Page 11 - 2019 DIRECTORY

$90 million to build. The park hosts thoroughbred and quarter horse rac-
ing seasons, and simulcasting of both national and international races. It
is minutes from the area via a quick trip on the Sam Houston Toll way,
located on Beltway 8 between Highway 290 and I-45. There are more than
1,000 monitors in the pavilion. (281) 807-8700
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – Each spring, the
community takes on a Western flavor as young and old celebrate Texas’
cowboy heritage at NRG Park and Stadium. This event is among the larg-
est of its kind in the world. Spread out over three full weeks, it attracts
top professional cowboys and cowgirls along with headline acts from the
world. It is one of the largest economic catalysts in the city. Beginning with
the world’s largest barbecue cook-off and through the rodeo championship
finals, the event raises millions of dollars targeted forscholarships and edu-
cational programs.

HARRIS COUNTY

SERVICES

Harris County Appraisal District (HCAD) is responsible for local property tax appraisal and exemption
administration for 500 jurisdictions or taxing units. Each taxing district depends on HCAD to set accurate market
values. For information on appraisals or property taxes, contact HCAD’s Information and Assistance Center, 2800
N. Loop, #100, (713) 957-7800.
Harris County Assessor/Collector of Taxes handles the collection of vehicle registration fees. Along with
the main office at the county’s Administration Building downtown, the tax assessor/collector also operates offices
at the Kyle Chapman Center, 7330 Spencer Hwy.; Marcario Garcia, 1001 Marcario Garcia Dr.; Pasadena, 101 Main;
and Wallisville, 14350 Wallisville Rd. For more information on fees and hours, call (713) 755-5288.
Harris County Clerk’s Office serves as the keeper of county records. For more information, call (713) 755-
6411.
Harris County Library System offers a free library card to anyone who lives in Harris County. Bring iden-
tification with a current address to the library and the circulation desk will issue a card immediately. The county
library system oversees 25 branch locations, including –
1500 Keene St., Galena Park................(713) 450-0982
921 Akron, Jacinto City........................(713) 673-3237
15741 Wallisville Rd., Houston...........(281) 457-1631

GOVERNMENT

City of Houston has a mayor-council form of government, with the mayor and 16 council members
serving as the legislative body. These 17 officials and the city controller are elected for four-year terms. A county
judge and four commissioners who perform the principal administrative and legislative functions of the county
govern Harris County. They serve four-year terms.

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