Round Rock Edition | March 2024

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Round Rock Edition VOLUME 19, ISSUE 7 MARCH 6APRIL 4, 2024

2024 Camp Guide

Budgets tighten for

ISDs as school options grow

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

In the last decade, parents in Round Rock and other northern suburbs have had more options to educate their children, such as new private and charter schools, and an increased acceptance of homeschools. The resulting exodus of students from Round Rock ISD is causing funding challenges for the district. School districts receive funding based on attendance, making student enrollment an important factor as districts face nancial hurdles from the state and immedi- ate communities. Simultaneously, enrollment data indicates many families feel the districts are not meeting their needs, and are seeking more satisfying options.

Students color at Meridian World School, one of many alternative education options in Round Rock.

CONTINUED ON 28

COURTESY MERIDIAN WORLD SCHOOL

Also in this issue

Impacts: Austin Pets Alive opens Round Rock store (Page 6)

Education: RRISD eyes possible budget cuts (Page 16)

Transportation: Work stalls at Red Bud Lane intersection (Page 21)

Dining: The Rock Sports Bar mixes food with game day (Page 41)

Premium sponsor

OPEN NOW

Life-changing care now in Austin.

Specialized treatment and procedures for women and children.

TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL NORTH AUSTIN CAMPUS IS NOW OPEN.

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

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

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

ROUND ROCK EDITION

LEGACY OF COMPASSION CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

The Serving Center must raise $350,000 by April 11th to unlock a $1.3M Challenge Grant from a foundation! The capital campaign expansion will double the food pantry size, double the sales revenue, and increase the financial assistance for our neighbors in need. Please consider a stretch gift or pledge of any amount to finish this campaign! *Pledges can be paid over 3 years and gifts of $10,000+ will be recognized on our donor wall. YOUR GIFT MATTERS

-$7M

-$5M

LEGACY OF COMPASSION CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

-$7M

We have nearly reached the finish line and have just over $600,000 left to raise to meet the Mabee Challenge by April 11th, securing a $1.3M grant, and FINISH THIS CAMPAIGN!

-$2M

-$5M

YOURGIFTMATTERS

We invite you to consider a stretch gift or pledge of $50,000, $25,000, $10,000, $5,000, $2,500 or other amount to close out the last 10% of this campaign! *Any gift $10,000+ will be recognized on our donor wall and pledges can be paid out over 3 years

JOINUSTODAY ORLEARNMORE JOIN US TODAY OR LEARN MORE 512.244.2431 | RRASC.ORG

-$2M

512-244-2431 RRASC.ORG

FOR THE COMMUNITY | BY THE COMMUNITY | WITH THE COMMUNITY

IT’S UP TO US TO TURN THIS VISION INTO AREALITY

CONTACT INFO: LORI SCOTT

(EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR) lori_c_scott@yahoo.com

LIFTING UP OUR NEIGHBORS FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Zara Flores Kameryn Griesser Sierra Martin Katy McAfee Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Roger Ibanez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Brendan Rodriguez

Amy Leonard Bryant General Manager abryant@ communityimpact.com

Joseph Veloz Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Kasey Salisbury Managing Editor Matt Stephens Senior Art Production Manager Haley Grace Publisher Travis Baker

Grant Crawford Editor gcrawford@ communityimpact.com

Steffanie Bartlett Account Executive sbartlett@ communityimpact.com

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 Pflugerville, TX 78660 • 512-989-6808 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases rrknews@communityimpact.com Advertising rrkads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

communityimpact.com

@communityimpactnews

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS | CREATING SMILES

Beautiful State of the Art Office (all digital) Comprehensive Cosmetic Dentistry (whitening, veneers, smile makeovers) CEREC (same day crowns and bridges) Prosthodontics (partials and dentures) Treatment of Periodontal Disease

Oral Surgery / Implants Pediatric Dentistry (all ages, playroom and TV for kids) Orthodontics Endodontics (root canals) Emergency Patients Welcome

3401 Royal Vista Blvd #102 Round Rock, TX

Michelle Cantú Photography

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Impacts

4 Taqueria Mi Tia The locally owned Mexican restaurant serves breakfast tacos, regular tacos, soups and staple dishes, such as enchiladas, flautas, gorditas, sopes and quesadillas. • Opened Feb. 3 • 1100 Gattis School Road, Ste. 300C, Round Rock • Facebook: Taqueria Mi Tia 5 Ghama Zone Korean Food The independently owned Korean restaurant serves modern and traditional Korean cuisine, including soups, noodles, salads, kimbobs and ggochi. The downtown spot is the former location of El Takobar. • Opened Feb. 1 • 118 E. Main St., Round Rock • www.ghamakf.com

1460

HOPPE TRL.

CHISHOLM TRAIL RD.

UNIVERSITY OAKS BLVD.

A.W. GRIMES BLVD.

1431

Round Rock

JOE DIMAGGIO BLVD.

6 10 11

130 TOLL

CHISHOLM TRAIL RD.

Coming soon

ROUND ROCK AVE.

7 4

6 Knockouts Barbershop The men’s salon leased a unit in the new Diamond 79 development in western Round Rock in February. The sports-themed, full-service salon will offer hair coloring, waxing, massages and more for men and boys. • Opening TBD • 2980 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Unit 110, Round Rock • www.knockouts.com 7 Odds Sports Bistro The new bar and restaurant concept is owned by the former Food Network host John Green. The dining spot will combine an elevated drink program with a menu of sports bar staples, such as burgers and salads, Green said. • Opening this summer • 1401 S. I-35 Frontage Road, Ste. 130, Round Rock • www.johngreen.biz 8 Salute Liquor The new locally owned liquor store will offer beer, wine,

620

45 TOLL

MAP NOT TO SCALE

MOPAC

Round Rock

shop offers a variety of hot and cold brewed coffee; hot and cold brewed teas; and milk tea topped with boba pearls, jellies and popping boba. • Opened Feb. 10 • 1312 Round Rock Ave., Round Rock • www.fatbeecafe.com 3 Pedroso’s Pizza The Austin-based pizza restaurant expanded into Round Rock with a new location in a trailer at the Round Rock Tavern on Jan. 20. The new pizza spot serves Long Island-inspired square pies, as well as Detroit- and Sicilian-style pizzas. Pedroso’s also offers catering services for large orders. • Opened Jan. 20

Now open

1 Austin Pets Alive Thrift Store A grand opening was held Feb. 17 for a fourth location of the Austin Pets Alive Thrift Store. Merchandise proceeds will fund the animal rescue organization’s efforts in the Austin metro area. • Opened Feb. 17 • 913 N. I-35, Round Rock • www.austinpetsalive.org/shop/thrift 2 Fatbee The artisanal Vietnamese bubble tea shop opened its first Texas location in Round Rock in February. The tea

liquors and spirits. • Opening in March

• 105 E. Old Settlers Blvd., Ste. 104, Round Rock • No website or telephone available as of press time

• 113 Main St., Round Rock • www.pedrosospizza.com

Immediate openings for 0-5 years old. Research proves bilingual kids have supercharged brains. Comprehensive Curriculum Real Spanish Immersion Social & Emotional Readiness

Book tour now

Summer Camp 7:30AM-6:00PM 0-7 YEARS OLD

Happy Teachers Convenient Location

INIC-edu.com (512)435-7868

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY KAMERYN GRIESSER & BROOKE SJOBERG

Now open

Coming soon

9 Casa Turquesa Boutique The store offers handmade items from Mexico and Texas, including pillow covers, table runners, decor, jewelry, bags, serapes and clothing. The boutique was previously based out of Wimberley, but the former location will be closing, according to owner Mayra Pantazopoulos. • Opened Feb. 8

12 Clothes Mentor The resale clothing store sells gently used name-brand and designer clothing, shoes and accessories. The franchise has other locations across the state, but this will be the first store in the Austin area. • Opening in late March • 201 University Oaks Blvd., Ste. 400, Round Rock • https://roundrocktx.clothesmentor.com

Eggs Up Grill The breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant will expand its Texas presence with eight new locations planned for the Austin metro area. Four locations will are planned for the North Austin area by Michael and Rana Bosleah, who also own Hurricane Grill & Wings in Round Rock.

• Opening TBA • Locations TBA • www.eggsupgrill.com

• 8 Chisholm Trail Road, Round Rock • www.casaturquesaboutique.com

10 Sugar Shack The candy store leased a unit in the new Diamond 79 development in western Round Rock in February. • Opening TBD • 2980 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Unit 130, Round Rock • No website or telephone available as of press time 11 Lucky Lion The owners of Lucky Hippo in Hutto are bringing their legal gambling concept to Round Rock with sweepstakes machines and other arcade games that donate proceeds to local charities. • Opening in May • 2980 Joe DiMaggio Blvd., Ste. 140, Round Rock • No website or telephone available as of time

Expansions

In the news

13 Office Evolution The commercial office space for those in need of meeting rooms, private offices and co-working space is undergoing an expansion of 3,100 square feet on its first floor. Work on the expansion began in January, and is expected to be completed and ready for move-in in March, according to owner Lee Linton. Office Evolution first opened in January 2022. • Opening in March • 551 S. I-35, Ste. 300, Round Rock • www.officeevolution.com/locations/round-rock

14 Pinthouse Pizza The Austin-based brewery and pizzeria marked five years of operation of its Round Rock location on Feb. 5. • 2800 Hoppe Trail, Round Rock • www.pinthousepizza.com/round-rock 15 Round Rock Sports Center The Round Rock Sports Center, which officially opened for operations Jan. 28, 2014, marked its 10-year anniversary. The $14.5 million facility was funded through revenue from the city’s hotel occupancy tax. • 2400 Chisholm Trail Road, Round Rock • www.sportscapitaloftexas.com

LEARN MORE

Your Local Expert for Business Logo Apparel • Custom Embroidery Items • NoMinimums • Fast Turnaround • Multiple Quantity Discount

Veteran Owned and Operated

512-734-8553

1108 S. IH-35, Round Rock, Texas

acrossthestitchembroidery.com

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Impacts

Pflugerville

138

137

Now open

A.W. GRIMES BLVD.

RED BUD LN.

1 BarnYen by thaispice The restaurant serves a variety of traditional Thai food, including fried rice, curry and pad thai. Customers will also find a range of wine, sake and beer. • Opened Jan. 30 • 21315 SH 130, Ste. 150, Pflugerville • www.barnyenatx.com

MARTIN LN.

45 TOLL

GREENLAWN BLVD.

130 TOLL

STONE HILL DR.

TOWN CENTER DR.

Coming soon

TERRELL LN.

2 HTeaO Construction of a new HTeaO, owned by Bethany Beeman, is underway. HTeaO serves a wide variety of tea and coffee brews, including a secret menu with drink names such as the mango tango and pink flamingo. • Opening in May • 701 Kay Lane, Pflugerville • www.hteao.com 3 Hobby Lobby Craft and home decor store Hobby Lobby will soon service the Pflugerville area, opening its doors for

Pflugerville

VISION DR.

KAY LN.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Conquer cholesterol Attend our heart health webinar You have the power to keep your heart going strong. And understanding your cholesterol is a great place to start. Some cholesterol is good—some not so much—but no matter your numbers, you can take steps to stay in control. Join our heart experts for a conversation about managing cholesterol to help protect your heart.

Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2024 Baylor Scott & White Health. 13-ATX-989122 BID

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY MCLEOD

business in March. The artisanal craft company boasts a large inventory of holiday crafts, art supplies, custom framing options, scrapbooking materials, fabric and

Coming soon

sewing accessories. • Opening March 18 • 2400 Terrell Lane, Pflugerville • www.hobbylobby.com

Relocations

4 Larb Thai Larb Thai opened on Grand Avenue in Pflugerville, in a partnership with Suga’s Cakery. The food truck, previously located downtown, offers a late-night food option in the area, open Thursday-Sunday, 10 p.m.-4 a.m. • Relocated Feb. 9 • 1100 Grand Avenue Parkway, Ste. 112, Pflugerville • www.larbthaitx.com 5 Massage therapist Rebecca LMT Rebecca LMT relocated from Round Rock to Pflugerville in January. Located inside of Bodies By Design, Rebecca LMT offers personalized massage services, including Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial and craniosacral techniques. • Relocated Jan. 1 • 15635 Vision Drive, Ste. 103 • www.rebeccalmt.com

6 Hawaii Fluid Art Hawaii Fluid Art, opening in March, will provide artists of every level a unique space to try new art techniques in a professional setting. The nationally franchised company provides a variety of classes, materials and experiences, including resin and glass workshops. Classes begin at $65 for adults and $35 for children. • Opening March 9 • 1513 Stone Hill Drive, Ste. 300, Pflugerville • www.hawaiifluidart.com

7 Pickleland A spacious indoor pickleball facility, aptly named Pickleland, is coming to Pflugerville. Currently under construction, the facility will boast nine fully fenced and climate-controlled courts, properly spaced and level for the most ideal

playing conditions. • Opening in June • 21427 Martin Lane, Pflugerville • www.pickleland.com

Staying ahead of the storm Storm season is always crazy and never the same. You’ll want to make sure your roof is secure just in case. Peak is standing by and ready to help. We’ve got over 30 years of experience, are family-owned and have earned our reputation by being reliable, honest and professional. Come twisters or floods, or both, if you’re not ready, all hail could break loose.

Check out our blog “Impact Resistant Shingles?” on our website.

Stop by and enjoy a cigar and the extensive tobacco offerings. Pipe World prides itself on a thoughtfully curated gift selection. Come explore an array of unique items including art, jewelry, collegiate merchandise, games, ornaments, knives and more. Pipe World prides itself on being a fully stocked tobacconist

Call PEAK today for FREE inspection! (512) 415-6888

Read about our Family History

We build integrity into every roof.

Visit one of our 2 locations:

1100 McNeil Rd, Round Rock, TX 78681 (512) 388�4300

2900 W Anderson Ln, Austin, TX 78757 (512) 451�5347

CHECK MY GOOD STANDING AT HaagCertifiedInspector.com 2023

peakroofingconstruction.com

WWW.PIPEWORLD.COM • MONDAY�SATURDAY 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M., CLOSED SUNDAY

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Impacts

Hutto

Now open

1 6

1 Set in Stone Statuary After several years of creating customized statues, including many of the hippo statues seen around Hutto, Set in Stone Statuary opened in its own storefront. Owned by Greg Ray, the business specializes in hippo statues, as the hippopotamus is the community’s mascot, but will design and paint a variety of figures. All of its concrete statues are 3D printed, molded and

110

1660

130 TOLL

poured in Hutto. • Opened Feb. 10

Hutto

• 3333 CR 119, Ste. 134, Hutto • www.setinstonestatuary.com

2 Forty4 Design The design and marketing agency specializes in creating user-friendly websites for businesses of all sizes. Services include pay-per-click advertising, search engine optimization and email marketing. The company’s downtown Hutto location also serves as an

1660

STAR RANCH BLVD.

art gallery in the evenings. • Opened in early February • 107 East St., Hutto • www.forty4.design

137

138

MAP NOT TO SCALE

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY GRANT CRAWFORD

3 Arthur Direct Care The Round Rock-based practice, owned by Dr. Albert and Rachel Arthur, opened a second location in Hutto. The practice provides adult and pediatric medicine, urgent care, women’s health services, and immigration medical exams, among other services. • Opened March 1

slowly transitioning the branding to its new name. The company specializes in custom cakes and desserts. • Grand opening in late March • 202 Farley St., Hutto • www.spicechemistry.com

Now open

Relocations

• 201 E. Wilco Hwy., Ste. 100 • www.arthurdirectcare.com

6 All Around Barber School The barber school in Pflugerville relocated to Hutto in March. Owner John Aldaya said the school, which offers classes for aspiring barbers and hair stylists, outgrew its Pflugerville space. The school provides day and night classes in both English and Spanish. • Relocated March 4 • 3333 CR 119, Ste. 9, Hutto • www.instagram.com/allaroundbarberschool 7 CAD Supplies Specialty The company has specialized in wide-format printers, supplies and equipment for more than 20 years. CAD Supplies provides both equipment and services for large and small businesses, governments, schools, and individuals.

Coming soon

4 HT Fitness The 24-hour facility, expected to open in Hutto this year, will include a variety of cardio and weight-lifting equipment, while members can participate in free group fitness classes. The gym offers individual, couple and family membership plans. The business also has locations in Taylor, Bastrop and Cedar Creek. • Opening in 2024 • 101 Star Ranch Blvd., Hutto • www.htfit.com 5 Spice Chemistry Spice Chemistry is a new business going in at the former location of Cookies, Cupcakes and More in Hutto. Meg Chaudhary recently purchased the space and is

Happy Hippo Bakery Owned by Jackie Ruesink, the home bakery is new to the Pflugerville and Hutto area. The bakery specializes in cookies, pies, healthy baked snacks and treats for toddlers. Ruesink also plans to unveil a line of homemade vanilla extracts.

• Opened in January • No physical location • www.happyhippobakery.com

• Relocated in early December • 5951 Chandler Road, Hutto • www.cadsupplies.com

Update your Yard with a Custom Deck or Fence

15% project of over $1,000 or more SPRING SAVE OFF

Locally owned serving Round Rock & Greater Austin area www.deckncablerailing.com Get a FREE QUOTE 512-993-1786

Scan & scroll for our reviews

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Government

Williamson County hazardous waste cleanup event Williamson County will host a free household hazardous waste cleanup event March 16 at the Williamson County Expo Center in Taylor. What you need to know During the event, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., the following items will be accepted: • Acids and aluminum • Lighter fluid, pesticides • Antifreeze • Batteries • Brake and transmission fluid

City staff report benefits of development deals Economic development agreements have brought in millions of dollars for the city of Round Rock and doubled expected workforce projections, according to a presentation to Round Rock City Council on Jan. 23. By the numbers Since an initial agreement made with Dell Technologies in 1993, the city of Round Rock has seen a $550 million net tax benefit. Excluding the industry giant Dell, the city has still received $147 million in total property and sales taxes, provided $40 million in incentives, and retained a net ben- efit of $107 million, according to city documents. Susan Morgan, Round Rock’s chief financial officer, noted to council the considerable benefit that these agreements pose for the local econ- omy. Property taxes in Round Rock are relatively low compared to the rest of Central Texas, in part

City benefits to economic development agreements

$1.9 billion generated in property value

18,800 jobs created

$550 million in property and sales tax revenue

SOURCE: CITY OF ROUND ROCK/COMMUNITY IMPACT

due to the city’s economic strategy. Dell is the city’s largest sales tax generator. Sales tax is used to fund public services. The city has approved a total of 26 economic agreements to date, 11 of which occurred in the past three years, Morgan said. These agreements are intended to support long-term economic growth. According to staff, employment created by the deals accounts for 10% of Round Rock’s workforce, with the excep- tion of Dell employees.

• Cleaning products, paints • Lawn and garden chemicals

COMING SPRING 2024

ELEVATED LIVING FROM $399,900 GROUND BREAKING IN LATE SPRING DESIRABLE ROUND ROCK LOCATION 3400 E OLD SETTLERS BLVD. ROUND ROCK, TX 78665 www.townhomesatoldsettlers.com

Click for more info!

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY MCLEOD

Round Rock council to enter mediation over wholesale water rates The city of Round Rock is looking to resolve years-long litigation over water rates after City Council agreed Jan. 26 to mediation with area Municipal Utility Districts. The gist The mediation aims to facilitate an agreement between five MUDs and the city. The focus of the sit-down is to reach a consensus on the wholesale water and wastewater rates charged by the city for servicing the following neighborhoods:

City council sets top priorities for 2024 After three days of extensive discussions, Round Rock City Council members identified key priorities for the city. In a nutshell The annual Round Rock City Council retreat, held Jan. 29-31, brought together council members and department heads. Discussions revolved around preserving the city’s status as the “Sports Capital of Texas,” as well as plans to focus on water management and reuse. Other priorities for council in the next year, include: • Establishing another recreation center • Undertaking strategic land acquisition • Exploring affordable housing options • Promoting more retail development

Wholesale water rates

Neighborhood

Base charge Volume charge

Paloma Lake MUD No. 1 and 2

$5,353

$3.82

Teravista, Williamson County MUD No. 10 Teravista, Williamson County MUD No. 11

$16,029 $2.95

$14,307

$3.14

Vista Oaks MUD

$13,205

$3.07

SOURCE: CITY OF ROUND ROCK/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Some context The city updated their rates in 2017 after conducting a wholesale rate study. The initial conflict stemmed from local MUDs questioning rate increases from the city, filing an appeal of their wholesale rates to the Public Utility Commission of Texas in October 2018. If the mediation concludes with an agreement, the affected areas can anticipate a rate change by April 2025. If no settlement is reached, the case may extend into 2025.

• Paloma Lake MUD No. 1 • Paloma Lake MUD No. 2

• Teravista, Williamson County MUD No. 10 • Teravista, Williamson County MUD No. 11 • Vista Oaks MUD

BE THE FIRST TO TRY IT!

CALL (512) 244-2644 FOR FREE CONSULTATION

Private treatment suites

2002 Locally owned since

Hat Trick Jackhammer TM Vanilla Frozen Custard blended with OREO ® Cookies, Green Candy Crunch then filled with Marshmallow Crème

Scan code to hear from Dr. Gates!

DR. PAUL GATES

Board Certified with the American Board of Orthodontics

Your personalized, beautiful smile is my priority! We are the only orthodontic office offering private treatment suites for every appointment. We offer:

IN Orthodontics Specialist

BUY ONE GET ONE $ 2! BUY ONE TREAT AND GET THE SECOND TREAT OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE FOR $2! Valid at Austin area Andy’s ™ Valid at Austin area Andy’s only. Expires 4/15/24. Other restrictions apply. Excludes take home pints, half pints, quarts, gallons, Quart Combos, Pick 6, bottled drinks and gift cards. Not valid with any other offer, discount or reward. No cash value. Not valid if copied or altered.

• Digital scans and 3-D printing instead of gooey impressions • Medical Air Filtration • Interest free payment plans

• Most insurance accepted • State of the Art sterilization • Braces made in America

Eye Doc tor

503 E. Palm Valley Blvd, Building 2 Suite 200 Round Rock, TX 78664

WWW.ROUNDROCKORTHODONTICS.COM

ROUND ROCK EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY HANNAH NORTON

What to expect after a historic year at the Texas Capitol

$100,000. The legislation also reduces how much homeowners pay their local school districts in taxes and eliminates a tax for some small businesses. The state anticipates spending $5.3 billion to reimburse schools for revenue lost from the lower property taxes. “There was really no other issue ... coming out of the election and going into the session that Republican leadership was more committed to,” Henson said. “If there’s any surprise about that, it’s that they had so much diculty actually getting the bill across the nish line.” Looking ahead, Texas will soon have the power to arrest and deport migrants who enter the state illegally under Senate Bill 4. Despite several groups suing Texas over the new law’s constitutionality, it is currently scheduled go into eect March 5. What else? At the local level, House Bill 2127 prevents city and county ocials from adopting or enforcing ordinances that go beyond state or federal law. “The bill was the culmination of several sessions of eorts in the Legislature to assert authority over local governments,” Henson said. “The primary targets of this bill ... are the big urban centers in the state that are primarily overseen by Democratic elected ocials.” This is playing out in Austin and San Marcos, as the cities are being sued by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over voter-approved ordi- nances to end low-level marijuana oenses. House lawmakers repeatedly rejected another one of Republican Gov. Greg Abbott’s top

With a 140-day regular legislative session and four special sessions in 2023, Texas lawmakers spent more time in Austin than ever before. While lawmakers passed over 1,000 new laws, they struggled throughout the year to cut property taxes, increase state support for public school teachers, tighten border security and more. Community Impact spoke with Jim Henson, the director of the Texas Politics Project at The University of Texas at Austin, to break down some of the most consequential things Texas lawmakers did in 2023 and what Texans need to know for the year ahead. A closer look Eligible homeowners can expect an adjust- ment to their 2023 property tax bills after lawmakers approved an $18 billion property tax relief package, which raises the tax exemption on Texans’ primary homes from $40,000 to “Border security tops the list of things that Republican [voters] consistently identify as the most important problem facing the state. The politics of that are magnied by the fact that there’s a Democrat in the White House. ... It’s

Texas lawmakers spent 246 days at the Capitol in 2023—more than any prior calendar year. In that time, lawmakers passed 1,326 bills.

Regular sessions

Special sessions

246 days total

140

106

2023

140 87

2021

227 days total

140

2019

140 days total

140 29

2017

169 days total

140

140 days total

2015

207 days total

140

2013

SOURCE: TEXAS LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE LIBRARYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

priorities, education savings accounts, in 2023. The voucher-like program would give families public money to pay for private schools. Several public education proposals also died amid high tensions within the Texas GOP. “[The voucher debate] poisoned the whole discussion of public education at a time when there was the potential to provide more funding for these very wildly popular measures like increasing teacher pay and putting more money into school safety,” Henson said. What’s next? The governor has the power to call lawmakers back for a fth special session. The 89th regular legislative session is set to begin Jan. 14.

been a thorny and real policy problem given migration ows over the last couple of years.” JIM HENSON, DIRECTOR OF THE TEXAS POLITICS PROJECT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

LET US DO YOUR SPRING CLEANING!

Mon-Sat: 8 am-5 pm & Sun: closed (512) 254-4771

twomaidscleaning.com

TRY US FOR JUST $35 Trial Package Includes: Bath, Ear Cleaning, Nail Clip, Teeth Brushing

Deep Clean or Move In/Out Clean Our most thorough cleaning service. $ 50 OFF $ 10 OFF Your First Recurring Cleaning Mention this ad for any of these offers. Expires 3/31/24

BOOK NOW!

WEEKLY, BI-WEEKLY, & MONTHLY CLEANING OPTIONS AVAILABLE FREE fridge cleaning with any recurring service

www.scenthound.com/round-rock 110 N Interstate Hwy 35 #325

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Education

District anticipating cuts to budget

Round Rock ISD administrators expect budget cuts to be made while planning for the 2024-2025 school year Feb. 15. What you need to know The district is facing several funding challenges requiring changes to the budget. However, RRISD Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez said the district is planning to avoid letting any employees go. Rather, the district will use attrition—unfilled positions that are then eliminated—to curb personnel expenditures. The district is considering the following actions to reduce expenses for the 2024-25 school year: • Reduce central office positions

• Reduce central office school support positions • Reduce position allocations due to enrollment decline • Increase high school, middle school and elementary school class size formulas • Reduce school level support positions • Reduce summer school program • Reduce all work calendars by one day • Reduce departmental allocations • Eliminate cell phone stipends • Reduce travel • Eliminate food purchases • Adjust transportation delivery model

Several aspects of the current budget year have lead the district to plan for cuts in the upcoming 2024-2025 budget.

$17.16M The projected deficit for the 2023-2024 fiscal year

4,482 The net decrease in projected enrollment since the 2020-2021 school year

$77.8M Amount projected to be paid in recapture for the 2023-2024 fiscal year upon budget adoption

SOURCE: ROUND ROCK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

McNeil High School now IB campus

Round Rock ISD now has three International Baccalaureate high schools, as McNeil High School received the designation in December. What happened RRISD shared in January that the designation of McNeil High School was a year-and-a-half in the making. It joins Westwood and Stony Point High Schools in the IB program. McNeil was chosen because stu- dents zoned for it were attending other IB schools, according to staff.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

Encourages cross-disciplinary, internationally minded students with critical- thinking skills

Awards IB diploma

Allows students to claim a minimum of 24 hours of college credit at a public college or university

SOURCE: ROUND ROCK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

A recent performance report for Round Rock ISD shows teacher turnover rose sharply in the 2022-23 school year, exceed- ing the state average. What you need to know In a public hearing on the district’s Texas Academic Performance Report, district administrators shared that the turnover rate for teachers in the 2022-23 school year increased from 15.9% in the 2021-22 school year to 23.9%. This increase exceeds the statewide turnover rate for teachers of 21.4%. Eddie Curran, RRISD’s chief human resources officer, pointed to long commutes and cost of liv- ing as a primary reason teachers were leaving the district. RRISD turnover rate higher than state average

Measures taken to retain and hire staff include:

Secured voter approval in fall 2023 to raise the tax rate to increase pay for employees Initiated affordable housing program for teachers through nonprofit partnership.

Launched program for international educators

Partnered with colleges for student teacher pipeline

SOURCE: ROUND ROCK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What it means Curran referred to increased resignations over the past two school years, with over 800 in the 2021-22 school year, followed by 643 in the 2022-23 school year. Curran said he anticipates the next performance report will reflect increased efforts to hire and retain staff.

Unmatched Academic Results Come tour a campus and see for yourself!

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

New science course coming soon

accelerated science path of study that will allow students to take physics as early as eighth grade. The course, “Accelerated Science 1” will be offered to sixth graders this fall, with Physics available to eighth graders fall 2026. This course will count as a high school credit.

Middle school students in Round Rock ISD will have an opportunity to take an advanced science class in the coming 2024-25 school year. What you need to know In January, RRISD Superin- tendent Hafedh Azaiez shared that the district will launch an

“By starting earlier, students may gain a solid foundation in scientific principles, fostering a deeper understanding as they progress through their coursework.” HAFEDH AZAIEZ, SUPERINTENDENT

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Focal One ® Robotic Focal HIFU Now Offered at St. David’s Surgical Hospital A Non-Invasive, Non-Surgical Option for Prostate Cancer

St. David’s Surgical Hospital is the only hospital offering Focal One Robotic Focal HIFU in the Greater Austin area. It is a non-invasive, non-surgical option offered to certain prostate cancer patients who are in the low to intermediate risk category. This technology ablates prostate tissue by focusing high-intensity ultrasound

Focal One Robotic HIFU is FDA Cleared and is covered for many patients by Medicare or commercial insurance providers.

Treatments using Focal One Robotic Focal HIFU at St. David’s Surgical Hospital are performed by:

(HIFU) waves on the affected area, causing localized heating that destroys the cells in the gland without damaging the healthy surrounding tissue. Focused ultrasound works in the same way as rays of sunlight that pass through a magnifying glass and are concentrated at a single point, equally causing a significant temperature to rise around the focal point. HIFU is the ideal treatment tool to ablate just the diseased part of the prostate. It is a non-invasive procedure with no incision, no blade, no scar, and no radiation. The real-time imaging allows for precise local ablation in one session under general anesthesia, repeatable, if necessary, with a low risk of side effects. HIFU gives men a treatment option with a low risk of urinary and sexual dysfunction when contending with a slow-growing and non-lethal cancer. The patients’ quality of life is preserved with minimal time away from work and leisure activities. This is a true outpatient procedure; the patient will be discharged and allowed to return home shortly after the procedure. Typical follow-up will include PSA testing at three months, six months, and one year, as well as an MRI image and potentially follow-up biopsies at one year to evaluate the result. This follow-up can be performed by the treating urologist.

Carl Bischoff, MD Eric Giesler, MD Elizabeth Mobley, MD

Scan to learn more information about Focal One Robotic Focal HIFU and treatment options.

Urology Austin Phone: (512) 231-1444

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY ELLE BENT, KATY MCAFEE & HALEY MCLEOD

Section of Kenney Fort Boulevard expansion to be complete soon Construction on the Kenney Fort Boulevard extension, from Forest Creek Drive to SH 45, is expected to wrap up by May, according to Round Rock city sta. Current situation The city’s master transportation plan has included this project since 1999. Kenney Fort Boulevard, once completed, will ll a gap in Round Rock’s transportation network and oer a new route for the fast-growing eastern side of the city, according to city documents. The nalized project will feature a six-lane arterial road equipped with shared-use paths, which connects neighborhoods along the route to both the existing Brushy Creek Trail System and Old Settlers Park.

Austin airport closes security checkpoint A security checkpoint at the far west end of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport closed Feb. 5 for at least the next two years. The closure of Checkpoint 3 is part of the airport’s West Inll project, which will add thousands of square feet to accommodate more travelers and a new baggage handling system. The project is expected to be com- pleted in 2026. What you need to know Travelers can visit the following check- points for Transportation Security Admin- istration screening while Checkpoint 3 is closed: General TSA screening: Checkpoint 1, Checkpoint 2 West Precheck: Checkpoints 1 and 2 East Clear: Checkpoint 1

The Kenney Fort Boulevard extension from Forest Creek Drive south to SH 45 is expected to be complete by May, according to Round Rock city sta.

COURTESY CITY OF ROUND ROCK

YOUR GO-TO SPOT FOR PERSONALIZED, BUSINESS OR SCHOOL APPAREL!

• Direct-To-Garment Printing (DTG) • Screen Printing • Embroidery • Vinyl • Ultra Print • Digital Heat Transfer (DTF) BRING YOUR IDEAS TO LIFE WITH PLENTY OF DECORATING OPTIONS AND EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE! Discover Limitless Choices - From Affordable Picks to Top-Tier Brands, Thousands of styles, Colors and Garments Await Your Pick!

Now Open in Round Rock! 206 W. Main Street | Suite 112 | Round Rock, Texas | 78664 (512) 213-4770 | BIGFROG.COM/ROUNDROCK Get $10 Off Any Order of $50 or More Through 4/15/24

ROUND ROCK EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY HALEY MCLEOD

Road work stalls at Red Bud Lane intersection After experiencing delays for nearly two years, Round Rock City Council approved a request to terminate the city’s contract with Capital Excavation Company for a Gattis School Road widening project. The overview The original $17.5 million contract, approved in August 2022, included a six-month delay to allow for providers to complete utility relocations for the project, according to city documents. Utility companies have failed to meet the spec- ified timeline, Director of Transportation Garry Hudder said, leaving the project suspended since October 2022. The planned roadwork consisted of widening the existing four-lane roadway to a major arterial six-lane thoroughfare with a raised median.

City nears finish line on Heritage Trail West New signage on the recently constructed pedestrian bridge over Chisholm Trail Road marks the near completion of Heritage Trail West. The trail, anticipated to open by July, is part of the city’s efforts to enhance connectivity, linking the west side of Round Rock to the downtown area. The details Heritage Trail West will include both historical and recreational elements. The city commissioned artist Antonio Munoz to create 10 bronze statues to comple- ment information plaques planned along the walking path. The project includes improvements to Bathing Beach Park, Chisholm Trail Crossing Park and Memorial Park.

O L

HIGH COUNTRY BLVD.

Put in perspective Part of the delay comes from having to coor- dinate multiple utility companies responsible for relocating infrastructure, such as Oncor—the power company—and various telecommunications companies, Oncor spokesperson Armando Perez told Community Impact . Inclement weather conditions over the last cou- ple of years have also impacted Oncor’s capacity for nonessential work. Looking ahead The utility relocations are now actively under- way. The city will likely rebid the project in May, Hudder said.

Hear better, live better

24/7 ON-DEMAND VIRTUAL URGENT CARE It’s like having a doctor on speed-dial

Adult medicine & pediatric doctors

No appointment needed

Services Include: • Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations • Hearing Aid Fittings and Consultations • Free Hearing aid services for the life of device when purchased from our office

$0 copay

Call for a hearing test 512-380-4096 7200 Wyoming Springs Dr, Suite 1200, Round Rock 78681 www.austinentassociates.com

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Real estate

While home prices fluctuated across the Round Rock market in January, homes sales more than doubled compared to January 2023, according to data by the Austin Board of Realtors. Residential market data

Number of homes sold

January 2023

January 2024

+78.8%%

+16%

+7.1%

78681

78717

78664

78665

130 TOLL

78665

Median home sales price in January

78681

183 TOLL

78664

2023

2024

620

45 TOLL

78717

$432,500

$340,000

78664

MOPAC

$470,000

$442,784

78665

$483,000

$549,990

78681

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

$640,000

$635,000

78717

Market

Average days on the market

January 2023

January 2024

+29.8%

+45%

+6.3%

-12.7%

January

2023

2024

158

New listings

60 130

Closed sales

78664

78665

78681

78717

Homes sold by price point in January

Homes under contract

154

78664

78665

78681

78717

- - -

3 2

$900,000+

Months of inventory

2.1

6 6 2

$700,000-$899,999

14 10

$500,000-$699,999

$300,000-$499,999

Active listings

229 361

<$299,999

SINGLE FAMILY HOMES FOR LEASE In Round Rock UP TO 6 WEEKS FREE!*

Apply Now

512-768-2155

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

The Settlement, 78665 and 78664 Located near Old Settlers Boulevard and Sunrise Road on the east side of Round Rock, The Settlement features a variety of one- and two-story homes. Situated next to Meadow Lake Park, the neighborhood’s green space includes a walking path along the water for residents to use. The Settlement is 3 miles from Old Settlers Park. Additionally, residences are positioned between two H-E-Bs and additional shopping. Other details of the neighborhood include: • Average square footage: 2,287 • Homes on market as of Feb. 7: 6 • School district: Round Rock ISD • Amenities: Meadow Lake Park, paved trail, playground

SETTLEMENT DR.

NEIGHBORHOOD DATA PROVIDED BY MICHELE SHERWOOD PERCH REALTY 512-587-4334 • WWW.PERCHAGENTS.COM

Transform Your Health with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and PhotoBioModulation

COMMUNITY IMPACT SPECIAL

New Patient Offer Weight Loss Program - 1st Month Semaglutide: $250 or Tirzepatide: $300 Includes B12 or B6 to boost energy Current Patients Buy 4 injections, get 1 FREE *Same dosage

MEDICALLY SUPERVISED WEIGHT LOSS Care at the most affordable prices

600 Round Rock West Dr., Ste. 703 • Round Rock, TX 78681 • www.b2weightloss.com REFER A FRIEND AND SAVE MORE! 512-919-4481

“It made us happy to see her enjoy life again while at The Cottages.” ~ Mary, Ida Lou’s daughter Visit www.alzcottages.com/stories to read more.

Facility No’s 030118, 030119 & 104692 Memory Care AT CHANDLER CREEK

ATX HYPERBARICS .COM | westlake@atxhyperbarics.com |

ATXHyperbarics

2351 North AW Grimes Blvd. . Round Rock, Texas 78665 . 512.218.9757

ROUND ROCK EDITION

Development

BY GRANT CRAWFORD & HALEY MCLEOD

Palm House returns to original location The historic Andrew J. Palm House was relo- cated in the middle of the night Jan. 31 as plans for the downtown area move forward, including a connecting walkway between the Round Rock Public Library and Grith building. The details Round Rock’s Historic Preservation Commis- sion approved an application Dec. 12 to relocate the Palm House from 212 E. Main St. to the Old Settlers Association property near Dell Diamond at 3300 E. Palm Valley Blvd. The Main Street site of the Palm House will become a walkway that will connect Prete Plaza and the courtyard of the Round Rock Public Library, according to a city announcement. The project correlates with renovations to the Grith Building—the former library location—which will eventually house a visitor center, the Round Rock

Plans for new downtown park in the works Aligning with City Council’s commitment to foster a family-friendly atmosphere in downtown Round Rock, residents can anticipate the addition of a new downtown city park. What’s happening? Round Rock City Council’s approval of a $1.8 million contract with Design Workshop on Feb. 8 advances plans for a public park along Brushy Creek. The park, which will be named The Lawn at Brushy Creek, will include renovations for the existing property surrounding the downtown water tower. Funding for the downtown park proj- ect comes from the $230 million bond approved by voters in 2023. “I think you’ll see spaces that we’ll be able to gather here in the downtown area—social spaces for our residents. It’s to really take advantage of

Rental community to come open in March The developer for YardHomes Meadow Lake, a 247 rental-home community in Round Rock, is looking to nish out the subdivision by the last week of March. Overview A project by Urban Moment, the commu- nity at 3350 College Park Drive will provide one-, two- and three-bedroom homes. Homes will come with a fenced-in back- yard and be equipped with Ring doorbells, smart thermostats, keyless entry and ber internet service. Amenities in the neighborhood include: • Outdoor event lawn • Fitness center

SETTLEMENT PARK

DAVID CURRY DR.

VETERANS PARK

Settlement Park to get new playground Round Rock City Council approved a con- tract Feb. 8 with Whirlix Design Inc. for new playground equipment at Settlement Park. What’s happening? Construction, to begin in May, will cost $180,000 and come from the city’s Commu- nity Development Block Grant Program. The new playscape will feature two play structures, one large circular swing, slides and swivel chairs.

The historic Palm House was relocated from downtown Round Rock to property near Dell Diamond.

COURTESY CITY OF ROUND ROCK

the beautiful creek corridor,” Director of Parks and Recreation Rick Atkins said. The project includes a pedestrian bridge connection from Heritage Trail West to Veterans Park, which connects the west side of Round Rock to the downtown area. Other items proposed for the park include: • A canoe launch • A boardwalk • Extended sidewalk for possible craft fairs • 6 acres of green space

Chamber oces, and an art and culture gallery. The backstory The original two-room house was built in 1873 on Palm Farm, which is now the Old Settlers Association property. The Palm family donated the home to the Round Rock Chamber and the house was relocated downtown in 1976, serving as a Palm Museum and space for chamber operations.

• On-site dog park • Resort-style pool

ROUND ROCK 201 University Oaks Blvd (512) 341-9066 CEDAR PARK 13530 Ronald Reagan Blvd (512) 986-7681

GEORGETOWN 1013 W University Ave (512) 868-6696

PFLUGERVILLE 19000 Limestone Commercial Dr (512) 953-4070

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26-27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52

communityimpact.com