DECEMBER 2025
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
We’re simply having a wonderful College Station Christmas this December.
Check out the merry lineup of festive events.
A COLLEGE STATION CHRISTMAS
STATION Christmas Events:
7 Lights On
7 Movie Nights at City Hall
7 Breakfast with Blue Santa
7 Jingle Bell Fun Run
7 College Station Christmas Parade
7 Christmas in the Park Event
7 Senior Holiday Party (Ages 55+)
7 Jingle Bell Ride
7 Howdy Holly-Days
7 Holiday Artisan Market
CITY OFFICES CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS
City offices will be closed for the holidays from Dec. 22-26 and Jan. 1.
The Gary Halter Nature Center and Lincoln Recreation Center will be closed Dec. 22-Jan. 1.
The Southwood Community Center and Meyer Senior and Community Center will be closed Dec. 22-Jan. 5.
Solid waste and recycling routes scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 25, will be collected on Friday, Dec. 26. Friday's routes will be collected on Saturday.
ADULT PROGRAM
Discover Your City
ENGAGE, LEARN, PARTICIPATE!
Are you curious about how your city works? Do you want a deeper understanding of how city departments and divisions operate? If so, the City of College Station's Citizens University Program is just for you!
The Citizens University Program is an interesting and rewarding way for adults to connect with their local government and become more informed and engaged. The unique program provides a behind-the-scenes look at departmental duties and responsibilities and how they work together to make our city run smoothly.
Don't Miss Out!
Citizens University Benefits
• Gain In-Depth Knowledge: Explore the fascinating world of local government and gain a comprehensive understanding of how your city operates.
• Meet City Leaders: Interact with city officials, department heads, and dedicated professionals who are passionate about serving our community.
• Hands-On Experience: Get a firsthand look at the daily activities, challenges, and successes of city departments through interactive workshops and site visits.
• Enhance Civic Engagement: Equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to become an informed and engaged citizen who can actively contribute to our city's future.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for our community and build lasting relationships.
Discover the heart of your city, learn from the experts, and actively participate in shaping College Station's future. Join the Citizens University Program today!
Mayor Ring-Off
College Station Mayor John Nichols and Bryan Mayor Bobby Gutierrez will compete in the annual Mayor Ring-Off to raise money for The Salvation Army of Brazos County.
Whether it’s spare change or a few extra dollars, your donation can make a meaningful difference in the lives of area individuals and families. Every penny supports the Salvation Army’s essential programs and services, including food, shelter, and assistance for those facing hardships during the holiday season and beyond.
If your plans include a trip to Walmart, please stop and say hello to Mayor Nichols and the City Council and drop a donation into the kettle. You can help College Station win the title as our cities come together for a cherished tradition that highlights the spirit of giving and showcases our community’s generosity.
Saturday, Dec. 13, from noon to 5 p.m.
College Station
DRIVE SOBER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON: KEEP COLLEGE STATION ROADS SAFE
Christmas and New Year’s see a dramatic spike in alcohol-impaired driving crashes — a 264% increase in fatalities in 2023 compared to the prior 10-year average. December is recognized as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, reminding everyone to make responsible choices before getting behind the wheel.
In Texas, the stakes are high. In 2024, there were 22,846 DUI-alcohol related crashes, resulting in 1,083 fatalities and 2,263 serious injuries — that’s one person killed every 8 hours and 7 minutes due to a drunk driver. In College Station, impaired-driving crashes affect our friends, neighbors, and families, making prevention a community responsibility.
Whether you’re attending a holiday party, gathering with friends, or enjoying a night out, plan ahead to ensure everyone gets home safely:
• Stay where you are until you’re sober.
• Call a ride service such as Uber or Lyft.
• Ask a friend or family member who hasn’t been drinking to drive you home.
A DWI can have long-lasting consequences — from legal and financial challenges to difficulty maintaining employment, loss of trust, and the devastating human toll of crashes on victims and families. The “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” campaign shares real stories from offenders and survivors, highlighting how one poor decision can change lives forever.
Together, we can keep our community safe this holiday season and beyond. For safety resources and prevention tips, contact the College Station Police Department at 979764-3600 or follow them on Facebook.
One choice can make the difference between a safe holiday and a devastating one.
College Station Police Department encourages residents to plan a sober ride and look out for friends and family this holiday season.
Leaving town for the holidays? Protect your belongings
Christmasisaseasonofjoy andloveformany, but it’s also a time for criminals to take advantage of the unwary. Keep your family and property safe by taking common-sense precautions and reporting suspicious activities to the police.
Your home and vehicle can be easy targets for burglars looking for holiday gifts. When shopping, remember to hide your valuables and park in well-lit places. Whether you’re out and about or at home, lock, take, and hide Christmas presents and personal belongings.
Some people even set an alarm each night as a reminder to make sure their vehicles are secured. If you see suspicious activity, report it to CSPD at 979.764.3600.
Here are some other essential tips:
Keep gifts away from large windows or glass doors where passersby can see into your home.
Keep porch and driveway lights on to deter criminals from lurking in the shadows and checking out your belongings.
Beware of porch pirates looking for an easy grab of delivered packages when you’re not home. Having a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your deliveries when you’re away is always a good practice.
After opening gifts, don’t leave the box from your shiny new TV or PS5 on the curb. Instead of advertising to the bad guys, break the boxes down and put them in your recycle bin or take them to a recycling facility.
If the online deal you’re considering seems too good to be true, it may be a scam. Check out the legitimacy of websites and sellers before purchasing anything from an unfamiliar person or website.
GIVE BACK THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Here in College Station, we’re proud to partner with Aggieland Humane Society and the City’s Animal Control Unit—teams working hand-in-paw to keep pets safe, healthy and loved.
The People and Systems Behind the Care
The City’s Animal Control Unit, operating under the College Station Police Department, enforce ordinances and state laws that protects animals and people, responding to complaints about barking dogs, animal bites, neglect or abuse, and nuisance conditions.
When pets are lost or found in College Station, Animal Control transports them to Aggieland Humane Society.
All dogs, cats and ferrets in Brazos County must be license tagged and vaccinated for rabies. This is required by law. The county tag is available via
your veterinarian or Aggieland Humane Society and supports local pet services.
Staff, volunteers and Animal Control officers together ensure animals receive comfort, care and a clear path to a new home or safe return.
Success Stories Worth
Celebrating
Each adoption at Aggieland Humane represents more than a happy ending, it’s a new beginning. Over the past year, hundreds of pets have found homes thanks to the seamless partnership among Animal Control, the shelter and our supportive community.
How You Can Help
Your involvement matters. Here are ways you can support our shared efforts:
Adopt or foster
Open your home to a pet in need.
Ensure licensing & vaccination
All dogs, cats and ferrets in Brazos County must be licensed and rabies-vaccinated. It’s required by law.
Donate or volunteer
Contribution of time, money, supplies or voice helps both the shelter and Animal Control’s mission.
Report concerns
If you notice suspected abuse, neglect, stray animals or nuisance conditions, contact Animal Control at 979.764.3600.
Whether you adopt, volunteer, license your pet, donate, or simply share the love online, you can make a difference.
Help us keep tails wagging, purrs coming and homes filled with love. Visit aggielandhumane.org to learn how you can help today.
Got an Issue?
Fix it fast with SeeClickFix
Report non-emergency issues such as potholes, streetlights, or code violations directly to the City of College Station.
• Submit requests anytime, anywhere
• Attach photos for better clarity
• Track the progress of your request
Let’s keep our city safe, clean, and thriving. Download the SeeClickFix App today!
COLLEGE STATION CURBSIDE
Quickly find the solid waste, recycling, and bulk/brush pickup collection schedule for your address and set the free app to remind you of your collection days.
Check your holiday collection schedule
STOP!
DON'T POP!
We're just as excited as you are to say "farewell" to 2025 and start fresh in 2026, however, it is illegal to pop/discharge fireworks within College Station’s city limits.
While fireworks are a fun way to ring in the new year, the City ordinance prohibits their use inside city limits, including streets, parks, and neighborhoods. This rule helps protect people, pets, and property from fire hazards and injuries.
HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Saturday, Dec. 6, 4 p.m.
cstx.gov/parade
VIDEO
Available Now
REMEMBERING FORMER
CS MAYOR GARY HALTER
The City of College Station extends its heartfelt sympathies and deepest condolences to the family and friends of former Mayor Gary Halter, who passed away on Saturday, Nov. 8 at age 84. A longtime political science professor at Texas A&M, Halter served five years on the city council (1975-80) and six years as mayor (1980-86). He spearheaded the effort to acquire the 523 acres that became Lick Creek Park, and in 2022, the park’s nature center was named the Gary Halter Nature Center. Halter also played a key role in establishing the College Station Public Library and was a professor emeritus at Texas A&M’s Bush School of Government and Public Service.
LICK CREEK PARK HISTORY
HELP PLAN the Future of College Station
BOARDS, COMMISSIONS & COMMITTEES
• Boards and Commission members’ ideas often catalyze innovative programs and improved services.
• We will use your expertise, knowledge, and interests to improve policies and programs.
• Our city simply could not function as well as it does without your dedicated services.
OUR BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
• AGGIELAND HUMANE SOCIETY • ARCHITECTURAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE • AUDIT COMMITTEE
• B/CS LIBRARY COMMITTEE • BICYCLE, PEDESTRIAN, AND GREENWAYS ADVISORY BOARD
• CDBG PUBLIC SERVICE AGENCY FUNDING REVIEW COMMITTEE
• CONSTRUCTION BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS & BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS COMMISSION
• DESIGN REVIEW BOARD • HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE • HOUSING PLAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
• PARKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE • PLANNING AND ZONING COMMITTEE • ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS
Applications for Committees, Boards, and Commissions are open through December 28, 5 p.m.
The City Council will consider the applications and make appointments during the January 2026 regular meetings.
For more information, visit: onboard.cstx.gov
Contact City Secretary’s Office
Email: cso@cstx.gov or call 979.764.3541
Check a new career off your holiday wishlist!
The City of College Station is a terrific place to live and work.
Checkout cstx.gov/careers and find your perfect fit, or tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll notify you when a job becomes available.
WHAT DO THEY DO?
COLLEGE STATION FIRE DEPARTMENT
The College Station Fire Department is an internationally accredited, Class 1 ISO-rated agency of 174 professionals dedicated to protecting one of America’s most diverse communities. CSFD serves more than 129,000 residents, Texas A&M’s 74,000 students, Easterwood Airport, and neighboring communities through mutual aid.
With a $28 million annual budget, CSFD operates six modern fire stations across the city to ensure rapid emergency response. The department benefits from world-class training facilities nearby, including Brayton Fire Training Field, Disaster City®, and the Emergency Operations Training Center, operated by Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service. These resources support ongoing professional development, disaster simulations, and hands-on training for first responders.
OPERATIONS & SERVICES
Emergency Operations, CSFD’s largest division, responds to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, rescues, wildland fires, and airport emergencies. The division is led by an assistant chief and three battalion chiefs who oversee 48-hour shifts and coordinate personnel and stations citywide. Firefighters work 48 hours on and 96 hours off, with each crew assigned to a specific engine, ladder truck, or ambulance.
Beyond emergency response, crews conduct pre-fire inspections, ongoing training, station and equipment maintenance, public safety presentations, smoke-detector installations, and station tours. Specialized services include fire suppression, Emergency Medical Services, hazardous materials response, Airport Rescue Fire Fighting, wildland firefighting, and technical rescues.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
CSFD provides advanced-level emergency medical care on all vehicles, with crews trained to the Mobile Intensive Care Unit level. The department offers medical standby services for community events, including athletic competitions and the Special Olympics. When transport is needed, ambulances take patients to hospitals based on condition, preference, and proximity.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH & PUBLIC EDUCATION
CSFD engages residents through school presentations, public safety events, and training programs, promoting emergency preparedness and building trust with the community. Residents can tour any department station for a behind-thescenes look at operations, equipment, and daily life at the firehouse.
Kwanzaa Celebration at the Lincoln Recreation Center (1997) Way Back When
STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUR CITY, YOUR WAY
At the City of College Station, open communication is the foundation of good government. Our Public Communications team ensures residents have clear, convenient access to accurate and timely information about what’s happening across our community.
STAY CONNECTED
Follow along your way:
Follow the City on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube for daily updates, stories, and event highlights.
Visit our dynamic new website at cstx.gov anytime for detailed information about services, programs, departments, and ongoing projects and initiatives.
Check out the City’s online calendar for a complete list of upcoming events, meetings, and programs.
GET NEWS DELIVERED TO YOU
Choose the updates that fit your life:
Subscribe to our news feed for real-time city updates, including press releases, City Council agendas, blogs, and podcasts.
Sign up for our I Heart CS digital monthly newsletter for a colorful, magazine-style layout of citywide news, in-depth articles, and upcoming events.
Want more tailored e-newsletter updates?
Neighborhood e-Newsletter offers weekly updates specific to neighborhoods, including previews of City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission meetings.
Recreation Connection e-Newsletter keeps you in the loop on Parks and Recreation programs, events, and facility updates.
Don’t miss the City of College Station blog for previews and recaps of City Council meetings, events, activities, programs, and podcasts.
You can also sign up for emergency alerts to receive timely notifications about severe weather and other urgent situations.
WATCH, LISTEN AND PARTICIPATE
Tune in to the What’s Up, College Station? podcast or Channel 19, our local government cable channel, for interviews, stories, and public service announcements.
Watch City Council and Planning & Zoning meetings live at cstx.gov/cstv19 or on Optimum Channel 19, or catch the archived recordings anytime.
Explore more ways the City engages, listens, and stays connected.
Communication builds connection — and an informed community is an empowered community.
Photo of the Month
Photography by Brody Lane McKinnon
The City’s New Development List is updated weekly with projects submitted to the Planning and Development Services Department the previous week. For questions, contact Planning and Development Services at cspds@cstx.gov or call 979.764.3570.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
VOITIER PROMOTED TO ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE STATION’S ELECTRIC UTILITY
Kim Voitier has been promoted to assistant director of College Station’s electric utility. Voitier has served as the administration manager at College Station Utilities since 2021.
Voitier is in her 23rd year with the City of College Station, working in three departments. Before becoming the administration manager, she was an electric system data analyst at CSU from 2013-21, a benefits coordinator in Human Resources from 2006-13, and the action center coordinator in Information Technology from 2003-06.
“Kim is an integral part of the Utility and understands what it means to serve the community,” CSU - Electric Director Glenn Gavit said. “Her attention to detail and passion for supporting both our staff and mission make her a key part of CSU. I’m excited to see her step into the assistant director role and continue strengthening the organization.”
As the utilities administration manager, Voitier led Cost of Service studies, Transmission Cost of Service rate case filings with the Public Utility Commission of Texas, and strategic planning that directly informed rate structures and longterm financial sustainability. She also coordinated purchase power agreements, Congestion Revenue Rights, gas hedging, and power generation feasibility, ensuring sound risk management and supply stability.
Additionally, Voitier has played a vital role in preparing and overseeing CSU’s annual budget and served as the department’s public information officer, managing media inquiries and keeping the public informed during power outages.
CSFD PARAMEDICS TRAIN IN UNIQUE SKILL LAB
Recently CSFD paramedics rotated through a unique training skill lab. They were trained and practiced performing advanced surgical cricothyrotomy airway management.
The department partnered with K&C Meat Processing in Navasota to provide swine trachea that are similar to human anatomy. Led by CSFD Medical Director Dr. Rob Schmidt and the department's field training officers, members received handson practice in the high-risk, low-frequency skill.
The department is committed to providing ongoing training to maintain proficiency and expertise among our advanced life support providers, ensuring the highest quality care for citizens when every second counts.
WHITTENTON EARNS TXPPA PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR
Buyer II Brandi Whittenton has received the Texas Public Purchasing Association President’s Award for the second year in a row. The honor was presented at the 2025 Fall TxPPA Conference in San Marcos.
Whittenton earned the award for her outstanding service and dedication to the association, including her pivotal role in planning and producing this year’s conference. In addition to her behindthe-scenes contributions, she served as a presenter, sharing her expertise in a session titled “Train the New P-Card Cardholder and Returning Users.” Her leadership and commitment helped ensure a successful and impactful event for purchasing professionals across the state.
The recognition celebrates Whittenton’s individual excellence and underscores her continued commitment to professional growth and service to the public procurement field.
Community Kudos
CITIZENS PRAISE COCS EMPLOYEES
PARKS & REC
"I am always so impressed with all the programs sponsored by Parks and Recreation, especially those for us seniors. My sister and I love the Foreversize exercise class. We go to the Monday class at the Meyer Center. We also attend the History Lectures and Lunches at the Larry Ringer Library. All of the speakers have been excellent. I picked up the November calendar today of activities at the Meyer and Lincoln Centers. So many activities. Thank you!!"
“Before my week gets away, I just wanted to share some highlights of yesterday’s class! I was blown away by the support of your staff and their professionalism. Jacob (Wallace) was a huge help with the mechanics of my slide presentation. I leaned on him, and he was outstanding with in-house information about the grounds. He put me at ease, and what a value — I don’t have enough words!
Then we have Patrick (Lewis), who showed up in ways that made my presentation stand out. Of course, Angel (Santamaria), who has his very own unique presence, brought comfort. I had met him earlier in the year, and it was great to have him there. With a minor glitch in the technology, I feel it was a successful presentation. We even ended up with a name for the tree we so lovingly hugged.
With that said, thank you for the unexpected support from your staff. All I can say is WOW, WOW. Not to forget Greg (Ordonez), who keeps things clean and organized with his gentle spirit! It was a great day for me and promoted the (heck) out of Lick Creek Park and the Parks and Recreation events.”
Stay Connected!
Keep up with city events, programs, emergencies, notices, and more by following us on social media. We'd love to hear from you, too!
/CityofCollegeStation
@CityOfCollegeStation
@CityofCS
City of College Station
VIDEO
“What’s Up, College Station?”
Video and Podcast
Learn the latest about the City of College Station’s services, events, programs, and more as we chat with leaders and experts from across the organization.
PODCASTS VIDEOS
College Station City Council
RECAPS
The College Station City Council meets twice monthly at City Hall, except in December. OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
NOV. MEETINGS
NOV. 13: Blog | YouTube
NOV. 24: Blog | YouTube
UPCOMING MEETINGS
THURSDAY, DEC. 11, 6 P.M.
CAN’T MAKE IT IN PERSON?
The meetings are streamed live on Optimum Channel 19 and cstx.gov/cstv19 and live blogged at blog.cstx.gov
(L-R): William Wright, Bob Yancy, Mark Smith, John Nichols (mayor), David White, Melissa McIlhaney, and Scott Shafer.
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION CONTACTS
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
979.764.3690 cstx.gov/cip
CITIZEN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS 979.764.3541 cstx.gov/committees
CODE ENFORCEMENT / SEECLICKFIX
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
979.764.6363 cstx.gov/codeenforcement
979.764.3570 cstx.gov/pds
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 979.764.3625 grow.cstx.gov FIRE DEPARTMENT 979.764.3705 cstx.gov/fire HUMAN RESOURCES 979.764.3517 cstx.gov/hr
bcslibrary.org MUNICIPAL COURT 979.764.3683 cstx.gov/court
cstx.gov/neighbor
cstx.gov/parks
cstx.gov/pds
cstx.gov/police
cstx.gov/pubcomm
cstx.gov/publicworks
PARKS AND RECREATION CONTACTS
