Life Connected. Magazine March - April 2024

LIFE CONNECTED.

MARCH/APRIL 2024

TOUCH-A-TRUCK 2024

Gear up for a “wheelie” good time!

THE GATHERINGS THAT SHAPED THE EVENTS WE NOW LOVE A historical journey through the City’s festivals and celebrations

Joe

Kelly

Stephanie Webb, Senior Digital

Courtney Ford, Graphic Designer

Marc

Cassie

A

A NOTE FROM THE MAYOR

CELINA CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

a heritage of gathering

LIFE CONNECTED. IS THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CITY OF CELINA, and for generations, Life Connected. is simply how people have lived here in our hometown.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to our community, I’m glad you are taking a moment to read this edition so that you and your family can remain connected to the people and activities that are ramping up around town as we make our way towards the spring.

In the weeks and months ahead as we warm up from our winter season, you will see so many opportunities for you and your family to engage with neighbors and friends from around Celina. Our Friday Night Markets will begin, and they will usher in a spring and summer full of some of the most fun festivities we enjoy as a community.

I hope you will take a few moments to read our feature article that looks back on the history of events and gatherings in and around Celina. Seeing how so many of today’s celebrations are deeply rooted in and through events that have been enjoyed for decades is just another example of how Celina works tirelessly to honor our heritage and to prioritize the long-held tradition of citywide events and festivals to strengthen our community and to guard the wonderful heart and spirit of this incredible place.

Also in this edition of Life Connected. Magazine, you will find pages of information pertinent to keeping up with the changing landscape around us. Here, you can stay current on happenings around town, schedules of upcoming events, and everything else you will need to feel connected to our City.

I am so glad you can quickly see that this truly is the most exciting time to live, work, and raise a family in Celina, Texas. Please make the events and activities detailed on these pages a part of your personal plans for the coming months. Let’s enjoy what countless generations of Celina residents have modeled for us, and that is Life Connected.

I look forward to seeing you around town soon!

Yours,

Jay Pierce MAYOR PRO TEM, PLACE 2

Wendie Wigginton DEPUTY MAYOR PRO TEM, PLACE 4

Andy Hopkins PLACE 3

Philip Ferguson PLACE 1

Mindy Koehne

PLACE 5

Brandon Grumbles PLACE 6

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

The start of 2024 has been action-packed for our City Council, with new faces, exciting developments, and welldeserved recognitions. Here’s a recap of the key highlights from January and February. This is just a glimpse into the busy world of our City so stay tuned for further updates and developments as we move forward together!

The City of Celina is a “Home-Rule Municipality” governed by a Mayor and six City Council members who are elected by the residents. The City Council Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month at 5 PM inside City Council Chambers located at 112 N. Colorado St in Celina.

(1) Councilmember Brandon Grumbles was officially sworn in to the Celina City Council following a special election to finish the term of former Councilmember Tony Griggs. (2) The Marketing & Communications Department was honored at City Council for winning 19 awards, including six Best in Texas honors, at the 2023 Texas Festivals & Events Association Conference.

(3) The Parks & Recreation Department honored Carver Wilkins (Flag Football), Lindsey Aune (Volleyball), and Vini Pavesi (Soccer) as the Coaches of the Year for the fall season. In addition, Dotti Tingle was selected as the Parent of the Year for the 2023 fall youth sports season.

(4) Director of Organizational Leadership Shain Hunn, who recently retired, was honored by Mayor Ryan Tubbs and City

MORE ABOUT CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

If you’re curious about how to speak at City Council, check out the recent video, “How to Speak at Council,” as part of City of Celina’s In The Know video series. These videos will help keep our Celina residents informed and you guessed it...in the know! Full City Council photo albums are available online at lifeincelinatx.com/photo-albums Watch City Council recap videos on YouTube: @CityofCelinaTexas

Council members for his commitment to the City of Celina. (5)

The City recognized the graduates of the 2023 Celina Leadership Academy. These employees went through a nine-month course led by Director of Organizational Leadership Shain Hunn. (6) Assistant City Manager Kimberly Brawner provided City Council

with a summary of the 2024 Capital Improvement Projects for the City of Celina. (7) The Engineering Department was honored by Mayor Tubbs and the Celina City Council for National Engineering Week. (8) The Donkey & Equine Haven was selected as the nonprofit recipients of the ticket proceeds from the Celina Gift Tour.

All City Council Meeting agendas are posted at least 72 hours prior to the meeting in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act. Each meeting is livestreamed and recorded for those who cannot attend. Streaming information and agenda packets can be found online at celina-tx.gov/citycouncil.

RESIDENT RESOURCES

GET INVOLVED VOLUNTEER!

The City of Celina has a variety of volunteer opportunities and relies on and values its volunteers. Our volunteers are a valuable resource for our fast-growing city. One of the secret ingredients for the success of our events is our amazing volunteers! Volunteering offers a great way to get connected and give back to the community. Becoming a volunteer is easy! Simply complete the online form and we will share volunteer opportunities as they arise

City of Celina Volunteer & Community Opportunities

CITIZENS ACADEMIES

EVENTS

Friday Night Market

Touch-A-Truck

Movie Night on the Square

Celina Cajun Fest

Splash & Blast

National Night Out

Golf Tournament

Beware! of the Square

Christmas on the Square

Countdown to Christmas

Gift Tour

COMMUNITY

Ralph O’Dell Senior Center

Downtown

Citizens Government Academy

The Celina Citizens Government Academy is a four-month program highlighting a variety of departments, programs, and services and hears directly from a number of City departments. Participants will learn the basic roles and functions of municipal government through in-person simulations, presentations and activities. The Citizens Government Academy is a great way to learn more about the responsibilities of city staff and the role of Celina City Council.

Citizens Fire Academy

The Citizens Fire Academy provides an immense amount of information resulting in the class participant’s thorough understanding of the life of a firefighter. Informative presentations will include SCBA, Electricity Demonstration, Suppression roles and Fire Marshal Responsibilities. Participants have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of “hands on” activities that our Fire Department does on a daily basis, including forcible entry, nozzle operations, vehicle extrication, CPR Certification, aerial ladder climb, air transportation, and fire ground evolutions.

IRRIGATION EVALUATION PROGRAM

The City of Celina has partnered with M&M Irrigation and Illumination to provide a new Irrigation Evaluation Program. The program is open for online registration. The program is intended to help Celina water customers ensure their sprinkler systems are operating efficiently at no cost the resident. As a result, customers may notice reduced water consumption and lower residential water bills.

The Program Includes:

Recommendations to improve the performance of irrigation systems.

Scheduling of the controller to eliminate any unnecessary waste of water.

Water conservation and best practice suggestions.

City of Celina water utility customers are eligible to participate on a first-come, first-served basis, at no charge. To sign up, please visit:

mysprinklereval.com/?Celina

City of Celina Community Opportunities

Citizens Police Academy

The Citizens Police Academy is a community-relationship program that will help bridge the gap and strengthen the relationship between the Celina Police Department and the citizens they serve.

During this nine-week course, participants learn about topics ranging from criminal law and patrol tactics to Criminal Investigations. Some of the topics that are covered include Department Overview, Police Image and Personality, Legal/Law Class, Patrol Operations, DWI/Crash/Traffic, Narcotics/CID, Jail Tour, Special Response Team (SRT), Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) Training, Simulated Scenarios, and Live Scenarios. The group may also take a field trip to a local detention center in either Denton or Collin County.

After graduating from the Citizens Police Academy, Alumni become eligible to train for Volunteers in Policing (VIPs). This program allows volunteers to assist the Celia Police Department in multiple ways in the Office or out on patrol.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK: April 21-27

National Volunteer Week was established by Presidential proclamation in 1974, in order to inspire, recognize, and encourage people to engage and serve in the their communities. The City of Celina provides diverse volunteer opportunities for residents to make a valuable contribution to our community, while encouraging involvement in local government.

Residents have contributed their time and service to City departments, events, and committees, through various volunteer opportunities to enhance services provided to the City of Celina residents and extend capacity of city departments. Volunteers are a vital part of the City of Celina. The contributions of volunteers are not exclusively measured by time and dollars, but also by the commitment each volunteer has to working together to build a strong community.

GIS: RESIDENT DASHBOARD

Welcome to our interactive dashboard, designed to empower residents with valuable insights into City of Celina services. Explore the tutorial below to navigate and make the most of this user-friendly platform.

How to Navigate

FOLLOW THESE STEPS:

1

Once an address is entered, please select from the drop down options to identify which address you would like to select.

Once an address is selected, the map will automatically zoom to the searched address and display different information for that property such as: HOA contact information, ISD information, Code & Health Officer information , whether the property is in City Limits or Not, and Waste Collection Pick-Up Day.

Click on the layer button to see which layers are turned on and to see how they are represented on the map.

Finally, you can click on the basemap icon to switch between different basemaps.

Toggle Through Layers

This interactive dashboard allows residents to learn more about City of Celina services for your specific address. Toggle between layers (top right corner of map) for more:

• Jurisdictions

• Code Enforcement

• Environmental Health

• Electric

• Fiber

• Roads

• School Disctricts

• Subdivisions

• Ultimate Boundary

• Trash Pick Up

• Zip Codes

QR CORNER

MYCELINAH20

Monitor your water usage and set up alerts online. Set up your account today at MyCelinaH20.com

Scan to set up trash pick-up

Scan to view the Resident Dashboard

Scan to view Celina businesses or add your own! #CELINASUPPORTSCELINA

Celina Business Directory

The Celina Business Directory is a growing list of local businesses to help you find professional services, retail, and restaurants in Celina. This directory is a free resource from the Celina EDC in collaboration with Bludot.

CUSTOMIZABLE

Celina business directory listings are updated directly by business owners. Find current business information, photos, specials and more within each business profile.

SEARCH

Discover Celina businesses quickly using the search bar feature. Utilize the filter, area and category sections of the directory to narrow your search.

LOCAL

Businesses listed in the Celina Business Directory are exclusive to Celina. The Directory is the best way to keep up with all new businesses moving in.

MAP VIEW

Easily find business location through the map view.

CELINA’S DOWNTOWN SQUARE

SPRING ON THE SQUARE IS IN BLOOM!

Come on out to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day & more!

Celina’s Downtown Square continues to be the heart of the community, where we can gather and celebrate to live Life Connected. Check out what our downtown shops have going on this Spring! Take a look through the map below and check out each business online. Scan the QR code to the right for a full look at this map.

DOWNTOWN DRINKS TO GO!

Did you know our Downtown businesses offer drinks to go AND that you can walk around our Downtown Square with them in hand? For the full list of participating businesses and the public consumption limits, scan the QR code above.

HOW TO

HOW TO REVERSE ANGLE PARK

Reverse Angle Parking Downtown

HOW TO REVERSE ANGLE PARK

REVERSE ANGLE PARK

HOW TO REVERSE ANGLE PARK

The City has recently implemented reverse angle parking as part of the new traffic pattern for the Downtown Inner Loop. Please see the steps and benefits of reverse angle parking below. We appreciate your support in keeping our community safe!

PLUS: Check out the In the Know video, “Downtown Celina Reverse Parking.”

The City of Celina implemented reverse angle parking as part of its new traffic pattern for the Downtown Inner Loop. Please see the steps and benefits of reverse angle parking.

The City of Celina implemented reverse angle parking as part of its new traffic pattern for the Downtown Inner Loop. Please see the steps and benefits of reverse angle parking.

The City of Celina implemented reverse angle parking as part of its new traffic pattern for the Downtown Inner Loop. Please see the steps and benefits of reverse angle parking.

The City of Celina implemented reverse angle parking as part of its new traffic pattern for the Downtown Inner Loop. Please see the steps and benefits of reverse angle parking.

Local Business Programs

Business Connection Video Series

If you would like to participate in this free video series, please visit celinaedc.com/business/#business-connection

Celina Business Directory

Search our Celina business directory to find local shops, restaurants, and services. Visit celinaedc.com and navigate to Business Directory.

If you own a Celina business and don’t see it listed, please reach out to us at info@celinaedc.com.

Quarterly Business Meetings

All Celina businesses are welcome to attend our EDC Quarterly Business Meetings for updates on EDC Programming, City updates, and more! The next meeting will be April 11th at 9:00am in the City Council Chambers.

Shop Local Campaigns

The EDC provides continuous support to promote shopping local. Find these initiatives at facebook.com/celinaedc.

EDC Newsletter

Check out our Celina EDC Newsletter at celinaedc.com/resources.

celinaedc.com

The Gatherings That Shaped the Events We Now Love:

A historical journey through the City’s festivals and celebrations

Though the tagline for the City of Celina may have recently been changed to Life Connected., this concept is nothing new to residents and friends who have spent years in and around this community.

Since the turn of the 20th century, when J. Fred Smith first laid out Celina’s now historic Downtown Square, lives of generations of Celina families have connected around that beloved parcel of land that still beckons current residents and our guests to engage together at events and festivals each year.

Today, Celina residents are accustomed to a regular annual schedule of events that celebrate the heritage of our hometown while embracing the exciting days ahead. Crowned by the annual Celina Cajun Fest held on the Downtown Square each May, the events calendar for the City is one that allows folks here to live up to the city’s motto.

Yet, a look back in time reveals that these events and festivals stand on the broad shoulders of similar activities across Celina’s history that have always made this place a friendly and welcoming community for those who lived here or for those who just stopped on their way through town.

Among the many events that took place throughout our history, there are several notable and memorable ones that are important because they set the precedence for the gatherings that this community enjoys today. Old photographs and archived copies of the Celina Record newspaper tell the stories of these treasured and memorable celebrations that happened in the city, and most often, around the historic Downtown Square.

Like the celebrations of today, they brought out families, vendors, shop owners, city leaders, volunteers, farmers, residents of all ages, prizes, music and dancing, and most of all, the connecting of lives among those who for decades called this place their home. A quick overview of some of these festivals and events of yesteryear should allow everyone who enjoys Celina’s celebrations today to appreciate them all the more.

SATURDAY DRAWINGS IN CELINA

After revisiting Celina several years ago, Shirley Smith Clark penned her memories of one of her favorite childhood memories from her earliest days in her much-loved hometown. She recalled going to the Square two times a week as her family ventured downtown on Sundays for church services and on Saturdays to go shopping with her mother.

Her mom would carry eggs to town from their hens and would sell them to friends they met. With the money earned, they would have fun buying a few things for themselves, along with the items they needed for the week. But the most memorable part of each Saturday trip was well worth the wait, she remembered.

“I remembered we always stayed in town until late in the afternoon, waiting until four o’clock before we started home,” Smith Clark wrote. “No matter what time we arrived in town, we always stayed until after the ‘drawing.’” She shared that a man named Johnny May, decked out in a Stetson hat and khaki pants and nice shirt would hop into the back of a random pickup truck parked on the Square with a big wire tumbler holding the names of everyone in town.

Store owners or merchants from Celina would donate cash prizes or merchandise each week, and Mr. May would have a local child reach in and pull out a resident’s name that had been registered at the shoe shop. Because the drawing was a “must be present to win” affair, the Square would be packed waiting to see who was picked.

In the rare event someone wasn’t present, the prize was carried over to the next week, and the pot would grow along with the suspense. Longtime Celina residents still love remembering and do miss those drawings still today, and a few of them can tell some great stories about the time their names were called.

The wire basket sits today in the Celina Area Heritage Association Museum along with the memories of how shop owners around the Square worked hard to bring the community downtown to support their local businesses. Today’s Holiday Gift Tour and so many other gatherings that call people to Celina’s most sacred space owe a debt of gratitude to the vocal cords of Johnny May and a basket full of paper strips that made a difference for the winner and for the small businesses that were and still are the heart of this city.

LYNN D. STAMBAUGH FUN DAYS

Lynn Stambaugh was the president of a bank in Celina, but his contributions to this community transcended his Monday through Friday occupation. For generations of Celina residents, much more notable than the parkway that bears his name today was the annual Fall celebration that bore his name in Celina for a quarter of a century.

Ask anyone who grew up in Celina about the annual festival they remember the most, and they will undoubtedly tell you about the town’s annual Lynn D. Stambaugh Fun Day that everyone looked forward to as the place where the best memories were made.

Beginning in the late 1970s, Fun Day was an all-day event, much like today’s Cajun Festival, that filled up the Downtown Square with activities from morning until night. Though the schedule changed each year, different groups in the community would host different parts of the day.

The morning might begin, as it did in 1996, with a Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Celina Volunteer Fire Department. A fun run would follow that encouraged participation from local athletes and those just wanting to get some great exercise with friends. The Celina High School Band would usually perform. A “Little Miss Celina” contest would be held. The drill team and cheerleaders would perform between tractor pulls and ice cream contests.

A quartet might sing gospel favorites, and soloists would also take the stage throughout the day. A barbecue dinner would be enjoyed, and then an evening of music and street dancing would carry into the night.

Years later, the event names changed, and the crowds have grown a bit. The singers come in on buses and perform on a massive stage now. But the love of events like these that started decades ago and united families and friends for many years, still accomplishes the same purpose each time locals gather today.

HOLIDAYS IN CELINA

Just this past December, thousands gathered at the historic Downtown Square for Celina’s Christmas Tree Lighting. The Square magically turned into a winter wonderland as merchants and the City worked to prepare the launch of the holiday season for Celina residents and those who would come through town in the days and weeks to follow.

This event is always a town favorite that throngs of people anticipate for months in advance of the holidays. But did you know that this event is a longstanding Celina tradition?

when the Bobcat football team’s playoff game was scheduled on the same night as the event. Quickly recognizing the impact the game would have on attendance, the patriotic Christmas celebration was postponed until after the football team brought home a win, and only then could the holidays begin in Celina.

CELINA CENTENNIAL & U.S. BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

Although the original date of the first Christmas celebration around the Square is unknown, the Celina Record during World War II definitely mentions very similar celebrations with lights, trees, carolers, and visits from Santa.

Eventually the event transformed into Holidays in Celina, due to the fact it took place just before Thanksgiving and took on even more of the shape of the event familiar to residents today.

One such year that had two very memorable moments attached to the event was the 2001 Holidays in Celina. In the earliest aftermath of the terrorist attacks on America in September of that year, along with the traditional Christmas colors and fare, the square was decorated with American flags and red, white, and blue more reminiscent of a Fourth of July celebration.

Residents still recall the immense patriotic pride shared throughout this community in the aftermath of 9/11, and that event captured it beautifully. The evening featured Christmas songs by Celina choirs and the arrival of Santa on a Fire Department apparatus. However, the other memorable occurrence of that beloved celebration came

1976 was as patriotic and personal as any celebration Celina ever experienced. That year marked the 200th anniversary of America’s independence and the 100th anniversary of Celina’s founding. Bumper stickers were made and sold. The Bobcat cheerleaders painted a bicentennial mural on the side of a building welcoming people to the square. The paper reported that months of planning and preparation went into the celebration on the historic Downtown Square, “Community, business, and personal property improvement and beautification started, in some cases, nearly a year ago.” Further work was done to prepare the Square, including the planting of flowers that would be in full bloom by the celebration and adding a new aluminum flagpole.

On the day of the event, July 3, 1976, Mrs. Albert Perkins won the pie contest. Dona Thomas and Jason Ousley won the children’s costume contest. Linda Kinney and Ricky Carey took home the prize in the three-legged race.

The Celina Record noted of the day-long celebration, “Following the dedication of the new flagpole, crowds lining the Square were treated to cars, horses, pretty ladies, floats, and entertainment by the Shriners Band as the colorful parade moved through the square.”

As the day continued, Mrs. John Rothfus, Jr. won the quilt raffled by Fidelis Inter Se, and the Celina Jaycees won a tug-of war contest with the Volunteer Fire Department. The day concluded with a fiddling contest, a greased pig contest, and a raffle for a CB radio. Music and dancing finished the evening, as eventgoers still recall this as one of the most fun events hosted in the city. And like so many of these events people remember, this celebration preceded the Splash & Blast festivals Celina residents still enjoy today.

CELINA ISD HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL

One of the most anticipated events on the calendar each year took place around Halloween and was held at the school building that, today, serves as the administration building on Colorado Street. Inside the old gymnasium and on the yard of the school, the young and the young-at-heart would come early and stay late for an evening of old carnival classics.

Residents who still remember those fall festivals tell of the town grandmothers all baking fabulous cakes for the cake walk. Kids would bob for apples and pitch washers. Teachers and coaches would volunteer to work the games, and kids would stand in line at game after game hoping to win the prize.

One resident recalled a football coach working one of the games one night. The student eagerly waited his turn and paid his quarter to play the game. With great success, he was granted free tries for a bigger prize. When he had finished his turn, he had won the grand prize and remembers how awkward it was when the football coach presented him with a box of cigars for his accomplishment.

Also recollected by several old timers was the haunted house that was held on the stage in the old gym each year where the older students would work tirelessly to scare the lights out of younger students. All the while, parents would gather on the lawn where a band would be set up on a flatbed trailer and live music would close out the night

Today’s Beware! of the Square carries on several of these traditions and is a tip of the hat to the Halloween carnivals of yesteryear.

The list goes on and on of the deeply rooted tradition of festivals and citywide celebrations across Celina’s history. There were the old Trade Days that set the stage for Friday Night Markets. There were fun runs and ballon festivals and festivals in the park. All of these treasured pastimes shared a single purpose which was to bring together the residents and friends of Celina and to honor the friendships and love woven deeply through the fabric of this community.

Today, the festivals and citywide celebrations have grown a bit. They have a few more activities, bigger headliners on stage, and draw quite a few more people to the Square or the parks than their predecessors did.

However, their purpose remains the same—they honor a heritage and history of bringing people together to celebrate a shared and beloved culture, and they reflect the heart and hometown feel of this incomparable city.

DOWNTOWN PARKING GARAGE

The design of the City Hall Parking Garage will be completed in Summer 2024 with construction set to begin in Fall 2024. The City Hall Parking Garage is anticipated to be completed in Summer 2025.

LIBRARY & GOVERNMENT CENTER

The future site of the Government Center will be located on N. Colorado Street. The project is currently in design and will include a new Public Library, Park, City Hall Offices, Community Space, and Downtown Police location. The estimated cost is $70,000,000.

PARKS ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

The former Bobcat Fieldhouse will be renovated for the new Parks Administration Building. The design will be completed in the Summer 2024 with an anticipated construction date in the Fall 2024. The estimated cost of the project is $6,000,0000.

OUSLEY PARK TRAIL & STREAM RESTORATION

The design of the Ousley Park Trail & Stream Restoration is ongoing, and construction is set to begin in Fall 2024 with an anticipated completion date of Winter 2026.

WILSON CREEK PARK PHASE 1

The first phase of Wilson Creek Park will involve the construction of Roseland Parkway from Sunset Boulevard to the site of the future Elementary School. Construction is set to begin in Spring 2024 with an anticipated completion date of Phase 1 in Spring 2025.

OWNSBY PARKWAY (PRESTON RD TO COIT RD)

The Ownsby Parkway Reconstruction Project is currently underway with a four-lane concrete road and enhanced infrastructure and is anticipated to be completed in Winter 2024. The estimated cost of construction is $13,300,000.

CHOATE PARKWAY (KINSHIP PKWY TO ROSELAND PKWY)

Road expansion and infrastructure improvements for Choate Parkway from Roseland Parkway to Kinship Parkway are 60% designed. The estimated cost of the project is $13,200,000.

CELINA POLICE HEADQUARTERS

The Celina Police Headquarters will open in the Spring 2024, and the first phase of the project will include the main headquarters, community room, training room, office space, kitchen, and courtyard. The estimated cost of the project is $31,500,000.

FIRE STATION #3

Fire Station #3 is set to open in the Spring 2024 and will include five apparatus bays, community room, living, dining, and sleeping quarters, gym, and locker rooms. The estimated cost of the project is $14,200,000.

PARVIN ROAD (FM 1385 TO DALLAS NORTH TOLLWAY)

Asphalt improvements were made on Parvin Road from FM 1385 to Legacy Drive. The estimated cost of the Parvin Road asphalt improvement is $4,500,000.

NEW MEXICO DRIVE (ASH ST TO PECAN ST)

Road and infrastructure improvements on New Mexico Drive from Ash Street to Pecan Street are currently under design. The estimated cost of the project is $1,400,000.

COIT ROAD (VEST LANE TO CHOATE PKWY)

Road expansion and infrastructure improvements on Coit Road from Vest Lane to Choate Parkway is 90% designed. The estimated cost of the project is $11,500,000.

COIT ROAD (CHOATE PKWY TO COLLIN COUNTY OUTER LOOP)

Road expansion and infrastructure improvements on Coit Road from Choate Parkway to Collin County Outer Loop is 30% designed. The estimated cost of the project is $3,000,000.

OLD CELINA PARK PLAYGROUND

Construction is set to begin on the Old Celina Park Playground this spring with an anticipated opening in Summer 2025. The estimated cost of the project is $7,340,000.

LEGACY HILLS WATER RECLAMATION FACILITY

The Legacy Hills Wastewater Reclamation Facility will be a new 0.95-million gallon facility with construction set to completed in the Summer 2024. The estimated cost of the project is $38,700,000.

STAY CONNECTED

Did you know Celina has a vast online and social media presence? With 20 different social media channels and three websites, we’re committed to keeping our residents informed and entertained in all areas relating to life in Celina. Below, we break down all the pages that will keep you connected to our vibrant community.

WEBSITES

City of Celina Government Site:

Celina-TX.gov

City of Celina Events Pages:

LifeinCelinaTX.com

Celina Economic Development Corporation Site:

CelinaEDC.com

CityofCelina

Celina_Texas

CityofCelinaTX

CityofCelinaTexas

City of Celina Government Pages: City of Celina Events Pages:

LifeinCelinaTX

LifeinCelinaTX

Parks & Rec Pages: Library Pages:

CelinaTXParks

CelinaParksandRecreation

CelinaPublicLibrary

CelinaPublicLibrary

Downtown Square Pages:

DowntownCelina

CelinaMainStreet

Celina Economic Development Corporation Pages:

CelinaEDC

CelinaTXEDC

Celina-Texas-EDC

Celina Police Department Pages:

CelinaPolice

CelinaPoliceTX

Celina-Police-Department

Celina Fire Department Pages:

CelinaFireDept

CelinaFireDept

Celina Emergency Management Pages:

CelinaTXOEM

CelinaTXOEM

LIBRARY

SPRING BREAK FUN AT THE LIBRARY

In the heart of Celina’s Downtown Square, a gem awaits for book lovers and enthusiasts alike—the Celina Public Library. Boasting a collection of thousands of books, including Libby ebooks and audiobooks, this library stands as a haven for knowledge seekers, providing a plethora of literary options to cater to diverse tastes. With just a Texas library card, readers can embark on a journey through the vast world of literature, immersing themselves in stories that span genres and eras.

One of the distinctive features of Celina’s Public Library is its commitment to meeting the unique needs of our residents. Not only does the library offer an extensive selection, but it also welcomes book requests from the community. The dedicated staff ensures that even the most elusive titles find their way to the shelves, emphasizing a personalized and community-centric approach to library services.

The library’s commitment to accessibility is further highlighted by its seven-day-a-week operation, providing flexibility for busy schedules. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a family looking for quality time, the Celina Public Library is always ready to welcome you.

Beyond the shelves of books, the library is a vibrant hub of activity, ensuring that there’s always something exciting around the corner. March, for instance, brings a burst of energy with specially curated Spring Break activities. These events offer a perfect blend of education and entertainment, making the library a go-to destination for families during the school break.

As spring unfolds, the library gears up for its annual book sale, a bibliophile’s dream. While the exact date is yet to be determined, usually falling in April, this event promises book enthusiasts an opportunity to expand their personal collections at affordable prices.

Movie Monday

SPRING BREAK AT THE LIBRARY!

Monday, March 11 | All Day

Join us for a movie on loop in the library all day long. Check in to Facebook to see which movie is playing that day @CelinaPublicLibrary.

Toddler Tuesday

Tuesday, March 12 | 11 AM

Tie Dye Tuesday

Tuesday, March 12 | 1 - 3 PM

Baby Storytime

Wednesday, March 13 | 10:30 AM

Bring your little ones (up to 18 months) to our weekly Baby Storytime. An easy way to socialize your baby, help them recognize colors, and work on hand-eye coordination. We’ll work on gentle lap play, tickles, building memory, motion and vocabulary skills.

Gaming Tournaments

Wednesday, March 13 | 5:30 - 7:30 PM

Teens join us in the early evening for a break with their choice of board games or Super Smash Bros on our Game Cube. Only this time: it’s tournament style!

Lego Building Hour

Thursday, March 14 | 10:30 - 11:30 AM

Make a friend, make a scene, create a building, and have some fun!

Pokemon Trading Day

Thursday, March 14 | 3:30 - 5:30 PM

Are you interested in showing other trainers your collection, or even trading cards? Join us each week and bring your Pokemon cards.

Storytime

Friday, March 15 | 10:30 - 11:30 AM

Listen to stories, dance, play, and create a themed craft.

STORYBOOK TRAIL

Take a stroll through Old Celina Park and read through our newest Storybook Trail features!

ON THE SAME PAGE BOOK CLUB

“On the Same Page” is an adults-only Book Club that meets on the first Tuesday at 10 AM and first Thursday at 6:30 PM of the month in the Celina Public Library.

CELINA POLICE DEPARTMENT

SNAPSHOT REPORT

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Created Downtown Neighborhood Services Officer (NSO) to address the needs and services of our downtown business community, residents, and support our special events. Secured the ability to create a Mental Health Officer position to better serve our community when dealing with mental health challenges.

Volunteers in Policing

Initiated our VIPS, program where graduates of our Citizens Police Academy volunteer to augment our police services

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Successfully trained each officer in Active Law Enforcement Rapid Response training (ALERRT) to further our ability to address active attack situations.

Provided all officers and SROs with access to breaching tools, shields, and other equipment to respond to active shooter events. Hired a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (TCOLE) manager to enhance and expand our training capabilities. Focus on motorist safety by supporting the addition of two traffic officers to improve traffic safety, accident investigations, and commercial motor vehicle enforcement

Created Leading Effectively through Accountability and Development, (LEAD) a supervisor training course to prepare sergeants for the transition from officer to sergeant

The Celina Police Department works to protect 50,000 residents and provide public safety services while partnering with community members on programming

GOALS

Effectively prevent crime by taking a proactive approach by partnering with our community to detect and deter crime and disorder

Continue to enhance our capabilities by leveraging the opportunity to weave advanced technology into our techniques and procedures to protect our community.

Build partnerships with our community by recognizing and embracing a culture of working together; build a city based on public safety and a sense of community engagement

Focus on traffic safety by providing the “Three E’s” of traffic: Education, Engineering, and Enforcement.

CORE VALUES

Excellence

Community

Integrity

Service

2023 PROMOTIONS & HONORS

Cpl. Bryce Kennedy to Sergeant Ofc Jensen DeGroot to Corporal

Officer of the Quarter

1st Quarter Award - Michael Ganatos

2nd Quarter Award - Mark Goodell

3rd Quarter Award - Joseph Shires

4th Quarter Award - Shawna Quillin

ILEA SCHOOL OF POLICE SUPERVISION GRADUATES

Sgt. Cortnie Webb

ILEA TEXAS SERGEANT ACADEMY GRADUATES

TEXAS BEST PRACTICES

In 2023, the Celina Police Department achieved their third re-recognition for the Texas Police Chief’s Association Best Practices program. This program was established by law enforcement professionals across the state to develop professional standards for Texas law enforcement agencies. This program is completely voluntary so being a part of this program shows the dedication that the Celina Police Department has in maintaining its professionalism and standards for the citizens of Celina.

Sgt. Colten Raper

Sgt Josh Armstrong

Sgt Shane DiGeorge

CRIME UPDATE

Continue to readily adapt to increased calls for service (45% increase in CFS)

2022 Calls for service: 17,750

2023 Calls for Service: 25,892

Secured a conviction of Jeremy Harris, the serial killer who killed his last victim in Celina in November 2020. He was convicted and sentenced to a maximum of 160 years with no right to appeal.

Focus on traffic safety by reducing accidents and dangerous driving.

Improve our average response time to Priority 1 calls to less than 5 minutes.

The City of Celina was named 14th safest city in the State of Texas by Safewise; a jump of 16 places from 2022 to 2023.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

PHASE 1: OUTDOOR WARNING SIREN INSTALLATION

Last week, the Office of Emergency Management has worked with MCA (Mobile Communications America) on the installation of five outdoor warning sirens that are located at:

•

Fire Station #1

Fire Station #2

Fire Station #3

Celina Police Headquarters Buffalo Ridge

Monthly testing of the outdoor warning sirens will occur on the first Wednesday of the month at 12:00 PM (depending on weather conditions).

These outdoor sirens are designed to be heard outdoors only. We strongly recommend you have multiple ways of receiving information during an emergency. These sirens are not just tornado sirens and can be set off in the following events:

•

The National Weather Service issues a Tornado Warning anywhere in the City of Celina limits.

The National Weather Service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Warning and indicates the potential for destructive winds of 70 MPH or greater.

Observed hail of 1.5” in diameter or greater. Other emergencies as directed by the community’s designated public safety officials.

Check out the first video in the In The Know video series, “Outdoor Warning Sirens” for more!

STORM SEASON IS UPON US, LET’S TACOBOUT IT!

Some (or most) of us may not know the difference between a Watch and Warning when it comes to alerts during severe weather season. Lucky for us, Celina’s Office of Emergency Management is here to break it all down for us.

FIRE DEPARTMENT

ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET

We recently had the honor and pleasure of gathering in community to celebrate our local heroes: Celina Fire Department. It’s through their unwavering commitment and servant leadership that our residents are able to live and work in a safe community. Photos in order from left to right, top to bottom

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR: MICHAEL PARISH TYLER RIGSBY

OFFICER OF THE YEAR: CHRIS KINCAID

FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR: MATT HARRIS

DRIVER OF THE YEAR: CHANCE MALONE

PARAMEDIC OF THE YEAR: JOSH DAVENPORT EJ VEST

CHIEF’S AWARD: JACOB ROACH

CELINA’S FIRST RETIRED FIREFIGHTER

We are incredibly proud to honor Celina’s first retired firefighter, Patrick DiCredico. DiCredico began as a volunteer firefighter in 2009. A U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, DiCredico’s “passion for teaching and guiding others has had a profound impact on the department and the community as a whole,” Chief Metdker said. Congratulations, Patrick!

MARCH & EVENT CALENDAR

3/1 FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET | 6 - 9 PM

Celina’s Downtown Square

Friday Night Market is a great way to get outside, shop local, eat delicious food, and listen to live music – all held in Celina’s Downtown Square. Friday Night Market features a fantastic variety of vendors with something for everyone. Make sure to #ShopLocal and support our homemade, handmade, and homegrown vendors. Musical guest is Kaitlyn Sparks.

LIFEINCELINATX.COM/FNM

3/7: CITY COUNCIL MEETING | 5 PM

City Council Chambers

Celina City Council Meetings occur on the second Tuesday of every month at 5 PM in the City Council Chambers located at 112 N. Colorado St. City Council Meetings are livestreamed and recorded.

CELINA-TX.GOV/LIVESTREAM

3/23: WINE CRAWL | 5 - 9 PM

Celina’s Downtown Square

Join us for a delightful evening at the Celina Downtown Wine Crawl! Explore the charming streets of Downtown Celina, West Walnut Street, Celina, TX, as you indulge in 10 tastings of exquisite wines. Sip, savor, and socialize with fellow wine enthusiasts as you stroll through this lively event.

BIT.LY/CHAMBERWINECRAWL

3/30 THE BIG HUNT | 9 - 11 AM

Old Celina Park

Mark your calendars for The Big Hunt, an egg-cellent (and FREE!) community event for the whole family hosted by our friends at First Celina! Bring your Easter baskets, your biggest smiles, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this egg-straordinary community event!

BIT.LY/THEBIGHUNT

4/5 FRIDAY NIGHT MARKET | 6 - 9 PM

Celina’s Downtown Square

Friday Night Market is a great way to get outside, shop local, eat delicious food, and listen to live music – all held in Celina’s Downtown Square. Friday Night Market features a fantastic variety

APRIL

of vendors with something for everyone. Make sure to #ShopLocal and support our homemade, handmade, and homegrown vendors. Musical guest is Tristan Roberson.

LIFEINCELINATX.COM/FNM

4/6: CLEAN SWEEP | 8 AM - 12 PM

10165 CR 106, Celina

The City’s Public Works Department puts together three Clean Sweep events during the calendar year. The City will host a fall Clean Sweep where residents are invited to bring their bulk trash, household hazardous waste items, and more for disposal. This event is open to all Celina residents with proof of residency.

CELINA-TX.GOV/CLEANSWEEP

4/9: CITY COUNCIL MEETING | 5 PM

City Council Chambers

Celina City Council Meetings occur on the second Tuesday of every month at 5 PM in the City Council Chambers located at 112 N. Colorado St. City Council Meetings are livestreamed and recorded.

CELINA-TX.GOV/LIVESTREAM

4/13: TOUCH-A-TRUCK | 10 AM - 1 PM

Old Celina Park

Touch-A-Truck presented by Cook Children’s Health Care Systems is a “wheelie” exciting, family-fun event that gives attendees an opportunity to explore the ins and outs of the City equipment and tools that the staff uses to keep the City running. This free event offers kids of all ages an interactive and fun-learning experience.

LIFEINCELINATX.COM/TOUCHATRUCK

4/26: MOVIE NIGHT ON THE SQUARE | 6 - 9 PM

Celina’s Downtown Square

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a free movie on the Square presented by our friends at Sinacola! Elemental (PG) will be shown on the big screen at dark. Don’t miss out on the FREE popcorn. Come hungry, Celina’s Downtown shops and eateries will be open for you to grab candy or a bite to go. You are welcome to order take-out from any of our local restaurants & bars with on-site will be rotating food trucks as well.

LIFEINCELINATX.COM/MOVIENIGHT

We have a little something for everyone!

PLAY CONNECTED

PARKS & RECREATION GUIDE

The Parks & Recreation Department is excited to announce a new quarterly guide for our residents, Play Connected! Be on the lookout for the first official Play Connected quarterly guide that will be available online as well as pick-up locations for a limited print edition this spring. This quarterly guide will fill you in on what’s new and noteworthy with our Parks & Recreation Department, such as new fitness programming at the Ralph O’Dell Senior Center, Celina sports leagues, updates on various projects like the Parks Master Plan, coach and player spotlights, and more!

A Note from the Director

CODY WEBB

Celina Parks team is in full swing with scheduling games and practice for our youth baseball, softball, soccer, and 7-on-7 team starting this spring. We’ve partnered with Celina ISD to host games again at Moore Middle School and Bobcat Stadium behind the high school. Our recreation team has worked countless hours during the day to make this happen and get everyone the best customer service we can provide. Maintenance staff have reworked fields to maintain the best and safest playing surface in North Texas by cutting lips, power washing material back into the cut out, turf fertilizers, herbicides, and more.

Some of our proudest work to come forward with the help of our residents are the seven parks in the process of design:

1. Ralph O’Dell Senior Center – Opened in November of 2023

2. Ousley Park Stream – Design

3. Ousley Park – Final Concept

4. Wilson Creek – Started Design

5. Parks Administration Building – Design Concept

6. Bonfire Park – Concept

7. Earthman Park – Concept

We look forward to the expansion of our Parks & Recreation fields and look forward to seeing you out on the green.

RECREATION

PROGRAMMING

Parks & Recreation has opened its registration for its spring recreation classes.

Residents can sign-up for any of these classes at the following: bit.ly/CelinaRecReg

*All pricing is a one-time payment for the full program dates listed.

Barre Fitness with Brittany

Tuesday evenings, March 19 - April 9, 7:00 - 8:00 PM, $20, Ages 16 and Up

Utilizing a ballet barre and mat work, this class weaves together elements of ballet dance, Pilates, and lift weightlifting that tones your entire body, especially the legs, glutes, and core. Set to fun, upbeat music, this low-impact class is excellent for all levels of fitness.

Boot Camp Fitness

Thursday mornings, March 21 - April 11, 5:45 - 6:45 AM, $20, Ages 16 and Up

A fun, encouraging workout that alternates between high and low intensity exercises using timed intervals of free weights, body weight, plyometrics, cardio, abdominal strength, and balance work. Boost your metabolism and build muscle!

Drumba with Lucy

Tuesday evenings, March 19 - April 9, 6:00 - 7:00 PM, $20, Ages 16 and Up

Drumba is an exercise format that combines regular and weighted Drumba Stix with combinations of dance steps and exercise moves to create a fast-paced, intense cardio workout for the upper and lower body. It can be done seated or standing and is a fun cardiovascular workout for all ages and abilities!

HIIT with Brittany

Tuesday mornings, March 19 - April 9, 5:45 - 6:45 AM, $20, Ages 16 and Up

HIIT is a full body workout that uses short bursts of cardio and various strength exercises to tone your entire body. Designed for all fitness levels, this high energy class burns calories, builds muscle, and brings the fun with energetic music.

Intro to Cooking

Thursday, April 11, 5:45 - 7:15 PM, $25, Ages 12 and Up

We will offer different types of cooking programs for the community for youth and adults. This session will be Healthy Habits Meal Prep Class where attendees will learn to prep a full week or high-protein breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks! Perfect for those looking to eat healthier and save time!

Texas Kenpo Karate

(1) Monday/Wednesday evenings, March 18 - May 8, 6:207:00 PM, $60, Beginner (Ages 12 and Up)

(2) Monday/Wednesday evenings, March 18 - May 8, 5:456:15 PM, $60, Beginner (Ages 6 - 11)

Kenpo is more than just a self-defense system. It’s a practical and effective approach tailored for each student. While the system provides a structured foundation, it also encourages freedom of ideas and movement while fostering creativity.

Zumba with Brittany

Monday evenings, March 18 - April 8, 6:30 - 7:30 PM, $20, Ages 16 and Up

Zumba is a cardio-based class that combines Latin and international music with simple, repetitive dance moves to create a dynamic calorie-burning workout for people of all fitness levels and age groups.

OUSLEY PARK MASTER PLAN UPDATES

Curious about what is on the horizon for Celina Parks & Recreation? Make sure you visit their new Story Map that showcases all of the existing and future parks! This interactive map allows you to see where all of our current and future parks are planned to be with some awesome aerial footage. The Story Map highlights existing park amenities, touches on the vision for the future, and shares available recreational sports and activities. For more information, visit bit.ly/celinastorymap.

Proposed Plan –Artist Renderings