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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPO 7440: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS, RENAMING AUSTIN AVENUE TO “REV. DR. LUTHER B. WADE AVENUE” City of / ort rthur T�'ict www.PortArthurTx.gov ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER - OPERATIONS INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM Date: August 14, 2026 To: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Through: Ronald "Ron" Burton, City Manager, CPM From: Pamela D. Langford, CPM, Assistant City Manager— Operations/ Director of Development Services RE: P.O. NO. 7440 — Permanent Renaming of Austin Avenue, 300 Block through 2000 Block, to Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue. INTRODUCTION: The Port Arthur City Council is being asked to consider the approval of Proposed Ordinance No. 7440, permanently renaming Austin Avenue, generally extending from the 300 Block through the 2000 Block, to Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue. The proposed ordinance has been prepared in accordance with the City's Street Renaming Policy, adopted by Resolution No. 87-220, including the required application, property owner verification, staff impact analysis, public notice, and public hearing. BACKGROUND: The City received a written request to permanently rename the affected portion of Austin Avenue in honor of the late Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade, in recognition of his historical significance, civic leadership, ministry, and contributions to the citizens of Port Arthur. City staff reviewed the request for compliance with Resolution No. 87-220. The proposed name recognizes a deceased individual of historical and civic significance, does not duplicate or create a name similar to another City street or municipal facility, and applies to a logical street segment. There are approximately seventy-six (76) platted tracts of land immediately adjacent to Austin Avenue within the proposed renaming area. Of those tracts, only fourteen (14) developed properties containing structures are presently "Remember,we are here to serve the Citizens of Port Arthur" P.O. Box 1089 X Port Arthur,Texas 77641-1089 X 409.983.8101 X FAX 409.982.6743 addressed along Austin Avenue. The remaining tracts are primarily vacant or undeveloped or contain improvements that address intersecting streets. A public hearing on the proposed permanent street renaming was held by the City Council on August 11, 2026, providing affected property owners and other interested parties an opportunity to present comments on the request. PUBLIC NOTICE AND PROPERTY-OWNER RESPONSE: As part of the public notification process, the City mailed one hundred sixteen (116) notices to property owners located within a 200-foot radius of the proposed street name change. The notices advised property owners of the proposed permanent renaming and the scheduled public hearing before the Port Arthur City Council. As of August 14, 2026, twenty-seven (27) of the 116 mailed notices had been returned as undeliverable. City staff has retained the returned notices as part of the administrative record associated with the request. The City also received one (1) written letter of opposition to the proposed renaming. The letter of opposition has been included with the materials provided for City Council consideration and forms part of the public record associated with the proposed ordinance. UTILITY AND DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION: On Wednesday, July 29, 2026, City staff forwarded a request for evaluation and comments to utility companies, City departments, and other service entities serving the affected area, including Entergy, Texas Gas, Charter Cable, AT&T, City of Port Arthur Water Utilities, City of Port Arthur Public Works, and Jefferson County Drainage District No. 7. Each entity was requested to provide comments or objections no later than Friday, August 7, 2026, and was advised that if no response was received by the deadline, the City would assume the organization had no comments or objections to the proposed street renaming. The City of Port Arthur Public Works Department responded with no objection. No comments or objections were received from the remaining utility or service entities by the established deadline. Following approval of the ordinance, City staff will provide formal notification of the street name change and effective date to applicable utility providers and governmental and service agencies. STAFF IMPACT ANALYSIS: In accordance with Resolution No. 87-220, staff prepared an Impact Report evaluating address changes, communication changes, street signage, street information, emergency response, postal delivery, GIS and mapping systems, utilities, "Remember,we are here to serve the Citizens of Port Arthur" P.O.Box 1089 X Port Arthur,Texas 77641-1089 X 409.983.8101 X FAX 409.982.6743 governmental records, property-owner impacts, and other matters associated with the proposed change. Implementation will require coordination with and/or notification to entities, including: • Jefferson County Emergency Communications District (9-1-1); • United States Postal Service; • Jefferson County Appraisal District; • Police, Fire, and emergency medical services; • Utility and telecommunications providers; • Applicable City departments; • Mapping, navigation, and delivery service providers; and • Other governmental and service agencies, as appropriate. City GIS layers, addressing databases, engineering and mapping records, emergency- response systems, permitting records, and other applicable departmental databases will also require updates. The proposed street renaming does not alter the physical alignment of Austin Avenue, existing rights-of-way, traffic patterns, access to adjacent properties, property boundaries, easements, or existing public infrastructure. Existing deeds, plats, easements, legal descriptions, permits, contracts, and other records referencing Austin Avenue will continue to identify the same physical roadway and properties. Staff will maintain appropriate historical cross-referencing between Austin Avenue and Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue to support an orderly transition. PROPERTY-OWNER IMPACT: Owners and occupants of the fourteen developed properties currently listed along Austin Avenue may be required to update their addresses with government agencies and private organizations. Potential changes may include driver's licenses or state identification records, USPS records, utility accounts, banking and financial records, mortgage and insurance records, business registrations, professional licenses, employer records, deeds and other legal documents, websites, stationery, subscriptions, and delivery information. Any private costs associated with these changes are not included in the City's estimated fiscal impact. Budget Impact: The City's Traffic Division has identified approximately twenty-six (26) street name signs that will require replacement. "Remember,w e are here to serve the Citizens of Port Arthur" P.O. Box 1089 X Port Arthur,Texas 77641-1089 X 409.983.8101 X FAX 409.982.6743 The estimated cost is as follows: Description Estimated Cost Materials and printing — 26 street name signs $1,495.52 Sign & Painting Technician No. 1 — 10 hours @ $25.04/hour $250.40 Sign & Painting Technician No. 2 — 10 hours @ $25.04/hour $250.40 Total Estimated Budgetary Impact $1,996.32 Installation will be performed in-house by two City Sign and Painting Technicians. The estimated cost does not include indirect administrative staff time associated with GIS modifications, addressing changes, database updates, public notification, or coordination with outside agencies. Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council consider approving Proposed Ordinance No. 7440, permanently renaming Austin Avenue, generally extending from the 300 Block through the 2000 Block, to Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue. "Remember,we are here to serve the Citizens of Port Arthur" P.O. Box 1089 X Port Arthur,Texas 77641-1089 X 409.983.8101 X FAX 409.982.6743 P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 1 OF 12 ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS, RENAMING AUSTIN AVENUE, GENERALLY EXTENDING FROM THE 300 BLOCK THROUGH THE 2000 BLOCK, TO "REV. DR. LUTHER B. WADE AVENUE"; MAKING FINDINGS THAT THE REQUEST COMPLIES WITH THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR STREET RENAMING POLICY ADOPTED BY RESOLUTION NO. 87-220; ACCEPTING AND INCORPORATING THE STAFF IMPACT REPORT; DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER TO IMPLEMENT THE STREET RENAMING; PROVIDING FOR THE REPLACEMENT AND INSTALLATION OF STREET NAME SIGNS; PROVIDING FOR THE UPDATING OF OFFICIAL CITY RECORDS, ADDRESSING SYSTEMS, MAPS, AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS; PROVIDING FOR NOTIFICATION TO AFFECTED GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES, UTILITIES, SERVICE PROVIDERS, AND PROPERTY OWNERS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Port Arthur adopted Resolution No. 87- 220 establishing a Street Renaming Policy to provide for the consistent consideration of requests to rename existing streets within the City of Port Arthur; and WHEREAS, the Street Renaming Policy requires, among other things, that a request be submitted in writing to the City Manager identifying the requestor, existing street name, proposed street name, and significance of the proposed name; that the proposed name possess historical or other special significance; that a person for whom a street is proposed to be named be deceased; that the proposed name not duplicate or be similar to another City street or facility; and that the proposed change encompass a complete street or logical street segment; and WHEREAS, the Street Renaming Policy further requires the appropriate level of agreement from owners of businesses and residences having street addresses on the affected street, preparation of an impact report by City staff, and a public hearing prior to final action by the City Council; and P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 2 OF 12 WHEREAS, a written application was submitted requesting that Austin Avenue, generally extending from the 300 Block through the 2000 Block, be permanently renamed "Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue" in honor and recognition of the late Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade and his significant contributions to the City of Port Arthur and its citizens(Exhibits "A" and "B"); and WHEREAS, City staff reviewed the application and determined that the proposed street name recognizes a deceased individual having historical and civic significance to the City of Port Arthur, does not duplicate the name of another City street or municipal facility, and applies to a logical segment of Austin Avenue; and WHEREAS, City staff has verified compliance with the applicable property-owner support requirements established by Resolution No. 87-220; and WHEREAS, there are approximately seventy-six (76) platted tracts of land immediately adjacent to Austin Avenue within the proposed renaming area, of which only fourteen (14) developed properties containing structures are presently addressed along Austin Avenue, with the remaining tracts consisting primarily of vacant or undeveloped property or property otherwise addressed from intersecting streets; and WHEREAS, consistent with the requirements of Resolution No. 87-220, City staff prepared an impact analysis addressing property addressing, communication and notification requirements, emergency response, postal delivery, street signage, Geographic Information Systems ("GIS"), mapping, utilities, governmental records, and other matters associated with implementation of the proposed street name change; and WHEREAS, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, City staff transmitted a request for evaluation and comments regarding the proposed street renaming to utility companies, governmental departments, and service entities serving the affected area, including P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 3 OF 12 Entergy, Texas Gas, Charter Cable, AT&T, City of Port Arthur Water Utilities, City of Port Arthur Public Works, and Jefferson County Drainage District No. 7; and WHEREAS, each entity was requested to submit comments or objections no later than Friday, August 7, 2026, and was advised that, in the absence of a response by the stated deadline, the City would assume the organization had no comments or objections to the proposed street renaming; and WHEREAS, the City of Port Arthur Public Works Department responded with no objection to the proposed street name change, and no comments or objections were received from the remaining utility or service entities by the established deadline; and WHEREAS, the staff impact analysis determined that approximately twenty-six (26) existing street name signs will require replacement at an estimated average cost of $57.52 per sign, for an estimated materials and printing cost of$1,495.52; and WHEREAS, installation of the replacement street name signs will be performed by City personnel utilizing two (2) Sign and Painting Technicians, with approximately ten (10) labor hours per employee, resulting in an estimated labor cost of $250.40 per employee, or $500.80 in total estimated labor costs; and WHEREAS, the combined estimated budgetary impact associated with replacement and installation of the street name signs is therefore approximately $1,996.32, exclusive of administrative staff time and any private costs incurred by affected property owners, occupants, businesses, or other entities to update their addresses and records; and WHEREAS, implementation of the proposed street name change will require City staff to coordinate updates to City GIS and addressing databases, engineering and mapping records, emergency-response systems, departmental databases, and other P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 4 OF 12 official records, and to provide notification of the official street name change to appropriate outside agencies and service providers, including Jefferson County Emergency Communications District (9-1-1), the United States Postal Service, Jefferson County Appraisal District, utility providers, emergency service agencies, mapping and navigation providers, and other entities as appropriate; and WHEREAS, the City recognizes that owners and occupants of properties presently addressed on Austin Avenue may be required to update mailing addresses, business records, identification records, financial and insurance records, licenses, deeds and other legal documents, utility accounts, delivery information, and other public and private records following implementation of the street name change; and WHEREAS, the City Council conducted a duly noticed Public Hearing on August 11, 2026, at which interested persons were provided an opportunity to present testimony and comments regarding the proposed permanent street renaming; and WHEREAS, the public notice issued in connection with the proposed street renaming and Public Hearing is attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit "C", and the Staff Impact Report prepared in accordance with Resolution No. 87-220 is attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit "D"; and WHEREAS, after considering the application, the requirements of Resolution No. 87-220, the property-owner verification, staff impact analysis, utility and departmental review, public comments, fiscal impacts, and other evidence presented, the City Council finds that the proposed renaming complies with the City's Street Renaming Policy and serves a valid municipal and public purpose. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS: P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 5 OF 12 THAT the facts and opinions in the preamble are true and correct. THAT the City Council hereby finds that the application to rename the affected portion of Austin Avenue satisfies the applicable requirements of the City of Port Arthur Street Renaming Policy adopted by Resolution No. 87-220, including: 1. Submission of a written request to the City Manager; 2. Identification of the existing and proposed street names; 3. Documentation of the historical and special significance of the proposed name; 4. Eligibility of the existing street for consideration; 5. Eligibility and non-duplication of the proposed street name; 6. Application of the proposed name to a complete or logical street segment; 7. Verification of the applicable property-owner support requirements; 8. Preparation of an impact report by City staff addressing address changes, communication changes, street signing, street information, and related matters; and 9. Completion of a public hearing prior to final City Council action. THAT Austin Avenue, generally extending from the 300 Block through the 2000 Block, within the corporate limits of the City of Port Arthur, Jefferson County, Texas, is hereby permanently renamed: REV. DR. LUTHER B. WADE AVENUE. THAT upon the effective date and implementation of this Ordinance, all applicable official City maps, plats, GIS layers, engineering records, addressing databases, emergency-response records, departmental databases, and other City records shall be updated to reflect the new street name. THAT the City Manager, or designee, is hereby authorized and directed to undertake all actions reasonably necessary to implement this Ordinance, including, but not limited to: A. Procuring, replacing, and installing approximately twenty-six (26) official street name signs; B. Coordinating the work of City Sign and Painting Technicians and other personnel necessary to complete the installation; C. Updating City GIS layers, official maps, engineering records, addressing databases, emergency-response systems, permitting systems, asset- management records, and other departmental databases; P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 6 OF 12 D. Providing official notification of the street name change to the Jefferson County Emergency Communications District (9-1-1); E. Providing official notification to the United States Postal Service; F. Providing official notification to the Jefferson County Appraisal District; G. Providing official notification to utility and communication providers serving the affected area; H. Providing notice to police, fire, emergency medical services, and other public- safety agencies; I. Providing notice to the Texas Department of Transportation and other governmental agencies, when applicable; J. Coordinating with mapping, navigation, delivery, and addressing services as reasonably necessary to facilitate recognition of the new street name; K. Providing appropriate notice and implementation information to affected property owners and occupants; and L. Taking any additional administrative action reasonably necessary to ensure an orderly transition from Austin Avenue to Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue. THAT the City Council acknowledges an estimated municipal cost of$1,996.32 for replacement and installation of approximately twenty-six (26) street name signs, consisting of approximately $1,495.52 for materials and printing and approximately $500.80 for in-house labor. THAT the foregoing estimate does not include administrative staff time associated with updating City records and coordinating external notifications, nor does it include private costs that may be incurred by affected property owners, businesses, tenants, or occupants in updating addresses, identification documents, business records, financial accounts, legal documents, licenses, insurance policies, utility accounts, signage, stationery, advertising materials, websites, or other records. THAT the City Council recognizes that existing addresses located along the renamed roadway may require administrative updates; however, nothing contained in this Ordinance shall invalidate any deed, legal description, recorded instrument, easement, plat, permit, contract, lien, governmental record, or other document that references Austin Avenue prior to the implementation of this Ordinance. P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 7 OF 12 THAT whenever the former street name "Austin Avenue" appears in any City record, contract, permit, easement, legal description, map, plat, or other official document concerning the affected street segment, such reference shall, following the effective date of this Ordinance, be deemed to refer to Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue, unless the context clearly requires otherwise. THAT the City Manager, or designee, is authorized to establish a reasonable administrative transition period during which both the former and new street names may be referenced for purposes of emergency response, postal delivery, navigation, utility service, public notification, and other administrative functions necessary to ensure continuity of services. THAT if any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or provision of this Ordinance is for any reason held unconstitutional, invalid, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, such holding shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. THAT the City Secretary is hereby directed to publish the caption of this Ordinance in the official newspaper of the City of Port Arthur as required by the Charter of the City of Port Arthur and applicable laws of the State of Texas. THAT certified copies of this Ordinance be provided to the United States Postal Service, 9-1-1, and the Jefferson County Appraisal District. THAT this Ordinance shall become effective September 14, 2026. P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 8 OF 12 READ, ADOPTED AND APPROVED this day of August, A.D., 2026, at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Port Arthur, Texas, by the following vote: AYES: Mayor: Council members: Noes: Charlotte M. Moses, Mayor ATTEST: Christe Whitley Ned, TRMC, City Secretary APPROVED AS TO FORM: Roxann Pais Cotroneo, City Attorney APPROVED FOR ADMINISTRATION: Ronald "R urto , CPM, City Manager P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 9 OF 12 Exhibit "A" (Street Renaming Application) CITY OF PORT ARTHUR FORM SR-1 (WRITTEN REQUEST FOR STREET RENAMING) --r" Name of Requestor(individual,group,organization,etc.) ai jt1(10 1,00,6L a . 'r j / ` �,IY) t1 L "` /a r,t , _ Address: 6-lotory)01-4 Ili. 7)r) 9 I Telephone No Alternate No: i-a i IIIIIIIIIIM Existing Street Name: S �.(� Proposed Street Name: (..P(� Dr, Li4i'r 6 t2ctL 1C'= Significance of the Proposed Name: ._Jl - Ul-e- a' 61(kjei To be considered,the existing street shall not a. be a named major thoroughfare. b. have a name of historical or other special significance. The proposed street name shall a. have historical or other special significance. b. not have the same or similar name of any other city street or facility. c. the proposed name change shall be a complete street or logical street segment. FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Application Date: Fees ` (; Case No: Request for Public Hearing: City Council Hearing rI. IA• MAL) ( C;N.Ni,. 2li-Zcil) " 11 ' 201 lv 1 - P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 10 OF 12 Exhibit " B " (Vicinity Map) Prop. Permanent Name Change for Austin Ave, 4th St. to 19th St. 19th St. to Thomas Blvd. Thomas Blvd. to 4th St. i' "„ a.++w.=«�w+�nu+.=,++w^r..v... xraan++ .-+M.rnae4r+w.m.+'ww-,zi".C�^"^�t"•+��M.' _.. .t , .m.;w ..... _Jryyy 4 f i G $ t , . k 1: aka r „4 ..Ci....." .T %: 610 Nan 61016 ^A Y. A311 I„ . ° , , 0 s ► ! + r 40 -4, ,i ., R �T' � M. s „., ,t... ., • 4 1-: 't. I r j { # t 7/ J i •�• .. 1 • . �.�. _ 4 1 } - ... pW+w+ City of 11 ►w., "� if 3 ort rtitu�r '�_ = . P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 11 OF 12 Exhibit " C" (Public Notice) \\, IMPORTANT NOTICE ,_ ,:merry `- TO PROPERTY OWNERS City of _.�.„,crry _ �, . . - - -- ; __ _ . ;-, _ .__., , , o t rth u r REQUEST FOR __ _ TIN AVE _ __ ___, Texas PERMANENT STREET RENAMING a. A request has been made for the Permanent Street Renaming of PROPOSED STREET NAME: Austin Avenue Rev. Dr. (from 19th Street to 4th Street) Luther B. Wade 40 . ,, Avenue 19TH STREET 4TH STREET i CO° This request is being made by tP The Family of Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade. WHAT A STREET RENAMING pal. PUBLIC HEARING WOULD REQUIRE OF WITS A public hearing will be conducted by the ADJACENT PRO.F-61 IVOWNERS dadliall City of Port Arthur City Council on: If the street is permanently renamed,property owners along Austin Avenue(from 19th Street to 4th Street) will need to update their address with various i TUESDAY, organizations and on official documents,This may include: "" "" AUGUST 11, 2026 File UNITEDChan STATESofAdd POSTAL SERVICE continue"' a ge ress A ensure you receiving mail at your new street name. 0 0•00 DRIVER'S LICENSE/STATE ID J Update your address with the Texas Department of • • • Public Safety. © FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS The meeting will be held at City Hall, L! Notify your bank,credit card companies,mortgage 444 4th Street, Port Arthur, TX 77640. lender,and other financial institutions. n LEGAL&OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS All interested persons are encouraged I Update your address on deeds.insurance policies. to attend and be heard. wills,and other legal documents. O UTILITIES&SERVICES There is no cost to the property owner for the Notify providers such as Entergy,water,gas,cable, 401 street renaming itself;however,owners are Internet,and trash collection responsible for updating their addresses with OTHER ACCOUNTS&MEMBERSHIPS the various agencies and businesses listed. Update your address with employers,schools, subscriptions,professional licenses,and more. • For more information, please contact the City's Planning Office at(409) 983-8133 or visit www.portarthurtx.gov P.O. NO. 7440 08/14/2026 PDL PAGE 12 OF 12 Exhibit " D" (Staff Impact Report) City of ort rthur 7r rus www.PortArthurTx.gov DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM Date: August 10, 2026 To: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Through: Ronald "Ron" Burton, CPM, City Manager From: Pamela D. Langford, CPM, Assistant City Manager— Operations/Director of Development Services RE: Proposed Permanent Street Renaming: Austin Avenue to Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue PURPOSE: Pursuant to the City of Port Arthur Street Renaming Policy adopted by Resolution No. 87- 220, City staff has prepared the following impact report regarding the proposed permanent renaming of Austin Avenue to Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue. Resolution No. 87-220 requires that, following verification of the application requirements, City staff prepare an impact report that, at a minimum, addresses changes to addresses, communication changes, street signage, street information signs, and other related matters prior to City Council consideration of the request. This report summarizes the operational, financial, administrative, and public impacts associated with the proposed street renaming. STREET DESCRIPTION: Existing Street Name: Austin Avenue Proposed Street Name: Rev. Dr. Luther B. Wade Avenue Limits of Request: 19th Street to 4th Street (Approximately the 300 Block through the 2000 Block) Street Classification: Minor Local Street Length: Approximately 5,400 feet Right-of-Way Width: Approximately 70 feet EXISTING DEVELOPMENT: Although approximately 76 platted tracts of land lie immediately adjacent to Austin Avenue, only fourteen (14) developed properties currently possess official Austin Avenue addresses. Many of the remaining lots are vacant or contain structures that are addressed on intersecting streets because the principal entrance faces another roadway. The affected properties addressed include: Address Occupancy Property Owner 301 Austin Avenue Adam's Building City of Port Arthur 320 Austin Avenue Traffic Division City of Port Arthur 440 Austin Avenue Former World Trade Building Motiva Enterprises, LLC 445 Austin Avenue Former City Health Facility Motiva Enterprises, LLC 500 Austin Avenue Former Federal Building Motiva Enterprises, LLC 526 Austin Avenue Vacant Commercial Structure North Star Unlimited 600-626 Austin Avenue Kelly's Kitchen and Studios Hilton Kelley 631 Austin Avenue Historic Train Station Royal Redux, LLC 932, 934 & 936 Austin Avenue Residential Structures Individual Owner 1100 Austin Avenue Proposed Eatery L.S. McCreary 1934 Austin Avenue Residential Structure Individual Owner Overall, the corridor consists of: • 10 commercial properties • 4 residential properties PROPERTY OWNER IMPACTS: A permanent street renaming requires property owners and occupants to update their official mailing address with numerous governmental agencies, financial institutions, and private organizations. Potential impacts include updating: • Driver's License or Texas Identification Card • Voter Registration • United States Postal Service forwarding information • Property deeds • Mortgage documents • Insurance policies • Wills and estate planning documents • Utility accounts • Banking and financial institutions • Credit card companies • Employer records • Schools • Professional licenses • Business registrations • Texas Comptroller records (where applicable) • Texas Secretary of State business filings • Subscription services • Emergency contact information Although these updates are inconvenient for affected property owners, they are customary administrative actions associated with any permanent street renaming. PUBLIC NOTIFICATION: To ensure transparency and encourage public participation, the City conducted an extensive public notification process. Notification activities included: • Publication in the Port Arthur News on July 22, 2026. • Posting on the City's official website. • Posting on official City social media platforms. • 116 Certified Mail Notices mailed to property owners located within 200 feet of the proposed street renaming, including all property owners immediately adjacent to Austin Avenue. As of the preparation of this report: • One (1) electronic communication opposing the request has been received (Attachment "A") • Three (3) electronic letters of support (e.g., family, church) (Attachment "B"). UTILITY AND AGENCY COORDINATION: On July 29, 2026, City staff distributed requests for review and comment to utility providers and governmental agencies serving the City of Port Arthur. Entities contacted included: • Entergy Texas • Texas Gas Service • Charter Communications • AT&T • City of Port Arthur Water Utilities • City of Port Arthur Public Works Department • Jefferson County Drainage District No. 7 Each organization was requested to provide comments no later than August 7, 2026. The correspondence advised that failure to respond by the stated deadline would be interpreted as "no comment or objection" to the proposed street renaming. Responses received: Agency Response City of Port Arthur Public No objection Works All Other Utility Providers No response received; therefore, presumed to have no comments or objections. STREET SIGNAGE IMPACT: The City's Traffic Division estimates that approximately 26 street name signs will require replacement. Material Costs: • 26 Street Name Signs • Average Cost per Sign: $57.52 • Total Materials and Printing: $1,495.52 Labor Costs: Installation will be completed by City forces. Personnel Required: • Two (2) Sign and Painting Technicians Estimated Labor: • Approximately 10 hours per employee • Hourly Rate: $25.04 Labor Cost: • $250.40 per employee • Total Labor: $500.80 Total Estimated Signage Cost: $1,996.32 EMERGENCY SERVICES IMPACT: Should the City Council approve the permanent street renaming, staff will coordinate with emergency response agencies to ensure uninterrupted public safety services. Required notifications include: • Jefferson County 9-1-1 District • Police Department • Fire Department • Emergency Medical Services • Jefferson County Appraisal District • GIS Mapping Systems • Navigation databases • Emergency dispatch software • Mobile Data Terminals • Public safety mapping vendors These updates are intended to prevent delays in emergency responses and maintain accurate dispatch information. ADDRESS AND COMMUNICATION CHANGES: Upon adoption of the ordinance, City staff will notify: • United States Postal Service • Jefferson County 9-1-1 • Jefferson County Appraisal District • Utility providers • GIS and Mapping agencies • Federal and State transportation databases • Internal City departments City mapping products, engineering records, zoning maps, subdivision records, and addressing databases will also require updating. HISTORICAL AND WAYFINDING CONSIDERATIONS: Austin Avenue has historically been classified as a local street within the City's transportation network and is not a major thoroughfare. Staff did not identify any historical significance associated with the existing street name beyond its reference to the City of Austin. The proposed street segment is a logical, continuous roadway section extending from 19th Street to its terminus at the Zwolle Ditch near 4th Street. Renaming the entire corridor will preserve continuity in addressing and wayfinding while minimizing confusion that could result from renaming only a partial block or discontinuous segment. ADMINISTRATIVE IMPACTS: Implementation of the street renaming will require coordination among numerous City departments, including: • Development Services • Engineering • Public Works • Traffic Division • Information Technology/GIS • City Secretary's Office • Communications Department • Police Department • Fire Department • Utility Operations Staff time will primarily involve updating official records, notifying outside agencies, coordinating signage replacement, and responding to public inquiries during the transition period. STAFF FINDINGS: Based upon the staffs review, the proposed street renaming: • was submitted in accordance with the City's application procedures; • involves a minor local street; • honors a deceased individual of recognized community significance; • does not duplicate an existing City street or public facility name; • represents a logical street segment; • has been evaluated through the preparation of this impact report; • has been publicly noticed in accordance with City policy; • has received one written letter of opposition; and • has no objections to responding to utility providers or City departments. CONCLUSION: Approval of the proposed permanent street renaming will result in one-time administrative, operational, and financial impacts associated with replacing street signage, updating public records, and notifying governmental agencies and utility providers. The total estimated implementation cost to the City for street signage replacement is approximately $1,996.32, exclusive of staff administrative time devoted to GIS updates, agency notifications, and record modifications. While adjacent property owners will incur personal administrative responsibilities associated with updating addresses on various records and accounts, these impacts are typical of any permanent street renaming. Staff finds that the required impact analysis has been completed and presented to the City Council in accordance with Resolution No. 87-220, thereby satisfying the policy requirement prior to City Council consideration of the proposed street renaming. ATTACHMENT "A" Pamela Langford From: Christe Ned Sent: Tuesday, July 28, 2026 8:41 AM To: Victoria Hernandez;Aries Milo Cc: Pamela Langford Subject: FW: [NON-CoPA] Request for Permanent Renaming of Austin Avenue From: larmintor@gt.rr.com <lrmintor@gt.rr.com> Sent: Monday,July 27, 2026 9:59 PM To: Christe Ned <christe.whitley@portarthurtx.gov> Cc: Lucille Miller Armintor<lrmintor@gt.rr.com> Subject: [NON-CoPA] Request for Permanent Renaming of Austin Avenue Dear Ms. Whitley, I am sending you this letter which I hope you will forward to Public Hearing Tuesday as I am unable to attend due to a doctor's appointment. Thank you! "With regard to the possible renaming of Austin Avenue, Port Arthur, Texas, I oppose this change. Arthur Stillwell, the founder of our city, named the city after himself and designed the layout and naming of the streets. Most of the avenues in the central city are named after cities in Texas.To change the name of Austin Avenue would upset the balance of this concept. If you look at a map of the city, the layout and symmetry are beautiful.The street names follow a pattern. Please do not erase the colorful history of Port Arthur. When former residents, particularly the ones I graduated from high school come to town, they are confused by the name changes. Changing the name of Austin Avenue with be a problem for paper maps, Google maps and Waz. It will be an expensive proposition for all that are affected. Please consider the fact that Motiva owns and is in the process of renovating and going to renovate three (3) buildings on Austin Avenue. Austin Avenue is a nice, short name and easy to remember. I wonder how Motiva would feel about having their buildings on a street with such a long street name. I looked up Dr Rev Thomas B Wade. I now know that he pastored a church on Austin Avenue, and I assume that is why someone wants to rename the whole street for him. I am certain that he was a good minister, but we have had many good ministers in Port Arthur and did not change the name of the whole street for them (thank goodness!).The only change I know of is Seventh Street. This is the street that my classmates have difficulty with a many of them grew up on Seventh Street. To change Austin Avenue's name will cost money, too much money. I suggest another way to honor this man be found, perhaps a monument in front of his church or naming a new street that has no previous name would be more appropriate. Another practical option would be to put a small sign on top of the Austin Avenue signs designating it "Dr Wade Way." We have already done this with some streets in Port Arthur and Port Neches has i done it with Nall. They have designated it Bum Phillips Way which honors him but does not affect maps, Google, etc. I do not recommend this street name change to the City Council." Sincerely, Lucille Armintor 4509 Forest Drive Port Arthur, TX 2 ATTACHMENT "B" EASTERN STAR BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Vester Thompson, Pastor Attn: Mayor Charlotte Moses, And the Port Arthur City Council Subject: Ceremonial Naming of a Street We, the Congregation and Leadership of Eastern Star Baptist Church, respectfully submit this request for the ceremonial naming of a street in honor of our late Pastor, Rev. L. B.Wade. Rev. Wade dedicated 29 years of selfless service to our church, the Port Arthur Community and the surrounding areas. He demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and dedication to the spiritual and personal growth of our Church. To have a street named after Rev. Wade would be a blessing to his family, our Church, and the City of Port Arthur. Sincerely, Rev. Vester Thompson,Jr. Senior Pastor Bro. Willie Calcote, Chairman of Deacons 548 E. 15th St. Port Arthur Telephone#409.982.2193 easternstarbcpatx cyahoo.com Texas 77640 Tawanna Wade Clark Austin Ave Reverend Dr.Luther B.Wade I, Tawanna Wade Clark respectfully submit this request for the ceremonial naming of a street in honor of my father Rev.Luther B.Wade. My dad dedicated 29 years of service to his church and his fellow community, he was a great father, and it would mean a lot to myself and my family to have a street named after him. My father committed himself to Iamil�. church and community and we would greatly appreciate your approval with this matter. Respectfully Yours. Tawanna R. Wade Clark . • Oartr q -ôi Sri0--4r) 9113 '. Clod . s)- g3yq popr 5/7/26, 10:41 AM Inbox(11029)I iCloud Mail IN HONOR OF REVEREND DR. LUTHER B. WADE To the Honorable Members of the City Council and Naming Committee of Port Arthur, Texas, We, the family of Reverend Dr. Luther B. Wade, respectfully request that a street in Port Arthur be permanently named in his honor. Reverend Wade served faithfully for over 30 years (1959 to 1988) as pastor of Eastern Star Baptist Church in Port Arthur, Texas, leading with vision and unwavering faith as the church grew, including the purchase of a new sanctuary in 1964 and plans for future expansion in 1979. His ministry extended far beyond the church building. He was present in the streets and neighborhoods of this city, standing for justice during the civil rights era and believing deeply in equality, dignity, and change. To us, he was not only a pastor but a father figure to many. He met people where they were in struggle, in addiction, and in hardship, and reminded them that their lives still had purpose. That same love shaped our family, where he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose influence continues to guide us every day. We ask for a permanent naming because his impact on this city was permanent. His life was lived in service, and that service is still felt in this community today. A lasting street name would ensure that his presence remains part of the daily life of the city he loved and served, and we respectfully ask for your consideration in honoring his legacy in this way. Respectfully submitted, The Family of Reverend Dr. Luther B. Wade https://www.icloud.com/mail/ 1ll