Table of Contents
COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
Your gateway to discovering everything you need to know
DOWNTOWN TEMPLE
Unveiling the vibrant heart of our city
PARKS & RECREATION
Discover fun and adventure in Temple!
TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Exploring the treasures of the public library
Protecting and serving our community PUBLIC
Learn
Desk of the City Manager
The City Manager’s Office oversees the daily operations of the City of Temple and carries out the goals and policies set by the City Council. The office coordinates City departments, manages the budget process, and helps guide planning for the City’s future.
New Summer Event in Downtown Temple
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improved Santa Fe Summer Music Series on Friday, June 5. This revamped music series will bring energy and entertainment to Santa Fe Plaza throughout June and July, creating a welcoming gathering place in the heart of Temple.
Each week will feature a new musical lineup, a variety of local food trucks and a vibrant downtown atmosphere for all to enjoy. The first concert will showcase Texas Double Shot, a San Antonio-based country band known for its fiddle solos and twangy guitar leads. Local vendors will also be on-site serving food and drinks throughout the evening. I encourage you and your family to join us as it promises to be a great night of music, food and connection.
As we transition into the warmest months of the year, I also want to remind everyone to remain mindful of rising temperatures. Please take necessary precautions when spending time outdoors, including staying hydrated, seeking shade when possible and limiting prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, as temperatures can escalate quickly and pose life-threatening risks.
Additionally, stay aware of signs of heat-related illness in yourself and others. If you encounter someone who appears to be in distress, call emergency services immediately.
By staying aware and proactive, we can help prevent heat-related emergencies and support the well-being of our community. When proper prevention steps are taken, we can all enjoy our community events to their fullest. Thank you for doing your part to keep Temple safe and healthy.
Brynn Myers
Development Updates
Exciting changes are happening in the City of Temple! New development projects are helping to shape the future of our community by bringing new opportunities and energy to the city. These projects will enhance the area while building on Temple’s rich history and creating a place residents are proud to call home.
Improvements to Ferguson Park Expected to Wrap Up this Month
Construction is underway at Ferguson Park, located at 1203 East Adams Avenue The park’s improvements will include a new playground for all ages, accessible sidewalks, shaded play areas and a ninja-style fitness feature designed to encourage active play. The iconic rocket feature will remain a part of the park, preserving a piece of Ferguson Park’s history and community connection.
The total investment for these improvements includes approximately $725,000 for the playground and $200,000 for the shade structures.
The construction is projected to wrap up this month, and we appreciate the community's patience as crews work to create an even more welcoming space for residents to gather, play and stay active
To learn more, watch our latest Let’s Talk Temple video!
City Council May Highlights
Big things are happening in Temple as City Council continues to shape the future of our community. From key infrastructure projects to longterm planning initiatives, this section highlights important actions that impact residents and support a thriving, resilient city. Stay informed on how your local leaders are working to move Temple forward.
To learn more about council meetings, upcoming agendas, and City Council members, visit templetx.gov/citycouncil.
Roads & Infrastructure
Continued work on the Georgetown Railroad Hike & Bike Trail project was approved. Council also approved a pedestrian bridge partnership project with Temple College over Veterans Memorial Boulevard to improve connectivity and accessibility. Construction contracts were authorized for runway navigational aid improvements at Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport and FY26 Manhole Replacement projects.
Parks and Community Spaces
Council approved development of a comprehensive Parks, Recreation, Trails, and Open Spaces Master Plan to help guide future community investments. Council also authorized construction of a restroom and storage facility at Crossroads Park along Pepper Creek Trail and approved continued renovations at the Historic Post Office and Summit Recreation Facility.
Utilities
Council approved strategic energy management services for the City’s water treatment plants and adopted the Landfill Master Plan to support longterm operational planning and sustainability efforts.
Recognitions
Temple Police Chief Coy Brown and newly elected officials took an Oath of Office. Council recognized the 2026 Little Sprouts Program graduates, National Police Week and Water Safety Month. Council also received recognition from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for the Temple Water Treatment Plant’s successful participation in the Texas Optimization Program.
Community Happenings
Our community plays an important role in making Temple a great place to live, work, and grow. Through volunteering, supporting local businesses, and participating in community events and initiatives, residents help strengthen connections and contribute to the city’s continued success.
JUNE
of July Fun Fest & Fireworks Show
Saturday, July 4 at 6 p.m. Crossroads Park
The City of Temple will host the 28th Annual H-E-B 4th of July Fun Fest & Fireworks Show on Saturday, July 4, at Crossroads Park.
The evening will feature food and beverage vendors, live entertainment and a fireworks finale. Gates will open at 6 p.m., the opening ceremony starts at 6:45 p.m., Groove Knight will take the stage at 7 p.m. and the H-E-B Fireworks Display will begin at 9:30 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, picnic baskets and lawn chairs to enjoy the festivities. For our guests’ safety, please do not bring pets to the event.
For more details, visit templetxevents.com.
Downtown Temple
Downtown Temple is a evolving gathering place that brings the community together. With local restaurants, unique shops, and events held throughout the year, it offers residents and visitors a variety of ways to connect, celebrate, and enjoy all that Temple has to offer.
First Friday June 5
Trackside Cinema
Santa Fe Plaza | 301 W Ave A
Night at the Museum June 11
Trackside Cinema is back and this time, things are getting a little wild after dark. Join us Thursday, June 11 at the Santa Fe Plaza in Downtown Temple for a free screening of Night at the Museum. Lay out your blanket, pull up a lawn chair and enjoy a night under the stars with the whole family.
The Lego Movie June 25
Everything is awesome. Join us Thursday, June 25, at the Santa Fe Plaza in Downtown Temple for a screening of The Lego Movie. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, hit up the food trucks and settle in for a night that's fun for every age and yes, that song will be stuck in your head all night. Food trucks will be on-site at both screenings, fun kicks off at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at dusk. Best of all? It's completely free. Downtown is where the summer just keeps getting better.
For more information, check out the Trackside Cinema page!
Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum
Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum is a Blue
Star Museum
May 16–September 7, 2026
The museum is proud to be part of Blue Star Museums, a national appreciation program to thank our military families for their service and share with them America’s cultural treasures
Active military personnel and their families can visit the museum free of charge from May 16 (Armed Forces Day) through September 7 (Labor Day).
For more information visit templerrhm.org.
Vaquero: Genesis of the Texas Cowboy
March 20–July 10, 2026
Explore the deep roots of cowboy culture through photographs by distinguished Texas photographer and writer Bill Wittliff. The exhibition highlights the enduring traditions of vaqueros Mexican horsemen whose skills, tools, and working methods shaped ranching life in Texas and the American West. Through documentary-style images and bilingual interpretation, visitors gain insight into daily ranch work, horsemanship, and the cultural exchange that gave rise to an enduring symbol of the region.
For more information visit templerrhm.org.
Parks & Recreation
Parks and Recreation plays an important role in building a strong community by providing parks, facilities, and programs for residents of all ages. Through recreational opportunities, community events, sports leagues, and activities, they create spaces for people to stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the outdoors.
Swim Lessons
Temple Parks & Recreation is offering Summer swim lessons for swimmers of all ages and skill levels
Whether your child is just getting started in the water or building on existing skills, our certified instructors focus on safety, confidence and steady progress in a supportive and encouraging environment
Swim lessons are a great way to help kids stay active, learn an important life skill and enjoy time in the water this summer.
To learn more and register, visit templeparks.com/swimlessons.
Free Pickleball Clinic
Temple Parks & Recreation is offering pickleball programming at The Summit, led by Pickleball Pro George Olivencia.
Join our Free Pickleball Clinic and get a fun introduction to the game or brush up on your skills. The clinic includes an overview of rules and scoring, basic skills like serving, volleying, and dinking, plus helpful tips on positioning and strategy.
All ages and skill levels are welcome.
Learn more about pickleball offerings at templeparks.com/pickleball.
City of Temple
Parent’s Night Out: June 26
Parents’ Night Out is coming up on June 26 at Wilson Park Recreation Center. Enjoy an evening out while your children take part in a safe, fun-filled night of activities. Kids will enjoy games, arts and crafts, dinner and tournaments, all under supervised care.
The program is open to children ages 612, runs from 5 to 8:30 p m and costs $16 per participant. Space is limited.
Register at templeparks.com/pno.
Last Call: Summer League Registration
Last call to register for Summer League kickball and softball is here. If you’ve been thinking about joining a team, now’s the time to sign up before the deadline.
It’s a great way to stay active this summer, have some fun, and get out on the field with friends and teammates.
Registration closes June 12. Sign up at templeparks.com/athletics.
Lions Junction is Open for Summer Register for Summer Camp
Lions Junction Family Water Park is back for the 2026 season in Temple!
Beat the heat and enjoy a full day of fun at this local favorite, featuring slides, a lazy river, a kids’ play area and more. It’s a great spot for families to cool off, relax and make summer memories together.
Lions Junction is open for the season, with daily hours available throughout the summer.
To learn more, visit lionsjunction.com.
Temple Parks & Recreation Summer Camps are a great way for kids to stay active, try new activities, and make new friends all summer long.
With a variety of camp options, there’s something for every interest and age group. Each camp is designed to keep kids engaged, learning, and having fun in a safe environment.
Learn more and register at templeparks.com/camps.
City of Temple
Temple Recognized as a 2025 Tree City USA for the 20 Year th
The City of Temple has been recognized as a 2025 Tree City USA, an honor named by the Arbor Day Foundation. This is the City’s 20 consecutive year to receive this recognition. th
“Being recognized as a Tree City USA for the 20th consecutive year is a significant milestone for the City of Temple, and is a testament to the city’s continued commitment to maintaining and growing our urban forest,” Lee Bullock, Parks Division Director, said. “Trees provide so many benefits for our community, including reducing stormwater runoff, erosion prevention, better air quality and enhanced property values.”
After the historic tornado in 2024, our Parks team recognized the need to replant City greenery. Trees for Houston reached out to the City, worked with Parks to outline the planting and recently planted 55 trees along the Wyndham Hills walking trail.
“After we lost several hundred trees in our park system from the tornado, we were appreciative of Trees for Houston’s efforts on this project to help restore some of our lost urban canopy and enhance the walking trail at Wyndham Hills,” Bullock said.
We’re thankful for the Parks team and their dedication to making the City of Temple a greener, healthier place to live.
Public Safety
Our police and fire departments play a vital role in keeping the community safe. Through emergency response, public safety services, community outreach, and education efforts, first responders help protect residents, provide assistance during emergencies, and promote a strong sense of safety and security throughout Temple.
templetx.gov/police | templetx.gov/fire
Kiddo Cards
Saturday, June 27 at 10 a.m.
First United Bank
Stop by First United Bank, located at 7286 W Adams Ave., on Saturday, June 27, for a free Kiddo Card!
The Temple Police Department will be on-site creating emergency ID cards for kids ages 2–15. Each card includes a photo, physical description, thumbprint and emergency contact info, helping first responders reunite families faster in an emergency.
Temple Public Library
The public library is a place for learning, discovery, and community connection. Beyond books, the library provides valuable resources, programs, and opportunities that support education, personal growth, and community engagement. Join us at the Temple Public Library as we bring people together and inspire lifelong learning.
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Summer Reading Kickoff
Unearth a Story
Travel back in time with us on Saturday, June 6, from 9 – 11 a.m. for a prehistoric party at the Temple Public Library.
Bring the whole family out for a morning of hands-on fun, creativity and discovery for curious kids and their grown-ups. Enjoy a Fossil Dig Adventure Show by Bestie Wonderland, bounce houses, tasty treats from the Dig Café and a Community Geodes Art Project. Several special guests will also be joining the fun, including the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, bringing a ride-on train for kids.
While you’re there, kick off your Summer Reading Adventure by signing up for the Summer Reading Challenge and earn fun prizes all summer long.
Stop by and start your summer with a great book! learn more at exploretpl.com/summer.
Summer Meals Program
June 1–July 31
Library 3rd Floor | McLane Room
Breakfast 8:30–9:30 a.m. & Lunch 12–1 p.m.
In partnership with Temple ISD, the Temple Public Library will be open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday for children 0 – 18.
Parents may purchase plates to eat. Children do not need to be enrolled in TISD to participate
Learn more about the Summer Meals Program at exploretpl.com/summer.
Sue Young
June 17 at 10:30 a.m.
Third Floor | Ages 5+
Join a high-energy, bilingual celebration of the Lone Star State! Award-winning storyteller Sue Young brings Texas to life through catchy songs and vibrant tales in English and Spanish. Come ready to sing, laugh and clap along! Recommended for ages 5+.
Special Programs for Adults
Painting with Suzanna The Literary Garden
Join us on June 20 at 11 a m on the second floor for a creative painting session with Suzanna.
Participants will paint a vibrant Monstera plant set atop a stack of vintage books, making for a unique and relaxing artistic experience
This is a great opportunity to unwind, get creative and enjoy a guided art session in a welcoming environment.
Registration required at exploretpl.com/summer.
Meditation & Aromatherapy with Elise Lange
Join us on June 27 at 2 p.m. on the second floor for a calming, hands-on session with Elise.
Participants will explore simple meditation techniques along with ways to incorporate aromatherapy into daily life, all designed to support relaxation and a sense of ease.
This program offers a quiet space to unwind, reset, and learn practical tools you can take home and use anytime.
This event is part of the Library’s Summer Reading programming. For additional summer programming visit exploretpl.com/summer.
Public Works
Public Works plays an important role in maintaining and improving the services and infrastructure our community relies on every day. From roads and bridges to water systems and public spaces, their work helps support safety, accessibility, and a high quality of life for residents.
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Help Us Keep Storm Drains Clear
As spring and summer storms roll in, keeping storm drains clear is more important than ever
Stormwater runoff flows directly into our local waterways, and anything left in the streets like grass clippings, leaves, trash, or oil, can clog drains and pollute our water.
You can help by:
• Never dumping anything into a storm drain
• Cleaning up after your pets
• Reporting blocked or flooded drains
Let’s work together to reduce flooding and keep our stormwater systems flowing clean and clear.
Learn more at templetx.gov/stormwater.
HOLIDAY GARBAGE & RECYCLING
Collection Schedule
Juneteenth Collection Schedule
Garbage, recycling, and brush/bulk collections will run on a regular schedule on June 19, Juneteenth. Please have your items to the curb by 7 a.m. City offices will be closed on Friday, June 19, and will reopen Monday, June 22, at 8 a.m.
REMINDER
As delays may occur, we appreciate your patience. Crews are working hard to stay on schedule.
Help Prevent Illegal Dumping
We know some areas continue to face ongoing dumping and trash overflow challenges. Your reports are essential to helping us identify and resolve these issues quickly. Please report any illegal dumping to the City of Temple Code Compliance Office at 254-298-5000. Let’s keep Temple clean and safe together!
What Can You Recycle?
KEEP ITEMS LOOSE!
Remember, no plastic bags and no Styrofoam in your recycling bin. The following items are accepted in your recycling bin:
Aluminum and metal cans
Paperboard boxes (cereal, cookies, crackers, pizza boxes without liners or food)
Junk mail
Magazines
Corrugated cardboard boxes
Newspapers
Office paper
Telephone directories
Detergent boxes
Plastic beverage containers (empty)
Plastic soda bottles
Plastic water bottles
Milk jugs
Plastic detergent bottles (rinsed and clean)
DID YOU KNOW?
Recyclables collected in Temple are transported to the Balcones Recycling Facility in Taylor, Texas, where items are hand-sorted. Keeping items loose helps ensure more materials can be properly recycled
For more information on what is allowed in your recycling bin, visit templetx.gov/recycling.
BEHIND THE CITY WATER QUALITY
The Water Quality team is made up of five people: four employees and one supervisor. This small but mighty team helps keep Temple clean, safe and running efficiently by routinely checking our water systems. In this episode of Behind The City, Jordan Nelson, who serves as Water Operator III, shows how the City tests, monitors and maintains water quality throughout the city.
The Water Quality team takes about 100 samples each week, testing for:
Bacteria levels
Chemical balance
Overall water safety
Additional tests for lead and copper levels are conducted every three years.
Water is 100% safe when it leaves the water treatment plant, and the Water Quality team works hard to ensure water safety and consistency across the entire City.
Want to contact the City of Temple?
TTX Connect is designed to enhance communication and streamline service requests for residents. With a live chat feature, upgraded service request tool, call service, and a mobile app, getting assistance has never been easier!
Residents can chat with customer service agents Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., via ttxconnect.com, submit and track service requests, and access an interactive map of active issues. TTX Connect replaces Track Temple and offers improved tools for reporting concerns like missed garbage collection or broken traffic signals.
For phone assistance, dial 3-1-1 (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) or 254-298-5000 (other providers). Plus, download the TTX Connect app on the App Store or Google Play.
TEMPLE TALK: In Case You Missed It
Public Works Luncheon
In celebration of Public Works Week, the Public Works Department held its annual Public Works Week Luncheon on Wednesday, May 20. At the event, City Public Works employees were recognized for their hard work and dedication to our city.
The Public Works Department helps ensure our City is a safe and healthy place to live by maintaining and improving our City infrastructure every day. We’re thankful for their dedication to making Temple a place you love to call home!
