The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
Lake Travis Westlake Edition VOLUME 15, ISSUE 6 JULY 24 AUG. 20, 2024
2024 Home Edition
Cracking under pressure
Gregg points to her pool tiles cracking and separating—a common sign of ASR.
KAMERYN GRIESSER COMMUNITY IMPACT
Hundreds of Central Texas pool owners sue over concrete defect
mixtures that causes the shell of a pool to weaken and crack. In Travis and Williamson counties, hundreds of lawsuits are piling up as pool owners seek legal recourse against their builders.
Before long, Gregg learned she was among thou- sands of Central Texas pool owners burdened with the same mystery defect—”concrete cancer.” Primarily found in Austin-area pools built between 2017 and 2023, concrete cancer, also known as alkali silica reaction, or ASR, is a defect in concrete
BY KAMERYN GRIESSER
When Lakeway resident Jodi Gregg decided to build a pool in 2018, she dreamed it would stay in her family for generations. However, in mere months, those dreams began to crumble as she discovered spider-like cracks along the surface of her pool.
CONTINUED ON 36
Also in this issue Impacts: Milan Laser Hair Removal now open in Bee Cave (Page 8)
Premium sponsor
INSIDE
17
Dining: Lee’s Kitchen + Cocktails serves up family recipes (Page 41)
With neuro health, you get care from head to toe. From migraine to seizure disorders to brain and spine care, our team works by your side to create a plan made just for you. And with specialists all over Austin, you have the power to get advanced care close to home. You love to feel all the feels.
Find a specialist at BSWHealth.com/NeuroHealth
Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2024 Baylor Scott & White Health. 16-ATX-988250-NHI 2024_Launch
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Learning will never be this easy for your child again. Or as wondrous.
Did you know 90% of a child’s brain develops in the first five years? At Primrose schools in the Greater Austin Area, we make the most of this important time by helping children grow the mental, physical and emotional skills that will set them up for success in the classroom and beyond.
Learn more about the 17 Primrose schools in the Greater Austin Area.
Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a registered trademark of Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. ©2024 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All rights reserved.
3
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
THE ICONIC SAND DOLLAR HOUSE
819 MARINER - $1,990,000
GROSSMAN & JONES GROUP
512.470.3173 LUXEHOMESAUSTIN.COM LUXURY LEAGUE
Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
HOME FURNISHINGS I HOME DÉCOR I OUTDOOR LIVING I DESIGN SERVICES
DOMAIN NORTHSIDE AUSTIN Next to Perry’s Steakhouse 512.520.1740 I tbfurnitureaustin.com
5
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST AUSTIN’S LUXURY REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS The Drewett family, Texas natives and deeply rooted in family values, have called Austin home for over three decades. The Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. Drewett Group proudly stands as a pinnacle in Austin’s real estate scene focused on luxury homes, lakefront properties, land and investments. This distinction is exemplified through their enduring relationships, private networks, exclusive memberships, and their profound understanding of both the local and luxury real estate markets. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST
YOUR NEIGHBOR AND BARTON CREEK SPECIALIST
Beth provides concierge-level service to sellers, skillfully navigating the intricacies of the luxury home selling experience, and always striving to secure the best outcome for her clients.
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE WOODS I | Pool & park-like backyard
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES 3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
Barton Creek - 4816 Amarra Drive $4,450,000 | 4 bed | 4.5 bath | 4,466 SF | .81 AC
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE THE ESTATES | Traditional gem with garage apartment
REALTOR ®
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
REALTOR ® REALTOR ® REALTOR ® REALTOR ®
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES 2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com
hello
Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com
neighbor
I Live Here | I Work Here | I Get Results
8507 CHALK KNOLL DRIVE WOODS II | Golf course & views
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES 8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES Lake Austin – 8208 Big View Drive $7,650,000 | 5 Bed | 6.5 Bath | 6,728 SF | 1.01 AC
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All asurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, counting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES
YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST
Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.
3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES
Lake Pointe - 12005 Palisades Pointe Cove $2,395,000 | 5 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 5,400 SF | 0.594 AC
#3 TEAM
2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES
REALTOR ®
Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com
Patton Drewett Jr. 512.554.4299 Patton@DrewettRealEstate.com REALTOR®
Natalie Drewett 512.971.8820 Natalie@DrewettRealEstate.com REALTOR®
Hayes Drewett 512.284.6252 Hayes@DrewettRealEstate.com REALTOR®
8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES Barton Creek - 9100 Calera #10 $1,750,000 | 3 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,869 SF
All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
About Community Impact
Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Dacia Garcia Kameryn Griesser Sarah Hernandez Parks Kugle Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Gracie Warhurst Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia
Taylor Caranfa Stover General Manager tstover@ communityimpact.com
Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Managing Copy Editor Beth Marshall Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Art Production Manager Haley Grace Publisher Travis Baker
Grace Dickens Editor gdickens@ communityimpact.com
Jacqueline Harris Account Executive jharris@ communityimpact.com
Contact us
16225 Impact Way, Ste. 1 P ugerville, TX 78660 • 512 989 6808 CI Careers
Proudly printed by
Join CI Patron for exclusive newsletters and swag.
communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact ltwnews@communityimpact.com ltwads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising
Press releases
Advertising
© 2024 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
Email newsletters
communityimpact.com/newsletter
Do any of these symptoms sound familiar?
» Brain fog » Fatigue » Depression » Lack of energy » irritability » Anxiety
» Joint pain » Decreased libido » Hot flashes/ night sweats » Stubborn belly fat
512-487-7994 hello@herlihy-law.com scottherlihylaw.com
Biovitalitywellness.com 512.535.1088 located at Hill Country Galleria
If you experience one or more of the symptoms above, you may have a hormone imbalance. Age healthy with energy and vitality!
7
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
183
Impacts
2769
4 Bellissima Italian Mediterranean Restaurant
4 6
The family-owned and -operated Italian-Mediterranean restaurant’s menu includes dishes such as bruschetta, Greek salad, fresh pasta, risotto, veal, seafood and wood-fired pizza. It also serves desserts, such as tiramisu and cannolis. • Opened June 7 • 8300 N. RM 620, Bldg. K, Ste. 200, Austin • www.bellissimatx.com 5 Southern Steer Butcher The Florida-based butcher shop celebrated its Texas debut within the Lohman’s Crossing Shopping Center. The shop offers premium meats, sides, desserts, craft beers and wine, as well as preassembled meal packs. The franchise was founded in 2013. • Opened in June 6 The Drip Bar The business provides vitamins through IVs and shots as well as some beauty services. • Opened July 6 • 8300 N. RM 620, Ste. D600, Austin • www.thedripbar.com Austin Photo Booths The photo booth rental company began offering services in the Greater Austin area with multiple photo booth experiences for customers to choose from such as classic photo booths or a booth using 360-degree video. • Opened June 1 • www.austinphotobooths.com • 152300 Lohmans Spur Road, Lakeway • www.southernsteer.com/lakewaytx
620
HUDSON BEND RD.
LAKE TRAVIS
7
10
HART HALLOW DR. 1
3
71
2222
9
STEINER RANCH BLVD.
620
Lakeway
13
8
LOHMANS SPUR RD.
11
5
EMMA LONG PARK
COMMONS FORD RANCH
360
Bee Cave
ROLLINGWOOD DR.
BEE CAVE PKWY.
West Lake Hills
2 MARKET ST.
C
E
12 WALSH TARLTON LN.
14
71
HILL COUNTRY BLVD.
HAMILTON POOL RD.
MAP NOT TO SCALE
N TM; © 2024 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Bee Cave
have experienced amputation, folliculitis, polycystic ovarian syndrome and more, according to its website. • Opened April 8 • 12600 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. R134, Bee Cave • www.milanlaseraustin.com Rollingwood
BARTON CREEK HABITAT PRESERVE
Now open
1 DG Market The Dollar General-branded market provides expanded produce, meats, dairy, and frozen food offerings at discount prices, according to the company’s website. • Opened June 25 • 22508 W. Hwy. 71, Spicewood • www.dollargeneral.com 2 Milan Laser Hair Removal The laser hair removal clinic offers a wide range of services including arm and leg hair removal, facial hair removal and more. The clinic also serves guests who
MOPAC
Coming soon
3 Nabe Sushi The upscale, omakase-style restaurant owned by Tim Kwon offers a variety of bentos and sushi options such as sashimi and nigiri rolls, plus ramen, appetizers, salads, bowls, desserts, tempura and entrees. • Soft opening held May 22, grand opening slated for Aug. 16 • 10815 RM 2222, Bldg. 6, Ste. 213, Austin • www.nabesushi.com 71
7 Lake Travis Sports Academy Austin-based private school Alpha School is expanding its footprint with the opening of a new academy in the Hudson Bend area. The school for grades K-8 will specialize in athletics, physical education and sports. Tuition is $25,000 annually and enrollment is expected to be 150 students.
Our Services
For over 35 years, we've strived to ensure every patient is cared for like family. We offer an array of services across our 6 locations, making health care accessible and available.
For over 35 years, we've strived to ensure every patient is cared for like family. We offer an array of services across our 6 locations, making health care accessible and available.
• Preventive Health Care • Weight Loss Programs • Same Day Availability • Online Self Booking
• Virtual Visits • Acute Care
Your Family. Our Team. Good Health.
Your Family. Our Team. Good Health.
pfpdocs.com @pfpdocs
pfpdocs.com @pfpdocs
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
• Opening this fall • 4402 Hudson Bend Road, Austin • www.sportsacademy.school
Now open
Now open
Four Seasons Private Residences Lake Austin
Turnbridge Equities joined Austin Capital Partners in June as a co-developer on the upcoming Lake Austin residential community. Construction is expected to begin this fall on the project that will offer residences on 145 acres. • Opening late 2027 • Near the Loop 360 and RM 2222 intersection • www.lakeaustinresidences.com
Worth the trip
10 Enchanted Forest Ice Cream The locally-owned treat shop is located in the Four Points area and serves a variety of Hershey’s ice cream flavors, bakery treats and coffee drinks, owner Fred Dodge said. The business also offers custom party catering for up to 100 guests. • Opened June 30 • 6812 N. RM 620, Austin • Facebook: Enchanted Forest Ice Cream
13 TexARTS Association for Visual and Performing Arts The nonprofit arts organization opened a new permanent facility in Lakeway. The new performing arts center will host a theatre academy, productions and various other art-based events. The fall show season will be announced in August, business manager Elena Reid said. • Opened May 28 • 1110 S. RM 620, Lakeway • www.tex-arts.org
Splash Safari Aqua Park Horseshoe Bay Resort opened its seasonal floating obstacle course in May for members of their club and resort guests 6 and older for $25 per person. The course sits on Lake LBJ and is open Wednesday through Sunday for 90-minute sessions through Sept. 1. Guests must be 42 inches tall, and the course includes slides, climbing walls and balance beams. • Opened in May • 200 Hi Circle North, Horseshoe Bay • www.hsbresort.com
In the news
dental care, according to a news release. • 5145 N. RM 620, Ste. F140, Austin • www.cityvet.com
accounts and loans. • 3103 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 110, Austin • www.r.bank
8 Frost Financial Center Construction on the new banking center is set to begin in January, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The Texas-based Frost Bank operates 187 financial centers across the state and offers investment, insurance, ATM and notary services. • 1408 S. RM 620, Lakeway • www.frostbank.com 9 CityVet The nationwide network of veterinarian-owned practices CityVet announced the acquisition of The Animal Hospital at Steiner Ranch in June. The primary care pet clinic will extend operating hours throughout the week and expand its services to offer surgery and
11 Stokes Sign Company The custom sign, printing and fabrication store will celebrate 30 years of business in August. Nancy Stokes Hearn started the company in 1994 as a one-woman team, Sales Representative Juliette Ramirez said. • 1909 S. RM 620, Lakeway • www.stokessigncompany.com 12 R Bank The bank celebrated its 15th anniversary on June 22. R Bank provides a variety of personal and business banking services, including checking accounts, savings
Closings
14 China Steakhouse After over four years in business, the Bee Cave restaurant closed in June. The spot served authentic Chinese cuisine, including grilled meat entrees, as well as noodle and fried rice dishes, according to its website. Restaurant owners did not respond to requests for comment on the reason for the closure. • Closed in June • 15511 Hwy. 71, Ste. 130, Bee Cave
RICK COFER AUSTIN’S GO-TO CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
COFERCONNELLY.COM • 602 W. 11 TH ST., AUSTIN, TX 78701 • 512-200-3801
9
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY KAMERYN GRIESSER
Gas utility costs could increase at least $6 In the coming months, some Austin-area residents could see their monthly utility bills for natural gas services increase by more than $6. What happened? On June 3, Texas Gas Service released a state- ment of intent about the rate increases to munici- palities within the Austin area. According to the statement, the changes were effective July 8. However, some cities, such as West Lake Hills, Bee Cave and Pflugerville, have passed resolutions to suspend the changes for an additional 90 days to review the terms. If a city does not take action within that period, the rate increases will be implemented, according to city documents. Depending on the size of the property, custom- ers of TGS can expect to pay an average of $6.26 to $9.53 more on their monthly bills.
Google Fiber coming soon to Lakeway Within the next two years, the Lakeway community will have access to Google Fiber’s high-speed and high-bandwidth internet services. The details During a June 17 meeting, Lakeway City Council unanimously approved a license agreement allowing Google Fiber to begin installing its fiber-optic infrastructure in the city’s public rights of way. The company plans to begin construc- tion and roll out its network services to customers in late 2025, according to a staff report. Google Fiber will pay 1% of its gross revenues back to the city in exchange for the license, the staff report states. Cables are installed into shallow trenches dug along- side the curb of public rights of way.
Cost changes Updated rates depend on dwelling size.
Average monthly bill without new rates
Average monthly bill with new rates
Small residential dwelling customers
$41.76
14.99%
$48.02
Large residential dwelling customers
$67.28
14.16%
$76.81
SOURCE: TEXAS NATURAL GAS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The proposed rate increases are intended to recoup over $25.7 million in revenue lost from both COVID-19 and Winter Storm Uri maintenance costs, according to the statement. The service cites inflation, supply chain issues, labor shortages and ongoing infrastructure improvements as other reasons for the increases.
Bee Cave area returns to twice-per-week watering
Watering schedules
Addresses ending in 0-3: Addresses ending in 4-6: Addresses ending in 7-9:
Monday & Thursday
Home and business owners who do not follow the restrictions could receive a fine, according to the WTCPUA. Additionally, if more than 85% of WTCPUA’s plant capacity is used for three days consecutively, the agency will move back to once-per-week watering. If persistent drought causes the combined lake capacity to drop below 45%, the LCRA will mandate once-per-week watering once again.
As lake levels rise due to recent rains, Bee Cave, Lake Pointe and portions of northern Hays County moved back to Stage 1 water restrictions in June, which limit outdoor watering to twice per week. Established by the West Travis County Public Utilities Agency to evenly spread use throughout the week, residents and businesses may only water between 7 p.m.-10 a.m. on assigned days.
Tuesday & Friday
Wednesday & Saturday
Commercial customers:
Tuesday & Friday
SOURCE: WEST TRAVIS COUNTY PUBLIC UTILITIES AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
We empower YOU as you work toward your financial goals. START PLANNING YOUR FUTURE! (512) 879-9606 | Chris.Coffin@lplfinancial.com
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC
11
LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION
Education
BY BROOKE SJOBERG & CHLOE YOUNG
Stagnant state funding brings shortfalls for Central Texas ISDs
when it was raised to $6,160. Since this adjustment, Azaiez estimates costs have gone up about 20%. If the basic allotment were adjusted for inflation, it would be closer to $7,342 per student in 2024, per projections from Hays CISD using Texas Education Agency data. In June, when Round Rock ISD passed a $466 million balanced budget, it was one of few expected to do so in Central Texas, board President Amber Landrum said. The district identified $30 million in budget cuts to have its expenditures equal its revenues. Similarly, Bastrop ISD was able to pass a balanced $173.12 million budget in June after making cuts. About 43% of school districts in Texas are expecting to make budget cuts going into fiscal year 2024-25, per the Texas Association of School Business Officials.
With budget season wrapping up for many Central Texas school districts, officials are contending with higher operating costs amid stagnant funding. Administrators have shared they are experiencing heightened cost pressures this year compared to recent years due to increases in the cost of insurance, fuel and other goods vital to the operation of public schools. “You’ve probably heard the word ‘inflation’ many times,” Round Rock ISD Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez said to the board of trustees in a May 18 meeting. “I’m sure you feel it yourself as you go out to buy groceries or if you have to fix something in your house. Everything is costing more.” These rising costs come as the basic allotment— one of the primary kinds of state funding calculated using a district’s average daily attendance—has not been increased since 2019,
Flat funding The basic allotment is state funding to public and charter schools based on attendance.
Actual basic allotment
Basic allotment if adjusted for inflation
$8K
$7K
$6K
0
2019-20 2021-22 2023-24 2025-26*
*PROJECTED
SOURCES: HAYS CONSOLIDATED INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Stay tuned
What are the options?
Throughout the budget planning process, area school administrators shared different strategies for reducing their planned expenditures, such as eliminating unfilled positions, increasing class sizes and reducing departmental budgets. In several cases, such as in GISD, staffing was decreased by eliminating unfilled positions and reassigning staff as needed, Superintendent Devin Padavil said. Along with cutting vacant positions, Lake Travis ISD passed its lowest compensation increase in over a decade at 1% for FY 2024-25. Liberty Hill ISD—which is projecting its largest budget shortfall in recent years at $8.5 million—may ask voters to approve a tax rate increase through a voter-approval tax rate election, or VATRE. If approved by voters, this will allow the district to have a higher tax rate than otherwise allowed by the state, per the TEA. If a VATRE is not called for November, the district’s fund balance is projected to be completely depleted by 2026, according to district information. Despite cutting costs, many districts are expected to adopt some of their largest shortfalls in recent years. North East ISD in San Antonio; San Marcos and Hays CISDs; and Austin, Dripping Springs, Eanes, Georgetown, Hutto and Leander ISDs have passed shortfall budgets or are planning to pass budgets with shortfalls.
Looking ahead to January and the start of the next legislative session, many districts have established school funding as their top priority. Member districts have asked the Texas Association of School Boards to advocate on their behalf, in addition to communicating with community members about advocating for increased state funding. This comes as Texas lawmakers have attempted to tie increases in basic allotment funding to the approval of an educational savings account program that would have provided public funds to families who choose to enroll their children in private schools. In legislative sessions held in 2023, a measure including a $540 increase to the basic allotment failed after legislators stripped House Bill 1 of a provision including educational savings accounts. Going into the next legislative session, interim charges released in May by Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan— or the directives of what house committees should study—did not include increases to the basic allotment.
Regional shortfalls
Austin ISD $41.25M*
Bastrop ISD $0
Dripping Springs ISD
$2.77M
$1.2M
Eanes ISD
Georgetown ISD
$4.59M
$3.5M
Hutto ISD
Lake Travis ISD
$3.98M**
$13.09M
Leander ISD
Liberty Hill ISD
$8.57M**
Pflugerville ISD
$6.9M**
Round Rock ISD
$0
*ASSUMES A VATRE PASSES IN NOVEMBER; THE SHORTFALL WOULD BE $78.2 MILLION WITHOUT A SUCCESSFUL VATRE **THESE BUDGETS HAVE NOT YET BEEN PASSED
12
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY CHLOE YOUNG
Alpha School to bring new AI-based academies to the Austin area Austin-based private school Alpha School is expanding its footprint with the opening of three new academies. This fall, Alpha School will open GT School for Gifted and Talented in Georgetown, Esports Acad- emy in Northwest Austin, and Lake Travis Sports Academy in the Hudson Bend area. The private school aims to expedite students’ learning process and academic growth using arti - cial intelligence, co-founder MacKenzie Price said. The setup Alpha School was founded in 2014 to provide students with personalized, accelerated instruction and opportunities to build life skills beyond the classroom, Price said. The private school has an existing K-8 academy and a high school in Austin, and campuses in Brownsville and Miami. Students complete their academic coursework in two hours each day through the school’s 2hr Learning program. The AI platform tutors students at their own pace, allowing them to work twice as fast as they would at traditional schools, Price said. Classrooms are overseen by guides instead of teachers who o er motivational and emotional support to students, she said. “Each and every child is able to learn so much better and more e ciently when they receive one- to-one personalized education that goes exactly at their pace and at their appropriate level,” Price said. Students spend the remainder of their school day developing life skills, such as entrepreneurship,
Alpha School students will participate in accelerated academic activities at its three academies opening this fall.
COURTESY ALPHA SCHOOL
The following school will open in Hudson Bend this fall: Lake Travis Sports Academy
leadership, public speaking and nancial literacy, she said. At the new Alpha School academies, students can grow speci c interest areas, including video games, advanced academics and sports. Quote of note “Austin is becoming the Silicon Valley of education,” Price said. “There are so many incredible options in the area and 2hr Learning is really going to put Austin on the map in terms of education, innovation and real results that are going to totally change the landscape of what’s possible with K-12 education.” Learn more The three new academies are accepting online applications for the 2024-25 school year, Price said. She said Alpha School is looking to open a charter school in 2026.
Students spend two hours on core academics in the morning and four hours on sports training in the afternoon. Some options for training include swimming relays, triathlon relays, mini marathon challenges, obstacle courses, yoga and referee training. • Specialty: athletics, physical education and sports • Grades: K-8 • Expected enrollment: 150 students • Tuition: $25,000 per year
SOONER ST.
D
4402 Hudson Bend Road, Austin www.sportsacademy.school
Thai Massage • Prenatal Thai Massage • Hand & Foot Reflexology • Chair Massage • Facial Massage
BRING IN THIS AD FOR ��% OFF YOUR FIRST VISIT! *GOOD THRU OCT ����, CAN’T BE COMBINED
2525 Wallingwood Dr #1501 (off MOPAC at Rollingwood Exit) Austin, TX 78746 zenwell.com • (512) 387-5953
13
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
20% OFF FRAMING SERVICES
DROP OFF AND PICK UP AT EITHER OF OUR LOCATIONS, OR CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE A DESIGN CONSULTATION. SCAN OR VISIT WCC. ART/FRAME-SHOP TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT MENTION THIS AD TO ENJOY 20% OFF YOUR ORDER
16746 FITZHUGH RD #207 DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX 78620 | 512. 296. 2242
1009 W 6TH ST, #120 AUSTIN, TX 78703 | 512.478.4440
BE SAFE DRIVE SMART Driving safety is everyone's responsibility. Stay safe on the road during your summer travels with these tips. Driving safety is everyone's responsibility. Stay safe on the road during your summer travels with these tips.
Keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and your mind on driving. Obey speed limits and traffic laws. Move over or slow down for vehicles pulled to the side of the road. Wear your seat belt. Never drink and drive. Check your tires, windshield wipers and brake lights. Keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and your mind on driving. Obey speed limits and traffic laws. Move over or slow down for vehicles pulled to the side of the road. Wear your seat belt. Never drink and drive. Check your tires, windshield wipers and brake lights.
Visit www.mobilityauthority.com to learn more about our initiatives and discover how you can contribute to safer driving in Central Texas. Visit www.mobilityauthority.com to learn more about our initiatives and discover how you can contribute to safer driving in Central Texas.
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY ELLE BENT & KAMERYN GRIESSER
More customs, border o cers headed to ABIA More customs and border protection o cers will be stationed at the Austin-Bergstrom Interna- tional Airport this year. The gist By this fall, four new CBP o cers will join the airport’s 15 o cers, increasing the total number of o cers by 25%. At ABIA, these o cers supervise commercial passengers arriving from another country as well as cargo, general aviation passengers and ve foreign-trade zones. Increasing CBP o cers may help customs move quicker, a news release stated. How it happened In May, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D Austin, sent a letter to CBP o cials, urging for more o cers amid increased passenger volumes and an ongoing airport expansion program.
“For years, a shortage of CBP o cers has been an obstacle to securing new
MAIN ST.
international ights and a source of major
LOHMANS CROSSING RD.
inconvenience to incoming international passengers and local businesses awaiting incoming cargo.” U.S. REP. LLOYD DOGGETT, D AUSTIN
620
N
Main Street extension delayed to 2025 Work on a road connecting major parts of Lakeway’s new City Center has been delayed from this summer to June 2025 due to wastewater logistics requiring the installa- tion of a new lift station. Regional water districts required devel- opers to add a new wastewater lift station to the site in March 2023 due to how many new residential units were planned, resulting in the project stalling, developer Bill Hayes said at the June 17 City Council meeting.
Arrivals to ABIA more than doubled between 2019 and 2023, according to o cials, and air tra c as a whole has doubled in the last ve years. In 2022, ABIA was categorized as a large-hub airport by the Federal Aviation Administration, Doggett said. The growth isn’t slowing down, as 2023 was the airport’s busiest on record, beating 2022 as the busiest year by over a million more passengers. In 2024 so far, four days made the list of top ten busiest days at ABIA, o cials reported.
15
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
LIVE LIFE WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Choosing the right senior living community is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Care and safety come first, but lifestyle and independence are important too. At Belmont Village, you’ll find it all. An experienced staff, 24/7 licensed nurses, award-winning enrichment and memory programs in a luxurious and attentive environment. And unlike most, we build, own, and operate all of our communities. So residents can count on the continuity of those high standards, never compromising on the things that matter.
Learn more at BelmontVillage.com/Austin
Licensed nurse on-site 24/7 | Dedicated Alzheimer’s care | Circle of Friends® award-winning memory care Physical therapy, rehabilitation and fitness | Nationally recognized, highly trained staff
©2024 Belmont Village, L.P. | ALF 105870, 107187
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
BY HALEY MCLEOD
Home Edition
2024
Readers, welcome to your annual CI Home Edition! This guide features news ranging from key real estate trends and new developments unique to your neighborhood to an overview of the housing industry across Texas. All of the stories were written by our team of local journalists, and all of the advertisements are from nearby businesses who support our mission to provide free, useful news—show them your gratitude by supporting local businesses. The lead story in our Annual Home edition addresses the phenomenon of “concrete cancer” in pools. We are proud of our reporting on this ongoing situation, as it is devastating homeowners and businesses alike. We hope you nd the coverage useful.
Premium sponsor:
Taylor Caranfa Stover General Manager tstover@ communityimpact.com
Belmont Village Senior Living BelmontVillage.com/Austin 844 225 7788
Best-in-class care and luxury hospitality are at your ngertips at Belmont Village Senior Living.
What's inside
Experts provide solutions to landscaping problems (Page 19)
Over 5M Texans vulnerable to ooding, report nds (Page 24)
Solar panel industry on the rise in Texas (Page 33)
Sponsor: Wurzel Builders Custom Homes
Central Texas home valuations decline as market slows Homeowners are able to challenge their appraisal valuations annually by ling a protest with their county’s appraisal district, the deadline for which was May 15. Central Texas appraised home values Travis County
This year’s release of appraisal valuations from the Travis Central Appraisal District indicated the overall average appraisal values for residential properties are lower than in recent years. The overview “Values have de nitely come down,” Chief Appraiser Alvin Lankford of the Williamson County Central Appraisal District said during an update to commissioners on June 4. “Mainly, [it’s] because the increase in interest rates slowed the market down, but also because builders aren’t constructing as many homes as prior years.” According to a news release from the Travis Central Appraisal District, the median market value for residential properties in Travis County in 2024 is $551,419, representing a 12.8% decline since 2022. The median value of residential homes in Williamson County for 2024 is $412,310, a small drop from the $414,869 seen in 2023, but a 12.9% drop from $473,325 in 2022. Market values don’t directly result in a change in property tax bills, the release said. Instead, these values help decide a property owner’s portion of the total tax levy. The total tax amount is based on the budgets set by local governments, such as cities, counties and school districts.
Williamson County
A total of 186,206 individual protests were led in Travis County and over 82,300 were led in Williamson County. Each appraisal district reviews lings and evidence submitted, typically issuing a settlement. If a settlement is not accepted, a formal hearing will be scheduled. While sales and property values have stabilized since 2022, residents can expect to continue to see an annual increase of 10% to their property’s tax value, Lankford said, explaining that the increase will continue until the market value and the taxable value align, per state tax code. As of 2024, the total market value for Travis County is roughly $488 billion, an increase of 5.8% year over year. What else? Clare Knapp, local housing economist with the Austin Board of Realtors, also predicts interest rates will remain at for the rest of the year. “I don’t think that we’re going to see any signi cant movements in rates, especially over
$750K
$551,419
$632,208
$625K
$500K
$375K
$250K
$473,325
$412,310
$125K
$0
SOURCES: TRAVIS CENTRAL APPRAISAL DISTRICT, WILLIAMSON CENTRAL APPRAISAL DISTRICT COMMUNITY IMPACT
this year or even moving into 2025. ... If you’re a rst-time buyer waiting on the sidelines now, well, you’re missing out on building wealth, too,” Knapp said.
17
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
We care about you and your life in this house, which is why we will be beside you every step of the way Ready To Build Your Dream Home?
BUILDING WITH CARE
BUILDING IN COLLABORATION
BUILDING THE RIGHT WAY
Bringing 45+ years of experience into the thriving Greater Austin residential development industry.
737-802-3852
WURZELBUILDERSCUSTOMHOMES.COM
Best choose your retirement path carefully. EVERY TRAIL HAS SOME PUDDLES.
When you’re tired of living like a tumbleweed, plant yourself at Longhorn Village.
Scan the code to explore our floor plans. Call 512.201.2102 to schedule a tour.
12501 Longhorn Pkwy. - Austin, TX 78732 LonghornVillage.com
The Longhorn Village lifestyle is open to everyone, regardless of collegiate affiliation.
INDEPENDENT LIVING AND A FULL CONTINUUM OF CARE
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
BY BRITTANY ANDERSON
As Austin Metropolitan Area cities remain in stage 1, 2 or 3 water restrictions in response to varying drought conditions, homeowners have to keep these restrictions in mind when landscaping—whether they’re buying, selling or staying where they are. Adam Mosier, co-owner of Austin custom homebuilder Mosier Luxury Homes, and Kent Redding, Austin Board of Realtors 2024 president, shared their insight on the most e ective water restriction-friendly landscaping and how this can impact the local housing market. Mosier said there are many variables his team must consider when contracting with landscape installation contractors and thinking about a landscape plan for clients. As an added layer to city regulations, Mosier said compliance with local homeowners associations or decades-old deed restrictions frequently require installations that are “in direct con ict with newly enacted city regulations.” Experts share landscaping tips
Something to note
There are various methods for landscaping to follow city rules and still enjoy your lawn.
When it comes to the real estate market, Mosier said most homeowners will plant what they can a ord and easily nd. However, for potential sellers, Redding encourages them to get prepared a month or two in advance of listing in light of potential water restrictions and to separate themselves from competition. Austin has nearly ve months of housing inven- tory and is shifting from a balanced market to a buyers market, Redding said. With more houses available, many people start the homebuying process online—so it’s important for sellers to put e ort into what they’re showing, but this doesn’t have to be a costly process, Redding said. “I want them to use organic ll dirt, things like that in their yard—the things that retain water well—in advance of listing and taking photos, so that we just don’t all of a sudden show up for photos and everything is brown,” Redding said.
Planting native and drought-resistant plants
Using mulch to retain water
Incorporating hardscape into the lawn
COURTESY AUSTIN WATER
SOURCE: AUSTIN WATER, MOSIER LUXURY HOMES COMMUNITY IMPACT
Things to keep in mind To install landscaping while considering drought conditions and water restrictions, Mosier recommends: Installing smart irrigation systems, which modify watering schedules depending on the weather Considering rainwater collection as a source for irrigation Using a balanced design of drought-resistant plants; arti cial turf; and hardscaping, or gravel Incorporating drought- and heat-tolerant native plants
Major takeaways
On the buyer side, Redding said not many let a lack of a lawn or landscaping a ect their decision, but it’s still important to keep water restrictions in mind while browsing neighborhoods. “I would usually advise them not to get hung up on landscapes because that can be xed,” Redding said. “That’s an item that as a buyer, you have the opportunity as a new homeowner to make some changes, whereas the price, the view, the oor plan—sometimes you don’t have exibility there.”
"Municipalities should heavily favor incentivizing homeowners over regulating landscape plans that restrict the installation of speci c plants and products."
ADAM MOSIER, CO OWNER OF AUSTIN CUSTOM HOMEBUILDER MOSIER LUXURY HOMES
Hear Better to Live Better. At The Hills Hearing Center, we offer personalized hearing healthcare services for you to hear your best and live your best life! • Hearing testing and evaluation • Ear wax removal • Tinnitus management • Hearing aid cleanings and repairs • In-home appointments available — we come to you!
FREE • Personal hearing consultation • Live demonstration of the new Widex SmartRIC™
Call today! (512) 294-2229 3500 Ranch Road 620 S, Suite F200 | Bee Cave, TX 78738 www.thehillshearingcenter.com
Geovany Gamez, HIS Hearing Specialist
Offers expire 9/30/24
19
LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION
Real estate
BY KAMERYN GRIESSER
The Lake Travis region has long been known as a vacation destination, but with the creation of homestay apps, such as Airbnb and Vrbo, short-term rentals, or STRs, have come under increasing scrutiny by local governments. Texas does not issue state-level permits for STRs. Instead, they are regulated at the city or county level, and policies vary widely. Within the past decade, individual cities within the Lake Travis-Westlake area have created their own rules surrounding STRs, which can be found in each city’s code of ordinances. Residents within unincorporated areas of Travis County are still required to le state hotel occupancy tax reports, according to Texas law. How local cities regulate STRs
West Lake Hills STR de nition: renting or leasing a dwelling owned by a city resident to a guest for 30 consecutive days or less Policy: The city must notify property owners within 300 feet of a permitted property. Guesthouses, trailers and RVs can’t be used as STRs, and STRs can’t cause tra c, development or noise issues. Violations: A property that receives three complaints in a one-year period will have its permit revoked. • Latest update: Rules updated in 2021 send STR approvals through the city administrator. Violations: A violation of this article is a misdemeanor punishable by a criminal penalty of up to $2,000 per day. Residents can report suspected code violations to the city administrator. • Latest update: The city irst approved its STR policy in 2010 and adopted updates to the violations portion of the ordinance in August 2019. Rollingwood STR de nition: the rental of any (residential) property for a period of less than 30 days Policy: The city’s code of ordinances states STRs are prohibited and considered unlawful.
The breakdown
Bee Cave has no rules or regulations surround- ing STRs. Here are the rules for other nearby cities.
Lakeway STR de nition: the rental, tenancy or similar nonowner occupancy of residential property, by any form of compensation, for one to 27 consecutive days Policy: The city code of ordinances provides 25 STR permits to single-family residential properties over 1,000 feet from each other and an unlimited number of condo permits. The code stipulates a two-night minimum stay for STRs and orders permitted properties to comply with city noise, trash and parking regulations. Violations: Code violations can be reported to nonemergency police at night and code compliance during the day. • Latest update: While previous rules sent STR applications through City Council as well as the zoning and planning commission, a February update now sends permits through city administration for approval, Lakeway of icials said.
SOURCE: CITY OF LAKEWAY, CITY OF ROLLINGWOOD, CITY OF WEST LAKE HILLSCOMMUNITY IMPACT
Size of the industry The STR industry is projected to grow in 2024, according to AirDNA, an STR data and analytics company.
What else?
“We have to walk that tightrope of preserving Lakeway’s culture, which was founded
Austin was among the rst cities in the state to introduce regulations for STRs in 2012, but a federal court case in August rendered the city’s ordinance unconstitutional. Additionally, in recent years, state lawmakers have looked to further restrict a city’s ability to prohibit STRs, but no such laws have passed. City sta for Lakeway and West Lake Hills said they have not observed a large issue of unpermitted STRs.
$64B in STR revenues
nationwide in 2023
on vacationing, and protecting our residents.”
2.4M vacation rental listings nationwide in 2023
JOSEPH MOLIS, LAKEWAY CITY MANAGER
10.7% anticipated increased demand nationwide for STRs in 2024
SOURCE: AIRDNA COMMUNITY IMPACT
POWER UP YOUR POTENTIAL
At MYO Mind & Body, you can expect an experience that will transform your MIND and BODY! We offer rejuvenating body work, biomechanics personal training, unique bio-hacking modalities, nutrition & lifestyle coaching as well as recovery support using a NXPro.
Special Offer: Free 60 minute session Book online or call/text 813-998-5004
BACK & HIP PAIN | FROZEN SHOULDER | SOFT-TISSUE & OVER-TRAINING INJURIES | SURGERY RECOVERY SWOLLEN JOINTS | TENNIS OR GOLFERS ELBOW | PLANTAR FASCIITIS | & MUCH MORE
907 Ranch Rd. 620 South, Ste. 101-B, Lakeway, TX 78734
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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 48Powered by FlippingBook