Winter 2025 Inside La Marque Volume 28

Winter 2025

I N S I D E LA MARQUE

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

Vision 2050 Municipal Excellence Awards Fire Department: The Rachel Project

GENE SMITH Chairman La Marque EDC Board ALEX GETTY Executive Director La Marque EDC 409-938-9258

View our Shine On video series on Youtube by scanning this QR Code 2

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CONTENTS

MARIELLE MASCORRO Public Relations Specialist La Marque EDC 409-938-9255

Martin Luther King, Jr. 05 Dr. Day Parade

07 WM Updates 08 Vision 2050 Spring Break 09 Library Program Weather Safety 10 Winter Tips Excellence 12 Municipal Awards

13 The Rachel Project 14 Employee Spotlight

La Marque EDC 1130 1st Street La Marque, TX 77568

FOLLOW US TO STAY UPDATED ON IMPORTANT LA MARQUE NEWS facebook.com/LaMarqueEDC

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR As we wind down another holiday season, we are blessed to enter a new year. 2025 promises to be our best year yet.

DOWNLOAD THE CITY OF LA MARQUE’S APP!

In 2025 we are proud to be an All-America City! We are FINALLY being recognized for what we know to be true about our fair city.... La Marque is the place to be in this new year! With new businesses opening monthly, new homes being built, new infrastructure including sewer and street improvements, new staff members and a brand new high school and stadium, we have a lot to look forward to in 2025!

SCAN THE QR CODE AND STAY UP-TO-DATE ON CITY NEWS AND EVENTS, PAY BILLS AND REPORT CONCERNS TO THE CITY!

Hello Friends,

Available on iPhone & Android devices

Challenges, obstacles, and concerns will undoubtedly arise, but as always, we will meet the moment, grow, and show you why we are one of the 10 All-America cities for 2024.

I am so excited to witness the continued growth and development of La Marque!!! So get ready, put on your shades and buckle up!

IT'S STILL SUNNY IN LA MARQUE!!!

Keep an eye out for the City's Quarterly Progress Report in your mailbox!

Mayor Keith Bell

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CITY UPDATES CALENDAR OF EVENTS JANUARY 13 City Council Meeting City Offices Closed Luther King Jr. Day & 20 Martin MLK Day Parade

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FEBRUARY

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Receive Updates About: Emergency Alerts City Events Community News and Updates Automated NOAA Weather Alerts

Available on iPhone & Android devices

Scan the QR Code to sign up for CivicReady Alerts.

7 Night to Shine 10 City Council Meeting 24 City Council Meeting 28 Go Texan Day

Scan for more details about Night to Shine

MARCH 10 City Council Meeting Bon Temps Rouler 21 & 22 Cajun Throwdown

24 City Council Meeting Scan the QR Code to stay up to date on the latest Calendar of Events!

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GO TEXAN DAY February 28

MLK DAY PARADE Thirteenth Annual

Martin Luther King Jr. Parade January 20, 2025 at 10:00am Line-up 8:30am | La Marque High School 300 Vauthier Rd., La Marque, TX Celebration program immediately following the parade at Greater Bell Zion Missionary Baptist Church!

VEND O BOOT R H S AVAIL ABLE

Contact: Nakisha Paul 409-766-0049 or Constable Derreck Rose 409-739-5665

!

We are

HIRING JOIN OUR TEAM APPLY NOW

More Info or

JOBS.CITYOFLAMARQUE.ORG SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE

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CITY UPDATES City of La Marque Awarded $20,000 Grant from NRPA's Workforce Development Community of Practice The City of La Marque is pleased to announce its selection as a participant in the National Recreation and Park Association's (NRPA)

The $20,000 grant will be utilized to: • Develop and Implement Workforce Development Programs: Creating initiatives that equip youth with essential job skills and experiences.

• Provide Technical Assistance and Training: Offering resources and support to staff for effective program delivery.

• Facilitate Peer Learning Opportunities: Engaging with other agencies to share best practices and innovative approaches.

Workforce Development Community of Practice (CoP), accompanied by a $20,000 grant. This initiative aims to enhance workforce development programming for youth aged 14-21 through outof-school time (OST) services.

of Practice allows us to expand our efforts in preparing La Marque's youth for future employment opportunities.

This grant will enable us to enhance our programs, providing valuable skills and experiences that will benefit our community's young people."

The NRPA's Workforce Development CoP is a 12-month program designed to support rural park and recreation agencies in providing workforce experiences for youth.

It offers technical assistance, peer learning opportunities, and resources to develop and strengthen workforce development programs.

The City of La Marque is committed to leveraging this opportunity to foster economic empowerment among its youth, ensuring they are well-prepared for future career opportunities.

City Manager Cesar Garcia expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, stating, "Participating in NRPA's Workforce Development Community

City of La Marque Awarded $904,306; SB224 Catalytic Converter Grant to Enhance Police Equipment and Combat Vehicle Theft The City of La Marque is proud to announce the receipt of a $904,306 grant from the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA) under the SB224 Catalytic Converter Grant program. This significant funding will be allocated to the La Marque Police Department (LMPD) to acquire advanced equipment aimed at preventing and addressing catalytic converter thefts and other motor vehicle crimes.

Catalytic converter theft has emerged as a prevalent issue nationwide, with thieves targeting these vehicle components for the valuable metals they contain. The SB224 grant program, established by the Texas Legislature, empowers local law enforcement agencies to implement effective strategies against such crimes.

Chief Randall Aragon of the La Marque Police Department expressed gratitude

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for the grant, stating, "This funding enables us to enhance our capabilities in combating catalytic converter theft and motor vehicle crimes. By investing in state-ofthe-art equipment and training, we aim to significantly reduce these incidents and improve public safety in our community."

City Manager Cesar Garcia highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, "Protecting our residents and their property is a top priority. This grant not only strengthens our police department's resources but also reinforces our commitment to ensuring La Marque remains a safe place to live and work."

The City of La Marque extends its appreciation to the MVCPA for their support and to the community for its ongoing

Specialized Tools and Procurement Technologies: • Advanced Surveillance Systems: Highdefinition cameras and license plate readers to monitor and deter criminal activities.

• Forensic Equipment: Tools to assist in the investigation and prosecution of catalytic converter thefts.

• Community Engagement Resources: Materials to educate residents on preventive measures and encourage community involvement in crime prevention. cooperation in crime prevention efforts.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about safety initiatives and participate in community programs aimed at reducing crime.

CITY UPDATES WM AT YOUR DOOR COLLECTION Did you know that certain items, like paint, batteries, electronics, and household cleaners, don't belong in your regular trash? Fortunately, WMS offers an easy solution through its "At Your Door" Special Collection Service. This program allows residents to schedule a convenient home collection of various hazardous and electronic waste items. Simply visit WMAtYourDoor.com or call 1-800-449-7587 to arrange a pickup. After scheduling, follow the provided instructions for safe disposal. By using this free service, you help keep your community clean while ensuring most collected items are recycled or reused.

Scan this QR Code to Learn More

RECYCLE GUIDE Always Recycle Plastic Bottles & Containers Paper Glass Bottles & Containers Flattened Cardboard & Paperboard Food & Beverage Cans

Do Not Include In Your Recycling Container Food or Liquids Foam Cups & Containers Green Waste Batteries Loose Plastic Bags, Bagged Recyclables or Film Clothing, Furniture or Carpet

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VISION 2050 Bulding a Shared Future for La Marque

V

ision 2050 is a collaborative effort to shape our city's growth and development over the next 25 years. In partnership with Collaborate Architects, we are actively gathering input through a series of vision meetings, community discussions, and stakeholder engagements to create a comprehensive roadmap that reflects the collective aspirations, needs, and values of our residents. This inclusive process aims to ensure that every voice is heard and that the future of our city is shaped by the diverse perspectives of those who call it home.

A recent Vision 2050 meeting saw more than 50 community members come together to collaborate on crafting a vision and mission statement for the city. This important session sparked meaningful conversations, offering valuable insights into what our community envisions for the future. We are now eagerly awaiting the results from that meeting, which will help guide the next steps in this ongoing effort to build a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive city for generations to come.

Topics of Interest: • What does La Marque Need?

• What sets La Marque Apart?

• Future of La Marque • Celebrating La Marque • Community Development • Healthcare & Wellness • Education 8

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LA MARQUE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Spring Break at La Marque Public Library March 18 - 22, 2025 Schedule of events: Tuesday, March 18: Field Games and Crafts in Feigel Park at 2:00pm Wednesday, March 19: Boba Tea Tasting at 2:00pm Thursday, March 20: Game Night at 4:00-6:00pm Friday, March 21: Ice Cream Science at 2:00pm Saturday, March 22: Movie Night in the Park at 7:00pm

ONGOING WEEKLY PROGRAMS Wednesdays Active Living Every Day classes 4:00pm-5:00pm Spin-a-Yarn Knit and Crochet Club 2:00pm Storytime - 10:30am

Thursdays Anime Club – 5:00pm

UPCOMING EVENTS Winter Wonderland Saturday, January 25 12:00pm-2:00pm

Come-and-Go Kindness Crafts A celebration of Random Acts of Kindness Week

February 11 - 15

Pokémon Celebration Saturday, February 22 12:00pm-2:00pm

Scan the QR Code to stay up to date on the latest Library Events!

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PUBLIC WORKS BE PREPARED

WINTER WEATHER SAFETY TIPS

As the winter season approaches, now is the time to be proactive in prepping for the potential hazards of colder temperatures. You should protect your pipes from freezing because frozen pipes can burst causing significant water damage to your home. When water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on pipes, which can cause them to burst, regardless of the material they are made from. Please see the precautionary safety tips below that could help possibly prevent damage to your home during this winter season.

PREPARE BEFORE A FREEZE:

Insulate outdoor and indoor pipes in unheated areas using rags, newspaper, or other insulating material, and cover them with plastic.

Remove water hoses and turn off the water to outside spigots and drain any remaining water.

Drain and turn off your lawn sprinkler system.

If you leave your house before a freeze, turn off the water at the shutoff valve on your house and leave the heat on.

PROTECT YOUR PIPES WHEN IT FREEZES:

Open cabinets, vanities, and cupboards to allow the heat from your house to warm the pipes.

Allow a small amount of water to drip from the faucets to keep water circulating and prevent freezing.

Keep your thermostat set above 55°F during cold weather.

If your pipes freeze, turn off the water at the shutoff valve. This prevents broken pipes from leaking into your house after they thaw.

Employee Recognition The City recently began a new in-house mosquito control operation program. Public Works was given the task of finding the perfect candidate for the job. They would like to introduce Public Works very own "Mosquito Man", Kenneth Sumlin. Sumlin has been with the City of La Marque since January 2024. Since his time here, he has proven to be a most loyal and dedicated member of this department as well as the community. He strives for excellence and always pushes himself to be better and to do better. Sumlin took the initiative and volunteered himself for the program, making him the first employee to kick off a program that will eventually expand in the coming years.

Coming to a Neighborhood Near You On June 9, 2024, the City of La Marque was awarded and nationally recognized as an All-America City. Since then, the city has been changing the face of La Marque in order to promote being an All-America City and we are proud to bring you a sneak peek of the new street identification signs coming to a neighborhood near you.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Employee Hiring, Retention & Interviewing Resources Join us along with Workforce Solutions and learn about their many no-cost programs available to small business owners. They offer many options that can help you save time and money and hire and retain talent. This session is part of Mayor Bell's Small Business Series.

Highlights Workforce Solutions On the Job Training Program Free assistance with interviewing and recruitment Internship programs Other free programs for small business owners

Monday February 10, 2025 5:30pm - 7:00pm La Marque Public Library 1011 Bayou Road, La Marque, Tx Reserve your spot today!

Scan the QR Code to register!

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MUNICIPAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS

T

he City of La Marque was honored with the Municipal Excellence Award in Public Safety for its crime reduction initiatives at the Texas Municipal League Annual Conference.

The Municipal Excellence Awards celebrate and promote the achievements of Texas cities in overcoming the challenges of municipal governance. La Marque earned the award for implementing innovative policing strategies, which included community-oriented policing, supporting the Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force, and introducing CompStat briefings to help reduce crime.

The awards program recognizes exceptional programs in two population categories—under 25,000 and over 25,000—and five areas: management innovations, communication programs, city spirit, public safety, and public works, as defined by the municipal league.

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THE RACHEL PROJECT The Rachel Project: Creating Inclusive Easter Egg Hunts for Blind and Visually Impaired Children An article by City of La Marque Fire Marshal Brennan Briggs.

The La Marque Fire Marshal's Office, in collaboration with The La Marque Professional Firefighters Association and the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators (IABTI), is proud to introduce a pioneering event aimed at fostering inclusion within our community: the very first Easter Egg Hunt for Blind and Visually Impaired Children, is set to take place on April 12th, 2025. This initiative, known as "The Rachel Project," emerges from the heart of a touching personal story that emphasizes the importance of independence and accessibility for all children.

The Rachel Project was conceived by David Hyche, an IABTI member, spurred by his experience as the father of a visually impaired child, Rachel. Since her infancy, David has observed an essential need for children with visual impairments to engage in activities that promote autonomy and joy.

Traditional Easter egg hunts, often structured around visual cues, do not cater well to children who cannot see, leaving them at a disadvantage during such festivities.

Hyche’s dedication to creating inclusive experiences resulted in the development of specialized "beeping" eggs that serve as auditory guides, allowing visually impaired children to locate the hidden eggs independently.

Independence is a vital component of a child’s development. For visually impaired children, learning to navigate environments and interact with objects without assistance is crucial. As

David Hyche noticed in Rachel's early years, children, even at a young age, express a strong desire for autonomy.

They thrive when allowed to explore their surroundings and engage in activities that may otherwise seem daunting without visual aids. The Rachel Project not only aligns with these needs but also elevates the festive spirit of Easter by ensuring that all children, regardless of their visual capabilities, can participate in the joyous hunt for eggs.

The collaboration between the La Marque Fire Marshal's Office, The La Marque Professional Firefighters Association, and the IABTI exemplifies the communal efforts needed to foster inclusivity and accessibility for visually impaired individuals.

Such partnerships underscore that community organizations can come together to create more inclusive event frameworks, ultimately enriching lives and establishing supportive networks for families facing similar challenges. Importantly, this event

Event Details and Expectations At the upcoming Easter Egg Hunt, children will have the unique opportunity to search for specially crafted beeping eggs designed to enhance their experience.

Adults will still be present to guide and offer assistance, but the empowerment of the children to search independently will transform a typically passive experience into an engaging adventure. The auditory cues will not only assist in locating the eggs but also promote a sense of achievement and confidence among the participants. signifies a step towards normalizing accessibility in community activities, reinforcing that all children deserve opportunities to participate fully, fostering a sense of belonging and community pride.

The introduction of The Rachel Project marks a significant milestone in promoting inclusive recreational activities for blind and visually impaired children. This innovative Easter Egg Hunt represents more than just a fun day out; it reaffirms the belief that every child deserves the chance to participate fully in celebratory events within their community. Through David Hyche's inspiration and the collaborative efforts of local organizations, we are building a barrier-free environment where all children, regardless of their abilities, can experience the joy of such cherished traditions. Such events encourage continued dialogue and action focused on accessibility, ultimately striving to create a more inclusive society for everyone.

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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

KASEY LOTT

◊ What is the favorite part about working for the City of La Marque?

My favorite part about working for the City of La Marque is having the honor of getting to know the people within the workplace and the community. I have the pleasure of working with such an eclectic group of people. Each person brings so much value and new ideas to the City of La Marque, helping it become a unique community. I have also met many wonderful residents who dedicate their time to volunteering their talents and resources. It is truly heartwarming to be a part of such a great community.

◊ People would be surprised if they knew: I am an avid sports fan, especially when it comes to football, baseball, and basketball.

DEPARTMENT: CLERK'S OFFICE TITLE: DEPUTY CLERK START DATE: JANUARY 2024

◊ How do you spend your free time?

I enjoy spending time with my family, reading psychological thrillers, and exploring nearby towns.

◊ Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself continuing to strive for growth both within my professional role and community involvement. I take pride in finding new opportunities to help better myself and my community.

Whether it’s through taking courses to improve my career, developing new connections or finding ways to make my visions become a reality. I see myself building upon new ideas and hopefully being a vessel for positive change.

◊ How do you define success?

I define success as a strong foundation that can continuously adapt to opportunities to grow to fit the needs of the time. Expectations can always change. Success in adjusting to these expectations is learning to grow from the original foundation to create new and exciting opportunities to meet the needs and wants of what is asked. The success of the Clerk’s Office is built on our capacity to handle any challenge that comes our way and to pivot when necessary, ensuring that we not only adhere to protocols but also envision and implement new policies and structures to enhance our efficiency in serving the City of La Marque.

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BUSINESS BUZZ Now Open in La Marque!

My Executive Office 15009 Delany Rd

SiD’s Grooming & More SiD's Grooming & More 10611 FM 1764, Suite D

Check Out More EDC News Here!

Make My Executive Office your home office away from home. More people are working from home now more than ever, but working from home can be distracting and client meetings at home are not always the best option. That's where My Executive Office comes in! They combine the comfort of home with a professional office atmosphere, providing the perfect space to run and grow your business.

A home grown, customer first pet grooming business. SiD’s Grooming is a proudly local pet grooming store that has been in operation in the local community for years! Their professional, skilled groomers cater to pets of all shapes and sizes, from snout to tail! SiD’s offers a variety of options for your pet such as: Pet Day Care, Full Service Grooming, Nail Trim/Dremel and Boarding.

Coming Soon!

McDonald’s I-45 & FM 1764

JLB Eatery 6402 Gulf Fwy

Valvoline Instant Oil Change I-45 & FM 1764

Waffle House 2900 FM 1764

With over 36,000 restaurants across more than 100 countries, McDonald's continues to innovate, from offering healthier options in their Happy Meals to serving fresh beef quarter pounder burgers made to order. McDonald's is dedicated to continually finding new ways to demonstrate their commitment to both their customers and the quality of their food.

At JLB Eatery, they bake fresh bread daily using only the highest-quality ingredients to create the most delicious burgers and sandwiches. They’re committed to using these premium ingredients in every dish they prepare, ensuring homemade meals every day. As they grow in the community, they’re excited to serve you—because they believe no one should leave without a full and satisfied stomach!

Valvoline Instant Oil Change offers a variety of services from certified technicians to keep your vehicle running smoothly. These services include full-service oil changes, tire rotations, batteries, and more.

You never need an appointment to stop by and have your car serviced! With quick and efficient service, Valvoline Instant Oil Change ensures you're back on the road in no time.

Waffle House La Marque is getting an upgrade! With over 2,000 locations in 25 states across the U.S., the chain has become a regional cultural icon. Known for its Southern-inspired breakfast menu, Waffle House also offers a variety of lunch and dinner options. Whether you're craving a classic waffle or a hearty meal, Waffle House in La Marque is the perfect spot for your next meal!

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1111 Bayou Road La Marque, TX 77568

CITY PHONE NUMBERS Main City Line..........409-938-9200

City Departments City Manager..............................409-938-9225 City Clerk......................................409-938-9259 City Receptionist.....................409-938-9202 Mayor & City Council..............409-938-9259 Municipal Court........................409-938-9247 Code Enforcement................409-938-9256 Development Services.........409-938-9204 Economic Development......409-938-9201 Emergency Management...409-938-9289 Human Resources...................409-938-9249 Finance..........................................409-938-9214 Library...........................................409-938-9270 Police Department.................409-938-9269 Fire Department......................409-938-9260 Public Works...............................409-938-9280 Utility Billing.................................409-938-9209

Community Contacts Animal Control..............................409-948-2485 Crime Stoppers...........................409-938-8477 County Health District.............409-938-7221 Mosquito Control.........................1-800-842-5622 Tax Office..........................................409-770-5809 TCLM Chamber.............................409-935-1408 Waste Management..................800-800-5804

Power & Gas Centerpoint Energy........800-752-8036 Gas Emergency..................713-659-2111 TX/NM Power.....................409-948-8451 TNMP Outages...................888-866-7456

School Districts Dickinson ISD........................281-229-6000 Hitchcock ISD.......................409-316-6545 Santa Fe ISD.........................409-925-3526 Texas City ISD....................409-916-0100 Emergencies..........................................911