Desoto officials unveil one stop shop permitting model to enhance business friendliness

The DeSoto City Council held a special meeting on July 14, 2025, focusing on key operational updates and initiatives aimed at enhancing city services and economic development. The meeting began with discussions on police and fire department staffing, particularly addressing the impact of officer attrition on overtime costs. City officials acknowledged that while the police department is proactive in hiring to fill vacancies, the need for coverage during training and unexpected absences contributes to increased overtime expenses. The council agreed to include detailed staffing and overtime reports in future quarterly updates.

Next, the council reviewed the progress of the "1 Stop Shop" permitting model, a significant initiative aimed at streamlining the permit process for businesses. Development Services Director Ahmed Al Casey presented the model, which aims to facilitate collaborative plan reviews among various city departments. The initiative is expected to enhance customer experience and reduce processing times for permits. The council discussed the importance of Lean Six Sigma methodologies in this effort, emphasizing the goal of minimizing waste and improving efficiency. Al Casey noted that the project is being developed in-house, saving the city approximately $150,000 compared to hiring external consultants.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing development of the Hampton Road corridor, with Economic Development Corporation Director Matt Carlson providing updates on funding and project timelines. The council is working on creating a Request for Proposals (RFP) to attract developers to the area, with a focus on ensuring that infrastructure improvements align with new developments. Carlson highlighted the importance of community engagement and effective marketing strategies to promote the corridor's potential.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to improving city operations and fostering a business-friendly environment. The next steps include finalizing the 1 Stop Shop model and advancing the Hampton Road development plans, with further updates expected in the coming months.