Georgetown Edition | October 2023

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GEORGETOWN EDITION

VOLUME 16, ISSUE 7 MARCH 15 APRIL 18, 2023

TWO SYSTEMS, ONE PROBLEM

Namaste Dine-In brings Nepali, Indian cuisine

City presented check for FM 971 expansion

COUNTY VACANCIES

The Williamson County Sheri’s Oce and the Williamson County Juvenile Detention Center have experienced an increase in unlled positions among corrections ocers and supervision ocers, respectively, over the past ve years.

CAMP GUIDE 2023

WILLIAMSON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

WILLIAMSON COUNTY JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER

Budgeted corrections ocer positions Percent of positions vacant

Corrections ocer vacancies

Budgeted supervision ocer positions

Supervision ocer vacancies

Percent of positions vacant

0.9%

5.1%

2019

Local summer camps

3.4%

2020

12.1%

11.7%

2021

20.5%

28.6%

2022

24.2%

22.1%

2023

100

150

200

250

300

60 70 80

SOURCE: WILLIAMSON COUNTYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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Williamson County corrections, juvenile justice systems navigate shortages

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BY GRANT CRAWFORD

juvenile detention centers are both facing a similar issue throughout Texas. Williamson County’s Sheri’s O ce and Juvenile Detention Center are among the pool of agencies nationwide in search of new people willing to join the profession. As of February, the sheri’s o ce had 62 corrections o cer vacancies

out of 256 budgeted positions. Meanwhile, the juvenile center was looking to ll 17 of its 77 positions. These shortages have spurred Sheri Mike Gleason and county o cials to provide pay raises in an eort to improve recruitment as the county competes with area agencies CONTINUED ON 30

Williamson County is facing a shortage of adult corrections o cers and juvenile supervision o cers, forcing sta to work overtime, preventing youth from receiving individualized care and leaving o cials searching for solutions. Adult corrections facilities and

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Homes have changed over the last 60 years

But what a home brings — feelings of comfort and safety, and a place to be happy, connect and belong — remains constant. The Wesleyan is proud to have provided generations in the Georgetown region with senior living communities that feel like home, no matter how their personal needs may have changed.

TheWesleyan.org/60

GEORGETOWN EDITION • MARCH 2023

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THIS ISSUE

MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Denise Seiler EDITOR Claire Shoop REPORTERS Grant Crawford, Tekima Johnson Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes. MANAGING EDITOR Joe Warner COPY EDITOR Kasey Salisbury SENIOR ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Haley Grace CONTACT US 16225 Impact Way, Ste. 1, Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES geonews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING geoads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising 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 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Alissa Foss ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Dana Smyth METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Travis Baker ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH

FROM DENISE: Even though we are still recovering from the winter storm, the weather is changing, and we are looking ahead to prepare for the summer. In this edition we are running our annual Camp Guide, so if you are looking for a place for your child to learn, grow, experience new activities or simply make new friends, check out our noncomprehensive guide of camps (see Pages 16-19). Denise Seiler, GENERAL MANAGER

FROM CLAIRE: Our front-page story this month takes a look at sta ng shortages among corrections o cers and juvenile supervision o cers at Williamson County facilities. Between the two positions, there were 79 vacancies in February. To address the issue, Commissioners Court approved pay raises for Sheri’s O ce sta, but Juvenile Detention Center sta was not included. Read more about how the shortages are aecting operations (see Page 30-31). Claire Shoop, EDITOR

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GEORGETOWN EDITION • MARCH 2023

DEL WEBB BLVD.

195

IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

2238

SERENADA DR.

NORTHWEST BLVD.

LAKE GEORGETOWN

130 TOLL

Namaste Dine-In

COURTESY NAMASTE DINE¡IN

Leander for several years. The business provides dine-in and takeout options, serving customers a variety of pizzas, chicken wings, sandwiches and more. 512-843-4284. www.angelaronzonis.com Sani-Bin began serving Georgetown residents in December. The home-based business is owned and operated by Nathan Meusel and Todd Siani. The business sends a vehicle to visit customers’ homes to clean and sanitize the interior and exterior of the recycling and garbage bins using hot water at 200 degrees Fahrenheit. 844-726-4246. www.sani-bin.com COMING SOON 130 TOLL 5 Namaste Dine-In , a new restaurant featuring Nepali and Indian cuisine, plans to open in mid-March, after press time. Owned by Dinesh Mishra, who is from a small hamlet in Nepal, Namaste Dine-In is located at 103 N. Austin Ave., Ste. 105, Georgetown. The menu consists of curry, masala, chow mein, kebabs, naan bread and more. As a side, customers can order various chutney, raita and papad. The dining spot also features a lunch buet. 512-819-1756. www.namastedinein.com 6 The League Kitchen & Tavern is planning to open a new location on the southeast corner of I-35 and University Avenue in Georgetown. The restaurant’s menu will feature a variety of burgers and sandwiches as well as sh, chicken, pork and beef entrees. The business, which has multiple locations in Austin, is seeking to have the new site open this fall, according to a representative. An exact address was not available as of press time. www.leaguekitchen.com 110 110 29

RIVERY BLVD.

KAUFFMAN LOOP

RONALD REAGAN BLVD.

WOLF RANCH PKWY.

1460

SAN GABRIEL RIVER

NOW OPEN 1 The Austin Dance Conservatory opened a new dance studio Feb. 13 at 275 SE Inner Loop, Georgetown, co-found- er and owner Kelly Yankle said. Over the past 20 years, Yankle has established a career as an internationally recognized professional dancer, teacher, coach and choreographer. The business’s temporary location was in Cedar Park. 512-671-0519. www.theaustindanceconservatory.com

2 Lualima Cooperative opened Feb. 14 at the Georgetown Recreation Center, 1003 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown. Lualima Cooperative is a microschool that oers programming under the nonprot organization GTX Connect. Owned by Darleen Rodriguez and Monique LaCour, the business provides hybrid, drop-o and collaborative workspaces. It oers a trade program for families who are unable to aord tuition. 512-686-8358. www.lualimacooperative.org

3 512 Liquors opened Dec. 8 at 950 W. University Ave., Ste. 205, Georgetown. Owned by Shivam Desai and Taral Patel, the business has spirits, wine, beer, mixers, cigars and more. Customers can shop the aisles in person or shop online. 512-240-4015. www.512liquors.com 4 Angela Ronzoni’s Pizzeria opened Jan. 26 at 9073 W. Hwy. 29, Ste. 209, Liberty Hill. The family-run restaurant is owned by Ron and Angie Diaz, who have operated Perky Beans Coee & PB Cafe in 1460

Dr. Craig P. Torres D.D.S., Endodontist Board Certied (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) 62 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

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1431

(severe wear/malocclusions) • Complex esthetic and functional cases • Dental implants • Dentures / partial dentures

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

COMPILED BY GRANT CRAWFORD & TEKIMA JOHNSON

Ike’s Love and Sandwiches

Gene’s Auto Repair and Service Center

COURTESY IKE’S LOVE AND SANDWICHES

COURTESY GENE’S AUTO REPAIR AND SERVICE CENTER

RELOCATIONS 9 All Care Therapies of Georgetown recently moved into a temporary facility at 455 Hwy. 195, Georgetown, and is expect- ing its new permanent facility—located at 3610 Williams Drive—to be ready by April. The business oers occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy services for children and adults. 512-256-7627. www.allcaretherapygt.com 10 Gene’s Auto Repair and Service Center moved to a new location Feb. 6. The new larger facility is located at 7101 RM 2338, Georgetown. The auto shop oers oil changes, vehicle inspections, engine diagnostics, brake service, wheel alignment and more. Owner Gene Edmondson has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive repair eld. 512-688-5190. www.genesautorepair.net

7 Ike’s Love and Sandwiches is expected to open a new Georgetown location at 1021 University Ave., Ste. 105, by late March. The restaurant oers a variety of sandwiches for meat lovers, but it also serves a range of vegetarian, vegan, halal and gluten-free options. With locations in the western U.S. and Texas, Ike’s has Austin-area stores in Round Rock and Cedar Park. www.ikessandwich.com 8 Jersey Mike’s Subs will open March 22 at 3303 Williams Drive, Ste. 1050, Georgetown. Jersey Mike’s Subs is a fast-food franchise with more than 2,000 locations that serves East Coast-style subs on freshly baked bread. The business also oers catering and breakfast options. The store owner for the new Georgetown location is Jason Odom. www.jerseymikes.com

Georgetown Inniti opened a dealership at 6901 S. I35 on March 13.

TEKIMA JOHNSON¥COMMUNITY IMPACT

FEATURED IMPACT NOW OPEN Georgetown Inniti opened at 6901 S. I-35, Georgetown, on March 13, after press time. Georgetown Inniti is a luxury vehicle dealership that serves drivers in Georgetown, Cedar Park, Round Rock and other surrounding communities. Along with its selection of vehicles, the dealership has a client lounge space with Wi-Fi and snacks, and it provides loaner cars to customers

who need to leave their vehicle at the service center. The owner of the dealership is Kirk Franceschini. www.facebook.com/georgetowninniti

G A T E W A Y D R .

LUCKY YOU! You don’t need the luck of the Irish to have a great smile- you just need to take that first step! Georgetown Family Orthodontics offers a variety of treatment options to fit your budget and lifestyle, and we’re always accepting new patients. We are conveniently located at Shell Road and Williams Drive. Call today to schedule your appointment.

Aaron J. White, DDS 4507 Williams Drive • 512.869.4100 GTFamilyOrtho.com

GEORGETOWN EDITION • MARCH 2023

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

TODO LIST

March & April events

COMPILED BY TEKIMA JOHNSON

31 THROUGH APRIL 30 WATCH A BROADWAY MUSICAL The Georgetown Palace Theatre will host a performance of “Cinderella” on the Springer Stage. The show with music from Oscar Hammerstein and Richard Rodgers is largely in¤uenced by the classic fairy tale as well as the French version, “Cendrillon ou la Petite Pantou¤e de Verre.” 7:30 p.m. (Fri.-Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.) $17 (children age 13 and under); $24 (students with ID at the door); $33 (seniors, military members and students online); $36 (adults). 810 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. 512-869-7469.www.georgetownpalace.com APRIL 01 PUT ON YOUR BOOTS AND DANCE Ride On Center for Kids will host its 17th annual Barn Dance with the theme “25 Years of ROCK, Walk On!” The organization’s largest fundraising event will include a live auction, dinner, and dancing. Texas Jamm Band, featuring members of George Strait’s Ace in the Hole band, will perform. 4:30-10 p.m. Volunteer opportunities to set up and break down are available. A free silent auction opens online March 25 at noon. 2050 Rockride Lane, Georgetown. 512-930-7625. www.rockride.org

MARCH 17 THROUGH APRIL 23 WALK THROUGH AN EXHIBIT The Georgetown Art Center will have an exhibit on display from Anna Lisa Leal, whose artwork uses soft pastels to embody radiant patterns of nature and botanicals. There will be an artist reception March 18 from 4-6 p.m., and Leal will give a talk March 19 at 2 p.m. The exhibit is available during art center hours. Free. 816 S. Main St., Georgetown. 512-930-2583. www.georgetownartcentertx.org 17 ENJOY WINE TASTING As part of its Friday and Saturday night live music schedule and in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, Chris Hunt will perform at Georgetown Winery. Hunt sings vocals while playing a string instrument. During the performance, the community can also enjoy a wine tasting or sip on a glass of their choice. 4:30-7:30 p.m. Free. 715 S. Main St., Georgetown. 512-869-8600. www.georgetownwinery.com 18 LEARN HOW TO TAKE PHOTOS The annual Georgetown Texas Photography Festival aims to help photographers capture the beauty of the city. This year’s theme celebrates

the county’s 175th anniversary. The event will include photo walks, educational classes and meet-and- greets with featured photographers. Online registration is available. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Georgetown Square, 716 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown. 512-943-1670. www.georgetowntexas photographyfestival.com 24 THROUGH 25 VIEW A QUILT SHOW Handcrafts Unlimited will host its 2023 Georgetown Quilt Show. Called “It’s Tulip Time,” the event will feature a display of quilts submitted by area quilters as well as a silent auction, on-site vendors, a tea room and raes. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7. Georgetown Community Center, 445 E. Morrow St., Georgetown. 512-869-1812. www.handcraftsunlimited.com 26 LISTEN TO AN ORCHESTRA Joseph Alessi, the principal trombonist of the New York Philharmonic, will play a concert alongside the Central Texas Philharmonic. 3-5:30 p.m. $10 (students), $35 (general admission), $40 (premium seating). Klett Center for the Performing Arts, 2211 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown. 512-766-0091. www.centraltexasphilharmonic.org

COURTESY CHRIS MAXBAND Chris MaxBand will perform live at Hardtails Bar and Grill. FEATURED EVENT Party like a rock star The Chris MaxBand will perform a concert at Hardtails Bar and Grill on March 24. The band plays classic rock music using guitars and drums. 8-11:45 p.m. Free. 1515 I-35, Georgetown 512-413-7093

www.facebook.com/ chrismaxmusictexas/

GOLDEN OAKS DR.

Find more or submit Georgetown events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.

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GEORGETOWN EDITION • MARCH 2023

TRANSPORTATION UPDATES Georgetown awarded $4M for future FM 971 work U.S. Rep. John Carter presented

COMPLIED BY TEKIMA JOHNSON & CLAIRE SHOOP

ONGOING PROJECTS

130 TOLL

105

Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder a $4 million check Feb. 3 to go toward expanding FM 971. The future FM 971 expansion project will span from Gann Street to SH 130, widening the road to four lanes, adding a median and a shared-use path for bikes and pedestrians, Carter said during the event. In July, the city and state widened FM 971 to four lanes between Austin Avenue and Gann. That project also connected FM 971 to Northwest Boulevard, which provides access to I-35. The $4 million in federal funding comes from the U.S. scal year 2022-23 budget, which was passed down through the Appropriations Committee. Schroeder said the total cost of the project is between $30 million- $40 million. Georgetown Communications Manager Keith Hutchinson said the federal dollars will fund design, right

HIGGS RD.

1460

Westinghouse Road reconstruction In the project to fully rebuild the two- lane section of Westinghouse Road from FM 1460 to SH 130, upcoming work will include water line construc- tion, utility relocations and paving the proposed roadway in various locations, according to the county. No changes to the trac pattern are expected. The overall project will improve the road’s shoulders and remove 90-degree turns on the road. The price of the project has increased by about $1 million due to executed change orders. Timeline: February 2022-early 2024 Cost: $22 million Funding sources: city of Georgetown, Williamson County

Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder (left) accepted a check from U.S. Rep. John Carter that will go toward expanding FM 971. (Tekima Johnson/Community Impact)

of way acquisition and environmen- tal approvals. The city will then need to nd funding for construction. “It’s a long stretch of road, so it’s a lot of improvements,” Schroeder said at the event. “So this would be great seed money to get the project going.” Timeline: TBD Cost: $30-$40 million Funding sources: federal funding, city of Georgetown, potential additional partners

130 TOLL

PARKVIEW DR.

971

ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF FEB. 15. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT GEONEWSCOMMUNITYIMPACT.COM.

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Projects underway in the Georgetown area DEVELOPMENT BRIEFS 1,000 homes to be built in Parmer Ranch community in coming years

BY GRANT CRAWFORD

Progress continues at Parmer Ranch in Georgetown as builders work to ll out the 454-acre master-planned community, which will eventually include 1,000 single-family homes. In addition to the 100 residents already living in Parmer Ranch, 60 more homes have been sold in the community, as developers are continuing construc- tion with build-out in the next three to ve years. Four builders are working in the area, including Gehan Homes, GFO Homes, Sitterle Homes and Empire Communities, while a fth, Westin Homes, is set to take on a portion of the 131 lots to be delivered to the development in March. This would be an addition to the 375 lots already on site. Of those lots, 150 homes have been completed or are nearing completion. Another 50 have been under construction since August, and builders broke ground on 84 on Feb. 13.

2338

PARMER RANCH BLVD.

As homes are under construction at Parmer Ranch, developers recently nished building Parmer Park.

COURTESY PARMER RANCH

“There are other communities where builders have lots, but aren’t starting homes, because the market has moved against them,” said developer Joe Owen, of Owen Holdings Inc. “I think it’s a real good sign for our community that the builders continue to start homes, because they believe they’ll sell them once they start them.”

Situated on 10 acres in the middle of the development, Parmer Park includes a zip line, a dino dig and a community pond with trails connecting it to the surrounding homes. Work on the Parmer Ranch amenity center—which will feature a pool, covered patios, pickleball and basketball courts, and a playground—is set to begin by May.

Regional health care provider to expand women’s facility

WilCo approves cost of new buildings

A Williamson County Juvenile Detention Center B Potential site of Williamson County headquarters

SOUTHWESTERN BLVD.

BY GRANT CRAWFORD

The Williamson County Commissioners Court decided dollar amounts for a new county headquarters and approved moving forward with construction to expand the Williamson County Juvenile Detention Center on Feb. 17. While a price tag of around $117 million for a new county headquarters, or administration building, was initially brought to the court, commissioners allocated $90 million for the project, which will potentially be located near the corner of Southwestern Boulevard

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Lone Star Circle of Care will expand its Georgetown Women’s Center.

BY TEKIMA JOHNSON

110

With construction to start March 6 and last through May, Lone Star Circle of Care will expand the Georgetown Women’s Center, CEO Jon Calvin said. The expanded facility—which will likely open in June—will provide space for a fourth provider and include 13 exam rooms, oce space, a lab and a sta break room. Located at 1900 Scenic Drive, Ste. 3326, Georgetown, the center oers prenatal, gynecological, and labor and delivery services. “We’re actually staying open

COURTESY LONE STAR CIRCLE OF CARE

and the SE Inner Loop. A full expansion of the Juvenile Detention Center would also cost around $97 million. The court voted to begin construction on three phases of the expansion for $82.1 million. No timeline for construction on projects is available.

throughout the construction period with our existing clinic. The space we acquired is adjacent to it, so we’re knocking out a wall, and they’re building out that space,” Calvin said.

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GOVERNMENT Georgetown aims to implement nonemergency phone number

Contacting the city

WHAT IS 311?

311 is a nonemergency special phone number that connects residents of a certain area to municipal services or information. It is the nonemergency equivalent to the 911 emergency system.

are made to the city of Georgetown each month. 30,000 calls

hold times can occur under the current system. 45-minute

is the expected time frame for launching the 311-like system. September 2024

BY TEKIMA JOHNSON

“While we know it’s a big lift, there are some signi cant improvements and bene ts that will really help the citizens as well as departments across the city,” Gipson said during the Jan. 24 City Council meeting. Simplifying the system In September, the city completed a survey in which residents could provide feedback on how they want the city to interact with them. The city of Georgetown receives about 30,000 calls per month on average, Gipson told City Council. The survey showed the top ve

In an eort to condense the maze of 34 dierent phone numbers Georgetown residents have to navigate when they need assistance from the city, ocials are looking to implement a “311-like” system that would streamline the process. 311 is a nonemergency phone line that residents can call to get informa- tion about nonemergency services; le complaints; or report issues such as abandoned vehicles, sidewalk and road repairs, and failed trac signals. Over the past 10 years, the city of Georgetown has seen an increase in

DID YOU KNOW? The system the city of Georgetown is looking to implement is being called “311- like” because the nal number residents will call for services may dier due to the geographic constraints of 311.

WHY DOES GEORGETOWN WANT A 311LIKE SYSTEM? The city of Georgetown has 34 dierent department phone numbers residents can call with questions about the city. A 311-like system would create one centralized phone number.

WHY WOULD SOMEONE CALL 311? Residents can call 311 for any nonemergent concerns, including:

With questions about utilities

reasons the city is contacted are electric or water problems; garbage or recycling; 911 emergencies; nonemergency re and police con- cerns; and public works needs, such as trac signals, roads and ooding. Other common calls to the city were for animal control,

both 911 calls as well as calls for nonemergency city services, according to city ocials. Under the current system, when residents need to contact the city, they can call the main number and be transferred between depart- ments until they reach the correct person, often

“RECENT EVENTS MADE US REALLY LOOK AT HOW MANY DIFFERENT DEPARTMENTS HAD SEPARATE PHONE NUMBERS, HOW CONFUSED PEOPLE COULD GET WHEN THEY DON’T KNOW EXACTLY WHO TO CALL.” LAURIE BREWER, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER

34 phone numbers

Current system

To reach animal control services

To report potholes or stoplight outages

For crime reporting or tips

1 phone number

311-like system

For information about permitting and zoning

SOURCE: CITY OF GEORGETOWNCOMMUNITY IMPACT

the system emphasizes high-quality customer service. Ahead of its implementation, the city has been working with the departments whose calls will be rerouted to the 311 system. Brewer said the city has developed more than 200 scripts that operators will be able to use to address resident concerns. “There are many dierent types of calls,” Brewer said. “[These scripts] will help us have direct answers for the most common questions that Due to residential growth, the city has outgrown its system of handling calls internally. Gipson said the goal of establishing a 311-like system was rst developed in 2021. When the city creates its s- cal year 2023-24 budget, it will include funding to sta and operate the 311-like call center. The customers contact us with.” Establishing the call center

program—including stang—is estimated to cost $1.5-$2.5 million. “We will be stang up in the next scal year to start delivering the services and moving dierent departments, like public works, animal control, code compliance and others over to this 311 type of system,” Brewer said. The city is looking to house the call center at a city building at the southeast corner of I-35 and SE Inner Loop. Longer-range options include continuing to lease space somewhere or potentially building a new facility. Georgetown will also hire repre- sentatives who will have compre- hensive knowledge of city services to sta the program, Brewer said. “It’ll be really important for us to be able to sta it with people who genuinely enjoy helping the public and who portray the image that the customer and Georgetown wants to continue to uphold,” Brewer said.

permitting and code compliance. Each of these calls is handled by a dierent department. If a resident were to call the wrong number, they would be transferred internally, leading to extensive hold times and often resulting in the resident hanging up, Brewer said. “In talking with the council, they had a strong interest in consolidating our customer response team,” Brewer said. “They wanted to gure out a way to help people more directly and just provide better service and more consistent answers.” The 311-like system under consider- ation would maintain the separate 911 dispatch system for emergency calls. The city is working with the Inter- national City/County Management Association, an organization that provides local government entities assistance with implementing best practices to build the 311-like system. ICMA Director of Strategy Manage- ment Lisa Brown said it is important

resulting in time on hold, Assistant City Manager Laurie Brewer said. Alternatively, there are 34 dierent department phone numbers residents can call. A 311-like system would give residents one number to call to access information about all departments, Brewer said. The system Georgetown is looking to implement is being called 311-like because the number residents may end up using might dier from 311 due to geographic constraints. “[Recent events] made us really look at how many dierent depart- ments had separate phone numbers, how confused people could get when they don’t know exactly who to call,” Brewer said. Over the course of the next year, Georgetown ocials will budget for, sta and develop the knowledge needed to implement the 311-like sys- tem, Development Support Manager Seth Gipson said. Ocials said they hope to launch it in September 2024.

GEORGETOWN EDITION • MARCH 2023

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GOVERNMENT Williamson County group petitions for more groundwater protections

The proposed area to be annexed into the Clearwater Underground Water Conservation District includes Leander, Liberty Hill and Florence in addition to portions of Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown and Round Rock. JOINING A GROUNDWATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT

CUWCD boundaries

What is a groundwater conservation district?

• An organization that manages and regulates groundwater production and use How are GCDs created? • By the Texas Legislature • By petitioning the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality • By citizens petitioning an existing GCD for annexation ?

BY GRANT CRAWFORD

The area has an increasing number of wells pumping water from the Trinity Aquifer. According to data compiled by the CUWCD, 576 new wells within Williamson County were drilled into the Trinity Aquifer between 2017-21. Should a portion of Williamson County be annexed into the GCD, state law would require all wells to be registered with the CUWCD. Some of those wells would require a permit. Domestic wells and livestock wells that produce less than 25,000 gallons of water per day, though, would be exempt from permits. CUWCD General Manager Dirk Aaron said wells not exempt from permits include those for sand and gravel mines, concrete plants, cities, municipalities, retail public entities and small businesses that use ground- water. However, those wells already in place would go through an historic use permitting process, be given a meter and report production. Groundwater conservation districts are taxing entities. For scal year 2023, the CUWCD’s adopted tax rate for maintenance and operations is $0.002708 per $100 property valua- tion, or $2.71 per year per $100,000 home valuation. The district has also never adopted a debt service tax rate. Williamson County ocials have pushed back on the GCD, though. Members of the Williamson County Commissioners Court discussed working with the state Legislature to nd other ways to regulate ground- water in addition to hiring an expert

Proposed annexation territory

An area advocacy group is pushing for a portion of Williamson County to be annexed into a groundwater con- servation district based in Bell County, but county ocials are hesitant to cede control to a neighboring entity. The Aquifer Conservation Alliance, a nonprot formed by Williamson County residents, petitioned the Clearwater Underground Water Conservation District to annex the western half of the county to manage the region’s use of the Trinity Aquifer and regulate the drilling of wells. Groundwater conservation districts are political subdivisions of the state, meant to protect underground water resources by controlling and preventing groundwater waste. The ACA said this mechanism is necessary to mitigate the ongoing depletion of the Trinity Aquifer, and 106 residents signed the petition to the CUWCD, higher than the 50-signature threshold needed for Clearwater to consider the annexation. However, it took some convincing for ACA President Keith Elliston to get on board as he initially could not support a government entity telling him what he could do with his well. “I moved out to land so that I could have the water that I wanted and I didn’t have to answer to anybody,” he said. “Then I started to learn that it’s not about telling somebody who can have water and who can’t; it’s about letting you have as much water as you can without someone else being able to come out and take your water.”

183

130

? What do GCDs do? • Establish rules for the spacing and drilling of all water wells • Create groundwater management plans to submit to the Texas Water Development Board for approval • Collect water level and quality data

• Cedes control of a portion of Williamson County to another entity • Other alternatives to regulating groundwater are available What are the drawbacks to annexing the land? ? • Require permits for wells producing 25,000 gallons of water per day • Work with regional partners to establish future desired conditions for groundwater

• To slow the depletion of the Trinity Aquifer • To protect the area’s existing water resources What are the bene ts of joining the CUWCD? ?

SOURCES: CLEARWATER UNDERGROUND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT, WILLIAMSON COUNTY COMMUNITY IMPACT

to evaluate groundwater suciency reports submitted by developers. Precinct 2 County Commissioner Cynthia Long said implementing rules to allow the county to oversee new business developments could resolve “the vast majority” of concerns among residents who signed the petition. “I can’t support something that is this all encompassing and this big, ceding control of the county to another county,” she said. The CUWCD board has received

the petition to annex the land and will hold three public hearings on the matter in March. The board will then vote on whether to accept the petition. Elliston said he expects CUWCD to accept the petition. Then, the GCD would call for a conrmation election, allowing Williamson County residents within the proposed territory to vote on whether to become part of the district. Since the deadline to call for a May vote has passed, Elliston foresees an election to be called for November.

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GEORGETOWN EDITION • MARCH 2023

CAMP GUIDE

GUIDE

A noncomprehensive list of camps in the area

Parents looking for camps for their children have a number of options to choose from in the Georgetown area. This list is not comprehensive.

A+ Academics ART Arts DAY Day NIGHT Overnight SP Sports CH Church

Georgetown 1 Acrotex Gymnastics has an open gym and trampoline area for children to jump around and play. Gymnastics skills are not required. Children must bring a water bottle, snacks and a sack lunch. Comfortable clothes and tennis shoes are required. Ages: 414 Dates: May 30Aug. 16 Cost: $40 per day SP 3100 S. I35 5128635437 www.acrotex.com/georgetown-gym 2 Adventure Camps through the Georgetown Parks and Recreation Depart- ment expose campers to outdoor activities and challenges, promoting the positive use of free time, self-condence, responsibil- ity, self-awareness, problem-solving and decision-making. Potential activities include rock climbing, caving, paintball, horseback riding, kayaking, paddleboarding and shing. Camps include Welcome to Adventure Camp, Welcome to H2O Adventure Camp, Arkansas Travel Camp, XStream H2O Sports Camp and Galveston Island Travel Camp. Ages: 1116 (vary by camp) Dates: vary by camp Cost: $295-$475 (resident), $370-$595 (nonresident) DAY NIGHT SP Location varies by camp 5129303596 https://parks.georgetown.org/camp 3 At Brandy Perryman Shooting Camp , elementary- and middle school-age kids will engage in a four-day shooting-intensive basketball training program that is taught in imitation of all the camps Brandy Perryman attended and loved as a child. In addition to shooting, camp attendees will focus on ball handling, defense, oense and position break- down drills. Ages: 7 (entering second grade)-16 Dates: June 1215 Cost: $260 (through May 31), $285 (starting June 1) SP

1003 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown 5127998891 www.bperrymanshootingcamp.com 4 Camp Goodwater oers a range of day camp activities, such as swimming at the Georgetown Recreation Center and playing in the park, as well as weekly special events and excursions. Campers should bring a backpack with their name on it, lunch, a water bottle, sunscreen and sneakers. Ages: 511 Dates: weekly June 5Aug. 11 Cost: $160 (residents), $200 (nonresidents) DAY Georgetown Recreation Center, 1003 N. Austin Ave. 5129303596 https://parks.georgetown.org/camp 5 At Christ Lutheran Church Day Camp , each camper receives a summer camp T-shirt and water bottle. Activities include games, crafts and music. Campers are required to bring lunch each day, but two snacks and drinks will be provided. Grades: K5 Dates: July 1721 Cost: $75 CH 510 Luther Drive 5128632844 https://clcgtn.org 6 Code Ninjas empowers children to learn technology skills with various activities and topics, such as Roblox, Lego robotics, modifying Minecraft, and learning how to become an in¢uencer or YouTuber. Ages: 714

DBAT Georgetown Summer Camp

Cordovan Art School

COURTESY DBAT GEORGETOWN

COURTESY CORDOVAN ART SCHOOL

such as those focused on superheroes, pottery, game art, anime and more. Ages: 516 Dates: May 30Aug. 18 Cost: varies by camp ART

71 Wildwood Drive, Ste. 203 5126779182 www.danceempower.com 11 Dance Empower Hip Hop Camp covers dierent hip-hop genres, combos and techniques.

816 S. Main St. 5122754040 www.cordovanartschool.com

Ages: 716 Dates: TBD Cost: $275 ART 71 Wildwood Drive, Ste. 203 5126779182 www.danceempower.com

8 At Dance Empower Princess and Tea Party camp, young dancers will have the ability to dress up as their favorite Disney princess or superhero. Ages: 47 Dates: June 2022 Cost: $375 ART 71 Wildwood Drive, Ste. 203 5126779182 www.danceempower.com 9 Dance Empower Neon Camp-Just Dance teaches dierent dance styles and mechanics using a ‘90s theme. Ages: 610 Dates: July 1112 Cost: $275 ART 71 Wildwood Drive, Ste. 203 5126779182 www.danceempower.com 10 Trained instructors lead Dance Empower Ballet Bootcamp , which covers a variety of ballet techniques and variations as well as lyrical and contemporary dance movements. Ages: 818 Dates: June 1315 Cost: $475 ART

12 Dance Empower Tap Camp explores aspects of tap dancing. Students are taught by dance professional Chandra Chinnis. Ages: 618 Dates: TBD July-August Cost: $105 ART 71 Wildwood Drive, Ste. 203 5126779182 www.danceempower.com 13 D-BAT Georgetown Summer Camp is a place where baseball and softball players can learn tactics and skills to develop their game. Attendees need to bring a glove, a bat, a helmet, a water bottle, a sack lunch and snacks. Ages: 512 Dates: June 59, June 1923, July 37, July 1721, July 31- Aug. 4 Cost: $70 (one day), $120 (two days), $170 (three days), $220 (four days), $250 (ve days) SP 101 Patriot Way 5128863228 www.dbatgeorgetown.com 14 Dolce Summer Camp Music Tours provides students an introduction to music. The half-day oering includes lessons in rhythm and three electives classes. Experienced students can join a chamber music intensive. At the conclusion of each camp week, there is a performance. Ages: 518 Dates: June 1923, June 2630, July 1014, July 1721 Cost: $180-$300 ART 1221 Leander Road 5125917833 https://dolcesmusic.com

Dates: May 29Aug. 11 Cost: $250 per week A+ 4853 Williams Drive, Ste. 103 7372538995

www.codeninjas.com/tx-georgetown/camps 7 Cordovan Art School oers art camps throughout the surrounding areas. Full-day, half-day and extended-day options are available. Additionally, campers will have the choice of more than 50 specialized camps,

Camp Goodwater

Christ Lutheran Church Day Camp

Code Ninjas

COURTESY GEORGETOWN RECREATION CENTER

COURTESY CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH

COURTESY CODE NINJAS

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

2023

COMPILED BY TEKIMA JOHNSON

Dolce Summer Camp Music Tours

Georgetown Palace Theatre

Grace Episcopal Church

COURTESY ROUND ROCK EXPRESS

COURTESY DOLCE MUSIC STUDIO

COURTESY GEORGETOWN PALACE THEATRE

COURTESY GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH

WORTH THE TRIP The Round Rock Express Baseball and Softball Camp focuses on instruction and daily mentorship for participants wanting to hone their skills in baseball and softball. Ages: 614 Dates: May 29Aug. 9 Cost: $350 (half day), $525 (full day) per week SP Dell Diamond, 3400 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock 5122382208 www.expressyouthsports.com

16 Georgetown Palace Theatre summer camps give students the opportunity to rehearse and perform an entire production in two weeks. There are ve sessions, each with multiple musicals. Professionals in the performing arts lead each session. No prior ex- perience is necessary. Each two-week session will nish with a performance, and campers will be given a set number of tickets to share with loved ones. Grades: incoming 110 (camps vary by age group), 812 (intensive camps) Dates: June 518, June 19July 2, July 516, July 17- 30, July 31Aug. 13; performances scheduled for Saturday or Sunday at the end of each two-week session

15 Georgetown Parks and Recreation’s Enrichment Camps allow children to learn a new skill. Some oerings this summer include twirling, cooking, art, dance and

Cost: $495-$525 per session ART 206 W. Second St. 5127634532

cheer, Lego, and robotics. Ages: 514 (vary by camp) Dates: vary by camp

www.georgetownpalace.com/camps 17 This year’s Grace Episcopal VBS Summer Camp has the theme Knights of the North Castle. It will include science, music, crafts, recreation, snacks and a Bible story daily. Ages: 2-entering fourth grade Dates: July 2427 Cost: $100 (before May 31), $115 (June 130), $130 (after June 30) CH CONTINUED ON 18

Cost: $125-$225 (resident), $155-$245 (nonresident) A+ ART DAY SP Georgetown Recreation Center, 1003 N. Austin Ave. 5129303596 https://parks.georgetown.org/camp

Call for details

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