The Board of Directors of Fort Bend County MUD 151 (MUD 151) would like to address the recent and ongoing mail thefts in the Firethorne Community. MUD 151 exclusively serves the Firethorne community and is managed by a Board of five Firethorne residents.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) owns and operates the cluster mailboxes installed in eleven MUD 151-owned pocket parks throughout the community. MUD 151 has no ownership or control over these cluster boxes, and responsibility for addressing these crimes falls with law enforcement and the USPS. To combat mail theft, many residents have suggested restricting access to the parks and/or mail kiosks and installing security cameras.However, being a public, governmental body, there are numerous complexities (legal and otherwise) that may not allow MUD 151 to implement such solutions.
That said, we continue to explore a variety of potential avenues with the goal of mitigating the risk of mail theft. Several actions have taken place or are currently in motion, which include:
MUD 151 has contacted the Firethorne Community Association (the Association, or HOA) to offer a partnership on the matter. This would include exploring MUD 151 providing financial contribution to the Association for additional and enhanced community security, the extent of which would have to be determined by both entities. This is a logical avenue to explore because:
- 1.) the Association already bears responsibility for security measures in the neighborhood through their contract with the Ft. Bend Constable’s office, and
- 2.) as a private entity, the HOA may have more latitude and fewer hurdles to overcome as it relates to potential solutions.
- Note: MUD 151 currently awaits a response from the HOA Board on the proposed partnership.
On February 13, MUD 151 welcomed Constable Chad Norvell (Ft. Bend County, Precinct 1) to our public meeting to collaborate on district security matters, with a particular emphasis on mail theft. Constable Norvell noted that Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) systems are used extensively by surrounding jurisdictions (e.g. Ft. Bend County, City of Fulshear, City of Katy), and are an effective tool that could enhance overall security measures (not just focused on mail theft) in Firethorne.
- The Board agreed to invite Flock Safety (a leading LPR provider) to an upcoming meeting to get more information on this potential solution.
The Board continues to explore and get resolution on the potential challenges that surround the use of security cameras as a possible solution.
While the responsibility for addressing mail theft crime does not lie with MUD 151, we are committed to serving our fellow neighbors. To this end, we will continue to work toward possible measures aimed at lessening the impact to our residents.
Tips to Avoid Mail Theft
- Check Your Mail Daily: Collect your mail promptly after it is delivered to reduce the time it sits unattended in your mailbox.
- Use USPS Informed Delivery: Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery to receive daily notifications about your incoming mail. This service allows you to track what should be arriving, so you can quickly notice if something is missing.
- Consider a PO Box: For added security, consider renting a PO Box at your local post office or private mailbox service location. This ensures your mail is kept secured in an attended location.
- Use Private Delivery Services: For sensitive or valuable items, consider using FedEx, UPS, or other private delivery services. These companies offer various secure delivery options, including signature-required deliveries.
- Report Mail Theft: If you suspect your mail has been stolen, report it immediately to USPS and local law enforcement, such as the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office. Quick reporting can help authorities take action and potentially recover your mail.
- USPS Reporting: Visit USPS Mail Theft Reporting or call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).
- Fort Bend County Precinct 1 Constable: Call the non-emergency line at (281) 238-1340.