City at work: Manvel tries to keep city affordable amid growth, new construction
The city of Manvel has a litany of projects under construction around town that are meant to expand city facilities for future growth.
Two-minute impact: Among them are a police station, which officials have started moving into as of August; an expansion of the City Hall complex, which could begin in 2025; a public works building; and a water reclamation facility.
Why it matters: Since 2009, Manvel’s population has grown by 125%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Cost to the city: With all the growth and incoming projects, city officials are looking at a tighter budget.
What they said: “I’ve encouraged the city of Manvel ... to come and use us as a guide," Cole said. "Use us to see how we did things. And learn what we got right, and learn from what we got wrong.”
Next steps: Over the next two years, projects will wrap up, all of which city officials said will help grow the city’s capacity for new staff, residents and services.
Ali Mini Mart, a Middle Eastern grocery store, opened in Friendswood on Sept. 14, according to a social media from the owner.
The details The mini mart sells imported food products like basmati rice, gros lupini beans, Jameedna soup starters, Cafe Najjar and Al Dayaa olive oil.
More notice required for public meetings under new Texas law
Cities, counties and school district boards across Texas are required to provide more notice for public meetings under a new state law aimed at increasing public participation in government affairs.
The details: Local government agencies must post meeting notices at least three business days in advance of the meeting, meaning weekends and holidays do not count toward the minimum posting period.
House Bill 1522, which became law Sept. 1, increases the notice requirement from 72 hours.
The law change is part of “an effort to promote government transparency and citizen participation,” Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, said during a May 13 legislative hearing.
The local impact: Some city and county governments across Community Impact’s coverage areas are changing their meeting schedules to comply with the new law, including:
Bastrop City Council
Conroe City Council
Fort Bend County Commissioners Court
Montgomery County Commissioners Court
The Woodlands Township
The new law does not dictate when local governments hold meetings, as long as they meet the three-day posting requirement.
4 Houston-area events celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month
There are several events taking place in the Greater Houston area to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place from Sept. 15-Oct. 15. This list is not comprehensive.
Hispanic Heritage Celebration Houston Premium Outlets is hosting a performance and dance lessons from Mixteco Ballet Folklorico and a performance from Mariachi Estrella de Mi Tierra.
