December Webster Way

DECEMBER 2024

WEBSTER WONDERLAND Mayor Donna Jasso and her granddaughters, Mia and Claira, admire the beautiful holiday decorations at Texas Avenue Park, crafted with care by Webster Public Works.

WEBSTER PD EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH PG. 2

HOLIDAY EVENTS IN WEBSTER PG. 5

WPFA HOLIDAY INITIATIVES PG.6

SGT. J.C. RINCONES DEDICATED TO COMMUNITY AND SERVICE FOR OVER 30 YEARS Sergeant J.C. Rincones has been a pillar in the department and the community for over three decades. He began his law enforcement career in August 1992 with the Fort Bend Independent School District Police Department and joined the Webster Police Department as a night-shift patrol officer in April 1994.

Today, Sergeant Rincones holds the highest level of peace officer certification as a Master Peace Officer with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). Over the years, he has earned several state certifications in specialized areas such as Crime Scene and Evidence Processing, Field Training, and Intoxilyzer Operation.

In 1999, Sergeant Rincones was selected to join the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) as a Detective and I.D. Technician, where he gained extensive experience in processing crime scenes and evidence. In 2013, Sergeant Rincones completed a prestigious ten-week leadership program with Northwestern University’s Center for Public Safety, School of Police Staff and Command.

Currently, Sergeant Rincones serves as the department’s gang liaison. Promoted to Sergeant in 2008, he has since taken on a supervisory role, mentoring many officers who have become supervisors—a testament to his leadership and dedication. His bilingual skills have also been invaluable, enabling him to assist fellow detectives on various cases. From 2018 to 2021, Sergeant RIncones led critical investigative efforts as the CID Sergeant.

Reflecting on his career, Sergeant Rincones recalls a particularly challenging situation involving a young man threatening to jump from a bridge. Thanks to the teamwork and quick thinking of Sergeant Rincones and his colleagues, they intervened safely, earning them a Life Saving Award from the City.

One of Sergeant Rincones’ favorite community activities is giving tours of the police station. Over the years, he has guided countless children and adults through the station, sharing insights into the tools and technology officers use to keep the community safe.

Sergeant Rincones has valued his connections with Webster’s residents and business owners throughout his years of service.

Many individuals, including former troubled teens he encountered early in his career, have later expressed gratitude for his impact on their lives.

2 Webster Way | December

“Being part of the community is what I love most,” says Sergeant Rincones, “I believe reaching out to as many people as I can helps me to be a better representative of the City.”

TIPS TO STAY SAFE AND SECURE THIS HOLIDAY

SEASON Travel Safety

Driving Safety

1. Let a trusted neighbor know if you will be out of town so they can keep an eye out on your home.

1. Arrange transportation if you will be attending holiday parties where alcohol is involved.

2. Remember to put mail and package deliveries on hold when away for an extended period.

2. Remember safe driving practices, including avoiding distractions like texting.

3. Avoid posting travel plans on social media, which can alert potential burglars to an empty home.

Home Safety 1. Remember to lock all doors and windows, especially when traveling.

2. Use timers for lights and setting alarms to give the appearance that someone is home.

3. Keep valuables out of sights, as increased deliveries around the holidays can attract package theft.

REMEMBER TO CALL THE WEBSTER PD IF YOU NOTICE ANYTHING SUSPICIOUS 281.332.2426 EXT. 5

Cyber Safety 1. Only shop on trusted websites, and look for “https” in the URL for added security.

2. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for online shopping to protect personal information.

3. Check bank and credit card statements regularly for suspicious charges.

Shopping Safety 1. Stay aware of your surroundings while shopping, especially in crowded areas.

2. Keep your bags closed and wallets secured, particularly in large crowds or while loading purchases.

3. Park in well-lit, busy areas to deter car break-ins.

Webster Way |December 3

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4 Webster Way | December

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SANTA IN WEBSTER Santa is making his way through Webster with the Fire Department on Saturday, December 21, starting at 11:00 A.M. Stay tuned to the City’s official Facebook page for route details as the event approaches. Santa will begin his journey in Webdale, spreading holiday cheer next through Green Acres and wrapping up with a grand finale in Edgewater.

Mark your calendars and get ready to say hi to Santa and friends as they bring holiday magic to every corner of our community!

SENIOR HOLIDAY LUNCHEON We’re thrilled to bring holiday cheer to our cherished senior community this December! Join us for a festive and joyful Senior Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, December 11, beginning at 11:30 A.M. at the Webster Recreation Center.

Oh, What Fun! HOLIDAY EVENTS IN WEBSTER

This special gathering is the perfect chance for our seniors to enjoy a delicious meal, connect with friends, and celebrate the holiday season in wonderful company.

Senior Holiday Luncheon

CHRISTMAS AT THE PARK Save the date for Saturday, December 14, and get ready to dive into the holiday spirit at our Christmas at the Park! Bundle up and enjoy treats from local vendors as the Space City Big Band fills the air with beloved holiday tunes.

The festivities continue with a special outdoor showing of The Nightmare Before Christmas on the Texas Avenue Park lawn at 7 P.M. Plus, Santa himself will be there to spread cheer and capture unforgettable moments with free photos for the kids.

Christmas at the Park

Webster Way |December 5

Wpfa

Firefighters Jacob Galvan and Christian Rivera pose for a picture with McWhirter Elementary staff.

GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

The holiday season is a time for giving, and the Webster Professional Firefighters Association (WPFA) embraces that spirit by continuing its tradition of spreading joy and making a difference in the community. From donation drives to personalized assistance for local families, the WPFA is committed to brightening the holidays for those in need.

GIVING BACK THROUGH A CHRISTMAS DONATION DRIVE This year, the WPFA is hosting a Christmas Donation Drive, inviting the community to help spread holiday cheer.

Donations can be dropped off at the Webster Fire Department at 18300 Hwy 3, Webster, TX, from November 18 through December 18, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The drive is collecting essential items, including warm clothing, personal care products, toys for children (ages infant to 16 years) These contributions will benefit local organizations such as the Webster Presbyterian Church, which hosts an annual event allowing less fortunate parents to “shop” for gifts for their children, and Bay Area Turning Point, which supports women and children in crisis. The firefighters also assist with unloading, bagging, and distributing these donations to families during the church’s event.

HELPING LOCAL SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES The WPFA’s generosity extends beyond donation drives. They maintain close relationships with counselors and principals at McWhirter Elementary

6 Webster Way | December

Firefighter Marshall Boyd holds hands with McWhirter Elementary student.

School, who help identify families in need.

Last year, the firefighters delivered toys to two classes of special education students. They also supported a grieving family after losing a family member by providing toys, bikes, helmets, Christmas decorations, and financial assistance.

This heartfelt effort was made possible through collaboration with the Assistance League of Bay Area, showcasing the power of community partnerships.

RAFFLING FOR A CAUSE In addition to their holiday initiatives, the WPFA is currently raffling a custom rifle crafted by the Friendswood Volunteer Fire Department’s Chief.

The proceeds will go directly to the families of firefighters who have tragically passed away in recent months.

TOP LEFT Webster Presbyterian Church donation.

BOTTOM LEFT: Francisco Satay Family donation.

RIGHT: McWhiter Elementary donation.

The Webster Professional Firefighters Association embodies the true meaning of the holiday season through its efforts to give back.

Whether you donate, volunteer, or purchase a raffle ticket, there are plenty of ways to support its mission and make a difference.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.webstertxfirefighters.org.

CITY COUNCIL RECAP

CITY CONTACTS City Hall Main Number 281.332.1826

October Recap • • • • • •

•

City Manager 281.332.1826

City Council approved the creation of an Information Technology (IT) Department, which will now have its own director to oversee operations.

City Council approved the 2024-2025 property tax rate.

City Council adopted an updated investment policy and authorized investment officers to manage financial transactions on behalf of the City.

City Council approved a three-year partnership to continue promoting tourism through Space Center Houston.

City Council rejected a bid from McDonald Municipal and Industrial for emergency generators for the sanitary sewer system.

City Council approved to end the City’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) contract with Acadian Ambulance.

However, they extended Acadian’s lease for space at Fire Station #1 and Fire Station #2 for another six months through March 31, 2025.

City Council appointed one new Associate Judge for a twoyear term starting November 5, 2024. Additionally, three Associate Judges and the Presiding Judge were granted new contracts.

City Secretary 281.316.4144 Community Development 281.316.4129 Economic Development 281.316.4116 Finance 281.316.4102 Municipal Court 281.316.6702 Recreation 281.316.4137

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS ARE HELD ON THE FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH.

Public Works 281.316.3700 Fire (Non-emergency) 281.332.2711

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE NEXT CITY COUNCIL MEETING, VISIT OUR WEBSITE

BY SCANNING THE QR CODE!

SOCIAL MEDIA

Police (Non-emergency) 281.332.2426 City of Webster, Texas

@WebsterTexas

@WebsterTexas_

Webster Way | December 7

THE CITY OF WEBSTER

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 119

101 Pennsylvania Ave. Webster, TX 77598

www.cityofwebster.com 281.332.1826

Webster, TX

DECEMBER

JANUARY

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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WEBSTER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MEETING* 6 P.M. at City Hall

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SENIOR GAME NIGHT 6 P.M. at 311 Pennsylvania Ave.

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CHRISTMAS AT THE PARK From 5-9 P.M., Texas Avenue Park 17100 Texas Ave.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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CHRISTMAS CLOSURE City Offices are closed Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25.

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NEW YEAR’S CLOSURE City Offices are closed on Wednesday, January 1.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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WEBSTER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MEETING* 6 P.M. at City Hall

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SENIOR GAME NIGHT 6 P.M. at 311 Pennsylvania Ave.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 P.M. at City Hall

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*Special meetings may be added, and meetings may 23be canceled if there are no agenda items. Check the City website at cityofwebster.com for meeting information.

WEBSTER CITY COUNCIL

Jennifer Heidt

Council Position 1 jheidt@cityofwebster.com

Sam Davis

Council Position 2 sdavis@cityofwebster.com

Chris Vaughan

Council Position 3 cvaughan@cityofwebster.com

Donna Jasso

Mayor mayorjasso@cityofwebster.com

Beverly Gaines

Council Position 4 bgaines@cityofwebster.com

Edward Lapeyre

Council Position 5 elapeyre@cityofwebster.com

Martin Graves

Council Position 6 mgraves@cityofwebster.com