Games of Texas
The 2025 Texas Amateur Athletic Federation’s Summer Games of Texas brought more than 7,100 athletes from across the state to College Station and Bryan from July 31-Aug. 3, generating an estimated $6.5 million for the local economy.
The Olympic-style festival featured nine sports at venues across both cities and Texas A&M University.
About 10,312 coaches, family members, and friends accompanied the athletes, filling restaurants and hotels throughout the four-day event. The cities of College Station and Bryan, along with Texas A&M, have hosted the Games eight times, including five times since 2014.
The Games will return from July 30Aug. 2, 2026.
2025 Games of Texas Photos: College Station • Bryan View the Photo Album>>
PARTICIPATION BREAKDOWN
• Archery: 37 (Live Oak Archery)
• Boxing: 240 (Hilton College Station Hotel & Conference Center)
• Esports: 2 (Legends Event Center)
• Golf: 15 (The City Course at Phillips Event Center)
• Pickleball: 79 (Legends Event Center)
• Swimming: 1,736 (Bryan Aquatic Center)
• Tennis: 119 (George P. Mitchell Tennis Center at Texas A&M)
• Track and Field: 4,762 (E.B. Cushing Stadium at Texas A&M)
• Ultimate Frisbee: 120 (Bryan Regional Athletic Complex)
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
• 13 state records were broken in swimming and track and field.
• 206 tennis matches were played over three days.
• The lowest 18-hole round of golf was a pair of two-over-par 74s by Ramiro Betancourt and Edgar Nino in the boys 16-18 division.
• The lowest overall golf score was 79-73=153 by Betancourt in the boys 16-18 division.
• 107 boxing bouts were contested, with 16 females participating.
• 10,860 pounds of ice were used in College Station.
On behalf of the cities of College Station and Bryan, we extend a special thank you to volunteers, TAAF liaisons, and commissioners. The success of the event reflects your dedication. We sincerely appreciate your time, energy, and enthusiastic support.
SPONSORS
COLLEGE STATION: Pluckers Wing Bar, Bleyl Engineering, Bubba’s 33, RV Station, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, Physicians Premier ER.
BRYAN: H-E-B, Fast Signs, KS College Station Tent & Event, Whataburger, Chick-fil-A, Papa John’s, Big Dawg Barbecue, Raising Cane’s, Fazoli’s, TXB, Walmart.
9/11
Remembrance Ceremony
September 11, 5:30 p.m.
Veterans Park and Athletic Complex
This year marks the 24th anniversary of the infamous terrorist attacks on our country. Commemorating that day is especially significant in communities such as College Station, where military connections are deep.
The Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial Board’s free public 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony is Sept. 11 at 5:30 p.m. at the War on Terror site of Veterans Park and Athletic Complex
The War on Terror site includes a steel relic from one of the World Trade Center towers and life-sized bronze statues representing a police officer, firefighter, and special operations soldier.
5 SIMPLE WAYS TO GET SMARTER ABOUT CONSERVING WATER WHEN IRRIGATING YOUR LANDSCAPE
Here are five simple ways you can help conserve our precious water resources and maybe even save a few dollars in the process.
1. Find Your Controller’s OFF Position
1.
2. FIND YOUR CONTROLLER’S OFF POSITION GET WATERSMART RECOMMENDATIONS
Irrigation is meant to supplement rainfall, not the other way around. When we have abundant rain, there’s no need for regular irrigation. If it rains an inch or more in a week, do your lawn and your bank account a favor by turning your sprinklers off.
How often should you water? How much rain has fallen in your neighborhood? That vital information is at your fingertips through Brazos Valley WaterSmart, a free online resource that tracks rainfall totals and provides weather-based watering recommendations.
A network of digital rain gauges collects rainfall, temperature, and evapotranspiration data, converting it into fact-based guidance. If you’ve received WaterSmart recommendations, you have likely run your system very little this summer, thanks to plentiful and well-timed rain in May, June, and the first half of July.
Rain sensors are small, inexpensive devices that collect rainwater. After a certain amount of rain, the sensor interrupts the next cycle on your irrigation controller. They are especially helpful when your system has run once during the week, but it rains later in the week. Rain sensors are required on controllers installed after 2009.
4.
Irrigating with an old clock-based timer wastes water by irrigating when it’s not needed. For example, watering on Wednesday, despite it raining on Monday and Tuesday. As much as half the water we use outdoors is wasted due to inefficient irrigation systems.
If your controller doesn’t accept a rain sensor, or run a test cycle, or loses programming after a power outage, it might be time to replace it. When you do, look for the WaterSense label WaterSense irrigation controllers are independently verified to meet specific criteria for efficiency and performance, including the ability to adjust watering based on weather patterns.
College Station water customers are also eligible for a 50% rebate on the purchase of WaterSenselabeled controllers and other efficient irrigation products.
Some irrigation systems use 4,000 gallons or more per cycle, so adding a few extra cycles or watering days can quickly wreck your water bill.
College Station Water Services offers free landscape irrigation check-ups to help customers learn how to water their landscapes efficiently. Those who benefit most have an in-ground irrigation system and use more than 20,000 gallons per month for consecutive months or more than 25,000 gallons in a single month on an average-sized residential lot.
During an irrigation checkup, a Water Services representative will demonstrate how to read your meter, document your system settings, identify efficiency issues, and recommend a watering schedule with estimated savings. We’ve conducted more than 1,100 checkups to help our customers manage water bills as we manage our peak seasonal water demand.
GET A SMART CONTROLLER
GET READY TO FLOCK TO SOME FALL FUN AS A FULL SLATE OF BIRDING ADVENTURES TAKES FLIGHT.
As a certified Bird City Texas community through Texas Parks and Wildlife and Audubon Texas, College Station enthusiastically supports bird conservation and education efforts that connect people to nature.
College Station Parks and Recreation is offering a new series of free birding classes to introduce community members to the joys of bird-watching and encourage deeper bonds with the birds of the Brazos Valley.
DISCOVER THE SECRETS OF BIRD-WATCHING IN COLLEGE STATION WITH OUR FREE CLASSES THIS FALL
Birding is for everyone, and even small steps toward appreciating local wildlife can help preserve the region’s natural beauty.
The program welcomes beginners while offering seasoned birders fresh opportunities to explore different park facilities.
Classes will be led by John Mims, a Texas Master Naturalist and owner of Wild Birds Unlimited in Kingwood. Mims is known for his approachable, engaging teaching style and thorough knowledge of birds and backyard habitats.
INTRODUCTION
TO THE JOY OF BIRD FEEDING
Wednesday, Sept. 17 • 10–11 a.m.
Lincoln Recreation Center
Discover the basics of feeding native birds, including tips for selecting feeders, seed types, and how to attract a variety of species to your backyard.
BLUEBIRD LUNCH AND LEARN
Wednesday, Nov. 5 • 12–1 p.m.
Gary Halter Nature Center
Bring a sack lunch and learn to create the perfect backyard habitat for bluebirds. Topics include proper housing, feeder placement, and tips to encourage nesting.
THE CHRISTMAS BIRD
Tuesday, Dec. 9 • 10–11 a.m.
Meyer Senior & Community Center
Explore why the northern cardinal is such a popular symbol of the holiday season, and how you can attract the vibrant bird to your yard all winter.
Classes are open to all ages. To reserve a spot, email lbrown@cstx.gov.
CSFD WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
View the Photo Album>>
On July 23, the College Station Fire Department held its annual ceremony to swear in our newest classified members, promote existing members, and welcome new civilian members. The event honored a total of 26 individuals.
The department has hired 19 classified members over the past year to fill vacancies and as part of the first hiring phase for Fire Station No. 7, which is set to open next year. The department has also hired two non-classified members to fill vacancies created through attrition. Five members were sworn into newly promoted positions, including paramedic II, battalion chief, and assistant chief.
The highlight of the event is always the memories created when family members pin their badges on for the first time. The department is honored to have such an outstanding group of new employees who will undoubtedly provide exceptional service to the community.
UNLOCKING TRANSPORTATION
IN THE BRAZOS VALLEY: BVCOG’S 2025 GUIDE
THE USE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION REDUCES TRAFFIC CONGESTION, AIR POLLUTION, AND PROVIDES MORE INCLUSIVE MOBILITY FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES.
Navigating the alternative transportation options in our community just got easier thanks to the Brazos Valley Council of Governments (BVCOG).
The 2025 Transportation Resource Guide is now available, offering a comprehensive look at regional transit options, funding sources, and planning efforts without the need for a personal vehicle.
BVCOG’s resource guide empowers residents, especially seniors, people with disabilities, and rural populations to access critical services like healthcare, education, shopping, and recreation. It also supports regional growth through efficient transit planning, with a focus on identifying and filling service gaps.
The free guide includes resources for area alternative transportation options including buses, shuttles, taxi services, and app-based transportation services.
Your one-stop resource for enjoying mobility and connection in our region:
SURVEY RESULTS REVEAL COLLEGE STATION RESIDENTS’ OVERALL SATISFACTION AND SENSE OF SECURITY
Check out the results from our city-wide survey conducted earlier this year. Over 418 residents shared that College Station is a clean, safe, well-run City.
COLLEGE STATION SETS THE STANDARD
In a benchmark comparison, College Station outperformed nearly every Texas and U.S. city in key service areas, ranking higher in 21 of 23 categories nationally and 22 of 23 statewide.
This means you’re getting top-tier city services, from public safety to parks to infrastructure, at a level most communities across the country don’t experience.
A GREAT PLACE TO CALL HOME
84% of residents rate College Station as an excellent or good place to live, and 83% say it’s a great place to raise a family. More than 8 in 10 would recommend living here. That’s hometown pride backed by data.
RESIDENTS FEEL SAFE – DAY AND NIGHT
Over 99% of residents feel safe during the day, and nearly 9 in 10 feel safe at night, a strong reflection of our community’s sense of security.
Even better? Fewer residents now believe crime is increasing, showing growing confidence in our public safety efforts.
CITY SERVICES YOU CAN COUNT ON
The value of services you receive for your tax dollars is rated 22 points higher than the national average. College Station is delivering services that our citizens expect and deserve.
• 3 out of 4 rate the overall quality of city services as excellent or good
• 8 out of 10 rate the city’s customer service as excellent or good
• 89% are satisfied with trash & recycling
• 86% are satisfied with wastewater service
• 84% are satisfied with water service
• 3 out of 4 say electric service is excellent or good
PUBLIC SAFETY EARNS HIGH MARKS
Our Police Department earned an 86% excellent/good rating, 42 points higher than the state average. And our Fire Department led all services with a 93% approval rating.
These ratings reflect the strong trust our community places in the dedicated professionals who help keep College Station safe every day.
City leaders also acknowledge that we have many areas that need improvement, making that feedback even more valuable than the feel-good stuff.
Read More
Make Your System More Efficient — and Get Up to $500 Back Per Year! The City of College Station is offering rebates for residents who upgrade their irrigation systems with water-saving technology. That means more efficient watering, a healthier yard, and real savings on your water bill.
Eligible Upgrades Include:
• Smart irrigation controllers (WaterSense-labeled)
• Rain, freeze, or soil moisture sensors
• High-efficiency nozzles and sprinkler heads
Why Apply?
• Lower your water use
• Improve your landscape’s health
• Up to $500/year back per residential account
Questions?
College Station Utilities offers rebates to electric customers who conserve energy.
Some thermostats allow you to connect remotely from your smartphone, saving energy and money! Customers with an eligible thermostat can receive a $30 rebate.
Customers who purchase and install a new central air conditioning unit with a SEER rating of 16 or higher, air-to-air heat pumps, or geothermal heat pumps are eligible for an $800 rebate.
For more details, a list of eligible products, and a rebate application, visit our website or call us today!
4 WAYS YOU CAN PRACTICE BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR
As the beloved Mister Rogers famously said, “It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood, a beautiful day for a neighbor. Would you be mine? Could you be mine?”
National Good Neighbor Day, is celebrated on Sept. 28 and is an ideal time to connect with neighbors you know and may not know. Being a good neighbor helps build solid relationships and makes a tremendous difference in the overall dynamic of our community. Here are four easy ways to get started:
INTRODUCE YOURSELF 1.
Simply introducing yourself and your household to neighborhood newcomers makes them feel welcome. Meeting new people can sometimes feel overwhelming, but a straightforward “Howdy” gives new residents an immediate sense of belonging.
Hosting a National Night Out party on Tuesday, Oct. 7, can also help newcomers meet their neighbors. The annual event promotes strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live and work.
We never expect bad things to happen, especially in our homes and neighborhoods, but good neighbors can lend a helping hand in emergencies. It’s always a good idea to provide trusted neighbors with your contact information if something happens while you’re away.
Consider getting involved in your neighborhood or homeowners’ association if one is available. It’s a fantastic way to meet neighbors, make friends, and make your neighborhood a better place to live.
City and neighborhood-related updates are emailed to you weekly when you subscribe to Neighborhood News, our e-newsletter. It provides essential information about city events and programs and previews city council and planning and zoning commission meetings.
For more neighborhood resources or to request a free welcome bag filled with helpful information about neighborhood living, contact Neighborhood Services at 979-764-6262 or NeighborhoodServices@cstx.gov.
of the Month
Photography by Lucero Valenzuela
Photo
ARTS TRANSFORMS G. HYSMITH SKATE PARK
G. Hysmith Skate Park has a new splash of color, thanks to Art Reaching Teens (A.R.T.) for Life. Created by teens in juvenile services, the hands-on, artist-mentored initiative gives youth a foundation for making better life choices and an opportunity to give back to the community through public art. The project was led by The Arts Center and Brazos County Juvenile Services, in collaboration with the Parks and Recreation Department and the Purple Turtle Art Studio. View the Photo Album
CELEBRATING INNOVATION:
WORLD ENGINEERS DAY IS SEPT. 15
Every year on Sept. 15, we honor the brilliant minds shaping our city—our engineers.
World Engineers Day celebrates the often unseen work that keeps our communities running, from roads and parks to water and electricity.
Engineers are problem-solvers, innovators, and builders. They design systems and structures that make life safer, more efficient, and sustainable.
Here in College Station, our engineers make a tangible impact across city operations, improving infrastructure, utilities, and public services every day.
Planning and Development Services ensures our city grows safely and sustainably.
• Anthony Armstrong – Planning and Development Services Director
• Carol Cotter – City Engineer
• Cole Gabelman – Graduate Engineer 1
• David Vaughn – Development Services Engineering Program Specialist
• Gillian Sitler – Graduate Engineer 1
• Lindsey Pressler – Graduate Engineer 2
• Lucas Harper- Assistant City Engineer
Capital Projects oversees key improvements and the five-year Capital Plan.
• Susan Monnat – Sr. Project Manager
• Casey Rhodes – Project Manager II
• Melissa Thomas - Project Manager II
• Raquel Gonzales - Project Manager II
Water Utility delivers clean, reliable water to homes and businesses.
• Alan Gibbs – Water Services Assistant Director
• Stephen A. Maldonado Jr. – Water Services Assistant Director
• Ramiro Martinez- Engineering Operations Manager
• Kyleigh Harrell– Graduate Engineer 2
• Emily Lopez– Graduate Engineer 2
Electric Utility maintains a resilient power grid and advances energy efficiency.
• Glenn Gavit- Electric Utility Director
• Patrick Brawner-Electric Engineer & Design Superintendent
• Jacob Ary – Graduate Engineer 1
• Christopher Diaz– Graduate Engineer 1
Public Works designs and builds roads, parks, and facilities.
• Emily Fisher – Public Works Director
• Randell Smith- Senior Engineer 2
• DeAnna Ordonez- Graduate Engineer 2
Together, these professionals make College Station stronger, smarter, and more connected. Let’s celebrate their vital role in our city.
CITY MOURNS THE LOSS OF FORMER FIRE CHIEF
The City of College Station extends its deep sorrow and condolences to the family and friends of former CSFD Fire Chief Douglas W. Landua, 81, who passed away last month. Landua served as the City’s fire chief from 1973-90, the longest tenure in the department’s history.
In 2015, Landua was interviewed as part of the Heritage Programs Oral History Project.
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
COMMITTEE, BOARD, & COMMISSIONS 101
OCTOBER 14 | 6 P.M. APPLICATIONS OPEN UNTIL DECEMBER 28 City Hall, Bush 4141
Thinking about serving on a College Station Committee, Board, or Commission? Join us for Committee, Board, and Commissions 101, a comprehensive seminar designed to give you an inside look at what it means to serve on one of the city's many meeting bodies.
Our goal is to help you better understand the requirements, duties, and limitations of these positions, the role of city staff, how these meeting bodies help with the important issues facing our city, and answer any questions you may have.
SIGN UP
Available Now
WE ARE HIRING
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.
WHAT DO THEY DO?
LARRY J. RINGER LIBRARY
Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a local historian, a curious student, or simply seeking a welcoming space to gather and learn, the Larry J. Ringer Library continues to serve College Station and the greater Brazos Valley in more ways than ever.
In 1986, the cities of Bryan and College Station signed an inter-local agreement for Bryan to operate a branch library in College Station. That branch opened its doors in 1987, and by 1998, it moved into its current home. Today, Larry J. Ringer Library is a cornerstone of the Bryan + College Station Library System, a growing, forwardthinking library network that continues to expand its reach and impact.
With a dedicated staff, ever-expanding resources, and commitment to both in-person and virtual service, Ringer Library is much more than a place to check out books, it’s a vibrant part of our community.
So, what makes the Ringer Library stand out? Dedicated staff members are working hard to expand book and periodical collections, improve customer service, add new educational programs, enhance historical and genealogy offerings, and increase access to reference materials and databases. It’s all part of their mission to improve service and foster a culture of lifelong learning.
IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL ACCESS
The library is open:
Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
Friday–Saturday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday: 1:30–5:30 p.m.
Prefer contact-free service? Ringer Library offers curbside pickup Mon.–Fri. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Learn More
And for night owls or remote learners, 24/7 online access to eBooks, databases, college and career resources, and more is available anytime with a library card.
CELEBRATE LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH
September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month, and this year’s theme is One Card, Endless Possibilities.
Apply for your library card online or in person to take full advantage of everything the Bryan + College Station Library System has to offer.
Apply Now
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS & LOCAL HISTORY
From historical documents to rare archives, the Carnegie History Center (part of the system) houses a wide array of special collections. Through a partnership with Texas Archival
Resources Online (TARO), users can access digital finding aids that help locate items within the system and at archives across Texas.
Learn More
EVENTS FOR ALL AGES
Whether you’re interested in author talks, crafting classes, book clubs, or local history, there’s always something happening at the library. Popular programs include the Exploring History Luncheon, where attendees dive into fascinating local and regional topics.
Learn More
RESERVE A SPACE
Looking for a quiet place to study or to host a group meeting? Ringer Library offers one large meeting room, two conference rooms, and five private study spaces.
Reserve Now
Thanks to funding from the cities of Bryan and College Station, as well as support from federal, state, and local grants and generous donations from the Friends of the Library, Ringer Library continues to engage, enlighten, empower, and inform our community.
Stop by this month—or visit virtually— and see what makes our local library so much more than books.
Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from Sept.15- Oct.15, and is a time to celebrate and recognize the stories, contributions, and rich histories of the American Latinx community.
El mes de la Herencia Hispana se celebra anualmente del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre para celebrar y reconocer las contribuciones de la comunidad latina estadounidense.
Celebrate by joining the local dancing community for a lively evening of bachata and salsa. Whether you're an experienced dancer or new to the floor, our dance host will help you find your rhythm.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 27 • 7-10 P.M.
SOUTHWOOD COMMUNITY CENTER
Admission is free, and registration is not required.
For more information, call 979-764-6351.
Looking to spruce up your wardrobe?
Check out the gift shop at the College Station Visitor Center and take home some College Station swag!
TUESDAY, OCT. 7 | ACROSS COLLEGE
STATION NEIGHBORHOODS
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT BRINGS CS RESIDENTS AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TOGETHER FOR SAFER NEIGHBORHOODS
Each fall, communities across the country come together on the first Tuesday in October to take a united stand against crime through National Night Out, a nationwide initiative that promotes strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
Here in College Station, National Night Out (NNO) is more than just an event — it’s an opportunity to build meaningful connections between residents and first responders while fostering a greater sense of safety, unity, and community pride.
National Night Out brings residents and law enforcement together for block parties, cookouts, and other
activities on the first Tuesday of October each fall to promote safer, more connected neighborhoods and strengthen police-community relationships.
Members of the College Station Police Department will be out and about visiting registered events to share valuable crime prevention tips, answer questions, and strengthen relationships with those they serve. You may even get a special visit from the College Station Fire Department and get an up-close look at emergency vehicles and equipment!
Want to get involved?
If you're interested in hosting a National Night Out gathering in your neighborhood, be sure to register your event by Thursday, Oct. 3. Whether you live in an apartment complex or a single-family neighborhood, check in with your property manager or homeowner/ neighborhood association to coordinate your efforts.
REGISTER YOUR NNO EVENT
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
GAVIT NAMED COLLEGE STATION’S ELECTRIC UTILITY DIRECTOR
Glenn Gavit has been named the director of the City of College Station’s electric utility. Gavit has served as interim director since Timothy Crabb retired in May.
“Glenn has been an incredible addition to CSU and the City’s management team,” Woods said.
“We’re fortunate to have someone in our organization with his knowledge, skills, and drive. I’m excited to see what he’ll do in this new leadership role as CSU’s electric director.”
A native of Corpus Christi, Gavit received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Texas A&M University-Kingsville and a bachelor’s in physics and mathematics from Texas Lutheran.
2ND QUARTER STAR AWARD RECIPIENTS RECOGNIZED AT CITY HALL
We recognized our 2nd Quarter Star Award recipients with a luncheon on Thursday at City Hall. These individuals contribute in significant ways to the city’s success.
Congratulations to all on the welldeserved recognition!
• Brendon Conkel (Public Works)
• Steven Sunderman (Municipal Court)
• Benjamin Haugen (Water Services)
• Jacob Shaw (Police)
• Ron Benavidez (Fire)
• Josh Carrera (Fire)
• Megan Tennill (IT)
• Debra Matthews (Fiscal Services)
• Joelene Tomecek (Public Comm.)
• Christine Leal (P&D)
• Kari Williamson (Parks & Recreation)
• Uriel Mendez (Utility CS)
• Eric Chapman (Economic Dev.)
• Charles Bleeker (Electric)
WASTEWATER OPERATOR PRAISED AFTER QUICK RESPONSE TO CO-WORKER’S DISTRESS
When a fellow wastewater plant operator showed signs of heat-related illness and went down during a recent shift at the Carters Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, Michael Nash didn’t hesitate to take charge.
Michael instantly recognized the situation’s seriousness and instructed the ailing co-worker to lie on the ground. He calmly gave directions to bystanders, instructing one to retrieve a wet rag, another to get ice packs, and a third to call 911. He elevated the operator’s feet to improve circulation, cooled him with the wet rags, and then placed the ice packs under his arms to cool the circulating blood.
Michael stayed with the operator, checking vitals and offering reassurance, until he was transported to an emergency care facility. He also provided essential details to the 911 dispatcher and EMTs, ensuring a smooth and efficient response. Thanks to Michael’s quick thinking and steady presence – and the able assistance of his co-workers – the operator received timely care and recovered. His actions are a tremendous example of teamwork, preparedness, and looking out for one another.
JUDGE SPILLANE'S ARTICLE
ABOUT
RESTORATIVE YOGA FEATURED IN MAGAZINE
An article titled "The Hardest Pose: How Restorative Yoga Makes Me a Restorative Judge" by Municipal Court Judge Ed Spillane was published in OMYoga magazine in August.
The Hardest Pose: How Restorative Yoga Makes Me a Restorative Judge
RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS
SALES TAX AUDIT RESULTS IN ZERO TAXES DUE, THANKS TO FINANCE, UCS EMPLOYEES
Financial Reporting and Utility Customer Service received exceptional news from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts this week - the City of College Station’s recent sales tax audit resulted in zero taxes due, a first in our modern history. The audit, covering Jan. 1, 2021, through June 30, 2024, is particularly significant as it marks the first audit since the implementation of the new utility billing system.
The letter from the Comptroller’s Office commended the City for its “diligent and successful efforts to comply with applicable Texas law.” It noted that these efforts help ensure every tax dollar goes further toward essential public services. Achieving a zero-balance finding is a rare accomplishment in municipal finance and speaks to the accuracy, compliance, and dedication of our teams. The result reflects countless hours of careful work by over 20 Fiscal Services employees.
Together, they ensure that the City is compliant with state laws. Their collaboration and attention to detail set a high standard for operational excellence and fiscal responsibility. The outcome is a testament to what can be achieved when departments work together toward a common goal of transparency, compliance, and stewardship of public resources.
23 FIREFIGHTERS
COMPLETE
VEHICLE EXTRICATION COURSE
The College Station Fire Department recently had 23 members complete a vehicle extrication course. The hybrid course was conducted from June 5-Aug. 12 and combined online learning with hands-on instruction.
Training focused on key concepts, including overall scene safety during vehicle accidents, fundamentals of tools and equipment, vehicle stabilization, and a range of extrication techniques. The final day was scenario-based, centered around an exercise with obstructedaccess extrication. One drill simulated a limited access vehicle pileup, where crews had to work from the top of a vehicle wedged against other cars or objects, testing techniques and adaptability.
We extend our sincere appreciation to BDS for again hosting the class. The ongoing partnership has been invaluable as they have supported CSFD in past training and real-world responses. In addition to providing and preparing vehicles for our exercises, BDS brings heavy rescue capabilities that exceed our inhouse equipment. They are a trusted resource we can call upon when an incident requires specialized tools or expertise, and they have always responded with professionalism and readiness.
We also want to recognize our instructors, whose passion for the craft, depth of knowledge, and hands-on experience made the course a success. They brought a balance of technique and practical teaching, creating an environment where learning was challenging and supportive. Their patience, clear instruction, and commitment to each firefighter's growth ensured that every participant came away more confident and capable in their extrication skills.
Student surveys are in progress and will be shared soon. We also commend the strong work by captains Lauren Nolen and Tommy Tharp, and senior firefighters Zachary Hendrix and Russell Trainham.
Community Kudos
CITIZENS PRAISE COCS EMPLOYEES
PUBLIC WORKS
"Hats off to BPI and the City of College Station for the great work they are doing in resurfacing our streets. Thank you!"
CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
"Barbara Moore is an amazing asset to our community....thank you so much"
PARKS AND RECREATION
"The Games of Texas Opening Ceremony fireworks were AWESOME! Thank you."
"We love this city... so happy the Lord led us here."
G. HYSMITH SKATEPARK ART UNVEILING
“Well, that is just beautiful all around! They did excellent work, and the community showed them they are part of College Station.”
COLLEGE STATION IS MORE THAN A TOWN, IT’S HOME
There’s something truly special about College Station. It’s not just the streets or the skyline it’s the love that lives here. A love that shows up quietly, constantly, and in ways that make this place feel like home.
Love here doesn’t always look like grand gestures. It’s the smile from a stranger at H-E-B. It’s the neighbor who checks in on you just because. It’s the way we hold the door, lend a hand, or pause long enough to ask, “How are you?” and really mean it.
In this town, love shows up in how we support each other through hard times. Whether it’s a storm or a personal struggle, people here don’t wait to be asked they show up, with food, with help, with heart. That kind of love, the kind that’s quiet but steady, is what gives this community its strength.
But love isn’t just found in the tough times. It’s in the everyday. It’s in sidewalk hellos, tailgate laughter, and the familiar faces that make this town feel like family.
We’re also blessed with leaders who reflect that same love. Our mayor, leads with compassion and commitment. And to our police and fire departments thank you. Your service, your courage, and your care are powerful reminders that love is also protection, sacrifice, and showing up, every single day.
So today, wherever you are wherever you go let’s celebrate that ever-present love. Let’s see it, honor it, and keep passing it on in words, in actions, and in the way we live together.
Because when love is this constant, this rooted, it doesn’t just shape a town it shapes lives. And it’s this love that makes College Station not just a town, but a home.”
“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
Check out our Blog!
College Station City Council
RECAPS
The College Station City Council meets twice monthly at City Hall. OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
JULY MEETINGS
AUG. 14: Blog | Video
AUG. 28: Blog | Video
UPCOMING MEETINGS
THURSDAY, SEPT. 11 • 6 P.M.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 25 • 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.
Stay Connected!
Keep up with city events, programs, emergencies, notices, and more by following us on social media. We'd love to he ar from you, too!
/CityofCollegeStation
@CityOfCollegeStation
@CityofCS
City of College Station
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION CONTACTS
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
CITIZEN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS
CODE ENFORCEMENT / SEECLICKFIX
COMMUNITY SERVICES
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
979.764.3690 cstx.gov/cip
979.764.3541 cstx.gov/committees
979.764.6363 cstx.gov/codeenforcement
979.764.3778 cstx.gov/commserv
979.764.3625 grow.cstx.gov FIRE DEPARTMENT 979.764.3705 cstx.gov/fire
HUMAN RESOURCES
979.764.3517 cstx.gov/hr LIBRARY
MUNICIPAL COURT
NEIGHBORHOOD
WORKS (SOLID WASTE & RECYCLING)
979.209.6347 bcslibrary.org
979.764.3683 cstx.gov/court
cstx.gov/neighbor
cstx.gov/parks
cstx.gov/pds
cstx.gov/police
cstx.gov/publiccommunications
cstx.gov/publicworks
PARKS AND RECREATION CONTACTS
cstx.gov/meyercenter
