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Lake Travis Westlake Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1 FEB. 26 MARCH 25, 2025
Budgetary concerns amplify Eanes ISD closes Valley View Elementary, cuts Spanish program
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and English since 2016. The decisions come as EISD is facing a multimil- lion-dollar budget shortfall that is projected to rise. “The small tweaks we’ve been making that have been invisible for the last number of years are not going to do it anymore,” Chief Financial O cer Chris Scott said about EISD’s budget. “Unfortu- nately, these are going to be visible changes.”
BY CHLOE YOUNG
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In January, the Eanes ISD board of trustees voted to close Valley View Elementary by merging the campus with Barton Creek Elementary. Additionally, the board voted to discontinue the district’s Spanish Immersion program to further reduce expenses. The program has allowed elemen- tary students to receive instruction in both Spanish
A Barton Creek Elementary School 1314 Patterson Road, Austin B Valley View Elementary School 1201 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin
CONTINUED ON 22
Enrollment at Barton Creek Elementary School is expected to increase as a result of the blend.
CHLOE YOUNG COMMUNITY IMPACT
Also in this issue Impacts: Keep an eye out for a new Wahoo’s Fish Tacos in Hudson Bend (Page 6)
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Education: Read about LTISD Superintendent Paul Norton’s resignation (Page 26)
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hello YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST neighbor YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.
Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.
I Live Here | I Work Here | I Get Results Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.
Barton Creek | 2000 Wimberly Lane $2,450,000 | 4 Bed | 4 Bath | 3,983 SF 3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES 3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
8507 CHALK KNOLL DRIVE WOODS II | Golf course & views
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
AUSTIN’S LUXURY REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST
YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST 3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
Beth Drewett, a Texas native with over three decades of experience in Austin, is deeply rooted in the community and known for her exceptional dedication to real estate. Recognized as a leading figure in Austin’s luxury real estate community, Beth specializes in luxury homes, lakefront properties, land, and investments. Her distinction is reflected in her enduring client relationships, exclusive networks, private memberships, and profound expertise in both the local and luxury markets.
Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. REALTOR ® REALTOR ®
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
Spanish Oaks | 12901 Flowering Senna Bend $1,650,000 | Lot #24 | Private Well | 0.858 AC 2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES 2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES 2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
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2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
REALTOR ® REALTOR ®
Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
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Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES 8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
rmational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All act dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, m of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. rmational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All act dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, m of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Neighborhood Market Repor ts
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES Barton Creek | 3304 Coralvine Cove $2,495,000 | 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 1.22 AC 8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
mpiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All ng the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, censed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. able but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, ousing Opportunity.
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
s subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal,
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LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
EXQUISITE HOMES, EXCEPTIONAL REPRESENTATION
As founding members of Compass Austin Luxury Advisors, we have access to an expansive network that gives us insight into what is happening on and off the market. We provide exclusive bespoke marketing materials to help promote your property to an extensive network of agents with affluent clients.
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Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions. Data as of December 31, 2023, based on sales volume, luxury sales volume, closed sales, co-op sales, unit sales, market share, or luxury market share depending on the ranking criteria for each specific region included and that region’s MLS data. Market Share data pulled from the ABOR/MLS report. 1/1/2024 to 6/30/2024. Based on total number of sold single family residences sold at $3,500,000 and above. Results deemed accurate but are not guaranteed.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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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Taylor Stover General Manager tstover@ communityimpact.com
Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Product Manager Gloria Gonzalez Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara Austin Market President Travis Baker
Grace Dickens Editor gdickens@ communityimpact.com
Jacqueline Harris Account Executive jharris@ communityimpact.com
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
Impacts
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science, technology, engineering and math; creative arts; and nature play. • Opened Jan. 24, classes begin in March • 8300 N. RM 620, Austin • www.austinymca.org/childcare/tomorrow-academy 4 Austin’s Floor Store The flooring store in Four Points sells a variety of vinyl, hardwood, carpet, tile and laminate flooring options, and provides measuring, removal and installation services. • Opened Dec. 1 • 7710 N. RM 620, Ste. B6, Austin • https://austinfloorstore.com 5 Starbucks The Seattle-based coffee shop is now open across from Foot Locker in Barton Creek Square. Starbucks serves coffee, teas and pastries. • Opened in January • 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin • www.starbucks.com
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SHOPS PKWY.
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BARTON CREEK BLVD.
6 Wahoo’s Fish Tacos The California-based chain restaurant will offer fish, chicken and steak tacos, as well as sides like chips and guacamole or queso. Franchise owner Jesse Fortney is also an owner of Nameless Saloon in Leander and the now-closed Weirdo’s Bar in North Austin. • Opening in April • 3509 N. RM 620, Austin • www.wahoos.com 7 Empower Kidz Drop-In Childcare The child care facility owned by Jeannique Moore, also the owner of Empower Family Chiropractic, will offer care for ages 6 weeks to 10 years. Drop-in style hourly care will be available for days, evenings and weekends, offering indoor and outdoor play spaces for both members and nonmembers. • Opening in summer • 2951 S. RM 620, Lakeway • Website unavailable as of press time
Bee Cave
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2 Bee Cave Family Dentistry The practice, led by Dr. Smrity Amatya, offers comprehensive dentistry for all ages. • Opened Jan. 22 • 13917 W. Hwy. 71, Ste. 200, Bee Cave • www.beecavefamilydentistry.com
Now open
1 Bricks & Minifigs Bee Cave The Lego supply shop, which opened in January, allows customers to buy, sell and trade Lego products. Minifigures, bulk Lego pieces, and new and prebuilt sets are available for purchase. • Opened Jan. 11 • 11905 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 105, Bee Cave • www.bricksandminifigs.com/beecave-tx
3 YMCA Tomorrow Academy The YMCA Tomorrow Academy is accepting enrollment for ages 6 weeks to prekindergarten. The facility will offer eight classrooms with a focus on early literacy;
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
8 Café Largesse The cafe and wine bar owned by Olga Estrella and her husband will offer breakfast and lunch alongside evening service Wednesday-Saturday. It will have a full bar plus live music featuring local artists a few times a week. • Opening in March • 2800 Barton Creek Blvd., Ste. 104, Austin • www.cafelargesse.com 9 goGlow The sunless airbrush and skin care service provider will offer customized tanning services and professional application using organic and vegan products. The business is owned locally by former technology company executives and entrepreneurs Ramya Kumaraswamy and Kunal Vanjara. • Opening in June • 3600 N. Capital of Texas Hwy., Bldg. A, Ste. 202, Austin • www.goglow.co 10 Miniso The variety store will offer household and consumer goods, including cosmetics, stationery, toys and kitchenware, and will be located next to Abercrombie & Fitch in the mall. • Opening in February • 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin • www.miniso.com 11 Pastissimo This restaurant will offer custom-made pasta bowls next to AMC Theatres. Guests can choose from a variety of pasta, sauces and proteins to personalize their dish. • Opening in March • 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin • www.pastissimo.us 12 Claw & Fun For mall-goers seeking a different shopping experience, Claw & Fun will feature a variety of claw machines with prizes to win. The arcade will open next to Old Navy in
Now open
Coming soon
13 Flutter Romance Bookstore Laurelin Paige, a New York Times-bestselling romance writer, has opened a bookstore dedicated to romance novels in the Hudson Bend area. The shop carries a wide range of novels, from dark romance to LGBTQ+ titles, and hosts conversations with authors of romance books. • Grand opening Feb. 14 • 2903A N. RM 620, Austin • Instagram: flutterromancebookstore
16 That’s My Jam Randall and Suarta Mershon will open a new breakfast, lunch and event space within the Shops at The Galleria. The new business will serve American cuisine and will allow the space to be used for events after 3 p.m. The menu will include items such as omelets, Benedicts, bowls, breakfast classics, pancakes and more, alongside lunch items such as salads, starters, sandwiches and wraps. • Opening mid-May • 12815 Shops Parkway, Ste. 100, Bee Cave • www.thatsmyjam512.com
14 von Motors The boutique car dealership will focus on rides from the ‘80s to early ‘00s, owner J. Page von Roenn said. A list of vehicles offered is available on the business’s website. • Opening March 29 • 2214 Bee Creek Road, Spicewood • www.vonmotors.com 15 Sometimes Island Tiki and Beer Oasis Texas Brewing Company will open its third venue within the Oasis Texas Lakeside Outdoor Mall, offering tiki-inspired drinks. The bar will be located on the mall’s second floor, across from The Barrel Room. • Opening in April • 6650 Comanche Trail, Austin • www.otxbc.com
In the news
17 Lakeside Signs & Graphics Kaushal and Panna Shah took over ownership of the sign business in December.
• 401 N. RM 620, Unit A5, Lakeway • www.lakesidesignsgraphics.com
18 KLA Schools of Sweetwater Owned by local educator and administrator Sanam Madampath, the Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool will celebrate its five-year anniversary in March. The school offers care for children up to 5 years old.
Barton Creek Square. • Opening this summer • 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin • www.clawandfun.com
• 18101 W. Hwy. 71, Bldg. B, Austin • www.klaschools.com/sweetwater
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LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
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Not a hotel guest? Not a problem! Everyone can enjoy the sunset while sipping a drink from a rocking chair on a covered balcony. Indoor area offers four TVs for sports and news 101 Lakeway Dr, Lakeway, TX 78734 | (512) 261-6600
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY BEN THOMPSON
Nearly $50 million in city of Austin funds have been earmarked for various wild re prevention e orts over the next few years. City Council voted Jan. 30 to reserve city funds for tree trimming and other wild re mitigation work in public spaces, including up to $42 million over six years for trimming around Austin Energy power lines and up to $7.5 million over ve years for work around city parkland that’s at higher re risk. A nearly $200,000 agreement with the Department of Agriculture also approved Jan. 30 will see U.S. Forest Service researchers conduct a new assessment of wildland re fuels in parts of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, building upon a 2000s study from Baylor University. Council votes to fund re study
Balcones Canyonlands Preserve
Potential study locations
What’s next
Data collection in the preserve could start as soon as February and wrap up this summer. Formal updates to the 2000s Baylor data and a published report on impacts to the woodlands are expected in the winter, and ongoing data collection could continue through 2028. In addition to the new federal project, Austin Water also continues to oversee fuel reduction projects in re- risk areas around the city. Mayor Kirk Watson said the new funding and local initiatives are part of the city’s proactive wild re preparedness strategies. “The wild re threat to Austin and the surrounding area is very real—it’s a matter of when we have a serious re, not if we have one,” Watson said in his Jan. 29 newsletter.
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
NEW LUXURY HOMES IN THE HEART OF LAKEWAY
DESIGN CENTER NOW OPEN
FIVE MODEL HOMES ON DISPLAY (PHOTOS FROM PLAN D ABOVE)
Visit www.enclaveatyaupon.com for videos, tours and photos
Lynn Morgan, Broker-owner Lmorgan@lakewayluxuryproperty.com | 512-413-0261 Design Center Open By Appointment
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY GRACE DICKENS & KAROLINE PFEIL
Bee Cave to hold public safety building election The city of Bee Cave will hold a May 3 election for a new public safety building alongside the reauthorization of a road maintenance fund tax. The overview The city’s proposed public safety building will appear on the ballot for voter approval following the passage of Proposition G in November, which requires voter approval for city land develop- ment. The new facility will house the Bee Cave Police Department and Lake Travis Fire Rescue. In addition to an extended timeline, additional costs were incurred by the passage of Proposi- tion G, Oakley said at a meeting in December. Assuming that ground is broken on the public safety building in August—which would mark a six-month delay in plans—upward of $200,000- $300,000 could be added to costs for the project, depending on market volatility and changes to construction costs, Oakley said. In total, the city will pay up to $18 million for the project, with Lake Travis Fire Rescue paying up to $13 million. Additionally, voters will choose whether or not to re-authorize a 0.125% sales tax collection for a road maintenance fund, which has been in place West Lake Hills joins STEAR program West Lake Hills enrolled in the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry, or STEAR, program in January to help residents needing assistance during city emergencies requiring evacuation. The overview STEAR, administered by the Texas Divi- sion of Emergency Management, is a registry program providing information on com- munity members to emergency responders to assist individuals facing challenges like disability, communication barriers and more
Lakeway incumbents secure May seats Mayor Tom Kilgore and incumbent City Council members Chris Forton and Kent O’Brien will serve another two-year term in Lakeway after being unopposed the Feb. 14 filing deadline. Diving in deeper In addition to the incumbents, Zoning & Planning Commission Chair Louis Mastrangelo, formerly Mayor Pro Tem on council, will return to fill the third seat up for election, held by Gretchen Vance, who is ineligible to run for re-election since she has already served three consecutive terms. Kilgore has served as mayor since 2021, Vance has been on council since 2019, and council members Forton and O’Brien have held their seats since 2023. Council members terms are set at two years, according to the city’s charter. No council member or mayor may serve for more than six consecutive years. Candidates must be registered Lakeway voters, at least 21 years old and to not hold any other compensated public office position.
On the ballot
A proposition to approve a new $18M public safety building
A proposition to re-approve a 0.125% road maintenance sales tax
Dates to know: • April 22: first day of early voting • April 29: last day of early voting • May 3: election day
SOURCE: CITY OF BEE CAVE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Rollingwood faces rising drainage project costs As Rollingwood works to update its water systems, unexpected infrastructure conflicts have been discovered by contractors at the intersection of Hatley Drive and Park Hills Drive, driving the cost of the project up an additional $76,880. A previously unlabeled water bypass pipe was discovered at the site, said Greg Blackburn, an engineer with K Friese + Associates, at Rolling- wood City Council’s Jan. 15 meeting. The funds will be used to remove the pipe, add new valves and complete additional tunneling work. Mayor Gavin Massingill pointed to the bypass loop as a major problem inhibiting attempts to isolate water service in this region of the city. “There has been a mystery a number of times where we’ve tried to turn things off and things just don’t turn off,” Massingill said. “... We feel like we may have found the culprit.” for two decades, Mayor Kara King said. Originally, all five City Council seats were slated to appear on the ballot, including Andrea Willott, Kevin Hight, and Mayor Pro Tem Andrew Clark alongside interim council members Kit Crumbley and Blake Sbrocco. As of the Feb. 14 filing deadline, no other can- didates applied for a place on the ballot, meaning the three incumbent City Council members will retain their seats for two additional years. Crumbley and Sbrocco will also join the dais for one year, finishing out the unexpired terms of Courtney Hohl and Jon Cobb, who resigned in December.
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The overview Improvements being made to the water system at Hatley and Park Hills are a smaller part of the city’s Water System Capital Improvement Plan. In November 2022, Rollingwood voters approved Proposition A, which set aside $5.3 million for installing or replacing approximately 11,000 linear feet of water lines, valves and hydrants through- out the city, according to the city’s website. In September, $121,143 in additional costs were also added to the Capital Improvement Plan due to unexpected issues, bringing the overall improve- ments cost to $6.6 million.
in case of an emergency. Residents can enroll at
www.stear.texas.gov. Upon enrolling in the STEAR program, the city will be required to perform wellness checks on enrolled residents during disasters or emergencies.
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LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
Be a Voice in Your Community for PEC Run for the Board of Directors
WE SELL FAMILY FUN!
If you live in PEC district 4 or 5 and would like to be an advocate for your community at PEC, now is your chance to run for PEC’s Board of Directors. Your participation can help power PEC’s future. All original copies of candidate nomination materials are due by 5 p.m., March 24, at PEC’s Headquarters, located at 201 S. Avenue F, in Johnson City.
Pedernales Electric Cooperative
19818 Hwy. 71, Spicewood TX, 78669 (512) 729-0700 | fpsaustin.com
myPEC.com/nominations Check out the process
12
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
State
BY BEN THOMPSON & CHLOE YOUNG
5 legislative updates to know from Austin-area lawmakers
The 89th Texas Legislature convened for its ve-month biennial session on Jan. 14 in Austin. The session opened with the Texas Houses’ election of a new speaker, Rep. Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, as review of the hundreds of bills led in late 2024 and early 2025 has begun. The Austin area’s pool of lawmakers have brought legislation on a variety of topics aimed at local and statewide issues, and will continue to le and review those proposals through the months ahead.
2 Additional protections proposed for renters Rep. Gina Hinojosa,
3 Leaders look to ban local ‘guaranteed income’ programs
Rep. Ellen Troxclair, R-Lakeway, and Sens. Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston and Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, led House Bill 530 and Senate bills 395 and 743 to ban local governments from o ering unconditional cash payments. In Austin, millions of dollars have been spent over the past few years on income programs.
D-Austin, led bills that would further protect tenants from last-minute rent increases. House Bill 1185 would require landlords to give written notice of rent increases at least seven days before a tenant is required to provide notice of vacating by the end of
Rep. Gina Hinojosa
1 Creation of high-speed rail line oated
Austin-area Democrats Sen. Sarah Eckhardt and Rep. John Bucy submitted legislation last fall— Senate Bill 424 and House Bill 483—in support of a new high-speed rail project that’d link San Antonio, Austin and Dallas along I-35. Lawmakers are looking to partner with a private entity to build and operate the new rail line capable of running at least 110 miles per hour. Eckhardt said the new travel option would reduce vehicle accidents and emissions, and the “excise tax” of tra c that’s imposed on lower-income workers today. 35
their lease term. The notice must also state any improvements the tenant’s property would receive under the rent increase. Additionally, HB 1184 would bar landlords from leasing a unit to a tenant at a di erent rate than what was included in the application process. Landlords who violate either of these polices would be required to pay a $100 penalty to the tenant, plus additional fees.
4 Bill aims to strike state fees for rst-year businesses Under House Bill 346 from Rep. Caroline Harris Davila, R-Round Rock, new businesses starting up around Texas could be in line for some nancial relief. All licensing and registration fees typically imposed during the rst year would be waived.
Dallas
30
“High-speed rail is part of modernizing our economy, and the longer we wait the more Texans will pay,” she said. The proposal comes as local o cials have worked to secure support for the new Central Texas rail.
5 E orts to increase school funding underway
Basic allotment over time in Texas
20
45
Rep. Vikki Goodwin, D-Austin, led House Bill 1770 to raise the basic allotment from $6,160 to $7,500 for the 2025-26 school year. The legislation would then adjust the basic allotment for in ation each year. Goodwin told Community Impact she led the legislation as Austin-area school districts are facing budget de cits and eliminating programs as well as teaching positions. E orts to raise the basic allotment failed during the 2023 legislative session as the additional funding was tied to the passage of school vouchers, she said.
$8K
High speed rail line
$6,160
$5,040
$6K
$4K
Austin
0
10
10
San Antonio
N
SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCYCOMMUNITY IMPACT
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LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY HALEY MCLEOD & KAROLINE PFEIL
Lakeway considers U-turn improvements on RM 620
MoPac South project approaches next steps In January, the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority began work to address the more than 1,200 comments received on the MoPac South expansion ahead of its environmental analysis releasing mid-2025. In a nutshell The agency has dialed in on plans for up to two new toll lanes in either direction to address traffic for an 8-mile stretch of south MoPac from Cesar Chavez Street to Slaugh- ter Lane. Austin City Council member Paige Ellis urged the Mobility Authority to limit expansion to only one additional express lane, while the city of West Lake Hills joined Rollingwood in pushback against the project due to its impact on local mobility.
The city of Lakeway is weighing the benefits and impacts of widening U-turns on RM 620. At least four intersections would be included in an improvement plan brought to City Council by council member Kent O’Brien on Feb. 3, which would involve increasing the turning radius at U-turn points along RM 620 by adding additional pavement. The overview To solve the problem of slow turns at signalized intersections within the raised median section of RM 620, O’Brien’s proposed the implementation of “loons,” which add pavement to the side of a street to provide more space for vehicles to turn. To start the project, the city would need to coordinate with TxDOT to authorize the project through a TxDOT Advanced Funding Agreement, which would cost the city around $250,000 to complete based on an estimated total project cost of $3.5 million-$4 million.
A Y B
MAIN ST.
620
Lakeway
AMENO DR.
N
What’s next? Although no action was taken at the meeting, council agreed that O’Brien should continue working on the project and return with refined details when ready.
Loop 360 expansion shifts focus to Westlake Drive
360
Progress continues for Westlake Drive and Cedar Street improvements, Texas Department of Transportation officials shared Feb. 5. The Loop 360 project covers 14 miles from US 183 to US 290. The changes for Westlake Drive and Cedar Street plan to reduce traffic by removing signals and constructing underpasses allowing Loop 360 mainlanes to run under the new bridges, TxDOT engineer William Semora said.
What to expect New north and southbound frontage roads are in progress. Crews expect to finish work on the southbound frontage road this spring, and the agency is targeting March or April to close the Westlake Drive intersection, though this is not guaranteed, Semora said. Completion is estimated for mid-2026, Semora said.
Austin
360
N
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LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
State
BY HANNAH NORTON
Texas comptroller projects $24B surplus as legislative session begins
Put in perspective
Gov. Greg Abbott outlined his top priorities for the legislative session during his biennial State of the State address Feb. 2 in Austin. “No state offers the opportunity that Texas pro- vides. ... But we know that more must be done to ensure that prosperity reaches every Texas family and every Texas business,” Abbott said. The third-term governor named seven emer- gency items: • Increasing property tax relief • Investing in water infrastructure • Raising salaries for teachers • Expanding career training in high schools • Enacting school choice • Tightening bail restrictions • Creating a cybersecurity center in San Antonio
Texas lawmakers returned to Austin on Jan. 14 for the 89th legislative session. The only thing legislators are constitutionally required to do during the 140-day session is pass a balanced budget consisting of state and federal funds, according to the House Research Organization. Lawmakers will have an estimated $194.6 billion available for general-purpose spending as they write the 2026-27 state budget, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced Jan. 13. This includes a $23.8 billion surplus, which Hegar said will be left over from the 2024-25 budget cycle ending Aug. 31. “Texas is in good financial shape,” Hegar said as he presented his biennial revenue estimate to state officials. “Thoughtful consideration of spending decisions, as always, will be crucial to ensure new and existing investments can be funded in the future, and that these investments focus on improving the lives of Texans.” In 2023, lawmakers adopted a $321 billion budget for the current biennium. They entered that session with a historic $32.7 billion surplus. In total, $362.2 billion will be available for the 2026-27 budget, Hegar estimated. This includes about $115 billion in federal funds, which must be spent on Medicaid and other federal programs. Lawmakers released their initial budget bills, Senate Bill 1 and House Bill 1, Jan. 22. The Senate’s $332.9 billion proposal was filed by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, while Rep. Greg Bonnen, R-Friendswood, filed the House’s $335.7 billion budget draft.
Funding lawmakers’ priorities Lawmakers appeared aligned on several major initiatives Jan. 22. They will iron out the details before passing the budget this spring.
Border security Budget writers agreed to use $6.5 billion to continue funding state law enforcement at the Texas-Mexico border. Property taxes Each chamber set aside over $6 billion to build on property tax cuts passed in 2023, although they proposed different approaches. Public schools Both drafts would raise public education funding by about $5 billion , which could include increases for teacher salaries. Water infrastructure The chambers agreed to use $2.5 billion to expand Texas’ water supplies and improve related infrastructure. Private education Each draft includes $1 billion for vouchers, which would give families public money to send their children to private schools.
One more thing
Hegar noted that if Texas were its own nation, it would be the world’s eighth- largest economy. He said legislators’ budget decisions have “kept Texas in a strong position relative to other states that exhibited less fiscal discipline” and urged them to continue spending the state’s money wisely. “Despite positive economic numbers, many of our residents are feeling the higher cost of groceries, housing and other basic necessities, and many are struggling to ensure a bright future for their children,” Hegar said Jan. 13.
SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Learn more about school funding issues and how they affect your local schools. THE 89 TH LEGISLATIVE SESSION IS HERE
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16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Development
BY KAROLINE PFEIL
82-lot Lakeway development greenlit
The bottom line
At the meeting, 11 residents addressed the council during public comment, sharing their reasons for opposing the development. Issues centered around the character and quality of the development, as well as environmental concerns like water drainage and tree clearing. “Our goal is to save every good-health tree that we can,” Onyx representative Spencer Huck said. Several council members also pushed for the developers to create a pathway from Lakeway Heights to the neighboring Lake Travis Elementary School, which was ultimately incorporated into the approval of the zoning change. While some council members disagreed, including Matt Sherman and Kelly Brynteson, the motion was ultimately approved, allowing the development to move forward.
A new residential development next to Lake Travis Elementary School has been approved by Lakeway City Council with ve members approving and two opposing. Lakeway Heights, an 82-lot residential project proposed to be built on 13 acres of land at 15115 Kollmeyer Drive, was approved for a zoning change by Lakeway City Council at a Jan. 27 meeting. The lot was previously zoned for agricultural and residential use and will be rezoned to a planned unit development. Residents have protested the development for several reasons including potential tra c disruptions, especially during school pickup and drop-o , and aesthetic concerns. The project, put forward by Houston-based developers Onyx Residential, was rst brought to Lakeway’s attention in 2022, and has gone through several phases of planning.
A rendering of the proposed Lakeway Heights development was shared at the Jan. 8 meeting.
Lake Travis Elementary School
Lakeway Heights
620
N
17
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY CHLOE YOUNG
Lake Travis ISD enrollment growth projected to slow
Enrollment in Lake Travis ISD is expected to grow at a slower rate than previously projected as fewer elementary students are entering the district. At a Jan. 15 board of trustees meeting, Population and Survey Analysts President Stacey Tepera provided a demographic update. Zooming out LTISD has experienced signifi- cant growth over the past decade, gaining an additional 2,177 students since 2014, Tepera said. This growth has tapered over the last five years amid the COVID-19 pandemic, rising housing costs and the district nearing build-out, she said. In October, LTISD’s enrollment of 11,010 students was 305 stu- dents lower than PASA’s previous enrollment projections. This comes as the district is enrolling a smaller population of elementary students, Tepera said. By 2033, LTISD is expected to have 12,686 students, which is around 1,000 fewer students than
last year’s projections for 2033. Zooming in Bee Cave and Rough Hollow elementaries are expected to see the most enrollment growth over the next nine years, while Lake Point and Lake Travis elemen- taries are projected to grow the least. Bee Cave Middle School is projected to have nearly 1,000 students by 2033. Meanwhile, Hudson Bend Middle School’s enrollment is expected to decline. Next school year, Lake Travis High School’s enrollment is pro- jected to barely exceed its capac- ity of 3,500 students. Although PASA’s high school enrollment projections have declined, the change is not expected to affect the opening of High School No. 2, Tepera said. Amid lower enrollment projections, LTISD announced in November that it will push the opening of High School No. 2 from 2027 to 2028 and delay the open- ing of Elementary School No. 8.
PreK-3 through Middle School
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LTISD is expected to gain 1,676 students over the next nine years, according to a 2025 demographic update by Population and Survey Analysts.
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Reduced Projected enrollment Enrollment
Projected enrollment Accelerated Projected enrollment
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15,000
12,000
9000
0
SOURCE: POPULATION AND SURVEY ANALYSTS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
19
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY BRITTANY ANDERSON, GRACE DICKENS & CHLOE YOUNG
LTISD to see $5M budget surplus after changing fiscal year start date After years of facing budget shortfalls, Lake Travis ISD is projected to adopt a budget with a surplus of around $5 million next fiscal year. The surplus comes as the district will change its fiscal year start date from Sept. 1 to July 1. Despite the revenue increase, LTISD is expected to continue experiencing financial constraints amid a $6 budget shortfall this fiscal year and a projected $3.68 mil- lion shortfall in FY 2026-27, according to a presenta- tion from a Jan. 15 board of trustees meeting. The update In May, the board of trustees voted to change the district’s fiscal year start date from Sept. 1 to July 1 beginning in 2026. Under the new schedule, FY 2025-26 will begin Sept. 1 but end June 30 ahead of FY 2026-27
EISD, LTISD to hold trustee elections
LTISD budget shortfalls over time The district is projecting a $5 million budget surplus next fiscal year followed by a $3.68 million budget shortfall in fiscal year 2026-27.
-$4M -$6M -$2M $0M $2M $4M $6M
$5.07M
Eanes and Lake Travis ISD voters will have the opportunity to elect representation for five board of trustee places this year. The boards unanimously approved elec- tion orders during their January meetings calling for elections to be held in May. Two-minute impact EISD will have Place 6 and Place 7 on the ballot, currently held by Heather Sheffield and Ellen Balthazar, respectively. In LTISD, Place 3, 4 and 5 will be up for election, represented by Erin Archer, John Aoueille and Kim Flasch, respectively. The positions are at-large positions, mean- ing they represent the entire district instead of a portion of the district as a single-mem- ber position. Trustee terms last three years without compensation.
$1.19M
-$6M
-$3.68M
SOURCE: LAKE TRAVIS ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
beginning July 1, said Pam Sanchez, assistant superintendent for business services who is serving as LTISD’s acting superintendent. This will allow LTISD to receive 12 months of revenue for 10 months of expenditures, resulting in a one-time payment of $10 million, Sanchez said in July. The projected budget for FY 2025-26 also includes a 1% pay raise for staff totaling $775,000.
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LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
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