February2026
DISTRICT2
NEWSLETTER NEWSLETTER
WelcomeFebruary
Greetings,District2Family!
Februaryinvitesustopauseandreflectonwhat trulymatters—connection,compassion,and commitmenttooneanother.Whileitmaybe theshortestmonthoftheyear,itcarriesa powerfulreminderthatevensmallactsofcare andengagementcanhavealastingimpacton ourcommunity
Thismonth,wehonorhistory,resilience,and loveinmanyforms.AswerecognizeBlack HistoryMonth,wereflectonthestrength, leadership,andcontributionsthathavehelped shapeTempleandcontinuetoguideus forward.Februaryalsoremindsustoshow appreciation forourneighbors,ourfamilies, andthemanycityemployees,firstresponders, andvolunteerswhoserveourcommunitywith dedicationeveryday
AcrossDistrict2,ourfocusremainssteadyon progressthatimprovesdailylife safeand cleanneighborhoods,dependablecityservices, andthoughtfulgrowththatrespectsour community’scharacter.Yourvoicescontinueto matter,andyourinvolvementhelpsensurethat decisionsaremadewithcare,fairness,and understanding
Aswemovethroughthewinterseason,let’s continuetolookoutforoneanother checkingonneighbors,supportinglocal
businesses,andstayingengagedinthe conversationsthatshapeourcity.Together,we arebuildingnotjustastrongerDistrict2,buta moreconnectedandcompassionateTemple. Thankyouforallowingmethehonorofserving asyourCityCouncilMember.Ilookforwardto continuingthisjourneywithyou listening, learning,andworkingtowardafuturerootedin unityandopportunity
Withwarmwishes, ZoeGrant, CityCouncilMember,District2
CONTACT& STAYINFORMED
OFFICEHOURS&AVAILABILITY
As your District 2 City Council Member, I’m committedtobeingaccessibletoyou.
While Council Members do not maintain a dedicated office, I am available to meet with you Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and6:00pm
Meetingscanbeheldatalocationthatbestfits your concern whether that’s in your neighborhood, at City Hall, or another public spacethatcanbereserved.
I value our time together and strive to respond promptlytocalls,emails,andmeetingrequests during the week Weekends are reserved for personal time, but I will always do my best to addressurgentmatters
Your input and concerns matter to me, and I’m here to listen, collaborate, and work for the bettermentofDistrict2.
Emailsarealwaysappreciated: zgrant@templetx.gov
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UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMINGEVENTS
City of Temple Celebrates Black History Month
Honoring the Legacy, Resilience, and Leadership of African Americans
The City of Temple proudly recognized Black History Month with a special celebration held at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center. The event honored the rich history, culture, and lasting contributions of African American leaders past and present whose influence continues to shape our city, our state, and our nation
Community members, city leaders, and local organizations came together to reflect on the achievements and lived experiences of African America0ns in Temple and beyond. The celebration underscored the importance of truth,
unity, and cultural pride, reminding us that the strength of our city is rooted in the diverse stories and shared progress of all who call Temple home.
Speakers shared powerful stories of perseverance, leadership, and service, highlighting the profound impact African Americans have made in education, business, faith, public service, civil rights, and community development. Music, art, and cultural expressions enriched the evening, creating a space for reflection, celebration, and connection
As we honor Black History Month, the City of Temple reaffirms its commitment to inclusion, equity, and the celebration of history — not just this month, but every day uplifting voices that continue to shape the heart, conscience, and future of our community.
AROUNDTOWN
JONESPARKMAKINGREADYFORUPGRADES
Renovation work is underway at Jones Park, located at 1102 West Avenue H, with completion expected within the next six months. The project will bring significant upgrades, including new restroom facilities, improved and additional picnic shelters, a large playground, and a fully accessible trail system Residents can also look forward to a full-size basketball court with shade, refreshed landscaping, a new irrigation system, and dedicated wildflower areas designed to enhance the park’s overall appearance and accessibility for the community
Ferguson Park
Ferguson Park, located at 1203 East Adams Avenue, will also receive major improvements. Planned upgrades include a brand-new, fully shaded playground with a ninja-style fitness area, along with connecting accessible sidewalks. Construction is anticipated to be completed by spring 2026. More to come when ground breaks.
New Building Coming Along Central
PlanningAhead
As cooler weather settles in, it’s a good time to slow down, stay safe, and take a few simple steps to protect yourself and your home. Dress in layers, check on elderly neighbors and family members, and be mindful when using space heaters or fireplaces by keeping them clear of flammable items. Shorter days also mean reduced visibility, so use extra caution when driving or walking in the early mornings and evenings. At the same time, winter is the perfect season to start thinking ahead before you know it, spring will be here. Planning now for home projects, yard cleanups, and community activities can make the transition smoother and less stressful. By staying warm, looking out for one another, and preparing early, we keep our neighborhoods safe, connected, and ready for the seasons ahead.
Maintenance, Operations, School Nutrition
(Completion 2027)
AROUNDTOWN
Sidwalks
Feed my Sheet Sunrise Center
Sidewalk work around the city.
HABS
I truly believe that bringing our vacant lots back into productive use is key to creating safer, cleaner, and more vibrant neighborhoods. When empty properties sit undeveloped, they too often attract illegal dumping, overgrowth, and safety concerns especially when many are owned by individuals who live out of state and need time to come into compliance. That’s why I want to recognize and commend the builders who are stepping forward with thoughtfully designed single-family homes and updated duplexes that fit the character of District 2. Their investment reflects a shared commitment to responsible development that strengthens our community while respecting private property rights and city safety standards. While state legislation has limited how much guidance cities can provide, we continue to encourage growth that aligns with existing neighborhoods, protects families and children, and supports long-term stability. These projects show what’s possible when development is done with care, intention, and pride in the community it serves
Check previous issues to see what homes have popped up in District 2
AROUNDTOWN DUMPSTERDROP
DISTRICT2 COUNCILMEETINGS
You’reInvited:CityCouncilMeetings
TheTempleCityCouncilmeetsonthefirstandthird Thursday of each month at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall. Each meeting is preceded by a City Council Workshop
I would love to see you there! Please attend, participate,andcomeuptomeetme letmeknow you’re from District 2. Your presence matters, and yourvoiceiswelcome.
YourOpportunitytoSpeak
Didyouknowthatatthebeginningofeachmeeting, youcanspeakforuptothreeminutesonanytopic?
Simply sign up before the meeting starts You can alsoshareinputoraskquestionsaboutitemsonthe regular agenda your feedback helps guide the decisionswemake.
