United Republicans of Harris County News (blog)

A message from District Attorney Patricia Lykos

United Republicans Harris County — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:47:28 GMT

Thank you, United Republicans, for all you do!

We at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office are proud to serve and safeguard the people of Harris County, Texas.

The district attorney’s office represents the state of Texas in all criminal cases. It is our duty to see that justice is done and to protect the lives, property and rights of our more than 4 million citizens. We are ever mindful that the rule of law is the basis of a decent, robust civil society and that our office is the foremost guardian of justice and order.

The Harris County District Attorney’s Office is the leading law enforcement agency in the county. We are both sword and shield in protecting and defending the public. The office is staffed by extraordinary people and each is vital to accomplishing our mission.

Our responsibilities are varied and complex. We represent the state in all criminal matters and are statutorily and morally charged with the solemn duty to see that justice is done. We must ensure that the rights of both defendants and victims are protected, while vigorously prosecuting the guilty. To serve and protect the citizenry, the office launches initiatives and works collaboratively with all levels of government and the private sector to prevent, reduce and suppress crime. Always, we endeavor to improve the administration of justice.

Our office has implemented innovative programs and projects to disrupt gangs, prevent crime, protect victims, vigorously prosecute dangerous criminals and improve the criminal justice system. Process changes have been engineered and new technology employed to make the office more effective and efficient.

Below I have included a link to the office’s 2010 Year in Review and an announcement on our recent accolade for cleaning up area gang activity. I am pleased to share with you news of the great things we are accomplishing at the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.

Patricia R. Lykos

Harris County District Attorney

Click here to view the Harris County District Attorney’s Office 2010 Year in Review

DA’s Office Honored for Cleaning Up Gang Activity in Aldine Complex

Harris County District Attorney Patricia Lykos was honored recently by the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Office of the Inspector General (HUD-OIG) with a performance award for leading the effort to free the Haverstock Hills apartment complex from entrenched criminal street gang violence.

“From our first meeting we knew she was serious about stopping the cycle of violence at Haverstock Hills and letting the gangs know they could not rule the complex,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Robert Jones. “Her leadership was instrumental in pulling together a committed team comprised of the Sheriff’s Department, Houston Police Department, HUD-OIG and ATF to get rid of the criminal element.”

Last year Lykos filed Harris County’s first-ever civil injunction action against the gangs operating at Haverstock Hills. Statistics showed that in one year law enforcement agencies responded to more than 3,000 calls from Haverstock residents for help. Gangs had peddled narcotics, ran dice games on playgrounds, and engaged in gunfire, drug-dealing, assaults, prostitution, and intimidation at the complex for decades.

The injunction barred any gang-related conduct in a newly created 57-acre “safety zone” that included the apartment complex, a nearby elementary school campus and 11 area businesses. It also banned more than 50 known gang defendants from ever returning to Haverstock. The temporary order was made permanent in February. Armed with the court orders, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies continue to make sweeps of the area.

“I am very proud of the work we’ve done at Haverstock,” said Lykos. “The residents deserve to live in a place free from crime and violence. We cannot permit gangs to ‘own the night’ as they like to brag. We must let the gangs know that neighborhoods in Harris County do not belong to ‘hoods.’”

District Attorney Lykos began coordinating the anti-gang action nearly a year before the filing of the injunction. She set up a coalition of agencies, community organizations, schools, and faith-based groups along with Haverstock management to assist residents and offer real alternatives to the gang existence.

"U R in the Know" - August Edition

United Republicans Harris County — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 01:23:13 GMT

Well, it's summertime and the temperatures R HOT across the United States. And speaking of hot, we saw the equivalent in Washington during the debt ceiling crisis. Lots of media and talking heads weighing in and politicians pointing fingers as fast as they could. It was a long couple of weeks and one thing is for sure, the American people R concerned. How long will America's financial future be uncertain and will our Presidential Nominee have what it takes to beat President Obama. No one seems to be coalescing around one candidate yet and that is a great concern to many activists. Will our Governor, Rick Perry be in the hunt? The clock is ticking...................

On the local scene, the upcoming city elections R fast approaching with At-Large 2 reflecting a loaded race. Elizabeth Perez and Eric Dick R carrying the Republican torch and what about District A incumbent Brenda Stardig drawing an opponent, Republican activist and precinct chairman Helena Brown. Could a major issue between the two be "red light cameras?" Stay tuned. Helena Brown has already received the endorsements of Paul Bettencourt and former District A Councilwoman Toni Lawrence. What do U think of this development?

As well, the only Republican, Brian Cweren running in District C against three known Democrats received the Harris County Republican Party endorsement in June, one of the earliest endorsements ever on record for the county party. Way to go Brian! The Cweren Campaign is also pleased to be endorsed by the Houston Apartment Association...check out his website...www.brian2011.com

In At-Large District 5, running against incumbent Jolanda Jones R two Republicans, Jack Christie and Jack O'Connor. Say it ain't so Jack! Two great individuals whose base of support is grounded in west Houston running against an incumbent Democrat? We all know in the political world of Houston , that's an equation for failure. We must run only one Republican candidate when we go up against a Democrat in the City of Houston if we R to have a chance. We'll keep you posted on what happens.

R U gearing up for 2012? The buzz is getting louder. Longtime Republican State Representative, District 136, Beverly Woolley is retiring after an extraordinary record of public service. A possible replacement is Pam Holm, former Councilwoman for District G. We think Pam's a great fit for this important Republican stronghold. Pam, R U listening ?

Last, but not least, we'd like to tip our hat to longtime Republican Party Executive Director Jeff Yates for his years of loyal service to the Party. Jeff will still be aiding the party with special projects but will not be a full-time presence at the office as he pursues other ventures. Thank U Jeff for your hard work!

Until next time...Cheers!

Harris County Management Services Population Study - March 2011 - Commissioner Radack

United Republicans Harris County — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 01:12:26 GMT

Thank you to Harris County Precinct Three Commissioner Steve Radack for providing URHC with a copy of the Harris County Management Services Population Study.

We have included excerpts from the beginning of the study and it's conclusion. We know that many of you will be very interested in this study.

To read the full report click here: Population March 2011 final.pdf

Introduction

This is the twelfth report in an ongoing study of population changes in Harris County and their impact on demand for County services. The Census bureau released 2010 count data in late February and this report is a comparison of the 2010 count to the previous 2000 and 1990 census counts.

Harris County is Growing Fast

Harris County continues to be the nation's third most populous county with 4.1 million residents as of April 1, 2010 and one of the fastest growing counties in the US with a population increase of 20% since 2000 and 45% since 1990. Harris County contains all or part of 34 cities including Houston, the nation's fourth largest city. The following chart shows the population for Houston,
the other cities in Harris County and the Unincorporated area of the County.

The unincorporated area now represents 38% of the total county population, up from 31% in 2000.
Between 2000 and 2010, 75% of the growth in the county was in the unincorporated area.

Unique Unincorporated Area

Harris County is essentially home to the 2 largest cities in Texas if you consider the unincorporated area as a stand-alone city. The Census Bureau has not yet released 2010 count data for Arizona but there is a chance that Harris County Unincorporated may pass Phoenix in population which
would make it the fifth most populous "city" in the US.

Harris County is the only county in Texas and likely the only county in the US with such a
significant unincorporated area. The following chart shows the data for the top five "cities"
in Texas.

The Next Ten Years

The following shows the projected growth in population during the next 10 years assuming that
the growth patterns from 2000 to 2010 continue for Harris County with no significant areas
being annexed by the city of Houston.

The unincorporated area would pass the city of Houston in population by 2018 if the current trends continue. Total Harris County population would pass the 5 million mark in 2019. The next chart shows the population inside and outside the tollway assuming the same trends continue. Over 86% of the growth in population over the next 10 years would be outside the tollway.

Harris County government provides much of its services to residents throughout the County including
people living in Houston and surrounding cities and towns. There are some services, such as law enforcement and public safety, public health and animal control, and libraries that are provided primarily to the unincorporated areas of the County.

While nothing is certain, all indications are that Harris County will continue to experience
significant growth throughout the County in all 4 County Commissioner precincts and especially
in the unincorporated areas. The demand for infrastructure to support this growth, as well as
increased demand for services such as law enforcement and health care, will make it necessary
to maintain adequate sources of revenue for budgetary purposes.

Note: This study contains the following additional information on:

Population Spreading Out
Infrastructure and Growth
Harris County Precincts and Redistricting
Growth Trends by Area
School Enrollment Trends
Growth of Surrounding Counties
Sources of Revenue - Property Tax Levy
Growth in Number of Single Family Homes
Inflation plus Population Growth

To read the full report click here: Population March 2011 final.pdf

"U R in the Know"

United Republicans Harris County — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 22:55:44 GMT

Presidential Politics

Have U been tuning into the latest round of presidential sparring? Donald Trump and Mike Huckabee are tied with 19% in a potential Republican Primary with the rest of the field falling below that number. Trump continues to rise in the polls and in some is beating President Obama. Trump is getting lots of attention with his birther convictions and can be seen on various media outlets every day. Karl Rove said Trump was not a serious presidential contender while Trump fired back that it was Rove who ruined President Bush with his advice. Meanwhile Mike Huckabee is in a skirmish with Glen Beck who called him a Progressive. Huckabee in fine form shot back that Beck needed to stick to his conspiracy theories. Do U think this is going to be a long political season? Fasten your seat belts.

Houston City Politics

The City races are beginning to fill up with the new maps having been released. A new District has been formed which is J and many believe that was specifically designed for one liberal Democrat as well as another district in the Southwest Fondren area. Many Latinos of note are weighing in and expressing their displeasure that there was not a specifically designed Latino district. More to follow...

Many candidates have also stepped forward to run including Brian Cweren in C and At-large #2, Elizabeth Perez and Eric Dick.

Race for the United States Senate, Texas

Did U catch the latest news on who the Dems want to run for the U.S. Senate in 2012? Retired Lt. General Ricardo Sanchez appears to be gaining momentum. However, will the Dems warm to his former role in the military and some of his positions? Stay tuned.

What Can U Do to Make a Difference?

Get involved in the political process. Don't put if off, get your feet wet. Once U get involved in politics, U will see and feel the contribution U are making for our country...one step at a time.

Until next time...Cheers!

How about the 2012 Presidential Election?

United Republicans Harris County — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:25:42 GMT

It's not too early to start thinking about defeating President Obama. Candidates that are emerging are providing lots of interesting discussion. Newt Gingrich spends a good bit of time in Texas meeting with politicos and leaders in business while Mitt Romney has a good base in Dallas and some committed supporters ready to gear up for his campaign. Mike Huckabee will once again be the headliner at the Harris County Republican Party Reagan Day Dinner and has a great personality and a show on FOX while Sarah Palin, a friend to Dan Patrick and the Governor has become a media star, but is it enough to propel her to nominee status? Then there's Ron Paul who always carves out his own constituency. But there are several dark horses in the race including our own Governor who says it ain't so but has written a book and continues to have his name in the mix. And, what about "The Donald?" As in Trump of course. Did U know he's meeting with LOTS of people in Texas and appears to be getting more serious about a run for President?Don't forget that Texas is an extremely key state. Many conservatives like his business approach and charisma. WOW! There are many other names being floated and one thing is for sure, it will be one heated and spirited race. So, who do U like for President in 2012?

A New United States Senator For Texas

Talk about a BIG Primary in Texas! That's what 2012 is shaping up to be. President and U.S. Senator will be on the ballot. With the announcement of sitting Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison opting not to run in 2012, the field opens up for this important seat. Names being discussed with a couple of formal announcements are Michael Williams, Roger Williams, Ted Cruz, Elizabeth Ames Jones and of course the front runner, Lt. Governor David Dewhurst who has lots of statewide name ID. A big Houston name Drayton McClane will be Finance Chairman for Roger Williams' Campaign. This race means lots of money and key endorsements will make the difference between winning and losing. Will we see musical chairs at the top of the ticket? It's been done before...remember 1998?

Do U like TEA?

As in the Tea Party movement. We sure do and would enjoy the opportunity for members of this movement to become involved in United Republicans. We're all about coalitions and welcoming new ideas so get involved with our organization and watch the Party grow!

City Elections R Fast Approaching

We are being told that the new districts won't be carved until May or June, but lots of candidates are already preparing for a run. District C looks like it will be loaded with at least four candidates thus far organizing for the seat held by Anne Clutterbuck who is term limited. Races for at large seats are already starting to fill and talk about a potential Mayor's Race with a conservative is getting more play every day. The strategy...get three candidates in the race a la Lanier, Whitmire and Turner and win in a runoff. Tough proposition? Probably so, even though the city is strapped financially. The giant potholes all over town aren't any indication are they?

Candidate Training...We're gearing up for 2012

If U R interested in running, we will be holding training sessions for potential candidates beginning in August of 2011. Learn the ropes, what it takes to be a candidate and a winning strategy in our comprehensive program. From Precinct Chairman to President (well okay, maybe not President but certainly United States Senator!) U will learn key points that will make a difference in your race.

Visit us on Facebook...stop in and let us know what U think. How can we as Republicans do a better job, find common ground and ensure this is a party of many voices.

Until next time... Cheers!