San Marcos - Buda - Kyle Edition | May 2025

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San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1 MAY 22JUNE 23, 2025

2025 Private School Guide

Federal funds fuel ood recovery 10 years later, San Marcos continues $58M mitigation eorts

BY JAMIE MOORE A decade after two historic Hays County oods, memories are vivid as recovery continues. Mark Gleason, a Blanco Gardens resident and former San Marcos council member, recalls standing outside his home during the rst ood as waters receded, surrounded by eerie silence. There was no highway noise, no electricity, no neighbors—only the sound of rushing water. Virginia Parker, then Martindale resident and now executive director of the San Marcos River Foundation, remembers that same haunting sound from her own experience of the ood. "Just such an overwhelming sight to see the river that full and raging—it’s a sound that unless you’ve heard it, you can’t picture it,” Parker said.

136

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CONTINUED ON 28

BLANCO RIVER

The roar of the river and that was it… I’ll never forget the roar of the river. You could almost feel it under your feet. It was so powerful. MARK GLEASON, BLANCO GARDENS RESIDENT AND FORMER SAN MARCOS CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

The Blanco River low-water crossing was among the areas inundated by the 2015 Memorial Day ood. COURTESY CITY OF SAN MARCOS

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

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SERVICE TIMES: Worship: Sunday 10 am Bible Class: Sunday 9 am Wed 7 pm

Welcoming our new minister Adam Comeaux

3740 FM 967 | Buda, TX 78610 | 512-312-5900 | Christians@SouthernHillsCOC.org Services are ASL interpreted for the deaf & also translated to Spanish. Please come visit our loving, growing and active church family in the Buda-Kyle/South Austin area. | WE LOVE BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED US. 1 JOHN 4:19 We are the perfect place for imperfect people.

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Impacts

San Marcos

5 2nd Chance Books 2nd Chance Books is donation-based, and people can drop off books in the store or at a donation bin within The Village at Park South business center. • Opened April 16 • 102 Wonder World Drive, Ste. 305, San Marcos • www.2ndchancebooks.com/san-marcos 6 Blanco River Eyecare The new primary care optometry practice, owned by Dr. Lauren Meinke, offers a range of eye care services, including exams, contact lens fittings and treatments

San Marcos

W. SESSOM DR.

1984

WONDER WORLD DR.

N. EDWARD GARY ST.

for eye conditions. • Opened April 17

MARTIN LUTHER KING DR.

SAN MARCOS RIVER

• 1015 Hwy. 80, Ste. A, San Marcos • Facebook: Blanco River Eyecare

S. LBJ DR.

123

7 Surfing Crab The new seafood restaurant specializes in Cajun-style seafood boils. • Opened April 9 • 1285 I-35 frontage road, San Marcos • www.surfingcrabtx.com 8 Bird Dog The new eatery serving hot dogs and chicken tenders officially opened its doors under the ownership of locals Michael DelaCruz and Justin Pearson. The restaurant focuses on made-to-order comfort food. • Opened April 2 • 1701 I-35 frontage road, San Marcos • Facebook: Bird Dog 9 JD Sports The store offers a wide selection of athletic footwear, apparel and accessories. • Opened in April • 3939 I-35 S. frontage road, Ste. 301A, San Marcos • www.jdsports.com 10 Rodd & Gunn The New Zealand menswear brand opened its first Texas outlet at San Marcos Premium Outlets. The store offers tailored shirts, knitwear, polos, Italian leather shoes and bespoke accessories.

RATTLER RD.

I-35 N. FRONTAGE RD. 11

MAP NOT TO SCALE

3 Jax Bros Sandwich Shop From the creators of Jax Burgers Fries & Shakes, the new shop is located next to Galaxy Bicycles and serves sandwiches, salads, coffees and desserts. Jax Bros is owned by John Recio and the restaurant’s name is a combination of his sons’ names, Jake and Max. • Opened in March • 500 S. Guadalupe St., San Marcos • www.jaxbros.com 4 Howdy Boba Originally from Buda, the truck serves milk and fruit teas, and San Marcos-themed Mermaid Lemonade. • Opened April 4 • 801 Chestnut St., San Marcos • Instagram: howdyboba

Now open

1 Austin Maternal-Fetal Medicine The clinic offers specialized care for high-risk pregnancies. • Opened in February • 301 N. Guadalupe St., Ste. 144, San Marcos • www.namfm.com 2 Icon by Kings Korner The barbershop’s second location offers a wide range of services, including fades, trims, beard grooming, kids’ cuts and eyebrow shaping. • Opened March 23 • 306 N. Edward Gary St., Ste. C, San Marcos • Instagram: iconkingskorner

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SARAH HERNANDEZ & JAMIE MOORE

• Opened in April • 3939 I-35 S. frontage road, Ste. 945, San Marcos • www.roddandgunn.com/us

Wheat and Fat Bat Hazy IPA. • Opening in late May or early June • 110 E. MLK Drive, Ste. 130, San Marcos • www.thirstygoat.com

In the news

Coming soon

Closings

11 El Pollo Rico The Mexican restaurant chain specializing in charcoal- grilled chicken and carne asada will open a second San

14 Taiwan Bowl The restaurant has permanently closed. A sign posted on the door indicates that a new establishment, One to Fi Café, will open in its place. The café is currently preparing for its debut, though an official opening date has not been announced. • Closed in May • 804 Chestnut St., San Marcos 15 Alchemy Records The record store’s owner, Walter Thorington, announced the closure on social media. Customers can still find some inventory down the street at Old Soul Exchange. • Closed April 26

Marcos location. • Opening in May • 5403 S. I-35 frontage road, San Marcos • www.pollosricos.com

12 Just A Closet The new storage facility will offer various storage options, including climate-controlled and non-climate-

16 Classic Tattoo The downtown San Marcos tattoo shop has kept its doors open on LBJ Drive for more than two decades, with owner Morgan Egan still at the helm. Egan bought and took over the shop in 2005 while studying art at Texas State University. • 237 N. LBJ Drive, San Marcos • www.classictattootx.com

controlled units. • Opening in fall • 4508 Hwy. 123, San Marcos • www.justacloset.com

• 145 S. LBJ Drive, San Marcos • Instagram: alchemyrecordshop

13 Thirsty Planet Brewery Founded by Brian Smittle in 2010, the brewery is moving its production facility and tasting room to downtown San Marcos. Thirsty Planet’s beers include Thirsty Goat Amber, Buckethead IPA, Yellow Armadillo

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Impacts

Buda & Kyle

• 3225 FM 2001, Ste. 107, Buda • www.onehourheatandair.com/kyle

5 6 7

45 TOLL

Coming soon

967

4 Burchfield Educational Theatre Founded by longtime Buda residents Angela and Tim Burchfield, the theater will offer a blend of artistic talent, community involvement and programs designed to empower children through theater. • Opens June 2 • 2581 South Loop 4, Ste. 400, Buda • www.burchfieldtheatre.com 5 Amici Cucina Italiana The award-winning, third-generation family-owned Italian restaurant from Little Italy will open its second location within the upcoming Roundabout in Buda.

FIRE CRACKER DR.

Buda

1626

2001

OLD GOFORTH RD.

PLUM CREEK MEADOWS.

KOHLERS CROSSING

WINDY HILL RD.

2001

• Opening in 2026 • 1141 FM 967, Buda • www.roundaboutinbuda.com

I-35 FRONTAGE RD

150

6 La Ola Pop Shop The third-generation family-owned business is known for its handcrafted Mexican paletas and helados made from fresh, natural ingredients.

W. CENTER ST.

BLANCO RIVER

• Opening in 2026 • 1141 FM 967, Buda • www.roundaboutinbuda.com

Kyle

MAP NOT TO SCALE

S. MAIN ST.

150

7 Mercantile at Home Led by Kate Traver, the founder of The Mercantile at Mill + Grain, the new shop will feature artwork, tables, seating and other unique pieces.

150

modern units, ranging from 1-bedroom apartments to 3-bedroom townhomes, with rents starting at $1,340. • Opened in March • 1431 Fire Cracker Drive, Buda • www.junewoodbuda.com 3 One Hour Heating and Air of Kyle The national provider is now offering heating, ventilation and air conditioning maintenance and installation services in the Hays County area. Owned by local veteran Aaron Mudry, the service provider offers a discount for veterans, first responders and teachers. • Opened March 17

Now open

• Opening in 2026 • 1141 FM 967, Buda • www.roundaboutinbuda.com

1 Texas MedClinic Urgent Care Texas MedClinic offers injury and illness care services, diagnostic lab tests and x-rays, drug testing and more. The clinic also performs sports physicals. • Opened April 1 • 19055 S. I-35 frontage road, Kyle • www.texasmedclinic.com/location/kyle 2 Junewood Apartments Buda’s new luxury apartment community features 259

What’s next

8 Brakes Plus Brakes Plus will begin construction on a new 4,900-square-foot service facility, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SARAH HERNANDEZ & JAMIE MOORE

• 4580 FM 1626, Kyle • www.brakesplus.com

Now open

9 O’Reilly Auto Parts A third O’Reilly Auto Parts store is planned to open in Buda, according to a filing with TDLR. • Old Goforth Road, Buda • www.oreillyauto.com

In the news

10 Sovereign Flavors Sovereign Flavors is expanding with a Research & Development lab in Kyle, designed to enhance customized flavors for clients. Led by Senior Certified Flavorist Lauren Muhlberger, the lab will focus on innovations like spray- dried flavors and custom taste modifications. • 341 Plum Creek Meadows, Kyle • www.sovereignflavors.com 11 Main Street Nutrition Formerly Soulful Nutrition, the club has reopened under an updated name. New owner Jennie West said the team offers healthy shakes, energy teas and protein acai bowls. • Opened April 19225 S. Main St., Ste. 103, Kyle • Facebook: Main Street Nutrition TX

12 Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken & Wings The Nashville-style hot chicken restaurant is now open across from Texican Cafe. Hangry Joe’s serves chicken wings, wraps and more. Hot chicken sandwiches come in varying spice levels: no seasoning, mild, medium, hot and Angry Hot. • Opened April 22 • 920 Kohlers Crossing, Ste. 500, Kyle • www.hangryjoes.com

13 Jimmy John’s Jimmy John’s offers a variety of made-to-order subs, including customizable options, combo meals and catering platters for groups of all sizes. • Opened May 1 • 5200 FM 1626, Unit 110, Kyle • www.jimmyjohns.com

NOW OPEN 220 Opportunity BIvd, #2A San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 451-0103

EXCITING NEWS! Groundbreaking retinal research is coming to your area! Be part of the next wave in eye care with innovative treatments for retinal health. If you are interested in learning more about retinal research, ask your retina specialist for details at your next appointment.

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

sun the @ fun

page to check out our Resident Events! Visit our Facebook

New Lakeside Lazy River Amenity Center Opening Soon!

Just 15 minutes south of downtown Austin, Sunfield offers endless ways to have fun in your own backyard! Enjoy the miles of hike and bike trails , catch and release ponds , the dog parks or our two spectacular Amenity Centers including Swimming Pools , a Lazy River and plenty of shade!

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Business

BY JAMIE MOORE

The store is lled with antiques and plants.

JAMIE MOORECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Daughter of the Wild is owned by Nikkye Vargas.

JAMIE MOORECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Daughter of the Wild brings creativity, community In a changing downtown, Daughter of the Wild stands as a reminder of San Marcos’ creative, community-driven spirit.

“It was a part of his vision too; he’d always been like, ‘Oh, I just see you having a shop downtown that’s kind of like a museum,’” Vargas said. What’s special about it? Vargas says the store is somewhere where peo- ple can come into the space, let down their guard and tap into their inner creation. “I know that a lot of people who come through San Marcos don’t necessarily live here, but they’re experiencing a very special, magical place that is my home, and I want to ... give them something tangible to recall when they think about San Marcos,” Vargas said.

Bubbles greet guests outside the storefront.

JAMIE MOORECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Owner Nikkye Vargas has created what she calls an “I Spy” store—lled with handmade jewelry, vintage items, antiques, plants, and natural materials—all curated to reect her commitment to sustainable business. The backstory It was the loss of her father in 2015 that truly shifted her focus, according to Vargas. In the midst of grief, Vargas felt a deep urge to honor his memory by embracing her artistic side, a move that led her to open her rst brick-and-mortar location in 2016, just across from the HEB on West Hopkins Street.

218 N. Guadalupe St., San Marcos www.daughterofthewild.com

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Government

Buda council talks bonds amid state bill threat With a proposed state law threatening to limit local borrowing, the Buda City Council on May 6 reviewed the city’s debt portfolio and the time- line for spending voter-approved bond funds, discussing the possibility of accelerating bond sales in the future. The overview Buda’s current funding portfolio includes remaining funds from its 2021 general obligation bonds, along with planned funding for capital improvement projects. In November 2021, voters approved two bond propositions totaling $89.66 million for citywide upgrades, including road reconstruction, trail expansion and park improvements. Digging deeper HB 19, would cap cities’ annual debt payments

2 bills could impact Hays’ water use if OK’d Two bills in the Texas Legislature can impact groundwater resources in Hays County, with one bill providing more parameters for groundwater use and another decreasing regulation. The overview Senate Bill 2660, introduced by Sen. Charles Perry, RLubbock, would grant the Hays Trinity Groundwater Conservation District, or HTGCD, the authority to charge fees to water suppliers and nonexempt users based on how much groundwater they withdraw. House Bill 2812, introduced by Republican Rep. Carrie Isaac, who represents parts of Hays and Comal counties, would exempt public water supply wells from regulation, permitting and metering by the HTGCD.

“I really hope that the doomsday scenario that I’m thinking of doesn’t come to fruition, but I do think that it should energize us somewhat to do what we can through our

channels and our means to oppose the measure.” MATT SMITH, BUDA CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

at 20% of their average property tax revenue from the past three years. For Buda, that cap would restrict borrowing to about $27 million—preventing the city from issuing the remaining $38.5 million in bonds. If passed, the bill could delay or halt several projects until Buda’s tax base grows. To avoid restrictions under HB 19, the city would need to issue the remaining bonds before Sept. 1, according to Ritter.

Appeals court halts San Marcos marijuana ordinance

San Marcos residents' 2022 votes on marijuana decriminalization ordinance For Against

arguing it violated the Texas Local Government Code, which bars cities from limiting the enforce- ment of state drug laws. A Hays County judge dismissed the case in July 2024, but Paxton appealed. On April 17, the appeals court sided with Paxton, saying the ordi- nance is likely preempted by state law and ordered a temporary injunction.

A state appeals court has temporarily blocked San Marcos’ voter-approved marijuana ordinance, meaning residents may again face citations for low-level possession. Litigation on the ordinance is ongoing as of press time. The overview After voters approved the ordinance in 2022, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued the city,

18.16% 81.84%

SOURCE:HAYS COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICECOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ & JAMIE MOORE

Hays County pauses on property tax exemptions Amid concerns over tax revenue losses, County Judge Ruben Becerra requested in a letter that the Hays Central Appraisal District delay ruling on several property tax exemp- tion applications until the state provides legal guidance. The overview On April 28, Hays County led a tempo- rary restraining order to block out-of-county housing nance corporations from claiming tax exemptions on multifamily properties. The move comes after the Pecos and Pleasanton Housing Finance Corporations purchased apartment complexes in San Marcos and Kyle and are now seeking to remove them from the local tax rolls.

Kyle approves rst Water Master Plan

What’s happening Kyle’s water demand could more than double by 2080, with supply falling short by 2050, as the population nears 148,000. To address that strain, the plan outlines longterm investments, including building a $48.5 million aquifer storage and recovery well by 2030, participating in Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority’s WaterSECURE program by 2034, and evaluating potable reuse options by 2036, which could cost up to $143 million.

After months of supply concerns, Kyle has approved its rst comprehensive Water Master Plan to guide water planning over the next 50 years. City Council adopted the plan during its April 15 meeting, calling it a milestone in infra- structure development.

Demand Existing supply

The city of Kyle's water demand vs. existing supply According to the 2006 Draft Regional Water Plan, Kyle’s annual water demand is projected to increase from 5,929 acre-feet in 2030 to 14,261 acre-feet by 2080.

14,261

15K

11,974

10K

11,974

5,929

SOURCE: TEXAS WATER DEVELOPMENT BOARD COMMUNITY IMPACT

San Marcos asks Guadalupe County to address health hazards On April 1, San Marcos City Council approved a resolution urging Guadalupe County to address health and safety concerns in the Redwood and Rancho Vista communities. The overview The resolution follows reports of increased Development Board’s Economically Distressed Area Program. Both communities lie outside city limits but are within Guadalupe County’s jurisdiction and San Marcos CISD boundaries. A 2020 study linked failing septic systems and

“In my opinion, it’s shameful that the county this neighborhood is in doesn’t step up.” MATTHEW MENDOZA, SAN MARCOS CITY COUNCIL MEMBER

drainage issues to potential health risks in the area. The resolution highlights risks to children, older adults and immunocompromised individuals.

intestinal parasites among residents and encour- ages the county to seek aid from the Texas Water

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Election

BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ

Voters OK 4 of 5 HCISD propositions

Some context

HCISD’s $968.65 million bond Prop. A: General growth, facilities Prop. B: High school No. 4 Prop. C: High school No. 4 varsity stadium (failed) Prop. D: Activity centers Prop. E: Technology Superintendent Eric Wright said was necessary to address the district’s growing population. Results are unofficial until canvassed. The package was the largest proposed in the district’s history, which

Voters backed most of the proposed Hays CISD bond projects, according to unofficial voting results from Hays, Caldwell and Travis counties. Four out of five of the propositions for the $968.65-million bond package received over 50% of voter approval, with the failing proposition involving the construction of a varsity-sized stadium at the future High School No. 4.

District staff said they do not anticipate a tax rate increase as the bond amount is within HCISD’s bond capacity of $1.4 billion. HCISD Chief Communications Officer Tim Savoy added that the district will work to reduce bond project costs by negotiating with contractors to lower the price without impacting the quality of work.

Breaking down the bond The bond is broken into several propositions that are voted on individually.

For

Against

50% 50% Prop. D

39% 61% Prop. E

Prop. A

43% 57% Prop. B

Prop. C

40%

60%

52%

48%

$51.3M $396M

SOURCE: HAYS CISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT $6M $16.2M

$498.9M

SOURCE: HAYS CISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY ELISABETH JIMENEZ

HCISD eliminates some STEM classes

What else

District officials explored alternatives to cutting STEM specials at affected campuses, including increasing class sizes. However, they noted that raising class sizes won't be needed when they enforce the 110-student requirement for a fourth special. They ultimately chose to eliminate the additional specials, calling it “the least disruptive way to achieve budget savings.” The decision on the STEM program is final, according to HCISD representatives. However, they are still weighing potential legislative changes, the final budget, and actual enrollment numbers for the 2025-26 school year.

Hays CISD will cut science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, specials at five schools next year to address budget constraints, Superintendent Eric Wright said. The “special” classes are rotating programs outside of regular classroom activities. The programs typically include art, music and physical education. STEM is offered as a fourth special when a grade level has more than 110 students. Until now, the district has kept the fourth special even when class sizes dropped below that threshold. But HCISD officials say they can no longer afford to offer it at schools that don’t meet the 110-student minimum requirement.

Hays

45 TOLL

Carpenter Hill Elementary School

Buda Elementary School

Buda

Elm Grove Elementary School

Kyle

Kyle Elementary School

Hemphill Elementary School

• Give at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist. • Check your blind spots before changing lanes. • Slow down in bike-heavy areas. • Always look before opening your car door. This Bike Safety Month, it’s important to pay attention to everyone on the road. SHARE THE ROAD RESPONSIBLY

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Education Private School Guide

2025

Advent Ridge Academy Type: religious

Ladybird Montessori School Type: Montessori Grades Served: infants through grade 12

Charter schools

Grades served: pre-K through 10 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: choir, bells, drama, yearbook, student association Enrollment: 53 Tuition: $475-$645 per month • 1523 Old Ranch Road 12, San Marcos • www.adventridge.org

IDEA Kyle Academy and College Preparatory Type: traditional Grades Served: K-12 Extracurricular Activities: legal studies, nursing science Enrollment: 1,300 Tuition: free • 640 Philomena Drive, Kyle • www.ideapublicschools.org/our-schools/idea-kyle/ Valor Kyle Type: traditional Grades Served: K-11 Extracurricular Activities: sports, dance, chess club, Latin, drama, gardening club, choir Enrollment: 898 Tuition: free • 2355 Windy Hill, Kyle • www.valorEducation.org/ValorKyle This list is not comprehensive.

Extracurricular Activities: STEAM, robotics, 3-D printing, coding, carpentry, welding, pottery, art, culinary, sewing, music, theater, pickleball, soccer, yoga Enrollment: 250 Tuition: varies by semester • 2050 Cole Springs Road, Buda • www.budamontessori.com Wonderland School Type: religious Grades served: infants through sixth grade Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: Spanish, creative writing, art, physical education, computer technology Enrollment: 200 Tuition: $565-$1,125 per month • 302 Country Estates Drive, San Marcos • www.thewonderlandschool.com

Blanco River Academy Type: environmental

Grades served: 4-7, plus a hybrid high school Extracurricular Activities: varies by semester Enrollment: 20 Tuition: $10,200 per year • 501 Old Kyle Road, Bldg. 2, Ste. F, Wimberley • www.blancoriveracademy.org

SCHEDULE A TOUR

Ladybird Montessori School is an American Montessori Society (AMS) Verified Private School nestled on 14 beautiful acres in Buda, TX. We serve students from infancy through high school with: • Certified Montessori teachers in every classroom • Low student-to-teacher ratios • A full range of authentic Montessori materials We’re committed to nurturing the whole child in an inspiring, nature-rich environment. Interested in our scholarship program for qualifying 6th–9th grade students? Visit www.budamontessori.com to learn more or to schedule a personal tour.

Voted Best Private School In North Hays County!

www.budamontessori.com 512-295-3636

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SARAH HERNANDEZ & JAMIE MOORE

Charter schools

Private schools

Katherine Anne Porter School Type: traditional Grades served: 9-12 Extracurricular activities: art, theatre, Dungeons and Dragons, volleyball, basketball, horror, competitive video gaming through the ACE Afterschool Program Enrollment: not provided Tuition: free • 515 FM 2325, Wimberley • www.kapschool.org

San Marcos Academy Type: religious Grades served: pre-K3-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: athletic programs, theater, visual arts, music, Christian Ministries

Enrollment: 360 Tuition: not provided; financial aid and scholarships available • 2801 RR 12, San Marcos • www.smabears.org

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Education

Hays, San Marcos CISDs 2022-23 TEA ratings released

for the 2023-24 school year, due to another lawsuit. Ratings from 2024-25 are expected later this year.

Pflugerville ISD Superintendent Quintin Shepherd and Hutto ISD Superintendent Jeni Neatherlin described the data informing the 2022-23 ratings as old, and said that the ratings don’t reflect what’s occurring in classrooms today. The TEA remains blocked from releasing ratings

On April 24, the Texas Education Agency released public school accountability ratings for the 2022- 23 school year. This is the first time since 2019 that schools have received complete ratings, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and two lawsuits. In letters to their respective districts, both

Hays CISD

Percent of students per rating

2021-22 “what if”

2022-23

District score

The measure shows how many students attend schools with various ratings for academic achievement, one of three categories that make up the overall TEA rating.

The “What-if” rating scores the 2021-22 data using the 2022-23 methodology as a comparison point.

17%

83/100

80/100

19%

School scores

41%

School

2021-22 “what if”

2022-23

Armando Chapa Middle School

21%

Blanco Vista Elementary School

Buda Elementary School

Camino Real Elementary School

Reading Math This shows how well a district is ensuring that all student groups are successful. Closing the gaps

Elementary School

D J Red Simon Middle School

69% 56% Two or More Races 49% 33% African American

49% 38% Hispanic

75% 65% White

Dr T C McCormick Jr Middle School

Elm Grove Elementary School

Eric Dahlstrom Middle School

58% 50% American Indian 83% 60% Pacific Islander

43% 34% High Focus* 57% 46% All Students

Hemphill Elementary School

Jack C Hays High School

84% 82% Asian

Kyle Elementary School

Laura B Negley Elementary School

Laura B Wallace Middle School

*HIGH FOCUS INCLUDES ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS, ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS AND THOSE IN SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSES

Lehman HS

Live Oak Academy

Percentage of students approaching grade level or above on STAAR tests

Four-Year Graduation Rate

Moe and Gene Johnson High School

R C Barton Middle School

State

District

State

District

Ralph Pfluger Elementary School

Science Hall Elementary School

Sunfield Elementary School

N/A

Susie Fuentes Elementary School

Tobias Elementary School

Tom Green Elementary School

Reading

Math

Science

Social Studies

Uhland Elementary School

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON, HANNAH NORTON & BROOKE SJOBERG

San Marcos CISD District score The “What-if” rating scores the 2021-22 data using the 2022-23 methodology as a comparison point.

Percent of students per rating

2021-22 “what if”

2022-23

The measure shows how many students attend schools with various ratings for academic achievement, one of three categories that make up the overall TEA rating.

64/100

66/100

28%

School scores

18%

School

2021-22 “what if”

2022-23

54%

Bowie Elementary School

Crockett Elementary School

Reading This shows how well a district is ensuring that all student groups are successful. Closing the gaps

Math

Dezavala Elementary School

Goodnight Middle School

36% 23% African American 56% 33% Two or More Races

32% 22% Hispanic

62% 45% White

Hernandez Elementary School

Mendez Elementary School

American Indian

31% 22% High Focus* 39% 27% All Students

Miller Middle School

20%

Rodriguez Elementary School

San Marcos High School

78% 56% Pacific Islander

78% 80% Asian

Travis Elementary School

*HIGH FOCUS INCLUDES ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED STUDENTS, ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS AND THOSE IN SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASSES **INDICATES RESULTS ARE MASKED DUE TO SMALL NUMBERS TO PROTECT STUDENT CONFIDENTIALITY

Neighboring Districts

Lake Travis ISD: B Austin ISD: C Del Valle ISD: D

Percentage of students approaching grade level or above on STAAR tests

Four-Year Graduation Rate

State

District

State

District

290

183

Hays CISD: B Wimberley ISD: B Dripping Springs ISD: B

Reading

Math

Science

Social Studies

San Marcos CISD: D

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Development

BY JAMIE MOORE

San Marcos City Council OKs 7-story student apartments

Luxury homes to open this fall in Kyle Toll Brothers Inc. announced on April 29 that its newest residential development, Clara Vista at Waterridge, is coming to Kyle. Toll Brothers Inc. is a luxury home builder founded in 1967 and operating

New Mustang Ridge distribution center breaks ground Clay Development & Construction Inc. has broken ground on Mustang Ridge Distribu- tion Center I, a 538,720-square-foot specu- lative industrial facility at 6925 FM 1327, Austin. Scheduled for completion in late 2025, it is the largest spec industrial project currently under construction in the greater Austin area, according to a news release. The overview The project includes 65-foot loading bays, 105 dock doors, four drive-in overhead doors and two 130-foot truck courts. It’s the second addition to Mustang Ridge Business Park, coming after the 218,400-square-foot Distribution Center II, which wrapped up in early 2024.

Amenities would include:

Playground

Clubhouse

Pool

A proposed seven-story student housing project in San Marcos earned City Council approval on April 15 despite being denied by the Planning and Zoning Commission on March 15. What happened After discussing several conditions at their April 15 meeting, council members approved two items related to the development planned for 202 W. Hutchison St., a 2.2-acre site near downtown and adjacent to the H-E-B on West Hopkins Street. The location is within walking distance of the Texas State University campus. The approvals included a conditional-use permit for a purpose-built student housing project and an alternative compliance request to increase the building height from five to seven stories. The overview The complex will offer a mix of one- to five-bed- room units marketed as rent-by-the-bed student

housing. Parts of the first floor will include commercial space, such as office use. Without council approval, the developer could still construct a multifamily apartment complex on the same site under existing zoning regulations. However, this would restrict the project to one-to- three-bedroom units, require one parking space per unit instead of per bedroom, and would not be subject to any conditions imposed by the city. “Saying no to the CUP and alternative compli- ance does not stop the project, it does not stop students from living at the project [and] it does not stop rent-by-the-bed...” Quinn said. “However, saying yes to the project comes with additional benefits. It more than doubles the parking spots.” Digging deeper Although a groundbreaking date has not yet been set, the project will include: • Redeveloping underutilized land and bringing

Texas State University

in 24 states. The details

Proposed student apartments

Sales for the single-family home community are expected to begin in fall 2025, according to a news release. Clara Vista at Waterridge will be located at the intersection of Six Creeks and Bramble boulevards. The development will feature two home collec- tions, with designs ranging from 3,150 to over 5,600 square feet, the release stated. Homes will be built on 80- and 100-foot-wide lots. The cost Pricing will start in the mid-$800,000s for the

Brook Collection, while homes in the Spring Col- lection will begin in the mid-$900,000s, according to the release. Stay tuned Future residents will have access to a number of private community amenities. The location also offers proximity to shopping, dining and outdoor recreation opportunities, and is a short drive from Austin.

more residents downtown to support local businesses • Creating 10-15 permanent jobs to manage the property • Increased revenue from permits and impact fees • Higher annual real estate tax revenue

SAN MARCOS 510 Barnes Dr (512) 392-0366

CREEKSIDE TOWN CENTER 263 Creekside Crossing (830) 608-1969

SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 S I-35 Frontage Rd (512) 280-7400

NEW BRAUNFELS 1671 IH-35 S (830) 629-0434

Transportation

BY JAMIE MOORE

Kyle City Council discusses intersection xes On April 15, city ocials presented solutions for the intersection of Kyle’s Dacy Lane and Downing Way, which is experiencing a rising crash rate. Zooming in Collision area Most common crashes at intersection

San Marcos lowers speed limit in Wallace Addition San Marcos City Council gave the rst of two approvals needed to reduce the speed limit from 30 miles per hour to 25 mph in parts of the Wallace Addition. The council also authorized the installation of signs and trac devices to reect the change. Public input The proposal follows a Jan. 27 neighbor- hood meeting attended by the Public Works Department, during which residents voiced concerns about speeding. A petition was circulated after that meeting, gathering 77 responses, 70 of which supported the speed limit reduction. The neighborhood includes 172 developed parcels.

Driver A Driver B

The intersection has seen 21 crashes over the past ve years, according to the city’s presen- tation, with six occurring in 2024 alone. Mike Trimble, Kyle’s director of transportation and public works, said many collisions happen when a driver turns left from the T-intersection while another turns left into the same side street at the same time, creating a conict. The city has installed intersection warning signs and a vehicle speed feedback sign, which collects data on speeding. The options Sta presented several short- and long-term improvement options, including:

Kyle

249

• Monitoring the eectiveness of current safety measures • Sharing speed data with the Kyle Police Depart- ment for targeted enforcement • Proceeding with temporary trac signal installation • Conducting a follow-up study with updated data

Buda completes interim East Main Street x

infrastructure, was funded for design but not con- struction. The city can not aord the construction, prompting the need for an interim x. What’s changed The interim project widened Main Street and added a dedicated right-turn lane from westbound Main Street onto northbound I-35 frontage road.

An interim solution to address congestion on Main Street in Buda is now complete, oering driv- ers some relief, according to Public Information Ocer Michelle Henley. The background An East Main Street expansion, part of an $89.66 million bond package approved by Buda voters in 2021 to improve transportation and park

Our focus is on the recovery, flexibility and strengthening of the body with our one-on one stretch.

IT’S YOUR TIME Find Your Future With ACC austincc.edu

2610 Main St. Suite 105 Buda, TX 78610 We are in Sunfield Station

Scan for website

or Call us at

512.350.2444

Pamela O.

FIRST SESSION FREE

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

MORE STELLAR THAN USUAL!

A TOUR OF THE STATE, MADE ESPECIALLY FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT MAY 2025

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

DETOURS: Hoodoos in Big Bend Ranch State Park CRITTER: The Caprock Bison

OUT THERE: Meanwhile, in Texas MADE IN TEXAS: Music Makers FEATURE PREVIEW: Meet the Texperts

Above: Big Bend Ranch State Park.

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

DETOURS

Clods and Monsters

Location: In Big Bend Ranch State Park, 26 miles west of the Barton Warnock Visitor Center BY PAM LEBLANC WALKING AMONG the weird spires of rock that sprout like giant mushrooms in Big Bend Ranch State Park feels like wandering the set of the original Star Trek series. The sand-colored hoodoos—some as tall as a two-story building—look otherworldly, but they developed natu- rally. Eons of wind and rain have scrubbed away softer materials such as fine-grained mudstone and porous tu at the base of the columns, leaving caps of hardened rock at the top. Use your imagination and you might see a human-shaped figure, a lumpy rendition of a troll, or a colossal bird egg balanced on a pedestal. These “fairy towers” famously appeared in the closing scenes of Boy- hood, Richard Linklater’s 2014 coming-of-age drama. An easy stop if you’re driving through the park, the Hoodoos Trail is about a mile long. If you’re not up for the walk, a shaded picnic table oers views of the hoodoos, the Rio Grande, and Mexico beyond.

acres, “they’re usually just cud chewing and wallowing and walking around like they have all day to do nothing,” says Na- talie Smith, a park interpreter. Still, she warns visitors to stay at least fifty yards, or half the length of a football field, away from a bison—and even more during rutting season, which typically lasts from June to September, when they can be aggressive. “If you get two bulls that are equally dominant and are physically equals, they can fight, and they will,” says park superintendent Donald Beard. “We have had bulls killed by other bulls.”

The bison at Caprock Canyons State Park, in the Panhandle, default to photogenic docility, as befits a noble symbol of the American West. They are the descendants of five herds, in- cluding one created by Charles and Mary Ann Goodnight, who in 1878 rescued several calves during the great slaughter that made the once plenti- ful bovines a rarity. There are other herds on private land, but Caprock’s has been designat- ed the o cial herd of Texas, a celebrity status the bison seem unaware of. Mostly unrued by the campers and day hikers who visit the park’s 15,314

YIKES. HOW DO I AVOID IRRITATING A BISON? Leave appropriate space be- tween yourself and any animal capable of tap dancing on your organs, and look out for signs of agitation. “If their tail is in the air, like it’s flagging, you need to step back,” says Smith. Ditto if it’s swinging its head from side to side. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’M BEING CHARGED BY ONE? Beard says, “If you get into a situation where you’ve been charged, it’s too late.”

The Caprock Bison CRITTER OF THE MONTH

OH. —Lauren Larson

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

MADE IN TEXAS

The Sound Machinists A Houston-area company creates modern synthesizers with vintage vibes for Joe Walsh, Duran Duran, and LCD Soundsystem. BY MICHAEL HALL

OUT THERE

Meanwhile, In Texas

In the right hands—customers include Chro- meo, Duran Duran, LCD Soundsystem, and nu- merousfilmandTVsounddesigners—theycan create audio that is human and otherworldly, animated and moody, hard and soft. “The idea that synths are just beeps and bloops is not accurate at all,” says Mike Gra- ham, an engineer and the vice president of business development. “They can sound creepy; they can sound angry; they can sound happy or sad. They can sound inquisitive.” The company’s roots go back to 1969, when Roger Arrick, then an eight-year-old living in suburbanFortWorth,firstheardSwitched-On Bach, an album of the composer’s songs played on the synthesizer created by Robert Moog. To read the rest of this story and stories about other independent makers in Texas, subscribe to Texas Monthly.

THE BUILDING’S WALLS sometimes shake with a sonic rumble. Other times, it’s like a spaceship is flying overhead or as if the elec- tronic duo Daft Punk has reunited in this pleasant industrial park in Stafford, thirty minutes from downtown Houston. But it’s just business as usual at the workshop head- quarters of Synthesizers.com. Thecompanyhasmadeanalogmodularsyn- thesizers for nearly thirty years. The instru- ments are based on the classic Moog (rhymes with “vogue”) synths of the sixties and sev- enties, but these modern-day machines are cheaper and easier to play. They are elegant, with black panels, silver knobs, and red lights.

Numerous attendees at a pickle- themed event in New Braunfels claimed that it was a fiasco, with one unhappy patron posting that she “didn’t even get 1 pickle” and that organizers “should have called it the dusty long line festival.” A pig named Peppa and a blind dog named Amy were reunited with their owner after the lost pair trotted along- side U.S. 290 and wandered into a general store in Austin’s Harris Branch neighborhood. Drivers of two vacuum trucks caused a large explosion and fire after they al- legedly attempted to steal petroleum from a pipeline maintenance station near Orla. The discovery of more than one hun- dred human teeth buried in the yard of a Hondo home prompted an investiga- tion by local police, who found out that the previous owners of the property were dentists who may have been fol- lowing a tradition of burying teeth for good luck . A state representative from Smithville introduced a bill called the Forbidden Unlawful Representation of Roleplay- ing in Education (FURRIES) Act, which would ban “non-human” behavior in schools, such as wearing a tail. A substation explosion at Texas Tech University caused widespread power outages and the eruption of green flames from manhole covers across campus. —Meher Yeda

Mike Graham operates a Studio-110 system at the Synthesizers.com oce in Staord.

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