San Marcos - Buda - Kyle Edition | November 2023

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San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 13, ISSUE 7 NOV. 15DEC. 14, 2023

Development debate continues

Meritage Homes will be bringing hundreds of residential homes to the Kyle area with its Waterstone Crossing development.

AMIRA VAN LEEUWENCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Rise in population and subsequent development projects exacerbates essential service supply

But the population rise has also led to an increase in usage of essential services, such as water, and when faced with a drop in supply, some residents wonder why projects don’t cease, even temporarily.

boom in residential, commercial and industrial developments along the I-35 corridor, including San Marcos’ La Cima and surrounding projects, Kyle’s various residential projects and Buda’s growing rolodex of small, locally owned businesses.

BY ZARA FLORES

The cities of San Marcos, Buda and Kyle have seen a 12%-32% increase in population in the past ve years, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Along with that increase there has also been a

CONTINUED ON 24

Also in this issue

Impacts: Tantra reopens after years-long closure (Page 6)

Education: Grant boosts school safety research (Page 15)

Transportation: I35 ramp work continues in San Marcos (Page 16)

Events: A new renaissance fair to begin in New Braunfels (Page 26)

And you’ve got us along for wherever life takes you. You’ve got this. Your power can take you anywhere.

BSWHealth.com/Buda

Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2023 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-AUS-939956 GD

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Medicare Annual Election Period is October 15th-December 7th, the time of year to check your Medicare benefits!

Barajas Insurance Group Medicare Resource Center

At the Barajas Insurance Group, our goal is to simplify and individualize your insur- ance needs. We are licensed independent agents offering: • Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans • Affordable Care Act (ACA) • Group Health Insurance • Life & Final Expense Insurance

is an insurance agency with no government affiliation. We are now open for all your Medicare insurance needs.

2500 W. William Cannon Drive Bldg. 1, Ste. 101 Austin, TX 78745

We offer most Medicare plans available in this area. Now booking appointments for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period in both English and Spanish with a local Austin licensed agent.

512-956-7946

Calling the number above will direct you to a licensed sales agent. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government or Federal Medicare Program. This is a solicitation for insurance.

Joe and Monique Barajas

Operating since 2018

Offering 24 craft beers on draft rotated on a weekly basis.

We have 50+ Craft beers in packages along with a variety of Wine, Ciders, Seltzers, Non-Alcoholic Beers, and specialty Sodas We off er weekly sales and punch card discount for Growler Fills. Rotating Food Vendor hosted onsite most Fridays. Monthly Pint Night with local and national breweries. JOIN US EVERY MONTH FOR BINGO NIGHT, STEAK NIGHT, GAME NIGHT, FOOD PAIRINGS, SUNDAY BRUNCH, MIMOSA SPECIALS AND MUCH MORE

@Growler_Express

GrowlerExpress for current events and weekly sales.

1567 Main St 800, Buda, TX 78610 • 512 361-0911

We host Private Events : Birthdays, Team building, Anniversary, Business Meetings etc.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

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

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Zara Flores Kameryn Griesser Sierra Martin Katy McAfee Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson

Heather Demere General Manager hdemere@ communityimpact.com

Amira Van Leeuwen Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Joseph Veloz Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Account Executive Adrian Martinez Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Art Production Manager Haley Grace

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Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

16225 Impact Way, Ste. 1, Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases sbknews@communityimpact.com Advertising sbkads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

BLANCO RIVER

Impacts

5 Tantra The coffee shop offers a wide variety of coffee and tea beverages as well as breakfast and lunch. • Opened Nov. 1 • 217 W. Hopkins St., San Marcos • www.tantrasanmarcos.com 6 Buddy’s Burger The Austin-based fast-casual restaurant sells all-beef smash-style burgers with fries. • Opened in October

GUADALUPE ST.

UNIVERSITY DR.

THORPE LN.

San Marcos

MARTIN LUTHER KING DR.

1984

• 927 Hwy. 80, San Marcos • www.buddysburger.com

WONDER WORLD DR.

SAN MARCOS RIVER

7 Miracle Leaf The center provides a team of doctors that evaluate patients by appointment and determine whether to recommend a Texas Medical Marijuana Card. • Opened Nov. 3

123

• 301 N. LBJ Drive, Ste. 127, San Marcos • www.mymiracleleaf.com/san-marcos

1979

1 2

Coming soon

MAP NOT TO SCALE

8 Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Owner Janet Hickerson said the new location is slated to open early next year. The Tennessee-based restaurant offers hand-battered fried chicken with southern sides. • Slated to open in early 2024 • 110 E. Martin Luther King Drive, San Marcos • www.gusfriedchicken.com

• 4015 I-35 S., Ste. 408, San Marcos • www.tanger.com/sanmarcos

Now open

1 Royal Jewelers The jewelry store opened a second location at the Tanger Outlets. Royal Jewelers is owned by local Amin Hussain and sells engagement rings and wedding bands. The shop also sells sterling silver, grills and custom jewelry and offers repairs. • Opened Oct. 28 • 4015 I-35, Ste. 730, San Marcos • Instagram: @royaljewelertangeratx 2 Offline by Aerie The store is located in between Claire’s and Levi’s at the San Marcos Tanger Outlets. Offline by Aerie sells a collection of activewear. • Opened Aug. 31

3 Happy Clouds The Austin-based vape shop is now open in San Marcos. This is the smoke shop’s fifth location. • Soft opened Sept. 15

Relocations

• 210 W. San Antonio St., San Marcos • www.happycloudssmokeshop.com

9 The Salvation Army The nonprofit organization relocated in San Marcos from 300 S CM Allen Parkway, Ste. 100 to a larger space, Service Center Manager Lisa Cruz said. The new location also gives staff more space to have private conversations with clients who may need assistance. • Relocated Oct. 11 • 1346 Thorpe Lane, Ste. B, San Marcos • www.salvationarmytexas.org

4 San Marcos Jiu Jitsu The locally owned martial arts gym specializes in Brazilian jiujitsu and No Gi Grappling for all ages,

levels and styles. • Opened Sept. 5 • 1104 Thorpe Lane, Ste. P, San Marcos • www.smjiujitsu.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ZARA FLORES, SIERRA MARTIN & AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

10 Rent-A-Center Relocated from 1104 Thorpe Lane, Ste. D, to 929D Hwy. 80 in San Marcos. The store offers rent-to-own appliances, electronics, furniture and computers. • Relocated Oct. 30 • 929D Hwy 80, San Marcos • www.locations.rentacenter.com

Now open

In the news

11 The Department of Organization, Workforce and Leadership Studies The department kicked off its 50th anniversary celebration Nov. 2 at Texas State University. • 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.owls.txst.edu/owls-anniversary.html 12 Texas State University Texas State University renamed the Undergraduate Academic Center on its San Marcos Campus to the Denise M. Trauth and John L. Huffman Hall. Trauth served as Texas State’s ninth president from 2002- 2022. Her husband, Huffman, was also honored by the building dedication. • Renamed on Sept. 14 • 610 N. Guadalupe St., San Marcos • www.txst.edu

13 Skip’s Beer, Wine & Liquor This is the liquor store’s second location in San Marcos. Skip’s Beer, Wine & Liquor sells a variety of beer, wine and spirits. • Opened Oct. 23 • 201 Moore St., San Marcos • www.skipsliquor.com

School Fuel San Marcos The local nonprofit organization celebrated its 10th anniversary Oct. 21 at Texas Regional Bank, located at 310 Wonder World Drive, in San Marcos. School Fuel San Marcos, which began in 2013, is a volunteer-based organization that aims to provide San Marcos CISD students facing hunger over the weekend a sack of nutritious and shelf-safe food every Friday. School Fuel does not

have an official headquarters. • www.schoolfuelsanmarcos.org

Models Open Daily! #HappyThanksgiving

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Impacts

• 1190 Veterans Drive, Kyle • www.childrenslighthouse.com/kyle

45 TOLL

967

4 Bloodworth BBQ The barbeque joint is setting up shop in downtown Kyle and will offer a variety of classic barbecue. • Slated to open late November • 210 W. Center St., Kyle • Facebook: Bloodworth BBQ 5 Water Works Express car wash The car wash will include an approximate 6,000-square- foot tunnel accompanied by 29 covered parking spots with vacuums. • Opening date unknown • 2345 Main St., Buda • www.waterworksautospa.com

Buda

1626

2001

WINDY HILL RD.

2001

150

In the news

Kyle

6 JParks Chophouse & Saloon JParks Saloon & Standard changed its name. Owner and local restaurateur Jeff Parks, alongside his team, rolled out a new fall menu Oct. 2. The restaurant is no longer a phone-free zone, and kids are allowed until 4 p.m., after

OLD STAGECOACH RD.

BLANCO RIVER

which it is adults only. • 404 N. Main St., Buda • www.jparkschophouse.com

W. CENTER ST.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

150

7 Proof Liquor & Deli The shop held a grand reopening celebration with a ribbon-cutting Oct. 19 to welcome its new owners John and Rebecca Hatch. Aside from alcohol, the shop offers hot and cold sandwiches, soups, salads, and house- made desserts. • 3420 B RM 967, Ste. B-107, Buda • www.proofliquoranddeli.com 8 Money & More Pawn The pawn shop celebrated its 10th anniversary in Kyle on Oct. 22. • 575 E. FM 150, Bldg. 3, Kyle • Facebook: Money & More Pawn

MAIN ST.

• Opened Oct. 24 • 18920 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Kyle • www.ztejas.com

Now open

1 Em Dash Books Owner Lola Watson stocks her new independent book store in Buda with stickers, bookmarks, books, graphic novels and comics for children and adults.

Coming soon

3 Children’s Lighthouse The preschool accepts up to 220 children, starting at 6 weeks old and offering after-school programs for children up to 12 years old. The business has started formal registration and has spaces available for ages 3 and up, owner Brad Fink said.

• Opened in September • 200 S. Main St., Buda • www.reademdash.com

2 Z’Tejas Z’Tejas offers Tex-Mex cuisine with a Southern flair.

RICK COFER AUSTIN’S GO-TO CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

COFERCONNELLY.COM • 602 W. 11 TH ST., AUSTIN, TX 78701 • 512-200-3801

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ZARA FLORES & AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Now open

In the news

9 Valvoline Instant Oil Change Valvoline Oil Change offers preventive car care services, including oil changes, tire rotations, radiator flushes and more. This is the chain’s first location in Hays County. • Opened Sept. 25 • 5100 FM 1626, Kyle • www.vioc.com

10 The Mercantile at Mill + Grain The shop, which is owned by local Kate Traver, celebrated its fifth anniversary with spirits and oysters Oct. 7. The Mercantile at Mill + Grain sells kitchen and home decor, apparel, baby items and jewelry. • 304 S. Main St., Ste. 101, Buda • www.themercantileatmillandgrain.com

11 Gentlemen’s Grooming 101 Barbershop

The barbershop, located in downtown Kyle, celebrated its 10-year anniversary Oct. 16. It is locally owned by Tony Arredondo and Christopher Ortiz. Gentlemen’s Grooming 101 Barbershop offers haircut services for men, women and children, including regular haircuts, beard trims, hot-lather head shaves and eyebrow shaping. • 225 S. Main St., Ste. 105, Kyle • www.gentsgroom101.com

Dell Children’s is home to the Texas Center for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease, which means we offer the most advanced heart care for children in the region. Led by world-renowned pediatric heart surgeons, we performed 375 open-heart surgeries in the past year, and over the past two years, have completed 17 heart transplants. Our care team is dedicated to your child’s care whether your child has congenital heart disease or needs care for another rare or complex heart condition. We’re also close by, which means your family doesn’t need to travel outside of Central Texas. Start a conversation with a

The most advanced pediatric heart care in the region

pediatric heart specialist today. ascension.org/DellChildrens

Only in Austin . Only at Dell Children’s .

MAKENZIE Dell Children’s patient

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Government

Officials put pin in comprehensive plan The city of San Marcos’ comprehensive plan, Vision SMTX++, has been put on hold until 2024 so that a newly formed council committee can gather more input from the community. What you need to know Vision SMTX++ is an update of the city’s 2013 plan titled Vision San Marcos: A River Runs Through Us. The city has grown by about 25,000 residents since then and the plan looks to update and expand its zoning districts and serve “as the vision for equita- ble and compatible growth.” However, the council put off adoption on Nov. 6 until mid-January so that Mayor Jane Hughson and Council Members Alyssa Garza and Shane Scott can meet with more resi- dents and community members for input.

New police training required due to lawsuit Former state Sen. Wendy Davis, Timothy Hol- loway, David Gins and Eric Cervini filed a lawsuit against Chase Stapp, Brandon Winkenwerder, Matthew Daenzer and the city of San Marcos over the “Trump Train” incident from Oct. 30, 2020, on I-35; The city and plaintiffs came to a settle- ment at the end of October. How we got here On the day in question, the four plaintiffs were on a Joe Biden-Kamala Harris campaign bus, just over a week before the presidential election, traveling along I-35 to an event at Texas State University in San Marcos. During the drive, several Donald Trump supporters surrounded, swerved into and tried to slow down the bus, according to the lawsuit, preventing it from making its campaign stop at the university.

In the works The San Marcos Police Department will be required to take a mandatory training course by July 2024. The course will cover topics such as:

psychology of procedural law

dealing with voter intimidation

building public trust

responding to political violence

CITY OF SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The bottom line The lawsuit alleges the San Marcos Police Department and Director of Public Safety Chase Stapp failed to respond to the escalating incident of intimidation and harassment, which the four plaintiffs said resulted in ongoing psychological and emotional injuries. As for the settlement, the city and the city’s risk pool carrier, Texas Municipal League Inter- governmental Risk Pool, will be splitting the cost for the $175,000.

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Kyle Office 4282 FM 1626, Ste 200 Kyle, TX 78640

Southwest Austin Office 5625 Eiger Rd., Ste 100 Austin, TX 78735

South Central Austin Office 2610 S. IH 35 Austin, TX 78704

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ZARA FLORES

USE DOMESTICALLY EVERYWHERE DEBIT CARDS ARE ACCEPTED Gift Cards are issued by Pathward, N.A., Member FDIC. For customers only. GIVE GIFT CARDS The services office is located on the second floor of the historic courthouse in San Marcos. Services offered include financial assistance, housing resources, claims and other benefits. The Veterans Treatment Court, recipient of $300,000, specializes in the needs of those who have been honorably discharged or are in active service in the military. Another $100,000 went to the Veteran Services The services office, which received a third of the funding, provides assistance to veterans and their family or dependents as long as they are county residents. Hays County received $400K for veterans Hays County is the recipient of $400,000 in grant funding through the Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans’ Assistance for its services office and treatment court. About the programs

Kyle launches water rebate program Kyle officials are working to curb water usage with the rollout of the city’s conserva- tion rebate program. What you need to know Kyle water utility customers are eligible for the rebate program with an account in good standing on devices that help save water. Eligible devices and its maximum rebate are as follows: • $50 for low-flow shower heads • $100 for low-flow toilets • $10 for toilet tank flapper repair kit • $35 faucet-mounted sprinkler timers • $5 for faucet aerators Items must have been purchased after the program began Sept. 19.

Office for financial assistance. The court aims to divert veterans away from the criminal justice system for any behavior linked to physical or emotional injuries sustained during terms of service. Learn more Services offered include: • Disability compensation and other claims • Funds for rent, bills and other necessities • Application assistance • Resources for housing assistance

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

In the classroom and across our 374-acre campus our students are challenged with a curriculum built on Episcopal values for success in college and life. Scan the QR Code to Register Join us for Discovery Weekend, December 1–4

An Experience That Stays With You

St. Stephen’s Episcopal School | Co-Ed, Day & Boarding, Grades 6–12 6500 St. Stephen’s Drive, Austin, TX 78746 | www.sstx.org

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY ERIC WEILBACHER

Higher Education Guide

2023

Local college enrollment

The University of Texas at Austin 2515 Speedway, Austin www.utexas.edu Texas State University 601 University Drive, San Marcos www.txst.edu

Fall student enrollment

Largest academic programs by enrollment Fall 2022

50K

Engineering

40K

6,032

Business Management/Marketing 3,939

30K

Austin Community College 1200 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle www.austincc.edu Texas Lutheran University 1000 W. Court St., Seguin www.tlu.edu

20K

Liberal Arts

10,643

10K

General Business Administration 62

2018 2019 2020 2021

2022

SOURCE: TEXAS HIGHER EDUCATION COORDINATING BOARD & DATA USA/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Less than 9th grade Associate degree

9th-12th grade, no diploma

High school graduate

Some college, no degree

Highest educational attainment

Bachelor's degree

Graduate or professional degree

Hays County

San Marcos

Buda

Kyle

SOURCE: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU 2021 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 5-YEAR ESTIMATES/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Texas degrees awarded in 2022

By public institutions

By gender

By ethnicity

Female

Male

56.79% 164,369

59.11% 178,304

300K 250K 350K 200K 150K 100K 50K

Hispanic/Latino: 116,016 White: 105,401

All other races/ethnicities: 10,048 International: 13,093 Asian: 22,375 African American/Black: 34,726

2018

2022

43.21% 125,084

40.89% 123,355

2018 2019 2020

2021

2022

SOURCE: TEXAS HIGHER EDUCATION COORDINATING BOARD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Education

Area college listings This list highlights a number of two-year, four-year, public and private colleges in the area. This is not a

San Marcos

comprehensive list, and data is based on the most recent figures released by the U.S. Department of Education and/or each respective institution.

Austin

Concordia University Texas Enrollment: 1,707 Average tuition and fees: $50,876 (without financial aid), $25,673 (with financial aid) Top majors offered: nursing; business administration and management; psychology • 11400 Concordia University Drive, Austin • www.concordia.edu Huston-Tillotson University Enrollment: 990 Average Tuition and fees: $25,652 (without financial aid), $10,000 (with financial aid) Top majors offered: business administration and management; kinesiology and exercise science; psychology • 900 Chicon St., Austin • www.htu.edu St. Edward’s University Enrollment: 2,867 (2020-21) Average tuition and fees: $67,544 (without financial aid), $21,000 (with financial aid) Top majors offered: psychology; business administration

Texas State University Enrollment: 38,873 (2023-24) Average tuition and fees: $26,275 (before financial aid), $17,033 (after financial aid) Top majors offered: psychology; business

administration and management; kinesiology and exercise science • 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.txst.edu

Wayland Baptist University Enrollment: 2,393 (2020-21) Average tuition and fees: $35,670 (before financial aid), $24,000 (after financial aid) Top majors offered: business administration and management; liberal arts and sciences; criminal justice/ law enforcement administration • 1672 Independence Drive, Ste. 150, New Braunfels • www.wbu.edu

New Braunfels

Alamo Colleges-Northeast Lakeview College Enrollment: 64,000 (2023-24) Average tuition and fees: $21,170 (before financial aid), $5,138 (after financial aid) Top majors offered: anatomy; chemistry • 2193 FM 758, New Braunfels • www.alamo.edu/nlc/cttc Howard Payne University-New Braunfels Enrollment: 39 (2018-22 average) Average tuition and fees: $494 (undergraduate), $634 (graduate), $100 (dual credit) Top majors offered: business administration; marketing; management; criminal justice; general studies; Christian studies • 2164 Oak Run Parkway, Ste. 103, New Braunfels • www.hputx.edu/nb Texas State Technical College Enrollment: 11,919 (all TSTC campuses) Average Tuition and fees: $4,161 (before aid) Top majors offered: Associate of Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technician Track • 2193 FM758, New Braunfels • www.tstc.edu

and management; communication • 3001 S. Congress Ave., Austin • www.stedwards.edu

The University of Texas Enrollment: 52,000 (2023-24) Average tuition and fees: $29,788 (without financial aid), $18,000 (after financial aid) Top majors offered: biology; computer and information

Seguin

Texas Lutheran University Enrollment: 1,329 (2022-23) Average tuition and fees: $33,920 (before financial aid), $19,069 (after financial aid) Top majors offered: business administration and management; kinesiology and exercise science; nursing • 1000 W. Court St., Seguin • www.tlu.edu

sciences; psychology • 101 E. 21st St., Austin • www.utexas.edu

Kyle

Austin Community College Enrollment: 26,378 (2020–21) Average tuition and fees: $24,276 (before financial aid), $6,612 (after financial aid) Top majors offered: general studies; business/ commerce; nursing • 1200 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle (Hays Campus) • www.austincc.edu/locations

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY SIERRA MARTIN

The Texas School Safety Center, or TxSSC, at Texas State University has been awarded a $1.5 mil- lion grant in support of school behavioral threat assessment programs. The grant will assist the cen- ter in developing an evidence-based approach for identifying individuals who may pose a threat and provide proactive interventions when necessary. The three-year grant will fund a program called “Operationalizing School Behavioral Threat Assess- ment: Enhancing a Statewide Violence Prevention Model through Target Technical Assistance.” The specics “In an eort to strengthen statewide delity of implementation, sustainment and enhancement of the school behavioral threat assessment pro- cess, the TxSSC saw a need to work directly with district teams to assist with taking the theoretical knowledge gained in the training and put it into practice at the school level,” TxSSC Director Kathy Martinez-Prather said. According to a news release, the project will expand technical assistance sessions on threat assessment, and prioritize rural districts and dis- tricts with a functioning school behavioral threat assessment team for less than three years. Texas public school districts have been required to establish a trained multidisciplinary school behavioral threat assessment team to serve each campus since 2019 due to the Texas Education Code. $1.5M to fund behavioral threat programs

The Texas School Safety Center is a research center at Texas State tasked in Chapter 37 of the Texas Education Code with key school safety initiatives and mandates, as being taught to this class of educators, according to the university.

COURTESY TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY

Funding safety research The Texas School Safety Center manages over $22M in designated research funding from federal and state agencies.

Diving in deeper “The goal of a threat assessment is to identify students of concern, assess their risk for engag- ing in violence or other harmful activities, and identify intervention strategies to manage that risk,” according to a report published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security National Threat Assessment Center. The TxSSC provides state-mandated training and resources to help districts implement the school behavioral threat assessment process. During the sessions, district teams meet with a specialist who provides customized guidance and resources to the unique needs of each district.

Texas legislature: $10.99M National Institute of Justice: $4.54M U.S. Department of Justice: $2.88M Texas Health and Human Services: $2.19M Texas Department of State Health Services: $1.57M

$22.17M Total

SOURCE: TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BUILDING BRIGHTER FUTURES since 1973

austincc.edu

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Transportation

BY KATY MCAFEE

TxDOT makes progress on San Marcos I35 ramp reversals

San Marcos drivers headed southbound on I-35 will continue to notice lane shifts and may need to pivot from their usual exit through at least 2025 as the Texas Department of Transportation continues working on its four-year plan to improve mobility at I-35 and Hwy. 123. What’s happening TxDOT is working on reversing and relocating four ramps along I-35 near Hwy. 123 to help ease trac backups. Reversing ramps means TxDOT is turning some former entrance ramps into exit ramps and vice versa. TxDOT permanently closed the southbound exit at Hwy. 123 in September while crews worked on building a new one. Drivers looking to exit at Hwy. 123 need to take the CM Allen Parkway exit farther north. The major construction ramp reversals along I-35 can cause some confusion for drivers, said Bradley Wheelis, senior communica- tions ocer for TxDOT.

CM ALLEN PKWY.

123

The overview The ramp reversals are part of TxDOT’s I-35 mobility project. In addition to the ramp changes, the project will also improve drainage and recon- struct portions of the frontage roads. • Timeline: August 2021-early 2025 • Cost: $107 million • Funding sources: TxDOT, Capital Metropolitan Planning

The intersection at I35 and Hwy. 123 in San Marcos.

sun the @ fun

AMIRA VAN LEEUWENCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Lakeside Amenity Center Opening in 2024! New

Just 15 minutes south of downtown Austin, Sunfield offers endless ways to have fun in your own backyard! Enjoy the miles of hike and bike trails , catch and release ponds , the dog parks or our two spectacular Amenity Centers including Swimming Pools , a Lazy River and plenty of shade!

austin

2001

buda

CASTLEROCK • CENTEX • CHESMAR HOMES • DAVID WEEKLEY HOMES BRIGHTLAND HOMES • PULTE HOMES • TAYLOR MORRISON

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

SAN MARCOS 510 Barnes Dr (512) 392-0366

CREEKSIDE TOWN CENTER 263 Creekside Crossing (830) 608-1969

SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 IH-35 Service Rd S (512) 280-7400

NEW BRAUNFELS 1671 IH-35 S (830) 629-0434

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY APRIL KELLEY

Streak of daily traffic fatalities to reach 23 years in Texas

Nov. 7 will mark 23 years of daily traffic fatalities on Texas roadways, according to the Texas Depart- ment of Transportation, if the streak continues. The gist According to TxDOT, Texas has not had one day without a traffic fatality since Nov. 7, 2000. On average, the state sees 10 deaths on Texas road- ways each day. As of Oct. 6, 3,057 fatalities have occurred as a result of 2,757 fatal crashes, according to TxDOT’s Crash Records Information System. A total of 4,481 traffic fatalities occurred in 2022 in Texas, down 16 from the 4,497 that occurred in 2021, according TxDOT. Traffic fatalities, however, were higher in 2022 than they were in 2020, which saw 3,896 total traffic fatalities. Background TxDOT launched its #EndTheStreakTX cam- paign Nov. 15, 2016, to raise awareness of daily

5K 4K 3K 2K 1K 0 Traffic fatalities 2003-2023

*AS OF OCT. 6

17.24% increase from 2003-2022.

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

traffic fatalities and to encourage safe driving, with the goal of ending the daily streak of deaths. TxDOT asks all Texans to: • Make the best and safest decisions behind the wheel. • Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

• Always obey traffic laws. • Always wear a seat belt.

• Post pictures on social media with a download- able sign using the hashtag #EndTheStreakTX. • Share personal stories on social media of loved ones who died in a crash using the hashtag #EndTheStreakTX.

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Development

BY ZARA FLORES

TCEQ receives 46 public hearing requests for Persimmon development

What happens next?

If Buda and MileStone come to a development agreement, the city will annex the property into its limits and provide utility services. MileStone will be required to abide by the city’s development standards and will work on site-wide infrastructure improvements. If neither party can come to an agreement, then MileStone will continue forth with its MUD and only need to abide by Hays County regulations. Both city and development officials have expressed the desire to come to an agreement. “We’re encouraged by the city of Buda’s most recent term sheet and are most optimistic that we might be able to build the project in the city of Buda’s jurisdiction,” MileStone CEO Garrett Martin said in a statement. A public hearing has yet to be scheduled, according to the TCEQ website.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has received dozens of requests for a public hearing over MileStone Community Builders’ petition to form a municipal utility district for its Persimmon project just outside of the Buda city limits. Under a new state law, the developer opted to pull out of the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction and is now unincorporated Hays County territory. MileStone submitted the petition to create a MUD in June. “The reason we got to this point is that we’ve heard from numerous property owners adjacent to the property expressing concerns about density, traffic, trees, impacts on wildlife and on the water supply,” City Manager Micah Grau said.

Working in tandem While MileStone officials aim for a MUD, they will still work with the city on some updated terms that still need to be met:

Establish timelines for transportation improvements Dedicate land for fire and emergency medical services station Allot no more than 2,300 residential units, down from 2,800

Tree mitigation

Develop aquifer storage and recovery to help meet water demands

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walking trail of lights with s’mores & hot cocoa

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

78666 Number of homes sold

September 2022

September 2023

Residential market data

Homes in San Marcos, Buda and Kyle all sat on the market longer in September compared to the same month last year, according to data from the Austin Board of Realtors. Additionally, all three communities saw fewer homes sold and a drop in home prices year over year.

102

-39.22%

78640

78666

146

-32.9%

78640

78610

-18.82%

Median home sales price

2022

2023

78666

-2.44%

$354,990

$363,882

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

78640

-2.73%

$364,750

$375,000

78610

-9.2%

$395,000

$435,000

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

From the cover

Development debate continues

Two-minute impact

967

Mapping the future Officials with Buda, Kyle and San Marcos have approved developments that range from small, single-story buildings to large industrial complexes, sometimes met with push back from residents and community members over the continued approval of projects. City officials approved a handful of development agreements since 2022:

Buda

1626

With the summer season in the rearview mirror and cooler temperatures ahead, experts are predicting a wet winter this year that could help the region rebound; however, dropping water levels and a multitude of projects throughout the area caused some concern for residents. Many cities saw an increase in water usage, and some fared better than others in keeping within their allotted water supplies. By the end of August, the city of Kyle had used up 89% of its water allocation from the Edwards Aquifer Authority for the whole year. San Marcos officials approved a water-sharing agreement with the city of Kyle on Sept. 19. However, many residents and community members have posed a very similar question: why are cities still approving developments, even though water supplies are strained from demand? This time last year, Kyle City Council Member Yvonne Flores-Cale brought up the topic of moratoriums for discussion at a meeting as she had concerns over the city’s basic infrastructure. The item was promptly shut down by the rest of the dais, she said. Halting all developments would require a development moratorium, which city leaders and elected officials have said is not in the realm of possibility. In the last six months, there have been many projects announced or approved by councils of varying sizes that require water which— legally—must be supplied by whichever city the development is in.

ROBERT S. LIGHT BLVD.

133

2001

150

Buda - 0 Kyle - 15 San Marcos - 8

GOFORTH RD.

Planned or ongoing development

Kyle

BUNTON CREEK RD.

SOURCE: CITIES OF BUDA, KYLE AND SAN MARCOS

150

HOPKINS ST.

San Marcos

WONDER WORLD DR.

123

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BY ZARA FLORES

What you need to know

What’s being done

In the months since Flores-Cale brought her development and water concerns to the dais, cities have taken steps to boost water diversity and drive projects that fall in line with development standards.

Chapter 212 of the Texas Local Government Code states that a municipality can adopt a mor- atorium on property development if it is justified by a shortage of essential public facilities, such as water. Moratoriums can also be enacted if other city services, such as the police or fire depart- ment, are in dire need of help, or if it’s proven that regulations or new ordinances on existing projects would not outweigh the effects of new developments. Legally, cities only have so much power when it comes to regulation, Flores-Cale said—and with the influx of new residents—developments continue on to provide housing, restaurants, retail and other services. The last time a moratorium was enacted in the city of Kyle was in 2002, as a result of extreme drought conditions and water strain. However, Dripping Springs had a moratorium in place during the latter part of 2022 due to a lack of wastewater capacity.

Taking control City officials only have so many options when it comes to being able to regulate or steer projects and developments, Flores-Cale said.

Development agreements City officials can meet and negotiate with developers to come to an agreement regarding the project, regardless of zoning. This is more of a collaborative process that involves compromise. Zoning Land privately owned may be rezoned through the city; however, the planning and zoning commission or City Council must approve the request. • Example: A parcel of land zoned for industrial would need to be rezoned to build residential homes, and vice versa.

With little land left, Buda officials are picky when it comes to approving developments and have approved 0 since 2022.

The city of San Marcos is working on its Vision SMTX++ comprehensive plan, which is set to drive and change the landscape and zoning of the city.

Kyle anticipates 5% of population growth annually for the next several years so officials will be increasing impact fees charged to developers by about 50%.

Looking ahead

What’s in store The passage of SB 28 will result in a myriad of projects throughout the state to bolster its water infrastructure and needs. Funding will go toward: Permit-ready water infrastructure projects Water conservation awareness programs Heightened focus on small, rural communities

The board will be responsible for tackling the state’s “failing infrastructure,” bill author Sen. Charles Perry said. “[SB 28] creates a pathway for funding water projects that our grandkids will be around for,” Perry said. “Future members of this body will be reminded about how important water is to this state.”

Following the Nov. 7 election, voters approved Senate Bill 28, which will provide billions of dollars for water resources and will fund state infrastructure improvements through the Texas Water Development Board. The board collects water-related data, assists with water supply planning, and runs programs for water-related projects.

SOURCE: TEXAS SENATE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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visit www. doralacademytx .com for more details DORAL ACADEMY IMAGINATION. INNOVATION. EXCELLENCE. Grades PK-8th. APPLY TODAY! • Science Fair projects K-6/Science Fair Night • STEM time incorporated into daily schedules • STEM SCOPES Science Curriculum • Afterschool Gaming Club • Monthly STEM activities to include challenges, assemblies and presenters •

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Events

New fair brings medieval fun to Central Texas The tucked-away corner of New Braunfels that comprises Heritage Village, The Museum of Texas Handmade Furniture and Conservation Plaza typically devotes its space to 19th century history. But on Dec. 8, Heritage Village will be taken back much further in time. The specics The inaugural New Braunfels Renaissance Faire will take place Dec. 8-10 and will host a variety of traditional Christmas celebrations throughout the weekend. Visitors can try their hands at archery, foam sword ghting, ax throwing and more. The faire will also have steel sword ghting demonstrations, jugglers and Circle Arts Theatre will be on hand to perform Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” and more than 60 vendors will be on hand with unique Christmas gifts and medieval wares.

Organizers Justin and Alina Ball (left), and Izzy and Lark Mason III founded the New Braunfels Renaissance Faire.

PHOTOS BY ERIC WEILBACHERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

337

1370 Church Hill Drive, New Braunfels www.nbrenfaire.com

Raul Alvarado (left) is the ght coordinator for the New Braunfels Renaissance Faire.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ERIC WEILBACHER & AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

with holiday music performed by local school choirs and bands. There will also be food and vendors. Santa will also be available for free pictures. • Dec. 1, 4-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • Mary Kyle Hartson Park, 101 S. Burleson St., Kyle • www.cityofkyle.com/recreation Budafest This annual event will have a downtown tree lighting with an ornament market, pictures with Santa, a parade and a vendor market. • Dec. 1, 5-9 p.m.; Dec. 2, noon-9 p.m.; Dec 3, noon-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • Downtown Buda, 303 Main St., Buda • www.budafest.org Holiday Sip N Stroll: Plaid Tidings With the purchase of a ticket, attendees will receive a commemorative glass, a tote for purchases, and a one- of-a-kind holiday ornament while tasting a variety of spirits and food from local restaurants. • Dec. 8, 5:30-9 p.m.

November

Buda Turkey Trot This annual 5K running event will benefit the Hays County Food Bank. There will also be a free kids sprint. • Nov. 23, race begins at 9:15 a.m. • Ticket prices vary • Sunfield Lazy River Amenity Center, 6910 Sunfield Parkway, Buda • www.athleteguild.com/event/buda-tx Angels & Mistletoe Holiday Market There will be Christmas music; pictures with Santa; and vendors selling clothes, gifts, holiday and home decor, jewelry, art, candles, and more. • Nov. 24, 5-8 p.m.; Nov. 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Nov. 26, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Ticket prices range from $7-$20 • Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos Hotel & Conference Center, 1001 E. McCarty Lane, San Marcos • www.visitsanmarcos.com/events

Jingle Bell Run 5K Run through downtown San Marcos and the city’s Historic District. The race will start and finish at the San Marcos Plaza Park. There will also be Christmas music along the route. “Best Festive” voted by the crowd will win a new TV. • Dec. 9, race begins at 9 a.m. • Ticket prices vary • San Marcos Plaza Park, 206 N. CM Allen Parkway, San Marcos • www.sights-n-sounds.org/5k-run

December

• Tickets are $35 • Downtown Buda • www.downtownbudatx.com/sip-n-stroll

Santa’s Arrival This family-friendly event will feature Santa’s arrival

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CHECK OUT OUR NEW AMENITIES: PLAYGROUND STRUCTURE, SPLASH PARK, AND SPORT COURT WITH PICKLE BALL! Out where gentle breezes blow across the rolling Texas prairie, there’s a place for families to connect in an active community with all the comforts of home. Crosswinds features a swimming pool, splash area, dog park, hike & bike trails and playgrounds – and even more exciting new additions coming soon to this beautiful master-planned community!

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

S��’� A�� Dec. 1st • 4 - 9pm • Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park Bring your family to kick-off the Holidays with Santa at Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park! Come enjoy holiday music, kids activities, photos with Santa, a gingerbread house competition, and the annual tree lighting! CityOfKyle.com/SantasArrival S�� R��e� �� K�� Dec. 12th - 14th • 5 - 8:30pm Santa is riding in the City of Kyle to spread cheer! There are great spots to catch Saint Nick at our parks, but you can also catch him cruising through neighborhoods in city limits. For routes and times, visit: CityOfKyle.com/SantaRides Ch�i��a� M�� Pa�� Dec. 8th • 6pm • Lake Kyle Bring a friend and a blanket, and come out to our Christmas Movie in the Park at Lake Kyle! Enjoy the lights, Hot Coco, and The Grinch (2018) to celebrate the holidays! Be sure to arrive early to enjoy Christmas music, and bring a letter for Santa to be entered into a raffle! CityOfKyle.com/Calendar 25D�y� �� Ch�i��a� Dec 1st - 25th • Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park Lights turn on 5:30pm nightly with special events on Thurs, Fri, and Sat! CityOfKyle.com/Calendar

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