June 25 meeting. The increased tax exemption impacts those who are disabled (as defined by the Social Security Administration as one who is totally disabled) or 65 years or older.
The amount is effective for Tax Year 2024 and will automatically increase for pre-qualified individuals. In addition, the homestead exemption for all Carrollton residents remains at 20 percent.
How to Qualify
The individual must:
• Own a single-family residential unit within the City of Carrollton
• Apply before the first anniversary of their qualification date to receive the exemption that year
• Not claim a homestead exemption on any other property
For more information, individuals should contact their central appraisal district.
cityofcarrollton.com/taxes
Top 6 Things to Know About the Festival
Plan for a day of free fun at Carrollton’s 14th Annual Festival at the Switchyard set for Saturday, November 2 in Downtown.
The 2024 Festival, held on the streets of Historic Downtown Carrollton, located off I-35E and Belt Line Road, promises to be a fun-filled day with local crafts and treats, arcade games and pinball machines, and rocking good shows from morning to evening. The rain or shine event kicks off at 11 a.m. and wraps up at 10 p.m.
FREE
No entry fee or ticket needed
Bring spending money for food, drinks, and shopping
Live Music
The Wallflowers
Deep Blue Something Downtown Fever Mock Lobster: A B-52’s Tribute Pearl Gem: A Pearl Jam Tribute Havana NRG Jason Kyle Wickens School of Rock and more
Entertainment
Dancers, jugglers, magicians, martial artists, cheerleaders, cosplayers, local school dance teams, K-pop, and more
Sponsors (to date):
Free Rides & Games
Craft area, carnival games, zip line, bungee trampolines, inflatables, face painting, balloon art, and more
Parking
Craft
Extremely
Limited: Ride the DART Green Line to the Downtown Carrollton Station; regular charges apply, dart.org/fares
New Park Play Area
Great news for playground fans. In partnership with local equipment supplier Whirlix and manufacturer Landscape Structures, the City recently installed a state-of-the-art playground structure at Branch Hollow Park (2050 E. Branch Hollow Drive). The setup includes features that encourage children to find their unique playstyle by climbing and sliding throughout multilayered elements with a perpetual loop of activities. The playground incorporates free-standing sensory play units, open space areas with mounds for imaginative play, shade features, and challenging play experiences for visitors of all ages and physical capabilities. Carrollton is the first municipality in the U.S. to install this brand new play structure for residents. The surrounding park also offers grills, a pavilion, tennis courts that can be reserved, and access to Carrollton’s Blue Trail.
cityofcarrollton.com/parks
Having Tech Trouble?
Whether setting up a new device, troubleshooting software issues, or learning how to use digital resources, the Carrollton Public Library (CPL) can help. CPL will offer drop-in Tech Aid biweekly, beginning September 4, on Wednesdays from 2-3 p.m. to residents who are facing technology challenges. provide aid with malware, virus removal, or making any kind of purchases. cityofcarrollton.com/library
Register Alarm Permits
The City requires an alarm permit for all residential and business alarms operating within the City (Chapter 110, City of Carrollton Code of Ordinances). valid permit is not available, emergency response could be suspended. Alarm systems may be registered online, by mail, or in person.
972-466-3525
cityofcarrollton.com/alarmpermit
New Assistant City Manager Appointed
A nationwide search ends with an experienced professional and a bright future for Carrollton’s municipal services.
Following a nationwide search, the City of Carrollton has selected Shannon Hicks to serve as Assistant City Manager. Hicks assumed his role on Monday, August 26 replacing former Assistant City Manager Marc Guy, who retired in June after 38 years of dedication to the Carrollton community.
Carrollton’s organizational structure includes two Assistant City Managers. Hicks will oversee operations of the Development Services, Economic Development, Engineering, Environmental Services, Fleet & Facilities, and Public Works departments.
“I’m thrilled to join Carrollton’s incredible team, known for its outstanding culture and dedication to public service, Hicks said. “I look forward to building strong relationships and contributing to the community.”
Hicks has more than 18 years of municipal directorial experience. He has spent the last four years as Director of Public Works and Engineering for the Town of Addison, where he oversaw operations including water and sewer services, street maintenance, stormwater drainage, engineering, and capital projects. He has previously served as Director of Public Works and City Engineer for the City of Webster, Texas and as Assistant City Engineer for the City of Deer Park, Texas, where he managed a diverse range of services such as wastewater treatment, animal control, engineering, and the maintenance of streets, water and sewer systems, parks, city facilities, and fleet services.
“Shannon will be a tremendous asset to the City’s Executive Team,” City Manager Erin Rinehart said. “His depth as a leader, experience, and desire to serve the citizens and employees of Carrollton make him the ideal candidate for the position.”
Prior to transitioning to the public sector, Hicks served as a project, site, and operations manager for civil construction projects, both in the United States and abroad. His experience includes managing large-scale utility projects and providing logistics and construction support to the U.S. Army in Iraq.
Hicks earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of New Orleans and is a licensed Professional Engineer in Texas and a Certified Public Works Professional in Management.
cityofcarrollton.com/IMPACT
Brush, Bulk Waste Collection Reminder
Republic Services, the City’s solid waste contractor, collects residential bulk (tree trimmings, limbs, and branches) and brush (items too large for green roll-out containers, including bagged or boxed material) on a weekly basis at the street curb in front of the home, not in the alley. Other reminders include:
Waste collected weekly on regular collection day at the street curb in front of the home
Placed no earlier than 6 p.m. of the evening before and no later than 6:30 a.m.*
All limbs cut into 4-ft lengths and placed in bundles not exceeding 40 lbs.
Refrigerant removed by a certified professional
Install A Smart Wi-Fi Sprinkler Controller
Contractors responsible for removal and disposal of all construction debris
• All bulk and brush waste should be generated on the property by the homeowner.
• Loose bulk items should be bagged or boxed and not exceed 50 pounds.
• Materials from small home-repair projects should not exceed a six-by-four-foot neatly stacked pile.
• Plate glass should be taped corner to corner and side to side, or broken and secured inside a box as loose material.
*Early placement may incur a fine, and late placement may result in a missed pickup.
972-466-4950 • cityofcarrollton.com/solidwaste
Calling All Festival Volunteers
Volunteers are the real rockstars of Carrollton’s Festival. Support the community, then enjoy the show — all in a day’s work.
Be the heart and soul of the City of Carrollton’s 14th annual Festival at the Switchyard by signing up to volunteer on Saturday, November 2.
The tens of thousands of visitors who enjoy free family fun in Historic Downtown Carrollton benefit from the service of volunteers who support City staff throughout the day to create a safe, clean, and enjoyable event for everyone.
As a thank you for their time, volunteers will receive a free volunteer T-shirt, a free lunch, and a great parking spot close to the event site while volunteering (available on a first-come, first-served basis).
Volunteers must be available for at least two hours and will perform duties such as passing out event programs, greeting attendees, monitoring rides and games, and assisting with children’s activities. Open to ages 16
and older. Ages 14-15 will be accepted with adult supervision if they are part of a school, church, or Scout group.
Applications are available on the Festival’s website. Sign up today!
A great way to save water automatically is to install a WaterSense-labeled smart sprinkler controller. The controller is easy to install and simple to program using a smartphone and local weather data to help water the correct amount. It will even skip a sprinkler run if rain is in the forecast. Plus, many have an automated cycle and soak feature. Set up to run 2X per week or less and let the controller do the rest. waterisawesome.com
Have Bulky Items?
Trying to get rid of junk and bulky waste such as large appliances and furniture can be difficult and time-consuming. Follow these guidelines for a safe, manageable collection:
• Leave items such as sofas/couches and chairs fully assembled.
• Remove doors from large appliances.
Acceptable items: Furniture, large and small appliances, sofas, mattresses, rugs, water heaters, TVs, washers, dryers, and grills (no propane tanks)
Appliances such as an air conditioner, refrigerator, water cooler, dehumidifier, freezer, and any appliances containing refrigerants must be confirmed emptied of the chemical by a certified professional.
Restricted Items: Brick, tile, stone, concrete blocks, tires, and railroad ties
• Contractor-generated home repair materials
• Very large items that cannot be picked up safely by two individuals
• Electronics, batteries, household chemicals, paint, automotive fluids, and more are handled using the Household Hazardous Waste program: cityofcarrollton.com/HHW
Residents may request collection of bulk waste on a day other than the regularly scheduled trash day for a fee.
972-466-4950
cityofcarrollton.com/solidwaste
Elm Fork Nature Preserve
Carrollton’s own slice of wilderness is right down the road. Explore. Hike. Learn. Enjoy.
The Elm Fork Nature Preserve (EFNP) is a special area in Carrollton where visitors can enjoy the outdoors, learn about the natural environment, observe the wildlife, and take in some local history.
Located one mile west of I-35E on Sandy Lake Road within Carrollton’s McInnish Sports Complex, the EFNP is a wooded area with a looping, one-mile natural surface trail for walkers, runners, kids, and adults with a connecting crossover trail in the middle for shorter adventures, and a Nature Center nestled near the entrance to the preserve. The trail is open for hikes every day from dawn to dusk and requires no admission fee.
Dallas County purchased the land from the Bramblitt family in 1983, and the City partnered with the County in 1986 to create the EFNP and, more recently, to provide a more dedicated focus on the Nature Center within the preserve.
This fall, the Nature Center will be open from 1-5 p.m. on Thursdays beginning September 5 through November 21, weather permitting. Visitors of all ages can enjoy nature projects and interactive tables. Activities throughout the year, such as nature hikes, trail cleanups, and special events, can be found in Carrollton’s Leisure Connections magazine, which is available at the three Recreation Centers, two Library locations, City Hall, and other facilities, as well as online at cityofcarrollton.com/leisuremag.
As a nature preserve, the EFNP is a place where flora and fauna are protected, and visitors should stay on the trail at all times. Take only pictures, leave only footprints, and dress according to the weather. Wear comfortable long pants, closed-toe shoes, and bring along bottled water and insect repellent.
cityofcarrollton.com/naturepreserve
Slow Down Around Pedestrians
Reducing the driving speed in residential areas can greatly minimize the risk of injury and reduce fatalities on the road.
As autumn leaves begin to fall, Carrollton Fire Rescue (CFR) is shining a spotlight on Pedestrian Safety. This October, CFR urges all drivers to prioritize caution and vigilance — not only for themselves and their passengers’ safety, but also for the well-being of everyone around.
Did you know? The risk of a pedestrian sustaining serious injury or fatality drastically increases with higher speeds. When a vehicle is traveling at 30 mph, there is a staggering 45 percent chance that a pedestrian could be severely harmed if struck. In contrast, reducing the speed to 20 mph lowers that risk to a mere 5 percent.
Slow down, stay alert, and help keep Carrollton’s streets safer for everyone.
cityofcarrollton.com/fire ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Upcoming Events
Library Book Sale, Oct. 10, 12-8 p.m. & Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Hebron & Josey Library – Purchase books, movies, and music. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted. Proceeds fund Library programming.
Perry Pumpkin Patch & Craft Fair, Oct. 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Perry Museum – Enjoy classic, old-fashioned games, beautiful photo opportunities, homemade craft vendors, a petting zoo, and a pumpkin patch. Due to limited quantities, pumpkin reservations are required
Mother/Son Monster Mash, Oct. 19, 6-9 p.m., Creekview High School –Enjoy a kid-friendly haunted house, dancing, games, snacks, door prizes, and more. Meet real SWAT Team members and firefighters. Wear kid-friendly costumes and purchase a photo keepsake. For an early bird discount, preregister before the event at cityofcarrollton.com/ monstermash G’hosted by the Carrollton Police Officers’ Association. Sorry, no dads or daughters allowed.
Halloween Critter Hunt & Downtown Delights (formerly Ghost Town), Oct. 26, 4-7 p.m., Downtown Carrollton – Participate in a week-long scavenger hunt and trick-or-treating along the shops, ending on Saturday with a FREE showing of Monster House (2006), PG, at sunset.
Books for Treats, Oct. 31, 10 a.m.8 p.m., All Ages, Hebron & Josey Library – Wear a Halloween costume and trick or treat for a free book while supplies last.
• October 5: CPR/AED Training
• October 18: Genealogy Lock-In (registration required)
• October 26: Coffee With a Cop @ Parks Coffee Roastery & Cafe
For more information and a complete list of upcoming events and programs, visit the link below.
