Webster Way | December 2023

DECEMBER

2023

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM WEBSTER The Webster Police K9 Division Wishes You a Happy Holiday Season!

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHTS PG. 2

HOLIDAY SHOPPING SAFETY TIPS PG. 3

STAY IN THE KNOW PG. 5

CERTIFIED EXCELLENCE: EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT EDITION In this newsletter edition, we are thrilled to spotlight exceptional City employees who have recently achieved new certifications in their respective positions. These dedicated team members have demonstrated a commitment to personal and professional growth and elevated the standards of excellence within our City. Each achievement represents their individual success and contributes to our teams collective strength and expertise. Join us in celebrating their accomplishments!

CITY SECRETARY MICHAEL MUSCARELLO Webster City Secretary Michael Muscarello was elected trustee of the Texas Municipal Clerks Association, Inc. (TMCA).

As trustee, Michael will be responsible for accomplishing the goals and objectives of TMCA. Its primary missions are to inspire Texas city clerks and city secretaries to excel in their roles within governance and to offer educational programs for city clerks and city secretaries.

Michael has also been awarded the Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC).

The CMC designation is granted to Municipal Clerks who successfully meet rigorous education requirements and demonstrate a notable history of contributions to their local government, community, and state.

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF FINANCE CARRIE DITTA Assistant Director of Finance Carrie Ditta has recently achieved a significant milestone in her career by becoming a Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO).

The CGFO program is a rigorous certification that encourages enhancing knowledge and professionalism in government finance. It actively promotes the development and maintenance of professional competence for practicing governmental finance officers.

Carrie’s commitment to mastering the intricacies of government finance reflects her dedication and underscores our organization’s commitment to providing the highest standards of financial stewardship. Her achievement in obtaining the CGFO designation showcases her expertise and positions her as a valuable asset to our finance team.

DEPUTY CITY SECRETARY MARIA RODRIGUEZ Deputy City Secretary Maria Rodriguez has been awarded the Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC).

The CMC designation is granted exclusively to Municipal Clerks who successfully navigate rigorous education requirements and demonstrate a notable history of contributions to their local government, community, and state.

Acknowledging the significance of lifelong learning extends beyond mere recognition; it is a crucial practice for everyone in local government. Maria’s commitment to staying well-informed and adapting to the ever-changing needs of the citizens we serve is truly noteworthy.

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Webster Way | December

A MESSAGE FROM THE WEBSTER POLICE DEPARTMENT: SAFETY TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON As the holiday season approaches, the Webster Police Department remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. Together, we want to share some essential safety tips to enhance your security during the festive shopping season.

While the holidays bring joy and excitement, they also see increased store activity. By staying vigilant and following these practical safety tips, you can help create a safer shopping experience for yourself and your loved ones. Whether navigating bustling malls or enjoying local shops, these tips aim to create a secure and enjoyable shopping experience for yourself and your loved ones.

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SHOP DURING DAYLIGHT HOURS

Whenever possible, shop during daylight hours to ensure better visibility and reduce the risk of incidents.

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PARK IN WELL-LIT AREAS

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Choose well-lit parking spaces and avoid parking in isolated or poorly lit areas to enhance your safety.

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Place shopping bags, gifts, and other valuables in the trunk of your car to prevent them from being visible to potential thieves.

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Pay attention to your surroundings, and be aware of people and activities nearby. Avoid distractions like excessive use of smartphones.

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If possible, shop with a friend or family member.

There’s safety in numbers, and having someone with you can deter potential criminals.

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Keep your purse, wallet, and other belongings close to your body, and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

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KEEP YOUR VALUABLES OUT OF SIGHT

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STAY AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS

BUDDY UP

SECURE YOUR BELONGINGS

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USE CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS INSTEAD OF CASH

Opt for electronic payment methods to minimize the amount of cash you carry. This can reduce the risk of loss in case of theft.

KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR CHILDREN

If shopping with children, keep a close eye on them.

Establish a meeting point in case you get separated.

CHECK YOUR SURROUNDINGS BEFORE ENTERING YOUR VEHICLE

Before getting into your car, scan the area around it to ensure there are no suspicious individuals. Lock your doors immediately upon entering.

PLAN YOUR ROUTE

Inform someone about your shopping plans and estimated return time. This way, someone will be aware if you don’t return when expected.

Trust your instincts! Remove yourself from a situation if something feels off or uncomfortable. If you notice suspicious behavior, don't hesitate—call the Webster Police Department at 281.332.2426.

Webster Way | December 3

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Santa In The Webster Fire Truck Santa Claus is coming to Webster! We’re excited to announce that the Webster Fire Department is bringing Santa to your neighborhoods on Saturday, December 16, starting at 11:00 A.M. Stay tuned for the specific routes, which will be shared on the City’s official Facebook page as the event draws near.

Santa will kick off the journey through Webdale at 11:00 A.M. before spreading holiday cheer through Green Acres, concluding with a grand finale in Edgewater.

Upcoming Events

Get ready for a delightful visit from Santa and the Fire Department as they make their way through our wonderful community. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming holiday tradition!

Webster’s Annual Christmas In The Park Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit as the most wonderful time of the year has finally arrived! Join us in celebrating the festive season at our beloved City’s annual Christmas in the Park.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 9, and prepare to immerse yourself in the joy of the holidays. Come bundled up and delight in delicious treats from local vendors, all while enjoying the melodious tunes of the Space City Big Band as they serenade you with your favorite holiday classics.

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Webster Way | December

But the excitement doesn’t end there! After the concert, make sure to attend our special outdoor screening of the Christmas classic ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ on the Texas Avenue Park lawn at 7 P.M. Santa Claus himself will also be making a special appearance, ready to spread cheer and capture those precious moments with children in free pictures.

We can’t wait to share this magical day with you and your loved ones!

Stay In the Know

CHRISTMAS OFFICE HOURS Webster City Offices are closed on Monday, December 25, and Tuesday, December 26, in observance of the Christmas Holiday. Our offices will reopen on Wednesday, December 27.

Republic Services will resume operations on Thursday, December 28.

CHRISTMAS YARD DECORATING CONTEST REGISTRATION It’s that time of year again when the City hosts its annual Christmas Yard Decorating Contest! Our judges will be on the lookout for winners on the evening of Tuesday, December 12, assessing both the East and West sides of Hwy 3. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, third place, and honorable mention.

Winning yards will be rewarded with a “Yard of the Month” sign proudly displayed in their front yard, along with a feature of their beautifully adorned home in the Webster Way Newsletter and on the City’s Facebook page.

Yard decorations will be evaluated based on their use of color, creativity, aesthetic appeal, and overall decorations. If you’d like to register your home for this festive contest, contact us via email at hcherry@cityofwebster.com or call us at 281.316.4108.

2022 First Place East Side

Senior Holiday Luncheon 2023 We are excited to bring some holiday cheer to our beloved seniors in the community this December!

Join us for a heartwarming and festive Senior Holiday Luncheon at the Webster Recreation Center on December 13.

This special event is a wonderful opportunity for our seniors to come together, enjoy a delicious meal, and celebrate the holiday season in great company.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• DELICIOUS HOLIDAY FEAST: We have a mouthwatering

holiday menu featuring all your favorite seasonal dishes.

• SOCIALIZING AND FUN: Reconnect with old friends and make new ones as you share stories and laughter.

We encourage all our senior residents to attend and make this event even more special with your presence. If you require transportation or have any special dietary requirements, please let us know in advance, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

For more information, please contact Recreation Webster Way Manager Bryan Morgan at | November 281.316.4137 5 or bmorgan@cityofwebster.com.

STRENGTH IN UNITY ‘FOR THEM’ TEXAS FIRE CONFERENCE This October, several members of the Webster Fire Department participated in the inaugural “For Them Texas Fire Conference.” Guided by the “For Them” mentality, the event emphasized the prioritization of citizens in every facet of their responsibilities, spanning from rigorous training and physical fitness routines to the meticulous organization of gear on the trucks.

Acknowledging that they can be the community’s last hope at any given moment, the Webster Fire Department consistently strives for self-improvement to ensure they are prepared and exceptionally ready for any situation.

The conference encompassed extensive training sessions on fundamental firefighting techniques, including hose deployment, victim search and movement, advanced hose handling, ladder setup, and forcible entry. These skills go beyond being mere tools in their firefighting toolkit; they symbolize an unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of the Webster community.

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CITY COUNCIL RECAP

CITY CONTACTS City Hall Main Number 281.332.1826

October Recap

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City Manager 281.316.3756

City Council designated Wells Fargo Bank as the City’s primary depository bank for services commencing January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2026.

City Council adopted an Ordinance outlining the terms and appointment procedures for the City’s Municipal Court judges.

City Council approved Amendment #1 to the Advanced Funding Agreement with the State of Texas to provide additional federal funds for the NASA Road 1 Bypass extension project.

City Council approved an extension of Fairway Drive from Rice Creek Lane to IH45 Frontage Road to add connectivity to the region’s new development.

City Council approved an Interlocal Agreement with Harris County to participate in a water-based epidemiology program developed by Harris County Public Health.

City Council approved to replace HVAC control systems at City Hall, the Police Department, the Fire Department, and the Animal Shelter.

City Council approved a purchase order to National Works, Inc. for wet well rehabilitation at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, Lift Station 3, and Lift Station 4.

City Council approved a purchase order to LJA Environmental to perform the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions Service Line Inventory.

City Council approved a purchase order to Facility Solutions Group to replace the baseball and softball field light fixtures at Texas Avenue Park.

City Secretary 281.316.4144 Community Development 281.316.4129 Economic Development 281.316.4116 Finance 281.316.4102 Municipal Court 281.316.6702 Recreation 281.316.4137 Public Works 281.316.3700 Fire (Non-emergency) 281.332.2711 Police (Non-emergency) 281.332.2426

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS ARE HELD ON THE FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE NEXT CITY COUNCIL MEETING, VISIT OUR WEBSITE BY SCANNING THE QR CODE!

SOCIAL MEDIA

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City of Webster, Texas

@WebsterTexas

@WebsterTexas_

Webster Way | December 7

THE CITY OF WEBSTER

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 119

101 Pennsylvania Ave. Webster, TX 77598

www.cityofwebster.com 281.332.1826

Webster, TX

DECEMBER

JANUARY

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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SENIOR GAME NIGHT 6 P.M. at 311 Pennsylvania Ave

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CHRISTMAS AT THE PARK From 5-9 P.M., Texas Avenue Park 17100 Texas Ave. WEBSTER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MEETING* 6 P.M. at City Hall CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall CHRISTMAS CLOSURE City Offices are closed on Monday, December 25, and Tuesday, December 26.

Republic Services will run as normally scheduled.

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NEW YEAR’S CLOSURE Happy New Year!

City offices are closed until Tuesday, January 2.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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WEBSTER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MEETING* 6 P.M. at City Hall

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MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY City Offices are closed until Tuesday, January 16.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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*Special meetings may be added, and meetings may be canceled if there are no agenda items.

Check the City website at cityofwebster.com for meeting information.

WEBSTER CITY COUNCIL

Jennifer Heidt

Council Position 1 jheidt@cityofwebster.com

Bill Jones

Council Position 2 bjones@cityofwebster.com

Chris Vaughan

Council Position 3 cvaughan@cityofwebster.com

Donna Rogers

Mayor mayorrogers@cityofwebster.com

Beverly Gaines

Mayor Pro Tem bgaines@cityofwebster.com

Edward Lapeyre

Council Position 5 elapeyre@cityofwebster.com

Martin Graves

Council Position 6 mgraves@cityofwebster.com