INSIDE LA MARQUE
Community news from the City of La Marque and the La Marque Economic Development Corporation
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Hello Friends,
La Marque has entered 2026 with strong momentum and meaningful progress across our organization and community. We are pleased to welcome two key leaders to our municipal team: Police Chief Byron Frankland and Development Services Director Joshua McConnell. Their experience and dedication will strengthen our city’s operations and support our continued growth.
Several important events took place in recent weeks. On March 13, the City of La Marque and the La Marque Economic Development Corporation hosted the Ron Crowder Memorial Plaque Dedication Ceremony, honoring an individual who has left a lasting mark on La Marque. That day, the EDC also held an open house celebrating the completion of its new downtown facility—an exciting milestone in our efforts to revitalize the downtown renaissance district and expand economic opportunity.
Later in March, the community gathered for the annual State of the City Address at the Chuck Doyle Convention Center. This event provided an opportunity to share updates on our progress, highlight priorities, and outline the initiatives that will guide La Marque’s future. Also in March, the City continued its tradition of family-friendly
programming with, Springtime Smiles, where families enjoyed pictures with the Easter Bunny.
In April the Spring Cleanup will take place. This event encourages residents to work together to beautify our neighborhoods. The month will also feature the Bon Temps Rouler Cajun Throwdown at La Marque Bayou Fest, a celebration of culture, food, and community spirit.
Residents are also reminded that City Council elections for Districts B and D will take place in May. Local elections are a vital part of civic engagement, and I encourage everyone to stay informed and participate in the democratic process.
As we move through 2026, La Marque continues to build on a foundation of community pride, collaboration, and steady progress. I look forward to the work ahead and to the many opportunities we will share as we shape the future of our city together.
With gratitude and pride,
Mayor Keith Bell
CITY UPDATES CALENDAR
Meet the New Faces Serving La Marque
Josh McConnell Development Services Director
What are your top priorities in your new role?
My top priorities are making our services more responsive, improving customer experience, and helping our department operate as clearly and efficiently as possible. I want residents, business owners, and developers to feel like they can work with us, understand the process, and get dependable answers. At the same time, I want to make sure we continue protecting public safety and supporting quality growth in La Marque.
How does Development Services impact residents and local businesses?
Development Services touches a lot of everyday life, often more than people realize. Our work affects how homes and businesses are built, how properties are maintained, how new projects move forward, and how the city grows over time. When we do our job well, it helps create a safer, more attractive, and more predictable environment for families, neighborhoods, and local investment.
Tell us a bit about your background.
My background includes work in both the public and private sectors, which has given me a well-rounded perspective on development and construction. Early in my career, I worked at an MEP consulting firm in Fort Worth as a plumbing designer, and later I worked for a large construction company in Patagonia, Argentina, as a CAD Manager and Assistant Project Manager for multi-million dollar projects. Those experiences gave me a strong foundation in design, construction coordination, and problem-solving. Since then, I’ve continued working in building codes, inspections, permitting, plan review, and development services leadership, always with a focus on balancing safety, efficiency, and good service to the community.
Byron Frankland Chief of Police
What are your top priorities as Chief of Police?
I am looking forward to meeting with the citizens of La Marque and getting to know them, building relationships with each of them, and addressing the issues that are most important to them. I want La Marque to be the safest community in Texas. This can be accomplished with hard work from our community and the Police Department.
What excites you most about serving our community?
I'm a big proponent of building a strong partnership between the community and the police to work together in addressing the issues that are in the community.
Tell us a bit about your background.
I served the City of Galveston for over 24 years in the Police Department and retired as the Assistant Chief of Police in 2017. I went to Hutto, Texas, in April of 2017 as the Chief of Police and was able to build a full-service community-oriented police department focusing on community involvement. I was promoted to Assistant City Manager in 2019 and was able to be involved in a quickly growing city and the issues that arose with its growth. I left in 2021 and returned to police work in the City of Rockdale, Texas, where I helped change the Police department culture as a sergeant, working with younger officers and mentoring them. In December of 2022, I went back to the City of Galveston as the Emergency Management Coordinator, learning a new perspective from this assignment.
SPRING CLEANUP
Shred, Dump, or Volunteer at the City
Cleanup Saturday, April 11
The Keep La Marque Beautiful Commission is gearing up for its annual Spring Cleanup, bringing back some of the City’s most popular offerings: Street Teams, Shred Day, and Free Bulk Trash Drop-Off. The event is set for Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to noon in the Public Works parking lot at 4916 Texas Avenue.
This year, Street Teams are back, and residents are encouraged to gather their friends, HOAs, organizations, and neighbors to claim a street, park, or neighborhood for a micro cleanup. Groups should register in advance and have at least one representative check in at Public Works at 8:30 a.m. to pick up bags and supplies. All collected trash will be consolidated at Public Works, and prizes will be awarded for Most Trash Collected.
There will also be a focused cleanup, the Hwy 3 & Oak Street Trash Bash, with check-in stations at Associated Credit Union (900 First Street) and Market on 3 (210 Highway 3). If you have any questions, we're here to help. Please email pr@cityoflamarque.org. And register for city alerts to receive updates about this and other events.
In addition to street cleanups, residents can take advantage of free bulk trash drop-off. This is a great chance to clear out garages, remove yard debris, dispose of old mattresses, or get rid of worn-out household items. Public Works staff will be on-site to help unload items, and multiple trips are welcome. Items not accepted include paint, electronics, chemicals, and cleaners, but Waste Management’s at Your Door Special Collection offers disposal options for hazardous household items.
A free, secure shred truck will also be available on a first-come, firstserved basis. Residents must remove non-paper materials like plastic tabs, paperclips, and metal supports to avoid equipment jams.
The Great American Cleanup is part of a nationwide initiative encouraging community pride, beautification, and volunteerism. For updates and registration, visit beautiful.cityoflamarque.org.
Good Fire in a Risky Place: Why Prescribed Burns Matter in the Wildland–Urban Interface FIRE DEPARTMENT
On the edges of our cities and towns, where backyards blur into brush, lies the wildland–urban interface (WUI). It’s a place of beauty and vulnerability, where people seek proximity to nature yet face increasing wildfire risk. Communities are learning a counter-intuitive truth: sometimes the best way to prevent catastrophic wildfire is to light smaller, carefully planned ones.
Reintroducing a Natural Process
Over the years, we have emphasized fire suppression. The result? A buildup of dry grasses, shrubs, and small trees, fuel that can transform a lightning strike or stray spark into a fast-moving inferno. Prescribed fire reverses this trend by intentionally reducing excess vegetation under specific weather conditions, with trained crews, detailed burn plans, and contingency resources in place.
Reducing Fuel, Reducing Risk
At its core, prescribed fire is about fuel management. By burning leaf litter, dead wood, and dense undergrowth in a controlled setting, we can lower the intensity and spread potential of future wildfires. When a wildfire enters an area that has been treated with prescribed fire, flames are often shorter, slower, and easier to contain. Homes are less likely to ignite from radiant heat or wind-driven embers.
Ecological Benefits in the Backyard
Prescribed fire rejuvenates native plants, recycles nutrients into the soil, and supports wildlife species that depend on open, patchy habitats. Low-intensity burns can thin overcrowded forests, reducing competition for water in drought-prone regions. They also help control invasive species that thrive in dense, unmanaged conditions. For residents who cherish nearby trails and open spaces, prescribed fire can mean healthier forests and more resilient landscapes over time.
Smoke Today, Less Smoke Tomorrow
One of the most visible downsides of prescribed fire is smoke. In WUI areas, where air quality and public health are top concerns, even short-term smoke events can be contentious. Fire managers emphasize a key distinction: prescribed fire produces smoke under controlled conditions, typically for a limited duration and at planned times of year. In contrast, uncontrolled wildfires can blanket entire regions in hazardous smoke for weeks. In effect, communities trade short-term, managed smoke for a reduced likelihood of prolonged, severe smoke later.
What Is Defensible Space?
Defensible space is the buffer you create between your home and the surrounding vegetation. It slows or stops the spread of wildfire and gives firefighters a safer area to defend your property. Organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) emphasize that homes are far more likely to survive when this space is properly designed and maintained. But defensible space is more than clearing brush. It’s about interrupting the path of fire, whether it travels by flames, radiant heat, or wind-driven embers.
The Three Zones of Protection
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Wildfire experts typically divide defensible space into three zones extending outward from the home.
Zone 0: The Immediate Zone (0–5 Feet)
This is the most critical area. Embers, the leading cause of home ignition, travel ahead of a wildfire. If they land in dry leaves in your gutters or mulch against your siding, ignition can happen in minutes. Best practices: Remove all dead plants and debris. Clean roofs and gutters regularly. Avoid wood mulch; use gravel or stone instead. Keep firewood and propane tanks away from the house. Replace combustible fencing where it meets the structure. Think of this zone as a “non-combustible halo” around your home.
Zone 1: The Intermediate Zone (5–30 Feet)
This area reduces heat intensity and flame length before fire reaches your home. Best practices: Space trees and shrubs to prevent fire from climbing. Trim tree branches at least 6–10 feet from the ground. Keep lawns short and well-watered (if water is available). Break up continuous vegetation with hardscaping like patios or driveways. The goal is to eliminate what firefighters call “ladder fuels”, vegetation that allows fire to climb from the ground into tree canopies.
Zone 2: The Extended
Zone (30–100+ Feet)
Here, you’re slowing fire’s advance and reducing overall fuel load. Best practices: Thin dense groupings of trees. Remove dead vegetation. Maintain separation between tree crowns. Create fuel breaks where possible.
Building Materials Matter
Defensible space works best when paired with fire-resistant construction. Key upgrades include: Fire-rated roofing (metal, tile, asphalt shingles), covered attic vents with fine mesh, dual-pane or tempered glass windows, enclosed eaves, and noncombustible decking. Retrofitting older homes can dramatically reduce risk even without major renovations.
Maintenance: The Ongoing Commitment
Defensible space isn’t a one-time weekend project. Seasonal tasks include spring debris removal, summer vegetation trimming, fall gutter cleaning, and winter inspection of vents and roofing
Community Matters
Wildfire resilience improves dramatically when entire neighborhoods participate. Communities are encouraged to collaborate on fuel reduction and emergency planning. When multiple properties maintain defensible space, fire intensity drops and firefighters can operate more safely and effectively.
A Shared Responsibility
As climate patterns shift and development expands into wildland areas, the wildland–urban interface continues to grow. Homeowners are no longer passive observers of wildfire risk. Defensible space represents a practical, evidence-based approach to protection. It doesn’t guarantee survival in extreme fire conditions, but it dramatically improves the odds. In the end, defensible space is about buying time, time for evacuation, time for firefighters, and time for your home to withstand the storm of heat and embers.
The La Marque Fire Marshal’s Office is committed to community safety and resilience through programs like this. For a free defensible space review of your property please contact the La Marque Fire Department at 409-938-9264.
An article by City of La Marque Fire Marshall Brennan Briggs.
PUBLIC WORKS
SPRING WATER CONSERVATION
Spring is a great time to focus on smart water use. As irrigation systems begin running more often, small adjustments can make a big difference.
Water lawns early in the morning to reduce evaporation
Avoid overwatering after rainfall
Check sprinkler heads for breaks or overspray into the street
Even small household leaks can waste thousands of gallons each year, so monitor your water meter and address issues quickly.
Water Line Project Update
Conserving water protects our local supply, reduces strain on infrastructure, and helps keep utility costs manageable for the entire community.
The City’s 12-Inch Water Distribution Line Project will install a new water main from Newman Road to Stonewall Street, strengthening the City’s overall water distribution system and improving reliability in the surrounding service area.
The project includes new line installation along Newman Road and connecting corridors, including McKinney Extension, Westward Avenue, Patricia Drive, and Raymond Street.
This upgrade will provide the capacity needed to supply water to the new high school, improve fire protection and system pressure, and replace aging infrastructure to enhance long-term reliability for existing neighborhoods. Construction is progressing as planned and remains on track for completion by Summer 2026.
Employee Spotlight: Lisa Perez
Lisa Perez serves as the front line of Public Works. As the Public Works Receptionist & Office Manager, she manages calls, coordinates service requests, processes paperwork, and keeps daily operations organized behind the scenes. She works closely with every division to ensure communication flows efficiently between staff and residents.
Lisa handles each task with a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for serving the community. Public Works is blessed to have her dedication and dependable support that helps keep the department running smoothly every day.
PUBLIC WORKS GRANT
Grant-Funded Leak Detection Project Puts
La Marque’s Infrastructure on the Fast Track
La Marque Public Works is advancing water conservation and infrastructure improvements through a major regional leak detection initiative funded by a no-match grant from the Harris-Galveston Subsidence District (HGSD). The grant provides up to $106,686 to support the Asterra Leak Detection Project, a cutting-edge effort using satellite-based technology to locate hidden leaks and protect the City’s water system. HGSD formally presented the grant funding during a check ceremony on February 26, following the project kickoff held on February 12.
The first satellite flyover of La Marque’s water system has already been completed, marking a key milestone in the project. Early data is now being processed, and findings will be shared with the City Council and the community as soon as analysis is complete. A second flyover is scheduled later in the project period and will help validate results and pinpoint areas where repairs can deliver the highest water-savings impact.
This regional collaboration includes the Gulf Coast Water Authority (GCWA), the City of Hitchcock, and the City of Dickinson, working alongside La Marque to reduce system loss and improve water efficiency. Across all participating entities, the project is expected to identify points of interest and confirm leaks, representing a potential savings of more than 100 million gallons of treated water annually.
In addition to the satellite survey, partner cities will receive acoustic leak detection training to improve long-term monitoring and ensure that leaks are identified and repaired more quickly in the future.
Through this partnership, La Marque is taking an innovative approach to improving and safeguarding its water system, prioritizing infrastructure, and strengthening water conservation efforts for residents and businesses today and in the years ahead.
Let the Good Times Roll at the 2026 Cajun Throwdown at La Marque Bayou Fest SPRING FESTIVAL FUN
Get ready for two unforgettable days of music, flavor, and family fun when Bayou Fest returns April 10–11, 2026, at Mac McGaffey Highland Bayou Park in La Marque. Presented by Bon Temps Rouler Cajun Throwdown Caring for Kids in partnership with the City of La Marque and Texas City—La Marque Chamber of Commerce, this signature event blends Louisiana culture with Texas-sized entertainment.
At the heart of the festival is non-stop live music, bringing together crowd favorite sounds like Zydeco, Texas Swing, Cajun Traditional, Red Dirt, and regional country. The 2026 celebration raises the bar with a headline performance by the Randy Rogers Band, continuing Bayou Fest’s tradition of hosting major acts and a packed lineup of entertainers.
Between sets, guests can dive into the festival’s legendary All-You-Can-Eat Crawfish CookOff, featuring 40+ competing teams, plus a BBQ Cook-Off, arts and crafts vendors, and plenty of local flavors. Families will find no shortage of fun with a Kids Zone, Mutton Bustin’, games, and interactive activities for all ages.
Proceeds from the event benefit local communities and the UTMB Pediatric NICU through the BTR Caring for Kids Endowment, making La Marque Bayou Fest a celebration with heart as well as soul.
Tickets are now available online, and early purchase is encouraged. Y’all come hungry, bring the family, and get ready to dance—c’est bon!
H-GAC AWARDS
City of La Marque Recognized by H-GAC for Parks and Planning Initiatives
The City of La Marque has been recognized with three Certificates of Recognition from the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) as part of its 2026 Parks and Natural Areas Awards. The honors acknowledge a range of completed projects and planning efforts that reflect the city’s thoughtful approach to public spaces and community needs.
H-GAC serves as the regional planning organization for more than 100 cities, counties, and agencies across the HoustonGalveston region. Through its Parks and Natural Areas Awards program, H-GAC highlights projects and initiatives that demonstrate strong planning practices, collaboration, and a commitment to accessibility, environmental stewardship, and quality of life.
La Marque received recognition in three distinct award categories. The Mahan Park Boat Ramp Expansion was honored in the Projects Over $500,000 category for enhancing public access to local waterways and supporting outdoor recreation. The project contributes to broader regional connectivity and recreational opportunities.
In the Projects Under $500,000 category, the Highland Bayou Park All-Inclusive Playground was recognized for its inclusive design and focus on accessibility, providing a welcoming space where children of all abilities can play and interact together.
The City was also recognized in the Planning Process / Policy Tools category for Arts in the Parks: Sensory Sidewalk Project — an initiative that integrates public art and sensory elements into park environments. The project reflects how creative planning tools can strengthen community identity while improving access and engagement.
These recognitions reflect hard work completed over time and highlight La Marque’s emphasis on people-centered planning and regional collaboration.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
CARR JACKSON
DEPARTMENT: UTILITY BILING
TITLE: UTILITY TECHNICIAN START DATE: JUNE 2024
CJ is the meter technician for the City of La Marque.
◊ What is your favorite part about working for the City of La Marque?
The best part of working for the City of La Marque is serving the community.
◊ People would be surprised if they knew:
Something that people would be surprised to learn about me is that I love going to yard sales.
◊ How do you spend your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy visiting my grandchildren.
◊ Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I hope to be retired and relaxing.
◊ How do you define success?
I define success as someone who is continuously learning and improving, and having the time and resources to do what you love.
Thank you for your dedication and service to the city. Your commitment to handling the high demand of work orders does not go unnoticed. We appreciate your hard work and dedication to serving our community.
Thank you, CJ!
New Businesses Now Open in La Marque!
Hartz Chicken Buffet is a fast-food restaurant known for its crispy fried chicken and Southern-style comfort food. Founded in Texas in 1972, the restaurant offers dine-in, take-out, and drive-thru service, with many locations featuring an all-you-caneat buffet. The menu includes crispy and baked chicken, chicken tenders, fish, homemade yeast rolls, classic sides like mashed potatoes and vegetables, and desserts, giving customers a variety of hearty Southern favorites. 3601 Texas Ave
BEAUTY
EMPIRE BEAUTY EMPIRE
13005 Delany Rd
Beauty Empire 17 is a beauty supply store that offers a variety of products designed to help customers look and feel their best. The shop features items such as hair extensions, wigs, beauty accessories, and other cosmetic and hair care products for everyday styling and self-care. The store provides a convenient local option for customers seeking quality beauty and hair products.
Coming Soon!
Forge Powersports is a powersports dealership that offers a variety of recreational and utility vehicles for both work and outdoor adventure. The business specializes in selling vehicles such as ATVs, UTVs, sideby-sides, golf carts, go-karts, and minibikes, along with off-road accessories. Their inventory is designed to support activities ranging from trail riding and recreation to property maintenance and outdoor work.
Academy Sports and Outdoors is one of the nation's largest sporting goods and outdoor retailers, with over 300 stores across 21 states. They offer a wide variety of hunting, fishing, camping gear, sporting goods, apparel, and much more. The Academy is part of a retail project that includes more than 200,000 square feet of new retail development in our city! This development will bring additional shopping, dining, and service opportunities to help meet the needs of our growing population.
Monday, May 11, 2026 | 5:30pm-7:00pm
1111 Bayou Road
La Marque, TX 77568
Showcase your photography skills, La Marque!
We want to invite you to be a part of our Spring Photo contest! This photo opportunity will help us build a library of images that showcases the beauty in our community.
Theme: Blooming in La Marque
For the Spring photo contest, we invite photographers of all ages and skill levels to capture the beauty of La Marque’s blooms. From colorful wildflowers to carefully tended gardens, we want to see the flowers that brighten our city. Share your best photos that highlight the beautiful blooms found throughout La Marque.
How to Submit Your Photos:
• You may use any camera (digital and analog) or mobile phone to create your photos. Photos should be submitted as JPEGs. Both color and black-and-white photos will be accepted.
• Please include: the photographer’s name and age, the location where the photo was taken, and a short description of the image.
• Submit your photos (max. 5 photos per entry) by scanning the QR code.
This is your chance to celebrate our community, highlight what makes La Marque special, and maybe even see your work featured in future city projects!
