Rockport Police to Receive $7,590 for July 4 Beach Security

The Aransas County Navigation District agreed Monday to reimburse the Rockport Police Department $7,590 for overtime officers assigned to Rockport Beach during the busy July 4 holiday weekend.

Police Chief Nathan Anderson told the Navigation District commissioners that the amount covers officers stationed inside the beach area only. The department will not bill for boat patrol, UTV operations, traffic control outside the beach, or work in the Key Allegro or Art Festival areas, which are handling their own security.

Anderson said the estimate dropped from an initial figure exceeding $10,000 after adjustments. Friday operations call for four officers from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, the busiest day, will have seven officers working extended hours; Sunday calls for five officers. The chief cited expected crowds of up to 60,000 in Rockport and heavy beach use as reasons for the staffing.

Commissioners approved the reimbursement after discussion about whether hotel occupancy tax funds could cover it. Officials noted the city does not use those taxes for police overtime and that the district has historically contributed to holiday security. Commissioners emphasized the value of visible law enforcement for crowd control and public safety.

The July 4 weekend falls on a Saturday this year, traditionally drawing large numbers of visitors.