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SEPTEMBER 2026

TEMPLETX.GOV

CITY OF TEMPLE BRING YOUR KID TO WORK DAY 2026

TEMPLE - A PLACE YOU LOVE TO CALL HOME

Table of Contents 17 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

Your gateway to discovering everything you need to know

23 DOWNTOWN TEMPLE

Unveiling the vibrant heart of our city

27 PARKS & RECREATION

Discover fun and adventure in Temple

33 PUBLIC SAFETY:

FIRE AND POLICE Protecting and serving our community

39 TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Exploring the treasures of the public library

47 PUBLIC WORKS

Learn about City services and stay informed of the latest Public Works updates

FROM THE

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.

Data Center Development in Temple As our community continues discussing data center development, I want to acknowledge the concerns we’ve heard and provide clear information about the protections the City Council has established, the benefits these projects can provide and the City’s role in ensuring development occurs responsibly.

Transparency is important, and residents should have accurate information about both the opportunities and the safeguards in place. The City currently has data center projects in different stages of development. Each project is reviewed individually based on its location, size, design, infrastructure needs, and planned operations. Through that process, the City Council has focused on using the authority available to us locally to establish meaningful, enforceable protections related to land use, water, infrastructure, traffic, noise, drainage, development standards, and public safety. Annexation is an important part of those protections. Bringing these properties into the city limits ensures they are subject to City zoning, development standards, and other local requirements. Development and utility agreements provide additional protections specific to each project, including requirements related to infrastructure, water use, construction, traffic, and operations. These agreements allow the City to establish clear expectations up front and, importantly, give the City the ability to enforce those requirements over time. Water has understandably been one of the most significant concerns. Data centers currently under consideration in Temple are required to use closed-loop, dry cooling systems rather than traditional evaporative cooling. The City is also establishing project-specific limits and requirements through

utility agreements, including monitoring, metering, and enforcement provisions. These projects do not receive an unlimited entitlement to City water, and additional phases require additional City review and approval. Responsible economic development also means ensuring that our community receives a meaningful return from these projects. The projects currently under consideration represent significant private investment and new taxable value. At full buildout, estimated in FY 2031, Rowan's three proposed phases are conservatively projected to generate more than $40 million annually for the City of Temple, compared with approximately $14 million in annual tax abatements during the 10-year abatement period. The first phase is expected to be completed in 2029, with revenues growing as additional phases are completed and added to the tax roll. This is in addition to more than $30 million in proposed contributions from Rowan for public infrastructure, additional revenue to other taxing entities, and Rowan's commitment to hire and retain 120 full-time jobs across the three phases. Those infrastructure contributions are important because they extend beyond the individual development sites. Agreements under consideration include significant company-funded investments in water and wastewater infrastructure, roadway improvements, watersupply resiliency and other community priorities. This allows growth to help pay for the infrastructure it requires while also advancing projects that provide broader benefits to Temple residents. Even where the City uses economic development incentives, those incentives are structured around performance. Companies must make the required investment and meet their obligations to receive the associated benefits. The City continues receiving property tax revenue during applicable abatement periods, with that revenue increasing as abatements expire.

Adding substantial new taxable value helps diversify Temple’s tax base and provides additional resources to support services and infrastructure as our community grows. There are also protections outside the City’s authority. Electric-grid planning and interconnection are governed at the state level, and Texas has established additional review requirements for large electric loads, including data centers seeking to connect to the electric grid. That state review is in addition to, not a replacement for, the City’s local review. The state process addresses electric-grid impacts, while the City’s process addresses the issues within our authority and most directly affecting our community. As these projects move forward, there will continue to be public meetings, Council consideration, and opportunities for residents to provide feedback. We will also continue providing information about the projects, agreements, and upcoming actions so residents can understand what is being considered before decisions are made. The City Council has been deliberate about establishing protections before these projects move forward. Our goal is to ensure that development in Temple is accompanied by the infrastructure, protections, and community benefits necessary to support responsible growth. That commitment will continue to guide our decisions and keep Temple’s long-term interests at the forefront.

Brynn Myers 5

Data Center Development As conversations continue around data center development in Temple, we’ve created a dedicated Data Center Information Hub with answers to common questions, FAQs, and additional information to help keep the community informed. To visit the Hub, you can visit templetx.gov/datacenters.

Data Center Development Considerations Data center developments raise important questions about water, noise, traffic, infrastructure and impacts on our community. It is important to know what the City can control and what it can’t. Texas cities operate within authority established by state law. The City of Temple does not control ERCOT or statewide electric policy, Oncor's infrastructure planning, state tax exemptions and incentives, Texas' private-property rights, or development that may occur elsewhere in the region.

Why Annexation Matters When a development occurs outside of Temple's city limits, the City’s zoning, building permits and development standards do not apply, which means development could proceed with significantly fewer local controls. When property is annexed into the city limits, the City can apply its zoning and development standards and require utility agreements and other enforceable controls. Annexation gives Temple more control over how projects develop, not less. When properties come into our City limits we can use the local tools we have available to mitigate impacts, regulate development, and establish enforceable requirements. WATER PROTECTIONS & ENFORCEMENT Data centers accessing City water and wastewater services are required to enter into utility agreements to establish water-use limits, monitoring, and enforcement mechanisms. All data centers currently 6

under development or consideration are required to use a closed-loop cooling system. This means the cooling systems are designed to use an initial volume of water that is continuously recycled onsite and designed to prevent evaporation, rather than relying on frequent recharge water for cooling. These utility agreements can also establish contractual limits on water use based on the specific project and phase of development, monitor water usage through advanced metering and enforce limits when necessary. NOISE PROTECTIONS Zoning conditions can impose noise standards and require professional noise studies and mitigation measures. A Noise Mitigation Plan prepared by an acoustical engineer is required before building permits, and testing must confirm compliance before occupancy. The City can require corrective measures, issue citations, and take further action if necessary if the noise standards are not met. TRAFFIC & ROAD PROTECTIONS Developers are required to study the impacts of construction and operations on surrounding roads. If impacts or deficiencies are identified, necessary transportation improvements are required, and must be developer-funded, not taxpayer-funded. DEVELOPMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS The City can regulate and mitigate impacts through zoning and development standards, including requiring specific building setbacks, buffering, landscaping, screening, drainage, building codes, stormwater and erosion controls, and other site requirements.

Unified Development Code Amendments

City to require project-specific conditions, technical studies, and supporting documentation before a project could move forward.

Proposed updates to the City's Unified Development Code were presented at the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting on August 17. The UDC is the City's primary set of development regulations. It establishes the rules and processes for how land is developed, including zoning, subdivision of property, site design, landscaping, parking, buffering, drainage, and other development standards.

The UDC Amendments will have a first reading and public hearing at the September 3 City Council meeting, followed by a second reading at the September 17 City Council meeting.

Updating the UDC does not approve a specific project. Instead, it updates the City's development regulations to guide how future projects are reviewed. These proposed amendments would establish a consistent review process for future data center projects. Data center projects have always been subject to the City's zoning, engineering, utility, fire, building, and public review processes. The data centers under development were reviewed through the current zoning process where planned developments outlined project-specific standards to establish and address topics such as noise, lighting, landscaping, buffering, traffic, and site design. The proposed amendments would apply to future data center projects by requiring a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), even in zoning districts where data centers are otherwise permitted. This would provide an additional public review process and allow the

September 3 City Council Meeting The Temple City Council will consider items related to data center development during the upcoming September 3rd regular City Council meeting. Highlights include: Several proposed amendments to the Unified Development Code (UDC) related to data center development An amendment to the City’s Code of Ordinances, Chapter 38, Water, to include requirements for Utility Service Agreements for certain industrially zoned developments or special utility projects Voluntary Annexation and Zoning (Planned Development – Light Industrial) requests for property related to Rowan’s Phase 1B (Project Lasso) First reading of the redesignation and designation of Tax Abatement Reinvestment Zones Residents are encouraged to review the meeting agenda, attend, or watch the meeting to stay informed about these items by visiting templetx.gov/meetings. Additionally, more information about data center development in Temple can be found at templetx.gov/datacenters.

TO LEARN MORE AND VIEW OUR INFORMATION HUB, PLEASE VISIT

templetx.gov/datacenters

Community Project Updates Work continues across the city on projects that will strengthen Temple today and prepare for tomorrow. Whether improving transportation, upgrading parks, or enhancing public infrastructure, these investments reflect our commitment to building a community that serves residents now and into the future.

Completed and Ongoing Projects 24th Street Bridge

North and South Pea Ridge

The 24th Street Overpass and Pedestrian Improvements project began in 2024 and was nearing completion when concrete spalling was discovered in February 2025. The bridge was closed for further engineering analysis, which was completed in December 2025. After reviewing repair options, costs and traffic impacts, the City determined in spring 2026 to pursue repairs to extend the bridge’s life, with funding confirmed in June. The repair design proposal is expected to go to City Council in September 2026. Next steps: December 2026: Repair design projected for completion January 2027: Construction contract award tentatively projected Approximately one year: Estimated construction duration

24th Street Bridge

Work continues on the North and South Pea Ridge Road improvement projects, which are designed to improve mobility, capacity and connectivity in this growing area of Temple. The project has taken longer than originally anticipated due in part to unforeseen utility conflicts identified during construction. Those utilities had to be relocated before certain phases of the roadway work could continue, which affected the overall project schedule and resulted in a revised completion timeline. The current estimated completion date for North Pea Ridge is November 2026 and South Pea Ridge should be completed around the same time frame. While we understand the frustration caused by the extended timeline, the goal is to ensure the project is completed safely and built to last. We’ll continue to provide updates as work progresses.

South Pea Ridge

Ferguson Park

1st Street (Spur 290) Reconstruction of 1st Street (Spur 290) Veteran’s Memorial Blvd from University Courtyard Apartments to Avenue U is ongoing. Temporary closures and traffic detours are expected to continue through approximately January 25, 2027. Construction will include water line, drainage, roadway and traffic signal reconstruction.

Jones Park Upgrades at Jones Park are expected to be completed this fall. The playground will feature a forest theme, with additional improvements including new restroom facilities, renovated picnic shelters and the addition of a new pavilion near the playground. The park will also feature a new accessible trail system, a full-size shaded basketball court, a large playground, updated landscaping, a new irrigation system and designated wildflower areas.

Ferguson Park Progress at Ferguson Park continues and is expected to wrap up this month. The project includes a new playground, accessible sidewalks, shaded play areas and a ninja-style fitness feature. The park's new, modern design will bring a fresh play space to residents and families. Alongside the newly remodeled playground, the iconic rocket feature will remain standing, bringing a sense of nostalgia for lifelong Temple residents.

City Council August Highlights Budget Adoption

Planning for Our Neighborhoods

Council adopted the FY 2027 budget & business plan, setting the FY 2027 property tax rate at $0.7500 per $100 of taxable value. Based on the average taxable homestead value, the estimated annual City property tax bill would be $1,428.84 for tax year 2026, as compared to $1,543.74 estimated tax bill for tax year 2025. Individual tax bills will vary based on changes in each property's taxable value.

Following a community-driven planning process, Council approved the East Downs Neighborhood Plan, providing a framework to help guide future investment, development, and improvements in the area. Thank you to the East Downs neighbors and community members who took the time to participate in the planning process and share their feedback.

Community Development

City Council has called a bond election for November 3, 2026, giving Temple voters the opportunity to consider funding for a new Sammons Community Center. With Council's action, the proposition will now be placed before Temple voters. Voters will make the final decision on November 3.

City Council continues to take action on priorities that shape Temple’s future. Here are some of the key decisions and initiatives from August. To learn more about City Council and view upcoming agendas and meetings, you may visit templetx.gov/citycouncil.

Investing in Infrastructure

Council approved the purchase of easements necessary for the Little River Road Project, an important step in advancing needed infrastructure improvements.

Supporting Public Safety

Council authorized the City to apply for up to $200,000 in federal grant funding to support community policing efforts addressing the impacts of vagrancy and squatting. Council approved changes to the classifications of certified firefighters, supporting the City’s continued investment in its public safety workforce.

City Council Districts Not sure what your Council District is? Visit our Resident Resource Map to type in your address and see your Council District and corresponding Councilmember.

Mayor

District 1

District 2

District 3

District 4

Tim Davis

Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Walker

Dr. Zoe Grant

Mike Emmons

Mike Pilkington 11

LET’S TALK TEMPLE COUNCIL DISTRICT TWO Ever wonder what makes your City Council district unique or what role your councilmember has? The Mayor and four City Councilmembers, as the elected representatives of the City of Temple, formulate public policy to address community needs and assure orderly development in the City. In this video, we’re taking a closer look at District 2 with Councilwoman Zoe Grant. From its neighborhoods, parks and trails to some of Temple’s major employers and community destinations, District 2 is a growing and vibrant part of our city. To learn more about District 2, connect with your councilmember, explore ways to get involved in your local government and sign up for City communications, visit templetx.gov.

SAMMONS COMMUNITY CENTER Proposed GO Bond Election ELECTION DAY: NOVEMBER 3, 2026

Why Replace Sammons? Professional assessments identified structural deficiencies in the existing facility. The City evaluated multiple options, including repairs and partial reconstruction. Based on the scope of work identified through those assessments, replacement of the facility is proposed to address the structural deficiencies.

What Are Voters Deciding? Temple voters will consider Proposition A, which asks whether the City may issue up to $15 million in general obligation bonds for Sammons Community Center and levy the taxes necessary to repay the bonds. IF APPROVED

Proposed Facility The conceptual plan was developed with input from Sammons staff and program instructors, recreation staff, and active community center users. The current concept includes: FLEXIBLE EVENT + PROGRAM SPACES

INDOOR + OUTDOOR GATHERING AREAS

IMPROVED ACCESSIBILITY

IMPROVED PARKING

UPDATED FITNESS SPACE

SAFE FACILITY

Proposed Bond

The project would move into additional design and development, followed by bidding/procurement and construction. IF NOT APPROVED

The City would not have voter authorization to issue the proposed bonds under Proposition A. Any future decisions regarding Sammons would be considered separately by Council.

LEARN MORE

The proposed bond would authorize the City to issue up to $15 million in general obligation bonds for Sammons Community Center. $12.25M CONSTRUCTION $1.05M DESIGN + BIDDING $1.00M FURNITURE, FIXTURES, EQUIPMENT $550K TESTING + SERVICES $150K DEMOLITION $15M TOTAL ESTIMATED COST

Scan the QR code or visit

templetx.gov/bond26

FY 2027

Budget & Business Plan 1

Temple City Council has adopted the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget and five-year Business Plan. The annual FY27 budget funds City services, operations, and infrastructure for the coming year, while the five-year Business Plan provides a roadmap for addressing longer-term community needs and making strategic investments for Temple’s future. Here are the top five things to know about Temple’s FY27 Budget & Business Plan.

The average City of Temple property tax bill is expected to decrease

The FY27 property tax rate is $0.7500 per $100 of taxable value, an increase of $0.0501 from the previous year. However, an increase in the tax rate does not necessarily mean an increase in the amount you pay. Based on an average homestead taxable value of $190,512, the estimated City property tax bill is expected to decrease by approximately $103.26 per year, or $8.61 per month. Individual tax bills will vary based on changes in each property's taxable value. It is important to note this calculation is only for the City's portion of the property tax bill. Other taxing entities, such as the school district and county, have their own tax rates. You can also visit bell.countytaxrates.com/tax, where you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, which also include county, school district and other jurisdictions. You can estimate your annual City taxes with the following formula:

Property tax amount = (0.7500) x (taxable value of your property) / 100

Public Safety remains a top priority

The FY27 budget dedicates $63.7 million, 40.3% of General Fund expenditures, to public safety. Additionally, the FY 27 budget and five-year business plan adds over 100 public safety positions, planning for three additional fire stations over the six-year planning period, and other investments to help meet the community’s public safety needs. 14

Temple is investing in streets and essential infrastructure

The six-year Capital Improvement Program includes $9 million for pavement preservation, $9 million for road reconstruction and $193 million for water and wastewater infrastructure. These investments address existing infrastructure needs, rehabilitate aging systems, expand capacity, improve resiliency and help maintain reliable services as Temple continues to grow.

Utility rates change to support long-term system needs

The FY27 budget continues the City’s investment in reliable water, wastewater, and solid waste services. New utility rates will take effect October 1, 2026, and will be reflected on November bills. Water and wastewater rates will be adjusted as part of the FY27 rate changes. Because charges vary based on water usage, meter size, and the services provided to each account, the impact on individual bills will vary. The base residential solid waste rate will increase by $2 per month, plus applicable sales tax. Customers with additional carts or services may see a different increase based on their service level. Commercial solid waste rates will also be adjusted by approximately 3%. Customers can visit templetx.gov/rates for a complete list of FY27 water, wastewater, solid waste, and other utility rates and fees.

These rate adjustments support the continued delivery of essential utility services, including system maintenance, rehabilitation of aging infrastructure, capacity needs, equipment replacement, and preventive maintenance. Customers can visit templetx.gov/rates for a complete list of FY27 water, wastewater, solid waste, and other utility rates and fees.

Parks and recreation remain important investments in Temple

The FY27 budget includes $23.7 million for Parks & Recreation, supporting park improvements, recreation programs and continued investment in community spaces. The City will also continue work on the Parks, Trails and Open Space Master Plan, helping guide future improvements, and priorities for parks, trails and open spaces across Temple.

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.

templetx.gov/newsroom

Grand Opening! Saturday, September 19 | 9AM-1PM 33 E. Avenue C, Temple, TX

Join us as we officially open our doors! We'll kick things off with a ribbon cutting at 9AM, followed by a morning of local shopping, small-business support and community connection. Live Music • Food Truck • Coffee • Mini Cow • Photo Booth Cooking Demo • Bouquet Bar • Free Giveaways

sfcmtemple.com

Apply for the Youth Advisory Commission (YAC)

Applications for the City of Temple Youth Advisory Commission (YAC) are now open. YAC is a student-led program that emphasizes student empowerment and community leadership. With guidance from City of Temple staff, students participate in various learning opportunities that teach them about local government, the community and preparing for the future. For the 2026-2027 school year, the application period for Youth Advisory Commission (YAC) members ends on September 15, 2026. For more information, member requirements and to apply, please visit templetx.gov/yac.

Bulky Item Disposal Day

September 19 from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. | 2611 E Avenue H Temple residents are invited to bring bulky household items to the Solid Waste Complex for disposal. This event is offered twice a year to provide additional opportunities for residents to dispose of bulky items outside of the monthly bulky item pickup program. Residents can bring items like refrigerators, appliances, mattresses, furniture and other large items that do not fit in regular trash collection. Upon arrival, residents will check in and staff will direct you to where to unload your items. Please bring help to unload large or heavy items. Boxes will be provided on site if needed. This event is free to Temple residents. Proof of residency will be requested at check-in. Items NOT accepted at this event: Batteries Electronics Tires Household Hazardous Waste Brush (Brush is accepted year-round Monday through Friday at the Solid Waste Complex) *Household Hazardous Waste can be dropped off at the annual Household Hazardous Waste event on October 24, 2026. For additional information on Bulky Item Disposal Day, visit templetx.gov/bulkyevent.

Lunch at the Airport September 26 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport Grab lunch at the airport on Saturday, September 26! Grab a bite to eat and enjoy the planes cruising by.

Christmas Parade Applications Applications for the 2026 Christmas Parade will go live on Monday, September 28, at 8 a.m. The parade will take place Monday, December 7, at 6:30 p.m. in Downtown Temple.

Save the Date: Hispanic Heritage Month Ceremony September 30 | 10 a.m. Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center 3303 N 3rd St. The City of Temple is hosting its 5th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration to acknowledge and explore how Hispanic culture has impacted the community and honor local Hispanic leaders and residents. This event is free to attend and open to the public.

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.

discovertemple.com/downtown

First Friday Downtown Temple First Friday is back Downtown on September 4. Grab your friends, your family, or just yourself and come soak up a warm evening in the heart of downtown. Feel the beat, shop the street and enjoy downtown. Learn more on the Downtown Temple website.

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.

Gadgets Galore!

July 28 - September 26, 2026 Gadgets Galore! Various gadgets, both recognizable and strange, will be on view in Gadgets Galore!, a special exhibition illustrating how industrialization transformed every American household in the 19th century. Mass production, faster communication, and widespread transportation systems combined to industrialize the American household by inspiring the invention of the gadgets we rely on today. For more details, visit templerrhm.org.

SAVE THE DATE:

Calling all witches, wizards and seasoned sorcerers! Step into a spellbinding world of magic and mischief inside the Santa Fe Depot. This immersive event will be full of charming crafts and fantastical fun for the whole family!

October 17, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tickets on sale September 2

Whether you’ve just discovered your magic or have been practicing for years, there’s something for every young caster to enjoy. Costumes are encouraged!

Magic & Mischief

Registration is required. Tickets go on sale September 2 at 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.

templeparks.com

Corporate Challenge Corporate Challenge sign-ups are still open! Register by Friday, September 4, at 5 p.m. to compete in this year’s events – Register your team now! Gather your coworkers, rally your team and get ready to go head-to-head with other local businesses in a lineup of fun, competitive events. Events include golf, pickleball, cornhole, softball, volleyball, horseshoes, washers, sporting clays, a Fun Run and more. View the FAQ list, the Corporate Challenge Handbook and full list of events at templeparks.com/corporatechallenge.

Dunkin’ Doggies Saturday, September 12 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Lions Junction Family Water Park

Dunkin’ Doggies continues to be one of Temple’s most anticipated end-of-season events, bringing together families, pet lovers and the community for a unique and memorable experience. Grab your leash, bring your best furry friend, and join us for a barking good time on September 12! Before the waterpark closes for the season, we’re handing the pools over to the dogs for one special day of splashing, swimming and playing. Dogs of all sizes are invited to cool off and enjoy an unforgettable day with their owners. For the safety and enjoyment of all guests: Dogs must be current on rabies vaccination and have proof through printed document from veterinarian or use of PetDesk app Owners are responsible for supervising and cleaning up after their pets Aggressive behavior will not be tolerated Humans are not permitted in the water attractions Many thanks to Loop 363 for sponsoring the first 50 dogs and giveaway table. After the first 50 dogs, entry will be $5 per dog. Registration is not required. 29

Summit Recreation Center Renovation Updates 620 Fryers Creek Dr.

Construction is underway at the Summit Recreation Center, and facility hours will be adjusted during the project. Summit Recreation Center will be closed September 8–9 to allow staff to prepare for the next phase of renovations. Beginning September 10, temporary facility hours will be: Sundays: Noon – 6 p.m. Monday–Friday: 5 a.m.– 8 p.m. Saturdays: 8 a.m.– 6 p.m. For the latest information on facility hours and operations, visit templesummit.com.

Hiring for Indoor Lifeguards The Aquatics Division is looking for dependable, safety-minded lifeguards to join our indoor pool team! This is a part-time position, up to 25 hours per week, with flexible scheduling. Lifeguards will help create a safe environment for our patrons by monitoring swimmers, checking pool equipment, and assisting with opening and closing duties. If you’re attentive, responsible and enjoy working around the pool, we’d love to have you on our team! For more information about this listing, visit templetx.gov/careers.

Co-Ed Softball Looking for a less competitive softball league? Our co-ed-for-fun league is designed for the more amateur softball player and focuses more on the fun. The league offers an eight-game season with a single-elimination pre-season tournament. Games are played at A.J Mercer Complex on Sunday afternoons To participate, register your team by October 9. The season runs October 18 to December 6. Teams can register online, in person or over the phone by calling 254-298-5589.

Save the Date: Zumbathon October 10, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Join us for our Party in Pink Zumbathon on the basketball courts outside The Summit, in honor of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The event is free to attend, but attendees are encouraged to help us raise proceeds for Susan G. Komen. Every bit of support helps us spread awareness and make an impact. Join us for a fun morning of music, movement and community as we come together to raise awareness, show our support and help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. Registration is not required for this event. 31

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

Civil Service Exam Register by September 2, 2026 Exam on September 12, 2026 Temple Fire & Rescue is growing, and we're looking for the next generation of firefighters to join our team. The first step is registering for the Civil Service Exam. Applications are now open, and the exam will be held on September 12, 2026. Registration closes September 2, 2026, so don't wait to reserve your spot. If you're ready to serve the Temple community and start a rewarding career in the fire service, apply today at templetx.gov/tfrcareers.

Temple Fire & Rescue 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony Friday, September 11, 8:30 a.m. Temple Fire & Rescue invites the community to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001. A rememberance ceremony will be held on Friday, September 11, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at Central Fire Station. This solemn event will include opening remarks and the ringing of the bell to commemoreate those who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as mark the moments the South and North towers of the World Trade Center fell. 34

Brew with the Crew Saturday, September 12 | 9 a.m. Black Rifle Coffee Company 111 N. General Bruce Dr.

Join Temple Fire & Rescue for Brew with the Crew at Black Rifle Coffee Company! Stop by, grab your favorite coffee and spend the morning getting to know some of the firefighters who serve our community. Ask questions, talk fire safety, learn more about Temple Fire & Rescue or just pull up a chair and enjoy a cup of coffee with us. We hope to see you there!

Together Today, Ready Tomorrow

Tuesday, September 15 | 6-8 p.m. Temple Fire Training Center | 7268 Airport Road City of Temple Emergency Management is partnering with Temple Fire and Central Counties Services to lead an emergency preparedness lesson. Attendees will: learn how to prepare themselves, their families and their neighborhoods for emergencies explore local risks, disaster preparedness strategies and ways to cope with disasterrelated stress

This event is free to attend and open to the public.

Coffee with a Cop Friday, September 18 | 8 a.m. McDonald’s | 12731 NE HK Dodgen Loop Join us for Coffee with a Cop on Friday, September 18, at McDonald's North Loop. Come enjoy a great cup of coffee and take a few moments to connect with the officers who serve our community. It’s a relaxed, friendly way to chat, ask questions and get to know each other. You don’t have to be a Temple resident – everyone is welcome. We’d love to see you there!

COMMUNITY TALKS:

Pet & Wildlife Awareness Friday, September 11 | 5:30 p.m. Gober Party House | 1516 W. Avenue H

Temple Police will host a free, educational presentation focused on pet and wildlife awareness. Animal Services will share practical information to help residents understand what to do when dealing with domestic animals and wildlife in and around their homes. Whether it is a stray dog, an unwanted visitor in your yard or a wildlife concern, knowing who to call and what steps to take can help keep you, your family and our community safe.

Community Talks is free and open to the public.

Meet Dusty Meet K-9 Dusty, the newest member of the Temple Police Department! Dusty, a Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd mix from Poland, recently completed field training alongside his handler, Officer Kramer. The pair is assigned to day-shift patrol. Dusty is certified in criminal apprehension, narcotics detection and tracking. When he is not assisting officers, you can find him happily rolling around in the grass. Please join us in welcoming Officer Kramer and K-9 Dusty to the K-9 team!

$5 ado ptions until th e e seco xtended nd we of Sep tembe ek r!

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.

exploretpl.com

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month at Temple Public Library September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, and the Temple Public Library is inviting the community to celebrate by signing up for a library card. Recognized by the American Library Association, Library Card Sign-Up Month is a national campaign supporting the importance of library cards and children's literacy. This year's theme is "A library card hits all the right notes." Starting September 1, Temple Public Library is celebrating Library Card Sign-Up

Month by giving out limited-edition tote bags to new cardholders on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Additionally, on Saturday, September 19, the library is offering a tour of the facility, showcasing each floor, program rooms and all the resources Temple Public Library has to offer. Temple Public Library offers resident, nonresident, student, teacher, Rock and Read and quick access library cards. To obtain a library card, individuals over the age of 16 will need to present their governmentissued identification card with their current address listed or a government-issued identification card and proof of residency. Learn about how to get your library card at exploretpl.com.

Friends of the Library Labor Day Used Book Sale Stop by the Temple Public Library for the Friends of the Library Labor Day Used Book Sale, September 2–5! Browse hundreds of gently used books at bargain prices, with plenty to choose from for readers of all ages. Friends of the Library members get early access on Monday, August 31, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Not a member? You can sign up that day or anytime during the sale. The sale is open to the public: September 2–4, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. September 5, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Teachers get 20% off each day of the sale, except Saturday, September 5. Learn more by visiting the Friends of the Temple Public Library website.

TPL Book Clubs Looking for your next great read? Join a Temple Public Library book club! Book clubs are a great way to discover new books, share your thoughts and connect with fellow readers. Explore book club options and find meeting times at exploretpl.com/bookclubs. 41

Common Cents

Practical Wisdom for Everyday Money September 11 from 12 - 1 p.m. Third-Floor Board Room Make the most of your lunch hour with Common Cents, the Library’s Financial Literacy Lunch & Learn series. These free sessions cover practical money topics in a simple, approachable way, with tips you can use in everyday life. On September 11, learn how to spot the warning signs of identity theft and fraud and ways to protect your personal information. Upcoming topics include: October 9: Credit Scores & Reports November 13: Debt Management Bring your lunch and join us at noon on Friday, September 11. Register for this free event.

HOT Goodwill Resource Day September 15 | 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Second Floor

Need help with your job search or finding community resources? The Heart of Texas Goodwill team will be at the Temple Public Library to provide one-on-one assistance with resumes, job searches, basic computer skills and public assistance programs. The team can also help connect you with resources for food, housing, utility assistance, transportation, clothing, counseling and more. Stop by and get personalized help finding the resources you need. Registration is not required for this event.

Tween Advisory Board

September 15 | 5 - 6 p.m. First Floor, Teen Space | Ages 11 - 13 Calling all tweens ages 11–13! Join the Tween Advisory Board and help shape what’s happening at the library. Share your ideas, help plan programs and events, volunteer and meet other tweens. Snacks will be provided!

Teen Craft Corner

September 22 | 3 - 4 p.m. First Floor, Teen Space | Ages 12 - 18 Take a break, get creative and make something fun! Teen Craft Corner offers a new hands-on craft each month, from painting and string art to mixed-media projects and more. Join us every fourth Tuesday in the Teen Space, registration is not required.

Teen Hangout Molecular Gastronomy

September 24 | 3 - 4 p.m. Third-Floor McLane Room | Ages 13 - 18 Play with your food! Teens can step into the food lab and use science and molecular gastronomy to transform a lunchtime favorite into a futuristic PB&J. Experiment with different techniques, get creative and see what happens when food meets science. Registration is not required for this event.

Altered Art Deck: A Yearlong Craft Challenge September 26 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Second-Floor Program Room | Ages 18+

Turn an ordinary deck of playing cards into a oneof-a-kind work of art! The Altered Art Deck is a yearlong creative challenge where participants will meet monthly to explore new themes and mixed-media techniques through hands-on demonstrations and open studio time. Basic materials will be provided. Whether you're new to mixed media or an experienced artist, this is a fun, relaxed way to get creative, connect with others and build your own unique art deck throughout the year. Registration is required. Register here.

Women Authors Book Club

September 28 | 5:30 - 7 p.m. Second-Floor Program Room | Ages 18+ Join us for a monthly book discussion featuring works by women authors from around the world. This month, we’ll explore a work by Julia Alvarez and invite readers to share their thoughts, questions and perspectives on the book. All readers are welcome, whether you loved the book, had questions about it or simply want to hear what others thought. Registration is not required for this event. 44

SAVE THE DATE:

Gallery Night The Art of Collage Pick Up Supplies September 4-25 Event is October 2 | 4 - 5:30 p.m. First Floor | All ages

Get creative and be part of the Temple Public Library’s community art gallery! From September 4-25, pick up an art kit and submission form at the Library, create your collage at home and return it for display. Then, on Thursday, October 2, join us on the first floor for Gallery Night as we celebrate the creativity of our community. Enjoy light snacks, sparkling grape juice and an evening of art and connection. Art submissions are open to anyone ages 018, but Gallery Night is open to everyone. Stop by and see what your community creates!

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.

templetx.gov/publicworks

HOLIDAY GARBAGE & RECYCLING

Collection Schedule Labor Day Collection Schedule Garbage, recycling and brush/bulk collections will run on a regular schedule on Monday, September 7, Labor Day. Please have your items to the curb by 7 a.m. City offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, and will reopen Tuesday, September 8, at 8 a.m.

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 at 254298-5000. Let’s keep Temple clean and safe together!

Summer Water Conservation Check out these household tips for saving water in the warmer months. Run a full dishwasher instead of handwashing dishes or running small loads every day. Reduce your shower time by five minutes. Turn the faucet off when brushing your teeth or scrubbing your hands. Water your yard early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent waste through evaporation. Use a pool cover to reduce pool evaporation. To learn more, visit templetx.gov/waterconservation.

Help Us Keep Storm Drains Clear Keeping storm drains clear is an important part of protecting our streets and local waterways. Stormwater runoff flows directly into our creeks and streams, and anything left in the street—such as 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 by calling 254-298-5000. Let’s work together to reduce flooding and keep our stormwater systems flowing clean and clear. Learn more at templetx.gov/stormwater.

Temple Remix City of Temple Solid Waste Services gives leftover paint a second life instead of sending it to the landfill. By recycling and reusing paint, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and help keep our community beautiful - one can at a time! For more information about Temple Remix, visit templetx.gov/templeremix.

Cost & Eligibility There is no charge to drop off or pick up paint through the Temple Remix Paint Recycling Program. This service is available at no cost to City of Temple residents who pay for City utility services. Commercial entities are not eligible to participate in the program. Accepted Paint Guidelines Only latex paint is accepted in the Temple Remix Paint Recycling Program. The program does not accept oil-based paints, stains, epoxies, sealers, or any other non-latex products. Paint must be usable; dried-out or solidified paint will not be accepted and should be disposed of in your regular household trash.

Available Paint Colors Because the paint is recycled, each can may have a unique color that differs from others. Most available paint is in neutral shades, such as white, gray, or beige, but inventory changes regularly based on what is received.

Paint Drop-Off & Pick-Up Residents can drop off unwanted paint or pick up available paint at the City of Temple Solid Waste Complex, located at 2611 E Avenue H. Residents can drop off or pick up paint Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. 50

What Can You Recycle? KEEP ITEMS LOOSE! Remember, no plastic bags and no Styrofoam in your recycling bin. The City of Temple’s recycling program only accepts #1, #2 and #5 plastics. This number is noted on all recyclable items and these numbers are common on soft drink bottles, water bottles or vegetable oil containers are made out of. The following items are accepted in your recycling bin:

Aluminum and metal cans Paperboard boxes (cereal, 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 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. 51

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. 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.

Dial 3-1-1 or 254-298-5000

TEMPLE TALK: