Manvel City Council tackled several major issues during its Sept. 8 meeting, covering everything from surveillance cameras to utility rates in a nearly four-hour session.

In a unanimous 6-0 vote, council ended the city's Flock Safety license plate reader program, citing privacy concerns, directing staff to remove funding and issue a 30-day termination notice.

Residents could see water and sewer bills rise roughly $5.50 per month under a new rate proposal advancing toward final approval.

Council also pushed new development to shoulder more infrastructure costs, approving maximum impact fees on first reading.

A previously rejected Highway 6 freestanding emergency center cleared its first reading after addressing earlier concerns around traffic and residential compatibility.

The FY 2026–27 budget is set for a final adoption vote on Sept. 21, while stronger dog-tethering rules also advanced unanimously.

Pearland City Council tackled taxes, transportation, and growth during a packed Sept. 14 meeting, advancing several major decisions ahead of final approval.

Council unanimously approved a first reading of a lower property tax rate — $0.627892 per $100 valuation — down slightly from the current rate, keeping the estimated median homestead tax bill essentially flat at $2,385.52.

However, water and sewer rates are still expected to rise 9.9%.

The FY 2026–27 balanced budget — adding firefighters and street funding — also passed first reading, along with a 5-year Capital Improvement Plan.

Council formally opposed three TxDOT SH 35 freeway projects moving forward without further study, citing concerns about impacts on Pearland's Old Town area.

Fire service agreements with two Brazoria County emergency districts were renewed while the city commissions a cost study.

Council also discussed early-stage plans for a regional conference center — no funding approved, but conversations are beginning with neighboring communities.

Hope of Texas, a faith-based nonprofit serving the Pearland area, is helping fill a critical gap for families of young adults with special needs once traditional school years end.

The organization offers a structured young adult program focused on building independence, confidence, and community connection through hands-on learning.

Activities include life skills, communication, fitness, pottery, music, cooking, gardening, equine experiences, and real-world internships — all designed to help participants grow and belong.

Beyond its young adult programming, Hope of Texas also supports military veterans and individuals in recovery through partnerships and special events.

The program runs primarily on Mondays and Thursdays at 2880 Broadway Bend Drive, Building 1, in Pearland, with a listed monthly cost of $225.

Families are encouraged to contact Hope of Texas directly at 281-203-1681 to confirm current schedules, availability, and enrollment details.

The Suga Truck is bringing a sweet new option to the Manvel, Rosharon, and Pearland area — and it's hard to miss the cream-colored trailer with "Gimme Some Suga" across the side.

The mobile dessert business specializes in personal-sized cakes in flavors like Strawberry, Loaded Oreo, Butter Pecan, Biscoff, and S'mores.

Tres leches fans can choose from Classic, Biscoff, or Vanilla Caramel, while water ice and ice cream round out the menu for a cool finish.

The truck currently sets up Thursday through Saturday, 5–9 p.m., at the Palm Express Gas Station on County Road 48 in Rosharon — a convenient stop for families across the growing 288 corridor.

The Suga Truck is also available for private and corporate events.

Schedules can shift, so follow @thesugatruck on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates before heading out.