It is an exciting time in Huntsville and Walker The Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce serves as a key role in our community, working hand in hand with local businesses, the city, the county, the university, our churches, our schools and other organizations to make a significant impact.

So, on behalf of our Chamber Board of Directors, we welcome you to our community. Many great opportunities are knocking on our doors all across Walker County.

Throughout this magazine, you will have access to our membership, those businesses that support our mission and partner with the Chamber on ensuring a positive business climate and enjoyable quality of life for our residents. Throughout these pages, you’ll find some of the best businesses. By supporting these businesses, you are helping to stimulate our economy. We encourage you to visit the fine businesses found throughout this publication.

Beautiful tall pine trees, serene lakes and rolling hills are vivid descriptors of this region of the great state of Texas, and we cordially extend an invitation to visit. Where else can you go to stroll around the downtown square in a warm relaxing atmosphere?

So, we say welcome; so glad you are here, and hope you enjoy your stay! Daily, we have the opportunity to greet people from all over the world at our Chamber. We market this community with great pride — pride for the people, the places and the history that make our county a truly memorable place “where a warm welcome awaits.”

Whether you are here for a few short hours or the rest of your life — enjoy it. Flip through this magazine to find what you need, and if you need additional information, the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce is a great place to turn.

We look forward to seeing you soon! Within walking distance from our beautiful downtown area, and the Walker County Courthouse, we are also available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.
to 5 p.m. Or, give us a call at (936) 295-8113.

Climate and Geographical Facts

Huntsville
Average annual rainfall49.1 inches
Average annual temperature67.45º F
– Source: www.usclimatedata.com

Emergency/Medical
In case of emergency, dial 911.

Hospital
Huntsville Memorial Hospital(936) 291-3411
110 Memorial Hospital Dr.
www.huntsvillememorial.com

Fire Departments
Huntsville Fire Department
(936) 291-3047
2109 Sam Houston Ave.
www.huntsvilletx.gov

New Waverly Volunteer Fire Department
(936) 344-6911
411 FM 1375 E., New Waverly

Police Department
Huntsville Police Department
(936) 291-5480
1220 11th St.
www.huntsvilletx.gov

Department of Family and Children Services
2507 Lake Rd., Ste. B
(936) 291-0772

Government

Federal

U.S. Senators
John Cornyn
(713) 572-3337
5300 Memorial Dr., Ste. 980, Houston
www.cornyn.senate.gov

Ted Cruz
(713) 713-3057
808 Travis St., Ste. 1420, Houston
www.cruz.senate.gov

U.S. Representatives
Congressman Kevin Brady, District 8
(936) 439-9532
1300 11th St., Ste. 400, Huntsville
www.kevinbrady.house.gov

State Senator
Senator Charles Schwertner, District 5
(979) 776-0222
3000 Briarcrest Dr., Ste. 202, Bryan
www.senate.state.tx.us

Representative
Representative Ernest Bailes, District 18
(512) 463-0570
P.O. Box 1116, Shepherd, TX 77371
www.house.state.tx.us

Local

City of Huntsville
(936) 291-5400
1212 Ave. M

Mayor
Andy Brauninger
abrauninger@huntsvilletx.gov

City Council

Ward 1
Joe Emmett
jemmett@huntsvilletx.gov

Ward 2
Tish Humphrey
thumphrey@huntsvilletx.gov

Ward 3
Ronald Allen
citysecretary@huntsvilletx.gov

Ward 4
Joe Rodriguez
jrodriguez@huntsvilletx.govx.gov

Position 1
Paul Davidhizar
pdavidhizar@huntsvilletx.gov

Position 2
Tyler McCaffety
tmccaffety@huntsvilletx.gov

Position 3
Clyde Loll
cloll@huntsvilletx.gov

Position 4
Keith D. Olson
kolson@huntsvilletx.gov

County Commissioners
Precinct 1, Danny Kuykendall
(936) 295-3641

Precinct 2, Ronnie White
(936) 295-6963

Precinct 3, Bill Daugette
(936) 295-7999

Precinct 4, Jimmy Henry
(936) 435-8777

City of New Waverly
(936) 344-6621
Nathaniel James, Mayor

City of Riverside
(936) 594-2520
John LeMaire, Mayor

Courthouses (County Clerk)
Walker County Courthouse
(936) 436-4922
1100 University Ave., Ste. 201, Huntsville

Huntsville Municipal Court
(936) 291-5476
717 FM 2821 Rd., W, Ste. 200, Huntsville

Library
Huntsville Public Library
(936) 291-5472
1219 13th St.

New Waverly Public Library
(936) 344-2198
9732 State Hwy. 75 S.
www.newwaverlypubliclibrary.org

Registrations

Automobile Drivers License
City of Huntsville
(936) 295-1578
523 State Hwy. 75 N.

License Plates and Registration
1301 Sam Houston Ave., Ste. 100 Huntsville
(936) 436-4950

Education

Public Schools
Huntsville ISD
(936) 435-6300
441 FM 2821 E.
www.huntsville-isd.org

New Waverly ISD
(936) 344-6751
355 Front St.
www.new-waverly.k12.tx.us

Private Schools

Alpha Omega Academy
(936) 438-8833
3891 Hwy. 30 W., Huntsville
www.alphaomegaacademy.org

Faith Lutheran School
(936) 291-1706
111 Sumac Rd., Huntsville
www.faithhuntsville.org

Tomorrow’s Promise Montessori School
(936) 435-0303
2817 Old Houston Rd., Huntsville
www.tomorrowspromise.info

Summit Christian Academy
(936) 295-9601
3122 Montgomery Rd., Huntsville
www.scahuntsville.org

Premier High School of Huntsville
(936) 439-5204
2407 Sam Houston Ave., Ste. C

Higher Education

Sam Houston State University
(936) 294-1111
1806 Ave. J, Huntsville
www.shsu.edu

Pets

Humane Society
(936) 295-4666

Rita B. Huff Humane Society/Shelter
530 Bearkat Blvd., Huntsville
www.ritabhuff.org

Utilities

Cable and Satellite Providers
AT&T (800) 288-2020
Suddenlink (888) 822-5151

Gas and Electric
Entergy Texas (800) 368-3749
MidSouth Synergy (936) 825-5100
CenterPoint Energy (800) 259-5544

Telephone
AT&T Residential (800) 288-2020
AT&T Commercial (800) 288-2020

Verizon
Residential (800) 922-0204
Commercial (800) 465-4054

Windstream
Residential (877) 347-1991

Waste Management
Solid Waste/Recycling (936) 294-5724

Water and Sewage
City of Huntsville (936) 291-5431
City of New Waverly (936) 344-6621
Riverside Water Supply Corporation (936) 594-5793
Walker County Special Utility District (936) 295-4452

2017 Major Employers

Home Health Care
Huntsville ISD
City of Huntsville
Sam Houston State University
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Walker County
Walker County Hospital Corp.
Wal-Mart Associates, Inc.
– Source: Houston-Galveston Area Council

Median value of owner-occupied housing unitsAmount
2012-16 $138,900
– Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Income Amount
Median household income
2012-16
$31,306
– Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Walker County Population No. of Residents
2017 Total Population (estimated) 72,245
– Source: U.S. Census Bureau

2017 Population by Ethnicity
Percentage
White 73.0%
Black or African-American 23.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native0.8%
Asian 1.2%
Two or more races1.5%
Hispanic or Latino18.0%
– Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Taxes Rate
City of Huntsville 0.3809
Walker County 0.6157
Huntsville ISD 1.1800
Hospital District 0.1346
Walker County ESD 1 0.0600
Walker County ESD 2 0.1000
Retail Sales TaxPercentage
City of Huntsville 1.50%
Walker County 0.50%
State 6.25%
– Source: City of Huntsville and Walker County Appraisal District

Promoting business success, the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce is the top resource for companies seeking opportunities to grow and promote their businesses and services. Chamber membership provides immediate benefits through a host of opportunities for networking, advertising and education.

“Benefits begin from the moment a member makes the important decision to join the Chamber,” said Carol Smith, past Chamber President & CEO. “They receive a full packet filled with benefits information, special offers and discounts that new members can use. There’s advertising opportunities on local radio stations, a coupon for the small business breakfast that’s held on the second Thursday of the month, and new members are highlighted in The Voice, our monthly newsletter.”

With approximately 550 members, networking with like-minded businesses and individuals is one of the most important things that members can do. In fact, it’s the No. 1 benefit of membership. New members can take advantage of a special day set aside just for them in June too, as participants in the annual New Members Showcase.

“They set up tables for displaying brochures and pertinent information about their companies and they meet all of the other new members,” Smith said. “Everyone gets a chance to speak to the group about their business, sharing details about their products and services.”

Filled with fun, and the celebration of friends and Chamber leadership, the Gala is one of the Chamber’s most widely attended events.

“We usually have up around 350 guests,” Smith said. “It’s a high point in the year, the time when the gavel is passed to the new chairman. All of the past chairs are invited, and it’s held in the ballroom at Sam Houston State University. We have a wonderful dinner and fabulous live and silent auctions.”

Ribbon cuttings are another way for members to promote their businesses. Chamber staff rolls out the red carpet, and news of each event is featured prominently on the Chamber’s website and Facebook page, providing advertising to a large audience.

“We come to the business and conduct a small ceremony,” Smith said. “It’s very uplifting to welcome new members this way.”

And every month, the ever-popular Business After Hours is the perfect occasion to rub elbows, get acquainted and learn about new businesses and Chamber events.

“It’s all about getting connected and learning about what’s going on in the community and other businesses,” Smith said. “It’s sponsored by a single company; sponsorship opportunities are available at most of our events. It’s one more way the Chamber helps businesses build recognition for their companies.”

Deeply vested in community development, the Chamber reaches into legislative and educational affairs, too by sponsoring the Huntsville Leadership Institute (HLI). About 20 community members are screened and selected for HLI each year, and they participate in a nine-month program that trains them in leadership and civic responsibility.

“HLI also focuses on community awareness, networking and relationships,” said Chamber Events Manager Laura Green.

Supporting college students and educational attainment, the Chamber annually awards the Mary Frances Park Memorial Scholarship. Its value is $1,500.

“It’s awarded to a high school senior who will attend Sam Houston State University,” said Chamber Office Manager Shannon Higbie. “The board of directors screens the applications – we usually have about 15 students who apply – and choose the recipient. The money can be used toward college expenses, such as tuition or books and supplies.” n
By Cathy Cuthbertson

Searching for an area full of fun, family and fellowship? Look no further than the city of Huntsville and Walker County. The quality of life offered to visitors and residents is like no other. The community prides itself on their outstanding scholastics, plentiful work opportunities and attractions and events sure to entertain all.

The family-centered community is bustling with festivals, parades and seasonal events, providing entertainment for all ages. The annual Fair on the Square, held the first Saturday in October, has been a main attraction in the Huntsville area for nearly 45 years. Staged in the heart of historic downtown Huntsville, the fair is hosted by the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce and features nearly 400 booths, including unique items, some handcrafted, sure to help shoppers get ready for the Christmas and fall holidays. The fair also features live music on stage in the beer garden for an afternoon of sipping on a beverage while soaking in some Texas country music. The Wine Knot provides a quaint atmosphere for patrons to sip and taste wine from many Texas Vineyards and also enjoy cheese, fruit and crackers provided by the new local H.E.B. store, as well as food pairings from several local restaurants. There is even something for the children at the Kids Korner. From petting zoos to bungee runs, kids of all ages are sure to have a great time.

The Walker County Fair & Rodeo has brought in crowds for 40 years. This 10-day event each March pays homage to many strong traditions in the area. Guests will enjoy the queen and court pageant, barbecue cookoff, fair food, rides, livestock and music.

However, these festivities aren’t all that bring visitors to the area.

Visitors and historians also come to the area to learn more about the legendary Sam Houston. Huntsville became the home of Sam Houston who served as the first and third president of the Republic of Texas, governor of Texas, governor of Tennessee, U.S. senator and Tennessee congressman. Houston’s life in Huntsville is commemorated by a 77-foot statue near Interstate 45, his grave and the Sam Houston Memorial Museum.

In addition, the Sam Houston Folk Festival is held annually and is sponsored by a committee associated with the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, said Huntsville City Secretary Lee Woodard.

Sam Houston was also honored by the naming of Sam Houston State University in Huntsville. For more than 137 years, the university has strived to honor its historical roots through excellence both in the classroom and with extracurricular activities.

While the university continues its tradition of excellence, the local K-12 schools also receive excellent marks and contribute to a high quality of life. The area boasts three public school districts, as well as two private school, providing families with ample educational choices for their children.

The area also doesn’t fall short when it comes to dining options, from sushi to deli foods, just about any cuisine can be found. Many new restaurants have put down roots in Huntsville during recent years and more are in the works.

In addition to area eateries, the Business and Community Expo and Taste of Huntsville have given residents and visitors an opportunity to try out tasty treats supplied by area restaurants. The expo, sponsored by the Chamber, has been showcasing local businesses through this event for more than 30 years. n By Gennie Taylor

Culture and creativity, arts and performances, natural parks and plenty of sporting events are the hallmarks of life in Huntsville-Walker County. A bounty of attractions and events brings visitors year-round, and newcomers to the community will find plentiful options for housing, from affordable apartments to luxury homes.

And when it comes to rankings for amenities overall, Huntsville-Walker County is tops: It earns an A+ according to areavibes.com, the website that ranks livability factors in cities around the nation.

Shaping the charm and robust lifestyle of the region, Sam Houston State University plays an enormous role facilitating the good life. Serving more than 18,000 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students, the university’s Carnegie classification places it in the top seven percent of U.S. higher education institutions in the region. It’s a magnet for businesses and amenities. A natural hub for creatives and intellectuals, university events beckon visitors to a host of experiences on campus.

The renowned music department at Sam Houston State University offers annual concerts and choirs, as well as performances for students and the community. Top talent — composers, singers and musicians — shape the spirit of the community, well beyond the campus.

“The training young people get at SHSU goes beyond skills and gets into the community through acts of service and leadership,” said Dr. Dale Underwood, choir leader and member of the Chamber’s executive board. “Our community Christmas events include the participation of extremely talented students in both the choir and orchestra. SHSU faculty and students alike can be found year-round in our communities tutoring kids and leading through acts of service.”

By design, universities generate great conversations. Led by distinguished faculty and speakers from around the world, there are plenty of opportunities to attend lectures and leadership events about cutting-edge happenings shaping world politics, from health care to global warming.

Attracted by a youthful vibe and cutting edge research generated by SHSU, young entrepreneurs and business owners are finding success. Some find the ultimate sweet spot. Opening in 2016, the Best Box Ever Bakery Ever serves up delectable confections from cookies to cupcakes. There’s even a special monthly subscription service.

Filling the niche for Bearkat clothing, regalia and décor, the Barefoot Campus Outfitter supplies caps, T-shirts, baby items and gifts to take home. Pets get in on the action, too. Find collars and sweaters in orange and white to adorn any pup’s Bearkat spirit.

Sports aficionados enjoy hours of entertainment at the 14,000-seat Elliot T. Bowers Stadium when the university’s Bearkats football team rushes the field in anticipation of another exciting victory, which included participation in the NCAA Division 1 FCS football play-offs the last seven years in a row. The Bearkats made an appearance at the college baseball super-regional tournament in 2017. Can’t make the game? Just tune in to the Bearkat Sports Network broadcast locally on 101.7 FM or visit www.gobearkats.com for full coverage.

Out and about, visit the Sam Houston National Forest, art galleries and trendy eateries. Explore the history of Huntsville in a host of venues and museums. Don’t miss the annual General Sam Houston Folk Festival, held each May on the grounds of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum. Two lively days celebrate Texas culture, including performances of the Ballet Folklorico de Huntsville. Characters in period costumes participate in delightful displays of craft making, arts and music.

By Cathy Cuthbertson