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OCTOBER 2026

TEMPLETX.GOV

SANTA FE COMMUNITY MARKET GRAND OPENING

TEMPLE - A PLACE YOU LOVE TO CALL HOME

Table of Contents 12 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

Your gateway to discovering everything you need to know

16 DOWNTOWN TEMPLE

Unveiling the vibrant heart of our city

21 PARKS & RECREATION

Discover fun and adventure in Temple

31 PUBLIC SAFETY:

FIRE AND POLICE Protecting and serving our community

35 TEMPLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Exploring the treasures of the public library

41 PUBLIC WORKS

Learn about City services and stay informed of the latest Public Works updates

FROM THE

Desk of the City Manager The City Manager’s Office oversees the daily operations of the City of Temple and carries out the goals and policies set by the City Council. The office coordinates City departments, manages the budget process, and helps guide planning for the City’s future.

Sammons Community Center Bond In May of 2024, our community experienced historic severe weather that caused damage throughout the City. In the wake of the damage, Sammons Community Center, originally built in 1921, was closed due to roofing concerns that were revealed by the storm’s winds.

Two independent engineering firms conducted assessments of the facility's roof and identified several structural concerns, including an overloaded roof, weak and poorly engaged roof connections, inadequate bracing, accumulated weight from decades of additions and structural deficiencies within portions of the original brick structure. After reviewing repair and replacement options, the City determined that replacement would reduce long-term costs associated with making repairs to the existing structure while allowing a new facility to be designed for current and future community programming. On November 3, Temple voters will consider Proposition A, which asks whether to authorize up to $15 million in general obligation bonds for the replacement of the Sammons Community Center. Why is this on the ballot? Because the proposed project would be funded through general obligation bonds, voter authorization is required. What would the bond fund? If approved, Proposition A would authorize the City to issue up to $15 million in general obligation bonds to replace the existing Sammons Community Center.

The proposed facility would continue to serve as a community center, with space designed to accommodate programs, activities and gatherings for residents of different ages and interests. Potential uses include opportunities for: Senior programs and activities Youth and family programming Recreation and wellness activities Classes and educational programs Community meetings and gatherings Social and special events Flexible programming that can change as community interests evolve What would it mean for the tax rate? If Proposition A is approved and the bonds are issued, the City estimates an impact of approximately $0.0125 per $100 of taxable value, beginning in Fiscal Year 2028 (Tax Year 2027). For a homestead receiving the City's 20% homestead exemption, the estimated maximum annual impact would be: $100,000 home value → approximately $10 per year $200,000 home value → approximately $20 per year $300,000 home value → approximately $30 per year

answer questions about Proposition A, the Sammons Community Center bond proposition on the November ballot. Residents can stop by to learn more about the proposed replacement community center, why the bond election was called, the estimated tax impact and what Proposition A would authorize. Upcoming community open houses include: Monday, October 5, at 6 p.m. | Frank W. Mayborn Civic Center & Convention Center, located at 3303 North 3rd Monday, October 19, at 6 p.m. | Gober Party House, located 1516 W Avenue H Tuesday, October 20, at 10 a.m. | Wilson Recreation Center, located at 2205 Curtis B Elliot Dr Election Information October 5: Last day to register to vote October 19 – 30: Early Voting October 23: Last day for a ballot-by-mail application to be received November 3: Election Day, Polls open 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Residents can learn more and find additional information about Proposition A at templetx.gov/bond26.

The actual impact would depend on a property's taxable value and the timing and amount of bonds issued. Open House Information The City will host multiple community open house opportunities to provide information and

Brynn Myers

SAMMONS COMMUNITY CENTER GO BOND ELECTION NOVEMBER 3, 2026

Why Replace Sammons? Professional assessments identified structural deficiencies in the existing facility. The City evaluated multiple options, including repairs and partial reconstruction. Based on the scope of work identified through those assessments, replacement of the facility is proposed to address the structural deficiencies.

What Are Voters Deciding? Temple voters will consider Proposition A, which asks whether the City may issue up to $15 million in general obligation bonds for Sammons Community Center and levy the taxes necessary to repay the bonds. IF APPROVED

Proposed Facility The conceptual plan was developed with input from Sammons staff and program instructors, recreation staff, and active community center users. The current concept includes: FLEXIBLE EVENT + PROGRAM SPACES

INDOOR + OUTDOOR GATHERING AREAS

IMPROVED ACCESSIBILITY

IMPROVED PARKING

UPDATED FITNESS SPACE

SAFE FACILITY

The project would move into additional design and development, followed by bidding/procurement and construction. IF NOT APPROVED

The City would not have voter authorization to issue the proposed bonds under Proposition A. Any future decisions regarding Sammons would be considered separately by Council.

LEARN MORE

Estimated Tax Impact Based on the City’s current projection, the bond would have an estimated property tax rate impact of $0.0125 per $100 of taxable value, beginning in FY 2028 (tax year 2027). That equals approximately: Home Value

Estimated Annual Impact

$100,000

$10/year

$200,000

$20/year

$300,000

$30/year

$400,000

$40/year

Amounts above assume a 20% homestead exemption. Homeowners age 65 and older who have applied for and received the Age 65 Freeze on their homestead will not pay additional City property taxes above their frozen amount as a result of this bond, except as allowed by law for certain improvements to the property.

Scan the QR code or visit:

templetx.gov/bond26 Bell County utilizes county-wide voting, which means that registered voters inside the City Limits of Temple may cast their ballots at any of the Early Voting polling sites or Election Day vote centers regardless of their home address.

Community Project Updates Work continues across the city on projects that will strengthen Temple today and prepare for tomorrow. Whether improving transportation, upgrading parks, or enhancing public infrastructure, these investments reflect our commitment to building a community that serves residents now and into the future.

Completed and Ongoing Projects North Outer Loop - Phase III

Ferguson Park

Phase III of the North Outer Loop project is now open to traffic, providing a new east-west connection and more direct access to Interstate 35 for commercial traffic from the North Industrial Park, local residents, and the traveling public. Phase III extends the North Outer Loop as a major arterial roadway with two lanes in each direction, a center median with landscaping, and pedestrian sidewalks. The project is designed to improve connectivity in the area. While the roadway is open to traffic, crews will continue completing minor construction activities following the opening. Motorists should remain attentive and follow posted traffic controls while work continues.

North Outer Loop

Construction at Ferguson Park has officially concluded. The updated park includes a new playground, accessible sidewalks, shaded play areas and a ninja-style fitness feature. The park's new, modern design brings a fresh play space to residents and families. Alongside the newly remodeled playground, the iconic rocket feature remains standing, bringing a sense of nostalgia for lifelong Temple residents. The grand reopening of Ferguson Park will be held Saturday, October 17 at 10 a.m. See page 25 for more event details.

Ferguson Park

24th Street Bridge

24th Street Bridge The 24th Street Bridge repair project continues moving forward. Concrete spalling was identified on the bridge in February 2025, prompting the City to stop ongoing bridge deck work and conduct additional engineering analysis. After evaluating the findings, repair options, costs, and impacts to the surrounding area, the City determined that repairing the existing bridge was the appropriate path forward to extend its useful life. On September 17, at their regularly scheduled meeting, Temple City Council approved a $409,000 professional services agreement with Bridgefarmer & Associates for the design, bidding and construction-phase services needed to repair the bridge. This action by City Council moves the project into the next phase of work needed to safely reopen the bridge. Next steps: December 2026: Repair design projected for completion January 2027: Construction contract award tentatively projected Approximately one year: Estimated construction duration

Hartrick Bluff Road The project is expected to begin in October. Improvements include widening Hartrick Bluff Road from Waters Dairy to FM 93 to a three-lane roadway section, drainage infrastructure, bridge over Fryer’s Creek, 8’ sidewalk, and upsizing an 8” waterline to a 12” diameter. FM 93 will be widened to include left hand turn lanes, and a traffic signal will be added at FM93 for a four-way signalized intersection. Traffic on Hartrick Bluff Road will be restricted to local traffic only during construction with timely notifications provided as construction proceeds onsite.

1st Street/Veterans Memorial Boulevard Work continues on Phase I of the reconstruction of 1st Street, including new drainage infrastructure, a new water line, roadway reconstruction and traffic signal improvements. Construction is anticipated to be completed April 2027.

Pea Ridge Road Construction South Pea Ridge Road is now open, with remaining median sidewalk and decorative concrete work planned for when school is out to minimize impacts in the area. Work continues on North Pea Ridge Road, with asphalt, striping and signage anticipated in mid-October and overall completion expected in November, followed by vegetation restoration and site cleanup.

City Council September Highlights

City Council continues to take action on priorities that shape Temple’s future. Here are some of the key decisions and initiatives from September. To learn more about City Council and view upcoming agendas and meetings, you may visit templetx.gov/citycouncil.

Supporting Future Growth

Data Center Development Requirements

Council approved amendments to the City’s Code of Ordinances, Chapter 38, requiring Utility Service Agreements for certain industrially zoned developments or Special Utility Projects. A resolution was also passed defining Special Utility Projects.

Amendments to the City’s Unified Development Code (UDC) regarding minimum development standards for new data centers, including requirements for the use of closed-loop cooling systems, buffering, traffic impact studies, light and sound mitigation, site orientation requirements and conditional use permits for standalone data centers.

These agreements help ensure that large-scale developments with significant utility needs are planned for appropriately and that the infrastructure and service requirements needed to support them are clearly identified before development moves forward.

Utility Service Agreements Council approved an agreement for each of the three Rowan project sites establishing requirements for the use of the City’s water and wastewater systems. Closed loop cooling is required, and initial charging waster must be staged and coordinated with the City. The Utility Service Agreements include water use limits which the City will monitor through advanced meters. If established limits are exceeded, the agreements provide enforcement mechanisms, including the ability to require installation of physical or automated limiting devices to restrict water use. The agreement does not allow the limit to be exceeded by paying a fee or fine.

These amendments to the UDC standardize the projectspecific requirements that data centers currently under development have been subject to through planned development ordinances, applying to future data center projects and requiring these future projects to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). All data centers remain subject to the City's zoning, engineering, utility, fire, building, and public review processes. Whether the data centers currently under development are subject to a planned development zoning ordinance, or prospective new data center proposals are required to obtain a CUP, the project is subject to enforceable development conditions and requirements such as noise, lighting, landscaping, buffering, traffic, and site design. The adopted amendments apply to future data center projects and require these projects to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to develop in light industrial and heavy industrial zoning districts.

City Council Districts Not sure what your Council District is? Visit our Resident Resource Map to type in your address and see your Council District and corresponding Councilmember.

Mayor

District 1

District 2

District 3

District 4

Tim Davis

Mayor Pro Tem Jessica Walker

Dr. Zoe Grant

Mike Emmons

Mike Pilkington

LET’S TALK TEMPLE COUNCIL DISTRICT THREE Ever wonder what makes your City Council district unique or what role your councilmember has? 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. In the latest episode of our Council District series, we’re exploring what makes District 3 unique with Councilmember Mike Emmons. From neighborhoods, parks and community spaces that define the area to the people who call it home! To learn more about District 3, connect with your councilmember, explore ways to get involved in your local government and sign up for City communications, visit templetx.gov.

Community Happenings

Our community plays an important role in making Temple a great place to live, work, and grow. Through volunteering, supporting local businesses, and participating in community events and initiatives, residents help strengthen connections and contribute to the city’s continued success.

templetx.gov/newsroom

Household Hazardous Waste Event October 24, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. | 2611 E Avenue H

It's time to get rid of all of those items that can't be disposed of in your residential garbage can! The City of Temple will host a free Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event to provide individuals the opportunity to safely dispose of any hazardous items they may have. At the event, attendees can dispose of a variety of items including chemicals, prescription drugs, electronics, flammables, paint, tires and more. This event will be a contactless drive-thru. Attendees are asked to remain in their vehicles. Any containers will not be returned and must be five gallons or less per container. Maximum 15 gallons per customer. For Tire Disposal: Residents can dispose of four tires up to 17” for free. For additional tires, prices are as follows (Prices double if rims are attached): Up to 17-inch rim tires are $5 per tire (first 4 free) 18-inch to 22.5-inch rim tires are $8 per tire Over 22.5-inch rim tires are $17 per tire Please note that motor oil, cooking oils and water-based paint can be dropped off at the Solid Waste Complex all year during business hours. For more information on this event and a full list of accepted items, visit templetx.gov/hhw.

Lunch at the Airport October 31 | 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport Grab lunch at the airport on Saturday, October 31, Halloween! Grab a bite to eat and enjoy the planes cruising by. Costumes are welcome and candy will be distributed!

Christmas Parade Applications Applications for the 2026 Christmas Parade are now open! This year’s theme is, “An 80s Christmas.” Showcase your creativity with festive displays, original designs, bright lighting and music. Applications close Tuesday, November 3, at 5 p.m. To submit an application, visit discovertemple.com/parade.

Save the Date: Veterans Day Ceremony The City of Temple will host its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Tuesday, November 10, at 11:30 in the Santa Fe Depot. The ceremony will feature remarks from city officials, military leaders, and special guests, who will express their gratitude for the sacrifices made by our service members.

Save the Date: Community Summit The City of Temple’s 4th annual Community Summit will be held Friday, November 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Santa Fe Plaza. Come connect with city staff, learn about programs, services, and events. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and endless activities! This is a free, family-friendly event. Learn more here.

Downtown Temple

Downtown Temple is an evolving gathering place that brings the community together. With local restaurants, unique shops, and events held throughout the year, it offers residents and visitors a variety of ways to connect, celebrate, and enjoy all that Temple has to offer.

discovertemple.com/downtown

First Friday Downtown Temple First Friday is back Downtown on October 2. We are celebrating First Friday with a block party on First Street for the 1-year anniversary of The Hive Beauty Lounge. Shop local, enjoy live music, grab a bite from your downtown

favorites, and spend the evening celebrating everything that makes our downtown community special. Feel the beat, shop the street and enjoy downtown. Learn more on the Discover Temple website.

Oktoberfest Down at The Yard October 17 | 5 - 10 p.m.

Grab your lederhosen – or just your appetite – Downtown Temple's Oktoberfest is back! Sip craft brews from local breweries, chow down on eats from Temple's favorite food trucks and dance the night away to live music all evening long. With festive activities for the whole crew, this is the perfect way to toast to fall with your friends, family and neighbors. Entertainment includes: 5-6 p.m. Rebecca Jane 6-10 p.m. Jerry Heisler 7-9 p.m. Photos with The Lederhosen Grinch Prost to good times in the heart of Downtown Temple! For more information, visit downtowntemple.com.

Trackside Treats

October 31 | 2 - 5 p.m. | Santa Fe Market Trail This beloved Temple tradition brings families together for an afternoon of safe, spook-tacular trick-or-treating. Dress up in your best costume and stroll the trail as local vendors hand out candy and treats. With food trucks, festive fun and plenty of Halloween spirit, it's the perfect way to kick off your Halloween celebrations! This year, we're starting earlier, so you can trick-or-treat and still have time to explore all that Downtown Temple has to offer afterward. Grab dinner, browse the shops or just soak in holiday vibes before heading home to trickor-treat in the neighborhood! Costumes are encouraged at this family-friendly event. See you on the trail! For more information, visit downtowntemple.com.

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

StitchPUNK

October 9, 2026 – January 16, 2027

Imagine an existence where you pull one string and reality unravels. Twenty-seven artists from the U.S., United Kingdom, France, and Canada have interpreted the riotous creativity and far-out fusions of punk (Steampunk, Biopunk, Atompunk and more) to tell their own distinctive stories using fabric as their medium. In their hands, texture, stitching, stuffing and more add a depth that cannot be conveyed through two-dimensional paintings or photographs. The dedication, skill and unique perspectives of these creators form a rich tapestry of human expression. StitchPUNK, the exhibition, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of sewing and the boundless possibilities it holds for artistic expression and social commentary.

Magic & Mischief

October 17, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Calling all witches, wizards and seasoned sorcerers! Step into a spellbinding world of magic and mischief inside the Santa Fe Depot. This immersive event will be full of charming crafts and fantastical fun for the whole family! Whether you’ve just discovered your magic or have been practicing for years, there’s something for every young caster to enjoy. Costumes are encouraged! This event is $10 per person. Register at templerrhm.org.

Parks & Recreation

Parks and Recreation plays an important role in building a strong community by providing parks, facilities, and programs for residents of all ages. Through recreational opportunities, community events, sports leagues, and activities, they create spaces for people to stay active, connect with others, and enjoy the outdoors.

templeparks.com

City of Temple Parks & Recreation Department Receives CAPRA Accreditation The City of Temple is proud to announce that the Parks & Recreation Department has been accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). CAPRA is part of the National Recreation and Park Association and is the only national accreditation of park and recreation agencies in the United States. The accreditation was made official at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia, PA, during a hearing on September 28. The Temple Parks & Recreation Department received the recognition at a ceremony on September 30. CAPRA accreditation demonstrates that each agency provides the highest level of service to its community. To become an accredited program, cities must complete the six-step accreditation process.

During this process, CAPRA evaluates 154 total standards: 36 Fundamental and 118 Non-Fundamental. Organizations being accredited for the first time must meet all 36 Fundamental requirements and 106 of the Non-Fundamental requirements. Many CAPRA accreditation standards rely on policies, procedures and accomplishments from other City departments, making collaboration across the organization an important part of achieving accreditation. Temple Parks & Recreation met all 36 Fundamental Standards and 112 out of 118 Non-Fundamental Standards This accreditation makes Temple Parks & Recreation part of 2.35% of accredited parks and recreation programs in the nation. Read the full media release here.

Applications Open for Tree for Me The City of Temple’s Tree for Me program gives Temple residents the opportunity to receive a free tree to plant at their home!

When completing the application, you’ll select your preferred tree variety. Tree varieties are subject to availability.

Applications for this year’s program are now open and available on a first-come, firstserved basis to the first 200 eligible applicants.

Additional pickup details and instructions will be provided to registered participants.

To participate, please be prepared to: Provide a photo of the front of your residence as part of this application. Provide proof of Temple residency with a Temple utility bill or valid driver’s license on the day of the event. Bring a vehicle that can safely accommodate and transport your tree on the day of the event.

Participants will pick up their tree at Doshier Tree Farm, located at 2515 E Avenue H, on Saturday, November 7, from 8 – 11 a.m. From there, take your tree home, plant it and enjoy! Learn more at templeparks.com/treeforme.

Doshier Tree Farm

Winter Cornhole Cornhole fun is not limited to backyard barbecues! Registration is now open for the 2026 adult winter league. Parks and Recreation is now offering doubles and singles divisions. Have fun, develop teamwork and sportsmanship through the winter cornhole league. If registering as a team, you must register as a full team. This league does not offer individual placement on teams. For more information, call 254-298-5589, or visit templeparks.com/cornhole.

Co-Ed Softball Looking for a less competitive softball league? Our co-ed-for-fun league is designed for the more amateur softball player and focuses more on the fun. The league offers an eight-game season with a single-elimination pre-season tournament. Games are played at A.J Mercer Complex on Sunday afternoons To participate, register your team by October 9. The season runs October 18 to December 6. Teams can register online, in person or over the phone by calling 254-298-5589.

Party in Pink Zumbathon October 10, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Summit Recreation Center 620 Fryers Creek Dr. Grab your pink gear and join us for the Party in Pink Zumbathon! This event will be held on the basketball courts outside The Summit, in honor of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The event is free to attend, but attendees are encouraged to help raise funds for Susan G. Komen. Join us for a fun morning of music, movement and community as we come together to raise awareness, show our support and help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. We’ll have raffles, door prizes and community fun! Registration is not required for this event.

Ferguson Park Grand Reopening Ceremony October 17 at 10 a.m. 1203 E Adams Ave. Join us for a grand reopening of Ferguson Park! The park has recently been renovated, with improvements including a new playground, accessible sidewalks, shaded play areas and a ninja-style fitness feature. Alongside the newly remodeled playground, the iconic rocket feature remains standing. In collaboration with the Ferguson Park Neighborhood Coalition, the ceremony will celebrate the park’s upgrades with a ribboncutting, food trucks and more. We hope to see you there!

Register for Rising Stars Basketball Clinic Registration is open for the Fall 2026 Rising Stars Youth Basketball Clinic! At this clinic, young athletes will have the opportunity to develop their basketball skills, build confidence, learn teamwork and have fun on the court. This includes the basics of warming up and stretching, ball handling, passing, dribbling, shooting and rebounding. Boys and girls ages 4-12 are eligible to participate. Register by October 23 to participate. Learn more and register here.

Halloween Splash Bash October 23, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sammons Indoor Pool 2220 A W. Avenue D Join us for an evening full of spooky splashes, Halloween-themed games, music and familyfriendly fun in a safe and exciting aquatic environment. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in costumes appropriate for swimming and water activities. All costumes must remain safe for aquatic participation and may not obstruct vision or movement while in the water. Halloween Splash Bash is designed for all ages and offers a unique way to enjoy Halloween beyond traditional trick-or-treating. Entry is $5 per person. It’s a hauntingly good time you won’t want to miss!

Boo Bash

October 30, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Gober Party House 1516 W Avenue H Spiders, bats, pumpkins and more! Scare up some fun while making spooky crafts, playing Halloween-themed games and enjoying festive snacks. Wear your Halloween costume and join the fun! This event is for children ages 3 to 5 and costs $9 per child. Register here.

Spooktacular Soiree October 30, 1 - 3 p.m. Gober Party House 1516 W Avenue H Ghouls, ghosts and giggles! Join us at this 18+ event for a spooktacular time. It’s a Halloween party including a costume contest, light refreshments and plenty of laughs. Costumes encouraged—fun guaranteed! This event is free with a Sammons Community Center Membership, but pre-registration is required. Register here.

Monster Mash Up October 31, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Summit Recreation Center 620 Fryers Creek Dr. Grab a partner and compete in this exciting Halloween-themed tournament led by our Pickleball Pro, George Olivencia. This mixed doubles tournament is for ages 16 and up, and costs $30 per person. Spots are limited, so register early! Get ready for a spooky, fun and competitive afternoon on the courts at The Summit! Register online to reserve your spot.

Save the Date: Holiday Craft Bazaar

November 7 | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Gober Party House 1516 W. Avenue H Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the City of Temple’s Holiday Craft Bazaar. Browse handmade, original items from local vendors and prepare for the holiday seaon. This event is free for shoppers. You don’t want to miss this!

16th Annual Carlson Law Firm Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot

November 26 | 8 a.m. | Pepper Creek Trail, located at 530 N. Kegley Rd. Ready to get your Turkey Trot on? Registration is open for the 16th Annual Carlson Law Firm Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot. The race will take place on Thursday, November 26 at Pepper Creek Trail, located at 530 N. Kegley Rd. Pre-registration is $30 per person. Participants who register by October 12 are guaranteed a Turkey Trot shirt. Pre-registration closes on November 15, and race day registration will be available for $40. Sign up now to reserve your spot and claim a shirt!

Apply to be a Lifeguard! The Aquatics Division is looking for dependable, safety-minded lifeguards to join our indoor pool team! This is a part-time position, up to 25 hours per week, with flexible scheduling. Lifeguards will help create a safe environment for our patrons by monitoring swimmers, checking pool equipment, and assisting with opening and closing duties. If you’re attentive, responsible and enjoy working around the pool, we’d love to have you on our team! For more information about this listing, visit templetx.gov/careers.

Public Safety

Our police and fire departments play a vital role in keeping the community safe. Through emergency response, public safety services, community outreach, and education efforts, first responders help protect residents, provide assistance during emergencies, and promote a strong sense of safety and security throughout Temple.

templetx.gov/police | templetx.gov/fire

October is National Fire Prevention Month October is National Fire Prevention Month, and Temple Fire & Rescue is encouraging the community to learn more about fire prevention and safety. Additionally, Fire Safety Day is October 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Temple Central Fire Station, located at 210 N 3rd St. Explore the fire station, check out the fire trucks, and enjoy games, activities and cool demos that make learning about fire safety fun for the whole family. This event is free to the public, and we can't wait to see you there!

Stay Safe Temple Are you prepared for an emergency? Residents can find preparedness resources on the Stay Safe Temple webpage, including flash flood information, emergency kit guidelines, severe weather information and more. Additionally, residents can sign up for Alert Temple, the City's emergency alert notification system. Emergency response starts with preparation.

COMMUNITY TALKS:

Sex Offender Registration Information Saturday, October 3 | 10 a.m. Gober Party House | 1516 W. Avenue H

Temple Police will host a free, educational presentation focused on sex offender awareness and registration requirements. This presentation will provide information on how the sex offender registration program works, the purpose of public registries, and how community members can access available resources. Attendees will learn about common misconceptions, safety tips for families, and the role law enforcement plays in monitoring compliance with registration laws. Community Talks is free and open to the public.

National Night Out

Tuesday, October 6 | 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Join us for an evening dedicated to building stronger partnerships between law enforcement and the community we proudly serve. National Night Out is an opportunity to meet your local officers, visit with neighbors, learn about crime prevention and enjoy a fun, family-friendly event. Learn more at templetx.gov/nno.

National Coffee with a Cop Day Wednesday, October 7 | 7 - 9 a.m. Black Rifle Coffee Company 111 N. General Bruce Dr

Join the Temple Police Department on October 7 at Black Rifle Coffee Company for National Coffee with a Cop Day! Stop by, grab a cup of coffee and spend some time getting to know the officers who serve our community. There is no agenda, just good coffee, conversation and an opportunity to connect. You don’t have to be a Temple resident – everyone is welcome. We hope to see you there!

Kiddo Cards

Friday, October 9 | 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Target 1404 Commerce Dr Join us for our upcoming Kiddo Card event on October 9 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Target, located at 1404 Commerce Drive. We’ll be offering free ID cards for children ages 2-15. Each card includes a current photo, name, address, date of birth, eye color, hair color, height, weight, thumbprint and emergency contact details. For more information, visit templetx.gov/kiddocards.

Temple Public Library

The public library is a place for learning, discovery, and community connection. Beyond books, the library provides valuable resources, programs, and opportunities that support education, personal growth, and community engagement. Join us at the Temple Public Library as we bring people together and inspire lifelong learning.

exploretpl.com

Gallery Night The Art of Collage October 2 | 4 - 5:30 p.m. First Floor | All ages

On Thursday, October 2, join us on the first floor for Gallery Night as we celebrate the creativity of our community. Gallery Night showcases art submitted by other Temple residents, and features works by a variety of age groups. Enjoy light snacks, sparkling grape juice and an evening of art and connection.

TPL Book Clubs

Looking for your next great read? Join a Temple Public Library book club! Book clubs are a great way to discover new books, share your thoughts and connect with fellow readers. Explore book club options and find meeting times at exploretpl.com/bookclubs.

Common Cents

Practical Wisdom for Everyday Money October 9 from 12 - 1 p.m. Third-Floor Board Room Make your lunch hour a power hour with Common Cents, the Library’s financial literacy Lunch & Learn series. This month, learn how credit scores and reports work, what those three digits mean and ways you can improve your credit. Bring your lunch, bring a friend and get practical tips to help you feel more confident about your finances. Bring your lunch and join us on October 9. Registration required. Register for this free event.

Scribblers in the Stacks: A Writers' Collective

October 14 | 5 - 7 p.m. Second Floor, Program Room | Ages 18 + Calling all writers! Whether you write poetry, fiction, memoir or are simply looking for inspiration, Scribblers in the Stacks offers a relaxed space to connect with fellow writers, share ideas and talk about the craft of writing. Join us for writing prompts, creative discussion and a chance to celebrate the writing process with others. This event is ages 18+ and is free to attend. Register for this free event.

Genealogy Live! October 16 | 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Third Floor, McLane Room Ages 18 +

Discover your roots, one record at a time! Genealogy Live! is a full-day hybrid program for beginners and experienced genealogists, featuring expert-led sessions, research tips and resources to help bring your family history to life. Sessions include getting started with genealogy, preserving your digital family history, conducting oral history interviews, researching Scottish ancestors and Revolutionary War soldiers and getting younger generations interested in genealogy. The program will also feature a tour of the Temple Public Library’s Genealogy Room and a special presentation by City of Temple Archivist Craig Ordner. This event is free and open to all. Lunch will be provided by Temple Public Library. Registration is required for this event. Register today!

Supernatural Saturday

October 17 | 1 - 5 p.m. Second-Floor Program Room | Ages 18+ Get cozy and celebrate the spooky season with an afternoon of local storytelling, creative crafts and seasonal refreshments. Enjoy poetry and storytelling from local writers and Civic Theatre performers, create a personalized spray bottle or keepsake pendant vial and sip two complimentary mocktails while enjoying a tea leaf reading for your next book or poetry recommendation. Supplies are limited, so come early and enjoy an afternoon of fall fun! Registration is not required for this event.

Women Authors Book Club

October 26 | 5:30 - 7 p.m. Second-Floor Program Room | Ages 18+ Join us for a monthly book discussion featuring works by women authors from around the world. This month, we’ll explore a work by Alma Katsu and invite readers to share their thoughts, questions and perspectives on the book. All readers are welcome, whether you loved the book, had questions about it or simply want to hear what others thought. Upcoming authors include Rebecca Roanhorse and Jenny Erpenbeck. Registration is not required for this event.

Trick or Read

October 30 | 3 - 5:30 p.m. Get into the Halloween spirit at the library with books, crafts, treats and more! Children & Families: Stop by the first floor for not-so-spooky takeand-make crafts and Halloween goodies. Adults: Check out library materials or write a poem for the Temple Poetry Project on the second floor to receive a special Trick-or-Read treat bag. Costumes are encouraged! Stop by for some festive, familyfriendly fun.

Public Works

Public Works plays an important role in maintaining and improving the services and infrastructure our community relies on every day. From roads and bridges to water systems and public spaces, their work helps support safety, accessibility, and a high quality of life for residents.

templetx.gov/publicworks

HOLIDAY GARBAGE & RECYCLING

Collection Schedule Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Columbus Day) Collection Schedule Garbage, recycling and brush/bulk collections will run on a regular schedule on Monday, October 12, Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Columbus Day). Please have your items to the curb by 7 a.m. City offices will be closed on Monday, October 12, and will reopen Tuesday, October 13, at 8 a.m.

Help Prevent Illegal Dumping Some areas continue to face ongoing dumping and trash overflow challenges. Your reports are essential to helping us identify and resolve these issues quickly. Please report any illegal dumping to the City of Temple at 254-298-5000. Let’s keep Temple clean and safe together!

Help Us Keep Storm Drains Clear Keeping storm drains clear is an important part of protecting our streets and local waterways. Stormwater runoff flows directly into our creeks and streams, and anything left in the street— such as 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 by calling 254-298-5000. Let’s work together to reduce flooding and keep our stormwater systems flowing clean and clear. Learn more at templetx.gov/stormwater.

Scoop the Poop Picking up after your pet helps keep pet waste out of storm drains and local waterways. Bag it, tie it and put it in the trash. To learn more, visit templetx.gov/waterconservation.

Wipes Clog Pipes Protect your wastewater pipes by only flushing toilet paper and human waste. Other items such as food waste, hygiene products and fabric items do not break down in the system. They become tangled and cause blockages. Put these items in the trash. Visit templetx.gov/happypipes for more information

Temple Remix City of Temple Solid Waste Services gives leftover paint a second life instead of sending it to the landfill. By recycling and reusing paint, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and help keep our community beautiful - one can at a time! For more information about Temple Remix, visit templetx.gov/templeremix.

Cost & Eligibility

Paint Drop-Off & Pick-Up

There is no charge to drop off or pick up paint through the Temple Remix Paint Recycling Program. This service is available at no cost to City of Temple residents who pay for City utility services. Commercial entities are not eligible to participate in the program.

Residents can drop off unwanted paint or pick up available paint at the City of Temple Solid Waste Complex, located at 2611 E Avenue H. Residents can drop off or pick up paint Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Accepted Paint Guidelines Only latex paint is accepted in the Temple Remix Paint Recycling Program. The program does not accept oil-based paints, stains, epoxies, sealers, or any other non-latex products. Paint must be usable; dried-out or solidified paint will not be accepted and should be disposed of in your regular household trash.

Available Paint Colors

Because the paint is recycled, each can may have a unique color that differs from others. Most available paint is in neutral shades, such as white, gray, or beige, but inventory changes regularly based on what is received.

What Can You Recycle? KEEP ITEMS LOOSE! Remember, no plastic bags and no Styrofoam in your recycling bin. The City of Temple’s recycling program only accepts #1, #2 and #5 plastics. This number is noted on all recyclable items and these numbers are common on soft drink bottles, water bottles or vegetable oil containers are made out of. The following items are accepted in your recycling bin:

Aluminum and metal cans Paperboard boxes (cereal, crackers, pizza boxes without liners or food) Junk mail Magazines Corrugated cardboard boxes Newspapers Office paper Telephone directories Detergent boxes Plastic beverage containers (empty) Plastic soda bottles Plastic water bottles Milk jugs Plastic detergent bottles (rinsed clean)

DID YOU KNOW? Recyclables collected in Temple are transported to the Balcones Recycling Facility in Taylor, Texas, where items are hand-sorted. Keeping items loose helps ensure more materials can be properly recycled. For more information on what is allowed in your recycling bin, visit templetx.gov/recycling.

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. 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.

Dial 3-1-1 or 254-298-5000

TEMPLE TALK: