October 20, 2023

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Featured News 📰

New Announcements This Week!

We are launching a new division called Community Engagement to consolidate our outreach programs, downtown activation, communications operations, and the dozens of City special events into one cohesive group. Additionally, Community Engagement has merged with Economic Development to form the Department of Economic and Community Engagement.


And now for our second announcement - it is with great pleasure that we introduce Brittney Farr as the new Director of Economic and Community Engagement!

Brittney brings a wealth of experience to her role, having previously served as the Senior Director of Engagement and Administration at the Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA). In this capacity, she provided leadership and oversight for the Government Relations, Human Resources, and Marketing/Communications departments, overseeing all external communications for the agency and driving the organization's success.


Prior to her tenure at DCTA, Ms. Farr spent 9 years at Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), where she served as the Local and Regional Government Relations Manager. There, she acted as the primary liaison between the Agency, its 13 Service Area Cities and regional governing bodies. Her tenure at DART culminated in the origination and leadership of the Office of Community Connections. In this role, Brittney spearheaded the agency's response to critical social issues, including human trafficking prevention, addressing food insecurity, improving workforce access, and addressing homelessness and mental health concerns.


A licensed attorney in the State of Texas, Ms. Farr received her Juris Doctorate from Boston College Law School and her Bachelor of Arts in Government from the University of Texas at Austin.


The new Economic Development and Community Engagement team looks forward to serving our residents and business community!

Early Voting Gets Underway Next Week!

Early voting begins Monday, October 23 for the upcoming Special Election on November 7. On the ballot is City Councilmember for Place 1.


Live in Dallas County? You can early vote at the City Hall Annex Conference Room (4004 Main Street), or at any Dallas County Early Vote Center location.


Live in Rockwall County? You'll early vote at the Rockwall County Library (1215 E. Yellowjacket Lane, Rockwall).


More info...

Utility Billing Customer Service Center Opens November 9!

On Wednesday, November 8, the current Utility Billing Office located in the City Hall Annex will be closed for relocation. We reopen as the Utility Customer Service Center on Nov. 9 at 7:30am at 6602 Dalrock Rd., with a Grand Opening party at 10am! Join us for a ribbon cutting ceremony, balloons, popcorn, and cookies...you know, lots of goodies - we can't wait for you to see our new home!

Drop Box Update: The payment drop box in front of Ace Hardware (8505 Lakeview Parkway) has been relocated to the Utility Customer Service Center location.


Payment Options: Even during our relocation, you can still conveniently make payments online, over the phone (844-238-8997), or by using the drop box. We've got you covered!


Emergency Contact on November 8: In case of any emergencies during our regular business hours, please direct your calls to 972-412-6100. Our dedicated Action Center team will ensure your calls are handled promptly and efficiently.

Thank you for your understanding during this transition. We can't wait to serve you at 6602 Dalrock Rd, Rowlett, TX 75089!

Celebrate DiversCity

Saturday, October 21

Downtown Rowlett 4-7pm

Presented by Rowlett Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commission, who invite you to come get to know more about Rowlett's diverse culture with a combination of performances and activities for people all ages. Bring a lawn chair to watch the performances and visit all the booths for educational activities!

Keep Rowlett Beautiful Electronic Recycling & Document Shred Day

Saturday, October 21 is the semi-annual Electronics Recycling & Paper Shredding event at Rowlett High School, from 9am to 1pm. Super popular event, which allows us to get rid of old electronics cluttering up our homes in an environmentally safe manner. Document shredding is also offered, 3 boxes free. More info...

Trunk or Treat

Saturday, October 28

5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Pecan Grove Park (5300 Main St.)

Attention all Halloween enthusiasts! Get ready for the 2023 Trunk or Treat Halloween Event! This exciting event promises to be an evening of spooky fun, with something for everyone to enjoy!


Find a map of all the activities online here...


Parking will be available at the Rowlett High School.

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month

At this week's City Council Meeting, October was recognized by proclamation as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.


October is annually recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month; and although progress has been made toward preventing and ending domestic violence and providing support to survivors and their families, important work remains to be done.

Domestic violence affects people of all genders, sexual orientations, ages, racial, ethnic, cultural, social, religious, and economic groups in the United States and here in Texas.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7. The phone number is 800-799-7233 or you can text START to 88788.


More resources and info can be found here...

October is Arts & Humanities Month

At this week's City Council meeting, the City Council presented a proclamation recognizing the month of October as National Arts & Humanities month.


Our city's rich tapestry of culture and creativity is something to celebrate. From local arts agencies to amazing contests, grants, and outreach events, the Rowlett Arts and Humanities Commission is at the heart of it all, encouraging everyone to embrace and engage in the arts and humanities. Learn more here...

National Code Compliance Month

At this week's City Council meeting, members of the Rowlett Code Enforcement team were recognized by proclamation for National Code Compliance Month. This is a month to recognize and express appreciation for the dedication and service of those that serve as Code Enforcement Officers and code professionals. Rowlett’s Code Enforcement Officers are highly visible in our community. They are a team committed to promoting the sustainability of our community through compliance and education of City codes and ordinances, while fostering meaningful relationships with the community.

Upcoming Events

Oct.

20&21

Nightmare on Hanover Ct. @ Pecan Grove Park

Friday, October 20 & Saturday, October 21

6pm-9pm @ Pecan Grove Park

More info....

Oct.

21

KRB Electronic Recycling & Document Shred Day

Saturday, October 21

9am-1pm @ Rowlett High School

More info...

Oct.

21

Celebrate DiversCity

Saturday, October 21

4pm-7pm @ Downtown Rowlett

More info...

Oct.

23

Lunch on the Lawn

Monday, October 23

11am-2pm @ Downtown Rowlett

More info...

Oct.

26

Taste of Fall Farmers & Craft Market

Thursday, October 26

5:30pm -8:30 pm @ Downtown Rowlett

More info...

View More Upcoming Events

🐶 Animal Shelter Guest Spotlight 🐱

Come Meet Lacey!

Breed: Mix

Age: 3 Years

Gender: Female

Color: Fawn/White


 Lacey is a lovable pup, who is ready to be in a home! When she isn’t running around the play yard, she can usually be found taking a nap and looking for snuggles! Lacey loves playing with chew toys, playing fetch, and going for walks. Lacey also loves getting belly rubs and scratches; she could stare at you with her big brown eyes and melts your heart every time. She is a fun, friendly pup that is well behaved and loves spending time with Staff and Volunteers! P.S- She is Potty Trained and Crate Trained.

If you would like to meet Lacey, or any of the other adoptable animals, please contact Animal Services at 972 412-6219 or come by the shelter at 4402 Industrial St., from 10am to 5pm, Tuesday- Saturday.

See All of the Available Pets

City Department Weekly Highlights

Rowlett Public Library

National Friends of the Library Week!

At last week's City Council Meeting, October 16-21 was proclaimed as National Friends of the Library Week. From October 16-21, if you become a member of the Friends of the Rowlett Public Library you could win a brand new Kindle Fire! 


Enter the drawing and support your library here...


By becoming a member, you're not only eligible for this amazing prize but also play a crucial role in promoting literacy and supporting our community. Your membership helps the Rowlett Public Library provide essential resources and programs for our library patrons.


Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to join the Friends of the Rowlett Public Library and get a chance to upgrade your reading experience with a Kindle Fire.

Storytime - Wednesdays & Thursdays @ 10:00am & 11:00am

For toddlers and preschoolers (ages 0 to 4) who can actively engage and listen for 30 minutes. Due to limited space, tickets are required for entry and can be collected at the reference desk the day of the program.

  • 25 & 26: It Came From the Freezer

Elementals - Wednesdays @ 4 pm

Kids ages 5 to 8 can enjoy STEAM-related activities that bring forth innovation and creativity. This month’s theme is LEGO®.

  • 25 Pumpkin Slime

STEAM Squad - Thursdays @ 4pm

Kids ages 9 to 14 can learn about FIRST® LEGO® League and participate in activities related to the competition.


Book Sale

The Library will have a Book Sale on Saturday, November 4 from 10 am to 5 pm. Join the Friends of the Library for early access to the Book Sale on Friday, November 3. If you join the Friends the week of October 15, you will be entered into a drawing for a Kindle Fire as part of National Friends of Libraries Week! More details...

Parks & Recreation

Nightmare on Hanover Ct. @ Pecan Grove Park

Get ready for a spine-chilling Halloween experience like no other! Nightmare on Hanover CT. is at the Rowlett Pecan Grove Park (5300 Main St.) this Halloween season! 


This event is running every Friday and Saturday until October 28, from 6pm -9pm. We are bringing your favorite horror movie characters to life in a hair-raising experience. It's the ultimate way to get into the Halloween spirit! 

Fall Lunch on the Lawn

Mondays in October

11am-2pm in Downtown Rowlett

Take your lunch hour outdoors and enjoy this fabulous fall weather. Indulge in delicious treats from a variety of food trucks and satisfy your cravings with an array of options, from savory to sweet!

More info...

Taste of Fall Farmers & Craft Market

Thursdays thru October 26

5:30-8:30pm in Downtown Rowlett

Savor the flavors of autumn at Rowlett's highly anticipated "Taste of Fall Farmers and Craft Market" a GO TEXAN certified market! Join us for an unforgettable evening of delicious treats and delightful crafts. More info...

Community Development

Is THIS a Code Violation?

Rowlett Code of Ordinances, Chapter 22-263 limits the number, size parking surface and location of commercial vehicles in a residential district. 


  • Only one commercial vehicle, which does not exceed one-ton gross vehicle weight rating capacity is allowed per premises. 
  • All vehicles shall be parked on a required concrete surface at least three feet from the rear property line, provided that vehicles on corner lots shall not be stored on any side of the lot adjacent to a street.
  • Commercial vehicles shall not be parked or stored within the front yard of any residential lot.
  • If the commercial vehicle is parked on the street, please contact the Police Department non-emergency number.

More info...

Fire Department

School Visit

Station 1 visited Stephen’s Elementary for Public Safety week presentation. The firemen showed the students how to stay safe in the event of a fire, and what to do in case of an emergency. The kids got to see real-life bunker gear, SCBA, and got to peruse the fire engine. It was fun for everyone!

Engineering

Miller Road Paving, Drainage and Utility Improvements

Northbound Chiesa Road at the Miller intersection remains closed according to the approved traffic control plan. Tiseo Paving Company continued placing concrete for the westbound lanes of Miller Road, southbound Chiesa Road, and the side streets and driveways. Their subcontractor worked on formwork for the inlet tops. Asphalt for the concrete‑to‑asphalt pavement transitions is scheduled to be placed on Saturday.


Dalrock/SH66 Utility Relocations

A & M Construction and Utilities finished installing the sanitary sewer line. The line was tested and camera inspection completed. The contractor is working to schedule the subcontractor to coat the inside of the manholes. The water lines, sewer lines and manhole being abandoned were filled with grout Thursday. The contractor is working on pavement restoration and cleanup of the site.

Alley Reconstruction: Rice/Tulane Dr, Meadowlark Ln, University/Knightsbridge Dr, & Sara Dr/Westwood Cir

Final walkthrough completed last week. The punch list is now being compiled.

Next Week's Meetings

City Council

Regular meetings occur the first and third Tuesdays of every month. Work Sessions occur the Monday preceding the those meetings. The next meeting is...


November 7 @ 7pm

Work Session - November 6 @ 6pm

(check agenda once posted for any updates)

Oct.

23

CIP Task Force

Monday, October 23, 5:30pm @ City Hall

Oct.

24

Planning & Zoning Commission

Tuesday, October 16, 6:45pm @ City Hall

View More Upcoming Meetings

The Rowlett Action Center

Your one-stop-shop for assistance!

Call 972.412.6100 for in-person help. 

Submit a Request or Ask a Question Here!
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