The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council. Applications are now open for the 2024 Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program, which previously awarded Denton music venues an average rebate of $40,000. Additionally, a memorial at City Hall East was unveiled to honor fallen Denton police officers. Council inquiries included the feasibility of using flashing green traffic lights, which was found non-compliant with regulations, and the Value of Solar, scheduled for discussion on October 22. Concerns about noise on the Square and pedestrian safety on McKinney Street are also being investigated.
General Information
Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program – Applications are now open for the 2024 Texas Music Incubator Rebate Program, which is a state-funded initiative benefiting Denton’s music scene. Local music venues have been notified of this opportunity. Last year, four Denton venues, including Dan’s Silverleaf, Steve’s Wine Bar, Andy’s, and Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios, were approved for the program, with an average rebate of about $40,000. Further details can be found at the Texas Music Office website.
Denton Police Headquarters Memorial – On October 16, the Denton Police Department unveiled a memorial at City Hall East to honor officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The memorial features information on the fallen officers and an honor chair created by the nonprofit Saving a Hero’s Place. Detective Rodney MooneyHam, who passed from COVID-19 complications, was honored with his family present. The memorial also includes portraits of Chief Olen Chester Pass and Chief Alman Glen Lanford, serving as a space to remember their sacrifices and service to the community.
Council Member Requests
Flashing Green Light – On October 11, Council Member Holland expressed interest in the feasibility of using flashing green lights to signal an impending change to yellow. After investigation, staff determined that this system, commonly used in Canada and Mexico, does not comply with federal or state traffic signal standards.
Value of Solar – On October 15, Council Member McGee inquired about the Value of Solar being added to an agenda. The proposed Electric Rate Ordinance, which includes updates to the Distributed Generation Rate, is scheduled for discussion at the October 22 Council meeting.
Noise Complaint on the Square – On October 11 and October 17, Mayor Hudspeth and Council Member Byrd raised concerns about noise from public address systems on the Square. Residents with noise complaints are advised to contact the non-emergency police line.
McKinney Street – On October 15, Council Member Holland inquired about adding a separation between pedestrian and auto traffic on McKinney Street. Staff is collecting information and conducting a study, with results to be shared in a future report.
Upcoming Community Events
Now located at Events.
Upcoming Street Closures
Street/Intersection | From | To | Closure Start Date | Closure End Date | Description | Closure Type |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Linden Dr W | Eastpark Blvd N | Bonnie Brae St | 10/28/24 | 11/22/24 | Underground utility installation | Full Closure |