April City Matters

City Matters APRIL 2016

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3 4 15 CABELA’S GRAND OPENING LE AG U E CI T Y’S F I RS T D E S TI N ATI O N R E TA IL • City refinances bonds • Did You know?

• Safe Exchange Zone

T

he City of League City welcomed, Cabela’s, as they opened their doors to the public on March 17.

Cabela’s, the first destination retailer of its kind in League City, standing 72,000 square feet of high, features log construction, hunting, fishing, camping gear, archery range, tech room, gun library and various other types of outdoor supplies.

“The City of League City is proud to welcome Cabela’s to our community,” said Mark Rohr, City Manager. “This leading national outdoor retail store is the only one within the greater Houston area and is expected to draw patrons within a 100-plus mile radius.”

Destination retailers, such as Cabela’s, are important because they bring in non-resident sales tax revenue into the City. The sales tax revenue generated from destination retail help lighten the tax burden on residents and fund improvement projects for the City.

“We anticipate the store opening to become a boon for nearby restaurants, retailers and

Meet League City’s newly elected officials

hoteliers,” said Rick Beverlin, Director of Economic Development. “It also serves as the anchor in the 100-acre Pinnacle Park development which our community will see being developed as a major mixed use and retail center over the next several years.”

Major League Quidditch comes to League City

Photo by: Rhequan Robinson

The first 500 customers recieved gift cards

The collaborative partnership formed between the City, Cabela’s, and the property developer since site work began in 2014 was crucial to bringing destination retail to League City.

Cabela’s is located at 2421 S. Gulf Freeway and will anchor a new retail development at the intersection of Interstate 45 and Big League Dreams Parkway near Kohl’s, H-E-B Grocery and Big League Dreams Sports Park.

Photo by: Rhequan Robinson

Each customer walked in to a warm welcome by Cabela’s employees

The League City Cabela’s is the company’s sixth location in Texas.

Employment estimates for Cabela’s are more than 200 full-time, part-time and seasonal staff who more than likely live within League City and the surrounding communities.

Photo by: Rhequan Robinson

It was estimated that over 2,000 people participated in the grand opening.

CITY COUNCIL Pat Hallisey

City Finances portion of property taxes. A portion of the water utility charges received are also used to pay the annual principal and interest on outstanding debt. The Debt Service Funds are segregated from other funds for this purpose and to meet bond reserve requirements.

Property taxes, building permits, water bills, swimming lessons registration, grants from the federal government, late fees on library books, ambulance charges, speeding tickets … the City receives a variety of funds from a variety of sources.

How do we keep track of it all? Especially, when some funds can only be spent on specific activities. How do we make sure this is happening?

Day-to-day, that is my responsibility. I manage the City’s finances and ensure the funds received are properly accounted for and only spent on eligible expenses. As we approach the upcoming budget planning cycle, I think it’s important to breakdown the types of funds we operate with and how each of these funds are used.

At your house, you may have one or two bank accounts – a checking and a savings; or as we do at my house, one for my husband and one for me. If we compared the City’s finances to our household accounts, rather than one or two checkbooks, you would find that the City has 57.

The 57 checkbooks, or funds, are grouped into seven major categories:

Special Revenue Funds consist of grants, gifts, designated fees and taxes which are segregated and may only be used for specific purposes. This makes up 22 funds and had a combined balance of $9.2 million at the end of the last fiscal year that may only be used for defined activities.

Some of these funds include the: • 4B Maintenance and Operation Fund. Funds received from the 4B Corporation for the maintenance and operation of Hometown Heroes Park and other amateur sports and athletic facilities constructed by the 4B Corporation. (The 4B Corporation is a separate entity created by our residents through a ¼-cent specific use sales tax election.)

• Library Gift Fund. Funds received from private donors to be used for the benefit of the Helen Hall Library.

• Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund. The local hotel occupancy taxes, which is collected at a rate of 6%, on all hotel rooms in League City. Funds from this account may only be spent on activities as defined by state law that promote tourism.

• Public Access Channel Fund. This fund consists of local tax revenue that is paid on cable television service and may only be spent on activities as defined in state law that improves public access television broadcasts.

• Public Safety Technology Fund.

This fund receives reimbursement from participating area law enforcement agencies for the maintenance of a central, cooperative information system.

Mayor (281) 910-0182 pat.hallisey@leaguecity.com

Dan Becker Position 1 (281) 554-1028 dan.becker@leaguecity.com

Hank Dugie

Position 2 (281) 768-0145 hank.dugie@leaguecity.com

Heidi Hansing

Position 3 (281) 299-5926 heidi.hansing@leaguecity.com

Todd Kinsey

Mayor Pro Tem / Position 4 (832) 273-9692 todd.kinsey@leaguecity.com

Geri Bentley

Position 5 (281) 610-7003 geri.bentley@leaguecity.com

Keith Gross

Position 6 (281) 554-1028 keith.gross@leaguecity.com

Nick Long

Position 7 (281) 299-7142 nick.long@leaguecity.com

Mark Rohr City Manager

CITY MATTERS STAFF Communications Director Angel Lopez

Communications Coordinator Bridget Kramer Communications Specialist Quan Robinson COMMENTS?

Debt Service Funds are a legally restricted

2 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016

(continued on page 7)

Communications@leaguecity.com (281) 554-1025 City Matters is published quarterly by the City of League City.

City refinances bonds,

saves taxpayers $2.6 million League City recently saved $2.6 million through the refinancing of three bonds.

The refinanced bonds included Certificates of Obligation from 2008 and 2009 along with water and sewer revenue bonds from 2009.

“We’re always looking for ways to save money,” said Rebecca Underhill, Assistant City Manager and Director of Finance. “Based on lower interest rates and market conditions, we were able to refund our current bonds at a lower interest rate and through the use of dedicated bond reserves and premiums reduce total debt outstanding.”

League City’s financial rating of Aa2 from Moody’s helped secure the favorable rates.

“A large and growing tax base, strong resident wealth levels, a favorable socioeconomic profile, a stable financial position and strong financial management were key factors in the rating we received from Moody’s,” said Underhill. “This enabled us to be competitive and achieve the lowest overall interest rate for the City.”

The City was able to realize an interest cost of 2.39% and save $2.6 million, or an 8.2% net present value savings, reducing the City’s future debut service cost and overall debt.

The refunding transaction will reduce future annual debt service payments an average of $334,000. Savings will be shared between the property taxpayers and water utility rate payer because the bond refinanced both tax supported and water utility bonds.

DID YOU KNOW? City Council Meetings Live Stream Running late or can’t make it the City Council meeting? The City of League City recently launched a streaming video service capability that allows citizens to watch City Council Meetings live or on-demand. Additional features for the new video service include indexed meetings (citizens will be able to click on a particular agenda item and watch without having to view the entire meeting), the ability to playback meetings on-demand from a computer, tablet or phone. Visit www. leaguecity.com/CityCouncilMeetings to watch your City Council in action.

City Budget Process FY 16/17 Kick-off League City has kicked off the budget season with their first staff meeting at the end of March. Completing the budget is a long process beginning with staff input, than one on one meetings with the City Manager, multiple budget work sessions to discuss with City Council and the public and finally adoption of the budget by formal Ordinance at a regular City Council meeting. To get more information on the budget at any time go to: www.budgetinfographics.com/leaguecity.

Construction Update The City of League City is working hard to grow and develop the city. As the City continues to grow, residents may encounter construction.

Up-to-date information on construction projects are posted at www.leaguecity.com/ DocumentCenter/View/13636

SAFE EXCHANGE

ZONE

Remember safely exchanging legal items with a stranger is safer at your League City Police Department. Our well-lit parking lot has security cameras. Day or night, we encourage our citizens to utilize our parking lot as a Safe Exchange Zone.

Notify Me The Notify Me system sends an SMS or email notification when the City posts information to the website. Sign-up for a variety of subjects or the weekly City Manager’s Update today. Looking for pertinent information on emergencies? Sign-up for to the ‘Emergency Notifications’ under news flash. Visit www. leaguecity.com and click on the gold tab, named Notify Me, on the left side of the website to begin receiving notifications today.

Social Media Updates Are you social media savvy? The City posts updates on its social media pages as another avenue for information for the League City community.

www.leaguecity.com 3

MEET LEAGUE CITY’S

The City of League City officially welcomed two new council members during a swearing-in ceremony on March 29, 2016 in the City Council Chambers.

Mayor Pat Hallisey and Councilman Hank Dugie received their oath of office from City Secretary, Diana Stapp, after City Council passed a resolution canvassing the returns of the Special Election held on March 19. The newest council members will serve an unexpired term ending in November 2018.

Here’s your first official opportunity to meet the City’s newest council members!

Greetings, Let me begin by thanking each and every person who participated in the recent election.

League City has been my home for more than 41 years and I love this community, the people and everything that makes us who we are. As your newly elected Mayor, I am eager to jump in and work with my fellow Council members to continue making League City the best community.

I love this City – I can’t say that enough. It’s important to make your mark in a community and get involved because a home is home, but a community is a family and the effort you put in to a community reflects what you get out of it. Throughout the years, I’ve jumped in to every Pat Hallisey civic thing that ever came down the pike and made a life for my family. I’m proud to say that MAYOR my participation in the Lion’s Club, Holiday in the Park, League City Proud, Bay Area Boy Scout Council, JCs, St. Mary’s Catholic Church and many other organizations throughout our community has had a tremendous impact on my life.

I had an opportunity to meet many League City residents – both old and new – throughout my campaign. Many had one thing in common – they chose League City as their home. Our residents are invested in this community and were interested in learning more about the City, how it operates and having their voice heard. So, I challenge our community, our citizens to get involved. Remember, our community is what we make of it.

League City has a bright future. We haven’t even cracked the shell on what we’re going to do and I’m looking forward to working with the rest of the City Council and staff to achieve new heights for League City.

Development, mobility issues, water and infrastructure are challenges our City faces. All issues impacting the quality of life we lead. And, as we continue to grow, it’s critical that we work together to develop the City strategically and maintain our sense of community.

Lastly, let’s take a moment to thank the people who help make League City the best place to live – our staff. Our staff is the backbone of everything we do and we’ve got a great team in place. Thank you for all that you do and continue to do to make our community safe, keep the water running, our streets functional, hosting a variety of community events and everything else it takes to run a city.

I’ve had a great public career – more than a little boy from the Southside of Houston could have ever imagined. And, I’m proud to continue the next chapter of my career as your mayor.

I’m energized and ready to hit the ground running. Let’s have some fun!

Mayor Pat Hallisey

4 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016

NEWLY ELECTED OFFICIALS

I’m Hank Dugie, newly elected council member and lifelong League City resident – who was born and raised here. I’m the oldest of eight siblings who graduated from Clear Creek High School in 2008. After college, I went off to the University of Texas in Austin and received a degree in economics. I then came back to League City as soon as I could. Now, I practice real estate and also run a company - it’s a family business and we do landscaping and construction.

Why run for public office?

I love League City, I love my neighbors, I love the people. Always had a heart for service and have been involved in the city my whole life. It’s kind of a natural next step in terms of giving of my time and energy. I think that I have a knack for listening to people and a knack for researching and finding out information. My passion for serving people paired with those skills has prepared me for this role and this is just one way, one avenue to do that.

Hank Dugie

What do you see as the three challenges, opportunities and/or issues impacting League City?

Bring people together, infrastructure, emergency services, and taking care of the people that are taking care of us. The first, and most important challenge, I see is bringing people together on City Council and citywide. I want everyone to know that we are in it together.

COUNCIL MEMBER POSITION 2

We are all passionate about making League City the greatest in the country. We want people that live here to know and experience all the great things that go along with living here, too. And, that is done by living life with joy and caring about one another, because even if you disagree if people know that you care about one another we can get through that and go on to the next thing.

Tangible topics that are going to be important for the City going forward are infrastructure, addressing and making sure we have enough water, and enough of the right type of roads so there is not traffic backups for 45 minutes throughout the City. Drainage, emergency services and making sure that we are taking care of our police officers, because they go above and beyond their job duty really in League City. We have a smaller force for the size of the City that we have, but because they are such high quality we are able to live in safe neighborhoods and our kids are able to go to safe schools.

What are priorities for the time at Council?

The three things we just discussed. The challenges I think are opportunities for improvement, but I’m not opposed to listening to people. I think I’m very smart and well educated, but I know there are people out there who are smarter and more educated than I am or even people who have different life views that can contribute to the conversation.

I’m going to tackle anything that comes up with earnest. The three things I mentioned - infrastructure, bringing people together and emergency services - are important, but that doesn’t mean that there are no other things that won’t come up.

What is the one thing you would like the community to know about you?

The most important thing I want everyone to know is that I love League City and I’m going to take care of it to the best of my ability. Being the oldest of eight siblings has shaped who I am today. I like to look out for and take care of people. I plan on treating League City, the same way. I am going to do what I think is best. I’m going to listen, learn and try to grow every day so I am the best possible councilman for the City.

Contact Information Mayor Pat Hallisey - (281) 910-0182 - pat.hallisey@leaguecity.com Councilman Hank Dugie - (281) 768-0145 - hank.dugie@leaguecity.com Contact information for all City Council members along with their biographies are also available at www.leaguecity.com/citycouncil.

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Volunteer Fire Department recruits, trains League City Volunteer Fire Department is comprised of individuals from all types of backgrounds ranging from NASA engineers, business owners, plant workers, stay at home parents, college students and many more from our community.

In order to join the department the City requires the following: a background check, pass a physical, complete an interview and attend the academy. The interview process will help explain what is needed of you and give you a chance to ask what you can expect from the department.

Most of the hands on classes will be at the training field located on North Kansas in League City. Classes will also be held at one of the five fire stations across town. If the volunteer has a Texas Basic Certification they do not have to take the academy class, all they have to take is 17 hours of Department Orientation Training. Classes for the current volunteers began Feb. 1, 2016.

Remember fire safety while spring cleaning Fact: Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported home fires in half.

• Ensure smoke alarms are installed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.

• Test them at least once a month by pushing the test button.

• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year.

If an alarm “chirps,” warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.

Fact: The leading cause of home clothes dryer fires is failure to clean them.

• Clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry.

Remove lint that has collected around the drum.

• Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, like boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing.

Fact: Most cooking fires in the home involve the stovetop.

• Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.

• Always stay in the kitchen when frying on the stovetop.

Fact: Extension cord fires outnumbered fires beginning with permanent or detachable power cords by two-to-one.

• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use.

• Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets so you don’t have to use extension cords.

6 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016

LCVFD honors volunteer firefighters The League City Volunteer Fire Department hosted its annual awards for 2015 on March 29 at the Johnnie Arolfo Civic Center. Awards presented include: City Appreciation Awards to League City’s Parks Recreation and Parks and Cultural Services and the City Attorney’s Office for their support and responsiveness in addressing the needs of the Volunteer Fire Department; Most Trainings Award: James Werner; Most Runs/Calls Award: Kevin Kasten; Rookie of the Year - East Side: Johanna Milam; Rookie of the Year - West Side: David Brown; President’s Award: Tamara Boegler; Chief’s Award: Steven DeVillier; Fire Officer of the Year: Kevin Karban; Firefighter of the Year: Trey Kirkpatrick Karban was selected as the Fire Officer of the Year for his his leadership, dedication and fairness in his role as lieutenant during 2015.

Karban, now a captain, is a top responder every year and always finds time to mentor those coming through the ranks. He has taken on several challenging roles throughout the year and met each challenge head on with enthusiasm and attention to detail.

Kirkpatrick was selected as the Firefighter of the Year for his dedication to the department. He has taken on the role of academy coordinator with full force and spends four months each year dedicated to the future of cadets entering the department, all while maintaining above-par participation in fire calls and station trainings. He continuously seeks out education for himself to pass along to our newest members and ensure they have the tools they need to join the ranks. This is his second recognition for the award.

Length of service pins were also presented to Natalie Perrone, Craig Corder, Michael Rawls, Brandon Simpson, Diego Lopez, William Lambert, and Christopher Kanyuck for five-years of service; Dennis Rogers, Brock Howe, Ruben Freeman, and Val Bernal for 10 years of service; Greg Bozdech for 15 years of service; and Rick Lucas, John Park and David Brandt for 20 years of service.

City Finances (continued from page 2) Capital Projects Fund make-up the majority of City funds, $74 million, designated for capital projects. Capital Projects Funds come from a variety of sources, including bond proceeds, and are restricted for capital project construction. All capital projects funds are used to finance the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). This plan includes $339 million of projects to be constructed through the next 5 years. Some capital project revenue sources carry additional restrictions. For example, capital recovery fees are received from new development and may only be used for capital improvements that expand the water and wastewater system capacity.

Internal Service Funds are a funding mechanism to centralize costs for operating costs shared by other funds (e.g., employee health insurance, vehicle maintenance and capital replacement). The reserves from these funds are held to cover future benefit costs and equipment purchases.

Component Units are funds held by the City on behalf of the Public Improvement Districts and Tax Increment Financing Zones. Each funding source may only be used under the terms of specific development agreements for the designated projects within the defined boundaries of the districts or zones.

The Water Utility Fund is a dedicated fund that receives the user fees for water and wastewater services. These revenues are set aside for the operation and capital improvement costs of the utility system. Water utility revenue is very volatile and effected greatly by the weather. A ‘fund balance’ is maintained to assure operating funds are available in the future and to meet emergency needs.

The General Fund consists of property taxes, sales taxes, and other undesignated funds that are considered ‘general revenue.’ The general fund utilizes this broad variety of sources for the operation of the general government functions such as police, fire, public works, library, parks, administration, etc. Prudent business practice and City financial policies require balances (savings) be maintained for future projects, emergencies and unanticipated needs in this fund.

We take great pride in upholding the highest standards when managing the City’s finances with professionalism, integrity and transparency.

The City’s investment report, audits, interim financial reports, proposed and adopted budgets, and much more information are available on the City’s Financial Transparency page at www.leaguecity.com/financereports.

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8 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016

Hurricane Preparedness While previous year’s hurricane seasons may have been uneventful for League City, it is important to stay vigilant and prepared. A “slow” hurricane season doesn’t matter to the communities that are impacted by a storm. As a matter of fact, some of the most devastating storms to impact Texas have occurred during those slow years. The City of League City urges its residents to BE INFORMED and BE PREPARED! BE INFORMED League City Emergency Information and Resources • Storm-related information will be available on League City’s website, www.leaguecity.com, www.readylc.com LCTV Channel 16, and the City’s various social media platforms.

• Sign up for League City’s emergency and public outreach notification system. Blackboard Connect can send general information and emergency messages to home and cell phones, email, and texting devices. Look for the button at leaguecity.com, and register your information.

BE PREPARED Create an Emergency Plan • Hurricane hazards come in many forms – storm surge, high winds, tornadoes, and flooding. This means it is important for your family to have a plan that includes all of these hazards. Visit www.readylc.com and www.ready.gov for information and tips on how you can be better prepared and feel free to contact the office of emergency management at (281) 554.1300 or lcoem@leaguecity.com with any questions.

EVACUATE • Be on the lookout for evacuation orders from the City and county.

• Following evacuation orders and instructions is always encouraged, especially for residents with special medical needs.

• If you or someone you know needs assistance evacuating, please call the 2-1-1 Texas Helpline to register. Once registered, the League City Office of Emergency Management will contact you to discuss your needs.

• Determine where you will go if the city calls for an evacuation. Don’t forget to include your pets in the plan.

• Secure your home before you leave.

• Plan to stay where you are for several days while the city restores essential services.

• If you cannot evacuate, be prepared to live without power and water for a week or more – no matter the size of the storm.

GET THE INSURANCE YOU NEED • There are separate policies for homeowner, windstorm and flood insurances.

• All residents are encouraged to purchase flood insurance. You do not have to live in a designated floodplain to purchase flood insurance. Windstorm insurance typically does not cover storm surge • Familiarize yourself with your insurance policies, and address any questions with your agent or company.

• Remember – it typically takes 30 days for insurance policies to be activated, so don’t wait!

New Employees The City of League City staff is dedicated to providing first-class customer service to its residents. This past quarter League City welcomed the following individuals as the newest members to the team: Jose Araujo.......................................................... Traffic Tech II Candace Blalock............................................... Project Manager Kyle Brillantes........................................................ Library Page Jeffery Bryant................................................... Detention Officer Cary Fullen.......................................... Police Officer-Cert-Probation Jayne Gilker.............................................Office Support Assistant Martin Griggs.............................................................. Planner Weston Heck........................................... Utility Maintenance Tech Alicia Hernandez............................................... Recreation Aide Heather James................................................. Telecommunicator Seth King ........................................... Police Officer-Cert-Probation

Manuel Martinez....................................................... Lifeguard Spencer Pilutti ..................................................... Pool Manager Cryselda Ramirez...................................................... Lifeguard Darron Ray......................................... Heavy Equipment Operator Claudia Restrepo.................................................. Accountant II Cristoval Rios....................................... Heavy Equipment Operator Jatniel Rolon-Rivera.................................. Utility Maintenance Tech Kimberly Sullivan.............................. Human Resources Coordinator Adam Tanner.......................................... Code Compliance Officer Nicole Winter..................................... Human Resources Generalist

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Ghirardi House: Preserve history, honor Italian heritage Ghirardi Farm House, located at Heritage Park at Wisconsin Ave. and Coryell St. City Council funded $50,000 in restoration; Patrons of the Park Foundation is seeking donations for the remaining $50,0000 needed to restore the home to its original condition.

Donations for this restoration project can be made to the Patrons of the Park Foundation by calling (281) 5541156.

Butler Longhorn Museum will host an Italian Heritage Ghirardi Museum Fundraiser Dinner on April 29 from The Ghirardi House is a turn of the century home from 5:30 to 8 p.m. and a Festival on April 30 from 10 the early 1900’s. The Ghirardi Family was one of the a.m. to 6 p.m. at Butler Longhorn Museum, located at original families that settled in League City. They were 1220 Coryell Street. The event will include live music Italian farmers who grew fruits and vegtables for much of performance, vendors, silent auction, art show, a kids’ the town during that time. zone, and food. Details on the event are available at www.butlerlonghornmuseum.com.

The home was moved in 2002 from the original Ghiriardi Homestead on the corner of FM 518 and Louisiana Avenue and awaits funding for restoration.

The Ghirardi home, once refurbished and converted to a museum, will be a great asset to the Butler Longhorn Museum and Heritage Park, as it will allow our children the opportunity to learn the history of our community.

City plans Parks and Open Space Master Plan public meetings The City of League City has started the process of updating and combining the Parks and Open Space Master Plan and Trails Master Plan.

League City’s Current Parks and Open Space Master Plan was completed in 2005, and the Trails Master Plan in 2010. The plans will reflect the communities’ current needs, opinions and trends along with the standards for provisions of parks that continues to evolve as the City grows (i.e., League City’s population has grown by more than 37,500 since 2005).

Updating the current plans will position us to better apply and compete competitively for Texas Parks and Wildlife grants, as well as Texas Department of Transportation grants for trails related to transportation enhancements.

• First Public Meeting • Date: May 11, 2016 • Time: 6 p.m.

• Location: Creekside Intermediate School, 4320 W. Main St., League City, Texas 77573 **Meeting will take place in the Commons/Cafeteria area.

• Second Public Meeting • Date: May 18, 2016 • Time: 6 p.m.

• Location: Clear Creek Intermediate School, 2451 E. Main St., League City, Texas 77573 • **Meeting will take place in the Commons/Cafeteria area.

Contact Parks at parks@leaguecity.com for additional Public meetings will be held for citizens to provide input information. to the project as part of the planning process. The scheduled meetings are as follows: 10 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016

Muralist Jeff Szymanski completed the library’s newest mural

The mural depicts a complete snapshot of the essence of League City, Texas. Be sure to visit us and check it out! Jeff Szymanski’s work can be seen in a variety of places, particularly the Houston Museum of Fine Arts and the George R. Brown Convention Center, and he has painted commissions for former President George Bush, Sr. and former Texas Governor Rick Perry. He can be contacted at http://jeffsartstudio.com/

Summer Reading Clubs

Helen Hall Library is proud to announce information on its annual Summer Reading program. Children of all ages and adults are invited to exercise their mind and join this year’s program beginning June 6. Participants in the program must log in their reading list between June 6 and July 29.

Downloadable Magazines

Get a taste of the Summer Reading Program on Thursday, April 28, with Move It, by competing and playing games. Check the library website at www.leaguecitylibrary.org for details.

Children and teens, come join the summer fun at Helen Hall Library by participating in the Summer Reading Clubs and activities. Activities kick off with story times on June 6th and activities for all levels begin on June 13th.

Helen Hall Library now offers digital magazines that can be read on computers, phones and tablets.

Visit the “E-Library” tab at www.leaguecitylibrary. org to check out magazines today.

Mother Goose on the Loose

Mother Goose on the Loose featuring Lisa Jastram from Oasis from Children is open to children of all ages. Bring your child out to join in on this fun and entertaining story.

July 5 at 6:30 p.m.

On your mark, get set ... Read!

Teen Programming Join us for Teen Terrific Tuesdays! The activities are open to teens ages 11 to 18 every Tuesday beginning June 14 to July 26 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Each Tuesday will feature activities such as Library Olympics, Giant Games, Miniature Archery, Anime Afternoon, Sand Art, Life Sized Monopoly, and a Back to School Workshop.

The Library will also host Game On. Teens are invited to drop in and play video and board games every Friday from June 17 to July 29 between 3 and 5 p.m.

Build Family Memories at Helen Hall Library Families with children ages 4 to 11 are invited to come to Family Frolic in throughout the Summer to have fun and build memories together. Family Frolic is held on Thursdays beginning June 16 and kicks off with Reading is for Winners. Mick Corley will launch our children into Summer with his entertaining show that celebrates this year’s reading theme.

Free Comic Book Day takes place annually on the first Saturday in May. In anticipation of this day, why not stop by the Helen Hall Library for free Comic Book Crafts? Teens in grades 6 to 12 are invited to this event on Friday, May 6 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Use comic book graphics to make bubble magnets and bottle cap necklaces that you can take home, and take your pick from a selection of used comic book issues.

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Parks Recreation Department Special Events League City’s Parks Recreation ‘Beyond the Oaks’ Summer brochure has been released.

Residents are encouraged to browse through the brochure for information on how to register for this season’s programs and activities. The brochures also includes additional information on the upcoming Mother Son Dance, National Trails Day, Citizen Appreciation Day, Camp by the Creek and much more are also available in the Beyond the Oaks Summer Brochure.

Mother/Son Dance The Mother/Son Dance is set for May 6 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Hometown Heroes Park.

Cost for League City residents is $55 per couple; non-residents $82.50 per couple.

Registration deadline for League City residents is April 6; non-residents is April 20 (or until all slots are filled).

Contact Ryan Stevenson at (281) 554-1191 or ryan.stevenson@leaguecity.com.

National Trails Day It’s National Trails Day in League City!

Join us on June 4 as the Parks Recreation Department hosts its 3rd annual National Trails Day event at with a 1.5 mile trail walk at Rustic Oaks Park (5101 Orange Blossom). The event will start at 9 a.m.

Participants will receive a SWAG bag and a trail activity worksheet. All participants completing the trail walk will be eligible for door prizes at the conclusion of the 1.5 mile hike. The event is free and open to the entire community.

Family Fun Night at the Park Bring out the family to our family fun night swim, concert and movie series this summer at Hometown Heroes Park.

Activities include open gym, live music,

12 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016

swimming and a movie. Concessions available for purchase. The cost for the event is $8 per person.

Event dates: June 24, July 8, July 22 and Aug. 12

on Fridays) Resident passes are $25 (includes Walker Pool); non-residents are $45 (includes Walker Pool). Admission fees without a pass for residents are $5 for adults (Age 10 and up) and $3 for children (Age 9 and under); non-residents are $8 for adults (and $5 for children.

Summer Programs

Swimming Lessons

Camp by the Creek

Swimming lessons are available for all skill levels ages 3 to adult. Lessons are offered morning, afternoon and evening on:

Summer is a time to play in the sun, exercise, and swim! Where can your children do all of this? Camp by the Creek! Our energetic and talented camp staff will entertain campers with different programs: arts and craft, games, field trips, and outdoor activities. Camp is designed for children ages 6-12.

This year’s camp will be held June 6 to Aug. 19, 2016 at Hometown Heroes Park (2105 Dickinson Ave.). Camp is Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Extended care is available from 7 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. for an additional fee.

Contact Parks for session pricing or check www.leaguecity.com/parks for updates.

Parks is offering a $10 discount for an additional child and extended care for an additional $20 per session, per child.

Secure your child a place in this year’s Camp by the Creek with a non-refundable $50 deposit (per session).

Contact Katrina Beecher at (281) 5541180 or katrina.beecher@leaguecity.com for more information.

League City Swimming Pools The City pools will open on May 28 to May 30, 2016 for Memorial Day Weekend. Full schedule begins June 4, 2016.

Walker Pool open swim hours are: Tuesday to Sunday, 1 to 8 p.m. (Closed on Mondays.) Resident passes are $10; nonresidents are $25. Daily fees without a pass: $2 for adults (Age 10 and up) and $1.50 for children (Age 9 and under).

Hometown Heroes Park Pool open swim hours are: Monday to Thursday, 1 to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m. (Closed

Session A: Session B: Session C: Session D: Session E:

June 6 to 16 June 20 to 30 July 5 to 14 July 18 to 28 Aug. 1 to 11

Cost for residents is $50 per session; nonresidents are $75 per session. League City residents may register online at www. leaguecity.com or in person at the Parks Recreation office beginning May 4; nonresidents registration begins May 18.

Pool Rentals Hometown Heroes Park and Walker Pool are available for private rentals on the weekends throughout the summer.

Walker Pool is available on Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to noon. Fees: Resident $75; non-residents $150 (plus lifeguard fees). Hometown Heroes Park Pool is available on Saturdays and Sundays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fees: Resident $150, Nonresidents $225 (plus lifeguard fees) The Fast Track modular play structure is available for rent at Hometown Heroes Park (after hours only). Residential rental fee cost is $50; non-resident is $75 (plus one additional lifeguard).

Hometown Heroes Pool Pavilion is also available for rent during open swim hours.

(Fast Track not available) Rental fee for residents are $25 for two hours; nonresidents is $50 per two hours.

Contact Ashley Creller at ashley.creller@ leaguecity.com or (281) 554-1180 for more information.

Parks Recreation Department Flag Football

Senior Ceramic and Pottery Classes

This program teaches kids football fundamentals in a fun environment that emphasizes sportsmanship, self-esteem and healthy competition.

The Parks Recreation Department will continue to offer Ceramic and Pottery Art class for seniors ages 55 and older in 2016.

Classes are free of charge to residents and will take place at the Ceramic and Pottery Center, located at 900 Hwy 3 North in League City, with free transportation available from Hometown Heroes Park.

Participants will learn the basics of ceramic and pottery art, with hands-on instruction in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. At the conclusion of each session, participants will have completed a ceramic art-work to take with them. The class occurs on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month on: May 11 and 25 June 8 and 22 July 13 and 27 August 10 and 24 September 14 and 28 Cost for League city residents is free; nonresidents $35. Annual membership required.

Baseball

Dates: June 6 to Aug. 4, 2016 Games and Practices: Weeknights Location: Chester L. Davis Sportsplex (1251 Highway 96) Registration deadline: League City residents, April 6; non-residents, April 20

Summer Basketball

Dates: May 9 to Aug. 5, 2016 Games and Practices: Weeknights Location: Hometown Heroes Park (2105 Dickinson Ave.) Registration deadline: League City residents, March 16; non-residents: March 30

Contact Patrick Murphy at (281) 554-1180 or Patrick.murphy@leaguecity.com for more information.

T-Ball and Rookie Ball fees for League City residents is $60; non-residents is $90.

Coach Pitch fees for League City residents is $75; non-residents is $112.50.

Contact Katrina Beecher at (281) 5541180 or katrina.beecher@leaguecity.com T-BALL This program is designed for boys and girls ages 3 and 4. It offers children an opportunity to develop social skills and team play while having fun.

This recreational program helps children develop basic skills and fundamentals of basketball through recreational play.

Dates: May 16 to July 30, 2016 Games: Saturday mornings Location: Hometown Heroes Park (2105 Dickinson Avenue) Fees for League City residents is $65; nonresidents, $97.50. Registration deadline: League City residents, April 6; nonresidents, April 20

ROOKIE BALL This program is designed for boys and girls ages 5 and 6. This stage in recreational baseball helps boys and girls develop techniques in hitting, fielding, throwing and base running.

COACH PITCH BASEBALL Coach pitch baseball is open to boys and girls ages 7 to 9. This stage in recreational baseball will emphasize hitting and fielding in modified game play.

Cheerleading

This program teaches children basic fundamentals in a fun environment that emphasizes sportsmanship, self-esteem and teamwork.

Dates: May 16 to Aug. 5, 2016 Practices and Games: Weeknights Location: Hometown Heroes Park (2105 Dickinson Avenue) Fees for League City Residents are $50; non-residents $75. Registration deadline: League City residents, April 6; nonresidents: April 20.

Contact Michelle Monzon at (281) 5541180 or michelle.monzon@leaguecity.com

Summer Job Opportunities

Open to children ages 3 to 14. Cost for League City residents is $75; non-residents $112.50.

We are seeking enthusiastic and safety conscious individuals at least 16 years of age for positions within the City of League City Parks Recreation Department. Apply at www.leaguecity.com.

Contact Patrick Murphy at (281) 554-1180 or Patrick.murphy@leaguecity.com

Available positions: Lifeguards, Recreation Aides, and Summer Camp Counselors.

www.leaguecity.com 13

Volunteers provide vacation house checks The League City Police Department Volunteers In Policing (VIP) Program now offers free house checks as a service to residents headed out of town.

Checks by members of the VIP Program will supplement, not replace, normal residential patrols by League City police officers. The service is offered as a courtesy to residents away from their homes a minimum of three days, a maximum of fourteen days. Homeowners are asked to submit an online request to the Police Department at least one week prior to departure. Volunteers will utilize the information provided to visually inspect the home while on patrol. A patrol officer would be called to the residence for further investigation if any suspicious activity is observed.

“Our Vacation House Check service is just one more way we look out for members of our community,” said Officer Todd Young, VIP Coordinator. Visit www.leaguecity.com/ HouseCheck for more information or to submit a request.

City Hall in the Park dates set The City of League City will host City Hall in the Park on May 17 and June 21. The community outreach initiative provides residents with a forum to informally meet with council members, the City Manager and other key staff.

“City Hall in the Park gives us a chance to connect with residents outside the walls of City Hall,” said Mark Rohr, City Manager. “It’s important for us to engage with our community through these type of events so we can better serve our residents, build partnerships, address concerns, and gauge feedback of City services.”

League City residents are invited to attend the events and share their ideas and opinions on the community they call home. The informal gatherings occur throughout the year at various parks or other community facilities in League City.

Dates for the first two City Halls in the Park for 2016 are: MAY 17, 2016 City Hall in the Park Theme: Ice Cream and Root Beer Float Social Location: League Park 512 2nd St., League City, Texas Time: 6 to 8 p.m.

JUNE 21, 2016 City Hall in the Park Theme: Banana Splits Location: Hometown Heroes Park 2105 Dickinson Ave., League City, Texas Time: 6 to 8 p.m.

14 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016

Texas is home to some of the sport’s most competitive teams and is often a tournament destination for the quidditch community.

The league consists of teams from throughout the United States and Canada. One of 16 teams participating in MLQ is League City based team, the League City Legends, whose team manager is also one of the City’s newest councilmembers.

MLQ’s official announcement is available at http://mlquidditch. com/mlq-championship-location-2016/. Additional details will be released in the near future at www.leaguecity.com or http://mlquidditch.com.

Major League Quidditch announced March 31 that the City of League City will host the 2016 Major League Quidditch Championship Aug. 20 to 21 at Hometown Heroes Park.

The announcement comes after weeks of discussions with MLQ and city officials.

“Major League Quidditch is thrilled to be partnering with League City to host our marquee event,” said Ethan Sturm, MLQ Commission Co-Chair. “League City is everything we could have asked for in a host city, and we cannot wait to bring our staff, players and fans to Hometown Heroes Park in August to show them what the city has to offer.”

The City submitted a bid in January 2016 in an effort to promote tourism and bring sporting opportunities to the area. City officials were notified that League City was one of three finalists being considered as a host site for the MLQ Championship in February 2016. Other finalists included San Diego, California, and Toledo, Ohio.

Selecting League City as the host site for the championship event was an extensive bid evaluation process made easy by City Staff’s support and responsiveness, according to MLQ officials.

“On behalf of the entire City Council and staff, I want to thank MLQ for selecting us as host for its marquee event, Hotel Occupancy Tax Board, and the City staff who worked hard to submit and secure the bid,” said Rohr.

The championship event is expected to positively impact many nearby restaurants, hotels and retailers throughout the weekend.

League City Event Calendar Listing Event

Date

Italian Heritage Ghirardi Museum Dinner & Festival Surviving an Active Shooter Drug Take Back Event Mother / Son Dance Kids Night Out Hurricane Blow Out

April 29 & 30

City Hall in the Park National Trails Day Family Night at the Park Citizen Appreciation Day City Hall in the Park

May 17 June 4 June 24 July 4 June 21

April 30 April 30 May 6 May 13 May 14

Looking for more City happenings and event information? Full details on the events listed above and more are available at www.leaguecity.com. Community event information is also available at www.visitleaguecity.com.

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Citizen Appreciation Day The annual Fourth of July celebration will be held on July 4, beginning at 11 a.m., at League Park (512 2nd Street). City Council, the Parks Board, and Parks Recreation staff will serve refreshments in appreciation of the citizens of League City. The free event will feature live music, food and entertainment. Bring your patriotic spirit and celebrate this special day with us!

Auditions for individuals interested in sharing their voice for the national anthem in this year’s event will be held on June 11 from 10 a.m. to noon. Contact Katrina Beecher at katrina.beecher@leaguecity.com for more details.

16 CITY MATTERS APRIL 2016