Lake Travis - Westlake Edition | May 2024

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 15, ISSUE 4 MAY 18JUNE 20, 2024

Jennifer Lyon, Lake Travis ISD director of health and social emotional learning, led around 50 students and sta at Lake Travis High School in a kindness initiative in March to promote a supportive and welcoming culture on campus.

COURTESY LAKE TRAVIS ISD

Districts balance state, local policies in response to bullying

is a problem they’re actively trying to solve. “We are trying to address bullying,” said Molly May, assistant superintendent of curriculum, instruc- tion and assessment for EISD. “It is a challenge, and it’s not something that the schools can do alone.”

legal denition of bullying. The dilemma has brought attention to the state standards school districts must follow in addressing bullying reports and the local processes parents must follow if displeased with a district’s ruling. District ocials with LTISD and Eanes ISD have said bullying

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Lake Travis ISD’s response to an alleged bullying incident in October has resulted in a $1.5 million lawsuit against the district, inciting disputes between a former LTISD parent, the district and the Texas Education Agency about whether the event met the

CONTINUED ON 26

Also in this issue

Impacts: Medical spa for men coming soon (Page 8)

Government: Cities seek to regulate game rooms (Page 10)

Development: Work begins on West Lake Hills City Hall (Page 24)

Dining: Vivel Crepes serves up sweet, savory options (Page 31)

Epilepsy care that keeps you in control.

You have the power to live life on your terms. And our board-certified epileptologists are by your side with the care you need close to home. We’ll work together to create a plan and guide your next steps toward better seizure control.

Welcome, Victor Montoya, MD

Now taking new patients. Schedule an appointment 866.330.3060

Welcome, Diego Tovar, MD

BSWHealth.com/NeuroHealth

200 Medical Parkway | Lakeway, TX 78738

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

25% SOLD! RESERVE YOUR HOMESITE TODAY

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

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

WHO YOU WORK WITH MATTERS

FEATURED LISTINGS

19204 SECRETARIAT - $3,499,900

822 SERENE ESTATES - $1,449,999

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.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

SPRING SALE EVENT MAY 16 TH - 28 TH

HOME FURNISHINGS I HOME DÉCOR I OUTDOOR LIVING I DESIGN SERVICES

DOMAIN NORTHSIDE AUSTIN Next to Perry’s Steakhouse 512.520.1740 I tbfurnitureaustin.com

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST AUSTIN’S LUXURY REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS The Drewett family, Texas natives and deeply rooted in family values, have called Austin home for over three decades. The Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. Drewett Group proudly stands as a pinnacle in Austin’s real estate scene focused on luxury homes, lakefront properties, land and investments. This distinction is exemplified through their enduring relationships, private networks, exclusive memberships, and their profound understanding of both the local and luxury real estate markets. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients. Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST

YOUR NEIGHBOR AND BARTON CREEK SPECIALIST

Beth provides concierge-level service to sellers, skillfully navigating the intricacies of the luxury home selling experience, and always striving to secure the best outcome for her clients.

3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES

2701 MARAVILLAS COVE WOODS I | Pool & park-like backyard

Barton Creek - 8324 Calera Drive $3,795,000 | 4 bed | 4.5 bath | 4,473 SF | 1.04 AC

3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE THE ESTATES | Traditional gem with garage apartment

REALTOR ®

2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES

REALTOR ® REALTOR ® REALTOR ® REALTOR ®

Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com

hello

Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com

neighbor

I Live Here | I Work Here | I Get Results

8507 CHALK KNOLL DRIVE WOODS II | Golf course & views

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. All asurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, counting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. 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. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. 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. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity. 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. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage. Compass is a licensed real estate broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.

8507 CHALK KNOLL DR 5 BED | 5.5 BATH | 6,603 SQFT | .81 ACRES

YOUR AUSTIN LUXURY LISTING SPECIALIST

Beth offers unparalleled white glove service to luxury buyers and sellers, confidently navigating the complexities of high stakes transactions, and always striving to secure the best deal for her clients.

3405 WINDING CREEK DRIVE 4 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,323 SQFT | 1.49 ACRES

Westlake – 603 Westwood Terrace $2,425,000 | 4 Bed | 4.5 Baths | 3,374 SF | .35 AC

#3 TEAM

2701 MARAVILLAS COVE 5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,693 SQFT | 1.31 ACRES

REALTOR ®

Beth@DrewettRealEstate.com 512.576.6222 DrewettRealEstate.com

Patton Drewett Jr. 512.554.4299 Patton@DrewettRealEstate.com REALTOR®

Natalie Drewett 512.971.8820 Natalie@DrewettRealEstate.com REALTOR®

Hayes Drewett 512.284.6252 Hayes@DrewettRealEstate.com REALTOR®

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.

Don’t miss local dining updates

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Kameryn Griesser Sarah Hernandez Parks Kugle Katy McAfee Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Rachal Elliott Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia

Taylor Caranfa Stover General Manager tstover@ communityimpact.com

Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Art Production Manager Haley Grace Publisher Travis Baker

Grace Dickens Editor gdickens@ communityimpact.com

Jacqueline Harris Account Executive jharris@ communityimpact.com

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

16225 Impact Way, 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

BREAK SOMETHING? GET QUICK RELIEF. Next Level Urgent Care has convenient locations throughout the Austin area!

Open 9am – 9pm 7 days a week nextlevelurgentcare.com Scan the QR code to download our app.

Next Level Urgent Care is right in your neighborhood and provides fast, affordable quality care. We treat all ages, including newborns, and offer extended hours on nights and weekends. DOWNLOAD OUR NEW APP, LOADED WITH LOTS OF HELPFUL FEATURES INCLUDING A CHAT OPTION!

LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION

PARK

2769

Impacts

THURMAN BEND DR.

LAKE TRAVIS

620

2222

2769

RIVER PLACE BLVD.

STEINER RANCH BLVD.

Lakeway

BEE CREEK RD.

620

EMMA LONG PARK

360

COMMONS FORD RANCH

West Lake Hills

408

620

VISTA RIDGE

409

Bee Cave

BARTON CREEK HABITAT PRESERVE

Rollingwood

MAP NOT TO SCALE

MOPAC

4 Stream Wealth Partners The financial planning and asset management service provider opened its new headquarters in Lakeway. The firm offers financial planning services such as wealth management, estate planning and more. • Opened in April

Montgomery. Smith said he specializes in personalized, results-orientated chiropractic care. • Opened April 1

Now open

1 Cedarwood Financial Partners The wealth management practice provides investment advice and portfolio management to individuals, families and businesses. • Opened early 2024 • 1310 S. RM 620, Ste. B195, Room 1, Austin • www.cedarwoodfinancialpartners.com 2 Lake Travis Chiropractic The clinic is run by Ryan Smith, who has served the area for 15 years, and his longtime clinic director Andrea

• 1700 N. RM 620, Ste. 108, Austin • www.laketravischiropractor.com

3 Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark The seasonal waterpark is open on weekends until May 27, when it will open Tuesday through Sunday for the rest of the season. Tickets provide access to the park’s four water slides, Pirate Ship Splash Zone and more. • Opened April 27 • 16107 FM 2769, Ste. D, Leander • www.volentebeach.com

• 103 S. RM 620, Lakeway • www.streamwealth.com

Coming soon

5 TexArts Theatre & Academy Previously located at 2300 Lohmans Spur, Ste. 160,

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 GRACE DICKENS & KAMERYN GRIESSER

Lakeway, the nonprofit will open in a larger location that allows the organization to produce more shows and increase academy programming. For information on the June opening show “Anything Goes,” visit Page 31. • Opening in June • 1110 RM 620 S., Lakeway • www.tex-arts.org 6 Frontier Infusion Center The medical infusion center will treat over 50 conditions by administering medicine directly into a patient’s bloodstream through an IV. • Opening in late May • 6611 River Place Blvd., Ste. 305, Austin • www.frontierinfusioncenter.com 7 Flycatcher A new medical spa geared toward men will begin offering non-invasive aesthetic treatments to Spicewood with services such as laser hair removal, skin tightening and treatments targeting sun damage, age lines and acne. • Opening in the fall • 18217 Hwy. 71, Ste. B200, Spicewood • www.flycatcher.men 8 Travis Club Golf Course Officials broke ground April 23 on an 18-hole golf course at Travis Club, a 1,500-acre master-planned community under construction in Spicewood. • Opening in late 2025 • Located off Bee Creek Road and Thurman Bend Drive • www.travisclubaustin.com 9 Lash and Company The Colorado-based franchise will offer lash and brow services, as well as cosmetic injectables, laser hair removal and tanning treatments. • Opening in July • 12701 Hill Country Blvd., Bldg. O, Ste. 110, Bee Cave • www.lashandcompany.com 10 Perspire Sauna Studio The new Hill Country Galleria location will have 10 private infrared sauna rooms, each with red light therapy, color therapy and televisions, according to owners Pete and Lindsay Mittelholzer.

• Opening in October • 13500 Galleria Circle, Ste. 110, Bee Cave • www.perspiresaunastudio.com

Coming soon

Relocations

11 A New Day Childhood Development Center

The Spicewood preschool plans to move into a new, larger building on the same road. The old location at 5014 Bee Creek Road will close the same month the new one opens. • Relocating in July • 4828 Bee Creek Road, Spicewood • www.anewdaycdc.com

mushroom crepes. The San Marcos location will remain open. • Closed in late April • 3663 Bee Caves Road, West Lake Hills • www.bluedahliabistro.com 16 Summer Moon Coffee A company representative confirmed that after six years of business, the owner decided not to renew the lease. Other locations in Steiner Ranch and Cedar Park will remain open, serving the shop’s signature oak-roasted coffee drinks and pastries. • Closed in April • 8300 N. RM 620, Ste. 300G, Austin • www.summermooncoffee.com 15 Nothing Bundt Cakes The dessert bakery is setting up shop in Bee Cave in the Shops at the Galleria. The location is owned by Brittany Jeffery, who also owns the Westlake location. The business offers bundt cakes in a variety of flavors and sizes as well as a selection of retail items, including party supplies, decor and gifts. • Opening in June • 13011 Shops Parkway, Ste. 500, Bee Cave • www.nothingbundtcakes.com

Expansions

12 Iron Wolf Ranch & Distillery The distillery celebrated the opening of The Den, a second building on the property offering an indoor lounge and bar alongside a new stage. • Opened in May • 101 Co. Road 409, Spicewood • www.ironwolfranch.com

In the news

13 Nike Running Studio The athletic brand has plans to debut a boutique fitness studio at the Hill Country Galleria in September, according to a filing with the Texas Department for Licensing and Regulation. The studio will offer classes to build endurance and strength, according to its website. • 12800 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. G-110, Bee Cave • www.nikestudios.com

Closings

14 Blue Dahlia Bistro The Westlake location closed after over a decade of service in the area. Blue Dahlia offered an array of diverse dishes such as crab cake eggs benedict and savory

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

Government

BY KAMERYN GRIESSER

Cities seek to regulate game rooms, sweepstakes machines

By utilizing exceptions in the state law, sweep- stakes machines have gained popularity as an entertainment option among bars, restaurants and game rooms in the Austin metro. Now, following the lead of other cities throughout the state, Lakeway and Hutto are taking action to regulate them. The context Despite bearing resemblance to gambling devices—which are illegal in Texas—state law regard- ing sweepstakes machines has been carved out by various state court rulings over the years. This has left open the possibility for their legality, granted the primary purpose of the transaction is to receive a product or give a donation—not to play a game. Chere Proler, the owner of Spinners Gameroom in Lakeway, said she sells prepaid phone cards which allow patrons to play the machines. “You’re paying for a product and then the game is just entertainment,” said Proler, who opened the game room in 2017. What ocials are saying State law allows cities and counties to regulate game room establishments through zoning and permitting. On March 18, the city of Lakeway passed an ordinance which created a special use permit for game rooms. “Before, we were requiring them to get a special use permit under the auspices of an arcade,” Lake- way City Manager Joseph Molis said. “That’s a bit of an antiquated model that we didn’t think was neces- sarily applicable to these types of environments.” The ordinance also limits the number of game room permits in the city, their proximity to other game rooms, and their distance from community centers such as churches and schools. Molis said the ordinance will allow Lakeway ocials to keep track of the existing establishments and their activities. A Lakeway resident for over 30 years, Proler said she welcomes more regulation and clear direction from the city in hopes that it will reduce the nega- tive stigma surrounding game rooms. “It’ll keep ri ra out,” Proler said. “We live in a nice clean city. We want to keep it that way. We don’t want a whole city full of game rooms.” Molis said the city is only aware of three game room establishments currently operating in the Lakeway area. Following Lakeway’s ruling in March, ocials in the city of Hutto passed a similar ordinance in May that goes a step further by clarifying that true

At the Lucky Hippo game room in Hutto, patrons can give donations to play on the sweepstakes machines.

COURTESY LUCKY HIPPO

sweepstakes machines are not illegal gambling devices and outlining a procedure for regular inspections. John Montgomery, owner of Hutto’s Lucky Hippo game room, said he is in support of local eorts to regulate the game rooms, and is hopeful they can change public perception of the businesses as crime-riddled, dark and secretive. “We don’t want to be a stigma on the community,” Montgomery said. “That’s why we go and talk to elected ocials and law enforcement—because we don’t want to rue feathers.” The bigger picture Ocials from Lakeway and Hutto conrmed the reason for the new ordinance has to do with the Texas Supreme Court’s refusal to review a case pertaining to the legality of certain game room machines in December. According to the Texas Municipal League, a legal research organization for municipal governments, the previous ruling of the lower appellate courts has given cities more leverage to dene the terms of a legal loophole called the “fuzzy animal exception.” While the Texas Penal Code denes gambling as any game of chance that, for a payment, aords the player a prize of value, the fuzzy animal exception is intended to allow children’s games, like those at Chuck E. Cheese, to award the player noncash prizes of a limited value. Game rooms use this loophole to oer

What are sweepstakes machines?

While details vary across operators and devices, the basic principles of sweepstakes machines tend to be the same, according to legal experts with the Texas Municipal League:

Winning entries claim either a noncash prize or redeem points for cash at the counter. sweepstakes entries; game outcomes are predetermined, requiring no skill or chance. Points are used to play casino- style games that reveal winning A patron donates, purchases a product or completes an in-person request and receives “points” for each sweepstakes entry.

SOURCE: TEXAS MUNICIPAL LEAGUECOMMUNITY IMPACT

redeemable gift certicates that can be cashed out, TML representative Amber McKeon-Mueller said in a statement. For this reason, many still believe game room machines operate within a legal gray area. In recent years, state lawmakers have introduced several bills to regulate or legalize gambling devices, but many of them have failed. If legislation to amend the constitution passes in the legislative ses- sion, voters get the nal say in November elections.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HANNAH NORTON

Federal courts have so far blocked a Texas law that would allow police officers to arrest people they suspect are in the country illegally. State lawmakers passed Senate Bill 4 in November with support from Gov. Greg Abbott and other top Texas Republicans, who have said the law is necessary to curb an “invasion” at the border by migrants and drug cartels. The Biden administration, El Paso County and several immigrant advocacy groups later sued Texas, arguing the controversial law undermines the federal government’s ability to enforce immigration restrictions and harms relations with foreign countries. Divisive Texas immigration law caught in courts

Senate Bill 4 timeline

What happened

2023

Dec. 19: El Paso County, two immigrant rights groups sue Texas over SB 4 Nov. 14: Texas lawmakers pass SB 4

Texas officials are currently prohibited from enforcing SB 4 after a series of whiplash court rulings in March. At a March 20 hearing before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, Texas Solicitor General Aaron Lloyd Nielson argued the state has “a right to defend itself” against record illegal border crossings. “SB 4 is a modest but important statute,” Niel- son said. “It’s modest because it mirrors federal law; it’s important because it helps address what even the president has called a border crisis.” The law briefly took effect March 19 under a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, but it was blocked a few hours later. The 5th Circuit Court ruled March 26 that SB 4 would not take effect amid an ongoing legal battle. The appeals court heard additional oral argu- ments April 3 but did not issue another ruling before press time.

2024

Jan. 3: U.S. Department of Justice sues Texas over SB 4. The suits were later combined. Feb. 29: U.S. District Judge David Ezra temporarily blocks SB 4 March 1: 5th Circuit Court overturns Ezra’s ruling, allows SB 4 to take effect March 10 March 4-18: U.S. Supreme Court pauses SB 4 as justices deliberate the case March 19: SB 4 effective under Supreme Court; 5th Circuit Court later blocks law March 20: 5th Circuit Court holds last-minute virtual hearing on SB 4 March 26: 5th Circuit Court upholds Ezra’s ruling, keeping SB 4 blocked April 3: 5th Circuit Court hears oral arguments during in-person hearing in New Orleans

SOURCES: 5TH U.S. CIRCUIT COURT OF APPEALS, U.S. DISTRICT COURT FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF TEXAS, U.S. SUPREME COURT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Breaking down the law

Senate Bill 4 would give Texas officials unprecedented power to enforce immigration restrictions and deport migrants.

Looking ahead

State and local law enforcement could arrest migrants suspected of crossing the Texas-Mexico border. Those arrested could face six months in jail or a $2,000 fine. Repeat offenders could face felony charges. Judges could deport migrants by ordering them to return to Mexico, regardless of their nationality.

“Nevertheless, under Texas law they would be removed to Mexico. The United States would have no voice in the matter.” Mexican officials have said they will not accept deportations from Texas. Once the 5th Circuit Court issues another ruling, the case may return to the Supreme Court.

If SB 4 takes effect, Texas judges would have “unilateral power” to order undocumented migrants to cross into Mexico without input from federal immigration officials, Chief Judge Priscilla Richman of the 5th Circuit wrote in the March 26 ruling. “A large number of noncitizens who crossed into Texas from Mexico are not citizens or residents of Mexico,” the order reads.

We empower YOU as you work toward your financial goals. START PLANNING YOUR FUTURE! (512) 879-9606 | Chris.Coffin@lplfinancial.com

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

YOUR ONLY LOCAL SHUTTER MANUFACTURER FOR OVER 31 YEARS Mention this ad to SAVE 10 %

FACTORY DIRECT PRICING

Call now to schedule a free in-home consultation! 512-931-0400 0 % Financing Available

3415 Williams Drive, #140, Georgetown • www.SouthernShuttersAustin.com

Lower your property taxes with Texas Protax Experts working to get you the property tax reduction you deserve taxes with Texas Protax Experts working to get you the property tax reduction you deserve

Your Texas property tax experts, helping you lower your property tax bill for 35 years URGENT! The deadline to file your protest is May 15, 2024. Sign-up today and let us help lower your property taxes.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON, GRACE DICKENS & HALEY MCLEOD

Samsung Electronics signed a preliminary agreement with the U.S. Department of Commerce on April 15, receiving $6.4 billion in government subsidies in exchange for an estimated $45 billion total investment within the region surrounding the Taylor manufacturing plant under construction and existing North Austin facility. The proposed investment will support the creation of more than 20,000 jobs over the next ve years, according to a news release. The funding will develop future generations of industry-leading technologists and engineers, said Lael Brainard, White House national economic advisor. In addition to a fabrication plant and packaging facility, the project will invest funds into an expansion of the Samsung facility in North Austin. Samsung's $45B investment

Industry leaders Texas and California have the two largest semiconductor industries in the nation, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association. For 2022:

Some context

Texas is known as the birthplace of the semicon- ductor chip, a product that revolutionized modern technology by allowing devices such as phones to become small enough and fast enough to integrate into everyday life, per the Oce of the Texas Governor. Accordingly, Texas has led the nation in semiconductor exports in the United States for the last decade. The federal funding—from the Creating Help- ful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors and Science Act signed into eect in 2022—will help expand Samsung’s footprint in Taylor to include an advanced packaging facility, a research and devel- opment center, and a second fabrication plant. The federal legislation was signed with the intent to strengthen manufacturing and supply chains in America, with the goal to produce 20% of the world’s leading-edge logic chips by 2030, according to a news release. The April announce- ment marks the nal string of CHIPS and Science Act grants from the White House.

Texas

California

Number of workers Amount in exports

43,800

63,300

$22 billion

$11.3 billion

SOURCE: SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

“Williamson County has become a world leader in developing an ecosystem for the

semiconductor industry. Its impact will be felt for generations to come.” BILL GRAVELL, WILLIAMSON COUNTY JUDGE

Investing in tech

Put in perspective

in government subsidies awarded

to Samsung $6.4B

semiconductor industry, including a master’s degree program oering a major in semiconductor science and engineering, and a new partnership with ACC and the Texas Institute for Electronics to create a semiconductor training center. Over a quarter of existing positions in Texas require a graduate degree and one-third of the work- force is expected to retire within the next decade, according to a 2023 report from the Semiconductor Industry Association.

To support the largest semiconductor industry in the U.S., the recent federal and Samsung invest- ments will also help build a local workforce with educational programs. “It will build on Samsung’s proven record of workforce engagement in Texas, including robust partnerships with local education institutions like Austin Community College,” Brainard said. Similarly, The University of Texas announced in March and April programs to support the growing

total Samsung investment in

Taylor and Central Texas $45B

jobs created in construction and manufacturing over ve years 20K

facilities to be added in Taylor under new investment

SOURCES: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, WILLIAMSON COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Looking forward

What’s next?

CHIPS Act signed into law

2022

Construction on Production Facility 1 begins Production Facility 1 to become operational in July Production Facility 1 to be available for full-scale production Production Facility 2 with research center and packaging facility operational

than where we started because all articial intelligence is run on and trained on by chips,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. Raimondo highlighted the impressive scale of the initial fabrication facility under construction in Taylor, which spans an area equivalent to 11 full-size football elds. With the addition of CHIPS funding, the Taylor site will have two facilities of this size.

The investments from the U.S. Department of Commerce and Samsung indicate plans to build a cluster of semiconductor factories in Central Texas. Samsung will also use the funding for facility expansion in Austin. Over two dozen suppliers have already committed to the coming to the region, according to White House senior administration ocials. “All of this, of course, is more important

2024

2026

2027

2028

Austin Samsung facility expansion to begin

SOURCE: U.S. WHITE HOUSECOMMUNITY IMPACT

LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION

FRAMING SERVICES

�� OFF THROUGH FEBRUARY ��, �� 20% OFF THROUGH JUNE 30, 2024

DROP OFF AND PICK UP AT EITHER OF OUR LOCATIONS, OR CONTACT US TO SCHEDULE A DESIGN CONSULTATION. WCC.ART/FRAMING

�� FITZHUGH RD #�� DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX �� | ��.��.�� W �TH ST, # �� AUSTIN, TX �� | ��.��.��

• Follow your local water provider’s rules • Incorporate drought-tolerant plants that can handle once-a-week watering • Add mulch to landscapes and compost to turf to help prevent water loss COMES FROM LAKES BUCHANAN AND TRAVIS Help preserve our region’s primary water supply during this severe drought WATER

MAKE CONSERVATION A WAY OF LIFE

Visit www.WaterSmart.org for more water-saving tips and rebates.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY KAMERYN GRIESSER & KATY MCAFEE

Rollingwood reveals plans to revamp Bee Caves Road corridor

Area officials urge wildfire prevention With a hot, dry summer approaching in Central Texas, local leaders are urging residents to prevent wildfires. Mayor Kirk Watson, Travis County Judge Andy Brown and emergency personnel gathered May 6 to share prevention tips and safety measures. What the experts say Brown and Watson gave the following tips for preventing wildfires: • Never throw lit cigarettes on the ground or out of a car window • Do not drag trailer chains • Avoid parking on or driving through tall, dry grass, especially during a drought • Be cautious with outdoor activities that could cause sparks

Corridor land use In the coming months, council will act on rezoning corridor parts from “office” to “commercial” to allow for a broader range of uses. Residential 69%

Office 14% Retail 8% Civic 4% Parks 3% Vacant 2%

The city of Rollingwood unveiled a new incen- tive program April 25 to encourage redevelopment along Bee Caves Road to allow for more restaurant and retail options. In a nutshell Rollingwood Community Development Corporation President Colin Harvey said redevel- oping the corridor would generate vital sales tax revenue for the city’s growth. While the south side of the road has had success attracting large retailers, the north side has struggled, Harvey said. “We really need to engage with developers and investors directly, like they don’t really even know who we are,” Harvey said.

Total land use

WALSH TARLTON LN.

MOPAC

BEE CAVES RD.

SOURCE: CITY OF ROLLINGWOOD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What’s next Changes are likely within the next five to 10 years, Harvey said.

Lakeway eyes land for possible residential project The city of Lakeway has set its sights on 5.4 acres of land near H-E-B and the Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation for a new residential site plan. The background homes and 18 multifamily townhomes. The land has been zoned for commercial use

since 2006, but it has remained undeveloped due to its location and large retailers nearby, Lakeway City Manager Joseph Molis said. What they decided A final decision was postponed until June to work out details within the PUD.

620

At an April 15 meeting, City Council considered a planned unit development proposal for a medi- um-density housing project, with 30 single-family

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

Education

LTISD considers creating workforce housing The Lake Travis ISD board of trustees discussed forming a public facility corporation to offer rent- and income-restricted housing to district staff at an April 17 meeting. The overview By establishing a public facility corporation, which would be governed by the board of trustees, LTISD could own and lease a property to a developer who would build and run the multifamily housing development. The PFC would provide a 100% property and sales tax exemption to the developer under the condition that over 60% of units were reserved for residents making under 80% of the area median income of $126,000, Shackelford Law representative Kara Hargrove said. Rent for the units could not exceed 30% of those AMI levels, she said. The district could reserve a certain number of

LISD improves in recruiting staff

The process The creation of a public facility corporation allows the district to form partnerships with developers that are advantageous to both parties.

Local government entity creates PFC

Leander ISD has made progress in recruiting and retaining staff members over the last two school years, according to new district data presented at an April 11 board of trustees meeting. The improvements follow a couple years of increased vacancies amid a nation- and statewide teaching shortage; however, some vacancies still exist in the district, LISD officials said. By the numbers District data shows LISD retained 81% of all staff members last school year compared to 76% in the 2021-22 school year. The district also improved retention amongst special education teachers, retain- ing 81% of special education teachers last school year versus 78% in 2021-22.

Developer proposes mixed-income housing

If approved by PFC, developer attains financing from banks or lenders PFC takes ownership of land and leases it back to developer

Developer builds housing

PFC provides tax exemption allowing developer to rent units below market rates

SOURCE: TEXAS AFFILIATION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROVIDERS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

units for staff members and negotiate making the units more affordable if desired, Hargrove said. The board plans to vote on whether to form a PFC at the May 15 meeting, after press time.

MORTGAGES Lower your monthly payments with our interest-only option. If you're looking for ways to reduce your monthly mortgage costs, our interest-only mortgage option could be the answer. Interest-only loans can be an affordable alternative to traditional mortgages since monthly payments are smaller than the typical principal-and-interest mortgage payment. If your future plans include moving, purchasing a second home or any other major life event, interest-only loans can provide great flexibility for shorter-term property owners. Interest-only loan details Loan limits from $766,551 to $5 million Single-family and condo options Primary and second homes (purchase and cash-out refinance) Fixed rates in certain states Adjustable-rate mortgages in all states served Contact me to learn more: Courtney Shuda, Assistant Vice President, Financial Sales Manager courtney.shuda@firstcitizens.com I 512-330-3007 firstcitizens.com

First r;.ai� Citizens Bank.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON & CHLOE YOUNG

EISD explores budget shortfall, arts cuts Middle school Latin classes and a part-time fine arts position are on the line as Eanes ISD board members grapple with the district’s fiscal year 2024-25 budget, which is projected to have a multimillion dollar shortfall. Board members received information on the shortfall during the April 23 board meeting. Chief Human Resources Officer Laurie Lee said, like EISD, many other neighboring districts are looking at budget shortfalls as they adopt salary increases. The details “I think it’s really important when we look back at our 2022-23 and our 2023-24 compensation, when you add those, it’s about a 9.5% increase,” Lee said. “I feel like we were very competitive.” Scott said with his recommended 2% salary increase, the EISD budgeted shortfall—or what the

LTISD shrinks High School No. 2 The Lake Travis ISD board voted to reduce the capacity of the district’s second high school opening in 2027 at its April 17 meeting. This decision comes as LTISD expects student enrollment to be lower than previous projections in light of new demographic data. What’s happening LTISD will design and build High School No. 2 for 1,500 students with an option to build a second phase for 500 additional students if needed in the future. The district is expected to save $18 million by designing the school for 1,500 students versus 2,000, VLK Architects Principal Tom Oehler said at a March 20 meeting. The revised plan will remove 17 classrooms, 4 science labs, a gymnasium, a career technical education lab and a counselor suite.

“Eanes ISD and many other Texas public schools are not impervious to a lack of

funding. ... While we are facing a deficit, we are not slashing

programs or eliminating large numbers of staff.” JEFF ARNETT, EANES ISD SUPERINTENDENT

board will vote on—is about $3.3 million. As the district prepares to pass the budget in June, Superintendent Jeff Arnett said EISD plans to phase out its Latin program at Hill Country and West Ridge Middle Schools due to declining enrollment, and the part-time fine arts director position—held by Kerry Taylor, who is retiring in May—will not be replaced at this time. “As we begin to experience the shortfalls locally, we are cautiously making incremental adjustments to minimize expenses and to be more efficient,” Arnett said.

Summer Sale! Enjoy 10-40% off storewide through the month of June 2024

Offering Custom Design, Fine Jewelry & Watches,

Jewelry Repair, Diamond & Gem Sourcing, Watch Batteries & More in the Heart of Lakeway!

2127 Lohmans Crossing #300, Lakeway, TX ∙ 512-266-1715 www.nikolasalan.com

LAKE TRAVIS - WESTLAKE EDITION

IT’S NOT JUST A PATIO.

IT’S YOUR SANCTUARY.

EMPOWERING KIDS, ADULTS AND FAMILIES THROUGH MARTIAL ARTS

Shops at the Galleria in Bee Cave Open 7 Days a Week 512-266-5666 FaradaysKitchenStore.com FARADAY’S CAN HELP YOU BUILD THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN OF YOUR DREAMS!

NOW OPEN FOR ENROLLMENT

1501 RR 620 North Suite B, Lakeway, TX 78734 512-515-1320 info@jiujitsulaketravis.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY CHLOE YOUNG

Ukrainian School of Austin provides a variety of programming to help children maintain their Ukrainian language and culture.

PHOTOS COURTESY UKRAINIAN SCHOOL OF AUSTIN

Ukrainian School of Austin serves refugee community area saw an inux of Ukrainian families following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Gavryshko said. A majority of the families served by the school reside in the Leander and Cedar Park area, she said.

The school serves students as young as two years old with art, singing and theater classes.

Most Sundays, around 100 children gather in Westlake to attend the Ukrainian School of Aus- tin—a free program dedicated to helping Ukrainian children preserve their language and culture. Ukrainian School of Austin has served as a safe haven for many children to celebrate their heritage as more families ee Ukraine amidst an ongoing war with Russia, said Natalya Gavryshko, the school’s co-founder and director. The overview Ukrainian School of Austin provides classes and programming for children and teenagers at the Trinity Episcopal School of Austin on three Sundays each month. Students ages 2-16 rotate between classes on Ukrainian language, history, art, singing and theater, while older students attend computer programming classes and will begin learning about robotics this summer, Gavryshko said. The school holds tradi- tional holiday celebrations and provides students with a library of Ukrainian books. All classes are taught in the Ukrainian language by a handful of local volunteers who share their skill sets or professions, she said. The backstory Gavryshko began teaching the Ukrainian language to children at the Cedar Park Library after moving to the area in 2018. Unlike her experience in New York, Gavryshko said she could not nd any Ukrainian schools for her children in Austin. In 2022, Gavryshko and co-founder Kate Voinova opened Ukrainian School of Austin in its current location to serve more refugee children. The Austin

“I always felt that it’s a safe place for kids where they can feel at home,” Gavryshko said. “Right now, this is the only school that exists for Ukrainian kids

in Austin.” The impact

Ukrainian School of Austin serves as an important space for children who may struggle to adjust to life in a new country without friends or understanding of the English language, Gavryshko said. The classes allow children to communicate with their families and connect with their heritage, and provide a level of support that is often not available through local school districts, she said. Despite being occupied by foreign forces, Ukraine is carried on through its culture and language, making it crucial for Ukrainian children to continue their language and learning, Gavryshko said. “Ukrainian language and culture—the Soviet Union was trying to erase it for decades, and if there is no culture and there is no language, I think that [the] country will not exist,” she said. Get involved Ukrainian School of Austin accepts donations, including school supplies and monetary contribu- tions. The school also accepts volunteers who can speak the Ukrainian language to teach classes. ATX Ukrainians, Gavryshko’s nonprot over- seeing the school, connects Ukrainian families to resources through the Assistance League of Austin.

Classes are taught in the Ukrainian language by a handful of local volunteers.

3901 Bee Caves Road, Austin www.atxukrainians.com

LAKE TRAVIS WESTLAKE EDITION

Real estate

The median home sales price in March for ZIP code 78733 nearly doubled year over year, according to Austin Board of Realtors data. Residential market data

Homes sold

Average days on the market

Lake Travis-Westlake

March 2023

March 2024

+27.3%

-33%

+66.67%

+20%

+60%

-36.84%

-42.7%

-33.33%

+145.71%

-2.63%

-31.03%

-34.07%

-37.5%

March

2023

2024

417

411

New listings

151

143

Closed sales

LAKE TRAVIS

78669

78732

78733

78734

78735

78738

78746

78669

78732

78733

78734

78735

78738

78746

Homes under contract

201

192

78734

78669

Median home sales price

Homes sold by price point in March

78732

620

78733

Months of inventory

March

2023

2024

78669 78732

78733

78734 78735

78738 78746

4.7

78746

$697,000 $773,500 $888,000 $702,500 $1,696,000 $927,000 $1,674,500

$809,900 $894,000 $1,456,500 $565,000 $857,000 $850,000 $1,800,000

78669 78732 78733 78734 78735 78738 78746

78738

$900,000+

360

78735

MOPAC

$700,000-$899,999

Price per square foot

$388 $302

$500,000-$699,999

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS AND UNLOCK MLS 5124547636 WWW.ABOR.COM

$300,000-$499,999

Active listings

809 978

<$299,999

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 20-21 Page 22 Page 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

communityimpact.com