Lake Worth
LETTER FROM THE MAYOR
Community Support Makes Lake Worth Special
Dear Lake Worth Residents,
As we move into the warmer months, I would like to take a moment to thank our residents for the continued support and patience you have shown our city. Spring and summer are always an active time in Lake Worth, and this year is no exception as we continue making important investments in our community’s infrastructure.
Throughout the city, crews are working diligently to complete several largescale water, sewer, and street improvement projects. These projects represent a long-term investment in the reliability, safety, and quality of the services our residents depend on every day. While construction can sometimes create temporary inconveniences, these improvements will strengthen our infrastructure and benefit Lake Worth for many years to come. We truly appreciate your patience as this work progresses.
We are also pleased to welcome Community Waste Disposal (CWD) as Lake Worth’s new solid waste provider. CWD began providing service to our residents on April 1, 2026, and we’re working with them to deliver reliable waste and recycling services for our community. Additional service and contact information can be found later in this guide.
As summer approaches, I encourage everyone to take advantage of all that Lake Worth has to offer, from spending time outdoors with family and friends to supporting our local businesses and community events. Our city is strengthened by the pride and involvement of our residents, and we are grateful for the role each of you plays in making Lake Worth such a special place to live.
On behalf of the City Council and City staff, I wish you and your family a safe, enjoyable, and memorable summer. We look forward to seeing you around the community.
Sincerely,
Walter Bowen MAYOR OF LAKE WORTH
Our city is strengthened by the pride and involvement of our residents...
COMMUNITY PROFILE Welcome Home
Did You Know?
The Lake Worth Museum has the high school yearbooks from the 1940s to present! Make it a point to visit and take a look at the school history that is made available to all residents.
Slow down, relax, unplug, and experience the beauty and charm of Lake Worth, Texas. Located in Northwest Tarrant County, the city is home to one of the most beautiful lakes in Texas – Lake Worth.
The 2010 US Census population for the city was 4,584; Texas Municipal League estimates the current population as 4,710. The city covers approximately 2.5 square miles.
Lake Worth was built in 1914 as a reservoir and for recreation. The lake property is owned by the City of Fort Worth, while the Tarrant Regional Water District controls the reservoir’s water rights.
The City was incorporated on February 19, 1949, and first adopted its Home Rule Charter in 1965. The Home Rule Charter was amended in 1968, 2003, 2008, and most recently in 2019.
Mayor/City Council
The City operates under a Council/Manager form of government with a City Council comprised of the Mayor and seven Council members. The term of office is two years with the terms of the Mayor and three Council members expiring in odd-numbered years and the terms of the other four Council members expiring in even-numbered years. The City Manager is the chief administrative officer for the city.
City Council Meetings
The City Council meets regularly on the third Tuesday of the month. Meetings are usually at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers located at 3805 Adam Grubb Rd., Lake Worth, TX 76135.
City Administration
The Administration Department is responsible for overseeing the management of dayto-day operations of the city including building permits, code compliance, inspections, communications, and municipal court. The Administration Department is comprised of the City Manager, Director of Finance, City Secretary, and Human Resources.
City Administration
City Hall
817-237-1211
Utility Billing 817-237-1211 ext 110
Permits 817-237-1211 ext 112
Inspection Line. 817-237-1211 ext 113
Code Compliance 817-237-1211 ext 111
Vehicle Tags and Taxes 817-238-4436
Health Dept. 817-238-4441
Progressive Waste Solutions. 817-222-2221
DPS 817-238-9197
LWISD 817-306-4200
Boat Permits 817-237-6890
CONTACT INFORMATION
LAKE WORTH CITY COUNCIL
WALTER BOWEN
Mayor wbowen@lakeworthtxcc.org
JIM SMITH
Council Member, Place 1 jsmith@lakeworthtxcc.org
GEOFFREY WHITE
Council Member, Place 2 gwhite@lakeworthtxcc.org
SUE WENGER
Council Member, Place 3 swenger@lakeworthtxcc.org
RICH WALKER
Council Member, Place 4 rwalker@lakeworthtxcc.org
CITY STAFF
SHERRIE KUBALA WATKINS
Council Member, Place 5 swatkins@lakeworthtxcc.org
GARY STUARD
Council Member, Place 6 gstuard@lakeworthtxcc.org
JERRY COX
Mayor Pro Tem, Place 7 jcox@lakeworthtxcc.org
ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES
Federal Legislature
Lake Worth is located in the 12th Federal Congressional District served by U.S. Congresswoman Kay Granger. Texas is represented by Senator John Cornyn and Senator Ted Cruz.
Congressman Craig Goldman District office:
306 West Seventh St., Ste. 1145 Fort Worth, TX 76102 817-806-9474 craiggoldman.house.gov
Senator John Cornyn Dallas office: 972-239-1310 cornyn.senate.gov
Senator Ted Cruz Dallas office: 214-599-8749 cruz.senate.gov
Texas State Legislature
Lake Worth is located in Senate District 9 (Senator Kelly Hancock, who has an office in Fort Worth) and House District 99 (Representative Charlie Geren).
Senator Kelly Hancock, District 9 817-332-1131
senate.texas.gov
Rep. Charlie Geren, District 99 817-738-8333 house.texas.gov
County Commissioners Court
Lake Worth is located within Precinct 4 of Tarrant County, represented by Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez.
Commissioner Manny Ramirez 817-237-4400 mrramirez@tarrantcountytx.gov
STACEY ALMOND
City Manager
817-237-1211 ext 101 salmond@lakeworthtx.org
CARRINGTON EDDLEMAN
Finance Manager
817-237-1211 ext 103 ceddleman@lakeworthtx.org
HOLLY FIMBRES
City Secretary 817-237-1211 ext. 105 hfimbres@lakeworthtx.org
JOE VILLA
Public Works Director 817-237-1211 ext. 202 jvilla@lakeworthtx.org
BARRY BARBER
Director of Building Development 817-237-1211 ext. 114 bbarber@lakeworthtx.org
TIM MABRY
Interim Chief of Police 817-237-1211 ext. 301 tmabry@lakeworthtx.org
RYAN ARTHUR Fire Chief 817-237-1211 ext. 401 rarthur@lakeworthtx.org
LARA STROTHER
Director of Library & Community Services
817-237-1211 ext. 501 lstrother@lakeworthtx.org
MUNICIPAL COURT
Please call 817-255-7910 or visit the court’s website: LakeWorthTX.org/Municipal-Court
The court office is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm and closed for lunch from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.
TARRANT COUNTY NORTHWEST SUB-COURTHOUSE
Main Courthouse Number 817-238-4425
Northwest Sub-Courthouse 6713 Telephone Rd. Lake Worth, TX 76135
Precinct 4 Commissioner
Manny Ramirez • Ste. 301 817-237-4400
Precinct 4 Constable
Jody Johnson • Ste. 102 817-237-4410
Precinct 4 Justice of the Peace
Christopher Gregory • Ste. 201 817-238-4425
County Clerk Satellite Office* Mary Louise Nicholson • Ste. 202 817-238-4420
*Satellite Offices may have limited services
Tax Assessor/Collector Satellite Office* Rick D. Barnes • Ste. 101 817-238-4435
*Satellite Offices may have limited services
LAKE WORTH MUNICIPAL COURT
3805 Adam Grubb
Lake Worth, TX 76135
Phone: 817-255-7910
lakeworthtx.org/municipal-court
Hours: Mon - Fri 8 am - 5 pm
LINDA MELLO Municipal Court Director/ Customer Service Sup. 817-237-1211 ext. 116 lmello@lakeworthtx.org
KASANDRA GARCIA Municipal Court Clerk Community Services 817-255-7910
lcourt@lakeworthtx.org
WILLIAM “BILL” LANE | Presiding Judge JIM MINTER | Associate Judge
CRAIG MAGNUSON | Prosecutor
RENEE CULP | Associate Judge JAVIER BALDERRAMA | Associate Judge
The City of Lake Worth will be cancelling the May 2, 2026 General Election due to unopposed candidates for the offices of City Council Members for Places 1, 3, 5, and 7.
The certificate of unopposed candidates and Order of Cancellation was presented at the March 17, 2026 City Council meeting. The unopposed candidates that will be certified as being elected to office are as follows:
City Council, Place 1 Jim Smith
City Council, Place 3 Sue Wenger
City Council, Place 5 Sherrie Kubala Watkins
City Council, Place 7 Jerry Cox
These candidates are scheduled to receive their certificates of election and take their oath of office at the May 19, 2026 City Council meeting.
If you have questions regarding the City Council election, please visit the city’s website at LakeWorthTX.org/Elections call the City Secretary’s Office at 817-237-1211 ext. 105 or via e-mail at CitySecretary@LakeWorthTX.org
JOIN A BOARD OR COMMISSION SERVE THE CITY YOU LOVE
The City Secretary's Office receives applications from citizens interested in contributing to their community by volunteering to serve on a board or commission. The various boards and commissions act as an advisory board to the Council.
Appointments to boards and commissions are made annually. Places 1, 3, 5, 7 expire in odd number years and Places 2, 4, 6 expire in even numbered years unless otherwise noted by ordinance.
If you are interested in being part of our team, please complete an application and return it to the City Secretary's Office at 3805 Adam Grubb, Lake Worth, Texas 76135. You may also fax your application to 817-237-9684 or send via e-mail at CitySecretary@LakeWorthTX.org
Applications can be found on city’s website LakeWorthTX.org under "How to do I apply for Boards and Commission." Applications are forwarded to City Council for consideration of appointment as vacancies occur during the year. All applications are kept on file for one year from the date of receipt. Residents are appointed by the City Council to serve on the following boards and commissions:
Animal Shelter Advisory Committee Board of Adjustment
Planning and Zoning Commission
For additional information, please contact the City Secretary’s Office at 817-237-1211 ext.105 or via e-mail at CitySecretary@LakeWorthTX.org
POLICE DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Strong Partnerships, SAFE Community
LAKE WORTH POLICE DEPARTMENT YEAR IN REVIEW
by Tim Mabry, Interim Chief of Police
Tby J.T. Manoushagian, Chief of Police
he mission of the Lake Worth Police Department is to create a safe environment where both life and commerce thrive. This mission is carried out by the dedicated men and women of the department, who continually strive to provide excellence in service and protection. For us, there is no greater honor than serving others, and we do so here in Lake Worth with great pride. However, the department’s efforts would not be as effective without the strong partnerships we have built throughout the Lake Worth community. Thanks to the dedication of LWPD officers and the support of these community partnerships, we saw substantial reductions in crime in 2025.
COMMITTED TO REDUCING CRIME AND ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY
Through the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), Group A offenses are categorized as crimes against persons, crimes against property, and crime against society. Overall, we observed a 30% reduction in all Group A offenses in 2025 compared to 2024, equating to 222 fewer crimes reported in 2025.
A closer review of the data revealed the following trends in 2025:
• Aggravated Assault: 14 — 36% reduction
• Burglary: 14 — 22% reduction
• Fraud: 39 — 22% reduction
• Homicide: 0
• Theft: 218 — 36% reduction
• Motor Vehicle Theft: 25 — 24% reduction
• Prostitution: 0
• Robbery: 1 — 66% reduction
• Sexual Assault: 3 — two case increase
• Weapon Violations: 16 — 20% reduction
PROACTIVE POLICING INITIATIVES
The reduction in crime observed in 2025 would not have been possible without the strong investment and partnerships between the community and the dedicated men and women of the department. During 2025, the department shifted its focus toward how officers utilize their time when they are not responding to calls for service. This proactive time allows officers to concentrate on areas of concern and work collaboratively to identify solutions that lead to positive outcomes.
In 2025, the department handled 23,423 calls for service, representing a 9.6% increase compared to 2024. Of those calls, 7,822 were citizen initiated, including 9-1-1 emergency calls and non-emergency requests for assistance. The remaining 15,601 calls for service, a 14.7% increase from 2024, reflect time spent by offers engaging in proactive policing activities. These activities range from public relations contacts, security checks, assisting stranded motorists, and traffic stops.
Proactive policing extends far beyond being good stewards of officers’ time. It provides an opportunity for officers to serve as the problem solvers the community expects them to be. Officers are frequently present in neighborhoods and areas of commerce, making contact with
community members not only to maintain a visible presence, but also to learn about concerns that can be addressed.
While the benefits of proactive policing are not always reflected solely through statistics, these efforts play a critical role in building trust, strengthening relationships, and identifying and addressing issues in real-time.
TRAFFIC SAFETY
With a daytime population over 300,000, crashes are inevitable. LWPD proactively addresses crash hot-spots in an attempt to reduce the number and severity of crashes. This is accomplished by addressing hazardous driving behavior through traffic enforcement. In 2025, LWPD responded to 1,023 calls for service related to crashes. Of those, 340, or approximately 33%, resulted in a reportable crash. This represents a 13% reduction in reportable crashes when compared to 2024. Further reductions were observed in crashes resulting in injuries and non-injury crashes. Serious injury crashes increased by 2 occurrences, and fatal crashes remained at one occurrence. Traffic stops increased by approximately 6.8%, and the top five issued citations were for speeding, running a red light, failing to maintain financial responsibility (no insurance), expired registration, and no driver's license.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
When not answering calls for service or proactivity problem solving, members of the department enjoy spending quality time with members of the community in a
non-law enforcement capacity. Through a number of community engagement initiatives, we are able to develop genuine relationships. In 2025, LWPD hosted Pops with Cops, Paletas con Policias, numerous Coffee with a Cop gatherings, and National Night Out. In addition, our community came together for Operation Stuff a Cruiser, which resulted in more than $2,500 worth of gifts donated to Alliance for Children. This generous outpouring of support ensured children and families in need experienced the joy and comfort of the holiday season.
LAKE WORTH POLICE DEPARTMENT
Mark your Calendar and keep an eye on our socials for these Upcoming Community Events:
COFFEE WITH A COP
5/13 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Target Starbucks
6604 Lake Worth Blvd.
7/14 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Location to be determined
9/16 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Location to be determined
11/10 from 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Location to be determined
PALENTAS WITH THE POLICE
5/22 from 6 pm - 8 pm (Tentative)
Micholandia Palenteria
6116 Lake Worth Blvd.
POPS (POPSICLES) WITH THE COPS
6/26 from 6 pm - 8 pm
Grandlake Park
6300 Lakeside Dr.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
10/6 from 6 pm - 8 pm
City Park East
3501 Roberts Cut Off
2025 2025 ANNUAL REPORT
As we look ahead, the Lake Worth Police Department remains committed to building upon the progress achieved in 2025. The reductions in crime and continued improvements in public safety are a direct reflection of the dedication of our officers, professional staff, and the partnership with the community we proudly serve. Public safety is most effective when it is a shared responsibility, and the partnerships we
have built with our residents, businesses, and community organizations continue to make a meaningful difference. On behalf of the entire Lake Worth Police Department, I would like to thank our community for their continued support and partnership. Together, we will remain focused on ensuring that Lake Worth continues to be a safe, welcoming place where families, businesses, and visitors can thrive.
BUILDING DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
Understanding the Difference: CODE COMPLIANCE VS.
Residents frequently contact City Hall with questions regarding property concerns, permits, or neighborhood conditions. Two divisions often referenced are Code Compliance and Building Inspections. While they work closely together to protect public safety and property values, their roles and responsibilities are distinct.
Understanding the difference helps residents know who to contact and what to expect.
CODE COMPLIANCE
Promoting Community Standards Through Partnership
The Code Compliance Division administers municipal ordinances related to property maintenance, nuisance abatement, and zoning compliance. The division’s mission is to promote voluntary compliance, preserve neighborhood integrity, and maintain consistent community standards throughout the city.
Code Compliance addresses matters such as:
• High grass and weeds
• Junked or inoperable vehicles
• Accumulation of debris or rubbish
• Illegal dumping
• Outdoor storage violations
• Substandard structures
• Animal ordinance violations
• Zoning and land use compliance
Officers respond to complaints and conduct proactive patrols to identify potential concerns. When a violation is identified, property owners are notified and are provided a reasonable opportunity to correct the issue.
The city of Lake Worth prioritizes education, communication, and voluntary resolution. Formal enforcement action is pursued only when necessary to protect public health, safety, and neighborhood quality.
Code Compliance Philosophy
Our Mission:
Promote safe, clean, and well-maintained neighborhoods through education, communication, and fair application of City ordinances.
The City of Lake Worth’s Code Compliance Division is committed to:
• Encouraging voluntary compliance whenever possible
• Providing clear notice and reasonable timeframes for correction
• Applying ordinances consistently and equitably
• Treating residents and property owners with professionalism and respect
• Protecting public health, safety, and property values
Our goal is partnership, not punishment.
BUILDING INSPECTIONS
Ensuring Safe Construction & Responsible Development
The Building Inspections Division oversees construction-related activities and ensures compliance with adopted building codes, including the International Residential Code (IRC), International Building Code (IBC), and related standards adopted by City ordinance.
Building Inspections responsibilities include:
• Reviewing building permit applications
• Conducting plan reviews
• Issuing construction permits
• Performing inspections during construction
• Verifying compliance with structural, electrical, plumbing, & mechanical codes
• Issuing Certificates of Occupancy
Building Inspectors work collaboratively with property owners, contractors, and developers to ensure projects meet minimum life-safety standards before occupancy. The goal is safe, durable construction that protects occupants and preserves long-term property value.
BUILDING INSPECTIONS
Building Inspection & Development Philosophy
Our Mission:
Ensure safe, code-compliant construction while supporting responsible growth and development within Lake Worth.
The Building Inspections Division is committed to:
• Protecting life safety through consistent application of adopted building codes
• Providing timely, accurate, & profession al plan review and inspection services
• Working collaboratively with property owners, contractors, and developers
• Promoting clear communication regard ing permit & inspection requirements
• Supporting orderly growth that pre serves community character and longterm property value
Our goal is not to create obstacles — it is to ensure safe structures, quality development, and sustainable growth.
KEY DIFFERENCES AT A GLANCE
Code Compliance
• Focuses on property maintenance and nuisance standards
• Addresses existing property conditions
• Works toward voluntary correction
• Promotes neighborhood integrity
• May pursue enforcement when necessary
Building Inspections
• Focuses on building & construction codes
• Oversees new construction and remodeling
• Ensures compliance prior to occupancy
• Ensures structural and life-safety standards
• May issue stop-work orders for unsafe or unpermitted work
When to Contact Each Division
Contact Code Compliance for:
• Property maintenance concerns
• Junked vehicles or debris
• Suspected zoning violations
Contact Building Inspections for:
• Building permits
• Construction inspections
• Code requirements for new projects
When in doubt, City staff will assist in directing your inquiry to the appropriate division.
KEY CONTACTS
Director of Building Development
Barry Barber
BBarber@LakeWorthTX.org
817-237-1211 ext.114
Code Compliance Officer
Melissa Briggs
MBriggs@LakeWorthTX.org
817-237-1211 ext.120
Building Inspector / Code Compliance Officer
Joe Dickens
JDickens@LakeWorthTX.org
817-237-1211 ext.115
Planning & Zoning
Suzanne Meason
SMeason@LakeWorthTX.org
817-237-1211 ext.111
Permit Clerk
Kim Davis
KDavis@LakeWorthTX.org
817-237-1211 ext.112
FIRE DEPARTMENT UPDATE
PREPARE FOR
THE RISK OF SEVERE WEATHER THIS SPRING
Spring in North Texas brings warmer temperatures, longer days — and an increased risk of severe weather. Communities across the Dallas-Fort Worth region frequently experience strong thunderstorms, large hail, damaging winds, flash flooding, and tornadoes during this time of year. Preparing in advance is the most effective way to protect your family and property.
From March through early June, colliding warm, moist air from the Gulf and cooler, dry air from the west create ideal conditions for severe storms. Common threats include:
• Tornadoes – Rapidly developing and potentially destructive
• Large hail – Capable of damaging roofs, vehicles, and windows
• Straight-line winds – Often exceeding 60–70 mph
• Flash flooding – Particularly dangerous in low-lying and urban areas
• Lightning – A frequent hazard during severe storms
Storm systems can intensify quickly, sometimes with limited warning . Staying informed and having a plan is critical
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOME
1 Identify a Safe Shelter Area
Choose an interior room on the lowest level of your home. Avoid windows. Bathrooms, closets, or hallways are often safest.
If you live in a mobile home, identify an alternate sturdy shelter location.
2 . Secure Outdoor Items
Bring in patio furniture, grills, and any loose yard items. Trim weak tree branches. Clean gutters and drainage areas to reduce flood risk.
3 . Review Insurance Coverage
Ensure your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers wind and hail damage. Understand your deductible before storm season begins.
4 Build a Severe Weather Preparedness Kit (See sidebar)
Severe weather can develop rapidly in North Texas. Knowing what to do when severe weather strikes will help you, your family, and our community. This season, the City of Lake Worth wants everyone to be Severe Weather Ready!
HOW TO BUILD A SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS KIT
Every North Texas household should maintain a storm-ready emergency kit. Store it in or near your designated shelter area.
ESSENTIAL ITEMS:
Flashlights (with extra batteries)
NOAA weather radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)
First aid kit
If you have questions about emergency preparedness, you can contact Lake Worth Fire Administration at LWfire@LakeWorthTX .org or 817-237-1211 ext. 101
Bottled water (one gallon per person per day, for at least 3 days)
Non-perishable food (3-day supply)
Manual can opener
Phone chargers and backup battery packs
Prescription medications (3-day supply minimum)
Whistle (to signal for help)
Blankets or sleeping bags
Sturdy shoes for each household member
Copies of important documents (in a waterproof container)
Cash (power outages can disable ATMs)
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED ITEMS:
Helmets (bike or sports helmets help protect from head injuries)
Heavy-duty gloves
Dust masks
Hygiene supplies
Pet food and pet carriers
LONGTIME LAKE WORTH FIREFIGHTER RETIRES
Alongtime Lake Worth Firefighter retired after 23 years of faithful service to the community and leaves behind a legacy for others to follow as they enter the fire service.
Joe Hamilton started his career with the City of Lake Worth in October of 2002. During his tenure, he held many positions within the department to include EMS Coordinator and helped develop the foundation for this instrumental program. In May of 2023, Joe decided to come off the fire truck and transition to an administrative role as the organization’s first fire inspector. Since then, Joe has worked tirelessly to ensure all businesses in Lake Worth maintained the required fire safety requirements set forth by our governing body.
For many years, local businesses had been neglected with minimal enforcement
Real-Time EMERGENCYALERTSMATTER!
simply due to the lack of qualified personnel to take on this task. With the approval of a dedicated fire inspector position, this program flourished and truly made Lake Worth a safer place for not only our residents, but our business owners and visiting customers as well.
Fire Marshal John Sanders said, “The complexity of this position requires attention to detail and a high level of integrity to ensure equity amongst all businesses.” We thank him for his extensive effort and integrity, not only during his time in fire prevention, but throughout his lengthy fire service career.
A formal ceremony honoring Joe Hamilton’s service was conducted on February 28, 2026. Friends and family from all over Texas were there to congratulate Joe and wish him well in the future.
The City of Lake Worth has moved to a new public mass notification system powered by Everbridge! Anyone who had previously signed up with our former provider, CodeRED, was automatically added to the new system. Knowing what’s happening in real time can mean the difference between safety and
That’s why the local Lake Worth emergency alert system is so important. It gives Lake Worth emergency personnel the ability to instantly notify residents about floods, tornadoes, chemical spills, evacuations, and other critical events – to their phone, via text message, or email.
Those interested can register multiple addresses – home, work, school, or even a family member’s residence – to get alerts tailored to the places that matter most!
After 23 Years!
Don’t wait for news reports . Be the first to know!
Your information is private and used only for emergency notifications.
For more information on Everbridge or to receive assistance with registering, please contact Lake Worth Fire Administration at 817-255-7951 or LWfire@lakeworthtx.org
Scan the QR or register at: Member.Everbridge.net/ Index/101603356966977
Sign up for Emergency Notifications! Download the Everbridge mobile app .
Lake Worth Firefighter Joe Hamilton
A Field of Blue, A State of Mind
The wildflower that binds generations of Texans
by Murray Media Group
There’s a moment every spring in Texas when the landscape shifts almost overnight. One week the highways are winter-brown and unremarkable. The next, they’re ribboned in electric blue. Families pull to the shoulder. Toddlers are wrangled into smocked dresses and tiny cowboy boots. Dads lie flat in the grass to get the shot. And just like that, bluebonnet season has arrived.
In Texas, bluebonnets are more than wildflowers. They’re a rite of spring, a shared memory, and a symbol woven tightly into the state’s identity.
A STATE FLOWER WITH STAYING POWER
The bluebonnet was officially named the Texas state flower in 1901. Today, the one most of us picture — the bold, cobalt blooms with white-tipped petals — is the Texas Bluebonnet, or Lupinus texensis.
For generations, the flower has represented resilience and beauty in wideopen spaces. It thrives in harsh, rocky, or poor soil. It doesn’t need fussing. It simply returns each spring, dependable and bright.
There are also the legends. One popular Texas tale tells of a young Native American girl who sacrificed her beloved blue bead doll during a time of drought. The next morning, fields of blue flowers bloomed where her gift had rested — a story of hope and renewal that still feels fitting when the hills turn blue.
Another legend is that a group of children were playing in a field of bluebonnets and found one white and one pink one. Upon asking their grandmother, they learned the white flower signifies the Lone Star, also depicted on the state flag. The pink ones are said to honor those who sacrificed their lives at the Alamo.
IS IT ILLEGAL TO PICK BLUEBONNETS?
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not technically illegal to pick bluebonnets. There’s no specific state law prohibiting it. However, it is illegal to trespass on private property or to damage public property, including state parks and highway rightsof-way. And many cities have ordinances protecting public plantings.
More importantly, picking them is strongly discouraged. Bluebonnets reseed naturally, and leaving them undisturbed helps ensure next year’s display. There’s also the practical concern. Highways are busy, shoulders can be unstable, and safety should always come first.
The unspoken Texas rule? Take the photo. Leave the flowers.
WHY THE ROADSIDES TURN BLUE
If you’ve ever driven a Texas highway in April and wondered how miles of bluebonnets appear, you can thank thoughtful planning as much as nature.
In the 1960s, First Lady Lady Bird Johnson championed highway beautification at the national level. Here in Texas, that vision took deep root. The Texas
Department of Transportation (TxDOT), which had been planting bluebonnets since the 30s, began strategic wildflower seeding programs and adjusted mowing schedules to allow native flowers to bloom and reseed.
Instead of mowing early in the season, TxDOT typically waits until after wildflowers have gone to seed. Texas plants tens of thousands of pounds of wildflower seed annually. The goal isn’t just beauty. Native wildflowers support pollinators, prevent erosion, and require less water than non-native landscaping.
A TRADITION THAT FEELS LIKE HOME
If you grew up here, you likely have a bluebonnet photo somewhere — possibly in your Easter dress or with a sibling crying beside you. The tradition transcends generations. Grandparents who once posed now bring their own grandchildren.
It’s one of those rare rituals that feels universally Texan, with its roots going back nearly a century, or about as long as folks have been taking pictures. No tickets required. No membership necessary. Just pull over (safely), step into the grass and be part of something that’s been happening for more than a century.
For a state known for its size and bravado, the bluebonnet is a softer emblem — quietly confident, deeply rooted, and impossible to ignore when it’s in full bloom.
Follow the Blue BLUEBONNET ROAD TRIPS
Ennis – The Official Bluebonnet City of Texas
About an hour south of Dallas on highway I45, Ennis is the “Official Bluebonnet City of Texas.” It’s also home to the “Official Texas Blue bonnet Trail,” which includes more than 40 miles of mapped driving trails. The annual festival includes live music, local vendors, and fami ly-friendly activities. bluebonnettrail.org
Burnet – Bluebonnet Fest
Burnet celebrates its annual Bluebonnet Festival every year in April. Head down to join about 30,000 visitors for the live entertainment, carnival, and plenty of photo ops across rolling Hill Country land scapes. bluebonnetfestival.org
Fredericksburg – Wildflower Festival
While not solely a bluebonnet destination, Fredericksburg’s surrounding highways burst with color each spring. Wildflower drives pair beautifully with winery stops and charming Main Street shopping. thebestoftexas.org
Chappell Hill - Official State Bluebonnet Festival
The Official State Bluebonnet Festival in Chappell Hill (south of College Station) attracts about 250 vendors. It’s sponsored by the Chappell Hill Historical Society. Facebook.com/BluebonnetFestival
Before you go, check local bloom reports — timing shifts each year depending on rainfall and temperatures.
Lake Worth Shopping & Dining Guide
LAKE WORTH PLAZA
CiCi’s Pizza
Cotton Patch Café
Denny’s
Domino’s
13
.14
LAKE WORTH ISD
Lake Worth ISD Community Mentor Program Builds Meaningful Connections for Students
In Lake Worth ISD, meaningful connections are helping students grow both academically and personally through the district’s Community Mentor Program. The initiative brings together dedicated community members, district staff, and campus teams to support students through consistent mentorship and positive relationships.
The program has continued to expand thanks to strong community involvement. Cindy Burt, a Lake Worth ISD Board of Trustee, has played a key role in recruiting new mentors by reaching out across the community to encourage individuals to get involved and make a difference in the lives of Lake Worth ISD students.
The program is overseen by Dr. Sylonda Burns, Executive Director of Campus Leadership and School Improvement, who works with district and campus leaders to ensure the program reaches students who can benefit the most from additional support and encouragement.
Through a collaborative process, district and campus staff identify students who would benefit. Once matched, mentors meet regularly with their students—often during lunch periods — providing time to talk, listen, and build relationships that encourage confidence, goal setting, and personal growth.
After completing district orientation and background checks, mentors are matched with students and begin meeting with them regularly on campus. These visits may seem simple — conversations over lunch, encouragement about school, or discussions of future goals — but the impact can be significant.
“Mentorship is about building trust and showing our students that someone believes in them,” said Dr. Sylonda Burns. “These relationships help students feel seen, supported, and connected to their school community.”
The program currently includes 27 mentors serving 54 students across the district, and participation continues to grow. Mentors come from a variety of backgrounds, including community members and Lake Worth ISD staff.
Several district employees have chosen to volunteer their time to support students
by Noah Ceballos
through mentorship. Their involvement reflects the district’s commitment to investing in students beyond the classroom and creating opportunities for meaningful relationships that support student success.
“Programs like our Community Mentor Program strengthen the partnership between our schools and our community,” said Dr. Mark Ramirez, Superintendent of Lake Worth ISD. “When students have caring adults investing in them and encouraging their growth, it reinforces our mission of empowering all learners through meaningful connections to discover their future and prepare for success.”
As the program continues to grow, district leaders hope more community members will consider becoming mentors and contributing to the positive culture of support surrounding Lake Worth ISD students. Community members interested in serving as a mentor are encouraged to get connected with Lake Worth ISD to learn more about how they can become involved and make a lasting difference in the life of a student.
Through the collective efforts of community volunteers, district staff, and campus teams, the Community Mentor Program is creating lasting connections that help students feel supported, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
NEW ONLINE SERVICES MAKE MANAGING YOUR UTILITY ACCOUNT
TUTILITIES
Easier Than Ever
he City is pleased to introduce several new services designed to make managing your utility account more convenient and accessible than ever before. Residents now have access to new online tools that allow you to monitor your water usage, manage payments, and stay informed about city services—all from the comfort of your home.
One of the most helpful new resources available is EyeOnWater.com This site allows residents to monitor their water consumption in real time and set up leak alerts to help detect unusual usage early. By enrolling in this service, customers can better manage their water use and potentially prevent costly leaks before they become a larger issue.
The City has also launched a new online utility payment
portal at MunicipalOnlinePayments.com/LakeWorthTX This upgraded site offers several convenient features for customers, including the ability to:
• Sign up for auto draft payments
• Enroll in text-to-pay services
• Print account statements
• Register for paperless e-billing
• View account transactions and payment history
• Make water utility payments online
To register for the new portal, you will need your utility account number and the amount of your last payment. Please note that utility account numbers have recently been updated. Some digits have been removed to simplify the format. For example:
Old account number: 001-0001111-001
New account number: 01-00111-01
If you need assistance registering or navigating the new system, you can easily send a message directly through the website and a staff member will be happy to help.
In addition to the online portal, the City has introduced a new automated phone system (IVR) that allows customers to make payments and enroll in text-to-pay without waiting for a representative. The new toll-free payment number is 833-908-9709, making it easier and faster to handle your account by phone.
As of April 1, the City has welcomed a new trash and recycling provider. Residents can visit CommunityWasteDisposal.com/ Find-My-City/LakeWorth to find information specific to Lake Worth, including holiday closures, pickup schedules, service guidelines, and other helpful updates.
The City remains committed to improving services and providing convenient options for our residents. These new tools are designed to help you manage your utility services quickly, efficiently, and on your schedule.
Zumba
for Seniors
Zumba is an aerobic fitness workout. Originating in Colombia and inspired by Latin music and dance, Zumba classes are now held in more than 180 countries around the world. There are classes for all ages and levels of mobility – Zumba is completely customizable to fit the exercise needs of any body. The Lake Worth Senior Center offers 2 weekly Zumba classes designed with seniors in mind: Zumba Gold and Chair Zumba Gold.
To better understand what Zumba is all about, we asked our certified Zumba Instructor Yvette Rivera a few questions.
WHAT IS ZUMBA GOLD?
Zumba Gold is a modified, lowerintensity, and low-impact version of the standard Zumba fitness program designed for active older adults, beginners, or those rehabilitating from injuries. It keeps the party-like atmosphere, using Latin and international music, but simplifies the choreography to focus on balance, range of motion, and coordination.
HOW IS ZUMBA GOLD CHAIR DIFFERENT THAN ZUMBA GOLD?
Zumba Gold Chair is perfect for those with mobility or balance issues, young or old, as it is done in a chair. But the focus is on having fun! No dance experience is needed and there are no wrong moves.
Zumba Gold classes are held at the center on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3 pm.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN TEACHING ZUMBA?
It will be 10 years of teaching Zumba for me on March 4th of 2026. I started out as a Group Exercise Instructor back in 2013. I received my Group Exercise Instructor certification from AFAA/Aerobic Fitness Association of America in 2013. I have been a Zumba Instructor since March of 2016. I didn’t start teaching Zumba Gold until October of 2021 and I received my Zumba Gold certification in 2022.
WHY DID YOU BECOME A ZUMBA INSTRUCTOR?
I started going to Zumba classes and I just wanted more. I started teaching Zumba because I’m very passionate about it and it’s so much fun. It’s different and that’s why I love doing it. It’s not the typical workout because you are having so much fun.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ZUMBA GOLD?
Key benefits of Zumba Gold include:
Improved cardiovascular health
Improved joint health
Better balance
Fall prevention
Increased memory recall
Increased cognitive function
Decreased anxiety
Decreased stress
BULKY WASTE & LOOSE BRUSH
BULKY WASTE AND LOOSE BRUSH will be collected weekly, on your trash collection day. You are limited to four cubic yards of bulk and loose brush per collection. Do not place more than four cubic yards of loose brush in a pile.
One cubic yard is equivalent to approximately one washing machine.
Limbs should not be greater than six inches in diameter, should weigh no more than 150 pounds, and should not be longer than five feet. All limbs should be placed with trunks parallel to the street.
Bulky Waste - Acceptable
Toys and Yard Tools Tagged as “Bulk Item”
Furniture
Place all bulk and loose brush items next to your trash receptacles no later than 7:00 a.m. on your designated service day. Be sure the item pile is at least three feet away from carts and obstacles such as mailboxes, cars, fences, gas meters, and drainage ditches.
Have a load that exceeds the acceptable limit?
Have piles of loose brush?
Want it all picked up at once?
Please contact CWD for a price quote.
Bundled Carpet in 4-foot Lengths
Fence Panels No Larger than 4’x6’
Bagged Leaves
Washing Machines, Dryers, Water Heaters and Kitchen Appliances
Refrigerators/Freezers
(Must be tagged certifying removal of refrigerants)
Bulky Waste - Prohibited
Single Items Weighing More than 150 Pounds
Commercial Remodeling/Construction Debris
Household Hazardous Waste
(Includes paint, aerosols, motor oil, etc.)
Tires, Batteries, and Propane Tanks
Household Trash
Loose Household Debris
(Debris must be placed in a box or other disposable container no larger than 2’x2’x4’ and weigh no more than 50 pounds.)
PUBLIC WORKS
Stormwater Management: Protecting Lake Worth’s Homes and Streets
When it rains in the City of Lake Worth, water flows across rooftops, driveways, parking lots, and roadways instead of soaking naturally into the ground. As this stormwater runoff travels, it can collect oil, litter, chemicals, fertilizer, pet waste, and other pollutants. Unlike wastewater from homes, stormwater is not treated before entering storm drains. In our community, that runoff ultimately flows into local creeks and into Lake Worth—a vital recreational and environmental resource for the region.
Proper stormwater management protects public safety, reduces flooding, and preserves water quality for residents and visitors alike.
Why Stormwater Management Matters
North Texas weather can bring sudden, heavy rainfall events that overwhelm drainage systems. Effective stormwater management helps:
• Reduce street and neighborhood flooding
• Protect homes and businesses from water damage
• Maintain safe roadways during storms
• Prevent erosion of creeks and shorelines
• Improve water quality in Lake Worth
By managing runoff responsibly, the city helps safeguard infrastructure and natural resources.
How the City Manages Stormwater
The City of Lake Worth maintains a network of infrastructure designed to control and direct stormwater safely. This system includes:
• Storm drains and inlets
• Underground drainage pipes
• Open channels and culverts
• Detention and retention areas
• Routine inspection and maintenance programs
City staff regularly clear debris from storm drains and monitor drainage systems to help reduce blockages and improve performance during heavy rain.
How Residents Can Help
Stormwater protection is a shared responsibility. Residents and businesses can support clean water efforts by:
• Keeping storm drains clear of debris
• Never blowing or dumping grass clippings, trash, oil, paint, or chemicals into streets or storm drains
• Using fertilizers responsibly and avoiding application before rain
• Picking up pet waste to prevent bacteria from entering waterways
• Maintaining vehicles to prevent oil and fluid leaks
• Preserving natural drainage by not altering swales or blocking culverts
Even small actions can make a significant difference in protecting Lake Worth.
Flood Safety Tips
• Monitor weather alerts during heavy rain events
• Avoid driving through flooded roadways “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”
• Report clogged drains or standing water concerns to the city promptly
Working Together for a Stronger Community
Stormwater management plays a critical role in protecting property values, public safety, and the natural beauty of Lake Worth. By working together, the city and its residents can reduce pollution, prevent flooding, and ensure that Lake Worth remains a safe and enjoyable place to live, work, and visit.
For questions or to report drainage concerns, contact City of Lake Worth Public Works Department 817-237-1211 ext. 200
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