City Matters Fall 2018 Edition

City Matters

The results are in Citizen Survey

Critical Success Factors for our City

10 Things to do This Fall

Drainage and Flooding Prevention What’s next?

I am League City Local girl lands dream job at library

If you’ve been to a City event recently, you’ve probably seen the League City Love photo backdrop and accompanying swag items that ask residents to share what they love about League City using the hashtag #LCLove on social media. The most popular answer? The majority of our residents say it is the people who make League City the best place to live, work, and play.

As the City Manager, I couldn’t agree more. Even though our population is approaching 107 thousand, the people of our community strive to maintain the friendliness, customer service, and sense of belonging that only small towns are known for.

It’s people like Walter Sayes, a retired bank president who works at the Starbucks off Highway 3 and Main, not because he must, but because he wants “to brighten the day of others.” Walter is part of a new series of stories we’re doing on the residents who make our City great. We’re calling it “LC Locals.” (see page 12)

It’s people like Sheldon Freeman, a local girl who fell in love with reading while attending story time as a toddler at the Helen Hall Library. Fast forward twenty years, and Sheldon has returned home to accept a position as our new teen librarian. (page 13)

It’s people like the nearly 3,000 men and women who shared their feedback in our online, citizen survey this past summer. You can see the survey results in this edition of City Matters. (page 3)

The future of League City depends on people. Specifically, it depends on the engagement and input of people like YOU— our residents. In fact, “engaged residents” is one of eight critical success factors listed in the League City Strategic Action Plan. The plan, which was adopted by Council this past July, contains eleven initiatives that will guide my work and the work of City staff over the next three to five years. You can read more about the initiatives on page 5.

So how can YOU, as a citizen, engage with your City government and make your voice heard? The first step is to get out and vote Tuesday, November 6, and choose who you want to be Mayor and who you want to serve as council members for positions 1, 2, 6 and 7.

The City is also currently seeking volunteers for City boards, commissions, and committees, to fill vacancies and positions expiring December 31. Residents interested in volunteering

John Baumgartner City Manager

CONTACTS

League City 311

HELP HOTLINE

Have a question, concern or need assistance related to a City service?

Call 311 from your mobile or landline phone.

Monday-Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Friday: 7:30 a.m. to noon

For police or fire emergency, call 911

Citizen Request Tracker

Is there a pothole on your street that needs to be fixed? An overgrown drainage ditch that needs to be mowed? Request a service from City staff and track its progress by signing up for www.leaguecity.com/tracker.

Frequently Called Numbers

Pat Hallisey Mayor 281-910-0182

pat.hallisey@leaguecitytx.gov

Dan Becker Position 1 281-554-1028

dan.becker@leaguecitytx.gov

Hank Dugie Position 2 281-554-1028

hank.dugie@leaguecitytx.gov

Larry Millican Position 3 713-828-1312

larry.millican@leaguecitytx.gov

Todd Kinsey Position 4, Mayor Pro-Tem 832-273-9692

todd.kinsey@leaguecitytx.gov

Greg Gripon Position 5 281-850-0753

greg.gripon@leaguecitytx.gov

Keith Gross Position 6 281-554-1028

keith.gross@leaguecitytx.gov

Nick Long Position 7 281-773-8954

nick.long@leaguecitytx.gov

SOCIAL MEDIA

48% of the land in League City has yet to be developed.

When planning for future development, what would you like to see?

This past summer, League City residents were asked to answer this question, and a few others, as part of an online Citizen Survey. Over 2,700 respondents took the survey and the feedback they provided is helping to better inform City Council and staff on the needs and wants of our citizens.

What is the key issue or issues you would like to see Council and City staff address or focus on in the coming year?

Please rank the following items in order of importance, with 1 being the most important and 8 being the least important.

1. Improve traffic flow and mobility in the City

2. Secure water supply for City’s growth and development

3. Develop a long-term financial plan to reduce debt burden on residential property owners

4. Maintain emergency response times

5. Implement enhanced development standards that address aesthetics, flood risk, planning, LEED

6. Develop more parks and recreational facilities

7. Identify and target potential investors and partners to create entertainment venues in the City

8. Create opportunities for development along Clear Creek and enhance public access to the creek

What long-term goals (5 plus years) should Council and City staff be focused on?

Are you aware that the average homeowner in League City pays $3.90 a day for the use of City services, facilities, and to support City programs and infrastructure?

28% 72% NO YES

When planning for future development, what would like to see?

THE ROAD AHEAD

Current Traffic and Roadway Projects

Calder Road Improvements: This joint project with Galveston County will convert Calder Road from a rural, open-ditch roadway to a concrete street with curb and gutter, two travel lanes, and one center turn lane. Estimated completion date: Open to two-way traffic at the beginning of 2019; substantial completion in late March 2019.

St. Christopher Avenue

Reconstruction: This project replaces the existing asphalt roadway with a concrete curb and gutter roadway and includes drainage improvements so stormwater more easily flows into Robinson Bayou. Estimated completion date: December 2018

I-45 Widening and Intersection

Improvement: This TxDOT project includes widening the interstate and improving the intersections at FM 518, FM 517, SH 96, and FM 646 with additional lanes, right turn lanes, and sidewalks. (Also see No. 11.) Estimated completion date: 2021 for portion south of FM 518 to north of FM 517. 2022 for portion north of FM 517 to south of FM 1764.

Asphalt Rehabilitation: The project replaces approximately 16,500 feet of street asphalt on Arkansas Avenue, Dallas Street, Kentucky Avenue, Maryland Ave, Mayhaw Street, Oklahoma Avenue, Olive Street, Peach Street, Perkins Avenue, Virginia Avenue, and Waco Avenue. Estimated completion date: March 2019

North Kansas Reconstruction: This project replaces the current aging asphalt roadway from 4th street through to Clear Creek. In addition to an improved roadway, the project transfers drainage underground and adds inlets to ditches which will reduce standing water and increase drainage efficiency. Estimated completion date: September 2018

Upcoming Traffic and Roadway Projects

Vance Street Rehabilitation: This project consists of a mill and asphalt overlay of 680 linear feet of Vance Street from the end of the cul-de-sac to Walker Street. The proposed pavement improvements will include a three-inch asphalt with base repair in select areas. Construction anticipated to begin: December 2018

Ervin Connector: This project will consist of design and construction of Ervin from Calder Road to the new Hobbs Road extension. The roadway will provide improved accessibility for residents of the Sedona subdivision, as well as other neighboring communities and future development in the area. Construction anticipated to begin: May 2019

North Landing Boulevard Extension: Currently, League City has only one north/south route out of the City on the west side of I-45. The Landing Boulevard northern extension would reduce congestion along FM 518 in the Hobbs/Lafayette area. When completed, the extension will carry over 60,000 vehicles per day. Construction anticipated to begin: March 2021

Dickinson Avenue Construction: This project includes the reconstruction of existing Dickinson Avenue from a twolane asphalt roadway to a two-lane concrete roadway from E. Walker Street to SH 646 along with drainage improvements. Construction anticipated to begin: January 2019

Park Avenue Improvements: This project is for the refurbishment of Park Avenue in conjunction with the Downtown Revitalization initiative and includes replacing the existing asphalt roadway with a concrete curb and gutter roadway, drainage improvements, and additional/improved sidewalks. Construction anticipated to begin: Early 2019

FM 646: This TxDOT project will reconfigure FM 646 so I-45 passes over it. As part of the project, U-turns, bi-directional access roads, new traffic signals and sidewalks will be added. Construction anticipated to begin: Late 2018/Early 2019 with bridge removal scheduled for January 2019.

Additional mobility projects include:

•Intersection improvements on League City Parkway at West Walker Street, I-45, and Highway 3

•Reconstruction of Turner/Butler continuum from Calder Road to League City Parkway

•Reconstruction of Grissom Road

•Reconstruction of Calder Road southbound from Ervin Street to Cross Colony Drive

•Annual asphalt street rehabilitation and sidewalk repair (20,000 linear feet of each per year)

*Start and completion dates are subject to change based on weather and other mitigating factors.

STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN

STRATEGIC ACTION PLAN

In the spring of 2018, Council, the Mayor, and senior City staff members collaborated to develop a Strategic Action Plan for the City of League City. The framework of the plan consists of a vision statement for the City’s future, eight critical success factors that are necessary for success, and eleven strategic initiatives to guide the work of City staff over the next three to five years.

In the spring of 2018, Council, the Mayor, and City Management collaborated to develop a Strategic Action Plan for the City of League City. The framework of the plan consists of a vision statement for the City’s future, eight critical success factors that are necessary for success, and eleven strategic initiatives to guide the work of City staff over the next three to five years.

Vision Statement: League City — the best place to live, work, and play.

Vision Statement: League City — the best place to live, work, and play.

Critical Success Factors Critical Success Factors

Develop and Maintain our Infrastructure

The City of League City carefully plans and maintains infrastructure (water, mobility, drainage) that supports the future needs of the City. City facilities are regularly updated and replaced to meet growing community needs. The City sustains and maintains a regulatory compliant water supply for all residential and commercial customers and works to improve drainage to minimize the adverse effects of extreme weather.

Initiative 1: Secure water supply for buildout and implement Water Master Plan

Initiative 2: Continue to refine and utilize the Master Mobility Plan so as to improve traffic flow

Financially Sustainable

The City of League City is guided by sound fiscal policies that support the City’s reputation for excellence in budgeting and financial reporting. An excellent bond rating ensures that the City is able to construct infrastructure improvements at the most financially advantageous rates.

Initiative 3: Develop a long-term financial plan to reduce tax and debt burden on residential property owners

Safe and Desirable Community

League City is known as a safe and desirable community. Quality amenities support the lifestyle of City residents who continue to move here for excellent schools and recreational resources. Residents and businesses know they can count on the City to ensure a safe community through its outstanding, community-oriented Police department, responsive Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and comprehensive emergency services during times of extreme weather.

Initiative 4: Maintain emergency response times

Quality Community Amenities

League City parks, library, and animal control systems keep pace with the needs of a growing community. Walking/biking paths connect neighborhoods with regional parks and attractions, and the City has appropriate rules to ensure Homeowner Association Parks are kept up-to-date.

Initiative 5: Focus on acquisition of new land and development of existing land for facilities, recreation programming, and trails as outlined in the Parks Master Plan

Initiative 6: Explore and create opportunities for development along Clear Creek, as well as utilization of detention, retention, and drainage easements

Initiative 7: Build a new animal shelter, as approved by Council, with a focus on community involvement through volunteerism, outreach, and education

Trained, Committed, and Valued Workforce

League City employees are valued and recognized for the role they play in providing services to the community. The City has a competitive total compensation philosophy and recognizes employees who live out the organizational values every day. The City has developed a robust learning environment that supports certifications, training, and career and leadership development. The organization and community are well-served by an organization that anticipates and plans for orderly succession as employees retire from the City.

Initiative 8: Enhance the employee recognition program that includes incentivizing staff innovation and recognizing “S.E.R.V.I.C.E.” values

Engaged Residents

League City residents recognize their role in establishing a thriving community and staying engaged with their City government. The City has developed a robust communication and engagement plan that encourages participation from all demographics of the community.

Initiative 9: Develop a Citizen Survey

Economic Development and Tourism

League City has worked hard to develop a diverse tax base and is a growing center for commercial businesses and offices. People from outside League City look for opportunities to visit the quality amenities and attractions that make League City more than a bedroom community, employment center, and shopping destination.

Initiative 10: Continue to identify and target potential investors and partners to create entertainment venues by offering a fast-track process and economic development incentives

Quality-Built Environment

The City plans for a quality-built environment as available land is developed and existing properties are redeveloped. Regulations support attractive development that decreases the volumetric effect of storms and flooding on homes and buildings.

Initiative 11: Implement comprehensive enhanced development standards that address aesthetics, flood risk, site planning, and energy (LEED)

A Brighter Future

LED street lights to provide brighter lights, save money

League City is partnering with CenterPoint Energy to switch the City’s yellowish, high-pressure sodium street lights to bluish, light-emitting diodes, or LEDs. Over the coming months, nearly 30 percent of League City street lights will be converted to the more energy-efficient LED lights.

The agreement with CenterPoint to replace the lights, which was approved by City Council in August, will come at NO COST to the City or taxpayers. In fact, the LEDs are predicted to save the City money over time because they last longer, require less maintenance, and use about 50 percent less energy. The City is hoping to reach a similar agreement with Texas-New Mexico Power Company, TNMP, which operates the remaining 70 percent of street lights throughout League City.

LEDs perform better than normal bulbs because of their ability to direct light to an intended area and because they produce a higher quality white light, which allows pedestrians and drivers to see more with greater detail. In addition to the safety benefits, LEDs have a positive impact on the environment by lowering greenhouse gas emissions by five percent.

Numerous cities, including most recently Houston, have switched to LED streetlights. Once League City’s conversion is complete, it is estimated the City will save about $10,000 per year.

How much water do you use?

League City now has on online Water Usage Tracker that allows residents to easily monitor the amount of water they use 24 hours a day. By creating an account, users can set alerts, compare their usage versus rainfall, download their data, and compare usage with previous billing periods. Alerts can be programmed through the tracker and will notify residents if their water usage has exceeded their average daily usage.

To set up a free account go to www. leaguecity.com/watertracker. You will need to provide an email address, water billing account number, and street number.

For additional information or assistance with creating an account, call the League City Utility Billing Department at 281-554-1335 or email UBService@ leaguecitytx.gov.

On August 14, City Council approved the issuance of $11.02 million in Certificates of Obligations. This debt issue will fund various projects for the City, including the construction of Fire Station No. 6 and a new animal shelter.

Fire Station No. 6 will be built at 7505 South Shore Boulevard just south of Hwy. 96 in front of the water tower in the Hidden Lakes subdivision. The three-story station, which was designed by Natex Architects, will have three bays and living quarters for up to four firefighters and two paramedics. The new station will

New Fire Station No. 6

serve the growing population in the southeast side of the City and is part of the City’s goal to maintain or decrease response times. Groundbreaking will take place later this year.

The new animal shelter will be built on Walker Street, adjacent to the League City Public Safety building. The new building will not only serve as a comfortable and desirable place for residents to adopt an animal, but will include space for educational opportunities and community events and gatherings. The shelter is expected to be completed in December 2019.

Take Part in Guinness World Record Attempt October 12

League City will attempt to break the Guinness World Records™ title for the largest Stop, Drop, and Roll event on Friday, October 12 at Clear Creek ISD Challenger Columbia Stadium. The attempt will take place on the football field around 9:30 p.m. after the Clear Springs and Clear Brook High School homecoming game.

League City residents of all ages are invited to attend and those who participate will receive a t-shirt. Representatives from Guinness World Records™ will be at the event to officiate and will announce that evening if the record attempt is successful. The event, which is being coordinated by the League City Fire Department and Fire Marshal’s Office, is part of National Fire Prevention Week.

Chance Call Leads to K-9 Companion

Police Chief Gary Ratliff wasn’t looking to add another dog to his family, but a chance meeting with Bentley, an Australian Shepard, during a routine call at the City’s Animal Shelter had him opening his home and heart to a new pet. At first, the Chief agreed to become a foster parent to Bentley, until a forever home could be found. But one thing led to another, and now Bentley has a permanent spot in the Ratliff household.

League City Pets Alive needs more foster families so adult animals like Bentley, who are used to living in a house or apartment, can avoid being placed in a kennel or cage while waiting to be adopted. Foster cat and dog parents save hundreds of lives each year by opening their homes and hearts to help adult, injured, abused or under-socialized animals make the transition to a permanent home.

To learn more about foster cat and dog parenting, visit www.leaguecity.com/lcpetsalive.

LCCU Now Accepting Applications

League City Citizen University is now accepting applications for the fall semester. The 10-week course is designed to familiarize residents and business owners with the purpose, process, and structure of the City’s government and equip citizens to become active participants in municipal operations. LCCU will begin October 4 and run every Thursday night from 7-9 p.m. through December 13. There will be no class on Thursday, November 22.

Participants are expected to attend all classes and can miss no more than one class.

Registration is open on a first-come, firstserved basis for any League City resident or business owner who is 18 years of age or older and not currently holding position as an elected official or running for office.

A background check will be required for admission to the program since the course will include a tour of the Public Safety Building.

Contact the League City Communications Department at (281) 554-1019 or email Nora.Garcia@leaguecitytx.gov to register.

National Night Out October 2

Join the League City Police Department on October 2 for National Night Out, a yearly nationwide initiative that promotes policecommunity partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer. HOAs, Neighborhood Watch groups, and management companies coordinating NNO activities are asked to register their event at www.lcpd.com by Friday, September 21. Late registrations will not be accepted.

A representative from LCPD will attempt to visit all registered locations. Goody bags will NOT be provided this year, however, National Night Out merchandise can be ordered at natw.org.

For additional information, please contact LCPD Officer Christy Galyean at Christy.Galyean@ leaguecitytx.gov

Debt Service Police

Other Water and Wastewater

Public Works

Administration Parks and facilities

Fire Special revenue funds

DRAINAGE

FY 2019 BUDGET

On September 11, 2018, the League City Council is scheduled to adopt the Fiscal Year 2019 Budget. The FY 2019 budget aligns to the eight critical success factors and eleven initiatives in the City’s Strategic Action Plan, (page 5) and with the input of citizens, including those who responded to the June 2018 Citizen Survey. (page 3) The budget focuses on minimizing the increase to the tax rate while maintaining the City’s quality services and providing for the expansion of infrastructure to accommodate League City’s growing population.

Water and Wastewater Reinvestment Police

Public Works

Parks and other buildings

Downtown revitalization

Fire

After Hurricane Harvey, the City of League City hired several engineering firms to conduct six drainage studies in nine different neighborhoods throughout the City. The studies are nearing completion and final reports will provide an analysis of the flooding and drainage issues in each neighborhood along with suggested solutions to mitigate future flooding.

In August, City Council began hosting public workshops to hear the results for each of the six studies. The workshops will continue in the coming months along with several planned community meetings to share the final reports with residents who live in the affected neighborhoods. (To view the results of each study and for upcoming community meeting times and locations visit www. leaguecity.com/drainagestudies)

A preliminary cost analysis of the mitigation solutions presented in the six studies is between $60 and $80 million. This cost does not include flooding and drainage mitigation for neighborhoods directly impacted by Clear Creek and Dickinson Bayou. A regional approach involving Harris and Galveston Counties and a large portion of the Bay Area region is necessary to study, analyze, and determine the best solution or solutions to lower water elevation along the creek and bayou during flooding events. City staff and Council have begun this process and are collaborating with the Clear Creek Watershed and Dickinson Bayou Watershed steering committees, the Bay Area

Houston Economic Partnership, and mayors and staff from cities throughout Galveston and Harris Counties.

Moving forward, the City has budgeted $500,000 in Fiscal Year 2019 to begin Harvey-related flooding and mitigation work identified in the six studies and another $500,000 for work on a regional solution to Clear Creek and Dickinson Bayou. The money budgeted will also be used to begin the process of securing state and federal grants to assist with the overall cost. Regardless, a long-term solution will be needed to fund flood risk reduction projects throughout League City. City Council and staff will be analyzing and studying possible funding options over the months ahead. Stay tuned for more information.

Early Voting Oct. 22 - Nov. 2

•CCISD Administration Building, 2425 E. Main St.

•North County Annex, 174 Calder Road

*Residents may also vote at any of the locations listed on Galveston County’s website at www.galvestonvotes.org.

Election Day Voting Tuesday, Nov 6

Locations within League City include:

•Bauerschlag Elementary, 2051 W. League City Parkway

•CCISD Administration Building, 2425 E. Main Street

•Regal Estates, 500 Enterprise Avenue

•Hometown Heroes Park, 1001 E. League City Parkway

•League City Civic Center, 400 W. Walker Street

•League City Intermediate School, 2588 Webster Street

•North County Annex, 174 Calder Road

*If needed, a run-off election date has been set for December 18.

ELECTION RACES

*At the time of publication, candidates had till August 28 to withdraw from the race.

Mayor Pat Hallisey Sebastian Lofaro

Hank Dugie

Council Position 2

Council Position 1

Andy Mann Traci Jacobs

Council Position 6

Council Position 7

Nick Long Ange Mertens

Chad Tressler Silvio P. Vincenzo

Chris Gross

Meet your #LCLocal

League City has a new social media campaign to recognize what makes our City great—the people who live here and call League City home. #LCLocal will feature local residents sharing a little about themselves and what they love most about our City.

In addition to social media, #LCLocal photos and profiles will be included in the new online edition of City Matters launching next month. So get connected, follow us on social media and, learn more about your neighbors.

If you know someone who should be featured as an #LCLocal, contact us at communications@leaguecitytx.gov

WALTER SYERS

#LCLocal Resident & LEAGUE CITY’S FAVORITE BARISTA

If you’ve ever stopped by the League City Starbucks on Main Street and Highway 3 for a cup of morning coffee, chances are you were greeted with a smile and a compliment from Walter Syers. The 73-year old barista can whip up a tasty latte in minutes, but it’s his warm personality and sweet disposition that keep people coming back day after day.

Syers, a U.S. Marine veteran and former bank president, was looking for something to do when he retired that would keep him active and allow him to interact with all kinds of people. So, in 2006 he accepted a part time job at Starbucks. Since day one he’s made it his mission to brighten the day of anyone he encounters.

“I like complimenting people and just being nice to them,” said Syers. “They may only stop in for a few minutes, but if I can make them smile and feel good, it’s worth it.”

From wishing customers a “blessed day” to giving out animal stickers to children in the backseat, Syer’s kind gestures and exceptional customer service recently became a hot topic on social media when the League City Communications Department produced a video on him. Within a matter of days, the video reached over 68,000 views on Facebook. In addition, more than 500 people commented about their interactions with Syers at the drive-thru window and shared how his positive attitude has personally impacted them.

Syers says he is grateful and humbled by the appreciation. He says it’s simple: he loves the people of League City and he loves his job.

Read more about Walter and other #LCLocals at www.Leaguecity.com/LCLocals

Sheldon Freeman has been visiting the Helen Hall Library ever since she was a toddler. Fast-forward almost 20 years and now she’s the Teen Services Librarian! Get to know her story and how she decided to change her career path to get her dream job.

How did you become a Teen Services Librarian?

I’ve been working at the library a little over seven years. I started as a page, that’s someone who comes in and shelves the materials. This was a parttime job during my senior year of high school, but I ended up loving it so much that I changed my entire career path so I could get my master’s degree in Library Sciences.

You are very familiar with the library, when did you first come here?

I started coming here when I was about two and my mom would take me to story time. I’ve been here ever since then. My favorite event even now is the Holiday Open House. I also still have my certificates from the library’s summer reading programs that I participated in throughout the years.

What makes you so passionate about your job?

Growing up in League City is a big part of my life and coming to the library is also a big part of my life, so I feel devoted to the community to help give back a little bit so that all these kids will have the same experience that I did.

What do you consider interesting about your job?

Being a librarian is so much more than what people think it is. So many people think we’re just going to help you find books and then send you on your way, or that we just like to read. We do like to read, but there’s so much more to our job than that. We help people build skills, create community connections between people, and we just help them overall through life from preschool to 100 years-old!

Looking back now, did you ever imagine that you’d become a librarian?

I never imagined it, I don’t know why I didn’t but I should have!

When I was little, I had my personal library at home and I would have my brother check out books and then I would fine him when they were overdue (laughs). But what I didn’t know is that there’s a whole field around it.

Any books you’d recommend?

My favorite books are the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, but it’s so difficult to narrow down all the books I would recommend! If I had to, the top three books would be Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell, The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman, and Maus by Art Spiegelman.

EVENTS FOR TEENS Did you know?

MONDAYS

5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Sept. 24, Oct. 29 and Nov. 26

Game On: Nintendo Switch, Jenga, Apples to Apples and more (6th to 12th graders)

5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 10 and Oct. 8

Snark Tank: Snarky Movie Review (6th to 12th graders)

TUESDAYS

5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 4 and 18, Oct. 2 and 16, and Nov. 6 and 20

Teen Anime Club: Watch and discuss good anime shows (13 to 18 years old only)

WEDNESDAYS

7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Sept. 5 and 19, Oct. 3 and 17, and Nov. 7 and 21

Game On: Nintendo Switch, Jenga, Apples to Apples and more (6th to 12th graders)

FRIDAY

6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Nov. 16

Teen Late Night: Sardines (13 to 18 years old only)

SATURDAY

1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Oct. 6

Star Wars Read Day (K to 12th graders)

PARTICIPATION PRIZES PROGRAM

Do you love visiting the library? If so, you could win prizes for it! Every time you sign in for a Teen Program, you’ll have a chance to win the Program Participation Prize of the month. Please note: Winners are randomly selected at the end of each month and will be notified via email. Winners who do not respond within 24 hours will forfeit their prize and another winner will be drawn.

For a complete listing of programs, events, and activities at the Helen Hall Library, visit leaguecitylibrary.org.

Holiday Open House

Thursday, Nov. 29 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Santa arrives at 5 p.m.

Teen Advisory will provide crafts for the children during the event. Immediately following the Open House is the Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Come join us by the Stelly Red Cedar for some caroling.

Helen Hall Library is the only library in Galveston County that is open on Sunday.

Beer and a Book

Join the City’s Happy Hour Book Club at 5 p.m. at Craft 96 Draught House and Kitchen on Sept. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1, and Dec. 6.

Get Healthy

Stop by the Community Health Fair at Hometown Heroes from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 15 for flu shots, health screenings, healthy cooking sessions, and even kayak safety sessions in the pool.

Date Night

Drop the kids off at Hometown Heroes for Kids Night at the Rec from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sept. 14, Oct. 12, and Nov. 9. $15 for residents. $22.50 for non-residents. Ages 6 to 12 years.

Get Spooked

Attend the League City Fire Department’s Haunted House on October 27 starting at 6:30 p.m. at Fire Station No. 4 located at 175 W. Bay Area Blvd. The event is recommended for ages 12 and up.

Appreciate a Veteran

Join League City and AMOCO

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO THIS FALL

Get Close with Nature

Stop by the Dr. Ned and Fay Dudney Clear Creek Nature Center from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sept. 8, Oct. 13, and Nov. 10 to enjoy a free, familyfriendly outdoor activity.

Carve a Pumpkin

Stop by the annual League City Harvest Festival on Saturday, Oct. 20 to carve a pumpkin, enjoy a hay ride, and do some holiday shopping. The event at League Park is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free.

Download Our App

Look up at the Stars

Make Your Voice Heard

Make sure to get out and vote on Tuesday. Nov. 6. League City has several council positions on the ballot.

Federal Credit Union on Sunday, Nov. 11 at noon at the pavilion at the Chester L. Davis Sportsplex for a picnic lunch and ceremony to honor our military veterans. 15

League City|City Matters

Get out your phone and download the “Visit Bay Area Texas” app for a complete listing of things to do in League City and throughout the Bay Area as well as important news and information happening in League City.

League City has partnered with the Houston Astronomical Society to offer Astronomy in the Park the last weekend of every month in September, October, and November from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Rustic Oaks Park.

SEPTEMBER

Community Health Fair

Saturday, September 15

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hometown Heroes Park, 1001 E. League City Parkway

The City’s annual Health Fair has been expanded to include the entire family. Come on out and get free flu shots, kayak safety sessions in the pool, archery lessons, healthy cooking and meal prep recipes, and much more.

OCTOBER

Harvest Festival

Saturday, October 20

9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

League Park, 512 2nd Street

Kick off your holiday shopping at the artisan and craft booths while the kids enjoy fun activities including hay rides, pumpkin carving, and a costume contest. Food will be available to purchase from food trucks. The event is free and open to the public.

Holiday Open House

Thursday, November 29

5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Helen Hall Library, 100 W. Walker Street

Come join us for some caroling, crafts, and a special visit from Santa at 5 p.m. The City’s tree lighting ceremony in front of the library will immediately follow. The event is free and open to the public

Holiday in the Park

Friday, November 30 – Sunday, December 1

Friday: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

League Park, 512 2nd Street

One of League City’s oldest holiday traditions, Holiday in the Park features more than 60 vendors, three parades, live performances, and plenty of holiday spirit under the magnificent oak trees in historic League Park.

DECEMBER

Holiday in the Park Grand Night Parade

Saturday, December 1

6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

League Park, 512 2nd Street

Mark your calendars for Saturday night, December 1, for the Holiday in the Park Grand Night Parade presented by The League City Proud Organization. This year’s parade theme is “The Spirit of Christmas.” Come kick off the holiday season by participating in this exciting annual event.

Breakfast With Santa

Saturday, December 8

8:30 p.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Fire Department Haunted House

Saturday, October 27

6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Fire Station No. 4, 175 W. Bay Area Blvd.

Recommended for kids 12 and up. The event is free but donations to the League City Volunteer Fire Department are accepted.

NOVEMBER

Veterans Day Lunch and Ceremony

Sunday, November 11

12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Red Pavilion at Chester L. Davis Sportsplex, 1251 League City Parkway

Veterans and their families will be treated to a picnic lunch under the pavilion, courtesy of AMOCO Federal Credit, prior to a 1 p.m. ceremony to honor the men and women from League City who have served our country.

Hometown Heroes Park, 1001 E. League City Parkway

Join us for a yummy breakfast and fun activities. $10 for residents. $15 for non-residents. Registration begins November 7 on a first come, first-served basis at www.leaguecity.com/parks.

Do you have your copy?

The Fall 2018 edition of the Beyond the Oaks, League City’s parks, recreation, and library guide, is now out. Pick up your free copy at Hometown Heroes Park and other city buildings or download it at www.leagucity.com/beyondtheoaks.

New Youth Sports Program Now Available!

League City is bringing the fastest growing sport in America, pickleball, to boys and girls ages 10-18 years. The sport combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Sign-up for the fall season Oct. 23- Dec. 11 at www. teamsideline.com/leaguecity. $50 for residents and $75 for non-residents.

WITH

Patti F. League City East

Thank you so much for keeping us informed.

Heorg Ann R. Marina Bay Park

Thank LCPD for a job well done. You make us proud.....

Social Media Feed

Karen C. Meadow Bend

I wanted to say thank you for taking such good care of our neighborhood with our trash collection and recycling. And for always looking out for us.

Kimberlee

Koester

I want to thank you for taking prompt action on the sidewalk on 518 at the middle school!

April

Zaidi

The most phenomenal sunset and rainbow over @LeagueCityTX. Nature is spectacular.

Kyle

@LeagueCityTX thanks for putting on a great firework show and event! Even though the weather wasn’t ideal my family had a great time!

Melissa Del Cid

I enjoyed attending League City’s Town Hall meeting and discussing our “Strategic Action Plan.” I also had the privilege of meeting and chatting with our Mayor, Pat Hallisey. I encourage all young people to be active members in your community, and voice what’s in your heart to your city officials. #LeagueCity City Of League City Government

Sparkle Anderson

Yesterday, our #Kroger Associates hand delivered 310 pies to a @ LeagueCityTX fire station. All of the area first responders received pies and they were all so grateful and appreciative! #krogercares #pies #publicservice