North Central Austin Edition | August 2024

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North Central Austin Edition VOLUME 17, ISSUE 5 AUG. 30OCT. 1, 2024

Families showed support for a tax rate election Aug. 13 at the Travis County Courthouse

HALEY MCLEODCOMMUNITY IMPACT

an additional $77 million annually—an estimated $288 increase to the average homeowner—to fund a multi-pronged approach to reduce the challenges for the community’s vulnerable populations. After an outpouring of support from local child care advocates, Travis County commissioners approved a measure Aug. 13 to ask voters for a tax increase on the November ballot. BY HALEY MCLEOD Travis County tax hike proposed for child care costs Property owners across the metro are being asked to support lowering annual child care costs. Currently, the cost for one child to attend daycare in Travis County is comparable with a year of tuition at the University of Texas at Austin, ocials said. If approved by voters, the increase would raise

CONTINUED ON 30

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Impacts: Local wine bar relocates after 16 years (Page 9)

Education: A guide to Central Austin private schools (Page 21)

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Reporters Brittany Anderson Amanda Cutshall Dacia Garcia Kameryn Griesser Sarah Hernandez Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia

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AUSTIN IS IN STAGE 2 DROUGHT WATER RESTRICTIONS

Watering one day per week

6 Automatic irrigation and hose-end sprinkler watering is restricted to one day per week. 6 Automatic irrigation watering times are before 5 a.m. or after 7 p.m. The runtime is reduced by 3 hours with cutoff at 5 a.m. instead of 8 a.m. 6 Hose-end sprinkler watering times are before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m. 6 Hand watering or watering with a refillable receptacle such as a bucket is allowed on any day or time.

6 Water waste is prohibited. 6 Restaurants may serve water only upon request. 6 Charity car washes are prohibited, and home car washing is only allowed while using a bucket. 6 Patio misters at commercial properties, including restaurants and bars, may operate only between 4 p.m. and midnight. 6 Large ornamental fountains can no longer be operated. 6 New landscape variance required for watering outside of scheduled day

austinwater.org

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Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

NORTH AUSTIN

also add nutrition enhancers, such as whey protein, to their drink. • Opening estimated late 2024, early 2025

Now open

OWN-TECH BLVD.

• 1000 W. 39th St., Austin • www.smoothieking.com

183

Relocations

5 Dog Day Coffee The coffee shop, from Mark Tovar and Erika Luck, is relocating beneath the Marq on Burnet apartment complex after sharing a space with pub Nosh and Bevvy, at 8440 Burnet Road, Austin since 2021. Dog Day Coffee specializes in nitro coffee, a caffeinated drink infused with nitrogen gas, which creates a foamy top layer. • Opening Aug. 31 • 6701 Burnet Road, Austin • www.dogdaynitro.com

MOPAC

2 Hello Dancer The dance studio will specialize in teaching dance to children aged two months to nine years old. Hello Dancer is owned and operated by married couple April and Thomas Peters, who said they opened the studio to teach dance in an environment free of the performance pressures of recitals and competitions. • Opened Aug. 17 • 4410 Burnet Road, Austin • www.hellodanceraustin.com

In the news

290

6 Highland Lanes Local bowling alley Highland Lanes was able to extend its lease and will remain open through 2025, despite rumors the business would close at the end of the year. However, the future of the 40-lane bowling alley remains uncertain.

W. 39TH ST.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• 8909 Burnet Road, Austin • www.highlandlanes.com

North Central

3 Austin Rising School North Austin Rising School has served students for over 10 years in South Austin, and this year has opened a new school in North Austin. The homeschooling co-op is open three days a week and serves grades 1-8. • Opened Aug. 10

Closings

Now open

7 Lights Fantastic Pro The lighting showroom closed in August, according to showroom manager Shelley Kravet, who said the decision was “unexpected.” Lights Fantastic Pro offered products to design home lighting. There were a total of four showrooms in Texas, and all have ceased operations. • Closed Aug. 8 • 7532 Burnet Road, Austin • www.lightsfantasticpro.com

1 Valor North Austin The new 51,407-square-foot addition to the existing school building includes a new gymnasium, a theater, a library, art and music rooms, science labs and general- use classrooms. The three-story building will serve sixth through 12th grade students and will allow Valor North Austin to serve over 1,200 students. The school will welcome its first graduating class of 15-20 students this year. • Opened Aug. 6 • 14200 N. I-35, Austin • www.valoreducation.org

• 7500 Woodrow Ave., Austin • www.austinrisingschool.com

Coming soon

4 Smoothie King The juice bar will be joining the array of businesses near the Triangle, just north of the University of Texas Austin Campus, offering a variety of smoothies. Customers can

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Impacts

BY ELLE BENT, SARAH HERNANDEZ & HALEY MCLEOD

daughters Mackenzie, Madison and Brooke Bain. Pvolve uses patented resistance-based equipment such as a P. ball which targets the thigh, gluteal and core muscles. Bain said they are planning to open the first Pvolve studio in downtown Austin this winter. They are also looking at areas in Westlake, Bee Cave and North Austin for the other locations. • Slated to open this winter • Locations TBD • www.pvolve.com

Coming soon

SAN ANTONIO ST.

E. DEAN KEETON ST.

In the news

4 Tómalo Taquería Tómalo Taquería will take over what was Mexican restaurant Bacalar, which closed after opening in September 2023. Urbanspace Hospitality owned Bacalar as well as Tómalo, which will operate through a pick-up window until it fully reopens in the old Bacalar space. • 44 East Ave., Ste. 100, Austin • www.tomaloatx.com 5 University of Austin The first semester for the University of Austin begins this fall. The four-year, nonprofit university is currently in the process of becoming accredited. The university’s initial cohort will have a student-to-teacher ratio of 1-to-5, and students will be awarded $130,000 in scholarships. • 522 Congress Ave., Ste. 300, Austin • www.uaustin.org 6 Black Sheep Coffee The London-based cafe chain will open a storefront with a kitchen and dining area in the Sixth and Guadalupe tower. The cafe’s opening date hasn’t been announced, but construction on the retail space will be completed by late October, according to a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing. • 600 Guadalupe St., Ste. 150, Austin • www.leavetheherdbehind.com

2 Spec's Wine, Spirits & Finer Foods This will be the Texas-based store's 16th Austin area location. Spec's is slated to open as early as September, according to the store's representatives, and is taking over the space that was previously Goodwill. The family-owned business opened in Houston in 1962 and now has more than 100 stores throughout the state. Spec’s first came to Austin in 2007 offering alcohol, cigars, gifts and more. • Opening this fall • 914 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.specsonline.com

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Downtown/West Campus

Coming soon

3 SusieCakes The bakery sells specialty frosted layer cakes in flavors such as Southern red velvet, old-fashioned chocolate and carrot, among others. The store will also offer delivery services for bakery customers. • Opening this fall • 1111 W. Sixth St., Bldg. A, Ste. 110, Austin • www.susiecakes.com Pvolve The functional fitness company with locations across the U.S. will open four studios in Austin. Marci Bain is spearheading the new franchise along with her

Now open

1 Jewboy Cantina The Mexican restaurant is Mo Pittle’s newest concept in Austin. Jewboy Cantina, found behind venue Hole in the Wall, offers tacos, burritos, nachos and sliders. Pittle also owns JewBoy Burgers. • Opened in April • 2513 San Antonio St., Austin • www.jewboycantina.com

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Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Relocations

Now open

5 House Wine The local wine bar from Kerry White opened in a new location, offering global wine selections, cheese boards and other food. After 16 years off Josephine Street, House Wine closed in May in order to relocate further south. The shop held a soft opening in June, and plans to fully open in September.

MOPAC

• Opening in September • 1711 S. 1st St., Austin • www.housewineaustin.com

6 Thrive Pet Healthcare - South Lamar The veterinary office relocated from its original space on Oltorf Street to a bigger space on South Lamar Boulevard. The practice’s name is now Thrive Pet Healthcare - South Lamar to reflect the change. The business’s services include wellness exams, vaccinations, spay and neuter, pet dental care and more. • Relocated Aug. 15 • 3318 S. Lamar Blvd., Austin • www.thrivepetcare.com

3 New Balance The footwear and apparel brand opened its first Austin retail space on South Congress Avenue. Customers can browse a selection of athletic and lifestyle merchandise, including trending shoes, in a different store layout than nearby New Balance factory outlets like the location in San Marcos. • Opened July 25 • 1007 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 125, Austin • www.newbalance.com

MOPAC

S. CAPITAL OF TEXAS HWY.

360

290

In the news

MAP NOT TO SCALE

7 Ego’s Karaoke bar Ego’s, off South Congress since 1979, announced a potential closure as the building’s pipes keep collapsing. The bar is working to stay open, but is unsure if they can continue to operate through September. • 510 S. Congress Ave., Austin • Instagram: egosbaratx

South Central

Barton Creek Square. Spirit Halloween sells costumes, makeup, decorations and more Halloween-themed items. • Opened in August • 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin • www.stores.spirithalloween.com

Now open

1 IMAGE Studios The beauty salon suites are owned by Ray and Pia Arthur. IMAGE Studios provides salon suites for beauty professionals including hairstylists, massage therapists, tattoo artists, estheticians, barbers and more. • Opened August • 4403 South Congress Ave., Austin • www.imagestudios360.com

Coming soon

Closings

4 Radio Rosewood Opening in the former Try Hard Coffee space, a new Radio Coffee & Beer—Radio Rosewood—will offer coffee, espresso drinks, cocktails, and food. Radio, owned by Greg and Jack Wilson, has two other locations in Austin.

8 Elementary After a year in business, restaurant Elementary has closed. Owners Colter Peck, Chris Arial and Allan Bautista have not indicated any future plans. • Closed Aug. 10

• Opening in summer 2024 • 1115 East 11th St., Austin • www.radiocoffeeandbeer.com

• 2026 S Lamar Blvd, Austin • www.elementaryatx.com

2 Spirit Halloween The seasonal store will open in the former Rue 21 at

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Impacts

BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON

EAST AUSTIN

as restaurant and bar Balcón in San Marcos—opened early August. The new sports bar and eatery’s menu includes appetizers, sides, main dishes and desserts, while the bar serves beer, wine and house cocktails. Afternoon happy hour is offered Tuesday through Friday, and weekend bottomless mimosa brunches are on Saturdays and Sundays. Live DJ sets are also featured on

Coming soon

MCBEE ST.

weekend nights. • Opened Aug. 2 • 1630 E. Sixth St., Ste. 100, Austin • www.recreationeatx.com

In the news

5 Cisco’s Restaurant Bakery & Bar Cisco’s was awarded $50,000 in grant support from American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation July 29 to upkeep the historic building. The East Austin staple occupies a 110-year-old building that originally housed a local meat market, before founder Rudy Cisneros moved his cafe into the East Sixth Street location in the mid-1900s.

183

2 Nando’s Peri Peri Originating from a small town in South Africa, Nando’s specializes in the spicy, tangy flavors of Peri Peri chicken. Every item on the menu is made to order in the heat level of choice. The restaurant serves its flame-grilled chicken in sandwiches and wraps, with sides or on salads. • Opening this fall • 1825 McBee St., Austin • www.nandosperiperi.com

N. PLEASANT VALLEY RD.

• 1511 E. Sixth St., Austin • www.ciscosaustin.com

973 6 Muzzy’s Bagels The bagel shop recently made a change in chefs, management and menu. Free from sugar, commercial yeast and preservatives, Muzzy’s claims to provide one of the healthiest bagels on the market. The long fermentation process also reduces the bagel’s glycemic index, which makes it more accessible for individuals

MAP NOT TO SCALE

East Austin

• 408 N. Pleasant Valley Road, Austin • www.mercadosinnombre.com

130 TOLL with blood sugar concerns. • 2902 E. 12th St., Austin • www.muzzysbagels.com

Now open

3 Feels So Good A second location of the record and print shop Feels So Good opened, offering records, vintage clothing, screen printing, embroidery and more. Founded in 2007 by Justin Weems and Anthony Sanchez, Feels So Good can also be found at 211 E. Alpine Road, Austin. • Opened July 25 • 1008 E. Sixth St., Austin • www.fsgprints.com 4 Recreation Sports and Social Origin Hospitality—which also owns the Mexican restaurant Ma’Coco down the block and in Buda as well

71 1 Mercado Sin Nombre The neighborhood cafe, owned by Julian Maltby, is now serving several Mexican coffee drinks, with specialties including a cortado and horchata cold brew. The menu also features food items like kolaches and masa-based Twinkies. Maltby said the lack of a distinct name—”sin nombre”—was meant to shift focus to the producers behind the coffee that’s sourced both locally and in Mexico, and roasted in Austin. The cafe is open on select days through its soft opening this summer. Maltby said he’s planning a grand opening later this summer. • Opened in July

Closings

7 Hi Hat Public House Hi Hat Public House announced its closure on social media this summer after 12 years of serving pub food and craft beer and offering regular live music performances at its East Austin location. • Closed in July • 2121 E. Sixth St., Austin • www.hihatpublichouse.com

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Government

BY HALEY MCLEOD & BEN THOMPSON

Travis County leaders OK housing grant plan Travis County commissioners approved a ve-year plan for federal Community Devel- opment Block Grant funding on Aug. 6. By the numbers The county is expected to receive more than $1.6 million in CDBG funding for scal year 2024-25, and $426,704 from local and state aordable housing programs. Based on public feedback, county sta proposed improvement projects using CDBG funding over the next year: • Cardinal Hill Estates road design and construction: $1 million • Northridge Acres wastewater system: $150,000 • General infrastructure: $149,772 • Administration and planning: $324,943

Lisa Davis was conrmed as Austin’s next police chief on Aug. 6 following her appointment by City Manager T.C. Broadnax (left). She’ll succeed interim Police Chief Robin Henderson (right) in September.

BEN THOMPSONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Lisa Davis conrmed as new Austin police chief City Council unanimously conrmed Lisa Davis as chief of the Austin Police Department Aug. 6. The overview Davis will ocially succeed interim Police Chief Robin Henderson after the Labor Day holiday in September. She was hired on a $275,000 salary.

Davis most recently served as assistant chief in Cincinnati, and will be the second-ever permanent woman chief in Austin. Zooming in Broadnax said he picked Davis given “resound- ingly positive” feedback he received from city ocials and community members. Davis said her approach will be based on eective, equitable and ethical policing strategies, and that she’ll work to address APD’s stang shortage and ocer morale.

Austin ocials OK $5.9B city budget, tax increase Austin City Council passed a $5.9 billion budget and a 7% property tax rate increase for scal year 2024-25, in a 10-1 vote on Aug. 14. The big picture

City of Austin tax rates The city's scal year 2024-25 tax rate will be over 7% higher than the current rate, costing the owner of a median-valued home about $188 more in taxes next year. Property tax rate

$2,000 in taxes over the next year, according to city estimates. Utility charges and city fees are projected at about $3,500 in total. The spending plan includes funding for many initiatives including some aimed at homelessness, public safety, parks maintenance and climate planning. Austin’s next scal year starts in October.

$0.6 $0.5 $0.4 $0.3 $0.2 $0.1 0

$0.541 $0.5335

$0.4776

$0.4458 $0.4627

Council approved a tax rate of $0.4776 per $100 of property value for the upcoming scal year. The owner of a median-valued home in Austin— assessed at $524,082—can expect to pay nearly

2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 SOURCE: CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

2020-21

NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Environment

BY BEN THOMPSON

Over the next several years, one of the two main treatment plants handling Austin’s wastewater will be receiving upgrades. The more than $1 billion in expansion and improvement projects at the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant will be supported in part by an increase in Austin Water utility bills starting later this year. AW ocials say the utility remains equipped to process the tens of millions of gallons that ow through the system daily. The plant expansion is needed to serve a growing customer base. To comply with state environmental mandates for wastewater systems, according to AW ocials. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality requires expansion plans to begin when facilities reach 75% of their capacity. The plant now processes about 80% of its capacity daily. Austin Water rate increase approved

Facility upgrades

E. MARTIN LUTHER KING BLVD.

Projects totaling over $1 billion will improve systems and expand capacity at one of Austin’s two main wastewater treatment plants. Plant protection: $120M* • New facility to handle high water levels during rainfall: $80M • Flood wall: $40M

JOHNNY MORRIS RD.

Treatment conversion: $220M* • Modernize existing capacity with new treatment processes, including nutrient removal and ultraviolet, or UV, disinfection

Plant renewal: $270M* • Structural rehabilitation: $250M • Water pumping station replacement: $20M

Expansion: $440M* • Increase capacity with modern treatment processes: $380M • New pipelines: $60M

WALNUT CREEK

*ROUNDED ESTIMATES

SOURCE: AUSTIN WATER, CITY OF AUSTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Expansion explained

The cost

What’s next

The program is headlined by an expansion of the plant’s permitted treatment capacity from 75 to 100 million gallons of water daily, or MGD. It currently handles an average ow of 60 MGD. One million gallons would ll about 25,000 standard bathtubs, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Overall, Austin’s two main wastewater facili- ties—Walnut Creek and the South Austin Regional treatment plant—handle between 99-109 MGD.

A large chunk of project funding could come from the Environmental Protection Agency. In July, city ocials advanced Austin’s application for a federal Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act loan of up to $446.84 million. AW customers will also be on the hook for some project costs. The utility spent months studying an increase to its water service rates this year, according to AW representatives, partially driven by large infrastructure investments like those coming at Walnut Creek. City Council approved new rates for scal year 2024-25 on Aug. 14 that will increase water bills for the average resident by about 7.31%, or about $6 per month. The changes follow months of public engagement that garnered feedback from hundreds of Austinites, who asked for a rate structure supporting aordability, water conservation, and system resilience and reliability. AW spokesperson Martin Barbosa said the utility’s tiered rate system priori- tizes aordability and stability.

Final completion is expected in 2031. AW ocials said customers won't see service impacts while improvements are made.

Austin Water service area Walnut Creek sewer system area South Austin Regional sewer system area Wastewater facilities Austin wastewater service

AW wastewater capacity

Walnut Creek plant

South Austin Regional plant

45 TOLL

MGD (millions of gallons per day)

125

2031: 100

2005: 75 2005: 75

360

1988: 50

290

100

MOPAC

1990: 60

130 TOLL

2031: 75

183

South Austin Regional plant

45 TOLL

1980 1990

2000

2010

2020

2030

NOTE: AUSTIN WATER ALSO HAS EIGHT SMALLER WASTEWATER PLANTS IN OUTLYING AREAS, MOSTLY ACQUIRED THROUGH ANNEXATION, WITH A COMBINED 4.63 MGD CAPACITY.

SOURCE: AUSTIN WATERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY BEN THOMPSON

Safety initiative looks to bolster downtown EMS presence

Lady Bird Lake waterfront deaths Accidental drowning Suicide Murder

A city initiative launched last year in response to safety concerns around Rainey Street will likely become a permanent fixture as part of an expanded EMS presence downtown. The medic deployment helped dozens of people and officials said likely prevented several injuries or deaths near Lady Bird Lake between June 2023 and early April. On average, one paramedic and one EMT staffed a special response unit, or SRU—a golf cart-sized vehicle flexible for medical responses in the busy entertainment district on weekends. Medics logged responses to dozens of incidents over the course of the pilot, including multiple water rescues, according to EMS records. An EMS spokesperson said the pilot “abso- lutely” helped prevent injuries or deaths in the area, and Austin EMS Association President Selena Xie said the program’s impact was likely far greater than the nearly 50 formally reported responses.

Overdose

Natural causes

Undetermined/other

0 2 4 6 8 10 12

2015

2016 2017

2018 2019 2020 2021 2024 *OF THE FIVE ACCIDENTAL DROWNINGS IN 2023, FOUR TOOK PLACE BEFORE THE EMS PILOT PROGRAM BEGAN AND THE FIFTH WAS ON A WEEKDAY NIGHT WHEN NO MEDICS WERE STATIONED ON RAINEY STREET. 2022 2023*

SOURCE: AUSTIN POLICE DEPARTMENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Of five accidental drownings reported in 2023, four took place before the EMS pilot program began, while the fifth occurred when no medics were stationed in the area. This year, a person who died of an undetermined cause was found in the lake about a week after the program ended.

What’s next Following the perceived success of the pilot, City Council voted to establish a permanent EMS command for the downtown area starting in October. A similar safety pilot will also begin in The Domain.

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NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN EDITION

Government

BY ELLE BENT

Austin undergoes process to fund climate-related projects The projects that would be funded by a potential bond are not yet nalized but may likely include land acquisition, tree planting, water conservation and ood mitigation, according to the resolution. Council would have to approve any potential projects at a later date. The specics “There is a real urgency to this, [and we’re] trying to do this in a collaborative way, consistent with past processes.” MAYOR KIRK WATSON

A resolution passed by City Council on July 18 will enact a formal process of creating a climate-re- lated bond package before Austin voters see a one on a ballot. The overview The resolution, authored by Mayor Kirk Watson, enacts the following: • Directs council to create a bond election advisory task force to consider specic projects to include in a bond package • Directs Austin City Manager T.C. Broadnax to conduct briengs on the city’s bond ratings and debt status • Directs Broadnax to propose a bond package that includes funds for climate-related projects to be placed on the ballot no later than November 2026 • Directs Broadnax to identify other funding sources for climate projects, such as federal grants or utility fees

Discussion surrounding a bond to fund cli- mate-related projects began in February, when council member Ryan Alter authored a resolution to search for additional funding sources toward already-implemented climate goals, such as the Austin Climate Equity Plan. Alter, alongside other council members, including Vanessa Fuentes, previously expressed a need to place a bond on the ballot this November, noting the eects of climate change “can’t wait.” City nancial sta recommended not to go for another bond until at least 2026, as multiple bond projects are still underway.

City sta often tout Austin as a national leader in climate action, with over 15 years of sta working toward initiatives, such as the goal established in the 2021 Climate Equity Plan to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. This means local greenhouse gas emissions would be removed from the atmosphere through reductions, storage or carbon oset credits. Alter told Community Impact in February his initial resolution addressed the types of investments ocials need to make to reach the already-set goals.

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Community

BY BEN THOMPSON

Local Groups pitch Austin for any possible MLB expansion

Eorts to attract a Major League Baseball team to Austin are underway. It remains to be seen how MLB would pursue a league expansion—a process not likely to start for several more years, if at all. But some locals and public ocials are gearing up for a new team and promoting the region for a new pro baseball market. What’s happening Even with no ocial process underway, Matt Mackowiak, co-founder of the Austin Baseball Commission, and commission co-founder Derrik Fox believe it’s time to start planning. The duo said the Austin Baseball Commission will build community buy-in, review stadium sites and put together a nancial plan. As of this summer, they’re not the only ones eyeing a role for Central Texas in the major leagues. Jason Gindele, founder of Austin MLB, said that group was formed last spring in anticipation of an expansion in ve years or more. The organization is preparing a coalition of former baseball players, business and community leaders, and possible owners. Put in perspective Any new club would face an array of challenges before rst pitch. For one, Gindele said the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros likely wouldn’t give up their presence in Central Texas without compensation. Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell said he’s been working on the possibility of bringing MLB north of Austin for years. He said the county’s work with Samsung, Dell and Apple, as well as the presence of attractions such as Dell Diamond and

Central Texas is home to minor league teams, such as the Round Rock Express, Texas Stars and Austin Spurs, as well as the Texas Longhorns at the college level, but it’s yet to land a team from any of the four major North American sports leagues.

HALEY MCLEODCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Kalahari Resort, make it a competitive option. The outlook Reid Ryan, the son of Baseball Hall of Fame member Nolan Ryan, is CEO of Ryan Sanders Baseball that owns and operates the Round Rock Express and is involved in operating the San Antonio Missions. Despite anticipation building in Austin, he cautioned against hopes for a team in the near future, noting other issues within MLB will likely take priority. Ryan’s baseball partnership would also be involved in any future discussions over a local major league team.

“We really want to focus on the here and now, which is continuing to make sure that we have one of the best facilities in Triple-A baseball. When the time comes, we’ll be ready.” REID RYAN, CEO OF RYAN SANDERS BASEBALL

He said ongoing work with the Austin baseball community—supporting RBI Austin’s move to Colony Park, overseeing the Express, and planning a new San Antonio stadium—remain top of mind.

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Transportation

Education

BY HALEY MCLEOD

BY ELLE BENT

Austin ISD asks voters for tax increase to offset $119M deficit

Capital Metro halts electric bus plans An underestimation of the logistics in implementing an all-electric bus route has led Capital Metro officials to halt converting the entire fleet to battery-electric buses. In 2021, CapMetro officials approved a $255 million purchase of 197 electric buses. However, the change in plans is a result of shipping delays and infrastructure issues. The largest producer of electric buses, Proterra, went bankrupt, so supply chain problems have led to long wait times to receive a bus. Additionally, there is not enough opera- tional charging station infrastructure and the time it takes to charge puts a bus out of commission. Officials are evaluating alternatives, like hybrids of electric batteries and diesel or hydrogen fuel systems.

Safety improvements headed to downtown Improvements to a series of transit options along San Jacinto Boulevard and Trinity Street in downtown Austin began this month. More details Enhancements will improve cyclist and pedes- trian safety as well as support bus efficiency and operations, thanks to a joint effort between the city and Capital Metro. Plans for the two roadways, running from East Cesar Chavez Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, include: • Adding bus-only lanes at 10 existing routes along this stretch • Adding protected bicycle lanes • Improving pedestrian crossings • Maintaining parking and vehicle access or other vehicle traffic

E. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD.

Austin ISD officials are depending on voters’ approval of a tax rate increase in order to lessen a looming budget deficit of $119 million. At an Aug. 19 meeting, the AISD board of trustees voted 8-1, with board member Kevin Foster voting no, to place the issue on the November ballot. Foster cited that more money would be given to the state due to recapture—when the state takes local property tax dollars from a district to redistribute to other public school districts— and would do little to ease the deficit. Recapture payments would increase with a voter-approval tax rate election, or VATRE, by an additional $130 million. Officials predict a VATRE would generate $41 million after recapture in revenue under a tax rate of $0.9505 per $100 valuation. This would be a $34-per-month increase to the average homeowner and is an 8.3% increase from the current tax rate of $0.8595 per $100 valuation. A VATRE would give way to adjust employee pay

Comparing tax rates How the average Austin ISD taxpayer will be affected by a potential tax increase:

FY 2023-24 CURRENT

$0.8595 per $100 valuation

$34 monthly increase

PROPOSED FY 2024-25

$0.9505 per $100 valuation

For the average $553,493 appraised home, the average homeowner would pay $4,310 in Austin ISD taxes. An estimated $821M would be taken by the state due to recapture.

For the average $553,493 appraised home, the average homeowner would pay $3,897 in Austin ISD taxes. An estimated $691M would be taken by the state due to recapture.

Operational enhancements for bus routes in the area will support the Project Connect MetroRapid line, which is expected to begin service in 2025, according to CapMetro. Drivers should expect intermittent lane closures while crews are working in the area. Improve- ments are anticipated for completion by the end of the year.

SOURCE: AUSTIN ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

been in support of a pay increase through the VATRE. Additionally, four seats on the board of trustees are up for election in November.

to compare with other districts and a $0.25-per- hour increase for hourly employees. Without the VATRE, the district won’t offer the pay increases. The district’s labor union Education Austin has

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Education Private School Guide

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

2024

Austin Classical School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-12 Religious orientation: Christian Enrollment: 343 Tuition: varies by grade level • 10500 Jollyville Road, Bldg. A, Austin • www.austinclassical.org Austin Jewish Academy Type: religious-based Grades served: K-8 Religious orientation: Jewish Enrollment: 95 Tuition: $20,000 • 7300 Hart Lane, Austin • www.austinjewishacademy.org Austin Rising Type: micro-school, homeschool co-op Grades served: 1-8 Religious orientation: N/A Enrollment: 20-30 Tuition: $7,550 • Austin Rising North, 7500 Woodrow Ave.; Austin Rising School, 6211 Parkwood Drive, Austin • www.austinrisingschool.com Cathedral School of Saint Mary Type: project-based Grades served: pre-K3-8 Religious orientation: Catholic Enrollment: 170 Tuition: $6,000-$7,500 (depending on how many children you enroll)

AHB Community School Type: micro-school Grades served: K-8 Religious orientation: N/A

• 2901 Shoal Creek Blvd., Austin • www.austingifted.com

Enrollment: 90 Tuition: $12,700

The Girls’ School of Austin Type: all-girls school Grades served: K-8 Religious orientation: N/A

Griffin School Type: college-preparatory Grades served: 9-12 Religious orientation: N/A

Enrollment: 150 Tuition: $21,000

Enrollment: 160 Tuition: $21,600

• 910 San Jacinto Blvd., Austin • www.smcschoolaustin.org

• 2007 McCall Road, Austin • www.thegirlsschool.org

• 5001 Evans Ave., Austin • www.griffinschool.org

CONTINUED ON 22

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Education

Enrollment: 163 Tuition: $13,800 • 2512 S. First St., Austin • www.sjdchs.org

• 306 W. 29th St., Austin • www.kirbyhallschool.org

CONTINUED FROM 21

Huntington-Surrey School Type: college-preparatory Grades served: 9-12 Religious orientation: N/A

Magellan International School Type: International Baccalaureate Grades served: pre-K-9; 10th to start in 2025 Religious orientation: N/A Enrollment: 620 Tuition: $20,000 • 7130 Chimney Corners, Austin; 7501 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin • www.magellanschool.org Redeemer Lutheran School and Preschool Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: Lutheran/Christian Enrollment: 171 (pre-K), 382 (K-8) Tuition: $6,710-$13,860 • 1500 W. Anderson Lane, Austin; Sister high school is Concordia High School, 1201 S. Heatherwilde Blvd., Pflugerville • www.redeemerschool.net San Juan Diego Catholic High School Type: religious-based, college-preparatory Grades served: 9-12 Religious orientation: Catholic

St. Andrew's Episcopal School Type: college-preparatory Grades served: K-12 Religious orientation: Episcopalian Enrollment: 980 Tuition: $30,700-$37,000

Enrollment: 30 Tuition: $17,635

• 4700 Grover Ave., Austin • www.huntingtonsurrey.org

Hyde Park Schools Type: religious-based, college preparatory Grades served: 4K-12 Religious orientation: Christian Enrollment: 791 Tuition: $15,630-$25,233 • Elementary and middle school campus: 3901 Speedway, Austin; High school campus: 11400 North Mopac Expressway, Austin • www.hpaustin.org

• Upper school campus: 5901 Southwest Parkway, Austin; Lower and middle school campus: 112 W. 31st St., Austin • www.sasaustin.org

St. Austin Catholic School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K3-8 Religious orientation: Catholic (Paulist Fathers) Enrollment: 180 Tuition: $11,500-$12,500 • 2026 Guadalupe St., Austin • www.staustinschool.org

Kirby Hall School Type: college-preparatory Grades served: pre-K4-8 Religious orientation: N/A Enrollment: 68 Tuition: $7,475-$20,625

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St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K3-8 Religious orientation: Catholic Enrollment: 160

Tuition: $7,000-$9,000 • 120 W. Oltorf St., Austin • www.school.st-ignatius.org St. Theresa Catholic School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K3-8 Religious orientation: Catholic

Enrollment: 385 Tuition: $11,000 • 4311 Small Drive, Austin • www.st-theresa.org

Headwaters School Type: Montessori, International Baccalaureate diploma program Grades served: 18 months-12th grade Religious orientation: N/A Enrollment: 505 Tuition: $15,700-$28,400 • Spring Campus, 6305 Menchaca Road; Creek Campus, 9607 Brodie Lane; River Campus, 801

St. Louis King of France Catholic School Type: religious-based Grades served: K-8 Religious orientation: Catholic

Studio Preparatory Type: project-based, homeschool co-op Grades served: 3-12 Religious orientation: Christian Enrollment: 63 Tuition: $6,000-$10,000 annually • 5925 Dillard Circle, Ste. B, Austin • www.studioprep.org This list is not comprehensive.

Enrollment: 300 Tuition: $9,026 • 2114 St. Joseph Blvd., Austin • www.st-louis.org

Rio Grande St., Austin • www.headwaters.org

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