Council Member Mike Sullivan’s Newsletter

September 2012 | Volume 3 | Issue 31
Council Member
Mike Sullivan’s Newsletter
Residents of District E,
As previously mentioned, I have submitted my resignation from Houston City Council effective January 2nd, 2013.  That triggered the call for a special election which will be held on November 6th.  This is the same day as the presidential election, as well as for various other offices.  An open period for candidates to file for the council seat was held from July 25th to August 23rd.  Three candidates filed, and the order they will be on the ballot are:
Dave Martin
Elizabeth Perez
Lonnie Allsbrooks
On to other news, I am excited to announce a formal grand opening for the new Kingwood Community Center.  It will be held Saturday, September 8th. Building tours are scheduled 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., with the opening ceremony 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.  Mayor Parker and Parks Director Joe Turner will participate in the ceremony with me.  I look forward to this special day, and hope that everyone will come out to see what an outstanding facility this is.  I can’t thank Joe Turner enough for his personal attention to this project.  He and his team have gone “above and beyond”, which they always seem to do.
As we enter the fall season, look for the District E town hall meeting coming to your area.  The Clear Lake town hall meeting will be held Monday, October 8th.  The Kingwood town hall is scheduled for Monday, October 15th.  Please be sure to come out and hear the latest on our activities, future projects, and what I think still needs to be accomplished moving forward.  In addition, at the Clear Lake town hall meeting, I plan on extending an invitation to all of the candidates who have filed for my seat to appear and speak.  Aside from that, there are plans for a candidates’ forum in Kingwood on October 11th.   As you can see, October will be a very busy month in District E.  Look for email blasts from me reminding you of these upcoming events.
Let me take a minute to thank everyone who helped make the first week of school go so smoothly.  I worked with HPD Kingwood Lt. Parris Ponton to develop a comprehensive plan to ensure that students were able to get to school safely, and that our commuters could make it up to the freeway to go to work.  Lt. Ponton executed his plan flawlessly, using the city’s MRTs (Mobility Response Teams), HPD bike officers, and both marked and unmarked vehicles to patrol around our schools in Kingwood.  Additionally, Allie Smart, my South Sector Manager, worked with HPD Clear Lake to ensure that traffic and student safety was addressed there as well.  HPD Officer Randy Derr and Captain Mark Fougerousse were instrumental in working with us in Clear Lake.  These HPD personnel often work in the background, and the general public does not realize all that they do for us.  They deserve our appreciation, and I want to say “thank you” to HPD Kingwood and Clear Lake for serving us so well.
In closing, I recently had the privilege to ride along with HPD DWI Task Force.  While booking a suspected drunk driver, I met Mark Rodriguez, founder of Krystas Karing Angels.  Mr. Rodriguez’s daughter was killed by a drunk driver two years ago at the age of 22. He has chosen to dedicate his life to educating and bringing awareness to  others about the dangers of drinking and driving.  Krystas Karing Angels hope is that Krystas story will save the lives of others.  I thank Mr. Rodriguez for sharing his story with me, I was truly touched by his strength and willingness to help others. For more information about Krystas Karing Angels; Click Here.
 Mike Sullivan
Council Member
Upcoming Candidate Forums & Town Hall Meetings

Council Member Sullivan will be hosting two town halls in October. These town halls allow District E constituents the opportunity to voice their questions and concerns as well as gain informative knowledge regarding plans for District E by hearing from various city departments.

After the conclusion of the Clear Lake town hall, the South Belt-Ellington Leader will host a candidates’ forum for the three candidates running for the District E seat.
In addition, The Tribune will  host a second candidates’ forum in Kingwood.
These forums will allow residents an opportunity to hear from candidates and to ask questions so they will be well informed in the November election.
Clear Lake Candidates’ Forum & Town Hall
October 8, 2012

at University of Houston- Clear Lake in the Garden Room – 6:00pm

Kingwood Candidates’ Forum
October 11, 2012
at  Kingwood Community Center- 7:00pm

Kingwood Townhall
 October 15, 2012
 at Kingwood Community Center- 6:00pm
Lufthansa Airlines’ A380
Lufthansa Airlines A380 on its inaugural landing at IAH.
On August 1st, Council Member Sullivan attended a ribbon cutting at George Bush Intercontinental Airport to celebrate Lufthansa Airlines’ A380 inaugural flight from Frankfurt, Germany to Houston . Council Member Sullivan visited with airline officials and local business leaders about the new airplane. Council Member Sullivan joined other special guest on a tour of the double-decker airliner. Council Member Sullivan is proud to have the Lufthansa A380 service to Houston,  as it is only the 5th City in the U.S. to host a plane of its size.
HFD Station #72 visit
Council Member Sullivan with Captain Janisiki.
On August 13th, Council Member Sullivan stopped by Houston Fire Department Station #72, which serves as the HFD station for NASA/JSC.  Every month Council Member Sullivan makes it a priority to visit with stations for an opportunity for firefighters to share stories, express concerns and to update him on various issues that affect the station.    Council Member Sullivan appreciates HFD Station #72 taking the time to visit with him.
 Boeing Community  Update
Council Member Sullivan with Boeing Representatives, local, state and federal elected officials and representatives of the Education Foundation and TAME.
On August 15th, Council Member Sullivan had the pleasure of joining many elected officials and Clear Lake area business leaders in a briefing on Boeing’s business and investments in the community.  Mr. John Elbon, Vice President of Boeing Space Exploration, Jeffrey Dodson, Director of state & local government operations provided an overview of the technical and engineering support services to NASA’s Johnson Space Center for the International Space Station program. Council Member Sullivan appreciates Boeing taking the time to update the group on the initiatives occurring on a local, state and federal level.
TIRZ Meeting
Jeffery Nielsen and Council Member Sullivan.
Council Member Sullivan attended the August 9th quarterly meeting of the Lake Houston TIRZ at Kingwood Medical Center. During the meeting,  Council Member Sullivan updated the TIRZ Board on City of Houston matters and participated in discussions regarding the purchase of the planned Kingwood West fire station property. Council Member Sullivan also witnessed the swearing in of his nominee, Jeffrey Nielsen, who replaces recently resigned TIRZ Board Member Collin Rose for the remainder of the term.
Ningbo China Delegation
Council Member Sullivan bestowing Junmin JI, Advisor of the Ningbo Municipal Government, with a gift from the City of Houston.
On August 14th, Council Member Sullivan spoke to a delegation of Chinese Government Officials from Ningbo, China at the Cultural Society’s Tea Room. The Council Member’s presentation focused on ethics in government and sparked a productive intercultural dialogue. At the end of the meeting, the Council Member exchanged official gifts with the Advisor of the Ningbo Municipal Government, Junmin Ji. Council Member Sullivan appreciated the opportunity to address the members of the Ningbo delegation and wishes continued prosperity for Ningbo.

Sullivan speaks at Splendora Convocation

 

Sullivan speaking to Splendora ISD.
On Monday, August 20th, Council Member Sullivan was honored to speak at the convocation at Splendora High School.  He was joined by student leaders, organizations, and administration in speaking to the audience about ” Achieving Success Through Perseverance.”  Council Member Sullivan informed the students that he himself is  a student at UH-Downtown and just how important it is to never give up.  Council Member Sullivan wishes all students and teachers a successful 2012-2013 school year.
District E Candidate Dave Martin, Port Commissioner Steve Phelps and Council Member Sullivan.

 BAHEP General Membership Meeting

 

 On August 22nd,  Council Member Sullivan and his office staff attended the monthly Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership’s general membership meeting at Bay Oaks Country Club.  The guest speaker at this month’s meeting was Colonel Len Waterworth, executive director at the Port of Houston Authority.  Colonel Waterworth presented an overview of the port and it’s diverse facilities and capabilities.  He also gave information about the global opportunities with the expansion of the Panama Canal.  Council Member Sullivan and staff were pleased to learn about all of the opportunities occurring at the Port of Houston.
For more information regarding BAHEP; CLICK HERE.
San Jacinto College Chancellor, Board Members, staff and elected officicals and representatives.
San Jacinto College receives a Texas Historical Marker
On August 21st, Council Member Sullivan attended the San Jacinto College and the Harris County Historical Commission at the dedication of an Official Texas Historical Marker honoring the College’s 50th Anniversary. Dr. Brenda Hellyer, Chancellor of San Jacinto college gave brief remarks on the history, growth and success of the college. She recognized retirees that had been with the college since 1968.   Proclamations were presented from County Judge Ed Emmitt’s office as well as from Governor Rick Perry. Following the remarks, the group was lead out for the unveiling of the official historical marker that is located at the Interactive Learning Center at San Jacinto College Central Campus; 8060 Spencer Highway in Pasadena. Council Member Sullivan deeply appreciates the College including him in the dedication ceremonies and wishes them success for the next 50 years.
Sullivan visits Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital
Tom Broad, Heath Rushing, Brittany Taggart, Council Member Sullivan and Louis Smith at Memorial Hermann Northeast Emergency Room.
On August 28th, Council Member Sullivan delivered another decorated ceiling tile to Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital. The decorated ceiling tile will be installed in the hospital’s emergency room.  The tile Council Member Sullivan delivered was decorated by Brittany Taggart, a volunteer with Christo Rey Jesuit School. The attractive tile bears the school seal emblazoned in black and gold.
 First Day of School in District E
As always, Council Member Sullivan was out in the community on the morning of August 27th as the school bells rang and began the start of a new school year.  Every year, Council Member has made it a priority of his to schedule a ride-along with the Houston Police Department and monitor traffic flow on the 1st day of school in District E.  Council Member Sullivan also had the chance to greet students, teachers and administrators.  He thanks HPD for helping with traffic control.

Sullivan speaks to Seabrook Rotary

Council Member Sullivan and Seabrook Mayor, Glenn Royal.
On Thursday, August 30, 2012,  Council Member Sullivan was honored to speak to the Seabrook Rotary Club.  Council Member Sullivan had the opportunity to visit one-on-one with many Rotarians and learn about their ideas and goals for the area.  He spoke to the club regarding happenings at City Hall, term limits for council members, economic development in the Bay Area, future plans and concluded by answering questions and accepting feedback from the audience.   Council Member Sullivan always enjoys speaking to Rotary Clubs and learning about their participation in the community.  He truly appreciates the Seabrook Rotary Club for inviting him to speak.
Seabrook Rotary meets every Thursday, 7am at Lakewood Yacht Club.
Council Member Sullivan pictured with Houston Contractors Association President Brian Manning.
Houston Contractors Association
On August 23rd, Council Member Sullivan attended the Houston Contractors Association luncheon at the Hess Club. Harris County Judge Ed Emmett was the guest speaker and presented the state of the county to the audience and also spoke on the topic of
natural gas in Texas. Council Member Sullivan also had the opportunity to visit with Brian Manning, the 2012 HCA President, and many other industry leaders.
The 3rd Annual Lake Houston 10k/5k
Council Member Sullivan and State Representative Dan Huberty.
Council Member Sullivan was invited to be the celebrity starter for the 3rd Annual Lake Houston 10K/5K on Saturday,  August 25th.   With the bullhorn in hand, Council Member Sullivan sent more than 700 runners on their way as they raced down West Lake Houston Parkway.  Council Member Sullivan would like to thank the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce for inviting him to him and commends them on an event well done.
Kingwood Community Center Names Facility Manager
Council Member Sullivan with Justin Hagendof.
On August 20th, Council Member Sullivan stopped by the Kingwood Community Center and visited with Mr. Justin Hagendorf, who was recently hired as the  Facility Manager for the new center.  Mr. Hagendorf comes to the City of Houston from West University where he served West University Parks Department for several years. Council Member Sullivan would like to officially welcome Mr. Hagendorf to the Kingwood Community and wishes him well in his new position.
Dave Martin, District E candidate, Shawn Parker with TXU Energy and Council Member Sullivan.
Clear Lake Area Chamber Monthly Luncheon
On August 29, 2012, Council Member Sullivan attended the monthly Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon.  The guest speaker at this meeting was Richard Allen, President of Space Center Houston and Michael Kincaid, NASA/Johnson Space Center.  The two spoke about all of the initiative occurring with NASA and Space Center Houston. Council Member Sullivan also had the opportunity to visit with District E constituents and hear their concerns and ideas for the Clear Lake Area.  Council Member Sullivan looks forward to the September monthly luncheon.
NASA Research & Technology Day at Johnson Space Center
Council Member Sullivan with Johnson Space Center Director, Mike Coats.

On August 30, 2012, Council Member Sullivan attended the NASA Research and Technology Studies Tour at Johnson Space Center. The tour allowed the group to get a firsthand experience of new research and design being developed for the next generation of space craft.   The tour leaders gave the group an informative overview of the new multi-crew space vehicle and even allowed the guests to sit inside the mockup. The group then learned about the portable refilling station which will allow for astronauts in space to ability to make their own water, instead of bringing water from earth, this allows for more room in the space craft.  In closing the tour group was able to put on “electronic imagining glasses” to experience what it would be like to view an asteroid. Council Member Sullivan thanks Brian Freedman for inviting him on the tour.

Heavy Trash Routes in Houston
On November 1, 2012, the City’s Solid Waste Management Department will be implementing the new heavy trash route throughout the City of Houston.  These new routes have been developed to ensure efficiency by having trucks pick up in the same area on the same day.    Please be patient with Solid Waste Management Department as they learn new routes to provide citizens with a reliable and convenient service.
To view the new heavy trash maps; click here. 
For additional questions; please contact Council Member Sullivan’s office at(832)393-3008.

900 Bagby, First Floor

Houston, TX 77002
17629 El Camino Real
Suite 415
Houston, TX 77058
PHONE:
FAX:
E-MAIL:
 Chief of Staff
Agenda Director &
 South Sector Manager
Intergovernmental Relations &
North Sector Manager
Kevin Zungia
Council Aide
Farewell Celebration at Intercontinental Airport
Council Member Sullivan attended the farewell celebration for TSA Federal Security Director Ann M. Testa on August 22nd. The event was held at Bush Intercontinental Airport in Terminal A’s South Skyline Room. Council Member Sullivan visited with Director Testa and presented her with a certificate in recognition of her service to the citizens of Houston.
Space Center Rotary
On August 13th, Council Member Sullivan attended the monthly meeting at Bay Oaks County Club.  The guest speaker was Dr. Brenda Hellyer, Chancellor of San Jacinto College.  Dr. Hellyer spoke about the growth and success of the College.  Council Member Sullivan always enjoys hearing about the changes and opportunities occurring at San Jacinto College.
For information on Space Center Rotary; CLICK HERE.
 Tree Waste
 Council Member Sullivan would like to remind District E
residents that the City of
Houston’s Solid Waste
Management Department will
only pick up Tree Waste
during the month of September. Tree Waste is defined as “clean”wood such as tree limbs,branches and stumps. Lumber, furniture, and treated wood will NOT be accepted.
 For more information;
  Click Here.
District Chief Hartman Retires
On August 4th, Council Member Sullivan attended the retirement party for HFD District Chief Randy Hartman at station #102 in Kingwood. District Chief Hartman is retiring after 32 years of service to the City of Houston, specifically  Kingwood. Council Member Sullivan thanks District Chief Hartman for his selfless dedication and wishes him well in his retirement.
Mosquitoes in District E
District E constituents inquiring about having their yards sprayed for mosquitoes should be aware of the following:  Harris County Mosquito Control Division under Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services is the only public entity that sprays for mosquitoes. Private entities that home owner associations often hire are not associated with the city. The Harris County Mosquito Division only sprays where there are known mosquitoes carrying infective diseases.
 Precinct 2 of the Mosquito Control Division sprays everything:  east of 610, south of 90 and east of 45, there number is (281) 440-7928. All other areas, inquiries and request can call (713) 439-6000 or (713) 440-4800.
For more information;
E-Recycling
Kingwood Metro Center
3210 W. Lake Houston Pkwy
1st Saturday of the month
 Ellington Recycle Center
Hwy 3 @Brantley Rd.
2nd Saturday of the month
For more information, and accepted materials:
SAVE THE DATE:
Houston Arts Partners Conference
 Join the 2012 Houston Arts Partners Conference and learn about successful partnership programs and how your school can build a community that elevates student achievement.
Featured Keynote Speaker;
Dr. Tim Lautzenheiser
Two days and two locations..
September 14 ,2012-Museum of Fine Arts
September 15, 2012-Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture, U of H
Quick Links
District E Information
-District E photo gallery
-Past Council Agendas & Minutes
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