The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council. This week’s report highlights several initiatives, including an update on over 100 City Council priorities, the closure of the Development Service Center for staff training, and the successful installation of new traffic signals, saving the City $113,000. It also covers upcoming events like a Small Business Bootcamp and the introduction of warming stations for the winter season. Additionally, responses to Council Member requests included plans to clear vegetation from Cooper Creek, insights on battery storage incentives for rooftop solar, and progress on the City’s Climate Action Plan aimed at expanding solar capacity.
General Information
City Council Priorities Update – The City Manager’s Office has provided an update on Council priorities for the fourth quarter. Progress is being tracked via performance management software, with over 100 initiatives supporting Key Focus Areas. This information is available on the City’s public-facing dashboard.
Development Services Staff Development – The Development Service Center at 401 N Elm Street will be closed on October 30 for staff development. During the closure, permits and development project submissions can be made through the City’s online portal. Operations will resume on October 31.
Traffic Signal Installation at Teasley and Sundown – On October 23, the City completed the installation of traffic signals at Teasley Lane and Sundown Blvd. By managing the project internally, the City saved approximately $113,000 in labor costs and plans to use this approach for future installations.
Small Business Bootcamp – The City of Denton is hosting a free Small Business Bootcamp on November 7, 14, and 16 at the Denton Civic Center. The event aims to offer tools and insights for running a small business. Registration is open until October 30, with free childcare provided for registered participants.
Homeowner Repair Assistance – Six local homeowners received free door and window replacements through a partnership between the City and the North Texas Glass Association. The Homeowner Repair Program assists low- to moderate-income homeowners in need of minor repairs.
Downtown Ambassador Program – Starting January 2024, the City launched a two-year pilot program aimed at maintaining a clean, safe, and thriving downtown. The third-quarter progress report is available, and more details can be found on the City’s Ambassador Program webpage.
Inclement Weather Warming Stations – The City has prepared a list of warming stations for the 2024-25 winter season. These facilities offer heated spaces with public restrooms, water, and seating. More information, including locations and hours, is available on the City’s Warming Center webpage.
Council Member Requests
Cooper Creek Bed Maintenance – After a request from Council Member Beck on October 11, staff assessed the Cooper Creek bed and found that nearly 50% of the vegetation is native species. They plan to clear the creek bed at the end of the growth cycle in December or January.
Disaster Recovery Webinar – Council Member McGee inquired about potential recovery funds for Winter Storm Uri. After attending a webinar on October 15, staff determined that the City is not eligible for these funds but continues to seek other funding opportunities.
Battery Storage with Rooftop Solar – On October 22, Council Member Jester raised questions about using battery storage with rooftop solar systems. Staff clarified that battery storage systems with a capacity of 3 kWh or more are eligible for a 30% Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit for systems installed between December 31, 2021, and January 1, 2033.
Value of Solar – Council Member Holland provided feedback on the impact of solar energy on the Climate Action Plan. The City Council adopted the Climate Action Plan on August 6, 2024, which includes three primary goals and 16 actions, all tied to existing City Master Plans. Progress on these actions, including goals for rooftop solar, will be reported annually. The City currently has over 13 MW of installed rooftop solar capacity, with a goal of reaching 14 MW by 2025 and 192 MW by 2048. Solar installations are expected to contribute to a 0.4% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Tax credits for solar and battery installations are available through 2034.
Upcoming Community Events
Now located at Events.
Upcoming Street Closures
| Street/ Intersection | From | To | Closure Start Date | Closure End Date | Description | Closure Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfax Rd (2200) @ Longridge Dr | Intersection | 11/04/24 | 11/22/24 | ADA / Sidewalk Repair | Lane Closure | |
| Wind River Ln (3100) | Unicorn Lake Blvd | I 35 Service Rd | 11/12/24 | 11/29/24 | Concrete Panel Repair | Lane Closure |