Carrollton Fire Rescue and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) remind drivers that Safe Cars Save Lives. Because every vehicle recall is a safety concern, the NHTSA offers a recall look-up tool that allows drivers to check for open safety recalls on vehicles, motorcycles, and car seats.
It’s FREE and easy
1. Locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
2. Visit NHTSA.gov/recalls and enter the VIN to get details on any unrepaired recalls.
3. Download the SaferCar app, enter the VIN, and add car seats, tires, or other vehicle-related equipment to receive alerts when a recall is issued. If a vehicle is affected by a safety recall, contact a local dealership as soon as possible to schedule a recall repair.
Note: Every recall is fixed for free.
The largest vehicle recall in US history is currently ongoing, involving defective air bags that have resulted in injuries and deaths. Check if a vehicle is eligible at NHTSA.gov/Takata.
Top 6 Things to Know About the Festival
Plan for a day of free fun at Carrollton’s 15th Annual Festival at the Switchyard set for Saturday, November 8 in Downtown.
The 2025 Festival, held on the streets of Historic Downtown Carrollton, located off I-35E and Belt Line Road, promises to be a fun-filled day with local crafts and treats, arcade games and pinball machines, and rocking good shows from morning to evening. The rain or shine event kicks off at 11 a.m. and wraps up at 10 p.m.
FREE
No entry fee or ticket needed
Bring spending money for food, drinks, and shopping
Entertainment
Folklorico dancers, jugglers, magicians, martial artists, cosplayers, local school dance teams, and more
Live Music from Nationallyknown Headliners
(check City social media channels for announcement)
Free Rides & Games
Craft area, carnival games, zip line, bungee trampolines, inflatables, face painting, balloon art, and more
Food & Craft Vendors
Parking
Extremely
Limited: Ride the DART Green Line to the Downtown Carrollton Station; regular charges apply, dart.org/fares
Thank you to Sponsors (to date):
Carrollton Parks Update
Carrollton has officially adopted a new Recreation, Open Space, & Parks Master Plan to guide improvements over the next 10 years. Developed with input from residents and a variety of stakeholders, the plan reflects a balanced set of priorities that align community desires with operational needs. Highlights include trail expansions, park upgrades, preservation of natural areas such as Elm Fork Nature Preserve, and more inclusive, accessible amenities.
Stay in the Know
With 29 playgrounds, 39 athletic fields, 19 miles of hike and bike trails, a 40-acre nature preserve, two recreation centers, a senior center, a swimming complex, two splash parks, two dog parks, two soccer courts, a museum, two 18-hole disc golf courses, and a full-service tennis center plus 11 satellite courts and 10 pickleball courts, the City is regularly improving and renovating parks and recreation facilities.
Visit the link below to get the latest updates on current park projects taking place throughout the City.
cityofcarrollton.com/parks
Go Smart with a Sprinkler Controller
A great way to save water automatically is to install a WaterSense-labeled smart sprinkler controller. The controller is easy to install and simple to program using a smartphone and local weather data to help water a lawn or property the correct amount. It will even skip a sprinkler run if rain is in the forecast. Plus, many have an automated cycle-andsoak feature. Set it to run 2X per week or less and let the controller do the rest. Don’t have a WaterSense irrigation controller? Check out waterisawesome. com for weekly watering advice local to each neighborhood. Customers can even sign up for automatic update emails.
cityofcarrollton.com/water
New Solid Waste Contract
The City is entering into a new solid waste contract beginning October 1 with a few minor changes.
The City’s current residential solid waste services contract expires Tuesday, September 30. Because solid waste collection is a core service for the community, Carrollton conducted an extensive Request for Proposal (RFP) operation to competitively select a provider through a rigorous bid process. Republic Services won the bid based on the best overall combination of service and value to citizens at the lowest price. The new agreement was approved on Tuesday, August 19 and will begin Wednesday, October 1
Residents will now:
• Pay an additional $2.30 per month for solid waste services (new rate will be $26.30/month)
• Be able to set out up to three cubic yards of brush/yard waste and three cubic yards of bulk items at the curb every week
• Have the ability to bring up to six cubic yards per landfill trip, up from three, for more convenient large item drop-offs
A new Find My Truck feature will allow residents to see where solid waste trucks are on the route.
Residents will still:
• Follow the same weekly trash and biweekly recycling collection schedule
• Cut brush (tree/bush limbs and branches) into 4-foot length bundles (not exceeding 40 pounds, three cubic yards) and placing them at the curb
• Place loose, household bulk items inside the green roll-out container, while placing larger bulk items (such as mattresses or furniture) at the curb for collection
• Visit cityofcarrollton.com/ HHW or call 469-451-3713 to schedule a Household Hazardous Waste collection for free
• Call to schedule off-cycle collections outside of normal scheduled collection days for $35 per service
COMING SOON!
Regardless of which company was awarded the contract, a collection rate increase was anticipated due to rising operational costs in the 10 years since the contract was last bid. Staff negotiated the best possible rates for Carrollton solid waste customers.
For more details regarding residential solid waste and recycling, visit cityofcarrollton.com/ solidwaste or contact Utility Customer Service Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 972-466-4950.
cityofcarrollton.com/solidwaste
New Emergency Communications Center
Innovative technology remains at the forefront of NTECC operations with construction of brand new facility.
The North Texas Emergency Communications Center (NTECC), a regional partnership between the Town of Addison and the Cities of Carrollton, Coppell, and Farmers Branch, has begun building the new state-of-the-art 9-1-1 communications center here in Carrollton. The communications center will be a hardened facility, ensuring that even during natural disasters, residents will be able to reach emergency responders. The technology planned for use inside the facility is also state of the art, and will enable NTECC to provide cutting-edge public safety services.
This project was approved by City Council and NTECC’s Board of Directors based on research and data presented by NTECC Executive Director Terry Goswick. This center will save taxpayers nearly $25 million over the next 30 years by leveraging ownership rather than simply leasing a space, which is currently how NTECC operates. At the groundbreaking ceremony, Carrollton Mayor Steve Babick applauded the regional cooperation to make this new center a reality.
NTECC is a leader in 9-1-1 technology, and this new center will continue that leadership. This space has been designed to ensure reliable 9-1-1 services are provided when needed, as well as to function as an emergency operations center for the Metrocrest cities during disasters, enabling coordination of municipal services to those in need. There will be multiple security features included and varying fiber/satellite connectivity methods installed.
Countless hours by City staff within the region and the team at NTECC have been put into planning a center that is ready to serve for the next 30 years.
“I’m proud to be part of the process of building a facility in Carrollton that will serve the public needs of the region and for the partnership developed with Metrocrest Hospital Authority – this project has really been a team effort,” Goswick said.
The building is expected to be fully operational in early 2028.
ntecc911.org
Moving?
Residents and commercial businesses can start, stop, or transfer utility services quickly and easily online. Utility customers can send support documents electronically to confirm identity, ownership of the property, and authorization to open an account. (Deposit and service fees will appear on the first bill.) The City will send a return email with confirmation and a reference number. Water will be turned on or off MondayFriday by 5 p.m.; allow two business days for the request to be completed.
myaccount.cityofcarrollton.com
Don’t Fall for Fake Government Officials
Scammers are becoming increasingly bold, posing as representatives from trusted agencies and local authorities. These individuals may attempt to contact victims by phone, email, text – and, in some cases, in person – claiming money or personal information is needed to provide assistance. Legitimate government agencies will never request payments in this manner.
When encountering a suspicious call or visitor:
• Remain calm and avoid arguing.
• Do not disclose personal information. End the call or keep the door closed.
• Don’t wire money or use gift cards, cryptocurrency, or a payment app.
• Always ask for and verify identification.
• Don’t trust your caller ID.
• Verify the claim by contacting the agency directly using a trusted phone number, not one provided by the caller or visitor.
• Don’t click on links in unexpected emails, texts, or social media messages.
• Call the police if the person refuses to leave or appears threatening, and don’t pass it on to others. Just delete the message.
consumer.ftc.gov
Beware of The Big 6
Stormwater pollution is an environmental issue with far-reaching consequences for ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
When it rains, water that does not soak into the ground becomes stormwater runoff. This water flows over driveways, sidewalks, streets, parking lots, and lawns, picking up pollutants such as trash, chemicals, oils, and yard debris. It then enters the nearest storm drain and flows directly into local creeks, rivers, lakes, and bays — completely untreated. Unlike household wastewater, stormwater does not go through a filtration process at a treatment plant. This matters because the health of surface waters is directly tied to the quality of the stormwater entering them.
Polluted stormwater harms wildlife, degrades drinking water sources, and contributes to costly flooding and erosion issues. By understanding how stormwater pollution happens, committing to best practices, and avoiding The Big 6, everyone can play a role in protecting the environment.
1. Auto waste (oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, and other automotive fluids) that leaks from vehicles or is improperly disposed can degrade water quality for drinking and recreation. Just one quart of motor oil can contaminate up to 250,000 gallons of water.
Tips:
• Fix leaks promptly, clean up spills with kitty litter, and use drip pans under vehicles.
• Recycle used oil and fluids at approved facilities.
• Wash cars at commercial car washes that treat or recycle water.
2. Pet waste can carry harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, leaving unsafe minerals or elements in the water.
Tips:
• Pick up pet waste from the yard at least twice a week.
• Carry waste bags during walks to pick up waste and dispose of it in trash bins.
3. Yard waste (grass clippings, leaves, and tree trimmings) contains nitrogen and phosphorus, which contribute to nutrient overloads in waterways, causing algae blooms and depleting oxygen levels.
Tips:
• Compost or mulch.
• Blow or sweep it off sidewalks, driveways, and streets and back onto the lawn.
• Avoid blowing or sweeping it into gutters or drains.
4. Litter such as cups, wrappers, and cigarette butts clog storm drains and get mistaken for food by wildlife. Plastics break down into microplastics, which persist in aquatic ecosystems.
Tips:
• Dispose of trash properly.
• Organize or participate in community clean-ups.
• Keep lids secure on outdoor trash and recycling bins.
5. Household waste (chemicals, paints, cleaners, and other household products) can be toxic to aquatic life even in small quantities if improperly stored or dumped. They can alter the chemistry of water bodies, leading to oxygen depletion and long-term contamination.
Tips:
• Never pour chemicals down the storm drain or outside.
• Schedule a pickup and receive a collection kit by calling 469-451-3713.
• Store chemicals in sealed, labeled containers.
6. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers used to control pests and weeds can run off during rainstorms, poisoning aquatic life, disrupting ecosystems, and contributing to harmful algae blooms.
Tips:
• Use natural or organic alternatives where possible.
• Apply only when necessary and follow label instructions.
• Avoid applying before rain. Residents are encouraged to contact Environmental Services if they believe an illicit discharge or spill has occurred.
972-466-3060
cityofcarrollton.com/stormwater
Upcoming Events
Spooky Season – Check out the haunted happenings at the Carrollton Public Library. A ghoulishly delightful lineup is planned to satisfy all ages, including a screening of Hotel Transylvania (2012), PG and a Día de los Muertos story time.
Perry Pumpkin Patch & Craft Fair, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Perry Museum – Enjoy old-fashioned ambiance, beautiful photo opportunities, homemade craft vendors, a petting zoo, and a pumpkin patch. Due to limited quantities, pumpkin reservations are required.
Metrocrest Community Job Fair, Oct. 15, 3-5 p.m., Josey Ranch Lake Library – Bring resume copies and come dressed to impress. Positions cover a range of industries and experience levels. Free resume printing will be available. Preregistration is recommended.
Mother/Son Monster Mash, Oct. 18, 6-9 p.m., Creekview High School –Enjoy a kid-friendly haunted house, dancing, games, snacks, door prizes, and more. Meet real SWAT Team members and firefighters. Wear kid-friendly costumes and purchase a photo keepsake. For an early bird discount, preregister before the event at cityofcarrollton.com/ monstermash G’hosted by the Carrollton Police Officers’ Association. Sorry, no dads or daughters allowed.
Halloween Critter Hunt & Downtown Delights, Oct. 25, 4-7 p.m., Downtown Carrollton – Participate in a week-long scavenger hunt and trick-or-treating along the shops, ending on Saturday with a FREE showing of The Haunted Mansion (2003), PG, at sunset.
Books for Treats, Oct. 31, 10 a.m.5 p.m., All Ages, Hebron & Josey Library – Wear a Halloween costume and trick or treat for a free book while supplies last.
For more information and a complete list of upcoming events and programs, visit the link below.
