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New Braunfels Edition VOLUME 9, ISSUE 4 MARCH 10 APRIL 7, 2026
2026 Camp Guide
Broadening access to child care Local o cials work to aid child care providers in New Braunfels
In 2024, GNBEDF engaged Early Matters San Antonio to help study the local child care land- scape. The goal was not to replicate another city’s model but to understand the unique needs of families in New Braunfels and Comal County, Crowley said. Local employers report di culty recruit- ing and retaining workers due to limited child care options. At the same time, providers cite sta ng shortages, thin pro t margins and regulatory complexity, according to an early childhood education report by Early Matters San Antonio. “We learned this isn’t just a young family issue,” Crowley said. “It’s an economic issue that a ects everyone.”
BY ETHAN THOMAS
As New Braunfels continues to grow, one issue is increasingly shaping the city’s workforce and economic future—child care. The Greater New Braunfels Economic Develop- ment Foundation, or GNBEDF, and the McKenna Foundation are working to assess and address gaps in access, a ordability and quality of care for children ages 0-5, following a resolution from City Council to match startup funds at a meeting Jan. 26. Early Matters Texas operates as a policy and advocacy framework at the state level, focusing on streamlining regulations, improving licensing processes and supporting quality standards such as Texas Rising Star, or TRS, ratings, said Mike Crowley, vice president of the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce. What started as a conversation about working parents evolved into a broader discussion about the workforce, and in 2023, the chamber began examining child care more closely, Crowley said.
CONTINUED ON 18
O cials with the McKenna Foundation said development is critical for children ages 0 5, highlighting the need for programs like Early Matters Texas. (Ethan Thomas/Community Impact)
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Correction: Volume 9, Issue 3 Alan Schoolcraft is the Republican incumbent for State Representative, District 44 in the 2026 March 3 primary election.
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
Impacts
4 Haus of Remy The shop—owned by BobbiLyn Matthews—sells enrichment toys for dogs, dog beds, treats and more. • Opened Feb. 6 • 186 E. Garden St., New Braunfels • Facebook: Haus of Remy 5 Rustic Magnolia Haus The boutique sells Western-wear, handbags and jewelry. • Opened Feb. 7 • 165 S. Seguin Ave., Ste. B, New Braunfels • https://rusticmagnoliahaus.myshopify.com 6 H.D. Gruene Mercantile The boutique sells gifts, home decor and apparel from over 70 Texas-based brands. • Opened Feb. 17 7 Sugar & Spice Sweets and Sips The sweets truck—owned by Christiana Luna-Guajardo— sells a variety of mini donuts and a rotating menu of hand squeezed lemonades. • Opened Feb. 20 • 121 E. Faust St., New Braunfels • Facebook: Sugar & Spice - Sweets and Sips 8 Ruff Town Rescue The pet boutique and wellness spa—owned by local Nancy Hierl—offers a selection of food, treats and accessories for pets. • Opened Feb. 28 • 297 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.rufftownrescue.com 9 Kennedy’s Tavern The Irish bar is owned by locals Kyle Kennedy, Lalita Kennedy and Joseph Collins. Kennedy’s Tavern serves Irish fare, specialty drinks and more. • Opened March 13 • 308 E. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.kennedystavern.com • 1607 Hunter Road, New Braunfels • www.hdgruenemercantile.com 1101
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installs vehicle customization kits, supply storage and rooftop tents. • Opened Feb. 2 • 3702 S. I-35 frontage road, Bldg. 3, Ste. 111, New Braunfels • www.hawkesoutdoors.com 3 Sofia’s Pizzeria The pizzeria, owned by Alan White, serves pizza by the slice. Sofia’s Pizzeria also offers catering. • Opened Feb. 4 • 508 Landa St., New Braunfels • www.sofiaspizzeriatx.com
Now open
1 Canopy on the Comal The venue—owned and operated by husband-and-wife duo Greg and Monique Weston—has indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, parties and corporate events. • Opened Jan. 6 • 444 E. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.canopyonthecomal.com 2 Hawkes Outdoors The vehicle outfitter—owned by Brian Booker—sells and
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Coming soon
Now open
Now open
10 Simmons Family Medicine The direct primary care clinic—owned by Travis Simmons— will offer comprehensive primary care for all ages. • Opening April 1 • 189 E. Austin St., Ste. 105, New Braunfels • www.simmonsfamilymedicine.com 11 Sanctuary Cellars The winery—owned by John and Terri Ellen LeBas—will feature a selection of Texas wines. • Opening summer
• 6112 FM 2722, New Braunfels • www.sanctuarycellarstx.com
16 Old City Hall Restaurant & Bar The restaurant is owned by the Wiggins Hospitality Group, the company that owns McAdoo’s Seafood Company and La Cosecha Mexican Table. The restaurant, located inside the former New Braunfels City Hall building, serves upscale American diner and steakhouse fare, from specialty gourmet burgers to beef tartare. • Opened Feb. 17 • 200 N. Seguin Ave., New Braunfels • www.oldcityhalltx.com
18 Sol Haus Aesthetics + Wellness + Boutique The spa and boutique is owned by New Braunfels local Marie Finger. Sol Haus Aesthetics + Wellness + Boutique offers traditional beauty treatments from facials to IV therapy plus a boutique with custom personal hygiene products. • Opened Feb. 28 • 297 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.solhauscollective.co
In the news
12 Sip Society + Daiquiri Depot The Daiquiri Depot—owned by Jordan Matt—rebranded to Sip Society + Daiquiri Depot on Feb. 2. The name change follows the addition of Sip Society’s coffee bar. • 311 FM 306, Ste. 101, New Braunfels • Instagram: @daiquiridepotnb 13 New Braunfels Candle Co. The candle shop, owned by local husband and wife duo Rex and Michelle Rexilius—is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. The shop sells candles and wax melts.
• 1404 N. I-35 frontage road, New Braunfels • Facebook: Comal Education Foundation
Lyons—served cocktails, classic bar fare and specialty burgers. • Closed Jan. 24 • 208 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • Website and social media are no longer available. 19 Roc-N-Ritas The local chain—first opening in New Braunfels in 2020—sold custom frozen cocktails to-go. • Closed Feb. 13 • 211 Elliot Knox Blvd., New Braunfels • www.rocnritas.com
• 555 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.newbraunfelscandleco.com
Hill Country Animal Rescue The animal rescue nonprofit, formerly known at Hill Country SPCA, changed its name on Jan. 1. Hill Country Animal Rescue serves the Hill Country and Comal County.
14 Jefferson Bank The San Antonio-based bank is celebrating its 80th anniversary throughout 2026. The financial institution offers traditional banking services. • 1551 N. Walnut Ave., Ste. 44, New Braunfels • www.jeffersonbank.com 15 Comal Education Foundation The nonprofit is celebrating 25 years of supporting students with a fundraising event on April 18.
• 2981 S. Hwy. 16, Fredericksburg • www.hillcountryanimalrescue.org
Closings
17 Tavern on Castell The bar—owned by Michelle Mathis-Lyons and Chip
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
Government
BY ETHAN THOMAS
Final phase of Mission Hill Park to be completed this summer
Construction is progressing on the nal phase of Mission Hill Park, with framework going up for the $12.15 million project’s three-story observation deck. The update Phase 2 construction—funded through the city’s voter-approved 2023 bond election, Proposition B—will expand amenities and “activate” the park, which sits at one of the highest elevations within city limits, New Braunfels Park Development Manager Je Bransford said. The project features a three-story structure, which includes an indoor reading room, restrooms and observation levels. An elevated canopy boardwalk will guide visitors from ground level through the treetops to the observation tower, approximately 30 feet above ground. Additional trail improvements and gathering areas are also included, said Scott McClelland, assistant director of transportation and construction services. The design re ects years of public feedback
gathered through community surveys and a 2018 master plan process. Residents consistently asked for more trails, shaded outdoor spaces and amenities that celebrate local heritage, Bransford said. “People want places to walk or run, they want to use trails,” Bransford said. “They want places that tap into New Braunfels and the culture of New Braunfels.” Diving in deeper Construction crews are currently completing extensive site work, including utilities, parking improvements and roadway access up the hill. Work is underway on the canopy walkway and observa- tion tower structure, including steel framing and elevator components. The project remains on budget despite the challenges of building on a narrow, rock- heavy site, McClelland said. Phase 2 is anticipated to be completed in May, New Braunfels Parks Director Ken Wilson said.
The three-story building includes an indoor reading room, restrooms and a 30-foot observation tower.
RENDERING COURTESY CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS
Mission Hill Park
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY ETHAN THOMAS
City invests $4.2M in re training facility
Project update
The NBFD, which provides re protection and emergency medical services to ESD 7, has already completed preliminary phases of construction for the facility, according to agenda documents. The second and nal phase—expected to cost about $4.2 million —will be fully funded by ESD 7 under the agreement. O cials hope to break ground during scal year 2026-27, with an expected construction timeline of about a year. The nal phase of the training facility will replicate real-world re scenarios re ghters may encounter across the city and within ESD 7, Lozano said. The site will feature a ve-story burn tower for live- re simulations, along with a two-story “mock city” environment that allows crews to practice navigating various emergency scenarios. An apparatus bay will support equipment storage and on-site training operations, Lozano said.
With a local training facility, the NBFD may be able to move into the higher end of that rating. Currently, New Braunfels re ghters must travel outside the city to access certi ed training facilities, which can strain sta ng levels and reduce coverage during training hours, New Braunfels Fire Chief Ruy Lozano said. “This is going to make it where we can train re ghters while on duty and not have to leave our response area,” he said.
Plans for a new certi ed re training facility are moving forward. New Braunfels City Council approved an interlocal agreement with Comal County to fund the facility’s nal phase on Jan. 12. The facility would be designed to meet Insurance Services O ce, or ISO standards. The New Braunfels Fire Department, or NBFD, holds an ISO Class 1 rating of 93.01. The rating operates on a points-based scale. ISO re protection ratings Meeting National Fire ghter Protection Association standards allows training hours to count toward ISO scoring, which can lower insurance premiums for residents within the service area. NBFD has scored consistently in rank 1.
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Top-tier protection with career sta ng, advanced communications, rapid response times
Highest premium discount
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100-80
In other news
Some premium discount
Strong protection supported by career or combination sta ng, reliable water supply, consistent training
3-4
79-60
ESD 7 is partnering with the city to improve emergency radio communications within the district. The agreement authorizes the district to fund a $2.5 million project aimed at strengthening radio coverage from the Lower Colorado River Authority, used by the NBFD, Lozano said.
Little to no discount
Average protection levels with mixed sta ng, partial hydrant coverage, variable response times
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59-40
Limited protection due to volunteer sta ng, sparse infrastructure, longer response times
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39-20
Some surcharges
Highest potential surcharges
Minimal or no recognized protection, inadequate water supply, limited resources
9-10
19-0
SOURCE: NEW BRAUNFELS FIRE DEPARTMENT COMMUNITY IMPACT
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Government
BY ETHAN THOMAS
May election called for mayor, 2 council seats New Braunfels City Council called a May elec- tion for mayor and two City Council seats Feb. 9. What you need to know In New Braunfels, the mayor is elected to a three-year term and is elected at-large, with a limit of three consecutive terms. The term “at-large” means the seat represents the entire city, and not singular districts, according to the city’s charter. Mayor Neal Linnartz was sworn into the seat in May 2023, winning nearly 60% of the vote, as previously reported by Community Impact . The two council seats up for election are Districts 5 and 6, currently held by Mary Ann Labowski and April Ryan, respectively. Labowski was also sworn in after the May 2023 election, while Ryan took office in June following a runoff election, as previously reported by Community Impact .
$16M contract OK’d for Southeast Library New Braunfels City Council approved a $16 million contract with Byrne Construction Services for the construction of the Southeast Branch Library on Feb. 9. The gist The Southeast Library is tied to the city’s voter-approved 2023 bond program, Prop- osition C, which allocated $28.56 million to library services. Construction on the 23,520-square-foot building is expected to begin this summer.
*Incumbent
New Braunfels sample ballot
Mayor
Neal Linnartz *
Michael French
Angela Allen
Jonathon Frazier
City Council member, District 5
Mary Ann Labowski*
Chase Taylor
City Council member, District 6
April Ryan*
Nikki Shaw
Steven Voges
SOURCE: CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
As the incumbent, Linnartz faces three challeng- ers for the May election, including Michael French, who works in communications, Angela Allen, who currently holds a seat on the city’s planning commission and business owner Jonathon Frazier. Labowski faces one challenger, Chase Taylor, who also holds a seat on the city’s planning commission. Ryan will face two challengers for her seat, including retail sales associate Nikki Shaw and engineer Steven Voges. The last day to register to vote is April 2.
SETTLERS CROSSING
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New Braunfels approves 250-acre municipal utility district in city’s ETJ New Braunfels City Council approved a resolution Feb. 9 to create the Botanical Farm Municipal Utility District, or MUD.
The MUD will encompass a 250.25-acre tract of land in the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. The property is planned as the Colina Ranch and Autumn Ridge subdivisions, according to agenda documents. Green Valley Special Utility District would provide water service. Wastewater service would be provided by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, agenda documents state.
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A MUD is a political subdivision of the state that allows developers to finance infrastructure through bonds repaid by property owners within the district, according to agenda documents. The overview
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
Education
BY ETHAN THOMAS
New Braunfels ISD board members received an update on the Texas Academic Performance Report, or TAPR, at a board meeting Feb. 9, which showed a 35% increase in college readiness. The TAPR compiles district and campus data from the 2024-25 school year. The report expands on accountability ratings shared in August and includes information on student performance, demographics, staffing and financial integrity, according to the Texas Education Agency website. New Braunfels ISD sees increase in college readiness
STAAR assessment results NBISD’s “approaches grade-level” scores closely align, but trend slightly above state and regional STAAR scoring, according to district officials.
STAAR Standards: Approaches Grade Level Students can apply assessed knowledge in familiar contexts but will likely need targeted academic intervention to succeed in the next grade or course. Meets Grade Level Students show a high likelihood of success in the next grade but may need some short-term, targeted intervention to apply skills in familiar contexts. Masters Grade Level Students demonstrate critical thinking and can apply knowledge in both familiar and unfamiliar contexts, indicating readiness to succeed in the next grade.
State Region NBISD
Reading Language Arts
Math
Science
Social Studies
SOURCE: NEW BRAUNFELS ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The results
Looking ahead
NBISD earned an overall “B” rating under the state’s A-F accountability system. The district also received “meets requirements” designation for special education, the highest level awarded by the state, according to the presentation to the board. Enrollment last year totaled 9,870 students, according to agenda documents. In program partic- ipation, 11% of students were enrolled in bilingual/ English as a second language services, 9.1% in gifted and talented programs and 16.3% in special education—which closely mirrors state numbers. Meanwhile, graduation rates rose to 96%, while attendance rates remained steady. Students outperformed both the state and
region in STAAR and end-of-course testing at the “approaches” and “meets” levels across all content areas. At the “masters” level, district scores were in line with state and regional averages, with higher performance in social studies, according to the presentation. By 2029, NBISD aims to have 70% of third graders meet grade-level standards in reading. Last year, 57% met standards, with a 61% target set for this spring, NBISD Chief Academic Officer Lani Norman said. The district aims for 65% of third graders to meet standards by 2029 in math; 51% met the benchmark last year, with a 53% target for 2025-26.
District officials also reported gains in College, Career and Military Readiness, or CCMR. The percentage of students earning a CCMR indicator increased from 44.8% in the 2021-22 school year to 79% in the 2024-25 school year, Norman said. For CCMR, the district’s goal is 95% by 2029, with a target of 80% next year to stay on track, Norman said. “This is a great celebration, and we have positive things in our future for what we’re doing for our students with CCMR,” Norman said.
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY ETHAN THOMAS
NBISD’s CREATE at County Line to open in August CREATE at County Line, New Braunfels ISD’s rst future-ready elementary campus, is getting ready to open in the 2026-27 school year. Two-minute impact The program will o er students and parents a di erent option for education, said Rachel Behnke, director of career and technical education for NBISD, during a Feb. 9 board meeting. CREATE at County Line—located within County Line Elementary—will use other education methods including outdoor learning and performance arts to supplement core class instruction, according to board documents. Applications opened in November and initially closed in January before reopening through Feb. 28 in response to community feedback. As of now, pro- jected enrollment sits at 312 students. The campus currently serves 295 students, with 142 returning
Comal ISD trustees cancel May 3 general election The Comal ISD board of trustees canceled its May 3 general election for single-member Districts 3 and 4 on Feb. 26 due to both races being uncontested. The details The deadline to le for a place on the ballot was Feb. 14, according to the district’s website. Current District 3 board member Russ Garner was the only candidate for his district, and local entrepreneur Victor Reyna was the only ler for District 4, which is currently held by Jason York, according to board documents. Board members will be sworn in following the election, according to the district’s website.
CREATE enrollment numbers NBISD has received 170 applications for CREATE at County Line.
Kindergarten: 52 First grade: 71 Second grade: 47
SOURCE: NEW BRAUNFELS ISD COMMUNITY IMPACT
students con rming plans to stay, Behnke said. The district received 170 applications for kindergarten through second grade, including 52 kindergartners, 71 rst graders and 47 second graders. Applications came from every NBISD elementary campus, Behnke said. Looking ahead Planning meetings, sta training and family engagement events will continue through the sum- mer, with another board update expected in June, Behnke said. CREATE at County Line is anticipated to open in August.
Long Creek High School Phase 2 completion delayed New Braunfels ISD trustees approved a no-cost change order to extend the completion date for Phase 2 construction at Long Creek High School on Feb. 9. What you need to know Permit delays and design changes pushed the completion date from Jan. 4 to March 30, according to Bartlett Cocke General Contractors, the rm overseeing construction. District voters passed the construction of Long Creek High School under the district’s November 2021 bond in two propositions, which totaled $327.9 million . The bond is funding projects that address district growth, aging facilities, athletic upgrades and technology, as previously reported by Commu- nity Impact. Phase 1 was completed in 2025.
Long Creek High School is located at 4150 Klein Meadows in New Braunfels.
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY SIERRA MARTIN
46 Project: Intersection and drainage improvements at W. Zipp Road and Old Zip Road will be completed. Update: On Jan. 26, New Braunfels City Council approved a motion to begin the process to nd contractors. • Timeline: Summer-fall 2026 • Cost: $1.3M • Funding source: Roadway Impact Fee Program 3 W. Zipp Road and Old Zipp Road intersection improvements
Upcoming projects
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1 AAMPO Citywide Pedestrian Improvements, Phase 1
LIBERTY AVE. HINMAN ISLAND DR.
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Project: Improvements will be made to sidewalks and shared-use paths at ve locations throughout New Braunfels: A Oak Run Parkway, B Hinman Island Drive, C Christus Santa Rosa Hospital area, D Alves Lane and E County Line Road, according to agenda documents. Update: On Jan. 26, New Braunfels City Council approved a motion to begin the process to nd contractors. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $3.2 million • Funding source: Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, or AAMPO 2 Coll Street Drainage Improvements Project: The roadway will see improvements to drainage, right of way and underground utility conversion on Coll Street between Castell Avenue and the Comal River, agenda documents state. Update: On Jan. 26, the New Braunfels City Council approved a motion to begin the process of nding contractors. • Timeline: Fall 2026-end of 2027 • Cost: $7.8 million • Funding source: New Braunfels Economic Development Corp.
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4 Divine Way Rehabilitation Project Project: A complete mill and overlay of the roadway, replacement of base material with asphalt and the reconstruction of Americans with Disabilities Act- compliant ramps are all included in the scope of the project. Roadwork will occur on portions of Divine Way, Burleson Drive and Eagle Pass in the Dove Crossing subdivision. Update: Construction began Feb. 16 and is anticipated to take approximately four weeks, according to a news release. • Timeline: Feb. 16-late March • Cost: $980,000 • Funding source: 2023 bond, Proposition A
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Development
BY ETHAN THOMAS
2722 City Council to consider 38-acre rezoning for new development The proposed zoning is a change from a sepa- rate request to the planning commission May 5, 2025, which asked the city to rezone the land to all 5,500-square-foot lots. The commission did not push the 2025 request forward, said Amanda Minski, a planner with the city’s neighborhood and community planning department. 46 Another subdivision could be in the works for the city of New Braunfels. The New Braunfels Planning Commission held a public hearing for a proposed 38-acre rezoning request for a new development Feb. 3. The details Residential Old Mission Lane extension Agriculture
The property is located Southwest of Hwy. 46 near Hueco Springs Loop Road. Roughly 26 acres of the property are zoned for agricultural use, with the remaining 12 acres zoned for residential use. Under the existing zoning, developers are allowed to create 5,500-square-foot lots, according to agenda documents. The rezoning would allow for a maximum of 131 homes, down from 156 under the earlier proposal, said Ashley Farrimond, a lawyer with Killen, Grif- fin & Farrimond representing KB Home. KB Home, the potential developer of the property, requested the land be rezoned to allow for 6,600-square-foot lots, according to agenda documents.
Development of the property would also require the extension of Old Mission Lane, which is desig- nated as a minor collector in the city’s thorough- fare plan and the Mission Hills Ranch Master Plan, as previously reported by Community Impact. Public hearing notices were mailed to 63 property owners within 200 feet of the property. Eight property owners were against the develop- ment, and the remaining property owners did not respond, according agenda documents. Michella Smith, a resident of the subdivision, said the current infrastructure could not sustain additional traffic.
OLD MISSION LN.
N
“I oppose this zoning change because it would introduce a dense housing development that does not align with the character or infrastructure of our neighborhood,” Smith said in her comment to the commission. The rezoning is expected to be presented to the City Council on March 23, city officials said.
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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION
Broadening access to child care From the cover
Assessing the need
Child care assistance deserts Child care providers who participate in the TRS rating system can receive subsidies for assisting low-income families, but a lack of rated providers causes families in need to face longer waitlists and high costs. Number of child care seats per 100 children
Through surveys and listening sessions, New Braunfels child care providers and business leaders convened to assess the gap in care. Employers shared concerns about workforce participation, while providers detailed operational challenges, including staffing shortages and rising costs, according to the early childhood education report. Early Matters New Braunfels aims to fill a lack of available subsidized seats, which can have a tangible effect on families in which both parents working is a necessity, Crowley said. Many families face long waitlists, particularly for infant care, which requires lower staff-to-child ratios and higher operating costs. Meanwhile, some centers are licensed for higher capacities but operate below that level because they cannot hire enough staff, said Alice Jewell, CEO of the McKenna Foundation. Wages for child care workers typically range from about $13.50 to $15 per hour, competing with retail and grocery positions that may offer higher pay and more predictable hours, Jewell said. “You could go to H-E-B and pick groceries for $19 an hour. So there’s a lot of competition in that wage range. And this is a high-stress, [high- demanding] job, to be taking care of babies all day,” Jewell said.
Blanco 5.3
Hays 5.9
not a desert 25-33
15-25
5-15
0-5
Kendall 4.9
Caldwell 9.2
Comal 6.6
Comal County average of 6.6 seats available per 100 children
Bandera 21.9
Guadalupe 9.4
Bexar 24.4
Medina 10.3
Wilson 27.6
Atascosa 34.4
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
SOURCE: CHILDREN AT RISK/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The nonprofit lists “deserts” as areas with 0-33 seats per 100 children. The entirety of Comal County is listed as a desert, while surrounding Bexar, Kendall and Guadalupe counties have some areas that have more than 33 seats available, according to the nonprofit.
Sections of Comal, Guadalupe, Bexar and Kendall counties are designated as child care “deserts” for families requiring financial assistance, according to Children at Risk, a national nonprofit organization that focuses on children’s education and development.
Digging deeper
through the Texas Workforce Commission, Crowley said. The funds are paid by TWC to child care pro- viders through the Child Care Services program, which supports families in need pay for care, according to the TWC website. Raising the number of rated providers could expand access for lower-income families while also promoting higher-quality early learning environments, Crowley said. The foundation also examined the TRS system, which determines eligibility for certain state child care subsidies. Currently, only five centers in Comal County participate in the program, limiting options for families who rely on assistance. The list includes The Goddard School, Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, The Morgan Center LLC, Meth- odist Preschool and The Children’s Courtyard Inc. TRS designates one to four “stars” to providers using performance, employee training and ame- nities, including indoor and outdoor play spaces,
Early Matters New Braunfels will act as both an advocacy and a coordination effort, Jewell said. At the state level, child care regulations are overseen by multiple agencies, creating a complex and difficult-to-navigate system for providers. The focus now is on aligning policy, funding and business support, Jewell said. “The child care industry is regulated by six dif- ferent state entities,” she said. “It makes it difficult for your child care providers to navigate that.” To address this, a steering committee—com- posed of representatives from local school districts, businesses, community organizations and former providers—has been meeting for sev- eral months to outline priorities, Jewell said. One early goal is increasing participation in the TRS system, which offers up to four levels of quality designation. While participation is voluntary to operate in Texas, centers must hold a TRS rating to accept certain child care subsidy funds administered
Texas Rising Star ratings TRS rates child care providers using the facilities' training, safety and amenities. Entry-level standards: Must hold license and be inspected by state entities or
Mid-tier standards: Additional employee training, recreational spaces and safety standards
Highest standards: Further educational training for employee, indoor/ outdoor recreational spaces, safety standards and accepted teaching curriculum
educational training for employees, kitchen and cooking amenities, and curriculum, according to the TRS website.
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY ETHAN THOMAS
By the numbers
What’s next
The funding will total $225,000 in the first year, and $200,000 in the second and third years, Jewell said. The average cost of child care can range from $149 per child for a five-day workweek to $212, totaling $7,748-$11,024 annually, according to a study conducted on behalf of the TWC by the University of Texas.
Program funding comes from the McKenna Foundation, the GNBEDF and the Kronkowsky Foundation. The McKenna Foundation donated $100,000 annually for three years and has been matched by the GNBEDF. The Kronkowsky Foun- dation has also given a one-time $25,000 grant to kickstart the program, Jewell said.
An executive director for the program is expected to be hired by early summer, Crowley said. The role will focus on establishing measurable goals over the next three years. Long-term goals include growing the number of TRS providers and the number of available seats.
Cost and availability of care in Comal County
Registered : are licensed but also participate in the TRS rating system so they can receive subsidies
Licensed : can provide early child care
Filling the need
Average weekly cost of child care in Texas Licensed child care centers $192 Licensed child care homes $183 Registered child care homes $176
TRS-rated providers in nearby counties
2024: GNBEDF reached out to Early Matters San Antonio for assistance in determining the need in Comal County. Kronkowsky Foundation commit funds to kickstart Early Matters New Braunfels. January 2026: New Braunfels City Council approves funds to match the McKenna Foundation for three years. 2025: The McKenna Foundation and the June 2026: Early Matters New Braunfels will have hired a new director to lead the program. 2029: Early Matters New Braunfels will look to acquire continued funding for the program.
2024
Comal
5
Bexar
12
2025
Kendall
2
Guadalupe
5
2026
SOURCE: UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
2027
Public input
2028
The process to get a higher TRS rating takes away from the job of child care providers, Summer Bolado, director of Triple L Ranch Child Develop- ment, said. Although Triple L Ranch is not TRS rated, Bolado said having a system in place to streamline the process would give caretakers more time to do what they are passionate about.
“[Providers] don’t want to have many more things taking up their time. It adds more to our plate and takes away from us really caring for the children.” SUMMER BOLADO, OWNER AND DIRECTOR OF TRIPLE L RANCH CHILD DEVELOPMENT
2029
SOURCE: GREATER NEW BRAUNFELS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Events
BY ANDREW CREELMAN
March
March Market at Freiheit This family-friendly event will showcase local boutiques and other vendors. There will also be a playscape for children. This event is pet-friendly. • March 14, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • Freiheit Country Store, • 2157 FM 1101, New Braunfels • Facebook: Freiheit Country Store Spring Sip n’ Shop Get ready for spring with another market that features local vendors, wine tastings and snacks. • March 15, noon-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • Winery on the Gruene, Kids’ Day Out This daylong event will have games, crafts, movies and more as public schools will be closed for spring break. • March 16, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. • $55 (registration fee) • Landa Recreation Center, • 164 Landa Park Drive, New Braunfels • www.newbraunfels.gov Beetlejuice Jr. The Musical Catch this live theatrical performance of the spooky film classic, “Beetlejuice.” • March 20-22, Friday 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturday 1-4 p.m., 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Sunday 1-4 p.m. • $16.40-18.45 (price based on seat selection) • 1308 Gruene Road, New Braunfels • Facebook: Magic-Time Markets
Live @ Landa: Concert in the Park Free live music returns to Landa Park for the year with the first outdoor concert of the spring. Artists and bands will be announced at a later date.
• March 19, 6-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • Landa Park Dance Slab,
164 Landa Park Drive, New Braunfels • www.newbraunfels.gov/Calendar
• New Braunfels Civic & Convention Center, • 375 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.homefortheholidaysgiftmarket.com
• Cypress Bend Park, 503 Peace St., New Braunfels • www.visitnbtx.com/events/spring-egg-hunt-at- cypress-bend-park Seed to Sip Spring Festival Head to this local brewery for their annual spring festival featuring spring-themed beer, a vendor market,
Folkfest Hosted by the Heritage Society of New Braunfels, this annual festival will have live music, artisan workshops and local vendors highlighting Texan, German and Mexican culture. Children 12 years old and under are free. • April 11, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. • $10 (admission) • 1370 Church Hill Drive, New Braunfels • www.texashandmadefurniture.com/folkfest Wedding Fair Bridal Expo This expo will feature over 70 bridal salons, wedding venues, guest entertainment services for wedding planners. Children 12 years old and under are free. • April 12, noon-4 p.m.
live music and tastings. • March 29, noon-7 p.m. • Free (admission)
• Five Stones Artisan Brewery, • 11335 FM 1863, New Braunfels • www.5stonesbrewery.com
• New Braunfels Performing Arts, • 131 Gattuso Road, New Braunfels • www.nbperformingarts.com
April
New Braunfels Spring Gift Market This spring shopping market will feature more than 100 local businesses offering a variety of handmade goods, treats, toys, gifts and spring-themed trinkets. • April 3-4, Friday 4-8 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • $5.41 (admission)
Spring Egg Hunt at Cypress Bend Park The annual Easter egg hunt is intended for children ages 8-12. Preregistration is required. • March 28, 11 a.m. • $9 (registration fee)
• $10 (admission), kids under 12 are free • New Braunfels Civic & Convention Center, • 375 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.weddingfairshow.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Events
BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN
Thru the Chute, one of New Braunfels’ most popular annual springtime events, is seeing changes in 2026. The event, which previously operated as a rst- come, rst-serve event, has had attendance grow by approximately 89% since 2023, according to Placer ID data from the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce. Due to the event’s growing popularity, event- goers have been turned away at the gate, families have been separated by gate closures, and early morning lineups have created congestion, city o cials said in an email to Community Impact . What you need to know about Thru the Chute in 2026
Diving in deeper
Before you go
Thru the Chute estimated attendance
In an e ort to provide a safe and enjoyable expe- rience for all participants and spectators, the city placed a cap on in-person attendance and began o ering free spectator tickets—which are required to enter the event. Tickets were available for free online on a rst-come, rst-served basis starting at 8 a.m. Feb. 2, according to the email. “This allows the city to set clear expectations and manage crowd size in a predictable and safer manner,” the email states. About 5,500 spectator tickets were claimed within the rst hour of being released, and in-per- son spectator tickets are now sold out. Although the total number of boats allowed for this year’s event increased, boat registration also sold out, city o cials said in the email. The city is also livestreaming the event on New Braunfels’ social media for the rst time. “A series of watch parties are being organized and hosted at downtown businesses,” the email states.
Where to watch
Thru the Chute attendance has grown by approximately 89% since 2023, according to Placer ID data from the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, which was provided by the city.
Thru the Chute
4 Scores Sports Bar & Grill 5 The Hideaway 6 Lost & Found
1 Float in 2 Kennedy's Tavern 3 Krause's Cafe
8,000
+89.3%
PRINCE SOLMS PARK
7,100
1
6,000
V E
O
M
4,000
6
2
3,750
2,000
4
3
5
0
2023
2024
2025
W. JAHN ST.
The Thru the Chute event will take place at 10 a.m. April 11 in Prince Solms Park.
N
NOTE: THIS MAP INCLUDES WATCH PARTIES LISTED ON THE CITY’S WEBSITE AS OF MARCH 2.
COURTESY CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS
SOURCES: NEW BRAUNFELS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS, PLACER ID COMMUNITY IMPACT
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