Bastrop - Cedar Creek Edition | December 2024

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Bastrop Cedar Creek Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 10  JAN. 2 JAN. 31, 2025

2024 Senior Living Guide

Agriculture dwindles

Lee Bates of the 500-acre Triple B Ranch in Paige gives treats to her herd’s matriarch, Big Mac.

AMANDA CUTSHALLCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Bastrop groups cook up plans to support local farmers and ranchers

“The event served as a platform to connect stake- holders, showcase the contributions of our local farmers—including migrant families—and strengthen our shared commitment to sustainable food prac- tices,” Executive Director Norma Mercado said.

Center for Local Food to address these challenges head-on. In April, the Bastrop County Local Food Action Plan was launched. One initiative within the plan was the inaugural Local Food Fair in November, developed by non- pro€t collaborative Bastrop County Cares.

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Bastrop County farmers and ranchers are strug- gling to make ends meet as agricultural land is developed amid the area’s rapid growth. This limits the availability of land for growing and selling food. Local organizations teamed up with the Texas

CONTINUED ON 12

Also in this issue

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Impacts: Learn about plans for Chuy’s Tex-Mex to open a location in Bastrop (Page 7)

Government: Read about the resignation of Bastrop City Attorney Alan Bojorquez (Page 10)

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BASTROP  CEDAR CREEK EDITION

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About Community Impact

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

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Amanda Cutshall Dacia Garcia Sarah Hernandez Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Karoline Pfeil Sam Schaœer

Leslie Bradshaw General Manager lbradshaw@ communityimpact.com

Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Product Manager Haley Grace Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara

Sierra Martin Editor smartin@ communityimpact.com

Travis Baker Publisher tbaker@ communityimpact.com

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Impacts

GORDON ST.

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

BUTTONWOOD ST.

95

Expansions

969

FISHERMAN'S PARK

3 5

2

71

Bastrop

21

6

304

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BASTROP STA

7

150

WALNUTST.

AUSTINST.

21

150

EMILE ST.

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6 Bastrop Opera House The Bastrop Opera House team will add over 5,000 square feet when it begins the Ÿrst $2.6 million phase of its two-phase expansion into the historic building adjacent to its current space. It is anticipated to take around six months and provide a dedicated space for youth programs, more rehearsal space and a cultural gathering spot. • Construction to begin by March 2025 • 711 Spring St., Bastrop • www.bastropoperahouse.org

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MAP NOT TO SCALE

N TM; © 2024 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

• Opening mid-2025 • 707 Hwy. 71, Bastrop • www.jeremiahsice.com 111

Now open 1 Quinto Patio The owners of Anita’s Mexican Restaurant in Bastrop opened a new Tex-Mex eatery. • Opened on Nov. 2 • 114 Second St. NE, Smithville • 512-237-1001 111

4 Frontier Bank Bastrop Frontier Bank will Ÿll the former Austin Institute of Art building. The space will o†er loan and deposit services for customers, and serve as a board room. • Opens in the ¡irst quarter of 2025 • 921 Main St., Bastrop • www.frontierbankoftexas.bank Chuy’s Tex-Mex Chuy’s o†ers traditional Tex-Mex options like fajitas, tacos, enchiladas and burritos. • Opening TBD • Bastrop • www.chuys.com

moved from 1106 College Street, allowing the clinic to treat more patients using cutting-edge technology. • Relocated on Oct. 1

Coming soon

• 627 Hwy. 71 W., Bastrop • www.austinretina.com

2 Jersey Mike’s Subs Franchise owner Michael Jordan will open the sandwich shop, o†ering nearly 30 hot and cold menu options. • Opening in mid-2025 • In the Pearl River development near the intersection of Hwy. 71 W. and FM 969 • www.jerseymikes.com 3 Jeremiah’s Italian Ice Local couple Jack and Aly Plimpton will o†er dozens of •avors for their housemade Italian ice, ice cream and the brand’s “jelati”—a combination of the two.

In the news

7 Kerr Community Center The historic center celebrated its 110th anniversary on Dec. 15 with a party and awards ceremony. Built in 1914 by Beverly and Lula Kerr, the center has served as a hub

Relocations

for the Black community. • 1308 Walnut St., Bastrop • www.kerrcommunitycenter.org

5 Austin Retina Austin Retina spokesperson Pam Shipley said the clinic

Call us today to schedule your appointment

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY DACIA GARCIA

January

Bastrop Chamber of Commerce Banquet Residents can enjoy a night of dancing at the annual banquet where attendees will participate in a silent auction, dinner, witness a sing-o and play a card game. Disco attire is encouraged but business wear is acceptable. • Jan. 17, 6-10 p.m. • Prices vary • Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, The Mysterious Circus Bastrop residents can witness high-‡ying stunts, acrobatics, dance and showcases of talent performed in a theatrical tent. The event will be performed in Spanish on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 7:30 p.m. • Jan. 17-19, showtimes vary by day • Free (children 2 and under), $20 (adult admission) • Mayfest Park, 25 American Legion Drive, Bastrop • www.themysteriouscircus.com 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.bastropchamber.com Author Event: Dr. Clementine Msengi Sponsored by the Bastrop County African American Cultural Center & Freedom Colonies Museum and Friends of Bastrop Library, the author will speak about her memoir, “Spared.” The memoir tells her story in escaping genocide in Rwanda and ›nding a home in America. • Jan. 18, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. • Free • Bastrop Public Library, 1100 Church St., Bastrop • www.friendsofbastroplibrary.org Mardi Gras Celebration Attendees can enjoy live music and food while a queen and king are announced at the event. The pair of royalty is nominated by members of the Bastrop Community Senior Center. • Jan. 21, 5 p.m. • Free • Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St. • www.bastropcommunityseniorcenter.org

‘Shakespeare in Love’ Directed by Gretchen Westbrook, the play based on the award-winning movie displays William Shakespeare’s creative process and imagination as he writes Romeo and Juliet. • Jan. 24-Feb. 2, Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. • $25 • Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St., Bastrop • www.bastropoperahouse.org Cowboy Yeti Trail Run The race will feature a 7K, 20K, 40K, 60K and 100K. Runners will receive a Cowboy Yeti long-sleeve and ›nisher medal in addition to a handful of race awards. • Jan. 25, 7 a.m. Bastrop Empty Bowl The 20th annual event will help raise funds for food support in the community. Attendees will sample soups, stews and chilies, and will take home a ceramic soup bowl, decorated by Bastrop ISD students and community members. • Jan. 25, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. • $25 • Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop • www.bastropfoodpantry.org/events

• $55-$165 (races vary in price) • Bastrop State Park, 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop • www.ultrasignup.com/default.aspx 2025 Bastrop County Bridal Extravaganza The sixth annual event will give brides-to-be a variety of vendors to check out, including ‡orists, photographers, caterers and dress designers. Attendees can simply get inspiration from vendors or take advantage of the special discounts available at the event. • Jan. 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free • Hampton Inn & Suites, 240 S. Hasler Road, Bastrop • www.bastropbrides.com Bastrop Mardi Gras Bastrop residents can embrace the fun of Mardi Gras with a ball featuring musical performances, Cajun-‡avored appetizers and a cash bar. Individuals are welcome to extend the fun with a parade and gumbo cook o. • Jan. 31, 7-11 p.m.; Feb. 1, 10 a.m. • $75 (ball admission); free (parade) • Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut St., Bastrop; Downtown Bastrop • www.bastroptxmardigras.com/parade

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BASTROP  CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Government

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & SIERRA MARTIN

County OKs tax incentive for $5B data center Bastrop County is in the running to house a $5 billion data center campus after commissioners oœered developers a 10-year property tax abate- ment during a Dec. 9 meeting. Some context Located at the northeast corner of FM 535 and Wolf Lane in Cedar Creek, the 112-acre lot was previously earmarked for a more than 2,000-home subdivision. Commissioners expressed their support to pivot plans to the data center. Bastrop County Judge Gregory Klaus noted that the subdivision would have required additional costs to employ more ›rst responders and would have increased tra‚c

County supports SpaceX tax breaks Bastrop County’s Space Exploration Technologies Corp., or SpaceX, is on its way to qualifying for tax exemptions. In a nutshell Following the OK from county commis- sioners Dec. 9, Bastrop County Judge Gregory Klaus sent a letter of support to the Foreign Trade Zones of Central Texas to encourage o‚cials to grant SpaceX an FTZ designation. Klaus said this would exempt the com- pany from paying inventory taxes on items imported into and being held for export out of the facility, located on FM 1209 in Bastrop. Why it matters In a document submitted to the court by Precinct 4 Commissioner David Glass, the designation would help SpaceX streamline the overall receiving, production and shipping processes. This would improve the company’s job security and creation, infra- structure investment and development, and increased production capacity and product sales, he said. Notable quote “Right now, they’ve got about 900 employees out there,” Glass said during the meeting. “By the end of next year, they may have 1,200-1,500 employees. I think their tax base is around $900 million cur- rently. So, they’ve been a great community company to come to Bastrop County and a great resource for us.”

535

N

SOURCE: EDGECONNEX, BASTROP COUNTY COMMUNITY IMPACT

chooses Bastrop. Workman noted that the tax abatement would be a pivotal factor, adding that the customer is looking at other potential sites. “We need more industry here to take the tax burden oœ our residents,” Precinct 4 Commis- sioner David Glass said. “This is a project that’s got a ‘B’ in the word, you know, billions. It’s not a small project.” The impact Workman said the project would produce $7 million for the county, and $100 million for Bastrop ISD, during the 10-year tax abatement—not counting what the customer would produce. “Right now, the land is generating about $25,000 in annual tax revenue,” Workman said. Glass said when all is completed, the property would be valued at around $5 billion, including $1.4 billion in site improvements, according to county documents. “Our current tax base is $15 billion, so this could equal almost a third of our current tax base for properties,” Glass said. Notable quote “I personally feel very thankful that they’ve come to the county of Bastrop and asked us to work with them,” Glass said. “I think this is going to be a great thing for the county.”

congestion. The details

Known as DFW33220N, the project name and customer have not been released; however, it is being developed and will be operated by Virgin- ia-based custom data center provider EdgeConneX. The center will take between ›ve to eight years to complete and occupy 2.8 million square feet of space. The area will be divided between four buildings—three at 800,000 square feet each, and one at 400,000 square feet, said Todd Workman, spokesperson for EdgeConneX. “We don’t intend to just be here with buildings,” Workman said. “I mean, our buildings will be nice-looking, well-managed and quiet, but this is also a company that has a tendency to strongly engage in the community.” During the meeting, commissioners discussed the potential bene›ts to the county if the customer

Bastrop City Attorney Alan Bojorquez resigns after seven years of service “Our rm made serving the city organization a top priority, but

On Dec. 10, Bastrop City Council accepted Bastrop City Attorney Alan Bojorquez’s resignation after seven years in the position. His last day to serve the city was Dec. 31. The details In his resignation letter obtained by Community Impact , Bojorquez said it’s been an honor to serve as a “steady, stabilizing inšuence” during a period of “tremendous” change, but he is hoping the city can bene›t from diœerent legal representation.

“I think we’re at a point to where the relationship has sort of run its course, and perhaps it’s time for y’all to have some new representation, and I’ll go oœ and serve other communities and let y’all recruit someone new to guide you,” Bojorquez said. Council members chose law ›rm Denton Navarro Rodriguez Bernal Santee & Zech to begin its interim legal representation, eœective immediately, at a regular meeting Dec. 17. Assistant City Manager Andres Rosales said council members will begin the search for a new city attorney in early 2025.

when City Hall is ‘a house divided,’ it poses unique ethical challenges for a city attorney.” ALAN BOJORQUEZ, FORMER CITY ATTORNEY

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

The real estate market for the Bastrop-Cedar Creek area saw 62 home sales in Nov. 2024, according to data from the Austin Board of Realtors. Residential market data

Homes sold by price point in November 2024

78602

78612

- -

1

$900,000+

2 5 9 3

$700,000-$899,999

13 23

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

6

<$300,000

95

78602

71

21

Median home sales price

21

304

November

2023

2024

78612

$368,000

$375,000

78602

N

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 512‹454‹7636 WWW.ABOR.COM

$407,800

$474,998

78612

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BASTROP  CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Agriculture dwindles From the cover

The challenge

Closed farms and ranches Buckner Cow Horses Barton Hill Farm Current farms and ranches 1 Green Gate Farms 2 Hope Valley Tree Farm 3 Middle Ground Farm 4 Tarcoola Ranch Current developments 5 Ad Astra 6 The Colony 7 The Boring Company 8 SpaceX 9 X Headquarters

60

969

The Local Food Action Plan outlines initiatives ranging from Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program incentives at farmers markets to agritourism, student farm collaborations, farm- to-table programs and more. Sarah Fulton-Smith, Texas director for the American Farmland Trust, said Bastrop County is expected to lose up to 27,000 acres of agricultural land by 2040. This equates to a potential loss of 7.64%, according to data provided by the Bastrop Central Appraisal District. Consumer access is another obstacle local producers face, said Willy Culberson of Culberson Cattle Company, adding that there is nowhere to sell local food daily. Data from the Texas Center for Local Food supports Culberson’s statement, with numbers showing about 95% of the food produced in the county is not processed, sold or consumed locally. Even if location were not an issue, families— particularly those with Œnancial constraints— struggle with the cost and having the time to prepare meals from scratch, said Austin Moline, coordinator for the Texas Center for Local Food, or TCLF. Big businesses, such as those belonging to Elon Musk and Alton Butler’s upcoming Bastrop 552 Film Studio, are migrating to the county due to its lower cost and higher quality of living compared to metropolitan areas such as Austin, according to data from the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation. At the same time, green space is being paved over to support the growing population’s needs, such as master-planned communities, shopping centers and more—creating opportunities for industrial and manufacturing facilities. Erin Flynn, co-owner of Green Gate Farms and a

Utley

3

1

HOWARD LANE

65

5

9

6

8

7

2

4

1209

969

228

MCKINNEY ROUGHS NATURE PARK

Bastrop

6

71

Wyldwood

1209

21

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MAP NOT TO SCALE N

O›cials are utilizing the increased industrial options to help ease the property tax burden on residents. Recently, Bastrop County commissioners approved a 10-year tax abatement incentive for a $5 billion data center campus to do just that, said David Glass, Bastrop County Precinct 4 commissioner, at a Dec. 9 meeting.

communitywide volunteer e’ort called Friends of the Land, said a prime example of this can be seen in the county’s increased gravel mining industry. “In the past three years, gravel miners have purchased more than 1,100 acres of farmland and have begun disrupting and/or ending farming operations,” Flynn said, noting Barton Hills Farms as an example, which closed in August 2023.

What else?

Elgin Farmers Market SNAP incentives Issued Redeemed

half of the DUFB issued is redeemed. Moline speculated that this is due to meal planning and preparation time constraints that tend to accom- pany fresh food. “This can be particularly challenging when the alternative is lower cost fast food, which is conve- nient, proli c, arguably designed to be addictive and is targeted at low-income families,” he said. Because of these challenges and more, the TCLF said Bastrop has more than 2,000 farms and ranches, yet fewer than 50 grow and sell their food for local markets.

Consumer aordability is another hurdle local food producers are facing. Michelle Akindiya, Farmshare Austin education director, said that more programs are needed to help those who cannot aord local food. Current eorts include the SNAP Double Up Food Bucks program implemented at the Elgin Farmers Market in July 2023; however, use has been minimal, Moline said. The DUFB doubles SNAP bene ts up to $30 per week for those purchasing fresh food. According to data provided by the EFM, about

-42%

$0 $200 $400 $600 $800

July 2023-November 2024

SOURCE: ELGIN FARMERS MARKET COMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Keep in mind

Agricultural acreage over time Over a 20-year period, Bastrop County has lost more than 54% of the total acreage used for farming and ranching.

The rapid loss of agricultural land can be seen throughout the county, said Shayne Bates, co-owner of Triple B Ranch. “A lot of ranchers around here are multigenera- tional, and we are seeing that when the kids inherit several million dollars worth of land, they don’t know what to do with it or may not be willing to do long hours of literally hard labor,” Bates said, noting that oftentimes he has seen where those inheriting the land prefer other careers, such as o‘ce jobs. “So, ultimately, you see one of two things happen: The kids either sell it all, or they carve it up into many tracts of land, and new subdivisions pop up,” he said. Agricultural land shrinkage is also problematic for the local ecosystem, Fulton-Smith said. Hilary Bravenec, Bastrop County District Con- servationist for the U.S. Department of Agricul- ture Natural Resources Conservation Service, said free conservation advice and nancial assistance are available.

-54%

600K

400K

200K

0

2002

2004

2006

2008

2010

2012

2014

2016

2018

2020

2022

SOURCE: USDA CENSUS COMMUNITY IMPACT

“NRCS works one-on-one with producers to identify natural resource concerns on their land and recommend conservation practices that can be implemented to address those concerns,” Bravenec said. A few of the nancial assistance programs include those related to environmental quality incentives, conservation stewardship, and agricul- tural management assistance, as well as easement programs. Those with questions can reach out to Bravenec at hilary.bravenec@usda.gov.

Bastrop population density

+31%

120 80 100

0 20 40 60

2010

2020

SOURCE: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU COMMUNITY IMPACT

Lend a hand

Along with utilizing programs such as the SNAP Double Up Food Bucks and visiting farmers markets, community members can volunteer with local organizations, including:

4

Elgin

5

Manor

3

290

McDade

The consensus among o™cials is that partnerships from the community, government, and local producers are vital. “To have the heart for it and the love for it to produce food locally outweighs those challenges, and you ›nd a way to get through it,” Culberson said.

1 Farmshare Austin in Cedar Creek 2 Green Gate Farms in Bastrop 3 Refugee Collective in Elgin

4 Simple Promise Farm in Elgin 5 Shepard’s Flock Farm in Elgin

130 TOLL

Del Valle

95

290

Utley

1

71

2

Bastrop

21

N

SOURCE: LOCAL FOOD ACTION PLAN COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BASTROP  CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Education

BY HANNAH NORTON & SIERRA MARTIN

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Nightly road closure, delays continue near Burleson Crossing

CTE students to intern with Walgreens Bastrop ISD students will have the oppor- tunity to receive their pharmacy technician certications by interning with Walgreens. A closer look On Nov. 19, the board of trustees approved a three-year partnership agreement with the pharmacy chain. This school year, 12 students are anticipated to participate. In the 2025-26 school year, the program is expected to double and add 10 additional students in subsequent years.

SBOE requests oversight of public school library book ratings Members of the Texas State Board of Educa- tion said Nov. 21 that they wanted the power to determine what books are appropriate for public school students. In a set of legislative recommendations, the board asked Texas legislators to pass a law next year allowing it to review and rate school library books. Texas’ 89th legislative session begins Jan. 14. What you need to know The majority-Republican SBOE voted Nov. 22 to formally request the change from lawmakers. Giving the board control of the book rating process would alleviate the burden on school districts and resolve a legal challenge to a 2023 state law, members said.

“At the end of the day, the local school boards still have to have a local policy based on those ratings. So it does not really take local control away, but it does get something o of the plate of local school boards.” TOM MAYNARD, REPUBLICAN STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 10 REPRESENTATIVE

Tra—c delays will continue near Burleson Crossing shopping center, with roadwork resuming on Jan. 6. Contractors had previously wrapped up pipeline work on Dec. 4; however, the lines failed when testing began. Two-minute impact A portion of FM 969, between SH 71 and Blakey Lane, will be closed nightly between 8 p.m.-5 a.m. while utility contractors work in the area until Jan. 27. Detours will once again be set up along Edward Burleson Lane and Du– Drive. Some context Workers will be connecting areas north of SH 71 to the new wastewater treatment plant that came online in May. The biggest area to be connected so far is around Hyperloop Plaza—home to several companies owned by Elon Musk.

Closed

Detours

EDWARD BURLESON LANE

969

BLAKEY LANE

71

Texas is blocked from fully enforcing House Bill 900, a 2023 state law that would have required book vendors to rate books for sexual content before selling them to schools. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals blocked the law in January 2024, siding with booksellers who said HB 900 violated their freedom of speech. A portion of the law that updated library collec- tion standards for schools remains in e–ect. Transferring rating authority to the SBOE would likely end the court case, according to Chris Maska, deputy general counsel for the Texas Education Agency.

HUNTERS CROSSING BLVD.

BEAR HUNTER DR.

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In September, Bastrop city and county o—cials conrmed with Community Impact that infra- structure updates are needed to accommodate the addition of Musk’s social media company X—formerly known as Twitter. The relocation of X will mark the fth Bastrop-based company owned by Musk.

Walgreens locations

95

BASTROP STATE PARK

150

71

Workers are laying a pipeline to connect areas north of SH 71 to the new wastewater treatment plant.

N

AMANDA CUTSHALLCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BASTROP 739 State Hwy 71 (512) 308-0250

ELGIN 1100 US-290 (512) 285-2741

GIDDINGS 1920 E Austin St (979) 212-4031

Community

BY SIERRA MARTIN

Senior Living Guide

2024

Readers, welcome to your annual CI Senior Living Guide! This guide features the latest updates and resources on senior living options in your community. All of the stories were written by our team of local journalists. As a local resident who just moved her parents to Bastrop, living in a community that o”ers services, support and activities to seniors has never been more important to me. In this year’s edition, learn more about how local organizations are working with seniors to keep them healthy, engaged and active in the Bastrop community.

What's inside

Read about how seniors can volunteer as “grandparents” to students (Page 17)

Leslie Bradshaw General Manager lbradshaw@ communityimpact.com

Learn about senior living facilities in Bastrop (Page 18)

Read about how the Bastrop Senior Center keeps members active (Page 21)

For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!

Local senior statistics

The senior population, which is 65 and older, in Bastrop County communities has †uctuated from 2019 to 2023. In Bastrop County, the median age has remained in the mid-to-late 30’s.

Senior population growth by city

2023 population percentage

Bastrop

Cedar Creek - Red Rock

Smithville

5-year percentage change

Age 64 and under

Age 65 or older

6K

Bastrop

Cedar Creek - Red Rock

+57.5%

9,041 1,443

32,271 5,152

5K

13.76%

13.4%

4K

3K

Bastrop County median age

-7.2%

-12.83%

2K

38.4

38

2019

2022

1K

38

37.5

2020

2023

38.5

2021

0

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

SOURCE: US CENSUS BUREAU COMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Foster Grandma Gloria Torres volunteers in Bastrop.

Foster grandparents can sign up for 20 40 hours per week to build one-on-one relationships with local students who have exceptional needs.

PHOTOS COURTESY AMANDA CUTSHALL

Q&A with Grandma Gloria Torres What is your favorite memory so far?

Foster grandparents, Bastrop students thrive together Retired residents and Bastrop County students are forming meaningful connections through the state-based Foster Grandparent Program. How it works Volunteers aged 55 and older with limited

One of the little boys ran up to me the rst time he saw me and yelled “Abuela,” which means grandma in Spanish and gave me a big hug. Why did you sign up? I retired and had extra time and wanted to give back to the community. My grandchildren are all teenagers now, so I wanted to spend time with these younger children and help them—but they are also helping me. What would you say to someone considering becoming a foster grandparent? Do it. When the children need someone to talk to without any judgment, you are there for them—to listen to them, give them advice, and o er hugs; it is so rewarding.

Measuring the impact Funded by AmeriCorps, foster grandparents help students by reading stories, assisting with class projects, and serving as mentors. Ru‚corn said this has led to signi cant improve- ments in student performance. Get involved Volunteers must undergo an application and interview process, including a three-part back- ground check and 20 hours of pre-service training. Those interested can reach out to Diane Rouda at diane.rouda@hhs.texas.gov or 512-529-1415.

incomes can sign up for 20-40 hours per week to build one-on-one relationships with local students who have exceptional needs. Foster grandparents receive a tax-free stipend and transportation reimbursement, among other bene ts, said Jen- nifer Ru‚corn, Texas Health and Human Services Commission spokesperson.

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BASTROP  CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Community Senior living communities

Settlement Estates Type: independent Opened: 2004 Cost: $1,210 per month (1 bed unit), $1,440 per month (2 bed unit) Total units: 70 Amenities: laundry facility, pool, community room, lawn care, maintenance sta • 149 Settlement Drive, Bastrop • 512-321-1447 Riverwood Commons (buildings I & II) Type: independent Opened: 2013 (Riverwood I), 2021 (Riverwood II) Cost: Riverwood I: $865-$1,301 per month Riverwood II: $1,037-$1,280 per month Total units: 36 in each building Amenities: tness center, computer lab, activities • 440 Old Austin Hwy., Bastrop • 512-308-1490 This list is not comprehensive.

Types of communities

Bastrop

Independent-living communities cater to older adults with limited care needs. Most include amenities, such as tness programs, housekeeping and communal meals. Assisted-living communities specialize in providing care and supervision. These facilities frequently oer a full range of amenities as well as limited medical assistance. Memory care facilities specialize in providing care to seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive issues. Sta members are trained to help residents manage these diseases. Hospice care is intended to relieve symptoms and suering associated with a terminal illness in those who have been given six months or less to live. The patient must choose to forgo further curative treatment. Nursing home/skilled nursing facilities provide care to those with illnesses or mental conditions requiring full- time monitoring and medical care.

Bastrop Lost Pines Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Type: skilled nursing Opened: 2009 Cost: not provided Total units: 112 Amenities: beauty salon, recreational activities, therapy gym, transportation, WiFi • 430 Old Austin Hwy., Bastrop • 512-321-3527 Silver Pines Nursing Home Type: skilled nursing Opened: 1994 Cost: not provided Total units: 101 Amenities: beauty salon, recreational activities, secure memory support unit, therapy gym, transportation, WiFi • 503 Old Austin Hwy., Bastrop • 512-321-6220

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY AMANDA CUTSHALL, DACIA GARCIA & SIERRA MARTIN

Bastrop

Bastrop

Windsor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Bastrop Type: skilled nursing Opened: 1990 Cost: not provided Total units: 85 Amenities: transportation, therapy gym, recreational activities, WiFi • 400 Old Austin Hwy., Bastrop • 512-321-2529

Argent Court Assisted Living Type: assisted living Opened: 2001 Cost: $3,300-$4,649 per month Total units: 68 Amenities: beauty salon, cable television,

daily activities, housekeeping, kitchenettes, laundry, meals, outdoor courtyard, pets allowed, transportation, WiFi • 508 Old Austin Hwy., Bastrop • 521-321-9500

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Nonpro t

BY KAIYA LITTLE

Suzanne Anderson, the CEO of AGE of Central Texas, sits at her desk located at the organization’s main oce.

KAIYA LITTLECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Supplying services • Health equipment lending • Daytime care • Technology learning classes

• Memory loss care • Caregiver support

AGE of Central Texas provides services for aging adults throughout the Austin metro.

COURTESY AGE OF CENTRAL TEXAS

SOURCE: AGE OF CENTRAL TEXASCOMMUNITY IMPACT

AGE of Central Texas supports aging adults, caregivers in region Since 1985, AGE of Central Texas, or Austin Groups for the Elderly, has provided resource centers in the Austin area dedicated to supporting aging adults and their caregivers as they navigate the health care landscape. What’s special about it CEO Suzanne Anderson said AGE presents a unique opportunity for aging adults to “age in place” and maintain access to their home and local resources, such as grocery stores and pharmacies.

What they oer One of the central goals of the organization is to provide community and connection, such as its memory loss program and a weekday care center. Though Anderson began her role at AGE six years ago, her experiences with the organiza- tion started before then. When her father was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and began experiencing memory loss, she turned to its resources for support as he wanted to continue aging at home. “[Having AGE] was truly a blessing from a caregiver standpoint—to have a shoulder to lean on and know that there are those resources that I could call at any time,” Anderson said. Dig deeper With two centers located in Central Austin and

35

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9400 Alice Mae Lane, Austin www.ageofcentraltexas.org

Round Rock, AGE announced plans for a new thrive and wellness center to open in South Austin in the future. In Bastrop County, the nonproŒt provides resource navigation, caregiver education and sup- port groups and early memory loss care services.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Community

BY DACIA GARCIA

The center provides various events for seniors.

The senior center hosts a Mardi Gras event every year where two seniors from the center are crowned king and queen.

PHOTOS COURTESY BASTROP SENIOR CENTER

Bastrop Senior Center keeps residents active

[when] we can, and the community helps us by bringing us events that we can help with so we feel useful,” Metcalf said. More details Local organizations also frequent the center to help seniors with various skills. Metcalf said the center periodically hosts community events open to all including the Empty Bowl Project, Kitty Bingo and the Bastrop Mardi Gras Dance. With her 13 years of experience at the center, she said the people are the best part. “Charlie Carman and his wife Leola started the center way back and it’s evolved to what it is now so I think the people are the best memory,” Metcalf said.

From art and creative groups to athletic activities, seniors have participated in daily activities at Bastrop Senior Center for nearly 30 years. President Kathy Metcalf said the organization has grown to serve more than 390 members in 2024. The impact The center o ers nearly 20 activities, including chair volleyball, chair yoga, bingo, line dancing, a crafting group, a quilting group, a painting group and more, as stated on its website. In addition to activities, the center o ers rides to doctors’ appointments and grocery shopping. To participate in activities, seniors must pay a mem- bership fee of $25 a year. “We [make an] impact by helping the community

The center oers activities, including a quilting group.

LINDEN ST.

HAWTHORNE ST.

N

1209 Linden St., Bldg. 1, Bastrop www.bastropcommunityseniorcenter.org

• Multi - specialty health care • 24/7 phone nurses • Easy, online scheduling • On - site x - ray and lab • Online patient portal • Locations near you We’re here when you need us, days, nights, weekends & holidays AustinRegionalClinic.com Happy Holidays and a Joyful New Year

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BASTROP CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Dining

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

reported by Community Impact. CI Foodie

From Greek baklavas to Filipino-style ceviche, here are the newest restaurants to check out in Austin, as recently

Austin

Austin

Bee Cave

Sushi by Han The recently opened sushi restaurant oers a variety of traditional sushi, sashimi and nigiri rolls alongside specialty dishes. The business also has a full bar and cocktail selection. Sushi by Han is operated by Joseph Han, who has worked across the Austin restaurant scene. • Opened Aug. 1 • 12233 N. RM 620, Ste. 104, Austin • www.sushibyhan.com

Mr. Brew This drive-thru coee shop features classic menu items, such as lattes, mochas and cold brew. Customers can also try specialty Žavors, such as caramel and dark chocolate. In addition, the menu includes cold drinks with Red Bull, Topo Chico or Lotus Plant Energy as a base. • Opened Sept. 6 • 8606 Research Blvd., Austin • www.mrbrewcoffee.com

OneTaco The taqueria expanded to its •rst location in West Austin. The menu includes items such as street tacos, Mexican street corn, margaritas and Mexican Žan. Eight other locations can be found across the Austin metro. • Opened Sept. 19 • 3944 RM 620, Bldg. 3, Ste. 130, Bee Cave • www.onetaco.com

Austin

Bastrop

Georgetown

OKO This Filipino-Texas fusion eatery opened early this fall in East Austin. The menu oers a variety of alcoholic drinks as well as dishes such as Filipino- style ceviche, adobo and oxtail. • Opened Sept. 25 • 1100 E. Sixth St., Austin • www.okoaustin.com

Coee Greeks Nestled inside Silver Creek Collections, the business opened early this fall serving Greek food and drinks. The coee shop has a curated menu of coees and Greek frappes, savory dishes and Greek pastries. Customers can also shop for items from Greece at the market located inside. • Opened Sept. 26 • 1018 Main St., Bastrop • www.thehavengreekpastries.com

Jeremiah’s Italian Ice This Florida-based franchise is now serving over 40 Žavors of gelato, Italian ice and soft ice cream in Georgetown. • Opened Aug. 20 • 505 W. University Ave., Ste. F, Georgetown • www.jeremiahsice.com

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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BASTROP  CEDAR CREEK EDITION

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BASTROP  CEDAR CREEK EDITION

Celebrating Community:

A Season of Giving, A Year of Impact Since joining the Cornerstone family, Roscoe Bank has expanded our giving commitments across Bastrop. From supporting education to strengthening food security and offering disaster relief, we’re proud to celebrate the season of giving while looking ahead to a brighter, stronger community in the year to come. as expanded ng while looking

Join us in making a positive difference!

512.303.1800 710 Hwy 71 W. | Bastrop, TX 78602 Scan the QR code or visit us at houseloan.com/roscoe-bank

Roscoe Bank, a Division of Cornerstone Capital Bank, SSB. Member FDIC. NMLS ID #2258.

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