Irving City Council Calls Special Election on City’s Future with DART
By a unanimous vote, the Irving City Council called a special election on the city’s future with Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) at the Nov. 6 council meeting. An item will be placed on the election ballot in May 2026 allowing Irving residents to determine whether the city should remain a member of DART or withdraw and pursue alternative transit options tailored to the community’s needs.
“We understand how important public transportation is for our community and are committed to ensuring Irving residents continue to have low-cost mobility opportunities,” said Irving Mayor Rick Stopfer. “We have been concerned with DART reducing service levels to our community over the years and according to the 2024 Irving Resident Satisfaction survey, only 1% of residents use DART or TRE service daily while investing more than $115 million annually into the system.”
Since joining DART in 1983, Irving residents have contributed an estimated $2 billion in sales tax revenue to support regional transit services.
City Council can add or remove ballot propositions up to 45 days prior to the May election date. For more information, visit IrvingTX.gov/Transit
Anyone can bring donations to the shelter directly and place them under the IAS pet’s Christmas tree. For those who are unable to bring donations directly to the shelter, items are available for purchase through the IACC Amazon Wish List found at IrvingTX.gov/Animal-Services
Home for the Holidays
IAS will participate in Home for the Holidays adoption event throughout December.
During the event, all adoptions are $50. All dogs and cats offered for adoption by IAS will be:
● Up-to-date on vaccinations, including rabies if the animal is more than three months of age
● Spayed or neutered
● Given a general dewormer and treated for fleas and ticks
● Microchipped and registered with 24PetWatch
● Heartworm tested (dogs over six months of age)
● FeLV / FIV tested (cats over four months of age)
● Given a sample bag of Science Diet food
IACC is located at 4140 Valley View Lane. For more information, visit IrvingTX.gov/Animal-Services or call (972) 721-2256.
Irving's Roll-Off Container Service
Irving Solid Waste Services (SWS) provides an affordable roll-off container rental service for residents and businesses handling large waste disposal projects. Ideal for renovations, clean-outs and construction debris, the service offers various container sizes with scheduled drop-off and pickup.
The container rental program helps to prevent illegal dumping and ensures that debris is properly managed, contributing to the overall aesthetic and environmental health of the city.
Containers are offered in 12-, 20- and 30-cubic yard sizes. The service includes a 14-day rental, which includes a final disposal upon return.
Suggested Roll-Off Uses
Residential (recommended 12- or 20-yard roll-off)
● Home remodeling projects
● Neighborhood clean up
● Large landscaping jobs
● Move in/move out
● Spring cleaning
● Residential demolition
Note: Residential service is available only at locations with front driveways.
Commercial (recommended 20- or 30-yard roll-off)
● Office remodel
● Store front build-out
● Commercial demolition
● Construction projects
Request Process
● Field staff review the location for safe placement
● Service contract sent via email
● Contract is signed and paid online
● Container scheduled for delivery (next business day or requested business day)
Ways to Request a Container
● Online: IrvingTX.gov/Roll-Off-Service
● Phone: (972) 721-2203
● In Person: Solid Waste Services Office, 140 N. Briery Road
For more information, call (972) 721-2232 or visit IrvingTX.gov/Roll-Off-Service
This Month at Irving Arts Center
TICKETED HOLIDAY PERFORMANCES
Dec. 6-7 | The Nutcracker Presented by Ballet Ensemble of Texas
Times Vary | $40-$50
Four performances will feature more than 200 dancers from Ballet Academy of Texas.
Dec. 11 & 27 | Candlelight: The Best of Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole
Presented by Fever Dallas
6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. | $27.50-$60.50
Experience the music of Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole under the glow of candlelight.
Dec. 13 | Home for the Holidays with the Three Redneck Tenors & Irving Chorale
Presented by Irving Symphony Orchestra (ISO)
7:30 p.m. | $36-$65
Get ready for holiday hi-jinks and humor with the Three Redneck Tenors, as well as holiday classics performed by the Irving Chorale, backed by the ISO and guest conductor Simon Gollo.
Dec. 13 | Holiday Classics with the Arts District Chorale
Presented by New Philharmonic Orchestra of Irving (NPOI)
7:30 p.m. | $10-20
Join NPOI for a concert featuring holiday favorites with the Arts District Chorale.
Dec. 14 | The Nutcracker Presented by Harlen House of Dance
2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. | $30-$45 Harlen House of Dance performs the timeless classic.
Dec. 16 | The Nutcracker presented by World Ballet Company
7 p.m. | $46.50-$97.50
Celebrate the season with The Nutcracker, a heartwarming ballet that brings dreams into reality for audiences of all ages.
Dec. 19 | Endless Summer: The Beach Boys Experience
Presented by Entertainment Series of Irving
7:30 p.m. | $37.50-$47.50
This incredible six-piece band will take you on a musical journey to the ’60s with the classic surf and hot rod sounds of the Beach Boys, as well as Christmas favorites.
Dec. 20 | Alissa Goretsky, Soprano
Presented by Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra (LCSO)
7:30 p.m. | $11.25-$50
Soprano Alissa Goretsky will be the featured artist and will feature LCSO’s annual Holiday Pops sing-along.
Dec. 26 | Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
Presented by Fever Dallas
6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. | $27.50-$61
Holiday favorites will be performed by a string quartet under a candlelight glow.
YOUTH & FAMILY PROGRAMMING
Dec. 4 | JumpstART Stories & Art: Merry Bookmas –Season’s Readings
10 a.m. | Free
Get into the spirit by reading some of our favorite holiday stories and making festive craft creations.
Dec. 6, 13 & 20 | Santa Saturdays
2 to 4 p.m. | Free
Drop in to make holiday crafts and visit with Santa.
Dec. 14 | Second Sunday Funday: The Art of the Holidays + Second Sunday Open Studio for Teens
1 to 4 p.m. | Free
Celebrate the season with creative arts and crafts activities for the whole family. Teens can participate in an open art studio held during the same time frame.
For more information about all activities planned and to register, visit IrvingArtsCenter.com
Irving Archives & Museum Events & Happenings
SPECIAL EXHIBITION
Two Photography Exhibitions by Jeanine Michna-Bales
Through Jan. 4 | Through Darkness to Light: Photographs Along the Underground Railroad
Photographer Jeanine Michna-Bales spent over a decade researching the Underground Railroad. Her exhibition features 48 photographs documenting a 2,000-mile route based on real sites, cities and places passed through by freedom-seekers.
Through Jan. 4 | Standing Together: Inez Milholland’s Final Campaign for Women’s Suffrage
IRVING ARCHIVES AND MUSEUM
Hours: Wednesday through Saturday
10 a.m. to
Tickets: Adults
This exhibition draws from Jeanine Michna-Bales’ book "Standing Together: Inez Milholland’s Final Campaign for Women’s Suffrage (2016–2020)." Through photographs, landscapes, reenactments and archival materials, she retraces Milholland’s grueling 1916 campaign across the American West, capturing the monumental effort that led to the 19th Amendment.
SECOND SATURDAYS
Enjoy Second Saturday with free admission and activities for everyone at the Irving Archives and Museum (IAM). Activities include artmaking, scavenger hunts, storytelling and other interactive experiences. All ages are welcome.
PURCHASE MUSTANG MULCH AT LANDFILL
Made from brush debris collected in Irving, Mustang Mulch is available at the Hunter Ferrell Landfill at 110 E. Hunter Ferrell Road.
The untreated mulch is available in 2-cubic-foot bags for $3 per bag or in bulk for $12 per cubicyard.
Visit IrvingTX.gov/Purchase-Mulch or call (972) 721-7322 for more information and to check availability.
CELEBRATE IRVING'S 122 ND BIRTHDAY, DEC. 19
Irving Archives and Museum is celebrating the City of Irving's birthday by preserving the past and celebrating the future. Enjoy a root beer float, commemorate the city’s birthday and support the efforts to restore the Big State Sign at this come-and-go event.
Friday, Dec. 19 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Irving Archives and Museum 801 W. Irving Blvd.
Mark off your list by shopping for gifts at the museum store with up to 30% off everything.
For more information, call (972) 721-3700 or visit IrvingArchivesandMuseum.com
IN THE GALLERIES
Free to view. Open Tuesday-Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. No advance reservation needed. Free guided tours are offered on the first Saturday and second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m.
Marilyn Henrion: 93 at 93, Selected Works Part II
Through Feb. 28 | Carpenter Gallery In celebration of her 93rd year, acclaimed textile artist Marilyn Henrion will be honored with a solo exhibition showcasing 93 of her original hand-quilted and mixed-media textile works.
33rd Annual Holiday Exhibition & Tree Decorating Competition
Dec. 6 to Jan. 3 | Main Gallery
A holiday tradition going on three decades returns to Irving Arts Center as the galleries are transformed into a wonderland of spectacularly decorated Christmas trees and student artwork. Finding inspiration in this year’s theme, “Holiday Movie Marathon,” various community groups and schools will put their decorated trees on display. Vote for your favorite in-person or through Irving Arts Center’s social channels.
Rafael López: Un Proceso Hermoso/A Beautiful Process
Dec. 6-March 7 | Dupree Lobby Gallery
Curated by the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, this exhibit features more than fifty pieces of artwork by awardwinning artist and children’s book illustrator, Rafael López. Known for his vibrant, evocative work, López blends traditional Mexican art with contemporary elements that often highlight cultural diversity, social justice and community.
SCAN ME
Transitioning, Jeanine Michna-Bales, 2019
Parks and Recreation Activities
Cimarron Park Recreation Center
201 Red River Trail, (972) 910-0702
● Dec. 19 | Gingerbread House Making
6:30 to 8:30 p.m. | All Ages | $10 per family
Create and decorate a festive gingerbread house using provided supplies. Pre-registration is required.
Georgia Farrow Recreation Center
530 W. Davis Drive, (972) 721-2519
● Dec. 19 | Gingerbread House Making
6:30 to 8:30 p.m. | All ages | $5 per kit
Create a tasty holiday masterpiece. Gingerbread kits provided. Register by Dec. 15.
Heritage Senior Center
200 S. Jefferson St., (972) 721-2496
● Dec. 9 | Gift Wrap Happy Hour
noon to 1:30 p.m. | Ages 50+ | IPAR Card
Wrap gifts and enjoy holiday music, refreshments and conversation. Supplies provided.
● Dec. 19 | Christmas Party
10 a.m. to noon | Ages 50+ | IPAR Card | Ballroom
A festive celebration featuring music, games, raffles and a congregate meal. Register by Dec. 15.
Heritage Senior Center Gift Shop
Shop handcrafted holiday décor, accessories, jewelry and gifts. Support local seniors and find something special for everyone on your list.
Lively Pointe Youth Center
909 N. O’Connor Road, (972) 721-8090
● Dec. 18 | Teen Christmas Party
6 to 7:30 p.m. | Ages 12–17 | IPAR Card
Celebrate the season with games, music, snacks and festive fun.
Mustang Park Recreation Center
2223 Kinwest Parkway, (972) 556-1334
● Dec. 12 | A Grinchmas Experience!
7 to 9 p.m. | Family Event | IPAR Card
Get ready for your heart to grow three sizes as this enchanting walk-through experience fills you with holiday spirit and the warmth of Whoville.
● Dec. 13 | Badminton Tournament
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Ages 18+ | $10 per team
Compete in a friendly doubles tournament for prizes and bragging rights.
Northwest Park Recreation Center
2800 Cheyenne St., (972) 721-2529
● Dec. 12 | Whoville Celebration
6 to 8:30 p.m. | Ages 5–11 | $5 per person
All children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress as your favorite Whoville character to play games, sing carols, make crafts and take a photo with the Grinch. Refreshments provided. Register by Wednesday, Dec. 3.
Register in-person at a local recreation center or online at IrvingTX.gov/IrvingRec
Aquatic Activities and Lifeguard Hiring
Dec. 6 | Splash the Halls
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | All Ages | Pool Admission
Heritage Aquatic Center (HAC)
Celebrate the holiday season poolside in a cheerful, family-friendly setting with festive games, holiday music, photos with Santa and a letter-writing station.
Dec. 13 | Lifeguard Recruitment Event
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Ages 15+ | Free | NLN
Complete lifeguard prerequisites, application and interview in one day. Candidates who pass prerequisites will be scheduled for certification and possible hiring.
Dec. 13 | Tales & Tides Noon to 12:45 p.m. | Ages 4–7 | Free North Lake Natatorium (NLN) Story time with a splash.
Dec. 20-22 | Lifeguard Certification Ages 15+ | Fee varies | NLN Red Cross blended-learning course combining online study and in-person skill sessions. Proof of eLearning completion required before class.
IrvingTX.gov/Aquatics
Library Programs and Activities
Book the Upcoming Year
Bring the 2025 Fully Booked Adult Reading Challenge to a close by Dec. 31 and earn prizes! Visit any library to submit a completed reading log. For more information and register, visit IrvingLibrary.READsquared.com
PROGRAMS
● Dec. 11 | Sleepy Hollow Society Book Club
6 p.m. | South Irving Library | Adults
December’s selection is “The Reformatory” by Tananarive Due, a blend of horror and historical fiction.
● Dec. 12 | Mug Shots: Pecan Pie
2 p.m. | West Irving Library | Adults
Create quick and delicious treats in fewer than 20 minutes.
● Dec. 13 | Tamales Tasting
2 p.m. | South Irving Library | Adults
Get a taste of the different types of tamales from Latin America.
● Dec. 13 | MiY Edible Education: Charcuterie Boards
2 p.m. | West Irving Library | Grades 9-12
Level up on kitchen skills by learning tips and tricks.
Register Dec. 1-10. Space is limited.
● Dec. 16 | Adult(ish) Academy
7 p.m. | West Irving Library | Adults
Learning cooking basics is a piece of cake at this adulting skills class.
● Jan. 2 | New Year’s Vision Board
4 p.m. | South Irving Library | Adults
The new year brings a new start! Create a collage vision board that provides motivation and inspiration for the next 12 months.
All Wrapped Up at Valley Ranch Library
A Winterfest favorite that helps make holiday preparations a little easier returns Thursday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. The Young Adult Action Council invites the community to bring up to five gifts to be wrapped free of charge. Items should already be in standard-size boxes. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate while teen volunteers add that festive touch to each gift. While supplies last.
Keep the Plot Moving
Twelve years and counting — the North Texas Teen Book Festival returns on March 7. More than 70 authors and 40 discussion panels are planned for this middle grade and young adult book festival, and volunteers ages 18 and above are essential for another successful event. Visit NorthTexasTeenBookFestival.com for details and to sign up.
Find out more about events, online services, MiY Zone requirements and updates by visiting the library’s website IrvingTX.gov/Library and social media.
| $2 | NLN Saturdays | Power H20 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. | Ages 18+ | $2 | NLN
Visit IrvingTX.gov/Aquatics to register for classes and additional information.
EXPERIENCE THE SEASON’S MAGIC AT WINTERFEST
Cozy up to holiday happenings at Irving Public Library’s annual Winterfest! All ages are invited to the festivities. Take a look at some of the plans included in this winter mix and for a complete guide visit IrvingTX.gov/Library
● Dec. 4 | Polymer Clay Charms
6 p.m. | Valley Ranch Library | Teens
● Dec. 6 | MiY Kids: 3Doodler Holiday Gifts 2:30 p.m. | West Irving Library | Kids Pick up a free ticket to the program at the library reference desk the day of the event. Space is limited.
● Dec. 9 | MiY Holiday Plushies
6:30 p.m. | South Irving Library | Adults
● Dec. 18 | Faux Stained Glass
6 p.m. | Valley Ranch Library | Teens
● Dec. 20 | Le Theatre de Marionette: The Peppermint Twist
10:30 a.m. | Valley Ranch Library | Kids
● Dec. 22 | Holiday Movie
2:30 p.m. | West Irving Library | Kids
● Dec. 23 | Choo Choo’s Magic Show 10:30 a.m. | South Irving Library | Kids
● Dec. 26 | Night Light Storytime
7 p.m. | West Irving Library | Kids
● Dec. 31 | Noon Year’s Eve 11:30 a.m. | South Irving Library | Kids
NTTBF is set to
March 2026
SCAN ME
CHRISTMAS TREE ROUNDUP RUNS
DEC. 26-JAN. 11
Irving residents can properly dispose of fresh-cut Christmas trees during the annual Christmas Tree Roundup from Dec. 26 to Jan. 11.
Drop-Off Locations
Residents can bring Christmas trees to any of the following locations during the collection dates:
● Cottonwood Creek Park: 4051 N. Story Road
● Hunter Ferrell Landfill: 110 E. Hunter Ferrell Road (Hours: 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., MondaySaturday; closed on city holidays)
● Las Colinas Service Center: 5964 Riverside Drive (southern section of the parking lot)
● Southwest Park: 2800 W. Shady Grove Road
Curbside Pickup Option
Alternatively, residents can place fresh-cut Christmas trees at the curb for weekly brush/bulky waste pickup. However, these curbside trees may not be recycled or mulched.
Guidelines Whether dropping off or placing trees at the curb, residents must:
● Remove all decorations, such as tree stands, lights, tinsel, nails and ornaments.
● Take off any plastic bags covering the tree.
NOW HIRING, JOIN TEAM CITY OF IRVING
The City of Irving is dedicated to attracting and retaining top talent. Through a comprehensive and structured employment process, Irving's Human Resources Department ensures all applicants are evaluated fairly and consistently, aligning with the city's commitment to equal opportunity and excellence in public service.
The Process: Select a Position + Apply
● Job Listings: All available positions are posted at IrvingTX.gov/jobs. Prospective candidates can browse current openings and access detailed job descriptions.
● Online Application: Interested individuals must create an account and submit an online employment application to be considered for a position.
● Application Screening: Applications are reviewed to ensure candidates meet the minimum qualifications specified in the job description.
The selection process typically takes a at least two to three weeks from the final closing date of the position, though it may take longer for positions that are open until filled.
For more information, call (972) 721-2696 or visit IrvingTX.gov/jobs
Irving City Hall Complex Renovations
Continue
In the May 2024 election, Irving residents voted “no” to issue bonds to construct a new Irving City Hall. Based on that vote, the city began the process of making updates to the current City Hall and expansion plans into a neighboring city-owned building.
Jack D. Huffman Building Expansion
In November 2025, the Irving City Council approved $5.6 million for the Jack D. Huffman Community Building second floor office build-out. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026.
Once renovations are complete, the Human Resources and Communications Departments, currently primarily located on the third and fourth floors of City Hall, will relocate to the Jack D. Huffman Community Building, 801 W. Irving Blvd. The Huffman build-out includes:
● 34 offices
● 3 conference rooms
● 3 copy areas
3 break rooms
2 training areas
A file room
Additionally, improvements will be made to the parking lots at the front and rear of the Huffman Building, potentially adding over 30 additional parking spaces for employees and visitors.
The renovations will maximize office space by uniting the Communications Department’s administrative team, currently split between two buildings, while also accommodating the needs of growing departments at the City Hall complex. Human Resources and Communications will share the building’s second floor with Parks and Recreation, which relocated to the Huffman Building in 2023 after the department outgrew its office space at City Hall.
Communications Departments moving over in early 2027.
City Hall Repairs + Improvements
In 2025, City Hall saw the completion of the following improvement projects:
● Full replacement and mechanical upgrades to all three City Hall elevators
● Structural repairs to the parking garage ground floor
● Renovations to offices on the east side of the first floor – now occupied by the Economic Development Department
● Replacement of first floor lobby furniture
Future City Hall improvements focus on renovations of the basement, third floor, fourth floor and restrooms, as well as additional parking garage repairs. Floor plans are expected to be presented to City Council in early 2026.
Visit IrvingTX.gov/IrvingInvests for more information on the city’s ongoing infrastructure initiatives.
The Downtown Irving Experience Continues with Holiday Events
The momentum isn’t slowing down in Downtown Irving, where recent events have brought new energy to Main Street — and more activities are still ahead this month.
In November, residents enjoyed a variety of communityfocused experiences, including a vendor market and yoga and candle-making workshops. Small Business Saturday drew a big crowd with more than 30 vendors, live music, face painting and the popular Local Small Business Market Passport challenge that encouraged visitors to explore both market booths and downtown shops.
the Holidays at Heritage Parade and Tree Lighting, the evening will feature a vendor market, live holiday performances, free hot chocolate (while supplies last) and a Santa letter station. The Main Street Plaza Popup will transform into a festive gift-wrapping station offering services for a fee.
As the year winds down, experience the charm, creativity and community spirit that continue to grow along Main Street.
For more details visit IrvingTX.gov/Experience-MainSt
Holiday Theft Prevention Tips
Enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind by following the Irving Police Department’s helpful tips for staying alert and aware while shopping for gifts.
Shopping
● Park in well-lit areas.
● Have car keys out and ready to enter your vehicle. Do not leave keys or fobs in vehicles.
● Always remove valuables from the car. If needed, lock valuables in the trunk.
● Always lock car doors and roll windows up.
● When dropping off purchases in the car, drive and park the vehicle in a different spot so others are not aware of any items being dropped off.
Package Deliveries
● Track packages for estimated arrival time.
● Ask a neighbor to pick up packages if you are not at home.
Gift Exchange/Pickup
● Buying a present on an online marketplace? Use IPD’s exchange safe zone to meet for package pickup at 305 N. O’Connor Road.
● Schedule delivery with a carrier and require a signature on deliveries.
While shopping this holiday season, drivers are reminded to be patient and plan ahead to allow for plenty of travel time.
If a resident sees a crime in progress, contact IPD. For emergencies call 9-1-1 and for non-emergencies call (972) 273-1010.
more information, visit IrvingTX.gov/Police
The season’s celebrations continue with the Holiday Event on Friday, Dec. 6 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Held alongside
The Huffman build-out project, funded through the General Fund Non-Bond CIP, is expected to be complete in December 2026, with the Human Resources and
SCAN ME