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Fire Department - Emergency Management - Sirens

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1. If the sirens are activated, is there definitely a tornado?

No. The sirens are Early Warning Sirens. Their purpose is to inform the public as early as possible about potentially dangerous weather conditions in our area.

2. When are the Early Warning Sirens activated?

The Early Warning Sirens will be activated when the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a warning for an area that includes any part of the city limits of Marshall. Sirens are usually only activated for tornado warnings. For clarification, listed below are the NWS definition of warnings, watches, and advisories.

Watch Versus Warning Versus Advisory

The following are the National Weather Service definitions for watch, warning, and advisory. 

• Advisory: Issued for less serious conditions that cause significant inconvenience and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.
• Warning: Issued when hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, is imminent, or has a very high probability of occurrence. A warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property. The NWS is the single "official" voice when issuing warnings for life-threatening situations.
• Watch: Issued when the risk of hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so. Watches evolve into warnings, advisories, or they are canceled.

More information can be found on Weather.Gov.

3. What should you do when the Early Warning Sirens are activated?

Monitor local TV, radio, weather radio, or the internet to obtain accurate weather information in order to make an informed safety decision.

4. Who activates the sirens?

The Early Warning Sirens are activated from the Police/Fire/911 Dispatch Center. The dispatchers are instructed when to activate the sirens by the Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Marshall. The Emergency Management Coordinator also has the ability to activate the sirens remotely.

5. How many Early Warning Sirens are there in the city of Marshall?

There are seven sirens at the following locations:

• East End Boulevard N at the Marshall Police Department
• At the end of Carters Ferry Road
• I-20 behind I-HOP
• Key Street at Martin Street
• Oak Lawn Golf Course on Victory Drive
• Washington Early Childhood on Evans Street
• William B. Travis Elementary School on Carolanne Street

6. Is there an “All-Clear” tone or sound?

No. Because the sirens make only one sound, you will not hear an all-clear tone or sound. It is strongly recommended that you continue to monitor local radio, television, weather radio, or the internet until you have determined weather conditions to be safe.

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Human Resources - Applications

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1. How can I find out about job opportunities with the City of Marshall?

Job vacancies are posted on the Employment Opportunities Bulletin Board, in the Human Resources Division, located at City Hall, at 401 S Alamo. For a complete listing of job opportunities, you can also browse the Human Resources page or call the 24-hour job line at 903-935-4454. Job listings are generally updated on a weekly basis.

2. Where do I get an application?

You may request one from the Human Resources Division, located at City Hall, 401 S Alamo, or download the Application for Non-Civil Service Employment (PDF)

3. What jobs can I apply for?

Applications are accepted only for positions that are currently open and may be submitted until 5 pm on the closing date. Most positions have specified minimum qualifications. The minimum age requirement for regular full-time positions is 18; for part-time and/or seasonal employment, the minimum age is 16.

4. Can I apply for more than one job?

Yes, you may apply for as many open jobs as you wish, but a separate application or resume must be submitted for each. Also, the job for which you are applying should be indicated on each.

5. How do I submit my application?

Your completed application may be submitted online, delivered or mailed to the Human Resources Division, or faxed to 903-935-4429. Please be sure to indicate the position for which you are applying. If you are applying for more than one position, submit a separate application for each.

6. Should I attach anything to my application?

If you have a resume, you may submit it with an application that is faxed, mailed or delivered, but any other materials should be kept for an interview, unless otherwise noted in the job announcement.

7. How long can I expect to wait to be contacted after submitting an application?

The selection process takes a minimum of two weeks from the final closing date. Some hiring supervisors take several weeks to select applicants for interviews.

8. How will I find out if my application has been selected or if the position has been filled?

Those selected for interviews will be contacted by Human Resources or the hiring supervisor. Applicants who are interviewed but not selected will be notified by mail when the position is filled.

9. Can I withdraw or change the desired position on my application after I have submitted it to Human Resources?

Yes. If you wish to have your application withdrawn or considered for a different position, contact Human Resources at 903-935-4425.

10. How long is my application for employment kept on file?

A new application must be completed for each position you wish to be considered for.

11. Will I have to complete any testing for positions with the City of Marshall?

The City of Marshall does pre-employment drug testing for all positions.

Skills testing may be administered for certain positions. Applicants selected for testing will be contacted by Human Resources or the hiring supervisor regarding dates and times.

Police & Fire

Firefighter and police officer positions fall under civil service regulations, so applicants must take an entrance exam. You may register for this exam by calling 903-935-4425 during regular business hours.

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Library

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1. What are the library's hours and location?

The library is located at 300 S Alamo Boulevard and is open for service as follows:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9:30-7:30

Wednesday & Friday: 9:30-5:30

Saturday: 9:30-3:30

2. How can I contact the library?

The library can be contacted in several ways.  

Phone: (903) 935-4465

Email: info@marshallpubliclibrary.org

Facebook Messenger: https://www.facebook.com/MarshallPublicLibrary 

3. What do I need to do to get a library card?

All ages are welcome to get a Marshall Public Library card!  Children must have a parent or caregiver over 18 years of age present to obtain a library card.  Adults must have a valid Texas driver’s license or state ID and complete a library card application (PDF).  Guest passes, for computer use only, are available for visitors with out-of-state identification. Replacement library cards cost $1.00.

4. How many items can I check out?

Children six and up as well as adults may check out up to three items per visit for the first three months after obtaining a library card.  After three months, the check-out limit is ten items per visit per card.  DVDs must be checked out on an adult’s library card.  Children younger than six may check out one picture book per visit.

All items may be checked out for two weeks and will renew automatically for another two weeks unless the items is a best-seller or on reserve for another individual.

5. How much are fines?

Fines for each overdue library book and audio book are 15 cents a day and maxes out at $5.00.  Fines for each overdue DVD are $2.00 a day and maxes out at $10.00.  

For lost and damaged items, patrons will be assessed the cost of each item plus a $5.00 processing fee.

All fines must be paid and all overdue items must be returned in order to check out materials, access eBooks, or have computer access.  

6. What items do you have in your collection?

Search the card catalog to see items that are available, checked out, or on order. The library has books, CDs, Playaways (audio books), DVDs, and hotspots available for check out. Individuals with a library card and a PIN or password can log into their account and reserve items, update account, view a history of items checked out, and even learn how much money was saved by checking out items at the library versus buying them.

7. How can I access the library's eBook collection?

Patrons with a library card in good standing--no current overdue materials or outstanding fines--can access this service online or through the Libby or OverDrive app. Passwords associated with an individual’s library card can be reset by contacting the library.

8. What programs does the library offer for my family?

There is something for everyone at the library!  Storytimes, crafternoons, T(w)een Tuesdays, movie matinees, and special seasonal programs are just some of the events offered.  For more, visit the Programs page or view our calendar.

9. Does the library have Wi-Fi?

Yes!  Marshall Public Library has Wi-Fi accessible inside the building and in the parking lot surrounding the building.  Please call or come by during library hours to obtain the password.

10. Does the library have computers, printers, copier, and a fax machine?

Yes! The library has computers available to individuals with a library card or guest pass.  Documents may be printed from the library’s computer stations or via mobile printing.  Black and white prints are ten cents a page; color prints are 25 cents a page.

Scanning, copying, and faxing are also other services provided.  For more, visit the "Business Center" section on the Services page.

11. Does the library offer computer classes?

Yes!  The library offers computer classes teaching basic computer skills tailored to students’ needs and abilities.  Class size is limited to allow for more personalized instruction. Contact the library to be added to the list and let us know what you are interested in learning!

12. Does the library have local history and genealogy information?

The library has a permanent collection of books, articles, and newspaper archives about Marshall, Harrison County, and the surrounding areas available for in-house viewing. Additionally, the library has archives of the Marshall News Messenger accessible online. Harrison County Historical Museum has a wealth of genealogical information and records at its fingertips.  View more detailed information of the library’s local history and genealogy resources.

13. Will the library accept contributions in memory or in honor of a loved one?

Yes! Individuals or groups wishing to make a contribution to the library in honor or in memory of a loved one may do so by completing a memorial form (PDF) and returning it to the library. Acknowledgements will be sent to the recipient or recipient’s family.  

14. Does the library offer proctoring services?

Yes! Proctoring is available by appointment and costs $10 per session.

15. Does the library offer tours?

Yes! Library tours are offered for interested individuals, school groups, and civic organizations.  Storytimes, crafting programs, and overview of resources can also be conducted in conjunction with the tour. Contact the library to make arrangements.

16. When are the book sales?

Book sales are held annually in January, May, August, and October.  View the library calendar or visit the Support Your Library section of the website for upcoming dates.

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Police Department - Open Carry

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1. If a person is open carrying a handgun, how does a police officer determine if he is carrying the handgun legally?

Constitutional carry did not pass in Texas, so a police officer has the right to ask you to prove that you have a Handgun License (HL). If you are asked by a police officer to prove that you are allowed to carry a handgun, you must produce identification.

2. If I see a person open carrying a handgun, should I call the police?

Yes, you can call the police, but before you call, observe how the person is acting. If they are acting suspicious, or enter a building such as a school, then please give us a call. But, if they are simply at a gas station filling up their car, then they are probably a law-abiding citizen who is legally open carrying.

3. If you are walking down a street, and an officer approaches you, is it a voluntary encounter, or at this point am I “detained”?

Technically, you are temporarily detained so that the officer can check your license and make sure that you are legally able to carry a handgun.

4. If I am open carrying a handgun, am I allowed to get out of my car, take the holster off my belt, and place it into the trunk of my car?

Yes, you are able to do that.

5. As a parent, I am concerned with my kids being around people open carrying a handgun. What do I tell my kids to do when they see someone with a pistol on their hip?

Again, it is situational. If your kids see someone in a grocery store shopping, they should not be alarmed if that person is carrying a handgun. But if they are at school, and they see a person (who is not a Police officer) carrying a gun, they should immediately tell someone and/or call 911.

6. In a government building such as a police station, can someone carry a handgun?

Yes, you can, but only in the areas that are open to the public. So if that person has to go to a portion of the building where a normal citizen would not be allowed, they are not allowed to carry a handgun. If you are in this position where you are not sure if you can carry or not, it is recommended that you leave your handgun in your vehicle.

7. Will the presence of an open carried handgun during a verbal altercation between two people, elevate this altercation to an aggravated assault because a handgun has been “exhibited”?

No, it will not be considered aggravated assault as long as the person carrying the weapon was not threatening to use it.

8. Since an open carried weapon must either be carried in a shoulder holster or a belt holster, will there be a set standard that constitutes what is considered a shoulder or belt holster?

Currently, there is no standard that constitutes what is a shoulder or belt holster.

9. If an officer sees me openly carrying a handgun in a shoulder or belt holster, is that officer legally able to ask me for proof that I have a handgun license?

Yes, since constitutional carry did not pass, the officer is within his or her right to ask you for your license. Also, when you get your handgun license (HL), you are instructed that if a police officer asks you for your HL, you must provide it.

10. If I am carrying a handgun, and I am approached by a police officer, what steps should I take to ensure that the police officer and myself both feel safe during this transaction?

Do as the officer asks. Tell the officer you are carrying a weapon and have a license to do so. Do not reach for the weapon, have the officer tell you what to do with the weapon.

11. Will we have access to information that simplifies the penal code down into easily understandable facts for the general public?

The police department will have information available on the basic facts of the open carry laws.

12. Once a police officer determines that you are carrying a handgun legally, does the situation turn from the person being detained, to being a casual encounter?

Yes. After the person has proved that they are carrying a weapon legally, they are free to go as long as the only reason they were stopped was for proof for a handgun license.

13. If I want to prohibit both concealed carry and open carry in my private business what signs do I need to have displayed?

You must have the 30.06 (concealed carry) and the 30.07 (open carry) signs posted in the front windows of your business.

14. If I am a private business owner and I do not have the proper 30.06 and 30.07 signs posted and I ask someone to leave my store who is carrying a weapon, are they still legally required to leave even t

Yes. As a private business owner, you can tell someone to leave if they are carrying a weapon whether you have or don’t have the proper signs posted.

15. If I use a “drop leg” holster that holds my gun around the middle of my thigh, will I get arrested for having an improper holster?

No, you will not be arrested for that type of holster. It is still mounted to your belt which is the requirement in the law.

16. If my private business has multiple entrances, can I post the 30.06 and 30.07 signs at the main entrance, or do I need to post them at every entrance?

You must have them posted at all entrances.

17. Does a citizen have the right to ask a handgun license carrier for proof of licensing?

No. A citizen does not have the right to ask a handgun license carrier for proof that he or she is legally carrying a weapon.

18. Since open carry is now legal, does that mean that I am no longer able to conceal my handgun?

The open carry law gives you the option to conceal your handgun or carry it out in the open.

19. What advice would you give to someone who is feeling anxious or intimidated in an open carry environment?

Open carry is going to be something that everyone will have to get used to. Initially, it will be weird to see someone carrying a handgun in the grocery store, but it is important to know that the people who are openly carrying a gun are law-abiding citizens and are not there to intimidate or hurt you.

20. Since the public is not allowed to open carry a weapon, will you allow off duty police officers to be able to open carry their handgun?

No. Off duty police officers will still be required to conceal their handgun. However, if an officer wants to go and get their handgun license, they will be allowed to carry a handgun out in the open as long as they are not carrying it under the authority or general orders of the Police Department.

21. Organizations opposing open carry said that if they see someone carrying they will call 911 and say the person is aggressive and threatening people. How will the police handle this?

The police will act with caution when approaching the person, they will collect the facts, and when it is found that this person was doing nothing wrong, the investigation will be turned towards the person who made the false 911 call.

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Public Works - Municipal Drainage Utility System

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1. How does the Municipal Drainage Utility System fund drainage infrastructure and programs?

The current rate is $3.50 per month, as established in January 2017. The Municipal Drainage Utility System Fee is assessed based on every active water meter. Drainage infrastructure and services will be exclusively funded through the Municipal Drainage Utility System fee rates. Chapter 552 of the Texas Local Government Code requires that all funds raised by the drainage fee, by law, may only be used for drainage related activities, with no exceptions.

Drainage Infrastructure & Services

Through its annual budgeting process, the Marshall City Commission determines the appropriate expenditures for drainage infrastructure and services for each fiscal year and will set the Drainage Fee based on current and future needs based on annually updating our Twenty Year Drainage Improvement Program. New business or residential developments will be required to address their increased runoff through on-site detention, off-site mitigation, or participation in a community stormwater project. Under Chapter 552 of the Texas Local Government Code, the City Commission has the obligation to set Municipal Drainage Utility System rates based on the cost of service.

2. How will the Municipal Drainage Utility System fee be billed?

The City of Marshall is authorized to levy and bill the drainage charge through the City of Marshall Water Utility Billing System, which will be separately identified from the other utility billings.

3. What is the purpose of the Municipal Drainage Utility System fee?

The Municipal Drainage Utility System Fee is a rate intended to cover capital and maintenance expenses associated with local drainage projects, and fund operational services. The fee is assessed on residential and commercial benefited properties and collected on a monthly basis through your water bill; it will appear as a "Drainage Utility Fee."

4. What is funded through the Municipal Drainage Utility System fee?

As the primary revenue source for the City’s Storm Water Operating Fund, the Municipal Drainage Utility System Fee can only be used to fund those services that directly support MS4 Permit requirements and stormwater operations. Examples of services funded by the Municipal Drainage Utility System Fee include, but are not limited to the following:

• City Bridges and Large Culverts
• Detention Ponds to Reduce Flooding
• Drainage Maintenance of Ditches, Culverts, Gutters - Roadways
• Drainage Infrastructure Maintenance
• Mowing and Restoration of Drainage Creeks and Channels
• Natural Creekway Debris Removal
• Right-Of-Way Maintenance
• Street Sweeping

5. What is a low impact development incentive or credit?

A credit is a reduction or forgiveness of the Municipal Drainage Utility System Fee that can be pursued by a property owner or occupant who operates and maintains a permanent Best Management Practice (BMP) or Low Impact Development (LID) feature that reduces stormwater runoff through features such as a downstream or on-site stormwater detention facility. The location must provide documentation that their stormwater control feature captures sufficient stormwater to qualify for their entire site. Partial stormwater retention will be credited on a prorated basis.

6. Who has to pay the municipal drainage utility system fee?

The Municipal Drainage Utility System fee will continue to be assessed to the owner or occupant of the "benefited property", which includes any lot, parcel, or real property that has been improved and which contributes runoff into the City’s stormwater system. By ordinance, there are certain exclusions from the benefited property, including:

• City of Marshall
• Marshall Independent School District
• Property held and maintained in its natural state, until such time that the property is developed and all of the public infrastructure constructed has been accepted by the City in which the property is located for maintenance
• Property owned by public or private institutions of higher education
• Property owned by a religious organization that is exempt from taxation pursuant to Section 11.20, Texas Tax Code, as amended
• Property with proper construction and maintenance of a wholly sufficient and privately owned drainage system
• State or Harrison County property
• A subdivided lot, until a structure has been built on the lot and a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued by the City

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Water & Wastewater Utilities

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1. Is the water meter read each month?

Yes, we read every water meter each month. Readings are entered into a handheld computer and downloaded daily to the mainframe computer.

2. Is my water bill high?

The water bill is not just for water, your bill generally consists of billing for:

• Refuse
• Sales tax (tax is applied to refuse charges per state law)
• Sewer
• Water

If you feel your water consumption is out of line, you may call 903-935-4435 and we will send a Customer Service Person out to re-read your meter and to see if the meter indicates you have a leak.

One of the more frequent reasons your water consumption may increase is leaks in small piping, joint leaks, or toilets that keep running. If you think you may have a silent leak in the toilet, we have free test tablets at the Water Billing Office located at 401 S Alamo.

3. When is my bill due?

You have 15 days from the billing date to pay your bill. A 10% penalty will be added to your account on the 16th day. A final reminder is then mailed and you have 15 more days to pay before your account is cut off. In cases where you may need a few more days to pay, please notify the Water Billing Office by calling 903-935-4435 before your scheduled cut off date and we can determine if an extension is appropriate.

4. Who provides refuse (garbage) and recycling service?

The City of Marshall has an exclusive franchise with Republic Services, Inc. for refuse and recycling services. The charge for this service is added to your monthly water and sewer bill. If your refuse was not picked up or you desire to be placed on the Wednesday free recycling schedule, or to report any other refuse or recycling issues, please call Allied Waste Services at 800-678-7274.

For a list of some recycling tips, visit our Recycling page.

5. How does the City of Marshall treat the drinking water?

The City of Marshall uses conventional water treatment process that includes:

• Coagulation
• Disinfection
• Filtration
• Sedimentation

Water treatment chemicals are added to the water to:

• Remove impurities
• Kill harmful bacteria
• Eliminate tastes and odors
• Help prevent tooth decay

All chemicals used are regulated and approved for use in drinking water. These chemicals include:

• Ammonia
• Caustic soda
• Chlorine
• Coagulant
• Fluoride
• Polyphosphate

6. Why does my water sometimes have a taste and odor?

All water has its own unique taste and odor characteristics. The City of Marshall, like many other water suppliers, occasionally experiences changes in taste and odor.

Algae and bacteria naturally found in surface waters can produce different types of tastes and odors. Geosim and 2-Methylisoborneol (MIB) have been identified as odor-causing compounds and are detectable at levels as low as five parts per trillion (ppt or nanograms per liter). When conditions are favorable, the bacteria and certain blue-green algae produce a musty or earthy taste and odor.

Although these contaminants impact an unpleasant taste and odor, they do not have an established Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) nor pose any known health risk.

7. Why does my water appear cloudy or milky at times?

Cloudy water is often caused by dissolved oxygen being released from the water. Cold water can hold more oxygen than warm water. Water saturated with oxygen will release oxygen as it warms or as the pressure is released. This release makes water appear milky or cloudy, but it does not affect the safety of the water. The cloudiness usually will disappear in about 30 seconds.

8. Why does my water sometimes look brown or red?

Often your water is discolored because of pipeline breaks and repairs. The color comes from iron or mineral deposits inside the pipe that becomes dislodged during the repairs. If the color is due to line breaks, run the faucet until the water is clear.

If the water does not clear within several minutes, call the water and sewer emergency line at 903-935-4485 for assistance.

9. What is the white build-up on my faucet strainers?

The white build-up is calcium carbonate.

10. Does Marshall fluoridate the water?

The City of Marshall adds fluoride to the water based on a recommendation from the Texas Department of Health. Fluoridated water assists in preventing tooth decay. The target dosage for fluoride is 0.8 milligrams per liter (mg/l).

11. How do you know the water is safe to drink?

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requires water treatment plants to continuously monitor the turbidity of the water and the chlorine residual at the plant. Distribution system samples are taken daily and analyzed for chlorine.

In addition, samples are also taken every month at designated locations throughout the City and analyzed for total coliform bacteria. These types of bacteria are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other potentially harmful bacteria may be present. Should the City detect a coliform bacteria during routine samples, extensive flushing, and disinfection procedures are performed and additional samples are taken and analyzed to ensure that no bacteria exist in the distribution system. When the samples are clear, the distribution system is placed back into normal operation.

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Wonderland of Lights

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1. What safety precautions are you taking during COVID-19?

The City of Marshall is committed to the heath and safekeeping of citizens and visitors by following the most up-to-date governor’s orders and practicing the Department of Health and Human Services Health protocols. 

The City of Marshall has also implemented their own event guidelines including social distancing, reducing the number of high-touch surfaces available, providing ample sanitation stations, limiting capacity in certain venues, and requiring masks. Review the special events for an activity-specific list of safety precautions. 

Please be advised that 2020 will be a modified year observing limited nightly activities and amended special events. There will be no ice skating, carousel, train rides, or traditional Santa’s Village this year as a COVID-19 precaution.

2. Where can I buy tickets for the horse-drawn carriage?

Our ticketing system is completely virtual through our partner company, Sacred Spur Carriage Company, and is available online at https://tailoredtek.com/tour-tek-shop ! It is highly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance. 

3. Are all events and attractions still going on this year?

The 2020 Wonderland of Lights has been modified to adapt to state regulations and stop the spread of COVID-19. Ice skating, Santa’s Village, train and carousel rides will not be available this year to reduce the number of high-touch surfaces and restrictions regarding large gatherings.  

Our 1901 Historic Harrison County Courthouse is still adorned in white lights, and our picturesque downtown area is lit and decorated ready for you to snap the perfect selfie, take a horse drawn carriage ride, and make memories with your family and loved ones. 

Downtown merchants will be open for shopping, dining, and in-store events, and are closely following all state orders and cleanliness practices. A creative group of innovators has adapted special events to ensure that good, safe, family fun is readily available. 

For a complete list of special events and safety precautions, please visit their event link.