Webster Way | March 2024

LEADING WITH PURPOSE

Celebrating the Women of Webster’s Human Resources Department

Comprising a dynamic team of accomplished individuals, the Human Resources Department is a beacon of support, advocacy, and empowerment for the City’s workforce. Led by Director Brenda Miller-Fergerson, whose extensive experience in both the private and public sectors has shaped the department’s vision and direction, the team is driven by a shared passion for serving employees with integrity and compassion.

What sets this department apart is its pivotal role in managing critical HR functions and its unique composition: an all-female team, each member bringing her blend of expertise, passion, and leadership to the table.

As International Women’s Day approaches, we’re

“We support employees in their goals. We encourage employees to apply for positions of interest, regardless of their gender. We help employees find training to support their professional growth.”

—Brenda Miller-Fergerson, Director of Human Resources

shining a spotlight on these individuals’ remarkable contributions and celebrating the HR Department’s collective strength at the City of Webster. Their unwavering commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture, driving meaningful change, and supporting the professional growth of every employee underscores the department’s role in the City’s success.

Together, they embody the spirit of empowerment, collaboration, and excellence, ensuring that every member of the workforce thrives and succeeds.

“We all approach each day with a positive attitude and want to be the best at what we do. We are a driven team that helps and supports each other,” says Senior Human Resources Generalist Chandra Jobb.

MEET THE HUMAN RESOURCES TEAM

CHANDRA JOBB

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

Chandra Jobb brings over a year of dedicated service as the Human Resources Manager at the City of Webster. Chandra’s introduction to HR began during her tenure at the City of Kemah, where she served as the Accounting and HR Manager. Transitioning into various roles within municipal administration, Chandra discovered her true calling in Human Resources. When the opportunity arose to join the HR department at the City of Webster, Chandra seized the chance to pursue her passion for HR again. In her current role, Chandra oversees critical HR functions, including benefits administration, onboarding, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) processing, and policy updates. Her multifaceted responsibilities underscore her versatility in navigating the complexities of HR management. Chandra’s dedication to staying up-to-date with employment laws reflects her commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of employees.

BRENDA MILLER-FERGERSON HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR

Brenda Miller-Fergerson serves as the Director of Human Resources at the City of Webster, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise over decades of dedicated service. Brenda’s remarkable journey from the news business to municipal administration reflects her adaptability and commitment to making a meaningful impact in HR. Her journey in HR is enriched by a diverse career that began in the news industry, notably at USA Today, where she held roles ranging from Controller to General Manager and Vice President. With a Master’s degree in HR, Brenda’s transition to City government work was driven by a desire to serve her community. In her current role, Brenda oversees various HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, policy development, and risk management. Her leadership is characterized by a customer-centric approach, where employees are viewed as valued customers whose needs and concerns are prioritized.

VALERIE MARTINEZ HUMAN RESOURCES GENERALIST

Valerie Martinez is an integral member of the Human Resources Department at the City, contributing her expertise and dedication to various facets of HR operations. Valerie’s professional journey began in the educational sector, where she played instrumental roles in ensuring the smooth operation of multiple departments. Driven by a desire for new challenges and opportunities for growth, Valerie found her calling in the HR field. Inspired by her father’s legacy of service to the City, Valerie was drawn to the HR Department’s mission to support employees and foster a positive workplace culture. As an HR Generalist, Valerie is pivotal in supporting the department’s initiatives and ensuring the smooth execution of HR processes. Her responsibilities encompass diverse areas such as recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, benefits administration, and policy enforcement. With her attention to detail, Valerie maintains compliance with employment laws and fosters a positive work environment for all employees.

WHAT’S THE BUZZ IN WEBSTER?

CITY-WIDE CLEAN-UP WEEK & GARAGE SALE

Spring cleaning is right around the corner! City-Wide CleanUp Week will begin on Monday, March 25, and end on Friday, March 29. The City will provide free residential curbside pickup of trash, furniture, appliances, tree limbs, etc.

Discarded items may also be disposed of at the Webster Public Works Service Center, 855 Magnolia Ave.

No chemicals, paint cans, vehicle parts, tires, or other hazardous materials will be picked up.

Residents are also encouraged to hold garage sales on Saturday, March 23. Any unwanted items can then be placed on the curb for pick up during the City’s Spring Clean-Up Week. If you would like to advertise your home for the garage sale, email us at rlazo@cityofwebster.com

2024 GENERAL ELECTION INFO SATURDAY, MAY 4TH

The City of Webster will conduct a General Election on May 4, 2024. Council Position 1 and 2 will be on the May ballot.

A voting device to assist disabled voters will be available during Early Voting and Election Day.

For more information, please visit our City page by scanning the QR code.

IMPORTANT DATES

EASTER EGG HUNT

The City of Webster will host its beloved annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 30, at 10 A.M. at Walnut Park. This delightful tradition promises fun-filled activities for the whole family!

There will be separate egg hunts tailored to different age groups, ensuring every child has an egg-citing time! Additionally, there will be an egg hunt for our beloved senior citizens, providing enjoyment for everyone in our community.

Following the egg hunt, don’t miss the chance to meet and take photos with the Easter Bunny! Visit the gazebo at Walnut Park for this special photo opportunity.

CONCERT IN THE PARK

• EARLY VOTING: APRIL 22-30

• LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE: APRIL 4

• BALLOT BY MAIL APPLICATION DEADLINE: APRIL 23

The City is excited to announce its first Concert in the Park of the year featuring the cover band Park Avenue. From classic rock to pop favorites, they’ll have you dancing and singing along all night! This event is free and open to the public, so grab your friends, family, and lawn chairs and join us for an unforgettable night of music under the Texas Avenue Pavilion. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or simply looking for a fun way to unwind, this Concert in the Park is sure to be a hit!

PET HEALTH SAFETY DRIVE-THRU CLINIC

Mark your calendars for a paw-some event that you won’t want to miss! Webster Humane Services is thrilled to announce its annual Pet Health Safety Drive-Thru on Saturday, March 23, at the Public Works Service Center at 855 Magnolia Avenue. Ensure the safety of your beloved furry companions by taking advantage of our microchipping and registration services. Various vaccinations will be available to help protect your pets from common diseases and illnesses. Keeping your pets up-to-date on vaccinations is essential for their health and well-being. This event is open to all pet owners in the community.

EASTER BASKET BUNNY HOLIDAY CARROT CHOCOLATE

HOP HUNT EGGS CHIC RABBIT

THE KIDS CORNER

Easter Bucket List

EASTER EGG HUNT

Come out to the City’s annual Easter Egg Hunt! Collect colorful eggs filled with candies and meet the Easter Bunny!

EGG DECORATING

Set up a station for kids to decorate hard-boiled eggs with paints, markers, stickers, and other craft supplies.

EASTER CRAFTS

Engage children in Easter-themed crafts such as making paper bunnies, Easter cards, or creating Easter baskets.

EASTER BAKING

Bake Easter-themed cookies or cupcakes. Allow children to participate in the baking process and decorate the treats.

EASTER COLORING PAGES

Print out Easter-themed coloring pages for kids to enjoy coloring with crayons or colored pencils.

PLANTING SEEDS

Teach children about new life by planting seeds or small plants. This can be a great way to connect Easter with growth and renewal.

OUTDOOR PICNIC

Pack a picnic basket with Easterthemed snacks and have a picnic in the garden or at a nearby park.

6. The Easter ____ hops around the world and delivers presents.

1. A caterpillar transforms into a _____.

3. Which came first, the ____ or the egg?

7. Webster holds an annual Easter ___ Hunt.

2. The Easter Bunny’s favorite food.

4. A baby chick’s mother.

5. April showers bring May ____.

SO LONG, PARTNER

February marked a significant moment for the Webster Police Department as they bid farewell to Officer Gary Wirt, who retired after a 34-year career of dedicated service.

On Friday, February 2, the Police Department celebrated Officer Wirt’s remarkable journey with a heartfelt retirement party. Webster PD officers and staff joined the festivities, presenting Officer Wirt with a touching assortment of gifts and memorabilia to commemorate his time with them.

Police Chief Pete Bacon delivered a speech, expressing gratitude for Officer Wirt’s unwavering commitment and countless achievements to the Police Department over the years. As the afternoon unfolded, officers shared cherished stories and fond memories, reflecting on Officer Wirt’s impact on each of them and the community.

Though Officer Wirt may be retiring from his official duties, his legacy and friendship will forever remain a cherished part of the Webster PD family. We wish Officer Gary Wirt a fulfilling and joyful retirement, knowing that his work will continue to inspire us all.

PUBLIC WORKS EXCELLENCE

Assistant Director of Public Works-Utilities Anthony Pineiro has reached a remarkable milestone in his career by obtaining a Double “A” License, a prestigious achievement in Texas water operations.

Anthony has earned a Class “A” license for Water Treatment and a Class “A” license for Wastewater Treatment. These licenses signify Anthony’s expertise and dedication to upholding the highest water and wastewater treatment standards.

To put this accomplishment into perspective, only 404 individuals in Texas hold a Class “A” license, making Anthony part of an esteemed and select group of professionals.

Obtaining these licenses is a testament to his hard work and commitment and underscores his crucial role in ensuring the safety and quality of our water systems. Congratulations, Anthony, on this significant achievement!

SPLASH PAD UPDATES

The City is excited to announce that renovations are underway at the Texas Avenue Park Splash Pad, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for our community.

Scheduled to reopen in April, the splash pad is receiving a fresh coat of slip-resistant paint, a proactive measure to prevent slipping and falling, especially for young children. Additionally, the City is expanding the surrounding area with more turf, providing ample space for families to relax and enjoy the fun-filled atmosphere.

We can’t wait to unveil the refreshed and improved splash pad soon!

RETIREMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

CITY COUNCIL RECAP

January Recap

• City Council adopted an Ordinance amending Chapter 22, Article III: Itinerant Vendors of the Code of Ordinances to ensure relevance and applicability as it relates to the health, safety, and quality of life for all citizens.

• City Council approved the purchase of four vehicles for the Police Department. This procurement involves replacing two 2017 models and introducing two new additions to the department’s fleet.

• City Council authorized a purchase order to Branch Construction Group to perform pipe bursting on approximately 650 feet of an existing sanitary sewer line due to a collapsed sewer main between Old Galveston Road and Lift Station 3.

• City Council authorized a purchase order to replace the bar screen at the Wastewater Treatment Plant due to frequent failures, such as clogs and jams that interfere with operational needs.

• City Council authorized a contract with City Hall Essentials to assist in the duties necessary to conduct a General Election.

• City Council authorized the purchase of new election equipment as the equipment utilized in past elections no longer complies with election guidelines.

*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.

Jennifer

Beverly

Martin

Donna Jasso

Edward Lapeyre

Bill Jones