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Matthew Watson Promoted to Assistant City Manager
The City of Garland is pleased to announce the promotion of Matthew Watson to Assistant City Manager. Watson previously served as Garland’s Chief Financial Officer, where he played a central role in strengthening organizational operations, advancing long-range planning efforts and supporting major citywide initiatives.
In his new role as Assistant City Manager, Watson will oversee an expanded portfolio of City functions, providing high-level strategic direction and supporting initiatives that promote innovation, responsiveness and long-term organizational success. His leadership will be an important asset as Garland continues to advance major priorities and serve its residents with excellence.
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Allyson Steadman Promoted to Chief Financial Officer
The City of Garland is pleased to announce the promotion of Allyson Steadman to Chief Financial Officer. Steadman has been a key member of the City’s financial leadership team for nearly a decade, most recently serving as Garland’s Budget & Financial Strategy Director. In that role, she oversaw the development of the City’s annual budget and worked closely with departments across the organization to ensure responsible stewardship of public resources.
As Chief Financial Officer, Steadman will lead the City’s overall financial strategy, provide comprehensive fiscal oversight, and ensure the continued stability and sustainability of Garland’s financial operations. Her leadership will play a vital role in supporting the City’s priorities and strengthening its financial future.
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Garland Cultural Arts Cyber Monday Sale
Garland Cultural Arts welcomes the holiday season with a special Cyber Monday sale, bringing families closer to the unforgettable experience of live entertainment with 30% off of select shows and events.
These Cyber Monday deals are only good Monday, Dec. 1. Ticket purchasers can use code CYBER prior to selecting seats/tickets for the ultimate holiday gift experience. Learn more.
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Fifth & State Episode 6 Available Monday, Dec. 1
Fifth & State is your go-to podcast for real talk about Garland, straight from the top. Join Mayor Dylan Hedrick as he goes off-script to talk about the people, decisions and behind-the-scenes moments that shape our city.
In the latest Fifth & State episode Mayor Hedrick is joined by Director of Planning & Development Nabila Nur to talk about how Garland plans, guides and manages development — everything from new businesses and housing to redevelopment, zoning and long-term city growth.
The new episode drops Monday on Apple, Spotify or YouTube — and catch new episodes the first Monday of every month!
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Garland Square on Ice Now Open
The magic of the season is alive at Garland Square on Ice, Downtown Garland’s must-see winter experience! Through Sunday, Jan. 4, Garland Square transforms into a sparkling holiday wonderland — complete with a full-sized outdoor ice-skating rink, festive lights and family fun that will warm your heart (even on the chilliest days).
Grab your skates or rent a pair and hit the ice beneath the glow of twinkling lights. Whether you’re showing off your figure 8s or just trying to stay upright, you’ll make memories worth melting for! Get your tickets today!
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Christmas on the Square Thursday, Dec. 4
Our biggest event of the season is back again this week on the Downtown Garland Square. Step into a world of holiday magic at A Garland Christmas on the Square, our annual tree-lighting ceremony.
The festive fun begins at 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, and includes live music, live reindeer, a snow hill and photos with Santa.
Enjoy delicious treats from Downtown eateries and food vendors, explore artisan crafts and experience the magic of Christmas lights and train rides for the little ones.
Don't miss this delightful yuletide celebration!
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'Tis the Season to Give Back
Looking for a way to support your community this holiday season?
The Garland Fire Department, Garland Fire Association and Parks & Recreation Department have partnered to make this year's Toy Drive the best one yet. Drop off new, unwrapped toys at any Garland fire station or recreation center through Monday, Dec. 15.
The Garland Youth Council is currently collecting warm winter clothing at all Garland recreation centers, libraries and City Hall through Tuesday, Jan. 6.
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Local Walmart Surprises Residents with Gifts
Residents in Garland’s Holiday Park neighborhood got an early holiday surprise last week. Local Walmart associates from the Walmart at North Garland Avenue and President George Bush Turnpike kicked off Black Friday shopping by gifting several of the store’s deals to houses around the neighborhood. Gifts included Beats wireless headphones, massagers, diamond earrings, coffee makers and more. View photos on Facebook.
The gifts were delivered with the help of Mayor Dylan Hedrick, District 7 Council Member Joe Thomas Jr. and the Garland Grinch. Thank you, Walmart!
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Music Made Here Friday, Dec. 5
Join us at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, for an evening of FREE live music on the Downtown Garland Square, as part of our Music Made Here Concert Series!
Mountain Natives is a husband-and-wife duo, originally from New Mexico but now local to North Texas. With a sound blending the intimacy of The Civil Wars and the charm of Sonny and Cher, they share music and stories that encourage and uplift.
Check out the full lineup in the Music Made Here Concert Series at VisitGarlandTX.com.
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Math Happens at the Garland Landmark Museum Saturday, Dec. 6
Heritage Crossing has partnered with the Math Happens Foundation to provide math for all ages, shared at all places.
Join us at the Garland Landmark Museum, 393 N. Sixth St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the first Saturday of each month to explore math-based activities and discover the beauty and relevance of mathematics in the world around us.
Questions? Email Heritage@GarlandTX.gov.
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Gingerbread House Party at the Library Saturday, Dec. 6
Get in the holiday spirit with our Gingerbread House Party! Tweens and teens ages 10 to 17 are invited to show off their confectionary cunning by building and decorating gingerbread houses out of graham crackers, frosting and candy treats at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Central Library, 625 Austin St.
Supplies available on first-come, first-served basis. No registration required.
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All Abilities Committee Applications Close Wednesday, Dec. 3
The Garland City Council is accepting applications for a new All Abilities Committee through Wednesday, Dec. 3. This committee will advocate for, support and improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities and their families. Potential members may be individuals with disabilities, family members or caregivers, experts, and professionals or community advocates. Once appointed, Committee members will meet bimonthly beginning in February.
Learn more and apply at GarlandTX.gov.
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Last Chance: Mapping Tool Available to Help Shape Garland's Next Comprehensive Plan
Residents have just a few more days to use a mapping tool to contribute their thoughts as part of Garland Forward, the City's process to a new Comprehensive Plan.
Know of a corridor or intersection that could be improved? An open space that needs attention? Or a spot in your neighborhood that could support new housing options or a neighborhood-scale business? Share your ideas on how to make it better, what changes you'd like to see or how to make our community and your neighborhood more welcoming. Or mark a place you love in Garland and tell us what makes it special.
You can add pins in six categories: Mobility & Connectivity; Neighborhoods & Housing; Corridors; Parks & Public Spaces; Environment and Infrastructure; and Community Assets & Ideas. A tutorial video is embedded to help with the process. Learn more.
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Garland Celebrates America Recycles Day
On Nov. 15, the Garland Sanitation Department partnered with Dallas College to celebrate America Recycles Day by hosting a community recycling event.
Residents were invited to drop off tires, electronics, textiles and paper for shredding, making it easy to responsibly dispose of hard-to-recycle items.
More than 30 volunteers contributed to the event’s success, including students from North Garland High School and the University of Texas at Dallas,
as well as other civic-minded community members. Together, they helped manage an impressive turnout of 275 vehicles.
The event collected:
- 80 tires
- 1,570 pounds of textiles
- 4,400 pounds of paper
- 8,963 pounds of electronics
This outstanding participation reflects the community’s commitment to sustainability and the dedication of Garland’s staff and volunteers.
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City Council Meetings
Dec. 1 and 2
The Garland City Council Work Session will begin at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1. The Regular Meeting will begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at City Hall, 200 N. Fifth St.
Upcoming Boards & Commissions meetings can be found on the Public Meetings calendar at GarlandTX.gov. View agendas at GarlandTX.gov and be sure to click the "subscribe" button to receive notifications when meeting agendas are posted.
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Public & Media Relations
P.O. Box 469002 | Garland, Texas 75046
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