Pflugerville - Hutto Edition | October 2024

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Pugerville Hutto Edition VOLUME 20, ISSUE 2 OCT. 9NOV. 7, 2024

2024 Voter Guide

Families rallied to support Travis County Commissioners in placing a tax rate election on the November ballot to help fund additional child care services for low-income households.

HALEY MCLEODCOMMUNITY IMPACT

community’s vulnerable populations. In the meantime, the average Travis County homeowner is already expected to see a property tax hike next year. Property owners across Travis County are being asked to support a $0.025 property tax increase in this November’s general election. Should the measure pass, the average homeowner BY GRANT CRAWFORD & HALEY MCLEOD Travis County tax hike proposed for child care costs CONTINUED ON 30 would pay almost $126 in additional taxes annually. It would also generate over $75 million to expand child care services in the area. Local child care advocates called for the election, citing the rising costs families face, and believe a multipronged approach will reduce challenges for the

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Impacts: Find out about a new pickleball facility opening in Pugerville (Page 9)

Election: Read about the upcoming Nov. 5 general election and what will be on the ballot (Page 17)

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Ballot Measure Could Defund the Pflugerville Fire Department Prop A Would Decrease Budget For Travis County ESD No. 2/Pflugerville Fire Department

What is Prop A? This November, TCESD 2/Pflugerville Fire Department Prop A will be on the ballot. This ballot measure asks voters whether they are FOR or AGAINST defunding the Pflugerville Fire Department, by decreasing the sales tax funding the fire department receives. If Prop A passes, it would reduce the fire department budget by about $17 million, or approximately 40% of its annual budget. “A 40% budget reduction would have a significant impact on the department’s ability to provide fire protection and other emergency services at the level it currently provides,” said Rico Reyes, President of the fire department’s Board of Commissioners. Prop A would defund the fire department. It would not provide new or better ambulance services. Potential Impact Of Budget Cuts For Emergency Services Firefighter Layoffs A $17 million revenue loss would not allow the fire department to cover its largest current expense: firefighters. If Prop A passes, it is projected that the department would need to eliminate over 130 positions, including laying off over 80 firefighters. l 79 Old Settlers Park At Palm Valley 79 Forest Creek Golf Club Forest Creek Homeowners Association The Golf Club At Star Ranch HUTTO

Longer response times Fire stations are planned and built strategically with the goal of responding quickly through all parts of the District. If Prop A passes and stations close, projections show that 9-1-1 response times could increase from under 10 minutes (currently) to more than double that time in certain areas. Rising insurance costs If Prop A passes, the fire department’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating could go from 1 (the best rating) to 10 (the worst rating) in some areas. This could lead to property insurance companies increasing residential and commercial premiums as much as 50%. “The fire department has served this community for almost 70 years,” said Nick Perkins, Fire Chief. “I recommend registered voters of the District learn the facts before voting on Prop A and to send an email to info@pflugervillefire.org if they have any questions.” Who is Travis County Emergency Services District No. 2? Also known as the Pflugerville Fire Department TCESD 2 is committed to the preservation of life and property, in that order. We respond to incidents within our District involving: emergency medical services (EMS), fires, hazardous materials, water rescues, confined space rescues, building collapses, transportation accidents, unsafe conditions, and public assistance. NORMAN 166 95 RICES CROSSING

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Station Closures Without firefighters to staff fire stations, the fire department would need to close several fire stations. If Prop A passes, these stations would potentially close: • Fire station 3 off of Kelly Ln • Fire station 4 off of Pflugerville Parkway • Fire station 6 off of Weiss Lane 35 Austin Executive Airport

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DID YOU KNOW…. Travis County ESD 2 has had a massive $32m net profit over the DID YOU KNOW…. REJECT SCARE TACTICS!

Reckless overspending (up arrow) despite less (down arrow) fire truck calls. • The City of Pflugerville does not have its own fire or ambulance department. • Travis County ESD2 provides those services through OUR property & sales tax. • In 2022, ESD2 QUIT providing ambulance services but did NOT stop taxing us. • Despite a 50% decrease in calls, the ESD2 response time for ambulance calls is 5.5 minutes slower than the state average. • ESD2 made a $32 million profit over the last 4 years and $36 million in reserves, which is 400% more than needed. They had over 100 vacant positions! Funding our ambulances only costs $1.7 million. • ESD2 just approved another 30% property tax increase. • Travis County ESD2 is unelected and unaccountable.

past 4 years while it costs only $1.7 million for Pflugerville ambulances. Theyhave stockpiled $57 million of our tax dollars in reserves .

THEY HAD THE MONEY THEN! THEY HAVE THE MONEY NOW! Voting Yes For ESD2 Prop A is a vote to build a Local, Affordable EMS, that is There When We Need Them. LOCAL: Leaders who are elected and accountable to us, the citizens. AFFORDABLE: Stop the DOUBLE tax! Voting for Prop A is the first step to RECLAIM a portion of the sales tax from ESD2. THERE WHEN WE NEED THEM: Minutes in an emergency can be the difference between life and death. We want a better EMS!

REMEMBER THIS SCARE TACTIC? Travis County ESD 2 Quit

Ambulance Service after 2021 but still collects all the same taxes! We love our firefighters, but they are not

POLITICAL AD PAID FOR BY PFLUGERVILLE RESIDENTS FOR RESPONSIBLE TAXATION

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Monthly Events

Oct. 10 Ribbon Cutting! Pickle Ball Kingdom Oct. 15 Small Business Initiative, Topic: AI in Business, Pflugerville Library Oct. 17 Business After hours at 54th Street Bar & Grill Oct. 26 Pfestival & Chamber Expo at Typhoon Texas Pfamily Pfriendly & Pfree! Oct. 29 Ribbon Cutting! Trinity Home Health Services Oct. 31 Ribbon Cutting! Advanced Home Health Care Services

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Nov. 7 Business After Hours Location TBD Nov. 12 Chamber Luncheon at Spare Time Nov. 14 BLOOM Womenʼs Lunch at Courtyard by Marriott

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

PFLUGERVILLE HUTTO EDITION

Impacts Round Rock

7 Suchil Downtown Fades The shop is owned by Leticia Suchil, a Round Rock native who previously had a studio called Suchil Salon in the city. Leticia is a short-hair specialist who can offer fades, tapers, scissor cuts, undercuts and more for both adults and children. • Opened Aug. 13

• Opened late August • 3021 S. I-35, Ste. 240, Round Rock • www.fivebelow.com

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130 TOLL 3 Halal Bros. The Middle Eastern grill serves street food, such as beef, lamb or chicken shawarma over rice, in a wrap or on a salad. Brothers Ahmad, Mohamad, Salee and Mahmoud Attal are from New York and opened the original food truck in downtown Austin. • Opened Aug. 22 • 3107 S. I-35, Ste. 775, Round Rock • www.thehalalbros.com 4 Luxury Auto Body The Austin-based shop expanded to Round Rock with a second location in August. The auto body shop offers a variety of services to customers, including collision repair, hail damage and glass repair, vehicle painting and customization. The shop services vehicles in need of minor to major repairs, and offers same-day appointments for some services. • Opened mid-August • 1001 Louis Henna Blvd., Round Rock • www.luxuryautobody.com 5 PetSmart Veterinary Services The pet clinic is led by Dr. Yejide Myers, who was most recently the medical director for VCA Pet Veterinary Hospital in Elgin. The clinic offers surgery, health certificates, dental cleanings, spay and neuters, and radiograph services. • Opened Sept. 17 • 201 University Oaks Blvd., Round Rock • www.petsmart.com 6 Resolution Eyecare The locally owned vision care office provides vision and medical exams, glasses, contact lenses, dry eye therapy, myopia management and other services. The location is set to host a grand opening event on Oct. 13, said operations manager Albert Thong. This is the business’s first Round Rock location in addition to their two Austin locations. • Opened Sept. 2 • 2150 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock • www.resolution.vision

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• 302 W. Main St., Ste. 102, Round Rock • Facebook: Suchil Downtown Fades

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8 Painted Tree Boutiques The Little Rock, Arkansas, based boutique will open its 55th store early next year in the La Frontera Village shopping center, according to a company representative. The boutique will stock items from local vendors and artisans, making the Round Rock location unique to the area. • Opening early 2025 • 2701 Parker Drive, Round Rock • www.paintedtree.com

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9 The Round Rock Farmers Market The city’s only farmers market will begin holding all events and activities in Rock Creek starting Sept. 21, organizer Stephanie Nakano said, near Kerbey Lane Cafe and Ramen Tatsu-Ya. For the last 10 years, it was held in the parking lot of the University Commons retail center. The market, which offers high-quality and clean produce, meats and other items, is relocating to allow for more growth, she said. • Relocated Sept. 21

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Now open

1 Atithi Grill and Bar The restaurant focuses on southeast Asian-Indian, Nepali and Pakistani cuisine. The menu features samosas, curries, noodles, wings and a variety of other dishes. The location hosts events throughout the year and is available for private event booking. • Opened in August • 130 Sundance Parkway, Round Rock • www.atithigrillandbar.com 2 Five Below The discount store sells apparel, home goods, snacks, toys and more, usually for $5 or less.

• 2120 N. Mays St., Round Rock • www.farmergeorge.market

In the news

10 The Flats Round Rock The bar locally owned by Place 1 City Council Member Michelle Ly and her husband Erik Hall, marked five years of operation July 2. The pair also own The Alcove, The Rock Sports Bar and Rock Shot Bar as well as Hall

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Now open

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11 Pollo Campero Originating from Guatemala over 50 years ago, the business specializes in fried and grilled chicken with family recipes passed down from generation to generation. The restaurant also offers empanadas, salads and bowls, plus unique sides like sweet plantains and yuca fries. • Opened Sept. 19 • 549 Louis Henna Blvd., Round Rock • https://us.campero.com

13 GreenWheels Performance The family owned and operated retailer sells street-legal golf carts, electric bikes and accessories in the Round Rock-Austin area. The business opened its doors to the Round Rock community this summer. They offer free delivery within 30 miles of the store. • Opened July 23 • 3141 Eagles Nest St., Ste. 260, Round Rock • www.greenwheels-ev.com

16 JuiceLand A second Round Rock location is in the works for the Greenlawn Crossing Center, a JuiceLand representative confirmed Aug. 23. The juice, smoothie and coffee chain was founded in 2011 by Matt Shook and has since expanded to 42 locations and counting in Dallas, Austin and Houston. • Opening late 2024 • 603 Louis Henna Blvd., Ste. B150, Round Rock • www.juiceland.com

14 Tot Box Play Cafe The business has been temporarily closed since Aug. 18, due to a car accident that damaged part of the building. Owner Suzette Reynoso-Bivens said the business has plans to reopen in early November. The family owned business offers parents a space to relax or work while their children enjoy playtime in a safe and fun environment. • Reopening Nov. 1 • 403 N. Mays St., Round Rock • www.totboxplaycafe.com

Roofing and Construction. The bar, which originally opened in 2019, offers indoor and outdoor seating, games and music. • 205 N. Mays St., Round Rock • Facebook: The Flats - Downtown Round Rock 12 Tammy Kay’s Boutique The boutique celebrated their 10th anniversary of business in the Round Rock community on Sept. 14. The storefront opened on Sept. 6, 2014, as ATC Boutique- “Pretty in Pink.” The business sells dresses, tops, bottoms, plus-size clothing, gameday wear for Texas A&M and UT Austin, home goods and more. • 1050 Meadows Drive, Ste. 403, Round Rock • www.tammykaysboutique.com

signage placed in the windows of the restaurant. The restaurant offered a variety of seafood and cocktails as well as branded merchandise for purchase in the restaurant’s shop.

• Closed in mid-September • 2401 S. I-35, Round Rock • www.joescrabshack.com

17 Pizza Delight Round Rock-based Pizza Delight closed in August after 12 years of serving its patrons. The restaurant offered New York-style pizza, calzones, wings, sandwiches, salads and more in the H-E-B Plus Center located at the corner of Hwy. 79 and A.W. Grimes Boulevard. • Closed in August • 1700 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Ste. 430, Round Rock • www.pizzadelighttx.com

Closings

15 Joe’s Crab Shack The seafood restaurant permanently closed its Round Rock location in mid-September, according to

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Impacts

Pflugerville

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1 Hometown Myo Hometown Myo, a speech pathology practice, is now taking patients. Robin Selman, who has been a speech language pathologist for 13 years, uses orofacial myofunctional therapy to assist clients. Selman is able to help patients address speech delays; sound and articulation disorders; feeding difficulties from birth and beyond; picky eating; and issues related to tongue and lip ties. • Opened in July • 305 N. Heatherwilde Blvd., Ste. 320, Pflugerville • 512-815-2549 2 Burnett’s Food for the Soul Burnett’s Food for the Soul had its grand opening Sept. 6 after five months of preparation. The restaurant sports a menu of classic comfort foods like fried chicken, cornbread, and macaroni and cheese. Owner Darius Burnett said he is “so happy” to officially open. • Opened Sept. 6 • 428 Grand Avenue Parkway, Pflugerville • 512-502-5113 3 University Federal Credit Union A second University Federal Credit Union will open in Pflugerville in September. The bank will have private

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consultation areas for personal financial assistance, self-service amenities including a 24/7 drive-thru and walk-up ATMs, and a coin-counting machine. Margot Harmatuk, who has been a leader with UFCU for 12 years, will be the branch manager. • Opened in September • 2021 Kelly Lane, Pflugerville • www.ufcu.org Hannah’s Home Call Grooming Pflugerville dog owners can now book at-home grooming appointments with Hannah’s Home Call Grooming. The small business brings all necessary equipment to wash, cut and clean up afterwards, and owners only need to provide an outlet and running water. Customers can select from a menu of services, ranging from nail painting to full groom. • Opened in August • 325-423-4655 • Hannahshomecallgrooming@gmail.com Happy Home Storage Design Pflugerville-based Happy Home Storage Design, a custom storage solution company, is now open. The company, which serves Pflugerville and the surrounding Austin metro, specializes in upgrades for closets, laundry rooms, pantries, play rooms and more. Stephanie Bauman, founder and owner, runs the business with her husband, Isaac.

• Opened in September • 512-920-2465 • www.happyhomestoragedesign.com

Coming soon

In the news

4 Skip’s Beer Wine & Liquor Skip’s Beer Wine & Liquor recently acquired 2,500 square feet in Ridge Crossing in Pflugerville, according to a Resolut RE news release. Ridge Crossing is a planned walkable neighborhood retail center near the Blackhawk neighborhood. • 20601 Hodde Lane, Pflugerville • skipsliquor.com 5 Waxing the City Waxing the City’s Pflugerville location is celebrating five years of business. The hair removal franchise opened Sept. 5, 2019. The business offers face and body hair-removal services including waxing, brow shaping, Brazilian waxes, neck and sideburn hair removal for both men and women. Manager Johana Hulse oversees multiple Waxing the City locations, including the Pflugerville location for over two years. • 18817 Limestone Commercial Drive, Ste. 300, Pflugerville • www.waxingthecity.com

6 Pickleball Kingdom A Pickleball Kingdom in Pflugerville will be the first in Central Texas. The business will open its first building Oct. 13 and will be fully operational in early 2025. Jared and Pam Jolly own the franchise, which consists of two buildings totaling 30,000 square feet. The first building will include three full-sized courts and one half court. The second building will have eight courts and a mezzanine. • Opens Oct. 13 • 1900 E. Howard Lane, Pflugerville • pickleballkingdom.com

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Impacts Hutto

Now open

Relocations

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1 Mario Esfiha Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu The Brazilian jiu-jitsu studio offers private lessons and small group classes, with plans to offer kids programs in October and larger classes in the future. Mario Esfiha is a sixth-degree black belt who can provide instruction for both newcomers to the sport and experienced practitioners. • Opened in August • 409 W. Front St., Ste. 230 • www.huttobjj.com

3 A Team Home Services A Team Home Services recently moved from its space off CR 119 to a new location on Innovation Boulevard in Hutto. The business provides remodeling services, such as carpentry, flooring, roofing, home additions, outdoor living spaces and other assistance. The company also offers electrical and handyman services, such as work on lighting, circuit breakers, EV charging stations and home insulation. • Relocated Sept. 13 • 2121 Innovation Blvd., Ste. F, Hutto • www.callateamtoday.com

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In the news

2 Sonora Bank Sonora Bank will open a new Hutto branch this fall. The bank offers personal and business accounts as well as various loans, including mortgage and vehicle. Sonora Bank first opened in Sonora in 1900 and has several locations throughout Central Texas, including Wimberley, Bulverde and New Braunfels. • Opening this fall • 205 Exchange Blvd., Hutto • www.sonorabank.com

Verizon Verizon agreed to a $20 billion deal to acquire Frontier Communications, an internet service provider based in Dallas. The deal will expand Verizon’s fiber network service, Fios, into Texas, where Frontier offers services in select areas. Frontier operates 7.2 million fiber locations in 25 states across the U.S. with plans to add more by the end of 2026, according to a news release.

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• www.frontier.com • www.verizon.com

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Now open

4 Taco Palenque The restaurant serves Mexican comfort food with breakfast, lunch and dinner options. The menu features tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, burritos, parrilladas and other items. The chain has other locations in the Austin area as well as throughout San Antonio and southern Texas. • Opened late September • 2722 FM 685, Hutto • www.tacopalenque.com

5 Gracie Barra Hutto The international franchise dedicated to Brazilian jiu-jitsu offers classes for a variety of levels. The Hutto studio, which offers classes for men, women and kids, is led by fifth-degree black belt Ricardo Moraes. The school also has locations throughout the Austin metro. • Opened Sept. 8 • 571 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Ste. 110, Hutto • www.gbhuttobjj.com

6 Hutto Station The apartment and townhome community, which offers a variety of one-, two- and three- bedroom homes to choose from, is now leasing. The complex features a resort-style pool, fitness center, yoga room and private work rooms. Every unit is also equipped with smart locks and Google Nest thermostats.

• Opened early September • 551 Exchange Blvd., Hutto • www.huttostation.com

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Government

BY GRANT CRAWFORD

Pugerville raises judge’s salary Pugerville’s presiding judge for the municipal court will now be compensated at $45,000 a year, City Council decided at a

County increases pay supplements for district judges, attorney In an eort to balance the upcoming scal year 2024-25 budget with employee retention, the Williamson County Commissioners Court voted to approve pay supplements for each district judge and the district attorney July 30. The overview According to county documents, the proposal includes maintaining the supplement for each district judge at roughly $18,000 per year, which is in line with current district attorney supplement. County Judge Bill Gravell moved to adjust the supplemental gure for District Attorney Shawn Dick to $52,000. His proposal kept the $18,000 gure for district judges. Gravell’s proposal passed by a 3-2 vote. Precinct 2 Commissioner Cynthia Long and Precinct 3

“If we’re going to attract the very best, we have to make sure that our salaries are worthy of them.” BILL GRAVELL, WILLIAMSON COUNTY JUDGE

meeting Aug. 27. How it happened

Commissioner Valerie Covey voted against it. What they’re saying This amendment sparked a debate among the commissioners on whether it is the county’s or state’s responsibility to add funding to the district attorney’s salary. Long and Covey said their goal is to provide Dick a higher salary while avoiding having county taxpayers pay for something they believe the state should. Gravell disagreed, citing concerns about making county salaries attractive to top talent.

All council members approved the salary adjustment for Farren Sheehan, the presid- ing municipal court judge. When she was appointed in 2018, her salary was $38,701, according to city documents. What else? City Council also unanimously approved the appointment of a new associate judge, Kristina Rojas-Stompel. She has previously held positions as an assistant county attor- ney for Williamson County and a prosecutor for the city of Cedar Park.

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Government

BY GRANT CRAWFORD

Hutto creates new Municipal Court of Record for civil matters The city of Hutto established a new Municipal Court of Record to hear civil matters, separate from the court’s proceedings for criminal cases. The gist The city now has two courts: the Municipal Court of Record No. 1 and Municipal Court of Record No. 2, after City Council amended an ordinance that went into effect in September. Hutto’s Municipal Court of Record No. 1 will pre- side over criminal matters, while Municipal Court of Record No. 2 will preside over civil matters. Council appointed Judge Lucas Wilson as the administrative hearing officer of Municipal Court of Record No. 2. City Attorney Dottie Palumbo said staff will set up complaint forms and help the public fill out their complaints.

“We won’t have this kind of money to give this kind of a pay raise on any predictable timetable in the future, and that is why I feel like it’s important to do it while we can.” BRIGID SHEA, PRECINCT 2 COMMISSIONER Travis County officials set 5% pay increase Travis County commissioners approved a pay increase for employees for the third year in a row. The details The minimum wage for county employees will now start at $21.84 an hour, which will be implemented in October. All county employees will see a 5% increase in pay.

• Zoning violations • Subdivision regulations • Civil penalties for conduct classified as a Class C misdemeanor • Proceedings relating to the interior configuration, design, illumination, or visibility of certain sexually oriented businesses • Proceedings relating to point source effluent regulations • Proceedings relating to floodplain control The Municipal Court of Record No. 2 will preside over civil matters, including:

SOURCE: CITY OF HUTTO/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Quote of note City Council Place 2 member Dan Thornton said the new court will be a benefit to citizens. “We continued to see contractors damaging people’s yards and utility easements; and devel- opers who are notified of gaping potholes in their commercial developments and don’t fix them, and people are damaging their cars driving through them... I think this court will be able to serve the public and make it easier for them to get justice for those issues,” he said.

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Enhanced TxTag customer service is coming!

To improve customer experience, the Texas Department of Transportation is working toward transitioning toll collection, billing, and customer service operations to the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA).

Be sure that you’re ready. If you have a TxTag, log in to your account and confirm that your contact information, license plate(s), and payment methods are up to date. You must be signed up for AutoPay for your credit card information to transfer to HCTRA.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY GRACIE WARHURST

Voter Guide

2024

Dates to know

Where to vote

Oct. 21: First day of early voting Oct. 25: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Nov. 1: Last day of early voting Nov. 5: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or Nov. 6 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election on Election Day)

Williamson and Travis counties are both open counties, meaning residents may vote at any location within their county for the May election. Polling locations are at www.wilco.org/departments/elections and www.countyclerk.traviscounty.org. The following sample ballot is unofficial.

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

KEY: D Democrat G Green L Libertarian R Republican *Incumbent

Texas Court of Criminal Appeals — Place 8 D Chika Anyiam R Lee Finley Williamson County elections County Attorney D Amy Lyn Lefkowitz R Dee Hobbs* Williamson County Sheriff D Mike Gleason* R Matthew Lindemann County Commissioner Precinct 3

U.S. Representative District 37 D Lloyd Doggett* L Girish Altekar R Jenny Garcia Sharon State Representative District 46 D Sheryl Cole* R Nikki Kosich State Representative District 52 D Jennie Birkholz R Caroline Harris Davila* Pflugerville City Council Place 5 Melody Ryan Jim McDonald* Travis County ESD No. 2 Proposition A

Sample ballot

Federal elections President D Kamala Harris G Jill Stein L Chase Oliver R Donald Trump U.S. Senate D Colin Allred

L Ted Brown R Ted Cruz* State elections Texas Railroad Commissioner D Katherine Culbert G Eddie Espinoza L Hawk Dunlap R Christi Craddick* Texas Supreme Court Justice — Place 2 D DaSean Jones R Jimmy Blacklock* Texas Supreme Court Justice — Place 4 D Christine Vinh Weems R John Devine* Texas Supreme Court Justice — Place 6 D Bonnie Lee Goldstein L J. David Roberson R Jane Bland* Texas Court of Criminal Appeals — presiding judge D Holly Taylor R David J. Schenck Texas Court of Criminal Appeals — Place 7 D Nancy Mulder R Gina Parker

L Wes Benedict R Valerie Covey* County Constable Precinct 1 D Mickey Chance* R Vinnie Cherrone County Constable Precinct 4 D Kenneth Guerrero R Paul Leal* Local elections U.S. Representative District 10 D Theresa Boisseau L Jeff Miller R Michael T. McCaul* U.S. Representative District 17 D Mark Lorenzen R Pete Sessions* U.S. Representative District 31 D Stuart Whitlow R John Carter* U.S. Representative District 35 D Greg Casar* R Steven Wright

Abolishing the 0.5% local sales and use tax imposed by Travis County Emergency Services District number 2 (also known as the Pflugerville Fire Department) in the city of Pflugerville and decreasing the sales and use tax from 1.0% to 0.5% in all other areas of the district. Travis County Proposition A “Approving the ad valorem tax rate of $ 0.344445 per $100 valuation in County of Travis for the current year, a rate that is $0.025 higher per $100 valuation than the voter-approval tax rate of County of Travis, for the purpose of increasing access to affordable and high- quality child care and afterschool/summer programming and related services for low-income families and developing and administering related workforce and economic development programs. Last year, the ad valorem tax rate in County of Travis was $0.304655 per $100 valuation.” Williamson County Emergency Services District No. 3 Proposition A Adoption of the state law applicable to firefighters that establishes collective bargaining if a majority of the affected employees favor representation by an employees association, preserves the prohibition against strikes and lockouts, and provides penalties for strikes and lockouts.

SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, TRAVIS COUNTY, WILLIAMSON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY ANNA MANESS

KEY: D Democrat R Republican *Incumbent

If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?

Williamson County Sheriff

Why are you the best candidate for this seat?

I am the best candidate for this seat because I am already elected by the Williamson County voters as Sheriff. I have been employed by the Sheriff’s Office since 1993, except for the previous administration of Robert Chody. I have worked in every aspect of the Sheriff’s Office.

I will continue to operate within my budget and create cost savings measures like I have done in the last for four years saving taxpayers millions of dollars. I will continue to keep the office transparent and constitutionally grounded.

Mike Gleason* Occupation & experience: Williamson County Sheriff (2021-present); Law enforcement professional for 31 years sheriffgleasonwilliamsoncounty.com

For 39 years, I have protected and served Williamson County, including 21 years as a Texas Ranger. I have the varied experience needed to improve public safety, increase collaboration and lead WCSO to ensure that Williamson County is a safe place to live and raise a family.

I will run a Sheriff’s Office that is tough on crime [and] accountable to the public; increase cooperation with local, state and federal partners; improve transparency within the community; focus on new programs to protect our community’s most vulnerable populations; and prevent future failed state jail inspections.

Matthew Lindemann Occupation & experience: Williamson County Precinct 3 Constable; Retired Texas Ranger, 39 years as a law enforcement officer lindemannforwilcosheriff.com

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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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY GRACIE WARHURST

Travis County voters to decide on ESD 2 tax cut, fire and EMS

Residents will decide this November whether to cut a half-cent sales tax imposed by the Travis County Emergency Services District No. 2. What’s happening Travis County ESD 2 provides fire suppression, fire prevention and first-response emergency medical care for 77 square miles across Pflugerville and outside of the city. The ballot measure would abolish the half-cent tax the district receives from the city of Pfluger- ville, but the ESD would retain the half-cent tax it gets from residents outside of the city. Pflugerville Residents for Responsible Taxation, self-described as a nonpartisan group of con- cerned citizens, believes the district is overfunded for the services provided. A statement, signed by the PRRT and listing David Rogers, a Pflugerville City Council member, as its spokesperson, urges a “vote for transparency and tax relief.”

The details PRRT argues that since TCESD No. 2 stopped providing ambulance services in 2022, the half- cent tax shouldn’t be going to the district. The city of Pflugerville is currently using an out- side contractor for ambulance services. TCESD No. 2 still provides these services for other areas of the district, and officials say the district’s firefighter paramedics also assist the for-profit ambulance provider within the city. What they’re saying When the tax was first approved by voters in 2000, Fire Chief Nick Perkins said “nobody was talking paramedics or ambulances at that time.” He also says the measure would reduce the district’s budget by 40% and result in 130 layoffs. Also of note PRRT also disputes the TCESD No. 2’s use of the name “Pflugerville Fire Department,” demanding

ESD 2 medical service calls in 2023

247

Strokes

895

Cardiac emergencies

2,682 Motor vehicle accidents

5,148 Medical calls in city of Pflugerville

10,553 Total medical

emergencies calls

SOURCE: TRAVIS COUNTY ESD NO. 2/COMMUNITY IMPACT

the district remove it from the ballot because it is not a city-managed entity. “It’s very confusing for us,” Perkins said, in reference to the demand. “We are also known as the Pflugerville Fire Department—that goes back to our roots of 1955 ...”

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PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY GRACIE WARHURST

Pflugerville City Council Place 5 KEY: *Incumbent

Jim McDonald* Occupation & experience: six years leading the city of Pflugerville, local business owner www.jimmcdonald.com

Melody Ryan Occupation & experience: CPA with budgeting and fiscal management expertise; parks and recreation, finance and bond committees www.melodyryan.com

Promoting fiscal responsibility, enhancing community amenities like parks and recreation, fostering a welcoming business environment, and collaborating on smart, strategic growth that benefits residents. My goal is to manage resources efficiently and build a vibrant, thriving community. What will be your top priorities if you are elected? What uniquely qualifies you for this position? The greatest challenge is balancing growth with fiscal responsibility. I will address this by leveraging my financial expertise to manage resources efficiently, prioritizing projects that meet critical needs and collaborating with stakeholders to promote sustainable, well planned growth for Pflugerville.

Securing our water future is one of our greatest priorities. I am committed to promoting responsible growth, enhancing our public services and ensuring that Pflugerville remains a vibrant and inclusive community. We need fiscally sustainable solutions that will last into the future, not cheap shortcuts.

My qualifications include a CPA background, extensive experience on city finance and bond committees, and 17 years of community service in Pflugerville. I am well equipped to address our city’s needs effectively because I bring strong fiscal management skills and a history of strategic planning and collaborative problem solving.

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

My training in software development provided me decades of experience in seeing the big picture. I constantly play tetris in my head, assimilating new data to continually improve and build the best solution. We need leaders with vision that look at the big picture.

Traffic congestion is one issue I see as our greatest challenge. With the help of citizen input, we are exploring innovative ways to move throughout our city and still maintain a high quality of life. We are the Trail Capital of Texas which reflects my commitment to safe pedestrian travel.

That I am here to be a strong voice for Pflugerville. I am passionately involved in our community, with my kid’s PFISD schools, my neighborhood and the city. I’m committed to listening to your concerns and working together to make our city a better place for everyone. What is something you want Pflugerville residents to know about you?

I am engaged with all facets of our community and am easy to find and have a conversation. Together we can build a stronger and safer community and a vibrant future. I will not speak over you with a bullhorn, but will take the time to understand your perspective.

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PFLUGERVILLE - HUTTO EDITION

Education

PfISD officials talk strategies, areas of focus Safety, communication, and teacher pay and retention are a few areas the Pflugerville ISD community wants the district to focus on, per Superintendent Quintin Shepherd’s online thought exchange, which is part of his 100-day entry plan that will help build out the district’s next strategic plan. The board of trustees discussed the strategic plan and thoughts collected so far during its workshop meeting Sept. 5. Some context PfISD is partnering with N2 Learning to develop the strategic plan, Chief Communications Officer Tamra Spence said. The planning process will take approximately five months. “Obviously with our new superintendent change we were holding off until Dr. Shepherd got here to help guide us through that process,” Spence said.

Hutto ISD launches student data tool Hutto ISD will launch a data viewing plat- form for teachers, parents and students over the 2024-25 school year, providing a detailed view of student information all in one place. What you need to know The district will soon begin using the platform Abre to view student data, identify trends and improve student achievement. The platform, meant to save staff time when building classroom strategies, will be accessi- ble to families in the spring. Data that will be tracked includes: • ACT, SAT, STAAR and other assessments • Student attendance, behavior and discipline • District wide enrollment and demographics • Student schedules

During the workshop meeting, the summary included:

Safety concerns, particularly at Cele Middle School

Teacher pay and retention, with many citing teacher burnout and cost of living

Communication gaps both in the classroom and between administration staff

Better support for special education and Section 504 students

More inclusive and equitable practices across the district

Enhanced community involvement

SOURCE: PFLUGERVILLE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The planning process includes collecting feedback from staff, students and community members, which will be done through Shepherd’s 100-day entry plan and thought exchange, Spence said.

This Pedestrian Safety Month, the Mobility Authority wants to help you stay two steps ahead. Use these tips to keep walkers, runners and cyclists safe.

MOTORISTS

PEDESTRIANS

• Stay alert at intersections for pedestrians. • Slow down in neighborhoods and school zones. • Avoid distractions like cell phones to stay focused. • Leave space between your car and the crosswalk at stops.

• Look both ways and make eye contact before crossing. • Cross at corners and follow signals. • Walk facing traffic if there is no sidewalk. • Wear high-visibility clothing.

MORE THAN MILES

www.MobilityAuthority.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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