North Richland Hills Communications Training Exercise - January 7, 2026

On January 7, 2026, at 9:00 AM, the city of North Richland Hills held a communications training exercise. The session consisted of two scripted role-playing scenarios intended to test and train city staff on public messaging and field interactions. The first scenario was a simulated budget address, and the second was a simulated police traffic stop involving an electric bicycle (e-bike).

Public Comments & Testimony

• Citizen in E-Bike Roleplay: A citizen acting as an e-bike rider interacted with Officer Cortez during the traffic stop scenario. The citizen stated they were unfamiliar with the specific city ordinances regarding e-bike speed limits (12 mph) and expressed appreciation for the officer's educational explanation of the Texas Transportation Code's e-bike classifications and traffic rules.

Discussion Items

• Simulated Budget Speech: A staff member delivered a speech highlighting the city's financial record. The speech stated that over the previous ten years, North Richland Hills decreased its property tax rate by 12 cents to offset rising home values. It noted that in 2022, the city council increased the homestead exemption to the maximum of 20%. The speech also highlighted that nearly 30% of residents benefit from a senior tax freeze established 20 years ago. Additionally, it reported that in 2020, 78% of voters approved $49 million in street improvements, and the tax rate was lowered a further seven cents since that approval. The speaker framed these actions as evidence of "smart budgeting" and doing "the right thing" for taxpayers.
• E-Bike Enforcement Simulation: Officer Cortez conducted a traffic stop on a citizen for speeding (20 mph in a 12 mph zone) on a city trail. The officer reviewed the three classes of e-bikes recognized by the Texas Transportation Code, their speed caps, and functional requirements. The officer explained that e-bikes without fully operational pedals are legally considered motorcycles and are prohibited from bike paths, bike lanes, and sidewalks. The officer also advised the citizen on proper road placement and safety equipment for night riding.

Key Outcomes

• Training Exercise Acknowledged: At the conclusion of the first segment, the speaker revealed the budget address was a test of the team's communications skills, stating, "This was just a test. And you all passed."
• No Official Actions Taken: As this was an internal training exercise, no formal city business was conducted, no votes were taken, and no policies were adopted or amended during this meeting.