Denton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Denton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Tree and Landscape Code Amendments
Denton's urban forestry program and its progress on tree planting under the Urban Forest Master Plan will be reviewed. The discussion shapes how the city grows and maintains its tree canopy, which affects shade, air quality, and neighborhood character.
Sustainability Framework Fund Planning
The fund has about $655,000 against a $1.1 million work plan, so rebates for EVs, e-bikes, and electric lawn equipment are funded first, while park electric mowers and fleet support get nothing this year. Programs may close early if money runs out.
GreenSense energy-efficiency rebates
The program awarded 872 rebates last year — mostly HVAC and attic insulation — cutting an estimated 1.45 million kilowatt hours and 829 metric tons of CO2. Members asked for better public info on rebate levels and historic-district window options.
Greenhouse gas inventory update
Denton hasn't published a greenhouse gas audit since 2019, and the 2030 reduction target is approaching. A member asked to add a discussion item; staff said the 2023 inventory is nearly complete and should be ready by December or January.
Sustainability education and schools program growth
Outreach reached 15,473 people last year (up ~11%), and the Denton Sustainable Schools program grew from 9 to 15 schools, adding all four high schools. Members suggested more HOA outreach, charter and private schools, and utility-bill promotion of the newsletter.
Denton Renewable Resource Plan Review and Policy Models
Staff put a price tag on Denton's 100% renewable electricity: roughly $14.7 million a year, about $7 a month on the average residential bill. The council leaned toward keeping bills flat by drawing down an over-collected energy fund rather than skipping the planned 3% base rate increase.
Sidewalk Heat Intensity and Shade Infrastructure
The committee reviewed a study on sidewalk heat-mitigation coatings, which staff recommended against due to high costs and unknown durability. Committee members emphasized that shade trees and natural canopy are vital infrastructure to make sidewalks usable during scorching Texas summers.
Water Conservation and Sources
Committee members raised questions about water usage in community gardens and requested a broader report on Denton's water supplies and conservation incentives.
Grid Reliability and Emergency Response
Heads up, Denton! A major winter storm is headed your way, bringing rain and freezing temperatures. The city is gearing up to ensure everyone stays safe, so keep an eye out for more info.
Water Treatment Plant Upgrades and Expansion
Water utilities staff presented a comprehensive quarterly update on over 1.3 billion dollars in wastewater infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Pecan Creek and Clear Creek water reclamation plants to serve rapid growth.
Water Treatment Plant Upgrades and Expansion
Denton is investing over $92 million to expand and modernize the Pecan Creek Water Reclamation Plant, replacing 60-year-old infrastructure and increasing treatment capacity to 30 million gallons per day to support city growth.
Water and Wastewater System Monitoring
Denton is moving forward with a $26 million project to replace all water meters with cellular smart meters over the next two years, helping residents track usage and spot leaks early.
Winter Storm Response
Winter Storm Fern threw a wrench in Denton's trash pickup and closed some city buildings. Officials are letting residents know about the disruptions and any rescheduled services.