"Auld Lang Syne..."

As we move closer to the end of this year, I have a singular thought: "Whew...I am exhausted!"

What a year 2017 has been, I think we can credibly claim that 2017 was the "Year of Houston." Surely we have swung from the highs of hosting "the best Super Bowl ever" to being brought to our knees by the destruction of Hurricane Harvey. Our very humanity was on display in the aftermath of the storm, as neighbor helped neighbor. To be sure our recovery -- especially in devastated neighborhoods of District J -- has only haltingly just begun. We have a long way to go. Finally, the euphoria of being home to our World Series Champs -- the Houston Astros -- is a feeling we all hope will stay with us a while. Needless to say, these events encapsulated the ups and downs of 2017.

From a City of Houston perspective it has been a busy year as well. Together, we as voters chose to further secure our three City pension systems by our vote to adopt the pension revisions and bonds, thereby putting our City finances on surer footing.

In District J we celebrated the opening of "The Station" Skatepark at Burnett Bayland Park; a new water splash pad at Lansdale Park; and, a new, revitalized walking trail and gathering plaza at Crain Park. A much needed stormwater system replacement and reconstruction occurred on Renwick on Gulfton, bringing us another project designed to help with area flooding. With our civic leaders, we are identifying local needs and turning them into meaningful Council District Service Fund projects.

So it's been a busy and eventful year! Lets hope 2018 proves to be just as successful (but hopefully a little calmer.)

I want to thank you for all the encouragement and suggestions on how best to serve the people of District J. It is an honor to serve you.

My prayer is that you and your loved ones enjoy a joyous holiday season and receive an abundance of blessings in 2018.

Happy Hannukah, Seasons Greetings, Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

Mike Laster - signature

-Council Member Mike Laster, District J

Loop 610 at I-69 Groundbreaking

Major work is expected to start next year on one of the most congested interchanges in the state - Loop 610 at I-69. A groundbreaking ceremony with numerous elected officials occurred on Monday, November 20th.

The construction project will make all ramps two lanes, add shoulders and rebuild the main lanes of Loop 610, and make other design changes. Lane closings are expected in February, but the plan is to keep three lanes of Loop 610 open at all times.

Please keep this approaching project in the back of your minds as we move into the next year. Please click here for a comprehensive fact sheet on the construction.

Trash Schedule

Community Events Calendar Upcoming Events

Please refer to the Community Events Calendar on our website for the time, and other event details. New events are added every week. Be sure to check it often!

Wednesday, December 20

No City Council Meeting

Friday, December 22

City Holiday

Monday, December 25

Christmas Day - City Holiday

Tuesday, December 26

No City Council - Public Session

Wednesday, December 27

No City Council - Break Week

Monday, January 1

New Years Day - City Holiday

Wednesday, January 3

Consolidated City Council Session