Leander - Liberty Hill Edition | January 2024

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Leander Liberty Hill Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 9 JAN. 17FEB. 15, 2024

2024 Annual Community Guide

Bruce Trzeciak has been a school resource ocer for Leander ISD for over 10 years, most recently at Leander High School.

COURTESY CHRISTIAN MARCELLILEANDER ISD

Leander ISD begins creation of district police force

District ocials said creating an in-house police department is the best path forward, but they anticipate facing challenges along the way due to a lack of funding and competition in hiring.

House Bill 3, passed in 2023, mandated districts to sta an armed security guard on every campus by Sept. 1. However, Leander ISD claimed a good- cause exception, which provides districts more time and options to satisfy the law.

BY CHLOE YOUNG

As districts across Texas grapple with how to implement new state safety requirements, Leander ISD is moving forward with forming its own police department.

CONTINUED ON 22

Also in this issue

Impacts: Nameless Saloon brings food trucks to Leander (Page 6)

Education: Legacy Ranch principal prepares for school opening (Page 15)

Community: Bar W Marketplace brings 30 new businesses (Page 30)

Dining: Lali Son oers Nepalese cuisine from gas station (Page 36)

Lakeside at Tessera on Lake Travis MOVE�INTO�YOUR DREAM�HOME�IN��!

From the $380s

Gorgeous location on Lake Travis in Lago Vista across from Balcones Canyonlands Preserve 512.267.3816 | highlandhomes.com

Learn more about Lakeside at Tessera!

�� * �TO�BUY�A�LOWER�INTEREST�RATE!

*All eligible sales must be original contracts with Highland Homes signed on or after January 1, 2024, and on or before January 31, 2024. Valid for all Highland Homes new builds and quick move-in homes in any community in Austin. Must apply for a loan with Highland HomeLoans, LLC within 5 days of entering your contract and must close and fund that loan within 12 months of contract date to qualify. Highland Homes to contribute up to $20,000, which can be used towards lender fees, borrower requested discount points, rate lock extensions, upfront mortgage insurance, title policy, recording fees, and other closing costs (some costs may be excluded). Amount will be reflected on the Closing Disclosure. To participate in the promotion, Buyer must finance through Highland HomeLoans. Buyer is entitled to finance through other lenders, but shall not be eligible for this promotion unless HHL is Buyer’s lender. This is not a commitment to lend, availability subject to change without notice or prior obligation. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Exclusions may apply. Highland Homes reserves the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time. All rights reserved. ©2024 Highland HomeLoans (NMLS: 124684). All loans are subject to borrower qualifications, including income, property evaluation, and final credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Equal Housing Lender. Highland HomeLoans is a subsidiary of PlainsCapital Bank and exempt from mortgage banker licensing in Texas. Highland HomeLoans is an affiliated business arrange- ment between Highland LoanSource, Ltd. and PrimeLending Ventures Management, LLC. Highland LoanSource, Ltd. is affiliated with Highland Homes, LLC.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Happy New Year! Happy New You!

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL $189! Become a new patient and get FREE teeth whitening fo r LIFE!

*Eligible for cavity free patients who complete any treatment requirements and maintain annual x-rays and biannual cleanings. We provide custom bleach trays and 1 tube of bleach per year. Upgrades available. Inquire for details.

IN-HOUSE WHITENING SPECIAL $399 For The Month Of January (limited appointments available)

Dr. Tiffany Kondoff

512.782.0821 CEDARPARKDENTAL.COM INFO@CEDARPARKDENTAL.COM 209 DENALI PASS STE B, CEDAR PARK, TX

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

New Homes from the $600s

CEDAR PARK NOW OPEN! Ronald Reagan & Whitestone Blvd

All one-story homes 3 bed/3 bath/office & 3 bed/2 bath/office Low HOA Low property taxes Lawn maintenance included Hidden in the heart of Cedar Park

JOIN TODAY!

FIRST MONTH FREE USING PROMO CODE: CEDARFMF DEAL ENDS FEBUARY 16TH

AshCreekHomes.com

512.270.1022

1700 Sparkswood Lane 78613

Disclaimer: @January 2024 Ash Creek Homes. All rights reserved. Information shown is representative of proposed Ash Creek Homes plans for Tanner Ranch at Cedar Park. Photos and renderings are strictly for illustrative purposes only. All information is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. Please see Ash Creek Homes sales associate for details and visit www.ashcreekhomes.com.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Kameryn Griesser Sierra Martin Katy McAfee Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia

Denise Seiler General Manager dseiler@ communityimpact.com

Joseph Veloz Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Publisher Travis Baker Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Art Production Manager Haley Grace

Claire Shoop Editor cshoop@ communityimpact.com

Melissa Romero Account Executive mromero@ communityimpact.com

Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

Proudly printed by

16225 Impact Way Pflugerville, TX 78660 • 512-989-6808 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases llhnews@communityimpact.com Advertising llhads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

communityimpact.com

@communityimpactnews

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Impacts

• Opened Dec. 14 • 13920 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. 201, Leander • www.jamba.com; www.auntieannes.com 4 ISI Elite Training Owner Charles Yeager’s new facility provides 50-minute workouts for all fitness levels. • Opened Dec. 1 • 14105 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. 101, Cedar Park • www.isielitetraining.com 5 Tomlinson’s Feed The Austin-based store carries food, treats, toys, supplements and supplies for cats and dogs. • Opened Dec. 14 • 19380 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. 410, Leander • www.tomlinsons.com 6 Wingstop The restaurant serves bone-in and boneless wings, chicken sandwiches, tenders and sides. • Opened Nov. 13 • 19372 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. 340, Leander • www.wingstop.com 7 European Wax Center The national chain offers full-body hair removal and waxing services for men and women. • Opened Nov. 6 • 19372 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. 320, Leander • www.waxcenter.com 8 Rock Liquor A liquor store selling beer, wine, liquor and more opened in northern Leander. The shop plans to sell cigars in the future. • Opened in late December • 3651 US 183, Ste. 160, Leander • 512-528-5084

8 1

Leander

6 7 14

183A TOLL

Cedar Park

3 12

NAMELESS RD.

183

LINDERMAN LN.

16 19

MEDICAL PKWY.

VISTA RIDGE BLVD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Cedar Park & Leander

45 TOLL LAKELINE MALL DR. 3 Jamba and Auntie Anne’s The dual-brand location carries pretzels, lemonade, smoothies, juices, bowls and bites. 2 Planet Fitness The new gym offers fitness equipment, tanning beds, massage chairs and more. • Opened in early January • 13530 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. C-100, Cedar Park • www.planetfitness.com

Now open

1 Wayback Burgers The fast-casual chain’s menu includes burgers, milkshakes, chicken tenders and more. • Opened Nov. 15 • 3651 US 183, Ste. 195, Leander • www.waybackburgers.com

Coming soon

9 Mojo Coffee The family-owned shop roasts its beans and makes all

620

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

frappes in-house. • Opening in April • 2875 W. Whitestone Blvd., Ste. 100, Cedar Park • www.mojodrivethru.com 10 Shady Brew Garden The food truck park will offer beer, wine and coffee, with a covered patio, playscape and dog park. • Opening in the spring • 303 W. Broade St., Leander • Instagram: @ShadyBrewGarden 11 Wahoo’s Fish Taco Wahoo’s will offer a broad menu of food options, such as tacos, burritos, salads, and plates with ceviche and cauliflower rice. • Opening in the summer • 204 W. Broade St., Leander • www.wahoos.com 12 Rabbit Hole Neighborhood Bar The opening of the second Rabbit Hole location in Leander has been pushed back due to permitting delays. • Opening in March • 13920 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. 202, Leander • www.rabbitholetx.com

Now open

15 Nameless Saloon The food truck park and bar owned by Jesse Fortney serves craft drinks and beer, and has a stage for live music. As of late December, the establishment had three food trucks, including Casita Ruby, Topp Dawg and Wylie's. Fortney said he is looking at adding a healthier option, barbecue and Mediterranean to the mix, with the goal of having at least six food trucks. • Opened Nov. 10 • 23296 Nameless Road, Leander • Facebook: Nameless Saloon

18 Dog Haus Biergarten Run by franchisees Mike and Heather Durbin, the beer garden serves a variety of gourmet hot dogs, sausages and burgers on Hawaiian sweet rolls, plus chicken, breakfast burritos and plant-based meats. The space also includes a dog-friendly patio as well as a full bar that has 24 beers on tap and signature cocktails. • Opened Dec. 15 • 3101 E. Whitestone Blvd., Bldg. F, Cedar Park • www.doghaus.com

Relocations

Austin Eastciders Michigan-based Blake’s Beverage Company acquired the Austin-based cider producer in November; however, those in charge said no changes are in the works to the

• 19386 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Leander • www.7brew.com

13 Whitestone Brewery The taproom is moving from its current location at 601 E. Whitestone Blvd., Ste. 500, Bldg. 5, to the old Lucy’s Fried Chicken, where it will partner with 600 Degrees Pizza. • Relocating in mid-March • 401 E. Whitestone Blvd., Ste. A-108, Cedar Park • www.whitestonebrewery.com

16 Cedar Park Regional Medical Center Sean C. Tinney will start as the hospital’s next CEO on Jan. 22, according to a Dec. 19 announcement. • 1401 Medical Parkway, Cedar Park • www.cedarparkregional.com 17 La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Austin-Cedar Park The pet-friendly hotel’s renovations included guest rooms, fitness and business centers, and more. • 1010 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park • www.wyndhamhotels.com

cidery’s brand or products. • www.austineastciders.com

Closings

19 Church’s Texas Chicken The fast-food fried chicken restaurant on East Whitestone Boulevard is now closed. • Closed in late 2023 • 1601 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park • www.churchs.com

In the news

14 7 Brew Coffee The drive-thru coffee chain’s upcoming location is set to be completed by July, according to a project registration with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

My doctors collaborate, and that makes my life easier.

~ NANCY Ascension Seton patient and new mom

Get care from doctors who understand you

When all your doctors are on the same team, working with you and for you, it makes getting all the care you need all that much easier. At Ascension Seton, your doctors connect you to the care that’s right for you — everything from well-woman visits and mammograms, to surgical care and heart care, to vaccinations for children and families and more. Choose a day and time that works for you.

Schedule care now at ascension.org/SetonWomens

Hear more from Nancy and others:

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Impacts

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Expansions

183

200

3405

258

NORTH FORK SAN GABRIEL RIVER

214

1869

332

1869

213

183

Liberty Hill

279

4 Divine Savior Academy The private Christian school will begin a high school program at its Santa Rita Ranch campus. The pre-K through eighth grade school will add ninth grade for the 2024-25 school year and continue to add one grade level until 2027-28. In a news release, school officials said the decision was driven by a desire to better serve the community, and maintain continuity for students currently at the school. • Expanding in August • 23857 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Liberty Hill • www.divinesavioracademy.com

Liberty Hill

Coming soon

2 Dog Wash Spa The pet-centered business will offer full grooming packages, nail trimming, paw care, boarding and self- wash services. • Opening in mid-January

Now open

5 Pizza Hut The chain’s originally planned December opening was delayed, according to a company representative. The business offers pizza, pasta, wings, cheese sticks and

1 Happy Hour The locally owned neighborhood bar serves cocktails, beers, drafts and cold brew, General Manager Morgan Holden said. • Opened Jan. 16 • 719 US 183, Ste. C-320, Liberty Hill • Facebook: Happy Hour RP Solar Services The company—owned by Georgetown resident Brandon Glenn—specializes in commercial and residential solar panel cleaning and post-storm inspections. The home- based business serves the greater Austin area. • Opened Nov. 13 • www.rpsolarservices.com

• 14370 Hwy. 29, Ste. 4, Liberty Hill • www.facebook.com/dogwashspa

salads as well as desserts. • Opening in March or April • 13900 W. Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill • www.pizzahut.com

3 Freedom Libations Owned by Dana and Daniel Conja, the store will sell liquor, wine, beer, mixers, snacks, gift baskets, glassware, tobacco products and lottery tickets. • Opening in February • 15050 W. Hwy. 29, Ste. 180, Liberty Hill • www.freedomlibations.com

6 Liberty Hill Convenience Store & Gas Station

Construction on the 5,595 square foot space is set to begin in March and finish March 2025, according to the project’s architect, Armagan Kartaltepe II. • Opening in March 2025 • Southwest corner of N. Hwy. 183 and FM 3405

One-Stop Shop for ALL Your Propane Needs

- Residential & Commercial Propane Sales - Service & Installation - Locally owned and operated since 1961

14251 W. Hwy. 29, Liberty Hill | 512-259-4710

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Government

WilCo plans for new county headquarters An interlocal agreement approved Dec. 12 between the city of Georgetown and Williamson County outlines plans for the development of the new county headquarters along Southwestern Boulevard and SE Inner Loop. The gist The agreement described the county’s com- mitments for the design and construction of infrastructure related to the project on the roughly 170-acre tract of land southeast of downtown Georgetown—the current home of county services. Williamson County has vouched for a $3 million contribution for the planning, design and right- of-way acquisition phases of the SE Inner Loop project, according to county documents. The details Plans for the new headquarters indicate a

County park sees lighting upgrades

1460

Officials celebrated the completion of $1.4 million in lighting improvements for the sports fields and courts at Southwest Wil- liamson County Regional Park in December. What you need to know Funded through Williamson County’s fiscal year 2022-23 capital improvement budget, the project included upgrading the existing sports fields and courts with LED lights to improve visibility, increase energy savings and reduce light pollution, county officials said. Though the total cost savings is yet to be determined, the new low-wattage light fixtures are estimated to save 55% in energy usage, which in turn will lower the overall usage bill for park maintenance, Williamson County Parks Director Russell Fishbeck said.

three-story building with parking circling the structure. The county anticipates breaking ground on infrastructure in early 2024. The building will house a tax assessor collector office—which will have a drive-thru—county clerk, county judge’s office, Commissioners Court courtroom, budget office, public affairs and county auditor, staff said. Williamson County Commissioners Court previously approved plans for the relocation of county services in February, allotting $90 million for a new administration building.

SHOP AT DUVALLS FOR ALL OF YOUR UPCOMING VALENTINES EVENTS Children ' s Clothing Boutique

109 S.HIGHWAY 183 | LEANDER,TX 78641 | DUVALLSBOUTIQUE.COM | 737-287-5758 BOYS AND GIRLS CLOTHING • SHIPS ALL OVER THE U.S PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA CRIST. *CLOTHING SEEN ON MODELS ARE SOLD IN STORE

you need to know about your community in 5 MINUTES

Morning Impact to your inbox. COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM�NEWSLETTER

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY MCLEOD & ZACHARIA WASHINGTON

Cedar Park splash pad to be rebuilt by summer The splash pad at Brushy Creek Lake Park will now undergo a full renovation and small expan- sion following unanimous approval by Cedar Park City Council on Dec. 21. The backstory Brushy Creek Lake Park’s splash pad is being reconstructed due to its old age and condition, Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Mike DeVito said at the meeting. City staff has recommended the existing splash pad be demolished and rebuilt with new, modern- ized equipment. A closer look The renovated splash pad will have a nature- based theme, DeVito said, including related features such as trees, rocks and animal figurines. The reconstruction of the splash pad is

“Over the last two decades, the technology for splash pads has just really changed a lot, so it is time to modernize." MIKE DEVITO, CEDAR PARK PARKS AND RECREATION ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

KAUFFMAN LP.

RONALD REAGAN BLVD.

VIA DE SIENNA BLVD.

BAR W RANCH BLVD.

Stakeholders OK new Leander traffic signal After months of discussion, Leander City Council, Liberty Hill ISD and Williamson County Commissioners Court approved the installation of a new traffic signal along Ronald Reagan Boulevard. The cost The cost of the $900,000 traffic light will be split evenly between the three entities, Leander Executive Director of Infrastructure Dan Grimsbo said.

being completed in conjunction with the new playground project at Brushy Creek Lake Park, according to the city. Costing about $1.1 million, the splash pad proj- ect will be funded through the city’s 4B Commu- nity Development Corporation, officials said. Looking ahead DeVito said both the playground project and reconstruction of the splash pad are projected to be completed in late spring or early summer, contingent upon the weather.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE Mobility Authority

Navigating the tolling landscape can be complicated. We’re the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority, and we’re here to help you understand important pieces of the tolling puzzle, like what we do and how your toll bill works.

The Mobility Authority is not the only toll operator

Late payment fees do apply

The Mobility Authority is not TxTag

We accept a variety of electronic tags

Original Owner

New Owner

There’s a reason you might get a bill in the mail even if you have an electronic tag

There are payment options everywhere

Remove the license plates and electronic tag from vehicle to avoid future charges.

When selling your vehicle, remove the vehicle from your electronic tag account. If you’ve sold your vehicle, fill out a Vehicle Transfer Notification and submit it with the required documentation to the DMV. You may receive a toll bill in the mail until the new owner registers the car. If you receive a Pay By Mail bill, please contact us so that you won’t be held responsible.

Keep your electronic tag account in good standing

We use your address on file with the Texas DMV for bills

Learn what to do when you sell your car

Using the Pay By Mail program costs you more

WE’RE ALWAYS HERE TO HELP

To learn more fast facts about paying your Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority toll bill, visit us at MobilityAuthority.com/tolling101.

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Thank You To the 350 Follow The Star Cast & Crew members and our sponsors:

Air1 Worship Now American Senior Benefits Austin Digital Printing Austin Event Lighting Bush’s Chicken! Cedar Park Cedar Park Vision Chick-fil-A Cedar Park

KVET Austin 98.1 FM KXAN NASA Searchlights Numbers Keepers, Inc. Rock-n-Roll Rental Austin Southern Tire Mart Strategic Investment Management Strategies For Success Super Cheap Signs The CW Austin TRP Infrastructure Services United Rentals And all of the volunteers who have worked tirelessly bring Follow The Star to life.

Central Texas Window Cleaning Community Impact Newspaper Families of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Firehouse Subs Generous Java Horizon Printing & Mailing Joy 512 Christian Worship Music – Joy512.com KBVO Kenfield Golf Carts KLBJ News Radio 590 AM KLOVE 105.9

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 700 W. Whitestone Boulevard, Cedar Park GSTX.ORG Join Us December 5,6,7 for Follow The Star 2024

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY ZACHARIA WASHINGTON

Rezoning sought for more residential space near Leander ISD schools Developers are looking to rezone portions of a 289-acre tract of land in eastern Leander from multiuse corridor to neighborhood residential with the goal of building single-family homes. The overview LJA Engineering—the representatives of proposed development Burleson Ranch—came to Leander City Council on Nov. 16 to seek feedback on a Comprehensive Plan amendment that would allow the proposed site to be zoned as all neighborhood residential. As of now, the proposed site is zoned as mostly neighborhood residential with two sections zoned as multiuse corridor and one as commercial—which each open the door for commercial development on

Liberty Hill seeks dark sky designation Ocials and supporters in Liberty Hill are on a journey to obtain a dark sky community designation and keep the stars visible. The gist A dark sky community is a “municipality that has shown dedication to the preser- vation of the night sky,” according to the International Dark-Sky Association. Liberty Hill residents wanted to reduce light pollu- tion and maintain the rural feel of the area, Planning Technician Shelby Claridge said. The city is now stepping into some of the longest parts of the application process with sky brightness measurements underway and lighting audits just around the corner. Ocials are hoping to submit the applica- tion by January 2025. The city could have a designation by June or July 2025.

Current zoning

Akin Elementary School

Stiles Middle School

MULTIUSE CORRIDOR SOUTHEAST

MULTIUSE CORRIDOR NORTHEAST

BULL NETTLE DR.

RESIDENTIAL

SANDBUR LN.

COMMERCIAL

SOURCE: CITY OF LEANDERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

the tract. The multiuse sections are being consid- ered for rezoning. What’s next? The majority of council agreed to support rezoning what the city calls the northeast portion to neighborhood residential, while the southeast section would remain as multiuse. A nal decision has not been made as of press time.

By your side...each step of the journey. Every Detail Remembered... Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Proudly serving our community since 2012 with Pre-Arrangement, Burial and Cremation Services.

1200 S. Bagdad Rd., Leander, TX 78641 512-260-8800 (24/7) www.prepaidfunerals.texas.gov

SECURITY CHILD SAFETY PET CONTAINMENT ENHANCE CURB APPEAL

$150 OFF Iron Fence Installation 100 linear feet minimum

SERVING CENTRAL TEXAS FOR OVER 30 YEARS TRUSTED • QUALITY • LOCAL • VALUE

PRIVACY SECURITY CHILD SAFETY PET CONTAINMENT ENHANCE CURB APPEAL 512-FENCING

IRON • CHAINLINK MASONRY • WOOD 25 YEARS OF SERVICE TRUSTED QUALITY

LOCAL VALUE WWW.NWIRON.COM 512-FENCING • WWW.NWIRON.COM PRIVACY • SECURITY • CHILD SAFETY PET CONTAINMENT • ENHANCE CURB APPEAL

LEANDER LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Education

LHISD officials discuss block scheduling costs Liberty Hill ISD may not be able to afford imple- menting a new high school bell schedule despite it receiving widespread support from teachers, district officials said at a Dec. 18 meeting. The district will need to hold a voter-approval tax rate election, or VATRE, in the near future as it is already facing mounting expenses, LHISD Chief Financial Officer Rosanna Guerrero said. Two-minute impact Guerrero said the district could not sustain an A/B block schedule due to a lack of funding. The district is on track to deplete its fund balance by the 2025-26 school year with a $15.4 million budget deficit expected that year, she said. Staffing costs are expected to increase with three new campuses opening in 2026, and adopt- ing the new bell schedule could divert funding away from compensation increases, she said.

Leander ISD rejects using chaplains for mental health care The Leander ISD board of trustees voted against employing or accepting chaplains as volunteers “to provide support, services and programs for students” at a Nov. 30 meeting, according to the approved resolution. The district will continue providing counseling services through certified school counselors and credentialed mental health specialists, the resolution states. The overview The decision comes in light of a new state law allowing chaplains to serve in roles sim- ilar to school counselors and provide mental health services. The law required school districts to vote whether to employ chaplains or allow them to volunteer by March.

Bell schedule options A/B block schedule • Four 100-minute classes daily • Cost an additional $1.3 million in 2024-25 • Require 21 more teachers Seven period schedule • Seven 56-minute classes daily • Cost an additional $200,000 in 2024-25 • Require 3 more teachers

Guerrero said it is “undeniable” the district will need to hold a VATRE even if it does not adopt A/B block scheduling. Although the district has been financially responsible, state funding has not been sufficient to cover the district’s growth, she said. A VATRE would allow the district to adopt a higher tax rate than otherwise authorized by the state. Looking ahead The board asked district officials to provide additional information on schedule options, class sizes and holding a VATRE.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Legacy Ranch High School Principal Mark Koller is preparing for the school’s opening by meeting with students, hiring sta, and selecting instructional materials and furniture.

PHOTOS BY CHLOE YOUNGCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Principal Mark Koller shares plans for Legacy Ranch High School Former Leander ISD Principal Mark Koller started as the principal for Legacy Ranch High School in November. He will lead Liberty Hill ISD through the opening of its second high school, which will serve ninth graders in August at the site of Middle School No. 3. The ocial high school campus will open in 2026. Koller spoke with Community Impact about his plans for Legacy Ranch High School. This inter- view has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com.

What attracted you to Liberty Hill ISD? I was in Leander for 17 years and in the feeder pattern that is directly south of Liberty Hill. I had always looked and watched Liberty Hill grow from afar. Knowing that it was going to two high schools, meeting Mr. [Steven] Snell and the team, it just got really exciting [and I wanted] to be a part of what’s happening here in Liberty Hill. What are some of your goals for Legacy Ranch High School? Our goal is to look to continue the great traditions that are here in Liberty Hill ISD and Liberty Hill High School. Another thing is really making sure that we’re cutting a pathway for success for our students. We want our students to be running towards their senior year and where they’re going beyond that, and so getting them excited about what is post-secondary.

What will you be doing in your new role before the school opens? [No. 1] is getting to know the students, because we are students rst, and I think that’s important. [I’m] going to Santa Rita Middle School and really getting to know the [students]. I want to put their minds at ease and get them excited about what’s about to happen. What do you think it means for the community to open another high school? It’s a pretty big deal. I think understanding that it is a big deal is important. What brought me here was Friday night lights and ... what this town does on a Friday night and how it comes together. So to sit back and now divide the town and say, “OK, you live in this area, and now you have new traditions and new systems,” that’s hard because everything’s panthers; everything’s purple and gold.

LEANDER LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Transportation

BY ZACHARIA WASHINGTON

Leander council closes CR 177 low-water crossing After months of discussion, community outreach and data collection, Leander ocials decided Dec. 7 to close the low-water crossing portion of CR 177. The overview The city began closing the road and updating the signage on Dec. 18, and the project was completed by Dec. 20. Public Works Director Gina Ellison said it was estimated to cost the city $1,250. Quote of note “I remember when Leander was a really small town, and I appreciate these nice little two-lane roads and the one-lane bridges—makes you feel like you’re still in a small community,” council member David McDonald said. “Unfortunately, our growth has exceeded our infrastructure—I know we’re just experiencing our growing pains. I’m in favor of this closure.”

Downtown turn lanes added in Liberty Hill Over the course of three days in Decem- ber, left-turn lanes were added at the intersection of Main Street and RM 1869 in order to improve the ow of trac. The background Project Manager James Herrera said at a Nov. 29 City Council meeting the part of the project involving widening the roadway occurred rst. In order to widen the road, on-street parking spaces on Main Street were removed. The improvements coincide with the recently-opened roundabout, located where Main Street, CR 279 and Munro Street meet. Following the completion of the turn lanes, Main Street looks like one continuous road- way from RM 1869 through the roundabout portion, city ocials said.

Due to its poor, narrow condition, Leander City Council voted to close the CR 177 low-water crossing over Brushy Creek permanently.

ZACHARIA WASHINGTONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

How we got here Over ve days this fall, city sta gathered trac data near the low-water crossing and the inter- section of CR 177 and Ronald Reagan Boulevard. Ocials said the data revealed with the existing, local trac in the area in addition to two planned developments nearby, the closure of the road would provide some relief. During an October meeting, Ellison cited instances of drivers cutting the gates when they were closed with the assumption that it was safe.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

MODEL GRAND OPENING

The

SAT | JAN 27 12pm – 2pm

Get ready to join us for the grand opening celebration of Lariat by Landsea Homes in Liberty Hill! Experience this amazing community, tour High Performance Homes, meet the builder and enjoy some Texan favorites. See y’all there!

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic programs for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Unmatched Academic Results Join us for an Open House! Monday, January 29, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Thursday, February 15, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and Tuesday, February 27, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Avery Ranch (PS–G8) (512) 341-8000 15101 Avery Ranch Boulevard, Austin Round Rock (PS–G1) (512) 255-8844 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock Spicewood Springs (PS–K) (512) 258-1299 13015 Pond Springs Road, Austin

SCAN TO RSVP

ONE- & TWO-STORY SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES 3 – 4 Bedrooms | 2 – 2.5 Baths 1,453 – 2,428 Sq. Ft. From the Mid $300,000s NOW SELLING Liberty Hill, TX

Now Open by Appointment Only GIVE US A CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION (512) 813-0721

Tour The Model Homes

Craft A Custom Cowboy Hat

Grub At The Chuck Wagon (Frito Pie) Longhorn photo op Enjoy Live Music Chance To Win A Full Rodeo Austin Experience

LandseaHomes.com/Lariat

© 2024 Landsea Homes US Corporation. LANDSEA® and LIVE IN YOUR ELEMENT® are federally registered trademarks of Landsea. Event festivities subject to change. Plans, pricing, product information, square footage, amenities and community/neighborhood information are subject to change without notice or obligation. Home shown may not represent actual homesites. Square footage is approximate. Some features and options shown may not be offered in your community. Please see the actual purchase agreement for additional information, disclosures and disclaimers relating to your home and its features. All rights reserved and strictly enforced. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. Please consult a Landsea Homes sales representative for details.

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Development

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Dallas Stars owner Tom Gaglardi has chosen Austin and Cedar Park for the first two projects under his newly launched development company Northland Living. A sister company of Northland Properties, Northland Living focuses on residential towers and mixed-use communities, according to a news release. The first project in the Austin area is a downtown residential condo tower planned on a 0.81-acre site just west of the Texas state Capitol. This will be followed by a mixed-use project in Cedar Park, which Northland Living purchased 40 acres for south of the H-E-B Center and east of the upcoming NFM development. New projects coming to area

Northland Living residential condo tower

What's next

Austin

Plans for the upcoming tower and mixed-use projects are still in the early stages, officials said. “We plan to delve deeply into local economic and demographic trends, then make a positive impact on the communities where we invest and develop,” President and COO Tony Kaleel said in the release. “Texas has always had an entrepreneurial mindset and grown in consistent ways. We look forward to making beneficial contributions.” TONY KALEEL, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OF NORTHLAND LIVING

Northland Living mixed-use project

Cedar Park

H-E-B CENTER

NFM development

183

183A TOLL

DISCOVERY BLVD.

SOURCE: NORTHLAND LIVING/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON & ZACHARIA WASHINGTON

Bryson’s next phase to include rental homes Construction on build-to-rent homes in Bryson, a master-planned community in Leander, is underway and is expected to reach completion by midsummer 2024. The big picture Located near the intersection of 183A and San Gabriel Parkway, the Bryson community has a total buildout of 1,176 single-family homes and will soon offer 155 build-to-rent homes. Construc- tion on the rental section began in spring 2023. The build-to-rent option allows people the opportunity to rent single-family homes within a master-planned community, said Kandis Rushing, director of marketing for Johnson Development. Starting in early 2024, the build-to-rent homes will be available for presale. As of mid-November, Rushing said the Bryson community still had 81 single-family homes left that are available to buy.

River Junction units underway on 183A River Junction, a 15-building apartment complex located off Talon Grasp Trail west of 183A Toll, is set to be completed in October 2024. Diving in deeper The leasing office and community clubhouse opened in early December 2023 with the first resident move-ins expected mid-January, representatives with the complex said. The apartment community is currently preleasing units. River Junction will have one-, two- and three-bedroom units with private balco- nies, energy-efficient appliances and some attached or detached garages. The commu- nity will also include a pool with cabanas, a dog park, private coworking spaces and a fitness center.

BRYSON

183

183A TOLL

A closer look Another element of Bryson’s master plan is Broadstone Bryson, a 306-unit apartment complex situated in front of the neighborhood, which was completed in spring 2023. Amenities include a fitness center and private office pods. The commercial component of Bryson is now under construction, Rushing said. No tenant announcements have been made and a timeline for development has not been confirmed. Rushing said by late 2024, single-family homes in Bryson will be sold out.

Construction on multifamily portion of Leander’s Crystal Village to finish this fall

financial officer at Koniag Real Estate. The QuikTrip under construction is expected to reach completion in early 2024. Also planned for the development is Southside Market & Barbeque and Culver’s, which are in the permitting process. Beeson said negotiations are underway with Sprouts Farmers Market, Texas Roadhouse, Star- bucks and Estância Brazilian Steakhouse as well.

An emerging apartment complex in Crystal Village is expected to reach completion in fall 2024, with work on the restaurant and retail components happening concurrently. Zooming in Called The Evergrove, the new apartment com- plex sits on 15 of Crystal Village’s 65 acres and will have just under 350 units, said Sharon Beeson, chief

183A TOLL

CRYSTAL VILLAGE

Celebrating 30 Years as Your Only Local Shutter Manufacturer

Mention this ad SAVE 10% Schedule a Free In-Home Consultation. 512-931-0400

3415 Williams Drive, #140, Georgetown • www.SouthernShuttersAustin.com

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Real estate

November 2022

November 2023

Residential market data

Liberty Hill’s 78642 ZIP code was the only ZIP code in the Liberty Hill, Leander and Cedar Park area that saw more home sales in November 2023 than in November 2022.

Number of homes sold

63 74

Total homes sold by price point

+17.46%

78642

November 2023

183

132 116

$900,000+

-12.12%

78641

$700,000-$899,999

183A TOLL

130 TOLL

52 49

-5.77%

78613

$500,000-$699,999

45 TOLL

$300,000-$499,999

122

620

7 7

78726

<$299,999

78642 78726

78641 78717

78613

13 11

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS 512-454-7636 WWW.ABOR.COM

-15.38%

78717

Average days on market

Median home sales price

2023

2022

+61.73%

+30%

-8.62%

$507,295

78642

-4.46%

$531,000

$463,250

78741

-6.49%

$495,383

$459,000

78613

-3.37%

$475,000

$679,000

78726

+5.27%

$645,000

$607,000

78717

+12.56%

$539,250

78642

78741

78613

+10.14%

-38.89%

Closings by city

New listings by city

November

2022

2023

November

2022

2023

Cedar Park

Leander

Liberty Hill

78726

78717

From the cover

Leander ISD begins creation of district police force

The approach

The overview

Building its own police department will give LISD the greatest control over how it hires and trains armed officers, said Bryan Miller, executive director of student support. Staffing more school resource officers from local police departments—the method the district currently uses to have officers at its high school campuses and Leander Middle School—was not an option as those agencies are short staffed, he said. Representatives with Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Cedar Park Police Department and Leander Police Department confirmed they are experiencing officer shortages. “Very quickly, [we realized] there was no way they could create that kind of capacity through our partnership, so we had to explore other avenues,” Superintendent Bruce Gearing said. The district will assign school marshals to ele- mentary campuses as they have less authority than commissioned peace officers but still hold a license to carry, Miller said. Unlike police officers, school marshals will be able to contribute to administrative work, such as emergency response protocols or monitoring recess, he said.

LISD parent Brad Ferguson said he is concerned about young students being disciplined by armed guards instead of educators. Neither officers nor school marshals will be the first to respond to school discipline concerns but may play a supportive role through talking with students or reminding them to follow campus rules, Miller said. The district’s disciplinary response will be guided by its code of conduct while police officers will address criminal ramifications, he said. Police officers and school marshals will report to a chief of police while the chief will report to the superintendent in accordance with state law. Both school marshals and officers will receive training on child development and interacting with students while marshals will partake in professional training and learning along with teachers, he said. The speed at which the department is developed largely depends on the district’s ability to hire and train applicants, Miller said. “You’ve got 1,200-plus districts competing for licensed police officers to join departments and have the correct training, along with marshals,” Miller said.

Leander ISD officials are in the initial stages of building a district police force after the board of trustees approved the department’s creation and first round of funding Nov. 30. The district amended this fiscal year’s budget by $1.1 million to hire some staff and cover costs for training, insurance, and equipment. With a plan to hire 67 total officers, the entire department is expected to take multiple years and millions of dollars to create, officials said. HB 3 author Rep. Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, said the bill’s armed officer requirement aims to increase school security and “reduce confusion in the midst of a crisis,” such as an active shooter situation. With over 42,000 students across 48 campuses, LISD has struggled to comply with the law. District officials said the state has not provided enough funding to implement HB 3.

Department breakdown

35 police officers for middle and high schools

Officer responsibilities

67 total officers

32 school marshals for elementary and alternative schools

• Primary role to respond to an active threat School marshals • 80 hours of training and psychological exam • Arrests only to prevent imminent bodily harm • May complete administrative safety and security tasks, including developing response protocols, hosting trainings and conducting door audits

Police officers • Primary role to address criminal activity • 1,400 hours or eight to nine months of training, including the School-Based Law Enforcement Officer Proficiency Certificate • Commissioned peace officer with full arrest and investigation powers • Cannot be assigned to address administrative tasks or disciplinary issues

Around $4.8 million for recurring yearly salary costs Around $2.8 million for start-up equipment and training costs

SOURCE: LEANDER ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCES: LEANDER ISD, TEXAS COMMISSION ON LAW ENFORCEMENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

FREE EVALUATIONS SATURDAY’S @ 12:30PM

CHECK OUT OUR SPRING BREAK PROGRAMS

WHY WATERLOO? • SAFETY! Chlorinated/UV Filter Pools • Low Student: Instructor Ratio • Curriculum that gets results! • Trained Instructors...we do this year round PROGRAMS AT WATERLOO • Swim Lessons • Private Lessons

• Adult Lessons / Masters • Lap Swimming • Swim Team (#3 Age Group Team in Texas)

• Kid and Teen Fitness • Summer League Prep

12332 FM 620 NORTH � AUSTIN � NEAR HWY 183 AND 45 TOLLROAD � WATERLOOSWIMMING.COM

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CHLOE YOUNG

The cost

Looking forward

District officials are now working on an application to create the department with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. As a part of that process, the district will need to name a police chief, hire an administrative assistant and adopt a board policy outlining how the department will be structured, Miller said. Officials are hoping to have the application submitted in the spring and receive approval in the summer. Once approved, the district can officially hire police officers with the goal of having some officers and school marshals on campuses by fall. LISD will continue its school resource officer partnerships with local police departments until those officers are no longer needed, Miller said. “While there is a potential cheaper option out there, sometimes you get what you pay for,” Miller said. “We want to be sure that we are providing the ... best people for our campuses.” Implementation timeline The district hopes to have next steps completed by the following tentative dates, Miller said. Late January: Name police chief and adopt board policy Spring: Submit TCOLE application Summer: Receive TCOLE decision August: Assuming TCOLE approval, assign officers/school marshals to some campuses

cut expenses as the majority goes to staff salaries. “If the state does not kick in additional funding, then we’re going to have to make some very difficult choices about what we stop doing in order to make this mandate happen,” Gearing said. However, some members of the community have expressed concerns that the district should have chosen a less costly option to arm its cam- puses, such as arming teachers through a school guardian program.

In fiscal year 2023-24, the district transferred $1.1 million out of its fund balance to begin the police department, Gearing said. While HB 3 allocates districts $10 per student and $15,000 per campus to meet its requirements, the $1.1 million from the bill in state funding has already been allocated for the district’s existing school resource officers, Miller said. School board President Gloria Gonzales-Dhola- kia said there’s nowhere in the district’s budget to

Costs versus funding under HB 3

Training: $10,000 Insurance (annually): $40,000 Administrative assistant: $54,903.50 Equipment: $84,000 Assistant chief: $126,906.22

State funding Leander ISD expenses

$1.14M School safety allotment

Police chief: $156,019.56 10 marshals: $631,307.50

Local SROs and drug dogs $1.17M

$1.1M

Phase 1 of police department

SOURCES: LEANDER ISD, TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

In their own words

“I think with smaller classrooms and more school counselors, we’d be able to do more on our campuses with

“It’s going to be our job to make sure ... the presence of those ocers is really comforting as opposed to intimidating.” BRUCE GEARING, LEANDER ISD SUPERINTENDENT

school safety, but that’s not one of our choices.” GLORIA GONZALES- DHOLAKIA, LEANDER ISD SCHOOL BOARD PRESIDENT

SOURCE: LEANDER ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

LEANDER - LIBERTY HILL EDITION

Events

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & KAMERYN GRIESSER

• Feb. 16, 3-7 p.m. • Free (admission) • Premier Athletic Complex, 8220 183A Toll, Leander • www.leandercc.org Boshonto Ponchomi & Saraswati Puja 2024 The festival hosted by the Bandhan Cultural Association of Greater Austin pays homage to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, wisdom and the arts. The day will include music, dance and spoken word performances. • Feb. 17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • $15 (age 10 and younger, seniors, and students); $25 (adults) • Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church, • 3315 El Salido Parkway, Cedar Park • www.bandhanaustin.org

Boutique allows customers to make friends over cocktails, enter a free giveaway and shop. • Feb. 8, 4:30-6:30 p.m. • Free (admission) • 660 S. Bagdad Road, Ste. 330, Leander • www.turquoisepeacockboutique.com ‘Annie Jr.’ Shine On Performing Arts will hold multiple performances of the children’s musical. • Feb. 9-18, various times • $15 (online), $20 (at the door) • Central Leander Church, 1407 Raider Way, Leander • www.shineonperformingarts.org Father-Daughter Dance The dance will feature snacks, a DJ set and photo booth opportunities.

January

February

Teen Chess Open Play Students in grades 6-12 can learn the basics of chess or compete with others. Chess sets are provided. • Jan. 22, 5-7 p.m. • Free (admission) • Leander Public Library, 1011 S. Bagdad Road, Leander • www.leandertx.gov/library Pie Day Potluck Leander Active Adults will host a pie-themed potluck for

The United States Navy Concert Band 2024 National Tour The U.S. Navy’s wind ensemble will perform a range of musical selections, including classic orchestral, patriotic, marches and more at this family-friendly concert. • Feb. 4, 5-6:30 p.m. • Free • Leander ISD South Performing Arts Center, • 2150 Cypress Creek Road, Cedar Park • www.navyband.navy.mil Teddy Bear Train Benefiting the Center for Child Protection, the Austin Steam Train Association will host a three-hour, 44-mile vintage train ride departing from the Cedar Park Depot. Riders are encouraged to wear costumes and bring stuffed bears. • Feb. 4, 2-5 p.m. • $40-$55 (age 14 and older), free with a new stuffed animal donation (age 13 and younger) • 401 E. Whitestone Blvd., Ste. C-100, Cedar Park • www.austinsteamtrain.org Galentine’s Party at the Peacock The Valentines-themed event at Turquoise Peacock

people ages 55 and up. • Jan. 23, noon-1 p.m. • Free (admission) • Leander Activity Center, 11880 Hero Way W., Ste. 600, Leander • www.leandertx.gov

Leander Educational Excellence Foundation Annual Gala The “Evening in the Emerald City” fundraising event will include a dinner, silent auctions, student speakers and a cocktail reception to benefit Leander ISD. Guests are encouraged to dress to this year’s theme representing the yellow-brick road, ruby slippers and the Emerald City. • Jan. 27, 6 p.m. • $175 (individual), $1,600 (table of 10) • The Crossover, 1717 Scottsdale Drive, Leander • www.leeftx.org

Harlem Globetrotters 2024 World Tour The world-famous basketball team will play against the Washington Generals while showcasing their talents and tricks in a family-friendly show. • Feb. 4, 2 p.m. (doors), 3 p.m. (game) • $37 and up • H-E-B Center, 2100 Ave. of the Stars, Cedar Park • www.harlemglobetrotters.com

Hill Country Community Ministries Mardi Gras Bash

• Feb. 10, time TBD • Ticket price TBD • 11880 Hero Way W., Ste. 600, Leander • www.leandertx.gov

Benefiting the nonprofit’s mission of supporting southwest Williamson and northwest Travis county residents through challenging times, the event will include jazz music, dancing, Cajun food and king cake. • Feb. 17, 5:30-10:30 p.m. • $150 (individual) • Courtyard by Marriott Austin-Pflugerville, 16100 Impact Way, Pflugerville • www.hccm.org

Santa Rita Ranch Local Business Expo 2024 Participants have the opportunity to connect with local business owners while enjoying live music, giveaways and food trucks. • Jan. 27, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • 175 Elizabeth Park Blvd., Liberty Hill • www.santaritaranchaustin.com

Living Leander Career & Community Expo Attendees will be able to learn about different careers and developments in the city at the event, which will showcase local service providers, businesses, food trucks and performances.

HYMEADOW 12611 Hymeadow (512) 506-8401

NORTH 620 10601 N FM 620 (512) 506-8316

CEDAR PARK 13530 Ronald Reagan Blvd (512) 986-7681

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24-25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48

communityimpact.com