Southern Denton County Voices Archives - Cross Timbers Gazette | Southern Denton County | Flower Mound | News https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/category/southern-denton-county-opinion/ News, events, sports, schools, business and weather for Flower Mound & southern Denton County, Texas - The Cross Timbers Gazette Newspaper Tue, 13 May 2025 19:36:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/crosstimbersgazette/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cropped-site-icon-36x36.jpg Southern Denton County Voices Archives - Cross Timbers Gazette | Southern Denton County | Flower Mound | News https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/category/southern-denton-county-opinion/ 32 32 City of Justin Update – May 2025 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/13/city-of-justin-mayors-column-may-2025/ Tue, 13 May 2025 19:45:59 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81850 This month brings an exciting milestone for the City of Justin as we officially break ground on Fire Station No. 2—our city’s first-ever new building project! This is a proud moment not only for our City Council and staff, but for our entire community. It represents progress, growth and an ongoing commitment to the safety […]

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This month brings an exciting milestone for the City of Justin as we officially break ground on Fire Station No. 2—our city’s first-ever new building project! This is a proud moment not only for our City Council and staff, but for our entire community. It represents progress, growth and an ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of our residents.

A special thank you goes out to the voters who made this possible by passing the bond in the November 2023 election. Your support has laid the foundation for a modern, efficient, and much-needed facility for our fire department. Fire Station No. 2 will offer more space to house additional firefighters and will include updated safety features that our current station lacks. These improvements are vital to ensure our first responders have the tools and space they need to serve the community at their best.

I hope you’ll join us for the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, May 15 at 6 p.m. at 11042 FM 407, Justin, TX 76247. This is more than just a construction project—it’s a symbol of what we can accomplish when we work together to plan for the future.

As we look ahead, it’s clear that Justin is growing in all the right ways—from new businesses opening in Justin Town Square to infrastructure investments like this fire station. Thank you for continuing to believe in our community and helping us build a stronger, safer Justin.

I look forward to seeing many of you at the groundbreaking celebration!

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Bartonville Town Update – May 2025 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/11/bartonville-town-update-may-2025/ Mon, 12 May 2025 00:34:45 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81812 Hello Bartonville! As we welcome in the month of May, I hope each of you had a joyful and peaceful Easter spent with loved ones. With Mother’s Day just around the corner, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate all the incredible mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our community. Your strength, […]

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Hello Bartonville! As we welcome in the month of May, I hope each of you had a joyful and peaceful Easter spent with loved ones. With Mother’s Day just around the corner, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate all the incredible mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our community. Your strength, love, and dedication are truly the heart of so many families. I hope this month offers you moments of appreciation, joy, and relaxation that you deserve.

This past month, we had the pleasure of coming together on April 8 for our annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. It was an evening dedicated to honoring the many individuals who generously give their time and talents to serve on our Town Council, boards, and committees. Their commitment to our community plays a vital role in keeping our town running smoothly. Whether helping to shape local policy, organizing community events, or offering expertise on planning and development, their efforts are felt in every corner of our town. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of them for their dedication and service.

At the April 15 Town Council meeting, several significant actions were taken that will impact the community’s infrastructure and leadership. One of the agenda items was the adoption of updated building codes. The council voted to transition from the 2009 building code standards to the 2021 versions, aligning the town with more modern safety, energy efficiency, and construction guidelines. This update is expected to enhance public safety and streamline future development projects.

We would also like to congratulate the Chief of Police, Kirk Riggs, who was officially appointed as the permanent Town Administrator while continuing his role as Chief of Police. Chief Riggs has been serving as Acting Town Administrator for the past 7 months, and his appointment reflects the council’s confidence in his leadership and ability to manage both public safety and administrative responsibilities.

The council also confirmed the appointment of Del Knowler as the town’s representative to the Upper Trinity Regional Water District Board for another four-year term. Mr. Knowler has held this position since 2013, contributing over a decade of service to regional water planning and resource management. His continued involvement ensures consistency and experience in representing the town’s interests in this vital area.

In response to increasing traffic and a concerning number of accidents, new traffic signals are currently being installed along FM 407 by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). These signals, which will be activated in the coming weeks, are intended to improve safety and manage the growing volume of vehicles on this busy thoroughfare. Town officials have been working with TxDOT for the past three years to get the signals installed, noting that it addresses long-standing concerns from residents and business owners about dangerous intersections and congestion in the area. These updates reflect the council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening town operations, improving public safety, and planning for long-term sustainability.

As state lawmakers continue to propose legislation that could reshape local zoning authority, several bills have emerged this session that would directly impact how towns like Bartonville manage Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These proposed laws aim to increase housing options statewide but raise concerns about preserving local control and community character. Senate Bill 673 and House Bill 1779 are among the most significant proposals, seeking to substantially limit the authority of local governments to regulate ADUs. These bills would prohibit municipalities from banning ADUs or imposing overly-restrictive regulations. They also allow for multiple units on single-family lots and eliminate owner-occupancy requirements. SB 673 has already passed the Senate with a 27-3 vote, while HB 1779, filed on Jan. 9, has not yet moved forward to committee.

House Bill 2480 takes a slightly more moderate approach, preserving some local authority but still mandating that municipalities like Bartonville permit ADUs. While it does not allow for a complete prohibition, it grants limited flexibility in regulation. Filed on Feb. 5, HB 2480 has also not yet advanced to committee. As your mayor, I remain committed to keeping our residents informed and advocating for policies that reflect Bartonville’s unique values and priorities. I will continue to monitor these bills closely and ensure that our voice is heard at the state level.

Bartonville will celebrate their annual Spirit Day on May 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Town Hall. This event celebrates all the things that make Bartonville a truly special place to call home—our sense of community, shared spirit, and timeless, good old-fashioned fun. We’ve planned a day for the entire family, with live music to set the tone, delicious food trucks offering a variety of treats, and games and activities that will bring smiles to faces of all ages. For the kids, we’re excited to have a waterslide bounce house—a guaranteed hit on a warm spring day. Whether you’re new to town or a longtime resident, Spirit Day is a chance to connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories.

Development Update: 

Deer Hollow (5-acre subdivision behind Hat Creek) – this subdivision includes 14 residential lots.

Eagle Ridge (2-acre subdivision across from Tractor Supply on FM 407) – this subdivision includes 33 residential lots.

Hudson Hills (2-acre subdivision behind Marty B’s) – this subdivision includes 33 residential lots.

Trifecta Estates (2-acre subdivision off McMakin) – this subdivision includes 8 residential lots.

Do not miss any exciting news, updates, or meetings; visit the Town’s website at www.townofbartonville.com and sign up for updates by clicking on “NOTIFY ME.”

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Pastor’s Place: Facets of Love https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/11/pastors-place-facets-of-love/ Sun, 11 May 2025 05:47:10 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81805 By Ron Shields, Lewisville Campus Pastor, Valley Creek Church May is here, which reminds us of the opportunity to honor mothers and women in our lives that reflect a unique facet of the heart of God. If you look closely into a diamond, all the many facets reveal various forms of beauty and brilliance. So […]

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By Ron Shields, Lewisville Campus Pastor, Valley Creek Church

May is here, which reminds us of the opportunity to honor mothers and women in our lives that reflect a unique facet of the heart of God. If you look closely into a diamond, all the many facets reveal various forms of beauty and brilliance. So does the heart of women. Whether you have a great mom, remember one who has passed away, long to be one, or have been loved by someone who mothered you—Mother’s Day speaks to all of us.

In Isaiah 66:13, God says, “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.” From the beginning, God designed motherhood to show us His nature—nurturing, steadfast, and sacrificial. A mother’s love points us to the comfort and compassion of our Creator.

Even Jesus used this picture in Luke 13:34, describing His heart like a mother hen longing to gather her children close. Jesus longs for you to open up to receive His love, His grace, and His protection. Jesus is always drawing near; the only question is are we willing to open up and turn to His love.

Jesus in His kindness gives us the gift of moms to reflect and reveal His heart to us in tangible ways. And yet, this kind of love isn’t limited to moms. It shows up in teachers, mentors, neighbors, and friends—anyone who chooses to nurture, protect, and encourage. A mothering spirit is a powerful reflection of God’s love.

This Mother’s Day, may we celebrate and honor the kind of love that gives freely, has good will toward us, and that shows up again and again.

Happy Mother’s Day.

 

The Pastor’s Place features columns written by a different area church leader each month. Call 940-728-8284 for more information.

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Just the Facts with Mayor Ron Robertson – May 2025 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/10/just-the-facts-with-mayor-ron-robertson-may-2025/ Sat, 10 May 2025 20:30:36 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81792 As many of you may know, we have been working with Denton County over the past two years to replace the Estates Drive Bridge. Denton County has selected Aguirre & Fields Engineering to design the new bridge. The kickoff meeting for the project was held on April 17 with attendees including Town staff, Denton County […]

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As many of you may know, we have been working with Denton County over the past two years to replace the Estates Drive Bridge. Denton County has selected Aguirre & Fields Engineering to design the new bridge.

The kickoff meeting for the project was held on April 17 with attendees including Town staff, Denton County representatives and Aguirre & Fields Engineering. These project meetings will be held monthly.

During the kickoff meeting, the scope of work was reviewed and efforts began to review rights-of-way, easements and floodplain boundaries. Work is also underway to develop a plan for maintaining traffic flow during construction. The project team will be meeting with residents throughout the project to keep them informed of the progress. We are at a very early stage and there will be more information to come over the next 90 days. 

Aguirre & Fields Engineering is expected to present a draft project schedule at the May meeting. The Town has committed $250,000, with Denton County covering most of the project’s costs. While final expenses are still being determined, they are expected to exceed $1 million.

You may have noticed construction activity at FM 407 and Vickery Blvd. The piers for the new traffic signal have been installed and the project remains on schedule for completion this summer, pending any weather delays.

Current development updates:

Copper Knoll Estates has installed streets and infrastructure and is now importing dirt to the site over the next two weeks, weather permitting.

Jernigan Estates: Town staff scheduled an onsite meeting the week of April 28 to conduct a final walkthrough and accept site improvements.

Quarter Horse Estates is currently working on the downstream assessment study required before submitting the final plat application to the Town.

Aune Ranch presented the final plat to the Planning and Zoning Commission at the April 21 meeting. It will now proceed to Town Council for consideration on May 12.

This month, we celebrate and thank all mothers for the profound impact they have on our lives, shaping who we are and inspiring who we strive to become. Please join us in recognizing the remarkable role they play in our families, our communities and our hearts.

We also observe Memorial Day, a day of national reflection and gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice made by service members to protect our freedoms. Memorial Day originated after the Civil War, first known as “Decoration Day,” when Americans honored fallen soldiers by decorating their graves. Over time, it evolved to honor all military members who died in service and became an official federal holiday in 1971, observed on the last Monday in May.

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Hudspeth: Celebrating our small businesses during National Small Business Week https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/06/hudspeth-celebrating-our-small-businesses-during-national-small-business-week/ Tue, 06 May 2025 05:01:32 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81672 For more than 60 years, National Small Business Week has been celebrated to acknowledge the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. This year, the official recognition week takes place May 4-10 and I am delighted to take the opportunity to recognize all the invaluable ingenuity of Denton’s small businesses and the vital role […]

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For more than 60 years, National Small Business Week has been celebrated to acknowledge the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. This year, the official recognition week takes place May 4-10 and I am delighted to take the opportunity to recognize all the invaluable ingenuity of Denton’s small businesses and the vital role they play in shaping the unique character and economic vitality of our community.

Denton’s small businesses are more than just shops and stores; they are the identity of our city. They are family-owned restaurants where we gather for special occasions, the independent bookstores that foster a passion for reading, the neighborhood boutiques that offer unique finds and the skilled service providers who keep our lives running smoothly.

These businesses are built on a deep commitment to maintaining our culture and serving our neighbors. Their impact far exceeds the goods and services they provide. They are significant job creators, offering opportunities for our residents and contributing to our local tax base. They often sponsor our local sports teams, donate to community events and contribute to the charitable organizations that make us such a connected place.

Small Business Week begins with a Mayoral proclamation at our upcoming City Council where we will formally acknowledge the immense value of these businesses across the City of Denton. Now, more than ever, our local businesses deserve our support. They have navigated economic fluctuations, adapted to changing consumer habits, and consistently demonstrated resilience. By choosing to shop locally, we are not just making a purchase; we are making an investment in our neighbors, our community and our future.

When you choose to spend your dollars at a local business, you are directly supporting a member of our community. You are helping to keep their doors open, sustain local jobs, and ensure that the unique flavor and charm of Denton continues to thrive. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee at the corner café, picking up a gift from a local artisan or utilizing the services of a nearby repair shop, every purchase makes a difference.

This week, and indeed throughout the year, I encourage everyone to make a conscious effort to explore and support our local small businesses. Let’s celebrate their hard work, their dedication and their significant contributions to making Denton a wonderful place to live, work and shop. Together, we can ensure that our small businesses continue to be the vibrant and essential cornerstone of our community for many years to come.

For anyone interested in becoming a part of the business-friendly environment that exists in Denton, I encourage you to reach out to the City’s Economic Development Director, Ms. Brittany Sotelo, to learn all about your next steps.

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Eads: Wishing longtime colleague and friend Bobbie Mitchell support as she recovers https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/02/eads-wishing-longtime-colleague-and-friend-bobbie-mitchell-support-as-she-recovers/ Fri, 02 May 2025 22:00:26 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81598 By Denton County Judge Andy Eads I wanted to use this month’s column here in The Cross Timbers Gazette to celebrate two friends of mine and so many others, Fred and Bobbie Mitchell. As you have mostly likely already learned, Denton County Precinct 3 Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell and her family suffered an unfathomable tragedy […]

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By Denton County Judge Andy Eads

I wanted to use this month’s column here in The Cross Timbers Gazette to celebrate two friends of mine and so many others, Fred and Bobbie Mitchell. As you have mostly likely already learned, Denton County Precinct 3 Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell and her family suffered an unfathomable tragedy on April 21 – one that has struck all of us deeply locally and across the nation.

As we wish only the best for Bobbie, who is on the road to recovery and expected to be released from the hospital by the time newspaper is published, we also deeply mourn the loss of her husband, Fred. 

Bobbie has given so very much of her time and energy to serve others here in our community for the past 40 years, beginning with the City of Lewisville Zoning Board of Adjustment in 1985. Since then, she has served as a Lewisville councilmember for three years and was the first Black Lewisville Mayor elected in 1993. She served until 2000 when she stepped down to pursue a seat on the Denton County Commissioners Court that same year – a role she has held ever since. 

I’ve known Bobbie since I was a child, I met her as she was one of my mother’s good friends and they are still friends to this very day. Back then, she worked at GTE where she held numerous management positions until she retired in 1993. She then worked in the Precinct 3 Constable Office from 1996 until 2000, when she took office as our Precinct 3 Commissioner. I have had the privilege to work alongside Bobbie on the Commissioners Court for the past 18 years. During this time she has been my friend, colleague and mentor.

And if that wasn’t enough, she has served and continues to serve on so many boards that I would be reciting them for a while if I named all of them now. 

Bobbie is known most for her servant leadership and for those wonderful prayers. She has received prayers and support from across our county, across the state and I have even heard from people around the world who are praying for her. I ask that those prayers for healing to her body, mind and spirit continue. 

I have also known her husband, Fred, my whole life and have seen up close and personal his support for Bobbie. He has backed her every step of the way. As I often say about political spouses, they might not have been elected, may not have been appointed, but they too serve. Fred Mitchell served this community all these years by sharing his Bobbie with the rest of us. 

As vibrant as Bobbie is, he was equally just as quiet. Fred loved NASCAR racing and was a huge Texas Motor Speedway fan. He also enjoyed fishing and time with his family. 

Please join me and our entire Denton County family in lifting up every member of the Mitchell family – all generations – as they traverse these uncharted waters. 

And thank you, so very much, for continuing to honor the Mitchell family’s privacy as they navigate this tragedy. She has told me she is feeling the love and prayers that are being sent her way. 

I want to provide some information related to funeral services for her husband, Fred Mitchell.

Visitation will be Friday, May 2 at Westside Baptist Church, 900 Bellaire Blvd., Lewisville, from 6-8 p.m.

The funeral will be Saturday, May 3 at Westside Baptist Church at 11 a.m. 

The burial will follow at Old Hall Cemetery, 1200 McGee Lane, Lewisville.

Many of you have asked me about flowers or memorials. Donations for her and in remembrance for Fred, are being accepted by the Lewisville Noon Rotary Club. Donations can be sent to Lewisville Noon Rotary, P.O. Box 274, Lewisville, TX 75067. The donations will be distributed, with Commissioner Mitchell’s review, to area non-profits later.

As we honor their lives and move forward together in support of Bobbie and the remaining family, let us continue to show love to others in a world that needs it now more than ever. 

Connect With Us: If you have any questions or comments, please let me hear from you. My email is andy.eads@dentoncounty.gov and my office number is 940-349-2820. For more information, register for my newsletter at Dentoncounty.gov/countyjudgenewslettersignup.

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Northlake Notes – May 2025 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/02/northlake-notes-may-2025/ Fri, 02 May 2025 19:00:23 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81596 Welcome to May!  May is a busy month for many in our area, between local elections and the last day of school for most, a lot of change can be found! First, Saturday May 3 is the last day to vote in local elections. Things that you will see on a typical Northlake resident’s ballot […]

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Welcome to May! 

May is a busy month for many in our area, between local elections and the last day of school for most, a lot of change can be found!

First, Saturday May 3 is the last day to vote in local elections. Things that you will see on a typical Northlake resident’s ballot will be three Northlake town council seats, with one of them contested. You will also see either School Bonds or School Board seats up for election. It is disappointing how so few people turn out for local elections when they most directly affect your life from tax rates and polices to what your kids are learning in school and those associated tax rates. Elected officials do not know HOW you voted, but they do know IF you voted. In other words, do not complain if you do not vote!

Soon the last day of school will be upon us, as well. This is a substantial change for many families from the daily structure of the school day to (hopefully) more fun with your family. Fortunately, we also see a small decrease in traffic during the summer months, which I am sure is welcome by all!

I unfortunately must announce some bad news. During a recent call with TxDOT, I was informed that they have delayed two major projects in our town. Most importantly they have delayed the 407 Breakout project (expanding 407 from Cleveland-Gibbs Rd. to Gateway Dr. in Argyle) from a “ready to let” date of September 2025 to September 2027. An additional two-year delay. I was pretty angry about this announcement. I immediately held talks with TxDOT, our transportation consultant and found it was yet again delayed by “utility relocations.” I do not know about you, but I have not seen a single shovel or worker working on these in the past year, when they first told us it was delayed by utility relocations. By the time you get this paper, I hope to have completed a Northlake-focused meeting with Atmos Energy, who is likely the biggest holdup in this reaction project. I hope to bring more positive news regarding this next month.

Secondarily, due to “a lack of funding” TxDOT has also paused the access roads project along I-35W. This project would ultimately be the best one to happen right now as it would completely rebuild all interchanges on FM 1171, FM 407 and Robson Ranch Roads to their ultimate version. This delay is due to TxDOT reprioritizing projects in West Texas over our fast-growing area. I can assure you that the news of both of these delays is my number one priority right now and I am working to get these dates improved. Judge Andy Eads and Commissioner Dianne Edmondson were surprised to hear this news when I broke it to them, and they are equally disappointed.

We have new businesses to share. In Northlake Commons, Branded Bagels has opened.
In Northlake Crossing, I understand that on May 8, LeRich Med Spa will be opening and is owned by a local Northlake resident.

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Flower Mound Mayor’s Message – May 2025 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/05/02/flower-mound-mayors-message-may-2025/ Fri, 02 May 2025 15:30:28 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81594 Happy May, Flower Mound! By May every year, our event season is in full swing. There are so many upcoming festivals and activities for the whole family to enjoy, so I wanted to highlight a few! Throughout the month of May, we’ll be rocking out at Heritage Park (600 Spinks Road) during our weekly Concerts […]

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Happy May, Flower Mound! By May every year, our event season is in full swing. There are so many upcoming festivals and activities for the whole family to enjoy, so I wanted to highlight a few!

Throughout the month of May, we’ll be rocking out at Heritage Park (600 Spinks Road) during our weekly Concerts in the Park series! The free concerts start at 7 p.m. on the first four Friday evenings in May and feature a variety of family-friendly, live music. Please note, glass and alcohol are prohibited on park property. Food trucks and vendors will be on site selling food for an additional price. Overflow parking for each event is at the Community Activity Center (1200 Gerault Road). Check out flowermound.gov/concerts to see the bands performing each night and find more information!

On Saturday May 3, from 7 to 10:45 a.m., join the Flower Mound Police Department for their annual Bike with the Blue event! The morning includes a 5K run, civilian bike race, kids ride with the police and a police bike race all in beautiful Lakeside DFW. To learn more and register, visit flowermound.gov/bikewiththeblue.

The following weekend, our popular Arts Festival at Heritage Park is back! On Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Heritage Park (600 Spinks Road), experience the arts together with live performances, art vendors, hands-on activities, a community art project and more. This event is free and open for all ages! 

Each year, on Memorial Day, we gather to remember and honor our fallen soldiers during a ceremony at the Flower Mound Senior Center (2701 W. Windsor Road). We invite you to join us on Monday, May 26, at 9 a.m. for this special event, which will feature an inspiring keynote speech from Doug Petersen, an Army pilot and Vietnam veteran, award-winning author and Congressional Gold Medal recipient. Don’t miss this opportunity to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. To submit a tribute to a fallen hero, please email recreation@flowermound.gov by May 12.

We round out our May events with a celebration of the start of summer at the Flower Mound Public Library on Thursday, May 29, from 5-7 p.m. We’ll be rocking it ’80s style to commemorate the Library’s 40th Anniversary! Join us at the Library (3030 Broadmoor Lane) for fun for all ages, including a glowing dance party, retro crafts, ’80s karaoke and more! This event is open to all ages.

The dedication of the Gibson-Grant Log House as an Official Texas Historical Marker has been rescheduled to Saturday, June 7 at 10 a.m. This change was made so that the ceremony does not conflict with the funeral of Fred Mitchell, Denton County Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell’s husband, which is scheduled for this Saturday, May 3. Hosted by the Flower Mound Historical Commission and the Parks Board, join us at 3615 Grant Court for a brief history of the log house, followed by fun activities and light refreshments. Overflow parking for this event will be available at Liberty Elementary School (4600 Quail Run Road). We’re looking forward to celebrating this historic event with you on June 7!

Our events continue throughout June, with a Chalk the Walk Art Contest, our annual Community Activity Center Birthday Bash and the Seniors in Motion Elite Chef Competition. Of course, our biggest event of the season is on Friday, July 4 at Bakersfield Park (1201 Duncan Lane). That’s where we’ll be celebrating Independence Fest with headliner Chris Janson, delicious food trucks, vendors, kids’ activities, a car show and an amazing fireworks show. You can learn more about all of our May and June events, Independence Fest, and more at flowermound.gov/events. I can’t wait to see you out and about this spring and summer at all of our wonderful events!

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Denton County Sheriff’s Office talks about its Explorers Program https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/04/26/denton-county-sheriffs-office-talks-about-its-explorers-program/ Sat, 26 Apr 2025 18:00:55 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81476 The Explorers Program is an educational initiative designed for young men and women aged 14 to 20, providing them with hands-on experience and insights into the field of law enforcement. Participants gain a fundamental understanding of law enforcement skills while developing positive character traits, leadership abilities and life skills and exploring potential career paths. Ultimately, […]

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The Explorers Program is an educational initiative designed for young men and women aged 14 to 20, providing them with hands-on experience and insights into the field of law enforcement. Participants gain a fundamental understanding of law enforcement skills while developing positive character traits, leadership abilities and life skills and exploring potential career paths.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower them to make ethical decisions and reach their maximum potential in any career they choose.

Recently, the Explorers hosted a dinner to recognize and thank the instructors for their commitment and to celebrate the hard work of its 16 members.

Over the past year, the Explorers collectively logged an impressive 385.5 community service hours, with one member, Corporal Landyn Horton-Kozak, contributing a remarkable 100 hours. These community service hours were earned through various events, including training sessions, recruitment events, parades, Women’s Empowerment Programs, community projects, and several activities organized by the Sheriff’s Office that required assistance or volunteers.

To acknowledge outstanding achievements, the Explorers held a vote that resulted in a tie for the Instructor of the Year award. Corporal Adam Fults from the Denton County Sheriff’s Office and Ms. Alisa Scheps were recognized with this award.

Corporal Landyn Horton-kozak, Explorer Jena Lewallen and Sergeant Ethan Schneider. (Photo courtesy of Denton County)

The Sergeant and two Corporals presented the Explorer of the Year award to Jena Lewallen for her hard work and achievements within the post. Jena earned this award because she is dedicated and highly active in community service events. In 2024, she ranked among the top five explorers, dedicating 36 hours of community service. Since joining the explorer post, Jena has grown significantly and has become a leader among her peers.

Corporal Landyn Horton-kozak, Explorer Danny Chilton and Sergeant Ethan Schneider. (Photo courtesy of Denton County)

In addition, Danny Chilton earned the title of Rookie Explorer of the Year. Danny joined our Explorer post midway through the year and quickly embraced everything it offers. He became actively involved and formed friendships with many of the other explorers. In 2024, Danny completed over 50 hours of community service and consistently performed well at all post-functions and events he attended.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must be at least 14 years old and have completed the 8th grade, with a maximum age limit of 20. Those under 18 must have parental consent to enroll. Participants are required to be enrolled in school and maintain a minimum GPA of 70 or a “C” average. A clean criminal record is necessary, along with successfully passing a background investigation. Applicants must also complete a Personal History Statement and be able to adhere to the program’s operational standards and procedures.

If you have any questions or would like to apply, contact Deputy Vance at Amber.Vance@dentoncounty.gov or 940-349-1651.

The post Denton County Sheriff’s Office talks about its Explorers Program appeared first on Cross Timbers Gazette | Southern Denton County | Flower Mound | News.

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Town of Double Oak Update – April 2025 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/2025/04/26/town-of-double-oak-update-april-2025/ Sat, 26 Apr 2025 13:00:09 +0000 https://www.crosstimbersgazette.com/?p=81472 Hello Double Oak Citizens, April strolls in like that friend who brings snacks and bad news. The flowers are blooming, the sun’s finally sticking around and everything feels fresh and alive—until your allergies turn every walk outside into a sneeze marathon. You’re sniffling through the daffodils, wondering if the trees are out to get you […]

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Hello Double Oak Citizens,

April strolls in like that friend who brings snacks and bad news. The flowers are blooming, the sun’s finally sticking around and everything feels fresh and alive—until your allergies turn every walk outside into a sneeze marathon. You’re sniffling through the daffodils, wondering if the trees are out to get you personally. Easter rolls in with chocolate, eggs and maybe a lovely brunch, offering a brief, pastel-colored distraction. But when you start to relax, Tax Day creeps up like a ninja with paperwork. April’s that perfect mix of beauty and Benadryl, sunshine and stress, where nature shows off and the IRS reminds you who’s really in charge.

Local Government Works! How about our State Government? Is it working for Double Oak?

Pending State Legislation and Potential Impact on Double Oak’s Zoning Regulations: As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping you informed, we would like to share an update regarding several bills currently being considered by the Texas Legislature that could impact zoning and land use authority across the state. These proposed laws may affect how cities like Double Oak can regulate minimum lot sizes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), such as guest houses or backyard apartments.

Minimum Lot Size Regulations – No Immediate Impact to Double Oak: Two proposed bills, House Bill 878 and Senate Bill 15, seek to limit cities’ ability to require minimum lot sizes for single-family homes. If passed, these laws would prevent cities from requiring lots larger than 2,500 square feet (HB 878) or 1,400 square feet (SB 15).

The good news is that these bills currently apply only to cities with populations of 150,000 or more, so Double Oak would not be affected. Our current minimum lot size regulations will remain in place.

Accessory Dwelling Units – Cause for Concern: A more pressing issue involves proposed legislation that could limit our town’s ability to regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which include structures like guest houses or converted garages used as residences.

Three bills in particular—HB 878, HB 1779 and SB 673—would prevent cities from regulating ADUs in many meaningful ways. These bills:

Prohibit cities from adopting ordinances that indirectly or directly limit ADUs, such as requiring owner-occupancy, minimum lot sizes, parking or density limits.

Allow only minimal regulation of ADUs (e.g., height, size, aesthetics and building and fire code compliance).

Cities are required to approve or deny permits for ADUs within 60 days; otherwise, the permit is automatically approved by law.

Empower the Texas Attorney General to enforce compliance. If a city is found in violation, it could be barred from raising its tax rate the following year.

It’s worth noting that similar legislation failed in the last session, and these bills have not yet been approved for a vote. However, the language of these proposals suggests a strong intent to limit local control over neighborhood development.

Alternative Bill Supports Local Control: In contrast, House Bill 2480 proposes to preserve municipal authority over accessory dwellings. This bill:

Allows towns like Double Oak to regulate ADUs and potentially restrict their sale or lease.

This prevents cities from regulating ADUs based on a resident’s age or employment relationship with the primary homeowner.

Explicitly maintains a city’s right to adopt ordinances related to design, permitting, and zoning for ADUs.

Does not include punitive measures, such as tax rate restrictions or automatic permit approvals.

What Residents Should Know: These proposed laws do not override private deed restrictions or HOA rules. If your subdivision restricts ADUs, those limitations would still be enforceable by your HOA or neighbors.

As a Type A general law municipality, Double Oak cannot pass a local charter or ordinance to override state law if these bills are adopted.

Legal challenges are not viable unless and until the bills are passed into law.

What Is Double Oak Doing: We are actively monitoring these bills and any others that may affect our town’s authority to manage local zoning and development. If necessary, we will coordinate with other municipalities and advocacy groups to oppose legislation that weakens local control and advocate for bills like HB 2480, which respects the voices of smaller communities.

We will keep you updated as these bills move through the legislative process.

As we enjoy all that April brings—yes, even the sneezes—we want to wish everyone a joyful and restful Easter. We’re incredibly grateful to the Double Oak Women’s Club and the Double Oak Volunteer Fire Department, whose annual Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast have become a beloved tradition for families across our community. It’s events like these that make Double Oak feel like home. So whether you’re hunting eggs, flipping pancakes or just soaking up the spring sunshine, we hope your Easter is filled with laughter, love and maybe a little less pollen.

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 patrick.johnson@doubleoak.texas.gov.

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