WASTED TAX DOLLARS

Lately we have seen an increase in graffiti appearing along the trails. The photo above is just one example. It is your tax dollars that pay for the removal and manpower expenses each time someone defaces public property. This money could be put to better use providing new trails, maintaining current trails, bridges and the bayous. Thus far this year $1,941.99 has been spent on removal. In 2022, the total exceeded $13,000. This is an unnecessary expense paid for by you and your neighbors.

If you see someone, hear of someone committing this crime, please contact the non-emergency number at the Sheriff’s office (713-221-6000).

According to state law regarding vandalism and intentionally painting on property:

• Class “C” – misdemeanor if the pecuniary loss is less than $100.
• Class “B” – $100 or more but less than $750.
• Class “A” – $750. or more but less that $2,500.

Anything above this amount is considered a felony. The graffiti removed from the trails last week fell in the Class “A” category. The police are notified and/or a police report is filed with each incident.

Please remind everyone, if caught, there will be ramifications and fines. Your tax dollars could be put to better use than rectifying the willful acts of a few individuals. Thank you

“See something – Say something.”

We are pleased to announce the opening of our final trail section! It is across Highway 6. It winds around the sewage plant and down along Hearthstone. There are two handicap friendly entrances in Hearthstone. It also houses our first two benches that are part of our beautification project. Soon there will be benches, more trash cans, doggie pots, and signs throughout the trails on the older sections. We are excited to be able to make the trails more user friendly.

Stop disease-causing bacteria in its tracks, by keeping our waterways clean. Do your part by cleaning up after your dogs! It is appalling to see the trails littered with dog poop. Soon it will start getting darker earlier. Your fellow trail users would appreciate a clean trail when they go walking or bike riding especially at dusk and early morning. Bags are provided to facilitate removal if you forgot to bring one with you.

At home:

• Pick up every poop
• Bag it
• Put it in the trash
• Repeat weekly

Away from home:

• Always bring bags
• Pick up every poop
• Bag it
• Put it in the trash

Veterinarians, garbage collectors and health professionals all agree that the trash is the safest way to dispose of your dog’s poop. Dog droppings left on grass wash into our storm drains, increasing the level of bacteria and making waterways unsafe for swimming and fishing.

Residents: Harris County Flood Control has given WCID 145 the task of maintaining the bayous within our district. Please do not plant bushes, trees, gardens, etc. in this area. The mowers should not have to go around these obstacles. Any such plantings will be removed by the District.

Thank you for your cooperation.

With so many people home at this time and spending time outside, we’d like to highlight the trails in the community.

It is against the law to ride any motorized vehicles on the bayous throughout Copperfield. Not only is it a nuisance to residents backing up to the bayous but it can damage the trails and/or the channels that keep our area from flooding. As a reminder, there is a fine imposed if caught.

If you see someone using a motorized vehicle on the trail, please call the Sheriff’s non emergency number (713) 221-6000 and report it.