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1. Where is the court located?

The Court is located at:
City Hall
200 Rusk Street
Pittsburg, TX 75686

2. Where can I park?

Parking is extremely limited in front of City Hall, however there is extra parking across the street.

3. What if I need special accommodations for my disability?

Any persons with disabilities who require special accommodations or assistance should notify the Pittsburg Municipal Court by calling the Court at 903-856-3621 prior to the date of their hearing.

4. Do I have to appear in court?

If your violation requires a mandatory appearance, you must appear in court. If you wish to contest any charge you can appear at the date and time listed on your citation. If your violation does not require a mandatory appearance, you can pay your fine using one of several options.

5. Do I need an attorney to represent me in court?

Your Representation

This is ultimately a question that you alone must answer. You have the constitutional right to represent yourself in any criminal proceeding in the Pittsburg Municipal Court. In most circumstances, it would not be necessary to retain an attorney for cases such as simple traffic matters.

City Representation

The City will be represented by an experienced prosecutor who is a trained attorney. You will be expected to know and follow the rules of procedure and evidence, as well as the proper method of asking questions. Also, remember that the Judge is not allowed to help you.

6. What is an arraignment?

The defendant’s first appearance in court will normally be the arraignment. An arraignment shall be conducted within 48 hours of arrest if the defendant is still in jail. If the defendant has been released on his own recognizance or has posted a bond or cash bail, the arraignment will occur within a short time period after the defendant’s release from jail.

Constitutional Rights

At the arraignment, the defendant is informed of the charges against him and he/she is asked to enter a plea. The plea may be one of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. If the defendant enters a plea of guilty or no contest (nolo contendere), the judge may, in most circumstances, impose a sentence immediately. If the defendant enters a plea of not guilty, the matter is set for trial. Prior to entering a plea, the defendant is also informed of his constitutional rights, involving the following:

I understand that I have the following constitutional rights at the time of my arraignment in Pittsburg Municipal Court:

1. I may plead Guilty, Nolo Contendere, or Not Guilty to the offense(s) with which I am charged. If I plead Guilty or Nolo Contendere, I give up the right listed below. If I plead Not Guilty I will be given a court date for trial.
2. At trial I have the right to make the City (prosecutor) prove the charge(s) against me beyond a reasonable doubt.
3. To do this, the City is required to call witnesses. I have the right to confront and cross-examine those witnesses.
4. I also have the right to use the subpoena power of this Court to bring in witnesses to testify in my own behalf.
5. I have the right to remain silent at trial and not incriminate myself. I do not have to make any statement, nor do I have to testify.
6. I have the right to appeal any judgment of the Pittsburg Municipal Court. I understand that I must file the appeal within ten days of judgment and post bond 2 times the amount of the fine and court cost.

7. What is the difference between pleas of not guilty, guilty, and nolo contendere (no contest)?

A not guilty plea means that the defendant asserts that he/she did not commit the offense and he/she demands a trial. A guilty plea means that the defendant admits committing the offense. A plea of nolo contendere (no contest) means that while the defendant does not admit the allegations in the citation or complaint, he/she does not deny them either. The defendant does not contest the charge and he/she is subject to the same sanctions or penalty as he/she had pled guilty. A defendant does not make an admission of guilt when he/she pleads nolo contendere.

8. How can I get my witnesses to appear in court?

At the Defendant’s request, the Court Clerk will issue subpoenas to ensure the appearance of witnesses and/or the production of evidence on behalf of the Defendant. However, service of the subpoenas is the sole responsibility of the Defendant. The Defendant should obtain subpoenas as soon as the trial is set.

9. How can I request a continuance on my trial date?

All requests for continuance or postponement of the trial must be made in writing and should be made at least 10 days before trial. You must serve a written copy of your request on the City Attorney. The Court will only grant your request if you have shown good cause. Do not assume your request has been granted. Check back with the Court. Absolutely no requests for continuance by telephone will be granted.

10. What can I expect at my trial?

All trials in Municipal Court are bench trials; that is, the Judge alone hears the evidence and decides the case. There is no jury.

Opening Statements

The Prosecutor and the Defendant will be given the opportunity to make an opening statement. An opening statement is not required. It may be reserved for later in the trial or it may be waived. The opening statement is intended to allow the parties to state to the Court what the evidence presented will show. It is not evidence to be used by the Court in making a decision.

City Prosecutor’s Case

The City Attorney will call witnesses, some of whom may be police officers. The City Attorney will question the witness concerning any knowledge they may have of the facts of the case. After the City Attorney finishes questioning a particular witness, you as the Defendant then have a right to cross-examine the witness. Cross-examination means asking questions concerning the facts to which the particular witness has testified. This is not the time for you to testify.

The cross-examination questions should be directed to the witness’ testimony to test the witness’ recollection of facts. Each witness is treated in this same fashion. After the cross-examination is completed, the City Attorney will have the opportunity to conduct a re-direct examination. This means the City Attorney may ask additional questions only on facts or statements of a witness given on cross-examination.

When the City Attorney finishes calling all his/her witnesses, the City will rest its case. The City has the burden of proving its case beyond a reasonable doubt by competent evidence presented to the Court. If the City has failed to prove its case at this time in the trial, the case may be dismissed.

Defendant’s Case

If the Defendant elects to proceed, he may testify under oath but is not, and cannot be, required to testify. If the Defendant chooses to testify, the City Attorney has the right to conduct a cross-examination. Also, the Defendant may present witnesses at this time in the trial. The City Attorney may cross-examine these witnesses.

Testimony should be restricted to the facts surrounding the charge before the Court. Testimony as to what someone said is not admissible as evidence unless the person who made the statement is present for cross-examination. Prior driving habits and prior driving records are not admissible as evidence at a trial.

At the conclusion of the Defendant’s case, the City Attorney will be given the opportunity to call witnesses to rebut the testimony of the Defendant or his witness. If the City Attorney calls rebuttal witnesses, the Defendant is allowed to call witnesses to rebut that testimony.

Conclusion of the Trial

When both the City and the Defendant have finished presenting their testimony and evidence, they will have the opportunity to make a closing argument. The City makes the first argument; the Defendant then makes an argument, and the City can then rebut the Defendant’s argument. A closing argument is each side’s summary of the evidence presented to the Court as viewed by each party. Closing arguments are not required and are not received by the Court as evidence to be used in making a decision. When all evidence is presented and final arguments are completed the Judge will decide the case.

If the Defendant is found guilty the Judge will then impose a sentence. Before sentencing, the Defendant will be given an opportunity to make a statement. The victim (if any) will be given an opportunity to make a victim impact statement. Any fine imposed is presumed due on the date sentence is imposed.

11. Can I attend traffic school as a means of having my citation amended or to reduce the points on my driver's license?

Generally, if the citation was not for a serious traffic violation (five points or more) and you have not had an accident or other moving traffic violation in the past three years, you can attend traffic school in order to have the citation amended to a non-moving violation. If you complete the traffic school as directed and supply proof of the completion within the allotted time period to the Court Clerk’s Office, neither the original nor the amended charge will be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Traffic School is separate and apart from the court. You will be charged a fee to attend class.

12. Can I make payments on my fine or must I pay the full amount?

You can apply for a payment extension in order to satisfy your fine. The average fine amount will be given a two-week payment extension. In exceptional circumstances, you may explain your financial situation to the Court. Community Service may be performed in lieu of the fine if approved by the court. If you are unable to satisfy the full amount of the fine on the sentencing date, you will be assessed an additional payment extension fee of 10% of the total amount owing, minimum $25, maximum $100.

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1. How can I make a donation to the Pittsburg Fire Department?

Donations can be made via one of the following methods:

• Mail:
  Central Station
  514 S Greer Boulevard
  Pittsburg, TX 75686
• In-Person:
  Central Station
  514 S Greer Boulevard
  Pittsburg, TX 75686
• In-person to a department member who will bring it to the department

Receipts can be furnished if requested. These donations are used to purchase fire/rescue-related equipment and for department functions.

2. What is legal and illegal to burn inside the city limits?

See the list of items, restrictions, and requirements under the current outdoor burning ordinance (PDF). Also note that weather conditions will need to be monitored as well.

3. How do I obtain a fire report?

To request a fire report, contact the Pittsburg Fire Department via one of the following:

• Telephone: 903-856-3621
• Email the Fire Department
• Mail:
  City Hall
  200 Rusk Street
  Pittsburg, TX 75686
• In-Person:
  City Hall
  200 Rusk Street
  Pittsburg, TX 75686

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

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4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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1. I’m a new business owner in Pittsburg on Main Street. Do I need approvals or permits before I can open my business?

Yes

• All businesses in the City of Pittsburg must meet the planning and zoning requirements for the location. Main Street in general is zoned as a B-1 or Local Business. Main Street is part of the Historical District and has special ordinances which apply. Main Street is also a Special Zoning Strict which allows for local grant eligibility.
• All businesses require a valid Certificate of Occupancy prior to occupying the business space or opening to the general public. As soon as you know you will be moving to the building, complete the Certificate of Occupancy Application at City Hall. The application goes through a review process from the Building Inspector for compliance with regulations and codes.

2. I want to make changes to my building. Do I need approval before I began?

Yes

• All buildings, depending on the changes, permits and inspections will be required from the Building Inspector.
• Any changes to the outside of the building located within the Historic District/Main Street including paint or signage required by City Ordinance to have pre-approval (before any work is completed) from the Main Street Board. This is to protect the Historical appeal and relevance of the district.
• Set up a meeting with the Main Street Manager to review the changes. Please bring any conceptual material to the meeting. The request with completed requirements will go before the Main Street Board/Design Committee for approval. They meet once a month. Once reviewed, the decision or any required actions will be communicated.

3. I want to put up a new business sign. Do I need a permit?

Yes

• All businesses are required to follow the City Signing Ordinances and require a permit (located at City Hall). The first sign is $25 and each additional sign applied for at the same time is $15.
• The Historical District/Main Street Overlay have special sign guidelines. This is to protect the Historical appeal and relevance of the district. The Main Street Manager can provide these and provide any assistance needed.

4. Can I put up a banner?

Yes

• All banners and temporary signs (see City Sign ordinances) requires a permit and have limitations and restrictions. It has to go through the Building Inspector review.
• The Historical District/Main Street Overlay has to go through the same process for other signs from the Design Committee/Main Street Board.

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1. How long are you open?

In general, we are open from mid-April until mid-September. This is subject to change based on participation and availability of staff.

2. Can I reserve for a party or field trip?

If you need to reserve the park for a party or outing that is available too. Visit the Reservations page to see the party options to know what is available and call City Hall at (903) 856-3621 with any additional questions.

3. What amenities are on-site?

• 3 Pavilions
• Air Conditioned Restrooms
• Concession stand
• Free WiFi

4. What are the rules for Splash Pittsburg?

Rules of Splash Pittsburg

• No lifeguards on duty; participate at your own risk.
• Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• No smoking or vaping (e-cigarettes) allowed.
• Not outside food, drinks, or gum allowed.
• Appropriate swim attire is required to use the splash park.
• Swim diapers are required for young children
• Diaper changes are not allowed within 6 feet of the splash pad.
• No pets allowed.
• No skateboards, bicycles, or other items with wheels are allowed.
• No rough-housing, aggressive behavior and/or no profanity.
• Adult supervision required at all times.
• Swim shoes are recommended.

What to Bring

• Sunscreen
• Towel
• Water shoes recommended
• Appropriate swimwear required
• Swim diapers are required for young children
• No outside food, drinks, or gum allowed.

What Not to Bring

• Food, drinks, coolers, or grills not allowed inside the splash park
• Chewing gum is not allowed inside the park (help keep the park nice)
• No plastic toys, balloons, or water toys allowed
• No alcohol, tobacco, smoking or e-cigarettes allowed
• No glass containers
• No pets allowed

What’s Provided

• Covered pavilions and tables first come first serve
• Separate men and women’s air-conditioned restroom facilities
• Baby changing station in both men and women’s restroom facilities
• Full concession stand serving beverages, snow cones, and snacks

Think Safety

• No lifeguard on duty
• Children 12 years and under require adult supervision at all times.
• The surface may be hot or slippery.
• Climbing on water play equipment is prohibited.
• No pushing, rough-housing, or profanity allowed.
• No outside food or drinks (no glass allowed in the park)
• Do not drink splash pad water
• Do not participate in the water if your child is sick or ill with a contagious disease
• Immediately clear the spray area when storms or lightning is in the area

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1. apply for a special event permit?

Please visit the permits section of our website for guidelines for holding a special event and an application. If you have specific questions, you can call the Community Development Office at 903-856-3621.

2. tow a vehicle on my property?

You can have a vehicle towed off of your property by calling a tow company. This type of tow is at the property owner’s expense.

3. compliment an employee?

Please call the Pittsburg Police Department at 903-856-7201.

4. determine if someone is using my personal identifying information?

You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once every 12 months. You can request all three reports at once, or space them out throughout the year. Learn about other situations in which you can request a free credit report by visiting the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information website.

Request Your Free Credit Report

• By Phone: Call 877-322-8228. Deaf and hard of hearing consumers can access the TTY service by calling 711 and referring the Relay Operator to 800-821-7232.
• By Mail: Complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form (PDF) and mail it to:
  Annual Credit Report Request Service
  P.O. Box 105281
  Atlanta, GA 30348

5. see if someone is in jail?

You can call Camp County Jail at 903-856-6651.

6. report suspected elder/child abuse?

Please call 800-252-5400.

7. obtain a protective order?

There are very specific guidelines for a protective order and it must be granted by a District Court. An application for a protective order can be obtained at the Pittsburg Police Department or at the District Attorneys’ office.

8. contest a citation?

Call the Municipal Court Clerk at 903-856-3621. The Department does not dismiss citations.

9. report criminal activity?

Please call 903-856-3330.

10. pay a citation?

Call the Municipal Court at 903-856-3621 or visit City Hall, located at 200 Rusk Street.

11. report a concern?

Please call 903-856-3330 to report a concern.

12. file a complaint against an officer?

A complaint against an officer must be reduced to writing and signed by the person filing the complaint. Call the Department at 903-856-7201.

13. obtain a copy of my criminal history?

You can obtain a copy of your criminal history by visiting the Texas Records website.

14. get fingerprinted?

Unfortunately, the Department does not provide electronic fingerprinting services. The closest location is Education Service Center (ESC) Region 8 located at:
4845 U.S. Highway 271 N
Pittsburg TX 75686.

15. copy of my driving record?

Obtain a copy of your driving record by visiting the State of Texas website.

16. hire an officer to work security?

Please call Lieutenant Matthew Lemarr at 903-856-7201.

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1. How much is service?

The rate for hand-collected residences is $17.96 + sales tax per month. For commercial rates please call City Hall at 903-856-3621 as those fees may vary depending on the type of container needed.

2. What is my pick-up day?

Use the map below to locate where you live and find your service days. The purple shaded area is Monday and Thursday pick-up day and the peach shaded area is Tuesday and Friday pick-up days. 

3. Do you offer bulk pick-up?

The City of Pittsburg offers bulk item pick-up on the last pick up of each month to all residential customers. Please see the Bulk Pick-Up Schedule for those dates. Collection of items/garbage at any other time can be requested by calling City Hall at 903-856-3621.

2023 Bulk Pick Up Schedule

Thursday	Friday
January 26	January 27
February 23	February 24
March 30	March 31
April 27	April 28
May 25	May 26
June 29	June 30
July 27	July 28
August 24	August 25
September 28	September 29
October 26	October 27
November 23	November 24
December 28	December 29

4. Do you pick-up brush?

Limbs will need to be cut into three feet in length and bundled for the Sanitation Solutions truck to pick up. No loose limbs will be picked up by the truck. For large limbs or brush, call City Hall at 903-856-3621 to schedule a special pick-up.

5. What other services do you offer?

• City customers will get one free garbage pick-up per calendar year for items requiring special handling or pick-up including tree limbs and brush.
• Demolition materials and construction debris shall be picked-up at a fee of $50 for each six cubic yard load.
• Tree limbs must be picked up separately from other kinds of trash.
• The minimum fee for each pick-up shall be $50. All garbage must be bagged, even if it is placed in trash cans.
• Call City Hall at 903-856-3621 for observed holidays and how it will affect your residential collection.
• There is no charge for storm-related limb pick-up.

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1. When will I get my bill and when is it due?

Water bills are mailed on the last business day of each month, and due by the 10^th to avoid a 10% late charge.  Late bills are due on the 20^th to avoid a $40.00 non-payment fee and disconnection of service.

You may sign for an extension once every 6 months.  Extensions must be signed by 5:00 p.m. on the 20^th.

2. I need to turn off/on my meter. What do I need to do?

The City does not allow customers to turn the water meters on & off.  Should you need water turned off or on due to a leak or repairs, please call City Hall or a licensed plumber only.
There will be a $20.00 charge for each off & on and a $50.00 each for after hours, weekend & holidays.

3. What happens when I move?

Please let us know when you are moving or you will be responsible for water that is used in your name.  We will need a forwarding address for your final bill or a refund of your deposit.