Town of Little Elm Strategic Report 2023 by Town of Little Elm

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

Strategic Report

2023

A comprehensive overview of the Town of Little Elm’s progress toward the goals defined in our Strategic Plan.

TABLE OF

Contents HISTORY & POPULATION

MISSION & CORE VALUES

LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

MEET THE TOWN COUNCIL

A WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT

ENSURE STRONG RELATIONSHIPS

RECREATION & LEISURE

OPERATIONAL INTEGRITY

EXPANDING IDENTITY

EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICES

THAT’S A WRAP!

History The Town of Little Elm has a long and rich history that stretches back over 175 years. From a small settlement chartered as part of the Peters Colony to the bustling town we see today, Little Elm has changed in size, appearance, and population. Surrounded by the beautiful waters of Lake Lewisville, Little Elm is a town that transcends time. Chartered in 1841 and settled in 1844, the Town of Little Elm grew from a few hundred people in 1966 to more than 45,000 in just 30 years, making it one of the fastest growing cities in Texas.

GROWING

44.5K

47.3K

50.3K

51.6K

54.4K

56.3K

Population

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

Mission The mission of the Town of Little Elm is to build on our unique lake opportunities and hometown charm, encourage diverse housing options and

of life.

Core Values

The vision of the Town of Little

INTEGRITY

business opportunities, and provide an unmatched quality

Elm is a distinct and desirable lakeside destination for all people to live and play while enjoying a safe, vibrant, and welcoming community.

We are honest, loyal, trustworthy, transparent, fair and open minded, and have a culture of accountability. We keep our word and admit our mistakes. We stand up for what is right even in the face of a challenge, and do what is right, even if no one notices.

CUSTOMER SERVICE We are respectful, positive, attentive, approachable, responsive, and empathetic. We focus on being able to assist internal and external customers, not simply accommodate them. Whether the answer involves going the extra mile or sometimes even delivering bad news, we are courteous, patient, humble, and professional.

EFFICIENCY We recognize that we are entrusted with resources ultimately owned by the community, and as stewards of those, are committed to use the minimum resources required to realize the maximum result. We will find the shortest path on a route or in a process, and operate without waste, with proper use of taxpayer dollars, and without compromising quality.

INNOVATION We have a willingness to grow, to explore new ideas and to challenge the status quo. We are open to change though we do not seek change unnecessarily. We allow the freedom to try new things, and recognize that through creativity and reasonable risk, we will build a stronger, healthier Town together. We are an organization dedicated to learning and continuous improvement.

STRATEGIC REPORT

CURTIS J. CORNELIOUS Mayor

THE MAYOR’S

Letter Welcome to the Town of Little Elm—the Town with The Lake Attitude! But what is a Lake Attitude, exactly? To us, a Lake Attitude means that we’re laid back, relaxed, and oneof-a-kind. A Lake Attitude also means that we value our community. We take great pride in the quality of life here and strive to ensure everyone feels welcome and safe in our town. We believe in enriching the lives of all who live and play here by providing a wide variety of outdoor activities, world-class special events, and many fun opportunities all year. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy nature or to experience our town’s unique culture and vibrant character, you’ll find it here in Little Elm. Little Elm is a diverse community that provides housing options for all ages. We’re also home to a thriving business community and a great place to do business. Our Economic Development

Corporation and Chamber of

Our organization is committed to

Commerce are committed to

offering various recreational and

bringing diverse businesses and

leisure activities for different socio-

development to the community to

economic and interest groups. We

meet the needs of residents and

prioritize utilizing the opportunities

visitors alike.

provided by the unique shoreline

We also take pride in our

of Lewisville Lake.

amenities. Make a splash at our

We will strive to maintain

indoor waterpark, The Cove at The

operational integrity, viability,

Lakefront®, enjoy the sun and sand

and efficiency while addressing

at Little Elm Beach, catch a concert

long-term financial obligations.

at The Lawn™, hit a trail for a hike

Our goal is to preserve our

or bike ride, or even pull up a chair on one of our Lakefront District restaurant patios.

unique aesthetic and uphold high development standards to establish a strong sense of

Little Elm is also home to excellent

community and promote the

school districts, with Little Elm ISD,

growth and identity of Little Elm.

Frisco ISD, and Denton ISD schools

We will strive to provide excellent

within our borders.

public services while meeting the

Myself, our Town Council, and the

needs of our growing community

entire Town of Little Elm team are

and maintaining a high standard

committed to serving you and all

of quality.

stakeholders at the highest level

We invite all those who visit or

possible. To that end, my foremost focus is to provide a safe and welcoming environment and the highest quality of life possible for our residents and visitors alike. We prioritize building and maintaining strong relationships with the community, region, and other entities with common interests.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

live here to embrace the Lake Attitude—to take the time to slow down, enjoy the beauty around us, and appreciate all that the Town of Little Elm has to offer. Welcome home.

MEET THE

Town Council

The Little Elm Town Council is an elected, policy- and law-making body with the power to pass town laws and ordinances. At regular meetings, which are open to the public, the Council hears requests and grievances of local residents, as well as receives updates from Town staff on projects

JAMELL T. JOHNSON Mayor Pro Tem

and initiatives. Members serve three-year terms.

& At Large Place 1

ANDREW EVANS District 5

TONY SINGH District 2

LISA G. NORMAN District 4

NEIL BLAIS District 3

MICHEL HAMBRICK At Large Place 6

STRATEGIC REPORT

Provide a safe & welcoming environment

FOR LITTLE ELM RESIDENTS & VISITORS

Little Elm will be a community that is safe and welcoming to all who live here and visit. A safe and welcoming environment is accomplished by upholding a strong sense of community with engaged residents, maintaining clean and aesthetically welcoming corridors and neighborhoods, preserving a low crime rate, and ensuring that public safety officials are courteous, professional, and ethical while providing equitable service to all.

FIRE STATION 4/PUBLIC SAFETY ANNEX The project is located near the intersection of FM 720 and Ryan Spiritas Parkway (currently under construction). The preliminary project design program includes a single-story, 15,500-square-foot building with two double-deep fire apparatus bays serving as a fire station and police substation. The design will also feature exterior site improvements and options, including alternate items, such as a fueling station, covered parking, additional apparatus bay, and storage mezzanine. The construction manager-at-risk has been selected for this project and the schematic design and initial cost estimating has been completed. Estimated completion of the project is April 2025.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

SPECIAL EVENTS RE-IMAGINED In 2023, we elevated our events to a world-class standard, resulting in a magnetic pull that drew attendees from all corners of Texas, other states, and even other countries. We added three new events to Little Elm Park— The Lakefront Grand Prix, Kids’ Tri, and Mexican Independence Day—and re-imagined our Big Easy, Autumn Fest, and Craft Brew & Que to marquee level.

ANNUAL STREET MAINTENANCE

PAVEMENT MARKINGS

$222,514

2-COURSE CHIP SEAL: Subgrade Mix, Blade & Chip Seal

12,951 yd 2 or $574,213

ADA RAMP REPLACEMENT

13 RAMPS at $3,350 each = $43,550 total

CONCRETE REPLACEMENT: Sidewalk & Street Panel

7,964 yd 2 or $1,200,320

CONCRETE LIFTING & S T A B I L I Z A T I O N (Foam Injection)

22,963 lbs or $93,000

STRATEGIC REPORT

Provide a safe & welcoming environment for Little Elm residents & visitors

HARRY POTTER: A FORBIDDEN FOREST EXPERIENCE Following a massively successful run in the UK, New York, Brussels, and Washington D.C., Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment, in partnership with Fever and IMG, has announced that Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience announced that it would open in Little Elm in 2023 for Wizarding World fans of all ages to enjoy in the awe-inspiring woods of Little Elm Park. Inspired by the iconic Forbidden Forest and featuring creatures from the Harry Potter™ and Fantastic Beasts™ series, mesmerizing lights transformed the landscape into a magical outdoor trail. Visitors discovered some of their favorite moments from the Forbidden Forest, encountered mystical creatures such as Hippogriffs, unicorns, and Nifﬂers, and practiced casting their own spells. This event is expected to bring more than 200,000 people to the Little Elm area during its run from October 2023 to February 2024.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Designing a traffic signal to be installed at Main Street and Eldorado Parkway to assist with traffic management getting in and out of The Lakefront™. • Completed $1.8 M of street, sidewalk, curb, and gutter replacement as part of this year’s Annual Street Maintenance Program. • Design is in progress for the reconstruction of King Road from Witt Road to Rose Lane. Funding is provided through agreements between the Town, the City of Frisco, and Denton County. • Completed the full reconstruction of Woodrow Circle, including utilities. • Established a new patrol district for Spiritas to increase service levels in the northwest portion of Town. • Participated in the annual National Night Out block parties. • Hosted a weekly practicum with the Little Elm ISD Criminal Justice Program. • Facilitated the Chamber’s concert series in the months of June and September. • Participated in the Chamber’s annual State of the Town that brought together Town officials, elected representatives at the local, county, and state level, as well as residents and business owners.

STRATEGIC REPORT

Ensure strong relationships WITHIN THE COMMUNITY & REGION Little Elm will strive to ensure positive relationships within the community and region. Strong and positive relationships are accomplished by conducting business with a high level of integrity, promoting open communication, transparency, partnerships, and displaying a high level of courteousness in all of our interactions. We will operate with a partner mentality with all entities with which we share a common interest.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Hosted the 8th class of Citizens Government Academy for a total of 116 graduates. • Hosted the 15th class of Citizens Fire Academy for a total of 193

• Established the Little Elm Youth Council to represent the voice of the youth. • Hosted a youth police

graduates. • Hosted the 9th class of the Citizens Police Academy for a total of 134 graduates. • Team members are active in the Texas City Manager Association, one serves as the Chair and another as a member of the Ethics Committee. • Team members are active in the North Texas City Management Associate, one serving as the President and many attending quarterly meetings.

academy and continued the police and fire explorer programs. • Hosted the first Veterans Banquet and second Veterans Honor Walk to recognize the veterans in our community. Additionally, the Veterans Committee

• Updated the Communications & Engagement plan that

hosted four quarterly socials

outlines the Town’s goal to inform, engage, and connect

to provide opportunities for

with stakeholders.

veterans in the community to meet each other.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

2023 BY THE NUMBERS

FIRE TOTAL CALLS

5,264

ANIMAL SERVICES TOTAL CALLS

6,078

AVERAGE LIVE RELEASE RATE

96%

POLICE TOTAL CALLS

85,905

4,086 MEMBERS AT

4,045

TOTAL COMMUNITY INTEGRITY CASES

1,512

MEMBERS AT

97%

AVERAGE COMPLIANCE RATE

90,893

TOTAL LIBRARY VISITORS

1,197

TOTAL RESIDENTIAL CERTIFICATES OF OCCUPANCY ISSUED

129

TOTAL COMMERCIAL CERTIFICATES OF OCCUPANCY ISSUED

STRATEGIC REPORT

Maximize community recreation & LEISURE ACTIVITIES Little Elm will maximize recreational and leisure activities for the region. Recreational and leisure activities will be provided for a broad range of socio-economic and interest groups, focusing on maximizing the unique shoreline recreation opportunities on Lewisville Lake.

THE LAWN AT THE LAKEFRONT™ In 2023, we also celebrated the grand opening of The Lawn at The Lakefront™. The addition of this park sparks a new era of communityfocused events in Little Elm. The project aimed to create a space where residents and visitors can come together to enjoy dinner at local restaurants, attend a concert, explore a Boho or farmers’ market, or catch a movie night. The two-acre park features an artificial turf surface, a performance pavilion, a video wall, a state-of-the-art playground, lawn games, and seating. It will be home to more than 100 community events each year.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

LAKESIDE SPORTS COMPLEX In 2020, Little Elm entered into a long-term lease with the Little Elm Independent School District to use the land at Lakeside Middle School. A Lakeside Sports Master Plan was developed, showing the potential improvements to expand the Town’s youth sports facilities. This project was part of the 2021 Certificate of Obligation issuance and included improvements to the Lakeside Middle School softball facilities. These improvements include a three-field youth softball complex with synthetic turf fields, concession/restrooms, and shade structures for the spectators. This project also includes a synthetic turf multipurpose athletic field, a loop trail around the property, six outdoor pickle ball courts, two tennis courts, and a basketball court.

COTTONWOOD PARK The Town Council adopted the Cottonwood Park Master Plan in 2019. The project is expected to be complete in late 2024 or early 2025 and will include new trails, pavilions, parking, a playground, restrooms, site amenities, and general improvements.

STRATEGIC REPORT

Maximize community recreation & leisure activities

ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Partnered with EDC in the recruitment of potential developers for the RV park. • Design has been completed for overflow parking and trash compactors and is in progress for campground improvements and amphitheater upgrades at Little Elm Park. • Partnered with the EDC to meet with potential hoteliers to find the right fit for the land next to The Cove™. • The process has started to update the adopted 2016 Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Master Plan. This work will be performed in two phases that includes an Inventory and Needs Assessment, as well as opportunities for community input. • Added Muscle Mania, a weightlifting community challenge in the fall focused on getting stronger and building lean muscle mass in response to the community’s request for a second fitness challenge from The Rec™.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

Maintain operational integrity & VIABILITY Little Elm will ensure the Town’s financial and operational processes’ integrity and long-term viability. Little Elm’s operating and financial soundness will be ensured by maintaining a competitive tax rate, aggressively recruiting selective retail and small business economic development prospects, planning for long-term financial obligations, and maintaining a level of operational efficiency.

FOUR-CENT TAX RATE REDUCTION It has been the goal to keep the tax rate competitive with other cities and towns while providing adequate revenue to fund the needs of a rapidly growing community now and in the future. This year, the Town adopted a lower tax rate of $.589900 and is still able to meet those objectives. This is the lowest tax rate since 2009, resulting in a four-cent reduction, and is the largest reduction in 15 years. The Town was able to adopt a tax rate lower than the voter-approval tax rate, prepare for its future obligations, and adhere to the Town’s long and short-term operational plan. The adopted tax rate still provides an anticipated revenue in the tax levy for operations and debt service commitments.

STRATEGIC REPORT

Maintain operational integrity & viability

NEW BUSINESSES IN 2023

H&R BLOCK HYDERABAD HOUSE JAKE’S GAMEDAY

575 PIZZERIA

JET’S PIZZA

ACCENT MUSIC ACADEMY

KIDSTRONG

BALLOONS BY J

KINGSTONE SUPPLY

BENTLEY & LACE

LEVEL UP GOLF

BOJANGLES

LIQUOR KING

balanced budget (technically

BROW & WAX WIZARD

LIVEWELL ANIMAL

a one-year budget and a

CHI KUNG REFLEXOLOGY

A FIVE-YEAR BALANCED BUDGET Since our 2016-2017 budget, our goal has been to successfully present a five-year

four-year financial plan) to the Council for consideration. The approach aims to ensure that we provide appropriate services in Little Elm’s highgrowth environment but in

CJJF JIU-JITSU CKV PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY COMHOME TECH SOLUTIONS

NAIL PALACE PIONEER MEDICAL RTI EXPANSION SALAD & GO

a way that ensures future

DESI CHOWRASTHA

SLIM CHICKENS

services’ sustainability. This

DICKEY’S BBQ

STARBUCKS

DICKEY’S BBQ 380

STATE FARM

is particularly important as we continue expanding services in the northern part

DUMONT CREAMERY & CAFE

of the community and extend contractual services to various partners in our region.

EMY CELLPHONE REPAIR ERIKA’S HAIR SALON AND BARBERSHOP

HOSPITAL

INVESTMENTS STRAWBERRIES AND BOUQUETS SUNIKSHA TECHNOLOGIES TECHNOSOL

ETHOS GOLF

THE ELM BY WYNDHAM

FLOUR POWER

THE WOODSHED

FOODISTAAN

THRIVE FITNESS

GIMME TACO

VISTA PHYSICAL THERAPY

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Process-mapped the development review process and updated the flow chart to improve efficiency and customer service.

• The Town continues to budget/plan in future years a strong 25% reserves

• Created internal and external GIS mapping applications for

as outlined in the Town

various departments and public users and made significant

Charter. We anticipate to

updates to infrastructure asset databases to improve

end up this year with a

accessibility of information. • EDC has budgeted in the FY2023-2024 year to allow for site visits to home offices and headquarters rather than relying only on cold calls and emailing proposals.

reserve in the General Fund of 70% while we plan to draw down those reserves in outer years to support the

• EDC is actively recruiting for the two pad sites around The Lawn™ and an additional entertainment option. Staff is currently working with Dunaway on a rendering of the concept that

services of the Town. • The Town has planned for next year to bring in house

provides for multiple dining options with smaller footprints.

a Process Improvement

• The EDC is working with BioTX to help bring medical

and Innovation Manager

manufacturing and ancillary businesses to Little Elm and

that will look at the Town’s

connecting them with RTI for potential expansion of their

operations to provide

business park.

efficiencies that will provide a greater rate of return and

• The Town has maintained a very strong rating from S&P and Moody’s that allows the Town to issue debt at a lower cost and in turn reduce the impact to the resident’s I&S rate. We are also planning on retiring up to $1,000,000 of debt early next year that also provides the Town about $291,000 of interest saving over the life of the debt.

value to the Town. • Request for Proposal has been developed for a 380 corridor study and the procurement process has started.

• The adopted FY 2023-2024 budget established a new Facility Maintenance and Replacement Fund (FMRF) by seeding the startup of $500,000 for future facility maintenance and equipment needs within the Town.

• The Lakefront District™ was added to the Request for Proposal for the Comprehensive Plan Update.

STRATEGIC REPORT

Promote & expand LITTLE ELMS’ IDENTITY Maintain Little Elm’s distinctive look and high development standards that provide vibrant, high-quality neighborhoods and development. Create a sense of place and brand identity that extends beyond our borders.

WAYFINDING SIGNAGE PROJECT The project consists of installing new community wayfinding signs throughout the Town. The goal of the project is to provide attractive and informative signage directing the public to Town buildings, amenities, landmarks, and other destinations. The project includes updates to several existing monument signs within our limits.

TRAIL SIGNAGE As part of the Wayfinding Signage Project, ground-mounted signage will be placed along our trail system and within our parks to direct users to nearby points of interest.

WEBSITE CONSOLIDATION To create more cohesive marketing and modernize the look of our websites, we consolidated the websites for The Rec at The Lakefront™, The Cove at The Lakefront®, and The Lakefront™ from three separate platforms to one umbrella. This allows us to better market and cross-market these brands and maintain them in-house more easily. These new designs enable users to find information more readily on events, programs, and services, thus driving further interest in these amenities and destinations.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

SCENIC CITY In 2023, we received the

Our landscaping regulations

Additionally, our sign ordinances

Platinum Scenic City designation

along major roadways and

are detailed to prohibited

from Scenic Texas—moving up

parking lots and our tree

signs such as roof-mounted

two levels from Silver in 2022.

preservation and mitigation

or restricted illuminating signs

The Scenic Texas program

allow us to enhance and

restrictions and enforcement.

supports and recognizes Texas

make our community more

Finally, we are deliberate in

municipalities that implement

aesthetically pleasing and

our decision-making process

high-quality scenic standards for

environmentally conscious.

to make better decisions

public spaces, enhance visual

regarding transportation and

standards alongside roadways,

infrastructure development that

and improve streetscapes that

can impact the environment,

provide residents and visitors

traffic, and the community’s

with a better quality of life.

well-being.

We are proud to say we met all 10 essential tenets. In particular, our lake offers unique opportunities for open space, parks, and amenities.

STRATEGIC REPORT

Promote & expand Little Elms’ identity

ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Partnered with EDC to invite “influencers” to visit Little Elm and make arrangements with the local businesses to coordinate opportunities for those influencers to experience the activities, the restaurants, and the amenities. • Partnered with EDC to work with local businesses in the

• Installed new electronic

Lakefront to complete the Lakefront Lighting project.

message boards at key

• Request for Proposal for the Comprehensive Plan Update has been developed and the procurement process has started. • Adopted short-term rental ordinance amendment to assist with enforcement. • Partnered with Granicus to monitor and enforce short-term rental regulations.

intersections to provide information to residents and visitors on Town events and programs. • Reviewing the 2021 Building Codes in anticipation of adopting the 2024 Building

• Acquired digital ticket writers for Community Integrity team members. • Completed Phase 1 of the Green Ribbon project and currently awarding the contract for Phase 2 to elevate the look of the medians on FM423.

Codes. • In the process of updating Town Construction Standards and Ordinances. • Completed an update of the inspection review checklist. • Developed Request for Proposal to create a Unified Development Code and have started the procurement process.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

Ensure excellence in public services WHILE KEEPING UP WITH THE GROWTH IN THE COMMUNITY

CORE VALUE AWARD WINNERS

HEART OF SERVICE Jenny Glinka & Fleet

Little Elm will ensure that high-quality public services are maintained by addressing growth needs in infrastructure, and by attracting, retaining, equipping, and empowering a workforce that delivers

RUNNING WITH SCISSORS Sarah Nolting & Parks Maintenance

excellent service for an excellent value.

CULTURAL ROAD MAP In 2019, we created the first version of our Cultural Road Map. This document

TRUSTWORTHY SERVICES

defines who we are, and is an intentional blueprint of

Crystal Williamson

organization’s culture. Our

& Development Review Team

Cultural Road Map is an explanation of our culture of Servant Leadership, our Core Values, our Code of Ethics, our behaviors and beliefs, and our expectations of those we employ. This year, we revised this document to emphasize on our Team Member

SERVANT LEADERSHIP Jon Bailey, Sean Kinney & Information Technology

VISIONARY Drew Bailey & Library

Experience.

PUBLIC WORKS

STRATEGIC REPORT

Ensure excellence in public services while keeping up with the growth in the community

BUILDING EXPANSION The project includes remodeling and expanding the existing Public Works Service Center to provide additional meeting, office, and training space. The project will also have a new water testing laboratory and bunkroom. It is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in early 2024.

LONG-TERM FACILITIES STUDY The Long-Term Facilities Study aims to determine the Town’s long-term facility needs and opportunities to provide enhanced community services and organization-building spaces to accommodate future growth. The study looks at our existing town buildings—primarily our Town Hall, the Community Center, and a property south of the Senior Center. Town staff is working with architects and site design consultants in the facility planning and design recommendations.

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Hired the Town’s first Culture and Team Development Manager

held in Little Elm Park,

to focus on team member development.

team members:

• 25 team members have obtained new certifications in their

» Installed two new water

designated fields. • Installed digital signage in team member break rooms to provide an additional communication tool. • Completed the first year of our new annual pavement marking replacement program.

to provide service to the trails. » Installed 14 bores walking trail for cable

Parkway to eliminate trip hazards by using 23,000 pounds of

management.

injectable foam.

» Installed all all-weather

• Completed SCADA system design study.

driveway for large trucks

• Completed west side water system study to identify needs to improve service delivery.

to utilize during the event. • Completed design of the

• Completed the Interlocal Agreement with Mustang Water to

Mansell Pump Station piping

provide an emergency water interconnect.

system improvements.

Completed the Hill Town Drainage Study to identify the needs to improve drainage and pave the streets.

lines and four meters

conduits under the

• Began sidewalk and storm drain inlet repairs along Eldorado

•

• For the Harry Potter event

• Added parental leave, volunteer leave, and two additional holidays – Juneteenth and Veterans Day.

STRATEGIC REPORT

TOWN OF LITTLE ELM

THAT’S A

Wrap!

We hope you enjoyed our 2023 Strategic Report and learning about the progress we’ve made and projects completed this year. The Town of Little Elm has been fortunate to have a strong, committed team who are dedicated to making Little Elm the best possible place to live and play. We are proud of our progress in the past year and are excited to continue working towards our Strategic Goals. We have established a solid foundation for our future success and look forward to continuing our efforts to move Little Elm forward.

STRATEGIC REPORT