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San Marcos Buda Kyle Edition VOLUME 16, ISSUE 12 APRIL 23 MAY 21, 2026
Wedding Guide
Hays County drought worsens
BSEACD’s aquifer jurisdiction The recharge zone features cracks, holes, ssures and caves that allow rainfall to directly enter the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer. The con ned zone features additional rock on top of the aquifer, preventing water from getting through.
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN
While recent rainfall has slowed the decline, it has not reversed the severity of the drought, said Shay Hlavaty, BSEACD communications and outreach manager. Justin Camp, a BSEACD hydrogeologist technician, said the water level at the Lovelady Monitor Well was just 5 inches above the Stage 4 threshold April 9. Hays County domestic well owners may feel drought eects more sharply as groundwater levels drop.
Residents across Hays County may face tighter water restrictions and higher costs in the coming months as drought conditions worsen. The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District, or BSEACD, is moving closer to declaring its rst Stage 4 Emergency Response Period in the district’s nearly 40-year history. O cials told Community Impact the declaration will be considered at a May 14 board meeting.
Zones
Con ned Recharge
290
71
Buda
Shared Exclusive Managed areas SOURCE: BSEACD COMMUNITY IMPACT
Kyle
San Marcos
CONTINUED ON 22
35
130
183
Justin Camp, a Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District hydrogeologist technician, measures ow at Barton Springs. Now in its 45th consecutive month, drought has lowered spring discharge and groundwater levels. (Michael Milliorn/Community Impact)
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Care that’s close when every minute matters. Your Buda ER is open 24/7.
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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. ©2025 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-BU-1624250-Buda-ER-JC
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
66% of Hays County residential properties didn’t protest their 2025 property taxes.
Last year in Hays County, 66% of residential properties (64,113) homes didn’t protest their property taxes, meaning many homeowners may have paid more than necessary.¹
For those who did challenge their assessment, 87% won a reduction. ¹
That means thousands of homeowners could have saved hundreds or even thousands of dollars simply by filing a protest.
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¹ ownwell.com/results/texas-protest-vs-non-protest • ² ownwell.com/insight/austin-area-property-tax-protest-results-agent-performance
3
SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
About Community Impact
Community Roots: Founded in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, we remain a locally owned business today. Texas-Wide Reach: We deliver trusted news to 75+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio metros.
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Brittany Anderson Katlynn Fox Jessica McLaren Bailey Meyers Michael Milliorn Jillian Nachtigal Hannah Norton Daniel Schwalm Hamera Shabbir Brooke Sjoberg Ben Thompson Gracie Warhurst Sienna Wight Chloe Young Graphic Designers Abbey Eckhardt Alissa Foss
Leslie Bradshaw General Manager lbradshaw@ communityimpact.com
Minh Nguyen Laura Patino Joseph Veloz Managing Editor Darcy Sprague Product Manager Gloria Amareth Quality Desk Editor Adrian Gandara Austin Market President Travis Baker
Amanda Cutshall Editor acutshall@ communityimpact.com
Adrian Martinez Account Executive adrian.martinez@ communityimpact.com
Contact us
16225 Impact Way, P ugerville, TX 78660 • 512 989 6808 Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases sbknews@communityimpact.com Advertising sbkads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Impacts
Coming soon
1
3 Birkenstock The footwear brand sells sandals, clogs, professional shoes, sneakers, boots and footwear-related accessories for men, women and children. • Opening by May • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 S. I-35, Ste. 1350, San Marcos • www.birkenstock.com 4 Sephora The popular beauty retailer offers a wide selection of makeup, skincare and haircare products, as well as fragrances. • Opening in June • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 S. I-35, San Marcos • www.sephora.com 5 Home2 Suites by Hilton The pet-friendly, extended-stay hotel will house 111 suites with kitchenettes, laundry facilities, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool and patio with barbecue grills and a fire pit. • Opening in mid-2027 • 1315 Center Point Road, San Marcos • www.hilton.com/en/brands/home2-suites
AQUARENA SPRINGS DR.
21
N. LBJ DR.
12
S. GUADALUPE ST.
1984
80
6
8
San Marcos
SAN MARCOS RIVER
35
LEAH AVE.
123
3
2
10 4 11
WHEAT FIELD LN.
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621
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What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS
RATTLER RD.
DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION
CENTER POINT RD.
6 Dos Gatos Kolache Bakery Renovation on the bakery’s third San Marcos location is set for completion Nov. 2. Dos Gatos Kolache Bakery offers Czech-style kolaches made in-house daily. • 1004 I-35, San Marcos • www.dosgatoskolaches.com
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N TM; © 2026 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
San Marcos
• 2977 S. I-35, Ste. 102, San Marcos • www.kuripets.com
Now open
2 Slim Chickens The eatery features fried and grilled chicken dishes with 14 sauce options at the former Zaxby’s Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings location, which closed in June 2025. • Opened April 6
In the news
1 Kuri Pet Resort Owner Robyn Leenaerts returned to her hometown with a 10,000-square-foot luxury dog and cat boarding, day care and grooming facility. • Opened Mar. 19
7 Le Creuset The store reopened March 21 and is best known for its colorfully enameled cast-iron cookware, stainless cookware, bakeware, pots, pans and kitchen and bar tools.
• 4002 S. I-35, San Marcos • https://slimchickens.com
April 25 & 26, 2026 | 8am - 6pm Races on Saturday and Sunday | BBQ Cook-off (Saturday) | Pet Parade (Saturday) Craft and Food Vendors | Kid Games | Entertainment Visit: www.Budalions.com or @Budalions The Buda Lion’s Club PRESENTS THE 29th Annual Wiener Dog Races Buda City Park 204 San Antonio St, Buda, TX 78610
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLIORN
• Tanger Outlets, 4015 S. I-35, Ste. 330A, San Marcos • www.lecreuset.com
Now open
Closings
Relocations
8 Pennington Funeral Home Established in 1897, owner Terry Woodall moved the historic funeral home business from 323 N. Comanche St., San Marcos, to a temporary location while he searches for a bigger, permanent space in San Marcos. • www.penningtonfuneralhome.com
Closings
9 Eddie Bauer Outlet The outerwear brand’s brick-and-mortar location will close after its operating company, Eddie Bauer LLC, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Feb 9. • Closing TBD • Tanger Outlets, 4015 S. I-35, Ste. 640, San Marcos • www.eddiebauer.com
10 Perfume World Austin business owner Amin Hussain offers viral, designer and hard-to-find perfumes and colognes. Hussain also owns Royal Jewelers in the San Marcos Premium Outlets. • Opened March 15 • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 S. I-35, Ste. 209, San Marcos • Instagram: perfumeworldatx
11 Neiman Marcus Last Call The outlet store will shut its doors following major closures by its parent company, Saks Global. Officials announced on Jan. 29 that they will close all remaining Last Call stores following liquidation sales. • Closing TBD • San Marcos Premium Outlets, 3939 S. I-35, Ste. 1105, San Marcos • www.neimanmarcus.com
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OUR STORY
LEE IDOM 512-993-0071 lonestarparkbuda@gmail.com
2710 Business Park Buda, TX 78610 lonestarbusinesspark.net
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
Impacts
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN & SIENNA WIGHT
• Opened Feb. 21 • 200 N. Main St., Cottage B, Buda • www.organicallywhole.com
will repurpose at least 60% of the existing space for businesses that will generate retail sales tax within 18 months of the new supermarket’s opening. • Construction begins in mid-to-late 2026 • Intersection of Old San Antonio Road and Main Street • www.heb.com
4
OLD SAN ANTONIO RD.
Coming soon
6
2 Buda Ice Cream Shoppe Locals Tim and Alex Otto will bring old-fashioned ice cream to Buda’s historic downtown area. The Ottos also own Kids Tooth Team Pediatric Dentistry at 1245 Main St., Ste. 300, Buda. • Opening May 15 • 112 N. Main St., Buda • No website as of press time 3 Frontier Bank The nancial institution will add a second location in Buda. The rst is at 589 N. FM 1626, Ste. 306. The company was founded in 2007 in Elgin and provides banking services for individuals and business owners. • Opening in fall • 215 Railroad St., Buda • www.frontierbankoftexas.bank 4 H E B The Texas-based grocery chain will launch a store just north of the current one at 15300 S. I-35. H-E-B
In the news
RAILROAD ST.
1
3
5 Joshua’s Stage The nonpro t o ers theater and enrichment programs for children and young adults with special needs, including workshops, one-on-one enrichment, birthday parties, playdates and after-school activities. • Inspired Minds Art Center, 121 Main St., Buda • www.joshuasstage.org 6 ATI Physical Therapy The physical therapy team is celebrating ve years of service to the Buda community. Providers o er pelvic therapy, hand therapy, sports therapy, oncology recovery and more. • 245 Main St., Ste. 230, Bldg. 200, Buda • www.atipt.com
35
CABELAS DR.
2
5
W. GOFORTH RD.
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N TM; © 2026 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Buda
Now open
1 Organically Whole Health & Wellness Owner Anita Lansing o ers natural, non-invasive treatments to reduce in ammation, boost energy, improve circulation and sleep, strengthen muscles and ease soreness.
JOIN OUR PACK! Camp memberships as low as $18 a day
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Impacts
2001
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN, BROOKE SJOBERG & SIENNA WIGHT
3 Pretty Luxe Beauty Locally owned and operated by esthetician Mandy Montoro, the studio o ers tanning, waxing, lash lifts and more. • Opened in March
HEROES MEMORIAL DR. 1
4
2001
1626
NEIDERWALD STRASSE 3
WINDY HILL RD.
2
KOHLERS CROSSING
• 7212 Goforth Road, Ste. 101, Kyle • Facebook: Prettyluxeesthetics
1626
150
Coming soon
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BLANCO RIVER
4 We Are Blood The Central Texas-based blood donation nonpro t will o er whole blood, platelet and double red donations. • Opening this summer • 19037 N. I-35, Ste. 2, Kyle • www.weareblood.org/kyle-center
Kyle
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N TM; © 2026 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Kyle
• Opened March 31 • 150 Heroes Memorial Drive, Bldg. A-100, Kyle • www.jeremiahsice.com 2 JuiceLand Set in the former Inta Juice spot, which closed Nov. 10, 2024, the Austin-based cafe o ers a variety of smoothies, lattes, wellness shots and snacks. • Opened March 26 • 5401 FM 1626, Ste. 185, Kyle • www.juiceland.com
In the news
Now open
5 PAWS Shelter of Central Texas The nonpro t, no-kill rescue organization is celebrating 40 years of dedication to saving dogs and cats in the Hays County area.
1 Jeremiah’s Italian Ice The shop o ers 30 avors of housemade Italian ice and creamy soft serve with rotating avors. The two treats can be layered to create the brand’s “Jelati,” which customers can decorate with mix-ins such as Oreo crumbles and Rainbow Nerds.
• 500 E. FM 150, Kyle • www.pawsshelter.org
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Government
BY MICHEAL MILLIORN
Out-of-town visitors to pay Rio Vista Park fee Out-of-town visitors hoping to use Rio Vista Park for kayaking, swimming, sunbathing or tubing this summer will be required to pay a man- aged access fee after the San Marcos City Council approved an ordinance April 7, creating a revenue source to help o set seasonal park operations costs. What you need to know From Memorial Day through Labor Day, on weekends and holidays, non-local area partici- pants will pay a $5 daily fee for access to Rio Vista Park. Those exempt from the fee include individuals residing within at least one of the following areas: • San Marcos city limits • San Marcos CISD boundaries • 78666 ZIP code
Buda grants $10.29M sewer pipeline contract Buda residents could see more wastewa- ter treatment capacity after City Council approved a $10.29 million contract March 24 for a pipeline that will carry treated waste- water to a new discharge point, building on the city’s 2022 wastewater treatment plant expansion. The snapshot The Sun eld E uent Force Main Project features the construction of an approxi- mately 18,000-linear-foot-long gravity sewer pipeline from the wastewater treatment plant to a discharge location in the Sun eld Municipal Utility District. MA Smith Contracting Co. Construction is expected to begin work in May and nish by May 2027.
$5 entry for out- of-town visitors on weekends and holidays, May 22-Sept. 7
Cormac Flaherty rides a rapid at the Rio Vista Park connection to the San Marcos River.
MICHAEL MILLIORN COMMUNITY IMPACT
Kyle OKs $30K nancial assistance program for utilities Kyle residents experiencing nancial struggles may soon be able to receive relief for utility costs from the city. The City Council approved a Utility Customer Assistance Program—a six-month pilot program—April 7. What’s happening?
The program covers multiple services, including: Water: up to $100 per month, not to exceed $600 per calendar year
nancial support for essential water, wastewater, solid waste and storm drainage services, according to agenda documents. The program is not a citywide rate-reduction program. UCAP assistance is applied as capped bill credits rather than uncapped bill forgiveness. The pilot program will be nanced by the city’s Water and Wastewater Fund and capped at $30,000 for total assistance.
Wastewater: up to $50 per month, not to exceed $300 per calendar year
Garbage: up to $25 per month, not to exceed $150 per calendar year Storm drainage: up to $15 per month, not to exceed $90 per calendar year
The UCAP provides active residential city of Kyle utility customers with targeted, temporary
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLE COMMUNITY IMPACT
www.jdacpa1.com 310 Stagecoach Trail #100B San Marcos, TX 78666 CALL 512-396-CPA1 Hello, Neighbor
TAX SERVICES• SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING PAYROLL• QUICKBOOKS CONSULTING
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Education
BY SIENNA WIGHT
More than 1,000 employees at Hays CISD will be a ected by $12.25 million in budget cuts for scal year 2026-27. This comes following approval from trustees at a March 30 meeting—just four days after district o cials said the cuts would create a surplus budget and rebuild the fund balance after several years of nancial struggles. Because almost 90% of HCISD’s budget is spent on salaries, o cials said the amount of cuts they needed to make could not be achieved without a ecting jobs. The proposed cuts include the loss or change of 125 positions and the suspension of 970 stipends. Other cost savings include increasing class sizes, resulting in student- to-teacher ratios ranging from 24-1 to 30-1; social services; virtual learning models; ne arts and athletics. O cials outlined plans to reduce the e ect of these changes to students, such as the introduction of a fth quarter to sporting events to allow all students to participate in lieu of some sporting teams being cut. Hays CISD cuts budget by $12M
What they’re saying
Breaking down the budget cuts
1 Increased class sizes: $5M 2 Central o ce and district sta personnel cuts: $2.7M 3 Suspension of certain sta stipends, incentives and surcharge payment coverage: $2.3M 4 Library and social services reductions: $860K 5 Fine arts and athletics reductions: $826.7K 6 Restructuring of attendance and PEIMS (Public Education Information Management System) reporting: $550.9K
“As class sizes grow, it becomes increasingly more di cult for me as their teacher to meet those needs fully,” HCISD kindergarten teacher Anaissa Ortiz-Wong said at the meeting. Ortiz-Wong added that larger class sizes make it more challenging to ensure consistent supervision to meet each learner’s needs. Trustees also shared their perspectives on cuts and the state of public school funding. Several trustees, including Esperanza Orosco and Vanessa Petrea, defended Superintendent Eric Wright amid criticism over his salary and leadership. Petrea said that Wright is recognized as one of the best superintendents in the state.
1
2
3 4 5 6
Positions to be a ected More than 1,000 out of 3,600 total positions will be directly a ected by cuts. Chief Communication O cer Tim Savoy said there are 32 employees who do not currently have a position for the 2026-27 school year.
“We get no joy from making these hard cuts. No joy at all.” ESPERANZA OROSCO, HAYS CISD BOARD MEMBER
2
1 Positions cut or changed: 125 2 Positions with stipend suspension: 970 3 Positions not directly
Total: 3,600
3
1
a ected: 2,505
SOURCE: HAYS CISD COMMUNITY IMPACT
How we got here
when waiting for funding to come in. The district initially anticipated cutting $20 million and 200 positions over three years, but Savoy said they would not be able to do that without “signi cant damage” to the educational product.
student to compensate for in ation. HCISD has been pulling from the fund balance to maintain operations since 2021 and it has depleted to approximately $20 million. According to the district, the fund balance should be at least $65 million to cover three months of operating expenses
The Texas Education Agency provides a basic allotment of $6,215 per student to public schools. This is a $55 increase from the previous rate of $6,160, which was set in 2019. Chief Communications O cer Tim Savoy said the state would need to provide about $7,000 per
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY MICHAEL MILLIORN
Upcoming projects
1626
WILD WIND COVE
45 TOLL
1 Old Black Colony Road renovation Project: The project includes widening the existing roadway, improving drainage and adding sidewalks and cycling accommodations. Update: The city received the first set of proposed easements and right-of-way boundaries. Once the areas are surveyed, city staff may prepare agreements needed before construction begins. • Timeline: 2021-TBD • Cost: $24 million • Funding source: 2021 Buda bond 2 West Goforth Road reconstruction Project: Crews will complete a full-depth asphalt pavement reconstruction from S. Loop 4 to I-35, widen the existing roadway, improve drainage and add sidewalks and cycling accommodations. Update: The team is working through the 60% design. • Timeline: 2021-TBD • Cost: $20.9 million • Funding source: 2021 Buda bond 3 Bishop and Belvin Street improvements Project: Work includes road reconstruction with drainage, water, wastewater, retaining walls and sidewalk improvements. A Natural channel restoration methods will be used to widen the creek parallel to Veramendi Street. Update: The revised easement documents have been received, and the pre-final design stage plans are in progress. • Timeline: 2026-29 • Cost: $16.95 million • Funding source: San Marcos Capital Improvements Plan 4 Uhland railroad updates Project: Union Pacific will install four-quadrant gates with two crossing arms on each side of the railroad tracks at the Uhland Road intersection. Update: A public authority application was submitted March 24, and the design of the Union Pacific signals has begun. The PAA will give the city authorization to complete the construction project impacting the railroad property.
967
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MIDDLE CREEK DR.
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Buda
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OLD BLACK COLONY RD.
W. GOFORTH RD.
Buda
2001
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San Marcos
San Marcos
San Marcos
3A
N. JOHNSON AVE.
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150
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W. SAN ANTONIO ST.
6
CANYON RD.
S. BISHOP ST.
PITT ST.
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BLANCO RIVER
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Kyle • Timeline: 2025-27 • Cost: $361,499 • Funding source: San Marcos Capital Improvements Plan
6 Sessom Creek bank stabilization and sewer work at Canyon Road Project: Phase 2 of the project will feature the installation of approximately 1,700 feet of sanitary sewer line and the reinforcement of creek banks. Phase 1 was completed in May 2023 and included the removal of the wastewater line, a storm drain upgrade and stream restoration. Update: Crews have completed utility work and started reconstructing Canyon Road. Wastewater work has also begun in the upper portion of Sessom Creek. • Timeline: 2025-26 • Cost: $3.4 million • Funding source: City of San Marcos and the Edwards Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan
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Ongoing projects
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5 Middle Creek Drive rehabilitation Project: The project will reconstruct the roadway to improve groundwater and irrigation system infiltration and pavement condition through crack sealing, reconstruction and a thin mill and overlay. Update: Underdrain installation on the westbound lane is now complete and rehabilitation work began Jan. 26.
• Timeline: 2021-26 • Cost: $3.8 million • Funding source: 2021 Buda bond
Promote your business
Coming Soon! Community Impact’s Home Guide
Scan, call 512.989.1000 or email ads@communityimpact.com
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Business
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Wedding Guide With fall marking one of Central Texas’ busiest wedding seasons, this guide highlights local, budget-friendly and unique venues and vendors for Hays County couples preparing to walk down the aisle. Whether searching for a rustic backdrop, an intimate venue or local services, this guide o ers a starting point for planning close to home.
2026
Hays County wedding market snapshot 138 average guest count 1,168 weddings $33,090 average wedding cost $38.6M estimated annual wedding market value
Where to go Marriage licenses are nalized at the county clerk’s o ces 1 Hays County Clerk’s O ce 712 S. Stagecoach Trail, Ste. 2008, San Marcos 2 Hays County Precinct 2 5458 FM 2770, Kyle 3 Hays County Precinct 3 200 Stillwater Road, Ste. 101, Wimberley 4 Hays County Precinct 4 195 Roger Hanks Parkway, Ste. 113, Dripping Springs
2770
OLD KYLE RD.
150
290
2
Marriage license steps
VETERANS DR. W. CENTER ST.
3
Apply online at https://erss.co.hays.tx.us/web
Wimberley
4
Kyle
STILLWATER RD.
Visit the County Clerk
Did you know? An 8-hour Twogether in Texas premarital course cuts the license fee to $21 and waives the 72-hour wait. www.twogetherintexas.com
35
Dripping Springs
Bring IDs and pay $81
12
STAGECOACH TRL.
Wait 72 hours
San Marcos
1
Get married and return license within 90 days
N
SOURCE: THE WEDDING REPORT 2025 DATA, HAYS COUNTY, U.S. CENSUS, ZOLACOMMUNITY IMPACT
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To schedule an appointment or consultation, call 512-515-9626
Ascension Texas © Ascension 2026. All rights reserved.
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SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Business
BY: MICHAEL MILLION
Chapel Dulcinea o ers free, budget-friendly wedding spaces Since 2005, Chapel Dulcinea has helped local couples tie the knot by providing an a ordable outdoor wedding venue. The Hill Country venue o ers a unique wedding location for couples, providing a deeply personal experience on the special day, said Samantha Bradshaw, Chapel Dulcinea visitor center director. Booking the venue Couples looking to wed at the chapel can secure the venue for a 90-minute period. On certain days and times, the venue can be booked for free with a refundable $200 deposit. “The owners of the property, Roy and Penny Williams, started o small,” Bradshaw said. “They didn’t have a lot of money. They don’t
Wedding scheduling and pricing
believe you should have to have a lot of money to have a beautiful place to get married.” Booking the venue is done completely online, where couples can access the reservation calen- dar and select between the free wedding slots, the $500 paid wedding slots and the $1,000 paid Night Flame wedding slot. The Night Flame wedding option o ers an elopement-style ceremony featuring 16 gas lanterns to light the venue. “The view itself is amazing,” Bradshaw said. “It’s one of the highest points in all of Austin. It’s just like a little magical oasis, a hidden gem.” The big day Couples who have booked the venue will check in on their selected date and time and receive a map of the property. They have 90 minutes to decorate as they please and hold their ceremony. “We want everyone here to have their own personal experience and have the day they envision,” Bradshaw said. “When you step on the property, you can feel the energy. It’s a really relaxing place.”
Type Days Times
Price
Free, $200 refundable deposit $500 non- refundable deposit $1,000 non- refundable deposit
Mon- Thurs
Free
8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Mon- Thurs; Fri-Sun
7-8:30 p.m.; 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Paid
Night Flame
Mon- Sun
8:30-10 p.m.
Chapel Dulcinea sits on 30 acres of property—about 2 miles west of Buda.
SOURCE: CHAPEL DULCINEA COMMUNITY IMPACT
1826
BEAR CREEK
CRYSTAL HILLS DR.
GOLDENWOOD WAY
WESTVIEW TRL.
N
16211 Crystal Hills Drive, Austin www.chapeldulcinea.org
Chapel Dulcinea provides a personalized wedding experience for Central Texas couples.
Chapel Dulcinea o ers local couples a unique, a ordable wedding venue with Hill Country views.
PHOTOS COURTESY CHAPEL DULCINEA
Business
Check out 6 Hays County wedding spaces From rustic ranches and historic charm to garden backdrops and scenic views, Hays County couples have a range of local wedding venue options to consider leading up to the “I do.” Buda o ers The Carrington’s historic downtown charm and Ruby Ranch Lodge’s rustic setting. In Kyle, couples can look to Texas Old Town for a Hill Country backdrop or Thistlewood Manor & Gardens for a French-inspired estate. In San Marcos, The Wild ower Country Inn & Event Center o ers a garden-lined backdrop, while Enchanted Ranch o ers a rustic feel.
Mustang Ridge
12
1
45 TOLL
2
Buda
ONION CREEK
Wimberley
4
Kyle
3
130 TOLL
BLANCO RIVER
5
21
35
32
12
Lockhart
142
San Marcos
6
80
183
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MAP NOT TO SCALE N
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18
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL & MICHAEL MILLIORN
1
2
NEW LOCATION OPEN SOON!!
Ruby Ranch Lodge • Capacity: 150 • Cost: $500-$4,800 • Deposit required: Yes • Lead time: None • 292 W. Barlett Drive, Buda • www.rubyranchlodge.com
The Carrington • Capacity: 165
• Cost: $2,350-$5,950 • Deposit required: Yes • Lead time: Contact venue • 300 N. Main St., Buda • www.thecarrington.net
220 RALPH ABLANEDO
Where community fuels progress, and every visit brings you closer to your fitness goals.
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Texas Old Town • Capacity: 300 • Cost: $1,500-$7,500 • Deposit required: Yes • Lead time: 12-18 months • 1205 Roland Lane, Kyle • www.texasoldtown.com
Thistlewood Manor & Gardens • Capacity: 250+
• Cost: $4,900-$6,500 • Deposit required: Yes • Lead time: 6-12 months • 1520 Roland Lane, Kyle • www.thistlewoodmanor.com
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6
Rope Climbing • Bouldering • Yoga Studio • Locker Room With Saunas Strength Training • Climbing Training & Classes • Open Gym • Fitness Classes • Yoga Classes • Lounge • Kids Room • Coffee Shop & Food Trucks
The Wild ower Country Event Center • Capacity: 120 • Cost: $1,050-$3,600 • Deposit required: Contact venue • Lead time: Contact venue • 900 RM 32, San Marcos • www.thewildflowercountryinn.com
The Enchanted Ranch • Capacity: 250 • Cost: $4,500-$8,000 • Deposit required: Yes • Lead time: Contact venue • 1300 Scull Road, San Marcos • www.myenchantedranch.com
VISIT US TODAY!
19
SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
Business
BY AMANDA CUTSHALL
Crystal River Inn’s picnic package includes a locally curated meal for two and framed photos of the couple.
COURTESY JEWEL HILL PHOTOGRAPHY
Surprise proposal packages
Romantic room $355 A decorated private room for two hours with candles, rose petals, framed photos and champagne Secret garden picnic $649 A one-hour lunch for two with a blanket, pillows, rose petals and framed photos Surprise garden $899 A large “Will You Marry Me” sign with house-dried orals, candles and an arch for one hour Surprise garden and party $1,299 The surprise garden package and food for up to 10 people for two hours
The team at Crystal River Inn partners with nearby businesses and musicians, including the Siren Strings, to customize surprise wedding proposal packages.
COURTESY JEWEL HILL PHOTOGRAPHY
San Marcos’ Crystal River Inn crafts custom proposals Before the wedding comes the big question, and at Crystal River Inn in downtown San Marcos, that moment can come with candles, a hidden garden and a lot of behind-the-scenes support. What they o er involves a lot of behind-the-scenes coordinating,” L’Etoile said. “We step in to handle those elements seamlessly.” What makes it special? The team partners with nearby vendors— from
private chefs to local musicians and more—to create custom packages, which L’Etoile said keeps things fun and special. She noted that creating such special memories is what she loves most and she appreciates when couples return to the inn. “Creating meaningful, memorable moments is really at the heart of what we do,” L’Etoile said. “Being trusted with those memories—whether it’s a wedding or a surprise proposal—means everything.”
When Corley L’Etoile and her husband, Eric, took over the venue in 2024, it had already hosted wed- dings for 40 years. L’Etoile said that adding surprise proposal packages seemed “like a natural t.” “We genuinely enjoy helping people create moments they’ll remember for a lifetime,” she said, noting that most want something special, but either don’t know where to start or don’t want to worry about the implementation. “A beautifully executed proposal or wedding
326 W. Hopkins St., San Marcos www.crystalriverinn.com
Saturday, May 2nd 10am-4pm A Great American Historic Home Tour of San Marcos, Texas
Lunch included with ticket purchase American style Hot Dogs, chips and drink Live auction at 2pm! Bid on custom picnic tables made by local San Marcos artists Spoke Hollow String Band performing live from 11:30-2pm Thank you to our sponsors: Palmer’s, Divided Sky Roofing, McCoys, La Cima, Crookwood and San Marcos Daily Record
20
SAN MARCOS BUDA KYLE EDITION
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21
SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
Hays County drought worsens From the cover
The impact
Pressure tank
SOURCES: BARTON SPRINGS-EDWARDS AQUIFER CONSERVATION DISTRICT, TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE EXTENSION/ COMMUNITY IMPACT How it works Lowered groundwater levels due to drought may result in damaged domestic well pumps.
Well head
Pump may pull air and become damaged
The conservation district has been in a constant drought at various stages of severity since July 2022, over 45 consecutive months. The district previously faced an eight-month drought from November 2020 until June 2021. BSEACD determines the current drought stage by examining groundwater levels at the Lovelady Monitor Well in South Austin and ow rates at Barton Springs. Groundwater levels at wells in the Edwards and Trinity aquifers throughout the district have declined similarly to those at the Lovelady Monitor Well and Barton Springs. “About 50% of Texans rely on groundwater,” Hlavaty said. “Throughout the Hill Country, we’re seeing similar dramatic declines in groundwater. That’s tons of people whose water resources are being threatened.” The district determines pumpage reductions by well permit type and the active drought stage, and may enforce penalties for repeated violations. It is
Aquifer Septic tank
Pump
said. Low water levels can also cause damage to well pumps. If the water level has dropped too low for the pump to reach, it may begin pumping air, resulting in low pressure and potentially thousands of dollars in damage. Well owners would then need to lower their pump or reduce usage to combat the issue. “We’re experiencing one of these long-term droughts, which is longer and more intense than what we’re used to on average, and we’re just waiting for rainfall,” Hlavaty said. “That drought- busting rainfall just hasn’t come.”
strongly recommended that owners implement their own conservation measures to reduce the drought’s impact on them, Hlavaty said. Due to the drought-driven drop in water levels, these privately owned wells may appear to have gone dry. “What actually may be happening is that the water is just down below where their pump is, so it can be sputtering and water may not be coming out,” Hlavaty said. Well owners may have to lower their pump to reach the groundwater—the process of which can be costly, time-intensive and inconvenient, Hlavaty
Kyle
San Marcos
San Marcos water restrictions
Kyle is under Stage 2 Amended Drought restrictions, so citizens using drip irrigation or soaker hoses are restricted to watering once a week. The city limits in-ground irrigation systems, spray systems and hose-end sprinklers to once every other week. The city operates four wells regulated by the Edwards Aquifer Authority and one regulated by BSEACD. With advancing drought stages, pumping limits get stricter. Kyle intends to expand its water supply through its regional partnership with Alliance Water, Mayor Yvonne Flores-Cale said. The city currently receives 19% of its water from the provider. Flores-Cale expects the amount to grow to 56% by 2032, expanding the city’s long-term water security.
Water providers, including BSEACD, may implement increased water restrictions on the cities they supply, Hlavaty said. The city of San Marcos receives water from the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, Edwards Aquifer Authority and Alliance Water. Alliance Water is a regional authority focused on addressing the water needs of its members that pumps from the Carrizo-Wil- cox Aquifer. The cities of Buda and Kyle, and the Canyon Regional Water Authority, are also members. San Marcos is currently under a Stage 3 drought—the city’s final stage before declar- ing an emergency. The city’s current drought restrictions focus mostly on outdoor water and irriga- tion, said San Marcos Conservation Coor- dinator Jan De La Cruz. While water usage is currently stable, an expected increase in the need for irrigation is a city concern as summer months approach, she added. San Marcos offers multiple programs to assist residents with water conservation, including free irrigation system evaluations. The city has a licensed irrigation inspector on staff to assist community members. “We can look at your irrigation system
Once a week
Drip system and soaker hose irrigation
Once every two weeks
Sprinkler irrigation
Prohibited
At-home car washing
Filling new and existing pools
SOURCE: CITY OF SAN MARCOS/COMMUNITY IMPACT
and not only make sure that it’s working efficiently, but also make sure that it’s scheduled properly for the current drought status,” De La Cruz said. The city offers a rebate to residents who convert some irrigation spray zones to drip zones or eliminate zones entirely. While Stage 3 is the highest stage the city may issue under normal conditions, a Stage 4 drought can be declared as an emergency response.
Kyle water providers and sources
Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority–Canyon Lake: 54% Alliance Water–Carrizo- Wilcox Aquifer: 19% EAA and BSEACD– Edwards Aquifer: 15% Interlocal agreements with city of San Marcos and Green Valley Special Utility District: 12%
SOURCE: CITY OF KYLE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY MICHEAL MILLIORN
Looking back
Hays County
Buda
Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra, who also serves as the emergency management director, called for all water providers, munic- ipalities and groundwater districts to issue Stage 4—or equivalent—water restrictions Feb. 4. His Stage 4 request would be defined by pumping reductions and the halt of nonessen- tial outdoor water use. Becerra proposed a moratorium on the issu- ance of new development permits to projects that require an immense amount of water, such as data centers, at a Feb. 24 Commission- ers Court meeting. He tabled the proposition following court discussion. On Mar. 23, District 45 state Rep. Erin Zwie- ner announced the creation of a Hays County working group that will address concerns with data centers, water use, and the authority of cities and counties to respond to related challenges.
BSEACD is one of the main water providers in Buda, which is currently under Stage 3 drought restrictions. At this level, most forms of irrigation are limited to once per week on designated days. Residents receiving water from the city must comply with all restrictions. “These restrictions are not arbitrary,” Buda Public Works Director Blair Murski said. “They are designed to help protect our shared water supply. ... Being good stewards of our water supply requires all of us to do our part. Every resident’s effort makes a difference.”
Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District drought history
2022
July: Stage 1 Alarm Drought declared November: Stage 2 Critical Drought declared January: Stage 3 Exceptional Drought declared February: drought stage reduced to Stage 2 Critical Drought following rainfall over the recharge zone March: drought stage reduced to Stage 1 Alarm Drought November: Stage 2 Critical Drought declared October: Stage 3 Exceptional Drought declared May: board of directors to reevaluate the current drought stage
2023
2024
Buda drought irrigation restrictions
2025
Drought stage
Hose-end and sprinkler irrigation restriction
2026
Twice per week • Tuesday and Friday (athletic fields, commercial, mixed-use, multi-family) • Wednesday and Saturday (odd- numbered residential) • Thursday and Sunday (even-numbered residential) Once per week • Tuesday (athletic fields, commercial, mixed-use, multi-family) • Wednesday (odd-numbered residential) • Thursday (even-numbered residential) • Friday (athletic fields) Once every two weeks • Tuesday (athletic fields, commercial, mixed-use, multi-family) • Wednesday (odd-numbered residential) • Thursday (even-numbered residential)
SOURCE: BARTON SPRINGS-EDWARDS AQUIFER CONSERVATION DISTRICT/ COMMUNITY IMPACT
Stage 1
The next steps
“We have spent a long time fighting water conservation in our county. We have been trying for years to do
Becerra organized a Clear Water Summit on March 27. The event brought together representatives from water providers, groundwater districts, and local and state officials to discuss drought conditions and increasing water demand. Attendees agreed to meet quarterly to continue discussions on water availability and industrial developments, Becerra said. A second summit will be held in San Marcos this June.
Stage 2 & Stage 3*
something, and it’s not been working, so it’s time to try something else.” RUBEN BECERRA, HAYS COUNTY JUDGE
Stage 4
SOURCE: CITY OF BUDA/COMMUNITY IMPACT
*CURRENT STAGE
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SAN MARCOS - BUDA - KYLE EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
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