Lake Travis - Westlake Edition | September 2023

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

Lake Travis Westlake Edition VOLUME 14, ISSUE 8 SEPT. 20OCT. 23, 2023

2023 Voter Guide

Boat docks at Hurst Creek Cove sit on dry land as Lake Travis hit 37.8% ll capacity Sept. 8.

APRIL KELLEYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Local water districts urge conservation as drought continues

District, however, took a more aggressive conserva- tion approach by entering Stage 3 water restrictions Aug. 15, allowing outdoor irrigation only one day per week.

Most of the Lake Travis area remains under Stage 2 restrictions, including the Travis County Water Control and Improvement District No. 17, which allows for outdoor irrigation a maximum of two days per week. The Lakeway Municipal Utility

BY APRIL KELLEY

When the Lower Colorado River Authority entered Stage 2 of its drought contingency plan on Aug. 12, local utility districts followed suit by enforcing their own water restrictions.

CONTINUED ON 28

Also in this issue

Impacts: Hudson’s on the Bend has new owners (Page 6)

Government: West Lake Hills passes re ordinances (Page 9)

Education: EISD, LTISD receive STAAR results (Pages 1819)

Dining: Saron South fuses Nepalese and Indian food (Page 34)

We’re ready for this moment right here.

During one of life’s biggest moments, we’re here to keep you and your family safe, joyful and in the moment. From ultrasound to delivery, our experienced care team will be with you every moment of the way.

BSWHealth.com/YourMomentLakeway 512.654.5200

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. ©2020 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-ATX-174778-ARRL&DAdsSeptember2020 AM

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS

211 BELLA RIVA DRIVE $5,999,000

17100 FLAGLER DRIVE $2,349,900

575 VENDEMMIA BEND $4,990,000

GROSSMAN & JONES GROUP | 512.470.3173 | LUXEHOMESAUSTIN.COM | LUXURY LEAGUE

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

DESIGN CENTER NOW OPEN

The Enclave at Yaupon community will have 16 luxury homes in the heart of Lakeway with five different floor plans to choose from.

FIVE MODEL HOMES ON DISPLAY (PHOTOS FROM PLAN D ABOVE) Call for an Appointment Today!

Lynn Morgan, Broker-owner Lmorgan@lakewayluxuryproperty.com | 512-413-0261 www.enclaveatyaupon.com

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.

Readers, your newspaper has a

this month.

Market leaders & metro team

What is CI Simple? • Our Design & Editorial leaders have planned a complete overhaul of our content, and we've named the transformation CI Simple. • Each page has been re-envisioned to ensure information is presented in a concise and easily digestible format. Why? • In an age of ever-shortening attention spans and new information accessible at the swipe of a thumb, CI Simple addresses the demands of modern readers. • There’s nothing quite like reading local news straight from your mailbox, and with this change we’re making every word and image count even more. Exciting changes • Revamped front covers with eye-catching imagery alongside a story that truly matters, plus new features like CI Foodie and CI Texas

Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Zara Flores Kameryn Griesser Sierra Martin Katy McAfee 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

Lauren Itz General Manager litz@ communityimpact.com

Joseph Veloz Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Kasey Salisbury Account Executive Jacqueline Harris Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Art Production Manager Rachal Elliott

April Kelley Editor akelley@ communityimpact.com

• More subheads (called Impactisms) and bullet points to easily consume news • Strategic use of design layouts, labels, colors and more to guide your experience

Travis Baker Publisher tbaker@ communityimpact.com

What else? Join CI Patron to receive exclusive Saturday news and swag.

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 ltwnews@communityimpact.com Advertising ltwads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

communityimpact.com

@communityimpactnews

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

With on-site x-rays, skilled providers, and orthopedic physicians on call, we can quickly determine if you have fracture, sprain or strain.

WHETHER YOU’RE ACHEY OR BREAKY.

Scan for the nearest location. Open 9am – 9pm, 7 days a week nextlevelurgentcare.com

LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION

Impacts

620

LAKE TRAVIS

Now open

2222

STEINER RANCH BLVD.

620

Lakeway

EMMA LONG PARK

360

LADERA BLVD.

COMMONS FORD RANCH

in the skin. The laser is advertised as an alternative to popular medication-based acne treatments, such as Accutane, spironolactone and antibiotics. • Opened in June • 3811 Bee Caves Road, Ste 108, Austin • www.clearacne.com Frinz Care The telehealth counseling and life coaching practice began serving teens, college students and families in Lake Travis-Westlake this summer. Services range from one-on-one mental health counseling to group sessions for students and parents facing similar experiences. The business offers free consultations to explore service options. 4 Whataburger A first-of-its-kind, digital-only Whataburger opened in Austin on Sept. 5. The new concept, called Whataburger Digital Kitchen, does not have a traditional seating area, curbside pickup or drive-thru. Instead, customers can order online through the Whataburger app or at an on-site self- service kiosk before retrieving their order from the exterior food pickup lockers. • Opened Sept. 5 • 3201 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 180, Austin • www.whataburger.com

N. CUERNAVACA DR.

West Lake Hills

HAMILTON POOL RD.

HILL COUNTRY BLVD.

Bee Cave

BARTON CREEK HABITAT PRESERVE

MAP NOT TO SCALE

MOPAC

WALSH TARLTON LN.

Westlake. The new location offers brunch, lunch and dinner for dine-in or pickup from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. The menu includes locally sourced meat entrees; housemade cold-pressed juices; and an assortment of snacks, cocktails and vegan options. All menu items are free of gluten, seed oil, soy, genetically modified organisms and refined sugar. • Opened Sept. 1 • 6317 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 200, Austin • www.eatwellatx.com 3 Clear Acne Treatment Center The acne treatment center opened its first Westlake location, offering the only Food and Drug Administration- approved laser acne treatment, AviClear. AviClear treats mild to severe acne by targeting oil-producing glands

Now open

1 Nadine B Shoes The Hill Country Galleria welcomed its newest shop. The business is an Austin-based boutique selling high-quality shoes following luxury trends. This is the first brick-and-mortar location for the business, which opened online in 2020. • Opened Aug. 1 • 12820 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. E-110, Austin • www.nadinebshoes.com

2 The Well The healthy eatery opened its third location in

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 DUSTIN BUTLER & KAMERYN GRIESSER

Coming soon

In the news

5 Koncept Garage The Austin-based garage clean-out and renovation service announced its headquarters in Rollingwood Plaza will open soon. Company staff also plans to have a retail section and to host private events and training workshops. Koncept Garage offers garage clean-outs, upgrades and conversions as well as whole-home professional organizing services. • Opening Oct. 1 • 2712 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 102, Austin • www.konceptgarage.com

7 Hudson’s on the Bend Central Texas’ iconic restaurant came under the new ownership of chef Joseph Farner and his wife, Carlin Farner, in July. The restaurant was established in 1984 by acclaimed chef Jeff Blank, whose signature Southwestern dishes included unusual meats, such as

wild game and rattlesnake. The Farners plan to bring back Blank’s signature grill-fired meals using the decades-old smoker and eventually introduce nightly live music events. • 3509 RM 620 N., Austin • www.hudsons-on-the-bend.com

• Opened in July • www.frinzcare.com

In the news

Closings

Hat Creek Burger Co. The popular burger chain with locations throughout Texas is celebrating the restaurant’s 15-year anniversary in September. The restaurant, which started as a food truck in Austin, serves burgers, chicken nuggets, salads and milkshakes and is known for its family-friendly environment. The company is celebrating the benchmark with free birthday cake shakes with a customer purchase and a chance to win free food for a year, according to a news release. • 1602 RM 620 S., Lakeway • 5902 Bee Caves Road, West Lake Hills • www.hatcreekburgers.com

8 Shuck Me The seafood restaurant closed its Westlake location Sept. 10 after less than two years of being open. The reason for the closure has not been announced, but the restaurant may consider relocating within the Austin area, management said. Shuck Me has three other locations in Denton; Southlake; and Hochatown, Oklahoma. • 10817 RM 2222, Austin • www.shuckme.net

Coming soon

6 UTea Kitchen UTea Pho, a Vietnamese restaurant in West Campus near The University of Texas, is coming to Lakeway with a new name. The menu will mostly remain the same as the West Campus location, offering pho soups, vermicelli bowls, stir fries and spring rolls with some additional new dishes.

• Opening in October • 2422 RM 620, Austin • www.uteapho.com/utea-kitchen

Our Services

For over 35 years, we've strived to ensure every patient is cared for like family. We offer an array of services across our 6 locations, making health care accessible and available.

• Preventive Health Care • Weight Loss Programs • Same Day Availability • Online Self Booking

• Virtual Visits • Acute Care

Your Family. Our Team. Good Health.

pfpdocs.com @pfpdocs

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

LIVE THE ROUGH LIFE 30+ Move-In Ready Homes • From The $800s - $2M+

STACI WIMBUSH

KRISTIN DELONEY

REALTOR ®

512.771.5319

512.576.3649

Development managed by Legend Communities. Exclusive sales and marketing by Rough Hollow Realty. Obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property. Welcome Center Open Daily | RoughHollowLakeway.com | RoughHollowRealty.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY KATY MCAFEE & BEN THOMPSON

School anxiety affecting the whole family? We can help. We work with children, adolescents and adults in individual and group settings using evidence-based treatment approaches that are supported by decades of research. Anxiety • School Fears • Social Anxiety • OCD Phobias • Panic Disorder • ADHD • and more New re ordinances implemented Construction crews in West Lake Hills are now required to have a re extinguisher and are prohibited from smoking on-site following an ordinance approved by West Lake Hills City Council on Aug. 23. Ocials are also encouraging residents to maintain brush on their property as leftover dead vegetation from Winter Storm Mara has increased wildre risk, West Lake Hills Mayor Linda Anthony said. Anthony said this comes as record-high temperatures and dry conditions have made the region more susceptible to wildres. Looking ahead Construction crews only need to have re extinguishers on-site during a burn ban; however, City Council is looking into making this a permanent requirement.

Kristal Muñoz appointed permanent police chief Rollingwood City Council members named Kristal Muñoz the city’s permanent police chief Aug. 16, following years of service on the force. The overview Rollingwood ocials unanimously voted in favor of Muñoz’s appointment after an execu- tive session discussion Aug. 16. She takes over as permanent head of the Rollingwood Police Department after spending a year in the role on an interim basis. “Having served our community for over 17 years and as Interim Police Chief for the past year, her unwavering loyalty and commitment to Rollingwood are unmatched,” Mayor Gavin Massingill said in a statement. “With an intimate knowledge of our community, she brings a unique perspective to the role, ensuring that our law enforcement eorts remain tailored to our specic

Kristal Muñoz was appointed Rollingwood’s permanent police chief Aug. 16.

COURTESY CITY OF ROLLINGWOOD

small-town needs. Her promotion is a testament to her leadership skills and exceptional dedication. I have no doubt that under her guidance, our police department will continue to foster safety, trust and harmony within our community.” According to the city, Muñoz joined the RPD in the early 2000s following several years as a civilian employee with the Round Rock Police Depart- ment. She worked her way up the department’s ranks to a leadership position over the years and has specic training related to mental health.

After-school and weekend appointments available 512.957.0177 www.centraltexasanxiety.com Lake Travis and North Austin locations

DO YOU SUFFER FROM ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS

Mental Fatigue Can’t Focus No Energy Mood Swings No Libido

Weight Gain Muscle Loss Joint Pain Anxiety/Depression

Restore Health • Find Balance • Renew Vitality We specialize in helping you live a happier & healthier life with hormone optimization and regenerative medicine.

THRIVE HORMONAL HEALTH & WELLNESS

1017 Ranch Rd 620 S #220, Lakeway, TX 78734 737.242.6722

www.thrivehormonalhealth.com

LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION

ASK ABOUT MOVE-IN READY HOMES & INCENTIVES

MODEL OPEN DAILY • TUSCANVILLAGE.COM • MID-$600s-$1.9M+ Development and marketing by Legend Communities. Exclusive sales provided by Legacy International Resort Properties. Obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits of value, if any, of this property. Lock & Live Living • Part of the Horseshoe Bay Resort Community

Best Labor Day Sale Ever! FREE DELIVERY, SETUP & REMOVAL With $699+ purchase. $149.99 Value. Not valid with any other offer.

ASHLEY SLEEP

` 10-inch profile ` Hypoallergenic memory foam ` Breathable moisture wicking fabric ` Superior support and alignment QUEEN FACTORY SPECIAL $ 499 YOUR CHOICE OF FIRMNESS WHILE SUPPLIES LAST! Others $1,049

Buy a bed with us and be a part of giving back. A portion of every sale will be donated to Austin Pets Alive! HELP US MAKE A PAWSITIVE IMPACT!

QUEEN BUNDLE Others $1,116 $ 589 Memory Foam Mattress + Power Base

0% FINANCING FOR UP TO 5 YEARS

FactoryMattressTexas.com

` Hypoallergenic ` Lumbar Support

Scan for locations throughout Austin & San Antonio u

SAVE UP TO $700 on select Tempur-Pedic adjustable mattress sets

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY APRIL KELLEY

Voter Guide

2023

For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

and rights-of-way therefor, road drainage, bike lanes, sidewalks, and shared use paths, and replacement and improvement of road bridges and culverts, and the levying of the tax in payment thereof. Travis County, Proposition B The issuance of $276,440,000 of bonds for the purposes of constructing and improving county parks and the acquisition of land and interests in land in connection therewith, including the acquisition of open space park land, and the acquisition of conservation easements for authorized purposes in connection with or for the benefit of county parks, and the levying of the tax in payment thereof.

Dates to know

Sample ballot

Oct. 23: First day of early voting Oct. 27: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Nov. 3: Last day of early voting Nov. 7: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or Nov. 8 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Lake Travis ISD bond* The Lake Travis ISD board of trustees is calling for a $143 million bond election to fund the expansion and upgrade of athletic facilities for the existing middle and high school campuses as well as the district’s second high school.

Total bond package: $143.09 million (See Pages 12-13 for more details.)

Where to vote

Travis County, Proposition A The issuance of $233,060,000 of road bonds for the purpose of the construction, maintenance, and operation of macadamized, graveled, or paved roads and turnpikes, or in aid thereof, including acquiring land

Polling locations vary between early voting and Election Day. Early voting times vary, but Election Day voting hours are from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. statewide.

*OFFICIAL BALLOT LANGUAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE AS OF PRESS TIME. SOURCES: LAKE TRAVIS ISD, TRAVIS COUNTY & TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

Do any of these symptoms sound familiar?

» Brain fog » Fatigue » Depression » Lack of energy » irritability » Anxiety

» Joint pain » Decreased libido » Hot flashes/ night sweats » Stubborn belly fat

Biovitalitywellness.com 512.535.1088 located at Hill Country Galleria

If you experience one or more of the symptoms above, you may have a hormone imbalance. Age healthy with energy and vitality!

Content provided by Lake Travis ISD

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

Election

The Lake Travis ISD board of trustees voted in June to call a $143 million bond election to fund athletic facilities for the district’s second high school while expanding and upgrading facilities at existing middle and high school campuses. The school is scheduled to open for the 2027- 28 school year with ninth and tenth grades, Superintendent Paul Norton said. “We have significant growth coming in the future, and as a school district, it’s our responsibility to be prepared and ready for that,” Norton said. The election comes a year after the district’s $703 million bond election in which a $93 million proposition for stadium facilities failed. Voters approved funds for the second high school, but the failed proposition left it without funding for athletic facilities beyond a gymnasium. LTISD bond targets athletic facilities

Lake Travis ISD $143M athletics bond

November 2023 athletic bond

High School No. 2 highlights

$1.2M for Lake Travis Middle School

$1.2M for Bee Cave Middle School

Football/soccer stadium Track/auxiliary stadium Multiuse activity center

$23.3M

$2.3M for Hudson Bend Middle School

$20.4M

$15.9M

$143M

$13.9M

Baseball field

$35.6M for Lake Travis High School

$11.9M

Softball field

Eight tennis courts

$7.3M

$102.7M for High School No. 2

*THE REMAINING $10 MILLION INCLUDES LOCKER ROOMS, PRACTICE FIELDS AND OTHER ADDITIONS AND UPGRADES.

SOURCE: LAKE TRAVIS ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

RECOVER FASTER , FEEL STRONGER, LOOK YOUNGER , & LIVE LONGER

To learn more & book your complimentary consultation, CALL (512) 953-9421 or visit ATXHyperbarics.com

O ₂ AUSTIN

Round Rock 1545 Round Rock Ave. Round Rock, TX 78681

Westlake 5656 Bee Caves Rd. Austin, TX 78746

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Why it matters

Moving forward

Hank Carter, LTISD athletics director and head football coach for Lake Travis High School, said he believes it will be crucial for High School No. 2 to have its own facilities as the district isn’t prepared to operate without them. “I don’t know that there’s a great plan to open a second high school without any athletic facilities,” Carter said. “That would be a major detriment to the kids that are zoned to go to High School No. 2.” As a bond would be the only way the district could fund these facilities, Norton said other campuses would have to share practice and game spaces with the new school if the bond fails. Sharing facilities would present LTISD with chal- lenges as those spaces are at capacity, and it would take at least 20 minutes to transport students from High School No. 2 to Lake Travis High School, said Marco Alvarado, LTISD executive director of communications and community relations. A lack of athletic facilities would also impact other student organizations, such as the district’s

The district will hold meetings to educate community members about the bond this fall, Alvarado said.

Town hall meetings • Oct. 5 at 6 p.m. at Lake Travis High School, Performing Arts Center, 3324 RM 620, Austin • Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. at Lake Travis Middle School Cafeteria, 4932 Bee Creek Road, Spicewood • Oct. 23 at noon , Lunch and learn webinar on Zoom

Lake Travis High School’s Cavalier Stadium would get $16.2 million for renovations if voters approve the bond.

band, color guard, cheerleaders and dance team, as well as community organizations, such as the Lake Travis Youth Association, Carter said. Scott Cronk, Lake Travis Youth Association executive director, said the youth sports organization has registered around 11,000 players over the last year, many of whom use LTISD facilities. “It would be a signicant negative impact to our local youth sports programming to lose the LTISD eld space we currently utilize,” Cronk said.

Voting • Oct. 23-Nov. 3: Early voting • Nov. 7: Election Day

Hey parents, worry less about your undergrad this year! 24/7 Virtual Urgent Care | Doctors treat allergies, cold, flu & COVID-19 symptoms, rashes, headaches, pink eye, nausea, UTIs, minor injuries, STIs, strep throat and much more.

NormanMD.com

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

FOR LEASE VISTA RIDGE AT STEINER RANCH THE LEGACY REALTY

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

CO- WORKING OFFICE SUITES NOW AVAILABLE 6 Private offices $1,000-$1,495/month

LUCY YANG, BROKER-OWNER | THE LEGACY REALTY 512-827-8869 | lucy@thelegacyrealty.com | thelegacyrealty.com

Amenity Center

ASK ABOUT MOVE-IN READY HOMES & INCENTIVES

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY HANNAH NORTON

Breaking down the 14 state propositions on the Nov. ballot

Texas voters will find 14 propositions to amend the state constitution on the Nov. 7 ballot. Community Impact spoke with Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston, to break down each proposition. Constitutional amendment elections give Texans “a window into the policy process” and a “chance to participate” in state affairs, Rottinghaus said.

Proposition 10

Proposition 5

SJR 87 What it’s asking: Proposition 10 would prevent medical and biomedical manufacturers from paying taxes on their tangible personal property, which the majority of businesses are currently taxed on. Officials said this exemption would strengthen Texas’ medical industry.

HJR 3 What it’s asking: The state’s National Research University Fund would be replaced with the Texas University Fund. Four universities—Texas Tech University, the University of Houston, the University of North Texas and Texas State University—would qualify for the research endowment. Roughly $273 million would be set aside for 2024-25.

SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

Proposition 1

House Joint Resolution 126 What it’s asking: This proposition aims to increase landowners’ rights to regulate what happens on their property and limit state or federal interference.

Proposition 11

Proposition 6

SJR 32 What it’s asking: This proposition would create the El Paso County Conservation and Reclamation District. Various counties and regions in Texas have similar districts, which tax local residents to support the creation and development of water services and other facilities.

SJR 75 What it’s asking: Voters can decide whether to establish the Texas Water Fund, which would support new and existing water projects across the state. The Texas Water Development Board would oversee the new fund.

Proposition 2

Senate Joint Resolution 64 What it’s asking: City and county governments would be allowed to offer a property tax exemption to child care facilities. Rottinghaus said this would reduce property tax burdens on child care organizations, which many families rely on.

Proposition 7

Proposition 12

SJR 93 What it’s asking: This proposition would establish the Texas Energy Fund, which would finance the construction, maintenance and operation of electric facilities to ensure the state power grid remains reliable. The Public Utility Commission of Texas would oversee the new fund.

HJR 134 What it’s asking: This proposition would eliminate the Galveston County Treasurer’s Office. If approved, other county officials would take over the duties of the treasurer. All Texas voters can vote on the proposition, but it only takes effect if a majority of Galveston County voters authorize it.

Proposition 3

HJR 132 What it’s asking: This proposition asks voters to prevent a wealth tax, which is based on a person or entity’s assets, from being imposed in the future. Texas does not currently have any form of wealth taxes.

Proposition 8

Proposition 13

HJR 125 What it’s asking: Proposition 8 asks voters to authorize the creation of the Texas Broadband Infrastructure Fund, which would help expand high-speed internet access statewide. The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts would oversee the new fund.

HJR 107 What it’s asking: Voters can decide whether to raise the mandatory retirement period from 70-75 years old to 75-79 years old for justices and judges on appellate, district and criminal district courts.

Proposition 4

HJR 2, from the second special session What it’s asking: Voters can decide to authorize a $100,000 property tax exemption for Texans’ primary homes; establish a temporary 20% limit on annual value increases for nonhomestead properties worth $5 million or less; require members of appraisal boards in counties of over 75,000 people to serve staggered four-year terms; and prevent funds allocated for property tax relief from going against the state’s constitutional spending limit.

Proposition 9

Proposition 14

HJR 2, from the regular session What it’s asking: Voters can approve a cost-of- living adjustment for many former teachers. To combat inflation, teachers who retired before 2001 would get a 6% adjustment; those who retired between 2001-13 would get a 4% adjustment; and those who retired between 2013-20 would get a 2% adjustment.

SJR 74 What it’s asking: This proposition would create the Texas Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, which would support the creation and improvement of state parks. The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department would oversee the new fund.

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

WE ARE BUILDING AUSTIN Learn more about what’s happening in your community!

QR Code

Facebook.com/ATXCapitalDelivery

AustinTexas.gov/CapitalDelivery

A LIFE WELL LIVED. A LIFE WELL EARNED.

Since 1998, Belmont Village has safely delivered an unparalleled senior living experience for thousands of families. Collaborations with experts from the nation’s top universities and healthcare institutions, including the University of Texas Health Science Center, have established our national leadership in demonstrably effective cognitive health and wellness programs. Combining the highest levels of hospitality and care, our communities make life worth living.

Learn more at BelmontVillage.com/Austin

Nationally-recognized, highly trained staff Circle of Friends® award-winning memory care Licensed nurse on-site 24/7 | Dedicated Alzheimer’s care Physical therapy, rehabilitation and fitness

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY BEN THOMPSON

Global, seasonal trends prompt summer gas price swings Central Texas consumers are contending with a hot summer at the gas pump with prices gradu- ally rising—although costs have yet to reach the highs of last year’s spike.

Summer step-up While gas prices are well below levels seen last summer, Austin-area motorists may have noticed some daily variety and a steady climb through the summer so far.

Over the past year, the Austin area and the U.S. as a whole experienced one of the biggest gas price swings of the past decade, according to data from GasBuddy, a company that tracks gas prices. Prices have seen less variation this summer, but motorists may see more day-to-day adjust- ments thanks to a heat wave, seasonal travel and higher-level market disruptions. Zooming in After dipping to extreme lows at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, gas prices steadily rose through 2020 and 2021 before peaking in late spring 2022, hitting a high of around $5 per gallon nationally by mid-June 2022. The Austin area reached about $4.60, according to GasBuddy data. Since then, gas prices declined. This spring and summer, local prices hovered above $3 but are now climbing toward $3.50 per gallon. What they’re saying “We started o the summer a little bit cheaper than where we are now,” said Daniel Armbruster, a public aairs specialist with AAA Texas, an emergency road service. “In the last month, it’s bounced back and forth a little bit which is kind of what’s happened everywhere.” Zooming out Analysts said seasonal trends—gas prices traditionally rise in the summer—combined with recent national and global events are contrib- uting to price uctuations, including Russia’s

Weekly average Austin-area gas prices

Prices have held relatively steady through the summer but began climbing in late July.

$4.50

$3.50

Gas prices hit their highest levels in the past decade in June 2022.

$2.50

SOURCE: AAA TEXASCOMMUNITY IMPACT

invasion of Ukraine and oil production cuts by Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Coun- tries members and allies. Ed Hirs, a University of Houston Energy Fellow and energy economist, said OPEC production cut- backs appear to have the most noticeable impact on crude oil prices and costs at the pump. The University of Texas nance professor Ehud Ronn said the price of oil climbed steadily through July, an almost 20% increase in the past month. Looking ahead Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis

at GasBuddy, said he’s not optimistic that drivers are in line for immediate relief at the pump for seasonal price drops in the fall because of global oil production trends and a potentially active hurricane season. “The next few weeks as we close summer, I think there may be some upward pressure, and then I’m hopeful that sometime this fall we might start to see some downward pressure because of the seasonal changes,” he said. Armbruster said demand usually falls after Labor Day with the switch over to winter-blend gasoline, which is a little cheaper to produce.

Now accepting new patients

Promesa Apartmets

Introducing

Mcneil Dr.

YAY FOR *FALL FASHIONS* IN TEXAS! *STILL LIGHTWEIGHT COTTONS & LINENS ‘TIL AROUND THANKSGIVING, BUT THE COLORS WILL BE REPRESENTING! NEW FALL FASHIONS ARRIVING WEEKLY!

22- 22

Junaid Siddiqui, M.D. Gastroenterologist

Texas Digestive Disease Consultants

Bokabuku means: Be OK as you are! Clothes should work for YOU ! .... Not the other way around

7011 Rivelin Ranch Dr, Austin, TX 78750 | 512-341-0900

512.394.7346 • www.Bokabuku.com @bokabukufashion Hill Country Galleria

Visit TDDCTX.COM for more information

LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION

Education

EISD performs above STAAR state average

Eanes ISD drops tax rate 11% for 2023-24 The Eanes ISD board of trustees voted Aug. 21 to reduce the property tax rate from $1.0046 to $0.888 per $100 of valuation—the lowest rate in the district’s history. Zooming in The decision to reduce the tax rate is due to state compression. “This is a state-mandated change that we are following the law here and lowering the tax rate for compression,” board President James Spradley said. EISD Chief Financial Officer Chris Scott said the district’s recapture payment will be lowered due to the compression. “What’s going to happen is because we’re collecting less, our recapture payment will actually go down next year, counter-intui- tively for us,” Scott said.

The spring State of Texas Assessments of Aca- demic Readiness results were released by the Texas Education Agency on Aug. 16. Since 2021, a higher percentage of Eanes ISD students in third to eighth grades have passed than the state, and reading passage rates were higher than math. Passage rates were higher or the same as 2022 scores in all subjects except third grade reading and eighth grade social studies, according to TEA data. Zooming out The standardized tests were redesigned in 2023 following the passage of House Bill 3906 in 2019 and were administered almost exclusively online. What they’re saying “Eanes ISD students performed well on the revamped STAAR 2.0; we are proud of our students and pleased with the instruction they received,” said Molly May, EISD assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and assessment.

EISD STAAR passage rates State EISD

100% 20% 40% 60% 80%

Reading 5th grade 6th grade 7th grade 8th grade Science 5th grade 8th grade 7th grade 8th grade 5th grade 6th grade Math

Social Studies

5th grade

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

MENTAL HEALTH FOR LIFE

Pool cleaning, Pool maintenance, Equipment Sales, Pool repairs

l Health Life

We make pool ownership easy so that you have more time to focus on what matters.

FAMILY COUNSELING Nurture PLAY THERAPY / BEHAVIORAL CONCERNS / ANXIETY / ADHD / AUTISM DISORDERED EATING / DEPRESSION / FAMILY & COUPLE / RELATIONSHIPS

rming now for ADHD, s, and parent support. te guidance for ts, adults and families. oral concerns • Anxiety dered Eating • Depression le • relationships

Call now for a free quote Named the #1 customer service company in Texas by Pool and Spa News. 512-636-8122 patriotpoolandspa.com

Call us for a complimentary 20-minute consultation. (512) 774-5779 CEDAR PARK & LAKEWAY

mentary

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ELLE BENT & CHLOE YOUNG

LTISD STAAR scores improve from 2022 Lake Travis ISD students outperformed state averages in every grade level and subject in the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness administered this spring. Also of note STAAR results released Aug. 16 showed LTISD State LTISD Reading 5th grade 0 LTISD STAAR passage rates 100% 20% 40% 60% 80%

Lake Travis ISD adopts historically low tax rate The Lake Travis ISD board of trustees adopted a $232 million budget for fiscal year 2023-24 with a tax rate of $1.074 per $100 valuation at an Aug. 16 meeting. The rate is a historic low for the district, said Pam Sanchez, the district’s assistant superintendent for business services. What you need to know The decrease comes in light of the state’s recently passed property tax relief plan, which compressed the district’s maintenance and operations tax rate. Despite the decrease, LTISD was required to report a 22% tax rate increase—the difference between this year’s rate versus the no-new-revenue rate. A household at average market value will pay around $5,572 in school property taxes, almost $600 less than in FY 2022-23.

Math Science 5th grade 8th grade 7th grade 8th grade 5th grade 6th grade 6th grade 7th grade 8th grade

also maintained or outperformed scores from 2022. Scores stayed the same for seventh and eighth grade reading and sixth grade math while all others rose. This year was the first time students took the STAAR since the state redesigned the test to better align with classroom learning. The redesigned test was mostly administered online and included new types of questions, cross-curricular reading passages and evidence-based writing assessments. “This test is far more rigorous in just the way that it is written than it ever has been in the past,” said Lyndsae Benton, LTISD’s executive director of curriculum and instruction, at an Aug. 16 board of trustees meeting.

Social Studies

5th grade

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

THERE's No PLACE LIKE

Wednesday, Oct 25th 5-Spm Lake Travis High School

H�ME HOMECOMING 2023 Parade & Extravaganza

Parade Pep Rally Food Trucks Vendors and More!

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

Education

Private School Guide

2023

Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: 60% Catholic, 40% other faiths Extracurricular activities: athletics, robotics, STEAM, fine arts Enrollment: 514 Tuition: $13,915-$18,955 (pre-K); $22,250 (K-4); $24,850 (grades 5-8) • 2500 Wimberly Lane, Austin • www.sgs-austin.org St. Michael’s Catholic Academy Type: Religion based Grades served: 9-12 Religious orientation: 60% Catholic, 40% other faiths Extracurricular activities: athletics, dance, music, theatre, robotics Enrollment: 410 Tuition: $27,080 (domestic students); $31,315 (international students) • 3000 Barton Creek Blvd., Austin • www.smca.com

including daily custom classes dependent on learner needs; homogeneous grouping to reflect individual learning profiles; math and reading intervention Enrollment: 115 Tuition (monthly): $887 (preschool, 15 hours per week); $1,242 (preschool, 25 hours per week); $1,695 (preschool full-time); $1,803 (elementary); $1,864 (middle school) • 3500 RM 620 S., Bldg. G200, Bee Cave • www.themagnoliaschoolatx.com

Austin

Hill Country Christian School Type: Religion based Grades served: pre-K-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: athletics, robotics, band, choir, coding, various student clubs Enrollment: 715 Tuition: $6,578-$11,986 (pre-K); $13,457 (kindergarten); $14,925 (grades 1-5); $16,579 (grade 6-8); $18,471 (grades 9-12) • 12124 RM 620 N., Austin • www.hillcountrychristianschool.org Regents School of Austin Type: Religion based Grades served: K-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: athletics, fine arts, band, choir, dance, service council Enrollment: 1,000+ Tuition: $13,201-$17,557 (kindergarten); $17,557 (grades 1-4); $19,684 (grades 5-8); $21,067 (grades 9-12) • 3230 Travis Country Circle, Austin • www.regentsaustin.org School in the Hills-Steiner Ranch Type: Montessori Grades served: pre-K-6 Religious orientation: none Extracurricular activities: gymnastics, chess, STEM, gardening, yoga, martial arts Enrollment: 110 Tuition: $14,900 (primary); $15,970 (elementary) • 2900 N. Quinlan Park Road, Austin • www.schoolinthehills.com

Lakeway

Bluebonnet Montessori School of Lakeway Type: Montessori Grades served: pre-K-3 Religious orientation: none Extracurricular activities: art, Spanish, music Enrollment: 40 Tuition: $14,000-$15,000 (ages 3-5); $16,000 (K-3) • 15099 Debba Drive, Lakeway • www.bluebonnetmontessori.com

Bee Cave

Spicewood

Acton Academy Bee Cave Type: Multipurpose Grades served: pre-K-5 Religious orientation: none Extracurricular activities: art, music, gardening, Taekwondo

Lake Travis Christian Academy: An Acton Academy Type: Religion based Grades served: pre-K-6 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: art, leadership council, community service Enrollment: 26 Tuition: $10,000 • 5414 Reimers-Peacock Road, Spicewood • www.laketravischristianacademy.com

Enrollment: 35 Tuition: $15,125 • 14532 Hamilton Pool Road, Bee Cave • www.actonbeecave.org

The Magnolia School Type: Multipurpose Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: none Extracurricular activities: individualized approach,

Spicewood Christian Academy Type: Religion based

St. Gabriel’s Catholic School Type: Religion based

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY APRIL KELLEY

Grades served: K-9 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: music, arts, agriculture

• 4613B Bee Caves Road, West Lake Hills • www.guidepostmontessori.com

Bee Cave

Enrollment: 80 Tuition: $7,500 • 9660 East Hwy. 71, Spicewood • www.scatx.org

St. Stephen’s Episcopal School Type: Religion based Grades served: 6-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: fine arts, athletics, student government Enrollment: 699 Tuition: $34,000 (grades 6-8); $35,900 (grades 9-12) • 6500 St. Stephen’s Drive, Austin • www.sstx.org Trinity Episcopal School Type: Religion based Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: fine arts, athletics, community service Enrollment: 622 Tuition: $25,375 (K-4); $27,475 (grades 5-8) • 3901 Bee Caves Road, Austin • www.austintrinity.org This list is not comprehensive.

West Lake Hills

Fusion Academy Austin Type: Multipurpose Grades served: 6-12 Religious orientation: none Extracurricular activities: drama club, yoga club, running club, Dungeons & Dragons club Enrollment: 85 Tuition: $55,000 (grades 6-8); $50,000 (grades 9-12) • 4701 Bee Caves Road, Ste. 101, Austin • www.fusionacademy.com/campuses/austin Guidepost Montessori Type: Montessori Grades served: 3 months-6 six years Religious orientation: none Extracurricular activities: sports, robotics, cooking Enrollment: open all year, currently waitlisted Tuition: $1500-2200 per month, depending on age

International School of Texas Type: Multipurpose

Grades served: junior pre-K-8 Religious orientation: none Extracurricular activities: robotics, coding, athletics, chess Enrollment: 200+ Tuition: $22,525 (junior pre-K-4); $24,775 (grades 5-8) • Main campus: 4402 Hudson Bend, Austin • Middle school campus: 15506-C Hwy. 71, Bee Cave • www.internationalschooloftexas.com

As a private school, we assess each student as an individual, and teach based on their level of proficiency - not by their age, grade, or standardized test scores. We work toward fluency in each subject through positive reinforcement. Inspire a lifetime love of learning in every child

Exploration- Empowerment - Tailored Learning Educating ages 3-14 years old Serving Bee Cave, Lakeway & Surrounding Area

16:2 Student to Teacher Ratio

1 Goal for Your Child

96% Parent Satisfaction

Call today to schedule a FREE one-hour private tour of our campus! 3500 RR 620 South, Building G200 • Bee Cave, Texas, 78738 www.themagnoliaschoolatx.com • 512-266-9620

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

Education

BY CHLOE YOUNG

With almost 1,200 accredited private schools in Texas, parents have many alternatives to consider when choosing a school that is right for their child. Over 900 of these schools are nonprofit and represented by the Texas Private Schools Association. Accreditation is an important factor to consider for a private school to ensure the school is meeting or exceeding basic standards in public education, said Laura Colangelo, executive director of the Texas Private School Accreditation Commission and the Texas Private Schools Association. Private schools must meet or exceed the threshold for the following: Understanding private schools

The breakdown

What are the options?

Language immersion schools Overview:

• Double immersion: Students are fully immersed in two nonnative languages. • Dual immersion: English and non-English speakers are mixed in a classroom to learn each other’s language. Benefits: • It allows students to learn from and interact with different cultures. • It improves and stimulates brain development.

• Nonprofit, accredited private schools serve 268,757 students in Texas • Almost 1,200 accredited schools , 920 of which are nonprofit • $9,831 statewide median tuition for the 2022-23 school year • Around 140 private schools in Central Texas • 60%-70% are religious-based— the largest denomination being Catholic—with 250 nonprofit, accredited private schools • Can opt in to take the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, but are not required to

Private schools are tuition-based schools oper- ated by private organizations that are self-gov- erned independently and not regulated by state government. Here are some of the most common private school types parents might encounter, Colangelo said.

Language immersion schools allow students to learn subjects in multiple languages and gain bilingual or multilingual fluency. Various program types exist, including: • Partial and total immersion: Students are immersed in a new language 50%-100% of the time.

Montessori schools Overview:

Religious schools Overview:

Traditional schools Overview:

The cost

Montessori education was developed by Maria Montessori, an educational philosopher, to provide students with developmentally appropriate, hands- on learning opportunities. Students are placed into multiage classrooms usually spanning three years, according to the American Montessori Society. Benefits: • Montessori schools can be beneficial for students who are independent, like working at their own pace and enjoy experimentation. • Students participate in self-directed work, and teachers serve as guides for learning goals.

Religious private schools are run by organized religious groups or churches that incorporate their teachings in curriculum and experiences, such as chapel services. Benefits: • These schools allow students to be immersed in a particular religion throughout the school day, which is not available at public schools. • Various religious affiliations operate private schools from Christian, Islamic and Jewish faiths.

The term “traditional” is an umbrella term used to represent a variety of private school options. These schools can have religious or nonreligious affiliations and set their own curriculum standards. Benefits: • Most private schools have smaller campuses and class sizes than public schools. • A specific class or mission may be offered, such as a science, technology, engineering and math focus or language immersion. • Religious-based education is available.

There are various financing options available for parents interested in private education.

Curriculum

Teacher qualifications

Governance

Most private schools offer some sort of financial aid to increase the diversity of families attending schools.

Monthly or bimonthly payment plans are available.

Programs in which families can volunteer in exchange for tuition payments are also available.

Standardized test scores

Finances

SOURCES: TEXAS PRIVATE SCHOOL ACCREDITATION COMMISSION, TEXAS PRIVATE SCHOOLS ASSOCIATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

BEE CAVE 13015 Shops Pkwy (512) 263-9981

BRODIE LANE 4970 Hwy 290 W (512) 366-8260

NORTH 620 10601 N FM 620 (512) 506-8316

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 22-23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 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

communityimpact.com