AUGUST 2026
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
10
BACK-TO-SCHOOL CHECKLIST: START THE SCHOOL YEAR
OFF RIGHT
A new school year is almost here! Whether you're sending kids back to class, heading to college, or welcoming a new Aggie to town, a few simple reminders can help make the transition a little smoother.
; SLOW DOWN IN SCHOOL ZONES
As students return to campus, traffic around schools increases. Help keep everyone safe by remembering to:
• Obey posted school zone speed limits.
• Watch for crossing guards, bicyclists, and children walking to school.
• Stay off your phone and avoid other distractions while driving.
• Be patient during busy morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times.
A little extra caution goes a long way toward keeping our students safe.
;
KEEP TRASH AND RECYCLING ON TRACK
Moving into a new home or apartment? Cleaning out closets before school starts? Make collection day easy by following these reminders:
• Place carts at the curb by 8 a.m. on your collection day.
• Leave at least 4 feet of clearance around your containers.
• Make sure all trash fits inside the cart with the lid completely closed.
• Set bulky items, such as furniture, out separately for bulk collection.
Need a reminder about your collection schedule? Download the College Station Curbside app for pickup reminders and service information. (cstx.gov/curbside)
; PARK RESPONSIBLY
Back-to-school traffic can make parking challenging. Help keep neighborhoods and school entrances safe by avoiding common parking violations, including:
• Blocking driveways, sidewalks, or fire hydrants.
• Parking too close to intersections or crosswalks.
• Parking on grass or landscaped areas.
• Double parking or stopping in travel lanes during school drop-off or pick-up.
Following posted signs and campus traffic patterns helps everyone get where they need to go safely.
; GET A LIBRARY CARD
The Larry J. Ringer Library is a great resource for students of all ages, offering books, study spaces, online resources, and educational programs.
Sign up for a virtual e-card online or stop by the library to receive a physical card and start exploring everything the library has to offer.
; LOOKING FOR AN AFTERSCHOOL JOB?
The City of College Station offers parttime positions that are a great fit for high school and college students. Build valuable work experience, earn extra income, and serve your community by exploring current openings at cstx.gov/careers.
; NEW TO COLLEGE STATION?
Welcome! Whether you're a new resident or just arriving for the semester, we're glad you're here.
Visit cstx.gov/newresident to learn about city services, utilities, pet licensing, recycling, and other helpful resources. You can even request a free welcome bag filled with local information.
HERE'S TO A SAFE, SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL YEAR. WELCOME BACK—AND GIG 'EM!
BUDGET RECAP AND NEXT STEPS
The City of College Station's proposed fiscal year 2027 budget reflects the City's commitment to providing reliable, highquality services while investing in the infrastructure needed to support a growing community.
The proposed $576.4 million budget includes $394.8 million for operations and maintenance and $181.6 million for capital improvements. Throughout July, the City Council reviewed the proposal during a series of budget workshops, discussing service priorities, staffing, capital projects, funding requests from outside agencies and the City's long-term financial outlook.
The budget process continued with a public hearing on July 23. The City Council is scheduled to consider the voter-approval and no-new-revenue tax rates on Aug. 13, followed by the tax rate public hearing and budget adoption on Aug. 27. The new fiscal year begins Oct. 1.
JULY 6 BUDGET INTRODUCTION
MIRACLE ON HIGHWAY 60: CSFD HOSTS EMOTIONAL PATIENT REUNION
In March, Lauren Falcone and her 11-year-old daughter were involved in a severe crash on Highway 60. While her daughter walked away with minor injuries, Lauren sustained critical injuries across her entire body — including head, chest, and abdominal trauma, internal bleeding from multiple ruptured organs, and fractures to her spine and pelvis.
Brazos County Precinct 4 Fire Chief Joe Don Warren (a former CSFD assistant chief) arrived first that day, followed quickly by crews from CSFD, Bryan Fire Department, and AirMed 12.
Lauren went into cardiac arrest four times: twice in the field, once in the emergency room, and once during surgery. Emergency surgery at St. Joseph Hospital in Bryan stabilized her internal bleeding before she was airlifted to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston. Over the following months, she
received 16 units of blood and underwent countless surgeries. By all accounts, she should not have survived.
On July 27, fully mobile and with no longterm brain injury, Lauren walked into College Station’s Fire Station 6 for a reunion with the first responders who saved her life. She joked that she now has enough pins, plates, and screws that "you wouldn’t want to be behind me in airport screening."
While many medical teams helped in her miraculous recovery, Lauren credits the immediate care on scene as the foundation of her survival, saying the emergency crews will forever be her heroes. For the first responders, seeing Lauren standing strong provided a rare moment of closure and served as a powerful reminder of the cohesive network of highly skilled responders in the Brazos Valley.
Red, White and Red,SplashWhite and Splash
COLLEGE STATION CELEBRATES INDEPENDENCE DAY
College Station celebrated Independence Day with a full day of patriotism, family fun, and community spirit. From honoring the nation's founding at the Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial to cooling off at Adamson Lagoon and ending the evening with the annual I Heart America Celebration at Wolf Pen Creek Park, thousands of residents and visitors came together to celebrate what makes our community special.
HONORING OUR NATION'S HISTORY
The day's festivities began at the Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial with a Declaration of Independence signing ceremony as part of the nationwide America 250 celebration. Guests gathered at the memorial's American Revolution site for a reading of the Declaration of Independence
before 56 community leaders signed a commemorative facsimile of the historic document, paying tribute to the original 56 signers. The ceremony reflected on the ideals of liberty, service, and unity that continue to inspire Americans nearly 250 years later.
MAKING A SPLASH
Later that evening, families headed to Adamson Lagoon for the annual Red, White and Splash celebration. More than 400 guests enjoyed swimming, yard games, and family-friendly activities before settling in for one of the area's most unique Independence Day traditions.
As darkness fell, swimmers and poolside guests watched the I Heart America fireworks display from the water, creating a memorable experience unlike any other in the Brazos Valley.
THOUSANDS CELEBRATE AT I HEART AMERICA
WATCH VIDEO
The day's festivities culminated at the annual I Heart America Celebration at Wolf Pen Creek Park, where 13,648 attendees filled the amphitheater, festival grounds, Holleman Drive, and nearby mall parking lots.
The event's popularity was reflected in statewide mobility data, with Wolf Pen Creek Park ranking as the 207th most visited location in Texas on Independence Day. Guests enjoyed live music from the Josh Abbott Band, local food vendors, patriotic activities, and an impressive fireworks finale featuring 4,111 fireworks that illuminated the night sky.
Behind the scenes, more than 50 City of College Station employees worked together to keep guests safe and comfortable throughout the evening. Staff distributed 9,600 complimentary bottles of water— more than 1,267 gallons—to help attendees beat the summer heat. The celebration also featured 2,500 pounds of ice, 2,500 sausages generously donated by Slovacek's Sausage, and 80 watermelons that helped keep the crowd refreshed.
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
Events of this scale are only possible through strong community partnerships. Special thanks to KAMU-TV, the College Station Noon Lions Club, H-E-B, Slovacek's Sausage, and BlueForge Alliance for helping make this year's celebration possible.
THANK YOU, COLLEGE STATION
This year's Independence Day celebrations once again showcased the pride, tradition, and community spirit that define College Station. Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, performed, and worked behind the scenes to create a safe, welcoming, and memorable experience.
We also extend our gratitude to City staff, first responders, vendors, volunteers, and community partners whose dedication helped make this celebration a success.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO CELEBRATING INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR!
SHARE YOUR IDEAS FOR THE FUTURE OF THE HARVEY DISTRICT
Whether you live nearby, shop, dine, work, or simply spend time in the Harvey District, your perspective matters. Your input will shape recommendations for the district’s long-term future and ensure the plan reflects the community’s needs and aspirations.
ATTEND A COMMUNITY VISIONING WORKSHOP
Because each workshop features the same activities, you only need to attend one. All four sessions will be at the Meyer Senior & Community Center, located at 2275 Dartmouth St.
General Public: These workshops welcome anyone who has a connection to the Harvey District. If you live, visit, shop, dine, work or recreate in the area, we want to hear from you.
• Wednesday, Aug. 5, 6-8 p.m.
• Thursday, Aug. 13, 2-4 p.m.
Business & Property Owners: These workshops are geared toward individuals who own property or operate a business in the Harvey District planning area.
• Monday, Aug. 10, 2-4 p.m.
• Wednesday, Aug. 12, 6-8 p.m.
You don’t need planning experience; just bring your ideas and knowledge of the district. We look forward to hearing your ideas and working together to create a vibrant vision for the future of the Harvey District.
10 TIPS TO THRIVE
IN C o l le g e S t a ti o n
Whether you're new to town or have called College Station home for years, these simple tips can help you stay informed, protect your property and be a good neighbor.
Moving to a new community comes with a learning curve, but knowing a few local tips can make settling into College Station much easier. From understanding city services to keeping your neighborhood safe, these reminders can help you make the most of living in the Heart of Aggieland.
LEAVE THE SIGNS WHERE THEY BELONG
Street and traffic signs help keep everyone safe. Removing or damaging them is a criminal offense and can create dangerous conditions for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS
A friendly introduction goes a long way. Exchanging contact information can help resolve small issues before they become bigger problems and strengthen your neighborhood.
KNOW THE RULES
Avoid unnecessary citations by becoming familiar with city ordinances, including property maintenance, parking and other common code requirements
BE MINDFUL OF NOISE
Everyone deserves a peaceful place to live. Keep music, parties and barking dogs at reasonable levels, especially during overnight hours.
REPORT PROBLEMS QUICKLY
See a pothole, damaged street sign or missed bulky item pickup? Report it through See Click Fix so it reaches the appropriate City department as quickly as possible.
BE A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER
Keep pets leashed when off your property, clean up after them and make sure they're licensed and vaccinated as required.
PROTECT YOUR HOME AND VEHICLE
Lock your doors, secure valuables and break down boxes from expensive purchases before placing them at the curb. Simple precautions can help prevent theft.
NEVER MISS COLLECTION DAY
Download the free College Station Curbside app to receive collection reminders, schedule notifications and report service issues.
PARK LEGALLY
Avoid parking violations by following posted signs and staying clear of fire hydrants, crosswalks, driveways, bike lanes and other restricted areas.
STAY CONNECTED
Follow the City on social media and sign up for updates to stay informed about events, emergencies, programs and important community news. Visit cstx.gov/NewResident for resources, helpful information and services available to College Station residents.
WHY CONSTRUCTION ZONES NEED YOUR ATTENTION !
If it seems like there are more orange cones and construction crews around College Station, you're not imagining it. As our community continues to grow, the City is investing in roads, utilities and other infrastructure projects designed to improve safety, mobility and quality of life.
While these projects bring long-term benefits, they also create temporary changes to traffic patterns. Whether you're commuting to work, heading to campus or running errands, a few extra moments of patience can help keep everyone safe.
SLOW DOWN
Reduced speed limits in construction zones aren't just suggestions. Road conditions can change quickly, lanes may narrow and workers are often only a few feet away from moving traffic. Slowing down gives you more time to react and helps protect everyone in the work zone.
STAY ALERT
Construction zones require your full attention. Put your phone away, watch for changing traffic patterns and follow signs and flaggers directing traffic. Staying focused helps prevent crashes and keeps traffic moving safely.
Every orange cone and temporary lane closure represents work that will improve the roads, utilities and infrastructure our community depends on every day. A little patience behind the wheel can make a big difference. By slowing down, staying alert and respecting work zones, you'll help protect construction workers, fellow motorists, cyclists and pedestrians while helping these important projects move forward safely.
BE PATIENT
Every construction project represents an investment in College Station's future. The crews working on these projects are improving the roads, utilities and infrastructure our community depends on every day.
PLAN AHEAD
Construction can occasionally cause delays or detours. Before heading out, consider checking your route and allowing a little extra travel time, especially during peak travel hours or when local schools and Texas A&M classes are back in session.
FIRE SAFETY STARTS ON MOVE-IN DAY
August marks a busy time in College Station as thousands of students move into apartments, rental homes and dorms for the start of the fall semester. While unpacking and getting settled are top priorities, taking a few minutes to think about fire safety can help protect you and your roommates throughout the year. Before you finish unpacking, locate the nearest exits and identify at least two ways to leave your apartment or building in an emergency. If you're living in a multi-story building, know where the stairwells are and never use an elevator during a fire.
Take a moment to test your smoke alarms. If they aren't working or are missing, notify your property manager immediately. Smoke alarms provide an early warning that can save lives, but only if they're functioning properly.
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, making kitchen safety especially important in apartments and rental homes. Never leave food cooking unattended, and keep flammable items such as paper towels, dish towels and oven mitts away from the stovetop. If a small grease fire occurs, turn off the heat and cover the pan with a lid if it is safe to do so. Never use water on a grease fire.
Electrical safety is just as important. Avoid overloading outlets or power strips, and only use extension cords as a temporary solution. Inspect phone, laptop and other electronic chargers for damage before using them, and replace any frayed or worn cords.
Take time to familiarize yourself with your building's fire safety features, including fire extinguishers, pull stations, and evacuation routes. Fire doors are designed to slow the spread of smoke and flames, so never prop them open or block hallways and exits with furniture, bicycles or personal belongings.
Finally, make sure everyone in your household knows what to do if a smoke alarm sounds. Plan to meet at a safe location outside the building and never reenter until firefighters say it's safe.
A few simple precautions at move-in can make a big difference throughout the school year. By taking fire safety seriously from day one, you can help keep yourself, your roommates and your neighbors safe.
MOVE-IN FIRE SAFETY CHECKLIST
; Test every smoke alarm.
; Locate two exits from your apartment or dorm.
; Find the nearest fire extinguisher and pull station.
; Keep exits, balconies and hallways clear.
; Never leave cooking unattended.
; Avoid overloading outlets and power strips.
; Choose an outdoor meeting place in case of an emergency.
a
The honoree may be living or deceased and does not have to be a Brazos Valley Resident Active-duty service members are also eligible. The cost is $250 per name, and the application deadline is Aug. 15. The fee covers the cost of engraving and lifetime maintenance.
New additions will be recognized at the annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11 at 5:30 p.m.
For more information, visit bvvm.org or email info@bvvm.org
SAVE WATER. SAVE ENERGY. SAVE MONEY.
Looking for ways to lower your utility bills while making your home more efficient?
The City of College Station offers rebates and free resources that can help.
UPGRADE YOUR IRRIGATION SYSTEM
A more efficient irrigation system can save water and reduce your monthly bill. College Station Utilities offers up to $500 per year in rebates when you install qualifying water-saving equipment, including:
• Smart irrigation controllers
• Rain and freeze sensors
• High-efficiency sprinkler nozzles
These upgrades help ensure your landscape gets the water it needs without wasting this valuable resource.
Learn more about irrigation rebates at forms.cstx.gov/Forms/IrrigationRebate
SAVE ENERGY AND MONEY
Whether you're replacing appliances, improving your home's efficiency or simply looking for ways to lower your electric bill, College Station Utilities offers resources to help.
CSU's energy experts can recommend ways to reduce energy use and identify rebates available for qualifying energy-efficient upgrades.
Visit cstx.gov/Energy to explore energy-saving tips, available rebates, and programs designed to help you save.
WHAT DO THEY DO: TRAFFIC ENGINEERING TEAM
Ever wonder who determines where stop signs, traffic signals, and school zone flashers are installed or how speed limits and parking regulations are set?
Behind every commute is the City of College Station's Traffic Engineering team, working to keep people moving safely and efficiently while planning for the future.
Did you know?
Traffic Engineering is responsible for:
• Traffic signals
• Stop signs
• Speed limits
• School zone flashers
• Pavement markings
• Neighborhood traffic calming
Keeping traffic flowing
As College Station continues to grow, so does the demand on our streets. Traffic engineers analyze traffic patterns, evaluate intersections, coordinate signal timing, and identify opportunities to improve traffic flow throughout the city. Their work helps reduce delays, improve safety, and make it easier for everyone to travel, whether they're driving, walking, or biking.
The team also studies existing traffic conditions and future growth to help prioritize transportation improvements. Using data from traffic counts, crash reports, and community feedback, they develop long-term strategies that support a safer and more efficient transportation network.
Slowing traffic where it matters most
Not every traffic concern is about congestion. Sometimes it's about slowing vehicles down in neighborhoods where people walk, bike, and play.
The City's Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program gives qualifying neighborhoods an opportunity to request traffic calming improvements. Depending on the location and engineering evaluation, solutions may include measures designed to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for residents, pedestrians, and cyclists. Applications are accepted annually from eligible neighborhoods interested in participating in the program.
More than just parking tickets
Traffic Engineering also oversees parking regulations throughout the city. While on-street parking is encouraged in many residential neighborhoods because it promotes accessibility and can naturally slow traffic, engineers must also balance
those benefits with public safety. On narrower streets, parking restrictions may be necessary to ensure emergency vehicles can safely access homes when every second counts.
The team also helps implement parking policies, including regulations for commercial vehicles and trailers on city streets, and works with residents to evaluate parking concerns through public meetings and community feedback. Their goal is to create parking solutions that support safe neighborhoods while meeting the needs of residents and visitors alike.
Planning for tomorrow
Transportation planning doesn't stop with today's traffic. The City is also developing a Traffic Congestion and Mobility Analysis to identify congested corridors, evaluate key intersections, and prepare for future transportation needs as College Station continues to grow. The study helps City leaders make informed, datadriven decisions about future roadway improvements and mobility projects.
UNLEASH THE FUN AT COLLEGE STATION'S DOG PARKS
Whether your dog loves chasing tennis balls, splashing in the water or making new furry friends, College Station offers plenty of places for your four-legged companion to get outside and explore.
With 56 dog-friendly parks covering nearly 1,900 acres, you and your pup have no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. While dogs are welcome in most City parks on a leash, three designated dog parks and one off-leash trail provide extra room to run, play and socialize.
Find Your Dog's Favorite Spot
University Park is a favorite for adventurous pups. Separate areas for large and small dogs provide plenty of room to play, while an agility course, wash station and wooded trail leading to a pond make it a destination for dogs that love to explore.
If you're looking for a neighborhood park, Barracks Park offers a fenced play area with shaded seating and water fountains so both pets and owners can stay comfortable during a visit.
At Steeplechase Park, dogs can burn off energy in a 1.5-acre fenced area while owners enjoy a walking loop inside the park. A wash station makes it easy to rinse muddy paws before heading home.
Looking for something different?
Head to Lick Creek Park, where Raccoon Run is the City's only designated off-leash trail. Stretching 1.7 miles through the park's natural landscape, it's perfect for dogs that enjoy hiking alongside their owners. Dogs must remain under voice control, and all other trails in the park require leashes.
Before You Go
A few simple reminders help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit:
• Dogs must remain leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
• Always clean up after your pet.
• Make sure your dog is current on rabies vaccinations and wears valid tags.
• Dogs should be well-socialized and under control at all times.
• Bring water and avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day.
Whether you're exploring a new trail or watching your dog make new friends, College Station's parks offer the perfect place to celebrate National Dog Day—or any day of the year.
For more information about dog parks and animal control ordinances, visit cstx.gov/parks and cstx.gov/animalcontrol.
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION ACHIEVES
ELITE 'Aaa' MOODY’S RATING
Moody’s Ratings has upgraded the City of College Station’s issuer and general obligation limited tax (GOLT) ratings from Aa1 to Aaa, placing it among an elite group of municipalities nationwide. The upgrade indicates a resilient local economy and exceptional, disciplined financial governance, highlighting the City’s solid fiscal condition.
The Aaa rating applies to the City’s existing debt as well as its upcoming $35.8 million Certificates of Obligation (Series 2026). Moody’s also revised the City’s financial outlook from "positive" to "stable," reflecting its expectation of continued strong financial performance.
Achieving an Aaa rating — the highest credit rating achievable — is a monumental milestone for College Station residents, business owners, and City leadership.
“The Aaa rating represents the highest level of confidence an organization can attain from an independent rating agency, an achievement the entire community should be proud of,” City Manager Bryan Woods said. “Receiving the Aaa rating is recognition of years of strong leadership, strategic management and financial discipline. It will provide significant financial benefits to our current and future taxpayers for years to come.”
Why It Matters
• Lower Borrowing Costs for Taxpayers: Just like a consumer with a perfect credit score getting the best interest rates, an Aaa-rated city secures the lowest possible borrowing costs on public bonds. This ensures that taxpayer dollars go further when funding critical infrastructure, roads, and community facilities.
• A Magnet for Economic Growth: The elite status signals to major employers, developers, and businesses that College Station is a stable, reliable, and low-risk environment for long-term investments.
• Validated Civic Trust: The rating independently confirms that the City's leadership is demonstrating the highest level of responsible stewardship of public funds, providing maximum financial security even in uncertain economic times.
How It Happened
Moody's cited the City's proven track record of strong budget management — with actual financial results consistently outpacing projections — as a primary driver for the upgrade. A disciplined approach has built a strong safety net: College Station’s available fund balance grew to 89% of revenue in FY25 and is projected to expand further with a $2 million general fund surplus in FY26.
Additionally, the presence of Texas A&M University provides a rock-solid economic foundation as a dynamic, recessionresilient anchor that offsets local economic variables and delivers steady, reliable growth that exceeds national averages.
Moody’s indicated that the City can manage its $528 million in total debt (including the new 2026 offering) and other long-term liabilities by maintaining a debt ratio of 165% of 2025 revenue, below Moody’s benchmark of 200% of revenue. Moody’s notes that the City's rapid principal
amortization (paying off debt quickly) and ample taxing headroom under its property tax cap provide a strong financial reserve to support future planned growth and borrowing.
The upgrade ensures the City remains well positioned to manage growth responsibly while maintaining a strong fiscal foundation.
About Moody’s Ratings
Moody’s Ratings is a leading global provider of credit ratings, research, and risk analysis. A subsidiary of Moody’s Corporation, the company tracks and rates debt instruments, securities, and issuers across multiple sectors worldwide, including corporate, financial, sovereign, and public finance markets. By providing independent, transparent, and forwardlooking credit assessments, Moody’s helps market participants navigate financial complexity, contribute to transparent capital markets, and invest with confidence.
WHERE TO PLAY PICKLEBALL IN CS
Serve, dink and smash! National Pickleball Day is on Aug. 8. Did you know that 2026 marks 61 years since pickleball was founded?
The game has taken College Station, and the nation, by storm and is played with paddles on a badminton court with a tennis net.
The game shares elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. It is accessible to people of many ages and abilities.
Here’s where you can play in CS:
• Anderson Park: 4 courts
• Brian Bachmann Community Park: 8 courts (bring your own net)
• Lincoln Recreation Center (indoor, varying hours, ages 16+)
of the Month
Photography by Lucero Valenzuela
Photo
Purple Martin Watch Party
FIND YOUR FLAVOR DURING VISIT
COLLEGE STATION'S FIRST-EVER RESTAURANT WEEK!
Discover some of College Station’s favorite restaurants in a whole new way during Restaurant Week Aug. 24-28.
Participating restaurants will offer special menus and prix-fixe dining options throughout the week, giving diners the opportunity to explore local flavors and enjoy unique culinary experiences.
Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to support local restaurants while experiencing the variety and creativity that make College Station’s dining scene special.
Why you'll love it:
• Special menus and exclusive pricing at participating restaurants
• An opportunity to enjoy local favorites at a great value
• A celebration of the diverse flavors and culinary talent found across College Station
As an added bonus, 10% of all menu proceeds (excluding alcohol sales) will benefit the Brazos Valley Food Bank.
BUILDING TOMORROW’S PUBLIC SAFETY HEROES
The College Station Fire and Police Departments recently joined forces to host the annual Community Action Safety Training (C.A.S.T.) Camp
The unique, collaborative program offered local youth a hands-on, frontrow seat into the world of emergency preparedness and public safety careers. Through a mix of interactive training and high-energy simulations, campers didn’t just learn about safety — they lived it. By blending fire service and law
enforcement training, campers learned how different agencies work as one seamless unit during critical incidents.
From lifesaving medical training to tactical field exercises, participants tackled a wide range of essential public safety skills:
• Emergency Preparedness: Campers learned the basics of first aid, CPR and stop the Bleed techniques and designed their own home fire escape plans.
One of the major highlights of the week was the opportunity to interact directly with specialized public safety teams. Campers watched live demonstrations and learned about the daily operations of elite units, including:
• The K-9 Team and their canine partners
• The Bomb Squad and their specialized equipment
• Motorcycle Officers and traffic safety
• Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) uncovering vital clues
• Field Operations: The group got a taste of real-world operations by practicing radio communications and receiving an introduction to handling hazardous materials (hazmat).
• Hands-On Thrills: The excitement ramped up with practical activities, including rappelling, fire hose operations, firearm safety, and executing a coordinated grid search.
The impactful week would not have been possible without the strong, ongoing partnership between CSFD and CSPD, as well as the incredible enthusiasm and support from local families. Together, our departments and community are creating an engaging environment that fosters teamwork, safety awareness, and active community involvement.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
FINANCE DIVISION RECEIVES
ELITE GFOA 'TRIPLE CROWN' AWARD
The City of College Station’s Finance Division has earned the prestigious Triple Crown Award from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for its exceptional financial reporting during Fiscal Year 2024. College Station is one of only 441 governments across the United States and Canada to receive this elite designation.
The Triple Crown recognizes governments that succeed in meeting the stringent requirements of three of GFOA’s prestigious award programs. To qualify, the Finance Division earned individual accolades for Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, Popular Annual Financial Reporting, and Distinguished Budget Presentation.
To capture the Triple Crown, a government must produce reports that go beyond basic accounting requirements, transforming complex data into transparent, highly accessible public information.
The Triple Crown designation represents a significant milestone for the finance division. Each of these programs demands rigorous transparency and a commitment to clearly communicating the city's financial story to our residents and stakeholders.
ELECTRIC OPERATORS HONORED ON
NATIONAL CONTROL ROOM WORKERS DAY
In recognition of National Control Room Workers Day, College Station Utilities recently honored its electric system operators — the dedicated professionals who work behind the scenes to keep the city’s critical infrastructure operating safely, efficiently, and reliably around the clock.
Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, these highly skilled operators monitor and manage the City's electric system in real time. Their constant oversight ensures that local homes, businesses, and essential services maintain dependable power, regardless of weather or demand.
Much like the control room operators at the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) who manage the statewide power grid, CSU’s electric system operators use specialized technical expertise and quick decision-making to balance the local system.
In addition to maintaining grid stability, they serve as a critical first point of contact during utility emergencies by:
• Monitoring real-time system conditions and coordinating planned outages.
• Receiving public and internal reports of power disruptions and water outages.
• Assessing evolving field situations dynamically.
• Dispatching emergency response personnel to restore essential services safely and quickly.
Our Electric System Operators embody the very best of our "One City, One Team" philosophy. While their work is often out of sight, it is never out of mind. Their professionalism, constant vigilance, and dedication are fundamental to the safety and quality of life in College Station. We owe them a debt of gratitude for keeping our community moving every single day.
Community Kudos
CITIZENS PRAISE CITY EMPLOYEES
CSU WATER
“Lorenzo just came out and took care of me, and I just wanted to say what a joy Lorenzo is. This is the second time he came out to help me with something, and he is delightful, very helpful, very knowledgeable, and very kind. I just wanted to thank you for him and give him kudos for being such a great guy. Thanks.”
PUBLIC WORKS DRAINAGE
“I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the outstanding assistance provided by the Public Works Department. Last Thursday afternoon, I became aware that a significant amount of debris — including a large tree trunk and numerous heavy limbs — had washed down Carters Creek and become lodged against the support structure of our aerial water main crossing near Harvey Road. This accumulation posed a substantial risk to the integrity of the waterline. After I contacted Ronnie Loper, Streets and Drainage Division Manager, Richard Ryan, Drainage Crew Leader, quickly responded to the site along with Drainage Equipment Operators Colt Helton, Justin Hoover, and Eduardo Maldonado. Richard and his crew skillfully used a track hoe and chains to remove the large tree trunk and the heaviest limbs. They then entered the creek to manually remove the remaining debris that could not be safely or effectively reached with the equipment. They remained on-site and were willing to continue working after normal business hours to ensure the job was completed safely and that the waterline was no longer at risk. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to doing the job right ensured that a potentially serious situation was resolved quickly and safely.
As a fellow City department, we are extremely grateful for the cooperation, dedication, and outstanding service demonstrated by these employees. Their prompt response and commitment to protecting critical City infrastructure are greatly appreciated and reflect the highest standards of public service.”
We deeply appreciate these employees for their dedication, professional communication, and customer service, especially over the holidays and on closed days.
NOW AVAILABLE
College Station's Annual Drinking Water Quality Report answers your questions about how the City maintains our water and showcases last year's quality testing results.
Way Back When
Crew - D-2 Class of '71
Bonfire
Stay Connected! 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
“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
Friday Night Live 14 AUG. National Senior Citizens Day: Bingo Bash 21 AUG.
Exploring History Luncheon 19 AUG. VISIT CSTX.GOV/CALENDAR TO STAY UP TO DATE ON THE LATEST CITY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS.
College Station City Council
RECAPS
OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
JULY
JULY 9: Blog | Video
JULY 23: Blog | Video
The College Station City Council meets twice monthly at City Hall.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
THURSDAY, AUG. 13, 6 P.M.
THURSDAY, AUG. 27, 6 P.M.
CAN’T MAKE IT IN PERSON?
The meetings are streamed live on Optimum Channel 19, cstx.gov/cstv19, streamed live on our YouTube Channel, 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
CITIZEN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS
CODE ENFORCEMENT / SEECLICKFIX
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
FIRE DEPARTMENT
HUMAN RESOURCES
LIBRARY
MUNICIPAL COURT
NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES
PARKS & RECREATION
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
POLICE DEPARTMENT
979.764.3690 cstx.gov/cip
979.764.3541 cstx.gov/committees
979.764.6363 cstx.gov/codeenforcement
979.764.3570 cstx.gov/pds
979.764.3625 grow.cstx.gov
979.764.3705 cstx.gov/fire
979.764.3517 cstx.gov/hr
979.209.6347 bcslibrary.org
979.764.3683 cstx.gov/court
979.764.6262 cstx.gov/neighbor
979.764.3486 cstx.gov/parks
979.764.3570 cstx.gov/pds
979.764.3600 cstx.gov/police
cstx.gov/pubcomm
PUBLIC WORKS (SOLID WASTE & RECYCLING) 979.764.3690 cstx.gov/publicworks UTILITY CUSTOMER SERVICE 979.764.3535 cstx.gov/ucs
cstx.gov/utilities
PARKS AND RECREATION CONTACTS
979.764.3486 cstx.gov/sports
cstx.gov/pools
cstx.gov/calendar
cstx.gov/cemeteries
cstx.gov/fieldstatus
cstx.gov/lickcreek
cstx.gov/parks
cstx.gov/lincolncenter
SENIOR & COMMUNITY CENTER
cstx.gov/meyercenter SOUTHWOOD COMMUNITY CENTER 979.764.6351 cstx.gov/southwood WOLF PEN CREEK PARK 979.764.3649 cstx.gov/wolfpen
