Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in DeSoto public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
23 issues with high priority
Hanover – Bend Brook Development Proposal
Developers are proposing a new residential project called Hanover – Bend Brook at 800, 811, and 901 E. Parkerville Road. Commissioners will hear a presentation and discuss how the project fits into the area's zoning and future growth plans.
State Legislative Agenda Priorities
The council reviewed its legislative wishlist and state positions, opposing property tax caps, preemption, and data centers while supporting local control over land use and opposing accessory dwelling units by right.
Nance Farm Cultural Arts Center Phase 1 Improvements
The city plans to award a $2.88 million construction contract to FMG Construction Group for Phase 1 upgrades at the historic Nance Farm site.
Water and Sewer Utility Rate Increases
Council approved a 9% rate increase on water and sewer base and volume charges starting October 1 to fund ongoing infrastructure and utility improvements. Residents expressed strong concern over the financial impact on households already struggling with utility bills.
Streambank Erosion Mitigation Program
The council reviewed implementation options for a residential erosion cost-share program and agreed on a $10,000 flat resident fee, in-house management, and no project cost cap for the first year.
Police Department Policy Management Software
The council debated and approved a $49,615 contract with Lexipol for police policy updates and training modules, funded through federal forfeiture funds. Concerns were raised by a resident regarding past legal controversies involving Lexipol policies in other cities, prompting discussion on legal review and oversight.
Procurement Process Concerns
Council members raised concerns about awarding city contracts to vendors debarred at the state level on SAM.gov, prompting a review of municipal purchasing policies.
Public Transit Options
The council evaluated potential public transit alternatives and DART GoLink microtransit, but residents and council members pushed back, choosing instead to focus on improving Star Transit services.
Office Space Redesign
The economic development team needs a better office to host meetings and negotiate deals. They currently lack privacy and a professional space to impress potential business partners.
School Safety and Funding
A resident requested that the city help fund school crossing guards and adjust the SRO funding split to 50/50 to support the school district.
Minor Auto Repair Shop SUP Denial on East Belt Line Road
Residents and planning staff expressed concern that an auto repair shop at 1027 E. Belt Line Road would increase traffic and noise in an area designated for residential use in the comprehensive plan. The council voted 6-1 to deny the permit.
Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances Comprehensive Update
The city accepted a $150,000 GLO grant to comprehensively update and codify its zoning and subdivision regulations, implementing the city's comprehensive plan.
Fiscal Year Reserve Fund Reallocation
The city reallocated over $4 million in surplus reserve funds from the 2025 audit to fund vehicle replacements and vital drainage improvement projects.
CDBG Funding Allocation
The city held a public hearing on the CDBG Annual Action Plan, highlighting home repair programs and senior center roof repairs covered by insurance.
City Management and Ethics Oversight
The council held a special meeting to ensure leadership is aligned on ethics and to manage the transition or duties of the city manager's office. These discussions are key to maintaining stable city operations.
Property Maintenance and Code Violations
Residents are frustrated by long-term property neglect, including inoperable vehicles and trash. The city encourages using the mobile app to report these issues so they can build a case for enforcement.
Comprehensive Commercial Economic Master Plan
Councilmember Ken Waters proposed an eight-district economic master plan and TERS strategy to drive commercial growth, which received unanimous approval to go to staff for further review.
Real Estate Development and Acquisition
Discussions focused on potential real estate transactions and development initiatives, including the Hampton Road Corridor Redevelopment Initiative, which could shape future growth and infrastructure in the city.
Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Diagnostic Review
Consultants updated the council on an ongoing review of outdated development codes, aiming to modernize regulations, streamline approvals, and address housing, parking, and commercial standards.
Lot Size Variance Request
Property owners requested relief from standard lot width and depth requirements to build on a residential lot in Creek Tree Estates. The board reviewed the request to ensure it fits the neighborhood.
Automated License Plate Recognition Cameras & Crime Grant
The city council approved applying for a state crime prevention grant to fund about 30 automated license plate reader cameras along major corridors, a task force vehicle, and drone technology. While supporters noted the tools help track suspects and combat vehicle thefts, concerns were raised regarding data privacy and surveillance scope.
Prohibition of Amusement Redemption Machines (8-Liners)
The city council adopted an ordinance to ban 8-liners and similar gaming machines in local businesses to curb illegal gambling and neighborhood nuisances, giving businesses until July 1 to comply.
Community Support Services
Great news, DeSoto seniors! Your Senior Activity Center is officially back open, though at 75% capacity for now. Get ready to reconnect with friends and enjoy your favorite activities again!