From the Feburary 21st, “Friday Staff Reports to City Council” Government

The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council. This week’s report includes details on prescribed burns at Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center and North Lakes Park to improve habitat conditions, a new utility bill design aimed at better accessibility, and a highlight on Genesis, a shelter dog in need of adoption. It also clarifies that City facilities remain open on Presidents’ Day. Additionally, staff responded to inquiries regarding homelessness outreach and shelter services, cricket field access, stormwater drainage maintenance, and upcoming discussions on water and wastewater impact fees.

General Information

Notice of Prescribed Burns – The Denton Fire Department will conduct prescribed burns at Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center on Feb. 24 and North Lakes Park on Feb. 25. Each burn will cover 10 acres to enhance habitat diversity, suppress non-native grasses, improve soil nutrients, promote wildflower pollinators, and increase soil moisture filtration. The burns will be managed by the DFD wildfire team in coordination with City Parks, CCNHC, and Animal Services. Weather conditions will be considered before proceeding, and updates will be shared on social media and Nextdoor.

Mayor’s Pet Spotlight – Genesis, a nearly four-year-old American Pit Bull Terrier, is seeking a permanent home. She is social, energetic, and food-motivated, making training enjoyable. Due to her dominant nature with other dogs, she would thrive in a pet-free home or with experienced handlers. Long-term shelter living has led to kennel reactivity, so a stable home environment would greatly benefit her well-being. Denton Animal Services encourages adoption or fostering to provide her with the care she needs.

New Utility Bill Design – Customer Service will introduce a redesigned utility bill in the coming weeks to improve clarity and accessibility. The new format will feature a summary of account activity on the front and an itemized breakdown by utility on the back. QR codes will be included for quick access to services such as online bill payment, recurring donations, and account updates. Announcements about the launch will be made on social media and the Customer Service website.

City Holiday Schedule – A resident inquired about City facility closures on Presidents’ Day. The City of Denton observes 11 holidays, mostly aligning with federal holidays except for Presidents’ Day and Columbus Day, when facilities remain open.

Council Member Requests

Outreach and Shelter Services – The City is reviewing its outreach and shelter services for individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly during cold weather. This includes evaluating current policies and procedures. A Council work session to discuss findings is scheduled for April 15.

Cricket Field Access – A community member inquired about the City’s cricket field schedule, and staff provided information on field availability and the scheduling process.

Stormwater Drainage – Residents raised concerns about the maintenance of the stormwater drainage basin at Hercules Street and Sherman Drive. The basin is owned and maintained by the Homeowners Association (HOA), with the City ensuring compliance with maintenance requirements. It is designed to remain dry until rain occurs, then gradually release water to reduce downstream impact.

Water and Wastewater Impact Fees – A public hearing on water and wastewater impact fees is tentatively set for March 25, 2025, with final consideration on April 1. Additional water and wastewater fees will be addressed in August during the Budget Workshop.

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