Fire Inspector: Tim Zelenak Ext. 2990 | tzelenak@windcrest-tx.gov
Police Department: Chief Jim Cole Ext. 2130 | jcole@windcrest-tx.gov
Code Enforcement | Animal Control 210-655-2666
City Website: www.windcrest-tx.gov
Windcrest Economic Development Corporation
Director: Mario Hernandez
210-469-6802 | marioh@satx.rr.com
Coordinator: Karen K. Nelson
210-469-6800 | knelson@windcrest-tx.gov
Bexar County Water District #10
General Manager: David Wallace
210-655-2888 | gmbcwcid10@gmail.com
Mon – Thu 8 AM – 4 PM | Fri 8 AM – 3 PM
Water Emergencies: 210-422-4159
24-Hour Police Non-Emergency 210-655-2666
ALL EMERGENCIES
Mayor’s Message Dan Reese
Summer is here – and it came early (May and June were hot!). Welcome to July, I hope you all have an opportunity to get some vacation time with friends and family! I had a citizen reflect on how proud they were on Memorial Day at the number of flags displayed at homes in Windcrest. November Elections. One thing I remind our area elected officials – Windcrest votes! It goes without saying that the National elections are in the news, but I hope you all know that we have three City Council Member positions that you will be voting on also. On November 5th, 2024, we will elect Councilmembers for Place 1 (currently held by Wes Manning), Place 2 (currently held by Cindy Strzelecki) and Place 3 (currently held by Greg Turner). Here are some important dates:
• First day to file for a place was on July 20th
• Last day to file for a place: August 19th
• Last day to register to vote: October 7th
• Last day to apply for a ballot by mail: October 25th (received, NOT Postmarked)
• Early voting: October 21st through November 1st (times vary)
• Election Day: Tuesday, November 5th
Early voting and Election Day voting will take place at Takas Park Civic Center. Another way to serve during elections! I mentioned this last month, but as the election comes closer, I want to repeat - there is a need for Election officials! If you have extra time during voting season, you can be a part of the solution. Bexar County Elections Department has a need for Election Judges and Election Clerks. If you want to serve as an election official, go to the Bexar County Elections website (https://www.bexar.org/2182/Apply-as-an-Election-Official) for more information on how to apply.
FY 2024/2025 Budget. We are in Budget season! The Finance staff has been working with the department heads to present a draft budget. As you might expect, there are many factors that go into any budget. The cost of goods and services has increased for everyone over the last few years. Increase cost also affects the cost of providing the essential services the citizens of Windcrest expect. On the revenue side, the decision of Rackspace to leave Windcrest created a financial challenge. Luckily, we were able to secure Industrial Commercial Properties (ICP) as a buyer for the Rackspace property. The property is process of being repurposed and I believe that we will see greater use of the entire property over the next few years, but that takes time. The City Council will begin a series of budget meetings/ workshops to develop our financial plan for next year. Here are the planned meetings:
◊ July 10th @ 8AM, July 11th @ 6pm and July 12th @ 8AM- Budget Workshops
◊ July 31st - Bexar County Certified Tax Rolls
◊ August 5th – City Council will act on Tax Rate Public Hearing Notice
◊ August 19th – Public Hearing on Budget and Tax Rate
◊ September 16th – Adopt Tax Rate and FY 24-25 Budget
“Coffee with the Mayor” happens every Saturday that I am in town. Please see my Facebook page (Dan Reese, Mayor, City of Windcrest) for updates. We begin at 8:30 at Las Palapas on Walzem. You are welcome to come anytime you wish and leave as you choose to. Coffee is on me!
The credibility of the message is intrinsically tied to the integrity of the messenger.
~Chip Ingram
By Karen K. Nelson, WEDC Coordinator
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE WINDCREST INDUSTRIAL BUSINESS PARK
As we move on from Rackspace Corporate Headquarters to the WIBP, you may be wondering what this transition will look like. Here’s a glimpse at the future:
In the dynamic landscape of urban development, repurposing spaces plays a pivotal role in shaping local economies. The transformation of corporate headquarters and malls into vibrant retail hubs represents a significant trend with far-reaching economic implications.
Historically, corporate headquarters symbolized centralized power structures, often segregated from surrounding communities. However, converting these spaces into mixed-use complexes fosters a symbiotic relationship between commerce and community. By integrating retail spaces, dining options, and recreational facilities, these hubs become magnets for foot traffic, injecting vitality into previously underutilized areas.
Similarly, the metamorphosis of traditional malls into multi-retailer destinations reflects adaptive responses to evolving consumer preferences. Rather than succumbing to obsolescence, these malls reinvent themselves as dynamic ecosystems, accommodating a diverse array of businesses ranging from boutiques to tech start-ups. This diversification not only enhances the shopping experience but also cultivates entrepreneurship and innovation, nurturing local talent and fostering economic resilience.
Moreover, the economic impact extends beyond mere transactional activities. As these hubs flourish, they catalyze ancillary developments, spurring demand for housing, office spaces, and infrastructure upgrades. Job creation burgeons across sectors, from retail and hospitality to construction and property management, amplifying economic prosperity and social well-being.
In essence, the revitalization of corporate headquarters and malls transcends mere physical renovation; it embodies a paradigm shift towards inclusive, sustainable urban development. By harnessing the latent potential of these spaces, communities can unlock new opportunities, driving economic growth while nurturing a sense of belonging and vitality for all residents.
PUBLIC WORKS
Attention Windcrest residents! The city is scheduled to begin its annual mosquito fogging services beginning on 5/29. Fogging will occur every other week, for a total of 9 services. The schedule of fogging dates is listed below:
June 12th & 26th
July 10th & 24th
August 7th & 21st
September 4th & 18th
If you have any questions, please contact Public Works at (210) 468-9181.
Parks and Recreation News
Scan Me to Register
Iris Perez, GRI SRS MRP
Real Estate Consultant
Hablo Español
Cell #: (210) 995-8186
Of ce #: (210) 483-5000
Email: IrisPerezRealty@gmail.com
2526 N. Loop 1604 W., Ste. 210 San Antonio, TX 78248
CELEBRATE NATIONAL PARKS AND RECREATION MONTH WITH SUMMER FUN EVENTS!
Join us every Thursday in July (except for July 4th) for a month full of exciting activities at Takas Park, located at 9310 Jim Seal Dr., as we celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month! The Windcrest Park and Recreation Commission has organized a series of free family events designed to bring our community together for some summer fun.
Windcrest Resident at Your Service
CONCRETE IDEAS, LLC.
Be sure to register today by filling out the Summer Fun Registration Form using the QR code. All children MUST be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or adult throughout the events. Please be sure to wear appropriate attire for both indoor and outdoor activities. Drinks and snacks will be provided. If your child has a food allergy, please bring a suitable snack for them.
The event schedule is as follows: - July 11th (Field Day)
o Inflatable water slides will be available for kids to play
o Registration deadline: July 10th @ 4PM - July 18th (Field Day)
o Inflatable water slides will be available for kids to play
o Registration deadline: July 17th @ 4PM - July 25th (Arts & Crafts/Tennis)
o Indoor and outdoor activities with paint, chalk, and other crafts
o Tennis training lessons
o Registration deadline: July 24th @ 4PM
For more information, please visit the Windcrest Parks & Recreation page at www.windcrest-tx.gov/parksandrec
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Community First
By Jim Cole Windcrest Chief of Police
True heroism is remarkably sober, very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost.
~Arthur Ashe
July is here and with this special month comes parades (see you there!), joy and celebrations. Please remember to celebrate responsibly! Our officers are here to keep everyone safe, and a DWI is not a party favor you want to get. The average DWI will have negative repercussions on you, your community, and can affect your car insurance for years after. PLEASE FIND A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
And don’t forget! Fireworks are ILLEGAL to set off in Windcrest. We are happy to celebrate our freedom together with the residents we serve! It’s always a humbling thought to reflect on the sacrifices and dreams our forefathers set into motion so long ago.
PROTECT & SERVE
Wearing the Windcrest Badge
Sergeant John Stricklin wears Windcrest Police Department Badge 306. Sgt. Stricklin has been a member of the Windcrest Police Department since April 2024. Sgt. Stricklin has 26 years of law enforcement experience that started in Harris County and eventually brought him to Windcrest. Sgt. Stricklin says that one of the most rewarding aspects of policing is helping to be a problem solver. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing and hunting.
FIRE DEPARTMENT News
By Ivan Hernandez Windcrest Fire Chief
Happy Independence Day!
Lighting up the night sky with fireworks is a “lit” tradition that many Americans practice when celebrating the inception of our nation. Unfortunately, the City of Windcrest does NOT permit the use of fireworks within its jurisdiction. But don’t let that dull your sparkle! There are several other surrounding areas who permit the use of fireworks, so if you plan to celebrate elsewhere, please follow these safety tips so you don’t “spark” an accident!
1. Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Always have an adult supervise all firework activities.
2. Hold sparklers at arm’s length.
3. Never re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited. In the event of a “dud” firework, do not stand over it to investigate. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in water and throw it away.
4. Maintain a safe distance after lighting fireworks.
5. Do not aim fireworks at people, houses, and vehicles.
6. Always have a bucket of water and fire extinguisher nearby.
7. Keep pets indoors.
Let’s prioritize safety while making some explosive memories! Have a blast, everyone!
Code Enforcement & Compliance
By Daniel Fox, Police Code Compliance Agent
Oak tree cutting season starts July 1!
NOW is the time to trim - but don’t forget to obtain your permit first.
Trees must have at least a 13 ft. 6 in. clearance over road ways.
More detailed information is below:
Oak trees of any species that are growing within the corporal limits of the city may only be trimmed during the months of July, August, September, October, November, December, and January to limit oak wilt formation and transmission. Should any safety concern involving the obstruction of a right-of-way or a public safety hazard exist that must be addressed during months outside of the permitted oak tree-trimming season, then trimming is allowed only to the extent necessary to address the specified concern. The city may place reminder signs and notifications to allow the public to know when trimming is permitted.
Property owners and residents shall be responsible for damaged or wounded trees. All wounds to oak trees caused by trimming or pruning shall be painted immediately. Once a limb or root is trimmed or pruned, it shall be painted before moving on to the next limb or root in order to prevent contact with contaminated nitidulid beetles. If damage is discovered to the trunk, limbs, and/or root, such damage shall be painted as soon as practical after discovery. Painting shall be done in the same manner as described in section 35-4(a).
It’s hot out there - please remember to hydrate and wear sunscreen when taking care of your property!
If you need any assistance or want to report a violation of the Windcrest City Code, please contact your Code Enforcement Officer via the Windcrest Police Department Dispatcher at 210-655-2666 or send me an email thru the link provided within the Code Enforcement site located on my page.
This month I would like to share some information on KNOX BOXES. KNOX BOXES are a product that allow firefighters and paramedics to enter locked buildings without causing damage to the building. The Home Box is a residential version of the commercial one. It holds a key to the residence allowing firefighters and paramedics rapid entry to begin emergency care for those residents who need it most.
WHAT IS A KNOX HOME BOX?
A Knox Home Box is a highly secure container used for storing keys for home access. In case of an emergency, the Windcrest Fire Department can access the box with a master key, only Windcrest Fire Department has the master key. The box features a Medco Lock and Key. The Medco locking system guards against unauthorized key duplication. Once the resident’s key is placed inside and locked only the Windcrest Fire Department will have access to the key.
Once a Knox Home Box has been installed and you change your locks, you need to contact the Windcrest Fire Department to let us know so your key can be changed out.
BENEFITS
-Provides rapid access into the home without causing unnecessary damage to doors and windows from forced entry.
-Enhances the Windcrest Fire Department’s ability to protect the health and safety of our residents.
-Independent senior citizens and disabled residents receive necessary services more quickly during emergencies.
-If you ever accidentally lock yourself out of your home, the Windcrest Fire Department can let you back into your home, without causing any damage or an expensive locksmith bill.
The Knox Home Box can be ordered from the Knox Box Co. at www.knoxbox.com or by calling (800)552-5669. Knox Boxes are now available locally through the Windcrest Fire Department. The cost of the Knox Home Box (Wall Mount Only) is $100.00 if it’s purchased from the Windcrest Fire Department. If any resident has any questions about the Knox Home Box or would like to purchase a Knox Home Box please contact Windcrest Fire Marshal Tim Zelenak at (210)655-0022 or tzelenak@ windcrest-tx.gov
GARDEN CLUB
By: Kathleen Mulkey
The Spring season came to a close on June 20, 2024, but Summer offers a great opportunity to plant hearty okra, peppers, peas, and cucumbers. For a dash of color, gladiolus and dahlias are a sure bet for the sun-drenched season ahead.
Membership to the Windcrest Garden Club is open to WC residents and non-residents. The benefits include garden improvement projects, field trips, community service participation, and presentations by insightful speakers ready to share ideas on gardening and plant maintenance. To join or renew, fill out the form below and mail it with a check for $20.00 addressed to Windcrest Garden Club, P.O. Box 18786, San Antonio, Tx. 78218. Save the date: The first WC Garden Club meeting is Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at the TAKAS Civic Center.
to all of the May 2024 Yard Award Winners
Thanks for helping to make our city even more beautiful. Keep up the great work, Windcrest!
LIONS CLUB NEWS
By Lion Tim Flick
What a pleasure it was to cook and serve at Lunch & Love, the monthly free lunch at Cross Roads Church for individuals and families in our community! We always enjoy meeting all the guests and working with the CRC team to provide a wholesome meal, fellowship, and this month.. fresh baked apple pie ala mode!
The Windcrest Lions Club has the honor of sponsoring the Roosevelt High School LEO CLUB. We recently celebrated the outgoing officers and recognized the 2023-2024 LEO OF THE YEAR. We were delighted to present her with a scholarship award to help with her continued education. Please join us in congratulating LEO of the Year Hailee Weintraub and all the LEO members.
We are also proud to support the Texas Lions Camp (TLC). Some of our Lions recently participated in a workday at the Camp in Kerrville with other Lions from around the district to get the camp ready for the 2024 season. The Texas Lions Camp provides free camping experiences for kids with physical challenges or diabetes. The Camp is cost-free to the families, all expenses are paid by Lions Clubs in Texas and generous donations from people like you.
Windcrest Outdoor Storage
Your Windcrest Lions Club is a community service-oriented organization and makes a real and positive difference in people’s lives. If you would like to be a part of the goodness, we would love to have you join us! You can reach out to our membership chair at tkflick@gmail.com.
If you would like to learn more about joining the Lions Club you can contact us at 210-951-9463, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WindcrestLions or on our website www.windcrestlions club.org. We are currently meeting at the Windcrest Civic Center, you are welcome to join us!
Windcrest Volunteer Group Neighbors helping Neighbors
The Windcrest Volunteer Group recently came together for a successful community outreach event. Nine dedicated volunteers met up and split into three teams to distribute door hangers to 279 houses in just one hour. This effort is part of our ongoing commitment to inform the community that the Windcrest Volunteers are here to help. We are very grateful for everyone who participated and appreciate their dedication to our "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" initiative.
We encourage more residents to join the Windcrest Volunteer Group! It’s a fantastic way to meet neighbors and build a sense of community. The group has found the experience of working together to be positive and fulfilling, fostering relationships and connections among members.
If you're interested in getting more involved with the Windcrest Volunteer Group, please reach out to Anita@volunteer@windcrest-tx.gov. Let's continue to strengthen our community, one neighbor at a time!
WWC 2024-2025 Executive Officers: President, Lois Wooton; 1st Vice President, Janet Roberts; 2nd Vice President, Mariela Sanchez, Treasurer, Marlene Patton, Secretary, Susie Hamilton, were installed on May 22nd at the Petroleum Club with a ceremony conducted by Cindy Strzelecki. Cindy showed how our many differences and talents are like the colors of the rainbow. Each beautiful in their own right, but become exciting, stronger and more beautiful when standing together. We pledged to work together!
This
JOIN NOW! Meetings start again on August 28th 10am in the Civic Center!!
The board is hard at work preparing PROGRAMS, SPECIAL EVENTS, CHRISTMAS LIGHTUP, OLD BAG LUNCHEON, & CREATING THE ANNUAL YEARBOOK!
Join 3 ways: mail the form & dues to Windcrest Women's Club, P.O. Box 18444, San Antonio TX 78218, or ONLINE at WindcrestWomensClub. com, or use the QR code. Dues are $20 year.
To ensure your name is in the 2024-2025 Yearbook, join/renew by August 1st.
TxWeACT, an animal non-profit
Windcrest Animal Control Task Force
Meetings: the 4th Tuesday of the month
210-562-0299
By Pam Dodson
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!! TXWEACT WILL BE IN THE 4TH OF JULY PARADE THIS YEAR!!!
If you have not enjoyed the City of Windcrest’s 4th of July celebrations, come on out and see what you have been missing. Some people along the parade route could even have parties right in their front yard while the parade drives by!
This year we are also going to have a table of crafts in the city parking lot with the other vendors. Since everyone one of us in TxWeACT is a volunteer, every penny you spend with us goes to help the animals in Windcrest. Hope to see you there!!! We take the summer off for our meetings, but we will be having craft meetings so we can supply our craft booth at BFI Treasures in the shopping center off of Crestway (where the new restaurant is). By shopping at our booth there, you can continue to support our non-profit. We have a group of ladies with some really good ideas and the talent to support their ideas!! Who would have known that someone who loves animals could also make cute crafts? Be sure to come check us out!
We will being having our adoption events on the 2nd & 4th Saturdays from 1- 4pm until we find homes for Jude, Matthew, and Isabel. We would all take them home with us if we didn’t have the pets we already care for. We really want to find them good, loving homes so come on to Petsmart here in Windcrest and meet our dogs!!
Animal Care & Control
By Lt. Daniel Hernandez
Attention pet parents: if you are registering your pet, please bring rabies and microchip information as well as proof of alteration. It’s free to register your pet in most situations, and it’s the law! Contact us at 210-655-2666 to report a lost or found pet, to register your pet or to apply to foster or adopt. If your pet becomes lost, we want to help them find their way home! Please watch our Facebook page to see if we have posted any lost pets and reshare to help us spread the word!
Please keep in mind that is fireworks season. Keep your furry friends secure. Spooked dogs WILL RUN if they hear fireworks. It’s a great idea to try and get the advice of your veterinarian to see what can be done to keep your pets calm and safe.
Please consider fostering or adopting one of our amazing dogs. They are spayed/neutered and have had their initial vaccinations. Watch our Facebook and webpage as they are updated daily.
Winner of TxWeACT Superhero Dog Costume Contest! Winner: Luna, 15y/o, Dachsund Owner: Mariela Costume: Edna Mode
2nd & 3rd Place Winners of TxWeACT Superhero Dog Costume Contest!
Our TxWeACT Superhero Dog Costume Judges
(Dogs pictured here were available at time of newsletter submission)
Windcrest GOLF
banners flying freely this month. Windcrest Golf has red, white and blue flags flying on the Greens. Come and join us to find out what this all means -
LADIES PLAY EVERY THURSDAY, TEE TIME IS 8:30AM.
We welcome all levels of lady golfers. For information or questions please call Mary, 210-608-9645.
OTHER CONTACT INFORMATION
ORGANIZATIONS:
American Legion - Jack Leonhardt - jackleonhardt@aol.com
Boy Scout of America: Justin Buckner - 210-744-7296 - buckj64@gmail.com
FIT High-Performance Tennis Academy & Pickleball Center - 210-405-3781www.fithptennisacademy.com
Windcrest Women’s Club - Lois Wooten - 210-827-4357
Windcrest Citizen’s Patrol:
• Team 1 Captain - James Senseney - 210-823-1726
• Team 2 Captain - Joe Regan - 210-655-2355
• Team 3 Captain - Mike Magallanez - 210-267-8390
• Team 4 Captain - Elvie Ortiz - 210-861-5558
BOARDS & COMMISSIONS:
Refer to the City of Windcrest Board and Commission web page for a current list of vacancies. Applications accepted year-round.
Board of Adjustments
Billy Gipson
George Alva
Robert Rohleder - Chair
Susie Hamilton
Dr. Bruce Thompson
A1. Gwen Wilson
A2. VACANT
A3. VACANT
Ethics Commission
Rose Marie Caballero
Jill S. Vogel
Vanessa Rye
Peter Van Dusen - Chair
Victoria Moe
A1. VACANT
A2. VACANT
Parks & Recreation Commission
Jim Flinn - Chair
Angel Selina
Jay Eldridge
Lamar Lawson
Scott Lee Ross – Vice Chair
Vacant
Monica Baietti
A1. Vacant
A2. Jesus Martin
CUTOFF DATES FOR THE NEXT NEWSLETTER NOTICES TO CITY HALL :
To provide timely information in the next Newsletter , notices must be in the Administration Office by noon by July 31st, and announce activities occurring after August only. Please email articles to newsletter@windcrest-tx.gov in ‘Word’ documents only so articles can be edited for misspellings, etc. which cannot be done in PDF or any other format. Also, please provide a contact name & phone number for City Hall.
Planning & Zoning Commission
Rainbeau Presti - Chair
Terry McDowell
Steven Hall
Fern Dallas
Debora Huber
Barbara Meade
Matthew Halbert
A1. Tanya Aksamentova
A2. VACANT
A3. VACANT
WCCPD Board of Directors
Mike Arnold
Rhonda Rowland
William Lambrides
Margaret Weidenbach – Vice President
Dr. William R. Mueller – President
James Senseney
Tim Dehn
Economic Development Corporation
Melissa Cervera-Castro
Tanya Aksamentova
Frank Martin
Rainbeau Presti – Vice President
John Fagin
Ritchie “Rip” Stimpson
Jennifer Newman – President
BCWCID #10
Sue Alexander
Salexanderbcwcid10@gmail.com
To advertise in this newsletter, please contact Neighborhood News at 210-558-3160 or sales@neighborhoodnews.com
to the City Website windcrest-tx.gov and city hall Marquee for City Council and Board & Commission meeting dates.
