Boerne - Fair Oaks Ranch | October 2025

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Boerne Fair Oaks Ranch Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 6 OCT. 31DEC. 1, 2025

Years-long Buc-ee’s development moves forward

for 60 days, giving additional time to review information before a recommendation is made to City Council. This agenda item is planned to be revisited in November. Joseph Macaluso, district 5 City Council member, told Community Impact that he agrees with resident concerns, but the city must work within the connes of the law to move forward with the development.

light pollution compliance, water usage and environmental impacts. Resident questions have led to the release of timelines and information related to the project. On Sept. 8, the planning and zoning commission held a public hearing for the zoning designation for 5.16 acres of property neighboring the construction site. The zoning ratication was unanimously tabled

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Since the start of 2025, Buc-ee’s has been at the forefront of Boerne community concerns following information of the convenience chain moving forward with the early stages of site work. In July, a group of residents began showing up to city meetings, voicing concerns with the upcoming development, including the lack of DarkSky

CONTINUED ON 10

Also in this issue

Impacts: Check out Carmella's Pizza Parlor coming soon to Boerne from the owners of 28 Songs Brewhouse + Kitchen (Page 4)

Government: Read about Gov. Greg Abbott appointing Katherine McDaniel to the 498th Judicial District Court in Kendall County (Page 6)

Nonprofit: Learn more about volunteer opportunities in the Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch area in our nonprot guide (Page 16)

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

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BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Impacts

Coming soon

5 Lee’s Massage Head Spa This local massage center is opening a new storefront soon, featuring deep tissue massages, cupping and more. • Opening in November

MARKET AVE.

• 128 W. Bandera Road, Boerne • www.leesmassageboerne.com

ADLER RD.

TRUSS DR.

6 Darkside After Dark Darkside Brick Oven Pizza Co. is opening this new lounge and bar soon, featuring a Predator-themed design.

BLANCO RD.

RIVER RD.

NICKEL LN.

JOHNS RD.

• Opening in November • 25 Truss Drive, Boerne • www.darksidebrickovenpizza.com

OAK PARK DR.

FAIR OAKS PKWY.

7 Carmella’s Pizza Parlor The new pizzeria, an extension of a 28 Songs Brewhouse + Kitchen, will serve New York-style thin-crust pizzas. • Opening early 2026 • 110 Market Ave., Boerne • www.28songs.beer 8 The Model Box This new model-building store will feature building supplies and a space for events. • Opening in November 9 Inside 9 This new golf simulator will feature 24/7 access, memberships, workspaces and bays for group parties. • Opening in December • 27650 I-10 W., Ste. 207, Boerne • www.inside9tx.com 10 Pioneers Meats A second location of this South African meat market is opening soon, bringing authentic snacks like biltong. • 1022 N. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: The Model Box

BANDERA RD.

LA CANTERA PKWY.

Fair Oaks Ranch

San Antonio

FOX BRIAR LN.

1604

MAP NOT TO SCALE

3 Story of US Therapy The clinic specializes in couples therapy and relationships, opening a new office in the area. • Opened September • 1022 River Road, Ste. 8B, Boerne • www.storyofustx.com 4 The Calera A new event venue has opened at Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort & Spa, offering areas for up to 450 guests. • Opened Oct. 3 • 16401 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio • www.hilton.com/en/hotels/satcnsa

Now open

1 Ramon G. Reyes Primary Care A new primary care clinic is now open, offering special care for a variety of conditions. • Opened Sept. 8 • 1201 S. Main St., Ste. 114, Boerne • www.ramonreyesmd.com 2 Velocity Country Store This new convenience market is stocked with snacks, hot meals, beer, wine and a full meat market. • Opened Sept. 23 • 28214 I-10 W., Ste. 105, Fair Oaks Ranch • Instagram: Velocity Country Store & Meat Market

• Opening late October • 306 River Road, Boerne • Facebook: Pioneers Meats

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANDREW CREELMAN & JARRETT WHITENER

Relocations

Now open

Coming soon

11 The Law Office of Lasca A. Arnold, PLLC This local law firm relocated across the city, specializing in trusts, wills, power of attorney and more. • Relocated Oct. 9 • 40 E. Bandera Road, Boerne • www.lascaarnold.com

In the news

Park Lane Jewelry The nationwide jeweler, with local representative Vernie Murray, celebrated its 70th anniversary in October. • Serving Boerne and surrounding areas • www.parklanejewelry.com

13 Foundry Hill Country The new antique store offers rustic, Hill Country- style home decor, vintage antiques, accessories and a few other home goods along with design help. • Opened Oct. 2

14 McDonald’s The fast food giant is planning to open a new location just off of I-10 in late 2025 or early 2026 near Fair Oaks Ranch. • Opening TBD

Closings

• 608 E. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.foundryhillcountry.com

• 28353 I-10 W., Boerne • www.mcdonalds.com

12 JAC’s Personal Touch The home goods and decor store officially closed its doors after 36 years in Boerne. • Closing early October

• 170 S. Main St., Ste. 100, Boerne • Facebook: JAC’s Personal Touch

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Government

Boerne increases residential water rates Water rates for residential properties in Boerne have increased following the nal approval of the fee schedule for scal year 2025-26 during the Sept. 9 Boerne City Council meeting. The new residential rates went into eect Oct. 1. What you need to know Water rates are determined on a per-100-gallon basis, with the rate increasing by about 7% for

Fair Oaks Ranch updates budget policy Fair Oaks Ranch City Council updated budget policies during the Oct. 16 meeting, changing the reserve balance and other policies. The framework On Oct. 2, City Council held a workshop reviewing changes to nancial policies, including changes to quarterly nancial reporting, additional subsections and clarications for nancial procedures and modications to expenditure control. Of the presented changes, one of the most notable was the splitting of the city’s governmental reserve. In previous budgets, the reserve balance was equal to six months of operating expenses, per city policy. Director of Finance Summer Fleming said the plan is to create an emergency reserve, which keeps four months of operating expenses to be used in an emergency. This reserve will have strict usage requirements. The other reserve is for budget stabiliza- tion, being used to minimize tax impacts or target revenue shortfalls. This reserve will be less restrictive. “This structure provides stability and exibility, ensuring that we maintain a strong safeguard while also giving council the ability to respond to changing needs,” Fleming said.

each subsequent tier of water usage, according to council agenda documents. The monthly rate will be the sum of the monthly customer charge plus monthly volume charges. The customer charge for a 5/8-inch meter is $32.19 per month, while the charge for a 3/4-inch meter is $67.07 per month. These rates are applicable for water service used exclusively for domestic residential purposes where each unit is individually metered for water serviced by a 5/8- or 3/4-inch water meter and do not involve any nonresidential activity. Rates do not include reclaimed water, which is charged separately, the agenda documents state.

Boerne water rates

FY 2024-25 rate

FY 2025-26 rate

Over 100,001 gallons

$2.024

$2.166

50,001-100,000 gallons

$1.247

$1.335

Water rates outside Boerne city limits Water rates for Boerne utilities dier for users who live outside of the city limits, with the 0-6,000 rate starting at $0.286 per 100 gallons. This rate increases to $0.389 at 6,001-10,000 gallons, and to $0.547 from 10,001-15,000 gallons. The customer service charge is the same for all users.

25,001-50,000 gallons

$1.015

$1.086

15,001-25,000 gallons

$0.56

$0.599

10,001-15,000 gallons

$0.511

$0.547

6,001-10,000 gallons

$0.372

$0.398

0-6,000 gallons

$0.223 $0.239

$0 $0.2 $0.4 $0.6 $0.8 $1

$1.2 $1.4 $1.6 $1.8 $2 $2.2

Average rate per 100 gallons

SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Katherine McDaniel appointed 498th Judicial Court judge in Kendall County

Bar Association, Texas Bar College and the Texas Prosecutors’ Society. The background In 2023, the 88th Texas Legislature enacted House Bill 3474, creating the 498th Judicial District Court eective Oct. 1, 2025. The 498th Judicial District Court has concurrent jurisdiction with the 451st Judicial District Court in all civil and criminal matters led in Kendall County. McDaniel was sworn in to her new role Oct. 14. Her term is set to expire Dec. 31, 2026, or until a successor is elected.

Gov. Greg Abbott has appointed Katherine McDaniel to the 498th Judicial District Court in Kendall County for a term set to expire at the end of 2026. The details McDaniel was the rst assistant district attorney for the Kendall County Criminal District Attorney’s Oce, serving on the Texas Violent Gang Task Force, according to an Oct. 6 news release. McDaniel is also a member of the Texas Dis- trict and County Attorneys’ Association Journal Editorial Board, State Bar of Texas, Kendall County

“This is a signicant milestone in my career, and I’m committed to serving our growing community with fairness and integrity, ensuring an accessible courtroom and building trust in our judicial system.” KATHERINE MCDANIEL, 498TH JUDICIAL COURT JUDGE

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Kendall County approves the use of Flock Safety license plate readers

Automatic license plate readers have made their way into municipalities across the state, with Kendall County joining the implementation of Flock Safety Cameras following grant funding approval at the Sept. 23 Commis- sioners Court meeting. An agreement for the cameras to be put in the county right of way was approved Oct. 14. What’s happening? The county received grant fund- ing to support the installation of license plate readers, resulting in the county paying a match of around $43,000 for the $258,305 project. Staff said if the county contin- ues to use the cameras after this year, the potential recurring cost could be around $198,550. This cost assumes the county is not awarded additional grant funding. Kendall County Auditor Corinna Speer said the county budgeted for the project, anticipating paying the match. Moving forward From the payment, the county will receive approximately 58 cameras for installation at identi- fied locations. Fair Oaks Ranch City Council on Oct. 16 approved Unified Develop- ment Code amendments, outlin- ing development regulations and procedures in the city. City Council has discussed code amendments over the last year, while staff have worked on the Fair Oaks Ranch amends codes

Zooming in

58 Flock Safety Cameras

$43,000 match by Kendall County

$198,550 recurring payment

18-month lease time

SOURCE: KENDALL COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

County officials will review the system over the next year to determine if the cameras are beneficial to the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office. The cities of Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch also utilize Flock Safety Cameras, with Fair Oaks Ranch implementing the system in August. Precinct 2 Commissioner Andra Wisian raised concerns about the privacy of the cameras and what will be photographed. County staff said the readers will only capture images of the vehicle and the license plate with no in-cab view, meaning the cameras will not capture images of drivers or passengers. update for around four years. “What I believe has come from this is a UDC that defines Fair Oaks Ranch aesthetics,” Mayor Greg Maxton said. The details City Planner Jessica Relucio, on Oct. 2, walked through amend- ments, which include changes to screening standards, a conser- vation development alternative, subdivision design, signs, trees, site development and more.

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Education

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Alamo Colleges District to bring new programs to Boerne

A new Alamo Colleges District facility is coming to the Boerne area, near I-10 and Headwind Road. The Northwest Education and Training Cen- ter, or NWETC, is funded through 2017 bonds approved by Bexar County voters. Planned construction includes a 42,000-square-foot facility with 11 classrooms and approximately 12 lab areas, according to the Alamo Colleges District. The overview Through business and community partnerships, the NWETC will serve as a resource by oering general business and leadership services for local employers, according to its website. Academic and workforce oerings include: • Adult basic education and literacy • Recognized certication programs • Cybersecurity • IT management and data science The NWETC will help the Alamo Colleges District in its eort to provide residents with the opportunity to earn a degree or certicate, or train for high-wage jobs, according to the district website. The impact Heather Willis, Boerne ISD director of career and technical education, said the new facility will enhance opportunities for students currently enrolled in dual credit courses as well as for gradu- ates pursuing postsecondary education. “As our closest institution of higher educa- tion—located 22 miles and approximately 35 minutes away—Northwest Vista has provided critical support in expanding access to higher

NORTHWEST EDUCATION AND TRAINING CENTER

BOERNE STAGE RD.

HEADWIND RD.

The Northwest Education and Training Center is planned to open in the Boerne area in 2027.

RENDERINGS COURTESY ALAMO COLLEGES DISTRICT

education opportunities for our students,” she said. “The upcoming construction of the Alamo Colleges Northwest Education and Training Center within our district boundaries marks a signicant advancement.” The NWETC is one of four capital improvement projects for Northwest Vista College, and the nal expansion to be completed, according to the campus website. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in 2022, and construction began in July 2025. The estimated completion date for the project is February 2027.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Environment

BY JARRETT WHITENER

A nearly $5.9 billion water expansion project from the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, or GBRA, aims to provide water across the region. The GBRA WaterSECURE project is a potential future water source for utilities in the region, leveraging Lower Guadalupe River surface water rights owned by GBRA. In July, Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch officials discussed participation in the program to secure water for future growth, with both city councils choosing to opt out. The GBRA project requires extensive infrastructure, including a large water treatment plant, an aquifer storage and recovery facility and over 250 miles of water pipeline. Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch opt out of water project

Diving in deeper

Before the project begins, GBRA is working on a Memorandum of Understanding with each municipality that falls within the project area. Water use is measured in acre-feet, which rep- resents around 325,851 gallons per acre foot. For Fair Oaks Ranch, the peak demand per connection in 2022 reached 0.62 acre-feet. Assuming peak demand, the city would need approximately 2,805 acre-feet of water to meet build-out demands. In Boerne, the city utility has access to surface water provided through the city lake. Should Boerne decide to participate in the program to pull 3 million gallons of potable water, the capital cost could range between $383 million and $543 million , paid for over 30 years. An annual payment on the commitment would be over $12 million each year. Using growth assumptions, Boerne staff projects the city to have adequate water until around 2070. Should the city join the GBRA project, payments

Project timeline

October 2025: Procure program manager

March 2026: Execute water supply agreements

Q1 2026: Application for additional funding

June 2026: Design kick-off

2028: Construction begins

2033-34: Initial water delivery

SOURCE: GBRA/COMMUNITY IMPACT

would be made beginning in 2028 or 2034. GBRA is developing agreements with communi- ties that wish to participate, with the goal of initial water delivery around 2033. Communities who decide to opt out will not be entitled to the new water source, according to GBRA.

WaterSECURE capital cost

Demand (gallons per day)

Capital cost

Source

Breaking it down

Lower basin raw water diversion Lower basin reservoir Upriver transmission Local water infrastructure

129.1M

$441.8M

build-out. GBRA representative Brian Perkins told City Council in July that the capital cost per acre-foot is around $62,896. The total capital cost to bring 300 acre-feet of water into the city would be around $18.9 million . “Where you get the water is getting further and further away, and pipeline is getting more expen- sive,” Perkins said.

As of Oct. 15, Fair Oaks Ranch had 3,274 water connections, and the projected number of con- nections at full water build-out in the year 2052 is around 4,528. Public Works Director Grant Watanabe said the city currently has around 2,600 acre-feet of water available and will have another 400 available from GBRA around 2038. The total acre-feet available would be around 3,000, which is 195 acre-feet more than the projected peak demand at full

129.1M

$1.09B

76.8M

$1.5B

72.9M 407.9M

$2.84B

$5.89B

Total

SOURCE: GBRA/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Kendall County water user population

Region L water user population

Looking ahead

200K

12M

164.9K

The GBRA project comes alongside the state legislative priority to increase water resources. In the draft 2026 Region L Water Plan, Kendall County is expected to reach over 160,000 water users by 2080, while Region L—which covers six counties including Kendall, Comal and Bexar—is expected to reach a population of 7.69 million by 2080. The WaterSECURE project is still in the early stages of development, and the project is subject to change.

150K

6.89M

111.4K

6.18M

136.4K

7.69M

5.47M

100K

70.9K

3.98M

89.7K

56.3K

4.79M

50K

2030

2040

2050

2060

2070

2080

2030

2040

2050

2060

2070

2080

SOURCE: TEXAS WATER DEVELOPMENT BOARD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Years-long Buc-ee’s development moves forward From the cover

How we got here

What’s happening?

Boerne officials initially began discussing the proposed Buc-ee’s location in 2016. July 2016: City Council holds first Buc-ee’s executive session 2016

Another residential concern was regarding vested rights, which freeze a property’s development regulations. The Buc-ee’s project was vested in 2019 upon submission of the preliminary plat. Residents argued that the rights should not be vested due to language in the development agreement forgoing those rights. City Attorney Mick McKamie said the specific language in the development agreement is language that the city consistently includes to indicate that the agreement itself does not constitute a permit under Chapter 245 of the Texas Local Government Code. “In the case of the Buc-ee’s development, and the applicable preliminary plat which was filed in 2019, is when the project was vested, not in 2016 when the agreement was approved by City Council,” McKamie said. That vesting date means the development is subject to the regulations that were in place in 2019. The additional 5 acres were not part of the original plat and therefore are vested at a later date. In the development agreement, the city of Boerne agreed to provide Buc-ee’s a sales tax rebate equal to 50% of the city’s 1.5% sales tax collected from the travel center for 20 years. Over the course of the development agreement, the development dropped the inclusion of retail space for the additional parking lot, leading residents to suggest the project has significantly changed since the agreement approval.

Despite tabling the Sept. 8 agenda item, city staff said Buc-ee’s can still move forward with its project, since the property was previously zoned for commercial use before the update of the city’s Unified Development Code, or UDC, in 2021. The proposed use of the property is for an accessory parking lot for Buc-ee’s employees. On Sept. 8, the agenda item was changed from a rezoning to a zoning designation ratification, and the acreage was increased from around 3 acres to 5.16 acres, raising concern from residents and committee members. Planning and Zoning Director Nathan Crane explained that upon adoption of the UDC, the previous commercial zoning for the property was retired, and no new zoning was assigned. Since a property cannot exist without zoning, city staff submitted the ratification to zone the property as high-density commercial, or C-3, the zoning that Crane said most aligns with the previous B-2 commercial zoning. “This does not impact the decision on whether or not Buc-ee’s is coming,” Crane said. “It does not have any effect on site planning, on design, on lighting, on signage or on anything like this.” One of the primary questions from residents focused on the approval of the sign for the development, which was denied by the sitting City Council before being approved by a sign committee, allowing a 75-foot sign rather than the 40-foot sign required by the UDC. Staff documents indicate that the Buc-ee’s sign will be required to meet applicable DarkSky provisions as codified in the 2019 ordinances.

August 2016: City Council approves economic development agreement

2017

May 2017: Initial transportation impact analysis submitted

2018

October 2017: Buc-ee’s sign variance denied by City Council

May 2018: Sign permit issued to Buc-ee’s

2019

October 2019: Buc-ee’s submits a preliminary plat and initial infrastructure plans

April 2020: City proposes that Buc-ee’s front the costs of utility extensions and Buc-ee’s Way construction, with reimbursement distributed over five years

2020

June 2020: Buc-ee’s and the Texas

2021

Department of Transportation jointly request land rezoning

December 2021: City’s design review committee approves a revised site plan

2022

June 2023: Building permit filed

Average annual daily traffic counts on US-87

May 2024: Site development permit submitted, deemed incomplete January 2025: City issues a mass grading permit for Buc-ee’s Way and utilities August 2025: City issues comments on Submittal No. 4 of a traffic impact analysis

2023

15,742

2024 2020

Boerne Buc-ee’s development

15,360

Key:

Buc-ee's Buc-ee's planned parking expansion

2024

90+ fueling stations

Oct. 27, 2025: City Council holds executive session to discuss Buc-ee’s development agreement

2025

170+ full-time positions

$25+ million annual taxable sales

BUC-EE'S WAY

Nov. 3, 2025: Planning and zoning to hold public hearing

2026

SOURCES: CITY OF BOERNE, TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Looking ahead

What they’re saying

The impact

Before construction, Buc-ee’s must complete a traffic impact analysis. City staff said this document is on its fifth round of edits, awaiting a response from Buc-ee’s. City staff told Community Impact the final approved plans will include and incorporate updated traffic patterns that were done when TxDOT overhauled the interstate in that area in 2023.

The zoning clarification is planned to go before the planning and zoning commission again in November. Should the zoning be approved, Buc-ee’s will still be unable to begin construction due to the incomplete status of permits and the traffic impact analysis. While this rezoning will allow resident comments, the postponement or denial of the clarification does not hinder the development, since it operates under the previous assigned zoning, Crane said. On Oct. 27, after publication time, Boerne City Council planned to hold a special meeting to discuss a resolution amending the economic development agreement between the city and Buc-ee’s in executive session, according to the meeting agenda. Community Impact will continue to update readers as the story develops.

“It has been nine years since this project was announced. A short pause to resolve these issues is not unreasonable. If we are going to do this project, then we must do it right, and it must be done well.” DANA MATHIS, BOERNE RESIDENT

I-10 average daily traffic counts in Boerne

80K

+48.86% increase

“We’re taking the hand that we’re dealt, and I think we are going to make a good outcome of this.” JOSEPH MACALUSO, CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 5

60K

61.3K

57.2K

40K

38.4K

35.5K

20K

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Development

Transportation

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Morningside Ministries to add 51 independent living units

Upcoming projects

SISTERDALE RD.

ESSER RD.

1 Ammann Road Project: The proposed project spans a 2.17-mile segment of Ammann Road. The reconstruction will widen the roadway, make drainage improvements and adjust utilities. • Cost: $6.41 million • Timeline: FY 2026-27 • Funding source: city of Fair Oaks Ranch 2024 bonds 2 Adler Road Project: The project will widen the street to three lanes and construct shared-use paths. A roundabout is planned at Adler Road and Plant Street. • Cost: $18 million • Timeline: 2026-2028 • Funding source: city of Boerne 2022 bonds, Kendall County, American Rescue Plan Act funds 3 Dietz Elkhorn Road Project: The project adds new shoulders for pedestrians and bikes. Construction will span from Fair Oaks Parkway to FM 3351. The project is expected to take around 12-15 months to complete. • Cost: $4.9 million • Timeline: FY 2026-27 • Funding source: city of Fair Oaks Ranch 2024 bonds

Boerne

ADLER RD.

Morningside Ministries saw a need for additional units. “The demand is so great in this area, and we see so many people looking to be closer to their family here in Boerne,” Craig said. Craig said the new units are planned to be larger than other units in the community, having an average square footage of 1,836, with a range from 1,477 to 2,450 square feet. Metropolitan Construc- tion is constructing the expansion. “The downsizing process can be really over- whelming for many, so we are offering these larger options,” Craig said. Looking ahead While the expansion is not planned to be open for at least two years, Morningside Ministries plans on hosting information sessions for individuals interested in the community.

Morningside Ministries is gearing up for the final expansion of Morningside at Menger Springs, adding 51 independent living units to the commu- nity. The project is expected to be completed in fall 2027. About the project Morningside Ministries is a nonprofit organiza- tion that started in 1959 and provides retirement communities to the San Antonio area. Morningside at Menger Springs opened in 2004 and has developed to offer independent living, assisted living, transitional care, memory care, long-term care and home health care. Marketing Director Brooke Craig said the expansion, called The Vistas, will focus on adding independent living units. This expansion follows a 2023 expansion, which added 74 terrace homes. Craig said these homes will be ready for move-in by February. Due to the success of the terrace home expansion,

Menger Springs expansion

PLANT AVE. OAK PARK DR.

JOHNS RD.

51 additional independent living homes 1,836 average square footage

3351

AMMANN RD.

SCHOOL ST.

OLD SAN ANTONIO RD.

Fair Oaks Ranch

On-site convenience market

FAIR OAKS PKWY.

BOERNE STAGE RD.

Covered parking

Private balcony or patio

DIETZ ELKHORN RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

4 School Street Project: The first phase will focus on utility relocation work. Phase 2, scheduled for completion in summer 2026, includes the construction of the roundabout.

Construction is expected to take approximately 10-12 weeks. • Cost: $1.8 million • Timeline: summer 2026 • Funding source: city of Boerne 2022 bonds

G R

SOURCE: MORNINGSIDE MINISTRIES/COMMUNITY IMPACT

BOERNE 1313 S Main St (830) 249-0115

DOMINION 24603 I-10 (210) 310-3200

VINEYARD 1309 N Loop 1604 W (210) 408-8206

Dining

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

As an avid Star Wars fan, toy collector and 1980s lm junkie, Michael Hawes didn’t expect to open his own pizza joint. But, in 2024, he opened Darkside Brick Oven Pizza Co., a restaurant concept that blended all of his favorite ideas together in a scenic spot o of Hwy. 46, just outside Boerne. The backstory Beginning his collection at age seven, Hawes said he now has “one of the largest private Star Wars collections in the world.” Then, after working in the lm industry for several years and even directing some of his own features, Hawes said he wanted to do something else with his passion for Star Wars and the 1980s. “We were thinking of how cool it would be if we could create this place, this nostalgia where people could come in and be taken back,” Hawes said. Along with his wife, Denice, also an avid collec- tor, the pair decided on a pizza joint. “In my humble opinion, the 1980s were the best time to grow up as a kid,” Hawes said. “This is my childhood in a box.” What’s special about it? Darkside Brick Oven Pizza Co. is lled to the brim with 80s memorabilia—life-size statues of Star Wars characters like Luke Skywalker hang from the ceiling while movie posters from era icks line the walls. “Even though it’s named after Star Wars, it’s everything from the 1970s, 1980s,” Hawes said. As for the food, Hawes traveled all over the country to nd what style of pizza would work best for the eatery’s menu. “We traveled from Connecticut to New York and Arizona to California,” Hawes said. He settled on an eclectic mix of New York-style pies, ranging from simple build-your-own pizzas to specialty styles like BBQ brisket ($22) and white margherita ($20). Additionally, there are salads, appetizers, deli sandwiches and a variety of desserts like the Darkside Iron Skillet Cookie ($8). “We make everything in-house, from the dough to the sauce,” Hawes said. The local impact Growing up in San Antonio, Hawes said he wanted to settle down close by in Boerne. “It’s a great little town,” he said. “We built this Step back in time: Grab a slice of nostalgia at this Boerne pizza joint

Darkside Brick Oven Pizza Co. is adorned with 1970s and 80s memorabilia, featuring movie gures, toy displays and statues.

PHOTOS BY ANDREW CREELMANCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Pizzas are red in the oven, such as this margherita ($18) topped with pepperoni and basil.

Michael Hawes opened Darkside Brick Oven Pizza Co. in May 2024.

for the passion of the 80s, and the people here are certainly sharing that love with us in droves.” It’s not just people from the area showing up, either. Hawes said he’s seen people y from California to experience the nostalgia the pizza place has to oer. In the future, Hawes said he is expanding the eatery—adding a Predator-themed bar and lounge called Darkside After Dark. The new space will open to the public sometime in November.

E .

25 Truss Drive, Boerne www.darksidebrickovenpizza.com

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Events

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Dickens on Main The weekend after Thanksgiving, head to this historic downtown Christmas market with lights, photos with Santa, food, local vendors and more. • Nov. 28-29, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. • Free (admission) • Hill Country Mile, Main Street, Boerne • www.holidaysinboerne.com/dickens-on-main

Oma’s Christmas Fair Explore this holiday event and marketplace to kick off the season with shopping, dining, festive events and more at the fairgrounds. • Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• $5 (two-day admission), free (children ages 10 and under) • Kendall County Fairgrounds, 1307 River Road, Boerne • www.kcfa.org/p/other/omas-christmas-fair

• $5 (child admission), $10 (adult admission) • 16641 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio • www.lacanteraresort.com/holiday-happenings Boerne Family YMCA 14th Annual Turkey Trot Compete in either a 5K or a 10K during this annual turkey trot in the Hill Country. The course winds through downtown Boerne and surrounding neighborhoods. • Nov. 22, 8 a.m. • $45 (5K), $55 (10K) • Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St., Boerne • www.athleteguild.com/event/boerne-tx 5K Beer Run Enjoy friendly competition with a 5K at this local Boerne brewery. Free beer, live music and food will be available after the race. • Nov. 29, 11 a.m. • $45.28 (registration), $64.60 (registration with T-shirt) • Free Roam Brewing Company, 325 S. Main St., Boerne • www.eventbrite.com/e/5k-beer-run

• Nov. 9, 12:30 p.m. • $150 (single player registration), $500 (team registration) • Buckhorn Golf Course, 36 RM 473, Comfort • www.dasfestival.org/golf

November

‘Loot’ Head to the theater to catch the performance of “Loot,” a slapstick comedy with dark undertones. • Nov. 5-27, show times TBD • Cost TBD • Boerne Community Theater, 907 E. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.boernetheatre.org/category/2025-season The Jones Christmas Ranch Drive through and see this expansive display of holiday lights, featuring over 4 million twinkling bulbs and themed decorations. • Nov. 7-Dec. 31; 6-10 p.m. (Sunday through Thursday), 6-11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday) • $40 (per vehicle admission) • 43360 I-10 W., Boerne • www.thejoneschristmasranch.com Music in the Cave: Joseph Kuipers Listen to this unique solo artist perform using the cello and the guzheng, a traditional Chinese instrument, as he plays songs from Asia and beyond. • Nov. 8, 7 p.m. • $40 (online), $45 (at the door admission) • Cave Without a Name, 325 Kreutzberg Road, Boerne • www.cavewithoutaname.com/content/ joseph-kuipers-cello

Resin Charcuterie Board Workshop Head to this workshop and make your own charcuterie board just in time for Thanksgiving. All materials are included with tickets and no experience is necessary. • Nov. 13, 6-8 p.m. • $59.95 (admission) • The Downtown DIY, 206 W. Highland Drive, Boerne • www.thingstodoinboerne.com Jazz at the Giles: The Noah Peterson Quartet Head deep into the Hill Country and listen to the jazz offerings of this acclaimed quarter at a historic hotel.

• Nov. 15, 7-10 p.m. • $30 (admission) • 717 High St., Comfort • www.hotelgiles.com

Fall Handmade Market Check out this market full of handmade artisan goods, jewelry, toys and home decor. • Nov. 21, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 5:30-9:30 p.m. (VIP admission); Nov. 22, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (regular admission) • $5 (regular admission), $25 (VIP admission) • 130 Sisterdale Hwy., Boerne • www.boernehandmademarket.com Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Take a trip to this popular shopping and event center to witness the lighting of a Christmas tree, listen to holiday music and pet live reindeer. • Nov. 21, 7-9 p.m.

December

Stocking Stroll Get a ticket and grab a tote bag for this shopping event at the Hill Country Mile with 20 participating businesses. Shoppers can collect special gifts at each stop. • Dec. 5-6, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. • $35 (ticket) • Hill Country Mile, Main Street, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/2491/Stocking-Stroll

Das Festival’s Second Annual Golf Tournament

Play in this competitive golf tournament in teams of four, with proceeds going directly to support Kendall County charities and other nonprofits.

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Nonprofit Volunteer guide

2025

• Sample volunteer activities: history education, museum tours • Donations accepted: monetary • 402 E. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.bahpsboerne.org Patrick Heath Public Library Boerne’s public library brings the community together with events, books, media, education and more. • Sample activities: library organization, book sales, activities • Donations accepted: monetary, used books, CDs, magazines

From animal shelters to food pantries, check out these nonprofit organizations from around the Boerne area. For specific volunteer requirements, contact the organization directly. This list is not comprehensive.

Civic

Boerne Community Theater This local performing arts organization aims to uplift theater in the Hill Country by hosting yearly productions, summer camps, classes, offering scholarships and more. • Sample volunteer activities: production and show assistance, ushers, concession workers • Donations accepted: monetary • 907 E. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.boernetheatre.org Friends of the Boerne Public Library The organization is designed to support the Boerne library by encouraging gifts, endowments and memorials. The group also works to increase library membership and secure funding for new equipment, public programs and special projects. • Sample volunteer activities: volunteer at the bookshop Under the Windmill, donate supplies • Donations accepted: monetary, used books, DVDs and video games • 451 N. Main St., Bldg. 100, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/226/Friends-of-the-Library Kendall County Elections The county elections board helps to ensure the integrity and administering of all local elections in the area. • Sample volunteer activities: poll worker • Donations accepted: monetary

Animal services

Heart of Texas SPCA The no-kill shelter provides boarding, general veterinarian services, micro chipping and more to pets without homes. They also have an adoption and educational program for residents. • Sample volunteer activities: kennel maintenance, dog walking, group activities, fostering • Donations accepted: monetary, pet food, cleaning supplies, dog toys, rawhides • 28730 I-10 W., Fair Oaks Ranch • www.animalfriends4ever.org/home Open T.R.A.I.L. Ranch Providing support to those with special needs and other conditions, this Hill Country ranch uses equine or horse therapy with certified instructors and therapists in a comforting and educational environment. • Sample volunteer activities: general chores, side walker for lessons, horse care and handling • Donations accepted: monetary, experienced horses • 28710 Boerne Stage Road, Boerne • www.opentrailranch.org Rescue Pets Serving Vets This veteran support organization matches at-risk shelter pets from the San Antonio municipal shelter to those that have served the country that are in need. • Sample volunteer activities: shelter volunteer, event assistance • Donations accepted: monetary, dog food, dog toys, pet supplies • Serving Schertz and surrounding areas • Facebook: Rescue Pets Serving Vets San Antonio

• 451 N. Main St., Bldg. 100, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/2295/library

Education

LOVE Kendall County Kids Serving students in the county, this organization provides school supplies, support programs and initiatives year-round to those in need. • Sample volunteer activities: event assistance, food drives, supply distribution • Donations accepted: monetary, clothes, backpacks, school supplies, canned food • 316 W. Highland Drive, Boerne • www.lovekckids.org

Human services

• 221 Fawn Valley Drive, Ste. 100, Boerne • www.kendallcountytx.gov/211/elections

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Texas Hill Country This nonprofit organization helps to provide underserved children with mentors who lead them through life choices, education, friendships and more. • Sample volunteer activities: mentoring and tutoring younger children • Donations accepted: monetary

The Kuhlmann-King Historical Complex By preserving the local artifacts and stories of Boerne, this historical society and museum hopes to educate and increase appreciation for the town’s rich past in the Hill Country.

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BY ANDREW CREELMAN & SIERRA MARTIN

Animal services

Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation This wildlife sanctuary cares for injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife, from mammals to birds, while educating the public on the region’s ecology and importance of preservation. • Sample volunteer activities: general maintenance, animal transport, making food for animals, feeding • Donations accepted: monetary, towels, blankets, cleaning supplies, dog/cat crates, Purina pet food

The Cibolo Center for Conservation This environmental nonprofit promotes conservation of nature through education, stewardship, and community connections throughout both of their campuses in the Hill Country.

• Sample volunteer activities: education, workshops, trail maintenance, gardening • Donations accepted: monetary • 40 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org

• P.O. Box 369, Kendalia • www.wildlife-rescue.org

Wednesday and food drives weekly. • Sample volunteer activities: pantry upkeep, unloading food from trucks, serving and cooking meals • Donations accepted: monetary, canned food items • 318 High St., Comfort • www.comforttablepantry.org Hill Country Council for the Arts This group focuses on the preservation, promotion and support of the arts, artists and more across 19 counties located within the Hill Country, including Boerne. • Sample volunteer activities: helping with various local events • Donations accepted: monetary • 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.hccarts.org Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries Serving Kendall County and surrounding areas in the

• 10843 Gulfdale St., San Antonio • www.bigmentor.org/texas-hill-country

region, this ministry helps with disaster relief, conducts food drives and provides faith-based events and classes to the community. • Sample volunteer activities: food packing, mentoring, administrative duties, warehouse operation, clothing drives • Donations accepted: monetary, hygiene products, canned food, in-date groceries, frozen meat Military Warriors Support Foundation The organization offers specialized programs that support and uplift wounded military service members and their families. • Sample volunteer activities: see organization’s website to get involved • Donations accepted: monetary, vehicles • 211 N. Loop 1604 E., Ste. 250, San Antonio • www.militarywarriors.org/about • 38 Cascade Caverns Road, Boerne • www.hillcountrydailybread.org

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Texas Hill Country

The club works to mentor youth, empowering them to reach their full potential. The nonprofit provides after- school care, programs and snacks for ages 5 to 18 and currently serves five schools in Boerne ISD. • Sample volunteer activities: club leaders (Chess, book and other clubs), tutoring, mentoring • Donations accepted: monetary, school supplies, art supplies, books • 7 Upper Cibolo Creek Road, Boerne • www.bgcatxhc.org Comfort Table & Food Pantry This organization helps to provide food assistance and meals to the community, offering a free dinner every

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Nonpro t

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

A local Hill Country nonprot just got a big upgrade with the addition of a brand new building in the Boerne area. The full story Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries unveiled a new 8,000 square foot multipurpose building, called the Vision Center, in July. The new facility is being used for activities like youth education programs, community volunteer- ing events, training for clients and more, according to the nonprot’s website. “The Vision Center allows us to expand our reach, strengthen partnerships, and invite more people to walk alongside us in serving families who need hope,” Agnes Hubbard, the co-founder and executive director of Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries, said in an email. The center can host training events for up to 300 volunteers and hold events for up to 600 members of the community. Additionally, the building has a new commercial kitchen, which will aid in providing a “vital hub for ministry, collaboration and community impact,” a statement from the nonprot said. Residents can schedule tours of the new Vision Center, sign up for volunteer opportunities and more by visiting the nonprot’s website. About the program Communications Director Debi Watson told Community Impact that a summer youth program has already been held in the new space, called the Summer Leadership Academy. The program is a seven-week, faith-based experi- ence where students learn important life skills like leadership, integrity and more, Watson said. The nonprot provides several other outreach programs to residents in the Hill Country aside from education. They include community mobilization eorts during natural disasters, food drives, student mentorship programs and partnerships with local churches, according to the website. “Every box of food, every mentoring session, every prayer oered here is a tangible act of love for our neighbors,” Hubbard said. A closer look While the Vision Center was partially in response to the devastating oods that struck the Hill Local nonprot reveals new 8,000 square foot volunteer center

Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries’ new 8,000 square foot Vision Center building opened earlier this year in July.

PHOTOS COURTESY HILL COUNTRY DAILY BREAD MINISTRIES

The center has a new commercial kitchen for the community.

The Vision Center can host public food drives and volunteer training opportunities.

Country over the July 4 holiday, the nonprot continues to provide relief kits in aected areas. Aside from residents in Boerne and Kendall County, those in Medina, Comal, Bexar, Kerr, Bandera, Gillespie and Uvalde counties are served by Hill Country Daily Bread. In total, over 82,000 individuals in Central Texas benet from the nonprot’s mission annually, according to the organization’s impact statistics.

RANCH DR.

CASCADE CAVERN

38 Cascade Caverns Road, Boerne www.hillcountrydailybread.org

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