The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
Georgetown Edition VOLUME 19, ISSUE 8 APRIL 24 MAY 22, 2026
2026 Private School Guide
City ordinances restrict homeless support as nonpro t aid grows
Several local nonprot organizations have found new ways to provide resources for the community and are calling on the city to ll in gaps. Still, o cials maintain the ordinances are needed to address increased resident complaints and prevent the proliferation of the unhoused population.
BY GRACIE WARHURST
Since Georgetown City Council passed two ordinances in June 2025 that a ect the unhoused population downtown, city o cials and the police department have focused on enforcement and maintained a limited role in seeking homelessness solutions.
CONTINUED ON 26
Also in this issue
St. Paul United Methodist Church
Impacts Page 6 Read about Sovian, a new European-style steakhouse Page 8 See where WilCo purchased land for its Justice Complex Government
35
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. ST.
29
N
Volunteers with nonpro t Kat Kares serve hot meals to unhoused individuals in Georgetown. (Gracie Warhurst/Community Impact)
Education
Page 18
Learn about 15 area private and charter schools
Beat the Summer Rush Appointments Fill Up Fast...Schedule Now! Pediatric Dental Care + Orthodontics for the Whole Family!
NOW OFFERING IN-OFFICE ORAL SURGERY SERVICES
Dr. Kenny Havard • Dr. Travis Hildebrand Dr. Lisa Jacob
Dr. Aaron White
4507 Williams Drive • 512.869.4100 GtownKids.com | GTFamilyOrtho.com
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Your Board-Certified Emergency Physicia Dr. Valentini Dr. Daniels Use Your In-Network Benefits With Us!
Physician Owned & Operated
Emergency Care for Children & Adults
Co
W
Immediate Service and Test Results On Site CT, X-Ray, Ultrasound and Lab Open 24/7 No Wait Times Personalized Time and Attention Over 1750 5-Star Reviews Upfront Pricing
Your Board-Certified Emergency Physician Has Over 20 Years Experience Dr. Valentini Dr. Daniels Dr. Prudo
1210
Emergency Care for Children & Adults Immediate Service and Test Results On Site CT, X-Ray, Ultrasound and Lab Open 24/7 No Wait Times Personalized Time and Attention Over 1600 5-Star Reviews
www.Geo (512) 690-4590 Conveniently Located Between Walgreens and the New HEB
N
W University Ave
1210 W. University Ave. Georgetown, TX 78628
Upfront Pricing
www.GeorgetownFamilyER.com (512) 690-4590
Our purpose. Our purpose is to provide you with all the comforts of home—where scenic walking trails and tranquil greenspaces inspire your well-being. Here, you’ll find an enhanced quality of life and a welcoming community that allows you to cherish all the moments that matter most. We call it our purpose. You call it home.
Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care
TheWesleyan.org
3
GEORGETOWN EDITION
CONSTRUCTION COMPLETE Limited Availability!
FOR SALE OR LEASE
4-way stop light on Hwy 29 for easy ingress/egress Unit Sizes: 1,800 – 21,600 SF (+ Optional Mezzanine Level 600 – 3,240 SF) Units from 24 ft to 28 ft outside height Large Grade Level Frosted Glass Roll-up Doors Community Loading High Dock Parking Spaces Ratio 3.33 per 1000 SF High Speed Fiber Internet Access & 3 Phase power available Option to add a fully enclosed yard
29
355 Cross Creek Road, Georgetown, TX 78628 www.tbndevelopment.com/ crosscreek
Watch Video link here:
LEE IDOM 512-993-0071 CCCommercialPark@gmail.com
Keep your heart happy with care close to home. From minimally invasive procedures and expert care for irregular heart rhythms to open heart surgery, our cardiovascular team delivers personalized care in a treatment plan as unique as you. And with multiple locations, where you get care is up to you.
The power to live better ®
Find a specialist
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. ©2025 Baylor Scott & White Health. 13-ATX-1671800 DT
4
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
About Community Impact
Community Roots: Founded in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, we remain a locally owned business today. Texas-Wide Reach: We deliver trusted news to 75+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio metros.
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Brittany Anderson Katlynn Fox Jessica McLaren Bailey Meyers Michael Milliorn Jillian Nachtigal Hannah Norton Daniel Schwalm Hamera Shabbir Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Chloe Young Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt Alissa Foss
Denise Seiler General Manager dseiler@ communityimpact.com
Minh Nguyen Laura Patino Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Product Manager Gloria Amareth Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara Austin Market President Travis Baker
Claire Shoop Editor cshoop@ communityimpact.com
Dana Smyth Account Executive dsmyth@ communityimpact.com
Contact us
16225 Impact Way, Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases geonews@communityimpact.com Advertising geoads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising
Proudly printed by
© 2026 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
Connect on social
@communityimpactatx
@communityimpactatx
River kayaking & fishing Climate-controlled luxury safari tents Wide-open Texas views Fun for the whole family COMFORT MEETS NATURE Why Star Studded Nights Is Your Perfect Spring Getaway Book Your Stay Today!
www.starstuddednights.com 254-384-8080 2007 County Rd 3310, Valley Mills, TX 76689
5
GEORGETOWN EDITION
195
35
Impacts
3 Aspire Allergy & Sinus The practice oers allergy testing and treatment, food allergy testing and treatment, sinus evaluation and treatment, allergy shots, and allergy drops. The Georgetown clinic will be led by physician assistant Kyle Bartschmid. • Opened April 9 • 3316 Williams Drive, Ste. 120, Georgetown • www.aspireallergy.com Bird Dog Roong Brian and Amanda Prokaski launched the company, which oers roof inspections, repairs and replacement, as well as storm damage repair, gutter and fascia services. Based in Leander, the business serves the surrounding area, including Georgetown. • Opened Feb. 2 • www.birddogroofers.com
A N
9
14
4
245
2338
SERENADA DR.
1 2 10
130 TOLL
LAKE GEORGETOWN
8
3
LAKEWAY DR.
35
29
13
5
6
RIVERY BLVD.
7
KAUFFMAN LOOP
NE INNER LOOP
29
Coming soon
WOLF RANCH PKWY.
4 Bojangles The chain was originally expected to bring its menu of chicken, sandwiches, biscuits and sides to Georgetown in early 2026. 130 TOLL
29
35
11
16
15
• Opening in late fall or early winter • 4808 Williams Drive, Georgetown • www.bojangles.com
SCENIC DR.
17
130 TOLL
1460
12 18
79
35
5 Crave The Utah-based brand will oer loaded sodas with syrups, creams and fruit add-ons, as well as a range of rotating cookie avors. The new location will mark the company’s rst Austin-area venture, and will be locally owned and operated by franchisees Arun Serikar and Purna Durshanpalli. • Opening in May • 19397 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Ste. 120, Leander • www.cravecookies.com 6 SafeSplash Swim School Coming to Leander Tech Park, the business will oer lessons on water safety and structured swim programs for all ages, owner Sukesh Bodavula said. 110
SE INNER LOOP
1431
MAP NOT TO SCALE
N TM; © 2026 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Georgetown
2 HomeGoods The home decor store is one of the latest additions to the Cedar Breaks West shopping center. The company sells furniture, rugs, accessories, bedding and more for 20%-60% below full-price retailers. • Opened April 23 • 4610 Williams Drive, Ste. 105, Georgetown • www.homegoods.com
Now open
1 Marshalls The o-price retailer’s new 24,089-square-foot store carries a selection of brand-name and designer fashion. • Opened April 2 • 4610 Williams Drive, Georgetown • www.marshalls.com
1460
110
35
Dr. Craig P. Torres D.D.S., Endodontist Board Certi ed (COL US Army Dental Corps RET) • Non-surgical root canal therapy • Root canal retreatments • Root canal surgery Dr. Gloria T. Torres D.D.S., Prosthodontist (LTC US Army Dental Corps RET) 68 Years Combined Experience (Retired Army Dentists)
1431
Call for an appointment 512-868-5999 Advanced Technology CEREC (one day all ceramic crowns) Endodontic Microscopes Digital radiography/photography CBCT (3-D) scans Oral/nitrous sedation www.Torres-Dental-Specialties.com
• Restorative Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Full mouth reconstruction
(severe wear/malocclusions) • Complex esthetic and functional cases • Dental implants • Dentures / partial dentures
4402 Williams Drive, Suite 104 • Georgetown, TX • Hours M-F 8-5 • Most insurance accepted
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
Now open
Coming soon
Expansions
7 Sovian Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge The European-style steakhouse serves wood-red steaks, Mediterranean seafood, cocktails and wines. This is chef and owner Vira Chudasma’s second Georgetown restaurant. She also owns La Riv Wood Fired Italian. • Opened April 7 • 1500 Rivery Blvd., Ste. 2175, Georgetown • www.sovianrestaurant.com
11 The League Kitchen & Tavern and Tony C’s Pizza & Beer Garden Greystone Construction and TC4 & Co. Hospitality hosted a groundbreaking March 27 for the restaurants. The League Kitchen & Tavern serves scratch-made American comfort foods and Prohibition era-style cocktails. Tony C’s Pizza & Beer Garden oers New York-style pizza and Italian food. • Opening TBD • 1411 I-35, Georgetown • www.leaguekitchen.com; www.tonycsbeergarden.com
15 Austin Christian University Located on Celebration Church’s 110-acre Georgetown campus, the school marked the beginning of construction on its Bringmann Center March 27. The $50 million facility will house a 750-seat auditorium and be a hub for campus activities and student services. • Expanding in fall 2028 • 601 Westinghouse Road, Georgetown • www.austinchristianuniversity.org
12 Buckle Known for its denim oerings, the store stocks clothing for men, women and children across a variety of brands. Work to renovate the future retail space is set to begin and end this fall. • 4401 N. I-35, Ste. 793, Round Rock • www.buckle.com
16 East Williamson County Texas State Technical College The campus will add semiconductor technology as well as automation and robotics technology curriculum this fall. The addition of these courses to the school’s curriculum is a direct response to a surge in demand for skilled workers in the semiconductor and manufacturing
• Opening in the fall • 80 Kauffman Loop, Leander • www.safesplash.com
8 Fifty/50 Pilates With its rst location in Cedar Park, the business oers strength and sculpt, cardio and endurance, and stretch and yoga classes. The Georgetown location, which will be the company’s third in the north Austin metro, was originally expected to open in early 2026. • Opening in May • 3920 Williams Drive, Ste. 109, Georgetown • www.§ifty50pilates.com 9 United Heritage Credit Union Construction on a second Georgetown branch is expected to begin this summer. UHCU serves members throughout Central Texas, Austin and Tyler, oering checking and savings accounts; home, auto and student loans; and insurance services. • Opening spring 2027 • 915 CR 245, Georgetown • www.uhcu.org
industries in Williamson County. • 1600 Innovation Blvd., Hutto • www.tstc.edu
Relocations
13 Matter of Taste Florist Owner Lindsay Roach said the custom oral business will move to another spot within the city after over 40 years at 4230 Williams Drive, Georgetown. • 1603 Northwest Blvd., Bldg. B, Georgetown • www.amatteroftasteflorist.com
17 Court Appointed Special Advocates of Williamson County The child welfare organization opened its renovated o©ce April 1. CASAs, trained volunteers who work alongside Child Protective Services and the criminal justice system, help children in abusive situations nd safety and permanent homes. • 2100 Scenic Drive, Ste. 110, Georgetown • www.casawilco.org 18 Round Rock Premium Outlets Simon Malls, the real estate trust that owns the outlet mall, announced a refresh for the property began in February and is expected to complete this summer. In addition to a new coat of paint in linen-toned neutrals, the center will receive new waynding signs, upgrades to common areas, restroom renovations and landscaping enhancements. • 4401 N. I-35, Round Rock • www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/round-rock
In the news
14 Georgetown ISD Health and Wellness Center
Lone Star Circle of Care and Georgetown ISD have partnered to bring behavioral health services to the clinic this spring. The clinic brought on licensed clinical social worker Kathryn Seela, who will provide therapy
What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS
DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION
10 Famous Footwear The company sells a selection of shoe brands. Work on the space in the Cedar Breaks West shopping center is expected to begin in May and run through October. • 4610 Williams Drive, Ste. 103, Georgetown • www.famousfootwear.com
services for patients age 5 and older. • 5001 Airport Road, Georgetown • www.georgetownisd.org
7
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Government
BY GRACIE WARHURST
WilCo purchases 253 acres in Georgetown for Justice Complex
Williamson County commissioners approved a $75.82 million purchase of 253 acres of land in Georgetown on March 24, intended for the future Justice Complex, according to a news release. Because Georgetown is the county seat, the Justice Complex must be located within the city’s limits or in its extraterritorial jurisdiction. The land purchase includes four pieces of property in southwest Georgetown, including a 134-acre portion at 1200 CR 110, and 119 acres south of Sam Houston Avenue and east of Maple Street, the release states. There are also several existing county buildings on SE Inner Loop, providing for more ecient government operations, Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey said at the March 24 meeting. “[That’s] why there’s so many acres there, so it can become a campus,” Covey said. “Not just for the jail and justice center, but perhaps other
locations the county owns ... perhaps one day they can move here.” Some context Kitchell, the project manager for the county’s Justice Complex project, conrmed in a December presentation the county will need to construct a new facility due to unsuitable conditions at the current location. The current justice center is over capacity for oce space and cannot accommodate the recently added district court, according to county documents. The county jail and sheri’s oce needs to be updated to modern standards, as well as to support future capacity increase, the documents state. Kitchell helped identify potential project sites during the rst and second phases of planning. Now that there is a conrmed site, the county hopes to open the new Justice Center complex by 2030, according to a tentative project schedule.
The site is near several existing county facilities, including the upcoming administration building.
County-owned land
1460
110
Purchased land
N
When your child needs heart care, it’s natural to look for a heart program with an excellent reputation. Dell Children’s is the only hospital in Central Texas which is ranked nationally for cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News and World Report. Nationally recognized cardiologists, experienced surgeons caring for the tiniest of patients. Moms and dads, it’s all right here. And that’s something to celebrate. Central Texas’ only nationally ranked pediatric heart program
Find award-winning care at ascension.org/DellChildrens
*U.S. News & World Report 2025-2026 Best Children’s Hospitals list. | © Ascension 2026. All rights reserved.
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY GRACIE WARHURST
Georgetown ocials recommended changing water utility billing to be based more on usage than a xed base charge during a March 10 City Council workshop. This would allow the city to address rising water infrastructure and supply costs, while considering aordability for customers. What it means Under the new plan, low-volume water users would see smaller bill increases by 2030, and high-volume users would experience higher costs based on the new pricing tiers. By implementing billing changes, the city would reduce the total number of increases for the average City considers changes to water utility billing
residential customer and still be able to cover its xed costs, Georgetown Chief Financial Ocer Leigh Wallace said. “When we shift costs to volumetric rates, those are the users that are driving peak demand and our need for infrastructure,” Wallace said. “If we made a change to this policy then the base rates could be increased more gradually, and the volumetric rates could be increased at a more accelerated pace.” Why it matters Right now, residential water rates are projected to increase 9% per year for the next ve years, according to city documents. This is largely due to city water costs—including debt payments, new infrastructure and water procurement—projected to grow from $64.2 million in 2025 to $138 million in 2030, Wallace said. The new policy would increase base charges by 4% each year for the next ve years, and volumetric charges would increase by 14% in the same time frame, according to city documents. “We’re not saying water bills are decreasing, but they will increase at a slower rate,” Wallace said.
Sample water bills The following shows a customer’s estimated bill in 2030 based on how much water they use per month under the current and proposed rates.
$300 $600 $900 $1.2K $1.5K Current rate
Proposed rate
$0
60K
2K
15K
Water usage (gallons)
SOURCE: CITY OF GEORGETOWNCOMMUNITY IMPACT
What they’re saying Council members supported the proposed billing changes because of their focus on aordability, especially for those who use less water. “We’re putting more of the proportion of cost on the higher users and less on the ... folks who are using it just for primarily domestic use,” District 5 council member Kevin Pitts said.
If you’re on Medicare or turning 65 soon, this free webinar will help you understand your supplement options — in plain English, with no pressure. Hosted by Anna Harris Local, Licensed Independent Medicare Broker FREE WEBINAR: Medicare Medigap Plans Made Simple
ONLINE
FREE
Sign up at annaharrisinsurance.com
Anna Harris Licensed Sales Agent Georgetown/Austin Office: 737-315-3660
www.annaharrisinsurance.com | anna@annaharrisinsurance.com We do not oer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans in your area that we do oer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-Medicare to get information on all of your options.
9
GEORGETOWN EDITION
WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX • 2025 PROPERTY TAX DATA REPORT • PAID FOR BY OWNWELL
72% of Williamson County residential properties didn’t protest their 2025 property taxes.
28%
72%
Protested 1
Didn’t Protest 1
70,024
177,582
residential properties
residential properties
$22.1M total missed potential savings
$10.4M total realized savings in 2025
Protestors won 65% of the time in Williamson County1
WHY CHOOSE OWNWELL² 66%
IMPORTANT DATES
deadline for current & retroactive homestead exemption applications April 30, 2026 May 15, 2026
Williamson County 2025 win rate
44% 30,979 of Williamson County residential protested properties chose Ownwell in 2025
Williamson County properties represented by Ownwell in 2025
property tax protest deadline
$744 average annual property tax savings for Ownwell clients in 2025
PROTEST YOUR 2026 PROPERTY TAXES
or visit Ownwell.com/impact to get started today. Enter an address and see how much you’re overpaying →
25%
of your tax bill savings only. No savings? No fee. Guaranteed.
¹ ownwell.com/results/texas-protest-vs-non-protest • ² ownwell.com/insight/austin-area-property-tax-protest-results-agent-performance
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY GRACIE WARHURST
City considers water, wastewater projects Ahead of the scal year 2026-27 budget, Georgetown city sta presented an $857.3 million capital improvement plan for water and wastewa- ter infrastructure at a City Council workshop on March 24. There are 16 proposed projects to construct or rehabilitate water and wastewater infrastructure in FY 2026-27, Systems Engineering Director Wesley Wright said. The big picture City sta requested $441 million for water projects, the majority of which would go toward water procurement. The capital improvement plan includes a $414.3 million initiative to pipe ground- water from a proposed site in Circleville into the Rattlesnake area. “That’s the big dollars for next year for bringing water from the east,” Wright said. Other proposed water projects include replacing meters, rehabilitating water tanks, upgrading or constructing waterlines, improving the Lake Water Treatment Plant, and expanding or replacing the Westside Service Center. Public Wi-Fi coming to Georgetown’s square Williamson County ocials are working to bring public, high-speed internet to community spaces, including Georgetown’s downtown square, according to a March 31 update to commissioners. What residents should know The county is working with the city of Georgetown to launch public Wi-Fi in the square in May, according to county docu- ments. County residents will also be able to enjoy free connectivity at the Williamson County Expo Center in Taylor. Ocials are also in the planning stages for bringing Wi-Fi to Southwest Williamson County Regional Park. The project is funded by $1.5 million in interest from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
GPD to implement license plate readers The Georgetown Police Department will begin using license plate scanner technology from Flock Safety following City Council’s approval March 10. Digging deeper The contract between GPD and Flock includes 10 xed cameras that will capture images of vehicles and store the encrypted data for 30 days, according to city documents. Flock cameras will be installed at “strategic” road locations, Police Chief Cory Tchida said. Images will help identify basic vehicle characteristics like color, make and model, as well as license plate numbers.
Proposed wastewater treatment projects
Construct Three Forks Wastewater Treatment Plant $213M San Gabriel interceptor, lift station and force main $80M
Construct Northlands WWTP $69M Rehabilitate Dove Springs WWTP $45M
SOURCE: CITY OF GEORGETOWNCOMMUNITY IMPACT
What else On the wastewater side, the 2026-27 plan includes $415.5 million for projects, the majority dedicated to work on treatment facilities. The city also included wastewater lines and lift stations improvements, as well as other facility upgrades in the plan. What’s next The projects will still require City Council approval in the upcoming budget before the city can allocate funds to the plan. WilCo ocials adopt updated oodplain map Williamson County commissioners adopted the Atlas 14 Floodplain Mapping Study on March 24, which identies ood-prone areas to guide growth and development in the county, according to county documents. How it works The Atlas 14 study uses updated scientic rainfall data from the National Oceanic and Atmo- spheric Administration, along with topographic information, to help reduce ood risk. Williamson County will use the study for drainage and oodplain management in the county’s unincorporated areas, according to a news release. The Texas Water Development Board accepted the study in 2025, and with recent court approval, the study can be used to regulate the oodplains and enforce permits for encroachment.
“The system does not use facial recognition and is designed specically to identify vehicles connected to criminal activity.” CORY TCHIDA, GEORGETOWN POLICE CHIEF
Williamson County 100-year event precipitation
The county’s 24-hour rainfall range has increased from 8-10 to 10-13 inches. In a worst-case type storm, this is about how much rain could fall in a single day. 10-11 inches 11-12 inches 12-13 inches
Williamson County
35
183
29
95
SOURCE: WILLIAMSON COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT
N
The impact In the past decade, Williamson County has expe- rienced severe ooding, including in 2010, 2015 and 2017. Most recently, deadly oods over the July 4, 2025, weekend devastated parts of the county. The initiative to update countywide oodplain information dates back to 2021. Neighboring Travis County adopted the updated oodplain map in 2019.
11
GEORGETOWN EDITION
LEADERSHIP GEORGETOWN Cong A g AD D ngratula t t t l t lat tion ns Congratulations
• In-o ce Ear Tubes • Balloon Sinuplasty • Inspire Implant for Obstructive Sleep Apnea • Chronic Congestion and Runny Nose • Deviated Septum • Tonsillectomy • & Much More!
CLASS OF 2025-2026 The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Leadership Georgetown program is a dynamic, multi-month experience designed for current and emerging leaders wanting to make a meaningful impact. Step forward. Get involved. Lead Georgetown into the future. Visit www.GeorgetownChamber.org for more details today!
12
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Election
BY GRACIE WARHURST
O cials reevaluate voting procedures for primary runo outlined procedures, Escobedo said. This resulted in delays, missing documentation and longer hours for election workers. One major issue was the 177 ballot bins from the Republican Party that were not properly documented, Escobedo said.
County ocials, party leaders and voters unpacked what went wrong on the March primary election day, and detailed the changes residents can expect when they return to the polls, during a March 24 special meeting called by Williamson County commissioners. What happened Because of the shift to precinct-level voting for the March 3 primary election day, the county had to secure and equip a larger number of polling locations on a shorter timeline. Additionally, both parties struggled to fully sta these locations, Williamson County Elections Administrator Bridgette Escobedo said. Many voters arrived at the wrong location, drove to multiple sites and faced wait times of up to two to three hours, according to multiple accounts from election day voters at the meeting. What else? The parties faced individual challenges on election day that also added to the need for procedural changes. The Republican Party, which chose to use pre- printed and hand-marked paper ballots rather than electronic machines, experienced a ballot supply shortage from their vendor days before the election, Republican Party Chair Michelle Evans said. Furthermore, 50 voters mistakenly cast “feder- al-only” ballots due to a mix of human error and missing ballot activation codes on the electronic machines, ocials said. The outcome The central count process on election night experienced signicant deviations from the
“[Elections] should be accessible,
open and fair. ... We cannot undo what happened on March 3, but we can, and must, make sure it never happens again,” PAUL STEMPKO, DEMOCRATIC PARTY FIRST VICE CHAIR
Many ballots had to be xed by the sta because of irregular markings that would have otherwise been caught by the polling place scanners, Esc- obedo said. “My sta and I spent over 30 hours without sleep on election day and the day after to nish the counting process,” Escobedo said. Additionally, two election judges misplaced 69 Republican ballots into boxes intended for provisional and spoiled ballots, which were not discovered and counted until a week later, accord- ing to previous Community Impact reporting. Conspiracies about intentional election fraud were perpetuated online, including a video Precinct 4 Commissioner Russ Boles said was altered that falsely accused Escobedo of tampering with clocks and ballots. The resulting backlash led to death threats, harassing phone calls and individuals attempting to forcefully enter the elections oce, requiring Escobedo to be sequestered under police escort, she said. “I am appalled,” Boles said. “I don’t know how many generations of Texan I am, but I have lived in Williamson County for 50 years, and this is disgust- ing. I just cannot believe that it is here.” Looking ahead Both local party chairs agreed the outcome of election day stemmed from fundamental changes in how voting was conducted. The Republican
“I am glad I did not have to vote to
canvas this election because I would not have voted to canvas this election.
If we’re doing this for election integrity, this is just—it’s bewildering on every level.”
RUSS BOLES, PRECINCT 4 COMMISSIONER
Party’s switch to precinct-based voting changed how the election was conducted for the rst time since 2013. Both parties have agreed to return to countywide voting for the upcoming primary runo May 26. Voters will be able to vote at any Williamson County polling location, and both parties have agreed to share locations to reduce confusion and share resources. However, the parties will not run a joint election, meaning voters will use two separate lines and check-ins.
Get back in motion • Fractures & injuries • Steroid injections • On-site x-ray • Total joint replacement • Minimally invasive robotic surgery • All ages seen: children to adults Pain or injury to the back, spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, or leg? ARC Orthopedics offers surgical and non-surgical treatment options to get you back on the right track.
Book now at Orthopedics.ARC.clinic
13
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Education
Southwestern University opens welcome center The Dorothy Perry White Welcome Center at Southwestern University is open after two years of construction. University o cials celebrated its opening with a dedication ceremony March 7. The details The welcome center houses several amenities, including an art gallery, a 50-seat theater and several student lounge options. Java City at the Welcome Center o ers students and faculty a new dining option. Southwestern’s o ces of admission and nancial aid, as well as administrative conference rooms and meeting areas, are also housed inside
SUtooerengineering major starting this fall Southwestern University will begin o ering a Bachelor of Science in engineering in the fall 2026 semester, according to a news release. The overview The new engineering program will be housed in the Department of Physics, expanding the department to become the Department of Physics and Engineering, which will have four degree programs. “This is the rst new degree that Southwestern has added in almost 20 years and one that our students have been eagerly asking for.” STEVE ALEXANDER, SOUTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR OF PHYSICS
The newly opened welcome center includes student gathering spaces. (Courtesy Southwestern University)
Southwestern University Dorothy Perry White Welcome Center
188
29
N
the welcome center. In case you missed it
as one of the capital projects. Southwestern has invested $120 million in construction and renova- tion projects to improve the campus, according to a news release.
The Dorothy Perry White Welcome Center was included in the school’s ve-year tactical plan
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY GRACIE WARHURST & CHLOE YOUNG
GISD to replace buses without seat belts Georgetown ISD discussed purchasing 23 new buses for $4.3 million to meet a new state law during its March 30 meeting. Senate Bill 546, passed in 2025, requires all public school buses to have three-point seat belts by September 2029. The gist By August, GISD is expected to have 122 buses in its eet, 99 of which will have three-point seat belts. All current GISD buses used for daily routes have three-point seat belts, said Clint Pruett, GISD executive director of support services. The buses without three-point seat belts are 10-17 years old with an average of 180,000 miles. Due to their age and mileage, GISD is recommending replacing the them for $150,000-$170,00 each.
GISD proposes hiring more behavior sta
General education behavioral sta
Current
Proposed
1 behavior coordinator & 4 behavior coaches
1 behavior coordinator
Georgetown ISD is aiming to better assist teachers in addressing student behavioral issues. At a March 9 board workshop, district o cials discussed hiring 10 new behavior coaches and paraprofessionals. The context GISD elementary teachers have requested more behavior support amid increased behavioral challenges among students in recent years, Superintendent Devin Padavil said. “Students have changed in the last ve years,” Director of Intervention Tamra Marbibi said. “Some of their early formative years where they’re building their communication [and] their ability to read people ... some of those skills are lacking and needing reinforcement in the classroom.”
2 paraprofessionals
8 paraprofessionals
SOURCE: GEORGETOWN ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT
The update GISD o cials have proposed hiring four behav- ior coaches and six additional behavior parapro- fessionals for general education classrooms. The new positions could assist teachers by modeling instruction and o ering advice for responding to students’ behavior during class, Padavil said. GISD may repurpose some current district positions to ll these roles. The district may still see a net increase in expenses, Padavil said.
TO ALL THE SPONSORS, DONORS, AND SUPPORTERS OF ROCK’S 20TH ANNUAL BARN DANCE “IT’S ABOUT TIME” AND YOUR SUPPORT OF ROCK’S MISSION OF HEALING THRU HORSES.
For more information or to donate please scan QR code or visit ROCKride.org.
15
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Education
Ames Elementary Georgetown ISD’s 12th elementary school will be located near East View High School o of Patriot Way and SH 130. Although construction will be complete in late April or early May, the district has delayed opening the school until August 2027 due to slowed enrollment growth and budget-saving measures. • Cost: $66.57 million • Square footage: 124,744 • Capacity: 850 students PHOTOS BY CHLOE YOUNGCOMMUNITY IMPACT 1 Crews are working to set up hallways and classrooms at Ames Elementary. 2 Construction is progressing on the exterior of Ames Elementary. 3 Ames Elementary will have two levels with prekindergarten through second grade on the ground oor and third through fth grade students on the second oor.
1
2
3
29
PATRIOT WAY
Middle School No. 5
Ames Elementary
130 TOLL
N
Honoring the Strength Behind Every Milestone
SCAN to learn what TBCH is all about and how you can help!
Texas Baptist Children’s Home honors moms and young adults who have achieved success and accomplishment during their time in our care through our Celebration of Champions. This Mother’s Day season, we recognize the strength, perseverance, and determination it takes to build a new path forward. Visit our campus and see our work in action! Join us for a campus tour with David Gillian, Director of Development. Experience firsthand how we support our clients and residents every day. Schedule your visit today! Call (512) 246-4286.
1101 N Mays St., Round Rock, TX 78664 | 512-255-3682 | www.tbch.org
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY CHLOE YOUNG
Middle School No. 5 Located on the same plot of land as Ames Elementary, construction on this campus is expected to be complete in late May or early June. Like Ames Elementary, the campus is funded by money approved during the district’s 2024 bond election. • Cost: $106.05 million
4
4 Ames Elementary has a direct view of Middle School No. 5, which is located directly west of it. 5 Jimmy Jones, director of construction and development for Georgetown ISD, gave Community Impact a tour of the ongoing construction of Ames Elementary and Middle School No. 5 in March. 6 Construction is underway on the exterior of Middle School No. 5 and the school’s carpool lane.
• Square footage: 181,574 • Capacity: 950 students
6
5
WANT TO HELP THOSE IN YOUR COMMUNITY? With just a few cents per month, you can do just that.
Better Value. Better Drive. Drive away with competitive rates on your next auto loan.
By rounding up your bill through the
you can make a difference for your neighbors and community. ,
Apply Today rbfcu.org/auto
JOIN TODAY AT MYPEC.COM/CHANGE. Pedernales Electric Cooperative
Membership eligibility required. Subject to credit review and approval. Rates and terms subject to change without notice. Restrictions may apply. RN5029259
17
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Education Private School Guide
2026
Georgetown Christian Academy Type: religious-based Grades served: K-5 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: music, art, physical education, agriculture, taekwondo, pickleball Enrollment: 71 Tuition: $9,088 per year • 3309 Shell Road, Georgetown • www.gcagtx.org
Invictus: An Acton Academy Type: Montessori Grades served: pre-K-8 Extracurricular activities: entrepreneurship focused, hosts a children’s business fair every year Enrollment: 28 Tuition: $1,279 per month for 11 months, $1,000 nonrefundable enrollment fee • 10000 W. Hwy. 29, Georgetown • www.invictusleander.org
Private schools Institutions that are not directly funded by the state, but instead by tuition payments made by families as well as other nonpublic sources. Additionally, they are able to create their own curriculum and enrollment requirements. Charter schools In Texas, charter schools are tuition-free, open- enrollment institutions, but are subject to fewer state laws than traditional public schools, according to the Texas Education Agency.
Grace Academy Type: classical, religious-based Grades served: K-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: mock trial, art, National Honor Society, football, basketball, cross country, track, volleyball Enrollment: 370 Grace Episcopal School Type: religious-based Grades served: preschool-K Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: athletic program Wednesdays Enrollment: 68 Tuition: $385-$505 per month • 1314 E. University Ave., Georgetown • www.graceschool1992.org Tuition: $11,690-$13,850 per year • 225 Grace Blvd., Georgetown • www.gracetx.org GT School Type: gifted and talented Grades served: K-8 Extracurricular activities: quiz bowl, math competition teams, chess Enrollment: 30 Tuition: $25,000 per year • 2351 Westinghouse Road, Georgetown • www.gt.school
St. Helen Catholic School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: Catholic
Extracurricular activities: cross country, basketball, volleyball, ag football, soccer, track, chess club Enrollment: 200 Tuition: $8,200 per year • 2700 E. University Ave., Georgetown • www.shcslions.org
Private schools
Cantera Montessori School of Silicon Valley Type: Montessori Ages served: 6 weeks-6 years Extracurricular activities: art, cooking, STEM, gardening, soccer, music, gymnastics Enrollment: 84
Zion Lutheran School Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-8 Religious orientation: Lutheran
Tuition: $1,440-$1,730 per month • 4400 W. Hwy. 29, Georgetown • https://msosv.com/cantera
Extracurricular activities: sports programs through the Austin Christian Athletic Association, chess, an academic competition team, archery, band Enrollment: 250 Tuition: $9,240 per year
Divine Savior Academy Type: religious-based Grades served: pre-K-12 Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: sports, music, art, drama, clubs, student council, National Honor Society Enrollment: 364 Tuition: $13,695-$17,880 per year • 23857 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Liberty Hill • https://santaritaranch.divinesavioracademy.com
• 6101 FM 1105, Georgetown • www.zionwalburg.org/school
Charter schools
Gateway College Preparatory School Grades served: K-12 Extracurricular activities: 4A UIL athletics, academics and ne arts Enrollment: 1,650
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY JESSICA MCLAREN, JILLIAN NACHTIGAL & GRACIE WARHURST
• 3360 Westinghouse Road, Georgetown • www.gatewaycps.org
Gateway Tech High School Grades served: 9-12 (half-day accelerated and credit recovery program) Extracurricular activities: students can participate in Gateway College Preparatory School extracurriculars Enrollment: 45 (a.m.), 45 (p.m.) • 2951 Williams Drive, Bldg. 2, Georgetown • www.gatewayhs.org Goodwater Montessori School Grades served: Pre-K3-5 Extracurricular activities: chess club, STEM program, gymnastics Enrollment: 300 Harmony Science Academy-Georgetown Grades served: Pre-K-6 Extracurricular activities: STEM clubs, sports clubs, academic clubs, art clubs, after-school care Enrollment: 550 • 201 Blue Ridge Drive, Georgetown • https://hsageorgetown.harmonytx.org This list is not comprehensive. • 710 Stadium Drive, Georgetown • www.goodwatermontessori.org
Cornerstone Classical School Type: hybrid, religious-based Grades served: pre-K-9 (adding 10th grade next year, 11th and 12th grades coming soon) Religious orientation: Christian Extracurricular activities: student clubs, community events Enrollment: 115
Community Montessori School Type: Montessori Grades served: pre-K-8 Extracurricular activities: chess, coding, sports, science camps, art Enrollment: about 200 Tuition: $13,750-$14,750 per year • 500 Pleasant Valley Drive, Georgetown • www.community-montessori.org
Tuition: $4,745-$6,145 per month • 302 Serenada Drive, Georgetown • www.cscstx.com
Education for Life
START A CONVERSATION WITH US TODAY 737.225.6497 | GRANDLIVING.COM LUMINATIONS ® Memory Care
A Montessori School 18 months - 15 years ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN!
Compassionate & Crafted Care
Purposeful Living Activities
Safe, Home-Like Environment
BRING THIS AD FOR
YOUR 2026–2027 APPLICATION 20% OFF
(512) 863-7920 • community-montessori.org 500 Pleasant Valley Dr, Georgetown TX 78626
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY # 308430
19
GEORGETOWN EDITION
Transportation
BY GRACIE WARHURST
Contractor notied to repair defective work on Austin Avenue
Georgetown City Council authorized o cials to send a notice of default to contractor Cekra Inc. for defective work on the Austin Avenue bridge reha- bilitation project and demand repairs, according to a city update March 26. What happened Georgetown o cials discovered water pooling on the Austin Avenue vehicular bridge as a result of poor contractor work, the update states. The project engineer outlined the corrective actions needed for the contractor to review, but the contractor did not o er a solution in a “timely manner,” according to the city. About the project Construction began on the Austin Avenue bridge rehabilitation project in October 2024, almost a decade after the city rst identi ed structural issues resulting from deterioration and increased tra c in the area.
W.MORROW S
Austin Avenue bridge rehabilitation
2NDST.
The Austin Avenue bridge project has stalled after water pooling and contractor issues.
N
The $12.7 million project, funded by the 2021 voter-approved mobility bond, aims to address the structural repairs, as well as safety upgrades and drainage improvements. The city previously projected the project would be completed this spring.
What they’re saying “We cannot provide any additional details as we work through the contractual issues with the contractor,” the update states. “Once a resolution is reached, the city will provide more details on the timeline for completing the ... project.”
Protecting You, Your Business & Your Family Call Us Today! 512-409-3342 ringelbrymerlaw.com 715 Chestnut Street, Bastrop, TX 78602
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY GRACIE WARHURST
New portion of Southwestern Boulevard open to drivers
258
183
Future Legacy Ranch High School
Georgetown bonds. “It is an important connection for us on the southern side of Georgetown, and it’s also a critical connection for Williamson County,” City Manager David Morgan said at the ceremony. The why The new road segment will allow access to the new Williamson County administration building, which is currently under construction.
The Southwestern Boulevard project, which constructed a two-lane road from Raintree Drive to Southeast Inner Loop in Georgetown, is complete. About the project This half-mile segment of Southwestern Boulevard has two lanes with a center turn lane and right-turn lanes at intersections. The project also included utility work and curbs. The $3.5 million project was funded by voter-approved Williamson County and city of
LEGACY RANCH DRIVE
N
Legacy Ranch Drive expansion begins Williamson County ocials marked the start of a $1.5 million project to expand Leg- acy Ranch Drive in Liberty Hill on March 6. Find out more Located near Liberty Hill ISD’s upcoming Legacy Ranch High School—which will serve students living along Hwy. 29 and Ronald Reagan Boulevard—the expanded road will have two lanes in each direction, new trac signals and right-turn lanes into the school.
RAINTREE DR.
City and county ocials celebrated Southwestern Boulevard’s opening with a ribbon-cutting March 18.
N
Applications are open for new and returning students as well as in and out-of-district transfers
21
GEORGETOWN EDITION
15600 Texas HWY 29 Liberty Hill TX 78642 | 737-777-8101 | Power@texast.us
LIVE BETTER • LIVE WISER • LIVE MORE FULFILLED
Free Monthly Seminars for Seniors
May 14th Topic: Eat Smart, Age Strong: Nutrition That Supports Healthy Aging
10:00AM -11:30AM
Limited Seating • Register Today
MCKINNEY CHRISTIAN MINISTRY CENTER • FIRST METHODIST CHURCH CAMPUS 1205 ASH STREET GEORGETOWN 512-862-7339 WWW.SENIORSLIVINGSMARTER.COM/SEMINAR
The place for Celebrat in
April is festival season in Georgetown. The month is capped off with the City’s premier festival. Celebrate community, Georgetown, and the fabulous flowers at the 27th annual Red Poppy Festival on April 24-26. Keep up to date with event information at Georgetowntexas.gov .
#LoveWhereYouLive |
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY GRACIE WARHURST
Upcoming projects
SYCAMORE ST.
SERENADA DR.
35
5
JIM HOGG RD.
1 Williams Drive Project: The city project will construct medians with turn lanes on Williams Drive from I-35 to Serenada Drive, including a shared-use path on the north side of Williams Drive, a new waterline, and street lighting from DB Wood Road to Jim Hogg Road and Serenada Drive to I-35. Update: The project’s design is complete, and o cials anticipate it to go out to bid in late April. • Timeline: 2023-27 • Cost: $18.6 million • Funding sources: city of Georgetown, trafic impact fees, federal grants, tax increment inancing 2 SE Inner Loop Project: A 2.91-mile stretch of SE Inner Loop will be widened to a four-lane, divided road from Hwy. 29 to FM 1460. A shared-use path for pedestrians and bicycles will be added on one side. Update: The city is in the process of acquiring the right- of-way needed for the project. Design is complete and o cials anticipate it to go out to bid in July. • Timeline: 2022-28 • Cost: $70.6 million • Funding sources: city of Georgetown, Georgetown Transportation Enhancement Corporation 3 Hwy. 29 West Project: The Texas Department of Transportation will construct additional travel lanes, lengthen turn lanes and improve tra c signals on Hwy. 29 from Wolf Ranch Parkway to I-35 as well as add shared-use paths. Update: TxDOT is expected to begin construction in September. • Timeline: 2023-27 • Cost: $12.31 million • Funding source: Georgetown Transportation Enhancement Corporation 4 Austin Avenue pedestrian bridges Project: This project will include construction of two pedestrian and bicycle bridges crossing the San Gabriel River, east of the existing Austin Avenue vehicular bridges. Update: The revised design is tentatively scheduled to be complete in July 2027.
SHELL RD.
LAKEWAY DR.
LAKE GEORGETOWN
OAK RIDGE RD.
1
SAN GABRIEL RIVER
DB WOOD RD.
RIVERY BLVD.
130 TOLL
WOLF RANCH PKWY.
UNIVERSITY PARK DR.
4
7
3
AUSTIN AVE.
29
29
SE INNER LOOP
35
SOUTHWEST BYPASS
SOUTHWESTERN BLVD.
ROCKRIDE LN.
1460
6
2
SAM HOUSTON AVE.
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
• Timeline: 2023-TBD • Cost: $21 million • Funding sources: city of Georgetown, developer fees 5 Shell Road Project: The city will widen Shell Road from Williams Drive to Sycamore Street to four lanes with a raised median, shared-use path, and left- and right-turn lanes. Update: As of March, crews were working on utility installation for waterlines and storm water, and o cials anticipate project completion in December 2027.
left-turn lane and a 10-foot-wide shared-use path along one side from SE Inner Loop to Sam Houston Avenue. Update: The city expects substantial construction to be complete by the end of September. • Timeline: 2022-26 • Cost: $12 million • Funding source: city of Georgetown 7 DB Wood Road Phase 1 Project: The project adds four 12-foot wide lanes, a center turn lane and a 10-foot shared-use path from Hwy. 29 to Oak Ridge Road. Update: All roads will be open for tra c in May, with substantial completion planned for July.
• Timeline: 2022-27 • Cost: $18.17 million • Funding source: city of Georgetown
• Timeline: 2023-26 • Cost: $29.6 million • Funding source: city of Georgetown
Ongoing projects
6 Rockride Lane Project: This work will upgrade Rockride Lane to a two-lane collector roadway with a continuous center
23
GEORGETOWN EDITION
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 24-25 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 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48Powered by FlippingBook