Upcoming Activities: CASA Cookie Walk, Christmas Activities, Economic Conference
If you’re decorating your Christmas tree and you’re looking for that special ornament, come see our local one.
For the fifth year, the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce has commissioned a Christmas ornament, and this year it celebrates Heritage Park!
The shipment is expected on Wednesday and there is a limited supply (70) and the cost is $40. If you would like to purchase one, drop by our office at 110 Main St. while supplies last!
The Chamber office will be closed Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving.
Directories
Work has started on the 2023 Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Directory. We distribute over 7,000 of these directories to visitors, relocation hopefuls, and even hometown heroes who are interested in learning more about our local businesses. They include historical information as well all things to the see and do in Hopkins County. The best part is, they include an alphabetical and categorical listing of your business.
LeeAnn Peugh, with Echo Publishing, will be contacting you in the next few weeks to see if you are interested in placing an ad in the directory.
The rates are affordable, and one of the best ways to represent your business. You may also contact the Chamber, and I will pass your information along to her.
Economic Development Conference
If you would like a crystal ball to see into the economic future, then you’ll want to get a glimpse of what the experts are saying at the annual Economic Development Conference, set for Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
Aaron Demerson, commissioner representing employers of the Texas Workforce Commission, is our keynote speaker. Mr. Demerson will present to Hopkins County the economic outlook for Northeast Texas for 2023. He serves as an advocate for over 555,000 Texas employers and his office provides a variety of resources, including training and assistance with hiring, managing and recruitment.
Tickets and tables are both available. Sponsorship tables are available on three different levels and individual tickets are sold for $20 each. For sponsorship opportunities or individual tickets, contact the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Sponsorships must be in by Nov. 30 to be included in the program.
Cookie Walk
The annual Lake Country Cookie Walk is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, Dec. 2, at First United Methodist Church. It’s a great time to stock up on treats for yourself, your business or your friends and neighbors.
For more information, call 903-885-1173 or go to LakeCountryCASA.org.
Christmas Activities
If it’s November, it means Christmas is coming, and the Lions Club will help you get in the Christmas spirit when they host their 16th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade on Friday, Dec. 2.
If you’d like to register for the parade, contact the Chamber at [email protected] and we can email you a form. Entries will be graded in three categories: large business, small business and non-profit.
The parade will start at 7 p.m.
- Also on that day, the city’s Christmas tree will be lit at 5:45 p.m. downtown.
- The Chamber will also be offering free photos with Santa at the Chamber office, 110 Main St., from 5-7 p.m.
- Christmas in Heritage Park will be from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 26 and Dec. 3. Admission is $3; children under 7 are free. You can visit with Santa, see light displays and live nativity, roast marshmallows and enjoy free hot cocoa and old fashioned cider. You can also start your Christmas shopping in the country store!
- RPM Staffing Professionals will host its 2 nd Annual Stockings for Seniors, with donations directly benefitting Rock Creek Health and Rehabilitation. Donations items include but are not limited to Chapstick, books, socks, denture cleaner, hand lotion, etc. Contact RPM at 903-439-1022 or drop off donations at 401 Church St., Suite B.
- First Baptist Church of Sulphur Springs will present Christmas at First, a celebration of the sights, sounds and the true meaning of Christmas, at 6 p.m. each day Dec. 10 and 11. Reserve your free tickets are SSFBC.org.
Caring by Preparing
Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home is offering a Caring By Preparing seminar on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 112:30 a.m. at the their new building at 876 Wildcat Way.
The complimentary lunch is provided by Murray-Orwosky, and RSVPs are needed by calling 903-885-133.
The seminar will including understanding your options for cremation and burial, how to plan and protect your funeral dollars and what most people don’t know about pre-planning.
Ribbon Cuttings
- The Barn of Emory, located at 550 Rains County Road 3425 in Emory, hosted an open house and ribbon cutting on Friday, Nov. 18. Following the ribbon cutting, there was visitation with vendors, music and a movie.
- Corner Grubhouse hosted a ribbon cutting for their new breakfast menu, located next door to the main restaurant on Connally Street, on Thursday, Nov. 17. The new venue is also available for meetings and gatherings.
- At noon on Thursday, Nov. 17, 101 Barbershop, located at 101 Bill Bradford Drive, hosted a ribbon cutting. Please welcome them.
- Top Notch Realty, located at 468 Shannon Road, Suite 14B, hosted a ribbon cutting on Tuesday,
Nov. 15. - Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home debuted its new facility on Wildcat Way with an open house on
Tuesday, Nov. 15.
CEFCO Convenience Store Sign Variance Request Receives Limited Conditional Approval
A convenience store sign variance request received limited conditional approval from the Zoning Board of Adjustment and Appeals Tuesday evening.
CEFCO asked to be allowed two signs for a total of 465.7-square feet of signage, including a high rise sign 100 feet tall with 144-square feet of sign, plus a price sign that is 321.7-square feet. The city’s sign ordinance caps pole signs at 150 square feet in size, requires a 15-foot setback from the property line and 40 foot height limitation.
That means CEFCO asks for a variance of 60 feet in height and 315.7-square feet in size, which would be 150% in excessive height and 210.5% in excess of size requirements.
Assistant City Manager Manager/Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski said the city sent certified letters to 14 residents within 200 feet of the property, notifying them of the variance request. The city received one response in favor of, and one in opposition to the request. The opposition expressed concern about light being detrimental to the residential neighborhood that backs up to the site.
Niewiadomski told the ZBA at the board’s Nov. 22 meeting that the airport director was consulted. He reviewed an aeronautical study for the site and found that the proposal does not present a hazard to air navigation. However, if approved, any temporary construction equipment that exceeds 100 feet above grade level would require additional notice to the FAA.
The Hillcrest Drive overpass and trees along I-30 west were sited as hardships which could limit visibility of the sign to interstate traffic, which could be a difficulty in being competitive with other surrounding businesses.
The planned convenience store will have four lanes of diesel for vehicles powered by the fuel, but would not be a truck stop as it does not have long-term parking for trucks to lodge overnight.
Niewiadomski noted there are some trees blocking exposure of the sign from the east, however, some of those trees likely will be removed when the store is built and signs go up. Currently, the existing billboard can be seen by traffic from the west despite the overpass, and the sign is not 100 feet tall. City staff recommended the sign be 40 feet tall, which should still make the sign visible for convenience store, while protecting the neighborhood to the north from light pollution.
It is customary for stations that sell fuel to advertise gas prices on a sign, the assistant city manager noted. For instance, Love’s was granted a variance for a sign and ended up putting up a digital sign that’s 9-feet, 8 inches by 19 foot, four inches for a total of 187 square feet and changes between diesel and gas prices, Niewiadomski noted.
Elevation and trees were reported to be factors in granting a sign variance for Love’s, on the southwest side of I-30 and the Hillcrest Drive (SH 19) overpass.
CEFCO representative Guy Slimp noted the existing billboard at the location presents difficulty, as it can’t be placed in front of the billboard, but still needs to be seen from I-30. CEFCO tried to buy the billboard but the owner does not want to sell it. He said the business is primarily focusing on westbound traffic as eastbound traffic on I-30 would be more likely to frequent the businesses on the south side of I-30. He indicated a desire to alert motorists, especially trucks, far enough prior to the exit that they have time to safely get over and exit I-30.
Texas Department of Transportation is still scheduled to evaluate the exit, and is expected to move hte exit back further east, which would require motorist to be able to see the signs even further back so they can get over sooner to exit, officials noted. Niewiadomski said TxDOT has been amenable to a traffic light in the area to help with traffic direction on SH 19 in the area of the overpass.
ZBA member Kyle Robinson said more information is needed regarding elevations in the area compared to other signs approved for similar businesses. ZBA member Kevin Mohl said the station’s location in relationship to the sign should also be considered. It would not be fair to give say Love’s a variance but not CEFCO. Both said they could approve the size recommended by the city staff, then if the sign isn’t visible the business could return before the city officials to note that and again request a variance based on that.
The ZBA agreed with the recommendation of city staff, approving up to a 40-foot tall pole sign along Industrial Drive, with up to 331 square feet of total sign area to balance communications efficiency and to preserve environmental quality and preservation. The business will be required to follow any and all requirements of the FAA for constructing the sign as referenced to the communication for the airport director.
Other Business
The Zoning Board of Adjustments also welcomed Gary Clem to the board Tuesday night, approved the minutes of the last meeting on Jan. 25, 2022, a temporary use permit for a construction trailer during construction of a on Wildcat Way and modifications to a special use permit for Ladera RV Resort to be constructed at 1229 Loop 301.
Niewiadomski noted that board likely will be called to meet in December to discuss at least one variance. ZBA meets at 5:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month, when needed.
4 Fields Discipleship Training Seminar to be Held January 2023
Zoning Board Approves Special Use Permit For RV Resort, Temporary Construction Trailer
Sulphur Springs Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals Tuesday night, Nov. 22, approved a special use permit for an RV Resort and another for a temporary construction trailer for a bank.
Construction Trailer For New Bank
The ZBA approved a request for a special use permit allowing First National Bank of East Texas to have a temporary construction trailer on property located on Wildcat Way, west of the new Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home property west to State Highway 19 and north to Rockdale Road. The trailer would be a mobile building, on the site temporarily while a new bank building is being constructed on the property.
Jonathan Jackson of Quitman this week reported the trailer will be a manufactured home, it will be up to building and utility standards, only to be while the permanent bank is being built. The trailer would more or less be located in the center of the 20-acre property, with the permanent building to be built further northwest, closer to Rockdale Road. Once the trailer is removed the pad it sat on and remainder of the property be used either for future development in the area or, if needed, for bank expansion, so a concrete pad site for the trailer should not be an issue.
According to Jackson, the plan is to begin work on the site immediately, and have the bank branch up within 12 months of the actual start of construction.
City staff have received some modular drawings for the project and are comfortable with the request, but with a stipulation the construction trailer can only remain on the site for 18 month.
The Zoning Board approved the request for the special use permit allowing the construction trailer on site for up to 18 months, during construction of the bank only. If construction is not completed within 18 months, the applicant would be required to again submit for consideration, by both the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Zoning Board, another request to extend the special use permit allowing the construction trailer to remain on site.
RV Resort Modification
The Zoning Board of Adjustments approved a request from Cole Heitman to modify the special use permit he was granted in July 2021 for construction of Ladera RV Resort on approximately 49 acres of land located at 1229 Loop 301, which wraps around other properties from Jefferson Street to Loop 301 east. The permit is contingent upon a few requirements, including the stipulation that Heitman will be required to reapply for another special use permit if any adjustments are made to the plan, as was the case with approval of the initial permit in 2021 after a detailed plan and concept drawings were presented.
This week’s request was due to 10 modifications, made after consulting with engineers. Engineered drawings of the site required adjustments to the original concept plan approved by city officials in July 2021.
Notices were sent by the city to 22 property owners within 200 feet of the planned RV site but ,as was the case with notices sent for the construction trailer at the proposed bank site, the city received no responses either for or against the special use permit request for Ladera.
After reviewing the modification request, Assistant City MAnager/Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski said he felt comfortable with modifications 1-4, but felt that modification 5 should remain in place to help ensure the park remains a recreational site and not a residence.
- Modification 1 — The site layout changed. No longer are sites planned compact in the middle of the property. The current proposal is to have a cul-de-sac along the west property line which would extend closer to Jefferson Street.
- Modification 2 — The number of slips planned changed. Instead of a 100 total slips, the current plan is for 128 slips.
- Modification 3 — The size and type of fence changed as well. In July 2021, Heitman proposed a 6.5-foot tall masonry fence abutting residential properties and a 6-foot wooden fence around the rest of the property. The modification would be for an 8-foot tall wooden fence abutting residential properties.
Niewiadomski said city staff members are comfortable with the fencing change since the overall change puts more distance between the planned property use and abutting residential property. The fence also would be 8 feet tall, creating more privacy for all.
Heitman noted the wooden fence is better for drainage beneath it. There are also trees which provide a 5-6-foot buffer from nearby houses. Also, a fence with tall vegetation obscuring the view between the planned RV park property and Paris Junior College-Sulphur Springs Center currently is to remain in place. At the other end of the property a 4.5 foot tall fence with barbed wire atop it would allow those staying in the park to view and enjoy watching cattle kept nearby.
When asked what action could be taken if a fence, wooden or other, is allowed to deteriorate without improvements, Niewiadomski noted those could be addressed in accordance with City Codes by a Code Enforcement officer.
- Modification 4 — The size or RV sites would be smaller to allow for the 28 additional slips. Previously, RV sites were planned at 35×65-feet, with pull-through slips averaging 75-feet, concrete pads that are 16×50 feet long and east site would accommodate a Class A vehicle 48-foot in length. The modification would reduce RV sites to 34×60-feet, with pull through slips an average of 5-feet smaller, concrete pads reduced to 10×40 feet long and will be able to accommodate a 40-foot RV.
- Modification 5 — The restriction on long-term stays was changed in the modification request. Instead of limiting long-term stays to 40% of resort capacity, Heitman proposed having no restriction on percentage.
Concern was expressed that, without a restriction on long-term stays, the park could potentially become a permanent residential site for some or even all of the property. A mobile home park would not be consistent with city plans for the area. Spaces can be rented for up 1 month, but not in longer increments, and only 48 slips would be available for long-term rentals, which would still be less than 40% of the total capacity, which would be 51 slips.
RVs will need to be 10 years or newer, to meet all utility and other required codes, and renters must showing proof, Heitman noted.
- Modification 6 — Staff hours are proposed to be expanded to have staff on site 7-days a week. Previously, the front desk was to open only from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. The new proposal would have someone on duty to work the front desk from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday-Sunday.
Niewiadomski said he sees have more staff on-site for longer periods 7-days a week as an improvement. He also received confirmation that quiet hours also are still planned to begin at 10 p.m. and end at 8 a.m. daily at Ladera RV Resort.
- Modification 7 — The redesign does not include a kids splash pad.
- Modification 8 — Eight 1-2 room cabins to be located around a retention pond also were removed from the revised proposal.
Changing up the design, moving things around, and removing cabins and a kids splash pad will allow for 10 additional full hook up concrete slips and the focal point and big feature will be a pool. City staff made no recommendation to the ZBA regarding modifications 7 and 8, but the P&Z Commission recommended approving the request to remove the splash pad and cabins.t to approve or deny the removal of these items as sticking points for the special use permit. The ZBA agreed with the Planning & Zoning Commission recommendation.
- Modification 9 — Phase 1 of construction expands the number of full hook up concrete slips from 50 to 68, and includes a temporary welcome center, workshop, recycled asphalt streets, fencing and a playground. Phase 1 would still include all wet/dry utilities, a laundry, and restroom/shower facilities.
Niewiadomski said city staff recommended that the developer be required to pave or concrete all driving surfaces, and stipulating the temporary welcome center be replaced with a permanent center within 24 months after completion of Phase 1.
Modification 10 — With the splash pad and 8 cabins removed, Phase 2 would include 60 full hook up concrete slips, 10 more than previously planned; Welcome Center and Camp Store; Grand Event Pavilion; a second playground on the other end of the complex; and RV trailer storage facility. Those who choose may also take advantage of a fishing pond to be incorporated in Phase 2.
Heitman said the plan includes adding a brick patio onto the concrete slips. The entrance drive would be concrete, then the roadway would be turn to recycled asphalt. The surface planned should hold a fire truck. Heitman assured the base would be 6-inches, with 5 inches of aggregate asphalt millings on top.
City officials also recommend that Phase 2 commence within 24 months of completion of Phase 1. This would ensure the amenities proposed are implemented in the project and that the temporary welcome center be removed and replaced with the permanent welcome center.
Heitman doesn’t anticipate that being an issue, as the plan is to start Phase 2 within 12 months of the first, and may even be able to start early.
An additional recommendation from city staff was that all site utilities and access be verified for adequacy of development, engineered to meet city development specifications and be approved by the city engineer, utilities department, fire department and/or City Council if deemed necessary by public utility extension.
The Zoning Board of Adjustments Tuesday evening approved the special permit modification request from Cole Heitman, as recommended by city staff, including restriction of long-term capacity to 40% or less, the removal of the splash pad and retention pond, and start of Phase 2 within 24 months of Phase 2 being completed.
Wildcats Basketball Cruises to 2-0 Finish in Thanksgiving Classic
Heading into Thanksgiving, Coach Brandon Shaver’s team has plenty to be thankful for this year as the Wildcats went a perfect 2-0 in their home holiday invitational.
Men’s basketball is also 5-0 to start the season.
And while Monday’s win over Dallas Lincoln was a hard-fought, grind-it-out type of victory, Tuesday’s game with Naaman Forest played more like a blowout as Sulphur Springs cruised to a 20-point victory at home.
The win came in large past thanks to a lights-out shooting performance in the first quarter, going 90% from the field and using good looks and great passing to power their way past their second foe in as many days.
Men’s basketball came exploding out of the gate, scoring 21 points in the first and leading big after two quarters 40-18.
Such a lead came thanks to Kordrick Turner, as the forward finished with 18 points and 15 blocks, as well as four steals in the win.
That, and even scoring all around, as every Wildcat suiting up put at least one bucket in the net in the 71-51 victory.
The points kept flowing for Sulphur Springs. They outscored visiting Naaman Forest in every quarter except the third, all while forcing turnovers and pushing the flow of the game in the Wildcats’ favor.
While the visiting Rangers continuously attempted to keep pace with Coach Brandon Shaver’s team, Sulphur Springs responded in kind and some, putting away any question of who the better team was Tuesday, Nov. 22.
Parker Whisenhunt was the final player to finish with double figures. The small forward also dished up seven assists in the win, matching a season high. His seven assists in the victory were half the team’s total at 14.
Theo Mckelvey came one point behind Whisenhunt at nine.
A huge 71-51 win on Tuesday is the fifth straight for Coach Shaver’s team, now 5-0 to start the season.
Tuesday’s win closes out the Thanksgiving Classic, as men’s basketball went a perfect 2-0 in their home tournament.
They take the rest of Thanksgiving week off and next hit the road playing at Lakeview Centennial.
That game tips off in Garland on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 6:30 P.M.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Woman Allegedly Had 1-Year-Old With Her When Arrested On Cocaine Charge
Bogata Man Jailed On Meth Charge
A 32-year-old woman allegedly had a 1-year-old with her when arrested on a cocaine charge over the weekend, deputies alleged in arrest reports. In a separate I-30 traffic stop Monday, a Bogata man was jailed for having a small amount of suspected methamphetamine in his vest.
Arrest on I-30 west at mile marker 116
Hopkins County Sheriffs Office Deputies Josh Davis and Brennan Murray, and Sgt. Scott Davis reported seeing a black Chrysler 200 with a defective brake light while traveling along Interstate 30 west near mile marker 116. The driver also failed to signal while conducting an unsafe lane change, so a traffic stop was initiated at 9:09 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022. One deputy noted he had previously noticed the car pulled over on the north service road.
Upon contact, the woman driving provided her license to the deputy. While talking to Samantha Mari Portanova, a deputy noticed a glass pipe loaded with a white rock-like substance he recognized as crack cocaine and her. The 32-year-old woman’s 1-year-old child was reported to be in the car.
Deputies had Portanova exit the car, then asked why she’d pulled over before. She said she was looking for her marijuana., the arresting officer wrote in arrest reports. The woman was taken into custody and CPS was notified due to the presence of the child. Deputies transported Portanova to jail. Another deputy transported the child to HCSO, where the child was released to CPS officials, according to reports.
The arresting deputy then field-tested the white rock substance, which came back positive for crack cocaine and weighed 0.24 gram, according to arrest reports. As a result, Portanova was booked into Hopkins County jail at 11:47 p.m. Nov. 20, 2022, on possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance and endangering a child. She remained in the county jail Monday on the warrant according to sheriff’s and jail reports.
Arrest on I-30 west at mile marker 137
Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Gerardo Rodriguez stopped a Bogata man at 11:36 a.m. Nov. 21, 2022, in a Honda Civic on I-30 west at mile marker 137 for having a suspended license.
Russell Dale Ward allegedly admitted to the highway patrol that he had a pipe in his vest while talking with the trooper. The pipe which had a white crystal-like residue Rodriguez reported identifying, based on his training and experience as a law enforcement officer, as suspected methamphetamine.
The 50-year-old Bogata man was taken into custody transported to jail, where Ward was booked in at 12:54 p.m. Monday on a possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance charge, according to arrest reports.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Lady Cat Basketball Wins Fifth Straight, Resumes Action Next Tuesday
Tuesday gameday had Coach Bryan Jones and his team hosting one final game prior to Thanksgiving on Thursday.
Sulphur Springs hosted Farmersville on Tuesday, Nov. 22 for their second game in as many days.
And for the second straight day, the Lady Cats came out on top.
Unlike Monday’s game in which Sulphur Springs cruised to the finish, visiting Farmersville fought until the final whistle.
A big first and third quarter for Coach Jones’ team allowed his Lady Cats to propel themselves past Farmersville and play from ahead for the rest of the game, winning 54-45.
Addisyn Wall played a big part in the 19 point third, as the senior scored 11 of her 12 points in the quarter, including three shots from downtown.
Even with the Lady Farmers outscoring the Lady Cats 15-9 in the final quarter, time ran out on a Farmersville comeback as they fell 54-45 in Sulphur Springs. The Lady Farmers continuously swung momentum back in their favor throughout Tuesday’s contest. Rarely did a Lady Cat bucket follow with a missed shot on the other end from Farmersville.
Big leads thanks to 15-6 hot start and a 15-point lead heading into the fourth allowed Sulphur Springs to ease off the gas and savor their second home win in as many days.
Tuesday’s fifth straight win for women’s basketball could not have been achieved without the steady scoring of Kenzie Willis, finishing with 14 points and the only Lady Cat to score in each quarter.
Every player that suited up for Sulphur Springs scored on Tuesday.
After Willis and Wall came Trinity Jefferson and Rainey Johnson, both at seven points, followed by Nina Yancy and Kaylee Carter with threes for each.
Rounding out scoring for the Lady Cats, Codee Roland and Kyra Carter both made a field goal.
The win over Farmersville on Tuesday, Nov. 22 brings women’s basketball’s season record to 7-2.
Tuesday’s win is also the fifth straight victory for Sulphur Springs.
Coach Jones and his team take the rest of the week off before hitting the road and heading to Commerce next Tuesday, following Thanksgiving.
That game tips off at Commerce HS on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 5 P.M.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Zoning Board To Consider 2 Special Use Permits, Sign Variance Tonight
Sulphur Springs Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals is slated Tuesday night, Nov. 22, to consider two special use permits, one new permit for a construction trailer and modifications to a a special use permit granted for a RV resort, as well as a sign variance request.
Construction Trailer For New Bank
First National Bank of East Texas asked for a special use permit to be allowed to have a construction trailer on property at the corners of Wildcat Way and State Highway 19, and Rockdale Road to SH 19.
The matter was presented to the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission Monday evening. During that time. The property is adjacent to Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home on the southwest and spans northwest to Rockdale Road. The trailer would be a mobile building, on the site temporarily while a new bank building is being constructed on the property.
Jonathan Jackson of Quitman told the P&Z Commission that while the trailer will be a used manufactured home, it will be up to building and utility standards and temporary, only in use until the permanent bank is being built. The trailer would more or less be located in the center of the 20-acre property, with the permanent building to be built further northwest, closer to Rockdale Road. The remainder of the property could go toward future development or if needed, for bank expansion, so a concrete pad site for the trailer should not be an issue. If the city grants the permit, Jackson said the plan is to begin work on the site immediately, and have the bank branch up within 12 months of the actual start of construction.
Sulphur Springs Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski said city staff have received some modular drawing for the project and are comfortable with the request, with an 18-month stipulation.
The P&Z Commission agreed, as proposed by city staff, to recommend to the Zoning Board approval of the request for the special use permit allowing the construction trailer on site, with the stipulation it only be for up to 18 months, during construction of the bank. If construction is not completed within 18 months, the applicant would be required to submit for consideration by the Planning & Zoning Commission and Zoning Board another request to extend the special use permit allowing the construction trailer to remain on site.
The Zoning Board of Adjustments is scheduled during a regular 5:30 p.m. meeting Nov. 22, to consider granting the special use permit for the construction trailer for up to 18 months, with JPJ Construction as agent on behalf of First National Bank of East Texas.
RV Resort Modification
The Zoning Board of Adjustments will also be asked at the 5:30 p.m. meeting Tuesday to consider approving a request from Cole Heitman to modify the special use permit he was granted in July 2021 construction of Ladera RV Resort on approximately 48 acres, located at 1196 Jefferson Street, which wraps around other properties to Loop 301 East.
The request would include 10 modifications, which were submitted to the Planning & Zoning Commission Monday night as well. Engineered drawings of the site have been prepared, which required adjustments to the original concept plan approved by the city board in July 2021, with conditions, including the requirement to reapply for a special use permit if adjustments were made.
Niewiadomski reported notices were sent out to 22 property owners within 200 feet of the site, but as was the case with notices sent for the proposed bank site, the city received no responses either for or against the special use permit request.
The assistant city manager told the Planning & Zoning Commission Monday evening that city staff, after reviewing the modification request, felt comfortable with modifications 1-4, but felt that modification 5 should remain in place to help ensure the park remains a recreational site and not a residence.
- Modification 1 — The site layout changed. No longer are sites planned compact in the middle of the property. The current proposal is to have a cul de sac along the west property line which would extend closer to Jefferson Street.
- Modification 2 — The number of slips planned changed. Instead of a 100 total slips, the current plan is for 128 slips.
- Modification 3 — The size and type of fence changed as well. In July 2021, Heitman proposed a 6.5-foot tall masonry fence abutting residential properties and a 6-foot wooden fence around the rest of the property. The modification would be for an 8-foot tall wooden fence abutting residential properties.
Niewiadomski said city staff members are comfortable with the fencing change due to the overall change, which puts more distance between the planned property use and abutting residential property. The fence also would be 8 feet tall, creating more privacy for all.
Heitman noted the wooden fence is better for drainage beneath it. There are also trees and vegetation which provide a 5-6-foot buffer from the houses.
The developer assured Planning & Zoning Commission member Pat Chase that vegetation and a barbed wire fence which currently separate the Paris Junior College-Sulphur Springs Center property from the RV Resort. He has no current plans to change that. Fence on additional adjoining property would include 4 1/2 feet of barbed wire, which would allow those at the RV resort to enjoy seeing cattle across the fence in the nearby pasture.
Chase said he is pro masonry, which helps better guard against fence deterioration and any potential issues with maintenance and upkeep as wood ages.
A Ramblewood Court resident present at Monday’s P&Z meeting noted that a nearby masonry wall was in a state of deterioration, so even a masonry wall wouldn’t necessarily guarantee the fence would last. Masonry is only as good as the masons who lay it.
Planning & Zoning Commission member Twila Gill and Vice President Matthew Mattison both said they like the idea of higher fencing.
Chase asked what action could be taken if a fence, wooden or other, is allowed to continue deteriorate without improvements. Niewiadomski noted those could be addressed in accordance by the City Codes by a Code Enforcement officer.
- Modification 4 — The size or RV sites would be smaller to allow for the 28 additional slips. Previously, RV sites were planned at 35×65-feet, with pull-through slips averaging 75-feet, concrete pads that are 16×50 feet long and east site would accommodate a Class A vehicle 48-foot in length. The modification would reduce RV sites to 34×60-feet, with pull through slips an average of 5-feet smaller, concrete pads reduced to 10×40 feet long and will be able to accommodate a 40-foot RV.
- Modification 5 — The restriction on long-term stays was changed in the modification request. Instead of limiting long-term stays to 40% of resort capacity, Heitman proposed having no restriction on percentage.
Niewiadomski, referring to Proposed modification 5, noted that without the restriction of long-term stays, the park could potentially become a permanent residential site for some or even all of the property. A mobile home park would not be consistent with city plans.
Gill said she would like to see the number of long-term RV stays at 40% percent of capacity at the park. She expressed concern that doing otherwise would result in people moving in permanently, making it a trailer park instead of luxury RV park.
Heitman said he plans to have only a certain number of long-term sites, and all RVs will be required to be 10 years or newer, and must be up to all utility and other codes (especially electrical), showing proof in photos and documentation prior to arrival.
Mattison said he too recommends limiting long-term stays to 40% of capacity as recommended by city staff.
- Modification 6 — Staff hours are proposed to be expanded to have staff on site 7-days a week. Previously, the front desk was to open only from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday. The new proposal would have someone on duty to work the front desk from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday-Sunday.
Niewiadomski said he sees have more staff on-site for longer periods 7-days a week as an improvement. He also received confirmation that quiet hours also are still planned to begin at 10 p.m. and end at 8 a.m. daily at Ladera RV Resort.
- Modification 7 — The redesign does not include a kids splash pad.
- Modification 8 — Eight 1-2 room cabins to be located around a retention pond also were removed from the revised proposal.
Heitman noted changing up the design, moving things around, and removing some things would allow for 10 additional full hook up concrete slips and the focal point to become a swimming pool in the center of the property.
Niewiadomski said city staff had no recommendation regarding modifications 7 and 8, leaving that up to the commission as to whether or not the members want to approve or deny the removal of these items as sticking points for the special use permit. The new plan does, however, include a fishing pond
- Modification 9 — Phase 1 of construction expands the number of full hook up concrete slips from 50 to 68. Phase 1 of construction would no longer include a grand front entrance nor a gym. Instead, the proposal would include a temporary welcome center, workshop, recycled asphalt street, fencing and a playground. Phase 1 would still include all wet/dry utilities, a laundry, and restroom/shower facilities.
Niewiadomski said city staff recommended that the developer be required to pave or concrete all driving surfaces, and stipulating the temporary welcome center be replaced with a permanent center within 24 months after completion of Phase 1.
Modification 10 — With the splash pad and 8 cabins removed, Phase 2 would include 60 full hook up concrete slips, 10 more than previously planned. Phase 2 would still include a Welcome Center Camp store, Grand event pavilion, a second playground on the other end of the complex and a RV trailer storage facility. Those who choose may also take advantage of a fishing pond incorporated in Phase 2.
Heitman said the plan includes adding a brick patio onto the concrete slips. The drive in would be concrete, then the roadway would be turn to recycled asphalt.
Niewiadomski pointed out the surface must be able to hold a fire truck, which means a certain type of base. Heitman assured the base would be 6-inches, with 5 inches of aggregate millings on top
Niewiadomski said city officials also recommend that Phase 2 commence within 24 months of the completion of Phase 1. This would ensure the amenities proposed are implemented in the project and that the temporary welcome center be removed and replaced with the permanent welcome center.
Heitman doesn’t anticipate that being an issue, as the plan is to start Phase 2 within 12 months of the first, and may even be able to start early.
Niewiadomski pointed out while adding the requirements would require Phase 2 to get under way in 2 years of the first, it doesn’t restrict construction crews from starting or working on both Phases at the same time.
An additional recommendation from city staff was that all site utilities and access be verified for adequacy of development, engineered to meet city development specifications and be approved by the city engineer, utilities department, fire department and/or City Council if deemed necessary by public utility extension.
Mattison asked about the size and number of storage units the facility would offer. Heitman noted 10-15 are planned in each section of the resort, and those seeking storage for an RV would can choose from covered and uncovered units.
Mattison and Gill made the motion to recommend the Zoning Board approve the special permit modification request as recommended by city staff, including restriction of long-term capacity to 40% or less, and the removal of the splash pad and retention pond. The P&Z Commission unanimously approved the proposal as recommended.
Other Agenda Items
Monday night, Niewiadomski said he anticipates a Planning & Zoning meeting will be called for the third Monday in December as well.
The Zoning Board of Adjustments will be asked to consider electing a chairman and vice-chairman. The board too is slated to discuss and consider taking action on CEFCO’s request for a variance to exceed the height and square footage allowed for a pole sign on the freeway.
Protecting Plants, Pipes And Animals From Frost And Freeze
By Mario Villarino, Extension Agent, Agriculture/Natural Resources, Hopkins County, [email protected]
Frosts and freeze can damage or kill exposed plants, especially those in containers. Damage can vary greatly among plant varieties, so cold-sensitive plants will require more protection than hardier plants.
Plants in containers are more susceptible to freezing temperatures because they lack the insulation the soil provides. They should be moved inside the home or garage — any space where temperatures will stay above freezing
If container plants cannot be moved indoors, put them on the south side of the house, water them well and pile on mulch, leaves or hay to protect the roots and/or cover them with a frost blanket.
Cold-sensitive landscape plants can also be covered with similar protection. When covering plants, drape them with cardboard or cloth material to the ground and secure it. The idea is to trap enough warmer air escaping from the soil to protect plants from a killing freeze. Stringing holiday lights around sensitive plants and covering them with a tarp can provide protection from light freezes.
Watering plants and making sure they are not drought-stressed before freezing temperatures arrive can help. Watering just before the freeze can also help because water creates warmth and loses heat slowly. Drought-stressed plants are more susceptible to the cold and if you can’t bring a plant inside, the best option is to cover them and remember to place them in a location that gets ample sunlight and to water them.
Protecting pipes
When it comes to freeze damage to homes, protecting exposed pipes is critical when temperatures dip below freezing. Outdoor faucets and pipes need extra protection when temperatures drop below freezing. It’s best to act early, rather than when the storm is coming in, prepare now because supplies of insulation and parts might be limited during a rush for items needed to protect pipes just before freezing temperatures arrive. Water pipes can freeze and burst when the outside temperature reaches 20 degrees or below, take precautions anytime temperatures dip below freezing. Pipes with northern exposure face increased risk of freeze.
Exposed pipes, including outdoor faucets, water sprinklers, water pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics or garages, pipes that run along exterior walls, swimming pool supply lines and well houses are especially susceptible to freezing temperatures.
Outdoor water systems should be drained and covered or allowed to drip slowly to help protect from damage. Products made to insulate water pipes like sleeves, insulation or heat tape should be applied to exposed water pipes. Many products are available at local plumbing supply retailers. Newspaper can also provide some protection to exposed pipes as long as exposure is not prolonged. Foam faucet covers also add protection to an area susceptible to freezing.
Leaving water running slightly does help during prolonged events, and heat lamps to raise temperatures in lesser-insulated spaces with pipes like well houses or basements can help prevent breaks. Insulating exposed pipes goes a long way to protect for a few hours of freezing temperatures but draining pipes inside the home is easy and draining pipes to any well head is a good idea when freezes are prolonged.
Protect livestock and pets
Farm animals and pets require extra attention when it is cold outside. Most livestock species are adaptable, however, it’s important to provide animals shelter to protect them from cold, blustery and wet conditions. Once a shelter is in place, maintaining the area can ensure animals stay healthy. Keeping outdoor animals bedding replaced will ensure they have an excellent place to escape the winter elements. Along those same lines, make sure that clean, adequate water supplies are available and will be easy to maintain during freezing conditions.
Energy and protein are important levels to evaluate during a cold winter, which includes high calorie food for companion animals as well as quality forage for livestock. Evaluate forage before offering it to livestock.
For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
SSPD Asking For Help Identifying, Locating Joe Bob’s Too Burglary Suspects
Sulphur Springs Police Department asking for assistance in identifying the individuals involved in a burglary at Joe Bob’s Too, located at 597 South League Street.
The offense is reported to have occurred early Friday morning. At least three people were caught on video, which SSPD has shared with the public. The individuals appear in the video to be wearing hooded shirts and face coverings, while going through items under counters. The suspect vehicle is believed to be the four-door model pictured at right.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Joe Scott at SSPD at 903-885-7602, or remain anonymous by calling Lake Country Crime Stoppers at 903-885-2020. Tips called into Crime Stoppers could result in a financial reward.
KSSTRadio.com publishes Sulphur Springs Police Department reports and news. The Police Department is located at 125 Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Texas. Non-emergency calls can be made to (903) 885-7602.
If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1.
The Sulphur Springs Police Department continues to serve its citizens with pride in its overall mission and will strive to provide the best possible police force in the 21st century.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
