Open Forum is an opportunity for citizens to address the Council so that it can hear specific concerns or general comments. The Mayor and Council welcome any citizen wishing to address the City Council during the Open Forum providing that no public hearing is scheduled for the topic and comments be limited to (3) three minutes. The City Council does not typically respond to citizen concerns or take action during the meeting as a result of comments offered during Open Forum. If directed by Council, the appropriate action to address a citizen’s concerns will be initiated by a member of the City Manager’s staff during normal business hours.
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expires On: 12/31/2025
Do your part to help Keep Rockwall’s Waterways Clean! Be on the lookout for pollutants that can damage our natural environment. If you see any illicit/illegal discharges into our Inlets, Storm Sewers, Lakes, Creeks and Streams please report by calling (972)-772-6791.
Types of Illicit/illegal discharges: Chlorinated backwash and draining associated with swimming pools, fertilizers, pesticides, lawn/landscape waste, household toxins, Industrial discharges, oil, anti-freeze, paint, cleaning fluids, sanitary sewer discharges, septic tank discharges, wash waters from commercial/industrial activities and washing machine discharges.
Rockwall, Texas – December 12, 2024 – The streets of Downtown Rockwall came alive on Saturday, December 7, 2024, for the annual Hometown Christmas, bringing together families, friends, and local businesses for a day full of festive fun and community spirit. Despite the weather challenges, the event was a spectacular success, showcasing the creativity and holiday cheer of our community.
This year's parade floats embraced the theme,"My Favorite Christmas Movie", and the competition was fierce as participants dazzled the crowd with their imaginative displays. After much deliberation, the following winners were announced:
Best Theme: Providence Academy Mayor's Award:
Rockwall Parks and Recreation Department Best Corporate Award: Rockwall Crossing Orthodontics Small Fry Award: Rockwall Children's Advocacy Center
"We are so proud of everyone who participated and brought their holiday spirit to life", said Tarren Oswald, Kiwanis Club of Rockwall County Club President. "This event is a testament to the amazing community we have here in Rockwall."
Following the parade, the festivities continued in Downtown Rockwall with a variety of free activities for families to enjoy. Guests delighted in food trucks, holiday shopping, and photos with Santa in front of the stunning 24-foot Christmas tree. Kids had a blast sliding down the snow hill, bouncing in inflatable gingerbread houses, and participating in holiday crafts. Musical performances from local schools and bands added a festive soundtrack to the day, while the Find Frosty Scavenger Hunt kept young adventurers entertained.
The evening concluded with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, where attendees enjoyed live music, hot chocolate, cookies, and crafts in a cozy indoor setting due to the weather. Santa himself made a special appearance, spreading holiday cheer to children and families as the beautifully lit tree became the centerpiece of the night. We are thankful for the Rockwall Women's League for supplying hundreds of cookies for the community for over 30 years.
For more photos and highlights from the day, visit the City of Rockwall's Facebook page.
November 2024
Posted On: 11/20/2024 Expired On: 11/29/2024
Rockwall, Texas – November 20, 2024 – City offices will be closed next Thursday and Friday, Nov. 28 and 29 for Thanksgiving. Republic Waste will run one day behind on Thursday and Friday.
Posted On: 11/15/2024 Expired On: 11/20/2024
Rockwall, Texas – November 15, 2024 – @ ROCKWALL AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PARTNERSHIP LUNCHEON STATE OF THE CITY OF ROCKWALL: CELEBRATING COMMUNITY Wednesday, November 20, 2024 – 11:30 AM The Bridge at Lakepointe Church
695 IH-30 - Rockwall, TX 75087 (stand-alone building at rear, west side of property)
A quorum of members of the Rockwall City Council will be present at this event; however, neither formal deliberation of city business nor formal action on the part of the City Council is contemplated, and no minutes will be prepared related to this event.
Posted On: 11/8/2024 Expired On: 11/11/2024
Rockwall, Texas – November 08, 2024 – This Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10, all intersections at FM 3549 (Stodghill) and the I-30 Frontage Road will be operating as an "all stop." Stop signs will be in place to direct traffic while signals are down for maintenance. Flashing red lights are treated as a stop sign. Please drive carefully and expect delays.
October 2024
Posted On: 10/14/2024 Expired On: 10/19/2024
Rockwall, Texas – October 14, 2024 –
Road Closure Alert on I-30 Exit 67 Westbound:
The westbound exit ramp at I-30 Exit 67 (Ridge Road, in front of Walmart) will be closed for overnight construction from 9 PM Friday, October 18th, until 5 AM Saturday, October 19th. Please plan to use Exit 68 (Hwy 205) during this time. Drive safe! Sign up for TxDOT I-30 Rockwall County text/ email alerts here..
September 2024
Posted On: 9/27/2024 Expired On: 10/6/2024
Rockwall, Texas – September 27, 2024 – The City of Rockwall is thrilled to announce the return of the much-anticipated annual event, the Rockwall Rib Rub Run and Roll, set to take place on Saturday, October 5th, 2024, at Harry Myers Park and Downtown Rockwall. This family-friendly event promises a full day of activities, including a BBQ competition, races, a car show, and live music.
Start the day off at Harry Myers Park with a stride in our 1 Mile, 5K, or 10K races, with runs beginning at 8:30 AM. Runners of all ages are encouraged to participate.
Following the race, the BBQ competition heats up as grill masters from around the region compete in categories such as Spare Ribs, ½ Chicken, and Brisket. The BBQ competition, officially sanctioned by the Outlaw BBQ Association, boasts an $80 entry fee for meat categories, with an additional $20 fee for those entering the Jackpot Beans contest. This competition is a perfect opportunity for BBQ enthusiasts to showcase their skills and savor some of the best flavors in Texas.
Car enthusiasts will not want to miss the Car Show hosted by Rockwall Breakfast Rotary Club taking place in Downtown Rockwall from 9 AM to 2 PM. Participants are invited to register their classic and custom cars to compete for trophies and enjoy a day filled with automotive excellence.
Residents can also expect a day full of live music, pedal car races, and fun! The Rockwall Rib Rub Run and Roll is a perfect outing for families, food lovers, and fitness enthusiasts alike.
We invite all members of the community and surrounding areas to join us for this spectacular day. For more information or to register for any of the day’s events, please visit https://www.rockwall.com/ribrub.asp
For more information:
Rockwall Parks and Recreation DWeaver@rockwall.com
(972) 772-6470
August 2024
Posted On: 8/22/2024 Expired On: 8/29/2024
Rockwall, Texas – August 22, 2024 – Rockwall City Manager, Mary Smith, is proposing a reduced tax rate of 24.745 cents per $100 of assessed value for the upcoming fiscal year, October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. This represents a decrease of 2.27 cents from the previous year, reflecting the City’s commitment to maintaining low taxes.
The budget process continues with a public hearing during the City Council meeting on Tuesday, September 3 at 6pm.
City Council will consider adoption on the FY2025 budget on Monday, September 16.
Posted On: 8/22/2024 Expired On: 8/29/2024
Rockwall, Texas – August 22, 2024 – The City of Rockwall is currently seeking dedicated residents to serve on a City Charter Review Commission. This vital commission will play a crucial role in ensuring that the City charter continues to provide effective guidance for Rockwal'sl governance, structure, and operations.
The City Charter is a foundational document that outlines the structure and powers of the City's government. It is good practice to review the charter periodically to ensure it remains up-to-date, reflects current practices, and aligns with state law. The Charter Review Commission will thoroughly examine the existing charter and may recommend revisions or updates to City Council within a 6-month time frame. The City Council may then decide to submit revisions or updates for voter consideration in the May or November General Election.
Residents who are passionate about Rockwall's future and wish to contribute to the City's governance are encouraged to apply. The deadline for submitting an application is Monday, September 2, 2024. Applications can be filled out online:
Rockwall, Texas – August 09, 2024 – Please be advised that our GIS and Cityworks Permitting System is undergoing a software upgrade today, August 9th through Monday, August 12th, 2024. Both the GIS maps, and our Cityworks Permitting Software will not be available during this time. We will be quickly working to restore normal services. We apologize for any inconvenience. Public Safety mapping will not be affected.
Posted On: 8/1/2024 Expired On: 8/4/2024
Rockwall, Texas – August 01, 2024 –
Friday, August 2nd, from 10 PM to Saturday, August 3rd, at 9 AM:
All eastbound lanes on I-30 will be closed at Horizon Road.
All eastbound traffic will exit at Horizon Road, continue on the frontage road in 2 lane format, and re-enter I-30 just past the Home Depot Store.
All traffic from the Harbor/ Heath areas should find the earliest connection to Ralph Hall Parkway to get to Goliad/ 205 to proceed North since Ridge Road will be closed at the underpass.
Westbound I-30 traffic will be reduced to one lane starting east of 205.
Saturday, August 3rd, from 10 PM to Sunday, August 4th, at 9 AM:
All westbound lanes on I-30 will be closed from exit 67 to Horizon Road.
All westbound traffic will exit at exit 67/ Ridge Road in front of Walmart, and will continue on the frontage road to re-enter I-30 on the Horizon Road entrance ramp.
All traffic from Downtown/ North Rockwall will be funneled to Goliad to proceed West or South since Ridge Road will be closed at the underpass.
Eastbound I-30 traffic will be reduced to one lane starting at Horizon Road.
July 2024
Posted On: 7/26/2024 Expired On: 8/2/2024
Please be advised that the traffic lanes on Horizon Bridge have been adjusted as of this week. These changes are as follows:
Southbound Traffic (from Snuffer’s to The Harbor): Traffic has been reduced to a single lane, accommodating both left-turn and straight movements.
Northbound Traffic (from The Harbor to Snuffer’s): There is a designated left-turn lane for access to I-30 and a straight lane for continuing to Snuffer’s and Lakeside Village.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as TxDOT implements these necessary adjustments. Please plan your travel accordingly and drive safely..
Posted On: 7/22/2024 Expired On: 8/4/2024
Rockwall, Texas – July 22, 2024 – TxDOT has released additional information about the Horizon Bridge Construction. Please also take note of mainlane closures between Bass Pro and Dalrock next week. TxDOT will begin work on an extensive construction project on Horizon Bridge, which crosses Interstate 30, and will cause mainlane closures on the Interstate. Lanes on I-30 will be closed Friday night, August 2nd and Saturday night, August 3rd from 10pm to 9am the next day. Side street and lane closures will begin around 8pm, allowing for construction at 10pm. Horizon Bridge will be reopened Sunday August 4th.Sign up for TxDOT I-30 Rockwall County text/ email alerts here.
Posted On: 7/19/2024 Expired On: 7/19/2024
Rockwall, Texas – July 16, 2024 –The City of Rockwall advises residents and commuters of upcoming single lane closures on the I-30 Frontage Roads. These closures are necessary to facilitate ongoing construction and maintenance work. Please note that one lane will remain open at all times to ensure traffic flow.
Posted On: 7/16/2024 Expired On: 8/4/2024
Rockwall, Texas – July 16, 2024 – TxDOT will begin work on an extensive construction project on Horizon Bridge, which crosses Interstate 30. The bridge will be closed Friday, August 2nd and Saturday, August 3rd from 9pm-9am.
Friday Night (August 2nd, 2024): At 9pm, all eastbound lanes on I-30 will be closed at Horizon Road. All eastbound traffic will exit at Horizon Road, continue on the frontage road and re-enter I-30 just past the Home Depot Store. Westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane starting east of 205. All lanes are expected to be open at 9am Saturday morning.
Saturday Night (August 3rd, 2024): At 9pm, all westbound lanes on I30 will be closed from exit 67 to Horizon Road. All westbound traffic will exit at exit 67/ Ridge Road in front of Walmart, and will continue on the frontage road to re-enter I30 on the Horizon Road entrance ramp. Eastbound I-30 traffic will be reduced to one lane starting at Horizon Road. All lanes are expected to be open at 9am Sunday morning.
Additionally, the underpass on Ridge Road will also be closed, making Goliad Street/205, John King Blvd, and FM 3549 the only roadways allowing north and south bound traffic during this time.
We want to stress the careful planning being done by our Police, Fire, and EMS teams to ensure this project goes smoothly and with minimal disruption. All affected businesses will be contacted to ensure they are aware of the upcoming closures and can make necessary arrangements. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience as TxDOT works to improve our infrastructure. Specific information about traffic control plans to come.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Posted On: 7/10/2024 Expired On: 7/17/2024
Rockwall, Texas – July 10, 2024 – The City Council of Rockwall has recently passed updated regulations for the installation of artificial turf on residential and non-residential properties, effective June 3, 2024, under Ordinance No. 24-21. These new rules reflect our commitment to maintaining aesthetic and environmental standards while accommodating the growing interest in artificial turf.
Key Points of the New Regulations:
Non-Residential Properties:
Prohibition: Artificial turf is prohibited on all non-residential properties within Rockwall.
Special Exceptions: The Planning and Zoning Commission may grant exceptions at the time of site plan review. These exceptions are considered when artificial plant materials are integral to the operations of the proposed land use or serve as an on-site amenity.
Residential Properties:
Front Yard Restrictions: Artificial turf is not permitted in the front yard of any residential property.
Side and Rear Yard Restrictions: Artificial turf is not allowed in side or rear yards if visible from public right-of-way, open space, or public parkland. Such installations must be behind a solid fence and not visible from other properties or public areas.
Public Easements and Right-of-Way: Installation of artificial turf is prohibited in these areas.
Special Allowance: Despite visibility restrictions, up to 400 square feet of artificial turf is permitted on any residential property. This allowance is designed to accommodate features like putting greens or areas around swimming pools.
Installation Process for Residential Properties:
Apply for a Building Permit: This is mandatory for any artificial turf installation.
Submit a Site Plan/Grading Plan: The plan must show the area and square footage of the proposed installation and confirm that no changes will be made to the existing grade of the property.
Provide a Material Specification Sheet: This sheet must confirm that the artificial turf is a non-PFAS product.
Failure to adhere to these requirements will result in a violation of the property maintenance code.
For more detailed information, residents can refer to Article 08, Landscape and Fence Standards, of the Unified Development Code (UDC).
Rockwall, Texas – July 03, 2024 – The City has received notification that a mosquito has tested positive for West Nile Virus caught in Fox Chase Park. The City’s protocol calls for bodies of water to be treated with a larvicide and to fog the area in which positive test was found.
Fogging will take place July 8th, 10th, and 12th between the hours of 10pm and 6am within a half-mile radius of the area where the mosquito was trapped. If you have a koi pond or do not want your property fogged (see attached map of spray area) please email WYoung@rockwall.com. The City will continue to monitor all traps and take appropriate action as necessary throughout the remainder of the season.
Mosquito Safety The recent storms and significant rainfall—35.11 inches year to date compared to 12.82 inches for the same period in 2023—have created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn and can spread diseases such as West Nile Virus and Zika. Recommendations to reduce help exposure:
Use Insect Repellent: Apply an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus every time you go outside. Follow the instructions on the label for safe use.
Drain Standing Water: Regularly remove water from empty cans, tires, buckets, clogged rain gutters, and saucers under potted plants. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water.
Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
The City traps mosquitoes weekly in north, central, and south Rockwall from May through October. The mosquitoes are sent to Austin for testing for pathogens such as West Nile Virus. If a mosquito tests positive for a pathogen, a fogging operation is scheduled within a 1/2-mile radius around the positive trap. The City of Rockwall has not had a positive test since 2019.
Rockwall, Texas – June 28, 2024 – City offices will be closed on Thursday, July 4th, in observance of Independence Day. Regular office hours will resume on Friday, July 5th. Trash collection services will operate on their regular schedule. The City of Rockwall extends its best wishes to all residents for a safe and enjoyable Independence Day celebration.
Posted On: 6/25/2024 Expired On: 7/4/2024
Rockwall, Texas – June 25, 2024 – Rockwall is gearing up to celebrate our nation's independence with a full day of family-friendly activities on the 4th of July! Join us as we honor this special day with a series of exciting events that promise fun for all ages. read more...
Posted On: 6/19/2024 Expired On: 6/22/2024
Rockwall, Texas – June 19, 2024 – On Thursday and Friday, June 20th and 21st, the City of Rockwall will be conducting important smoke testing on our sewer systems in Fontana Ranch and Timber Creek Estates. This routine procedure helps us identify any leaks, cracks, or other issues in the sewer lines to ensure the efficiency and safety of our infrastructure.
What is Smoke Testing? Smoke testing involves introducing a non-toxic smoke into the sewer lines. The smoke will travel through the pipes and escape through any openings, making it easy to detect potential problems. This smoke is harmless, odorless, and non-staining.
During the testing period, residents may notice smoke coming from manholes, sewer systems, or even from the ground. Please be assured that this smoke poses no health risks and will dissipate quickly.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to maintain and improve our sewer system. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the City of Rockwall Water/ Wastewater Department at (972) 771-7730.
Posted On: 6/11/2024 Expired On: 6/30/2024
Rockwall, Texas – June 11, 2024 – We are excited to share some fantastic news with you! Rockwall Founders Day and Rockwall Concerts By The Lake have been nominated for the 2024 Best of DFW awards in two prestigious categories: Best Entertainment in Family Friendly Show and Arts and Culture Event.
Voting is open now through June 30, and we encourage everyone to vote daily to help us bring this honor home to Rockwall.
Rockwall, Texas – June 05, 2024 – In response to the severe weather storm event that struck the Rockwall community on May 28, 2024, the City Council has approved an expenditure of up to $78,000 through the city's solid waste contractor, Republic Services, to bring in additional boom trucks for enhanced storm-related tree and debris removal.
The aftermath of the recent storm has left numerous homes and areas across Rockwall covered with fallen trees and debris, posing challenges to residents and obstructing roadways. To expedite the cleanup process and ensure the safety and well-being of Rockwall residents, the City Council has taken decisive action to allocate funds for the acquisition of essential equipment.
City Manager Mary Smith states "These additional boom trucks represent a proactive measure to address the significant amount of storm-related debris accumulated throughout our community. We understand the inconvenience and potential hazards posed by the debris, and we are committed to swiftly restoring normalcy to Rockwall. We are asking the Council to allow us to contribute funds toward getting this extra clean up so it can go faster."
The deployment of these boom trucks will facilitate efficient removal of tree and yard debris, minimizing disruptions and enhancing the overall safety and aesthetics of the city. However, residents are advised that while efforts will be made to expedite the cleanup process, pick-up times will take multiple weeks due to the volume of debris and ongoing storm-related activities.
We urge residents to cooperate by placing debris on the curb/ grass and refrain from blocking roadways or storm drainage systems. Clearing storm drains is crucial to mitigate flooding risks during upcoming storm activities.
Residents are reminded to adhere to the following guidelines: • Place debris on the curb/ grass, not in the street, to facilitate efficient removal. • Do not block roadways or impede water drainage to ensure the safety of pedestrians and prevent flooding. • Exercise patience as crews work diligently to address debris removal in various areas of the Rockwall community.
May 2024
Posted On: 5/30/2024 Expired On: 6/6/2024
Rockwall, Texas – May 30, 2024 – Essential Information for Residents...
Posted On: 5/28/2024 Expired On: 5/29/2024
Rockwall, Texas – May 28, 2024 – A severe thunderstorm swept through Rockwall, TX this morning, leaving extensive damage and causing significant disruptions. The storm, characterized by high winds, heavy rain, flooding, and lightning, has resulted in widespread power outages and fallen trees.
“As of 3 p.m., more than 600,000 homes and businesses were without power. Due to the extreme nature of the damage, customers should prepare for extended outages. In many cases, complete reconstruction of electric facilities will be required, including replacing utility poles and transformers before new power lines can be installed. Oncor vegetation management personnel must also remove tree limbs and other debris from lines before repairs can be made. Oncor teams are mobilized and we have requested additional support from utility partners across Texas and other states. Safety for our teams and the public remains Oncor’s number one priority. If you see a downed power line, please stay away, keep pets and others away and call 911 immediately. In addition to the downed line potentially being energized, anything touching the power line, such as a tree branch, could also be energized. Please do not touch the power line or anything else touching it. To report a power outage or check the status, text OUT to 66267, use the MyOncor app, click “Report an Outage” on the map. We recognize the challenges of being without power and greatly appreciate yours and our customer’s patience as work continues. There will be further updates as they become available” said ONCOR Area Manager, Kristy Tyra.
Local emergency services and utility companies are working diligently to restore power and clear debris. To report outages, please use the link below. Please anticipate a power recovery time of 12-24 hours.
We appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time and are grateful to our Public Safety and Public Works crews who are working tirelessly through these conditions.
Posted On: 5/23/2024 Expired On: 5/27/2024
Rockwall, Texas – May 23, 2024 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, May 27th, in observance of Memorial Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
March 2024
Posted On: 3/25/2024 Expired On: 3/31/2024
Rockwall, Texas – March 25, 2024 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, March 29, in observance of Good Friday. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
February 2024
Posted On: 2/8/2024 Expired On: 4/1/2024
Rockwall, Texas – February 08, 2024 – Temporary change in water disinfectant is essential for safe drinking water
The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) will temporarily change the disinfectant in its water treatment process from March 4 through April 1, 2024. The annual, routine change is necessary to maintain the regional system and year-round water quality for the more than two million customers NTMWD serves in a 10-county region in North Texas in a 2,200-square-mile service area. NTMWD provides a capacity of more than 876 million gallons of treated water per day through more than 610 miles of transmission pipelines.
Disinfection is a critical part of the water treatment process that keeps drinking water free of harmful microorganisms, such as parasites and viruses. Disinfection involves a two-step process that first treats the water at the treatment plant and then chloramine disinfectant (chlorine + ammonia) is added to maintain water quality on its journey through the miles of pipes to homes and businesses. During the temporary change, NTMWD suspends adding ammonia and uses free chlorine to keep water disinfected as it travels through pipes. It’s important to do this before summer because hotter temperatures can increase the potential for bacterial growth in pipes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this temporary conversion is a common practice for many water providers using chloramines for disinfection.
The absence of ammonia during these few weeks may make the chlorine disinfectant more noticeable to some people. There are simple steps to minimize taste, odor or skin sensitivities, including placing a pitcher of water in the refrigerator overnight or adding a slice of citrus to the water. Adding a crushed 1000 mg Vitamin C tablet to bath water will neutralize the chlorine.
“Protection of public health and keeping our water safe is a top priority,” said Zeke Campbell, NTMWD Assistant Director Water Treatment and Conveyance. “This common maintenance practice is an essential step in our advanced year-round treatment and disinfection process and does not increase the amount of chlorine in the system. The water remains safe to drink and use every day, and we continue to meet or surpass safe drinking water standards.”
NTMWD has conducted the temporary change in water disinfectant for over a decade, and continues to meet safe drinking water standards earning recognition from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) as a Superior Public Water System.
During the change, the cities and districts served by NTMWD may help move the chlorine-disinfected water through the system faster by flushing water from fire hydrants. The combination of converting to chlorine disinfectant and flushing the pipes helps maintain the system and safe water year round.
NTMWD conducts hundreds of tests daily in a state-certified laboratory to ensure water safety. Monthly and annual water quality reports are posted online, including results of tests conducted during the annual system maintenance. Customers can view this information at www.ntmwd.com/water-testing/. The TCEQ also conducts routine sampling and testing in NTMWD and city distribution systems through an independent laboratory to confirm water quality compliance with state and federal standards.
NTMWD has posted resources online, including fact sheets, frequently asked questions, infographics, videos, and guidelines for questions about water quality. NTMWD also recommends that customers review the water quality information posted on their city or utility websites.
Rockwall, Texas – January 17, 2024 – Rockwall residents will soon see a couple of rate increases on their City of Rockwall Utility bills. According to the solid waste contract with longtime partner, Republic Services, the rates for garbage and recycling will increase 3% for residents and businesses. This translates to an increase of $.65 per month. Under the agreement, Rockwall customers will continue to enjoy unlimited bulk trash pickup, twice per week garbage services, and weekly recycling. The new garbage rates apply to service starting in January and will appear on February bills.
Additionally, the City Council periodically sets water and sewer rates to collect sufficient funds to run the city’s water and wastewater operations, to pay debt service on large utility projects, and to maintain a minimum 60-day reserve in the event of a downturn in revenues.
At the same time, the city’s provider, North Texas Municipal Water District sets water rates to meet their expenses, debt service, and reserve needs. The rate adjustment this year was $.30 cents per thousand gallons of water. Wastewater treatment cost has increased an overall 19.7% year over year.
The new base rate will increase $.76 cents per month for water and $1.75 per month for wastewater. The volumetric rate will increase approximately $.30 cents per thousand gallons across all rate tiers for water and $.70 cents per thousand gallons for wastewater. Wastewater will continue to be billed based on a winter averaging to best reflect the domestic water usage metered at each home compared with the much higher summer months’ consumption.
Residents will see no increase in the cost for household hazardous waste collection. With this service, residents have access to convenient scheduled porch pickup of approved hazardous waste items. The Rockwall City Council granted a five-year contract extension to HHW Solutions, LLC, which has been the city’s hazardous waste provider for several years.
Posted On: 1/16/2024 Expired On: 1/21/2024
Rockwall, Texas – January 16, 2024 – Republic Services will resume their collection schedule Tuesday, 1/16.
If your normal trash day was Monday, it moves to Tuesday this week, and Tuesday moves to Wednesday.
Also this week, Thursday collection moves to Friday, and Friday moves to Saturday.
Posted On: 1/14/2024 Expired On: 1/16/2024
Rockwall, Texas – January 14, 2024 – Due to extreme cold temps… Republic Services will not pick up trash and recycling tomorrow (Mon. 1/15). This is to protect the workers on the back of the trucks. Stay tuned for an update about Tuesday services.
Posted On: 1/9/2024 Expired On: 2/5/2024
Rockwall, Texas – January 09, 2024 – On Monday, February 5, the City of Rockwall will call an election to be held on May 4, 2024 for the purpose of electing three City Councilmembers – one each for Places 2, 4 and 6. Terms for all elected Rockwall City Councilmembers are for a period of two years. All three incumbents - Mark Moeller, Place 2, Sedric Thomas, Place 4, and Anna Campbell, Place 6 - are eligible to run for reelection.
An informational candidate packet for residents who may be interested in learning more about running for Rockwall City Council is available both at City Hall (385 S. Goliad on the 3rd floor, City Secretary’s Office) and online for download via the City Secretary’s webpage at http://www.rockwall.com/citysec.asp. The period for submitting an application for a place on the May 4 election ballot runs from Wednesday, January 17 through Friday, February 16.
It is anticipated that the City of Rockwall’s municipal election will again be administered by the Rockwall County Elections Department, as has been done in past years. Early voting will run from Monday, April 22 through Tuesday, April 30 (excluding Sunday). Election Day voting will be held Saturday, May 4. More information concerning specific polling locations and voting dates and times will be made available on both our city website and on the Rockwall County Elections Department website as soon as those details become available.
Please direct questions regarding ballots by mail, voter registration, designated voting locations, etc. to the Rockwall County Elections Department at rockwallvotes.com. Information concerning the Rockwall City Council municipal election may be directed to the City Secretary, Kristy Teague, at kteague@rockwall.com.
Posted On: 1/9/2024 Expired On: 1/16/2024
Rockwall, Texas – January 09, 2024 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, January 15, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 1/5/2024 Expired On: 1/12/2024
Rockwall, Texas – January 05, 2024 – At their meeting this week, the Rockwall City Council honored Rockwall Police Detective Phillip Young for receiving a Significant Case Award. The award came from the United States Secret Service and the National Computer Forensics Institute for Detective Young’s work on a detailed child exploitation case with local ties.
The suspect pled guilty and was sentenced to 50 years in prison. Detective Young is among a very few who receive this award, and we thank him and his peers for their outstanding service in protecting children.
Rockwall, Texas – December 29, 2023 – The Rockwall City Council honored City Manager Mary Smith for 25 years of service with the City of Rockwall. Mrs. Smith, a CPA, came here in 1998 as the Director of Finance, and was named City Manager in 2021. At a recent Council meeting, Mayor Trace Johannesen presented Mrs. Smith with a proclamation and plaque for her classic anniversary.
Mary Smith was promoted to the dual role of Assistant City Manager and Director of Finance in 2012, and after serving briefly as Interim City Manager starting in January of 2021, was named City Manager in August of the same year.
Mrs. Smith has overseen a lot of growth in her nearly three decades in Rockwall. Since 1998, the population has grown from about 15,300, to more than 51,000 today. The city budget was about $7 million and now is close to $50 million. Rockwall PD has grown from 33 officers to 97, and the Fire Department has grown from all volunteers to 66 full-time personnel.
Posted On: 12/22/2023 Expired On: 1/2/2024
Rockwall, Texas – December 22, 2023 – City of Rockwall Offices Closed 12/25-26 for Christmas and 1/1 for New Years. Trash pickup will be delayed by one day. Monday pickup will be moved to Tuesday and Tuesday pickup will be moved to Wednesday.
November 2023
Posted On: 11/20/2023 Expired On: 11/25/2023
Rockwall, Texas – November 20, 2023 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Thursday, November 23 and Friday, November 24, in observance of Thanksgiving. Republic Waste Services will not run on Thanksgiving Day, but Thursday’s garbage and recycling schedule will move to Friday and Friday’s schedule will move to Saturday.
October 2023
Posted On: 10/30/2023 Expired On: 11/6/2023
Rockwall, Texas – October 30, 2023 – The City of Rockwall has once again been approached by an organization wanting to legalize retail liquor sales in the city. Last week, Friends of Total Wine in Rockwall, which is a specific purpose committee, contacted the City Secretary and filed paperwork to apply for a petition for that purpose. Look for people canvassing the community as soon as today to get enough signatures to achieve their goal.
The petition process is long and governed by several precise steps. Once all the procedures are met and verified, then the potential legalization of alcohol sales in Rockwall may be brought before the voters to decide in the May 4, 2024 election.
The committee must collect 6,576 signatures, which is 35 percent of Rockwall’s registered voters who participated in the most recent gubernatorial election. The committee must then submit the signatures to the City Secretary by Friday, December 29, for review and authentication. The petition that is being circulated is on legal-sized (8.5”x14”) light green paper and is embossed with the official city seal at the top, right-hand corner of each page.
City of Rockwall elected and appointed officials take no official or formal stance on these matters. However, city officials do want to make the public aware of these petitions. If you have any questions concerning this matter, you may contact City Secretary Kristy Teague at kteague@rockwall.com or at (972) 772-6406.
September 2023
Posted On: 9/14/2023 Expired On: 9/21/2023
Rockwall, Texas – September 14, 2023 – Four new members have been selected for the City of Rockwall’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) for the new school year. In addition, eight members will return to the leadership organization. YAC helps teach high school-aged students about local government, while providing them with opportunities to hone their leadership skills.
The new students for the 2023-2024 year include Evan Haack, Ryker Hayes, Allison Nielsen, and Vincent Vento. Returning students include Contessa Barron, Miriam Gamez, Maddoc Johnson, Ellie McReynolds, James Martinez, Emily Nielsen, Kaylen Pruitt, and Keaton Steen.
August 2023
Posted On: 8/30/2023 Expired On: 9/4/2023
Rockwall, Texas – August 30, 2023 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, September 4, in observance of Labor Day. Republic Waste Services will run on the normal garbage and recycling collection schedule.
Posted On: 8/11/2023 Expired On: 8/25/2023
Rockwall, Texas – August 11, 2023 – Mayor Trace Johannesen and the Rockwall City Council recognized a large group of employees this week – with a “Life-Saving Award” for working together to save the life of a Farmer’s Market vendor.
On July 1, Farmer John (of State 28 Farm) suffered a cardiac arrest, and thankfully Rockwall Parks & Recreation employee Brian Escobar jumped into action to perform CPR. Soon after, fellow Parks employee Daniel Ramirez joined in to help. After 9-1-1 was called, Rockwall Police Officer Garrett Stewart took over chest compressions.
Next, Captain Lewis Johnson and Firefighters Bogdan Rusmanica and Clay Crawford, along with Rockwall County EMS personnel defibrillated the man. He was transported to a local hospital and was able to walk out after a short stay—even after a diagnosis of Sudden Cardiac Death!
Of note, as the patient left, the fire personnel as well as Police Sergeant Jose Urive, and Officers Sonja Doss, Cameron Parker and Aaron Woolverton packed up Farmer John’s market booth, and located the keys, then loaded all the products onto the vendor’s vehicle.
As City Manager, Mary Smith (who was on scene helping during the market) said, “Farmer John lives today, thanks to this group of dedicated people willing and able to jump into action and do the right thing. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of getting CPR training—today.”
Posted On: 8/10/2023 Expired On: 8/21/2023
Rockwall, Texas – August 10, 2023 – At its 6:00 p.m. meeting on Monday, August 21, 2023, the Rockwall City Council will hold a public hearing to receive comments as it considers adoption of a resolution establishing the Property Assessed Clean Energy (“PACE”) program in our city. Click here for more information.
Posted On: 8/10/2023 Expired On: 8/25/2023
Rockwall, Texas – August 10, 2023 – The City of Rockwall is accepting applications for students who wish to be considered for the 2023-2024 Rockwall Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The purpose of Rockwall’s YAC is to provide participation for local youth in municipal government and to teach students about how local government works. The Rockwall Youth Advisory Council provides opportunities for positive community impact through organized participation in various city-sponsored activities and events. YAC students may also be involved in initiatives that benefit local youth. The City Council will fill up to four vacancies on the YAC for this school year. Applicants should be freshmen through seniors and should preferably reside within the city limits of Rockwall.
For more information about the program and to submit an application online, please visit our Youth Advisory Council page. At least one letter of recommendation is required, and applications should be submitted no later than Friday, August 25. Letters of recommendation may be e-mailed to kteague@rockwall.com. Interviews will be scheduled for the afternoon of Thursday, August 31 with appointment selections being made by the Rockwall City Council at its Tuesday, September 5 meeting. Students who apply are asked to make themselves available after school on Thursday, August 31 for a brief (10 min.) interview at Rockwall City Hall. It should be noted that regular meetings of the YAC typically occur monthly, every first Thursday at 5:30 p.m. during the school year. Before applying, applicants should ensure their schedule permits time to regularly attend monthly meetings. Questions about the program may be directed to Kristy Teague, City Secretary, either by e-mail or by calling (972) 772-6406.
July 2023
Posted On: 7/18/2023 Expired On: 8/18/2023
Rockwall, Texas – July 18, 2023 – The Rockwall City Council appoints residents to most of the various Boards and Commissions in August, and they need members of the community to get involved. The Boards and Commissions help regulate and/or weigh-in on important topics in the business of what it takes to make a city run effectively and efficiently. The volunteers who step into these roles are a vital asset to Rockwall.
Members of all Boards and Commissions must be residents and registered voters of the City of Rockwall, and are encouraged to apply with varied levels of expertise. Once an applicant chooses their interests in the online submission, their application will remain on file for two years for council consideration.
The available positions are on a wide variety of boards, including the Historic Preservation Board, Parks and Recreation Board, Planning and Zoning Commission, Art Commission, and so much more. For a complete list and to learn more, click here: http://www.rockwall.com/citysec_boards.asp.
June 2023
Posted On: 6/30/2023 Expired On: 7/8/2023
Rockwall, County – June 30, 2023 – Weather permitting, the eastbound Interstate 30 frontage road will open to traffic at 3 p.m. Friday, July 7.
Motorists should be aware of a traffic switch at Dalrock Road, in which access to Dalrock Rd. will be limited. Eastbound traffic can only access Dalrock Rd. by exiting at Bass Pro Drive and traveling the eastbound I-30 frontage road. The current exit will remain open to allow access to the Sapphire Bay Development and Marina, but will not provide access to northbound Dalrock Rd. Traffic traveling from the President George Bush Turnpike will need to stay left at the I-30 interchange to access the frontage road.
Southbound Dalrock Rd. will have direct access to westbound I-30 only.
Drivers are urged to plan ahead for extra travel time.
As a part of the $142 million I-30 corridor expansion project, new frontage road bridges will be constructed across Lake Ray Hubbard from Bass Pro Drive to Dalrock Road. Additionally, the Dalrock Road interchange will be rebuilt. Future projects will widen I-30 and add continuous frontage roads throughout Rockwall County. The work is part of TxDOT’s Texas Clear Lanes effort to relieve congestion in major metropolitan areas.
As progress continues on this project, check drivetextas.org for daily lane closures. Any major scheduled closures will be announced in advance. Drivers also have the option to sign up for text alerts.
Posted On: 6/26/2023 Expired On: 7/4/2023
Rockwall, Texas – June 26, 2023 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal. The City Council meeting originally scheduled for Monday, July 3, has been cancelled, and the next regular meeting will be held on Monday, July 17.
Posted On: 6/14/2023 Expired On: 6/21/2023
Rockwall, Texas – June 14, 2023 – In Texas, severe weather can happen at any time, and as we’ve seen recently, severe thunderstorms may form in a matter of minutes, often bringing with them large hail, damaging winds, dangerous tornadoes and lightning. These storms may also produce very heavy rain, dropping several inches in the span of an hour, potentially causing hazardous flash flooding.
The City of Rockwall urges residents to be informed and prepare in advance for severe weather and other threats. Preparedness includes having an “all hazards” emergency action plan at home, at school, and at the office and being ready to put that plan into action when necessary.
Rockwall maintains numerous outdoor emergency warning sirens strategically placed throughout the city. Sirens are tested on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m., unless severe weather is in the area. Outdoor warning sirens are used to warn citizens who may be outdoors of an imminent severe weather event in the community and to encourage them to immediately seek shelter indoors. Sirens are not intended to warn citizens who may be indoors at the time of the event, although in some cases residents may hear the sirens while inside their home or business. When sirens sound, citizens who are outdoors should quickly move indoors and seek shelter in an innermost room, away from glass windows, and tune to a local news or radio station until it’s been conveyed that safe conditions have been restored. Remember to never call 9-1-1 when you hear sirens sound unless you have a true emergency that requires police or fire response. Since lives could be at stake, 9-1-1 phone lines must remain clear in order to address true emergencies in a timely manner.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways of receiving important safety-related information such as weather warnings. One such way is by purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio for use in your home and office. You may also tune to WBAP 820AM radio for instructions during a severe weather event. In addition, Rockwall County Emergency Management utilizes NIXLE, an emergency notification system that enables users to receive a text message when severe weather is imminent. To sign up for NIXLE, text RCOEM to 888-777 or visit the Nixle website. Lastly, if you have disabled emergency notifications on your mobile device, you are encouraged to turn these notifications back on. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) may be sent by authorized government including local and state public safety agencies such as FEMA, the FCC, the Department of Homeland Security, and the National Weather Service. It is important that residents receive these pertinent notifications, which are automatically sent and do not require “sign-up” as long as this function is enabled on your wireless device. For more information about WEA messages, you may visit the NOAA website.
For more information about severe weather and other hazards, please visit the KnowWhat2Do website.
Posted On: 6/2/2023 Expired On: 6/4/2023
Rockwall, Texas – June 02, 2023 – The City of Rockwall has contracted with Texas Bit, to make pavement repairs to West Interurban Street between North West Street and North Alamo Road. The repairs are scheduled to begin on Saturday, June 3, and be completed in one day “Weather Permitting.”
The street repairs will consist of removing the existing asphalt pavement followed by subgrade compaction and (HMAC) Asphalt Overlay. It is our intent to close the street to traffic during this process. Please allow additional time for your commute through the work zone. As with any roadway project, weather may impact the construction process and timelines.
During the construction we ask that no cars be parked on West Interurban Street. Please make sure that all vehicles are parked well off of the pavement to allow full roadway access to the construction equipment near the intersection of West Interurban Street and North West Street to provide additional turning radius for the trucks delivering asphalt to the site.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to call Jennifer Wolfe, at (972) 771-7730 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mrs. Wolfe will have a Street Department representative promptly return your call. For after hour construction related emergencies, please contact the Rockwall Police Department at (972) 771-7724.
Posted On: 6/1/2023 Expired On: 6/3/2023
Rockwall, Texas – June 01, 2023 – Atmos Energy will perform routine maintenance resulting in the safe removal of natural gas on Thursday, June 1, from approximately 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday, June 2, from 7:30 am to 10:30 a.m. near I-30 Frontage Road and South John King Boulevard in Rockwall. Atmos Energy remains focused on its vision to be the safest provider of natural gas services, and this system modernization work demonstrates a continued investment in safety, innovation, environmental sustainability, and our communities.
Atmos Energy is committed to protecting and preserving the environment, and this procedure is a necessary, safe, and standard industry practice used to extract natural gas from an isolated section of pipeline. Residents in the area may hear a noise and the scent of mercaptan, a harmless odorant that gives natural gas its “rotten egg” smell, may be present during the operation.
Atmos Energy customers will not experience any service interruption while the work is being performed, and city staff, public officials, 911 operators, and emergency responders have been advised.
May 2023
Posted On: 5/25/2023 Expired On: 6/1/2023
Rockwall, Texas – May 25, 2023 – At a special meeting on Tuesday, May 23, the Rockwall City Council selected Sedric Thomas to fill the Place 4 vacancy left when Trace Johannesen was elected as Mayor. Thomas brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served in many leadership roles, most recently as the Chairman of the Rockwall Planning & Zoning Commission.
Thomas moved to Rockwall with his family in 2017 from nearby Lavon, where he was a past City Councilmember and Planning & Zoning Commissioner. He works for the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) as a Financial Operations Manager. A U.S. Army Veteran, he continues to serve on the executive board for Rockwall County Helping Hands. He and his wife, Brooke, have three adult children currently serving in the U.S. Army, and one in elementary school.
Of his new selection, Thomas said, “It has been an honor serving on the Planning & Zoning Commission. The opportunity has allowed my family and me to continue fulfilling our purpose to give back to our country that has given us so much. I look forward to the opportunity to work with our amazing city staff to continue the preservation of American values Rockwall embodies.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Sedric to his new role on City Council,” said Rockwall Mayor Trace Johannesen. “His leadership and pragmatic thinking have been on display for us for many years, not just through the Planning & Zoning Commission, but through his selfless service to America in the U.S. Army. His addition will certainly level-up the team and I look forward to his contributions.” Mr. Thomas will start his term at the next meeting on June 5.
Posted On: 5/22/2023 Expired On: 5/29/2023
Rockwall, Texas – May 22, 2023 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, in observance of Memorial Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
March 2023
Posted On: 3/31/2023 Expired On: 4/7/2023
Rockwall, Texas – March 31, 2023 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, April 7, in observance of Good Friday. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
February 2023
Posted On: 2/22/2023 Expired On: 3/6/2023
Rockwall, Texas – February 22, 2023 – The City of Rockwall recently called an election to be held on May 6, 2023 for the purpose of electing the Mayor and three City Councilmembers, one each for Places 1, 3 and 5. Terms for all elected Rockwall City Councilmembers are for a period of two years. Two incumbents, Clarence Jorif (Place 3) and Dennis Lewis (Place 5), filed appropriate paperwork to appear on the ballot in hopes of serving an additional two-year term in office, and are uncontested in their races. Additionally, current Councilmember and Mayor Pro-Tem Trace Johannesen (Place 4) has filed for Mayor, and Tim McCallum has filed for Place 1; both are uncontested for the seats.
The filing deadline to submit an application to run for City Council in the General Election was Friday, February 17, and the last day to declare write-in candidacy on the ballot was February 21. The City Secretary did not receive candidate filings from anyone other than those listed above. Therefore, the Rockwall City Council will consider an ordinance cancelling the election due to no opposed candidates at its meeting on Monday, March 6. All four candidates will take the Oath of Office at the regular City Council meeting on Monday, May 15 to begin serving their terms.
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For additional information, please contact: Kristy Teague City Secretary City of Rockwall (972) 772-6406 kteague@rockwall.com
Posted On: 2/16/2023 Expired On: 2/23/2023
Rockwall, Texas – February 16, 2023 – Rockwall City Manager Mary Smith has officially named Edward Fowler as the Chief of the Rockwall Police Department. Fowler has been serving as Interim Chief since last August, after former Chief Max Geron retired from the role. The U.S. Marines veteran returned to his hometown after serving in the Gulf War, and has spent 33 years with the Rockwall Police Department, working his way up the ranks.
Chief Fowler began his law enforcement career with the Rockwall PD in 1990, serving in a number of leadership roles over the years, including Assistant Police Chief from 2020-2022 before his promotion to Interim Chief last summer. “Chief Fowler has demonstrated that he can lead the Rockwall Police Department, and that his experience in law enforcement coupled with his tenure with the City makes him the best person to lead the department into the future,” said Rockwall City Manager Mary Smith.
Starting as a patrol officer and field training officer, Chief Fowler later became a motorcycle officer and accident reconstructionist. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2002, supervising the patrol, community services, criminal investigations and SWAT divisions. In 2010, he was promoted to Lieutenant where he served as a division commander in patrol, administrative services, criminal investigation, and the SWAT Team. In 2017 he became Captain, and in 2020 he became Assistant Chief.
“I’m honored and privileged to have the opportunity to lead and care for an exceptional group of men and women who provide the highest levels of customer service to a fantastic community and the citizens that we serve,” said Chief Fowler. “I would also like to thank City Manager Mary Smith for her leadership and guidance, which have been invaluable over the past 6 months.”
Chief Fowler earned a bachelor’s of business administration in operations management from East Texas State University, and an MBA in management from Texas A&M Commerce. He holds a Master Peace Officer’s certification and is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy as well as the Police Executive Research Forum. A former Marine, Chief Fowler is a veteran of Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He deployed with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force and participated in the invasion of Kuwait. He and his wife, Julie, married 19 years, are parents to Jillian, Kaitlyn, and Christopher. Chief Fowler has been an Assistant Scoutmaster with Boy Scout Troop 989 (Rockwall) for many years.
Posted On: 2/13/2023 Expired On: 2/20/2023
Rockwall, Texas – February 13, 2023 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, February 20, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 2/8/2023 Expired On: 2/15/2023
Rockwall, Texas – February 08, 2023 – The Rockwall City Council recognized some local first responders with Lifesaving Awards at their regular meeting last night. Thanks to the heroes’ swift teamwork, their patient is on the mend, and here to tell the tale.
First on the scene at the Ralph Hall Airport to help an unresponsive Michael Burke Lebherz, was Rockwall Police Officer Jason Blackwood. He administered chest compressions until members of the Rockwall Fire Department and EMS arrived. Once there, Captain Brad Vallance, Driver Engineer Justin Barker, and Firefighter Bogdan Rusmanica, of the Rockwall Fire Department, along with a crew from Medic Rescue, took over CPR and advanced care efforts. The man was transported to the hospital and was later released. He attended the meeting to show his support of the local heroes.
Posted On: 2/6/2023 Expired On: 2/13/2023
Rockwall, Texas – February 06, 2023 – So far this school year, the twelve City Council-appointed members of the Rockwall Youth Advisory Council have been enjoying a variety of activities, all aimed at teaching youth in our community more about local government. Following orientation and taking their oaths of office in October, the YAC has gone on to tour local homes in various stages of construction in an effort to learn more about the Building Inspections process in our City. In addition, YAC had the opportunity in November to both observe and participate in Teen Court proceedings through the Royse City Municipal Court. Thereafter, Paul Liston, Rockwall Municipal Court Prosecutor, spent time with the students in December, teaching them more about the types of cases heard in local courts and sharing interesting experiences he’s had over his many years of service in each role. In January, students enjoyed hearing from Rockwall County District Attorney, Kenda Culpepper and Rockwall Police Lieutenant, Aaron McGrew. Students learned about the safety of the Rockwall community, how criminal cases are investigated, and how they eventually make their way through the criminal justice system here in Rockwall County.
This past weekend, members of the Rockwall YAC were in Dallas attending the Texas Youth Advisory Commission Summit, hosted by the City of Dallas and sponsored by the Texas Municipal League. This annual event provided YACs from across the state the opportunity to attend skill-building workshops, hear from motivational speakers, and share ideas. While the summit had a serious mission of educating, inspiring, and empowering, it also provided a fun environment to help connect Rockwall youth with other youth leaders and city leaders across the state. More than 200 youth and city officials from around the State of Texas attended the summit.
Upcoming YAC meetings will consist of students hearing a presentation from the North Texas Municipal Water District entitled, “The Gift of Water” and from City Manager, Mary Smith before wrapping up with a year-end presentation to the City Council at its May 1 public meeting.
The City of Rockwall anticipates filling three vacancies on the YAC next school year (2023-2024). Those interested in applying should watch for a press release right after the start of the new school year. More information about the Rockwall YAC may be found by online at http://www.rockwall.com/citysec_yac.asp. In addition, questions regarding the program may be directed to Kristy Teague, City Secretary and YAC Liaison, at kteague@rockwall.com or by calling (972) 772-6406.
Posted On: 2/1/2023 Expired On: 2/3/2023
Rockwall, Texas – February 01, 2023 – Due to continuing icy conditions, the City of Rockwall will remain closed tomorrow, Thursday, February 2.
The prolonged inclement weather will prevent Republic Services from running as earlier anticipated. Here is the final schedule for this week:
* No recycling service this week
* Thursday garbage only moves to Friday
* Friday garbage only moves to Saturday
* Recycling will resume next week on the scheduled days
January 2023
Posted On: 1/31/2023 Expired On: 2/2/2023
Rockwall, Texas – January 31, 2023 – Due to the ongoing inclement weather, the City of Rockwall will remain closed tomorrow, Wednesday, February 1. The icy conditions also continue to impact the Republic Services schedule for trash and recycling pickup. Here is the revised schedule for the rest of this week:
• Tuesday’s recycling pickup moves to Thursday
• Thursday’s trash and recycling pickup moves to Friday
• Friday’s trash and recycling pickup moves to Saturday
Posted On: 1/30/2023 Expired On: 1/30/2023
Rockwall, Texas – January 30, 2023 – The City of Rockwall offices will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, 1/31, due to inclement weather.
In addition, the Architectural Review Board (ARB) and Planning and Zoning (P&Z) meetings scheduled for tomorrow night, Tuesday 1/31, have been moved to next Tuesday, 2/7 at their respective times.
Posted On: 1/30/2023 Expired On: 1/31/2023
Rockwall, Texas – January 30, 2023 – Republic Services has suspended all trash and recycling pickup for Tuesday 1/31 due to inclement weather, with the anticipation that roads may not be passable for their trucks. Trash and recycling pickup for the rest of the week will depend on the weather and road conditions. Here are the details:
Republic will collect Tuesday trash on Friday Republic will attempt to collect Tuesday recycling with a late start on Wednesday.
*Please keep in mind that this plan is dependent on pending weather conditions, and may change at any time. Check back here for updates as they become available.
Posted On: 1/23/2023 Expired On: 1/27/2023
Rockwall, Texas – January 23, 2023 – We need your help to conserve water this week!! This Thursday, January 26, starting at 7 a.m. for a 20-hour period, through early morning Friday, January 27, the City of Rockwall’s water supplier, NTMWD, will be working on the water supply connection from their facility in Wylie.
Residents and businesses are being asked to cease all outside watering during this time, and to limit indoor water usage to the necessities.
Water will not be shut off during the 20 hour construction period, provided residents don’t exceed the amount retained in the City’s water reserves.
Posted On: 1/20/2023 Expired On: 1/27/2023
Rockwall, Texas – January 20, 2023 – The Rockwall Main Street Advisory Board has presented longtime Downtown Rockwall business owner and volunteer, Tammy Sharp, with a rare Main Street Legacy Award. Established in 2019, the award recognizes those who contribute to the vibrancy and economy of Downtown Rockwall. In his presentation at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 17, Board President, Jeremy Standifer, noted that without question, when people think of Downtown Rockwall, they think of Tammy Sharp.
As the President of the Downtown Rockwall Association, going on her third term, Tammy has gone above and beyond in her dedication, especially to the success of events on the square. For years, she has been a behind the scenes dynamo for high profile events such as Spring Fling, Hometown Christmas, Scare on the Square, Farm to Feast, and the car show for Rib Rub Run and Roll, just to name a few.
The Sharp family has truly planted their roots in Downtown Rockwall. Tammy and her husband, Tim, opened their auto paint business, T&T Color Supply, just off the square in 2008. Their daughter, Ashley, has owned the Rockwall Drug and General Store in Downtown Rockwall for about five years. “I am so honored by this award,” Tammy said. “These events have been a lot of hard work, but seeing Downtown Rockwall thrive has made it all worthwhile.”
Tammy Sharp has selflessly served for more than a decade. The events are a big part of what draws people to Downtown Rockwall and creates a family friendly, small town environment for residents and visitors to shop, dine and enjoy. “We are so fortunate to have Tammy and her passion for Rockwall,” said Mayor Kevin Fowler. “She has contributed, in large part, to the vibrancy of our Historic Downtown District.”
Posted On: 1/9/2023 Expired On: 1/16/2023
Rockwall, Texas – January 09, 2023 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, January 16, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 1/4/2023 Expired On: 1/11/2023
Rockwall, Texas – January 04, 2023 – At the City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 3, Dennis Lewis was sworn-in to serve the remaining term in Place 5. The seat became vacant on December 31, when Councilmember Dana Macalik stepped down to become County Commissioner. Mr. Lewis served as a Rockwall City Councilmember from 2012-18; he’s also a businessman and active volunteer in Rockwall.
By city charter, vacancies on the City Council, other than Mayor, are filled by a majority vote of the remaining elected members until the next regular city election, which will be held on May 6, 2023.
In addition to being a former Rockwall City Councilmember, Mr. Lewis served on the Rockwall Planning and Zoning Commission, and he’s also the President of the Board for Meals on Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County. He and his wife, Clarissa, moved to Rockwall with their three children in 1993. Now they have a daughter-in-law, two sons-in-law, seven grandchildren and another one on the way. Mr. Lewis is a graduate of Texas A&M University and is Vice President of Potter Concrete in Irving.
“We are happy to welcome Dennis Lewis back to the Rockwall City Council,” said Mayor Kevin Fowler. “He brings with him a wealth of knowledge, experience and dedication. I’ve known Dennis for years through his involvement on the City Council and in many organizations within the community, and I’m confident he will be a great addition to our Council.”
Rockwall, Texas – December 20, 2022 – In accordance with the solid waste contract with longtime partner, Republic Services, the rates for garbage and recycling will increase 3% for residents. This translates to an increase of $.48 per month. Under the agreement, Rockwall residents will continue to enjoy unlimited bulk trash pickup, twice per week garbage services, and weekly recycling, as has been the standard in the City for many years.
In addition, residents will also see a monthly increase of $.25 for household hazardous waste collection. With this service residents have access to convenient scheduled porch pickup of approved hazardous waste items.
The total monthly increase for residential customers for both garbage and hazardous waste services will be $0.73.
Commercial rates will also see an increase of 3%. The new garbage rates apply to service starting in January and will appear on February bills.
Posted On: 12/20/2022 Expired On: 2/6/2023
Rockwall, Texas – December 20, 2022 – On Monday, February 6, the City of Rockwall will call an election to be held on May 6, 2023 for the purpose of electing the Mayor and three City Councilmembers – one each for Places 1, 3 and 5. Terms for all elected Rockwall City Councilmembers are for a period of two years. Two of the four incumbents – Mayor Kevin Fowler; and Bennie Daniels, Place 1, are termed out and are not eligible to run for reelection, having served the maximum allowable length of time according to the city charter. Clarence Jorif, Place 3 is eligible to run for reelection if he so chooses, and Dennis Lewis, who was recently appointed to Place 5, may also run if he so desires.
An informational candidate packet for residents who may be interested in learning more about running for Rockwall City Council is available both at City Hall (385 S. Goliad on the 3rd floor, City Secretary’s Office) and online for download via the City Secretary’s webpage at www.rockwall.com/citysec_council.asp. The period for submitting an application for a place on the May 6 election ballot runs from Wednesday, January 18 through Friday, February 17.
It is anticipated that the City of Rockwall’s municipal election will again be administered by the Rockwall County Elections Department, as has been done in past years. Early voting will run from Monday, April 24 through Tuesday, May 2. Election Day voting will be held Saturday, May 6. More information concerning specific polling locations and voting dates/times will be made available on our city website and on the Rockwall County Elections Administrator’s website as soon as those details become available.
Applications for Ballots by Mail (ABBM) from voters who are already registered must be requested from, mailed to, and received by the Rockwall County Elections Administrators Office no later than the close of business (5:00 p.m.) on Tuesday, April 25. Federal Post Card Applications (FPCA) must be requested from the Rockwall County Elections Department and received by that office by either Monday, April 17 (if NOT currently a registered voter) or by Tuesday, April 25 (if currently a registered voter) by 5:00 p.m. The address is 915 Whitmore Dr., Suite D • Rockwall, TX 75087.
Please direct questions regarding ballots by mail, voter registration, designated voting locations, voter identification requirements, absentee voting, precincts, etc. to the county elections office by calling (972) 204-6200 or visiting their website at www.rockwallvotes.com. Information concerning the Rockwall City Council municipal election may be directed to the City Secretary, Kristy Teague, by calling (972) 772-6406 or by email at kteague@rockwall.com.
Posted On: 12/16/2022 Expired On: 1/3/2023
Rockwall, Texas – December 16, 2022 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, December 23 and Monday, December 26, in observance of Christmas, and Monday, January 2, 2023, in observance of New Year’s Day.
The Republic Services trash and recycling pickup schedule will remain unchanged for both weeks due to the way the holidays fall.
Posted On: 12/15/2022 Expired On: 1/4/2023
Rockwall, Texas – December 15, 2022 – At a special meeting on Wednesday, December 14, the Rockwall City Council selected Dennis Lewis to serve the remaining term in Place 5. The seat will become vacant on December 31, when Councilmember Dana Macalik steps down to become County Commissioner. Mr. Lewis served as a Rockwall City Councilmember from 2012-18; he’s also a businessman and active volunteer in Rockwall.
By city charter, vacancies on the City Council, other than Mayor, are filled by a majority vote of the remaining elected members until the next regular city election, which will be held on May 6, 2023.
“We look forward to welcoming Dennis Lewis back to the Rockwall City Council,” said Mayor Kevin Fowler. “He brings with him a wealth of knowledge, experience and dedication. I’ve known Dennis for years through his involvement on the City Council and in many organizations within the community, and I’m confident he will be a great addition to our Council.” Mr. Lewis will start his term at the January 3 meeting.
November 2022
Posted On: 11/19/2022 Expired On: 11/19/2022
Rockwall, Texas – October 11, 2022 – The City of Rockwall’s FREE Shred Day is Coming on November 19!
Rockwall residents: Do you have household papers that need to be shredded?
Bring them to the Shred Day for Rockwall residents. Saturday, November 19, 2022, 8a-12n Parking lot behind The Center 108 E. Washington St.
Posted On: 11/15/2022 Expired On: 11/25/2022
Rockwall, Texas – November 15, 2022 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Thursday, November 24 and Friday, November 25, in observance of Thanksgiving. Republic Waste Services will not run on Thanksgiving Day, but Thursday’s garbage and recycling schedule will move to Friday and Friday’s schedule will move to Saturday.
October 2022
Posted On: 10/10/2022 Expired On: 10/17/2022
Rockwall, Texas – October 10, 2022 – This past summer, residents’ ongoing water conservation efforts were successful in decreasing consumption, however, we’re not in the clear yet. The City of Rockwall reminds residents we need to continue to be frugal with water usage. Temperatures continue to be high, and more importantly, there has been no significant rain to help alleviate drought concerns. We can all do a better job to help preserve our existing water resources.
Homeowners are encouraged to limit outside lawn and landscape watering to only twice a week, and not between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. In addition, residents are asked to check sprinkler heads for leaks that can cause hundreds and even thousands of gallons of water to run into the street unknowingly. There are many ways we can all be “water wise.” Here is a link to some tips from our water provider, North Texas Municipal Water District.
September 2022
Posted On: 9/26/2022 Expired On: 10/3/2022
Rockwall, Texas – September 26, 2022 – At their meeting Monday night, September 19, the Rockwall City Council voted to adopt a rate below the no new revenue tax rate (formerly known as the effective rate), which continues a nine-year trend to decrease the tax rate for Rockwall residents. The approved tax rate is the lowest rate ever adopted in Rockwall’s recorded history—and is 5.75 cents less than the rate last year. Also at the meeting, the Council adopted the budget for fiscal year 2022-2023.
In a series of work sessions and public hearings, the City Council directed staff to prepare a balanced budget based on the no new revenue tax rate, which allows the City to collect the same amount in taxes as the year before, as calculated by formulas prescribed by the state. The new tax rate of 29.25 cents per $100 of valuation is down from the 35.00 cents adopted for the previous year. The actual change in ad valorem tax for any individual property is also a function of its assessed value.
In this budget, there are five new positions created in the Police Department, including two school resource officers (SROs) funded at the request of the Rockwall Independent School District (RISD), two patrol officers, and one management position in dispatch. Additionally, there are three new firefighter positions funded. This budget addresses inflationary concerns for City employees, including those in the Police and Fire Departments. Also, $3 million is allocated for street maintenance, in addition to existing big street projects.
This year’s budget responds to a healthy economy, which is attributed in large part to higher sales tax revenue. “We’re grateful that people are choosing to shop locally, and more visitors are being drawn to Rockwall businesses,” said Rockwall Mayor Kevin Fowler. “The City of Rockwall strives to adopt a balanced budget every year, while lowering taxes—and continuing to invest in public safety, critical infrastructure, and the high quality services our residents enjoy. This added revenue allows us to do that, without burdening our taxpayers in the process.”
As always, the new budget continues to address important services such as public safety, parks and recreation, and street repair and maintenance. Items addressed in this budget do not pertain to the Street Repair Bond approved by voters in 2018. Several factors combined to enable the City to utilize a rate below the no new revenue rate without making substantial cuts to the budget, including the aforementioned significant increases in sales tax revenue, coupled with the increase in growth-related new value. The City’s new fiscal year begins on October 1, 2022.
Posted On: 9/26/2022 Expired On: 10/3/2022
Rockwall, Texas – September 26, 2022 – Have you seen it? As visitors enter the City of Rockwall, they will now be welcomed by a larger than life statement for all who visit. The City of Rockwall has installed an impressive 190’ flagpole to fly an American flag on a site at the northeast corner of the I-30 access road between Laguna Drive and Horizon Rd. / Village Dr. This project will serve as a patriotic entry feature to the City for many years to come.
It took about a week to assemble and get the flagpole vertical. There are still a few more things that need to be completed before the actual flag can be flown. Contractors are completing electrical and lighting installation on Tuesday and Wednesday, and the flag is anticipated to go up by the end of this week.
The flag itself measures 50x80’ and weighs approximately 120lbs. A formal dedication ceremony will be held in the near future. Look for updates on the City’s social media sites.
August 2022
Posted On: 8/24/2022 Expired On: 9/5/2022
City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, September 5, in observance of Labor Day. Republic Waste Services will run on the normal garbage and recycling collection schedule.
Posted On: 8/17/2022 Expired On: 8/31/2022
On Wednesday, August 24, the eastbound right lane of SH 66 from approximately west 2nd Street to just west of SH 205 (prior to the Rockwall Police Station) will be closed.
The work being performed is for projects on 407 and 409 Washington/SH 66 and will take approximately a week to complete.
UPDATE: The construction on SH 66 mentioned below has been cancelled for this week. An update will be posted as soon as rescheduling has been announced.
Posted On: 8/5/2022 Expired On: 8/30/2022
Rockwall, Texas – August 5, 2022 – Drivers need to be aware that beginning Tuesday, August 16, T.L. Townsend southbound lanes will be closed, and northbound lanes will be shifted to two-way traffic. The area affected is from 950 to 1201 T.L. Townsend Lane, where a water connection is being added for the Central Appraisal District.
The City of Rockwall has requested that the contractor work only between 9:30 a.m-3:00 p.m. to limit disturbance of Utley Middle School traffic during school drop-off and pick-up. There will be no lane closures or traffic shifts before or after school starts at Utley. Message boards alerting drivers of the traffic shift will be up starting Monday, August 8. The work is expected to take two weeks to complete.
Posted On: 8/4/2022 Expired On: 8/26/2022
Rockwall, Texas – August 4, 2022 – The City of Rockwall is accepting applications for students who wish to be considered for the 2022-2023 Rockwall Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The purpose of Rockwall’s YAC is to provide participation by local youth in municipal government and to teach students about how local government works. The Rockwall Youth Advisory Council provides opportunities for positive community impact through organized participation in various city-sponsored activities and events. YAC students may also be involved in initiatives that benefit local youth. The City Council will fill up to four vacancies on the YAC for this school year. Applicants should be freshmen through seniors and should preferably reside within the city limits of Rockwall.
For more information about the program and to submit an application online, please visit http://www.rockwall.com/citysec_yac.asp. At least one letter of recommendation is required, and applications should be submitted no later than Friday, August 26. Letters of recommendation may be e-mailed to kteague@rockwall.com. Interviews will be scheduled for the afternoon of Thursday, September 1 with appointment selections being made by the Rockwall City Council at its Tuesday, September 6 meeting. Students who apply are asked to make themselves available after school on Thursday, September 1 for a brief (10 min.) interview at Rockwall City Hall. It should be noted, that regular monthly meetings of the YAC typically occur monthly, every first Thursday at 5:30 p.m. during the school year. Applicants should ensure their schedule permits time to regularly attend monthly meetings. Questions about the program may be directed to Kristy Teague, City Secretary, either by e-mail or by calling (972) 772-6406.
Posted On: 8/2/2022 Expired On: 8/9/2022
Rockwall, Texas – August 1, 2022 – With all the emphasis on water these days, the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) has come into prominence of late. Specifically of note, there have been some key changes with the City of Rockwall’s representatives on the NTMWD Board of Directors. After nearly three decades, one representative has retired from his role, and a familiar face is stepping into his place.
First appointed in 1993, Larry Parks has served for 29 years in various roles on the NTMWD Board of Directors, including Vice President, Secretary, and President twice. Mr. Parks is a former banker and longtime resident of Rockwall, who says he is stepping down from his volunteer service in order to enjoy retirement with his family.
At a recent Rockwall City Council meeting, NTMWD Executive Director Jenna Covington thanked Mr. Parks for his many decades of service. Ms. Covington read a proclamation from NTMWD that noted much has changed with the District since he started, namely population growth, and expanded services. “The District grew by more than 1.2 million people, requiring major investments in water, wastewater, and solid waste operations,” she said. Some of the expanded services Mr. Parks has helped to usher in include, building a new reservoir, four new water plants, a new Regional Water Resource Recovery Facility, expansions of the three largest regional wastewater plants, and two new regional waste disposal facilities. “Larry Parks led the District through several challenges during his tenure as Board President,” Ms. Covington said. “He has worked for the betterment of the NTMWD region and the City of Rockwall, and we cannot express the true appreciation deserved.”
At the following City Council meeting, Mr. Parks’ replacement on the NTMWD Board was named, with former Rockwall City Manager Rick Crowley being selected for the position. Mr. Crowley retired in 2020 after 42 years of municipal service, with 37 of those in the City of Rockwall. During his tenure, he saw the City’s population rise from 9,000 to 46,000, and in that time, he served in several key roles, including Director of Parks and Recreation, Director of Public Works, Director of Municipal Services, Assistant City Manager, and City Manager from 2012-2020. Mr. Crowley’s vast experience with water and wastewater utilities for the City makes him well suited for this new role. His term on the NTMWD Board of Directors began July 28.
Posted On: 8/2/2022 Expired On: 8/9/2022
Rockwall, Texas – August 1, 2022 – Rockwall City Manager Mary Smith has named Edward Fowler as interim Chief of the Rockwall Police Department. Former Police Chief Max Geron recently retired from the position. Chief Fowler began his law enforcement career with the Rockwall PD in 1990, serving in a number of leadership roles over the years, most recently as Assistant Police Chief since 2020.
Chief Fowler started as a patrol officer and field training officer, then later became a motorcycle officer and accident reconstructionist. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2002, supervising the patrol, community services, criminal investigations and SWAT divisions. In 2010, he was promoted to Lieutenant where he served as a division commander in patrol, administrative services, criminal investigation, and the SWAT Team. In 2017 he became Captain, and in 2020 he became Assistant Chief.
Chief Fowler earned a bachelor’s of business administration in operations management from East Texas State University, and an MBA in management from Texas A&M Commerce. He holds a Master Peace Officer’s certification and is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy as well as the Police Executive Research Forum. A former Marine, Chief Fowler is a veteran of Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He deployed with the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force and participated in the invasion of Kuwait. He and his wife, Julie, married 18 years, are parents to Jillian, Kaitlyn, and Christopher. Chief Fowler has been an Assistant Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts for many years.
July 2022
Posted On: 7/28/2022 Expired On: 8/1/2022
Rockwall, Texas – July 28, 2022 – While the City of Rockwall’s water provider, North Texas Municipal Water District, has been asking residents to conserve water during this extended drought, questions have arisen about the flushing they’ve seen in the meantime. When people see city employees opening fire hydrants and allowing gallons of water to run onto the street, it appears to be unnecessarily wasteful in a time of elevated conservation. What’s really happening is called flushing, and it’s a critical aspect of keeping the city’s water supply clean and drinkable. This is a routine process that takes place every year when temperatures rise into the triple digits—and to reiterate the City of Rockwall’s water is completely safe. Here is some more information about flushing to help understand its importance:
Flushing hydrants or dead-end water lines is a State of Texas requirement by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Water lines are flushed for these main reasons:
To maintain water quality The disinfectant, chloramine, becomes less effective as water collects and becomes older. This process is exacerbated in warmer months as rising temperatures can accelerate the degradation of disinfection in the water. If tests indicate that water quality may be affected, cities often flush the lines and dead-end mains so that fresher water with a higher level of disinfectant is present.
To clean water mains Over time, small particles can build up inside the water distribution pipes and can have an impact of water quality. Water professionals use flushing to pull water at high velocity through pipes to a discharge point. The rapid flow of water scours the insides of the pipes.
To conduct fire flow tests Fire hydrants are tested periodically to ensure and document proper functioning so they are ready for an emergency.
During Annual Temporary Change in Disinfectant (also known as chlorine maintenance)
Each spring for one month, NTMWD temporarily suspends the use of ammonia and uses free chlorine as the secondary disinfectant to maintain water quality year-round. Local water providers (cities or utility districts) who receive NTMWD water may help move the chlorine-disinfected water through the system faster by flushing water out of fire hydrants. Frequent flushing helps maintain the system, ensure high water quality and reduce the chlorine odor and taste. The temporary disinfectant change is done earlier in the year to maintain the system before hotter temperatures which can increase the potential for bacterial growth in pipes. Flushing the pipes in the spring also helps conserve valuable water that will be needed as water demands increase in the summer months.
Posted On: 7/26/2022 Expired On: 8/3/2022
Rockwall, Texas – July 25, 2022 – The City of Rockwall’s water tower on Boydstun Avenue (next to Fire Station One), nicknamed “Old Rusty” by some on social media, is set to be dismantled starting this week. The water storage tank was constructed in 1978, and served its purpose for 30 years, when it was taken offline in 2008.
To take its place, newer water towers were constructed at North Country Lane and Interstate 30 to meet demand. As the city grew, the need for greater capacity and higher elevations made the Boydstun water tower inefficient and ultimately obsolete as a water source.
However, in the years since it was decommissioned, the structure’s purpose evolved from a water source to a revenue source—with telecommunications and broadband providers located on the tank. Then the time finally came when the tower either needed to be resurfaced and painted or deconstructed. Over the past few months, the cell providers have been relocated to the radio tower adjacent to the water tower in preparation for the dismantling.
The City’s contractor will begin to deconstruct the water tower over the next 30 days or so. The process includes using a blow torch to cut the water tower into smaller pieces and lowering them to the ground, working from the top down. Watch for regular updates and pictures of the process as it happens.
Posted On: 7/16/2022 Expired On: 7/18/2022
WYLIE, TX – July 16, 2022 - The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) is requesting that those receiving water purified by NTMWD reduce their water use immediately, especially outdoor water use. The NTMWD Wylie Water Treatment Plant Complex had to cease producing water at one of its four water treatment plants unexpectedly on Saturday, July 16 to perform critical maintenance required to return the plant back to full water purification capacity. All customers in the region are strongly encouraged to conserve water and reduce outdoor watering until further notice is issued by NTMWD. This call to action is due to water production quantity, and not water quality – the water is safe to drink and use.
NTMWD supplies significant volumes of wholesale water to communities across most of Collin County, Rockwall County, north Dallas County and Kaufman County. Portions of some adjacent counties are served by NTMWD as well.
This is a precautionary call to action, as NTMWD’s water purification capacity remains adequate for basic services including household use and for public safety. The ongoing regional drought coupled with increasing discretionary outdoor water use and irrigation has stressed the water purification and distribution systems. NTMWD must perform critical maintenance at its Wylie Water Treatment Plant Complex to restore that capacity.
The critical maintenance involves six sedimentation basins at the plant which take particles out of the water during the treatment process. These six basins help in the production of 210 million gallons of water per day. Due to peak water demands by customers, the accumulation of sediment has accelerated and impacted the ability for the plant to efficiently process water through the treatment process. Crews will be working around the clock to restore treatment capacity through these basins.
The week-long outlook by the National Weather Service Fort Worth/Dallas includes high temperatures with hot conditions and continuation of the current drought - which emphasizes the importance of this regional call to action to conserve water and reduce outdoor watering.
Posted On: 7/12/2022 Expired On: 8/31/2022
Rockwall, Texas – July 12, 2022 – Homeowners in Rockwall are watering their lawns at record levels, and the City of Rockwall reminds residents about the water conservation plan ordinance still in effect. Already, usage levels are higher than normal for this time of year, when comparing the last few years. As the temperatures continue to rise, it is critical to conserve water.
The Rockwall City Council enacted the ordinance in 2019, following years of severe drought in North Texas, as a measure to stave off future supply issues. The ordinance limits outdoor lawn and landscape irrigation to only two days a week. In addition, it strictly prohibits lawn watering during daytime hours between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Posted On: 7/6/2022 Expired On: 10/1/2022
Rockwall, Texas – July 5, 2022 – Beginning Thursday, July 7, residents will need to have their trash and recycling out by 6 a.m. on their designated pickup days.
This move will help protect Republic Services employees from the excessive heat later in the day. The previous time to have trash out was 7 a.m., and rolling back the time by one hour, allows crews to complete daily pickup and be off the road before temperatures rise into the triple digits. Heat exhaustion is a serious concern for workers on the garbage trucks during summer months, and this year we’ve already experienced hotter weather than in recent years. Some residents may consider putting trash out the night before to meet the 6 a.m. deadline.
The pickup time will return to 7 a.m. on October 1, when temperatures begin cooling down again.
June 2022
Posted On: 6/30/2022 Expired On: 7/4/2022
Rockwall, Texas - June 28, 2022 - The 2022 Independence Day Celebration will take place on Monday, July 4th at Harry Myers Park and will again feature a special presentation. Parachutists will jump from a vintage WWII Navy R4D-6S airplane, flown by the Dallas-Fort Worth Wing of the Commemorative Air Force. The R4D-6S will fly over Harry Myers Park at about 6:40 p.m., followed by a parachute demonstration at approximately 6:45 p.m. before the fireworks display at dusk.
The Terry Fisher American Legion Post 117 will narrate the demonstration as the jump team enters the park.
The fireworks show will begin at approximately 9:15 PM
Posted On: 6/28/2022 Expired On: 7/4/2022
Rockwall, Texas - June 28, 2022 - City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, July 4, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. The City Council meeting normally held that day will move to Tuesday, July 5. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 6/24/2022 Expired On: 7/8/2022
Rockwall, Texas – June 24, 2022 – Chief Max Geron has announced his retirement as Chief of the Rockwall Police Department, effective July 31. Chief Geron has served as the Chief during a time of challenges and changes in policing and brought a different perspective to the Rockwall Police Department, having served the citizens of Dallas as a Major in the DPD before joining the Department.
He has accepted a position as a Senior Director for a national-level policy institute, which focuses on improving health and public safety. This will give Chief Geron the opportunity to have a broad national impact on the modern-day development of the police profession.
Accomplishments during Chief Geron’s tenure include the addition of seven sworn positions in the current budget year, in the Patrol and Criminal Investigations division, as well as an officer-level position to oversee the department’s extensive training programs. Other departments have lost staffing or were able to add fewer officers than Rockwall was able to accomplish. Additionally, several police functions – including, most notably, Community Services and its legion of volunteers – can now enjoy much-needed additional space in the growing Rockwall Technology Park. As part of the department’s strategic plan, Chief Geron oversaw an increase in analytical capabilities by adding a full-time Crime Analyst. There have been significant technology and equipment upgrades for officers in the field. Chief Geron received input from internal focus groups on a host of issues important to all ranks. The department increased training and reduced risk with smart and prudent policy changes.
City Manager Mary Smith noted, “Chief Geron took significant steps to modernize this police department, improving on the good and making it even better. Rockwall continues to be a safe community with great Police Department support from our residents and business leaders”.
Chief Geron said, “the last two years have been incredibly challenging for the Police profession. The members of this department have worked hard to not only serve and protect our residents, but also make an investment in the youth of our community. For a father with children in this city, I am encouraged by the relationships our SROs build with our children. Our civilian professionals have done an outstanding job in support of our mission and I’m proud of their diligent work each day.”
Posted On: 6/22/2022 Expired On: 7/6/2022
Rockwall, Texas – June 22, 2022 – For the 13th year in a row, the City of Rockwall has been designated as an Accredited Main Street America™ program for meeting rigorous performance standards in the Historic Downtown Rockwall District. Rockwall has received accreditation every year since Main Street Manager Bethany Browning was hired in 2009. Each year, Main Street America and its partners announce the list of accredited programs to recognize their exceptional commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization.
Evaluation criteria determines the communities that are building meaningful and sustainable revitalization programs and include standards such as fostering strong public-private partnerships, supporting small and locally owned businesses, and actively preserving historic places, spaces, and cultural assets.
This accreditation means that Rockwall has an exemplary Main Street program, as evidenced by partnerships with organizations such as the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Rockwall Association, responsible for many of the annual events on the Square, and the Friends of Downtown Rockwall, which runs the Rockwall Farmers Market.
Rockwall’s Historic Downtown District supports thriving small, local businesses and continues to truly be the backbone of the City. Since 2009, along with its partners, Rockwall Main Street has developed and expanded a whole host of special events, including the San Jacinto Plaza Music Series, Scare on the Square, Hometown Christmas, and Rockwall Farmers Market. These annual events generate excitement and draw patrons to downtown restaurants and businesses, as well as nurture the small town culture which makes Rockwall so attractive.
May 2022
Posted On: 5/27/2022 Expired On: 5/30/2022
City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, May 30, in observance of Memorial Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 5/25/2022 Expired On: 6/6/2022
Rockwall, Texas – May 25, 2022 – At their regular meeting on Monday May 16, the Rockwall City Council held a swearing-in ceremony for three Councilmembers in Places 2, 4, and 6. One of the members sworn-in was new to the Council, and two were incumbents, all were uncontested. The election had been scheduled for May 7, but it was cancelled because none of the races drew opponents.
New to the Council, in Place 2, is Mark Moeller, former Rockwall Police Chief who retired in 2015 after a 38-year career in law enforcement. Most recently, Mr. Moeller served six years on the Rockwall Planning and Zoning Commission, and also served six years on the Board of Directors of the Rockwall Central Appraisal District.
Also sworn-in were incumbents Trace Johannesen (Place 4), and Anna Campbell (Place 6); each of the three Councilmembers took an oath of office with District Judge David Rakow to begin serving their two-year terms.
To cancel the general election this year to fill these council seats, the City Council officially passed an ordinance at their meeting on March 7. This is a move that saved taxpayers nearly ten thousand dollars.
Shortly after being sworn-in, Trace Johannesen was appointed as the new Mayor Pro-Tem, replacing John Hohenshelt, who recently termed out of office. Rockwall City Councilmembers are subject to term limits and are eligible to be elected to three two-year terms.
Posted On: 5/17/2022 Expired On: 5/22/2022
Rockwall, Texas – May 17, 2022 – As the City of Rockwall prepares for the unveiling of the Butterfly Art sculptures this Saturday, May 21, there is one special group to thank for making the project happen. To kick off the project, the first sculpture was painted by local artist and retired art teacher, Susan Guzman, along with help from other artists, Lynne Milner and Cindy Mosby. Then, did you know that the rest of the butterflies were carefully hand painted by student artists from Rockwall ISD high schools?! It’s true.
After the 10 butterflies were hand crafted by City of Rockwall Parks Superintendent Brian Sartain, the pieces were delivered to students at Rockwall High School and Rockwall-Heath High School. Each student submitted a design that was approved by the City of Rockwall Art Commission. The art teachers carefully selected the students for the project, painting began in January, and each butterfly was complete and entered into the RISD District Art Show on April 8-9.
The Butterfly Art project is part of the City of Rockwall’s Art in Public Places program, which also oversaw the Guitar project, among others. This is the third Art in Public Places project, and the fourth is currently in the works. The Butterfly unveiling is just one of a number of art activities taking place on the square this weekend in conjunction with the Founders Day Festival. The Butterfly sculptures will reside in each of the city’s eight butterfly gardens, as well as two more in San Jacinto Plaza and Lofland Park. For more information about this project, and the rest of the day's activities, please visit Facebook.com/DowntownRockwall.
Here is the list of artists who contributed to the project:
Local Artists
· Susan Guzman
· Lynne Milner
· Cindy Mosby
Rockwall-Heath High School
· Hannah Herrera
· Faith Jacobs
· Alexa King
· Jacey Monroe
· Hannah Moore
· Katie Panchalk
Rockwall High School
· Avery Anderson
· Emma Bonner
· Landon Clark
· Emma Flanagan
· Aleah Holt
· Ari Jensen
· Daia Land
· Sarah Larman
· Andraya Melamed
· Madeline Montgomery
· Savana Olivo-Villegas
· Mia Pearson
· Savannah Reed
· Amberlynn Saenz
· Madison Vike
· Ryan Weideman
· Tyresse Wadud-Price
· Blaire Willess
· Diosely Zavala
April 2022
Posted On: 4/25/2022 Expired On: 5/9/2022
Rockwall, Texas – April 25, 2022 – Have you subscribed for the Nixle app yet? Nixle is an extremely helpful emergency notification system that provides advanced warning, which is especially beneficial when severe weather comes around. With the severe weather we typically face every spring in North Texas, it’s a good time to discuss safety measures residents can take to stay alert and prepared.
Nixle, utilized by the Rockwall County Office of Emergency Management (RCOEM), allows users to receive text message alerts when severe weather is imminent. In order to sign up for the program, text RCOEM to 888777 or visit nixle.com. The County also uses the service to notify subscribers about major accidents.
In addition to the app, the City of Rockwall maintains 14 outdoor emergency warning sirens strategically placed throughout the city. These sirens are tested on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 2 p.m. unless severe weather is in the area. Outdoor warning sirens are used to warn citizens, who may be outdoors, of an imminent severe weather event in the community and to encourage them to immediately seek shelter indoors.
It’s important to note, sirens are not intended to warn citizens who may be indoors at the time of the event, although in some cases residents may hear the sirens while inside their home or business. When sirens sound, citizens who are outdoors should quickly move indoors and seek shelter in an innermost room, away from glass windows, and tune to a local news or radio station until it’s been conveyed that safe conditions are restored.
Remember, never call 9-1-1 when you hear sirens sound unless you have a true emergency that requires police or fire response. Since lives could be at stake, 9-1-1 phone lines must remain clear in order to address true emergencies in a timely manner. Using the Nixle app will help you know what is going on. For more information about severe weather and other hazards, please visit www.knowhat2do.com
Posted On: 4/6/2022 Expired On: 4/16/2022
City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, April 15, in observance of Good Friday. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
March 2022
Posted On: 3/2/2022 Expired On: 3/16/2022
Rockwall, Texas – March 2, 2022 – The City of Rockwall is working to secure portions of the Runway Protection Zone (RPZ) at the Ralph Hall Municipal Airport. The purpose of an RPZ is to provide safe approach and departure zones for aircraft, and securing these areas enhances the safety of people and property on the ground. To do this, the City has entered into a Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreement with a landowner of a portion of the RPZ. What this means is that the landowner has agreed to trade the City the property within the RPZ in exchange for a different piece of property for a mutually beneficial outcome.
The property within the RPZ is located across from the airport at the southeast corner of John King Boulevard and Airport Road. Prior to the agreement, the Boys & Girls Club of Rockwall was looking to build a new facility at this location, however, since the property falls within the RPZ, it is not conducive to a development of this kind. That’s why the City offered to exchange a piece of land located at FM 1141 and John King Boulevard across from the Caruth Lakes subdivision.
As the name suggests, Chapter 380 Economic Development Agreements are meant to help cities promote economic development. The landowner is in the process of donating the second property to the Boys & Girls Club of Rockwall for a new building. Ultimately, with the agreement, the City of Rockwall has helped the Boys & Girls Club secure a safer location for their new building, and the City, in turn, will avoid inconsistent development which could negatively affect the municipal airport and the safety of people and property.
February 2022
Posted On: 2/24/2022 Expired On: 2/26/2022
As with the last bout of winter storms, the City of Rockwall has been working around the clock to keep residents safe.
City of Rockwall road crews are continuously monitoring weather conditions. TxDOT has treated the major highways, and Rockwall is sanding major city streets not covered by TxDOT.
Additional crews are standing by to address any potential issues with the city’s water and wastewater services. If you experience a waterline break in your home, the City will turn your water off if you call (972) 771-7730. All street, public water/wastewater employees will be working around the clock in 12-hour shifts to ensure they are available if needed.
Posted On: 2/23/2022 Expired On: 2/25/2022
The City of Rockwall offices will be closed Thursday, 2/24, due to inclement weather.
Posted On: 2/23/2022 Expired On: 3/4/2022
Rockwall, Texas – February 23, 2022 – Due to inclement weather, Republic Services trash and recycling pickup for this week will be delayed similar to a holiday schedule, where Thursday pickup moves to Friday and Friday pickup moves to Saturday. Additionally, bulk pickup is already slightly behind due to higher than normal brush volumes (from the last weather event). Bulk pickup is expected to be caught up by the end of next week. Just leave your bulk on the curb, and they’ll get there. Thank you for your patience.
Posted On: 2/23/2022 Expired On: 3/7/2022
Rockwall, Texas – February 23, 2022 – The City of Rockwall recently called an election to be held on May 7, 2022 for the purpose of electing three City Council Members, one each for Places 2, 4 and 6. Two incumbents, Trace Johannesen (Place 4), and Anna Campbell (Place 6), filed appropriate paperwork to appear on the ballot in hopes of serving an additional two-year term in office, and are uncontested in their races. Additionally, Mark Moeller has filed for Place 2 and is uncontested for the seat.
The filing deadline to submit an application to run for City Council in the General Election was Friday, February 18, and the last day to declare write-in candidacy on the ballot was February 22. The City Secretary did not receive candidate filings from anyone other than those listed above. Therefore, the Rockwall City Council will consider an ordinance cancelling the election due to no opposed candidates at its meeting on Monday, March 7. All three candidates will take the Oath of Office at the regular City Council meeting on Monday, May 16, to begin serving their terms.
Posted On: 2/23/2022 Expired On: 2/24/2022
Rockwall, Texas – February 23, 2022 – The City of Rockwall flags at all facilities have been lowered to half-staff today as a sign of respect for the recent passing of former Mayor Bill Cecil.
Mr. Cecil believed strongly in giving back to his community. He served 11 years on the Rockwall City Council, and of those, was Mayor from 2005-2011. He retired from the United States Air Force as a Lt. Colonel after 39 years of service. Mr. Cecil was a graduate of the Citizens Police Academy and a member of the Citizens on Patrol (COP) volunteer organization. Additionally, Bill was a founding board member and past President of the Rockwall County Emergency Services Corporation, and a board member of Patriot Paws. A longtime member of the Rockwall Rotary Club, Bill also served as the International Chair, supporting schools in Nicaragua.
While Mayor Cecil led the way on many important things during his tenure on the City Council, he was instrumental in facilitating the approval and construction of John King Boulevard. He also dedicated a great deal of time supporting the arts and historic preservation in the City of Rockwall, and led the way in creating an ordinance that funds Art in Public Places. This funding has paved the way for various public art projects, including the Guitar project, the Butterfly project and the Discovery statue project currently underway.
Posted On: 2/18/2022 Expired On: 2/19/2022
Rockwall, Texas – February 18, 2022 – The City of Rockwall flag at Rockwall City Hall has been lowered to half-staff today as a sign of respect for the recent passing of former Councilmember Dr. Bob Sparks.
A lifelong resident of Rockwall, Dr. Sparks returned after medical school to join his brother and father at the “Sparks Clinic,” and he remained active in the community his entire life. Dr. Sparks served two terms on the Rockwall City Council from 1980-84.
In all, Dr. Bob practiced medicine for 46 years, serving as the team physician for Rockwall High School for 20 years, and the City Health Officer for 20 years. Dr. Bob and his brother, Dr. Randy, helped form the ambulance service in Rockwall, and with a handful of others, they were both founders of Lake Pointe Medical Center.
Posted On: 2/18/2022 Expired On: 3/30/2022
Temporary change in water disinfectant is essential for safe drinking water
The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) will temporarily change the disinfectant in its water treatment process from March 1 through March 29, 2022. The annual, routine change is necessary to maintain the regional system and year-round water quality for the more than two million customers NTMWD serves in a 10-county region in North Texas in a 2,200-square-mile service area. NTMWD provides a capacity of more than 876 million gallons of treated water per day through more than 610 miles of transmission pipelines.
Disinfection is a critical part of the water treatment process that keeps drinking water free of harmful microorganisms, such as parasites and viruses. Disinfection involves a two-step process that first treats the water at the treatment plant and then chloramine disinfectant (chlorine + ammonia) is added to maintain water quality on its journey through the miles of pipes to homes and businesses. During the temporary change, NTMWD suspends adding ammonia and uses free chlorine to keep water disinfected as it travels through pipes. It’s important to do this before summer because hotter temperatures can increase the potential for bacterial growth in pipes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this temporary conversion is a common practice for many water providers using chloramines for disinfection.
The absence of ammonia during these few weeks may make the chlorine disinfectant more noticeable to some people. There are simple steps to minimize taste, odor or skin sensitivities, including placing a pitcher of water in the refrigerator overnight or adding a slice of citrus to the water. Adding a crushed 1000 mg Vitamin C tablet to bath water will neutralize the chlorine.
“Protection of public health and keeping our water safe is a top priority,” said Zeke Campbell, NTMWD Assistant Director Water Treatment and Conveyance. “This common maintenance practice is an essential step in our advanced year-round treatment and disinfection process and does not increase the amount of chlorine in the system. The water remains safe to drink and use every day, and we continue to meet or surpass safe drinking water standards.”
NTMWD has conducted the temporary change in water disinfectant for over a decade, and continues to meet safe drinking water standards earning recognition from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) as a Superior Public Water System.
During the change, the cities and districts served by NTMWD may help move the chlorine-disinfected water through the system faster by flushing water from fire hydrants. The combination of converting to chlorine disinfectant and flushing the pipes helps maintain the system and safe water year round.
NTMWD conducts hundreds of tests daily in a state-certified laboratory to ensure water safety. Monthly and annual water quality reports are posted online, including results of tests conducted during the annual system maintenance. Customers can view this information at www.ntmwd.com/water-testing/. The TCEQ also conducts routine sampling and testing in NTMWD and city distribution systems through an independent laboratory to confirm water quality compliance with state and federal standards.
NTMWD has posted resources online, including fact sheets, frequently asked questions, infographics, videos, and guidelines for questions about water quality. NTMWD also recommends that customers review the water quality information posted on their city or utility websites.
Rockwall, Texas – February 15, 2022 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, February 21, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 2/11/2022 Expired On: 2/13/2022
Rockwall, Texas, February 11, 2022 - Come celebrate the beginning of the new and improved Kidzone playground at Harry Myers Park! This event, taking place on February 12 from 11am-2pm, is for any person or company that had a board or a recognition plaque installed at the playground, along with anyone that wants to drop by one last time before the NEW Kidzone project starts in Spring 2022.
Rockwall Parks and Recreation staff, along with the help of the Rockwall Breakfast Rotary Club, will be serving hotdogs (while supplies last) and removing the name boards/plaques around the playground. Each plaque/name board will be cleaned and given back to their owners as a keepsake. Any boards and plaques not picked up will be removed and stored for future pick up if you cannot make the event.
Posted On: 2/4/2022 Expired On: 2/6/2022
Rockwall, Texas – February 4, 2022 – Republic Services has determined they will not be able to safely run their trucks to collect recycling this weekend as they had previously hoped. Extreme weather conditions, specifically icy roads and alleys, will prevent the trucks from being able to pick up recycling on Saturday 2/5. Trash service had already been cancelled for the rest of the week. Temperatures are not expected to get above freezing before later in the day on Saturday and any melting today will refreeze in the cold temperatures tonight. Both garbage and recycling services will resume on Monday 2/7 on your regularly scheduled days, with the understanding that routes may take a little longer to accommodate the higher volumes that have accumulated.
Posted On: 2/3/2022 Expired On: 2/6/2022
Rockwall, Texas – February 3, 2022 – Republic Services are not running routes on Thursday and Friday 2/3-4 due to inclement weather and road conditions. At this time, crews plan to attempt to run on Saturday 2/5, to pick up Thursday and Friday RECYCLE ROUTES ONLY—no garbage pickup. Of course this will depend upon road and alley conditions at the time.
Republic operations staff will meet on Friday afternoon to firm up their plan, and the City will post updates as they become available. Garbage and recycling services will be back on the regular schedule next week.
Temperatures are expected to remain well below freezing through Saturday morning, and City of Rockwall road crews will treat the streets tonight and again tomorrow before daylight.
January 2022
Posted On: 1/14/2022 Expired On: 2/1/2022
Rockwall, Texas – January 14, 2022 – The City of Rockwall is providing space for a third party to perform COVID-19 testing at the Tuttle Ball Fields, located at 1600 Airport Road in Rockwall. Until now, residents have experienced difficulties finding COVID-19 testing locations. Starting next week, Monday, January 17, the testing site will be up and fully functional. My Labs Direct will be the company performing the testing, by appointment only, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The link to register for an appointment is: dashboard.mylabsdirect.com/insurance.
Posted On: 1/12/2022 Expired On: 1/17/2022
City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, January 17, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Rockwall, Texas – December 21, 2021 – In accordance with the solid waste contract with longtime partner, Republic Services, the rates for garbage and recycling will increase 3% for residents. This translates to an increase of $.75. Under the agreement, Rockwall residents will continue to enjoy unlimited bulk trash pickup, twice per week garbage services, and weekly recycling, as has been the standard in the City for many years.
In addition, commercial rates will also see an increase of 3%. Water and sewer rates will not be affected by this current increase. The new garbage rates apply to service starting in January and will appear on February bills.
Posted On: 12/20/2021 Expired On: 12/31/2021
City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, December 24 and Monday, December 27, in observance of Christmas, and Friday, December 31, 2021, in observance of New Year’s Day.
The Republic Services trash and recycling pickup schedule will remain unchanged for both weeks due to the way the holidays fall.
November 2021
Posted On: 11/22/2021 Expired On: 12/6/2021
Rockwall, Texas – November 22, 2021 – Have you been wondering about the status of the statue commemorating the discovery of the rock wall for which our city was named? Since the last update, there have been a lot of efforts behind the scenes, including computer digitizing and prep work at the foundry. Now the wait is over… the first phase of the actual enlarging process is underway.
The 3-D scans of the smaller sculptures were taken, and from that measurements for the final larger-than-life size statues were determined. They were then programmed into a large cutting machine to cut dense foam inner cores. Those cores will be assembled into figures, and then layers of clay will be applied. The artist, Jim Bryant, will work on the clay – to return the detail to the final enlarged sculptures. Once that is complete, large molds will be created, so that the molten bronze can be poured for the final steps.
“I am excited to see this phase of the project beginning,” said Discovery sculptor, Jim Bryant. “I will be able to be more actively involved hands on with the process, until we are ready for bronze casting.”
Posted On: 11/18/2021 Expired On: 11/27/2021
Rockwall, Texas – November 17, 2021 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Thursday, November 25 and Friday, November 26, in observance of Thanksgiving. Republic Waste Services will not run on Thanksgiving Day, but Thursday’s garbage and recycling schedule will move to Friday and Friday’s schedule will move to Saturday.
Posted On: 11/5/2021 Expired On: 12/6/2021
Dallas County – Starting Thursday, Nov. 11, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will close lanes on the westbound I-30 Lake Ray Hubbard bridge from Dalrock Road to Bass Pro Drive. The closures, which are expected to continue for five weeks, will provide room for crews to start expanding the I-30 bridge and eventually connect to a new frontage road bridge under construction.
Drivers can expect daily one-lane closures from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and nightly two-lane closures as needed from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m
This work is part of the $142 million project to build new frontage road bridges across the lake from Dalrock to Bass Pro, and rebuild the Dalrock interchange. Future projects will widen I-30 and add continuous frontage roads throughout Rockwall County. These I-30 projects are part of TxDOT’s Texas Clear Lanes effort to relieve congestion in major metropolitan areas.
For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Public Information Officer Kendall Kirkham Sloan at Kendall.Sloan@txdot.gov or (214) 320-4403.
October 2021
Posted On: 10/27/2021 Expired On: 10/31/2021
Rockwall, Texas – October 27, 2021 – Oncor has informed the City of Rockwall that they have scheduled outages that will occur this Saturday (10/30) mainly in the new section of the Caruth Lakes neighborhood. Residents of the affected homes have already been notified by Oncor representatives.
Oncor is upgrading the feeders from the Rockwall substation to allow them to carry more load, and to transfer load between feeders. To make the switch, power to 574 homes will be shut off from 8 a.m. for up to eight hours that day. Oncor representatives say they hope to have power restored in a shorter timeframe.
The following streets will be affected in this project
Phelps Lake Dr.
Chesapeake Dr.
Calling Cir.
Dhaka Dr.
Lochness Ct.
Great Lakes Ct.
Open Bay Ct.
Silver Lake Dr.
Mountain Lake Dr.
Shady Lane Dr.
Setting Sun Ct.
Palasades Ct.
Crescent Cove Dr.
Hampton Bay Dr.
Crescent Cove Dr.
White Water Ln.
Bay Line Dr.
Highbluff Ln.
Blue Brook Dr.
Hidden Lakes Way
Montego Ct.
Rapids Ct.
Waters Edge Dr.
A few customers on FM 1141, State Hwy 66 & Washington St.
The Rockwall ISD Administration building on State Hwy 66
The Children’s Advocacy Center building on Washington
Harry Myers Park
Oncor will schedule other outages associated with this project on future Saturdays. Oncor will notify customers in advance, and the City will distribute information as it is relayed by Oncor.
Posted On: 10/26/2021 Expired On: 12/13/2021
Dallas County - Starting Monday (Nov 1st), the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will close lanes on the eastbound I-30 Lake Ray Hubbard bridge from Bass Pro Drive to Dalrock Road. The closures which are expected to continue for six weeks will provide room for crews to start expanding the I-30 bridge and eventually connect to a new frontage road bridge under construction.
Drivers can expext daily one-lane closures from 9:00am to 3:30pm and nightly closures as needed from 7:00pm to 5:00am.
This work is part of the $142 million project to build new frontage road bridges across the lake from Bass Pro to Dalrock and rebuild the Dalrock interchange. Future projects will widen I-30 and add continuous frontage roads throughout Rockwall County. These I-30 projects are part of TxDOT's Texas Clear Lanes effort to relieve congestion in major metropolitan areas.
For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Public Information Officer Kendall Kirkham Sloan at Kendall.Sloan@txdot.gov or (214) 320-4403.
Posted On: 10/19/2021 Expired On: 11/2/2021
Rockwall, Texas – October 19, 2021 – The City of Rockwall is happy to announce their newly redesigned website at Rockwall.com has gone live. The website launched Tuesday, and feedback has been positive on the new look and navigational features. The updated website implements better functionality and is completely mobile friendly, which will enhance the user experience for residents and guests visiting the site.
Posted On: 10/5/2021 Expired On: 10/19/2021
Rockwall, Texas – October 5, 2021 – The Rockwall City Council recognized City Building Official, Jeffrey Widmer, for excellence in his field. Mr. Widmer, has been named the Building Official of the Year for 2021 by the Building Officials Association of Texas (BOAT). Mr. Widmer has been the City of Rockwall’s Building Official since 1998. BOAT members voted on the award and overwhelmingly selected Mr. Widmer for the honor, then presented the award to Mr. Widmer at their state conference held in Denton recently.
At their regular meeting on Monday, October 4, the City Council honored Jeffrey Widmer for this acknowledgement. Fellow Building Officials and past BOAT Presidents, Jim Olk (Garland), and Selso Mata (Plano), as well as current BOAT President and Carrollton B.O., Brett King, were in attendance at the meeting to personally present the award. “Part of our mission with BOAT is post disaster response, and we’ve had a few in the past several years,” said Brett King. “Jeffrey has been indispensable as a hard-working leader of our organization, and we value his contributions.”
Officially dubbed the Jim Whatley Award, it “was established to honor outstanding professionals in the field. The award is only given to a Building Official, who is a manager in charge of construction and code enforcement. Nominees are dedicated to life safety and public welfare.” BOAT’s stated goal is to establish uniformity and efficiency in administering and enforcing building codes and ordinances. Jeffrey Widmer served as the President of BOAT for the past two years, from 2019-21, and before that as the organization’s Vice President.
“Jeffrey is very dedicated and always looking for ways to make things better for our residents here in Rockwall,” said Rockwall Mayor Kevin Fowler. “This recognition from his peers is quite an honor, proving his hard work extends beyond our City with the fellow Texans he selflessly helps behind the scenes, and we wanted to highlight his accomplishments.”
Of the acknowledgement, Mr. Widmer said, “I’ve been honored to serve in this capacity, and I’ve gained so much hands-on experience in this role. The rapid damage assessments we do—to keep cities and buildings safe after a hurricane, tornado, or any natural disaster—allow us to use our specific talents to give back as a team in the communities where we live.” Mr. Widmer will continue to serve on the BOAT Board as Immediate Past President.
September 2021
Posted On: 9/24/2021 Expired On: 10/24/2021
Rockwall, Texas – September 24, 2021 – The Rockwall City Council has approved an art project to honor the City’s rich history. The Discovery Statue Project is named for the three pioneers who discovered the rock wall, for which our city was named. Council has approved funding of $324,800 for a larger-than-life sculpture to be located on the grounds of the Historic Courthouse on the square. The local arts community has discussed this project for many years, and it is now becoming a reality.
The artist, Jim Bryant, who is donating his time and talents, and won’t make a profit from this project—is providing a license for his artwork to the City and serving as a consultant on the project without compensation. “The Discovery statue is important to me and I feel strongly about the need to honor this part of Rockwall’s history,” said Mr. Bryant. He is already working behind the scenes to create the bronze memorial, and the process is very detailed. He started with a small sculpture created originally back in 2004, when after Founders Day that year, area art supporters decided there needed to be a work of art commemorating the discovery of the rock wall. Mr. Bryant won the contest with his sculpture, and his design was chosen to be enlarged and placed prominently in the community for all to enjoy. "I am absolutely delighted the City of Rockwall has agreed to move forward with Discovery," said Dr. Kathleen Morrow, Rockwall Alliance for the Arts. “I hope residents will come to treasure this beautiful sculpture which has been so carefully and skillfully produced by our own Jim Bryant.”
The statue depicts Terry Utley Wade, Benjamin Boydstun, and William Clay Stevenson, the three settlers who dug a well in 1852, and in doing so discovered one of a series of rock walls that run underground throughout the City. According to the Rockwall Historical Foundation website, the City was platted and named two years later, in 1854, for the rock formation, after the town founders could not agree on naming the land after one of themselves.
The creative process is complex, starting with an original design, which the Schaefer Art Bronze Foundry in Arlington will use to create a mold. Currently, computer imaging company, 3DLirious, has taken more than 500 images of the mold and is scanning them into the computer, creating data points that will enable them to enlarge the sculpture to a larger-than-life size. In a simplified explanation, a wax cast is then made, which eventually is used to form a bronze statue. The finished sculpture will be roughly nine feet tall and will become a permanent fixture on the on the southeast corner of the courthouse lawn.
Funding for this project comes through the Rockwall Alliance for the Arts and the City of Rockwall. “This project has been a long time in the works, and it is gratifying to see it finally come to fruition,” said Rockwall Mayor Kevin Fowler. “The City Council feels strongly about honoring Rockwall’s heritage, and the memorial will be a testament to that as well as show our support for the importance of public art in our community.” The sculpture is projected to be installed by Founders Day in May of 2022. “We thought Founders Day would be the perfect time to unveil the Discovery statue,” said Chris Kosterman, Chairman of the Rockwall Arts Commission. “This is the day we honor Rockwall’s rich history, and it’s a big draw for families. We’re planning a host of activities to promote the statue, and the other arts projects that are currently in the works.”
Posted On: 9/16/2021 Expired On: 10/25/2021
Rockwall, Texas – September 16, 2021 – Starting Monday, October 4, Quail Run Road from John King Blvd to east of Hays Road will be closed. This closure is needed to repair a storm culvert under Quail Run for the development of Gideon Grove Phase 2.
The road is anticipated to reopen on Monday, October 25, weather and construction schedule permitting.
Posted On: 9/3/2021 Expired On: 9/10/2021
Rockwall, Texas –September 3, 2021 – As part of Atmos Energy's vision to be the safest provider of natural gas services, it is essential to survey and monitor our natural gas system for leaks using the most advanced technology available.
Atmos Energy crews and contractors will be in your area performing safety surveys of our natural gas distribution system using mobile leak detection units that measure and map methane plumes in the area.
Mobile leak detection units are white SUV's with flashing lights and are labeled with an Atmos Energy logo or "Utility Contractor." You will see this unit driving slowly in the street and alley at night, which ensures an accurate survey of our system.
City officials and first responders have been notified of this activity.
For more information on how to detect a natural gas leak, click here....
Who: Atmos Energy
When: 9/6 - 9/10 at night from (7:00pm-6:00am)
Where: Rockwall & Heath
August 2021
Posted On: 8/27/2021 Expired On: 9/6/2021
Rockwall, Texas – August 27, 2021 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, September 6, in observance of Labor Day. Republic Waste Services will run on the normal garbage and recycling collection schedule.
Posted On: 8/2/2021 Expired On: 8/16/2021
Rockwall, Texas – August 2, 2021 – At their meeting on August 2, the Rockwall City Council recognized the swift action of a team of first responders with Lifesaving Awards – for saving the life of a local resident. Both police officers and firefighters worked quickly to save a man who was unconscious when they arrived. The lifesaving team consisted of: Police Officers Aaron Raymond and David Taylor, and Firefighters Greg Givens, Andrew Burton and Zach Yates. The man, who has made a full recovery, was on hand at the Council meeting to extend a personal “thank you” to the first responders who saved his life.
Officers Raymond and Taylor arrived on scene to the man who was in cardiac arrest, and they began to perform CPR. When Firefighters Givens, Burton and Yates arrived, they began resuscitation efforts with a bag valve mask and an automatic external defibrillator (AED), which soon revived the man. Rockwall County EMS transported the patient to an area hospital and he was released a few days later. He personally spoke at the Council meeting to thank the team for their efforts, saying, “because of you, our family is still together and I’m standing here today.”
Posted On: 8/2/2021 Expired On: 9/2/2021
Rockwall, Texas – August 2, 2021 – The Rockwall City Council has named Mary Smith as the new City Manager. Mrs. Smith has been serving as the Interim City Manager since January when Rick Crowley retired from the position. Mary Smith, who has been with the City of Rockwall for 23 years, has served in the dual role of Assistant City Manager and Director of Finance since 2012. At their regular meeting on August 2, the Council appointed her to the role of City Manager, saying she is, “a natural fit for the job.”
Shortly after being appointed as the Interim City Manager earlier this year, Mary Smith led the City through the winter storms that rocked North Texas. When temperatures dropped to deadly levels and residents lost power in their homes, she and then Mayor Jim Pruitt made the call to open a warming center to keep people safe. Mrs. Smith and a small crew of city employees and volunteers manned The Center until power was restored and residents could safely return home.
Mrs. Smith, a CPA, has served the City of Rockwall as the Finance Director since 1998 and has overseen a lot of growth and change in more than 20 years here. She came to Texas a year before from her home state of Indiana, working for a brief time for the town of Balch Springs before taking the position in Rockwall. “We’ve made great strides over the years, working with City leaders to keep the tax rate low and help keep business vibrant in our community,” Smith said. “Our goal is to focus on our customers, the residents, and their needs. We do our best to help people and businesses become successful.”
Several City Council seats were up for reelection this year, and the previous Council chose to have Mrs. Smith serve as Interim City Manager until the new Council was installed. “Mary has demonstrated stellar leadership when we’ve needed it,” said Rockwall Mayor Kevin Fowler. “She has the experience and wisdom we need in a City Manager.”
Mary Smith is an active volunteer in the community with Rockwall County Kiwanis, where she has been the Christmas parade coordinator for a number of years, as well as with Rockwall Farmer’s Market. She and her husband Keith have been married 25 years and are parents to four adult children and four grandchildren.
“Rockwall is my home, and I have a vested interest in the decisions we make every day,” Smith said. “Our small town is growing and becoming a sought-after destination, which is exciting with the possibilities it brings. Our long-term goals are to manage the growth, while retaining the hometown charm that we all love, and striking a balance between the two. I’m looking forward to this new chapter with the City.”
July 2021
Posted On: 7/28/2021 Expired On: 6/21/2022
Dallas County – Next week, the Texas Department of Transporation (TxDOT) will begin construction of two frontage road bridges on Interstate 30 (I-30) from Bass Pro Drive to Dalrock Road in Dallas County. TxDOT will also reconstruct the I-30, Dalrock Road interchange.
Sema Construction, Inc. is the contractor on this $142 million project. Work is scheduled to start in August and is expected to be complete in the summer of 2024.
This project is funded in part by the Texas Clear Lanes congestion relief initiative. Texas Clear Lanes is a statewide strategic plan to provide congestion relief through non-tolled roads and is focused on the five largest metro areas in Texas.
For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Public Informatrion Officer Lisa Walzl at Lisa.Walzl@txdot.gov, or call (214) 320-4403.
June 2021
Posted On: 6/23/2021 Expired On: 7/6/2021
Rockwall, Texas – June 23, 2021 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, July 5, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. The City Council meeting normally held that day will move to Tuesday, July 6. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
May 2021
Posted On: 5/19/2021 Expired On: 5/31/2021
Rockwall, Texas – May 19, 2021 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, May 31, in observance of Memorial Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 5/1/2021 Expired On: 6/1/2021
2020 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report for the period of January 1st to December 31st 2020.
2020 Water Quality Report
April 2021
Posted On: 4/14/2021 Expired On: 4/24/2021
Rockwall, Texas – April 14, 2021 – The City of Rockwall will host a Candidate Forum for the contested Rockwall City Council seat in the upcoming election. The event will take place on Saturday, April 24, from 10 a.m-12 noon in the City Council chambers at Rockwall City Hall (385 South Goliad).
The event will be open to the public, and also live-streamed so that residents have ample opportunity to view the forum. Candidates participating in the forum include, Priscylla Bento, Jerry Welch, Clarence Jorif, Dennis Lewis, and Ronald Smith. The candidates in this Forum are all running for Place 3 (2-year term). Other seats up for election are not contested and will not participate in the Forum. Early voting runs from Monday, April 19 through Tuesday, April 27. Election Day is Saturday, May 1.
March 2021
Posted On: 3/23/2021 Expired On: 4/2/2021
Rockwall, Texas – March 23, 2021 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, April 2, in observance of Good Friday. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 3/19/2021 Expired On: 4/19/2021
Q: What need exists for enforcement of golf cart regulations? A: Many residents have expressed concerns about children driving golf carts in an unsafe manner. In addition, Rockwall Police Officers have witnessed unsafe golf cart driving by juveniles, who often are unfamiliar with basic rules of the road and driver courtesy. The intent is to enforce existing state laws now to avert possible future tragedies. more...
Posted On: 3/2/2021 Expired On: 3/9/2021
Rockwall, Texas – March 2, 2021 – During the recent winter storms, Rockwall’s water usage was up by 32 million gallons. In large part, that’s because residents had to drip faucets for an entire week to keep pipes from freezing. Also, in many cases, pipes that did burst may have spilled quite a bit of water before residents were able to repair them. As a proactive step, the Rockwall City Council voted at their meeting Monday night to give residents a 2,000 gallon water allowance to help lower the cost of the anticipated higher water bills.
Residents won’t see a refund on their water bill in the traditional sense. The base rate for a 5/8” meter currently includes the first 2,000 gallons of usage, and the Rockwall Utility Billing Department will simply increase the base rate to include the first 4,000 gallons of usage for the month of February. This extra 2,000 gallon allowance for dripping will go a long way to keep the extra usage from costing our customers.
The Council vote also included a measure directing staff to not include the month of February in the calculation of sewer averages, so that increased usage will not impact averages for the year. In keeping with the City’s policy to make partial adjustments when you’ve had a leak, you will need to present an invoice from a plumber or receipt for parts purchased to make repairs. Be sure to specify your service address. Those can be emailed to CustomerService@rockwall.com or dropped off in person at the Utility Billing Department at 385 S. Goliad St.
February 2021
Posted On: 2/23/2021 Expired On: 3/30/2021
Rockwall, Texas – February 23, 2021 – Temporary Change in Water Disinfectant Critical for Safe Drinking Water Year Round. The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) will temporarily change the disinfectant in its water treatment process from March 1 through March 29, 2021. The annual, routine change is necessary to maintain the regional system and year-round water quality.
Disinfection is a critical part of the water treatment process that keeps drinking water free of harmful microorganisms, such as parasites and viruses. Disinfection involves a two-step process that first treats the water at the treatment plant and then chloramine disinfectant (chlorine + ammonia) is added to maintain water quality on its journey through the miles of pipes to homes and businesses. During the temporary change, NTMWD suspends adding ammonia and uses free chlorine to keep water disinfected as it travels through pipes. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this temporary conversion is a common practice for many water providers using chloramines for disinfection.
“This routine, temporary change in water disinfectant is critical to maintain the right conditions inside our pipelines and water quality year-round,” said Zeke Campbell, NTMWD Water System Manager. “This common system maintenance practice does not increase the amount of chlorine, and the water remains safe to drink, and we continue to meet or surpass safe drinking water standards.”
Posted On: 2/8/2021 Expired On: 2/16/2021
Rockwall, Texas – February 08, 2021 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, February 15, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 2/3/2021 Expired On: 2/17/2021
Rockwall, Texas – February 2, 2021 – The Rockwall City Council has named long-time Assistant City Manager Mary Smith as the new interim City Manager. The move came on the heels of the retirement last week of former City Manager Rick Crowley. Mary Smith has served successfully in the dual role of Assistant City Manager and Director of the Finance Department since 2012.
Ms. Smith, a CPA, came to Rockwall as the Finance Director in 1998 and has overseen a lot of growth and change in more than 20 years here. She came to Texas a year before from her home state of Indiana, working for a brief time for the town of Balch Springs before taking the position in Rockwall. “We’ve made great strides over the years, working with City leaders to keep the tax rate low and help keep business vibrant in our community,” Smith said. “Our goal is to focus on our customers, the residents, and their needs. We do our best to help people and businesses become successful.”
Several City Council seats are up for reelection this year, and the Council has chosen to have Ms. Smith serve as interim City Manager until June, when the new Council is in place. “Mary was a clear choice, in our eyes, for this role,” said Rockwall Mayor Jim Pruitt. “She has so much knowledge and experience of the inner workings of the City, and her transition to the City Manager role will be a natural one.”
“I’ve watched Rockwall change quite a bit over the years—one of my first events was the ribbon cutting of Ralph Hall Parkway,” Smith said. “It’s been fun seeing the transformation from small town to a regional destination city. I’ve enjoyed the last 22 years here, and am looking forward to serving in this new capacity.”
January 2021
Posted On: 1/22/2021 Expired On: 2/5/2021
Rockwall, Texas – January 22, 2021 – The S. Lakeshore Drive and Summit Ridge Drive Reconstruction Project from SH-66 to FM-740 / Ridge Road was approved with the Capital Improvement Project Bond passed in 2012. During the design phase of this project, the City of Rockwall staff held multiple stakeholder / resident meetings and utilized surveys to determine the residents’ concerns with regard to this project. Based on the information collected at the time, the residents’ two main concerns were increased speeds along the roadway, and the excessive number of cars during traffic disruptions on larger nearby roadways, such as I-30 and SH 66. To design a roadway that addressed the speeding concerns, the City’s consultant proposed the use of narrowed lanes, on-street parking niches, and neighborhood traffic circles on Lakeshore Dr. / Summit Ridge.
Residents along the roadway were given the option to have parking niches in front of their homes, and some declined. Based on the plans prepared by the consultant, there are seven traffic “calming” circles. These traffic circles are designed utilizing yield signs in lieu of a four-way stop sign. In approaching a yield-controlled traffic circle intersection, the driver must reduce their speed to navigate around the traffic circle in a counterclockwise direction. This movement is typically only performed safely at lower speeds.
For example, if a vehicle is navigating the traffic circle as another driver approaches the yield sign, the driver will either be required to stop, allowing the other vehicle to complete its traffic movement through the circle, or be required to reduce their speed to merge into the traffic circle before safely continuing along the driver’s preferred route. (See attached image 1) If the vehicle is longer in length (e.g. truck pulling a trailer, fire truck, or school bus), the calming circles allow the vehicle to turn left on the “inside” of the circle. (See attached image 2) The “outer” circle is designed with a three inch “roll-up” curb to facilitate vehicles traversing over the curb, if needed. Changing signage is one of the final steps of the project, where stop signs will be replaced with yield signs. Overall, the intended purpose of this intersection design should help reduce speeds near and within the intersection, providing a higher level of safety.
Posted On: 1/20/2021 Expired On: 2/3/2021
Rockwall, Texas – January 20, 2021 – How do you even begin to thank someone for a lifetime of service? On January 31, City Manager Rick Crowley will retire after 42 years in municipal government, 37 of those with the City of Rockwall. A lot has changed here since his arrival, and throughout his tenure, Mr. Crowley has undeniably had a huge impact on the growth and success of the City of Rockwall.
When Rick Crowley first came to the City of Rockwall as an administrative assistant, parachute pants were popular, and New Coke hadn’t yet been invented, or abandoned. The year was 1984. Crowley has indeed seen a lot of change at the City during his tenure. For starters, the population of our town was a whopping 9,000 at the time. In contrast, today more than 46,000 call Rockwall home. “When I came here, Rockwall was a small town with far fewer stores and businesses, and I have watched it grow into a major destination for various industries, professional services, commercial, and retail,” Crowley said.
Crowley came to Rockwall from Colorado City, Texas, where he was the City Manager of the town of 5,600. Rockwall was the big city in comparison. Before Colorado City, Mr. Crowley worked three years for the City of Burleson as well. In Rockwall, Mr. Crowley has served in several key roles over the years, including Director of Parks and Recreation, Director of Public Works, and Director of Municipal Services. He was promoted to Assistant City Manager in 1998, and served in that role until April of 2012, when he was chosen to become the next City Manager for the City of Rockwall.
Upon his retirement, Rick Crowley has calculated that he will have attended more than 1,000 City Council meetings from all the municipalities over more than four decades. Since he arrived, the City of Rockwall has grown from 59 employees to more than 300 now, and Rockwall boasts a park system that has blossomed from 40 to 970 acres.
“Rick has been instrumental in helping the City of Rockwall successfully and smoothly navigate a lot of change over the years,” said Rockwall Mayor Jim Pruitt. “Rick’s knowledge and experience has been valuable in helping many City Council groups move forward and plan for the future of this quickly growing city—to ensure that growth is deliberate and intentional.”
Crowley has overseen transition in the City of Rockwall in many major areas, including the building of The Harbor, expansion of the parks and trails system, recreation programs, transitioning the fire department from completely volunteer to a combination paid / volunteer force, and managing the high quality growth in residential and commercial development—just to name a few.
“Although the population has grown significantly during my years here, Rockwall continues to have its small town feel where residents truly care about one another. It is a great place to live,” Crowley said. He and his family will continue to live in Rockwall after his retirement. He may even attend an occasional council meeting.
Posted On: 1/7/2021 Expired On: 1/18/2021
Rockwall, Texas – January 7, 2021 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, January 18, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Rockwall, Texas – December 16, 2020 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, January 1, 2021, in observance of New Year’s Day. Trash and recycling pickup schedule for Friday, January 1, will move to Saturday January 2.
Posted On: 12/8/2020 Expired On: 2/28/2021
Rockwall, Texas – December 8, 2020 – The Rockwall City Council has voted to extend the solid waste contract with longtime partner, Republic Services. Under the new agreement, Rockwall residents will continue to enjoy unlimited bulk trash pickup, twice per week garbage services, and weekly recycling, as has been the standard in the City for many years. The contract includes a rate increase of $2.79 per month, including applicable sales tax.
In addition, commercial rates will see an increase of 3%. Water and sewer rates will not be affected by this current increase. The new garbage rates apply to service starting in January and will appear on February bills.
Posted On: 12/8/2020 Expired On: 12/10/2020
Rockwall, Texas – December 8, 2020 – By order of Governor Greg Abbott, the flags at all City of Rockwall facilities have been lowered to half-staff from December 7-10 as a sign of respect for the recent passing of Rockwall County Commissioner David Magness. The City of Rockwall sends its condolences to the Magness family.
“Commissioner David Magness was a devoted public servant who represented Rockwall County and his precinct with professionalism and fairness. His leadership overall, and most especially in transportation projects and planning, will continue to serve us well into the future. He will be missed as a leader and a friend,” Mayor Jim Pruitt.
Posted On: 12/2/2020 Expired On: 12/3/2020
Rockwall, Texas – December 3, 2020 From approximately 8am to 1pm traffic signal work is planned at the Lakeshore Drive and SH 66 (W. Rusk Street) intersection. The traffic signal will be stop condition in all directions (flashing red) for this period of time. The traffic signal will return to normal operation after work is complete.
October 2020
Posted On: 10/26/2020 Expired On: 10/28/2020
Rockwall, Texas – November 19, 2020 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27, in observance of Thanksgiving. Republic Waste Services will not run on Thanksgiving Day, but Thursday’s garbage and recycling schedule will move to Friday and Friday’s schedule will move to Saturday.
Posted On: 10/14/2020 Expired On: 12/14/2020
Rockwall, Texas – October 13, 2020 – Weather Permitting, the Farm-to-Market 3549 (FM 3549) connection to State Highway 66 (SH 66) on the south side of the intersection will be closed to through traffic starting on 10/13 for approximately two months. Traffic will be detoured to SH 66, John King Boulevard, and Interstate 30 (I-30). The closure will allow construction to enter the next phase of work.
This closure is part of a $9.23 million project to reconstruct and widen FM 3549 from a two-lane to a four-lane divided roadway in Rockwall County. The project started in fall 2018 and is scheduled to finish in late 2020.
September 2020
Posted On: 9/9/2020 Expired On: 9/16/2020
Rockwall, Texas – September 9, 2020 – The City of Rockwall was recently informed that a long-term care facility has reported a number of positive COVID-19 cases. The Rockwall Nursing Care Center has had 19 residents and 7 staff members test positive for the virus this week. In following state guidelines, the nursing home, located at 206 Storrs Street, was testing residents and staff to begin allowing for limited visitation in the center. Among residents, there are 16 active cases, and there have been 7 staff cases. There have been 3 fatalities reported. According to the nursing center, active and recovered positive cases have been reported as mostly asymptomatic. Due to the current cases, the nursing center has halted admissions.
The Rockwall Nursing Center has previously tested their residents and staff, and experienced no positive tests until now. The Texas Department of Health and Human Services has been on site recently to assist the Center in evaluating protocols, and no changes were warranted. Both the City of Rockwall and Rockwall County will continue to offer support to the facility’s response efforts.
August 2020
Posted On: 8/27/2020 Expired On: 9/7/2020
Rockwall, Texas - August 27, 2020 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day. Republic Waste Services will run on the normal garbage and recycling collection schedule.
June 2020
Posted On: 6/26/2020 Expired On: 7/5/2020
Rockwall, Texas – June 26, 2020 – The Rockwall City Council took action today in keeping with the Governor’s Executive Order GA-28 which states:
"For any outdoor gathering in excess of 100 people… the gathering is prohibited unless the mayor of the city in which the gathering is held, or the county judge in the case of a gathering in an unincorporated area, approves of the gathering, and such approval can be made subject to certain conditions or restrictions not inconsistent with this executive order."
At today’s meeting, the Council discussed the status of upcoming public events in the light of current COVID-19 concerns. With the Mayor’s approval in a 4-1 vote, the Council decided to continue the events through July 4. Everyone is encouraged to take personal responsibility and celebrate the holiday in a manner most comfortable for them.
Posted On: 6/2/2020 Expired On: 6/15/2020
Rockwall, Texas – June 2, 2020 – At their regular meeting on Monday, June 1, the Rockwall City Council selected Anna Campbell to fill the Place 6 vacancy. A 30-year Rockwall resident, Ms. Campbell is an awarded educator who is dedicated to service in the community. Anna Campbell is a Rockwall High School Spanish teacher and plays an active role with several charitable and civic organizations, including Rockwall Noon Rotary, Boys and Girls Club of Northeast Texas, Rockwall County Republican Women, and Rockwall Women’s League.
Ms. Campbell has been a Rockwall Independent School District educator for 20 years, having taught bilingual kindergarten and first grade, middle school and high school Spanish and ESL, as well as AVID at RHS. Additionally, she is a sponsor for the RHS Interact Club, which connects high school students with Rotarians and various service projects. Among her many awards for teaching, she has been named Teacher of the Year and the Hawk Most Influential Teacher.
Of her new selection, Ms. Campbell said, “I am passionate about my hometown. I’m honored to step into this new role serving with the Rockwall City Council, and representing the residents in this capacity.”
“We look forward to welcoming Anna Campbell to the Rockwall City Council,” said Mayor Jim Pruitt. “She brings with her a wealth of knowledge, experience and dedication. I’ve known Anna for years through her involvement in many organizations within the community, and I’m confident she will be a great addition to our Council.” Ms. Campbell will start her term at the next meeting on June 15.
May 2020
Posted On: 5/18/2020 Expired On: 5/26/2020
Rockwall, Texas – May 18, 2020 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
March 2020
Posted On: 3/9/2020 Expired On: 3/23/2020
Rockwall, Texas – March 9, 2020 – There have been numerous reports in the media about novel coronavirus, COVID-19, including news that Texas residents are currently being monitored in various parts of the state. While there has been one resident of Frisco identified and monitored as “presumptive positive” for COVID-19, health officials there say the immediate risk of transmission remains low. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends taking everyday preventive steps to limit exposure and reduce the risk of transmission: more...
February 2020
Posted On: 2/21/2020 Expired On: 3/13/2020
Rockwall, Texas – February 19, 2020 – Starting Monday, March 2, 2020, one-way westbound traffic will begin for Summit Ridge Drive. The section between South Alamo Road and Ridge Road (FM 740) will remain open to two-way traffic.
For updates on this project and any other City Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), you can go to the City of Rockwall’s Engineering CIP webpage. If you would like to receive email updates on the project when they become available, please sign up for email notifications on the CIP webpage under the project of interest.
For any questions or concerns, feel free to contact James Palmer, City of Rockwall Engineering Construction Inspector, at (469) 974-1773.
Posted On: 2/21/2020 Expired On: 3/13/2020
Rockwall, Texas – February 21, 2020 – The City of Rockwall recently called an election to be held on May 2, 2020 for the purpose of electing three City Council members, one each for Places 2, 4 and 6. All three incumbents, including John Hohenshelt (Place 2), Trace Johannesen (Place 4), and Patrick Trowbridge (Place 6), filed appropriate paperwork to appear on the ballot in hopes of serving an additional two-year term in office.
The filing deadline to submit an application to run for City Council in the General Election was Friday, February 14, and the last day to declare write-in candidacy on the ballot was February 18. The City Secretary did not receive candidate filings from anyone other than incumbents. Therefore, the Rockwall City Council will consider an ordinance cancelling the election due to no opposed candidates at its meeting on Monday, March 2. All three incumbents will take the Oath of Office at the regular City Council meeting on Monday, May 18 to begin serving their additional term.
Posted On: 2/19/2020 Expired On: 2/26/2020
Rockwall, Texas – February 19, 2020 – Not one to rest on her laurels, this Hometown Hero will admittedly never slow down. She will always find some way to help make things better in our community. That unique brand of optimism, ingenuity and tenacity is exactly what Main Street Board member Claudette Hatfield has dedicated to Rockwall for nearly 45 years—and it’s precisely why Mayor Jim Pruitt chose her as the newest recipient of the Hometown Hero Award.
At a time when Rockwall needed it most, Claudette Hatfield, wife of former Mayor George Hatfield, looked around and devised a plan to effect change. She and longtime friend, Barb Coleson, rallied their personal troops and created Friends of Downtown Rockwall and subsequently Rockwall Farmer’s Market to infuse new life into the Historic Downtown area. These were all-volunteer projects with one collective goal in mind—bring people downtown, create a reason for them to stay… and keep coming back.
Nearly 15 years after the start of her crusade, the change is here. To see it now, it’s difficult to remember a time when the Square wasn’t bustling with excitement. After all, it has always been a place to congregate and celebrate, but a thriving tax generator… it was not. Her action on behalf of Downtown helped create a turning point for the area. While Claudette acknowledges her role in “the perfect storm” that happened in Downtown Rockwall at the time, she downplays the significance of her part in particular. “A few key businesses came in, and that helped, but we needed more,” Claudette said. “Friends of Downtown and Rockwall Farmer’s Market just happened to come in at the right place and time to make a difference.”
“Make a difference” may be a bit of an understatement. The Rockwall Farmer’s Market has become somewhat legendary in North Texas. Respected as one of the best in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, the market regularly brings more than 1,000 patrons of all walks of life Downtown every Saturday, and helps foster the hometown feel of much smaller cities. The market was also instrumental in Rockwall’s Main Street designation in 2009. In short, a literal game changer.
On any given weekend from May through September, you can find Claudette at the Rockwall Farmer’s Market checking on vendors and doing whatever needs to be done. The rest of the time, she is planning for it. Her passion and enthusiasm for her chosen projects are unmatched, and have inspired countless others to dedicate their time and talents for the benefit of this community. With her trademark charming southern accent she claims, "People want to be part of a winning team." Her projects are indeed winners. What she doesn't acknowledge is that they are… because of her.
Through the Hometown Hero Award, Mayor Pruitt wanted to spotlight Mrs. Hatfield’s decades of accomplishments. “Claudette never wants praise or recognition for all she does, and yet we need to highlight her positive contributions,” he said. “Creating the pumpkin patch, decorating Downtown every fall to make it festive, founding the Farmer’s Market, and the list goes on. Her example of volunteerism has led the way for many to follow, and we want to honor that.”
Her list of volunteer projects actually extends beyond Downtown, including Helping Hands Board of Directors, Rockwall Summer Musicals, Friends of the Library, Rockwall Women’s League, and so much more. Her missions have proven to be long-lasting and pivotal for the growth and success of this community. When likened to the Energizer Bunny, Mrs. Hatfield smiles but shakes her head. It’s clearly not the first time she’s heard this analogy. Would she ever slow down; has she even considered it? "Of course not. What else would I do? We can never stop improving our Downtown and creating a destination to draw people here. There is always more to be done." The Rockwall City Council presented Claudette Hatfield with the second Hometown Hero Award at their meeting on Tuesday, February 18.
Posted On: 2/10/2020 Expired On: 2/18/2020
Rockwall, Texas – February 10, 2020 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
January 2020
Posted On: 1/31/2020 Expired On: 2/14/2020
Disinfection of drinking water is critical to protecting consumers from disease-causing microorganisms, called pathogens, including bacteria or viruses. Disinfectants are very effective at inactivating (or killing) pathogens and have enormously benefited public health. For example, the incidence of typhoid fever was reduced by 1,000-fold in the U.S. in the last century by implementing the disinfection of drinking water.
Posted On: 1/31/2020 Expired On: 3/20/2020
Wylie, Texas – Jan. 31, 2020: The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) will temporarily change the disinfectant in its water treatment process from March 2 through March 30, 2020. The annual, routine change is necessary to maintain the regional system and year round water quality.
Posted On: 1/22/2020 Expired On: 2/5/2020
Rockwall, Texas – January 22, 2020 – He doesn't do it for the recognition or praise. In fact, he's often very quickly onto the next project, or in this case, how to make this one even bigger and better. You may have heard of Dr. Stan Lowrance, DDS, but you may have no idea what the local dentist has done behind the scenes to make Rockwall such a great place to live, work and play. That's why Mayor Jim Pruitt has chosen Dr. Stan Lowrance as the inaugural recipient of the new Hometown Heroes Award.
The goal of the new award is to highlight the efforts of those working tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to continuously improve the City of Rockwall. During his time in office, Mayor Pruitt has noticed we actually have a lot of these heroes—and he wanted to showcase their good work. Interestingly, Dr. Stan's project to help area veterans was born out of a lifetime of service to others. With more than 30 years of experience in volunteering and mission work, Dr. Lowrance is always looking for ways to help, and when this opportunity presented itself, he knew he had to act.
As a successful dentist in town, it may come as no surprise that Dr. Stan's idea grew from helping a woman in severe tooth pain. It's how he helped her, and the action to help others like her on a grand scale that has elevated him to heroic proportions. When Dr. Stan heard Theresa's story, it spoke to him, and he knew he could use his talents to help. This nurse had beaten the odds, and overcome cancer. However, the radiation and medication had ravaged her teeth, leaving her in constant excruciating pain. Upon hearing the woman’s story, and especially that she was a veteran, Dr. Stan jumped at the chance to help.
That day spawned an idea that grew into a one-day, D-Day for V-Day, event. Over the past three years, Dr. Lowrance and his associates have helped nearly two hundred Rockwall area veterans. He has partnered with the Terry Fisher American Legion Post 117 in Rockwall to find more veterans in need of dental assistance, culminating in a record 40 dental professionals caring for 84 veterans in one day in 2019. With experience duplicating his brainchild fundraiser the Hot Rocks Bike Ride for other Rotary clubs, Dr. Stan has already helped to expand D-Day for V-Day into multiple cities as well.
Dr. Lowrance has received a Congressional Recognition Award for his efforts in Rockwall, and now he’s working on a plan for further expansion—duplicating the program and taking it across the nation. “There are so many more veterans who need our help, and it’s what we need to do,” said Dr. Lowrance. “Veterans are the real heroes, and I can easily teach other dentists across the country how to copy the program so these patients get the help they desperately need. It’s my dream.”
“Dr. Stan is the perfect recipient for the new Hometown Heroes Award,” said Rockwall Mayor Jim Pruitt. “His actions exemplify the caliber of people we have living and working in Rockwall. We want to recognize him as a role model and someone who’s going above and beyond to give back to our community.” Mayor Pruitt and the Rockwall City Council honored Dr. Lowrance with the first Hometown Heroes Award at their regular meeting on Tuesday, January 21.
Posted On: 1/17/2020 Expired On: 1/31/2020
Rockwall, Texas – January 16, 2020 – Rockwall City Manager Rick Crowley has selected Max Geron to serve as the new Chief of Police. Crowley said, “Chief Geron brings a great attitude, skill set and broad range of experience, as well great appreciation and respect for the Rockwall Police Department, and the resolve to continue the great tradition of service to our citizens and departmental professionalism that we currently enjoy.”
Geron began his career with the Dallas Police Department in 1992. He currently serves as Acting Deputy Chief in the DPD, where he supervises nearly 400 personnel. “I’m honored to be chosen to lead this outstanding police department with such a great reputation of public service and community partnership,” Chief Geron said. “I love the Rockwall community and am thrilled to be a part of this amazing team.”
Chief Geron holds a Master Peace Officer Certification, and is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Police Executive Research Forum. He received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Midwestern State University and a master’s degree in national security studies from the United States Naval Postgraduate School. Geron will begin work in Rockwall on February 17. He currently resides in Fate, but will be moving to Rockwall.
Posted On: 1/15/2020 Expired On: 1/21/2020
Rockwall, Texas – January 15, 2020 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 1/13/2020 Expired On: 5/2/2020
Rockwall, Texas – January 13, 2020 – The City of Rockwall will soon be calling an election to be held on May 2, 2020 for the purpose of electing the three City Council Members - one each for Places 2, 4 and 6. Terms for all elected Rockwall City Council Members are for a period of two years. All incumbents – John Hohenshelt, Place 2; Trace Johannesen, Place 4; and Patrick Trowbridge, Place 6 - are eligible to run for re-election if so desired.
An informational candidate packet for residents who may be interested in learning more about running for Rockwall City Council is available both at City Hall (385 S. Goliad on the 3rd floor, City Secretary’s Office) and online for download via the City Secretary’s webpage. The period for submitting an application for a place on the May 2 ballot runs from Wednesday, January 15 through Friday, February 14.
It is anticipated that the City of Rockwall’s municipal election will again be administered by the Rockwall County Elections Administrator, as has been done in past years. Early voting is scheduled for Monday, April 20 through Tuesday, April 28 (excluding Sunday). Election Day voting will be held Saturday, May 2 from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Specific information concerning polling locations and early voting times will be made available on our city website and on the county Election Administrator’s website as soon as those details become available.
Applications for ballots by mail must be requested from and mailed to the Rockwall County Elections Administrator’s Office and received no later than the close of business on April 21. The address is 915 Whitmore Dr., Suite D, Rockwall, TX 75087.
Please direct questions regarding ballots by mail, voter registration, designated voting locations, voter identification requirements, absentee voting, precincts, etc. to the county elections office by calling (972) 204-6200. Information concerning the Rockwall City Council municipal election may be directed to the City Secretary, Kristy Cole, by calling (972) 772-6406 or by email at kcole@rockwall.com.
Rockwall, Texas – December 19 - Rockwall residents know there is a lot of progress happening here—in various stages of completion. Road projects are underway in all areas of the city. To keep up to date on the latest information about City Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), including road, as well as water and sewer rehab projects, you can go to the City of Rockwall’s Engineering CIP webpage: https://sites.google.com/view/rockwallengineering/home. If you would like to receive email updates on a particular road project when new information is available, please sign up for email notifications on the CIP webpage under the project of interest.
Posted On: 12/16/2019 Expired On: 1/2/2020
Rockwall, Texas – December 16 - City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Tuesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 25, in observance of Christmas, and Wednesday, January 1, 2020, in observance of New Year’s Day.
Trash and recycling pickup during this time will not be affected; Republic Services will run their normal routes for both holidays.
November 2019
Posted On: 11/25/2019 Expired On: 12/9/2019
Rockwall, Texas – November 25 - Every year Rockwall residents rally to help our neighbors in need during the holidays. Rockwall County Helping Hands has a program to provide toys to make Christmas brighter for more than 1,000 local children.
The annual Toy Drive kicked off on November 15. Toy tags are available at drop-off locations, such as Rockwall City Hall, located at 385 S. Goliad St., and new unwrapped toys must be dropped off by noon on Monday, December 9. For more information about ways to help with the toy drive, please visit: RockwallHelpingHands.com.
Posted On: 11/22/2019 Expired On: 11/25/2019
Rockwall, Texas – November 22 - On Sunday, November 24, between at 6:00am and 5:00pm the Rockwall Police Department non-emergency phone system will undergo routine maintenance that may cause intermittent interruptions in service to the non-emergency phone lines. Emergency 9-1-1 calls will not be impacted by the maintenance.
For non-emergency phone calls please use (972) 722-5719 between the hours of 6:00am and 6:00pm on Sunday, November 24. An update will be provided through social media when the maintenance is complete.
Posted On: 11/22/2019 Expired On: 12/14/2019
Rockwall, Texas – November 22 - It’s time to lace up your running shoes and get going for a good cause. The fourth annual Santa Cops 4 Kids 5K and 1 mile fun run takes place Saturday, December 14. The Rockwall Police Officer’s Association (RPOA) is hosting the event once again which will benefit the Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County.
The race begins at 8:00 a.m., and will start and end at Wilkerson-Sanders Memorial Stadium, located at 1201 T.L. Townsend Drive in Rockwall. There will also be a free Santa chase for children 10 and under. You can register for the race online. Through this race over the last three years, the RPOA has raised more than $60,000 to help support the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) for Rockwall County. To learn more about the Rockwall CAC, please visit their website at rockwallcac.org.
Posted On: 11/21/2019 Expired On: 11/30/2019
Rockwall, Texas – November 21 - City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Thursday, November 28 and Friday, November 29, in observance of Thanksgiving. Republic Waste Services will not run on Thanksgiving Day, but Thursday’s garbage and recycling schedule will move to Friday and Friday’s schedule will move to Saturday.
Posted On: 11/4/2019 Expired On: 6/1/2020
Rockwall, Texas - November 4- WEATHER PERMITTING, traffic on SH 276 between SH 205 and FM 549 will shift from its existing configuration to a new alignment on Nov. 11, 2019 at 9:00pm. Traffic will be placed on a newly constructed roadway so that the project can move to the next phase of construction. The existing SH 276 will terminate at TL Townsend Dr. and the new alignment of SH 276 will connect to SH 276 at Sids Rd. A traffic signal will be placed at the new SH 205 and SH 276 intersection.
This closure is part of a $17.6 million project to reconstruct and widen SH 276 in Rockwall County. The project started in fall 2018 and is scheduled to finish in summer 2020.
October 2019
Posted On: 10/29/2019 Expired On: 11/4/2019
Rockwall, Texas – October 29, 2019 – On Monday, November 4, starting at approximately 9:00 a.m. between the 700 and 800 Block of N. Goliad Street, crews will be making repairs to water lines. Traffic will be closed down to one lane during this repair. Repairs are expected to be complete before the end of the day. Traffic will return to normal condition after repairs are complete. In case if inclement weather, this repair will be rescheduled.
Posted On: 10/22/2019 Expired On: 10/25/2019
Rockwall, Texas – October 22, 2019 – Rockwall residents who have damage from Sunday night’s storms need to know where to put their debris. The Republic Services bulk trucks cannot fit in the alleyways and people need to put their storm debris at the front curb, just like they do for regular bulk pickup. Republic will be sending extra trucks out starting Wednesday to areas hardest hit by this weekend’s storms to help alleviate a buildup of excess debris.
Posted On: 10/21/2019 Expired On: 10/28/2019
Rockwall, Texas – October 21 - Rockwall was hit by a severe storm on Sunday evening causing significant damage to multiple homes and knocking out power. Approximately 8 homes sustained minor to moderate damage. Most of the homes that sustained minor/moderate damage were covered with tarps in an attempt to prevent additional damage from rain. City crews continue to remove debris from roadways overnight.
The path of the storm was west to east just north of Downtown Rockwall. Damage was reported from Sunset Hill to the west to Wisperwood to the east.
City of Rockwall personnel have been able to cut fallen trees to the point that all roadways are passable with the exception of Highland Drive in front of Reinhardt Elementary. Cleanup will continue into the daylight hours on Monday. There will be street closures in order to complete clearing storm debris and access to Reinhardt Elementary may be impacted.
Updates will be provided as the cleanup effort continues on Monday.
Posted On: 10/14/2019 Expired On: 10/21/2019
Rockwall, Texas – October 14 - Weather permitting, FM 3549 between I-30 and Airport Rd. will be closed to through traffic from Oct. 18 at 9:00am to Oct. 21 at 6:00am. Through traffic will be detoured to Airport Rd., John King Blvd and the I-30 frontage roads. The closure is needed to replace the Dallas, Garland and Northeastern (DGNO) Railroad crossing on FM 3549.
Posted On: 10/4/2019 Expired On: 10/21/2019
Rockwall, Texas - October 4 - Project Ladera, located at the intersection of John King Blvd. and Highway 66, will have construction operations starting on October 21. The project will require lane closures from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both SH 66 and John King Blvd. The construction is expected to be complete by December 9.
September 2019
Posted On: 9/26/2019 Expired On: 10/2/2019
Rockwall, Texas – September 26 - Texas Night Out 2019 is scheduled for Tuesday, October 1. If you are interested in hosting an event, please contact Community Services Officer David Andrews at (972) 771-7765 or by email at dandrews@rockwall.com
Posted On: 9/17/2019 Expired On: 10/1/2019
Rockwall, Texas – Rockwall, Texas – September 17, 2019 – At their meeting Monday night, September 16, the Rockwall City Council voted to adopt a rate below the effective tax rate, which continues a six-year trend to decrease taxes for Rockwall residents. The approved tax rate is 1.42 cents less than the rate last year. Also at the meeting, the Council adopted the budget for fiscal year 2019-2020.
The City Council directed staff to prepare a balanced budget based on the effective tax rate, which allows the City to collect the same amount in taxes as the year before, as calculated by formulas prescribed by the state. The new tax rate of 38.79 cents per $100 of valuation is down from the 40.21 cents adopted for the previous year. The actual change in ad valorem tax for any individual property is also a function of its assessed value.
Some of the highlights of the 2019-2020 budget include:
• General Operating Budget of $39,048,300 • Total assessed value of $6.05 billion • Three new full-time positions in the Fire Department • Four Parks maintenance workers • A mental health officer in the Police Department • Increased funding for street maintenance projects
“Both as residents of this City and as a Council, fiscal responsibility is of the utmost importance to us. We are happy to adopt a balanced budget that continues to provide a high quality of life for residents, without unduly burdening our taxpayers,” said Rockwall Mayor, Jim Pruitt.
The new budget continues to address important services such as public safety, parks and recreation, and street repair and maintenance. Several factors combined to enable the City to utilize a rate below the effective tax rate without making substantial cuts to the budget, including increasingly robust sales tax revenue coupled with significant increases in growth-related new value. The City’s fiscal year for 2020 begins on October 1, 2019.
Posted On: 9/10/2019 Expired On: 9/24/2019
Rockwall, Texas – September 10, 2019 – Six new members have been selected for the City of Rockwall’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) for the new school year. In addition, six members will return to the leadership organization. YAC helps teach high school-aged students about local government, while providing them with opportunities to hone their leadership skills.
The new students for the 2019-2020 year include Katharine Castro, Chloe Davis, Matt Kianpour, Madison Melcher, Jaxson Stuart, and Marvin Villalobos. Returning students include Mazie Johnson, Peyton Nielsen, Kavya Venugopalan, Mary Claire Weible, Susie Wilson, and Parker Yarbrough.
August 2019
Posted On: 8/30/2019 Expired On: 9/3/2019
Rockwall, TexasM/b> – August 30, 2019 – From Friday Afternoon, August 30, 2019 to Tuesday Morning, September 3, 2019 the section of S. Lakeshore Drive from Agape Circle to the intersection of S. Lakeshore Drive and Summit Ridge Drive (highlighted in Red on the attached map) will be reopened temporarily for the Labor Day Holiday Weekend.
The temporary road closure for the section of S. Lakeshore Drive from Agape Circle to the intersection of S. Lakeshore Drive and Summit Ridge Drive will restart back on Tuesday Morning September 3, 2019 to install storm drainage system. The blocks in Green will be closed to thru traffic but will remain open to local traffic during the duration of this closure.
Posted On: 8/28/2019 Expired On: 9/3/2019
Rockwall, Texas - August 28, 2019 - On Tuesday, September 3, the Rockwall City Council will hold a work session at 4:00 p.m. and discuss an Action Item during the regular city council meeting starting at 6:00 p.m. regarding a sidewalk policy as it relates to the 2018 Roadway Bond projects that were discussed at the previous council meeting. The City Council agenda can be found here: http://www.rockwall.com/meetings.asp.
For updates on this and any other City Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), you can go to the CIP webpage: https://sites.google.com/view/rockwallengineering/home. If you would like to receive email updates on the project when they become available, please sign up for email notifications on the CIP webpage under the project of interest.
Posted On: 8/26/2019 Expired On: 9/2/2019
Rockwall, Texas – August 26, 2019 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, September 2, in observance of Labor Day. Republic Waste Services will run on the normal garbage and recycling collection schedule.
Posted On: 8/23/2019 Expired On: 1/1/2020
Rockwall, Texas – August 23, 2019 – Starting Monday, August 26, 2019 the section of S. Lakeshore Drive from Agape Circle to the intersection of S. Lakeshore Drive and Summit Ridge Drive will be closed temporarily to install storm drainage system. The blocks in Green will be closed to thru traffic but will remain open to local traffic during the duration of this closure. Please seek alternate route during this closure.
For updates on this project and any other City Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) you can go to the City of Rockwall’s Engineering CIP webpage. If you would like to receive email updates on the project when they become available please sign up for email notifications on the CIP webpage above under the project of interest.
For any questions or concerns, feel free to contact James Palmer, City of Rockwall Engineering Construction Inspector, at (469) 974-1773 or jpalmer@rockwall.com.
Posted On: 8/23/2019 Expired On: 9/6/2019
Rockwall, Texas – August 23, 2019 – Some questions have arisen lately about a blue-green algae (or cyanobacteria) bloom in ponds, lakes and streams. The questions stem from a recent incident in Austin, as well as other cities across the country, where pets died after ingesting lake water affected by the blue-green algae. We consulted with chemists at the North Texas Municipal Water District about cyanobacteria, and they offered some advice. It must be stressed that while people can get extremely ill, no harm has come to people, and drinking water is completely safe because of the treatment processes. However, there is no effective way to test or pre-warn for dangers to pets—so the best advice for pet owners is to consult a veterinarian before taking your dog to a lake, pond or stream during the hot summer months.
The danger from a blue-green algae bloom comes from the oil that may be secreted when certain types of algae bloom. Blooms typically happen during the hotter months of the year, from May through October. However, not all blue-green algae emits a toxic oil. The problem with testing lies in the fact that a test performed on one day may show no issue, and the very next day a bloom with toxic oil may be present, rendering a test both impractical and ineffective. Since it’s difficult to monitor the amount of water a dog ingests while playing in water, the best advice may be to avoid the water altogether during times when blooms are most likely.
The toxic oil creates a unique taste and odor, and yet those are not always clear indications of toxicity. It’s important to remember that the treatment process for drinking water is robust and produces a good barrier for toxicity—with a thorough process that includes a combination of ozonation, filtration and disinfection. Talk to your veterinarian and develop the best plan for you to keep your dogs safe.
Posted On: 8/22/2019 Expired On: 9/5/2019
Rockwall, Texas – August 22, 2019 – Water usage in the City of Rockwall has risen sharply over the hot summer months. To combat the heat and keep lawns green, Rockwall residents have increased water utilization substantially from June to July. The average daily water usage for all residents in the city was just over 9.1 million gallons in June. And in July, that average jumped to 15.5 million gallons, including a three-day spread where usage topped 19 million gallons each day!
As a result of the rise in consumption, residents have seen the increase reflected in their water bills. While the hot, dry days in July caused people to finally turn on their sprinkler systems, residents need to look further. Here are a few items to check around the house to help limit water waste and help keep your bill down:
In-ground sprinkler systems are effective, but can also be wasteful. There are many moving parts that can malfunction or be damaged while mowing or edging, for example, and it’s a good idea to test sprinkler heads periodically. In addition, most people set their timers for sprinklers to run in the middle of the night, when no one would be awake to notice a malfunctioning sprinkler.
“One broken sprinkler head can have a major impact,” says Travis Sales, Interim Director of Rockwall Parks and Recreation. “A typical spray head puts out an average 2 gallons per minute, whereas a broken head can put out 20+ gallons per minute. If you run your sprinkler for 20 minutes, without knowing you have a broken head, you could be using 400 gallons per cycle—from just one head, and all systems have multiple heads and multiple zones. Meanwhile, the water is running down the street at 2 a.m., which would most likely dry up by the morning when you see it. Plus, your lawn didn’t receive the much needed water, you’ve got a higher water bill, and we’re wasting a precious natural resource.”
Posted On: 8/20/2019 Expired On: 9/19/2019
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is proposing improvements to John King Boulevard from the junction of SH 205/John King Boulevard (South Goliad Street) to north of John King Boulevard (Collin County Line) in Rockwall County, Texas. The hearing will be held on Thursday, September 19, 2019 at Liberty Hall in the Rockwall County Courthouse, 111 East Yellow Jacket Lane, Rockwall, Texas 75087.
Posted On: 8/9/2019 Expired On: 8/22/2019
Rockwall, Texas – August 9, 2019 – The City of Rockwall is accepting applications for the Youth Advisory Council. The deadline to apply is August 22, 2019. For additional information, go to: Youth Advisory Council Page. For the application, go to: Youth Advisory Council Application
Posted On: 8/8/2019 Expired On: 9/15/2019
The North Central Texas Council of Governments’ Area Agency on Aging is conducting an important survey between now and September 15, 2019, to collect opinions about what matters most to older adults and their caregivers. Input will be used to prioritize services and programs for older adults and caregivers in our area. The survey is available online or by paper copy in both English and Spanish.
Posted On: 8/7/2019 Expired On: 8/10/2019
Rockwall, Texas – August 7, 2019 – The Annual Rockwall Rotary Club Hot Rocks Bicycle Ride will take place on Saturday, August 10, 2019, between the hours of 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM. The ride will Start/Finish at the Wilkerson-Sanders Memorial Stadium located at 1215 TL Townsend Drive. Expect heavy delays and some road closures around the stadium.
Posted On: 8/5/2019 Expired On: 8/8/2019
Rockwall, Texas – August 5, 2019 – The State’s roadway contractor is planning to work overnight on the SH 276 project on Wednesday August 7th and Thursday August 8th from 8:00 pm to 5:30 am. This is to avoid traffic interruptions during the daytime. The work will involve installation of a new storm water drainage line across John King and FM 549.
July 2019
Posted On: 7/26/2019 Expired On: 7/30/2019
Rockwall, Texas – July 26, 2019 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has notified the City of Rockwall that they will be closing a portion of FM 740 next week to repair a section of concrete on the road. Contractors will close FM 740 just past the southbound right turn lane from SH 205. The road will be closed on Monday and Tuesday nights next week, July 29-30 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Cars will still be allowed to turn, but trucks will not be able to until the work is complete.
Posted On: 7/24/2019 Expired On: 8/7/2019
Rockwall, Texas – July 24, 2019 – The big reveal is happening next week. The City of Rockwall is the Free Live Music Capital of North Texas, and to commemorate the moniker, the City will install five guitars around town as public art pieces, all created by local artists. Over the past few months, the artists have been working diligently in their studios to create the masterpieces—and next Thursday, August 1 at 7 p.m., the creations will be unveiled to the public.
Under the direction of the Rockwall Art Commission, five local artists, including Jake Bays, James Kuntz, Nancy Kuntz, Susie Varner, and Kenyon Bevan Walter each designed the guitars to reflect their own personal style. The project is the second for the Art in Public Places program, which is overseen by the Art Commission: Judge David Sweet, Doug Agee, Jane Braddock, Betty Hoaglund, Kathleen Morrow and City Art Liaison, Bethany Browning. Funding for the project is provided by proceeds approved in the 2012 Bond Election to be dedicated to public art.
The guitars will be placed at prominent locations around Rockwall: City Hall, San Jacinto Plaza, Cain’s Corner Park, Harry Myers Park and The Harbor. The reveal will take place next Thursday at the Concert by the Lake at The Harbor—so the public can see the art that will soon represent the City. The final stage is to create pedestals for each guitar, and the art is set to be installed by this fall.
Posted On: 7/23/2019 Expired On: 8/6/2019
Rockwall, Texas – July 23, 2019 – Rockwall Police Chief Kirk Riggs will retire on July 31, 2019 after 13 years of service to Rockwall and more than 40 combined years in law enforcement. Kirk Riggs spent 25 years at the City of Farmers Branch and rose to become the Deputy Chief before being hired to serve as the Assistant Chief of the Rockwall Police Department in 2006. He became the Chief of Police in 2015. Since joining the City, the department has grown from 62 officers and 18 civilian personnel to 85 officers and 24 civilian employees today. The Rockwall Clergy and Police Partnership, Police Explorer Program, expansion of the School Resource Officer program, and implementation of the Guardian Program are some of the many contributions to community-oriented policing accomplished under the direction of Chief Riggs.
“It has been a privilege to serve the citizens of this great city and an honor to lead an outstanding group of men and women in the Rockwall Police Department,” said Chief Kirk Riggs.
“The City appreciates the services of Chief Riggs. He has been instrumental in solidifying the Police Department’s relationships with the business community, including his leadership role on the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and has emphasized community service as a member of the Board for the Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County,” said Rick Crowley, City Manager.
Assistant Chief Kirk Aldridge will lead the Police Department until a new Chief of Police is appointed. Chief Riggs will serve in an advisory capacity to the City for six months after retiring as Chief.
Posted On: 7/23/2019 Expired On: 7/23/2019
Rockwall, Texas – July 23, 2019 – All of the phones lines are currently down for incoming calls for the City of Rockwall, including City Hall, the Municipal Court and the Police and Fire Departments. However, 9-1-1, is not affected. If you need to call the non-emergency number for the Police Department, please use (972) 772-5719. Crews are working to resolve the issue, but there is no estimate yet on when the lines will be repaired.
Posted On: 7/11/2019 Expired On: 7/19/2019
Rockwall, Texas – July 11, 2019 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has just informed the City of Rockwall that contractors will begin construction on SH 276 at 4 a.m. tomorrow, Friday, July 12. Additional early morning construction next week on SH 276 runs from Wednesday, July 17 through Friday, July 19, beginning at 4 a.m. each day.
Posted On: 7/2/2019 Expired On: 7/2/2019
Rockwall, Texas – July 2, 2019 – Reminder that there is no Concert by the Lake and no fireworks this Thursday at The Harbor. However, patriotic residents should head instead to Harry Myers Park to celebrate the Fourth of July.
Events begin that day at 11 a.m. with the parade that winds through Historic Rockwall. Please see attached map for the route. Then later that day just before the fireworks show at dusk, there will be a unique event taking place. The American Legion will commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day, with a parachute demonstration.
Parachutists will jump from a vintage WWII Navy R4D-6S airplane, flown by the Dallas-Fort Worth wing of the Commemorative Air Force. The R4D-6S will fly over Harry Myers Park at about 7:45 p.m., followed by a parachute demonstration at approximately 7:50 p.m. before the fireworks display at dusk. The Terry Fisher American Legion Post marks its 100th anniversary this year. For more information about Fourth of July events, please visit playrockwall.com
June 2019
Posted On: 6/28/2019 Expired On: 7/4/2019
Rockwall, Texas – June 28, 2019 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Thursday, July 4, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 6/28/2019 Expired On: 7/4/2019
Rockwall, Texas – June 28, 2019 – This year’s Fourth of July celebration will be a little more festive than in years past. Onlookers at Harry Myers Park are in for a special patriotic treat. To commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day, the Terry Fisher American Legion Post in Rockwall is planning a unique demonstration.
Parachutists will jump from a vintage WWII Navy R4D-6S airplane, flown by the Dallas-Fort Worth wing of the Commemorative Air Force. The R4D-6S will fly over Harry Myers Park at about 7:45 p.m., followed by a parachute demonstration at approximately 7:50 p.m. before the fireworks display at dusk. The Terry Fisher American Legion Post marks its 100th anniversary this year. For more information about Fourth of July events, please visit playrockwall.com.
Posted On: 6/24/2019 Expired On: 8/24/2019
Rockwall, Texas – June 24, 2019 – Farm to Market (FM) 1140 (Smirl Dr.) will be temporarily converted to one lane between Darr Road and Terry Lane starting this Saturday, June 29. North and Southbound traffic will alternate through this location with the assistance of traffic signals. This configuration is expected to last through August 24 and is needed to construct a culvert.
Portable changeable message boards have been placed in advance to inform the traveling public of the closures. Drivers should expect delays and plan accordingly.
For information on this and other road conditions statewide, visit DriveTexas.org
May 2019
Posted On: 5/24/2019 Expired On: 5/27/2019
Rockwall, Texas – May, 24 2019 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 5/23/2019 Expired On: 7/1/2019
Rockwall, Texas – May 23, 2019 – The Ladera Rockwall project has been approved by the City of Rockwall for construction. This project will include various lane closures on John King Blvd from FM 1141 to south of SH 66 to complete the utility connections required for this project. Please see location map for overall project limits. The utility work will require closing one lane of traffic in each direction on John King Blvd for approximately one month. At this time the anticipated date to start construction is May 30, and the road should be reopened by July 1, weather permitting.
For any questions regarding this project, feel free to contact Sarah Hager at the City of Rockwall Engineering Department at shager@rockwall.com or (972) 771-7746
Posted On: 5/22/2019 Expired On: 6/5/2019
Rockwall, Texas – May 22, 2019 – At this week’s City Council meeting, the Rockwall Police Department was presented the award of “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” from the Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program. Established in 2006, the Recognition Program evaluates a Police Department’s compliance with over 168 Best Business Practices for Texas Law Enforcement.
These best practices were carefully developed by Texas Law Enforcement professionals to assist agencies in the efficient and effective delivery of service and the protection of individual’s rights. These best practices cover all aspects of law enforcement operations including use of force, protection of citizen rights, vehicle pursuits, property and evidence management, and patrol and investigative operations.
The Rockwall Police Department was originally recognized by the Texas Police Chiefs Association Law Enforcement Recognition Program in March 2011. Police agencies recognized by the TPCA must undergo an onsite inspection every 4th year, and this makes the third successful onsite inspection of the Rockwall Police Department.
This voluntary process required the Rockwall Police Department to conduct a critical self-review of the agency’s policies, procedures, facilities and operations. Beginning in November of 2018, the department began the lengthy process to become a “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” by preparing proofs of compliance for each of the Texas Law Enforcement Best Business Practices. Upon completion of the internal review, an outside audit and analysis was requested. This final on-site review took place this past February.
The on-site review is conducted by trained police chiefs from other areas of our state. The result of this review was then sent to the Texas Police Chiefs Association’s Recognition Committee for final analysis and decision to award “Recognized” status. On March 7, the department was notified that it had been awarded the coveted “Recognized Law Enforcement Agency” award. Rockwall was the 42nd agency in the state to be so recognized.
Through this process, the citizens of Rockwall should be assured that its police department is conforming to the current state of the art in law enforcement. The department was also recognized at the Texas Police Chiefs Association annual conference in Galveston in April.
Posted On: 5/9/2019 Expired On: 5/9/2019
Rockwall, Texas - May 9, 2019 - The issue with City of Rockwall phone system has been resolved. Thank you again for your patience.
Posted On: 5/9/2019 Expired On: 5/9/2019
Rockwall, Texas – May 9, 2019 – The City of Rockwall is experiencing a phone system outage coming into all City facilities today. The City’s IT Department is working through the problem. This problem does not affect Emergency 911. Thank you for your patience.
Posted On: 5/6/2019 Expired On: 8/11/2019
Rockwall, Texas – May 6, 2019 – Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has been authorized to complete roadway repairs in Rockwall. This project will include various patching and repairs of concrete on State Highway 66, from SH 205 (Goliad), to the Dallas County Line.
Also part of the work will be repairs of FM 740 (Ridge Rd.), from the intersection of SH 205, to FM 3097 (Horizon). Please see location map for overall project limits. The construction will occur from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. with possible lane closures during the daytime hours. At this time the anticipated date to start construction is May 13, and the work should be complete by August 11.
For any questions regarding this project feel free to contact Sarah Hager, City of Rockwall Engineering Division at shager@rockwall.com or (972) 771-7746.
Posted On: 5/2/2019 Expired On: 5/31/2019
Rockwall, Texas – May 2, 2019 – The City of Rockwall is accepting applications for students who wish to be considered for next school year’s 2019-2020 Rockwall Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The City Council will fill six vacancies on the YAC for the upcoming school year. Applicants should be freshmen through seniors who reside within the city limits of the City of Rockwall.
The purpose of the Rockwall YAC is to provide participation by local youth in municipal government and to teach students more about how local government works. The Rockwall Youth Advisory Council provides opportunities for positive community impact through organized participation in various city-sponsored activities and events. YAC students may also be asked to become involved in initiatives that benefit local youth.
For more information about the program, the selection process, and to submit an application online, visit the Youth Advisory Council page. Two letters of recommendation are required, and applicants are asked to submit by May 31. Letters of recommendation may be e-mailed to kcole@rockwall.com. Brief, 10 minute interviews will be scheduled with applicants sometime in August with appointment selections being made by the Rockwall City Council in September. Questions may be directed to Kristy Cole, City Secretary, either by e-mail or by calling (972) 772-6406.
April 2019
Posted On: 4/25/2019 Expired On: 5/2/2019
Rockwall, Texas – April 25, 2019 – The City of Rockwall will host the Mayors’ Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 2 from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at The Center in Downtown Rockwall, located at 108 East Washington Street, in conjunction with the annual National Day of Prayer. Mayors from cities throughout Rockwall County will be in attendance. First Assistant Attorney General of Texas Jeffrey Mateer will be speaking, and the worship team from Transformation Anglican Church will lead the worship. The theme this year is Love One Another.
There will be a second opportunity for the community to come together in prayer on the same day. A midday prayer event will also be held on May 2 at The Center from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Prayers will be offered by pastors and community leaders.
For those who work or otherwise can’t make the day’s events, there will be a third opportunity to gather in prayer later that evening. This is the first year people will gather for worship outdoors at night. It happens on May 2 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Harry Myers Amphitheater, located at 815 East Washington.
The first Continental Congress called for a National Day of Prayer in 1775, as did Abraham Lincoln in 1863. Then, Congress established the National Day of Prayer as an annual event by joint resolution signed by President Truman in 1952. The law was amended and signed by President Reagan to officially designate the first Thursday in May as the annual date. The events are not political, but rather meant to encourage people county-wide to join their neighbors in a call to pray for our nation just as our national leaders will do in Washington D.C.
Posted On: 4/24/2019 Expired On: 4/30/2019
Rockwall, Texas –April 24, 2019 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will conduct a Public Hearing regarding the proposed roadway improvements to FM 549, from SH 205 to SH 276 in the City of Rockwall, Rockwall County, Texas. The hearing will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2019 at the Liberty Hall Jury Room inside the Rockwall County Courthouse, 1111 East Yellow Jacket Lane, Rockwall, Texas 75087. more...
Posted On: 4/18/2019 Expired On: 5/3/2019
Rockwall, Texas – April 18, 2019 – The 7-Eleven project has been approved by the City of Rockwall for construction. This project will include the addition of a driveway on State Highway 66 (Rusk St) approximately 300-feet west of the intersection with Lakeshore Dr. Please see location map for overall project limits. The project design will require closing one lane of traffic in the west bound direction for two weeks. At this time the anticipated date to start construction is Monday, April 22, and the road should be reopened by May 3.
For any questions regarding this project, feel free to contact shager@rockwall.com at the City of Rockwall Engineering Department at shager@rockwall.com or (972) 771-7746.
Posted On: 4/16/2019 Expired On: 4/30/2019
Rockwall, Texas –April 16, 2019 – Have you subscribed for the Nixle app yet? Nixle is an extremely helpful emergency notification system that provides advanced warning, which is especially beneficial when severe weather comes around. With severe weather in the forecast this week, it’s a good time to discuss safety measures residents can take to stay alert and prepared.
Nixle, utilized by the Rockwall County Office of Emergency Management (RCOEM), allows users to receive an email or text message when severe weather is imminent. In order to sign up for the program, text RCOEM to 888777 or visit nixle.com. The County also uses the service to notify subscribers about major accidents.
In addition to the app, the City of Rockwall maintains 14 outdoor emergency warning sirens strategically placed throughout the city. These sirens are tested on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 2 p.m. unless severe weather is in the area. Outdoor warning sirens are used to warn citizens, who may be outdoors, of an imminent severe weather event in the community and to encourage them to immediately seek shelter indoors.
As a result of findings during routine semi-monthly siren testing, there are four sirens in the process of being repaired or replaced. The good news is that there is system overlap. Residents should be able to hear other sirens in the event that they are sounded. Also, sirens are not intended to warn citizens who may be indoors at the time of the event, although in some cases residents may hear the sirens while inside their home or business. When sirens sound, citizens who are outdoors should quickly move indoors and seek shelter in an innermost room, away from glass windows, and tune to a local news or radio station until it’s been conveyed that safe conditions are restored.
Remember, never call 9-1-1 when you hear sirens sound unless you have a true emergency that requires police or fire response. Since lives could be at stake, 9-1-1 phone lines must remain clear in order to address true emergencies in a timely manner. Using the Nixle app will help you know what is going on. For more information about severe weather and other hazards, please visit www.knowhat2do.com
Posted On: 4/15/2019 Expired On: 4/30/2019
Rockwall, Texas – April 15, 2019 – The City of Rockwall has partnered with a new local company to provide service for household hazardous materials, and the system is expected to be more convenient for residents than the previous once-a-year method. Starting June 1, City of Rockwall residents will be able to call and schedule a porch pickup of hazardous materials—at their own home. The same types of items can be disposed as before. Pickup will be scheduled each Wednesday on a first come first served basis. And once the weekly spots are filled, the resident will be scheduled for the following Wednesday. Watch for more details coming up in the May water bill insert about the process and accepted products.
Posted On: 4/15/2019 Expired On: 4/30/2019
Rockwall, Texas – April 15, 2019 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Friday, April 19, in observance of Good Friday. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 4/12/2019 Expired On: 5/6/2019
Rockwall, Texas –April 12, 2019 – The Whisper Rock Subdivision has been approved by the City of Rockwall for construction. This project will include the addition of a median cut and left turn lane to be installed in Ridge Road (FM 740) south of Benton Woods Drive. Please see location map for overall project limits. The project design will require closing one lane of traffic in each direction on Ridge Road for three weeks. The anticipated start date for construction is Monday, April 15. For any questions regarding this project, feel free to contact Sarah Hager City of Rockwall Engineering Division at shager@rockwall.com or call (972) 771-7746.
Posted On: 4/11/2019 Expired On: 4/15/2019
Rockwall, Texas – April 11, 2019 – The City of Rockwall will be holding a public hearing on April 15, 2019 to consider a request by a developer for a Public Improvement District (PID). The developer-initiated petition is in conjunction with a zoning case (i.e. Z2019-005: Heritage Park) that is proposing to establish a 545-lot residential subdivision and a 55.00-acre public park. Information contained in previous social media posts include numerous factual errors.
A PID is a geographic district that is established to provide specific types of improvements and/or maintenance, which are financed through assessments against the properties within the district. PIDs do not have an effect on any other property in the City, and do not increase the current or future tax rate of any properties. PIDs do not increase taxes paid for properties within the district. The property being considered for the PID is currently vacant land, and if the PID is approved, the assessments will only be levied against future development in the area. This means that regardless of the success of the PID, neither the City nor the City’s taxpayers will be responsible for any of the costs associated with the PID.
In order to create a PID, it would be necessary that the Council authorize its creation, even though the repayment of the debt issued by the PID does not oblige the City or its taxpayers to repay the debt—even in the event of default. To date, the Council has taken no action to authorize the creation of the developer proposed PID. The public hearing scheduled for Monday night will be the first opportunity for the Council to consider the details of the developer’s proposal. For questions concerning the proposed PID or the associated zoning case, please contact the Planning Department at (972) 771-7745 or email planning@rockwall.com
Posted On: 4/11/2019 Expired On: 4/30/2019
Rockwall, Texas – April 11, 2019 – Have you noticed Rockwall City Hall and the Police Department among the buildings around town basked in blue light? The Rockwall City Council voted to recognize the Children’s Advocacy Center’s (CAC) Go Blue for Kids campaign. The Council also proclaimed April as Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, as a way to increase awareness about child abuse and neglect throughout Rockwall County.
Mayor Jim Pruitt helped kick off the month-long awareness campaign on Monday, April 1, at the CAC Go Blue for Kids launch event, by vowing the support of the City Council for the CAC’s cause. At their meeting that same evening, the Rockwall City Council also presented a proclamation to all the groups working to keep kids safe in time of crisis, including the CAC, the Rainbow Room, and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). “While Rockwall is a safe and wonderful place to live, as we grow it is a fact of life that there will be some families in crisis, and it’s our responsibility to protect the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Mayor Pruitt. “Campaigns like this one are important to help shed a light on the problem and engage the community in finding solutions.”
Posted On: 4/3/2019 Expired On: 4/17/2019
Rockwall, Texas –April 3, 2019 – The City of Rockwall Water Department has been recognized for the superior water they provide for residents. At their regular meeting this week, the Rockwall City Council issued a proclamation to honor the department for their excellence. Every three years, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) conducts an in-depth inspection of our city’s local water system. During this year’s evaluation, the TCEQ recognized once again that the processes and procedures utilized to deliver water to Rockwall residents exceeds their testing standards.
Since 2007, the City has maintained a “superior” water rating from the TCEQ. The agency performs an inspection of the system checking 27 items, including facilities, maintenance, recordkeeping and many other criteria. The TCEQ found no violations in their most recent evaluation of Rockwall’s water system. During the evaluation, the TCEQ inspector commented that, “Rockwall has one of the best nitrification plans I’ve ever seen,” and, “I wish every system maintained records as well as Rockwall does.”
The City Council honored the City of Rockwall Water Department employees for their ongoing efforts to benefit the health and wellbeing of residents, by declaring April 1 as Rockwall’s Public Water System Celebration Day. “With the volumes of regulations applicable to public water systems, the accomplishments of the City of Rockwall’s Water department are commendable,” said Mayor Jim Pruitt. “I encourage all citizens to applaud the department’s employees who consistently work to ensure the highest water quality for our community.”
March 2019
Posted On: 3/22/2019 Expired On: 3/29/2019
Rockwall, Texas – March 22, 2019 – Crews will be shifting the westbound lanes of Interstate 30 (I-30) at FM 3549 from their temporary positions to the proposed final configuration from 9:00am to 3:30pm on Friday, March 29. Westbound traffic will be limited to one lane during the traffic shift. Message boards will be positioned in advance. This shift is part of the $32 million interchange improvement project on I30 in Rockwall. Expect delays. For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Public Information Officer Donna Huerta Simmons at donna.simmons@txdot.gov or (469) 203-0620
Posted On: 3/20/2019 Expired On: 3/20/2019
Rockwall, Texas – March 20, 2019 – The City of Rockwall hosted its 5th Annual Realtor Workshop at The Center on Wednesday, March 20, 2019. Over 200 agents attended this annual informational workshop to hear more about Rockwall. Topics included the economic forecast, local and regional road projects and residential and commercial development as well as updates from the Rockwall Independent School District and the Rockwall Economic Development Corporation.
The City of Rockwall would like to extend a special thanks to MetroTex Association of Realtors for their valued partnership over the years. We would also like to thank Ebby Halliday, Insight Research Corporation, RISD and REDC for their support.
Posted On: 3/14/2019 Expired On: 3/16/2019
Rockwall, Texas – March 14, 2019 – Funeral services for the esteemed former Congressman Ralph Hall from Rockwall will take place this weekend. On Saturday, March 16, at around 3:45 p.m., the funeral procession will travel from the First United Methodist Church on E. Yellowjacket Lane, right on SH 205 and north to the Downtown Square. The procession then turns right on E. Rusk in front of the Historic County Courthouse and in front of the Hall Building on the corner of San Jacinto. From there, the procession will turn left onto N. Fannin and on SH 66 to Rest Haven Funeral Home. The Rockwall Police Department will control traffic along the route while the procession is underway, so please plan accordingly.
February 2019
Posted On: 2/25/2019 Expired On: 3/1/2019
Rockwall, Texas – February 25, 2019 – A construction project in Rockwall will require Laguna Drive to be closed for about a week. Starting today, Monday, February 25, one lane of traffic will be closed on Laguna Drive as construction begins. Then tomorrow, Tuesday, February 26, Laguna Drive will be completely closed, and will be reopened in the late afternoon, this Friday, March 1, pending no weather delays in the project.
Posted On: 2/22/2019 Expired On: 4/1/2019
Rockwall, Texas – February 22, 2019 – The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) will temporarily change the disinfectant in its water treatment process from March 4 through April 1, 2019. The annual, routine change is necessary to maintain the regional system and year round water quality.
Posted On: 2/15/2019 Expired On: 2/18/2019
Rockwall, Texas – February 15, 2019 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, February 18, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 2/14/2019 Expired On: 2/20/2019
Rockwall, Texas – February 13, 2019 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has informed the City of Rockwall that they will be performing maintenance on the eastbound exit ramp of I-30 in front of Lake Pointe Church starting tomorrow, Thursday, February 14. The work will require TxDOT to shut down the exit ramp during normal work hours. The work in this area is expected to be complete by next Wednesday, February 20.
Posted On: 2/7/2019 Expired On: 2/16/2019
Rockwall, Texas – February 7, 2019 – Rockwall residents will soon see a change in their rates for water, sewer and garbage collection. The residential water rates are set to increase by 2% in the City of Rockwall. That means the average user will pay less than $1.00 more on their monthly bill. The City was able to contain costs and keep the increase lower than previously anticipated. The new rate reflects the increases in the cost of treated water the City purchases from its supplier, the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD).
The base charge for wastewater will increase by $4.10 each month, and usage rates will go up a little with more consumption. It’s important to note that residents’ wastewater rates are calculated based on an average of the household’s winter water usage, when people typically use less water. The NTMWD also operates wastewater treatment facilities for the City of Rockwall. Reasons for the rise include replacing aging infrastructure, and addressing new unfunded federal regulations implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
There will also be an increase in the cost for garbage collection for Rockwall residents. Solid waste collection rates will go up $1.23 for all residential customers, and 3% for commercial customers. The new rates will be reflected in the monthly utility bills that go out starting February 11.
Posted On: 2/4/2019 Expired On: 2/18/2019
Rockwall, Texas – February 4, 2019 – The Rockwall Fire Department has added six new full-time firefighters to their team. The increase in staffing levels is a move to continue to enhance the service level the department provides.
The City of Rockwall operates a combination department, with full-time and part-time / volunteer staff. As the city grows, the need for more full-time staff has increased. Also, in 2017 the RFD became a limited First Responder Organization, responding to major medical emergencies. This role has increased call volumes significantly, and has already proven invaluable in saving residents’ lives.
The additional on-duty members will help the department continue to provide quality service and enhance the safety of Rockwall residents and visitors to the community.
January 2019
Posted On: 1/28/2019 Expired On: 3/3/2021
Rockwall, Texas – January 28, 2019 – A project to reconstruct South Lakeshore Drive / Summit Ridge Drive in Rockwall begins on Monday, February 4. This project will include the reconstruction or replacement of roadway, sidewalks, certain alleys, water lines, wastewater lines and storm drainage systems in the area. Please see map for overall project limits.
At times during the construction, sections of South Lakeshore and Summit Ridge will have to be closed, limiting access to only one-lane / one-way traffic. For ease of emergency access, the one-way direction will always be northbound on S. Lakeshore and westbound on Summit Ridge. Drivers are asked to please plan accordingly during the duration of the project.
The first phase of construction will begin on the alley between S. Lakeshore and Village Green Drive, as well as the alley between Summit Ridge and Glenn Avenue. (See map – blue highlighted alleys). Future information on trash collection and parking in these alleys will be made available closer to the start of alley construction. Weather permitting, the project is anticipated to be complete in the spring of 2021.
Posted On: 1/15/2019 Expired On: 1/29/2019
Rockwall, Texas – January 15, 2019 – Rockwall Mayor Jim Pruitt has appointed decorated Vietnam War hero, Joseph P. Lynch, to the Housing Authority Board. The board oversees the dwellings set aside for elderly and needy residents in the City of Rockwall. Fifteen year Rockwall resident and local hero, Mr. Lynch, brings a unique experience as the newest appointee to the board.
One of 15 children, Joe Lynch was raised in two different housing projects in the Dorchester and South Boston neighborhoods of Boston. Rising from his humble roots, Mr. Lynch says, gives him a perspective that few others share. “I will strive to help residents in any way I can, by providing hope, motivation and vision to see that there is always a way to achieve your goals.”
Indeed, Joseph Lynch has lived a life of service. To overcome his impoverished background, he enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 17, and he says that has made all the difference in his life. Joe was quickly deployed in Vietnam as a Helicopter Machine Gunner, where he earned four of the military’s top awards before the age of 20. Joe Lynch earned the Silver Star Medal, Purple Heart, Air Medal for Heroism, and the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism, along with many other designations.
“Some people I grew up with got involved with gangs and drugs, and Connie and I were able to escape all that,” Joe said. “The Army helped shape the person I have become, and helped put me on a path to a better future.” After recovering from wounds received in combat, Mr. Lynch joined the 82nd Airborne Division, and rose through the ranks before his retirement as Chief Warrant Officer Three. The last 11 of his 23 years of service were spent in Army Intelligence. Not one to rest on his laurels, Joe earned a master’s degree in management and a graduate-level certification in diversity from Cambridge College, then went on to begin a second illustrious career in manufacturing management.
Connie and Joe Lynch met growing up in the same housing project, and this marks 50 years of marriage for the pair. “I had jobs delivering milk and newspapers to her family,” Joe said. “We were both just kids, and even then, I knew she was the one.” Once in Rockwall, Joe began volunteering for various organizations in the area, including the Rockwall Veteran’s Court, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center Lake Pointe, and the Dallas Veteran’s Court. In 2015, the Rockwall City Council honored Joe Lynch for his service by naming local street, Lynch Court, in his honor. The recognition holds a special significance for Joe, because his uncle and namesake had Joseph P. Lynch Square in Boston named in his honor after he was killed in action during World War II.
When Mayor Pruitt learned about Mr. Lynch’s background, he knew he would be a benefit to the Housing Authority Board. “There are few people who can bring his unique level of service and experience to this role,” Mayor Pruitt said. “We are fortunate to have Mr. Lynch working to help the residents of Rockwall.”
Posted On: 1/11/2019 Expired On: 1/21/2019
Rockwall, Texas – January 11, 2019 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, January 21, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Republic Services will perform their garbage and recycling collection schedule as normal.
Posted On: 1/10/2019 Expired On: 1/24/2019
Rockwall, Texas – January 10, 2019 – The City of Rockwall has offered a service for many years for residents to streamline payments of their utility bills online. It’s convenient, safe and it’s free. But there is another system that appears to be affiliated with the City of Rockwall, that offers to facilitate utility bill payment—and many residents have had problems with the service—so the City is urging caution when using Doxo.com.
In actuality, Doxo.com is a third-party site that enables people to pay their utility bills, but unlike the City of Rockwall’s service, Doxo.com charges a fee, sends a check through the mail and cannot guarantee the bills will post on time—which can result in late fees or disconnection of service on the resident’s City account. The City has no way of knowing the payment has been made until the check arrives in the mail.
If you have additional questions, please feel free to call the Utility Billing Department directly at (972) 771-7736.
Rockwall, Texas – December 21, 2019 – In early 2019, the City of Rockwall will call an election to be held on May 4, 2019 for the purpose of electing the Mayor and three City Councilmembers - one each for Places 1, 3 and 5. Terms for all elected Rockwall City Councilmembers are for a period of two years. All four incumbents - Jim Pruitt, Mayor; Bennie Daniels, Place 1; Kevin Fowler, Place 3; and Dana Macalik, Place 5 - are eligible to run for re-election.
An informational candidate packet for residents who may be interested in learning more about running for Rockwall City Council is available both at City Hall (385 S. Goliad on the 3rd floor, City Secretary’s Office) and online for download via the City Secretary’s webpage. The period for submitting an application for a place on the May 4 ballot runs from Wednesday, January 16 through Friday, February 15.
It is anticipated that the City of Rockwall’s municipal election will again be administered by the Rockwall County Elections Administrator, as has been done in past years. Early voting is scheduled for Monday, April 22 through Tuesday, April 30 (excluding Sunday). Election Day voting will be held Saturday, May 4 from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Specific information concerning polling locations and early voting times will be made available on the city website and on the county Election Administrator’s website as soon as those details become available.
Applications for ballots by mail must be requested from and mailed to the Rockwall County Elections Administrator’s Office and received no later than the close of business on April 23. The address is 915 Whitmore Dr., Suite D, Rockwall, TX 75087.
Please direct questions regarding ballots by mail, voter registration, designated voting locations, voter identification requirements, absentee voting, precincts, etc. to the county elections office by calling (972) 204-6200. Information concerning the Rockwall City Council municipal election may be directed to City Secretary Kristy Cole, by calling (972) 772-6406 or by email at kcole@rockwall.com.
Posted On: 12/19/2018 Expired On: 12/19/2018
Rockwall, Texas – December 18, 2018 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, December 24 and Tuesday, December 25, in observance of Christmas, and Tuesday, January 1, 2019, in observance of New Year’s Day.
Republic Services will not run their normal routes on December 25 or January 1. Garbage and recycling normally collected on Tuesday will be moved to Wednesday for both holidays.
Posted On: 12/10/2018 Expired On: 12/10/2018
Rockwall, Texas – December 10, 2018 – The developer of the Stone Creek subdivision in North Rockwall has announced that they will begin work on an existing section of Hays Road adjacent to their current project. Beginning Tuesday, December 18 through Monday January 28, Hays Road will be temporarily closed from Montrose Drive to the intersection with John King Blvd. The project will include demolition and paving improvements on this portion of the road.
November 2018
Posted On: 11/28/2018 Expired On: 11/28/2018
Rockwall, Texas – November 28, 2018 – No matter what the weather experts predict for this weekend, it will look like a winter wonderland in Rockwall. We’ll even have SNOW in the downtown square! This Saturday, December 1 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., there will be a whole host of activities to help bring on the holiday season.
First on the agenda is the 49th annual Kiwanis Christmas parade, which starts at the Rockwall County Courthouse (1111 E. Yellowjacket Ln.) and winds through Old Town Rockwall for all to see and enjoy (see map for parade route). This parade has been a fun family tradition in Rockwall for nearly 50 years and it’s still going strong.
Next, the small town holiday spirit continues with the Hometown Christmas celebration in Historic Downtown Rockwall. Just a few of the day’s activities include Christmas carolers, a puppet theater, food trucks, bounce houses, and pictures with Santa. Again this year are snow flurries on the San Jacinto Plaza and a snow tubing hill—and both offer endless opportunities for festive family photos. Last year thousands came out to enjoy this exciting annual event on the square.
The celebration wraps up with the 35th annual Christmas Tree Lighting on the lawn in front of City Hall (385 S. Goliad St.). This is a can’t miss event that’s complete with bounce houses, a photo opportunity with Santa, free Christmas cookies and hot chocolate bar—all as lively holiday music fills the air.
Posted On: 11/27/2018 Expired On: 11/27/2018
Rockwall, Texas – November 27, 2018 – Every year Rockwall residents rally to help our neighbors in need during the holidays. Rockwall County Helping Hands has a program to provide toys to make Christmas brighter for more than 1,000 local children.
The annual Toy Drive kicked off on November 16. Toy tags are available at drop-off locations, such as Rockwall City Hall, located at 385 S. Goliad St., and new unwrapped toys must be dropped off by noon on Tuesday, December 11. For more information about ways to help with the toy drive, please visit: RockwallHelpingHands.com.
Posted On: 11/20/2018 Expired On: 11/20/2018
Rockwall, Texas – November 20, 2018 – A project to reconstruct Highland Drive in Rockwall begins on Monday, December 3. This project is part of the 2018 street bond funding approved by voters in May. Phase one covers the portion of Highland Drive between Bedford Falls Lane and Driftwood Street.
The reconstruction project includes concrete curb and gutter, water and sanitary sewer line reconstruction and storm drainage adjustments. Phase 2 is currently in engineering design and covers the portion of Highland Drive from Driftwood Street to Valley Drive. The estimated completion date for the project is Summer 2019.
Posted On: 11/14/2018 Expired On: 11/14/2018
Rockwall, Texas – November 14, 2018 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Thursday, November 22 and Friday, November 23, in observance of Thanksgiving. Republic Waste Services will not run on Thanksgiving Day, but Thursday’s garbage and recycling schedule will move to Friday and Friday’s schedule will move to Saturday.
October 2018
Posted On: 10/30/2018 Expired On: 10/30/2018
Rockwall, Texas – October 30, 2018 – On Wednesday, November 14, the City of Rockwall’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will be hosting its 5th Annual GIS Day event. GIS Day is an international event that showcases how GIS is used and what the technology offers. It also coincides with National Geography Awareness Week, a geographic literacy initiative sponsored by the National Geographic Society.
Rockwall’s GIS will have a map gallery, educational videos, GIS technology, and GPS equipment on display. This event is open to all. It will be hosted at City Hall in the Council Chambers from 11:00am-4:00pm. So don’t miss out! Come and learn how GIS is being used, illustrated, and its value for the City of Rockwall and its residents.
Posted On: 10/26/2018 Expired On: 10/26/2018
Rockwall, Texas – October 26, 2018 – The City of Rockwall’s Planning and Zoning Department will host an open house to present the OURHometown Vision 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update. The open house will be held in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 385 S. Goliad Street, on Monday, November 12 from 6-8 p.m.
All interested citizens and area residents are invited to attend the event. Planning and Zoning Department staff will be available to answer questions from the general public. For more information concerning the proposed update, please visit the project website. In addition to the current website content, a copy of the draft plan, accompanying maps, charts and associated descriptive materials will be provided at the open house.
Then on Tuesday, November 13, the Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and take action on the plan. The proposed plan is anticipated to go to the City Council on November 19 for public hearing and December 3 for adoption. Comments and inquiries may be directed to the City of Rockwall Planning and Zoning Department in person or by calling (972) 771-7745. Citizens who are unable to attend the event are invited to provide feedback about the update here.
September 2018
Posted On: 9/28/2018 Expired On: 9/28/2018
Rockwall, Texas – September 28, 2018 – Residents in neighborhoods across Rockwall prepare to gather for Texas Night Out next week. On Tuesday, October 2, thousands of Rockwall residents will participate in the annual event that helps raise awareness about keeping our community safer. Residents will take part by turning on their porch lights, locking their doors and spending the evening outside with their neighbors.
The National Association of Town Watch founded the annual gathering in 1984, to be held every August. But in 2008, the extreme Texas heat prompted the Texas Police Chief’s Association to request the event be moved to a later date. Neighborhoods plan their own evening; some include block parties, cookouts and parades, and each one will be attended by Rockwall Police officers. The community-based event is designed to unite residents against crime, reinforce community-police partnerships and strengthen neighborhood spirit. For more information about Texas Night Out in your area, please contact your neighborhood’s homeowner’s association.
Posted On: 9/17/2018 Expired On: 9/17/2018
Rockwall, Texas – September 17, 2018 – The Rockwall Municipal Court will be unable to access cases September 24, 2018 from 8 a.m. to approximately 12 noon due to system upgrades. Online payments will also be unavailable. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Posted On: 9/14/2018 Expired On: 9/14/2018
Rockwall, Texas – September 14, 2018 – Six new members have been selected for the City of Rockwall’s Youth Advisory Council (YAC) for the new school year. In addition, six members will return to the leadership organization. Every year, the Rockwall City Council sponsors YAC, which helps teach high school-aged students about local government, while providing them with opportunities to hone their leadership skills.
The new students for the 2018-2019 year include Nicholas Alverson, Kendall Braddock, Mazie Johnson, Peyton Nielsen, Kavya Venugopalan, and Susie Wilson. Returning students include Caleb Davis, Brenden Ivey, Addison Schale, Mary Claire Weible, Emily Williams, and Parker Yarbrough.
YAC has an eventful year planned for the students to learn about various roles in municipal government. Some of the YAC activities for this year include teen court training, team building exercises, and presentations from Animal Services, the Police Department, a Building Inspector, the Health Inspector, and a discussion with the City of Fate about managing explosive growth. In the spring, the members will attend a summit, where they learn from other YAC students throughout the state. At the conclusion of the program, the students present a summary of their YAC experiences and graduating seniors are honored by the Rockwall City Council.
Posted On: 9/14/2018 Expired On: 9/14/2018
Rockwall, Texas – September 14, 2018 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has informed the City of Rockwall that they have contractors working today, September 14, near the intersection of SH 205 (Goliad) at Washington Street in Downtown Rockwall. The crews are performing concrete repairs on the center and outside lanes until 6 p.m. The work is expected to resume on Monday, September 17, on the center and inside lanes and be completed later that day. Please expect delays during these times, and take an alternate route if possible.
Posted On: 9/14/2018 Expired On: 9/14/2018
Rockwall, Texas – September 14, 2018 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has begun construction to widen SH 276. As part of that project, TxDOT has informed the City of Rockwall that they will close Graystone between Hickory Creek and Englewood for three days. The closure begins at 9 a.m. on Monday, September 17 and is expected to last until sometime Wednesday, September 19. Crews will be in the area to ensure residents have access to their homes during this time.
Posted On: 9/7/2018 Expired On: 9/7/2018
Rockwall, Texas – September 7, 2018 – The threat of inclement weather has caused the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to postpone their construction on FM 3549, originally planned for today. The construction has been rescheduled for Tuesday, September 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. At that time, workers will shut down FM 3549 between SH 66 and the I-30 service road, blocking access from Airport Road and Riding Club. However, residents will have access to their homes. Both TxDOT and their contractor will be on site with traffic control to help ensure public safety. Please plan to use an alternate route if possible.
Posted On: 9/6/2018 Expired On: 9/6/2018
The Recycle Coach app (formerly known as My Waste) is a helpful resource to track and manage your trash and recycling services within the City of Rockwall.
The app can provide personalized collection schedules for web and mobile. Another feature is an interactive tool to communicate trash issues with city staff. For instance, if you experience service problems, you can snap a picture and send it straight to the Utility Billing Department. In addition, the app enables the City to push out schedule changes and updates as they are needed.
Rockwall, Texas – September 5, 2018 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has informed the City of Rockwall that they will be shutting down FM 3549 this Friday, September 7, due to construction on the road from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Workers will shut down FM 3549 between SH 66 and the I-30 Service Road, blocking access from Airport Road and Riding Club. However, residents will have access to their homes. Both TxDOT and their contractor will be on site with traffic control to help ensure public safety. Please plan to use an alternate route if possible.
August 2018
Posted On: 8/28/2018 Expired On: 8/28/2018
Rockwall, Texas – August 28, 2018 – The developer of the Stone Creek subdivision in North Rockwall has announced that demolition and paving improvements will begin on the intersection of Quail Run Road and Hays Road on Wednesday, August 29, barring any unexpected delays. Traffic control measures will be installed at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, August 29, and will remain in place until completion of the intersection on Tuesday, September 4.
Posted On: 8/22/2018 Expired On: 8/22/2018
Rockwall, Texas – August 22, 2018 – City of Rockwall offices will be closed on Monday, September 3, in observance of Labor Day. Republic Waste Services will run on the normal garbage and recycling collection schedule.
Posted On: 8/9/2018 Expired On: 8/9/2018
Beginning, Thursday, August 09, 2018, only 1 boat ramp will be open due to low lake levels. Two other boat ramps are too shallow and will be closed until lake levels increase enough to allow users to launch without the possibility of damage to their water craft. Lake Ray Hubbard is currently down more than 3 feet.
The Rockwall Parks & Recreation Department will continue to monitor lake levels throughout the summer and place signage at the boat ramps, and provide updates to the community on Facebook and at www.playrockwall.com
Posted On: 8/1/2018 Expired On: 8/1/2018
Rockwall, Texas – August 1, 2018 – The City of Rockwall is accepting applications for students who wish to be considered for the 2018-2019 Rockwall Youth Advisory Council (YAC). The City Council will fill four vacancies on the YAC for the upcoming school year. Applicants should be freshmen through seniors who reside within the city limits of the City of Rockwall. The purpose of the Rockwall YAC is to provide participation by local youth in municipal government and to teach students more about how local government works. The Rockwall Youth Advisory Council provides opportunities for positive community impact through organized participation in various city-sponsored activities and events. YAC students may also become involved in initiatives that benefit local youth.
For more information about the program and to submit an application online, click here.... At least one letter of recommendation is required, and applications are due no later than Monday, August 27 by 8:00 a.m. Letters of recommendation may be e-mailed to Kristy Cole. Interviews will be scheduled for the afternoon of Thurs., August 30 with appointment selections being made by the Rockwall City Council at its Tuesday, September 4 meeting. If you apply, please be sure to make yourself available after school on Thurs., August 30 for a brief (10 min.) interview. Questions may be directed to Kristy Cole, City Secretary, either by e-mail or by calling (972) 772-6406.
July 2018
Posted On: 7/26/2018 Expired On: 7/26/2018
Rockwall, Texas – July 25, 2018 – WEATHER PERMITTING, on August 1 from 9:00am to 3:30pm, traffic will be reduced to one lane on westbound I-30 at FM 3549 to shift traffic onto permanent pavement. Following the shift, two lanes will be open. The new traffic patterm will allow the project to enter the next phase of construction. The $32 million project will reconstruct the interchange, frontage roads and ramps at FM 3549 and I-30.
Posted On: 7/24/2018 Expired On: 7/24/2018
Rockwall, Texas – July 24, 2018 – Oncor has advised that an 18-wheeler has clipped power lines at I-30 and Ridge Road. The accident has damaged a transformer and caused a power outage for about 21 businesses in the vicinity. Oncor representatives are in the process of contacting affected businesses. Crews are on the scene and estimate that cleanup and repairs could take between 5-6 hours.
Posted On: 7/20/2018 Expired On: 7/20/2018
Rockwall, Texas – July 20, 2018 – The Rockwall Economic Development Corporation (REDC) has announced Phil Wagner as the new President of the organization. The decision was finalized by the REDC Board of Directors at their meeting on July 19.
Dale Cherry, REDC Board Chairman, said, “After an extensive nationwide search, we are excited to announce Phil Wagner as President of the REDC. Phil brings great energy, experience, and focus to our organization, and his skills and personality are synergistic with those of our staff. On behalf of the REDC Board of Directors, I’d like to welcome Phil and his wife, Allison, to the Rockwall community.”
Posted On: 7/18/2018 Expired On: 7/18/2018
Rockwall, Texas – July 18, 2018 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will begin work on a project to widen SH 276 on Monday, August 13. From SH 205 to FM 549, the roadway will be widened to a four-lane highway with a center median and sidewalks. In addition, the SH 276 / SH 205 intersection will be relocated to the south to align with Sids Road. The existing SH 276 / SH 205 intersection will remain, but will not connect to the realigned SH 276. The project is estimated to be completed by the Spring of 2020.
Posted On: 7/12/2018 Expired On: 7/12/2018
Rockwall, Texas – July 12, 2018 – The City of Rockwall is encouraging residents to take proactive steps during the hot summer months to help protect against mosquito-borne illness. Mosquitoes are worst especially at dusk and dawn, and they can spread illnesses such as West Nile virus and Zika. Here are a few ways to reduce exposure:
1. Use an approved insect repellent every time you go outside and follow the instructions on the label. Approved repellents are those that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
2. Regularly drain standing water, including water that collects in empty cans, tires, buckets, clogged rain gutters and saucers under potted plants. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water.
3. Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Currently no confirmed human cases of West Nile Virus have been found within the City of Rockwall. If you would like to report an area with stagnant water that you request to be treated, email wyoung@rockwall.com. Please keep in mind, that the City is only able to treat stagnant water on public property. For additional information, visit the CDC website
June 2018
Posted On: 6/20/2018 Expired On: 6/20/2018
Rockwall, Texas – June 20, 2018 – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has informed the City of Rockwall that they will begin a maintenance project on FM 1141, from SH 66 to FM 552, starting Monday, June 25. As part of the project TxDOT will create two 11 foot lanes with a three foot shoulder in each direction. The project is scheduled to be completed by the summer of 2019.
Posted On: 6/5/2018 Expired On: 6/5/2018
Rockwall, Texas – June 5, 2018 – The developer of the Stone Creek subdivision in North Rockwall has announced that construction will begin on Quail Run Road on Monday, June 18. Demolition and paving improvements are set to begin on Quail Run Road between Memorial Drive and Hays Lane, barring any unexpected delays. Traffic control measures will be installed at 9 a.m. on June 18, and will remain in place until the project completion about September 2.
Rockwall, Texas – June 28, 2017 – The latest North Texas Municipal Water District Consumer Confidence Report is available on their website. NTMWD Consumer Cconfidence Report
Rockwall, Texas – September 20, 2016 – At their regular meeting last night, the Rockwall City Council decreased taxes to the lowest rate since 2008. In the vote, the Council adopted a balanced budget and a 3.1 cent drop in the tax rate.
The City Council directed staff to prepare a balanced budget based on the effective tax rate, which allows the City to collect the same amount in taxes as the year before. The new tax rate of 45.43 cents per $100 of valuation is down from the 48.53 cents adopted in 2016.
Some of the highlights of the 2016-2017 budget include:
1. General Operating Budget of $34,044,150
2. Total assessed value of $5.1 billion
3. Three new firefighter / driver positions in the Fire Department
4. One new patrol officer and one captain position in the Police Department; $250,000 for security improvements to the Rockwall Police Department building; and nine new police vehicles
5. $481,000 for participation in the Rockwall County Interoperable Public Safety Radio System
6. $131,000 for a local match to a Texas Parks & Wildlife Grant to add a third boat ramp, second courtesy dock, additional lighting and parking at the SH 66 Boat Ramp. TP&W will pay $372,000 of the project cost
7. $1,400,000 for street maintenance and repairs
8. A traffic signal at Steger Town Road and Ralph Hall Parkway intersection
“I want to thank my fellow City Council members for their dedication to providing Rockwall citizens with a high quality of life, and for doing so without passing the burden on to our taxpayers,” said Rockwall Mayor, Jim Pruitt.
The new budget reflects the City Council’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, while continuing to address important services such as public safety, parks and recreation, and street repair and maintenance. Several factors combined to enable the City to utilize the effective tax rate without making substantial cuts to the budget, including strong sales tax revenue coupled with high end growth, and a reduction in debt by refinancing the City’s existing debt at a lower interest rate, saving nearly $10 million over the remaining life of the bonds. The City’s fiscal year for 2017 begins on October 1.
Posted On: 9/12/2016 Expired On: 9/12/2016
Rockwall, Texas – September 12, 2016 – Philanthropic residents in Rockwall have created a way for people to extend financial support for the Rockwall Police Department. Money donated to the Silent Partners organization helps ensure police in Rockwall have everything they need to do their jobs effectively and return home safely to their loved ones. Rockwall Mayor, Jim Pruitt, and Chief Kirk Riggs of the Rockwall Police Department will be among those gathering this week to thank area residents for their generous support. The event takes place this Wednesday, September 14, at 3 p.m. on the San Jacinto Plaza in Downtown Rockwall, and the public is invited to attend.
Rockwall residents have been moved by recent events involving police in Dallas and across the country, and wanted to reach out to show their support for local law enforcement. The funds received will directly benefit officers of the Rockwall Police Department for things such as assisting the families of fallen officers in Rockwall County, sending representatives to fallen officers’ funerals, and supporting local non-profit organizations and college scholarships.
“This new organization provides an incredible opportunity for those who have expressed an interest in giving to this worthwhile cause without being in the limelight,” said Mayor Pruitt. Anyone who would like to donate can send their contributions directly to the Rockwall Police Department at 205 West Rusk Street, Rockwall, Texas 75087. Please make sure to specify “Silent Partners” on the check, and donations of any amount are greatly appreciated.
Posted On: 9/1/2016 Expired On: 9/1/2016
Rockwall, Texas – September 1, 2016 – At their September 19 meeting, the Rockwall City Council will consider adoption of a balanced budget with a 3.1 cent decrease in the tax rate. The proposed tax rate of 45.43 cents per $100 of valuation is a decrease from the 48.53 cents adopted in 2016. The Council held an open meeting last Thursday for a budget work session to discuss the proposed 2017 budget, and a public hearing will take place at their regular meeting next Tuesday, September 6 at 6 p.m. at City Hall, located at 385 South Goliad Street.
Under direction of the City Council, City Manager Rick Crowley presented a budget that addresses public safety, parks and recreation, streets and many other important needs throughout the city. The Rockwall City Council directed staff to prepare a balanced budget based on the effective tax rate, which allows the City to collect the same amount in taxes as the year before. The proposed tax rate is the lowest since 2008.
The City of Rockwall’s fiscal year 2017 proposed budget allows for several significant improvements without negatively impacting the tax rate. Some of the key elements of the FY 2017 budget include funding three new full-time firefighter positions, adding a new patrol officer and a new captain position in the police department, as well as a 40% increase in street maintenance project funding.
Several factors have combined to enable the City to utilize the effective tax rate without making substantial cuts to the budget, including strong sales tax revenue, an increase in taxable values due to reappraisals, and a reduction in debt due to refinancing of the City’s existing debt at a lower interest rate.
August 2016
Posted On: 8/31/2016 Expired On: 8/31/2016
Rockwall, Texas – August 31, 2016 - The City of Rockwall has been notified by American Water Resources of Texas that they will be mailing Rockwall residents about the services they provide regarding water and wastewater line maintenance and repairs.
The City of Rockwall maintains and repairs its water and wastewater lines up to the point that it connects with the customer's meter. On the residential side of the meter, up to and into the home or business is the responsibility of the property owner if a problem should arise, such as normal wear and tear, line collapse, or clogs. Typically, a plumber is called in those instances for assessment and repair by the property owner.
The programs offered by American Water Resources of Texas or any other organization of this type are independent of the City of Rockwall. The City of Rockwall does not have an agreement with any company to offer this type of service, nor does it endorse or require homeowners to purchase this type of coverage.
Posted On: 8/2/2016 Expired On: 8/2/2016
Rockwall, Texas – August 2, 2016 – The Rockwall Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is a great way for teens to learn about and become active in municipal government. Several graduating high school seniors this year have left vacancies in the organization, and the City of Rockwall is accepting applications for students who would like to be considered for the 2016-2017 school year. Applicants must be high school students who reside within the City of Rockwall. The Rockwall YAC provides an opportunity for local youth to positively impact their community by participating in municipal government as well as City-sponsored activities and events.
At least one letter of recommendation is required, and applications are due no later than Friday, September 2. Interviews will be scheduled in early September with appointment selections estimated to be made by the end of September.
April 2016
Posted On: 4/27/2016 Expired On: 4/27/2016
Rockwall, Texas – April 27, 2016 – If you need to clean out your medicine cabinet, you can do that this weekend. The Rockwall Police Department is providing an opportunity for people to safely dispose of old or unused prescription and over the counter medicines. It’s part of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Drug Take Back Initiative, and it happens this Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the John Fitzwater, Sr. Community Services Center, located at 1113 Ridge Road (in the old Brookshire's Shopping Center).
The DEA established the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day as a way to provide a safe, convenient way for people to discard prescription drugs, and at the same time educate the public about the dangers of medication abuse. At the drop-off, the Rockwall PD is not able to accept liquids or aerosols, such as inhalers. If you are not able to make it on Saturday, you can still dispose of your unused medications, 24-hours a day at the Rockwall Police Department, 205 West Rusk Street, near the Communications Center entrance.
Posted On: 4/26/2016 Expired On: 4/26/2016
Rockwall, Texas – In Texas, spring is the season when severe weather is most likely to occur, and spring has sprung in the North Central Texas area. Severe thunderstorms may form in a matter of minutes, possibly bringing with them large hail, damaging winds, dangerous tornadoes and lightning. These storms may also produce very heavy rain, dropping several inches in the span of an hour, potentially causing hazardous flash flooding.
The City of Rockwall urges residents to be informed and prepare in advance of severe weather and other threats. Preparedness includes having an “all hazards” emergency action plan at home, at school, and at the office and being ready to put that plan into action when necessary.
Posted On: 4/15/2016 Expired On: 4/15/2016
Rockwall, Texas – April 15, 2016 – The City of Rockwall welcomes antique car and history enthusiasts who plan to gather next Friday, April 22, at about 10:20 a.m., in the hopes of catching a glimpse into the past. About 50 antique cars, some dating back to the early 1900s, will roll through Rockwall next week and make a brief 30-minute stop around the Historic Downtown Courthouse, as part of an event to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Historic Bankhead Highway.
The highway, which is SH 66 through Rockwall, was the first to connect the nation from coast to coast. In 1916, U.S. Senator, John H. Bankhead, spearheaded the project for the road that would bear his name. This was a monumental undertaking for the time, because the Bankhead Highway was the first federally subsidized all-weather roadway that connected Washington, D.C. to San Diego. Interestingly, almost one third of the road ran through Texas, from Texarkana to El Paso, as Texas Highway 1.
The Antique American Independent Automobile Association (AAIAA) is hosting the Bankhead Highway Centennial Celebration, featuring a vintage car tour across Texas. The tour starts in Texarkana on April 20, and ends in Odessa on April 24. The American made cars range from the 1920s to the 1960s, and they are scheduled to make a very brief stop in Rockwall next Friday morning. The City of Rockwall will host a small reception for the drivers on their tour, and be forewarned, they will only be here for 30 minutes before they head back on the road. The public is invited to attend the abbreviated tour stop, to view the cars, visit with the owners, and share in a little piece of history.
Posted On: 4/14/2016 Expired On: 4/14/2016
Rockwall, Texas – April 14, 2016 – The City of Rockwall will host the Mayors’ Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 5, 2016 from 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. at The Center in Downtown Rockwall, 108 E. Washington Street, in conjunction with the annual National Day of Prayer. Mayors from cities throughout Rockwall County will be in attendance. The theme this year is, “Wake Up America,” and the speaker will be David Shibley with Global Advance.
There will be a second opportunity for the community to come together in prayer on May 5. A Community Midday Prayer event will be held at The Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Prayers will be offered by pastors and community leaders.
The first Continental Congress called for a National Day of Prayer in 1775, as did Abraham Lincoln in 1863. Congress established the National Day of Prayer as an annual event by joint resolution signed by President Truman in 1952. The law was amended and signed by President Reagan to officially designate the first Thursday in May as the official date. The events are not political, but rather meant to encourage people county-wide to join their neighbors in a call to pray for our nation, just as our national leaders will do in Washington D.C.
Posted On: 4/14/2016 Expired On: 4/14/2016
Storms tend to hit hard in North Texas, and when they do, there are often many opportunists looking to take advantage of people in need of roof repairs. Keep in mind that the State of Texas does not require licensing for roofing contractors. Additionally, insurance is not mandatory. These factors open the door for anyone to operate as a roofing company. So how do you know if the roofing contractor you choose is experienced, ethical and capable of providing reliable service before and after the work is complete? Here is a list to help guide your decision: full article...
Posted On: 4/8/2016 Expired On: 4/8/2016
Rockwall, Texas – April 8, 2016 – The excitement is mounting as Celebrate Downtown Rockwall is a week away. For the past three years, Rockwall residents and patrons have waited with anticipation for the $8.625 million Capital Improvement Project (CIP) to be complete. Now, to officially unveil the new face of Downtown Rockwall, the Old Town Shoppes have partnered with the City of Rockwall to throw a party unlike any other.
On Saturday, April 16, Downtown Rockwall will be alive with activity, starting at 11 a.m. with a Farmers' Market on the San Jacinto Plaza, a parade at noon of "Rockwall Through the Decades," followed by an antique car show, tours of the Historic Courthouse jail and a walking tour of the historic square. The festive event is accented with street dancing, and live music by the Scotty Isaacs Band from 1-5 p.m., and InsideOut Band performing from 7-9 p.m. There is plenty for children as well, including shows by the Dallas Puppet Theater, carousel rides, and balloon artists, just to name a few. For hungry patrons, there will also be food trucks on hand from 1-5 p.m.
Set to commemorate both then and now, Celebrate Downtown Rockwall mirrors a key aspect of the revitalization project, which was voter-approved in the 2012 bond election. The City went to great lengths to preserve the area's beauty and rich history, while at the same time, transforming the downtown area into an inviting, future-forward public space that will welcome residents and visitors for years to come. Some of the changes include the addition of new parking, landscaping, lighting, sidewalk improvements, and the creation of San Jacinto Plaza, which has already gained popularity as a cozy venue for live music.
The party ultimately serves as an open invitation for the public to return to the Historic District—interestingly though, the people never really left. Downtown Rockwall continued to thrive, and be a destination for patrons, despite the temporary challenges the revitalization project may have presented. The improvements have bolstered business downtown, and event goers are encouraged to stroll and visit the shops during an open house event from 4-7 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend Celebrate Downtown Rockwall, and all the day's entertainment is free to the public.
Posted On: 4/7/2016 Expired On: 4/7/2016
Rockwall, County – In an ongoing effort to enhance state roadways and improve safety, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) approved a contract to widen safety shoulders and add turn lanes at major intersections on SH 66 from just west of FM 1141 to the Hunt County Line. The contract for the $15.8 million project was awarded to APAC - Texas Inc. Construction dates will be established in upcoming meetings between TxDOT and the contractor.
March 2016
Posted On: 3/30/2016 Expired On: 3/30/2016
Rockwall, Texas – March 30, 2016 – The City of Rockwall has made it a priority to beautify its parks and open spaces, and aims to do so by planting the same number of trees each year as the City is old. That means since the City turns 162 in 2016, this year, the Parks and Recreation Department plans to plant 162 trees. The City is a little closer to achieving that goal this year, with a donation of 20 trees in a ceremony this week for The Park at Foxchase.
The tree donation comes from Atmos Energy, Texas 811, and the Texas Trees Foundation as part of the “Fueling Cleaner and Greener Communities” initiative that kicked off last summer. The planting ceremony takes place this Thursday, March 31, at 4 p.m. at The Park at Foxchase at 4475 Tubbs Road in Rockwall. This particular park was chosen for the donation because it was originally a wide open park, with very few natural trees. The new planting will be a great addition to the number of trees the City has already established at Foxchase.
The campaign kicked off on August 11, 2015, which is National 811 Day, in an effort to raise awareness about calling 811 before digging. Calling 811 before digging enables property owners and contractors to connect with the Texas call center, to notify the appropriate utility companies about the excavation. The event this week is a continuation of Atmos Energy’s commitment to plant 811 trees by National Safe Digging Month in April 2016. The public is invited to attend.
Posted On: 3/28/2016 Expired On: 3/28/2016
Rockwall, Texas – March 28, 2016 – Starstruck fans gathered in Rockwall this past weekend to catch a glimpse of a singing sensation with Rockwall ties. Dalton Rapattoni, top 4 finalist in the American Idol singing competition, is also a teacher at the School of Rock in Rockwall. He was in town Saturday as part of the Fox Network show’s Hometown Visit. Rockwall Mayor, Jim Pruitt, presented the singer with a key to the City in appreciation for being a great ambassador for the community to the rest of the world.
Crowds started gathering in Downtown Rockwall’s Historic San Jacinto Plaza about 10 a.m. The house band from the School of Rock in Dallas treated crowds to a concert as they waited for Dalton to arrive. His sister is a member of the band and sang several songs with their parents looking on. Then, the excitement level picked up when the American Idol production crews pulled up in a stretch limousine, and Dalton exited with cameras rolling.
As Mayor Pruitt gifted him with the key, Dalton reacted with surprise, humility and gratitude. “I’ve never gotten a key to anything before,” he said. Many in the crowd of hundreds were family, friends and students from the School of Rock, anxious to see their teacher since his successful stint in Hollywood. The 20-year-old Rapattoni was all smiles as he interacted with fans, took selfies with them, and even treated the crowds to a brief, impromptu performance.
Dalton finished his Rockwall visit with a tour of the School of Rock, reminiscing with family and friends. After the Rockwall event, the American Idol caravan headed across the lake to Sunnyvale, Dalton’s hometown, for a scheduled parade and concert later in the day. The entire homecoming segment is set to air on American Idol this Thursday evening. This is the 15th and final season for the singing competition, which airs locally every Thursday on Fox 4 in Dallas.
Posted On: 3/16/2016 Expired On: 3/16/2016
Rockwall, Texas – March 16, 2016 – The Easter Bunny will make an appearance this weekend in Rockwall—so be sure to bring your camera to get a good picture. The Rockwall Parks and Recreation Department will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt at Harry Myers Park this Saturday, March 19, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. All the day’s events are free, and children of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in the fun.
There will truly be something for everyone at this 13th annual event, including bounce houses, inflatable derby races, obstacle courses, and even a petting zoo. There will also be cotton candy, popcorn and about 35,000 strategically hidden Easter eggs, some of which include “eggstra” special prizes!
Families may want to get to Harry Myers Park early to get a good spot, because the Easter Egg Hunt starts at 9:30 a.m. The events will be separated by age groups to give younger children a better chance at hunting. In addition, this year, there will be an added feature for children with special needs. Good weather is expected for Saturday, so the Rockwall Parks Department is expecting a huge turnout for the day’s events, which could top last year’s record of nearly 2,000.
Posted On: 3/15/2016 Expired On: 3/15/2016
Rockwall, Texas – March 15, 2016 –The Rockwall Founders’ Day Festival 2016, celebrating Rockwall’s 162nd birthday, is shaping up to be quite a celebration, especially with the announcement of big name country music performers, Diamond Rio and Stoney LaRue. With more than 100 live music events free to the public annually, Rockwall is the Live Music Capital of North Texas, and the Founders’ Day Festival is one of the biggest events the City hosts every year. This year’s festival, takes place on Saturday, May 21, at Harry Myers Park in Rockwall, and all the day’s entertainment is free to the public.
Posted On: 3/8/2016 Expired On: 3/8/2016
Rockwall, Texas – March 8, 2016 – Rockwall’s City Secretary, Kristy Cole, was recognized by the City Council at a recent meeting for going above and beyond in her role for the City. Rockwall Mayor, Jim Pruitt, received a letter acknowledging that Cole recently graduated from the Texas Municipal Clerks Certification Program. Mayor Pruitt read the letter during the meeting and recognized Cole for her tenacity and dedication to the City of Rockwall.
The Texas Municipal Clerks Certification Program is a recognized and endorsed professional development program administered through the University of North Texas. As part of the program, students must complete more than 200 hours of individual study, which includes submission of written work and successfully passing four examinations. Course content covers topics such as municipal finance, municipal law, election law, public economics, public administration, human resource management, public and media relations, communications, office administration, and municipal court administration. Each student is also required to attend eight seminars related to the course material, which equals more than 100 hours of additional instruction.
Cole has worked for the City of Rockwall for nearly 13 years, and has served in the capacity of City Secretary for eight years. “It was an honor to be recognized by Mayor Pruitt and the Council for this milestone achievement,” Cole said. “I thoroughly enjoy the work I do for the City of Rockwall and our citizens, and I look forward to the future with gratitude and enthusiasm.”
Posted On: 3/4/2016 Expired On: 3/4/2016
Rockwall, Texas – March 4, 2016 – Last year the Texas Department of Transportation began the substantial task of planning for improvements of State Highway 205, which is currently Goliad Street through Rockwall. The scope of this TxDOT planning project runs from SH 78 in Lavon to US 80 in Terrell. Rockwall and all other entities along the route are given the opportunity to participate in this planning project. The planning project provides an opportunity for the City of Rockwall to support the designation of John King Boulevard as the route through the city for SH 205—as had been envisioned when John King Blvd. was approved by Rockwall voters in 2005.
Posted On: 3/1/2016 Expired On: 3/1/2016
Rockwall, Texas – March 1, 2016 – It’s an annual dilemma—the kids are out of school for Spring Break, and you have to work. Are there activities for your young children that can keep them engaged and entertained during their week of vacation? The answer is a resounding, “YES!” R.O.C.K. Camp, or Rockwall Outdoor Classroom for Kids, is set to be another big one this year and spaces are filling up fast.
Designed for children ages 6-12, R.O.C.K. Camp, offered by the Rockwall Parks and Recreation Department, started 12 years ago, and in that time, it has grown exponentially. Young explorers embark on exciting adventures to locations in and around Dallas, including: Heard Natural Science Museum, Cowboys Stadium, and Dallas Arboretum and Children’s Garden, just to name a few. Parents can rest assured that their children are well-cared for during these outings, as they are chaperoned by Parks and Recreation staff, and students are divided by age groups. Additionally, at a nominal cost of less than $150 for the whole week for Rockwall residents, R.O.C.K. Camp is a real bargain.
Space is limited for the week, there is only room for 55 kids, so be sure to visit PlayRockwall.com to reserve your spot today. Make sure to send your youngsters with a sack lunch, snack and water bottle each day, because this is an interactive camp, with a lot of physical activity. Be prepared… you and your child both may be surprised by the week’s end that they don’t even miss their cell phone!
February 2016
Posted On: 2/29/2016 Expired On: 2/29/2016
The Rockwall ISD Board of Trustees is seeking input from across the district on the qualities and characteristics that our community would like to see in the next superintendent. Currently the superintendent search firm hired by the Board of Trustees, Horn, Smith, Wood and Preston Educational Consultants, is conducting staff and community input meetings. Your participation is appreciated online as well. Please take the survey below to share your input with the Board of Trustees. The survey period is 8 a.m. on Monday, February 29 through 4 p.m. on Friday, March 4.
Posted On: 2/24/2016 Expired On: 2/24/2016
Rockwall, Texas – February 24, 2016 – The City of Rockwall recently called an election to be held on May 7, 2016 for the purpose of electing three City Council Members, one each for Places 2, 4 and 6. All three incumbents, including John Hohenshelt (Place 2), Dennis Lewis (Place 4), and Mike Townsend (Place 6), filed appropriate paperwork to appear on the ballot in hopes of serving an additional two-year term in office. The filing deadline to submit an application to run for city council in the General Election was Friday, February 19, and the last day to declare write-in candidacy on the ballot was February 23. The City Secretary did not receive candidate filings from anyone other than incumbents. Therefore, the Rockwall City Council will consider an ordinance cancelling the election due to no opposed candidates at its meeting on Monday, March 7. All three incumbents will take the Oath of Office at the regular city council meeting on Monday, May 16, to begin serving their additional term.
Posted On: 2/23/2016 Expired On: 2/23/2016
Rockwall, Texas – February 23, 2016 – WFAA-TV’s Channel 8 News has selected the City of Rockwall for their next live newscast this week, and Rockwall residents are invited to participate. The event is scheduled for this Thursday, February 25, from 4-5 p.m., during their regular broadcast. All residents are invited to come out and show the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex what makes Rockwall so great!
The live newscast is set to take place on the San Jacinto Plaza, in the heart of thriving Historic Downtown Rockwall. Residents planning to be a part of the day’s activities may want to arrive a little early. Parking is available around the downtown square, and at The Center at 108 East Washington Street, as well as at City Hall at 385 South Goliad Street.
The newscast will showcase all Rockwall has to offer, to give viewers a glimpse into the City’s dynamic quality of life. Among the highlights, Rockwall’s newly renovated Historic Downtown, the City’s 20 unique parks that foster an active lifestyle, and The Harbor District on the shores of beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard.
Posted On: 2/19/2016 Expired On: 2/19/2016
Rockwall, Texas – February 19, 2016 – Often the first person newcomers meet here, realtors are key to the City’s marketing efforts. That’s why for the second year in a row, the City of Rockwall hosted a realtor workshop, to educate, inform and empower area realtors with up-to-the minute information about the best the City has to offer. The response for the half-day event, held earlier this week, was overwhelmingly positive.
The seminar, which took place on Wednesday, February 17, took place at The Center, just south of Downtown Rockwall. In addition to area realtors, City employees, educators and local leaders were also in attendance. Rockwall partnered with North Texas realtor association, MetroTex, to help facilitate the event.
Presentations ranged from residential and commercial growth statistics, and Parks and Recreation programs, to economic development successes, and vital school district information. Among the day’s presenters were Rockwall Mayor, Jim Pruitt, Mayor Pro-Tem, Dennis Lewis, and Rockwall Independent School District Superintendent, Jeff Bailey. Attendees were polled after the workshop, and a vast majority gave their approval for the information presented.
Posted On: 2/16/2016 Expired On: 2/16/2016
Rockwall, Texas – February 16, – The City of Rockwall has recently refinanced several bond packages, which amounts to nearly $10 million in taxpayer savings. The debts that have been re-funded are from bonds issued in 2005, 2006 and 2008—all years when interest rates were much higher.
It is important to note that the City did not extend the term for any of the bonds; they will still be paid off as originally scheduled. The difference now is the vast savings in interest over the life of the bonds.
There was a total of $78 million in bonds that have been refinanced, at a decreased interest rate of 2.48 percent, down from an original rate of about 5 percent. That translates to an overall savings of 12.9 percent in interest costs, which adds up to $9.7 million in interest savings over the remaining life of the bonds.
Among the improvements included in those bond packages was the construction of John King Boulevard, which the City ultimately hopes to use to re-route State Highway 205 traffic away from Downtown Rockwall. In addition to the refinancing project, the City of Rockwall issued $5.6 million in new bonds for upcoming water and sewer projects.
Posted On: 2/11/2016 Expired On: 2/11/2016
(February 11, 2016 - Wylie, Texas) The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) has scheduled a chlorine maintenance that will be conducted on the NTMWD Wylie, Tawakoni, and Bonham water transmission systems and customers’ distribution systems for the 28-day period of March 7, 2016 through April 4, 2016. Annually, NTMWD performs chlorine maintenance prior to the warm months of the year.
Posted On: 2/5/2016 Expired On: 2/5/2016
Rockwall, Texas – February 5, 2016 – Turnout was big for a recent meeting between the City of Rockwall and area Homeowner’s Association presidents. Attendees included both City leaders and residents representing 13 of the City’s HOAs. The informational gathering was considered productive, with discussions ranging from the Parks and Recreation Department’s new healthy living awareness campaign, to water quality, and upcoming planning and zoning projects designed to support citizen awareness.
Posted On: 2/2/2016 Expired On: 2/2/2016
Rockwall, Texas – February 2, 2016 – The Rockwall City Council voted last night to deny support for an affordable multi-family housing development proposed by NuRock Companies. At the developer’s request, the item was placed on the agenda for consideration after a public hearing about the proposal last month. A handful of residents attended and spoke both for and against the plan during the Open Forum portion of Monday’s City Council meeting.
Dan Allgeier, Senior Vice President of NuRock Companies presented his company’s plan for the Residences at Rockwall, which was set to be an affordable housing development, subsidized, in part with tax credits. NuRock submitted the proposal as part of a state grant application for federal tax credit funding through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Since the Council declined to support the project, Allgeier has said that it will likely fail in the competitive grant application process.
Up for consideration was a vacant tract of land across from the Evergreen Senior Living facility located at 1325 South Goliad Street. The Residences at Rockwall included a total of 136 units, a majority of which would be rent controlled based on a resident’s income. During consideration, several City Council members mentioned that they had received an outpouring of opposition to the project, and that they felt compelled to vote accordingly.
Posted On: 2/2/2016 Expired On: 2/2/2016
Rockwall, Texas – February 2, 2016 – The City of Rockwall will hold an election on May 7, 2016, for three City Council seats, Places 2, 4 and 6. Rockwall City Council Member terms last two years. All three incumbents, including John Hohenshelt (Place 2), Dennis Lewis (Place 4), and Mike Townsend (Place 6), are eligible to run for an additional term in office, and have already filed the paperwork needed for reelection.
January 2016
Posted On: 1/28/2016 Expired On: 1/28/2016
Rockwall, Texas – January 28, 2016 – The Rockwall Fire Department responded to a structure fire at an area business in the evening of January 27. The call came in just after 6 p.m. last night, employees at a local car dealership reported a fire had started inside their paint and body shop.
Shortly after arriving on scene at the business, located at 2005 South Goliad Street, firefighters worked quickly, and successfully contained the blaze in the building’s paint booth. They fully extinguished the fire a short time later. The remainder of the building did suffer some smoke and water damage. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Posted On: 1/27/2016 Expired On: 1/27/2016
Rockwall, Texas – January 27, 2016 The Rockwall City Council has approved the formation of an Airport Advisory Board for the Ralph M. Hall / Rockwall Municipal Airport in January 2016. The Airport Advisory Board will consist of seven members, all of whom must be resident citizens and qualified voters of the city, in accordance with the City of Rockwall’s charter. Board members should be representative of the community, including citizens interested in airport-related business and/or aviation. full article...
Posted On: 1/21/2016 Expired On: 1/21/2016
Rockwall, Texas – January 21, 2016 – The City of Rockwall has added the new position of Public Information Officer / Marketing and has hired longtime resident, Lauri Dodd to fill the role. The City Council funded the position in this year’s budget to increase communications with its citizens and to further promote City activities, services and events.
“Although it still feels like the small town where I grew up, we are attracting a lot of attention for the quality of life Rockwall provides, the type of commercial and residential growth, and the outstanding entertainment opportunities families can enjoy here,” Dodd says. “I’m excited to be a part of promoting the City to its current and future residents as the growth continues.”
Dodd has more than 18 years of experience in marketing and communications. She previously held positions as a television reporter / anchor, radio host, and in corporate marketing, training and video production.
In addition to raising awareness about the increasing number of services and events offered, the City of Rockwall is dedicated to transparency and communication with its residents, and City leaders say this new role will help further address that effort. “We are all excited to have Lauri Dodd as a member of our team,” said Rick Crowley, Rockwall City Manager. “As our city continues to grow, this will help us achieve a new level of recognition for Rockwall as a sought-after destination for families and fun. Preserving those things that give Rockwall its unique character continues to be a high priority.”
Posted On: 1/21/2016 Expired On: 1/21/2016
Rockwall, Texas – January 21, 2016 – The Texas Department of Transportation has scheduled a road closure for midnight tonight in Rockwall. The shutdown will occur at Interstate-30 and FM-740 (Ridge Road) in both directions.
Weather permitting, crews will be working to string electrical cable across the highway, starting at 12 midnight for an estimated 30 minutes. TxDOT encourages motorists to use alternate routes during this time, as backups could occur.
Posted On: 1/20/2016 Expired On: 1/20/2016
Rockwall, Texas – January 20, 2016 – The Rockwall City Council held a work session last night before their regular meeting, where Dan Allgeier, Senior Vice President of NuRock Companies presented his company’s plan for affordable housing and tax credits. The Council listened and asked questions, but took no action on the proposal. full article...
Wylie, Texas - October 29, 2015 - Officials with the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) remind consumers that lawns in North Texas require very little to no supplemental watering during the fall and winter months, according to experts from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service (AgriLife) in Dallas.
"Usually in September of each year, lawns begin to go dormant," said Dotty Woodson, extension program specialist at AgriLife. "During the fall and into the winter, lawns receive enough water naturally and do not require the use of automatic sprinkler systems."
To maintain reservoir levels for next year’s water needs, NTMWD recommends consumers turn off irrigation systems and operate on manual mode and only as needed from November through March.
"Our Member Cities and Customers recognize the impact lawn irrigation has on our region’s total water consumption and reservoir levels,” said Tom Kula, Executive Director of NTMWD. “Lower water use in fall and winter helps save supplies for next year’s needs and allows us to perform critical maintenance on our systems while demands are lower.” Water My Yard website...
May 2015
Posted On: 5/1/2015 Expired On: 5/1/2015
Rockwall, Texas – May 1, 2015; The Rockwall Police Department is pleased to announce today that it has implemented Smart911 and it is now available to all citizens. The Smart 911 system allows citizens to create a Safety Profile for their household, which will display vital information to 911 Dispatchers and will assist first responders when responding to an emergency; including police, fire and emergency medical personnel. The profile provides critical information to emergency services, which otherwise might not be relayed to 911 Dispatchers by someone who is having a crisis and may be struggling to provide the most basic information. “Having this system in place allows first responders the opportunity to provide customers with a faster and more precise response to their emergency, based upon the profile they have built” said Sergeant Welch.
Smart911 is currently available in 36 states and more than 1000 municipalities across the country. It is a national service and your profile will travel with you across the country to any other locations that may have the system in place. Citizens are encouraged to create their Smart911 Safety Profile, which is secure and will only be available to the 9-1-1 system during times of an emergency call. The Smart911 Profile does not contain mandatory fields and citizens will only input information in the profile they feel is important or critical for emergency situations. This may include medical conditions or allergies, the bedroom location of a disabled person or photographs of a child with special needs that will provide real time information that will greatly assist police officers, firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). Smart 911 website...
A group of enthusiastic citizens are using social media to recruit a Trader Joe’s to come to Rockwall. If you would like to show your support, like and share their Facebook page at Rockwall Needs a Trader Joe’s Check out the free recipes and meal ideas at www.traderjoes.com/recipes
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
Why Should I help? 1. Prevent grease buildups from blocking sewer lines. 2. Stop sewer overflows into streets and storm drains 3. Save money spent on costly cleanups of sewage spills 4. Reduce the number of times you have to clean your grease trap (food services). 5. Protect the quality of our water. More (English)... | More (Spanish)...
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
The City of Rockwall was recently honored with the designation as one of the nation’s newest Preserve America Communities. Preserve America is a federal initiative to encourage and support community efforts to preserve and enjoy America’s priceless cultural and natural heritage.
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
VIDEO from the Rockwall EDC showcasing Rockwall. The "Epic" 8 minute version will be premiered at the North Texas Commercial Real Estate Expo (NTCAR) at the Sheraton Downtown Dallas in front of about 1,500-2,000 commercial brokers, etc. We have done this show for years and we are always asked where's Rockwall? Well...we are showing them! Please share Rockwall, It's just better here. watch the video..
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
The City of Rockwall received an excellent rating and ranked among the best in this area related to transparency in handling and responding to requests for public information. The City was one of 113 local agencies audited by The Dallas Morning News over a period of one year, a study in which the newspaper assessed how well state laws were followed regarding open access to information about how taxpayer money is spent and whether best practices were followed.
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
Charter Communications has informed the City of Rockwall that its channel lineup is continually evolving to meet the changing needs of its customers. Charter recently increased their total high-definition lineup, boosted the video on demand offering, and increased broadband speeds following a move to an All-Digital platform.
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
Rockwall County Emergency Management is currently utilizing a communications service that allows us to send important, valuable safety information directly to residents using the latest technology.
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
The City of Rockwall conducts regular tests on the first and third Wednesday of the month at 2:00 p.m. unless there is severe weather approaching or already in the DFW area. For more information, please contact:
Joey Boyd Assistant City Manager Phone: (972) 772-6408 Email
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expired On: 1/1/2015
Mayor Jim Pruitt has announced he will have open office hours each Monday from Noon to 4 P.M. at Rockwall City Hall, 385 S. Goliad Street (one block south of the Downtown Square).
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expires On: 12/31/2027
Open Forum is an opportunity for citizens to address the Council so that it can hear specific concerns or general comments. The Mayor and Council welcome any citizen wishing to address the City Council during the Open Forum providing that no public hearing is scheduled for the topic and comments be limited to (3) three minutes. The City Council does not typically respond to citizen concerns or take action during the meeting as a result of comments offered during Open Forum. If directed by Council, the appropriate action to address a citizen’s concerns will be initiated by a member of the City Manager’s staff during normal business hours.
Posted On: 1/1/2015 Expires On: 12/31/2025
Do your part to help Keep Rockwall’s Waterways Clean! Be on the lookout for pollutants that can damage our natural environment. If you see any illicit/illegal discharges into our Inlets, Storm Sewers, Lakes, Creeks and Streams please report by calling (972)-772-6791.
Types of Illicit/illegal discharges: Chlorinated backwash and draining associated with swimming pools, fertilizers, pesticides, lawn/landscape waste, household toxins, Industrial discharges, oil, anti-freeze, paint, cleaning fluids, sanitary sewer discharges, septic tank discharges, wash waters from commercial/industrial activities and washing machine discharges.
Current News Articles
Rockwall, Texas – August 9, 2019 – The City of Rockwall is accepting applications for the Youth Advisory Council. The deadline to apply is August 22, 2019. For additional information, go to: