Webster Way | January 2024

JANUARY 2024

WE ARE WEBSTER A Look Inside the Webster Professional Firefighters Association, PG. 4-5

CHRISTMAS YARD WINNERS PG. 2

2023 SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEON PG. 3

PUBLIC WORKS FACTS PG. 6

FIRST PLACE

EAST 1ST

WEST 1ST

EAST 2ND

WEST 2ND

EAST 3RD

WEST 3RD

EAST HM

WEST HM

EAST: 609 W Fork WEST: 214 Linda Lane

SECOND PLACE EAST: 19418 Old Galveston Rd

WEST: 607 Travis St Unit #5

THIRD PLACE EAST: 18602 Anne Dr WEST: 219 Linda Lane

HONORABLE MENTION EAST: 18609 Anne Dr WEST: 403 Travis St

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Webster Way | December

CELEBRATING THE SENIOR SPIRIT IN WEBSTER: 2023 SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEON The Webster Recreation Center hosted a memorable Senior Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, December 13, in a delightful celebration that resonated with warmth and festive cheer. The event, dedicated to honoring and bringing joy to the senior residents of our beloved community, was a success.

As attendees stepped into the festively adorned venue, they were greeted by an atmosphere filled with the season’s spirit. The air buzzed with excitement as seniors from all corners of Webster gathered to share the joy of the holidays.

The highlight of the occasion was undoubtedly the delicious holiday feast that awaited the guests. From roasted turkey and savory stuffing to decadent desserts, every dish was a culinary masterpiece that added a touch of indulgence to the festivities.

The event was more than just a delight; it allowed socializing and fun! Old friendships were rekindled, and new connections were formed as seniors shared stories and laughter, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and togetherness.

The heart of the event was the gathering of our senior residents, whose presence added an extra layer of warmth and significance to the festivities. Their smiles and laughter filled the room, creating shared joy and community spirit.

The Recreation Department encouraged all senior residents to attend, and the response was overwhelming. The sense of community was palpable as friends, neighbors, and acquaintances came together to make the event memorable.

Door prizes were raffled at the end of the luncheon. Lucky winners went home with gift cards to restaurants in Webster, generously donated to enhance the postevent celebrations.

Two crocheted blankets, crafted with love and skill by one of the senior residents in attendance, were also raffled off—the handmade blankets served as heartwarming tokens of the creativity and talent within our senior community.

The Senior Holiday Luncheon proved to be a heartwarming success, leaving an indelible mark on the holiday season for all who attended. As the laughter and stories echoed through the Recreation Center, it became clear that this event was not just a luncheon but a celebration of community, friendship, and the enduring spirit of the holiday season in Webster.

Webster Way | December 3

WEBSTER PROFESSIONAL FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

Making a Difference Beyond Emergencies

The Webster Professional Firefighters Association (WPFA) stands as a beacon of community service, embodying a mission to enhance the lives of citizens not just within City limits but also in neighboring communities. Established at the end of last year, this association of dedicated Webster firefighters has rapidly become a force for positive change and support.

The WPFA’s mission is simple but profound: to improve the lives of Webster’s residents and those in surrounding areas. While the association serves the City of Webster, its reach extends to League City, Forest Bend, Seabrook, and Nassau Bay, allowing for a broader impact and a testament to their commitment to aiding communities in need.

Since its inception, the WPFA has been actively involved in various initiatives to support the community. From fundraising events to donations for City and Fire Department employees during hardship or celebration, the association has become a pillar of support for its members and the community.

The association recently focused on collecting donations for families affected by an apartment fire. As the holiday season approached, the WPFA aimed to provide these families with toys, clothing, and household items, offering a glimmer of hope during a challenging time.

The WPFA’s fundraising efforts are diverse and impactful. The association consistently raises funds to support its mission, from designing Men’s Health Awareness Month shirts to participating in events like the Texas Brotherhood Ride and the Galveston Firefighters Association annual golf tournament.

As a non-profit organization, the association channels received funds back into the community. Fundraising activities vary annually based on emerging needs. In the past year, the organization directed contributions towards assisting City employees facing financial hardships, supporting Fire Department personnel celebrating the arrival of new children, and contributing to the Texas Line of Duty Death (LODD) Task Force Fund in the wake of an unforeseen passing of a mutual aid Fire 4 Chief. The Texas LODD Task Force is dedicated to honoring fallen and injured

first responders, offering response, resources, and remembrance programs for first responder agencies and their families.

Collaboration is at the heart of the WPFA’s approach. They actively engage with other organizations that share their mission.

The WPFA plans to continue growing alongside the City, with ideas for upcoming fundraisers and the aspiration to establish an annual tournament-style fundraiser. For our firefighters, being a part of the WPFA is not just about responding to emergencies but about positively impacting the community daily.

“As firefighters, we generally see people on their bad days, but as a member of the association, we can make a positive impact on someone’s day at any given moment,” says Firefighter Jacob Galvan, “Getting to be a servant of the community that I live in gives me a lot of personal gratitude.”

For residents and businesses eager to join the cause, following the WPFA on social media is a great way to stay connected and informed about ongoing initiatives.

In the spirit of community, the Webster Professional Firefighters Association continues to blaze a trail of service, demonstrating that their commitment to Webster goes beyond fighting fires—it’s about fostering a thriving and supportive community for all.

BUILDING BRIDGES OF GENEROSITY

WPFA’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE INTERFAITH CARING MINISTRIES CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE

At the heart of the holiday season, the Webster Professional Firefighters Association demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the community through active participation in the Interfaith Caring Ministries Christmas Toy Drive. This annual event, hosted at the Webster Presbyterian Church, is a testament to the power of collective goodwill and community support.

The WPFA played a pivotal role by contributing financial support and going the extra mile to ensure the success of the toy drive. The association’s financial contributions significantly amplified the event’s reach, enabling the purchase of a more significant number of toys to bring joy to those in need during the festive season.

On the day of the toy drive, members of the WPFA volunteered their time and effort by actively assisting shoppers. From bagging items to efficiently loading them into cars, their presence added a personal touch to the event, fostering community and camaraderie.

The Interfaith Caring Ministries (ICM), the organizing entity behind the toy drive, operates as a non-profit agency that assists individuals and families in need within the Texas Bay Area, specifically in Clear Creek and Friendswood ISDs. Their mission, rooted in faith and community building, aligns seamlessly with the values upheld by the WPFA. The dedication of the WPFA extended beyond the event day. Days prior, WPFA members and their families volunteered their time to move the donated toys

from the ICM warehouse to the Webster Presbyterian Church.

The ICM Christmas Toy Drive, with the significant support and active involvement of the WPFA, becomes not just an event but a symbol of community strength and compassion. The combined efforts of these entities contribute to uplifting the holiday spirits of those in need, embodying the true essence of the season. As the Webster community continues to come together, initiatives like these illuminate the profound impact of collective goodwill on creating a stronger and more interconnected community.

PUBLIC UNMASKING HIDDEN THREATS: THE IMPACT OF FLUSHABLE WORKS WIPES ON WEBSTER’S PLUMBING AND WASTEWATER SYSTEM FACTS THE DECEPTIVE ALLURE OF FLUSHABLE WIPES Flushable wipes have become an everyday convenience on which we have come to rely. Some believe that they provide a better clean after using the restroom. Nearly all sanitary wipes have the word ‘flushable’ on the label, indicating that they can safely be flushed down the toilet, breaking down promptly to be processed without causing any problems.

THE UNSEEN CONSEQUENCES OF FLUSHING WIPES Although most of us would assume that wet wipes disintegrate once we wash them down the bathroom, the reality is that they rarely do.They can wreak havoc on a home’s plumbing system, causing sewer backups, septic system problems, and even burst pipes. Along the way from your house to the treatment plant, wet wipes can combine with fat, grease, and dirt trapped in the pipes, creating an iceberg-like formation. Putting your home’s plumbing at risk of severe clogs can result in a hefty plumbing bill. More importantly, these wipes can cause backups and overflows at wastewater treatment facilities, thus creating a public health risk.

THE SURGE OF WIPES DURING COVID-19 Since the new standards of sanitary cleaning procedures were put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen more wipes coming through our sewer system in Webster. Wipes are different from toilet tissue—they are made of paper pulp held together with non-degradable materials like polyester and polymers.

THE CHALLENGE OF BREAKDOWN Toilet tissue breaks down quickly with water. Most companies say their wipes can partially break down in one hour of being in a sewer system.

In our system, coming from any of our citywide lift stations, the wipes can make it to the wastewater treatment plant within 30 minutes. The flushed wipes will often be fully intact when they reach the treatment plant. Wastewater operators spend numerous hours pulling rags from pumps, valves, and the bar screen. If the clog gets terrible enough, it can burn up pumps, motors, and belts, thus resulting in expensive repairs.

A SIMPLE SOLUTION: DISPOSE, DON’T FLUSH The best way to dispose of ‘flushable’ wipes is to throw them in the garbage. So as not to put your plumbing at risk, it is best to avoid flushing wet wipes altogether. Being proactive by throwing ‘flushable’ wipes in the garbage is the key to protecting our homes, businesses, wastewater treatment plants, and community.

Webster Way | November 6 6 Webster Way | December

CITY COUNCIL RECAP

CITY CONTACTS City Hall Main Number 281.332.1826

November Recap

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City Council adopted an Ordinance reappointing the City’s Municipal Court judges, Presiding Judge James Woltz, Associate Judge David Salinsky, Associate Judge James Tittle, and Associate Judge Ethan Baker, for two-year terms beginning November 15, 2023.

City Council approved a Resolution authorizing membership in a coalition of similarly situated cities served by CenterPoint that have joined together to efficiently and cost-effectively review and respond to gas issues affecting rates charged in CenterPoint’s service area.

City Council approved the Investment Report for the September 30, 2023 quarter, showing the distribution of assets as 11.07% in cash, 87.10% in investment pools, and 1.82% in agency notes.

City Council authorized a purchase order to Southern Computer Warehouse to replace computer equipment in various departments.

City Council approved a purchase order to Sigma Surveillance DBA STS 360 for a one-year comprehensive maintenance warranty on the video, access control, fire alarm, and intrusion alarm systems.

City Council approved an updated five-year contract with Flock Safety for license plate reader cameras. This revised agreement consolidates all current contracts, leading to a cost savings of $500 per year per camera.

City Council authorized the Police Department to purchase advanced rifle-resistant body armor from Angel Armor.

City Council authorized a purchase order to IDS Engineering Group for design services at Lift Station 14, located at Rice Creek Lane and Fairway Drive.

City Council authorized a purchase order to Freese and Nichols to provide design services for rehabilitation of Clarifier 1 at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

City Council authorized a purchase order to Silsbee Ford for a 2024 F350 equipped with a crane service body and a 2024 F550 flatbed with a gooseneck hitch to enhance efficiency and safety in the operations of the Public Works Department.

City Council authorized a purchase order to Caldwell Country Chevrolet to acquire a Chevrolet 5500 equipped with Versalift, intended to meet the operational requirements of the Public Works Department.

City Council authorized a purchase order to Construction Master of Houston, INC. to install a new pre-engineered metal carport and storage building to protect high-water vehicles from the elements.

AARP TAX AIDE

FEBRUARY 3 - APRIL 5, 2024 Visit the Recreation Center, 311 Pennsylvania Ave., to make an appointment. Please do not call for an appointment as we are unable to book them over the phone.

MONDAY

9 A.M. - 5 P.M.

TUESDAY

10 A.M. - 2 P.M.

WEDNESDAY

11 A.M. - 7 P.M.

SATURDAY

9 A.M. - 1 P.M.

City Manager 281.316.3756 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

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

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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09

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

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

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VALENTINE’S DAY XOXO!

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

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

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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.

*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.

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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