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Board Meeting Overview

The East Aldine Management District (EAMD) held its monthly board meeting on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. The meeting addressed financial reports, infrastructure investments, and community development initiatives. Two new board members were appointed amid a record number of applicants.

Financial Reports and Budget Review

Cindy Craig of Hawes Hill and Associates presented the district’s financial review for February 2025. While EAMD slightly exceeded its budget in some areas, it remained under budget in most. Notable expenses included a $21,000 allocation in the marketing budget for community outreach and participation in events such as the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Craig also provided a detailed breakdown of the district’s income and expenses.

The board reviewed the General Fund, noting a healthy balance of $199,107.38 at Prosperity Bank, while the TexSTAR Operating General Fund totaled $15,199,922.55. Despite some debt service payments exceeding $500,000 in January and February, the district remains financially stable. Craig also updated capital improvement projects, including the Keith-Wiess Park Trail Connection and ongoing property acquisitions.

Investment Policy and Financial Compliance

The board approved the annual review of the investment policy. It adopted a resolution confirming its authorized depository institutions and qualified brokers. Assistant Secretary Reyes García inquired about potential political tariffs affecting investments, to which it was clarified that EAMD’s investments, managed through TexSTAR, remain secure and have performed well.

New Board Members Appointed

EAMD Board Chair Carlos Silva announced the appointment of Rubén A. Salazar to Position 4 and Sherry Curl to Position 5. Silva acknowledged the unprecedented number of applicants and praised the dedication of the Nominating Committee.

Salazar, applying for the third time, expressed gratitude and credited his inspiration to EAMD Executive Director Richard Cantú.

“I am honored to have been named to the board and I thank the Committee for the privilege. I am accepting the position on behalf of the community. I thank my parents for all the support,” shared Salazar.

Salazar, a passionate advocate for East Aldine, has been a driving force for community improvement since graduating from Douglas A. MacArthur Senior High School in 2019. His leadership in local organizations has led to increased community engagement and infrastructure improvements, including streetlights, sidewalks, and safety patrols. As the founder of the East Aldine Civic Association and an elected member of the Sunbelt Fresh Water Supply District’s board, he brings experience in grassroots advocacy and public service to his new role at EAMD.

Curl, a longtime educator and community advocate, is a teacher of the visually impaired, brings more than 20 years of experience working with students with visual impairments from birth to age 22. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Houston before pursuing a master’s in special education from Texas Tech University. She is currently working toward a doctorate in educational leadership.

Also a proud graduate of MacArthur High School, Curl emphasized her eagerness to contribute to the community.

“Thank you for welcoming me, for involving me. And thank you for all you do for the community. I want to learn and do good work in the community,” said Curl. 

Growth and Community Engagement

Cantú highlighted several initiatives, including:

  • The acquisition of Aldine ISD property for residential development and a maintenance facility.
  • Ongoing discussions with Harris County officials to address homelessness.
  • Plans for a youth symposium focused on development programs.
  • Increased outreach for recycling efforts, which collected over one million pounds last year.
  • The upcoming Zydeco Fest is on April 11 at East Aldine Amphitheatre. It will feature live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.

He also noted EAMD’s support for renaming a section of Highway 59 as Deputy Sheriff Darren Almendarez Memorial Highway. A ceremony is scheduled for March 31 at 11 a.m.

Infrastructure and Mobility Developments

The board approved key projects, including:

  • Town Center Phase 3 Development: Approval of a $22,042.50 invoice for consulting services, with upcoming town hall meetings to engage local businesses.
  • Water & Sewer Improvements: Agreement to pay $131,615 to secure the Westfield Estates Lift Station Site, ensuring project completion.
  • Public Safety Investments: Updates from District 2 Patrol reported 140 arrests in February as part of efforts to curb illegal street racing and parking lot takeovers.

Next Steps and Community Involvement

With a steadfast focus on infrastructure, public safety, and community engagement, the EAMD reaffirms its commitment to the growth and improvement of East Aldine. We are optimistic about the future and look forward to your continued support and participation in our upcoming public meetings and events, including the Zydeco Fest and the Deputy Sheriff Almendarez Memorial Highway dedication.

For more details, visit aldinedistrict.org or review the meeting Board Agenda here.