Houston’s New Police Officer Curtis Chapel

Curtis Chapel was officially sworn in as Houston’s new police officer at the July 14 Houston City Council meeting. Chapel had served as an intern in Houston and has already been working for Houston during his last year of training to become a police officer. The city paid his expenses in return for a commitment from Chapel to remain on the force the next three years.

A very special person proudly pinned Chapel’s badge on his uniform; Charlie Chapel, Curtis’s grandfather, was happy to have the honor. Charlie shared that it had been 66 years since he himself had a badge on. Charlie had been sworn in in the back of the squad car. Chuckling, Charlie said he served as a part-time officer — mostly so the police chief could take a vacation and go fishing.

The city council also appointed a new fire chief effective January 1, 2026. Byron Frauenkron was appointed to a one-year term effective January 1 to fill the remaining time on Skifton’s term. At that time current Fire Chief Steve Skifton will retire. During the intervening time, Frauenkron and Skifton will work side by side as the transition begins. This will give Frauenkron time to learn how to complete some annual reports and paperwork. The following terms will be for two years.

Another key city employee, the Nature Center Lead, has been unanimously chosen from the two candidates who had applied. At this time City Administrator Michelle Quinn said the city was waiting to hear back from one reference. Quinn asked that the council approve the hiring of the candidate contingent on the favorable reference. The council approved; Quinn will extend the offer once the reference is received and will officially announce the new Nature Center Lead at the next council meeting.

A new fire fighter was approved by the council at the recommendation of Chief Skifton. Jude Fernando was appointed as a probationary fire fighter. Skifton also asked that the city advertise for more fire fighters, noting that seven current fire fighters had completed over 20 years of service and some were likely to retire quite soon.

Skifton had one more item to discuss with the council as he explained a request for a building permit. He asked the city to construct a carport to protect the brush truck from the elements. He requested permission to build a 14’ by 50’ concrete pad with bolt anchors. The fire department has funds to pay for the construction from their pancake breakfast proceeds. The city is the owner of the fire department building. The council quickly approved the request.

Michelle Quinn suggested the council offer a stipend for law enforcement legal defense to Houston’s two police officers. Quinn said this would be a good move, noting that Houston wants to attract and retain officers and offer them competitive compensation. Houston’s police officers are non-union. Chief Hurley has been purchasing his own coverage until now. Carrying such protection is very common in the profession.

After researching the expense of the coverage, Quinn shared that such insurance coverage would cost less than $500 total annually for both officers. She explained that such coverage is similar to malpractice insurance for doctors. Councilman Danny Todd commented, “It’s a small perk.”

Quinn noted that it would create a comprehensive packet for the staff. The council approved adding the insurance to the police officers’ job benefits.

Another benefit Quinn requested was for Summer Rec Director Katie Tostenson. Quinn shared that Katie is “boots on the ground” and very involved. She attends every activity to get it started; the program has grown under her leadership. Quinn reported to the council that it had been at least 14 years since the pay for the position had been increased. She then suggested increasing Tostenson’s pay from $4,000 to $5,000 for the season. The council approved the increase.

With Hoedown Days rapidly approaching, Dustin Franzwa appeared before the council to request a fireworks permit for the event. The council readily approved the permit, happy to know Hoedown would once again have a great fireworks show.

PWD Randy Thesing reported that the stripes had been painted on the streets and street signs were being installed along with the ongoing water meter installations. The fire department roof has been washed and sealed. A roof leak at city hall has been temporarily repaired by Affordable Roofing; it was suggested that professionals should be called in to redo the flat roof.