CITY PRESS OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2026 VOLUME 34, ISSUE 6
635 EAST
City's Busiest Corridor Gets $1.7 Billion Boost
Early Voting: Oct. 19-30 Election Day: Nov. 3 Garland Tax Rate Election At its Aug. 17 Regular Meeting, the Garland City Council voted unanimously to call a special election for Tuesday, Nov. 3, putting the City’s adopted property tax rate for 2026-27 on the ballot. Council called the election following public meetings, City Council discussions and community input.
What exactly will I see on the ballot? OFFICIAL BALLO T
·
CITY O F GARLAND, TEXAS
PROPOSITION A To vote, completely fill in the oval next to your choice.
THIS IS A TAX INCREASE. ƉƉƌŽǀŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ĂĚ ǀĂůŽƌĞŵ ƚĂdž ƌĂƚĞ ŽĨ ΨϬ͘ϲϳϵϵϬϬ ƉĞƌ ΨϭϬϬ ǀĂůƵĂƚŝŽŶ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŝƚLJ ŽĨ 'ĂƌůĂŶĚ͕ dĞdžĂƐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĐƵƌƌĞŶƚ LJĞĂƌ͕ Ă ƌĂƚĞ ƚŚĂƚ ŝƐ ΨϬ͘Ϭϯϲϲϰϲ ŚŝŐŚĞƌ ƉĞƌ ΨϭϬϬ ŽĨ ǀĂůƵĂƚŝŽŶ ƚŚĂŶ ƚŚĞ ǀŽƚĞƌͲĂƉƉƌŽǀĂů ƚĂdž ƌĂƚĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŝƚLJ ŽĨ 'ĂƌůĂŶĚ͕ dĞdžĂƐ͕ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ƉƵƌƉŽƐĞ ŽĨ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐŝŶŐ ƐƚĂĨĨ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ƉŽůŝĐĞ ĚĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ͕ ĨŝƌĞ ĚĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ͕ ϵͲϭͲϭ ĚŝƐƉĂƚĐŚ ĚĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ƉĂƌŬƐ ĚĞƉĂƌƚŵĞŶƚ͕ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐŝŶŐ ĨƵŶĚŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ ƌŽĂĚǁĂLJ ĐŽŶƐƚƌƵĐƚŝŽŶ ĂŶĚ ŵĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ͕ ŵĂŝŶƚĂŝŶŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ĞŶŚĂŶĐŝŶŐ ůĞǀĞůƐ ŽĨ ĐŝƚLJͲǁŝĚĞ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵƉĞƚŝƚŝǀĞ ƉĂLJ ĨŽƌ ƉƵďůŝĐ ƐĂĨĞƚLJ ĂŶĚ ĐŝƚLJ ƉĞƌƐŽŶŶĞů͘ >ĂƐƚ LJĞĂƌ͕ ƚŚĞ ĂĚ ǀĂůŽƌĞŵ ƚĂdž ƌĂƚĞ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ŝƚLJ ŽĨ 'ĂƌůĂŶĚ͕ dĞdžĂƐ ǁĂƐ ΨϬ͘ϲϴϵϳϰϲ ƉĞƌ ΨϭϬϬ ǀĂůƵĂƚŝŽŶ͘
FOR AGAINST
Why is the City holding an election? The City adopted a property tax rate of $0.679900 per $100 of taxable value for the 2026-27 tax year, which exceeds the City’s voter-approval tax rate of $0.643254. Under Section 26.07(e) of the Texas Tax Code, voter approval is required before the adopted rate may take effect.
Why does the ballot say “THIS IS A TAX INCREASE” if the overall property tax rate is decreasing whether or not the election passes? State law requires a ballot proposition seeking voter approval of a tax increase to display the phrase "THIS IS A TAX INCREASE" in capital letters at the top of the proposition text. It applies to this proposition because voters are being asked to consider an adopted M&O rate that is above the voter-approval M&O rate.
What’s the potential impact to the City’s operating budget? The 2026-27 adopted budget allocates approximately $7.2 million of the additional M&O revenue associated with the adopted rate to specified positions, programs and operating expenditures, including: y 10 Police Officer positions and four vehicles
y $554,500 for library materials and resources
y Nine Firefighter positions and Firefighter overtime y Eight 911 Dispatcher positions
y $396,855 for the following City-produced special events: Art Made Here, Asian American Heritage Festival, Juneteenth, Fall Fest & Guzzler Run, Día de los Muertos, Sensory-Friendly Christmas and 12 Music Made Here concerts
y Three Animal Services Technician positions
y $765,821 for parks maintenance, City landscaping and parks security
If voters do not approve Proposition A, the voter-approval rate of $0.643254 per $100 of taxable value will take effect, and the City would receive less in M&O revenue than anticipated in the adopted budget. The City Council would then consider and adopt any budget amendments necessary to account for the reduced revenue. Those amendments will most likely affect the positions, programs, services and operating expenditures listed above, as well as other available budgetary resources or expenditures.
2
GARLAND CITY PRESS
Featured Inside This Issue
How the adopted rate is structured PART
WHAT IT PAYS FOR
2025
2026 FOR
2026 AGAINST
M&O
Day-to-day services: police, fire, 911, streets, parks, libraries and payroll
$0.288657
$0.320000
$0.283354
I&S
Principal and interest on bonds and certificates of obligation
$0.401089
$0.359900
$0.359900
$0.689746
$0.679900
$0.643254
TOTAL
What could this mean for my City tax bill? MARKET VALUE
TAXABLE VALUE
2026 FOR
DIFFERENCE 2026 BETWEEN FOR AGAINST AND AGAINST
$335,552 $290,096 (average home (includes 11% City $1,972.36 $1,866.05 $106.31/year or $8.86/month value in Garland) homestead exemption)
Compared with 2025, at the same property value TAXABLE VALUE
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 2025 AND 2026 FOR
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 2025 AND 2026 AGAINST
$290,096
-$28.56/year or -$2.38/month
-$134.87/year or -$11.24/month
*The effect on an individual property owner’s City tax bill depends on the property’s taxable value, exemptions and the rate that takes effect.
Saturday, Oct. 24 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 25 Noon-6 p.m. (Dallas County) 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (Collin County)
4
City Celebrates Completion of 635 East Rebuild
04 CITY COUNCIL City Meeting Schedule Spotlight on Garland
05 CITY NEWS Four Facilities to Open in October! GP&L Electric Rate Reduction
06 NEIGHBORHOODS & DEVELOPMENT Garland Neighborhood Awards Scams Uncovered Police Presentation Streets Updates
08 CITY SERVICES
Voting dates and times: Monday, Oct. 19 – Friday, Oct. 23 7 a.m.-7 p.m. (Dallas County) 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (Collin County)
PAGE
10th Annual Tri-City Litter Cleanup Tuesday, Nov. 3 7 a.m-7 p.m.
Big 4 Recycle Collection Event Lead Service Line Inventory Update Holiday Grease Roundup
Monday, Oct. 26 – Friday, Oct. 30 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Electricity Safety and Energy Savings
Early voting locations: Dallas College Garland Center Conference Rooms A & B 675 W. Walnut St. Garland
North Garland Branch Library Program Room 3845 N. Garland Ave. Garland
Vietnamese Community Center Front & Back Room 3221 Belt Line Road Garland
Makkah Masjid (IDEA) Back Multipurpose Room 3301 W. Buckingham Road Garland
South Garland Branch Library Program Room 4845 Broadway Blvd. Garland
Michael J. Felix Community Center 3815 E. Sachse Road Sachse (Collin County voters)
*The list of official voting centers for this election has not been released, but the locations listed are typical early voting centers. Visit DallasCountyVotes.org and CollinCountyTX.gov/Elections for Election Day locations.
Scan the QR code or visit VoteGarland.com for more information and a personal tax impact calculator.
10 QUALITY OF LIFE Rec Center Events Seniors in the Know Events from the Arts Downtown Events Alebrijes Fall Crawl Craft Beer Tasting Trail Día de los Muertos EMAIL
ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Garland@GarlandTX.gov
ON THE WEB GarlandTX.gov VisitGarlandTX.com
@GarlandTXgov City of Garland, Texas Government #GarlandTX
OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2026
3
CITY COUNCIL
City Meeting Schedule
City Council Members
Citywide Tax Rate Election Town Halls
MAYOR
Before heading to the polls, make plans to attend one of our informational meetings about the City of Garland's Proposition A on the ballot.
DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 2
All meetings are held at City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St., streamed live at GarlandTX.tv and broadcast live on CGTV. Closed captioning is available in English and Spanish for City Council Regular Meetings and Work Sessions, and Plan Commission meetings.
City Council Work Sessions z Live broadcast 6 p.m. Oct. 5 and 19 and Nov. 2, 16 and 30 z Rebroadcast the following Tuesday, Thursday and Friday – 9 a.m. Wednesday and Thursday – 7 p.m.
Upcoming Town Halls include: y 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8: Holford Recreation Center, 2314 Homestead Place
Dylan Hedrick 469-560-6099 Mayor@GarlandTX.gov
DISTRICT 3
Jimmy Tran 972-477-3260 Council1@GarlandTX.gov
DISTRICT 4
Justin Caraway 469-301-4051 Council2@GarlandTX.gov
DISTRICT 5
z Live broadcast 7 p.m. Oct. 5 and 20, and Nov. 1 and 17 z Rebroadcast the following Wednesday – 9 a.m., Friday – 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday – 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Channel 16 (Spectrum), Channel 44 (Frontier) and Channel 99 (AT&T U-verse)
Keep up with the latest public meetings.
Ed Moore 214-243-3053 Council3@GarlandTX.gov
Christina Segoviano 469-668-5711 Council4@GarlandTX.gov
Margaret Lucht 469-264-3556 Council5@GarlandTX.gov
DISTRICT 6
DISTRICT 7
DISTRICT 8
The Council Chamber at Garland City Hall is wheelchair accessible, and ADA parking is available on State Street as well as in the public parking garage behind City Hall. Persons who may need assistive listening devices or interpretation/translation services are asked to contact the City Secretary’s Office at 972-205-2404 as soon as possible prior to the meeting so that we may do all we can to provide appropriate arrangements.
Carissa Dutton Deputy Mayor Pro Tem 972-998-8542 Council6@GarlandTX.gov
Joe Thomas Jr. 972-439-6637 Council7@GarlandTX.gov
Chris Ott Mayor Pro Tem 972-987-9149 Council8@GarlandTX.gov
Go to GarlandTX.gov and choose My Garland to find out what City Council District you live in, the location of your nearest City facilities, your trash and brush pickup day and other information about City services.
City Celebrates Completion of 635 East Rebuild A celebration of the Texas Department of Transportation's six-year, $1.7 billion 635 East project took place in Garland on Sept. 14 as representatives of the City joined Dallas, Mesquite and regional transportation officials for a ribbon cutting beneath the freeway on Shiloh Road. “It is one of the major gateways to our city,” said Mayor Dylan Hedrick (pictured). “It connects our residents to jobs throughout North Texas. It connects our businesses to customers and employees, and it provides access to some of the most important commercial and redevelopment opportunities in Garland.” The 11-mile stretch of LBJ Freeway between Central Expressway and Interstate 30 is the city’s busiest traffic corridor. The reconstruction widened the freeway and provided Garland with its first-ever continuous frontage roads along its northeastern curve of Interstate 635.
4
GARLAND CITY PRESS
y 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15: Central Library, 625 Austin St.
Our Garland City Council members are proud to serve and represent approximately 250,000 residents across the city. They’re always accessible to you via phone or email. They also regularly host Town Hall events to connect with residents and keep them informed. Town Hall audio recordings are available at GarlandTX.tv. Sometimes, Town Halls cannot be scheduled enough in advance to be listed in this publication. You can track Town Halls on the public meetings calendar at GarlandTX.gov or through our Facebook and Instagram social media outlets.
Receive public meeting agendas in your inbox.
1. Visit GarlandTX.tv. 2. Click the “Meeting Agendas” link. 3. Click the “Subscriptions” button. 4. Select the agendas you want to receive.
y 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13: South Garland Library, 4845 Broadway Blvd.
Information will be the same at each Town Hall. Visit VoteGarland.com for more Tax Rate Election information.
City Council Regular Meetings
CGTV Listings
y 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12: West Garland Library, 3921 W. Walnut St.
Spotlight on Garland The Bob Day Tennis Center has received a 2026 Outstanding Facility Award from the United States Tennis Association (USTA) in the Public Courts: Large Tennis Centers category. This national award recognizes excellence in tennis facility construction and renovation. Garland's Bob Day Tennis Center, 1801 State Highway 66, was one of just 41 facilities across the country to receive the honor in 2026. This achievement was celebrated during the 2026 U.S. Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. The West Garland Library has earned national recognition for innovation! The library is one of 15 libraries featured in the 2026 Library Design Showcase by American Libraries magazine. The West Garland Library, 3921 W. Walnut St., opened its doors on Oct. 25, 2025, and provides a space for our community to read, learn and connect. Like the tennis center, it was funded through the 2019 Build Garland Bond Program.
CITY NEWS
Fire Station 1, 427 Allen St.
Jack Coleman Tennis and Pickleball Center, 845 Briarwood Drive
Four Facilities to Open in October! Garland will unveil four new facilities in October as the $423.7 million bond program passed by voters in 2019 nears its completion. Three facilities will debut on the same day—Saturday, Oct. 10. Public ribbon-cutting events will take place at 2 p.m. at Fire Station 7, 1910 Pleasant Valley Road; at 3:30 p.m. at the Jack Coleman Tennis and Pickleball Center, 845 Briarwood Drive; and at 5 p.m. at Fire Station 1, 427 Allen St. Station 1, a two-story, 20,278-square-foot building, is a dual company facility with six apparatus bays, 15 dorm rooms and nine restrooms. Station 7 is a one-story, 15,596-square-foot building with four apparatus bays, 11 dorms and seven restrooms. Both stations have features that specifically address firefighters' safety and well-being. The former tennis-only center at Rick Oden Park has been redesigned as the City’s pickleball hub, including stand-alone pickleball courts, dual usage courts and a refurbished pro shop. At 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 30, the ribbon will be cut at the new Garland Senior Activity Center, 601 W. Avenue B. The $17.5 million building, approximately 27,000 square feet, offers expanded spaces for programs, wellness services and social activities. Features include exercise rooms, a game room, a walking track, an arts and crafts room with a kiln, a library with computers, wellness consultation areas and outdoor spaces for recreation and social activities.
Programs Find New Homes as Bradfield Recreation Center and Pool Closes
GP&L Announces Electric Rate Reduction Starting Oct. 1, 2026, Garland Power & Light customers will pay less for electricity. Residential customers using an annual average of 1200 kWh per month will see monthly bills decrease on average from $163.10 to $151.10, a savings of $12 per month, or $144 per year. The rate reduction is made possible in part by lower prices in the ERCOT wholesale energy market, driven by the addition of new solar and battery storage resources. GP&L’s ongoing cost management efforts and success in generating additional revenue from expanded operations also contributed to the ability to reduce rates. "Providing competitively priced electric service to our customers is an important part of GP&L’s mission. This rate decrease keeps us highly competitive with electricity prices in the deregulated areas of North Texas," said GP&L General Manager and CEO Darrell Cline. The decrease comes as GP&L lowers the Recovery Adjustment Factor (RAF) component of the electric rate a penny, from $0.0819 per kWh to $0.0719 per kWh. This reduction will be effective for all residential customers and for commercial customers whose electric rates contain the RAF component.
After more than two months of deliberation, discussion and public input, the Garland City Council voted Aug. 17 to close Bradfield Recreation Center and Pool as part of the City’s Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget. Bradfield Recreation Center and Pool were both more than 50 years old and had major systems which had reached the end of their useful life. Programs residents know and enjoy continue at other Garland recreation facilities. Here's a list of programs and their new homes: y MVP Basketball 3v3 game night and Jiu Jitsu moved to Granger Recreation Center, 1310 W. Avenue F. y Self Defense, Soul Line Dancing, volleyball and STARS Day Camp moved to Fields Recreation Center, 1701 Dairy Road. y MVP Basketball Skills, art classes and Step Aerobics moved to Hollabaugh Recreation Center, 3925 W. Walnut St. y Guitar moved to Holford Recreation Center, 2314 Homestead Place.
y Two Halloween-themed events have been relocated to Audubon Park, 342 W. Oates Road. The Garland Graveyard haunted house will be at Audubon Recreation Center from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. The Trunk-or-Treat with trick-ortreating and a costume contest will be in the park from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. y Bradfield’s aquatic programming will be transitioned to Holford Aquatic Center, 2314 Homestead Place, and Surf & Swim, 440 W. Oates Road, with swim lesson opportunities planned to ensure families continue to have access to a variety of scheduling options, including evening classes.
Other amenities at Bradfield Park, 1220 Castle Drive, including the ballfields and tennis courts, remain open and accessible. The City has made several recent investments in Bradfield Park, including improvements to ballfield fencing, shade structures, concessions and public restrooms. OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2026
5
NEIGHBORHOODS & DEVELOPMENT
Nominate Garland’s Neighborhood Standouts You see them making a difference. Now it’s time to make sure others do, too. Nominations are open for the 2026 Garland Neighborhood Awards. Nominate the neighbors, neighborhood groups, newsletters and City employees who are going above and beyond to make Garland a more connected, vibrant and welcoming community. A Garland Neighborhood Award could just be the beginning. The Office of Neighborhood Vitality nominates its local winners for national recognition through Neighborhoods, USA. Garland honorees have gone on to earn top honors on the national stage.
Help Us Celebrate the Best of Garland Neighborhoods Submit your nominations for: y Neighborhood of the Year y Neighborhood Newsletter Competition y Who's Who in Garland Neighborhoods y Public Servant Award Nominations are due by 10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 18. Maybe it’s the neighbor who always steps up. The neighborhood that turned a great idea into something everyone can enjoy. The newsletter that keeps everyone connected. Or the City employee who went the extra mile for you. If someone just came to mind, nominate them!
Submit nominations online at GarlandNeighborhoods.org. Winners will be announced at the 2026 Garland Neighborhood Awards on Nov. 12.
Save Your Seat for the 2026 Garland Neighborhood Awards 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12 The Atrium, 300 N. Fifth St. Recognize the many people making a difference across Garland and see who takes home this year’s Garland Neighborhood Awards. Bring a neighbor, make a connection and enjoy the evening. You don’t have to be a nominee, an award winner or even part of a neighborhood group to join us. If you call Garland home, you’re invited.
Join neighbors from across the city at the 2026 Garland Neighborhood Awards as we celebrate the people, places and connections that make Garland neighborhoods special. Whether you’re a longtime neighborhood leader, new to Garland or simply someone who loves your community, there’s a seat for you at the celebration.
Admission is free, but space is limited. RSVP to save your seat. Scan the QR code to RSVP. Find more details at GarlandNeighborhoods.org.
Explore City Machinery at the Trucks, Tools & Tech Showcase! Join the City of Garland from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 7, at 300 N. Fifth St. for Trucks, Tools & Tech: Garland Equipment Showcase! This free, family-friendly event gives residents an up-close look at massive municipal fleet vehicles. See equipment and technology demonstrations throughout the morning. Attendees of all ages can explore interactive displays and discover the essential daily operations that keep our community safe, clean and running smoothly. Come meet your dedicated City teams and experience the incredible machinery behind Garland's public services! 6
GARLAND CITY PRESS
Taking It to the Streets Street.GarlandTX.gov
Projects scheduled to begin in October/November STREET RECONSTRUCTION Remove and rebuild failed streets including new curbs, sidewalks and driveway approaches 1
11th Street, Avenue B to Avenue D
2
Quintana Drive, O’Banion Road to Willowhaven Circle
3
Sugarberry Lane, Jupiter Road to Excalibur Drive
4
Westway Avenue, Ridgecrest Drive to Ce Ora Drive
STREET REHABILITATION Concrete pavement rehabilitation and asphalt overlays 5
Caldwell Drive, Waldorf Drive to Manchester Drive
6
Dartmouth Street, Centerville Road to end of street
7
Daventry Drive, Castleford Lane to Glenbrook Drive
8
Duke Street, Columbia Boulevard to Dartmouth Street
9
Green Oaks Drive, Westpark Drive to Brand Road
10 Hemlock Drive, Waldorf Drive to Roanoke Drive 11
Kingswood Drive, Ridgegate Drive to Bellwood Drive
12 Lakeside Drive, Brookside Drive to Garwood Street 13 Roanoke Drive, Greensboro Circle to Charleston Drive 14 Willowood Drive, Ridgegate Drive to Bellwood Drive ALLEY REHABILITATION 15 Baccarat Drive alley, connecting to Baccarat Drive 16 Birchwood Drive/Wildbriar Drive, Heather Glen Drive to Shadyglen Drive 17 Brookfield Drive/Glenbrook Meadows Drive, Kingsbridge Drive to Brookfield Drive 18 Brookview Drive, Wildbriar Drive to Northwest Highway 19 David Drive, David Drive to Buena Vista Avenue
New Projects
20 Drexel Drive/Valley Mills Drive, Grinnell Drive to Oates Road
Ongoing Projects
21 Flagstone Drive/High Plateau Drive, Galaxie Road to Glen Forest Drive 22 Guildford Street, Pembroke Street to Longridge Drive 23 Lexington Drive/Mayfield Avenue, Charleston Drive to Saturn Road
Ongoing projects STREET RECONSTRUCTION
STREET REHABILITATION
31 Emberwood Drive,
35 Clear Point Drive,
Guthrie Road to Field Knoll Drive
32 Jackson Drive, Mayfield Avenue to Lexington Drive
33 Miller Park South, Miller Park North to International Road
34 Sylvan Drive, Maple Drive to Dent Street
Jackson Drive to Mayfield Avenue
36 George Brown Drive, Lyons Road to Bobtown Road
37 Garvon Street, Commercial Street to State Street
38 Guildford Street, Sam Houston Drive to Old North Road
39 Wakefield Drive, Glenbrook Drive to Buckingham Road
40 Wills Drive, Bobtown Road to Diana Drive ALLEY REHABILITATION
41 Buena Vista Avenue, Knob Hill Drive to Portola Drive
42 Oakglen Drive, Orchard Trail to Oakglen Drive alley
24 North Garland Avenue/Ridgemeade Drive, Ridgemeade Drive to Guildford Street alley 25 Purdue Drive, Hanover Drive to Cornell Drive/Windsor Drive alley 26 Random Circle, Apache Drive to Mayflower Drive 27 Rolling Oak Lane/Windy Ridge Lane, Oak Springs Drive to Grand Oak Drive 28 Saddleback Road, 4674 Robin Road to Canyon Drive 29 Seminary Ridge, Merrimac Trail to Club Country Drive alley 30 Trinidad Lane/Whitney Drive, Castle Drive to Country Club Road
OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2026
7
CITY SERVICES
FLUIDS LEAKING from vehicles can cause water pollution.
Save the Date: 10th Annual Tri-City Litter Cleanup When it rains these fluids flow down the storm drains and are carried to our local creeks and lakes. Here is how you can help: • Maintain vehicles to reduce leaks • Clean up spills with absorbent material y• Maintain vehicles to garage reduce floors leaks and Avoid hosing down driveways; instead regularly y Clean up spills withsweep absorbent material • Use a commercial car wash facility y• Avoid hosing down garage floors and driveways; instead sweep regularly fluid, oil filters and vehicle batteries at the following location:car wash facility y Use a commercial
Here is how you can help:
y Drop motor oil, transmission Cityoff of used Garland Recycling Center fluid, oil 1426 filtersCommerce and vehicle batteries at Street the following location: Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
City of Garland Drop-off service is free to Garland residents. Recycling Center To report illicit discharge: Commerce St. Health 1426 Department 972-205-3450 Stormwater Hotline 972-205-2180 Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Drop-off service is free to Garland residents.
To report illicit discharge: Health Department 972-205-3450 Stormwater Hotline 972-205-2180
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GARLAND CITY PRESS
A Decade of Keeping It Beautiful
Composting 101 Workshop 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 24
8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 10 Join volunteers from Garland, Dallas and Rowlett for the 10th annual Tri-City Litter Cleanup. This regional volunteer effort helps remove litter from Lake Ray Hubbard and its connecting tributaries, protecting local waterways and preserving the beauty of our shared environment.
Learn the art of composting and turn your kitchen scraps or yard waste into a nutrient-rich addition for your garden.
Volunteers can choose a cleanup location in Garland, Dallas or Rowlett. Tools and supplies are provided. Following the cleanup, participants are invited to enjoy free food and family-friendly activities.
Space is limited to 40 participants, so register now!
For more information, call 972-205-3583 or email Volunteer@GarlandTX.gov.
Open to middle school students through adults (17 and under must be with an adult).
Visit GarlandSanitation.com/ 3819/Composting for more details and to sign up.
Big 4 Recycle Collection Returns Nov. 14 Garland residents are invited to the Big 4 Recycle collection from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 14, at Dallas College Garland Center, 675 W. Walnut St. The event date for the community partnership between Garland Sanitation, Dallas College, eRecycler and World Wear Project was selected to coincide with America/Texas Recycles Day (Nov. 15), highlighting our community’s commitment to responsible recycling. Residents can bring a variety of items for recycling — including electronics, clothing and textiles — and other materials accepted by event partners. Your participation supports local sustainability efforts and helps ensure valuable resources are recovered and reused. For more information, visit GarlandSanitation.com.
Lead Service Line Inventory Update Garland Water Utilities has completed the initial phase of its Lead Service Line Inventory (LSLI), a year ahead of the 2027 deadline. This marks an important milestone in the City’s ongoing efforts to provide safe, reliable drinking water. The inventory was developed in response to updated requirements from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) designed to further protect communities from potential lead exposure in drinking water. The City began developing its inventory in 2022 to identify the materials used in both City-owned (public) and customer-owned (private) service lines throughout Garland’s water distribution system. Using field-verified service line data and statistical analysis, Garland Water Utilities completed the initial inventory of service line materials throughout the system. Most importantly, no lead service lines were identified in Garland’s water distribution system. Protecting public health and providing safe, reliable drinking water remain top priorities for Garland Water Utilities. Since lead and copper monitoring began in 1991, Garland has remained in compliance with state and federal lead requirements. The City also conducts routine water quality monitoring throughout the distribution system and lead and copper sampling at selected customer locations. Residents can view the full Service Line Inventory at GarlandWater.com to look up service line materials by address and learn more about the City’s Lead and Copper Program. For information about reducing lead exposure around your home or building and the health effects of lead, visit EPA.gov/lead or contact your healthcare provider. For questions about Garland’s Lead Service Line Inventory, call Garland Water Utilities at 972-205-3210 or visit GarlandWater.com.
Recolección de Grasa de Festividades Don’t pour your leftover cooking grease down the drain! Recycle it for FREE instead. Find your closest drop-off location at DefendYourDrainsNorthTexas.com. ¡No tire los desechos de la grasa de cocina por el desagüe! Recíclela GRATIS. Encuentre le sitio de entrega más cercano en DefendYourDrainsNorthTexas.com.
Stay Safe Around Electricity Electricity makes our lives easier in many ways, but it can also be dangerous. Always be cautious around electricity. Outdoor Electrical Safety: y Never go near a downed power line. Call Garland Power & Light (972-205-3000 or 833-403-2106) or the police (911) to report a downed line. y Substations and pad-mounted transformers contain high voltages of electricity. Don’t climb or play around either. Indoor Electrical Safety: y Don’t run electrical cords under rugs or furniture. y Immediately disconnect an appliance if it blows a fuse, emits smoke or sparks. Discard the appliance or repair it before using it again. y Disconnect appliances by pulling on the plug, not the cord. y Don’t use an electrical appliance if the ground is wet, damp or near water. Visit gpltexas.org/safety for more electrical safety tips.
Save Energy and Money While Keeping Your Home Warm A home with inadequate attic insulation can lose up to 60% of its heat in the winter. Heat can also be lost through leaks in ducts, windows and doors. Reduce heat loss by participating in Garland Power & Light’s EnergySaver Wholehouse Weatherization Program. You can earn bill credits for qualifying energy-efficiency upgrades and save money on your utility bill for years to come! Included in the Wholehouse Weatherization Program are bill credits for: y Ceiling insulation (must be at least R-30) y Energy Star® windows and doors y Duct replacement or sealing
Nov. 1 - Jan. 31 1 de noviembre - 31 de enero
y Weather-stripping doors, caulking windows and sealing plumbing penetrations
Garland Recycling Drop-Off Center, 1426 Commerce St.
For complete program requirements and applications, visit gpltexas.org/energysaver. If you have questions, email energyadvisor@gpltexas.org or call 972-205-2929.
Collection Hours | Horario de recolección Monday to Friday lunes a viernes 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday sábado 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
GarlandWater.com
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QUALITY OF LIFE
Rec Center Events Racecar Engineering Workshop
9 a.m. to noon Monday, Oct. 12 Ages 5-12, $45 per person Learn about transmissions, friction and other key concepts that make a racecar go. Then build and customize your vehicle with LEGO® to make it the best that it can be. Audubon Recreation Center 342 W. Oates Road 972-205-3991 | ARC@GarlandTX.gov
Ballet & Tap
6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 8-29 Ages 2-4, $85 per month In this fun, beginner ballet and tap class, little dancers will discover the magic of movement! Fields Recreation Center 1701 Dairy Road 972-205-3090 | FRC@GarlandTX.gov
Fall Brawl Dodgeball Tournament
Saturday, Nov. 14 $140 per team Teams of seven take the court with quick throws and nonstop action. Rally your friends, bring your strategy and dominate the court! Granger Recreation Center 1310 W. Avenue F 972-205-2771 | GRC@GarlandTX.gov
Camp FIRE Fall Break
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, Oct. 12-16 Ages 8-13, $130 per week Each day is filled with high-energy games, creative challenges and hands-on activities designed to keep campers moving, thinking and exploring. Holford Recreation Center 2314 Homestead Place 972-205-2772 | HRC@GarlandTX.gov
Kundalini Yoga
7:15 to 8:45 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 6-27 Ages 18 and up, $48 per month Flow through dynamic sequences designed to harmonize strength and flexibility, cultivating inner peace and renewed vitality. Hollabaugh Recreation Center 3925 W. Walnut St. 972-205-2721 | HHRC@GarlandTX.gov
Recreation Financial Assistance Program The City of Garland Recreation Financial Assistance Program helps Garland residents with limited financial resources participate in eligible recreation programs by providing qualified applicants with a 60% discount on regularly priced classes, subject to income eligibility and available funding.
Assistance may be used for programs such as instructional, swimming, fitness, preschool and camp classes, but does not cover pool admissions, concessions, already-discounted programs or passes, extended trips or facility rentals. Applicants must be Garland residents. Apply at a Garland recreation center in person and provide documentation verifying residency, identity, household income, and parent or legal guardian status, including birth certificates for children under 18. Funds are limited.
Visit GarlandParks.com or scan the QR code for more information and to register.
10 GARLAND CITY PRESS
Seniors in the Know From the Garland Senior Citizens Advisory Commission Seek Healthy Resources at the 2026 Community Health & Resource Fair 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 8 The Atrium at the Granville Arts Center 300 N. Fifth St. in Downtown Garland
Seniors 55+ will receive useful information and have opportunities to: y Join in activities (prizes will be given) y Receive health screenings y Obtain wellness education y Find preventive care resources and safety tips y Visit with a wide variety of vendors serving the senior community Vendors will share the latest information and exhibits on topics such as senior housing, mobility devices, vision and hearing support, nutrition and geriatric care. Several members of the Garland Senior Citizens Advisory Commission will hear residents’ opinions about the city’s needs for seniors. Sponsored by the Garland Senior Activity Center and the Carver Senior Center, the event is both fun and informative, with vendor giveaways and door prizes. JOIN THE FAIR FOR LEARNING AND RECREATION! For more information, call 972-205-2769.
YOUR OPINION MATTERS, especially to the City of Garland Senior Citizens Advisory Commission! This column is a wonderful way for the Commission to share information about the City and services for seniors, but we need your ideas to make Garland the best possible town for seniors and all residents. Your feedback, perspectives and viewpoints will inform the Commission and the City to allow for better understanding and informed decisions. You can influence outcomes and help create a senior culture within the broader City of Garland. So share all ideas for the city, not just items of interest to seniors, although those ideas are welcome too. Here are two quick response (QR) codes that can help in the exchange of information and opinions. Join the email list by scanning the first QR code. You will receive senior updates about resources, fun activities and helpful programs. Scan this QR code to tell us your interests and suggestions for citywide improvements, as well as the kind of programs and activities you would like to see in a city with a senior culture.
Did you know?
Garland had a volunteer Fire Department for more than 60 years! To learn more about the Garland Fire Department’s long history, visit our newest exhibit, Get Fired Up, at the Garland Landmark Museum, 393 N. Sixth St. The Garland Landmark Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
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Events from the Arts “Beetlejuice Jr.”
7 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, Oct. 7-8 It’s our show now, kid. The ghost-with-themost comes to the stage in the frightfully funny musical based on the beloved motion picture turned Broadway phenomenon. Presented by Breitling Performing Arts. Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
“Anything Goes”
7:30 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 9, 16 and 23, and Saturday Oct. 10 2:30 p.m. Sundays, Oct. 11, 18 and 25 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 A 1930s musical comedy by Cole Porter set aboard an ocean liner traveling from New York to London. Mistaken identities, disguises and madcap antics as nightclub singer Reno Sweeney and gangsters help Billy Crocker win Hope Harcourt, who is engaged to a wealthy nobleman. Presented by Garland Civic Theatre. Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
All Gershwin Concert, Simone Sala, piano
7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16 Join us for an evening of music by America’s greatest composer of the 1920’s, George Gershwin. This concert culminates with Gershwin’s "Piano Concerto in F Major" performed by Italian virtuoso pianist, Simone Sala. Presented by Garland Symphony Orchestra. Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
“The Days that Made America Tour” with Lindsay Graham 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23
Graham, the podcast creator and public historian, combines elements of “American History Tellers,” “American Scandal” and “History Daily” podcasts in a live theatrical event to tell the story of six critical moments in American history that made our country what it is today — for better or worse. Presented by Garland Cultural Arts. Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
“Rocky Horror Picture Show” 8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30
Let’s do the time warp AGAIN. Join Los Bastardos shadow cast for a special onenight-only screening of the 1975 cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Presented by Los Bastardos. Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
Copland, "El Salón México" Iona Batchelder, cello
7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20 GSO's second concert of the season kicks off with Aaron Copland’s "El Salón México." This work is followed by the impressive American cello virtuoso, Iona Batchelder, performing Dvořák’s "Cello Concerto." Presented by Garland Symphony Orchestra. Granville Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St.
“Rocky”
8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20
Come in the ring with us for a special 50th anniversary screening of the iconic Oscarwinning classic that inspired generations. A small-time Philadelphia boxer gets a chance to fight the world heavyweight champion in a bout in which he strives to go the distance for his self-respect. Presented by Garland Cultural Arts. Plaza Theatre, 521 W. State St.
Visit GarlandArts.com or scan the QR code to buy tickets to these shows and more.
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GARLAND CITY PRESS
Presented by
FERV EENET
2-8 p.m. | Saturday, Oct. 24 Downtown Garland Sponsored by
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Get Your Child School-Ready with Library Events Composting Basics Smart Start Garland Set your preschooler ages 4-5 on the path to school success with Smart Start Garland, which will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Mondays, Oct. 12 through Nov. 16, at the Central Library, 625 Austin St. in Downtown Garland. Smart Start Garland is a six-week school readiness program that introduces children to the fundamental skills and behaviors that will help them thrive in a learning environment. The program also provides support and resources to the families fostering those skills at home. Children enrolled in Smart Start Garland will be introduced to literacy skills, such as letter and number recognition, while also learning behavioral skills like focus, self-control and communication. By participating in these lessons as a group, kids will also be able to socialize with their peers and begin to make friends. Each session will incorporate a hands-on activity that will strengthen motor and literacy skills. Lesson topics: y Body and spatial awareness
y Functioning in a group
y Communication
y Letter and number recognition, print awareness
y Focus and self-control
Registration is required. Families must register for the full six weeks, so please be aware of the time commitment. Registration begins Sept. 28 at Library.GarlandTX.gov or at 972-205-2501.
2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 West Garland Library
Adults, are you curious about composting but not sure where to start? Join us for a beginner-friendly introduction to turning everyday food scraps into nutrient-rich soil. You’ll learn simple, practical tips you can use at home, no backyard required!
Free Medicare Education Class 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 North Garland Library
Get clear, reliable guidance on Medicare in this informative one-hour session led by Benefit Advisor Anishalin Helms. Learn the essentials — from understanding Medicare and its parts to knowing when and how to enroll. The class also covers plan options, prescription drug coverage, eligibility for extra help and key considerations if you’re still working or have a spouse not on Medicare.
Community First: Safe, Welcoming Neighborhoods with Garland Code Compliance 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15 West Garland Library
Join us for an informative and engaging program with the Garland Code Compliance Department. Discover easy ways to boost your home's curb appeal, gain practical home and landscaping tips, and learn how to avoid common code violations. Together, we can create a more beautiful and vibrant community.
Family Place Playgroup
1 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 15 - Nov. 12 South Garland Library
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Central Library 625 Austin St. 972-205-2500
South Garland Library 4845 Broadway Blvd. 972-205-3933
North Garland Library 3845 N. Garland Ave. 972-205-2804
West Garland Library 3921 W. Walnut St. 972-205-2586
GARLAND CITY PRESS
@GarlandLibraryTX @Garland.Library.TX Library.GarlandTX.gov
Each week, this group for ages 0-5 and their families welcomes a professional who specializes in early childhood development, covering topics like nutrition and speech. Families will learn from their expertise and ask questions about their child’s development, as everyone enjoys a special playtime featuring toys, books and exploratory activities. Registration is required and families are expected to attend all five weeks of playtime.
"Buried Dallas-Fort Worth: A Photographic Journey Through North Texas Cemeteries" 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 Central Library
Join local author and speaker Tui Snider for a captivating photographic slideshow presentation inspired by her new book, “Buried Dallas-Fort Worth: A Photographic Journey Through North Texas Cemeteries.” Through striking images and fascinating stories, Snider will explore the history, legends and hidden stories found in North Texas cemeteries.
Fun Fright Fiesta
10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 31 Central Library Join us for a fun and spooky family event. There will be games, treats and a piñata with prizes! Piñata breaking will be held at 11 a.m. Costumes encouraged!
Divertida Fiesta de Sustos
10 to 11:30 a.m. sábado, 31 de octubre Biblioteca Central Acompáñenos para un evento familiar divertido y terrorífico en la Biblioteca Central. ¡Habrá juegos, dulces y una piñata con premios! Vamos a quebrar la piñata a las 11 a.m. ¡Disfraces son bienvenidos!
Spring Creek Forest and Park Preserve is a 230-acre old-growth forest and native prairie that runs along Spring Creek in far north Garland. It has both natural and concrete trails, towering trees and unusual wildflowers. The Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest is an all-volunteer group dedicated to protecting and maintaining the forest and prairie preserve. No motorized vehicles, bicycles or horses are allowed on the natural dirt trails because they cause extensive damage to this biologically sensitive area. To visit the Preserve, choose from three main entrances: y 1770 Holford Road has both natural and concrete trails that lead you through some of the oldest and tallest trees in Dallas County. y 1787 Holford Road features picnic tables overlooking a fine limestone prairie with a host of wildflowers. Natural trails only. A wildscape garden and a self-guided interpretive trail will help you learn more about the ecology of the park. y 4695 Ranger Drive at Halff Park has a concrete trail skirting the north edge and natural trails leading into the forest. Due to construction, the dirt trails that lead into the forest may be closed.
Speaker Series
Via Zoom, link at SpringCreekForest.org. 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6 Mia Whitham will discuss Dallas County Open Spaces' Role in Local Conservation 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3 Ben Pfeiffer will discuss Enchanting Fireflies Light up your Life
Work Sessions
QUALITY OF LIFE
9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 10 1787 Holford Road 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14 1770 Holford Road Teams led by a knowledgeable volunteer clear trails, take out invasive plants or pick up trash in the Preserve. For last-minute updates, especially if the weather is questionable, check our website or Facebook page. Closed-toed shoes are mandatory. Heavy work gloves, long pants and protective eyewear are recommended for your protection from poison ivy and thorns. Bring water and insect repellent. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; no drop-off/pickup of those under 18.
Fourth Sunday Walks
2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25 Taylor Quedensley leads a tour to identify lichen in the forest 1770 Holford Road 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22 Tom Frey leads a tour to discuss our Preserve changes through the years 1770 Holford Road
Bird Walks
8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, and Sunday, Nov. 29 Reba Collins leads the tours, reservations required to rcollins20@verizon.net 1787 Holford Road For more information and updates on events, visit SpringCreekForest.org and the Facebook group page. If you would like to receive the monthly Event Announcements, send your email to springcreekforestpreservation@gmail.com.
Tree Power Free Tree Giveaway Want to grow shade to save energy, replant canopy and beautify the community? Plant a free tree! Trees are available to Garland residents as part of the Tree Power Free Tree program sponsored by Garland Power & Light and Garland Parks & Recreation. Registration: 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, until out of stock Tree Pickup: Saturday, Nov. 7 (time window and location on registration confirmation) One free tree per household. More information at bit.ly/GarlandFreeTree. 2026 Tree Varieties: y American Elm y Chinquapin Oak y Mexican White Oak y Shumard Red Oak A confirmation email, including pickup time window and location, will be sent to you after successful registration. On pickup day, bring the email with you. Call 972-205-3583 for more information.
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VoteGarland.com
Oct. 5 Last day to register to vote Oct. 19 Early voting begins Oct. 23 Last day to apply for a mail-in ballot Oct. 30 Early voting ends Nov. 3 Election Day See page 2 to learn more about the proposition, what voters are deciding and what the potential impact would be if voters approve or do not approve the election.
Registration is required.
Garland City Press is an award-winning production produced and funded by the City of Garland. It contains information about the City, as well as details on City-sponsored events. Send comments or questions to: Ray Leszcynski, PI@GarlandTX.gov, City of Garland, P.O. Box 469002, Garland, TX 75046-9002.
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