Denton's Economic Development Partnership Board convened on May 14, 2025, to address critical issues affecting the city's growth and infrastructure. A key highlight from the meeting was the acknowledgment of recent challenges in attracting new businesses, with two potential leads lost due to higher land prices and infrastructure concerns. The board emphasized the need for improved wastewater infrastructure to meet the demands of prospective companies.
During the meeting, it was reported that Denton received 15 leads from the governor's office, but none resulted in conversions this month. The average capital investment for these leads was over $441 million, with the potential to create approximately 550 jobs. The board expressed a desire to increase the number of successful conversions, aiming for at least five this year.
In addition to business recruitment, the board discussed the potential increase in Texas's film incentive, which could significantly benefit Denton. The proposed incentive would rise to $500 million over two years, aimed at attracting more film projects to the area. This initiative is supported by notable figures, including actor Matthew McConaughey, who has been advocating for the increase in the Texas legislature.
The meeting also touched on upcoming events, including a foreign trade zone webinar designed to help local businesses navigate customs duties. The board is actively working on a competitiveness incentive study and is exploring partnerships to enhance Denton's infrastructure, particularly in utilities.
As the board looks ahead, there is a clear focus on addressing the obstacles that hinder business development, such as utility availability and land readiness. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration between city departments and stakeholders to create a more attractive environment for businesses, ultimately aiming to boost Denton's economic landscape.