What Does the WHCA Do? /
Someone once asked why they should belong to the WHCA? What did the organization do for them? I’ve been thinking about this for a long time. I care deeply about the neighborhood. Very clearly, the rest of the board feels the same way. Otherwise, why commit so much of our time to its upkeep?
Some of what WHCA does is very well known. We host special events, such as the bi-annual Home Tour, Lights in the Heights, and an annual July 4th kids event, which is coming up in July. The Constable Patrol is an obvious benefit to the neighborhood. However, much of what the WHCA does is not readily apparent. Today, I’d like to shed some light on something we do that benefits you but isn’t as visible.
Land Use & Deed Restrictions
WHCA provides oversight of the terms of “land use” in the neighborhood. This actually takes a considerable effort. Julie Moore is just now taking up the seat on the board dedicated to this task. She’s the new Director of Deed Restrictions. Even that title doesn’t really shed much insight into what’s involved.
There are various factors that impact land use, including deed restrictions, historic districts, and special minimum lot size restrictions. All are efforts made to protect the character of the neighborhood. A specific action may pertain to one property but is taken in the interest of the neighborhood as a whole.
The term “deed restriction” is a simplification. A single property may be subject to restrictions put in place by a prior owner. More typically, they are subject to terms crafted by a group of neighbors, applicable to a specific portion of the neighborhood.
Woodland Heights is actually the amalgamation of 50+ smaller neighborhoods. Some have deed restrictions. Others do not. The details are available on the land use page of our website. Since rejoining the board in 2024, I’ve been personally involved in several related actions. A couple of these are useful in highlighting how such matters go.
Deed Restrictions and Historic Districts
People generally bristle at the very notion of 'deed restrictions' or anything that might impact their ability to do as they please with their property. Why should we put up with such constraints in the land of the free? At the very same time, no one wants a liquor store, massage parlor, or vape shop as their newest neighbor.
WHCA has a role in making sure that where neighbors go to the effort of putting in place rules, they are both known and followed. This is one way that WHCA acts, in an often unseen manner, in the best interest of the neighborhood.
Not everything in this sphere is stopping people from doing things. Sometimes, we get to provide clarification that makes things possible. A couple of recent land use requests WHCA has reviewed and provided opinions to the COH Planning Commission on are as follows.
No Funny Business
In the summer of 2024, the WHCA was approached by someone seeking to operate a business from their home along Bayland Avenue in the Norhill Addition. Without getting into too much detail, the business they intended to start required a license from a federal agency. That agency contacted WHCA to verify the business would be allowed at that address.
The Norhill Addition deed restrictions clearly designate properties in the area that are for residential use only. The Director of Deed Restrictions advised the agency that running a business was expressly prohibited at that address. As such, the permit was not issued. The business did not come to pass, at least not operating from that address.
It’s worth noting that WHCA had no part in crafting the deed restrictions or their adoption. That was previous undertaken by neighbors who generated enough Norhill Addition support to establish deed restrictions for their area and file those restrictions with the state. WHCA has only an oversight role of ensuring those deed restrictions are upheld after the fact.
Historic District Example
The Woodland Heights Historic District was created in 2011. It protects a designated area comprised of homes built by the William A. Wilson Company between 1907 and 1935.
These are homes original to the founding of the neighborhood (our home is one of those homes.) In November 2024, the WHCA supported a neighborhood family in their effort to get a property on Morrison Street reclassified with respect to the historic district. The property in question was built well after 1935. Its manner of construction and the materials used were not consistent with the homes that rightly have historic district protections. Homes built after 1935 are not considered "contributing" to the historic district, so they are not subject to historic district protections.
Furthermore, the surrounding neighbors were unanimous in their support for reclassifying the home as "non-contributing." That would allow it to be taken down (or moved) and a new home built on the property. After review, and because the home was built outside the historic district's specified time frame, the WHCA issued a letter in support of the homeowner's petition to the Historical Commission. I appeared at a public session to give voice to that letter.
In this case, the homeowner prevailed. We're told they will eventually build a new home on the property. The new home is expected to be much more aligned with the character of the original Wilson homes that are its neighbors.
Exceptions Possible?
Someone asked if the WHCA board might consider making an exception for a particular idea. My impression is that we cannot. After neighbors go to the effort to see these terms agreed upon and enacted, who are we to set them aside? This is beyond the WHCA's authority and would be disrespectful to the neighbors who crafted their deed restrictions. WHCA’s obligation is to ensure they are upheld and defended when necessary.
Sidewalk Repairs /
Who’s Responsible for Sidewalks in Houston?
Recently we received an email from a neighbor regarding sidewalk repairs. As a neighborhood over 100 years old, we face sidewalks being in major disrepair or missing altogether. Well-maintained sidewalks improve safety for kids walking to school, enhance accessibility for residents with disabilities, and boost our neighborhood’s charm and property values.
When a sidewalk needs repair, the question of who is responsible for that repair inevitably arises. In Houston, the adjacent property owner is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining sidewalks, not the City (Code of Ordinances Article III, Sections 40-83 & 84) This applies to both residential and commercial properties and includes addressing issues like broken or missing sidewalk segments. It can be frustrating when homeowners can’t or won’t repair sidewalks, but there is some hope.
New Sidewalks - When Updates Are Required
A sidewalk must be installed or brought up to standard when
A new home is built.
A major addition or substantial improvement is made to an existing home.
If you observe new construction or significant renovations without installing a sidewalk, it may be out of compliance. Such instances can be reported to the City’s Permitting Enforcement Team via 311 online or through the 311 app. One way Woodland Heights can see improved sidewalks is by ensuring that these sidewalk ordinances are enforced, especially as the neighborhood continues to experience rapid redevelopment.
Other Options?
While the WHCA does not have the funds or resources to repair neighbors' sidewalks, we are exploring ways to help neighbors tackle sidewalk repairs. We've discovered the following information after speaking with contractors who are experienced with the permitting process.
Each repair must have its own permit
Concrete costs can be expensive, even for small jobs
While this may not sound promising, we will contact our Council Member to see if he can assist with other options. One idea we came up with was potentially pooling multiple resident requests to create a larger, more cost-effective project. We cannot guarantee that this is possible, but we will explore the idea with our Council Member and see if he has any thoughts.
In the meantime, if you know of a contractor who might do small jobs or if you have other ideas on how we can approach this as a community, we'd love to hear from you! Email us at infrastructure@woodland-heights.org.
Calling All Razorbacks! Hogg Alumni Assistance Requested! /
By Melanie Gehman
A call is going out to all Hogg Alumni to help with the planning and celebration of Hogg Middle Schools 100th Anniversary! The Hogg Centennial Planning Committee is looking for Alumni who would like to join in the planning for this celebration. They are also looking for any memorabilia, photos, and memories you may want to share to make the event one to remember.
If you would like to help please email Ms. Chance at mchance@houstonisd.org. Show your Razorback Pride and pitch in to help make the Centennial a wonderful one!
LITH - Call For Ornament Designs Open /
How would you like your design to be the official Lights in the Heights Logo for 2025 and on the annual Lights in the Heights ornament?
It’s that time of year again to invite our neighbors and friends to be a part of Lights in the Heights history by asking anyone who is interested to submit your design ideas to the Committee for a chance to be selected as this year’s Lights in the Heights ornament design and logo!
The 2025 LITH logo design will be on signs, posters, letters, T-shirts, and tree ornaments. Keeping with tradition, the artist’s name will be included on the underside of the ornament and mentioned on the card that comes with it.
Please email your submissions to LightsInTheHeights@gmail.com by July 1, 2025.
Last year’s ornament design winner was Hogg’s own running champion Karla Cisneros, whose affinity for the Travis dinosaur and Space City was her inspiration for the design. CONGRATULATIONS!!!
2026 Houston Home Tour Call for Home Entries /
The WHCA Home Tour is the neighborhood's biggest fundraiser, netting almost $44,000 in 2024, thanks to the many volunteers, local business sponsors, and enthusiastic tour-goers.
If you have a historic Woodland Heights Home you would like to be considered for the 2026 Home Tour, please contact Louise Moss at limoss@comcast.net or Megan Mastal at mmastal@insightspr.com. The Home Tour Committee will begin viewing potential homes in June. The goal is to showcase Woodland Heights' historic charm with homes of various sizes, architectural styles, and décor. All homes need to be original, but renovations and additions are welcome.
Early this fall, we will look for "a few good neighbors" to help on the committee with event planning and management. It's a fun way to meet more neighbors and support your community. If interested, please let Louise or Megan know if you'd like to be part of making it happen. All talents and interests are welcome.
Next spring, we'll expand the volunteer opportunities as more than 150 docents are needed for the home tour weekend - that call will go out in early 2026. Interested in sponsoring? Just let us know! Welcome spring!
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Fight Hunger /
Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry
Did you know that right around the corner on Beauchamp Street, many of your neighbors volunteer weekly to package and deliver food to needy families? The Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry (HIM) has been in operation since June 2009, and its volunteer crew has continued without interruption through hurricanes, floods, freezing weather, and even a global pandemic.
"Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry serves families across Houston from a small outpost in the Heights. The Pantry works to respectfully nourish our neighbors in need with food and resources to help improve their lives. Since the Pantry opened in 2009, we have relied on the support of our community to make this happen. We currently serve nearly 200 families weekly, and our volunteers and community donors are critically important to our mission," said Laurie Hardwick, Treasurer of Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry.
Serving Neighbors in Need
The Heights Interfaith Ministries Pantry provides clients a nutritious selection of food items, including non-perishable staples, eggs, fresh produce, basic toiletries, frozen meat, bread and sweets, and other items as available. In 2024, they served (2024 Annual Report.)
9,753 families, a 10% increase over 2023
19% of clients served were new to the Pantry
Distributed over 630,000 pounds of food
Over 335 volunteers provided 9,282 service hours
Served an average of 195 families weekly from across the Houston area
Provided close to 60 pounds of food to each client served
Six member churches (Christ the King Catholic Church, Church at 1548 Heights, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, St. Mark's United Methodist, The Vineyard of Houston, and Zion Lutheran Church) provide operational oversight and volunteer and financial support for the Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry. Second Servings Houston, Kroger, Panera, El Rancho, Starbucks, Apple Spice Catering, and The Kolache Shoppe provide additional partnerships and community support.
Interested in helping?
There are many ways you can become a part of neighbors helping neighbors fight hunger, including:
Volunteering - The Pantry needs over 40 volunteers every week to operate. No prior experience is needed.
Hold a food drive – Ongoing needs include meals in a can (chili, ravioli, hearty soups, etc.), canned beans,
pasta and sauce, vegetables, and peanut butter. Every donation helps!
Make a monetary donation - Your donations help us purchase staples weekly.
To learn more information or sign up, visit the HIM website at himfoodpantry.org
Yard of the Month - 719 Bayland /
Patricia Schaeper has lived in her Bayland Bungalow surrounded by gardens for the last 25 years. Originally from Canada, she was unable to bring any hand-me-down plants with her; however, she did bring her green thumb and Master Gardener Certification.
Her favorite plant stores, Another Place in Time (where she volunteers and the owner is a friend) and Treesearch Farms, have both helped her fill her flower beds with plants she likes. Native plants you'll find in her gardens include Greggi blue mist, wood ferns, and milkweed. Other plants include Peggy Martin roses, Salvias, Carnations of India, Pavonia, Shrimp plants, Camellias, Philadelphias, Cleome, Clivia, Firebush, Meyer lemons, Gardenias, Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow, and Mallow. For cold-weather plants, she likes tulips, daffodils, peonies, and hydrangeas.
The combination of plants she has in her garden provides an oasis for hummingbirds, woodpeckers, birds, and squirrels.
When asked about the amount of time she devotes to her yard and garden, she says,
"Probably an hour, sometimes more, but who's counting?"
Creature Feature: May 2025 /
Back in 2017, when I was first elected to the WHCA board, it was difficult to get contributions for the newsletter. So, I took it upon myself to create things. One of the things I started was the “Creature Feature.” It combined stories about animals in the neighborhood with a play on the cheesy TV series that ran old scary movies.
May has certainly been a month for creatures hereabouts. Our dog Julio is pretty recognizable. He and I get out to the various parks and pathways where we see all manner of things.
Walking around Woodland Park one day we encountered some kids having soccer practice. One of the kids kicked a ball high into a tree where it got stuck. We were able to use Julio’s long leash to help them shake the branch, recovering the ball.
Veering off into the wooded trails we saw a Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron guarding a nest. The official bird of Houston, they are often found nesting in the oaks along Bayland Avenue.
A few days later, Julio pulled me over to the corner of Bayland and Florence. He was drawn there by a new chicken coop that a neighbor had installed along their fence line. He found the young chickens extremely interesting.
Just this week we encountered a red-eared slider turtle attempting to cross White Oak Drive. This one was a good ten inches across. Since turtles and traffic don’t mix, we relocated the beasty to a leafy spot well off the road. Once recovered from the shock of being handled, he made his into the underbrush.
There are around 2000 homes in Woodland Heights, with lots of people and pets. But we also share the neighborhood with a great many wild things.Take a moment to look around you when you're out on a walk ... and if you spot interesting wildlife send us a photo or two. We'd love to feature them in this newsletter.
WHCA Constable Patrol Activity Report /
Working Diligently to Keep Woodland Heights Safe
April 1 - April 30, 2025 - Total Call: 418
By Beth Sorensen
Hi Woodland Heights neighbors,
Friendly reminder, please call the Constable Dispatch line at (713) 755-7628 to report any suspicious activity or incidents, even if they seem minor - like a wagon or package stolen, or cars being rummaged through.
Reporting helps the Deputies identify patterns and know if similar incidents are happening repeatedly in our area. Even small reports help paint a bigger picture.
Helping Our Youngest Neighbors
If you happened to see 145 first graders walking through the neighborhood on May 1st - no, it wasn’t a parade (though it may have looked like one)! It was the annual First Grade Walking Field Trip to Woodland Park. Travis Elementary and Friends of Woodland Park team up each year to teach students about the park’s hiking trails, butterfly garden, and the local critters that call it home.
Deputy Lemons once again showed his dedication to our community by helping ensure all those excited first graders made it to the park and back safely. He blocked traffic on Houston Avenue so the kids and their chaperones could cross without worry - a small act that made a big difference. Deputy Lemons never hesitates to say yes when asked to assist with school events like this. His consistent presence is a valued part of what makes our neighborhood feel safe and supported.
One parent who attended the trip shared this:
"I had the pleasure of chaperoning the Woodland Park field trip with my first grader, and it was such a fun day. A special thank you to Deputy Lemons who escorted us. His kindness, professionalism, and attentive presence made the trip feel both safe and welcoming for everyone involved."
We’re grateful to have such committed patrol support in Woodland Heights — thank you, Deputy Lemons! And thank you to all our neighbors who contribute to the Constable Program, because of you, we are able to have this increased safety presence.
We'd Like to Hear From You!
Have you had a positive experience with our Constable that made a difference in your life or the safety of our community? We want to hear about it! Whether it was help during an emergency, assistance with a concern, or simply their presence making you feel secure, your stories matter.
Please share your story with us by emailing security@woodland-heights.org. Your experiences help highlight the Constable's important role in keeping Woodland Heights safe and thriving.
Thank you for taking the time to share your gratitude and support!
WHCA April 2025 Financial Statement /
Welcome to the New WHCA Board Members! /
WHCA Board Elections - Results Are In
The results of the 2025 WHCA Board Elections are in. We thank all the candidates who stepped forward to run for office. Your willingness to serve out neighborhood is what makes Woodland Heights the hometown near downtown that it is.
Here are your new Woodland Height Civic Association Board Members:
Sara Smithey
Secretary
June 2025 - May 2027
Dallas Jagneaux Boyle
Director of Membership
June 2025 - May 2027
Julie Moore
Director of Deed Restrictions
June 2025 - May 2027
Doug Carroll
Treasurer
June 2025 - May 2027
Brian Edmundson
Director of Infrastructure
June 2025 - May 2027
Congratulations to all the new and returning WHCA Board Members we appreciate each one of you.
WHCA Board Elections on May 13, 2025: Meet the Candidates /
WHCA Board Member Elections will take place this next week. We hope to see you all there casting your vote for the open positions. Per the WHCA bylaws only registered members are eligible to vote and only one vote perhousehold is allowed.
Tuesday, May 13th at 7:00 p.m.
Zion Lutheran Church
3606 Beauchamp St.
Houston, TX 77009
If you are unable to attend the meeting you can designate an individual to cast your proxy vote. To cast a proxy vote please download a Proxy Form from the WHCA website. Complete and sign the form and email it to the WHCA Secretary at secretary@woodland-heights.org by Monday, May 12. You can also have your Proxy Designee bring your completed form with them when they come to the Members Meeting.
Meet the Candidates
The following neighbors have stepped up to run for a position on the WHCA board. They will be at the meeting on Tuesday. This is a brief synopsis of who they are and why they would like to serve on the board.
Nominees for Secretary
Sara Smithey
I live in Woodland Heights with my family. I have two young boys who attend the local elementary school, and through my involvement with the PTA, I’ve come to truly appreciate the value of investing in our community.
The more engaged I’ve become, the more I’ve seen how a strong, connected neighborhood contributes to the overall safety and happiness of living in this area. I am interested in the secretary position, due to my strengths in organization and streamlining communication.
I would love the opportunity to build upon the current processes where needed. I have much respect for those who’ve contributed to making Woodland Heights such a special place, and I’d love to have a more active role in supporting and strengthening our community.
Angela Sanz
Woodland Heights is more than a neighborhood, it is incredible community in the heart of Houston.
Over the past 5 years as a Woodland Heights homeowner, I have followed everything the WHCA does to keep our neighborhood safe and organized and have admired the flawless execution of events like Lights in the Heights and the Tour of Homes.
I am at a point in my life where I have the bandwidth to get involved and give back to our community and I believe I can make an impactful contribution to the WHCA board.
As a Secretary my primary goals would be to drive and facilitate the achievement of the WHCA's strategic objectives, provide tools to boost board effectiveness, and foster relationships with members by upholding transparency in reporting and communication
Director of Deed Restrictions
Danielle Garcia
I am running for a position on the WHCA Board because I believe that you should be an active member of your community. I have served and continue to serve on the board of various organizations that care for first responder families, the Hispanic Community, my church and so on.
My family recently moved into the neighborhood and instantly fell in love with its old charm and small-town feel. Woodland Heights is such a special community, and I want to be sure I do my part to keep it that way.
My hope is that you will provide me with the opportunity to use my time and abilities in a meaningful way as the Deed Restrictions Board Member for 2025-2026.
Julie Moore
I have loved this neighborhood for over 10 years and have lived her now for 1 year. Now that I live here, I would love the opportunity to help keep it beautiful and charming.
I have years of experience dealing with contractors and permitting. An interest in keeping the neighborhood charming, beautiful and sought after.
I am interested in furthering the WHCA position and direction for the betterment of our community and would love the chance to be directly involved in our neighborhood.
We are in our forever home and have 3 young children who we hope to keep this neighborhood wonderful for! We are also at Travis Elementary where I am in the PTA for neighborhood and family involvement.
Director of Membership
Karen Stowers
Having lived in the Woodland Heights since 2007 on Highland Street I have loved being a part of the neighborhood.
With so many new residents moving to our neighborhood, I would like to be a part of welcoming them and be a point person for membership for our Civic Association.
Dallas
Jagneaux Boyle
I fell in love with Woodland Heights when I was a kid and my dad bought and restored a historic home on Bayland. We participated in Lights in the Heights and I knew I wanted to return to the neighborhood as an adult, own my own home here, and get involved in the events.
As a younger homeowner and new parent, I think that I can help to reach the younger demographic in the neighborhood and get them involved sooner. I’m a naturally social person and have held several leadership positions in college and in law school that are centered around membership and bringing folks together to participate.
Finally, as a lawyer, written communication and organization of complex to-do’s are a strength of mine.
Director of Infrastructure
Brian Edmondson
(Incumbent Returning)
Brian brings experience as a professional civil engineer working with and for those governmental entities that serve the Woodland Heights community.
He has been a member of the Woodland Heights community for 10 years and has served as the Director of Infrastructure since 2023. He looks forward to fostering continued investment in our community with appropriate regard to community values.
Treasurer
Doug Carroll
(Incumbent Returning)
Doug moved to the Woodland Heights in 2018 and has been the treasurer since 2019.
He is a wealth advisor with Mariner Wealth Advisors in Houston and works with local families on investment management, retirement planning, and tax planning.
As the WHCA treasurer, he manages annual IRS reporting, insurance policies, collection of revenue, andpayments for all the organization's expenses.
Following the meeting we will have some time to meet the new board members, thank all the outgoing board members for their service, and socialize. We'll bring some snacks and beverages for everyone to enjoy.
We look forward to seeing you next Tuesday and thank you in advance for participating and voting for the new board members!
FWP - Volunteers Needed Happy Turtle, Trails, & Hot Dogs /
By Estella Espinosa
Happy Trails and Hot Dogs is an annual community picnic and historic Woodland Park. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Set up begins at 9 a.m. take down goes from 1-2 p.m. Details about the shifts are described below. Sign up for a shift or two at Volunteer Houston.
Hot dogs, ice cream floats and lemonade are provided to all volunteers.
Set Up - put up pop-up tents, move tables and chairs from inside the building outside, set up tables and chairs, unpack vehicles, other tasks as needed
Cook hot dogs - help with manning the grills cooking the hot dogs, help with serving food, make sure food service area is always clean, other tasks as needed
Root beer floats - help with assembling root beer floats and serving them, make sure root beer float tent is always clean, other tasks as needed
Merch tent - help set up merchandise, keep the area tidy and merchandise orderly, help guests with questions about merchandise for sale and how to purchase it using a QR code, other tasks as needed
Tear down - bring all tables and chairs back to building, collapse tents, load vehicles for off site storage, collect trash bags, other tasks as needed
Recap: Super Neighborhood 15 Council Meeting, April 15, 2025 /
Since rejoining the WHCA board last summer, I’ve only been to a couple of SN15 meetings. I was particularly interested in the meeting scheduled for April 15th since the agenda held a couple of promising items. What follows is a recap of what happened, and perhaps just a significantly…what didn’t happen.
The Greater Heights Management District
The planned agenda included a presentation by the small group of neighbors who were working on the idea of a Greater Heights Management District. I was very interested in then project. Back in January, I’d seen an early presentation given to the Montie Beach Civic Club. This is what inspired me to present some background information to the WHCA member’s meeting in March.
Not much was known about the project, which was at it’s core a very small group. I saw significant merit in the idea. I appreciated that it needed to be more fully fleshed out, so that something more clearly defined could be presented to a larger audience. In fact, I had hoped to be allowed to help in the effort.
Alas, the lack of good information caused the online rumor mill to work overtime. In particular, there are a few threads on Next Door where people, with no knowledge of the matter, vented about imagined harms.
Faced with such criticism before they even broke cover, the organizing group decided to disband the project. So, there was no presentation. I for one am disappointed. It was good idea. There was an opportunity to be engaged in shaping the effort to address the needs of the neighborhood.
I appreciate that there are a diverse range of opinions hereabouts. But it’s just not smart, civil, or kind, to reach for the pitchforks before you have a concrete idea about the project details. This is why we can’t have nice things.
The 11th Street Safety Project
The state of 11th Street was the other item on the agenda. There is some concern that Mayor Whitmire may intend to reverse the improvements that were implemented in 2021. Since becoming mayor he’s had several similar projects changed or reversed, most recently Austin Street in midtown, which was done without any notice or opportunity for public comment.
Kevin Strickland, chair of SN15, had prepared a letter to the mayor and city council. This letter expresses support for the project and the new state of 11th Street, with the bike lanes. He invited Chris Parma from Walk & Roll Houston to present an overview of the project, from inception to post-installation analysis.
This was followed by some questions from, and discussion amongst, the council members. It was noted that a couple of civic associations were working on their own letters. I note WHCA has supported the project from it’s inception. In fact, you can still find a video of one of the public meetings on our web site. It was actually our March 2019 Members Meeting.
Next came Q & A from the audience. Emmanuel Nunez, organizer of I Love 11th Street, rose to offer support for the project. He noted that a reinvigorated community along 11th street was the basis for the festival he has organized for the past two years.
With strongly held views on both sides of the matter present, the Q & A was quite animated. Some questioned the details of the study methodologies used to evaluate the project. Others voiced concern for traffic on neighboring streets. Numerous voices were heard.
The agenda item concluded with the super-neighborhood council voting to send the letter.
Other Items
Staff from CM Castillo’s and CM Kamin’s offices made short presentations. They noted a listening session about 11th Street planned for 10am Saturday, April 26th at the Vineyard Church. RSVP is recommended.
- Michael Graves, President, WHCA
Historic Woodland Heights /
By Estella Espinosa
Recently, as we were considering sites to relocate the Woodland Heights Historical Marker in Travis Elementary's playground area, we received an email from a neighbor, offering the site in front of his home as a potential site. While the marker had already been relocated by then, we appreciated his offer as his home was the site of one corner of what used to be the entrance gate to Woodland Heights. At the same time, his suggestion sparked the idea of a continuing storyline about the history of the Woodland Heights neighborhood. To start that line off, we'll begin with the gates, which used to be the entrance to the neighborhood.
First, a little background, in 1907, the William A. Wilson Realty Company created a new "streetcar suburb" in Houston called Woodland Heights. They offered 600 lots for sale, ranging in price from $300 to $750, complete with many amenities, including piped water, sewers, graded streets and sidewalks, and green space planted with shrubs, oaks, and sycamores.
Mr. Wilson added entry gate piers at the Houston Avenue and Bayland intersection, right where the Houston Electric Company's streetcar terminated before returning to downtown. The gates framed the entrance to Woodland Heights on what was then and is today one of the subdivision's premier streets.
The neighborhood began to fall into disarray in the sixties, and the original deed restrictions lapsed during this time. However, in 1988, legislators passed a state law that allowed homeowners to reactivate lapsed deed restrictions and determined neighbors took advantage of this opportunity to reactivate their lapsed deed restrictions (which include things like Minimum Building Line (MBL) ordinances, which regulate front setback, and lot size ordinances In 2011, the Woodland Heights Historic District was approved by the City of Houston, its footprint is slightly different from the Woodland Heights neighborhood boundaries.
Over one hundred years later, while the entrance gates have long gone, many of the original Wilson homes, some now over 100 years old, offer their spacious porches, proximity to downtown, and abundant green spaces that made this "streetcar suburb" attractive to the first residents are still offering up the charm to today's residents who chose to live in Woodland Heights this 'small town near downtown since 1907' that so many chose to live in.
For preservationists, architectural enthusiasts, and homeowners who enjoy these old homes, this is an added bonus to living in the Woodland Heights.
2026 Houston Home Tour Call for Home Entries /
By Megan Mastal
The WHCA Home Tour is the neighborhood's biggest fundraiser, netting almost $44,000 in 2024, thanks to the many volunteers, local business sponsors, and enthusiastic tour-goers.
If you have a historic Woodland Heights Home you would like to be considered for the 2026 Home Tour, please contact Louise Moss at limoss@comcast.net or Megan Mastal at mmastal@insightspr.com. The Home Tour Committee will begin viewing potential homes in June. The goal is to showcase Woodland Heights' historic charm with homes of various sizes, architectural styles, and décor. All homes need to be original, but renovations and additions are welcome.
Early this fall, we will look for "a few good neighbors" to help on the committee with event planning and management. It's a fun way to meet more neighbors and support your community. If interested, please let Louise or Megan know if you'd like to be part of making it happen. All talents and interests are welcome.
Next spring, we'll expand the volunteer opportunities as more than 150 docents are needed for the home tour weekend—that call will go out in early 2026. Interested in sponsoring? Just let us know! Welcome spring!
Yard of the Month - 915 Omar /
Kristen Bannister and Gareth Jones
Kirsten Taylor, Gareth Jones, and their son Arran have lived at 915 Omar for 14 years.
“When the house was built in 2010, we had St. Augustine grass edge to edge. We ripped much of it out and have been experimenting with a wide variety of plants and trees ever since…”
Today, their garden includes many native plants, including Eastern Purple Coneflower, multiple varieties of Black-eye Susans, Autumn Sage, Fall Aster, Esperanza, Bluebonnet, Rockrose, Coreopsis, Indian Blanket, Mealy Sage, and Milkweeds.
“Wildflowers are my favorite plant – they show up throughout the year on their own schedule and location and pleasantly surprise us with incredible colors…bluebonnets, blanket flowers, salvias. My new discovery plant is the almond verbena – it smells magical, loves full sun, and brings in a huge crowd of bees.”
Kristen continues, “I love being outside. I’m a geologist, but I have an office job…so maybe that’s how I discovered gardening. My favorite part of gardening is seeing new plants pop up. My least favorite part of gardening is seeing the damage from a hard freeze and waiting for signs of life to signal that all will be okay again. I have some poppies that came from my grandmother. My mom sends me seeds every year, and I believe many of those came from her mom – calendula, poppies, phlox of sheep, sunflowers.”
While they both have a few favorite spots in their garden, they especially like the small flagstone patio in the backyard with its bubble fountain surrounded by different plants and the surprising results of their front garden.
As with many gardeners in our neighborhood, Kristen enjoys having Buchanan’s and Joshua’s close by. But her gardening inspiration comes from “all of you who put time and energy into your yards—so many of my plant choices came from visually exploring the gardens of this neighborhood. Some of you have even brought me extra plants or seeds from your yard, and I enjoy hoping I can make you smile by watching your plants grow in my yard.
“It’s how I wind down after a long work week – I can easily spend 3-4 hours at a time and not even realize it. I’ve learned through making many mistakes – and forgiving plants – and friends and family offering advice (and praise) and even sharing plants with me. My grandmother was a prolific gardener. She could grow anything and had a bright green thumb – perhaps she shared a bit of her talent with me.”
Another advantage of native plants in such a beautiful garden, “We are frequently visited by monarchs, Gulf fritillaries, and black swallowtails. We have lots of bees and ladybugs. Birds frequent the water fountain in the backyard, and in winter, we put out suet seed rolls for them.”
And in terms of Houston’s extreme weather and gardening, “Generally, most of what you’ll find seems to survive, even if above ground completely dies back. For things that survive with minimum maintenance, I’d suggest any of the plants you’ll find in the front by the street.”
As for being recognized as April's Yard of the Month, Kristen says, “This neighborhood is brimming with outstanding gardeners. It feels amazing to be recognized – thank you!”
Lemonade Day Houston - May 17th /
Every little thing you do sends ripples through the universe … sometimes the ripples are good and continue beyond your imagination. One such ripple for me started in 2007, in a previous life when I worked for the Houston Parks & Recreation Department. A colleague of mine and I were asked to meet with Michael Holthouse with Prepared 4 Life. He had an idea for a program to empower youth through lemonade stands that he wanted to begin with the parks department’s support. The idea was to recruit young people to set up little “businesses” to sell lemonade. Prepared4Life would provide all the materials and instructions to help these young entrepreneurs learn how to own and run their own business, a lemonade stand. I
n that first year, there were about 2,700 young people setting up their lemonade stand businesses across Houston. Today, the program continues and has grown to over 55,000 young people in Houston alone. The program is now running in 2 countries with over 1.5 plus million young people learning how to own and run their own business. Along the way, they learn how to become future business leaders, volunteers, social advocates, and volunteers for the world they will one day be in charge of.
Lemonade Day will be on May 17th this year, and your child, with your help, can participate. All young people who register receive free materials to teach them the lessons of Lemonade Day (like creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors, and giving back to the community.) What they learn from the experience is something they can use throughout their life, including goal-setting, problem-solving, and gaining self-esteem critical for future success. Plus, they get to keep the money (though they are encouraged to spend some, save some, and share some as well).
If you and your child are interested in participating in Lemonade Day, you can find out more information and register by visiting https://local.lemonadeday.org/houston. If your child decides to set up a lemonade stand, let us know. We’ll be sure to let the neighborhood know where their stand is so everyone can drop by to help support them.
In that first year, there were about 2,700 young people setting up their lemonade stand businesses across Houston. Today, the program continues and has grown to over 55,000 young people in Houston alone. The program is now running in 2 countries with over 1.5 plus million young people learning how to own and run their own business. Along the way, they learn how to become future business leaders, volunteers, social advocates, and volunteers for the world they will one day be in charge of.
Lemonade Day will be on May 17th this year, and your child, with your help, can participate. All young people who register receive free materials to teach them the lessons of Lemonade Day (like creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors, and giving back to the community.) What they learn from the experience is something they can use throughout their life, including goal-setting, problem-solving, and gaining self-esteem critical for future success. Plus, they get to keep the money (though they are encouraged to spend some, save some, and share some as well).
If you and your child are interested in participating in Lemonade Day, you can find out more information and register by visiting https://local.lemonadeday.org/houston. If your child decides to set up a lemonade stand, let us know. We’ll be sure to let the neighborhood know where their stand is so everyone can drop by to help support them.
Highland Street Truck Thieves Caught Thanks to AirTag and Constable Patrol /
Reader’s Story Contribution By Anne Galbraith
We've been collecting stories about how the WHCA Constable Patrol impacts the neighborhood. Here is one from a neighbor on Highland, who, after multiple stolen trucks on that street, followed her neighbor's lead, signed up for the Constable Patrol, and invested in an AirTag as well.
"YEAH, SO THE F150 GOT STOLEN. Second truck now. They got in via an iPad, and an app that runs code until it hits your truck, then pulled that wire on the last photo, and recoded the ignition so they could drive it. My key no longer worked. I tracked this one with the AirTag I had hidden in the truck. I gave the constables the location; they were parked there waiting for us. The thieves parked it before the next crew of a**holes picked it up. It looks like kill switches are about to be installed in both trucks," - Anne Gallbraith.
One other suggestion from Anne is, "Report street lights that are dead. The one outside of our house has been dark for months. EVERYONE should check their poles with street lights to ensure they are lit. Get the pole number that is tagged onto the pole and report the outage via a call to CenterPoint or by using their online portal at https://www.centerpointenergy.com/en-us/pages/changeservicearea.aspx?requesturl=/en-us/residential/services/electric-utility/outage-center/street-light-outages."
And the WHCA Constable provided follow up after the incident, stopping by to personally meet with Anne regarding the incident and how to be pro-active about safety,
“We discussed different ways to keep the neighborhood aware of criminal activity in order to protect ourselves and others. He was very motivated and responsive!”