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City manager reports progress on hydrants, mosquito control, transit center closure and upcoming events
Summary
City Manager Sharon Satino told the council the city has restored 85% of previously bagged fire hydrants through in‑house work, launched mosquito control on June 2 with an opt‑out option, and notified residents of a temporary Metro transit center closure June 5–13 and several summer events.
City Manager Sharon Satino delivered the city manager report at the June 2 meeting and provided multiple operational updates for Bellaire residents.
Hydrant maintenance and testing: Satino said the city has about 770 total fire hydrants; 55 had been bagged out of service. Through coordinated efforts between the fire department and public works using some overtime, staff returned about 85% of the previously bagged hydrants to service within a week. Satino said a small number of hydrants will require full replacement or contractor work beyond in‑house capabilities; staff will prioritize replacements as needed.
Mosquito control: Satino announced the city’s mosquito control program began on June 2. Residents may file an annual “no spray” request with the city; Satino also noted there is an opt‑out process through Harris County for county spraying and staff can post information directing residents to both options.
Metro transit center and temporary stops: Satino said Metro will close the transit center briefly for construction from Thursday, June 5 through Friday, June 13; temporary stops will be installed along Bellaire at South Rice during that period and no permanent traffic pattern changes were expected.
Community programs and events: Satino highlighted the recently graduated sixth Citizens Police Academy class (a 10‑week program) and several upcoming community events including a Pavilion concert on June 6, the Independence Day parade and festival on July 4 (parade begins at 9 a.m.), and a cardboard boat regatta on July 17 at the Family Aquatic Center. She reminded residents about Hurricane Season preparedness resources and the STEER program for residents with special needs in emergencies, both available on the city website.
Capital projects preview: Satino summarized items expected on upcoming agendas, including a presentation by Friese Nichols on a wastewater flow‑monitoring study and rehab plan, a proposed contract with HDR for EPA waterline project construction management, architect and budget amendments for a new public works facility, and a contract request related to rehabilitation of the REMIC water well under emergency purchase orders; staff expects to bring a full scope and cost for the REMIC project to council on July 7 for ratification.
Public works director Mark Velasquez joined the presentation to confirm the hydrant pressure had been stable in most parts of the city and offered to take pressure readings at residents’ houses on request.
