SPRING 2022
City Matters
Traffic and Mobility
Upcoming Projects That Impact You
League City’s 60th Anniversary
Celebrating our incorporation and milestones
As Seen on TV Meet League City’s Busby Family
Sign Up Now for the A-MAY-ZING Adventure!
Your Guide to Summer Fun
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Dear neighbors, It’s a great time to be a League City resident. Whether you’ve lived here for a long time, or just moved here recently, I’m grateful you’ve chosen to be a part of this vibrant community. With over 116,000 people calling League City home, we are continuing to take a proactive approach in planning for the future. Recently, we conducted a citizen survey to get feedback about our City services, resident priorities, and input on how we can improve our community. Out of those results, League City rated above the state and U.S. average in the overall quality of government services (see page 18). While League City continues to be a fantastic place to live and is growing quickly, there is always room for improvement. I’m happy to say we are making significant progress on several traffic and mobility projects that directly impact you (see pages 3 and 4). Our city has come a long way and I am proud to see what a great community we have created throughout the years. Believe it or not, May 14 will mark League City’s 60th year of incorporation, and as part of this major milestone, we are taking a look back at the year 1962 to reminisce on our history and the year that started it all (see page 5). Ahead of our 60th milestone, I recently met with the former mayors of League City—as well as the family members of those who have passed—over breakfast. We discussed the past and present of our great city, as well as the countless possibilities for our future. Of course, this momentous anniversary calls for a celebration, and I encourage you to join me in our upcoming citywide “League City A-MAY-ZING Adventure” on May 14, hosted by our departments, local businesses, and community organizations. Teams of four can sign up to compete in a scavenger, clue, and challenge-based quest throughout League City to discover the past, present, and future of our wonderful community. We will have different categories in which you can participate, including family, adult, non-profit, HOA, business, and Super 60. See page 6 for more information on how to register your team.
From left to right: Johnnie Arolfo Jr. (son of League City’s first mayor), Mayor Pat Hallisey, and Angelo Arolfo (brother of Johnnie Arolfo). Our very own City Manager, John Baumgartner, was recently recognized as a Public Official of the Year (see page 18) and the Helen Hall Library earned the Achievement of Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Director’s Association. These accolades speak highly of our city as a whole and how our staff strives to go above and beyond what’s expected to make League City the very best. Speaking of our outstanding staff, National Public Works Week is celebrated from May 15–21. While our Public Works department isn’t always in the limelight, they play an integral role as City first responders, ready to serve our community around the clock. Read more about their behind-the-scenes role and some of the things they do day in and day out to keep our City running on pages 15 and 16. Lastly, I hope you take advantage of all the exciting events we have prepared for you and your family this summer. Mark your calendars for White Linen Night; the Red, White, and Blue Fun Run (see page 13); and check out the full list of summer programs from our Library Services and Parks and Recreation departments (see page 14). Thank you for making League City an exceptional place to live. Have a great summer!
All the milestones we’ve reached in the past 60 years would not be possible without the people who work and live in our city. Our employees work tirelessly to ensure we have a strong infrastructure and provide exceptional services for our residents. 1 League City|City Matters
Pat Hallisey League City Mayor
CONTACTS
CITY COUNCIL Have a question, concern or need assistance related to a City service?
LEAGUE CITY
311 HELP HOTLINE
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 leaguecity.com/tracker.
Frequently Called Numbers Animal Care and Adoption Center
281-554-1377
Building Department 281-554-1429 City Hall 281-554-1000 Code Compliance 281-554-1480 Facility Rental 281-554-1193 Fire Department (non-emergency)
281-554-1465
Fire Marshal 281-554-1290 Helen Hall Library 281-554-1111 Municipal Court 281-554-1060 Parks and Recreation 281-554-1180 Planning and Development
281-554-1080
Police Department (non-emergency)
281-332-2566
Pat Hallisey Mayor 281-910-0182 pat.hallisey@leaguecitytx.gov Andy Mann Position 1 281-299-6356 andy.mann@leaguecitytx.gov Hank Dugie Position 2 281-554-1028 hank.dugie@leaguecitytx.gov Larry Millican Position 3 713-828-1312 larry.millican@leaguecitytx.gov John Bowen Position 4 409-204-8974 john.bowen@leaguecitytx.gov Justin Hicks Position 5 409-204-8944 justin.hicks@leaguecitytx.gov Chad Tressler Position 6 409-218-2916 chad.tressler@leaguecityx.gov Nick Long Position 7 281-773-8954 nick.long@leaguecitytx.gov
SOCIAL MEDIA
Public Works 281-554-1346 Streets, Stormwater, and Traffic
281-554-1086
Utility Billing 281-554-1335 Wastewater 281-554-1320 Water Production 281-554-1041
City Matters|League City 2
NEW TRAFFIC SIGNAL SOFTWARE SYSTEM A randomly sampled survey of League City residents in the fall of 2021 found that traffic and mobility is their number-one concern. League City leaders have been working on implementing solutions to ease congestion and improve safety. One of these solutions was recently launched. Learn more about the new traffic signal software that’s being implemented throughout the city.
Traffic Lights: Intelligent Automation
Specialized adaptive software has been installed and activated at 16 intersections on FM 518 (Corridor 1 on the map) between Maple Leaf Dr. and Iowa Ave. This Artificial Intelligence system behaves like a 24/7 traffic signal timing engineer. It assesses real-time traffic flow and adjusts traffic signals to improve efficiency. “Traffic congestion is always a challenge in a growing community,” said David Tickell, Public Works Manager for Streets, Stormwater, and Traffic. “This new software will adapt with our growth and optimize traffic signal timing on a daily basis. It’s an important addition to League City’s long-term mobility plan.” “I believe that when the traffic light management system is fully implemented, the movement of vehicular traffic will be the best it’s ever been on the major corridors in League City.”
How it Works Real-Time Traffic Signal Optimization The system collects traffic data every second of the day. When it detects an abnormal traffic pattern (due to weather, an accident, large event, etc.) it will make real-time traffic light adjustments to improve flow and ease congestion. Automated “Future-Proof” Signal Timing As the system learns traffic patterns over time, it maximizes efficiency. Typically, a city will manually time and recalibrate their traffic lights every few years. Intelligent automation is “future proof,” meaning that it continuously learns and suggests better daily signal coordination timing.
-League City Councilmember Larry Millican
Legend Corridor #1
518
Corridor #2 Corridor #3 528
270
Corridor 4 Future #3
5
Future #4
Benefits of Intelligent Traffic Signal Automation
646
518
•Eases traffic congestion •Reduces fuel consumption •Adapts to growing population •Saves on costly future traffic signal studies •Records traffic count data 24/7 and makes real-time adjustments 3 League City|City Matters
96 517
Traffic Signal Software Activation Timeline By the end of Fiscal Year 2022, Corridor 2 will be activated. Corridors 3 and 4 will activate in Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024, respectively. 517
TxDOT I-45 Widening Project to Be Completed This Year After years of construction, the I-45 widening project impacting exits in the League City area is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2022, according to TxDOT officials. Weather permitting, the segment between FM 518 and FM 517 will be wrapping up in late summer/early fall, and the NASA Parkway to FM 518 portion is scheduled to be done before the end of the year. The $99.2 million project will widen the main lanes of I-45 from six to ten lanes, including an HOV lane in both directions, as well as lengthening the northbound and southbound frontage road bridges over Clear Creek.
League City Mobility Improvement Projects Slated to Begin Construction This Year Grissom Road Reconstruction Starting in April, the existing two-lane asphalt roadway from Abigail Lane to the West NASA Road bridge will be replaced with a four-lane divided concrete roadway. The project also includes pedestrian sidewalks, street drainage and outfall improvements, and the installation of 5,000 feet of 12-inch waterline from the City’s north booster station to west NASA Road.
League City Parkway Improvements League City Parkway at Landing Boulevard, Magnolia Meadow Lane, and at West Bay Area Boulevard will be getting traffic signals and intersection improvements in 2022. An eastbound right turn lane is also planned at the intersection of League City Parkway and Magnolia Meadow Lane. Construction is expected to begin in the summer, when nearby Clear Creek ISD schools are not in session.
Crews have cleared trees off the acquired right-of-way land along Grissom Road and CenterPoint is relocating power poles in anticipation of construction beginning in April.
Calder Road at FM 517 Intersection Improvements Construction is scheduled to begin this summer to widen Calder Road to provide two southbound lanes on the approach to the FM 517 intersection. The widening will be done within the existing Calder Road right-of-way to provide a southbound right turn lane from Calder to westbound FM 517.
146
Turner/Butler Reconstruction Phase II On average, streets have a projected life expectancy of 40 to 50 years and approximately 15% of League City’s streets are more than 30 years old. Phase II of the Turner/Butler Reconstruction project will include reconstruction of Turner Street from Hobbs to Butler Road and the reconstruction of Butler Road from Turner Street to south of Sedona Drive. Both stretches of roadway will be replaced with 38-foot-wide reinforced concrete curb and gutter pavement. Construction is expected to begin this fall and will likely be done in two phases.
In January, intersection improvements were completed and a traffic signal was activated at the intersection of League City Parkway and Brittany Lakes Drive/Fennigan Lane. This is the first in a series of traffic light signals planned along the League City Parkway corridor to accommodate future growth on the west side of League City.
Did You Know?
Each year, League City sets aside money as part of its annual infrastructure reinvestment program to rehabilitate streets and sidewalks. In 2021:
56,970 square feet of concrete roadway panel was replaced 25,502 linear feet of asphalt streets were repaved 2,090 feet of curbs were replaced 17,118 linear feet of sidewalks were replaced City Matters|League City Matters|League CityCity 8 4
Ground broke for the construction of the Houston Astrodome on Jan. 3, 1962.
A LOOK BACK AT 1962
The year was 1962. It was the time of Jell-O molds, beehive hairdos, and the Space Race. JFK was president and the Cuban Missile Crisis had everyone on edge. Spiderman made his comic book debut, and the Beatles rocked the music scene with their first single, “Love Me Do.” It was also the year that a small town called “League City” was officially incorporated with the State of Texas. May 14 marks exactly 60 years since League City was incorporated. As we celebrate how far we’ve come, we’re taking a look back at where it all began and what life was like in League City and across the nation in the 1960s.
John Glenn becomes the first American to orbit the earth on Feb. 20, 1962 as part of Project Mercury.
The foundation of NASA’s Mission Control Center is laid at Johnson Space Center in 1962.
Cost of a Gallon of Milk: $0.35 Cost of a Gallon of Gas: $0.31
I-45 as seen in the early 1960s.
Then and Now
•Population •Average new home price •Police force •City employees 5 League City|City Matters
1960s League City 2,655 $15,000 3 officers 1 (planning engineer)
Johnnie Arolfo serves as League City’s first mayor from 1962–1977.
2022 League City 116,834 $475,000 131 officers 657 people West Side Story wins the Academy Award for Best Picture on April 9, 1962.
L E A G U E
C I T Y
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH OUR DIAMOND TITLE SPONSOR:
A -MAY-ZIN G
ADVENTURE S A T U R D A Y
M A Y
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SIGN UP NOW AT Leaguecity.com/Adventure
•FORM A TEAM •HUNT FOR CLUES •WIN GREAT PRIZES •FUN FOR ALL! A QUEST THROUGH LEAGUE CITY TO DISCOVER THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE OF OUR COMMUNITY! The adventure begins at League Park at 8 a.m. and ends with a finish line party for everyone in League City from 12 to 4 p.m. at Big League Dreams.
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City Matters|League City 6
WHAT’S IN A NAME? Ask someone the origin of League City’s name and they’re likely to tell you it’s related to a European unit of measurement, our community’s love for baseball, or even our proximity to the water—as in the Jules Verne novel, “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea.” But none J.C. League of those explanations come close to the truth. League City is named after John Charles (J.C.) League, a wealthy Galveston businessman who never lived in our community but was instrumental in helping build it from the ground up.
Honoring Our History
As part of League City’s 60th anniversary milestone in 2022, the City has commissioned an artist to create a bronze statue of J.C. League. Professional sculptor Lori Betz—who owns a foundry in Porter, Texas—has created bronze sculptures for numerous cities, including the Allen Brothers sculpture in front of Houston City Hall. Betz has been working since the fall of 2021 to create the massive piece, which when completed will be placed at League Park—the land League donated to our community over 100 years ago. From historic photos and research surrounding League and his family, to the clothing and fashion of the period in which he lived, the development and creation of the sculpture has been a team effort involving Betz, League City’s history librarian, members of the League City Historical Society, and local artists who serve on the Keep League City Beautiful Citizen Committee. The statue, which is part of League City’s new Public Art Initiative, will be unveiled in the coming months. Stay tuned for more details on League City’s website and Facebook page.
In the early 1890s, J.C. League purchased a large portion of land along the east side of the Galveston, Houston, and Henderson Railroad tracks, which today are located near Highway 3. He then began to establish a community by dividing and selling lots of his land. He also donated portions for a school, a church, and a park. The farming and ranching community west of the tracks was known as Butler’s Ranch, after George Washington (G.W ) Butler, a cattle rancher who moved his family from Louisiana to Texas in the 1850s. As more families—mainly famers—settled around Butler’s Ranch, that community was renamed Clear Creek. In 1893, League named his community on the east side of the railroad tracks after himself. Residents of Clear Creek, on the west side of the tracks, were not happy. For the next nine years, the post office was moved back and forth across the railroad tracks. Whichever side of the tracks it was on determined the town’s name—either League City or Clear Creek. Eventually in 1902, the town officially became League City and has been named that ever since. The Butler family and J.C. League eventually partnered up to make sure League City grew into a thriving community with a bank, saloon, hotel, and doctor’s office. The two also collaborated on beautification efforts, which led to one of League City’s most recognizable landmarks—its oak trees. League and G.W. Butler’s son, Milby, shipped in two railcars full of live oaks, which were planted along the main roadways, sold to property owners, and donated to families who could not afford to buy one. These hundred-year-old trees, known as the Butler Oaks, still grow along Main Street and the surrounding streets in the League City Historic District. 7 League City|City Matters
Professional sculpture artist Lori Betz sketches an initial drawing to show what the statue of J.C. League could look like. Once a concept sketch was approved, Betz began creating an initial clay mold, followed by a wax replica, which was then broken into multiple pieces and dipped in ceramic shells. The wax was then melted out of the shells and bronze was poured in. Betz is now in the process of welding together nearly a dozen bronze pieces to create one statue.
MORE PUBLIC ART... LET’S GOGH! After officially kicking off a year ago with a painted mural at League Park and the opening of a free Public Art Gallery, League City’s Public Art Initiative is expanding to include different types of visual arts—including sculptures and photography—as well as different materials including wood, bronze, and even yarn. Stay tuned in the coming months for various new projects and exhibits at City facilities, parks, and events.
A Moment in Time
In addition to a permanent photography exhibit installed in February at the Helen Hall Library, photos are currently being gathered by members of the League City Volunteer Fire Department, Police Department, and by the League City Historical Society to create a second exhibit. The gallery, which will be located at the Hometown Heroes Recreation Center, will highlight the history of the City’s first responders from 1939 to the present.
Knit Happens
Members of the “Every Stitch Way” crafting club, which meets every other Wednesday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Helen Hall Library, is knitting and crocheting a series of tree cuffs (like the ones shown) that will wrap the trees in front of the Helen Hall Library. If interested in contributing to the project, email City Librarian Teresa Potter at teresa.potter@leaguecitytx.gov or call 281-554-1106.
Calling All Artists
Located in the lobby of the Johnnie Arolfo Civic Center, League City’s free Public Art Gallery showcases the work of local artists of all ages—both professional and amateur. We are currently curating pieces to display for our summer and fall exhibits. If interested, email League City’s Public Art Coordinator Rosa Salcido at rosa.salcido@leaguecitytx.gov or call 281-554-1265. Upcoming themes include: A new photography display at the Helen Hall Library showcases the library over the last five decades. A similar gallery, featuring LCPD and LCVFD, will be coming soon to Hometown Heroes Park.
April: What Inspires You May-June: Works by Clear Creek ISD students July-August: Animal Persuasion September-November: Works by Clear Creek ISD and Dickinson ISD teachers
League City White Linen Night & Art Crawl June 25 Save the date of Saturday, June 25 for League City’s first ever art crawl under the historic oaks of League Park and the surrounding streets of the Historic District. We’re calling it League City White Linen Night—paying homage to a centuries-old New Orleans tradition of wearing white clothes while socializing outdoors in the summer heat. In addition to donning white, attendees will stroll the streets of the League City Historic District to view, and even purchase, a variety of art while listening to live music and entertainment, enjoying food and beverages from local food trucks, and learning more about League City’s past. The event will also include a car show featuring vehicles from the past 60 years to celebrate League City’s 60th anniversary. If interested in being a vendor or having an artist tent or vehicle on display, contact League City Special Events Planner Ashley Jackson at ashley.jackson@leaguecitytx.gov or 281-554-1175.
City Matters|League City 8
MEET THE BUSBY FAMILY Stars of TLC’s “Outdaughtered” How this League City family’s journey raising America’s only set of all-female quintuplets gave them a deeper understanding of the need for community Most parents remember the chaos and exhaustion that comes from navigating life with a newborn. Now multiply that by five and add a television crew into the mix. That was Danielle and Adam Busby’s experience. Their family of eight—which includes 11-year-old daughter Blayke—started filming the TLC show, “Outdaughtered,” in 2015 as soon as they brought their quintuplets home from the hospital.
The Busbys planted roots in League City and started their newlywed lives. Eight years later when the quintuplets were born, they couldn’t imagine leaving the town they’d grown to love. Rather than moving their family back to Louisiana, Danielle’s mom and twin sisters moved to League City instead. “We’ve built a family of community around here,” said Danielle.
Prior to being the parents of six daughters, Danielle and Adam lived in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Shortly after the couple married, Adam received a Houston-area job offer and the Busbys moved to League City in 2007.
The quintuplets are now seven years old and the Busbys continue to emphasize the importance of community. Having a strong network of friends and family has been a crucial part of their journey raising six daughters.
“We knew we didn’t want to live in Houston. We were used to a smaller, close-knit community,” said Adam. “When we visited League City, it felt like a small, hometown community. Plus, it had a lot to offer as far as things to do and places to eat.”
“It was very hard to ask for help at first, but allowing people to come into our lives has been very rewarding and eye opening,” Danielle explained. “We’ve been loved on so much from our community and our church. Now that our kids are getting older, we want to serve others in the same way.”
9 League City|City Matters
The couple wants to use their various platforms—from their television show to their personal blog and YouTube channel—to help other families of multiples and those who experience infertility. “I think God created us for community,” said Danielle. “The show isn’t just about us. We’ve heard stories from people who’ve been impacted and encouraged by our outlook on life and our faith. So even though it can be hard to put ourselves out there and be vulnerable, those stories are what keep us going.” Like true League City locals, the Busbys enjoy the many events and activities available to residents. “The holiday season is our favorite time of year, and we love the big holiday parade,” said Danielle. In fact, the family has had a float in the parade for the past several years. The kids are also branching out into youth athletics, including soccer and basketball. When they aren’t busy with other activities, they love to play outside. Their favorite park? “Hometown Heroes. The girls like the playground and they can ride around the sidewalks on their scooters.”
BuzzWords A Q&A with the Busby family
Is there a part of your story you hope to tell in future seasons of the show? Our dating relationship. We go on a date every single week, sometimes twice a week. You never see that on TV. We are very focused on family and try to prioritize our marriage.
Adam & Danielle
With five girls being the same age, what do you look forward to and what are you nervous about? We are excited that they will always have a person they can rely on no matter what challenges they face as they get older. What are we nervous about? (chuckles) All things!
Is there anything about your family that people misunderstand? Sometimes when people don’t see certain family members on the show, they think something’s wrong. That’s not true. We are still a very close, tight-knit family. But they have lives too. We incorporate them as much as they want, but they work and have things going on as well. What do you hope to see in the future for League City? We would love to see a family-friendly outdoor amphitheater or space for live music. A place where local musicians— adults and even kids—can perform. The city is growing fast, and it would be great to have a live music amenity.
What’s the best part about having 5 sisters?
What makes you happy?
Hazel
Olivia
Parker
Blayke
Ava
Hazel
Sleepovers in the tent
Playing with them
Having them in my classroom at school
My family, my puppies, and my best friend
Stuffed animals
When mom and dad give me hugs and kisses
Favorite thing to do on the weekends?
Best thing about having a show on TV?
Riley
Parker
Olivia
Blayke
Riley
Ava
Take snacks when no one’s looking
A sleepover with my sisters and friends
Eat candy
We get to do cool things, like trips
We get to talk on camera and say lots of stuff
That I can watch myself on TV
City Matters|League City 10
10 YEARS LATER... The Ghirardi Tree Transplant Ten years ago, a road-widening project required the century-old Ghirardi Compton Oak tree to be removed from its home on the Ghirardi family property at the corner of FM 518 and Louisiana Avenue. Rather than cut down the tree, City leaders and residents agreed that it was an important piece of League City history and worth preserving. The tree was carefully moved 1,500 feet down the road to the Ghirardi Family WaterSmart Park. Scan the QR code or go to leaguecity.com/ghirardioak to watch a short video documenting the Ghirardi tree’s transplant effort.
Who was the Ghirardi family? League City’s First Italian Immigrants For more than 100 years, the Ghirardi Compton oak tree grew on the property of one of League City’s first Italian immigrant families—the Ghirardi family. Giovanni and Marie Ghirardi came to Texas in 1892 from Cercenasco—a village in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Marie’s tragic death in 1905 prompted the oldest of the Ghirardi children to get a job working on a farm. Eleven-year-old Sebastian Ghirardi worked for Mitsutaro Kobayashi—one of the area’s first Japanese immigrants and a farmer of Satsuma oranges and vegetables. Putting Down Roots By 1918, Sebastian had saved enough money to purchase land and build a new home for his family. He married fellow Italian immigrant Domenica Fillippa, and the couple went on to have four children. Building a Legacy The Ghirardis thrived at their new property. They spent decades farming fruits and vegetables, strengthening the local economy. League City’s Italian families are credited with helping transform the area from a ranching community to a farming community.
Kindness Rock Garden Ghirardi Tree Stats 56-feet tall 258 tons 100-foot-wide canopy 135-inch trunk circumference Visit the Ghirardi Tree at the Ghirardi Family WaterSmart Park, 1910 Louisiana Ave. 11 League City|City Matters
Help Our Garden Grow! Paint a rock and leave it at the Kindness Rock Garden at the Ghirardi WaterSmart Park to spread kindness in League City.
SPRING MIGRATION CELEBRATION Take the Spring Migration Birding Challenge The birds are flocking to League City for their annual spring migration. Celebrate this momentous trek by participating in the 2022 Spring Migration Birding Challenge and explore local stops on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. The printable challenge features nine migratory birds known to stop in League City during spring migration. Participants must spot at least one bird featured in the challenge to earn an official 2022 League City Spring Migration Birding Badge. Bring your completed challenge sheet to City Hall at 300 W. Walker Street by May 31 to collect your commemorative birding badge.
Pick up your copy of the 2022 Spring Migration Birding Challenge at Helen Hall Library, City Hall, or Hometown Heroes Park. To learn more about the rules or to print the challenge at home, visit leaguecitycvb.com/ springmigration.
Search for Birds on the New Feathered Friends Trail System Painted Bunting
Baltimore Oriole
Black and White Warbler
The birding challenge provides a great opportunity to get outdoors during our beautiful spring weather and connect with nature. Exploring League City’s trails system to search for birds in their preferred habitats is easier than ever thanks to a newly installed trail signage system. The Parks and Recreation Department recently unveiled phase one of a comprehensive plan to name the City’s hike and bike trails and provide them with directional and informational signage. Phase one—called the Feathered Friends Trail System—consists of over two dozen signs located at Lynn Gripon Park at Countryside, Rustic Oaks Park, and the hike and bike trails surrounding them. All the trails are named after birds that either live or migrate to the League City area. The signs contain wayfinding, directional, and mileage details as well as information on birdwatching, park amenities, and maps.
Phase two and three of the City’s wayfinding sign initiative—which will be designed in 2022 and installed in early 2023—will include a collection of hike and bike trails named after coastal creatures and Texas native plants and wildflowers.
City Recognized for Environmental & Beautification Efforts League City’s Parks and Recreation Department’s 2021 Outdoor Education Initiative—which included Astronomy in the Park, Nature with Kristine events, a National Trails Day event, and Birding 101 classes and guided bird walks—was selected as the winner of the “Programming Award” in the Houston-Galveston Area Council annual Parks and Natural Areas Award Program. League City was also recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation, for the third year in a row, as an official Tree City USA member. In addition, League City has been upgraded by the Keep Texas Beautiful Association to “Silver Star Affiliate” status for the City’s environmental and community improvement efforts in 2021. City Matters|League City 12
BIG LEAGUE DREAMS REOPENED After being closed during COVID, Big League Dreams League City has reopened with a variety of improvements and upgrades as well as a new company managing the day-to-day operations and maintenance. Since signing a contract with the City last summer, TC Sports Group LLC— the new management and operating company—has invested $2 million to not only restore the city-owned facility to its original state when it first opened 15 years ago, but make various upgrades, including all new infield turf and the redesign of two restaurants. During its re-opening weekend in March, Big League Dreams hosted a three-day adult baseball tournament for 60 teams, including 12 that traveled from out of state, bringing hotel and sales tax revenue to the city. The facility is booked for weekday and weekend softball and baseball tournaments for the remainder of the year, as well as other sporting events including cheerleading competitions. Big League Dreams can also be rented out for events, concerts, meetings, and parties.
All League City residents are invited to come to Big League Dreams on Saturday, May 14, from noon to 4 p.m. for the City’s 60th Anniversary Party and Finish Line Celebration for the Amazing Adventure (see page 6).
RED, WHITE, & BLUE
Schedule of Events 9 to 11 a.m.
5K Race and Fun Run *Various categories with staggered start times. Sign up at www.leaguecity.com/5K
5K FUN RUN Join us to christen the new 5k loop and obstacle/fitness course at Hometown Heroes Park and honor League City’s first responders and members of our armed forces.
13 League City|City Matters
11 a.m.
Ribbon Cutting for New Obstacle/Fitness Course
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
•Food trucks, live music, games, and inflatables •“Touch a Truck” featuring League City Police, Fire, and EMS vehicles •Unveiling of new First Responder Photography Exhibit •Displays by various divisions of the U.S. Armed Forces
SUMMERTIME FUN The sun is shining, school is almost out, and summer is upon us. The Helen Hall Library and the League City Parks and Recreation Department have planned plenty of exciting activities and events for all ages this summer.
Helen Hall Library All events and programming are free. Register online at leaguecity.com/library Get Lit! The Book Box for Adults This May, the library is launching a book subscription box for adults called Get Lit: The Book Box for Adults. Based on their award-winning Teen Book Box program, adults can participate and receive a monthly box that will include a personalized reading recommendation, fun magnets, delicious chocolates, and groovy stickers.
Parks and Recreation Register online at leaguecity.com/parks or in person at Hometown Heroes Park, 1001 E. League City Pkwy. Food Truck Friday Gather the family for an open-play corn hole tournament, fun games, great music, and local food trucks on May 13, at 6 p.m. at Lynn Gripon Park at Countryside. Signups for the cornhole tournament begin at 6 p.m. and the tournament will start at 7 p.m. Nature with Kristine Choose from three kid-friendly, activity-packed dates and learn about the beauty of nature. May 21 •Nature Journal: 9 to 11 a.m. at Dr. Ned and Fay Dudney Clear Creek Nature Center •Nature Scavenger Hunt: 2 to 4 p.m. at Lynn Gripon Park at Countryside June 11 •Minibeast Spotting: 9 to 11 a.m. at Dr. Ned and Fay Dudney Clear Creek Nature Center •Nature Sounds Challenge: 3 to 5 p.m. at Heritage Park July 9 •Nature BINGO: 9 to 11 a.m. at Dr. Ned and Fay Dudney Clear Creek Nature Center •Fun with Color!: 3 to 5 p.m. at Ghirardi Family WaterSmart Park
For a full list of activities, visit leaguecity.com/library.
Ocean of Possibilities Visit the library anytime from June 1 to July 31 and enjoy activities like a Mermaid Parade, Coastal Crafternoon, Marine Masterpieces, Teen Trivia Night, Sushi Rolling Date Night, ocean-themed take-home crafts, and more. The kickoff party will be on June 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Helen Hall Library. Community Program Suggestions
Do you have suggestions for new programs? Scan this QR Code or email teresa.potter@leaguecitytx.gov and tell us what community programs you’d like to see in League City!
Astronomy in the Park Join astronomists Daniel and Rebeca Roy every first Saturday of the month for a fun evening of amateur astronomy. May 7 and June 4 at 7 p.m. at Rustic Oaks Park. Dive-In Movie Bring the entire family to Hometown Heroes Park for a Dive-In Movie experience on July 15. There will be open swim, a concession stand, and movie from 6 to 10 p.m. Movie will start at sundown. Registration fee is $6 for residents and $10 for nonresidents. For more information contact Paige La Bar at paige.labar@leaguecitytx.gov. League City Pools Open Swim Hours: Pools open June 1 through August 13 with a free weekend May 28-30. Walker Street Pool Tuesday to Sunday: 1 to 7 p.m. Monday: Closed Hometown Heroes Park Pool Monday to Thursday: 1 to 5 p.m. Friday: Closed Saturday and Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m. City Matters|League City 14
LEAGUE CITY PUBLIC WORKS
First Responders Working for You
The League City Public Works Department is the backbone of operating and maintaining our city’s infrastructure. They are on call 24/7 and must be ready to respond at a moment’s notice to address water main breaks, broken sewer lines, or severe weather-related problems. Our 138 dedicated public servants—who are also recognized as federally mandated first responders—work together behind the scenes to create a strong foundation for League City to thrive. To meet the needs of our residents, our first responders have a variety of tools that help them get the job done in a safe and efficient manner. As part of National Public Works Week, which is observed from May 15–21, we’re giving you an in-depth look at the different divisions within Public Works and how they enhance our quality of life.
Stormwater
e Repair
Utility Lin
Maintaining th e City’s drain age system, m channel outfa ajor lls, and roadsi d e ditches is cr in preventing ucial flooding durin g heavy rain To improve d events. rainage in all areas of the ci Stormwater D ty, the epartment use s a variety of for cleaning a machines nd clearing st ormwater infra like the XL410 structure, 0 Gradall, w hich removes debris with its large grapple claw .
e Crew
Rapid Respons
fore and se crew is vital be on sp Re d pi Ra getative The City’s ents to remove ve ev er th ea w e m adways, after extre m our ditches, ro fro is br de s ou most-used or hazard re. One of their tu uc str fra in ge and draina Cleaner Vacuum bination Sewer removes tools is the Com ge culverts and na ai dr rs ea cl ch Truck, whi rs. water intercepto trash from storm
15 League City|City Matters
nance and mainte e ir a p re e h th rvic tasked wit es, and se Crews are s, fire hydrants, valv sewer ry a ir sanit ain a m p r re te a d n w a f o in crews also mainta mains. Line Repair y e Th s. e n li rce sanitary fo ncy calls for service mains and rge e m e Uri, when ond to sp re n inter Storm e ft W to o g n ri u d ,000 calls s, like ximately 2 and repair ro p p a to nded zen pipes. they respo r due to fro te a w t c e disconn
Wastewate r
Rainwater and w drains or is flu astewater that flows dow n our shed down o ur toilets mus an intricate tre t go through atment proce ss to remove and make it pollutants safe for relea se into the cr be reused fo eek or to r irrigation. S taff with the W Department ast treat up to 4 8 million gallo ewater per day durin ns o g wet weath er periods. Th f water unit maintain eir operations s daily opera tions of the D Wastewater allas Salmon Treatment Pla nt and the So Water Recla uthwest mation Facilit y, and 76 lift stations.
Traffi c&
gement
Fleet Mana
Trans p
or tat
ion
The Tra ffi of two c and Trans portati divisio o n contro l equip s that opera n Departme te and n ment th Divisio mainta t consists n ro in all tr equipm maintains a ughout the affic nd op city. Th e er e and ra nt, such as traffic ates all sign Traffic Signa dar sp alized signals eed sig l mainta traffi , sc in n They fa s all traffic s s. The Traffic hool zone fl c ig a C b mainta ricate and in ns and traffi ontrol Divisio shers, c in gua s n c ta o ll ntro tra rdrails and p ffic signs in- l devices. h aveme nt mar ouse, and kings.
ity ision of the C al service div vide services rn te in n a is n This divisio y. They pro a repair facilit vy equipment, trailers, a that operates he ity vehicles, artment to over 550 C ces of equipment. The dep vehicle ie e, and related p r preventative maintenanc ling e fo fu , le e ib istanc is respons , road-call ass posal, and irs a p re , ns io inspect and dis cle purchases services, vehi fications. eci equipment sp Vegetation M an
agement
Department Milestones in 2021: •Four miles of asphalt roadway repaired
•234 miles of roadside ditch mowing completed •2,241 street signs repaired/replaced •22,000 linear feet of storm and sanitary lines cleaned
n
tio Produc Water
This division is re sponsible for tre e trimming, code enforcement ab atement, and mow ing throughout the city. In 2021, they received the Marsh Master Amphibius Mow er. This specializ ed piece of equipment can tra verse wetbottom ed terrain and ev float on water to en ensure our draina ge infrastructure and sensitive wet bottomed terrain are maintained.
ible for respons nts is t n e m rt e our resid on Depa Producti ater supply for r te s a rd W The tanda ble w quality s g a pota ies, providin g that all water perate 14 facilit n o uri and ens ey maintain and p stations, four . h m T u t. ter wells p e r m te are boos roundwa g n te e f in o n g d consistin tanks, an storage d te a v ele
Streets
The Streets Div ision is tasked with making su the city’s 400 m re iles of roadway s are properly maintained to keep your com mute as safe an smooth as poss d ible. They are re sponsible for concrete road pavement, asph alt sidewalk repa irs, and filling po rehabilitation, tholes. Using an asphalt paver allows them to rehabilitate ou to provide a du r roads rable, smooth driving surface .
City Matters|League City 16
DESTINY FERNANDISSE #LCLocal Resident & miss league city usa
Meet Miss League City USA, 26-year-old Destiny Fernandisse. Destiny, a Clear Springs High School graduate, was selected to represent League City in the upcoming Miss Texas USA Pageant this July. While she prepares for the pageant, you might see her at local events and activities, serving the community in her new role. In February, she led the Kid’s Krewe and Pet Paw-rade as a grand marshal at Beads & Bark in the Park—the City’s family-friendly Mardi Gras celebration. In March, Helen Hall Library invited Destiny to read to the children during a special storytime with Miss League City USA. Though she is a full-time marketing manager for a real estate firm, Destiny dedicates her spare time to providing comfort kits for uninsured women undergoing breast cancer treatment through a non-profit charity she created in memory of her grandmother. In addition, she is a mentor for the Houston Angels—an organization that offers support for children, youth, and families in the foster care community. While Destiny has big aspirations, she maintains a warm affection for the city in which she was raised. “I’ve lived here for as long as I can remember,” she said. “I have memories around every corner.” Some of her favorite things to do in League City include walking through Walter Hall Park with her family and dog, and dining at her favorite restaurant, Asian Fusion. “I love driving through Old League City by Helen’s Garden,” said Destiny. “Something about it makes me feel so nostalgic, like I’m at home, because it has that small-town charm to it.”
Know someone who would make a great #LCLocal profile? Email sarah.greerosborne@leaguecitytx.gov 17 League City|City Matters
The first Miss League City USA pageant will be held in 2023. Destiny is excited for the other contestants to visit League City and hopes they will love her hometown as much as she does. When asked to describe League City in two words, Destiny replied, “Charming and friendly.”
AWARDS AND ACCOLADES City Manager Recognized as Public Official of the Year
League City Manager John Baumgartner was recently recognized by the University of Houston’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) Program as a Public Official of the Year. Baumgartner was one of five government officials honored for their influence on the ideals of public service in the greater Houston metropolitan area. Each year, the MPA Program recognizes local changemakers who exemplify strength in ethical decision making; a commitment to the welfare of citizenry by reaching beyond personal, professional, and political motives; and an innate ability to encourage and maintain supportive relationships across jurisdictional boundaries. Baumgartner has served as the City Manager of League City for the last seven years and is responsible for city operations per policies set by the City Council. With over 30 years of local government experience in Texas, Baumgartner is designated as a national Public Works Leadership Fellow by the American Public Works Association and as a credentialed manager by the International City/County Management Association.
Citizen Survey Ranks League City Above U.S. and Texas in Government Services
Results from a randomly sampled survey of residents conducted in the fall of 2021 indicate League City residents have a very high perception of the City and are satisfied with the services they are receiving from their local government. Of those surveyed, 90 percent are satisfied with the quality of life in League City. League City rated 8 percent above the U.S. average and 24 percent above the Texas average in the overall quality of government services. Of those surveyed, 96 percent indicate League City is an excellent or good place to live, which is significantly higher than the national average of 73 percent. Ninetyfour percent indicated League City is an excellent or good place to raise children, which is significantly higher than the national average of 71 percent. The survey results also indicate three top “areas of services” that should receive the most emphasis over the next two years. They include overall flow of traffic and congestion; management of streets in League City; overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and utilities; and overall efforts by League City to ensure the community is prepared for emergencies. The results of the survey will be used by League City to improve existing programs and services, identify challenges and areas for improvement, and determine planning and investment decisions.
Helen Hall Library Ranks in Top 10% Statewide The Helen Hall Library has earned the 2021 Achievement of Excellence in Libraries Award from the Texas Municipal Library Director’s Association. With 565 public library systems in Texas, the Helen Hall library was one of only 59 selected to receive this award. The library was honored for exhibiting merit in providing services to underserved and special populations; marketing their programs and services in innovative ways; promoting cultural, topical, and educational programming; literacy support; summer reading clubs; digital inclusion; and comprehensive training for staff. This honor places the library in the top 10% of all public libraries in Texas. In addition, the library was awarded a 2022 Family Place grant by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. This $6,000 grant will assist in the development of Galveston County’s first designated Family Place Library and more specifically, the library’s family literacy corner. Ranked first among all other grant applicants, the Helen Hall Library hopes to develop a family-friendly environment by transforming a section of the library into a community center for literacy, early childhood development, parent education and engagement, and family support and community information. City Matters|League City 18
City of League City 300 West Walker Street League City, TX 77573
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FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA July 3 | 6-10 p.m. | Chester L. Davis Sportsplex Enjoy an evening with family and f riends as part of your Independence Day celebration.
Citizen Appreciation Day July 4 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Hometown Heroes Park Come share your patriotic spirit with us as we celebrate the Fourth of July, and recognize League City’s most valuable asset—our citizens!
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