Howdy WHA Members!
It’s been a hot summer so far, and I hope y’all are keeping cool. Temperatures in Austin have been particularly high with debates over the best approach to property tax cuts, leading to a second special session and continued discussion about Ken Paxton’s impeachment trial. In our area, a hot topic of discussion is a push by Houston Stronger to help Harris County Flood Control District put forward a proposal to Congress to conduct a feasibility study on the excavation of Addicks and Barker Reservoirs to increase their storage capacity.
Speaking of water, last week we held a very well attended forum entitled “Developing Resilient Water Infrastructure” put on by our Water Resources Committee. Thanks to participants: Melinda Salazar (BGE), Rainer Ficken (Caldwell), Taylor Reed (Vogler & Spencer), and Jeff Haley (SiEnvironmental), as well as our sponsors! You can read more about the event in our wrap up.
July and August are particularly busy here in the office as we have two events coming up in the next 45 days. On July 28th the Quality Planned Development committee is hosting a half-day event “Collaborating for Quality Growth.” This forum will feature three panels each providing a valuable perspective on the significance of planning in development. The cost for this event has been generously underwritten by our Quality Growth Partners and there is no charge to attend.
Then on August 10th, we will be holding our annual Flood Control Forum. This year will feature a discussion between Heather Lagrone from the Texas General Land Office and Tina Peterson from the Harris County Flood Control District with a focus on funding and projects as part of the community development block grant funds from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Then on October 11th we will have our Public Officials and Awards Reception. Look for more information about that event in the months ahead!
In July the Government Affairs Committee is meeting on the 10th, Sustainable Infrastructure Committee is meeting on the 11th, and the Water Resources Committee is meeting on the 20th. All these meetings are in our office, and if you would like to be added to the email list or calendar invites for these committees, or any others, please let us know.
Thank you for your support of the West Houston Association and working to improve quality of life for the 2,000,000+ people who live, work, and play across the region!