February 2023
Branch Review C I T Y
O F
FA R M E R S
B R A N C H ,
T E X A S the official
city of farmers branch
NEWSLETTER
Get Ready for a New and Improved John F. Burke Nature Preserve! In June 2022, the City began a major renovation of the John F. Burke Nature Preserve. The upgrades will include an improved entryway, wildlife-viewing areas and rest points, new restrooms, a boardwalk at the pond overlook area and an enhanced decomposed granite pathway around the pond. Weather permitting, the nature preserve is expected to reopen in early 2023, with renovations fully completed this spring. The entire renovation project is funded by the voter-approved 2017 Proposition B bond proposal. Visit farmersbranchtx.gov/parksprojects for updates.
Serve on a Board or Commission All of the City’s boards and commissions play a critical role in public policy development, implementation, and review for the City Council. These groups serve an important function in molding decisions for our community, acting as the voice of the residents and providing stewardship of the City’s assets. All meetings are open to the public, and citizens are encouraged to attend and participate. Membership on each board and commission requires varying qualifications. A majority of members must be residents of Farmers Branch and a registered voter, with no outstanding debt or liens owed to the City, and must be able to pass a criminal background check. The members of the boards and commissions are appointed by the City Council. Applications are accepted during an annual recruitment period beginning in March and ending May 1, or as vacancies occur. Some boards have term limits, and most terms expire on June 30 of each year. Visit fbboards.com to learn more and view a list of vacancies.
Rec Center Update The renovation is nearly complete, and the second floor is expected to re-open in early February. Visit fbreccenter.com for re-opening details.
The John F. Burke Nature Preserve is located at 1111 Valley View Ln. The 104-acre tract of land is a partnership between the City of Farmers Branch, Valwood Improvement Authority and the North Texas Tollway Authority. The nature preserve is comprised of a unique ecosystem of upland forests and wetlands along the Elm Fork of the Trinity River, and natural surface trails provide access to experience this hidden jewel in the heart of the urban Metroplex.
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Free Day Pass to the Natatorium Try the City’s indoor pools for free! The Margaret Young Natatorium features a lap pool and a therapy pool with open swim times, clean locker rooms with showers and free WiFi. This coupon must be presented to staff and is valid for a one-time visit during the month of February. The pass does not include access to fitness classes, water therapy or swim lessons. For more information about the Natatorium and the City’s aquatics programs, visit fbh2o.com.
Upcoming Free Events BLIND DATE WITH A BOOK February 6-19 | Library
Let the Library choose your literary Valentine! Stop by our display, browse books color-coded by age group and take home a mystery date.
THE BRANCH CONNECTION VALENTINE SHOW
Friday, February 10 | 1 p.m. | The Branch Connection | Ages 50+ Valentine’s Day isn’t just for romantic love – it’s a time to celebrate all of the people in your life! Bring special someone, enjoy great entertainment and dine on delectable delights. To register, call 972-919-8740.
ADULT CRAFT NIGHT: HOT COCOA IN A JAR Wednesday, February 15 | 6:30 p.m. | Library
Make the perfect gift that’s easy to create and delicious to drink!
ROMANTIC REALITY TV TRIVIA NIGHT Wednesday, February 22 | 6 p.m. | Library
Reality TV junkies, it’s your time to shine! Escape to the world of dating and competition shows and let us know just how many you’ve seen!
Rec Leaders Needed. Apply now! Join our team! The Parks & Recreation Department is looking for enthusiastic, energetic and community-oriented team members. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license. Early morning, evening, and weekend shifts are available. To apply, visit fbtxcareers.com.
BULK PICKUP Week
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During Bulk Pickup Week, February 6-10, the Green Grabber will pick up bulk items such as furniture, large appliances, brush and other items that cannot be placed in a garbage bag. Please follow these guidelines: • The Green Grabber does not pick up glass or garbage bags. • Be sure items are not blocked by vehicles, trees, utility poles or other structures. Visit farmersbranchtx.gov/brushbulky for more information and tips. Bulk items may also be taken to the Citizen Collection Center, located at 1399 Valley View Ln. The center is open Thursday-Saturday from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 12:30 - 6 p.m. There is no cost to use the center, but you must provide proof of Farmers Branch residency.
holiday Craze March 13-17 | 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day Community Recreation Center | Ages 6-12 $95 for residents; $150 for non-residents Parks & Rec hosts a spring break camp full of fun, supervised activities such as organized games, crafts and field trips. Financial assistance is available to qualifying Farmers Branch families. Register at fbreccenter.com.
Don’t miss the dance!