City Council approves Erica Garland's nomination and discusses 2025 housing action plan

The Denton City Council convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting the community, including the approval of a new board member and a public hearing on the 2025 action plan for housing and community development.

In a notable decision, the council approved the nomination of Erica Garland to the board, with a vote of 4 to 3. Mayor Hutzford and a representative from District 4 supported the motion, highlighting Garland's qualifications and current service on the board.

The meeting also featured a public hearing led by Jesse Kent, the director of community services, regarding the 2025 action plan as part of the city's consolidated plan for housing and community development. This plan is essential for securing federal funding through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME funds, which are allocated for various community needs, including public facilities, social services, and housing programs.

Kent emphasized the importance of community engagement in developing the action plan, noting that feedback from residents is crucial. The city has conducted outreach through online surveys and social media to gather input. The comment period for the action plan will close on June 20, with the council expected to approve the finalized plan on July 22. The approved plan will take effect alongside the city budget in October.

During the discussion, council members raised questions about the reporting requirements for the use of federal funds. Kent clarified that organizations receiving CDBG funds must provide detailed proposals on how the money will be spent, adhering to strict federal guidelines. He noted that while some funds can support social services, they are primarily intended for infrastructure improvements.

As the city moves forward with these initiatives, the council's decisions reflect a commitment to addressing community needs and enhancing the quality of life for Denton residents. The upcoming action plan aims to strategically allocate resources to foster development and support for those in need within the community.