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CITY HAPPENINGS UPCOMING MEETINGS

INFORMATION SESSION

ZONING, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, & PROPERTY RIGHTS The City of La Porte is hosting another community education event on our development process. This event will be focused on property zoning, economic development, and property rights, and will be led by our City Planner and Assistant City Manager. This presentation will cover what property zoning is and how economic development works, and what both mean for property owners.

Meeting agendas and minutes for all boards, committees, and City Council can be found at LaPorteTX.gov/Agendas

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

City Council Meeting

Local Emergency Planning Committee Meeting

Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting

Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting

City Council Meeting

Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting

CITY

HOLIDAYS

City offices will be closed Friday, April 7, in observance of Good Friday, and Monday, May 29, in observance of Memorial Day. Garbage pick-up scheduled for these days will resume on your next scheduled day.

TUESDAY, MAY 16 5:00 PM-7:00 PM

CITY HALL REGISTER TO ATTEND AT ZONINGEDPR.EVENTBRITE. COM OR TO ACCESS THE ZOOM LINK!

FREE TO ATTEND!

COMMUNITY COOPERATION GRANTS The City Manager’s Office is now accepting applications in a cooperative program to assist with the construction of neighborhood improvements. Applications are available LaPorteTX.gov/CommunityGrants

MUNICIPAL SEPARATE STORM SEWER SYSTEM The City of La Porte maintains a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System to transport stormwater. The City has also created a Storm Water Management Program to manage the quality of discharge from the system. This program includes management best practices and schedules for implementation to address six minimum control measures. For more information, visit LaPorteTX.gov/StormWater.

efighters Day International Fir

CITY OF LA PORTE ACHIEVES CRS CLASS 5 RATING As a result of the City’s 5-Year Cycle CRS Verification Visit, the City of La Porte will improve from a Class 7 to a Class 5. The Class 5 rating is effective April 1, 2023, and translates into a 25% discount on flood insurance policies. There are currently 4,000 existing policies in the City, and eligible property owners will begin to see this discount on policy renewals and new policies after April 1, 2023.

May 4 is International Firefighters Day! Firefighters dedicate their lives to the protection of life and property. Sometimes that dedication is in the form of countless hours volunteered over many years, in others it is many selfless years working in the industry. In all cases, it risks the ultimate sacrifice of a firefighter’s life. Thank you to the La Porte Fire Department for your commitment and bravery while keeping our community safe.

A lot of hard work goes on behind the scenes in our Public Works Department to keep our City moving safely and efficiently. We want to thank all of our Public Works employees for their time and effort to keep our City operating smoothly.

Every year, flooding causes hundreds of millions of dollars worth of damage to homes and businesses around the country and standard homeowners and commercial property insurance policies do not cover flood losses. To meet the need for this vital coverage, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP offers reasonably priced flood insurance to all properties in communities that comply with minimum standards for floodplain management. The NFIP’s Community Rating System (CRS) credits community efforts beyond those minimum standards by reducing flood insurance premiums for the community’s property owners. The CRS is similar to—but separate from— the private insurance industry’s programs that grade communities on the effectiveness of their fire suppression and building code enforcement efforts. CRS discounts on flood insurance premiums range from 5% up to 45%, based on CRS credit points that are awarded to communities. Each CRS Class improvement produces a 5% greater discount on flood insurance premiums. The City of La Porte is both an NFIP and CRS participating community. If you are unsure about whether your property is eligible for the CRS discount, contact your insurance agent for additional information. Source: National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System; A Local Official’s Guide to Saving Lives, Preventing Property Damage, and Reducing the Cost of Flood Insurance; FEMA B 573/2018

MONDAY APRIL 24 TUESDAY APRIL 25 WEDNESDAY APRIL 26 THURSDAY APRIL 27 FRIDAY APRIL 28 SATURDAY APRIL 29 SUNDAY APRIL 30 MONDAY MAY 1 TUESDAY MAY 2

8 AM-5 PM 7 AM-7 PM 7 AM-7 PM 7 AM-7 PM 7 AM-7 PM 8 AM-5 PM 12 PM-5 PM 7 AM-7 PM 7 AM-7 PM

MAIN LOCATION LA PORTE CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER 604 WEST FAIRMONT PARKWAY LA PORTE, TX 77571 BRANCH LOCATION LA PORTE ISD ITC BUILDING 9832 SPENCER HIGHWAY LA PORTE, TX 77571

Election Day Polling Locations On Election Day, May 6, voters must vote in the precinct where registered to vote.

PRECINCT NUMBERS 1,2,3 & 6 LPISD ITC Building, 9832 Spencer Highway, Room 120/Conf. Room PRECINCT NUMBERS 4 & 5 City of La Porte City Hall Council Chamber, 604 West Fairmont Parkway

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS HURRICANE SEASON: JUNE 1 - NOVEMBER 30

Hurricane season begins June 1st and lasts until November 30th. Get prepared by creating a family disaster plan and emergency supply kit. In addition, make an inventory of all the major items in your home. Are you ready for hurricane season? With the unpredictable nature of these powerful storms, it's crucial to be prepared. Whether you're a coastal resident or 30 miles inland, taking the necessary steps will make all the difference. Don't wait until it's too late – start preparing now and protect yourself and your loved ones from the devastating effects of a hurricane. Make a plan, build a kit, and stay informed! June 1st marks the start of the 2023 hurricane season, and the City of La Porte reminds residents about the importance of hurricane preparedness as the season approaches. Our office recommends taking the time now before the busy storm season begins to gather batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, and enough food and water for each person in your family to last at least three days.

Remember to keep your gas tanks full during hurricane season, in case you have to evacuate with little notice. Identify ahead of time where you could go if told to evacuate: a family member’s home in another town, a hotel, or a shelter. Keep telephone numbers and maps to each location on hand. If you will need help getting out of town before a storm, dial 21-1 to register for evacuation assistance.

Hurricanes are extremely powerful storms that can cause catastrophic damage and loss of life. Strong winds, storm surge, flooding, and tornadoes are all hazards associated with hurricanes and tropical storms. When a hurricane is approaching, you may have little time to prepare.

ALERT LP

MAKE A PLAN

BUILD A KIT

BE INFORMED

WWW.LPOEM.ORG | 281-470-0010 | OEM@LAPORTETX.GOV

A hurricane can mean flooding and it is important you and your property are prepared before the next flood.

Here are some tips from the Planning and Development Department. Purchase a flood insurance policy and maintain coverage on your structure. Don’t delay – there is a 30-day waiting period before a policy takes effect. Basic homeowner’s insurance does not cover damage from floods. Keep trash out of ditches and avoid dumping pollutants in the sewers. Stream dumping is a violation of the Chapter 62 ordinance that prohibits dumping into the storm drainage system. Report debris and stream dumping to the Public Works Department by calling 281-471-2141 or emailing PublicWorks@LaporteTX.gov. Flood Insurance Rate Map flood zone determinations, mandatory flood insurance purchase requirements, and sitespecific data such as floodway areas are all available online! Visit FEMA’s website at FEMA.gov/Flood-Insurance or the City’s website at LaPorteTX.gov/FloodPlain to obtain this information as well as historical flood information and areas of natural floodplain functions. Remember, any development in the floodplain without a permit is illegal. Protect your home’s foundation from flooding by making sure your downspouts drain away from your house. For advice on how to correct drainage issues, information on grant opportunities in order to elevate your home, and other flood protection assistance including sources for financial assistance, visit FEMA’s website at FEMA.gov/Flood-Insurance or the City’s website at LaPorteTX.gov/FloodPlain.

Don't wait for an emergency to strike! Stay ahead by signing up for AlertLP.

GRILLING SAFETY While summer barbecues bring family and friends together, they also cause a surprising number of accidents and injuries each year. 10,200 home fires are started by grills each year, on average.

This emergency notification system sends critical information straight to your phone or email. You'll receive real-time alerts about chemical events, floods, severe weather, and other hazards in or around La Porte. Registration is quick, easy, and free. Join now and be prepared for any emergency that may come your way!

July is the peak month, followed by May, June, and August.

ALERT LP EMERGENCY ALERTS

16,600 patients went to the ER per year because of injuries involving grills. 8,200 of these injuries were thermal burns. 70 percent of U.S. households own at least one outdoor BBQ, grill, or smoker. Gas grills contribute to a higher number of fires than charcoal grills. 64 percent of households own a gas grill.

F OLLOWING THESE SIMPLE TIPS

1 2

WILL HELP YOU BE ON THE WAY TO SAFE GRILLING

Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors. The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area. Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. Never leave your grill unattended. Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WORKSHOP

If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or other flammable liquids to a fire that has been started. Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources. When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container. Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off both the gas tank and the grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill. If the flame goes out, turn the grill and gas off and wait at least 5 minutes before re-lighting it.

If you have questions about Fire Safety or need a FREE Smoke Detector, please contact the La Porte Fire Marshal’s office at 281-867-4603 or visit us at LaPorteTX.gov/FireMarshal.

JUNE 1 - NOVEMBER 30

EMPLOYEE

Lorenzo Wingate, Assistant Director of Public Works, was recognized as Manager of the Year for 2022. James Janoch, Network Administrator for IT, was recognized as both Employee of the 4th Quarter and Employee of the Year for 2022. We want to thank both Lorenzo and James for all they do for the La Porte team and community.

F ILL T HE TRU C K La Porte EMS is hosting a kid-friendly food drive benefitting Bridge Over Troubled Waters and Bread of Life Food Pantry. An ambulance will be parked at Kroger (1300 W. Fairmont) on June 9th from 3 PM-7 PM and June 25 from 9 AM- 1 PM to allow patrons to make donations. All other donations can be dropped off at La Porte EMS Headquarters (10428 Spencer Highway) from June 3rd-July 3rd. Please call 281-471-9244 with any questions.

Car Seat Safety Inspections

Free car seat checks are provided by a certified technician. Car seat checks are available by appointment only on the following dates at EMS Headquarters, 10428 Spencer Highway: 4/06, 4/20, 5/04, 5/18, 6/01, 6/15, 6/29. Call 281-471-9244 for an appointment.

CPR Training

The City of La Porte EMS is offering the following CPR courses at EMS headquarters: 5/20 – Healthcare Provider $32 6/17 – Heartsaver $28 Cash payment is due on the day of the class. Classes are held 8:30 AM- 12:00 PM.

Safe Riders

Free child safety seats are provided to families who qualify. Please contact Lt. Mason at 281-470-0073 or MasonC@LaPorteTX.gov for an appointment.

Childhood Immunizations

Drive through immunization clinics are currently held from 9 AM-12 PM on the 2nd Saturday of each month at the City of La Porte EMS Headquarters. Vaccines are available for children 18 years of age and younger; no fee and no appointment required.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Main Street Trade Days takes place the first Saturday of every month from 10am – 2pm in downtown La Porte.

PARKS

AND

SUMMER

RECREATION

DAY CAMP Open to K – 6th Grade and packed with weekly themes, fun games, arts & crafts, science experiments, field trips, swimming, sports, movies, and more! Camp will be held at the La Porte Special Programs Center, 1302 S. Broadway, for 11 weeks from May 30 – Aug 11. Regular camp hours are 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Registration opens April 1 at 8:00 AM for La Porte residents and April 6 at 8:00 AM for non-residents. $60 per week, per camper.

TAAF YOUTH

TRACK & FIELD

Open to Ages 5 – 18. Experienced coaching and track jerseys are provided! Most track meets are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings throughout the local area. Morning practices are held Monday thru Thursday from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the La Porte High School track. The season runs from May 30 to July 30. Registration open April 1 – June 5, for $45 per participant.

and/or private swim S U M M E R Group lessons for ages 6 months to

SWIM

adult. Morning and evening sessions offered beginning June 5. All lessons taught by American Red Cross certified instructors. Registration opens April 1. $30/session group lessons and L E S S O N S for $60/session for private lessons. Each session consists of four 45-minute classes. Most lessons held at the Fairmont Pool or the Northwest Pool. For the group lessons schedule, visit LaPorteTX.gov/Aquatics.

KID'S

NIGHT OUT

Kid's Night Out is held the 2nd Friday of the month (Apr 14, May 12). Open to K – 6th Grade. Filled with fun themes, games, crafts, pizza, movies and more! Dinner is served at 6:30pm. Held at the La Porte Special Programs Center, 1302 S. Broadway, from 5:00pm – 10:00pm. Only $15 per child.

Registration for all Parks & Recreation programming is available online at LaPorteTX.gov/Register or by visiting the La Porte Recreation & Fitness Center, located at 1322 S. Broadway. Did you know? The La Porte Parks & Recreation Department publishes a program guide 3 times a year full of information on recreation, fitness, special programs, events, and more! Pick one up in person at the Recreation & Fitness Center or view the online version at LaPorteTX.gov/FunTimes.

CITY OF LA PORTE 604 W FAIRMONT PKWY LA PORTE, TX 77571 281-471-5020

WWW.LAPORTETX.GOV

JACINTO POOL NEIGHBORHOOD POOLS $1 SAN 504 East G Street

Open May 27 through August 13

Monday - Sunday 12:00PM - 7:00PM

NORTHWEST POOL 10210 North P Street

FAIRMONT POOL

FREE 10216 Hillridge Road

LITTLE CEDAR BAYOU WAVE POOL Open May 27 Starting Aug 14, open weekends only until Sep 04

Monday - Thursday 11:00AM - 7:00PM Friday - Sunday 11:00AM - 6:00PM

$3 Residents $5 Non-Residents $1 Senior Citizens FREE Under 2 years