WINTER 2024
I N S I D E LA MARQUE Community news from the City of La Marque and the La Marque Economic Development Corporation
Art In The Park
2023 Parks Projects Welcome District C Councilmember Melanie Leyva Allred
New HUBZone In La Marque
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New Coucilmember
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Art in the Park
SBA HUBZone in La Marque
GENE SMITH Chairman La Marque EDC Board ALEX GETTY Executive Director La Marque EDC 409-938-9258 MANDY WOODBURN Public Relations Specialist La Marque EDC 409-938-9255
Table Of
CONTENTS
04 Important Dates
12 Classifications
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New Employees/
Public Works
14 Spotlight
07 Businesses
15 Light Reading
New
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Code Enforcement
06 Corner
Council’s
View our Shine On video series on Youtube by scanning this QR Code
Crime
La Marque EDC 1130 1st Street La Marque, Tx 77568
Employee
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MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Hello Friends, A new year is upon us, and our great city is ready for 2024! As your mayor, I believe our community's word of the year should be "Service." With this in mind, we have exciting opportunities for you to become a part of service to our community. In January, we will have our annual volunteer appreciation breakfast honoring all of our hard-working, selfless volunteers. We will also have a community fair inviting every volunteer agency in La Marque to come out and introduce themselves and solicit volunteers. Let's start with this wonderful opportunity as we think of ways to serve to our community this year. See you there!
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Mayor Keith Bell
Inside La Marque | Fall 2023
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CITY UPDATES WELCOME NEW CITY EMPLOYEES
Melissa Williams Customer Service Representative Utility Billing
Important Dates Regular Council Meeting January 8, 2024 Community Fair January 13, 2024 MLK Parade January 15, 2024 Regular Council Meeting January 22, 2024
Barbie Castro
La Marque High School Ground Breaking Ceremony January 23, 2024
City Receptionist
Regular Council Meeting February 12, 2024 Texas Trail Ride February 17, 2024
Stacey Froeschner Court Administrator
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Regular Council Meeting February 26, 2024 Regular Council Meeting March 11, 2024 Regular Council Meeting March 25, 2024
PUBLIC WORKS Sidewalk Restoration & Construction CITY PROJECT UPDATES Projects
Main Street Sidewalk Project: Replacing 1500 ft of curb/gutter, making 10,650 sq.ft. of 6ft wide sidewalks, including ramps, bike lanes, and markings. Cost: $1.7M, due Fall/Winter 2025. TxDOT's engineering, funded by Federal Transport Alternatives Program. Texas Avenue Sidewalks: Part of TXDOT's road improvements on FM 1765. New sidewalks, driveways, signals, and lighting from I-45 to Vauthier. TxDOT covers the $1.5M cost, ending Fall-Winter 2024. Highway 3 Sidewalks: TxDOT's Highway 3 sidewalks from Main St. to Texas Ave, linking to the Emancipation Trail Project. TxDOT's $4.4M project. Due Fall/Winter 2025. No cost to the City.
Improvements Underway on Westlawn & Westwood Westlawn Stormwater: New pipelines and inlets for stormwater collection on Melody Dr. and Merry Ln., extending to Westward Ave. Grading upgrades planned for the area east of Westward. Estimated cost: $1.8M. 65% completed, expected to finish Spring 2024. Westwood Stormwater (Phase 2): Enhancing drainage systems on both east and west ends to mitigate ponding and repair road damage. Project in Westwood Subdivision with an estimated cost of $300,000. Expected completion: Summer 2024. Funding through Bond Proceeds.
Street Lighting Improvements The City has undertaken a long-term effort to replace existing streetlights with LED fixtures to provide cleaner, brighter lighting throughout the area. There are 1084 streetlights in the City, with 700 serviced by Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP) and the remaining by CenterPoint Energy (CPE). Phase 1 of the Streetlighting (STL) Improvement Project is in the conversion process – upgrading to LED, with an estimated completion date of Fall/Winter 2024 and an estimated cost of $85,000. Phase 2 will add additional STL on main corridors in the city with an estimated completion date of Fall/Winter 2025 and an estimated cost of $900,000. Phase 3 will add additional STL in residential areas undeserved by lighting with an estimated completion date of Winter 2027 and an estimated cost of $1M. The total project is anticipated to take 3-5 years depending on funding availability. Inside La Marque | WINTER 2024
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COUNCIL'S CORNER WELCOME NEW COUNCILMEMBER DISTRICT C
MELANIE LEYVA ALLRED WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO RUN FOR COUNCIL? I decided to run for city council because I wanted to bring additional transparency and honesty to the citizens of La Marque. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE PRIORITIES FOR YOUR DISTRICT? My top three priorities for my district are to make sure the citizen’s voices feel heard, to make our city feel safer, and to get our community united once again for the betterment of our city.
ABOUT OUR NEW COUNCIL MEMBER I was born and raised in Galveston. I have three grown sons, three grandchildren and I work as a project coordinator for a custom home builder. I have lived in La Marque for seven years with my husband Josh who has been in law enforcement for 27 years. In my free time I like to do anything my grandkids are involved in, BBQ cookoffs and spending time with my family. I have strong family values and I am very close with my siblings. 6
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WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY FOR THE CITY OF LA MARQUE AS A WHOLE? My top priority for La Marque as a whole is to make our citizens feel safer in their community. WHY DO YOU LOVE LA MARQUE? I love La Marque because we are a small community with so much potential. We are growing but you still have the small town closeness and hospitality that I hope continues to grow and get handed down to the younger generation to come. All answers provided by Councilmember Melissa Allred
NEW BUSINESSES IN LA MARQUE BOBCAT OF HOUSTON 320 DELANY RD., LA MARQUE Bobcat dealer that carries new and used Earth moving equipment, compact excavators, all wheel loaders, skid steer loaders, utility vehicles, compact tractors, and other machinery. Reach out today! 281-640-3002 Open M-F 7:30 am-5:00 pm
AR’S ENTERTAINMENT HUB COMING SPRING 2024 14001 GULFWAY PLAZA AR’s Entertainment Hub is the go-to spot for family fun in the area! With arcade games, laser tag, an XR Arena, mini-golf and more, there's something for everyone. Located near the Amazon Distribution Center in Gulfway Plaza, it's the perfect place for friends, family, and co-workers to meet, eat and play!
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Inside La Marque | WINTER 2024
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ART IN THE PARK Sidewalk Sensory This project at Walter L. Feigle, Jr. Park is about more than sidewalk painting. It's a chance for students to take pride in their community and feel accomplished by making a positive impact.
By contributing to something larger, they learn how small actions create big changes. The sensory sidewalk isn't just a one-time thing – it's a lasting legacy they can proudly point to, saying, "I helped create that awesome sidewalk for all the kids in La Marque." Handpicked 4th and 5th graders from Hayley Elementary, chosen for their academics and behavior, joined in as positive role models. La Marque aims to beautify the city by offering art in the park, attracting more kids to visit. Involving the students in the project gives them ownership and encourages park visits with family and friends, promoting outdoor activities over electronics.
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La Marque Parks and Recreation
La Marque Parks and Recreation
Trash Barrel Project Schools, groups, organizations, and businesses are painting 55-gallon blue trash barrels for the Art in the Parks Trash Barrel Project. They're choosing themes like bayou ecosystems, Texas, recreation activities, bird sanctuaries, butterfly habitats, native plants, and trees. Our aim is to boost park art, improve scenery, and promote keeping city parks and waterways clean. Huge thanks to our Barrel Sponsors: Valero Refinery, Texas City, Texas, and Evergreen North America Industrial Services, and to all the barrel participants!
Sidewalk Story Art
Local artists, Meghan Miller, Sasha Lambert, Shae Clarkson, and Taslyn McClure did a great job of recreating cover art from children's literature classics. The titles were selected based on popular titles for children that have stood the test of time. Being in a park setting, the art celebrates the joy of literature while encouraging physical activity and outdoor engagement. We hope that coming to see and experience the art in the park will be a fun and enriching experience that will be enjoyed by generations of visitors.
La Marque Library was thrilled to partner with the La Marque Parks Board, Hayley Elementary, and local artists on sensory sidewalks and the Art in the Park project. We hope that the addition of the art will encourage more visitors both to Walter Feigel Park and to La Marque Public Library.
Inside La Marque | WINTER 2024
La Marque Parks and Recreation
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LA MARQUE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LA MARQUE ANNOUNCES THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NEW HUBZONE In a significant move aimed at spurring economic growth and creating local job opportunities, the City of La Marque and the La Marque Economic Development Corporation are proud to announce the designation of a new Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) within its boundaries. The La Marque Economic Development Corporation collaborated with the Office of the Texas Governor to help achieve these results. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) HUBZones are crucial tools for empowering small businesses and fostering economic development in under-served communities. The new HUBZone designation in La Marque is expected to have a profound impact on the local economy by encouraging business growth, investment, and employment opportunities in the designated area. “The inclusion of this area will certainly create the opportunity for businesses in La Marque to better contend for competitive set-aside contracts,” says La Marque Mayor Keith Bell. “We hope it will stimulate capital investment and increase employment opportunities in our city.” The La Marque HUBZone will serve as a catalyst for revitalization and prosperity within the community. HUBZones are designed to provide incentives for businesses to locate in historically disadvantaged areas and hire employees residing in those areas, thereby stimulating economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents. 10
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To check eligibility and resources available, scan this QR code or visit sba.gov/hubzone
The benefits of the newly designated HUBZone in La Marque will provide federal contracting opportunities, job creation, investment attraction, and increased economic vitality. La Marque Economic Development Corporation's Executive Director, Alex Getty, expressed enthusiasm for the new HUBZone designation, stating, "The new La Marque HUBZone is another step toward a brighter future for our community." Local businesses interested in taking advantage of the HUBZone program are encouraged to visit the U.S. Small Business Administration HUBZone website for information on eligibility and resources available to support their growth within the newly designated HUBZone.
SIGN IMPROVEMENT GRANT The La Marque Economic Development Corporation (LMEDC) is excited to announce a new incentive program to assist with business signage. This new program will help improve business exposure and therefore, assist in retaining jobs in the City of La Marque. The program was discussed at a recent joint meeting between the LMEDC and La Marque City Council. In October 2023, the LMEDC Board of Directors approved the new sign grant initiative designed to help promote active La Marque businesses by financially assisting business owners with the purchase of improved signage at their for-profit business. Requests for sign improvement funds must be approved by the La Marque Economic Development Corporation prior to ordering a new sign. The straightforward application is user-friendly and simple by design. Once approved, the business will enter into a grant agreement with LMEDC. Every effort should be made to obtain quotes from La Marque sign companies. Below are some of the pertinent details regarding the process. Once approved by the LMEDC Board of Directors, LMEDC shall pay 100% of the sign cost, up to $5,000. The payment will be made directly to the sign company within 30 days of receiving a copy of the City of La Marque permit (if applicable), invoice and any required finance forms. If the sign cost is more than $5,000, the applicant must pay the difference to the sign company before the payment from LMEDC is made. Earlier this year, LMEDC announced the innovative chamber grant, which has been proven popular and has already been implemented in a neighboring community. To see if you qualify for a Sign Improvement Grant or to view other initiatives the EDC has to offer, visit LMEDC.com or scan this QR code.
Inside La Marque | WINTER 2024
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EXPLORE THE WORLD
CRIME CLASSIFICATIONS An article by La Marque Police Chief Randall Aragon Understanding the legal landscape of our Lone Star State is vital for every resident. Texas, like many other states, operates with a clear division of crimes: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are less severe infractions, while felonies encompass the most serious offenses. The Texas Penal Code outlines these distinctions and their respective consequences, aiming to maintain law and order within our communities. Let's delve deeper into the categories and penalties associated with misdemeanors and felonies in Texas. Misdemeanors here are grouped into three levels: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class C misdemeanors involve minor offenses like disorderly conduct or city ordinance violations and can lead to fines up to $500. They are typically handled by municipal or Justice of the Peace Courts. Moving up the scale, Class B misdemeanors, such as driving while intoxicated, may incur fines up to $2,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.
At the highest level of misdemeanors, Class A, the fines can reach up to $4,000 with potential imprisonment for up to one year. These more serious misdemeanors fall under the jurisdiction of higher courts like the constitutional county court or county court of law.
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Felonies, on the other hand, are the most severe crimes and are exclusively handled at the District Court level. Texas recognizes five classifications of felonies. State jail felonies, the least severe, can result in fines up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment for two years. Moving up the scale, third-degree felonies carry fines and/or imprisonment up to 10 years, followed by seconddegree felonies, which may lead to 20 years of imprisonment. First-degree felonies come with fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment of up to 99 years or life for offenses like theft of high-value property. And finally, the gravest level of felony in Texas is the capital felony, primarily associated with crimes like murder, which could result in capital punishment, namely execution. The Texas criminal justice system hinges on the enforcement of these laws outlined in the Texas Penal Code. It's crucial for every citizen to comprehend the consequences of violating these laws and to communicate them to loved ones. Remember, the purpose of these penalties is to deter criminal behavior and uphold the safety and sanctity of our communities.
LA MARQUE ENHANCES SAFETY: CODE ENFORCEMENT JOINS FIRE DEPARTMENT
Introducing Jose Hernandez, Your New Code Enforcement Supervisor
WHAT STRATEGIES DO YOU BELIEVE ARE CRUCIAL FOR PROMOTING COMMUNITY SAFETY AWARENESS AMONG EMPLOYEES OR RESIDENTS? Communication, education, organization, and voluntary compliance.
In a strategic move, La Marque has shifted its Code Enforcement division from Development Services to the Fire Department. This change aims to strengthen safety measures and improve regulatory compliance, especially where fire safety and building codes intersect. By integrating Code Enforcement with the Fire Department, La Marque seeks unified oversight to ensure a safer environment. This collaboration promises streamlined operations and better service delivery, prioritizing the safety of residents and businesses alike. This proactive realignment demonstrates La Marque's commitment to evolving safety standards and fostering a secure community.
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THIS ROLE? I started in 2007 with Manvel's Public Works Department. An opportunity opened to be a Code Enforcement Officer with the Fire Marshall's office in 2014. After 7 years, I moved to the City of Pearland. I was there for a little over a year. In 2023, I came to the City of La Marque, the city I was born in, as the Code Enforcement Supervisor. WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES AND INTERESTS? I like to play music and golf. WHAT ASPECTS OF YOUR NEW ROLE ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO? Helping the community, safety, and growth. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A CODE ENFORCEMENT SUPERVISOR? Professional growth, the ability to work closely with the Fire Marshall's office, and help the beautification and growth of La Marque. Inside La Marque | WINTER 2024
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
MARTIN SAUCEDO ◊ What is your favorite part about working for the City of La Marque? The opportunities that the city has given me to make my job into a career.
◊ What is something people would be surprised to learn about you? I was born in Mexico to migrant workers. I even picked cucumbers until I was 7.
◊ What do you do in your free time? What free time? I have a newborn little girl and a pre-teen son at home. There is no free time, but I wouldn't have it any other way. DEPARTMENT:
PUBLIC WORKS
TITLE: PLANT OPERATOR II
START DATE: AUGUST 2016
◊ How do you define success?
◊ Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I currently hold a (B) level license in groundwater and am working towards my (B) level license in wastewater. I want to achieve the highest double (A) license level and run my own department.
Success is the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure. Success and hard work go hand-in-hand.
BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION Martin oversees mechanical devices, conducts inspections on pumps, and samples water and wastewater. He manages equipment shutdowns and startups, maintains logs, runs tests, analyzes results, and adjusts processes. He operates and maintains process control equipment, ensuring smooth plant operations. Martin trains staff to comply with TCEQ standards, monitors variables, and makes necessary changes. He's accountable for water and wastewater treatment plant operations and maintenance. 14
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Light Reading Book Reviews from the La Marque Public Library Recommendation from Tom Hansen: Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay Seven-year-old Wen, on vacation in New Hampshire, encounters Leonard, a towering figure. Leonard, kind yet urgent, believes only Wen and her parents can avert an apocalypse. With grave decisions ahead, the fate of her family, perhaps the world, rests on their choices—a haunting and suspenseful tale unfolds.
Recommendation from Princess Baldwin: Spy x Family vol.1 by Tatsuya Endo Every chapter had me on edge to see what would happen next. The lengths taken to keep secret identities a secret get grander as the story progresses. With the perfect mix of action and comedy, I would read this one over and over. I can’t wait for volume 2!
Recommendation from Amy Miller: The Light We Give: How Sikh Wisdom Can Transform Your Life by Simran Jeet Singh Singh, the lone Sikh in a San Antonio neighborhood, endured racism and cruelty. His memoir explores how Sikh principles guided him through life's trials, shedding light on his journey. Delving into Sikh history and culture, this inspirational memoir offers profound insights for fans of spiritual narratives.
Recommendation from Sarah Tamayo: Dinosaur vs. The Library by Bob Shea This colorful picture book will have young readers excited with anticipation as the main character, a dinosaur, roars his way to the library. My favorite part about this book is that it gives readers opportunities to make various animal noises. If you are looking for an interactive story to engage readers, this one is for you!
Visit the La Marque Public Library website
1111 Bayou Road La Marque, TX 77568 1111 Bayou Road La Marque, TX 77568
Public Works Projects Continued from page 5
Sanitary Sewer Improvements Manhole Restoration and Sanitary Pipeline Lining (rehabilitation) – Perform restoration work on 375 manholes and interior PVC lining of 17,300 feet of sanitary sewer pipelines (various locations) Construction Cost = $5.6M – funded through Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Grant Program, through the Texas General Land Office. Estimated Completion Date – Fall/Winter 2024 Lift Station Rehabilitation – Four (4) of the existing 21 wastewater pumping facilities (lift station) will be completed and rehabilitated to ensure efficient and dependable operations for the next 15-20 years. Construction Cost = $3.1M - – funded through Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) Grant Program, through the Texas General Land Office. Estimated Completion Date – Fall 2025 Sanitary Sewer Pipeline Repairs – Bayou Road & Main Street and Erickson Street & Main Street – Repair deficiencies in two (2) separate sanitary sewer pipelines. Construction Cost = $350,000 - funded with 2016 Bond proceeds. Estimated Completion Date – Summer 2024