Welcome to UPdate. This mid-month publication provides residents with timely information about upcoming City projects, programs and events. You can sign up for things too.
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Does University Park have a leash law? |
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Yes. For the safety and enjoyment of others, dog owners can be issued a citation and fined if they let their dog run at large. This includes dogs that are unleashed while in City parks.
Are dogs permitted on school grounds?
Dogs are also not allowed on school grounds or other property of the Highland Park Independent School District, or any private preschool, kindergarten, primary or secondary school, without permission of an authorized school official. This includes being on any sidewalk, parkway or public property abutting the campus while school is in session. Again, a violation can result in a citation and fine.
Will a dog be impounded if it is seen running free in a neighborhood?
Yes, whether the dog is seen by an animal control officer or is found and held by someone, once the City is notified, an officer must take possession of the dog.
To report a dog running loose, or for more information about the City's leash law, please call 214-363-3000.
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Youth Advisory Commission application process ends March 31 |
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University Park high school students who are interested in community service and learning about City operations may want to apply for a slot on the City's Youth Advisory Commission.
While learning about local government operations, YAC members help promote the City's ongoing recycling program and other community initiatives. They also staff various annual events, including the summer fishing derby, the Park Cities Recycling Events and the Snider Plaza Tree Lighting. Commission members also act as an advisory group for the City on issues that could directly impact teenagers.
The application deadline is March 31. The City will begin interviewing applicants in April. Interviews will following proper social distancing protocols, and applicants will have the option to complete their interview virtually. To be eligible for consideration for this 20-plus member group, students must reside in University Park. They must also be in the 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th grade at the start of the 2021-22 academic year.
Each Commission member will be expected to attend all group meetings and actively participate in all designated events. Community service hour credits are one of the many benefits of serving on the Commission.
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Park Cities Recycling Event scheduled for April 17 |
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The next Park Cities recycling event will take place in the SMU parking lot on the south side of Burleson Park on Saturday, April 17 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Here is another chance to clear out your garage, attic and closets of old financial and medical documents, outdated or unused electronics and even clothing and furniture. Stay tuned for more event details!
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Crews restoring pavement following water main breaks |
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Public Works crews are still working hard in the aftermath of last month's winter storm. Crews are focused on restoring pavement that was damaged when water main breaks forced emergency repairs. As you can see, pavement work will be needed throughout the City. So far, 19 locations have been repaved and restoration is in progress at 10 additional sites. Each repair is completed within seven days of the start date. In total, there were 56 water main breaks during the winter storm event, which far surpassed 2020's 12-month total of 35. For the next few weeks, as the pavement work continues, you will likely spot Public Works personnel working at locations indicted in red. |
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Socially distanced fishing in Caruth Park pond begins April 3 |
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The Caruth Park pond will be stocked with 400 pounds of catfish for fishing starting April 3 and continuing through May 29. Please practice social distancing and catch and release practices.
Catfish prefer strong smelling baits. Try using nightcrawlers, chicken livers, shrimp, stinkbait or cut hot dogs. For more information check out Texas Parks & Wildlife's Neighborhood Fishing! Fishing license is required for anyone over 16 years old.
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Backup power sources and City permits |
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If the loss of household electricity during the recent winter storm has you thinking about backup power sources, here are some things to keep in mind before you make a purchase:
Lithium powered generators
If you are looking at a small portable generator that uses a lithium battery, comes with a built-in solar panel, uses a vehicle outlet, or uses a cord that plugs into electrical equipment, make sure that you follow all instructions from the manufacturer.
Motor Generators
If you are considering a fixed alternative energy source that uses a gas-powered motor, prior to installation, you must work with the City to get all necessary building, electrical, and plumbing permits.
Primary considerations for motor generators:
- Location of the components on the property
- Type of fuel for the primary driver/engine
- Fuel supply/capacity/quantity
- Exhaust direction and noise level
- Inter-Connection to the premises wiring system
If you intend to install the fixed alternate energy source in a side yard, you must make sure that you meet all City setback and yard-depth standards and that you don’t exceed the total number of mechanical equipment units allowed there. If you are considering a unit that is fueled by natural gas, you need to coordinate your efforts with Atmos Energy before submitting your permit application to the City.
Noise considerations must also factor into the decision on where to locate your fixed energy source. The unit cannot exceed a noise reading of 65dB at the property line. This limitation may require locating the unit on the interior of your property and not in a side yard.
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Change your clocks, change your batteries |
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Yesterday as Daylight Saving Time came to an end, and the clock sprung forward, did you change the batteries on your household smoke alarms? If not, here is your reminder.
For those needing assistance, especially the elderly and individuals with disabilities, UPFD personnel will test home smoke alarms. If necessary, the department will also provide and install smoke alarms for free. To arrange a visit please call the department’s administrative secretary at 214-987-5380.
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Upcoming City Meetings & Events |
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STAY CONNECTED TO THE CITY ON SOCIAL MEDIA |
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