2024 June Newsletter

EF-2 TORNADO, TEMPLE, TX

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!

TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Exploring the treasures of the public library

PUBLIC

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.

In the wake of the EF-2 and EF-1 tornadoes that struck our beloved city, I am heartened and humbled by the strength and resilience our community has shown. This natural disaster tested us, but it did not break us. Instead, it has brought out the very best in the people of Temple, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.

First and foremost, I want to extend my deepest sympathies to those who have been directly affected by the tornado. The damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure is significant, but please know that the city is here to support you through the recovery process.

We are a strong, united community, and we will rebuild together.

I want to recognize the incredible efforts of our city departments during this challenging time. Our first responders, including the Temple Fire & Rescue and Temple Police Department, acted with remarkable speed and professionalism, ensuring the safety of our residents and providing critical assistance where it was needed most. Their bravery and dedication are truly commendable.

The Public Works Department has been working tirelessly to clear debris and restore essential services. Their commitment to getting our city back on its feet is evident in their round-the-clock efforts. Additionally, our Parks and Recreation Department has been instrumental in setting up an emergency shelter and providing necessary supplies and support to displaced families

Our city staff has coordinated seamlessly with local and state agencies to ensure a swift and effective response. The collaboration between government bodies, non-profit organizations, and volunteers has been extraordinary It is this spirit of cooperation and community that makes Temple a remarkable place to live.

To our residents, your patience, solidarity, and willingness to help one another during this crisis have been truly inspiring Whether you have opened your homes to neighbors, donated supplies, or simply offered a word of encouragement, your actions have made a significant difference.

As we move forward, please stay informed about recovery efforts through our official city social media channels as well as templetx.gov/weather.

We are committed to keeping you updated and to providing the resources and support needed to rebuild and recover Together, we will emerge from this stronger and more resilient.

Thank you for embodying the spirit of “Temple Strong.” It is an honor to serve as your City Manager, and I am confident that, united, we will overcome this challenge and build an even stronger community.

Brynn Myers

FEMA Individual Assistance Declaration

FEMA has officially issued an Individual Assistance Declaration for Bell County.

Individuals who sustained damage and losses due to the recent storm can learn more about eligibility and requirements for receiving assistance by visiting templetx.gov/fema. Those who meet the eligibility criteria and wish to apply for assistance can do so by completing the online application process available under the “Apply for Assistance” section of the webpage.

All questions regarding the application process should be directed to FEMA.

For any other questions or assistance, please visit templetx.gov/weather.

TEMPLE STRONG

During a time of crisis, the Temple community came together to help one another, rebuild together, and support each other.

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!

Lorraine Ave and Tower Rd

Waterline Extension

InApril2024,approximately3,860 linearfeetofnew16”ductileiron waterlineswereputintoservicewith thecompletionoftheLorraineAvenue toTowerRoadNewWaterline Extensionproject.Thiswaterlineties intoanexistingwaterlineonLorraine AvenueatPandaDriveandextends norththrougheasementstoTower Road.Fromthere,itcontinueswest andcrossesunderSoutheastHK DodgenLoop363towestright-of-way ofwhereitconnectstoanother existingwaterline Thiswaterline extensioncompletesaloopwith connectionsateachendprovidingdual directionsupply,systemflexibility,and enhancessupplycapacityinthe876 pressureplaneasrecommendedinthe 2019WaterandWastewaterMaster Plan.

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.

Good Neighbor Program

East Downs Clean-Up Event

The City of Temple is seeking volunteers who are willing and able to help Temple’s elderly and disabled with regular lawn care needs and other minor home improvement projects. Sign up to be a good neighbor or to receive help from a good neighbor at templetx.gov/goodneighbor

Join us on June 29th from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. to help us clean up the East Downs Neighborhood District! Activities will include trash pickup and other revitalization efforts. You can sign up to volunteer at templetx.gov/volunteer or meet us at 1875 N 14th St, Temple, TX. We hope to see you there!

Temple Community Treasures Photography Gallery Event

Join us to view the submitted pieces of the 6th Annual Temple Community Treasures

Photography Contest and 3rd Annual Painting Contest. Mark your calendars to view the exhibit:

July 1st – August 30th: Bell County Museum

September 3rd – October 31st: Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum

This event is open to the public.

Lunch at the Airport

Wednesday, June 26

Join us for Lunch at the Airport at the Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport!

Activities Include:

Airplane Rides (Tickets can be purchased at the event- Children must be 5 years or older and minors must be accompanied by an adult)

Flight School Information

Aircraft Tours

Stop by from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and purchase a delicious meal from Mama Lama, then stick around to enjoy a fun afternoon at the airport! Indoor seating is available This event is open to the public.

Fireworks - Yard Signs Available

Fireworks are illegal in the City of Temple but popping fireworks can be very disruptive to your neighbors. Help inform your neighbors they are breaking the law by grabbing a free yard sign from one of our pick-up locations.

We have signs for being a good neighbor, pets, and veterans! Signs will be available to pick up starting June 12th.

Sign Pick Up Locations

• City Hall, 2 N Main St.

• Municipal Court/UBO, 401 N 3rd St.

• Heart to Home Animal Adoption Center, 620 Mama Dog Circle

TheCityofTemplewillbehostingaJuly 4thFireworksShowatCrossroadsPark. ThiseventisFREEandalegalfireworks show!

Theeventkicksoffat4p.m.withlive music,localvendors,andfamilyfun. Fireworksbeginat9:30pm

Hopetoseeyouthere!

Grant Public Meetings/Hearings

The City of Temple announces its upcoming public meeting to review the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER).

The City of Temple receives funding from the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on an annual basis from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. This program supports activities to develop and maintain viable urban communities by providing decent housing and suitable living environments as well as expanding economic opportunities for residents.

The City is required to submit a Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) at the conclusion of each program year. Residents’ input and participation is requested as the City reviews the 2024/25 activities.

The CAPER is available for review at Temple Public Library, located at 100 West Adams Avenue City Secretary Office, located at 2 N Main Street, Suite 103 Online at templetx.gov/cdbg.

Public comments will be accepted from June 2 to July 8, 2024.

Community members are encouraged to bring their family, friends, and neighbors and help the City evaluate impacts from the previous program year.

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.

June First

Friday

Join us downtown for First Friday, June 7, and enjoy amazing drinks, food, and specials!

Check out our full list of downtown happenings at bit.ly/3vAXira.

Temple Ticket

Who Let the Dogs Out?

From one enthusiastic pup to another, if you're getting your leash and human ready for an adventure, Temple's the place to wag your tail in excitement! This city is a dog paradise, stuffed with delicious treats, thrilling parks, and snuggly spots to curl up with your favorite human. Dive nose-first into this special edition of the Temple Ticket and sniff out all the paw-some places that'll make your tail wag and make your trip un-fur-gettable! Check it out at bit.ly/TTdogs

@LIZZIEHILL PLUSPUPS

The DayTripper visits Temple!

Don’t miss the season 14 finale as Chet and crew visit Temple, TX!

The episode aired on PBS in Austin on May 30, 2024, at 8 p.m. and will air again on Saturday, June 1, at 10:00 a.m.

The episode will also be available on YouTube on June 3.

Viewers will be able to witness all the fantastic things Temple offers, including its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and hospitable locals.

Visit, discovertemple.com/templechetlist for more information!

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

Family Summer Passport

Be sure to grab your Family Summer Passport to visit and explore Bell Counties participating local museums and libraries. Children, ages 3-12, are eligible to receive a stamp for each library or museum visited during Summer 2024. Visit, discovertemple.com/familysummerpassport for more information!

Beat the Heat Family Day

Saturday, June 1

Join us for Beat the Heat: Travel the World Family Day on June 1 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Let's cool off with some summer fun indoors! Learn about some of the most scenic places worldwide. There will be free crafts and activities.

Yosemite People

June 4, 2024 – August 17, 2024

At Yosemite National Park, more than five million annual visitors are supported by thousands of local rangers, workers, and volunteers. Through Yosemite People, a new traveling exhibit, the complex and nuanced relationships between people and Yosemite’s natural wonders come to life. Photographs from award-winning artist Jonas Kulikauskas – who brings his street photography sensibilities to the wilderness – reveal crowds clamoring to take the perfect selfie with Half Dome in the background and families cooling off in Tenaya Creek, while servers prep for diners at the Ahwahnee Hotel and rangers patrol the expansive Park. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit discovertemple.com/rrhm

Yosemite People is a traveling exhibition from Exhibit Envoy and photographer Jonas Kulikauskas.

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.

Lions Junction Water Park

Season kicks off June 1st!

The offcial Season kicks off on June 1, immersing you in a world of aquatic fun that runs through August 11. As the summer vibe continues, weekends become even more refreshing with our Weekends Only schedule starting on August 12. Make a splash and create unforgettable memories as you ride the waves of exhilarating water attractions during our fantastic season at Lions Junction Water Park!

For pricing, hours of operation, and much more information visit lionsjunction.com

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 |

Coffee with a Cop Kiddo Card Event

Join us for Coffee with a Cop on Saturday, June 15th, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Black Rifle Coffee Company, located at 111 N General Bruce Drive! It's a fantastic opportunity to meet police officers with the Temple Police Department and enjoy a delicious coffee with great conversations. We hope to see you there!

The Temple Police Department will also have a Kiddo Card booth during the Coffee with a Cop event on Saturday, June 15. Kiddo Cards are child identification cards that parents can keep on them. In the event the child is separated from their family, the parent or guardian can give the card to an officer who will then take a picture of it and send it out to all officers working that day.

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.

Upcoming Events & Programs

Youth Chess Club

Get ready to embark on a chess-tastic journey with the Temple Chess Club! Join our squad of enthusiastic volunteers who are armed with a passion for pawns, a love for knights, and a knack for cunning strategies!

Ages 6 - 18

Financial Wellness: Lunch & Learn

Sign up for an exciting six-month Lunch & Learn series on financial literacy in partnership with PNC Bank and Heart of Texas Goodwill Industries. Explore banking, budgeting, retirement, and other financial basics. Registration is required at bit.ly/TPLAdultRegistration

Painting Party with Suzanna

Here’s an opportunity for you let out your inner artist with Painting with Suzanna! Registration is required, so reserve your spot today by visiting bit.ly/TPLAdultRegistration

Communications Skills

In this workshop, provided by Partners Resource Network, participants will learn the three components of communication verbal, nonverbal, and paraverbal.

Circus Chickendog

Circus Chickendog's show is legendary for bringing out smiles! Come see Darren and all of his rescued furry (and feathered) friends for a fun-filled hour of juggling, tons of dog tricks, and so much more!

29

Self-Care Summer

At this event, you have a chance to relax while creating individual self-care kits –including frothy bath-bombs and relaxing candles. Register online at bit.ly/TPLAdultRegistration

Summer Reading Kick Off Party

Join us from 1 to 3 p.m. on June 1 as we kick off our 2024 Summer Reading Program with scavenger hunts, a bounce house, train rides from the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, Kiddo Cards from Temple PD, oversized games, and giveaways! While you are here, be sure to sign up for this year’s Summer Reading program for your chance to win fantastic prizes! For all ages.

Crafterpalooza

Drop in the Temple Public Library for our 1st Annual Crafterpalooza on June 8, 2024!! We are giving you the chance to peruse ALL our craft supplies and the freedom to explore your creative spirit in any direction you choose! Need inspiration? We'll have inspo pieces too! This event will be held on the 2nd floor of the library.

Sock Monkey Circus

Monkey around with Honey Goodenough and her magical, miniature circus. Join us for an aweinspiring show featuring marionettes who juggle, dance, and swing on a flying trapeze! This event will be held on the 3rd floor of the library.

Prepare to be captivated by the educational and motivational tricks and illusions of Oscar Muñoz and be amused by his wildly funny jokes The event will be held on the 3rd floor of the library.

Oscar Muñoz

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.

June 16th – 22nd is Waste and Recycling Workers Appreciation Week. The City of Temple Solid Waste Division has 72 positions to ensure the over 89,000 residents, plus the growing number of businesses, have a clean and environmentally sustainable community to call home. In the first six months of FY24, the Solid Waste staff have driven over 282,000 miles, removed over 57,388 tons of debris, and, with only four Customer Service Representatives, have taken over 14,500 phone calls.

The Solid Waste Division operates eight residential garbage routes, five residential recycling routes, six commercial front-load routes, and nine roll-off routes. They also provide brush and bulk item pickup to all residential customers using 6 brush trucks.

The work they do is very labor intensive. They work almost every holiday. They work in the rain, shine, hot, and cold. The phones do not stop ringing and the bins do not stop getting full, and every time the Solid Waste Division shows up. Next time you see them collecting, give them a wave. Help us share and show appreciation for this group of men and women who help keep Temple a place we love to call home.

Thank you service professionals!

June is Automotive Service Professionals Month. Your expertise and hard work keep our city's fleet running smoothly, ensuring the safety and reliability of the vehicles that serve our community. Your commitment to excellence and tireless efforts do not go unnoticed. Thank you for your invaluable contributions and for keeping Temple moving forward!

GARBAGE & RECYCLING

Collection Schedule

Storm Collection & Brush Updates

The City of Temple has contracted D&J Enterprises to assist in brush collection. Meanwhile, the City is running regular scheduled garbage and bulk collections, there may be delays due to the current volume. Please visit templetx.gov/solidwaste for routes and collection updates and information.

Permanent Closure of Recycling Drop off Center

Due to the excessive amount of illegal dumping, the Drop-Off Recycle Center, located at 3015 Bullseye Lane is now permanently closed. Residents can use the Solid Waste Complex Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. to drop off their materials. The accepted materials include everything that was allowed at the drop-off center, including oil, grease, food waste, plastic bags, electronics, tires (for a fee), and the document shredding service.

Recycling Tips

BeattheLines

Dropofffoodwaste,latexpaint,shred, motor/cookingoil,antifreeze,andelectronicsfor free(tiresforafee)attheSolidWasteComplex MondaythroughFridayfrom7a.m.-4:30p.m. Youdon’thavetogetinlinefortheannual eventstodropoffthoseitems,unlessyoujust reallylikethelines.

Pleasevisittempletx.gov/recyclingtofinda listofaccepteditems.

Water Conservation

While we’ve gotten a lot of rain and the lakes are full, summer is quickly approaching. Please irrigate responsibly on your designated watering day

To reduce water loss due to evaporation, water before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m. for maximum lawn absorption.

For more information and updates, please visit templetx.gov/waterconservation or reach out to the Public Works Department at 254 298 5611

Citizensarerequestedto:

Practicewaterconservationand minimizewaterusefornon-essential purposes.

Voluntarilylimittheirrigationof landscapedareastotwodaysperweek (asassignedbystreetaddressnumber) andtoirrigatelandscapesonlybefore 10:00a.m.orafter8:00p.m.on designatedwateringdays,unlessif wateringbyhand-heldmeans.

Sundays&Thursdaysforwater customerswithastreetaddressending inanevennumber(0/2/4/6/8)

Saturdays&Wednesdaysforwater customerswithastreetaddressending inanoddnumber(1/3/5/7/9)

TEMPLE TALK: In Case You Missed It

Central Texas Airfest

The Central Texas AirFest was a resounding success, kicking off on Friday, May 17, with an impressive drone show and a lively concert featuring Jon Wolfe and special guest Carson Jeffrey. The festivities continued Saturday and Sunday with a series of thrilling aerial performances from various teams, including Twisted Texan Airshows and the NextGen Eagles Aerobatics Team. Each day saw enthusiastic crowds enjoying the diverse air displays.