City Newsletter - November 2025

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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!

Protecting and serving our community

TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Exploring the treasures of the public library

PUBLIC

Learn

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 department 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.

The ceremony will include remarks from local leaders and special guests, as well as a moving musical performance by the Temple ISD Choir.

It’s a time for our community to unite in appreciation and reflection, recognizing the courage and commitment of those who have worn our nation’s uniform.

As we celebrate Veterans Day, let’s also remember that honoring our veterans extends beyond a single day. Whether it’s supporting veteran-owned businesses, volunteering with local organizations, or simply offering a heartfelt “thank you,” each of us can play a part in showing our appreciation yearround. Together, we can ensure that Temple remains a place where veterans and military families feel valued, supported, and at home.

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!

Downtown City Center

Grand Opening

This month marks a major milestone for the city as we celebrate the Grand Opening of the Downtown City Center. The project serves as a cornerstone of the city’s Downtown Master Plan, designed to create a vibrant, accessible, and connected destination in the heart of Temple. The transformation includes revitalized streetscapes along Central Avenue from 2nd to 6th Street, improved pedestrian walkways, and enhanced infrastructure that make the area more walkable and welcoming for residents and visitors alike.

The Downtown City Center Project also features the redevelopment of several historic landmarks, including the Hawn Hotel, Arcadia Theater, and Sears building, as well as a new parking garage on 4th Street to support growing downtown activity.

The City of Temple is hosting a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Friday, November 7 at 6 p.m. along E. Central Ave and S. 2 St. All are encouraged to attend. nd

City Council October 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.

ITEM R

Arts & Culture Master Plan

City Council adopted the new Arts & Culture Master Plan, which establishes a vision to grow Temple’s creative economy and expand access to public art and cultural programming. The plan serves as a roadmap for fostering community engagement through the arts, supporting local artists, and celebrating Temple’s unique cultural identity.

ITEM C

Police Vehicles and Equipment

Council authorized the purchase of 16 new marked police vehicles from Silsbee Ford, along with additional pole cameras to enhance neighborhood patrol and safety. These investments aim to improve visibility, response times, and overall public safety across the community.

ITEM AB

Community Development Block Grant Agreements

The FY26 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Subrecipient Agreements were approved, allocating $100,000 each to Feed My Sheep and Family Promise of Bell County. These funds will help reduce homelessness and support families in need through housing assistance, transportation, and other critical services.

City Office Holiday Hours & Collection Schedule

Veterans Day Holiday Collection

Garbage and Recycling will run a regular collection schedule on Tuesday, November 11, Veterans Day. Please have your items on the curb by 7 a.m. City offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, and reopen on Wednesday, November 12 at 8 a.m.

Thanksgiving Holiday Collection

Thursday, November 27 collections will run on Friday, November 28

No collections on Thursday, November 27

Landfill closed Thursday, November 27

Friday, November 28, collections will run on Saturday, November 29 City offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27, and Friday, November 28, and will reopen on Monday, December 1.

Please remember that while we are committed to staying on schedule, delays may still occur. We appreciate your patience as our crews work diligently to serve the community. For the latest updates on collection delays, please visit templetx.gov/solidwaste Thank you for your understanding!

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.

Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

Join us for the 4th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday, November 10th at 11:30 a.m. at the Santa Fe Depot, located at 315 W. Avenue B. This special event will honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

The ceremony will feature remarks from city officials, military leaders, and special guests, with a performance by the TISD Choir. It’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and express gratitude for the sacrifices made by our veterans.

This event is free and open to the public.

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.

Hometown Heroes Banner Program

The City of Temple is excited to announce that the Hometown Hero Banners are now proudly displayed around the Santa Fe Plaza (301 W. Ave A). These banners, honoring our veterans and current active service members, will be displayed throughout the Plaza. We are privileged to honor these heroes in our community and take great pride in showcasing their contributions to our country.

Come by and see the banners that celebrate their bravery and service!

Friday, November 14 | 5 - 8 p.m.

The City of Temple is excited to host the third annual Community Summit on Friday, November 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Santa Fe Plaza in Downtown Temple. This free, familyfriendly event is a great opportunity for residents to connect with City departments, learn about the programs and services available, and provide valuable feedback to help shape the future of our community.

Enjoy live music, snow cones, bounce houses, prizes, SWAG, and a chance to win a $500 gift card courtesy of H-E-B. Whether you’re looking to get involved, share your voice, or just enjoy a night out with the family, the Community Summit is the perfect place to do it all. Learn more at templetx.gov/communitysummit.

Annual Merry & Bright Holiday Lights Tour & Contest

The City of Temple is hosting the 4th Annual Merry & Bright Holiday Lights Tour & Contest. Residents are invited to showcase their holiday spirit by decorating their homes, submitting a photo, and participating in this festive event. The Merry & Bright Holiday Lights Tour & Contest is a fun way to transform both your home and the city into a festive wonderland, spreading holiday cheer throughout the community.

Sign-ups open Monday, November 17 until Friday, December 5 at 5 p.m. Voting will then take place from December 815 The winner will receive a keepsake award presented by Mayor Tim Davis. To sign-up and find the rules of participation, please visit templetx.gov/holidaylights. th

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City Prepares for Updates to the Unified Development Code

The City of Temple is taking steps to update its Unified Development Code, a comprehensive set of regulations that guide how the city grows and develops. Originally adopted in 2010, the UDC has served as the foundation for zoning, subdivision, and development standards for more than 15 years With Temple’s continued growth, it’s time to review and modernize these regulations to better reflect the city’s evolving needs.

The upcoming updates will address a variety of areas, including sign regulations, subdivision requirements, zoning districts, and development standards. These changes aim to support orderly growth while ensuring transparency and opportunities for public input throughout the process Community members are encouraged to stay informed and get involved by visiting templetx.gov/udcupdates.

Downtown Temple

Downtown Temple stands as a dynamic hub, contributing to the community's enrichment in a 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.

Trackside Cinema: The Princess Diaries

Saturday, November 8

Join us for a royally fun night at Trackside Cinema featuring the beloved classic The Princess Diaries on November 8 at The Yard in Downtown Temple. Food trucks open at 5:30 p.m., so grab your snacks early and settle in, the movie starts at dusk. Bring your besties, your blankets, and maybe a tiara or two. Get ready for a night of laughs, heartfelt moments, and all the makeover magic you remember.

Don’t miss this chance to relive Mia Thermopolis’s journey from ordinary teen to extraordinary princess under the stars!

First Friday

Friday, November 7

Join us for First Friday in Downtown Temple on November 7 for a Block Party on 2nd Street! Enjoy great drinks, delicious food, and exclusive specials as downtown comes alive with fun and excitement.

Don’t miss out, explore the full list of happenings here: bit.ly/3vAXira

The Princess Diaries | Nov 8 MOVIE STARTS AT DUSK

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

A Indoor Camping Adventure: Family Day at the Museum

Saturday, November 1 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Head to the Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum on Saturday, November 1, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a camping-themed Family Day filled with creativity and cozy fall fun! Kids can enjoy hands-on crafts like building their own camping diorama, crafting a glowing campfire, and making colorful beaded maize art. Families can also design tree stencils, create festive turkey hats, and enjoy a delicious deconstructed s’mores snack!

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.

Off-Season Swim Lessons

Now Open at Sammons Park Indoor Pool

Stay active and confident in the water all year long with off-season swim lessons at Sammons Park Indoor Pool. Classes are available Monday and Wednesday evenings or Saturday mornings, making it easy to fit lessons into your schedule.

Each session includes four classes for just $50. Stay warm, stay active, and make a splash this season! Learn more and register at templeparks.com/swimlessons.

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.

Spread Holiday Cheer with Temple Police Department’s Blue Santa

The Temple Police Department’s Blue Santa program is once again bringing joy to families in need this holiday season. Families wishing to apply for assistance can do so through November 14, at 5 p.m. Applications must be completed in full and include proof of residency and children’s ages. Visit templetx.gov/bluesanta for details on eligibility and how to apply.

You can also catch Blue Santa at Christmas on the Plaza, a magical holiday celebration kicking off the City’s Holly Jolly festivities. Enjoy live entertainment, a holiday market, and the annual tree lighting show while supporting a great cause. Attendees are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped gifts, books, or monetary donations to help make the season brighter for Temple families.

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.

T3: Temple Texas

Tabletop Returns!

Get ready for a full day of tabletop fun at the Temple Public Library’s fourth annual T3: Temple Texas Tabletop on Saturday, November 8, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Celebrate International Games Month with board games, RPGs, and activities for all ages.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, enjoy exciting quests, friendly competition, and a welcoming community of players. Registration is now open, the first 50 participants to register will receive a free set of dice!

Youth Chess Club

Calling all young chess enthusiasts! Join the Temple Chess Club on Saturday, November 15, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the McLane Room at the Temple Public Library. Whether you’re new to the game or an experienced player, this is a great opportunity to learn, play, and connect with others who love chess.

Volunteers will be available to help guide players of all skill levels. Open to ages 6 and up.

20Something Sunday Social: Anime Edition

Looking for a fun, low-pressure way to meet new people? Join the 20Something Sunday Social on Sunday, November 16, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Quiet Room at the Temple Public Library. This month’s theme is Anime! Celebrate your favorite fandoms with themed games, crafts, and great conversation! It’s the perfect chance to relax, get creative, and connect with other 20somethings in a welcoming space.

Open to adults ages 20–29. No registration required.

Crafternoons: Post-

Holiday Pop-Up

Ease back into creativity after the holiday rush at the first Crafternoon of the season! Join us on Saturday, November 29, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. for a relaxing afternoon of hands-on fun as we explore a bubble and pigment marbling technique to create oneof-a-kind paper designs perfect for cards, gift tags, or future craft projects.

All supplies and instructions are provided, making this activity beginner-friendly and nearly messfree Unwind, connect, and let your creativity flow at this colorful paper-personalization workshop!

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.

Dispose of Thanksgiving Cooking Grease Properly

The City of Temple will be collecting used cooking oil beginning November 28 through December 5. MondayFriday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at participating Fire Stations & Solid Waste Complex:

�� 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.

Help Us Keep Storm Drains Clear

As storms and showers 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.

Trash & Recycling Route Updates

Just a reminder, garbage and recycling are now picked up on the same day, once a week, by two separate trucks. This change is part of our effort to simplify service and improve convenience for residents. We're also operating on a five-day collection schedule, so your pickup day may have changed.

To find your updated collection day and learn more about these changes, visit templetx.gov/solidwaste. Additionally, if you have any other questions, please give us a call at 254.298.5000.

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

Rakes, shovels, and other tools available through the Temple Tool Library

This month will include one drop: November 14-17 in the Walker Pool at 2603 N 3 Street. rd

For more info, please visit templetx.gov/dumpsterdrop to learn more!

TEMPLE TALK: In Case You Missed It

4th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Ceremony

The City of Temple proudly hosted its 4th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Ceremony, and it was a wonderful celebration of culture, community, and tradition. So many residents came out to honor the rich heritage that continues to shape our city, filling the event with vibrant energy and pride. Guests heard inspiring remarks from city leaders and community members, reflecting on the lasting impact of Hispanic culture on Temple’s growth and spirit.

National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 through October 15, is a time to recognize the traditions, values, and stories that unite us. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us for this special event and helped make it such a memorable celebration of diversity and community pride in Temple.

Coming Soon...

Embrace the joy of the holiday season and join us for an exciting month-long celebration of festive fun known as Holly Jolly.

Temple is transforming into a captivating wonderland of holiday cheer, adorned with twinkling lights, stunning decorations, and an array of heartwarming events. Delight in the magic of this special season as the city comes alive with the spirit of holiday cheer.

Don't miss out on all the holiday happenings! Keep an eye out for a complete list of holiday events and activities at:

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.

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City Newsletter - November 2025 by City of Temple - Issuu