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Boerne Fair Oaks Ranch Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 8 JAN. 1 FEB. 2, 2026
2025 Senior Living Edition
The cost of conservation Kendall County works to spend $20M in Proposition A funds to reduce development of natural areas
INSIDE
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Her Elementary School
Prop A consideration area
Esperanza community
Prop A consideration area
ESPERANZA BLVD.
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Also in this issue
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The Esperanza development is next to the proposed land for conservation. Kendall County Prop A funds go toward reducing development in the county’s natural areas. (Ethan Thomas/Community Impact)
Impacts Page 4 Learn about a new hobby store now open in Boerne
Education Page 8 Check out a program coaching students for careers
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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
Impacts
474
• Opened Nov. 24 • 28353 I-10 W., Boerne • www.mcdonalds.com
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5 Heroes Hideout The new card shop specializes in trading card games, offering brands like Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Magic: The Gathering and more. • Opened Dec. 8 • 1026 N. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: Heroes Hideout Boerne 6 Univision The new store at San Antonio’s international airport offers travel essentials, including snacks, drinks, reading materials, pens and medicine. • Opened Dec. 11 • 9800 Airport Blvd., San Antonio • www.flysanantonio.com 7 Lemon Creek Smiles Dentistry The dental practice offers general cleaning services, emergency dental work, orthodontics and more for all ages. • Opened Dec. 16 • 10049 Lemon Creek Blvd., Ste. 109-110, Boerne • www.lemoncreeksmilesdentistry.com Home Helpers Home Care of Boerne Locally owned by Rachel Fisher—the in-home care business offers senior care, companionship, grooming, nutrition management and other services. • Launched November • Serving Boerne, surrounding areas • www.homehelpershomecare.com/boerne-tx
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• Opened Nov. 17 • 25839 W. I-10 frontage road, San Antonio • www.papanachoscantina.com
Now open
1 Bentley Motors The UK-based auto manufacturer officially unveiled its newest showroom where customers can browse select models. • Opened early November • 27605 I-10, Boerne • www.bentleysanantonio.com 2 Papa Nachos Cantina The expanded eatery features a larger space, a bar, a private room for events and a patio area, serving lunch and dinner with reworked menus offering a selection of Mexican dishes.
3 O’Reilly Auto Parts The auto parts store chain has opened its second location in Boerne, offering vehicle parts, accessories, general diagnostic services and more. • Opened Nov. 22 • 1032 N. Main St., Boerne • www.oreillyauto.com 4 McDonald’s This fast food chain has added a new location just off of I-10, near Fair Oaks Ranch, serving classic burgers and more.
Coming soon
8 Alamo Botanicals The San Antonio-based CBD, THC and smoke shop is opening its first location in the Hill Country soon. • Opening late 2025 or early 2026 • 228 W. Bandera Road, Ste. 228, Boerne • www.alamobotanicals.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY ANDREW CREELMAN & JARRETT WHITENER
9 Selah Cafe Coffee + Market Bringing local and house-made coffee, this new cafe will specialize in freshly made, New York-style bagels. • Opening late January or early February • 616 N. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: Selah Cafe Coffee + Market
Now open
Coming soon
Worth the trip
TLC Total Lawn Care The San Antonio-based lawn care service celebrated 25 years in November, serving clients across Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch, San Antonio and beyond. • 18820 FM 2252, San Antonio • www.tlclawncare.com
10 The Model Box A new model building store has opened its doors, offering a selection of historic models, gaming models and other products for hobbyists. • Opened Nov. 25
11 Club Car Wash The car wash chain is planning to open its third location in the Boerne area, offering unlimited car washes, memberships, vacuums and other services. • Opening TBD
In the news
Waymo The self-driving rideshare and taxi service is expanding into San Antonio next year, offering residents a new way to travel across the city.
• 1022 N. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: The Model Box
• 28353 I-10 E., Boerne • www.clubcarwash.com
• Launching 2026 • www.waymo.com
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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
Government
Boerne City Council approves stipend increases for elected officials
Boerne City Council on Nov. 18 approved a resolution increasing the compensation for elected officials. These changes will not take effect for any sitting elected offi- cial; instead, they will be imple- mented after the next election for that position. The cost This resolution will double the pay of the mayor and City Coun- cil, increasing the mayor’s salary from $200 to $400 each month, and City Council’s pay from $150 to $300 each month. According to City Manager Ben Thatcher, since 1925, the compen- sation scale for elected officials has changed numerous times, including the following notable changes: • 1925 : $25 per month set by ordinance • 1977 : compensation abolished • 1980 : council “fees” set per meeting • 2008 : mayor’s stipend set
to $200 per month, council stipend set to $150 per month. The annual payment to all elected officials costs the city $11,400. Upon full implementa- tion of the new pay scale, the city would pay $22,800 each year. The first pay change will take effect after the May 2026 election, which will include races for City Council Districts 1 and 3. Mayor Frank Ritchie said the increase would help compensate elected officials for travel and the cost of a cup of coffee when hosting meetings outside of City Council meetings. “I recognize the amount of hours council members put in with their constituents, the amount of time they put in with city staff, and the amount of time they put in on a daily and weekly basis,” Ritchie said. “It is much appreciated by me, but I think it would be appreciated by the community, and I think it is well worth the increase.”
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Boerne elected official stipend increases Stipends for Mayor and City Council will be increased following the May election cycle for a given seat. The mayor stipend will increase to $400 each month, while city council will increase to $300 each month.
Current official
Term end date
Position
Frank Ritchie
Mayor
2028
Ty Wolosin
District 1
2026
Joe Bateman
District 2
2028
Kyle Michelsen
District 3
2026
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Bret Bunker
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2027
Joseph Macaluso
District 5
2027
SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Boerne City Council approves GBRA water line design amendment Boerne is expanding water capacity with the construction of a new line off Ammann Road. In 2023, the city entered into an agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates Inc. for the design of the water main. While the design was 100% complete, the city of Fair Oaks Ranch is planning an Ammann Road construction project, which will soften the southern corner of the roadway. With this change, the portion of the line going along Ammann Road will need to be redesigned to accommodate the new road path. Boerne City Council approved the design Dec. 9. The details The water main will be dedicated to the Guada- lupe-Blanco River Authority, or GBRA, serving as the second delivery point for the city. The new system will improve fire protection and water redundancy to the eastern portion of Boerne. With the line connecting to the GBRA facility off Ammann Road, design changes were needed to accommodate road construction planned by the city of Fair Oaks Ranch. Boerne staff said the city of Fair Oaks Ranch agreed to reimburse the cost of design changes. The amendment from the city of Boerne costs $26,990, and Fair Oaks Ranch will reimburse $24,260.
Design for Burdick Community Center moves forward Kendall County is preparing for a reno- vation of the Burdick Community Center, which is planned to house county offices. On Dec. 9, commissioners approved fund- ing for the predesign and schematic design services with a cost not to exceed $110,500. The overview The building is planned to house Precinct 2 offices alongside other county depart- ments. Kendall County purchased the center in January 2025 for $4 million . In July, the center was redistricted outside of Precinct 1 into Precinct 2 to be able to house the Justice of the Peace for the precinct. Prior to purchase from the county, the building was used as a community center for Roy Maas Youth Alternatives, an organi- zation focused on children’s residential care and counseling.
Future improvements The GBRA main extension along Ammann Road is being redesigned to account for the softening of the southern road curve.
1 Ammann Road reconstruction 2 Curve softening 3 GBRA plant 4 Boerne GBRA extension
AMMANN RD
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Breaking it down The city of Fair Oaks Ranch will reimburse the city of Boerne for the water main redesign cost, due to Fair Oaks Ranch changing construction plans.
maximum cost of additional design services to city of Boerne
$26,990
electric services consolidation
$2,730
OLD SAN ANTONIO RD.
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Fair Oaks Ranch reimbursement
$24,260
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SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Boerne waste management changes begin Jan. 5
Waste collection days
The same day trash and recycling service will be applied to all residents who utilize waste man- agement. Residents of Herff Ranch will have their trash pickup days moved to Thursdays. The first collection for Herff Ranch on the new schedule will be Jan. 8. City staff said the change in collection dates was made to ensure that defined neighborhoods remain on the same day. Montagno said residents should put their trash and recycling receptacles three feet apart. While pickup for both will occur on the same day, the receptacles will be collected at different times during those days. Changes to waste management will go into effect on Jan. 5.
Waste management in Boerne is planned to have upcoming changes beginning in January. What’s happening? In 2024, the city entered an agreement with WM, with new rates going into effect in January 2025. In January 2026, these rates are expected to increase and the company will switch to same-day trash and recycling pickup, Operations Manager Nick Montagno said. Boerne utility customers will see a monthly rate of $24.96. For residents with an additional waste wheeler cart, the new rate will be $33.22. Montagno said after the 2026 increase, the only increases will be for CPI and fuel adjustment factors.
Monday Tuesday
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SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
Education
BY JARRETT WHITENER
The program aims to teach students vocational skills alongside professional development.
The Straight to Trades Program launched with the participation of 24 students.
Boerne ISD vocational students can participate in the Straight to Trades program, o ering entrepreneurial experience.
PHOTOS COURTESY BOERNE ISD
Vocational students in Boerne ISD have a new program to take advantage of, o ering 12th-grade students the opportunity to learn entrepreneurial and leadership skills before graduation. Straight to Trades Ownership is a program founded within Boerne ISD with the purpose of welding the relationship between trades and business ownership. The overview Started at the end of October, the program takes students through an 11-week business curriculum led by Andrew Flippo, executive director of the Hope Builds Life nonpro t, which promotes local businesses. Flippo said this is a pilot program for the organization, which has been in development over the last year. “We wanted to go to the high school level to Straight to Trades program launches at Boerne ISD
teach some of the high-level skills in building a business, then go into some of the soft skills on the leadership side,” Flippo said. “When they go into the workforce, even if they don’t start a business, they will know how to work better with colleagues and move into a management role.” In the second phase of the program, students will move into the business incubator at Das GreenHaus, where they’ll begin developing their own trades-based companies with mentorship, resources and workspace funded by local spon- sors, according to an Oct. 3 news release. A closer look Das GreenHaus Executive Director Samantha Morganroth said the program will help expand entrepreneurship in the area and provide students with the resources needed to potentially start their own business. “We see so much value in bringing entrepre- neurship to high school students,” she said. “They have just as many brilliant ideas, and they are really excited about businesses and the ideas that they have.” At the end of the second phase, students will participate in a pitch competition, and the winners will have a sponsored membership at Das Green- Haus, providing hands-on experience.
Other contributors to the program include the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce, the Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corpora- tion and community member Michael Ethridge. Why it matters Dorman Vick, Texas AG mechanics/welding teacher at Champion High School, said the program will help ll the growing skills gap in the country. Overall, Vick said he hopes to set an example for education across the state and country, encour- aging other school districts to put a spotlight on vocational education. Vick said the program’s success, which includes an initial 24 students, is a testament to the community’s collaborative e orts as organizations and leaders come together to rewrite how students receive education. “It is beyond humbling to see our community come together and form this Straight to Trades entrepreneurship program,” he said. “Not only have we been, for 21 years, trying to close the wid- ening skills gap, but now we are empowering these students to not only leave here making $80,000 a year, but also own their own companies.”
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Development
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch water utility projects move forward
future-proof the city’s water needs. Mann said over the next 15-25 years, the original plant is likely to need replacing. Fair Oaks Ranch Fair Oaks Ranch City Council on Nov. 20 approved a resolution authorizing the execution of an amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with North Carolina-based Kim- ley-Horn and Associates Inc. for engineering services related to the elevated water storage tank. The agreement was originally approved in 2019 and was planned for construction on the southern portion of the property formerly known as The Reserve. In 2021, the project was put on hold as city staff looked to other construction locations. In 2022, city staff authorized Kimley-Horn to conduct a site feasibility evaluation for a 10-acre property purchased by the city of Boerne. On June 16, Fair Oaks Ranch purchased approx- imately 2.92 acres of the Boerne property for the new storage tank site. With this site change, city staff recommended the amended agreement with Kimley-Horn. Grant Watanabe, director of public works and engineering services, said amendments needed to be made, including: • New topographic survey and geotechnical investigation for the new site • Complete redesign of approximately 3,050 linear feet of water main extending from an existing offsite 12-inch main to the new site to
Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch are working to improve overall water capacity and quality with upcoming utility projects. In Boerne, a new water treatment plant near the city lake is planned, and City Council on Nov. 18 reviewed the pilot study for the expansion. In Fair Oaks Ranch, an elevated water storage tank will be constructed on Ammann Road, increasing water pressure for residents on the city’s northern side. Boerne The original plant at Boerne City Lake was constructed in 1978, with area residents using groundwater prior to lake use, Utilities Director Michael Mann said. Mann said the plant expansion would help meet regulatory requirements from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, targeting chemicals such as Geosmin, an organic compound that gives water an earthy taste and smell. To meet peak demand and accommodate future growth, the plants need to produce around 3.1 million gallons per day, Mann said. “Right now our plant can only produce 1.3-1.5 million gallons today, and we need to augment that,” he said. The cost of the new plant is around $24.2 million and is planned to be operational by 2030. Funding for the facility is planned to be gained through impact fees and revenue bonds. Mann said the cost could be reduced since an additional intake may not have to be constructed. The new facility will also be expandable to
connect the tank to the city’s water distribution system • Restart of Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Federal Aviation Administration permit coordination based on the new design and site location • Easement acquisition—if needed—subsurface utility engineering and plat services for the new site The cost for engineering services under the original agreement was $446,905, and the cost of the contract amendment was $281,987.95, bringing the total to $728,892.95. In addition to the engineering services cost, the estimated construction cost is $8.2 million . "We are estimating about 10 months for redesign, permitting and preparation of bid documents; two months for procurement; and 16 months for construction for a total project duration of about 28 months," Watanabe said.
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Boerne Water Treatment Plant process
1 Boerne City Lake Surface water is pulled from Boerne City Lake for treatment.
3 Water softening The solid contact clarifier softens and removes color and turbidity from the water.
5 Water filtration, color removal The biological active filter uses microorganisms to break down organic compounds and pollutants.
7 Distribution Potable water is delivered throughout the city to be used by utility customers.
6 Storage Water is stored in the clearwell until needed for distribution.
2 Chemical treatment Chemicals are mixed into the water to coagulate and clump contaminants before separating the water.
4 Water disinfection Ozonation is used to disinfect and remove contaminants from the water.
SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT
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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
The cost of conservation From the cover
The overview
Comfort
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Kendall County Prop A properties Properties conserved through Prop A funding are named by the land owner's last name.
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Kendall County is working to conserve property and prevent large-scale development in the county’s natural areas. In 2022, voters supported Proposition A, a bond giving the county $20 million to be spent on “open space and conservation land and acquiring conservation easements on land for any authorized purposes,” according to the ballot language. Because the bonds are interest-bearing, 85% of funds must be spent within three years, requiring the county to pay around $17 million by June 2026. Rusty Busby, chair of the Proposition A Committee formed by Kendall County commissioners in 2023, told Community Impact that the committee is identifying properties to support with funding before the deadline. According to the Texas Agricultural Land Trust, a conservation easement is a voluntary restriction placed on property to protect natural, productive or cultural features. The easement is recorded as a legal agreement between the landowner and the holder of the easement, which may be a conservation organization or government agency.
1621
1 Gill 2 Harte
6 Miller 7 Kennon 8 Chipman
11 Evans 12 Robbins 13 Webster 14 Zinsmeister
3 Haberer 4 Pokorny 5 Rio Lupe
9 J. Drought 10 H. Drought
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Nelson City
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$1.8M for conservation easements $844 spent per acre of land conserved
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$17M in total bond funds required to be spent by June
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SOURCE: KENDALL COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The cost
Kendall County Prop A Funding The county took out $20 million in general obligation bonds for conservation on June 1, 2023.
spend, nearly $13.84 million must be spent by the June deadline to meet the 85% threshold. Busby told Community Impact that the county pays the transaction cost for the properties, which are not to exceed $75,000. Once a trust company is chosen for a conserva- tion easement, it must maintain the property in perpetuity.
Busby said they have secured 2,320-plus acres in conservation easements so far. “That has totaled about $844 per acre that the county has spent from Proposition A money, which is about $1.8 million,” Busby said. In total, the county has spent around $3.16 million of the $20 million over the last two and a half years. With around $16.84 million left to
$20M total Amount remaining to spend by June Amount spent $3.16M $13.84M
$17M
SOURCE: KENDALL COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY JARRETT WHITENER
The process
What they’re saying
After being registered as an easement, the property could be sold, but valued at around 40% of the total property value, Busby said. Starting with an application submitted by landowners or by conservation organi- zations, the property moves through the process of getting the easement approved. Following committee deliberations, the property proposal moves to an executive session agenda for county commissioners before being placed on a future agenda for a public hearing. The public hearing is held to gather input from county residents before county commissioners approve the property. Once the conservation easement is finalized, it will be maintained by the orga- nization that agreed to oversee the property, which is typically the land trust selected by property owners. Since the committee’s inception, the process has been refined to focus on specific properties and areas within the county rather than target every possible easement. While there is no minimum size for an easement, the committee generally consid- ers properties around or above 50 acres in size. “The process has smoothed out as we have become more knowledgeable about what properties we are looking for,” Busby said. Aside from conservation easements, the county is looking at land for public use. Current Prop A parkland includes purchases near the James Kiehl Natural Area and the city of Comfort.
During the course of the bond, Prop A has seen a mix of pushback and support from the community. Kendall County property owner Maxie Zinsmeis- ter on Nov. 25 said the process of getting a conser- vation easement is expensive, with costs around $20,000 or higher that may be recouped through payment from the county, but those costs are not guaranteed. Zinsmeister said if the county pursues Prop A again in the future, there needs to be a way for the county to facilitate and accommodate property owners who may not have the funds to move through the process. “I know people that are property rich, but cash poor,” he said. “They may want to preserve their property, but they don’t have the upfront pay- ments to make it happen.”
“I think a lot of people expected parks, and some residents feel cheated that the land isn’t public.” MICHAEL ETHRIDGE, KENDALL COUNTY RESIDENT
“We have some great parks in Kendall County, and by the end of this, we will have even more open spaces.” RUSTY BUSBY, PROP A COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN
Moving forward
Kendall County must spend 85% of the $20 million from the Prop A fund by June. Busby said larger properties are coming through the process that could absorb a significant portion of that cost. While these conservation initiatives are not formally approved, Busby said he is confident the county will meet the requirement by the deadline, meaning the county is expected to spend around $14 million over the next six months on conservation projects. “We are going to have to do some large deals in order to make our deadline,” Busby said.
Prop A since 2022
2,320 acres preserved through conservation easements
48.25 acres dedicated to parks
$1.36M for park acquisition
SOURCE: KENDALL COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
Events
BY ANDREW CREELMAN
Handmade on Main’s annual Ornament Smashing Head to this local shop for a day of customer appreciation and the smashing of Christmas ornaments to reveal prizes. Preregistration is required. • Jan. 24, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • Handmade on Main, 347 N. Main St., Boerne • www.handmadeonmainboerne.com
• Feb. 7, 6-11 p.m. • $150 (individual tickets) • St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne • www.thecenturions.org/gala-info
January
Worth the trip
February
Restorative Yoga Stretch and meditate at this local yoga class open to all skill levels. Preregistration is required. • Jan. 3, 10 a.m.-noon • $45 (registration fee) • San Antonio Yoga, 101 Oak Ridge Drive, Boerne • www.sanantonioyoga.com/classes Dis-Carded Transform old cards, paper, mail and more into decorative holiday-themed cards to use year-round. Preregistration is required, and all supplies are included. • Jan. 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m. • $49.95 (participation fee) • The Downtown DIY, 206 W. Highland Drive, Boerne • Facebook Event Page Sid the Sloth Ice Cream Making Class Learn how to make homemade ice cream in this kid- friendly workshop featuring an animated character. • Jan. 19, 10 a.m. • $35 (pint of ice cream), $45 (quart of ice cream) • Parkers Ice Creams, 8000 Fair Oaks Parkway, Ste. 2114, Fair Oaks Ranch • Facebook Event Page
Worth the trip
2026 Alamo Classic This gymnastics tournament will feature competitive teams from across the country alongside family-friendly activities, local vendors and more. • Jan. 9-11, times vary • $30 (one-day adult ticket), $50 (adult weekend pass) • Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, 900 E. Market St., San Antonio • www.alamoclassic.com/admissions Ranger Creek 5K Part of the Texas Brewery Running Series, the fun run will finish with a complimentary celebration at a local San Antonio brewery with free beer and live music.
February
Family Night Hike Go on the first guided night hike of the new year and learn about the local nocturnal flora, fauna and environment. • Feb. 6, 6-7:30 p.m. • $30 (per family cost) • The Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/calendar The Centurions of Kendall County 40th annual gala Support local students and businesses by participating in this annual event featuring a costume contest, food, a raffle and more.
Hill District Grandstand Show Check out this week-long agricultural competition across the Hill Country, featuring cow, turkey and horse shows plus mechanic contests while supporting the efforts of the region’s youth. • Jan. 12-17, times vary • Tickets TBD • Kendall County Youth Agriculture & Equestrian Center, 648 FM 289, Comfort; Hill Country Event Center, 3785 Hwy. 27, Kerrville • www.hilldistrictgrandstand.com
Boerne Chocolate Walk Hunt for candy at select local restaurants and shops across the Hill Country Mile to be entered into a raffle for prizes and more.
• Feb. 13-14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Tickets TBD • Main Plaza, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/602/Boerne-Chocolate-Walk
• Jan. 17, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. • $35 (race registration) • 4834 Whirlwind Drive, San Antonio • www.visitsanantonio.com
This list is not comprehensive.
BOERNE 1313 S Main St (830) 249-0115
DOMINION 24603 I-10 (210) 310-3200
VINEYARD 1309 N Loop 1604 W (210) 408-8206
Transportation
BY JARRETT WHITENER
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March. The speed limit on roads within Fair Oaks Ranch city limits is also expected to be reduced. • Timeline: 2024-TBD • Cost: TBD • Source: Stateand federal funding 3 Rolling Acres Trail Project: The Rolling Acres Trail and Willow Wind/Red Bud Hill Water Line Replacement Project will replace approximately 5,600 feet of aging water mains. Update: Red Bud Hill construction was completed on Dec. 10, and work on Rolling Acres Trail began on Dec. 1. Rolling Acres Trail is expected to be nished in February. • Timeline: August-February • Cost: $1.24 million • Funding source: City of Fair Oaks Ranch 4 I 10 and Loop 1604 interchange project Project: Part of the Loop 1604 North Expansion Project, the Loop 1604 and I-10 interchange project will consist of eight yover ramps, roundabouts and a high- occupancy vehicle lane, according to the TxDOT. Update: TxDOT opened the sixth and seventh yover ramps Nov. 17, connecting eastbound I-10 to both directions of Loop 1604. All eight yover ramps are expected to be open by the end of 2026. • Timeline: 2022-2027 • Cost: $463 million • Funding sources: state and federal funds
Upcoming projects
Boerne
WILD OAK HILL SILVER SPUR TRL.
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1 Old Fredericksburg Road Project: Old Fredericksburg Road is planned for reconstruction, with the project cost shared between the city of Fair Oaks Ranch and Bexar County. Update: Through an interlocal agreement, Bexar County became responsible for two-thirds of the construction cost, while the city of Fair Oaks Ranch was left accountable for the remaining third. Upon completion, Fair Oaks Ranch will assume long-term maintenance of the roadway segment. • Timeline: April-Summer 2026 • Cost: $617,647 • Funding source: City of Fair Oaks Ranch, Bexar County
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Ongoing projects
FAIR OAKS PKWY.
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2 Ralph Fair Road Project: Proposed projects along FM 3351 include the construction of the roadway from I-10 to Desperado Way, and from Desperado Way to SH 46, according to the Texas Department of Transportation, or TxDOT. Update: The bridge construction along Ralph Fair Road shifted tra c lanes during the week of Dec. 8. This is the last tra c switch of the project, and the new tra c pattern will be e ective until the project completion in
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The Bank & Trust
The Bank & Trus
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118 W. Bandera Rd. in Boerne (830) 443-5437 thebankandtrust.bank
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Community
BY JARRETT WHITENER
Monthly events are held at the library, o ering activities for all ages.
Library patrons celebrate Día De Los Niños.
The bookmobile allows the library to reach residents with book deliveries and other library services.
PHOTOS COURTESY PATRICK HEATH PUBLIC LIBRARY
Boerne public library expands services, programs
Upcoming library events Each month, the Boerne library host a variety of events for all ages. Here are some of the
SOURCE: BOERNE LIBRARY COMMUNITY IMPACT • Jan. 27: Tabletop Tuesdays • Jan. 28: Sound Meditation upcoming events in January. • Jan. 5: Boerne Beat Poetry • Jan. 8: Mysteries for lunch • Jan. 12: Food for thought • Jan. 17: Coffee and car talk series • Jan. 22: Mary’s Potpourri • Jan. 24: Public memory lab open
Boerne’s Patrick Heath Public Library brought in 175,000 guests over the last year, making it one of the top 5% of libraries visited in the state per capita, Library Director Natalie Shults said. Shults said the library is popular with Boerne ISD students after school and is a place where community members host meetings and other events, making it a pillar of the community. To accomplish the goal of being an accessible community hub, the library o ers programming for all ages, including special programs outside of books and other literature. Through an interlocal agreement with Kendall County, all county residents have access to library services without having to pay the $25 fee. Resi- dents living outside of the county limits must pay the fee for services. The big picture One nontraditional feature of the library is the “Library of Things,” which is a collection of house- hold and other items that can be checked out and used without the need to purchase those items. The items available for checkout range from hobby items, science items, electronics, board games and more. The library receives funding through the city budget, with programs being supported through community partnerships, such as The Friends of the Boerne Public Library, who operate the Friends’ Bookshop Under the Windmill next to
the library. This bookshop o ers a selection of purchasable books, generating revenue to supplement the
public library. What’s new?
One of the new services o ered at the library is a legal kiosk through the Texas Legal Services Center, which provides residents with access to legal resources from the library. Another new addition to the library is the bookmobile, which helps expand library services to residents and gives the library a presence at local events or pop-ups. Shults said the goal is to expand the reach of the bookmobile in the future, and the service will be utilized more with the start of the new year. “We already do homebound deliveries for people who qualify for that program,” Shults said. “People were using their personal vehicles before, which isn’t ideal for a variety of reasons. Really, I think the bookmobile was intended to help with that because that list is growing.” Looking ahead During the Nov. 18 City Council meeting, Shults shared the scal year 2025-26 master plan, highlighting upcoming goals for the library. During the presentation, Shults highlighted the upcoming library kiosk, which will be included in Boerne Fire Station No. 2, being constructed near
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451 N. Main St., Boerne www.boernelibrary.org
the Esperanza neighborhood. This kiosk will give library access to that area of the city without the need to drive to the library. Overall, Shults said the library sta and committees are continually working on ways to bring additional services to the community. A list of services and programs can be found on the library website.
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BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
Community Senior Living Guide
2025
Franklin Park Boerne Type: independent living, assisted living, memory care
Opened: 2003 Total units: 60 (The Haven), 94 (The Laurels) Amenities: activities, meal service • 511 & 575 Knights Cross Drive, San Antonio • https://thehavenandlaurelsstoneoak. seniorlivingnearme.com
Types of communities
Opened: 2018 Total units: 76
Independent-living communities cater to older adults with limited care needs. Most include amenities, such as fitness programs, housekeeping and communal meals. Assisted-living communities specialize in providing care and supervision. These facilities frequently offer a full range of amenities as well as limited medical assistance. Memory care facilities specialize in providing care to seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other cognitive issues. Staff members are trained to help residents manage these diseases. Hospice care is intended to relieve symptoms and suffering associated with a terminal illness in those who have been given six months or less to live. The patient must choose to forgo further curative treatment. Nursing home/skilled nursing facilities provide care to those with illnesses or mental conditions requiring full- time monitoring and medical care.
Amenities: daily activity program, 24/7 assistance, fitness center, courtyard, activity room, movie theater • 18 Old San Antonio Road, Boerne • www.franklinpark.org/franklin-park-boerne-lifestyles
The Waterford at Shavano Park Type: assisted living, memory care
Opened: 2024 Total units: 84
Heritage Place of Boerne Type: independent living
Amenities: happy hours and coffee clubs, trivia nights, themed parties, bingo, bridge and book clubs, sewing and gardening, comedy shows • 4096 De Zavala Road, San Antonio • www.sonidaseniorliving.com/communities
Opened: 1999 Total units: 50 Amenities: beauty salon, game room, transportation, health and wellness center, pets welcome • 120 Crosspoint Road, Boerne • https://heritageplaceofboerne.seniorlivingnearme.com Hummingbird Assisted Living & Memory Care Type: assisted living, memory care Opened: 2023 Total units: 16 Amenities: meal preparation, salon services, daily activity program, medication management • 8602 Flint Rock Drive, Boerne • www.thehummingbirdassistedliving.com Regency at Esperanza Type: independent living Opened: 2022 Total units: 500+ Amenities: private clubhouse, resort pool, fitness center, walking trails, recreational facilities • 601 Esperanza Blvd., Boerne • www.myesperanza.com/regency-at-esperanza
Northeast San Antonio
Serenity Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Care Type: assisted living, memory care, hospice care Opened: 2021 Total units: 23 Amenities: daily activities, barbershop/salon, transportation, outdoor spaces • 6684 Randolph Blvd., Live Oak • www.serenityoaksassistedliving.com Sodalis San Antonio Type: assisted living, independent living, memory care Opened: early 2000s Total units: 60 Amenities: activity program, transportation, meal program, chapel, pet-friendly, 24/7 care • 6849 Crestway Drive, San Antonio • www.sodalissenior.com/ sodalis-windcrest-of-san-antonio This list is not comprehensive.
Boerne - Fair Oaks Ranch
Avir at Boerne Type: rehabilitation, memory care
Opened: 2025 Total units: 96 Amenities: salon, therapy gym, outdoor courtyard, therapy pet visits, group activity program, gardening club • 1102 River Road, Boerne • www.avirhg.com/avir-at-boerne
Boerne LIVIN Type: independent living Opened: 2022 Total units: 180+ Amenities: salon, game room, swimming pool • 3 Shooting Club Road, Boerne • www.boernelivin.com
North San Antonio
The Haven & The Laurels in Stone Oak Type: assisted living, memory care
Coming Soon! Community Impact’s Camp Guide
Scan, call 512.989.1000 or email ads@communityimpact.com Promote your business:
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY ANDREW CREELMAN & JARRETT WHITENER
Boerne - Fair Oaks Ranch
Boerne - Fair Oaks Ranch
Morningside at Menger Springs Type: independent living
Opened: 2004 Total units: 200
Amenities: fitness center, activity program, bistro, dining room, pool, trails, mini golf, massage therapy, chapel, library, wood shop and ceramic shop • 1100 Grand Blvd., Boerne • www.mmliving.org/communities
Town and Country Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Type: assisted living Opened: N/A Total units: N/A
Amenities: transportation, courtyard, beauty salon, recreational activity program, internet, therapy gym, home kitchen • 625 N. Main St., Boerne • www.wellsentialhealth.org/location/ town-and-country-nursing-and-rehabilitation-center
around the corner
Dr. Alfred Flores, DO Adult Care Physician
PEDIATRIC CARE • ADULT MEDICINE
WELLNESS CARE • SICK VISITS • IMMUNIZATIONS
Boerne Campus (210)233-7000 430 W Bandera Rd Suite 9, Boerne, TX 78006
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS!
COMMUNICARESA.ORG
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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION
Community
BY ANDREW CREELMAN
The Center’s dining room provides daily lunches to members alongside various events and community celebrations.
PHOTOS BY ANDREW CREELMAN COMMUNITY IMPACT
The Center provides community, kinship to seniors Having a purpose and a sense of community are two things that Olivia Burdick said are key to supporting our local seniors.
The local impact Not only does The Center provide a safe space for area seniors, but Burdick said they also partici- pate in a number of community programs. “My favorite part about The Center is knowing that every day we are signi cantly impacting a life,” Burdick said. Sta and volunteers at the facility help to run a Meals on Wheels welfare program across the area, where over 56,000 meals are served to Kendall County residents each year, according to Burdick. Additionally, there’s a public thrift shop on-site where anyone can buy or donate used items. Mer- chandise includes clothing, collectibles, household items and more at the shop. Mapping it out “The Center is really here to support social connection and nutrition,” Burdick said. “Those are the two top priorities.” In 2024, Burdick said there were over 60,000 check-ins for activities throughout the year, with 220 people coming into the building each day for programming. Additionally, around 17,000 meals were served to seniors at The Center through their daily lunch program. “It’s bringing a daily wellness check, a daily friendly face and a meal all in one,” Burdick said. Seniors are a piece of the population that is often overlooked by many, and Burdick said The Center is just one important step in supporting that community in the long run.
“Being here to advocate for our local seniors is so important,” Burdick said. “It’s a population that is often not the priority for a lot of people.” Burdick is the CEO of The Center, a community facility for seniors 55 and older in Boerne, serving residents not just in the Hill Country but also the greater San Antonio area. The facility rst opened back in 2010 and was originally known as the Rainbow Senior Center. What’s special about it? The Center o ers just about any kind of hobby, activity and class, ranging from Zumba classes to meditation to watercolor painting. The main building, called Kronkosky Place, is the central hub for these activities. Along with a library and dining area, Burdick said there are also classrooms, a practice chipping green for golf and tness areas on the campus. “We truly are a community center focused on people 55 and older,” Burdick said. “Many of the events and activities here are facilitated by community partners in and around Boerne.” Burdick said that anyone in Boerne and beyond can walk right into The Center to get started with joining the community. “We’ve had people come from Comfort and even Fredericksburg,” Burdick said. Seniors and families from all across the San Antonio area are welcome, according to Burdick.
Olivia Burdick is the CEO of The Center, beginning her tenure with the company as an intern.
Activities at The Center
Wellness screenings
Field trips
Celebrations
Support groups
Dances
Financial training
Health education classes
SOURCE: THE CENTER COMMUNITY IMPACT
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