Our taxes are too damn high. Every time there’s a problem in Houston’s government financially, the least creative option is always raising the taxes or taking it to the voters to raise their taxes, but everyone knowingly or unknowingly pays taxes, some just more than others. e homeowners, property owners, and business owners have always been overtaxed and underrepresented AKA taxation without representation. Our expectation of taxes will always be high and the reality of governmental service whether city, county, or HISD are far too low. I think audits are mandatory especially when you are dealing with taxpayer’s money.
Drainage fees are a tax but we still flood. Chapter 42 of the Code of Ordinances is a tax on the poor because even though they can’t afford to stay in the multi-unit/multi-milliondollar properties built on one residential lot their taxes still go up. Even though we have school closures in HISD our taxes still go up. Even though the idea of a garbage fee keeps coming up, our garbage and illegal dumping isn’t being picked up in a timely fashion, if at all. Year after year HPD says crime is down and they are shorthanded, but the reality is crime is almost higher than our taxes and the expectation of police presence and response time is lower than minimum wages of the taxpayers, but We the People still have to pay taxes whether high or low. Taxes are steadily increasing however city services are steadily decreasing or no longer exist in some cases. The city has to prioritize spending just like the hardworking people of the City of Houston/ Harris County.
Being overtaxed is just another form of price gouging. e quality, value, workmanship, and progress of city services doesn’t justify the dollar amount we pay in taxes. Any increase in taxes should mean a better quality of life, drivable streets, public safety, education, zoning, affordable housing that’s actually a ordable for the demographical area that it is built in, and city services versus just another BILL. Just as taxes are mandatory, so should superior city services be mandatory. e cost of living is up clear across the board by 25% or more whether its insurance, utilities, groceries, building materials, vehicles, and rent just to name a few. e taxpayers simply can’t afford another bill. Everything is on an increase except for wages. Whether it’s a garbage fee, bond debt, school tax, county tax, city tax, law suits, legal fees, or property tax, it’s still more money that tax payers simply don’t have to give, because there has always been more poor people than rich people. The only difference is that the poor don’t get tax breaks.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
