North East Texas Choral Society Proudly Presents Their 27th Christmas Concert
November 8, 2024 – The North East Texas Choral Society proudly presents their 27th Christmas concert entitled “Winter Wonderland.” Dates for the concert are Saturday, December 7 at 7:00 PM and Sunday, December 8 at 2:00 PM. You will hear some of your holiday favorites along with one or two new pieces. Invite a friend to share the beautiful experience with you. Get your holiday off to a joyful start with The North east Texas Choral Society. Tickets may be purchased in advance from a singer, from City National Bank downtown location, Alliance Bank downtown location, Guaranty Bank and Trust or online at http://www.singerscount.org.
Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force Issues Third Biennial Report To Legislature
November 8, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today announced the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force (SASTF) issued its third Biennial Report to the Texas Legislature. The report includes policy recommendations for the 89th Legislative Session and summarizes task force activities since the last report, including the launch of a Forensic Nursing Coaching Pilot Program with the Texas A&M Health Center of Excellence in Forensic Nursing, a quarterly SASTF Webinar Series, and new trauma-informed trainings for law enforcement and hospital emergency room staff.
“Dedicated professionals and volunteers across Texas continue their crucial work to address the atrocity of sexual assault and help their fellow Texans,” said Governor Abbott. “By actively engaging in crime prevention, prosecution, advocacy, and victim support, Texas is working tirelessly to protect the right of all Texans to live safely and securely. Last session, I signed a law to permanently establish the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force. Their critical work on behalf of Texas’ adult and child sexual assault survivors for the last four years has been a key component in our goal to raise awareness and combat this heinous crime. Working together, we will continue to seek justice for survivors, hold offenders accountable, and ensure that survivors have access to the resources they need to heal and recover.”
Established in 2019, the SASTF ensures a survivor-centered, trauma-informed, collaborative, and coordinated response to sexual violence experienced by adults and children across Texas. Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 1402 into law last year to permanently establish the SASTF.
The report includes 10 policy recommendations for the 89th Legislative Session:
Promote Survivor Safety, Rights, And Healing
- Extend the right to terminate a lease to include survivors who were not assaulted in their dwelling or on the premises of their dwelling.
- Include Legal Services Information in the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Information Sheets for Sexual Assault Survivors.
- Extend consideration of impact when granting motions for continuance to include all survivors of sexual assault, regardless of family violence involvement.
- Expand right to reimbursement for Emergency Medical Care to include follow-up care for a period of 30-days.
- Expand trauma-informed training requirements for emergency room medical professionals to include ER Physicians and ER Physicians Assistants, both employed and under contract.
Strengthen Statewide Efforts
- Extend current two-year limit on Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certifications to three years.
- Require County Commissioners Courts to submit Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) Reports to the Governor’s Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force.
Focus On Offender Accountability
- Amend the sexual assault statute with respect to consent to provide clear protection for victims of sexual assault in circumstances not explicitly covered by current Texas law.
- Expand prohibited employment for a registered sex offender to include rideshare services.
- Allow evidence of extraneous offenses to be admissible for sexual offenses in adult sexual assault cases to explain the state of mind of the defendant and the relationship between defendant and victim.
Paris Junior College Inducts Three into Hall of Honor and Hall of Fame
November 7, 2024 – PJC inducts three into Hall of Honor and Hall of Fame
On Friday, Nov. 1, Paris Junior College inducted Sheila Reece and Don Kosterman into the Academic Hall of Honor and the 2013 Softball Team into the Athletic Hall of Fame.
Academic Hall of Honor
Sheila Reece was a dedicated educator and leader who devoted her career to student success. She started at PJC as an Education Placement Specialist in the Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) in 1992, and her passion for student support led her to various leadership roles, including Director of the EOC in 1993 and Director of Admissions in 1995. In 2011 she became Associate Dean of Student Access and Success and then Vice President of Student Access and Success in 2017.
“I am proud to be the one to induct my friend Sheila into the Paris Junior College Hall of Honor Class of 2024,” said Linda Slawson, Director of Financial Aid at East Texas Baptist University, who held that role for many years at PJC. “I had the pleasure of convincing Sheila to leave the Texas Workforce Commission to come to PJC in 1992.”
Deeply rooted in her community, Reece graduated from Honey Grove High School, married Mark Reece in 1985 and raised their daughters, Samantha and Macey. She was an active member of the Honey Grove ISD School Board.
Tragically, Sheila’s life was cut short in a car accident on May 18, 2023. Her legacy continues to inspire those she touched through her unwavering commitment to education and the countless lives she influenced throughout her career.
“Sheila believed and trusted and supported each and every one of you that worked with her throughout the years, and she was proud of you,” said Slawson. “You inspired her, and she valued and recognized each of your special talents. And many of you are here tonight, and I know you miss her. Sheila had a special soul. The sign on her office should have read ‘loyal, trusted leader, and friend.'”
Her family, husband Mark and daughters Samantha and Macey, accepted her award.
“Though she was not one for the spotlight, she would have been touched by this recognition for all the work that she did for over 30 years,” Samantha said in her acceptance comments.
Though retired Chemistry faculty Don Kosterman was unable to attend due to a recent move to Tallassee, Alabama, he was vividly evoked through his introduction by former student and PJC Biology faculty Jason Taylor.
“I first met Don when I was a student in his inorganic chemistry class,” Taylor said, “and I and the other students thought, ‘Man, this Guy is harsh.’ But we soon learned the bark was worse than the bite, and he would work for hours on end if you needed the help.”
Taylor also shared a favorite hobby of Kosterman’s: crocheting.
“Every Christmas in the math and science department, everybody was going to get something hand-crocheted by Don Kosterman,” said Taylor. “Funny thing is, Don was color blind, so when he would give them to you, he would say he didn’t know what color they were, but we always liked them.”
Kosterman was born in Paris in 1944, while his father served overseas during World War II. Following the war, his family moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Austin, then returned to Paris – just a block from PJC. He aspired to become a mechanical engineer.
He started at PJC in 1962, where he was drawn to chemistry through the influence of faculty members Frank Grimes and Bobby Ray Walters — both future PJC presidents. He earned a bachelor’s in chemistry and mathematics in 1967, then a Master of Science in Chemistry in 1969 from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M University – Commerce).
He changed goals again and began teaching at Highland Park High School, marrying Suzy, with whom he has celebrated over 54 years of marriage. In 1972 they returned to Paris where he began a 48.5-year career teaching chemistry at PJC. Over the years he also taught physics, physical science, various math courses, computer programming, and even slide rule.
“I taught students with diverse backgrounds and needs, including future doctors, dentists, nurses, veterinarians, and engineers,” Kosterman said. “I was honored to teach international students, students with disabilities, very young students, and older students.
“I am grateful for the thousands of students I taught, the hundreds of colleagues I worked with, and over 50 years with Paris Junior College – a record I’m proud of,” Kosterman said. “Thank you to all who were part of my journey. God bless you all, and God bless Paris Junior College — here’s to another 100 years!”
Athletic Hall of Honor
Paris Junior College’s 2013 Softball team made history by defeating Trinity Valley Community College in nine innings to be the first PJC softball team to make the national tournament.
“This was a first for any woman’s athletic program in the College’s history,” said PJC Athletic Director Clay Cox. “The Dragons finished the regular season with a 15-5 conference record in a gripping Region XIV tournament. And anybody that’s been around Region XIV knows how tough it is in any sport. They showcased determination and resilience, winning not one, not two, but three games on the final day, including back-to-back victories over Trinity Valley Community College to claim the regional title earning a spot in the National Junior College Athletic Association national tournament in St George Utah.
“Throughout the season, the Dragons demonstrated exceptional teamwork and character,” Cox said. “Their national tournament run put PJC and the city of Paris on the national softball map. In recognition of their efforts, Coach Dixon, along with assistant coach Chelsea Jordan and assistant coach Mr. Jack Butler, were honored as the NJCAA Region 14 coaching staff of the year.”
2013 players inducted include Katlin Alexander, Katelyn Bardwell, Jessica Branam, Audrey Farfan, Clarissa Garcia, Samantha Goines, Sarah Gregori, Ali Hargis, Dara Hendon, Kristin Henry, Chelsea Jordan, Alexis Padilla, Emilee Reed, Samantha Reynoso, Erin Ross, Sarah Smeltzer, and Chancy Williams.
PJC marked Dickson’s first head coaching job, and the team ended the season with a 37-19 record. She went on to start the softball program at Tyler Junior College, then to Stephen F. Austin University, and now coaches at the University of New Mexico.
Several players were recognized for their outstanding performances. Pitcher Smeltzer and Padilla earned First Team All-Region honors. Smeltzer posted a 12-2 record, with the second-best ERA in the region, while Padilla, despite playing with a broken hand, managed a .400 batting average and five home runs. Farfan and Hendon made Second Team All-Region. Hendon was a powerhouse, batting .434, ranking fifth in the region, and showing remarkable consistency. Farfan, Hendon, Padilla, Smeltzer and Reynoso were also named First Team All-Conference East.
This group was absolutely special,” said Dickson. “I want to thank the softball team, you were talented, fearless and fun. I found I had a relentless sophomore class that led the way, and a talented freshman class. My heart is so full this week, being able to see you and your families. I also want to thank the coaches, Assistant Coach Chelsea Jordan and amazing assistant coach Mr. Jack – you’re such a servant leader. Not only did you make our team better, but you made every team, every year better. I’m so grateful to be here to honor you guys, congratulations for this afternoon.”
Closing out the ceremony, PJC President Dr. Stephen Benson said, “As we leave here tonight, I hope we all feel a renewed sense of pride in being part of the PJC family and are inspired by the extraordinary legacy of those we’ve honored. Together, let’s continue to uphold the values, excellence, and spirit that make Paris Junior College truly remarkable.”
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Texas A&M University System Board of Regents Approves Name Change for Texas A&M University-Commerce
The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents voted to change the name of Texas A&M University-Commerce to East Texas A&M University.
COMMERCE, TX, November 7, 2024— During its quarterly meeting on November 7, 2024, The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents voted to change the name of Texas A&M University-Commerce to East Texas A&M University, effective immediately. The university will have several months to transition to the new name.
This decision reflects the Board’s commitment to strengthening the university’s identity and increasing its regional visibility. The change aims to reinforce the university’s mission to serve the educational needs of rural and urban East Texas communities.
“The growth and success of A&M-Commerce over the past several years have been remarkable,” said Bill Mahomes, chair of the Board of Regents. “However, we must enhance our identity and outreach to continue building on this foundation. Changing the university’s name is a crucial step in our broader strategy to serve our state better.”
Chancellor John Sharp agreed.
“This is long overdue, and it returns to the original tradition of ‘ET’ as the university’s symbol while raising its prominence,” he said. “This university has always been bigger than one town in Texas.”
The rebranding to East Texas A&M University aligns with the institution’s goals to improve name recognition. It also represents an opportunity to highlight the university’s commitment to regional engagement and educational excellence.
“We believe that this name change will better reflect our heritage and mission while allowing us to connect more deeply with the communities we serve,” said Mark Rudin, president of East Texas A&M University. “This is not just about a name; it’s about creating a stronger, more unified vision for our future.”
The transition to the new name will involve updates to the university’s branding, signage, website, URL, email addresses and communication materials over the coming months. The university community and stakeholders will be engaged throughout this process to ensure a smooth transition.
Questions? Check out East Texas A&M University’s FAQ page.
First Meeting of the Breast Cancer Support Group Scheduled
Sulphur Springs, TX –
November 7, 2024 – The first meeting of the Hopkins County Breast Cancer support group will be held on Tuesday, November 12 at 5:30 pm at the conference room of the Medical Plaza located at 113 Airport Rd. The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation recently announced the group’s established to serve Hopkins County and the surrounding areas.
The group will aid in keeping survivors informed of new information and research and provide a source of support for those on a breast cancer journey.
Since the first meeting will be held in November, the organizers decided on the theme of “thankful.” The program will be a group effort with Debbie Stinson Stribling presenting a devotional and others contributing during the event. Refreshments will be served.
All breast cancer survivors and those beginning a breast cancer journey, both women and men, are invited to attend. Women with female-related cancers are also invited to participate in the group.
The Medical Plaza is the freestanding, three-story building on the southeast corner of CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs. The conference room is on the first floor on the left.
To stay informed about the breast cancer support group and other offerings, please follow the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation on Facebook or Instagram.
For more information, contact the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation at 903-438-4799 or [email protected].
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TxDOT Partners with DPS to Help end the Streak of Daily Deaths on Texas Roadways
Starting Nov. 7, DPS will hand out flyers with safety messages during traffic stops
Nov. 7, 2024
AUSTIN – Every day for the past 24 years someone has died on a Texas roadway. Every. Single. Day.
On the anniversary of the last deathless day on Nov. 7, 2000, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) are working together to share safe driving messages in hopes to finally end this deadly streak.
The two agencies are joining forces because ending fatal crashes takes all of us. TxDOT is working to engineer safety solutions and educate drivers on safe practices while DPS enforces the laws of the road. However, drivers are the most important partners, which is why DPS troopers will be handing out tip cards during traffic stops to encourage safe driving behaviors.
“After more than two decades, it’s long past time to end the streak of daily deaths on our roadways, but it’ll take all of us to get it done,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Each life lost is a mother, father, brother, sister or friend, and we need to work together to make sure everyone can get home safely.”
Last year, 4,289 people were killed on Texas roads, and so far in 2024, Texas is averaging 10 roadway deaths a day.
Some of the top causes of crashes make up part of the card that troopers will hand out for two weeks starting Nov. 7. The messages include:
Drive safe speeds
Buckle up
Move over or slow down
Get a sober ride
Avoid distractions
Lives instantly altered
Since Nov. 7, 2000, more than 87,000 people have been killed on Texas roads.
One life lost was Aspen Blessing, a vibrant 18-year-old who was killed in March after her car was struck head-on by a drunk driver in Callahan County. Forever changed by one person’s choice to drink and drive, her family is left with a massive void.
“The hardest part is that Aspen did everything right,” said Jen Blessing, Aspen’s mother. “She was not speeding. She was wearing her seatbelt. She wasn’t distracted. One man’s bad choice cost Aspen, our family and his family everything.”
Blessing and her family are working with TxDOT to help prevent other families from suffering a similar tragedy.
Roadway safety improvements
TxDOT is committed to enhancing safety on roads throughout the state, investing $17 billion in safety improvements through the state’s 10-year plan. TxDOT also works tirelessly to develop safety innovations that can have significant impacts.
One improvement implemented this year in Fort Worth uses cameras to identify pedestrians on major roadways, targeting areas where people have been hit after trying to cross. It detects them early on, notifies law enforcement and helps them respond before they step out on the road. This has led to a drop in pedestrian crashes on these highways since they were installed in January. It’s just one example of the many innovative and engineering improvements TxDOT makes every year.
Deadly streak nearly ends
In January, Texas experienced one day with just one traffic fatality caused by a driver running a stop sign.
“A single life lost is too many, but this shows us that it can be done,” said TxDOT Deputy Executive Director Brandye Hendrickson. “We’ve been close a few times in recent years. Safety is paramount when we design, build and maintain roads, and it also must be the top priority when we’re driving on them.”
We can all do our part to #EndTheStreakTX of daily deaths.
The Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center Launches 2024 Angels of Hope Annual Holiday Campaign
More than 300 children from northeast Texas are available to sponsor for this year’s Angel Tree
November 7, 2024 – (Winnsboro, TX) – The Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center (NETCAC) invites the community to “give back” during the 2024 Annual Angels of Hope holiday campaign for more than 300 children in northeast Texas who are alleged victims of child sexual and physical abuse or neglect.
“We are grateful for how the community comes together every year to provide for these children through our Angel Tree program,” Executive Director Lauren Zastany said. “We love helping the magic of Christmas come alive for these kids.”
Anyone can “Sponsor an Angel” or “Fulfill a Wish” to make this holiday season special for a local child in need, especially during a year when the rising cost of living has burdened many families.
It’s extremely challenging for some of these families to create a magical Christmas for their kids – this is where our community comes in,” Zastany said, “and they have come through time and time again for the past 20 years.”
Angels of Hope are children and their siblings ages 0 – 17 who have needed NETCAC’s services this year and may have been victims of child abuse or witness to domestic violence or drug use in the home. The average demographic of a child who is served at NETCAC is a girl aged six to 12.
“This program always makes a tough job much easier and is a reminder of what this season is all about,” Zastany said.
Members of the community, including civic organizations, church groups and businesses, are encouraged to sponsor “Angels” by purchasing items on their lists or to make a financial contribution toward Wish Lists. For a full list of wish lists, please visit https://www.netcac.org/services/angel-tree.
General donations of new and handmade new items such as toys, games, pajamas, stuffed animals, sports equipment and hygiene products for teens are also welcomed.
To learn how you or your group can be part of this year’s Angels of Hope campaign this year, contact Jennifer Williams at [email protected] or visit https://www.netcac.org/services/angel-tree.
Since 1998, the Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has served more than 11,000 children and families in a seven-county region including Camp, Delta, Franklin, Hopkins, Titus, and Wood Counties. NETCAC works with law enforcement, child protective services and prosecutors to help victims of child physical and sexual abuse find hope and healing. To learn more, visit http://www.netcac.org.
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Chamber Connection – November 7, 2024
By Butch Burney
Nominations are being accepted for Citizen of the Year, Woman of the Year, Small and Large Businesses of the Year and other superlative recognitions. The awards will be announced at the Chamber’s membership banquet on Thursday, Feb. 13, at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
Nominations can be sent to [email protected] or mailed to the following addresses:
Citizen of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Woman of the Year—Chamber of Commerce – 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75483.
Caregiver of the Year—Chamber of Commerce – 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75483.
Community Pride Award—Adult Leadership Class—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Agriculturist of the Year—Hopkins/Rains Counties Farm Bureau— 233 College St., Sulphur Springs 75482.
Growth and Renewal—DBA—109 Jefferson St. E, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding Professional Educator (Administrator, Counselor, Diagnostician, or Teacher)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding ParaProfessional Educator (Secretary or Aide)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding Auxiliary Educator (Maintenance, Custodial, Transportation, Nurse or Cafeteria)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Businesses of the Year nominations should be for those businesses which exhibit outstanding community involvement—civic, church, educational, benevolent, humanitarian or other.
Large Business of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Small Business of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Please get your nominations in before the end of the year.
Ornaments and Stew Merch
Our 2024 Christmas Ornaments, featuring the Total Solar Eclipse, are on sale at the Chamber office. They are $40 each.
The Chamber also has a limited supply of 2024 stew merchandise still available. This includes a few shirts, tumblers, mugs and hoodies. We are located at 110 Main St.
Master Wellness
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will offer a program entitled “Yesterday’s Memories … Today’s Joys,” on Monday, Nov. 11 at 1:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. at the Southwest Dairy Museum. Cost is $10. To reserve, call 903-885-3443.
It promises to be an afternoon of fun, door prizes, creative ideas, great recipes and cheese and dip tasting sponsored by Southwest Dairy Museum.
Christmas Activities
■ The 33rd annual Sulphur Springs Symphony League live auction is brought to you by Chad’s Media on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 6 p.m. The event will be streamed live via the Front Porch News Facebook page and Chad’s Media YouTube page. Expect to see incredible gifts from local businesses, handmade treasures and unique local experiences, all available for you to place your bid. And remember, everything you donate goes to funding local music enjoyment and education like the Children’s Concert, the Dallas Opera and the Independence Day concert to Sulphur Springs!
■ Christmas in the Park is set for Nov. 30 and Dec. 7 at Heritage Park on Jackson Street. Affordable family fun under the Christmas lights, with Santa, live music, nativity and more.
■ Lake Country CASA’s annual Cookie Walk is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 6, beginning at 8 a.m. at First United Methodist Church. There will be cookies, cakes and other treats for sale to benefit Lake Country CASA.
■ The Lions Club Lighted Christmas Parade is set for Friday, Dec. 6 starting at Buford Park. Line-up begins at 4 p.m. with the parade starting at 7. Registration must be received by noon on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Categories will be Large Business, Small Business and Non-Profit, with cash prizes awarded to winners.
Registration sheets are available at the Chamber office, 110 Main St.
Entry fee is one new unwrapped present for Blue Santa.
■ Along with the parade, the city will host the Lighted Celebration Market downtown from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. It will include lighting of the city Christmas tree at 5:45 p.m.
■ The Christmas Market on Main Street will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, downtown. You can do your shopping with our local merchants and vendors that day.
■ Northeast Texas Choral Society will have their “Winter Wonderland” production at 7 p.m. Dec. 7 and 2 p.m. on Dec. 8, at the Hopkins County Civic Center. Visit the website SingersCount.org for ticket information.
■ The Best Christmas Pageant EVER will be playing at Main Street Theatre at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5, 8 and 12, and 2 p.m. on Dec. 7, 14 and 15.
Tickets are $15. Visit communityplayersinc.com for more information.
■ First Baptist Church of Sulphur Springs will present Christmas at First on Dec. 13, 14 and 15, at 6 p.m. each evening. Reserve your free tickets at SSFBC.org.
City Managers Report November 5th 2024
CLAIMS –
We had 2 workers compensation claims arising out of the same incident. An animal control officer was assaulted by a resident and treated at the emergency room. A police officer suffered a dog bite in the same incident.
We also had a liability claim over $14,000 resulting from an incident wherein a police cruiser struck another auto in a parking lot on South Broadway.
We also submitted two other claims for city vehicles involved in minor accidents.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN –
8 firms have submitted responses to our request for qualifications. The reviewing board narrowed it down to 3 top candidates and will now conduct interviews. I expect to have a recommendation to you at the December meeting.
MIRACLE LEAGUE FIELD – The engineering firm, Kimley Horn has made an initial site visit to assess the project. We are considering pushing the site further to the southeast to avoid the flood plain.
THERMO ROAD – This $4.4 million project is
partially funded by a $2.4 million grant from the
Economic Development Administration (EDA). The
contractor, 5W Contracting, is moving quickly. The
project is 50% complete.
COLEMAN BALLFIELD LIGHT UPGRADE – We received a $250,000 grant from the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) to upgrade the lights to LED. We are waiting for the executed contract from SECO.
HOLIDAY DRIVE –
This project is complete.
WASTEWATER CHLORINE CONTACT CHAMBER –
This is on tonight’s agenda to select the engineering firm.
This $2.2 million project will repurpose a former (abandoned) sand filter turning it into a chlorine contact chamber. Chlorine contact time is a bottleneck at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The WWTP has a rated capacity of 5.4 MGD. Staff believes we can increase the capacity to 10 MGD when the project is completed. The increase will require TCEQ approval, but staff thinks it is feasible. The project is being funded from the Enterprise Fund balance.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PLAN (SIP) –
The 2024 Street Improvement Plan (SIP) is complete.
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES –
Finance Director Lesa Smith will present the year-end report of revenues and expenditures.
Elsewhere around the city, employees:
- Repaired 291 potholes.
- Made 26 extensive street repairs following utility repairs.
- Replaced 26 stop signs and 7 street signs.
- Installed 10 speed limit signs.
- Demolished a house at 828 Bell.
- Hauled street sweeping spoils and sludge to the landfill.
- Responded to 187 fire/rescue calls.
- Conducted 57 fire inspections.
- Performed preventative maintenance on 78 fire hydrants.
- Responded to 1 structure fire, 2 vehicle fires, and 10 grass fires.
- Treated wastewater effluent to a total suspended solids reading of 0.41 mg/L. • Performed preventative maintenance on numerous items at the wastewater treatment plant and the water plant.
- Repaired 30 water main ruptures.
- Replaced 16 water meters.
- Unstopped 12 sewer mains.
- Washed 83,000 feet of sewer mains.
- Flushed 37 dead end water mains.
- 201 N Davis Street, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482 • 903.439.3700 • sulphurspringstx.org Page 2
- Performed preventative maintenance on numerous items at the water treatment plant.
- Responded to 196 animal control calls while achieving an adoption rate of 88%. • Made 2 felony arrests in the Special Crimes Unit.
- Responded to 33 accidents including 1 fatality, wrote 613 citations, recorded 33 offences and made 42 arrests in the Patrol Division.
- Conducted 105 building inspections, 26 electrical inspections, 17 plumbing inspections, and 8 mechanical inspections.
- Issued 48 building permits and 62 trade permits.
- Sold 2,288 gallons of AvGas and 12,413 gallons of JetA fuel. • Accommodated 2,199 operations at the airport.
- Hosted the National Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) finals. • Checked out 4,190 items from the library including 998 eBooks. • Changed out flowers and banners downtown.
- Assisted with 71 activities at the senior citizens center.
- Rented the Grays Building 17 times.
- Purchased new scoreboards for Coleman Park.
Amber Alert for Local Girl Issued
November 7, 2024 – Jordan Maceachran, 16, of West Tawakoni was was last seen at 6 a.m. on Wednesday. She is described as 5 feet two inches with blue eyes and brown hair.
Jordan was last seen at the 600 block of Valley West Drive in West Tawakaoni. She was wearing a black t-shirt with “AC/DC” on front, black pants, with black and white shoes, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Call 903 447 3605 if you have information about this case.
