgood Marshall School of Law with honors in 2004. After being admitted to the Texas Bar, she served the citizens of Texas by working as an Assistant District Attorney for over 10 years in the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office and the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.

Ms. Carter has gained extensive jury trial experience over the years. She has handled misdemeanors, felonies, and mental health cases.

Monday-Friday 8-4:30pm; Full time position,experienced housekeeper.

Plantation at Quail Valley Senior Living 2815 cypress point Dr. Missouri City, TX 77459 281-208-4470

PLANTATION at Quail Valley Active Senior Living; Embracing the lives of Seniors 55 and Better

2815 Cypress Point Dr, Missouri City, TX 77459 www. plantationqv.com

Phone: (281) 208-4470

Page 8 • INDEPENDENT • JANUARY 16, 2019

JANUARY IS SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION MONTH

Thank you for all you do to ensure our District is the Best in Texas!

Jason Burdine

Addie Heyliger

Dave Rosenthal

Grayle James

Jim Rice

Kristin K. Tassin

President Position 1

Vice President Position 6

Secretary Position 7

Position 2

Position 3

Position 4

STRUGGLING WITH BACK OR NECK PAIN Living with back or neck pain can be difficult. Whether you’ve experienced pain n for a few days or a number of years, you want answers and effective treatment, and you want them now.

The Houston Methodist Neuroscience & Spine Center offers access to world-class specialists and subspecialists, including: • Neurologists • Neurosurgeons • Orthopedic spine surgeons • Pain management specialists • Physical and occupational therapists • Primary care sports medicine specialists Our team of board-certified physicians and rehabilitation therapists will work together to provide the comprehensive, personalized care you need to help you return to a productive life.

Expedited appointments and second opinions are available.

STOP ENDURING PAIN. Request an appointment online at houstonmethodist.org/neuro-sl or call 281.274.7979.