JUNE 2025
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
TREE-CENTRIC TRIUMPH: COLLEGE STATION MARKS
35 YEARS (AND COUNTING) AS A TREE CITY USA
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATE
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed in Galveston with news the war had ended and the enslaved were free. It was two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect.
A century and a half later, we continue to celebrate Juneteenth, now a federal holiday. It’s a time for reflection, rejoicing, and learning about local black history and culture.
We invite you and your family to celebrate with free events this month.
JUNETEENTH FREEDOM MARCH AND BREAKFAST
Wednesday, June 18 • 9-11 a.m.
Lincoln Recreation Center
Celebrate Juneteenth, the uniquely Texas holiday commemorating the official jubilee and ending of slavery in Texas in 1865, with a powerful march through the community around the LRC, followed by a delicious breakfast, musical performance, and reading of The Emancipation by the Houston Chapter of the Buffalo Soldiers.
PARTY AT THE PAVILION
Wednesday, June 18 • 6-8:30 p.m.
Lincoln Recreation Center
Join us for an unforgettable celebration at the LRC as we honor Juneteenth, the day that marks the official end of slavery in the United States. The vibrant and joyous event will be filled with music, activities, culture, and community spirit, celebrating freedom.
CITY OFFICES CLOSED FOR JUNETEENTH
City offices and facilities will be closed on Thursday, June 19, for Juneteenth. Solid waste and recycling collections will operate on the regular schedule.
F REE A D MI SS I O N !
W O LF P EN CREE K AM P HITHE A TE R
G A TE S OP EN A T 6 P . M .
C O N CE R T S B EGIN A T 7 P . M . 1 4 TE J A N O J UN E
C oo le r s must be 48 qu a rts o r
sm al le r . G l a ss c o n ta i n e r s, k egs, a n d p e ts a r e n o t a l l o w ed .
P a rki n g i s a v ai l a b l e a t P ost O a k
M a l l , an d han d i c a p parking will be lo c a t ed o ff Col g a t e D ri v e .
L EARN M O RE : 979 . 764 . 348 6
C ST X . G O V / S T A RL I GH T
GET OUT AND PLAY!
Recently, the city held official ribbon cutting ceremonies for the brandnew Anderson Park pickleball and multi-use courts and the redeveloped Bee Creek and Central Park Tennis Courts.
Both projects were approved by the voters in the 2022 bond election.
Anderson Park Multi-Use Courts
• 4 pickleball courts
• 2 multi-use courts (futsal, bike polo, roller hockey)
• Full LED lighting
• Parking lot addition
Bee Creek/Central Park Tennis Courts
• 4 courts at Bee Creek Park
• 2 courts at Beachy Central Park
• New LED Lighting
• Court accessories
CITIZENS UNIVERSITY
GRADS GAIN DEEPER UNDERSTANDING OF CITY GOVERNMENT
The 2025 Citizens University Program recently concluded with a graduation ceremony at City Hall on April 29, celebrating the completion of the rigorous 13-week course and a newfound sense of civic awareness and community connection.
From late January through April, 22 committed College Station residents stepped behind the scenes to experience local government and explore the intricate operations
that keep our community running smoothly. The cohort took participants into the hallways, control centers, and workspaces of many City departments.
The Monday evening sessions navigated topics ranging from the buzz of the Emergency Dispatch Center to the strategic planning behind public safety, infrastructure, and community development.
Based on participants’ feedback, here are a few highlights:
• The Public Works session examined heavy equipment and how streets, drainage, and solid waste are managed, revealing how much work happens behind the scenes.
• The Fiscal Services class explained how tax dollars are allocated, giving students a clearer picture of what the City does with those funds – and why.
• The Water Services session showed how the City ensures safe, reliable drinking water for our continued growth through conservation. Participants even got to tour the inside of a water tower!
Other participating departments were Community Services, Neighborhood and University Relations, Planning and Development, Municipal Court, CSU Electric, Fire, Economic Development and Tourism,
Capital Projects, Police, Public Communications, City Council, City Secretary, and the City Manager’s Office.
For many, the program’s highlight was connecting with City staff –putting faces and names behind the trucks, flashing lights, and yellow vests. Participants consistently praised City employees’ enthusiasm and passion, leaving with a deeper connection and appreciation for those who serve our community.
If you’ve ever wondered how your city works and want to be more engaged, consider applying for the next Citizens University in 2026. It’s more than a class — it’s a front-row seat to how your local government works.
FIREWORKS, MUSIC, AND FAMILY FUN.
JULY 4 • 7:30-10 P.M.
WOLF PEN CREEK AMPHITHEATER
FAMILY FISH
Saturday, June 7 • 7-11 a.m.
George Bush Presidential Library
CSPD invites you to join us for Family Fish! The pond will be stocked with fish, and additional activities will include games, educational exhibits, and displays of emergency vehicles.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing gear. A limited number of child-sized fishing poles will be available to borrow while supplies last. The event is not catchand-release, so come prepared if you'd like to take your fish home!
Fishing licenses are not required. The event is FREE and open to the public.
C.A.S.T. CAMP
June 23-26 • 7-11 a.m.
CSPD Headquarters
C.A.S.T (Community Action Safety Training) Camp is dedicated to showing youngsters an inside look at what it takes to be a firefighter and police officer and how the departments work together to serve and protect the community.
Learn More
JUNE
SEMINAR SUPPER
TREES AND MAINTENANCE IN NEIGHBORHOOD DETENTION PONDS
Learn while enjoying a delicious meal at this month's Seminar Supper.
TUESDAY, JUNE 24
6-8 P.M. CITY HALL
The free event is open to all—dinner is on us!
RSVP BEFORE JUNE 18
College Station will celebrate its 87th anniversary as an incorporated city in October. While that age may seem ancient to some, we remain a relatively young community.
That’s precisely what makes the City’s new 160-page pictorial history book truly extraordinary. From its early days to the present, College Station’s journey has been paved with captivating stories, exceptional people, and compelling images to rival those of much older communities.
On May 19, the City of College unveiled the 12 x 12 coffee-table style book at a public celebration at Visit College Station (1207 Texas Avenue).
The beautiful and unique book, which contains over 200 rare and remarkable images, is a bargain at
$40. It is available at the College Station Visitors Center.
THE HISTORY BOOK’S HISTORY
When the idea for producing a pictorial history book emerged, we sought bids from top publishers to design and create a first-class product. Such projects are typically expensive, and this one was no exception, with some initial estimates exceeding $60,000 to cover full production and printing.
Then, it dawned on us that our own incredibly skilled designers, writers, editors, marketers, photographers –and even a historical records archivist — were capable of handling the research and design.
These dedicated City employees willingly accepted the daunting
task of creating a pictorial history book from scratch while still fulfilling their daily responsibilities. The effort required countless hours, but they never complained—well, maybe just a little. Still, it was a labor of love. Once the book was completed and ready for printing, we engaged an experienced and reputable pictorial book publisher to ensure highquality results. Nationally recognized Pediment Publishing, with over 1,500 successful titles in its impressive portfolio, was the ideal choice.
The total printing and delivery cost for 500 copies was about $21,000, and Pediment’s top-notch production values were worth every penny. Overall, our in-house development approach saved the City as much as $40,000.
The project took over 15 months, from concept development to delivery.
City Councils from 2022-24 championed the visual history book to preserve the City’s unique past for future generations. We sincerely thank past and present members of the Council’s history book subcommittee, including William Wright, Linda Harvell, Dennis Maloney, and Bob Brick. Their vision and commitment to honoring our heritage resulted in a lasting and invaluable resource.
We also acknowledge the Historic Preservation Committee members for their valuable insights and support, which shaped the book’s direction. Their knowledge and dedication to preserving College Station’s history contributed significantly to its success.
Ultimately, City staff created a stunning masterpiece. A true treasure emerged from the extraordinary
talents, creativity, diligence, and boundless imaginations of Ross Brady (chief of staff), Bobbie Lehrmann (assistant director of public communications), Kimberly McNally (historical records archivist), Joelene Tomecek (multimedia manager), Lucero Valenzuela (multimedia coordinator), Grace
Hallowell (marketing coordinator), and Colin Killian (director of public communications).
We’re confident you’ll enjoy this fascinating pictorial overview of College Station’s past, and we encourage you to share it with your family and friends.
ONE CITY ONE TEAM
The City of College Station is not only an incredible place to live, but it is also a wonderful place to work!
We offer a variety of job opportunities, including full-time, part-time, seasonal positions, and internships.
JUNE 21
MAKE MUSIC DAY
Make Music Day is a celebration of music that takes place on the summer solstice, performed by anyone and enjoyed by everyone. This event is held annually and spans the entire day in over 1,000 cities worldwide, including College Station, Texas! You're invited to join the festivities and showcase the vibrant music scene in College Station.
College Station is proud to be designated as a Music-Friendly Texas Community by the Texas Music Office, boasting a thriving community of talented music professionals. We recognize the significant economic impact that the music industry has on the City of College Station!
Learn how to participate in Make Music Day College Station.
College Station
college station,texas MusicFriendlyTexas
OPEN OUR POOLS ARE
Adamson Lagoon and Cindy Hallaran Pools are open for the season!
Whether you want to exercise, relax under the sun, or allow your kids to learn swimming skills and water safety in a fun environment, we have something for everyone.
For hours of operation, facility rental information, and more visit the link below:
BRINGING YOU THE BUSINESS
DE BACA
STEAKHOUSE
OPENED IN MARCH
ZAKE NOODLE HOUSE
OPENED IN MARCH
HOUSTON TX HOT
CHICKEN
OPENED IN APRIL
BUBBA'S 33
OPENED IN MAY
LUCKY GOAT COFFE
CO.
OPENED IN MAY
STATE SOCCER CHAMPS!
Mayor Pro Tem Mark Smith proclaimed April 22 Lady Tiger Soccer Day in College Station at a rally celebrating A&M Consolidated High School's 2025 5A-Division I girls' state championship.
The Lady Tigers finished the season 26-0-1, including a 4-0 win against Colleyville Heritage in the title game. "The Lady Tigers represented the entire College Station community with class and the highest level of sportsmanship," Smith read from the proclamation document.
WHAT DO THEY DO?
Video Here
COLLEGE STATION ANIMAL CONTROL
College Station Animal Control works hard to protect residents from dangerous animals and ensure domestic pets are treated humanely. Officers respond to complaints like barking dogs, bites, and abuse, and can issue citations or quarantine animals when needed for safety.
Report animal bites (including wildlife): Call 979.764.3600. Avoid direct contact with wildlife, and contact a pest control service for nuisance animals.
Lost a pet? Call 979.764.6261 with a description and location. Also check with neighbors, shelters, and post on social media.
Found a pet? Try locating the owner or contact Animal Control during business hours. You can also visit a vet or shelter to check for a microchip.
Don’t forget your pet’s tag! All dogs, cats, and ferrets in Brazos County are required to be rabies-vaccinated and have a license tag. Tags are available for $15 and can be obtained through your veterinarian or the Aggieland Humane Society (979.775.5755). Benefits include 24/7 lost pet support, emergency transport, and more.
Together, we can protect the safety and well-being of our entire community, including our furry friends.
SUNDAY FAMILY DAY AT THE LARRY J RINGER
MOVIE AFTERNOON: FRANKLIN AND THE TURTLE LAKE TREASURE
SUNDAY, JUNE 22 • 2-3:30 P.M.
Enjoy a free movie at the Larry J. Ringer Library!
Watch Franklin and the Turtle Lake Treasure. Snacks are available during the show. This movie is rated G. Registration is not required.
For more, contact Ringer Library or call 979.209.6347.
Photo of the Month
Photography by Brody Lane McKinnon
City staff members pose for a photo at the Lincoln Recreation Center's Show 'Em Off Car and Bike Show in May.
RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS
MUNICIPAL COURT EARNS
15TH STRAIGHT TRAFFIC SAFETY AWARD
The College Station Municipal Court recently received the Municipal Traffic Safety Initiative Award from the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center for the 15th straight year.
Funded by a Texas Department of Transportation grant, the initiative recognizes municipal courts that have made outstanding contributions to increasing traffic safety. College Station earned an honorable mention award for programs such as National
Night Out, community partnerships with Texas A&M, and high school visits designed to decrease traffic crashes, fatalities, juvenile DUIs, and other traffic-related offenses.
Those under the age of 25 are three times more likely to die in a car crash than the following three causes combined, so this issue is critical. We're committed to continually educating our community about traffic safety.
CITY FUEL STATIONS
PASS TCEQ AUDIT
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's Petroleum Storage Tank team identified no violations after completing an audit of our fuel station practices, infrastructure, and recordkeeping procedures. The three-year audit confirms that city operations comply with state and federal regulations for the Arnold Road and Public Works Operations Center fuel stations.
The TCEQ team reviewed daily and monthly transactions, interstitial monitoring and sensor reports, leak line detector readings, certificates, registrations, operator licensing, and physical infrastructure such as spill buckets, sumps, and dispenser systems. Continuous monitoring,
inspections, and recordkeeping are crucial for ensuring no harmful environmental releases.
Thank you to Environmental Compliance and Recycling Manager Stacy Ewing-Cates and Staff Assistant Kisha Williams for their meticulous attention to detail and consistent dedication toward compliance.
COLLEGE STATION RANKED AMONG AMERICA’S MOST LIVABLE CITIES
Livability has ranked College Station the No. 6 place to live in Texas and No. 34 nationally. Our community ranked among the best places in the country in education (12), cost of living (23), and public safety (26).
Livability compiles and analyzes data from thousands of cities and rank the best based on nearly 100 data points, including the local economy, cost of living, amenities, and safety.
The website story said: "A dynamic city with a strong sense of community, College Station is anchored by Texas A&M University and is all about the Aggies. The city offers excellent schools, an affordable cost of living, and a thriving job market. But there's plenty of fun with family-friendly amenities and great dining options; it's a great place to live and grow."
Community Kudos
CITIZENS PRAISE COCS EMPLOYEES
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Drury Plaza Hotel in April, Planning and Development Services earned praise for its outstanding cooperation during the land development and construction process.
The Drury regional director publicly highlighted Director Anthony Armstrong, Assistant City Engineer Erika Bridges, and Building Official Brian Binford for their exceptional work and for representing the City well with their professionalism and dedication to service.
PUBLIC WORKS
“We are thankful for the city of College Station for coming out in the middle of the night on Thursday night in Emerald Forest Subdivision and removing a 60-foot tree from the street that fell from our front yard. The city came out again today and picked up all the debris from our front yard this morning. Thank you!”
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Thank you all very much for helping our city be recognized as Forbes Best Places to Retire. And notably for being very bikeable! This is a well-deserved recognition and a reminder that great quality of life takes a village. Thank you very much again!
“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
Events
College Station City Council
RECAPS
The College Station City Council meets twice monthly at City Hall. OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
MARCH MEETINGS
MAY 8: Blog | Video
MAY 22: Blog | Video
UPCOMING MEETINGS
THURSDAY, JUNE 12 • 6 P.M.
THURSDAY, JUNE 26 • 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
cstx.gov/cip
cstx.gov/committees
cstx.gov/codeenforcement
cstx.gov/commserv
cstx.gov/hr
bcslibrary.org
cstx.gov/court NEIGHBORHOOD
cstx.gov/neighbor
cstx.gov/parks
cstx.gov/pds
cstx.gov/police
cstx.gov/publiccommunications
cstx.gov/publicworks
PARKS AND RECREATION CONTACTS
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