AUGUST 2024
HURRICANE
AFTERMATH
PG. 2
CLEARING THE WAY
Public Works’ Role in Post-Hurricane Recovery
WEBSTER’S ASST.
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
PG. 3
AFTER-SCHOOL
PROGRAM
PG.5
PUBLIC WORKS’ EFFORTS IN HURRICANE BERYL’S
In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, the Public Works Department worked tirelessly to clear roadways and ensure safe passage for all residents. On the first day, they focused on moving trees and limbs off the roads, pushing them up over the curbs to facilitate travel.
RESTORING WEBSTER
Public Works’ swift and effective actions ensured the safety and well-being of our residents, and their tireless efforts in clearing roadways and managing debris have been instrumental in our community’s recovery. We are profoundly thankful for their resilience and commitment, which exemplify the spirit of service that makes Webster a strong and united community.
RESIDENT ASSISTANCE AND SWEEPER TRUCKS
Residents were asked to assist in the cleanup by placing debris between the sidewalk and the road. Additionally, while the sweeper truck was active in the days following the storm, residents helped by sweeping loose leaves from in front of their homes.
DEBRIS CLEANUP AND CONTRACT ACTIVATION
To manage this, Webster activated its debris cleanup contract with Crowder Gulf to perform the cleanup, and True North was tasked with monitoring. Cleanup began shortly after the storm and was expected to be complete within a week.
LEARNING AND IMPROVEMENT
Each critical incident provided an opportunity to learn and improve. Over the coming weeks, adjustments were made to enhance response and performance for future events. The efforts of the Public Works Department and all city employees were greatly appreciated, contributing significantly to the community’s safety and recovery.
DEDICATION OF CITY EMPLOYEES
City employees showed exceptional dedication, stepping up to perform admirably under challenging conditions, all while being concerned for their families at home. The storm’s aftermath led to widespread electrical outages and significant vegetative debris needing cleanup. The City had approximately 6,000 cubic yards of vegetative debris and 1,500 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris in residential areas.
Carrie Ditta’s passion for numbers and community service fuels her role as the City’s Assistant Director of Finance. With a career path shaped by early experiences alongside her father’s businesses and a deep-rooted connection to the City she calls home, Carrie’s story is one of growth, commitment, and personal fulfillment. As she navigates the complexities of municipal finance, her journey from a young math enthusiast to a key figure in local government finance is a testament to the impact of seizing new opportunities.
Carrie’s fascination with finance began in her childhood when she enjoyed working alongside her father in his various side businesses. Her enthusiasm for math and this formative experience led her to pursue a finance degree and start her professional career as a staff accountant.
“When I was younger, my dad ran a few side businesses throughout the years, and I liked working with him. I enjoyed handling cash, helping customers, and participating in daily operations,” says Carrie, “I have always enjoyed math. After graduating with my finance degree, I was hired as a staff accountant. I’ve worked in accounting ever since.”
Carrie has been an integral part of Webster’s financial team for over three years. Her transition to the public sector was somewhat unexpected. After nearly 14 years at the same downtown company, she sought a position closer to home and discovered a job posting for an accounting supervisor with the City. She secured the position and found that she enjoyed working in local government.
Carrie’s extensive experience across various finance department roles in smaller cities has prepared her for her current position. She has gained hands-on experience in every finance department area, worked closely with each of her supervisors, and even served as interim director for a brief period. These experiences have equipped her with the skills and knowledge necessary for her role as an assistant director, a position she finds immensely fulfilling.
As the Assistant Director of Finance, Carrie oversees payroll, disbursements, audits, and assists in the annual budget process. She also supervises and coaches the finance staff and serves as the Finance Director’s backup. Her typical day encompasses a range of tasks, from reviewing bank activity and posting entries to the general ledger to approving purchase order requests and working on the budget for the upcoming year.
“Depending on where we are in the month, I might review the payroll, work on the cash flow, or prepare the quarterly investment report. I also set up new employees in payroll and time entry,” says Carrie.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Carrie’s job is knowing that her work directly benefits the community.
“By helping to manage the City’s money, ensuring resources are used wisely, and providing transparent financial reports, I feel my work directly benefits the community, which is a very rewarding feeling,” says Carrie.
However, the role comes with its challenges. Keeping abreast of changes in accounting standards and new regulations is a continuous task.
“Thankfully, there are many training opportunities, and there is a good network of government finance employees willing to share information and offer advice,” says Carrie
BEHIND THE NUMBERS: MEET WEBSTER’S ASSISTANT
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Carrie fosters teamwork and collaboration within her department through cross-training and open communication, ensuring a cohesive working environment.
A noteworthy achievement in Carrie’s career is earning the distinction of Certified Government Finance Officer, reflecting her dedication and expertise. She also values the supportive environment among her colleagues.
“I work with some wonderful people I feel comfortable talking with if I need advice or another perspective regarding a situation I may be dealing with,” says Carrie.
Carrie’s dedication and expertise make her an invaluable asset to the City of Webster. She ensures the community’s financial health and contributes to its continued growth and prosperity.
JUNE YARD OF THE MONTH WINNERS
Our landscaping contest is back in action! Each year, the City of Webster selects the best residential homes based on their yard appearance. Winners will proudly display a “Yard of the Month” sign and have their homes featured in the Webster Way among other top yards. May the most beautiful yards win!
Judging criteria include creativity, balance, and the overall thoughtfulness of the landscaping design. Consider the arrangement of plants, the use of colors and textures, and hardscape features like paths, fences, or decorative structures. Garden art, such as fountains, sculptures, and bird feeders, is a plus. Flower beds should be tidy and well-maintained. Happy gardening!
GARDENING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
START SMALL: Start with a small garden plot or a few containers. This will make it easier to manage and learn without feeling overwhelmed.
WATER WISELY: Water your plants in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal growth. Water the roots, not the leaves, and avoid overwatering.
MULCH: Mulch retains soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. Organic mulches like straw, wood chips, or compost work well.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23 7:00 P.M.
PARKS AND RECREATION: AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM
JOIN THE WEBSTER AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM
Residents and non-residents of Webster are invited to participate in the After-School Program at the Webster Recreation Center. This free program provides an excellent opportunity for children in grades three to five to participate in educational and recreational activities. Students can use computers for homework or engage in interactive activities. The City also ensures that children receive boxed meals.
From Monday to Friday, between 3 P.M. and 6 P.M., City staff actively encourage and guide children toward success in their after-school pursuits.
Parents can register for the program on the first day of school, August 14, during the hours listed above at the Recreation Center at 311 Pennsylvania Ave. For more information, please contact the City’s Recreation Department at (281) 316-4137.
BACK TO SCHOOL BUS SAFETY TIPS
The new school year is just around the corner, and while school bus drivers do everything they can to keep children safe, motorists must also drive carefully around school buses. Please take extra caution and follow the proper procedures at bus stops and school zones to ensure the safety of students.
TIPS FOR DRIVERS
• Maintain a safe following distance, remembering that school buses make frequent stops.
• Stay alert for children around buses; they may only sometimes look for vehicles before crossing the street.
• Stop for flashing red lights or a stop sign on a school bus, regardless of your direction. Only proceed once the bus has moved, the lights have stopped flashing, or the bus driver signals it is safe to pass.
• Violations can result in a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense.
TIPS FOR STUDENTS
• Stand as far back from the curb as possible while waiting for the bus.
• Listen to the bus driver and sit still to avoid distracting the driver.
• Please wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver signals that it is safe to board. Hold onto the handrail and find a seat quickly.
SUMMER FIRE SAFETY
IMPORTANCE OF FIRE SAFETY IN TEXAS
• Texas is prone to wildfires, especially during dry seasons. Proper fire safety practices can help prevent these fires from starting and spreading, protecting both lives and property.
• Many homes in Texas use open flames for cooking, heating, and recreational purposes, such as barbecues and fire pits. Following fire safety guidelines reduces the risk of accidental fires in residential areas.
OUTDOOR BURNING: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LIGHT THE MATCH
WHEN CAN YOU BURN OUTDOORS?
Check with the City and County about burn bans and local rules for outdoor fires. Webster currently does not have a burn ban; however, statewide, Texas limits outdoor burning to:
• Campfires, bonfires, fire pits, and cooking fires.
• Household trash fires on your home property only if you don’t have trash pickup.
KEEP YOUR FIRE FROM SPREADING
If your City and County allow outdoor burns (we do!), put trash, grass, leaves, and branch trimmings in a burn barrel or container. Top it with a screen or metal grid.
• Don’t burn on dry, windy days.
• Stay by your fire until it’s out.
• Keep water, a shovel, and a rake handy if the fire spreads.
WHAT’S THE DANGER WITH CAMPFIRES?
NEARLY 90% OF WILDFIRES ARE STARTED BY HUMANS
DON’T BURN THESE ITEMS
• Aerosol cans or anything that could explode.
• Electrical insulation.
• Building/construction materials, including treated lumber.
• Plastics and asphalt-based materials.
If you see a fire, call local law enforcement. You may also call the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Environmental Complaint Hotline at 888-777-3186.
The main danger is that the fire will get out of control and spread. Fires spread depending on the wind, which can cause further damage.
The first precaution you should take is to ask if fires are allowed. Even if the campground allows fires, there might be a burn ban in the area.
The campground itself is an excellent place to start when trying to determine whether a fire is permitted. You may also find this information with the local fire service, such as the fire marshall.
PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM A WILDFIRE
CREATE FIRE-SAFE SPACE AROUND YOUR HOUSE
• Remove anything flammable within 5 feet of your house, such as leaves, firewood, or building materials. Use hard surfaces like stone, brick, gravel, or concrete as a buffer.
• Remove plants near windows, vents, or siding that could catch fire.
• Trim branches hanging over your roof. Trim lower branches on trees that could ignite from the fire on the ground.
• Keep your lawn and plants watered and remove dead branches or leaves.
MAINTAIN ROOF AND GUTTERS
Remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from your rain gutters and roof regularly. Windblown embers that travel ahead of a wildfire can easily ignite them.
CITY COUNCIL RECAP
• City Council adopted an Ordinance amending Chapter 18, Article IX, to remove location restrictions for swimming pool equipment. The ordinance allows the equipment to be placed where air conditioning equipment and generators are already permitted.
• City Council adopted an Ordinance amending the 2023 National Electrical Code to the City Ordinances due to a state law requiring electricians licensed in Texas to follow the code.
• City Council held a Public Hearing regarding a Special Use Permit application for a massage establishment located at 1020 W NASA Parkway Suite 234, Webster, TX 77598.
• City Council approved a Resolution complying with Texas Tax Code Sections 26.04(c) and 26.17(c), which require an officer or employee designated by the governing body to calculate the no-new-revenue and voter-approval tax rate for the taxing unit.
• City Council approved a Webster Economic Development Corporation expenditure for the construction of a public parking lot in Flyway.
• City Council approved the first reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 62 of the Code of Ordinances, prohibiting overnight parking at City of Webster parks.
• City Council discussed the annual Fourth of July Celebration Security Plan and authorized the closure of Blossom Street from its western limit to Texas Avenue Park upon the delivery of fireworks to Texas Avenue Park.
• City Council approved the first reading of an Ordinance updating Section 22-228 of Chapter 22, Article III, Itinerant Vendors, of the Code of Ordinances to ensure proper legal protections for nonprofit entities that support or oppose a particular philosophy, idea, issue, etc.
• City Council approved to authorize a 5-year agreement with Stryker Medical for medical equipment, such as cardiac monitors, stretches, stair chairs, etc., for the EMS department.
AUGUST SEPTEMBER
WEBSTER CITY COUNCIL
