San Marcos - Buda - Kyle Edition | March 2026

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San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 11 MARCH 24 APRIL 23, 2026

2026 Voter Guide

Hemphill Elementary School students work with third-grade teacher Anissa Aguilar on a science project. District ocials are considering increasing class sizes as they look for ways to reduce spending. (Courtesy Moses Leos III/Hays CISD)

Hays CISD braces for cuts amid dwindling fund balance

to hurt,” HCISD Chief Communication Ocer Tim Savoy said. “But I know that the focus is going to be on what cuts are the least disruptive to the very basic product we deliver: education. But they’re all going to hurt.”

state funding. In June, the state approved about $8 billion in public school allocations, but district ocials said it’s not enough. With rising costs and stagnant funding, ocials must now consider budget cuts. “There’s not anything we can cut that isn’t going

BY SIENNA WIGHT

Budget season for Hays CISD will start with cuts March 30, following voter rejection of a higher property tax rate. Since 2021, HCISD has pulled from its fund balance to maintain operations while waiting for increased

CONTINUED ON 22

Spring market guide Page 16 Browse our listings and pick a few vendors to explore

Three Six General Page 20 Get the scoop on the woman-owned butcher shop

Buda Wiener Dog Races Page 24 See why Buda is “The Wiener Dog Capital of Texas”

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

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Impacts

• Opens April 6 • 4002 S. I-35, San Marcos • www.slimchickens.com

E. SESSOM DR.

AQUARENA SPRINGS DR.

HILL HOUSE CIRCLE

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

N. LBJ DR.

4 Birkenstock A $50,000 renovation and alteration project for the shoe store is slated for completion May 1. The brand sells sandals, clogs, professional shoes, sneakers, boots and footwear-related accessories for men, women and children. • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 N. I-35, Ste. 1350, San Marcos • www.birkenstock.com 5 The Market at Kissing Tree Construction on two retail shell buildings is scheduled to begin in early May at a cost of more than $7 million. The project will add more than 40,000 square feet of retail space for future tenants. • Hunter Road and Center Point Road, San Marcos • www.malabarhillcapital.com/properties 6 Miss A Work on a 2,900-square-foot shop is expected to be completed in late March. The retailer is known for aordable beauty and lifestyle products, including makeup, skin care, hair accessories, jewelry, bath items and home goods. • Tanger Outlets San Marcos, 4015 S. I-35, Ste. 338-E, San Marcos • www.shopmissa.com

OLD MAIN DR.

UNIVERSITY DR.

S. GUADALUPE ST.

1984

San Marcos

SAN MARCOS RIVER

LEAH AVE.

123

WHEAT FIELD LN.

621

CENTER POINT RD.

RATTLER RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

San Marcos

Coming soon

2 Just a Closet Self Storage The facility will oer a mix of climate-controlled and non-climate-controlled units in multiple sizes for residential, business and seasonal storage needs. • Opening by late spring • 4508 Hwy. 123, San Marcos • www.justacloset.com 3 Slim Chickens The Arkansas-based restaurant will occupy the former Zaxby’s Chicken Fingers & Bualo Wings location, which closed in June 2025. The menu at Slim Chickens includes fried and grilled chicken dishes, 14 sauce options, sides such as fried okra and potato salad, and house-made desserts.

Now open

1 Cuadra Cuadra is the latest retailer to open its brick-and- mortar location at the San Marcos Premium Outlets. The store sells boots, shoes, apparel and accessories made from exotic leather for both men and women. • Opened Feb. 17 • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 N. I-35, Ste. 927, San Marcos • www.cuadrashop.com

In the news

8 Maurice T. Suttles VFW Post 3413 The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in February to commemorate VFW Post 3413’s 90 years of service to area veterans and the community. The post hosts local events and gatherings, and the hall is available for rent. • 1701 Hunter Road, San Marcos • Facebook: vfwpost3413

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BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLIORN

8 Ranch at 1856 Apartments The apartment complex reopened in early February following major renovations and amenity upgrades. New features include pickleball courts, a new parking lot, upgraded interiors and exteriors, a pet park and a playground. • 1805 N. I-35, San Marcos • www.the1856apartments.com

Now open

In the news

Worth the trip

Old City Hall Restaurant & Bar Owned by Wiggins Hospitality Group, the company behind McAdoo's Seafood Company and La Cosecha Mexican Table, the restaurant is located in the former New Braunfels City Hall building and serves upscale American diner and steakhouse fare. • Opened Feb. 17 • 200 N. Seguin Ave., New Braunfels • www.oldcityhalltx.com

9 The Soccer Factory The store oers cleats and soccer boots for multiple playing surfaces, including grass, turf and indoor courts, as well as licensed jerseys, apparel, equipment, soccer balls and goalie gear. Customers can also purchase customized items or place bulk orders. • Opened Feb. 14 • Tanger Outlets San Marcos, 4015 S. I-35, San Marcos • www.thesoccerfactory.com

10 The Wittli Collection Founded in 1986, the museum at Texas State University is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a 40-object exhibition. “The Spirit of The Wittli” highlights the museum’s history through items

collected over the past four decades. • Albert B. Alkek Library, 7th floor, 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.thewittliffcollections.txst.edu

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Impacts

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & SIENNA WIGHT

45 TOLL

academy’s founder Edward “Scissorhands” Anthony. Now, Yeti will oer his own classes for kids ages four and older, focused on condence, discipline, tness and community. • Opened Jan. 5

In the news

MCKINNON LOOP

HARDIN LOOP

• 2581 South Loop 4, Unit 525, Buda • www.atlasjiujitsu.com/buda-texas

CABELAS DR.

Buda

1626

Coming soon

2001

2770

2 Water Works Express Austin local Je Blansit will oer a range of services such as undercarriage rinse, foam polish, rust inhibitor and more.

1626

WINDY HILL RD.

• Opening early 2027 • 2345 Main St., Buda • https://waterworksxpress.com 2001

4 Memorial Miniature Golf and Museum Memorial Miniature Golf and Museum is celebrating ve years in Buda this spring. Each stop on the 18-hole course is dedicated to a veteran of World War II, the Korean War or the Vietnam War. The museum portion is designed to honor veterans while educating visitors about World War II and related service history. • 1710 N. Farm to Market 1626, Buda • www.memorialminigolf.com

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

Buda

3 Crash Champions Work on a 15,131-square-foot shop is expected to run from March 23 to Sept. 23, and cost $4.5 million. Crash Champions specializes in collision repair services on a range of vehicles, including many luxury brands. • 18000 S. I-35, Buda • www.crashchampions.com 21

Now open

Kyle

1 Atlas Jiu-Jitsu Since 2014, Buda local and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Jim “Yeti” Niemie has trained with the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

150

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Impacts

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLIORN

2001

4 Jeremiah’s Italian Ice The eatery oers 30 avors of authentic, housemade Italian ice and creamy soft serve. The two treats can be layered to create the brand’s “jelati”, which customers can decorate with avorful mix-ins such as Oreo crumbles, Rainbow Nerds and more. • Opens April 1 • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Bldg. A-100, Kyle • www.jeremiahsice.com

conditioning and functional movement, nutritional support and complimentary child care services. • Opened in January • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Bldg. C, Kyle • www.burnbootcamp.com 2 Perspire Sauna Studio Owners Jackie Mendes-Schweitzer and Michael Schweitzer, both proponents of preventive health and living better, opened a 1,800-square-foot studio oering red-light therapy with seven private infrared sauna suites and four SNØ Showers. • Opened Feb. 6 • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Bldg. A-200, Kyle • www.perspiresaunastudio.com 21 2001

KYLE CROSSING

HEROES MEMORIAL DR.

WINDY HILL RD.

150

2 4

1626

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

VER

5 Rio West Outtters Work on the 7,200-square-foot western apparel shop is expected to £nish by mid-June. Rio West Out£tters oers apparel and accessories from brands such as Ariat, Levi’s and Wrangler.

Kyle

150

Coming soon

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• 340 E. FM 150, Ste. 100, Kyle • www.riowestout¤itters.com

3 Zaytoon Mediterranean Grill Construction on the 1,500-square-foot restaurant began Feb. 3. Owner Mohamad Taory will oer dishes such as chicken shawarma, gyros and more. • Opening in mid-2026 • 1050 Bunton Creek Road, Ste. 300, Kyle • No public website was available as of press time

Kyle

6 Spec’s Wine, Spirits and Food Construction on Kyle’s £rst Spec’s Wines, Spirits and Foods began Jan. 15. The store oers drinks, barware and snacks.

Now open

• 3933 Kyle Crossing, Kyle • www.specsonline.com

1 Burn Boot Camp Local franchise partners Kellie and Lance Heller oer 45-minute workouts that combine strength,

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

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Government

BY MICHAEL MILLIORN

San Marcos City Council denies data center plans Plans for a proposed 200-acre data center in San Marcos were halted Feb. 17 when council members rejected a Preferred Scenario Map amendment. The requested change would have allowed land- owners, Highlander SM One LLC, or John Maberry, and Donald and Germaine Tu to develop a data center—a project met with signicant pushback from community members. What happened Hundreds of residents gathered outside the San Marcos courthouse to protest the proposed data center, waving handmade signs outlining their opposition. Over 100 community members spoke on the data center during the meeting’s almost ve- hour-long citizen comment period. Inside the council chambers, dozens of members of the San Antonio-based labor union LiUNA! Laborers Local 1095 stood in support of the project.

Hundreds of San Marcos residents gathered at the city courthouse to protest a proposed data center on Feb. 17. The council voted to deny a map amendment, stopping the project’s development. The impact

Hays County-area news 3 stories we’re following online

1 San Marcos increases downtown police presence with partnership Following several violent crimes in the San Marcos downtown square in 2025, City Council approved a partnership with Texas State University to enhance public safety at a Feb. 3 meeting. 2 Hays County OKs water study amid severe drought Hays County will get its rst comprehensive water study since 2011 after a Hays County Commissioners Court decision at a Jan. 20 meeting. 3 Buda approves $242K contract for development code update The Buda City Council approved a contract with Kending Keast Collaborative for a comprehensive update of the City’s Uni ed Development Code. The contract may not exceed $242,260.

MICHAEL MILLIORNCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Donning bright orange shirts, members spoke on the union construction jobs the data center project would create. A majority of speakers voiced their opposition to the data center, citing high water usage, increased strain on the ERCOT grid and potential environmen- tal impacts on the surrounding land and residents.

Legal questions stall proposed Hays County moratorium on water-heavy projects

Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra tabled the item following community testimony and legal advice from counsel, who conrmed the county’s lack of legal authority to impose a development moratorium. Hays County and the surrounding region continue to face long-standing water challenges, including a severe multiyear drought.

Hays County Commissioners Court tabled three agenda items related to emergency drought response, conservation and a development moratorium during a Feb. 24 meeting. The overview The items would have addressed concerns sur- rounding water availability and potential develop- ments that use large amounts of water.

“I will not back down. I will push for additional awareness. I will push for another way to do this. I will push, and I will not slow down, and I will not back off.” RUBEN BECERRA, HAYS COUNTY JUDGE

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Development

BY MICHAEL MILLIORN

HEB to give old Buda landll new life

The breakdown

H-E-B will repurpose at least 60% of its existing Buda store for new retail businesses within 18 months of the new store opening. The city of Buda and Hays County will provide H-E-B with $20.1 million in incentives to help o set the site’s estimated $30 million remediation cost.

A former landll site that has been vacant for decades will be home to a new H-E-B in Buda—about a quarter mile north of the current store, which will be repurposed for other businesses. City of Buda and Hays County ocials are partnering with H-E-B to develop the new store, which is expected to create at least 50 full-time-equivalent jobs within its rst year of operation. The partners conducted site reviews and will make environmental remediation repairs, according to ocials with the Buda Economic Development Corp., who noted construction will begin later this year. Ocials said H-E-B will also make roadway improvements following the completion of a trac impact analysis, including upgrades to the Old San Antonio Road connector.

OLD SAN ANTONIO RD.

New H-E-B

Current H-E-B

Landll remediation cost breakdown Rebates will come from sales and property taxes over 30 years.

$12.1M -City of Buda and Buda EDC

Total: $30M

$4M -Hays County $4M -Hays County Emergency Services District No. 8 $9.9M -H-E-B

A new Buda HEB will be located on the southbound access road of I35, north of Main Street.

MICHAEL MILLIORNCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: BUDA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP.COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Development

BY MICHAEL MILLIORN

The city of Kyle was awarded a $750,000 non-urban outdoor grant by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, or TPWC, for the rst phase of renovations to Steeplechase Park. The project aims to improve accessibility, expand recreation and increase environmental care, according to the city. The project will be supported with a $750,000 city match, bringing the park improvement funding total to $1.5 million. The grant is structured as a reimbursable funding program, allowing the city to manage public dollars while advancing park improvements as funds are paid back by the TPWC. The city adopted a Parks, Recreation and Outdoor Space master plan, or PROS master plan, in May 2025. That plan details goals for improving existing parks across Kyle. $1.5M upgrades set for Kyle park

The background

Steeplechase Park

PLUM CREEK

The Steeplechase Park project will include a 12-foot multi-use trail featuring lighting, a pedes- trian bridge, amenities, signage and trail markers, landscaping and creek restoration. “From the master plan, we’ll be able to determine our phase one capability, which will primarily fund these elements and potentially others,” Escoto said. The renovation will include the development of courts to support popular activities such as pickleball, sand volleyball and basketball. O cials will also improve the playability and safety of the existing disc golf course. An American bumblebee habitat will be estab- lished along Plum Creek featuring plants native to the area, nesting features and educational signage.

STEEPLECHASE PARK

HALLIE DR.

GOLDENROD ST.

LEHMAN RD.

“Steeplechase Park is undergoing an Individual Site Master Plan, reimagining what that park could be,” said Chris Escoto, city of Kyle deputy director of Parks and Recreation. “We’ll be able to determine our Phase 1 capability, which will primarily fund these elements and potentially others.”

Planned renovations

Pollinator habitat creation

Multi-use sports courts Disc golf course enhancements

Vybe trail expansion

SOURCE: CITY OF KYLECOMMUNITY IMPACT

The next steps

Kyle City Council for consideration during an upcoming April meeting. If approved, city sta will begin producing the design and construction documentation.

The Individual Site Master Plan will guide the sequencing, design and prioritization of future investments at the park. Project plans are expected to be presented to

City parks and recreation department sta members are nalizing the Steeplechase Park Master Plan, outlining long-term park improvements.

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Transportation

BY MICHAEL MILLIORN

2001

2 Bebee Road East additions Project: The project adds approximately 2.1 miles of four-lane roadway and three roundabouts for the eastern portion. Update: The design phase is 90% complete. • Timeline: 2023-fall 2029 • Cost: $42.3 million to $45.4 million 3 Kohlers to Seton overpass connection Project: The project adds an overpass to create space for a Kohlers Crossing connection. Update: The design phase is 90% complete. The nal design is expected in spring 2027. • Timeline: 2023-fall 2029 • Cost: $45 million to $49.2 million 4 Windy Hill Road improvements 21 Project: The project expands the roadway to four lanes, improves intersections, extends a low-water crossing culvert and adds modern drainage facilities. Update: A construction contract for the project was awarded to Smith Contracting Co. Inc. on Feb. 17 with 2001

KOHLERS CROSSING

PURPLE MARTIN AVE.

Upcoming project

WINDY HILL RD.

SUNLIGHT BLVD.

GREEN PASTURES RD.

SETON PKWY.

Kyle

MAP NOT TO SCALE

5 Kohlers to Seton extension Project: Extends the road from I-35 northbound frontage road to Seton Parkway. Update: The baseline construction schedule was approved in November, all necessary rights of way and easements have been secured, and work has begun on utility installation and wastewater system improvements. • Timeline: 2023-summer 2027 • Cost: $28.1 million to $30 million

Upcoming projects

1 Bebee Road West realignment Project: The project realigns sharp curves and adds capacity to a 1-mile stretch, with a new roundabout for the western portion. Update: The baseline construction schedule was approved in November, all necessary rights of way and easements have been secured, and work has begun on roadway preparation and drainage improvements. • Timeline: 2023-summer 2027 • Cost: $19.9 million to $21.6 million

the possibility of a future change order. • Timeline: construction begins in April • Cost: $13.8 million to $14.6 million

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Election

BY SIENNA WIGHT

Voter Guide

2026

Dates to know

Where to vote

April 2: last day to register to vote for the May 2 election April 20: rst day of early voting in person; absentee ballot application deadline

Hays County voters can use any polling location during early voting and on election day. Visit www.hayscountytx.gov/elections for polling locations and additional election information.

April 21: polls closed for San Jacinto Day April 28: last day of early voting in person May 2: election day, last day to receive absentee ballot

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

Hays CISD trustee, Single-Member-District 2

Why are you running for Hays CISD board of trustees?

By far the biggest challenge facing the district is balancing rapid growth with responsible budgeting. We must protect classrooms while managing taxpayer dollars wisely. I will advocate for clear nancial oversight, long-term planning, and open communication so families understand where money is going and how decisions directly impact students. What is the biggest challenge facing the district, and how would you address it? The biggest concern is our current budget shortfall. The State has failed to adequately fund schools across Texas. When elected, I will work with the district to balance the budget while remembering that these decisions will have very real consequences for my community. What is the biggest challenge facing the district, and how would you address it? Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time. What is the biggest challenge facing the district, and how would you address it? Rapid growth is the district’s greatest challenge. We must plan proactively to manage enrollment increases, facility needs, and stang demands while maintaining academic quality. Through responsible budgeting, data- driven planning, and a focus on classroom impact, we can ensure growth strengthens our schools. What is the biggest challenge facing the district, and how would you address it?

Jose Luis “Lewis” Perez Occupation & experience: Independent oil and gas landman for 19 years, life insurance representative for ve years https://www.facebook.com/ prole.php?id=61588400896583 Katy Armstrong Occupation & experience: Educator, Master’s in Education, Facilities and Bond Oversight Committee member, Chair of Kyle Housing Authority https://www.facebook.com/ KatyForHaysCISD

I am passionate about education and want to give back to my amazing community. As Trustee, I will be a strong advocate for families in our district and a responsible steward of our tax dollars.

Why are you running for Hays CISD board of trustees?

As a member of this community my children are students of this district. I hope to bring steady, common-sense leadership focused on students, parents, and teachers; to ensure our district prioritizes academic excellence, scal responsibility, and transparency while keeping politics out of classrooms. Decisions should always put kids rst.

Hays CISD trustee, At-Large

Why are you running for Hays CISD board of trustees?

Ashlee Thurston Occupation & experience: Parent, former district substitute, with background in nancial and operational oversight

As a parent and community member, I’m running to support strong academic outcomes, responsible scal stewardship, and sustainable growth. I want thoughtful oversight that keeps students at the center of decisions and ensures resources are managed eciently to benet classrooms.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time. Why are you running for Hays CISD board of trustees?

Alex Zavala Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Business Spring market guide

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLIORN

• Second Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. • Mary Kyle Hartson Park, 101 S. Burleson Street, Kyle • www.cityofkyle.gov

San Marcos

Dripping Springs

• Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Hays County Historic Courthouse, 111 E. San Antonio St., San Marcos • Facebook: San Marcos TX Farmers Market

Downtown Buda Farmers Market Vendors range from farmers to ranchers, artisans and more, with goods including produce, eggs and art. • Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Tuesdays, 3-7 p.m. • Saturdays, Garcia’s, 121 N. Main St., Buda; Tuesdays, Gray Gardens, 767 Main St., Buda • www.budafarmersmarket.com

Key:

Dripping Springs Farmers Market Oers a variety of produce, breads, plants, artisan products and hand-made crafts. • Wednesdays, 3 p.m.-6 p.m. • Dripping Springs Ranch Park, 1042 Event Center Drive, Dripping Springs • www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/farmersmarket

SNAP accepted SNAP not accepted Artisans Farmers and artisans

San Marcos Flea Market Oers artisan products ranging from home decor to

San Marcos

clothing, antiques and more. • Weekends, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • Wonder World Cave & Adventure Park, 1000 Prospect St., San Marcos • www.wonderworldpark.com

Kyle

Free-Range Farmers Market Oers fresh produce, locally made sourdough bread, honey, granola, beauty products, dog treats, jewelry, plants and more. • Fridays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • Wake the Dead Coffee House on Fridays, 1432 Old RR 12, San Marcos; The Vibe SMTX on

Wimberley

Kyle Flea Market Oers art, clothing, comic books, dishware, home decor, jewelry, plants, sports cards, vintage furniture and children’s toys. • Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • Kyle Flea Market, 1119 S. Old Highway 81, Kyle • www.kylefleamarket.net Kyle Market Days Oers a variety of produce and hand-crafted art, along with crafts and live music.

Wimberley Market Days Hosts 490 vendor booths oering handmade crafts, art, soaps, lotions, clothing, food, produce, antiques, plants, furniture and toys. • First Saturdays, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. • Wimberley Market Days, 601 Farm to Market Rd 2325, Wimberley • www.wimberleymarketday.com This list is not comprehensive.

Buda

Budaful Farmers Market Vendors range from local ranchers to cottage bakeries, plant nurseries, kitchenware and more. • Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • City Park Pavilion, 204 San Antonio St., Buda • www.budafulfarmersmarket.com

Sundays, 145 Coers Drive, San Marcos • Facebook: Free Range Farmers Market

Art Squared Arts Market Focused on all things artistic, the arts and ne crafts market showcases local artists, rain or shine, with products ranging from paintings and sculptures to glasswork, textiles, jewelry, woodworking and more. Attendees can watch live art demonstrations and

browse booths while listening to live music. • Second Saturdays, March-December, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. • Downtown San Marcos, The Square • www.artsquaredmarket.com

San Marcos Farmers Market Oers fresh produce, baked goods, meat, eggs, honey, herbal teas, artisan products and live music.

SAN MARCOS 510 Barnes Dr (512) 392-0366

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www.newbraunfelsareacarclub.com Comal County Fair Grounds – 801 E. Common St. April 17, 18, and 19th

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THE HOMES: • Starting in the $420s • Tour our models: • 112 High Rock Pass (45-ft homesites) • 142 Tumbling Creek Run (60-ft homesites) THE COMMUNITY: • A master-planned community with greenbelt spaces, trails, playgrounds, pickleball courts, and a community pool. • Highly rated Hays County ISD schools. • Easy access to nearby shopping, dining, and major retailers including H-E-B Plus, Target, and Costco.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Business

BY: MICHAEL MILLION

Farmers markets across the Hays County area bring together local vendors, fresh food and community members in one place. For some residents, they can also serve as an accessible place to shop with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benets at select markets, according to the Texas Health and Human Services. When shopping at a participating farmers’ market, SNAP recipients can swipe their card at the main information booth and receive market currency to use on eligible items, according to Texas Farmers Markets. A guide to SNAP at farmers markets

SNAP eligible and non-eligible items Eligible items • Fruits, vegetables, garden seeds • Meat, ish, poultry • Bread, cereal • Plants that produce food • Milk, milk substitutes, dairy products Non-eligible items

• Tobacco • Alcohol • Non-food items • Vitamins • Medicines Items no longer eligible after April 1 • Candy bars, gum and taffy • Nuts, raisins or fruits that have been candied, crystallized, glazed or coated with chocolate, yogurt or caramel • Sweetened drinks

Shoppers who receive SNAP benets may be able to use them for eligible produce at select farmers markets.

COURTESY DOWNTOWN BUDA FARMERS MARKET SOURCE: BUDAFUL FARMERS MARKET, TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

The impact

Breaking it down

Hays County had 6,843 households utilize the program and 15,562 eligible individuals in January, according to the most recent data from the Texas Health and Human Services. The program is the second-most responsive federal program oering assistance to citizens during and after downturns in the economy, only after unemployment insurance, according to the CBPP.

SNAP is essential to providing nutritional support to working families with low-paying jobs, low-income adults 60 years and older and those with disabilities living on xed incomes, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, or CBPP. Texas had 1.6 million households utilize the SNAP program in September 2025, according to the most recent data from the Texas Health and Human Services. There were 3.5 million individ- uals who were eligible to receive benets in the same month.

SNAP eligibility limits Families are considered for SNAP based on household size and monthly income.

Family size $2,152

5 6 7 8

$5,177 $5,934 $6,690 $7,446

3 4 2

$2,909 $3,665 $4,421

To nd out which local markets accept SNAP, check out page 16

SOURCE: TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Business

Three Six General adds local avors to area markets and menus Three Six General in San Marcos is a bodega and butcher shop owned by Mattison Bills—a highly recognized Austin-area restaurateur. Through her shop, farmers market booths and restaurant ties, Bills connects Central Texans to locally sourced food one bite at a time. What’s special about it? The woman-owned and operated shop, established in September 2020, places a heavy emphasis on local sourcing and processing. Employees at the shop make sausages, butcher, cure and smoke meats in-house. Seven days a week, customers can nd hormone- and antibiotic-free beef, pork, lamb and chicken raised on Texas pastures, as well as Gulf seafood.

Three Six General oers a variety of locally sourced, hormone- and antibiotic-free meats.

PHOTOS COURTESY THREE SIX GENERAL

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY MICHAEL MILLION

The shop Dinsmore said in addition to meat and pro- duce, the shop has a full grocery section, noting that the team strives to oer everything a cus- tomer may need. Grocery products include toilet- ries, owers and sourdough delivered weekly to Three Six General from local producers. The markets At the farmers markets, Three Six General sells bacon, ham, smoked sausages, smoked chicken salad, pimento cheese, pickled vegetables and other fermented foods. The restaurants Bills is the co-founder of Mum Foods, an Aus- tin restaurant featured in the Michelin Guide’s “The Best Barbecue in Austin” list. In addition to Three Six General, she owns Howdy Child in San Antonio and opened Astra Restaurant & Bar in Buda in February. The owner Dinsmore said Bills has a back- ground in agriculture.“She wanted to work on a farm right out of school, so she did that. She has her roots very much in what we do.”

290 Where to nd Three Six General 1 Three Six General butcher shop 2 Budaful Farmers Market 3 New Braunfels Farmers Market 4 Mueller Farmers Market 5 Barton Creek Farmers Market 6 Bell Farmers Market

183

Leander

130 TOLL

45 TOLL

Austin

360

290

183

MOPAC

Three Six General owner Mattison Bills, bottom right, is pictured with the team outside the San Marcos spot.

Buda

San Marcos

Astra Restaurant & Bar oers a diverse menu built with locally sourced, seasonal ingredi- ents, features an on-site garden and sources ingredients from other urban farms. Menu items include artisan sandwiches, sourdough pizza, handmade pastas, seasonal vegetable dishes, burgers and craft cocktails. Bills’ Three Six General produces the cured meats for Astra Restaurant & Bar.

New Braunfels

1904 Old RR 12, Ste., 101, San Marcos www.threesixgeneral.com

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Hays CISD braces for cuts amid dwindling fund balance From the cover

By the numbers

Hays CISD budget history HCISD’s budget, revenue and expenditures have increased over the past ve years.

Hays CISD fund balance history TEA guidelines indicate the fund balance should stay around $67 million.

Revenue

Budgeted expenditures

The Texas Education Agency provides a basic allotment of $6,215 per student to public school districts. This is a $55 increase—provided by House Bill 2 in June—from the previous rate of $6,160, which was set in 2019. Basic allotment is calculated on attendance rather than enrollment, so HCISD budgets with a 93% attendance rate. Savoy said the state would need to provide approximately $7,000 per student to compensate for ination. While education state funding has maintained a similar rate, the U.S. dollar has less spending power. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ CPI Ination Calculator, $1 today has the same buying power as 77 cents in 2019. “We still have to buy the same goods and services that we always have … yet utility costs have gone up, fuel has gone up, everything,” Superintendent Eric Wright said. “Just like your own personal budget. The same holds true for the school district.” To maintain operations and services amid ination and rising costs, HCISD has been pulling from the fund balance since 2021, which has diminished to an estimated $20 million. This is roughly $47 million lower than suggested by the TEA, according to district documents. The board of trustees called for a tax ratication election in August to raise the property tax rate and increase district funding. While the proposed rate of

Ending fund balance

Expenditures

$71.75M

$240M $260M $280M $300M $320M $340M $360M

$60M $67M $80M

$40M

$20M

2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25

Fiscal year

To learn more, go to www.communityimpact.com .

SOURCE: HAYS CISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

*REPRESENTS AN ESTIMATED, UNAUDITED ENDING FUND BALANCE

$1.2746 per $100 valuation was a 12 cent increase, it remained below the scal year 2022-23 rate of $1.3423 per $100. The proposition ultimately failed at the polls in November, and the current tax rate is the same as scal year 2024-25. Looking ahead, the district intends to pass a surplus budget to start rebuilding the fund balance, which should be approximately $67 million to cover payroll and bills during months when the district is waiting for taxes and state

funding payments to come in. While Wright said that they cannot yet announce specic cuts, the district aims to absorb as many as possible through attrition and turnover—meaning vacant positions will likely not be replaced. Previously released documents indicated o¡cials would consider cutting sta¢, increasing class sizes, cutting special programming and increasing fees in order to create a surplus budget.

Breaking it down

Ongoing Hays CISD bond projects

I can tell you [a 2027 bond] will not be as high as the last

Percentage completed

In May, six months before rejecting a proposi- tion to raise the tax rate, voters passed the largest bond in the district’s history—at almost $1 billion. Savoy said he doesn’t think the TRE failure re ects the community’s support for public schools. While bonds provide funding for new facilities and materials, that money cannot be used to maintain and operate those facilities once they are open. Payment for teachers, sta and operational costs comes from the maintenance and operations portion of the tax rate and state funding. Brandon Nutting, HCISD Facilities and Bond Oversight Committee chair, said due to continued growth, the district anticipates presenting a bond package to voters every other year. By late April, the committee will begin reviewing demographic data and projects left o the 2025 package to prepare a 2027 bond package. “The number one issue is going to be Middle School No. 7,” Nutting said. On Jan. 26, district ocials approved a zoning

Lehman High School Auditorium • Timeline: August 2023-January 2026 • Funded: 2023 bond, $53.1 million Elementary School No. 18 design • Timeline: March-August 2026 • Funded: 2023 bond, $4.2 million Middle School No. 7 design • Timeline: November 2025-October 2026 • Funded: 2025 bond, $6 million Elementary school and middle school renovations and expansions • Timeline: August 2025-August 2027 • Funded: 2025 bond, $200.9 million Comprehensive High School No. 4 construction

100%

one. Nowhere near as high. BRANDON NUTTING, FACILITIES AND BOND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE CHAIR

10%

25%

map to address capacity issues at several cam- puses. However, Savoy said the long-term solution for overcrowding at McCormick Middle School would need to come in the form of a new facility. District-wide rezoning will likely begin in the fall of 2029, around when Comprehensive High School No. 4 will open. The 2025 bond provided funding for projects such as High School No. 4, elementary and middle school renovations and expansions, and the design for a new middle school.

25%

• Timeline: May 2026-May 2029 • Funded: 2025 bond, $396 million

To learn more, go to www.communityimpact.com

SOURCE: HAYS CISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SIENNA WIGHT

Measuring the impact

Looking ahead

Wright said that over the next ve years, he would like to continue eorts to keep up with growth and to provide more internship and externship opportunities for students— partnering with more local businesses to learn which soft skills are most valuable. “To me, the school should be a reection of the community,” Wright said.

Rapid growth in the area has also presented challenges for the district. According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Hays County grew from 157,000 in 2010 to 241,000 in 2020, then to an estimated 292,000 in 2024. Wright said that since he started in 2018, the area has added roughly 3,500 new homes and 600-1,000 students per year. If growth rates continue, he said the district will serve approxi- mately 80,000 students by 2067. “Trying to open up schools and take care of our growth with less money has been really, really challenging,” Wright said. As of 2023-24, the ratio of teachers to students is 1-15.5. This ratio may increase if teaching positions are lost to attrition or budget cuts in the coming months. Budget cuts will also make it dicult to oer competitive rates for teachers, something that ocials say they want to be able to do.

Hays CISD enrollment Superintendent Eric Wright said HCISD has enrolled an additional 600-1,000 every year since he started in 2018.

Number of students enrolled

26K

+17.26%

24K

Key dates

March 30 Budget cuts announced April Bond committee begins 2027 bond planning May 2 Hays CISD trustee election day

22K

20K

0 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26*

Academic year

SOURCE: HAYS CISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

*AS OF FEB. 17

SOURCE: HAYS CISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Events

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Wiener to take it all in Buda races April 25 26 Buda—the self-proclaimed “Wiener Dog Capital of Texas”—will live up to its nickname April 25-26 when the Buda Lions Club’s 29th annual Country Fair and Wiener Dog Races brings big crowds for little legs. The rain-or-shine tradition remains the club’s biggest philanthropic event, supporting local scholarships and youth eye care programs, along with help for veterans and other groups. A closer look The two-day event will oer a festival atmo- sphere where the main attraction is the chaotic charm of the world’s least aerodynamic athletes. The dogs don’t always sprint straight for the nish line—some stop to sni the track, lose interest mid-run or wander toward the crowd, Buda Lions Club organizers said.

29th annual Country Fair and Wiener Dog Races Saturday, April 25 • 9 a.m. Pet Parade • 10 a.m. Morning qualifying races • 11:30 a.m. Mixed-breed races • 2 p.m. Afternoon qualifying races • 3 p.m. Mixed-breed races Sunday, April 26 • 10 a.m. Qualifying races • 11:30 a.m. Mixed-breed races • 1:30 p.m. Mixed-breed inals • 3 p.m. Purebred championship rounds

Dogs race down the track during the Buda Lions Club’s Country Fair and Wiener Dog Races in Buda.

PHOTOS BY COURTESY BUDA LIONS CLUB

What else? Beyond the races, visitors can snack on classic fair food like funnel cakes, corn dogs and nachos while browsing arts and crafts vendors and listening to live music. The scent of an Interna- tional Barbeque Cookers Association-sanctioned barbecue cook-o will ll the air April 25, with categories including beans, chicken, pork spare ribs and brisket.

Buda City Park, 204 San Antonio St, Buda www.budalions.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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