IMPORTANT MESSAGE: Employees Affected by Virtual or Closed Schools

It’s August, a time when your family would typically prepare to start a new school year. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed everything. Your child’s school is closed or is offering virtual educational sessions. Now what?

To promote socia...

Inside Plano Spotlights a Bit of Normalcy in Light of COVID-19

In the August show, hosts Shannah Hayley and Steve Stoler focus on the City’s normal (business as usual) programs and projects. Now that City Manager Mark Israelson has presented the Recommended Budget 2020-21 and the Proposed Community Investme...

Understanding Wellness 101: a message from Michelle Gifford

This is my favorite time of year! Besides it being my birthday month, August is also National Wellness Month – bet you didn’t know that! I want to start by explaining what wellness is.

Most of you know our wellness program is called Con...

Glance over Local COVID-19 Details in Weekly Report

Plano’s latest COVID-19 Weekly Report gives additional information on trends over a specific time period. This review covers the following for July 24-31:

• Collin County hospital bed occupancy
• Collin County ICU usage
• Collin County ventilator treatme...

Join the Plano Town Hall Discussion on the City Budget

We’re holding a town hall meeting next week on Thursday, August 13 from 7-8 p.m. The topic is an always-popular one, the Budget. Lend an ear as Budget and Research Director Karen Rhodes-Whitley and City Manager Mark Israelson discuss the City&am...

Need Help Completing Your 2020 Census Form?

Visit a U.S. Census Bureau drive-thru event at the Plano Public Library location near you. Ask questions and get help completing your 2020 Census questionnaire.

On Sunday, August 9, Census takers begin visiting homes across the country to fill the gaps cau...

Jack Carter Pool is Fun and Certified for Safety

There’s not much time left to enjoy summer fun at the safest outdoor water park in Plano, Jack Carter Pool (JCP). In light of COVID-19 concerns, Parks & Recreations called on a globally-respected company to inspect the facility before openin...

Pledge to be Water-smart in National Mayors’ Challenge

Mayor Harry LaRosiliere is asking everyone take the Wyland Water Conservation Challenge in August – and beyond. Being waterwise is something Plano is used to doing, but there’s always more that can be done. This national Challenge is o...

Keep It Up, Team Plano...I SEE U SERVE!

As we enter our fifth month of working in our ever changing environment, the most vital element that has not changed is YOU! While we continue to be apart from each other and not engaging in activities like we have in the past, this hasn’t stopp...

Beware of Phishing: a Warning from TMRS

Criminals continue to develop new techniques to steal personal information. If you ever receive an unsolicited communication about our City’s plan or your Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) account by phone, email or regular mail from some...

Join the Airrosti Live Webinar: “Ask the Doc, Expert Q&A Sessions!”

Have you ever wondered what causes sciatica or disk-related issues? How does one get rid of plantar fasciitis? Are there alternatives to medication or surgery for health treatment?

Perhaps there are other questions you may have about a chronic pain issue. ...

Nickels, Dimes and Quarters…there’s a National Coin Shortage

The term “keep the change” takes on new meaning as the Federal Reserve announces a national coin shortage. The domino effect of the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the flow of coins through our economy.

As a result, all City vending mach...

Support Clear the Shelters Campaign and Gain a New Friend

The Plano Animal Shelter wants your help with pet adoptions during the 6th Annual Clear the Shelters nationwide campaign. The 2020 event runs Saturday, August 8 through Saturday, August 29.

Since 2019, more than 1,900 shelter/rescue organizations have part...

Join the DART Silver Line Virtual Community Meeting in August

Attend a virtual quarterly community meeting to review the progress of the DART Silver Line Regional Rail Project. DART and the design-build contractor will be on hand to outline the latest developments and answer your questions.The project provides rail ...

Say Bye-bye to Beatles Night Concert for 2020

Another casualty of COVID-19 is scraped from the entertainment lineup for this year. Plano Arts and Events announced the annual summer-time big draw is officially rescheduled to Saturday, May 22, 2021.

With the safety of patrons in mind, the Beatles Night ...

HR Director Speaks of Bringing Your Whole Self to Work

Are you a bit timid about the water being too cold when you go swimming? Do you you dip your toe in first to check the water or do you just hold your breath and jump in?

What about when you spend time with your friends or family? Do you enter those gatheri...

C4H Premium Incentive Program is on HOLD for this Year

As a reminder, the Connect4Health Premium Incentive Program has been suspended for the 2019-2020 year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What this MeansA preventive exam (annual physical, mammogram and colonoscopy or well-woman exam) plus a biometric screening ...

See Hardy Memorial at the Plano Police Northwest Substation

The Plano Police Department (PPD) Northwest Substation is our newest facility and also home to a memorial for fallen peace officer Weston Hardy. The 23,142 square foot building opened in mid-June with a virtual unveiling because of COVID-19 restrictions.

T...

SERVE-ing Safely

After working remotely for roughly three months, our state and city are continuing to reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic. The process to thoughtfully transition some employees back to the workplace has begun. If you are instructed to return to work by yo...

Spend Art-Time with Bubbles, Avocados and Trees

Here’s an idea sure to ward off the doldrums of isolation and spark your creative engine…and the best part, it’s free! Take part in live online art classes courtesy of Plano Arts and Events. 

The talented Amy Pagan (...

Inside Plano Examines Public Safety Efforts 5 Months into the COVID-19 Crisis

Listen to an overview of Plano’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic from the start and our plans for moving forward. This Inside Plano podcast features Deputy City Manager Greg Rushin and podcast cohost Shannah Hayley discussing emergency managem...

Mellow Out with Virtual Lunchtime Meditation Classes

Join Stress-Management Specialist Skila Ramirez for a calming 30-minute lunchtime meditation class. Skila is an international yoga educator, public speaker and YogaFit senior trainer specializing in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) therapy applicatio...

Learn to Avoid “Secret Shopper Scams” with Police Safety Minute

Criminals are really getting crafty these days, but Plano Officer Chris Bianez works to keep us alerted to these dangers. As a member of the crime prevention unit, he and the team devote their days uncovering and exposing fraud.

Have you received an email ...

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: July 16…Safety Tips

As we continue to get calls requesting testing site information, be aware deductibles, copays or coinsurance may apply. Doctor referrals or prior authorization may be required. Find sites on the Texas COVID-19 Test Collection Sites interactive map.&nb...

Watch the TMRS Pre-retirement Meeting Video

The Texas Municipal Retirement System hosted two pre-retirement webinars the first week of July. The presenter, Senior Regional Manager David Rodriguez, answered lots of your questions and gave us a few more questions to ponder.

A copy of David’s...

Bringing Your Whole Self to Work, a Message from Michelle Gifford

What does it mean to bring your whole self to work? Have you ever asked yourself that question? Bringing your whole self to work means showing up authentically, leading with humbleness. Keep in mind we’re all vulnerable, imperfect human beings d...

Add a Mobile Benefits App to Your Smart Phone

Get quick access to a variety of employee benefits using any smart device. Use this handy app to download and print everything from medical ID cards to benefit documents and forms.

Click on the flyer for more details. Contact Human Resources at 972-941-711...

Heat Stroke vs. Heat Exhaustion, Know the Difference?

North Texas and much of the country is in the midst of extreme temperatures and there are potential dangers associated with summertime heat. The first thing to know is heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable.

When thermometers linger in the tripl...

Self-Care: Always Important and Essential Now

“Right now, we are all experiencing some sort of turbulence in our lives!” says Senior Wellness Coordinator Michelle Gifford. She continues…

You may have heard me say it a million times already, but what’s the first...

Make Tracks as Play in the Park Goes Virtual

Plano Parks & Recreation’s annual Play in the Park program is going virtual starting Thursday, July 2 at 9 a.m. The weekly outing has been modified from outdoors to online due to COVID-19 restrictions. It’s a different format, same...

Apply Now for Housing & Living Assistance through Collin CARES

Grants are available for eligible Collin County residents impacted by COVID-19. The Collin CARES Assistance Program will provide up to $2,500 in monthly financial aid to each qualifying household.

Approved applicants receive funds to pay for housing, utili...

Flexible Spending Accounts and COVID-19 Elections Changes

Due to recent coronavirus-related life events, flexible spending account participants may be eligible to change their elections. For some whose life situations were altered, there are options to suspend, modify or add an election.

Dependent Care Flexible S...

COVID-19 Affects City Budget

Key information was shared during the March 25 Management Team meeting that impacts all of Team Plano. The 2020-21 Budget for the City of Plano will feel the COVID-19 pinch. However, Plano is still budgeted well enough to sustain the City’s Exce...

Take a Load Off and Enjoy Some Virtual Senior Leisure Fun

The August issue of the Sam Johnson Recreation Center e-Trendsetter newsletter is filled with great learning and laughter opportunities. Check out some of what’s being showcased online this month:

Avoid Common Estate Planning Mistakes Tu...

Need Help Completing Your 2020 Census Form?

Visit a U.S. Census Bureau drive-thru event at the Plano Public Library location near you. Ask questions and get help completing your 2020 Census questionnaire.

On Sunday, August 9, Census takers begin visiting homes across the country to fill the gaps cau...

Jack Carter Pool is Fun and Certified for Safety

There’s not much time left to enjoy summer fun at the safest outdoor water park in Plano, Jack Carter Pool (JCP). In light of COVID-19 concerns, Parks & Recreations called on a globally-respected company to inspect the facility before openin...

Join the Plano Town Hall Discussion on the City Budget

We’re holding a town hall meeting next week on Thursday, August 13 from 7-8 p.m. The topic is an always-popular one, the Budget. Lend an ear as Budget and Research Director Karen Rhodes-Whitley and City Manager Mark Israelson discuss the City&am...

Glance over Local COVID-19 Details in Weekly Report

Plano’s latest COVID-19 Weekly Report gives additional information on trends over a specific time period. This review covers the following for July 24-31:

• Collin County hospital bed occupancy
• Collin County ICU usage
• Collin County ventilator treatme...

Pledge to be Water-smart in National Mayors’ Challenge

Mayor Harry LaRosiliere is asking everyone take the Wyland Water Conservation Challenge in August – and beyond. Being waterwise is something Plano is used to doing, but there’s always more that can be done. This national Challenge is o...

Inside Plano Spotlights a Bit of Normalcy in Light of COVID-19

In the August show, hosts Shannah Hayley and Steve Stoler focus on the City’s normal (business as usual) programs and projects. Now that City Manager Mark Israelson has presented the Recommended Budget 2020-21 and the Proposed Community Investme...

Get the COVID-19 Update and See the Trends as of July 28

Every week since mid-March we’ve provided a daily case update on the City of Plano Facebook page. Beginning this week, on Mondays we’ll also provide a weekly lookback report. This report gives you additional information on trends over ...

Beware of Phishing: a Warning from TMRS

Criminals continue to develop new techniques to steal personal information. If you ever receive an unsolicited communication about our City’s plan or your Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) account by phone, email or regular mail from some...

Support Clear the Shelters Campaign and Gain a New Friend

The Plano Animal Shelter wants your help with pet adoptions during the 6th Annual Clear the Shelters nationwide campaign. The 2020 event runs Saturday, August 8 through Saturday, August 29.

Since 2019, more than 1,900 shelter/rescue organizations have part...

Join the DART Silver Line Virtual Community Meeting in August

Attend a virtual quarterly community meeting to review the progress of the DART Silver Line Regional Rail Project. DART and the design-build contractor will be on hand to outline the latest developments and answer your questions.The project provides rail ...

Schedule the Virtual Alzheimer’s Education Seminar this Month

Mark your calendar for this significant and interactive event on Saturday, August 22 as part of the 5th Annual Healthy Lives Matter event. In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association North Central Texas Chapter, experts will speak on topics ...

Serve on a City Board or Commission

Put your spare time to good use by volunteering for one of the City of Plano Boards and Commissions. The annual application process is underway. Examine each board and commission’s mission and purpose to find the service opportunity that fits yo...

Say Bye-bye to Beatles Night Concert for 2020

Another casualty of COVID-19 is scraped from the entertainment lineup for this year. Plano Arts and Events announced the annual summer-time big draw is officially rescheduled to Saturday, May 22, 2021.

With the safety of patrons in mind, the Beatles Night ...

C4H Premium Incentive Program is on HOLD for this Year

As a reminder, the Connect4Health Premium Incentive Program has been suspended for the 2019-2020 year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This applies to all pre-65 year olds, spouses and domestic partners on the City’s health plan.

What this MeansA pr...

Relax into a Virtual Lunchtime Meditation Class

Join Stress-Management Specialist Skila Ramirez for a calming 30-minute lunchtime meditation class. Skila is an international yoga educator, public speaker and YogaFit senior trainer specializing in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) therapy applicatio...

See Hardy Memorial at the Plano Police Northwest Substation

The Plano Police Department (PPD) Northwest Substation is our newest facility and also home to a memorial for fallen peace officer Weston Hardy. The 23,142 square foot building opened in mid-June with a virtual unveiling because of COVID-19 restrictions.

T...

Inside Plano Examines Public Safety Efforts 5 Months into the COVID-19 Crisis

Listen to an overview of Plano’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic from the start and our plans for moving forward. This Inside Plano podcast features Deputy City Manager Greg Rushin and podcast cohost Shannah Hayley discussing emergency managem...

Heat Stroke vs. Heat Exhaustion, Know the Difference?

North Texas and much of the country is in the midst of extreme temperatures and there are potential dangers associated with summertime heat. The first thing to know is heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable.

When thermometers linger in the tripl...

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: July 16…Safety Tips

As we continue to get calls requesting testing site information, be aware deductibles, copays or coinsurance may apply. Doctor referrals or prior authorization may be required. Find sites on the Texas COVID-19 Test Collection Sites interactive map.&nb...

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: as of July 2 at 4 p.m.

As of July 2, Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order requiring all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces. This order applies to counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases, with few exceptions. 

View ...

Apply Now for Housing & Living Assistance through Collin CARES

Grants are available for eligible Collin County residents impacted by COVID-19. The Collin CARES Assistance Program will provide up to $2,500 in monthly financial aid to each qualifying household.

Approved applicants receive funds to pay for housing, utili...

Will Medicare Cover the Cost of a Nursing Home Stay?

Unexpected medical emergencies could mean a prolonged recovery period in a nursing facility. If you are on Medicare, there are a number of questions to address.

When determining whether Medicare will cover nursing care, consider the following categories of...

Training & Development: Virtual Courses are Available

Human Resources offers a catalog of virtual training opportunities for all job types and levels. Refer questions to Senior Training Coordinators Tony Beasley or Debbie Speed at 972-941-7339 and 972-941-7217, respectively. 

As we transition to live...