The Harbor
The City of Rockwall has been notified that one of the companies associated with the Harbor development, Mariah Bay Leasing Corporation, has filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the federal Bankruptcy Code.  This property is located in the Harbor Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District that was created by the city to fund the public improvements the city constructed at the Harbor, including roads, utilities, spray fountains, walkways and other public enhancements located along the lake edge. 

The City issued debt to pay for the public improvements and that debt is paid for through the property and sales taxes that are collected within the TIF. 

This property owner is one of a total of 38 property owners that pay property taxes into the TIF, which incorporates a total of 113 acres.  The total property taxes owed to the city under the TIF equals $ 529,419.  This number includes taxes collected by the county and pledged to the city for the TIF.  The total collected in the TIF to date equals $300,050.  The Harbor development, which includes this property owner as well as several others, has paid a total of $256,061.  They still owe a total of  $223,063, only a portion of which is owed by this particular company.  Property taxes are still owed and payable even in the event of a bankruptcy.  These dollars will be collected by the city.  Sales taxes continue to be paid by the tenants and the businesses will continue to operate.

The developer has indicated that they have every intention of addressing their financing issues and come out of this in a stronger and better position.  The city has every confidence that the long term prospects for the Harbor as a successful business development in the City of Rockwall are strong and this area will continue to be an asset to the community.

Free Chlorine Maintenance
The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) and the City of Rockwall would likeall of its customers to be aware that free chlorine maintenance will be conducted on the Wyliewater transmission system and the City’s distribution systems for a 30 day period from February 19, 2010, to March 25, 2010.
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Get the latest Zoning Case Information
Check out our Current Zoning Cases page for the latest information
Current Zoning Cases Page...

2010 Census
The Census Bureau has launched a critical national effort for every person in our nation to “Be Counted” in the 2010 Census that will effect the apportionment of congressional seats and how the federal government annually allocates $300 billion in federal assistance to communities.

Operations have already begun, and the Census Bureau needs to recruit hundreds of workers in the area to ensure a complete count in 2010.

Call the Census job line at (866) 861-2010 to schedule a basic employment test.

Water Quality
The NTMWD has confirmed that a winter algal bloom is occurring in Lavon Lake. Taste and odor changes in treated drinking water caused by blooms may be detected by our consumers who are more sensitive to these changes. The taste and odor is a palatability issue only. The palatability change that results from a naturally occurring algal bloom does not alter the quality of the water provided to the cities and the communities served by NTMWD. The water supply remains safe for use with no health risks created by these events.

The following links provide additional information:
Winter Algal Blooms (Specific)
A general fact sheet about Winter Algal Blooms.

Taste and Odor (General)
Includes a general fact sheet about taste and odor, a summer bloom information page, and a winter bloom information page.

Ozonation
Includes brief information about ozonation benefits and the NTMWD ozonation implementation plan at the Wylie Water Treatment Plants.

Skywarn Storm Classses
When: Thursday, March 11, 2010
Where: Rockwall County Library Community Room
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

What can you do to help protect yourself, your family and your neighbors?  Consider becoming a trained Skywarn Storm Spotter. A trained spotter knows the weather threats in Texas, safety rules, and visual clues regarding thunderstorm strength.

These classes are free of charge and are open to anyone who has an interest in severe weather and/or public service.  All course materials are provided, and a certificate of completion will be given at the end of the class.

For additional information please contact the Rockwall County Emergency Management Office at 972-204-7080 or emergencymanagement@rockwallcountytexas.com.

Low Cost Animal Shot and
Microchip Clinic
Rockwall Animal Services is hosting a low cost shot and microchip clinic on March 20th from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. at the Rockwall Animal Adoption Center, 1825 Airport Rd.

All dogs must be on a leash, and all cats in a carrier. Rabies shots will be offered as a 1 year for $9 or 3 year for $24. All other basic shots will be given for dogs at $9 each or $18 for a 3 year shot. All dogs and cats in the city limits are required to be vaccinated against rabies at either one 1 year or 3 year intervals, depending on the type of vaccine used. Leptospirosis will be offered for dogs at $12 for a 1 year. Heartworm test for dogs will be $20, and they are recommended annually.
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Tethering Ordinance
A new ordinance was recently approved by the Rockwall City Council regarding tethering of dogs.

The ordinance went into effect December 21 with a 30-day grace period for residents to comply.

Tethering refers to tying or chaining dogs to a stationary object or stake. It does not apply to walking dogs on a leash.

Dogs can be tethered while on the owner’s premises and:

• Its owner remains with the dog; or
• The dog may be tethered unattended on the owner’s premises for a maximum time of 120 minutes in a 24-hour period.

The dog must be at least 15 feet from the road or sidewalk at all times if tethered.

The ordinance was implemented based on research submitted by the U.S. Humane Society and the Centers for Disease Control, which indicates that tethering causes increased aggressive behavior in dogs and leads to a greater risk of people being bitten. When dogs are kept chained in one place for an extended period of time, they can become anxious and aggressive. Tethered dogs are also easier targets for attacks by other animals.

Violation of the city ordinance is a Class C misdemeanor that carries a maximum fine of $500 per animal, per occurrence.

The ordinance also addresses alternatives to tethering and requirements for dog runs and pens. A copy of the ordinance is available at City Hall or online at www.rockwall.com under the Animal Services Department.

For more information, please call the Animal Services Department at 972-771-7750.