April 11, 2025

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

City Maintains Highest Credit Rating for 16th Consecutive Year 
For the 16th year in a row, both the Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s credit rating agencies have reaffirmed Richardson’s “Triple A” status, the highest possible rating available for credit worthiness. Richardson has held AAA status from Standard & Poor’s for 18 years, and this is the 16th year in a row the City has received Aaa status from Moody’s.   

The City of Richardson sells bonds annually to fund large public projects, such as roads, water mains and other infrastructure, as well as large equipment for the Fire Department and Solid Waste Department. The bond sales allow the City to address immediate needs and manage financial resources in a way that balances current obligations with future benefits.   

To attain “Triple A” status, the City must meet stringent fiscal performance and control standards across multiple factors, including financial stability, capacity to fulfill debt obligations, and economic conditions. 

Full news release: Click here 

Next Richardson Replants Tree Giveaway is This Weekend 
The City’s Richardson Replants program will host its second tree giveaway of the spring season tomorrow, Saturday, April 12 from 9-11 a.m. at Mimosa Park. The trees are available free on a first-come, first-served basis with proof of Richardson residency, one tree per household. Three different species will be available: Desert Willow, Chinkapin Oak and Peach.  

Richardson Replants is an initiative of the Mayor and City Council to address the significant tree loss the city experienced as a result of storms/hurricane-force winds on May 28, 2024. The program receives support from the Richardson Rotary Club and nonprofit One Earth One Chance. Five hundred trees were given to the community in fall 2024; in total, 1,000 trees will be given out, with an additional 100 trees planted in City parks.  

Richardson Replants Spring Giveaway #2 Details:

• Mimosa Park, 1200 Mimosa Dr.
  One free tree per household with proof of residency (such as driver’s license or water bill)
  Saturday, April 12
  9-11 a.m. (while supplies last)  

Full schedule of giveaway events/tree care tips: www.cor.net/RichardsonReplants.  

Sherrill Park Course 2 Officially Opens 
After a soft opening in mid-February, Sherrill Park Golf Course’s Course 2 officially opened this week with a ceremony and golf tournament. Special guests present included noted PGA Pro and golf course designer D.A. Weibring, whose company redesigned Sherrill Park Course 1 in 1997 and 2015, and Course 2 in 2001, as well as the recent Course 2 redesign. Weibring addressed those gathered and mentioned how well-received the new course has been and praised his longtime friend, Sherrill Park pro Ronny Glanton.  

Renovations to Course 2 began in February 2024 and included fixing drainage issues and improving the course’s playability, aesthetics and turf.    

Video: https://youtu.be/8rgnRc1-4pc

Sherrill Park website: www.sherrillparkgolf.com  

Council Receives Report on Record Number of Infrastructure Projects Currently Underway 
If you’ve felt like every corner of the city is under construction, you’re not the only one. At this week’s City Council meeting, staff gave an overview of the ongoing Capital Improvements Plan (CIP), including updates related to the 2021 Bond program and news on other notable projects. In his introduction, City Manager Don Magner noted that never before in the City’s history has the City had more capital projects underway at one time.  

Highlights: 

Updates and timelines were also given for 2021 Bond-funded traffic signal, drainage/erosion and sidewalk projects; street projects funded in part by DART; Sherrill Park improvements; and the 825 Pressure Zone Improvements project.  

Complete presentation: click here  

DART Silver Line Testing is Back in Richardson 
DART Silver Line vehicle testing has returned to Richardson this month, as testing on segments of the 26-mile Silver Line corridor is taking place in order to meet certain requirements before revenue service begins (expected late this year or early next year). Richardson motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and joggers on streets and trails near the track may catch a glimpse of the vehicles heading through Richardson on both weekdays and weekends, most commonly between the hours of 9 a.m.-4 p.m.   

Trains will be sounding their horns during the testing, as robust testing is necessary so that the trains and their systems run smoothly and without any issues once passengers are aboard. Quiet zones will be activated when revenue service begins. Segmented testing also took place in the Richardson area last summer/fall. Once all the track is completed along the line, end-to-end testing will begin.  

More information: www.dart.org/silverline  

City Council Updated on The Counseling Place 
Staff from The Counseling Place updated the City Council at Monday’s work session on the organization’s services, accomplishments and needs. Formerly known as Neighborhood Youth Services, The Counseling Place has been a partner with the City for over four decades, providing low-cost and free mental health services to juvenile offenders, victims of crime, first responders and the community at large.  

With a staff of nine full-time staff and five part-time, the organization exceeded projections in FY 24 by serving 973 clients through therapy sessions, mental health education classes such as the Project Positive classes for youth held at the Library and also presented to the Police Department’s Police Explorers class, and a new Empower U program that is helping individuals affected by intimate partner violence. FY 25 has seen a hit to the organization’s budget due to a reduction in funds through the Victims Of Crime Act (VOCA), so free services for juvenile offenders have had to be reduced (though the organization has experienced an increase in juvenile offender referrals due to legislative changes).  

A “Mindful Mile/Color Walk” fundraiser is planned for April 26 at Huffhines Park.  

Complete presentation: Click here 

More information: www.counselingplace.org  

National Library Week Observed 
The Richardson Public Library is celebrating National Library Week this week (April 6-12) by exploring the national theme of “Drawn to the Library.” Drawing/coloring stations have been set up throughout the Library, and local cartoonist Andy Hirsch was a special guest last Saturday for an all-ages, live demonstration of his digital workspace and a peek into how he creates comic books. In addition, the Library is highlighting its graphic novel collections.  

The American Library Association marks National Library Week every April to highlight the valuable role that libraries and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. The Richardson City Council recognized the week and Library leadership staff at Monday’s City Council work session; see story below for more updates on the Library. 

Library Announces New Offerings, Reports on Past Fiscal Year 
In conjunction with National Library Week, Richardson Public Library staff gave a presentation at Monday’s City Council work session which included statistics on Library services in FY 2024 and news about upcoming 2025 events.   

More than 232,000 people visited the temporary Library space in FY 24 (an average of 720/day) and checked out more than 834,000 total items, both physical and digital; Library staff talked to more than 19,000 additional people through 57 events outside the Library. In addition to reading (and listening) material, services provided by the Library include free public internet access and in-library laptop checkout; use of a 3-D printer; multicultural events; free classes, storytimes and lectures; and a free seed library.  

New offerings for 2025 include take-home board game check-out; a Pages of Perspective book club (begins June 5) and a monthly Creative Community Circle (begins June 14). After making its debut at Santa’s Village in December, the Library’s new R.O.V.E.R. outreach van has been busy and will appear at many upcoming events including the City’s “Eggstravaganza” at Breckinridge Park this weekend (more information under Events below).  

Complete presentation (including photographs of Library renovation progress): Click here 

Richardson’s Legislative Priorities Discussed 
With the 89th Texas Legislative Session less than 55 days away from closing (bill filing deadline was March 14), City staff gave an update to the City Council at Monday’s work session regarding the status of key bills that municipalities are watching closely. More than 8,900 bills in total have been filed, with more than 2,000 being tracked by the City of Richardson. Among 26 highlighted Monday include bills that would limit or eliminate the ability for cities to advocate for or against legislation; a bill that would eliminate the ability of cities to issue Certificates of Obligation debt for several types of public improvements; and one that would shift sales and use tax collection from origin sourcing to destination sourcing.   

City staff are closely monitoring votes and legislative committee hearings and recommending any City response needed. The state legislative session closes June 2.  

Monday’s presentation: Click here 

City Council Candidate Forum Wednesday Night 
The League of Women Voters of Richardson is holding a Richardson City Council candidate forum Wednesday, April 16 at 7 p.m. in the Eisemann Center’s Bank of America Theatre, 2351 Performance Dr. The forum is for the candidates in the May 3 election that are running for contested Richardson City Council seats: Mayor and Place 6.  

Video of the forum will be posted at www.lwvrichardson.org after the event.  

More information: www.lwvrichardson.org 

Lane Closures on Renner Expected Just East of Custer Parkway 
The right and center lanes of eastbound Renner Road extended 1,000 feet east of Custer Parkway may be closed to traffic from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. daily as utility work takes place. The work is expected to be complete by late April. 

Utility Work on Jupiter to Close Two Lanes South of Arapaho 
The left and center lanes of southbound Jupiter Road between Arapaho Road and Russwood Lane may be closed to traffic from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. for manhole replacement. The work is expected to wrap up by late April.  

www.cor.net/projects

“Eggstravaganza” is Saturday 
Breckinridge Park Pavilions (Lot C), 2794 Brand Rd.
Fee: $10 per resident child; $12/nonresident child (registration link: click here)
Saturday, April 12
10 a.m.-1 p.m.  

Bring a basket and join us for the City of Richardson Eggstravaganza! This is not your typical egg hunt—you’ll be “hoppin’ down the bunny trail” collecting eggs from various booths hosted by local community organizations! Other activities include story time with the Richardson Library, bounce houses, arts and crafts, and photos with the Easter Bunny. For ages 3-12. 

Watercolor Doodle on Monday 
Huffhines Recreation Center, 200 N. Plano Rd.
Fee: $22 (registration link: click here)
Monday, April 14
10-11:30 a.m.  

Enjoy a stress-free watercolor class while listening to relaxing music. The print is already on the 11x14 watercolor pad and all materials are provided. Allow yourself to escape into the world of watercoloring, creating a one-of-a-kind work of art. For ages 21 and up. 

Summer Camp Counselor Hiring Fair Next Saturday 
Heights Recreation Center, 711 W. Arapaho Rd.
Admission: Free
Saturday, April 19
8 a.m.-1 p.m.  

The City of Richardson’s Parks and Recreation Department is preparing for a fun-filled summer and is seeking enthusiastic and responsible individuals to serve as day camp counselors. This special “one-stop shop” hiring event is designed to streamline the hiring process. Applicants will be interviewed on-site and, if selected, can immediately move forward with the necessary next steps to complete with Human Resources staff.  

Job descriptions/applications: www.cor.net/Jobs  

Interview appointment time scheduling: click here 

Questions? E-mail recruitment@cor.gov 

NASA Astro Camp Tomorrow 
City Council Chamber, City Hall, 2360 Campbell Creek Blvd. Ste. 525
Admission: Free (no registration required)
Saturday, April 12
2:30-4 p.m.  

Expand your knowledge of space and astronomy concepts by engaging with a variety of hands-on NASA science mission activities in this Library-sponsored event. Learn about galaxy formation, landing a planetary probe, space detectors and more! For ages 9-13. 

Teen Program: Animé Club Thursday 
Millwood Creek Room
Cost: Free (no registration required)
Thursday, April 17
7-8 p.m.  

Anime watchers ages 13-18 unite! It’s a monthly watch, chat and more about the anime you love. Rated: PG-13 (or lower) 

At the Eisemann Center:

• This Weekend: “Shelter Me” Rock Oratorio
  Hill Performance Hall
  Tickets: “Pay What You Wish” Reserved Seating, $10-$75 (tickets) 
  April 12-13
  Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m.
  
  Join the Dallas Street Choir, the UT Dallas Choir and the Credo Community Choir for this semi-staged choral oratorio inspired by the lives of Dallas Street Choir members. Follow the poignant journey of a young man suddenly finding himself without shelter and navigating the unforgiving streets. His steadfast companion is an older man well-versed in the trials of homelessness, having weathered its challenges for a significant portion of his life.
  
  
• Honolulu Theatre for Youth Sunday 
  Bank of America Theatre
  Tickets: $12-$27 (tickets)
  Sunday, April 13
  2 p.m.
  
  From the Eisemann Center Presents series, this original play introduces young audiences to the Native Hawaiian relationship to pa‘akai (salt). Traditionally, pa‘akai is food, medicine, a sacrament and a treasured gift. The story follows multiple generations of salt farmers on Kauai, mixing in ancient stories, hula, live music, original songs and plenty of audience participation. Created by Moses Goods and the HTY Ensemble.
  
  In conjunction with this concert, the Eisemann Center is partnering with Network of Community Ministries to support those in need. Attendees are asked to please bring baking ingredients (salt, flour, sugar, spices) to donate and help make a difference in our community.
  
  
• “Liverpool Legends” Next Friday 
  Hill Performance Hall
  Tickets: $35-$85 (tickets)
  Friday, April 18
  8 p.m.
  
  Liverpool Legends are four incredibly talented musicians/actors curated by Louise Harrison, sister of the late George Harrison, to honor her brother’s legacy and re-create the band that changed the world forever. This Grammy-nominated and one-of-a-kind Beatles show is narrated by Louise and honors The Beatles’ legacy by tracing their musical evolution from early hits to psychedelic masterpieces. With note-perfect vocals, precise attention to every musical detail, along with costume changes, vintage instruments, and new state-of-the-art multi-media, Liverpool Legends will make you feel like you are seeing the real thing! 

At UT Dallas:

• Comet Ready Community Fest Tomorrow
  UT Dallas Visitor Center, 842 Loop Rd. SW
  Admission: Free (free parking available in Lot J)
  Saturday, April 12
  11 a.m.-3 p.m.
  
  The public is invited to join the UT Dallas Office of Emergency Management along with local public safety partners for a fun event designed to build awareness so you “KnoWhat2do” in emergency situations. Includes vendor booths, free food, raffles, face painting, games, giveaways, and emergency vehicle displays and demonstrations. Bring a shelf-stable food item for the Comet Cupboard and receive an extra raffle ticket. Event link: click here 

“Run for Your Wife” Opens Tonight at RTC 
Richardson Theatre Centre, 518 W. Arapaho Rd.
Tickets: $22-$24 (ticket link: click here)
April 11-May 4
Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.  

In this 1983 comedy play, a taxi driver gets away with having two wives in different areas of London because of his irregular working schedule. Complication is piled upon complication as the cabby tries to keep his double life from exploding. 

Texas State Parks Event: Nature Journaling Workshop 
Lake Tawakoni State Park, 10822 FM 2475, Wills Point
Cost: $5 per person aged 13 and older
Saturday, April 12
10-11 a.m. 

Nature journaling can be a special way to preserve unique memories from your camping/hiking/outdoor adventures. Join a Ranger near the Farkleberry Trailhead to learn how to use your five senses to observe the world around you and how to put those observations into a fun creative journal. Bring water and sunscreen as the event takes place outside. Class is held weather permitting. 

Website: Click here 

Consider Texas Superstar^® Plants for your Landscape 
If you’re planting new plants this spring, the Dallas County Master Gardener Association recommends considering Texas Superstar^® perennials—i.e. plants that are beautiful yet come back year after year with little care and not much water. To receive the Superstar^® designation by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, a plant has performed well in a variety of Texas climates, is resistant to pests and diseases, and can be grown readily enough to provide garden centers with enough supply.   

Some of the Superstar^® perennials include Cape Plumbago, Dwarf Mexican Petunia, New Gold Lantana, Butterfly Vine, Red Yucca, and Flare Hibiscus. The Superstar^® list also includes woody shrubs, various trees, and specialty plants like Tycoon tomato and Green Magic broccoli.   

Complete list of both perennial and annual Texas Superstars^®: Click here 

Dallas County Master Gardener Association website: Click here 

Driver/Loader, SWS Recycling ($43,136 - $60,013 Salary) 
The Public Services Department is looking for individuals who can drive and operate residential refuse and or recycling collection equipment. Work in a small crew to collect, load, transport and dispose of refuse, garbage, recycling and brush.  Applicable Texas Commercial Learner’s Permit is required within 1 month of hire. Texas Commercial Driver’s License, Class B, is required within 6 months of hire.   

Detention Officer ($43,520 to $67,770 Salary) 
The Police Department is looking for individuals who can performs all duties necessary for the successful operation of the Detention Division. Valid Texas Driver's License, Class C or above, required.   

Day Camp Counselor ($13.00/hr - $14.25/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 Zoe, a 2-year-old Australian Kelpie mix, whose sweetness is as infectious as her friendly nature. Her days are filled with playful romps and gentle interactions with her fellow canine companions. Zoe’s demeanor is a testament to her ability to get along wonderfully with other dogs. She’s a perfect companion for those seeking a friend who's easy-going and sociable. Her kind spirit and friendly disposition are the qualities that make her a wonderful pet. Zoe’s boundless love and friendliness are waiting to be shared with a loving family. 

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

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