Resident Update March-Apr 2019CITY PARTNERS WITH WAZE TO HELP
DENTON DRIVERS NAVIGATE TRAFFIC
RESIDENT UPDATECITY OF DENTONMARCH | APRIL 2019Whether you are traveling for work or fun, traffic and construction
can make navigating through Denton difficult. With this in mind, the
City partnered with Waze through the Connected Citizens Program
to help keep drivers informed of traffic conditions and help them get
where they want to go faster and easier.
The Waze navigation app is well-known
for being an effective tool to warn drivers
of delays or accidents. With its unique
social component, Waze also collects
traffic information anonymously, directly
from drivers on the road. And with users
reporting conditions through the app,
drivers get the information they need
to avoid construction and traffic delays.
Through the Connected Citizen Program, the City shares road
construction information, including closures, detours, and hazards.
The City’s information, combined with Waze’s real-time,
user-reported information, helps direct users to alternate routes,
gives drivers better control over their commute, and warns them
which areas to avoid.
The Waze partnership is the latest initiative from the City to use
data and technology to improve mobility and the quality of life for
all who travel in or through Denton. With the anonymous insights
collected through Waze, the City can further promote safe roads
and make educated decisions about roadwork and other operations,
helping the community save time and travel more efficiently. Other
cities across the Metroplex, including Plano and Frisco, are already
using Waze, so you can reduce travel times throughout the DFW area.
To learn more about Waze and download the free
app, visit www.waze.com/get or visit the App store
or Google Play.
CONOCIMIENTO DE LA SITUACIÓN: Los socios reciben información en tiempo real sobre incidentes más rápido que a través de
otros métodos informativos. Además, Waze identifica con precisión el lugar donde se producen los incidentes, lo que permite crear tiempos de respuesta y despeje más rápidos y, potencialmente, ayudar a salvar vidas.
COMUNICACIÓN BIDIRECCIONAL CON LOS CONDUCTORES: Los socios utilizan Waze como un canal de comunicación
bidireccional: los socios usan Waze para informar a los conductores acerca de eventos de tráfico importantes y los conductores brindan información útil en tiempo real sobre las rutas a través de la app.
PLANIFICACIÓN DE INFRAESTRUCTURA: La información útil sobre las ubicaciones que presentan peligros o congestiones
frecuentes permite realizar una planificación urbana más eficaz.
ESTABLECIMIENTO DE CONEXIONES CON OTROS SOCIOS: Waze reúne a los socios en eventos presenciales y un foro en línea para analizar los casos de éxito y poder intercambiar ideas a fin de generar un impacto mayor en las comunidades de todo el mundo.
OPTIMIZACIÓN DE LAS ENTRADAS DE DATOS: Los socios pueden utilizar los estándares de datos que diseña Waze para crear informes sobre incidentes y cierres con el fin de reducir la fragmentación de datos y promover que se establezcan relaciones entre
los datos gubernamentales y los de transporte.
Se analizaron datos de Waze sobre el tráfico y los accidentes a fin de identificar los barrios que evidencian la mayor congestión durante los
días de elecciones (FIG. 1).
Luego, la ciudad de Río utilizó este análisis durante una elección secundaria
para probar cómo distribuir mejor el personal de tránsito. La imagen de la derecha muestra una disminución en las zonas con una alta congestión (rojo oscuro) informada como consecuencia de esta prueba.
Se analizaron datos de Waze recopilados durante tres meses para determinar las ubicaciones con la mayor cantidad de informes sobre autos estacionados en doble fila. Se implementó una prueba de un mes en la que se envió un equipo
especial en bicicleta para mejorar las condiciones de tráfico.
En un mes, se logró que más de 240 vehículos se movieran del lugar y se emitieron más de 36 multas de estacionamiento. La prueba mejoró la
movilidad en la ciudad.
BENEFICIOS
FIG 1FIG 2PARA LOS WAZERS
PARA LOS SOCIOS
CASOS REALES DE INTERCAMBIO DE DATOS A TRAVÉS DEL PROGRAMA CONNECTED CITIZENS
El mapa de Waze evoluciona con cada conductor y cada punto de datos que se agrega. El programa CCP genera más datos, lo que permite que los Wazers tengan más posibilidades de evitar los cierres viales y los embotellamientos.
RIO DE JANEIRO (COR)
CIUDAD DE BOSTON
Para obtener más información sobre el programa Waze Connected Citizens y para acceder a más estudios de caso de nuestros
aliados, visite www.waze.com/ccp.
El programa Connected Citizens (CCP) de Waze es un intercambio de datos
bidireccional gratuito que permite que las decisiones municipales causen
un impacto concreto en la comunidad. Lanzado en octubre de 2014 con 10
ciudades asociadas, el programa se expandió hasta alcanzar más de 63 socios,
incluidas agencias gubernamentales en el nivel municipal, estatal y nacional,
organizaciones sin fines de lucro y servicios de emergencia.
WAZE ofrece información en tiempo
real, anónima y exclusiva sobre
incidentes y detenciones en el tráfico
directamente desde la fuente: los
mismos conductores
LOS SOCIOS ofrecen información
anticipada y en tiempo real sobre cierres
viales, accidentes y construcciones con
datos informados por los organismos
gubernamentales
Welcome to the Resident Update.
This bimonthly newsletter offers a
chance for you to hear directly from
your local government about what
is happening in your city. This issue
includes information about how you
can get involved and engaged in
City efforts, including important
information about the City’s new partnership with Waze,
ongoing efforts to update the Denton Development Code,
and how to get involved in the Parks master planning
process.
If you would like to learn more about the City operations
and get involved in government, this issue also includes
details on how to register for the City’s Citizen Academy
and Teen Council.
Remember, May 4 is Election Day in Denton and early
voting begins on April 22. In this issue, you can get
important information about the upcoming
City Council election, how to register to vote, and
where to get more information about early voting
and Election Day polling locations.
We are always interested in hearing from you, and we
encourage everyone in
Denton to get involved
and engaged with the
City of Denton.
FROM THE MAYOR
City Partners with Waze .................................................1
From the Mayor ...............................................................2
Upcoming Public Meetings ...........................................2
Denton City Council .......................................................2
City Hosts 3rd Annual State of the City Event ............3
Register for the Citizen Academy ................................3
Parks & Rec Seeking Input for Master Plan ................3
Updates Underway for Development Code ..............4
Teen Council Gives Young Leaders Head A Start .....4
What To Do If You See A Loose Dog or Coyote .......5
City To Hold Council Election on May 4 ....................6
Animal Shelter Happy Tails Update: Boomer ............6
Featured Events ...............................................................7
IN THIS ISSUE
DENTON CITY COUNCIL
DENTON CITY COUNCIL
Monday, March 4 (Luncheon)
Tuesday, March 5 (Work Session & Council Meeting)
Tuesday, March 19 (Work Session & Council Meeting)
Tuesday, March 26 (Work Session)
Monday, April 1 (Luncheon)
Tuesday, April 2 (Work Session & Council Meeting)
Tuesday, April 9 (Work Session)
Tuesday, April 16 (Work Session & Council Meeting)
Tuesday, April 23 (Work Session)
PUBLIC UTILITIES BOARD
Monday, March 11
Monday, March 25
Monday, April 8
Monday, April 22
PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
Wednesday, March 6
Wednesday, March 20
Wednesday, April 3
Wednesday, April 17
These and other public meetings are broadcast
live on DTV and at www.cityofdenton.com/dtv.
For a current list of meetings and agendas,
visit www.cityofdenton.com/public-meetings.
IN THIS ISSUE
UPCOMING
PUBLIC MEETINGS
2
Chris Watts, Mayor | Chris.Watts@cityofdenton.com
Gerard Hudspeth, District 1 | Gerard.Hudspeth@cityofdenton.com
Keely G. Briggs, District 2 | Keely.Briggs@cityofdenton.com
Don Duff, District 3 | Don.Duff@cityofdenton.com
John Ryan, District 4 | John.Ryan@cityofdenton.com
Deb Armintor, At Large Place 5 | Deb.Armintor@cityofdenton.com
Paul Meltzer, At Large Place 6 | Paul.Meltzer@cityofdenton.com
Not sure who your Council Member is?
Visit www.cityofdenton.com, click on the magnifying glass in the
top right corner, and type “Find My Council Member” in the search bar.
CITYOF
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CITY HOSTS 3RD ANNUAL STATE OF THE CITY EVENT
On Thursday, Jan. 17, City of Denton leaders and 250 community members came together at the third
annual State of the City event at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Denton Convention Center.
The event began with an engagement fair for attendees to meet with City staff and Council Members,
followed by the Mayor’s annual address. In his address, Mayor Chris Watts reflected on accomplishments
from the past year and highlighted future goals. He discussed capital improvement updates, social
service initiatives, and organizational changes, all of which exemplify Denton’s ongoing growth and
development.
As he outlined his vision for 2019, Mayor Watts said now is a time of
tremendous and important growth for Denton. He also recommended
residents download the Engage Denton app to report issues like potholes,
sidewalks needing repairs, signal timings, and more. You can download the
app or submit a service request at www.engagedenton.com.
The Mayor’s address and the official State of the City video are available to view on the City’s YouTube
channel at www.youtube.com/cityofdenton.
The 2017-18 Annual Report was also released at the event featuring key accomplishments, long-term
objectives, and ways the City is working to serve you better. A copy of the report can be viewed at
www.cityofdenton.com/stayupdated.
Enjoy a unique and educational experience with your city government
by taking part in the Denton Citizen Academy. Interactive sessions will
introduce you to Denton’s public safety, infrastructure, economic
development, and more. Participants will learn first-hand how decisions
are made and services are delivered every day. The program is held over
five sessions from May through July, focusing on Utilities, Quality of Life,
Public Safety, and Development and Growth. The Academy is free and
open to all Denton residents 18 years of age and older, and participation
is limited to 25 citizens. For additional information and to register, visit
www.cityofdenton.com/citizenacademy or call (940) 349-8009.
REGISTER FOR THE DENTON CITIZEN ACADEMY
PARKS & REC SEEKING INPUT FOR MASTER PLAN
Denton Parks and Recreation is seeking public input to help develop
a new long-range, comprehensive master plan. Community input
from a Needs Assessment Survey will serve as a significant part of
the overall process. The survey is available in both English and
Spanish using the QR code or by visiting www.dentonparks.com.
10,000 households were randomly selected to receive a postcard
invitation to take the survey, however, feedback from the entire
community is encouraged. To learn more about the process and
other opportunities to engage, visit www.dentonparks.com.
4
UPDATES UNDERWAY FOR DENTON DEVELOPMENT CODE
TEEN COUNCIL GIVES YOUNG LEADERS A HEAD START
Tomorrow’s leaders get a head start in Teen Council by actively
participating in community-driven projects that inspire them to roll
up their sleeves and get engaged. Denton’s Teen Council currently
has 26 students and is mentored by staff in the Parks and Recreation
Department who are encouraging them to take the lead in how they
plan, execute, serve, and engage, both locally and regionally.
In 2018, Teen Council members came together locally to serve and benefit the Spirit of Christmas Food
Drive and Operation Christmas Child. This year, they will continue serving the community by hosting
the 2nd Annual Battle of the Bands on Friday, March 29 and by representing the City at the Texas Youth
Advisory Commission Summit in Fort Worth, a two-day statewide summit that provides opportunities
for teens to share their community impact projects and develop new ideas moving forward.
Teen Council currently meets twice a month during the school year from October to the end of May.
Registration is open for the 2019-20 school year. To see the program qualifications and apply, visit
www.dentonparks.com.
The City is in the process of updating the Denton Development Code (DDC). The DDC is one of the
most important codes in the City as it regulates what, where, and how development occurs in Denton.
The last comprehensive DDC and Zoning Map updates were made more than 16 years ago. With the
recently adopted City comprehensive plan, Denton Plan 2030, and Denton’s ongoing growth, it is time
to reevaluate the Code and make the changes necessary to implement our vision for Denton’s future.
The goal of the DDC Update is to promote responsible and quality development while also protecting
and preserving Denton’s unique charm and character. To ensure that we balance smart growth and
community preservation, the new DDC will center on the following themes:
• Focus on customer service • Provide flexibility
• Protect neighborhoods • Coordinate efforts throughout the City
• Build a strong foundation • Tailor development standards to specific context
Because the DDC includes the standards and processes that regulate development and set zoning
designations, the DDC update will affect all Denton residents, businesses, and property owners.
While you may find yourself in a new zoning district, the current policies affecting single-family
neighborhoods or existing developments will not change. However, if you own or live near
undeveloped property, you are likely to see new zoning and development regulations and processes.
The City is hosting a number of public meetings where residents can learn more about the DDC update
and proposed Zoning Map, speak with City staff, and provide feedback. Meetings will be held on
Monday, March 18 and Thursday, March 21 at 6 p.m. at the Denton Civic Center, 321 E. McKinney St.
If you are unable to attend a public meeting and would like more information regarding your property
or how the DDC update could impact you, call Development Services at (940) 349-8541 to speak with
a member of the City’s Planning staff.
A draft of the DDC update, the proposed Zoning Map, and FAQs are currently available online at
www.dentoncode2030.com. You will also find details about upcoming Planning and Zoning
Commission and City Council Work Sessions and Public Meetings.
5
SUMMER SPLASH TIMEWHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A LOOSE DOG OR COYOTE
LOOSE AND STRAY DOGS can be a danger to citizens. Here’s what to do if you see one:
• Use caution when approaching a loose or stray dog. If in doubt, report the stray animal to
Animal Services at (940) 349-7594 Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or
call (940) 349-8181 after hours.
• If the situation escalates to an emergency, such as a dog pursuing or attacking a person,
call 911 immediately.
• It is the responsibility of pet owners to be familiar with the laws regulating pets in public spaces.
The City of Denton has a leash law and all animals must be restrained when in public, including
at all City parks and trails (with the exception of Wiggly Field Dog Park). Failure to properly restrain
a pet can result in a fine for the owner.
NEW MAP TRACKS COYOTE SIGHTINGS
The City has launched a new map to track coyote sightings in the area.
Residents can report sightings via the Engage Denton app (available
at www.engagedenton.com), which captures the location of the
sighting. Sightings are then loaded into the interactive map where
they will remain for 90 days. The coyote sighting map is available
at www.cityofdenton.com/animalservices and clicking on “Wildlife”
under “Important Resources.” To report a coyote sighting, use the
Engage Denton app or visit www.engagedenton.com. Coyotes
are creatures of habit. Know where they have been sighted and be prepared.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A COYOTE:
• For attacks or any aggressive animal sighting, call 911 immediately.
• If you encounter a coyote, make a loud noise, yell, and wave your arms to scare the animal away.
These actions, called “hazing,” will help instill the fear of humans and break bad coyote behaviors.
• Take a whistle or tennis ball with you when walking in your neighborhood. These are helpful tools
to use to scare off a coyote.
• Report the coyote sighting through the Engage Denton application.
IF A COYOTE SEES A PERSON, IT IS COMMON FOR THEM TO:
• Be startled and run away.
• Freeze and stare at the person. If this happens, keep making loud noises and increasing the intensity
of your efforts to scare away the coyote.
• Run or walk a short distance away, stop, then look back. Coyotes are curious by nature. Keep being
loud to scare them away.
PROACTIVE COYOTE-DETERRENT MEASURES:
• Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed to eliminate hiding places for coyotes.
• Do not leave any food outside, including bird seed, pet food, and compost.
• Never feed a coyote.
• Keep your pet on a leash at all times.
• Keep cats indoors and do not leave dogs unattended outside.
For more information about coyotes and other wildlife, visit www.cityofdenton.com/animalservices.
6
ANIMAL SHELTER HAPPY TAILS UPDATE: BOOMER
CITY TO HOLD COUNCIL ELECTION ON MAY 4
Saturday, May 4 is Election Day for City Council candidates. Four seats are up for election: Districts 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Qualified voters are only eligible to vote for candidates in the district in which they reside.
WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES? (Listed in alphabetical order)
District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4
George Ferrie Keely G. Briggs Jesse Davis Emily Meisner
Gerard Hudspeth Matt Farmer John Ryan
Diana Leggett
HOW DO I REGISTER TO VOTE?
You will need to register through Denton County Elections Administration. To learn more,
visit www.votedenton.com. The last day to register to vote for this election is April 4.
WHAT DISTRICT AM I IN?
To find your voting district, visit www.cityofdenton.com/vote, click “Locate my Voter District,” and enter your
physical address.
WHERE DO I VOTE EARLY FOR THE ELECTION?
During early voting, you can vote at any polling location in Denton County. You can find early voting location
information at www.votedenton.com.
WHERE DO I VOTE ON ELECTION DAY?
Election Day polling locations are assigned based on City Council district and County precinct. You can find your
voting precinct information and polling locations at www.votedenton.com.
There is nothing quite like the joy of helping animals find their new forever homes at the Linda McNatt Animal
Care and Adoption Center. We recently heard the story of Trey, Boomer, and the Stoner family, and we had to
share it.
Boomer (then-Pepe) is a shepherd-mix who had made his way to the
Center. Employees knew that Boomer was kind, loving, and ready to find his
family. Trey, an Animal Control Officer, had a special bond with Boomer and
knew when the Stoner family came to the Center in December that Boomer
would be a perfect fit.
“Trey was the employee who took the time with us and introduced us to
Pepe (Boomer). He was patient and you could tell by his interaction with
the animals there that he really cares,” said the Stoners.
Following their experience, the Stoners added, “We just want to thank the
shelter and especially Trey for taking the time to love all of the pets and
people who they come in contact with.”
Thanks to employees like Trey and adopters like the Stoners, animals at
the Linda McNatt Animal Care and Adoption Center find loving homes
and families throughout the Denton community.
Looking to adopt a pet? Visit www.cityofdenton.com/animalservices.
ADAPTED RECREATION ST. PATTY’S DANCE
Friday, March 8 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
North Lakes Rec Center, 2001 W. Windsor Dr.
Join us for a St. Patty’s-themed dance
complete with music, a disco dance floor,
food, photo booth, and fellowship fun. Rec
pass admission. Adapted recreation dances
welcome participants of all ages who have
physical and/or developmental disabilities.
Ages 16 and up.
JAZZ: AMERICA’S UNIQUE ART FORM
Tuesday, March 19 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St.
Join us for a short presentation and
demonstrative performance by a student
ensemble from the highly acclaimed jazz
program at the University of North Texas.
For all ages.
31ST ANNUAL GREAT AMERICAN CLEANUP
Saturday, March 23 | Cleanups will begin at
9 a.m. at various locations around Denton,
followed by a volunteer appreciation party from
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Denton Civic Center.
Each year thousands of volunteers join Keep
Denton Beautiful, Inc. to improve the beauty
and environmental health of the community.
Visit www.kdb.org for more information and to
register. Registration is open through March 11.
DENTON REDBUD FESTIVAL
Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Denton Civic Center, 321 E. McKinney St.
This award-winning community event
—Denton’s official Arbor Day celebration—
offers fun for attendees of all ages, with a
focus on trees and community beautification.
Visit www.kdb.org for more information.
For all ages.
REDBUD FESTIVAL STORYTIME
Saturday, April 13 at 11 a.m.
Denton Civic Center, 321 E. McKinney St.
Join us at the Redbud Festival for a
tree-themed preschool StoryTime!
For ages 1-5.
Visit library.cityofdenton.com for a
complete list of Denton Public Library
events and activities.
BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY
Saturday, April 13 from 10 a.m. to noon
MLK Jr. Rec Center, 1300 Wilson St.
Hop in and enjoy a hot breakfast, carnival
games, and crafts with the Easter bunny.
Then, immediately following the crafts and
games, the Cute Kids Foundation will sponsor
an egg hunt! The fee includes a photo,
pancake breakfast, and juice. $5 per kid;
each additional photo costs $1. Ages 3 and up.
FREE TEEN TWILIGHT EGG HUNT
Thursday, April 18 at 8 p.m.
Denia Rec Center, 1001 Parvin St.
Teens, ages 11-16, will enjoy door prizes and
a fun night with friends. Teens need to bring a
flashlight to participate. Registration begins at
8 p.m. and the hunt begins after sundown.
Visit www.dentonparks.com for a complete
list of Parks & Rec events and activities.
FREE EASTER EGG’STRAVAGANZA
Saturday, April 20 | 9:30 a.m. Bounce house
and arts and crafts; 10:45 a.m. Magic show;
and 11:30 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt
Quakertown Park and Denton Civic Center,
321 E. McKinney St.
The park will be divided by age and grades
(toddlers to grade 5) for the egg hunt, and
field signs will help guide families to the
designated areas. MARCH 8MARCH 19MARCH 23APRIL 13APRIL 13APRIL 13APRIL 18APRIL 20FEATURED EVENTS
7
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RESIDENT UPDATECITY OF DENTON
MARCH | APRIL 2019