Fort Bend Independent 051116

VOL 9 No. 19

email: editor@ independent.com

www.fbindependent.com ww .fbindependent.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11, 2016

Phone: 281-980-6745

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

Official newspaper of Fort Bend County, Missouri City & Sugar Land

Sugar Land mayoral race in runoff; Missouri City mayor re-elected

THE WINNERS: Sugar Land At-large Position 1 Councilman Himesh Gandhi, left, Missouri City Mayor Allen Owen, Missouri City At-large Position 1 Councilman Jerry Wyatt and Fort Bend ISD Trustee David Rosenthal.

BY BARBARA FULENWIDER Sugar Land councilmen Harish Jajoo and Joe Zimmerman ran for mayor with three other on May 7 and is now in a run-off election on June 11.

Zimmerman, Sugar Land’s current At-large Position 2 councilman, received 3,388 votes or 41.06 percent of the total votes cast, and Jajoo, District 4 councilman, received the second most votes with 2,846 or 34.49 percent.

Other opponents in the race were Myatt Hancock, with 1,582 or 19.17 percent of the votes, Kyle Stanley, 230 for 2.79 percent, and Sarwar Khan, 206 for 2.50 percent.

Mayor Jimmy Thompson could not run for mayor again because he is term limited.

Candidates for Sugar Land’s At-large Position 1 seat were incumbent Himesh Gandhi, who won with 4,485 votes or 56.27 percent.

Challenger Diana Miller received 3,485 votes for 43.73 percent of the total votes cast in that race.

Four candidates ran for the At-large Position 2 race.

Mary Joyce and Naomi

Lam got the most votes and will be in the run-off election in June.

Joyce got 3,427 votes or 46.51 percent to Lam’s 2,555 or 34.68 percent.

Challenger Ron Block got 702 votes for 9.53 percent and Peter J. Simons received 684 votes or 9.28 percent.

Missouri City Missouri City voters kept long-time Mayor Allen Owen in office. He beat hopeful, Fred Taylor, with 3,058 or 59.41 percent of the total votes to Taylor’s 2,089 or 40.59 percent.

Incumbent Jerry Wyatt won his election to continue representing all Missouri City citizens as their At-large Position 1 council member.

Wyatt ran against hopeful Pernell Davis and beat him with 3,032 votes (61.12 percent) to Davis’s 1,929 (38.88 percent).

Three candidates ran for Missouri City’s At-large Position 2. The incumbent, Chris Preston, received the most votes with 1,840 or 37.41 percent.

Cynthia Gary followed with 1,548 or 36.48 percent and Susan Soto got 1,530 or 36.11 percent of the votes.

The run-off election on June 11 will determine if Preston or Gary gets the Position 2 job.

The Fort Bend Independent School District held two elections for the district’s third and seventh board seats.

The election for District 3 had only the incumbent, Jim Rice, running but the second race for District 7 drew five hopefuls.

The top vote getter for the District 7 board position Dave Rosenthal won with 4,639 votes or 33.97 percent.

His nearest rival,Shirley Rose-Gilliam with 3,242 or 23.74 percent.

Others in the race, Laura Ramirez, came in third with 2,450 votes for 17.04 percent; James Davidson, fourth, with 2,151 votes or 15.75 percent, and Sonja Nelson Leonard with 1,175 votes or 8.60 percent of the total vote.

Sugar Land Charter Five of the eight propositions on Sugar Land ballots passed. Propositions 2, 7 and

Exchange Club’s ‘Student of the year’ Congratulations Han Wen Zhang from Clements High School for being honored as of the “Student of the Year” by The Exchange Club of Sugar Land. Han Wen is not only an AP National Scholar, but is fluent in English, Chinese and French. She has been issued a diploma of proficiency by The French Ministry of National Education and has taught French at Colony Bend Elementary School. Han Wen won 1st place in the Clements HS Texas French Symposium in the individual experienced division.

She is President of the French National Honor Society and in the past has been the president of the French Club.

She won the Gold Seal (top 1%) in Texas for her Artwork which traveled on exhibition for a year. She was a recipient of the Houston Mayor’s Art Schol-

arship among other art awards.

She volunteers at Sugar Land Harman Senior Center where she teaches art to senior citizens.

She has also worked on art projects with DePelchin Center and Advocates of Healthy Minds in Fort Bend.

During the month of October 2015, she displayed her artwork at the University Branch Library in Sugar Land. Her art website is www.studiohanwen. com/ Han Wen has debated pressing issues at “Model United Nations” conferences and serves on the student council of the Global Studies Academy at Clements High School. She stated in her essay that “America is only as strong as she is united.

As a speaker of multiple languages, I would have the ability to represent and facilitate communication between diverse

viewpoints.”

Exchange Clubs around the U.S. select outstanding students each month from local Middle and High Schools. One outstanding student is selected each year to participate in District and National Exchange Club contests for scholarships.

For more information about Exchange Club of Sugar Land, join us for breakfast at Sweetwater Country Club Wednesday’s at 7:00 AM or visit www. ecsl.org/ PHOTO: Han Wen Zhang of Clements High School was honored as Exchange Club of Sugar Land’s Student of the Year. She was introduced by Sugar Land Council Member Amy Mitchell and ECSL President-Elect Carlos Perez.

8 did not while Propositions 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 did.

The three propositions that failed were the most controversial. Proposition 2 failed with 3,876 no votes to 3,597 yes votes. It asked voters to say whether they want council members and the mayor to continue to serve the current two years or three year terms and change the term limits from four consecutive terms in a nine year period to three in a 10 year-period. The limitations apply to one person holding any single position and would go into effect for district positions by May 2017 and for the mayor and At Large positions as of May 2018.

Proposition 7 failed with a vote of 3,328 for and 3,770 against. It asked if voters wanted amend the city charter by revising the required petition percentage for initiative and referendum from a number equal or greater than 30 percent of those voting in the last city election to at least 15 percent of registered voters in the city as of the initial petition date.

Voters also dunked Proposition 8 with a close vote of 3,599 against to 3,523 for. It also asked if they wanted to amend the city charter by revising the required petition percentages it takes to recall the mayor or an at-large council member from 25 percent to 15 percent of the registered voters of the city as of the initial petition date.

It also asked if they wanted to revise the required petition percentages to recall a single member district council member from 20 percent to 15 percent of the registered voters residing in the district as of the initial petition date.

Proposition 1 passed by 4,842 votes for and 2,343 against. It will now clarify that the city charter remains whole even if another section or sentence is declared unconstitutional. Voters also passed Prop 3 to have an election to fill city council vacancies that last more than 12 months.

Prop 4 passed 3,944 to 3,240 and clarifies city council’s powers to include exclusive jurisdiction over all public property in the city. Prop 5 also passed with 4,664 votes to 2,486. Voters on it said yes to the city charter being amended to add a new section titled “Interference with Management.” What that means is no city council member may interfere with the city’s daily operations or direct or give orders to any city officer or employee under the direction of the city manager.

Prop 6 was passed overwhelmingly with 5,555 yea votes to 1,625 nay votes. It was another amendment to the city charter to add definitions for the words and phrases regarding various ways to use city council to ensure consistency.

Stafford, Meadows Place and the Stafford Municipal School District did not have to hold elections.

See Inside Track: Election analysis, Page 4

Missouri City named AllAmerica City Award Finalist The National Civic League has announced Missouri City as one of 20 finalists for the 2016 All-America City Award (AAC). The City is one of only two Texas cities to earn the prestigious designation and the only one in the region.

The award, given to 10 communities each year, celebrates and recognizes neighborhoods, villages, towns, cities, counties, tribes and regions that engage residents in innovative, inclusive and effective efforts to tackle critical challenges.

“We are honored to have received this recognition and are excited to work alongside our many partners as we pre-

pare for the finalist presentation in June in Denver,” City Manager Anthony Snipes said.

“This award recognizes all of the amazing work our City partners have accomplished throughout this process, and we want to acknowledge all of the many partners that were vital to Missouri City’s application.”

In the City’s application, partners from AccessHealth, Fort Bend County Precinct 2, First Tee, Missouri City Green, the Mayor’s Youth Commission, Men for Change, regional businesses and developers, Fort Bend Independent See AWARD, Page 3

Page 2 • INDEPENDENT • MAY 11, 2016

Thank You!

May 7 was a proud day as friends and neighbors - our Sugar Land community - voted to re-elect me to the Sugar Land City Council.

I received so much help and encouragement during the campaign - from family, friends and even those I just met during the process. The contributions of every single person was a part of our victory.

First United Methodist Church presents in concert Houston Cecilia Chamber Choir and dynamic choral ensemble The Friends of the Arts rection.

Under the direction of perform works by Purcell, committee, First United Methodist Church, Missouri City Kevin Klotz, this Houston en- Schultz, Bach, Handel and welcomes for another return, semble is known for its exqui- other composers.

Concert is free to public... the Houston Cecilia Chamber site tone and beauty of musical love donations graciously acChoir on May 21, 5 p.m. in the phrase. cepted.

Come hear this fabulous church Chapel of the ResurLocation is 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City. Cross street, Murphy road.

For more details, call 281499-3502 or email; FriendsoftheArts@comcast.net.m

As I begin my third term on City Council, I know there is much to look forward to and also much to accomplish. I am excited and ready for the next two years as your representative!

Thank you for the trust you placed in me with your support and your vote. y Most Sincerely,

Himesh Gandhi Pol. adv. paid for by the Himesh Gandhi Campaign, Harris H. “Sonny” Johnston, Jr., Treasurer

I want to thank all of the voters of Missouri City for their participation and support in the May 7 election expressing their confidence in me and re-electing me as their Mayor.

—Allen Owen 3ROLWLFDO DG SDLG IRU E\ $OOHQ 2ZHQ IRU 0D\RU &DPSDLJQ

Thank You to the voters for your continued support and faith in me to serve the students, teachers, parents and the Community.

Missouri City City Council For qualified representation, ensuring a better future for Missouri City.

Experienced * Strong, fiscal accountability and a good steward of our tax dollars

I am honored to serve as Fort Bend ISD Trustee Position 3.

www.jimricefbisd.com

Trusted * Works to make diversity our strength

30 years of committed service on City Council

I thank Missouri City voters for their participation and support in the May 7 election. I thank the community for expressing its confidence and re-electing me. — Councilman Jerry Wyatt

Political Ad Paid for by Jim Rice Campaign, D. Suzanne Ramos, Treasurer

3ROLWLFDO DG SDLG IRU E\ -HUU\ :\DWW IRU FLW\ FRXQFLO &DPSDLJQ

Community news

MAY 11, 2016 • INDEPENDENT • Page 3

People have spoken; Candidates react Following the Saturday elections, some of the candidates for the Sugar land City Council responded with the following reactions: “I am incredibly thankful to the residents of Sugar Land for their faith in me. Their votes have taken me one step closer on my journey to be Sugar Land’s next Mayor. I will continue my campaign to keep Sugar land a great place to live, work and play. As a current council-member and former Chairman and member of the Planning & Zoning commission, I have a vision for Sugar Land’s future. Being prepared for more growth in anticipation of Greatwood’s and New Territory’s proposed future annexation and finding solutions to the aging infrastructure are priorities in my campaign. I look forward to sharing all my insights as Nancy and I continue forward on the campaign trail.”

-Joe Zimmerman, Sugar Land mayoral candidate I want to thank Sugar Land’s voters for their support and I am excited to be in the run off on 11 June 2016. This narrowed field will allow me to again focus my message: • A halt to runaway taxes. • Careful and restrained spending. • Planned growth that would improve our city … not overwhelm its resources. A cap of 200 multi family unit in a planned development (PD) is necessary along with the changes in the development code. • And most of all, a city government that listens to its people. I also welcome the opportunity to resume my travels through our city – meeting its people and listening to their concerns, their ideas, their vision of what kind of city we want to be.

—Harish Jajoo, Sugar Land mayoral candidate I thank the citizens of Sugar Land for their continued support. I’m excited about continuing my public service and I’m proud to represent each and every one of our Sugar Land residents. Sugar Land has voted for positivity and commitment, and candidates like myself who love and care about this city.

—Himesh Gandhi, Sugar Land Councilman, At-large Position 1 Sugar Land Votes’ received overwhelming support against the long-time, heavily funded incumbents and it demonstrates that Sugar Land residents are becoming aware of the real issues. Thank you to the 1582 voters who voted for Myatt Hancock, the 3485 voters who voted for Diana Miller and,the 2,555 voters who voted for Naomi Lam, placing her in the run off. We will be supporting Naomi as she moves forward. Diana’s 3485 votes exceeded the number who voted for Zimmerman (3388) and Jajoo (2846). Myatt and Diana will continue to fight for Sugar Land residents and ‘Sugar Land Votes’ will continue to grow so that we may support other community dedicated candidates in the future. Voters made a huge statement in rejecting the misleading petition charter change. We will continue to advocate for Sugar Land residents!

—Sugar Land Votes

ditures for the money include $270,000 for Staffordshire/ Stafford sidewalks, $200,000 for South Kirkwood, $1.425 million for FM 1092 at West Airport and a yet to be determined amount for Avenue E. The construction cost of $1.425 million for the West Airport at FM 1092 intersection improvement was approved so that amount comes out of the estimated total construction cost of the major corridor.

Emshoff said Stafford needs to budget 20 percent of the construction costs in the 20162017 budget because that will be its share of the project.

She also said the city and TxDOT now have 60 percent of the project plans but no firm amount of what it will cost Stafford. She said council will receive a funding agreement this summer.

She told council Stafford has to design any extras they may want, such as sidewalks, special lighting, landscaping, entry markers, etc., and then partner about construction.

“We can negotiate with TxDOT on those,” Emshoff said.

“The best numbers I can show you now is the almost $1.5 million for design, which will be a 20/80 split” with TxDOT paying 80 percent and the city paying 20. “The project is currently in design. We want to move it up from 2018 to 2017. ” Emshoff went on to say she thinks “this is a very good project to consider. Any development going on the former Texas Instrument property, we would hope will continue. We need to consider retail with traffic volume and the availability of the funds we have.”

After she finished her presentation, the mayor said, “This is a chance to transform 1092 from what it is to something like Westheimer. The project will cost up to $13 million. The cost to the city is $1.5 million. To get almost 90 percent of the funding from the state and county, to me, is the most favorable and beneficial project this city will be likely to do. This will do a lot of the

Award

From Page 1 School District, civic organizations and homeowners’ associations, were highlighted for the many innovative and community oriented programs they have founded, grown and flourished to make Missouri City worthy of All-America City status. Highlighting the many historic accomplishments and benchmarks throughout the City’s 60 years of incorporation, the City’s application focused on the municipality’s transformation from a bedroom community to one that offers prime business locations, how local leaders and community members have embraced dynamic diversity, and how many things residents have asked for programs within the City are a in terms of sidewalks, etc. success due to the multiple citi“One problem seems to be zen, commercial and volunteer that TxDOT and H-GAC want partnerships. to see it all the way from the “This award recognizes trail freeway (59) to Hwy. 6 but blazing efforts to bring resithey can’t get the support of dents, local government, busiHouston, Harris County or nesses and non-profit groups Missouri City. They have a together to tackle the most better chance of achieving that pressing local issues. We will we ever would. If we don’t be going to Denver, Colorado take advantage of this, we’ll be in June, and we will be taking throwing $1.5 million away.” our partners with us to make Emshoff then told council sure that we do a good sales and the mayor that H-GAC and job,” Missouri City Mayor TxDOT each need a letter from Allen Owen said at his annual the city regarding support for State of the City Address on the project. She said, “TxDOT Monday, April 25. has approved the study of it, “Our application showcased not the design but H-GAC and a wide range of commercial, TxDOT are excited about it. community and stakeholder They need a letter of support partnerships, including those written by the mayor.” She also with First Tee, Fort Bend Insaid a letter of support for the dependent School District, corridor project also needs to Fort Bend County Precinct 2, come from the Stafford P&Z AccessHealth, Homeowners’ and SEDC. Associations, Men for Change Mayor Pro-Tem Cecil Willis and Missouri City Green.” then said that $13 million “is a Missouri City Fundraising pretty significant project,” and On June 17 – 19, Missouri noted that Councilman Wen City staff and All-America City Guerra and former Council Award partners will compete Member Alicia Evans-Smith against teams of residents; “were very instrumental in this. leaders from nonprofit, busiWhen H-GAC first presented it ness, and government; and to me, it was a transformation.” young people from competing He also said that sidewalks communities to present their are now included in some of story and programs to a jury of TxDOT’s new projects. “Sidenationally recognized business, walks are included on both local government, and philansides of the road from one end thropic leaders to become one of Stafford to the other, which of 10 All-America City finalists. goes into the connectivity of it. The landscaping is what we’ll have to figure out and either provide for it or add to of 2016 goals, began by sayit outside of TxDOT because ing retail begets retail. “I’m they will let the contract for it.” so happy we are going to have He requested that P&Z have this. More and more cars are a special meeting to adopt taking this street every day. It’s support of the corridor reha- a shame this council did not bilitation and then send letters push for it long ago because of support for the project to it has great potential for us to Tx-DOT and H-GAC. The generate far more sales taxes newly built road, Willis said, from business. That’s what we “will change the dynamics of need. I’m so glad.

“If you don’t have a property the 1092 corridor just as 90A tax, you have to go after every was changed. I think hotels, retail.

I’m so glad it is happenrestaurants and retail will haping and thank you for doing pen quicker on it than it has everything and not spending a on 90A.” lot of money for it. We will get Councilman Ken Mathew, a much better space.” who requested adding the Councilman Robert Sorbet 1092 corridor to the city’s list

Murphy Road may become Stafford’s Westheimer

By BARBARA FULENWIDER The ball appears to be rolling on rebuilding FM 1092/ Murphy Road. The Texas Department of Transportation has completed the study on it and design is underway. When built, it is expected to transform the area, from Stafford’s eastern city limit to it’s western city limit.

The rebuilt corridor, which Mayor Leonard Scarcella says carries some 10,000 vehicles a day, is to be seven lanes with three in each direction, have a center turn lane and bike lanes going each direction.

Right now sidewalks aren’t included along the majority of the corridor but will be since Stafford residents want them.

Scarcella, at city council’s past April meeting, said, “I consider this, personally, to be the most important project this city may be looking at in the short term, at least, and maybe the long term.”

He also said the project has been presented to the Stafford Planning & Zoning commission and to the Stafford Economic Development Corp. and that P&Z wants to be included with council on the project.

The SEDC’s inclusion means more money will be available for additions to the project.

Christin Emshoff, Stafford project manager, presented highlights to council of the FM 1092 Access Management Corridor Study that was completed December 2013. Partners in the project are Houston-Galveston Area Council, TxDOT, Stafford and surrounding cities.

She said the project includes the entire FM 1092 corridor from U.S. 59 to Dove Country.

The estimated construction cost is from $10 million to $13 million. The FM 1092 West Airport intersection was awarded $1.425 million for construction and is currently being designed.

Emshoff said the money will come from what’s left of the Fort Bend County bond funds of $2.1 million that can only be used for mobility projects. So far Stafford’s planned expen-

Image courtesy of Missouri City. All America City Award Delegates pose during a meeting in Council Chambers. Pictured L – R: Randy Woods, Men For Change; Ebony Ghee, Mayor’s Youth Commission; Keryn Miles, Fort Bend ISD; Cory Stottlemyer, City of Missouri City; Rodney Toussaint, Men For Change; Doug Earle, First Tee; Joan Maresh, Fort Bend ISD; Margo Webb, Missouri City Green; Angie Wierzbicki, Fort Bend Cares and Missouri City Green Co-Founder; Adrianna Nixon, City of Missouri City; Charity Carter, Fort Bend Academy of Arts & Dance; Neethu Kalimkoottil, City of Missouri City; Stacie Walker, City of Missouri City; and Anthony J. Snipes, City of Missouri City.

Through workshops, Missouri City and representatives from its fellow finalists will share insights with innovators from across the country. The threeday event is every bit as much about learning and networking as it is about competing for the coveted All-America City title.

“All-America Cities are places where people are coming together to address important issues like youth success and racial equity,” said Doug Linkhart, the President of the National Civic League. “These cities and towns are harnessing the power of community to build their own future.

In the weeks leading up to the City’s Jury Presentation in June, Missouri City staff and a group of delegates, each representing a partner highlighted in the City’s award application, will be meeting to finalize an awards presentation and canvassing the City to raise trip and hotel funds.

“More than 50 delegates from Missouri City have dedicated to partner and present at the All-America City Award presentation in hopes of earning the City top honors, and any monetary donations from the public will be vital in ensuring that all partners will be present at the June celebration,” Mr. Snipes said. “Our presentation will include a variety of youth participants and performers from the Fort Bend Academy of Arts and Dance and from Missouri City Middle School AVID and Choir programs, under the guidance of Principal Jerrie Kammerman. Please contact the City and let us know how you would like to help out with the award process.”

Residents may also call 281.403.8500 for more information about the national presentation and how they may participate or donate.

The focus of the 2016 AllAmerica City Award is on communities that have taken innovative action to engage residents in ensuring that all children are healthy and supported to succeed in school and life.

The goal of the 2016 spotlight is to raise up local examples

said the city needs to coordinate with TxDOT “so we can put things underground. You actually can do underground conduits if you mark them as you put them in and going out. We should do that part separately.”

Then it was Councilman A.J. Honore’s turn to speak and he said, “It’s exciting to know this project is coming” and that the rebuilt 1092 shouldn’t look like the old. “Let’s make sure we are doing something really special for Stafford that will set us apart.” He said he wants drivers to know when they are entering and leaving Stafford

of innovative and effective community problem-solving that recognizes all influences on the success of children and inclusively uses all sectors to address those barriers.

“Each year we use an exten sive process with an expert jury to determine the All-America Cities,” said Linkhart.

“All-America Cities aren’t perfect. There’s no such thing as a perfect community. The award honors cities that mobi lize community partnerships to address local challenges. These stories inform and inspire other communities facing similar challenges.”

The finalists represent the diversity of American com munities from the largest cities to the smallest towns, from east to west and north to south Finalist communities include the 7th largest city in America (San Antonio) and a town of only 7,000 people (Hartsville South Carolina). But the 20 finalists share a common bond of working to ensure that all their youth are healthy and sup ported in school and life.

The 2016 All-America City Award Finalists: Avondale, Arizona Woodbury, Minnesota Marana, Arizona Las Vegas, Nevada Hayward, California Asheboro, North Carolina Indio, California Salisbury, North Carolina Whittier, California Charleston County, South Carolina Lakewood, Colorado Hartsville, South Carolina New Britain, Connecticut Missouri City, Texas Council Bluffs, Iowa San Antonio, Texas Fall River, Massachusetts Norfolk, Virginia Columbia Heights, Minnesota Brown Deer, Wisconsin

and “if we need to pull that out and do it separately, let’s do it.”

Council Member Virginia Rosas said she wants sidewalks and suggested that perhaps gray water could be used on the city’s landscaping along the corridor. She also gave kudos to the mayor and to Willis.

Willis then made a motion for P&Z to call a special meeting and approve writing a support letter for the project to TxDOT and H-GAC. His motion was seconded

by Sorbet and unanimously approved with a 7-0 vote.

Page 4 • INDEPENDENT • MAY 11, 2016

OPINION

AROUND THE NEWIGHBORHOODS

Issues and emotions have a fair share in Sugar Land elections Sugar Land voters, at least thSugar Land voters, at least those who cast their votes, appear to have studied issues and cast their votes based on knowledge rather than just emotion.

The pattern of voting in the last election suggests that issues played a significant part in decision-making with possible exceptions to this rule in two subdivisions.

By voting down three of the nine charter amendment propositions that were controversial and subject to debate, voters sent a message that they are really are watching the city government, even though they have expressed satisfaction with city services in recent opinion surveys.

Those who voted either in support of or opposed to the charter amendments do not fall into any single category as far as also supporting candidates.

For example, those who supported Joe Zimmerman for mayor did not appear to blindly vote in favor of the propositions because he supported the propositions. Similarly, all those who voted for Harish Jajoo for mayor, did not vote against propositions because Jajoo was not in favor of the controversial amendments.

Voter’s decision on charter amendments appear to have been based on the merits of each proposition and not on the basis of whether Zimmerman or Jajoo supported or opposed them.

The voting data this year also reveals some distinct opposing voting blocs in areas of the city.

Telfair on one side and Sugar Creek, on the other, are two of the largest voting blocs, but their voting preferences were diametrically opposite.

If Telfair is a city, Jajoo would be the mayor, while for Sugar Creek, Zimmerman would be the mayor.

In Telfair, Jajoo received 525 of the 921 total votes cast, followed by Myatt Hancock with 209 votes, and Zimmerman finished third with 153 votes. Kyle Stanley finished fourth place with nine votes and Sarwar Khan was last with 25.

In Sugar Creek, Zimmerman, who was a former Sugar Creek resident, received 458 of the total 663 votes cast followed by Jajoo with 121 votes. Hancock received 42 votes and Stanley, who is a Sugar Creek resident got 41 votes, while Khan drew a single vote.

Telfair is a newer subdivision with a larger concentration of people with Indian origin and has been nicknamed in some circles as ‘Patelfair.’ (Patel is the last name of a majority of people hailing from the Gujarat province. That may explain the high number of votes received

by Jajoo in that subdivision.)

Sugar Creek, on the other hand, is one of the oldest subdivisions in Sugar Land with a majority of Anglo residents and Zimmerman (also a former resident of Sugar Creek), received support there.

I am reluctant to attach any ethnic bias to voting patterns, especially since a long time Sugar Creek resident called me to discuss voting patterns and her comments led me to believe that Sugar Creek could have preferred one of their own just as Telfair residents did.

The caller, (who is Anglo), said she was chewed out by a neighbor for supporting Jajoo.

When she was asked why she was supporting a ‘foreigner’, she indicated that a major issue for her was the increasing tax burden on residents due to escalating property values and no offsetting with lower tax rates said the neighbor’s comments actually strengthened her support for Jajoo.

In the mayor election sixteen years ago, there was a north side / south side divide. People in north Sugar Land felt aggrieved saying the city was ignoring

Inside Track By Seshadri Kumar their needs and they were the oldest part of the city.

In that election, incumbent Mayor Dean Hrbacek who had led in bringing improvements such as the Town Center to Sugar Land, was defeated and David Wallace was elected mayor.

Subsequently, Wallace was involved in multiple controversies and charged with several ethical violations as most of his fellow council members remained silent spectators, with the exception of Councilman Russell Jones, who lost his mayoral bid eight years ago. The majority of Wallace supporters may have regretted their choice in retrospect and in private.

In any case, the current mayoral election shows Telfair joining with Commonwealth and Sweetwater areas to overwhelmingly supported Jajoo, while north Sugar Land and Sugar Creek supported Zimmerman.

The issues of apartments proposed for Telfair in a new zoning category of ‘urban’ in planned development zones and the reluctance of the planning and zoning commission in imposing a 200 unit cap on apartments in planned developments as suggested by city council and the rejection of ballot initiatives on charter amendments which would have altered the signature criteria for ballot initiatives were among the issues that dominated the election.

Myatt Hancock, Diana Miller and Naomi Lam ran on a platform opposing the petition changes.

The participation of Hancock and Lam may have impacted Zimmerman’s failure to gain an outright victory. Mary Joyce, in the At-Large Position 2 Council seat race, was also impacted and will face a runoff.

In the two person race for At Large Position 1 Council seat, incumbent Himesh Gandhi defeated his challenger Diana Miller, Miller’s loss or Gandhi’s victory could be attributed to more than one factor. It is too simplistic to say that people rejected the apartment issue or the petition drive by electing Gandhi.

Gandhi won with 4,485 votes to Miller’s 3,485. In other races, voters had to choose among four and five candidates. Notably, Miller received more votes than the mayoral candidates Zimmerman (3,388) and Jajoo (2,846).

This may indicate strong voter emotions on certain issues and members of Council should not ignore that possibility in future decision making.

As noted earlier, both Telfair and Sugar Creek played a part in Gandhi’s victory. He won support from Zimmerman supporters in Sugar Creek and from the Indian voters who supported Jajoo in Telfair.

Perceived as a part of the Zimmerman-Gandhi-Joyce slate, he benefited in Sugar Creek, and was not hurt in Telfair as his ethnicity was an added advantage.

Gandhi received 550 votes in Telfair, where he lives and that was 5 votes more than Jajoo received. In Sugar Creek, Gandhi got 412 votes, 46 votes less than that of Zimmerman.

Zimmerman finished with 41.06 percent of votes for Mayor despite the endorsement of the current mayor and several former council members, while his combined opponents got 59.94 percent.

Jajoo’s platform included part of Hancock’s platform and their tally of 34.49 percent plus 19.27 percent totals 53.76 percent.

That Sugar Land Votes group has made inroads into support of the incumbents is evident from the combined votes of Jajoo and

Hancock.

In the runoff election on June 11, Zimmerman will try to get his supporters to vote, while Jajoo will try to hold his base and draw more from the pool of votes of other three candidates for Mayor.

Issues will play a part in the runoff election and there is a real question of who will be the next mayor.

Missouri City Missouri City politics is a totally different ball game than in Sugar Land. Issues seem to missing in voter decision making and the contests appear to be more personality based.

The Democratic Party in general, and the African American community in particular, along the Texas Parkway corridor, have sought to elect a predominately black majority to city council, including a black mayor.

First, long time Mayor Allen Owen faced a total newcomer Fred Taylor, who has been more active in Houston politics than in Missouri City.

An active Democrat, Taylor got as much as 40 percent of the votes with the African-American voter base on the Texas Parkway corridor solidly supported him.

His campaign largely consisted of big campaign signs with his picture and nothing more.

But, if the Texas Parkway voters supported Taylor in large numbers, Quail valley and the First Colony area of Missouri City supported Owen.

At large Councilman Jerry Wyatt also faced an opponent from another African-American, a New Orleans native who moved to Missouri City after the Katrina disaster. Wyatt won with 61 percent of the votes.

In the other council race, incumbent Chris Preston faced two opponents, Susan Soto, an attorney, and Cynthia Lenton-Gary, a former African-American city council member. Now Peterson, also an African American and Gary are in the runoff.

Preston pulled off an upset victory over Danny Nguyen two years ago and in this race, the African-American votes are divided.

Missouri City has a 42% African American population and four of the seven council members are African Americans.

The city’s population is 69,000 and the racial makeup of the city is 24.9% non-Hispanic White, 0.4% Native American, 16.2% Asian, and 2.9% from two or more races.

Hispanic or Latino of any race are 15.3% of the population.

Fort Bend ISD There were no burning zoning issues this year for FBISD and only one of the two races was contested with incumbent David Rosenthal facing four opponents.

In the school board election, the candidate receiving the highest number of votes is declared elected. In Sugar Land and Missouri City, the winner should get more than 50 percent of the votes polled.

Thus, David Rosenthal with 34 percent of the votes won his reelection.

History of the House —III

By CAROLYN BOWDEN Where did the black people live in DeWalt?

They were all out around in the old Oilfield Road area. The houses were a typical house for those times. They were off the ground on blocks with steps going up. There was a small porch entry and inside was a living room with a fireplace, three bedrooms and a kitchen.

There was no bathroom, only an outhouse. The House was the only house that had indoor plumbing.

In the 1800s throughout the South wealthy landowners bought elegant brick mansions overlooking hundreds of acres of prosperous, rich farmland that produced cotton, corn, and sugar cane. It is my understanding that the Brazos Bottom was known to have some of the most fertile farmland due to the river for irrigation and the soil filled with fallen leaves over the years.

FATAL ATTRACTION One tragic result of the Dew Brothers involvement in the early Houston Rodeo may well have been to Frank Dew, who was a genial, good-looking “ladies man” who had no children of his own, but played Santa Claus at the Dew Estate for the Community at Christmas. Frank met his death after being shot by a scorned love interest, a rodeo circuit cowgirl, whom he met most likely through his involvement with the Houston Rodeo. On that fateful April night, she came to Frank’s River Oaks apartment in Houston and shot him when he answered the door.

EFFORTS TO LEASE VACATED HOUSE FAILED Muffle Moroney occupied The House for a few years with her husband and two young sons but, in the mid 1970’s, eventually settled in Houston.

Efforts to lease the house were not successful. Shortly after the turn of the Twenty-First Century, Moroney decided to sell the bulk of her inherited property, including the House lot, to the developers of a multi-thousand acreage development called Sienna Plantation.

In an attempt to salvage The House, the nonprofit Historic Houston was contacted.

The decision by Historic Houston was to raze and salvage portions of later additions to the house until only the “original” house remained.

This was done to enable an easier and less expensive move of the house.

Therefore, instead of tearing down the entire house for salvage a deal was soon made between Fort Bend County, the City of Missouri City and the Fort Bend County Museum Association.

HOW THE HOUSE DEAL EVOLVED? The cost was determined and The House was to be moved three miles down Highway 6, to property courtesy of Johnson Developers, adjacent

Bowden to a County Park. This was a MAJOR ORDEAL! The companies and organizations had never moved a two story house with two 12 foot plus stories and an attic?

The cost of diverting power

and phone lines and vehicular traffic along the busy artery of Highway 6 cost in excess of $100,000 and proved a logistical nightmare. However, despite the false starts and threats of salvage, the House arrived at its final destination adjacent to Kitty Hollow Park. Thereby, beginning a long renovation to its original state in March, 2008. Once restored, the House could then provide the now vanished DeWalt Community with a historic touchstone for gathering and remembering.

(To be continued on June 8.

Moving Down Highway 6) (NEXT COLUMN: May 25, ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE)

Book of Mormon Study Group Free study sessions focusing on the sermons and teachings of that Book of Mormon prophets - King Benjamin, Nephi, Alma, and Jacob about the Savior Jesus Christ. Join with us to study the second most popular book of scripture in the world today with over 150 million copies printed. This hour long class begins at 7:00 PM on Tuesday nights at 14555 Lexington Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77478. Call (713) 371-8979 for more information. The Book of Mormon has relevant teachings for life in today’s society concerning joy and forgiveness and how to attain them.

FOUNDATION REPAIR Lifetime Warranty

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Call Today: 713.797.8403

ABWA Fort Bend Monthly Meeting February 5, 2015 Quail Valley Country Club 2880 La Quinta Dr, Missouri City, TX Networking begins at 5:00 pm Start Your New Year With Networking!

Speaker: Debbie Elder Owner of Shady Oak Primary School in Wednesday, Richmond and Owner of May 18, 2016 “Set them up for success.”

For Reservations RSVP: Marilyn@nelson-marketing.com

Free Estimates

champion remodeling.net FORT BEND FAIR. BALANCED. INFORMATIVE.

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.

INDEPENDENT • MAY 11, 2016 • Page 5

AUTOMOBILE: Mazda MX-5

By BARBARA FULENWIDER One of the most fun-todrive vehicles I’ve ever had the pleasure of test driving arrived this past week. It’s the fourth-generation Mazda MX5, which came in pull-me-over red and a glamorous, curvy design.

The fourth-generation MX-5 features Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology and “Soul of Motion� design. The latest MX-5 has cut its curb weight, has human-centered design and even a more fun-to-drive feel. The handling is superb.

After 27 years and more than 950,000 Mazda MX-5 Miatas sold globally, the 2016 MX-5 continues to be a fun and aordable roadster.

At 2,332 lbs. (2,381 lbs. with six-speed automatic transmission), the 2016 MX-5 is approximately 150 lbs. lighter than the third-generation MX-5 and only 182 lbs. heavier than the original 1990 model.

That, along with Mazda’s torque-rich SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine and standard SKACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission the MX-5 now gets 25 percent more fuel-eďŹƒciency.

The EPA-estimated mpgs are 27/city and 36/highway.

The engine produces 155 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and

148 lb-ft of torque at 4,600 RPM. If you like tailpipes that speak, you’ll like what this MX-5 says as you gear up.

MX-5 was designed around its driver so pedals now fall in-line with the natural movement of the driver’s feet, the hood is lower and the windshield A-pillars are pushed back and made more upright for greater visibility. The MX5’s great looks are deďŹ ned by its long hood, short overhangs, cropped cabin pushed far back on the body and large wheels moved far forward.

The MX-5 roadster uses a double-wishbone front suspension and rear multilink setup. The body is designed to suppress deformation and diffuse impacts in the event of an accident. Additional reinforcements were added behind the seats.

Standard on all MX-5 models are air conditioning, pushbutton starter, a manual cloth convertible top, power door locks, USB input, Bluetooth wireless phone pairing and audio streaming, leather shift knob and CD player.

Entry MX-5 Sport and upper trims MX-5 Club and MX-5 Grand Touring all come with the option of a SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

MX-5 Sport models come

equipped with 16-inch wheels wrapped in 195/50R16 tires, cloth seats, a six-speaker audio system with an auxiliary jack and cruise control and keyless entry as standard when optioned with the automatic transmission.

Club models come with 17inch wheels with 205/45R17 tires, a limited-slip dierential on SKYACTIVMT models, Bilstein shocks, front air dam and rear lip spoiler, a shock tower brace on SKYACTIVMT models, piano black side mirror covers and seat back bars, MAZDA CONNECTTM infotainment system with seven-inch color touchscreen display and voice commands, multi-function commander control, HD radio, two USB inputs, smart keyless entry, a BOSE nine-speaker audio system with headrestmounted speakers and SiriusXM satellite radio.

Plenty of optional equipment is available. The 2016 MX-5 Miata Grand Touring has a MSRP OF $30,055 with all standard equipment.

Options included the “soul red� paint, keyless entry navigation system and sirius Sirius Satellite Radio, which increased the retail price to $31,495.

Driving the 2016 Miata will keep a smile on your face and bring joy to your heart.

New Eagle Scouts named in Troop 1845

Justin Lee, left, Joshua Ku, Kenneth Lin, Nerius Mehta, Congressman Pete Olson and Tristan Bauer Justin Lee, Joshua Ku, Ken- Pack 1882 at Commonwealth Boutique, which is a shop neth Lin, Nerius Mehta and Elementary School and com- that provides clothing and Tristan Bauer of Boy Scout pleted their Arrow of Light in other resources for mothers Troop 1845 received the rank 2010. Kenneth Lin started as and children in residence. His of Eagle Scout in a Court of a Webelos II in 5th grade with project allows better accessibility between the driveway Pack 1882.

Honor on April 30, 2016.

Their path to Eagle Scout and the boutique. Justin reThis is the highest rank awarded by the Boys Scouts involved numerous camping cruited, instructed and superof America. Congressman, nights, merit badges, leader- vised 14 Scouts and church Pete Olson, spoke at the cer- ship positions and service ac- youth to assist in the construcemony and presented a Con- tivities. As part of the Eagle tion of this walkway.

Joshua’s Eagle Project congressional Recognition to requirement, each Scout is required to complete a project sisted of the design and coneach Scout.

These young men, sopho- demonstrating planning skills struction of a Pop Tabs collection box for Clements High mores at Clements High and leadership.

Justin’s Eagle Project bene- School. The collection of soda School and Hightower High School, began their Scouting ďŹ ts the residents of the Grace- pop tabs beneďŹ ts The Ronald journey as Cub Scouts. Jus- wood Women’s Shelter with McDonald House. The Rontin Lee, Joshua Ku, Nerius the construction of a concrete ald McDonald House pop tabs Mehta and Tristan Bauer be- walkway that connects a cam- collection program teaches gan as Tigers in 2006 with pus driveway to Patti’s Place kids about philanthropy and

NEWS

Veteran law enforcement oďŹƒcer Paul Mosley retires Captain Paul Mosley celebrated his 30th year with the Fort Bend County Sheri’s OďŹƒce in April, but besides a lengthy career in law enforcement, Mosley’s life has been an extraordinary journey.

Mosley retired from the Sheri’s OďŹƒce April 29 and was honored with a reception at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy, but law enforcement was just one stop in his life, one ďŹ lled with a diversity in careers.

Though he was born in Greenville, Texas, Mosley was reared on a 52,000-acre ranch in California which was managed by his father.

His dad played Major League Baseball with the Washington Senators before moving to California, and baseball would play a role in Mosley’s life as a young man. He spent six years playing in the Los Angeles Angels (as the team was known then) organization as a pitcher.

Mosley never made it to the “Bigs,� but he made contacts in the Angels organization, most prominently with the Angels’ owner, Gene Autry, known then as “America’s Favorite Singing Cowboy.�

That led to a short career as an actor, though he never made a career out of it. “That was between (baseball) seasons,� he said. “Did you ever watch the show ‘Combat?’� he asked of the television series in the 1960s. “I bet I set a record for getting killed in one day. I got killed six times in one episode of ‘Combat.’�

Mosley worked in the ďŹ lm industry during those years, appearing in other television shows, including “My Favorite Martian,â€? and he met plenty of Hollywood’s stars, such as Chuck Connors of “The Riemanâ€? television series in the 1960s. “Steve McQueen and Clint Walker used to come out to the ranch and ride their motorcycles,â€? he said. “Jerry Lewis came to the Angels’ spring training. He’d put on a uniform and he actually was a pretty good athlete. “ But acting wasn’t paying the bills, so he moved on. And that led him back to Texas where he worked for Brani Airlines, starting in 1967. He worked his way up to the posithe importance of recycling.

Through this program, RMHC has raised thousands of dollars to give families a place to stay close by their hospitalized children at little or no cost.

Kenneth’s Eagle Project beneďŹ ted Colony Meadows Elementary School. He led Scouts in the painting of the mascot paw prints on the sidewalks and painting of squares, with the school initials, at the car pool line. The various colorful squares enable the teachers to direct students for an orderly pick up after school.

Nerius’ Eagle Project consisted of construction of a display shelving unit at the Zoroastrian Association of Houston. Placed outside the prayer room, this unit holds all the prayer books and prayer caps. Nerius led a group of ZAH members to assist in constructing of the shelves. It replaces an old and very small shelf with a much needed bigger unit.

Tristan’s Eagle Project consisted of the design and construction of a Shared Dreams box and a Box Top for Education collection box for Clements High School.

He designed and led 14 Scouts in the making of the two boxes. Shared Dreams beneďŹ ts those in need through collection donations of clothing, toiletry items etc.

Mosley tion of Director of Operations. “But I saw the writing on the wall in 1976 and left,â€? he said. Soon thereafter, Brani went out of business.

A few years later, in the early ‘80s, Mosley moved to Fort Bend County. His wife was from the West Columbia area so this was closer to home for her.

And here was where he got into law enforcement. “I think we were the ďŹ rst academy class in Fort Bend County,â€? he recalled. “You had to have 70 hours of training before you could become a reserve. So we did that, and then we went back to get 240 hours to become a full-time oďŹƒcer.â€?

In April, 1986, he became a full-time deputy at the Fort Bend County Sheri’s OďŹƒce.

Gus George was the Sheri at that time.

Like many deputies at the Sheri’s OďŹƒce, Mosley began in the jail, though he spent only a few months in that assignment. “I remember when, for the ďŹ rst time, we did a head count of inmates and it was 202 in the jail,â€? he said, “and that was the ďŹ rst time we had topped 200.â€?

By comparison now, the Fort Bend County Jail averaged 948 inmates in April and reached an all-time high with 1,130 inmates at one point in the month.

After serving in the jail, Mosley moved over to the Warrants unit and later to Pa-

trol. Under Sheri George Molina, he served on the Narcotics team. And, like most deputies, he has plenty of stories about life on the road as a Patrol deputy. “Most cops have stories about some of the things that happen on patrol, and then there are celebrities they have stopped or visited with at various functions,â€? said Mosley, who reached the rank of Sergeant in the Patrol Division. “Some were really jerks and some are really ďŹ ne people.â€?

Some of the names he mentioned included former Oilers quarterbacks Warren Moon and Giord Nielsen. “Sam Elliott was ďŹ lming a movie here and he would sit on some paint cans and eat lunch with the crew‌as normal as can be.â€?

Actually, Mosley has something in common with Elliott – they both have remarkably deep voices.

And that is part of Mosley’s future. Several years ago, he kicked o his “voiceâ€? career by recording “So the Sheri Hired a Dispatcher.â€? In the past couple of years, that short piece has had more than 264,300 hits on YouTube.

He recently recorded a similar piece, “I Am a Deputy Sheri.â€?

Mosley already has a daily program with his “Today in Texas.� Each day, a new Texas fact is delivered to subscribers online, from before the Battle at San Jacinto to present day Texas. It’s a free service and people can subscribe by contacting Mosley at modixie@ consolidated.net.

Mosley was surprised when Sheri Troy E. Nehls asked him to become the Captain over the Internal Aairs Division. But even the three and a half years as Captain, he said, helped him decelerate from being a Patrol deputy.

It helped him get away from the adrenalin rush that goes hand-in-hand with being on patrol.

As for the future, Mosley hopes to do more voice-overs.

He already has a website designed, ready to go. Co-workers, friends and family members attended the retirement event held in Mosley’s honor, helping him close his 30-year career in law enforcement.

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Page 6 • INDEPENDENT • MAY 11, 2016

FORT BEND REAL ESTATE

Anita Milne

Long Meadow Farms•$269,500•4/31/2/2

Knowledgeable! Experienced!

Hardworking!

Competitive!

Action Oriented!

MilneAnita@yahoo.com

281-413-9732 Beard Realty Group

Riverstone SL • $719,900 • 3/2-21/2/3

Meadows Place•Meadow Crest•4/2.5/2 Meadows Place•Bloomington• 3/2/2 Meadows Place • Dorrance • 3/2/2

$179,000

$269,000

Meadows Place • Dorrance • 4/2/2 Meadows Place • Meadowtrail • 4/2/2

$164,000 SOLD PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Falcon Landing Boulevard and Gaston Road Reserve, 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.

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk LEGAL NOTICE REQUESTS FOR STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS Sealed Qualification Statements will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, William B. Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, JUNE 2, 2016 AT 1:30 P.M. (CST). All submissions will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the firms made public. Submissions received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov Q16-092 – DESIGN/BUILD JONES CREEK RANCH ADMINISTRATION BUILDING A Pre-SOQ conference will be conducted on Thursday, May 19, 2016 at 10:00AM (CST). The prebid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Travis Annex at 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, Texas 77469. All bidders are encouraged to attend. A site visit will be conducted after the conference.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all qualification statements received. Successful firm will be required to provide bonds.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. CDs are available in the Purchasing Agent’s Office.

All addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

1. BID 16-089 – KATY GASTON ROAD FROM WESTPARK DRIVE (FM 1093) TO SUMMERSET RIDGE LANE: A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at 9:00AM (CST). The prebid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Travis Annex at 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, Texas 77469. All bidders are encouraged to attend 2. BID 16-090 – CONSTRUCTION AND WIDENING OF BELLAIRE BOULEVARD FROM EAST OF PARKWAY LAKES LANE TO LAKEHEAD LANE:

$249,000

The Arbor Day Foundation recently recognized Sugar Land as a 2015 Tree City USA community, the fifth consecutive year the City has received the prestigious distinction.

Four standards are considered for Tree City USA recognition, including an established tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, a community forestry program with annual expenditures of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

“Everyone benefits when PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plans for Grand Vista Springs Boulevard Street Dedication, Section 2 and Grand Vista, Section 13, 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.

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, June 7, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plans for Whisper Rock at Riverstone and Marble Bend at Riverstone, Section 3, Precinct 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.

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR SEALED COMPETITIVE PROPOSALS Sealed Competitive Proposals will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, MAY 26, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. CST). All proposals will then be opened in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 and the names of the proposers made public. Proposals received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitation and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www. fortbendcountytx.gov.

RFP 16-082 – AUCTIONEER SERVICES FOR COUNTY AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ASSETS Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

Signed: Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Richmond, Texas

Unit pricing required; payment will be by check. Bonds are required.

SOLD

Meadows Place • Scarcella • 3/2/2

SOLD

Sienna Plantation •$1,325,000•6/6.1/3 45SP

$184,500

elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Sugar Land make smart investments in urban forests,” said Matt Harris, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits.”

Sugar Land’s commitment to an extensive, healthy tree system can been seen in a number of projects, including the following: • The City recently annexed 754 acres of mostly inaccessible forest and wetlands north of Sugar Land Regional Airport, adding thousands of new trees to Sugar Land’s canopy.

• The Sugar Land Parks Department partnered with 30 Santrol employees last year to plant about 75 tree saplings in Sugar Land Memorial Park. The

•

•

•

•

Burr Oaks, Bald Cypress and Cedar Elms were part of a reforestation project.

Sugar Land previously received gold level Scenic City Certification in part for the City’s extensive tree-planting program and its preservation/expansion of trees and green spaces.

Sugar Land’s streetscape policy ensures that major roadways incorporate landscaping, including trees that not only screen large buildings but also expand the City’s canopy to provide valuable shade and wildlife habitats.

In observance of Arbor Day and Trees Across Sugar Land, the City annually hosts tree planting activities. Past events have resulted in thousands of new saplings in Memorial Park.

Sugar Land has engaged a professional arborist to assist with the preserva-

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Silver Ranch, Section 13, Precinct 3.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Commissioners Court of Fort Bend County, Texas has set a public hearing on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. for acceptance of the traffic control plan for Briscoe Falls, Section 4, 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 Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

Submitted by Laura Richard Fort Bend County Clerk

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY OF SUGAR LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE- CHAPTER 2, ARTICLE II TO REVISE SEC. 2-56 AND 2-91 FOR USES WITHIN COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS TO REQUIRE A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR NEW DEVELOPMENT ABUTTING RESIDENTIAL SINGLE- FAMILY DEVELOPMENT Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing: 6:30 p.m., May 26, 2016, City of Sugar Land City Council Chamber, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North to hear all persons interested in proposed amendments to the Development Code Chapter 2, Article II adding provisions for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) requirement for uses within the Business Office (B-O) Neighborhood Business (B-1), General Business (B-2), and Restricted Industrial (M-1) Districts for new non-residential development when directly abutting residential single-family development.

Details on the Development Code amendment may be obtained by contacting the City of Sugar Land Planning Office by email planning@sugarlandtx.gov or phone (281) 275-2218. The agenda item for this meeting will be available on the City website at www.sugarlandtx.gov under “Meeting Agendas, Minutes, and Videos” Planning and Zoning Commission no later than Friday, May 20, 2016.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS U.S. HIGHWAY 59 / COMMERCE GREEN WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT The City of Sugar Land seeks bids for furnishing all labor, material, and equipment, and performing all work required for the following project in the City: CIP PROJECT NAME: CIP PROJECT NUMBER: LOCATION OF WORK:

U.S. Highway 59/Commerce Green Water Main Replacement WA1502 U.S. Highway 59 and Commerce Green

The scope of work for this project consists of the installation of approximately 425 linear feet of 12” water line (390 linear feet restrained joint), bore and jack approximately 372 linear feet of 24” steel encasement pipe, and removing and replacing approximately 350 square feet of sidewalk and ramp.

Plans, specifications, and bidding documents may be obtained from www.

CivCastUSA.com. Bidders must register on this website in order to view and/or download specifications and plans for the project. Documents may be examined without charge in the office of the Project Engineer, Kelly. R. Kaluza & Associates, Inc., 3014 Avenue I, Rosenberg, TX 77471.

Sealed bids one (1) original and two (2) copies, shall be delivered to the City of Sugar Land, Office of the City Secretary, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Suite 122, Sugar Land, Texas, 77479, on or before 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 2, 2016, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read. Bids received after the opening date and time will not be considered.

A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting for all interested parties will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, May 23, 2016, Lakeview Room, City Hall, 2700 Town Center Boulevard North, Sugar Land, Texas 77479.

Questions regarding this bid must be received on or before 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 25, 2016. Questions may be posted on CivcastUSA.com or by contacting the Project Engineer, Christopher B. Argo, P.E., by email argo@kellykaluza.com or by telephone at (281) 341-0808.

The City will award the contract and give notice of award within sixty (60) calendar days after opening date and time.

Cinco Ranch • $374,900 • 4/31/2/2D

Pending

Pending

Sugar Land Named Tree City USA

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received in the Office of Gilbert D. Jalomo, Jr., County Purchasing Agent, Fort Bend County, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469 for the following until THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. (CST). All bids will then be publicly opened and read in the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Travis Annex, 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, TX 77469. Bids received after the specified time will be returned unopened. Solicitations and any and all addendums will be posted on Purchasing Agent’s website located at www. fortbendcountytx.gov.

BID 16-088 – HOSTAGE NEGOTIATION VEHICLE Unit pricing is required; payment will be by check. Bonds are not required.

Fort Bend County reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

A pre-bid conference will be conducted on Thursday, May 12, 2016 at 10:00AM (CST). The prebid conference will be held at the Fort Bend County Purchasing Department located in the Travis Annex at 301 Jackson, Suite 201, Richmond, Texas 77469. All bidders are encouraged to attend

$182,500 $182,500

For All Your Real Estate Needs Call Arlene Rolsen CRS, Realtor (281) 414-8400 www.ArleneRolsen.com

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tion of the City’s canopy along public right of ways. This project is intended to preserve a canopy system that has become overly dense and threatens the health of the entire system. Thinning the canopy will preserve Sugar Land’s tree system and is consistent with other preservation efforts throughout the City.

Sugar Land partners with CenterPoint Energy in the “Right Tree for the Right Place” program.

The City created an innovative and unique op-

portunity to create an arbor trail at Sugar Land Memorial Park demonstrating trees that grow well in Sugar Land and are able to grow to their full potential without conflicting with overhead utilities. Volunteers help plant trees and learn the importance of planting in the correct locations.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the U.S. Forest Service.

Spirit of Freedom Republican Women’s Club Welcomes 11-1:00 p.m. Lunch is $10.00.

PLEASE RSVP inform if you plan to eat or only attend.

E-mail address info@spiritoff r e e d o mwo m e n . com or call/text President Phyllis Emily Cook, Po- Worsham, 281-755litical Director and 2063.

General Counsel for “Texas Right to Life” Political Ad Paid for by Spirit Friday May 20, 2016 of Freedom Republican Women PAC

PUBLIC NOTICE Property presumed abandoned subject to the TEXAS PROPERTY CODE - UNCLAIMED PROPERTY CHAPTERS 72-76 The City of Sugar Land has been unable to locate owners of the property listed below. Any person having an interest in the property may obtain further information by calling the Accounting Department at 281-275-2745. You may also sent an email to accountspayable@sugarlandtx.gov. Staff will need proof of your identity.

Date Check Name Amount 04/20/2012 334301 John Johnson 84.00 04/20/2012 334320 Mehringer, Brooke 24.70 04/27/2012 334404 Gladis Martin 76.00 05/4/2012 334522 Perez, Livia 29.26 05/4/2012 334546 Wong, Hong Kin 60.17 05/11/2012 334556 Agusto Sandoval 25.00 05/18/2012 334669 Abu-Kleib, Kawsar 16.45 05/18/2012 334785 Rodriguez, Mario V. 12.56 05/18/2012 334807 Wu, Zheng 18.34 06/8/2012 334977 Delvin Ortez 25.00 06/8/2012 335066 Wong, Hong Kin 44.59 06/8/2012 335068 Woosley, C. 80.21 06/29/2012 335276 Amy Wright 82.50 06/29/2012 335306 Daredia, Shamsuddin 10.17 06/29/2012 335376 Moreno, Virna 8.76 07/13/2012 335479 Almutrafi, Abdullah H. 12.18 07/13/2012 335601 Wilson, Kenneth D. 77.33 08/17/2012 336019 Almutrafi, Abdullah H. 12.18 09/14/2012 336492 Timothy E. McKenna 3.60 09/21/2012 336521 Brons, Maria A. 7.28 09/21/2012 336529 Chawla, Rajan 92.72 09/21/2012 336531 Chopra, Taranbir S. 16.92 10/12/2012 336967 AARP-Old Town Sugar Land Chprt#5385 10.00 10/19/2012 337139 Marrero, Michael A 4.19 10/19/2012 337173 Virani, Sulaiman 10.70 10/26/2012 337212 Edward Hsieh 6.00 10/26/2012 337233 Jahan Jafarpour 5.00 10/26/2012 337255 Pat Cook 57.00 10/26/2012 337263 Roberta Howell 35.00 10/26/2012 337284 Willow Shaw 16.25 11/9/2012 337447 Ricky Roopnarine 50.00 11/16/2012 337512 John L Kittleson 25.00 11/16/2012 337562 Taylor Pulido 16.00 12/7/2012 337787 Fuqua, Alden C 6.78 01/11/2013 338243 Corcoran, Mikki V. 18.47 02/1/2013 338496 Avery Justin Jamison 48.00 02/1/2013 338518 Guadarrawa, Gabriela 10.75 02/8/2013 338614 Latryce Marie Pryor 50.00 02/22/2013 338794 Elvia M Marquez 30.00 03/1/2013 338852 Angels Columbia 60.00 1,279.06

INDEPENDENT • MAY 11, 2016 • Page 7

Join “The High-Tech Texan” Emcee Michael Garfield!

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MAY 21, 2016 12 – 3 P.M. AMF STAFFORD LANES STAFFORD, TX 77477 Ž ƌĞŐŝƐƚĞƌ͕ ŐŽ ƚŽ ĨŽƌƚďĞŶĚĐŽƵŶĐŝů͘ŽƌŐ͕ ĞŵĂŝů ĚŽƌƚŝnjΛĨŽƌƚďĞŶĚĐŽƵŶĐŝů͘ŽƌŐ Žƌ ĐĂůů ϮϴϭͲϮϳϬͲϮϰϬϲ͘

To register, go to fortbendcouncil.org; email dortiz@fortbendcouncil.org or call 281-270-2406

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