Chamber of Commerce holds annual gala
Dozens of community leaders and elected officials gathered at the Hobby Airport Marriott Friday, Feb. 6, for the South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce’s 40th annual banquet.
Titled Suede, Leather & Lace, this year’s event had a country and western theme, and with 2009 Dobie graduate Rodell Duff – a nationally recognized country and western recording artist – providing musical entertainment, attendees, wearing their best boots and cowboy hats, two-stepped into the evening.
Colby Reed was named the chamber’s Volunteer of the Year for his selfless efforts in the South Belt community.
“This honoree is the kind of person every chamber hopes for – dependable, enthusiastic and always ready to step in,” said South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce Chair Kristi Koncaba. “Whether it’s moving furniture for an event, transporting donated items, hauling materials for off‑site activities, or tackling last‑minute challenges, this volunteer shows up without hesitation and often before the request is even finished. His cheerful attitude is as reliable as their work ethic, brightening even the busiest event days and turning stressful moments into manageable ones.”
Burnett Elementary Principal Jae Lee was presented the group’s Citizen of the Year Award.
“Tonight’s honoree understands the value of giving back and lifting others up,” said Koncaba. “Through thoughtful partnerships and a deep belief in every child’s potential, this leader has cultivated programs that encourage students to embrace community and take pride in their role as emerging leaders.”
Koncaba was presented the organization’s annual Chairman’s Award.
South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lisa Holbrook described Koncaba as a “leader with exceptional vision” and said she’s committed to lifelong service.
The following individuals make up the chamber’s 2026 board of directors:
– Kristi Koncaba, KR Koncaba Interests, chairman.
– Noble Alix, b1Bank, past chairman.
– Alyta Harrell, Pasadena ISD, chairman-elect.
– Chris Clark, Clear Brook City MUD.
– Stephanie Clawson, Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital.
– Darlin Colon, Community Health Network.
– Sarah Ferguson, Home Bank.
– Kenny Fernandez, North American Shipping Agencies.
– David Flickinger, South Belt Graphics and Printing.
– Emory Gadd, Sagemont Church.
– John Herman, AMOCO Federal Credit Union, treasuer.
– Rosanne Kerr, H-E-B Blackhawk.
– J. Aaron Knight, San Jacinto College.
– Reyna Lara-Lagunas, Shell Federal Credit Union.
– Rebecca Lilley, Memorial Hermann, secretary.
– Crystal Rhame, Lunas Mexican Restaurant.
– Robert A. Whitley, Robert Whitley Attorney at Law.
– Tristan Williams, Island Breeze Car Wash & Auto Services.
City to transition heavy trash pickup
Starting March 2, the city of Houston is transitioning to an appointment-based system for heavy trash (junk waste and tree waste) pickup.
Residents must schedule pickups by calling 311 or using the 311 website, with collection to be completed within five working days, according to Solid Waste Management Department officials.
The new, on-demand, or “by appointment” system, limits residents to four heavy trash pickups per year to reduce backlog and illegal dumping.
The new appointment‑only system is aimed at ending long‑running delays and easing pressure on an overextended Solid Waste Management Department. City officials say the change is driven by chronic staffing shortages, inconsistent pickup times and a system that simply couldn’t keep up with demand.
“The previous system wasn’t sustainable at a citywide scale.” Solid Waste Director Larius Hassan recently told Houston City Council.
The department has faced months of delays, and officials say the new model – where residents request pickup rather than wait for trucks to sweep entire neighborhoods – will help crews work more efficiently.
Crews will only collect from addresses with confirmed appointments.
City officials said the change is expected to provide faster and more predictable service, eliminating the current weeks‑long backlogs.
Key details
The new Houston heavy trash system will include the following key details (starting March 2):
– How to schedule: Call 311 or use the city of Houston 311 website to request a pickup.
– Pickup limit: Households are limited to four heavy trash/junk waste collections per calendar year.
– Collection timeline: Once scheduled, the city aims to collect items within five working days.
– Confirmation: residents will receive photo confirmation of their pickup.
– Items accepted: The service covers heavy trash, junk waste and tree waste.
Additional information
City residents should also be aware of the following information about the upcoming transition:
– The old, scheduled monthly or bimonthly system will remain in place up until March 2.
– Drop-off locations: Residents can still use city depositories for immediate disposal of large items.
– Construction debris: Materials from private contractors or significant remodeling (dirt, concrete, rocks) are generally excluded from residential heavy trash pickup.
– Safety check: Use the city’s interactive map to track the progress of heavy trash crews and check status.
Neighborhood Depositories
For items not eligible for curbside pickup, residents can still use the city’s six Neighborhood Depositories, including one located at Ellington Airport.
These sites require proof of residency and operate Tuesday through Saturday, typically from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Restrictions
Residents should expect the city to continue enforcing its standard rules regarding heavy trash, including the following guidelines:
– No household garbage will be accepted.
– No commercial or contractor debris will be accepted.
– Tree waste and junk waste must be properly separated when applicable.
– All waste must be in compliance with the city’s size and weight limits.
City officials are expected to announce more details about the new appointment-only system as the March 2 launch approaches.
E-mail mynews@southbeltleader.com with news items of interest.