The 11-26-2025 Edition of The Fort Bend Star

Teen financial literacy class - Page 3

Sugar Land Social District to allow outdoor alcohol consumption at Town Square, mall

Staff Reports

With the announcement in August that Sugar Land will serve as a “host supporting community” for the 2026 FIFA World Cup games in Houston, the city’s tourism marketing arm on Wednesday announced the launch of the “Sugar Land Social District” that will provide the outside consumption of alcohol.

In a news release, Visit Sugar Land describes the district as “a new destination within Sugar Land Town Square and First Colony Mall designed to enhance the city’s vibrant dining, retail and entertainment scene.”

“The Sugar Land Social District offers residents and visitors the opportunity to responsibly enjoy alcoholic beverages purchased from participating establishments outdoors, creating a lively, walkable environment that supports local businesses and enriches the city’s social experience,” the release stated.

Visit Sugar Land will celebrate the launch of the social district on Friday, December 5, beginning with a FIFA World Cup 26™ Final Draw Watch Party at Little Woodrow’s Sugar Land from 10:30 a.m.—1 p.m. That will be followed by the annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Town Square. “Guests who purchase an item from at least three participating businesses that day can receive a custom FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston and Visit Sugar Land koozie and a free hot chocolate from the Visit Sugar Land cart,” the release states.

“As part of our city’s Strategic Action Plan and Stimulating Economic Growth All-In Initiative, this new social district isn’t just about enjoying a drink outdoors; it’s about creating a more connected and walkable community,” Teagan Trammell, Sugar Land’s strategic and government affairs management analyst, said in the release.

Staff Reports

This fall brought more signs of stability to the Houston region’s housing market, as October marked the sixth consecutive month of year-over-year home sales growth. With some relief in prices and mortgage rates, buyers are getting a bit more bargaining power going into the final months of the year.

According to the Houston Association of Realtors’ October 2025 Housing Market Update, singlefamily home sales rose 3.2 percent year-over-year. A total of 7,419 homes were sold compared to 7,187 last year. While average home prices remained statistically flat at $423,955, the median price declined for the seventh month in a row to $330,000. This trend indicates that the market is gradually shifting toward a more balanced level after years of rapid price growth.

Housing supply remained steady month-to-month, but increased year-

AG: County Attorney does not have exclusive

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on November 19 issued an opinion stating that Fort Bend County County Attorney General Bridgette Smith-Lawson does not have exclusive authority over the hiring of outside counsel in civil matters.

The question had been a source of acrimony between the Democratic county at -

torney and Republican members of Commissioners Court during the recent, months-long battle over the redistricting of precinct lines, which unusually was done in the middle of the decade.

In a written statement, Smith-Lawson that her office would abide by the opinion and that it considered the matter “resolved.”

Paxton’s 9-page opinion

was a response to an April request by Texas Rep. Gary Gates, a Republican whose 28th District includes much of Fort Bend County.

In the opinion, Paxton goes over the long and competing claims made by Smith-Lawson and the Republican respondents based on Texas statutes

SUGAR LAND COUNCIL

By Ken Fountain KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

The Sugar Land City Council on November 18 unanimously approved a contract with Houston-based Urbano Architects to perform design work aimed at preserving the Imperial Sugar Char House, the iconic, century-old building that has long been considered the city’s most important landmark.

The vote on the $460,000 agreement is the first tangible move by the Council to begin work on preserving the long-derelict building since it unanimously approved in February the acquisition of the entire Imperial property, which has sat largely dormant since the Imperial Sugar company closed more than two decades ago.

City staff told Council at their Tuesday meeting that Urban Architects was selected because they were both a local firm and had already performed work related the Char House when they were part of

over-year to 5.2 months, up from 4.4 months last October.

The average list-to-sale price ratio dipped to 92.6%, the lowest recorded level since HAR began tracking the metric in 2001.

“Despite the government shutdown, which temporarily ceased

purchases of flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program, and some uncertainty in the economy, homebuying interest in Houston remains solid,” said HAR Chair Shae Cottar with LPT Realty. “Prices have softened, inventory is up, and mortgage rates are coming down –

all of which are giving buyers more room to breathe. The frenzied pace of recent years has eased, and the market has leveled out, ultimately benefiting both buyers and sellers.”

Housing Market Overview

In October, sales of all property types across the Houston area increased 1.6% compared to last year, with 8,768 properties sold. Multifamily properties saw the largest year-over-year sales growth, with transactions 32.8% above last October’s volume. Total dollar volume also rose 1.9% to more than $3.5 billion for the month.

Houston single-family home sales now exceed pre-pandemic levels, up 3.2% in October 2019 compared to October 2025 and up 2.6% year-todate. In contrast, the U.S. housing market struggles to return to normal with home sales down 21.6% (September 2025 compared to September 2019) and off 22.8% yearto-date 2025 versus 2019.

“Unlike the U.S. housing market, which lags pre-pandemic home sales volumes, Houston has returned to a normal market that is growing,” said HAR Chief Economist Dr. Ted C. Jones.

Active listings of all property types were 23% higher than last year with 59,903 available properties on the market.

Single-Family Homes Update

As prices and mortgage rates settle, more home buyers are stepping back into the market. A total of 7,419 single-family homes sold in October, up from 7,187

Libraries launch new digital-media platform

Community Reports

Fort Bend County Libraries recently launched a digitalmedia platform - PressReader - offering unlimited access to thousands of online magazines, including exclusive, digital access to The Economist.

PressReader is a library service that provides access to both U.S. and world news, along with thousands of popular magazines, in a userfriendly reading app, making selections available offline for reading at any time, from any place.

Library cardholders can enjoy digital print replicas of thousands of magazines from more than 140 countries/regions, in more than 40 languages.

PressReader offers features like personalized newsfeeds,

instant translation between 20 languages, text-to-speech functionality, article sharing, and advanced discovery tools.

Popular titles include Time, Elle, GQ, Vanity Fair, US Weekly, and more. This digital resource can be found in the eLibrary tab of the library system's website, on the Digital Resources & Databases page. For more information, see Fort Bend County Libraries' website (www.fortbendlibraries.gov) or inquire at any location in the Fort Bend County library system.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING TO DISCUSS

• Earthman Southwest Funeral Home/ Dignity Memorial

• Renewal by Anderson

• Optimum Care Senior Living

• Devoted Health Plans

• Scan Health Plan

• Suvida Healthcare

• Humana Market Point

• Pam Health

• Heather Borchardt Simpson

• Captel Outreach

• Next Day Access

• Care Partner

Worship Directory

the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns Will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. - Proverbs 3:9-10

Special Thanks to our Partner City of Missouri City

• Village Medical

• KS Insurance

• PrimeTime Medical Transportation

• BBB Education Foundation

• Verda Healthcare

• Ace Pain Management & Rehabilitation

• Caring Senior Service

• State Farm Freddie Noble

• Memorial Hermann Sugar Land

• CenterWell Primary Care

• Prolato Research LLC

• Real Time Pain Relief With Appreciation to Our Vendors:

• TP Health Multispecialty Clinic

• Visiting Angels Missouri City

Together, we made a lasting impact. Thank you for being part of our mission to uplift, educate, and support our senior community! — Fort Bend Star

The Associated Press –“Border Czar Tom Homan is accused of taking $50,000 in cash in a paper bag in September 2024 from undercover FBI agents to secure government contracts if and when Homan landed a job in the Trump administration, an accusation he denies.”

White House Press Release – “Tom Homan is an innocent man falsely accused by those woke Democrats who will go to any scurrilous lengths to harm the sterling reputation of a public servant. He never took the money and that recording of the alleged bribe was done by AI. Also, Homan never heard of Jeffery Epstein or anyone named Jeffrey, much less an Epstein.”

MSNBC or MS News or whatever we are calling ourselves these days – “Border Czar Tom Homan was caught red-handed in a recording by the FBI receiving $50,000 in cash in yet another example of the corrupt Trump administration. This is in keeping with that Great Gatsby Ball at Mar-a-Lago with its Champagne and caviar feasts while millions of Americans were waiting hopelessly in the snow for their SNAP cards.”

Interview With Former FBI Agent – “We were posing as

EDITORIAL

Here comes the bribe

Lynn Ashby Columnist

ASHBY2@COMCAST.NET

contractors seeking to secure government contracts during a potential second Trump administration. On the tape, Homan appeared to indicate his willingness to help us if Trump returned to office. That’s all I know since I only worked on the same floor as a team member of the sting. I was fired and now face 20 years in prison. I hope it’s in the same facility as Ghislaine Maxwell’s. I hear the room service and spa are first-rate.”

Press Release From Former President Joe Biden: “It is, uh, probably a pay-play, no, play-for-clay. Did I sign that?” Statement From Washington Law Firm Delay, Divert & Distract – “Our client is totally innocent of this fake news. That paper bag was from McDonald’s and was supposed to be Homan’s

lunch. Somebody – probably Chuck Schumer – must have changed the bag just to entrap this poor, put-upon patriot. We plan to sue the FBI, CBS, ABC, the BBC and probably the YMCA for $20 million. The settlement will not go to our beloved president, generous philanthropist that he is, but rather to the Trump Family Charity – maybe. Just don’t freeze us out of any more federal courthouses.”

Fox News – “Tom Homan has been unjustly accused of taking $50,000 in cash to procure favorable contracts. The alleged recordings are clearly doctored, but not the unquestioned tape showing Hillary Clinton leading the charge against our diplomats in Benghazi.”

Public Broadcasting Service – “This ‘non-bribery’ defense by the White House is so far-fetched that it insults the keen and sophisticated intelligence of our leftist viewers. And now we can say what we want to since you have taken away our federal funds. Oh, sure, we used to have to play it safe and give both sides to any story, but not anymore. We bet you didn’t think of that, did you, Don Boy? Outsmarted your -

self. Tomorrow’s Prime Time Special: ‘Thank Heaven for Little Girls – the EpsteinTrump Story.’”

The University of Texas System – “Oh, Glorious Leader, we gave Homan that 50K. It was his NIL pay. We’ve cancelled all our minority courses, banned those professors and burned their books (or is it the other way around?). We’ve even changed our name to Trump University since, we understand, it’s no longer used. Just don’t take away our federal grants. Our patriotic steps are unlike those traitors at Texas A&M.”

White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt – “I acknowledge that the meeting took place, but deny allegations of wrongdoing. Homan never took the $50,000 you’re referring to. Those are alternative facts.”

Statement from Gov. Greg Abbott – “I am proud to announce the presence of Ghislaine Maxwell in Texas. I invited her to stay at the Governor’s Mansion, but she said she preferred her current suite, which has better Netflix and a Jacuzzi. She did inquire if I had any young, female interns.”

The Associated Press –

Teen financial literacy series concludes Dec. 1

Community Reports

This fall, Fort Bend County Libraries' Sienna Branch Library has been hosting a free series of Financial Literacy workshops, taught by Fort Bend County Extension Agent Janelle Johnson., designed to give high school-aged teens in grades 9 through 12 a better understanding of personal finances, credit cards, and money-management skills that will help them succeed in the adult world after highschool graduation. The final program in the series – "Introduction to Credit Cards & Insurance" –will take place on December 1, from 5-6:30 p.m. This class will delve more deeply into the use of credit cards, including how they work and how to avoid debt. Those attending

this class will receive tips for using credit cards smartly and responsibly. Students will also get an overview of insurance types – including health, auto, and renters' – and why they are an important part of financial planning.

The series is free and open to the public. Seating is limited, however, and registration is required. To register online at the library's website (www. fortbendlibraries.gov), click on "Classes & Events," select the library, and find the program on the date indicated. For more information, call the Sienna Branch Library (281-238-2900) or FBCL's Communications Office (281-633-4734). The Sienna Branch Library is located at 8411 Sienna Springs Blvd., Missouri City.

“When Trump assumed the presidency in 2025, Justice Department officials including Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove closed the Homan case, citing insufficient evidence and, displeased with the case, called it an effort of the ‘deep state.’ Bove said that ‘shadowy unelected officials controlled the government at the time of the probe.’”

Border Czar Tom Homan – “There are no results fabricated to damage my name and reputation. I shall continue my duty to deport to Uganda criminals, drug lords along with women and children with brown skin or who talk funny. Hey, have you seen my maid and gardener?”

The Texas A&M System – “Our dearest friend and military hero, we didn’t need to cancel any liberal or nonwhite courses because we never had them. Also, we needed to stop paying all our professors because (1) there seems to have a few who voted Democrat, and (2) we’re still trying to pay off Jimbo Fisher. However, we have added a new course in our Business College: Homan’s Business Ethics 101. Also, our last woke president-fora-day will light the Aggie

Bonfire – from the top.”

The New York Times –“Thomas Douglas Homan (born Nov. 28, 1961) is accused of receiving $50,000 in cash in a paper bag (see: What $50,000 would purchase in 1961) from agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (history of the FBI Section 7). Homan claims it was his lunch from McDonald’s. (Graph of McDonald’s use of bags, pages 24-67.)

Press release from The Texas State Board of Education – “In our effort to cleanse our public schools – all 20 of them since their funds now go to charter schools – we have ordered mandatory recitation of the 10 Commandments from a Christian point of view along with math questions such as: How many government contracts will $50,000 buy?”

Press statement from Barbed Wire & Billy Clubs, Inc. – “We are pleased to announce our contract for $1.2 billion from the Department of Homeland Security to do something, thanks to paper bags from McDonald’s.” Ashby can be bribed at ashby2comcast

Of deadlines and revolutions

The vagaries of print deadlines being what they are, I am writing this about a week before Thanksgiving but you're probably seeing it the day before or just afterward. Whichever way it goes, Happy Thanksgiving! (There, I've covered my bases.)

Recently, Thanksgiving has had a special association for me unrelated to the actual accoutrements of the holiday. That's because it just so happens that the week before Thanksgiving was the week, three years ago, that I began in this role as editor of the Fort Bend Star. I learned the hard way about the early deadline when I learned, virtually at the last moment, that my deadline for the next week's paper was three days earlier than I had expected, throwing out my plan for my first edition. Fortunately, I was able to get it out by the skin of my teeth.

I've told you before that I am something of a nerd, and I learned in a book many years ago that one characteristic that many nerds share

mortgage rates dipped from an average 6.43% in October 2024 to 6.25% in October 2025, per Freddie Mac’s weekly Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS). When combined with the slight reduction in median price, the typical Houston monthly principal and interest payment for a single-family purchase assuming a 20% down payment declined from $1,681.27 to $1,626.87 – a $55.09 savings per month or $661 per year. Single-family pending home sales in October were up a strong 13.1% year-over-year.

ATTORNEY FROM PAGE 1

and court precedent.

The question of SmithLawson’s authority over the hiring of outside counsel came to the fore when the Republican majority on Commissioners Court (including County Judge KP George after he switched his political affiliation from Democrat to Republican in June) voted – over the objection of Smith-Lawson and the two Democratic commissioners – an outside lawyer, Richard Morris, to advise the newly appointed citizens redistricting committee.

The argument was expanded later when the Republican majority hired another outside lawyer, J. Grady Randle, to offer a separate opinion on Smith-Lawson’s authority over all the county’s civil legal affairs.

In her own 12-page response to Gates’s request, Smith-Lawson reiterated the arguments she made since

Ken Fountain Editor

KFOUNTAIN@FORTBENDSTAR.COM

is that they have a fondness for cataloguing things. (Yes, I'm the kind of nerd who reads books about nerds.) I happen to have several large binders in my home office containing virtually all of the news stories, columns, etc. that I've published throughout my journalism career, going back to my days as a Navy journalist. Last week, I pulled out the binder containing my stories from my first months at the Fort Bend Star. Looking back, it's amazing how little I knew at the time about Fort Bend. After living here for a few years while going to UH after returning from California, I had returned here – after living for many

“These newly signed contracts typically become closings in the next 30 to 60 days indicating continued growth in the Houston housing market,” said Jones.

There were 38,316 active listings of single-family homes in October, a 25.7% increase from last year and about the same level as September. Supply also expanded to 5.2 months of inventory, while the national average sits at 4.6 months, as reported by the National Association of Realtors. Homes averaged 59 days on the market compared to 52 last year.

Broken out by housing segments, single-family home

the Republican majority on Commissioners Court first broached the idea of hiring Morris, whose firm is known primarily for its work for public school districts, over the firm she had recommended.

Citing numerous court opinions and previous attorneys general opinions dating back decades, SmithLawson asserted that under state law, Fort Bend County is one of only nine counties in Texas where the county attorney’s office has exclusive authority to handle the county’s civil matters.

But in his opinion, Paxton said that Smith-Lawson, as well as Harris County County Attorney Christian Menefee – who had also weighed in on the matter –interpreted some of the case law they cited “too broadly.”

“[Smith-Lawson] appears to suggest that her office’s hiring authority provides unilateral authority to contract with a firm of her own choosing to assist with the redistricting duties,” Paxton writes. “As explained earlier,

STATE OF NEW MEXICO COUNTY OF SOCORRO

SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT

TBC WY ADMINISTRATOR, LLC, a Wyoming limited liability company, as Trustee of Trust No. 8609, Plaintiff, vs. Docket No. D-725-cv-2025-00201 Murphy, Mercedes C.

ANDREA BENNETT-JENNINGS, Defendant.

NOTICE OF SUIT

TO ANDREA BENNETT-JENNINGS AND ALL OTHER CONCERNED PERSONS:

You are hereby notified that the Plaintiff has filed suit against you in the District Court of Socorro County, New Mexico, praying that your agreement to purchase real estate is null and void, stands forfeited and cancelled, and that title to the property stated in the complaint (Parcel 3-71 of the Highland Springs Ranch) be awarded to the Plaintiff and extinguishing any claim you may have therein.

Notice is hereby given that you are required to answer the Complaint within thirty (30) days of the last day of publication of this notice. If you fail to answer the Complaint, judgment by default may be entered against you.

Direct inquiries to: Brandon L. Jensen FALEN LAW OFFICES, LLC Post Office Box 346 300 East 18th Street Cheyenne, Wyoming 82003-0346 (307) 632-5105 Telephone (307) 637-3891 Facsimile brandon@buddfalen.com

years inside the 610 Loop –shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic. I kept abreast of local politics through various outlets (including the Fort Bend Star), but I hadn't met many of the players. Frankly, I was only vaguely aware of many of the issues at play.

Fairly early on in my tenure, I covered a meeting where there was an example of pure politics against a particular figure. Later I wrote a column in which I bemoaned the fact that it seemed that Fort Bend politics was becoming just about as ugly our national politics has been in the past couple of decades. This year, of course, we've seen that ugliness ratchet up even more, both nationally and locally.

On a somewhat related note, another aspect of my early deadline week has been that I haven't been able to diligently watch "The American Revolution," the six-part PBS documentary series directed by Ken Burns and Sarah Bolstein.

Now, like many of you, I first became aware of Burns and his

sales performed as follows:

• $1 - $99,999: increased 2.2% (95 transactions)

• $100,000 - $149,999: increased 27.% (193 transactions)

• $150,000 - $249,999: increased 9.1% (1,478 transactions)

• $250,000 - $499,999: unchanged (4,047 transactions)

• $500,000 - $999,999: increased 3.1% (1,277 transactions)

• $1M and above: increased 10.8% (329 transactions) HAR also breaks out sales figures for existing singlefamily homes. In October, sales edged up by 1.2% yearover-year, with 5,103 closings

however, that is incorrect.

The Commissioners Court may select and contract with an outside law firm to assist it in its redistricting duties under Chapter 42 [of the Texas Government Code] and the County Attorney may not unilaterally contract with a law firm of her choice to ‘assist’ with the Commissioners Court’s statutory obligation.”

While attorney general’s opinions are not legally binding, they generally are considered authoritative and generally are adhered to by state officials, Fort Bend County First Assistant County Attorney Michelle Turner told the Fort Bend Star in an interview after the opinion’s release.

In a news release, SmithLawson said, “As seasoned professionals, we understand that not all rulings align with our interpretation of the law. While we stand by our interpretation of the governing statutes, we also respect the ruling and will govern ourselves

an earlier effort by a private firm to redevelop the Imperial district, which ultimately floundered.

“”Preserving the Char House is about more than saving a building. It is about honoring Sugar Land’s history and the generations who built this community,” Mayor Carol McCutcheon said in a news release. “This work prepares the Char House for future redevelopment and ensures that generations of Sugar Landers can continue to experience a tangible piece of our city’s story as we shape its next chapter.”

This initial phase of preservation work will focus on essential roof, window, and structural repairs meant to halt further deterioration and bring the Char House back to a reusable condition, according the the release. Funding for this phase is included in a $50 million certificate of obligation approved by Council in April.

Earlier this month, the city held a series of Imperial Visioning Sessions in partnership with the Town Planning & Urban Design Collaborative in which residents, businesses, and other stakeholders

expansive documentary style with the airing, in 1990, of his excellent "The Civil War" series, which decades later remains a masterpiece of the form. As it happened, the series aired early in my tenure in the U.S. Navy. If memory serves, the series aired during the time my ship, an aging aircraft carrier, was being retrofitted at a California drydock outside of our home port of San Diego. I'd been a history buff from my earliest school days, and so I was very much looking forward to watching the series, which received a huge audience and tremendous critical acclaim. But as a young sailor in port in Southern California, I wasn't particularly eager to spend six straight evenings watching a documentary in my workspace aboard the ship, so I only saw it sporadically during its original run. It would be a few years later when I saw the whole thing on VHS tapes checked out from the local library, back before the term "bingewatching" was coined. When I'd learned about

compared to 5,044 a year ago. The average sales price increased 1.5% to $434,555, while the median price stayed at $330,000.

Townhome/ Condominium Update Demand for townhomes and condominiums slowed in October. Sales were 9.3% below last year’s level, with a total of 438 units sold compared to 483 in 2024. The average price fell 10% to $251,090, and the median price declined 11.9% to $205,000 — the lowest median price since January 2023, when it was $195,500. Inventory also expanded, with active listings increasing

accordingly.”

“We consider this matter resolved,” Smith-Lawson said in the release. “We look forward to continuing to provide robust legal counsel and support to the Fort Bend Commissioners Court, all County officials, and departments as we serve the residents of Fort Bend County.”

Among the members of Commissioners Court, the reaction to Paxton’s ruling was decidedly divergent, reflecting partisan lines.

“Today’s opinion ... is unfortunate and incredibly disheartening, as it serves as an affront to the actual rule of law,” Precinct 4 Commissioner Dexter McCoy, a Democrat who had been very vocal in defending Smith-Lawson’s position at Commissioners Court meetings, said in a news release.

“This opinion completely reverses previous AG opinions regarding the County Attorney’s statutory authority and completely ignores previous court rulings on similar topics,” McCoy said. “The Attorney General now con-

a year ago that Burns was training his lens on the Revolutionary War, I awaited it with huge anticipation. The trailers and advance reviews indicated that "The American Revolution", with the advantage of advanced filmgoing techniques, might even surpass "The Civil War" in its breadth and scope. I did watch the first episode on-air on November 16, but haven't been able to see it regularly, except in parts, since. This time, it's not due to living the lifestyle of a sailor in port, but out of more mundane reasons: covering night meetings and such for the newspaper. Sometimes, it's tough being an adult. But the parts I've seen indicated that my faith in Burns and his crew remains well-founded.

That period of history has long held a fascination for me. I first learned it in detail in a middle-school giftedand-talented class at Alief Middle School (how I got in will forever remain a history) taught by one of my favorite teachers of all time, Marilyn

29.8% to 3,450 units, pushing months of inventory from 5.8 a year ago to 8.3.

Houston Real Estate Highlights in October

• Single-family home sales increased 3.2% year-over-year.

• Days on Market (DOM) for single-family homes went from 52 to 59 days.

• The single-family median price declined 1.5% to $330,000.

• The single-family average price was statistically flat at $423,955.

• Single-family home months of inventory expanded to a 5.2-months supply, up from 4.4

tends that the Commissioners Court and any other official and employ outside counsel for any matter it wants, to affirm whatever the courts’ belief is at that time. This is a great danger to the liability of our institution and our taxpayers.”

County Judge George, in his own news release, said he was “thrilled at the news that the Attorney General’s Office has affirmed what we already knew – that we were well within our right to seek out the most competent counsel possible in fulfilling our statutory duties.”

“I am not surprised that the AG’s office reached this opinion because it is simply a matter of common sense that has existed for over one hundred years,” George said.

In a statement, Republican Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers said, ““In my 29 years as county commissioner, our authority to select outside legal counsel had not been an issue. However, the current county attorney claimed exclusive authority

Eichenbaum. Later, at Hastings High School, I took A.P. American History taught by the late, legendary Edward "Doc" Taylor, the namesake of another high school in Alief. Both of them had the ability to take material that could sometimes be dry and really make it sing. And neither of them was afraid to teach about the ambiguities of the time and the war, something that I appreciate even more in an era when it seems some political figures increasingly want to whitewash American history.

So, after the holiday season sets in and I get more time for myself, I'll be rewatching the series in full on the PBS. org website (after the recent budget cuts to public media, I'm particularly thankful this year that that remains an option). During what has been one of the most dispiriting years in recent American history that I can recall, it will be tonic for the soul.

Fountain doffs his tricorner hat at KFountain@ fortbendstar.com

months last October.

• Townhome and condominium sales were down 9.3% with 438 units sold. The median price declined 11.9% to $205,000, and the average price was down 10.0% to $251,090.

• Total property sales increased 1.6% with 8,768 units sold.

• Total dollar volume rose 1.9% to $3.5 billion. Editor’s note: The HAR report, lightly edited, is used by permission. Find the full report at har.com/content/ department/mls.

to select the law firm for legal counsel on redistricting—but she hired the firm that oversaw creation of the approved 2021 redistricting map that did not comply with all relevant state and federal statutes, hence the need for a mid-decade redistricting. She not only challenged our authority to select outside counsel but also claimed that payment of Commissioners Court-approved legal bills would be illegal.

“We needed clarity fast. We engaged the Randle Law Firm for a legal opinion. Their opinion: the commissioners court absolutely has this authority, and their opinion was confirmed by Texas Attorney General Opinion KP-0504 that the AG said was backed by more than 100 years of legal precedent,” he said.

Dennis Spellman, spokesman for Meyers, said it is expected that Morris, the outside attorney, would be paid by early Thanksgiving week.

were able to offer their ideas on the redevelopment of the Imperial district.

“This announcement comes on the heels of an incredibly successful week of community workshops,” Devon Rodriguez, the city’s redevelopment director, said in the news release. “It represents the momentum we’re carrying forward as we continue to move from visioning to action, with plans to release a request for qualifications early next

year to identify a private development partner.”

According to the release, TPUDC is scheduled to deliver the final deliverable to the city by the end of this year. Staff expects to have the final visioning document available for public view on the project webpage by early 2026. In Spring 2026, the City will move forward with a master developer selection process to advance the community’s vision for the site, according to the release.

Urbano will begin preservation design services immediately, which is expected to take approximately four months to complete. Preservation work is anticipated to start in April 2026 and take 18 to 24 months. For more information on the Imperial Historic District preservation project and visioning process, including recordings of the opening and closing visioning meetings, visit www.sugarlandtx. gov/imperialhistoricdistrict.

“By encouraging people to explore our local restaurants and bars on foot, we’re strengthening the bonds between residents, visitors, and businesses while showcasing the vibrant culture that makes Sugar Land stand out.”

Within the social district, visitors may carry beverages in clearly marked cups purchased and served from participating businesses. The Social District will operate Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2:15 a.m. and Sunday from noon to 2:15 a.m. Visitors are encouraged to keep beverages within district boundaries marked by signs and maps throughout Sugar Land Town Square and First Colony Mall. Outside of operating hours,

state law prohibits the public consumption of alcoholic beverages, and drinks must stay inside the establishment where they were purchased. Disorderly conduct, public intoxication and open containers in vehicles are strictly prohibited.

“Visit Sugar Land, in partnership with the Sugar Land Police Department, property managers, and participating businesses, will work together to ensure responsible participation and a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone within the district,” the release states.

“The Sugar Land Social District reflects our city’s trailblazing spirit and shows how we’re ready to redefine what a vibrant destination can be,” said Elizabeth Huff, Director of Economic Development & Tourism. “By bringing together our dining,

entertainment, and cultural experiences in a walkable setting, it creates a sweeter experience for residents, visitors, and groups alike, positioning Sugar Land as a great supporter to Houston as we prepare to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026™.”

In 2026, the district will offer FIFA World Cup-themed experiences inviting visitors to collect soccer-themed stamps in an official Sugar Land Social District passport. Guests who complete their passports will receive an exclusive Visit Sugar Land and FIFA World Cup 2026™ Houston collectible. Dates and details of these experiences will be announced soon.

Maps, participating businesses and district guidelines are available at visitsugarlandtx.com/socialdistrict.

Deadline is noon every Friday. Limit entries to the “5 Ws” Who, What, When, Where, and Why.

Email to editor@fortbendstar.com

FORT BEND COUNTY HISTORICAL COMMISSION MEETING

The Fort Bend County Historical Commission will hold its quarterly business meeting at 3 p.m., Tuesday, November 18, at the Gus George Police Academy Conference Room, 1521 Eugene Heimann Dr., in Richmond. Chandler Wahrmunde, an educator with the Texas Historical Commission at the Fanthorp Inn State Historical Site in Anderson, Texas will be the featured speaker, and will be discussing the history of the Fanthorp Inn, which dates back to 1834 and served as a stopping place for newly arrived settlers in Stephen F. Austin’s colony. The meeting is free and open to the public.

ONGOING

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES AT GPBC

In conjunction with the Literacy Council of Fort Bend Bend County, Grand Parkway Baptist Church will offer ESL classes on Tuesday nights from mid-August 2025 through May 2026. We are located at 12000 FM 1464, Richmond, across from Austin High School. Our students speak several languages and encompass many faiths, all are welcome. For more information call 281-277-2200 and ask for ESL information. You may also email ESL@grandparkway.org

EMMY-NOMINATED FORT BEND BOYS CHOIR HOLDING AUDITIONS

The Fort Bend Boys Choir is seeking talented young boys who like music and singing. If know of one, encourage him to audition for our award-winning and Emmy-Nominated Fort Bend Boys Choir! No experience is necessary and boys should be around eight years of age or older with an unchanged voice. Auditions are by special appointment at the First United Methodist Church Missouri City, 3900 Lexington Blvd., Missouri City, TX. Visit the Fort Bend Boys Choir’s webpage at www.fbbctx.org or call (281) 240-3800 for more details about auditions. Benefits as a choir member include greater self-esteem and selfconfidence, better work ethic and a sense of belonging and community. A boy’s voice has an expiration date so it is important to audition when boys’ voices are still unchanged. Auditions are free!

AMERICAN LEGION POST 942

311 Ulrich Street, Sugar Land meets the fourth Tuesday of each Month at 7:00 pm. All Veterans are welcome.

LOVING FRIENDS IS A GROUP OF WOMEN AND MEN WHO ARE WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS THAT MEET MONTHLY FOR LUNCH, FRIENDSHIP, AND SOCIALIZATION

Lunches. are planned for the fourth Tuesday of the month at various local restaurants. Please contact Bobbie Tomlin at {281} 967-0718

For more information about us and to learn about this month’s planned lunch. We hope to meet you soon.

VALLEY GARDEN CLUB

QUAIL

The Quail Valley Garden Club is very busy, not only with meetings, but with some fun “stuff” for our members and the community. Please find our fall schedule of events that the QVGC will be involved with this fall leading up to the holidays. FBJSL IS ACCEPTING CAF GRANT APPLICATIONS

We provide grants of up to $5,000.00 to charitable causes serving Fort Bend County with requests to fund a critical need, pilot a program, or expand a significant service to the community. If your agency or organization is interested in applying for a CAF grant, please visit the Request Support page of the FBJSL website (www.fbjsl.org/request-support). All applications should be submitted via e-mail to brccom@fbjsl.com.

THE SANCTUARY FOSTER CARE SERVICES

We are a child placing agency that provides wrap around care support for foster children and foster families. We provide free therapy services, 24 hr. crisis intervention, respite/alternative care services and community-based support. For more info, www.sanctuaryfostercare.org

ALIEF AARP CHAPTER 3264

Meets the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m. at Salvation Army Church, 7920 Cook Road, Houston, TX 77072. Educational Program/Entertainment at each meeting. Bus Trips every month. Seniors 50 and above invited. Call 281785-7372 for more information.

SUGAR LAND ROTARY CLUB

Sugar Land Rotary Club, the nation’s oldest community service organization, wants you to be its guest at a meeting that could turn out to be the best fit for getting involved with a local, non-political, humanitarian service organization with a global presence to satisfy your passion. We’re on a quest for new members! Call or email Dean Clark, 832-987-4193, sugarlandrotaryclub5890@gmail.com We just started a new evening club also. Contact me for more info.

FT. BEND ACCORDION CLUB

Meets on the 4th Sunday of every month from 2:pm - 4:pm at: CHRIST CHURCH

SUGAR LAND (in the Chapel) 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land, TX 77479 FREE and Open to the Public! We welcome everybody! If you play accordion, beginners to professional and would like to play Call, Text or email: Vince Ramos Cell: 281-204-7716 vincer.music@gmail.com.

LITERACY COUNCIL OF FORT BEND COUNTY

We enhance lives and strengthen communities by teaching adults to read. We need your help. Literacy Council is actively recruiting Volunteer Tutors to provide instruction for English as a Second Language (ESL) Levels 0-5, three hours a week. For more information, call 281-240-8181 or visit our website www.ftbendliteracy.org.

GIVE A GIFT OF HOPE

Give a Gift of Hope one-time or monthly. Your help provides access to therapies and services children with autism might otherwise go without. Please consider Hope For Three in your Estate, Planned, or Year-End Giving. Register now, or learn more about exciting events: www.hopeforthree.org/events.

DVD-BASED ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS WITH NO HOMEWORK REQUIRED Weekly class designed to help you understand and appreciate the Bible by giving you a better sense of the land and culture from which it sprang. The class meets at 9:30 am every Sunday at First Presbyterian of Sugar Land (502 Eldridge Rd.). For more information

EXCHANGE

FORT BEND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCESGOVERNMENTAL FUNDS FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,