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TEMPLETX.GOV

JANUARY 2026

TEMPLE - A PLACE YOU LOVE TO CALL HOME

Table of Contents 11 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

Your gateway to discovering everything you need to know

17 DOWNTOWN TEMPLE

Unveiling the vibrant heart of our city

20 PARKS & RECREATION

Discover fun and adventure in Temple!

27 PUBLIC SAFETY:

FIRE AND POLICE Protecting and serving our community

31 TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Exploring the treasures of the public library

35 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 handles the general administration of the City of Temple and executes the policies and objectives of the City Council. The City Manager is directly responsible to the Mayor and City Council and oversees the day-to-day operations of the City by coordinating all City departments activities and functions, including the development of the Strategic Plan. The City Manager's Office also leads the financial and budget management process for the City and directs the City's efforts to plan for the future.

A New Year, A Shared Vision for Temple As we welcome the new year, I hope everyone had a safe, joyful holiday season and a wonderful start to 2026. The beginning of a new year is always a time for reflection and renewal, and here at the City of Temple, it’s also a time for listening, planning, and setting priorities for the months ahead.

As we kick off the year, we want to do so on the right foot by hearing directly from our community. One of the most important ways we do that is through the National Community Survey (NCS), which gives residents an opportunity to share honest feedback about city services and overall quality of life in Temple. Your input helps guide how we plan, invest, and make decisions that impact our city every day. The National Community Survey allows us to better understand what matters most to our residents, from public safety and transportation to parks, utilities, community design, and overall livability. It also helps us identify areas where we’re doing well and where there may be opportunities to improve, while comparing Temple’s performance to similar cities across the country. Beginning January 8, randomly selected households will receive a mailed invitation to participate in the survey. Then, starting February 5, the survey will open to all Temple residents, giving everyone the opportunity to share their perspective through an online link on the City’s website. Data collection will remain open through February 19.

I encourage everyone to take a few moments to participate when the survey becomes available. Community input is essential to effective planning and thoughtful decision-making, and your feedback plays a key role in shaping Temple’s future. We truly value your voice and look forward to working together to make 2026 a strong and successful year for our community.

Brynn Myers

Development Updates These are exciting times in the City of Temple! New developmental projects are transforming our urban landscape, promising to bring innovation and vibrancy to our community. With a focus on sustainable design, these projects are set to revitalize our city's core, creating a dynamic hub for residents and visitors alike. Stay tuned for a reimagined Temple that seamlessly blends modernity with its rich heritage, making it a place we love to call home!

Georgetown Railroad Hike & Bike Trail The Georgetown Railroad Hike & Bike Trail is a transformative project that reimagines a historic rail corridor into a shared-use path that connects neighborhoods, parks, schools, and regional destinations across south Temple. Originally serving as a vital transportation route for more than a century, the retired railroad is being preserved through a federal railbanking process, allowing the City of Temple to honor its history while giving it new life. Approved in 2021, the project will feature a 10-foot-wide trail designed for walkers, cyclists, and families, including the preservation of the iconic MK&T Railroad Bridge, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The trail will be built in multiple phases, beginning with Phase 1A, currently under construction, followed by Phase 1B extending to South 31st Street, currently in design and expected to begin construction in Spring 2026 . Future phases may continue the trail across the Leon River, creating a regional connection between Temple and Belton. View the Let’s Talk Temple Episode HERE!

Ring in the New Year on the ice! Rink on the Rails, Central Texas’s largest outdoor ice rink made entirely of real ice, is officially in its final week and will close for the season on Sunday, January 4. Before or after your time on the ice, make the most of your visit by exploring all that downtown Temple has to offer! Shop local boutiques, enjoy a meal at nearby restaurants, and discover everything our downtown has to offer. Skate into the New Year and help us send off Temple’s first outdoor ice rink in style. Tickets, hours, and full details:

hollyjollytemple.com

December 12

through

January 4 MLK Festival Grounds 301 S. 4th St. $12 admission (includes skates) $5 skate aids 7

Help Shape Temple’s Future Through the NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY The City of Temple is launching the National Community Survey (NCS) to better understand how residents feel about city services and overall quality of life. This survey plays an important role in guiding strategic planning and ensuring future decisions reflect what matters most to our community. By sharing their perspectives, residents help identify Temple’s strengths and highlight areas where improvements are needed. Developed by Polco’s National Research Center, the NCS gathers feedback on topics such as public safety, transportation, community design, utilities, inclusivity, civic engagement, and overall livability. Beginning January 8, 2026, randomly selected households will receive a mailed invitation to participate. On February 5, the survey will open to all Temple residents through a link on the city’s website, with data collection closing on February 19. Results will help the city compare Temple to similar communities nationwide and shape priorities for the future. To learn more visit templetx.gov/survey.

Join the Neighborhood Leadership Academy Registration Opens January 5

The City of Temple is excited to offer the Neighborhood Leadership Academy, a one-day program designed for residents who want to learn more about city processes and become active in their community. This program provides a unique opportunity to connect with city leaders, gain insight into local government, and network with fellow residents who share a passion for community involvement. The academy will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participants will engage in hands-on learning sessions, discussions, and interactive activities that highlight how city decisions are made and how residents can make an impact. Whether you’re looking to understand more about city operations, get involved in local initiatives, or build connections with other community-minded individuals, the Neighborhood Leadership Academy is the perfect way to grow your knowledge and leadership skills. Registration begins January 5, don’t miss this chance to be part of shaping Temple’s future! For any questions, please reach out to bgarcia@templetx.gov.

Winter Weather Ready: Protect What Matters Most As colder weather approaches, it’s important for our community to take a few simple steps to stay safe and prepared. Dressing in warm layers and staying dry can help prevent hypothermia during cold snaps, and checking on neighbors, especially seniors or those without adequate heating.

Don’t forget about the things that depend on you. Bring pets indoors or ensure they have a warm, sheltered space. Protect your home by wrapping exposed pipes to prevent freezing and costly damage, and cover or bring in outdoor plants to shield them from frost and cold winds. Finally, practice safe heating habits. Never use an oven or gas stovetop to heat your home, and always use space heaters according to manufacturer instructions, keeping them away from flammable materials. Staying prepared and weather-aware helps keep everyone safe this winter. For more tips and resources, visit staysafetemple.com.

SAVE THE DATE: Celebrate spring at Petals & Pints in Temple, the Wildflower Capital of Texas! Enjoy local craft beers, gourmet food, a car show, local artisan booths, and live music. Explore activities for all ages, learn about Texas wildflowers and pollinators, and snap photos in beautiful bloom settings.

S AV E T H E DAT E !

26th Annual Father-Daughter Dance

Friday, February 6 & Saturday, February 7 • 6 - 9 p.m. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center Get ready for the City of Temple’s 26th Annual Father-Daughter Dance, presented by Extreme Cheer & Tumble! Whether you’re ready to dance through life beneath the lights or prefer to float through the evening with effortless grace, arrive in your most wickedly dazzling attire or keep it cool and chic—either way, you will shine brighter than the Emerald City. This unforgettable evening is the perfect opportunity to create memories with daughters aged 18 and younger and the special men in their lives—whether it’s a dad, grandpa, uncle, or another amazing father figure.

KEEPING OUR NEIGHBORHOODS

Clean and Safe Alley Maintenance Information Have you ever wondered whose responsibility it is to maintain your alleyway? According to City Code, property owners are responsible for maintaining the portion of the alley from their property line to the middle of the shared alley. This means any downed limbs, litter, or overgrowth in your section of the alley is your responsibility to maintain. But don’t worry, resources are available to help! The Temple Tool Library allows residents to check out tools and equipment to beautify their homes, and the Team Up to Clean Up program equips volunteer groups with the tools and support they need to host successful neighborhood clean-up events.

If you have questions about alley maintenance or need help finding resources, visit templetx.gov/alleys, or call/text our customer care team at 254-298-5000. Thank you for helping us keep Temple clean, safe, and welcoming. Together, we can ensure our city continues to be a place we are proud to call home!

Illegal Dumping Information We know some areas continue to face ongoing dumping and trash overflow challenges. To discourage repeat issues, the City will be increasing monitoring in highproblem zones and working toward faster cleanups. Your reports are essential to helping us identify and resolve these issues quickly. Let’s keep Temple clean and safe together!

Community Happenings

Our community plays a vital role in the fabric of the City of Temple, such as sustaining its growth and prosperity. Through active engagement and collaboration, community members contribute to the overall well-being of the city, whether it's through volunteering, supporting local businesses, or participating in civic initiatives. By nurturing a strong sense of solidarity and shared responsibility, the community becomes the driving force behind positive change, shaping the city's identity and ensuring its continued success.

templetx.gov/newsroom 14

City Council December Highlights

Recognition

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.

Council approved a $2.4 million renovation project for Jones Park. The upgrades will create improved spaces for play, recreation, and community gatherings, enhancing the park experience for residents of all ages. This project reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving our public spaces for everyone to enjoy.

To learn more about council meetings, upcoming agendas, and City Council members, visit templetx.gov/citycouncil.

The City of Temple and Mayor Tim Davis awarded the 2025 Merry & Bright Holiday Lights Tour & Contest winner, a beautifully decorated home located at 6739 Misty Creek Ln. 33 homes entered and participated in the contest, and over 500 votes were cast. The Petersen’s Christmas Light Show 2025: tinyurl.com/holidaylightswinner.

Parks, Recreations, & Facilities

Infrastructure & Growth

The City Council approved Phase 1 design plans for N. 42nd Street, aiming to improve safety, traffic flow, and connectivity for drivers and pedestrians. Additionally, a $564,000 design services agreement was authorized for East Outer Loop, Tower Road, and FM 3117, ensuring these key roadways remain safe, efficient, and prepared for future growth. These investments highlight the City’s commitment to modernizing Temple’s transportation network.

City Office Holiday & Trash Pick Up Schedule City offices will be closed on Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and will reopen on Tuesday, January 20. Solid Waste will run a normal collection schedule on Monday, January 19. Please have your bins at the curb by 7 a.m.

Recycling Tip: Instead of bagging leaves for the landfill, mulch them up into your lawn, add to a compost pile, or use them as garden insulation for the winter.

Downtown Temple

Downtown Temple stands as a dynamic hub, contributing to the community's enrichment in variety of ways. Its array of restaurants draws both locals and visitors, while the district hosts a plethora of events, from festivals to parades, throughout the year. Offering a blend of local boutiques and specialty stores, downtown Temple provides residents with diverse retail options, playing a crucial role in elevating Temple life and fostering community spirit through enjoyable dining experiences, festive celebrations, and retail therapy.

discovertemple.com/downtown 17

First Friday Downtown Temple Join us for the FIRST, First Friday, in 2026! Enjoy great drinks, delicious food, and exclusive specials as downtown comes alive with fun and excitement. Enjoy an evening of local shopping, live music, food, drinks, and more as you stroll through the district, support small businesses, and start the year with good vibes and great company.

Montana Mitchell

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

Family Day: Indoor Luau Saturday, January 3 Families are invited to escape the winter chill and enjoy a festive Indoor Luau Family Day at the museum. This island-themed event offers a fun, cultural experience for all ages, bringing the warmth and spirit of the Pacific Islands indoors for a memorable day together. The highlight of the day is a special performance at 11 a.m. by ACT Pasifika, a local non-profit group dedicated to sharing the traditions and dances of Oceania. Guests can also enjoy a variety of hands-on, Hawaiian-inspired crafts and activities, including making leis, decorating tiki masks, crafting tropical drums, and participating in a lively limbo contest.

Collaboration: Railroad, Graffiti, Photography, and Design November 7, 2025 - March 7, 2026 This exhibition showcases the unexpected collaboration between corporate railroad signage and graffiti artists, as captured through the layered lens of artist Steve Oleson. Over time, industrial logos and stenciled text meant to show control are transformed by graffiti, weather, and age into something entirely new. The result is a moving canvas of pop art that blends design, street art, and cultural storytelling, turning ordinary freight trains into powerful works of visual expression.

Parks & Recreation

Parks and Recreation plays a vital role in fostering vibrant and thriving communities. By providing accessible and well-maintained parks, recreational facilities, and programs, they create spaces for individuals of all ages to engage in physical activity, socialize, and connect with nature. As well as organizing community events, sports leagues, and cultural activities, promoting a sense of unity and belonging among residents.

templeparks.com 20

Iron Lion

Saturday, January 24, from 9–11 a.m.

Start 2026 with movement, laughter, and community at Iron Lion. This allages event is packed with exciting activities, including the Yeti Run, a fun obstacle-style course, Arctic Aim throwing challenges for all ages, and a Polar Plunge Finale for participants ages 5 and up. Warm cocoa will be served afterward to help everyone recharge and celebrate their efforts. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a morning full of energy and fun. Visit TempleParks.com/ironlion to register today!

Dino Discoveries Wednesday, January 14, from 10 –11:30 a.m.

Roar, stomp, and explore the prehistoric world of dinosaurs at Dino Discoveries, designed for children ages 2–6. Our little paleontologists will dig into hands-on learning with dino-themed crafts, fossil activities, and fun dinosaur games that spark curiosity and imagination. Join us at Wilson for this exciting adventure! Cost: $7 per child. Register here!

Join a Temple Parks & Recreation Athletic League The City of Temple offers a variety of leagues and clinics for all ages and skill levels. Sign up today and join the fun—here’s a full list of upcoming opportunities for Winter & Spring 2026:

BASKETBALL

SOFTBALL

Winter Men’s Basketball League February 9 – May 20

Spring Men’s Softball League March 30 – June 3

CORNHOLE

VOLLEYBALL

Winter Cornhole League January 20 – March 10

Winter Co-Ed Volleyball League January 22 – May 28

PICKLEBALL

Girls Volleyball League Spring 2026 March 30 – May 16; ages 8–14

Intro to Pickleball Clinics Saturdays in January

Rising Stars Volleyball Clinic – Spring 2026 February 15 – March 8; ages 8–14

Winter DUPR Ladder League Wednesdays, January 21 – February 25 Popcorn DUPR Scramble Tournament Saturday, January 10 Level Up 101 Pickleball Clinic Tuesdays, January 20 – February 24

Whether you’re looking for fun, competition, or skill-building, Temple Parks & Recreation has a league for you! Visit templeparks.com/leagues to register and learn more.

Join Our Team! Working in aquatics means being part of a team that keeps summer running. From lifeguards to swim instructors and guest services staff, each role plays a part in creating safe, welcoming spaces at the pool. Along the way, you build real skills, make new connections, and leave with memories that last beyond the season.

Public Safety

Our police and fire departments are crucial to our community’s well-being, ensuring the protection and security of community members. From patrolling neighborhoods and investigating crimes, conducting safety awareness programs, offering emergency medical assistance and community outreach, public safety professionals play a pivotal role in safeguarding the community while instilling peace of mind and fostering a sense of security among community members. Our first responders are at the forefront of protecting our neighborhoods, providing essential aid during crises, and promoting a sense of safety and reassurance among our community members.

templetx.gov/police | templetx.gov/fire 24

JOIN TEMPLE FIRE & RESCUE IN

Celebrating Chief Randles

AND HIS SERVICE TO THE CITY OF TEMPLE

Monday, January 5 at 2 p.m. | Central Fire Station

The Temple Fire & Rescue Department invites the community to join us in celebrating the retirement of Fire Chief Mitch Randles on January 5 at 2 p.m. at Central Fire (210 N Third St.). This special come and go gathering will honor Chief Randles as he says goodbye after a distinguished career dedicated to serving and protecting the Temple community. Chief Randles has led the department with integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to public safety. His leadership has shaped the department, supported countless firefighters, and strengthened the safety and resilience of our city. Community members are encouraged to attend and help us thank Chief Randles for his years of service, leadership, and lasting impact on Temple. We look forward to celebrating his career and wishing him well in his next chapter.

Montana Mitchell

Coffee with a Cop

Friday, January 16 at Bella Blue Cafe Join us for Coffee with a Cop on Friday, January 16th, from 7 to 9 a.m. at Bella Blue Cafe, located at 1323 S 57th St! It's a fantastic opportunity to bring in the new year, meet police officers with the Temple Police Department, and enjoy a delicious coffee with great conversations. We hope to see you there!

COMMUNITY CHATS:

Scam Seminar

Friday, January 23 at Gober Party House Temple Police will host an educational scam awareness seminar on Friday, January 23, from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Gober Party House. The session will focus on common scams affecting residents, including phone, online, email, and door-to-door schemes. Officers will share practical tips to help attendees recognize fraudulent activity, avoid financial loss, and learn how to properly report suspicious behavior. Preregister here!

Petco Love Lost is a free, national lost-and-found pet database designed to help reunite missing cats and dogs with their families. By uploading a photo of a lost or found pet, the platform uses advanced photo-matching technology to search thousands of listings from individuals and shelters across the country to identify possible matches. In addition to photo matching, Petco Love Lost allows users to create shareable alerts and printable posters to spread the word quickly throughout the community. This no-cost tool makes the process of finding lost pets easier, faster, and more effective. Heart to Home Animal Shelter is proud to use Petco Love Lost as part of our ongoing commitment to helping pets safely return home. For more information visit templetx.gov/hearttohome.

(Stray pets are held for three days before adoption. To report a missing pet or for more information, visit temple.gov/lostanimals.)

Temple Public Library

The public library serves as a hub of knowledge, learning, and community engagement within a community. Its role extends far beyond providing access to books. The public library acts as a valuable resource and a catalyst for personal growth, education, and community development. Come join us at Temple Public Library as we eagerly anticipate bringing the community together and stimulating intellectual growth.

exploretpl.com 28

Epic Reads: Finish a Masterpiece Epic Reads Book Club, is an adult book club for readers who want to finally dive into classic novels they’ve heard about for years. The club offers a relaxed, welcoming space for thoughtful discussion—no pressure or prior expertise required. Members meet throughout the year to explore well-known works, starting with an introduction meeting on January 3. Learn more at exploretpl.com/epicreads.

Winter Reading Challenge Warm up your winter with the Temple Public Library’s Winter Reading Challenge: Cozy Up with a Good Book! Join in on this fun reading program, complete activities to earn rewards like novelty erasers, and finish the challenge to receive a free book. Engage in interactive activities alone or with a caregiver while enjoying the magic of stories. The program runs through January 31, 2026, to learn more visit exploretpl.com/winterreading. 29

FiftyIn50 Reading Challenge

Take your reading to the next level with FIFTYin50! Read 50 books from 50 different categories in 50 weeks and earn an exclusive Temple Public Library prize. Challenge yourself to explore new genres, strengthen your reading skills, and spark your imagination. Adult and YA books, including audiobooks, count—one book per category—and the goal is to expand your literary horizons like never before.

Take the A–Z Author Reading Challenge!

Challenge yourself with the A–Z Author Reading Challenge at Temple Public Library! Read 26 books by 26 different authors—one for each letter of the alphabet— at your own pace through December 21, 2026. This is a fun way to explore new authors, expand your reading horizons, and discover fresh stories you might not have picked up otherwise. Sign up and track your progress at temple.beanstack.org. 30

Explore Free Digital Resources with Your Library Card Kick off 2026 by taking full advantage of the Temple Public Library’s e-content! With your library card, you can access cloudLibrary for eBooks, eAudiobooks, and comics; TumbleBooks for animated, talking picture books and educational games for kids; and free online study tools like OpenStax, Wikibooks, Open Culture, and The American Yawp. Expand your horizons with Mango Languages, an interactive platform for learning new languages at your own pace, all from the comfort of home. Families can use My Book Bag to manage checkouts and keep track of borrowed items, while students can take advantage of schoollinked resources and lesson plans through TumbleBooks. These digital resources make reading, learning, and exploring easier than ever— anytime, anywhere. All of these tools are free with your library card and are designed to make it simple to enjoy reading, learning, and discovery throughout the year. Learn more and start accessing these resources today by visiting the Temple Public Library EContent Section.

The Temple Public Library’s Instagram has officially been relaunched! Be sure to follow @templepubliclibrary to stay connected. 31

Public Works

Public Works plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for community members. Their primary objective is to ensure the maintenance, development, and improvement of public infrastructure and services. From roads and bridges to water supply systems and parks, public works departments are responsible for managing and enhancing these essential elements of a community. Their efforts contribute to the safety, accessibility, and overall quality of life within the community.

templetx.gov/publicworks 32

Scheduling Your Brush & Bulky Item Pickup Just Got Easier! Temple residents now have more convenient ways than ever to schedule their Brush & Bulky item collection. You can easily request a pickup online at ttxconnect.com, through the TTX Connect App, by using the online chat at templetx.gov, or by calling 254-298-5000 during regular business hours (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.). Each residence receives one free brush pickup and one free bulky item pickup per month. Residents can also continue to drop off brush at the Solid Waste Complex during normal hours and bring bulky items to the landfill once per month at no additional cost with a current utility bill. For full guidelines and details, visit templetx.gov/solidwaste.

Protect Your Irrigation System This Winter As temperatures drop in Temple, it’s important to take a few simple steps to protect your irrigation system from freezing weather. Cold temperatures can cause water in pipes to freeze and expand, leading to cracks, breaks, and costly repairs if systems are left unprotected. To winterize your irrigation system, start by turning the system off to prevent water from flowing during freezing conditions. Next, drain the system completely so no water is left inside the pipes. Finally, wrap any exposed exterior pipes, backflow preventers, and faucets with insulated covers or towels to provide added protection from the cold. Taking these preventative steps now can save you time, money, and frustration later while keeping your system in good shape for spring. For more winter weather tips, visit templetx.gov/protectyourpipes.

Christmas Tree Recycling December 26 to January 9

The City of Temple is excited to bring Christmas tree recycling back this year, giving residents an easy, eco-friendly way to wrap up the holiday season. Free Christmas tree recycling will be available from December 26 to January 9. Christmas Trees can be dropped off anytime, at 602 Jack Baskin Drive or Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at 2611 E Ave H.

Monthly Dumpster Drop We understand how important it is to keep our neighborhoods clean and safe for everyone. That’s why the City of Temple is committed to continuing our Dumpster Drop program. We hope this initiative helps reduce illegal trash and tire dumping, making our community a better place for all of us! What we provide: A large container placed monthly in different parts of town A separate trailer for the disposal of tires This month will include one drop: January 9 - 12 in the Midtown District at 601 Mama Dog Circle. For more info, please visit templetx.gov/dumpsterdrop to learn more!

Dispose of Holiday Cooking Grease Properly The City of Temple will be collecting used cooking oil following the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Holiday grease collection will take place from Friday, December 26, through Friday, January 9. Residents can bring their used cooking oil to the locations listed below during these dates.

Central Fire Station

210 N. Third St.

Fire Station #3

3606 Midway Dr.

Fire Station #7

8420 W. Adams Ave.

Solid Waste Complex

2611 E Avenue H.

Oil must be in a closed container. Drop-off times are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit templetx.gov/fog for more information.

2026

A Look Into February SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

6 First Friday

16 Presidents’ Day 17

Black History Month Ceremony

KEY

CITY OF TEMPLE CITY OF TEMPLE HOLIDAYS DOWNTOWN

TEMPLE TALK: