BROOKSHIRE, Texas – A Brookshire woman says she’s spent three years trying to get answers about a commemorative brick she purchased from the city — and now she wants her money back.
Isabel Tristan contacted 2 Helps You after she said repeated attempts to resolve the issue with the City of Brookshire went nowhere.
“I’ve exhausted everything I could do,” said Tristan, 68.
Tristan said she purchased a $75 commemorative brick intended to honor her grandfather. According to her, the brick was supposed to be engraved with his name and installed near a recently built amphitheater in Brookshire.
But three years later, Tristan said there is still no sign of the brick.
“There has been a lot of miscommunication with the city about these bricks,” Tristan said.
She provided KPRC 2 with copies of two letters she said were sent to the city via registered mail regarding the issue with her purchase.
After learning about her concerns, KPRC 2 also reached out to the mayor through emails and a phone message seeking comment.
On Wednesday, KPRC 2 visited Brookshire City Hall, where employees said the mayor was out of the office.
For Tristan, the situation is about more than just the money.
“I think it’s the principle,” she said. “You sold this brick for $75, it’s never been laid, and I don’t even know if it exists.”
After waiting years for a resolution, Tristan said she is now simply asking for a refund.
“At this point, because I’ve waited three years, just give me my money back,” she said.
As part of this “2 Helps You” report, research identified several steps consumers should take before purchasing commemorative bricks or similar memorial items:
- Verify in writing that the city or organization has properly authorized the donation program in accordance with applicable laws.
- Review all content and style guidelines to ensure the engraving terms are clearly outlined before purchase.
- Confirm exactly where the brick will be placed, how long it will remain there, and whether the area is protected from future development.
- Request installation timelines in writing before making payment.
- Carefully review refund and error policies, including whether buyers will receive an engraving proof for approval before production and whether purchases are considered non-refundable.