SHPC 6-24-26 Minutes
SCHERTZ HISTORICAL PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
1400 SCHERTZ PARKWAY, BUILDING 1
BOB ANDREWS CONFERENCE ROOM
SCHERTZ, TEXAS 78154
MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24, 2026 AT 6:00 PM
Call to Order 6:01PM
Board/Committee
Present Not Present
Chair - Maggie
Titterington
Vice Chair - Angie Fain
Rose Arispe Sophie Rodriguez
Caleb Hofmann Becki Babcock
Jim Burdett
Kathleen Samsey
Roz Wise
City Representatives
Zii Reed
Brian James
Council Liaison
Robert Westbrook
Guests Association
Dr. Miguel Vazquez Schertz-Cibolo Cemetery
James Clair Schertz Area Genealogist
Pete Perez Local
Carol Simonsen Local/Widow of Former City Official
Robert Sheridan Shertz City Council
Introduction of Guests
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Introduction of Guests
Chairperson Titterington called to order the meeting of the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee at 6:01.
Noting the presence of some guests, Dr. Miguel Vazquez introduced himself, a retiree from the cemetery
association, explained his ongoing involvement and shared details about his latest project, confirming his role as a
doctor and former president.
Another guest, Pete Perez, recounted his long history with Schertz, having lived here since before its
incorporation. He reminisced about knowing nearly everyone growing up. Pete Perez's deep knowledge of the
town’s history impressed many.
Jim Clair, well-known in the community, introduced himself and spoke about his volunteer work at the library
with the Genealogy Committee. He was currently organizing materials left there, including old newspapers and
tapes, some converted to CDs. He mentioned delivering historical photos and working on the library's collection
of newspapers dating back to 1952.
Carol Simonsen introduced herself, sharing her family's history in Schertz since 1974. She spoke of her late
husband, former city manager, Steve Simonsen, who held various important roles in the community before
retiring due to ALS. Mrs. Simonsen expressed gratitude for the support they received and mentioned donating
plaques to the archives as she downscaled.
Discussion and/or Action Items
Minutes
On the review for the approval of the May 27th meeting minutes, The Chair noted their extensive nature,
mentioning the amusing story about the haunting of the Kramer House. She questioned the story's accuracy,
stating that she had suggested Mrs. Bodinger, not Mrs. Kramer, and asked if corrections were needed. Zii Reed
agreed to make the correction. Roz Wise made a motion to approve with the corrections and seconded by Rose
Arispe, with no objections.
Motion passed unanimously (5-0)
SHPC Membership Updates (9 of 14 seats currently occupied, 2 of current hold non-resident
status)
The Chair noted there were no significant membership updates. For clarification, she continued
by reiterating though not a requirement to fully fill, 14 seats being the board's capacity, currently
holding 9, including an opening for 1 non-resident.
Review of Financial Statements
In a detailed review of the financial statements, the conversation The Chair began by acknowledging she had not
yet examined the documents and was inquiring about the corrections previously sent. Brian James elaborated on
recent challenges with the financials and explained the new process initiated after consulting with the finance
department. It was decided to start lagging a month on financial approvals, meaning financial statements for May
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would be approved in July, allowing time for necessary adjustments or corrections. This change aimed to
streamline the process and ensure accuracy.
Brian James continued by discussing adjustments to how available balances were reported, akin to treating the
available balance like a checking account. The financial reports were structured to show the budget allocated by
the city, which was the initial spending approval, alongside monthly and year-to-date revenues and expenditures.
The remaining balance was calculated as the difference between the initial allocation and expenditures. A shift in
terminology to "available balance" rather than “cash in bank” was also implemented for better clarity. An asterisk
would be added to notes to explain that this figure might not match the exact bank balance due to pending
transactions.
Brian James emphasized the effort to make the format user-friendly and informative. He highlighted that running
a month behind in financial reporting prevented disruptions and ensured a thorough review. The committee
collectively agreed on the improvements, appreciating the clarity and organization of the new reports.
The approval concluded with Roz Wise making a motion to accept the financial reports from October 2025
through April 2026, seconded by Caleb Hofmann, which was unanimously approved.
Motion passed unanimously (5-0)
Updates
Outlook 365: Champion, Brian James
Brian James addressed the Committee with updates on the status of Outlook 365 profiles and accounts. He
specifically instructed Roz Wise and Caleb Hofmann to stay after the meeting for IT assistance in accessing their
accounts. The primary goal was to streamline communication and ensure that SHPC members began using
Outlook email systems only, to simplify responding to potential open records requests. Furthermore, Brian James
reassured them of support from IT director Jack Bluebird, who was to assist with their access after the meeting.
SHPC Policies and Procedures & By-Laws: Champion, Maggie Titterington / Support,
Brian James
During the discussion on SHPC Policies and Procedures, Brian addressed the recent updates regarding the
approval process for different expense ranges. Expenses under $100 could be incurred but might not be
reimbursed; expenses between $100 and $500 can be pre-approved only by The Chair. Otherwise, for expenses
exceeding this threshold, regular protocol is to be followed.
Roz Wise confirmed the process with Brian James, who emphasized the importance of maintaining a pre-approval
paper trail, suggesting the use of email for documentation. For expenses over $500, the approval would need to be
included on the agenda for the next meeting, with advance notice given to Chairperson Titterington. In urgent
cases, a special meeting could be called. Brian James concluded that the document would be finalized with these
additions/specifications.
Roz Wise mentioned she hadn’t received the policies and procedures packet, and The Chair agreed to table it until
the committee could review it. Roz Wise then made a motion to table the discussion until the next meeting for
review, which Caleb Hofmann seconded.
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The motion passed unanimously (5-0)
SHPC 2028 Calendar Project: Champion, Rose Arispe / Support, Maggie Titterington
The Committee reviewed the preferred template details shared in May’s meeting, emphasizing the importance of
maintaining a consistent appearance. They evaluated the cost differences between a 12-month and an 18-month
calendar, preferring the latter due to its extended duration. Brian James estimated that switching from a 12-month
to an 18-month calendar might result in a 50% cost increase. He suggested contacting the supplier to confirm
potential costs for producing both options.
The Chair highlighted the Committee’s preference for the second version of the calendar template which
incorporates two specific preferred elements: the picture and the article's placement within a clean, traditional
calendar template, allowing space for notes and appointments. This revised template will be presented at the next
meeting and included in the upcoming agenda packet.
Oral History Project: Champion, TBD / Support, Jim Burdett
During the discussion about the oral history project, Jim Burdett and The Chair collaborated on selecting
interviewees and assigning interview responsibilities. It was highlighted that Eric Dawson has a collection of
photographs from Schertz and historical information about the Deitz family, which piqued The Chair's interest due
to its relevance to the Schertz Beer Garden, formerly the Deitz house. The Chair considered this history for
inclusion as an addendum to the main stories. Jim Burdett agreed to have a release form sent out to Eric Dawson.
Additionally, when asked about the ownership of the Schertz Beer Garden, Jim Clair confirmed that it is owned
by Mike Armstrong.
The conversation then transitioned to the project's logistics. Zii Reed mentioned having received initial
questions/script for the interviews, that required editing for the final draft. The Chair recommended they
serve/function as general inquiries for all participants, with modifications based on the interviewee. She concluded
by planning to review the questions and the release form at the next meeting.
City Event Support: Champion, Kathleen Samsey / Support, Roz Wise
Kathleen Samsey started by apologizing for her recent absences and inquired about the outcome of the May
Hometown Harvest Farmers Market. Participating members, Rose Arispe and Jim Burdett, highlighted the event's
success, noting there was high engagement with the attendees. They also informed her about some logistical
details, particularly mentioning the newly purchased display materials. There was an issue with the stands, which
were not the right size to hold items for the display, and they suggested considering returning the stands for larger
replacements.
The committee then looked ahead to confirm upcoming events for the remainder of 2026. They decided on
participating in Hometown Harvest Farmers Market, scheduled for September 5th, with registration opening on
August 7th. Volunteers Rose and Caleb Hofmann tentatively confirmed their participation. For the October
Schertz-Cibolo Cemetery Annual event, Miguel loosely confirmed it would likely take place on either the first or
second weekend of the month, details need to be updated. In reference to the December annual Holidazzle event,
Zii Reed reminded everyone of the need for early registration due to high demand and quickly filling spots. After
some discussion on volunteers’ availability, it was agreed that confirmations would be made in upcoming
meetings.
Attention then turned to the distribution of current year calendars. The chair recommended, and the committee
agreed, to distribute the remaining "Then & Now 2026" calendars for free at the 4th of July Jubilee events to
generate interest for next year’s calendar. It was specifically suggested to distribute them during the parade
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generate interest for next year’s calendar. It was specifically suggested to distribute them during the parade
portion of the Jubilee event.
Historic Street Signs: Champion, Brian James / Support, Roz Wise
Brian James announced the completion of the Historic Street Sign Designation project, with a ceremony
tentatively scheduled for August 18th. Brian James agreed to inform the neighborhood by sending out flyers or
mailers to ensure everyone is aware of the event. A mock-up of the area, identified as Old Schertz, was proposed
for the flyers and communication materials.
Old Schertz, the confirmed Heritage neighborhood name, is the preferred choice among the committee,
correlating and connecting with residents who have known and referred to the area as Old Schertz since 1893.
The meeting concluded with confirmation of the date and plans to proceed with outreach efforts.
Landmark Properties: Champion Becki Babcock
During the discussion on landmark properties, Becky Babcock, the project champion, was absent for the plaque
update. However, Brian James confirmed that the plaque would be ready by July 15th and noted it would be
prepared for presentation at the October Schertz Cibolo Cemetery event. The Chair suggested it be installed and
covered beforehand, to be unveiled on the event day, to which Brian James agreed.
Mural Redesign: Champion Angie Fain
The Chair began the discussion by noting that the Masons have yet to confirm the artwork for the mural, causing
a delay in the project. She stressed the importance of their input to ensure the mural aligns with their vision and
historical significance. She plans to make another attempt to contact the Masons for the necessary confirmation.
Following this, Brian James proposed reaching out to an artist frequently commissioned by the Parks & Recreation
department to obtain a comprehensive price estimate for the mural restoration. Jim Clair suggested the committee
explore a GVEC grant to fund the mural project.
Photo Sorting: Champion, Maggie Titterington / Support, Marc Thorton
The chair noted that Mark Thorton remains inaccessible. As mentioned earlier, he recently had surgery, and with
school on break, this is understandable. However, the goal was to finish sorting the photos by the end of the
school term and confirm the status. She has sent a message to check if all the folders are complete but is still
awaiting a response.
Requests and Announcements
Zii Reed stated that Caleb Hofmann’s business cards were handed to FedEx, but something went wrong with their
machines. After repairs she offered to deliver it to him, eliminating the need to wait until next month's meeting.
The Chair inquired whether there were any other requests or announcements from the committee. The following
mentions were presented:
Dr. Miguel Vazquez mentioned that they would send information about their latest project at the cemetery,
which involved raising money for a community legacy garden to honor community members and support
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which involved raising money for a community legacy garden to honor community members and support
preservation, renovation, and education. Aimed to honor both past and present veterans, offering the option
to purchase a brick with an engraved name lasting for 50 years.
Jim Burdett shared that they found an old German newspaper clipping from San Antonio about a historical
building next to the mercantile, which sold farm equipment and likely used to be a real estate company,
complete with a bar. The Chair thanked Jim Burdett.
Jim Clair brought up the mural project, referencing funding for it. The Chair confirmed that the Power Up
Grant was available and suggested it as a great option if costs were high.
Roz Wise questioned if elections were supposed to occur in June, to which The Chair affirmed that they
were.
Adjournment/Next Meeting Date
6:57PM
July 22, 2026 (CANCELED-TO RESUME IN AUGUST)
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