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Unveiling the vibrant heart of our city
Discover fun and adventure in Temple!
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Exploring the treasures of the public library
Learn about City services and stay informed of the latest Public Works updates
The Mayor and four City Councilmembers, as the elected representatives of the City of Temple, formulate public policy to address community needs and assure orderly development in the City. Council meetings are scheduled for the first and third Thursday of each month, at 5:00 p.m. at the Municipal Building located in the 2nd Floor Council Chambers preceded by the City Council Workshop located in the Forum Conference Room at 17 S 1st Street. All members of the community are encouraged to attend and participate.
Fellowresidents,
Temple’ssuccesshasalwaysbeenrootedinour abilitytopaireconomicgrowthwithlong-term vision.Boldchoicesbringthoughtfulgrowth,and thoughtfulgrowthbringsopportunitiesthat benefitallourresidents.However,formany, growthmeanschange,andchangecanbringfear.

Ibelievethatcomplacencyanduncertaintycan holdacommunityback.Inthemoment,itcanbe easytohesitatetomakethebolddecisions necessarytobuildastrongerfuture.Fortunately, thathasnotbeenmyexperienceserving alongsideyourCityCouncilandExecutiveStaff.I amproudtoworkwithagroupofpeoplewhoare committedtomakingtherightdecisions,notjust fortoday,butwiththefutureinmind.
Today,oneofthemostdiscussedtopicsisthe developmentofdatacentersinourcity.Withthat conversationhascomeinterestandconcern,both stemmingfromtheloveofourcommunitythat weallshare.AsMayor,Ibelieveitisimportantto provideclearanddirectresponsestothese concerns
WaterUsageandAvailability:
Therehasbeenconcernaboutwater consumption.Thetruthisthatolderdatacenters didrequirelargeamountsofwaterdueto outdatedcoolingsystems However,thefacilities beingproposedandbuiltinTemplewillusethe mostadvanced,closed-loopcoolingtechnology availabletoday.
Temple’slong-standingsurfacewaterrightsalong withourcontractedsuppliestotalover43,000 acre-feetperyear.TheCityofTempleusesan averageofapproximately18milliongallonsper
day, or about 20,000 acre-feet per year. Recent peak day usage has been around 33 million gallons.
The initial charge for the data center system is anticipated to be approximately 2 million gallons total, to be circulated for 10 to 12 years. That means the long-term operational demand of these facilities is a fraction of our overall system capacity. The intake of the 2 million gallon charge will be coordinated with the City so it does not interfere with fire protection, pressure, tank levels, or the integrity of the water system.
Separately, the data center requires a domestic daily water use. The average Temple home uses approximately 240 gallons a day, and a typical sit-down restaurant can use roughly 7,000 gallons per day or more. Domestic use by the data center is contractually limited to 4,000 gallons per day, and the City has the ability to require mechanical limiting devices to ensure compliance. This is monitored, structured, and enforceable by contract.
Texas has embraced electric deregulation and a market structure that places major decisions about transmission, generation, and regional capacity outside the control of cities. The electric grid is not controlled by the City. It is
governed through ERCOT, Oncor, and statelevel policy decisions. Investments in generation, transmission, and service are made at a regional and statewide level, not by the Temple City Council. That means projects built elsewhere in Texas, and certainly elsewhere in our region, still affect the broader grid and the investment decisions surrounding it. In other words, if a data center is built in another city in our region, or somewhere else in Texas that affects regional infrastructure planning, Temple does not avoid those impacts simply because the facility is located somewhere else.
One of the greatest benefits of bringing these properties into the city limits is control. Outside the city, developers have few restrictions; inside the city, they must comply with our local ordinances.
On noise, per the zoning ordinance, the developer is required to submit detailed mitigation plans prepared by acoustical engineers. These plans must be approved before construction, tested after completion, and enforced before operations begin. If a facility does not meet our standards, the City has enforcement options, including requiring additional mitigation, issuing citations, and pursuing further remedies if the issue is not resolved.
Transportation impacts are also being addressed. The developer is required to submit a traffic study prepared by a traffic engineer. If a Traffic Impact Analysis is needed, the developer must complete it. Additionally, they are responsible for both funding and constructing the transportation improvements approved by the city. No certificate of occupancy can be issued until those improvements are completed or financially guaranteed to the City's satisfaction.
The developer must comply with all applicable local, state and federal environmental laws, including Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Environmental Protection Agency requirements. The City does not have a separate local regulation requiring broad environmental permitting or an environmental impact study, except where the City is administering state-law requirements in areas such as storm water management.
Each Rowan data center project is expected to generate approximately $7 million in revenue for the City during the initial 10-year tax abatement period. For perspective, even that annual revenue is enough to fund the operations of 4 of the City's 8 fire stations, or a large portion of other core City services.
After the abatement period has expired, the annual contribution is projected to increase to around $12 million per data center project, almost double the revenue of the first 10 years.
These revenues support essential services: public safety, infrastructure, parks, and qualityof-life improvements, to name a few, without placing additional burden on local taxpayers. Beyond direct revenue, developments like these also strengthen Temple’s position as a competitive, forward-looking city in a global economy.
Temple's future has not been approached casually. We have worked to strengthen this city and prepare it for long-term growth. That same mindset is guiding us now. The decisions we make are the result of careful planning and a deep commitment to balancing growth with responsibility. Strong leadership requires looking beyond today’s concerns and preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. However, suggesting that public servants act for personal gain or are indifferent to our community is blatantly false. Such accusations undermine trust and distract from the vital work of moving our city forward.
Temple’s success has never been accidental. It has been built by leaders and citizens willing to engage, to ask hard questions, and ultimately to move forward with purpose and confidence. As policies are created by the State, we will use the local tools we have to make projects like this as beneficial to Temple as possible rather than simply absorbing impacts created by decisions made far beyond the city limits
We understand that some residents may still disagree with this approach. That is your right, and respectful disagreement is part of a healthy community. I encourage you to stay informed, stay engaged, and continue to be part of the conversation. To learn more please visit templetx.gov/datacenters. Together, we will ensure that Temple remains a community of choice; a community that honors its values while embracing its future.

Timothy A. Davis



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!
The City of Temple is moving forward with the next and final phase of improvements to Poison Oak Road, continuing efforts to enhance infrastructure in one of the community’s growing corridors Phase 2 will upgrade the roadway from Briar Hollow Drive to Old Waco Road and includes widening the road to four 13-foot lanes, improving drainage, adding a 10-foot-wide sidewalk along the north side, installing street lighting, and adding a 12-inch water line to support future growth and development.
Design for the project was completed in December 2025, and construction began in April, with work anticipated to continue through October 2027, weather permitting. This project builds on Phase 1 of the Poison Oak Road realignment, which improved the roadway from SH 317 to just past Charter Oak Elementary School in June 2024.
These improvements will help improve safety for drivers and pedestrians, and strengthen connectivity for residents traveling through this area of Temple. To learn more, watch our latest Let’s Talk Temple video!


Big things are happening in Temple as City Council continues to shape the future of our community. From key infrastructure projects to longterm planning initiatives, this section highlights important actions that impact residents and support a thriving, resilient city. Stay informed on how your local leaders are working to move Temple forward.
To learn more about council meetings, upcoming agendas, and City Council members, visit templetx.gov/citycouncil.
Council approved pavement preservation work as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Overlay Program to help extend roadway life and improve driving conditions across the city. As well as continued work on roadway projects, including Crestview / Knob Creek Trail, Blackland Road, and Little River Road, supporting future connectivity and mobility improvements.
Investments were made to support the Jones Park Improvements Project to continue park upgrades as well as approved Phase IV of the Downtown Decorative Lighting Program, adding accent lighting to continue enhancing the downtown space.
Council took action to approve the annual water supply agreement with the Brazos River Authority, helping secure water resources for the community.
Council approved a property purchase and development agreement for 503 N. General Bruce Drive along the I-35 corridor, supporting future redevelopment opportunities as well as approved the annexation and rezoning of more than 185 acres to support future industrial and employment growth opportunities.
The City of Temple extends its sincere appreciation to former District 3 Councilmember Karl Kuykendall for his service and dedication to the community. His time on the City Council was recognized at the April 16 City Council meeting, following his appointment in July 2025. During his tenure, he demonstrated a strong commitment to thoughtful leadership and to helping move Temple forward in a way that reflects the needs and values of its residents
A seventh-generation Texan and native of Lampasas, Karl has called Temple home for more than 40 years. During his tenure, he brought a deep-rooted connection to the region, along with a professional background in banking and a lifelong dedication to public service.
Before his service with the City of Temple, Karl served two terms on the Temple Independent School District Board of Trustees, two of those years as president, and helped establish the Temple Community Clinic as a founding director.
While serving on City Council, Karl remained actively engaged with the community, attending numerous local events and hosting a District 3 Town Hall in October 2025 to connect directly with residents and hear their perspectives.
Karl’s belief in giving back is evident through his decades of service, and his contributions have left a meaningful impact on the Temple community. He and his family, his wife, son, and grandchild, have long been part of the fabric of this city he proudly calls home
We thank Karl Kuykendall for his time, leadership, and continued commitment to serving others, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.


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.


Saturday, May 2 from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Election Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, with in-person voting available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the TISD Admin Building, located at 401 Santa Fe Way. This is your opportunity to participate in the 2026 local election and help shape the future of our community.
For more information on what’s on the ballot and voter resources, visit templetx.gov/election.

Wednesday, May 27 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Get ready for good food and high-flying fun! Oliver’s BBQ is serving up delicious eats at Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport on Wednesday, May 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Come out for lunch, check out static aircraft displays, and even take an airplane ride. It’s a great way to spend your afternoon with food, fun, and flight!
For more information, visit flytemple.com.


From May 17 to 23, we are proud to celebrate National Public Works Week and recognize the incredible people who keep Temple running strong. This year's theme Rooted in Service, Powered by Community acknowledges that the roots of service run deep in public works. It’s what has propelled public works innovations that have helped our communities evolve into places where people can lead lives of purpose and possibility. Some work, like building roads and bridges, is highly visible, while other public works contributions like maintaining water and sewer systems, are sometimes hidden from view. Together, these efforts form the foundation of thriving communities, reminding us that every project, seen or unseen, powers the connection between service and the people it supports.
Join us in thanking our Public Works employees for all they do to keep Temple safe, clean, and thriving!
HELP US PLAN THE FUTURE OF STATE HIGHWAY 317 BY TAKING AN ONLINE SURVEY
We’re planning for the future of the State Highway 317 corridor, and we want to hear from you!
This area is used every day by residents, businesses, and visitors. Whether you’re driving through, working nearby, or living in the area, your feedback will help guide future planning and improvements.
Take a few minutes to share your thoughts at templetx.gov/317
The survey closes on Monday, May 4.

Survey closes May 4

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.


Follow the Beat & Shop the Street at First Friday Live at The Yard (212 S Main St) on May 1! Come out from 5–8 p.m. for a fiesta-filled night featuring live performances by the Lake Belton High School Silver Strings (5–5:45 p.m.) and Mariachi Azul (6–8 p.m.) Enjoy delicious eats from local food trucks, grab a seat at community tables throughout The Yard, and take time to shop, explore, and support our downtown businesses. Bring your friends, follow the music, and soak in the downtown vibes; it’s a First Friday you won’t want to miss! For more information click HERE.

PHOTO BY KATHY WILSON

The Sandlot | May 28
Santa Fe Plaza | 301 W Ave A




Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Join us for a fun-filled celebration of all things trains on National Train Day! Admission is just $5 per person, and the day is packed with family-friendly activities everyone can enjoy.
Guests can look forward to:
Live music (vendor to be announced soon!)
Food and treats, including popcorn and snow cones
Hands-on crafts, featuring a train-decorating activity and a make-your-own bindle project for kids to take home
A dedicated play area with LEGO® and wooden train sets
Train rides for the whole family on our very own running train
Whether you are a longtime rail enthusiast or just looking for a memorable day out with the family, this event has something for everyone. Come celebrate the joy, history, and adventure of trains with us! Click HERE to purchase tickets


May 16 through September 7
The museum is proud to be part of Blue Star Museums, a national appreciation program to thank our military families for their service and share with them America’s cultural treasures.
Active military personnel and their families can visit the museum free of charge from May 16 (Armed Forces Day) through September 7 (Labor Day).
For more information visit templerrhm.org

Friday, May 15 from 6-8 p.m.
FREE
Santa Fe Depot
Join us for a presentation on Bill Wittliff’s photography by Carla Ellard, photography curator at The Wittliff Collections at Texas State University. This talk supports the exhibition Vaquero: Genesis of the Texas Cowboy, provided by Humanities Texas

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.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes in the water, our classes cater to all ages and skill levels. Our expert instructors will help you perfect your strokes and build confidence in and around the water.
With our two-week sessions held every Monday through Thursday, you'll be swimming like a pro in no time.
Don't wait, sign up today and join us as we make waves together! Register at templeparks.com/swimlessons
May is the perfect time to celebrate moms. Bring your little one to create a special Mother’s Day craft together. It’s a fun way to spend time side by side and make something meaningful to take home.
Date: Friday, May 8, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. –11:30 a.m.
Location: Gober Party House, 1516 West Ave. H
Fee: $9 per child aged 3-5
Register at templeparks.com/kidskraft

Parents’ Night Out returns May 22 at Wilson Park Recreation Center. Children ages 6–12 can enjoy an evening of games, arts and crafts, dinner, and friendly tournaments in a safe, supervised setting while parents take time to relax or make plans for the evening.
The program runs from 5 to 8:30 p m , and the cost is $16 per participant. Space is limited.
Register at templeparks.com/pno.


Summer leagues are right around the corner, and team registration is now open through Temple Parks and Recreation. Choose from kickball, softball, basketball, soccer, or cornhole, with several league options available. Teams must register together, as individual placement is not offered.
To learn more or register your team, visit templeparks.com/athletics.
Get ready for an unforgettable summer! Choose from a wide variety of camps, including fullday adventures, creative art camps, exciting cowboy camp, and so much more. There’s something for every child to enjoy.
If you're looking for your child's new favorite summer camp experience - look no further than your local Parks and Recreation Department.
Spots fill quickly, explore all camp options and register today at templeparks.com/camps

Summer Camps: Weekly sessions with outdoor fun, games, and creative projects. Mini Camps: Focus on sports, STEM, arts, or nature exploration.
Age Groups: 5–16 years old (programs tailored by age)
Locations: Recreation centers, parks, and local schools.
Cost: Varies by camp (depending on duration and type)
Flexible Options: Full-day, half-day, and drop-in programs available. Variety of Themes: From sports and science to arts and outdoor adventures.
Experienced Staff: CPR-certified and trained in child development.

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 |
Saturday, May 2 at 11 a.m.
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice
Stop by Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, located at 254 Green Hollow Dr., on Saturday, May 2 for a free Kiddo Card! The Temple Police Department will be on-site creating emergency ID cards for kids ages 2–15. Each card includes a photo, physical description, thumbprint, and emergency contact info, helping first responders reunite families faster in an emergency.
Friday, May 29 at 11 a.m. Santa Fe Plaza
Come enjoy a free lunch and connect with your community at Burgers with the Badge! This annual event, hosted by the Temple Police Department, invites residents to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with the officers who serve our city. Stop by the Santa Fe Plaza on Friday, May 29 starting at 11 a.m. for good food, great conversation, and a chance to build relationships with Temple PD Everyone is welcome, we hope to see you there!




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.


Join us on June 6 from 9 to 11 a.m. for a prehistoric-themed kickoff to summer reading the whole family can enjoy. Step into a morning of discovery, creativity, and hands-on fun as we launch this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Register the whole family, explore new books, and start earning chances to win door prizes. Kids and adults can take part in reading activities all June and July with fun rewards along the way.
Highlights include a fossil dig adventure show by Bestie Wonderland, bounce houses for active play, Dig Café treats, and a community geodes art project where everyone helps create a sparkling group display inspired by hidden treasures beneath the earth.
Don’t miss this chance to kick off summer reading with a fun, family-friendly event at the library.
Join us on June 20 from 9 to 9:45 a m for a welcoming, guided tour of the library. Whether you are new to Temple, just picked up your library card, or simply want to learn more, this session is a great way to get familiar with everything your library has to offer. We will meet on the first floor at the Circulation Desk, where a library guide will walk you through key spaces, services, and resources. You will learn how to personalize your library experience, explore collections and programs, and discover digital tools like eBooks, audiobooks, language learning, and more, all included with your library card This monthly tour is designed to help you feel comfortable, connected, and ready to make the most of your library. No registration is required.


Join us on May 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for an informative session on how to turn your backyard into a welcoming habitat for native birds. Certified Texas Master Naturalist Thomas Reeder will share practical tips on attracting and supporting local bird species, including how to provide the right food, fresh water, and seasonal care. You will also learn simple, meaningful ways to make a positive impact right at home and gain a better understanding of the role birds play in our local ecosystem Reeder is a member of the Native Plant Society of Texas and owner of Wild Birds Unlimited. This program is a great opportunity for anyone interested in nature, gardening, or supporting local wildlife. Register HERE.


First floor | Story Time Room | Ages 7-9
Join us on May 13 from 5-6 p.m. for a wildly imaginative, cooperative storytelling adventure designed just for ages 7 to 9
In this role-playing experience, kids will create characters and work together to build stories where anything can happen. Think time-traveling pirates, dinosaur-saving explorers, and superheroes riding unicorns into battle Each session is a new adventure filled with creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving.
No experience is needed. Just bring your imagination and get ready to help shape the story. No registration is required

Join us on May 21 at 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. for an informative session on how to turn your backyard into a welcoming habitat for native birds. Certified Texas Master Naturalist Thomas Reeder will share practical tips on attracting and supporting local bird species, including how to provide the right food, fresh water, and seasonal care You will also learn simple, meaningful ways to make a positive impact right at home and gain a better understanding of the role birds play in our local ecosystem. Reeder is a member of the Native Plant Society of Texas and owner of Wild Birds Unlimited. This program is a great opportunity for anyone interested in nature, gardening, or supporting local wildlife No registration is required.

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.
We understand how important it is to keep our neighborhoods clean and safe for everyone. That’s why the City of Temple is committed to continuing our Dumpster Drop program. We hope this initiative helps reduce illegal trash and tire dumping, making our community a better place for all of us!
What we provide:
A container is placed monthly in different parts of town
A trailer for the disposal of tires
Trash bags are available through Keep Temple Beautiful
Rakes, shovels, and other tools are available through the Temple Tool Library
This month will include one drop: May 15-18 in the Garden District at Jefferson Park, located at 2310 Monticello Rd
For more info, please visit templetx.gov/dumpsterdrop to learn more!
Recycling Tip: Don’t place any food or liquids in the recycle bin. Empty and scrape out any food or materials that are left in bottles, jars, and cans before placing in the recycling bin.


As spring and summer storms roll in, keeping storm drains clear is more important than ever
Stormwater runoff flows directly into our local waterways, and anything left in the streets like grass clippings, leaves, trash, or oil, can clog drains and pollute our water.
You can help by:
• Never dumping anything into a storm drain
• Cleaning up after your pets
• Reporting blocked or flooded drains
Let’s work together to reduce flooding and keep our stormwater systems flowing clean and clear.
Learn more at templetx.gov/stormwater.
The temperatures are rising, and conserving water is more important than ever. As we move through the hottest part of the year, please do your part to use water wisely
Here are a few simple ways to conserve:
Water lawns only twice a week before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
Run full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine
Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving
Repair any leaks as soon as possible
To learn more, visit templetx.gov/waterconservation.

Brush & bulky item collections is one of the many services helping keep Temple clean, safe, and running efficiently. In this episode of Behind The City, driver David Roope shows how items get collected and shares why the new call-in system matters.
Before David ever hits the road, there’s one important step: your pickup must be scheduled.
Quick reminders:
• Residents get one brush + one bulky pickup per month
• Set items out by 7 a.m. on your scheduled day
• Keep brush and bulky items separated and clear of obstacles
Since switching to the call-in system, crews have completed 14,600+ requests while staying 100% on schedule!


Want to contact the City of Temple? TTX Connect is designed to enhance communication and streamline service requests for residents. With a live chat feature, upgraded service request tool, call service, and a mobile app, getting assistance has never been easier!
Residents can chat with customer service agents Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., via ttxconnect.com, submit and track service requests, and access an interactive map of active issues. TTX Connect replaces Track Temple and offers improved tools for reporting concerns like missed garbage collection or broken traffic signals.
For phone assistance, dial 3-1-1 (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) or 254-298-5000 (other providers). Plus, download the TTX Connect app on the App Store or Google Play.



The Temple Chamber of Commerce’s State of the City, held April 8 at Temple College, was a well-attended and impactful event that brought together community members, business leaders, and local stakeholders. The City of Temple was proud to participate, with Mayor Tim Davis and City Manager Brynn Myers delivering presentations that highlighted the city’s progress, priorities, and vision for the future. The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with the community, reflect on recent accomplishments, and strengthen a shared commitment to moving Temple forward.

