DECEMBER 2022

MATTERS

A Publication of the City of Waxahachie

Community Engagement. Each month, digital newsletters are emailed to each resident and business in Waxahachie that is signed up for our publication. Past issues are also available here. The City newsletter is a publication of the City of Waxahachie Communications and Marketing Department. To sign up to receive the digital newsletter, please visit https://bit.ly/3BsNOzi

WWW.WAXAHACHIE.COM

Contact Us 469-309-4000

[email protected]

401 S. Rogers St., Waxahachie, TX www.waxahachie.com

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Message From the City Manager As another year draws to a close, it's very rewarding to look back on everything that has been accomplished in 2022, and look forward to what is coming in 2023. Great progress is being made on several projects, including the Charles Beatty Municipal Services Building, Fire Station 4, and several streets projects. These improvements are all scheduled for completion in 2023, and will serve our City for many years to come. In addition to these tangible improvements, there are many other wonderful things taking place in our town. The Christmas season is always a special time, and even more so in a place like Waxahachie. Even as our city grows, we are fortunate to maintain our charm and warmth that make this such a wonderful community. That exact spirit was evident this week at one of my very favorite events - the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Lighted Parade. To see our Downtown full of people and the work that goes into all of the amazing parade entries is truly something to experience! The Christmas Parade was just the beginning of many activities to celebrate the season. Bethlehem Revisited returns December 2-4 and 9-11, with a step back in time 2,000 years to re-enact the night of Christ's birth. The Waxahachie Junior Service League Christmas Market will be held December 2 at the Waxahachie Civic Center. Another annual event, the Historic Waxahachie Christmas Tour of Homes will take place on December 10-11. These are just a few of the holiday offerings to be found in our community. For a complete list and calendar go to www.VisitWaxahachie.com. While these events and new amenities are certainly exciting and will help keep Waxahachie the special place that it is, it is the wonderful people who live and work here that are truly our greatest asset. From our nearly 400 City employees to all the people who call this community home, I am grateful for each of you and the contributions you make to our town. Whether visiting, enjoying holiday activities, shopping locally, or spending time with family and friends, I want to wish everyone a very blessed Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Michael Scott City Manager

WWW.WAXAHACHIE.COM

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C I T Y

U P D A T E S

New Fire Engine Construction Work is progressing on Fire Engine 4, which will be assigned to the new Fire Station 4. The driver cab has been painted and wiring for lights and radio systems have been installed as shown in recent photos. The engine is scheduled to be completed in late 2022 and is anticipated to be in service in early 2023.

Fire Station 4 Update Progress continues on the new Fire Station 4 as seen in the latest photo. This month, construction will focus on exterior and interior framing, roofing, and waterproofing. Next, crews will begin roughing in the electrical, mechanical, plumbing and fire suppression systems. Fire Station 4 will be located at 850 South Interstate IH 35-E in Waxahachie, and is on track to be completed by June 2023.

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C I T Y

U P D A T E S

Charles Beatty Municipal Complex Construction Progress Progress continues at the Charles Beatty Municipal Building in the 400 block of South Rogers Street. Sheetrock installation is moving forward with the first level 90% complete. Masonry work continues on the annex building and is complete on the retail section of the building. Storefront installations and exterior window installations will be added next. The new facility is expected to be completed in mid 2023, and will house the Planning, Public Works and Engineering, Utilities, and Building and Community Services Departments.

Eye On Water App The City of Waxahachie water meter replacement project to install residential and commercial water meters with an automatic (smart) meter reading system is currently underway. Once you have received your new smart meter, please sign up for www.eyeonwater.com/signup to access your personalized, online portal. The EyeOnWater suite offers you a direct and secure way to review and analyze your water usage data and manage water use. Meter installation will be completed by zone and is expected to be finished by late 2022. For frequently asked questions and more information, please visit www.waxahachie.com.

Historic Tax Exemption The City of Waxahachie provides a tax exemption for historic properties approved by the Heritage Preservation Commission. This exemption amounts to 25% of the city portion of assessed property taxes. The exemption must be applied for annually and completed applications are due no later than March 15. To apply for the historic property tax exemption, please visit the following link: https://bit.ly/3GJt33X

WWW.WAXAHACHIE.COM

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U P D A T E S

Finance Receives Distinguished Award Last month at a City Council meeting, our Finance Department was recognized for receiving the “Distinguished Budget Presentation Award” for the Fiscal Year 20212022 Budget. This award is the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting, given by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). This is the City of Waxahachie’s first time receiving this award. Well done team!

Employment Opportunities Come join our team! We are currently hiring for the following positions plus many more: Accounting Manager Accounting Technician Administrative Clerk Utilities Building Inspector I Environmental Technician Equipment Operator Heavy Equipment Operator

C I T Y

For a complete list of current openings and job descriptions, please visit the following link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/Waxahachie

Christmas and New Year's Day Holiday Closure Information City offices will be closed on Friday, December 23 and Monday, December 26 in observance of the Christmas holiday. Offices will also be closed on Monday, January 2 in observance of New Year's Day. Residential trash services will not be affected with both Christmas and New Year's Day falling on a Sunday. For non-emergency needs during this time, please call the Waxahachie Police Department at 469-309-4400. For emergencies, please dial 911. Have a safe and happy holiday!

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City Offices Will Be Closed For

Christmas & New Year's Day Friday, December 23 Monday, decEMBER 26 Monday, JanUARY 2

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Christmas Tree Disposal

U P D A T E S

City offices will be closed on Friday, December 23 and Monday, December 26, in observance of the Christmas holiday. Waste Connections will service up to three (3) cubic yards of bulk trash curbside once a week on your scheduled trash day. This includes Christmas trees.

NOW HIRING GREAT BENEFITS INCLUDE: Medical & Dental paid 100% by the City 2:1 Match for retirement 11 paid holidays, bonus vacation day & wellness day Longevity pay

C I T Y

Certification pay & much more!

ALL SWORN OFFICERS & CADETS WILL RECEIVE A FULL SALARY & BENEFITS ON DAY ONE - EVEN WHILE ATTENDING THE POLICE ACADEMY!

Waxahachie Police Department Now Hiring The Waxahachie Police Department is now hiring police patrol officers. Applications will be accepted through December 25, 2022. For complete information, including salary and benefits please visit: bit.ly/3Ogt18r

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED: November 15, 2022 - December 25, 2022

WAXAHACHIE SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER PRESENTS

Be a Santa to a Senior NOVEMBER 9 -DECEMBER 12 Visit the Waxahachie Senior Activity Center to pick an angel from the Angel Tree. Buy supplies listed on the angel. Money donations accepted as well. All gifts will be distributed to local nursing homes and to Meals on Wheels recipients.

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C I T Y

U P D A T E S

Bethlehem Revisited Step back in time, over 2000 years ago, and walk the streets of ancient Bethlehem as Mary and Joseph did on the night of Christ's birth. On your journey to the site of the Nativity, you will meet innkeepers, merchants, craftsmen, tradesmen, clergy, and many other citizens as they portray daily life in the City of Bethlehem, complete with sheep, camels, and donkeys. You can also visit Herod's Court and await the nightly parade of the three kings bringing their treasures to Bethlehem's newest citizen. December 2-4 December 9-11 6pm - 9pm 402 N. College Street Behind Central Presbyterian Church

Christmas Movie in the Park Join us Saturday, Dec. 3rd for a Christmas movie in the park! 6PM - "Elf" showtime Grab a blanket or lawn chair, pack a picnic dinner or dinner to-go from any of our fabulous downtown restaurants, and bring your family for a night of holiday cheer! For more information, please RailyardParkWaxahachie.com.

visit

YMCA Santa Run At this 5K Race and fun run, participants receive a five-piece Santa suit to wear during the run. Those not feeling festive can sign up for a Grinch costume and run the course backwards. For more information, please visit www.visitwaxahachie.com. December 10 Tickets Required. Railyard Park 455 S. College Street

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WFD Shield & Promotional Ceremony

Waxahachie Fire-Rescue Shield & Promotional Ceremony

December 10, 2022 9:00 A.M.

Waxahachie Senior Center 122 Park Hills Drive Waxahachie, TX 75165



Please join us as we honor the following members:

Completed Probationary Requirements: Todd Armstrong, Alex Adams, Blake Robbins, Peyton Garner

Promoted Members: Fire Marshal Brent Fuller Captain Julio Hernandez, Joey Dawson, Shane Petty, Jacob Richardson Lieutenant Larry Sodek, Jay Wilemon, Jacob Richardson, Jacob Emerson

Pump Engineer Kevin Lindsey, Joe Lynn, Seth Corder, Cameron Potter, Jeff Aycock, Daniel Morales, Jonathan Laws, Zach Macon

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Holiday Fire Safety Tips Waxahachie Fire-Rescue Department Annual Toy Drive Join us in helping our community! Now through December 17, bring a new, unused, unwrapped toy to any drop off location. Collection boxes will be located at each fire station and at Fire Administration. Distribution will take place on December 17th from 8am - 2pm at the Salvation Army, located at 620 Farley Street. Station 1: 408 W. Main Street Station 2: 1601 Cleaver Street Station 3: 200 YMCA Drive Fire Admin: 407 Water Street

Holiday Fire Safety Tips from Waxahachie Fire-Rescue If you are frying a turkey, set up the fryer on a level surface in a well ventilated area that is at least ten feet from any portion of the home that is free of combustible material. Never leave the fryer unattended and keep all children and pets away from the fryer. Keep a grease-rated fire extinguisher nearby. Make sure the turkey is completed thawed before cooking and ensure to not overfill the fryer with oil. Change your smoke detector and carbon monoxide batteries. If you can’t afford detectors or batteries or if you cannot climb a ladder, call the fire department at 469-309-4200 and we will provide you with whatever assistance you need.

Have a professional check and service your heating system. If utilized, ensure that portable heaters are located in an area where they will not be knocked over. If you have a fireplace, have it cleaned by a professional to remove built-up creosote from previous use.

Do not overload electrical circuits when decorating for Christmas. If you use a live Christmas tree, ensure to keep it watered.

We hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday season. WWW.WAXAHACHIE.COM

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Tree Lighting & Parade Photos

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Daddy Daughter Dance

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What Can Be Recycled? Newspapers, Office Paper & Magazines

can be recycled unless it is wet or has been wet. Food cardboard boxes, such as cereal boxes, are included. Corrugated boxes, such as pizza boxes, and large glued boxes are NOT accepted. Ensure all boxes are broken down.

Plastic Bottles

or other plastics with a #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, and #7 can also be recycled. The cap should be removed, and the bottle should be flattened and rinsed if possible.

Aluminum Cans

are accepted. They should be flattened if possible. Aerosol cans, paint cans, foil, pie tins, and aluminum siding is NOT accepted.

Glass

bottles and jars of all colors are accepted. They should be drained completely with the lid off. Labels may remain on the glass. Light bulbs, drinking glasses, window glass, mirrors, auto glass, tempered glass, and ceramic containers are NOT accepted.

If you have any questions regarding recycling, please call Waste Connections, Inc. at 972-289-6714.

WWW.WAXAHACHIE.COM

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Sign Up For Emergency Alerts

Click on Emergency Notification Registration to sign up for emergency alerts.

The City of Waxahachie is committed to the safety of our citizens and has plenty of available resources to address the needs of our community. One important resource is the emergency notification program. If you already signed up for emergency notifications, you do not need to sign up for Everbridge. To sign up, please visit our website at waxahachie.com. Creating a profile takes just a few minutes. Remember your username and password so you can log in and change your information at any time.

WWW.WAXAHACHIE.COM

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U P D A T E S C I T Y

Ellis County Broadband Connection Survey The Ellis County Broadband Committee, along with Connected Nation Texas (CN Texas), is asking residents, business owners, ranchers, agriculture producers, first responders, community institutions, and health care officials to participate in a 10-minute survey designed to assess internet needs and usage throughout the community. Respondents are asked to select the survey category or categories that best represents them or their organization. Residents and businesses are encouraged to share their feedback. Access the survey by visiting: https://www.connectednation.org/ellis-county-texas. “Connected Nation Texas is thrilled to be working with the Ellis County Broadband Committee,” said Sierra Sees, Broadband Solutions Manager for CN Texas. “The more data we capture from this short survey about local high-speed internet needs and usage, the better we can help the community. Please help us spread the word.” Survey data will be used to develop a technology action plan tailored to the county’s unique broadband needs. The plan will leverage community resources and identify solutions for improving internet connectivity for families, businesses, and community organizations. The Ellis County engagement is generously funded by the Meadows Foundation, headquartered in Dallas. The Meadows Foundation is “on a mission to improve the quality and circumstances of life for the people of Texas now and in the future.” To learn more about the Connected Community https://connectednation.org/connect-my-community/

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Engagement

Program,

visit:

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City Council David Hill, Mayor (Place 1) [email protected]

Chris Wright, Mayor Pro Tem (Place 3) [email protected]

Patrick Souter, Council Member (Place 2) [email protected]

Billie Wallace, Council Member (Place 4) [email protected]

Travis Smith, Council Member (Place 5) [email protected]

City Management Michael Scott, City Manager [email protected] | 469-309-4002



Albert Lawrence, Deputy City Manager [email protected] | 469-309-4001



For a complete listing of City Leadership by Department, please visit waxahachie.com.

WWW.WAXAHACHIE.COM

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Frequently Used Numbers Waxahachie City Main 469-309-4000 Utility Billing 469-309-4170 Animal Control 469-309-4400 Municipal Court 469-309-4070 Building & Community Services 469-309-4020 Civic Center 469-309-4280 Senior Center 469-309-4040 Code Enforcement 469-309-4135 Citizens Convenience Station 469-309-4270 Park Pavilion Rentals 469-309-4270

Non Emergency Fire & Police Police Dispatch 469-309-4400 Fire Dispatch 469-309-4200 *For Emergencies, call 911

COVID-19 Specific Questions 469-309-4474

USEFUL CITY OF WAXAHACHIE LINKS

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA /CityOfWaxahachie

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/CityOfWaxahachie

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