Government
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & SHANNON WEST
Kyle area residents could see 56% utility bill rise The average Kyle resident living within the city and its extraterritorial jurisdiction could see an increase in their utility bill—which includes water and wastewater charges. What’s happening Kyle City Council adopted a $603.6 million budget for fiscal year 2025-26 at the Sept. 16 meeting, which included increases to city utility rates starting Oct. 1. How we got here In 2024, Raftelis—an Austin-based government and utility consultant company—completed its Water and Wastewater Utility Cost of Service Rate Study, which found that previous rates were “insuf- ficient” to maintain those services. Diving in deeper Rachel Sonnier, a spokesperson for the city, said
vvw the comprehensive and strategic plans, noting that they work together to support long-term decision making for the city’s future. During a joint meeting of the Buda City Council and Planning and Zoning Com- mission held on Oct. 8, Buda Development Services Director Angela Kennedy presented an overview of the goals and strategies outlined in the 2024 Our Buda, Our Future Comprehensive Plan, alongside the city council’s 2025-40 Strategic Plan priorities. What it means Kennedy presented priorities outlined in City of Buda shares long-term vision Buda officials are working to ensure plans are in place to support the city’s growth. In a nutshell
City of Kyle utility rate increases
Within city limits
Monthly bill
Existing New Increase
Water
$76.73 $92.07 $15.35 $45.36 $2.72 $48.08 $122.08 $18.07 $140.15
Wastewater
Total
Extraterritorial jurisdictions
Monthly bill
Existing New Increase
Water
$92.77 $164.04 $71.27 $74.90 $97.47 $22.57 $167.67 $261.51 $93.84
Wastewater
Total
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
rates will increase for residents within the city limits and extraterritorial jurisdictions, or ETJs; however, those outside the city limits will see higher rate increases because serving these areas requires longer pipelines, more pump stations and additional infrastructure.
Citywide survey will shape future of San Marcos The city of San Marcos is asking for community input to better understand what matters most to the community and to inform decisions about housing, transportation, education, recreation, civic participation and more, according to a news release from the city. What’s next
Get involved
San Marcos residents have two options to participate in the survey, including:
A mail-in survey: A random selection of households received a survey by mail, which can be returned by prepaid mail.
Participants have until Nov. 10 to complete the survey. The city said in a statement the responses will be compiled into a comprehensive report, which will be available online and presented in public meetings by December.
An online survey: Beginning Oct. 27, all residents can share feedback online.
SOURCE: CITY OF SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
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