The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council. This week’s report highlights the promotion of animal adoption through Taloula’s spotlight feature, regulatory enforcement and permit issues at a Mark Twain Lane property, confirmation of a second West Nile Virus case prompting heightened mosquito-control measures, the impact of the federal government shutdown on SNAP recipients, an airport-led community food drive, and multiple awards recognizing the City’s excellence in video production and downtown programming. It also includes clarifications on yard-waste regulations and an update on the Chestnut Tree storefront renovation, along with upcoming street closures affecting travel across Denton.
General Information
Mayor’s Pet Spotlight – Taloula – Taloula is a calm and affectionate senior dog seeking adoption. At nine years old, she enjoys gentle outdoor play and has minor age-related medical needs that do not affect her quality of life. She would thrive in a quiet, loving home where she can enjoy her remaining years in comfort.
Mark Twain Lane – A complaint regarding remodeling for a potential hostel led staff to discover unpermitted interior work at the property, resulting in a Stop Work Order. Staff met with the owner to clarify intended use, issued a use determination, and are awaiting confirmation before the permit review continues.
West Nile Virus Update – The City confirmed a second human case of West Nile Virus, elevating risk to Level 5 and triggering enhanced monitoring, breeding-site treatment, and mosquito testing. Residents are urged to eliminate standing water, avoid peak mosquito hours, dress protectively, and use repellent. Bti briquettes are available to residents, and high-risk individuals are advised to stay vigilant for symptoms.
Federal Government Shutdown Impact – More than 3,000 residents temporarily lost access to SNAP benefits due to the shutdown. Local food pantries and a United Way relief fund are available to assist affected households. Eligible residents may continue applying for SNAP, with benefits expected to be distributed retroactively once operations resume.
Airport Food Drive – The Denton Enterprise Airport and Sheltair Aviation launched a fall food drive from Nov. 7–21 to support local families. Donations of non-perishable items can be dropped off at designated airport facilities, and City departments are encouraged to participate.
Video Awards – The City and DTV received five statewide awards for excellence in video programming, including first-place honors for storytelling and social media. The awards recognize Denton’s high-quality, engaging public media content available on DTV, social platforms, and YouTube.
Texas Downtown President’s Award – The 31 Days of Halloween program earned a statewide award recognizing outstanding downtown promotion, highlighting the collaboration between local businesses, nonprofits, and City staff.
Council Member Requests
Yard Waste – The City clarified that yard waste may not be blown into streets or rights-of-way under Chapter 17 of the Code of Ordinances. Yard waste must be placed in kraft paper bags or City-issued carts. Brush under four cubic yards, raw produce scraps, and coffee grounds may also be collected through the yard-waste program.
Chestnut Tree Storefront – Following an inquiry about the business’s storefront renovation, staff contacted the owner and will collaborate on design review to ensure consistency with established standards as the project proceeds.
Street Closure Report: Upcoming Closures
| Street/Intersection | From | To | Closure Start Date | Closure End Date | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audra Ln | Lee Dr | At Intersection | 11/24/25 | 12/12/25 | Sidewalk / ADA Repair |
| Audra Ln | Paisley St | At Intersection | 12/15/25 | 01/09/26 | Sidewalk / ADA Repair |
| Kirby Dr (3805) | Bissonet Dr | San Felipe Dr | 11/17/25 | 12/19/25 | Concrete Panel Repair |
| Margie St | Ave A | McCormick St | 11/17/25 | 12/15/25 | Installing sewer |