Pflugerville - Hutto Edition | April 2024

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Pugerville Hutto Edition VOLUME 19, ISSUE 8 APRIL 10MAY 9, 2024

2024 Voter Guide

Students walk through campus at Texas State University Round Rock, which is expanding programs to boost the area’s workforce.

COURTESY TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY ROUND ROCK

Area colleges invest more than $180M to meet workforce needs

chief solutions ocer. “We have to anticipate what’s coming down the pipe. That’s why you’re seeing all these expansions in training through [local higher education institutions] because they know what’s coming.”

Community College at Round Rock and Texas State Technical College in Hutto are spending over $180 million combined to expand programs in health care, technology, manufacturing and skilled trades. “We denitely have more jobs coming in,” said Kelly Moreno, Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area

BY ELLE BENT

As Central Texas’ population grows, so does its workforce and the jobs needed in the region. Higher education institutions in Williamson County are working to accommodate that need. Texas State University at Round Rock, Austin

CONTINUED ON 27

Also in this issue

Impacts: Crux Climbing Center to open this summer (Page 9)

Government: Hutto revises amphitheater deal (Page 13)

Transportation: Check out 7 road projects in Hutto (Page 14)

Education: PfISD reading uency up (Page 15)

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Specialized treatment and procedures for women and children.

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The new state-of-the-art �� million facility is now seeing patients for all kinds of care, from the simple to the most complex. All the life-changing care and world-class physicians of Texas Children’s Hospital bring a new level of care to Austin. It’s the right doctors. The right care. All right here in Austin.

See why the difference is life-changing at texaschildrensaustin.org.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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

Market leaders & metro team

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

Amy Leonard Bryant General Manager abryant@ communityimpact.com

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

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Heather Hall Account Executive hhall@ communityimpact.com

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

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CHAMBER CONNECTION

April 24 Time with the Mayor Free (Open to the public) • 8-9 a.m. at Tru by Hilton Pflugerville • 18700 Hill Top Commercial Dr., Pflugerville

April 11 Business After Hours 5-7 p.m. The Victory Tap, 111 E. Main St., Pflugerville April 18 Blü Apartments ribbon cutting 12-12:30 p.m. 9500 Dessau Rd, Austin April 23 Brio Apartments ribbon cutting 12-12:30 p.m. 705 E Olympic Dr, Pflugerville April 26 Morning Edition 8-9 a.m. Biltmore Apartments, 16021 Biltmore Ave., Pflugerville

April 30 Hawaii Fluid Art ribbon cutting 12-12:30 p.m. 1513 Stone Hill Dr., Ste. 300, Pflugerville May 2 STATE OF THE CITY Luncheon 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Courtyard by Marriott Pflugerville Conference Center 16100 Impact Way, Pflugerville • $75 thru 4/14; $85 after 4/15 Sponsorships available. Register online

Join us! Events Calendar

May 9 Business After Hours 5-7 p.m. Homes with Hall Realty 15901 Central Commerce Dr. #201, Pflugerville

April 27 Slice of Pflugerville 9 a.m.-noon Historic Downtown Pflugerville. Open to the public; free to attend

101 South 3rd Street | Pflugerville, Texas 78660 | 512.251.7799 | info@pfchamber.com

PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

Impacts

Hair removal services provided by Relax and Wax include bikini, under arms and facial waxing as well as sugaring. • Opened March 5 • 110 N. I-35, Ste. 130, Round Rock • www.relaxandwax.com 5 Smile Solutions Dentistry The dentistry practice offers comprehensive dental services in the Round Rock area. Owned by Dr. Bruce Beheshtin, DDS, patients receive customized care with special considerations for those who may have anxiety around dental work. • Opened Feb. 21 6 Swallow Wines The winery and tasting venue is located in a space formerly occupied by Round Rock Travel & Cruises. The venue also includes a private space intended for small dinner parties and wine-tasting events. • Opened Feb. 29 • 407 Round Rock Ave., Round Rock • www.swallow-wines.com • 4337 Teravista Club Drive, Round Rock • www.smilesolutionsroundrock.com

Round Rock

TERAVISTA CLUB DR.

SAM BASS RD.

1431

MAYS ST.

A.W. GRIMES BLVD.

Austin

ROUND ROCK AVE.

DEER RIDGE DR.

620

TOWN CENTRE DR.

130 TOLL

LA FRONTERA BLVD.

620

LOUIS HENNA BLVD.

45 TOLL

Coming soon

MOPAC

MAP NOT TO SCALE

7 Chick-fil-A A representative told Community Impact the city’s third location of the restaurant chain is expected to open this summer. • Opening this summer • 109 Deer Ridge Drive, Round Rock • www.chick-fil-a.com 8 Dirty Dough Cookies The bakery, which specializes in stuffed cookies, will open a shop in the Round Rock Crossing retail center. The business offers stuffed cookies, with a rotating menu of weekly flavors and a standing menu of classic flavors, for delivery, pickup and purchase in-store. • Opening TBD • 121 Louis Henna Blvd., Round Rock • www.dirtydoughcookies.com

Round Rock

The studio’s services include men’s grooming and include haircuts, beard grooming, facial hair waxing and massage. • Opened Feb. 5 • 2711 La Frontera Blvd., Ste. 110, Round Rock • www.hairbyhali512.com 3 Nothing Bundt Cakes The bakery, which specializes in bundt cakes, offers a variety of flavors paired with its signature cream cheese frosting. • Opened Feb. 29 • 3021 S. I-35, Ste. 130, Round Rock • www.nothingbundtcakes.com 4 Relax and Wax Authentic Brazilian Wax The skin care studio opened in Round Rock in early March.

Now open

1 Finding Flow Pilates The boutique studio, owned by certified instructor Claire Kinchen, offers private and small-group Pilates classes for a variety of skill levels. • Opened Jan. 16 • 102 E. Main St., Ste. A, Round Rock • www.findingflowpilates.com 2 Hair By Hali The private barber studio, owned by Halima Arroyo, opened inside of MySalonSuite in Round Rock in February.

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9 Dutch Bros Coffee A fourth Round Rock location will open near RM 620 toward the end of the year, a company representative confirmed. The coffee chain offers hot and cold beverages, such as cold brew and frozen coffee, as well as its own energy drink and muffins. • Opening in late 2024 • 111 Deer Ridge Drive, Round Rock • www.dutchbros.com 10 Huk Gear The fishing gear outfitter will open its first Texas store in the Round Rock Premium Outlets, a representative of Simon Malls confirmed March 25. The store offers fishing gear for men, women and children, and will open in a space between the Crocs and Pacsun retail stores. • Opening this summer • 4401 N. I-35, Ste. 821, Round Rock • www.hukgear.com 11 Tim Horton’s A location of the franchise is planned to open between Austin and Round Rock. The Canadian coffee chain also

Now open

14 The Point ATX The new Latin social club and tapas bar opened in February with the aim of bringing together Latin dance music, craft cocktails and conversation. • Opened Feb. 7 • 910 Round Rock Ave., Round Rock • www.thepointatx.com

16 Salad and Go The drive-thru restaurant chain offers nine types of salads and wraps as well as breakfast burritos, lemonades, teas and cold-brew coffee. • Opened March 12 • 101 Deer Ridge Drive, Round Rock • www.saladandgo.com

serves a variety of breakfast items. • Opening in late 2024 or early 2025

• 16201 RM 620, Austin • www.timhortons.com

Relocations

• Relocated in February • 2021 N. Mays St., Ste. 100, Round Rock • www.mrgattispizza.com

Closings

12 Forest Ridge Calvary Chapel The former Calvary Chapel Austin will move from Pfluger- ville to a new location in Round Rock where it will serve the community under the new name Forest Ridge Calvary Chapel. The church is run by Pastor Terry Michaels. • Relocated March 17 • 1535 Red Bud Lane, Round Rock • www.calvaryaustin.com 13 Mr. Gatti’s Pizza The pizzeria relocated from Rock Creek Plaza in February. The business moved across Mays Street into a newly built addition to the Sundial Plaza retail center. The former location of the pizza shop will soon be home to a JuiceLand location.

17 Spy Shop Round Rock The security system supplier closed its retail store and now offers its safety products online only. • Closed in January • 105 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Ste. 110, Round Rock • www.spyshoproundrock.com 18 Wings and Rings The sports bar franchise location, which served chicken wings, closed its doors in February. • Closed Feb. 24 • 1901 Town Centre Drive, Round Rock • www.wingsandrings.com

In the news

15 Chasco Family YMCA Board members held a groundbreaking for a new aquatics center—to be named the Carl and Deanna Miller Family Pool—in February. It will be located behind the

existing YMCA facility. • Opening in October • 1812 N. Mays St., Round Rock • www.ymca.org

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PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

Impacts

138

Pflugerville

A.W. GRIMES BLVD.

45 TOLL

RED BUD LN.

TOWN CENTER DR.

130 TOLL

Now open

1 The Branch Workspace at JLA The workspace facility includes a variety of conference rooms, offices and workstations available for rent by the hour and day. • Opened Jan. 1 • 601 E. Pecan St., Pflugerville • info@jerrylawyer.com 2 Hawaii Fluid Art The art studio, owned by David Watkins, opened to provide artists of every level a space to try new art techniques in a professional setting. The company provides a variety of classes, materials and workshops. • Opened March 9 • 1513 Stone Hill Drive, Ste. 300, Pflugerville • www.hawaiifluidart.com

GREENLAWN BLVD.

STONE HILL DR.

685

TERRELL LN.

130 TOLL

Pugerville

VISION DR.

685

OXFORD DR.

Coming soon

3 Valero Dirt is turning on the construction of a new Valero gas station and small retail center off Oxford Drive

MAP NOT TO SCALE

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in Pflugerville, adjacent to the Cambridge Villas apartment complex. • Opening in September • 601 Oxford Drive, Pflugerville • www.valero.com

Now open

Coming soon

Relocations

4 EVS Metal Metal fabrication company EVS Metal broke ground on a 175,000-square-foot facility in Pflugerville’s One Thirty Business Park. The plant is expected to support the expanding semiconductor industry. • Relocating in 2025 • Intersection of SH-130 and Pecan Street • www.evsmetal.com

6 Hobby Lobby In its new 55,000-square-foot location, the artisanal craft company boasts an inventory of over 70,000 products, including holiday crafts, art supplies, custom framing options, scrapbooking materials, fabric and sewing accessories. The Pflugerville store marks the 115th location for the company in Texas, according to a news release. • Opened March 15 • 2400 Terrell Lane, Pflugerville • www.hobbylobby.com

7 Crux Climbing Center After experiencing delays since 2021 for an initially planned Round Rock location, Crux Climbing Center now shows substantial signs of progress toward opening on property in Pflugerville. Local climbers can expect a roughly 30,000-square-foot facility with 55-foot rope-climbing walls, a bouldering area and a yoga studio by this summer. • Opening this summer • 18817 N. Heatherwilde Blvd., Pflugerville • www.cruxclimbingcenter.com

Expansions

5 Austin’s Austin’s on I-35 will open a new Las Vegas-themed indoor mini-golf course, adding to its long list of attractions. The course will include 12 holes and feature a tour of Las Vegas, including the city’s top attractions. • Opened April 5 • 16231 N. I-35, Pflugerville • www.austinspark.com

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PFLUGERVILLE 15803 Windermere Dr. Ste. 204, 78660

HUTTO 307 Farley St. 78634

PFLUGERVILLE 15803 Windermere Dr. Ste. 204, 78660

PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

Impacts

Hutto

Coming soon

3 Mi Vida Comida The Mexican restaurant, which was set to open in February, now has plans to open this April. Owned by Firas Abusaada, who also own’s Cece’s Froyo, the restaurant will serve authentic dishes, such as tacos and burritos for pickup and to-go ordering. • Opening in April • 101 Limmer Loop, Ste. 100, Hutto • Facebook: Mi Vida Comida

EXCHANGE BLVD.

Now open

LIMMER LOOP

EAST ST.

1 Bumble Bee Pediatric Dentistry Led by Dr. Amy Albright, the office provides comprehensive dental care for children. Other services include sedation dentistry, laser dentistry, emergency dentistry and care for children with special needs. • Opened Feb. 23 • 351 Exchange Blvd., Ste. 140, Hutto • www.pediatricdentisthutto.com 79 2 Hutto Wine Bar Located in the downtown area, the bar’s menu features a variety of red, white and sparkling wines from vineyards around the globe. For instance, patrons will find a cabernet franc from Argentina; sauvignon blanc from Napa, California; a brut de chardonnay from France; and more. On Sundays, guests will also find mimosas on the menu. • Opened Feb. 28 • 105 East St., Hutto • www.huttowinebar.com 1660

ED SCHMIDT BLVD.

Hutto

110

Expansions

130 TOLL

4 Rockabilly Brewing The business is renovating its space to include a covered patio, additional seating, a kids play area and more parking. Once it reopens, the brewery also plans to have five of its own beers on tap at all times, and a food truck, BBQ Fiends, will be at the location on weekends.

MUIRFIELD BEND DR.

137

• Opening this April • 1133 CR 137, Hutto • www.rockabillybrewing.com

GATTIS SCHOOL RD.

138

MAP NOT TO SCALE

State of the City

Your Tax Dollars at Work

• Capital Improvement Projects ▪ $350 Million in bonds ready for issuance towards critical water and wastewater infrastructure ▪ $26 Million in bonds ready for issuance towards street infrastructure ▪ $1.2 Million Road Maintenance Fund approved by Council for this year • Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Planning ▪ Public workshops approaching ▪ Prioritize upcoming essential Capital Improvement Projects ▪ Strategic Plan for 2024-25 underway

Cheney Gamboa, Director of Economic Development; Peter Gordon, Mayor Pro Tem; Mike Snyder, Mayor; James Earp, City Manager; and Drew Hargrove, Hutto Area Chamber Board Chair.

Tune in from the comfort of home and hear the State of the City address directly from Mayor Mike Snyder. He covers topics everyone is talking about, from residential and commercial development, city accomplishments, and where we are headed next. Then a panel of City leadership joins the Mayor to answer burning questions submitted by residents. Scan the QR code to watch.

Huttotx.gov

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY GRANT CRAWFORD

In the news

Now open

Coming soon

5 Apex Dental Studio The dental office reached its five-year anniversary in February. The office provides general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. • 21000 N. SH 130, Ste. 100, Hutto • www.apexdentalstudio.com 6 Fortune House The restaurant will reach its five-year anniversary this April. The dining spot offers Vietnamese noodles, Chinese entrees, soups, egg rolls and other Asian cuisine. • 2098 Muirfield Bend Drive, Ste. 110, Hutto • www.fortunehousehutto.com

8 Mansions Eight65 A new rental-home community in Hutto, right outside of Round Rock, is made up of over 450 duplex homes. Renters can choose from one- to four-bedroom layouts, and the community offers a 24-hour fitness center and pool. • Opened in December • 865 Limmer Loop, Hutto • www.mansionseight65.com

9 Smokey Mo’s BBQ The Texas barbecue restaurant plans to open a new location in Hutto. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, turkey, pork ribs, pork loin, sausage and chicken. For sides, patrons will find pinto beans, potato salad, green beans, coleslaw, potatoes, and mac and cheese. • Opening this spring • 120 Chris Kelley Blvd., Ste. 300, Hutto • www.smokeymosbbq.com

Closings

7 Dwell House Coffee and Tap The shop, which serves coffee, beer and pastries, closed its Hutto location. The business will maintain its other location at 204 E. Main St., Florence. A new business is expected to take over the space and serve coffee. • Closed Feb. 25 • 2100 Muirfield Bend Drive, Ste. 125, Hutto • Facebook: Dwell House Coffee and Tap

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PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

Government

Hutto water customers to see rate increase The city of Hutto will issue $349 million in debt toward water and wastewater projects after City Council approved a measure March 21, resulting in an estimated increase of $20 on Hutto water and wastewater customers’ monthly bills. Two-minute impact Council members previously approved a list of top-priority capital improvement projects. These projects are intended to increase water capacity due to Hutto’s rapid growth in recent years, according to city staff. The funding will come from a city-issued certificate of obligation, or CO, bond. These CO bonds are typically backed by taxes or impact fee revenues, and they do not require voter approval. This means the city will tack on an additional $10 to both the water and wastewater base fees in June to pay on the debt of the bonds.

New members join semiconductor board Gov. Greg Abbott announced appoint- ments to the Texas Semiconductor Inno- vation Consortium’s Executive Committee on March 19. UT Dallas President Emeritus David Daniel will lead the committee as chair, according to the news release. Why it matters The announcement comes after Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law in June. The act established the TSIC and the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund, Abbott said. The law allocated $1.4 billion that local municipalities and workforce development organizations in Williamson County could take advantage of to go to semiconductor research, development, manufacturing and workforce development.

Wastewater projects:

South Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion to 6 million gallons per day (design)

• Timeline: complete fall 2026 • Cost: $14 million

• Timeline: complete winter 2026 • Cost: $90 million South WWTP expansion to 6 MGD (construction)

• Timeline: complete summer 2025 • Cost: $12.2 million Megasite wastewater lift station • Timeline: complete fall 2026 • Cost: $36.2 million SE Loop wastewater interceptor • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $14.2 million Brushy Creek interceptor Phase 4 • Timeline: complete 2028 • Cost: $29.4 million Central WWTP expansion Phase 1

SOURCE: CITY OF HUTTO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Hutto revises amphitheater deal Hutto City Council approved a revised venue management contract March 8 with Directors of Chaos, after the management firm failed to obtain more than one show in 2023. The details The city of Hutto entered into an agree- ment with DOC in April 2023, in which the company planned to book 10 concerts from July to December. However, DOC was only able to organize three music shows between September to December. Two of the three shows were canceled. The new contract includes terms for DOC to procure at least five shows by the end of 2024 or the contract will be terminated promptly.

WilCo seals deal with auto parts supplier Williamson County commissioners approved a Chapter 312 agreement, or tax abatement, March 19 with South Korean automotive parts supplier Hanwha Advanced Materials America LLC. The overview The automotive part supplier will build a 200,000-square-foot manufacturing facility on 38 acres of land just north of Georgetown on I-35. The county is expecting an estimated $100 million capital investment from Hanwha, which includes taxes from the property and building, as well as the interior assets. The manufacturing site will create 180 new permanent jobs, according to the agreement, with additional provisions that include the company hiring 10 high-school-aged interns from the county each year during the life of the agreement.

Simon Lee, president of Hanwha’s American operations, shakes hands with Precinct 3 Williamson County Commissioner Valerie Covey.

HALEY MCLEOD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What they’re saying “This is a major victory I see for Williamson County, in that it helps diversify our economy,” said Dave Porter, Williamson County Economic Development Partnership executive director. “This was our first major entrance into the automotive industry. We have some automotive suppliers already here in Williamson County, but this is a major investment with lots of new jobs.”

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PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

Transportation

BY HALEY MCLEOD

Update: The project’s mapping and surveying is being nalized to determine the precise layout. • Timeline: fully complete by winter 2025 • Cost: $5.4 million • Funding source: TBD 4 CR 137 improvements from FM 1660 South to Brushy Creek Project: The project entails adding a turn lane to

INNOVATION BLVD.

1660

EXCHANGE BLVD.

110

enhance access to Farley Middle School. Update: The project is in the design phase. • Timeline: fully complete by winter 2025 • Cost: $500,000 • Funding source: Hutto FY 2023-24 capital improvement plan budget 5 CR 199 reconstruction

199

132

SPINE RD.

130 TOLL

3349

Hutto

1660

Project: This project includes removing the existing portion of CR 199 from FM 1660 South to CR 132 and building a new, wider roadway with sidewalks. Update: Field work is underway with design to follow. • Timeline: fully complete by spring 2026 • Cost: $1.1 million • Funding source: Hutto FY 2023-24 capital improvement plan budget

1660

137

138

GATTIS SCHOO L

Ongoing projects

MAP NOT TO SCALE

6 FM 1660 at Limmer Loop Project: The project involves adding left- and right-turn lanes as well as adjacent sidewalks. Update: Utility construction underway is impacting trac patterns. • Timeline: fully complete by this fall • Cost: $7.6 million • Funding source: Hutto FY 2023-24 capital improvement plan budget 7 Megasite east-west Spine Road Project: The construction of the rst major roadway within the Megasite is underway. Update: The project broke ground in January. • Timeline: fully complete by this fall • Cost: $18 million • Funding source: Hutto FY 2023-24 capital improvement plan budget

Upcoming projects

2 Innovation Boulevard at Limmer Loop improvements Project: The project entails converting the two-way intersection into a new four-way signal intersection. Update: The design phase is set to begin soon. • Timeline: fully complete by summer 2025 • Cost: $2.2 million • Funding source: Hutto FY 2023-24 capital improvement plan budget 3 Live Oak Street pavement reconstruction Project: The Live Oak Street overhaul will incorporate a new roadway featuring sidewalks; street lighting; and underground utilities, drainage and sewer systems.

1 Exchange Boulevard at Limmer Loop improvements Project: This project is a collaboration between the city of Hutto and Hutto ISD to implement improvements that will better mitigate trac ow and provide safer passage to Cottonwood Creek Elementary School for pedestrians. Update: Field work is underway, and a signal warrant study is complete. Next steps will be the design plans. • Timeline: fully complete by summer 2025 • Cost: $1.1 million • Funding source: Hutto FY 2023-24 capital improvement plan budget

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Education

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON & BROOKE SJOBERG

AI boosts student reading fluency

Kindergarten through fifth grade students in Pflugerville ISD have logged over 3,000 hours of reading practice on Amira Learning, an artificial intelligence reading pro- gram that has led to higher reading comprehension levels since its inception in the district in 2022. About the program According to Pflugerville ISD Elementary Language Arts Coordinator Jenny Olsen, Amira Learning is a first-of-its-kind artifi- cial intelligence reading program. Amira provides reading passages in English or Spanish to kindergarten through fifth grade students,

listens to them read, and provides in-the-moment intervention if they make a mistake. “[Amira] helps the students fill all the gaps and deficits they have in their foundational skills—basi- cally what everyone calls phonics instruction,” Olsen said. “The pandemic has really amplified all of these gaps and deficits they have. Unfortunately, when we went virtual, a lot of our students in Pflugerville, as well as nationally, were not reading.” Students are recommended to use the program for 10 minutes a day, three times a week.

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Reading fluency in Pflugerville ISD During the 2023-24 school year, kindergarten through fifth grade students in PfISD have higher reading levels compared to national averages.

National average

Pflugerville ISD (using Amira Learning)

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic programs for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Avery Ranch (PS–G8) (512) 341-8000 15101 Avery Ranch Boulevard, Austin Round Rock (PS–G1) (512) 255-8844 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock Spicewood Springs (PS–K) (512) 258-1299 13015 Pond Springs Road, Austin

Kindergarten 1st grade

2nd grade

3rd grade

4th grade

5th grade

SOURCE: PFLUGERVILLE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Hutto ISD solidifies hiring bonuses by the Texas Education Agency as recognized, exemplary and master

Hutto ISD employees who recruit new teachers and new hires who graduated from HISD can earn up to $500 per successful referral in the 2024-25 school year. What you need to know HISD board of trustees approved the program in February, which also included state-funded incentives for teachers designated

teachers. Earlier in the month, HISD Superintendent Raúl Peña shared that the district would bring back an amount for a general staff incentive later on in the budget process. More details about the hiring bonuses are available at www.hipponation.org

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

Real estate

Home sales declined year over year in Hutto but rose in Pflugerville in February, according to Austin Board of Realtors data. Residential market data

February 2023

February 2024

Homes sold

Average days on the market

+9.3%

-24.68%

-7%

+7.23%

78634

130 TOLL

78634

78660

78634

78660

Median home sales price

45 TOLL

February

2023

2024

78660

$365,000

$377,990

78634

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

$420,000

$408,220

78660

Homes sold by price point in February

Pflugerville | Hutto

78634

78660

February

2023

2024

$900,000+

119 263

New listings

$700,000-$899,999

116 183

Closed sales

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

Homes under contract

122

174

<$299,999

Months of inventory

2.35

Median home price in February

Hutto $377,990

Round Rock $455,500

Travis County $500,000

Price per square foot

$206 $194

Pflugerville $408,220

Austin MSA $443,065

Williamson County $423,000

285

380

Active listings

Election Voter Guide

BY HALEY MCLEOD

2024

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

*INCUMBENT

percent and that petitions for initiative or referendum conform to Chapter 277 of the Texas Election Code? Proposition L: Shall SECTION 8.07 AMENDMENTS AFTER ADOPTION of the Hutto City Charter be amended to allow for additional restrictions by ordinance relating to city manager authority to transfer funds for purposes of employee Shall SECTION 8.11 DEPOSITORY of the Hutto City Charter be amended to delete the requirement for original ink signatures for checks in excess of $5,000 to allow for electronic transmission of checks in excess of $5,000? Proposition N: Shall SECTION 12.04 PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION of the Hutto City Charter be amended to add a requirement to establish a quorum as 4 to convene a meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission? Proposition O: separation pay? Proposition M: Shall SECTION 13.03 ETHICS of the Hutto City Charter be amended to use defined term, “substantial interest” as defined in state law; to add procedures for the Ethics Ordinance; to amend the nepotism requirements as required by state law and to add a provision that the Board of Ethics shall review the Ethics Ordinance annually? Proposition P: Shall SECTION 13.09 PROHIBITIONS of the Hutto City Charter be amended to replace the word, “ City position”, with City Employment and add to the activities prohibited in Section 13.09 a) creed, color, disability, age, national origin, familial status, sexual orientation, transgender, gender identity or gender expression and to amend Section 13.09 b) to remove the words, “who either individually or with others willfully “ and add as to a violation of Section 13.09 a) as evidenced in a final Court Judgment or final Criminal Conviction is ineligible for appointment or election to a position in the City for four (4) years and replace the word “officer” with City Elected Official and remove the words, “employee of the City” and replace the words, “forfeiting the office or position” with Elected City Official’s office for the immediate forfeiture of office?

amended to add a provision that Mayor Pro-tem is elected by the newly elected City Council at first meeting after conclusion of regular or run-off elections? Proposition C: Shall SECTION 3.06 B) FORFEITURE OF OFFICE of the Hutto City Charter be amended to provide that the Mayor and any City Council Member be removed from office for failing to maintain the qualification for office in the Texas Constitution, and for a conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude; or convicted of an offense as prohibited by Texas Penal Code, Chapter 36, Bribery and Corrupt Influences, as may be amended, for a conviction of the offense of Section 36.02 Bribery; Section 36.03 Coercion of Public Servant or Voter; Section 36.04 Improper Influence; Section 36.05 Tampering with Witness; Section 36.06 Obstruction or Retaliation; Section 36.07 Acceptance of Honorarium; Section 36.08 Gift to Public Servant by Person Subject to His Jurisdiction; or Section 36.09 Offering Gift to Public Servant? Proposition D: Shall SECTION 3.10 QUORUM of the Hutto City Charter be amended to reduce the number of City Council members necessary to establish a quorum from five (5) to four (4)? Proposition E: Shall SECTION 3.12 VOTING of the Hutto City Charter be amended to provide that members of the City Council in attendance shall vote upon every resolution or ordinance except where there is a Conflict of Interest pursuant to Chapter 171 of the Texas Local Government Code or except when the Member of the City Council abstains from voting in order to avoid the appearance of impropriety as defined in the Hutto Ethics Code or City Council Protocols? Proposition F: Shall SECTION 3.13 ORDINANCES IN GENERAL of the Hutto City Charter be amended to remove second reading requirement so that ordinances may be enacted by one reading, as allowed by state law and that the Caption of the Ordinance shall be published in the Official Newspaper as required by state law? Proposition G: Shall Section 5.01 c) Voter Eligibility or Voter Registration List of the Hutto City Charter be amended to delete the

requirement that the City Secretary maintain a certified list of voters registered within the City as prepared by the County Elections Administrator because the County Elections Administrator maintains the certified list of voters registered within the City? Proposition H: Shall SECTION 5.02 FILING FOR OFFICE of the Hutto City Charter be amended to remove the requirement that city employee must resign to file for office because the requirement conflicts with state law and to provide that a petition signed by twentyfive (25) qualified voters residing in the City for a candidate’s application is required for a candidate to be placed on the ballot and delete the requirement that a candidate’s application to be placed on the ballot have a Petition signed by one-half of one percent of the total votes received by all candidates for mayor in the most recent mayoral regular election? Proposition I: Shall SECTION 6.02 PETITION FOR RECALL of the Hutto City Charter be amended to provide that a Petition for Recall be signed by qualified voters of the City equal in number to at least ten percent (10%) of the number of qualified voters as currently certified to by the County Elections Administrator at the last municipal election; that the City Secretary certify the Petition for Recall demanding such questions for Recall within two (2) working days; that the signer’s signature be added to the Petition for Recall as required by Chapter 277 of the Texas Election Code; that the Petition be circulated by a qualified voter? Proposition J: Shall SECTION 6.04 VARIOUS PAPERS CONSTITUTING RECALL PETITION be amended to provide that signatures to such Petition for Recall shall remain effective or be counted which were placed on the Petition for Recall within seventy-five (75) days after the certification of Petition for Recall by the person performing the duties of City Secretary; that the City Secretary shall verify the Petition for Recall within ten business (10) days as required in Chapter 277 of the Texas Election Code? Proposition K: Shall ARTICLE 7 INITIATIVE AND REFERENDUM of the Hutto City Charter be amended to decrease the number required to sign a petition for initiative or referendum from 20 percent to 10

Dates to know

April 22: first day of early voting April 23: deadline to apply for a ballot by mail April 30: last day of early voting May 4: election day

Where to vote

Travis and Williamson County residents can cast their ballots at any polling location during early voting and on Election Day. Visit https://elections. traviscountytx.gov and www.wilcotx.gov for polling locations.

Sample ballot

Hutto City Council Place 2 Dan Thornton* Cory Denena Place 5 Dana Wilcott* Nicole Calderone Brandon DeLeon Marcus Coleman Evan Porterfield Hutto ISD Two at-large positions Amanda Barron Amy English* Ashley Rendon James Matlock* Zenaida Martinez Pflugerville ISD Place 2 Melissa Lee Charlie Torres City of Hutto Proposition A:

Shall SECTION 3.04 COMPENSATION of the Hutto City Charter be amended to replace the word “compensation” with salary and add that the salary is subject to the limitation imposed by state law and Texas Constitution? Proposition B: Shall SECTION 3.05 MAYOR AND MAYOR PROTEM of the Hutto City Charter be

SOURCES: PFLUGERVILLE CITY COUNCIL, HUTTO CITY COUNCIL/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Candidates for Pflugerville ISD Board of Trustees Place 2

Why are you running for this position?

If elected, what is your No. 1 priority to address?

I’m running because my time volunteering in our schools supporting students and staff, building relationships, and advocating through letters and public comments has helped me gain understanding and interest in critical issues facing PfISD. These experiences have heightened my commitment to our kids, compelling me to seek a trustee role.

My foremost commitment, if elected, is assessing the district’s financial standing, aiming to minimize the impact of financial decisions on students and staff, safeguarding educational opportunities within PfISD. Preserving the integrity of public education is vital to unlocking the full potential of our community and fostering a thriving academic environment.

Melissa Lee Occupation: Volunteer & Community Advocate Relevant experience: District involvement: advocate, guest educator, volunteer, PTO Leader. Background: corporate finance, strategic planning, analytics. http://tinyurl.com/5bvfpdss Charlie Torres Occupation: Retired and Education & Community Advocate Relevant experience: Trustee; Education Foundation leadership; PfISD SHAC and District committees; PTO and HHS-FFA; Teacher advocate. www.facebook.com/torresfortrustee

I’m running for the school board because I am passionately committed to advocating for the comprehensive educational needs of all PfISD students. My goal is to enhance community awareness, foster strong support and encourage active district participation to ensure our students succeed now and in the future.

My priority is addressing the educational needs of our 25,000-plus PfISD students, supporting their journey to post-graduation success. Our diverse district requires enriched educational experiences, both in and out of the classroom. We must support our educators and ensure equitable access to quality education, fostering academic achievement for all.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

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Election

BY HALEY MCLEOD

*INCUMBENT

Hutto City Council Place 2

What uniquely qualifies you for this position?

What do you see as the greatest challenge for the city, and how will you improve it?

Nobody catches everything, but I have a strong attention to detail, solid understanding of complex interactions, and an ability to cut through technical and legal documents to understand real world impacts of our decisions on Hutto residents. I’m not here to chase a legacy; I’m here to represent the taxpayers.

Paying for and completing all the needed road, water and wastewater projects. I will work to prioritize projects by need and impact, make sure development is paying its fair share, and pursue every funding source to minimize the additional tax and utility burdens on residents.

Dan Thornton* Occupation: Software engineer Relevant experience: Hutto City Council since 2020, Hutto Parks Advisory Board and Hutto Economic Development Corporation www.thorntonforhutto.com Cory Denena Occupation: Educator Relevant experience: Diversity and Inclusion Commission, master’s degrees in educational administration, high school principal https://corydenenaforhutto.org

Forward-looking and practiced in bringing people together with emphasis on collaboration, cooperation and working together to solve problems; pragmatic, middle of the road, independent thinker and not aligned with existing factions on the council; serve on several boards in the city of Hutto; visionary spirit with a forward- looking leadership style.

Managing rapid growth while providing essential infrastructure, such as roads, water and wastewater, to ensure safety, mobility and other quality of life assets, such as nature trails, trail connectivity, parks, playgrounds and other amenities; [and] accomplish by being pragmatic, collaborative, creative and unleashing talent of city employees to solve problems.

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Election

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

Assessing the district’s financial standing and monitoring 2023 bond projects; teacher support, retention and professional development opportunities; strengthening the relationship between students, parents and teachers to provide optimal learning environments for students; advocating for enhanced community awareness and support of district-provided growth opportunities and programs for our young leaders. My top priorities revolve around empowering parents, promoting academic achievement and advocating for effective engagement policies. Through these initiatives, I seek to create a more inclusive, supportive and collaborative educational environment that ensures every student’s success in college, career and life.

My family has been part of Hippo Nation since 2008, and we’ve been so grateful for the opportunities Hutto ISD has presented to our three daughters. I’ve learned immensely while serving on various committees, and I want to use my experience to serve the district as a whole.

*INCUMBENT

Hutto ISD board of trustees at large

Ashley Rendon Occupation: Deputy director

What will be your top priorities if you are elected? If elected, my primary focuses would center on student success, teacher advocacy and community involvement. Every student should receive the support and resources to excel. I will work collaboratively with all stakeholders to make decisions that prioritize retaining high-quality teachers and exceptional programs.

What is something you want Hutto ISD residents to know about you?

Relevant experience: 2022 HISD Long Range Facilities Planning Committee Facebook: Ashley Rendon for Hutto ISD School Board Zenaida Martinez Occupation: Community Health Worker instructor Relevant experience: Texas Association of Promotores & Community Health Workers www.zenaidam.com James Matlock* Occupation: Financial analyst Relevant experience: Bachelor’s in finance, master’s in accounting, 10 years experience in public finance/ debt planning www.matlockforhuttoisd.com

I have two daughters attending Hutto schools. My husband, Victor, is the local Young Life guy. For close to two decades, we’ve been involved in youth advocacy. Our commitment extends beyond our own family; we’re dedicated to ensuring every kid in Hutto receives the best opportunities and support possible.

Amy English* Occupation: Real estate broker Relevant experience: Hutto ISD trustee for three years; Texas Association of School Board trustee www.amyenglishforhutto.com Amanda Barron Occupation: Early literacy instructional coach Relevant experience: 15 years in public education; two years coaching teachers https://bit.ly/Barron4Hutto

Overall, I am a dedicated parent, passionate advocate for positive change and committed to bringing the voice of the community to the table. With your support, I am confident that I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and the future of our education system.

Provide resources to address staff and student mental health issues post-pandemic; improve academic outcomes through classroom initiatives that support teachers; continue to advocate at the state and federal levels to ensure the ISD is properly funded.

As a 35-year resident of Hutto, I am fully immersed in our community. Whether in a private, public or homeschool setting, I was active in my children’s education. After 18 years (and counting) in Hutto ISD, I have experienced various aspects of a rapid- growth district that benefit me as a trustee.

My priorities include student achievement, fiscal responsibility and student safety. I’ll prioritize student achievement through evidence-based strategies and support for educators. I’ll prioritize school safety as it is vital for a secure learning environment. I’ll also prioritize managing the budget carefully to maximize its impact on student learning.

As a parent, current school board member and community advocate, I’m committed to serving our community and advocating for the best interests of all students. I bring a unique perspective and approach to addressing our challenges, and I’m dedicated to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

ROUND ROCK 201 University Oaks Blvd (512) 341-9066 ARBORETUM 10515 N Mopac Expressway (512) 342-6893

GEORGETOWN 1013 W University Ave (512) 868-6696 PFLUGERVILLE 19000 Limestone

Commercial Dr (512) 953-4070

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