The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council, detailing preparations for the upcoming solar eclipse with the City of Denton expecting an influx of one million visitors and advising residents on precautions to ensure safety and convenience during the event. Additionally, the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability is highlighted through the planting of 174 trees in various parks and areas. Recognition of the Solid Waste and Recycling Department for receiving the 2024 Jimmy Huff Safety Award underscores efforts towards workplace safety. Council Member Requests touch on addressing community concerns ranging from noise complaints and public right-of-way encroachments to homeless outreach and recycling initiatives, including a notable inquiry into the recycling of election signs and Styrofoam. Furthermore, discussions on potential infrastructure developments, nonprofit funding, and special event preparations like the Fry Street Fair traffic control plan reveal the Council’s active engagement in managing city affairs and responding to constituents’ needs.
General Information
Solar Eclipse Preparations – The City of Denton Emergency Management advises residents to prepare for an influx of one million visitors for the April 8 solar eclipse by fueling vehicles, grocery shopping in advance, avoiding I-35 from April 6 to 8, and anticipating potential cell service disruptions. Residents are encouraged to sign up for Alert Denton for emergency updates.
Annual Tree Planting – The city is planting 174 trees this spring in various locations, including Hickory Creek Rd, Joe Skiles Park, and South Lakes Park. Species planted include Autumn Blaze Maple, Chinquapin Oak, and several others, chosen for their suitability to the local environment.
Safety Award for Solid Waste and Recycling – The City of Denton’s Solid Waste and Recycling Department received the 2024 Jimmy Huff Safety Award from the Texas Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America (TxSWANA) for significant reductions in work-related injuries and illnesses.
Council Member Requests
Noise Complaints – Mayor Pro Tem Beck addressed a resident’s concern about overnight noise from a nearby event venue on March 26. City staff are in dialogue with the venue to find a resolution.
Car Lot Right of Way – On March 27, Mayor Hudspeth addressed a complaint about a used car lot encroaching on public right-of-way. The business owner has been advised on proper use of the space.
Homeless Outreach Team Patrols – Concerns about a homeless encampment along the Denton-Katy Trail were forwarded by Mayor Hudspeth on March 29. The Homeless Outreach Team is actively working to address the situation.
Mobility Plan Amendment Public Meetings – Mayor Pro Tem Beck raised resident concerns on March 29 about extending East Windsor Dr. Additional public discussions are planned.
Election Sign Recycling – Council Member Holland inquired on April 1 about recycling options for political yard signs. Metal stakes can be recycled, but the plastic signs need to be handled by specialized recycling businesses.
Styrofoam Recycling – On April 1, Council Member Holland requested updates on Styrofoam recycling. A grant for the necessary equipment has been received, with services expected to start by Q2 2025.
Nette Shultz Pest Control – Mayor Pro Tem Beck relayed concerns on April 2 about insect deaths in Nette Shultz Park. The park has not been sprayed, except for individual fire ant treatments.
Council Meeting Follow-Ups – On April 2, discussions in the City Council Meeting involved Council Member Watts highlighting conversations about a potential H.E.B. location in Denton and financial support for city homelessness efforts, with requests for further details from the City Manager.
Availability of Nonprofit Funds – Mayor Pro Tem Beck inquired on April 4 about funding for nonprofits. Community Services is the contact point for organizations seeking information on grants.
Fry Street Fair Traffic Control Plan – Council Member Meltzer requested the Traffic Control Plan for the April 27 Fry Street Fair, which was approved on March 26.
Upcoming Community Events
Now located at Events.
Upcoming Street Closures
| Street/Intersection | From | To | Closure Start Date | Closure End Date | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellaire Dr | Montclair Pl | McKinney St (East) | 04/22/24 | 05/03/24 | Valley Gutter Repair |
| Mayhill Rd | University Dr (US 380) | Prominence Pkwy | 04/15/24 | 05/31/24 | Installation of new driveway approaches |
| Nottingham Dr | Kings Row | Stratford Ln | 04/15/24 | 04/26/24 | Valley Gutter Repair |
| Thunderbird Dr | Crestmeadow St | Westview Trl | 04/29/24 | 05/24/24 | Curb and Gutter and Sidewalk Repair |