Afton Oaks eNews - February 2012
- Crime Updates - Neighborhoods near Afton Oaks are reporting a higher level of crime, in particular in the Highland Village/West Lane Place area, as reported to you this week with several attempted burglaries. West Lane Place HOA reports that a man was followed home on Jan 19th at 8:30pm from the Chase Bank ATM at Weslayan/West Alabama and robbed at gunpoint in the driveway of his home on Mid Lane. The robber, reportedly a 20-30 year old black male dressed in all-black and with ample 'bling', fired a starter gun/blank at the victim, causing him to fall, and he took the man's wallet and cellphone. The man's wife chased the robber with a pan, and he fled south on Mid Lane in a white pick-up truck. In addition, on Essex Lane in Highland Village a number of daytime burglaries have occurred using the same methods previously reported this week: someone checks the front door, while they or another set of accomplices burglarize from the back, taking possessions in a smash-n-grab style. A Green Mitsubishi SUV (TX B72V190) may be involved in some of these crimes. Afton Oaks is not immune, with a similar burglary happening on Devon in this fashion in January. HPD did arrest a group allegedly responsible for many of these crimes in in the River Oaks/Inner Loop area in January, but there are clearly others at work using this method. If you are home during the day, please be aware and report both suspicious vehicles and suspicious noises -- these crimes are difficult to prevent (dogs, alarms and strong doors/locks are the best bet) and nearly impossible for police to crack after the fact. Please be vigilant, don't involve yourself in any dangerous situation and report activity promptly, especially 'solicitors' who may be checking out if homes are occupied.
- Replatting of Lots at Ingersoll/Lancashire Defeated - The Houston Planning Commission denied the replatting of several lots at the southwest corner of Ingersoll and Lancashire from single family residential to a single unrestricted lot. A strong showing by neighbors and the AOCC, along with the support of this position by Councilmember Oliver Pennington and the staff of the Houston Planning Commission helped win the day. In addition, the potential replatting of lots on the western end of Ivanhoe in the Greenwood section was pulled from the agenda after the applicant received indications that the replatting would likely be denied. Thanks to the many neighbors who gathered petitions and united to oppose these potential developments detrimental to our neighborhood.
- Quarterly Meeting Set for Thurs, Feb 16 at Central Market - Questions about the neighborhood, the AOCC or ideas for improvements? Come attend the quarterly meeting of the AOCC at Central Market's Community Room at 6:30pm on Thursday, February 16. It's easy to attend, and grab a few tasty treats before or after! Thanks to HEB for allowing us to use this room at no cost to the Club. The meeting notice and agenda are available by clicking the 'Download File Now' link to the lower left.
- Project W129 Bridge Update - The Harris County Flood Control District project to widen and improve the drainage ditch along the Union Pacific Railroad line is progressing, as you can see as you cross the tracks at Richmond, but has been slowed by recent rains. The contractor has not released the schedule for the San Felipe or Westheimer bridge replacements. To receive updates, visit the project's webpage at www.hcfcd.org/W129 or call (713) 684-4040.
- Trees - The annual Trees for Afton Oaks program returns this winter, with the AOCC taking nominations for the free installation of hardwood trees. The drought this past year took a huge toll on our trees in the neighborhood, and the hidden damage from the weakening of trees will emerge for the next several years. The time to replant is now. Please nominate potential locations, in either front or back yards. All you have to do is commit to water the tree during the transition period. To make a request or for more information, email trees@aftonoaks.org.
- Recycling Boost Sought - We have strong participation in the AOCC's recycling program, but would like to see usage expanded even further. If you have a blue bin, please begin and take advantage of the service on Thursday mornings. If you'd like a bin or want more information on the program, go to the website at www.aftonoaks.org or email garbage@aftonoaks.org.
- Newsletter and Web Sponsors Needed - If you know of someone who would like to advertise in support of Afton Oaks, send an email to communication@aftonoaks.org. We thank our many fine advertisers and sponsors below - please use their services (links to their websites are active):
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