Round Rock | Pflugerville | Hutto Edition - December 2020

ROUND ROCK PFLUGERVILLE HUTTO EDITION

VOLUME 16, ISSUE 4 DEC. 6, 2020JAN. 10, 2021

ONLINE AT

Hair salons, studios adapt businesses for COVID19

IMPACTS

BY KELSEY THOMPSON

During her 37 years in the hairstyling industry, Anna Gonzales said she only had to temporarily shut down services once—to give birth to her child. When the coronavirus pandemic hit in the spring, Gonzales—co-owner of The Stu- dio in Hutto—was forced to close her salon for eight weeks. The process was devastat- ing, she said. “I took it so hard because I was worried about my team and their income, their health,” Gonzales said. “We were like big mama birds to our young little sta, mak- ing sure they were taking [the coronavirus] seriously so that we could reopen.” Across industry sectors, the coronavirus CONTINUED ON 23

HOLIDAY TODO LIST

Hair stylist Kristin DeMotta said her personal relationships with clients are at the cornerstone of her work. (Kelsey Thompson/Community Impact Newspaper)

BOUTIQUE GUIDE

‘LivePD’will continue tocostWilliamson Countydespitenewsheribeingelected BY ALI LINAN

have been brought against Williamson County involving the Williamson County Sheri’s Oce including “Live PD” involvement. Of those, three charges have been settled totaling about As of Nov. 6, 20 LAWSUITS AND COMPLAINTS $303,9000 IN PAYOUTS.

“We’ll be paying Chody-[related] law- suits for years to come,” Precinct 1 Com- missioner Terry Cook said. “They’ve only just started to come out, and more are going to.” As of Nov. 6, the county has incurred 20 lawsuits and complaints concerning alle- gations against the Williamson County Sheri’s Oce, including Texas Commis- sion on Law Enforcement complaints, general issues within the WCSO and liti- gation surrounding “Live PD,” data shows. Of those, three charges have been settled through nancial means for a combined total of about $303,900; one has been

Williamson County will have a new sheri Jan. 1 after Robert Chody lost his re-election bid in November, but the ram- ications of Chody’s tenure, including an unauthorized contract with “Live PD,” will continue to cost the county and taxpayers money for years to come. Between Jan. 1 and Dec. 2, the county has paid out about $236,000 from its gen- eral budget in contract litigation fees. This accounts for at least 20% of all legal fees the county paid in 2020 so far, according to county auditor reports. But commis- sioners warn they anticipate more law- suits and thereforemore fees in the future.

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See Page 26 for a timeline of events.

SOURCE: WILLIAMSON COUNTY COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

CONTINUED ON 25

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ROUND ROCK - PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION • DECEMBER 2020

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THIS ISSUE

CONTENTS

HIGHLIGHTS FROMTHISMONTH

IMPACTS

Now Open, Coming Soon &more TODO LIST Local events and things to do

FROMAMY: This year has certainly been a season of adaption and resilience. In our front-page story, we feature several local businesses in the service industry that have found safer ways to serve customers. In many cases, these businesses have provided a small sense of normalcy to clients during a dicult time. We have experienced some changes on our team, too. Our editor for the past few years, Taylor Buchanan, moved with her family to the Waco area. We are thankful for everything she contributed to our team and her outstanding editorial coverage. We are pleased to announce that we have a talented, experienced new editor, Claire Ricke, who recently returned to the Austin area. We look forward to introducing her to the community! Amy Leonard Bryant, GENERALMANAGER

MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Amy Leonard Bryant, abryant@communityimpact.com EDITOR Claire Ricke REPORTER Kelsey Thompson

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jay Jones ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Chaney Barton METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Travis Baker MANAGING EDITOR Amy Denney ART PRODUCTIONMANAGER Haley Grace CORPORATE LEADERSHIP PUBLISHERS AND FOUNDERS John and Jennifer Garrett GROUP PUBLISHER Traci Rodriguez EXECUTIVE EDITOR Joe Warner CREATIVE DIRECTOR Derek Sullivan SALES DIRECTOR Tess Coverman WHOWE ARE John and Jennifer Garrett began Community Impact Newspaper in 2005 in Pugerville, Texas. The company’s mission is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Today we operate across ve metropolitan areas providing hyperlocal, nonpartisan news produced by our full-time journalists in each community we serve. BECOMEA#COMMUNITYPATRON

TRANSPORTATIONUPDATES 13 Pugerville voters greenlight bond CITY& COUNTY 17 The latest local news GUIDE 18 2020 Outdoor patio guide

FROMCLAIRE: As a seventh-generation Texan, I have a passion for covering local community news. I really enjoy tracking down the important information that every resident needs to know and sharing it in a useful way. I grew up in Central Texas. After starting my career in Austin as a digital producer and on-air reporter, I packed up my little dog and moved to Los Angeles to report on the Southern California market. I am so happy to be back near my hometown covering local news for the community that I love. Claire Ricke, EDITOR

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ROUND ROCK PFLUGERVILLE HUTTO EDITION • DECEMBER 2020

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Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

3 5

PALM VALLEY BLVD.

H-E-B

Round Rock Express

COURTESY H-E-B

COURTESY CITY OF ROUND ROCK

EXPANSIONS 9 H-E-B’s location at 16900 N. RM 620, Round Rock celebrated its grand reopening and expansion Nov. 19, showcasing 1,800 new store products and expanded departments. The changes include a health and wellness aisle, a larger cheese department, a seafood department, a butcher shop, a larger beer and wine section, a deli and a health department. Alongside its expanded product offerings, the store has upgraded its curbside pickup for customers to have their groceries brought to their vehicles. 512-238-7909. www.heb.com IN THE NEWS 10 Round Rock Express The Round Rock Express will soon have a new affili- ate after the Houston Astros announced the relocation of their AAA team after a 12-year partnership, Round Rock Express President Chris Almendarez confirmed in a Nov. 20 statement. CLOSINGS 11 Flix Brewhouse’s Round Rock loca- tion temporarily closed its doors a second time “until further notice” on Nov. 16. Located at 2200 S. I-35, Round Rock, the business cited ongoing concerns with the coronavirus, government enforcement and limited film content as cause for the closure. Alongside its theater closure, Flix Brewhouse also temporarily discontinued its to-go and restaurant services. “We hope some day to see you all again at the movies,” Flix Brewhouse’s announcement read. 512-244-3549. www.flixbrewhouse.com/round-rock

ladas, flautas, chimichangas and fajitas. Santiago’s Tex-Mex and Cantina also has a location at 16420 RM 620, Ste. 101, Round Rock. 512-382-0010. https://santiagostexmexandcantina.com COMING SOON 6 The city of Round Rock has issued a site development permit to Whataburger for a location at 17000 N. RM 620, Round Rock, according to city development records and signage posted at the site. Noted items from Whataburger’s menu include burgers, honey butter chicken biscuits, spicy chicken sandwiches, fries and shakes. https://whataburger.com/home RELOCATION 7 FlowBelow announced in a Nov. 2 news release it will relocate its headquar- ters and manufacturing operations from Austin to Round Rock after outgrowing its current facility. The company, started in 2009, began operations at 106 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Round Rock, on Dec. 1. The Texas-based aerodynamics company’s Round Rock site will host FlowBelow’s engineering team for its research and development initiatives, along with housing its raw materials and production resources. www.flowbelow.com 8 MasFajitas will relocate from its current location at 1700 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock, to a new location at 3050 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Round Rock, co-owner Mario Sorto confirmed in an email to Community Impact Newspaper . The new location is expected to open in January 2021, Sorto said. www.masfajitas.com

JOE DIMAGGIO BLVD.

620

45 TOLL

MOPAC

ROUND ROCK NOWOPEN

3 Victoria’s Secret opened Nov. 10 next to the Carter’s at the Round Rock Premium Outlets, located at 4401 N. I-35, Round Rock. Victoria’s Secret sells women’s clothing, intimates, accessories and beauty products. 512-831-3345. www.victoriassecret.com/us 4 Meal Proz Round Rock opened Oct. 4 at 3810 Gattis School Road, Ste. 106, Round Rock. The business specializes in healthy, premade meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The location offers pickup and delivery as well as nutritional consulting and meal plans. 512-638-5927. www.mealprozroundrock.com 5 Santiago’s Tex Mex & Cantina opened Nov. 29 at 4401 N. I-35, Ste. 2002, Round Rock at the Round Rock Premium Outlets. Its menu includes items such as enchi-

1 The Kenney Fort Pub opened Nov. 9 at 3001 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Ste. 1400, Round Rock. Alongside its full bar and craft beer selections, menu offerings include fish and chips, bangers and mash and weekend brunch. 361-268-1090. https://thekenneyfort.com 2 Rosewood Lash & Skincare opened Oct. 1 at 1106 S. Mays St., Ste. 115, Round Rock. Service offerings include lash lifts, tints and extensions, facials, brow waxing and threading. Appointments and masks

are required. 512-516-4068. www.rosewoodbeautytx.com

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ROUND ROCK - PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION • DECEMBER 2020

IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

Jr. first opened Rec’s Catering in 2005 before expanding his business through Rec’s Hushpuppie Heaven in 2013. Gour- met fillings include shrimp, jalapeño and bacon, brisket, enchiladas, and macaroni and cheese, among others. 512-382-1566. www.recscatering.com Frios Gourmet Pops launched its mobile food van in Pflugerville in late Octo- ber, owners Mike and Melissa Brown confirmed Nov. 16. The mobile business offers more than 60 flavors of gourmet popsicles and will travel throughout the Round Rock, Pflugerville and Hutto region. Vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options are available, as well as signature and seasonal flavors. Catering services for large and small parties and events are also available. 512-300-8292. www.friospops.com/locations/ pflugerville COMING SOON 4 The Springs Assisted Living & Memory Care at Pflugerville is expected to begin accepting patients in late 2020 or early 2021, said Jason Caraway of Careway Senior Living. Located at 1020 E. Wells Branch Parkway, Pflugerville, The Springs’ offerings include assisted-living suites with private bathrooms and kitch- enettes, along with memory care suites. www.carewayseniorliving.com 5 P. Terry’s Burger Stand is expected to open its Pflugerville location in January,

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45 TOLL

PFLUGERVILLE

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COURTESY P TERRY’S BURGER STAND

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company representatives confirmed in a Dec. 3 email. P. Terry’s, which will be located near Costco at the intersection of Kelly Lane and FM 685, is part of the Austin fast-food chain known for ham- burgers, fries, milkshakes and breakfast. www.pterrys.com ANNIVERSARIES 6 Pfluger-Rock School Of Music celebrated its 20th business anniversary Dec. 4, owner Todd Barth confirmed in an email. Located at 100 W. Pflugerville Parkway, Ste. 102, Pflugerville, the music school features 13 instructors and offers music lessons to area musicians for piano, guitar, drums, voice, violin and bass gui- tar. Lessons are currently being offered

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2 Primavera Dental Group opened Nov. 16 at 701 FM 685, Stes. 150-155, Pfluger- ville, staff said in an email. Primavera Dental Group specializes in full mouth re- habilitation, dental implant treatment as well as surgical, restorative and cosmetic work. 512-640-8175. www.primaveradentalgroup.com 3 Rec’s Hushpuppie Heaven celebrated the grand opening of its storefront Oct. 24 at 200 E. Pecan St., Ste. 1, Pfluger- ville. Chef and owner Kenneth Rector

1 KidStrong Pflugerville , a childhood development center specializing in phys- ical and personal growth, opened Nov. 14. Located at 21315 SH 130, Ste. 100, Pflugerville, the center’s classes focus on brain development, building indepen- dence and social skills. 512-596-4441. www.kidstrong.com/pflugerville

online. 512-989-2425. www.pfluger-rock.com

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5 Que Divino Food Truck began serving breakfast tacos and Mexican dishes at its Hutto-based food truck Nov. 3. Located at 408 Hwy. 79, Hutto, near Southside Market & Barbeque, offerings include migas, chorizo, and potato and egg combinations. Que Divino also operates a catering service. 214-400-3601. www.facebook.com/quedivinoatx 6 Rustic + Willow celebrated the grand opening of its location at 117 East St., Hutto, on Dec. 1. The shop specializes in home decor, T-shirts, candles and jew- elry, among other items. Owner Kristie Smith is also a photographer and will now operate her studio out of Hutto. www.facebook.com/rusticwillowtx 7 WhiteWater Express Car Wash opened at 300 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto on Nov. 13. WhiteWater Express offers four different wash packages, with each available in an unlimited monthly plan. 512-759-8066. www.whitewatercw.com COMING SOON 8 Dutch Bros Coffee has leased a space to open near Hwy. 79 and Chris Kelley Boulevard in Hutto, according to an October announcement from RESOLUT RE retail and commercial real estate bro- kerage firm. The business was founded in Grants Pass, Ore., and has more than 400 locations across nine states, company representative Rilynn Davis said in a Nov. 13 email. The drive-thru coffee shop’s

HUTTO NOWOPEN

EAST ST.

ED SCHMIDT RD.

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HUTTO

1 Tractor Supply Co. opened a location at 5880 Chandler Road, Hutto, in early September. The company offers farm and ranch supplies, livestock feed, pet sup- plies, tools and hardware, among other 2 Stockade Kitchen opened Nov. 10 at 210 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Ste. 100, Hutto. The fast-casual restaurant’s menu offer- ings include steak, chicken, burgers and salads, kids meals and desserts, and daily specials such as meatloaf, fried chicken, roast beef and carved turkey or ham. 512- 642-3978. www.stockadekitchen.com 3 Daylily Animal Hospital opened Nov. 9 at 1401 Chris Kelley Blvd., Hutto. The veterinary medical practice offers boarding services, exams and consulta- tions, vaccinations, surgeries and more. Open daily. 512-601-6121. www.daylilyvet.com products. 737-244-0031. www.tractorsupply.com 4 Julio’s Mexican Restaurant hosted the soft opening of its Hutto location in early October, in the old Rio Grande loca- tion. Located at 560 Hwy. 79, Ste. A100, Hutto, the restaurant’s menu offerings include quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas and combination plates. 512-425-0781. www.juliosmexican.com

CHANDLER RD.

685

ED SCHMIDT BLVD.

130 TOLL

1660

UVALDE DR.

ANNIVERSARIES 10 Hutto Flower Market celebrated its one-year anniversary Nov. 12 with a birthday celebration at its shop, located at 6020 FM 1660, Ste. D, Hutto. Hutto Flower Market is a florist and gift shop, with bouquets tailored to specific occa- sions, including anniversaries, birthdays, well wishes, holidays, sympathy and romance arrangements. 512-846-4151. www.huttoflowermarket.com

menu offers cold brews, Americanos, specialty espresso drinks, teas, smoothies and pastries. An anticipated opening date has not yet been announced. www.dutchbros.com 9 Hutto Liquor will open a location near FM 685 and Uvalde Drive, Hutto, as announced in a RESOLUT RE deals email. Coming soon signage has been placed at Hutto Plaza, located at 525 Chris Kelley Blvd., Hutto. An opening date timeline has not yet been announced.

ROUND ROCK - PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION • DECEMBER 2020

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HOLIDAY TODO LIST

December-January events

COMPILED BY KELSEY THOMPSON

DEC. 12

KICKOFF THE HOLIDAYS INHUTTO BRUSHY CREEK AMPHITHEATER

DEC. 12

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY SEASON HUTTO

DEC. 15

SHOP LOCAL THISWINTER PFLUGERVILLE RECREATION CENTER

Ring in the festivities this season with Holidays in Hutto. Socially-distanced activities include a livestream of the annual Christmas tree lighting, sledding, train rides, photos with Santa and live performances. Tickets start at $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 12 and younger. Event begins at 5 p.m. Brushy Creek Amphitheater, 1001 CR 137, Hutto. www.facebook.com/brushycreekamp/events

Pugerville’s virtual “Afternoon with Santa Storytime & Fun” event. Santa Claus and Joshua the Elf will join participants for an afternoon of storytelling, songs and games. Free. Guests can register to receive a goody bag. The video will premiere on the Pugerville Public Library’s YouTube and Facebook pages at 2:30 p.m. Ages 3-8. www.pugervilletx.gov/for-visitors/event-calendar 18 PAINT A PERSONALIZEDHOLIDAY GIFT Dream of a white Christmas this year with the Pugerville Public Library’s senior craft hour featuring watercolor creations of a wintry scene. Registration opened Dec. 3 and runs through Dec. 10, and kits will be available for pickup by registrants Dec. 11-18 during the library’s curbside pickup hours. Free. Age 55 and older. For pickup: Pugerville Public Library, 1008 W. Puger St., Pugerville. 512-990-6381. www.pugervilletx.gov/for-visitors/event-calendar 22 RING IN THE HOLIDAYSWITHA FESTIVE FILMSCREENING Get into the festive spirit with Blue Starlite’s screening of “Home Alone.” The movie stars Macaulay Culkin, who is accidentally left at home by his family as they leave for a vacation. Car slot tickets begin at $27. 7:30 p.m. show, gates open at 6:35 p.m. 800 Harrell Parkway Blvd., Round Rock. 512-850-6127. www.tickettailor.com/ events/bluestarlitedriveinroundrock While things might be dierent this year, celebrate the spirit of the season with Hutto’s annual downtown Christmas fair. Craft vendors will bring their homemade artisan goods for visitors to purchase. Social distancing, hand sanitation and mask wearing will be required as part of the event. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. East Street and Farley Street, Hutto. www.facebook.com/downtownhutto/events

Each year the Pugerville Pfarmers Market puts on a festive event in honor of the holiday season. This year’s market will feature locally harvested and prepared products. Social distancing measures will be enforced, and all guests must wear a mask. Free admission. 3-7 p.m. Pugerville Recreation Center gym, 400 Immanuel Road, Pugerville. www.pugervilletx.gov/for-visitors/event-calendar

DECEMBER THROUGH DEC. 24 PLANAVISITWITH SANTA

Santa Claus is coming to town and bringing Santa’s Wonderland to the Bass Pro Shops in the Round Rock Premium Outlets. The event features a contact-free visit with Santa Claus. Temperature screenings, face coverings, sanitation procedures and social distancing measures will be upheld. Free, registration required. 200 Bass Pro Drive, Round Rock. 512-876-2700. www.basspro.com/shop/en/santas-wonderland 06 AND 23 ENJOY AN “ELF” SCREENING Kick o the holiday season with a family-friendly viewing of the modern Christmas classic movie “Elf.” Moviegoers are asked to remain in their cars to adhere to social distancing protocols, and masks are required when windows are rolled down. Car slot admission begins at $27. 7 p.m. show, gates open at 6 p.m. (Dec. 6); 7:30 p.m. show, gates open at 6:35 p.m. (Dec. 23). Blue Starlite Round Rock, 800 Harrell Parkway Blvd., Round Rock. 512-850-6127. www.tickettailor.com/events/ bluestarlitedriveinroundrock 13 ENJOY AMEET AND GREETWITH SANTA Make your list and have Santa check it twice with the

WORTH THE TRIP DRIVETHRU TRAIL OF LIGHTS NOV. 29JAN. 3

Austin’s holiday light display is a drive-thru event for 2020, with more than 2 million holiday lights, 90 decorated trees and 70 other displays. $25-$35 per vehicle (general admission), other packages available. Event begins at 7 p.m. Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road, Austin. www.austintrailoights.org

Find more or submit Round Rock, Pugerville and Hutto events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.

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ROUND ROCK PFLUGERVILLE HUTTO EDITION • DECEMBER 2020

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1 University Boulevard widening from I-35 to Sunrise Road The project will reconstruct University Boulevard between I-35 and Sunrise Road, resulting in a six-lane, median-di- vided road. Dual turn lanes will be added at the intersection of Oakmont Drive and University Oaks Boulevard. Construction began the week of Nov. 8, but major lane closures will not be implemented by the contractor until after the holiday season. Timeline: fall 2020-TBD Cost: $12 million Funding sources: city of Round Rock Type B funding, Williamson County 2 RM 620 improvements The project will improve the road from Deep Wood Drive to I-35 and will add frontage road lanes. Other elements include constructing a bridge over the railroad crossing at Chisholm Trail Road and adding a roundabout below. Access roads to businesses and residences in the area will also be built. A second bridge will be constructed to carry RM 620 trac over Lake Creek Drive. The project is in Phase 1 construction, which includes drainage work and utility relocation. Timeline: spring 2020-2022 Cost: $27.4 million Funding sources : city of Round Rock, Texas Department of Transportation, Williamson County 3 Logan Street extension As part of the city of Round Rock’s $240 million, ve-year transportation initiative, crews will extend Logan Street from Greenlawn Boulevard to A.W. Grimes Boulevard. The project will be a two-lane extension that includes a bridge over Dry Branch Tributary 1, added sidewalks to both sides of Logan and the connection of Heritage Springs Trail to Logan, among other features. Construction is ongoing;

ROUND ROCK

UNIVERSITY OAKS

OAKMONT DR.

JOE DIMAGGIO BLVD.

KENNEY FORT BLVD.

LOGAN ST.

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FOREST CREEK DR.

GREENLAWN BLVD.

LAKE CREEK DR.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

5 SH 130 widening Crews are adding a third main lane to SH 130 in both directions between SH 45 N and Hwy. 290 East. Toll gantry upgrade work continues, and concrete paving is nearing completion. Crews are preparing to place a concrete bridge deck at

crews have placed columns, and bridge work is continuing. Timeline: summer 2020-early to mid- 2021 Cost: $2 million Funding source: city of Round Rock Type B funds 4 Kenney Fort Boulevard extension The three-phase project will expand the roadway from Old Settlers Boulevard to Joe DiMaggio Boulevard as a six-lane divided section. Construction on Section 4B is ongoing between Old Settlers and the Meritage Development. The remain- der of work between Old Settlers and Joe DiMaggio will be addressed as a separate project. Timeline: TBD Cost: $3.5 million Funding sources: city of Round Rock Type B funds, Meritage Homes

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Cameron Road in the near future, and both decks have been poured at the Wilbarger Creek and Pugerville Parkway bridges. Timeline: fall 2018-early 2021 Cost: $36.7 million Funding source: Central Texas Turnpike System N

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Pugerville voters greenlight $101.7Mtransportation bond

The city of Pugerville is taking the next steps to begin some major infrastructure improvements follow- ing voter approval Nov. 3 of a $101.7 million transportation bond package. City ocials will issue requests for qualications for a general engineer- ing consultant to oversee the bond program. The consultant will help city ocials keep the bond projects on schedule and on budget. After the city hires a consulting rm, design rms for each project will then be selected. Designs for Central Commerce Drive and Picadilly Drive are in their nal design phases, with

construction expected to begin in 2021. During the Nov. 3 election, 68.19% of voters were in favor of the trans- portation bond package. Of votes cast, 17,958 ballots received approved the enhancements, while 8,376 votes were cast against. The package included $15.1 million for intersection improvements; $20.3 million for neighborhood streets reconstruction, including work for roadways in the Historic Colored Addition; and major roadway improvements for $66.3 million.

The package includes reconstruction work on neighborhood streets like Taylor Avenue and Caldwells Lane, parts of the Historic Colored Addition.

$101.7 MILLION: total size of Pugerville’s transportation bond package approved by voters in November

ROUND ROCK PFLUGERVILLE HUTTO EDITION • DECEMBER 2020

ENVIRONMENT

WILLIAMSON COUNTY 34

Booming BUSINESS Williamson County has the most aggregate production operations among Texas counties, with 34. Here is where other Central Texas counties stand.

Locals push for reform in rock mining industry

Aggregate production operation

BELL COUNTY 12

BY ALI LINAN

BURNET COUNTY 17

Williamson County is home to the most rock mining operations in Texas, which has led community members to seek stronger regula- tions as the negative impacts of the industry move closer to home. The county has 34 such opera- tions, according to Texas Commis- sion on Environmental Quality data, and these operations are continuing to grow at a rapid rate across the state. From 2015-20, the estimated number of registered quarries and other aggre- gate production facilities operating in Texas jumped from about 50 to more than 1,000, many of which are located in Central Texas, according to Texas for Responsible Aggregate Mining data. “This has all just exploded in the last couple of years. It’s unbelievable how fast this [industry] is running,” TRAM spokesperson Fermin Ortiz said. “But we’ve got to gure out a way to make it better and more responsible because we’re not going to stop it.” As Williamson County continues to be one of the highest-growth counties in Texas and home to a few of the most rapidly growing cities in the state, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the aggregate production operations, or APOs, supply needed construction materials as well as jobs, Ortiz said. He added that APOs being located near major growth sectors also makes the most business sense, as suppliers need to be near buyers in order to reduce costs. But the issue does not lie with their existence, Ortiz said. Instead, it is the damage the industry could cause if it remains deregulated. The APOs, often referred to as a quarry, use high amounts of water at about 50 gallons of water per ton of aggregate mined, according to TRAM data. A small mine can produce a couple thousand tons a day, Ortiz said, adding that he would like a commit- ment by quarries to use recycled water for this reason. Heavy truck loads also tear up roadways, which are repaired at the taxpayers’ expense, and the constant

MILAM COUNTY 4

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TRAVIS COUNTY 9

LEE COUNTY 0

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noise and odor as well as destruction of natural habitats can be a detriment to quality of life, Ortiz said. “There are good ways to do good business; you don’t have to take the shortcuts and take the quick prots,” Ortiz said. “If you want to stay in business long term, you want to be a good neighbor, [and] you want to do it right.” Ortiz, through TRAM, is working to reduce the negative impacts of quar- ries through regulations and legislative measures. He said he feels it is Texans’ responsibility to hold large mining businesses accountable, particularly those who are interested in making as much money as possible regardless of the negative health and trac impacts it may cause. “This is a nonpartisan issue. This is about what we leave to our great-grandchildren and children going through generations,” he said. “The regulations that we do or don’t have today are going to negatively impact the future, and it’s our responsibility to all join together to push back and have some sensible regulations to slow down the greedy [operators].” Booming business Rock mining operations in Texas were deregulated in 2005 to allow for an increase in needed infrastructure and to create jobs, state Rep. Terry Wilson, RGeorgetown, said. Since then, it has grown into a $2.4 billion industry, according to TRAM data.

BASTROP COUNTY 6

By deregu- lating, required permits through the TCEQ, the Army

SOURCE: TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

Corps of Engineers and Texas Parks and Wildlife,

among others, were easier to obtain. From 2009-19, 1,220 air-quality permit applications in Texas were submitted to the TCEQ, of which 1,143 were approved, ve were denied and 72 were withdrawn, according to TRAM data. Texas is one of only seven states without a comprehensive mining regulation. This is what Wilson, who represents parts of Williamson, Burnet and Milam counties, would like to x. “It’s our responsibility to realize the signicant change in the number of these quarries since 2005, and we need to adjust accordingly,” Wilson said. Wilson said he intends to bring up several legislative measures on quarry regulations in the 87th Texas legisla- tive session, which begins in January. One of the key initiatives he is in favor of is only awarding state contracts to companies in good standing. “It’s just not about who can give

us the cheapest bid; it’s about who can provide us a fair bid with a past performance of high quality,” Wilson said. “And the past performance is the key there.” Wilson, Ortiz and others recognize that it is not all APOs that operate as bad actors; in fact many do abide by self-imposed health and safety regulations, and that is something Jill Shackelford is working toward. Shackelford, a former Central Texas quarry owner and operator who now consults nationally, said she believes it is the responsibility of the quarry owners to not only communicate but over-communicate with the commu- nity around them by notifying them of blasting or changes and acting as a good neighbor would. “It’s an important responsibility for quarry operators to respect their community and their neighbor,” Shack- elford said.

COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

ECONOMY

DISTRIBUTING COVID-19 FUNDS

Williamson County received $93 million in federal coronavirus relief aid. Here is how it has been distributed as of Oct. 26.

Williamson County continues to distribute COVID-19 relief funds

Unallotted: $17 million

Small business grants: $35 million

BY ALI LINAN

to emergency service districts, to which $500,000 is allocated; $1 million for community rent and utility assistance, to which $4 million is allocated; and a pending $1.5 million to schools, to which $12 million is allocated, he added. Heselmeyer said he believes an extension is pending, but as of Oct. 30, any unspent money by the current Dec. 30 deadline will need to be returned to the federal government. “We want to do everything we can to help our citizens, our constituents, with these COVID-related expenses,” Heselmeyer said. “[We want to] make sure that their cities are taken care of, make sure that their schools are taken care of ... and utilize this money to the maximum extent.” While there are some parameters for how the money can be distributed, counties and cities are autonomous in deciding howmuch, when, how and to whom the money goes. Travis County received $61 million in CARES Act funding, which it allocated toward small-cities relief for entities located outside of Austin and toward rental and mortgage assistance for low-income residents. Harris County, with $426.6 million in funds, started court eviction and child care assistance programs, among other efforts. “It may be federal government tax- payer dollars, but that’s still taxpayer dollars,” Heselmeyer said. “We are still placing the same priorities on being responsible—we spend that money as we would if it was property tax money collected locally.”

Williamson County continues to move forward with the distribution of its federal coronavirus relief aid, recently adding schools to the list of programs supported by this funding. In April, the county received $93 million in federal aid to support those financially impacted by the pandemic. Since then, it has distributed money to small businesses, cities, emergency service districts and nonprofits. Now, the county is set to help offset the pandemic costs for area public, private and charter schools. “I dare to say that any county in America has accomplished what we’ve accomplished in the last six months,” Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell said during an October meeting. “We have done an amazing job through a global pandemic to help our county not only stand up but to run forward.” The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, or CARES Act, was a $2 trillion stimulus bill passed in March with the intent of financially helping people and entities devastated by the coronavirus pandemic. Williamson County was an early adopter of ramping up distribution points, starting with small businesses in May. The program, which funneled money to local businesses with fewer than 100 full-time employees, was allotted the largest portion of the total, at $35 million, Williamson County Treasurer Scott Heselmeyer said. The county has also distributed about $500,000 to cities, to which $8 million is currently allocated; $85,000

School reimbursements: $12 million

$93MILLION TOTAL

County internal expenses: $11.55 million

Bluebonnet Trails: $500,000

Cities: $8 million

Emergency service districts: $500,000

Reserve: $3 million

Community assistance program: $4 million

YMCA: $750,000

Health district: $1 million

SOURCE: WILLIAMSON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

COUNTY TO COUNTY Here is how other counties have distributed coronavirus relief funding. Program listings are not comprehensive.

Travis County Amount awarded: $61 million Programs: small-cities relief for those located outside of Austin, rental and mortgage assistance program for low- income residents Williamson County Amount awarded: $93 million Programs: small-business assistance, cities and emergency service district assistance, school district assistance City of Austin Amount awarded: $170.8 million Programs: Commercial Loans for Economic Assistance and Recovery Fund, Childcare Support Fund, Austin Nonprofit and Civic Health Organizations Relief Funds

Collin County Amount awarded: $171 million Programs: small-business grant program, family and individual assistance, COVID-19 testing for the uninsured Dallas County Amount awarded: $240 million Programs: emergency business assistance, emergency child care assistance, emergency housing, food pantry assistance Harris County Amount awarded: $426.6 million Programs: small-business loan program, court eviction services, rental assistance program, child care assistance program Hays County Amount awarded: $4.83 million Programs: Small business assistance program

SOURCES: CITY OF AUSTIN, COLLIN COUNTY, DALLAS COUNTY, HARRIS COUNTY, HAYS COUNTY, TRAVIS COUNTY, WILLIAMSON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER

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ROUND ROCK - PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION • DECEMBER 2020

EDUCATION BRIEFS

News from Round Rock, Pugerville & Hutto ISDs

Pugerville ISD approves changes to academic calendar

RoundRock ISDnames acting superintendent

BY KELSEY THOMPSON ROUND ROCK ISD The board of trustees named Daniel Pres- ley as the acting superintendent of schools, according to a Nov. 30 RRISD news release. The appointment comes following Steve Flores’ Nov. 13 resignation as RRISD superintendent.

“This year has presented the most challenging circumstances for public education in our lifetime, and I am committed to providing steady leadership during this transition,” Presley said in the release. Presley brings more than 30 years of experience in schools throughout Texas and

Louisiana.

Previously, Presley served as RRISD’s senior chief of

BY KELSEY THOMPSON

schools and innovation,

Daniel Presley

PFLUGERVILLE ISD The board of trustees voted Nov. 5 to approve four adjustments to the 2020-21 academic year calendar. Chief Academic and Innovation Ocer Brandy Baker said the changes will provide additional planning time for teachers. During planning days, teachers will develop instructional materials, host parent-teacher confer- ences and analyze student work. The changes result decrease instruction by 1,305 minutes for the spring semester. Jan. 4 will switch from a professional learning day to a planning day with no decrease in instructional minutes. Other changes include a transition from an instructional day to a planning day, where students will not attend classes. The changes decrease instructional minutes by 435 minutes on Feb. 12, March 12 and April 5. “We expect that teachers will feel less stressed and will have time to attend to eective instruc- tional planning,” Baker said.

which oversees superinten- dents, health, ne arts and athletics.

TEA allows school closures for COVID19 concerns

BY DANICA LLOYD

TEXAS Schools statewide now have the power to temporarily suspend on-campus instruction if a signicant number of the sta is impacted due to a COVID-19 outbreak, according to new guidelines released Nov. 19 by the Texas Education Agency. Under the TEA guidelines, schools can oer exclusively remote instruction for up to 14 days if too many educators are aected by COVID-19 to sta the school. “A 14-day period would allow for enough time

RRISD closed Stony Point High School Nov. 1630.

for the virus incubation period to be completed,” TEA ocials stated. Schools can also instate a hybrid instructional model, as needed.

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