MESSENGER Quarterly Newsletter

Fall 2021 Memorial Illumination The City of Deer Park is participating in the Texas General Information...... 2 Memorial Illumination at San Jacinto. This special LEPC...... 4 event is scheduled for November 13, 2021 and is Police Department...... 5-7 sponsored by the San Jacinto Museum of History. Public Works...... 8-9 The Texas Memorial Illumination visually com- Employee Awards...... 9 memorates the Texans who gave their lives in armed conflict, from the to Afghanistan. Public Library...... 10-11 Similar events to this include the Antietam National Construction Projects...... 12-16 Battlefield Memorial Illumination in Maryland and Council Actions...... 17-18 the Battle of Franklin Illumination in Tennessee. Theater...... 19 Volunteers are needed to be a part Economic Development...... 19 of this amazing memorial, never Animal Control...... 20 before done in Texas. As fami- lies drive through the San Jacinto Parks & Recreation...... 20 Battleground State Historic Site, they Maxwell Center...... 20 will see over 21,500 candles displayed across the battlefield, representing Continued on page 11 No Trash Collection City offices will be closed on: Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Budget Monday, September 6 - On July 27, the City Manager presented to the Mayor and City Council a proposed budget for the fiscal year that begins on October 1, 2021 (FY 2021-2022). The City Manager’s proposed operating budget totals $81,359,569. The proposed operating budget expenditures for the major Thursday & Friday, City funds are as follows: November 25 & 26 - Thanksgiving General Fund $44,253,770 Water & Sewer Fund 12,650,395 Curbside collection of rubbish will not be available on these Debt Service Fund 8,048,151 days. Service will resume on Special Revenue Fund 3,986,054 your next regular collection day following the holiday. Garbage Storm Water Utility Fund 500,194 should not be placed out for Golf Course Lease Fund 871,239 pick up earlier than 6 p.m. on Capital Improvements Fund 9,580,610 the evening before the sched- uled collection day. All rubbish Capital Equip. Replacement Fund 1,367,156 must be in a bag and put out Chapter 380 Reimbursement Fund 102,000 at curbside by 8 a.m. on your Total $81,359,569 scheduled pickup day. Garbage Continued on page 3 should be placed between the curb and the sidewalk. City of Deer Park 710 E. San Augustine www.facebook.com/deerparktx Please note that the Transfer Deer Park, TX 77536 @deerparktxgov (281) 479-2394 Station will be closed on deerparktxgov Saturday, November 27. www.deerparktx.gov General Information The Mission of the City of Deer Park is to deliver exemplary municipal services that provide the community a high quality of life consistent with our history, culture, and unique character. Elected Officials Jerry Mouton, Jr...... Mayor City Hall Sherry Garrison...... Council Member - Position 1 Open Monday through Friday TJ Haight...... Council Member - Position 2 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tommy Ginn...... Council Member - Position 3 Bill Patterson...... Council Member - Position 4 Notify Me Ron Martin...... Council Member - Position 5 Subscribe to receive city news Rae A. Sinor...... Council Member - Position 6 and the Messenger newsletter by e-mail at www.deerparktx.gov. Contact Mayor and City Council Members by e-mail at [email protected]. Department Directors September James J. Stokes...... City Manager 4 Siren Test - Noon Gary M. Jackson...... Assistant City Manager 6 City Services Closed - Holiday Shannon Bennett...... City Secretary 7 City Council Meeting Donna Todd...... Director, Finance 11 Siren Test - Noon Bill Philibert...... Director, Human Resources 13 Planning & Zoning Meeting Bill Pedersen...... Director, Public Works 18 Siren Test - Noon Charlie Sandberg...... Director, Parks and Recreation 21 City Council Meeting Rebecca Pool...... Director, Library 25 Siren Test - Noon Buddy Rice...... Interim Director, Emergency Services 28 LEPC Meeting Greg Grigg...... Chief of Police James Lewis...... Director, Information Technology October Other Appointed Officials 2 Siren Test - Noon Jim Fox...... City Attorney 4 Planning & Zoning Meeting 5 City Council Meeting City Facilities 9 Siren Test - Noon Animal Shelter...... 281-478-7274...... 4221 Luella 16 Siren Test - Noon Art Park Players/Theater...... 281-478-7288...... 1302 Center th 19 City Council Meeting Avon Recreation Center...... 281-478-7216...... 601 W. 8 Street 23 Siren Test - Noon Battleground Golf Course...... 281-478-2080...... 1600 Georgia 26 LEPC Meeting City Hall...... 281-479-2394...... 710 E. San Augustine 30 Siren Test - Noon Claude Burgess Recreation Center ....281-478-2060...... 4200 Kalwick Community Center...... 281-478-2050...... 610 E. San Augustine Earl Dunn Gym...... 281-478-2056...... 610 E. San Augustine November Fire Station #1...... 281-478-2043...... 1302 Center Fire Station #2...... 281-478-7269...... 711 E. Pasadena Blvd. 1 Planning & Zoning Meeting Fire Station #3...... 281-478-7281...... 2211 East X 2 City Council Meeting Jimmy Burke Activity Center...... 281-478-2049...... 500 W. 13th Street 6 Siren Test - Noon Kingsdale Center...... 281-478-7215...... 2218 Kingsdale 13 Siren Test - Noon Maxwell Adult Center...... 281-478-7276...... 1201 Center 16 City Council Meeting Municipal Court...... 281-478-7238...... 1302 Center 20 Siren Test - Noon Police Station...... 281-479-1511...... 2911 Center 25 City Services Closed - Holiday Public Library...... 281-478-7208...... 3009 Center 26 City Services Closed - Holiday Swimming Pool...... 281-478-2055...... 610 E. San Augustine 27 Siren Test - Noon Transfer Station...... 281-478-7213...... 610 Underwood 30 LEPC Meeting Visitors Center...... 832-780-0973...... 203 Ivy Ave., Suite 606 *Meeting dates are subject to change. 2 Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Budget of approximately $21.7 mil- lion to fund Phase I of the new As submitted, the operating budget anticipates a proposed tax rate of Community/Recreation Center $0.720000/$100 of valuation, which is the same tax rate as was levied in and replacement of the Pool House FY 2020-2021. As in the past, all residential property owners will continue and general obligation bonds of to receive a 20% value reduction on their homestead property for the pur- approximately $21 million to fund pose of computing the property tax. By way of example, the owner of a projects associated with drainage home valued at $150,000 will pay property taxes on $120,000 of that value. and street improvements, as well as Additionally, senior citizens, age 65 and older, will continue receiving an Fire Department facilities. additional exemption of $50,000 on the value of their homestead. Utilizing the same example of a residence valued at $150,000, a senior citizen will pay Special Revenue Funds have been property tax on $70,000 of the value of the residence. As a further benefit established to record the revenue for senior citizens, age 65 and older, the amount of property taxes paid to and expenditures related to Hotel the City is capped as of the year in which they turn 65. Unless a senior citi- Occupancy Tax, Municipal Court zen makes improvements to their home, such as adding a room or putting fees, Police Forfeiture funds, and in a swimming pool, they will never pay more in property taxes to the City Grant funds. For FY 2021-2022, than the amount they paid in the year they turn 65 years of age, even if their the proposed Hotel Occupancy existing residence increases in value. For more information on these exemp- Tax expenditures total $608,430. tions and the tax cap for senior citizens, contact the City’s Tax Department Several City events and projects are at (281) 478-7222. funded through Hotel Occupancy Tax proceeds, including the The City uses a variety of funds to pay for its operations. The General Fund annual Reindeer Park, partial co- includes monies for the general operation of the City, including services sponsorship of the San Jacinto Day such as Police, Fire/EMS, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, Library, and Festival and Battle Reenactment, Administration. The proposed FY 2021-2022 General Fund budget calls and various activities of the Art Park for the same tax rate as levied in FY 2020-2021, and no new full-time staff Players. Municipal Court fees will positions but does include one new part-time employee. The proposed bud- fund related court expenditures of get includes a 2.1% cost of labor adjustment for full-time City employees, $261,412 in FY 2021-2022, and merit-based increases for eligible full-time employees in accordance with the Police Forfeiture funds will cover City’s approved salary scale, optional sick leave buyback of 5%, and longev- $16,212 of Police Dept. expendi- ity pay of $4 per month of service with a cap of 300 months. tures. The $3.1 million of expendi- tures in the Grant Fund primarily The City now has funded 10 years of a decade long capital improvements include storm drainage projects program to address water and sewer infrastructure needs. These have not completed in the current fis- included major improvements at our wastewater treatment plant, surface cal year but also include initial water treatment plant, and the rehabilitation of water and sewer lines expenditures using funds from the throughout Deer Park. Debt costs associated with these improvements come Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery from the City’s Water & Sewer Fund. This fund operates as an enterprise Fund (CLFRF) established by the fund, which means it derives revenue from water and sewer rates, not prop- American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. erty taxes. Water and sewer rates are projected to increase 5% percent to support the FY 2021-2022 costs of operations and debt service. This neces- The Capital Improvements Fund is sary increase follows an extensive analysis conducted last year by the City’s for the purpose of funding capital water and sewer rate consultant, and is driven primarily by the need to ser- improvements on a cash or pay- vice debt issued to rehabilitate old infrastructure. No new full-time positions as-you-go basis, which reduces the are included in the proposed FY 2021-2022 Water & Sewer Fund budget. use of long-term debt financing. Projects totaling $9,580,610 in Funds in the Debt Service Fund are used to pay the annual interest and the FY 2021-2022 budget include principal payments on the City’s outstanding bonds, including for FY $7.8 million for drainage improve- 2021-2022, a portion of the annual debt obligations for the water and ments, $300,000 for new sidewalks, sewer system, as well as the related paying agent fees and any financing costs $372,000 for Fire Department on new debt issued. The total amount estimated for all debt related pay- facilities, and $260,000 related to ments is $8,048,151. While no new debt is planned for FY 2021-2022, traffic signalization projects. There late in the current fiscal year, the City will issue certificates of obligation is also a $250,000 contingency for 3 and lighting at the Girls Softball Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Budget Complex, Soccer Complex, and unforeseen capital needs. Spencerview Athletic Complex.

New this year, the City is creating a Capital Equipment Replacement Fund. For more information about the This fund will be used to set aside monies for the repair and replacement proposed budget, please con- cost of existing rolling stock (vehicles and equipment). Funding for these tact the City Manager’s Office at expenditures will be provided through a transfer from the General Fund, (281) 478-7245. You may also similar to the funding for the Capital Improvements Fund. An initial review the proposed budget at transfer of $1.5 million will be made in FY 2020-2021 to institute a fund www.deerparktx.gov, or visit the balance. The FY 2021-2022 budget includes expenditures of almost $1.4 City Secretary’s Office or the Deer million for the needed replacement of vehicles and equipment in several Park Public Library. departments.

The Storm Water Utility Fund allows the City to cover expenses associ- ated with the unfunded federal mandate known as the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). The NPDES mandate requires cities to implement programs and practices to control polluted storm water run-off through a permitting program. These expenses in FY 2021- The Deer Park Local Emergency 2022 total $500,194, inclusive of the purchase of a robot camera system Planning to inspect pipes in the storm drainage and sanitary sewer systems and the Committee replacement of a jet truck, which is used to unclog storm sewer and sanitary (LEPC) is a non- sewer lines. Revenues to support this fund are derived from a fee of $1.60 profit, cooperative per month per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU), the same rate charged in partnership of the current fiscal year. community resi- dents, emergency The Golf Course Lease Fund is used to record the expenditures associ- responders, and ated with operating and maintaining The Battleground Golf Course and chemical industry leaders. The Republic Grill through a lease agreement with Touchstone Golf. For FY committee works together to 2021-2022, the Golf Course Lease Fund expenditures are budgeted at protect the health and safety $871,239. This includes roof replacement at The Battleground Golf Course of plant workers, community Clubhouse. residents, and our environment. For more information, go to In May 2016, Deer Park voters re-authorized a dedicated ¼ cent sales tax www.deerparklepc.org. for continuation of the Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) and a dedicated ¼ cent sales tax for continuation of the Fire Control, For the latest updates Prevention, and Emergency Medical Services District (FCPEMSD). These go to CAER Online districts are component units of the City, led by their respective Board of (www.ehcma.org/caeronline), Directors. The FY 2021-2022 budgets of both districts provide resources Facebook (deerparktx.oem), beyond the City’s General Fund, which allow for the purchase of many Twitter (@deerparkoem), Deer other items to be utilized by the Deer Park Police Dept. and the Deer Park Park's Government Access Volunteer Fire Dept. FY 2021-2022 budgeted expenditures for the CCPD Channel (DPTV) on Comcast are $6,495,697, inclusive of the costs associated with construction of a new Cable Channel 16 or AT&T Emergency Operations Center at the Police Station. The FCPEMSD’s FY U-Verse Channel 99, or local 2021-2022 budgeted expenditures total $1,817,615. news stations.

In May 2021, Deer Park voters approved continuation of the Deer Park To register for the city's emer- Community Development Corporation (DPCDC), a Type B sales tax cor- gency notification service, go to poration supported by a dedicated ½ cent sales tax. The DPCDC operates www.deerparktx.gov/oem, click under the direction of its own Board of Directors and exists to support pub- on the Emergency Notifications lic parks improvement initiatives. For FY 2021-2022, DPCDC expenditures icon, and then click on the total $11,456,586. The bulk of these expenditures will be used to fund a CodeRED logo to sign up! new Community Center and Recreation Center, and complete new parking 4 Deer Park Police Department • Park legally and do not block roadways or driveways. Statistics • Lanes of traffic must remain According to Statista.com, approximately 58% of Americans - adults and clear and easily traveled by children - celebrate Halloween. Typically, pedestrian and vehicle traffic emergency vehicles. significantly increases in neighborhoods during peak trick-or-treat hours. Halloween is one of the most dangerous holidays of the year for auto pedes- National Night Out trian accidents according to AutoInsurance.org. Statistics from the National On Oct. 5, neigh- Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for 2004 through 2016 borhoods through- showed an increased percentage of fatal crashes involving children on out Deer Park are Halloween evening, compared to an average day. The highest percentage invited to join increase was 188% in 2014. An increase in the number of trick-or-treaters is thousands of com- anticipated this year due to the reduced COVID-19 restrictions. Let's keep munities nationwide our children safe by driving with the vehicle headlamps on even if it’s not for the 38th Annual National Night completely dark yet so that your vehicle is more visible to children on the Out crime and drug prevention road. For more information, contact Crime Prevention Officer K.L. Zheng event. National Night Out is spon- at [email protected]. sored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored Trick-or-Treat Tips locally by the Deer Park Police While there is no set time for trick- Dept. Over 16,000 communities or-treating, the best time to start is from all 50 states, U.S. territories, around 6 or 6:30 p.m. when the sun Canadian cities, and military bases is still out and plan to stop by 8:30 around the world will participate. or 9 p.m. The following tips will also help you and your family stay safe this National Night Out, a year-long Halloween. community building campaign, is designed to: (1) heighten crime • Encourage good manners for participants of all ages. prevention awareness, (2) generate • Visit only familiar neighborhoods and houses. support and participation in local • Practice routes and proper greetings with children. anti-crime programs, (3) strengthen • Confirm that children know what to do if they become separated. neighborhood spirit and police- • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. community partnerships, and (4) • Carry a flashlight with you. send a message to criminals that • Avoid dimly lit areas. neighborhoods are organized and • Do not approach homes with the porch lights turned off. plan to fight back. On Oct. 5, resi- • Wear high visibility clothing, reflective tape, or devices that light up. dents in neighborhoods throughout • Costumes should not reduce the ability to see, cause overheating, or be a Deer Park and across the nation are trip hazard. asked to lock their doors, turn on • All young children should be accompanied by an adult. Do not enter the outside lights, and spend the homes, vehicles, or unsafe areas. evening visiting with neighbors and • Older children should stay in groups and stick to a preplanned route. police. • Wait until you get home to eat any candy. Check candy for allergens. • Throw away candy that is unwrapped, opened, not in the original wrap- National Night Out empha- per, or appears to be homemade. sizes the importance of partner- • Reinforce road safety practices, such as look both ways before crossing ships between police and the the street and only cross in the appropriate locations, never bolt into the community, as well as citizen street, etc. involvement in our fight to build • Car pool with friends or family to limit the number of vehicles on the a safer nation. Contact Sheila streets. Plovanich, Community Liaison, at • Drive with extra caution and slow down in residential areas. [email protected] or (281) • Look twice for children when exiting and entering driveways. Drive 930-2118 for more information. with headlamps on even if it's not dark so your vehicle is clearly visible to pedestrians. 5 Deer Park Police Department • If you become a victim of assault, or aggravated assault, National First Responders Day call the police immediately. If In 2017, Congress designated October 28 as National First Responders Day. you are seriously injured and The resolution honors firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and all oth- need immediate medical atten- ers who are ready to act quickly when an emergency is at hand, 24 hours a tion, go to the nearest hospital day. They risk their own safety for the sake of others. Let's thank these brave and hospital staff can contact men and women who work tirelessly around the clock to ensure our safety! the police department. If the assailant is a stranger, try to Emergency Sirens remember as many descriptors The city-operated emergency siren system only produces a siren sound. as possible, such as sex, race, You will not hear a voice message through the siren system. The sirens age, height, body type, cloth- are activated for emergency situations, such as a chemical release or ing, etc. so you have a detailed approaching tornado. In all cases, the siren is intended to alert residents to description for the police. shelter-in-place. So, stay vigilant and be aware of The City of Deer Park tests its sirens at noon on Saturdays, which is the your surroundings at all times. For same time that the City of La Porte conducts its testing. Many refining facil- more information, send an e-mail ities north of the city use similar siren systems that may include audio voice to Crime Prevention Officer K.L. messages. These systems are operated independently of the city's system and Zheng at [email protected]. testing occurs at different times. Alarm Ordinance Violations Residents are encouraged to sign up for CodeRED to receive messages from Are you in violation of the city's the city during an emergency, as well as monitor CAER online and social alarm ordinance? media outlets for updates about industry-related activities and releases. • Obtain an alarm permit if you For more information, check out the City of Deer Park's Facebook page have an alarm system, and make (www.facebook.com/deerparktx) or CAER Online (www.ehcma.org). You sure it is always updated. can also go to www.deerparktx.gov/oem, click on Emergency Notifications • Learn how to operate your icon, and then click on the CodeRED icon. alarm system, especially how to cancel an accidental alarm. Assaults on the Rise • Keep your alarm system Assaults have recently been on the rise throughout the Houston area, par- maintained. ticularly aggravated assault. An assault is when a person causes or threatens • Pay your invoice within 30 to cause bodily injury to another. Aggravated assault is an assault that caused days. serious bodily injury or a deadly weapon was exhibited during the assault. • Cancel your alarm permit if you Aggravated assault is classified as a felony. An assault, depending on the no longer have an alarm system extent of the injury, may be classified as a misdemeanor. or move.

According to Crime Stoppers of Houston, aggravated assault in the Houston The alarm ordinance is enforced area increased 9% between 2019 and 2021. Aggravated assault in Deer Park by the Deer Park Police Dept. also increased from 2019 to 2020. With rising crime, we must all strive to The City has a contract with be more vigilant about reducing or preventing crime. Below are some tips to CentralSquare Technologies for help you prevent becoming the next victim. false alarm tracking and invoic- ing services as the Deer Park False • Within seconds, an assault can become an aggravated assault. If you are Alarm Reduction Program. For involved in a heated argument that may become violent, walk away. more information, call (855) 905- • Impaired judgment caused by alcohol and drugs are contributing factors 0611, Monday through Friday, 9 in many assaults. a.m. to 5 p.m., send an e-mail to • Avoid walking alone at night, and choose a route that is well lit with [email protected], or heavy traffic. send mail to P. O. Box 844908, • If you see a disturbance that can lead to an assault, call the police. Do Dallas, TX 75284-4908. Go to not try to resolve the disturbance yourself, which may lead to additional www.crywolfservices.com/deerparktx injuries. to sign in to your account online. 6 Deer Park Police Department Safety Exchange Zone The Deer Park Police Department provides a safety exchange zone marked in yellow in the front parking lot of the police station. To ensure their safety and deter criminal activity, residents are encouraged to use this area to exchange items that were purchased online. The safety exchange zone may be used by the general public at any time without making an appointment or notifying the police department. The area is under video surveillance at all times. For more information, call (281) 479-1511. Records Requests Requests for records or information to the Deer Park Police Dept. must be made in writing. While staff cannot ask you why you are requesting a record, they can ask you to clarify or specify what you are looking for. Although you can reach the Records Unit by phone at (281) 478-2000, records information cannot be released over the phone. Written requests can be submitted by sending an e-mail to [email protected] or a fax to (281) 479-4372. You can also submit your request in person or by mail to Deer Park Police Department, Attention: Records Unit, 2911 Center Street, Deer Park, TX 77536.

Court disposition records, with the exception of Class C misdemeanors, are maintained by the Harris County District Clerk. You may contact the district clerk at (832) 927-5800 or go to www.hcdistrictclerk.com for more information. The Harris County District Clerk's Office is located at 201 Caroline, Suite 420, Houston, TX 77002. NEEDLES ACCEPTED! Go to www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/how-order-driver-record to order a copy of an individual driver record, or https://publicsite.dps.texas.gov/DpsWebsite/CriminalHistory to order a copy of information extracted from the Computerized Criminal History System, or https://cris.dot.state.tx.us/public/Purchase to order a copy of a crash report. Fees may apply.

7 Public Works private sewer line and is responsible for maintaining it. Wastewater Plumbing Problems flowing from your sinks, showers, Does your home have a plumbing problem? Call our Public Works Dept. at toilets, dishwashers, and washing (281) 478-7270 before you hire a plumber. We will issue a work request to machines come through the lateral have our sewer maintenance crew come by your address to evaluate the situ- line into the public sewer system. ation. If it turns out that the issue is on our side of the property line, we will Lateral lines can be blocked or make the repairs at no cost to the homeowner. If the issue is determined to obstructed by items flushed down be on the homeowner's side of the property line, we will inform you so that the toilet or washed down the drain. you can contact a plumber. Causes may also include tree roots, grease, and other obstructions. Clogs or blockages in a sewer line may be caused by materials settling in the pipe, resulting in a partially or completely blocked sewer pipe. Such block- Trash Bag Distribution ages can occur in the city’s main sewer line or in the private sewer service The City of Deer line. The private sewer line, also known as the lateral line, connects your Park will operate its home or building to the public sewer system. The property owner owns the trash bag distribution center in the west parking lot of the Clear Sidewalks Jimmy Burke Activity Center at 500 W. 13th Street, October 1st through School is back in session and that means children th are walking to and from school on a daily basis. 15 . The distribution center will be Please do not block the sidewalk with vehicles, Resident open on weekdays from 6 a.m. to boats, campers, etc. A blocked sidewalk forces 6 p.m. and Saturdays (Oct. 2 & 9) pedestrians to walk in the street and risk being hit Reminders! from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. by a vehicle. In late September, residential customers will receive a coupon in the mail, which will be required to redeem the boxes of trash bags. Through Oct. 15, residents will be able to drive through and pick up 2 Trim Trees and Bushes free boxes of trash bags. Beginning th th Also, as required by the city's Code Oct. 18 through Nov. 30 , resi- of Ordinances, keep all trees and dents that have not obtained their bushes trimmed so that the path on trash bags will be able to redeem sidewalks remains clear for pedes- their coupon for 2 free boxes of trians. Any low hanging branches bags by visiting the utility coun- should be trimmed. Low hanging ter at City Hall, Monday through branches should also not block stop Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please use signs or obstruct the line of sight for the back entrance to City Hall drivers. when picking up your trash bags. After the Nov. 30th deadline, trash bags will be available for purchase at the utility counter, subject to avail- Let's keep our ability, Monday through Friday, 8 children safe! a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding holidays. 8 Public Works • September 11, 1961: Category 5, Hurricane Carla, made land- Proper Disposal of Medical Sharps fall on the Texas coast with the When disposed of improperly, used hypodermic needles (sharps), disposed highest sustained wind speed of improperly, pose a life-threatening risk to sanitation employees. The City detected at 115 mph with peaks of Deer Park has had several sanitation employees injured by used sharps near 170 mph and a storm while picking up household trash bags. Most of the used sharps are likely surge of 10 feet. used for insulin; however, some could be used for illegal drug use. Because • October 4, 1995: Category 3, the history of these needles remains unknown, it is a serious situation when Hurricane Opal, made land- an employee fall on the Florida Gulf Coast. is stuck by a Sustained winds of 84 mph used and dirty were recorded with peak gusts sharp. Therefore, When the container is 3/4 full, put up to 144 mph. The storm the lid on, seal it with duct tape, and the proper dis- label "DO NOT RECYCLE." surge ranged from 10 to 20 feet posal of all sharps along the coast. is extremely • September 16, 2004: Category important for 3, Hurricane Ivan, made land- the safety of fall in Alabama with sustained our sanitation Sharps should never be winds near 120 mph and storm employees. For thrown loosely into trash surges along the Gulf Coast bags! more informa- ranging from 10 to 15 feet. tion about safely • September 24, 2005: Category disposing of 3, Hurricane Rita, made land- sharps, go to fall on the Texas/Louisiana bor- https://safeneedledisposal.org. der with sustained winds of 94 mph, gusts up to 116 mph, and Peak Hurricane Season a storm surge of up to 15 feet. Although hurricane season started back on June 1, historically, southeast • September 13, 2008: Category Texas tends to experience some of the worst storms during the months of 2, Hurricane Ike, made landfall August and September. In fact, 6 major storms have hit the Gulf Coast after in Galveston with sustained September 1. It is important not to let your guard down and stay prepared winds of 110 mph and a storm for an unexpected storm. If you don't have flood insurance, you are encour- surge of up to 20 feet. aged to do so as soon as possible since it takes 30 days for the policy to go into effect. Contact your insurance agent • September 8, 1900: The Great Galveston Hurricane made landfall with today! For more information, go to wind speeds reaching 145 mph and a storm surge of 16 feet. www.floodsmart.gov.

Employee Awards 2021 - 1st Quarter Support Staff Hannah Edwards Dispatcher - Police Dept. Field Services Jose Cossio Sanitation Crew Leader Public Works Dept. Team Awards Water & Sewer Maintenance Crews Public Works Dept. 9 Deer Park Public Library to www.deerparktx.gov/library. September 14, Police Procedural Autumn Colors Fall Craft, for ages 5-11, Sept. 7, 3:30 p.m. - In a House of Lies (A Rebus Novel We've got a fun autumn colors fall craft just for you! Materials for this craft #22) by Ian Rankin are provided free of charge. Registration is not required. October 12, Magical Fiction - Magic Lessons: A Prequel to Practical Halloween Craft, for ages 5-11, October 26, 3:30 p.m. Magic by Alice Hoffman Ready for a spooky Halloween craft? Materials for this craft are provided Nov. 9, Historical Fiction - The free of charge. Registration is not required. Twelve Clues of (Royal Spyness Mysteries) by Rhys Bowen Thanksgiving Craft, for ages 5-11, November 23, 3:30 p.m. It's time for Thanksgiving crafts! Materials for this craft are provided free of Language Classes: Beginning charge. Registration is not required. and Intermediate Spanish, ESL Tweens & Teens Cook, for ages 7-18, October 11, 11 a.m. Beginning Spanish meets on This fall we'll be making pizza rolls! Registration is required for this activity. Mondays and Wednesdays at 9 Space is limited. Registration opens on September 27. Beginning materials a.m. Intermediate Spanish meets will be provided free of charge. For more information, call (281) 478-7208 at noon on the 3rd Thursday or send an e-mail to [email protected]. of the month. Beginning ESL meets on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Just Craftin' Around - Teen November Craft, for ages 12 to 18, November 22, 4 p.m. Want to create a fun canvas art project? Registration is required for this activity. Space is limited. Registration opens on November 8. This program Storytime is offered free of charge. For more information, call (281) 478-7208 or send For ages 0 to 6 an e-mail to [email protected].

st T.A.B. Meeting, for ages 12 to 18, 1 Tuesday of the month, 4:15 p.m. STORYTIME starts at 11 a.m. Join the Teen Advisory Board and tell us what you want to see for teens at on Thursdays! Whether pre- the library. Be a part of it! Come to discuss reading trends and make sug- sented virtually or in-person, gestions for the Teen Collection. If you are interested, contact Robert at it is designed to encourage a [email protected] or pick up a form at the library. love for books and language. It incorporates books, fingerplays, Adult and Family Crafts and songs to promote interest Learn how to use new crafting materials and techniques by following along in reading and lifelong learn- each month with instructions and supplies provided by the library. Go ing. Caregivers are encouraged to www.deerparktx.gov/library, call (281) 478-7208, or send an e-mail to to watch with the children and [email protected] to find out what we will be doing this month. encourage participation. Nonfiction Book Club Want to share about your latest inspiring read or find out about must-read A special Halloween nonfiction books that you'll enjoy? Join the Nonfiction Book Club on the Storytime for infants, last Thursday of every month at 10:30 a.m. To register or for more informa- toddlers, and preschoolers tion, call (281) 478-7208 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. is planned for October 28 at 10:15 a.m. Costumes Mysteries & More Book Club are highly encouraged! The Mysteries & More Book Club plans to meet every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 4 p.m. to discuss books from a variety of genres. Check out the Library's Facebook page for more details. Future *Storytime will be assessed on a con- titles will be selected at upcoming meetings. tinual basis to determine the safest Registration is not required. Join us regardless of method of delivery, whether virtual or in person. Check out our social media whether you have read the book! For the most outlets for the latest updates. current information, call (281) 478-7208 or go 10 Deer Park Public Library New The library's Rosetta Stone account is used for vocabulary and grammar Books practice, as well as to prepare conversationally during class sessions. Go to www.deerparktx.gov/library and hover over E-Library to get started. For more information or to register, call (281) 478-7208 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Computer Classes Looking to improve your computer skills? The Deer Park Library offers daytime and evening sessions! For more information or to register, call (281) 478-7208 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. • Introduction to Computers: Learn to use the computer for everyday tasks, such as sending/receiving e-mail, searching the internet, and creat- September ing/saving documents. • High Stakes by Iris • Microsoft Excel Basics: Become familiar with Excel and learn how to Johansen create and edit basic spreadsheets, as well as use simple formulas and • A Slow Fire Burning: A functions. Novel by Paula Hawkins • Microsoft Word Basics: Learn how to create and edit Word documents, • Cloud Cuckoo Land: A including resumes and letters. Novel by Anthony Doerr October In addition, library patrons can find a variety of free classes online by going • The Three Sisters: A Novel to www.deerparktx.gov/library, hovering over E-Library on the menu at the by Heather Morris top and clicking on Gale Courses or LearningExpress Library. • The Book of Magic: A Novel (The Practical Citizenship Prep Class Magic Series #4) by Alice We're hosting a free U.S. citizenship interview preparation class begin- Hoffman ning on September 16 to kick off , September 17-23. • 2 Sisters Detective Agency The class focuses on civics, government, and history topics necessary for by James Patterson and the exam and meets Thursday at 5 p.m. until November 4. For more Candice Fox information or to register, call (281) 478-7208 or send an e-mail to November [email protected]. • Better Off Dead: A Jack Reacher Novel by Lee Texas Memorial Illumination Continued from page 1 Child and Andrew Child the courageous Texan men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice. • The Dark Hours (A Reneé As a volunteer, you will be invited to gather at the steps of the San Jacinto Ballard and Harry Bosch Monument 30 minutes prior to dusk for a brief opening ceremony and have Novel #4) by Michael the opportunity to drive through the battleground prior to the gates open- Connelly ing to the general public. • Game On: Tempting

Twenty Eight (Stephanie The City of Deer Park is expected to recruit 40 volunteers by Thursday, Plum Book #28) by Janet September 15, 2021. You may choose from 3 different days to serve: Evanovich Saturday, October 30 • Flying Angels: A Novel by Saturday, November 13 Danielle Steel Sunday, November 14

Select the date that best suits your schedule and sign up to volunteer! Please note that the volunteer opportunities on November 13 and 14 will be out- doors and require some walking and bending. If anyone in the Deer Park community is interested in signing up, please contact City Council member Sherry Garrison at [email protected].

For more information on the Texas Memorial Illumination, go to https://texasmemorialilluminationatsanjacinto.com. 11 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT UPDATE

PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT TYPE B DEDICATED SALES TAX PROJECTS COMPLETED • Maxwell Adult Center • Girls Softball Complex • Dow Park Pavilion • Deer Park Soccer Complex • Spencerview Athletic Complex (with the exception of the pedestrian bridge)

IN PROGRESS • Plans for the Spencerview Bridge, a planned pedestrian bridge to connect the Spencerview Athletic Complex (Durant Fields) to the adjoining property donated to the City of Deer Park for the development of additional parking and a new park/playground area, have been completed. CobbFendley & Associates provided the design, studied the floodplain requirement, and submitted the plans for approval by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD). The City of Deer Park was asked by the HCFCD to identify access to the bridge so City staff is discussing the easement with the adjacent property owner to gain and use access for drainage chan- nel maintenance. Once negotiations are complete, City staff anticipates meeting all of the criteria set forth by HCFCD and moving forward to request bids for the construction of the bridge. • Community Center – Subsequent to the Type B election, the City engaged a team of professionals (engineers, architects, and an accessibility consultant) to tour the Community Center facility and conduct a Building Observations Survey. Some of the key conclusions/considerations contained in the Building Observations Survey report were: 1) It would be very expensive to make permanent repairs to the structure; 2) The City should consider replacement versus repair of the Community Center, and 3) The cost and consequences of disruption of services should also be considered. The conclusion of the architects/engineers that studied the facility was that permanent repairs would be very expensive, so much so that they believed that the City should seriously consider replacement versus repair of the Community Center. Beginning on July 23, 2018, the City Council, the Deer Park Community Development Corporation (DPCDC) and the Parks and Recreation Commission conducted a total of eight joint meetings to discuss the Community Center project. The complexities and chal- lenges associated with renovating and expanding the Community Center and Gym to include an indoor pool were discussed at length. As the project was studied further, it became apparent that the cost of the renovations and structural repairs to the existing facilities, let alone adding an indoor therapy pool, would well exceeded $6 million. Ultimately, the consensus was that the best option was to ask the Deer Park voters if they would like to conduct a new Type B sales tax and use tax election to authorize additional Type B purposes, including the new Community/Recreation Center. A May 1, 2021 Type B continuation election was called at which voters authorized the Type B sales and use tax to be continued and authorized additional uses of the tax to include the new Community/Recreation Center Complex. In June 2021, City Council authorized staff, as recommended by the DPCDC, to negotiate a contract with Brinkley Sargent Wiginton Architects for the design of the new Community/Recreation Center. The proposed Community/Recreation Center complex is currently proposed to consist of 3 new buildings, each located on the north side of Dow Park. The first building (Community Center), to be constructed next to City Hall, is intended to house the activity, program, and meeting rooms, as well as staff offices. The second building (Recreation Center) is intended to house the gymnasium, indoor walking track, and indoor pool, which is to be built on the site of the current Community Center and Gymnasium after demolition of the existing buildings. The third building would be a new, outdoor swimming pool bathhouse replacing the existing structure. The anticipated timeline for construction of the new Community/Recreation Center Complex is approximately 44 months. The estimated cost is approximately $42.6 million. Cost estimates include all professional services, such as architectural, engineering, geotechnical, surveying, as well as construc- tion and the furniture and equipment for the facilities.

12 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT UPDATE

• Hike and Bike Trails, Phase 1 - On February 5, 2019, the Deer Park Community Development Corporation recommended and City Council approved a contract with Burditt Consultants, LLC for professional services in the development of the comprehensive hike and bike trail system. This is one of the original Type B proj- ects. Burditt Consultants is working on project design and management, as well as other services as required by the scope of work for site feasibility and trail master plan implementation. Anticipated cost for this project is $500,000. The committee, consisting of members from City Council, the Deer Park Community Development Corporation, Parks and Recreation Commission, and City staff, selected Phase 1 as a 1.04 mile Tributary B to Willowspring Creek. The contract for construction design services with Burditt Consultants, LLC for Phase 1 was approved by the Community Development Corporation on October 28, 2019 and by City Council on November 5, 2019. Midtown Engineers, LLC, an independent traffic engineering firm, worked on the design, which included developing crosswalk safety specifications. On December 15, 2020, City Council approved entering into an agreement with CenterPoint Energy regarding trail access in the easement, which affects approx- imately 145 feet of the trail. A Request for Proposal is in development for this project. Construction is expected to begin this fall and completed in 120 days.

OTHER PARKS AND RECREATION PROJECTS • In Phase I and II of the New Dow Park Bridges project, the Parks and Recreation Department replaced 4 of the 8 pedestrian bridges in Dow Park with new 8' x 23' galvanized steel bridges, completing Phase I in spring 2021 and Phase II in summer 2021. Funds from a previously planned project in Fiscal Year 2020-2021 were reallo- cated for the 2 bridges in Phase III, which are currently in production. This will leave 2 remaining bridges that need to be replaced, which are included in the FY 2021-2022 budget. Total cost for the 2 bridges in Phase III is $91,463, which includes materials, freight, and installation. • One of the exterior columns in the Front Entry at the Court and Theater Building was damaged. After further evaluation, a structural engineer determined that deterioration damaged the structural integrity of the columns so the decision was made to remove the columns completely. The City hired Frost Construction at a cost of $51,000 to remove the columns. This part of the project has been completed. • The Parks and Recreation Department continues to work on finding a solution to the Drainage Issue at the Court and Theater Building. The project focuses on diverting water away from the facility and replacing the glass doors at the front entry. Installation of the new glass entry doors was completed in mid-summer. The doors were purchased and installed by ABCO Door for $16,977. The City hired W&R Construction to mobilize, grade, and sod the area in front of the building, as well as install pipes and grates for drainage at an estimated cost of $23,800. Anticipated completion is by fall 2021. • The City of Deer Park received a grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the future Northeast Hike and Bike Trail. RVi Planning was selected as the landscape architecture firm to develop the design and layout of the trail. According to the preliminary conceptual design, the trail will begin at Park Green Park and extend south to Runningbrook Park, offering several trail and path connections along the way. Construction plans have been completed by RVi Planning. A Request for Proposal for the project was released. Construction is expected to begin in October and completed in 120 days. The project is being funded with $200,000 from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department grant, in addition to $170,000 from the General Fund. • The Parks and Recreation Department replaced the Fence around Dow Park Pool with a new 10' fence and security gates. The project was completed this summer by Foster Fence LTD for an estimated $149,759. • Repairs are needed on Bulkheads at The Battleground Golf Course at holes # 9, 13 and 14. The project involves obtaining bids that include the addition of vinyl bulkheads to help prevent erosion and the loss of greens adjacent to water areas. Anticipated completion of the project is by fall 2021 at an estimated cost of $27,200.

13 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT UPDATE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT COMPLETED The project consists of rehabilitating waterlines using the pre-chlorinated 2021 Waterline Rehabilitation pipe bursting method, which includes 2,000 linear feet of 8” pipe replace- Started: March 2021 ment on Center St., and W. 3rd St., 2,000 linear feet on Kitty Lane, and Completed: July 2021 1,100 linear feet of new waterline connecting Jefferson St. to Center St. The Cost: $599,880.09 improvements enable the system to achieve better water quality for our resi- dents. Services for this project were purchased from SKE, Inc. through the BuyBoard Cooperative Purchasing Program in the amount of $599,880.09. Construction began in March 2021 and completed in July 2021.

This project is for the rehabilitation of the interior Coy Street Elevated Water and exterior of the 500,000 gallon elevated water stor- Storage Tank Rehabilitation age tank. It is being funded out of the Series 2019 Started: November 2020 Certificates of Obligation. Dunham Engineering was Completed: August 2021 hired to prepare the engineering design work for the Cost: $419,000 rehabilitation of the tank and perform the inspections on the tank at a cost of $85,000. On August 4, 2020, DSP Industrial was awarded the project at a cost of $419,000. Construction started in November 2020. Initially, the project was expected to be completed by this March. However, due to weather complications and other minor issues, progress slowed down. The project was completed in early August 2021. IN PROGRESS 2021 Street Striping This project consists of applying paint and reflective pavement marking at Started: September 2021 various locations around the city. Final location selections will depend on Anticipated Completion: the bid obtained. The project was in the planning phase this summer and October 2021 planned to be advertised and awarded in August. Cost is undetermined at Cost: Undetermined this time.

SWTP Solids Handling The Ardurra Group was hired to Improvements prepare the design, specifications, Started: September 2020 and engineering plans for solids han- Anticipated Completion: dling improvements at the Surface January 2022 Water Treatment Plant (SWTP). The Cost: $4,453,685 improvements involve the construction of several new facilities at the SWTP, including a sludge thickener behind the existing holding basin. Changes to 14 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT UPDATE

the holding basin will allow the sludge to be thickened and caught prior to going into the lagoons. Thus, enabling the plant to reuse some of the water it loses through backwashing and desludging the clarifiers. The project will be funded with $4.5 million out of the Water and Sewer Certificates of Obligation. The project was awarded to CSA Construction in the amount of $4,453,685. Construction started in September 2020 and is on schedule to be completed in 480 days - January 2022.

2021 Concrete Maintenance The project consists of repairing or replacing concrete pavement, sidewalks, Contract curbs, and gutters. This is a work order based program, which will be used for emergency and maintenance issues. Services for this project were pur- Cost: $398,616.24 chased from SKE, Inc. through the BuyBoard Cooperative Purchasing Status: Ongoing Program in the amount $398,616.24, which is budgeted in the Streets fund for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.

Hurricane Harvey, Storm CobbFendley was hired to perform engineering services to develop ways Drainage Projects to alleviate flooding associated with the 2017 Hurricane Harvey. In June Started: June 2018 2018, the initial agreement focused engineering design services on Heritage Anticipated Completion: Addition and Deer Meadows Subdivisions. Deer Park Manor and Delo- Undetermined Elaine Subdivisions were added in February 2019. In June 2019, the agree- Engineering Services Cost: $504,290 ment was amended to also include an analysis of historical repetitive flooded areas in the city. CobbFendley reported the findings of their study to City Council on November 19, 2019. The proposed locations are in different phases of the study. • Heritage Addition, Deer Park Manor and Delo-Elaine Subdivisions: » Heritage Addition - The project was awarded to Mar-Con Services, LLC in the amount of $1.989 million. Construction began in August 2020 and completed in August 2021. The City of Deer Park entered into an interlocal agreement (ILA) with Precinct 2/ Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) to jointly fund this project. Deer Park was awarded $2,047,461 through the ILA for storm sewer improvements, including a detention pond on Lambuth Street, storm sewer and inlets, as well as a new roadway on Lincoln Street. A ribbon cutting ceremony, with representatives from the City of Deer Park, HCFCD, and Precinct 2 in atten- dance, is planned for after the project's completion. » Deer Park Manor and Delo-Elaine - The project was awarded to Mar-Con Services, LLC in the amount of $1.653 million. Construction began in August 2021 and expected to be completed in early 2022. The City of Deer Park entered into an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with Precinct 2/Harris County Flood Control District to jointly fund this project. The City of Deer Park was awarded $1,005,985 through the ILA for storm sewer improve- ments, including a detention pond on Pasadena Blvd., storm sewer inlets, as well as a new roadway and outfalls on both Kitty Street and Luella Ave. • College Park - Construction plans are not in development yet. Options being considered with estimated costs between $5.3 mil- lion to $5.9 million for pavement and drainage items, including land acquisition, engineering, design, inspection, and testing costs. 15 CONSTRUCTION PROJECT UPDATE

A budget amendment was approved for 50% of the project cost with Precinct 2/HCFCD through an ILA to be negotiated. • Deer Park Gardens: The project is a multi-phased (approximately 8 phases) drainage improvement plan within the Deer Park Gardens study area. The Norwood drainage improvement project is the first phase. The design is complete and construction plans include new storm sewer and inlets on Norwood, and a new storm sewer on E. 8th Street. Engineering and construction cost estimates for this phase are $500,000. City staff plans to solicit for bids by September 2021. Construction is anticipated to start shortly thereafter. A budget amendment was approved for 50% of the project cost with Precinct 2/HCFCD through an ILA to be negotiated. The project aims to reduce structural flood risk, particularly at the mid-blocks on Norwood Street and Martha Street between E. 8th Street and Marlene Street. • Boggy Bayou Watershed: An engineering drainage study began in June 2020 with results presented to Deer Park City Council on November 3, 2020. The study was awarded to CobbFendley in the amount of $84,560, and jointly funded through an ILA with Precinct 2/HCFCD. Deer Park was awarded $42,280 through the ILA. The drainage study included areas in the Boggy Bayou water- shed and proposed improvements to the main channel (G105-00- 00), channel tributaries, interconnected storm sewer, and the pos- sible construction of storm water detention. The drainage study area project boundaries were the Houston Ship Channel, Center Street, Pasadena Boulevard/Red Bluff Road, and the Sam Houston Tollway/ Beltway 8 (north, east, south and west boundaries, respectively). The drainage study identified over 30 different individual options that could be pursued to potentially mitigate flooding, with a con- glomeration of several individual options combined into 4 poten- tial alternatives. The solution involves a regional cooperative effort between the Harris County Flood Control District, City of Deer Park, City of Pasadena, Harris County Precinct 2, Harris County Toll Road Authority, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Port of Houston, and Texas Department of Transportation, as well as private facility operators, such as the chemical industry, pipe- line operators, electric transmission operators, private landholders and other restricted easement owners and entities. This project will require significant resources in terms of engineering design, overall construction time, contractor capabilities, materials procurement, legal contracts, interlocal agreements, facility relocations, title deed/ ownership/easement research, sequencing, cooperation, safety, and cost. Recommendations made as a result of the engineering analysis are being further investigated for feasibility.

16 Adjustment. Council Actions • Approved an ordinance Regular City Council meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday appointing 2 members to of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. the Planning and Zoning Special meetings and workshops are held as needed. To view full agen- Commission. das and meeting minutes or to listen to the audio recordings, go to • Approved an ordinance https://cityofdeerpark.legistar.com/calendar.aspx. appointing members to the Parks and Recreation May 2021 Commission. • Approved the canvassing of votes for the May 1, 2021 City General and • Approved an ordinance calling Special Elections. a joint public hearing to rezone • Approved an ordinance canvassing and declaring the results of the City 1812 Center St. TR 143A Deer General Election held on May 1, 2021. Park Outlots from General • Approved an ordinance canvassing and declaring the results of the Bond Commercial (GC) to Office Election held on May 1, 2021. and Professional (OF) to build • Approved an ordinance canvassing and declaring the results of the Type a multi-tenant building for gen- B Special Election held on May 1, 2021. eral professional offices. • Approved the certificates of election. • Administered the oaths of office. June 2021 • Rescinded the awarding of the bid and rejected the bids received for the • Awarded the bid for a one- construction of the Hike and Bike Trail, as well as authorized the rebid year supply of refuse bags process. to Houston Poly Bag in the • Accepted the Quarterly Investment Report for the quarter ending amount of $165,800. March 31, 2021. • Awarded the bid for a one-year • Accepted the Deer Park Community Development Corporation’s quar- supply of gasoline and diesel terly report for the period of January 1, 2021 – March 31, 2021. fuel to Fikes Wholesale, Inc. • Authorized staff to advertise and received bids for the Surface Water • Authorized staff to seek Treatment Plant Yard Pipe Painting project. proposals to provide meals • Authorized the purchase and replacement of the irrigation pump sys- for the Parks & Recreation tems at The Battleground Golf Course in the amount of $136,751. Department, Theater Division • Authorized the Deer Park High School Project Graduation signage on dinner shows. Center Street from May 22-26, 2021. • Approved the purchase of a • Authorized a one-year renewal contract with Carus, LLC for sodium mobile command post and hexametaphosphate at the Water Treatment Plant. communications trailer in the • Approved the purchase of emergency equipment to outfit 5 of the 2021 amount of $84,860. Chevy Tahoe vehicles for the Police Department in the amount of • Approved a Notice of Intention $68,213.70. to issue Certificates of • Awarded the bid/sale of the residential structure at 518 E. Pasadena Obligation for the construc- Blvd. to Cherry House Sales. tion of Deer Park Community • Authorized staff to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for archi- Development Corporation Type tectural services in the planning and design of Fire Department bond- B funded improvements as rec- funded facilities. ommended by the DPCDC. • Accepted the completion of the Maxwell and X Street Sanitary Sewer • Authorized staff to negotiate a Rehabilitation project. Final cost was $514,279.22. contract with Brinkley Sargent • Approved a contract with Crowder Gulf, LLC for disaster debris Wiginton Architects for the removal services. design of the new Community/ • Accepted the letter of non-renewal for the Community Center Recreation Center. Pre-School. • Approved the renewal of a 3 • Approved the submission of a grant through the Bulletproof Vest year contract with Economic Partnership Grant Act. Alliance Houston Port Region • Approved a resolution adopting rules governing the receipt of electronic for Economic Development bids and proposals through CIVCAST for construction projects. Services. • Approved an ordinance appointing 2 alternate members to the Board of • Approved the purchase of a 17 • Approved an agreement to Council Actions renew the School Resource new roof replacement at the Surface Water Treatment Plant to Atlas Officers (SRO)/Crossing Guard Universal Roofing in the amount of $80,169. Interlocal Agreement with • Approved the purchase of a replacement vehicle for the Parks & Deer Park Independent School Recreation Department Senior Services Division via the Goodbuy District for the 2021-2022 Cooperative Purchasing Contract in the amount of $30,364.25. school year. • Approved a resolution expressing intent to issue obligations to reimburse • Approved an ordinance calling expenditures paid prior to issuance of obligations. for two Public Hearings regard- • Awarded the bid for the Yard Pipe Painting project at the Surface Water ing the juvenile curfew. Treatment Plant to D & M Tank in the amount of $66,800. • Approved the calling of a Public • Authorized staff to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for profes- Hearing on the proposed Fiscal sional engineering services in the design and construction phase of the Year 2021-2022 Crime Control 2021 Street Improvement project. & Prevention District budget. • Accepted the completion and release of final payment for the renova- • Approved the calling of a Public tions of the golf course bunkers to Fusion Golf, Ltd. Final cost was Hearing on the proposed Fiscal $168,804.60. Year 2021-2022 Fire Control, • Accepted the Quarterly Financial Report for the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Prevention and Emergency second quarter ending March 31, 2021. Medical Services District • Approved an ordinance to amend the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Budget budget. related to an emergency generator in the Police Department • Authorized the purchase and installation of various capital improve- ment items at the Public Works Transfer Station and Deer Park Police Sharing Deer Park's Department. • Authorized staff to seek a grant from Shell USA in the amount of Early History $5,000 to provide funding for the Deer Park Animal Shelter Woofstock The City of event. Deer Park • Authorized staff to seek a grant from Shell USA in the amount of Historical $5,000 to provide funding for tactical gunshot and trauma kits in patrol Committee units. continues • Approved an ordinance establishing a new Article IV - Wireless Network th to search for Civic Center on 6 Street Providers - for the purpose of regulating wireless network providers in items important to our local the City of Deer Park right-of-way. history, focusing on the people, • Approved an ordinance amending Appendix B-Section 94-106(b) to add places, and events of our early a wireless network providers fee schedule to the Code of Ordinances. history. Over the years, local • Approved an ordinance approving the Vopak Moda Houston, LLC residents have shared pictures, Industrial District Agreement. letters, documents, and artifacts, • Approved an ordinance to rezone 1812 Center St. TR 143A Deer Park which are displayed in our cabi- Outlots from General Commercial (GC) to Office and Professional nets throughout the city. Share (OF) to build a multi-tenant building for general professional offices. your items so residents and visitors can learn more about July 2021 the early history of Deer Park. • Authorized the issuance of a Request for Proposals for mowing services Items donated or loaned for on designated rights-of-way within the City of Deer Park. copying are added to our digital • Approved an agreement with Midtown Engineering for the design of database. flashing yellow arrows along East Boulevard and Center Street. • Accepted the certification of the anticipated Tax Collection Rate. Thank you for your con- • Approved a request for funding assistance through the Texas Division of tinued support. Contact Emergency Management for Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Sherry Garrison, Chair of provided by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. the Historical Committee at • Authorized a Request for Proposals for grant management services for [email protected] for the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds provided by the American more information. Rescue Plan Act of 2021. 18 Theater Economic Development A Division of the Parks & Rec. Dept. • I Heart Mac & Cheese, a unique fast-casual restaurant, is open at 8015 Spencer Highway in the former location of SmashBurger. This franchise specializes in made-to- order and fully customizable Build-Your- Own Bowls. You choose the pasta, cheese, veggies, proteins, and sauce. They also have amazing grilled cheese sandwiches, kids’ meals, fresh sides like cheesy broccoli or tomato soup, chef’s specials, and desserts. • Welsh Collision Center at 4201 Center St., next door to Hellyer Transmission, recently celebrated 11 years in business. Owner Brad Welsh has grown the business Urinetown: The Musical to become one of the region’s most success- Urine for a great time at the Art ful and trusted collision centers, bringing Park Players' 2021-2022 season in customers from as far away as Galveston, opening show! A 20-year drought Pearland, and downtown Houston. causes a severe water shortage lead- • After 2 successful years in business, Beauty Studio by Frida relocated to ing to a government ban on private a larger facility at 1010 Center St., across the toilets and the emergence of paid street from Antonio’s Restaurant. They special- public toilets owned by one com- ize in waxing, threading, brow microblading, pany. This original and hilarious facials, makeup application, and more. musical, Urinetown, takes you to • Eskimo Hut is open at 9001 Spencer Highway in the retail center in a place in time where you have to front of Walmart. Eskimo Hut is a chain of drive-through convenience pay to . . . well, you know. It's a stores with frozen daiquiris and margaritas to go. They have all the ame- place where the rich get richer, and nities of a regular convenience store, plus loaded gummies and Jell-O the poor get poorer! That is, until shots. the poor decide that they aren't • Cattle Drive BBQ at 2718 Center St. is now offering 3 different types of going to take it anymore! Winner power bowls that are healthy, filling, and delicious. Choose from grilled of 3 Tony Awards, Urinetown: The chicken, pulled pork, or brisket bowls. Other ingredients include beans, Musical is an uproarious tale of corn, rice, lettuce, avocado, and tomato. greed, love, and revolution. • Deer Park resident Glen Beran has opened Sarge’s Power Wash. This veteran owned and Dinner & show tickets are on sale operated home- for $40 each, while show only based business will tickets are $18. Performances at leave your property looking gor- the Municipal Court and Theater geous. Call him today at (281) Building are on October 8, 9, 10, 241-9789. For more information, 15, 16, 17, 22 & 23. go to www.sargespowerwash.com or check out his Facebook page To purchase tickets, call the Box @SargesPowerWash. Office at (281) 794-2448. For questions, contact Debbie Westbeld, Economic Development Administrator, at (281) 478-2042 or [email protected]. For busi- ness news, go to www.deerparktx.gov/ed.

19 Presorted Std. U.S. Postage PAID Deer Park, Texas Permit #15

P.O. Box 700 Deer Park, TX 77536

Animal Control A Division of the Deer Park Police Dept. Woofstock 2021 We're going back in time to 1969! The Deer Park Animal Shelter and Adoption Center invites you to Woofstock, a groovy dogs-only adoption event for the entire family! Join us on Saturday, September 25, from 4:30 to 10 p.m. at Dow Park, located at 610 E. San Augustine. It's free to attend and includes live music and vendors offering outtasight goodies. Several regional shelters will be present with plenty of puppies and dogs available for adoption. Can you dig it? For more informa- tion, check out our Facebook page by searching for Deer Park Animal Shelter and Adoption Center. You can reach us at (281) 478-7274, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Maxwell Center Parks and Recreation A Division of the Parks & Rec. Dept. Visiting Our Parks Senior Holiday Banquet Deer Park has over 20 parks for you and your family to enjoy. Each park Save the date for our Senior features something unique, such as walking trails, play-scapes, picnic tables Holiday Banquet on Monday, and so much more! Go to www.deerparktx.gov/parksandrec and check out December 13 at the Jimmy Burke the list of parks under the Facilities & Rentals menu option. Activity Center, located at 500 W. 13th Street. This event is free Reindeer Park for residents and available to It's snowing in Deer Park again! Come enjoy snow non-residents for $10 per person. areas, snow slides, S'mores making, music, and pic- Registration begins on October 4 tures with Santa. Be on the lookout for information for residents and on November 1 regarding wristband sales, which give you access to for non-residents. To register, call the snow areas and more. the Maxwell Adult Center at (281) 478-7276.