Branch Review
CITY OF FARMERS BRANCH, TEXAS
New Fees Effective this Month
TRASH AND CARD-PROCESSING FEES TO OFFSET RISING COSTS
For decades, Farmers Branch residents have enjoyed trash collection and bins at no additional cost, thanks to the City’s ownership of the Camelot Landfill in Lewisville; however, the landfill is expected to reach capacity by 2046, and the City must plan accordingly. The rates below were approved by City Council to support the future closure and post-closure costs of the landfill.
• Monthly fee of $5 per single-family residence.
• Senior, age 65 and older, and disabled residents can apply for a reduced rate of $2.50. For more information, and to apply, visit farmersbranchtx.gov/ trashfee
Also beginning this month, a 2.5% fee will be applied to all credit and debit card transactions processed for utility bill payments. To avoid the fee, you can make payments by cash or check, or by setting up an automatic monthly transfer from your bank account.
DRIVE-UP BILL PAY KIOSK NOW OPEN
UTILITY BILL PAYMENT LOCATION IS NOW AUTOMATED
The City’s new payment kiosk, located on the west side of the City Hall parking lot, is available 24 hours a day and posts payments instantly to your account.
To use the new kiosk, follow these four simple steps:
1. Select your preferred language.
2. Pull up your account by service address or account number, or by scanning your bill.
3. Enter the amount you want to pay.
4. Insert your payment. The kiosk accepts cash, check, and credit/debit cards. (Money orders and cashier’s checks are not accepted.)
You will instantly receive proof of payment via print, email, or text.
New AI Tool
CONNECT TO THE CITY ANYTIME WITH BRANCHBOT
The City’s new AI tool, BranchBot, allows you to ask a question, submit a service request, and quickly find answers to questions. Visit farmersbranchtx.gov and look for the virtual assistant in the bottom, right corner of your screen.
You can also chat with BranchBot by texting ‘Hello’ to (888) 411-FBTX.
MAY 3, 2025 ELECTION
CANDIDATE FILING DEADLINE
Candidate filing for the May 3, 2025 general election for Districts 1 and 4 will begin on January 15 and end on February 14. Learn more at farmersbranchtx.com/elections.
closed
Barney Wood Bark Park is open
No garbage / recycling collection
Dutch Village Park Playground
COMPLETE THE SURVEY BY DECEMBER 29
Dutch Village Park, located on Old North Road, was a complete loss due to a fire earlier this year, and we now have the opportunity to create a new space that fulfills the needs of the community. While Parks & Rec leadership has developed some preliminary renderings, we still need feedback to ensure the new playground meets the expectations of all residents. Please take a moment to provide your input by scanning the QR code.
Learning Fun
MAD SCIENCE: FIRE & ICE
Wednesday, January 15 | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. | Manske Library | Free
Join us for this interactive experience with Mad Science of DFW. We’ll conduct experiments and discover the chemistry behind vibrant fireworks and chilling dry ice.
GIRL SCOUT WORKSHOP: BAKING BASICS 101
Monday, January 20 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Historical Park $20 per Girl Scout; includes a patch
This hands-on workshop will introduce the principles of baking, including kitchen tools, measurements, food safety and nutrition, as handmade treats are prepared and enjoyed. The workshop is recommended for Daisy to Junior Girl Scouts. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.
GIRL SCOUT WORKSHOP: USING YOUR VOICE
Monday, January 20 | 1 – 3 p.m. | Historical Park | $20 per Girl Scout; includes badge or patch
From speaking up for what you believe in to helping get out the vote, there are many ways our voices can be heard! In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Inauguration Day, this workshop will celebrate the ways we can use our voice to make a difference in our community and the world around us. Activities include exploring and discussing the theme, a craft, SWAP, and a snack.
The workshop is recommended for Daisy to Junior Girl Scouts. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required.
During Bulk Pickup Week, January 6-10, the Green Grabber will pick up bulk items such as furniture, large appliances, and other items that cannot be placed in a garbage bag. For more information, visit farmersbranchtx.gov/brushbulky.
Holiday Collection Schedule
New Year’s Day: The only route that will be impacted is west of I-35. Wednesday garbage collection (recycling is on Saturday) will move to Thursday. All other services will remain the same.
Emergency Assistance
Do you or anyone you know need assistance during times of an emergency event? The State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) program provides emergency management and first responders with information about the needs of residents in their community. The program is intended for people with disabilities or functional needs, those with limited mobility or communication barriers, and anyone who requires medical or personal care assistance.
To register, visit farmersbranchtx.gov/STEAR or the Fire Administration Building, 13333 Hutton Dr.
Garage Conversion Amnesty
Have an unpermitted garage conversion? Now’s your chance to make it official without penalties. The City is offering a limited-time amnesty program for garage conversions that were completed before July 16, 2024.
To skip the fines and the need to rebuild your garage, just apply and pay a $100 fee. If your conversion is safe and passes inspection, you’re all set! Visit farmersbranchtx.gov or call 972-247-3131.
