Houston council selects interim council member

Following the resignation of Councilman Mike Adams—not related to the former City of Houston Treasurer Jess Adams who was sentenced to two and half years for embezzlement—the City of Houston council members held a special election during the regularly scheduled council meeting on July 11.

Three members of the community applied for the vacancy and had the opportunity to answer questions and give a statement about themselves and why they were applying.

Kevin “Charlie” Shupe said he felt he had a lot to contribute to Houston.

“I love living in this town, it’s a great place. There’s so much kindness and understanding," he said.

He told council that he understands some might think his age could be a factor, but expressed his passion for serving but felt his younger age could bring some energy to the council.

Laurie A Faubert told the council that she moved out in the Valley nearly 30 years ago and has raised her family out here and felt that it was her time to serve, saying: “I feel that it is our responsibility as community members and neighbors to do the best we can for each other.”

A third person had submitted an application to fill the seat but an emergency precluded her attendance. She instead sent a statement to the council for their consideration.

Following a secret ballot, Faubert was selected to fill the vacant council spot. Her term will end in October, 2024, and she says she plans to run.

Faubert says that she has always been community-minded and wants to see neighbors be neighborly and take personal responsibility for the community, something she hopes others in Houston might take to heart.

“I feel like being involved and having a platform is important for those who are passionate about our community, our country and our families.”

There will be three spots on council open for election in October for residents in the City of Houston interested in running in the upcoming election, which will be held October 1, 2024.

For more information, please visit www.houstonak.us/index.php