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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
VOLUME 14, ISSUE 3 APRIL 25 MAY 23, 2023
READ ALL ABOUT IT
$21.5M+ in renovations
56,338 library cardholders
3 new libraries
Moonie’s Burger House to open in Steiner Ranch
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Andrea Marie to play at Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery
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The Lake Travis Community Library bookstore has its own room in the library and was added by popular demand amid the growth and modernization of the Lake Travis Community Library District.
Lake Travis-Westlake libraries expand to keep up with change As municipalities in Lake Travis- Westlake experience population growth, libraries in the region are in the process of innovating and developing to meet the needs of BY TAYLOR CRIPE CONTINUED ON 38 patrons in their districts. All Lake Travis-Westlake library districts are developing a new library facility, adding to existing facilities or upgrading their existing libraries. As each facility is either built or upgraded, much of the focus will be on modernizing the space to meet the needs of the commu- nity, several library directors said.
16 places to enjoy weekend brunch
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2023 Leander ISD voters to make decision on $763M proposal
LOCAL VOTER GUIDE
BOND
PROPOSITIONS
$50.82M $13.67M
Leander ISD residents will vote on three separate propositions making up a $762.82 million bond package May 6. Proposition A: school
Food trailer brings crawsh boil to Four Points
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$762.82M
BY GRANT CRAWFORD
facilities, buses and vehicles Proposition B: technology equipment and infrastructure Proposition C: renovations to LISD’s two performing arts centers
Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries
Registered voters within Leander ISD will vote on a $762.82 million bond package May 6 as the district hopes to acquire funding for new facilities, technology and infrastruc- ture, and renovations to two per- forming arts centers. The bond election comes as the district attempts to address unbal- anced growth in the region. LISD
$698.33M
SOURCE: LEANDER ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT
is projected to grow from around 42,000 students to 51,083 by 2032, according to data compiled by Population and Survey Analysts.
LISD’s enrollment increased by 3,554 students from 2016-21. However, changes to the district’s
CONTINUED ON 30
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
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THIS ISSUE
ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched 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.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH
FROM LAUREN: Hi there! Years ago, I helped launch the Lake Travis/Westlake edition of Community Impact alongside our fearless leader, Phyllis Campos. I’m now back serving as the new general manager and am looking forward to seeing all your friendly faces around town again. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I recommend checking out our Brunch Guide (see Pages 26-27). You’re sure to nd something that will make your mouth water! Lauren Itz, GENERAL MANAGER
MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Lauren Itz EDITOR April Kelley REPORTER Taylor Cripe
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FROM APRIL: Hello! I’m excited to be welcomed aboard as editor of the Lake Travis/ Westlake edition of Community Impact . I have been fortunate to meet several community members so far in my two months in the position and look forward to meeting so many more of you in the coming weeks. This month, one of our front-page stories dives deep into the upcoming library projects in the area, while another gives you all the details about the upcoming Leander ISD bond election May 6. I hope you enjoy this issue and nd it informative. Thank you for reading! April Kelley, EDITOR
CORRECTION: Volume 14, Issue 2 On Page 19, an incorrect headshot ran for Eanes ISD board of trustees candidate Chandler Hatchett. Her correct headshot and Q&A may be found in this issue on Page 29.
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
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RELOCATIONS 7 Boutique yoga studio Nectar Flow Yoga relocated to 21818 Hwy. 71, Spicewood, on April 4. The studio oers a variety of classes, including gentle ow yoga, heated power ow yoga and yoga for longevity. Nectar Flow Yoga also oers kids yoga; teacher training; workshops; and retreats, such as special mother-daughter retreats. 940-841-0170. www.nectarowyoga.com ANNIVERSARIES 8 BioVitality , a health center in the Hill Country Galleria at 12912 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. F-238, Bee Cave, is celebrating its ve-year anniversary in April. The practice is operated by Dr. David Weiler, a board-certied physician who is the medical director of BioVitality. The center focuses on men’s and women’s health with male testosterone replacement therapy, female hormone replacement, weight loss treatments, and IV and pellet therapy. 512-535-1088. www.biovitalitywellness.com 9 Lake Travis Community Library , Lakeway’s library located at 1938 Lohmans Crossing Road, Austin, celebrated its 10-year anniversary in February. The 11,000-square-foot library oers multiple amenities in addition to books, including community programs, public computers and a bookstore. The library was originally part of Lake Travis High School, Library Director Morgan McMillian said. In 2004, a library district was created by the voters to give the library sales tax revenue, she said. 512-263-2885. www.laketravislibrary.org 360 ROLLINGWOOD WEST LAKE HILLS RIVER HILLS RD. EMMA LONG PARK MOPAC
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NOW OPEN 1 Awesome Liquors is now open at the Lakeway Town Center at 2418 S. RM 620, Lakeway. The liquor store, which opened in mid-March, is located near the end of the shopping center by Embellish My Home furniture store. The liquor store will oer beer and wine as well as other liquors and spirits; the business is owned by Noor Jehan. 512-334-9913. 2 Club Car Wash opened at 15949 Hwy. 71, Bee Cave, in February. The new busi- ness oers dierent car wash packages with single washes and monthly subscrip- tions available, including an unlimited wash plan. Free towels and vacuums are oered after every wash. Club Car Wash has multiple locations throughout Austin and Central Texas. 833-416-9975. www.clubcarwash.com
3 Mr. Express - Chevron opened at 19305 Hwy. 71, Spicewood, on March 2. The gas station and convenience store oers fuel, food, drinks and more. 512-575-2868. 4 TXB (Texas Born) #63 , located at 15701 Hwy. 71, Bee Cave, celebrated its grand opening Feb. 28. The restaurant- style convenience store and gas station oers fresh-made food, including chicken tenders and tacos, as well as private-label products, such as coee, water, jerky and more. TXB has numerous locations throughout Texas. 512-215-8562. www.txbstores.com 5 Tulum Mexican Restaurant and Tequila Bar opened near Hudson Bend at 3519-A N. RM 620, Austin, at the be- ginning of April. The restaurant replaces Kitchen Del Mar Seafood, Grill & Bar, which closed in 2022. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating, a patio with live music, and a bar. 737-222-5157
6 UrgentVet opened for business at 2009 Main St., Ste. 450, Lakeway, on April 13. The practice oers same- day veterinary care for minor injuries and illnesses in cats and dogs. The 2,796-square-foot clinic has two exam rooms for small dogs, two for large dogs and two for cats. The clinic treats illnesses such as coughing or sneezing as well as injuries such as cuts, scrapes and limping. 512-994-4300.www.urgentvet.com Clover and Bloom LLC , a telehealth practice owned by Dr. Elizabeth Kirichenko, opened for business in January in the Austin area. All sessions are done via phone or internet, Kirichenko said. Counseling services provided by Kirichenko include coaching for mothers, navigating school issues with children, and building condence and coping skills in children. 512-256-6464. www.cloverandbloomcounseling.com
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10 The Lighthouse Restaurant & Lounge in Briarcli at 513 Sleat Drive, celebrated its ve-year anniversary on March 11. The lake-accessible restaurant can be found at mile marker 26, directly above the Briarcli Marina. In addition to its breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus, the eatery has a play area for kids and a stage for frequent live music events. The restaurant’s menu has multiple seafood options; breakfast classics; pastries; and other classic items, such as chicken and wa¦es and chicken- fried chicken Benedict. 512-213-1313. www.thelighthouseonthelake.com Ian’s Dry Cleaning and Laundry Delivery will be celebrating ve years in Austin in May. The dry cleaning business is mobile and does not have any brick- and-mortar locations, but it services most of the Austin metro, including Bee Cave, Dripping Springs, Lakeway, Rollingwood, Spicewood and Westlake. Ian’s local pickup and delivery laundry service specializes in wash and fold, dry cleaning, and laundry services. Orders can be scheduled online, on the app at Ian’s Cleaners TX, or by call or text. 512-452-0928. www.ianscleaners.com NEW OWNERSHIP 11 Pilates studio Pilates. Evolved. , located at 11805 RM 2244 Ste. 350, Bee Cave, will be taking ownership of pilates business Hottie Pilates on May 1, Pilates. Evolved. owner Karen Schwalbe Jones said. Jones oers several dierent techniques for Pilates, including Pilates fundamentals for strengthening, Pilates for athletes, and Pilates for rehabilitation with strength and healing.
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Moonie’s Burger House will be opening at Quinlan Crossing in Steiner Ranch in May.
COURTESY MOONIE’S BURGER HOUSE
FEATURED IMPACT COMING SOON Moonie’s Burger House is set to open May 1 at 5145 N. RM 620, Bldg. C, Austin, according to Craig Cohen, the Central Texas chain’s president. The new burger house will be in the Quinlan Crossing shopping center near the entrance to Steiner Ranch. Moonie’s Burger House oers a variety of items, including classic and double burgers, hot dogs, nachos and salads, queso and guacamole for appetizers, and milkshakes and other treats for dessert. ciation, owner Tony Curtis-Wellings said in an email to Community Impact . Curtis-Wellings and his wife, Melissa, were presented with the award in early 2023. The retail kitchen store was one of 26 global winners honored for their excellence and innovation in retail. In addition to cookware, tools and acces- sories, Faraday’s Kitchen Store oers year-round cooking classes for dierent types of cuisines as well as summer cooking camps for kids. 512-266-5666. www.faradayskitchenstore.com
Moonie’s has several locations in Central Texas, including in Leander, Liberty Hill, Marble Falls and Anderson Mill. 512-800-4464 www.mooniesburgerhouse.com
Faraday's Kitchen Store
COURTESY TONY CURTIS¨WELLINGS
Studio sessions and home sessions are available for clients. 323-422-6586. www.ksjpilatesevolved.com RENOVATIONS 12 Angel’s Icehouse , located at 21815 Hwy. 71, Spicewood, reopened March 31 after closing Jan. 3 for renovations. Some of the renovations include updated restrooms with sleek nishes, new and spruced-up signs, new art pieces featuring Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, and 21 new taps with additional draft options. Angel’s Icehouse continues to oer high-quality food, drink specials and live music. www.angelsicehouse.com IN THE NEWS 13 Faraday’s Kitchen Store at 12918 Shops Parkway, Ste. 540, Austin, in the Hill Country Galleria won the United States Innovation in Retailing for the 2023 Global Innovation Award from the International Housewares Asso-
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CLOSINGS Great Harvest Bread Co. in the West Woods Shopping Center at 1110 Old Walsh Tarlton, Austin, closed permanently Feb. 18, franchise owner James Perry conrmed in an email to Community Impact . Great Harvest Bread Co. is a bakery and cafe with locations all over the United States. The franchise oers mu§ns, scones, biscuits, bars and cookies. www.greatharvest.com
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
TO DO LIST
April & May events
MAY 01
SAVE THE WATER THE HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
MAY 01 20
TAKE A PHOTO LAKEWAY ACTIVITY CENTER
MAY 05
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC LAKE TRAVIS COMMUNITY LIBRARY
The Central Texas Water Coalition will host a golf tournament at The Hills Country Club on the club’s course. 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. $1,250 (per individual), $5,000 (team of four). 26 Club Estates Parkway, Lakeway. www.centraltexaswatercoalition.org
Lake Travis residents are invited to participate in the 21st annual Lakeway Photo Festival. Entries will be accepted until May 20. Photos must be taken in Lakeway. An awards ceremony will be held June 11. 512-261-1010. www.lakewayartsdistrict.com
The Lake Travis Community Library will host musical artist Matt Bradshaw at the library in May. His ’80s-inspired song “Whatever it Takes” was featured as a KUTX Song of the Day. 3 p.m. Free. 1938 Lohmans Crossing. 512-263-2885. www.laketravislibrary.org
MAY 03 PRACTICE TAI CHI The Bee Cave Public Library will o er a tai chi with Shao-Lin Martial Arts event to help attendees relax and create strength in their muscles. Attendees will be encouraged to focus their minds on movement as well as energy ow. Tai chi is a low-impact exercise that works with slow movement to create strength in the muscles and stability in the joints. 1-2 p.m. Free. 4000 Galleria Parkway, Bee Cave. 512-767-6620. www.beecavelibrary.com 04 ENJOY A MOVIE EVENT May the fourth be with you at the Lakeway City Park for a “Star Wars” movie event. Hosted by Lakeway Parks and Recreation, lovers of the classic lms are invited to bring their blankets and chairs to Lakeway City Park’s lower level near the playscape. Complimentary popcorn will be served. Additional information will also be provided closer to the event. 8 p.m. Free admission. 502 Hurst Creek Road, Lakeway. 512-314- 7530. www.lakeway-tx.gov 05 SHRED YOUR PAPERS Condor Document Services will be at the Spicewood Community
ages 6-11), $95 (adults), $520 (table of eight). 320 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., West Lake Hills, Austin. 844-306-6400. www.hotelviata.com 19 TRY SELF CARE Retired family physician Dr. Ann Abraham will be at the Lake Travis Community Library to help attendees recognize stress early on and practice stress management techniques. Attendees will be coached to recognize their maladaptive responses to stress as well as identifying their own unique method of relaxation. 10:30 a.m. Free. 1938 Lohmans Crossing, Austin. 512-263-2885. www.laketravislibrary.org 21 ATTEND A MASTERPIECE CONCERT Music lovers are invited to Lakeway for a spring masterpiece concert. The concert lineup includes Sandy Yamamoto and Sari Pearce on the violin, Nick Hammel playing the viola, Andrew Pearce on the cello, and Colette Valentine playing the piano. The concert will also feature a repertoire with a string quartet and a piano quintet. 4-5 p.m. Free. Lakeway Activity Center, 105 Cross Creek, Lakeway. 512- 261-1010. www.lakeway-tx.gov
Library in May to o er document shredding. The library is sponsoring this as a community service. 9-10 a.m. Free. Spicewood Community Library, 1011 Spur 191, Spicewood. 830-693-7892. www.spicewoodlibrary.org 05 DRINK WINE AND ENJOY JAZZ The Spicewood Arts Society will host a jazz concert in honor of Austin jazz musician Tony Campise. Jazz artists Carmen Bradford and John Mills will be performing. Bradford is a Grammy Award nominee and recipient of the Los Angeles Jazz Society’s Jazz Vocalist Award. Mills is a composer and recording saxophonist of jazz and other musical genres. Bottled water and parking are included in the ticket price. Wine is available for purchase at the event. Doors open at 6 p.m. $50. Spicewood Vineyards, 1419 CR 409, Spicewood. 512-264-2820. www.spicewoodarts.org 06 SHOP AT A YARD SALE The Spicewood Community Library Thrift Store will hold its annual spring yard sale in May. There will be household items, small appliances, home decor, books, furniture and outdoor items for sale. All items will be clean and gently used, and all proceeds from the yard sale will support the
library. 9 a.m.-noon. Free admission. Spicewood Community Library, 1011 Spur 191, Spicewood. 830-693-7892. www.spicewoodlibrary.org 12 EAT LUNCH IN WESTLAKE The Westlake Chamber of Commerce will be holding a community luncheon and Westlake leadership graduation ceremony in May. More information will be available about the event closer to the start date. The event will provide an opportunity for networking as well as a special program with the served lunch. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $50 (member), $65 (nonmember), $520 (reserved table of eight). Hotel Viata, 320 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., West Lake Hills. 512-327-3088. www.westlakechamber.com 14 EAT BRUNCH A special Mother’s Day brunch will be available at Hotel Viata in May. Menu items for brunch will include frittatas and Belgian waes along with a raw seafood bar, cheese boards, a carving station and a variety of desserts. Guests can also add bottomless mimosas for $25. Brunch will be served in the courtyard of the hotel. Select times are available beginning at 11 a.m. Free (children age 5 and under), $45 (children
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Celebrate Mom Among the Trees • Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet • Spa Treatments for Mom
hotelviata.com | 512-306-6434 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy | West Lake Hills, TX 78746
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MAY 14
CELEBRATE MOM IRON WOLF RANCH AND DISTILLERY
Community members are invited to celebrate Mother’s Day at Iron Wolf Ranch and Distillery in Spicewood. The ranch will oer a brunch buet with drink specials, food from Phoenix Grille and a jewelry pop-up by Linked By Ashley. Tickets will be required for the brunch buet. The event begins at noon. Free (admission), brunch buet price TBD. 101 CR 409, Spicewood. 512-970-3203. www.ironwolfranch.com
Andrea Marie will play a show at Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery on April 29.
LIVE MUSIC IRON WOLF RANCH
13 Men of Madam Radar, 2-5 p.m. 20 Denny Herrin, 2-5 p.m. 27 Mitchell Ford, 2-5 p.m. POODIES HILLTOP ROADHOUSE 22308 Hwy. 71, Spicewood 512-264-0318 www.poodies.net APRIL 28 Summer Dean, 10 p.m. MAY 12 Madam Radar, 8 p.m. 19 WC Clark, 8 p.m.
24 ATTEND A SPEAKER LUNCHEON The Bee Cave Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon in May. A three- course meal will be served followed by a presentation from City Manager Clint Garza. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $20 (chamber members), $30 (guests). Sonesta Bee Cave Hotel, 12525 Bee Cave Parkway, Bee Cave. 512-256-4004. www.beecavechamberofcommerce.com
27 SIP AND SHOP Residents are invited to attend an outdoor market at the Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery. Attendees will be able to shop from unique local craft vendors while sipping specialty cocktails and enjoying live music by Mitchell Ford. Food from Phoenix Grille and yard games will also be available. Noon-6 p.m. Free admission. 101 CR 409, Spicewood. 512-970-3203. www.ironwolfranch.com
AND DISTILLERY 101 CR 409, Spicewood 512-970-3203 www.ironwolfranch.com APRIL 29 AJ Vallejo & Andrea Marie, 2-5 p.m. MAY 06 Garrett Jay Brown, 2-5 p.m.
Find more or submit Lake Travis-Westlake 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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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
DESIGN CENTER NOW OPEN
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TRANSPORTATION UPDATES
COMPILED BY TAYLOR CRIPE & BEN THOMPSON
City to add shared-use paths by Zilker Park The city of Austin
ONGOING PROJECTS
ZILKER TRANSPORTATION The city is adding shared-use paths near Zilker Metropolitan Park to make it safer for those walking or riding to the park.
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Upgraded bus stops Pedestrian crossing signal
Phase 2 will add a shared-use path to Stratford Drive.
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the garden will add a new shared-use path between Stratford Drive’s intersec- tion at Barton Springs Road and the Austin Nature & Science Center entrance. Finally, Phase 3 of the Zilker initiative will connect the Barton Springs and Stratford pathways. Funding for the project comes from Austin’s 2016 and 2020 mobility bonds, the botanical garden, CapMetro and Austin City Council District 8’s inter- local Quarter Cent funding program. Overall costs are not yet known, but the city estimates Phase 1 will run around $650,000. “The shared-use path will greatly improve safety and access to the area,
LOHMANS CROSSING
is working to improve access to Zilker Metro- politan Park and Zilker Botanical Garden. The multistage project began in January on a 0.7-mile portion of Barton Springs Road between MoPac and the botanical garden entrance. Phase 1 will add new shared-use pathways to that stretch of roadway with land- scaped buers between vehicles and pedestrians and cyclists. The work will also upgrade Capital Metro bus stations, add a new cross- walk and add a pedestrian crossing signal outside the botanical garden. The second phase across
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ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF APRIL 3. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT LTWNEWSCOMMUNITYIMPACT.COM. $17.5 million transportation bond approved by voters in November. These projects include new asphalt and curbs on Lakeway Boulevard and Lohmans Crossing, according to city documents. Lakeway Drive improve- ments to repair potholes will also be a priority. Timeline: spring 2023-fall 2023 Cost: up to $350,000 Funding source: city of Lakeway Lakeway transportation bond update Lakeway City Council authorized spending up to $350,000 in general fund reserve money March 20 for sta to begin preconstruction engineering and design on projects related to the
ZILKER BOTANICAL GARDEN
Phase 1 • install new shared- use pathways with landscaped buers • upgrade CapMetro bus stations • install new trac signals
Phase 3 will join the two paths.
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SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT
especially since many people who visit Zilker Botanical Garden arrive on foot, by bicycle or via the
bus,” said Cynthia Klem- mer with the Austin Parks and Recreation Depart- ment in a statement.
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
ANYONE CAN LIST YOUR HOME. WE CAN SELL IT.
GROSSMAN & JONES GROUP 512.470.3173 | LUXEHOMESAUSTIN.COM LUXURY LEAGUE
Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
DEVELOPMENT
Projects underway in the Lake Travis-Westlake area
Pickleball at the center of priority parks projects
Changes unveiled to multimillion Lake Austin plan
BY APRIL KELLEY
Lakeway City Park proposed pickleball courts Six pickleball courts will be added at Lakeway City Park. The project is slated to be complete within ve months.
The city of Lakeway will begin one of several priority parks projects as part of the Lakeway Parks Master Plan. Adding pickleball courts to Lakeway City Park and Live Oak Tennis Courts as well as upgrades at the Lakeway Swim Center will be some of the projects the city is focusing on in the coming years. Andra Bennett, the director of parks and recreation for the city of Lakeway, said most of the projects in the Parks Master Plan do not yet have established timelines as they hinge on decisions made by City Council. “We do know that recreation is huge, and it’s huge in this commu- nity, so I suspect it will be coming up sooner rather than later,” she said. The Lakeway City Council decided to move forward with the addition of six pickleball courts at Lakeway City Park at a meeting March 20. The city is working to get the addition of the pickleball courts com- pleted over the course of the next ve involve closing the basketball court at Lakeway City Park during a portion of the construction. The city should have a cost esti- months, according to Bennett. Bennett said the project will mate for the project within a couple of weeks as the geotechnical engi- neering and the surveys have been completed on the proposed project area, Bennett said. Adding an additional tennis court as well as more pickleball courts at the Live Oak Tennis Courts will be another priority project for the city. Bennett said there are four tennis
BY TAYLOR CRIPE
Four Seasons Private Resi- dences Lake Austin, a resort- style standalone residential property that will be located on Bridge Point Parkway west of Loop 360 and the Pennybacker Bridge, recently announced the expanded list of $200 million and 100,000 square feet of pri- vate amenities to the upcoming development. The company also announced that Italian architect and designer Piero Lissoni will be leading the interior design projects. Site activity began in early 2023 and construction is anticipated for completion in 2026, according to a recent press release from company ocials. Upcoming residences The Four Seasons Private Residences near Lake Austin will feature: 179 -unit residential property 9 villas 4 private clubs
Parking lot
LAKEWAY CITY PARK
Basketball court
New sidewalk
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New pickleball courts
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SOURCE: CITY OF LAKEWAYCOMMUNITY IMPACT
courts at Live Oak Tennis Courts that also need to be resurfaced or com- pletely scraped and redone as part of the upgrade. Upon the completion of this project, Lakeway will have 16 total pickleball courts across the city. Bennett said the goal is to alleviate some of the parking issues associated with the Sailmaster Pickleball Court as well as meeting the needs of pickleball players in the community. “I think long-term Lakeway will be set up to accommodate the people that are wanting to play in this area,” Bennett said. Major upgrades to the Lakeway Swim Center will be another project
the city will focus on in the future. Bennett said the city has been at capacity for lap swimming at the pool for a number of years. The project calls for the addition of a competition pool that is used strictly for swim meets to meet that demand as well as retrotting the lap pool for water aerobics and swim lessons. In addition, an obstacle course for kids, a lazy river and two Flowrider surf simulators may be included in the upgrades. Bennett also said the body slides and the frog slide will be resurfaced. “After a while, it’s time to refresh things and make them new and interesting and fun,” she said.
2,000 to 12,000 -square- foot residences
300 -foot-long innity pool
W. COURTYARD DR.
BRIDGE POINT PKWY.
360
N
SOURCE: DBOX FOR AUSTIN CAPITAL PARTNERS COMMUNITY IMPACT
MOTHER S DAY
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
DEVELOPMENT
Nearly 4K housing units coming to Lake Travis area
New development Thomas Ranch spans both Travis and Burnet counties and will oer thousands of new homes and new amenities for area residents.
Arts center
Farm
Golf course
Hotel
Marina
School
2,200 acres 40 miles of hiking and biking trails 3,500 new housing units 400 units in private residential community 250,000 square feet of downtown district 1 boutique resort hotel 1 new golf course
Private community
BY TAYLOR CRIPE
Thomas Ranch, a 2,200-acre residential devel- opment planned for the Spicewood area, has been approved for a preliminary plat by Burnet County. The 4,000-unit development comprises 545 acres on the Burnet County side of the Spicewood region, while the rest of the future development is in Travis County. During the Burnet County Commissioners Court meeting Feb. 14, the commissioners unani- mously approved the preliminary plat, according to a press release from Thomas Ranch owners Arete Collective. A preliminary plat details a map of a proposed subdivision and allows infrastructure to be con- structed, according to Travis County. Thomas Ranch was originally approved for development in 2017 and will be one of the largest residential developments in the area with about 3,900 homes, apartments, restaurants, a hotel, marketplace shops and more, according to initial plans approved by Travis County. The project is estimated to take up to two decades to complete and will have a population of 6,000-10,000 people. Rebecca Buchan, CEO and co-founder of Arete Collective said she is grateful to Burnet County for being partners in the journey to bring new and innovative housing options to the Greater Austin area. “This plat approval is a milestone moment, demonstrating Arete Collective’s ability to make progress on a project that we acquired in January of 2022,” she said. “We are committed to bringing a global expertise to collaborations with local leadership and business partners to benet the local economy and community.” Joe Rentfro, the managing director for Arete Collective, said credit for the development also has to go to Ralph Thomas, from whom Arete Collective
LAKE TRAVIS
Residential neighborhoods
29
BURNET COUNTY
183
35
281
TRAVIS COUNTY
71
290
71
290
Downtown district
N
SOURCE: ARETE COLLECTIVECOMMUNITY IMPACT
304
bought the property in January 2022. Thomas purchased 17 dierent parcels of land over 25 years to accumulate the 2,200 acres the ranch sits on, Rentfro said. “The great part was we didn’t just buy 2,200 acres of real estate,” Rentfro said. “We were able to come in and buy a property that had been carefully thought of and developed [for] some land planning.” Several residents have voiced concern about the new development. Mike Sample, a Spicewood resident who lives o Travis Lakeside Drive, said the new golf course that will be part of the Thomas Ranch Development is right across from his house. Sample said the most critical concern for him
and other residents is where the water is going to come from for the new development and where the wastewater from the golf course is going to go. “They did not elaborate on whether new wells would be drilled or whether existing wells would be upgraded,” he said. Sample said there were also concerns about trac as a trac impact analysis was not available. Rentfro said the plan for the development is to also have over 40 miles of total trail networks throughout the 2,200 acres. In terms of next steps, Rentfro said community members can expect to see some construction on the development’s planned golf course in the third quarter of 2023. 281 130 46
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
EDUCATION BRIEFS
News from Eanes, Lake Travis & Leander ISDs & Texas
QUOTE OF NOTE "BY MAKING MYSELF THE MAIN POINT OF
BY APRIL KELLEY LTISD reviews digital form for library materials REVIEWING LIBRARY RESOURCES The Lake Travis ISD Resource Review Process has four steps.
HIGHLIGHTS EANES ISD The board of trustees approved the purchase of classroom furniture with funds from the 2019 bond at a meeting March 28. The district will be purchasing exible furniture to outt an additional 30 elementary classrooms, 30 middle school classrooms and 30 high school classrooms at a total cost of $1.08 million. LAKE TRAVIS ISD The board of trustees approved a pre-K tuition rate increase of $500 per year for nonqualier students for the 2023-24 school year at a meeting March 22. The annual rate increased from $6,000 to $6,500. Trustees also approved the 2022-23 stipend compensation plan, which includes two new stipends: a $3,000 student teacher stipend and an Employee Referral Program of $400. EANES ISD The board of trustees approved recommendations for general counsel, assistant superintendents and principals at a meeting April 11. Eleven administrators were presented for 2023-24 contract renewal. Contracts were renewed for Molly May, assistant superintendent of curriculum, instruction and assessment; Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Planning Jeremy Trimble; and general counsel Allyson Collins. Several principal contracts were also renewed. NUMBER TO KNOW The amount Eanes ISD approved for the purchase of classroom furniture using 2019 bond funds $1.08 million CONTACT, I THINK I CAN SPEED UP THAT BOOK REVIEW PROCESS MUCH QUICKER AND TALK TO THE LIBRARIANS DIRECTLY.” CARL MCLENDON, LTISD DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION
LAKE TRAVIS ISD The board of trustees discussed the addition of a digital form for the informal request for the reconsideration of library resource materials for the district website at a meeting March 22. LTISD Director of Curriculum & Instruction Carl McLendon presented trustees with an example of a digital version of the paper form the district uses for parents to submit requests for library resource material recon- sideration and possible removal. McLendon said he would act as the principal designee, or the main point of contact, for the requests for reconsideration. Once he receives the digital form, McLendon said he would contact librarians on the campus or campuses where the resource can be found to begin the review process. “It will come straight to me,” he said. “The goal is for me to get that Senate passes bill to send funds to private schools BY HANNAH NORTON TEXAS A proposal to use state money to help parents pay for private schools was approved by the Texas Senate on April 6, setting the stage for a contentious debate in the House. Senators also approved a bill that would give public school teachers a one-time bonus. The Senate was in session for nearly 12 hours and spent over ve hours debating the two education bills. Senate Bill 8, by Sen. Brandon Creighton, RConroe, would create an education savings account pro- gram, commonly known as private school vouchers. Parents who pull their children out of public schools could receive $8,000 per student to help send them to private schools. The money, which would come from taxes paid to the state, could be used to cover private school tuition or other educational expenses, such as textbooks or transportation.
Campus librarian(s) review resource Step 2:
Step 1:
Committee of parents/ educators reviews book Step 3:
Step 4:
Informal reconsideration
Committee makes decision
request is submitted
on book removal
SOURCE: LAKE TRAVIS ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT
information, and then I have that direct contact with those librarians so that we can begin that review process together.” As with the paper format for the reconsideration of a library resource and possible book removal, the digital version will ask users for contact information, the resource or book in question and the perceived objectionable content. The digital form also has two addi- tional questions: one asking which
campus the book was found on and another asking if the book in question is a library or curriculum resource. McLendon said the digital form would not be available for the public to access until after the board makes an ocial decision at a future meet- ing but that it would expedite the resource material review process. Once the board decides on the nal format of the form, it will be accessi- ble on the district website under the Library Services tab.
Lake Travis ISD trustees cancel May election
BY APRIL KELLEY
LAKE TRAVIS ISD The board of trustees canceled the May 6 election at a meeting March 22, saving the district approximately $45,000. Two candidates led for uncon- tested races for the Lake Travis ISD board of trustees as of the ling deadline Feb. 17—Robert Scott Aird for the Place 6 position and Keely Ann Cano for the Place 7 position. Because both of the races are unopposed, the LTISD board of trustees unanimously voted to cancel the election. Place 6 Trustee William Beard had initially applied for re-election but later withdrew his application. Marco Alvarado, LTISD execu- tive director of communications and community relations, said it is typical for the LTISD board of trustees to cancel elections when all candidates are running uncontested.
Sen. Brandon Creighton, RConroe, discusses Senate Bill 8 on April 6.
To be eligible for the program, students must be enrolled in a pub- lic school and have attended public school for at least 90% of the current school year. Students enrolling in kindergarten or prekindergarten for the rst time could also apply for an account. In an amendment to the bill, Creighton announced 10% of the program’s funds could be used to provide education savings accounts for low-income students who are already enrolled in private schools. This would be about 62,500 stu- dents, Creighton said. Other private school students would not be eligible for the program.
MEETINGS WE COVER
Eanes ISD board of trustees will meet May 23 at 7 p.m. at 601 Camp Craft Road, West Lake Hills. www.eanesisd.net Lake Travis ISD board of trustees will meet May 17 at 6 p.m. at 607 RM 620, Lakeway. www.ltisdschools.org Leander ISD board of trustees will meet May 11 and May 25 at 6:15 p.m. at 300 W. South Drive, Leander. www.leanderisd.org
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
CITY & COUNTY
News from Bee Cave & Lakeway & Travis County
HIGHLIGHTS BEE CAVE The city of Bee Cave is the rst city in the country to proclaim the bee an honored resident of its city, according to a press release from the city. Council voted unanimously during the March 28 regular council meeting to issue the proclamation. The steps the city of Bee Cave has taken as an aliate to conserve native bees include creating safe habitats, hosting community events, and planting native owers and plants to increase pollination, city sta said. BEE CAVE The city of Bee Cave canceled the city’s Nature Fest on April 15 due to a lawsuit that involves the Brown Property, according to a statement made on the city’s Facebook page. Bee Cave City Council held a special meeting April 4 to discuss the lawsuit, Citizens for the Preservation of the Brown Property v. City of Bee Cave. The city needs to evaluate the impact of the lawsuit before allowing any events to move forward, the city said in the Facebook statement. TRAVIS COUNTY On April 17, Travis County began its nal round of debris pickup for February’s ice storm in the county’s unincorporated areas. The county will not return for any brush after this sweep. As of March 30, Travis County has picked up 4,708 loads, or 239,432 cubic yards, of debris, according to a press release. NUMBER TO KNOW This is the contracted amount with Vanderlande Industries Inc. to provide third-party baggage technicians at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport for up to two years. $10.98 million
County correction o cers to get salary bump amid 263 vacancies
FILLING VACANCIES Travis County is in the middle of hiring new applicants to ll over 250 correction ocer vacancies.
BY KATY MCAFEE
undecided; county sta will return to the Commissioners Court in 30 days to discuss the nancial options. The overtime incentive program— which gives employees a $500 bonus when they work an additional 24 hours in a four-week month or 30 extra hours in a ve-week month— costs the county about $18 million in 2022. Raising salaries would be a signicant expense to the county and likely be the driver behind next year’s budget, Travis County Budget Director Travis Gatlin said; however, paying a fully-staed department 40 hours a week would still be more cost eective.
TRAVIS COUNTY County commis- sioners are eyeing a second salary increase for correction ocers as the department is down about a third of its sta with 263 vacancies. Since March 2022, the correc- tions department has seen a 129% increase in vacancies, according to county documents. The county made several moves to increase stang last year, including hiring a marketing and recruiting team, approving an overtime incentive program, and adopting a minimum wage hike from $15 to $20 an hour that took eect in October. The next pay increase is still
The corrections department has seen a 129% increase, resulting in 263 vacancies.
A minimum wage hike from $15 to $20 an hour took eect in October to incentivize applicants.
Overtime for employees cost the department $18 million in 2022.
SOURCE: TRAVIS COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT
Lakeway lift station to be built for future developments
BEE CAVE PKWY.
GALLERIA CIR.
MARKET ST.
71
N
BY TAYLOR CRIPE
LAKEWAY A new wastewater lift station, or sewage collection system, will be built on the 22.8 acres of land to be dedicated to Lakeway by Stratus Properties’ developers. The proposed location is on the property that will be dedicated to Lakeway just northeast of the proposed Main Street bridge that spans Yaupon Creek, according to city documents. The resolution was approved by Lakeway City Council during the March 20 meeting. The Square at Lohmans, The Oaks Phase 2 and the Jovie—formerly Tuscan Village PUD 2—will all benet from the lift station, which will be a sewage collection system for the new housing units built by the three developments, the city said. In conjunction with Travis County Water Control and Improvement Dis- trict No. 17, the city is recommending a lift station be built that serves all three developments, Lakeway City Manager Joseph Molis said. Developers broke ground Nov. 9 on The Square at Lohmans.
Bee Cave on Ice will now be a permanent annual event in Bee Cave.
TAYLOR CRIPECOMMUNITY IMPACT
Holiday ice rink to become annual tradition
BY TAYLOR CRIPE
statement from the city. Because this will be an annual event, the city can create a special fund for it, Bee Cave City Manager Clint Garza said. This action sets the tone for moving forward and avoids the city having to reapprove the event each year, he said. Declaring Bee Cave on Ice an annual event will also allow the city to take advantage of dierent types of funding, the city said. “Last year we got donations, but I think the process will be more streamlined,” Garza said. The 2022 Bee Cave on Ice event brought in 25,000 skaters as well as another 75,000 people who came to the city throughout the event, according to city documents.
MEETINGS WE COVER
BEE CAVE Bee Cave on Ice will now be a permanent annual event for the city of Bee Cave after council approved a resolution for the ice rink during a March 28 meeting. Council also approved the use of up to $250,000 in hotel occupancy funds for the 2023-24 Bee Cave on Ice season, which will likely run from November to January, according to city documents. Due to the success of Bee Cave on Ice’s inaugural year, a resolu- tion was drafted to make the event an annual city event to further develop and improve the event’s notoriety and economic impact on the community, according to a
Bee Cave City Council will meet May 9 and 23 at
6 p.m. 512-767-6600. www.beecavetexas.gov Lakeway City Council will meet May 1 and 15 at 6:30 p.m. 512-314-7500. www.lakeway-tx.gov
Rollingwood City Council will meet May 17 at 7 p.m. 512-327-1838. www.cityofrollingwood.com
Travis County Commissioners Court will meet April 25, May 2, 9 and 16
at 9 a.m. 512-854-4722. www.traviscountytx.gov West Lake Hills City Council will meet May 10 and 24 at 7 p.m. 512-327-3628. www.westlakehills.org
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION • APRIL 2023
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