May 24, 2024

This is the latest edition of Week In Review — a series of weekly messages from the Mayor and City Council to help Richardson residents and businesses keep up to date on municipal events. If you would like to sign up to receive this in a weekly e-mail click here.

Throughout the year, the City Council or City Plan Commission will hold meetings on topics of significant interest to local neighborhoods or the community in general. Links to view all City Council or City Plan Commission meeting documents that may have topics of interest to you can be found here:

City Council | City Plan Commission

Memorial Day Holiday Trash, Recycling Schedule Changes 
For the Memorial Day holiday, City services and facilities will operate according to the following holiday schedule. 

TRASH / RECYCLING / BRUSH AND BULKY ITEM COLLECTION (BABIC)
There will be NO trash, recycling or Brush and Bulky Item Collection (BABIC) service provided Monday, May 27. There will be NO make-up days for trash collection or BABIC. 

The make-up days for recycling collection are listed below.

Recycle Make-up Days

Public Facility Operating Hours

City Awards First RAMP Grant for Local Tech Startups 
FirstThen, an early-stage technology company specializing in the development of family-centered digital solutions used to treat pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders, has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the City of Richardson’s Research Award Match Program (RAMP) support. 

The company’s selection is based on FirstThen having already secured a Phase I award from the National Science Foundation’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The SBIR program fosters innovation by supporting small businesses that are driving economic growth by bringing new technologies to market. As part of the RAMP program, FirstThen will receive support from the City to expand its current capabilities and develop its technologies in ways that create economic opportunity in Richardson.  

FirstThen’s core technology is focused on addressing a massive unmet need for non-medication treatments for pediatric Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Their work will positively impact children, families and society by making evidence-based behavioral interventions accessible and affordable.   

Complete news story: Click here  

Heights Family Aquatic Center Open for Memorial Day Weekend; Buy Pool Passes at Rec Centers to Avoid Lines 
Heights Family Aquatic Center will open tomorrow, Saturday, May 25 through Monday, May 27, from noon-8 p.m. The Aquatic Center will then reopen Saturday, June 1 for its regular summer schedule along with the City’s neighborhood pools (see story below).  

Season passes are also available for purchase at Heights or Huffhines recreation centers for $45 for individual residents and $150 for a resident family of up to four members. Nonresident individual passes are available for $65. 

Daily admission to the Heights Family Aquatic Center (for both swimmers and non-swimmers) is $4 for residents and $8 for nonresidents; Children ages 3 and under are admitted for free. 

Website: www.cor.net/aquatics  

All City Pools Open June 1 for the Season 
Summer swim season in Richardson officially starts Saturday, June 1 when all City pools open, including the four neighborhood pools (Canyon Creek, Cottonwood, Glenville and Terrace) and the Heights Family Aquatic Center. Hours vary by pool, with each pool closed one day per week. 

In-pool features vary by facility; all aquatics facilities include restrooms, chairs and tables; the Heights Family Aquatic Center also has ice cream available for purchase. Swim classes are offered at each neighborhood pool and swim teams are offered at three neighborhood pools; check the Swimming and Camps guide.  

Neighborhood pool admission is $2 for residents and $4 for nonresidents; season passes are $30/resident, $40/nonresident, and $100/resident family of four; see above for fee information for Heights Family Aquatic Center. Pools will close for the season on a staggered schedule from July 28-Sept. 2.  

Website: www.cor.net/aquatics  

Pool Facility Schedule: www.cor.net/departments/parks-recreation/aquatics  

Swim Camps: Swim Camp Guide  

Wildflower! Cleanup Completed 
Crews worked daily this week to clean streets and plazas at Galatyn Park Urban Center and take down tents, stages and all the rest of the apparatus that shaped the City’s Wildflower! Arts & Music festival last weekend. All streets in the area have been reopened to regular traffic.  

National Public Works Week Recognized; City Holds Heavy Equipment Road-E-O 
Public Services staff were recognized at Monday’s City Council meeting in conjunction with National Public Works Week, which is taking place this week, May 19-25. Each day, the department has held events or recognized their staff with special treats. 

On Tuesday, 16 Public Services employees gathered at Huffhines Park to compete in the annual Heavy Equipment Road-E-O. The Road-E-O involved two events where contestants had to use a backhoe loader to see how fast they could drop basketballs into a net and place giant puzzle pieces into a puzzle base. Justin Vickers took home the trophy for both events.  

The American Public Works Association has been sponsoring National Public Works Week since 1960 to educate the public on the importance of public works in improving everyday quality of life. In 2003, Presidential Policy Directive 8 officially recognized public works employees as First Responders, as they work to clear streets and debris during and after weather disasters and respond 24-7 to all things that interrupt the normal operation of water, sewer, street and storm water systems.  

Video: https://www.facebook.com/100064482108559/videos/777346830829888

Video: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=988481606214367  

“State of the Arts” Report Given, Cultural Arts Master Plan Update Discussed
Members from the City’s Cultural Arts Commission (CAC) held a joint meeting with the City Council Monday, presenting the biennial update on the CAC’s activities over the past two fiscal years. The CAC makes recommendations each year to the City Council regarding grants for local arts organizations, conducts workshops for the grant recipients and provides representation on public art selection committees.  

Highlights of the report: 

Following the joint meeting, representatives with BerryDunn outlined the timing and scope of how the Master Plan will be updated. A Discovery phase is now underway, with Engagement (community outreach), Analysis, and Visioning phases to follow, about a 12-month process in total.  

Monday’s presentation: Click here 

City Strives for “Silver” Bicycle Friendly Status; Complete Streets Policy Drafted 
Transportation staff gave an update at Monday’s City Council meeting on the progress of implementing the Active Transportation Plan adopted in 2023, which incorporated key steps recommended by the League of American Bicyclists for Richardson to become more bike-friendly and achieve a Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation. The City was awarded a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation in 2015 and 2019.     

Nine of 17 key steps outlined have been completed, including the recent establishment of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), and seven steps are in progress, including the drafting of a Complete Streets Policy. The policy is a document that details an agency’s commitment to developing a comprehensive multimodal transportation system that facilitates safe, accessible, comfortable, and convenient mobility for all people and travel modes. The policy includes several required elements, many of which the City already does, creating a framework for the design, construction, maintenance, and operations of streets to consider all users. At the meeting, Transportation staff presented the draft document to the Council for feedback after it was approved previously by the BPAC.    

After Council approval, the policy will be included in the City’s Bicycle Friendly Community renewal application due in late June.  

Monday’s presentation: Click here 

Sales Tax Holiday this Weekend for Water Conserving and Energy Star^® Items
Texans can save on the purchase of certain water-efficient and water-conserving products (including plants) as well as energy-efficient appliances during two annual sales tax holidays taking place May 25-27.  

The Water-Efficient Products Sales Tax Holiday allows for no tax to be charged on products that display a WaterSense® label or logo. These include certain shower heads, bathroom sink faucets, toilets and landscape irrigation controls. The sales tax holiday also applies to certain other water-conserving products (even without a WaterSense® label) if used at a residence, including soaker or drip-irrigation hoses; mulch; rain barrels; and plants, trees and grasses.  

The ENERGY STAR® Sales Tax Holiday allows tax-free purchase, rental or lease of the following products if they display the ENERGY STAR® logo:  

There is no limit to the number of qualifying items purchased.  

More information: Water-Efficient Products Sales Tax Holiday (texas.gov), ENERGY STAR Sales Tax Holiday (texas.gov)  

Primary Runoff Election is May 28; Early Voting Ends Tonight 
The Joint Primary Runoff Election is underway to finalize the candidate list for November’s General Election, with Early Voting ending tonight, May 24, and Election Day scheduled for next Tuesday, May 28. Both Dallas and Collin counties are holding Democratic and Republican Primary runoffs.  

Early voting ends at 7 p.m. tonight; Dallas County early voting locations in Richardson include First Baptist Richardson, 1001 N. Central Expwy., and the Islamic Association of North Texas, 840 Abrams Rd. Note that in Collin County, the Democratic Party Primary Runoff Election will only be conducted at polling locations within State Senate District 30, so only eligible voters who reside within that district may vote in the Democratic Party Primary Runoff Election. The Republican Party Primary Election contains multiple countywide contests and will be conducted at polling locations throughout Collin County as well as at First Baptist Richardson.

• Collin County Early Voting locations: Click here
• Collin County Election Day Voting locations: Click here
• Dallas County Early Voting locations: Click here
• Dallas County Election Day voting locations: Click here  

Election Day voting hours are 7 a.m.-7 p.m.  

Website: www.votetexas.gov 

Website: www.cor.net/elections 

No City Council Meeting Monday 
Due to the Memorial Day holiday, there will be no City Council work session or meeting May 27. The City Council will next meet Monday, June 3 beginning at 6 p.m.  

Council meeting dates and agendas: www.cor.net/CityCouncil  

Temporary Closure of PGBT Frontage Road Near CityLine Begins Next Friday 
All lanes of the eastbound and westbound frontage road of SH190 (Bush Turnpike) will be closed at the DART Silver Line rail crossing May 31-June 3 as pavement is replaced, part of scheduled construction activity for the Silver Line.  

More information: Click here 

Two Lane Closures Expected on Campbell Road West of US 75 
The right lanes of eastbound and westbound Campbell Road between Collins Boulevard and Gateway Boulevard may be closed to traffic from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. as fiber optic work takes place. The work is expected to be complete by late August.  

www.cor.net/projects

PM Pints Next Thursday: “Revolutionizing Healthcare Benefits” 
The IQ^®HQ, 1302 E. Collins Blvd.
Admission: Free
Thursday, May 30
5 p.m.  

PM Pints will feature a “fireside chat” with special guest Jack Hooper, Co-Founder and CEO of Take Command, a streamlined healthcare benefits platform tailored for small- and mid-market employers. Come listen to insights on the healthcare benefits world and unravel the story behind Take Command’s inception, while networking with fellow Richardson residents and business community members. The chat will be moderated by Chris Shacklett, Interim Director of the City of Richardson’s Economic Development Department.  

More information/RSVP: Click here  

Summer Day Camp Program “Meet the Counselors” Next Friday 
Heights Recreation Center
Cost: Free
Friday, May 31
6-7:30 p.m. come and go  

Bring your camper to meet the camp staff and learn all about the City’s Summer Day Camp program. 

“Protect Yourself Online” Class for Adults Tomorrow
Millwood Creek Room
Cost: Free (registration required and an RPL card in good standing; call 972-744-4355 to register)
Saturday, May 25
10:30 a.m.-noon 

Adults are invited to learn how to establish good online habits and avoid security pitfalls.  

“Magic the Gathering” Beginner Tournament Sunday 
Spring Creek Room 
Admission: Free (registration required; call 972-744-4355 to register) 
Sunday, May 26 
2:30-4:30 p.m.    

Beginning players are invited to compete for homemade cookies, Magic the Gathering themed stickers and bragging rights! Bring your own deck, or use a deck provided by the library. Event is limited to 14 participants. 

At UT Dallas: 

• Spring 2024 Arts Capstone Projects Available for Viewing
  Online 
  Cost to view: Free
  Through Thursday, May 30
  Available 24/7; click here to view: Bass Spring 2024 Capstone | (utdallas.edu) 
  
  A presentation of the culminating projects of Spring 2024 graduates from the Bass School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology. Specializations include Animation and Games, Design and Production, Visual and Performing Arts, Design and Creative Process, and ATEC General.  

Community Theater 

• Sketch Comedy at The Core Theatre Tonight
  518 W. Arapaho Rd., Ste. 115
  Tickets: $10-$15 (Ticket link: Click here)
  Friday, May 24
  8 p.m.
  
  Coyote Sketch Comedy (comprised of Alex Harvey, Josh Krebs, Andrew Briseno, Danny Gallagher and Ianne Warshawsky) returns to the local stage for an hour-long show. For ages 18+ due to some language and adult content.
  
  Website: www.thecoretheatre.org  

Community Music  

• Chamber Music International Presents Jazz Concert Tomorrow Night
  St. Barnabas Presbyterian Church, 1220 W. Belt Line Rd.
  Tickets: $15-$45 (Tickets: Click here)
  Saturday, May 25
  7:30 p.m.
  
  Violinist and five-time Grammy winner Scott Tixier leads some of the best jazz artists in North Texas including Mike Luzecky on double bass and bass; Matt Young on drums; and Kwinton Gray on piano and keyboard. A pre-concert performance at 7 p.m. features the winner of the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra’s Chamber Music Competition.
  
  
• RCB Kicks Off Outdoor Concert Series Sunday 
  Huffhines Park Pavilion
  Cost: Free
  Sunday, May 26
  7 p.m.
  
  The Richardson Community Band is back at Huffhines Park for its free summer concert series, starting off the schedule with a special Memorial Day Tribute concert. They’ll perform songs to celebrate the “last full measure of devotion” of soldiers of all ages. In addition to patriotic favorites, expect some technical and lyrical favorites from Tom Fletcher on euphonium. Blankets, chairs, picnics and dogs are welcome! 
  
  Website: www.richardsoncommunityband.org 

Time to Try Composting 
Annually, May 29 is National Learn About Composting Day, and if you haven’t tried composting yet, it’s a great time to get more information about it. Composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into a valuable, nutrient-rich natural fertilizer called compost (that looks a lot like garden soil) that can be used for gardening, horticulture and agriculture. Compost can be created in small, covered bins or large, backyard piles, and not only benefits gardens, but keeps unnecessary waste out of landfills and the water system.  

The City of Richardson practices composting by having its cut brush and limbs turned into mulch and compost at the regional Texas Pure facility; residents may participate by placing cut limbs and brush at the curb and/or by placing leaves and grass clippings into compostable yard bags at the curb and requesting a BABIC pickup.   

Composting information: Composting - How to make good compost at home (tamu.edu),  

BABIC information: Make Mulch, Not Trash | Richardson, TX (cor.net)  

It’s Bobcat, Coyote Birthing Season; Sightings Increase 
April-May is birthing season for coyotes and April-June for bobcats, so the increase in wildlife sightings around Richardson lately may be due to the fact that male coyotes and female bobcats are out and about more while on the hunt for food to feed their growing families.  

If you see a coyote or bobcat, remember: 

Owners of small dogs and cats should be vigilant in keeping their pets confined to their property or on a 6 foot or shorter leash when walking. Bobcats can climb trees and fences and jump up to 12 feet; coyotes can jump over a five-foot fence.  
 
Website: www.cor.net/coyotes 

Website: www.cor.net/bobcats  

www.cor.net/EPI

Maintenance Helper II ($39,288 - $49,200 Salary) 
The Public Services Department has multiple job opening in Streets, Utilities, Water and Construction and is looking for individuals who love working outdoors doing repair and construction to streets. Texas Drivers License, Class C, required.  

Project Engineer ($88,164 - $127,272 Salary) 
The Engineering and Capital Projects Department is looking for an individual who can manage the design and construction of a wide variety of public works and municipal projects and prepare and review engineering construction documents and cost estimates for public works projects. Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering required from a university with an engineering program accredited by the Accrediting Board for Engineering and Technology.  

Day Camp Counselor ($10.25/hr - $14.28/hr) 
The Parks and Recreation Department is looking for individuals with experience working with children. Must be at least 16 years of age with CPR and First-Aid Certification required or obtained during job orientation. 

www.cor.net/jobs

Pet of the Week
Meet Reba, a 2-year-old pitbull mix with a heart full of love and a spirit full of courage. Despite recently transitioning to life as a tripod, Reba's sweetness has only amplified. Reba's indomitable spirit is infectious, bringing joy to all who meet her. Her tender, loving nature makes her a wonderful companion, eager to share in life's simple pleasures. Adopting Reba means bringing home not just a pet, but a friend who will enrich your life with her unwavering loyalty, love and courage. 

For information about animals available for adoption, visit the Animal Shelter’s web page here.

City Council Links