The DeSoto City Council convened for its regular meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 21, addressing a range of issues, including financial updates, community initiatives, and the approval of several key projects.
The meeting, led by Mayor Rachel Proctor, included presentations, public comments, and discussions on the city’s future development.
Financial Reports Highlight Revenue and Expenditures
LaKeita Sutton, Assistant Finance Director, presented the city’s financial reports for November and December 2024.
The reports showed that the city’s General Fund had collected 4.6% of its revenue by the end of November, with property tax collections at 1.6 million out of 40 million.
By December, property tax collections had increased to 48.4%, with sales tax revenue also showing significant growth.
Sutton noted that the city’s expenditure was on track, with the General Fund at 88.5% of its budget by the end of November.
The Public Utility Fund and Sanitation Fund were also performing as expected, with water sales and sewer service revenues aligning with projections.
Council members raised questions about specific line items, including expenses related to the Senior Center and the Regional Jail, which were higher than anticipated.
Sutton committed to providing detailed follow-up information by the end of the week.
Community Initiatives and Presentations
The council recognized Callie Giddings, a fourth-grade student from Woodridge Elementary, as the Student Ambassador for the meeting.
Giddings, a talented athlete and scholar, was celebrated for her achievements, including qualifying for the AAU Junior Olympics.
She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to address the council and encouraged her peers to work hard and pursue their dreams.
The council also heard a presentation on the city’s participation in Dallas County’s Gun Surrender Program, funded by a $10,000 grant from Walmart.org through the Found A Way Foundation.
DeSoto Police Chief Joe Costa outlined plans for the program, scheduled for Feb. 15, 2025, at the former East Middle School campus.
The program, which allows residents to anonymously surrender firearms in exchange for cash, aims to reduce gun violence and improve community safety.
The council unanimously approved the acceptance of the grant funds.
Approval of Key Projects
The council approved several items on the consent agenda, including the designation of the Daily Commercial Record as the city’s official newspaper of record, with the Irving Rambler and Dallas Morning News as secondary options.
The decision followed the cessation of the Focus Daily News, which had previously served as the city’s primary publication.
Additionally, the council authorized the city manager to negotiate and execute a contract with WRG, LLC, for the purchase and installation of furniture at the Aquatic and Recreation Center at McCowan Park.
The 346,347.19 contract is part of the broader 346,347.19 contract is part of the broader52 million project, which is on track for a March 2026 grand opening.
Sidney Elliott, Youth and Business Coordinator, highlighted the careful selection process for the furniture, emphasizing durability and alignment with the city’s branding.
Public Comments on Thornton Tree Golf Club
During the citizen appearances portion of the meeting, residents Trey Cockrell and Pam Smith urged the council to support the revitalization of the Thornton Tree Golf Club.
Both speakers emphasized the economic and community benefits of restoring the golf course, which has fallen into disrepair under current ownership.
Cockrell argued that a revitalized Thornton Tree would enhance DeSoto’s image, attract visitors, and boost local businesses.
Smith, a real estate agent, warned that the closure of the golf course could lead to a significant drop in property values and tax revenue.
Executive Session and Future Actions
The council concluded the public portion of the meeting and moved into an executive session to discuss economic development opportunities, including potential financial incentives for a business prospect referred to as “Project Recreation.”
The council also planned to continue its annual review of the municipal judge, which had been postponed from an earlier session.
Community Announcements
Mayor Proctor and council members shared several community updates, including the upcoming State of the City address on Feb. 13, 2025, and the Daddy-Daughter Dance scheduled for Feb. 8.
The council also recognized Council Member Crystal Chisholm for her appointment to the Texas Municipal League’s Budget and Audit Committee, a prestigious role that will allow her to contribute to the financial stewardship of the league on a statewide level.