Spring 2024 Inside La Marque Volume 25

INSIDE LA MARQUE

Community news from the City of La Marque and the La Marque Economic Development Corporation

Civic Pride: Building a Better Tomorrow

Eyes on La Marque

City Permits Frequently Asked Questions

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Hello Friends,

Recently, when asked about the state of our city, I replied, "It's sunny in La Marque." In this instance, sunny is a metaphor used to describe conditions from a different perspective. To understand just how sunny it is in La Marque, you would have to know that La Marque has seen dark days. At one time, La Marque struggled with crime and residents heard gunshots nightly. Today, OUR CRIME HAS FALLEN 35% this year alone. At one time, La Marque had one of the highest property tax rates in the county. Today, OUR TAX RATE HAS BEEN CUT to 41 cents, a 4.5-cent rate reduction. At one time, La Marque had no jobs or economic development. Today, Amazon has brought 500 jobs and La Marque's unemployment rate has fallen 33%. We are the 2nd fastest-growing city in the county, with a population of more than 20,000. You see, when we say, "It's sunny in La Marque," we are grateful for where we've been, but excited about where we are going! "It's sunny in La Marque!"

Mayor Keith Bell

CITY UPDATES

Lemonade Day which falls on May 04, 2024, offers a dynamic program where youth learn to launch and run their own business through a classic venture: a lemonade stand. Annually, in cities that participate, it provides a practical introduction to entrepreneurship. Mayor Bell's Youth Small Business Initiative further supports young entrepreneurs by offering networking opportunities and insights into small business management. This initiative is an excellent chance for both budding and experienced youth entrepreneurs to uncover new tactics, meet fellow young business owners, and fuel their entrepreneurial spirit.

The Cool Kids Lemonade Stand in front of G

CITY UPDATES

EYES ON LA MARQUE

Business Conference

The City of La Marque requests your assistance in combating crime through participation in the Voluntary Camera Registry Program. This initiative enables residents and business proprietors to register their video surveillance system locations with the city. In the event of criminal incidents, law enforcement can identify nearby cameras and seek community support in gathering video evidence and pursuing leads.Through this program, the La Marque Police Department may reach out to registered participants who have surveillance systems in areas where crimes occurred. They might request footage from specific

dates and times to investigate crime-related activities, like identifying vehicles or individuals of interest. If relevant video evidence is available, participants can contact the La Marque Police Department at to arrange for video retrieval.

Registration is voluntary, free of charge, and does not grant direct access to your camera by the La Marque Police Department. Personal information remains confidential unless mandated by a court order. Law enforcement personnel investigating crimes near your registered camera may access your information. Participants will only be contacted if there's a criminal incident near their security camera. The police may, if required, request video copies for crime investigations. The program aims to prevent crime and enhance public safety by fostering collaboration between the La Marque Police Department and the community.

By registering, participants agree to: Allow the collection of footage related to criminal activities as evidence in legal proceedings. Participation doesn't imply agency or employment with the City or La Marque Police Department.

EYES ON LA MARQUE

CITY UPDATES

Business Conference

LA MARQUE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Congratulations to the La Marque Public Library for earning the Achievement of Excellence in Libraries Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association, an affiliate of the Texas Municipal League! This prestigious annual award recognizes libraries that excel in providing exceptional services and making significant contributions to their communities.

The library has collaborated with local organizations, including the Galveston County Food Bank's “Kidz Pacz” program, to enroll children in a summer food assistance program and distribute food packs throughout June, July, and August. Additionally, it partners with Texas City ISD and The Salvation Army to offer literacy programs for the Boys & Girls Club, among other initiatives. Ranking in the top 15% of Texas library systems, the La Marque Public Library stands out for its educational resources for all ages and for fostering community connections and support networks. Out of 545 public libraries in Texas, only 84 received the honor this year.

JUNETEENTH ART CONTEST

The City of La Marque announces its inaugural youth art contest for Juneteenth, themed "Gateway to the Next 70 Years." Open to students from elementary to high school, the contest invites young artists to envision the future of La Marque through their artwork. This opportunity allows the city's youth to express their hopes and dreams for their community, with a focus on creativity and innovation. Submissions are due May 17th, 2024.

CIVIC PRIDE

Painted Utility Boxes

In an innovative bid to beautify La Marque, the Keep La Marque Beautiful Commission has teamed up with local artist Gabriel Prusmack, transforming utility boxes into vibrant works of art. This initiative,

funded by the commission's budget, has seen the first of its kind installations at Cedar Dr. and Bayou Rd., and Lake Rd. and Cedar Dr. intersections, infusing the city with color and creativity.

There are plans to expand this beautification effort to continue combining art with urban development in the future.

The project not only aims to enhance La Marque's visual appeal but also to instill community pride and celebrate local talent. Prusmack's distinctive style brings life to these public spaces, turning ordinary objects into focal points of artistic expression.

BUILDING A BETTER TOMORROW

Mahan Boat Ramp

Reconstruction of a new boat ramp in Mahan Park is set to begin this summer. This significant restoration effort will also include a paved parking area, four picnic pavilions along the banks of Highland Bayou, and new pathways. Federal funding for this project, totaling $470,000, has been secured through a generous grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife as well as contributions from the La Marque Parks and Recreation Board and the City of La Marque. Plans for this rebuilding process are scheduled for this summer.

Bird Sanctuary

Observation Deck

The Observation Deck at Highland Bayou Park has recently reopened following a period of restoration. This unique spot, within La Marque's bird sanctuary, offers an unparalleled bird watching experience. Observation decks play a crucial role in offering accessible viewing areas that both reduce human interference with natural habitats and enhance the enjoyment and learning opportunities for guests.

For more information on La Marque’s Parks and Recreation, visit https://www.ci.la-marque.tx.us/Facilities or scan this QR Code.

Development Services

City Permits: Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take to get a building permit approved?

Commercial plans should take 10-20 working days for approval, provided that the

plans submitted contain all the necessary information required. Residential plans should take 5-10 working days.

Is a permit required for a backyard shed? If it is 200 square feet or more in area, then yes. If it is less than 200 square feet, then no. If you live in a subdivision with HOA rules, we advise you to check with them before installing a shed.

Do I need a permit for installing a fence? A permit is not required for the installation of a fence up to 7 feet tall. However please refer to the City of La Marque Code of Ordinances, Sec. 71-21 supplementary regulations or call 409-938-9219 and speak to a permit specialist concerning other requirements to the placement of a fence.

Do I need a permit for repairing my driveway approach or sidewalk? A permit is needed for new sidewalk or driveway construction, adhering to the City's Design Criteria Manual and City Inspector approval. No permit is required for minor repairs like cracks. Expanding a concrete driveway may necessitate a drainage plan and detailed expansion drawings.

How do I get my gas/electric turned on? Hire a plumber/electrician to pull a permit for the work/inspection.

Do I need a permit to hold a garage sale? Yes, the garage sale permit application is online on the City Of La Marque Web Page, under the Development Services tab. There is no fee for this permit.

Health and Safety

OUT TO ALARM TEXAS

The La Marque Fire Department (LMFD) proudly participates in a program known as Out to Alarm Texas which furnishes and installs smoke detectors in qualifying residents’ homes free of charge. Statistics gathered by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have identified that almost three out of five home fire deaths were caused by fires in properties with no smoke alarms (41 percent) or smoke alarms that failed to operate (16 percent). The risk of dying in reported home structure fires is 55 percent lower in homes with working smoke alarms than in homes with no alarms or none that worked. With these statistics in mind, The La Marque Fire Department aims to reduce the occurrence of fire fatalities and serious injuries in our city by providing and installing smoke detectors in homes that need them. To see if you qualify or to schedule the installation of detectors in your home, please call 409-938-9267.

CHILD SAFETY SEAT CHECKS

Did you know that 3 out of 4 car seats are used or installed incorrectly. In 2019, the La Marque Fire Department identified this risk to children in our community and established a program offering free child safety seat installations and inspections. This program is made possible by a partnership with Safe Kids of Greater Houston and Texas Children’s Hospital. The main goal of this program is to educate and provide awareness to our community about child passenger safety. The La Marque Fire Department holds an in-house event on the 4th Thursday of each month which is open to anyone with a new car seat that needs to be installed or an existing seat to ensure proper installation. Individuals are also welcome to schedule an appointment by calling 409-9275006.

Health and Safety

BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY: THE CONCEPT OF THE EMOTIONAL BANK ACCOUNT

Imagine if we treated our city like a giant Emotional Bank Account, where instead of transactions of money, we dealt in acts of kindness, understanding, and mutual respect. This concept isn't just for personal relationships; it can be the foundation of a thriving, cohesive community.

How It Works

Deposits are positive actions: helping a neighbor, participating in community events, or just sharing a smile. These actions build a strong, trusting community.

Withdrawals happen through negative behavior: neglecting communal needs, disrespecting public spaces, or indifference. Too many withdrawals lower trust and weaken our communal bonds.

The Outcome

A community with a healthy Emotional Bank Account is more resilient, cooperative, and vibrant. It's about everyone feeling valued and connected, creating a city that's not just livable, but truly thriving.

A Call To Action

By embracing the Emotional Bank Account concept, we can transform our city into a stronger, more united community. Let's invest in kindness, trust, and cooperation to make our city a better place for all.

Five Key Investments for a Prosperous City

Kindness and Courtesy: Simple acts of kindness are foundational.

1. Support in Absence: Speak well of our community and its members, even when they're not around.

2. Sincere Apologies: Owning up to mistakes and striving to make amends.

3. Clear Expectations: Communicating communal goals to avoid misunderstandings.

5.

4. Keeping Commitments: Following through on promises to the community strengthens our collective trust.

FREE FOR

Spring SpringCleanup Cleanup

CITIZENS OF Yard debris Beds & mattresses

Anything nonhazardous you can fit in the bins.

Document shredding

Gas cans

Batteries (car/regular)

Flammable or combustible items

Paint cans (unless empty or dry)

4916 FM 1765

8:00AM - 2:00PM

1

2 Load shredding or bulk items. Deliver items and be prepared to unload.

AmeriCorps members are making a significant impact in our community by mentoring students at TCISD and GISD schools. Working alongside CIS Site Coordinators and staff, they offer personalized support to enhance educational access and build essential skills. Each member supports 10-15 students, helping them to excel at select schools including Hayley Elementary and Giles Middle School in La Marque, and others in Galveston. This initiative showcases the strength of community support in fostering