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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
VOLUME 6, ISSUE 5 APRIL 12 MAY 8, 2023
Service industry hurdles
The Root Cellar opens second location
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Thru the Chute cardboard boat race returns April 29 LOCAL VOTER GUIDE 2023
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"YOU HAVE TO ADAPT AND ACHIEVE AND OVERCOME, OR YOU’RE NOT GOING TO BE HERE.” CHAD NILAND, OWNER OF THE DOWNTOWNER
May election sample ballot
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The Downtowner, a restaurant in downtown New Braunfels, went through sta ng and in ation challenges at the onset of the COVID 19 pandemic. Owner Chad Niland sorts through ticket orders as line cooks Jose Mariscal and Seneca Alexander work in the kitchen.
SIERRA MARTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT
New Braunfels restaurants persist, innovate after pandemic challenges
BY SIERRA MARTIN
employees spending those wages in the economy, that money ripples throughout the local economy.” Hines said restaurants in the area provide a unique experience for locals and visitors alike. “We have a broad array of types of cuisines and expe- riences,” Hines said. “When I just think about how you can dine and hop over to a dance hall, you can dine on a river; you can dine and go bowling; you can try all these incredible types of cuisine, many of them within walking distance to create this incredible walkable experience, which is something that New Braunfels has to o er. And it’s just pretty special.” The industry had a gross regional product—or market value—of $339 million in Comal County, which is a 55.5% increase since 2020, showing strong nancial growth despite sta ng, supply and in ationary constraints.
The dining industry across the country has faced mul- tiple challenges in the past couple of years due to COVID- 19, sta ng struggles and in ation leading to higher operating costs. Around 100 restaurants in New Braunfels have not been spared in the obstacles faced by the dining indus- try; many local restaurants have had to get creative to persevere through the region’s economic challenges. Mallory Hines, vice president of tourism development at the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, said the dining industry in New Braunfels is one of the largest labor forces in the city and a top 10 industry in terms of gross regional product. “Food and beverage has a major economic output,” Hines said. “From the restaurant buying the raw prod- uct to the consumer buying the meal to the wages to the
Find a trail with our Comal County Hiking Guide
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Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries
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THIS ISSUE
MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Heather Demere EDITOR Eric Weilbacher REPORTER Sierra Martin, Amira Van Leeuwen Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes. MANAGING EDITOR Joe Warner COPY EDITOR Kasey Salisbury ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Rachal Elliott CONTACT US 16225 Impact Way, Ste. 1, Pflugerville, TX 78660 • 512-989-6808 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES nbfnews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING nbfads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising EMAIL NEWSLETTERS communityimpact.com/newsletter SUPPORT US Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron GRAPHIC DESIGNER Roger Ibanez ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kayla Brooks METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Travis Baker ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH
FROM HEATHER: In this edition we put together a hiking trail guide. The current temperatures are perfect for a hike. We also share Q&A’s for several local races up for election May 6. Early voting will begin April 24. Heather Demere, GENERAL MANAGER
FROM ERIC: For our front-page story we take a look at trends in local dining since the height of the coronavirus pandemic, how they adapted and also the way the industry has changed. We also take a look at Otomi—an espresso trailer specializing in coffee grown in Mexico—that mostly sets up downtown but also moves its trailer to local events. Eric Weilbacher, EDITOR
"Our story is just beginning. " - JOHN GARRETT, COMMUNITY IMPACT CEO & FOUNDER, AS QUOTED BY TEXAS MONTHLY
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830-625-5321
Downtown New Braunfels, Tx
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION • APRIL 2023
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
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CREEKSIDE CROSSING
AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN COMMUNITY IMPACT
that can balance your temperature, sense your movements and adjust rmness. 830-302-2311. www.sleepnumber.com 5 Faust Brewing Co. , located at 499 S. Castell Ave., reopened April 1 for the rst time since COVID-19 closed its doors. General Manager Brandi White said the brewery and the tasting room got a “facelift,” and the beer garden was also renovated. The tasting room has new countertops, and the beer garden doubled in size. The beer garden also has a venue. Faust Brewing Co. also updated its liquor license, allowing it to serve an array of mixed drinks. A food trailer sells American pub fare food items with a German twist, including burgers, fries, tacos, spinach artichoke dip, smoked wings and sandwiches. 830-609-9086. 6 HTeaO will be opening its rst loca- tion in New Braunfels at 1042 FM 306. The business has a large menu featuring both hot and iced teas and co ee. HTeaO also has a secret menu and releases new specialty drinks every month. The business does not have an opening date set yet. HTeaO has over 100 locations throughout Texas and surrounding states. www.hteao.com 7 Little Land in New Braunfels is opening a new location in May or June at 2009 S. Walnut Ave., Ste. 103. The business allows children to play with a purpose by using equipment designed by pediatric therapists to assist children in reaching developmental milestones. Little Land o ers pediatric therapy, classes and programs, parties, and open play. www.littlelandplaygym.com www.faustbrewing.com COMING SOON
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NOW OPEN 1 The Root Cellar Cafe opened its New Braunfels location in the former New Braunfels Smokehouse restaurant and retail space at 1090 N. Business I-35 on March 7. The restaurant has had a downtown San Marcos location for almost 20 years and serves American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 830-632-5114. www.rootcellarcafe.com
2 Los Dos Garcias restaurant, located at 1101 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels, held its grand opening March 24. The restaurant sells a variety of Mexican dish- es, including menudo, chalupas, crispy tacos and enchiladas. Owner Roy Garcia Jr. said he has always dreamed of opening a restaurant. 830-214-0108. Facebook: Search Los Dos Garcias 3 The Creekside location of Hotworx , located at 615 Oxford Drive, Ste. 104,
New Braunfels, held its grand opening March 24. The 24-hour infrared tness studio o ers isometric workouts, includ- ing hot Pilates, bar and yoga alongside high-intensity classes, including hot row- ing and cycling through virtual instruc- tion. 830-481-0472. www.hotworx.net/ studio/newbraunfels-creekside 4 Sleep Number opened its rst location in New Braunfels, located at 229 FM 306, Ste. 105, in February. The business sells mattresses with features
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COMPILED BY SIERRA MARTIN, AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN & ERIC WEILBACHER
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Los Dos Garcias
Faust Brewing Co.
The new cocktail bar has food trailers and live music on weekends.
AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN COMMUNITY IMPACT
AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN COMMUNITY IMPACT
SIERRA MARTIN COMMUNITY IMPACT
RELOCATIONS 8 River City New Braunfels Church will be relocating to the Village Ven- ue at Freiheit Village, located at 2032 Central Plaza, New Braunfels. The church plans to permanently move to the new location from its 1600 River Road lo- cation. The rst Sunday service was held March 26. The venue will continue to be available to rent for community events. 830-200-0824. www.rcnb.org 9 The Crisis Center of Comal Coun- ty will be relocating to 655 Landa St., New Braunfels. A re in April 2022 at its East Common Street location forced the organization to look for a new home. Renovations are anticipated to be complete by late 2024. The nonprof- it organization works to provide crisis and prevention services to those who have experienced domestic violence and sexual assault. 830-620-4357. www.crisiscenternb.org 10 True Design , an interior design rm, and CoPilot Creative , a branding and graphic design rm, relocated from 128 Ferguson St. to 186 E. Garden St., New Braunfels, in February. True Design owner Allyson Buck has more than 15 years in the industry. CoPilot Creative owner Austin Buck leads the company in print, web, branding, photography and video production services. True Design: 719-432-9752, www.maketruedesign.com; CoPilot Creative: 830-264-6920, www.copilotcreative.com ANNIVERSARIES 11 New Braunfels ER & Hospital , located at 3221 Commercial Circle, celebrated its
FEATURED IMPACT NOW OPEN Located in New Braunfels, The Reserve on 1863 , a high-end whiskey and cocktail bar in the New Braunfels Hill Country, celebrated its soft opening Feb. 27, followed by a grand opening March 4. The bar, located at 1272 FM 1863, celebrated its grand opening with a craw sh boil and live music. It serves a variety of classic alcoholic beverages, including an old fashioned, a whiskey sour, a Manhattan, a paloma, a martini and a Moscow mule. “There’s nothing on this side of town where you can get a craft cocktail. ... We spent months with a mixologist to produce high-end cocktails for customers,” owner Jonathan Cole said. The bar also partners with multiple food trucks and will soon have live music on weekends. “It’s all about elevating people’s drinks and elevating your experiences and making sure you don’t have to go far for a great time and a good drink,” said Elizabeth Edwards, the bar’s general manager. The name came from its location and what one of the owners felt described the property. “We really liked that it was on 1863, and we were trying to gure out how to work with that, and one of the owners just jotted down some notes
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of what he felt when he was on the property, and one of them was like a reserve, not being super noticed, but still being able to enjoy the outdoors, and all of us loved it, and that’s kind of how it came to be,” Edwards said. The bar also has multiple yard games for people to play while enjoying drinks outdoors, including giant Jenga, cornhole and a ring toss. The business plans to start booking group events in both its outdoor and indoor seating areas. “[The Reserve on 1863] is just a relaxing backyard venue where you get drinks like you’re downtown or in Gruene,” Cole said. The Reserve on 1863 is open Wednesdays through Thursdays from 3-10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 3-11 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. 830-832-9328 www.facebook.com/reserve1863
True Design & CoPilot Creative
ERIC WEILBACHER COMMUNITY IMPACT
one-year business anniversary Feb. 15. Seeing more than 2,000 patients in its rst year, the company has partnered with multiple specialty providers and expanded its laboratory to include advanced rapid respiratory testing. Hospital ocials said it prioritizes providing low wait times, features a detox care program and more. 830-402-2170. www.nberhospital.com 12 NBTX Young Life is celebrat- ing 30 years of supporting the New Braunfels-area teens. The organization o ers ministries for middle and high school students and teen moms. NBTX Young Life plans to celebrate the anni- versary Oct. 21 at 444 E. San Antonio St. 877-438-9572. https://nbtx.younglife.org 13 Ducky’s Swimwear & T-Shirts is celebrating 45 years in business in 2023. It has operated at its location at 272 S. Union Ave., New Braunfels, since 1984. The shop o ers custom printed shirts as well as swimsuits, surf brands, sandals, hats, footwear and more. 830-609-7422. www.duckysswim.com
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION • APRIL 2023
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TO DO LIST
April & May events
COMPILED BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN AND SIERRA MARTIN
LIVE MUSIC THE PHOENIX SALOON 193 W. San Antonio St, New Braunfels 830-643-1400 www. thephoenixsaloon.com APRIL 21 Soul Sessions featuring Robert Carter, 8:30 p.m. 22 Jorge Gallegos, 8:30 p.m. 28 Jesse Stratton Band, 8:30 p.m. 29 Cadillac Drive, 8:30 p.m. REDBIRD LISTENING ROOM 1260 S. Business I-35, New Braunfels 830-606-7886 www.redbirdlisteningroom.com APRIL
APRIL 29
THRU THE CHUTE BOAT RACE AND RIVER EXPO 100 LIEBSCHER DRIVE
MAY 6
WEIN & SAENGERFEST 500 MAIN PLAZA
Thru the Chute Boat Race and River Expo, a cardboard boat race, will take place at the New Braunfels City Tube Chute. Participants launch their handmade boats through the chute and have the opportunity to win di erent novice and expert awards. Registration, forms and payment must be taken to the Parks O ce at 110 Golf Course Road prior to the event. 8:30 a.m. (check in), 10 a.m. ( rst launch). Free (spectators), $30 (per boat). 100 Liebscher Drive, New Braunfels. 830-221-4350. www.newbraunfels.gov
The New Braunfels Wein & Saengerfest, a wine and singing festival, features live music, family-friendly activities, shopping, food, wine, craft beer, educational seminars and more. Festivalgoers can purchase souvenir glasses. Proceeds from ticket sales bene t the New Braunfels Downtown Association and the New Braunfels Parks Foundation for Downtown beauti cation and enhancement projects. Noon- 10 p.m. Free. 500 Main Plaza, New Braunfels. 830-221-4277. www.newbraunfels.gov
21 Jason Eady, 7:30 p.m. 22 Halley Anna Finlay with 28 Butch Morgan, 7:30 p.m. 29 Joel Hofmann, 7:30 p.m. MAY 05 Darden Smith, 7:30 p.m. 06 Kinky Friedman, 7:30 p.m. RILEY’S TAVERN 8894 FM 1102, New Braunfels 512-392-3132 www.rileystavern.com APRIL 21 The Homebodies, 7 p.m. 22 Tine Jackson Band, 9 p.m. 28 Four Fridays with Prairie Rattlers, 8 p.m. 29 Rosie Flores, 8 p.m.
Sam Downing opening, 7:30 p.m.
APRIL 21 THROUGH 30
Antonio Street between South Walnut Avenue and South Grape Avenue. The area closes to vehicle tra c to allow residents to bike, walk, play and exercise safely. Several activity stations will be set up along with live music. The family- friendly community event is hosted by the city of New Braunfels. 1-4 p.m. Free. 830-221-4277. www.newbraunfels.gov MAY 12 THROUGH 13 SEE A BALLET The American Dance Company will host “Sleeping Beauty” at the Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre. The fairy tale classic features guest artists from Oklahoma, across Texas and a youth cast of 50 students from Central Texas. The performance is choreographed by CC Cummings. 7 p.m. (May 12), 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. (May 13). $30-$60. 290 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels. 830-627-0808. www.brauntex.org 13 SUPPORT SURVIVORS The Pink Warrior Advocate’s annual gala has a Roaring ’20s speakeasy theme of “The Secrets of Survivors.” The nonpro t provides direct support for those diagnosed with breast cancer. 6-10 p.m. Prices vary. New Braunfels Civic Center, 375 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels. 830-308-8855. www.pinkwarrioradvocates.org 20 THROUGH 21 HUNT FOR OUTDOOR SUPPLIES The NB Sports & Outdoorsmen Show will bring wildlife and sports activity vendors together. Visitors will be able to nd equipment for camping, hunting, boating, power sports, shing and more. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (May 21), 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (May 22). $5 per day (children), $10 per day (adults). New Braunfels Civic/ Convention Center, 375 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels. 830-488-7814. www.hillcountryconferences.com
guitarist George Harrison, organized the Liverpool Legends, who were nominated for a Grammy Award in 2012. 7:30 p.m. $43-$73. Brauntex Theatre, 290 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels. 830-627-0808. www.brauntex.org 22 TOUR HISTORIC HOMES The New Braunfels Conservation Society will host its Historic Home Tour this April. Those attending have the opportunity to tour seven structures built in the 1800s. Visitors will be allowed inside the homes, where a docent will guide them through the home’s unique history. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $20. The tour begins at the Lindheimer House at 491 Comal Ave. 830-832-9699. www.newbraunfelsconservation.org 25 THROUGH 27 SHOP FOR SPRING Shop for handmade crafts, home decor, jewelry, accessories, children’s gifts, clothes and more at the New Braunfels’ Spring Market, held at the New Braunfels Convention Center. 4-8 p.m. (April 25), 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (April 26), 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (April 27). Free (parking, children under age 12); $5 (admission). 375 Castell Ave., New Braunfels. www.homefortheholidaysgiftmarket.com 29 THROUGH 30 CALLING ALL KIDS Join in on the fun at New Braunfels 11th annual Kidsfest. The event features dozens of activity stations and over a hundred exhibitors. A magician, dancers, animal education, bounce houses and more are part of the entertainment. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (April 29), 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (April 30). Free (age 3 and under); $5 (ages 3-17) $7 (military, seniors); $10 (adults). 375 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels. 830-488-7814. www.hillcountryconferences.com 30 SAFELY PLAY OUTDOORS The annual CycloViva! open streets event will be held on West San
ENJOY A MUSICAL New Braunfels Performing Arts presents “13 the Musical,” a coming-of-age story about a boy trying to t into the social hierarchy of his new middle school. The musical is rated PG with adolescent themes and humor. Showtimes vary. $18. NBPA Studio, 131 Gattuso Road, New Braunfels. 830-609-7768. www.nbperformingarts.com 21 THROUGH 23 SWAP YOUR CAR PARTS The 31st annual New Braunfels Area Car Club Swap Meet will take place at the Comal County Fair Grounds and features a car show and around 1,000 vendors selling car parts and collectible items. The swap meet also features a car corral that showcases cars for sale. Gates open at 8 a.m. Free (admission), $5 (car parking) $10 (truck parking with trailers). Comal County Fair Grounds, 701 E. Common St., New Braunfels. 830-708-1372. www.newbraunfelsareacarclub.com 22 RUN FOR BEER Participating runners follow a 5K course winding through historic downtown New Braunfels, which starts and ends at the New Braunfels Brewing Co. Craft brew from the New Braunfels Brewing Co. and collectors pint glasses or seasonal swag from the Brewery Running Series await runners at the nish line. The Brewery Running Series is hosting the event. Participants can enter to win door prizes and enjoy live music, games and giveaways. 11 a.m. $30-$46. New Braunfels Brewing Co., 180 W. Mill St., Ste. 100, New Braunfels. www.breweryrunningseries.com 22 SING TO THE BEATLES Fans of The Beatles can watch a tribute band of the popular group called Liverpool Legends. Louise Harrison, sister of The Beatles lead
Fiesta San Antonio begins April 20.
WORTH THE TRIP April 20-30: Fiesta San Antonio , the local annual springtime celebration, o ers more than 100 events citywide featuring food and entertainment, including parades, festivals and formal galas. Proceeds from each event bene t participating Fiesta Commission member organizations and numerous local community nonpro ts and causes. Event times, admission prices and locations vary. www. estasanantonio.org
Find more or submit New Braunfels events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION • APRIL 2023
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION • APRIL 2023
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TRANSPORTATION UPDATES
COMPILED BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN
South Castell Avenue closures continue in downtown district
ONGOING PROJECTS
Intermediate closures along South Castell Avenue are set to continue through May as part of New Braunfels’ Castell Avenue 24-Inch Water Line Project. The water line project is designed to increase water transmission capacity and reliability by replacing aged infrastructure. “These improvements are expected to reduce water main breaks, leading to fewer mainte- nance events and lowering long- term repair costs,” a New Braunfels
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Closures along South Castell Avenue will continue through May as the utility continues waterline repairs.
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Goodwin Lane water main project New Braunfels Utilities will begin construction on the Goodwin Lane 24-inch Water Main Project, which will last over the next year. To alleviate tra c during the school year, construction at the Conrads and Goodwin lanes intersection and con- struction within 200 feet of Oak Creek Elementary School will occur from June to August. Timeline: April 2023-summer 2024 Cost: $10.24 million Funding source: New Braunfels Utilities
Utilities press release stated. The utilities contractor, D. Guerra Construction, will be installing water line infrastructure during the scheduled intersection and street
closure. All work is expected to be completed as scheduled; however, vehicular tra c should expect barriers at the intersection and detour routes.
Road reconstruction begins for County Line Road from FM 1044 to FM 725
Crews began work on the recon- struction of County Line Road in New Braunfels from FM 1044 to FM 725 in late February, causing lane closures that could last until mid- to late summer. According to a press release, the project is estimated to last ve
months and includes the removal and replacement of existing pavement as well as milling and overlaying portions of the road surface. After the project began, the section of roadway from FM 1044 to Pahmeyer Road was reduced from ve lanes to two lanes.
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ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF MARCH 9. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT NBFNEWS COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION • APRIL 2023
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EDUCATION BRIEFS
News from Comal & New Braunfels ISDs
HIGHLIGHTS NEW BRAUNFELS ISD The future name of the 10th elementary school located at 4365 Klein Meadows in New Braunfels ISD was determined by the board of trustees during a regular meeting March 6. The new campus will be named Legend Point Elementary School. COMAL ISD The board of trustees canceled the trustee election for District 3 at the regular meeting March 30. Jason York, the board’s current president and District 3 trustee, was the only applicant for a place on the ballot, according
New Braunfels ISD names interim superintendent
BY SIERRA MARTIN
NEW BRAUNFELS ISD James M. Largent became interim superintendent of New Braunfels ISD on March 21. Former superintendent Cade Smith, who became
Future Long Creek High School students, Assistant Superintendent Kara Bock and others helped break ground March 23.
Groundbreaking ceremony held for second district high school
Dr. James M. Largent
to board documents. He will continue to serve as trustee once votes are canvassed.
superintendent for the district in June 2021, submitted his resignation to the board of trustees March 13, e ective immediately. Largent previously held the position of interim superintendent in the district after the retirement of former Superintendent Randy Moczygemba in 2021. “The board of trustees is very excited that Dr. Largent will be returning to support our district once again,” NBISD board President Eric Bergquist said. “He did a great job for us as interim superintendent two years ago, and he was our rst call when this need arose again. We look forward to working with him again and are excited he will lead the district through the end of the school year. We know our Unicorn community will welcome him back.”
BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN
MEETINGS WE COVER
NEW BRAUNFELS ISD A groundbreaking ceremony for Long Creek High School at what is currently the district’s Ninth Grade Center was held March 23. Funding for the new high school comes from the 2021 bond and will be used for additions to the campus. “Over the 16 months we have been gathering data, talking to students, teachers, sta and other stakeholders to ensure that the design and functionality of this campus will serve us well for many years to come,” said Kara Bock, NBISD’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and accountability. A three-story classroom wing, a two-story building with an auditorium, a black box theater and more are part of the additions.
Comal ISD Will meet April 27 and May 9 at 6 p.m. at the CISD District O ce, 1404 N. I-35, New Braunfels. 830-221-2000 • www.comalisd.org New Braunfels ISD Will meet May 8 at 7 p.m. at the NBISD Administration Center, 1000 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels. 830-643-5705 • www.nbisd.org
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION • APRIL 2023
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AT THE CAPITOL
News from the 88th legislative session
QUOTE OF NOTE
Senate unveils bills to reform the power grid after failures in 2021
FOCUS ON THE GRID
“I WILL WORK TO SAFEGUARD HONEST AND ACCURATE ELECTIONS IN ALL 254 COUNTIES ACROSS OUR GREAT STATE WHILE CONTINUING TO SUPPORT BUSINESS OWNERS BY ENSURING THAT GOVERNMENT MOVES AT THE SPEED OF TEXAS BUSINESS,
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and a group of Texas senators created a nine-bill plan to improve the state power grid. Some details on the top bills in the package include:
BY HANNAH NORTON
used in times of crisis, he said. SB 6 would also establish a low- cost loan program to “maintain, restore and keep in operation current dispatchable generation here in Texas,” Schwertner said. Dispatchable power comes from sources such as natural gas and coal, and both Patrick and Gov. Greg Abbott said supporting those sources is a top priority. Schwertner also highlighted SB 7, which would “level the playing field” between dispatchable and renewable power by providing incentives for companies to create new dispatch- able energy. SBs 6 and 7 were filed by Schwert- ner and Sen. Phil King, R-Weatherford, the chair and vice chair of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee. Schwertner said senators were working closely with the Texas House to pass the reform package.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and a biparti- san group of Texas senators shared the details of a nine-bill plan to improve the reliability of Texas’ power grid. The March 9 announcement came about two years after Winter Storm Uri devastated Texas and revealed issues with the state’s power grid in 2021, which lawmakers and energy regulators are still working to fix. The first bill in the package, Senate Bill 6, would create the Texas Energy Insurance Program. Sen. Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, said the program would add 10,000 megawatts of energy—enough to power 7.5 million homes—to the state power supply. Schwertner said the program would provide backup power for the state, similar to the generators people buy for their homes. Texas needs its own backup generator that can be CHIPPING AWAY If approved, the Texas Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors and Science Act would help expand the production of semiconductor chips statewide. The bills would create a consortium, which would consist of:
Senate Bill 6
• Add 10,000 megawatts of energy to the state power supply • Create backup power for the state in times of crisis or severe weather • Provide low-cost loans to help communities generate power from natural gas and coal The Texas Energy Insurance Program
NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND.”
FORMER STATE SEN. JANE NELSON AFTER SHE WAS CONFIRMED AS TEXAS’ 115TH SECRETARY OF STATE
Senate Bill 2012
• Prevent power companies from charging high prices for energy • Create legislative committee to oversee grid reliability Protecting Texans from price gouging
UPDATES FROM LOCAL LEGISLATORS
Senate Bill 2013
REP. JOHN KUEMPEL District 44 R-Seguin Elected: 2010
SOURCE: TEXAS SENATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT • Increase security of Texas power grid • Protect grid from cyber and physical attacks Strengthening grid infrastructure
House Bill 1363 Most recently placed on the general state calendar for the 88th legislative session, this bill relates to the repeal of the real estate inspection recovery fund. House Bill 2153 This bill would require a vote of approval by property owners should local governing entities placing restrictive covenants on zoning approvals for older subdivisions. House Bill 2352 This bill relates to the authority of certain municipalities to receive certain tax revenue derived from hotel and convention center projects and to pledge certain tax revenue for the payment of obligations related to the project.
Lawmakers appointed to special Texas House committee on firearms
Plans underway to boost semiconductor creation
BY HANNAH NORTON
BY HANNAH NORTON
Two Texas lawmakers have filed bills to create the Texas Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors Act, which is aimed at expanding the state’s development and research in the semiconductor industry. Similar to the federal CHIPS and Science Act, the Texas CHIPS Act would provide funding and support for semiconductor research, manufacturing and workforce development. Gov. Greg Abbott announced his support for the proposals at a March 15 news conference with Senate Finance Committee Chair Joan Huffman and House Appropriations Committee Chair Greg Bonnen, who authored Senate Bill 2288 and House Bill 5174, respectively. The bills are identical. In recent years, major semicon- ductor companies have moved or expanded to Texas, including
A new Texas House committee will handle all proposed legislation related to guns and firearm safety during the legislative session. The House Select Committee on Community Safety includes 13 representatives from across Texas. Two members previously served on the Robb Elementary Shooting Investigative Committee, which was created in June at the request of Gov. Greg Abbott. Some members appointed to the committee represent communities that have been impacted by mass shootings in recent years, according to a March news release. Bills related to the possession, use, sale and transfer of firearms and ammunition will be referred to the select committee alongside bills about gun-related criminal offenses. The committee held its first meeting March 21.
Academic officials from 18 Texas universities, community colleges and technical colleges Three members appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott Two members appointed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Additionally: The bills would create the Texas Semicon- ductor Innovation Fund Two members appointed by House Speaker Dade Phelan
SENATOR DONNA CAMPBELL District 25 R-New Braunfels Elected: 2012
Senate Bill 131 This bill restricts who may request a public hearing from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality related to the construction of a concrete plant to any entity within 440 yards of the proposed plant. Sign up for our newsletter at communityimpact.com for daily updates throughout the session. SUBSCRIBE TODAY
SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT
Samsung in Central Texas and Texas Instruments in North Texas. State leaders have said they hope to maintain that trend and make Texas an international leader in the semiconductor industry through the Texas CHIPS Act.
17
NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION • APRIL 2023
CITY & COUNTY
News from New Braunfels
New Braunfels City Council will meet April 24 and May 8 at 6 p.m. at 550 Landa St., New Braunfels. 830-221-4000 www.newbraunfels.gov Comal County Commissioners Court will meet April 20 and 27 May 4, 11 at 8:30 a.m. at 100 Main Plaza, New Braunfels. 830-221-1100 www.co.comal.tx.us MEETINGS WE COVER HIGHLIGHTS NEW BRAUNFELS Customers of New Braunfels Utilities are expected to see a decrease in the second- quarter cost of power compared to the rst quarter of 2023. According to NBU, the decrease equates to $7.20 in monthly savings April and May as well as $10.80 in June. NEW BRAUNFELS Riding golf carts and similar recreational vehicles within city limits may be safer in New Braunfels following action from City Council to approve the rst reading of the item March 27. An operational horn and Texas license plate would be required. The minimum ne for a second o ense would be $500. Riding with passengers under the age of four would also lead to a minimum ne of $250 instead of $100.
Headwaters at the Comal breaks ground on second phase additions
Amendments made to public speaking time
REZONING FOR DEVELOPMENT
BY SIERRA MARTIN AND AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN
There is still a working water plant on the prop- erty, which takes water from the Edwards Aquifer and sends it into New Braunfels. The headwaters house the rst springs that make up the Comal River, according to Pappas. The main building will be restored in Phase 2 of the master plan to allow for a variety of programs, events, eld trips and meetings. Innovative and ecologically friendly technologies featuring spe- cialty-designed natural lighting and ventilation will be utilized, according to the organization. The Headwaters at the Comal master plan has faced challenges throughout construction due to building near a working water plant, archeological ndings, ooding and the pandemic, Pappas said. Community spaces will be located in a screened, fresh-air exhibit and classroom. Flex space, administrative o ces and a large meeting space will also be included in the nal design. NBU CEO Ian Taylor said the new public access aspect is key. “I think it is tting that there’s a water plant here on this side because when you look at [the NBU’s] approach to water, especially as we’ve been growing as fast as we have, how we man- age that water resource is absolutely critical,” Taylor said.
Council denied a request to rezone around 8 acres of land on East County Line Road to construct a single-family development.
NEW BRAUNFELS TheHeadwaters at the Comal held a groundbreaking ceremony to begin Phase 2 of transforming a retired New Braunfels Utilities warehouse on the Comal River into a conservation, education and research center March 21. “We have a tagline on the Headwaters at the Comal—‘Where it begins’—because this is the beginning of many things,” said Judith Dykes-Ho mann, board president of the Headwa- ters at the Comal. A master plan was created for the site in 2014 and broken into two phases. Phase 1, the Foundation Builders Campaign, was completed in November 2017. Once completed, the site will have a restored main building, a picnic-area entrance and multiple community spaces. “As we found out as we worked on Phase 1, it is an incredible archaeological site,” said Nancy Pap- pas, managing director of the Headwaters at the Comal. “It is an amazing environmental location, and it is a historic site. And all those participants in that visualization of what we would do with this property realized the importance of it and how we could transform this into being some- thing that the whole community could enjoy.”
BY SIERRA MARTIN
NEW BRAUNFELS Citizens will no longer need to provide their addresses during council meetings but will have their comments limited to three minutes down from ve, according to changes made to a city ordinance. According to the city, the New Braunfels City Charter stipulates the City Council is authorized to establish its own rules and order. Multiple speakers spoke in favor of no longer having to share addresses before speaking publicly but did not want speaking time to be cut. “If my math is correct, if this passes, it’ll be a 67% increase in citizen participation because we’re going from six speakers to 10 in three minutes apiece,” said Harry Bowers, City Council member for District 3. The rst reading of the agenda item was approved unanimously March 27.
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Zero-lot home district zoning denied
The groundbreaking ceremony for Phase 2 of the Headwaters at the Comal took place March 21.
BY SIERRA MARTIN
homes could t on the property once developed. He plans to keep the existing home on the property. “Sta is recommending this pro- posed zoning because it is consistent with Envision New Braunfels and is also consistent with the develop- ment of the adjacent neighborhood,” said Jean Drew, planning and devel- opment services assistant director for the city. Over 20% of property owners within 200 feet of the zoning request were in opposition to the development.
NEW BRAUNFELS A zoning request to allow a new dense single-family housing development located at 254 E. County Line Road was halted for the time being. The New Braunfels City Council denied the rezoning request for 8.4 acres of agricultural land to be changed to a zero-lot line home district during a regular meeting March 13. The same item was initially approved during a Feb. 27 meeting. Tyler Epstein, the owner of the property, said he estimates 46 to 50
REIMAGINING THE HEADWATERS
New community space, including exhibit areas and classrooms, are part of the nal design. • Total cost of Phase 2: $10 million • Completion: summer 2024 • Total square footage of new facility: 6,400
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SOURCE: HEADWATERS AT THE COMAL COMMUNITY IMPACT
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