Citymatters Fall 2015

City Matters Follow Us on T H E C I T Y O F L E AG U E C I T Y ’ S Q UA R T E R LY N E W S L E T T E R

3 4 5 THE ART HEWITT An inside look into League City’s FY2016 Budget. Entire budget and capital projects list at www.leaguecity.com

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A Special Election for the City of League City will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015

A w a r d s

he City of League City awarded Jack Compton the 2015 Arthur Hewitt Volunteer Spirit Award during August 25 City Council meeting.

Compton, President of the League City Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni Association was honored for his volunteer work with the police department. He has volunteered more than 1,000 hours per year in an effort to bridge the communication divide between the law enforcement community and League City residents. Compton has helped organize the City’s Salute to Military Heroes week, morale events for League City first responders, and is an active volunteer who also serves as a field trainer for the Volunteers in Policing program.

“I am honored to be recognized with this award. Art Hewitt was a warrior and a hero who spent the better part of his life working for a safer League City,” said Compton. “I am fortunate to be able to serve our community through the League City Police Department with Art’s goal in mind - a safer League City for

New businesses who were approved to open for business between July and September 2015

W i n n e r

all of us to call home.”

Cheryl Scott was also honored with the Above and Beyond Award for her volunteerism efforts with the League City Animal Shelter. Scott has devoted more than 454 hours in the past year to volunteering with the City’s Animal Shelter to promote the many animals in need of a home. She has spent hours showing off the adoptable animals at numerous community events, training volunteers and supporting the animal shelter in hopes of bettering the League City community.

Arthur Hewitt, who passed away in 2012, dedicated 61 years of his life to the League City community by serving as a League City volunteer firefighter and inspiring countless others to make a commitment to service in League City. The City of League City honors Hewitt’s memory and keeps his passion for volunteerism alive through the Arthur Hewitt Volunteer Spirit Award and by declaring Aug. 30 of every year as League City Volunteer Appreciation Day.

Jack Compton being awarded the 2015 Art Hewitt Spirit Award presented by Mayor Tim Paulissen

Cheryl Scott being awarded the 2015 Above and Beyond Award presented by Mayor Tim Paulissen

CITY COUNCIL Timothy Paulissen

Mayor’s Report enhancing the delivery of municipal services, economic development, and, most importantly, tax relief for our homeowners.

I

recently had an opportunity to participate in the League City Volunteer Fire Department’s annual 9/11 Stair Climb. It was definitely a privilege to make the climb up those stairs. And, as I watched our firefighters and great residents, make the climb I couldn’t help but reflect on what each of them do for our City each and every day.

Council members also approved to increase the homestead exemption from 14% to 20% to help lessen the tax burden on each you.

We’ve got a long road ahead of us to implement all the great ideas in our ‘Roadmap to the Future’ and I firmly believe, that together, we will achieve our goals of keeping the City of League City a great place to live, work and play.

Mayor (281) 554-1024 tim.paulissen@leaguecity.com

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

Tommy Cones Position 2 (281) 924-8686

tommy.cones@leaguecity.com

Heidi Hansing

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

Todd Kinsey

Position 4 (832) 273-9692 todd.kinsey@leaguecity.com

Geri Bentley

Our police officers, firefighters and first responders selflessly dedicate themselves to ensuring our safety. They fight fires, patrol our neighborhoods, capture burglars, keep our streets safe, respond to numerous medical emergencies and much more … and they do it because they care about our community.

Don’t forget … there’s a special election set for Nov. 3. On the ballot is the proposition to authorize the City to create a Municipal Development District and the proposition to approve a sales and use tax of one-fourth of one percent. Whether you are for or against, please exercise your constitutional right, and get out and vote.

Mayor Pro Tem / Position 5 (281) 610-7003 geri.bentley@leaguecity.com

So, join me in thanking them for everything they do. Next time you see a police officer, firefighter or first responder take a moment to stop and say ‘Thank you for keeping us safe!’

Finally, throughout the next few months, our staff has numerous events such as the Harvest Festival, the Fire Department’s Haunted House, the Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a Holiday Open House for each of you. I encourage each of you to come out and have some fun!

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

Most importantly, remember this is the time of year to reflect on the great things to come in both our personal lives and the City. On behalf of the entire City Council and staff, thank you for choosing League City as your home!

City Manager

Earlier this year, we provided each of you an opportunity to help us develop the City’s ‘Roadmap to the Future.’ The goals we set together have led us on a course to quickly becoming a city of approximately 98,000 with great growth and numerous economic development opportunities.

The roadmap also provided us with a sound guiding document to help develop the City’s FY16 operating budget of $109.2 million and a capital budget of $65.8 million. We focused on strategically investing in our water supply and storage, major road improvements, facility updates,

2 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015

Keith Gross

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

Nick Long

Mark Rohr

CITY MATTERS STAFF Communications Director Angel Lopez Designer Quan Robinson COMMENTS?

-Tim Paulissen, Mayor

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

FY2016 Budget

DID YOU KNOW? CIP Status Reports City Staff produces quarterly, monthly and annual Capital Improvement Project Status Reports. The reports are posted at www.leaguecity.com/CIPstatusreports.

City Manager’s Update Interested in learning more about League City? Each Friday the City Manager publishes a weekly update providing an overview on what’s happened throughout the past week and information on what residents should keep on their radar. The City Manager’s Update is posted every Friday morning at www.leaguecity.com/index.aspx?NID=1900.

Fuel Fee Adjustment for Garbage Residents began seeing a decrease of $0.64 in their garbage rate on Sept. 1, 2015. The decrease is a part of a quarterly review of the solid waste contract with Republic Services.

The previous rate was $14.36 and has been decreased to $13.72.

Permits issued by League City The City issued 550 permits between July and September 2015. This includes 240 new residential permits and 19 new commercial permits.

Save trees with Eco-Billing Go green! The City provides residents with an opportunity to receive their water billing statements electronically with Eco-Billing.

Water bill statements are delivered at least one day prior to your bill date, days faster than customers who have bills sent via the U.S. Postal Service. Avoid delays in receiving water bills and late fees by signing up for Eco-Billing at www.leaguecity.com/forms.aspx?fid=183 today!

Tree Planting The best time to plant trees in our area is between Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day.

www.leaguecity.com 3

Special Election for City of League City

A Special Election for the City of League City will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015, for the purpose of submitting to the registered voters of the City of League City a proposition authorizing the creation of the League City Municipal Development District and the imposition of a sales and use tax of one-fourth of one percent for the purpose of financing development projects beneficial to the district.

Information on how to vote by mail, early voting, Election Day voting for residents living in Galveston County, Harris County and any extraterritorial jurisdiction is as follows: Galveston County Voter Registration. The last day to register to vote in the Special Election was Oct. 5. Register to vote in Galveston County at www.co.galveston.tx.us/tax_offices/voter_registration.htm.

Ballots by Mail. Applications for ballots by mail for Galveston County residents may be sent to Dwight D. Sullivan, County Clerk, Galveston County Justice Center, P.O. Box 17253, Galveston, Texas, 77552-7253. Applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Oct. 23, 2015.

Early Voting. North Galveston County Building located at 174 Calder Rd. in League City. Hours of operation for early voting locations are: Oct. 19 to 23 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Oct. 26 to 30 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Weekend voting will not be available during the early voting period.

Election Day Voting Locations. Voting on Election Day will be held from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The County of Galveston has been approved to conduct Countywide Vote Center elections on Election Day. This allows voters to cast their votes at any location within the County. A complete list of voting locations is available at www.leaguecity.com/electioninformation or www.galvestonvotes.org.

League City Voting Locations are as follows: • • • • • • • • •

Bay Colony Elementary, 101 Bay Colony Elementary at Highway 646 Bauerschlag Elementary School (Library), 2051 W. League City Parkway CCISD Administration Building (Board Room), 2425 E. Main St. Creekside Intermediate School (Practice Gym), 4320 W. Main St. Harborview Care Center, 300 Enterprise Ave.

**NOTE: Use back entrance, walk through building to the lounge area.

Hometown Hero’s Park, 2105 Dickinson Ave. League City Civic Center, 400 W. Walker League City Intermediate (Cafeteria), 2588 Webster St. North Galveston County Building, 174 Calder Rd.

4 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015

Harris County Voter Registration. The last day to register to vote in the Special Election was Oct. 5. Register to vote in Harris County at www.hctax.net/voter/registration.

Ballots by Mail. Applications for ballots by mail for Harris County residents may be sent to Stan Stanart, Harris County Clerk, P.O. Box 1148, Houston, Texas, 77251-1148. Applications must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Oct. 23, 2015.

Early Voting. Early voting location shall be determined by Harris County. Hours of operation for early voting are: Oct. 19 to 23 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Oct. 24 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Oct. 25 from 1 to 6 p.m., and Oct. 26 to 30 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Election Day Voting Locations. Voting on Election Day will be held from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voting locations shall be determined by Harris County and will be posted at www.leaguecity.com/electioninformation or www.harrisvotes.com.

Extraterritorial Jurisdiction League City citizens residing in an extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) are reminded to look for the proposition on the ballot at your respective voting location. If the proposition being put forth is not on your ballot, notify the voting location immediately and prior to casting your ballot.

New Businesses

League City is growing! The City welcomes the following businesses who were approved to open for business between July and September 2015

• A Style Collective • AllState-Lou Craft Agent • Arts Roofing • B&C Beauty • Bahama Bucks • Ball Family Interest • Bay Area Dental Center • BIC • Bigbird Capital Corporation • Bubba’s Shrimp Palace • Bushi Ban International – LC • Chabad Bay Area • Coastal Performance Group • David’s Barber Shop • Elliott Electric • Eximo Crossfit • Ferguson Plumbing & WHSE • Five Star Floors of Texas • Greg Geisan OR Assigns • Happy Shoppers • Heaven’s Angels • Highpoint Storage #G • iCryo Wellness Center

• I.V. League Tutoring, LLC • Ivory Boutique • Jersey Mikes • John Lovoi Jr Dentist • Kiddie Academy ED Child Chare • Kroger • Lance Chiropractic Clinic • LN Game Room • Made New Again • Malay Malay Malaysion Restaurant • Marina Bay Holdings, LLC • Marina Bend Apartments • Mount Pleasant Avenue • Mr. Sombrero • Nehme Alkarra MD • New Teeth Dental Solutions • Nutrition by Max Muscle • Odyssey Academy • Oliver’s Pizza • PA PA Chen China Diner • PHO 20, LLC • Pollo Tropical • Power of Flowers • Raising Cane’s Chicken • Redhead Design Works • Resolute Oil, LLC

• Roberts Wealth Management • Rocket Tees & Promotionals • Royal Nails & Spa • Rusty Dusty Resale • Space Center Orthodontics • T&DGK • Taige Properties • Tax Compliance & Recovery • Texas Bay Credit Union • Texas Direct Auto • The Cleaning Authority • The Fit Factory • The Man Cave Cigar Lounge • The Moorings Apartments • The Pool Boys • Tots N’ Teens Pediatric Dental • Tuscan Lakes Family Dentistry • University Federal Credit Union • US Flooring • Wendy’s Restaurant • X-treme Air

Boards & Commissions?

The City of League City is currently seeking volunteers for several boards, commissions and committees.

Residents interested in volunteering to help create a better League City are encouraged to apply through the application form at www.leaguecity.com/forms.aspx?FID=102.

Upon submission, applications for the vacant positions are reviewed and filled by appointment of the mayor, with confirmation by City Council.

“Serving on a League City board, commission or committee is an excellent opportunity for citizens to get involved and make a difference in their communities and neighborhoods,” said City of League City Mayor Tim Paulissen. “I urge you to spread the word and encourage your friends, neighbors and colleagues to review the vacancies and fill out an application.”

The City is currently seeking volunteers for the Animal Shelter Advisory Committee, Ethics Review Board, Finance Committee, Historic Commission, Parks Board, Planning and Zoning Commission, the Zoning Board of Adjustments and several other committees, boards and commissions.

A complete list of openings, descriptions of the City’s boards and commissions, eligibility requirements, and an online application are available at www.leaguecity.com/boards. Applications are also available from the City Secretary’s Office at City Hall at 300 W. Walker. Applications must be submitted no later than Oct. 31.

Contact the City Secretary’s Office at (281) 554-1030 for more information.

www.leaguecity.com 5

FLOOD ZONES & INSURANCE RATE MAPS

By League City Neighborhood Services

R

ain comes, rain goes and sometimes it leads to floods throughout neighborhoods and City Streets.

to be educated about flood risks and have their properties insured so damages are not detrimental to their livelihood.”

Do you as property owner or renter know what flood zone you are in? If not, this is a critical piece of information for any resident to know. Flood zones tell you the probability of a flood happening and also helps residents determine if they are required to have flood insurance on the property.

Floodplains provide several different ecological services. Water quality is improved through the filtering of nutrients and impurities from runoff. Floodplains also slow down flood waters from inundating parts of the City during large storm events.

They provide open space and areas for active and recreational uses. One unique feature about the City of League City is its numerous live oak trees that were planted in the late 1870s. Besides creating a quaint atmosphere in the city, the live oak trees also reduce storm water runoff in urban areas by up to 17%. The canopy of a single large live oak can intercept up to 28% of a major rainfall, thereby reducing the effects

Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are used by insurance agents to rate structures for flood insurance. The flood maps are also FEMA’s way of depicting the floodplains to community officials so they can enact measures to protect their citizens. A floodplain is the normally dry area, usually low land adjacent to a watercourse that is inundated on a periodic basis with flood waters. Floodplains are natural features that serve to detain storm water from invading urbanized areas due to overwhelmed drainage systems. Additional information about floodplain development and insurance requirements, please visit the League City Floodplain website: www.leaguecity.com/index.aspx?NID=1691 “It’s important for League City residents to understand what flood zone they reside in and how it impacts their insurance rates,” said Kris Carpenter, League City Neighborhood Services Manager.

“Residents living within a floodplain do have an annual chance to flood, which is why it is important for citizens within a floodplain

6 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015

of flooding. For more information on how the trees benefit League City, please visit the League City Historical Society website: www.leaguecityhistory.org/liveoak.php.

Flood risks can be increased when debris builds up in culverts, streambeds, and the municipal sewer system. It is illegal in League City to dump any type of debris into a stream, drainage ditch, or sewer system.

Debris can impede drainage causing the flow of water to back up. Citizens should do their part to keep ditches free of debris, and not to allow grass clippings, oil, and other contaminants to get into storm sewer inlets.

Debris dumping should be reported to the League City Helpline by calling 3-1-1 or by filling out a report online via the Citizen Request Tracker.

Gated Residency Gaining access to gated residences

By League City Fire Marshal’s Office

turned to the normal It’s 3 a.m. and emergency personnel have been dispatched to your house.

Emergency personnel arrive on-scene and find they are blocked from getting to your house because they are unable to gain access to a locked drive-way gate at the street.

Time is ticking away – seconds turn to minutes that make a difference in an emergency situation.

The emergency personnel contact the Fire Department to forcefully open the gate.

Having a security gate at your drive-way or around your house could cause a delay in getting help to you that could result in the loss of life and/or property.

The League City Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the installation of a security key switch that is the same manufacture and type utilized by the city. This is a voluntary program for residences only and not a fire code requirement. The key switch operates by having the emergency personnel insert their key into the key switch and turning it to the emergency position, which causes the gate to open. Upon leaving the property, the key is again inserted and

returned to operating position and the gate will close; now the gate can be opened with either the homeowner’s code or key.

If your gate is not powered electrical and must be opened manually, there is a specific type of padlock that is to be used in this type of situation. If your gate is electrical powered and there is a loss of power can your gate be opened manually?

The key switch is purchased and installed near the keypad or the gate by the residence at their own expense. This key switch is used only by emergency personnel, no other individuals, companies, or the homeowner will have this key. The distribution of the keys to emergency personnel is monitored by the League City Fire Marshal’s Office for security.

If you would like additional information about seeing a key switch in operation and an order form contact the League City Fire Marshal’s Office at (281) 554-1290.

www.leaguecity.com 7

Catch the rain in a barrel

T

he City of League City is hosting a rain barrel sale in an effort to promote the City’s Rainwater Harvesting efforts and promote the conservation of water resources.

Through the Rain Barrel Program, residents of League City may purchase ‘Ivy’ rain barrels at a discounted price of $65 until Oct. 18 at www.leaguecity.com/ rainbarrels.

Rain barrels help conserve water resources by harvesting rainwater for use in gardens, lawns and washing cars. The use of barrels also helps protect the City’s water quality by capturing rainwater from household downspouts and preventing the water from carrying potential contaminants into the City’s storm drains.

“This program is an important step toward protecting clean water in our community because it offers an inexpensive and proven option to help people make a difference in their own backyards,” said Ruben Leos, Water Production Supervisor.

8 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015

“We are committed to helping residents conserve water and learn the benefits of rainwater harvesting. The use of rain barrels will provide residents the tools they need to conserve water, prevent water pollution, and reduce sedimentation in our lakes, rivers and streams.”

The 50-gallon rain barrels are available for purchase through the program’s website. The ordered rain barrels will be available for pick-up on Oct. 24, 2015 from 9 a.m. to noon at the League City Public Works building located at 1535 Dickinson Ave. A receipt for proof of purchase will be required.

Additionally, a limited number of rain barrels will be available for same-day pick-up on Oct. 24, 2015 on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The first 120 League City water customers who participate in the program are eligible for a $25 water utility credit for up to two rain barrel installations per year.

Applications must be submitted within 30

days of purchase, are only applicable to residential customers and are subject to the availability of funds.

Details about the program are available at www.leaguecity.com/rainbarrels.

New Water and Wastewater Rates

The City Council voted to approve an ordinance to increase water and wastewater rates for the first time since October 2008 after a second and final reading on Aug. 11, 2015.

The new rates are effective as of Nov. 1, 2015.

“One of the priorities identified in our ‘Roadmap to the Future’ was the need to diversify our water supply sources,” said City Manager Mark Rohr. “This rate increase will allow the City to strategically invest nearly $300 million in the water and sewer infrastructure throughout a ten-year planning cycle to include the replacement of the 42 inch waterline located along State Highway 3 that serves as the City’s primary water source from the City of Houston’s southeast water treatment plant.”

Upon adoption of the rate adjustment, the City will implement a conservation (inverted block) rate structure for residential water use in the form of a four-tier system accompanied by a two-tier system for wastewater usage.

The base charges for residents and commercial business under the ordinance stay the same at $7.13 for water and $13.88 for wastewater. Rates would then be based on the volume of water or wastewater service as follows:

RESIDENTS Consumption

Water

Wastewater

(price per 1,000 gallons)

(price per 1,000 gallons)

0 - 3,000

$1.50

$1.80

4,000 - 10,000

$5.50

11,000 - 25,000

$7.00

----

26,000 +

$8.50

----

$4.62

*Cap at 10,000 gallons

COMMERICAL and Multi-Family Consumption

Water

Wastewater

(price per 1,000 gallons)

(price per 1,000 gallons)

0 - 3,000

$3.00

$3.00

4,000 +

$5.90

$4.62

Additionally, irrigation only rates would have the same base charge of $7.13 and with volumetric a rate of $7 per every 1,000 gallons.

The bill, under the adopted rate adjustments, for an average residential customer using 7,000 gallons per month would go from $63.09 to $71.39 or a total of $8.30.

The new rate structure allows City officials to focus on maintaining the reliability of League City’s water and wastewater infrastructure while continuing to meet the community’s current and future growth demands.

“Our estimates indicate we surpassed the 98,000 population last month,” said Rohr. “We anticipate our population to continue to climb as we build upon the undeveloped land within the City. The utility rate changes put forth to the City Council establish a solid financial foundation that benefits our citizens as we progress down our ‘Roadmap to the Future.’”

Other water and sewer fees to be increased by this ordinance include: • Meter Tamper Fee - $75 • Service Charge (after two failed attempts) - $50 • Same Day Service Fee - $50 • Processing Fee for delinquent accounts - $40 • After Hours Service Fee - $50 • Fire Hydrant/Construction Meter Deposit - $1,500 • Meter Re-Read and Meter Field Testing - $65 The water and sewer rate study prepared by NewGen Strategies and Solutions, a national expert in water and sewer system financial planning, was presented to Council on Jan. 13, 2015. The study provided details on the City’s current and projected utility revenue and expenses under our current rates and recommendations to assist the City in maintaining financial stability of the utility fund. The study also highlighted the benefits of moving to the conservation rate strategy as it correlates to using our limited water resources efficiently while meeting the needs of our community.

www.leaguecity.com 9

Seeking Volunteers The Friends of Helen Hall Library is seeking volunteers for its brand new bookstore! Interested in helping out at the bookstore?

Contact City Librarian Jenny Brewer at jenny.brewer@leaguecity.com.

B

e sure to visit Helen Hall Library and take a look at our new lobby area! We have officially converted our entire collection of materials to be compatible with RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification) Technology. Additionally, we have completed phase II of our renovation. Phase II of the renovation included: construction on our new lobby area complete with a new circulation desk, a new RFID room and a new bookstore for our Friends of Helen Hall Library. Our new circulation desk has three brand new self-check machines that are exclusive to our new RFID system, and a fourth self-check machine in the Children’s Department that is compatible with RFID as well. Don’t forget to stop by and check us out!

Author Appearance at Helen Hall Library This year’s selection is The Promise by Ann Weisgarber. Helen Hall Library is very excited to host author Ann Weisgarber on Oct. 10 at 2 p.m.

Antiques Round Table Retired British engineer, Artist and Architectural Illustrator Keith Hick will speak on how the Art Deco movement of the 1920’s and 30’s helped shape the 20th century. Dec. 7, at 1 p.m.

Save Your Family History Caris Brown, archivist and local history librarian will provide instructions for preserving your families’ photographs, newspapers, videotapes, etc. Bring your items for show and tell on Nov. 7 at 2 p.m.

Book Club Field Trip Join us at our next Autumn meetings on Oct. 19 (under discussion: The Sister, by Poppy Adams) and Nov. 16 (under discussion: The Boys in the Boat, by Daniel James Brown.)

Another museum tour is also in the works!

10 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015

What’s Happening in Children’s @ Helen Hall Library?

The Children’s section of Helen Hall Library will be hosting some special events this fall, along with regularly scheduled story times and activities.

Celebrate Star War Reads IV...............................Oct. 10 Carranza Puppets ...............................Oct. 13, 6:30 p.m.

Pumpkin Patch Parade........................Oct. 28, 10:15 a.m.

Trick-or-Treat in the library on Halloween...........Oct. 31, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (while supplies last) Parenting Magic....................................Oct 19 at 11 a.m.

Oct. 22, 7 p.m.

Pocket Puppetee...................................Nov.10, 6:30 p.m.

Hogwarts School .................................Nov. 19, 4:30 p.m.

Jingle’s Magic Workshop ....................Dec. 2, 10:15 a.m.

Holiday Open House with Santa.....Dec. 3, 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Tree Lighting Ceremony.........................Dec. 3, 6:30 p.m.

Come enjoy these free events in the Susan Mathews Memorial Theater at Helen Hall Library. Free tickets will be passed out 15 minutes before each activity or program.

The League City Police Department will host ‘Chat with the Chief’ on Oct. 20, 2015 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the League City Public Safety Building in the Community Room.

‘Chat with the Chief’ is designed to provide League City residents with an opportunity to ask questions and discuss public safety concerns directly with the League City Police Chief Michael Kramm. Potential discussion topics include creating programs to engage community youth, neighborhood concerns, and open carry laws.

“Accessibility is important to me,” said Kramm. “Chat with the Chief is just one of the ways our Department participates in vital dialogue with our citizens to resolve public safety concerns in League City.”

Residents interested in joining the conversation and learning more about ways to engage in the public safety process are encouraged to attend.

n o i t a t S e r i F e s u o H d e t n Hau Ages 12 and up t’s discretion n e r a p t a r e d ·12 & Un · Fire Station 4 eens) d. (next to Walgr 175 Bay Area Blv

Oct 30 6 pm – 10 pm Oct 31 6 pm – 10 pm

You can bring canned food for your local food pantry if you would like. Not required to get in

www.leaguecity.com 11

Let the Fall fun begin!

By City of League City Communications Department

Fall kicks off in style with registration for the League City recreational activities.

League City’s Parks Recreation ‘Beyond the Oaks’ fall 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. Information on the upcoming Harvest Festival, Health Fair, Pickleball Clinic, NFL Punt Pass and Kick, and much more are also available in the Beyond the Oaks Fall Brochure.

Details on these programs and much more follow and can also be found in the Fall Brochure at: http://issuu.com/leaguecity/docs/fall_brochure/1.

LC Stars Cheerleaders

Children learn the fundamentals of cheerleading, team bonding, leadership responsibilities and perform during the City’s recreational basketball games.

Cheer practice shirts and pom-poms are included in the registration fee; uniforms are an additional fee. Registration for the upcoming season for girls’ ages 3 to 14 years old runs from Oct. 1 to 29 for League City residents and Oct. 15 to 29 for non-residents. Cost is $50 for residents; $75 for non-residents.

Contact Michelle Monzon at (281) 554-1180 or michelle.monzon@leaguecity.com for more information.

Sand Volleyball

Kick-off your shoes and dig those toes in the sand. Come join and have some fun in the sun and sand with this recreational activity! Registration runs from Sept. 9 to Oct. 2 for League City residents and Sept.

23 to Oct. 2 for non-residents. Costs are $50 for residents; $75 for non-residents.

Contact Lydia Rodriguez at (281) 554-1180 or lydia. rodriguez@leaguecity.com for more information.

Basketball

Registration for the upcoming youth basketball season runs from Oct. 1 to 29 for League City residents and Oct. 15 to 29 for non-residents. The season is open to children ages 3 to 14 years old and helps children develop basic skills and fundamentals of basketball through recreation play.

The adult basketball season begins on Oct. 8 for individuals 18 years old and above. Registration fee is $280 per team.

Games will be held on Thursday evening through Dec. 3.

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

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

Tennis

The Bay Area Racquet Club at League City will host tennis sessions Monday through Thursday at Rustic Oaks Tennis Courts located at 5101 Orange Blossum. Session dates are Oct. 26 to Nov. 16 and Nov. 23 to Dec. 14. Other tennis classes hosted by the club include: - Tennis classes for children ages 5 to 10 years old on Monday’s from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Each session is $79 with a 10% discount for siblings and a $10 discount when registering for four or more sessions.

- An introduction to ZAT tennis for adolescents’ ages 11 to 14 years old to receive lessons on proper stroke mechanics on Monday’s from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Each session is $129 with a 10% discount for siblings and a $10 discount when registering for four or more sessions.

Contact Ryan Stevenson at (281) 554-1191, ryan. stevenson@leaguecity.com or the Bay Area Racquet Club at (281) 488-7026 or bayarearacquetclub@ yahoo.com for more information.

Teen Advisory Board Youth Floorball (Indoor Hockey)

League City Floorball Fall League gives youth an opportunity to learn the basic skills of Floorball in an indoor setting with volunteer coaches. Children ages 7 to 15 years old will learn stick handling, passing, shooting, teamwork and the basic rules of Floorball. Practices will be held during the week in the evenings with games held Saturday mornings. Registration costs are $65 for residents; $97.50 for nonresidents and includes a team jersey and an end of season trophy. Equipment will be provided.

Karate

The year-round karate program teaches

12 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015

self-defense and self-confidence techniques of karate. Cost is $50 for a 10-week session and $30 for the uniform.

Register in-person at Hometown Heroes Park or online at www.leaguecity.com.

Is your teen interested in making a difference? League City is looking for teens to join the new ‘Teen Advisory Board’ for qualified students who want to make a difference! This is a great opportunity to gain leadership experience, receive volunteer hours and serve as a critical link between teens and the community.

Contact Katrina Beecher at (281) 554-1180 or katrina.beecher@leaguecity.com for more information.

Flag Football The flag football season will begin on Oct. 7 and is open to individuals 18 years old and above. Registration cost is $280 per team. Games will be held on Wednesday evenings through Dec. 2.

BLUE SANTA

Blue Santa donations help provide in need children and families the magic and joy of the Christmas season.

Donations received through this program help fund the annual ‘Shop with a Cop / Firefighter’ event where children pair up with League City Police Officers and Firefighters to pick out toys and clothing of their choice.

Donations of Target gift cards, cash, or checks are currently being accepted. Monetary donations should be marked payable to ‘LCPD Blue Santa’ and mailed to ‘ATTN: Blue Santa, 555 West Walker Street, League City, TX 77573.’ Individuals may also mail or drop-off the donation at the police department.

of funding received determines the number of children sponsored.

Help the League City Police Officers and the League City Volunteer Fire Department and other city departments, area businesses, civic groups, and community members make a difference and directly impact the children within our community!

Contact Officer Todd Young at (281) 554-1848 or todd.young@lcpd.com; or Officer Christy Galyean at (281) 3388201 or christy.galyean@lcpd. com for more information.

Toys, clothing, and stuffed animal donations are not accepted.

This program is run solely on monetary donations and the amount

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League City Volunteer Fire Deparment Annual Awards Banquet The League City Volunteer Fire Department hosted its annual awards banquet on Sept. 29 at Fire Station No. 2.

“The recognition of our fellow fighters is very important to us as leaders,” said District Chief Daniel Gibbs. “We want to recognize the firefighters who go above and beyond and continuously demonstrate excellence throughout the year.”

Awards presented include: • Recognition awards to League City’s Street Department and Information Technology Department for their support and responsiveness in addressing the needs of the Volunteer Fire Department.

• Most Trainings Award: Daniel Parada • Most Runs/Calls Award: Kevin Karban • Rookie of the Year - East Side: Tyler Champagne • Rookie of the Year - West Side: Colton Goudie • Volunteer Firefighter President’s Award: Ryan Brady • Chief’s Award: Ray Bigonesse • Fire Officer of the Year: Kyle Bartosh • Firefighter of the Year: Brock Howe

Bartosh was selected as the Fire Officer of the Year for his dedication to the department throughout the last 12 years. He has served as Captain of his fire station for the past four years and helped turn an underperforming and disenfranchised station into a station that is respected and hardworking.

Howe was selected as the Firefighter of the Year for his dedication to the department and Fire Station No. 3. As a veteran firefighter, he has mentored numerous firefighters by teaching, coaching and taking any scenario and turning it into a learning experience for those around him.

Length of service pins were also presented to Nathan Bates, Bruce Curatola, Derek Purser, and Chris Sabin for five-years of service; Justin Harker for 10 years of service; and Deborah Bly, Tim Daley, and Andre Hoarau for 20 years of service.

Recipients were selected by a committee of representatives from each fire station.

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: Gary Adams..............................Utility Maintenance Worker – Line Repair Joel Alvarado.........Utility Maintenance Technician Trainee - Water Production Nerys Garcia Amaya.................Utility Maintenance Worker - Line Repair Jason Bartlet..............................Utility Maintenance Worker – Line Repair Ramone Bautista......................Utility Operator Trainee - Water Production Isaac Benavides.....................................Emergency Medical Technician Richard Beverlin...............................Director of Economic Development Addina Bodia......................................Library Page - Helen Hall Library Monike Collins...........................................Utility Billing Representative Kayla Davis........................Planning Assistant - Planning and Development David Deschler...........................................Parks Maintenance Worker Sarunsiri Duffield....................................................Recreation Aide Kelly Eccles...........................................Human Resources Coordinator Kenneth Fibich...........................................................Police Officer Alisha Gardener........................................................Police Officer Terry George.......................................Equipment Coordinator - Streets Gary Gordon..............................................Code Compliance Officer Colton Goudie................................Emergency Medical Technician Basic Michael Guzman.......................................................Police Officer Donald Johnson............................................................Paramedic Taylor Johnston....................................Library Page - Helen Hall Library Edward Karnes................................Heavy Equipment Operator - Streets Cody Kiser.......................................Helen Hall Library Circulation Clerk

14 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015

Jacob Lambuth......................................Emergency Medical Technician Angel Lopez.............................................Director of Communications Tracie Lopez...........................Emergency Medical Technician Intermediate Angela McAllister..........................Detention Officer - Police Department Alison Peek............................................Emergency Medical Technician Kevin Pell...................................................................Police Officer Irena Ramirez.................................Emergency Medical Technician Basic Princeton Rideaux.........................................Sign Technician - Streets Anthony Ritter....................Senior Utility Maintenance Worker – Line Repair Casey Rohrich................................Planner - Planning and Development Kevin Ross...............................................Equipment Operator - Streets Ivan Salinas................................Utility Maintenance Worker - Line Repair Brandon Scott...............................Telecommunicator - Police Department Darrian Slater..........................Utility Operator Trainee - Water Production John Stubbs...............................................................Police Officer Kayla Syzdek...............................Telecommunicator - Police Department Oscar Trevino.........................................Maintenance Worker - Streets Shawna Tubbs...................................................Purchasing Manager Michelle Villarreal.............................................Deputy City Attorney Gary Warren.................................................................Fire Chief Ann Williams.....................Engineering Department Administrative Assistant Victor Willis....................................Utility Operator Trainee - Wastewater

Construction Updates The City of League City is working hard to grow and develop the city. The map below shows all pending, ongoing and completed construction projects. Pending projects are indicated by a pink circle. Ongoing projects are indicated by a green circle and completed projects are indicated by a black circle. With all the new and improved infrastructure, there should be a increase in jobs as well as community growth.

The City will host the next League City Citizens University in January 2016.

The mission of the League City Citizens University is to familiarize the residents and business owners of League City with the purpose, process and structure of the League City government and equip citizens to become active participants leading League City into the future.

League City launched its first ever League City Citizens University in 2015 with great success. Additional information at leaguecity.com WHAT IT INVOLVES The League City Citizens University class sessions are held for 10 weeks, starting January 7. Classes are held on Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. Each session includes a presentation from one or more League City staff members. The course may also include

tours of City facilities. This year we are implementing a capstone project to be selected and completed by the class. The project may require some additional work outside of the course.

Participants are expected to attend all classes and are allowed one miss. If extreme circumstances exist, classes can be made up with an individual project assigned by the University Leader.

The class is limited to a maximum of 20 participants on a first come first serve basis. A background check will be required for admission (required for the tour of the League City Public Safety Building which is a part of the program).

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE? The classes are open to residents of League City, City employees and League City business owners who are: • Not currently holding a position as an elected official or running for office during class session • 18 years of age or older • Able to pass a background check

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City of League City 300 West Walker League City, TX 77573

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID LEAGUE CITY, TX 77573 PERMIT NO. 7

Holiday Happenings HARVEST FESTIVAL The League City Parks Recreation Department would like to invite you to the annual Harvest Festival.

The festival is at League Park (512 2nd Street) on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional activities include a hay maze, hay ride and Trunk-or-treat. The fee for a 10’ by 10’ booth space is $50. More info at www.leaguecity.com

Tree Lighting Ceremony The annual tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 3 at 6:30 p.m. in front of Helen Hall Library. The event will immediately follow the Holiday Open House at the Library. More info at www.leaguecity.com

Holiday in the Park League City’s annual Holiday in the Park is set for Dec. 6. This years theme is “Christmas 1945”. Visit www.leaguecity.com or www.holidayinthepark.org for more information.

Thursday, December 3 5 - 6:30 p.m.

Santa arrives at 5 p.m.

The Teen Advisory Board will provide crafts for children as they wait to see Santa

Following Open House at 6:30 p.m. is the TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY, co-sponsored by the Knights of Columbus #9310 and the League City Parks Recreation Department.

Come join us for caroling at the Tree in front of Helen Hall Library with our special guest, Santa!

For more information call: (281) 554-1111 or (281) 554-1180.

16 CITY MATTERS FALL 2015