Commission identifies downtown buildings for possible local designation; Den Women’s Club review delayed

Members of the Denton Historic Landmark Commission flagged multiple downtown properties for further research and possible local designation and scheduled follow-up steps through the commission’s project matrix.

A commissioner introduced the Stalker's Building at 120 East Oak Street for consideration, noting its mid-century details and local design pedigree; the presenter said the building was built in 1959 and was designed by a local architect. Commissioners asked staff to "check in" on that parcel and several members signaled interest in moving forward with a research file.

Commissioners also discussed 308 East Oak Street, the Oak Street Draft House, whose operator expressed interest in accessibility improvements and asked about incentives and designation. A commissioner noted the property’s recent investment and said the owner had expressed openness to a conversation about designation benefits. Multiple members encouraged staff outreach to owners who are already investing in preservation work as potential candidates for designation and incentives.

The commission received a staff update that the Den Women’s Club and related Quakertown Park matters are on hold pending budget determinations; staff said the park project timeline could be more than a decade away, and the commission agreed to defer further work until budgets firm up. Staff also said historic district signage and a broader beautification effort will return to the commission in spring 2025 for further discussion.

Commissioners asked staff to generate follow-up materials and outreach, and several commissioners volunteered to work on preliminary research. No formal designation votes were taken; the commission recorded interest in a set of parcels and asked staff to return with documentation and next steps.