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Building Dept./Code Enforcement

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1. Do I have to get a permit to work on my own home?

This will depend on the nature or kind of work being performed. You will need to contact the Building and Development Department (2751 SH 35 Bypass; 361-790-1125) to determine if a permit is required or not.

2. How much does a building permit cost?

Recently, Governor Abbott signed H.B. 852, which does not allow a municipality to consider the value of the dwelling or the cost of construction on improving the dwelling when determining the cost of a permit. These are the dominant methods used by cities, including Rockport, to calculate building permit fees.

With the bill becoming effective immediately, Rockport did not have the opportunity to develop a comprehensive, alternative fee schedules that comply with the Legislature’s mandate.  Until  the City is able to develop a comprehensive plan, it will be using the International Code Council’s (ICC) Building Code’s square foot methodology for determining fees as an interim measure. (Residential permits $0.60 a sq.ft. all other trades $0.10 sq.ft.). Once the City’s fee schedule is developed and adopted by City Council, it will be posted on the web site.

3. How long does it take to get a building permit?

According to State Law (Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., ch. 917, 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2005. For text of section as added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., ch. 1130, 1. see 214.904 post), a building permit application will be approved or denied within forty-five (45) days. However, the goal of the Building Department is to complete plan review and have a building permit ready to issue within ten (10) business days for one and two family residential and twenty (20) days for all other development. This, however, depends on the number of applications ahead of you, resubmittal of plan corrections or other requested items (engineering, etc.), which may extend the overall time period.

4. What type of work requires a permit?

All work pertaining to building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical, unless exempted by the adopted codes. For a list of exemptions, call the Building and Development Department (361-790-1125) or go by that office at 2751 SH 35 Bypass.

5. How do I schedule a building inspection?

Call the Building Dept. Inspection Line at (361) 790-1177.

6. What codes does the city enforce?

2012 International Building Codes, 2008 International Electrical Codes, City Zoning Ordinance, City Tree & Landscape Ordinance, and other applicable city ordinances and state laws.

7. What do I do if I have a complaint?

You may file a written complaint, e-mail (see "Fix-It Form" on home page), or phone in your complaint to 790-1125. Common violations include trash, junk or high weeds in the City, a dangerous house, or abandoned cars on public or private property.

8. Does the City accept anonymous complaints?

Yes. Unless otherwise requested by the complainant, all complaints remain anonymous.

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Candidates for Election/Committees

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1. What are the requirements to be a candidate for election?

Candidates must be registered to vote, must have been full-time residents of the city for at least one year prior to qualifying, and must not hold any other elective office.

2. When may I begin raising campaign funds?

A potential candidate may begin raising funds at any time after filing designation of a campaign treasurer and bank designation with the City Secretary. The campaign account must be separate from any personal accounts and used only for depositing campaign funds and making campaign expenditures.

3. How do I apply to serve on a board or committee?

Vacancies on boards and committees are filled in June of each year.
Notification that applications are being accepted is posted on the home page of this website in May, with a link to the Application form. The notification is also posted at City Hall and published in the official newspaper of the City of Rockport.
You may also contact the City Secretary at 729-2213 ext. 225, for additional information.

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General

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1. What are City Hall's hours of operation?

8 am - 5 pm, Monday - Friday

2. What is the City's current population?

The 2010 U.S. Census Bureau estimate is 9,357.

3. What is the sales tax rate for Rockport?

Inside the city limits of Rockport, the sales tax rate is 0.825.

4. What is the current tax rate?

the 2013 tax rate is .451963.

5. When are City Council meetings held?

See "Calendar" at home page of this website.
Generally, Council meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month, at 6:30 p.m., at Rockport City Hall, 622 E. Market St.

6. How do I get on the City Council Agenda?

Submit your written request to the City Secretary by e-mail at citysec@cityofrockport.com. Include information about the matter you wish to discuss with Council and how to contact you in case there are any questions. You may also hand-deliver your request to City Hall (622 E. Market St.). You will be advised of the date of the meeting on which you are on the agenda.

7. What are the fax numbers for City offices?

City Hall 790-5966
Police Dept. 729-3461
Public Works 729-7672
Building Dept. 729-6476
Utility Customer Service 790-1165

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Human Resources

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1. What positions are currently available?

We have our available jobs posted on this site. See Departments, Human Resources.

2. What is the hiring process?

Dept. Heads will notify the Asst. City Secretary of vacancy and an internal posting will occur for 3 working days to allow current employees the opportunity to advance in the City service. Only after all internal applicants have been reviewed without a hire will the position be advertised outside the City. The job posting will then be placed on our website and posted in the window of City Hall. Applications may be obtained from the Asst. City Secretary. Applications will be given out only for vacant positions and will not be retained for future employment consideration once the vacant position has been filled. Each Department will interview and make selection for hiring.

3. What type of benefits does the City offer?

The City of Rockport pays for the majority of the medical premiums and all of the dental and vision insurance for each full time active employee, as well as a $15,000.00 life insurance policy. All full time active employees contribute 7% of their gross income into a retirement system and the City matches on a 2 for 1 basis. All non-exempt full time active employees earn 1 day per month of vacation time for less than 10 years, 1.25 days for 10 to 14 years, and 1.5 days for 15 years. Exempt employees earn 1.25 days for less than 10 years and 1.5 days for 10 years or more. All full time active employees earn one day per month of sick leave. Employees who voluntarily pursue additional education or training during their off duty hours may petition to have a portion of the tuition and book costs reimbursed. Additionally, employees may be eligible for certification pay as a result of advanced training and education.

4. Where do I send my application and/or resume for a job posting?

City of Rockport Attn: Asst. City Secretary 2751 SH 35 Bypass. Rockport, Texas 78382 Email: hr@cityofrockport.com Fax: 361-790-5966

5. May I apply on-line?

No. However, you may print out on-line application (go to Departments, Human Resources). Then mail (2751 SH 35 Bypass, Rockport, TX 78382), fax (361-790-5966), or e-mail it to the Assistant City Secretary (admin@cityofrockport.com).

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Municipal Court

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1. Whom do I contact if I have a traffic ticket?

You may call the Municipal Court office at City Hall - 729-2213, Ext. 237/239, or come by the office at 622 E. Market St., prior to your arraignment date.

2. What if I'm unable to be in court when scheduled?

You may call the Municipal Court office atl - 729-2213, Ext. 237/239, or come by the office at 402 E. Laurel St., prior to your arraignment date.

3. May I make payments?

There are two types of payment options: 30-day pay plan and extended pay plan. All city tickets are 402 E. Laurel St..

4. May I take a defensive driving course?

Yes, but only for moving violations. You must furnish a valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License and a valid insurance policy, and pay an administrative fee. You must furnish a Texas certified driving record.

5. I have proof of insurance. Can this charge be dismissed?

Yes, after verifying insurance coverage was valid on the date the citation was received. It is against the law to furnish to the Court a fictitious insurance card and incorrect mailing and physical address.

6. Will you dismiss an expired motor vehicle inspection, expired license plate and/or expired Texas driver's license?

Yes, if it has not been expired more than 60 days and proof is shown of renewal. There will be a dismissal fee - contact Court Clerk.

7. What if I request a trial?

If you enter a plea of not guilty and request a trial date in writing, the Court will inform you of the trial date. You may request either a trial by judge or trial by jury.

8. What are the rules of conduct and attire in Municipal Court?

CONDUCT:

Pursuant to section 46.03 of the Texas Penal Code and judicial order of the Municipal Court of Rockport, Texas, the possession of any firearm, illegal knife, club or any other weapon set forth in section 46.05 (a), Texas Penal Code, in the Municipal Court, City Hall building or any office utilized by the Municipal Court is strictly prohibited.

All persons who enter the City Hall building or the Municipal Court are subject to a search of their persons and belongings for prohibited weapons. All persons who enter said buildings consent to the search.

To represent yourself in a court of law properly, be aware of the rules listed below:
Be on time.
Address the Court as “judge” or “your honor.”
Do nothing to disturb or distract the Court. Children must not create a disturbance or they will be kept out of the courtroom. All cell phones and pagers must be turned off or put on vibrate.
Do not approach the bench without permission. Do not lean or rest on the judge’s bench.
No food or drinks will be allowed in the courtroom.
Racist, sexist, obscene or profane language or gestures are prohibited unless they pertain to a case and you have to quote from facts in a case.
Do not crowd the clerk’s bench. One person at a time is allowed to stand in front of each clerk.

ATTIRE:
Unacceptable attire includes, but is not limited to:
1. Shorts and cut-offs.
2. Muscle shirts and clothing with offensive vulgar, racist, sexist, obscene or suggestive slogans, depictions or pictures.
3. Clothing that is too tight or too short.
4. Hats must be removed before entering the courtroom and while in the courtroom.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. Where can I find out about special events in Rockport?

Events sponsored by the City are listed under the Community Calendar/City Sponsored Events on this website. Also view listings by the Chamber of Commerce under About Rockport/Links to Other Community Organizations.

2. Are there volunteer opportunities?

Yes! Volunteers are needed for our city boards and committees. You can make a difference in your community by volunteering your time and knowledge. Also, the Parks & Leisure Services Department can use volunteers to assist with special events, or apply your special skills and training in leading a class or special program.

3. Does the City of Rockport have facilities available to rent for special occasions? Weddings?

Yes. Parks & Leisure Services has a variety of facilities and locations for your special occasion, including the large picnic shelter surrounded by live oaks at Memorial Park, the gazebo with a bay view at Compass Rose Park, and the gazebo at historic, plant-filled Zachary Taylor Arboretum Park. Direct inquiries or request a reservation through the Parks & Leisure Services Office at 402 E. Laurel St., at 361-727-2158, or by e-mail at parks3@cityofrockport.com. Also on this website, see Departments/Parks & Leisure/Park Rentals.

4. Where are the parks located in Rockport?

COMMUNITY AQUATIC & SKATE PARK ----- 2001 Stadium Drive. 12 acres; two pools; street-style skate park; picnic areas; nature trail; 2-5 yr. old play unit.

COMPASS ROSE (formerly Triangle) PARK ----- 811 Hwy. 35 North. Ornamental, with view of Little Bay. Contains a registered labyrinth.

MATHIS PARK ----- 801 South Live Oak Street. Basketball, swings, picnic site, neighborhood park.

MEMORIAL PARK ----- 1601 North Pearl Street. The largest multi-activity city community park.

SPENCER PARK ----- 400 East Bay. Neighborhood park.

TULE PARK ----- 2105 Picton Lane. "Open space."

WATER STREET HIKE & BIKE TRAIL ----- Paved pedestrian lane paralleling Aransas Bay.

WETLAND POND/DEMO GARDENS ----- Hwy. 35 North. Boardwalk and nature trail adjoining wetland with wildlife viewing. Also a 0.8 mile (one way; 1.6 mile round-trip) historic trail ending at Little Bay.

ZACHARY TAYLOR ARBORETUM PARK ----- 702 S. Pearl Street. Ornamental.

5. Are dogs permitted in Rockport city parks?

Yes, dogs are permitted on leash at all Rockport city parks.

6. Is there an "off leash" dog park?

Yes, there is a 2-acre, fenced, wooded dog park at Memorial Park. There are separate small- and large-dog areas.

7. Is alcohol permitted in Rockport city parks?

No.

8. Is there a park with a hike & bike trail?

Yes, Memorial Park has a beautiful 1.6 mile asphalt trail that winds through live oak habitat and around a 2.6 acre lake. Tule Hike & Bike, a 1-mile long concrete trail, is accessed at the north entrance into Walmart.

9. Are there basketball courts?

Yes, Memorial Park has a full-length basketball court. Courts are also available at Mathis and Spencer Parks.

10. Are there athletic fields available for use? Is there a fee?

Memorial Park has 3 soccer fields, 1 softball field and 2 baseball fields, available first come/first serve without charge. These fields may also be reserved with fee.

11. Is there a place for skateboarding?

Yes, a 6,000 square foot, street-style skate park is located at the Community Aquatic Park, 2011 Stadium Drive. Enter through the aquatic park to access the skate park. There is a $1 use fee, minimum age is 10 years, and helmets are required.

12. Is the Community Aquatic & Skate Park open year-round?

Yes, the multi-purpose pool is heated and open all year. The splash & spray pool is open from May through September.

13. Is there a time for lap swim? Swim lessons?

Yes, please call 361-727-9989, check the monthly aquatic park schedule at the pool, or check this website for the current schedule.

14. Is there a water aerobics or workout class?

Yes, water aerobic classes are offered year-round. Call 361-727-9989 for details.

15. May I bring food and drinks into the Aquatic Park?

No, but food items, drinks and snacks are available from our concession. There is a drinking fountain in the lobby.

16. May I drop my children at the pool?

Yes, if they are at least 10 years old. Otherwise, an underage guest must be accompanied by someone at least 16 years old.

17. May I rent a pool for a party?

Yes, both pools and the skate park are available for rent. Call 361-727-9989 for more information.

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Police Dept. - Non-Emergency

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1. Under what circumstances should I call the Police Dept.?

Call (361) 729-1111 for non-emergency situations such as:
You hear loud noises;
You hear a car or building alarm;
You see a disabled motorist;
You see a traffic light that does not work.

2. Under what circumstances should I call the CrimeStoppers Hotline?

Call (361) 729-8477 (729-TIPS) if:
You have information about a crime;
You have information on a missing child;
You have information about an arson fire.

3. How is a case assigned?

All crime reports made to the Rockport Police Department are sent to the Criminal Investigation Division Commander for review and assignment. These reports are then distributed to the appropriate investigative unit that handles that type of crime, i.e. Crimes against Person, Crimes against Property, Narcotics Division and the Special Crimes Unit.

When a case is assigned for investigation, the assigned detective will contact the victim of the case within 48 hours of receiving the assigned case. During the course of the investigation, the assigned detective will contact the victim and update them on the progress of the case. When a final conclusion is reached the detective will contact the victim and advise him the case was completed and the final disposition. In those instances where no information was developed for investigation or prosecution, the case will be considered inactive. Should new information be developed, the case can be reopened for additional investigation.

4. How do I find out about my case?

If you have been a victim of a crime in the City of Rockport, you are first encouraged to contact the Rockport Police Department to make a report. If you have made a report of your crime but have not been contacted by a detective, you may check the status of your case by calling 790-1101, 790-1102 or 790-1105 to find out which detective has your case. If you already know the name of the detective assigned to your case, you may call or email the detective directly using the information provided below. If the detective is not available, you may leave a message and you should be contacted soon after your message is received.

Jerry Lawing, Commander
361-790-1105
jlawing@cityofrockport.com

Javier Lopez, Lieutenant
361-790-1106
jlopez@cityofrockport.com

James Wilson, Detective
361-790-1107
jwilson@cityofrockport.com

Gene Yarnall, Detective
361-790-1108
cyarnall@cityofrockport.com

Lauro Garcia, Detective
361-790-1109
lgarcia@cityofrockport.com

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Public Works

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1. Whom should I contact with questions about problems with my sewer service?

Contact the Public Works department at 361-790-1160 regarding sewer interruptions.

2. Whom should I contact with questions about leaks/problems with my water service?

Contact the Public Works Department at 361-790-1160 regarding water problems/leaks.

3. Whom do I call about a gas leak?

Call 911 and report it.
They will contact necessary personnel to resolve the problem.

4. How do I report a street light problem?

Report the physical address and the pole number to Public Works Office, 361-790-1160. Office hours are 7 am - 4 pm, Monday - Friday.

5. How do I get help with street problems?

Call the Public Works Dept. (361) 790-1160 (M-F 7am-4pm)
or the non-emergency Police Dept. number 729-1111 (after 4pm and weekends)
about matters such as:
Potholes or other street problems, hazardous sidewalks, flooding, an open fire hydrant, or a missing or damaged manhole cover.

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Utilities

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1. Where can I sign up for utilities?

For water and wastewater service on the Live Oak Peninsula and natural gas service within Aransas County, sign up at 402 E. Laurel St., by calling 361-729-2213, Ext. 234 or using the online application listed under Utility Customer Service.

2. Why is my gas bill so high?

The following is provided by the Railroad Commission of Texas:

WHY IS MY GAS BILL SO HIGH???
Why is my gas bill so high? It wasn’t high last month or even last year.

Because the price paid by your utility for natural gas fluctuates from month to month due to free market economic factors. The utility must purchase the natural gas commodity every day to assure a constant supply for its customers. The price it pays is market based. That is, the price your utility pays is based on supply and demand for gas in the market place. The utility bills you for that cost through the Gas Cost Adjustment (GCA) or Gas Cost Recovery (GCR).

How does the Gas Cost Adjustment (GCA) work?

The cost of natural gas changes daily. Because of these fluctuations, regulatory authorities have created the GCA factor to insure that the actual cost of gas is passed on to consumers. Since the base amount on a consumer’s bill does not include the cost of gas, the GCA is used by the utility to recover the actual cost it paid for gas during a particular billing cycle. Some utilities adjust this cost factor on a monthly, quarterly or semi-annually basis. The longer adjustment periods may result in a delayed impact on the consumers’ monthly bill during times of wide fluctuations in the price of natural gas.

Consumers’ gas bills fluctuate monthly because of:

The amount of gas consumed in your home, and
The market price paid by your utility to supply gas to you for heating your home, heating water, cooking and supplying gas to other appliances.
.Who regulates the price of natural gas?

Currently, neither the Railroad Commission nor any other governmental entity regulates the price of natural gas. The price is determined by competition. The companies that supply gas to your utility compete for your utility’s business.

Who makes all the profit on the cost of gas?

The only entity that is not allowed to earn a profit on the cost of gas is your utility!

Profit is earned by the royalty owners of the minerals in the ground, the companies that drill for and produce the natural gas, the plant operators that process the natural gas for residential and commercial consumption, the pipeline companies that transport the natural gas from the field to your utility, and the marketers that buy and sell the natural gas to your utility.

Are you sure the utility doesn’t earn a profit on the GCA?

Yes. Each regulatory authority, whether it is the city where you are located or the Railroad Commission of Texas, has the regulatory burden to assure the consumer that the utility does not earn a profit on the GCA. The Railroad Commission of Texas has an audit staff that periodically audits all utilities to assure that only the cost of gas is passed on to the consumer, no more or less.

My bill is so high. What can I do?

Your utility has payment alternatives that are offered to assist its consumers in spreading out your payment. You will need to contact your utility to determine if you qualify for these payment alternatives.

Do I have to pay my bill?

Yes. Just like your electric bill, telephone bill, cable bill, rent or mortgage, you MUST pay for the gas you consumed. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to pay your bill. If you need assistance, contact your utility.

3. What recycling options are available?

The City of Rockport offers every other week, curbside, single stream (i.e. you do not have to sort recyclables) residential recycling through a contract with our sanitation collection service provider, Republic Services.  The day of the week your recycling is picked up depends on your service address.  A map of the routes and pick up dates may be found here.

At this time the following items can be recycled:

• Any plastic with a recycling triangle  
• Aluminum and other metal cans (please rinse first)
• Any paper, including catalogues, copy paper, magazines, newspaper, paperboard boxes (e.g. cereal boxes, shoe boxes) and writing paper.
• Cardboard no larger than 24 inches x 24 inches.  Please breakdown boxes.

A complete list is available by visiting the Utility Services Department page.  Unfortunately, at this time glass cannot be recycled because no processing facility exists in the region.  

Additionally, U.S. and State environmental regulations prohibit the collection of the following items:

• Paint
• Light bulbs (The Lowes store in Aransas Pass collects CFL bulbs in the customer service/returns area at the entrance to the store)
• Automotive fluids (most automotive repair shops and auto parts stores will collect some or all fluids – call ahead first)
• Batteries (Lowes in Aransas Pass collects rechargeable batteries)
• Plastic shopping bags (HEB and Walmart have collection bins at the entrances to their stores)
• Electronics, e.g. computers, televisions.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has additional information on recycling, including textiles and electronics. Please call Republic Services at (800) 640-2014 if you have further questions about the recycling program.

For more information on recycling, visit : https://www.inmyarea.com/internet/guide/recycling-disposal-of-home-gadgets-and-devices

Table in English and Spanish

4. When will my garbage be picked up?

The day of the week your garbage is picked up depends on your service address. The 2022 calendar and route map are available by clicking this link

U.S. and State environmental regulations prohibit the collection of the following items:

• Paint

• Light bulbs (The Lowes store in Aransas Pass collects CFL bulbs in the customer service/returns area at the entrance to the store)

• Automotive fluids (most automotive repair shops and auto parts stores will collect some or all fluids – call ahead first)

• Batteries (Lowes in Aransas Pass collect rechargeable batteries)

• Plastic shopping bags (HEB and Walmart have collection bins at the entrances to their stores)

• Electronics, e.g. computers, televisions.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has additional information on recycling, including textiles and electronics. 

Please call Republic Waste at (800) 640-2014 for more information.