Pearland mayor proclaims National Public Works Week; graduates of 'University of Pearland' recognized

Mayor Quintin Wills opened the May 18 Pearland City Council meeting by reading a proclamation declaring May 20–23, 2026, as National Public Works Week in Pearland and thanking public works staff for their role in maintaining the city's infrastructure. "Therefore, I, Quintin Wills, by the power vested in me as the mayor of the city of Pearland, Texas, hereby proclaim May '20 to 05/23/2026 as National Public Works Week," he said.

The meeting also included recognition for participants who completed the city's "University of Pearland" civic‑engagement program. Thea Curry Fussen, one of the graduates introduced at the podium, said the program "showed me how great this city is and how it actually runs" and encouraged others to enroll.

During the public‑comment period, several residents raised neighborhood concerns. Abel Marino, representing Colony Park, said a neighboring property keeps five pit bulls and described related odor and noise problems that neighbors have reported to code enforcement and animal control. "We have a neighbor that, has 5 pit bulls ... the smell is really, really bad," Marino said, asking the council to pursue a resolution through code enforcement.

Another resident urged the council to accelerate work on Hickory Phase 2 park to preserve space for local soccer programs; he warned delays could leave about 300 players without fields. A third commenter recounted a recent eviction that left a local family temporarily living on their front lawn and publicly thanked Mayor Pro Tem Chavarria, staff members Joel Hardy and Epperson, the Pearland Police Department and neighborhood volunteers for assisting the family.

The council took no formal action during public comment and proceeded to the consent agenda.