The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council. A recent audit confirmed that Council travel expenses comply with City policy, with a full report available online. A temporary federal funding halt was lifted, but the City is assessing risks and advising nonprofits accordingly. Meanwhile, Rico, a two-year-old Pit Bull Terrier, is featured for adoption. Updates on recorded meetings confirm continued live-streaming and archiving, while recent incidents include a contained encampment fire. Infrastructure projects progress, including Bonnie Brae Street construction, Hartlee Field surveying for wastewater improvements, and a Fort Worth Drive median landscaping project funded by a TXDOT grant.
General Information
City Council Travel Expenses – The City Auditor’s Office conducted an annual review of Council travel expenses to ensure compliance with the City’s travel policy. The assessment focused on approval appropriateness, adequacy of supporting documentation, and timely submission of expense reports. The full analysis is available on the Internal Audit website.
Federal Funding Pause – A White House memo issued on January 27 temporarily halted federal financial assistance, but legal challenges led to its rescission. The City, which relies on federal funds from programs like CDBG, HOME, and Reconnecting Communities, has advised local nonprofits to continue operations. Staff are evaluating potential funding risks and preparing contingency plans. An ISR with findings and next steps will be released next Friday.
Mayor’s Pet Spotlight – Rico, a two-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier, is looking for a forever home. Neutered, house-trained, and full of energy, he is great with kids and enjoys playtime. While not suited for homes with cats, he thrives as the center of attention. His foster family will continue caring for him until he is adopted.
Council Member Requests
Recorded Meetings – Since 2019, the City has televised select Board and Commission meetings per Council direction. The City contracts with Swagit Productions to expand coverage, streaming 11 meetings live and making recordings available online. Denton Television (DTV) produces City Council, Planning and Zoning, Mobility, and Public Utilities Board meetings, while Swagit covers seven additional boards, including Economic Development, Disabilities, Ethics, and Historic Landmark Commission.
Encampment Fire – A fire occurred on January 27 near Mayhill and Interstate 35 East, burning approximately ¼ acre. Firefighters contained the blaze, and an investigation determined it was accidental. No injuries were reported.
Capital Projects near Denia Neighborhood – Mayor Pro Tem Meltzer and Council Member Beck met with Denia residents to address concerns about Bonnie Brae Street construction. Three phases are underway: Phase 3 (Roselawn to FM 1515) is expected to finish by September 2026; Phase 4 (I-35E to Scripture Street) will undergo full reconstruction after Phase 3; and Phase 5 (Scripture to University Drive) will receive an overlay in fall 2025. Truck traffic is permitted unless restricted by signage.
Hartlee Field Surveying – Surveying near Hartlee Field is for an interceptor sewer project supporting a new wastewater treatment facility on City-owned land. The project is part of the adopted Wastewater Master Plan.
Fort Worth Drive Median – A $400,000 TXDOT Green Ribbon Grant awarded in 2022 funds tree and landscaping installation in the Fort Worth Drive median from Roselawn Drive to Country Club Road. Irrigation has been installed, tree wells are drilled, and trees will be planted soon.
Upcoming Community Events
Now located at Events.
Upcoming Street Closures
| Street/Intersection | From | To | Closure Start Date | Closure End Date | Description | Closure Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Precision Dr | Airport Rd | UNT Library Annex | 04/01/25 | 07/31/25 | Reconstruction | Full Closure |