News Flash
City of Tomball News
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2026 Tomball Police Department Pinning Ceremony
On Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, Tomball Police Department hosted its annual Pinning Ceremony and Uniform Inspection, recognizing the dedication, professionalism, and service of officers and staff.
During the ceremony, 15 sworn and non-sworn personnel took the Oath of Office, administered by Mayor Lori Klein Quinn, and received their new badges, marking an important milestone in their law enforcement careers. The event also included a formal uniform inspection and an awards presentation honoring outstanding service within the department.
Special recognition was given to Officer Michael Bertasz, who received the 2025 Officer of the Year Award, and Angela Fagg, who was honored with the Medal of Merit for her exemplary contributions.
Quarterly Officers of the Year were also acknowledged during the ceremony, including Officer Alex Martinez (1st Quarter), Detective Bryce Smith (2nd Quarter), PSO Davion Bradley (3rd Quarter), and Officer Michael Bertasz (4th Quarter).
The ceremony was attended by City Councilmembers Lisa A. Covington, Paul Garcia, Dane Dunagin, and Randy Parr, along with representatives from the offices of Wesley Hunt and Tom Oliverson.
The annual Pinning Ceremony and Uniform Inspection serves as a meaningful opportunity to highlight the commitment, excellence, and integrity of the Tomball Police Department. The City of Tomball extends its appreciation to all officers, staff, families, and community members who joined in celebrating these achievements.
Find photos of this event on our Facebook album here (link).
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2026 Sam Houston Trail Riders Reception
The City of Tomball proudly welcomed the Sam Houston Trail Riders Association during a special reception held at the Tomball Depot Plaza on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, as trail riders passed through Tomball on their journey to the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
More than 500 community members gathered to celebrate this long-standing Texas tradition, lining the Depot Plaza sidewalk to greet the riders with warm hospitality and hometown pride. The reception served as a meaningful moment of connection between residents and the trail riders, highlighting Tomball’s continued support of Western heritage and community traditions.
The event was made possible through the generous support of local community partners who helped sponsor the reception and provide refreshments and entertainment. Sponsors included Kstar Country, Tomball H‑E‑B, Every‑bellies, Tomball Costco, Cypress Photo Campers & Cones, and Tomball Portillo’s.
Several community leaders and representatives were also in attendance, including Mayor Lori Klein Quinn, City of Tomball management, and City Councilmembers Randy Parr, Lisa Covington, Paul Garcia, and Dane Dunagin. The celebration was further enhanced by the presence of Miss Tomball 2026 and Dusty Trails, who joined in welcoming the riders.
The Sam Houston Trail Riders Association Reception remains a cherished annual tradition in Tomball, reflecting the City’s commitment to honoring Texas heritage while bringing the community together. We extend our sincere appreciation to the trail riders, sponsors, volunteers, and residents who helped make this year’s reception a memorable success.
Find photos of this event on our Facebook album here (link).
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Tomball Fire Rescue Receives Funding for New Ladder Truck
The City of Tomball extends its sincere gratitude to Congressman Wesley Hunt for securing $1,015,000 in federal community project funding to support the purchase of a new ladder truck for Tomball Fire Rescue.
This critical investment will enhance the City’s emergency response capabilities and support Tomball Fire Rescue as it continues to serve a growing community. Ladder trucks play a vital role in firefighting and rescue operations, providing elevated access for fire suppression, search and rescue, and emergency response in a wide range of incidents.
The addition of this new apparatus not only represents the acquisition of necessary equipment, but it is also an investment in the safety of Tomball residents, businesses, and visitors, as well as in the firefighters who serve the community each day.
The City of Tomball appreciates the continued partnership and support of local, state, and federal leaders who recognize the importance of strong public safety services. This funding helps ensure Tomball remains prepared, protected, and well equipped to meet the needs of the community now and into the future.
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Coffee with a Cop
The City of Tomball Police Department kicked off its first Coffee with a Cop event of 2026 on Wednesday, Feb. 11, welcoming community members for an informal morning of conversation and connection at Tomball Chick-fil-A.
Coffee with a Cop is a community outreach program designed to strengthen relationships between residents and local law enforcement through open, face-to-face conversations in a relaxed setting. The program provides an opportunity for community members to ask questions, share concerns, and engage with officers outside of emergency situations.
During the February event, residents had the chance to visit with Tomball police officers, discuss public safety topics, and learn more about department initiatives and services. Officers also welcomed feedback from attendees and answered questions about policing, community safety, and quality-of-life issues impacting Tomball neighborhoods.
The City of Tomball Police Department hosts Coffee with a Cop events regularly throughout the year at various locations around the community. Each gathering offers a welcoming environment for meaningful dialogue and helps foster trust, transparency, and mutual understanding between law enforcement and the residents they serve.
We encourage residents to follow Tomball Police Department communication channels for details on upcoming Coffee with a Cop events.
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Louie's Together Playground H-GAC Award
The City of Tomball is honored to announce that Louie’s Together Playground was selected for recognition in the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) 20th Annual Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program.
Louie’s Together Playground was inspired by Louie Munson, a child born with achondroplasia whose love of construction and big dreams sparked a powerful story of inclusion. After Louie’s story was shared on social media, author Dr. Nichole Julia was inspired to feature dwarfism in her Ables Fables children’s book series. One of the stories includes Louie as a construction-loving llama who builds an inclusive playground with friends of all abilities.
Inspired by the book, the Munson family partnered with the City of Tomball and Lone Star Recreation to bring the story to life. The result is Louie’s Together Playground: an intentionally inclusive space designed to ensure children of all abilities can play, imagine, and grow together.
Established in 2006, the H-GAC Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program highlights best practices and innovative approaches to parks planning and implementation throughout the region. Over the past two decades, the program has recognized more than 300 projects. Award recipients are selected by a panel of expert judges and industry professionals.
This recognition reflects the dedication of City staff and the strong support of the Tomball community, whose collaboration and commitment helped make the project possible.
The City of Tomball formally received the award during a recognition ceremony on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at the Houston-Galveston Area Council.
To learn more about Louie’s Together Playground, click here!For additional information about the H-GAC Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program, click here!
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Kaffeeklatsch with Mayor Lori Klein Quinn
Held on the second Thursday of each month at the Tomball Community Center, Kaffeeklatsch (also known as 2nd Thursdays with the Mayor) is a free, come-and-go gathering open to the entire Tomball community. The program is designed to inform residents on a variety of local topics while offering meaningful conversation without the three-minute time limitation of City Council meetings. Complimentary coffee and a light breakfast are available while supplies last.
January - Texas Archaeological Society
The first Kaffeeklatsch of 2026 featured Sharon Menegaz, Steward of the Texas Archaeological Society (link). Menegaz shared insights into the history and archaeology of the Tomball area, with a special focus on the Dimond Knoll site. The site was uncovered during construction of the Grand Parkway near Cypress Creek and provided a unique look into the region’s past and early human activity.
February - Tomball Police Department
In February, attendees heard from Tomball Police Department (link) Chief Jeff Bert, who spoke on practical, community-wide safety topics. His discussion included how residents can avoid common scams, improve situational awareness, and stay informed about current public safety issues affecting the area. The session also provided time for questions and open dialogue with community members.
Looking Ahead
Each month, Kaffeeklatsch will feature guest speakers covering topics relevant to Tomball residents, including public safety, history, city services, and community initiatives.
In March, we will welcome Alicia Smith, Vice President and Branch Manager of Sunflower Bank, who will share important financial safety tips, bank fraud and scams, identity theft basics, and more.
Kaffeeklatsch takes place on the second Thursday of every month from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at the Tomball Community Center. Residents are encouraged to attend, participate, and stay connected with what’s happening in the community.
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February 2026 Public Safety Officer of the Month
On Friday, Feb. 6, the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce honored Tomball Fire Rescue Lieutenant John Kelley as the City of Tomball's Public Safety Officer of the Month at their First Friday Luncheon.
This month’s recognition highlights Lieutenant Kelley’s leadership and dedication in spearheading the City of Tomball’s Safe Haven Baby Box project, an initiative that provides a safe, legal, and anonymous option for parents in crisis to surrender an infant under 60 days old without fear, shame, or identification.
Work on this project began in October 2024 and required nearly a year of coordination, planning, and collaboration. Lieutenant Kelley spent countless hours ensuring the Safe Haven Baby Box was properly funded, installed, and operational. Thanks to more than $30,000 raised by St. Matthias Catholic Church in partnership with Melanie Luttrell, along with the support of the City of Tomball, Tomball Fire Rescue, and Harris County ESD #15, the box was officially placed into service on Sept. 2, 2025, at Fire Station No. 5 on Telge Rd., all without the use of taxpayer funds.
The Tomball Safe Haven Baby Box holds significant importance, as it is the first in Harris County, the 12th in Texas, and only the second installed in Southeast Texas at the time. These boxes provide parents in crisis with a truly life-saving option and help prevent the tragic outcomes that can result when no safe, legal alternatives are available.
Lieutenant Kelley’s work on this project reflects his unwavering commitment to protecting life, strengthening community resources, and leading with purpose. His determination and attention to detail helped position Tomball as part of the solution in addressing infant abandonment and supporting families during their most vulnerable moments.
Lieutenant John Kelley’s dedication, leadership, and compassion have made a lasting impact on our community and exemplify the highest standards of public service.
Please join us in congratulating Lieutenant John Kelley on this well-deserved recognition and thanking him for his outstanding service to the City of Tomball and our community.
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Tomball Fire Rescue January 2026 Blood Drive
On Tuesday, Jan. 6, the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center hosted its first quarterly blood drive of 2026 at Tomball Fire Station #1, where 24 donors contributed blood to save approximately 72 lives across the region.
Each unit collected plays a vital role in saving lives and ensuring that local hospitals have the resources they need to respond to emergencies and ongoing medical treatments.
The City of Tomball extends its sincere gratitude to all who participated and to the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center for their continued partnership in supporting community health.
The next blood drive at Tomball Fire Station #1 is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28 with more details coming soon.
For more information on upcoming blood drives and how to get involved, visit the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center's website here!
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January 2026 Public Safety Officer of the Month
On Friday, Jan. 9, the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce honored Telecommunications Officer Mariah Banda as the City of Tomball’s Public Safety Officer of the Month at their First Friday Luncheon.
Mariah exemplifies excellence as a 911 dispatcher and City employee. A natural leader within Dispatch, she consistently sets the standard for professionalism, teamwork, and service on her shift. As a Field Training Officer, Mariah dedicates herself to developing future dispatchers, ensuring they are confident and well prepared to serve the community.
Her commitment extends beyond her core responsibilities through her involvement in CSI and her certification as a Car Seat Inspection Technician. Mariah is also a strong communicator who positively influences department morale, always willing to step up, support her peers, and collaborate with other departments and outside agencies to ensure the safety of officers, firefighters, and citizens.
While balancing these responsibilities, Mariah is also pursuing her nursing degree, reflecting her passion for helping others.
Mariah’s dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to both her team and the community make her an outstanding asset to the department and the City of Tomball.
Please join us in congratulating Telecommunications Officer Mariah Banda on this well-deserved recognition and thanking her for her outstanding service to our community.
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2025 Employee of the Year
Celebrating Excellence: Johnny Scheible and Jeremy Dueitt Named City of Tomball’s 2025 Employees of the Year
At the Jan. 19, 2026, City Council meeting, the City of Tomball proudly recognized Johnny Scheible, Streets Crew Leader, and Jeremy Dueitt, Water Utilities Foreman, as the City of Tomball’s 2025 Employees of the Year.This recognition reflects both Johnny and Jeremy’s exceptional dedication, teamwork, and commitment to serving the Tomball community with excellence. Through their leadership and hands-on approach, Johnny and Jeremy play a vital role in maintaining essential city services and ensuring daily operations run smoothly. Their hard work and readiness to step up when needed have made a lasting impact across departments and throughout the city.💬 "Johnny is a very good leader and willing to teach anyone anything. He keeps the group held together and is all around a great guy." - D. M.💬 "Johnny is a good leader and trainer. I've learned a lot in the short time that I've worked with him." - M. R.💬 "Jeremy truly leads with heart. He is always willing to help, cares deeply about people and the community, and approaches every interaction with honesty, gratitude, and genuine understanding. His positive spirit, dedication, and consistent commitment to serving others make him truly deserving of Employee of the Year." - C. W.💬 "Jeremy stepped up to his position, creating an efficient department. He's always aware of everyone else's needs and is assisting where needed. He's always looking for ways to make Public Works better." - V. M.Congratulations to Johnny Scheible and Jeremy Dueitt on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you both for your outstanding service and for the difference you make each day for the City of Tomball and our community.
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Tomball Awarded Bronze Scenic City Certification
The City of Tomball has earned a bronze-level Scenic City Certification from Scenic Texas, a nonprofit organization that promotes visually appealing communities through responsible design standards and public policy. The Scenic City Certification Program evaluates city ordinances related to streetscapes, signage, lighting, landscaping, parks, trails, and other public spaces. Cities receive a ranking from Recognized to Platinum based on how well their policies support scenic quality and community livability.
Tomball’s Bronze designation highlights the City’s continued efforts to enhance visual character, support thoughtful design, and plan for long-term sustainability. The recognition was presented during the Texas Municipal League conference in Fort Worth, where Mayor Lori Klein Quinn accepted the award on behalf of the City. “I am so proud of our staff for taking on this task in addition to everything else they manage,” Mayor Klein Quinn said. “This certification validates the collective efforts of City Council and our community to keep Tomball vibrant and beautiful for future generations.”
This achievement reflects the collaboration of the Public Works, Community Development, City Secretary’s Office, and Code Enforcement teams, whose work supports responsible growth and community pride. The City will continue building on this progress by exploring opportunities to strengthen design and landscape standards in future development projects.
For more information about the Scenic City Certification Program, visit scenictexas.org.