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Denton County CPS Board hears OCOK caseload report showing 515 intakes and placement pressures
Summary
Our Community Our Kids reported 515 intakes and 320 children in substitute care; board members heard details on placement decisions and court processes that affect whether children remain in Denton County or are placed elsewhere.
Hailey Laux of Our Community Our Kids told the Denton County CPS Board on May 18 that the program recorded 515 total intakes and 162 investigations during the reporting period, with 320 children in substitute care and 177 Family Based Safety Services cases open at month end.
The report listed additional counts: 10 children removed from home during the period, 117 children from Denton County placed inside the county, 221 children placed in Denton County from other counties, 96 children in kinship care, 110 children with parental rights terminated, 80 children awaiting adoption, and 13 children who exited care. "Total intakes 515; investigations 162; 320 children in substitute care," Laux summarized in the presentation.
Patti Hustis, CASA Program Director, and Laux described how placement decisions are made, emphasizing the court’s role and the preference to keep children with family or within Denton County when appropriate. They outlined factors considered in placement determinations and how Family Based Safety Services operates to support children and families while cases are open.
Board members asked about the process for keeping children in-county versus placing them elsewhere and about resources for kinship placements. Hustis and Laux explained the interaction between child welfare assessments, family capacity, court rulings and available local placements, noting that each case requires individualized review.
The board received the report and discussed follow-up needs; minutes do not record a formal vote on policy changes. The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for June 22, 2026.
