On behalf of the City Council, we are pleased to share the 2024 Annual Report. This report highlights the accomplishments of the past year and reflects the strong partnership between our residents, City leadership, and staff. Together, we have continued building a community that is safe, vibrant, and well-positioned for the future.
In 2024, we developed and adopted the Glenview Corridor Master Plan and began updating the Comprehensive Plan to guide long-term growth and investment. Voters also reauthorized the Crime Control and Prevention District for another 20 years, ensuring dedicated funding for public safety. The installation of new branding and signage along major corridors further strengthened our city’s identity and pride.
We stayed committed to fiscal responsibility by maintaining our AA bond rating, lowering the property tax rate for the second consecutive year, and creating an Employee Benefits Trust to better manage insurance costs. Operational improvements were achieved through new citywide service contracts and a focus on partnerships and shared services, while a market salary survey helped align employee compensation with industry standards.
Public safety continued to be a top priority. Our Police Department achieved a 15% decrease in overall crime, while the Fire Department successfully transitioned to MedStar EMS, maintaining strong response times. We also expanded programs that engage and educate residents, such as the Junior Public Safety Academy and new school safety initiatives.
Above all, infrastructure investment was Council’s highest priority in 2024. We carried forward street reconstruction projects in partnership with Tarrant County, launched a proactive water tank maintenance program, and adopted a new utility rate structure designed to keep pace with rising costs and fund critical improvements to water, sewer, and drainage systems. These efforts ensure our city’s core services are reliable, sustainable, and well-prepared for the future.
The progress achieved in 2024 lays the groundwork for what is yet to come. Guided by vision and strengthened by community partnership, we will continue building a Richland Hills that is stronger, safer, and more connected for generations ahead.
Mayor and City Council Table of
Sincerely,
Mayor Curtis Bergthold and the
Mayor Curtis Bergthold
Malone
Skier
Goveas
Mayor Pro Tem Douglas Knowlton
Crime Control and Prevention District
Richland Hills voters approved the reauthorization of the Crime Control and Prevention District (CCPD) for the next 20 years. Funded by the existing 3/8 cent sales tax, the CCPD supports crime reduction strategies such as citizen participation and prevention programs, replacement of police vehicles and equipment, school security and training, and enhanced training for personnel. First authorized in 2005 and reauthorized in 2010 and 2014, this approval allows the city to continue these programs without raising taxes.
The Glenview Corridor Masterplan
The Glenview Corridor Masterplan was approved in 2024, marking a major step forward in the city’s efforts to upgrade infrastructure, strengthen community identity, and improve the commercial climate and tax base. Tarrant County is contributing $5.8 million to the project. The first step in the plan is the reconstruction of Glenview Drive, marking the start of a multi-phase effort to promote long-term growth and development in the corridor.
WHY
GLENVIEW CORRIDOR?
Leverage regional momentum
Function as a catalyst for revitalization
Jumpstart economic growth
Improve brand/images
Fiscal Year 2024
General Fund Expenditures
Development Services
3200 Diana Dr. | 817-616-3770
Permits
A total of 1,105 permits were processed, including 630 construction permits and 475 general permits, reflecting steady development activity. Four special exceptions were approved following recent ordinance amendments, enabling residents to enhance their properties. Baker Landing completed its townhome development, adding new housing options to the community, while zoning for an additional townhome development, Bakers Square, was approved, bringing a 53-lot high-density single-family residential development to Richland Hills. In total, 28 dwellings were remodeled, and 18 dwellings had additions in 2024.
The Nonconforming and Zoning Special Exception ordinances were amended to allow for building beautification, supporting property enhancements across the community. Additionally, the city adopted a Short-Term Rental (STR) ordinance to regulate temporary lodging and introduced a permitting process for donation bins, ensuring their placement and use are regulated to maintain safety and organization. The city also reached a milestone by guiding the Comprehensive Plan update to the drafting stage, offering a blueprint for future growth.
New Businesses
The city’s first packaged liquor store opened following the local option election, with Liquor Dugout receiving its Certificate of Occupancy on July 3. Construction also began on the Feel Great Carwash. Several new businesses, including Puerquitos Café, Roots Café, and MPower Advance Therapy Solutions, also opened their doors, further diversifying the local economy. In addition, the city processed three Building Improvement Grants, supporting the continued enhancement and revitalization of commercial properties throughout Richland Hills.
Baker Landing Townhomes
Public Library
6724 Rena Dr. | 817-616-3760
Continued Growth
Library usage continued to rise, with 39,705 items checked out—a 17% increase from the previous year. The library welcomed 14,276 visitors, reflecting a 15% increase, and hosted 171 programs attended by 9,407 people, marking a 10% growth in participation. Staff remained dedicated to exceptional service, assisting with 18,850 reference and general inquiries throughout the year. Through the Strong Texas Libraries collection development grant, $1,000 was used to purchase books and audiobooks.
The library marked a milestone with the 10-year anniversary of the Haunted Stacks program. What was originally called “Tricks for Treats” as an event for kids to play games has become an anticipated event that transforms the library into a haunted maze for Halloween. This Haunted Stacks brought more than 1,000 people into the library for the event.
Community Compliance
6750 Baker Blvd. | 817-616-3738
Combining Forces
The Animal Services and Code Compliance departments were brought together under the Community Compliance name in April 2024. The departments were combined to improve efficiency and enhance service to the community.
One of the key objectives of the newly established Community Compliance Department was to increase engagement with residents and build stronger relationships within the community by prioritizing communication. In its inaugural year, the department made a total of 777 citizen contacts, addressing community needs in a proactive manner.
The renovated Animal Services Center celebrated its Grand Opening this year, featuring several key improvements, including a lobby renovations, expanded parking and kennels, and additional turf coverage for the outdoor dog runs.
Fire Department
3220 Rufe Snow Dr. | 817-616-3750
The Fire Department maintained its hybrid EMS transport model through the fiscal year before fully transitioning to MedStar EMS in November. Response times remained strong, with firefighters arriving within five minutes on 90% of calls and achieving a 60-second turnout time on most responses.
Continued Community Engagement
Community engagement remained a priority. The department hosted its seventh annual Citizen’s Fire Academy and, in partnership with RHPD, launched the first Public Safety Kid’s Camp to provide handson safety education. Additional collaborations included the creation of the Rehab Response Team for firefighter support and the Public Safety Honor Guard for official ceremonies. Firefighters also became certified to offer car seat safety checks, expanding services for residents.
Training efforts continued with 4,000+ hours completed, the launch of Vector Solutions online training, and the introduction of Handtevy Pediatric Treatment to improve EMS care for children. Fire prevention remained a focus, with all commercial properties inspected and hydrants tested for operational readiness. printing
Police Department
6700 Baker Blvd. | 817-616-3780
Commitment to Public Safety
The Richland Hills Police Department remained committed to public safety in 2024, with a 15% decrease in overall crime and a 15% increase in traffic violations issued, contributing to a 2.1% reduction in traffic accidents. Officers successfully investigated major cases, including the arrest of a fentanyl distributor following an overdose investigation.
The department continued proactive community policing efforts, with the Crisis Support Unit assisting individuals experiencing mental health emergencies. School safety initiatives expanded with the addition of a third School Resource Officer and the creation of a supervisor role for the program.
4,000+ training hours completed
Training and development remained a focus, with officers completing specialized courses in executive leadership, SWAT tactics, rapid response, and ballistic shield training. The department also implemented new scheduling software and introduced a solicitor monitoring program through a revision to the City Ordinance.
Through enhanced enforcement, training, and community engagement, the Richland Hills Police Department continues to serve and protect residents with professionalism and dedication.
15%
2.1% decrease in crime reduction in
Parks and Recreation
6750 Baker Blvd. | 817-616-3738
Park Upgrades
The Parks team completed several upgrades across various parks this year. At Rosebud Park, they replaced the aging playground structure and added new amenities, including picnic tables, pet waste stations, a bike rack, and grills. Essential repairs were also made to the basketball court, and the lighting timer was restored. At Kate Baker Park, the playground was repaired, a bench was replaced, and two pet waste stations were installed. The ongoing renovation includes a new parking lot, sidewalks, and the upcoming addition of a restroom and pavilion.
The Hike and Bike Trail received attention with 160 hours spent on tree line maintenance, mowing, and trash removal, alongside continued weed control efforts. Three new pet waste stations were also installed. At Creek Trail Park, tree maintenance was
prioritized, and the team added pet waste stations, grills, and a new trash receptacle. Graffiti removal was also completed to maintain the park’s inviting atmosphere. In the City Hall Plaza Complex, the Parks team worked with a landscape contractor to repair and upgrade the irrigation system, including the installation of a new irrigation control box.
The Link
6750 Baker Blvd. | 817-616-3738
Link Memberships, Programs & Revenue
The Link Event & Recreation Center closed Fiscal Year 2024 with a total revenue of $634,503.76, surpassing the budgeted goal of $571,000 and achieving 111% of the annual target.
Several revenue streams exceeded expectations, with standout performers including the After School Program, which generated $185,012, All Day Camps at $119,989 and One-Day Passes at $6,515. Insurance Assisted Memberships also performed well, generating $27,122. Seniors accounted for 64% of all membership scans, underscoring their strong engagement with The Link and reinforcing the importance of continued investment in senior-focused programs.
Link Memberships ($64,750), Athletics ($17,548), and Special Event Concessions ($2,146) present exciting opportunities for continued growth as staff works to expand programming, enhance offerings, and increase participation. Private rentals remained a strong contributor, with 754 events hosted at The Link in FY 2024, demonstrating the facility’s continued popularity as a community gathering place.
Public Works
6700 Rena Dr.| 817-616-3830
Water/Wastewater
Public Works launched a sewer line inspection program with the acquisition of a new sewer camera, ensuring more efficient monitoring and maintenance. Additionally, the Elm Park sewer line replacement was successfully completed, along with the installation of three new manholes. To support utility line repairs, a Ditch Witch Vacuum Excavator was purchased, further enhancing the department’s capabilities.
The department also completed several key projects to improve drainage and flood control, including the Latham Channel Project, which involved the installation of a new headwall, culvert, and erosion control measures. Railings were installed around the Hovenkamp drainage channel for safety, while vegetation maintenance was carried out on drainage channels citywide. Major maintenance was performed on the Big Fossil Creek Levee, and Calloway Creek cleanup was completed. To improve future planning and management, the Public Works Department began a Storm Sewer Mapping Program to enhance the city’s stormwater infrastructure.
To improve the city’s resilience to power outages, backup power generators were installed at the Booth, Rena, and Park water tanks. The Scruggs and London water tanks were also outfitted to support portable generators, further enhancing the city’s preparedness.
Streets
Construction began on Phase II of Magnolia Park, improving the city’s road network. The department also completed the reconstruction of Norton Drive (from Evergreen to Glenview) with assistance from Tarrant County, as well as the upgrade of the Baker Boulevard/Rufe Snow intersection in collaboration with TXDOT. In addition, street restriping was carried out on Handley-Ederville, and the installation of illuminated street signs along Baker Boulevard began to improve visibility and safety. Numerous crosswalks throughout the city were also restriped to enhance pedestrian safety.
Improvements were made to the drainage around the City’s Animal Services Center as well as to the parking lot for better mobility and appearance.
3800 BLOCK OF NORTON DRIVE
Evergreen Rd. to Glenview Dr. City contractors have completed curb and gutter work throughout project parameters.
6900 BLOCK OF MAGNOLIA PARK
Mimosa Dr. to Scruggs Park Dr. Included road reconstruction, water and wastewater replacement work and drainage improvements.
2800 TO 3000 BLOCKS OF ELM PARK
Oak Park Dr. to Pine Park Dr.
Replacement of sewer main and manholes. Water main line has been rerouted over the top of sewer line for more efficient use of infrastructure.
Awards and Recognition Upcoming Events
Achievement of Excellence in Libraries
The Library received the 2024 Achievement of Library Excellence Award from the Texas Municipal Library Directors Association. The Richland Hills Public Library received this award for exhibiting excellence by providing services to underserved and special populations, enhancing services, marketing in innovative ways, promoting cultural, topical, and educational programming, providing literacy support, providing summer reading clubs, pursuing collaborative efforts, supporting workforce development, and comprehensively training staff. Of the 542 public library systems in Texas, only 102 received this award in 2024
Texas Municipal Clerk Achievement of Excellence
The Office of the City Secretary once again received the Texas Municipal Clerks Office Achievement of Excellence Award in 2024. The program recognizes the statutory requirements and demands for the effective management of resources for proper governance by the municipal clerk’s office. A municipal clerk’s office must have met and demonstrated nine of 12 standards to be eligible to receive the award. Of the 595 member cities in the Texas Municipal Clerks Association, only 45 received this award in 2024.
Fire Department Accreditation
The Richland Hills Fire Department continues to maintain their Class 2 ISO rated agency status, which has been in place since 2021. ISO (Insurance Services Office) ratings are determined based on an evaluation of a City’s fire suppression system, which includes emergency communications, the fire department and the water supply. A Class 2 rating is the second-best rating a community can receive.
Police Department Accreditation
The Richland Hills Police Department was reaccredited as a Texas Police Chiefs Association Best Practices Accreditation Agency. The recognition program, which RHPD has maintained since 2019, requires agencies to prove their compliance with over 170 best practices in law enforcement to independent assessors. Compliance with these best practices reduces risk and associated costs, improves management and overall operations, and improves protection of citizens and officer safety.
As Halloween creeps up on us, we are scaring up some spooktacular fun in Richland Hills!
Link Plaza
City-Wide Clean-Up and Green-Up
Join other volunteers to clean and green Richland Hills this fall.
Hike & Bike Trail, 7203 Latham Dr.
Veterans Day Ceremony & Patriotic Picnic
Join us at the Veterans Memorial adjacent to City Hall to honor our veterans.
Veterans Memorial and The Link Plaza
Christmas Tree Lighting
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Richland Hills, and you’re sure to have a jolly good time!
Fire Chief Russell Shelley (817) 616-3755 (Administration)
Parks & Recreation
The Link
Eric Valdez (817) 616-3738
Library Services
Chantele Hancock (817) 616-3760
Finance
Sean Smith (817) 616-3800
Municipal Court
Eliza Margenau (817) 616-3825
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