Montgomery County DA Mike McDougal helps TEC Promote Public Confidence in Government.

View TEC letter HERE.

WCSC possibly collected $32,015.00 or more!

Montgomery County Attorney, David Walker, In trouble with TEC

Montgomery County Attorney, David Walker, In trouble with Texas Ethics Commission

VOICE PAC Treasurer Receives TEC Complaint

The Woodlands Monitor REPORTS that the Voice PAC Treasurer, Rebecca Tatum, receives a TEC complaint notice.

Woodlands Community Service Corporations answer to the 2008 mosquito season.

County Attorney David Walker Working for the residents of Montgomery County?

David Walker may be on The Woodlands Development Company, The Woodlands Community Service Corporation and The Town Center Improvement District/Woodlands Township's payroll.
Walker does not return emails or phone calls, but he has time to visit the Woodlands Community Service Corporation behind closed doors to strike a deal.
He has since snubbed a public request for information to hopefully pacify residents who are complaining about advertisements in The Woodlands Right of Ways on Entergy poles.

Texas Ethics Commission & DA Mike McNoodle

COMPLAINT sent to Texas Ethics Commission Regarding Montgomery County District Attorney Mike McDougal.

The Woodlands Fire Department Life And Fire Safety (LAFS) Program

In a land far far away, A.K.A. Perry, Ohio (30 miles east of Cleveland) I remember sitting with my 3rd grade classmates in the cafeteria wondering why we were there. Not long after all the kids settled down, walked in 3 fully dressed firefighters (FFs) and all the kids gasped with excitement. The FFs showed us some simple equipment they use to fight fighters, explained Stop Drop and Roll along with other fire safety tips. Prior to leaving they handed out tooth brushes and told us all to brush our teeth. Not only did I learn valuable fire safety information, but I also made sure I brushed my teeth because the FFs told me that it was important. I am almost 38 and I still remember that day like it was yesterday.

There has been a lot said, some negative, about The Woodlands Fire Department's (WFD) Clown and Puppet program so I wanted to take a look at the program myself. The clowns are FFs with The WFD. I contacted Chief Alan Benson to schedule a time to visit a school and watch the program in action. The WFD has a limited amount of time during fire safety month in October to get their message to the kids. Since fire safety month was over I was invited to Central Station to watch a video that was filmed at one of the schools this year. The video was poor quality, but proved the following:

• The Clown's were able to keep a room full of children focused and quiet for nearly 30 minutes to learn about fire safety.
  
• The children interacted with the FF's which reinforced the safety message.
  
• The Clowns enjoy what they are doing and believe that their message is getting across to the children and I agree after seeing the video.

I requested a copy of the video at the meeting and later in writing and to date have not received a copy. I was given THIS VIDEO anonymously to better help my readers understand the program.

I asked to see the puppet show and was promised an invite for a show shortly after the meeting and did not receive an invite nor have I received any invites for a future show.

This year Approximately 8000 kids viewed the program in a 6 week period. Depending on the age group the kids learned the following in 2007:

1. Stop, Drop, Cover and Roll.


2. EDITH (Exit Drills In The Home).


3. Seat belt safety.


4. Call 911 for emergency.


5. Fire ABC's (always Be Calm).


6. Get low under the smoke and crawl to safety.


7. Kitchen safety and cool the burn with cool clear water.

FFs also visit senior centers to review the following:

1. Locate and how to exit safely


2. Location of fire extinguishers and how to operate.


3. hurricane evacuation procedures.

In the past there has been a lot of negative press regarding the Clown and Puppet program. After visiting with Fire Chief Alan Benson, Deputy Chief - Training Rick Windham, Deputy Chief Support Services Jerry Bittner (Deputy Chief - Operations Wayne Walker was not present) and FF TJ Moore and watching the video I believe the program is a good idea and should continue. A stack of thank you notes from the children who were in attendance of the program also validates it's effectiveness.

As the meeting ended I asked to see the controversial trailer used to haul the Clown and Puppet props and was told it was in storage. I've since learned that the trailer was behind the Central Station. I've inquired with Chief Alan Benson why I was not shown the trailer and have yet to receive a response. I hope the Chief will clarify where the breakdown in communication was regarding my request to see the trailer. Since sending the email to Chief Benson I was able to talk to a Deputy Chief and learned that the Clown and Puppet trailer has not been outfitted yet to carry the Clown and Puppet props. I am very confused with why the money was spent on this trailer and it doesn't appear that it's being used. I was also told that the trailer was used for multiple purposes and have not received a definitive answer to what other purposes the trailer is being used for.

Clown and Puppet Trailer

Another controversial issue is that the FFs were sent to a town 60 miles from Las Vegas for LAFS (Life And Fire Safety) training. Personally I don't believe this is an issue since it was a one time training session with may other Fire Departments (FDs) and maybe if the word Las Vegas was not in the mix, the critics would not be as upset. I hope that future training is done in house by the currently trained FFs so there is no need to spend anymore of the tax payers money. Other alternatives are online or DVD training to cut costs or working with local FDs to hone skills and come up with new creative ideas.

CLICK HERE FOR LAFS WEBSITE

Summary: The FFs are doing a good job with the Clown and Puppet program. I am not going to complain about past issues (ie: trailer cost & travel) since we don't know, and may never know, how many lives have been affected or saved from the program. I just ask that cost be considered in the future while keeping the program at it's current level of excellence. If the trailer truly isn't being used then it's my opinion that it should be sold and the profits be donated to charity. The FF's can continue to use the Fire Safety House to transport their props.

Fact: There has only been 4 structural fire deaths in The Woodlands since the WFD was established.

To TWFFs: THANK YOU and GOD BLESS YOU for all your hard work.

PS: Have any of the FFs noticed that most, if not all, hydrants are now free of vegetation? You're welcome. :-)

Precinct 3 Commissioner, Ed Chance, Approves CATW for SBP

Precinct 3 Commissioner, Ed Chance, Approves CATW for Sign Bandit Program (SBP). Program has not been decided yet. The program has not been finalized with the County Attorney's office. To the best of our knowledge any sign under $25 in value in The Woodlands Right of Ways (ROW) will be confiscated and destroyed. Also, to the best of our knowledge the owner of any sign over $25 in value in The Woodlands Right of Ways (ROW) will be fined $500.

Two Groups have been appointed by Mr Chance:
Community Activists of The Woodlands &
Community Associations of The Woodlands

Vote NO NO NO

Montgomery County Northstar - advanced transportation system

I met with Mr Fred Koehler, Traffic Manager Precinct 3 Montgomery County, to discuss traffic cameras, red light cameras and Road/signal light construction in The Woodlands.

I'd first like to let everyone know that the atmosphere in this office is awesome, much better than most government offices. I've worked with Mr Koehler on several issues so he knew I had an interest in what they were doing; why and how. The easiest way to explain my experience and to espress the information I learned would be FAQ style. Mr Koehler would like to remind all that the doors are always open for people to see their systems and where tax dollars are being spent. It's important to note that Mr Koehler takes the 'long' way to work and back to hit 65 intersections each way to ensure all is in order. It's my belief that he does not get paid extra for this. On behalf of Community activist of The Woodlands and residents of The Woodlands, thank you!

1. You have this very elaborate (see above photo) traffic system with 250 cameras between 23 & 46 optical zoom. Whose watching? The Traffic division has someone watching the cameras 24x7 with 4 employees. The system can be accessed from employees homes as if they were in the office. The Sheriffs Office, Houston Tanstar and Montgomery County traffic assist has remote wireless access.



2. What are the cameras all about? The entire camera system, which is handled remotely, includes 150 miles of fiber which has been purchased / leased wisely to ensure there will always be connectivity. Nothings perfect, but in my opinion they have done their best. As mentioned before there are 250 cameras with zoom capacity between 23 & 46. Mr Koehler showed me the distance a 23 camera could zoom and rotate and I was very impressed with the clarity and the ability for the camera to see the exact spot required. In the same photo above you can see there are two large screens with smaller screens, there are also additional monitors on traffic managers desks, in the middle. The middle screens are monitoring all cameras 24x7 and will alert trouble spots that can be enlarged on the bigger screens. None of the cameras are recorded, they are simply used for real time monitoring. Recording all 250 cameras, even with a 10-20 minute re-record would require a huge amount of storage space and the county does not believe it would be beneficial, mostly due to cost. The only exception for recording are the red light cameras, which are recorded and every hour or two the information is dumped to the red light management company in Arizona.



3. Why do we have the cameras? Safety is the first logical reason. If you are having car trouble on I45 the traffic managers may notice that and send support. The assistance program or Sheriffs office often call in and ask if cars are stranded at certain locations and to get vital information about accidents to save valuable travel time and get the proper response team to the location. The cameras are incredibly beneficial at intersections during morning and evening rush hours. Signal timing can be manipulated from miles away to ensure traffic flows out of and into The Woodlands as best as possible.



4. Why does it take so long to drive down Woodlands Parkway? First we all need to understand that Woodlands Parkway is not a traditional parkway. It may have been a parkway back in the day when the first and only exit was Grogan's Mill. Woodlands Parkway is actually a limited access road. Limited access basically means there are no driveways on the road, just intersections. "Woodlands Limited Access Road" just doesn't have much flare so we'll have to deal with Woodlands Parkway at this time. So back to why? If it was a perfect world and everyone started at the exact same location, stayed in their own lanes and ALL did the exact same speed then the system would be amazing. The real world; the person entering Woodlands Parkway from the flyover during rush hour may be in perfect position to make it all the way past Gosling and not hit one red light. Well, as soon as this person hits the parkway; 6 cars have already run red lights at the smaller cross streets, 25 cars have switched lanes in front of this persons car and people are driving anywhere between 40 and 65. This all happens before the person hits Grogan's Mill Road. Then BAM, two lanes after Grogan's Mill. The traffic manager do their best adjusting the timing after Grogan's Mill, but by that time so many people have switched lanes, run red lights and varied their speed that they can only do so much. Cars make 65K trips through the light on Woodlands Parkway at the East Panther Creek intersection daily. Traffic lightens after the Panther Creeks and Gosling intersections, but with the grouth in The Woodlands, you can guarantee it will only get worse. The Woodlands Developer is responsible for all new road construction in The Woodlands. The Roads are later conveyed to the Montgomery County. The County has little to no say on adding more access roads into The Woodlands from I45.



5. How does the system know a car, motorcycle or person is at an intersection waiting? You will see from the photo that some areas where there are cars have green boxes around them and some areas that have no cars have a empty black box where a car could possibly approach. Once a car enters the black box it turns green and the system knows there is a car there and makes sure that the car is put into the lighting rotation. If there are no cars at one side of an intersection the system will simply ignore that part of the intersection and worry about getting the traffic through the areas that have cars. Montgomery County has taken care of motorcycles too. Gone are the days of having to make sure your bike is on the embedded metal strip in the road to trigger the light. Similar to the cars, once a motorcycle hits the black bog, it will turn green and now be in the signal rotation. Pedestrians, who hit the crosswalk button, will be put into the rotation and even though it may not seem like it, the pedestrians waiting time is shortened by hitting the button. It wouldn't make sense to stop traffic immediately for a person to walk across the street.



6. Why does it take so long to install and activate traffic lights? Currently signal lights are being installed down a major section of Lake Woodlands that have traditionally been stop signs to ease the congestion of motorist using Lake Woodlands to get in and out of The Woodlands. I specifically asked about Lake Woodlands and New Trails. Mr Koehler assured me that they have that intersection first on their list. The issue with a large project like this is that the infrastructure, all down Lake Woodlands, needs to all be in place prior to putting up the lights. The plan is to start at New Trails and move into The Woodlands. I also learned that every intersection is designed from scratch. So that basically means that there's not a pile of poles and lights just waiting. I found that interesting and can only imagine the cost. Again the Woodlands Developer runs the show on new construction and then conveys to the County.



7. Some lights trigger as soon as I drive up to the intersection, why? A perfect example of this scenario is the light at Gosling and Shadowbend. Since the congestion is not high at this intersection and it's not on the major grid, it's an independent light. The system still sees the cars in the green boxes and changes the signaling rotation immediately. This type of independent signaling would be impossible on Woodlands Parkway since the traffic would constantly stop due to traffic coming off the multiple intersections.

George Mitchell Nature Preserve Grand Opening

The Woodlands is now part of the Spring Creek Greenway Project. Visit THIS site for more information about the portion of the project in The Woodlands.

Mr Robert Collins, Montgomery County Pct 3 Special Counsel, is very excited about this project. Their website states: The Spring Creek Greenway will connect and protect up to 12,000 acres of forest on both sides of the creek, preserving a sociological gem and creating a mecca for ecotourism, education and outdoor recreation just north of Houston.

The Trail in The Woodlands is a 1/2 mile out and back (1 mile total) nature trail with signage to ensure you don't get lost in the woods. Plans are to extend the trail as land is purchased and donated through the years. While visiting the site I noticed that the forest was only slightly impacted by the trails and they even used fallen treas to border the trail at certain locations.

Attorney Nets Marijuana Rap. NOT CONFIRMED - POSSIBLE PARODY

Out of respect for someone, who will remain anonymous, I have removed this post.
Though I didn't appreciate the language (but can certainly handle it), I did appreciate the fact the someone took the time to call.
Apparently residents can find this information on microfilm. Go check it out and let me know!

Hidden Proposition 4 - Village Stickers (parody)

Town Center Improvement District (TCID) asks Cochran's Crossing resident, Joe Merrill, to pilot new Woodlands Township "Village Sticker" program.
After 11-6, if you voted yes for all 3 props and all 3 props pass, then hidden prop 4 will also pass.
TCID has 'stolen' this program idea from the village of Panther Creek, but have put a spin on it so only Woodlands Township gets credit.
Woodlands Township will create stickers of different shapes, fonts, colors, sizes & paper quality (possibly leather for CW) for each village.
Naturally GM will have the cheapest/smallest quality sticker while CW will have the the more expensive/larger stickers.
If Hidden prop 4 passes ALL residents of Woodlands Township will be required to physically pick up their stickers no later than 11-7-07 at any Woodforest Bank. Stickers will range from $30/set-GM to $180/set-CW and need to be renewed annually. You will need to purchase a set of stickers for each Car or Motorcycle your family owns.
As the below photo (Photo A) shows the sticker in the back window needs to be right in the middle of the window so people behind you can clearly know your status. Woodlands Township will be outlawing rearview mirrors and require that all cars be equipped with side mirrors (Photo B) similar to these which can also be purchased at any Woodforest bank for $300/pair with an $80 instillation charge. The purpose of the back window siticker is to let villages of a higher status pass you at any rate of speed. The front Stickers (Photo C) will need to be placed smack dab in front of your face. As you can see from the photo, the sticker is typed in a way that cars in front of you can easily see your status from their side mirrors. Having the sticker smack dab in front of you is against the law, but Woodlands Township believes knowing where you fit in the community is more important.
Motorcycles will be required to have a full front sticker on each helmet (Photo D) which will also be easy for people to know your village status from their side mirrors. Not shown is that from the inside of the helmet your village status is also visible so that you never forget where you stand in Woodlands Township. The back of the helmet (Photo not shown) will simply need your village sticker so people from a higher status village will know if they can pass you at any rate of speed. As before, Woodlands Township does not care that you will not be able to see out the front of your helmet, status is more important.

Voluntary Bandit Sign Program

Ed Chance, Commissioner Precinct 3, has confrmed that Joe Merrill with Community Activist of The Woodlands will be part of the Voluntary Bandit Sign Program. To date, Community Associations of The Woodlands is the only other organization that has offered to volunteer.
The voluntary Bandit Sign Program is designed to give trained organizations or individuals the authority to confiscate and destroy any signs in The Right of Ways of The Woodlands.

Joe Merrill of Community Activists of The Woodlands speaks at WCA Board of Directors Meeting

Topics include:
Woodlands Community Service Corporation handling signs in the right of ways incorrectly since 1973.

Joe Merrill apologizing to the Family of Bruce Tough, WCSC & WFD Staff and the Board of Directors in The Woodlands.

Click on image to read speech.

MC DA Mike McDougal's Letter to WCSC GM Don Norrell Regarding Illegal Signs in The ROW's

Montgomery County District Attorney, Mike McDougal, sends letter to The Woodlands Community Service Corporations General Manager, Don Norrell, regarding Illegal Signs in The Woodlands Right of Ways.

McDougal says:
"...to the extent possible, please advise your associations to discontinue placing any kind of signs in the public road rights-of-way and discontinue charging "removal fees" for the removal of signs in the public road rights-of-way."
Click picture to view letter.

The Woodlands Development Company Cleans Sculpture in Cochrans Crossing

The Woodlands Development Company Cleans Sculpture in Cochrans Crossing.


We're not sure if they took advantage of the Sculpture Cleaning Kit 1.0 or not, but it certainly looks better.


Thank YOU!


Sculpture BEFORE and Sculpture AFTER.

State Bar of Texas Grievence -- Mr. Bruce Tough

Click image to view complaint.

Community Activists of The Woodlands Volunteers for Bandit Sign Program

Letter from Don Norrell to Board of Directors, including reference to MORE legal Counsel, and Press Release.

To: Association Board Members



As all of you are aware, a complaint has been was lodged again the Community Associations of the Woodlands regarding the placement of signs in the boulevard. This complaint was filed with the District Attorney and the County Attorney and alleges that the practices in regard to the placement of signs in street right of ways, as adopted under The Woodlands Residential Development Standards, may be in violation of state law.



In order to try and resolve this issue in an expedient manner, I believe that it is essential that we suspend the processing of accepting applications from residents or organizations interested in securing conditional approval for placement of signs in the right of way. I am not suggesting that we change the rules at this time / a change in the rules will require action of the DSC and DRC. What I am recommending is that we suspend all applications for the placement of signs in the road right of way until we can discuss and resolve this matter with the County Attorney and County representatives. If changes in our process are necessary, I plan to propose appropriate process changes once we have concluded discussion with the County regarding this matter.



The County has been our partner in the maintenance of The Woodlands community and we need to do everything possible to continue this very positive relationship. We also need to assure that all of our actions are in compliance with state law.



I will communicate to the County Attorney and the District Attorney that we are voluntarily suspending our current application policies and procedures. Over the next few weeks, we will work with our legal counsel (Randy Bays) to discuss these issues with County officials and hopefully develop an acceptable plan to allow us to move forward with an acceptable defined process.



In regard to the removal of signs from the boulevard, Montgomery County has named the WCSC as a volunteer entity that is allowed to remove bandit signs from the boulevard. Over the next couple of weeks, we will be working with the County to get this approval in writing and to also train our employees and volunteers. This training is required by the County. Until we complete the required training which will take up to a couple of weeks, I am instructing our staff not to pick up bandit signs that may be placed in the road right of way. We want to assure that we comply with all county standards prior to initiation of this enforcement process.



Please call me if you have any questions.



Don







Release for 10/17/07

The Community Associations of the Woodlands have voluntarily suspended processing of applications from residents and organizations interested in placing signs in the road right of way. Previously, committees of the Community Associations reviewed sign applications filed by residents and organizations requesting that they be allowed to place conforming signs in the public right of way. If these signs were allowed by covenant standards, the applicant received conditional approval for the sign subject to their ability to secure approval from the appropriate governmental agency before placement of the signs.



Historically, two committees representing the Community Associations have administered the covenant standards for the placement of signs on property in The Woodlands. These committees have reviewed all applications to assure that signs placed on private property and in road right of ways conform to the requirements of The Woodlands Residential Development Standards. These committees have always recognized that their authority is limited to the approval of the size and type of sign allowed by covenant standards and have directed applicants to seek the authority of the appropriate governmental agency prior to placing signs in the road right of way.



Recently, a resident filed a complaint with the District Attorney and the County Attorney regarding this matter alleging that the Community Associations have violated the law with the covenant sign approval process. In order to resolve this issue as quickly as possible, the Community Associations are voluntarily suspending the processing of applications relating to the conditional approval of signs in the road right of way (conditioned on County approval) and will work with County officials to resolve this matter. The Community Associations of The Woodlands are committed to a process that meets the requirements of state law.

CATW Helps The Woodlands Decide

CC Sculpture

After multiple unanswered emails, I asked for permission to clean this sculpture myself.
I have received word from The Woodlands Development Company that it has finally been cleaned.

Montgomery County District Attorney to Send The Woodlands a Letter regarding bandit ROW sign Issue

Community Activists of The Woodlands has received confirmation from The Montgomery County District Attorney's Office that signs in The Woodlands Rights-of-Way are illegal.

McDougal States: "I am sending a letter to Mr. Powers advising him of my opinion and asking him, to the extent he has any authority, to discontinue placing any signs in the rights-of-way of the roadways in The Woodlands, Texas; further, that the "Woodlands Residential Development Standards" are ineffective as to the placement of signs in the rights-of-way in The Woodlands, Texas; and that the "fines" provided for in the residential standards are not collectible."

Please contact Don Norrell at 281.210.3800 to request your refund.

Woodlands Groups Continue to Break the Law.

Signs Signs Signs.

If you have been paying attention you will know that Community Activists of The Woodlands (CATW) is doing everything possible to keep The Woodlands beautiful.

The Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC) General Manager, Don Norrell, said on March 22nd, 2007 "The Woodlands is a beautiful community that should be kept that way through reasonable rules and common sense enforcement"

Unfortunately Mr Norrell's definition of Common Sense enforcement differs from the law.
CATW submitted THIS document to The Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constables Office today.

State Senator, Robert L Nichols, agrees with CATW that signs in the right of ways are illegal in THIS document.

Montgomery County Attorney, David Walker, stated the following regarding signs in the right of ways: "They are illegal. Placement of signs in public right-of-way is illegal."

When CATW asked Montgomery County District Attorney, Mike McDougal, his opinion on the signs in the right of ways and if we should contact the constables he had this advice: "That would be my advice, although I don't know if the constable can take the signs. He can issue tickets to them for Class C misdemeanors."

So now it's up to Mr Norrell to do what's right within the law.
-or-
for Chief Deputy Jeff McLaughlin to enforce the law.

Bruce Tough Pays Texas Ethics Commission Fine

Bruce Tough agrees to pay $100 fine for Texas Ethics Commission violations. TEC a $100.00 fine.

Introducing Community Activists of The Wodlands LABS

In the past few weeks Community Activists of The Woodlands (CATW) has made The Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC) aware of THIS SCULPTURE in Cochran's Crossing and its state of decay. The WCSC quickly bounced CATW to the Woodlands Development Company (Developer) for assistance. The Developer told CATW that they would need to contact their "Sculpture Consultant" for advice. Emails sent to the Developer for an update have gone unanswered.
CATW has since expanded into research and development with our new division called CATW LABS.
Since the developer is in the middle of trying to ensure that The Town Center Improvement District annexes The Woodlands, CATW wanted to help.
Introducing SCULPTURE KIT 1.0!
An email will be sent to the developer with our LABS results and hopefully the sculpture will be cleaned by first quarter 2009.

Community Activists of The Woodlands and Texas State Senator Robert L Nichols Agree on State Law With Signs in ROW's

Community Activists of The Woodlands has been working the better part of 2007 fighting to get illegally collected fines returned to residents of The Woodlands. A PERSON MAY NOT PLACE A SIGN ON THE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF PUBLIC ROAD UNLESS THE PLACEMENT IS AUTHORIZED BY STATE LAW.
The Woodlands Community Service Corporation(WCSC), the "private" company hired by the three Home Owners Associations of the woodlands does not agree with Senator Nichols.
The below document clearly states that the WCSC has no right to approve the placement of signs in the right-of-way or fine anyone who does place a sign in the right-of-way.
Call Mr Don Norrell, WCSC General Manager, to ask for a refund if you have been sent a threatening letter and paid a fine.
Mr Norrell can be reached at 281.210.3800

Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) Investigating Robert Eissler

Montgomery County and surrounding areas continue to keep The TEC busy. Robert Eissler, Texas State Representative, is the latest politician to be investigated with a category two violation. CLICK HERE TO VIEW TEC COMPLAINT AND RESPONSE.
You can read more about the TEC HERE.

Mr Tom Campbell & Resident Funded Trips

Mr Tom Campbell has been on many resident funded trips and CATW wonders what he is doing? What are any Directors doing on these trips that they couldn't do here in The Woodlands. Did our water rates increase from what our directors learned on the trips/retreats? Have the residents of The Woodlands gotten their $3831.03 out of Tom Campbell as a MUD Director? We hope that Mr Campbell is working hard for the residents of The Woodlands.

Where is the Plaza?

CATW sent this letter to The Woodlands Development Company for assistance with an eye sore in Indian Springs. We would ask for the Indian Springs elected Director, Mr Lloyd Matthews, for assistance, but all he could say was "I'm very Sad..." when asked about the project.

Cochran's Crossing Quickly Becoming an Old Village

Sculpture on Lake Woodlands at Shadowbend Park

It wasn't long ago that Cochran's Crossing was way out there and it wasn't uncommon for people to not want to move here since it took so long to get to I45. Wow, times sure have changed. It's our responsibility to make sure our Directors ensure our association dollars are being spent in your village or at least in your association, be it the Woodlands Community Association (WCA) or The Woodlands Association (TWA). The WCA is quickly being pushed to the back burner since the TWA's developer controlled board is running the show. CATW learned that The Woodlands Developer is responsible for all the sculptures in The Woodlands, including maintenance. This sculpture is in desperate need of attention. The Developer has been made aware of the situation and we hope they will do the right thing and revitalize the sculpture.

There was a sculpture "stolen" from Cochran's Crossing recently. Recognize the Mirage II? It used to be on Research Forest in front of the Cochran's Crossing shopping center.

Mirage II on Lake Woodlands

$731.76 for Something that could have been done in The Woodlands?

Mr Jeff long, President of the Woodlands Community Association (WCA), spends at least $731.76 of residents money in Austin.
What is the WCA? The WCA is a Homeowners Association (HOA), nothing more - nothing less. The definition of a HOA is: An organization of homeowners residing within a particular development whose major purpose is to maintain and provide community facilities and services for the common enjoyment of the residents.

So why is Jeff Long spending our money meeting with Tommy Williams in Austin? Both Tommy Williams and Jeff Long live in The Woodlands so why meet in Austin regarding a HOA?

$18,300.00 to WJPA Directors in 1Q 2007 while residents water bills rise.

If people listened to the Woodlands Joint Powers Agency (WJPA) then we would all be running away from The Woodlands looking for water.
With Salary's like THIS, it's no wonder they need more of our hard earned money.


While we are all being tiered, let's not forget that there is NOT a water shortage, but possibly poor planning.

Our water does not disappear

Bruce Tough, Woodlands Fire Department Pesident, Comments on Chief Benson

TheWoodlandsMonitor.com uncovered inappropriate use of residents money.

Bruce Tough said:
"Chief Benson, in anyone's opinion, is an exemplary fire chief"

Are Residents of The Woodlands Paying Double for Services?

Community Activists of The Woodlands (CATW) recently uncovered another instance where residents are paying double for services. On June 24th we first uncovered THIS issue. Recently we found that The Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC) is also removing graffiti for the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA). It's important to note that the WCSC removed the graffiti without first asking the SJRA. CATW believes that there should be some type of a financial agreement between any entity that needs graffiti removed and the WCSC.
What do you think?

ARGH! Pirates in The Woodlands!

Photo removed due to inappropriate content.
Mr Nunes, Director for the Woodlands Community Service Corporation, did his best to have graffiti removed as soon as possible.

Post Removed out of respect for Public Official

The Woodlands Development Standards Committee (DSC)

Mr Joe Merrill, founder of Community Activists of The Woodlands, possibly in process of being turned down for a DSC appointment.
On June 27th Joe Merrill sent THIS request to the Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC) and has not heard back from the WCSC regarding a yes or no decision.
Mr Norrell, WCSC General Manager, advised "The Woodlands Community Service Corporation provides staff services to the DSC / we do not make the decision on DSC appointments. . The DSC will interview the candidates and then make a recommendation to the WCA Board for the appointment. The formal approval of the appointment will be on the WCA agenda when the recommendation comes forward from the DSC."
Since June 27th both the DSC and the WCA boards have met.

New CATW Poll

Please take the time to vote on CATW's Google Blog poll at the top right corner of this blog.

COMMUNITY ACTIVISTS OF THE WOODLANDS TO GET INFORMATION DUE TO AN ATTORNEY GENERAL COMPLAINT

Community Activists of The Woodlands (CATW) continues to work hard for residents of The Woodlands.
Read THIS letter from Michael Beller, Attorney for the Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC).
Notice that the letter from Beller to the Attornery General reads: Attention: Ms. Claire V. Morris Sloan and also reads Dear Mr. Simpson?
Even though the WCSC previously chose to only supply information for 2007, they have since promised to do an "additional search".... We will post their search results.
Update: Thanks to a current Board of Directors efforts, CATW has received the requested information that the Attorney General denied. The Board of director agrees with CATW the if it's in the operating budget then it's public information.

Bruce Tough Trip

Post removed since the WCSC board of directors concluded that Mr Tough acted within the current travel policies.

Everybody's..... Scared or Somethin'

Listen to this very interesting recording from the DSC meeting at the association building last night.
We have great respect for The Woodlands law enforcement who pound the pavement so we will not make any comments.
We've personally heard the story from a couple different angles so ask people who were involved to please comment.
We couldn't find anything about this issue on the associations site.

AG complaint against WJPA

Community Activists of The Woodlands recently filed a complaint with The Texas Attorney General against the Woodlands Joint Powers Agency.
Jim Stinson believes that their current fee bill is adequate, but CATW disagrees. Itemized bills are a standard and that's why we get them, even on our water bills.

Domain Names

CATW purchased several domain names.
You can purchase domain names at www.godaddy.com

Bruce Tough Survey

Post removed out of respect for public servent. Until a secure tool is found to conduct polls, CATW will simply use Googles BLOG poll, top right of this blog, for nformational purposes only. Results are not valid as people can vote more than once by simply rebooting their computer or going to another computer.

Texas Board of Architectural Examiners

New Blog created, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners - TBAE.

If you could be a Sharpie, what color would you be?

Bruce Tough Trip

While reviewing this information regarding a trip Mr Bruce Tough took to Austin, a couple things stuck warrant your attention. $40 for valet parking at the Austin Omni Hotel? Maybe valet parking is mandatory at the hotel? If so, should Mr Tough use better judgement when picking hotels for trips that residents are paying for? CATW believes that Mr Tough may have taken family members on this trip. Below receipt is a supporting document for this assumption.
Update: The WCSC board of directors ave concluded that Mr Tough did not violate any travel policies.

John Powers Refuses to Answer resident Email

For those of you who want to know who is wasting whose time, please see this. Mr Powers not only ignored a resident, but then wasted everyones time with an information request. CATW has not yet received an answer to the questions that were asked. You can contact Mr Powers and ask him to answer the simple questions.

The Woodlands VOICE PAC

CATW purchased domain names http://TheWoodlandsVoice.com/ and http://TheWoodlandsVoice.org

Community Activists of The Woodlands Assists TCID with Critical Information

Due to a public information request, a productive employee at TCID, and CATW - crime rate is cut in half.
The TCID Fact Sheet has been updated to read: Crime rate 1/2 the national average (CAP Risk Assessment).

Donating Made Easy Idea

Please consider making donations to support CATW's many efforts.
Please note in your donation if you would like donation ear marked for specific issue.

Texas Ethiscs Commission made aware of Claude Hunters campaign finace report errors.

CLICK ON PICTURE FOR DETAILS

Crime Rate Double?

The TCID Fact Sheet claims "Crime rate less than 2 times national average"
For example:
(Let's just say The Woodlands and TCID were the same size and every variable was equal)
If The Woodlands had 500 crimes last month, TCID's would have nearly 1000 crimes.

We hope this is an error and will be corrected soon.

Mr Norrell comments on Porn during Resident funded trips

CATW received this letter From Mr Norrell.

WJPA and TEC

Community Activists of The Woodlands, Texas (CATW) has learned that ANOTHER Director/Trustee (D/T) from The Woodlands Joint Power Agency (WJPA) may be investigated by the Texas Ethics Commission (TEC). This is one of the lists of D/T's.

ARE RESIDENTS OF THE WOODLANDS PAYING TWICE FOR EVERYTHING?

CATW recently inquired about the process behind having graffiti removed from a signal box on the corner of Gosling and Shadowbend.
Ms Lisa Morris, The Woodlands Community Service Corporations (WCSC) Records manager, sent me this document.
We have questions.

1. Why did the WCSC remove the graffiti if Montgomery County (County) owns the box?
2. Is this standard operating procedure County wide? Do Conroe residents pay to have graffiti removed from County owned property? Remember that Woodlands residents pay the County to have right of ways (landscaping, trash removal, etc...) maintained just so the WCSC can charge us too and do it on their own.
3. Does the WCSC keep records on how much anything costs? See this as an example.

Rosemary Roe and TEC complaint

CATW received a copy af a Texas Ethics Complaint against Rosemary Roe, A Woodlands Joint Powers Agency Trustee.
Picture has been removed out of respect of public servent and CATW asumes she regrets her poor judgement.

The Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC) Code of Conduct

With factual data regarding inappropriate conduct within The Woodlands governmental bodies, CATW did some of its own investigating. We were shocked to learn that an executive member of the WCSC has been caught watching porn on resident funded trips. We asked Mr Don Norrell, WCSC General Manager, if this was appropriate and as you can see, he said yes. We encourage all to let Mr Norrell know how you feel about this behavior.

ETHICS SURVEY

Surveys no longer valid. Pleasae use survey at top right corner of this blog. Data colledted is not factual since people can vote more than once if they want.

The Woodlands Association Board of Director President, Joel Deretchin.

Video removed out of respect for public servent. CATW hopes that Mr Deretchin regrets his actions and hasa apologized to Mr Tyson.

Openly providing public information or finally "giving in"?

Read this blog and watch the video provided by The Woodlands Monitor.
It's amazing how the Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC) fights, with residents dollars, to keep public information out of residents hands. It's also amazing how the WCSC will act like it's business as usual when they finally do what's right.
Here is an example from the email Ms. Connell sent out to the media. Note: CATW is a member of the media, even provided credentials that no other journalist was required to provide, and Ms. Connell did not send to CATW.

"Agenda packets for board and committee meetings are now available online, accessible through a link near the top of the respective agenda page, once the packets are ready. Agendas are still posted 72 hours in advance of the meeting; agenda packets will be posted when they are ready, according to the policy."

I also noticed that there was no news or press releases from 5-21 to 6-11 of 2007. With all that is going on in The Woodlands there should be daily updates. Look at the pattern in release dates and let us know if you think it looks like they are working around local papers publishing dates.

WHO AM I?

This blog has been removed since Don Norrell has advised that WCSC Assistant GM, who was watching porn on resident funded trip, acted within his rights as a US citizen.

Who holds the honor of sitting on the most boards in MC?

Survey not valid. Please uses survey at top right corner of this blog. This survey is not 100% factual since some can vote more than once if they choose to.

WFD

Please see CATW News story.

Where's Waldo.... Wait, Where's The Woodlands Fire Hydrant?

Most everyone likes to play games, but I for one don't like to play "Where's The Woodlands Fire Hydrant?"
Nobody wins this game and I hope The Woodlands Community Service Corporation, The MUDS, City of Houston, The Woodlands Fire Department, or whoever is responsible will step up and make sure ALL hydrants are visible and in proper working condition..

Fire Hydrant barely visible in The Woodlands

News article from CATW NEWS.

Safety or Camouflage?
May 30, 2007
Community Activists of The Woodlands (CATW) recently investigated a safety concern that most residents of The Woodlands share.
Using the Community Associations of The Woodlands Online Communication System, CATW asked why the fire hydrants in The Woodlands are green and not red.
An unidentified source from the Community Associations of The Woodlands advised “The hydrants have a white bonnet (the top). The white paint is a special reflective paint which makes it easier to see at night. We also provide a blue reflective marker in the street which helps with locating the hydrant. In addition, all our apparatus are equipped with books noting where each hydrant is located.”
CATW’s investigators found the hydrants are not reflective unless a light is shining straight at the bonnet. The investigators also noted multiple hydrants without a blue reflective marker in the street. The hydrants without the blue markers in the street were seen on Cochran’s Crossing Drive, New Trails Drive, Lake Woodlands Drive, Sylvan Forest Drive and several other residential streets.
Joe Merrill, Founder of CATW, says “While CATW appreciates the beauty of The Woodlands, we are more concerned with safety. Why should our firefighters have to search for small reflective bonnets, rely on blue reflective markers in the street that are not there, or flip through a book? If a residents home is on fire and lives are in danger, there is no time to waste” Merrill stated that he will personally contact the Community Associations of The Woodlands to ask that all the missing blue reflective markers are replaced.
Have questions? The Community Associations of The Woodlands can be contacted at 281-210-3800 or services@catw-tx.org. The Woodlands Fire Department can be contacted at wfd@catw-tx.org.

Update: CATW has been working closely with the WJPA and they have ensured that the Developer owned streetscape maintenance crew, Brickman, has been clearing the hydrants.

Conflict of Interest?

CATW recently requested the "Conflict of Interest" policy from The Woodlands Community Service Corporation. It appears that with this article we don't need to wait for a reply.

Pictured are Joel Deretchin, Developer employee and sits on several loacal boards including The Woodlands Association board, and Walter Cooke , Partner Orgain Bell & Tucker, L.L.P and sits on several local boards including the Woodlands Community Associations board.

Montgomery County Sheriff's Office

I was talking with a friend a while back and realized that CATW may need to write news and blogs to more than a few audiences.

Example: Blog Should our Leaders be in the same place at once? was intended to make certain people aware of their own wasteful spending and habits. While those "certain people" got the message I may have offended the wrong people in the process. Below are some additional random thoughts about the photo/meeting.

• Our underpaid deputies could use a small bonus instead of a free coke and handshake from Jeff Long and Joel Deretchin. A few bucks will go a long way for morale.
• There was an important joint board meeting the morning of the photo/meeting that some Directors did not attend. Those Directors are in the picture, but could not make it to a joint board meeting to discuss the future of The Woodlands? Self serving photo?
• How much did this meeting cost the residents of The Woodlands and who did it really benefit? One thing for sure is that it did not benefit the residents of The Woodlands.

CATW respects the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and all who serve.

Please note that CATW encourages all to post comments, email, call or snail mail us at any time. Posting comments anonymously on the CATW Blog is just that, anonymous. We have no way of telling who posted the comment.

With all due respect, I can't take back my comments about Lake Woodlands and Gosling. . . :-)

Bruce Tough Survey

Post removed out of respect for public official.

EXCESS?

Have you ever driven down Woodlands Parkway, or any street these days, and seen the patriotic flag banners on the light standards? If you live in The Woodlands, then I am sure you've seen them. While you are driving down any major street in The Woodlands it doesn't take long before the patriotic feeling to diminish and the banners just blend into the landscape. The excessive use of the banners has gotten to the point where I've heard people complain that the intersections are covered with them. In 2006 I inquired about some different banners in The Woodlands and was told by Ms. Lisa Morris, The Records Manager of The Community Associations of The Woodlands, that "The information you request is not subject to the Public Information Act of Texas;thus, is not subject to disclosure under the Act."

I remember seeing entergy trucks installing the banners in years past, but it appears to be a private company installing them now.

I have submitted a new request to get banner information and asked what the 'entire' banner project is costing the residents of The Woodlands.

It's important to note that CATW approves the banners, but does not think residents of The Woodlands should be paying for excess.

Final Answer? Parody

Community Activists of The Woodlands Founder, Joe Merrill, sent in below complaint to Mr. Norrell, General Manager of the Woodlands Community Service Corporation.

Community Activists of The Woodlands

May 21, 2007
In regards to: Official complaint regarding Mary Connell's actions at Joint Strategic Planning Workshop on 5/19/07
Don Norrell
Community Associations of The Woodlands
2201 Lake Woodlands Drive
The Woodlands, Texas 77380
281-210-3890
Dear Mr. Norrell:
When I entered the meeting room at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott for the public Joint Strategic Planning Workshop I noticed an abundance of printed informational material on the corner of a table where Ms. Connell was sitting. As a resident and member of the media, I approached Ms. Connell requesting a copy of the information. I was shocked at Ms. Connells behavior and need to bring it to your attention since this reflects poorly on The Board of Directors, the WCSC and The Woodlands. Ms. Connell refused to speak to me when I requested a copy of the printed material and glared at me in a threatening manner. Please take appropriate actions to prevent this from happening in the future. As far as this complaint goes, a written apology from Ms. Connell will resolve my complaint.
I request a response and apology from Ms. Connell by the end of business on 5/21/07.
Regards,
Joe Merrill
Community Activists of The Woodlands

Mr. Norrell replied and I am still waiting to make sure that his reply is his "Final Answer".

What do you think his original reply was?

A: Mr. Merrill, Sorry to hear that Ms. Connell was rude to you, a resident of The Woodlands that we proudly serve. Ms. Connell is currently on leave and I will speak with her when she returns.

B: Mr. Merrill, Ms. Connell was drinking water and couldn't speak. Must have been a misunderstanding. . . .

C: Mr. Merrill, Ms. Connell has a history of taking business related issues personally and she has been coached on how to handle situations like the one you described in the future. Ms. Connell is sorry for her behavior and looks forward to working with you, an 11 year resident of The Woodlands, in the future. Please feel free to contact myself or Ms. Connell in the future with any issues.

Update: Anser is B

Should our Leaders be in the same place at once?

This story makes me think of a few things.

• Why are all of our leaders in one place at the same time? According to the new sign at the association building, staff or residents have something to worry about.
• Were the residents of The Woodlands and surrounding communities made aware that all our law enforcement was on break? I would have taken advantage of the situation and drove 40MPH up and down Lake Woodlands and Gosling the entire time they were on break.
• Why was the meeting held at the association building and not the Marriott? Just last weekend the residents of The Woodlands spent an untold amount of money to hold a Board meeting in the Marriott. It appears from the picture that there would have been plenty enough space for our leaders to sit around at the association building and do whatever it was that they did.

Will The Woodlands Sue Community Activists of The Woodlands?

Will the residents of The Woodlands have to pay thousands of dollars in legal fees because the residents want a voice? Will the Executive Management Staff of the Woodlands Community Service Corporation (WCSC) & Board of directors of the WCSC approve such actions? Spending thousands of residents assessment dollars on legal fees to prevent the free flow of information is nothing new to The Woodlands.
If you don't want your assessment dollars wasted, then send an email to: meconnell@catw-tx.org & boards@catw-tx.org.

Please feel free to comment.
CATW HOME

Update: No Law Suits Yet