HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-016 Boards and Commissions January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
INFORMAL STAFF REPORT
TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
SUBJECT:
Standardizing boards and commissions terms and streamlining related processes.
SUMMARY:
On September 9, Council Member Jill Jester presented a two-minute pitch to consider the
standardization of board and commission terms, a review of meeting frequency and quorum
challenges, and the exploration of software tools to support Council Members.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Denton relies on the valuable contributions of its residents through a network of 27
boards and commissions. These bodies provide meaningful opportunities for public engagement
and help shape the City's decision-making processes.
Managed by the City Secretary's Office, with departmental staff serving as liaisons, these boards
and commissions play an important role in our community. City Council Members nominate
residents to serve, and the City Secretary's Office ensures eligibility before presenting the
nominations to Council for approval.
In FY 2024-25, the City Secretary's Office conducted a comprehensive review of all boards and
commissions. As a result, several improvements were implemented including a new board liaison
training, enhanced tracking of meeting minutes and attendance, and overall increased efficiency.
The review also identified ongoing challenges, such as difficulty meeting quorum and persistent
vacancies. These issues contributed to the dissolution of the Internal Audit Advisory Committee
and a reduction in membership of the Community Services Advisory Committee. The review did
not consider the appointment or nomination processes, membership terms, meeting frequency, or
the need for additional software tools.
Following Council consensus on moving Council Member Jester's two-minute pitch forward,staff
solicited feedback from board liaisons and department directors, while conducting a thorough
review of the current boards and commissions processes, including the nomination and
appointment process, term lengths and effective dates.
The following recommendations aim to improve consistency, transparency, and efficiency across
all boards and commissions.
DISCUSSION:
Summary of Boards and Commissions:
The City of Denton's network of 27 resident boards, commissions/committees is made up of 21
advisory boards, commissions, and committees, and 6 quasi-judicial boards, commissions, and
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committees. Five of the 27 committees are required by state law and/or the City's Charter. The
City Council participates in three Council committees, and 5 hybrid council-resident committees.
Requirements for service on the majority of resident boards or commissions include being 18 years
of age or older, a resident of the City of Denton, and not being in arrears on any payments to the
City. City Secretary's Office staff are responsible for the vetting of applicants prior to Council
consideration.
Most board and commission members serve two-year terms, with a limit of three consecutive
terms. However, a few boards have different term lengths and limits:
• Denton PD Chief of Police Advisory Board: 3-year terms, max of 2 consecutive terms
• Capital Improvements Advisory Committee: 4-year terms, max of 2 consecutive terms
• Civil Service Commission: 3-year terms, max of 3 consecutive terms (required by state
statute)
• Public Utilities Board: 4-year terms, max of 3 consecutive terms
City Comparison
As part of our ongoing evaluation, staff reviewed the number of boards and commissions in several
cities across the region. The data shown in Exhibit 2 indicates that Denton maintains more boards
than many other cities, which reflects our commitment to civic engagement, transparency, and
community representation. However, it's important to note that a higher number of boards does
not necessarily equate to stronger engagement or better outcomes. Meaningful civic engagement
is best supported through boards and commissions with clearly defined purposes, manageable
scopes of work, and adequate staff support.
Additionally,Denton's ongoing,year-round board and commission process is an outlier compared
to many other cities. Most other cities follow a more structured approach, such as an annual board
cycle, scheduled recruitment events, or coordinated onboarding timelines, which help streamline
operations and improve consistency in member engagement.
Standardizing Board Terms
Currently, many board and commission terms begin and end in the fall, typically between August
and October. However, inconsistencies in term start and end dates have created confusion and
administrative challenges.
To address this, staff recommend aligning all board, commission, and committee terms to a
uniform term cycle, beginning September 1 and ending August 31, which will closely align with
the City's budget and strategic goal cycles.
For additional consistency, staff further recommend the following renewal structure:
• Even-numbered Council Places: Terms renew in even-numbered years
• Odd-numbered Council Places: Terms renew in odd-numbered years
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Keeping with existing procedure, in the event of a vacancy occurring outside the regular term
cycle, such as through an unexpected resignation or other extenuating circumstances, the position
would be filled for the remainder of the unexpired term. This approach ensures that the established
term cycle remains intact,preserving consistency across all boards, commissions, and committees
while allowing for timely appointments as needed.
This approach will simplify term tracking, improve transparency, and ensure a more predictable
and equitable appointment process across all boards and committees.
Recruitment and Application Process
The City currently operates a year-round application process for all boards, commissions, and
committees. The City Secretary's Office accepts applications on a rolling basis,and,upon request,
shares submitted applications with Council Members to assist in the nomination process.
If Council adopts the proposed changes to standardize term start dates (beginning September 1),
the recruitment and application process could be streamlined into a more focused, time-bound
cycle. Staff recommend establishing a defined annual application period from May 15 to July 15
each year.
This approach would:
• Allow staff to concentrate efforts during a specific period, improving efficiency and
coordination.
• Enable a more strategic and targeted recruitment approach.
• Enhance public engagement through a coordinated outreach campaign.
To support this effort, the City Secretary's Office would collaborate with the Marketing and
Communications team to develop a citywide informational campaign aimed at attracting a diverse
pool of qualified applicants. Additionally, to bridge the gap between application periods, staff
would develop a Boards and Commissions Interest Form that would be available year-round on
the City's boards and commissions webpage. The form would require only basic contact
information to be used to invite applications when the application period is active.
Nomination Process
Currently, the City Secretary's Office engages Council Members throughout the year to consider
nominations for vacancies on boards, commissions, and committees. This rolling approach, while
flexible, can lead to inconsistent timing and coordination.
With the proposed shift to a defined application period (May 15 — July 15), August would serve
as a dedicated nomination month, providing Council Members a focused opportunity to work
closely with the City Secretary's Office, review applications, and engage directly with applicants
and potential nominees. This streamlined approach aims to foster more intentional outreach,
improve transparency, and strengthen community involvement in the appointment process.
Nomination Process Options:
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• Individual Council Member Meetings: The City Secretary's Office could schedule
annual or biannual one-on-one meetings with each Council Member to:
• Review current and upcoming vacancies
• Discuss submitted applications
• Facilitate the nomination process
• Annual Council-Applicant Event: Host a yearly event where applicants are invited to
meet Council Members. This could take the form of:
• A formal interview session, or
• An informal meet-and-greet, depending on Council's preference and
availability.
Staff recommend implementing individual Council Member meetings beginning in August 2026.
Given the potential for reduced board membership and meeting frequency during the transition,
staff does not recommend launching a public event in the first year. However, an annual event
could be considered in future years once the new recruitment and appointment cycle is fully
established.
Boards and Commissions Software
The City of Denton uses Granicus' Boards and Commissions software to manage board member
information, vacancies, and applications. While the software offers a range of helpful features, it
is currently not being used to its full potential.
Application Management: Applicants submit their materials directly through the online portal.
Applications are stored in the system for six months, allowing staff to easily access and review
submissions as needed.
Packet Feature: At this time, the packet feature within the software is not being utilized. This tool
allows staff to compile multiple applications into a single PDF packet, which can then be shared
with Council Members during the nomination process. Staff recommend implementing the packet
feature in 2026 to improve the efficiency and consistency of the nomination process.
Attendance Tracking: The software includes functionality to track board member attendance and
generate reports.However,this depends on accurate and timely data entry following each meeting.
The City Secretary's Office recommends continuing to reinforce that board liaisons enter
attendance data regularly and generate reports every six months. These reports can be shared with
Council to support decisions regarding member participation and quorum challenges.
Additionally, attendance reports can be included with application packets during the onboarding
process to give Council Members a more complete view of board activity and engagement.
These features are included in the existing Granicus Suite and would not require additional
budgetary allocations. If the proposed modifications do not meet operational needs, staff will
evaluate alternative software solutions that may require budgeting in future years.
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Special Qualifications
Seven boards and commissions have additional membership qualifications or requirements, often
involving professional experience or representation in relevant fields:
• Animal Services Advisory Committee
o Required by state law. Membership must include:
■ One licensed veterinarian with a principal business address or residence in
the City of Denton
■ One City official
■ One City of Denton Animal Shelter employee
■ One representative from an animal welfare organization
• Capital Improvements Advisory Committee
o Required by state law. Membership must include:
■ At least 50% of the seven members must be representatives from the real
estate, development, or building industries who are not employees or
officials of a political subdivision or governmental entity
■ One member must be a resident and representative from the City of
Denton's extraterritorial jurisdiction(ETJ)
• Discover Denton Advisory Board
o Membership must include 13 voting members representing:
■ Three hotel/motel owners or general managers
■ Two entertainment venues or restaurants
■ Two attractions or events
■ One Denton Convention Center representative
■ One higher education representative
■ One Greater Denton Arts Council representative
■ One transportation representative
■ Two City Council members
• Economic Development Partnership Board
o Membership must include representatives of the following organizations and/or
industries:
■ One University of North Texas President or designee
■ One Texas Woman's University President or designee
■ One Aviation
■ Two City Council Members
■ Two Top 20 Taxpayers
■ Two Denton Chamber of Commerce
■ One Denton Black Chamber of Commerce
■ One Denton Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
■ Ex-officios: City Manager, Denton ISD Superintendent, Denton Chamber
President
• Health and Building Standards Commission
o Membership must include:
■ One general contractor
■ One architect or engineer
■ One representative from the plumbing industry
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■ One representative from the electrical industry
■ Two individuals associated with the construction, development, or real
estate industry
■ One additional member
• Historic Landmark Commission
o Required by state law. Membership must include five members with qualifications,
professions, or affiliations in the following areas:
■ Architecture
■ Architectural history
■ Planning
■ Prehistoric and historic archaeology
■ Folklore, cultural anthropology, curation, conservation, or landscape
architecture
• Sustainability Framework Advisory Committee
o Membership should reflect academic, professional, occupational, or volunteer
experience in one or more of the following areas outlined in the Sustainability
Framework:
■ Air quality
■ Water
■ Energy
■ Transportation
■ Resiliency
■ Education
■ Solid waste
■ Land use
The vetting process for these qualifications has been inconsistent in the past, as the existing
application process has lacked the appropriate questions or fillable fields for the applicant to
provide their qualifications.
To better support the nomination process for boards requiring specific qualifications, the City
Secretary has activated the resume requirement for all applicants.Resumes will assist both the City
Secretary and board liaisons in evaluating eligibility and ensuring applicants meet the necessary
criteria. For boards with qualification requirements, applicant resumes will be included in the
application packets shared with Council Members.
To reduce unnecessary data storage, the City Secretary has submitted a ticket to Granicus to
explore whether the resume requirement can be limited to only those boards that require specific
qualifications.
In addition, for boards with specialized requirements, staff are working to implement a 500-word
required essay as part of the application. This essay will allow applicants to explain how their
education, qualifications, and professional experience align with the board's criteria. This
enhancement will help liaisons,directors, and the City Secretary's Office more effectively identify
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qualified candidates, especially in cases where resumes may not clearly convey relevant
experience.
STAFF REVIEW OF ALL BOARDS, COMMISSIONS,AND COMMITTEES:
As part of the pitch response, staff conducted a comprehensive review of all boards, commissions,
and committees. This included meeting with board liaisons, department directors, and other
relevant staff to discuss each board's operations, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
Staff were encouraged to share any barriers impacting their board's functionality and to propose
potential solutions that could streamline processes or enhance engagement. A key focus of these
discussions was to evaluate whether any committees may no longer be necessary or could operate
effectively with reduced meeting frequency.
While staff have outlined recommendations below based on these conversations, any decisions
regarding the dissolution of a board or changes to meeting schedules remain at the discretion of
the City Council.
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEES
The City has three committees made up of Council Members. In addition to their regular meetings,
City Council members serve on these committees in order to provide staff with direction on
specific topics of interest.
Agenda Committee
The Agenda Committee is tasked with reviewing the City Manager's proposed City Council
agendas as to form and agenda content. The committee consists of the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem,
and the City Manager, and they meet the first Thursday of each month to review each month's
Council agendas and pending Council items. No changes to the Agenda Committee are
recommended at this time.
Committee on the Environment (COE)
The Committee on the Environment was created to review, discuss, deliberate, and consider
environmental issues and resources and make recommendations to the Council. They may also
deliberate and make recommendations regarding any other matter delegated to the Committee by
the Council. In 2024,Council directed that the committee should meet as needed,instead of having
a regular meeting schedule, as the committee has not had significant business to attend to. In 2025,
Council did not refer a matter to COE and the committee has met for two planned meetings, and
one additional meeting to complete the preceding meeting. Given that the environment is
integrated into other committee discussions, COE's limited meeting schedule and minimal
workload, Council may wish to consider dissolving the committee to better align resources with
active and impactful boards.
Community Partnership Committee (CPC)
The Community Partnership Committee was created in 2020, with the replacement of the Hotel
Occupancy Tax (HOT) and Sponsorship Committee for the purpose of monitoring allocation and
use of both the hotel occupancy tax and sponsorship funds, ensuring HOT funds are being used to
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directly enhance and promote tourism and hotel/convention industry, ensuring the sponsorship
funds are being used to further a charitable cause, economic or community growth and serve a
public purpose in the best interest of the general welfare of the City of Denton, recommend
organizations to receive funding to the City Council, and other duties as assigned by the City
Council. No changes are recommended at this time.
COUNCIL-RESIDENT HYBRID COMMITTEES (ADVISORY)
The City has seven committees consisting of both Council Members and residents. Each
committee has a different make up of members, but all are advisory and not required by state or
federal law.
Development Code Review Committee (DCRQ
The Development Code Review Committee was originally established by ordinance in 2018 as an
ad hoc advisory body tasked with recommending updates to the City's Development Code, which
had not been comprehensively revised since 2002. After completing its work and contributing to
the adoption of the 2019 Development Code, the committee was dissolved at the end of that year.
It was reestablished in October 2020 to assist with ongoing amendments and was designated a
standing committee in March 2021.
The committee is composed of six voting members, three City Council Members and three
Planning and Zoning Commissioners, both of which are bodies that ultimately approve
Development Code amendments.
Since its members already serve on the decision-making bodies responsible for code changes, its
ongoing role may be duplicative. Staff recommend that the committee either be dissolved entirely
or returned to ad hoc status. If retained in an ad hoc capacity, Council should consider specifying
that the committee only convene when formally directed to do so by the City Council for the
purpose of reviewing or advising on specific code amendments. This approach would ensure the
committee is activated purposefully and meets only when its input is needed,promoting efficiency
and reducing redundancy.
Discover Denton Advisory Board
The Discover Denton Advisory Board was established in 2025 to support the City's tourism and
convention efforts. Its purpose is to evaluate and recommend strategies that promote Denton as a
premier destination, enhance collaboration with tourism-related entities, encourage new visitor
attractions, and increase hotel/motel stays within the city.
The Discover Denton operations, including the oversight of the Discover Denton Advisory Board,
will transition to an independent organization in early 2026. No modifications to the board are
required.
Economic Development Partnership Board EDPB)
The Economic Development Partnership Board was established in 2003 to provide policy guidance
on economic development matters in partnership with the Denton Chamber of Commerce. Over
time, its membership has expanded to include representatives from Denton ISD, the Black
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Chamber of Commerce, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, among others. The board
currently includes 13 voting members with a wide range of qualifications, including Council
Members,business leaders, and representatives from local educational institutions.It also includes
three ex-officio members: the City Manager, the President of the Chamber, and the Denton ISD
Superintendent.
EDPB is the only committee with a separate nominating committee each time a vacancy occurs.
This additional step is not used by any other board or commission. To improve efficiency and
better align with the City's broader boards and commissions framework, staff recommend
eliminating the Nominating Committee process and utilizing the annual nominations process with
all other boards and commissions. Additionally, staff propose restructuring the board to reduce its
membership to seven, which is consistent with all other boards.
Downtown Economic Development Committee (DEDC)
The Downtown Economic Development Committee is a subcommittee of the Economic
Development Partnership Board, created to support economic development efforts specific to
Denton's downtown area. The committee is composed of 7 to 13 members, appointed by the
Economic Development Partnership Board. Members must be downtown business or property
owners, or representatives from adjacent community organizations such as the Denton Chamber
of Commerce, Denton County, Texas Woman's University, Greater Denton Arts Council, and the
Main Street Association.
Although the committee is scheduled to meet every other month, it frequently cancels meetings
due to a lack of substantive business. In 2025, for example, the committee met only three times,
despite being scheduled for six meetings. This pattern suggests that the committee's current
structure and meeting frequency may no longer be aligned with its workload or purpose.
As the only major subcommittee within the City's boards and commissions structure, the
Downtown Economic Development Committee is an outlier. Its scope overlaps significantly with
other entities, and staff anticipate bringing forward a proposal to establish a Main Street
Association Board under the City's purview. Should that board be created, it would likely serve a
similar purpose and include many of the same stakeholders, resulting in duplication of effort and
membership.
Staff recommend dissolving the Downtown Economic Development Committee and transitioning
its functions to the anticipated Main Street Board. This change would streamline engagement with
downtown stakeholders, eliminate redundancy, and provide a more focused and sustainable
structure for supporting downtown economic development.
If Council does not wish to eliminate the subcommittee, staff recommend reducing its membership
to seven to align with standard board composition practices and improve consistency across the
City's boards and commissions.
Mobility Committee
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The Mobility Committee was re-established in 2023 following the dissolution of the Traffic Safety
Commission.It is composed of three City Council Members and two resident members,nominated
by Council. The committee meets monthly and typically engages in lengthy discussions, often
lasting one to two hours. Its charge includes advising the City Council on traffic safety, bicycle
and pedestrian infrastructure, traffic control devices, and other mobility-related matters.
While the committee maintains a high volume of work and demonstrates strong engagement, staff
have noted that discussions occasionally drift into operational territory rather than remaining
focused on strategic advisement. To strengthen the committee's effectiveness and broaden its
impact, staff recommend restructuring its membership to include external partners such as Denton
ISD, Denton County, DCTA, and TxDOT. These entities are directly affected by the City's
mobility decisions and would bring valuable perspectives and expertise to the committee's work.
Transitioning to a partnership-based model would enhance regional coordination, improve
strategic alignment, and ensure the committee remains focused on high-level policy guidance.
If Council does not wish to restructure the committee, staff recommend reducing its membership
to three Council Members only, consistent with other Council committees. This would streamline
operations while maintaining the committee's advisory role.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ)No. 1
The Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 1 Committee was established in 2010 to oversee the
administration of the zone and guide its development. The committee is responsible for preparing
and adopting a project plan and financing plan for the zone, submitting those plans for formal
adoption, and monitoring their implementation. The committee plays a key role in ensuring that
tax increment financing is used effectively to support infrastructure improvements and economic
development within the designated area.
TIRZ 1 is composed of seven members, 5 members and 2 Council Members, and is scheduled to
meet every other month. The committee has maintained a consistent meeting schedule and
continues to fulfill its responsibilities without operational concerns. Staff report that the current
structure and cadence of the committee are appropriate for its scope and workload.
Additionally, if the Downtown Economic Development Committee is dissolved, staff recommend
that TIRZ 1 serve as the sole scoring body for the Downtown Reinvestment Grant. This grant is
exclusively available to businesses located within the TIRZ 1 and TIRZ IA boundaries, making
TIRZ 1 the most appropriate entity to evaluate and score applications.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ)No. 2
The Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) No. 2 Committee was established in 2012 with
responsibilities similar to those of TIRZ 1. The committee is charged with making
recommendations concerning the administration of the zone,preparing and adopting a project and
financing plan, submitting those plans for formal adoption, and monitoring their implementation.
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TIRZ 2 shares much of its membership structure with the Economic Development Partnership
Board, with the addition of two extra members. Meetings are held on an ad hoc basis, convening
only when there is relevant business to address.
Because the proposed modifications to the Economic Development Partnership Board would
directly affect the composition and structure of TIRZ 2, staff recommend revisiting the
membership and meeting schedule of this committee once Council has provided direction on the
broader board restructuring. Aligning TIRZ 2 with any approved changes will help ensure
consistency and operational efficiency across related bodies.
RESIDENT ADVISORY BOARDS
Airport Advisory Board
The Airport Advisory Board was established by resolution in 1969 and most recently modified in
2020. The board provides guidance to the City Council on a wide range of airport-related matters,
including safety, operations, infrastructure, land use, and long-term planning. It also plays a key
role in reviewing lease amendments and assignment fees prior to Council consideration and
supports public engagement efforts related to the Airport Business and Master Plans.
The board is composed of seven members, each nominated by a respective Council Member, and
serves two-year terms. It meets monthly,typically for about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes.
While meetings may occasionally be canceled due to a lack of action items, the board generally
meets as scheduled and has not experienced issues with quorum or member engagement.
Department staff report high satisfaction with the board's current structure, schedule, and level of
participation. The board is considered an effective and valuable resource in supporting the City's
airport operations and strategic planning.
Staff do not recommend any changes to the Airport Advisory Board at this time.
Animal Shelter Advisory Committee (ASAC)
The Animal Shelter Advisory Committee was established in accordance with the Texas Health and
Safety Code,which requires municipalities operating animal shelters to maintain an advisory body.
The committee must include at least one licensed veterinarian with a principal place of business
or residence in Denton, one City official, one employee of the Denton Animal Shelter, and one
representative of an animal welfare organization.
The committee currently meets bi-monthly (every other month), though it does not always have
timely or substantive business to address. State law requires the committee to meet at least three
times per year, and the current monthly schedule exceeds what is necessary to fulfill its statutory
obligations.
To better align the committee's meeting schedule with its workload and legal requirements, staff
recommend reducing the frequency of meetings from bi-monthly to quarterly. This adjustment
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would allow for more focused and strategic discussions while maintaining compliance with state
law.
Bond Oversight Committee
The Bond Oversight Committee was established to provide ongoing review and feedback on the
progress of voter-approved bond projects. The committee meets quarterly to evaluate
implementation,monitor timelines,and ensure transparency and accountability in the use of public
funds.
While the committee serves an important role in maintaining public trust and oversight, staff
recommend clarifying the qualifications for membership. Specifically, staff propose that future
nominations give preference to members who have previously served on a Citizen Bond
Committee. This would ensure that appointees have relevant experience and a foundational
understanding of the bond development and approval process.
This adjustment would strengthen the committee's ability to provide informed feedback and
maintain continuity between the planning and implementation phases of bond-funded initiatives.
Capital Improvements Advisory Committee (CIAC)
The Capital Improvements Advisory Committee was recently reestablished as a standalone
committee in accordance with new state law. Its primary purpose is to advise the City on matters
related to capital improvement planning and impact fees, ensuring compliance with statutory
requirements and supporting long-term infrastructure development.
Because the committee was only recently reestablished, staff do not yet have sufficient operational
data or feedback to recommend changes. As part of future boards and commissions reviews, staff
will evaluate the committee's structure, effectiveness, and alignment with its statutory
responsibilities and provide recommendations as needed.
Committee on Persons with Disabilities (COP)YD)
The Committee on Persons with Disabilities was established in 2018 to advise the City on
accessibility and accommodation across a range of projects and services. Its charge includes
providing input on ADA-compliant sidewalk and crosswalk improvements, park development,
signage enhancements, facility upgrades, and adaptive programming within Parks and Recreation.
The committee also played a key role in the development of the City's ADA Transition Plan,which
has since been adopted and is being implemented through multiple phases.
With many of the committee's original objectives now fulfilled and implementation efforts being
reviewed by an internal ADA Liaison Group, its ongoing role has become less defined. The
committee has also faced challenges in maintaining quorum and consistent engagement.
Staff recommend integrating the Committee on Persons with Disabilities into the existing ADA
Liaison Group, allowing for more direct collaboration between staff and committee members.
Under this model, the committee could convene with the ADA Liaison Group on a quarterly basis
to provide input on accessibility-related initiatives. The ADA Liaison Group would continue to
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meet separately from the committee on a monthly basis to ensure continuity of service and
feedback. This approach would preserve the committee's advisory function while improving
flexibility and operational efficiency.
Community Services Advisory Committee (CSAQ
The Community Services Advisory Committee was formed in 2021 through the consolidation of
the Community Development Advisory Committee and the Human Services Advisory Committee,
intended to streamline operations and unify the oversight of funding allocations across federal,
state, and local sources. The committee's primary function is to evaluate and recommend how
public resources should be distributed,using a structured allocation assessment process.
In early 2025, the committee's membership was reduced from eleven to seven. This adjustment
was made in response to persistent quorum challenges and to better align with the composition of
other city boards and commissions and has improved the committee's operational challenges.
The nature of the committee's work is inherently cyclical. Most of its activity occurs between
September and May, coinciding with the annual funding cycle. During this period, the committee
meets monthly and plays a critical role in reviewing applications, assessing community needs, and
making funding recommendations. Outside of this window, meetings are often canceled due to a
lack of actionable items.
Staff do not recommend any structural changes to the committee at this time. However, they do
suggest formalizing the meeting schedule to reflect the committee's natural rhythm. Specifically,
the recommendation is to continue monthly meetings during the active funding cycle (September
through May) and allow for ad hoc meetings during the remainder of the year as needed. This
approach would preserve the committee's flexibility while acknowledging the seasonal nature of
its responsibilities.
Denton Police Department Chief of Police Advisory Board
The Chief of Police Advisory Board was established in 2020 by ordinance to provide structured
community input on policing policies and practices in Denton. Its creation was part of a broader
effort to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust in law enforcement,particularly in
areas involving use of force, racial profiling, and officer wellness.
The board's responsibilities are extensive and include reviewing departmental policies and training
related to use of force—with a particular focus on de-escalation techniques—as well as evaluating
practices around biased-based policing. It also analyzes related data and trends and advises on
officer training and wellness initiatives. Additionally,the board serves as a conduit for community
engagement, offering feedback on how the department can better serve diverse populations,
including individuals with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Membership on the board is broad. It consists of 16 members, including:
• Seven residents, each nominated by a City Council Member.
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• Five professionals, appointed by the City Manager,representing law enforcement and city
administration.
• Up to five non-voting members, appointed by the Chief of Police, typically drawn from
institutions such as UNT, TWU, and Denton ISD.
Despite its initial momentum,the board has recently faced challenges in maintaining quorum, and
its role has become less defined since completing its original charge of reviewing the City's use
of force policies.With fewer policy updates required,the frequency and structure of meetings have
come under review.
Staff recommend reducing the board's meeting schedule from biannual to annual, with the
flexibility of convening additional meetings at the discretion of the City Council, City Manager,
or Chief of Police. This would allow for focused updates on data, trends, and any proposed policy
changes. Additionally, staff suggest evaluating the board's size and considering a reduction in
membership to improve efficiency and quorum attainment.
Library Board
The Library Board was established in 1984 to provide resident input and guidance on the operation
of the City of Denton's library system. Its purpose is to advise on policies,programs, and services
that support the library's mission and ensure it meets the evolving needs of the community.
The board is composed of seven members. The board meets monthly to discuss matters related to
library operations,programming, and strategic planning. The board plays a key role in shaping the
direction of library services, including recommendations on service and facility development,
resource allocation, and community engagement initiatives.
Staff report a high level of satisfaction with its current structure,member engagement,and meeting
schedule. The board has not experienced significant quorum issues and continues to function
effectively.
Staff do not recommend any changes to the Library Board at this time. Its consistent performance
and alignment with its original charge make it a model for other advisory bodies.
Parks, Recreation, and Beautification Board
The Parks, Recreation, and Beautification Board was established in 1999 to advise the City of
Denton on matters related to community appearance, beautification, and the development and
maintenance of parks and recreational facilities. Its scope includes recommendations on how to
enhance the visual environment of the city, particularly at its entrances, and how to foster public
engagement in beautification efforts.
The board is composed of seven members and meets monthly. According to staff feedback, the
board is functioning effectively, with consistent engagement and satisfaction regarding its current
operations. There are no reported issues with quorum or member participation.
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Staff do not recommend any changes to the Parks, Recreation, and Beautification Board at this
time. Its structure, meeting frequency, and contributions are aligned with its original mission and
continue to serve the community well.
Public Arts Committee
The Public Arts Committee was created to advise the City on matters related to public art,
including the commissioning, placement, and maintenance of artworks, as well as oversight of
cultural districts. The committee consists of nine members and meets bi-monthly. Over time, the
scope of the committee has become somewhat unclear, and members have occasionally proposed
artistic concepts that exceed the City's operational capacity or available resources.
Given these challenges, Council could consider phasing out the committee and approaching the
Greater Denton Arts Council(GDAC)about assuming a similar initiative.As GDAC is contracted
with the City,this transition could be explored as part of future contract discussions. Additionally,
GDAC is likely in a stronger position to facilitate community-driven art initiatives, given its
established infrastructure, professional expertise, and deep connections within the local arts
community.
This approach would allow the City to continue fostering public art in a more sustainable and
focused manner, while maintaining Council's ability to influence City art projects through bond
initiatives and the allocation of Hotel Occupancy Tax(HOT)funds,of which GDAC is a recipient.
Public Utilities Board(PUB)
The Public Utilities Board was originally created in 1976 and later modified in 1999 and 2006. It
is one of the few boards included in the City Charter, which gives it a formal and enduring role in
Denton's governance structure. The board is tasked with reviewing utility budgets and making
recommendations on a wide range of utility-related matters, including capital projects, rate
structures, and the issuance of utility bonds. It also has the authority to expend funds on public
information and advertising related to utilities. The board is composed of seven members, each
serving four-year terms, and it meets twice a month.
Staff are planning to implement minor operational modifications in the upcoming year to enhance
strategic alignment. Following these changes, staff recommend reviewing the board for any
additional areas of improvement. The board is required in the City Charter, so changes to its
structure or responsibilities would require a Charter amendment, a process that can only occur
once every two years and must be approved by voters.
Sustainability Framework Advisory Committee (SFAQ
The Sustainability Framework Advisory Committee was established in 2020 to advise the City
Council on the implementation of Denton's Sustainability Framework. In 2021, the Sustainability
Framework Fund was established with expenditures guided by an annual work plan recommended
by the Sustainability Framework Advisory Committee. The committee was envisioned as a
resident-led body to help guide the City's environmental and sustainability initiatives.
January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
While the committee is set for monthly meetings,it has struggled to maintain quorum over the past
several years. Currently,there are two vacancies that directly impact its ability to conduct business.
To address these challenges, staff recommend modifying the committee's set meeting schedule
from monthly to bi-monthly. This change would allow for more substantive discussions while still
supporting the committee's annual work plan recommendation. Special-called meetings to address
demands will be used as needed. Additionally, if Council determines that the committee is no
longer the most effective structure for this work, staff suggest considering the formation of an
annual taskforce or working group to maintain the City's commitments to sustainability and ensure
continued work plan review for the Sustainability Framework Fund.
QUASI-JUDICIAL BOARDS
The City operates six quasi-judicial boards that are required by state law and/or the City's Charter.
Each quasi-judicial board holds decision-making authority within its designated scope.
Board of Ethics (BOE)
The Board of Ethics was established in 2018 by ordinance to enforce the City's Ethics Ordinance.
Its responsibilities include reviewing complaints related to ethical conduct, issuing and enforcing
limited subpoenas to compel testimony or document production, and making recommendations to
the City Council on amendments to the ordinance.
The board is composed of seven members, each nominated by a respective Council Member, and
serves two-year staggered terms. Meetings are held monthly, though the frequency of business
varies depending on the volume of complaints or ordinance-related matters. When not actively
reviewing complaints or proposed amendments, the board's workload can be minimal.
Given the inconsistent flow of business, staff recommend modifying the meeting schedule from
monthly to bi-monthly or quarterly. This adjustment would better align the board's meeting
frequency with its actual workload while preserving its ability to respond promptly when needed.
Civil Service Commission
The Civil Service Commission was established pursuant to Chapter 143 of the Texas Local
Government Code, which governs civil service systems for police and fire departments in
participating municipalities. Chapter 143 requires the maintenance of a Civil Service Commission
to administer and oversee statutory civil service process.
The Commission is responsible for approving hiring and promotional eligibility lists, hearing
appeals related to disciplinary actions, reviewing promotional exam challenges, and adjudicating
other matters expressly authorized under Chapter 143. The Commission functions as a quasi-
judicial body and its authority is limited to matters defined by state law.
The commission is composed of three members, selected by the City Manager and appointed by
the City Council, each serving staggered three-year terms. Meetings are generally scheduled
monthly but may be canceled during periods when no agenda items are pending. Regular meetings
January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
typically last under an hour, while appeal hearings can extend several hours depending on the
complexity of the case.
Staff report a high level of satisfaction with the Commission's current structure, meeting cadence,
and member engagement. The Commission is operating effectively and fulfills a legally required
role under state law.
No structural or governance modifications are recommended, as the Commission's existence,
composition, and core responsibilities are prescribed by Chapter 143 of the Texas Local
Government Code.
Health and Building Standards Commission (HABSCO)
The Health and Building Standards Commission was originally created in 1999 as the Construction
Advisory and Appeals Board and was renamed in 2010. It is one of the few boards required by the
City Charter, giving it a formal and legally mandated role in the City's governance.
The commission is composed of nine members, seven voting members and two alternates. To the
extent that persons are available within the city, the commission shall consist of one (1) general
contractor,one(1)architect or engineer,one(1)person from the plumbing industry,one(1)person
from the electrical industry, two (2) individuals who are associated with the construction,
development or real estate industry, and an additional member.
The commission is tasked with hearing appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by
the Building Official, Code Official, or Fire Marshal. These appeals can range from building code
interpretations to enforcement actions, making the commission's work highly technical and case-
driven.
Currently, HABSCO meets monthly, although meetings are sometimes canceled due to a lack of
active appeals or cases. Based on recent trends, staff report that a bi-monthly schedule would still
allow the commission to fulfill its responsibilities in a timely manner while reducing unnecessary
meetings.
Historic Landmark Commission(HLC)
The Historic Landmark Commission was established in 1980 and updated most recently in 2022
to align with the requirements of the National Park Service's Certified Local Government (CLG)
program, administered by the Texas Historical Commission. Participation in the CLG program
enables the City to receive federal and state funding for historic preservation efforts.
As part of the CLG requirements,at least five members of the commission must meet professional
qualifications in fields such as:
• Architecture
• History
• Architectural History
• Planning
January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
• Archaeology
• Folklore
• Cultural Anthropology
• Curation
• Conservation
• Landscape Architecture
While these qualifications were formally adopted in 2022,the City has faced challenges verifying
that existing members meet the required standards—particularly for long-serving members whose
qualifications may not be clearly documented. To address this, staff have implemented a 500-word
summary requirement for new applicants to describe how their education and experience align
with the CLG criteria.
The commission consists of seven members meeting monthly to review matters related to historic
preservation, including landmark designations and alterations to historic properties.
No structural changes are recommended at this time, though staff will continue to monitor
compliance with CLG requirements and ensure that future appointments meet the necessary
qualifications.
Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z)
The Planning and Zoning Commission was created in 1976 and updated in 1999 and 2006.It serves
as one of the City's primary quasi-judicial bodies,responsible for reviewing and making decisions
or recommendations on a wide range of development-related matters. These include:
• The Comprehensive Plan
• The Development Code
• Zoning regulations and changes
• Platting
• Long-range planning
• Other development policies as required by state law or City Council policy
The commission is composed of seven resident members and meets biweekly, holding both work
sessions and regular meetings. Given the volume and complexity of development activity in
Denton, the commission maintains a consistent and active schedule.
Staff report that the commission is functioning effectively and that its current structure and meeting
frequency are appropriate for the scope of its responsibilities.
No modifications are recommended for the Planning and Zoning Commission at this time.
Zoning Board of Adjustment(ZBA)
The Zoning Board of Adjustment was established in 1969 to provide a formal avenue for residents
to appeal zoning decisions and Development Code interpretations made by the Director. The board
also considers requests for variances from the City's zoning and sign regulations and makes final
decisions regarding the reestablishment or termination of nonconforming uses within the city.
January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
As a quasi-judicial body, the ZBA plays a critical role in ensuring that zoning regulations are
applied fairly and that exceptions are granted only when justified by unique circumstances. The
board meets monthly, although meetings are sometimes canceled due to a lack of cases and lack
of quorum. Based on recent trends, staff report that a bi-monthly or quarterly meeting schedule
would still allow the commission to fulfill its responsibilities in a timely manner while reducing
unnecessary meetings.
NEW BOARD ANTICPATED IN 2026
Main Street Board
With the dissolution of the Main Street Association, its responsibilities are currently being
transitioned between the City of Denton and the Downtown Denton Foundation. As part of this
transition, the Main Street Association Board will dissolve, and a new committee will be created
as the Main Street Board, which will be managed directly by the City.
One of the key drivers behind this change, and the broader consolidation of both the DEDC and
the Main Street Association Board,is the City's contractual relationship with Main Street America
and the Texas Main Street Program. These contracts are held by the City, not by the nonprofit
entities.
When the Main Street Manager position was moved under City management, Denton became
contractually obligated to establish and maintain a Main Street City Board. This restructuring
ensures compliance with program requirements and aligns oversight with the City's operational
responsibilities.
With the creation of the Main Street Board and the dissolution of the Downtown Economic
Development Committee (DEDC), downtown stakeholders will experience a slight transition in
structure. However, they will continue to be represented and have a seat at the table through the
new board framework. This change is designed to maintain strong engagement while aligning with
the City's contractual obligations and streamlining downtown development efforts.
SUMMARY:
The City of Denton conducted a comprehensive review of its 27 boards and commissions to
address challenges related to inconsistent term cycles, quorum issues, and inefficiencies in
recruitment and nomination processes. The report recommends standardizing term dates,
streamlining application and nomination cycles, and leveraging existing software tools to improve
transparency and operational efficiency. Key proposals include:
• Standardizing Terms:Align all board and commission terms to a uniform cycle(September
1—August 31)with renewals based on even/odd Council places.
• Recruitment & Nomination: Shift from year-round applications to a defined annual cycle
(May 15—July 15), followed by an August nomination period.
• Software Utilization: Fully implement Granicus features for application packets and
attendance tracking.
January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
• Membership Qualifications: Require resumes and a 500-word essay for boards with
specialized qualifications.
• Structural Changes: Dissolve or restructure certain committees to reduce redundancy,
improve efficiency, and align with workload.
• Meeting Frequency Adjustments: Modify schedules for boards with minimal business to
better match operational needs.
• New Board Creation: Establish a Main Street Board in 2026 to comply with contractual
obligations and streamline downtown development efforts.
These changes aim to enhance consistency, transparency, and engagement while reducing
administrative burdens.
Proposed Changes by Board/Committee
Board/Committee Proposed Change
Agenda Committee No changes recommended.
Committee on the Environment(COE) Consider dissolution due to minimal workload and
overlapping responsibilities.
Community Partnership Committee CPC No changes recommended.
Development Code Review Committee Dissolve or return to ad hoc status; convene only
when directed by Council.
Discover Denton Advisory Board No changes at this time (transition out of City in
early 2026).
Economic Development Partnership Eliminate nominating committee; reduce
Board EDPB membership to 7.
Downtown Economic Development Dissolve and transition functions to new Main
Committee DEDC) Street Board; if retained, reduce membership to 7.
Mobility Committee Restructure to include external partners (Denton
ISD, Denton County, DCTA, TxDOT); if not,
reduce to 3 Council Members only.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) No structural changes; assume scoring
No. 1 responsibility for Downtown Reinvestment Grant
if DEDC dissolved.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) Revisit membership and meeting schedule after
No. 2 EDPB restructuring.
Airport Advisory Board No changes recommended.
Animal Shelter Advisory Committee Reduce meeting frequency from monthly to
quarterly.
Bond Oversight Committee Clarify qualifications: future members should have
prior Citizen Bond Committee experience.
Capital Improvements Advisory No changes at this time (recently reestablished).
Committee CIAC
Committee on Persons with Disabilities Integrate into ADA Liaison Group; meet quarterly
COPWD with liaison group.
January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
Community Services Advisory Committee Formalize meeting schedule: monthly Sept—May;
CSAC ad hoc remainder of year.
Chief of Police Advisory Board Reduce meeting frequency from biannual to
annual; consider reducing membership size.
Library Board No changes recommended.
Parks, Recreation, and Beautification No changes recommended.
Board
Public Arts Committee Consider phasing out and transferring
responsibilities to Greater Denton Arts Council.
Public Utilities Board PUB No changes recommended(City Charter board).
Sustainability Framework Advisory Reduce meeting frequency from monthly to bi-
Committee (SFAC) monthly; consider annual taskforce if quorum
issues persist.
Board of Ethics (BOE) Reduce meeting frequency from monthly to bi-
monthly or quarterly.
Civil Service Commission No changes recommended state law requirement).
Health and Building Standards Reduce meeting frequency from monthly to bi-
Commission HABSCO monthly
Historic Landmark Commission(HLC) No structural changes; continue enforcing
qualification compliance.
Planning and Zoning Commission P&Z No changes recommended.
Zoning Board of Adjustment(ZBA) Reduce meeting frequency from monthly to bi-
monthly
Main Street Board (New) Establish new City-managed board to replace
Main Street Association Board.
NEXT STEPS:
To advance the proposed recommendations, staff recommend forwarding this pitch to the Agenda
Committee for consideration and placement on an upcoming City Council Work Session calendar.
This will provide Council Members with an opportunity to review the proposed changes, discuss
potential impacts, and provide formal direction on the future structure and processes of the City's
boards and commissions.
ATTACHMENTS:
• Exhibit 1 —Boards and Commissions Summary Spreadsheet
• Exhibit 2—Peer City Comparison Spreadsheet
STAFF CONTACT:
Kristi Fogle
Chief of Staff
City Manager's Office
kristi.fogle gcityofdenton.com
Ingrid Rex
City Secretary
January 16,2026 Report No. 2026-016
City Secretary's Office
in rig d.rexga,cityofdenton.com
REWESTOR: Council Member Jill Jester
STAFF TIME TO COMPLETE REPORT: 120 hours
PARTICIPANTS: All Departments
Name Ex Officio Type Description Composition Member Size Enacting Legislation(Including amendments Term Term Limit Member Minimum Member Make-up Special Qualifications: Frequency of Quorum
Members(non- thereto,as applicable): Length mtgs Issues
voting)
Agenda Committee None Advisory Reviews the City Manager's proposed City Council Council 3 Ordinance2016-197 1Years 0 Councilmember Mayor,Mayor Pro Tem,City Manager None Monthly No
agendas as to form and agenda content.
Airport Advisory Board None Advisory Advises on matters relative to airport safety,flight and Resident 7 Resolution adopted September June 24,1969 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None;but should not be a lease holder or have business at/with the airport Monthly
ground operations,safety and security issues arising from (resolutions not numerically numbered at that resident;no debt owed (unless mtg
the creation and development of long-term master plans time);Ordinance Nos.87-112,97-299,and to City canc.by
tenant/stakeholder outreach the Airport Business Plan and 2011-055;further referenced in Ordinance No. Chair after
the Airport Master Plan airport infrastructure improvement 20-240;§3-2 of the Denton Code of consult.W.
or other major projects impacting the airport grant funding Ordinances.Ordinance 21-2122(repeals and City Mgr)
for the airport and long-term financial planning and replaces previous Chapter 3,removes all
budgetary issues affecting the airport. reference to Council Airport Committee)
Animal Shelter Advisory None Advisory Assists the City in complying with the provisions of the Resident 7 Ordinance Nos.89-1115,96-166,2000-460 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Members with 3 residents and 4fulfiRing *I licensed vet.with principal business address or personal residence in City of Denton; Quarterly No
Committee Animal Shelter Act and makes recommendations and 2006-330;Ord.24-730(*replaces resident;no debt owed a specific qualification *1 City official;*1 City of Denton Animal Shelter employee;*1 Rep of animal welfare
regarding methods and procedures necessary to ensure chapter 6 entirely);§6-6 of the Denton Code of to City organization
compliance with the Act. Ordinances;§823.005 of the Texas Health&
Safety Code
Board of Ethics None Quasi- Enforces the Ethics Ordinance,issues and enforces Resident 7 Ordinance Nos.18-757 and 18-1043;Ord 22- 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Monthly No
Judicial limited subpoenas to compel attendance of witnesses and 1245,then Ord 23-1165(chapter 2 repealed& resident;no debt owed
the production of testimony,evidence,and/or documents replaced entirely);Ord 23-2251(Section 2- to City
as is reasonably relevant to complaints regarding violation 277 replaced);Ord 23-2324(changed to
of the ethics ordinance.Makes recommendations on "Rules of Procedure"in Ch.2,Article XI,
amendments to the ordinance. Section 2-277(k)-removing references to Alt.
members).§2-277 of the Denton Code of
Ordinances
Bond Oversight Committee None Advisory Serves to ensure efficiency,equity,timeliness,and Resident 7 Resolution 19-2886;Resolution 21-1507 6 Years N/A 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Quarterly Yes
(Ad Hoc) accountability in the implementation of the City'svoter (changes to manner in which members are resident;no debt owed
approved General Obligation(GO)bond program; appointed) to City
monitors the City's plans relating to the issuance of bonds
and the implementation of projects approved in bond
election,includingthe annual appropriation of bond
funds,and any changes in the amount of bond funds
issues or cash commitments made,assess current City
facilities and needs,prioritize proposals,and make
recommendations to the City Council.
Capital Improvements None Advisory Advises and assists the City Council in adapting land use Resident 8 Ordinance 25-1955(adopted 11/18/2025) 4Years 2 terms 2 year Denton resident; 8 members:7 Council appointed,I rep At least 50%of 7 members to be representatives of the real estate,development,or As Needed
Advisory Committee AFTER (Ad Hoc) assumptions;reviews the capital improvements plan and repealed Ord 2015-109&Ord 2018-411 21 years of age or older from ETJ building industries who are not employees or officials of apolitical subdivision or
9/1/25 files written comments;monitors and evaluates goernmental entity,&1 member a resident&representative from the extraterritorial
implementation of the capital improvements plan;files jurisdiction(ETJ)of the City of Denton
semiannual reports with respect to the progress of the
capital improvements plan and reports to the City Council
any perceived inequities in implementing the plan or
imposing the impact fee;and advises the City Council of
the need to update or revise the land use assumptions,
capital improvements plan,and impactfee.
Civil Service Commission None Quasi- QUASI-JUDICIAL Resident 3 Chapter 143 ofthe Texas Local Government 3Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 3 Citizen voting members None As Needed
Judicial Ensures compliance with Chapter 143 ofthe Texas Local Code resident;no debt owed
Government Code governing police and fire,approves to City
eligibility hiring lists and holds hearings,upon appeal,on
matters of promotions,performance,reclassifications,
and other civil service issues.
Name Ex Officio Type Description Composition Member Size Enacting Legislation(Including amendments Term Term Limit Member Minimum Member Make-up Special Qualifications: Frequency of Quorum
Members(non- thereto,as applicable): Length mtgs Issues
voting)
Committee on Persons with None Advisory Advises the City in those areas of committee interest, Resident 7 Resolution R2007-030,was repealed by 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Every other
Disabilities including but not limited to,disability concerns such as Resolution 18-1741 resident;no debt owed month
accessibility and accommodations for City project and to City
activities.Some of the specific projects may include the
following:(a)construction of new sidewalks,ramps,and
crosswalk features;(b)replacing and repairing existing
sidewalks,ramps,and crosswalk features;(c)the creation
of an ADA Transition Plan;(d)the planning and
development of an adaptive/handicap accessible park;(e)
providing guidance on incorporating new or enhanced
signage at the City facilities;(f)advise on improvements
for new and existing city facilities;(g)providing input on
parking lot rehabilitation projects;(h)providing input for
improving City operations(i)providing input for improving
the operation of other entities;and(j)providing input on
Parks and Recreation adaptive activities.
Committee on the Advisory Reviews,discusses,deliberates,and considers Council 3 Resolution R2009-015 1Years Remains until Council member 3 currently sitting Council Members None As needed Yes
Environment environmental issues and resources and makes replaced,or no
recommendations to the City Council.Also deliberates longer serving on
and make recommendations regarding any other matter Council
delegated to the Committee by the City Council.
Community Partnership Advisory Monitors allocation and use of both the hotel occupancy Council 3 Resolution R2009-015;Resolution R38-1710; 1Years Remains until Council member 3 currently sitting Council Members None Monthly No
Committee tax and sponsorship funds,ensuring HOTfunds are being Resolution 20-1471 replaced,or no
used to directly enhance and promote tourism and longer serving on
hotel/convention industry,ensuring the sponsorship funds Council
are being used to further a charitable cause,economic or
community growth and serve a public purpose in the best
interest of the general welfare of the City of Denton.
Recommends organizations to receive funding to the City
Council.
Community Services Advisory Advises the City Council on programs,services,and use of Resident 7 Resolution 21-979;Resolution 25-194 2 Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Monthly Yes-in July&
Advisory Committee public resources to address complex social problems reduced size of board members 7 resident;no debt owed Aug
such as economic instability,housing,homelessness, to City
and meeting community service needs.
Denton Police Department The Chief of Advisory Assists with review,gathering of community input,and Residents, 11(vote)+5 Ordinance No.24-007;Ordinance No.20- 3Years 2 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members(Council- *CANNOT be a City of Denton employee;*CANNOT be an elected office for the City of Per Ord 24- Yes
Chief of Police Advisory Police may,at establishing clearfindings,conclusions and achievable staff,advisors 2085;23-177 of the Denton Cade of resident;no debt owed selected);4voting members appntd by City Denton;*CANNOT have served as a City Officialtwo years priorto their date of appt.to 007,at least
Board his discretion, recommendations that promote the use of best practices Ordinances to City;agree to submit Mgr as follows:1 Denton PD officer;1 the board;*CANNOT have served on the Denton City Council in the past two years;* twice peryear
appoint up to five in the use-of-force policies and training for the Denton to a criminal Denton Police Officers Association CANNOT currently be employed by or a retired employee of a law enforcement agency and more
(5)non-voting Police Department. background check member;1 Denton Municipal Police Assoc. (local,county,state,tribal,orfederal)or have an immediate family member currently often if
members from member;1 member from City Mgr's Office. employed by a law enforcement agency;*CANNOT have pending litigation against the needed.
other City of Denton or any of its employees,nor anyfinancial interest in pending litigation
organizations, against the City;*CANNOT have a felony conviction or one pending;*CANNOT have
such as the UNT, Class A or B misdemenor convictions in the last 5 years,or any pending;*MUST sign a
TWU,and DISD confidentiality agreementto not disclose confidential information privyto as a board
memberto anyone otherthan other board members or authorized persons on the
Advisory Board,a violation of which is cause for removal from the board and possible
criminal prosecution;*MUST agree to attend required training and board meetings either
in person or through electronic medium.
Development Code Review None Advisory The Development Code Review Committee is hereby Hybrid 3Council+3 Ordinance 21-647 enacted April 6,2021 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 6 voting members:3 City Councilmembers As
Committee established as a standing City Committee to review P&Z resident;no debt owed and 3 Planning and Zoning Commissioners needed/cane
proposed Denton Development Code amendments and to City d by
make recommendations to the Planning and Zoning Council/City
Commission and the City Council regarding proposed Mgr.
Denton Development Code amendments. (currently2X/
month)
Name Ex Officio Type Description Composition Member Size Enacting Legislation(Including amendments Term Term Limit Member Minimum Member Make-up Special Qualifications: Frequency of Quorum
Members(non- thereto,as applicable): Length mtgs Issues
voting)
Discover Denton Advisory Yes-6 Advisory Discover Denton Advisory Board created to monitor, Residents 13voting Resolution 25-191,approved Feb 18,2025 1 Year 18 years old;but not 13voting members+6 nonvoting ex-officio The 13voting members must include:3 HoteUMotel Owners or General Managers,2
Board evaluate,report&make recommendations on the members+6 required to be Denton members(Mayor of Denton ortheir EntertainmentNenues/Restaurants,2 Attractions/Events,1 Denton Convention Center,1
resources needed to pursue,secure,and promote ex-officio(to voters or residents designee,City Manager ortheir designee, Higher Education,1 Greater Denton Arts Council,and 1 Transportation,and 2 City
conventions&tourism to the city,foster cooperative include Mayor Denton Chamber of Commerce Board of CounciL Members.
efforts with tourism-related entities,to encourage the &City Directors Chair,President of the Denton
establishment of additional visitor attractions,review Manager) Chamber of Commerce,the Denton
advertising programs encouraging visitors to the City, Chamber of Commerce Director of
provide recommentations that display Denton as a Strategic Partnership,and the Downtown
premier destination,&generate maximum hoteUmotel Development/Main Street Coordinator.
stays in Denton
Economic Development City Manager,or Advisory Provides economic development policy guidance and Hybrid 2 Council+10 Resolution 22-1672;Ordinance 2017-203; 2Years 3 18 years old;no debt 2 Council Members;2 members of Denton *I member with knowledge/experience in general aviation-related matters&no financial Monthly No
Partnership Board his designee; makes recommendations to the City Council and +2 Ex-Officio+§2.251 of the Denton Code of Ordinances owed to City;members Chamber of Commerce;2 members interest in matters at the Airport;*1 member with specific knowledge skills and abilities
Denton Chamber Chamber of Commerce;reviews,considers and makes Ad hoc ex- must live or work in the associated with a top twenty City of Denton to assist in all or any one of the functions&responsibiLities of the EDP Board
President;and recommendations to the City Council regarding Airport officio(City City of Denton,except ad valorem or sales tax payer;1 member
Superintendent Branding and Marketing to support the implementation of Mgr,Chamber ex-officio members nominated by Denton Black Chamber of
of Denton the Denton Airport Business Plan;reviews,considers and president, Commerce;I member nominated by
Independent makes recommendations to the City Council regarding DISDSuper) Denton Hispanic Chamber of Commerce;
School District Denton MunicipaL Airport incentive policies as assigned by the President or designated UNT
the City Council or requested by the City Manager;and faculty/staff(Ex-officio member);the TWU
acts as a recommending body to the City Council for President or designated TWU faculty/staff
specific airport economic development incentives as (Ex-officio member)
assigned by the City Council or requested by the City
Manager and permitted by City and State law.
Health&Building Standards City Building Quasi- Hears and decides appeals of orders,decisions or Residents 7+2Alt. Ordinance Nos.99-098 and 2010-133;§2-261 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 6 specialized members,1 additionaL 1 general contractor;1 architect or engineer;1 person from plumbing industry;1 person Monthly No
Commission Official Judicial determinations made bythe Building Official,Code of the Denton Code of Ordinances resident;no debt owed member,2 Alt.members from electrical industry;2 associated with the construction,development,or real estate
Official,or Fire Marshal relative to the application and to City industry;1 additional member
interpretation of the requirements of the Code of
Ordinances and alL other applicable codes of/adopted by
the City of Denton.Members are appointed by City
Council for a term of 2years commencing JuLy 1st of the
year appointed.
Historic Landmark Director of Quasi- Makes recommendations on those buildings,structures, Residents 7 Ordinance No.80-030;§35.4.3 of the Denton 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 5 specialized members+2 additional 5 members(either in qualification,profession or membership)representing 1 of each of Monthly
Commission Planning;City Judicial sites,districts,and areas in the citythat the Commission Development Code;Ordinance No.22-286 resident;no debt owed members the foLLowing:Architecture,Architectural History,PLanning,Prehistoric and Historic
Building Official; has determined should be preserved and designated as to City Archaeology,Folklore,Cultural Anthropology,Curation,Conservation,Landscape
and Chairman of historic landmarks.The Commission also regulates design Architecture.
the County review for designated properties and districts.
Historical
Commission
Library Board None Advisory Makes recommendations on operating policies and Residents 7 Ordinance 84-162;§2-176 of the Denton Cade 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Monthly
programs for the operation of the City's Library system. of Ordinances resident;no debt owed
to City
Mobility Committee None Advisory The Mobility Committee provides information,advice,and Hybrid 3Council+2 1/9/2024 Ordinance 23-2465 establishing 2Years Resident members 18 yrs old;Denton Two Denton residents,appointed by the none Monthly
makes recommendations to City Council on traffic safety, Mobility Advisory Committee,dissolving serve at pleausure of resident;no debt owed City Council,and 3 City Council Members
education,and publicity;ways and means of improving Resolution R2009-015 Mobility Committee the Council,until to City
traffic conditions,safety for motor vehicles,improving replaced;Council
bicycle and pedestrian safety,implementation of traffic Members must be
control devices,or other matters assigned to the Mobility currently serving.
Committee.
Parks,Recreation& None Advisory Makes recommendations on issues related to community Residents 7 Ordinance Nos.99-219;2000-436;2006-105; 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Monthly Yes
Beautification Board appearance,beautification,and the environment of the 2013-207;2019-1156;Chapter 22 repealed resident;no debt owed
City and the entrances into the City.Charged with entirely by Ord 2022-2070;§11.02 of the to City
stimulating public interest in the development and Denton City Charter
maintenance of parks and playgrounds and a well-rounded
community-wide program that promotes close
cooperation between the City and citizens so that all park
and recreational facilities are used to their maximum
benefit.
Planning&Zoning None Quasi- Makes decisions or recommendations regarding the Residents 7 Ordinances Nos.76-12,99-057,and 2006- 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Twice per No
Commission JudiciaL Comprehensive Plan,Development Code,zoning 232;§10.02 of the City Charter;also resident;no debt owed month
regulations,Long-range planning,zoning changes,platting, referenced in§2.3.3 of the Denton to City
and other development-related policies as required or Development Code.
permitted by State Law or Council policy.
Name Ex Officio Type Description Composition Member Size Enacting Legislation(Including amendments Term Term Limit Member Minimum Member Make-up Special Qualifications: Frequency of Quorum
Members(non- thereto,as applicable): Length mtgs Issues
voting)
Public Art Committee Parks&Rec Advisory Makes recommendations on the commissioning, Residents 9 Ordinance Nos.2006-305,2013-207,2019- 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 2 GDAC(CC appointed),1 GDAC Ex- None Every other
Director,Ec. placement,and installation of public art implementation 1156 and Ordinance 2022-2070;§22-6 of the resident;no debt owed officio);7 residents month
Develop. of funding mechanism(s)for public art effective and Denton Code of Ordinances to City
Director,Greater efficient management of public art ongoing maintenance
Denton Arts of public art and the accessioning,deaccessioning,re-
Council Exec. siting of public art and oversight of cultural districts.
Director
Public Utilities Board City Manager and Advisory Reviews the department of utilities budget and makes Residents 7 Ordinance Nos.76-12,99-057,and 2006-232; 4Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members None Twice per No
Director of recommendations in the format required by the City §12.07 of the City Charter resident;no debt owed month
Utilities Manager.The Board is authorized to expend funds for to City
information and advertising.All matters relatingto utility
policies,capital projects,rates,and the sale and issuance
of utility bonds are submitted to the Board for review and
recommendation prior to Council consideration.
Members are appointed by City CouncRfor a term of 4
years commencing September 1st of theyear appointed.
Sustainability Framework None Advisory The charge forthe Sustainability Framework Advisory Residents 7 Resolution No.20-2575 2 Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members Membership 1.Academic,professional,occupational,volunteer knowledge and/or Monthly
Advisory Committee Committee shall be to advise the City Council on the resident;no debt owed experience in one or more of the following areas setforth in the Sustainability Framework:
implementation of,and matters related to,the City's to City air quality;water;energy;transportation;resiliency;education;solid waste;land use.
Sustainability Framework.
Tax Increment None Advisory Makes recommendations concerningthe administration of Hybrid 7+2Council Ordinance No.2010-316;Ordinance 2011- 2Years 3 18 yrs old;no debt owed 5 Citizen voting members+2 Council 2 Members must be residents or property owners in Zone 1;2 members must be business Everyother
Reinvestment Zone Number the Zone;prepares and adopts a project plan and TIRZ members 127TIRZ 1 bylaws;§311.009 of the Tax to City Members owners in Zone 1 or a member of Denton Chamber of Commerce month
One Board financing plan for the Zone,submits the plans forformal Increment Financing Act
adoption,and implements and monitors the project and
financing plan.
Tax Increment None Advisory Makes recommendations on the administration of the Hybrid 15 Ordinance Nos.2012-366,2014-039,2014- 2Years 3 18 yrs old;no debt owed Same as Economic Development None At least once
Reinvestment Zone Number Zone;prepares and adopts a project plan and TIRZ 274,2015-370,2016-354 and 20-441;Ord.20- to City;resident or Partnership Board+2 a year
Two Board financing plan for the Zone,submits the plans for formal 440 TIRZ 1 bylaws;and§311.009 of the Tax working in the zone
adoption,and implements and monitors the project and Increment Financing Act
financing plan.
Zoning Board of Adjustment None Quasi- Provides a vehicle for citizens to appeal zoning Residents 10 Ordinance Nos.69-1,94-078,99-218,and 2Years 3 18 yrs old;Denton 7 Citizen voting members+3Alt.non- None Monthly Yes
Judicial interpretations and decisions of the Building Official,and Ordinance DCA22-0002d;§10.07 of the City resident;no debt owed voting members
request variances from the zoning and sign regulations in Charter;also referenced in§2.3.4 of the to City
the Denton Development Code.The Board may also make Denton Development Code.
final decisions regarding changes,the reestablishment,or
termination of nonconforming uses within the city.
EXHIBIT 2- CITY COMPARISON
CITY POPULATION TOTAL PROCESS TO APPOINT BOARD MEMBERS
BOARDS
Arlington 403,672 13 2 Big appointments twice in the year.Apps sent to councl members to review.They submit their nominations to"Mayor and Council Office"who handle B&C nominations.They vote'in
bulk'at a Council meeting.Their process is similar to ours in that nominations are made by each council member to various boards. Some of their boards have different terms and
end/start dates.
Plano 293,286 23 Most of the City of Plano's standing board,commission,and committee appointments are made during the annual process(July through Sept.).Applications may be submitted at anytime
and will be considered should openings occur during the year.In addition to boards and commissions,the City Council may,from time to time,appoint short-term committees for special
purposes.All Council appointed board,commission,and committee members adhere to a Code of Conduct.All appointments are made at the discretion of the City Council.In general,it
is the Council's policy to appoint persons to a maximum of two terms on any board,commission or committee.Members who do not maintain at least 75%attendance of regular meetings
may be removed from office.
Frisco 235,208 14 The City of Frisco accepts online applications for Boards/Commissions annually during the month of July.Term dates begin October 1st and regular attendance is expected.All terms are
for two(2)years unless indicated otherwise.City Council will appoint members to the various Boards/Commissions at the second City Council meeting in September.All applications
received but not appointed are kept until June the following year and used as the pool of candidates should any unexpected vacancies occur throughout the year.
McKinney 227,526 22 Applications are valid for 1 year,or until the application deadline date(3rd Friday in June).Council considers applicants stated board preference,but may appoint applicants to any board.
On or before June 30th,the City Council sets dates and times for candidate interviews,which are held in an open public meeting with a posted agenda.(Discussion can be held in closed
for certain boards).Board liaisons can attend and can submit their list of preferred nominees from the applicants/interviewees prior to the Special Council Meeting at which appointments
are made.After the interview process,the Council considers the recommendations and nomination lists for eligible applicants on the 4th Tuesday of August.The City Council makes
appointments through an open preference procedure wherein each Council Member's preferences are openly registered prior to the presiding officer's acceptance of any motion for
approval of an appointee for an unfilled position.The Council may meet in a WS prior to the Special Council meeting to appoint members to discuss preferencing nominations.
Appointments are effective from October 1(unless to fill a vacancy),and terms are 2 years for most boards.
Denton 165,998 27 Currently,CSO sends applications to each Council Member at least quarterly,with a report of vacancies needing their nomination from the pool of applications submitted.As a
nomination is received,the applicant is vetted by CSO and,once cleared,is placed on an agenda as an individual item on Consent Agenda for considation and appointment by Council.If
contested,nominations are discussed on IC agenda.
Lewisville 135,983 21 The mayor proposes 3 two-person council review teams,approved by council who are assigned one-third of all board applications(sent by CSO to each team). Each team reviews their
assigned boards applications,conducts interviews,and submits recommendations to CSO to compile into a final list,which is placed on a council agenda for board appointments.
Appointees&reappointees are invited to the next council meeting to be sworn in.Marketing promotes the application period via City website,social media,&outreach to churches&
organizations for a diverse applicant pool.
Carrollton 135,456 11 City Council discusses appointments in an October work session.For some boards and commissions,they may require interviews of potential candidates.If selected for an interview,
candidates are contacted to schedule a time.Council makes appointments to Boards and Commissions during the October meetings.Selected applicants are notified in early November
and will begin their term in November.Applications are considered for vacancies and other opportunities that arise during the year.Applications to be appointed during the two year cycle
are accepted from January 1 online.
Round Rock 135,359 8 The Council reviews the memberships of boards and commissions each year and makes appointments to them annually.Applications are accepted annually from June 1 to July 1.Outside
of this period,applications are only accepted if vacancies arise duringthe year.Notices for such openings are posted on the city's website with information on how to apply.Terms on city
boards and commissions are two(2)years and terms are staggered.No member may serve more than 8 consecutive years on any one board or commission.Appointments for expiring
terms are made at the first City Council meeting in August of each year.New members take their seats at the first board/commission meetingthat occurs after September 1.
Richardson 118,221 14 Applications are accepted online and in the City Secretary's office and are kept on file for two years.As vacancies occur on the various boards,applications on file are reviewed by the City
Council and an interview may be scheduled.Appointments are made atthe Council Meetings and applicants will be notified by City Staff.As City Council evaluates applicants,value is
placed on the following categories:leadership program participation;community leadership&involvement;professional experience relevant to the board;application quality&
motivation;additionalvalue or unique contribution;as well as a selection from a diverse range of demographics representing all areas of the City.
Flower Mound 81,415 15 An open house'come-and-go'event is held in late July,from 5:30pm to 7pm.Boards set up a table with their chair/vice chair and staff liaison and the public has an opportunityto learn
aboutthe boards first hand before applying.The mayor/council members attend and mix/mingle with public.The announcement of this date and the acceptance of applications(Aug 1-
30)is included in the water bill insert that is sent to all households,followed by a social media push.Prizes are given for the best-decorated tables.(Residents from the Town's Citizen
Academy often apply for aboard.)At open session at a Council Special Meeting(not recorded/broadcast),the Council interviews all candidates.Council deliberates after in the pre-
council room with candidates names on separate magnetized cards(attendance,training done,term expiration is included on each candidate's card)on the large magnetic board(allows
moving around of candidate names)until Council reaches consensus on candidates for each board.After final selection,a draft motion sheet for each board is completed and action is
taken by Council in open meeting on the draft motion sheets.
Coppell 43,196 9 Springtime into early summer,the City advertises upcoming application period for boards and commissions openings.Mid-August application period opens and closes in mid September.
The city council interviews all applicants based on board.There is no consideration given to places,rather the city council members identify which dates they are available and scheduling
happens based on availability.Two council members are present at each of the interviews.After each round of interviews is held,the interviewing council members advise city secretary
who their recommended nominations are.After all interviews are concluded,a work session is held to advise the council members of the interview results and recommended nominations
from each set of interviewing council members.Discussion is held and direction provided.At the next council meeting an item is presented typically on the consent agenda appointing all
nominees.A group orientation is held where all newly appointed members are sworn in and provided information on their board and the expectations.The process concludes with
certificates for the outgoing members presented at the last meeting in December.
Watauga 23,336 10 A Council Committee of 2 Councilmembers and someone from the CSO interviews applicants prior to the appointment meeting.The Committee then provides a memo/report to the entire
Council as to their recommendations which is also part of the agenda packet. Council votes on the recommendation and in most instances the recommendation is approved as
presented.
Trophy Club 13,666 10 Council appoints an Appointment Committee of 3 Council Members to interviews applicants.Dept.directors/liaisons,board representatives,or other stakeholders may be invited to
participate,(non-voting).Interviews take place in July-August,appointments in September&terms begin October 1st.The Committee also considers applicants duringthe year if mid-year
vacancies occur.After the interviews,the Committee submits a report to Council outlining recommended nominees which are then discussed at a session(not broadcast but is open to
the public).At a subsequent regular meeting sometime in September,Council votes on appointments&terms start October 1st.
Northlake 7,138 5 In Northlake,the Council Members are provided with all the applications(binder)two weeks before the appointment meeting.if they so choose,they will contact the applicants on their
own time to discuss their motivation for serving and get to know the applicants better.CSO also invites the applicants to the meeting,and some choose to speak during public input.The
Council then goes down the list and nominates/appoints.