East Aldine Management District Board Reviews Budget, Development Plans at January Meeting

The East Aldine Management District (EAMD) Board met on Jan. 28 for its first meeting of 2025. The meeting covered key budget discussions, infrastructure updates, and new development initiatives. It took place at the district office at 2909 East Aldine Amphitheatre Drive.

Public Comments and Board Member Resignation

Following a quorum and call to order, the board heard public comments from Aldine ISD Board Trustee Connie Esparza and longtime community member Esmeralda Cervantes. Both praised the district’s work in improving the area.

“Thank you for all you do for the community and the work you are committed to doing,” Esparza said. “On behalf of the community and the constituents, thank you.”

Cervantes, a 48-year resident, added, “I have seen so much change over the years. Before, we didn’t have a civic group or community center. Now, there is so much for the community. Thank you.”

The board also accepted the resignation of board member Patti Acosta, Position 4, effective Jan. 18, 2025. In her resignation letter, Acosta wrote, “It has been an honor to serve and deliver key support services to the community.” She cited a desire to focus on her health, family, and grandchildren. Chairman Carlos Silva met Acosta in 2016 and encouraged him to join the board; he invited the community to thank her for 15 years of EAMD service.

Budget Approval and Fiscal Outlook

A major agenda item was finalizing and approving the fiscal year 2025 budget. EAMD Executive Director Richard Cantú reported that the district remained nearly $1 million under budget for the previous fiscal year, with an investment project fund exceeding $18 million.

“We are in an excellent position and have big plans for the year ahead,” Cantú said. “Our finances are in great shape, and we will keep the proposed budget the same.”

Much of the district’s revenue came from the shopping center where Home Depot and Ross are located, which generated $11 million in sales tax and $2.5 million in special sales tax revenue. Interest income remained steady at $ million. According to a recent study, McDonald’s, located across from the shopping center, is the top-performing franchise in Texas.

Budget Highlights

• Neighborhood Recycling Center: This is Texas’s only management district-run recycling center. The board approved a $300,000 budget, a 10% staff pay increase, and insurance.
• Mobility, Environment & Urban Design: The district expanded ROW maintenance & litter control crews from two to three and added sheriff security for worker safety.
• Public Safety: The board allocated $2.8 million, including funds for free child safety seats and Sheriff deputy-led training sessions.
• Economic Development: $231,500 was designated for business development and expansion.
• Marketing and Public Relations: The board approved a $544,000 budget to continue billboard advertising, social media outreach, and event promotions.
• Community Development: The budget increased to $450,000, reflecting the EAMD’s unwavering commitment to supporting Avalos P-TECH School students through scholarships and local programs and fostering a brighter future for our community.
• Health, Education & Community Fund: The $494,000 budget covers community cleanups, health & educational programs, and district-sponsored events.
• Staffing & Project Management: The board approved $2,044,976 for personnel and administrative costs.
• General Administration Fund: The $335,000 budget covers legal services, audits, insurance, and professional development.
• Capital Investments: The district approved $11.7 million in capital projects, including streetlights, public safety equipment, infrastructure improvements, and housing developments.