MAY 15, 2019 NURSE FRIENDLY
SNAKE-BITTEN
Nursing profession thriving in Texas, study says.
Rattler baseball knocks Rebels out of the playoffs.
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Hays Free Press © Barton Publications, Inc.
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Vol. 124 • No. 7
HaysFreePress.com
Serving Buda, Kyle and Northeast Hays County, TX
County rejects defense grant for a second time BY KATIE BURRELL Lingering issues on a grant application meant to fund a public defender’s office led Hays County Commissioners May 10 to reject a second attempt at approving the item. The move happened when no other commissioner seconded a motion by Hays County Judge
DEFENDER’S OFFICE, 13
BY MOSES LEOS III Disapproval by Buda city staff of the Economic Development Corporation’s (EDC) decision to nix funding for a proposed water line to Buda Elementary was a factor in a continuing fight between the two bodies. That specific argument escalated in a resolution approved by Buda city leaders April 25 that claimed the EDC “abandoned” its incentive task force (ITF), a group meant to score applications for EDC funding, and instead took “independent action” without city collaboration.
DUELING DEPARTMENTS, 14
LIGHTNING-STRUCK
PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III
A Kyle Fire Department firefighter removes his gear after helping battle a blaze at a Buda area home late last week. No one was hurt in the fire which started due to a lightning strike. Read more about the fire on page 2.
Kinder Morgan files motion to dismiss pipeline lawsuit BY MOSES LEOS III
Roughly a week after multiple parties filed suit against Kinder Morgan’s Permian Highway Pipeline (PHP), the Houston-based firm fought back by filing a motion to dismiss the claims, according to a press release. The filing, submitted May 7, asked the judge in charge of the case for a summary judgement based on “ample reasons” for dismissal, according to Kinder
“The lawsuit is a prime example of why eminent domain exists – to allow important infrastructure projects that provide significant public benefits. Halting natural gas pipeline projects in the state would undercut the Texas economy and widespread community benefits.”
Morgan officials. It is unknown at this time if a decision on the motion has been made. According to the release, the plaintiffs, which include Hays County and the city of
Kyle, assert “no wrongdoing” on the part of Kinder Morgan. “In addition, they are demanding relief under a statute that does not create a right of action against a private party
residents’ complaints of strong odors coming from a composting business located on Old Black Colony Road. The business, which was not identified at the May 7 meeting, is located in Hays County’s jurisdiction, Buda city staff said.
After months of research and discussion, Kyle city leaders May 7 finalized a plan that could solve public transportation woes in town. By a 6-0 vote, the Kyle City Council approved the creation of a possible city-subsidized ridesharing program with Lyft, a global ridesharing company. Officials anticipate city staff analyzing and researching a Kyle-centric plan that could be further crafted by city council members. City leaders anticipate including the program in the Fiscal Year 2020-21 budget discussion. Kyle’s plan could mirror a pilot program recently enacted in Georgetown. Kyle Chief of Staff Jerry Hendrix said Georgetown spends
ODOR ORDINANCE, 2
RIDE SHARING, 14
like PHP,” according to the release. Kinder Morgan officials also said the lawsuit “ignores the fact” that the PHP’s eminent do-
KINDER MORGAN, 10
Does Buda odor ordinance really pass the smell test? BY MOSES LEOS III
deeming “offensive odors” beyond the Offensive odor comboundaries of a propplaints against a nearby erty that cause material composting business distress, discomfort led Buda city leaders or injury a nuisance, Tuesday to expand an whether within the city’s ordinance that labels limits or 5,000 feet bethe smelly situation a yond it. Council member nuisance. Evan Ture cast the lone By a 6-1 vote, the Buda dissenting vote. City Council approved But Peter Black, chief
POLLUTED?
Wedding venue accused of polluting creek.
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operating officer of GrubTubs, the business at the center of the controversy, said he was “surprised” by the ordinance as no city officials approached them about the smell issues or neighbor complaints prior to taking action. The ordinance originated because of
News……………… 2, 14 Opinion………………… 3 Sports…………………… 4 Education……………… 5 Community………… 6-8
Kyle approves plan to subsidize ride sharing program BY KATIE BURRELL
–Kinder Morgan press release
INDEX
Water line application illuminates dysfunction between Buda entities
Business……………… 9 Service Directory…… 11 Public Notices……… 12 Classifieds…………… 12
NEWS
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Hays Free Press The Hays Free Press (USPS 361-430) published weekly by Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. Periodicals postage paid at Buda, TX 78610 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. ISSN#1087-9323
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HISTORY
Founded April 10, 1903, by Thomas Fletcher Harwell as The Kyle News, with offices on the corner of Burleson and Miller streets in the town’s oldest remaining building. It merged into The Hays County Citizen in 1956. The paper consolidated with The Free Press in October, 1978. During its more than 100-year history the newspaper has maintained offices at more than a dozen locations in Kyle and Buda.
Buda home damaged after lightning strike, fire BY MOSES LEOS III
were called, as were the homeowners, who were No people or animals not in the residence when were hurt Wednesday after the lightning bolt struck. lightning struck a Buda While the home suffered area home, leading to a significant damage, the blaze that significantly homeowners were able to damaged the structure. get their family pet out of The incident hapthe house uninjured. pened around 2 p.m. last “One ray of sunshine week in the 1400 block out of a disaster,” Gagnon of Coldstone Hollow in said. the Whispering Hollow Meanwhile, no one was Subdivision. Helping to hurt after lightning struck extinguish the blaze were the roof of a building the Buda and Kyle fire at the Carrington Oaks departments. Apartment complex on Gary Gagnon, a WhisCabela’s Drive. Buda and pering Hollow resident, Manchaca fire officials said he and his family responded to the complex were about to enter their just as the blaze in Whishome when lighting pering Hollow had been struck the house directly mostly extinguished. across the street from Emilio, an employee them. at the complex, said he “Just like that, ‘boom.’ heard the storm pass It scared everyone on the through the area when he street,” Gagnon said. started seeing and smellJohn Lockyer, who lives ing smoke in the area. a few houses down from That discovery led the impacted residence, Emilio and other workers said he heard the thunder at Carrington Oaks to call and saw the strike on a emergency officials, while weather radar app he had also alertting residents in opened. the structure to exit. Several minutes later, Priscilla Garcia, one of Lockyer said his wife the residents that temporeceived a call from a rarily evacuated the buildneighbor who saw smoke ing, said she was getting billowing from the home. ready for work when she “It was all very scary heard loud banging on her and it could have hapdoor. pened to us,” Lockyer said. “I saw it was one of the Emergency officials building officials and he
PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III
Firefighters inspect the attic of a house damaged in a blaze in Buda’s Whispering Hollow subdivision last week.
started yelling that we needed to get out of the building really fast,” Garcia said. “I didn’t hesitate and grabbed my phone and keys and ran out.” Garcia said she saw and smelled the smoke from the lightning strike as she was sprinting down the stairs. Despite the scare, the building only suffered minor damage. “No one was hurt and it wasn’t serious,” Emilio said. “We are okay.”
Odor Ordinance: Passing the smell test? Continued from pg. 1
Steve Hammond, a Whispering Hollow resident, said the stench that comes from the business “makes enjoying the outdoors next to impossible.” Hammond said the odor smells like “decomposing flesh and rotting food.” Whispering Hollow resident Matt DeBow supported the ordinance and worried about the “airborne toxicity” of the area near the business and how it could impact people’s health. DeBow said he paid $250,000 for his home and he “can’t go outside” due to the smell.” Council member Ray Bryant, who lives near the business, said he used the process of elimination to discover “what is that smell” and where it was coming from, which is a question residents have posted on social media sites. But Ture felt the city could create more issues with the ordinance rather than solving the specific problem. While Ture said the smell is “repugnant” and understood residents’ complaints, he also felt the ordinance wasn’t the way to address the odor problem and could open a “can of worms.” Ture said he opted for a second reading of the ordinance in order to try and alleviate the smell issue with the business. City leaders instead voted 6-1 to pass the res-
Those issues came up after GrubTubs complied with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) roughly a month ago to move compost piles that were set up near the business’ property line. Black said GrubTubs attempted to mediate smell complaints from neighbors. GrubTubs, which moved into the Buda area in 2018, collects food waste from restaurants in the Austin area and turns it into compost. The compost is expected to be fed to worms, which are then sold as feed to area farms. Hicks said GrubTub owners understood the business was outside of the city limits and that the property is zoned as a PHOTO BY PETER BLACK working farm. Black said all items brought in from GrubTubs collects food waste from restaurants in the Austin area and turns it into compost. restaurants are placed in The compost is expected to be fed to worms, which are then sold as feed to area farms. “hygienically sealed” tubs and that the company olution on a first and final impacted by the new when they first heard of follows “all rules for comreading with Ture voting ordinance. the ordinance’s passage posting materials” per the against it. Council member Lee May 8, adding it “alTCEQ. No other items, By taking a “shotgun Urbanovsky said most of most reads to me like an such as animal carcasses, approach” to the issue, Buda’s ordinances stem anti-composting ordiare composted at the site. Ture worried the ordifrom a single “problem nance.” “We know we are outnance could turn resithat was identified,” Black said GrubTub side of the city limits and dents against those who and that the rules would officials had “no inkling” we’re doing our best to be might be composting reprevent odor issues anythe ordinance was on the good neighbors and opsponsibly. The ordinance, where in the city. Haehn docket and that no one erate with the rules and as written, looked a “little advocated for the county from the Whispering Hol- regulations out there,” rough” for Buda and its to address the issue. low Homeowners Associ- Hicks said. Outdoor Capital of Texas “This is not targeting ation (HOA) or the Buda How the new rules moniker, Ture said. anyone. This is trying to City Council had formally could impact their busiWhile Mayor George fix a problem,” Haehn contacted them. ness remains to be seen, Haehn said he had said. However, several neigh- Black said. similar concerns, he also But Stephanie Hicks, a bors recently reached out “We are still trying to felt smaller composting partner with GrubTubs, to GrubTubs regarding figure out what it means efforts would not be said they were “shocked” smell issues, Black said. for us,” Hicks said.
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Opinion
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“It’s just a meet and greet for anyone to come and talk freely and ask questions. We can’t do citizen comments where you’re not allowed to talk back too.” –Daphne Tenorio, Kyle council member. Story, pg. 8
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Lack of communication is the culprit Guest Column
by Lon Shell, Hays Co. Pct. 3 Commissioner
P
ublic safety and the criminal justice system account for the majority of your tax dollars spent by Hays County. These responsibilities require the collaboration of multiple stakeholders, jurisdictions, county functions and elected offices, in order to be effective and efficient. There is always room for improvement and now more than ever our system needs cooperation and commitment from all of those involved. Last week the Commissioners Court discussed a grant application to the Texas Indigent Defense Commission (TIDC) for the establishment of a specialized public defender’s office. The proposed grant was first brought to the Commissioners Court by our county judge on May 7. It required court approval for a May 10 deadline. This was the first time this issue had been discussed in court and many of us were uncertain of what tangible solutions the proposal would provide. We were given less than a week to decide. Currently, Hays County tax payers provide over $1.5 million towards indigent defense. The majority of these funds compensate court appointed attorneys. I spent most of the days surrounding this discussion speaking with some of these attorneys as well as judges and citizens in an effort to better understand our challenges in Hays County. I also researched Travis County’s recent efforts to agree upon a grant request to the TIDC. They created a stakeholders committee and spent months, if not years, debating the best path forward. Just last week they reached agreement with a majority of their judges. During our discussions, only one elected judge out of the fourteen that currently serve Hays County stated a willingness to support the grant application. Of the judges that I have personally spoken to, all agreed improvements to our system are needed. However, they expressed concern over the lack of communication on the grant proposal and believed there are more effective strategies that would better address our challenges. From my conversations with attorneys that have in the past provided or currently provide indigent defense, I heard a broad range of opinions. Some thought a public defender’s office could work if structured properly. Others thought enhancements to our current court appointment system would work better, and most believed enhancements to pre-trial services should be the first step. In my opinion, without a commitment and a consensus from our judges and attorneys, any change has little chance for success. Unfortunately, the issue of this grant application has been seen as partisan by some. I cannot disagree more with this perception. Improvements to our Criminal Justice system are supported by all, whether regarding indigent defense, mental health, efficient and effective courts, or expenses related to jail operation. This is not a time to make partisan claims. This is an opportunity to participate in a constructive process that will benefit all Hays County residents. Later this month the Hays County Criminal Justice Coordinating Commission will meet. This commission is made up of representatives of our courts, attorneys, law enforcement and others from our community. These representatives have been selected by their peers and colleagues. Their participation will provide the much needed opportunity to work collectively towards lasting improvements. In the fastest growing region of our country, we must work hard to maintain our quality of life. Just as our exceptional growth makes transportation planning and the protection of our natural resources more important than ever, it also requires us to collectively work together to preserve our high level of public safety and provide equal and effective justice for all. I will continue to work hard for you and what is best for all Hays County residents.
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New SH 45 SW was a joint effort
T
hank local citizens for “preserving the environment we all share” for new SH 45 SW The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA), an agency that funds and builds roads in central Texas, has been advertising the building of SH 45SW Toll Road and their role in “preserving the environment we all share,” as part of the project. CTRMA should give most of the credit for the focus on environmental stewardship to local citizens and groups like Save Barton Creek Association, Sierra Club and Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (BSEACD). Originally, state transportation officials with the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) planned a 3.7-mile freeway as part of an “outer loop.” It included frontage roads with multiple access points over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone with little strategy to remove and monitor roadway pollution. These plans had
standards for water pollution removal. Best Management Practices for water quality ponds and hazard material by Jim Camp, traps were seen as a good former BSEACD start. board president The Consent Decree agreement stipulated that if MOPAC going south across TXDOT sought federal fundpristine Hill Country land in ing on the outer loop SegHays County. Segment 3 of ment 3 over the aquifer, then the “outer loop” was planned it must do a FES. The project to connect ¼ mile short of languished over the years not IH-35 South. Why would it only from public opposition, do that? but mostly because a lack The obvious reason was of funding. When toll roads that the state didn’t want it gained some state-wide supto be a designated federal port, CTRMA was created. project that would require Initially there was no guara stricter Federal Environantee that CTRMA would mental Impact Study (FES). honor the consent decree. TXDOT wanted to control Many people in the Austin the outcome of the study and area spoke against this projdid its own inadequate envi- ect as planned. ronmental review. Years had passed and After citizen and public in- we had better geoscience terest backlash, BSEACD and knowledge of the Edwars TXDOT reached an agreeAquifer and Barton Springs. ment in U.S. federal court For example, top agency for a parkway design with no and university geoscientist frontage roads, limited acusing dye-tracing technolcess, best roadway construc- ogy, could now tell us that a tion standards, protection of hydrocarbon spill on SH 45 creeks and caves, and higher SW near Bear Creek could
Guest Column
pollute local groundwater wells immediately and that contamination could reach Barton Springs in days. We now understood how, when and where the recharged water travels in the aquifer. In addition, more geological assessment identified dozens of recharge features like Flintridge Cave. CTRMA did the politically expedient thing to get 45SW Toll Road built. But it was the “locals” who worked tirelessly for years to get officials to do the right thing. The source for our drinking water and that of Barton Springs deserved nothing less. When you drive on this new segment of SH45 SW, admire a part of the sensitive, scenic Texas Hill Country and remember that even local citizens can make a big, positive impact. Even if it takes years to do so. Jim Camp is a former board member and president of the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District.
A mysterious coverup that would make Nixon blush
D
onald Trump Jr. is a big boy, purportedly, and is hardly shy around a microphone. So why not slide that chronically protruded chest toward a mike before the Senate Intelligence Committee? Republicans are throwing a toddler tantrum, all tears and slobber, at the thought. Why? Let the man talk. So many “whys” about what our president, his kin and his enablers have been doing: If the Mueller Report “totally and completely exonerates” Donald Sr., why would Trump not want to cooperate with Congress in every way to ease everyone’s minds? If Robert Mueller found “no collusion, no obstruction,” why would Trump seek to prevent him from testifying before Congress? So, too, with former White House counsel Don McGahn. What more does McGahn know that Donald Trump doesn’t want you and me to know? The report says Trump leaned on McGahn to dismiss Mueller. McGahn refused. Then, McGahn says, Trump asked him to lie about that request. Maybe that’s because with Mueller on his case, as the latter reports, Trump said, “This is the end of my presidency.” How so, Mr. President? No
pretext for Russians at Trump headquarters pre-election). YoungIt means intimidating witnesses, something Trump did at-Large in tweet after tweet as former by John Young enablers turned state’s evidence. These things should tell us collusion, no obstruction, that Trump and his campaign you say. What then had you broke the law in their dealworried? ings with the Russians and Why concoct a lie about have engaged in a coverup the reason for the infamous that would make Richard Trump Tower meeting with a Nixon blush. Russian contingent? What continues in his Why ask FBI director resisting congressional scruJames Comey to pull back tiny – obvious and ongoing from probing National Secu- obstruction – should make rity Adviser Mike Flynn for every citizen demand the his dealings with Russia? truth. Why concoct another lie A letter signed by more about the pretext for firing than 800 federal prosecutors Comey (later admitting it was asserts that Trump has done about stopping the Russia indictable things to thwart investigation and nothing investigations of all stripes. more)? Some assert that a bunch What don’t you want of Democrats and liberMueller, and Comey, and now als signed that letter. That Congress and well, everyone, doesn’t stand up to scrutito know? ny. But you decide. Among Prosecutors use a term them, Jeffrey Harris, a former called “consciousness of assistant to former New York guilt.” Look it up. Basically it prosecutor Rudy Giuliani, describes just about everysays, “I have absolutely no thing Donald Trump has said doubt that the prosecutor and done regarding Russia. Rudy Giuliani would have It means lying repeatedindicted someone who comly even when the lies are mitted the acts that are put self-evident. (“No commuout on the Mueller report in a nication” with Russia while heartbeat.” Jared Kushner was discussing The same goes for Paul setting up a back channel for Rosenzweig, who was on such a thing.) the team of Special CounIt means constructing false sel Ken Starr in making the alibis (um, adoption as a case against Bill Clinton.
Rosenzweig said that Trump’s attempt to bully McGahn unto itself is indictable and impeachable. I can’t imagine any American believing that if Trump were not president he would not be facing criminal indictment. Mueller’s report lists 10 possible acts of obstruction. Add to that now an 11th: contempt of Congress. Trump appears dedicated to forcing the hand of House investigators by using their only remedy to get the truth – an impeachment trial. The fact is that this should have happened even before the Mueller report was released. It should have happened the moment former Trump fixer Michael Cohen was convicted of crimes done at Trump’s bidding. If not then, it should have begun after Cohen testified in Congress on matters which legal observers said implicated Trump in at least 14 crimes, ranging from insurance fraud and tax fraud to threats and intimidation. There is no “if” as to whether Trump obstructed justice. The only question is “why” he lied so consistently about all things Russia. We should not be left to guess. Longtime Texas newspaperman John Young now lives in Colorado. jyoungcolumn@gmail.com
LETTER TO THE EDITOR WE NEED RESPONSIBLE GUARDIANSHIP Guest columnist Cristen Williams is right about one thing: “Feral” cats are just like the cats who share our homes. That’s exactly why they do not deserve to be dumped on the streets to fend for themselves. Cats who are left outdoors face daily battles against the elements, parasites, infections, deadly contagious diseases, speeding cars, predators on two legs and four, and more. Many die a decade sooner than they would if they had lived indoors—and
Hays Free Press
their deaths are often violent and painful. Implementing shelter policies that promote abandonment is no solution to the issue of animal homelessness. Just one year after San Antonio’s shelter began so-called “no-kill” policies, the bodies of 16,000 dogs and 12,000 cats who were killed by cars had to be scraped off the city’s streets. An animal control officer aptly described their inhumane deaths as “euthanasia by proxy.” Conditions for animals inside facilities that pass such policies are often cruel,
Barton Publications, Inc. News tips: news@haysfreepress.com Opinions: csb@haysfreepress.com
Publisher Cyndy Slovak-Barton
Reporters Exsar Arguello and Katie Burrell
News and Sports Editor Moses Leos III
Columnists Bartee Haile, Chris Winslow, Pauline Tom, Clint Younts
too. Recently, volunteers at Austin’s city shelter urged city leaders not to require the shelter to achieve a 95% “live release” rate because, “[c]onditions at the shelter, for both humans and animals, continued to deteriorate,” with animals reportedly caged for months or years, denied exercise, and hastily adopted for little or no fee. Dumping domestic animals outdoors and implementing other policies to keep animals out of shelters might make statistics look appealing, but it does so at animals’ expense. It’s also a
violation of Texas’ penal code, which forbids abandoning an animal in one’s custody. Animals aren’t numbers, they’re individuals who rely on us for protection. The humane way to prevent animal homelessness is by requiring responsible guardianship, including spaying and neutering, and helping residents overcome obstacles like lack of transportation and funding to get their companions sterilized. Teresa Chagrin People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 www.haysfreepress.com 512-268-7862
Proofreaders Jane Kirkham Marketing Director Tracy Mack Marketing Specialists James Darby and Teresa R. Starr
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Page 4
Sports
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
SNAKE-BITTEN
Rattlers knock Rebs out of playoffs BY SHANE SCHOLWINSKI SAN ANTONIO – Hays High’s 2019 campaign came to a close Friday after the Rebels were swept in two games by the stateranked San Antonio Reagan Rattlers in a best-of-3 area round series. “Two separate ball games, but today’s story was way different from yesterday’s story,” said Hays head coach James Howard after the Game 2 loss. “Today the problem was just getting guys on base and to not come through with a clutch hit.” After an exhilarating series win over NB Canyon in the Bi-District round last weekend, the Rebels lost their mojo and couldn’t carry over momentum against Reagan, currently ranked No. 2 in Class 6A. Struggles on the mound in Game 1 hurt the Rebels in the 13-3 loss, then the tables turned and struggles at the plate sent the team home with a 4-0 loss in Game 2. While pitching depth helped Hays defeat Canyon, the pitching woes came all at once in Game 1 as they walked 14 Rattler batters. After only being down 5-3 heading into the fifth inning, the wheels came off the bus for the Rebels when Reagan scored eight runs in the final two frames of the game. “Pretty cut and dry and simple, you’ve got to throw strikes,” Howard said. “We didn’t do that. To win high school baseball games you cannot give them stuff, especially the number two
PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III
Hays Rebel Richard Herrera fields a ground ball during the team’s district game against Westlake in late April .
Hays High second baseman Kari Louk snags a throw as New Braunfels Canyon baserunner dives to avoid a tage in Game 2 of the best-of-3 series.
Canyon Cougarettes oust Rebel softball in three games
PHOTO BY MOS ES LEOS III
ranked team in state and we gave them too many freebies.” In Game 2, Hays was unable to find a way to put runs on the scoreboard despite out-hitting Reagan 9-4 and having two separate bases-loaded opportunities. Hays ended up leaving 10 runners on base during the game as a team and didn’t come up with the clutch hits the Rattlers seemed to find. “We left too many guys on base,” Howard said. “We had nine hits. They (Reagan) did a really good job of bowing their neck and finishing when we had guys in scoring position. We just couldn’t come through with that clutch hit that we needed.” Hays senior Seth Stephenson went 2-for-4 hitting in Game 2 with two hit balls that reached the warning track in left field. The first ball hit the wall and gave Stephenson a stand-up double, while the other was tracked down by the Rattler left fielder. Rebel Taylor Monroe also had a solid hitting performance, going 3-for-3 with three singles in Game 2. As far as pitching, Hays recouped with senior Jere-
BY MOSES LEOS III
my Copeland on the mound as he kept the Rebels in the game while giving up four runs on four hits, with six walks and six strikeouts. Copeland held the Rattlers to two runs scored until the final inning of game when he had already reached more than 100 pitches. “He (Copeland) gave us every chance to win that ball game, and that’s all you can ask from him,” Howard said. “Gutsy performance from a senior. He pitched with a lot of heart out there. A lot of determination.” Hays season ends with a 26-10 record and 18 seniors departing from the program. Howard said the heart and fight shown by the upperclassmen was a big factor for the successful season. “Just that I’m proud of them,” Howard said. “They accomplished way more than any other team in the last five years, to get 26 wins in a season is a great accomplishment. It’s just a great group of seniors. I’m going to definitely miss them. The juniors and sophomores coming up have big shoes to fill.”
WIMBERLEY – When the Hays Rebel softball team needed to exact a counter-punch Saturday, New Braunfels Canyon Cougarette pitcher Aliyah Pritchett prevented it from doing so. The inability to generate offense at critical junctures ultimately ended Hays’ 2019 campaign in a 7-2 Game 3 loss to Canyon, closing a grueling best-of-3 series between two programs ranked in the top 10 of the 6A state poll. Despite the finish, Hays head coach Lisa Cone extolled her team and her senior class in finishing as regional semifinalists for the first time since 2016. “We are always trying to stay a step ahead of our opponents and they did that. They pushed and they were great leaders,” Cone said. “Thirty wins, that’s something to be proud of. I told them to remember the 30 wins.” Part of the struggle was deciphering Pritchett who limited Hays to a combined four runs on eight hits in Games 1 and 3 of the series. Rebel senior Brianna Rodriguez
said their approach was to attack the first pitch as often as possible, as it usually was the best pitch they were going to see. Trying to adjust to Pritchett, whose pitches were high in velocity, was easier said than done. Senior Kaylin Davis said seeing Pritchett in the first game of the series provided some insight when they squared off against her in the final game. Hays also fought to fix fielding woes experienced in the opening game of the series. Multiple Rebel throwing errors allowed Canyon to have a four-run third frame en route to a 7-1 Game 1 victory. However, Cone said the
Rebel defense coalesced and played well “despite the conditions they were in.” Both Hays and Canyon had to deal with an artificial turf surface that was wet for most of the series. Stressing the fundamentals and “keeping the ball in front” were ways Hays played solid defense for most of the series, Cone said. “We just fought. We did everything we could. We had to be behind Max (Valdez) and Katie (Noble). It was just a fight and we knew what we had to do,” Rodriguez said. With their backs against the wall, Hays flipped the script in Game 2 Friday when the
REBEL SOFTBALL, 8
CITY OF MOUNTAIN CITY, TEXAS • NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING
A public hearing will be held on the following ordinance by the Mountain City, Texas City Council at a meeting on June 10, 2019. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. and will take place at City Hall, 101 Mountain City Dr, Mountain City, Texas. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MOUNTAIN CITY, TEXAS, TO ESTABLISH A MUNICIPAL DRAINAGE UTILITY SYSTEM; PROVIDING FOR DRAINAGE SERVICE, BILLING, EXEMPTIONS, DRAINAGE CHARGES AND APPEALS; PROVIDING A REPEALING CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE, PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A CRIMINAL PENALTY OF A FINE NOT TO EXCEED THE SUM OF TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS ($2,000.00); AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Mountain City, Texas, has investigated and determined that it would be advantageous and beneficial to the citizens of the City to promote the public health, safety and welfare of the citizens to adopt a Municipal Drainage Utility System; and WHEREAS, the City Council further investigated and determined that it would be in the best interest of the citizens to adopt the Municipal Drainage Utility Systems Act as set forth in Chapter 552, Subchapter C, Texas Local Government Code, as amended ("Act") ; and WHEREAS, the City Council hereby adopts the Act and incorporates it herein in its entirety for all purposes; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the drainage of the City is a public utility within the meaning of the Act; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the City will establish a schedule of drainage charges against all real property in the proposed service area(s) which included the entire City subject to charges under this Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the City will provide drainage for all real property in the proposed service area(s) on payment of drainage charges, except real property exempted under the Act or pursuant to this Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that the City will offer drainage service on nondiscriminatory, reasonable and equitable terms; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MOUNTAIN CITY, TEXAS: SECTION 1. That the facts and recitations contained in the preamble of this Ordinance are hereby found and declared to be true and correct. SECTION 2. That the City of Mountain City, Texas, hereby establishes a Municipal Drainage Utility System, as follows:
Municipal Drainage Utility System
Sec. 2-1. Municipal Drainage Utility System Established. The Municipal Drainage Utility Systems Act, Chapter 552, Subchapter C, Texas Local Government Code, as amended (the "Act") , is hereby adopted and shall be fully implemented as provided by the Act and by the City Council; and the drainage of the City is hereby found to be a public utility within the meaning of the Act. Sec. 2-2. Drainage Service Provided. The City will provide storm water drainage for all real property within its boundaries upon payment of the determined drainage charges, as defined in the Act, and excluding property exempt under the Act and certain exempted real property by the City, and that the fees, assessments, and charges will be based on nondiscriminatory, reasonable and equitable terms. The drainage charges established herein shall be for all non-exempt benefitted property as defined in the Act within the City drainage system. Sec. 2-3. Billing for Drainage Service. The City is hereby authorized to bill the drainage charges incurred as a result of the adoption of the Act and through the establishment of the municipal drainage utility system. The drainage charge shall be separately identified from other public utility billings. Revenues generated through the drainage charges authorized herein shall be classified as committed resources according to the City Financial Policies, as amended. Drainage charges may only be expended for the costs of service as defined by the Act. Sec. 2-4. Authority to Levy Drainage Charges. The City may levy a schedule of drainage charges upon satisfaction of the procedural requirements provided in the Act and this Article. Prior to the levy of any drainage charges, the City Council shall conduct a public hearing on the drainage charges pursuant to the Act. Prior to adoption of this Article the City Council found and determined: that the City will establish a schedule of drainage charges against all real property in the proposed area which includes the entire City subject to the charges under the Act; the City will provide drainage for all real property in the proposed service area on payment of the drainage charges, except real property exempt under the Act; and the City will offer drainage service on nondiscriminatory, reasonable, and equitable terms. Sec. 2-5. Exemptions Authorized. The City is authorized to exempt certain property, entities or persons from all ordinances, resolutions, and rules which the City may adopt from time to time in connection with the adoption of the Act and the establishment of its municipal drainage utility system. Any exemptions to the drainage charges established herein other than the exemptions required by the Act shall be set forth in the drainage charge schedule.
Sec. 2-6. Charges. (a) The City Council shall, following the adoption of this Article, establish a drainage charge schedule, by Ordinance of the City Council, from time to time, for charges which shall be collected through the City's bill for public utilities pursuant to the Act and other applicable law. There shall be a drainage charge on each monthly public utility statement for the City drainage system as set forth in the drainage charge schedule. The City Administrator, or designee, is authorized to collect such charges in a manner consistent with the Act and this Article. The drainage charges shall be a separate line item on the public utility statement, and shall be clearly identified as a separate charge. Except, as otherwise provided herein, the billing, charges and collection procedures shall be consistent with City collection procedures for the water services. (b) The drainage charges established pursuant to this Article will apply to the accounts maintained by the City for public utility services. (c) All billing: credits, exemptions and other procedures relating to drainage charges established pursuant to this Article shall be subject to the provisions of the Act and other applicable law. (d) A deposit for the drainage services as a precondition to accepting surface flow from benefited property into the City drainage utility system shall not be required. All real property of the City will be provided with drainage utility system service on timely payment of drainage charges established herein. Sec. 2-7. Appeals. (a) Billing and payment disputes for administrative issues relating to the drainage charges shall be subject to appeals procedures used by the City for other public utility billing disputes. A person or entity that owns or occupies a benefitted property may appeal the drainage charges established herein pursuant to this procedure set forth in this section. (b) Appeals for the following reasons shall be directed to the City Administrator for evaluation and determination. An appeal shall be in writing and submitted to the City Administrator within thirty (30) days after the public utility billing statement containing the matter to be disputed. During all periods of appeal the person or entity who owns or occupies the benefitted property and/or the account holder shall be responsible for payment of the charges in full: (1) exempt property has been assessed a drainage charge; (2) drainage charge for an individual property is assessed on more than one public utility account; or (3) drainage charge is assessed to individual property outside the City's jurisdictional area. (c) The City Administrator, or designee shall render a written decision on such appeals within thirty (30) days after receiving a timely written notice of appeal from the person or entity who owns or occupies the benefitted property and/ or the account holder. The City Administrator, or designee shall deliver a copy of the appeal decision to the person or entity who owns or occupies the benefitted property and/or the
account holder by US mail to the address of the landowner/account holder according to the most recent records in the possession of the City. (d) Appeals for claims that the drainage charge for an individual property is based on an incorrect determination of the property's contribution to the drainage utility system, as established in the City drainage charge schedule shall be directed to the City Administrator, or designee for evaluation and determination. An appeal pursuant to this section 23-311 (d) shall be in writing and submitted to the City Administrator, or designee within thirty (30) days after the public utility billing statement containing the matter to be disputed. During all periods of appeal the person or entity who owns or occupies the benefitted property and/or the account holder shall be responsible for payment of the charges in full. Sec. 2-8. Credits. (a) A property owner may petition to the City to reduce the drainage charge fee for an individual property to account for on-site storm water management controls that reduce the property's impact to the drainage utility system. (b) The petition will be evaluated and the fee adjustment decision determined by the Director of Engineering. The Director of Engineering's evaluation and determination shall be based on nondiscriminatory, reasonable, and equitable terms and shall be based solely on storm waterrelated factors. Sec. 2-9. Penalties; Enforcement. Failure to pay the drainage charges promptly when due shall subject such user to discontinuance of any public utility services provided by the City, in accordance with the procedures adopted by the city for discontinuance of any City public utility service including water and/or sewer service and other applicable laws." Section 3. Cumulative and savings. This Ordinance shall be cumulative of all provisions of ordinances of the City of Mountain City, Texas, except where the provisions of the ordinance are in direct conflict with the provisions of such ordinances, in which event the conflicting provisions of such ordinances are hereby repealed. Any and all previous versions of this Ordinance to the extent that they are in conflict herewith are repealed. Section 4. Severability. The provisions of this Ordinance are declared to be severable. If any section, sentence, clause, or phrase of the Ordinance shall for any reason be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decisions shall not affect the validity of the remaining sections, sentences, clauses, and phrases of this Ordinance, but they shall remain in effect; it being the legislative intent that this Ordinance shall remain in effect notwithstanding the validity of any part. Section 5. Effective date. This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its passage, approval and publication as provided by law.
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Page 5
Education
Hays Current Issues & Events team earns second place at state competition The Hays High Current Issues and Events team took second place overall at the UIL State Academics Tournament. The Current Issues and Events test is a multiple choice exam based on news taking place in Texas, the United States and the world during the current school year. Students also complete a short essay which factors into their overall score. The team score is made up of the cumulative scores of the top three members of the team; the fourth member’s score is used to break ties between teams. The Hays team, comprised of senior Dylan Cousins, junior Holden Bukowsky and sophomores Victor Falcon
PHOTOS BY JIM CULLEN
Buda Elementary cuts ribbon on new campus
Former Buda Elementary School principal Nolan Kunkel addresses attendants at the ribbon-cutting for the new elementary campus on Old San Antonio Road Tuesday.
PHOTO BY GINA LOZANO Hays High Current Issues & Events team is made up of (l-r) Drew Cook, Victor Falcon, Dylan Cousins and Holden Bukowsky.
and Drew Cook, placed second overall as a team, earning them a team plaque and qualifying
them to apply for college scholarships through the Texas Interscholastic League Foundation.
Dylan Cousins also placed fourth as an individual.
PHOTO BY AMY ECKHARDT
Hays High senior walk
Late last week, a handful of Hays High seniors participated in the annual “senior walk” at several area elementary campuses. The event allows soon-to-be graduating seniors to parade through elementary campuses to be seen by future graduates. Lehman High will conduct its senior walk later this month. PHOTO BY JIM CULLEN
Barton M.S. names latest Genius Educator STAFF REPORT
Earlier this month, Barton Middle School educator Yvonne Schneider received the Hays CISD Genius Educator award. According to
Hays CISD officials, Schneider was named Genius Educator based on her many successes with innovative practices and creative design. Her work has helped hundreds of students and all
campus teachers. Schneider is an expert in all things Google, and has used her expertise in creating hyperdocs which allow students to have access to vetted resources and innovative
ways to demonstrate their understanding. Students have the opportunity to enjoy flexible learning at their own pace and often within the context of their own interests.
Now delivering to Buda!
Hays CISD PEP coordinator claims award STAFF REPORT The Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy announced that Katie Campbell, Hays CISD’s Parenting Education Program (PEP) coordinator, is the 2019 David C. Wiley Award winner, according to a release. Since joining Hays CISD 13 years ago, Campbell expanded the PEP Program to serve pregnant and parenting students across three campuses and has created a new service delivery model. The new model includes a parenting class for high school credit, child care and case management in collaboration with Early Head Start, and additional community partnerships to provide counseling services and other resources to students. Campbell has shifted the focus and culture of the program from “at-risk” to “positive youth development.” In addition, Campbell has developed and maintained partnerships with Texas State University and its Strengthening Relationships/Strengthening Families Program, which provides additional resources and support to the PEP program. This partnership provides opportunities for undergrad and graduate student interns to serve as mentors and case managers, giving them real-life experience working with children
who have made contributions to the field of teen pregnancy prevention in Texas through service, leadership, advocacy, or research. The Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy is a statewide nonpartisan organization established in 2009 that aims to reduce teen pregnancy through research, advocacy, collaboration, and training.
NOW OPEN!
340 Old San Antonio Rd, Suite C Buda, TX 78610
(512) 856-5150
BUFFET HOURS:
11-2 every day, 5-8 Sunday and Wednesday
PHOTO BY AMY ECKHARDT From left to right are Dr. David Wiley, Founding board member, Texas Campaign and retired professor of health education, Texas State University; Katie Campbell; and Molly Clayton, Executive Director, Texas Campaign.
Since joining Hays CISD 13 years ago, coordinator Katie Campbell expanded the PEP Program to serve pregnant and parenting students across three campuses and has created a new service delivery model. and families. Campbell holds a permanent seat on the Hays CISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) and was instrumental in bringing a comprehensive sexuality education curriculum to Hays CISD along with training for teachers who would be implementing the curriculum. “The Texas Campaign is thrilled to recognize Katie because of her ongoing work on behalf of young
people in Texas,” said Molly Clayton, executive director of the Texas Campaign. “She is a caring and dedicated professional who has devoted her career to helping teen parents thrive and succeed, and her leadership serves as a platform for others doing this important work. This award, presented at the Texas Campaign’s annual Symposium, recognizes individuals
Rocky is a 5-year-old, neutered male Labrador. This sweetheart is potty trained, knows commands, and walks easily on a leash! He spends lots of time hanging out with staff in our lobby and has never been anything but a perfect gentleman. He gets along well with other dogs, cats, and all people. He will do best in a home in which he is not left alone for long hours. He has lots of love to give.
Spice is a 6-month-old, neutered male, shorthaired orange and white Tabby. Little Spice is everything nice. Want a cat that likes to be picked up, cuddled, played with, or a companion for another cat? Spice is your guy. He melts in your hand when you pet him and he loves to follow you wherever you go. He also loves goofing around with his kitty buddies. Spice really is a perfect pet!
PAWS Shelter of Central Texas
is a non-profit, no-kill shelter operated primarily on donations and adoptions.
500 FM 150 E, Kyle, TX • 512 268-1611 • pawsshelter.org
All animals are fully vaccinated, spay/neutered, microchipped and dewormed.
sponsored by
Town & CounTry VeTerinary HospiTal Committed to your pet’s health since 1978
Bill Selman, DVM • Kayley Goldsmith, DVM • Ben Fox, DVM 6300 FM 1327 (East of I35 and Creedmoor) Austin, TX 78747 Give us a call at 512-385-0486
Page 6
Community
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Nursing profession thriving in Texas, study says BY EXSAR ARGUELLO
acting as a caregiver to would never walk again, those in need. but with some grit and Despite the unpredictBrooks said she knew hard work, he overability that comes with she wanted came those the profession, those who to be a nurse boundaries. make up the staff of nurs- ever since The “He walked es at Seton Medical Center she was in patient back to us to returned to Hays in Kyle dedicate their the 6th grade. lives to improving the Having nurses thank us, and the heath of fellow residents. worked in after rehab, I knew then Among these are Krisurban interthanking ten Brooks and Vanessa city hospitals the nurses and there that Cuellar, nurses at Seton to Level I during his this patient Hays. trauma cenrecovery. Brooks is an Intensive ters, Brooks’ “He walked was a true Care Unit (ICU) nurse nearly back to us testament while Cuellar is a recovery decade-long to thank us, nurse. Although these tenure as a and I knew to what we two nurses fulfill different nurse has then and do. To see roles at the hospital, both given her a there that work tirelessly for the plethora of this patient him walking patients they serve. experience was a true again…it’s Cuellar, a Kyle native, throughout testament started off as a pediatric the field. to what we what keeps recovery nurse in San And do,” Brooks me going. Antonio before moving to throughout said. “To see Austin and eventually to the memohim walking Kyle. ries, there again…it’s –Kristen Brooks, “The variety of recovery was always what keeps nurse at Seton Hays care that I have done has one that me going.” been amazing for me,” stuck with Both Cuellar said. “You’re seeBrooks. Brooks and Cuellar work ing the patients from all When completing her in a profession that’s gathaspects of their care when clinical internship or cap- ering steam in Texas. they are with us, so you stone, Brooks was working A recent study conductbuild a special relationwith a patient who had ed by finance company ship with them.” both of his legs amputated WalletHub ranks Texas Cuellar said the role of in a traumatic motorcycle 13th in the nation for the a nurse is to educate and accident. best places to work as a facilitate care for patients, The patient was told he nurse. The study cites a
T
by Chris Winslow
from their base rather than going madly across the yard. My favorite? Alphonse Karr. It’s 15 to 20 feet tall, and is one of the most cold-hardy of the clumpers. The shoots often appear pink to red in color, while stalks or culms are orange-yellow with a vertical green stripe. Planted on 2 to 4 foot centers, this bamboo will make a satisfyingly dense privacy screen. Plant them individually, and you will find Alphonse Karr makes an attractive specimen plant. When looking for suitable clumping forms of bamboo, pick one that has sufficient tolerance to cold. Many are damaged when temperatures fall below 20 degrees. Other good ones to look for are golden goddess, Buddha’s belly, and giant timber. Golden goddess is a dwarf form, rarely growing taller than 8 feet. Its density makes it an effective screening plant. Buddha’s Belly is a tall clumper with zig-zag culms. Giant timber bamboo
(1=Best; 25=Avg.)
1st
Monthly Avg. Starting Salary for Nurses (Adjusted for Cost of Living)
14th Nurses per Capita 12th Average Annual Salary for Nurses (Adjusted for Cost of Living)
15th Projected Competition by 2026 23rd Avg. Number of Work Hours great work environment, compensation and demand for the job sector as part of its study. “With high starting salaries and the presence of the Nursing Licensure Compact law, the state does a good job employing nurses,” said Jill Gonzalez, an analyst for Wallethub. “There is also
S
In praise of bamboo Ask Chris
The Nursing Market in Texas
still a lot of competition in this profession, and the state is attractive to nursing school grads looking for a place to work.” Gonzalez said Texas ranks the highest in average starting salary for nurses, as well as an abundance of high-quality nursing schools. However, the profession
is faced with some challenges that range from mandatory overtimes and overstaffing. But these are issues that are not prevalent in the Lone Star State. “Despite these issues, nursing is still one of the most lucrative careers, with the lowest unemployment rate in the country,” Gonzalez said. “This is because there is a growing demand for nurses, especially in light of so many baby boomers retiring and in need of care.” Cuellar said she intends to stay in the community she has called home all her life. “I don’t see myself leaving because I love it here,” Cuellar said. “I love the fact that I’ve been here pretty much all my life. Our job is to care for the citizens and it’s evident when you meet the nurses here.”
Possums play possum, right?
Alphonse Karr bamboo makes an attractive specimen plant. When looking for suitable clumping forms of bamboo, pick one that has sufficient tolerance to cold. Many are damaged when temperatures fall below 20 degrees.
oday let us celebrate this amazing grass. A few facts: over a billion people around the world live in bamboo houses; there are 1,500 species; and it can grow 4 feet in a day. Also, people are getting more creative in their uses of it. You can now buy a bicycle with a bamboo frame, flooring, sheets for your bed, and most recently, bamboo frames for your eye glasses. As wonderful as all this is, of all the great screening plants available for our Central Texas area, bamboo is the most misunderstood. Bamboo is on the ‘bad boy’ list of the city of Austin and the Grow Green Guide, where it is listed as an invasive species. If you plant a ‘running’ bamboo as a fast growing screen, expect a chill in relations with your neighbors. They are going to be kept busy year after year combating your invasive running shoots. The solution is simple enough. Plant ‘clumping’ bamboo rather than running bamboo. The clumping ones look beautiful in our landscapes, and you will still have cordial relations with neighbors. Clumping varieties grow slowly in circles, and send out new shoots
PHOTO BY XXXX
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can grow over 30 feet tall and produces giant green culms. To see a healthy specimen, check out the giant timber bamboo at the Four Hands Furniture Warehouse of St. Elmo east of IH-35. Giant Timber should be placed in a somewhat protected location as its winter hardiness is placed at 18 degrees. Care and location for growing of bamboo is important if you want a fast growing screen. Most bamboos thrive in a sunny to partly sun location with plenty of moisture. Our native soils should be enriched with compost at the time of planting. Continued moisture and feeding is essential if you want them to grow at high speed. You can also grow them in containers. Choose one with good drainage and select a premium potting soil mix. I once planted two large golden goddesses in a four foot tall, oblong cattle trough to provide screening and privacy on a back porch. It worked great! You can see plenty of bamboo at Casa de Luz in Austin (1701 Toomey Road, Austin 78704), and at Zilker Park’s Taniguchi Japanese Garden. Happy gardening everyone!
aturday afternoon, KissMe alerted all Mt. City within earshot that a Montage creature was under the big blue tarp in our backyard by Pauline that covers items removed Tom from our back deck when our “Kissing Suite” (master suite) remodel began. The They’ll go find food somepile is just on the other where else.” side of his 2-foot “KissMe From a septic system Fence.” educational brochure I Eventually, picked up bowed low to several years “They the ground, ago, I saved I saw a huge a tidbit on (opossums) possum on garbage eat tons of the far side of disposals: the pile, di“Eliminatticks, snakes, rectly on the ing the use rodents, grass. With a of a garbage big stick, Rondisposal roaches Tom pushed can reduce so they’re the still, stiff the amount possum into of grease definitely our live trap. and solids good to have When we entering the returned septic tank around your several hours and possibly house.” later, that litclogging the erally lifeless drainfield. A –Tammy Kelley, possum had garbage disKeeping it Wild not moved. posal grinds Rescue On Mom’s up kitchen Day, my scraps, older daughter told me suspends them in water, her Saturday story of her and sends the mixture to dog bringing up a baby the septic tank. Once in possum in their Arlington the septic tank, some of backyard. Sure enough, the materials are broken when Murphy dropped down by bacterial action, the possum, it stayed but most of the grindings stiff as a board. After corralling Murphy, they went back to check on the possum that was nowhere to be found. Reading of KissMe’s discovery, a friend alerted me to the FaceBook of Tammy Kelley, Keeping it Wild Rescue (Driftwood). Tammy wrote last week, “They (opossums) eat tons of ticks, snakes, rodents, roaches so they’re definitely good to have around your house ... They have a very short life in the wild only living to be about two or three years old. Possums are great for the environment because they’re basically nature’s garbage disposal ... If you don’t want them around then make sure you’re not leaving out any food outside as a source of food for them.
have to be pumped out of the tank. Using a garbage disposal frequently can significantly increase the accumulation of sludge and scum in your septic tank, resulting in the need for more frequent pumping.” Keep good care of your septic system. When a traditional septic system in Mountain City dies, it must be replaced with an expensive “modern” version. Please recycle. Our garbage service pays $45/ ton to dump household garbage and “only” $30/ ton for recyclables. Many do not recycle. Unless we change, it’s likely our rates will increase when the contract is renegotiated. Phone the number on your garbage can if you need another recycling bin. No charge. Congratulate John Wilson (“Lake Wilson” filled in his front yard with the 3-inches-in-an-hour rain on Wednesday) on his appointment as alderman, filling the seat vacated by Ralph McClendon when he was appointed mayor. Please send tidbits, ptom5678@gmail.com (subject: Tidbit.) Thanks! Love to you, PTom.
NOTICE
TO PATIENTS OF DR. JENIFER KOWALIK
Dr. Jenifer Kowalik announces the closing of the Medical Practice at 1999 Medical Pkwy, Ste A, San Marcos, Tx 78666 effective June 14, 2019. Records requests can be made to DrJKowalik@gmail.com or 512-392-7111.
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Page 7
OBITUARIES GAMBOA
to witness history when Sally Ride became the Buda resident Oscar first American woman Gamboa died peacefully in space, and mourned at home with the NASA family Tuesday, when Space Shuttle May 14, Challenger exploded. 2019. He After retiring from was 81. NASA, Gamboa and Pat Born in moved to Buda to be Mexico, closer to their grandGamboa children, and farther met his away from Florida wife Patrihurricanes. Gamboa was cia on the active for many years at campus of Buda United Methodist the Universidad de Mex- Church, where he served ico in Mexico City. They in the Food Pantry. married in San Antonio Gamboa loved people, on July 8, 1960. Shortly animals and following after, Gamboa enlisted his many interests – arin the United States Air chery, competitive pistol Force where he served and skeet shooting, golf, 20 years, including tours jewelry making and of duty in Alaska and many others. He was a Viet Nam. Gamboa was born entrepreneur, and also stationed for four loved buying and selling years in Germany, where cars, swords, and watchhe and Pat and their es. He gave to many girls, Luisa and Alicia, charities and was always traveled to every country a friend to those in need. within driving distance Above all, Gamboa was a in Gamboa’s white Ford devoted family man. Galaxy. He leaves to cherish Returning stateside, his memory his wife Pat, Gamboa became an daughter Luisa Collins, instructor in the USAF son-in-law Jim Collins, Equal Employment and grandsons James Opportunity Training and Robert Collins of Center at Patrick Air Buda, daughter Alicia Force Base, Florida. Gamboa of Sebastian, After retiring from the Florida, brother Jose Air Force, Gamboa Gamboa, sister Dora worked for the National Richardson of San Diego, Aeronautics and Space California, and many Administration, Cape nieces and nephews. Canaveral, Florida. In lieu of flowers, doGamboa loved his nations may be made to career with NASA, where Buda United Methodist he recruited engineers Church Food Panty. for the agency, traveling to many universities in WOOD the U.S. and Latin AmerJames Ellis Wood, 67, ica. He was particularly passed away on May proud of recruiting 4, 2019, after a couraoutstanding candidates geous battle with cancer. from minority groups James was a multi-genand people with diserational Austinite, born abilities. Gamboa also delighted in Space Shut- Feb. 11, 1952. He spent his childhood chasing tle launches, where he adventure with his five chaperoned astronaut siblings all over town – families and visiting dignitaries. He was there from Travis Heights to
Buda, Texas • 15300 S. IH-35 • 312-1615
Debbie Thames, Agent
251 N. FM 1626, Bldg. 2, Ste. C, Buda, Texas 78610 312-1917
BUDA
DRUG STORE
203 Railroad Street Downtown Buda Pharmacy 312-2111 Fountain 312-2172
Your Hometown McDonald’s
McDonald’s of Buda
15359 IH-35, Ste. B P.O. Box 1364, Buda, TX 78610 512-312-2383 Locally owned and operated by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson
Rosebrock
Veterinary Clinic 2325 FM 967 • 312-0701
Texas Crossword Solution
Lake Travis. He attended several Austin elementary schools and middle schools before graduating from Leander High School in 1970. After graduation, he served for four years in the Navy, including service during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Corry. He was very fond of his years in the Navy, and his love of country never wavered. Wood was an entrepreneur from a very young age. He purchased his first piece of property before graduating from high school. He found his passion for the car business almost 45 years ago and it never left. Cars America was his second home. He loved his employees, customers and friends in the industry. His favorite day of the week was Monday, and he is quoted as saying that he would never retire. Wood loved life. He often laughed at his own jokes before he could finish telling them. He was confident, yet humble. Helping others brought him happiness. He was the “fixer” of the family. He was a mentor and a role model to so many. Ethics came before success. Anyone will tell you that he would always choose a hard right over an easy wrong.
On behalf of our entire staff, please accept our condolences on the passing of your loved one. When you are ready, I would be honored to assist you in creating a monument that will express your love for years to come.
1100 Main Street • Buda, Texas 78610 Office: 512-312-2520 • Fax: 512-295-2034 • santacruzcc.org Rev. David Leibham, Pastor • Rev. Amado Ramos, Assoc. Pastor CONFESSION Saturdays: 4 p.m.-5 p.m.
OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
MASS SCHEDULE: Saturday evening: 5:30 p.m. Sunday 8:30 a.m. (Spanish), 11 a.m. (English) 5 p.m. (English)
AUTO • HOME LIFE •• HEALTH BOAT • HEALTH AUTO • HOME • LIFE ••BOAT 251FM N.1626 FM #2C 1626 #2C TX • Buda, 251 N. • Buda, 78610 TX 78610 Office: (512) (512) 312-1917 • Fax: 312-0688 Office: 312-1917 • Fax: 312-0688 Email: dvthames@austin.rr.com Email: dvthames@austin.rr.com Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm
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Sincerely, Brenda Keller Independent Representative
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Email or call to schedule your appointment.
Come worship with us ASSEMBLIES OF GOD
CHURCH OF CHRIST
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda
Buda-Kyle Church of Christ 3.5 miles south of Buda on FM 2770
Monte del Olivar Christian Center 2400 FM 150 E., Kyle
BAPTIST First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda First Baptist Church-Kyle 300 W. Center St., Kyle Hays Hills Baptist Church 1401 FM 1626, Buda Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626
Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda EPISCOPAL St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church 725 RR 967, Buda St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church RR 3237 (Wimberley Rd.), Kyle St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 11819 IH-35 South JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses FM 2770, Kyle Jehovah’s Witnesses South 10802 Manchaca Rd., Manchaca LUTHERAN
The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda Completed & Perfected Faith Church Tobias Elementary Cafeteria, FM 150, Kyle Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda New Covenant Community Church 1019 Main Street, Buda (in Dance Unlimited) Vertical Chapel 5700 Dacy Lane (McCormick M.S.), Buda
Living Word Lutheran ELCA 2315 FM 967, Buda
A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle
Redeeming Grace Lutheran LCMS FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca
Fellowship Church at Plum Creek 160 Grace Street at 2770, Kyle
Resurrection Church, CLBA 401 FM 967, Buda
Word of Life Christian Faith Center 118 Trademark Drive, Buda
The Well Buda
Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle
CATHOLIC
METHODIST
Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda
Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda
Trinity United Chuch of Niederwald 13700 Camino Real, Hwy. 21, Niederwald
Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W.
St. Michael’s Catholic Church S. Old Spanish Trail, Uhland
Santa Cruz Catholic Church
AGENT
Debbie Thames Insurance Debbie Thames Insurance Agency Agency
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St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle
Texas Crossword, from page 8
DEBBIE THAMES
When he was not at his dealership, he was spending time with his family. His home hosted many family gatherings, BBQs and even a few weddings! He loved to take trips to the coast with his wife, Patti, just to walk on the beach and listen to the waves. We will miss Wood terribly. He left a void in this life that cannot be filled. We will continue to live in his honor. We will appreciate every day as he did. Wood is survived by his beloved wife, Patti, of 29 years, daughters, Nikki (Scott) and Christine ( Jim), sons, Brian and Michael, mother, Chris Williams, brothers, Wayne, Doug, Darren and Gary and sister, Terri. His has four grandchildren, Tyler, Sydney, Catie, and Morgan. He has many sisters-in-law, brotherin-law and nieces and nephews. A memorial service was held at Marbridge, Texas on Saturday, May 11. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Marbridge Foundation. Please visit www.Harrellfuneralhomes.com to share a fond memory, photograph, or condolence with Wood’s family on his on-line memorial site.
Mision de Casa de Oracion S. Hwy. 81, Kyle
Journey United Methodist 4301 Benner Rd, Kyle, Tx
New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd.
CHRISTIAN
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor
New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda
Manchaca United Methodist Church FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca
St. John’s Presbyterian Church 12420 Hewitt Ln., Manchaca
Iglesia Israelita Casa de Dios 816 Green Pastures Dr., Kyle
Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170
First Presbyterian Church 410 W. Hutchison, San Marcos, TX 78666
Elm Street & San Marcos
*Traditional Worship (Worship Center)-9 a.m. Sunday School (all ages)-10:00 a.m.
*Informal Worship (Worship Center)-11 a.m. Wednesday Evening (Chapel)-6:30 p.m.
Rev. Lisa Straus Office 295-6981 • www.BudaUMC.org
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Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle
Buda United Methodist Church
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Hays Hills Baptist Church
Contemporary Sunday worship 10:45 a.m. 401 FM 967, Buda, TX
9:30 a.m. Classic Service 10:45 a.m. Contemporary service Adult (including an 8:30 a.m. early bird class), teen, children’s classes * Children’s worship Professionally-staffed nursery & pre-school
www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626
Christ-centered, Bible believing, friendly. A place to ask questions… and find some answers. Come grow with us! RESURRECTIONBUDA.ORG
First Baptist Church
A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161 Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m. Morning Worship....................................10:45 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m. AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m. Nursery Provided www.firstbaptistbuda.com • fbcbuda@austin.rr.com
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Page 8
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Lack of oversight?
Dead bill stirs discussion on environmental violations BY EXSAR ARGUELLO
be given is at least equal to the value of the economDespite dying in ic benefit gained by the committee, a bill aimed alleged violator. at increasing the penalty “We have more facilities imposed by the Texas applying for TCEQ permits Commission on Environevery day, particularly in mental Quality (TCEQ) for the aggregate industry,” environmental violations Zwiener said. “We need to stirred a conversation be confident that TCEQ about the agency’s lack of has the regulatory strucoversight. ture in place that encourHouse Bill 3035 by Rep. ages new permittees to be Erin Zwiener (D-Driftproactive.” wood) would have reZwiener said larger quired TCEQ to ensure the companies with TCEQ amount of any administrative penalties that could permits can violate the
contingencies of that permit because the consequences don’t outweigh the economic impact to that business. If it’s cheaper to pollute the environment, there is little incentive to change.
FUNDING WOES FOR TCEQ The agency’s funding has been a topic of contention in the Texas Legislature for a decade. A lack of state funding to TCEQ means the agency must take a reactive, not
Speaking out of turn?
Kyle town hall idea hits snag Plans for Kyle city leaders to hold a series of town halls has been put on hold as officials determine whether they can do so while avoiding Texas Open Meetings Act violations. The idea came from City Council members Daphne Tenorio and Alex Villalobos who both requested to host town hall meetings “regularly” to promote citizen involvement. On May 7, Tenorio and Villallobs announced their intentions to host meetings where citizens can comment and receive immediate responses from city leaders. Public forums and citizen comment periods during city council meetings do not allow for response and immediate discussion between council members and citizens. Following Tenorio’s and Villalobos’ announcement, other city council members expressed interest in being present at these events in order to be available to take questions and comments. “It’s just a meet and greet for anyone to come and talk freely and ask questions,” Tenorio said. “We can’t do citizen comments where you’re not allowed to talk back too.” However, the idea hit a snag when city staff and its legal team raised concerns on how the town halls can differentiate from standard city council meetings, while also not violating TOMA. Per TOMA rules, any meeting that has four or more members of the city council present, known as a quorum, is required have a set agenda posted 72 hours beforehand. Meetings that meet quorum requirements must also be recorded. Mayor Travis Mitchell supported the town hall idea but was open to having individually scheduled meetings with constituents other than at city hall. These meetings would include as many constituents who would like to attend but would only have one council member at a time present. Mitchell’s proposed meetings could
Per TOMA rules, any meeting that has four or more members of the city council present, known as a quorum, is required have a set agenda posted 72-hours beforehand.
be held at a coffee shop or other non-municipal establishments. “We could market it as coffee with council members,” Mitchell said. “It might be that we end up having to make it less formal, not sponsored by the city.” Constituents who attend city meetings regularly complain that council is unable to participate in ongoing discussion or answer questions during citizen comment periods. Resident Lila Knight said May 7 she finds it difficult to communicate with council members outside of regularly scheduled meetings. However, city council members are now waiting to get a response from City Manager Scott Sellers and the city attorney as to what
types of meetings they can host to promote resident communication. If allowed, council members Tenorio and Villalobos are hoping to host these meetings on the third Sunday of each month. City leaders plan to host a meeting at 3 p.m., May 19, if approved.
successful.” Alex Perkowski, Policy Fellow on Zwiener’s staff, said the agency has an interest in having facilities operate, a flaw in its funding process. There was a conversation at the committee on raising the penalty limit that TCEQ imposes on its violators. The limit of $25,000 has not been raised in more than a decade, which could be another way to address the issue.
The bill did not get voted out of the Environmental Regulation Committee, but Zwiener said getting the conversation started is equally important. “We had a great conversation at committee,” Zwiener said. “We know TCEQ struggles to get full compliance with people who have permitting under them. A lot of folks play the game. This agency is meant to protect the environment, so let’s allow them to do so.”
Rebel Softball Continued from pg. 4
Rebels succeeded in tallying seven runs on nine hits off of Canyon backup pitcher Hunter Vestal. That included a threerun outburst in the seventh frame that gave Hays the separation needed in a 7-2 victory. Cone said use of speed on the base paths, as well as turning to small ball, played a role. Playing loose and “having fun the whole game” was a key difference, Cone said. Coming together and “believing in ourselves” were essential components in scoring the win, Davis said. In the circle, Hays senior Max Valdez, who pitched in 19 of the 21 total innings in the series,
limited the Cougarettes to two runs on five hits while striking out nine total batters in Game 2. Valdez also forced Canyon to leave eight total runners on the base paths. “We fought as a team and cheered on each other,” Davis said. “We all fought together and it really helped us.” However, Hays couldn’t hold back Canyon’s opportunistic offense in Game 3. Canyon led 2-1 after two innings and added two more runs in the fourth frame to take a 4-1 advantage. The Cougarettes added three more runs off of Noble, who relieved Valdez in the fifth and sixth frames of the third
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contest. Cone said she couldn’t have asked “for a better performance” from her two pitchers. “They pitched against a great hitting team. They knew they had to hit their spots and they did that,” Cone said. Despite seeing their high school softball careers end, Rodriguez said she and other seniors hope to show the next generation the purpose necessary to reach their goals. “We hope to achieve the purpose. You can’t go down without a fight. We hope they believe in themselves and that they can do it,” Rodriguez said.
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proactive, approach to adequately citing offenders. Zwiener said the agency is set up to be self-funded through the permitting process. However, that money doesn’t go directly to the agency’s account. The monies are funneled to the State Treasury’s office and allocated. “We consistently have not put all of those funds back to TCEQ,” Zwiener said. “This isn’t about beating up the agency, but giving them the tools to be
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Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Page 9
Business
Dripping Springs wedding venue accused of causing pollution BY EXSAR ARGUELLO
Accusations of creek pollution caused by construction of a controversial Driftwood wedding venue is generating concerns from residents who worry the issue could negatively affect the Edwards Aquifer. The Driftwood-area Mark Black Wedding Venue, located on Crystal Hills Drive in Dripping Springs’ extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), was cited in February 2019 for three envi-
“I immediately noticed the change in the water last week. We monitor the creek all the time and we’ve never seen anything like this before. The creek has always been pristine until now.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF CARLOS TORRES-VERDIN
Neighbors of the wedding venue construction have witnessed a milky substance draining into the creek.
Alliance and neighboring resident, said multiple eyewitnesses are seeing a milky substance run later, nearby residents through a neighboring are still seeing potential creek from the construcenvironmental violations tion’s site. near the construction “I immediately noticed site. the change in the water Carlos Torres-Verdin, last week,” Torres-Verdin president of Friendship said. “We monitor the
–Carlos Torres-Verdin, president of Friendship Alliance and neighboring resident
ronmental violations, which have since been addressed by the owner. The venue is owned by Mark and Michael Black. But three months
creek all the time and we’ve never seen anything like this before. The creek has always been pristine until now.” The creek is a small body of water that eventually joins Bear Creek, which contributes to the Edwards Aquifer. Torres-Verdin said he fears
the milky substance could make its way to people’s drinking water. Neighbors have taken water samples from the creek and are awaiting scientific analysis on the components of the water.
VENUE POLLUTION, 14
Three investing mistakes most people make I nvesting in the stock market provides you with an opportunity to put your money to work, seeking to earn an impressive return. Historically, the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index has returned close to 10 percent on an average annual basis. Of course, past performance is no guarantee of future results. But most investors fail to take full advantage of this opportunity. In fact, they often earn considerably
Financial Focus by Zachary Barton
less than the average market return. A 2015 report from DALBAR Inc. showed that the average investor underperformed the S&P 500 by 3.6 percent. In 2016, the gap widened: The S&P 500 returned about 12 percent, while the
average investor saw only about a 5% return.3 Why does this happen? There are three big mistakes investors tend to make – over and over again.
MISTAKE #1: TRYING TO TIME THE MARKET It’s impossible to predict when you should sell ahead of a downturn or start buying before a resurgence. When investors try to time the market, they often miss
the mark, buying high or selling low – or both. In the process, they negatively affect their potential return. People who think they know that the market is about to drop (or make a comeback) may be kidding themselves. No one knows for certain what will happen next. What is predictable is that the market will experience periodic volatility. So, instead of trying to time the market, you can plan for volatility
by engaging in a longterm investment strategy and using dollar-cost averaging—purchasing a certain amount of an investment on a set schedule. That way, you’ll be purchasing more stock when the price is low, less when the price is high. Of course, a program of systematic investing does not guarantee a profit or protect against losses in declining markets. An investor should consider his or her ability to continue making purchases during
periods of declining prices, when the value of their investment may be falling.
MISTAKE #2: REACTING EMOTIONALLY. Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors ever, famously advised against letting emotions sway investment decisions when he said, “Be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.”
FINANCIAL FOCUS, 14
KNOW THE FACTS
About the Permian Highway Pipeline Project THE PROJECT WILL PROVIDE NUMEROUS BENEFITS TO HAYS COUNTY AND THE STATE OF TEXAS LOCAL TAX REVENUE
Following Project completion, Kinder Morgan will pay an estimated $1.6 million annually to state and local taxing bodies in Hays County, which will help fund local needs.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Nearly 2,500 local construction jobs across the state will be created by this Project.
FUELING THE TEXAS ECONOMY
This Project alone will provide nearly $1 billion in additional oil and gas production tax revenue for the state each year. This money is used to fund schools, roads, universities and first responders in the state. It will further increase what the Texas industry already pays, which was more than $14 billion last year.
SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES Workers for the Project will spend more than $10 million in the Hill Country during construction.
www.PHPproject.com
LANDOWNER COMPENSATION
Landowners with properties crossed by the pipelines receive, at minimum, fair market value for easements. This land can continue to be used for most purposes.
PHP_Project@kindermorgan.com
833-626-0339
Page 10
Kinder Morgan: Motions to dismiss suit Continued from pg. 1
main rights derive from the Texas Constitution and the Texas Legislature. Officials cited more than $14 billion in state and local taxes and state royalties were paid by the oil and natural gas industry. “The lawsuit is a prime example of why eminent domain exists – to allow important infrastructure projects that provide significant public benefits,” according to the release. “Halting natural gas pipeline projects in the state would undercut the Texas economy and widespread community benefits.” Kinder Morgan’s move comes after several entities joined the Texas Real Estate Advocacy and Defense (TREAD) coalition in a lawsuit against the company and the Texas Railroad Commission. The suit, filed in late April in Travis County District Court, sought a temporary injunction to stop Kinder Morgan’s project, while also seeking more oversight from the Texas Railroad Commission on the way pipelines
Kinder Morgan’s move comes after several entities joined the Texas Real Estate Advocacy and Defense (TREAD) coalition in a lawsuit against the company and the Texas Railroad Commission. The suit, filed in late April in Travis County District Court, sought a temporary injunction to stop Kinder Morgan’s project, while also seeking more oversight from the Texas Railroad Commission on the way pipelines are routed. are routed. Kinder Morgan’s request for summary judgement also comes as opposition continues to grow against the project. On May 7, the Johnson City City Council unanimously passed a resolution opposing the PHP, a 430-mile, 42-inch underground natural gas pipeline that would stretch from far west Texas to the Houston area. The proposed pipeline route is expected to cut through
the Texas Hill Country and could pass through Hays County. Johnson City joins Kyle, San Marcos, Buda, Wimberley, Fredericksburg, as well as Hays and Gillespie counties, in passing resolutions opposing the project. In a statement, TREAD representatives said they were not trying to halt pipelines, but create a more transparent process in how thoses lines are routed.
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Police Blotter The following is a tally of all calls made to law enforcement within Hays County between May 6 and May 12, 2019. Abduction/Kidnapping............................................1 Civil Matter..............................................................1 Information..............................................................3 Compliance Check................................................14 Property - lost/found/imp........................................4 Civil standby............................................................1 Alarm - business....................................................38 Alarm - residential.................................................31 Animal call.............................................................83 Loose livestock......................................................14 Field euthanasia......................................................1 Assault.....................................................................6 Sexual assault.........................................................1 Assist EMS............................................................14 Assist Fire Department............................................8 Assist outside agency...........................................12 Burglary - building...................................................1 Burglary - habitation................................................4 Burglary - vehicle.....................................................4 Criminal mischief.....................................................4 Death investigation..................................................2 Environmental crime................................................3 Death Investigation..................................................1 Illegal dumping........................................................1 Disorderly conduct..................................................1 Disturbance - noise...............................................19 Disturbance - physical fight..................................11 Disturbance - verbal..............................................12 Violation of order.....................................................1 Drug paraphernalia..................................................1 MIP - tobacco..........................................................1 Narcotics information..............................................2 Alcohol Violation......................................................1 Fraud.....................................................................12 Harassment.............................................................7 Threat......................................................................4 Mental health follow up...........................................7 Sex Offenses...........................................................1 Mental Health Invest................................................1 Mental health transport...........................................1
Violation city ordinance...........................................2 Missing person........................................................1 Public assist............................................................7 Disabled vehicle....................................................17 Close patrol.........................................................138 Foot patrol...............................................................2 Parental discipline assist.........................................1 Flagged down..........................................................1 Welfare concern....................................................18 Suicidal person........................................................5 Investigation............................................................1 Supplement...........................................................66 Suspicious circumstances....................................24 Suspicious person.................................................11 Suspicious vehicle.................................................26 Wanted person......................................................17 Identity theft............................................................1 Theft......................................................................19 Vehicle theft.............................................................5 Recovered stolen vehicle........................................2 Accident - minor....................................................26 Accident - hit and run..............................................6 Accident - major injury..........................................18 Abandoned/stored vehicle....................................18 Directed/area enforcement......................................2 Traffic control/direction............................................4 Traffic hazard.........................................................55 Attempt to locate...................................................56 Parking enforcement...............................................1 Traffic stop...........................................................321 Solicitors..................................................................1 Trespassing/unwanted..........................................10 911 abandoned/open..........................................144 911 hang up............................................................2 911 Transer..............................................................1 911 misdial..............................................................1 Deadly conduct.......................................................1 Discharged firearm..................................................3 Private tow/repo......................................................8 Fire - other...............................................................1
The following is a list of highlighted calls made to law enforcement agencies in Hays County between May 6 and May 12, 2019.
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Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
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Remember to honor your graduate in the 2019 Graduation Edition commemorating the senior classes of Hays High, Lehman High and Live Oak Academy. Email paper@haysfreepress.com or call 512-268-7862 for more information or visit www.HaysFreePress.com and click on the Graduation Edition banner.
Agency Activity HCSO Assault HCSO Assault HCSO Sexual Assault BPD Burglary - Habitation HCSO Burglary - Vehicle BPD Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight BPD Suicidal Person HCSO Suicidal Person HCSO Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury BPD Assault HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Sex Offenses HCSO Suicidal Person BPD Theft BPD Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Vehicle Theft BPD Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Assault HCSO Assault HCSO Burglary - Habitation BPD Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Drug Paraphernalia HCSO Missing Person HCSO Suicidal Person BPD Theft BPD Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Vehicle Theft HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Assault HCSO Assault BPD Burglary - Building HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Controlled Substance HCSO Missing Person BPD Theft HCSO Vehicle Theft BPD Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Abduction/Kidnapping HCSO Assault HCSO Assault HCSO Assault HCSO Assault HCSO Burglary - Habitation HCSO Burglary - Habitation HCSO Burglary - Vehicle BPD Death Investigation HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Extradition BPD Theft BPD Theft BPD Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Theft HCSO Vehicle Theft HCSO Vehicle Theft BPD Accident - Major/Injury BPD Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Burglary - Building HCSO Death Investigation BPD Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight BPD Theft HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Burglary - Vehicle HCSO Burglary - Vehicle HCSO Death Investigation HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight HCSO Theft HCSO Accident - Major/Injury HCSO Accident - Major/Injury
Date 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/06/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/07/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/09/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/09/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/08/2019 05/09/2019 05/09/2019 05/09/2019 05/09/2019 05/09/2019 05/09/2019 05/09/2019 05/09/2019 05/10/2019 05/09/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/11/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/10/2019 05/11/2019 05/11/2019 05/11/2019 05/12/2019 05/11/2019 05/11/2019 05/13/2019 05/13/2019 05/12/2019 05/12/2019 05/12/2019 05/12/2019 05/12/2019 05/12/2019
Time 16:03:25 22:46:11 19:06:45 6:17:59 17:18:22 22:50:28 8:31:43 14:41:19 16:41:04 14:18:26 11:23:24 18:05:27 21:47:27 7:12:49 9:52:46 12:34:29 22:32:42 10:31:49 17:15:50 14:05:54 17:08:08 8:22:02 10:45:32 14:16:26 15:14:08 11:15:08 16:33:31 10:39:28 18:01:38 19:20:33 21:55:16 10:39:10 12:56:15 8:56:56 18:29:43 15:56:53 20:22:43 17:53:15 12:45:37 2:40:51 16:50:57 21:59:58 3:55:14 12:12:43 13:01:15 15:01:23 16:03:07 16:45:08 8:19:48 15:10:00 13:31:48 18:42:18 19:27:32 15:26:18 23:53:39 18:38:18 5:26:50 17:15:07 19:09:32 14:54:29 16:31:35 17:49:31 18:43:17 15:17:14 19:11:29 7:03:12 9:32:10 2:00:50 9:32:28 8:29:03 14:57:48 15:52:09 12:26:46 14:03:38 9:30:59 15:15:27 8:00:03 13:55:44 9:55:36 20:32:56 14:34:51 14:50:37 0:21:55 14:24:49 11:12:36 0:27:37 2:52:34 18:12:41 10:10:43 17:58:32 10:10:47 8:27:34 22:00:34
Location Seton Hays Hospital, Kyle W US 290, Dripping Springs Hill Country Care Howard Ln Buda Mandan St Buda Steamboat Xing, Dripping Springs Cullen Blvd, Buda Saddleblanket Trl, Buda Sycamore Springs Middle School Mariah Dr, Kyle E Loop St, Buda, Buda Library Dripping Springs, Springs Apartments Kyle Cemetery Arbor Bay Dr/Founders Rdg, Dripping Springs 2167 S FM 1626, Buda 1129 Harris Hill Rd, San Marcos IH 35 Fr, Buda, H&E Equipment Services San Marcos Regency MHP Carney Ln, San Marcos Sandy Point Rd, Wimberley Walmart of Buda Walmart of Buda Lehman Rd, San Marcos Wimberley Tobacco Barn Hilliard Rd/Alpine Trl San Marcos Wimberley, Brookshire Brothers Kyle, Precinct 2 Tax Office Exit 220 SB, Buda RR 1826/Darden Hill Rd, Driftwood W US 290 Dripping Springs, Patriot Erectors 440 block Harris Hill Rd, San Marcos Sawyer Ranch Rd/W Us 290 Dripping Springs Kyle, Wallace Middle School Limerick Rd, Buda Running Bull Ln, Kyle Cabelas Dr, Buda, Carrington Oaks Kyle, Lehman High School Poplar Dr, Mountain City Sprucewood Dr, Wimberley Walmart Of Buda Tractor Supply Of Buda W Third St, Kyle Stella Gold St, Buda IH 35, Tractor Supply Of Buda Gardner Rd, Kyle RR 12, Wimberley, Plaza Del Sol RR 3237/RR 12, Wimberley Regina Dr/Hillside Dr, Buda 1046 Harris Hill Rd, San Marcos Kyle, Chapa Middle School Sycamore Springs Middle School W Goforth St, Buda, Center Union Hilliard Rd, San Marcos Thousand Oaks Loop, San Marcos Buda, McCormick Middle School Cotton Gin Rd, Kyle HEB of Buda Stag Horn Pass, Kyle N FM 1626/RR 967 Buda Lilac Way, Kyle Dacy Ln, Kyle, Chapa Middle School Goforth Rd, Kyle Bridle Path, Kyle Woodcreek Dr, Woodcreek Santa Fe Run, Kyle Judy Dr, Dripping Springs Joe Harper Ct, Dripping Springs RR 967, Buda, Creekside Villas Country Ln, Kyle San Marcos, Hays County Law Enforcement Center Walmart of Buda IH 35 Fr, Buda, Dollar Tile IH 35, Buda, Twin Liquores Dragon Ridge Rd, Buda 4800 Jack C Hays Trl, Buda, All HCISD Properties Drifting Wind, Run Dripping Springs W Mccarty Ln, San Marcos 210 FM 2001 Buda S FM 1626/Oyster Crk Buda E RR 150/CR 202 Kyle San Marcos Lease & Lock Storage Wimberley, 7A Ranch Resort Heep Run, Buda Windmill Run, Wimberley Walmart of Buda 1711 W Us 290, Dripping Springs, Tractor Supply Compass Ln, Kyle Nautical Loop, Kyle Kyle, Seton Hays Hospital FM 2001 Buda San Marcos, La Vista Retirement Community S Sunset Canyon Dr, Dripping Springs W Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs 2951 block FM 2001, Buda
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Page 11
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STOP CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN
Do you have a family member with memory loss who lives in a care facility? The University of Minnesota is examining the effects of an educational program to support family members with a loved one in a care facility. It will be led by a trained coach. Learn more about participating in this free study by contacting Professor Joe Gaugler at 612.626.2485 or gaug0015@umn.edu.
Visit http://z.umn.edu/transitionmodule to learn more
Classifieds
20 words for $8!
• Place your classified ad by calling 512-268-7862 • Email paper@haysfreepress.com We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover DEADLINE: NOON MONDAY FOR WEDNESDAY’S PAPER
Hays Free Press
Page 12
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Employment
DIRECT CARE COUNSELORS Provide positive role modeling, structure, and supervision to adolescent boys. No exp. required, We train comprehensively. Pay starting at $12 per hour for flexible 8 & 16 hr shift schedules. Health/life/dental insurance after 60 days. Min. requirements: Must be 21 yrs old, HS/GED, clean TDL, clean criminal history, pre-employment TB skin test, and drug screen. Growing (20+ year old) non-profit organization. www.pegasusschool.net. Call (512)432-1678 for further information.
Public Notices REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
Texican Cafe at Kyle!
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Garage Sales
Auto For Sale
GARAGE SALE
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MOVING SALE
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CLASSIC BEAUTIFUL Car for sale - Golden Beige with Clean Leather Interior. 150k original miles. 250 HP 4.0 Liter V-8. Automatic , Moonroof, Power Windows/Locks, Working Awesome Sound System with 12 disc changer, EXTREMELY Cold Air and Heat. Has Heated Seats. Clean Texas Title. It does have some necessary repairs needed but with some TLC you'll have a beautiful classic Sports car! $4200 O.B.O. - Call or text 512-395-7461
To All Interested Parties: The City of Buda is seeking a qualified facility design consultant to perform Architectural and Engineering Design Services and Construction Services for the renovation and remodel of the existing former Library building located at 303 Main Street, Buda, TX. The project involves the design and production of construction documents to renovate and remodel the approximately 5,200 square foot former City of Buda Library facility into a visitor’s center, community space, and office space for the City of Buda Tourism and Main Street departments. Please submit five (5) copies of the proposal, along with one (1) electric submittal on a CD or flash drive, signed in ink in a sealed envelope to: City of Buda Attention: Purchasing Manager RE: RFQ Number 19-011 Ð Design and Construction Services for the Renovation and Remodel of the Former Buda Library Located at 303 Main Street 405 Loop Street Buda, Texas 78610 The deadline for submission of proposals is 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 14, 2019. The City of Buda reserves the right to negotiate with any and all persons or firms submitting proposals, per the Texas Professional Services Procurement Act and the Uniform Grant and Contract Management Standards. The City of Buda is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to attain goals for Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701u), as amended. Please visit www.ci.buda. tx.us/137/Purchasing for additional information.
PUBLIC NOTICE
By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on May 21st, 2019 at 9 a.m. in the Hays County Courthouse, 111 E. San Antonio Street, the Hays County Commissioners Court will hold a public hearing to consider: Replat of Lot 4, Legend Oaks Section Two Subdivision
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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Put Your Money To Work With Passive Income. Investment Secured With Real Estate. Ask Leo How! Call 469-544-9503. Dimensions Investment Group.
EMPLOYMENT Collin County in McKinney, Texas needs Detention Officers. Starting at $18.49/hour. No experience required. Excellent benefits and promotional opportunities. Apply online. https://www.collincountytx.gov/ careers/txpapers.
CHARITY Donate a boat or car today to Boat Angel. 2-Night Free Vacation. Sponsored by Boat Angel Outreach Centers to stop crimes against children. 800-700-BOAT, www.boatangel.com.
CAREER TRAINING
Be Your Own Boss Choose Your Own Routes! Looking for CDL drivers to deliver new trucks all over the country, starting in Laredo, TX. Experience preferred. Must have DOT physical and be willing to keep logs. No DUIs in last 10 years, clean MVR.
Apply Online at www.qualitydriveaway.com or call 574-642-2023
MEMORY LOSS Do you have a family member with memory loss who lives in a care facility? The University of Minnesota is examining the effects of an educational program to support family members with a loved one in a care facility. It will be led by a trained coach. Learn more about participating in this free study by contacting Professor Joe Gaugler at 612-626-2485 or gaug0015@umn.edu. Visit z.umn.edu/transitionmodule to learn more.
OIL AND GAS RIGHTS We buy oil, gas & mineral rights. Both non- producing and producing including non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI). Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation. 806-620-1422, LoboMineralsLLC@ gmail.com. Lobo Minerals, LLC, PO Box 1800, Lubbock, TX 79408-1800.
MISC. FOR SALE KILL BED BUGS! Buy Harris Sprays, Traps, Kits, Mattress Covers. DETECT, KILL, PREVENT Available: Hardware Stores, The Home Depot, homedepot.com.
TRUCK DRIVERS
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Be Your Own Boss! Get Paid to See the Country! Quality Drive-Away is looking for CDL Drivers to Deliver Trucks! www.qualitydriveaway.com, 574-642-2023.
LEGAL ASSISTANCE
VACATION
Roundup®, a common weed and grass killer, may be linked to the development of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in farm workers and employees in garden centers, nurseries, and landscapers. Call 800-460-0606 for professional insight or visit www.RespectForYou. com/NHL.
Lake Fork, Texas – Minnow Bucket Marina – Motel – Restaurant – Fishing – RV – Camping – One of the greatest big bass lakes in the country. Almost all of the Texas top 50 giants were caught on Lake Fork. 903878-2500, www.minnowbucketmarina.com.
Texas Press Statewide Classified Network 273 Participating Texas Newspapers • Regional Ads Start At $250 • Email ads@texaspress.com NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, we cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of ALFRED GUERRERO, Deceased, were issued on May 6, 2019, in Docket No. 19-0150-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to: MANUELA GUERRERO The residence of the Independent Executrix is in San Marcos, Hays County, Texas. Address claims in care of the representative, MANUELA GUERRERO, Independent Executrix. The post office address to which claims may be presented, is: c/o MANUELA GUERRERO, Independent Executrix 406 Picasso Drive San Marcos, Texas 78666 All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. Address claims in care of MANUELA GUERRERO, Independent Executrix. DATED the 8TH day of May, 2019. Respectfully submitted, SCANIO & SCANIO A Professional Corporation BY:/s/ Francesca Scanio Stacey FRANCESCA SCANIO STACEY State Bar No. 24077299 144 E. San Antonio Street San Marcos, Texas 78666 Tel: (512) 3962016 Fax: (512) 353-2984 Email: scanios@scaniolaw. com ATTORNEYS FOR MANUELA GUERRERO
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF CHARLOTTE SLOAN ST. GERMAIN AS INDEPENDENT EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND JAMES ST. GERMAIN, DECEASED
TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ABOVE ESTATE: WHEREAS, on the 17th day of April, 2019, in County Court No. 2, Hays County, Texas, the undersigned duly qualified as the Independent Executrix of the Estate of Raymond James St. Germain, Deceased. Notice is hereby given that Original Letters Testamentary on this estate were granted and this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present the same to the undersigned within the time prescribed by law. Any person indebted to said estate is hereby notified to pay same to the undersigned: CHARLOTTE SLOAN ST. GERMAIN, Independent Executrix of the Estate of Raymond James St. Germain, Deceased. Address: c/o Granstaff, Gaedke & Edgmon, P.C., Attorneys Attn: J. Mark Edgmon, 5535 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 110, San Antonio, Texas 78229 Dated at San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas, May 7, 2019.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Bartlett Cocke General contractors, Construction Manager-at-Risk, for: Dahlstrom/Wallace Concessions, is requesting competitive proposals from subcontractors and suppliers. Subcontractor and supplier proposals will be received via Fax to (512) 326-4339 or (512) 3263990 Fax or via email to bidaus@bartlettcocke.com no later than 2:00:00 PM on 5/30/2019. Any proposals received after this time will not be accepted. Electronic copies of the proposal documents may be obtained from Bartlett Cocke or viewed at local and online planrooms. Contact Stefan Doerr via email Sdoerr@bartlettcocke.com or phone (512) 326-4223 Phone to make arrangements. Small, Woman Owned, Disadvantaged, HUB, HUBZone, 8(a), Minority, and all similar firms are encouraged to submit proposals on this project. Bartlett Cocke General Contractors is an equal opportunity (EEO) employer.
PUBLIC NOTICES, 13
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Page 13
Public Notices, continued from page 12 REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
The Alliance Regional Water Authority (the “OWNER”) is requesting sealed written statements of qualifications for serving as the OWNER’S Architectural/Engineering design professional for the Administrative & Operations Facility Design (RFQ No. 2019-001). ALL STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS ARE DUE BY 3:00 P.M., Central Time, on Thursday, June 6, 2019. Documents may be obtained without charge from www.CivCastUSA. com. Proponents must register on this website in order to view and/or download the Request for Qualifications. At the time a Proponent registers on this website, the Proponent must provide a working e-mail address, so the Proponent will receive any addenda or clarification issued by the OWNER. ANY STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS NOT RECEIVED BY THE DATE AND TIME SET FORTH ABOVE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED FOR CONSIDERATION. All procurements by the OWNER are subject to the OWNER’s Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program. The Program provides HUBs full opportunity to participate in all of the OWNER’s contracts. Goals for HUB participation are stated for each solicitation. Information on achieving the goals or documenting good faith efforts to achieve the goals are contained in the Bid Documents. When a HUB participation goal applies, each Proponent is required to complete and return a HUB Participation Plan with its Statement of Qualifications. If a HUB Participation Plan is not submitted with a Statement of Qualification, the Statement of Qualification will not be accepted for consideration. The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all Statements of Qualifications and to waive any minor informality (one that does not affect the competitiveness
of the Statement of Qualifications) in any Statement of Qualification or in the solicitation process. The persons listed below may be contacted for information regarding the Request for Qualifications. If a Proponent contacts any other officer or employee of the OWNER during the period beginning on the date this Request for Qualifications is issued and ending on the date of contract award or rejection of all Statements of Qualifications by the OWNER’s Board of Directors, any Statement of Qualification submitted by the Proponent is subject to rejection by the OWNER. Authorized Contact Persons: OWNER’s Executive Director: Graham Moore; 512-294-3214; gmoore@alliancewater.org
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS DRIPPING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL ADDITIONS & RENOVATIONS BID PACKAGE NO. 2: BUILDING PACKAGE
American Constructors, the Construction Managerat-Risk for Dripping Springs High School Additions and Renovations, requests proposals for Bid Package No. 2. The scope of work consists of all trades with the exception of: Demolition, Earthwork, Erosion Controls, Landscaping & Irrigation, and Utilities. A site visit is scheduled for Friday, May 10 at 7:00 AM. Please meet in front of the high school with a valid ID. Proposals are due Thursday, May 23 at 2:00 PM. Proposals may be emailed to estimating@ americanconstructors. com or mailed/delivered to American Constructors at 11900 West Parmer Lane, Suite 200, Cedar Park, TX 78613, or submitted via fax to (512) 328-2520. Documents are available for downloading from American Constructors’ FTP site, as well as multiple plan rooms. Please visit www.americanconstructors. com for further details. Please contact American Constructors at 512-328-
2026 with any additional questions on this project.
Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: SUB-1254.
REQUEST FOR BIDS
The City of Buda is seeking proposals from qualified respondents to reuse the City of Buda former City Hall building located at 121 S. Main Street, Buda, TX. The goal of the Request for Proposals (RFP 19-010) is to enter into a long-term lease with an organization, business, group, non-profit, developer, or property management group which provides the best overall proposal to renovate, reuse, and maintain the former city hall. Please submit five (5) copies of the proposal, along with one (1) electric submittal on a CD or flash drive, signed in ink in a sealed envelope to: City of Buda Attention: Purchasing Manager RE: RFP 19-010 CITY HALL FACILITY REUSE 405 Loop Street Buda, Texas 78610 A Pre-Proposal Meeting and Tour of the Facility will be held on May 22, 2019 at 2:00 pm at 121 Main Street. The deadline for submission of proposals is 12:00 pm, Wednesday June 12, 2019. The City of Buda reserves the right to negotiate with any and all persons or firms submitting proposals, per the Texas Professional Services Procurement Act and the Uniform Grant and Contract Management Standards. The City of Buda is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to attain goals for Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701u), as amended. Please visit www.ci.buda. tx.us/137/Purchasing for additional information.
NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE
An application has been filed with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 16.14 acres of property located at along FM 2001, Buda, TX 78610. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County
NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS, COUNTY OF HAYS
By virtue of a Writ of Execution issued by the Justice of the Peace Precinct 5 of HAYS County, Texas, April 10, 2019, in cause numbered C11-043J5, styled ECCO 2018TX1, LLC AS ASSIGNEE OF ADVANTAGE ASSETS II, INC. versus FLORO LOPEZ, DEFENDANT(S) on a judgment rendered against FLORO LOPEZ; I did on April 25, 2019, at 10:00 a.m., levy upon as the property of FLORO LOPEZ the following described real property: HILLSIDE TERRACE LOT 4 BLK 5 GEO#90612798 AND HILLSIDE TERRACE, BLOCKS, LOT 4, MH TITLE# 1013931, LABEL# RAD1110282, IMPT ONLY OF THE OFFICIAL PUBLIC RECORDS OF HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS AND KNOWN LOCALLY AS 313 DENISE ELLEN, BUDA, HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS 78610 On JUNE 4, 2019, being the first Tuesday of the month, between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., beginning at 10:00 a.m., at the Hays County, at the South Door, 712 Stagecoach Trail of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of San Marcos, Texas, I will sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of FLORO LOPEZ in and to the real property described above. Dated at Buda, Hays County, Texas, April 25, 2019. John Ellen Constable, Pct. 5 Hays County, Texas 500 Jack C Hays Trail Buda, Texas 78610 By Alice Flores, Deputy Notice to Bidders: You are buying whatever interest, if any , the Debtor has in the property. Purchase of the Debtor's interest in the property may not extinguish any liens or security interests held by other persons. There are no warranties, express or implied, regarding
the property being sold, including but not limited to warranties of title, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Notice to Judgment Debtor: If there is any property, real or personal, you want to point out for levy in lieu of the above described property, you must contact this office immediately.
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
To All Interested Parties: The City of Buda is seeking a qualified facility design consultant to perform Architectural and Engineering Design Services and Construction Services for the renovation and remodel of the existing former Library building located at 303 Main Street, Buda, TX. The project involves the design and production of construction documents to renovate and remodel the approximately 5,200 square foot former City of Buda Library facility into a visitor’s center, community space, and office space for the City of Buda Tourism and Main Street departments. Please submit five (5) copies of the proposal, along
with one (1) electric submittal on a CD or flash drive, signed in ink in a sealed envelope to: City of Buda Attention: Purchasing Manager RE: RFQ Number 19-011 – Design and Construction Services for the Renovation and Remodel of the Former Buda Library Located at 303 Main Street 405 Loop Street Buda, Texas 78610 The deadline for submission of proposals is 2:00 pm, Friday, June 14, 2019. The City of Buda reserves the right to negotiate with any and all persons or firms submitting proposals, per the Texas Professional Services Procurement Act and the Uniform Grant and Contract Management Standards. The City of Buda is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and strives to attain goals for Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701u), as amended. Please visit www.ci.buda. tx.us/137/Purchasing for additional information.
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for Wine and Beer Retailer’s Off-Premise Permit by Family Dollar Stores of Texas LLC dba Family Dollar Store# 32209 located at, Kyle, TX, 78640 in Hays County. Officers of said Limited Liability Company are: Lonnie McCaffety, President; William A. Old Jr., Senior Vice President; Chief Legal Officer, General Counsel; and Secretary; Roger Dean, Vice President and Treasurer; Jonathan Elder, Vice President-Tax; Deborah Miller, Vice President; Thomas E. Schoenheit , Vice President Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary; Shawnta Totten-Medley, Vice President and Assistant Secretary; Bruce Walters, Vice President; Sandra Boscia, Assistant Secretary; CJ York, Assistant Secretary. Family Dollar Stores of Ohio, Inc. Managing Member.
Defender’s Office: Grant rejected for a second time Continued from pg. 1
Ruben Becerra to approve the application. It was the second discussion on the Texas Indigent Defense Council (TIDC) grant in roughly a week’s time. County commissioners shot down the application in a similar fashion at the May 7 meeting. The grant application was due May 10. The TIDC grant provides 80% funding to participating counties and reduces the level of funding for counties over several years. A significant qualification of the grant application is the support of county staff, county judges and district judges. However, Becerra did not have that support secured May 7 and still did not have it May 10. The rest of the application was not completed when first presented to the Commissioner’s Court
dais May 7; Becerra said the application was completed by May 10. But several commissioners were worried about a continued lack of information on the application, as well as a lack of support behind it. Those same issues led commissioners to originally kill the application May 7. Hays County Pct. 4 Commissioner Walt Smith said he was against applying because he is concerned about getting rejected and not focusing on any solutions he felt could be more viable. “The concerns that I have is that very clearly in the application is that we must display broad support from our local judiciary,” Smith said. “I’ve spoken with most of our judges and I have yet to find one willing to sign.”
The concept for the grant was an idea Becerra and his staff had when he took office. Becerra said his staff conducted research on the application and attempted to present it to commissioners about two to three weeks before it was due, said Chief of Staff Alex Villalobos. “We’ve been working on this for some time now and I asked to place it on the agenda, but I was told I asked too late,” Villalobos said. After an hour of discussion among citizens, commissioners and local judges, Becerra called for a motion to apply for the grant with the option to gain judicial support post-application. No second to the motion was offered. But all commissioners and county leaders expressed concerns
about the efficiency of the county’s legal system. Hays County Pct. 5 Justice of the Peace Scott Cary said residents are suffering from a lack of public defense for indigent defendants. Cary provided evidence May 10 of residents serving more than three months in jail due to a lack of representation and a slow legal system. County commissioners said they would be interested in applying for the grant in 2020. They would do so after research and work is done to gain support, as well as filling out the application in advance of the deadline. “Our county has been working on criminal justice reform for years,” Becerra said. “That is a pace I cannot appreciate. I will not let this die on my desk.” However, Villalobos
and Becerra addressed their intent to bring up the TIDC grant as an item for discussion in a Feb. 27 email to the General Counsel’s office. Villalobos was told in later emails sent by General Counsel Mark Kennedy that the grant application needed to be posted on an agenda for the court to vote upon. It wasn’t until 3:30 p.m. April 26 that Villalobos requested to post the TIDC grant item to the agenda. Villalobos’ request was denied because the agenda had already been posted. Legal Support Services Specialist Janice Jones said in an email to Villalobos that she had already posted the agenda for that week’s Commissioner’s Court meeting and could not add his requested item. Jones said she would have waited to post the agenda if Villalobos had
given advance notice about possibly including the grant. Villalobos said he was informed by the General Counsel that he had until 5 p.m. on the Friday before each commissioners court meeting to send in an agenda item. In an April 29 email, Kennedy said the agenda is normally posted between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m and is completed on Jones’ timeline. A posting closer to 5 p.m. is often due to communication from an outside office that they have an agenda item coming. Kennedy said Jones “had not heard” they were working on the item. He added previous emails from Villalobos did not mention of wanting to post a supplemental agenda or that the item was an emergency.
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Page 14
Hays Free Press • May 15, 2019
Venue Pollution: Residents allege issues
Financial Focus
The visual change in the water’s composition came a week after major flooding swept through western portions of Hays County, which could be the source of the contamination due to the high amount of runoff. Dripping Springs City Administrator Michelle Fischer said the city had received a complaint regarding the wedding venue and the alleged pollution in the creek. Aaron Reed, Dripping Springs’ code enforcement and construction inspector, has made a visit to the site, Fischer said. “He directed the contractor to clean and repair the damaged erosion controls,” Fischer said. “A determination has not been made at this time regarding whether a violation occurred. City staff is in
It’s easy to feel confident and excited about investing when markets go up. It’s also natural to experience panic when markets drop and you start seeing losses in your portfolio. But giving in to these emotions leads most investors to sell low (when the market goes down, and people are worried about “losing” money) and buy high (when the market goes up, and securities are more expensive).
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communications with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the matter.” Torres-Verdin said he predicts that the environmental protection measures did not account for high volumes of runoff, which could have caused the incident. “This is not an attack on the wedding venue or its business,” Torres-Verdin said. “We are just extremely concerned with the water and environmental quality of the land. We all share the land and it will affect us all.” However, the Blacks disputed claims construction on the venue caused any pollutants to the creek. “We are committed to keeping a clean creek and helping clean up any natural runoff
that may occur in the future,” according to a statement from Mark and Michael Black. “With the massive flash flooding that occurred over the past two weeks, we were happy with how our protective measures held up. The creek is in great condition and we look forward to keeping it that way forever.” According to the statement, the Blacks said their team has “gone through this process in the most professional way possible” and they have “cut no corners to make this property one of the most beautiful ranches in Texas.” “Through it all, we have abided by every law, ordinance, and regulation from local, state, and federal government,” according to the statement.
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MISTAKE #3: BELIEVING YOU KNOW MORE THAN THE MARKET Most economists and financial experts believe the stock market is efficient. This means the prices of securities in the market reflect their actual value. But some investors
act on hunches and predictions about what the market (or specific securities within it) will do next. Remember that professional investors and fund managers have access to an incredible amount of information that they use to make investment decisions, and this information is not readily available to the average investor.
that you can afford to do so, working with a financial professional who can keep you calm and thinking rationally when you want to react emotionally, and sticking to your overall financial plan and investment strategy – instead of trying to guess the next hot stock. This educational, thirdparty article is provided as a courtesy by Zachary Barton, Barton Financial Group, LLC., Agent New York Life Insurance Company. Barton Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by New York Life or its affiliates.
THE BOTTOM LINE You can avoid these three common mistakes by contributing consistently to your investment accounts each month (regardless of what the market is doing), assuming
Ride Sharing: Kyle to subsidize plan? Continued from pg. 1
$25,000 annually for its Lyft program. Through the program, Georgetown puts $10 toward each Lyft ride for participating residents who can use the app for 10 rides per month. Residents who use the program must pay a mandatory $2 fee per ride. If a ride costs more than $10, Georgetown requires those residents to pay the difference. A ride that would normally cost $15 would only cost a resident $7, per the Georgetown program. “We talked to their transportation coordinator in Georgetown,” Hendrix said. “They really like their plan and are considering keeping in on the budget.” Hendrix also cited a public-private partner-
ship between Lyft and Monrovia, California. That program, GoMonrovia, charges residents $1 for shared rides, $3.50 for a “classic” ride anywhere in the city. Rides to the city center in Monrovia costs $.50. An average ride-sharing trip in Kyle costs $6 to $8 to get to H-E-B and $12 to $15 for a ride from north to south of town. The idea of a city-subsidized ride sharing program derived from a special committee that researched ways for transportation that can help serve the retire and disabled populations. That committee was created after city council member Alex Villalobos resurrected public transportation talks in 2018
following several failed attempts that came at high cost and served few people. “With the increase in population, we’re going to have more than half a million (people) in Central Texas that are 65 and older,” Villalobos said. “We looked at how to supply a service that supports independence for a certain age group or somebody that may be mobility impaired.” Villalobos said he supports Kyle creating a deal with Lyft that features a lower cost to residents, or could cover the majority of rider cost. However, city officials said securing enough drivers to support the program is a problem that must be solved before it
moves forward. Lyft drivers work independently and are scarce in the Kyle area, officials said. City staff will be creating an analysis to discover how many drivers live in the area or near Kyle. “This is a really nice program and I hope we can figure out a way to implement this,” said Council Member Daphne Tenorio.
3310 B FM 967, Ste #A110 Buda, Texas 78610 Near the corner of FM 1626 and 967
512-523-8680 longortho.com
Dueling Departments: Buda, EDC issues Continued from pg. 1
But documents and emails obtained by the Hays Free Press show Buda city staff was part of a 2018 ITF meeting on the project and allegedly left a decision on the application up to the EDC Board of Directors. However, lingering legal issues pushed the EDC board to ultimately deny the application. Problems surfaced Feb. 8 when Buda City Manager Kenneth Williams was informed by Hays CISD its application to the EDC’s Incentive Task Force was turned down. Williams said in a Feb. 11 email the denial, along with Hays CISD’s application for incentives, was “news to me” as he didn’t recall emails sent by the EDC four months prior about the project. In September 2018, Hays CISD applied to the EDC seeking incentives to help fund construction of a $13.8 million water line leading to the new Buda Elementary school on Old San Antonio Road. According to Hays CISD officials, the new line addressed a dead-end in Buda’s water system. Williams said in the email Hays CISD officials were “puzzled” on being turned down. He also said he didn’t recall the ITF conducting a meeting “in months” to consider any new applications. However, Ann Miller, who was the Buda EDC executive director at the time of the Feb. 8 email conversation, said the water line project was discussed at an Oct. 3, 2018 ITF meeting. Taking part in that meeting, according to documents, was Miller, Williams, former Assistant City Manger Chance Sparks, current Assistant City Manager Micah Grau and former Buda EDC board member Joy Hart. According to sources, Williams requested at that Oct. 3, 2018 meeting
not to grade Hays CISD’s application based on a handful of unanswered legal issues surrounding the project. In a Feb. 15, 2019 letter to Buda city leaders and staff from the EDC board of directors, part of the issue stemmed from the need for Buda to annex the 14-acre tract the new elementary school is on to extend water service. In order for properties to receive city utilities, they must fall within the city limits. According to the letter, Hays CISD officials in 2018 petitioned for the city to voluntarily annex the property, but the city “did not forward that request to the city council” for action. In May and June 2018, Buda’s City Council approved annexations requested by Hays CISD, but did not address the tracts where Buda Elementary is located. Other questions included whether the district was required to have an 8-inch or 12-inch water line. EDC board members also had issues with the application not fitting within guidelines for incentives. According to Chapters 501 and 503 of the Texas Local Government Code, the EDC may only fund projects that create primary jobs or stimulate business growth. EDC board officials, many of whom were removed April 25, said in the letter that none of those issues were resolved when they discussed the project Oct. 3, 2018 and again during the Feb. 6 meeting. According to the EDC letter, board members were “a bit baffled” by the water line matter, as well as personnel issues raised by the city council and the city’s attorney relating to Miller. On May 3, Miller left
the EDC after the board released her from her contract citing a hostile work environment. However, on Feb. 20, Buda City Attorney George Hyde said in letter to the EDC the incident “brings clarity as to the level of dysfunction existing” in the EDC. Hyde said Williams did not recall the ITF holding a meeting in months regarding new applications. He added “it is no wonder with all the activities in the city” that Williams takes part in that he could not recall a meeting that took place four months prior. Other issues centered on Sparks saying Hays CISD complied with the annexation request but was “not annexed to allow time” for Hays County to address road repairs. “The annexation delay had no connection to water/wastewater service to the school in his view,” Hyde said in his letter. Hyde said the city council had “difficulty accepting the asserted justifications” presented in the EDC letter as a reason to “postpone an otherwise clearly permissible infrastructure projects” that would have been eligible for consideration by the ITF. A revised application was submitted by Hays CISD to the EDC but was not presented to the ITF and was not disclosed, Hyde said in his letter. Miller said in an email that the ITF in October 2018 left a decision on Hays CISD’s application up to the EDC board if they wanted to fund it as an infrastructure project. Miller said the EDC board discussed it multiple times in depth, but agreed that “pitting agencies against each other,” for funds was not the way to go, and the board wanted to avoid that issue.
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