News Flash

City of Seabrook Recognized First Quarter FY 2025-2026 "Values in Motion" Award Recipients

The City of Seabrook recognized three employees during the Regular City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, as recipients of the City’s “Values in Motion” Employee Award for the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025-2026.

The “Values in Motion” Employee Award is an internal recognition program that highlights employees who demonstrate the City’s core values in their daily work. Employees may nominate coworkers who consistently show professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to serving the Seabrook community.

Each month, one employee is selected from the nominations received. The honoree is recognized by City leadership and later introduced during a City Council meeting as part of the quarterly recognition.

The First Quarter FY 2025-2026 recipients are:

• October – Shelby Forehand, Telecommunications Officer
• November – Elva Martinez, Municipal Court Clerk III
• December – Jimmy Pollock, Network Administrator

Mayor Jim Sweeney and members of the City Council recognized the recipients and thanked them for their service to the organization and the community.

The City of Seabrook congratulates these employees on their recognition and appreciates the work they do each day to support city services.

^{Pictured from left to right: Chief Rolf Nelson, Tyler Kubena, Summer Sanford, Mayor Jim Sweeney, Jared Sessum, Angela Cervantes, Elva Martinez, Cristina Duran, Jimmy Pollock, Jimmy Kinateder, Gayle Cook, Tom Tollett, Buddy Hammann, and Crissy Naranjo.}

A continuous total closure of the SH 146 Northbound Mainlanes, Northbound Port Rd. Entrance Ramp, and the Northbound Port Rd. Direct Connectors from Red Bluff Rd. to Choate/Shoreacres Blvd. is scheduled from 9 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026, through 5 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026. This is to safely perform a concrete repair on the Northbound Mainlanes.

Detour Routes

Northbound Mainlane Traffic

• Exit at Red Bluff Rd.
• Proceed through the signal to the Northbound Frontage road
• Turn left onto Port Rd. and travel west
• Turn right onto Bay Area Blvd. to travel north
• Turn right onto Choate Rd. to travel east toward Shoreacres
• Proceed through the signal and turn left onto the Northbound Frontage road
• Take the Northbound Shoreacres entrance ramp to re-enter the Northbound Mainlanes

Northbound Port Rd. Entrance Ramp Traffic

• Turn left onto Port Rd. and travel west
• Turn right onto Bay Area Blvd. to travel north
• Turn right onto Choate Rd. to travel east toward Shoreacres
• Proceed through the signal and turn left onto the Northbound Frontage road
• Take the Northbound Shoreacres entrance ramp to re-enter the Northbound Mainlanes

Northbound Port Rd. Direct Connector

• Continue west through the SH 146 Frontage Rd. intersection until reaching Bay Area Blvd.
• Turn right onto Bay Area Blvd. to travel north
• Turn right onto Choate Rd. to travel east toward Shoreacres
• Proceed through the signal and turn left onto the Northbound Frontage road
• Take the Northbound Shoreacres entrance ramp to re-enter the Northbound Mainlanes

For current traffic closure information, please visit the Houston TranStar website.

City of Seabrook Acquires Emergency Rescue Vehicle Through State of Texas LESO Program

The City of Seabrook is pleased to announce the addition of an Emergency Rescue Vehicle to its public safety fleet. The vehicle was acquired at no cost through the State of Texas and the Law Enforcement Support Office (LESO) program, strengthening the city’s ability to respond to critical incidents and support law enforcement operations.

The LESO program provides excess federal equipment to state and local agencies, allowing communities to enhance public safety capabilities while minimizing costs to taxpayers. Through this program, Seabrook can obtain specialized equipment to support law enforcement and emergency response efforts.

This Emergency Rescue Vehicle is designed to assist officers in high-risk situations, including active-shooter incidents, barricaded suspects, and other critical response scenarios. The vehicle provides enhanced protection and mobility for officers and first responders, helping them safely approach dangerous situations, assist victims, and coordinate response efforts.

Because only a limited number of agencies in the region have this type of vehicle, Seabrook was selected to receive and maintain the unit to help ensure this capability is available in the surrounding area. When necessary, the vehicle may also be deployed to assist neighboring jurisdictions during critical incidents through mutual aid partnerships.

The safety and well-being of Seabrook residents and first responders remain a top priority. This vehicle will serve as an important resource in protecting the community and ensuring law enforcement has the equipment necessary to respond effectively to critical incidents.

The City of Seabrook remains committed to leveraging available resources and partnerships to strengthen emergency preparedness and ensure the community is well-equipped to respond when needed.

The Red Bluff Underpass will be closed in both directions between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. from March 2 - 7, 2026.

Detour for Red Bluff Underpass Westbound/Eastbound traffic would turn right at the intersection and go to the adjacent U-turn at Port Rd. or Repsdorph Rd.

Officers will be present to provide traffic control, including at Red Bluff intersection.

Please visit the Houston Transtar website for current traffic closure information.

City of Seabrook Celebrates Government Communicators Day

The City of Seabrook proudly recognizes Government Communicators Day, a national observance that honors the dedicated professionals who keep residents informed and connected to their local government.

Government Communicators Day highlights the important role public communication professionals play in providing accurate, timely, and transparent information about city services, public safety, events, and emergency updates.

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Regular City Council Meeting, Mayor Jim Sweeney issued an official proclamation recognizing Government Communicators Day. The proclamation reaffirms the City’s commitment to open communication and community engagement.

The City of Seabrook’s Department of Public Affairs is led by a small but dedicated team of two professionals: Amanda Alvarado, Director of Public Affairs, and Michelle Barnabo, Multimedia Producer. Together, they serve as the centralized communications hub for all city departments, ensuring consistent and effective messaging across multiple platforms.

The department oversees public outreach, crisis communications, and digital engagement. Responsibilities include managing the city’s website and social media platforms, producing photography and videography, designing print and digital materials, livestreaming City Council meetings, and supporting major community events. The team also administers the city’s mass notification system and works to strengthen Seabrook’s brand identity.

“As government communicators, we are entrusted with keeping our residents informed, especially during times when clear and accurate information matters most,” said Amanda Alvarado, Director of Public Affairs. “Being recognized on Government Communicators Day is truly meaningful. I am incredibly proud of our team’s dedication, creativity, and commitment to serving the Seabrook community each day.”

Government Communicators Day also serves as a reminder of the behind-the-scenes work that supports transparency and trust in local government.

^{Pictured from left to right: Tyler Kubena, Angela Cervantes, Jared Sessum, Michelle Barnabo, Amanda Alvarado, Mayor Jim Sweeney, Tom Tollett, Buddy Hammann, and Summer Sanford.}

City of Seabrook Announces Quiet Zone in Effect Along New Rail Spur

The City of Seabrook, in partnership with Port Houston, announces that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has officially confirmed that the Quiet Zone designation is now in effect along the rail spur near the intersection of SH 146 and Red Bluff Road. The Quiet Zone was added to train orders and became effective February 11, 2026.

The Quiet Zone designation represents a significant milestone made possible through long-term coordination among the City of Seabrook, Port Houston, Union Pacific Railroad, and the FRA.

With the Quiet Zone now active, trains traveling through the designated crossings are no longer required to sound their horns routinely, provided all federally required safety measures remain in place.

A Process More Than a Decade in the Making

The Quiet Zone designation marks the successful completion of a process that began more than a decade ago. In November 2015, the City of Seabrook filed a Notice of Intent to establish a Quiet Zone at three railroad crossings.

Following this initial step, Port Houston completed construction of the rail spur serving the area, which was a required component before the City could proceed with final authorization. Port Houston also invested in key safety upgrades at the Seabrook crossings to support Quiet Zone eligibility, including enhanced signage, flashing signals, automated crossing gates, and other federally required safety measures.

After completion of the rail spur and required safety improvements, the City filed a Notice of Establishment. The FRA officially confirmed Quiet Zone status on February 11, 2026.

Train Horns May Still Be Used When Safety Requires It

While routine horn sounding is no longer required in the Quiet Zone, train horns will still be used in certain situations where safety is a priority. This includes emergencies, such as when a person or vehicle is on or near the tracks, when trains begin moving from a stop, or when maintenance operations are underway.

Union Pacific has advised that because this is a newly established Quiet Zone, there may be a short transition period during which some engineers may mistakenly sound the horn out of habit. This is expected to be temporary.

How Residents Can Report Ongoing Issues

The City encourages residents to report any ongoing or excessive train horn activity at one of the three designated crossings so that concerns can be addressed promptly, in coordination with Union Pacific and the FRA.

If train horn activity is observed through the designated crossings, residents should report the following minimum information directly to Union Pacific or the FRA:

• Date
• Time
• Crossing location

Union Pacific

• Phone: (402) 544-5000 or (888) 870-8777
• Online: www.up.com/notifyup

Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)

• Email: Web@dot.gov or rrswebinquiries@dot.gov
• Online: Violation Reporting Form

If available, residents may also include the engine number to help identify the train crew involved.

The City of Seabrook recognizes the partnership and coordination with Port Houston, Union Pacific Railroad, and the Federal Railroad Administration throughout this multi-year effort. Establishing the Quiet Zone represents a meaningful quality-of-life improvement for residents and businesses while maintaining critical rail safety standards.

Learn more about train horns and quiet zones on the Federal Railroad Administration Website and the Union Pacific Website.

Designated Quiet Zone Rail Spur Locations

The Seabrook Municipal Court offers an excellent opportunity for individuals to address outstanding warrants.

City of Seabrook Recognized by H-GAC for Bayside Park Expansion Concept

Award Honors Excellence in Parks and Natural Areas Planning

The City of Seabrook has been recognized by the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) through its Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program in the category of On-the-Ground Project Over $500,000 for the Bayside Park Expansion concept.

The award recognizes outstanding park planning and design projects across the region and highlights communities demonstrating innovation, environmental stewardship, and long-term community impact.

Bayside Park represents the transformation of a former wastewater treatment plant site into a future waterfront destination that will reconnect Old Seabrook to Galveston Bay. The project is currently in the final design phase; however, the award acknowledges the strength of the City’s vision, stakeholder-driven planning process, and commitment to resilient, sustainable design through the conceptual design phase.

The conceptual plan for the 2.35-acre park and adjacent streetscape improvements includes expanded public access to the back bay area in Old Seabrook, ecological restoration through native coastal prairie and shoreline plantings, improved pedestrian connectivity, and amenities that support education, recreation, and community gatherings. The design also incorporates storm-resilient features, including improved drainage and flexible site elements, to help prepare for severe weather events.

The project was developed through a collaborative effort involving Kimley-Horn and Associates, the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation, the Galveston Bay Estuary Program, the Galveston Bay Foundation, local business owners, residents, and other key stakeholders. Community engagement played a central role in shaping a plan that supports economic vitality while preserving the character and natural environment of Old Seabrook.

“This recognition reflects the thoughtful planning and strong partnerships behind the vision for Bayside Park,” said Mayor Jim Sweeney. “We appreciate H-GAC for recognizing the importance of investing in public spaces that strengthen our community and protect the natural resources that make Seabrook unique.”

Kristi Hatfield, a local business owner in Old Seabrook who participated in the planning process, also emphasized the importance of early collaboration.

“This award recognizes the importance of doing the hard work upfront; listening, planning, and designing with purpose,” Hatfield said. “Bayside Park represents a thoughtful step toward reinvesting in Old Seabrook in a way that respects its character while planning responsibly for the future.”

The Seabrook City Council, in partnership with the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation, has approved a final design contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates. Final design work will proceed while demolition of the former wastewater treatment plant is underway. The demolition contractor has mobilized, and the final design is currently anticipated to be completed in late 2026.

^{Pictured left to right: Sean Landis, Mayor Jim Sweeney, Kristi Hatfield, Tracy Powell, & Justin Bower}

The Rotary Club of Seabrook has named Officer Damiane Cauley as the 2025 Seabrook Officer of the Year. The recognition was presented at the Annual Men Who Cook fundraiser on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

On October 31, 2025, Officer Cauley was dispatched to a residence in the 2600 block of Bayshore Drive for a report of an unconscious male who was not breathing. Dispatch advised that CPR was already in progress, and the individual was believed to be experiencing a possible overdose.

Officer Cauley arrived quickly and brought Narcan with him as he entered the residence. After locating the unconscious male on the floor, he immediately prepared and administered the Narcan. He then took over CPR efforts and continued lifesaving measures until the individual regained consciousness. EMS personnel arrived shortly afterward and assumed medical care. Officer Cauley then transitioned to securing the scene.

Although he was in his first year of service, Officer Cauley demonstrated calm, decisive action and professionalism often seen in seasoned law enforcement officers. His quick thinking and commitment to duty directly contributed to saving a life.

Officer Cauley’s dedication to the Seabrook community and to the law enforcement profession is commendable. The Seabrook Police Department is proud of his actions during this life-or-death incident.

Please join us in congratulating Officer Cauley on this well-deserved recognition.

City of Seabrook Launches FlashVote Resident Survey Program

The City of Seabrook has launched FlashVote, a new community survey platform that makes it easy for residents to share feedback on important local topics and city initiatives.

Residents can sign up now at www.seabrooktx.gov/flashvote to be notified to participate in short, one-minute FlashVote surveys that help inform City decision-making. Participants may choose to receive surveys via text message, email, or phone. The first survey is expected to launch in early February 2026.

All FlashVote surveys are anonymous. Personal or demographic information is never shared with the City of Seabrook or any other organization. Survey results are reported only in aggregate.

When a survey is released, participants receive a notification and have up to 48 hours to respond. After the survey closes, everyone who participated will receive a summary of the overall results and can see how their responses compare with the community.

“With this City Council initiative to implement a scientifically based survey process for an upcoming Capital Improvements survey, we are excited to introduce FlashVote as a tool we can also use for future community input,” said City Manager Gayle Cook. “This feedback will help guide decision-making in ways that better serve our residents.”

Residents can learn more and sign up for FlashVote by visiting www.seabrooktx.gov/flashvote. 

The City of Seabrook will hold a General Election on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

Seabrook Cheese Co. Named Seabrook's 2025 Business of the Year

SEABROOK, TEXAS – The City of Seabrook is proud to announce Seabrook Cheese Company as the 2025 Seabrook Business of the Year, an honor presented by the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation in recognition of the business’s strong community involvement, collaboration with fellow small businesses, and positive impact on Seabrook’s historic districts.

Seabrook Cheese Company, established on December 20, 2023, is a casual dine-in and retail wine-and-cheese shop offering a full food menu and a seasonal wine list in a warm, cozy setting. Located in a converted home, the shop has quickly become a welcoming gathering place for residents and visitors alike.

Owned and operated by co-founders Russell Hatfield and Kristi Hatfield, Seabrook Cheese Company has built its success around more than just food and drink. “Words cannot express how grateful we are,” said Russell Hatfield. “This recognition shows that success is measured by community awareness, collaboration with other local businesses, and the wonderful customers who support us every day.”

The Seabrook Economic Development Corporation cited the business’s positive impact and ongoing collaboration as key reasons for its selection. Over the past year, Seabrook Cheese Company has hosted a wide range of community-focused events, including Friends of Evelyn Meador Library fundraisers, Rotary Club socials, Brunch Party Market events, and attended Celebration Seabrook as a food vendor in 2024. Their popular Brunch Party Market, held on the last Saturday of each month, has increased foot traffic and highlighted the charm of Old Seabrook and the surrounding districts.

In addition to events, the owners are actively involved in city initiatives, including the Bayside Park Stakeholders Group and Citywide Signage Committee, aimed at enhancing Seabrook's character and walkability.

“Our goal has always been to create a laidback, quaint, and cozy place where people feel right at home,” Hatfield said. “That atmosphere reflects the spirit of Seabrook itself.”

Looking ahead, Seabrook Cheese Company plans to enhance its outdoor backyard space with additional greenery, seating, and décor, while continuing partnerships like Brunch Party Market. The owners also hinted at future business ideas currently in discussion with the City, with more details expected toward the end of fiscal year 2026.

The City of Seabrook congratulates Seabrook Cheese Company on being named the 2025 Business of the Year and thanks them for their continued investment in Seabrook’s small business community.

Business Information

1406 Main St.Seabrook, TX 77586

(281) 942-9215

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