memorandum date: to: i

OUR CORE VALUES
MEMORANDUM
FROM: Sara Hensley, Interim City Manager
SUBJECT: Staff Report
I. Council Schedule
A. Meetings
1. Public Utilities Board on Monday, April 12, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. via
video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
2. Parks, Recreation and Beautification Board on Monday, April 12, 2021 at
3:00 p.m. via video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
3. Special Called - Work Session of the City Council on Tuesday, April 13, 2021
at 3:00 p.m. via video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
4. Economic Development Partnership Board on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at
11:00 a.m. via video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
5. Development Code Review Committee on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at
12:30 p.m. via video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
6. Cancelled - Agenda Committee Meeting Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at 2:30
p.m. in the City Manager’s Conference Room.
7. Cancelled - Public Art Committee on Thursday, April 15, 2021 at 4:00 p.m.
in the City Council Work Session Room.
8. Community Development Advisory Committee on Friday, April 16, 2021 at
9:00 a.m. via video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
9. Cancelled - Human Services Advisory Committee on Friday, April 16, 2021
at 12:00 p.m. via video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
10. Special Called - Public Art Committee on Friday, April 16, 2021 at 4:00 p.m.
via video/teleconference – City Council Work Session Room.
II. General Information & Status Update
A. Pending Council Requests Work Session Topics – Pursuant to Ordinance No. 19-
2026, the following items will be discussed during the April 13 City Council work
session. Each week, the topics included on the next week’s agenda will be in the Friday
Report. Staff contact: Stuart Birdseye, City Manager’s Office
1. Put forward for council consideration of an ordinance that no one on a
ballot is eligible to be added to a board or commission.
a. Requestor: Council Member Ryan
b. Council Member Request: “I would like to put forward for council
consideration of an ordinance that no one on a ballot is eligible to be added
to a board or commission. Reappointment is not a part of this, if you currently
serve you can continue to serve. “Anyone running for local, county, state or
federal office cannot be initially appointed to a city board or commission
between the date when they file and the final results of the election”
c. Staff Information: Currently, in order for a person to be eligible to be
appointed to a Board or Commission, that person must generally be 1) a
qualified voter of the City of Denton (as a result, be a Denton resident), and
2) have no obligations owed to the City of Denton, as outlined in Exhibit 3
and affirmed in the Boards and Commissions Affirmation of Qualifications
Exhibit 4. If Council would like to update the requirements with Council
Member Ryan’s request, staff will present a draft resolution for Council
Consideration at a future City Council Meeting.
2. A work session to discuss directing to the Public Art Committee to establish
a city-led public-private partnership which would fund and commission a
signature public art installation at Rayzor Ranch Park.
a. Requestor: Mayor Pro Tem Davis
b. Council Member Request: “I am requesting a work session to discuss
directing to the Public Art Committee to establish a city-led public-private
partnership which would fund and commission a signature public art
installation at Rayzor Ranch Park, more specifically a fountain
commemorating the history of the land and Rayzor family while also
providing an opportunity for free water play. Below is an example photo of
Rotary Fountain in Spokane, WA”
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c. Staff Information: As discussed during Individual Consideration Item 21-
497 during the April 6, 2021 City Council meeting, there is space available
at Rayzor Ranch Park for a public art installation and/or spray ground. If
Council would like to move forward with this proposal, staff will coordinate
with the Public Art Committee to develop potential designs and anticipated
budget to begin identifying potential funding sources.
B. Governor Abbott Executive Order GA-35 – On April 5, 2021, Governor Greg Abbott
issued Executive Order GA-35 (attached). The order generally states that no
governmental entity can compel a person to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and that
state agencies and political subdivisions, such as cities and counties, cannot make
COVID-19 vaccination a condition of the provision of services or access to any place.
These requirements also extend to government and private entities that receive public
funds from any source. The order does provide an exception for residents of nursing
homes and similar facilities. As the City of Denton does not make vaccination a
condition of services or programs, this order will not impact city operations. Staff
contact: Ryan Adams, Customer Service and Public Affairs
C. Proposed Concrete Plant – On April 6, City staff received the attached TCEQ public
hearing notice from members of the community. This notice was never provided to
the City since the proposed location of the plant is outside the City’s ETJ. However,
after further researching this matter, staff found that in 2002 a separate plant was
proposed in this area and while the City filed opposition documents for that plant, a
permit was ultimately approved, and the plant has been operational since that time.
The current proposed plant would be located next to the existing plant. Based on prior
City action, staff submitted the attached letter of opposition on April 7 to this proposed
plant and placed a resolution of opposition on the City Council’s agenda for April 13
for consideration and approval. Staff contact: Deborah Viera, Environmental Services
D. United Way COVID-19 Utility Assistance – On March 2, Denton County approved
local use of COVID relief funds which were authorized by the federal government in
late December 2020 after the US Treasury department provided clarity on legal
funding use in late February.
After awaiting federal guidance on fund use, United Way of Denton County (UWDC)
recently reopened their assistance channels for customers who require utility
assistance due to the effects of the pandemic. As many residents were waiting for
greatly needed assistance, UWDC has been working through a very high volume of
assistance requests but are now ready to begin receiving direct referrals from
Customer Service on behalf of our customers, effective Friday, April 9.
Beginning on this date, any customer seeking financial assistance should contact
Customer Service at (940) 349-8700. Customer Service representatives will then
gather basic intake information and provide it to the appropriate agency, UWDC or
Interfaith Ministries, depending on whether the need is COVID-19 related. This
proactive approach will ensure customers do not have the added step of contacting
these organizations themselves and ensure the account will not be interrupted while
the case is being processed.
On April 7, the US Treasury released further clarification was released which restricts
the utility assistance usage of newly allocated federal funding for renters and 3
specifically excludes homeowners from receipt of COVID aid for utility bills.
Customer Service, UWDC and Interfaith Ministries have coordinated to ensure
homeowners experiencing COVID related income loss are referred to Interfaith
Ministries where they can still receive assistance through the normal assistance
channel.
While Interfaith ministries typically submits payment for qualifying customers within
2 weeks of receiving documentation, UWDC will have a short term extended timeline
due to the high demand. Customers will not be interrupted during this extended
timeline. Staff will continue to work with UWDC to create the most clear and efficient
process possible for customers. Staff contact: Christa Foster, Customer Service and
Public Affairs
E. Sate Legislative Action Update – As bills begin to move through committees, City
staff and legislative consultants have been actively involved in upholding Council’s
adopted 2021 legislative program. Letters addressed from the Mayor (attached) were
submitted in opposition to:
• SB 10 – regarding the banning taxpayer-funded legislative consultants; and
• Several similar law enforcement defunding bills being heard before the House
Ways and Means Committee.
Staff also contacted Rep. Stucky’s office and the City’s legislative consultants
regarding many priority bills going before their respective committees over the course
of the week. HB 2548 which would prohibit a municipality from collecting an
inspection fee related to the inspection of a building during a declared state or local
disaster. As originally filed, this bill would, in disasters that have no impact to
building safety, provide an unnecessary benefit to those property owners seeking
inspections and adversely impact taxpayers who derive no benefit from the
inspections. Consultants engaged the bill’s author on amenable language for an
amendment to only apply to those disasters where issues of building safety and
building damage. Following, a committee substitute was put forward which made the
bill less burdensome on cities. Staff will continue to take action on bills that impact
Denton in alignment with Council’s adopted legislative program. Staff contact: Rachel
Balthrop Mendoza, City Manager’s Office
F. Library Reopening for Drop-in Access and Adapted Services – Starting May 1, all
three Denton Public Library branches will be open for drop-in access and adapted
services. The library is also pleased to announce that Library Summer Classes &
Events will feature small audience, in-person programs as well as virtual programs.
North Branch contactless drive-up hold pickup will continue to remain available.
Curbside hold pickup at Emily Fowler Central Library and South Branch will cease
on May 1, 2021. Some areas and services may remain unavailable at this time to
maintain social distancing and a safe library environment for library patrons.
May 1 library drop-in access and adapted services will include:
• 30-minute Grab & Go browsing and checkout
• Access to limited number of library computers on a first come, first served
basis for up to two 1-hour sessions per day OR access to limited laptop
workstation tables for internet access for one 2-hour session on a first-come,
first-served basis per day. (Daily visits by customers using public computers
or laptop stations should not exceed 2.5 hours.) 4
• Interlibrary loan services
• Limited in-person quick answer reference and computer assistance with social
distancing
• 2020 Summer Reading Challenge prize book selection and pick up
Temporary library hours of operation will also be expanded at all three library locations
starting May 1, 2021. Expanded temporary hours:
• Emily Fowler Central Library
• Thursday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Tuesday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Wednesday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Staff contact: Jennifer Bekker, Library
G. Comprehensive Plan Community Workshop – The second community meeting for the
Comprehensive Plan Update Community Workshop #1 was held during the evening
on Monday, April 6. The workshop was scheduled immediately in response to a
situation where participants were left out of the first workshop. Following an email
blast that was sent out announcing a second date, staff receive 80 registered
participants. Similar to the first workshop, participants were introduced to the project
team, received an explanation of what is a Comprehensive Plan, were provided with
information about the project and answered polling questions throughout. When
available, recordings of the workshops will be posted on the City’s dedicated website
at www.cityofdenton.com/dentonplan. The community is encouraged to visit the
website to keep up to date on upcoming events, download documents, view past
presentations, and provide input through various interactive exercises. Staff contact:
Scott McDonald, Development Services
H. Priority Bill Status Report – While the City of Denton is tracking hundreds of bills
filed during the 87th Session of the Texas Legislature that could potentially impact the
City of Denton, staff are more closely monitoring the status and progress of a subset
of these bills in a priority tracking list. These priority bills have a high impact to the
City of Denton and/or are progressing rapidly through the legislature toward full
passage. A list of our priority bills that are being monitored is attached. Staff contact:
Rachel Balthrop Mendoza, City Manager’s Office
I. April/May Resident Update - The April/May issue of the Resident Update newsletter
(attached) was delivered to Denton homes this week. This issue features information
about Parks and Recreation’s summer hiring opportunities, COVID-19 vaccine
resources, Denton Plan 2040, the May 1 City Council election, tips for preventing
recycling contamination, and more. Staff contact: Justin Harmon, Customer Service
and Public Affairs
J. Drinking Water Quality Report – The 2020 Water Quality Report (attached) will be
mailed out to utilities customers in May, and contains information about 22 analytes,
all reported to be below regulatory maximum levels. No drinking water monitoring
violations were issued for 2020. The Report will also be available online in English
and Spanish. Staff contact: Tony Puente, Utilities
K. Update on Customer Service Call Volumes – Customer Service continues to
experience very high call volumes from customers who have utility bill inquiries or
need to take action regarding their accounts. This volume is roughly 140% higher than
it was in 2019 and as high or higher than many of our peak call periods in 2020. In
response to these call volumes and the general growth that has and will occur within
the City, Customer Service recently added 7 Customer Service Representatives,
bringing out total from 18 to 25. These new hires are currently training – a process
which presents challenges as seasoned customer service representatives provide one-
on-one guidance to ensure they are ready to take calls alone and are capable of
providing accurate information. This process will conclude over the next two weeks,
at which point the new hires will work independently and we anticipate call wait times
being reduced significantly. Staff will monitor call volumes over the coming months
to evaluate the impact of the additional staff members. Customers who call the City
are greeted with an automated message acknowledging the above average wait times
and providing options to reduce the wait. Staff contact: Ryan Adams, Customer
Service and Public Affairs
L. Animal Services performs FHO Surgery – On April 7, Animal Services Veterinarian
staff performed their first Fermoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery on a shelter dog
named Mermaid. An FHO, is a surgical procedure that aims to restore pain-free
mobility to a diseased or damaged hip, by removing the head and neck of the femur.
Typically, this type of surgery is referred out to a contracted veterinarian clinic and
can cost up to $6000 to perform. Animal Services would like to say a special thanks
to Denton Animal Support Foundation (DASF) for generously donating the funds to
purchase all the necessary medical tools to successfully perform the surgery. We are
happy to report that Mermaid’s surgery was successful, and she is now back home
with her foster parents recovering. Staff contact: Randi Weinberg, Animal Services
M. Preschool Update – Over the last few years, many challenges faced the preschools at
Denia Rec Center, MLK Jr. Rec Center, and North Lakes Rec Center, including low
enrollment, staffing, increased cost, and increased preschool providers. Staff struggled
to recruit and maintain preschool teachers; the full-time staff was often used for
extended periods while looking for teachers. North Lakes preschool planned to close
at the end of the 2019-2020 school year due to the new tennis center construction at
the North Lakes Annex. During the pandemic, Denia and MLK Jr. Rec Center
evaluated their preschool and decided to close permanently. The preschools' closing
allows staff to focus on new programs and additional space for facility rentals and
programs. Parks and Recreation will continue to offer the preschool camp during the
summer. Staff contact: Caroline Seward, Parks and Recreation
N. Summer Camps – Registration for Parks and Recreation summer camps opened on
April 5. All-day summer camps are Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is a
Preschool Camp (ages 3-5), Teen Camp (ages 11-15), and then many options for ages
5-11. The weekly fee includes a T-shirt, field trips, crafts, swimming, and the
occasional lunch. The Teen Camp will go on daily field trips, while the other camps
go on weekly field trips.
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PARD is also offering many specialty and sports camps for all ages, like the Clear
Creek Camp. This camp is held at Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center and lets kids
learn outside, get a little dirty, but still go on fun field trips and go swimming. This is
also the first year PARD is offering a Before and After Camp Care to help supplement
the specialty camps' drop-off and pick-up times.
COVID safety precautions will be in place at the camps, including smaller camp sizes,
social distancing, frequent handwashing, and sanitation of touchpoints. Counselors
will wear masks at all times, campers must wear masks when they cannot social
distance.
To register for summer camps, visit www.dentonparks.com. Staff contact: Caroline
Seward, Parks and Recreation
O. Great American Cleanup Results – During March, Keep Denton Beautiful (KDB)
hosted Denton's 33rd annual Great American Cleanup (GAC), a community-wide
litter cleanup effort. A total of 967 volunteers registered. Volunteers gathered nearly
five tons of litter (519 bags of trash and 147.25 bags of recycling) from 91 locations
around Denton, including roadways, parks, trails, and school campuses. Volunteer
participants contributed a collective 1,273.75 hours of volunteer time, worth an
estimated $34,646.
KDB held photo contests for a public vote on the KDB Facebook page. The following
groups received awards for their volunteer efforts:
• Most Bags Collected: DATCU East Branch (21 bags)
• Best Photo: Adhikari Family
• Oddest Item Found: TI-84 Plus graphic calculator – Girl Scout Troop 7849
GAC is part of a nationwide effort with Keep America Beautiful, and Denton is one
of more than 20,000 communities that participate each spring. Sites are selected
citywide and include roadways, streams and shorelines, and public areas such as parks.
KDB tracks litter rates in the community throughout the year to help target areas most
in need of cleanup. Community members can participate in these tracking efforts or
make recommendations for future cleanup sites by emailing carly.weld@cityofdenton
or calling (940) 349-8737.
This year's Great American Cleanup was made possible through community
contributions and sponsorships, including generous support from the Denton Parks &
Recreation Department, the Solid Waste & Recycling Department, Watershed
Protection, Keep America Beautiful, and Keep Texas Beautiful. Additional
community support was provided by Pan Ector Industries, Raising Cane's Chicken
Fingers, Beth Marie's Old-Fashioned Ice Cream, and Gnome Cones. Staff contact:
Carly Weld, Parks and Recreation
P. Summer Job Hiring – Parks and Recreation regularly hires around 300 seasonal
summer jobs for Water Works Park, Civic Center Park, and summer camps. There are
jobs for anyone 16 and older available. Some jobs, like lifeguards, require
certifications; however, some require no previous experience and will have on-the-job
training. These jobs are vital to summer programming running smoothly for Denton.
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Parks and Recreation
Q. DME Quarterly Newsletter – Denton Municipal Electric has created the attached
quarterly newsletter for April – June. This edition highlights the Logistics Team, the
Safety Program, provides updates on CIP Projects, and includes some Fun Facts. Staff
contact: Tony Puente, DME
III. Responses to Council Member Requests for Information
A. Pavement on Western Portion of Windsor Drive – On March 10, Mayor Pro Tem
Davis inquired about when the temporary asphalt at the westernmost portion of
Windsor Drive would be resurfaced and have curb and gutter installed. The
westernmost portion of Windsor Drive, where the current curb and gutter ends (see
image of the location below), is Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) right-
of-way and will be reconstructed as part of the I-35 Widening Project. City staff have
requested that TxDOT make temporary improvements to address the condition of this
strip of roadway and will report back once TxDOT communicates their plans to
address current conditions. Long-term, TxDOT has plans to build an overpass at
Windsor as part of the I-35 Widening Project. Improvements made by the Windsor 35
multifamily development will be temporary until the ultimate overpass is developed.
Staff contact: Rebecca Diviney, Capital Projects/Engineering
B. Smart Meter Compatibility – On March 30, Council Member Ryan requested
information about whether DME’s smart meters are compatible with ZigBee. After
researching, it appears that ZigBee is “older” technology that is no longer available
from that vendor. However, the company is focused on Internet of Things (IoT) via
WiFi but DME’s meters also do not have this available. As staff continues to look at
updating our Automated Meter Infrastructure (AMI), which is now over 10 years old,
staff will certainly look at this and any other home network/smart home technologies
that we may be able to make available to our customers. Staff contact: Tony Puente,
DME
C. Oak Hickory Historic District Alleyway Ownership – On April 4, Mayor Hudspeth
forwarded a resident inquiry requesting information on the status of repairs and 8
confirmation of ownership of an alleyway that connects the 900 block of Oak Street
to the 1000 block of Hickory Street (see map below). Staff has records dating back to
November 2018 with the resident who submitted the most recent request about
alleyway ownership (timeline is attached). After receiving the initial request, Real
Estate and Public Works staff began researching property ownership of the alleyway.
In April of 2019, staff had a formal survey conducted by Teague Nall and Perkins. On
May 1, 2019, staff received survey results that confirmed the alleyway is a private
drive and is part of the original Yancey Tract that developed portions of the 900 block
of Oak Street. Staff hosted a series of community meetings from May 2019 through
August 2019 to discuss alleyway ownership and answer questions about parking and
speeding enforcement in the Oak Hickory Historic District. If the City were to obtain
ownership of the alleyway, property owners would need to convey the right-of-way
and any necessary easements to the City and bring the drive up to City standards. If
the drive is made public, it will operate as a City street and access will not be limited
to property owners. Staff will also need to further investigate if there are any unpaid
taxes on the alleyway, which would need to be paid prior to accepting ownership of
the alleyway and making it a public drive. Staff contact: Rachel Wood, Capital
Projects
D. Street Parking Strategy Internal Team – On April 5, Mayor Hudspeth forwarded a
resident concern about student’s parking in front of their residence which limits the
ability for trash and recycling collection, including a time that someone moved their
carts to an area that was inaccessible for the collection trucks resulting in a missed
collection. Staff understands these frustrations and assembled an internal team to
identify potential solutions that might be able to be applied to this situation and others
throughout the city that have similar concerns. Staff will bring these ideas forward for
Council discussion during a work session at a future City Council Meeting. Staff
contact: Sara Hensley, City Manager’s Office
E. Water Meter Box Key – During the work session item at the joint Public Utility Board
and City Council meeting on April 5 regarding the storm report for the
Water/Wastewater utility, there was a discussion about providing access/key to the
water meter box. The water meter boxes are equipped with locking lids to restrict 9
residents/customers from tampering with the meter register, meter, or shut off valve
and the meter box can only be accessed by authorized City of Denton personnel or
contractors. As such, it is not recommended that the City provide keys or access to
residents/customers to the water meter boxes.
Typically, residential homes have two shut-off valves along the service line between
the water main (located under the street) and the residential structure. One valve is
located in the water meter box and the second valve is located closer to the structure.
The primary function of the first valve (one located in the meter box) is to provide
easy access to City staff for turning the water service on and off and shutting off water
service while conducting maintenance or replacing the water meter. The primary
function of the second valve (one closer to the structure) is to provide easy access to
the resident for shutting off water to their home in case of emergency or while
conducting repair/maintenance work. It should be noted that all residential homes
within the City constructed in the last 20-25 years have the two-valve system in place
and all new development in the City is required to install two separate valves.
Additionally, the City has engaged the services of a consultant to review the options
for implementing Advance Metering Infrastructure which may enable us to remotely
control (turn on and turn off) the valves for individual homes. The AMI study is
anticipated to be completed this fall and the results/recommendations will be presented
to PUB and Council for direction and approval. Staff contact: Pritam Deshmukh,
Water Utilities
F. Vision Zero Participation – On April 6, Mayor Pro Tem Davis requested a status
update on the Vision Zero Program. Staff and representatives from the Federal
Highway Administration presented Vision Zero to City Council in December of 2019
and received direction to establish a Denton Vision Zero Program. The City’s previous
Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator started preliminary work to initiate a Vision Zero
Program. However, with his departure, the project has been placed on a temporary
hold until the position described above can be filled. Staff continues to participate in
the monthly Vision Zero Texas Cities meeting in which other cities such as Austin,
San Antonio, Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston and Laredo share their experiences and
efforts in the Vision Zero arena. When the Sr. Planner -Bicycle, Pedestrian and ADA
Coordinator position is filled, the City will resume the development and
implementation of a 3-Year Action Plan. Initial interviews for the Sr. Planner will take
place on Friday, April 9. Interviews Staff contact: Becky Diviney, Capital
Projects/Engineering
G. Concessions Contract – During the April 6 Work Session, Council Member Davis and
Meltzer requested information on the inclusion of sustainable packaging and healthy
food options for the outsourced concessions contract with Mega Promotions. The City
adopted the contract with Mega Promotions in 2018, and the vendor currently utilizes
several sustainable packaging options and provides fresh fruit as a menu option for
patrons.
In 2019, the City's Sustainability Department worked with Parks and Recreation to
include sustainable packaging for all in-house concessions. The Sustainability
Department is currently working with the Procurement Department to develop
sustainability provisions for all future contracts. Staff contacts: Katherine Barnett,
Sustainability, Gary Packan, Parks and Recreation, and Christine Taylor, Procurement
and Compliance 10
H. Update on Mayhill Phase 2 Project – On April 7 Council Member Johnson forwarded
a resident inquiry to staff requesting an update on the Mayhill Phase 2 Project. The
Mayhill Phase 2 Project (often referred to as the Mayhill DCTA Project because of
the planned bridge that will span the A-Train line) will extend Mayhill from Colorado
Boulevard to the existing 4-lane divided section of Mayhill north of Quail Creek.
Project design is nearing completion, and staff is currently finalizing a few scope items
needed to bring the design to 100% complete. Staff anticipates completing design this
spring and is currently projecting to complete construction in early calendar year 2023.
Staff will have a more precise project schedule once the design is complete and the
construction contract has been advertised, which we anticipate will occur in summer
2021. Staff contact: Tracy Beck, Capital Projects
I. 377 Southbound Traffic at I-35 E – On April 7, staff received an inquiry from Council
Member Ryan regarding what could be done to address traffic back-ups at the
southbound intersection of US 377 (Carroll Boulevard) and I-35 E heading out of
downtown Denton. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) currently has
an active project on US 377 on the southside of I-35 E (from I-35 E to FM 1830) that
is approaching closeout with only a few minor punch list items remaining. After
construction work is fully closed out (which should be within the next two weeks),
TxDOT will coordinate with City Traffic Operations to make necessary signal
adjustments to address congestion at the southbound US 377 intersection. City Traffic
Operations is reviewing signal timing this week to determine if there is anything that
can be done prior to construction closeout to alleviate congestion as quickly as
possible. Traffic Engineering staff is currently assessing signage and striping to
address confusion by clarifying traffic patterns including through traffic and turning
movements. Staff will work with TxDOT to ensure signage and striping is updated at
the conclusion of the US 377 project. Staff contact: Rachel Wood, Capital Projects
J. Windsor Construction Near Woodrow Wilson Elementary – On April 8 staff received
a resident concern that was forwarded from Council Member Armintor regarding both
lanes of Windsor Drive being closed during school pickup time near Woodrow Wilson
Elementary. The City has had a single lane closure on Windsor from Hanover to
Nottingham that has been in place for approximately three weeks. The lane closure
was moved to the westbound lane of Windsor Drive from Branch Crossing to
Nottingham on Thursday, April 8. The assigned City Project Manager for Windsor
Drive has researched the potential of both lanes being closed with the construction
contractor, Public Works Inspections, and Denton Independent School District (DISD)
and cannot find the source of the dual lane closure that was reported by the resident
earlier this week. Staff is coordinating with DISD and will not be conducting
additional construction in the immediate vicinity of Woodrow Wilson Elementary
until summer break unless an emergency situation arises.
The resident who contacted Council Member Armintor also inquired about the total
project cost of construction on Windsor Drive. Windsor Drive is a part of the City’s
2019 Street Reconstruction Project, which is currently scheduled to be completed in
the fourth quarter of calendar year 2021. The total construction expense to-date for the
Windsor Drive portion of the 2019 Street Reconstruction Project is $4,598,270.15.
The total estimate at the time of construction completion for the Windsor Drive portion
of the project is $7,450,151.50. Staff contact: Trevor Crain, Capital Projects
11
K. West Hercules Reconstruction Updates – On April 8 Council Member Baker contacted
City staff regarding resident concerns about the status of construction on West
Hercules Lane. The West Hercules Reconstruction Project includes the reconstruction
and widening of West Hercules from Stuart to Sherman including the installation of
sidewalks, curb and gutter. The project is actively under construction and is nearing
closeout with an estimated completion on or before the third quarter of calendar year
2021. After receiving the notification from Council Member Baker, the assigned City
Project Manager for the West Hercules Reconstruction Project visited the site and
spoke with both Council Member Baker and the resident to discuss the concerns.
Below is an overview of the concerns and the remediation plan for each issue
discussed:
• Site cleanliness: One of the concerns discussed was the state of the worksite
including construction debris, dust and a portable restroom being left on the
premises. The worksite has been tidied up and the contractor will address dust
at the site once their street sweeper, which malfunctioned on April 7, is repaired.
The portable restroom will be removed by April 9.
• Condition of fill material: Another concern expressed was the quality of the fill
material used on lawns. Staff tested the fill material and confirmed it contained
trace amounts of lime, which is not acceptable per City specification. The
contractor will be removing four inches of the current fill material and replacing
it with higher quality material the week of April 12.
• Driveway approach: Two residents were also concerned about the angle of their
recently poured driveway approach. Staff has worked with the contractor and
adjustments to the approaches should be made to improve the angle of the
driveway within the next two weeks.
• Sprinkler head damage: The final concern discussed was damage to sprinkler
heads. Staff has coordinated with the contractor and the damaged sprinkler
heads will be replaced.
The Project Manager and Public Works Inspections staff will continue to work with
the contractor for the duration of the West Hercules Project to ensure the site remains
tidy and to mitigate impacts to residents. Staff contact: Dustin Draper, Capital Projects
IV. Upcoming Community Events and Meetings
A. 2020 Street Reconstruction Bundle Virtual Community Meeting – Thursday,
April 15, 2021 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. Email [email protected] for
link to meeting. Staff contact: Trevor Crain, Capital Projects
B. All-Way Crossing Virtual Community Meeting – Thursday, April 22 at 11 a.m.
via Zoom. Email [email protected] for link to meeting. See
attached flyer for information. Staff contact: Robin Davis, Capital Projects
C. All-Way Crossing Virtual Community Meeting – Thursday, April 22 at 6 p.m.
via Zoom. Email [email protected] for link to meeting. See
attached flyer for information. Staff contact: Robin Davis, Capital Projects
B. TCEQ Concrete Plant Meeting Info .................................................................. 18
C. COD Opposition Letter ..................................................................................... 20
D. Denton Letter re Defunding .............................................................................. 22
E. SB 10 Letter ..................................................................................................... 24
F. Priority Bill Status Report ................................................................................. 26
G. Resident Update April/May 2021...................................................................... 32
I. DME Quarterly Newsletter ............................................................................... 42
J. Oak Hickory Alleyway Timeline ...................................................................... 72
K. All-walk Crosswalk Meeting ............................................................................ 73
VI. Informal Staff Reports
A. 2021-020 Boards and Commissions Meeting Time Survey Results ................... 74
B. 2021-021 DEC Dashboard January 2021 .......................................................... 80
C. 2021-022 State Traffic Citation Programs and Warrant Clearance .................... 82
VII. Council Information
B. Council Calendar ............................................................................................. 87
E. Street Construction Report ............................................................................... 99
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TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PUBLIC HEARING FOR AN AIR QUALITY STANDARD PERMIT FOR A CONCRETE BATCH PLANT WITH ENHANCED
CONTROLS
PROPOSED AIR QUALITY REGISTRATION NUMBER 163864 APPLICATION. Platas Concrete Inc, 411 E Jones St, Lewisville, TX 75057-2613 has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for an Air Quality Standard Permit for a Concrete Batch Plant with Enhanced Controls Registration Number 163864 to authorize the operation of a concrete batch plant. The facility is proposed to be located at the following location: from the Intersection of Farm- to-Market 428 and Wildcat Road go west on Farm-to-Market 428 for approximately 0.37 miles. The site entrance will be on the left. The facility will be located in Aubrey, Denton County, Texas 76227. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/hb610/index.html?lat=33.304628&lng=- 97.034787&zoom=13&type=r. This application was submitted to the TCEQ on January 20, 2021. The primary function of this plant is to manufacture concrete by mixing materials including (but not limited to) sand, aggregate, cement and water. The executive director has determined the application was technically complete on February 4, 2021. PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC HEARING. Public written comments about this application may be submitted at any time during the public comment period. The public comment period begins on the first date notice is published and extends to the close of the public hearing. Public comments may be submitted either in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, TX 78711-3087, or electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. A public hearing has been scheduled, that will consist of two parts, an informal discussion period and a formal comment period. During the informal discussion period, the public is encouraged to ask questions of the applicant and TCEQ staff concerning the application, but comments made during the informal period will not be considered by the executive director before reaching a decision on the permit, and no formal response will be made to the informal comments. During the formal comment period, members of the public may state their comments into the official record. Written comments about this application may also be submitted at any time during the hearing. The purpose of a public hearing is to provide the opportunity to submit written comments or an oral statement about the application. The public hearing is not an evidentiary proceeding.
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The Public Hearing is to be held: Wednesday, April 7, 2021, at 6:00 pm
Members of the public who would like to ask questions or provide comments during the meeting may access the meeting via webcast by following this link: https://www.gotomeeting.com/webinar/join-webinar and entering Webinar ID 924-788-035. It is recommended that you join the webinar and register for the public meeting at least 15 minutes before the meeting begins. You will be given the option to use your computer audio or to use your phone for participating in the webinar. Those without internet access may call (512) 239-1201 at least one day prior to the meeting for assistance in accessing the meeting and participating telephonically. Members of the public who wish to only listen to the meeting may call, toll free, (213) 929-4212 and enter access code 745-015-898. Additional information will be available on the agency calendar of events at the following link: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/agency/decisions/hearings/calendar.html. RESPONSE TO COMMENTS. A written response to all formal comments will be prepared by the executive director after the comment period closes. The response, along with the executive director’s decision on the application, will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments and the response to comments will be posted in the permit file for viewing. The executive director shall approve or deny the application not later than 35 days after the date of the public hearing, considering all comments received within the comment period, and base this decision on whether the application meets the requirements of the standard permit. CENTRAL/REGIONAL OFFICE. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ Central Office and the TCEQ Dallas/Fort Worth Regional Office, located at 2309 Gravel Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76118-6951, during the hours of 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, beginning the first day of publication of this notice. INFORMATION. If you need more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 1-800-687-4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040. Further information may also be obtained from Platas Concrete Inc, 411 East Jones Street, Lewisville, TX 75057-2613, or by calling Mrs. Lacretia White, Project Manager at (972) 768-9093. Notice Issuance Date: February 11, 2021
OUR CORE VALUES
ADA/EOE/ADEA www.cityofdenton.com TDD (800) 735-2989
April 7, 2021
TCEQ
To Whom It May Concern:
The City of Denton appreciates the opportunity to share with the TCEQ Commissioners our
concerns about the issuance of an air quality general permit for the concrete batch plants with
enhanced controls proposed by Platas Concrete Inc.
This proposed site is located approximately 400 feet east to a Greenbelt Corridor created and
supported by the City of Denton in conjunction with the City of Dallas, Army Corps of
Engineers, and Texas Parks & Wildlife. At a cost of over 10 million dollars, the Greenbelt
represents a significant financial and time investment by the City and its partners in preserving
and protecting this ecologically important and unique upland and riparian habitat area.
The Greenbelt is one of our community’s most important locations for environmental protection,
education and outdoor recreation. Besides an excellent wilderness/ recreation trail, the Greenbelt
provides long-term protection of the Elm Fork River and its associated floodplain. This area
contains unique and rich habitats including a significant stand of virgin forest, bottomland
hardwoods, bobcats, ducks, coyotes, and bald eagles. Since opening in 1999, over 150,000
people annually have visited and enjoyed the scenic natural beauty found along the Greenbelt.
One of the key reasons the Greenbelt was sited in this particular location was to protect the water
quality of the Elm Fork of the Trinity River segment, which conveys water for the cities of
Denton and Dallas from Lake Ray Roberts to Lake Lewisville, our community’s sole water
supply. Platas Concrete proposed site is located within the 100-year floodplain. Given moderate
to heavy rains, the proposed site is almost completely inundated by water, which drains directly
into the Elm Fork. The proposed facility, located in a floodplain and so close to the Elm Fork,
poses a dangerous hazard to the riparian flora and fauna living in the immediate stream segment.
This, in turn, can have an overall negative impact on water quality throughout the watershed.
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The City of Denton maintains our strong belief that we can balance development and economic
growth with that of protecting our natural heritage. However, based on the reasons mentioned
above, the City of Denton must strongly oppose the granting of a TCEQ air quality standard
permit.
Sincerely,
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Office of the Mayor 215 E. McKinney St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-7717
OUR CORE VALUES Integrity Fiscal Responsibility Transparency Outstanding Customer Service
April 6, 2021 The Honorable Morgan Meyer Chairman, Ways and Means Committee Texas House of Representatives P.O. Box 2910 Austin, TX 78768-2910 Dear Chairman Meyer: The purpose of this letter is to inform you of the City of Denton’s opposition to several similar law enforcement defunding bills being heard before your committee. These bills appear to be based on several assumptions:
That only funding is directly correlated with effective public safety; There is no scenario, now or in the future, where police resource reduction and
preservation of public safety can coexist; and That a local government cannot effectively provide for public safety services.
The City of Denton has taken care to provide appropriate resources for public safety, such as increasing the police budget and staffing as part of the recent FY 2021-22 budget. However, the City believes legislation that provides a penalty, whether by tax rate limitations or other mechanism, for reducing the funding or staffing of its police operations does so at the expense of other critical services that contribute meaningfully to public safety. The City also believes authority for how it funds, staffs, and operates its police department is best left to those who know the community’s needs the best – its residents and the Council they elect to represent them. Under a number of these bills, even an inconsequential reduction in our police budget to replace a costly and ineffective program or a reduction in one staff member due to an interlocal agreement with another law enforcement agency would not only label our City as a “defunding local government”, but punitively roll back revenues that fund other critical, safety-related services such as building inspections, code enforcement, animal services, street maintenance, and fire protection. This punitive action would also extend to our electric utility where rates would be frozen at the same rate in which we were labeled a defunding city. As an enterprise operation, our electric utility must raise revenues to cover the ever-increasing costs of service. Restrictions on the ability to cover these costs would result in additional public safety hazards that come with unreliable or insufficient electric service. Several of these bills create a process by which a state agency, such as the governor’s criminal justice division, can decide of whether a city violates the funding prohibition. We strongly support language that establishes a process by which a city can participate in a formal or
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informal hearing in order to provide relevant information on the city’s budget and budget adoption process. City officials know their budgets and their police departments best, and it is imperative that cities have a seat at the table in any process that would potentially limit revenue for budgeting decisions made by the city. Another procedural safeguard that might help is to give the criminal justice division latitude to determine if a city’s budget decision has a significant adverse impact on public safety within the city. Including such a standard would give the governor’s office necessary discretion to fairly perform its duty under the bill while preserving local flexibly in preserving public safety efficiently and effectively. Additionally, considerations for disasters and economic downturns that necessitate resource reductions would provide benefit in the event of unforeseen calamity. The City would like to extend an invitation to work with you to eliminate any unintended consequences these defunding bills while still meeting the initial intent of incentivizing local law enforcement agencies to be responsive to the communities they serve. For these reasons, the City of Denton opposes law enforcement defunding bills and other similarly drafted legislation as they are currently written. Thank you for your leadership and for taking into consideration the City of Denton’s input. Sincerely, Gerard Hudspeth Mayor Cc: Honorable Members of the House Ways and Means Committee Honorable Members of the Denton County Delegation
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Office of the Mayor 215 E. McKinney St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-7717
OUR CORE VALUES Integrity Fiscal Responsibility Transparency Outstanding Customer Service
April 6, 2021 The Honorable Paul Bettencourt Senate Committee on Local Government Texas Senate P.O. Box 12068 Austin, Texas 78711 Dear Chairman Bettencourt, The purpose of this letter is to inform you of the City of Denton’s opposition to Senate Bill 10 by Senator Bettencourt. The bill significantly alters the relationship between Texas cities and state government. Under this bill, cities would lose the ability to hire individuals or firms to represent their legislative interests, proactively communicate directly with legislators and legislative staff, or advise the City on legislation and the legislative process. Essentially, this bill prohibits the hiring of persons required to register as lobbyists and severely reduces a city’s ability to engage in the legislative process. With the current volume of city-related bills being considered, it takes an extraordinary amount of time for a legislator to be informed and vote on all those bills. It is even more difficult for mayors and city council members, who may not have the legislative expertise or time to adequately research proposed changes of state statutes, to evaluate the potential impacts on municipal operations. Council and senior staff members cannot quickly and frequently travel to Austin to directly advocate for our constituents on the high volume of city-related bills. Cities rely on the knowledge and expertise of legislative consultants to not only help understand the impacts of bills, but also to help inform legislators which bills have potential adverse impacts on city operations and collaborate with the members to productively resolve issues with proposed legislation. One further concern is the extra expense cities would incur with this bill’s passage. Cities would be forced to hire additional full-time staff to spend the necessary time to provide full analyses of and coordinate action on proposed legislation. Hiring an experienced advocate who is physically present in Austin brings an added level of efficiency to the process of dropping support and opposition cards, providing testimony, and directly engaging with legislative staff and members. Costs for travel, lodging, and full compensation with benefits must be considered if cities can no longer contract with legislative advocates. The money saved by contracting with legislative advocates is far more beneficial to taxpayers. Another issue is the frequency and regularity which private industry uses lobbyists to influence legislation that affects cities. As an elected official I know the importance of being fully informed on the issues I am considering. Legislators work hard to represent the interests of
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constituents who live in their districts. To assist them in that job, they need information from multiple sources and they need to hear every side of the issue, including hearing from cities. When an industry lobbyist assures a legislator a particular bill will not adversely affect his or her constituents, the lawmaker needs a team that can quickly gather the facts, research the law, and respond from the cities perspective. Cities need advocates who can provide this service and help ensure lawmakers clearly understand the impacts of the bills they are considering. For these reasons, the City of Denton opposes SB 10. Thank you for your leadership and for taking into consideration the City of Denton’s position. Sincerely, Gerard Hudspeth Mayor Cc: Honorable Members of the Senate Local Government Committee Honorable Members of the Denton County Delegation
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- Action in the date range - Link to Related Information ( ) - Priority
Critical/High Priority
HB 11
Paddie, Chris(R) Relating to the extreme weather emergency preparedness of facilities for providing electric service.
Bill History: 04-08-21 S Referred to Senate Committee on Senate Jurisprudence
HB 88
Thompson, Senfronia(D) Relating to interactions between law enforcement and individuals detained or arrested on suspicion of the commission of criminal offenses, witnesses to the commission of those offenses, and other members of the public.
Companions: SB 161 West, Royce (Identical) 11-10-20 S Filed
Bill History: 03-25-21 H Committee action pending House Homeland Security and Public Safety
HB 610
Swanson, Valoree(R) Relating to judicial review of certain local laws applicable to state license holders.
Bill History: 03-24-21 H Committee action pending House Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence
HB 638
Krause, Matt(R) Relating to the authority of certain political subdivisions to adopt a budget that reduces the amount allocated to provide a fire protection, law enforcement, or emergency medical service.
Bill History: 03-01-21 H Introduced and referred to committee on House State Affairs
HB 652
Paul, Dennis(R) Relating to notice of an epizootic infectious disease occurring in an animal shelter.
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Bill History: 03-22-21 H Reported from committee as substituted House Public Health
HB 749
Middleton, Mayes(R) Relating to the use by a political subdivision of public funds for lobbying activities.
Companions: SB 234 Hall, Bob (Identical)
3- 3-21 S Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Affairs
Bill History: 03-25-21 H Committee action pending House State Affairs
HB 753
Bill History: 03-22-21 H Committee action pending House Environmental Regulation
HB 768
Patterson, Jared(R) Relating to the requirement that certain governmental bodies make audio and video recordings of open meetings available on the Internet.
Bill History: 03-25-21 H Committee action pending House County Affairs
HB 872
Bernal, Diego(D) Relating to the confidentiality of certain government operated utility customer information.
Companions: SB 668
Menendez, Jose (Identical)
3-11-21 S Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Business and Commerce
Bill History: 04-06-21 H Voted favorably from committee as substituted House State Affairs
HB 1024
Geren, Charlie(R) Relating to the pickup and delivery of alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption.
Companions: SB 298 Hancock, Kelly (Identical)
3-16-21 S Committee action pending Senate Business and Commerce
Bill History: 03-25-21 S Received in the Senate
HB 1391
Middleton, Mayes(R) Relating to the effect of an election at which the voters fail to approve or vote to reduce the ad
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valorem tax rate adopted by the governing body of a taxing unit.
Bill History: 03-22-21 H Committee action pending House Ways and Means
HB 1416
Capriglione, Giovanni(R) Relating to the definition of business day for purposes of the public information law.
Companions: SB 925
Zaffirini, Judith (Identical)
HB 1869
Burrows, Dustin(R) Relating to the definition of debt for the purposes of calculating certain ad valorem tax rates of a taxing unit.
HB 1885
Harris, Cody(R) Relating to restrictions on municipal regulation in certain areas.
Companions: SB 1922
Lucio, Eddie (Identical)
3-31-21 S Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Affairs
Bill History: 04-07-21 H Reported from committee as substituted House Land and Resource Management
HB 1900
Goldman, Craig(R) Relating to municipalities and counties that adopt budgets that defund law enforcement agencies.
HB 2319
Jetton, Jacey (F)(R) Relating to the use of public money to compensate a person who lobbies the federal government.
Bill History: 03-15-21 H Introduced and referred to committee on House State Affairs
HB 2362 Harris, Cody(R) Relating to municipalities and counties that adopt
budgets that defund law enforcement agencies.
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Bill History: 04-01-21 H Voted favorably from committee on House State Affairs
HB 2438
Meyer, Morgan(R) Relating to municipalities and counties that adopt budgets that defund law enforcement agencies.
HB 2548
Morrison, Geanie(R) Relating to the inspection of municipal buildings during a declared disaster.
Companions: SB 877 Hancock, Kelly (Identical)
4- 7-21 S First placement on Senate Intent Calendar for
Bill History: 04-07-21 H Committee action pending House Urban Affairs
HB 2590
Leach, Jeff(R) Relating to the time for the issuance of municipal building permits.
Companions: SB 1947
Springer, Drew (F) (Identical)
3-31-21 S Introduced and referred to committee on Senate Local Government
Bill History: 04-06-21 H Committee action pending House Land and Resource Management
HB 2683
Canales, Terry(D) Relating to requirements for open meetings that are broadcast over the Internet or held by telephone conference or videoconference call.
Companions: SB 924
Zaffirini, Judith (Identical)
HB 3069
Holland, Justin(R) Relating to statutes of limitation and repose for certain claims involving the construction or repair of an improvement to real property or equipment attached to real property.
Bill History: 03-31-21 H Committee action pending House Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence
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HB 3935
Slawson, Shelby (F)(R) Relating to the distribution of municipal sales and use tax revenue to a municipality that reduces the funding allocated to law enforcement agencies.
SB 10
Bettencourt, Paul(R) Relating to the use by a county or municipality of public money for lobbying activities.
Bill History: 04-06-21 S Committee action pending Senate Local Government
SB 23
Huffman, Joan(R) Relating to an election to approve a reduction or reallocation of funding or resources for a municipal or county law enforcement agency.
Bill History: 04-08-21 S First placement on Senate Intent Calendar for
SB 46
Zaffirini, Judith(D) Relating to the municipal regulation of housing for homeless individuals provided by a religious organization.
Companions: HB 2405
Rodriguez, Eddie (Identical)
4- 8-21 H Voted favorably from committee on House Urban Affairs
Bill History: 03-29-21 S Meeting set for 10:00 A.M., EXT AUDITORIUM - Senate Local Government
SB 234
Hall, Bob(R) Relating to the use by a political subdivision of public funds for lobbying activities.
Companions: HB 749 Middleton, Mayes (Identical)
3-25-21 H Committee action pending House State Affairs
Bill History: 03-03-21 S Introduced and referred to committee on Senate State Affairs
SB 778
Hinojosa, Chuy(D) Relating to the review by local governmental entities of certain sales and use tax audit reports and audit working papers.
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Companions: HB 4032
Herrero, Abel (Identical)
4-12-21 H Meeting set for 10:00 A.M. OR ADJ., JHR 140, House Ways and Means
Bill History: 03-30-21 S Committee action pending Senate Finance
SB 861
Paxton, Angela(R) Relating to remote meetings under the open meetings law.
Companions: HB 3793
Shaheen, Matt (Identical)
3-22-21 H Introduced and referred to committee on House State Affairs
Bill History: 04-07-21 S Voted favorably from committee as substituted Senate Business and Commerce
SB 877
Hancock, Kelly(R) Relating to the inspection of municipal buildings during a declared disaster.
Companions: HB 2548 Morrison, Geanie (Identical)
4- 7-21 H Committee action pending House Urban Affairs
Bill History: 04-07-21 S First placement on Senate Intent Calendar for
SB 987
Buckingham, Dawn(R) Relating to prohibitions on camping in a public place.
Companions: HB 1925
Capriglione, Giovanni (Identical)
4- 1-21 H Voted favorably from committee on House State Affairs
Bill History: 04-12-21 S Meeting set for 12:30 P.M., EXT AUDITORIUM - Senate Local Government
Total Bills: 32
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2021 APRIL/MAY
• DCPH Vaccine Information
• Prevent Recycling Contamination
COVID-19 Vaccines: What You Need to Know ........ 3
City to Update Multi-Year Comprehensive Plan ....... 4
City Council Election Set for Saturday, May 1 ........... 5
5 Tips to Keep You Healthy & Safe This Spring ......... 5
Help Us Prevent Recycling Contamination ............... 6
Meet Anthony Cunningham ......................................... 6
Signs of Spring in the Redbud Capital of Texas ........ 7
Fire Dept. Celebrates Opening of Stations 3 & 8...... 7
Featured Events ............................................................... 7
IN THIS ISSUE
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To protect the health and safety of the Denton community; City Council, board, and commission members; and City staff, all public meetings have moved to a remote format until further notice. All meetings will use the new Rules of Procedure that were adopted during the March 31, 2020, Council meeting.
Scheduled public meetings are streamed online at www.cityofdenton.com/dtv, made available on-demand, and can be viewed live on the City’s DTV cable channel (Frontier FiOS on channel 38, Charter Spectrum on channel 194, and Grande on channel 12). Due to the remote format of the meetings, no in-person attendance at Denton City Hall will be permitted.
Certain meetings will accommodate and receive public input on eligible agenda items. Members of the community are able to participate using our virtual public comment options, including an online Virtual White Card and by phone.
For additional information and a current list of upcoming public meetings, visit www.cityofdenton.com/publicmeetings.
VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETINGS
Throughout the last year, Denton has proven to be one of the strongest, most compassionate, and resilient communities in North Texas. From the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020, to February’s unexpected and unprecedented winter weather emergency, the residents and businesses that make up our unique city have stepped up to the challenge.
The week of Feb. 14 proved to be bitterly cold and challenging as sub-zero temperatures rapidly covered the state. As you know, communities across Texas, including Denton, were faced with power and water outages, hazardous driving conditions, and empty store shelves. It was an unprecedented event in a year of unprecedented events. For all of us, it was a time of uncertainty and anticipation. For some of us, it was a time of fear and great concern.
What I hope to convey to you in this short message is that, throughout the entire storm, this community—our community—stood tall and never wavered. We took care of our loved ones, checked on our neighbors, and provided for those in need.
City leaders and staff, in partnership with the State of Texas and Denton County, worked alongside residents, nonprofit organizations, and grass roots community groups to provide Denton residents with access to critical information, warming stations/shelters, power for essential medical devices, bottled water and showering facilities, drivable roadways, and critical emergency services. We all did more with less under trying and extraordinary conditions.
Lessons will be learned from this storm. Not everything went the way we would have liked, but we will rise above this challenge more resilient and united than ever.
I am proud to be a part of this great community. Stay strong.
FROM THE MAYOR
Birdia Johnson, District 1 | [email protected]
Connie Baker, District 2 | [email protected]
Jesse Davis, District 3 | [email protected]
John Ryan, District 4 | [email protected]
Deb Armintor, At Large Place 5 | [email protected]
Paul Meltzer, At Large Place 6 | [email protected]
Not sure who your Council Member is? Visit www.cityofdenton.com/council, click on “Find Your Council
Member” in the menu bar, and enter your physical address.
Gerard Hudspeth, Mayor
City of Denton offices will be closed on Monday, May 31 in observance of Memorial Day.
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COVID-19 VACCINES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW As of March 23, 2021, the Texas Department of State Health Services announced that all individuals over the age of 16 are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. To date, the Denton County Public Health (DCPH) vaccine clinic has already administered more than 170,000 first and second doses. To see how you can join the clinic waitlist, visit the DCPH Vaccine Interest Portal at http://bit.ly/DCPHPortal. Demand and availability will impact how long it will take for you to receive your invitation for a vaccine appointment.
If you need help getting to the clinic, there are also transportation resources available. Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) and Span Inc. are working with Denton County to help all residents have access to vaccinations. If you have a vaccine appointment and need a ride, just call (940) 243-0077.
As our community continues to fight against COVID-19, the City of Denton recommends that individuals and businesses use precautions and best practices recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to slow the spread. We can help keep our friends, neighbors, and families safe by washing our hands frequently, wearing face coverings, and practicing social distancing.
Register for the Vaccine Interest Portal: http://bit.ly/DCPHPortal
See if You’re Eligible for the Vaccine: DentonCounty.gov/vaccine
Vaccine Clinic Transportation Help: (940) 243-0077
IMPORTANT COVID-19 VACCINE RESOURCES
WE'RE HIRING SUMMER JOBSSUMMER JOBS
Denton Parks and Recreation | www.dentonparks.com
We have 300+ summer jobs to fill that are essential to summer programs and facility operations. For job descriptions, conditions of employment, and a schedule of training deadlines, visit www.dentonjobs.com.
To register for American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor or Waterpark Lifeguard training, visit www.dentonparks.com.
TRAINING REGISTRATION IS OPEN
300+ SUMMER JOBS AVAILABLE
We're currently accepting applications for the following summer camp jobs:
We're also currently accepting applications for the following aquatic summer jobs:
SUMMER CAMPS
WATER WORKS PARK Civic Center Pool, & Denton NAT (age requirements will vary by position)
Must like making a positive impact onthe community and in the minds of kids.
If you're ready for a rewarding summer job experience, apply online at www.dentonjobs.com
Camp Supervisor Camp Counselor Camp Coordinator II
Concessions Manager Assistant Concessions Manager Concessions Attendant Pool Cashier Birthday Party Host/Hostess Lifeguard Swim Instructor I Swim Instructor II- WSIAPPLY ONLINEAPPLY ONLINE
www.dentonjobs.com
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CITY TO UPDATE MULTI-YEAR COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Denton is looking a generation into the future! The City is in the process of updating our Comprehensive Plan— a major guiding document that sets a vision for what the community will be 20 years from today, and provides a pathway toward that vision. The Plan helps us understand our unique community characteristics and environment, and how they can impact development, the provision of City services, protection of our natural
assets, and other governmental activities. The Plan sets goals, policies, and actions to manage growth, promote reinvestment, and improve the quality of life for Denton residents. This process occurs once every 5-7 years and is an important and essential event.
To capture the spirit of this effort, this significant project was given the name Denton Plan 2040: Growing with a Unified Purpose. “Growing with a Unified Purpose” was selected because the city is currently experiencing, and will continue to experience, tremendous growth. We need a Comprehensive Plan that provides a framework that adequately accounts for Denton’s continued long-term growth and provides a forward-looking roadmap to joins the operations of the City with the goals of the community under a unified purpose.
The update process officially kicked off in February with stakeholder interviews and focus group meetings. In March, the City held its first virtual community workshop where attendees were provided the opportunity to share their own vision for Denton’s future. A second community workshop is expected in May 2021, which will focus on Downtown Denton, new growth areas, city infrastructure and services, and economic development. Additional public meetings will occur throughout the spring and summer.
Once complete, Denton Plan 2040 will reflect Denton as is and as it will be, embody the community’s vision, and target major issues that the City must address in both the near-term and long-term. The Plan will also include a special topic study, which is to review and update the Downtown Master Plan.
The anticipated completion of Denton Plan 2040 is October 2021. For additional information about Denton Plan 2040, including future updates and announcements about public input opportunities, visit www.cityofdenton.com/denton2040.
Denton Plan 2040 will play an integral role in various City services, programs, and initiatives, including:
• Master Plans • Master Planned Communities • Overlays and Districts • Mobility and Plans for Future Roads • Connectivity • Modes of Transportation (bicycle, trails, bus, and rail transit) • Pedestrian Circulation (Downtown and University areas) • Zoning • Placement of Parks and Open Space • Location of public safety facilities • Economic development strategy • Employment (Workforce Development) • Infrastructure plans, investments • Growth (location, capacity, timeline) • Annexation
• Budget and Finance • Land Use (balance and distribution) • Housing (diversity and affordability) • Community Health • Environmental Protection • Air and Water Quality • Natural Resources • Historic Preservation • Tourism and Entertainment • Public Art • Urban Design • Neighborhood Protection • Redevelopment and Infill • Solid Waste and Recycling • Emergency Services
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CITY COUNCIL ELECTION SET FOR SATURDAY, MAY 1
Saturday, May 1 is Election Day for City Council candidates. Four seats are up for election: Districts 1, 2, 3, and 4. Qualified voters are only eligible to vote for candidates in the district in which they reside.
WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES? (Listed in ballot order.)
District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 Matt Irvine Connie Baker Jesse Davis John Ryan Birdia Johnson Daniel Clanton Alison Maguire Vicki Byrd Brian Beck WHAT DISTRICT AM I IN? To find your voting district, visit www.cityofdenton.com/vote, click “Locate my Voter District,” and enter your physical address and date of birth. If you have any problems locating your information, contact the Denton County Elections Administration at (940) 349-3200.
WHERE DO I VOTE EARLY FOR THE ELECTION? During early voting, you can vote at any polling location in Denton County. You can find early voting location information at www.votedenton.com.
WHERE DO I VOTE ON ELECTION DAY? Election Day polling locations are assigned based on City Council district and County precinct. You can find your voting precinct information and polling locations at www.votedenton.com.
¿DONDE PUEDO ENCONTRAR INFORMACION DE ELECCION EN ESPAÑOL? Para obtener información sobre la eleccion en español, visite a www.votedenton.com y haga clic en “Español” en la pancarta que se encuentra arriba de la página o llame a la Oficina de la Secretaria de la Ciudad al (940) 349-8309.
As spring weather approaches, the City’s Community Improvement Services Division has compiled a list of tips to help you maintain health and safety in your neighborhood and remain in compliance with City codes:
KEEP SIDEWALKS CLEAR: Local code requires that sidewalks remain clear to allow people to walk freely without any obstructions. Take care not to park vehicles over a sidewalk, and keep bushes trimmed to avoid blocking a walkway.
TRIM GRASS & WEEDS: Grass and weeds taller than 12 inches in height are considered unsanitary and a code violation. Keep your yard trimmed below 12 inches to help keep the community safer and cleaner!
REMOVE TRASH & DEBRIS: Keep property free from trash and debris to prevent attracting mosquitoes, rodents, and disease-carrying pests. Prioritize your property and health by getting rid of bulky trash and items that may collect standing water. Residents can request a bulk trash pickup by submitting a ‘Trash and Recycling’ request through the Engage Denton mobile app or calling Customer Service at (940) 349-8700.
STORE TRASH CARTS PROPERLY: Trash carts must be stored on the side or rear of the house or inside a garage or shed. Carts can be put out after 6 p.m. the day before your trash day and must be placed back on the side or rear of house by 8 a.m. the day after trash is collected.
REGISTER FOR EMERGENCY WEATHER UPDATES: There is a higher risk of severe storms in Texas during the spring months. CodeRED is an emergency notification service that alerts residents of local emergencies and weather events. Visit www.cityofdenton.com/codered to register for CodeRED alerts and stay prepared for extreme weather conditions.
FIVE TIPS TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY & SAFE THIS SPRING
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HELP US PREVENT CONTAMINATION
Over the last several months, the City has seen an increase in recycling contamination. What is recycling contamination, you ask?
Contamination is defined as any material placed in a recycling cart that can contaminate other recyclables. Contamination can affect the processing of recyclables, the safety of staff, and the quality of recycled material.
KEEP THESE CONTAMINANTS OUT OF YOUR RECYCLING CART:
Bagged Recyclables Please do not bag recyclables.
When it gets to our recycling facility, staff will not know if the bag contains clean recyclables or trash. Keep your recycling loose and dry in the cart and at our recycling drop-off locations.
Plastic Bags & Film Take single-use plastic shopping bags, films, and wraps (like bread bags, dry cleaning bags, newspaper bags, etc.) to a drop-off box, which are often available at local grocery stores. These items do not belong in your recycling cart. Single-use plastics are flexible and can wrap around our machinery. This halts production and causes our recycling facility staff to have to climb into the machinery and pull out these tanglers.
Styrofoam Throw Styrofoam away in your trash cart. Styrofoam is not recyclable through our program and decreases the quality of the recyclables it may be bailed with.
Trash Please do not use your recycling cart as an additional trash cart or donation bin.
Items such as food waste, yard waste, furniture, and clothing/textiles are all things that do not belong in your recycling cart. If you have additional trash you cannot fit in your trash cart, contact Customer Service at (940) 349-8700 to schedule additional trash bags as bulky items, or make arrangements for a second trash cart. If you aren’t sure how to dispose of something, check out our Waste Wizard app at www.dentonrecycles.com. This online application can provide more information on what goes in your trash cart, recycling cart, or requires special disposal. Our staff is also available to answer any questions you may have—just send an email to [email protected].
MEET ANTHONY CUNNINGHAM
COMMUNITY RESOURCE OFFICER
Since joining the Denton Police Department (DPD) in 2003, Officer Cunningham has dedicated his time to helping bridge the gap between our agency and the community we serve. As part of this commitment to community-oriented, relationship- based policing, he is stationed at a remote office at MLK Jr. Recreation Center. He believes as DPD does, that it is essential for officers to know and understand the people, places, and cultures in the areas where they work. Officer Cunningham’s roots run deep in Southeast Denton where he was raised. He has 25 years of service as a certified police officer and has obtained his Master Peace Officer license from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Outside of work, he can be found coaching youth sports and mentoring students. “I am excited for the opportunity to engage community members in dialogue that connects core concerns with community action,” Cunningham said. “This will help the department identify attainable and specific areas for change that will unify and build community trust and empowerment.” To get in touch with Officer Cunningham, call (940) 349-7978, email Anthony.Cunningham@ cityofdenton.com, or stop by the MLK Jr. Recreation Center located at 1300 Wilson St.
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SUMMER READING CHALLENGE Denton Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Challenge will take place from May 27 to July 31.
Readers of all ages can sign up online at Denton.ReadSquared.com beginning May 27. No library card is required and people of all ages are encouraged to join the challenge.
HONEY RUN VIRTUAL 5K & 10K
Spring is here and so are the blooming redbud trees! The redbud is so beloved in Denton that in 1994, Denton became the Redbud Capital of Texas. Although small in stature, the redbud tree is easily identifiable by its green heart-shaped leaves and vibrant, not red, but pink flowers. Redbuds can grow up to 15 to 30 feet in height and the crown can reach 10 to 20 feet, which makes it the perfect understory tree species.
Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are attracted to the bright magenta flowers, and many native species of bees rely on this early bloomer for survival. Texas has three native varieties of redbuds: eastern redbud, Texas redbud, and Mexican redbud. Our Cross Timbers region is well suited for the Texas variety due to its drought tolerance and drier, more alkaline soils.
While the typical in-person Redbud Festival may be canceled this year, Keep Denton Beautiful (KDB) is still offering a few ways to celebrate our most beloved tree. KDB, in partnership with Texas Woman’s University (TWU), will be sharing a designated campus Redbud Route along TWU’s Dr. Bettye Myers Butterfly Garden. Walk the route and share your photos using the hashtag #dentonredbuds.
While you’re out and about experiencing Denton’s fantastic parks, help us create more future redbud routes across the city by mapping your own findings using the iNaturalist app: www.inaturalist.org/ projects/denton-trees. These pink blossoms only last a short time between mid-March and May—enjoy them before they’re gone!
SIGNS OF SPRING IN THE REDBUD CAPITAL OF TEXAS
The Denton Fire Department (DFD) recently celebrated the grand opening of the newly rebuilt Fire Station 3 (1401 Underwood St.) on Feb. 12. This four-bay, 16,000-square-foot station replaced the existing two-bay station that was built in 1970. The new station, which can house up to 12 firefighters, currently houses Engine 3 and Medic 3, a small Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting truck (ARFF 3), and a second Battalion Chief who supervises the stations on the west side of the city. Fire Station 3 is built for growth and will eventually house a second truck company.
Additionally, on Friday, Feb. 26, DFD opened the brand new Fire Station 8 (3131 Colorado Blvd.). This is the first new fire station and engine company since Fire Station 7 opened for service in 2007. This two-bay, 8,400-square- foot station serves southeast Denton and houses Medic 8, the new Engine 8, and can house up to seven firefighters.
To learn more about the Denton Fire Department, including the location of all eight fire stations, visit www.dentonfire.com.
DENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT CELEBRATES OPENING OF REBUILT FIRE STATION 3 AND NEW FIRE STATION 8
Honey Run has gone virtual this year! Visit www.dentonparks.com to register for this free, virtual race.
Participants will receive a free T-shirt, but quantities are limited to first come, first served. Prizes will be raffled for those who complete the race.
MOVIES IN THE PARK
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to Quakertown Park for a socially distanced outdoor family movie night! Movies will begin around sunset.
April 23 - The Croods: A New Age (PG)
May 14 - Jumanji: The Next Level (PG-13)
For more spring and summer activities, visit www.dentonparks.com.
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CONNECT WITH US TO STAY UPDATED!
A publication of the City of Denton • 03/21 • ADA/EOE/ADEA • TDD (800) 735-2989 • www.cityofdenton.com
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Denton uses surface water from Lake Lewisville and Lake Ray Roberts for its water supply. Drinking water, both tap and bottled, can come from a variety of sources including rivers, lakes, streams, reservoirs, and springs. As water travels over the land’s surface or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and radioactive material and can be polluted by animal or human activity.
Contaminants that might be expected in untreated water include: microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria; inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals; pesticides and herbicides; organic chemicals from industrial processes or petroleum use; and radioactive materials.
Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or visiting www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water.
Water, whether tap or bottled, is regulated for safety. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulates water provided by public water systems while the Food and Drug Administration establishes regulations for bottled water.
Contaminants may be found in drinking water that may cause taste, color, or odor problems. These types of problems are not necessarily causes for health concerns. For more information on taste, odor, or color of drinking water, please call Water Production at (940) 349-7525.
It is more responsible, and cheaper and easier, to keep contaminants out of our lakes than it is to remove them once they get in. Excessive or improper use of pesticides/herbicides, improper disposal of used oil and antifreeze, and littering are just a few activities that can lead to pollution in our drinking water supply. Learn more about protecting our water on the following pages, and please do your part to stop pollution.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality completed an assessment of your source water and results indicate that some of our sources are susceptible to certain contaminants. The sampling requirements for your water system are based on this susceptibility and previous sample data. Any detections of these contaminants may be found in this report. For more information about source water assessments and protection efforts at our system, contact Abbigayle Otteson, Water Regulation Compliance Coordinator, at (940) 349-7477.
There are a number of options available to learn more about Denton Water Utilities or to participate in decision-making processes. For questions about this report or the quality of our drinking water, call Abbigayle Otteson, Water Regulation Compliance Coordinator, at
(940) 349-7477. For participation opportunities, call Utilities Administration at (940) 349-7154. For the Public Utilities Board meeting times and locations, visit our website at www.cityofdenton.com/publicmeetings.
EN ESPAÑOL: Este reporte incluye información importante sobre el ag

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