The Denton City Council held a special meeting on September 30, 2025, focusing on several key topics, including a closed session to discuss public utility matters and economic development. The meeting began with a brief closed session where no official actions were taken.
Following the closed session, the council recognized the city’s designation as the "Halloween Capital of Texas" through a proclamation presented by Representative Richard Hayes. This recognition, established by House Concurrent Resolution 86, acknowledges Denton's transformation into a Halloween destination throughout October, featuring a month-long series of events and activities. Representative Hayes highlighted the success of last year's inaugural event, which attracted over 660,000 visitors.
Gary Pack, the Director of Parks and Recreation, provided an overview of the upcoming Halloween festivities, noting an increase in events from 200 last year to approximately 300 this year. He emphasized community involvement in various projects, including the "Scary Chair Orchard" and a haunted downtown diorama. The city aims to enhance visitor experiences with new attractions and activities, encouraging residents and visitors to participate throughout the month.
The meeting concluded with excitement for the upcoming Halloween events, which include a block party and a pumpkin drop scheduled for October 1. The city council expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of various departments and community members in making Denton a vibrant Halloween destination.