If you're an  apartment manager who would like to get your property involved in the YMCA Water Wise Program visit the HAA Pool Safety Programs website for more information.

The following Individuals and Properties have been nominated to recieve recognition at our 2013 Honors Awards. 

Want to find out who the winners will be?  Join us for the awards presentation. Awards will be presented on Thursday June 13 at the Bayou City Events Center, 9401 Knight Road.  Please contact the meetings department to register; meetings@haaonline.org or click here.
Good Luck to all the nominees!

Nearly 250 participants competed against other Maintenance Professionals in a series of skill-based competitions that challenged them to exhibit talents used on the job every day. 

We had a great turn out and saw some excellent maintenance skills! Congratulations go out to our 2013 winners:  

National Championship Qualifiers: 

1st Place- Carlos Trevino, Post Properties

2nd Place- Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty Inc.

3rd Place- Scott Heffernan, Post Properties     

Faucet Category:  

1st Place- Carlos Trevino, Post Properties

Blinds Category:  

1st Place- Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty Inc.

Toilet Category:  

1st Place- Josh Herrera,Gables Residential

Icemaker Category:  

1st Place- Eli De La Hoya,

Fire-CO Safety Category:   

1st Place- Carlos Trevino, Post Properties

Key Control Category:  

1st Place- Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty Inc.

Lamp and Ballast Category:  

1st Place-  Scott Heffernan, Post Properties 

Race Car Category: 

 1st Place- Carlos Trevino, Post Properties

Listed below are the TOP TEN with their overall times: here's hoping we'll place first in our Region and have the chance to send someone to the Nationals Competition held in conjunction with NAA's conference in San Diego in June.

 
Jose Alvarado, CAMT, Rockstar Capital Management LLC wins the Texas Apartment Association Maintenance Professional of the Year award! Congratulations Jose!    

Jose will be recognized at the upcoming Texas Apartment Association Education Conference and Expo here in Houston, April 25-27.  Follow this link for information and to register.
  

Congratulations are also in order for our other nominees to TAA's awards program this year: 

Brittany McDowell, NALP  

Business Manager  

Lincoln Property Company  

The Fountains at Memorial City Apts  

Nominees for all categories, except Olin Steele Supplier of the Year, are selected from the past year's HAA Honors award winners. Product Service Council officers select Olin Steele Supplier of the Year nominees.  You can nominate your team members or property for the HAA Honors awards, just click here.
  

The Honors will recognize 13 of the multifamily industry's top professionals and 16 outstanding properties as well as recent NAA designates.

Nomination Guidelines:

To nominate a property, a company must have owned or operated the property since at least July 1, 2012.

Get your nomination in by April 1 for a chance to win $100 gift card! Nomination must be completed online, with all the criteria complete.

For more information or to submit a nomination visit our webpage. 

All proceeds from your donated keys benefits the Greater Houston Chapter of the American Red Cross.  

Take part in our "Keycycling" drive and help us give back to those who need it the most.  

For more information or for drop off locations e-mail Erin McCary at Keycycling@valetwaste.com 

We well hold a drawing for a "Big Green Egg" at the Sports Challenge May 10 for the person or property that donates the most keys thanks to our generous sponsor, Ferguson Enterprises.  A picture of the Big Green Egg

The Houston Apartment Association provides services and volunteers for apartment-related community service projects. The Community Outreach Committee  members act on behalf of HAA to promote industry support for the projects, partnerships and programs undertaken as community outreach efforts. Any HAA member is welcome to participate in these efforts.  If you are interested in participating in community service activities or projects, please contact Susan Hinkley at 713-595-0313 or shinkley@haaonline.org or Aimee Arrington at 713-595-0302 or aarrington@haaonline.org        

Murphy's resolution recognized the TAA for providing housing for more than 4.6 million Texans, representing property with a market value of more than $150 billion, and employing an estimated 70,000 full-time employees.

 
To watch the video of Representative Murphy presenting the resolution to TAA click here.

TAA is a non-profit statewide trade association dedicated to unifying rental housing professionals through education, legislative advocacy and member services. For 50 years now the TAA has advocated fair legislation, promoted professionalism within the industry and represented all aspects of the apartment industry.

 
Congratulations TAA in reaching this significant milestone. We look forward to many more years of service.

For more information on TAA visit their website.

The HAA Better Government Fund is the political action committee for the Houston Apartment Association.  The funds raised by the group go to support candidates for elected office and propositions favorable to the industry's interests.  HAA membership dues never go to fund any political contributions.  For more information on how to join or support the PAC visit the HAABGF page.  

Congratulations go out to our TopGolf winners:

1st Place Team: Craven Carpet

2nd Place Team: Apartments.com/Commercial Tax Network

3rd Place Team: American Fire Systems

It was a beautiful day and a fun event! Thanks to everyone for coming out to support the HAABGF and making our event a success.

Planning for this event and our fall Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament is done at the direction of our Golf Committee. A special thanks goes out to all of our committee members for their dedication and hard work!

Golf Committee members include:

Marie Bell

Roger Camp

Jack Dinerstein

Billy Griffin

Larry Hill

Stacy Hunt

Dick LaMarche

Cesar Lima

Rick Luke

Kim Small

Kirk Tate 

HJ Tollett

• If at all possible, pay your rent in person during business hours and obtain a receipt. 
• Pay rent online, if your community offers that option. 
• If you must drop your rent check off after hours, wait as long as you can to do so (i.e. wait until the morning, instead of dropping it in overnight - to reduce the amount of time that your check is sitting in the drop box).  Also, remember that you do so at your own risk. 
• Use a check, instead of a money order (or use a money order issued DIRECTLY BY A BANK), as a bank may be more likely to prosecute fraud. 

Per, the Harris County Sheriff's Office:  If a check or bank issued money order is stolen out of the nightdrop and forged, the resident can go to the bank and get a copy of the negotiated item in minutes. The account holder will sign a Forgery Affidavit, and the bank can then send the check back to the 'accepting merchant' as a Collection Item; (a normal and accepted Bank practice).  This results in the account holder getting his/her money back and the apartment community getting their rent.  

Remember that drop boxes are provided at some properties as a courtesy, but should be used at your own risk.  The best ways to pay rent are still in person during business hours (when a receipt may be obtained from an on-site employee), or online. 

  We recommend the following tips to MANAGERS: 

• Alert residents to potential risks of using money orders and drop boxes. 
• Install a piece of metal inside your drop box to make the opening as narrow as possible (making it more difficult to "fish" out items). 
• Utilize a drum style drop box (like US Postal Service mail boxes).  
• Post a notice in your leasing office window that states "All monies are taken to the bank nightly." Also, check out these tips from Harris County Sheriff's Office Financial Crimes Unit.  

Help us pass along the information to other community residents and practice some of these tips to help prevent this situation from happening to you. If you see or suspect possible foul play do not hesitate to contact your local law enforcement.

In 2012, 90 properties were nominated resulting in 40 finalists and 17 winners. The Honors will recognize exceptional HAA member properties in the following categories:

• Two awards for New Development (2011-2012) - Garden-Style and Mid/High Rise.
• Four awards for 150 units or less: Built before 1980, 1980-1989, 1990-1999, 2000-2010.
• Four awards for 151 to 300 units: Built before 1980, 1980-1989, 1990-1999, 2000-2010.
• Four awards for 301 units or more: Built before 1980, 1980-1989, 1990-1999, 2000-2010.
• Two awards for Green Community of the Year: Conventional and Affordable.

Submissions will be judged on specific criteria. Please provide detailed information about:

• Resident Service (interior/exterior structure, maintenance, appropriate to locale, overall customer service)
• Physical Appearance/Appeal (both interior and exterior, models, office/common areas)
• Community Service (community revitalization, involvement, environmental awareness)
• Operating Performance (net effective rents, occupancy rate/retention, controllable expenses, and year-over-year results vs. comparables in submarket)
• Unique Features/Amenities/Services that make the property stand out.

Now is the time to shine! Nominations, accepted online only, can be submitted at www.haaonline.org/honors/honorsform.aspx. The deadline for property award nominations is Friday, March 22 so hurry and get your nominations in. 

Please note: Previous Honors award winners are not eligible for consideration again for the same property for three years.

Do you know an industry superstar? Nomination forms for individual awards are also available on the HAA website.

This handy tool is the Apartment Community Estimator, or A.C.E for short. This easy to use calculator breaks down data by each state with only a few clicks of your mouse.Simply specify whether you are inquiring about a new development or an existing community, how many apartment homes and in which state. Then hit "calculate" and with those four easy steps you will access all the information about the economic impact in that state.

The new website also has an interactive map and a break down of the apartment industry's local impact in 12 major metropolitan areas. Information from the websites comes in easy to read charts which are also available in printer friendly versions.

To use the A.C.E feature or find out more information about the industry's contribution visit www.weareapartments.org. 

Workplace safety is something we should all be concerned with. When going to work you should feel confident you are entering a safe environment. Working in an apartment community may at times not give you that sense of security since you may not know the residents living in the community, or you come in contact with potential residents on a daily basis that you don't know very well.

To help protect yourself and your employees here are a few tips on how to maintain a safe workplace.

• Always report violence or threats to local law enforcement. If it's not an incident that requires emergency response call a non-emergency number to create a record of the incident.
• Develop safe words to alert coworkers of potential problems.
• Adopt a zero-tolerance policy with problem residents to help head off problems before they become serious.
• Identify visitors. Place a visible sign saying "For the protection of our residents and staff, please leave your drivers license with us here while we show you our apartments." Lock the license in a drawer and return it to them once you have returned.
• When leaving to show an apartment tell a coworker, or leave a written note in the office of where you are going, what time and with whom. Another option if no one is around at is to call your answering service and leave the information on there as a voice mail. 
• Take along a walkie-talkie and check in with a coworker every 30 minutes. Be sure they work effectively from all areas of the apartment community.
• If a prospect wants to see another apartment and you have left no record of it back at the office, do not show it until you have let someone know of the new destination.
• Leave the front door wide open when showing and apartment and if possible always try to stay between the door and the individual.
• Develop hand signals with coworkers to silently communicate from a distance that you are in need of help.
• Carry a small can of pepper spray or mace or learn to use the keys in your hand as a weapon. Carrying a whistle or small air-siren can also be an effective tool. 
• Keep all doors and windows to vacant apartments closed and latched.
• If you suspect a person might be dangerous do not show them an apartment by yourself. Wait until there is someone who can accompany you.
• Get to know your local law enforcement and cooperate with them in any investigation on or near your location. Establishing these types of relationships will help you if you are ever in need of assistance.  
• Always have a plan of action in place. Let staff know what they should do, who they should call or where they to meet in case some type of incident occurs.  

While there is no guaranteed tactics to eliminate violence in the workplace, taking some of these steps could help prevent an incident from occurring and may also give your employees a little peace of mind. Your safety and the safety of those around you should always be your number one concern. Put a plan in place and stay safe! 

For more information and great tips on how to make your workplace a safer environment read this article from the TAA.
 

"Despite the worst economy in a generation, apartment construction and operations contributed $4.5 billion to the metro Houston economy supporting 38,000 local jobs in 2011, according to a new report released today by the National Multi Housing Council (NMHC) and the National Apartment Association (NAA). In addition, apartments and their residents contributed $93 billion to Texas’ economy supporting 2.2 million jobs. The report, along with an interactive map and economic impact calculator, is available on the new website www.WeAreApartments.org."  

Nationally, more than one trillion dollars of economic impact can be attributed to multifamily rental housing (defined as 5 units or more). In addition, we feel the online calculator for determining economic impact will be an important tool for property developers and managers in demonstrating the value of apartments to local communities.

Today, our PR consultants (Magnolia Sky Communications) are proactively pitching this story to local media, as NAA/NMHC pitch to national media.  President Mack Armstrong is prepared to speak on behalf of our local industry. 
 

Please let us know if you have any questions by contacting the Public Affairs Department. We urge you to share this information and the www.weareapartments.org 

site with your staff and colleagues.

Orkin Pest Control released their annual report of top 50 bed bug cities. Based on the number of treatments Orkin performed for 2012 the city of Houston has landed as number 18 on their chart.

Experts believe the lack of knowledge about bed bugs is one of the contributing factors to the increase in infestation. Educating yourself and staying informed about any recent infestations in your area is the first step in prevention and control.

 Here are some tips on how to prevent bed bugs and a few suggestions on what to do if you find them in your home.

• Know how to identify a bedbug. Bed bug bites can easily be mistaken with mosquito bites so it's best to know what you are looking for when you think you may have pests in your home. Bed bugs are about 6.35 mm. in size with a reddish-brown oval body.
  
   
•  Before moving in check the bed or rooms for signs of bedbugs. Even though they are small insects they are not invisible to the eye. Treating an empty room is far easier than having to do it once you're all moved in.
  
   
• Wash your bedding in hot water and dry on a high heat setting on a weekly basis and remove clutter from your living area. Keeping rooms clean help identify bed bugs and help prevent infestation. 
  
   
• Purchase encasements for your bed and box spring. This does not guarantee bed bugs prevention but they will be helpful in fixing the problem.
  
   
• If you have traveled make sure to check your luggage before entering your home. Wash all your clothes as soon as you can. 
  
   
• If you believe you might have bed bugs, bag up all contaminated items and properly label them to prevent any spreading.
  
   
• If you are using a pesticide, make sure the product is effective against bed bugs. Read the label and follow the directions for use carefully.
  
   
• Never use a pesticide indoors that is intended for outdoor use.
  
   
• If you are living in a multifamily community, inform management that you have an infestation so they can take the proper actions and inform nearby residents to help prevent the spread.

For more information about bed bugs visit HAA Bedbug Resources or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention- Bed Bugs. Don't hesitate to contact an exterminator or pest control professional for further advisement.

Award recipients will be announced at the closing brunch at TAA's Education Conference and Expo to be held in Houston in April. 

Join us in congratulating the following nominees for their hard work and dedication.

Brittany McDowell, NALP 

Business Manager 

Lincoln Property Company 

The Fountains at Memorial City Apts 

The program includes three sessions with specific topics, with a half a day commitment and attendance at other committee meetings which typically last on average of an hour.  We schedule the sessions to occur the first half of the year. 

Participants will head to Austin as part of TAA's Legislative Day this year, too.  

Congratulations to our 2013 Leadership Lyceum Class:

Grant Crowell, CAS, Urban Foresters

Izzy Garza, CAS, Glidden Professional Paint

Kristin McLaughlin, CASE, Criterion Brock –incoming PSC Officer

Mark Billig, CAM, Manager at Ventura Lofts, Southhampton Mgmt

Velissa Parmer, Founding Partner, Mosaic Residential

Christy Rodriguez, CAPS, Regional Manager, Concierge Asset Mgmt

Manda Stamm, Director of Multi-Family, Judwin

Georgeanne Longoria, CAPS, Vice President, Hettig  

Susan Wells, CAM District Manager, and Renovation Manager, Francis Property Mgmt

Quintina Willis, CAM, Area Director, BH Management

Today is their first day of class at HAA.  They are learning about associations in general and about how HAA functions for its members.  A couple of individuals who are completing the program from last year will also be joining classes throughout the program, as needed. 

For more details on Leadership Lyceum, visit the Lyceum information page.

Join members of HAA at the Texas Apartment Association's 2013 Day at the Capitol.

The TAA will be holding its Legislative Conference on Wednesday, February 20, at the Omni Austin Hotel Downtown. The conference will be held in conjunction with the association's winter Board of Directors meeting. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. followed by briefing at the Omni Hotel in downtown Austin. 

Houston attendees will also be treated to lunch hosted by HAA before heading out to visit with local legislators at the Capitol.

If you're new to the legislative process, the Day at the Capitol is a great way to get familiarized with how things work, how to make a voice for yourself and how to take action. Take advantage of this opportunity to meet legislators and learn about proposed bills and how they can affect your company.

For more information visit the TAA website or contact governmentaffairs@taa.org or call 512-479-6252

Alvarado is a lifelong resident of Senate District 6 and has served the Texas House District 145 since 2009. Early voting began January 9 and goes through January 22. Election Day for District 6 is January 26.

HAABGF joins the Texas Apartment Association PAC in supporting Alvarado. 

HAABGF is the political action committee of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit trade association representing the Houston apartment industry.  The group regularly endorses in political campaigns and contributes to campaigns.

HAA members may join HAABGF at their own discretion.  No HAA membership dues money is ever used for political purposes.

To learn more about HAABGF, attend an upcoming luncheon or contact Andy and Aimee at HAA. 

Join us in our support of Alvarado for Texas Senate.

Tickets are $80 per person or $800 for a table of ten with company name if payment is received by January 11. Tickets purchased after January 11 are $100 per person or $1000 for a table of ten with company name and must be picked up at the HAA offices located at 4810 Westway Park Blvd, 77041.

Attire for this event is formal with western flare. So throw on your boots, grab your partner and come doesy doe the night away with us.

For more information or to register for this event please contact meetings@haaonline.org or 713-595-0300.

Need more ideas on how to add a western flare to your look? Our Director of Meetings and Events, Kirsten Deagen, has provided a couple of outfit ideas for those who are still trying to put together our perfect look.  

Resolve to protect your bottom line this year with support to the Houston Apartment Association's Better Government Fund. 

Threats from government are coming at the apartment industry faster than a speeding bullet.  We need a hero, and your contribution to the HAABGF can make you one. Join today and see what a difference you can make as an industry advocate. You don't have to have super human strength to save your business from over regulation, just the willingness to help...

The HAABGF is the political action committee of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit trade association representing the Houston apartment industry.  

HAA members can participate in the HAA Better Government Fund on several levels, with the following benefits:  

All members, at any levels, receive the discounted, member price of $25 admission to BGF luncheons.  Nonmembers of BGF are charged $40.

• Non-Voting Century Club membership is available for $100.  These members are passive, as they contribute to the HAABGF, but have not vote.
• Voting Century Club membership is available for $125.  This means that your money goes toward representation by the Century Club Representative.  For every $500 contributed by the group as a collective, the Century Club Representative (traditionally the newest Product Service Council officer) has one vote.
• The Trustee Level ($500) gives members the benefit of having 1 vote each (of their own).  It also gives them an invitation to the Annual Elected Officials' Reception and Justice of the Peace/Constable appreciation luncheon.  Both are held during November or December.
• The Steering Committee Level ($1500) gives members the benefit of having 3 votes each (of their own).  They are invited to the annual elected officials' reception and JP/Constable luncheon.  The Steering Committee members meet separately from the BGF group at steering committee luncheons (free).  These luncheons are held off site at restaurants.  They allow an intimate opportunity to get to know other steering committee members.  Generally these luncheons are held 4-6 times a year.

HAABGF Meetings occur “as needed,” usually six to eight times a year, depending on the election season. 

Our next meeting will be held on January 8, 2013 at HAA (4810 Westway Park Blvd, 77041).  Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. and a lunch/program begins at Noon.  Our featured speakers on January 8 will be David Mintz, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Texas Apartment Association, and John Sepheri, General Counsel for TAA.  David and John will discuss the upcoming Texas legislative session and threats that TAA will be working against on behalf of the industry. You can register for this event here, or by contacting Aimee Arrington.  

To join the HAA Better Government Fund, fill out this form: BGF Membership Form, and return it to the Public Affairs Department. For a list of 2013 BGF events, click here.   

If you would like to help support HAABGF, without becoming a HAABGF member, you can play in a golf tournament or attend other fundraising events.  Contact Aimee Arrington for information on upcoming events.

Neighboring businesses participated in the event, which also received support from HAA members Comcast, Reliant Energy, Alfred’s Painting, Crestmark Construction Services, The Greensheet, Maintenance Supply Headquarters and Texscape Lawn Services.
 

 

Click the thumbnails below to see full-size images taken at the open house!

To participate, please drop off UNWRAPPED gifts to 580 N. Shepherd Dr. Houston, TX 77007.

This year’s Thanksgiving food drive will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 21^st, at 10:45 am in front of the Rose of Sharon Baptist Church.  If you wish to contribute, please deliver your canned or non-perishable food items to the TCR office no later than Monday, Nov. 19^th.  Or if you prefer you can take them directly to Rose of Sharon for distribution on Nov 21^st.   

For those of you that would like to help with the distribution you are certainly welcome.  We will gather at the church about 30 minutes ahead of time to await the delivery of hams.  As usual, Ken has generously volunteered to purchase 200 hams. 

  

Please let Hollie Poole know if you have any questions and thank you in advance for your generous donations! 

 

HAA's Share Your Holidays Food Drive is in full swing, as well.  More information on that drive may be found at www.haaonline.org/food_drive.  Food must be dropped off by December 5, 2012.  

Hey Managers -  

The holiday season is full of joy, happiness and a time to rejoice and celebrate with our loved ones. Do you have a resident living in your community that may not be as fortunate?   

If you know a family in need and would like to bring them some joy this season, All you need to do is nominate a person or family, and tell us why you feel they deserve to have their apartment home “Decked” for the Holidays.   When we say, “Deck the Halls” that is exactly what we mean!!  The person or family selected will have their apartment home decorated for the Holidays to include: fully decorated Christmas tree, wreath for the door, dining table decorated with all the trimmings, gifts under the tree and a Holiday dinner.  Please give back by completing the nomination form and we will do the rest!   

Entry deadline is November 26, 2012.  On December 5, 2012, the winner will be announced. Please complete this nomination form  

Send your nomination form to lisa@lpurdydesigns.com. 

To read the HHA's Qualification-Based Solicitation in its entirely, click here.

1^st place single booth – WaterLogic/Landmark Companies  

2^nd place single booth – Gingko Residential  

3^rd place single booth – Olympus Property  

Please consider collecting food for both people and pets at your property or corporate office this holiday season. 

HAA will deliver to the The Houston Food Bank and the Rescue Bank for you. Let's help our less fortunate neighbors and show Houston the generosity of  the multifamily community.  

Rescue Bank Most Needed Items  

Food Bank Most Needed Items    

Visit the Houston Food Bank's website for fundraising ideas, customizable collection ideas and a downloadable tracking poster to display your progress! 

Drop off collected food to one of the locations below by Wednesday, December 5:   

• Houston Apartment Association: 4810 Westway Park Blvd, 77041  
• Cotton Commercial: 3600 Brittmoore Road, Suite 190, 77043   
• CAMP Construction: 15139 S Post Oak Rd, 77053    

Questions? Contact Susan Hinkley at 713-595-0313 or shinkley@haaonline.org  

 

Is your company hosting an event or making news? Let us know at media@haaonline.org. You might just end up in our blog and/or Abode magazine!

We would like to take this moment to thank and welcome all of our new members. WELCOME! We would also like thank all those Go-Getters/Recruiters who made this massive list possible! It’s only through your support that HAA continues to grow.

Know someone who would like to be part of HAA? There is still time to add to the 2012 list.  Visit www.haaonline.org/membership/ to submit a new member application.

 For more information and to sign up, click here!    

“Consumers and vendors are hungry for a spam-free SMS text messaging service,” explained Ramak J. Sedigh, founder of TENiFY. “imageTexting by TENiFY is the next generation of SMS mobile marketing, unifying smart phone consumers with messaging on-demand. It allows organizations like the Houston Apartment Association and their members to provide the kind of custom information that mobile consumers demand today.”

“We are always looking for new and better ways to communicate with our members about events and issues,” HAA Executive Vice President Jeff Hall said. “We see TENiFY’s texting system as another way to allow our members to engage with us.”

For more information, go to http://www.imagetexting.com/.

Next Generation SMS Mobile Marketing and Advertising 

Today’s mobile consumers want information when they want it, and where they want it: on their smart phones. SMS messaging provides a text-on-demand capability to provide desired information to the mobile consumer. But earlier solutions were text only and considered spam by many consumers. TENiFY’s imageTexting service solves these problems as the next generation in SMS messaging. First, it is image capable - providing a content rich experience for the mobile consumer. Second, it is spam-free, relying on TENiFY’s superb reputation to safeguard consumer privacy and encourage usage.

In this innovative partnership, TENiFY is working with the Houston Apartment Association to bring mobile advertising and marketing to the Houston apartment industry.

In other words, HAA will be able to offer member vendors and apartment owners/managers the ability to request and receive information – text as well as flyers, images and forms, when they want it. TENiFY’s mobile native solution enables the members to receive this rich content without having to install an app or browse the internet. Thus, simplifying HAA’s communication with its members.

About TENiFY 

TENiFY was founded in 2010 as a tenant relationship management platform provider. As part of this service, TENiFY developed the code for transmitting full MMS (Multi Media Service) as a third party provider. This unique tool gave multi-housing operators the ability to let prospects request information and receive detailed information, including floorplans, by simply texting a keyword to TENiFY owned shortcode 590-590. imageTexting seeks to fill the limitation gap the basic 2-way SMS providers have by limiting the content to only 160-character of text. With TENiFY’s image capable texting services a multitude of businesses - Realtors, Entertainment, Multifamily Operators, Retail Stores, and Ad Agencies etc, are able to better engage existing customers and convert more prospects into actual customers with a meaningful SPAM FREE mobile-native marketing solution.

Web. http://www.tenify.com/
Email. hello(at)tenify(dot)com
Tel. 888.739.8506

About the Houston Apartment Association 

The Houston Apartment Association is a professional trade association that serves individuals and businesses involved in the ownership, construction, management, maintenance and operation of apartments and other rental dwellings in the Houston area.

Web. http://www.haaonline.org/
Email. media(at)haaonline(dot)org
Tel. 713.595.0302

According to the CPSC, corded window coverings are one of the top five hidden hazards in American homes, with infants and children dying each year from strangling in window cords. Some of these incidents involve older products that are still in use but don’t have the safety features instituted in the past decade.

The CPSC, WCSC and Blinds.com have the following tips to help keep your window coverings up-to-date and your children safe:

• Install only cordless window coverings in young children's bedrooms and sleeping areas. Replace window blinds, corded shades and draperies manufactured before 2001 with today's safer products. 
• Move all cribs, beds, furniture and toys away from windows and window cords, preferably to another wall. 
• Keep all window pull cords and inner lift cords out of the reach of children. Make sure that tasseled pull cords are secured out of reach with a cord cleat, and continuous-loop cords are permanently anchored to the floor or wall. Make sure cord stops are properly installed and adjusted to limit movement of inner lift cords. 
• Lock cords into position whenever horizontal blinds or shades are lowered, including when they come to rest on a window sill. 
• Never mount products with accessible back cords within reach of children. 

All information provided by Blinds.com. For more information, visit the WCSC website or Blinds.com. 

United States Senate  

Ted Cruz (R) 

United States House of Representatives  

District 2 - Ted Poe (R) 

District 7 - John Culberson (R) 

District 8 - Kevin Brady (R) 

District 9 - Al Green (D) 

District 10 - Michael McCaul (R) 

District 22 - Pete Olson (R)

District 29 - Gene Green (D) 

Special Election for Houston City Council District E  

Dave Martin    

Texas Senate  

District 4 – Tommy Williams (R)  

District 6 – Mario Gallegos (D)  

District 7 – Dan Patrick (R)  

District 11 – Larry Taylor (R)  

District 13 – Rodney Ellis (D)  

District 15 – John Whitmire (D)  

District 17 – Joan Huffman (R)  

District 18 – Glenn Hegar (R)    

Texas House  

District 3 – Cecil Bell, Jr. (R)  

District 15 – Steve Toth (R)  

District 16 – Brandon Creighton (R)  

District 18 – John Otto (R)  

District 25 – Dennis Bonnen (R)  

District 26 – Rick Miller (R)  

District 27 – Ron Reynolds (D)  

District 28 – John Zerwas (R)  

District 29 – Ed Thompson (R)  

District 85 – Phil Stevenson (R)  

District 126 – Patricia Harless (R)  

District 127 – Dan Huberty (R)  

District 128 – Wayne Smith (R)  

District 129 – John Davis (R)  

District 130 – Allen Fletcher (R)  

District 131 – Alma Allen (D)  

District 132 – Bill Callegari (R)  

District 133 – Jim Murphy (R) – HAA MEMBER  

District 134 – Sarah Davis (R)  

District 135 – Gary Elkins (R)  

District 137 – Gene Wu (D)  

District 138 – Dwayne Bohac (R)  

District 139 – Sylvester Turner (D)  

District 140 – Armando Walle (D)  

District 141 – Senfronia Thompson (D)  

District 142 – Harold V. Dutton (D)  

District 143 – Ana Hernandez Luna (D)  

District 145 – Carol Alvarado (D)  

District 146 – Borris Miles (D)  

District 147 – Garnet Coleman (D)  

District 148 – Jessica Farrar (D)  

District 149 – Hubert Vo (D) - HAA MEMBER  

District 150 – Debbie Riddle (R)   

Texas District Court  

District 165 – Elizabeth Ray (R)   

Harris County Offices  

County Court At Law, Place 1 – Debra Ibarra Mayfield (R)  

County Court At Law, Place 2 – Theresa Chang (R)  

Sheriff – Adrian Garcia (D)  

Tax Assessor-Collector – Mike Sullivan (R)  

Commissioner, Place 1 – El Franco Lee (D)  

Commissioner, Place 3 – Steve Radack (R)  

Commissioner, Place 4 – Jack Cagle (R)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 1 – Dale Gorczynski (D)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 2, Place 1 – Jo Ann Delgado (D)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 3, Place 1 – Mike Parrott (D)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 4, Place 1 – J. Kent Adams (R)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 5, Place 1 – Russ Ridgway (R)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 6, Place 1 – Richard C. Vara (D)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 7, Place 1 – Hilary H. Green (D)  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 8, Place 1 – Holly Williamson (R)  

Constable, Precinct 1 – Alan Rosen (D)  

Constable, Precinct 2 – Christopher “Chris” Diaz (D)  

Constable, Precinct 3 – Ken Jones (D)  

Constable, Precinct 4 – Ron Hickman (R)  

Constable, Precinct 5 – Phil Camus (R)  

Constable, Precinct 6 – Victor Trevino, Jr. (D)  

Constable, Precinct 7 –  May Walker (D)  

Constable, Precinct 8 – Phil Sandlin (R)   

Fort Bend  

Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 1 – Gary Janssen    

METROPOLITAN TRANSIT AUTHORITY Referendum Election  

Referendum on Street Mobility Improvement Program - yes 

City of Houston Special Bond Election  

Proposition A - yes 

Proposition B - yes 

Proposition C - yes 

Proposition D - yes 

Want to get involved?  

If you're looking to get involved in HAA's legislative efforts on behalf of the multifamily industry, consider joining HAA's Better Government Fund by filling out the membership form here. 
 

Resources for Voters   

www.VoteTexas.gov – The Secretary of State’s office has a website full of valuable voter information.  You can even check to find out if you are registered to vote at the site.    

www.HarrisVotes.org – The Harris County Clerk’s office has a website with information on where to vote in Harris County.  You can also print a copy of your voter registration card, if yours is missing.   

www.HAAOnline.org/HAABGF - Find out more information about the Houston Apartment Association Better Government Fund PAC and its endorsed candidates.   

www.TAA.org – The official website of the Texas Apartment Association.   

www.NAAHQ.org  - The official website of the National Apartment Association.   

Here is what the law says in 92.254 (a-1) of the Texas Property Code in regards to an owner's duty to provide smoke alarms:

(a-1)  If requested by a tenant as an accommodation for a person with a hearing-impairment disability or as required by law as a reasonable accommodation for a person with a hearing-impairment disability, a smoke alarm must, in addition to complying with Subsection (a), be capable of alerting a hearing-impaired person in the bedrooms it serves.
 

This is different from most other reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, as it requires the owner to pay for the smoke alarm.  These devices can be very pricey, but a new program from the City of Houston is helping to get these into your renters' hands, free of charge.

Through a grant from FEMA, the City of Houston will be able to provide more than 2,000 detectors to residents who need them.  The detectors will be available on a first come, first served basis and must be requested by the disabled individual.   

Please share these flyers with your residents who may be in need:  
 

Visual Smoke Alarm Flyer (English) 

Visual Smoke Alarm Flyer (Spanish) 

We are also providing an addendum that you can use, free of charge, to honor your compliance with the state law regarding reasonable accommodation for smoke alarms, if you participate in the giveaway program.  

For more information about HAA's Government Affairs activities, please contact govaffairs@haaonline.org.
 

Seven years ago, Hurricane Katrina rolled ashore.  With her winds and waters, she swept unimaginable change into the communities along the Gulf Coast.  Though Houston was not in her path of destruction, she affected our community, all the same. 
 

On September 6, 2005, more than 250 HAA members attended an emergency meeting at City Hall with Mayor White's representatives concerning the Katrina Housing voucher program.  The program, which would later be known as the Disaster Housing Assistance Program as it was transitioned to HUD, was little more than an idea at the time.  The Mayor and his Deputy Chief of Staff John Walsh (now the Director of the Graduate Real Estate Program at the University of Houston) sought to create a short-term stabilizing program for victims of the hurricane, who had been relocated to Houston.  

As a result of the meeting, 201 owners and companies signed letters of intent to set aside more than 10,000 units for the hurricane evacuees. In the end, more than 37,000 units were rented as a result of displacement by Hurricane Katrina. 
 

The program did not make apartment owners rich, in fact it caused major financial hardship to some companies, as illustrated by this article by PolitiFact Texas. 

However, the program showed the city and then nation that Houston's multifamily housing industry answers the calls of the needs of our community.

HAA owners rolled out the welcome mat, when families came to our city to seek help and shelter. 
 

Well done HAA members.  We're proud of you.
 

Here's the article about the fateful meeting that took place at Houston City Hall regarding the program.
 

XXXX has sent me two different invoices with two different move in dates, and neither one is correct. The commission rate is wrong, and they sent me a phony verification supposedly signed by someone in my office. When you try to call, their voicemail is full. 

To read the full press release discussing the committee's formation and importance, click here.

Interested in sharing your expertise and time with HAA?  New to training and facilitating and want to increase your skills?  Join us for a FREE program: Getting Comfortable at the Head of the Class, with Sue Weston of Dallas, formerly the head of Education for Pinnacle, on July 25th from 9am-11am.

• Your Role as an Instructor of Adults
• Applying your Experience
• Presenting with Others or on a Panel
• What's in it for Them
• Your role as an HAA Volunteer
• Nerves and Confidence

Also on July 25th and intended for the more seasoned instructors and includes lunch, Advanced Tips and Techniques for Trainers from 12:00pm-2:30pm

Please Register online via the Calendar page at no cost, or email your RSVP to education@haaonline.org

Please remember these endorsed* candidates when you head to the polls.  Only candidates with opponents in the primary runoff are listed below:

 Federal Races: 

US Senate - David Dewhurst  

 Texas House Races: 

District 26 - Rick Miller

District 137 - Gene Wu

Harris County Constables:
 
Precinct 2 - Zerick Guinn 


Click on the county name below to find out where and when you can early vote!

  Austin County 
  

Brazoria County    

  
 Chambers County   

Colorado County       

Fort Bend County      

Harris County  

Liberty County  

Montgomery County
  

Elections Administrator

Sherryl Evans

51 E. Pine Ave, Room A1, Coldspring 77331

(936) 653-5804

FAX: (936) 653-5808

Waller County
   

The Texas Apartment Association is working to defend the ability of apartment owners and managers to fairly proceed with evictions in Justice of the Peace Court. 
 

Link to more information from TAA.
 

The Texas Supreme Court Advisory Committee (SCAC) met on June 22 and 23 to begin consideration of proposed changes to rules governing the eviction process, as well as other procedural rules governing how justice of the peace courts operate.

At the meeting, the committee, which is made up of 55 members appointed by the Texas Supreme Court to advise the court on rules, began the process of thoroughly scrutinizing proposed changes developed by a task force earlier this year.

TAA, along with the Texas Association of Realtors, the Texas Building Owners and Managers Association, several justices of the peace and others, raised strong concerns about the scope of the proposed changes and potential problems, including the possibility that the process could be delayed. TAA conservatively estimated that if the task force proposals are adopted as initially proposed, it could cost the industry more than $20 million a year in lost rent and additional court costs.

Fortunately, the SCAC and the members of the original task force who drafted the rule changes appear open to making modifications to the proposal. It is TAA’s position that the current eviction process works smoothly overall, and there isn’t a need for wholesale changes. If there are areas of the rules that need to be tweaked, any adjustments should ensure that the process remains quick and efficient so that a rental property owner who has not received rent owed can recover possession of a unit as quickly as possible.

San Antonio Apartment Association Legal Counsel David Fristche spoke before the SCAC on TAA’s behalf. Houston Apartment Association Legal Counsel Howard Bookstaff also attended the meetings with TAA staff.

The proposed rules revision is a result of legislation passed in 2011 that eliminated small claims courts and incorporated this function into justice of the peace courts. Some additional rule changes are necessary because of changes to the law made by HB 1111, the legislation TAA successfully sought aimed at limiting abuses of pauper’s affidavit appeals.

TAA was not given the opportunity to have an active role in the task force process but has been working on this issue for several months. Among other steps, TAA retained special legal counsel to assist in fighting the proposed rules and also communicated with members of the Texas Supreme Court and the Advisory Committee in advance of the June 23-24 meeting. A copy of TAA’s letter to the Supreme Court Advisory Committee, Justice Court Rules of Procedure Side-By-Side comparison chart and Statutes Referenced in TAA’s Letter to the Supreme Court Advisory Committee are all available for review.

The SCAC will continue consideration of the rules at its next meeting on August 23-26. After the SCAC takes action, the proposed rules will go to the Supreme Court. The rules will be published for the public 10 weeks before the Court takes final action on the rules, which is expected to take place by the end of the year. It is expected that whatever changes to the rules are finally adopted will take effect May 2013.

 

If you are interested in HAA's government affairs activities, please contact govaffairs@haaonline.org.

Thursday, July 12, @ 11:30 a.m. 

Register

Join HAA Legal Counsel, Howard Bookstaff, for lunch in this casual, informative environment.

 

• Small claims cases 
• Security Deposit Issues 
• Landlord's liens and lock-outs 
• Eviction proceedings 
• and YOUR questions too 

Sponsored by: HD Supply 

Ken Bohan is pictured above with Hall of Fame Award recipient Eileen Subinksy at their recent appointment to the Houston Planning Commission.
 

According to the US Census Bureau, there are more than 500,000 individuals in the Houston-Galveston region with access and functional support needs. Previous regional evacuations brought to light the challenges these individuals and their families face during an emergency event.

 

The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) has developed two new products to help access and functional support needs (AFSN) individuals and others better prepare for hurricane season. As part of its "Together Against the Weather" (TAW) campaign, the agency is launching a new website and is releasing a new point-of-service video.

 

www.togetheragainsttheweather.com features specific materials and information for educators, emergency management officials, families, parents, healthcare providers, houses of worship, media and service agencies. In addition, visitors to the website can contact their county emergency management offices with one click and get specific information pertinent to their county, as well as view evacuation maps. The site features instructional videos as well as print materials for download that can be customized and distributed by their organization, school or office.

 

The video demonstrates how to plan for a hurricane, including evacuation or remaining home in the event of a storm. Produced in English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Vietnamese, the video also features American Sign Language and captioning for the hearing impaired.

 

Video content was developed from physician and parent input meetings, as well as feedback from emergency managers and pediatric service organizations throughout H-GAC's 13-county region.  Actual families of AFSN children are featured in the 7-minute program that uses the TAW strategy of motivational questions to encourage action and overcome challenges.

 

Lori Upton, Director of Regional Preparedness for the Southeast Texas Regional Advisory Council, said, "Pre-planning guidance to families with a medically fragile child will help ensure adequate provisions, medications, and equipment are identified in advance and help relieve some of the anxiety and stress associated with a disaster and the aftermath."

 

Alan Clark, H-GAC Transportation Director, added, "The Together Against the Weather program is an example of our commitment to ensure that all residents in our region are prepared for emergencies and disasters. The new pediatric point-of-service video will be a valuable preparedness resource for those caring for children with access and functional support needs."

 

About Houston-Galveston Area Council  

 

H-GAC (http://www.h-gac.com) is a voluntary association of local governments in the 13-county Gulf Coast Planning Region-an area of 12,500 square miles and more than 5.7  million people.  H-GAC works to promote efficient and accountable use of local, state, and federal tax dollars and serves as a problem-solving and information forum for local governments.

 

Together Against the Weather is a communications campaign created to help people with access and functional support needs better plan and prepare for hurricanes in the 13-county region of the Houston-Galveston Area Council. The Together Against the Weather strategies and tool kit of materials were developed to help overcome challenges experienced by the program's targeted audiences and to encourage the formation of supportive partnerships in advance of a storm."

 

New Senior Apartment Community in Cypress, Texas Hosts Ribbon Cutting and Open House on June 11, 2012 at Noon

Recently built GreenHouse Village Senior Apartments is pleased to present amenities and living options to all seniors looking for a new, affordable home

On June 11, 2012 at 12 noon, GreenHouse Village, in unison with the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce, will host a ribbon cutting and open house for the community at 19015 West Rd. GreenHouse Village encourages all neighbors in the area to come meet their new neighbors, tour the property, and bring any seniors age 55 and above to do the same. There will be a raffle for anyone applying for residency or for those who bring an applicant.

As a new apartment community in Cypress, Texas, GreenHouse Village provides an environment for active senior living. It offers affordable living coupled with ample amenities. Apartment homes have private balconies and washer and dryer connections. GreenHouse village is located near a variety of businesses providing shopping and dining opportunities for residents.

GreenHouse Village is the newest multifamily community providing affordable senior housing in Cypress, Texas.

For more information about the ribbon cutting and open house, or the GreenHouse Village Senior Apartments, please contact Johanne Ciechowski at the community. 281-550-7800.

Congratulations GreenHouse Village and HomeSpring Realty Partners!

If you have news to share with HAA members, please contact HAA's Communications and Public Affairs departments at media@haaonline.org.

To make a long story short, a sales person somehow gets in contact with a maintenance man, gets his name and tells him that the management has confirmed an order.

 

Bulbs are sent out - they are about 4 times the price of regular bulbs, and unless the property questions the invoice, XXX receives payment for the bulbs. This has happened on two of our properties. The first time we paid at a discounted rate to finalize the invoice and not have an outstanding invoice. They charge a 20% restocking penalty and no returns.

First, HAA strongly recommends that renters submit all repair requests in writing, as most lease contracts (including the TAA lease - see www.taa.org for a sample) require this in order for management to make the repairs. Renters should NOT withhold rent for needed repairs, as this gives the owner the right to evict the resident for nonpayment.

On the flip side, the Texas Apartment Association also recommends that owners not exercise legal rights to disconnect utilities (for bona fide repairs, etc.) during the summer unless "absolutely necessary" due to the "health and safety issues that could arise from utility disconnects during times of extreme temperatures" and requests that communities respond "sensitively" to repair requests.

For more information on how to stay cool and safe during the summer, visit TAA's Neighbors CARE page to learn more about their resident awareness program and HAA's Beat the Heat page for safety resources and guidelines.

TAA urges members to participate
in its "Neighbors CARE" program and
combat heat-related injuries 

As temperatures begin to heat up around the state, it’s important to remember that even moderate prolonged heat can cause serious problems. According to state experts, one of the most important ways to fight heat-stress problems is for neighbors to look out for their neighbors. In that spirit, and because apartment communities offer the advantages of neighbors living in close proximity to each other, the Texas Apartment Association is continuing the "Neighbors CARE" program, originally launched 14 years ago.  

The "Neighbors CARE" program promotes rental housing resident awareness of heat stress and encourages residents to CARE for their neighbors to help minimize the potential of someone suffering heat stress. We’re asking you to participate in this program by sharing the "Neighbors CARE" message included in this email and the Heat-Stress Precaution tips and other information that is available from your local apartment association and on TAA’s website at www.taa.org.  

The "Neighbors CARE" message is simple. It encourages all rental housing residents to:  

Check on your neighbors daily–especially the elderly, who may be more susceptible to heat stress, and those on fixed incomes who may be concerned about expensive utility bills. 

Always take precautions to prevent heat stress. Remember, everyone is susceptible to the effects of heat stress. 

Report any concerns you have about the health and safety of your neighbors to the proper authorities. Report any problems with air conditioning equipment promptly to management. 

Educate yourself, your friends and neighbors about the signs of heat stress and steps to prevent it. 

In light of that fact, and the health and safety issues that could arise from utility disconnects during times of extreme temperatures, we strongly encourage our members not to exercise any legal rights to disconnect electricity unless absolutely necessary. Under state law, electricity, water and gas may not be cut off under any circumstances other than for bona fide repairs, construction or emergency. See the 2012-2013 TAA REDBOOK, pages 374, 377 and 383-384, or visit the Utilities Laws/Forms section of the TAA REDBOOK Online and search for "discontinuance or interruption of utilities."  

For the same reasons, we encourage members to respond sensitively to air conditioning repair requests. While availability of labor and materials may necessitate some delays, we encourage you to respond to these repair requests as promptly as the situation warrants and is possible under the circumstances of your particular property and location.   

HOUSTON – Memorial Day is the start of summer, with pools opening and families hitting the beach. With that comes the sad reality that dozens of children and adults in our area will drown this summer if they don’t follow basic swim safety guidelines. The YMCA of Greater Houston is working to eliminate drownings and on Thursday, May 24 will launch the sixth annual YMCA Water Wise campaign, designed to educate the community about drowning prevention.  

YMCA Water Wise is a multifaceted awareness program that includes free swim lessons at area apartment communities. Those lessons target low-income, minority children who, studies show, are much less likely to learn to swim than their peers. YMCA Water Wise also includes a traveling speaker’s bureau that promotes swim safety, a television and billboard PSA campaign, educational materials in English and Spanish and a website with water safety, CPR and swim lesson information.  

The program will officially kick off with a press conference on Thursday, May 24 at 10:30 am.  

"Children are our top priority," said Clark Baker, YMCA of Greater Houston president and CEO. "Our Water Wise program teaches kids and their parents how to be safe around any body of water and equips them with life-saving techniques. Our commitment to our families is an essential part of what we do and who we are."  

Representatives from the Houston Fire Department, Children's Protective Services, Houston Apartment Association and the YMCA will also speak. Clear Channel Outdoor will unveil the YMCA Water Wise PSA billboards that will be located throughout Houston as part of this awareness campaign.

There is a dire need for water safety education in the greater Houston area. Nine children have drowned in the greater Houston area so far this year, all of which have been under the age of 10. Drowning claims the lives of nearly 3,000 people every year; however, children four years of age and younger have the highest drowning death rate.  Most drownings and near-drowning accidents happen when a child falls into a pool or is left alone in the bathtub. Children who survive a near drowning may have brain damage; after four to six minutes under water, the damage is usually irreversible.
                                                              
The Houston Apartment Association is a key partner in the YMCA Water Wise program and its member properties have provided more than 5,400 free swim lessons for children at local apartment communities.

“All too often, drowning is the result of a lack of parental supervision or swimming education for children," said HAA President Jenifer Paneral. "In previous years, we’ve been able to decrease and even eliminate drowning in apartment property swimming pools, so we know educational programs work. I encourage apartment owners and managers to continue to participate in Water Wise to help both parents and children learn how to be safer in and around water."

In addition, through funding from the USA Swimming Foundation, the YMCA of Greater Houston has greatly expanded its reach via YMCA Water Wise.  The USA Swimming Foundation supports the sport of swimming from grassroots to gold medals. Through its programs, nearly 50,000 kids have taken swim lessons to date.

WHO: YMCA of Greater Houston, the Houston Apartment Association, Houston Fire Department, Children’s Protective Services and others who support drowning prevention and swim safety.

WHAT: A dynamic and visual press event highlighting the YMCA’s drowning prevention and awareness program, YMCA Water Wise. A mock drowning will be performed.
    
WHEN: Thursday, May 24, 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Remington Park Apartments, 5510 South Rice, Houston, TX 77081

For information on YMCA Water Wise, swim safety tips, swimming lessons, or to find the YMCA nearest you, log on to www.ywaterwise.org.

 

Early voting has begun for the 2012 Primaries. Vote today or on election day - May 29, 2012 (the day after Memorial Day). 

Please remember these endorsed* candidates when you head to the polls.  Only candidates with opponents in the primary are listed below:

Federal Races: 

US Senate - David Dewhurst 

US Representative, District 2 - Ted Poe 

US Representative, District 7 - John Culberson  

US Representative, District 8 - Kevin Brady  

US Representative, District 9 - Al Green

US Representative, District 10 - Michael McCaul 

US Representative, District 22 - Pete Olson 

Statewide Races: 

Railroad Commission: Comm. Barry Smitherman
Texas Supreme Court, Seat 2: Justice Don WillettTexas Supreme Court, Seat 4: Justice David Medina
Texas Supreme Court, Seat 6: Justice Nathan Hecht  

Texas Senate: 

District 4 - Sen. Tommy Williams
District 11 - Larry Taylor 

Texas House: 

District 3 - Cecil Bell, Jr. 

District 15 - Rob Eissler 

District 18 - John Otto 

District 29 - Ed Thompson 

District 85 - Lee Duggan (former HAA member)
District 127 -  Dan Huberty
District 129 - John Davis
District 131 - Alma Allen
District 132 - Bill Callegari
District 133 - Jim Murphy (HAA member)
District 138 - Dwayne Bohac
District 147 - Garnet Coleman
District 150 - Debbie Riddle 

Texas District Court 165: 

Elizabeth Ray 

Harris County Races: 

County Court at Law, Place 1 - Debra Ibarra Mayfield
County Court at Law, Place 2 - Theresa Chang
Sheriff - Adrian Garcia
Tax Assessor-Collector - Mike Sullivan
Commissioner, Precinct 4 - Jack Cagle

Harris County Justices of the Peace (includes all races, contested or not):
Precinct 1, Place 1 - Dale Gorczynski
Precinct 2, Place 1 - Jo Ann Delgado
Precinct 3, Place 1 - Mike Parrott
Precinct 4, Place 1 - J. Kent Adams
Precinct 5, Place 1 - Russ Ridgway
Precinct 6, Place 1 - Richard Vara
Precinct 7, Place 1 - Hilary Green
Precinct 8, Place 1 - Holly Williamson

Harris County Constables:
Precinct 3 - Ken Jones
Precinct 4 - Ron Hickman
Precinct 5 - Phil Camus
Precinct 6 - Victor Trevino
Precinct 7 - May Walker
Precinct 8 - Phil Sandlin

Click on the county name below to find out where and when you can early vote!

Austin County (click on May 29, 2012 Polling Locations)

Brazoria County  

Chambers County  

Colorado County 

Fort Bend County  

Harris County  

Liberty County 

Montgomery County 

Matagorda County (click for Democratic and Republican Party locations)

San Jacinto County 

Waller County  

Wharton County  
 

If you have any questions about HAA's government affairs activities, please contact the Public Affairs Department.

*The Houston Apartment Association Better Government Fund endorses candidates for local and state races.  The Texas Apartment Association Political Action Committee and National Apartment Association PAC make endorsements in state and federal races. The list above represents a compilation of endorsements from across the PACs. HAA membership dues never are used to fund campaign contributions.  Only contributions to the HAABGF or PACs are used for contributions to candidates.

Sign up for the Waterwise program by visiting www.haaonline.org/Splash 

“In previous years, we’ve been able to decrease and even eliminate drowning in apartment property swimming pools, so we know educational programs work. I encourage apartment communities to continue to participate in Water Wise to help both parents and children learn how to be safer in and around water," HAA President Jenifer Paneral said. 

 

3rd ANNUAL MIDNIGHT MADNESS MARATHON BASEBALL GAME FOR CHARITY TO TAKE PLACE AT THE SUGAR LAND SKEETERS MINOR LEAGUE STADIUM

What: 3nd Annual Midnight Madness Marathon Charity Baseball Game. Come see local celebrities and baseball players compete in a home run derby and participate in a marathon 12-hour baseball game!

Proceeds from the event will go directly to the family of David Gonzalez, a 16-year-old Waller high school student with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). David is wheelchair bound and has special medical needs that are not covered by insurance.

When:     10 a.m. Sunday May 20
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – Home Run Derby
12 noon – 12 midnight – Midnight Madness Marathon baseball game

Where:     Sugar Land Skeeters Minor League Stadium, 1 Stadium Drive
Sugar Land, 77498 (across from Sugar Land Regional Airport)

Who: Ball players aged 14-64. Special guests include Bob Ford, the voice of the Houston Astros, Miss Houston, Miss Teen Houston, recording artist Mary Sarah sings the National Anthem. Former major leaguer baseball players and other celebrities are also scheduled to appear. Professional players who participated last year include Justin Thompson (Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers) and Jeff Sparks (Tampa Bay Devil Rays).

Global Sports Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity, hosts the event. It is organized by David Fantin, a local businessman, philanthropist and competitive amateur baseball player. His employer, Liberty Real Estate Advisors, is the Grand Slam Sponsor.

Giveaways include gift cards to popular retailers, and sports memorabilia. The playground and concessions stands will be open, so bring the entire family. Admission is free. Donations are welcomed and needed for the recipient.

To learn more about Global Sports Foundation, the baseball charity marathon game, or to donate, visit: www.globalsportsfoundation.org

 

The Ipad2 raffle tickets brought in $2,046.00 and our lucky winner was Janett Hernandez of Astro Towing.
 

Please be sure to thank the sponsors when you see them because without them we would not be able to hold this event and donate such a large amount of dough - AAA Plumbers, Apple Termite and Pest Control, BAC Products, CAMP Construction Services, Craven Carpet, Direct Energy, For Rent Media Solutions, HD Supply, Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search, Houston Pest, The Liberty Group, MAB Flooring, Total Package Turnkey and Top Gun Security and Investigations. 

Attendees will be hosted to lunch and personal tours of this property from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Jerry Gontownik of Sterling Grove, LP and Linda Crosson from the City of Houston will be conducting the ribbon cutting ceremony which will take place promptly at 11 AM. Property tours, as well as lunch buffet, and various visual presentations will be on-going from 11:15 AM to 1:00 PM. Attending will be officials from the City of Houston, State of Texas and leaders from the Near Northwest Management District.

The $12 million dollar renovation of the Reserve at White Oak was made possible by Federal Ike Recovery Funding that was awarded to the City of Houston as part of a total $33 million dollar renovation of multi-family properties situated along the Antoine Corridor. After two years of renovation the property formerly named Sterling Grove Apartments has undergone a complete exterior and interior renovation and it is our honor to formally present this remarkable apartment community to the residents of the City of Houston.

Reserve at White Oak will provide affordable housing for low income households, within a family-oriented environment. One to three bedroom apartments and townhomes are available, and all units will have energy efficient appliances, double paned windows, faux hardwood floors, faux granite countertops, bookshelves, and generous closet space. Each apartment offers a view of either landscaped courtyards or pools. Additional amenities include an activity center with planned activities, business center, playground, and dog run.

About Rockwell Management Corp.
Rockwell Management Corp. was founded in 1994 by Etan M. Mirwis and has since evolved into a leading property management firm in Southeast Texas. Headquartered in Houston, RMC currently manages 23 multi-family properties with over 5,000 units and 6 office buildings totaling 570,000 sq.ft. Rockwell Management Corp. ranks among the top property management firms in the greater Houston area in terms of total portfolio size and strives to create a total community environment at all it’s properties. For more information, go to www.rockwellmgmt.com. 

The full press release from the City is included here:

City of Houston Launches Enhanced Effort to Collect Delinquent Water Payments
 Customers Face Loss of Service

Effective today, the Houston Department of Public Works and Engineering (PWE) has started an enhanced effort to cut off water service to commercial customers with seriously past due water bills.  Similar action will follow in two weeks for multi-family and residential property owners who do not pay off their delinquent accounts.  More than 22,000 city water customers are more than 200 days past due on their water bills.  The number of days past due averages 231 and the total amount due the city exceeds $13 million.

“We started increased termination of water service to delinquent commercial customers this morning, but will provide a two week grace period to allow multi-family and residential property owners one last chance to make good on their past due accounts and avoid loss of service,” said Mayor Annise Parker.  These customers have been notified repeatedly that their accounts are past due.  It is not fair to our customers who pay on time or fiscally responsible for me to allow this situation to continue.”

An analysis of payment trends found that there are a significant number of customers who only pay their bills when they believe they are nearing the point of losing service.  This is evident in the number of accounts delinquent for more than 52 days (the minimum delinquency before the city can legally cut off service.  There is anecdotal evidence in the phone calls to the PWE call center from citizens wanting to know how long they can delay payment before service is disconnected.  Based on collections to date, delinquent charges are nearing record levels for this year.  In 2011 there was a nearly 18 percent increase in delinquencies as compared to 2010.  The enhanced collection effort is aimed at reversing this downward trend. 

PWE has hired temporary customer service staff to assist with service suspensions, to help with the  increase in payment activity anticipated as a result of the enhanced collection effort, and also to quickly turn service back on once the payments are processed. 

The city offers assistance to eligible senior citizens, the disabled and low income single-family homeowners who are financially unable to pay their water bills.  There is currently more than $107,000 available in the WATER fund.  A total of 1,530 customers have been assisted in the city’s current fiscal year.

 

 
On the upside, more than 200,000 Houston area rental units cost an average of $757 per month, or $ .87 per square feet. Some advantages of renting include:

• Location and accessibility: A great benefit is the added convenience that communities tend to be located close to home, school, work and shopping. This helps renters save time and can cut down on daily commuting. 

• Low maintenance: Need a light bulb changed? Did your air conditioner go out? With on-site maintenance, renters can save money and worry less about unexpected repairs. 

• Amenities: Many apartment communities offer excellent amenities and services such as fitness rooms, pools, clubhouses and business centers. Today, new complexes are larger and can include attached garages, alarm systems and updated countertops and appliances.
 

Camp Hope will provide interim housing for Wounded Warriors, veterans and their families in a caring and positive environment. Camp Hope is located in a quiet and safe setting whereby veterans and their immediate family members can find healing, help and hope while benefiting from intensive treatment for Post Traumatic Stress.

Near the Sam Houston Race Park.
Exit Fallbrook. Turn south (inside the Beltway).
Turn Right on Windfern. Derrington is the next left.
Parking will be directed.
(wear walking shoes)

To enter a cook team, sponsor a cook team , or learn more about PTSD go to
http://ptsdusa.net/ or contact Doug Brown at 713-203-8342, dbrown@greystar.com.  

‘‘It is great to be recognized by HUD for all the hard work that our staff put into running this program, which is both overly complicated and severely underfunded,’’ said Houston Housing Authority CEO & President Tory Gunsolley. ‘‘This year we are receiving 80 cents for every dollar it takes to actually run our voucher program, one of the largest in the nation.’’

Of the roughly 17,000 households participating in the voucher program, 35 percent are elderly or disabled and almost half of the Houstonians receiving assistance are children. Despite adding over 2,400 new households to the voucher program in 2011, HHA’s waiting list for affordable housing is well over 15,000 families.

The Houston Housing Authority provides affordable homes and services to more than 60,000 low-income Houstonians, including over 17,000 families housed through the Housing Choice Voucher Program and another 5,500 living in 25 public housing and tax credit developments around the city. HHA also administers the nation’s third largest voucher program exclusively serving homeless veterans. More information about HHA can be found at www.housingforhouston.com.

National Championship Qualifying Program

1st Place Overall Jose Herrera, Gables Residential
2nd Place Overall Scott Heffernan, Post Properties
3rd Place Overall Carlos Galo, Camden
4th Place Overall Gerardo Urbano Greystar
5th Place Overall Gerardo Luna Milestone Management
6th Place Overall Marcos Mata Gables Residential
7th Place Overall Arcenio Fuentes Camden
8th Place Overall Miguel Meraz W R H Realty Services Inc
9th Place Overall Rolando Valdez W R H Realty Services Inc
10th Place Overall Edwin Flores Gables Residential

Dual Flush Retrofit

1st Place Scott Heffernan, Post Properties
2nd Place Jose Martinez, AMLI Residential
3rd Place Ricardo Martinez, Tarantino Properties Inc

Appliance Repair

1st Place Jose Alvarado, Rockstar Capital Management LLC
2nd Place Rolando Guillen, Lincoln Property Company
3rd Place Scott Heffernan, Post Properties

Fire & CO Safety

1st Place Israel Gutierrez, A M L I Residential
2nd Place Jose Herrera, Gables Residential
3rd Place Carlos Galo, Camden

Key Control Deadbolt

1st Place David Reyna, BG Staffing
2nd Place Carlos Galo, Camden
3rd Place Miguel Meraz, W R H Realty Services Inc

Faucet Repair

1st Place Manuel Ponce, Greystar
2nd Place Ernesto Martinez, Berkshire Property Advisors LLC
3rd Place Jose Herrera, Gables Residential

Lamp & Ballast

1st Place Marcos Mata, Gables Residential
2nd Place Jose Herrera, Gables Residential
3rd Place Carlos Galo, Camden

Ceiling Fan

1st Place Gerardo Urbano, Greystar
2nd Place Carols Trevino, Post Properties
3rd Place Juan Suazo, Riverstone Residential Group

Race Car

1st Place Gerardo Luna, Milestone Management
2nd Place Manuel Garcia, Medrano Francis
3rd Place Israel Diaz, Texas Inter-Faith Housing Corp

 

"As a public affairs and communications intern, I got to see how HAA serves its members and their residents through careful communication, government outreach and informative, fun events. It was a crash course in many disciplines." - Summer 2012 Intern, Amy Carl, University of Houston

Public Affairs Internship - This internship is offered for the fall of 2012.  This internship is with our Public Affairs Department and focuses on media relations, community partnerships and government affairs activities. Students best suited to this internship include those studying: Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Pre-Law and Political Science. This internship is PAID.

Communications Internship - This internship is offered for the fall of 2012.  This internship is with our Communications Department, focusing on conducting interviews, writing articles and taking photos for our monthly magazine, ABODE.  Students best suited to this internship include those studying: Communications, Photography and Journalism. This internship is UNPAID. 

Resident Relations Internship - This internship is offered for the fall of 2012.  This intern works with our Resident Relations Department, focusing on assisting residents in the process of making complaints or finding answers regarding their rights as renters.  Students best suited to this internship include those studying: Social Work, Psychology, Social Sciences and Pre-Law. This internship is UNPAID.

Contact us if you fit the bill or pass these on to someone else who does! The contact information for each internship may be found in the description.
 

Take part in the HAA Sports Challenge Friday, May 4 while helping out school children and competing against your favorite peers! All proceeds from this event will go toward the purchase of school supplies, so be sure to register your company today.  

• Location: Houston Sportsplex 12631 South Main (1-2 blocks west of South Post Oak on Main Street)  
• Registration: 9 a.m.  
• Competition: 10 a.m. - noon  
• Tug of War: 1 p.m. 
• Cost: Team fee - $350.00 (includes lunch) and Spectator fee - $20.00 (includes lunch)  

Field Events:

Each team consists of three men and three women with an option of one male and one female alternate. Teams will compete in five field events and the top three will be awarded medals after the competition. Tug-O-War will be a competition between suppliers and property management players.

Total Package Turnkey Home Run Derby - all six team members will hit a wiffle ball with a plastic bat. 

H D Supply Football Toss - each team member will throw five footballs to each other from various spots. 

Direct Energy Buddy Walk - all six team members will walk in unison ten yards forwards and ten yards backward on a pair of wooden tracks with strap handles. 

For Rent Media Solutions Soccer Ball Blitz - all six team members will kick five soccer balls into a goal. 

Hire Priority Basketball Shoot-Out - each team member will shoot five basketball shots from various spots. 

A A A Plumbers Tug of War - a competition between suppliers and property management players.  

• Prep Day 1: Thursday, April 26 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• Prep Day 2: Friday, April 27 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (tentative)

• Build Day: Saturday, April 28 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
   

The site is located at 6700 S. Dairy Ashford Houston, TX 77072. To register, contact Lori at lldunn2000@yahoo.com or call 281-575-7379. For more information, visit here.

 

  

You can catch more tips from Brent at the HAA's 2012 Education Conference/Expo on May 16 at Reliant Center.  He'll be leading a session called "The Top Ten Mistakes You Made with your Social Media Plan and How to Fix Them!" with Stephanie Graves of Asset Plus.  

Have a story you would like to share on the Houston Apartment Association blog? We'd love to hear it! Send your blog to Aimee Arrington at aarrington@haaonline.com.
 

As part of its release, the DOJ stated:

“Requirements for existing swimming pools will be extended for 60 days.  The department will publish a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking with a 15-day comment period on a possible six-month extension in order to allow additional time to address misunderstandings regarding compliance with these ADA requirements.”

This means the compliance date for any apartment communities impacted by the new ADA standards is now May 15.  Further, that date could be extended by an additional six months depending on the outcome of the proposed rulemaking. We will update you on the status of the proposed rulemaking and comments from NAA/NMHC when that is issued. To read the complete release, click here. 
 

“I didn’t want to let him down, so I called everyone I could think of and tried to get them to join. It honestly isn’t hard to get someone to join the HAA if one believes in it and one firmly believes that it is a win-win situation for both parties”

Armed with a list of advantages that HAA membership brings and using his business network, Claude Arnold has been able to recruit 500 new members to HAA. Claude is the only HAA member to have accomplished this feat so far. His incredible contribution has without doubt strengthened HAA’s reach. Claude has some words of advice for new members:

“The advice I give new members is that to be successful, they need to join HAA, go to the meetings and meet as many builders and management companies as possible.”

To read more about Claude Arnold, check out this month’s issue of ABODE here.
Interested in following in Claude’s footsteps? Join us for the Membership Campaign Kick-off & Happy Hour on Tuesday, March 27. For details click here.

 

·         24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Red Cross staff and volunteers are on call to help families affected by fire and other disasters with financial assistance for food, clothing and shelter as well as much needed comfort and support.   

·         Every 15 hours the Red Cross is helping neighbors in need 

·         Last year the Red Cross helped more than 3,000 individuals and 900 families recover from devastating fires.   

·         75% of the fires the red cross responds to are apartment fires 

·         The red cross will spend $1 million on direct immediate assistance to fire victims 

·         Please support this organization that supports our industry and our residents. www.houstonredcross.org 

Did your property receive help from the Red Cross?  Tell us your story.. 

There has never been a better time than NOW for HAA members to tell Congress en masse at NAA Capitol Conference how federal legislation could impact the apartment industry. Successful advocacy and growing our industry’s influence in Washington, D.C. takes strong legislative strategies and grassroots involvement to build relationships with Congress members. 

Between March 11 - 14, you will learn from political analysts and commentators, attend advocacy education sessions and issue briefings, and meet with their members of the U.S. Senate and congressional staff for both houses.

Speakers  include:

March 12 Kickoff – Political strategist and commentator Donna Brazille and former Bush White House Press Secretary Dana Perino will present a lively point-counterpoint discussion about politics, elections and issues on Capitol Hill.

March 13 Government Affairs Roundtable Luncheon – Editor and Publisher of the Rothenberg Political Report, Stuart Rothenberg will share insightful, often humorous comments about the elections, Capitol Hill issues and the nature of politics itself (ticketed event).

 

My Brother's Keeper Outreach Center seeks to help the working family. Beginning February 2012, they will start opening evening hours on the 4th Tuesday of each month. The first day of operation will be Tuesday, February 28 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information about their services or to learn how you can donate pantry items and get involved, visit their website here.

Guardián de mi hermano Outreach Center busca ayudar a la familia trabajadora. A partir de febrero de 2012, vamos a empezar a abrir horas de la tarde en el cuarto martes de cada mes. Primer día de la operación será Martes, 28 de febrero a partir de 18:30 a 20:30.


 

Neighborhood Tax Centers, a program of Neighborhood Centers Inc., provides absolutely FREE, quality tax preparation for hardworking families of Houston.
They offer all the same services as paid tax preparers do such as e-filing for faster refunds and direct deposit.  They also offer free ITIN assistance and assistance with banking options such opening a free bank account with our Promise Credit Union for direct deposit.

While the word “free” is used by many paid preparers, such as advertising “free estimates,” there are usually exclusions which cause you to still end up paying.   You should never have to pay for any special tax credits or for services such as e-filing or direct deposit.  Neighborhood Tax Centers will always do this for free.

Families earning less than $50,000 and single individuals earning less than $30,000 qualify for free tax preparation with Neighborhood Tax Centers. That’s the only thing you need to be eligible for our program.  That means 50% of Houstonians can benefit from this free service.  Even if you don’t qualify, you know someone who does!

Neighborhood Tax Centers has 16 locations in the Greater Houston area. You can go to the location that is most convenient to you.  As long as you meet our income requirements, you can live anywhere and receive our service for free.

Call 2-1-1 Texas/United Way Helpline by dialing 2-1-1 to find the location nearest you and its hours of operation.  2-1-1 can also tell you what documentation you need to bring.  You can also visit www.FreeTaxCenters.org.

Nearly 31,000 tax returns will be prepared by Neighborhood Tax Centers this year – returning an estimated $40 million to hard working families in the community.  Be one of those to enjoy the benefits of this free service.

Submit your nominations and put your  property in the spotlight.  Don't wait the deadline to submit is Thursday, April 5. For more information about the June 21 event, stay tuned here!  

Did you know, according to the American Heart Association, nearly 300,000 out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrests occur annually, and 80 percent of cardiac arrests occur at home? With alarming statistics like these, it’s important you know how to perform proper and immediate CPR.

Statistics show 70 percent of Americans may feel helpless to act during a cardiac emergency, because they either do not know how to administer CPR or their training has significantly lapsed. Becoming educated in CPR is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your family.

On Saturday, February 11, earn certification in Adult CPR and AED use at the Save a Life Community Heart Training Day 2012. When it comes to saving the life a loved one, this course is priceless. For course information visit: www.houstonsavealife.org.

What: Community Heart Training Day 2012

Date: Saturday, February 11

Time: Choice of two sessions: 8 a.m. - Noon or 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Where: Methodist Training Center at Reliant Park

           8335 Lantern Point Dr., Houston, TX 77054
           (Right off Kirby, near 610 South Loop)
           Free parking available (in the Teal lot)

Cost: $10 per person
 

Mayor Parker Rescinds Stage Two Water Shortage Measures
Water Wise Methods Still Encouraged
 

Houston Mayor Annise Parker and the Public Works and Engineering Department of the City of Houston have lifted the mandatory water conservation measures imposed last summer.  The move follows recent rains and cooler temperatures, which have increased lake levels in all three drinking water reservoirs. As the City continues to experience severe drought conditions, a special thanks to Houston residents for all of your efforts to date and please continue voluntary water conservation.

According to the National Weather Service, the Houston area remains in severe to exceptional drought.  Coupled with long term predictions, it is clearly possible that Houston may experience an even more challenging summer this year than last.  While surface water storage has recovered to an extent, it is unlikely that the City will have as much storage at the start of summer this year as we had last year, leading to a likeliness that conservation measures will need to be reinstated.  In the meantime, all water customers are strongly encouraged to practice and further develop water conservation efforts.

The following tips can also help our customers be good water stewards during one of the most severe droughts in Texas history.

Ways to use water wisely:

 

•     Keep showers under five minutes. Water saved: 2 to 5 gallons per minute
•     Remember to turn water off while brushing your teeth
•     Wash only full loads of dishes or clothes
•     Replace older model showerheads and faucet aerators with new low-flow models and install low water use toilets
•     Inspect toilets for silent leaks by putting food coloring in the toilet tank. If colored water leaks into the toilet bowl before flushing water is being lost due to a worn flapper
•     Refrain from washing any vehicle or motorbike unless the dirt poses a driving hazard
•     Refrain from washing down any sidewalk, walkway, driveway, parking lot or any other hard-surfaced area
•     Refrain from filling, refilling or adding water to any indoor or outdoor swimming pool, spa or whirlpool

The Public Works and Engineering Department website http://www.publicworks.houstontx.gov/index.html offers valuable information to encourage residents to use water wisely, which will reduce the large demand on our water system. Using water wisely can not only save water, but also reduce water bills.  For more information visit http://www.publicworks.houstontx.gov/utilities/conservation.html.

Please check out our tips and tips from the Harris County Sheriff's office here.

Check out this article from the Texas Apartment Association regarding this issue (requires log in).

Also, remember that drop boxes are provided at some properties as a courtesy, but should be used at your own risk.  The best ways to pay rent are still in person during business hours (when a receipt may be obtained from an on-site employee), or online. 

Deck the Halls - Resident Recognition     

The holiday season is full of joy, happiness and a time to celebrate with our loved ones. Many thanks to the managers who nominated residents for their communities.  A family at the North Park Apartments managed by Richfield Investments had their apartment home decorated with a fully decorated Christmas tree, wreath for the door, dining table decorated with all the trimmings, gifts under the tree and a holiday dinner.  This was generously sponsored by Purdy Designs, The Great Outdoors, ABC Apartment Solutions, Perfect Surface, Pro-Tractor Services, Valet Waste and Criterion Brock  

Houston Food Bank Food Drive     

The Houston Apartment Association and its member companies and residents have once again helped many families and pets have a better holiday.  The food drive for people and pets was a huge success.  CAMP Construction and Cotton Commercial were drop off sites and well as repacking sites for the food donations.  Food was donated to the  The Houston Food Bank.  and an organization called the Rescue Bank, which is a pet food distribution center for rescues around the city.   For more information about this group, visit their site at Rescue Bank.  Many thanks to all the properties, volunteers and residents who donated for the cause.   

Happy Holidays to all our wonderful members and their families. 

HAA/NAA members, take action before Nov. 28 to share your comments regarding federal pool safety regulations.

NAA/NMHC are conducting a survey to help inform comments we will submit to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on its vote to change federal pool safety regulations in ways that would impose additional compliance obligations on apartment firms.

Member firms that operate pools on their property are strongly encouraged to complete this short survey by the November 28 deadline.

The survey is in response to a September 28 CPSC vote to revoke a prior “interpretive rule” defining unblockable pool drains. By revoking this interpretation, pool operators who followed this guidance, i.e., placed a compliant cover over a smaller blockable drain, may now be deemed non-compliant with federal regulations. Pools with multiple drains are not affected by this decision.

Click here to take the survey.

Attention Owners and Operators of Federally-assisted Affordable Housing:
In 2009, the Obama Administration started a program called the SAVE Award (Securing Americans Value and Efficiency) giving frontline federal employees the opportunity to share their ideas about making the federal government more efficient and effective.  

One of the top four 2011 finalists has an idea that could be very beneficial to owners and operators of subsidized apartment communities.  Eileen Hearty of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposes to reduce the number of Management and Occupancy Reviews (MORs) of multifamily properties that are privately owned and subsidized by HUD.

Because many of these properties consistently receive excellent scores on their MORs, she specifically proposes a reduction in the frequency of reviews for high-performing properties.  This would reward superior properties and reduce HUD expenses.  

To vote in favor of this proposal and learn more about all of the finalists for the SAVE Award, click here.  
Voting remains open until noon on Thursday, Nov. 17.

Voting is open to everyone (friends, family, etc.), so if you would like to encourage others to vote in favor of this proposal, forward this information or share the voting link.

 

Program Aims to Increase Recycling in Apartment Communities

Houston (Nov. 15, 2011) – Today, the Houston Apartment Association (HAA) and the City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) launched the Go Green Community initiative to increase   recycling in apartment communities. The City of Houston also proclaimed Nov. 15 as Houston Recycles Day, which coincides with Texas Recycles Day and America Recycles Day.

With approximately 2,000 apartment communities in Houston city limits, HAA and SWMD hope to see 50 percent of those properties establish recycling programs by 2013. Many apartment communities already have adopted recycling programs and the Go Green Community initiative will recognize those efforts. Participating communities will be listed on the City of Houston and Houston Apartment Association web pages as Go Green Communities. They also will be eligible for a Go Green Community certificate to let their residents and others know of their efforts to create a cleaner, greener Houston.

“By its very nature, apartment living is a cleaner, greener option for Houstonians,” said HAA President Kim Small. “Apartment residents generally live in smaller homes and use less energy and resources than single-family home dwellers. As an association, we want to take our green initiatives one step further and to encourage on-site recycling to create even more environmentally friendly communities,” she said.

“HAA and its members are commended for their leadership and stewardship on this key issue,” said Harry Hayes, Solid Waste Management Department Director. “Every Houstonian should be able to recycle easily, thereby preserving valuable landfill airspace.”

“Mayor Annise Parker knows Houstonians are interested in transforming their communities to a greener place to live and work, and expanding recycling is at the top of the list,” said Laura Spanjian, Sustainability Director, City of Houston. “The new avenues and partnerships being developed to expand our environmental efforts are more tools to help the City of Houston reduce its carbon footprint as well as decrease waste. The partnership with HAA to create a Go Green Community is a significant milestone in reaching beyond our traditional scope to offer recycling services.”

Communities interested in joining can visit HAA’s website at www.haaonline.org/Recycling to obtain information regarding Best Management Practices (BMPs) that will assist in creating, implementing and maintaining their recycling programs and to register as Go Green Communities.

###

About the Solid Waste Management Department:The Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD) provides solid waste services to the citizens of Houston through the collection, disposal and recycling of discarded material in a manner that is safe, efficient, environmentally sound and cost-effective.

About the Houston Apartment Association:The Houston Apartment Association is a professional trade association that serves individuals and businesses involved in the ownership, construction, management, maintenance and operation of apartments and other rental dwellings in the Houston area. See www.haaonline.org for more information.
 

If you are interested in getting involved with HAABGF, contact govaffairs@haaonline.org.  Our next HAABGF meeting is on Nov. 15 at HAA.  For details, contact aarrington@haaonline.org. 

Congrats to our big winners from Saturday's Chili Cookoff!

1st Place Chili - Century A/C
2nd Place Chili - Cotton Commercial/Maintenance Supply Headquarters
3rd Place Chili - Presto Maintenance Supply
4th Place Chili - WaterLogic/The Lynd Company

1st Place Single Booth - Francis Property Management
2nd Place Single Booth - Riverstone Residential
3rd Place Single Booth - DirecSupply/SMI Realty

1st Place Double Booth - Rockwell Management/Crestmark Construction
2nd Place Double Booth - Greystar/Camp Construction Services
3rd Place Double Booth - Mosaic Residential/FSI Construction

A big thank you to all of our sponsors, exhibitors and attendees for making our 21st year the best yet! We'll see you next October for another spooktacular time!

 HAA President Kim Small accepted the award from TAA President Jeff Lowry at the board meeting on Friday, October 21, 2011.  Thanks for all of your hard work to help others, HAA members! 

Do you want to intern at HAA?  We have four great opportunities coming up in 2012.

 Public Affairs Internship - This internship is offered for Spring, Summer and Winter semesters in 2012.  This internship is with our Public Affairs Department and focuses on media relations, community partnerships and government affairs activities. Students best suited to this internship include those studying: Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Pre-Law and Political Science. This internship is PAID.
 

 Communications Internship - This internship is offered for Summer semester 2012.  This internship is with our Communications Department focusing on conducting interviews, writing articles and taking photos for our monthly magazine, ABODE.  Students best suited to this internship include those studying: Communications, Photography and Journalism. This internship is UNPAID.
 

 Special Events and Member Services Internship - This internship is offered for Spring, Summer and Winter semesters in 2012.  This intern works with both our Member Services Department and Education and Meetings Department focusing on member intake, committee management and helping to produce our fabulous annual events.  Students best suited to  this internship include those studying: Marketing, Organizational Leadership, Higher Education, Management, Public Relations and Business.  This internship is UNPAID.

 Resident Relations Internship - This internship is offered for Spring, Summer and Winter semesters in 2012.  This intern works with our Resident Relations Department focusing on assisting residents in the process of making complaints or finding answers regarding their rights as renters.  Students best suited to this internship include those studying: Social Work, Psychology, and Pre-Law. This internship is UNPAID.

Contact us if you fit the bill or pass these on to someone else who does!  The contact information for each internship may be found in the description.

The member reports that the covers cost owners a couple hundred dollars each, but thieves probably get much less for them, if they are selling the iron for scrap metal at a salvage yard.  

On-site personnel should keep an eye out for suspicious activity around the drain covers. 

If you experience a drain cover theft, please report it to your local police or constable's office.

Get out to the polls to voice your support for our HAABGF endorsed candidates for local offices and statewide propositions (see the article starting on page 44 of the October edition of ABODE magazine). 

Click on the county name below to find out where and when you can early vote!

Austin County 

Brazoria County 

Chambers County 

Colorado County (click on view attachment) 

Fort Bend County  

Harris County  

Liberty County 

Matagorda County 

Montgomery County 

San Jacinto County 

Waller County  

Wharton County  

If you have any questions about HAA's government affairs activities, please contact the Public Affairs Department.

HAABGF Endorsed Candidates List  - You can take this list with you to vote!

 
Mayor – Annise Parker
Controller – Ronald Green
District A – Brenda Stardig
District C – Brian Cweren (HAA Member and HAABGF Member)
District D – Wanda Adams
District E – Mike Sullivan
District F – Al Hoang
District G – Oliver Pennington
District H – Ed Gonzalez
District I – James Rodriguez
District J – Mike Laster
District K – Larry Green
At Large 1 – Stephen “Steve” Costello
At Large 3 – Melissa Noriega
At Large 4 – C. O. Bradford

 
For more information on the HAABGF and the candidates, check out the October edition of ABODE magazine.
HAA membership dues never fund political contributions. 

 
Important Upcoming Dates:
Oct. 11 – Last Day to Register to vote
Oct. 24 – First Day of Early Voting
Nov. 1 – Last Day to Apply for a Mail-In Ballot
Nov. 4 – Last Day of Early Voting
Nov. 8 – Election Day!

For early voting information in all of HAA's 12 counties, visit this link!

• If at all possible, pay your rent in person during business hours and obtain a receipt.
• Pay rent online, if your community offers that option.
• If you must drop your rent check off after hours, wait as long as you can to do so (i.e. wait until the morning, instead of dropping it in overnight - to reduce the amount of time that your check is sitting in the drop box).  Also, remember that you do so at your own risk.
• Use a check, instead of a money order (or use a money order issued DIRECTLY BY A BANK), as a bank may be more likely to prosecute fraud.

We recommend the following tips to MANAGERS:

 

• Alert residents to potential risks of using money orders and drop boxes.
• Install a piece of metal inside your drop box to make the opening as narrow as possible (making it more difficult to "fish" out items).
• Utilize a drum style drop box (like US Postal Service mail boxes).
• Post a notice in your leasing office window that states "All monies are taken to the bank nightly."
   

Also, check out these tips from Harris County Sherrif's Office Financial Crimes Unit.

This gave us the great opportunity to share with City Council the law that took effect last year requiring owners to install smoke detectors with special signals for the hearing impaired upon request of a renter. In January 2010, the Texas Property Code was changed to require owners to install such a smoke detector at their expense, if requested by the renter.

Here is what the law says:

Texas Property Code  

  Section 92.254 - SMOKE DETECTOR
a. A smoke detector must be:
1.    designed to detect both the visible and invisible products of combustion;
2.    designed with an alarm audible to a person in the bedrooms it serves;
3.    powered by battery, alternating current, or other power source as required by local ordinance;
4.    tested and listed for use as a smoke detector by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Factory Mutual Research Corporation, or United States Testing Company, Inc.; and
5.    in good working order.
a-1. If requested by a tenant as an accommodation for a person with a hearing-impairment disability or as required by law as a reasonable accommodation for a person with a hearing-impairment disability, a smoke detector must, in addition to complying with Subsection (a), be capable of alerting a hearing-impaired person in the bedrooms it serves.
b. The power system and installation procedure of a security device that is electrically operated rather than battery operated must comply with applicable local ordinances.

 

We always recommend that residents put requests in writing!

 Don't forget, a new change to the City of Houston Fire Code also requires that smoke detectors (single station, battery operated) be installed in every bedroom of all apartments in Houston by December 31, 2011.  Some properties must also retrofit with pull-station fire alarms over the next few years, depending on the age, size and configuration of the property.

 If you are an HAA member and have a question about a law or legislative issue, please do not hesitate to contact our Government Affairs team at govaffairs@haaonline.org. 

As you may know, a new law took effect in January 2010, which disallows electricity disconnections by landlords, except for when making bona fide repairs.   

 Here is what the Texas Property Code now says about interruption of electric and other utilities:

Section 92.008 - INTERRUPTION OF UTILITIES  

1. A landlord or a landlord's agent may not interrupt or cause the interruption of utility service paid for directly to the utility company by a tenant unless the interruption results from bona fide repairs, construction, or an emergency. 
2. A landlord may not interrupt or cause the interruption of water, wastewater, gas, or electric service furnished to a tenant by the landlord as an incident of the tenancy or by other agreement unless the interruption results from bona fide repairs, construction, or an emergency. 
3. If a landlord or a landlord's agent violates this section, the tenant may: 
1. either recover possession of the premises or terminate the lease; and 
2. recover from the landlord an amount equal to the sum of the tenant's actual damages, one month's rent or $500, whichever is greater, reasonable attorney's fees, and court costs, less any delinquent rents or other sums for which the tenant is liable to the landlord. 
4. A provision of a lease that purports to waive a right or to exempt a party from a liability or duty under this section is void. 

Because electricity cut-offs were widely used as a means of collecting owed rent and utility bills, this has been a major change for the operations of some apartment communities.  If you have any questions about this or any other laws or legislative issues, please do not hesitate to contact govaffairs@haaonline.org. For more information on State Laws, visit www.taa.org to view the Redbook Online (subscription required).

The Houston Apartment Association has a “Heat Safety” resource page for managers and renters at www.SafeInMyPlace.com.  We also have great tips on air conditioning tips and issues in a previous blog post. 

Please feel free to share the tips and information with your residents and colleagues.

Jeff is one of our 2011 Industry Achievement Award managers of the year -- learn more about him and our other Industry Achievement Award winners in the August ABODE magazine.

Hot days and warm nights mean that air conditioning units are working overtime at homes and businesses.

Here at HAA we get hundreds of calls and complaints every summer regarding air conditioning malfunctions and outages. 

The following are a few tips to better understanding your apartment's A/C service:

• Most A/C units are not installed to provide an atmosphere more than 20 degrees cooler inside than it is outside.  That means that on a 105 degree day, your A/C unit may not be intended to cool your apartment lower than 85 degrees. 
• Most A/C problems are not considered an emergency under most lease contracts.  Thus, if your A/C breaks on the weekend or after hours, you may have to wait until the next business day to report it.  *Always report your requests for repair in writing (most lease contracts require that, but check your own lease to be certain).* 
• Apartment communities are expected to address your requests for repairs in a reasonable time frame, unless the problem causes a danger to residents.  Usually, that means a few days for a minor repair or could take longer if special equipment, parts or technical expertise is required.

Tips for keeping your cool:

• Keep the windows, blinds and any draperies closed, especially during the hottest times of the day.  This will help block out the heat and keep your cool air inside.
• Keep the A/C running during the day (even if it is at a high temperature), so that your A/C doesn't have to work so hard to bring the temperature back down.  It is more efficient and more comfortable to keep it in the mid-80s than to try and bring down the temperature in an apartment that has been exposed to 100+ degree heat all day (even your couches and clothing can retain the heat for hours).
• If you have a programmable thermostat learn how to use it.  Using system settings during the day can help your air conditioning to work more efficiently.  
• Change your filters regularly.  A dirty filter can keep your A/C from working correctly.  Check with your office, they may be able to help you out with filters.
• Don't obstruct the air intake vent - don't put your couch in front of it or hang a picture over it.  Blocking your intake vent can keep your A/C from running properly. 
• Know the danger signs associated with heat related illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.  Check out the tips at Safe In My Place.
• Check out this video with tips on adjusting airflow for your A/C from award winning Maintenance Man, Steve Whatley.

If you are a resident and would like to file a complaint or find answers to questions about renting, visit our Residents' Resource web pages. 

Resources for Managers:

• Check out the Houston Apartment Association's Safe In My Place site for downloadable tip sheets and resources to share with your residents.
• Visit the Texas Apartment Association site for information on the Neighbors' Care program and links to helpful Redbook articles.

Our thanks go to HAA member Michelle Bridges-Pahl at Century A/C Supply for helping us out with some of the tips listed above!  

 NAA/NMHC Legislative Alert

Urge Congress to Oppose a Carried Interest Tax Hike in Debt Limit Negotiations 

 
Lawmakers are racing towards an August 2 deadline to raise the nation’s $14.3 trillion debt limit while at the same time enacting fiscal reforms to address the federal debt crisis.  The Administration and some in Congress are advocating for the inclusion of tax increases in the final package of reforms, including an increase in the taxation of a carried interest.  As you know, the use of a carried interest is a long-standing financing model that rewards entrepreneurs who take on significant risks in developing or rehabilitating apartment communities. 

 
However, if enacted, this tax increase on a carried interest could be potentially devastating for the apartment industry.

 
NAA/NMHC are working to ensure that the importance of the multifamily industry is front and center and that policymakers understand the devastating impact that any modification to the tax treatment of carried interest would have. 

 

On July 8th NAA/NMHC joined with other real estate organizations and sent a letter to Congress explaining that increasing the tax on carried interest will hurt entrepreneurship, investment in communities and job creation in commercial real estate.  

 
Now we need YOU to send your own letter to your members of Congress to reinforce this message.  
When you click the Take Action button below, you will find a draft letter to send to your Senators and Representatives.  You are encouraged to personalize this letter with information about your business, units under management, etc.  A fact sheet with additional information on this issue is available here.  

 
Your help is critical to our efforts to stop this potentially devastating proposal!
 
Click here to Take Action Now! 

 
Thank you in advance for taking a few minutes to reach out to your member of Congress on this issue.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Greg Brown, NAA’s Vice President of Government Affairs, at greg@naahq.org or 703-797-0615.

If you have not created a profile at www.naahq.com, you may need to to access the my communities section to take action on this and other alerts!

The following is the information that HAA put together following the news story on the access gate. Check the HAA website and particularly this blog for guidance on other issues in the news.

 
Tips for renters regarding access gates:
 
•    Never allow children to play on or around access gates.  Access gates are large pieces of machinery and do not detect danger.
•    Every vehicle should utilize their own access code or activate the gate with their own remote.  Never tailgate another vehicle (most gates are not equipped with sensors and are programmed to close after the time that it should take for one vehicle to enter the gate).
•    If you are a pedestrian, do not use vehicular access gates, if a pedestrian gate is available nearby.  
•    If you suspect that your access gate is malfunctioning, notify your property manager immediately.  All properties in Texas are required to have an emergency maintenance number posted near the entrance to the leasing office.  Also, you will want to put all requests for repairs in writing and give it to management.
•    Residents should keep entry codes and remote controls in their possession and not share them with guests.  
 
Further background:

What the Houston Fire Department manual for apartment operators says about access gates:
“Access Control Gates and Key Boxes:  
All access control gates and key boxes comply with all permitting and operational requirements.  It is unlawful to erect, construct, build, or cause to be erected, constructed, or build any fence, gate or obstruction to vehicular traffic upon any private street or driveway, unless written approval for its erection is received from the Fire Marshal’s Office, after finding that it will not interfere with access emergency vehicles.
 
The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times, or secured in the open position. Repairs shall be in accordance with original specifications and approvals.
All New and Existing Access Control Gates shall have written approval from the Fire Marshal’s Office please refer to Standards: Access Control Gates and Fire Department Access on www.houstontx.gov to make sure your property is in compliance.”

Visit the Houston Apartment Association Fire Safety and Inspections Resource Page for a downloadable version of HFD's Manual and other Fire Safety related information.

HAA: How long have you been involved in HAA?
Nunn: I have been involved with HAA for about 10 months now.

HAA: What or who encouraged you to get involved with the Membership Campaign as a recruiter?
Nunn: Several people, Izzy with Glidden Professional and Nancy Evans with Francis Property Management, Dean and Laura Lestus with the Liberty Group. I also felt this was a great opportunity to become more involved and get to know more people within the HAA. 

    
HAA: How did you recruit new members? Are there any tips you have for new recruiters or things that you shared with potential members to hook them? Do you have any lessons learned to share?

Nunn: I simply told them that I had an opportunity of a lifetime for them and it would only cost them $475.00 for the year. I explained all of the many benefits that being a member had to offer. I also told them that this was a competition we were having and I needed them to sign up so my team could have a chance at winning first place.

 
HAA: Was recruiting beneficial for your business?  If so, explain new relationships or sales you are making as a result.
Nunn: Having a share in the HAA is always beneficial to your company. I feel that before you can be successful, you have to show that you want more than just their business, you want their friendship.

 

HAA: Did you win anything this year?  If so, do you have any special plans for your winnings?

Nunn: I did win $500.00…I plan on wasting it on something I really don’t need, I’m sure.
 
HAA: How many people did you recruit?

Nunn: I only was able to recruit 1 new member and 4 renewals, but next year…I’m going to be a recruiting machine.
 
HAA: What would you say to someone new to HAA?  How would you encourage them to get involved?

Nunn: I would tell a new member that it’s very important to get involved as quickly as possible. I would let them know the events that have proven to be successful for me and encourage them to be as active as possible.
 
HAA: Is there anything else you would like to share that I haven’t asked you about?

Nunn: I would like to say thank you to the Francis team.

Did you know that HAA recruited 150 new members and renewed 143 (as of July 1)?

 
If you want to get involved in recruitment, simply go to the HAA website to find information about the association and the members we represent.  Here is a link to information about HAA.  Recruiters can  download an application from this page  or direct the prospect to the online application.

 
The deadline for the 2012 Directory is September 30 (so new members will want to join in time to get in on the 2012 Directory!).  We have our final membership meeting Wednesday, September 21, 4 – 6 p.m. with some final cash prizes at this meeting.

Property Manager Veronica Mier will be accepting this award on behalf of Venterra Realty Management Company for Sandstone apartments.  

“I am extremely honored that Sandstone is being chosen for this award.  When you’re involved in a rehab, you are focusing all of your energy on the process and in making sure that every corner is covered.  Our goal in the end was to have a beautiful community that will make a difference in the lives of our residents as well as our Pasadena community.  The finished product was our reward.  The Beautification Award from the Chamber is the icing on the cake.”    

Veronica’s tireless efforts in enhancing the overall appearance of the Sandstone apartment community and the Pasadena community as a whole helped to achieve this great honor.  The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce will be presenting the Beautification Award for Renovation of the Month to Sandstone on July 6, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. at Sandstone’s leasing office. Veronica and her staff will receive a plaque and recognition in the Chamber of Commerce newsletter for their hard work and diligent efforts in keeping Pasadena beautiful.   

Sandstone Apartments, located at 4201 Fairmont Parkway, is professionally managed by Venterra Realty.  Built in 1979, Sandstone has been a place for Pasadena denizens to call home for over 30 years.  Venterra acquired Sandstone in 2003 and began an exterior rehab rather recently which brought the community up to today’s standards and breathed new life into this community.  The maintenance staff does an excellent job of maintaining the property, which is vital to the success and longevity of the community.  Sandstone has been a member of the Chamber for seven years and continuously provides superior customer service and an exceptional living experience to its residents.  

Leasing Consultant 

April Toman 

Old Farm Apts 

2500 Old Farm Rd 

Houston, TX 77063-4430 

Riverstone Residential 

Maintenance Technician 

Marlon Castro 

Ashley House Apts 

3903 S Mason Rd 

Katy, TX 77450-5477 

Mosaic Residential 

Assistant On-site Manager  

Amanda Montgomery, CAM 

The Bellagio Apts 

15000 Phillipine 

Houston, TX 77040 

Francis Property Management 

On-site Manager  

(1-150 units) 

Malissa Alvarado, CAM 

The Waterchase Apts 

15100 Golden Eagle 

Humble, TX 77396-2200 

Rockstar Capital Management 

On-site Manager 

 (151-349 units) 

Susan Wells 

The Augusta Apts 

12655 Kuykendahl Rd 

Houston, TX 77090-6931 

Francis Property Management 

On-site Manager  

(350 units or more) 

Jeffrey Peloquin 

Verde Nothpointe Apts 

11743 Northpointe Blvd 

Tomball, TX 77377-5574 

Verde Apartment Communities 

Maintenance Supervisor 

 (Single property) 

Daniel (Danny) Alicea 

The Lakeview Lofts Apts 

17827 Lakecrest View Dr 

Cypress, TX 77433 

Asset Plus Corp 

Maintenance Supervisor 

 (Multiple properties)  

Don Reitmeier

Orion Real Estate Services  

1455 W Loop South #800 

Houston, TX 77027 

Marketing/Training Director 

Stephanie Graves, CAPS 

Asset Plus Corp 

5151 San Felipe #2050 

Houston, TX 77056-3727 

Administrative Support 

Audrey Nardecchia 

Asset Plus Corp 

5151 San Felipe #2050 

Houston, TX 77056-3727 

Accounting Manager  

Julie Clay 

Asset Plus Corp 

5151 San Felipe #2050 

Houston, TX 77056-3727 

Human Resources Director  

La Rue Lane 

Concierge Management Services 

6919 Portwest #160 

Houston, TX 77024 

Supplier  

Kevin Fenn,CAS  

Pavecon 

9900 Windfern 

Houston, TX 77064 

Portfolio Supervisor 

Barby Lake, CAPS 

Westdale Asset Management 

2502 Westerland Dr. #359 

Houston, TX 77063 

Independent Owner 

N/A this year   

Owner/Management Executive 

Kim Small, CAPS 

MORGAN 

5606 S Rice Ave 

Houston, TX 77081-2118 

Go-Getter of the Year 

Claude Arnold 

The Dinerstein Companies 

3411 Richmond #200 

Houston, TX 77046 

Maintenance Supervisor (Single Property)

Mario Aguilar
Hidden Lake Apts
Milestone Mgmt

Daniel "Danny" Alicea
The Lakeview Lofts Apts
Asset Plus Corp

Juan Alvarado
The Aberdeen
Concierge Mgmt

Saul Badillo
The Bel Air Apts
MORGAN

Alfonso Cabrera
Carrington Place Apts
Davis Development

Anthony "Tony" Hernandez
Alexan Silber Apts
Greystar

Larry Hickey
The Biarritz Apts
Greystar

Gary Hudson
2121 Mid Lane Apts
MORGAN

Martin Leal
Riverbend Apts
Concierge Mgmt

Obed Lopez
Fallbrook Ranch Apts
Hettig Mgmt

Reynaldo Marfil
Archstone Memorial Heights Apts
Archstone

Miguel Marquez
Lakeview Apts
Greystone Asset Mgmt

Manuel Medrano, CAMT
Bellagio Apts
Francis Property Mgmt

Robert Marquez
Abbey at Eldridge
Abbey Residential

Alfredo Melendres
The Charleston Apts
Orion Real Estate

Guillermo Melgar
Tanglewood at Voss Apts
Greystar

Gerardo Pedraza
The Park at Voss Apts
BH Mgmt

Oliver Perez
Cornerstone Ranch Apts
Mosaic Residential

Javier Quinteros
The Abbey at Briargrove Park Apts
Abbey Residential Services

Stephen Rodriguez
Montecito Apts
Lincoln Property Co

Arnold Sanchez
Royal Pines Apts
BH Mgmt

Victor Silva
Retreat of Clear Lake Apts
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Frank Zavala
Waterchase Apts
Rockstar Capital Mgmt

Maintenance Supervisor  (Multiple properties)

Rafael Barazza
American Campus Communities

Mitchell Cotlas
Berkshire Property Advisors

William (Billy) Deas
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Alejandro Mercado
Judwin

Don Reitmeier
Orion Real Estate

Maintenance Technician

Luis Castellanos
Waterford Place At Riata Ranch Apts
Davis Development

Marlon Castro
Ashley House Apts
Mosaic Residential

Ramon Dimas
Fountains of Almeda Apts
Michael Stevens Interests

Alejandro Ponce

Piedmont Apts

Orion Real Estate

 

 Carlos Trejo
Aberdeen Apts
Concierge Mgmt

Santiago Valdez
Mansions of Shadowbriar Apts
Mosaic Residential

Leasing Consultant

Gabriella Barrera
Carrington at Green Trails
Davis Development

Harvey Caballero
Alexan Silber
Greystar

Ashley Chavez
Madison Park of Westchase
Guardian Equity

Apple Comunale
2121 Mid Lane Apts
MORGAN

Misty Dozier
Vizcaya Apts
Asset Plus Corp

Patty Hatton
3333 Weslayan Apts
MORGAN

Bryon Herrera
Silver Springs Apts
HM Equity Mgmt

Alexena "Max" Kech
Retreat at CityPark Apts
Orion Real Estate

Francis Leon-Campos
Mirabelle at the Galleria Apts
Mosaic Residential

Amelia Nolasco
Spring Lake Apts
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Monica Perez
Oaks of Charles Apts
Michael Stevens Interests

Lyndsi Sanchez
2121 Mid Lane Apts
MORGAN

Meagan Shumate
36 Sixty Richmond Apts
MORGAN

Jordan Sneed, NALP, CAM
Celebration at Westchase
BH Mgmt

April Toman
Old Farm Apts
Riverstone Residential

Amber Tyler
Old Farm Apts
Riverstone Residential

David Valdez
Promenade Hermann Park Apts
Asset Plus Corp

Stephanie Yonan
Verde Northpointe Apts
Verde Apartment Communities

Assistant On-Site Manager

Stacy Carraro
2121 Mid Lane Apts
MORGAN

Rachel Craddock
Stonewood Apts
Greystar

John Dang
Enclave at Woodbridge
Concierge Mgmt

Stephanie Fuentes
Meyerland Court Apts
MORGAN

Elizabeth Gonzalez
3333 Weslayan
MORGAN

Rebecca Gonzales
Quail Chase Apts
Orion Real Estate

Rhonda Jackson
Lakeview Apts
Greystone Asset Mgmt

Skylar Kee
Brandon Oaks
Milestone Mgmt

Angela Mason
Sugar Creek Apts
Orion Real Estate

Amanda Montgomery, CAM
Bellagio Apts
Francis Property Mgmt

Maria Moreno
Sharpstown Park & Morgan Manor
MORGAN

Ruz Muhammed
Alexan Silber Apts
Greystar

Jennifer Payne
Halstead Apts
Greystar

Michelle Rojas
Bay Meadows Apts
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Tania Vanessa Romero, CAM
Archstone Memorial Heights
Archstone

Victoria Stanley
The Core Apts
MORGAN

Kristen Suess
3000 Sage Apts
MORGAN

Heather White
Carrington Place Shadow Creek Ranch
Davis Development

 
On-Site Manager (350 units or more)

John Berzanski
Trails of Ashford
Bayshore Properties

Tammie Garcia, CAM
Turtle Pointe Apts
WRH Realty Services

Miriam Gamboa
Briarwest Apts
Greystar

Araceli Gil
Walden Pond/The Gables
Berkshire Property Advisors

Cynthia Gregg
The Bel Air Apts
MORGAN

Christina Jennifer Harris
Palazzo at Cypresswood Apts
Riverstone Residential

Dina Hooper
The Abbey at Eldridge Apts
Abbey Residential

Shelly Judd
Woodway Square Apts
Lincoln Property Co

Sandy Lekas
Beverly Palms Apts
Hawthorne Residential Partners

Christi Lindauer
The Core Apts
MORGAN

 

Jeffrey Peloquin, CAM           
Verde Northpointe            
Verde Apartment Communities            
            
Renee' Renobato, CAM, CAPS           
Archstone Memorial Heights            
Archstone             
            
Richard Wall            
The Aberdeen            
Concierge Asset Mgmt            
            
      

On-Site Manager  (151-349 units)

Amanda Adams
Silverbrooke Apts
Greystar

Maria Ayala
Briarwood Village Apts
Berkshire Property Advisors

Jeremy Bell
Parque Del Oro Apts
Lincoln Property Co

Monica Bonilla
Ashley House Apt
Mosaic Residential

Kay Brunson
The Inverness Apts
Greystar

Yolanda Burks
Enclave at Woodbridge Apts
Concierge Mgmt

Stephanie Burriss
Promenade Memorial Apts
Asset Plus Corp

LeAnn Carrasco
Milagro Plaza Apts
Asset Plus Corp
 

Chalaine Curry
Oak Park Trails Apts
Judwin

Rhonda Daniels
North Bend Apts
Westdale Asset Mgmt

Angela Dunlap
The Vinings Apts
Greystar

Margie Fielder
2121 Mid Lane Apts
MORGAN

Bonnie Garcia
Oak Run Manor
Pinnacle

Carolyn Jackson, CAM
Westchase Apts
Archstone

Kimberly Lopez
Sebring Apts
HM Equity Mgmt

Danny Martin
Mill Creek Apts
Asset Plus Corp

Chelsey Meneses
Villas at Valley Ranch
Asset Plus Corp

Jennifer Miller, CAM, CAPS
3000 Sage Apts
MORGAN

Patti Milne, CAM
Woodglen Village Apts
Asset Plus Corp

Brice Navarro
Retreat at City Park Apts
Orion Real Estate

Carla Perez
The Palms of Lake Jackson Apts
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Erika Pierce
Forest Pointe Apts
Celtic Realty Advisors

Theresa Platz
Lakeview Apts
Greystone Asset Mgmt

Nancy Richardson
Mirabella at the Galleria
Mosaic Residential

Robyn Riggins
Cimarron Parkway Apts
Milestone Mgmt

Karen Riley
Mansions of Shadowbriar Apts
Mosaic Residential

Shanna Rogers, CAM
Villas at Huffmeister Apts
Davis Development

Anna Towns, CAM
Vizcaya Apts
Asset Plus Corp

Susan Wells
The Augusta Apts
Francis Property Mgmt

 

Monique Zamora

Lafayette Village Apts

Orion Real Estate

 

On-Site Manager (1-150 units)

Malissa Alvarado, CAM
Waterchase Apts
Rockstar Capital Mgmt

Rita Greif
WestBrook Apts
Capstone Real Estate

Jeanette Gonzales
Carlton House Apts
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Lida Marcela Herrera
Oak Falls Condominiums
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Tiffany Rose
Fountains at Memorial City Apts
Lincoln Property Co.

Melissa Watts
Bay Meadows Apts
Oak Leaf Mgmt

 
Adminstrative Support

Blanca Anderson
Asset Plus Corp

Brenda Martinez
HM Equity Mgmt

Audrey Nardecchia, CAM
Asset Plus Corp

Director of Marketing/Training

Shannon Crumpler, CAM
Greystar

Stephanie Graves, CAPS
Asset Plus Corp

Carlos Torres
Riverstone Residential

 

Accounting Manager

Julie Clay
Asset Plus Corp

Scott Vance
Concierge Mgmt Services

Human Resources Director

Aleta Corvelli
Orion Real Estate

LaRue Lane
Concierge Mgmt Services

Tina Nowocin
Mosaic Residential

Ileana Sepulveda
Southhampton Mgmt

Portfolio Supervisor

Robert Barton
Central Mgmt

Gina Bowie, CAPS
Asset Plus Corp

Jill Bounds
Abbey Residential

Debra Buck
CWS Apt Homes

Veronica Costello
HM Equity Mgmt

Debbie DeRoche
Milestone Mgmt

Dana Dovell
Capstone Real Estate

Jana Gragg
Landmark Real Estate

Clark Gregg, NALP, CAPS
MORGAN

Paula Hayes
Asset Plus Corp

Joanne Hermann, CAPS
Asset Plus Corp

Marcy Holmes
Mosaic Residential

Marsha Hollis
MORGAN

Nina Kirtley
Ascension Commercial Real Estate

Barby Lake, CAPS
Westdale Asset Mgmt

Georgeanne Longoria, CAPS
Hettig Mgmt

Michelle Lowe
Orion Real Estate

Dinah Rettig
Lincoln Property Co

Christy Rodriguez
Concierge Mgmt

Grace Rojas
Davis Development

Robin Sample
Hettig Mgmt

Stacy Sapio
Asset Plus Corp

Rebecca Shirley, CAPS
Greystar

Natalie Spratt, CAM
Asset Plus Corp

Rosa Torres, CAM
Oak Leaf Mgmt

Quintina Smith Willis, CAM
BH Mgmt

Irene Winebarger
Riverstone Residential

Michelle Woodard
Francis Property Mgmt

Supplier
Patrick Brothers, CAS
Century Air Conditioning

MJ Featherston
Corestone Paving & Construction

Brian Febbo
Hamilton-Steele

Kevin Fenn, CAS
Pavecon

Fernando Garcia
The Liberty Group

Lisa Grimes
D & C Contracting

Jessica Tollett Grizzaffi,CAS
Century A/C Conditioning

Jimmie Hotz, CAS
HD Supply

Garren Kissner
HD Supply

Jacob Kunath CAS
Century A/C Conditioning

Laura Lestus, CAS
The Liberty Group

Dean O'Kelley, CAS
The Liberty Group

Kim MacInnes
NWP

Lisa Morton
Texas Bookkeepers

Beth Rohani, CAS
Ameritex Movers

 

Owner/Management Executive

Diane Gilbert
Greystone Asset Management

Clay Hicks
Greystar

Larry Hill
Sumar Realty

Dick LaMarche
Creative Property Management

 

Robert Martinez

Rockstar Capital Management

Tracie McCaulley
Riverstone Residential Group

Ryan McGrath
Asset Plus Corp

Velissa Parmer
Mosaic Residential

John Ridgway
Celtic Realty Advisors

Kim Small, CAPS
Morgan Group

Come raise your glass to our nominees and find out who our winners are at the Industry Achievement Awards on Wednesday, June 15 at the Intercontinental Hotel (6 - 8:30 p.m.). 

 Don't miss the early bird discount.  If you register by Friday, June 10, you'll save $20 per ticket.

One of the hottest events of the year for HAA suppliers is the Take 5 Business Exchange.  This reverse trade show gives attendees the opportunity to make new connections with some of our top owner/manager members. 

The Business Exchange is a forum where property management company representatives will be seated at tables while supplier representatives will move around the room, selecting the companies they wish to visit.  Each visit has a five minute limit. Supplier companies will donate per representative for this opportunity.  This is a great opportunity for management to learn more about the latest industry-related products and services in a professional, controlled environment and for suppliers to visit with a large number of customers all within a two hour period.

 Are you looking to do business with any of these companies?

Camden

C & F Interests  

Central Management  

Sumar Realty  

Greystone Asset Management  

Hettig Management  

Westdale Asset Management  

Michael Stevens Interests  

UDR  

Milestone Management  

Asset Plus  

SMI Realty  

Greystar  

MORGAN  

Mosaic Residential  

Southhampton Management  

Judwin Properties  

Integrity Asset Management  

Pinnacle  

Harbor Group Management  

Ascension  

Catalyst Property Solutions

Francis Property Management

They have already signed up for the Business Exchange, so you should, too!

We always sell out of slots for this event, so be sure to register as soon as possible.  Visit this page for more details!

We look forward to seeing you on September 13.

 Please visit our Fire Safety and Inspections Resource page to download this handy guide. 

 In it, you will find sample letters for residents and fire safety checklists. 

 This guide is completely FREE!

 We urge HAA members to attend this meeting and share their experiences regarding Fair Housing issues and compliance.You can register by clicking on the name of the event below.

 HOUSTON MULTI-CULTURAL TOWN HALL MEETING  
Event Duration:     June 09 2011 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Event Description:     HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity John Trasvina will host a Mult-Cultural town hall meeting at Texas Southern University’s Jesse H. Jones Auditorium to discuss equity, opportunity and housing discrimination in underserved minority communities in the Houston area. Intended audience: housing industry organizations, members of the community who would have an interest in underserved groups, real estate associations and professionals. Members of the public who have interest in this topic are also welcomed. Please note that registration starts at 9:30 a.m.
Event Location:     Texas Southern University
3100 Cleburne, Room 113
Jesse H. Jones Auditorium
Houston, TX 77004
Phone: (713) 313-7220

For more information visit http://http://em.tsu.edu/map/campusmap.php (campus map)
Contact Info:
Thurman Miles
(817) 978-5870
Thurman.G.Miles@hud.gov

As always, if you have any concerns or questions regarding fair housing, please contact govaffairs@haaonline.org.

Here is more from www.cpsc.gov:

Waterway Plastics Recalls Certain Drain Covers Due to Incorrect Ratings
Covers Pose Possible Entrapment Hazard to Swimmers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

Name of Product: Pool drain covers

Units: About 50,850

Manufacturer: Waterway Plastics, of Oxnard, Calif.

Hazard: The recalled drain covers were incorrectly rated to handle the flow of water through the cover, which could pose a possible entrapment hazard to swimmers and bathers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Description: This recall involves the pool and spa drain covers models listed below. The covers vary in size and shape, but bear model number and manufacturer name molded on the drain cover:

                Model 640-81XX V, 8" Ultra Round
                Model 640-311X, 10" Round
                Model 640-470X V, 9" x 9" Grate and Frame
                Model 640-475X V, 18" x 18" Grate and Frame


Picture of recalled drain covers

Sold through: Independent distributors sell the products nationwide directly to professional builders/installers. The products are not sold directly to consumers.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers who believe they have one of these drain covers in their pool or spa should contact the manufacturer to determine whether a replacement or retrofit is required. Except for kiddie pools, wading pools and in-ground spas, retrofit or replacement of installed covers are not required in pools with multiple drain systems or gravity drainage systems or for covers installed before December 19, 2008.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact the Waterway Plastics toll-free at (866) 719-6044 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the manufacturer's web site at www.waterwayplastics.com

 

For more information on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety act  visit HAA Pool and Spa Drain Resource Page.
 

New Video and Photos Obtained for Southwest Serial Arson Fires

The following information is a result of the ongoing investigation and video footage obtained by the Arson Division (see links to video and photos below) in regards to a string of arson fires in the southwest area of Houston. We ask the help of the media and the people of Houston.
We are interested in a CHEVROLET DUALLY 3500 ( 2 WHEELS EACH SIDE REAR) extended cab pickup truck with a possible dent between the right rear fender and passenger side door. The vehicle has exterior cab lights on the roof. It is an extended cab vehicle. The exact color is undetermined. The model year is believed to be after 2002 . It has standard work rims. The back bumper may have been modified, perhaps a pipe bumper.
We are also interested in a dark color Lexus car around 1997 vintage.
IF YOU KNOW OF A PERSON WHO HAS OWNED OR HAD ACCESS TO THE ABOVE DESCRIBED VEHICLES , PLEASE CALL    713-222 TIPS or the HOUSTON ARSON BUREAU   713-551-2239  OR  713-247-8900.
POSSIBLE SUSPECT DESCRIPTION;
Suspect appears to be a white male under six feet tall with dark hair and a medium to heavy build. The suspect appears to have an unsteady gait at times or a slight limp when walking. Suspect may have had some burns to the face or hands in the recent past.
Video Clip (.MOV) - Suspect & Vehicle
Video Clip (.MOV) - Suspect
Photo (.TIF) - Vehicle Corner
Photo (.TIF) - Vehicle Side  

We encourage apartment industry professionals to share this information with residents, clients and colleagues.  Please help to catch this suspect, so that further loss of property and lives is prevented! 

Darlene Guidry of Hettig Management Corp. has been selected at the newest inductee into HAA's Hall of Fame.

On August 25, Guidry's friends, colleagues and HAA family will gather at the Omni (Riverway) to toast this honor and she will be officially named as a Hall of Famer.

Past Hall of Fame inductees include 22 titans of the apartment industry.  The very first Hall of Fame award was presented in 1984 to Lester Prokop.  The most recent inductee into the Hall of Fame was David Hargrove of Greystone Asset Management in 2009.  The award is not presented every year, but only when a candidate is deemed worthy enough for such an honor. 

Three HAA supplier members have been awarded Lifetime Acheivement Awards for their contributions to the association.

Watch the HAA website for opportunities to register for the Hall of Fame luncheon or contact education@haaonline.org.

David Hargrove, Greystone Asset Management, was the big winner of the evening, receiving 34 votes for his wine as the favorite among attendees.   David Jones, SUEBA, was kind enough to lend a property, Ventura Lofts, as the fabulous venue for this event.

Attendees were delighted to visit with Greg Brown, Vice President of Government Affairs for the National Apartment Association.  Greg flew in for the event from D.C. to accept the donation of $11,000 to the NAAPAC.

In case you have a hankering to taste some of the wines from the evening, here is the list of what was served:

Wine Hosts and Wines

Eileen Subinsky, Michael Stevens Interests
Chateau Carbonnieux, Cru Classe De Graves, Pessac-Leognan (White Sauvignon – Semillon)

Darlene Guidry, Hettig Management Corp.
2007 Planeta, Chardonnay

Gary Blumberg, Guardian Equity Management
2005 Gloria Ferrer, Pinot Noir

Kirk Tate, Orion Real Estate Services
2007 Retour, Pinot Noir

David Hargrove, Greystone Asset Management
BV Tapestry, Meritage

Kim Small, MORGAN
Seduction, Cabernet Sauvignon  


Dick LaMarche, Creative Property Management
2006 Don Mecher, Cabernet Sauvignon

Jerry Winograd, Judwin Properties
2007 Stag's Leap Wine Artemis, Cabernet Sauvignon

Stephen Sweet, Alliance Communities
2007 Ramian Chapter 7, Cabernet Blend

Stacy Hunt, Greystar
Robert Mondavi, Cabernet Sauvignon

 

President Obama’s townhall meeting at Facebook headquarters yesterday caught our eye….

It wasn’t because of Obama’s use of social media, but because of his comments regarding housing policy.

The President said:

“The challenge we still have, as your questioner properly points out, is that a lot of people who bought a first home when credit was easy now are finding that credit is tough.  And we've got to strike a balance.  Frankly, there’s some folks who are probably better off renting.  And what we don't want to do is return to a situation where people are putting no money down and they’ve got very easy payment terms at the front end and then it turns out five years from now, because they’ve got an adjustable rate mortgage, that they couldn't afford it and they lose their home.”

 

We agree, Mr. President!

In Houston, we know that home ownership is not for everyone.  About half of all Houstonians rent their home.  Many of them do so because they enjoy the maintenance-free lifestyle that goes along with renting.  Apartment renters don’t have to worry about cutting the yard or fixing the toilet.  Renters also don’t have to worry about selling a home, if they want to take a job in another part of the country.
 
A team of HAA members visits with our Congressional delegation in Washington every year during the National Apartment Association’s Capitol Conference to share information on our NAA/NMHC joint legislative priorities.  Balanced housing policy has long been a part of the message.

For more information on NAA’s legislative activities visit www.naahq.org.

HAA members can also get involved with HAA’s Political Action Committee.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the City of Lake Jackson for allowing us to work with them during the creation of this apartment ordinance. We would also like to thank the apartment owners, apartment managers and Lake Jackson City Council and staff members for all their contributions to this ordinance. Your hard work on this matter has been greatly appreciated. Thank you!

 HAA members are actively involved with NMHC. It comes as no surprise that HAA members are overwhelmingly present in both categories. To view the lists click here. Congratulations to all who made the list!
 

HAA members who contributed to the winning projects include: New Hope Housing, Camden Builders Inc., and Hettig/Kahn Development Corp.

Congratulations!

Properties can sign up for the Apartment Splash program beginning on May 9.  Starting May 9, you can contact Kristin at the YMCA at KristinH@YMCAHouston.org or call 713-589-9141 to sign your property up. 

The awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday June 15th from 6 to 8:30 P.M. at the InterContinental Hotel (near the Galleria). Nominations are due by Friday April 29,2010. You can nominate online by clicking here and filling out the online form.

If you have any questions about nominating procedures please contact Lisa Butler at lbutler@haaonline.org or call 713.595.0322. 

Contact us if you fit the bill or pass these on to someone else who does!
 

During the campaign, ABODE has invited recruiters and vendor members who have found great success with HAA to share their stories and tell what HAA means to their careers and businesses. This month we feature supplier member and Ambassador Todd Bennett, THS Texas, who has seen his company grow tremendously after just a few years of membership.

Q:Your company has been a member for HAA just a few years. What made you decide to join?
A: Our company saw a great deal of value in becoming members of the HAA. One of our continual goals as a company is to grow the THS brand across the southwest region, and we knew that the Houston market was the place to start. What better way to get your fingers on the pulse of one of the largest multifamily markets in the country than to surround yourself with the industry’s best and most seasoned veterans?

Q: Why have you stuck with us? How has being an HAA member helped your business?
A: THS does not consider our membership with HAA as a “nice to have” but rather a privilege. Our membership provides opportunities to connect and network with a multitude of clients and vendors, as well as to continue our education of the industry – two very important components for being successful in this business.
Being a member of the HAA has helped us grow tremendously. As mentioned before, one of the key functions of being successful in this market is networking. Events and committee meetings carefully planned by the HAA allow multifamily professionals from all backgrounds and levels of experience to have an opportunity to meet and discuss current issues on many different platforms. These meetings help open doors for new opportunities with new customers as well as educate as a collective group.
One reason behind THS’s success in the HAA has been the HAA staff. Their advice to us as a young company has been invaluable, and we are sincerely thankful for their leadership and guidance.

Q: What advice would you give a new member to help that person be successful in the association?
A: Early in our membership with the HAA, I asked myself the same question. The answer was easy – get involved and stay involved. The more time you invest in your membership, the more you get out of it.
If you are looking for ways to become successful in the association and as an individual, take a look around the room at the next HAA event. One recurring characteristic of all successful members is easy to see – they are all happy to be there and to be involved, which plays a huge role in their success.
For new members, the HAA provides the tools for any individual to become successful. Get involved and stay involved. The role you play as an active member today will help forge your path for success tomorrow.

For more information about the Go-Getter Club or the membership campaign, contact Lisa at 713-595-0322 or lbutler@haaonline.org.

HAA President Kim Small joined Greater Houston Safe Kids for the 6th annual April Pools Day on Friday, April 1.  The event reminded parents to watch their children around the water and that drowning can happen anywhere.

“As an apartment industry professional, I know that pools aren’t the only places where children drown near their homes.  I would always encourage parents to keep close watch on their children.” Small said.  “If a renter ever sees children unattended at the pool, I would urge them to ensure that children leave the pool area and report the incident to their manager immediately.”

Council Member Wanda Adams, Houston City Council District D, emceed the event at the Houston Texans YMCA.

From the Press Release:

There is no better way to beat the heat in Houston than a family outing to the beach, the swimming pool, and other water related activities. Yet it only takes minutes for a child to drown when adults aren’t paying close attention.  That’s why the Safe Kids Greater Houston Water Safety Coalition is teaming up with local groups and agencies to kick off its sixth annual April Pools Day water safety campaign.

 

April Pools Day is an annual event that focuses on providing water safety education and drowning prevention information to parents and children.  Safe Kids of Greater Houston wants families to have a safe start to summer fun by reminding parents and caregivers to never let children play unattended near water.  Designate a responsible adult to watch children while they’re in or near the water.
 
In 2010, 78 children drowned in Texas, and 32 of those drownings occurred here in the greater Houston area (41%).  Many were toddlers who drowned in the family's backyard pool.  Some were children who drowned in rivers and ponds and an even greater number were children who drowned when left unattended in bathtubs.  Already this year, 4 children have drowned in the greater Houston area and 13 in Texas.  Younger children, particularly toddlers, are especially vulnerable because they are fascinated by water and usually have not learned to swim. “The message is simple: a drowning can happen anywhere.  It only takes a few minutes for a child to drown and even a small amount of water is enough", said Deonesia Grays, the mother of a drowning victim.
 
Eighty percent of the drowning deaths occur between May and September.  With the summer months fast approaching, it’s critical for families to get prepared for the seasonal water related activities and to be especially vigilant as they head to the water. 

 

 

  
Please be assured that HAA does not use any third parties for distribution of association-related emails.  All official HAA emails will come to you from an @haaonline.org email address.  If you ever have any questions about an email you receive from HAA, feel free to call us at 713-595-0300. 

 
If you are an HAA member and want to be added to the email distribution list contact HAA.  We'll get you signed up for the weekly "HAA This Week" email and other informational pieces!

Locally, in addition to a custom medal, each 1st place position received $100 cash, with the overall competition winners receiving $50, $100 and $200 cash, respectively.  The following individuals were our winners:

Door Jamb Armor Installation
1st Carlos Trevino, Post Properties  —  00:31.960
2nd Joaquin Olvera, Greystar —  00:32.800
3rd Marcos Mata, Gables Residential —  00:33.840

Key Control Test
1st Gerardo Luna, Milestone 00:14.900
2nd Carlos Trevino, Post Properties  00:15.150
3rd Jose Herrera, Gables Residential  00:15.340

Faucet Repair
1st Arturro Vasquez, Greystar  00:11.400
2nd Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty  00:12.660
3rd (multiple  TIE) — 00:12.930

Appliance Repair
1st Jose Herrera, Gables Residential  00:17.130
2nd Mario Aguilar, Milestone  00:17.690
3rd Carlos Gallo, Camden  00:17.740

Toilet Repair
1st Juan Gallo, Asset Plus  00:23.840
2nd Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty 00:27.110
3rd Raul Campos, Greystar  00:27.470

Ceiling Fan Installation
1st Miguel Lopez, Greystar  00:18.500
2nd Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty  00:19.000
3rd Raymond Rodriguez, Celtic Realty 00:19.440

Fire & CO Safety Installation
1st Abel Vences, Milestone 00:12.330
2nd Gerardo Luna, Milestone  00:12.590
3rd Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty 00:13.160

Racecar Competition
1st Mario Aguilar, Milestone  00:05.576
2nd Ruben Gomez, Milestone 00:05.586
3rd Joaquin Olvera, Greystar 00:05.605

Overall Maintenance Mania Competition
1st Rolando Valdez, WRH Realty  02:31.451
2nd Jose Herrera, Gables Residential  02:38.970
3rd Carlos Gallo, Camden  02:41.974
 

A special thank you to our very generous event sponsors, without which we could not host this event: 

HD Supply
TPI, Inc.
Century A/C
Maintenance Supply HQ
Best Plumbing
Ameristar Screen and Glass
American Fire Systems
Total Package Turnkey
Roto Rooter
AAA Plumbers
Corestone Paving & Construction

When: Wednesday, April 20
Time: 1:30 – 2:45 pm (CST)
Conference Call #: 866/809-4014
Access Code: 7970623
Cost: FREE

RSVP to NAA's  David Edwards at: davide@naahq.org

As of 03-17-11

Please see this letter from the City of Lake Jackson regarding the proposed changes to the city's ordinance regarding apartments. 

This matter will be taken up at the City Council Meeting on March 21, 2011 at 6:30pm at Lake Jackson  City Hall (25 Oak Drive, Lake Jackson, TX 77566).

Please join us if you have interests in any properties in Lake Jackson.

This week HAA and other representatives of the apartment industry will be meeting with Lake Jackson city officials to discuss changes in a proposed apartment ordinance. Below is a summary of the new apartment ordinance proposal... 

ORDINANCE NO. 11-
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14 BUILDINGS OF THE
CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF LAKE JACKSON, TEXAS,
TO IMPOSE STRICTER REGULATIONS FOR APARTMENTS FOR
ITEMS SUCH AS HABITABLE UNITS, VENTILATION, HEATING,
AND INSPECTIONS; PROVIDING THAT ALL ORDINANCES OR
PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT HEREWITH SHALL
BE REPEALED TO THE EXTENT OF THE CONFLICT ONLY;
PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE;
AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.

The entire Apartment Ordinance can be read here.  If you have any questions, comments or concerns about this proposal, please email HAA's government affairs department at govaffairs@haaonline.org .

HAA President Kim Small’s mother and family surprised her at the 2011 Inaugural Gala with the announcement that a tree would be planted in her honor on the property of the Houston Apartment Association/Houston Apartment Foundation. Today, a Mexican Plum was planted on the south side of the HAA property to commemorate Kim’s presidency. The beautiful tree is in full bloom with scented, white flowers.

HAA Executive Vice President Jeff Hall, CAE, is pictured above with the tree just after planting this morning!

A commemorative marker will be placed near the tree in the coming weeks. Next time you are at HAA, be sure to check out our newest landscaping addition!

Come watch the Aeros battle the Texas Stars at 7:35 pm.  Bring your family and friends to take advantage of the following discounted seats: 

$20 Lower End Zone seats (regularly $26).

Click on the link below to download a discount form.

HAA Night With The Aeros

His "day in the life" video was selected from nation-wide submissions to win a free registration to the 2011 NAA Education Conference and Exposition  in Las Vegas! Check it out now and start thinking about your own video submission for next year!

This month's edition of ABODE discusses the benefits of being an HAA member. Below is Diane Gilbert's Q&A featured in ABODE:

We've invited longtime recruiters and vendor members who have found great success with HAA to share their stories and tell what HAA means to their careers and businesses. We kick off the campaign with HAA board member and Go-Getter Diane Gilbert, Greystone Asset Management, who has recruited 81 members for HAA so far and is looking forward to bringing many more into the fold.

How long have you been working in the apartment industry?

27 years

 

 How long have you been a Go-Getter?

About 15 years – long enough I have been on five or six HAA trips back in the day and received the Blue Vase award back in 2005.

 

How do you recruit?

Strong-arm ’em! Just kidding – anyone who wants to work with me needs to be a member of HAA. Once you explain the benefits, I have had very few not want to join! The challenge has always been finding a vendor NOT a member!

 

Any tips on recruiting?

Just invite them to a membership drive meeting and they see the excitement on the opportunity to build their business. Or show them them the Directory & Buyer’s Guide, and they see their competition sitting at the fingers of every member in Houston for the small investment just to be in the book. It’s an easy sell.

 

What advice can you give new members and others who tend to be shy?

I am shy with people I don’t know, and it can be intimidating because HAA members all seem to be so tight, but they are also very welcoming, so just make a little effort and the members will make it easy for you. I really believe our vendor members get back double the efforts they give.You’ve been an active member and volunteer for a number of years.

 

What keeps you coming back?

I love the camaraderie, the professional contacts, the contact with the best vendors, the education, and the opportunity to see and be seen. Sounds silly for someone who has been with her company for 16 years, but there is always an opportunity to learn and grow in this business, because it is ever-changing!

For more about the benefits of HAA membership and membership recruitment be sure to check out this month's issue of ABODE .

"Redi Carpet, the nation's largest exclusive multi-family flooringcontractor has acquired Select Floorcoverings, a multi-family flooring contractor with locations in Atlanta, GA. and Birmingham, AL." For full information on Redi Carpet's announcement, view this press release.

If you have news about your company or a project, please let HAA know about it!  Contact Aimee at AArrington@haaonline.org   to share your news with the Blog and/or Rachel at RZoch@haaonline.org to share your newswith ABODE Magazine.

An account has been set up for those wishing to donate to victims of the fire at the Emerald Shores Apartments in Seabrook.  If you would like to donate, here is the information:

Emerald Shores – Charitable Donations

Bank of America

Account Number – 488034633434

Wire Routing number – (For those who choose to wire funds) – 026009593

HAA partners with the Red Cross annually on the April Pools Day – Water Safety Press Conference.  The program aims to educate the community about drowning prevention and resources. 

In addition, the Red Cross regularly responds to fires in our community.  They have become the emergency responder to the needs of residents who have lost everything.  Check out the Red Cross’ new “Fire Hurts”  campaign for more information about the ways in which the Red Cross works to help victims of fires and ways that you can help  them do more.

Students met with hiring representatives from participating companies like Camden, Milestone, Greystar, Oak Leaf and more. In addition attendees were treated to hiring and interview tips as well as personal career success stories from members Kim Small, Morgan; Tod Grice, BG Personnel; Jeanette Rogers, Oak Leaf; and Jordan Sneed, BH Management.  

If a renter has noticed an increase in water rates that started in the last several months and their property is in the City of Houston, they may be noticing the increase in rates that the City passed for multifamily properties in July . 

The following questions and answers may also help renters to understand how they are billed for water, if water is allocated at their property (most common). 

What are the rights of a resident to contest a water bill?

 Disputes about the calculation of your bill are between the renter and the property owner. The TCEQ recommends filing billing disputes in writing with the person identified on your bill to contact about disputes--usually the owner, the on-site manager, or a billing company. The owner or designated person must then investigate the dispute and report the results of the investigation to the renter in writing. The investigation and report must be completed within 30 days from the date the renter provides written notification.

If a renter finds that a TCEQ rule has been violated, they may contact the TCEQ to file a complaint. TCEQ rules require that apartments keep the following records available for residents to inspect at the onsite manager's office during normal business hours:

a. A copy of the water allocation statute;
b. A copy of the TCEQ water allocation rules;
c. A copy of the water utility's current rate card (available from the utility company);
d. A checklist of ideas for water conservation in your dwelling;
e. Your water utility bills for the apartment community for the current month and the preceding 12 months;
f. Your records of rent income and water bill income from residents, including the date and amount of each resident's payment of rent and water bills for the current month and the preceding 12 months; and
g. the following information relating to billing calculation in Section 291.122(e)(6) of the rules:
      1. the formula, occupancy factors, if any, and percentages used to calculate resident bills;
      2. the total number of occupants or equivalent occupants if the equivalent occupant ratio is used; and
      3. the square footage of the resident's dwelling unit and the total square footage of all units in the apartment community, used for billing if dwelling unit size is used as part of the formula.

Also see question 1 for more information.

 * Friday, Feb. 18, 7 to 10 p.m., Kings Harbor - Mardi Gras Concert featuring Leroy Thomas and the Zydeco Roadrunners.    

* Sunday, Feb. 27, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Humble Civic Center - Raise the Roof Chili Cook-Off and Concert.

 Tickets will be available at the door for $10 (adults) and $5 (children 7+).  Children six and under are free.In addition to all-you-can-eat chili, we have desserts from Lawler's, a great raffle, and the following just for children:         

Free games and prizes         

• -Raffle for children only        
• -Lemonade and other goodies        
• -Free face painting       
• -Junction Jack from the Houston Astros        
• -and more....

Click here to view the Cookoff Poster.

For more information about HAAM’s services or to learn how you can help visit www.haamministries.org  or call (281) 446-3663.

Following the press conference, Council Member Jarvis Johnson took a turn at the controls of the backhoe to begin the process of bringing the structure down.  Council Member Brenda Stardig used the backhoe to claw down more of the building.

Housing and Community Development Department Director James Noteware said that the entire demolition will take about six weeks.  The cost of the demolition to the City of Houston will be about $400,000. 

Noteware thanked the Houston Apartment Association and the Houston Contractors Association for their partnerships in helping to address problem properties throughout the city. 

Here is some of the news coverage of this event:

http://www.click2houston.com/news/26773146/detail.html 

 http://www.thecypresstimes.com/article/News/Local_News/DEMOLITION_DAY_FOR_LONGTIME_HOUSTON_EYESORE_AND_CRIME_MAGNET/39931 

 http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/local&id=7942084 

Get to know Ashley, by reading her story here:

“I started in the industry as a part-time Leasing Associate with Greystar in April of 2009. It was there that I realized how much I love helping people find their perfect new home and developing a real sense of community at each property I've worked at.

 

From there, I joined Hills Communities as a Leasing Associate in the Champions area. Hills is a newcomer to the Houston area, and I have enjoyed helping them integrate into the unique opportunities that Houston brings.

 

I most recently attended the HAA Installation and New Year's Gala with my property manager, Jessica Holmes, and Maintenance Supervisor, Scott Ragsdale, courtesy of Summit Floors.

 

I had such a great time, and I am very much looking forward to the next HAA NEXT gathering in March. I hope to meet more young people in the industry who are as excited to be here as I am!”

 Photo by Mark Hiebert, Hiebert Photography (Ashley is on the right!)

 We’re proud to call Ashley and more than 1000 other Facebook friends part of the HAA family! 

Get to know some of our friends by checking out our Houston Apartment Association Group page or our fans by checking out our ABODE Fan Page.

The ordinance explains that the signage must be:

A "NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS" legibly typed or printed in a font 28 points or larger, in both English and Spanish, the substance of which Notice is as follows: "IF ANY CONDITION of this building CREATES A HAZARD to human safety or health, REPORT THE CONDITION to the building's manager or owner. You also may report the condition to the City of Houston by calling the City's Service Helpline at 311.

The ordinance states that the document must be posted:

... either (a) as provided by the Building Code or (b) by posting an accurate copy of the document in a manner reasonably protected from weather and in a place conspicuous to ordinary tenants no more than five feet from each mailbox facility at which the United States Postal Service delivers mail to tenants or, if no such facility exists, in some other place equally conspicuous to ordinary tenants of the MFRB.

The City of Houston's Apartment Inspection Division has just approved our translation of the required notice, so we're providing it to you here for easy download: Notice to Residents

Don't forget, you also need to post other required documents! 

Here are details on the ordinance  from a previous blog post.

We'll be releasing our new step by step, Houston Habitability Compliance videos in the next few weeks, so keep an eye on the blog and your email for an announcement on this new members-only benefit.

As always, if you have any questions regarding regulatory or legislative issues, please email HAA's Public Affairs Department to reach Andy and Aimee.  You can also chat live with Andy or Aimee via the HAA website, just use your member log in and click on the chat feature on the left side of the homepage!

 The chance of a patient surviving a cardiac arrest decreases by about 10% per minute after collapse and chance of survival is minimal after 10 minutes.

This Red Cross class will certify you in to the proper use of AED's (automatic external defibrillators) and practice of Adult CPR.  Participants must be over the age of 12 and registration is required. Plus, the class is offered at the EXTREMELY low rate of $10 per person.  This is a once-a-year event, so register now to ensure they save your space at the Methodist Training Center (The Texans Practice Bubble at Reliant Park).  

Click here  for more details or visit houstonsavealife.org to register.

The Texas Apartment Association’s Legislative Conference will be held on Wednesday, February 16, 2011, and the National Apartment Association’s Capitol Conference will be held March 13-16, 2011.  At both events, you will learn about upcoming legislation that could impact our industry and have the opportunity to visit with legislators.

 Here is more information on the TAA event:

 “TAA’s Legislative Conference is your chance to learn about TAA’s affirmative legislation and any adverse proposals that might affect your business, as well as your opportunity to meet with legislators who can affect your bottom line.

 

Whether you are experienced with legislative issues or new to the legislative process, this is your chance to learn and take action. You don’t need to be knowledgeable about politics; you just need to know your industry and be willing to share your knowledge to legislators. It’s important that members from every local association attend to ensure that every legislator is visited by rental housing professionals from their area.” 

For more information visit the TAA conference page.

Here is more information on the NAA conference:

 “The Capitol Conference is the one time each year when hundreds of multifamily housing industry members descend on Washington, D.C., to tell their members of Congress in person about the issues important to and affecting their businesses.

The 2011 Capitol Conference theme is “We Grow Stronger Every Day.” That has never been truer than now. For many years, NAA has urged Congress to create a balanced housing policy – one that recognizes the important role apartments play in housing Americans. With Congress and the Administration now reexamining the role of homeownership in the “American Dream,” the apartment industry has a tremendous opportunity to influence housing policy in a positive way.” 

Key speakers at this event include Co-Founder and Executive Director of Politico, Jim VandeHei, and Former House Majority Leader, Trent Lott.  For more information on the NAA conference, download this conference flier  or visit www.naahq.org/events/capconf .  

To get involved in our local legislative activities, consider joining the HAA Better Government Fund PAC .

The first measurement period is January – June 2011, measured against January – June 2010.  

 For details and to print the rebate application, visit the Water Conservation Rebate Program Information Page .

When purchasing water saving devices, please consider using an HAA Supplier in our Directory! 

Here is more information from Brent:

Resident Events  is a free resource for property managers to find, share, and rate apartment party ideas .  The website is quickly creating the largest list of event ideas in the industry, all in one spot to help property managers plan their summer party, their holiday event, or any other resident function in between.  On-site teams are welcomed to share their own event ideas, or simply browse through the dozens of available ideas already on the site. 

Resident Events was created by the professional networking group, Multifamily Insiders, with the help of Apartment Life, who provided many of the initial event ideas.  Apartment Life operates in over 300 communities producing events for their clients, so it was easy to share a portion of their vast database.
 

We applaud the innovation of HAA member companies.  If you have news about your company or a project, please let HAA know about it!  Contact Aimee at AArrington@haaonline.org  to share your news with the Blog and/or Rachel at RZoch@haaonline.org  to share your news with ABODE Magazine.

This is a great time to communicate with your residents about cold weather precautions for your property. 

You may want to remind chilly renters about space heater safety by downloading door hangers in English or Spanish  from the Houston Fire Department.

Remind residents to get rid of Christmas Trees now, before they dry out further and become a bigger fire hazard.

Pets and balcony plants should be brought indoors to safeguard against the chilly temperatures.

Have your maintenance personnel check the wraps on your pipes and repair any that have become uncovered.  Also, be ready to tackle icy walk ways and landings.

Most importantly, remind residents to report any problems to the office immediately.

For more safety tips, visit www.SafeInMyPlace.com.  

Check out this article  from Lowes for Pros on the importance of keeping ice and snow cleared from your property.

Great tips from KHOU on protecting people, plants and pets in the cold weather can be found here .

Here is part of a sample notice to residents regarding freezing weather that HAA Member, MORGAN, is using on their 2121 Mid Lane property.

"NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS

Severe subfreezing weather is forecasted. Water pipes in our apartment community may freeze and break unless we all act quickly. If pipes freeze, we may have to cut off the water to the entire building. In addition, if there are wide spread pipe breakage throughout the city, it may be days before we are able to repair the pipes to continue hot and cold water service in your unit. Therefore, please help us by taking the following action:

IMMEDIATE ACTION when temperatures drop:

· Please leave the heat on 24 hours a day at a reasonable temperature setting. Keep all windows closed. Be sure to leave open the cabinet doors under the kitchen sink and bathroom sink to allow heat to reach the plumbing.

· Drip all your water 24 hours a day at a steady drip when you are in the apartment and when you are gone. This includes cold and hot water in your kitchen sink, bath lavatories, bath tubs, and showers, wet bar sinks, etc. until it is safe to turn the faucets off. As everyone in the city drips their faucets, the water pressure may drop, the dripping or stream may subside, and you may have to open the faucets some more.

· Notify management as soon as possible if you notice any water running from a building or from under your walls.

As authorized in the lease, the management may be entering the apartments for spot checks."

If your pool is open to the public (not just residents and their guests), you may have to comply. 

 Check out this information from NMHC, on NAA's webpage... 

Department of Justice Issues Revised ADA Regulations on Pool Accessibility

 

On September 15, 2010, the Department of Justice published revised regulations for Title II and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  Title II covers state and local government facilities and services.  Title III, which addresses public accommodations and commercial facilities, has limited applicability in the apartment context, but does include a new accessibility standard for swimming pools that are open to the public.  This guidance document crafted by NMHC staff reviews the revised regulations and their applicability to the apartment industry.

 

A log in is required, so if you don't have yours, contact NAA for assistance.

Remember, your membership in HAA automatically grants you membership in the Texas Apartment Association and the NAtional Apartment Association.

• Set a budget you can afford - Don't forget that you may need to pay for utilities and other items not included in your rent.
• Check out your credit and rental records - Get a report from a consumer reporting agency, and clear up any problems or mistakes on your record before you fill out a rental application.
• Make a list of what you are looking for in your new home - Use your list to check out the rental housing you're considering and make sure it includes the kinds of features that will make you feel comfortable with your choice.
• Read your lease carefully before you sign it - Many properties use the Texas Apartment Association/Houston Apartment Association lease which can be found online here (in English and Spanish).
• Check to see if the property is a Houston Apartment Association Member at www.haaonline.org - Our directory feature allows you to type in the property name, address or zip code.

Check out the Texas Aparment Association's website for additional tips on renting basics. 

The chart on page 33, "Analysis by Classification" was inadvertently repeated from our June issue. Here is the new updated chart . ABODE regrets the error.

HAA first began collecting food in 1983 and the Houston Food Bank lists HAA as one of the top 25 donors to their organization.

Most of these questions apply to properties that are "All Bills Paid."  In those situations, residents pay their rent to an owner/manager.  The rent payment includes utility fees like water and electricity. The owner then pays all of the utility bills for a property to utility compaies.  If an owner does not pay their bills to a utilty, and the utility is disconnected, renters have many rights under state law.  

Here is what the Texas Property Code (92.301) says:

§ 92.301. LANDLORD LIABILITY TO TENANT FOR UTILITY
CUTOFF. 

(a) A landlord who has expressly or impliedly agreed in
the lease to furnish and pay for water, gas, or electric service to
the tenant's dwelling is liable to the tenant if the utility company
has cut off utility service to the tenant's dwelling or has given
written notice to the tenant that such utility service is about to
be cut off because of the landlord's nonpayment of the utility bill.
(b)  If a landlord is liable to the tenant under Subsection
(a) of this section, the tenant may:
(1)  pay the utility company money to reconnect or
avert the cutoff of utilities according to this section;
(2)  terminate the lease if the termination notice is
in writing and move-out is to be within 30 days from the date the
tenant has notice from the utility company of a future cutoff or
notice of an actual cutoff, whichever is sooner;
(3)  deduct from the tenant's rent, without necessity
of judicial action, the amounts paid to the utility company to
reconnect or avert a cutoff;
(4)  if the lease is terminated by the tenant, deduct
the tenant's security deposit from the tenant's rent without
necessity of lawsuit or obtain a refund of the tenant's security
deposit pursuant to law;
(5)  if the lease is terminated by the tenant, recover a
pro rata refund of any advance rentals paid from the date of
termination or the date the tenant moves out, whichever is later;
(6)  recover actual damages, including but not limited
to moving costs, utility connection fees, storage fees, and lost
wages from work;  and
(7)  recover court costs and attorney's fees, excluding
any attorney's fees for a cause of action for damages relating to a
personal injury.
(c)  When deducting for the tenant's payment of the
landlord's utility bill under this section, the tenant shall submit
to the landlord a copy of a receipt from the utility company which
evidences the amount of payment made by the tenant to reconnect or
avert cutoff of utilities.
(d)  The tenant remedies under this section are effective on
the date the tenant has notice from the utility company of a future
cutoff or notice of an actual cutoff, whichever is sooner.  However,
the tenant's remedies under this section shall cease if:
(1)  the landlord provides the tenant with written
evidence from the utility that all delinquent sums due the utility
have been paid in full;  and
(2)  at the time the tenant receives such evidence, the
tenant has not yet terminated the lease or filed suit under this
section.

As of January 1, 2010, landlords are not allowed to disconnect electricity for nonpayment of rent.  Electricity may be disconnected in certain instances, such as for repairs.  

Section 92.0091 - RESIDENTIAL TENANT'S RIGHT OF RESTORATION AFTER UNLAWFUL UTILITY DISCONNECTION - describes that a renter may seek a writ of restoration from a Justice of the Peace, if the landlord illegally disconnects utilities. 

Renters may also be interested in answers to our frequently asked questions or our online complaint form.

Member Managers -- Check out the REDBOOK online at www.TAA.org  (you must be a REDBOOK online subscriber to use this feature or order one from Frances at Frances@haaonline.org) for complete, up-to-date guidance on issues related to Ownership and Management of rental properties in Texas.

If you would like fire safety door hangers for your property, you can get them by using one of the following methods:

• Email Aimee at AArrington@haaonline.org
• Stop by the HAA office at 4810 Westway Park Blvd
• Pick them up at the Chili Fest on Oct. 30!

For more fire safety resources, visit www.SafeInMyPlace.com. 

If you plan to vote in Harris County, we suggest voting during the early voting period (October 18 – October 29) or by mail if you are eligible.  The fire at the Harris County voting machine storage facility may cause fewer machines to be available at each voting location.

Candidates supported by NAAPAC, TAAPAC and/or HAABGF PAC:

US Representative District 2 – Ted Poe

US Representative District 7 – John Culberson

US Representative District 9 – Al Green

US Representative District 10 – Michael McCaul

US Representative District 18 – Sheila Jackson Lee

US Representative District 22 – Pete Olson

US Representative District 29 – Gene Green

Statewide Races:

Governor  - Rick Perry

Lieutenant Governor -  David Dewhurst

Attorney General - Greg Abbott

Land Commissioner - Jerry Patterson

Agriculture Commissioner - Todd Staples

Justice Supreme Court Place 5 – Paul Green

Justice Supreme Court Place 9 – Eva Guzman

Senate, State of Texas

State Senate District 4 – Tommy Williams

State Senate District 6 – Mario Gallegos

State Senate District 7 – Dan Patrick

State Senate District 11 – Mike Jackson

State Senate District 13 – Rodney Ellis

State Senate District 15 – John Whitmire

State Senate District 17 – Joan Huffman

State Senate District 18 – Glenn Hegar

House of Representatives, State of Texas

State Representative District 15 – Rob Eissler

State Representative District 16 – Brandon Creighton

State Representative District  18 – John Otto

State Representative District 24 – Larry Taylor

State Representative District 25 – Dennis Bonnen

State Representative District 26 – Charlie Howard

State Representative District 27 – Ron Reynolds

State Representative District 28 – John Zerwas

State Representative District 29 – Randy Weber

State Representative District 126 – Patricia Harless

State Representative District 127 – Dan Huberty

State Representative District 128 – Wayne Smith

State Representative District 129 – John Davis

State Representative District 130 – Allen Fletcher

State Representative District 131 – Alma Allen

State Representative District 132 – Bill Callegari

State Representative District 133 – Jim Murphy

State Representative District 134 – Ellen Cohen

State Representative District 135 – Gary Elkins

State Representative District 136 – Beverly Woolley

State Representative District 137 – Scott Hochberg

State Representative District 138 – Dwayne Bohac

State Representative District 139 – Sylvester Turner

State Representative District 140 – Armando Walle

State Representative District 141 – Senfronia Thompson

State Representative District 142 – Harold Dutton

State Representative District 143 – Ana Hernandez

State Representative District 144 – Ken Legler

State Representative District 145 – Carol Alvarado

State Representative District 147 – Garnet Coleman

State Representative District 148  - Jessica Farrar

State Representative District 149 – Hubert Vo

State Representative District 150 – Debbie Riddle

Local Races and Judges

Harris County Judge – Ed Emmett

Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 1 – R. Jack Cagle

Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 2 – Jacqueline Lucci Smith

Harris County Civil Court at Law No. 3 – Linda Storey

Harris County Treasurer – Orlando Sanchez

Harris County Commissioner Precinct 2 – Sylvia Garcia

Harris County Commissioner Precinct 4 – Jerry Eversole

Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 2 – David Patronella

Justice of the Peace Precinct 2, Place 2 – George Risner

Justice of the Peace Precinct 3, Place 2 – Don Coffey

Justice of the Peace Precinct 4, Place 2 – Tom Lawrence

Justice of the Peace Precinct 5, Place 2 – Jeff Williams

Justice of the Peace Precinct 6, Place 2 – Armando Rodriguez

Justice of the Peace Precinct 7, Place 2 – Zinetta Burney

Justice of the Peace Precinct 8, Place 2 – Louie Ditta

The HAA Better Government Fund (Stacy Hunt, Treasurer) is the political action committee of the Houston Apartment Association.

The HAA Better Government Fund participates in local and state political campaigns, helping candidates who support the apartment industry and its supplier businesses. HAABGF Meetings occur “as needed,” usually about 7 - 10 times a year, depending on the election cycle.