The Friday Staff Report to City Council provides weekly updates between staff and Council. This week’s highlights include recovery efforts from a September 5 storm that caused widespread power outages, storm debris, and damage across city infrastructure, with Denton Municipal Electric, Solid Waste, Parks, and the Airport all coordinating responses. The report also spotlights Bertha, an adoptable dog, and notes Jesse Davis’s election as Vice President of the Texas Municipal Power Agency Board. Council Member requests addressed matters such as construction delays and flooding on Congress Street, revised school zone hours at Reeves Elementary, no-parking criteria on Marietta Street, and safety improvements at the Teasley and Heights intersection following a fatal crash.
General Information
Storm Response – A severe storm on September 5 brought high winds and heavy rain to Denton, causing 35 power outages and affecting nearly 2,500 customers. Denton Municipal Electric restored the largest outage in under an hour, while a smaller outage required 13 hours due to transformer replacement. Solid Waste and Recycling crews reported a 242% increase in brush piles and extended their hours for cleanup. Parks staff cleared trees and assessed canopy damage, particularly in the north side parks, with plans for replanting. The airport recorded winds up to 75 mph, resulting in significant damage to private aircraft and a hangar, though city assets were largely unaffected. Streets, drainage, and water distribution crews managed downed trees and high-water callst.
Mayor’s Pet Spotlight – The featured adoptable pet is Bertha, a friendly and affectionate dog who enjoys walks, cuddles, and squeaky toys. She has completed heartworm treatment and displays good manners, though a meet-and-greet is recommended for compatibility with other dogs.
TMPA Board of Directors – Jesse Davis, one of Denton’s representatives, was elected Vice President of the Texas Municipal Power Agency Board on September 11. He will chair the audit and finance committee, serve a two-year term, and is positioned to potentially become Board President.
Council Member Requests
Congress Construction – Concerns about flooding and delays on Congress Street construction were addressed. The project between Carroll Boulevard and Fulton Street is scheduled for completion by October 10. Delays were due to shallow gas line relocations and heavy rains. Inlet protections will be managed before storms to reduce flooding risks.
Reeves Elementary School Zone – Following an audit, staff recommended adjusting school zone hours on Bonnie Brae Street to 7:00–9:00 AM and 2:30–5:00 PM. The change requires City Council approval and would align schedules for both Reeves Elementary and Denton High School.
No Parking Ordinance Process – Parking restrictions are enforced with signage and markings but also apply to specific distances from hydrants, crosswalks, and intersections. On narrow streets less than 28 feet wide, staff may restrict parking on one side. Wider streets require public input and City Council action before restrictions can be imposed.
Teasley and Heights Intersection – Following a fatal crash on August 31, residents raised safety concerns. The intersection of Teasley Lane and Heights Boulevard/Hunters Creek Road warrants a traffic signal per the Traffic Impact Analysis. The City is coordinating with TxDOT to expedite installation.