New Braunfels Edition | February 2024

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New Braunfels Edition VOLUME 7, ISSUE 3 FEB. 3MAR. 6, 2024

2024 Voter Guide

Resurrecting Lake Dunlap

With the new dam in place, water ow below the dam is much lower, creating a nearly stagnant portion of the Guadalupe River.

FALCON SKY PHOTOGRAPHYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

With the $40M dam complete, some worry about its lasting eect downstream on the Guadalupe River

allows passage of much less water, causing concern for those used to a more robust river.

While residents above the dam are enjoying activity again on the lake, those below the dam are facing a new reality. A 2-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River below the dam is now barely owing, as the new dam

BY ERIC WEILBACHER

After more than four years since the failure of the 91-year-old dam, construction of the rebuilt Lake Dunlap dam was completed in fall 2023, and the lake is once again up to its normal levels.

CONTINUED ON 22

Also in this issue

Impacts: Wedding venue coming to the Comal River (Page 7)

Election: March primary election guide (Page 11)

Development: New apartments, condos now on market (Page 19)

Dining: Butcher Boy cooks like grandma used to (Page 29)

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Hop on over to the Das Rec Leisure pool for our annual Underwater Egg Hunt. Children will hunt for eggs, then receive a goodie bag. A small craft will also be available. Children 7 and under must have a parent in the water within an arm’s reach at all times. Please remember to bring your own baskets and goggles. March 22nd | Das Rec | Cost: $8 early registration | $12 day of event Ages 0-4 years: 5pm-5:30pm | Ages 5-7 years: 5:45pm-6:15pm Ages 8-10 years: 6:30pm-7:00pm | Age 11+ years: 7:15pm-7:45pm

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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION

Impacts

home decor, party supplies, baking supplies and more. They planned to open Feb. 2 as of press time. • Opened Feb. 2 • 651 N. I-35 Business, New Braunfels • www.michaels.com 3 Papa Johns The pizzeria opened its third location in New Braunfels at the Gruene Heights Village shopping center. • Opened Dec. 18 • 1050 FM 306, New Braunfels • www.papajohns.com 1101 4 Chicken Salad Chick The fast-casual chicken salad restaurant serves a variety of chicken salads, sandwiches, soups and salads. • Opened Jan. 17 • 1050 FM 306, Ste. 110, New Braunfels • www.chickensaladchick.com CarePatrol The business offers assistance in navigating living options for seniors. It is operated by Kathryn Worden, who aims to help seniors in the community find the best living options that meet their needs. The new business does not have a brick-and-mortar location. • Opened Oct. 1 • www.carepatrol.com/advisors/kathryn-worden

306

1863

306

NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS RD.

337

BRACKEN CAVE RD.

CREEKSIDE CROSSING

ELIZABETH AVE.

LANDA

ISLAND

337

LAKE DUNLAP

Coming soon

1044

5 Landa Eye Center The eye center offers comprehensive, geriatric and pediatric eye exams. Landa Eye Center also offers Optomap retinal imaging and other treatments. • Opening in late February • 6442 FM 306, Ste. 1103, New Braunfels • www.landaeyecenter.com

725

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• Opened Jan. 28 • 2736 Loop 337, Ste. 104, New Braunfels • www.redcircleboba.com

Now open

Relocations

1 Red Circle Boba The veteran-owned bubble tea shop offers a variety of milk and fruit teas with boba.

6 Rose Family Chiropractic The chiropractic practice relocated from 395 Landa St. to 368 N. Union Ave. in New Braunfels. The practice is family

2 Michaels The store sells a variety of arts and crafts supplies,

HOME FURNISHINGS • DECOR 345 S. BUSINESS 35

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

owned by husband and wife Korey and Kelsey Rose. • Relocated Jan. 22 • 368 N. Union Ave., New Braunfels • www.rosefamilychiro.com 7 Cheez Louise The chips and salsa company La Casa Gomez, which became a food trailer, changed its name and relocated in New Braunfels. Owner Sandra Gomez said she changed the name to Cheez Louise so the food truck could have its own identity. • Relocated and changed name Dec. 30 • 217 E. Mill St., New Braunfels • Facebook: La Casa Gomez 8 Food Coma The food truck opened in September and relocated from the New Braunfels ER & Hospital at 3221 Commercial Circle to NB Toobs. Food Coma is owned by locals Jordan Ward and Ivan Ordonez, and serves Southern-style food with Mexican flavors. • Relocated Dec. 30 • 217 E. Mill St., New Braunfels • Facebook: Food Coma

Now open

In the news

11 Guadalajara Meat Market #2 The family-owned specialty grocer offers a wide selection of fresh vegetables, Mexican spices, juices, candies and more. Guadalajara Meat Market also offers money transfer and 1% check cashing services with Barri Financial Group, a financial service that assists Spanish speakers. • Opened Dec. 22 • 1112 Hwy. 46, New Braunfels • www.guadalajarameatmarket2.com

14 Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch welcomed the birth of a female southern white rhinoceros named Truda on Nov. 17. According to a news release, Truda was born weighing 125 pounds to rhino parents Helga and Kutu. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is one of 300 accredited zoological facilities in the U.S., and of those, fewer than 30 have successfully bred these rhinos, according to a news release. • 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, San Antonio • www.wildliferanchtexas.com

Expansions

9 444 Tubing Company 444 Tubing Company will be adding a new event and wedding venue this spring. Canopy on the Comal will specialize in weddings, catering and events and operate out of the same building as 444 Tubing Company. The venue will feature a bar and a large entry space along with groom’s and bridal suites. • 444 E. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.444tubing.com

• 193 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • Facebook: The Phoenix Saloon

• 295 E. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.princesolmsinn.com

12 New Braunfels Angels The nonprofit organization celebrated its five-year anniversary in November. New Braunfels Angels first formed in 2018 and works to provide support to youth

Closings

15 Kickin K Boutique The boutique opened in 2011 and is owned by New Braunfels native Kourtney Bierschwale. Although the storefront is now closed, Kickin K Boutique will continue to operate online, selling children’s and women’s clothing, purses, jewelry and accessories. • Closed Dec. 30 • 264 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.kickinkboutique.com

In the news

and families in the foster care community. • 391 Landa St., Ste. 112, New Braunfels • www.newbraunfelsagnels.org

10 The Phoenix Saloon Owned by husband-and-wife duo Ross and Debbie Fortune, the bar and restaurant temporarily closed Jan. 2-12 to deep clean, make upgrades to the sound system and take care of various repairs. The bar reopened Jan. 12.

13 The Parlour Bar The bar temporarily closed in 2023 for bar maintenance and changes to the space. The Parlour Bar is slated to reopen in spring 2024.

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Government

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Council denies rezoning request near FM 1044, West County Line Road A request before New Braunfels City Council to rezone approximately 26 acres of land from agricultural to allow for a range of development failed to receive action. How we got here City staff recommended approval of the rezon- ing request at the planning commission’s Jan. 3 meeting as it was consistent with the city’s 2018 Comprehensive Plan, Envision New Braunfels’ Future Land Use and Regional Transportation Plans. However, the planning commission unanimously voted to recommend denial of the request to council. The property is located at 1890 FM 1044 near County Line Road. The city received a petition of 30 signatures from property owners in and around the proposed

REZONING TYPE REQUESTED ACREAGE

337

W. SAN ANTONIO ST.

Townhouse Residential (TH-A)

9.74

SPUR ST.

Multifamily High-Density (R-3H)

8.13

General Business (C-1B)

2.18

West End Area Master Plan moves forward New Braunfels is one step closer to begin- ning revitalization efforts along West San Antonio Street after approving a $150,000 study with Broussard Group Inc. on Jan. 8. The background The West End Area Master Plan is a small area plan that aims to revitalize the San Antonio Street and Spur Street corridor. City officials estimate planning efforts will take roughly nine months.

120-foot width of right of way for County Line Road extension

5.54

1044

SOURCE: CITY OF NEW BRAUNFELS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

zone change opposing the rezoning application, according to agenda documents. Those in opposi- tion of the proposed rezoning cite concerns with infrastructure, traffic and flooding. “It’s super, super dangerous to even get off our street right now,” resident Nashawn Meneley said.

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Election

BY ERIC WEILBACHER

Voter Guide

2024

To view the full list of all contested state and national candidates, visit www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide. Only candidates in contested elections are included. Visit county election websites for information on uncontested races.

KEY

R Republican

D Democrat

*Incumbent

Court of Criminal Appeals judge, Place 7 R Barbara Parker Hervey* R Gina Parker Court of Criminal Appeals judge, Place 8 R Lee Finley R Michelle Slaughter* Local elections State representative, District 44 R John Kuempel* R David Freimarck R Alan Schoolcraft R Greg Switzer Comal County commissioner Precinct 1 R Doug Leecock R Henry White R Joyce Yannuzzi Comal County commissioner Precinct 3 D Tanya Marroquin D Bently Paiz Comal County constable Precinct 4 R David De La Fuente R Alice “Ali” Flores R Chris Garcia Guadalupe County sheriff R Patrick Pinder R Joshua Ray Guadalupe County commissioner Precinct 1 R Dustin Engelke R Jacqueline “Jackie” Ott R James B. Ransdell R Clint Taft R Bryan Underwood

D Mark Gonzalez D Meri Gomez

Dates to know

D Roland Gutierrez D Steven J. Keough D Thierry Tchenko U.S. Congressman, District 15

Feb. 5: Last day to register to vote Feb. 20: First day of early voting March 1: Last day of early voting March 5: Election day

R Vangela Churchill R Monica De La Cruz* D John Villarreal Rigney D Michelle Vallejo U.S. Congressman, District 28 R Jay Furman R Lazaro Garza, Jr. R Jimmy León R Jose Sanz U.S. Congressman, District 35 R Dave Cuddy R Brandon Craig Dunn R Rod Lingsch R Michael Rodriguez R Steven Wright Railroad commissioner R Christie Clark R Christi Craddick* R Corey Howell R James “Jim” Matlock R Petra Reyes D Bill Burch D Katherine Culbert Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 2 D DaSean Jones D Randy Sarosdy Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 4 R John Devine* R Brian Walker Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 6 D Bonnie Lee Goldstein D Joe Pool Presiding judge, Court of Criminal Appeals R Sharon Keller* R David J. Schenck

Where to vote

Any voter can cast a ballot in the Republican or Democratic primary, but not both. Comal County and Guadalupe County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.co.comal.tx.us/Elections.htm or www.co.guadalupe. tx.us/elections/index.php for polling locations.

Sample ballot

Federal election U.S. President R Ryan L. Binkley R Chris Christie R Ron DeSantis R Nikki Haley R Asa Hutchinson

R Vivek Ramaswamy R David Stuckenberg R Donald J. Trump D Joseph R. Biden, Jr.* D Gabriel A. Cornejo D Star Locke D Frankie Lozada D Armando “Mando” Perez-Serrato

D Dean Phillips D Cenk Uygur D Marianne Williamson State elections U.S. Senator R Ted Cruz* R Holland “Redd” Gibson R R.E. “Rufus” Lopez D A. “Robert” Hassan D Carl Oscar Sherman D Colin Allred D Heli Rodriguez Prilliman

SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, COMAL COUNTY, GUADALUPE COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION

Election

*INCUMBENT

Texas State Representative, District 44, Republican Party

What is the most important issue facing residents and how would you address it?

What issues outside of the most important one already mentioned are a high priority for you?

Border security. We’ve increased spending at the border by billions of dollars but will have to take additional strong conservative steps if the federal government won’t act. I’ll continue to support any bill that sends much-needed resources to the border and keeps trackers and criminals out of our communities.

Property taxes. Voters approved $18 billion in property tax relief, but I’m reminded all the time, everywhere I go, that we in Austin have to keep working toward a meaningful, lasting reduction. Homeowners need to feel like they own their property and aren’t stuck renting it from the government.

John Kuempel* Occupation: Salesman Relevant experience: Born and raised in Guadalupe County; incumbent; chair, House committees on Higher Education and Licensing www.johnkuempel.com

The security of the southern border is the foremost issue to the residents of HD 44. Fentanyl and crime are impacting communities all over Texas. To address this issue, I am committed to ghting for border security by drafting comprehensive legislation aimed at securing our border.

I believe in empowering parents in our community. I stand with Governor Abbott and support parents’ ability to make the decisions about their child’s education. I want to ght for this in Austin to ensure that children receive the best possible education.

Alan Schoolcraft Occupation: CEO/business owner Relevant experience: Business owner, attorney, former state representative www.alanschoolcraftfortexas.com

Closing the border is the single most important act to protect all Texans. The legislative branch of government is equal in its authority and does not need the governor to act alone. There are 42 good constitutional candidates who would pass a bill to close the border.

Taxes. There are 63 taxes that have been brought to my attention. These taxes include property tax— exist solely to separate Texans from their money. Repealing these taxes, and eliminating toll roads. Government should not be proteering from the citizenry.

Greg Switzer Occupation: Retired

Relevant experience: Advocate for Save the Alamo, Don’t Move the Cenotaph, etc. www.switzerfortexas.com

The most important issue is repelling the invasion of our southern border because, without sovereignty, nothing else matters. As your next state representative, I will support any legislation that will assist in completing this mission. Additionally, I will work to eliminate incentives that drive illegal aliens to cross our border.

The other three major issues I would like to address are the empowerment of parents (passing school choice), cutting government spending (Texas can do its part to help the ination problem), and passing term limits for all oceholders because a comfortable representative is an ineective representative.

David Freimarck Occupation: Small business owner Relevant experience: Small business owner and federal contracts/pricing specialist www.electfreimarck.com

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ERIC WEILBACHER

Guadalupe County commissioner, Precinct 1, Republican Party

What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it if elected?

Dustin Engelke Occupation: Accounts Manager and Optimization Specialist Relevant experience: Manage multimillion dollar accounts ... Facebook: Dustin Engelke for County Commissioner

Jackie Ott Occupation: Attorney and judge Relevant experience: Property, real estate, and business law attorney, former assistant Guadalupe County attorney www.ott4texas.com

James B Ransdell Occupation: Retired

Relevant experience: 30 years large civil engineering projects, 9 years with Guadalupe County Road & Bridge Department www.ransdellpct1.com

In the face of growth, we cannot overlook the importance of public safety. From modernizing equipment to improving training programs, let’s stand together in support of those who dedicate their lives to our well-being. Investing and building infrastructure to support growth is crucial for our county.

Public safety! With dedicated, hard work. We must prioritize funding to enable law enforcement and rst responders to do their jobs eectively, and quality roads for everyone’s ecient transport. Swift response to issues that arise, open communication with the public, county departments, and staying up to date with available technology.

Guadalupe County residents face a crucial challenge in our rapid growth. To address this, I’m committed to enhancing roadways, public safety and EMS services as part of my dedication to serving our community’s needs.

Clint Taft Occupation: Manufacturing business owner Relevant experience: Small- business owner for 25 years, former corporate mid-level manager www.clinttaft.com

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50

Bryan Underwood Occupation: Owner, Underwood Farms, Underwood Arms Training Relevant experience: 23 years as a licensed general contractor www.underwoodforpct1.com

words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/ voter-guide.

The most important issue facing residents is our infrastructure not keeping up with growth. Our roads are in the worst shape that I have seen in my lifetime. Well-maintained roads are essential to attract businesses and provide emergency services. One of my priorities will be to lead road improvement initiatives.

Unprecedented growth in our county is straining our services. I am anxiously looking forward to going to work on the rst day to guide improvements on our existing roads, water/wastewater service, sheri’s department/emergency management while planning for our future. Eciency with spending is a top priority.

NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION

Election

Comal County Commissioner Precinct 1, Republican Party

What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it if elected?

Doug Leecock Occupation: Semi-retired active community servant Relevant experience: Operations management focused businessman with denitive abilities in leadership www.leecockforcomal.com

Henry White Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

Joyce Yannuzzi Occupation: District director for State Senator Donna Campbell Relevant experience: I work on issues important to constituents every day in my current job. www.JoyceYannuzzi.com

Growth of the population and its impact on the budget. We must ensure that policies and budgets recognize the increased costs of living and do not unnecessarily add to these costs while we continue to fulll our responsibility to provide law enforcement, maintain roads and other valued services.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire before press time.

Water. I will work with GBRA and local water companies to nd better solutions to accommodate the growth that’s here and the growth that’s coming. If we don’t work together to nd better solutions, the new norm will be Canyon Lake at 55% or lower.

THE

LEARN MORE AT TBARM.ORG

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ERIC WEILBACHER

Comal County Commissioner Precinct 3, Democratic Party

What is the most important issue facing residents, and how would you address it?

Tanya Marroquin Occupation: High school science teacher Relevant experience: Mom, teacher, student www.marroquinforcommissioner.com

Bently Paiz Occupation: Barista

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50

Relevant experience: Former U.S. congressional campaign staer, Guada-Coma Progressive Coalition www.bently4comalcounty.com

When I tell people I am running for commissioner I get asked the same thing, “Great! Do something about all of the development.” I want people to know there is someone on the Commissioners Court ghting for their vision of New Braunfels. I am tenacious and ask the hard questions.

Comal County, the fastest-growing county in the U.S., demands adaptability from our elected ocials. Amidst the growth, a strategic plan is imperative to eectively manage our region’s future expansion and safeguard the well-being of our community.

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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION

Education

BY SIERRA MARTIN

New district leadership selected in NBISD New Braunfels ISD has hired new sta to occupy the Long Creek High School band direc- tor, head football coach and chief of schools positions in the district. Matthew DeLoach has accepted the position as the district’s new chief of schools. Previously, DeLoach served as principal of Davenport High School and has 17 years of experience in public education. “I am both thrilled and honored to accept this position at NBISD,” DeLoach said. “I look forward to the journey ahead and the positive impact we can create together.” The details Adam Harvey has been named as the rst head football coach and boys athletic coordinator at Long Creek High School. He spent the last two football seasons as the co-defensive coordinator

Comal ISD approves 202425 calendar The 2024-25 academic calendar for Comal ISD students and sta has been approved by the Comal ISD board of trustees. The District Education Improvement Council, campus administrators, support services sta, teachers, students and parents all gave their input on creating the academic calendar for next year. A survey was also conducted that received over 5,000 responses, according to CISD Superintendent John Chapman III. The highlights • First day of school: Aug. 20, 2024 • Thanksgiving break: Nov. 25-29, 2024 • Holiday break: Dec. 23, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025

Kyle Day

Matthew DeLoach Adam Harvey

and secondary coach of Clemens High School, located in Schertz. Kyle Day will be the band director for Long Creek High School, which is anticipated to open this fall. Day is the New Braunfels High School associate director of bands, and specializes in trumpet and bass instruments. Day has worked at NBHS since 2016, with responsibilities including facilitating the marching band program and chamber music program. “I am extremely grateful to have the opportunity to help build a new band program and to become a part of the legacy of Long Creek,” Day said.

• Spring break: March 17-25, 2025 • Last day of school: May 22, 2025

Filing period open for May school board elections

Comal ISD district Comal ISD current trustee District 1 Tim Hennessee District 2 Courtney Biasatti District 3 Michelle Ross Local districts trustee positions

Local school boards will have positions open on the May 4 election ballot. In Comal ISD there will be three positions on the ballot: Districts 1, 2 and 5. There are two trustee positions up for election in New Braunfels ISD on the May 4 ballot, including single-member Districts 3 and 5. Each school district elects seven board members to serve three-year terms.

The details The Comal ISD board voted to call the elec- tion during a regular meeting Jan. 25. The New Braunfels board of trustees voted to call the election Jan. 8. Both districts are accepting applications for the positions until Feb. 16.

New Braunfels ISD current trustee

New Braunfels ISD

District 3 District 5

Eric Bergquist

Steve Minus SOURCES: NEW BRAUNFELS ISD, COMAL ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY HANNAH NORTON

What to know about the new FAFSA

Quotes of note

Higher Education Coordinating Board pushed its priority financial aid application deadline to March 15, but individual schools may offer aid on a first-come, first-served basis. The U.S. Department of Education is expected to begin sending information from completed FAFSAs to schools in late January. Applicants will answer less than 50 questions for the new FAFSA, down from 108. The form takes around an hour to complete, but some people may answer as few as 18 questions depending on their individual circumstances. Officials said 610,000 more students from low-income backgrounds will qualify for federal Pell Grants. This includes over 51,000 Texans, the department of education reported.

Current and prospective college students applying for financial aid will likely have a more streamlined experience with the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Mandated by Congress, the new form includes fewer questions and a new formula to determine aid eligibility. The U.S. Department of Education launched the redesigned application in late December— nearly 3 months later than normal—and it is now available online 24/7. Over 1 million students nationwide had completed the FAFSA by Jan. 8, officials said. Students must fill out the form to qualify for federal student loans, grants, work-study programs and some scholarships. The Texas

"Financial aid is extremely important, particularly in this day and age, with the high cost of education. So you’re going to have to be an educated consumer." JACK WALLACE, THE DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS FOR YREFY, A STUDENT LOAN REFINANCE COMPANY

"We have heard from students and families that the new FAFSA form is a better experience that’s easier to complete. We will continue to communicate directly with students, families, and schools about how they can access the maximum support available to them to pursue their higher education dreams." RICHARD CORDRAY, FEDERAL STUDENT AID CHIEF

A streamlined application process

The 2024-25 FAFSA was redesigned after Congress passed the FUTURE Act and the FAFSA Simplification Act. The new form is expected to be more user-friendly and take less time to fill out. Here are some key changes to the application: All “contributors,” including parents, stepparents and spouses, must provide financial information. Contributors will be identified based on a student’s answers on the form.

The Internal Revenue Service will transfer students’ and their families’ tax information directly to their FAFSA application.

Next steps

A new formula, called the Student Aid Index, will be used to determine applicants’ eligibility for financial aid.

The 2024-25 FAFSA will be available online through June 30, 2025, but many states and schools set earlier deadlines. Under Texas law, high school seniors are required to complete the FAFSA, a state financial aid application or an opt-out form to graduate. Future application should open on Oct. 1.

Applicants may list up to 20 colleges or universities on their application. They were previously limited to 10.

Families with multiple students in college will no longer qualify for extra aid, known as a “sibling discount.”

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION

Real estate

Development

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN & ERIC WEILBACHER

The median home sales price fell year over year in December in New Braunfels’ ZIP codes, down 6.8% and 10.72% in 78130 and 78132, respectively. Residential market data

The Devereaux set to open in mid-March

Freiheit Village-area condos now for sale The Mercer, a 42-unit condominium com- munity located at Freiheit Village in New Braunfels, reached completion in the fall. The details The project broke ground in spring 2022 and was developed by Max Caruana. Caruana said the Mercer has 37 residential one- and two-bedroom units along with ve live-work units with storefront commercial space on the ground oor.

December 2022

December 2023

Average home price in the last 6 months

Homes sold

New listings

-11.63%

-19.7%

+17.9%

+38.3%

78132 $628,360

A new multifamily apartment complex is nearly complete o Loop 337 at 1661 Independence Drive, New Braunfels. Construction is anticipated to be completed, and the building will be move-in ready by mid-March, according to Ashley Sinclair with Village Green, an apartment management company. The gist The Devereaux will consist of 240 units in one four-story mid-rise apartment building serviced by three elevators. The building is insured by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, but its units will be rented at market rates without any subsidies or vouchers, said Scott Hudman, a spokesman for the agency. The units will vary in size from studios to three-bedroom apartments, but the majority (136 units) will be one-bedroom and two-bed- room apartments (80 units). Rent ranges from

Blazer Construction anticipates nishing construction in spring of this year.

78130 $368,073

AMIRA VAN LEEUWENCOMMUNITY IMPACT

78132

78130

78132

78130

78132

$1,275-$2,300 per month. A clubhouse and leasing oce are incorporated into the rst two oors of the building. Amenities include a resort-style swimming pool, tness center, dog park, outdoor kitchen, grilling stations and more. The total cost of the project is $51 million, according to Sinclair. In addition to fencing and controlled-access gates, the Devereaux will oer various parking options, including carports and garages totaling 408 spaces, according to Hudman.

Median home sales price

78130

December

2022

2023

$604,701

$539,900

78132

1101

CREEKSIDE CROSSING

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY FOUR RIVERS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS 8306256954 WWW.FOURRIVERSREALTORS.COM

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$340,000

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What’s more, we are proud to announce a new full-service branch on Highway 46 between Seguin and New Braunfels is NOW OPEN. Stop by 1349 Hwy 46 South (Hwy 46 @ Saengerhalle Rd) or visit sonorabank.com to learn more about what makes us a better bank.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY SIERRA MARTIN

Residents now have the opportunity to provide feedback on two road projects passed by voters as part of the transportation portion of the city of New Braunfels’ 2023 bond election. Those include the Common Street improvement project as well as the Barbarosa Road and Saur Lane improvement project. The city of New Braunfels will hold two open house meetings to review the preliminary designs for the two projects. The meetings will allow residents to view project schematics, review the layout and design components of the projects, and provide feedback on the plans before construction begins, according to a news release. Input sought on 2 road projects

The framework

306

Common Street will be widened from Loop 337 to FM 306 to a four-lane road with sidewalks, medians, left-turn lanes and two- way turn lanes, along with other upgrades. This is slated to cost around $25 million. For the Barbarosa Road/Saur Lane improvement project, Construction would begin from FM 1101 to Saengerhalle Road. Barbarosa Road, which turns into Saur Lane, will be widened from two lanes to four lanes with sidewalks, traffic signals and turn lanes. The projects is slated to cost around $8 million. The Common Street Improvement Project open house will be held Feb. 7, 6-8 p.m., and the Barbarosa Road/Saur Lane Improvement Project open house will be held Feb. 20, 6-8 p.m. Both forums will take place at the NBU Service Center, Training Center Conference Room, 355 FM 306.

COMMON ST.

1101

CREEKSIDE CROSSING

SAENGERHALLE RD.

SAUR LN.

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NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION

From the cover

Resurrecting Lake Dunlap

How we got here

Two-minute impact

Securing resources and backing from stake- holders for the Lake Dunlap dam project took two years from the dam failing in 2019 to construction breaking ground.

Construction of the dam was completed in 2023 and lake levels returned to normal by the end of the year. However, the new dam has not returned the river to the state it was in under the previous construction. Because of the lower levels down river, residents below the dam are asking if it is permissible to cut o river ow so drastically. “This stretch of river is devastating. It’s horrible,” said Tim White, who owns land immediately below the dam. “I got cypress trees down there that are three feet out of water,” White said.

Lake Dunlap consists of a 9-mile, 410-acre stretch of the Guadalupe River east of I-35 in New Braunfels. It is one of six dams operated by the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority along the Guadalupe River. After the dam breached one of its spill gates, draining the lake in May 2019, residents along the lake formed a Water Control and Improvement District—along with the help of elected ocials—to tax themselves in order to come up with some of the funding to rebuild the dam.

1928 Construction of dam is completed

May2019 One of three spill gates fails and mostly drains Lake Dunlap

Feb. 2020 The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality approves the creation of the Water Control and Improvement District

June 2020 Financing and

operation agreement is reached between Lake Dunlap WCID and the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority should the district receive voter approval for the WCID to form Jan. 2021 GBRA secures $40 million in bond funding for dam through the Texas Water Development Board’s state revolving fund Feb. 2023 Zachry Construction begins installing the rst of three Hydraulic Crest Gates of the dam

Nov. 2020 Voters approve creation of Lake

Dunlap WCID, tax rate and up to $40 million in bonds

Most boat docks along the lake were dried up as seen in this May 2019 le photo.

RACHAL ELLIOTTCOMMUNITY IMPACT

May 2021 Construction begins to rebuild Lake Dunlap dam

Oct. 2023 Lake Dunlap is virtually back to its historic levels

By October 2023 the lake was fully relled to pre-dam collapse levels.

SIERRA MARTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCES: GUADALUPEBLANCO RIVER AUTHORITY, LAKE DUNLAP WCID, ZACHRY CONSTRUCTION, TEXAS WATER DEVELOPMENT BOARDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ERIC WEILBACHER

The details

What they're saying

127

The new Lake Dunlap dam is more ecient at directing water through the hydroelectric gen- erating facility than the old dam, Dunlap WCID President Doug Harrison said. “More water goes down the canal, and less water leaks past the dam,” he said. The canal water channel returns to the river at the hydroelectric generation house. “The Dunlap facility has absolutely no impact on ow rates or volumes in [Lake] McQueeney or any other lakes,” he said. Water ow over the past nearly ve years was unusually high due to the dam’s failure, according to GBRA. The dam is permitted under a Texas Commis- sion on Environmental Quality permit dating back to 1914, said Lindsay Campbell, a spokesperson for GBRA, in an email. “That authorizes how and when water is to be conveyed through the canal and powerhouse at Lake Dunlap. With the successful rehabilitation of Lake Dunlap, normal operations have resumed consistent with this permit,” Campbell said. According to Zachry Construction, the com- pany that rebuilt the dam, the new dam was built upon the two old spill gates left standing, and an additional 15-foot width of new concrete was added. That gave White reason to question why a new environmental permit wasn’t deemed necessary when the new dam diers in design than the older dam. Due to stagnating water, sh are stuck in small pools and ponds just below the dam, inviting birds to gather and eat them, White said. “It’s great to see the birds. But the birds are eating dead clams and sh. It’s like a smorgasbord for them because the sh have nowhere to go,” White said.

“For my whole life, we had pretty decent ow ... it’s pretty upsetting to go from having a river to not having a river.“ PHILLIP SCHULZE, LANDOWNER BELOW THE DAM

LAKE DUNLAP

Diversion canal

“Lake Dunlap is back! Waterfront property owners and visitors are able to use the lake as it has been for 100 years.” DOUG HARRISON, PRESIDENT, LAKE DUNLAP WCID

Lake Dunlap dam

GUADALUPE RIVER

Hydroelectric generation house

SOURCE: GBRACOMMUNITY IMPACT

One more thing

According to Victoria Cann, a spokesperson for TCEQ, the water rights for Lake Dunlap authorize diversion but do not require that a specic volume of water pass downstream of the dam. That assertion has not stopped locals from challenging the new dam’s operations. They contend no entity should be able to cut the water ow that signicantly and are seeking out any state entity or other actor that will hear their case to address the issue. “Our argument is, you can’t eliminate a stretch of river that’s been there since the dawn of time,” White said.

Homes below the canal exit on the Guadalupe River are still experiencing lower water levels.

SIERRA MARTINCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Blending Generations Of Furniture And Family

Downtown New Braunfels 283 S. Seguin Ave.

NEW BRAUNFELS EDITION

Events

Ballet Texas Presents ‘LOVE Stories’ LOVE Stories is an exhibit of modern and contemporary dance through the lenses of local choreographers. The performance is not recommended for children under 7 years of age. • Feb. 16, 7-9 p.m. • $30-$70 • Brauntex Theatre, 290 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.brauntex.org New Braunfels Home and Garden Show The event will have home and garden demonstrations and workshops, kid-friendly activities and food. • Feb. 17-18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sat.), 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Sun.) • $10 (general admission), free (military, seniors, first responders, teachers and ages 12 and under) • New Braunfels Civic & Convention Center,

February

‘Four Old Broads on The High Seas’ The Circle Arts Theatre presents “Four Old Broads on the High Seas.” Join Beatrice, Imogene, Eaddy and Maude on their Sassy Senior Cruise to the Bahamas. • Feb. 2-25, 7:30 p.m. (Fri.-Sat.), 2 p.m. (Sun.) • $25 • Circle Arts Theatre, 124 Elizabeth Ave., New Braunfels • www.circleartstheatre.org/shows Made with Love Vendor Market Enjoy burgers, cold drinks and small-business shopping from local vendors and artisan makers. • Feb. 10, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • Freiheit Country Store, 2157 FM 1101, New Braunfels • www.playinnewbraunfels.com Fat Tuesday Celebration Krause’s Cafe will kick off Mardi Gras with live band Zydeco Blanco. Food specials include shrimp boil, boudain, gumbo, mahi-mahi and beignets. • Feb. 13, 6-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • Krause’s Cafe, 148 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.krausescafe.com/events Mardi Gras Festival Krause’s Cafe will celebrate Mardi Gras with a week of Mardi Gras dishes and 32-ounce hurricane cocktails. • Feb. 14-18, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • Krause’s Cafe, 148 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.krausescafe.com/events Valentine’s Day Party Join the McKenna Children’s Museum for a Valentine’s Day party, including drinks, snacks and a fun craft. • Feb. 14, 2 p.m. • $8 • McKenna Children’s Museum, 801 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.mckennakids.org/events

benefit the Comal County A&M Club Scholarship Fund. • March 3, 2-4 p.m. • $26-$51 • Brauntex Theatre, 290 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.brauntex.org New Braunfels KidsFest The event will have plenty of kids activities, including a bouncy castle, a dance party and stage performances. Parents can shop from boutiques while the kids play. • March 9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; March 10, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • $10 (adults), $7 (military and seniors), free (ages 3 and under) • New Braunfels Civic & Convention Center, Troutfest TX 2024 Expo Guadalupe River Trout Unlimited’s Troutfest TX 2024 will include a weekend expo with fly fishing lessons, vendor booths and a silent auction. GRTU is a nonprofit focused on protecting local cold water resources. • Feb. 17-18, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sat.), 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Sun.) • Free (admission) • Lazy L&L Campgrounds, 11699 River Road, New Braunfels • www.grtu.org

375 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.hillcountryconferences.com

March

Anything Goes Exhibit The New Braunfels Art League will display art on any subject matter using any medium. • Through March 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; March 3, noon-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • New Braunfels Art League, 239 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels • www.thenewbraunfelsartleague.com ‘The Cat in the Hat’ Join New Braunfels Performing Arts for their production of “The Cat in the Hat.” • March 1, 6:30 p.m.; March 2, 1 p.m. • $12 • New Braunfels Performing Arts, 131 Gattuso Road, New Braunfels • www.nbperformingarts.com/events Texas A&M Singing Cadets The Texas A&M Singing Cadets repertoire includes Christian hymns, A&M school songs, Southern standards, and hits from the ‘40s, ‘50s, and ‘60s. Some proceeds

375 S. Castell Ave., New Braunfels • www.hillcountryconferences.com

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