December is a good time to reflect on Argyle’s accomplishments in 2025.

Argyle Farmers Market, featuring holiday shopping and local vendors, held its last outdoor market of the season. This was the second year for the event and I want to thank Emily Holt, owner of Argyle Party and Gift, and her committee for their hard work in bringing the farmers market to our town.

Argyle Party and Gift will move into its new home up the road this month to the “yellow building” on U.S. 377 at Dallas Street. The reason for this move is because a new “Market Place” is being built on the property where the gift shop has been for several years.

The farmers market, meanwhile, will also relocate in the spring to a temporary site until the new Market Place development is complete. Market Place will include amenities designed to make future farmers markets even better.

I would like to thank Deborah Cottle and the Lions Club for hosting the annual Veterans Day Dinner. I also want to give a special thank you to Kenny Grames, who has taken over maintenance of the fallen Texas Ranger Bobby Doherty Memorial at FM 1830 and Hickory Hill. His predecessor, Ray Chapman, cared for the memorial for many years and was recognized by the Texas Rangers Association Foundation for his service. More than 15 past and current Texas Rangers attended the event to show their appreciation.

The Argyle Business Association certainly makes the list of accomplishments for 2025. This privately-operated business group is a descendent of the old Argyle Chamber of Commerce. The ABA launched in February 2025 and already boasts a membership of 230-plus. They are high-energy group of business owners focused on building business, making friends, helping around town and creating a thriving business community in Argyle. Congratulations on the fast membership growth and outstanding focus on building business.

The next I-35W commercial district will go before Planning & Zoning this month. Though not as large as the Heritage project on the west side of I-35W and Robson Road, it will include significant sales tax–generating retail and restaurants. It will also provide an alternate route to I-35W and the service roads, helping ease traffic on FM 407—especially important with two new schools being built on that corridor. The project will also feature a trail system and a nature preserve.

Among our priorities for 2026 are expanding sales tax revenue and finding ways to reduce traffic. The town will also review its Capital Improvement Plan, including drainage improvements and road maintenance.

In the coming months, the town will present the new Argyle Main Street vision, which will ultimately connect Cook Street with FM 407. The plan outlines a unique district for restaurants and shopping. Argyle does not currently have a town square or main street. This project will tie into the Waterbrook commercial area and create a true destination business district. I look forward to sharing more soon.

Looking ahead, the council and I are working to make the new police station a reality. Several planning meetings are already scheduled, and we hope to share concept drawings with the public in the coming months. 

Finally, we hope to launch our Town Hall series this month, with more events scheduled in 2026. These sessions will give residents a chance to share what issues matter most to them. Each event will feature one or two council members and myself to answer questions and engage with the community.

Hello Double Oak Citizens,

As December settles in and holiday lights begin to glow across Double Oak, there is a familiar mix of busy schedules, cooler evenings and a touch of seasonal cheer in the air. Even with all the bustle that comes with this time of year, your Town Council has stayed focused on the work that keeps our community running smoothly. November was a full month, with steady progress on several issues that matter to residents and help shape the rhythm of town life.

The Council met twice in November, each meeting bringing thoughtful discussion and input from engaged citizens. During the month, moments of silence were taken to honor two longtime volunteers whose many years of service left a real mark on the town as a reminder of how much Double Oak depends on the generosity and involvement of its residents.

Much of the work last month involved the routine but important housekeeping that keeps the town operating efficiently. The Council reviewed and approved previous meeting minutes, considered financial documents and moved forward with agreements for seasonal lighting and other services. Financial oversight remained front and center, including the kickoff of the annual audit process and review of quarterly treasury reports. These steps help ensure Double Oak continues to operate responsibly and transparently. Updates were also adopted to the town’s records management policies, strengthening administrative procedures and compliance.

Public safety also played a key role in November’s agenda. A new police officer was sworn in, helping support the town’s ongoing commitment to strong, approachable, community-oriented policing. The Council also discussed the growing number of public records requests not to discourage them, but to acknowledge the strain they can place on staff who are simultaneously responsible for drainage reviews, road planning, ordinance work and the many day-to-day tasks residents rely on. These conversations will help shape future policies that preserve transparency while keeping municipal operations running smoothly.

Land-use, development and planning matters also received attention. A request for monument signage was reviewed and approved in keeping with town standards. Additional planning-related applications and proposals were considered, including a discussion about securing on-call planning support to give the town quicker access to professional expertise when needed. Later in the month, the Council heard a presentation from a municipal engineering firm that offered insight into infrastructure planning and long-term development considerations, part of the town’s ongoing effort to plan thoughtfully as growth pressures continue across the region.

Technology and administrative improvements were also part of the month’s business. The Council approved CJIS-compliant document scanning services to modernize and secure the town’s digital records, as well as a subscription platform aimed at improving internal administrative processes. These tools may not be flashy, but they play a key role in ensuring that everyday operations remain organized, efficient and future-ready.

Community events and facility use came up as well, especially as holiday activities ramp up. The Council approved arrangements to support various seasonal and volunteer-driven gatherings, the kinds of events that bring neighbors together and make Double Oak feel like a true community. Whether it is charitable efforts, annual traditions or simply gathering at Town Hall, these events rely on coordination and support to run smoothly.

Looking ahead, the Council also began conversations about broader governance topics, such as whether meeting frequency should be adjusted in the future and how town email accounts should be used for boards and commissions. These discussions will continue, but they reflect an ongoing effort to keep processes consistent, clear and workable for everyone involved in local government.

By the end of the month, the Council wrapped up its business, having made steady progress across a range of topics. From financial planning to public safety, from technology upgrades to land-use considerations, the Council remained focused on the goal that guides much of the town’s work ensuring Double Oak remains safe, well-run and welcoming.

On Saturday, Dec. 13, the Town of Double Oak will host a public meeting at the John B. Wright Pavilion at Town Hall to present the conceptual development plan for the property located at FM 407 and Simmons Road. The meeting will begin at 2 p.m.

As December unfolds, many residents will take time to reflect on the year, enjoy the company of friends and family, and participate in the traditions that make this season special. Double Oak is fortunate to be a place where people care about their town and each other, and where civic engagement is not just a duty it is part of the fabric of the community. Even as festivities fill the calendar, the work of local government continues with the same steady, neighborly spirit that carries through every month of the year.

Wishing everyone in Double Oak a warm and joyful start to the holiday.

To stay up to date with all the exciting news and updates, please visit the Double Oak Town website at doubleoak.texas.gov. In addition to contacting Town Hall at 972-539-9464, Double Oak citizens may reach me at [email protected].

December is a meaningful time in Justin, one filled with gratitude, reflection and the excitement of the year ahead. As we gather with loved ones and celebrate the season, I am reminded once again of what makes our community so exceptional. It is the people of Justin, your generosity, resilience and hometown pride that truly set our city apart. This season of gratitude gives us the opportunity to pause and appreciate everything we share, including supportive neighbors, hardworking city staff and a community spirit that continues to shine brighter each year.

One of our most cherished traditions is just around the corner. I invite everyone to join us for Old Town Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 12 to 6 p.m. This annual celebration is a highlight of the season, bringing families together for holiday fun, festive activities and the joy of gathering in the heart of Old Town. As the day winds down, we will come together for the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:30 p.m. This moment beautifully captures the warmth of our community. Immediately following, the Lighted Parade will roll out at 6:30 p.m., filling Old Town with sparkle, music and hometown cheer. It is an evening that truly embodies the spirit of Justin, and I hope to see you there.

As you enjoy the festivities, I also encourage you to shop locally and support our Justin businesses, not just during the holidays but throughout the year. Every purchase made in our community strengthens our local economy, supports local jobs and helps our small businesses continue to thrive. These business owners are our neighbors, our friends and an essential part of our city’s character and future. Your support makes a meaningful difference.

As we look toward the coming year, there is much to be excited about. Justin continues to grow, and with that growth comes opportunity. By working together and staying committed to the values that make Justin feel like home, we can continue building a bright future for our families, our businesses, and our city.

May your holiday season be filled with peace, joy and time spent with those who matter most. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Justin.

As the crisp air of December rolls into the City of Denton, a feeling of generosity shows up. The holiday season is a special time, one for reflection, gratitude and, most importantly, giving back. As the Mayor of my hometown, I am continually inspired by the incredible compassion shown by our residents. This year, we are proud to highlight several key initiatives designed to strengthen the fabric of our community and ensure that every neighbor and every family feels supported and cared for.

Our commitment to a compassionate community begins with recognizing that pets are family. This is the guiding principle behind the Denton Animal Support Foundation’s Pets are Family event.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, Dec. 13, when this vital regional outreach will take place at our North Texas Fairgrounds. The goal is simple yet profound: to remove the financial barriers that can tragically lead to pet surrenders at shelters. Last year, similar events provided essential services to approximately 750 animals and 500 families, demonstrating the overwhelming need and the incredible impact of this effort. Residents are welcome to attend without registration to receive free pet food, core vaccinations, rabies vaccines, and microchipping for their dogs and cats. It is a powerful way to keep families whole and pets healthy and safe where they belong, in homes. The Fairgrounds is located at 2217 N. Carroll Blvd, and the event will be all day.

Beyond caring for our four-legged friends, we understand that the stress of the holidays can be compounded by financial strain, especially regarding essential needs. That’s why I want to draw your attention to Powerful Connections, a straightforward and impactful way to directly support neighbors who may be struggling with utility payments. Whether you wish to gift a payment to a specific individual, a local business, or provide anonymous assistance to a family in need, Powerful Connections offers a direct link to make a meaningful difference in someone’s daily life. It is the perfect example of neighbors helping neighbors through a simple, yet profound, act of kindness. While account numbers are helpful, they’re not required. Visit lfpubweb.cityofdenton.com/Forms/powerfulconnections to give electronically or you can hand deliver your donation in person to the City’s customer service office.

Finally, a Denton holiday tradition that truly captures the spirit of giving is our annual Red Kettle Campaign in partnership with the Salvation Army. This is an effort that I passionately lead and is community-driven, raising essential funds for residents needing shelter, warm meals, critical support, and holiday gifts. I am honored to announce that on Saturday, Dec. 13, City staff and dedicated community volunteers will be at the Hobby Lobby on Loop 288 to ring the bell. We invite you to stop by, say hello and drop a donation into the kettle. For those who prefer the convenience of giving from home, an online donation option is also available at give.salvationarmytexas.org/fundraiser/6826961. Every single dollar contributes directly to helping our most vulnerable residents find warmth, hope and support during the cold winter months.

This December, I encourage every Denton resident to embrace the spirit of the season. Whether it’s ensuring a beloved pet stays with its family, easing a neighbor’s financial burden or contributing to the Salvation Army’s life-saving work, your generosity can create powerful connections and lasting change. Let us work together to make this a truly joyful and supportive holiday season for all who call Denton home. Happy holidays from my family to yours.

Last month I attended the community stakeholders meeting with the Denton County Emergency Services District No. 1 and No. 2 boards. The boards provided updates on recent accomplishments and outlined their plans to strengthen service across the region. Continued partnership with our regional fire service is important to ensure that Northlake can respond effectively to emergencies. Working with the ESDs allows our community to align long-term planning and maintain a reliable level of service as growth continues throughout the area.

I also participated in the Denton County Mayors’ Council with County Judge Andy Eads. The discussion focused on the legislative challenges created in Austin during the past session and how these issues are affecting local governments. Collaboration among mayors in the county helps us better advocate for solutions and represent the interests of our residents.

Later in the week I attended the Northwest ISD Joint Community Luncheon, where Superintendent Dr. Mark Foust shared updates from across the district. The district’s Career and Technical Education program continues to expand opportunities for students in fields such as health sciences, engineering, information technology, skilled trades and business. These programs provide students with real-world training, industry certifications and pathways into high-demand careers. Northwest ISD remains a strong partner for Northlake families and employers.

On Thursday, Nov. 13, we held our regular Town Council meeting. The council is considering an update to our 27-year-old dangerous buildings ordinance that would give property owners another layer of rights for resolving issues by allowing the Board of Adjustment to help address dangerous building cases. The Council also approved a site plan change for an industrial development originally granted several years ago southeast of FM 1171 and I-35W.

I also met with State Representative Richard Hayes (House District 57) along with the mayors from most of the communities in his district. We discussed the legislative challenges that cities are facing following the recent session as well as the governor’s new directives related to reducing property taxes. Northlake was the second-largest town represented at the meeting, following Flower Mound.

I also had the opportunity to meet with Cub Scout Pack 192 to help them complete their requirements related to learning about local government and meeting an elected official. It was a fun experience, and I always appreciate the chance to speak with kids about how their town operates and how they can contribute to their community as they grow.

I always encourage our residents to learn more about our town’s government. Our next council meeting is Thursday, Dec. 11 at 5:30 p.m. If you have questions or wish to reach out, feel free to email me at [email protected].