San Marcos - Buda - Kyle Edition | October 2023

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 13, ISSUE 6 OCT. 19NOV. 14, 2023

2023 Voter Guide

Keeping students safe New legislation oers funding for safety, but critics claim it’s not enough With House Bill 3 in eect—requiring one armed guard at every public and open- enrollment charter school—school districts are struggling to comply, while understaed law enforcement agencies lack the ocers to help.

INSIDE

Hays County Sheri’s Oce Deputy Manuel Moreno, a school resource ocer for Hays CISD, conducts a standard response protocol drill at Lehman High School.

COURTESY MOSES LEOSHAYS CISD

Also in this issue

Impacts: Progress Coee + Beer now open in Buda (Page 8)

Voter guide: Four candidates run for mayor of Kyle (Page 12)

Events: Michelada Festival comes to Kyle on Nov. 11 (Page 23)

Business: Galaxy Bikes keeps San Marcos’ gears greased (Page 25)

Your journey to

brings out our best.

Find pneumonia care ranked among the best in the nation at BSWHealth.com/Buda.

5330 Overpass Road, Buda, TX 78610

Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2023 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-ATX-881580 L/GD

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CROSSWINDSTEXAS.COM

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Already have solar? HESOLAR is now installing batteries for all solar owners.

Home Batteries are becoming more and more popular…. Since the winter storm of 2021, we’ve seen a huge increase in demand for home batteries. Home batteries can compliment solar panels and provide the following benefits for homeowners: The Hoffman Brothers have been installing solar panels and battery back up for over 10 years! Tradi- tionally, we only added batteries for existing HESO- LAR customers. We are happy to announce that we will begin installing batteries for ALL solar owners, reagardless of original installer. The addition of batteries to a solar panel system allows the homeowner to back up their loads and continue to use their solar panels during a power outage. Multiple batteries can be stacked to back up an entire home! Keep the lights on during a power outage.

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Without batteries, a lot of the energy produced by solar panels on a home will flow back into the grid. With batteries, excess solar energy can be stored in the batteries instead of exporting to the grid. The solar energy that is stored in the batteries can be used to feed the home loads later on in the day or later at night. Best of all, more savings! – Many Texans have experi- enced an increase in their electricity rates. At the same time, some electric providers are starting to provide less credit for exported solar energy (what gives?) Batteries help homeowners use more of their solar energy resulting in even lower electric bills. Transportation Independence. Electric vehicles can charge directly from solar panels and home batteries allowing you to stay on the move during an extended grid outage. The Hoffman Brothers are helping current customers prepare for future Vehicle to Home applications where you can use an electric vehicle to assist a home energy system during a power outage.

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About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Brittany Anderson Elle Bent Amanda Cutshall Zara Flores Kameryn Griesser Sierra Martin Katy McAfee Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Zacharia Washington Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Roger Ibanez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Brendan Rodriguez

Heather Demere General Manager

Eric Weilbacher Editor

Joseph Veloz Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Kasey Salisbury Account Executive Adrian Martinez Managing Editor Miranda Jaimes Art Production Manager Rachal Elliott

Travis Baker Publisher

Correction: Volume 13, Issue 5 On Page 18, the graphic titled San Marcos, Buda and Kyle 2023 water usage should read "millions of gallons of water per month."

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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

BLANCO RIVER

Impacts

5 San Marcos Jiu Jitsu The locally owned martial arts gym specializes in Brazilian jiujitsu and No Gi Grappling for all ages, levels and styles. • Opened Sept. 5 • 1104 Thorpe Lane, Ste. P, San Marcos • www.smjiujitsu.com Pros PM The property management company expanded its services into San Marcos, New Braunfels, Seguin and Canyon Lake in July. • Opened July 25 • www.prospm.com

AQUARENA SPRINGS DR.

DANCING OAKS LN.

KISSING TREE LN.

THORPE LN.

San Marcos

N. LBJ DR.

WONDER WORLD DR.

MEDICAL PKWY.

Coming soon

SAN MARCOS RIVER

6 Harbor Freight Tools The California-based retailer sells a variety of power and hand tools, plumbing and electrical equipment,

142

123

11 Martindale

generators, and more. • Opening this winter • 4234 S. I-35, San Marcos • www.harborfreight.com

1102

1979

New Braunfels

Relocations

MAP NOT TO SCALE

7 San Marcos Youth Service Bureau The local nonprofit relocated from its space at 518 S. Guadalupe St., San Marcos, to be closer to schools and help accommodate transportation needs. The nonprofit provides free after-school and summer programs for kids ages 11-17 who are considered at risk. • Relocated Sept. 5 • 2004-B Medical Parkway, San Marcos • www.ysb.org

3 Marble Slab Creamery The small-batch ice cream franchise opened a new location at the Tanger Outlets alongside sister brand Great American Cookies. • Opened July 24 • 4015 I-35, Ste. 605, San Marcos • www.marbleslab.com 4 Redwood Studios The recording studio offers mixing, mastering, production and videography. • Opened Sept. 14

Now open

1 Tarbox & Brown Restaurant & Bar The restaurant offers a rotating seasonal menu featuring American and international fare with a Texas twist. • Opened Aug. 25 • 201 Kissing Tree Lane, Bldg. 5, San Marcos • www.tarboxandbrown.com 2 The Joint Chiropractic The national franchise opened a new location in San Marcos. • Opened Sept. 5 • 102 Wonder World Drive, Ste. 405, San Marcos • www.thejoint.com

Expansions

8 Bobcat Stadium Texas State University football fans will be able to try a new and inspired concessions menu and cocktails at the Bobcat Stadium this season. The new menu items include a quarter-pound hot dog wrapped in bacon and

• 3705 Redwood Road, San Marcos • www.redwoodsoundstudios.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ZARA FLORES, SIERRA MARTIN & AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

a signature cocktail made with blue Curaçao, vodka, sprite and fresh lemon juice. • Expanded Sept. 16 • 1100 Aquarena Springs Drive, San Marcos • www.txst.com/sports/football

Now Open

In the news

9 Riley’s Tavern Located off Hunter Road between New Braunfels and San Marcos, Riley’s Tavern celebrated its 90th business anniversary Sept. 30. The tavern was recognized in 2013 as a historic landmark by the Texas Historical Commission and features a full bar, a beer garden, and indoor and outdoor stages. • 8894 FM 1102, New Braunfels • www.rileystavern.com

Closings

10 Stellar Coffee Co. The coffee shop shuttered its doors after a decade of business in the San Marcos community, the owners announced in an Instagram post. • Closed Sept. 9 • 232 N. LBJ Drive, Ste. 101, San Marcos

11 Duett’s Texas Club The new bar, restaurant and music venue is owned by husband and wife Katie and Ryan Grametbaur as well as Maury Domengeaux and Steve Schossareck. Duett’s Texas Club was named after the Grametbaurs’ daughter, Duetta.

Katie Grametbaur said the business will offer the small town’s first sold mixed beverages since 1882. • Opened Oct. 14 • 420 Main St., Martindale • www.duettstx.com

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Impacts

5 Psychological Associates of Central Texas The clinic offers therapy in person or via telehealth as well as psychological assessments to children and adults. • Opened Sept. 11 • 142 Cimarron Park Loop, Ste. A, Buda • www.pactpllc.com 6 Wrap Godz 512 The food truck, located at The Railhouse Bar in Kyle, offers a variety of tortilla wraps and sides. • Opened Sept. 3 • 107 E. Center St., Kyle • www.facebook.com/wrapgodz512 7 Oak River Dental Care A new dental office opened in Kyle. Doctors of Dental Surgery Yesha Golwala and Tina Tofighi will offer a

DOVE DR.

45 TOLL

CIMARRON PARK LOOP

967

Buda

1626

2001

WINDY HILL RD.

2001

KOHLERS CROSSING

150

range of services. • Opened Sept. 29

WETZEL

• 5180 S. FM 1626, Ste. 100, Kyle • www.oakriverdentalcare.com

KYLE PKWY.

Coming soon

OLD HWY 81

BLANCO RIVER

Kyle

8 Texas Roadhouse The restaurant chain is coming to Kyle, according to Endeavor Real Estate Group. The location is in its permitting phase, and there is not a timeline available, according to an email from a Texas Roadhouse public relations representative. • Opening TBD • 19183 I-35, Kyle • www.texasroadhouse.com 9 Dentist at Plum Creek The dental office is under construction. The practice will be operated by Mahesh Dholariya. • Opening in November • 400 Wetzel, Ste. A, Kyle • www.dentistatplumcreek.com

MAP NOT TO SCALE

150

3 Spoon + Fork Thai Kitchen The restaurant offers an array of entrees, including chili paste stir fry, Rama Long Song, Thai basil and more. • Opened Sept. 14

Now open

1 Inta Juice The smoothie shop celebrated its grand opening in Kyle. It offers a variety of smoothies, juices and acai bowls. • Opened Sept. 2 • 5401 FM 1626, Ste. 185, Kyle • www.intajuice.com 2 Academy Sports + Outdoors The retail chain offers a variety of men’s and women’s apparel along with gym and outdoor equipment. • Opened Sept. 17 • 5755 Kyle Parkway, Ste. 200, Kyle • www.academy.com

• 5160 FM 1626, Ste. 100, Kyle • www.spoonandforkkitchen.com

4 Progress Coffee + Beer The bar and coffee shop hybrid offers an assortment of beverages. The Buda location also features a number of food trucks. • Opened Aug. 25 • 25750 FM 2001, Buda • www.progresscoffee.com/home/buda

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BY ZARA FLORES & AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

In the news

Now open

10 Kyle Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association The organization is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. The association gives citizen police academy participants the opportunity to maintain a working relationship with the police department. • 1700 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle • www.facebook.com/kylecitizens 11 VeinSolutions The vein treatment centers celebrated 20 years of providing cosmetic and therapeutic vein care in the Austin metro area Aug. 20. • 930 Kohlers Crossing, Ste. 650, Kyle • www.veinsolutionsaustin.com

Closings

13 Pet Paradise The Florida-based pet boarding service offers dog and cat boarding along with grooming services in Kyle. This is the franchise’s 10th location in Texas. Pet Paradise also offers a day camp, ear cleanings, early check-ins, nail trims and ice cream for dogs.

• Opened Sept. 9 • 2361 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle • www.petparadise.com/kyle.htm

12 Taqueria El Jalapeno The business debuted last summer and offered an array of traditional Mexican dishes, such as enchiladas, tacos and assorted plates. • Closed Sept. 23 • 905 N. Old Hwy. 81, Kyle

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Boo-da Halloween and Center Street Trick or Treat events on 10/28! Invite a friend to join the fun and to learn more about our school.

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Best Taproom and Craft Beer selection in the Buda, Kyle, and San Marcos area

Offering 24 craft beers on draft rotated on a weekly basis. We have 50+ Craft beers in packages along with a variety of Wine, Ciders, Seltzers, Non-Alcoholic Beers, and specialty Sodas We off er weekly sales and punch card discount for Growler Fills.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY ZARA FLORES

New programs funded in Kyle budget For fiscal year 2023-24, Kyle officials developed a budget that highlights invest- ments in the city’s employees and residents, according to budget documents. City Council adopted the budget and the city’s

Buda adopts lowest property tax rate in years Buda’s new budget for the upcoming 2023-24 fiscal year focuses on strategic goals, such as managing the city’s growth, funding public safety, and both short- and long-term projects. The overview The budget and its accompanying tax rate at $0.3379 per $100 valuation were adopted by City Council on Sept. 19. The tax rate is on the lower end of the spectrum in comparison to other cities in the Austin area. The city’s projected expenditures outweigh the projected revenue by nearly $10 million; however, the city started the budget with a $52 million beginning balance from the previous year, mean- ing the city will end the upcoming fiscal year with $42 million leftover. The breakdown The city’s expenditures include: • Salaries and benefits for city employees • Repairs and maintenance for buildings, streets and vehicles • Designated services, such as communications, utilities and city events • Debt service • Capital outlay to upgrade or maintain city land or equipment • Transfers to other city fund accounts

Buda’s projected revenue The city of Buda’s budget comes with five different revenue sources, totaling $98,097,126 for the 2023-24 fiscal year. The city’s tax rate is on the lower end of the Austin metro area.

Buda’s projected revenue

Revenue sources

tax rate Sept. 19. Budget explained

Miscellaneous: $49.63M Taxes: $28.47M Fees: $15.57M Admin. reimbursement: $2.89M Permits and licenses: $1.53M

The budget comes with expenditures set at $272 million and total revenue set at $198 million; a beginning balance of $199 million offsets the expenditures. Some notable expenditures include: • $100,000 for a mental health and behavioral program • $300,000 for the Uber Kyle $3.14 program • $10.5 million for Downtown Master Plan and other developments • $3.9 million for “high-priority” road projects • $5.5 million for merit pay, medical insur- ance and other employee-related expenses There are also a handful of new programs or services on the horizon the city ear- marked funds for but are not expected to be used until 2025 at the earliest: • $400,000 for an outdoor nature center • $150,000 for Seton park development • $210,000 for community gardens at Seton park • $250,000 for Kohlers Crossing illumination • $250,000 for a community center project

Total: $98.09M

Property tax breakdown

NOTE: PROPERTY TAX RATES ARE ALL LISTED PER $100 VALUATION.

$0.603

San Marcos

$0.4693

Kyle

$0.5362

Pflugerville

$0.4458

Austin

$0.4089

New Braunfels

$0.3379

Buda

$0.342

Round Rock

SOURCES: CITIES OF AUSTIN, BUDA, KYLE, NEW BRAUNFELS, PFLUGERVILLE, ROUND ROCK AND SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Split council adopts San Marcos’ budget, tax rate San Marcos City Council adopted the fiscal year 2023-24 budget Sept. 19, but not before various council members spoke against the budget and the lack of outreach to the community. What you need to know The new budget has $321 million worth of expen- ditures and $315 million in revenue. What they’re saying Council members Alyssa Garza and Saul Gonzales were the two council members who voted against the budget, but others also spoke. Council member Shane Scott said the city’s budget a decade ago was much smaller at around $150 million. Mayor Jane Hughson spoke in support of the budget and all it provides to the city. “People love the library, and they want us to have our parks. ... All of these things cost money, so I’m going to be supporting this budget, the tax rate, etc.,” Hughson said.

Fees on the rise

Increases are listed per average bill. • Electric utility services will increase by 5% , or $1.71. • Water, reclaimed water and wastewater treatment services will increase by 5% , or around $5. • The Resource Recovery program cost for residential and multifamily customers will increase by 3% , or $0.22-$0.86. • The Clean Community Fee will increase by 56%- 63% , or $0.85-$3.50. • Property taxes will increase by about 15% , or $22.

SOURCE: CITY OF SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Election

Voter Guide

2023

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

*INCUMBENT

Marc McKinney Claudia Zapata Lauralee Harris

Dates to know

Sample ballot

Oct. 23: First day of early voting Oct. 27: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Nov. 3: Last day of early voting Nov. 7: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or Nov. 8 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Kyle City Council Mayor Yvonne Flores-Cale

San Marcos City Council Place 3 Alyssa Garza* Place 4 Shane Scott* Atom Von Arndt There are 14 statewide constitutional amendments on the ballot as well. Learn more at www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

Travis Mitchell* Robert Ferguson Linda Tenorio District 2 Robert Rizo District 4 Jake Webb

Where to vote

Hays County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on Election Day. Visit www.hayscountytx.com/departments/elections for polling locations in Hays County.

SOURCES: HAYS COUNTY, CITY OF KYLE, CITY OF SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BY ERIC WEILBACHER

*INCUMBENT

Mayor of Kyle

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

What issues outside of the most important one named before are a high priority for the city?

As Kyle grows along with the region, we must focus on developing infrastructure. I have worked hard with sta and council to authorize and fund 10 major road and intersection improvements in Kyle. If re- elected, I will ensure these projects move forward on time and on budget.

Quality of life is of paramount importance to our residents. For Kyle to succeed long term, we must focus on cultivating a balanced and thriving local economy. Thus, we should continue cultivating projects that bring jobs, retail, parks, amenities and aordability to our community.

Travis Mitchell* Occupation: Mayor, City of Kyle Relevant experience: Small- business owner, seven years serving the city of Kyle

Kyle’s foremost concern is infrastructure, with an emphasis on water and roads. For Kyle to be self- sustaining additional water sources and conservation are essential, as mayor I will advocate for both. As mayor I will focus on updating the most utilized roads as well as building roads that create arteries.

It’s crucial to establish a strong city government. This means ensuring council members have equal access to information, to allow them to make better informed votes and build mutual trust. Strong city leadership fosters eective governance, drives community development, ensures public safety and promotes economic growth.

Yvonne Flores-Cale Occupation: Paralegal Relevant experience: Kyle City Council Member since 2020 www.yfcformayor.com

Property taxes—[residents’] mortgage payments have increased tremendously. Families are struggling. Property taxes are a priority.

Transportation/Transparency

Linda Tenorio Occupation: N/A

Relevant experience: Kyle City Council Member 2004-2007

Phenomenal growth. This growth and current climate change are aecting transportation and availability of water/electrical resources. I would slow down issuance of building permits and require weekly updates on implementation of road bonds and status of the Alliance Regional Water Authority pipeline.

Create a community center supporting all citizens activities including chamber of commerce, library, senior center, veterans, pools, sports complex. [The center should be] near [or] tunnel under I-35 for easy access.

Robert Ferguson Occupation: Retired engineer Relevant experience: Team Lead, Budget Authority on $2 million-$200 million [projects] 281-608-0604

More local election coverage, including a Q&A with candidates for the Kyle City Council District 4 seat can be found at www.communityimpact.com/election/ austin/san-marcos-buda-kyle.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 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.

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Schedule your outpatient surgery before the year ends.

Now is the time to talk to your physician about scheduling your procedure at CHRISTUS Physicians Surgery Center . Use your health insurance or flexible spending account benefits before they expire.

Outpatient surgical procedures include: • Dental • Dermatology • Otolaryngology (ENT) • Gastroenterology* • General Surgery • Gynecology • Ocular Plastic Surgery • Ophthalmology including Cataract and Retina • Orthopedics including Total Joints and Hand Surgery • Pain Management • Plastic Surgery • Podiatry including Total Ankles • Urology

For more information, contact us: 1738 E. Common St. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830.643.8600 1305 Wonder World Dr. Suite 105 San Marcos, TX 78666 512.353.8161 *Gastroenterology procedures only at this location. CHRISTUShealth.org

It’s your cooperative. PEC is a nonprofit cooperative, and as a member, you’re more than just a customer — you’re an owner of the cooperative with unique privileges and rights. The cooperative is steered by our board of directors, elected by and made up of members like you. And we give back, because we know the strength of our cooperative lies in the strength of our communities. Celebrate 85 years of PEC history for National Cooperative Month!

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY SIERRA MARTIN

Preschool Guide

2023

Tuition: Details provided with a tour of facility • 825 Main St., Buda • www.thelearningexperience.com/center/buda Kiddie Academy Ages served: 6 weeks through pre-K Religious orientation: none After-school care: none Enrollment: 195 Tuition: details provided with a tour of facility • 2448 Main St., Buda • www.kiddieacademy.com/academies/buda

San Marcos

Bonham Prekindergarten School Age served: 4 year olds Religious orientation: none After-school care: yes Enrollment: around 500 Tuition: $3,900 per student annually; free for eligible families

• 1225 Hwy. 123, San Marcos • www.smcisd.net/bonham

First Step Ages served: infants-age 12 Religious orientation: none After-school care: $450 monthly Enrollment: 90 Tuition: $875-$1,100 monthly (tuition), $45-$70 (drop-in care)

Kyle

The Kid Ranch Christian Preschool Ages served: 6 weeks-5 years Religious orientation: Christian After-school care: none Enrollment: 80

CEI Preschool-Spanish Immersion School Ages served: 6 weeks-5 years Religious orientation: none After-school care: yes, 4-13 years ($260) Enrollment: 129 Tuition: $460-$500 (bi-weekly)

• 4003 Hunter Road, San Marcos • www.firststepschooltx.com/about

Tuition: $875-$1,100 monthly • 2411 Hunter Road, San Marcos • www.thekidranch.com

• 2381 Bebee Road, Kyle • www.ceipreschool.com

Presbyterian Parent Cooperative Preschool Ages served: 2-5 years (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) Religious orientation: Presbyterian After-school care: none Enrollment: open

Children’s Lighthouse Kyle* Ages served: 6 weeks-12 years Religious orientation: none After-school care: yes Enrollment: 220 Tuition: $300-$320 weekly (full time), $180-$230 weekly (part time) • 1190 Veterans Drive, Kyle • www.childrenslighthouse.com/kyle *Slated to open at the end of November

Tuition: $250 per month • 323 Mary St., San Marcos • www.ppcpkids.org

After-school care: $100 weekly Enrollment: 285 Tuition: $165-$295 weekly • 6022 McNaughton, Kyle • www.rockinghorseacademy.com This list is not comprehensive.

Buda

The Learning Experience Ages served: 6 weeks-6 years Religious orientation: none After-school care: none Enrollment: 170

Rocking Horse Academy Ages served: 6 weeks-5 years Religious orientation: none

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• Secured building via keycode entry system • Zono sanitizing machine • Rigorous cleaning procedures

• Spacious, bright classrooms in a brand-new facility • 3 age-appropriate playgrounds and a Splashpad • Convenient location close to families • Structured onboarding program and training procedures • Experienced leadership team • Passionate, caring teachers and staff • Daily contact with teachers through online tools • Real-time video monitoring (optional program)

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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

Education

BY SIERRA MARTIN

16th HCISD elementary to open next school year Hays CISD has begun the process to create a school attendance zone for the opening of the district’s 16th elementary school. The details The new campus is located in the Anthem subdivision in Kyle and is slated to open in August 2024. In July, the board of trustees voted to create a committee of 14 citizens to review proposed maps, receive public input and create recommendations that will be presented to the board for as early as Oct. 23. “Board policy requires the district administra- tion to create at least two starting-point maps for consideration by the citizen committee,” Hays CISD Chief Communication Ocer Tim Savoy said. “We encourage everyone who has an opinion to reach out to the committee by using the special ‘Zone Talk’ button on the committee’s webpage.”

Texas State sets enrollment record Texas State University has welcomed 7,892 rst-year students in the fall 2023 semester, a 3.3% increase over fall 2022. The freshman class represents a record-setting enrollment for the third consecutive year. The specics With the incoming freshman class, the university has an overall enrollment of 38,873—the highest in the past ve years and the second-highest in university history, according to a news release. According to the university, the number of rst-time freshmen ranked in the top 25% of their high school classes increased 3.9% over 2022. Additionally, the number of out-of- state freshmen enrolling at Texas State also climbed by 20% over the past year.

The 16th elementary school in the district is anticipated to open in August 2024.

COURTESY HAYS CISD

Diving in deeper Negley Elementary and Kyle Elementary atten- dance zones may be aected by the new elementary school, according to HCISD. The 16th elementary school in the district was approved by voters as part of the district’s 2022 bond election. According to the district, construc- tion on the 117,611-square-foot campus began in early 2023 and will be able to accommodate up to 900 students in grades pre-K through 5. The total cost of the project is $43.3 million.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY KATY MCAFEE

BLANCO RIVER

Completed project

HOLLAND ST.

AQUARENA SPRINGS DR.

SESSOM DR.

COUNTY RD.

ACADEMY ST.

UHLAND RD.

RIVER RD.

COMANCHE ST.

San Marcos

1984

BLANCO RIVER

SAN MARCOS RIVER

Update: Crews nished installing new water lines along Academy Street and Sessom Drive from Holland Street to Comanche Street and will continue installing storm drains next month. • Timeline: May 2022-spring 2024 • Cost: $5.8 million • Funding source: city of San Marcos Update: Crews installed a sidewalk extension up to 10 feet wide along Uhland Road for bike and pedestrian trac and added a roundabout at the intersection of Uhland and River Roads for safety. • Timeline: March 2021-September 2023 • Cost: $6.5 million • Funding source: CDBG-DR 4 Uhland Road improvement project Project: San Marcos crews on Sept. 29 completed the Uhland Road improvement project after over two years of construction. The project fully reconstructed Uhland and County roads.

SAN MARCOS RIVER

ANIMAL SHELTER RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

123

MAP NOT TO SCALE

2 Blanco Riverine ood mitigation project Project: Crews are building a concrete oodwall between River Road and the Blanco River that will prevent ooding in the Blanco Gardens neighborhood. Update: The project also includes building a 7-foot- deep relief channel that will transfer Blanco River ows to the San Marcos River. • Timeline: October 2022-summer 2024 • Cost: $14.7 million • Funding source: CDBG-DR 3 Academy Street and Sessom Drive improvement project Project: Crews are working on installing bike lanes, reconstructing sidewalks and adding drainage improvements along Academy Street and Sessom Drive.

Ongoing projects

CALL 512-396-CPA1 NEW LOCATION! Hello, Neighbor! 1 Blanco Gardens improvement project Project: New stormwater systems will be installed along Conway Drive, Barbara Drive and River Road, and inlets along River Road will connect to a parallel channel next to the Red Point Apartments to relieve existing storm systems. Update: In August, crews nished installing the curb and gutters in Conway Drive and installed underground utilities on both Conway Drive and Barbara Drive. • Timeline: March 2022-fall 2024 • Cost: $12.2 million • Funding source: U.S. Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery

310 Stagecoach Trail #100B San Marcos, TX 78666

TAX SERVICES• SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING PAYROLL• QUICKBOOKS CONSULTING www.jdacpa1.com

SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION

Development

Real estate

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Lantana Apartments to offer income-based housing and of course we could grouse about it, but I’m happy just to say that this project, through hard work and perseverance by all parties, we’re near- ing the completion. We’re very happy that we’re finally putting this project in service,” Tolley said. What’s next? Percent of AMI 30% 40%

78666 Number of homes sold

August 2022

August 2023

Residential market data

In the San Marcos-Buda-Kyle market, more homes were sold in Buda year over year in August, according to data from the Austin Board of Realtors. While Kyle had the highest number of sales—113—in the market, Buda sales were overall up the most year over year by 39%.

Lantana Apartments, a housing development that offers income-based housing, is nearing completion. The background The project started in June 2020 after San Marcos City Council approved a resolution for low-income housing tax credits with the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Mortgage Co. LLC obtained a $30 million Federal Housing Administration Construction Loan to build the project. The mortgage company part- nered with Mission Development Group LLC to develop the project. Diving in deeper Construction, which began in the throes of COVID-19, was delayed by numerous challenges, including supply chain issues, repeated lockdowns and inclement weather, said Mark Tolley, Mission Development Group LLC managing partner. “It’s been a very tough last two years to build,

-9.89%

Annual median income thresholds Monthly rent is capped based on local median family income, which was $122,300 as of June 15.

78610

1 bedroom 2 bedrooms

78666

$605 $824

$717

+39%

78640

$980 $1,243 $1,506

The project is anticipated to be completed in October, totaling eight buildings with 216 units. “We have a wide range of units, all of which are affordable and subsidized by low-income housing tax credits,” Tolley said. According to staff, residents only pay electric, and the complex covers the rest of utilities. The apartment complex has a pickleball court, walking trails, a pool and a gym. Lana Wagner, San Marcos Housing Authority executive director, said they were glad to be in partnership with Mission Development Group. “We’re excited to get [the apartments] finished,” Wagner said.

50% 60%

$1,043 $1,262 $1,481

78610

78640

70% $1,769 SOURCES: LANTANA APARTMENTS, CITY OF SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

117

-3.42%

113

Median home sales price

2022

2023

123

78666

+0.58%

$354,476

$352,437

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY AUSTIN BOARD OF REALTORS 512-454-7636 WWW.ABOR.COM

78610

-13.9%

$408,770

$475,000

1041 Vervain Road, San Marcos www.lantanasanmarcos.com

78640

-12.32%

$350,000

$399,175

SAN MARCOS 510 Barnes Dr (512) 392-0366

CREEKSIDE TOWN CENTER 263 Creekside Crossing (830) 608-1969

SOUTHPARK MEADOWS 9900 IH-35 Service Rd S (512) 280-7400

NEW BRAUNFELS 1671 IH-35 S (830) 629-0434

From the cover

New legislation offers funding for safety, but critics claim it’s not enough

Current situation

What you need to know

The insufficient number of officers on HCISD campuses is worsened by “grossly” understaffed law enforcement agencies, both locally and nationally, HCISD Superintendent Eric Wright said. At a board meeting in August, Wright said that the district was set to receive an increase of 28 cents per student under the law. Based on data from the Texas Education Agency, HCISD will receive around $620,856 for the 2023- 24 school year while SMCISD will receive around $240,434. According to the TEA data, that equates to each district receiving just under $10 per student. In July, HCISD received three additional officers from the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, bringing the total to 15; on Sept. 25, the board approved a request to the sheriff’s office for 15 more SROs to meet compliance requirements. “The total cost for adding additional SROs, at the count of 15, is going to be about $1.5 million,” Wright said. The sheriff’s office will need to meet with the Hays County Commissioners Court to increase the staffing budget and recruit and hire more officers to fulfill the district’s request, Wright added. He also noted it is unclear what the staffing timeline will be; a few officers could be added at a time. “This makes me believe that [the TEA has] no idea how they’re going to implement this with over 1,000 school districts, with over 8,000 campuses in the state of Texas,” HCISD Trustee Esperanza Orosco said.

“good cause exception,” which is an option for districts that cannot comply because of a lack of funding or available personnel who qualify to serve as an officer. Districts that file this exception must also implement an alternative plan that includes either employing school marshals or arming a district employee following the required handgun training. To fund additional armed guards, each district will receive $15,000 per campus and up to $10 per student, which officials said is not nearly enough to offset the costs of the officers. “We’ve worked incredibly hard to put high- quality people, responsible for our students, as best as we can [fund it],” HCISD board President Will McManus said.

In Hays County, two school districts face opposing situations: Hays CISD is failing to meet compliance with HB 3, and San Marcos CISD is fully staffed with an officer at every campus. SMCISD has school resource officers contracted through the San Marcos Police Department and school marshals employed throughout the district, said Andrew Fernandez, the district’s chief of communications and technology. The SMCISD board is also creating a committee to look into the creation of a district police department, another option to meet compliance as it can be more cost effective than contracting out officers. HCISD, on the other hand, has 15 school resource officers across its 26 campuses. As a result, the board of trustees filed for a

What is HB 3?

House Bill 3 is a new public education law, created by Rep. Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, effective Sept. 1 that requires at least one armed security officer on every public and open-enrollment charter school.

Hays CISD

San Marcos CISD

26 campuses 23,347 students

11 campuses 8,352 students

4 school resource officers 8 school marshals $15,000 per campus $240,434 total allotment

15 school resource officers

$15,000 per campus $620,859 total estimated allotment

Hays CISD is not in compliance with HB 3.

San Marcos CISD is in compliance with HB 3.

SOURCES: HAYS AND SAN MARCOS CISDS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

T E X A S

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ZARA FLORES

Law enforcement staffing in Hays County

The outlook

What they’re saying

All law enforcement entities in Hays County are dealing with staffing issues on different scales. Vacant Staff ed

Even if funding was not a problem for HCISD, providing every campus with an armed guard poses a challenge as the Hays County Sheriff’s Office is down nearly a fifth of being fully-staffed. “Obviously, we would love to be able to staff every school in this county to ensure there is a school resource officer [on every campus],” Sheriff’s Deputy Anthony Hipolito said. “Unfor- tunately, due to staffing levels, we can’t meet that demand at this point.” At the suggestion of San Marcos police Chief Stan Standridge, SMCISD began to develop a school marshal program, which rolled out at the start of the 2023-24 school year. The program enlists individuals with a law enforcement back- ground to serve as a school’s guard; however, they are plain-clothes officers and operate incognito. The district’s committee will work to find the best solution for the district, which could be a hybrid solution much like what is in place now with SROs and marshals.

“It is my hope that the state politicians who passed HB 3 will now step up to fully fund our school marshals instead

of the minimal increase in school safety allotment.” MICHAEL CARDONA, SAN MARCOS CISD SUPERINTENDENT

15.38% Vacant

17.92% Vacant

Hays County Sheriff 's O ffi ce

San Marcos Police Department

“In order for us to get completely staed, … we are pledging another $1.9 million to fund SROs at each one of our campuses.” ERIC WRIGHT, HAYS CISD SUPERINTENDENT

4% Vacant

14.28% Vacant

Kyle Police Department

Buda Police Department

SOURCES: BUDA POLICE DEPARTMENT, KYLE POLICE DEPARTMENT, SAN MARCOS POLICE DEPARTMENT, HAYS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

One more thing

The resources include:

District officials are hoping for more guidance from the TEA. “TEA does not have any guidance or support for us, just another way to fail public education,” Orosco said. The TEA did not respond to requests for input regarding this comment but did share resources provided to districts.

$1.1 billion in grant funding to become available following a needs assessment A required webinar regarding armed security, including guidance on good cause exceptions Guidance to school districts regarding communication with parents

A dashboard for transparent communication for school districts, education service centers and the TEA A video explaining HB 3 with guidance on the various aspects of the bill

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Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center San Marcos, Texas Nov 24th - 26th 2023

austincc.edu

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

October

St. Anthony Marie de Claret Catholic Church 112th Annual Fiesta There will be food, live music, games, local vendors, a raffle, fellowship and more. • Oct. 21, noon-11 p.m. • Free (admission) • St. Anthony Marie de Claret Catholic Church, 801 N. Burleson, Kyle • www.samckyle.org Halloween Boo-gie Dance for Individuals with Disabilities The city of Kyle Parks and Recreation Department will host its second annual Halloween Boo-gie Dance for individuals with disabilities. Halloween costumes are encouraged but not mandatory. • Oct. 27, 5:30-8 p.m. • Free (registration required) • Gemstone Palace, 1101 Bunton Creek Road, Kyle • www.teamsideline.com/kyle Kyle Center Street Trick-or-Treat This family-friendly event will have local businesses and organizations set up tents and tables to provide a fun and safe way for children to trick-or-treat. There will also be The Center Street Trick-or-Treat Costume Contest, which will have prizes. • Oct. 28, noon-3 p.m. • Free • Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park, 101 S. Burleson Road, Kyle • www.cityofkyle.com/recreation/kyle-center-street- trick-or-treat celebration featuring a haunted house, dozens of candy booths, food vendors and a costume contest. Library staff will also host a story time for kids. • Oct. 28, 4:30-8:30 p.m. • Free • Buda Amphitheater & City Park, 204 San Antonio St., Buda • www.facebook.com/Budatx Booda Halloween The city of Buda will host its annual Halloween

GrimFest This family-friendly event will have 17 bands, food trucks, a raffle and a costume contest. • Oct. 29, 2 p.m. • $10 (adults), ($15 minors) • Ragnar’s On the Compound, 6900 RR 12, San Marcos • www.ragnarsotc.com PALS 21st annual Pet Fest There will be K9 demonstrations, kids crafts, dog races, pet microchipping, silent auctions, photo opportunities, vendors, live music and food. • Oct. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • Plaza Park, 206 N. CM Allen Parkway, San Marcos • www.preventalitter.com/pet-fest Corridor Title-CASA Classic Golf Tourney This annual event benefits volunteers serving abused and neglected children in Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe and Hays counties. Those interested can register as a team, sponsor or underwriter. There will be food, beverages and an auction. • Oct. 30, 9 a.m. • Ticket prices vary • Kissing Tree Golf Club, 201 Kissing Tree Lane, San Marcos • www.classy.org/event/2023-casa-classic-golf- tournament/e474243

CAF Veterans Dinner & 40s Swing Band Hangar Dance This event will have you traveling back to the 1940s. Attendees will be able to swing dance to ‘40s music surrounded by restored and functional World War II aircraft. There will also be a Veterans Day dinner honoring those who served. • Nov. 11, 6-11 p.m. • $75 (admission) • San Marcos Regional Airport, 1841 Airport Drive,

Ste. 2449, San Marcos • www.hangardance.org

November

Michelada Festival There will be specialty michelada vendors, DJs, bands and more. A michelada is a Mexican beer cocktail, similar to a Bloody Mary. The event will also have face painting and a bounce house. All ages are allowed until 9 p.m., and children 5 years old and under get free admission. • Nov. 11, 3 p.m.-midnight • Ticket prices TBA • The Railhouse Bar, 107 E. Center St., Kyle • www.micheladafestival.com

SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION

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Medicare Annual Election Period is October 15th-December 7th, the time of year to check your Medicare benefits!

Barajas Insurance Group Medicare Resource Center

At the Barajas Insurance Group, our goal is to simplify and individualize your insur- ance needs. We are licensed independent agents offering: • Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans, Medicare Prescription Drug Plans • Affordable Care Act (ACA) • Group Health Insurance • Life & Final Expense Insurance

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