Boerne Fair Oaks Ranch Edition | March 2026

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Boerne Fair Oaks Ranch Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 11 MARCH 31APRIL 29, 2026

2026 Voter Guide

2026 Camp Guide

Boerne and Kendall County bond funds expand public spaces

INSIDE

NORTHRUP PK.

Also in this issue

Boerne City Manager Ben Thatcher pitches to a Little League player at Northrup Park Field 11 on March 3. The eld received improvements at the beginning of March through the completion of bond-funded projects. (Courtesy city of Boerne)

Impacts

Page 4

Election Page 9 See who will be on the primary runo election ballot

Check out a new winery coming soon to Boerne

around the corner

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BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Impacts

4 Chase Bank: Lemon Creek Ranch A second Chase Bank location has opened in the Boerne area, this time near Fair Oaks Ranch at the Lemon Creek Ranch shopping development across from H.E.B. • Opened March 17 • 10049 Lemon Creek Blvd., Ste. 101, Boerne • www.chase.com

BOERNE LAKE

474

ADLERST.

Coming soon

3351

B L A N C O R D .

5 Missick Cellars The winery will specialize in white and sparkling wines, owner Chris Missick said. Bottles will be sourced from his previous winery in the Finger Lakes region of New York State and vintners, or wine producers, from the Texas Hill Country. • Opening spring

SAN ANTONIO AVE

JOHNSRD.

OAK PARK DR.

• 941 N. School St., Boerne • www.missickcellars.com

BANDERA RD.

HERFF RD.

Relocations

6 Bella Sera of Boerne The local Italian joint was temporarily located at 812 N. Main St. before moving to a new building down the street. The restaurant oers traditional American-Italian cuisine, from veal specialties to home-baked pastas,

LEMON CREEK BLVD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

according to the menu. • Relocated March 16 • 900 N. Main St., Boerne • www.bellaseraboernetx.com

• Opened Feb. 23 • 1 FM 3351, Ste. 150, Boerne • www.toasttab.com/local/order/pit-stop-cafe-1-fm- 3351-s 3 Chase Bank This nationwide banking chain oers banking services from checking accounts, savings accounts, loans, investments, and nancial education, according to the

Now open

1 Selah Café Coee + Market The new, New York-style cafe and corner market features a full espresso bar, breakfast sandwiches, baked treats and more. • Opened March 9 • 616 N. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: Selah Café Coffee + Market 2 Pit Stop Cafe Previously a franchise location of Scooter’s Coee, baristas oer customers a full espresso menu featuring iced and hot coee, tea and more, according to their website. There’s also a new selection of dirty sodas.

Expansions

7 Sunny’s All-Day Brunch & Bar This local Boerne restaurant is expanding south into The Rim in northwest San Antonio. The eatery oers a wide selection of breakfast, lunch, and brunch options, plus specialty cocktails like mimosas. • Opening 2026 • 17623 La Cantera Parkway, Ste. 107, San Antonio • www.sunnysbrunch.com

business’s website. • Opened March 3 • 441 W. Bandera Road, Boerne • www.chase.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANDREW CREELMAN & JARRETT WHITENER

In the news

Worth the trip

In the news

8 Hulme Orthodontics Hulme Orthodontics has merged with the San Antonio- based practice—Beitchman Orthodontics—at its Boerne location. As of 2026, both Dr. Kevin Beitchman and Dr. Richard Hulme are serving patients as orthodontists at the Boerne oce. • 410 N. School St., Boerne • www.hulmeortho.com; www.beitchmanortho.com 9 Heights Wellness Retreat Previously known as Massage Heights, Heights Wellness Retreat ocially rebranded on February 27. The spa oers clients specialty massages, spa treatments, wellness and more. • 1560 River Road, Ste. 105, Boerne • www.heightswellnessretreat.com/boerne 10 Pixie and La Te Da Pixie and La Te Da, located at 129 S. Main St. and 133 S. Main St., respectively, will move across the street in April and become one shop, known as La Te Da. The storefront will feature items from both boutiques.

The Staging Post This new shop oers a selection of locally-owned vendors selling handmade goods, antique nds, vintage

clothing and more. • Opened Feb. 28 • 6150 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio • Facebook: The Staging Post

Tea Around Town The business oers a scenic tour of San Antonio while also providing a traditional tea room experience. • Opened March 10 • 849 E. Commerce St., San Antonio • www.teaaroundtown.com

12 Texas Gourmet Pantry This local business oering gourmet foods, organic groceries and more celebrated its 10th anniversary serving customers in Boerne on March 6.

Closings

• 233 S. Main St., Ste. B, Boerne • www.texasgourmetpantry.com

11 Roc-NRitas The local chain—serving specialty frozen cocktails and dirty sodas—announced the closure of all its San Antonio-area locations. • Closed Feb. 13 • 112 E. San Antonio Ave., Boerne • www.rocnritas.com

• 170 S. Main St., Boerne • www.glitziepixie.com

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BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Government

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Boerne Police see increase in calls

Boerne moves forward with pedestrian plan Boerne City Council on March 10 reviewed the draft Safety Action Plan being prepared with the Safe Streets for All Planning Grant, or SS4A. This plan helps receive federal funding for transporta- tion and pedestrian safety projects. The overview Director of Engineering & Mobility Jeff Carroll said staff have been working on the plan since 2022, and City Council in 2025 entered an agree- ment with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. to complete the plan. “This grant will put us to be ready for the future implementation grant,” Carroll said. “That’s where we can apply and get funds to design and poten- tially build these things we’re recommending.” Pursuing grant funding would allow the city to implement pedestrian crosswalks, roundabouts, turnlanes or other improvements. Carroll said projects and proposals for the intersections in the plan are not concrete. “There’s schematics and conversations about what we could do to improve, but it would be that next grant where we would actually go and design something,” Carroll said. City of Boerne receives clean financial audit In an audit of the city of Boerne Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget, no major findings were identified, showing a positive financial position for the city. The details Audit Partner Patrick Simmons, repre- senting the firm Whitley Penn, said the total fund balance increased from $71.05 million to $79.22 million. The total fund balance is comprised of the General Fund, Debt Service Fund, Capital Projects Fund and other governmental funds. The General Fund saw a slight decrease, reducing from $22.32 million to $21.72 million. Simmons said the Enterprise Funds, which cover utilities such as water, waste- water and gas, saw an increase of around $17 million year over year in total fund balance.

SH 46 at Plant Ave. and S. Main Street

Between 2024 and 2025, the Boerne Police Department saw an increase in the number of general calls for service by 8.3%, increas- ing from 24,158 to 26,162. Boerne City Council on Feb. 24 reviewed the Annual Police Department Report and the racial profiling report. Of the 26,162 calls in 2025, 24,662 were 911 calls. Breaking it down The total number of arrests in 2025 was 10.2% higher than in 2024, the report states.

N. Main Street at N. School Street

ADLER ST.

N. SCHOOL ST.

S. Main Street at Bandera Road

Police Department 2025 report

8,547 total traffic stops 338 total searches during those traffic stops 138 times contraband was discovered during searches

Cascade Caverns at Scenic Loop Road

CASCADE CAVERN

arrests made from those

traffic stops 119

SCENIC LOOP RD.

SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Annual debt service fee percent change

Monthly debt service fee

Annual debt service fee

Fair Oaks Ranch wastewater debt

Fiscal year

service fee projections Monthly fees for wastewater customers are expected to increase in FY 2026-27, then decrease over the following three fiscal years.

2025-26

$16.91

$202.92

+2.66%

2026-27

$17.36

$208.32

-15.32%

2027-28

$14.70

$176.40

-1.29%

2028-29

$14.51

$174.12

+6.06%

SOURCE: CITY OF FAIR OAKS RANCH/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

2029-30

$14.51

$184.68

Fair Oaks Ranch OKs wastewater plant expansion The first phase of the wastewater treatment plant expansion project in Fair Oaks Ranch is moving forward following approval from City

the wastewater treatment plant to the ponds at Fair Oaks Country Club and Golf Course. The total cost of the project is around $5.8 million, originally projected at nearly $4.2 million. City staff said this increase was mostly due to rising costs. Director of Finance Summer Fleming said wastewater customers will see increased rates in fiscal year 2026-27 and decreased rates in subsequent years to fund the project.

Council on March 5. What’s happening? The first phase of the project focuses on

pumping capacity and upsizing the conveyance pipelines, which will allow effluent to be sent from

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Boerne ISD reaches 28% paid off on Bond 2022, years ahead of schedule

In early February, Boerne ISD crossed a milestone of paying off $45.6 million on the bond passed in 2022, which is years ahead of schedule, district staff said. The $165.64 million bond authorized by voters funded the construction of Viola Wilson Elementary School, additions to both district high schools, library renovations at four elementary schools, the construction of an Aquatic Learning Center and other district improvements. Staff said 31 of 32 total projects have been com- pleted over the past three years. Marking a milestone According to a Feb. 17 news release, the district has been able to structure repayments and refi- nancing in order to save significant taxpayer dollars on all bonds, not just 2022 Bond projects. Since the 2016 bond election, the district has saved more than $85 million in interest, paying back

30-year loans at a pace of an aver- age 25-year loan or 20-year loan in some instances, staff said. Director of Communications Maggie Dominguez said the district was scheduled to pay off the 1998 bond debt in 2028, but it was paid off in 2024. The district paid down debt from the 2002 bond while making aggressive payments towards the more recent bonds. Dominguez explained that district staff structures the debt to be callable within a shorter time, meaning the district can refinance, refund, defease or take other action faster. “This creates a callable ‘lad- der,’” Dominguez said. “With a well-structured ladder, we can take action each year to see what we have available in the I&S fund to pay debt down faster. Our structur- ing of that debt to become callable sooner has also decreased interest payments by millions so far.”

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“The district’s strategic approach to managing bond debt is saving millions of dollars in taxpayer money. Our community deserves this kind of responsible fiscal management.” KRISTI SCHMIDT, BOERNE ISD BOARD PRESIDENT

Bond 2022 debt management

32 projects outlined $45.6M of principal paid off

Bond 2022 payment progress 28%

$165.64M in voter-authorized funds 31 of 32 projects completed in three years

2022

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Transportation

BY JARRETT WHITENER

474

and all impacted roadways around the bridge will be cleaned up by April. On March 5, Texas Department of Transportation, or TxDOT, contractors moved and painted safety barriers along FM 3351 Cibolo Creek Bridge. TxDOT recently completed a trac survey on Ralph Fair Road, considering a speed limit reduction to 50 mph from Ammann Road down to the Camp Stanley entrance. • Timeline: 2024-April 2026 • Cost: $12 million • Funding source: state and federal funds 3 Loop 1604 and Blanco Road Project: As Segment 3 of the Loop 1604 North Expansion project nears completion, TxDOT is beginning the nal phase of construction of San Antonio’s rst diverging diamond interchange, or DDI, at the Blanco Road and Loop 1604 interchange. This new conguration is designed to ease trac congestion at one of the most heavily traveled corridors in the region. Update: A full weekend closure to shift trac to the DDI pattern occurred in March. TxDOT ocials said the speed limit will be reduced to 35 mph during construction, but will be raised back to the normal 45 mph once construction is complete. • Timeline: March-late Summer • Cost: $279million (entire third segment) • Funding source: TxDOT

Ongoing projects

Boerne

1 Fair Oaks Parkway Project: A new left-turn lane is being added from northbound Fair Oaks Parkway onto Front Gate. This improvement is planned to alleviate congestion on the northbound lane of Fair Oaks Parkway. The project will add 2 feet of pavement to the median and 1 foot to the outside shoulder while realigning the lanes. Update: Fair Oaks Ranch City Council authorized the project Feb. 5. According to the Feb. 5 agenda, this adjustment improves turning movements, sight distance and clearance for motorists exiting Front Gate onto eastbound Fair Oaks Parkway. Construction began March 3 and is expected to take three weeks to complete. During construction, the center median will be closed, and detours will be placed at Heritage Trail and Leslie Pfeier Drive. • Timeline: March-April • Cost: $87,000 • Funding source: city of Fair Oaks Ranch 2 Ralph Fair Road Cibolo Creek Bridge Project: A new bridge is being constructed over Cibolo Creek in Fair Oaks Ranch. The new bridge is designed for a 100-year storm event, ensuring it will not ood. The bridge project will also provide for a sidewalk and a shared-use path, along with access to city trails. Update: The bridge is expected to be fully open,

AMMANN RD.

HERFF RD.

Fair Oaks

OLD SAN ANTONIO RD.

290

KEENELAND DR.

3351

CASCADE CAVERN

OLD FREDERICKSBURG RD.

SCENIC LOOP RD.

DIETZ ELKHORN RD.

FRONT GATE

FAIR OAKS PKWY.

BOERNE STAGE RD.

HERITAGE TRAIL

HUEBNER RD.

BLANCO RD.

1604

N. LOOP 1604 W

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

2025 Property Tax Results Are In

Market Value Band: $250K-$500K

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Kendall County Judge, Commissioner Precinct 2 race moves to May 26 runoff

Results breakdown

Incumbent

Winner

Headed to runoff

County Republican primary

Two Kendall County Republican races are scheduled for a runoff election on May 26, deciding which candidates will become the next judge and county commissioner following the November election. What’s happening? A total of 13,169 ballots were cast during the March 3 election, representing 33.04% of registered voters in the county. Per state and county law, candidates must receive more than 50% of the total votes to be elected to a seat. With three candidates on the ballot for the judge and Precinct 2 races, no candidate reached the required number of votes. The top two candi- dates to receive the most votes advanced to a runoff election. In the county judge race, incumbent Shane

Stolarczyk and Ricky Gleason will advance to a runoff. In the commissioner races, Precinct 2 incumbent Andra Wisian ran against J.C. Taylor and Richard Elkins, while Precinct 4 incumbent Chad Carpenter ran against Brett D’Spain. In the Precinct 2 race, incumbent Wisian will move to a runoff against Taylor. Carpenter will run unopposed in November.

Kendall County Judge

14.91% Besa Martin

44.16% Shane Stolarczyk

40.96% Ricky Gleason

35.29% Brett D'Spain Commissioner, Precinct 4 64.71% Chad Carpenter 13.95% Richard Elkins 38.24% J.C. Taylor Commissioner, Precinct 2 47.80% Andra Wisian

Important runoff election dates April 27: Last day to register to vote May 15: Last day to apply for ballot by mail

May 18: First day of early voting May 22: Last day of early voting May 26: Election day

SOURCE: KENDALL COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Election

BY SIERRA MARTIN

Voter Guide

2026

Dates to know

Where to vote

April 20: First day of early voting. Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) April 28: Last day of early voting May 2: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or May 4 at 5 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

Kendall County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.kendallcountytx.gov/211/Elections for polling locations.

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

KEY: *Incumbent

Fair Oaks Ranch Fair Oaks Ranch City Council, Place 6

Boerne Boerne ISD Board of Trustees, Place 7 Rich Sena* Michael G. Ethridge

Sample ballot

For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/ voter-guide.

Local Elections

Jonathan Swarek* Matt Reigelsperger

SOURCES: CITY OF FAIR OAKS RANCH, BOERNE ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY JARRETT WHITENER

KEY: *Incumbent

Boerne ISD board of trustees, Place 7

Rich Sena* Occupation & experience: Boerne ISD trustee, member of finance, legislative advocacy & facilities committees, longtime community volunteer, father and ... senaforbisd.com

Michael G. Ethridge Occupation & experience: Publisher, The Kendall Gentleman; small business owner; community leader; youth mentor; media strategist www.michael4bisd.com

What do you see as the greatest challenge in Boerne ISD? We have interrelated challenges. Financially, state funding formulas result in BISD having $3000 less per student than the average Texas school district. We do more with less, and we do it well. Growth is a challenge – preparing for the future while retaining the character and values that make Boerne special.

The biggest challenge facing Boerne ISD is managing rapid growth while protecting what makes our schools strong. Enrollment continues to climb, and every decision about facilities, staffing and budgets must keep students first. We need thoughtful planning that maintains academic excellence without losing the community culture families expect from Boerne ...

Being a high-growth area, how do you plan to approach growth discussions for Boerne ISD? We have a demographer who provides us annually with valuable data; I am very well versed with this information. Our long-range planning committees constantly review and research important educational goals. When needed, we form citizen committees that represent a broad spectrum of residents to make recommendations to our board.

Growth should be approached with long-term planning and transparency. The district must clearly communicate enrollment projections, facility needs, and financial implications before decisions are made. I support responsible planning that prioritizes classrooms and teachers first, while ensuring taxpayers understand how growth decisions affect both educational quality and future tax burdens.

Public education is a large conversation across the state, especially regarding funding. How do you plan to ensure financial responsibility in Boerne ISD? Our district has received a Superior Rating from the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas every year that I have been a trustee. We balance our budgets and have the recommended fund balance. We consistently look for ways to maximize efficiency and reduced administrative overhead $1.5 million this year alone. Financial responsibility starts with treating taxpayer dollars with respect. Every budget decision should ask whether it directly benefits students and classrooms. Trustees must ask tough questions, demand transparency, and avoid unnecessary spending. My focus will be on careful oversight, long-term planning, and ensuring resources are directed toward teachers, academics and …

How do you plan to support Boerne ISD staff during your time as trustee? By continuing my previous work. I lead our Legislative Advocacy Committee, advocating for a state-funded teacher retention allotment to improve compensation. I testified multiple times in support of the bill that passed. We’ve increased professional development and implemented leadership training programs to promote internal growth and additional career paths.

Great schools depend on great people. Supporting staff means ensuring teachers have the resources, respect, and compensation they deserve. Trustees should listen to educators, remove unnecessary bureaucracy, and prioritize budgets that support classrooms. When teachers feel supported and valued, students benefit, and the entire district becomes stronger.

Boerne ISD has received “A” ratings six years in a row. What are your plans to ensure educational excellence across the district? We can never rest on our laurels; continuous improvement is our motto. Our team is constantly reviewing relevant data to focus on increasing student achievement. We are reviewing potential Career and Technical Education additions to our curriculum to maximize opportunities for our students. We strive for and expect excellence.

Boerne ISD’s success didn’t happen by accident. It came from strong teachers, supportive families and high expectations. My goal is to protect that culture while preparing students for the future. That means maintaining academic rigor, expanding workforce and career pathways and ensuring every student graduates ready for college, career or …

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.

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Election

BY JARRETT WHITENER

KEY: *Incumbent

With multiple upcoming residential developments, how do you plan to approach growth in the city? Our team and its committees have already planned carefully and responsibly for the current developments of 2025 and beyond within our boundaries. I am personally looking at ways to help our county neighbors with roads that will ensure that Fair Oaks Ranch remains a collaborative partner as further development approaches.

Fair Oaks Ranch City Council, Place 6

How do you plan to work with residents in the decision-making process? I love this question! I believe that good government begins with good listening. I regularly meet residents where they’re at and make myself accessible by phone and in person. I champion surveys, direct feedback and open discussion so that residents help shape decisions before they are finalized.

What do you see as the greatest challenge in Fair Oaks Ranch? The greatest challenge is guiding careful growth while protecting the limited resources consumed by development decisions. Development must be planned both inside the city and around it when possible. We must also ensure reliable water access for residents and preserve the character and aesthetic that make Fair Oaks Ranch special.

Why are you running for City Council?

How do you plan to address that challenge? I focus on responsible water planning, practical growth management, and disciplined budgeting. I work to protect water supplies by carefully allocating LUEs, I support sustainable development policies that match the Fair Oaks Ranch aesthetic, and I bring more work in-house wherever possible to reduce contractor costs and improve accountability.

I love my city and have long shown it through volunteer service and community involvement. As an entrepreneur, I bring a practical perspective to city government and believe that my skillset perfectly rounds out our team of two lawyers, two military leaders, a CPA, and a commercial real estate broker.

Jonathan Swarek* Occupation & experience: Current Councilmember; Entrepreneur with a history in agriculture, oil & gas, construction and real estate www.nextdoor.com/login/?next=/ profile/01nZY3tQJQQ-2wtMD Matt Reigelsperger Occupation & experience: Technology and Cybersecurity Attorney, Army Reserve JAG, husband and father www.mattforfairoaksranch.com

I’m running because voters deserve a choice. This seat was previously uncontested, and competitive elections strengthen accountability and vet ideas. My priorities are public safety, defending property rights, and creating child safety zones around FORHA parks and trails, making it illegal for registered sex offenders to live in our community.

City government works best when residents are heard. I will prioritize transparency, hold regular community discussions, and ensure residents are informed before major decisions are made. Good leadership means listening first and making decisions that reflect the priorities of the community.

Fair Oaks Ranch’s greatest challenge is managing growth while protecting the character and quality of life that make our community special. We must be cautious of West Coast influences bringing policies that have failed elsewhere. Our city should prioritize safety and fiscal responsibility over experiments that undermine our values.

I will focus on responsible growth, fiscal discipline, and protecting policies that preserve Fair Oaks Ranch’s character. That means scrutinizing new development, prioritizing public safety, and ensuring residents—not outside influences—shape our future. Local government should protect the quality of life families moved here to enjoy.

Growth should be thoughtful and measured. I support development that protects property values, respects infrastructure limits, and preserves our Hill Country character. I will be cautious about high- density or multifamily projects that do not align with the community residents chose to live in.

BOERNE 1313 S Main St (830) 249-0115

DOMINION 24603 I-10 (210) 310-3200

VINEYARD 1309 N Loop 1604 W (210) 408-8206

Boerne and Kendall County bond funds expand public spaces From the cover

Northside Community Park

What’s happening?

Key:

Trails

Park boundary Stormwater pond Park amenities Parking

Bond cost: $11.6 million

Timeline: 2025-2027

Since 2022, voter-approved propositions in Boerne and Kendall County have led to improvements to parks and open spaces, including the groundbreaking of a new park in September and the opening of eld improvements at Northrup Park on March 3. Through the two funding mechanisms, Boerne and Kendall County residents are getting access to new conservation areas and open spaces. The largest portion of the $13 million Boerne parks bond proposition, Northside Community Park, is making progress toward providing new amenities in a central portion of the city. On Feb. 24, Lissette Jimenez, director of parks and recreation, shared an update on Northside Community Park, including the rst pouring of concrete for two basketball courts and the nal designs for the splashpad and playscape. “The two multiuse elds have been worked on, and that was a pretty big step forward in our rst phase,” Jimenez said. “Now, we are going to start digging up the dirt again for our utility work, and then concrete pours are our next big eye- catcher.” Jimenez said the next step for the park project is to begin excavation on the restroom buildings and extend utility lines across the park. The rst phase of Northside Community Park is projected to be open by early 2027. The second phase of the park is expected to be funded and under construction at an undetermined date.

Bond improvements • All-abilities playscape • Splashpad • 12 outdoor pickleball courts

• 2 covered basketball courts • 2 multiuse athletic ields • Dog park • Accessible walking trail • Food truck park

Splashpad

All-abilities playscape

ADLER ST.

SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNECOMMUNITY IMPACT RENDERINGS COURTESY CITY OF BOERNE

More details

Northrup Park

Boerne City Park

Aside from funding a new park, Boerne bond funds supported eld and lighting improvements at Northrup Park and Boerne City Park. On March 3, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the completion of Field 11 improvements at Northrup Park. Director of Communications Chris Shadrock said Northrup Park, City Park and Boerne City Lake Park brought in more than 800,000 visitors in 2025. “Each year, a large number of people utilize city parks, and the improvements through the 2022 bond allow the city to provide the spaces that our residents want to see,” he said. Jimenez said Boerne is the only city in Kendall County with multiple parks, leading county residents and organizations to use them.

Bond cost: $294,267

Timeline : March 2025-March 2026

Bond cost: $498,907

Timeline : 2024-late 2026

Bond improvements • New Musco LED DarkSky-compliant lighting • Complete inield renovation • Complete outield renovation • Installation of the irrigation system, including the inield quick connection • New scoreboard, press box, bleacher pad and bleachers

Bond improvements • New Musco LED DarkSky-compliant lighting installed at three soccer ields • New car stoppers installed in the parking lot • Installation of new shade structure at the Tennis Center • Installation of the new City Park monument sign

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

By the numbers

Also of note

Kendall County Prop A parks

1 Demotion Ranch at the Desperado Resort 2 James Keihl Natural Area 3 Joshua Springs Preserve 4 Comfort Community Park

Upon approval in 2022, Proposition A autho- rized Kendall County to issue $20 million in interest-bearing bonds, with a requirement to spend 80% of the proceeds, or $17 million, by June 2026. Prop A Committee representatives said this goal is expected to be met following purchases of parkland and conservation easements in 2026. The funds have supported land purchases in Comfort, James Kiehl River Bend Park and a third planned park development. In December, commissioners authorized the $11.25 million purchase of a 310-acre property formerly known as Demolition Ranch at the Desperado Resort. Alongside this project, commissioners in 2025 discussed development options for a Comfort property purchased in 2024. While no action was taken, county sta said the Comfort property is being looked at for the construction of elds, playscapes and other amenities. Proposition A Committee Chairman Rusty Busby

Since 2021, parks across Boerne have seen changes in visitor numbers. Boerne City Park has seen the largest year-over-year increase in visitors. Primarily used for recreational sporting events, Northrup Park has a slight decrease in annual attendance, but Jimenez said park updates are expected to increase visitors.

281

Boerne parks attendance

Northrup Park Boerne City Park

told Community Impact that the purchase of the property is still underway and that the county is considering the use of other Proposition A-funded properties for public access.

FY 22-23

FY 23-24

FY 24-25

SOURCE: CITY OF BOERNECOMMUNITY IMPACT

Zooming out

environmental classroom. Kendall County resident Linda Frank said open spaces are one of the primary reasons her family lives in the area. “Part of why we moved here is to enjoy the beautiful Hill Country,” she said. “Having more opportunities to do that is always a positive.”

While Boerne and Kendall County move forward on local open spaces, a new state natural area is eyeing a fall 2026 opening 8 miles from I-10 in Boerne. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Albert & Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area will contain accessible trails for walking and hiking, 25 campsites, cabins, a headquarters oce and an

Albert & Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area is a new state park planned to open in 2026.

COURTESY TEXAS PARKS & WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT

BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Events

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Diva Spring Fling Led by the Boerne Chamber and the Boerne Retail and Restaurant Owners association, this biannual shopping event allows participants to stop at participating businesses to get free prizes, discounts, food and more.

Composting Workshop: Turning Scraps into Soil Learn how to compost household items and trash to help the environment. The hands-on seminar will be led by Shyann Martinez and Sarah Berringer.

• April 25, 10:30 a.m.-noon • Free (admission) • Teaching Garden at Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/calendar/composting-workshop

• April 9, 5-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • Hill Country Mile, Boerne • https://business.boerne.org

Earth Day 2026 Celebrate Earth Day by making the drive to downtown San Antonio. This event is a part of the city’s 10-day- long Fiesta celebration, which will feature music, dancing, nature-themed local vendors, food and more. • April 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • Free (admission) • Woodlawn Lake Park, 221 Alexander Ave., San Antonio • www.fiestasanantonio.org/our-events/earth-day-san- antonio Bowls for Blessings Benefiting the Boerne-based nonprofit Blessings in a Backpack, this fundraising event will feature local vendors, a mimosa bar, coffee and more. • April 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • 219 Palo Grande Drive, San Antonio • Facebook: Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce Sixth annual Casino Night Make the drive to this public casino night. It will directly benefit the Hill Country Crisis Council and the theme for this years’ event is “A Night in Monte Carlo.” • April 25, 6-10 p.m. • $150 (individual admission) • Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Hwy. 27, Kerrville • www.hillcountrycrisiscouncil.com/casinonight

• April 17, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; April 18-19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • Main Plaza, downtown Boerne • www.texas-corvette-association.com Combat Hero Bike Build: Southwest Ameri- can Hero Ride 45th Bike Presentation A part of the Southwest American Hero Honor Ride that begins in Arizona and ends in Boerne, this event will showcase the presentation of a custom-built motorcycle to a combat veteran. • April 17, 1-3 p.m. • Free (admission) • Ironwood Events at Von Erich Ranch, 1637 FM 476, Boerne • https://business.boerne.org Kendall County Oak Wilt Workshop This interactive workshop will teach participants the basics of protecting local live oak trees from oak wilt, a fungal disease that can be potentially life-threatening to trees. • April 18, 1-4 p.m. • Free (registration required) • Patrick Heath Public Library, 200 Ryan St., Boerne • Facebook: Tribemania Tree Services State of Disabilities in the Hill Country Town Hall Presented by LTO Ventures, this town hall and interactive seminar will feature lunch and speeches from prominent nonprofits and figures that advocate for and support those with disabilities. • April 20, 7:30-11 a.m. • $25 (registration)

April

April Fool’s Comedy Show & Game Night Hosted by DeVino Cellars, this evening event will feature stand-up comedy from Tammie Bernal plus a variety of games and activities to play with friends and family.

• April 1, 7:30-9 p.m. • $21.65 (admission) • 1109 S. Main St., Ste. 101, Boerne • Facebook: DeVino Cellars

Spring Antique Tractor Pull Head to the first tractor pull of the season at the AgriCultural Museum & Arts Center. There will be live music, tractor races, local vendors, food, drinks and more. • April 4, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. • Free (admission) • AgriCultural Museum & Arts Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.theagricultural.org National Handmade Day Celebration Support local artists, crafters and business owners with this event celebrating handmade goods. There will be giveaways, prizes, specials and more. • April 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free (admission) • Handmade on Main, 347 N. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: Handmade on Main 33rd annual Open Car Show Hosted by the Texas Corvette Association, this annual event features both vintage and modern sports cars like Corvettes, muscle cars, classic and exotic builds and more.

• 202 W. Kronkosky St., Boerne • www.ltoventures.org/townhall

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Business

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Owners Scott and Candice Cooper opened the business in Boerne in November 2024.

Cooper’s Kingdom is an interactive miniature golf course with a two-story arcade.

ANDREW CREELMANCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Cooper’s Kingdom oers a medieval miniature golf escape in the Boerne Hill Country

The second oor of Cooper’s Kingdom contains an arcade.

While many mini golf courses feature eclectic, creative themes, Candice Cooper said hers is far more unique and immersive than the rest. Taking inspiration from Harry Potter characters and the atmosphere of castles, dragons and knights, husband-and-wife duo Scott and Candice Cooper ocially opened Cooper’s Kingdom in

our course, which is something I believe is missing in many other courses in the area,” Cooper said. In total, there are seven interactive animatron- ics, including two large ying dragons, witches with cauldrons and a three-headed dog. “It’s basically like an immersive attraction to an experience that just so happens to have mini golf,” Cooper said. Families can also choose to rent party rooms for birthdays, while corporate entities can rent the space for work events and more, according to the website. The two-story arcade contains retro games, claw machines and racing simulators where partici- pants can earn tickets to redeem prizes. The local impact Overall, Scott Cooper said his favorite part of owning the business is seeing both kids and parents alike smile. “Love seeing the kids running around and having a ball,” he said. He also has a 3D printer behind the prize counter of the arcade, where custom dragons can be made for guests. Looking ahead In the future, Candice Cooper said she is open to expansion and opening a new location.

November 2024. How we got here

Candice Cooper said she felt obligated to open a family entertainment business due to the lack of diverse options currently available in the southern Hill Country area, between Kerrville and Boerne. “There’s not a ton of entertainment options here in town,” she said. “We were super excited to bring something like that here.” Additionally, Cooper said she has three children of her own, which is what inspired her to open a business for families to enjoy. What are the options? Cooper’s Kingdom contains both an immersive miniature golf course and a two-story arcade, Cooper said. The golf course features 18 holes across six themed rooms. Each room contains three holes along with 3D paintings, animatronics, smoke machines, sound eects and more. “The visual aspect and storytelling both go into

Cooper’s Kingdom features six immersive, interactive miniature golf rooms.

INDUSTRIAL DR.

129 Old San Antonio Road, Boerne www.coopers-kingdom.com

BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Community Camp Guide

2026

All-Star Sports Type: day, recreation, outdoor Ages: 5-13 Dates: June 8-12 Cost: $182 • Boerne Family YMCA, 820 Adler Road, Boerne • www.ymcasatx.org/programs/camps/summer-day- camps Amazing Scavenger Race Type: art, nature, education, day Ages: 5-12 Dates: July 20-24 Cost: $190 (nature or art camp per week), $390 (nature and art camp per week) • 140 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/programs/camp Animals Crossing Type: art, nature, education, day Ages: 5-12 Dates: July 13-17 Cost: $190 (nature or art camp per week), $390 (nature and art camp per week) • 140 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/programs/camp Boerne Cub Scout Day Camp Type: day, swimming, range and target activities, sports Ages: 1st-5th Dates: June 23-25 Cost: $110 (early registration), $120 (regular registration) • 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.alamoareascouting.org/summer-camp/cub- scout-day-camp Bracken Christian School: Spark Type: day, education, science, engineering, math, hands-on Ages: K-6 Dates: June 1-4 Cost: $305 • 670 Old Boerne Road, Bulverde • www.invent.org/program-search/camp-invention/ tx64/49026 Camp Rodeo Roundup Type: day, recreation, outdoo r Ages: 5-13 Dates: July 20-24 Cost: $182 • Boerne Family YMCA, 820 Adler Road, Boerne • www.ymcasatx.org/programs/camps/summer-day- camps Camp Barbie | Life Preparation Type: day Ages: 4-8 Dates: July 7-10 Cost: $98 • Agricultural Museum & Art Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/1101

Cibolympics 2026 Type: art, nature, education, day Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 15-19 Cost: $190 (nature or art camp per week), $390 (nature and art camp per week) • 140 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/programs/camp Curington Elementary: Spark Type: day, education, science, engineering, math, hands-on Ages: K-6 Dates: June 15-19 Cost: $320 • 601 Adler Street, Boerne • www.invent.org/program-search/camp-invention/ tx64/18409 Fashion Designer: Talented Expressions Type: arts, day Ages: 7-12 Dates: July 7-10 Cost: $98 • Agricultural Museum & Art Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/1101 Fin-Tastic Fun Type: day, recreation, outdoor Ages: 5-13 Dates: July 13-17 Cost: $182 • Boerne Family YMCA, 820 Adler Road, Boerne • www.ymcasatx.org/programs/camps/summer-day- camps Greenman hears a… Type: art, nature, education, day Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 22-26 Cost: $190 (nature or art camp per week), $390 (nature and art camp per week) • 140 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/programs/camp Great Ghost Chase Type: day, theater, arts, music, performing arts Ages: 9-13 Dates: July 27-Aug. 9 Cost: $450 • 907 E. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.boernetheatre.org/summer-drama-camp It’s a Bird, it’s a Plane, it’s a Bird! Type: art, nature, education, day Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 8-12 Cost: $190 (nature or art camp per week), $390 (nature and art camp per week) • 140 City Park Road, Boerne • www.cibolo.org/programs/camp

King Artie and the Knights of the Rad Table Type: day, theater, arts, music, performing arts Ages: 9-13 Dates: June 8-21 Cost: $450 • 907 E. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.boernetheatre.org/summer-drama-camp Learning STEM with Hot Wheels! Type: academics, day Ages: 4-8 Dates: June 8-12, 23-26 Cost: $98 • Agricultural Museum & Art Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/1101 Look at Me, I’m an Author! Type: academics, arts, overnight, sports Ages: 7-12 Dates: June 9-12 Cost: $98 • Agricultural Museum & Art Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne • www.ci.boerne.tx.us/1101 Mission Impossible Type: day, recreation, outdoor Ages: 5-13 Dates: June 22-26 Cost: $182 • Boerne Family YMCA, 820 Adler Road, Boerne • www.ymcasatx.org/programs/camps/summer-day- camps Minecraft: Development + Gaming Type: day, computers, science, math Ages: 7+ Dates: June 22-26 Cost: $399 • 28255 W. I-10 frontage road, Ste. 104, Boerne • www.codeninjas.com/tx-boerne/camps Minecraft, Roblox & GAMING Type: day, computers, science, math Ages: 7+ Dates: June 1-5; June 29-July 2 Cost: $399 • 28255 W. I-10 frontage road, Ste. 104, Boerne • www.codeninjas.com/tx-boerne/camps Party in the USA Type: day, recreation, outdoor Ages: 5-13 Dates: June 29-July 3 Cost: $182 • Boerne Family YMCA, 820 Adler Road, Boerne • www.ymcasatx.org/programs/camps/summer-day- camps

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