May 2018
Reporter T h e Ca s tl e H i l l s
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Message from Mayor Howell p.2 City Manager p.3 City Council Comments p.4-5 Motorcycle Safety p.6
City Council Highlights p.7 Code Enforcement p.8 Police Chief p. 8 Fire Department p.9 Word Search p. 9 Shop Castle Hills p. 10
Anniversaries/Promotions p. 10 Health Inspector p. 10 Tree Trimming Requirements p.11 Women's Club p. 12 City Snapshots p.14
City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
CITY COUNCIL
Message
From the Mayor
To the citizens that participated by voting in the city election, I offer you Tim Howell Mayor my sincerest “Thank you!” Our electoral process works only if we vote. Democracy is based on the “rule of the majority” and not the will and actions of a single leader. Democracy is sometimes messy, but so far it embodies the best qualities for ruling seen in ancient and modern times. This article was written before the election due to publishing/delivery time constraints, so the outcomes are still unknown at the time of penning these thoughts. I truly hope the sales tax to support our street funds is again approved by the voters. Paying a small percentage increase in sales tax helps to defer the burden of paying for the streets to all the users of our streets and not just the residents of Castle Hills. I have been reflecting of late on the past leaders of Castle Hills. Mayor Bill Martin who served as a council member from 1990 to 1993 and then as a Mayor from 1993 to 1995 passed away on February 27, 2018. Then in early April, Mayor Marcy Harper who served on council from 2000 to 2003 and then was elected Mayor three times from 2003 to 2009 also passed from this earth. Both of these dedicated citizens provided outstanding leadership for our city. Our thoughts go out to their families during this time of loss. Castle Hills incorporated in 1951, and we have grown from a rural community to a vibrant suburb. This occurred because dedicated residents joined together, identified concerns, developed a course of action, and followed through on those ideas. As you well know, streets are a major concern in the City of Castle Hills. In 1951, streets were also a major concern for the city. Ordinance No. 6 signed in to law by Mayor Yeckel on the 1st day of November 1951 required, “All male inhabitants of the Town of Castle Hills, Texas between the ages of twenty-one and forty-five, except ministers of the gospel actually engaged in the discharge of their duties, shall be compelled, and are herewith required, to work on the streets and public alleys of the Town of Castle Hills, Texas, five days each year beginning at the date of the enactment of this ordinance, or each inhabitant, as aforesaid, shall furnish a substitute, or a sum of money not to exceed one dollar for each day’s work demanded, to employ a substitute to work in his place and stead on the public property of said town.” I find this history very interesting. If you have personal knowledge, stories, photos of the early days of Castle Hills, I would love to hear and share your stories. If we do not document this information, the history might be lost. Castle Hills is my hometown. I have my perspective of the city and the other long-time residents have their perspectives. Someday each of us will leave this earthly body and before this occurs, I want us to take the time and listen, read, and learn from each other about our hometown. We the “elders” hold the keys to the history of Castle Hills. The young families moving into the community will someday be the keepers of their piece of history. Steven Spielberg shared these thoughts about history – “I think documentaries are the greatest way to educate an entire generation that doesn’t often look back to learn anything about the history that provided a safe haven for so many of us today.” Please share your memories so we can build a living history of Castle Hills. Timothy A Howell Mayor City of Castle Hills Texas 210-535-9094 mayortimhowell@gmail.com pg.2
Tim Howell Mayor JR Treviño Mayor Pro Tem Place 1 Maretta Scott Place 2 Amy McLin Place 3 Frank Paul Place 4 Douglas Gregory Place 5, Treasurer
CITY STAFF Ryan Rapelye City Manager, (210) 293-9673 Minerva Gonzales City Secretary, (210) 293-9681 TBD Finance, (210) 293-9674 Darrell Dover Fire Department Chief (210) 342-2341, ext. 217 Johnny Siemens Police Department Chief (210) 342-2341 Rick Harada Public Works & Animal Control Department Director (210) 293-9676 ALL EMERGENCIES, EMT, FIRE & POLICE CALL 911 Non-emergency (210) 342-2341 Monthly Meetings All meetings are held at City Hall unless otherwise posted. City Council 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Architectural Review Committee 1st Wednesday, 7:00pm Upon Request Board of Adjustment 4th Monday, 5:30 p.m. Upon Request Zoning Commission 1st Tuesday, 7:00pm Upon Request Crime Control & Prevention District 3rd Monday, 5:30pm As Needed
City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
MESSAGE FROM THE NEW CITY MANAGER By Ryan D. Rapelye, City Manager
I would like to thank the Mayor and the entire City Council for the opportunity to be able to serve as City Manager for this wonderful community. My job is to implement the policy goals of the Castle Hills City Council and to ensure that the City maintains services, programs and facilities which meets the need of the community in a fiscally responsible manner. In my career, I have worked for a number of municipalities ranging in populations and geographic sizes including multiple roles as Assistant City Manager for the City of Del Rio, Texas and the City of Brenham, Texas. In my career which nearly spans 18 years, I have been fortunate to work under the leadership of some very good City Managers. As a result, this has not only prepared me for this position but has helped me acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to hopefully lead this organization both effectively and progressively. Moving forward, my goal is to instill a leadership team with our department directors to work effectively with City Council and the citizens of Castle Hills. The organization already has a good foundation, we just need to build upon it. Currently, the organization already has terrific leadership in the public safety arena with Police Chief Johnny Siemens and our Fire Chief Darrell Dover. I believe it is critical to have a strong team of employees who are committed to one another, the organization and the community. I would like to have every employee understand the importance of their job and/or position and what would happen if it wasn’t completed. Every role in which an employee serves within the organization, ensures the success of the organization. Under the leadership of the City Council, the employees of Castle Hills will continue to work diligently every day with a number of organizational values which includes the aim to provide exceptional customer service, treat others with respect and act with integrity. These values will be
carried out whether you are a resident, visitor or a business employee in the community. We, as staff, will be working together with City Council to ensure the City’s strategic plan comes to fruition and provides the necessary road map for this organization. The strategic plan is vital for us as staff to understand the direction and outlines the priorities established by City Council such as infrastructure improvements, quality of life needs, fostering economic development and ensure overall transparency throughout the organization. In conjunction with the development of a strategic document, I would like to infuse a comprehensive multi-year Capital Improvements Plan(CIP) which will encompass the necessary streets and drainage improvement projects. The CIP will be aligned with the adoption of the annual fiscal year budget. Again, I thank the Mayor and Council for this opportunity, it is important that I as the City Manager and staff work with the City Council to find the right balance and work collectively to guarantee success for the City of Castle Hills. Over the last month, I have observed and evaluated current practices and/or processes within the organization and will continue this practice in order to determine the appropriate structure for us as staff to work effectively with the City Council. The City Manager’s office is committed to providing exceptional customer service in a timely manner. If the Office of the City Manager can be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our office at (210) 342.2341 or email directly at rrapleye@cityofcastlehills.com. Sincerely, Ryan D. Rapelye
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City of Castle Hills
Council Comments JR Treviño, Place 1 Friends, I can only assume that this letter finds you nearing the end of the school year and with much more stable weather. As I write these letters, approximately a month in advance, I must make a few assumptions regarding what weather may be like or what future events may be relevant. Considering that elections are around the corner, one thing that I will not assume is that I will be writing to everyone again in May. I was always taught never to take things for granted and I feel that is a widely applicable principle. Simply put, it has been my pleasure to serve our residents, our City staff, and the beautiful City of Castle Hills. In knocking on doors one of the most common questions I received was, “what have you done for our City?” The first time I heard that I was a little surprised, but it quickly became apparent that one of the challenges that I faced was effectively communicating with all of our City. Though I attempt to use a variety of mediums to connect, invariably there are people that don’t get my message. To you I apologize, as a Resident you shouldn’t have to question what your elected officials are doing for you. One of my own personal criticisms is that while I may be good at doing my job, I must be better at telling others about my job. Given the fact that this letter has little bearing on the outcome of the election, I would like to take this opportunity to recap my 2 years of services to Castle Hills. One of the biggest unforeseen challenges was the proposed construction of the charter school on S. Winston Lane. Between public meetings and the meetings with the stakeholders, the meetings were quite time consuming. I’ve come to learn that emotions can run high, and rightfully so; I’ve worked hard to show that I respect those very emotions on both sides of the issue. With a great deal of people both, for and against the construction, these emotions left Council members in a very precarious situation with no clear winner. I was often told by residents that Council was afraid of lawsuits and this was impacting the city’s position on the matter. Generally speaking, I do shy away from costly litigation; however, in this particular situation I was fully aware that the Council members were not footing the bill. It is my opinion, that we as council members have a fiduciary responsibly to be good stewards of all taxpayer’s money. In some situations, it may warrant taking the path of litigation, but in others like Basis Charter School it may mean trusting Council to do our homework, ask the hard questions, and let the process work without the need for litigation. I am in the large scale commercial renovation business, and I enjoy deconstructing things to understand their workings and often with an intent to reverse-engineer. I applied this principle to the zoning loophole which in short allows charter schools to bypass zoning in a city with less than 25,000 people, see Texas Public Education Code 12.103. I was a little disheartened to learn that charter schools can pick any piece of land on which to build with disregard to it’s zoning status. While proponents of charter schools may be “The statements and facts contained in newsletter articles from the Mayor and City Council Members are their own personal views and should not be considered official city sponsored statements or facts and should not be relied upon as such.”
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MAY 2018 okay with their loophole abilities, the perspective is often different when it may impact your daily quality of life by means of access, traffic, noise, or view. Applying my deconstructing skills, I was able to learn how the original bill was implemented. I was also able to learn that a subsequent bill could be passed which could possibly afford our City and similarly sized cities protection. Fast-forward almost 6 months later; I was able to work with our State Senator and State Representative to file bills in the Senate and in the House to help ensure responsible development in Castle Hills. For me this was HUGE. As a general contractor, my knowledge of the legislative process was minimal. I leveraged my network to access the individuals that could help me learn the process. While the bill was not targeted at Basis, nor would it have affected Basis if it was passed; it did expose a loophole that any other school may be able to utilize in the future. One thing that I’ve learned from my time in business and at Castle Hills is that what may not affect you now can certainly affect you later. Good leadership learns from mistakes. As the saying goes, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” One particular problem that will certainly affect us later are the flooding issues that we face in Castle Hills. I’ve watched for several years as people from Castle Hills have asked, pleaded, and demanded for San Antonio to address the storm water runoff that impacts Castle Hills. In my first campaign, I stressed the importance of addressing the flooding with present life safety issues. Attempting to take an alternate path, with the permission of the Mayor via the council meeting, I started by attending the 2017 San Antonio Drainage Bond Committee on November 23, 2016 only 6 months after being in office. I formally asked the City of San Antonio to allocate funding for the resolution of the flooding affecting Castle Hills. Unsuccessful, I met with several people and ended up with a series of dead ends and detours; until I came to learn about the Bexar Regional Watershed Management (BRWM). The BRWM is a partnership comprised of Bexar County, City of San Antonio, the San Antonio River Authority, the San Antonio Water System and an appointee from the Greater Bexar County Council of Cities (GBCCC); which is a subset of the Alamo Area Council of Governments. The BRWM exists to “draw upon technical expertise, leadership and resources to manage flood control and water quality.” In learning about the BRWM, Former Castle Hills City Manager Curt Van De Walle and I went to make a presentation before committee. While our presentation was well received there are many other crucial phases. As I regularly attended meetings and expressed concern for Castle Hills I was nominated to serve the as the GBCCC appointee. On March 21st, 2018 the GBCCC confirmed my appointment to the BRWM to represent the 26 municipalities in and around Bexar County. This in my opinion was Continued on page 5>>
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City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018 <<Continued from page 4
Amy McLin,
another milestone achievement. Being appointed to a position like this shows that other cities have confidence in me to work diligently for Castle Hills as well as trusting that I will work for their cities too. While the journey to this point was long and tedious by being redirected so much, every turn provided me with more insight and knowledge to better prepare myself. While I don’t believe the City of San Antonio will automatically fix our problems, I am hoping to use my position to learn how to develop a cohesive plan that will protect Castle Hills and the City of San Antonio. Castle Hills cannot afford to fix all the problems on our own. We must develop relationships with our partners and leverage them for successful resolutions. While these issues may not affect all residents, these are a couple that I am particularly proud of in my time serving you. Rest assured that I have not limited myself to just development and flooding, these issues are ones on which I feel I have made significant progress. If re-elected, I look forward to doing a better job of communicating more of our successes to you. I look forward to seeing you in the Commons enjoying our summer weather! Yours in service, JR Trevino City Council, Place 1 JTrevino@CityofCastleHills.com 210-559-5940
Maretta Scott, Place 2
I hope everyone here in Castle Hills had a fun, festive and safe Fiesta. I am so excited that our Fiesta Committee has been inspired to work to become an official Fiesta event. What a challenge and adventure to become an official part of an over 100-year old local event. A coronation, a royal court with a Queen of the Castle, a Kick-off party, a 5K run, a parade and a day long party at The Commons seem to be just the start of our own piece of Fiesta’s to come. Viva Fiesta Castle Hills! Thank you for a job well done. On a more serious note, I wanted to bring up the idea of how our perception is reality. How we perceive things is reality to us. The perception may not be the truth or even valid but it is reality to the person interpreting it. I would love to invite people to come to or watch on Ustream our city council meetings. There is a lot of communications going around the city stating things happened in meetings that is their perception and their reality. However, it does not make it true.
PLACE 3
Knowledge and education are very important. I had the great opportunity to attend the Texas Municipal League’s Leadership Academy with Alderman Scott. The Texas Municipal League Leadership Academy is a two-course, six-day program, designed to enhance the leadership skills of officials who serve Texas cities. The Leadership Academy features an impressive faculty of university professors, leaders, and governing officials who teach you to critique your decisions and actions, and develop the competencies needed to excel in your current or future leadership role. This was an inspiring and educational event! Collaboration has two different meanings. In today’s political climate, I think it is an excellent word to describe what we should be striving to do. My biggest take away from the first leadership course in April was that when you put competing interests on a chart or graph on the two axis an interesting thing happens – there are endless possibilities! If you are stubborn or maintain the status quo, nothing happens and you remain at the intersection of the axis. If both competing interests insist on being competitive, the other side gets little (if anything) and the dominate interest gets a lot. If both competing interests choose to compromise, then everything falls in the middle with neither side really happy. But, if you collaborate and really look at the reasons and basis for your interests, you can end up with everyone getting what they want. My days of believing that compromise is a requirement are over. With open and honest discussions collaboration can lead to better results. With collaboration you think about everyone’s interests and you seek ways to maximize all of them, not just your side. It is absolutely possible for our city to address more than streets and drainage. And, it is absolutely necessary that we do so. Sincerely, Amy M. McLin Alderman Place 3 P: 210.319.4488 Ext. 102 F: 210.319.4444 amclin@cityofcastlehills.com
I always receive alarming or supposed urgent information on my social media accounts regarding my safety or my children’s safety or remedies for common ailments that when they are researched on valid information sites turn out to be urban legends. Before I pass on any information, I check out the source and double check the validity of the information to make sure I am forwarding the truth and not just a scary story. With the amount of information at our fingertips these days and the ability to fact check information, there is no excuse for passing on incorrect information for shock value, entertainment, or any other motivation. As this spring quickly turns into summer I will continue to seek the truth. I will also encourage our citizens to get out and enjoy our hot but beautiful days; go try something new (like a city council meeting); and wear your sunscreen. Whichever type of sunscreen you perceive to be the best is up to you. Maretta Scott Alderman Place 2
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City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
Motorcycle Safety and Awareness Motorcycle operators are one of most vulnerable road users since they do not have the same protections as other vehicles such as air bags, seatbelts, roofs, and doors. Motorcyclists are harder to see when they are driving on the road. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and I wanted to share tips about motorcycle safety and how you can share the road safely with motorcycles. Ways to be aware of motorcycles on the road: • check your blind spots • increase your driving distance between you and the motorcyclist • use your turn signals • use caution when making left turns at intersections • play a game like Punch Buggy or Slug Bug where you are looking for motorcycles instead of Volkswagen Beetle's. Not only does this help you look for motorcycles but it will also train your kids to spot motorcycles once they become drivers Ways motorcyclists can help make other motorists aware of their presence on the road: • wear bright colors with reflective material • always drive with your headlight on and/or use a motorcycle safety light system • do not drive in the blind spot of other vehicles Riding on a motorcycle is fun; but it also can be dangerous if you do not pay attention to your surroundings. You especially need to use caution when the weather causes the road conditions to be hazardous. The weather can play a big factor in how easily you are seen by other motorists which effects your safety on the road. Motorcyclists and their passengers should wear the proper riding gear which includes the following list: • helmet • protective eyewear • full fingered gloves • jeans, chaps or leather pants • properly fitted shoe attire that is sturdy and goes above the ankle • heavy jacket DOUBLE PANE WINDOWS • MIRRORED WALLS REPLACEMENT GLASS • SHOWER ENCLOSURES GLASS TABLE TOPS Free Estimates
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The State of Texas does not require motorcycle operators or their passengers over the age of 21 to wear a helmet. However, wearing a helmet will help reduce the chance of a head injury if you are in a collision. Also, the protective attire listed above will also protect you if you are in a collision. When you are operating a motorcycle, you must drive defensively at all times. While ALL drivers have a responsibility to be aware of their surroundings, as a motorcycle operator you are one of the most exposed road users. Sadly, while I was trying to think of a traffic safety article for the May edition of the Reporter, I received news my longtime friend, Bekah Lang just lost her husband David in a motorcycle accident on March 23, 2018. While the collision that caused the loss of his life was an accident; he leaves behind a wife and four children. When you see a motorcyclist please give them plenty of space on the road to drive, that is someone’s whole world on that motorcycle. We do not need to lose another motorcyclist in a preventable accident when simply paying attention to your surroundings could save another’s life. Tina Zelenak, Court Clerk
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City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
COUNCIL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS March 13, 2018 City Council Regular Meeting Oath of Office City Manager Ryan Rapelye Council approved items: • Treasurer Report and Special Fund Balance Report for Month Ending February 28, 2018. (Trevino/Paul 5-0) • Minutes for Meetings held on December 12, December 20, 2017, and January 9, January 23, and February 13, 2018 (Trevino/Paul 5-0) Postponed Items to a future date Ordinance to Amend Chapter 49, Work in the Right of Way, Article I. by amending section 49-9(c) and (d) Construction/Excavation and Section 49-11(a)(b) and (c) Pavement Restoration Limits March 27, 2018 Special City Council Meeting • ORDINANCE 2018-03-27-A, amended Chapter 4 Alcoholic Beverages to authorize a three-day permit to sale/consume alcohol to a non-profit charitable, civic or religious organization events. March 27, 2018 City Council Work Session Council discussed: • Amending Chapter 49, Work in the Right of Way; Article 1. by amending section 49-9(c) and (d) Construction/Excavation and Section 49-11(a)(b) and (c) Pavement Restoration Limits. (Harada) • Amending Chapter 38, Streets, Sidewalks, and other Public Places; Article IV. Curb Cuts, regarding curb specifications. (Harada) • Citywide Garage Sale (McLin) • Current crosswalk on Lemonwood Drive between Castle Hills Elementary and The Commons. (Scott) April 10, 2018 City Council Regular Meeting Acknowledgements: • Proclamation for “Nelda Guerrero-Drury’s 100th Birthday”, Founder of the San Antonio Folk Dance Festival that Celebrated a 60th Anniversary in March 2018. • Certificate of Recognition for “La Reina Del Castillo”, Fiesta Castle Hills Queen and Court • Certificate of Recognition for “PAWS for Service” • Certificate of Appreciation to IBC Bank for Hosting the “Fiesta
Castle Hills Kick Off Party”, at 2201 NW Military Dr., April 19, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. • Proclamation for “Fiesta Castle Hills 9th Annual Event” on April 21, 2018. Council pending items: • Approval of Treasurer’s Report and Special Funds Report ending March 31, 2018 is subject to the Presentation of the Annual Audit. (Gregory/Paul) Council approved items: • Minutes for Meetings on February 13, February 27, and March 13, 2018. • ORDINANCE NO. 2018-04-10-A, Amending Chapter 49, Work in The Right of Way, Article I. Section 49-9(c) and(d) Construction/ Excavation and Section 49-11(a)(b) and (c) Pavement Restoration Limits, of the Code of Ordinances. (Trevino/McLin 5-0) • ORDINANCE NO. 2018-04-10-B, Amending Chapter 38, Streets and Sidewalks, and Other Public Places; Article IV - Curb Cuts, regarding curb specifications, of the Code of Ordinances. (Trevino/ McLin 5-0) • ORDINANCE NO. R2018-04-10-C, Recognizing “The San Antonio Express-News” as the City’s Official Newspaper. (Trevino/ McLin 5-0) • ORDINANCE NO. 2018-04-10-D, Clarifying the Status of Section 2-137 (17)(b) of Chapter 2 “Administration” of the Code of Ordinances, Requiring the City Manager to Refer Articles to be Included in the City Newsletter Authored by the Mayor and/or City Council Members to the City Attorney for Review. (Paul/Gregory 5-0) • ORDINANCE NO. 2018-04-10-E, Amending Chapter 1 “General Provisions”, Section 1-13, of the Code of Ordinances, pertaining to International Code Conflicts by Repealing Subsections (1) and (2); and Adopting New Subsections (1), (2), and (3). (Trevino/McLin 5-0) • ORDINANCE NO. 2018-04-10-F, Re-enacting the Juvenile Curfew. (Trevino/McLin 5-0)
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City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
POOL MAINTENANCE
Castle Hills Police Department
Happy Spring! Swimming pool maintenance time is at hand so here is a quick primer on Code sections pertaining to pools.
The end of school year is rapidly approaching, as such children will be out for summer. The end of school also marks the end of one journey and the beginning of a new one for high school Seniors; the next chapter in their lives, commonly known as High School Graduates.
Section 303.1 of the International Property Maintenance Code states that “swimming pools shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, and in good repair”. Section 8-178 of the Castle Hills Code states that swimming pools shall not be emptied in any manner whatsoever that causes any amount of water to reach any street, alley or public way in the city. In addition to spending time in pools, some folks may want to move their activities outside and perhaps may want to build an outdoor living space. Please remember that any type of construction will require a permit or permits, depending on the scope of the project as per Section 8-81. Note that the term “building” in that section shall fall under the definition in the International Code. “A “building” is anything placed in, on the surface of or above the ground or grade”. Feel free to call the Permits Dept. to inquire about exact specifics and when a permit is or is not required for any sort of project. As always, thank you submitting your complaints. Complaints are investigated and those that can legally be addressed by the city are pursued to improve the safety, health, welfare and overall quality of life for all citizens living in and visiting Castle Hills. As a private citizen, you may file an affidavit for a violation with the municipal court. For more information about Code Enforcement, Municipal Court and the Code of Ordinances, please visit: cityofcastlehills.com
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I have also spoken to my children about drinking and driving. While there are plans to celebrate graduation with dinners and parties, many Seniors find themselves peer pressured into drinking; being convinced that they are now an adult. It is this time as parents, teachers and friends that we should reinforce to our kids – our young adults about the choices they make from here on out and the consequences that may follow. Here are some tips to give your Seniors! 1. Set clear rules about not drinking and consequences for breaking them. 2. If you are hosting a graduation or prom after party, do NOT serve alcohol to anyone under age 21. 3. Take inventory of the alcohol in your home and secure it if needed. 4. Find out who is driving because one-third of the alcohol-related traffic fatalities involving teens each year occur during the prom/graduation season. 5. If a limo is rented check their policy on allowing alcohol in the vehicle. 6. Remind your teens to ALWAYS wear their seat belts not only because it’s the law, but because 70% of teens killed on prom/graduation weekends were not wearing their seat belts. 7. Don’t rent hotel rooms for your teens or allow them to attend parties that do not have chaperones.
L. Zamarron Code Enforcement
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Many will continue on to college, trade schools and some will join our military forces. Still others will go straight to the workforce. While each graduate will ultimately follow one path or another, they will still have their big day – Graduation Day! As a police officer and father of a 2018 graduating Senior, I am well aware of the tragedies that often occur around the country at this time. I have always instilled in my son to be vigilant of his surroundings, to be safe, and to help those who cannot help themselves.
8. Talk to other parents about post-event activities to ensure alcohol won’t be present. 9. AND MOST IMPORTANT - Be available to provide a timely and safe ride home if needed and let them know that they should call you if they need a ride or get into a situation they know isn’t safe – no matter what time it is – no matter where they are, no matter the circumstances. Congratulations to the parents and graduating Seniors on this milestone! Have a safe summer and as always, report suspicious activity! Captain E. Zuniga
City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
SUMMER!
NEW TRUCK Hello everyone! I’d like to take the time in this article to tell you a little bit about the new ladder truck, and the need to raise the tree height to fourteen feet. As most of you already know, the current tree ordinance was changed from a 12’ to 14’ maintained clearance over all streets to allow adequate room for fire apparatus, and other vehicles. The new ladder truck is approximately 12 ½’ tall, that is almost a foot taller than the previous ladder truck. Unfortunately, we as a department have no control over the overall height of the truck. We purchase the apparatus based on the need for our city. Our old ladder truck is being retired after 20 years of service. The new ladder was purchased with the intent to keep it in frontline service for the next 20 years. The new ladder truck has a 100’ working height, along with an elevated platform, and a 2000 GPM Pump. The previous truck only had a 75’ working height with no platform, and a 1500 GPM pump. The platform allows for a much safer working area for firefighters during firefighter operations. It also allows for safer rescue operations in the event we must bring a victim down from a high elevation. With the platform, we can place the victim inside an enclosed area with firefighters and lower them down to the ground without requiring them to have to climb down the ladder. Additionally, the old ladder truck loses its ISO (Insurance Services Office) credit at the end of this year. ISO advises home insurance companies on insurance rates and recommendations. We cannot always rely on outside agencies to respond with another ladder truck. Additionally, we may not have the time to wait for an outside agency to respond and we must act quickly. We often work incidents that can change with little time to react, and we must be prepared for the worst. Without raising the tree height, we run the risk of damage to the trucks, and longer response times. In the last 19 years, we have had to replace numerous lights, and equipment on the old ladder truck due to low tree limbs. We have sustained heavy damage to the control box that houses the hydraulic lines and controls for the ladder; including having to remount the control box twice, because it was literally knocked off of the truck because of a struck tree limb. In the future, if there is damage to any of the fire equipment, you as the homeowner and your insurance company may be responsible for the repair cost. With the current ordinance, any tree limb falling below the 14’ mark over the roadway must be trimmed to maintain the 14’ clearance. Any limbs above the 14’ mark can stay. We are not asking for all tree limbs to be removed, only those that are 14’ and below. We realize that this may change some of the ascetics of our beautiful city. We would not ask you to trim the trees if it was not absolutely necessary. If you need assistance measuring tree height, please contact the department at 210-342-2341, and we will gladly come out and measure for you. We appreciate your understanding and help in keeping our city safe. If we can be of any assistance at all, please do not hesitate to call us. Have a safe and happy summer! Chief Darrell Dover Castle Hills Fire Department
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SUNGLASSES SUNSCREEN SUNSHINE SWIMMING VACATION WATER PLAY
May is Older Americans Month In celebration of Older Americans Month first celebrated in 1963, The Village at Incarnate Word recognizes the invaluable resources of those who have paved the way for us today. In celebration, we invite everyone to the following FREE events.
Age Strong! Live Long! Walk
Join us as we celebrate Older Americans Month with a one mile walk around the track at the University of the Incarnate Word. Stay engaged, active and involved with your fellow residents and friends! Complimentary refreshments. Shuttle service will be available from The Village at Incarnate Word to/from the track. Participants who pre-register will receive a free t-shirt. Thursday, May 3 8:00 a.m. Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium, UIW 4301 Broadway
Engage at Every Age Symposium
Get engaged as you spend the day with us learning, laughing and living life! We’ll explore new opportunities to Connect and have fun while doing it. Let’s get physical with a dance/exercise session. We’ll play some games and have a painting party! Lunch, supplies and refreshments will be provided: pre-registration required. Thursday, May 17 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Lunch provided (RSVP Required) CHRISTUS Heritage Hall at The Village at Incarnate Word 4707 Broadway
Ask the Experts
Sponsored by Kameron Chicoine with Senior Living Choices. Do you have questions about the different levels of senior living? Do you know what rehabilitation facilities are and when you may need one? Would you like answers about how to plan for your loved ones or yourself? Get a chance to ask a panel of senior industry experts on these topics and more. Seating is limited; pre-registration required. Tuesday, May 29 6:00 p.m. Dinner provided (RSVP Required) CHRISTUS Heritage Hall at The Village at Incarnate Word 4707 Broadway To RSVP or for more information, please call Maria Reyna at 210-829-7561, ext. 162 4707 Broadway St., San Antonio, Texas 78209 www.iwretire.org Lic. #'s 000777(AL-A), 101505 (AL-B), 100473 (ALZ), 011872 (HCSSA)
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City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
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CASTLE HILLS New Businesses San Antonio Metro Ministries – Non-Profit Flynn & O’Hara Uniforms – Uniform Retailer Thrive Head and Spinal Care – Medical Castle Hills Family Practice–Rehabilitation - Medical Body Meltdown –Weight Loss Spa Stokes and Associates Training – Life Coaching Services Tule Mexican Restaurant – Restaurant Key Testing – Professional Services Angelica Guzman, LPC, NCC – Behavioral Healthcare
ANNIVERSARIES: 1 year - Luis Zamarron – Code Enforcement 1 year – Nicole Bane – Dispatch 1 year – Minerva Gonzales – Administration 5 years – John Siemens – Police Department
Jumping for Joy Trampolines have become a novelty among children and you want to see them happy and jumping for joy, so you decide to buy them one. Or, you decide you would rather take them to a trampoline park instead. Either way, you should do your homework. If you do your homework, you will soon be able to see the kids jumping for joy. If you don’t do your homework, you could face the risk of having to take them to the emergency room for a busted head or broken bones. Before loading the kids in the backseat and heading to the nearest trampoline park you should first visit the facility yourself. Ask yourself the following questions: Does the facility appear to be clean? Is the staff actively supervising activities or are they only paying attention to what is on their cell phone? What cleaning products and procedures are being used? (If EPA registered hospital grade disinfectants and anti-microbials are used you can avoid norovirus and staph infections.) After you visit several facilities select the cleanest and best supervised.
NEW EMPLOYEES Jalen Brady – Police Department Garrett Earlywine – Police Department
FAREWELL: A special farewell to Marcial Rivera, Lead Dispatch who is leaving employment with the City of Castle Hills to join his wife whose employment relocated their family to another state. Marcial has proven himself to be an excellent supervisor and dispatcher who will be missed by all. We wish Marcial and his wife all the best!
You can also check how other customers rate the operation on websites such as Yelp. Here are some you want to avoid: “When the kids came out, one said that dust flew when she jumped in. Out of 4 kids, three came out of it coughing and with runny noses. Two who had asthma later had difficulty breathing.” “The place is still a total dive, plays seriously explicit music and allows abusive customers to harass others.” If you elect to purchase a trampoline for the backyard be sure to check on liability insurance you might need and follow these U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommendations: • Place the trampoline away from structures, trees, and other play areas. • Use shock absorbing pads that completely cover its springs, hooks, and frame. • Always supervise children who use a trampoline.
Insured & Bonded
• Do not use a ladder with the trampoline because it provides unsupervised access to small children. • Use a trampoline enclosure to prevent jumpers from falling off.
NO JOB TOO SMALL--WE DO IT ALL •Residential •Commercial
(210) 684-8500 License TECL # 30576
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Don’t forget before you take the kids to a trampoline center do your homework and visit the operation. A copy of the CPSC trampoline safety guidelines is available at the following Website: http://www. foodsafesa.com/trampoline-safety Homer Emery, RS City Health Inspector
City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
New Tree Trimming Requirements Effective January 1, 2018, all trees, shrubs, vines, hedges, palms or other vegetation that overhangs or obtrudes upon any pavement, roadway, alley, or curb must be trimmed to a minimum of 14 feet during all weather conditions. Vegetation may remain at 12 feet minimum clearance over sidewalks. The new platform fire truck is now in service. If you do not raise the canopy of your trees over the roadway and the platform truck is damaged, you will be responsible for the repair expenses. The council agreed to waive enforcement (court summons) until September 1st. This does not remove liability if damages occur. The city prohibits the cutting of oak trees from February 1st through June 30th to help prevent the spread of oak wilt by the nitidulid beetle. The city does allow emergency trimming to protect persons and property during this time, but it is imperative that the cuts to the oak trees be painted immediately. If your tree canopy over the roadway or alleys needs to be raised to 14 feet, you will be issued an emergency permit. Homeowners trimming their own trees are asked to get a permit at no charge. If you hire someone to raise the canopy they must obtain a permit. If you are unsure if your tree canopy is below 14 feet, please contact the Fire Department at (210) 342-2341 and the fire fighters as a courtesy will come out and measure your trees. Thank you for trimming your trees to protect our new fire apparatus and ensure a quick response in an emergency. If you have questions regarding tree trimming, please contact the Permit Office at (210) 293-9675.
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City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
Castle Hills Woman's Club
Greetings from the Castle Hills Woman’s Club. Since its founding in 1952, the Castle Hills Woman’s Club has been a multigenerational collaboration of dedicated women who have contributed their time and talents toward countless civic, charitable and social projects in the City of Castle Hills. We will be ending our 65th year in May but will resume once again in September. Our officers will be working over the summer, planning programs that are both enjoyable and informative. Our current motto is “Good Works. Good Friends. Good Times.” If you are interested in obtaining more information about joining our wonderful club or have any other questions, please feel free to email me at barnesrus@sbcglobal.net or castlehillswomansclub@ gmail.com Bernie Barnes President - CHWC
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MUSIC OUTDOORS PICNIC POOL POPSICLE ROAD TRIP SPRINKLER
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MAY 2018
City of Castle Hills
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City of Castle Hills
CITY SNAPSHOTS
On March 25th the Castle Hills Fire Department had the inaugural “Push-in” of the new fire truck Platform 109.
Fire Chief Dover and Sparky the Fire Dog joined the Easter Bunny at the Castle Hills Eggstravaganza on Saturday, March 25th. The event was hosted by the Castle Hills Community Organization.
Mayor Pro Tem Trevino visited with restaurant owners John Russ and his wife, Elise Russ at the ribbon cutting on March 1st for the Grand Opening of Clementine’s Restaurant at 2195 NW Military Hwy.
President and CEO Navarra Williams of SAMMinistries On March 29th the Castle Hills Woman’s Club welcomes guest and cuts the ribbon at the grand opening of hosted a ribbon cutting at Creative Civilizations the SAMMinistries new headquarters at 1919 NW Loop 410. Advertising located at 1100 NW Loop 410 Suite 800. Al Aguilar and Lissa Martinez join Mayor Pro Tem Trevino in cutting the ribbon.
METRO PAINTING & HOME IMPROVEMENTS Carpentry • Tile • Dry Wall • Pressure Washing Painting • Interior • Exterior Call for Free Estimates David Espinoza, Owner
210-749-9434
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MAY 2018
Judge Loza administered the Oath of Office at the Swearing in of Officer Garrett Earlywine and Officer Jalen Brady. Both officers are recent graduates of Alamo Area Regional Law Enforcement Academy and began Field Training on April 16th with the Castle Hills Police Department.
N T TO M A K E $S O WA M E E X T R A M O N E Y$ ? We are looking for advertising sales people in your area! • Work at home • Set your own hours • Work in or around Your Neighborhood Send an e-mail telling us a bit about yourself to: sales@neighborhoodnews.com with the neighborhood/area you are interested in, in the subject line.
City of Castle Hills
MAY 2018
WE TAKE CARE OF OUR NEIGHBORS.
We know accidents and illnesses don’t just happen from 9 to 5.
Visit: MHSER.com DOWNLOAD the FREE ER WAIT TIME app on your iOS or Android device.
Search: Methodist ER
OFFICIAL HEALTH CARE PROVIDER OF UTSA ATHLETICS. GO ROADRUNNERS!
©2016, Methodist Healthcare System of San Antonio, Ltd., L.L.P. 0516-20926
Methodist Texsan Hospital offers 24/7 expert emergency care Without long waits – and our ER is right in your neighborhood. We are known for our heart program, Joint Replacement Academy, and Inpatient Rehabilitation Center, as well as our full-service emergency department that treats all levels of emergencies and pains.
Proud supporter of UTSA Athletics pg.15
City of Castle Hills 209 Lemonwood Drive San Antonio, TX 78213
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• Maintenance-free living • Housekeeping, linen and laundry services • Extensive social calendar • Fitness center, water aerobics and exercise classes • Golf, tennis and social privileges at The Club at Sonterra • Pets Welcome/Dog Park • No more property taxes or homeowners insurance • Full Service Apartments and Assisted Living available (Lic #100102) RSVP by May 28th
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