The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council. Recent highlights include the remembrance of former Council Member Don Duff, with flags at half-staff and a public memorial planned. The Small Business Bootcamp’s registration has been extended, offering sessions to aid local entrepreneurs. October’s DTV videos showcased community events, including festivals and an art exhibit. Additionally, a new pollinator garden was established at the landfill with volunteer support to foster local biodiversity. Council member inquiries addressed various issues, from road repair coordination with TxDOT, drainage and parking concerns, to upcoming programming at the Senior Center and data on local solar panel adoption.
General Information
Don Duff Remembrance – Former Denton City Council Member Don Duff, who served from 2017 to 2019, has recently passed away. In his memory, the Texas flag will be flown at half-staff across all City properties and facilities until Sunday, Nov. 3, returning to full-staff on Monday, Nov. 4. A celebration of his life will be held on Nov. 3 at 5:00 p.m. at Wildhorse Grill.
Small Business Bootcamp Deadline Extended – The City is hosting a three-part Small Business Bootcamp at the Denton Civic Center on Nov. 7, Nov. 14, and Nov. 16. Aimed at helping residents with business insights and tools, the sessions cover budgeting, profit and loss, marketing, and business planning, facilitated by SCORE mentors. Registration has been extended to Nov. 3 and is open to all Denton residents.
October DTV Video Highlights – DTV released several community-focused videos in October. Highlights include the Blocktober Party and Pumpkin Drop, the Hallo-Wing event at the airport, the Scary Chairy Orchard art exhibit at City Hall, and a feature on Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival with a behind-the-scenes look at the Coffin Races. All videos are available on DTV, social media, and the City’s YouTube channel.
Pollinator Garden – On Oct. 17, a 540-square-foot native pollinator garden was planted at the City of Denton landfill entrance. This project, supported by the ‘Bring Back the Monarchs to Texas’ grant and contributions from Pratt Recycling, involved over 40 volunteers, including local students and Girl Scouts. The garden aims to promote sustainability and wildlife habitat with 116 native Texas plants.
Council Member Requests
Pothole – On Oct. 30, a request was made by Council Member Holland to repair a pothole in the turning lane from Fort Worth Drive onto Country Club Road. After inspection, it was determined that this section is maintained by TxDOT, and a repair request has been submitted to them.
Carnegie Ridge Drainage – Council Member Holland also requested drainage information for Carnegie Ridge. This issue had previously been evaluated and reported on Dec. 9, 2022.
Hickory Street Parking – An inquiry was made regarding parking and driveway access for tenants in the 1800 block of Hickory Street. Staff conducted an investigation but could not identify a specific problem. They will continue monitoring the area and provide updates as needed.
Senior Center Programming – A resident inquired about dance events at the Senior Center. The center is currently reviewing its dance program to enhance participation. The dances are on hold temporarily and are expected to resume in 2025.
Solar Panel Inquiry – On Oct. 31, Mayor Hudspeth requested data on Denton Municipal Electric’s ratepayers and solar panel usage. As of Sep 1, 2024, there are 66,261 total customers, with 59,754 residential, 6,507 commercial, 1,258 residential solar users, 36 commercial solar users, and no multifamily solar accounts.
Upcoming Community Events
Now located at Events.
Upcoming Street Closures
| Street/Intersection | From | To | Closure Start Date | Closure End Date | Description | Closure Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clover Ln | Robinwood Ln | Glenwood Ln | 11/12/24 | 01/20/25 | Full Road Reconstruction | Full Closure |
| Luck Hole Dr | Pine Hills | Penina | 11/12/24 | 11/29/24 | Concrete Panel Repair | Lane Closure |
| Robinwood Ln | Emerson Ln | Live Oak St | 11/12/24 | 01/20/25 | Full Road Reconstruction | Full Closure |
| Wind River Ln (3100) | Unicorn Lake Blvd | I 35 Service Rd | 11/12/24 | 11/29/24 | Concrete Panel Repair | Lane Closure |