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San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 10 FEB. 24 MARCH 23, 2026
2026 Camp Guide
Joint animal services plan underway as San Marcos deal winds down
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A Kyle Animal Control supervisor and o cer escort a dog as area leaders plot a new approach to animal sheltering and services. (Courtesy city of Kyle)
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Impacts
3 Kuri Pet Resort Owner Robyn Leenaerts will return to her hometown to start a 10,000-square-foot luxury dog and cat boarding, day care and grooming facility. • Opens mid-March • 2977 N. I-35, Ste. 102, San Marcos • Instagram: Kuri Pet Resort
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4 Café Cortado The coee truck expanded its European-inspired menu when new owner Lyndsay Lantz, a long-time customer of the coee truck, opened Dec. 10. The truck window closed Sept. 2, 2025, before the change in ownership. • 221 North St., San Marcos • Instagram: cafecortado78666 5 San Marcos Price Center Residents can help create a pollinator garden at the Price Center & Garden, a nonprot arts and cultural space. Donations accepted include terracotta, ceramic and cement planters, as well as garden art. • 222 W. San Antonio St., San Marcos • www.price-center.org
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6 Rooms 2 Go Construction on the upcoming Rooms To Go in San Marcos will begin June 1. The 52,460-square-foot project will cost an estimated $7.869 million and be completed on Sept. 1, 2027. Rooms To Go sells furniture for homes and outdoor spaces. • Near the intersection of I-35 S. and E. McCarty Lane, San Marcos • www.roomstogo.com 7 Sam’s Club The 135,000-square-foot shopping location is set to undergo a $5 million renovation. Construction is slated to begin on May 17 and be nished on Oct. 1. The project will consist of an extensive interior remodel of the club cafe and deli areas, and the addition of a new “shop-in”
San Marcos
Coming soon
2 Buc-ee’s Construction on the $47.2 million travel center began Jan. 29, 2025. The project spans nearly 75,000 square feet and is projected to create a minimum of 175 jobs with an average annual wage of $43,855. Buc-ee’s is known for its large pumping stations and 24/7 food options, including brisket sandwiches, Beaver Nuggets, jerky and more. • Opens mid-2026 • 3245 N. I-35, San Marcos • www.buc-ees.com
Now open
1 Einstein Bros Bagels The national bagel chain serves a variety of bagels and whipped cream cheese spreads. The bagel shop’s menu includes breakfast and lunch sandwiches, coee and espresso drinks, and sweets. Catering is also available. • Opening June 2026 • 135 Northgate Road, Bldg. 1, Ste. 100, San Marcos • www.einsteinbros.com
Our three locations also accept donation drop-o s seven days a week.
San Marcos ReStore 2521 I-35 San Marcos, TX 78666
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLIORN
include site and foundation preparation. • 1603 Hwy. 80, San Marcos • https://sun-techelectric.com
freezer and cooler. • 1350 Leah Avenue, San Marcos • www.samsclub.com/club/4958-san-marcos-tx 8 HEB convenience store The grocery store chain is set to begin construction of its rst convenience store in San Marcos on July 20. The 6,000-square-foot, $4 million project is expected to be completed on Feb. 26, 2027. The H-E-B convenience store will oer on-the-go food options, a fuel station and a car wash. This will be the fourth H-E-B option in San Marcos, following the third store’s opening later this year. • 3375 S. I-35, San Marcos • www.heb.com 9 Dollar General Construction on the city’s fth Dollar General began on the southeast side of town on Jan. 15. The 10,640-square-foot general store’s construction is
Coming soon
Closings
11 Francesca’s The retail chain started the process of liquidating all merchandise and closing all stores in mid-January. A specic closing date for the San Marcos location has not yet been determined. • Began liquidating Jan. 14 • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 N. I-35, Ste. 185, San Marcos • www.francescas.com
12 Playa Bowls The frozen fruit-treat eatery specializes in fresh acai bowls. Customers can choose a bowl option from the menu or build their own by selecting a base and toppings. Other menu items include smoothies, juices, cold brews and oatmeal. • Opens by early August • 817 Chestnut St., San Marcos • www.playabowls.com
Worth the trip
estimated to be completed by July 1. • 149 Wheat Field Lane, San Marcos • www.dollargeneral.com
Pinthouse Brewing The fourth location of Pinthouse Brewing celebrated its ve-year anniversary on Jan. 6. Pinthouse has several locations across the greater Austin area, serving specialty beer, pizzas and shareable bites. • 2201 E. Ben White Blvd., Austin • www.pinthouse.com
10 Sun-Tech Electrical Contractors A $50,000 renovation began in November and is expected to be completed by April. The family-owned business provides water and wastewater electrical services. According to property records, the work will
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Impacts
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN & SIENNA WIGHT
2 Astra Restaurant & Bar From Austin restaurateur Matti Bills, Astra will oer a variety of menu items, including artisan sandwiches, sourdough pizza, handmade pastas, seasonal vegetable dishes, burgers, craft cocktails and house-made soft- serve wae cones. The restaurant will also feature an on-site garden and source ingredients from other urban farms. During the initial opening, Astra will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday; the team anticipates to be open seven days per week by this summer. • Opened Feb. 6 45 TOLL
In the news
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4 The Huntington at Buda The senior living community celebrated 15 years in Buda in January. The Huntington oers units for independent living for residents 55 and older, with amenities such as a community pool, a tness center, a beauty salon and transportation for social activities and grocery shopping twice per week. • 1255 Firecracker Drive, Buda • www.thehuntingtonseniors.com 5 Shipley’s Do-Nuts The sweet-treat chain has served the Buda community for ve years, according to previous reporting by Community Impact . Shipley’s oers a variety of donuts, kolaches, specialty rolls and coee. • 1245 Main St., Ste. 100, Buda • www.shipleydonuts.com 6 Zaxby’s Chicken Fingers & Bualo Wings Zaxby’s Buda location is temporarily closed, according to the company’s website. The chicken restaurant has over 600 locations across the country, serving chicken tenders, sandwiches, salads and milkshakes. • 381 Old San Antonio Road, Buda • www.zaxbys.com
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• 404 Main St., Buda • Instagram: astra.btx
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Coming soon
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3 RacFit A community-driven tness and racquet sport facility is coming to Buda. RacFit oers tennis, pickleball and tness programming with “thoughtfully designed social and family-friendly spaces,” owner Grant Chambers said in an email to Community Impact. The business is also owned by locals Blake Hutchinson, John Hernandez, Brad Harris and Michael MacVay. • Opening March 1 • 1390 Robert S. Light Blvd., Buda • www.gorac¢it.com 2001
Now open
1 Roxie’s The dining concept by Salt Lick BBQ owner Scott Roberts serves Southern comfort food inspired by his grandmother Roxanna, or Roxie. • Opened Feb. 4 • Within Buda Mill & Grain Co., 308 S. Main St., Buda • www.roxiesbuda.com 35
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Buda
Impacts
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLIORN
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spot, on Jan. 5. The menu features over 30 loose-leaf tea options, several sugar-free green tea energy drinks, iced teas and a variety of specialty drinks. • Inside Abuelitas Bakery Spot, 21511 I-35 N., Ste. 101, Kyle • www.tea2go.us
Coming soon
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2 The Toasted Yolk Cafe John and Miriam Diaz will debut the cafe with a menu featuring breakfast, brunch and lunch options, including its popular Arnold sandwiches featuring poached eggs. • Opening by late June • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Ste. D-100, Kyle • www.thetoastedyolk.com 3 Bu alo Wild Wings Company ocials told Community Impact that plans are on track to ll nearly 5,500 square feet at Kohlers Crossing. The eatery is best known for its Bualo-style chicken wings, which guests can get served with a range of signature sauces or dry rubs. • Opening by fall 2001 21
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5 Dacy Business Park Open House Area brokers, investors, service providers and entrepreneurs can eat and drink while networking and getting an inside look at Phase 2 of the business park. The event is free; however, RSVP is encouraged. • March 11, 3:30-5:30 p.m. • 3300 Dacy Lane, Kyle • www.dacybusinesspark.com
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• 1080 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle • www.buffalowildwings.com
Closings
Now open
6 Abbott’s Frozen Custard The East Coast-based treat stop served a variety of custard avors, milkshakes, oats and more, as well as take-home options such as pints, cakes and pies. Abbott’s Frozen Custard opened its Kyle spot Oct. 13, 2024. • Closed Jan. 30
Relocations
1 Playa Bowls Customers can choose a fresh fruit bowl option from the menu or build their own. • Opened Jan. 17 • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Ste. A-400, Kyle • www.playabowls.com
4 Tea2Go TeaN’ergy Kyle Mother-daughter duo Patricia Gilbert and Meredith Jones said they moved their specialty tea shop from 22420 I-35 N., Unit 210, Kyle, across the street from their previous
• 2242 Kohler’s Crossing, Kyle • www.abbottscustard.com
Project Completion March 2026
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NEW HOMES IN BUDA, TEXAS
NEW HOMES READY NOW
Move in ready and under construction homes are now available at Persimmon in Buda. With a growing selection of new homes and homesites, now is the right time to see what is ready. Call (512) 793-9996 or scan to explore homes and learn more. Call (512)793-9996 • Open Daily 10am-6pm • 1574 FM 967, Buda, TX 78610
Equal Housing Opportunity
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN
$1.68M San Marcos land buy to boost growth The U.S. General Services Administration, or GSA, announced the transfer of over 240 acres of land in San Marcos on Feb. 5. A portion of the land was sold to the city of San Marcos earlier this year for $1.68 million, removing it from the federal inventory. At a glance The former U.S. Department of Labor land is located east of the San Marcos Regional Airport. The city purchased nearly 170 acres for a future airport expansion. The project is expected to increase economic activity and trac into the city, according to the GSA. How we got here The purchase was approved by the San Marcos City Council on Aug. 5, 2025. City ocials said a future development on the land will attract new businesses and create local jobs.
Buda EDC to launch interest-free loans The Buda Economic Development Corpora- tion will soon launch a program oering small businesses interest-free loans. The overview The Targeted Help for Retention, Innova- tion, Ventures, and Expansion, or THRIVE, program is a partnership between Buda EDC and LiftFund—a nonpro t nancial lender. Buda EDC approved a $105,000 program investment at a Dec. 8 meeting. LiftFund will provide up to $400,000 in loan volume. How it works Buda EDC CEO Jennifer Storm said they will buy down the interest rate on loans to Buda-based shops. “I’m excited that we’re able to listen to ... our businesses and nd solutions,” she said.
The specics
The city of San Marcos recently purchased the mapped land for future expansions of the regional airport.
Recently purchased land
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Why it matters San Marcos City Manager Stephanie Reyes said the purchase will help the city ensure compatibility between the airport and nearby land for develop- ment as San Marcos grows.
Hays spends $100M for oce and facility upgrades
The COs will fund ve major county projects: A closer look
The development of the Eastside Campus, a county administration building located in Kyle The development or acquisition of animal shelter facilities The remodeling and upgrading of the existing Hays County Government Center The development or acquisition of a Hays County, Precinct 4 o ce building The development or acquisition of a Hays County, Precinct 5 o ce building
and must be repaid within 30 years. Breaking it down City documents show revenue from an esti- mated tax rate levy of $0.0102 per $100 assessed property value will pay for the debt service. Agenda documents indicate net revenues from solid waste services may also be considered.
The Hays County Commissioners’ Court on Jan. 20 authorized the issuance of Certi cates of Obligation, or COs, to fund major county projects. The big picture The authorized COs allow the county to fund major public projects by using debt without voter approval. The sum of the certi cates for the approved projects may not exceed $100 million
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Education
BY SIENNA WIGHT
Some Hays CISD families may send their students to a di erent school this fall, after Hays CISD trustees OK’d attendance-zone map changes Jan. 26 to keep up with growth. The big picture The rezoning map proposes changes to the elementary and middle school attendance-zone maps to combat current and projected overcrowding at Suneld Elementary School, Buda Elementary School and McCormick Middle School. What’s proposed? District ocials said Turner’s Crossing-area students will be a ected the most. The neigh- borhood is projected to house 49 elementary students and 25 middle school students in 2026. Hays CISD schools shift with growth
Attendance adjustments for 2026 2027 school year
Elementary schools
Middle schools
Neighborhoods
Current campus New campus Current campus New campus
Buda Elementary School Buda Elementary School Suneld Elementary School
Carpenter Hill Elementary
• Persimmon
No change
No change
• Cole Springs Road area at 1626 • West of Cole Springs Road area at 1626
Elm Grove Elementary
Buda Elementary School
McCormick Middle School
Dahlstrom Middle School
• Turner's Crossing and surrounding area
SOURCE: HAYS CISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT NOTE: PARENTS SHOULD CHECK WITH HAYS CISD FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CHANGES
comments asserted that McCormick needs more substantial intervention to manage overcrowding. “[The rezoning] buys us about a year or so of extra time,” he said. “The x for McCormick is ... likely, an additional middle school.”
These numbers are expected to rise to 92 and 46, respectively, by 2035. Chief Communication Ocer Tim Savoy sent a notice to families that would gain or lose students due to the rezoning, and included an opportunity to provide feedback. Multiple
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Transportation
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Upcoming projects
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1 Austin Street reconstruction Project: Reconstruction of Austin Street from FM 2770 to San Antonio Road will add on-street parking, sidewalks and stormwater treatment features. Update: The design phase is 60% complete. • Timeline: 2021-TBD • Cost: $8.6 million • Funding source: 2021 Buda bond 2 Bishop and Belvin Street improvements Project: The segment between Belvin Street and West San Antonio Street will be rebuilt to add pedestrian and utility upgrades such as sidewalks, improved drainage, water and wastewater infrastructure, and retaining walls. Crews will also widen the creek that runs parallel to Veramendi Street at multiple locations using naturalized restoration methods. Update: The design phase is 90% complete. • Timeline: December-December 2028 • Cost: $11.26 million • Funding source: Capital Improvement Program; city utility and general funds
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3 Kyle Parkway-Lehman Road extension Project: Lehman Road from Bunton Creek Road to Dacy Lane will become a four-lane roadway. Kyle Parkway will connect with the new segment. Update: In December, sta met to resolve remaining comments and position the project for bidding, and City Council approved the next phase of electrical coordination work. • Timeline: mid-2026 to mid-2027 • Cost: $42.5 million • Funding source: 2022 Kyle bond
4 Windy Hill Road widening Project: Windy Hill Road from I-35 to Purple Martin Avenue will be expanded to four lanes, improve intersections, extend the culvert at the Richmond Branch low-water crossing, and add updated drainage facilities. Update: The project was advertised for construction bids in early December and a pre-bid conference is underway. • Timeline: mid-2026 to mid-2027 • Cost: $15.1 million • Funding source: 2022 Kyle road bond
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Development
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN
Kyle broke ground on the biggest private investment project in its history on Feb. 4, bringing retail stores, restaurants, housing and green space to the city’s east side. Ocials from the city and developers from NewQuest Properties put shovels to dirt on Wednesday, signifying the start to Kyle Park’s construction. City Council approved Kyle Park in December 2023, and construction initially began in late 2025. The development will include housing, public access green spaces designed for events, dining and recreational activities. Kyle site to bring retail, housing and 800 jobs
Mapping it out Kyle Park will add 450,000 square feet of commercial space to the east side of the city with over 20 conrmed tenants.
1 Retail 1 Dining 1 Services
City ocials and NewQuest Properties representatives break ground on the Kyle Park development.
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MICHAEL MILLIORNCOMMUNITY IMPACT
KOHLERS CROSSING
The Kyle Park development will include a connection to the city’s trail system, Vybe Kyle, promoting walkability and increasing access for residents, said Kyle Mayor Yvonne Flores-Cale at the groundbreaking. The project will be completed in phases, according to Newquest Properties. Phase 1, or the opening of 229,224 square feet of retail stores and restaurants, is anticipated to be complete in 2027.
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The breakdown
One more thing
The project is the largest private investment in the city’s history at an estimated $250 million when fully completed and operational, Kyle City Manager Bryan Langley said at the groundbreaking. The development is intended to provide a location for Hays County and Kyle residents that reduces the need to shop in nearby cities. “With more than 60% of our purchases made by Kyle residents occurring outside of Hays County, this project helps protect against retail leakage and keep retail dollars local,” Flores-Cale said at the groundbreaking.
Two major road developments are underway alongside Kyle Park. The Bebee Road realignment and expansion project and Kohlers to Seton extension project will support the project and work to improve east Kyle trac ow, according to the city. “Kyle Park is positioned to serve both our residents and pass-through trac along this major corridor,” Flores-Cale said at the groundbreaking. “We’re not only tapping into local demand, we’re drawing shoppers and visitors from across the area.”
At a glance
$2.5 million annual sales tax revenue
$1 million annual property tax revenue
426 multi-family apartment units
800+ full-time jobs
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLECOMMUNITY IMPACT
IT’S YOUR TIME Find Your Future With ACC
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Development
BY MICHAEL MILLION
San Marcos data center talks return
The background
The land owners’ request would see a Preferred Scenario Map amendment and zoning change for approximately 200 acres of land. The request is the second of its kind within the past year for Highlander SM One LLC, comprised of John Maberry, along with Donald and Ger- maine Tu. The San Marcos Planning and Zoning Commis- sion in March 2025 recommended a denial for the changes. The request was ultimately rejected in August 2025 after not gaining the necessary supermajority council vote. Since then, the land owners resubmitted a request. This time, the PZC approved a recom- mendation for the current designation amend- ment request at a Jan. 13 meeting.
Dozens of San Marcos residents spoke to the City Council on Feb. 3 regarding a data center proposed on the western side of Francis Harris Lane near the Hays Energy Power Plant. The tract of land is currently zoned and entitled for the development of single-family homes. The city received a petition opposing the project signed by at least 20% of the project’s neighbors prior to the meeting. That petition triggered a required 6-1 supermajority vote by council to pass the proposed data center’s owners for zoning and map designation changes. Community members expressed concerns over the potentially high water and electricity usage. Others shared support for the project, citing the addition of construction jobs necessary to complete the data center and the city’s potential tax revenue.
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Council held its rst reading and second public hearing on the request at a Feb. 17 meeting, after press time. Council members are expected to vote on the request at its second and nal reading during a March 3 meeting at City Hall, 630 E. Hopkins St., San Marcos., at 6 p.m. According to the city’s website, the public will be invited to provide comments during the meeting or email them ahead of time to cityclerk@sanmarcostx.gov.
Estimated Data Center Property Tax Revenue Using scal year 2025-26 tax rates
Taxing entity valuation City of San Marcos San Marcos CISD Hays County and special road district
$500 million
$3.26 million
$5.07 million
$1.96 million
$1 billion
$6.52 million
$10.15 million $3.93 million
$1.5 billion
$9.77 million
$15.23 million $5.89 million
SOURCE: CITY OF SAN MARCOS
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
State
State
BY HANNAH NORTON
As a far-reaching arctic blast moved toward Texas on Jan. 22, ocials assured residents that the state power grid would withstand the storm and future severe weather. Five years earlier, Winter Storm Uri blanketed Texas, devastating a power grid that was unprepared for the historic February 2021 storm. Nearly 250 people died during prolonged power outages across the state, Community Impact reported. State leaders said they will ensure issues from 2021 do not occur this year, emphasizing that changes have been made in recent years to harden the grid against extreme weather. Texas projects stable power grid through March
Texas families can apply to receive state funds for private education or homeschooling from Feb. 4-March 17 under the state’s new education savings account program, known as Texas Education Freedom Accounts. Ahead of the 2026-27 school year, most families accepted into the $1 billion program will receive $10,474 per student to spend on private education and related expenses. Students with disabilities will be eligible for up to $30,000 annually, while homeschooled students will receive up to $2,000 per year. Over 1,000 private schools and pre-K providers, many of which are located in and around Texas’ largest cities, will participate in the program, according to the state comptroller’s oce. ESA applications open in February
Approved Texas private schools As of Jan. 14, 1,014 private schools had been approved to accept education savings accounts. Texas has over 1,300 accredited private schools.
Zooming in
What to expect
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas forecasts the tightest period this February through March will be from 7-8 a.m. daily, when little to no solar power is being produced. During that time, ERCOT found the chances of a grid emergency are 1.13% in February and 1.64% in March. Texans last saw a grid emergency during a September 2023 heat wave, per ERCOT records. The state grid withstood three freezes in early 2025 without ERCOT asking residents to conserve power, Community Impact previously reported. “The power grid system we have today is completely dierent than the power grid system we had [in 2021],” Gov. Greg Abbott said during a Jan. 22 news conference in Austin. “We have abundant power, [and] the reliability of it has never been better.”
If demand for the education savings account program exceeds the $1 billion available, the comptroller’s oce will use a lottery system to determine acceptance, with priority for students with disabilities and low-income families. To be eligible for the program, a student must: • Reside in Texas • Be a U.S. citizen or lawful resident • Be eligible to attend a Texas public school, open-enrollment charter school or pre-K program Students must be enrolled in a pre-K program or private school to receive the $10,474 in private education funding, according to the program website. This means that some families may need to apply to private schools before they are accepted into the ESA program.
1 Houston area: 297 2 Dallas-Fort Worth area: 262 3 San Antonio area: 134
7 Rio Grande Valley: 46 8 Central Texas: 30
9 West Texas: 27 10 El Paso area: 12 11 North Texas: 11 12 Panhandle: 9
4 Austin area: 89 5 East Texas: 49 6 South Texas: 48
Community Impact coverage areas
THE COMPTROLLER’S OFFICE PERIODICALLY UPDATES ITS DATABASE AS ADDITIONAL SCHOOLS ARE ACCEPTED INTO THE PROGRAM.
12
Gov. Greg Abbott listens to a Jan. 22 weather brie ng about a winter storm impacting Texas.
11
2
9
5
10
HANNAH NORTONCOMMUNITY IMPACT
8
In recent years, tens of thousands of megawatts of capacity have been added to the grid annually. Energy providers are also required to “weatherize” their facilities to withstand extremely hot or cold temperatures, Community Impact previously reported.
4
1
3
6
SOURCES: TEXAS COMPTROLLER’S OFFICE AND TEXAS PRIVATE SCHOOL ACCREDITATION COMMISSIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT
7
SAN MARCOS 510 Barnes Dr (512) 392-0366
CREEKSIDE TOWN CENTER 263 Creekside Crossing
(830) 608-1969 NEW BRAUNFELS 1671 IH-35 S (830) 629-0434
SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 S I-35 Frontage Rd (512) 280-7400
Community
Camp Guide
2026
Sean Huiet Volleyball Camp Type: sports, day and overnight Grades: K-12 Dates: July 13-26 Cost: $178.50-$609 (rate varies by session) • Strahan Coliseum, 106 Charles Austin Drive, San Marcos • www.seanhuietvolleyballcamp.com Steve Holeman Soccer Camps Type: sports, day Ages: 4-13, grades 8 and up (girls ID camp) Dates: May 31-July 16 Cost: $170-$380 (rate varies by session) • Bobcat Soccer Complex, 1101 Academy St., San Marcos • www.steveholemansoccercamps.com
San Marcos
Buda
Autism Camp Type: arts, day Ages: 5-14 Dates: July 9-30 Cost: $150 per week • Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.hhp.txst.edu/collaboration-and-outreach/ autism-camp.html Bobcat Theatre Camp Type: arts, day Grades: 2-12 Dates: July 6-17 Cost: $500 per week • Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.sotdf.txst.edu/theatre/summer-camps/ texas-state-theatre-camp.html Costs: $150 per week (residents), $175 per week (non-residents) • Dunbar Recreation Center, 801 MLK Drive, San Marcos • www.sanmarcostx.gov/camps Math camps Type: academic, day, overnight Grades: 3-12 Dates: June 7-Aug. 1 Cost: $400-$6,600 (rate varies by session) • Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.txst.edu/mathworks/mathworks-camps Discovery Camp Type: academic, day Ages: 5-10 Dates: June 8-July 31
Ladybird STEAM and Nature Camp Type: day Ages: 6-16 Dates: June 1-July 23 Costs: $325-$400 per week • 2050 Cole Springs Road, Buda • www.budamontessori.com
Kyle
RockingHorse Academy Type: day Grades: 4.5-12 Ages: May 26-Aug. 6 Cost: $260 per week • Kids Dance Center Studio, 305 Rocking M Road, Ste. A, Kyle • www.rockinghorseacademy.com
Steven Trout Baseball Camps Type: sports, day Ages: 6-13 Dates: June 22-July 23 Cost: $265 per four-day session
• Bobcat Ballpark, 225 Charles Austin Drive, San Marcos • info.collegebaseballcamps.com/steventroutbaseball
Wimberley
String Camp Type: music, day, overnight Ages: 12-18 Dates: June 21-26
Summer camps by projectART Type: arts, day Grades: K-9 Dates: June 1-Aug. 7 Cost: $250 per week (half-day); $375 per week (full day) • HippoCampus Learning Center, 260 Carney Lane, Wimberley • www.projectartwimberley.org
Cost: $525 (commuter); $825 (overnight) • Texas State University School of Music, 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.music.txst.edu/stringcamp.html
Summer Fun Camp Type: day, overnight Ages: 7-13 Dates: June 8-July 31 Costs: $40 per week (residents); $63 per week (non-residents) • Address TBD • www.sanmarcostx.gov/camps
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
San Marcos
Buda
Inspired Minds Art Center Type: academics, arts, day Ages: 5-18+ Dates: June 1-Aug. 7 Cost: $195-$550 per session • 121 Main St., Buda • www.inspiredminds.art/camps
Aquatic Science camps Type: academic, day and overnight Ages: 6-16 Dates: May 31-July 31 Cost: $150-$1,199 (rate varies by session)
• Texas State University, 601 University Drive, San Marcos • www.eardc.txst.edu
Serving ages 6-16 years of age.
CAMP WEEKS JUNE 1 JUNE 8 JUNE 15 JUNE 22
DAILY ACTIVITIES -STEAM ACTIVITIES -BOARD GAMES/CHESS -NATURE/FARM -DRAMA/ART/POTTERY -SPORTS/ATHLETICS
JULY 6 JULY 13 JULY 20
This summer, our age 10-16 group will have the unique opportunity to work in our cutting edge maker-space on projects/activities related to: Coding and Robotics • STEAM Lessons • Sewing Lessons • Culinary Lessons • Pottery Lessons • Art Lessons and more! Campers ages 6-9 will also have STEAM, Pottery, Art, Culinary, and Drama lessons in their class- rooms and playground space!
2050 Cole Springs Road Buda TX 78610 | WWW.BUDAMONTESSORI.COM | 512-295-3636
19
SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Joint animal services plan underway as San Marcos deal winds down From the cover
The breakdown
The details
According to the ILA, Kyle will be responsible for all surveying, design and construction, and property acquisitions. The municipalities will split the project’s $1.66 million design contract and day-to-day operational costs. Kyle will base it on the number of intakes each year and the shelter’s annual budget. The facility will feature enough room to intake, process and treat animals from the region, a service made crucial following the end of SMRAS partner- ships. The shelter will have a space for public safety or law enforcement operations related to animal welfare as well, according to the ILA.
working on the development of a new shelter. Kyle will lead the project’s construction and maintain full ownership of the animal shelter, according to an ILA approved Jan. 20 by the City Council. The facility will serve the city of Buda and a designated part of Hays County. The exact capacity for each entity will be determined during the project’s design phase. All day-to-day operations of the facility will be the responsibility of the city of Kyle; however, Kyle will not have authority over any animal control incident involving a criminal oense outside of its own law enforcement’s jurisdiction, such as abuse or neglect.
Plans for a regional animal care facility are underway in Kyle. The cities of Kyle and Buda, along with Hays County, agreed to facilitate the construction, operation and joint use of the shelter through interlocal agreements, or ILAs, approved during individual January meetings. The Kyle City Council approved a $1.66 million design contract with Jackson & Ryan Architects Inc. at a Jan. 20 meeting as well. The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter, or SMRAS, previously serviced Kyle, Buda and Hays County. After SMRAS announced the end of its regional partnerships in August 2024, Kyle began
The cost The entities served by the shelter will share the total cost of the project’s design contract and day- to-day operations.
The specics The proposed shelter will serve the cities of Kyle and Buda and other areas of Hays County.
MAIN ST.
967
City of Buda
City of Kyle
Hays County
Site coverage
City of Kyle Animal Care Facility
1
Design cost breakdown
1626
City of Buda City of Kyle
City of Niederwald
35
WINDY HILL RD.
City of Uhland
$542,820
$1,070,000
S. LOOP 4
1
Total: $1.66 M
NIEDERWALD STRASSE
$46,480
1
Maintenance and operational cost breakdown
OLD STAGECOACH RD.
33.1%
64.5%
150
A conceptual rendering presented to council Jan. 20.
2.4%
N
RENDERING COURTESY CITY OF KYLE
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLECOMMUNITY IMPACT
NOTE: KYLE COUNCIL WILL SET THE TOTAL MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONAL COST ANNUALLY.
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLECOMMUNITY IMPACT
www.jdacpa1.com 310 Stagecoach Trail #100B San Marcos, TX 78666 CALL 512-396-CPA1 Hello, Neighbor
TAX SERVICES• SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING PAYROLL• QUICKBOOKS CONSULTING
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN
Looking ahead
How we got here
Looking back
Aug. 20, 2024: San Marcos ends shelter partnerships eective September 2026 Jan. 7, 2025: Kyle Council OKs full feasibility study for animal service needs Sept. 30, 2025: Hays County Commissioners Court OKs memorandum of understanding* Oct. 8, 2025: Buda Council OKs memorandum of understanding Jan. 6, 2026: Hays County Commissioners Court OKs interlocal agreement Jan. 20, 2026: Kyle and Buda councils OK interlocal agreements at separate meetings Jan. 20, 2026: Kyle Council OKs full design contract with Jackson & Ryan Architects Inc.
Architects will turn the 2025 feasibility study results into a development document needed to prepare for the construction phase, Kyle Communications Manager Alison Kelly said. They will align the needs of each entity, conrm data and capacity calculations, and produce a facility design and construction documents before completing a permit submission and acquiring any needed bidding support, she added. Design completion is projected to happen within scal year 2025-26; construction is estimated to be completed by the end of scal year 2026-27. “Multiple factors can inuence design, including feedback cycles, decision-making pace, scope renements and coordination with consultants or stakeholders,” Kelly said. “Some phases may move quickly, while others may require more time to ensure the best outcome.”
SMRAS decided to end regional services and focus solely on San Marcos, citing overcrowding and expanded county growth, according to previ- ous Community Impact reporting. Partnerships with SMRAS are set to expire in seven months on Sept. 30, SMRAS Community Engagement Coordinator Minnie Buckhaults said. “We will be evaluating any need for any exten- sions based on construction timelines for the city of Kyle’s shelter,” Buckhaults said. “We plan to support all partners until the new Kyle facility is completed and will adapt as that develops.” A Kyle feasibility study determined that without the partnership, the city would need a facility that could meet animal sheltering and control demands. Buda and Hays County approached Kyle about the shelter potentially servicing the regional area.
*A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING IS A FORMAL, NONLEGALLY BINDING AGREEMENT BETWEEN TWO OR MORE ENTITIES THAT OUTLINES AN AGREEMENT TO COLLABORATE.
SOURCES: CITIES OF BUDA, KYLE, SAN MARCOS AND HAYS COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT
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21
SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Business
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Mike and Tracy Koleber, center, opened the Kyle spot in January 2025.
Water safety tips Though Nitro Swimming is open year-round, co-owner and head coach Mike Koleber shared safety tips ahead of summer swim season. Stay alert Avoid distractions like phones and stay within arm’s reach of weak swimmers Build skills Teach kids to oat on their backs and yell for help
The 50-meter competition pool is used for competitive training, with setups for short-course and long-course swimming.
PHOTOS COURTESY NITRO SWIMMING
Nitro Swimming builds condence in Kyle, 2M followers
school pool oers lessons for swimmers ages 6 months through adults. The 50-meter Olympic-sized pool oers space for competition and swim team training, including an option for a less intense regimen. “We do that so they can learn like an Olympian without the huge commitment,” Koleber said. What else? Along with training and technique, Koleber said he hopes swimmers leave with more than a new skill; he wants them to leave feeling calm, con - dent, and connected to the community. “We want Nitro to be their haven, their place where they can forget about whatever is bad in the world and escape to our amazingly positive world of aquatics,” he said.
One year into its expansion into Kyle, Aus- tin-based Nitro Swimming is making waves not only in Hays County, but across the screens of nearly 2 million people online. What’s happening? Head coach and co-owner Mike Koleber uses his @coachmikenitro Instagram pro le to provide free mini-coaching sessions. Those interested can take a deeper dive into lessons through his online learn-to-swim course. What’s oered? In Kyle, though, that teaching style shows up poolside where Koleber and his team oer a 40,000-square-foot facility with two pools: one for lessons and one for competitive training. Kept at about 88 degrees, the 25-yard swim
Use life jackets Don’t rely on oat toys for safety
Secure the area Use pool covers and alarms, and check pool drains
1626
RIKARDSON
N
3425 S. FM 1626, Kyle www.nitroswim.com/kyle-location
Before
After
What’s a prosthodontist? Prosthodontist are specialists in the restoration and replacement of missing teeth and oral/facial structures with natural, esthetic, and functional replacements.
What we do: ¤ Full mouth rehabilitation ¤ Crowns and bridges with or without implants ¤ All-on-4, All-on-X
¤ Veneers ¤ Snap dentures, dentures, partial dentures ¤ Cosmetic dentistry
Dr. “Jane” Chia-Chen Tsai, DDS, MSD | 512-518-4358 | www.CentralTexasProsthodontics.com | 2410 Hunter Rd, Ste 101, San Marcos, TX 78666
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Events
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Guided Light-Up Kayak Tour Attendees can explore Spring Lake in clear kayaks with underwater lighting while learning about its history and surrounding habitat—home to eight endangered and threatened species. • March 6, 6-7:30 p.m. • $45 (admission); $40 (admission, university and military members) • The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, 201 San Marcos Springs Drive, San Marcos • www.meadowscenter.txst.edu
Walk and Wag Fun 5K Bene¢ting Paws On The Ground Hays, which funds animal welfare and rescue eorts in Hays County, those planning to participate in the family-friendly walk are encouraged to register by March 3 to receive a commemorative T-shirt. • March 7, 10 a.m.-noon • Free (ages 4 and younger), $15 (ages 5-17), $25 (adults) • Esther’s Tex Mex, 210 S. Main St., Buda • www.pawsontheground.org
Middleton Brewing 5K Beer Run Bene¢ting the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center, prizes will be awarded for a range of categories. Runners will receive a souvenir T-shirt and pint glass, and can taste up to four 8-ounce servings of beer following the 5K. • March 7, 8-11 a.m. • Registration prices vary based on age
and time of purchase • Middleton Brewing,
101 Oakwood Loop, San Marcos • www.middletonbrewingtx.com
• March 21, 2-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • Buda Public Library, 405 E. Loop St., Buda • https://budalibrary.libcal.com
February
March
Sweetheart’s Mardi Gras Casino Night The Rotary Club of San Marcos will host a Mardi Gras-themed Casino Night fundraiser. Guests can dine on Cajun cuisine while playing games. Prizes will also be awarded throughout the night. • Feb. 28, 6:30-10:30 p.m. • $50 (admission) • Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing, 2249 Airport Drive, San Marcos • www.smtxrotary.com
41st Annual Great Texas River Cleanup Volunteers will gather to remove litter and other debris from the Lake Kyle Park area. Ocials will provide supplies, snacks and water.
Spring Plant & Tree Sale The Hays County Master Gardeners Association’s annual event will oer a range of plants such as ornamental trees, shrubs, perennials, vegetables, herbs and more. • March 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • Free (admission) • Budaful Farmers Market, 204 San Antonio St., Buda • www.hayscountymastergardeners.org
• March 7, 9 a.m. • Free (admission) • Lake Kyle Park, 700 Lehman Road, Kyle • https://kylerec.recdesk.com
Hobby and Volunteer Fair Fairgoers can expect to learn about activities, classes and volunteer opportunities from area organizations.
23
SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
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