Tomball ISD trustees approved bond purchases and heard project updates from Chief Financial Officer Zach Boles during their workshop and regular meetings Dec. 8-9.

What residents need to know: As previously reported, at the Dec. 10 meeting, the board voted to approve the use of 2021 and 2025 bond funds for multiple infrastructure purchases, including:

• New security cameras, furniture, and equipment for Tomball West High School
• Additional funds to complete the sidewalks at the Early Excellence Academy
• 30 standard and 10 special education buses

• Planning & design
• Permitting & bidding
• Construction

The mini golf course, Party Mini Golf, is now open off the Vintage Preserve Parkway, business officials confirmed.

The details: Party Mini Golf's course offers 18 holes to play on. Subject to change, its facilities are available from 3-8 p.m. on Fridays, noon-8 p.m. on Saturdays and noon-5 p.m. on Sundays, according to its website. It is a family-friendly establishment for children of all ages; however, children under 16 are required to be accompanied by an adult at all times, business officials said.

Quote of note: “Party Mini Golf is the perfect spot for family-friendly fun," general manager Mark Hume said. "We offer an affordable experience that everyone can enjoy. Our lively atmosphere is filled with good music, clean facilities and a welcoming vibe that makes every visit memorable."

• 14443 Vintage Preserve Parkway, Houston

Candidate filing data from the Texas Secretary of State’s office shows 19 people have filed to run for county-level offices in Montgomery County contested races for county judge, county commissioner and multiple justice of the peace seats.

The full story
Dec. 8 was the last day for candidates to file to run in the March 3 primary election, per the Texas Secretary of State's website.

The county judge race has candidates in both the Republican and Democratic parties, while several Republican incumbents in countywide offices have drawn challengers only in select precinct-level races. Some positions have just one candidate filed.

Before you go: Feb. 2 is the deadline to register to vote in the 2026 primary elections, with early voting starting Feb. 17. Election day is March 3, according to the Texas Secretary of State’s website.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick unveiled a plan Dec. 9 to further raise property tax exemptions for Texas homeowners and lower the age at which Texans qualify for additional tax relief during the 2027 state legislative session.

The details: Deemed “Operation Double Nickel,” Patrick’s three-part plan asks state lawmakers to:

• Raise the property tax exemption on a Texas homeowner’s main residence, known as a homestead exemption, by $40,000
• Allow homeowners who are at least 55 years old to qualify for a larger exemption reserved for seniors and people with disabilities
• Pass legislation to drive down property taxes charged by local governments