Georgetown Edition | October 2024

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

Georgetown Edition VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2 OCT. 22NOV. 20, 2024

2024 Voter Guide

If approved, the sales tax revenue provided by Proposition A will allow Emergency Services District No. 8 and the Georgetown Fire Department to build more stations and maintain response times, ocials said.

COURTESY GEORGETOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT ESD 8 seeks to capture sales tax in Georgetown area

Now, Georgetown Fire Chief John Sullivan is priori- tizing education ahead of this year’s election. “The need hasn’t changed since last year. In fact, I would argue, respectfully, that there’s even a stronger case for a sales and use tax,” Sullivan said.

Texas, which consumers already pay in many cases. ESD 8 and the Georgetown Fire Department part- ner to provide re and emergency medical services to the city of Georgetown and the ETJ. The ESD asked voters to approve the same measure last year, but the proposition failed.

BY CLAIRE SHOOP

Emergency Services District No. 8 is asking voters to approve local retention of 2% of sales tax in Georgetown’s extraterritorial jurisdiction during the Nov. 5 election. This would bring the total sales tax to 8.25%, the maximum rate allowed in the state of

CONTINUED ON 20

Also in this issue

Subscribe to our free daily email newsletter!

Impacts: Sprouts Farmers Market announces opening date—read about when the grocer is set to open its doors (Page 6)

Election: Early voting for the Nov. 5 election runs through Nov. 1—learn more about what’s on the ballot (Page 12)

��-��-�� CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE

Baths • Showers • Windows • Doors • Kitchen Cabinets

Our Special Offer For You! 20% OFF ANY PROJECT + FLEXIBLE FINANCING

Servicing Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Surrounding Areas

Scan or call 512-212-3921 for a special offer for CI readers!

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Join us for a season of joy and celebration with a packed calendar of festive fall activities! September 2 at 1:15 PM

Our purpose is to provide you with all the comforts of home, an enhanced quality of life and a welcoming community that allows you to cherish all the moments that matter most. We call it our purpose. You call it home. There’s always something going on at The Wesleyan.

Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Care Skilled Nursing Rehabilitation

TheWesleyan.org

GEORGETOWN EDITION

Rick Cofer WILLIAMSON COUNTY CRIMINAL LAW ATTORNEY

Defending Your Family, Like I’d Defend My Own.

COFERCONNELLY.COM • 512-200-3801 • PRINCIPAL OFFICE: 602 W. 11TH ST., AUSTIN, TX 78701

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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 Amanda Cutshall Dacia Garcia Sarah Hernandez Elisabeth Jimenez Anna Maness Haley McLeod Hannah Norton Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Amira Van Leeuwen Gracie Warhurst Chloe Young Graphic Designers Alissa Foss Gloria Gonzalez Melissa Johnson Sabrina Musachia Karoline Pfeil Sam Schaer

Denise Seiler General Manager dseiler@ communityimpact.com

Minh Nguyen Joseph Veloz Publisher Travis Baker Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Senior Product Manager Haley Grace Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara

Claire Shoop Editor cshoop@ communityimpact.com

Dana Smyth Account Executive dsmyth@ communityimpact.com

16225 Impact Way Pugerville, TX 78660 • 5129896808 CI Careers

Proudly printed by

Join CI Patron for exclusive newsletters and swag.

communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact geonews@communityimpact.com geoads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Press releases

Advertising

Email newsletters

communityimpact.com/newsletter

FOR THE RIGHT REASONS TM Banking on relationships.

Experience the difference of a community bank that prioritizes you!

www.R.Bank 844-722-6589

GEORGETOWN EDITION

195

Impacts

195

SUN CITY BLVD.

4 Strength & Dignity Wellness Owned by Katie Castillo, the business specializes in addressing the physical needs of women during and

DEL WEBB BLVD.

195

after pregnancy. • Opened Aug. 14

• 1019 S. College St., Georgetown • www.strengthdignitywellness.com

NORTHWEST BLVD.

152

5 Harbor Health Co-founded by Dr. Clay Johnston, former dean of the Dell Medical School at The University of Texas, the system of clinics prioritizes preventive care and collaboration with patients. • Opened Sept. 3 • 4879 Williams Drive, Bldg. 1, Ste. 103, Georgetown • www.harborhealth.com 6 University Ave Storage The facility has three floors of climate-controlled self- storage units. Available sizes range from 25 square feet to 300 square feet. • Opened in early August • 2651 E. University Ave., Ste. 600, Georgetown • www.premiumspaces.com Bath Tune-Up Lisa and Julio Ortiz opened a franchise that services Hutto, Georgetown and Taylor. The business offers fixture replacements, shower-to-tub conversions and full bathroom remodels. • Opened Aug. 1 • www.bathtune-up.com/georgetown-hutto-tx 29

130 TOLL

971

DEL WEBB BLVD.

SERENADA DR.

NORTHWEST BLVD.

LAKE GEORGETOWN

130 TOLL

RIVERY BLVD.

E. 7THST.

12 1

130 TOLL

RIVERY BLVD.

1460

W.8THST.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

WOLF RANCH PKWY.

• Opened Aug. 19 • 19398 Ronald Reagan Blvd., Georgetown • www.chilis.com

Now open

130 TOLL

Coming soon

1 Tecovas Located on the Georgetown square, the Western-style store sells cowboy boots and accessories. • Opened Sept. 25 • 709 S. Main St., Ste. 201, Georgetown • www.tecovas.com 2 Chili’s The national restaurant chain serves American and Tex-Mex fare, including fajitas, steaks, burgers, chicken, pasta, seafood and more.

3 Cosmic Roots Nature School Accepting students ages 3-15, the school integrates outdoor learning into every subject and uses a Montessori-influenced curriculum. Additional programs include after school care, farm Fridays, automotive, bushcraft skills, herbal healing and 3D printing. • Opened Sept. 3 • 75 CR 152, Georgetown • www.cosmicrootsgeorgetown.org 1460

7 Sprouts Farmers Market Located off Williams Drive in the Cedar Breaks West development, the store will carry a selection of natural and organic foods, including fresh produce, meats and ready-to-eat meals. Sprouts has 439 locations in 24 states, according to the company’s website. • Opening Nov. 22 • 4610 Williams Drive, Ste. 107, Georgetown • www.sprouts.com

110

1460

110

Dr. Craig P. Torres D.D.S., Endodontist Board Certified (COL US Army Dental Corps RET) • Non-surgical root canal therapy • Root canal retreatments • Root canal surgery 110 Dr. Gloria T. Torres D.D.S., Prosthodontist (LTC US Army Dental Corps RET) 66 Years Combined Experience (Retired Army Dentists)

1431

1460

Call for an appointment 512-868-5999 Advanced Technology CEREC (one day all ceramic crowns) Endodontic Microscopes Digital radiography/photography CBCT (3-D) scans Oral/nitrous sedation www.Torres-Dental-Specialties.com

• Restorative Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Full mouth reconstruction

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

1431

4402 Williams Drive, Suite 104 • Georgetown, TX • Hours M-F 8-5 • Most insurance accepted

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

8 Platinum Resort Assisted Living and Memory Care

Relocations

Now open

Owners Brett and Laura Chotkevys are opening a second location of the boutique-style home for seniors. At the new location, called Memory Care Mansion, resident seniors will receive personalized and compassionate care in a family-like atmosphere. • Opening in early spring • 2910 FM 971, Georgetown • www.platinumresortassistedliving.com 9 Northside Village Apartments Construction on the 250-unit apartment complex is expected to begin in mid-2025. The complex will feature garden-style, walk-up apartments and townhomes. • Opening in late 2026 or early 2027 • 350 Hwy. 195, Georgetown • www.dominiumapartments.com 10 BioLife Plasma Services As part of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, the organization will open a plasma donation center. Donors are paid for each visit and can donate twice a week. • Opening in late summer 2025 • 1103 Rivery Blvd., Ste. 270, Georgetown • www.biolifeplasma.com

11 Click Computers The business relocated after spending over four years at 3303 Shell Road, Georgetown. The company specializes in computer repairs and IT support. • Relocated Sept. 1 • 601 Quail Valley Drive, Ste. 103, Georgetown • www.clickcomputers.biz

In the news

12 Six Strings Guitar & Lounge Previously Ken’z Guitars & Accessories, the business, which celebrated its grand opening Sept. 7, will continue selling stringed instruments, offer instrument repairs and provide music lessons. A new addition to the

14 Flower Bells After three years of working weddings and special events, owner Susan Stone decided to grow her business by opening a brick-and-mortar store. The shop sells build-your-own and premade bouquets, house plants, cacti, art, gifts, and antiques. It will continue offering services for events around Georgetown. • Opened Sept. 1 • 308 W. Eighth St., Georgetown • www.flowerbells.shop

shop is a lounge area and bar. • 705 S. Main St., Georgetown • www.sixstringsgtown.com

13 Barrels & Amps Offering bar, restaurant and event services, the establishment marked its five-year anniversary Sept. 7. • 718 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown • www.barrelsandamps.com

THERE ARE SOME SMILES EVEN WE CAN’T FIX!

CANDY BUY-BACK! We all love the “Parent Tax” on Halloween Candy but when you’re ready to get some of that sugar out of your house, drop by and see us! • We’ll pay $1 per pound of candy, up to $5 per family • Buy-back runs from November 1st - 5th

4507 Williams Drive • Georgetown 512.869.4100 • GTFamilyOrtho.com

Dr. Aaron White • Dr. Travis Hildebrand Dr. Lisa Jacob • Dr. Kenny Havard

GEORGETOWN EDITION

MODEL�NOW�OPEN!

BROKEN�OAK From the $5 4 0s

Broken Oak is a new community in Georgetown, on the west side of I-35 off of Williams Drive near Ronald Reagan Boulevard. Just north of Jim Hogg Park at Lake Georgetown, Broken Oak offers residents a wealth of opportunities to explore the natural Texas landscape. 512.834.9171

Learn more about Broken Oak

��*�TO�BUY�A�LOWER�INTEREST�RATE!

*All eligible sales must be original contracts with Highland Homes signed on or after 10/01/24 and by 12/31/24. Valid for inventory and new build homes in the Austin area communities. Highland Homes to contribute up to $20,000 when Highland HomeLoans is used as the lender. Must apply for a loan with Highland HomeLoans, LLC within 5 days of entering your contract and must close and fund that loan by 08/31/25 to qualify. Amount dependent on third party loan contribution limits. Incentive can be used towards title policy, closing costs, discount points to buy down the rate, and/or pre-paids. Buydown 1-0 Option will be paid by Highland HomeLoans. Rate discount applies only to first year. Additional restrictions may apply. Certain loan programs do not allow buydowns. Savings will be reflected on the Closing Disclosure. This is not a commitment to lend, availability subject to change without notice or prior obligation. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Exclusions apply. See Highland HomeLoans loan officer for details. Highland Homes and Highland HomeLoans reserve the right to change or cancel this promotion a t any time. All rights reserved. Purchaser is free to choose his or her own lender, but will not be eligible for builder/lender offer unless Highland HomeLoans is used as the lender. **Conditions and restrictions apply. Lender fees (i.e., administration, application, closing, commitment, processing, underwriting and wire fees) will be waived when, by 03/31/2027, borrower closes on a refinance of a qualifying loan with Highland Home-Loans, LLC. All other fee s apply. Qualifying loans are purchase loans originated and closed by Highland HomeLoans, LLC. between 09/22/2024 - 12/31/2024 on which borrower has made 7 timely payments. Excludes brokered loans. Refinanced loan must meet agency and investor guidelines (e.g., seasoning requirement s, net tangible benefit). Limited to the initial refinance of the qualifying loan. Subject to credit approval. Cannot be combined with any other offer. ©2024 Highland HomeLoans (NMLS: 124684). All loans subject to credit approval. Rates and fees subject to change. Equal Housing Lender. Highland HomeLoans is a subsidiary of PlainsCapital Bank and exempt from mortgage banker licensing in TX. Highland HomeLoans is an affiliated business arrangement between Highland HomeLoans Ventures, LLC ( HHLV), and PrimeLending Ventures Management, LLC. HHLV is affiliated with Highland Homes, LLC.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY ANNA MANESS

An annual count of the county’s homeless population is scheduled for January. Williamson County Homeless Coalition volunteers will be trained to conduct a point- in-time count in the area. On one night, around 50-75 volunteers will use a survey to ask the homeless community about their age, race, gender and more. “We want the community to start engaging with folks that are living unsheltered and see them as their neighbors, so we encourage conversation beyond the survey,” coalition Vice Chair Christel Erickson-Collins said. Volunteers will drive around and look for unhoused individuals for the count, coalition member Janette Gaudiesus said. Cars, streets and parks are checked, along with WilCo homeless count planned

Get involved

Where Williamson County’s homeless population sleep

The coalition counted 89 people experiencing homelessness this January. Sixty-three individuals gave the following answers to the question, “Where are you sleeping tonight?” Bus, train station, airport: 1

Area resources for people experiencing homelessness include the Round Rock Area Serving Center, Community First! Village, The Charlie Center and The Caring Place. Challenges can arise with these locations as homeless individuals don’t always want to relocate, Erickson-Collins said. “People from Williamson County often want to stay in Williamson County—they don’t want to move to a new community,” Erickson-Collins said. “It would be really nice for us to have housing options for our neighbors here.” The Williamson County Homeless Coalition started in 2019, according to previous Community Impact reporting. For safety and privacy, the coalition will share the PIT count date internally as it gets closer, Erickson- Collins said. The coalition is actively looking for more volunteers, and those interested can email wilcopitcount2025@gmail.com for more information.

Under bridge/overpass: 3

Abandoned building/structure: 4

Outdoor encampment: 8

Park: 8

Vehicle: 15 Street/sidewalk: 24

SOURCE: TEXAS HOMELESS NETWORK/COMMUNITY IMPACT

local food banks earlier in the day. “The numbers are very helpful in determining what’s actually happening and to determine, possibly, what services could be added in our local area,” Gaudiesus said.

Embrace the fall in maintenance-free senior living. Our active community features cozy cottages with attached garages, zero threshold showers, and more! Fall into Comfort with Zero Maintenance Living

Schedule your visit today and experience a new home you'll love!

4099 Teravista Club Dr Round Rock, TX 78665 737-973-0906 EmeraldCottages.com

GEORGETOWN EDITION

Government

WilCo approves funds for 3 child welfare positions Williamson County will add three additional Child Protective Services positions in an effort to improve functionality and meet the county’s needs. In a 3-2 vote Sept. 17, the majority of county com- missioners voted to add the roles, which will cost $240,200 combined and will last for the next year, with funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. How we got here CPS is struggling to fill positions throughout Texas to keep up with case demands, about 200 of which are in Williamson County, Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey said. She said the county previously approved $200,000 to help with legal costs and outside attorneys. Covey said she hopes the new positions cut down the number of hours billed to the county. In five to six years, the state might privatize aspects of CPS, and some staff additions would be

City adopts FY 2024- 25 budget, tax rate Georgetown City Council adopted a $879.15 million budget for fiscal year 2024-25 and a property tax rate of $0.3647 per $100 valuation at its Sept. 10 meeting. The big picture The tax rate is lower than last year’s rate of $0.374 per $100 valuation, but due to growing property values, the average prop- erty tax bill will increase by $32, according to a city news release. The tax rate will raise $4.26 million more in revenue. Additionally, the FY 2024-25 budget is about $11.39 million more than the FY 2023-24 budget. The new budget includes 37 new positions, and aims to address growth and inflation while main- taining public safety, water and customer services, according to the release.

Adding positions Williamson County commissioners voted 3-2 to add the following CPS positions:

Legal Assistant II, $78,200 annually Improve functionality by assisting case workers with paperwork Two care coordinators, $81,000 annually each Contracted through Bluebonnet Trails Community Services

SOURCE: WILLIAMSON COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

part of the privatization process, Covey said. On the other hand County Judge Bill Gravell and Precinct 1 Com- missioner Terry Cook voted against adding the positions. Gravell said he didn’t recall any ARPA positions previously added that weren’t eventually full-time positions coming out of the county’s fund, and he questioned where to pull the money from when ARPA funds run out. Covey said commissioners can discuss more permanent funding options when the time comes.

GAINING FAT? LOSING STRENGTH , ENERGY & BALANCE ? OUR PROMISE IS SIMPLE. FOLLOW OUR PROVEN PROGRAM AND YOU WILL GET LEANER & STRONGER. GUARANTEED.

• Synergistic 12-Week Transformation Program based on Body-for-Life!

❦ COUPLES / FRIENDS 2 - FOR SPECIAL Ages 35 to 75+ Positive, Clean & Friendly Vibes!

CALL OR GO ONLINE TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

VISIT GetAgeFit.com CALL 512-591-7923 Drop In Guests Welcome!

3626 WILLIAMS DRIVE, 2ND FLOOR I GEORGETOWN 78628 I GETAGEFIT.COM I 1.5 MILES WEST OF IH-35

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANNA MANESS

City Council simplifies block party permits The city of Georgetown gave final approval Oct. 8 to an update to its block party permit application that aims to make the process more convenient. Current situation At a Sept. 24 City Council meeting, Allyson Iiams, Georgetown’s special events and marketing coordinator, presented the update. Iiams proposed separating block party permits from special event permits, since the two currently have the same process but differ in scale. Right now, permit applicants for both events are required to submit a $1 million insurance policy, an event site plan, a traffic control plan and a $100 per- mit fee, according to the presentation. In the past year, no neighborhood block parties went through the process, Iiams said. Previously, the city would see an average of 10 applications each year.

Water rebate program applications accepted In an effort to encourage conservation, the city budgeted $500,000 for water rebates in fiscal year 2024-25. Water customers could qualify for up to $5,000 in combined rebates—a recent increase approved by city council for this

The conditions Some of the changes to the block party permitting process include:

A $50 application fee

Creating a separate application and guidebook for block party permits

Signature collection from 50% of residents on the street*

fiscal year. The details

A simplified street closure form with templates preapproved by a city traffic engineer Removing additional insurance requirements, unless the block party has animals, bounce houses, amplified sound, floats, a parade or other add-ons Requiring the applicant to rent street barricades and place a vehicle outside the barricades

Services must be completed on or after Oct. 1 to be eligible. Rebates ranging from $25-$3,000 are available for a variety of projects, including conducting an irriga- tion inspection, installing a pool cover, harvesting rainwater and landscaping with native plants. More information about the water

*IF A PROPERTY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD IS A RENTAL, THE SIGNATURE APPROVING THE BLOCK PARTY EVENT CAN BE SIGNED BY THE OCCUPANT IN PLACE OF THE OWNER.

rebate program can be found at www.georgetowntexas.gov/water.

SOURCE: CITY OF GEORGETOWN/COMMUNITY IMPACT

GEORGETOWN EDITION

Election

Voter Guide

2024

Dates to know

Where to vote

Oct. 21: First day of early voting Oct. 25: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Nov. 1: Last day of early voting Nov. 5: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or Nov. 6 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election on Election Day)

Voters in Williamson County can cast a ballot at any polling location in the county. See a noncomprehensive list of polling locations in the Georgetown area on Page 13. Visit www.wilcotx.gov/elections for a complete list.

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

KEY: D Democrat G Green L Libertarian R Republican *Incumbent

Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, presiding judge R David J. Schenck D Holly Taylor Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 7 R Gina Parker D Nancy Mulder Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 8 R Lee Finley D Chika Anyiam State Board of Education, District 10 R Tom Maynard* D Raquel Saenz Ortiz State representative, District 20 R Terry M. Wilson* D Stephen M. Wyman State representative, District 52 R Caroline Harris Davila* D Jennie Birkholz State representative, District 136

Liberty Hill ISD, Proposition B Authorizing the Board of Trustees of the Liberty Hill Independent School District to purchase attendance

Sample ballot

Federal elections President

credits with local tax revenues. Williamson County attorney R Dee Hobbs* D Amy Lyn Lefkowitz

R Donald Trump D Kamala Harris L Chase Oliver G Jill Stein U.S. Senate R Ted Cruz* D Colin Allred L Ted Brown U.S. representative, District 17 R Pete Sessions* D Mark Lorenzen U.S. representative, District 31 R John Carter* D Stuart Whitlow State elections Texas railroad commissioner

Williamson County sheriff R Matthew Lindemann D Mike Gleason* Williamson County commissioner, Precinct 3

R Valerie Covey* L Wes Benedict Williamson County constable, Precinct 4 R Paul L. Leal* D Kenneth Guerrero Williamson County Emergency Services District No. 8, Proposition A The adoption of a local sales and use tax in Williamson County Emergency Services District No. 8 at a rate not to exceed two percent in any location in the district.

R Amin Salahuddin D John H. Bucy III* 3rd Court of Appeals District, Place 2 R John Messinger D Maggie Ellis

R Christi Craddick* D Katherine Culbert L Hawk Dunlap G Eddie Espinoza Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 2 R Jimmy Blacklock* D DaSean Jones Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 4 R John Devine* D Christine Vinh Weems Texas Supreme Court justice, Place 6 R Jane Bland* D Bonnie Lee Goldstein L J. David Roberson

Voting dates and times

Williamson County Early voting will take place in Williamson County according to the following schedule: Oct. 21-26, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 27, noon-6 p.m. Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Election Day is Nov. 5. Voting hours are 7 a.m.-7 p.m. statewide.

Local elections Liberty Hill ISD, Proposition A

Ratifying the ad valorem tax rate of $1.226900 per $100 valuation in the Liberty Hill Independent School District for the current year, a rate that will result in an increase of 21 percent in maintenance and operations tax revenue for the District for the current year as compared to the preceding year, which is an additional $13,334,196.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CLAIRE SHOOP

City of Georgetown Fire Station No. 6 6700 Williams Drive, Georgetown Community Bible Church of Weir 315 RM 1105, Weir The Delaney at Georgetown Village 359 Village Commons Blvd., Georgetown

Heritage Baptist Church 1601 FM 971, Georgetown Northstar Georgetown

Polling locations

Early voting City of Georgetown Fire Station No. 6 6700 Williams Drive, Georgetown Georgetown Annex 100 Wilco Way, Georgetown Georgetown City Hall 808 Martin Luther King Jr. St., Georgetown Georgetown ISD Technology Building 603 Lakeway Drive, Georgetown The Oaks Community Center - Sun City 301 Del Webb Blvd., Georgetown Randalls 5721 Williams Drive, Georgetown Election Day Carver Center for Families 1200 W. 17th St., Georgetown

2401 Westinghouse Road, Georgetown The Oaks Community Center - Sun City 301 Del Webb Blvd., Georgetown Randalls 5721 Williams Drive, Georgetown Southwestern University 1001 Southwestern Blvd., Georgetown

Emmaus Church of Georgetown 5060 E. Hwy. 29, Georgetown

First Baptist Church of Georgetown 1333 W. University Ave., Georgetown Georgetown Annex 100 Wilco Way, Georgetown Georgetown City Hall 808 Martin Luther King Jr. St., Georgetown Georgetown ISD Technology Building 603 Lakeway Drive, Georgetown Hammerlun Center for Leadership and Learning 507 E. University Ave., Georgetown

Walburg Community Center 4000 FM 972, Georgetown

Wilco Central Maintenance Facility 3151 SE Inner Loop, Georgetown

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

SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, WILLIAMSON COUNTY ELECTIONS DEPARTMENT/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Now accepting new patients

Rafael Amaro, M.D Gastroenterologist

Our Providers We welcome Dr Sooraj Tejaswi to our Georgetown location.

Jean Mbachu, M.D. Gastroenterologist

Sooraj Tejaswi, M.D. Gastroenterologist

Texas Digestive Disease Consultants

1900 Scenic Dr Ste 2218, Georgetown, TX 78626 | 512-341-0900

Visit TDDCTX.COM for more information

GEORGETOWN EDITION

Election

KEY: L Libertarian R Republican *Incumbent

Williamson County commissioner, Precinct 3

Why are you the best candidate for this seat?

If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?

I have served as commissioner [for] Precinct 3 since 2006, demonstrating strong leadership and problem-solving skills rooted in conservative values. My experience as a CPA allows me to use my skills to help balance the budget and pay down debt, saving taxpayers over $100 million.

My primary goals include promoting responsible growth, enhancing mental health services and maintaining fiscal responsibility. I aim to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace with our expanding population while supporting community initiatives that prioritize public safety and access to essential services for all residents.

Valerie Covey* Occupation & experience: Precinct 3 county commissioner, certified public accountant www.valeriecovey.com

Since getting a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Texas and an MBA and engineering master’s from University of Michigan, I’ve worked and traveled throughout the world. I started as a volunteer for the Libertarian Party but advanced to the national executive director position. I’ll do my best for you.

I want to cut taxes and spending enough so that the check you write for your property taxes gets smaller even when property values go up. We can do that by focusing on core services, cutting others, eliminating corporate welfare and cutting expenses on non- violent drug offenses.

Wes Benedict Occupation & experience: former Libertarian Party executive director, manufacturing engineer, countertop manufacturing business owner www.wesbenedict.com

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.

“

Care that puts my family first. That’s why Dell Children’s is my children’s hospital. ”

Your family never has to leave Austin for care, no matter how complex your child’s needs. We offer the most pediatric specialties and the most comprehensive care in Central Texas — all through the care system that’s been here from the start. Our doctors live here, are your neighbors, and really get to know you. Start a conversation today.

Find the doctor who’s right for your child at ascension.org/DellChildrens

Only in Austin. Only at Dell Children’s.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANNA MANESS

Williamson County constable, Precinct 4

Why are you the best candidate for this seat?

If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?

I’ve lived in this part of Williamson County all my life. Been serving in law enforcement for the last 27 years. Public service has always been a part of my life, serving is who I am, it’s what I am. Winner of the 2022 Law Enforcement Achievement Award for Public Service.

I was elected in 2020, and my goals, values and mission are the same: to be fair, impartial, transparent and consistent in all that we do; to have all sworn personnel earn their [FBI-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association] Trilogy Award; [to] hold illegal dumpers accountable; [and] to be fiscally responsible.

Paul L. Leal* Occupation & experience: elected constable with 27 years of experience, Williamson County Precinct 4 constable www.paulleal.com

I believe I am the most qualified candidate for this position. As an experienced law enforcement officer, I have dedicated my entire career with the constable’s office to keeping our community safe, developing the youth into the future leaders of our community, and enhancing community trust and transparency.

Once elected, I plan to involve the community in the decision-making process, seeking their input and feedback to develop fair and comprehensive solutions to the issues facing our community. The creation of a well-trained mental health unit and highway safety unit is a top priority of mine.

Kenneth Guerrero Occupation & experience: commander of a special response team, internal affairs, patrol, community outreach, training, recruiting, Travis County Precinct 2 sergeant https://bit.ly/47LOEas

WATER CONSERVATION REBATES NOWOPEN Georgetown Water Utility customers can qualify for up to $5,000 in rebates for completing water conservation projects, including: Irrigation checkup inspection Love Your Local Lawn native landscaping materials and labor Permanent removal of irrigation system (either by zone or entirely) Rainwater harvesting Texas Grown tree rebate materials and delivery

Digital hose water timer materials Pool cover materials

Lawn aeration and compost materials and labor Multi-stream nozzle conversion materials and labor Smart controller replacement materials and labor

SCAN TO LEARN MORE georgetowntexas.gov/water

All services, work, and/or projects must be performed on or after Oct. 1, 2024, to qualify. Fiscal year 2024 rebates will be open from Oct. 1, 2024-Sept. 15, 2025.

GEORGETOWN EDITION

Election

KEY: D Democrat R Republican *Incumbent

Williamson County sheriff

Why are you the best candidate for this seat?

If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?

For 39 years, I have protected and served Williamson County, including 21 years as a Texas Ranger. I have the varied experience needed to improve public safety, increase collaboration and lead [the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office] to ensure that Williamson County is a safe place to live and raise a family.

I will run a sheriff’s office that is tough on crime [and] accountable to the public; increase cooperation with local, state and federal partners; improve transparency within the community; focus on new programs to protect our community’s most vulnerable populations; and prevent future failed state jail inspections.

Matthew Lindemann Occupation & experience: retired Texas Ranger, 39 years as a law enforcement officer, Williamson County Precinct 3 constable www.lindemannforwilcosheriff.com

I am the best candidate for this seat because I am already elected by the Williamson County voters as sheriff. I have been employed by the sheriff’s office since 1993, except for the previous administration of Robert Chody. I have worked in every aspect of the sheriff’s office.

I will continue to operate within my budget and create cost savings measures like I have done in the last four years, saving taxpayers millions of dollars. I will continue to keep the office transparent and constitutionally grounded.

Mike Gleason* Occupation & experience: law enforcement professional for 31 years, Williamson County Sheriff (2021-present) www.sheriffgleasonwilliamson county.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANNA MANESS

Williamson County attorney

Why are you the best candidate for this seat?

If elected, what are your goals for Williamson County?

My knowledge, experience, work ethic and passion for serving my community. Experience in the office provides knowledge on programs to maintain, and how and where to improve. I understand the challenges our county, our law enforcement and our citizens are facing, and how best to continue to address those challenges.

Maintain successful programs while seeking and implementing innovative methods to better serve [the] community through the following areas: DWI/ Drug Court, Veterans Court, mental health, pretrial diversion, juvenile prosecution, adult misdemeanor prosecution, public information, representing [the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services], legal advice to county elected officials, restitution for victims, bond forfeitures [and] protective orders for victims. My immediate goals will be to fix the issues currently causing children to be returned to dangerous situations, CPS cases, provide opportunities for meaningful mental health and substance abuse treatment to misdemeanor offenders, and create more opportunities for criminal case diversion for young offenders to provide better pathways going forward.

Dee Hobbs* Occupation & experience: prosecutor for Williamson County since September of 2001, Williamson County attorney www.votehobbs.com

The office of county attorney handles misdemeanor prosecution, juvenile prosecution, [Child Protective Services] cases, mental health commitments and other civil matters for the county. I have been practicing opposite this office for my entire career and am well aware of the inefficiencies and roadblocks currently in place that need to be addressed.

Amy Lyn Lefkowitz Occupation & experience: practicing criminal, mental health and probate law for over a decade in Williamson County, attorney www.amy4wilco.com

GEORGETOWN EDITION

2024 Sales and Use Tax Election Emergency Services District No. 8 On November 5, 2024, voters within Williamson County ESD No. 8 will consider Proposition A: the adoption of up to a 2% sales and use tax to fund local emergency services, bringing the total tax rate to 8.25%.This tax would apply to all goods purchased in ESD 8 as well as at online retailers.

Proposition A would:

Maintain a high level of emergency service for ESD 8 residents

Support the Georgetown Fire Department’s 10-year plan to build up to three new fire stations and hire additional staff

Bring tax dollars local

Election Dates

If approved, the 2% local sales tax will fund emergency services in ESD 8 at a similar rate to neighboring districts, including Liberty Hill, Hutto, Jarrell, and Florence—all of which fund their emergency services through a combination of property tax and sales tax. Without additional funding, emergency response times are likely to increase.

October 21 - November 1: Early in-person voting October 25: Last day to request a ballot by mail November 5: Election Day

About Emergency Services District No. 8 ESD 8 is the taxing entity responsible for overseeing fire and medical emergency services in the area. It ensures that residents in rural areas outside of the City of Georgetown receive high-quality emergency response from the Georgetown Fire Department.

Visit WilcoESD8.org for more information | Visit WilcoTX.gov/elections for polling locations and hours Paid for by Williamson County ESD No.8

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

KEY: D Democrat R Republican *Incumbent

Note: Neither candidate for Texas House of Representatives, District 20 responded to the Q&A request.

Texas House of Representatives, District 52

What will be your top priorities if you are elected?

What uniquely qualifies you for this position?

I’m committed to protecting our kids, lowering taxes and securing the border. We need to address rising costs, and while inflation is driven by decisions in D.C., I will continue to support a balanced budget and fight waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer money in Texas.

I was recognized as Freshman of the Year in my first legislative session for my strong advocacy and accomplishments. I’ve lived in our community for over two decades and have spent many years volunteering in my local church and for other organizations in our community.

Caroline Harris Davila* Occupation & experience: nonprofit work; eight years working in the Texas Legislature; Masters of Public

Affairs, University of Texas www.carolinefortexas.com

Strengthen our public schools with increased funding, teacher pay raises and increased student supports. Fight school voucher scams. Protect a woman’s right to access health care and make personal decisions about family planning. Ensure affordable and accessible health care. Address housing affordability, and support Texan workers, families and retirees.

With extensive health care leadership experience and strong community ties, I understand the challenges faced by families in HD 52. My commitment to public service fuels my advocacy for meaningful change. I will bring together diverse voices to address critical issues like health care access and education, ensuring a brighter future for our community.

Jennie Birkholz Occupation & experience: small business owner, national health care leader, public education advocate, served as White House advisor, mom www.birkholzfortexas.com

Texas House of Representatives, District 136

What will be your top priorities if you are elected?

What uniquely qualifies you for this position?

My top priorities will be to continue to improve access to health care and grow the privately funded charity clinics I launched without burdening taxpayers. I will continue to improve economic development in Williamson County. As a minority, I will make sure all voices are respected and heard.

I've created apps and methods that help medical personnel implement health care administrative policies for over 25 years. I launched a tech startup in 2010, and further invested in Artificial Intelligence to create next [generation] tech jobs. I served as a board member for the Round Rock Chamber for over five years.

Amin Salahuddin Occupation & experience: founded over a dozen free medical clinics, past board member Round Rock Police Foundation, tech entrepreneur, servant leader www.aminfortexas.com

My top priorities are funding our public schools; increasing access to health care, including abortion, [in vitro fertilization], and contraception; expanding voting rights; protecting the environment; and fighting for equality for all Texans. I’ve also passed laws creating jobs, supporting economic development and tourism, and increasing economic opportunity in Williamson County.

I’m a consensus builder and proven leader who has been effective in bringing people together to solve the problems we face. While I am consistently among the most progressive members of the legislature, I am firmly committed to the Texas House’s traditions of bipartisanship and thoughtful deliberation.

John H. Bucy III* Occupation & experience: small business owner, proud father, three- term state representative, former WilCo Dems chair www.bucyfortexas.com

GEORGETOWN EDITION

ESD 8 seeks to capture sales tax in Georgetown area From the cover

What you need to know

ESD 8 and the city of Georgetown have a cost- sharing agreement to finance fire and EMS services. The agreement uses a formula that takes into account the population, the square footage of buildings and the number of calls for service in both the ETJ and the city, among other factors, to determine that the ESD should pay for about 20% of the total costs for services. Sullivan said by structuring the department this way, neither entity is subsidizing the other, and neither is paying for the full cost of infrastructure and other shared resources. The population of the ESD’s jurisdiction continues to grow, approaching nearly 40,000, Sullivan said. Reflecting on the last 10 years, Sullivan said calls for service increased by 250%, and if the department had not built new stations during that time, there would have been horrible outcomes for the community in terms of loss of life and property. “This next 10 years is also critically important because the growth is continuing,” he said. To address this growth, a master plan commissioned by the department recommends hiring six additional firefighters every year for the next 10 years and opening a new station every three years during that time. However, Sullivan said the ESD is struggling to meet the financial obligations of the cost-sharing agreement, and would be unable to do so if the department moves forward with the master plan’s recommendations. Furthermore, Sullivan said response times are getting longer in the ESD due to places being spread out and farther away from a station. Sullivan said it’s not uncommon for it to take 13-15 minutes for an ambulance to arrive on scene, despite the department’s goal of 10 minutes. The way to address this, he said, is more resources.

Georgetown Fire Department and ESD 8 service area

195

Georgetown city limits

ESD 8

Current fire stations

Proposed fire stations 1 Hwy. 29 and the Southwest Bypass 2 Westinghouse Road and FM 1460 3 Leander Road and Parkside Parkway

130 TOLL

2243

NOTE: THE ESD AND THE CITY ALSO HAVE A SITE AT BERRY CREEK HIGHLANDS AND HWY. 195 AND ARE WORKING TO ACQUIRE LAND AT RONALD REAGAN BOULEVARD AND SUN CITY BOULEVARD FOR FUTURE STATIONS OUTSIDE THE 10-YEAR PLAN.

SOURCE: EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT NO. 8/COMMUNITY IMPACT

From January through September, 90% of the time the first unit arrived within the times below. Unit City ESD 8

“The city of Georgetown and ESD 8 have had a longstanding partnership,” Georgetown City Manager David Morgan said in a statement. “Without the sales tax revenue, ESD 8 won’t be able to meet its obligations in the contract. As ESD 8 grows, this will limit the ability to hire firefighters and add new stations to maintain service levels.”

Fire engine or fire/EMS

10 mins 22 secs 13 mins 45 secs

Ambulance 14 mins 21 secs 17 mins 14 secs

BRAND BUSINESS your WITH STICKIES • Exclusive front cover placement • Targeted mailbox delivery • Competitive pricing

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM/ADVERTISE (866) 989-6808

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY CLAIRE SHOOP

Sales tax breakdown

Looking ahead

Explained

City

6.25%: state of Texas 1%: general operating purposes 0.5%: transportation improvements 0.25%: street maintenance 0.125%: Georgetown Economic Development Corp. 0.125%: property tax relief

During the ESD’s education efforts, Sullivan said the department found people have misconceptions about what the increased sales tax would mean. He said many people believed the rate in the ESD was already 8.25% and that approval of the proposition would raise the rate to 10.25%. This is untrue, as the sales tax rate in the ESD is 6.25%—with all of the revenue going to the state. The election would raise the rate to 8.25%, with the extra 2% remaining with the ESD. Sullivan said many retailers, including online sellers, are already charging residents of the ESD 8.25%, and all of those dollars are going to the state. “In this type of initiative, what we’re doing is we’re trying to provide more local control for how those dollars are spent,” Sullivan said. Justin Word, one of the five commissioners for ESD 8, said another misconception is the thought that with all the new home growth, the ESD’s property tax rate of $0.096817 per $100 valuation would be able to sufficiently fund its operations.

If approved, Sullivan said the sales tax would provide the ESD $4 million more in revenue annually. If it’s not approved, Word said the district has no way to execute on the 10-year plan, meaning fire stations don’t get built and response times risk getting longer. Neither ESD officials nor other involved parties had heard about any coordinated efforts against the proposition. ESD resident Tom Grinstead went to an ESD event where he first heard about the ballot measure. He said he’s not worried about the sales tax increase, especially after learning he’s often already paying an 8.25% sales tax. He said he wasn’t aware of the ballot measure last year, and doesn’t know if he saw it or how he voted. He fears the same thing will happen to others. “I hope we’ve … gotten the message out there so they understand what they’re voting for,” Word said.

8.25%

Current

ESD 8

6.25%: state of Texas

2%: ESD 8

Current

6.25%

8.25%

If approved

SOURCES: CITY OF GEORGETOWN, EMERGENCY SERVICES DISTRICT NO. 8/COMMUNITY IMPACT

He said a higher property tax rate would bring in the money to cover rising costs, but the state limits ESD property tax rates to $0.10 per $100 valuation. Additionally, Sullivan said adding a sales tax to the ESD’s revenue streams distributes the tax burden to more than just residents of the ESD, with visitors to the area now helping to pay for services.

SERVING CENTRAL TEXAS SINCE 1973 Our highly trained and board-certified team has collectively cared for thousands of patients. Personalized treatment plans directly impact patient quality of life and outcomes.

OUR SERVICES • Radiation Therapy • Prostate Brachytherapy • Targeted Therapy • TreatVarious Cancer Types

Caitlin White, FNP-C

Stephen Brown, MD, FACR

Douglas Rivera, MD

2000 Scenic Drive, Suite G002 | Georgetown, TX 78626 CentralTexasCancerCenters.com | Phone: 512-531-5200

GEORGETOWN EDITION

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32-33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64

communityimpact.com