Week in Review, Dec. 5, 2025

Dec. 5, 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's Annual Christmas Parade Rolls Tomorrow Morning
Richardson's 53rd annual Christmas Parade, entitled, "Holidays Around the World," will take place Saturday, Dec. 6 beginning at 9 a.m. The parade route stretches along Plano Road from Richardson Square Mall to Apollo Road.

The public is invited to stand or sit along the parade route and enjoy marching bands, floats and of course, Santa Claus!

Note regarding parking: There are no official event parking lots. Attendees are encouraged to carpool, utilize public transit or walk, if able. Parking is not allowed in residential areas, including apartment complexes.

Website: https://www.cor.net/christmasparade

Road Closures Planned Tomorrow Due to Parade
Beginning at 8 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, Plano Road will be closed to both northbound and southbound traffic between Columbia Drive and the entrance to Raising Cane's due to the Richardson Christmas Parade.

Other parade-related closures include:

• The intersection of Plano Road and Belt Line Road
• Apollo Road between Plano Road and Creekside Drive
• All Huffhines Park parking lots
• All east parking lots in Richardson Square, behind Lowe's and the old Sears building.

See Parade Closure Map

Access to these locations will not be available until the end of the parade.

Santa's Village Opens for the Season Tomorrow Night
Santa's Village is scheduled to open Saturday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. at Huffhines Park with the traditional "lighting of the Village" and the arrival of Santa on a firetruck. The free event includes many colorful time-treasured "dwellings" along with interactive activities in each; free photos with Santa; live entertainment; concessions for sale; and free parking.

Summary of event details:

Santa's Village
Huffhines Park, 1500 Apollo Rd.
Admission: Free
Dates: Saturday-Sunday Dec. 6-7; Friday-Sunday Dec. 12-14 and Dec. 19-21
Time: 6-9 p.m.

The village is also open to stroll through and enjoy Dec. 8-10 and Dec. 15-18 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. (dwellings are closed but the twinkling lights will be on).

Website: https://www.cor.net/SantasVillage Event weather hotline: 972-744-4301

Topping Off Ceremony Marks Milestone for New City Hall Construction
City staff, City Council members and other community leaders gathered this morning for a topping off ceremony at the site of the new Richardson City Hall, to celebrate the placement of the final beam at the highest point of the building. Attendees were able to write their names on the beam before placement.

"Topping off" symbolizes the completion of a building's structural phase, a significant milestone in the construction process. New City Hall, located near the corner of US 75 and Arapaho Road, is expected to be completed in early 2027 and is funded by the 2021 and 2023 Bond Programs.

Website: https://www.cor.net/NewCityHall

Street, Alley and Sidewalk Needs Considered for Possible 2026 Bond Election
At Monday's City Council work session, City staff provided the Council with a comprehensive overview of the City's streets, alleys and sidewalks and discussed recommended projects for inclusion in a possible 2026 bond election.

Candidate street and alley projects identified total $240.7M and cover more than 30 residential streets and almost 30 alleys, as well as 10 collector streets and four commercial streets. Two possible prioritization/funding scenarios were given for the street and alley program, in light of $90M-$115M available in funding for future bond scenarios.

Sidewalk project candidates were recommended totaling $15M.

The City Council has until February to decide on calling a bond election for voters to consider in May 2026.

Video: Monday's Presentation

Animal Shelter Offering Free Adoptions, Microchipping Dec. 8-14
In celebration of the Richardson Animal Shelter's recent remodeling, pet adoption fees will be waived and microchipping will be free of charge beginning Monday, Dec. 8 and lasting through Sunday, Dec. 14. Pet chipping normally costs $15; adoption fees range from $5-$35 depending on type of pet and age.

The Animal Shelter's newly renovated facility, located at 1330 Columbia Dr., officially reopened Nov. 12. As part of the voter-approved 2021 Bond Program, the Shelter received a new main entrance, entry façade and expanded staff offices as well as new storage rooms and minor updates to the break room and staff and public restrooms.

Website: https://www.cor.net/AnimalShelter

Richardson Earns Second Place Nationally for 2025 NNO
The Richardson Police Department (RPD) announced this week that Richardson has been awarded 2nd place in the nation for Category 2 (population 100,000-300,000) in the National Association of Town Watch 2025 National Night Out (NNO) competition. This recognition highlights RPD's efforts in celebrating National Night Out this year and its longstanding commitment to fostering police-community partnerships.

For NNO 2025, the department collaborated with local residents and businesses to organize block parties and park celebrations across the city, with participation from police officers, firefighters, city and state officials, volunteers and special guests, including Miss Texas.

National Night Out is held each year in Texas on the first Tuesday of October. Richardson has ranked in the top 10 nationally in Category 2 for the past eight years (and in the top two spots for the past six years).

Applications Still Open for Citizen Police Academy
Anyone aged 21 and up who lives or works in Richardson is encouraged to apply for the 2025 Richardson Citizen Police Academy. The program, which begins Spring 2026, offers an opportunity to learn about the Richardson Police Department (RPD) in a fun, interactive and academic environment. Students will participate in a mock SWAT raid, test their skills on the Department's driving course and have the opportunity to fire police weapons.

The goal of the Academy is to strengthen the partnership that has been forged between the police and the community which it serves.

The program meets from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, with one Saturday class. Applications close once all 20 spots are filled.

Website: Citizen Police Academy
Contact: PD Community Relations Unit, 972-744-4955

Lane Closures Expected on Campbell Road Near Eastside Development
In two phases, the right lane and deceleration lane of eastbound Campbell Road between US 75 and Greenville Avenue may be closed to traffic from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. as utility work takes place. In addition, the right turn lane of northbound US 75 onto eastbound Campbell Road may be partially closed during that time. The work is expected to be completed by late December.

Fiber Optic Work to Affect Lanes Near Belt Line/Lindale
The right lane of westbound Belt Line Road between Inge Drive and Lindale Lane, and the alley east of Lindale Lane between Belt Line Road and 230 feet south of Devonshire Drive, 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 completed by mid-January.

https://www.cor.net/projects

Richardson Chamber Grand Reopening Celebration Thursday
411 Belle Grove Dr.
Admission: Free for members; nonmembers $20
Thursday, Dec. 11
5:30-7:30 p.m.

The Richardson Chamber of Commerce invites the public to celebrate the holidays and the reopening of the organization's fully renovated office. Enjoy refreshments, tours of the new space, and the company of fellow community members and business leaders.

Website/registration: Grand Opening Holiday Celebration

Annual Toy and Food Drive Continues
The Fire Department's annual Toy and Food Drive continues through Monday, Dec. 15 and benefits the clients served by Network of Community Ministries. Collection bins are set up at 11 municipal facilities (locations listed below).

New toys and teen gifts and unexpired canned/boxed food items are welcome (please, no wheeled toys such as bicycles, scooters, wagons, skates or tricycles). Toys/gifts for babies and pre-teens are especially needed.

Bin locations:

• All Richardson Fire Stations
• Service Center, 1260 Columbia Dr.
• Richardson City Hall Annex, 2360 Campbell Creek Blvd., Suite 550
• Richardson City Hall, 2360 Campbell Creek Blvd., Suite 525
• Richardson Public Library, 2360 Campbell Creek Blvd., Suite 500
• Police Support Building, 200 N. Greenville Ave.

Drop off your items during regular business hours of the facility where the collection bin is located.

"The Nutcracker with Tuzer Ballet" Tomorrow
City Hall Council Chamber, 2360 Campbell Creek Blvd. Ste. 525
Admission: Free; no registration required
Saturday, Dec. 6
3:30-4 p.m. and 4:30-5 p.m.

The Tuzer Ballet Company presents two performances of excerpts from the classic holiday ballet The Nutcracker at this Library-sponsored event. All ages welcome!

Read to Dogs at "Tales for Tails" Sunday
Youth Services Storytime Room
Admission: Free ticket required; distribution starts at 2:45 p.m. day of event
Sunday, Dec. 7
3-4 p.m.

Children in grades K-4 are invited to work on their reading skills and meet some friendly canine companions as they read to live therapy dogs. Kids attend independently for 10-minute sessions with a dog. All ages are welcome to meet the dogs at 4 p.m.

https://www.cor.net/Library

At the Eisemann Center:

• RSO Presents "Holiday Classics" Tomorrow Night
  Hill Performance Hall
  Tickets: $26-$91 (tickets)
  Saturday, Dec. 6
  7:30 p.m.
  
  The Richardson Symphony Orchestra is joined by The First United Methodist Richardson Church Choir for a concert featuring joyful harmonies and timeless carols.

• New Art Exhibit Opens in Green Gallery; Free Reception Tonight
  Forrest and Virginia Green Mezzanine Gallery, upper level of lobby (elevator access)
  Admission: Free
  Through Dec. 27
  Mondays-Saturdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and during all public performances
  "First Friday" reception tonight (Friday, Dec. 5), 6-8 p.m.
  
  "Nonobjective Introspection: Uplifting Diversions for Difficult Times," is an exhibit of works by abstract artist Julie Shunick Brown. Brown's work captures a balance between precision and emotion, inviting viewers into a world of layered color and thoughtful abstraction. It's been described as delicate and ethereal, intuitive and nonobjective, and varies in style. More information: click here

• "Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel" Monday Night
  Bank of America Theatre
  Tickets: $43-$51 (tickets)
  Monday, Dec. 8
  7:30 p.m.
  
  Internationally acclaimed pianist Jeffrey Siegel illuminates piano masterpieces by legendary composers by pairing performance with captivating remarks and enthusiasm. Monday's concert features the romantic music of Chopin, followed by a brisk Q&A.

At UT Dallas:

• Free Arts Showcases Continue Tonight, Monday with Dance, Acting, Directing
  University Theatre, 800 W. Campbell Rd.
  Admission: Free
  Dance Showcase Friday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m.
  "Under the Moon: Acting 1 Showcase" Monday, Dec. 8, 6 p.m.
  "Law and (Dis)Order" Directing Showcase Monday, Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m.
  
  Students from UT Dallas' Bass School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology are sharing their talents with the community in a variety of showcases. Dance Technique students will present several dance styles including ballet, contemporary, jazz and tango. The acting showcase features scenes and monologues from plays by Jane Anderson, Kimberly Belflower, Arthur Miller, Tennessee Williams, August Wilson and more. At the directing showcase, experience excerpts from student-created works inspired by diverse source materials.
  
  Website: click here

• "Mini Movie Marathon" features North Dallas Filmmakers Tomorrow
  ATC Lecture Hall (ATC 1.102), 800 W. Campbell Rd.
  Admission: Free
  Saturday, Dec. 6
  6:30 p.m.
  
  This public short film showcase features independent filmmakers from the North Dallas area presenting a curated selection of eight short films. Enjoy the screenings and take part in Q&A discussions, networking and behind-the-scenes conversations about the filmmaking process. The event offers creative and academic insights for aspiring artists and highlights the craft of storytelling through film.

• "The Kraken's Tooth" Animated Short Film Premiere Tuesday
  ATC Lecture Hall (ATC 1.102), 800 W. Campbell Rd.
  Admission: Free
  Tuesday, Dec. 9
  7-9:30 p.m.
  
  Made by a team of more than 30 students over two and a half semesters, this short film features three pirate scallywags who, after a night of drinking, unexpectedly encounter a nefarious foe: their bar tab! Will they escape with their gold intact, or be forced on a journey like never before?

Community Theater

• "The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge" Opens Tonight at The Core Theatre
  518 W. Arapaho Rd., Ste. 115
  Tickets: $15-$20 (tickets)
  Dec. 5-21
  Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m.; Sundays 3 p.m.
  
  A year after his miraculous transformation, Ebenezer Scrooge is back to his old ways and is suing Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future for breaking and entering, kidnapping, slander, pain and suffering, attempted murder and the intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Community Music

• Richardson Community Chorale: "Home for the Holidays" Next Friday
  First United Methodist Church Richardson, 503 N. Central Expwy.
  Admission: Free
  Friday, Dec. 12
  7 p.m.
  
  The Richardson Community Chorale presents their annual holiday concert, a family-friendly performance that will include sing-alongs with some of your favorite holiday songs and carols.
  
  More information: www.rcchorale.org

https://www.ArtsinRichardson.com

Ideas for a More Sustainable Holiday
Did you know that decorations, wrapping paper and even greeting cards can have a negative impact on the environment? The excesses of year-end holidays add about 25 percent more waste to landfills than during any other period, according to a study by Stanford University.

Here are some tips to help you celebrate the holidays more sustainably:

1. Bring along reusable bags of different sizes when shopping for food and gifts.
2. Opt for unflocked, unglittered, natural elements when decorating, such as a real Christmas tree and a natural wreath on the door. All can be recycled into mulch.
3. Try kraft paper, reusable gift boxes and bags to wrap packages instead of "traditional" wrapping paper, as most wrapping paper has an inseparable plastic film to the paper, making the material unrecyclable.
4. Choose wisely when it comes to greeting cards, as cards/envelopes decorated with foil and/or glitter are not recyclable.
5. Opt for cloth napkins and non-disposable dishes and utensils at holiday dinners.

Website: December Richardson Today (Article on pg. 6)

How to Keep Poinsettias Beautiful This Month and Beyond
If your holiday décor includes live poinsettias, their beauty doesn't have to end when the holidays are over. Though poinsettias are tropical and relatively delicate, they are a perennial and can keep coming back each holiday by following this advice from the experts at Texas A&M AgriLife:

• Take care in transporting-if they're not already in a protective sleeve at purchase, place them in the car where they remain upright, stable and not crushed by any objects.
• Make sure the soil is draining well and water only when you feel the soil surface is dry. (Be sure to remove any decorative outer foil when watering and make sure plant is finished draining before replacing the foil.)
• Keep the plant housed in temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees.
• A fully colored poinsettia needs 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
• After the holidays, cut plant back to about 6 inches, repot it into the next largest container, and follow the directions for water, fertilizer, pruning and nighttime light deprivation (needed each fall), located here.

Be sure to check out the City's poinsettia tree, made of more than 200 living poinsettias, that's located in the lobby of the Eisemann Center this month.

Driver/Loader, SWS Recycling ($44,214 - $61,513 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.

IT Support Specialist I ($60,660 - 89,354)
The Information Technology Department is currently looking for an individual who can perform hardware/software support for the City's computer and technology resources, and serve as IBM i5 operator on an as-needed basis. Perform related work as required.

Fleet Porter PT ($20.56/hr to $28.86/hr)
The Facilities and Fleet Department is currently looking for an individual who can perform general automotive maintenance and assists Fleet Technicians with general repairs and welding on City vehicles/equipment.

https://www.cor.net/Jobs

Pet of the Week
Junior is a 6-year-old Plott Hound mix with a heart of gold. Known for his sweet demeanor and friendly nature, Junior is the epitome of a gentle companion. His calm temperament makes him an excellent choice for families or individuals seeking a laid-back friend. Despite his size, he's a softie who loves nothing more than spending time with his human friends, whether it's for a leisurely walk or a quiet evening at home. Junior's loving nature and serene presence make him the perfect candidate to bring joy and companionship into any home.

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

City Council Links

Council Members
Meeting Agendas and Documents
Videos

To read previous Week in Reviews,

visit https://www.cor.net/WIR.