Citizen Volunteers of the Year Recognized

Every year, League City honors two citizen volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and expertise to making our community a better place. These men and women give countless hours to League City working side-by-side in various departments and with City staff. At the November 12 City Council meeting, Mayor Nick Long presented the 2024 recipients with their awards, which are named after two men who dedicated their lives volunteering for League City-Art Hewitt and Steve Jones.

Longtime League City Police Department volunteer Dave Lundin is the winner of the 2024 Steve Jones Inspiration Award. Dave first began volunteering with the LCPD in 2014 after graduating from the Citizen's Police Academy. He then hit the ground running and has never stopped. He has logged over 2,000 hours with the Volunteers in Policing program and holds the highest VIP certification of "Master VIP." He has made a huge impact on the VIP program as a trainer, using his expertise and patience as a retired history teacher and pastor. In 2014, Dave took on the important role of serving as the official LCPD Blue Santa. His real, full-white beard and natural jolly personality make him the perfect Santa. For the past 10 years, Dave has helped organize the LCPD Blue Santa Program and has brightened the lives of more than 100 children each year. Playing Blue Santa is truly Dave's passion. He has even recruited his wife Carol into being Mrs. Blue Santa. The two not only participate in the program each year, but they also take part in other holiday community events and accompany police officers to visit special needs children and local retirement facilities.

Volunteer Firefighter Brock Howe is the recipient of the 2024 Art Hewitt Spirit Award. Brock has spent the better part of 20 years volunteering for the League City Fire Department. During this time, he has held every position, including District Chief, and has consistently demonstrated professionalism and an unwavering commitment to serving the League City community. His contributions to Station 3 are immeasurable and he has earned the respect of his peers and the citizens of League City. His ability to lead by example, whether in day-to-day operations or during critical situations, has been an inspiration to all who serve alongside him. His versatility and willingness to take on any responsibility make him an invaluable asset to the department. In recent years, Brock has extended his leadership to the City's internal Fire Academy, where he plays a vital role in training and mentoring new cadets. This task is demanding, requiring not only time and effort but a deep commitment to the future of the department. Brock has embraced this responsibility wholeheartedly, taking the time to share his knowledge and expertise with others, ensuring that new cadets feel supported and equipped to succeed. His mentorship has had a lasting impact on many in the department, helping to build a stronger more unified team. In addition to his role with the fire department, Brock is deeply involved in community service initiatives throughout League City. Whether it's participating in community events, assisting with fire safety education, or simply lending a helping hand where needed, Brock is always ready to step up and make a difference.

Congratulations to this year's winners!