Northeast San Antonio Metrocom | November 2025

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Northeast San Antonio Metrocom Edition VOLUME 5, ISSUE 2 NOV. 12DEC. 11, 2025

Utility district approves plan to secure water resources

INSIDE

Also in this issue

Impacts

Page 4

Check out a new beauty salon in Live Oak

Development

Page 10

Read about an aordable housing project in Schertz

The Green Valley Special Utility District, a key water provider for customers in the area, is seeking to upgrade its infrastructure through its rst-ever adopted strategic plan. (Courtesy Green Valley Special Utility District)

Nonprot

Page 18

Volunteer with 15 Northeast San Antonio nonprots

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 Andrew Creelman Parks Kugle

Thomas Leer Ethan Thomas Jarrett Whitener Graphic Designers Nic Delgadillo Alissa Foss Laura Patino Chelsea Peters Managing Editor Sierra Martin Senior Product Manager Breanna Flores Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez

Kayla Brooks General Manager

Amira Van Leeuwen Editor

Heather Demere San Antonio Market President

Correction: Volume 5, Issue 1, Page 9 Bexar County Propositions A and B were updated to provide additional ballot language and clarify that if approved, the county hotel occupancy tax would increase from 1.75% to a maximum rate of 2%. The maximum hotel occupancy rate imposed from all sources in Bexar County would be 17% of the price paid for a room in a hotel, according to Bexar County.

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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

Impacts

4 A Chicago Bite The Chicago-themed restaurant serves hot dogs, fried catfish, wings, burgers and pizza puffs. • Opened Sept. 24

Garden Ridge

• 820 Main St., Schertz • www.achicagobite.com

482

3009

5 Bella Donna & Co. The full-service beauty salon— owned by Christina Lichtenberg—offers manicures, pedicures and facials. • Opened Oct. 15

Selma

1103

• 8328 Pat Booker Road, Live Oak • www.belladonnacompany.com

1604

CIBOLO VALLEY DR.

6 The Little Gym The gymnastics studio—owned by franchisee Samir Patel—offers lessons for children, from tumbling to elementary movements. • Opened Oct. 18 • 6032 FM 3009, Ste. 100, Schertz • www.thelittlegym.com/texas-schertz 7 Panera Bread The fast-casual restaurant serves sandwiches, soups and salads, along with drinks like signature teas and lemonades. • Opened Oct. 20 • 18406 I-35 N., Ste. 700, Schertz • www.panerabread.com 8 DICK’s House of Sport The new 100,000-square-foot store has interactive recreational activities such as a rock climbing wall, golf simulators and batting cages. • Opened Oct. 24 • 4100 IKEA-RBFCU Parkway, Live Oak • www.dickssportinggoods.com 9 Bad and Boozie Veteran-owned by Fred Hall and Oliver Mercado, the bar sells daiquiris, margaritas, cocktails, mixed drinks, micheladas and lemonades. • Opened Oct. 25 • 1310 Pat Booker Road, Universal City • Instagram: badandboozie210

IKEA-RBFCU PKWY.

Cibolo

1518 Universal City

N. MAIN ST.

MAIN ST.

MEEK ST.

S. MAIN ST.

SHIN OAK DR.

W. SCHAEFER RD.

Live Oak

Schertz

1976

1518

offering traditional dishes such as orange chicken, General Tso’s chicken, a variety of dumplings and more. • Opened Oct. 26 • 110 Meek St., Cibolo • Facebook: Kowloon Kitchen 3 Skip’s Beer Wine & Liquor The store sells liquor such as vodka, tequila, rum, brandy, gin, whiskey and mezcal, along with a selection 10

Now open

1604

1 Warehouse Cards Locally owned by Walter Thames, the shop offers a collection of sports cards, memorabilia and collectibles from brands like Star Wars and Marvel Comics. • Opened Aug. 9 • 21586 I-35 N. frontage road, Ste. 105, Schertz • www.warehousecards.com 2 Kowloon W. Kitchen This Cantonese-style restaurant reopened after 4 years,

of wine and beer. • Opened Sept. 29 • 18384 I-35 N., Ste. 113, Cibolo • www.skipsliquor.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANDREW CREELMAN, THOMAS LEFFLER AND AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Expansions

10 Walmart The store completed a $1M renovation project with a new look for the Vision Center, customer service, cash registers, garden center and more. • Reopened Oct. 31 • 6102 FM 3009, Schertz • www.walmart.com

In the news

11 Cibolo Community Center The first phase of the center—formerly known as the Noble Group Event Center—opened for the city’s senior programming on Sept. 29. The center can also be rented as an event space. • 203 S. Main St., Cibolo • www.cibolotx.gov 12 Texas Roadhouse The restaurant—owned and operated by Matt Sanders— celebrated its 25th anniversary from Sept. 8-11. Texas Roadhouse serves classic American steakhouse fare, including ribs, burgers, salads and sandwiches. • 13830 I-35, Live Oak • www.texasroadhouse.com/locations/85-live-oaktx 13 Old Main Ice House The local bar—owned by Nick Marquez—celebrated its 10-year anniversary on Sept. 26. • 110 N. Main St., Cibolo • www.oldmainicehouse.com 14 bioworX The recovery, wellness and physical therapy center changed ownership on Sept. 1. The center is now owned by Shawn and Mariah Castle.

16 Honeybee Grooming The full-service pet grooming salon—owned by Hailey Carroll—caters to both cats and dogs of any breed or size. • Opened Oct. 6

18 Chick-fil-A The restaurant—locally owned and operated by Troy Luster—serves chicken sandwiches, chicken nuggets, wraps, salads and more. • Opened Oct. 16 • 700 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City • www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/tx/kitty-hawk-rd

• 8090 Pat Booker Road, Live Oak • Facebook: Honeybee Grooming

15 Embrace Orthodontics The orthodontics celebrated its 10-year anniversary Oct. 30. Embrace Orthodontics offers treatment for children, adolescents from 11-16 years old and adults. • 791 FM 1103, Ste. 113, Cibolo • www.embraceciboloorthodontics.com 17 ZAR Wellness The business, previously known as Zen Wellness, is locally owned by Asad Shalami. ZAR Wellness sells a range of CBD and THC products, including edibles, tinctures, topicals and flowers. • Opened Oct. 18 • 14791 I-35 N., Ste. 103, Selma • www.zarwellness.com

Closings

19 Aim High Gymnastics The gym taught lessons for all skill levels in addition to leading competitive teams on a regular practice schedule. • Closed August • 4358 FM 1518, Selma • www.aim-high-gymnastics.com

• 857 Cibolo Valley Drive, Ste. 264, Cibolo • www.mybioworx.com/san-antonio-tx-cibolo

A level of care that’s truly next level Above-and-beyond service is where we start.

Scan for more info

Visit FrostBank.com or call (800) 51-FROST.

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

Government

$1.85M in EDC funding approved for Live Oak park facilities At the Sept. 30 Live Oak City Council meeting, the dais approved nine resolutions to authorize Live Oak Economic Development Corporation, or EDC, expenditures related to city parks, with three other resolution items approved on Oct. 14. Zooming in Eight items going toward the Main City Park at 18001 Park Drive, and another going toward the city’s Municipal Pool, were approved on Sept. 30, totaling $1.85 million . According to the city’s adopted 2025-26 scal year budget, projects were identied by the city’s Parks Commission after the creation of a city Parks Master Plan. “This is something we do every year, we fund some kind of quality of life projects, and we just had this master park plan completed ... [we felt] we could help out in a big way, that way,” Donna Lowder, Live Oak economic development director, told Community Impact . The largest expenditure is $522,690 , going toward the basketball pavilion and court at the park. Lowder said the funds would go toward a new, covered court to protect the court from weather elements. She said the city is seeking grant funding for the project, but if it is not secured, the expenditure would be fully covered by the EDC. Other expenditures include $405,900 toward Ero- sion-Beautication Design and $131,800 toward park picnic stations.

OAK FRST DR.

LIVE OAK PARK

LIVE OAK LAKE

Live Oak’s EDC invested in projects at its Main City Park, which is located at 18001 Park Drive in early October.

Funding park projects Up to $1.85 million in economic development corporation funding will go toward additions to Main City Park and the city’s Municipal Pool. Basketball pavilion/court $522,690

What else? According to agenda documents, the three EDC resolutions that were approved on Oct. 14 were: • $300,000 to purchase water rights for future business development • $150,000 for the Business Improvement Grant • $100,000 for the Visual Improvement Program Lowder said water rights are strictly for com- mercial development and are an incentive so that developers do not have to face overhead costs. She said the city now has $900,000 in its reserves. The Business Improvement Grant, Lowder said, is budgeted up to $50,000 for up to three businesses each year for larger building-related projects, reimbursed by the city after completion. The Visual Improvement Grant is for business exterior improvements of up to $5,000 . One more thing According to the resolutions to pass the expen- ditures, the funding can be used after Dec. 2.

Erosion-Beautication Design $405,900

Kayak launch pad $149,331 Fitness structures $137,000 Park picnic stations $131,800 Picnic stations at city Municipal Pool $98,800 Park gazebo $65,900 Sand volleyball court $22,400 Park site work and professional services $320,300

SOURCE:CITY OF LIVE OAKCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY THOMAS LEFFLER

Schertz Annex Building reopens

Guadalupe County looks to approve update to major thoroughfare plan for future roadway improvements

On Oct. 13, the Guadalupe County Schertz Annex Building at 1101 Elbel Road opened its newly renovated offices. Some details The location houses the offices of the County Clerk, District Clerk and Elections, the Precinct 3 Constable and Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace. The $4.14 million renovations include a new, secure main entrance area, as well as changes to streamline operations, according to a news release. Planning for the project began in the fall of 2023. The architect on the project was Debra J. Dockery Architecture, the release states.

Guadalupe County Commissioners Court is looking to pass an update to its major thorough- fare plan by the end of 2025. The thoroughfare plan is a long-range planning tool for the county’s future roadway system, according to a presentation given to residents Sept. 23. The plan was last updated in 2012. During their Oct. 14 meeting, commissioners agreed Dec. 16 is their goal for passing the plan. During a Sept. 23 public meeting, 424 attendees received a draft of the plan to discuss. Between Sept. 23 and Oct. 7, the county received 193 com- ments about the plan, Assistant County Engineer Barry Black said. While the plan calls for a proactive plan for future roadway improvements and connectivity with local cities, Black said property acquisition is not part of the roadway planning process. Looking ahead Black said the Northeast San Antonio portion of the county, including Cibolo and Seguin in the I-10 corridor, should be taken into consideration in the thoroughfare plan going forward. Black said this Schertz mourns loss of council member On Oct. 19, Schertz city staff announced in a news release that City Council member Tim Brown died. What you need to know Brown was elected to the Place 7 council position in 2018 and served as president of the Schertz Economic Development Corpora- tion from 2011 to 2018, according to the news release. He also served 28 years in the United States Air Force. According to Section 4.06 of the Schertz Code of Ordinances, the City Council shall call a special election to fill a single vacancy with 365 days or more remaining on the term. According to agenda documents, a special election to fill the Place 7 council seat will take place on Dec. 20.

The timeline

Guadalupe County finalized and adopted the current major thoroughfare plan 2023-25: County develops an update to the plan Sept. 23: County holds public meeting for residents Oct. 23: Public comment period on plan ends Nov.: County compiles public comments and makes any final changes

2012

2023

2024

2025

2026

Dec. 16: County to approve final amended plan

SOURCE: GUADALUPE COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

is due to potential development bringing on traffic impacts, such as semitrucks driving through the area. The public comment period ended Oct. 23. Now, county staff will compile the feedback for final review before the plan is adopted Dec. 16.

Guadalupe County Schertz Annex Building

3009

Universal City council extends ETJ agreements Universal City council extended nonannexation agreements with extraterritorial jurisdiction properties surrounding FM 1518 and Cibolo Creek during its Oct. 7 meeting. Mayor Tom Maxwell broke a 3-3 tie on a motion to extend the agreements for five years, rather than annex the 148 acres and 13 properties. The council’s decision means that it is now up to each property owner to decide if they wish to extend the agreement or be annexed, City Manager Kim Turner told Community Impact. The nonannexation agreement process began in 2015, when Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph con- ducted a joint land use study and found concern in vacant property across the area encroaching on the base. In response, cities surrounding the base annexed the ETJ containing the properties to gain local control. Landowners were against annex- ation when the city met with them, leading to a

10-year nonannexation agreement term approved in January 2016, Turner said. Annexation would give landowners city services such as police and fire protection, emergency medical services and solid waste collection, agenda documents state. What’s next Turner said the city will reach out to the property owners to get their decision whether to remain in the nonannexation agreement or to be annexed. Council will look to approve the deci- sions at a Dec. 16 meeting.

SAVANNAH DR.

Cibolo Creek/ FM 1518 ETJ

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

Education

BY THOMAS LEFFLER

Judson ISD OKs TEA turnaround plans for 4 campuses Judson ISD’s board of trustees submitted four campus turnaround plans to the Texas Education Agency on Oct. 16. requiring the district to develop a turnaround plan for the campus.

$1.75M added to Judson ISD revenue following state audit Chief Financial Officer Tony Kingman said that an audit of the state’s 2024 property value study added $1.75 million to district revenue at the Oct. 16 meeting of the Judson ISD board of trustees. With the additional revenue, the JISD fis- cal year 2025-26 shortfall now sits at $27.57 million , according to board documents. How it works According to the Office of the Texas Comptroller, a school district property value study is conducted once every two years to determine a district’s total taxable value. This ensures equitable distribution of education funding, according to the comp- troller’s office. Districts with less taxable property value per student receive more state dollars for each pupil than districts with more value per student. According to the Texas Government Code, the comptroller’s office can audit a district’s taxable value upon request and revise the final district findings. A preliminary study released by the comp- troller in January assigned $14.92 billion of taxable value to the district, while the final study lowered the figure to $14.75 billion .

Mary Duhart-Toppen, deputy superintendent of teaching and learning, said several of the ratings were a result of a campus earning higher than an “F” but being assigned the grade due to failing three of four domains scored by the TEA. What else? The district had until Nov. 21 to formally submit the plans to the TEA. The agency will send a notifi- cation of approval or rejection of the plans back to the district Jan. 23. If the initial plans are rejected, the district would have until March 24 to submit a revised plan, with a final approval or rejection decided upon by the TEA by April 8, according to board documents. JISD is also working on targeted improvement plans for Escondido Elementary, Converse Elementary, Paschall Elementary, Kirby STEM and Judson High School. A targeted improvement plan aids underperforming individual student groups, according to TEA. The board will discuss targeted improvement plans in November, Superintendent Milton “Rob” Fields III said.

According to board documents, a turnaround plan is a comprehensive improvement plan required by the state for campuses that receive multiple unacceptable TEA ratings. Texas schools are rated on an A-F scale based on the criteria of student achievement, student progress and closing opportunity gaps, according to the TEA. Turnaround plans focus on key campus changes that address the TEA’s Effective Schools Frame- work, based on TEA tenets like strategic staffing and positive school culture. Digging deeper Kirby Middle School, Henry Metzger Middle School and Park Village Elementary School were given unacceptable, or “F,” ratings from the TEA for the 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years. This requires the district to implement a turnaround plan with the purpose of earning a “C” rating by the TEA within two years, according to board documents. Masters Elementary School received “F” ratings for 2023-24 and 2024-25,

Year

Kirby Middle:

Henry Metzger Middle: 59* 59 59*

Park Village Elementary: 54 59* 59

Masters Elementary: 57 64 (D) 59

School ratings The Texas Education Agency gave “F” ratings, scores that are 59 or below, to Judson campuses that now need to submit turnaround plans to the agency.

2022-23:

54 59* 59*

2023-24: 2024-25:

*NOTE: TEA ASSIGNED “F” GRADES BASED ON FAILING THREE OF FOUR ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM DOMAINS.

SOURCES: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY, JUDSON ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SCUCISD takes first step toward selecting new high school math materials Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD, or SCUCISD, has begun moving toward Texas High Quality Instructional Materials, or HQIM, for high school math students. The overview

Georges-Penny said that the changeover to HQIM will be the first update to grades 9-12 math materials since 2015. The change also comes after the 88th Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1605, which brought requirements around instructional materials to “streamline the process,” she said. A shift in how math is taught is another factor in the switch, Georges-Penny said, with a move away from rote procedures like memorization to more real-world applications. “Remember back in the days, you’d memorize your multiplication facts. We don’t do that any- more. It’s really building the students’ conceptual understanding of why,” Georges-Penny said.

HQIM committee timeline Nov. 2025: Committee of teachers and campus administrators selected to review materials Jan. 2026: Committee members receive training on how to grade materials and begin selection process March 2026: Recommended material presented to board of trustees Feb. 2026: Instructional staff, community members provide feedback

Serena Georges-Penny, executive director of curriculum and professional development, told the SCUCISD board of trustees Oct. 23 that a com- mittee will be formed to vet the HQIM for grades 9-12 mathematics. HQIM are materials aligned to state academic standards and are approved by the State Board of Education, according to board documents.

SOURCE: SCHERTZ-CIBOLO-UNIVERSAL CITY ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY THOMAS LEFFLER

1103

Upcoming projects

Ongoing

1 Cibolo FY25 Street Rehabilitation Package 1

GREEN VALLEY RD.

CIBOLO VALLEY DR.

Project: Deer Creek Boulevard and Green Valley Road will be rehabilitated. According to Cibolo City Council agenda documents, rehabilitation is a mill and overlay treatment, where concrete is repaired and replaced as needed. Update: The project will be completed late October. • Timeline: May-October 27 • Cost: $2.69M • Funding source: FY 2025 certificate of obligation bonds

DEER CREEK BLVD

DOERR LN.

3009

Ongoing projects

3 Kramer Farm Project: Red Barn Run, Wagon Wheel, Tractor Pass, Rooster Run and Planters Pass will be rehabilitated. Rehabilitation is removing the existing asphalt, stabilizing the base underneath and adding a new asphalt layer on top, according to Schertz’s capital improvements website. Update: Design is underway on the project. • Timeline: TBD-Spring 2026 • Cost: $1.45M • Funding source: Schertz Capital Improvement Project bonds

SCHERTZ PKWY.

2 Lookout Road Project: Lookout Road from Schertz Parkway to Doerr Lane will be reconstructed. A traffic signal will also be installed at the Lookout Road and Schertz Parkway intersection. Update: According to Schertz City Council agenda documents, the project is in the design phase. • Timeline: TBD-March 2026 • Cost: $6.74M • Funding source: Schertz Economic Development Corporation, city of Selma

5/13/24, 12:03 PM

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FLORESVILLE 1605 US Highway 181 N, Ste. A, Floresville, TX 78114 830-542-8957

SCHERTZ 645 Woodland Oaks Dr., Ste. 350, Schertz, TX 78154 210-819-5002

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

Development

BY THOMAS LEFFLER

Affordable housing project opens in Schertz A new affordable housing development named Aviator 1518 celebrated its grand opening Oct. 7. Project details The 300-unit complex, located at 9120 E. FM 1518 N., was developed by The NRP Group, a mul- tifamily real estate developer, general contractor and property management firm. The complex offers units for those making between 30% and 70% of the area’s median income. Only applicants who are below the maximum income limit are allowed to reside in the complex. According to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, 30% of the median income for the San Antonio-New Braunfels metro area is $20,300 for one person, $23,200 for two people and $32,000 for a family of four.

Maximum income limits to rent at Aviator 1518 Families making between 30% and 70% of the area’s median income are allowed to rent units at the Aviator 1518.

1518

Family size

70% of area median income

Aviator 1518 offers one- to three-bedroom units. The complex also has an array of amenities, including: • A 24-hour fitness center • An outdoor playground and picnic areas • On-site laundry machines • A business center, conference room and lounge space In partnership with Community Housing Resource Partners, the apartment complex also offers after-school programs, English as a second language courses and health screenings. In their own words When you have housing, you have better

1 person

$47,390

2 people

$54,110

$60,900

3 people

$67,620

4 people

SOURCE: AVIATOR 1518/COMMUNITY IMPACT

outcomes in educational attainment, Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert said. “When you have good, quality housing, you have better outcomes in the integrity of neighborhoods.”

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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

LIVE OAK 14623 IH-35 N (210) 651-1911

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Nighthawk Winterfest This event—hosted by Northeast Lakeview College—will have games, food trucks, fireworks and more to kick off the season. • Dec. 5, 5:30-8 p.m. • Free (admission)

Holida z zle Kick off the holiday season with this annual event featuring wintry attractions, local vendors, live music and more. • Dec. 6, times vary

• $10 (Breakfast with Santa); free (admission for parade and market) • Hal Baldwin Municipal Complex, 1400 Schertz Parkway, Schertz • www.schertz.com/470/holidazzle

• 1201 Kitty Hawk Road, Live Oak • www.alamo.edu/nlc/calendar

Paws to Read Children can practice literacy skills by reading to trained therapy dogs in a relaxed setting. Pre-registration required. • Nov. 26, 1-2 p.m. • Free • Schertz Public Library, 798 Schertz Parkway, Schertz • www.schertz.com

Blame the Comic Catch the routine of this Houston-based comedian as he comes to Selma for a performance. This event is 21 and up only. Ticket holders unable to present a valid ID showing they are at least 21 years old will not be admitted and will not be eligible for a refund. • Dec. 5-6, 7:30 p.m. • $18 (admission) • Turf & Field Club at Retama Park, 1 Retama Parkway, Selma • https://tickets.retamapark.com/events Cibolo Holid a y Parade Experience Cibolo’s annual parade, local vendor market and tree lighting all-in-one at this holiday event. • Dec. 6, 11 a.m. holiday parade, 3-7:30 p.m. vendor market, 6 p.m. tree lighting • Free (admission) • Main Street and Pfeil Road, Cibolo • www.cibolotx.gov Tis the Season Cookie Decorating Class Decorate six cookies with holiday themes at this hand- on workshop. Parents must be present for all individuals under the age of 18 and hands on for children under the age of 6. • Dec. 18, 6-8 p.m. • $40 (admission) • City of Schertz North Center, 3501 Morning Drive, Schertz • Facebook event page: City of Schertz Parks and Recreation This list is not comprehensive, and events are subject to change.

November

Jingle Jolly Christmas Fe st ival See snow, holiday vendors, live music and various themed contests at this annual festival in Selma. • Nov. 15, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • $10 (12 and over); $5 (children 12 and younger) • Retama Park, 1 Retama Parkway, Selma • www.jinglejollychristmas.com Bubble Run 5K Run or walk in this themed 5K featuring bubbles, color packets and a post-competition celebration. • Nov. 22, 8 a.m. race start • $54.95 • Real Life Amphitheater, 16765 Lookout Road, Selma • www.bubblerun.com/locations/san-antonio Winter Family Movie N ight Watch this showing of the film “Elf.” Guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets. • Nov. 22, 6-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • Schertz Family YMCA, 621 Westchester Drive, Schertz • Facebook event page: Schertz Family YMCA San Antonio Cards & More Holiday Gift Show Head to this card and collectible expo featuring vendors with Pokémon, Funko, Magic: The Gathering goods and more. • Nov. 22-23, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday; 10-11 a.m. early access for VIP passes • $5 (admission), $10 (VIP admission), kids 12 and under free • Hilton Garden Inn, 8101 Pat Booker Road, Live Oak • www.cardsandmoretour.com/upcomingevents

Mario Moreno & Th e Smokin’ Gun Band Listen to this country band perform live along with

dancing and more. • Nov. 28, 8 p.m. • Free (admission)

• VFW Post 8315 Canteen, 1000 FM 78, Schertz • Facebook event page: VFW Post 8315 Canteen

Classic Christ m as The festival will have light displays, crafting workshops, food, drinks, photo opportunities and more. • Nov. 28-Dec. 28, times vary based on tickets • $21-29 (admission) • Toyota Field, 5106 David Edwards Drive, San Antonio • www.classicchristmas.com/san-antonio

December

Univer s al City Tree Lighting Get ready for the holidays with this tree lighting event and festival. This event will have food trucks, live music and more.

• Dec. 2, 6-8 p.m. • Free (admission)

• 2150 Universal City Blvd., Universal City • Facebook event page: City of Universal City

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

Utility district approves plan to secure water resources From the cover

The overview

GVSUD coverage area

2 New Braunfels

The utility district serves water to approximately 110,000 customers.

The Green Valley Special Utility District, or GVSUD, seeks to modernize one of the area’s most precious resources—its water supply— through its first-ever strategic plan. On April 24, the GVSUD board of directors adopted the strategic plan, establishing goals and initiatives for the future of the area’s water infrastructure. GVSUD’s mission statement, according to the company website, is to provide “sustainable, reliable and efficient water solutions” by connecting customers to its water supply and improving local water infrastructure. General Manager Phil Gage said that the district serves water to more than 110,000 people as a political subdivision of the state. “Our number one mission in life is [to] deliver treated water to our customers the best that we can, as clean as we can, and also do the same thing with the environment when we’re treating [our] water,” Gage said. The highest percentage of GVSUD customers is in the city of Cibolo. In November, customers who receive their sewer bill from the city and their water bill from GVSUD will receive a single bill combining both entities.

281

1 Cibolo: 37%

Marion

Cibolo

5 7

9 1

Santa Clara

Schertz

Seguin

410

2 New Braunfels: 29%

New Berlin

3 Seguin: 11%

151

San Antonio

Saint Hedwig

6 San Antonio: 4% 5 Santa Clara: 5% 4 Saint Hedwig: 8%

1604

7 Marion: 3%

8 New Berlin: 2%

281

9 Schertz: 1%

181

SOURCE: GREEN VALLEY SPECIAL UTILITY DISTRICT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Edwards Aquifer, which has received 3.13 fewer inches of rainfall than a typical year through October, according to the San Antonio Water System. The Edwards Aquifer is 3,600 square miles and is the primary water source for the area, according to the Edwards Aquifer Authority.

Utility districts are also responsible for managing water restrictions to combat drought conditions. Currently, customers are under Stage 2 restrictions, which means no watering with a sprinkler or irrigation system is allowed on weekends. GVSUD’s restrictions coincide with the level of the

Offering input

GVSUD by the numbers

The specifics

The key infrastructure upgrade for GVSUD is moving toward Automated Meter Infrastructure, or AMI. This gives the district the ability to read customer meters in real time, allowing for better data collection on water usage, loss and leaks. Currently, five out of 11 AMI antennas have been installed, with two more scheduled for fiscal year 2025-26. Once the transition to AMI is complete, the district will give customers access to a web- based program to track their own usage. Marisa Bruno, the water program manager for the Hill Country Alliance, said utility districts tend to struggle with enforcing water restrictions, a challenge where automated meters can help out. The alliance is an education and outreach group with a goal to preserve the environment of the Hill Country region. “[They] might say you can only water once a week or once every two weeks, but it can be dif- ficult to actually enforce that restriction, and so I do think a lot of the burden falls to residents to be following those drought restrictions,” Bruno said.

during strategic plan 11

AMI antennas to be installed

“It is crucial to have a strategic compass to guide the district for the foreseeable future.” JOHN FRIAS, GVSUD BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

square miles of estimated

coverage area 230

estimated coverage

population 110,000

estimated average people per covered household 2.7

leaks 43

average monthly water

“[Increased usage] we’re seeing throughout the region as population booms is also going to make it harder for our aquifers to recover.” MARISA BRUNO, WATER PROGRAM MANAGER, HILL COUNTRY ALLIANCE

water loss 762,168

gallons of average monthly

gallons of current water

inventory 3.58B

current water connections 19,400

SOURCE: GREEN VALLEY SPECIAL UTILITY DISTRICT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY THOMAS LEFFLER

Why it matters

Why now?

GVSUD is currently adapting to drought conditions in its strategic plan. One of the objectives is to complete a drought contingency plan with incentives for individual conservation, targeting a December completion. “We’re actively looking for how we can incentivize it, whether that’s through a rebate program, whether that’s through xeriscaping,” Gage said. In early 2026, the district’s board of directors will have an updated assessment briefing on sub-tasks within the strategic plan. These tasks range from the technical, such as completing AMI upgrades and a new Water Master Plan, to the communicative, such as launching a new user-friendly mobile application. In the greater statewide battle against drought conditions, the Nov. 4 election featured State Proposition 4 on the ballot. If passed, this would authorize the Texas comptroller to allocate $1 billion annually in net sales tax revenue, after revenue exceeds $46.5 billion , to the Texas Water Fund, according to the Texas Water Development Board. The amendment, if passed, would take effect Sept. 1, 2027. Funds would be allocated for 20 years unless a state of disaster is declared. “It [would create] a really meaningful bucket for conservation projects like fixing leaky pipes, so that is a huge win for conservation from our perspective,” Bruno said.

GVSUD is working to upgrade its operations by way of the strategic plan as water shortages remain a concern across Texas. Part of the plan is to invest in alternative water sources, such as Brackish water projects, which the U.S. Geological Survey defines as water with a higher salt concentration than freshwater but lower than seawater. Bexar and Guadalupe counties are currently deep into both agricultural and hydrological drought. According to Water Data for Texas, agri- cultural drought is a measure of rainfall shortage affecting crop production, while hydrological drought is a measure of a shortage’s impact on water supplies. According to the Keetch-Byram Drought Index, an index of soil moisture that determines hydro- logical drought, Guadalupe County is at 610 out of

800 as of Nov. 3, with 800 representing completely dry conditions. Bexar County is at a similarly dry 583 out of 800. Both counties are also classified as being in a majority severe agricultural drought by the U.S. Drought Monitor. Paul Bertetti, senior director of aquifer science research and modeling at the Edwards Aquifer Authority, said these conditions have been in place since early 2022. Bertetti said current drought conditions are the worst in the area since the mid-1950s. “The current drought is not nearly as long, but water levels in general are a little bit lower than they were [then], so it’s a significant drought and a concern in that, unless we get more rainfall, it’s likely that [current] water levels and water restric- tions will continue for some time,” Bertetti said.

San Antonio area drought conditions Bexar and Guadalupe counties are in deeper drought conditions than neighboring areas as of Oct. 28.

D0 - Abnormally dry D1 - Moderate drought D2 - Severe drought D3 - Extreme drought

KENDALL

COMAL

GUADALUPE

BEXAR

Comal County

Bexar County

Guadalupe County

SOURCE: WATER DATA FOR TEXAS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

Nonprofit Volunteer guide

• P.O. Box 507, Schertz • www.gridironheroes.org

Human services

Feed the hungry

Guadalupe County C hi ldren’s Advocacy Center The organization works with children and families when there are allegations of child abuse or neglect along with partners in law enforcement and other nonprofit groups. • Sample activities: forensic interviews of children, family advocacy and referrals, therapy, case management, prevention education and community awareness • Donations accepted: monetary, items for boys and girls from 3-17 years old like books, toys, backpacks, clothing and school supplies • 265 Wetz St., Seguin • www.gccac.net SCUC Education Foundation The foundation provides resources and funding to support students, teachers and staff through grants, scholarships and special programs, plus community partnerships and fundraising. • Sample activities: sponsor high school scholarships, fund teacher grants, host teacher appreciation events and staff recognition through business partnerships, golf tournaments and community donations • Donations accepted: monetary, both in kind and Goodwill San Antonio This branch of the organization helps with not only donation drives but also career placement services, employment training and youth transition services. • Sample volunteer activities: corporate operations, team building, sorting donations, warehouse work • Donations accepted: monetary, used household goods, clothes • 406 W. Commerce St., San Antonio • www.goodwillsa.org Latched Support This organization aims to support pregnant women through the entire childbearing experience with programs, classes, donations and more to families in need. • Sample volunteer activities: family education, mentoring • Donations accepted: monetary, infant supplies • 8102 Midcrown Drive, Windcrest • www.latchedsupport.com through event sponsorships • 1060 Elbel Road, Schertz • www.scucisd.org/o/foundation

Empower children

Communities In Schools of South Central Texas The nonprofit provides individualized counseling and mentoring to students in need. • Sample volunteer activities: reading buddy, mentoring, student support

• Donations accepted: monetary • 161 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.cis-sct.org

San Antonio Food Bank This citywide organization helps with anti-hunger and anti-poverty programming across 29 counties in Southwest Texas, providing for individuals and families in need. • Sample volunteer activities: monetary, put together food boxes or produce bags for distribution. make meals, work on farm • Donations accepted: monetary, canned food, produce, hygiene products • 5200 W. Old Historic Hwy. 90, San Antonio • www.safoodbank.org

Help animals

Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation This wildlife sanctuary and rescue service cares for injured, orphaned and displaced urban wildlife. Sample volunteer activities: general maintenance, animal transport, making food for animals, feeding • Donations accepted: monetary, towels, blankets, cleaning supplies, dog/cat crates, Purina pet food • P.O. Box 369, Kendalia • www.wildlife-rescue.org Animal Defense League of Texas This no-kill pet rescue and rehabilitation center helps match dogs and cats with families across the area and provides programs like fostering and low cost spay and neuter services. • Sample volunteer activities: pet care, office assistance, advocacy, events, hospital assistance • Donations accepted: monetary • 11300 Nacogdoches Road, San Antonio • www.adltexas.org ABC of Southwest Texas The organization helps to support parents with children that have disabilities through a variety of programs including training and case management. • Sample volunteer activities: clerical support, event support, office assistance • Donations accepted: monetary • 217 Howard St., San Antonio • www.abcofswtx.org

• Donations accepted: monetary • 798 Schertz Parkway, Schertz • www.schertz.com/603/volunteer

Feed the hungry

Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program The ministry helps to meet the needs of local citizens in crisis by providing them with food and a limited amount of financial assistance for rent or utilities. • Sample activities: assistance with groceries, rent or utilities, school supplies (seasonal) and a holiday meal basket for Thanksgiving and Christmas (seasonal) • Donations accepted: monetary, food, toiletries, Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries Serving Comal County and surrounding areas in the region, this ministry helps with disaster relief, conducts food drives and provides faith-based events and classes to the community. • Sample volunteer activities: food packing, mentoring, administrative duties, warehouse operation, clothing drives • Donations accepted: monetary, hygiene products, canned food, in-date groceries, frozen meat feminine hygiene items • 307 Pfeil St., Schertz • www.racap.org/donations-support

Gridiron Heroes Spinal Cord Injury Organization

Civic

Serving athletes that have experienced severe, career- ending injuries, the organization provides short and long- term resources like accessible vans and more to these individuals and their families. • Sample volunteer activities: donations, shopping, event assistance drives • Donations accepted: monetary,

Schertz Public Library The city’s library system helps to promote literacy and provide a community space for learning, reading and media. • Sample volunteer activities: shelving books, children’s activities assistance, class assistance

• 38 Cascade Caverns Road, Boerne • www.hillcountrydailybread.org

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANDREW CREELMAN & THOMAS LEFFLER

Help animals

Empower children

Rescue Pets Serving Vets This organization matches at-risk shelter pets from the San Antonio municipal shelter to those that have served the country that are in need. • Sample volunteer activities: shelter volunteer, event assistance • Donations accepted: monetary, dog food, dog toys, pet supplies • Facebook: Rescue Pets Serving Vets San Antonio

Big Brothe rs Big Sisters of South Texas of Comal and Guadalupe Counties This nonprofit organization helps to provide underserved children with mentors who lead them through life choices, education, friendships and more.

• Sample volunteer activities: mentoring and tutoring younger children • Donations accepted: monetary • 10843 Gulfdale St., San Antonio • www.bigmentor.org/texas-hill-country

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2967 Oak Run Pkwy Suite 315 Call 830-360-2000 • www.hearintx.com

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

Dining

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Pollo Picosito serves up Tex-Mex with a West Coast twist in Live Oak While Tex-Mex and breakfast tacos are abundant throughout San Antonio, Jose Castellanos said he wanted to put his own twist on the tried-and-true cuisine. Some context Hailing from Guadalajara, Mexico, Castellanos said he has been in the restaurant and hospitality business for 45 years, managing and owning a variety of eateries for decades. So, to slow things down and “retire,” he decided to open Live Oak’s Pollo Picosito—a spot that Castellanos said has become a local favorite. “I wanted to run a little spot in this nice commu- nity,” Castellanos said. “It was the perfect choice.” Digging deeper Castellanos said the main priorities of his restau- rant are simple—breakfast tacos in the morning, then puy tacos and enchiladas for lunch. But there’s more to the menu. Castellanos said he’s experimented with some special West Coast styles of Mexican food, from California burritos loaded with French fries to fajitas lled with mesquite-grilled chicken. Quote of note Castellanos said opening Pollo Picosito was the perfect way to settle down. He keeps the local community fed and his need to keep busy satised. “It keeps me busy, and I’ve met some great people here,” he said.

The chicken autas plate ($11) comes with rice, beans and extra tortillas.

COURTESY POLLO PICOSITO

12107 Toepperwein Road, Ste. 7, Live Oak www.pollopicosito.com

Jose Castellanos opened Pollo Picosito in 2022.

ANDREW CREELMANCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Love God, Love Others, Reach the World

C IBOLO V ALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH

Sunday Services • Traditional , 8:30am • Bible Study (All Ages) , 9:45am • Contemporary , 11:00am Celebrate Recovery , Sundays, 5:00pm

Saturday Service 5 PM

5500 FM 1103 Schertz, TX • (210) 658-0525 • cibolovalleychurch.org

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

Year over year, the number of homes sold increased in the 78154 ZIP code, according to the most recent data compiled by the San Antonio Board of Realtors. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

September 2024

September 2025

+39.28%

-31.65%

+4.54%

78154

78108

78148

78233

Median home sales price

1604

September

2024

2025

78154

$282,450

$345,000

78154

78233

78108

78148

$380,000

$363,389

78108

$305,000

$260,000

78148

$284,950

$242,500

78233

Average home price in the last 6 months

Average days on market

78154 $359,115

-9.09%

-12.74%

+97.01%

-5.63%

78108 $230,042

78154

78108

78148

78233

78148 $285,999

Homes sold by price point in September

78154

78108

78148

78233

$900,000+

78233 $276,387

$700,000-$899,999

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY THE SAN ANTONIO BOARD OF REALTORS • 9110 W. I10 2105931200 • WWW.SABOR.COM

<$299,999

NORTHEAST SAN ANTONIO METROCOM EDITION

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