Corporal Atal Labib of the Temple Terrace Police Department received the Thomas L. Lewis Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award for 2024. Notable for his involvement in the newly established traffic unit, Labib completed 1,111 traffic stops in 2024, resulting in 439 citations and 662 written warnings. His approach to law enforcement, which included a lack of complaints despite a high volume of stops, was commended by the mayor and council members. During his acceptance speech, Labib expressed gratitude for the support of his colleagues and city leaders, acknowledging their role in his professional success.

Similarly, Lieutenant Chris Sers was celebrated as the Firefighter of the Year, an honor underscoring his contributions to the department and community. His roles as union president and a member of the honor guard were noted, along with his reputation as an exemplary paramedic. The fire chief detailed the selection process, which involved insights from field personnel, highlighting Sers’ leadership and dedication to the department amid challenges over the past year. Sers, in his remarks, emphasized the camaraderie within the fire department, likening it to a family and expressing pride in their collective resilience.

The meeting also focused on the comprehensive plan update for Temple Terrace, last revised in 2016. Representatives from the planning commission underscored the necessity of modernizing the plan to address the city’s growth. The current plan consists of 12 sections, 28 goals, and 155 objectives across 270 pages, with projections indicating a 26% increase in population and a 22% rise in employment by 2050. The update process involves community engagement, with plans to involve residents and stakeholders to ensure the plan reflects the community’s aspirations and addresses key areas such as water, parks, and land use.

The planning commission announced a partnership with the University of South Florida’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning program to develop a public engagement strategy. Methods for public outreach include virtual and in-person meetings to accommodate diverse community members. The aim is to maintain open communication channels and incorporate feedback into the plan, with formal amendments anticipated by 2026. Council members discussed the implications of the plan, emphasizing the importance of aligning with land use documents and addressing population and employment growth trends.

Further discussions highlighted the need for coordination with neighboring jurisdictions, particularly Tampa, to ensure complementary development efforts. The Fowler Avenue corridor study and its regional importance were mentioned, with council members advocating for collaborative planning to maximize redevelopment opportunities. Concerns about the aesthetic impact of infrastructure projects were raised, with council members emphasizing the need for community input on visual enhancements to public spaces.

The meeting concluded with the recognition of Arbor Day, planned for April 22, 2025, where 100 Valencia orange trees will be distributed to residents as part of the centennial celebration. The council also approved appointments to advisory councils, including the reappointment of Brett Buffington and Austin Peterson to the Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory Council, reflecting ongoing community engagement efforts.