East Aldine Management District Board Hears Powerful Testimonials, Reviews Key Projects at May Meeting

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Community youth and seniors share impact of programs; board moves forward on major development and infrastructure items

The East Aldine Management District (EAMD) Board of Directors convened to review financial reports, and approve or table several infrastructure and community development projects.

The board meeting, held at the EAMD offices on May 27, 2025, opened with a quorum and a series of emotional testimonies from students, parents, and community residents on the district’s ongoing programs and partnerships.

Youth and Community Testimonials Highlight District’s Impact

One of the ways the EAMD Board works with the community is to sponsor or support initiatives that impact youth and seniors. The first two public comments that highlight this came from Liliana Campa and her son Hugo, who praised the Diaz Music Institute (DMI) summer camp for its transformative impact. The first two public comments came from Liliana Campa and her son Hugo, who praised the Diaz Music Institute (DMI) summer camp, which the EAMD helped fund, for its transformative impact.

Hugo, a four-year participant who joined the program in seventh grade, shared how DMI helped him develop discipline, overcome challenges, and apply lessons from music to his academic life. His transformation, as he put it, was profound. “Repetition is key,” Hugo said. “What I learned at camp translated to school and life.”

Recent MacArthur High School graduate Josué Rebolloso also shared his gratitude. Rebolloso credited DMI with improving his time management and personal growth. A 2023 National Hispanic Recognition Program scholar, he is now pursuing a business degree at the University of Houston.

Coco Martínez, a resident of Pilgrim Place senior housing, thanked the board for supporting summer programs that allow seniors to “visit” imaginative destinations through themed events. “They get to go to places they’ve never been and dress up for the beach or a safari,” she said. “Thank you for all you do.”

Board Approves Financials, Audit Services, and Infrastructure Items

The board approved the minutes from the April 22 meeting and reviewed financial reports, which showed that the district remains under budget. Total sources of funds as of April 25 stood at nearly $5 million, with expenditures totaling $2.7 million. The TexSTAR operating balance was reported at over $14.3 million, demonstrating the board’s commitment to financial transparency and responsible management.

Directors also approved the engagement of Municipal Accounts Consulting LP for audit services, transitioning from Burton Accounting. This ongoing agreement will support the district’s financial oversight and compliance, ensuring that the EAMD continues to receive high-quality financial services and maintain our commitment to transparency.

Executive Director Richard Cantú delivered his monthly report, highlighting events such as the Leadership North Houston Summit, the 2025 Neighborhoods USA (NUSA) Conference, and the May 29 Town Hall would be on the final 10 acres of development at the Town Center. Cantú also announced a youth symposium planned for July 25 and the district’s upcoming 25th anniversary.

Town Center and Maintenance Projects Move Forward

The board approved the payment of Invoice #3 to Asakura Robinson for Town Center Phase 3 planning work, including preparations for the May 29 community meeting.

A $145,800 proposal from Quiddity Engineering for surveying and civil engineering services at the district’s 3.8-acre maintenance facility was also approved. The facility, purchased from the Aldine Independent School District, will serve maintenance staff and local law enforcement deputies.

Mobility and Beautification Projects Reviewed

The board approved a $23,953.40 contract with SMC Landscape for the cleanup and fencing of a 10-acre site on Hamill Road.

The EAMD board tabled a $25,265.91 bid from Monarch Landscape for district median enhancements and approved a $215,896 proposal from the Goodman Corporation for Phase 1 of a districtwide bus shelter project.

Water and Sewer Committee Approves Sanitary Sewer Projects

Directors approved a $440,742.62 outlay for the Hartwick Sanitary Sewer Extension Project, including contractor payments and engineering costs.

The board also approved a new work authorization with 5engineering for continued planning and coordination with the Texas Water Development Board on the Castlewood Sanitary Sewer Project and potential future infrastructure needs. This proactive approach to future infrastructure needs is a significant part of the meeting summary, as it shows the board’s commitment to long-term planning and development.

Looking Ahead

The next board development session is scheduled for June 27. As the district looks ahead to its 25th anniversary in 2026, leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration with partners, such as the Harris County Department of Education and BakerRipley, to expand opportunities for youth and the broader East Aldine community, instilling a sense of hope and anticipation for the district’s future.

Click here to view the EAMD Board book for the May 27 meeting for in-depth details about each of the items discussed by the board at the meeting, for full financial breakdowns, completed infrastructure projects, ongoing projects, CenterPoint Energy, and EAMD Phase 3 of the streetlight project Light Up East Aldine, Harris County Sheriff’s Office East Aldine stats; business, economic development and marketing proposals, East Aldine art initiatives within the district, and more.

For more information about the East Aldine Management District, visit www.AldineDistrict.org.