August 10, 2022 Hays Free Press

AUGUST 10, 2022 KASZ BOARD PRESIDENT RETIRES

RAILHOUSE MARKET DAY DEBUT PAGE 9

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Vol. 128 • No. 22

Serving Hays County, TX

Ellison case deferred, resigns from council

BY ASHLEY KONTNIER

The recent resignation of Kyle City Council member Dexter “Dex” Ellison comes on the heels of at least one citation.

Ellison, whose term was set to expire in November, submitted his resignation July 25, 11 days after he was issued a citation for a violation involving sale of cigarettes or tobacco to a minor. According to municipal court records, the fine is $306 and, last week, the case was deferred for 90 days.

In a Kyle Police Department case report dated May 11, Ellison was a named suspect for an offense involving drug/narcotic violations.

The charge description is delivery of marijuana less than or equal to

Dex Ellison 1/4-ounce. According to the case report "CBD roll" containing THC that was given to involved party was seized. The report states the case was closed/ cleared July 14 with court referral.

Ellison was in his second term as District 1 council member and was up for reelection this year. Prior to serving on council, he served on the

Kyle Planning and Zoning commission.

In his resignation letter addressed to Jerry Hendrix and Paige Saenz, effective July 26, Ellison stated, “I want to personally thank you both for your service and dedication to the city I love.

“There have been great memories and even greater accomplishments I have seen from the City of Kyle staff. Please share my deepest gratitude and thanks with the staff as I have watched much of this staff work tirelessly since I began getting involved with various city initiatives nearly a decade ago. I want to sincerely thank the City of Kyle team for everything I was taught as a resident, P&Z Commissioner and a servant on the city council.

I would not have been

able to make the extremely difficult decisions, get the best out of myself and be there for this wonderful community if it wasn't for your service and teachings as well. There are truly so many amazing people in this organization and I will never forget the conversations and wisdom you all shared with me.

“I am extremely confident in this staff and what they will be able to do now and into the future.

“I sincerely feel the best way to assist in future efforts is to step away from my position and allow this staff and the remaining council to take on the challenging work and lead to the best of your abilities.

“Thank you for this

See ELLISON, page 10

HEROES MEMORIAL PARK POND FILLED

Use of city water questioned

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON KYLE — The use of city water to fill a 2.75 million gallon water pond at Heroes Memorial Park (HMP), the first phase of Kyle’s Brick and Mortar District, has raised concerns with residents, given the area’s extreme drought conditions.

Acting City Manager Jerry Hendrix said that HMP is designed to be a “fitting tribute” to the contributions and sacrifices of first responders and veterans.

Water is a critical element to the functioning and performance of the park; the design centers around several different water features.

According to city staff,

the decision to fill the pond was made in May under the direction of City Manager Scott Sellers, who is currently on administrative leave, following discussion to do so. Public works staff was apprised of the decision and directed to fill the pond.

The filling began on June 16 and continued for 45 days, ending on Aug. 1.

In response to an inquiry from the Hays Free Press, Director of Communications Rachel Sonnier relayed information gathered from several city departments.

“In an effort to protect the significant investment the citizens of Kyle had

See WATER, page 10

PLANNING AND ZONING DENIES PERSIMMON DEVELOPMENT

Buda council will decide next steps

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON BUDA — The development agreement for a hotly-debated mixeduse development was denied – but that does not necessarily stop it from being built.

During the Planning and Zoning meeting on July 26, the commission voted 5-0 to deny the MileStone Community Builders development agreement for the proposed Persimmon development, which would be located off FM 967 on the Bailey and Armbruster tracts of land.

Chair Jeffrey Cottrill and commissioner Matthew Wright were not present at the meeting.

The decision to deny the agreement received cheers and applause from the audience, as the development has been met with criticism from the community: Increased traffic in already congested areas, removal of trees

and wildlife, and potential impacts to the Edwards Aquifer transition zone the land sits on top of, name a few. Many feel it will threaten the livelihood of Buda’s residents and environment.

Persimmon totals 775 acres, with 349 acres being in the Bailey tract and 426 acres being in the Armbruster tract. There are 471 acres within the City of Buda ETJ (extraterritorial jurisdiction) and 302 acres within the City of Austin ETJ. Along with 2,800 single family homes, the development boasts an extensive connective trail network and other outdoor amenities, plus a minimum of 10 acres for retail. MileStone CEO Garrett Martin estimates that home prices will range from the $400s to the low millions, and maintains that 75% of signature trees and 85% of heritage trees would be preserved.

Persimmon has been in the works for around five years, since MileStone bought the land through a private acquisition, but was delayed due to transportation-related issues, which they were asked to find solutions.

Martin said that the backbone of the proposed $41 million transportation solution is a connection from 967 to 1626, something they have worked on over the last two years.

“We expanded dramatically [with] the land ownership,” Martin said. “We bought the Armbruster tract and added that into the development in order to facilitate and enable

a transportation solution for the region.”

Martin said that because phases 1 and 2 of the project would help fund the initial parts of phase 3, which includes the connector, completing phase 3 before 1 and 2 is not possible. Upwards of 325 homes could be built before the connector is completed, marking one of the biggest concerns for residents.

The July 26 meeting saw over a dozen residents speak during the public hearing portion on the item. This sort of public response isn’t new: many have come forward during both planning and zoning and city council meetings to express their disapproval of the project.

“In looking at the presentation, it’s evident that they have addressed greatly the quality of life for the people who will be living in there,” resident Robert Hesselbrock said. “My question is, at what cost to the quality of life of the adjacent communities?”

P&Z Vice Chairman Emily Jones, who has 25 years of experience in the construction development industry, said that this is one of the largest residential developments that Buda has seen and must be approached with “great care and attention.”

Jones said that this version of the agreement was submitted on July 20, giving development services staff about four to five working days to review the agreement before the meeting if they spent “every hour working on it.”

“My personal and professional opinion…is to put together a package

LWV PREPARES FOR UPCOMING ELECTION – PAGE 8

COURTESY OF MILESTONE/CITY OF BUDA

An overview of Persimmon, divided into the Armbruster Tract (left side) and Bailey Tract (right side). The development is also in different extraterritorial jurisdictions (Buda/Austin) and counties (Hays/Travis). that minimizes questions and objections as much as humanly possible,” Jones said. “A complete package should be hard to poke holes in, should be easy for everyone to follow the bouncing ball, and creates a sense of confidence in everybody that’s looking at it. This is not that scenario…There are parts that are incomplete, and it feels very pushed.”

Jones also noted that staff’s feedback said some

parts of the agreement were not clear or incomplete, and that many were left with questions that required more time to review and be answered.

Martin, however, said that this project brings “unequivocally more benefits than any other subdivision could be required to bring,” saying that it is a result of great give and take that's taken place over the years.

MileStone says they are

The Hays Free Press Barton Publications, Inc. 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.

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proactively going “much further than they are required” to ensure a project that benefits both the broader community and future residents.

“It’s a cornerstone of everything that’s asked for in the code from Buda and beyond,” Martin said. “A lot of the things you’ve heard tonight that are concerns have actually already been addressed, but because

See COUNCIL, page 10

Page 2

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 10, 2022

AVOID, DENY, DEFEND

Program preps people for active shooters

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

five CRASE instructors within KPD, all of whom have gone through the KYLE — It’s a scary and ALERRT training course uncomfortable reality to to teach the program. accept, but knowing what to do in the face of an active Businesses, hospitals, places of worship, shooter event could very community organizations easily help save your or and schools can all benefit someone else’s life. from the training.

The Kyle Police CRASE is structured Department is one of many as a four-hour program agencies that utilize the but can be tailored CRASE (Civilian Response depending on the needs to Active Shooter Events) of those participating, and program, designed and instructors will typically go built on the Avoid, Deny, Defend strategy developed to wherever you are to hold the training. Hernandez

by ALERRT (Advance said that there are no Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) in 2004. hands-on or practical exercises, but instead CRASE is completely utilizes PowerPoints and free and works to provide training videos. strategies, guidance and a Because these types of proven plan for surviving events start so quickly, law an active shooter event. enforcement might not The course examines the be able to be on the scene history and prevalence of for minutes — time that active shooter events and is vital. The ADD strategy covers various civilian is to avoid the attacker response options, medical and be aware of your issues and considerations surroundings, deny the for conducting drills. attacker access to yourself KPD Captain Pedro and victims by keeping Hernandez said there are

HAVING VISION PROBLEMS? IT COULD BE CATARACTS

distance and creating barriers, and defend yourself so you can survive when you can’t avoid or deny.

Hernandez noted that with one upcoming training they are doing, a medical component was added to the course. SelfAid Buddy Aid teaches people how to apply tourniquets, pack a wound, apply bandages and more.

Hernandez explained that in an active shooter event, law enforcement’s first priority is to stop the killing. As such, they might not be able to tend to the wounded right away, making these kinds of skills beneficial.

While the program does not have age restrictions, Hernandez said it is ultimately up to parents to deem what they feel is appropriate for their child. PowerPoint slides aren’t too graphic, but some audio or video used might be disturbing — for example, a 911 call from

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Members of the Kyle Chamber of Commerce received their annual CRASE training in October 2021 with KPD instructors Captain Hernandez, Sgt. Preston and Officer Plant. The program is ideal for businesses, organizations, and anyone who wants to feel more prepared in the face of an active shooter event. the 1999 Columbine High School shooting is used.

But in this day and age, these skills and knowledge are important to have on hand, just in case, no matter your age.

“Younger kids and teens should be introduced to this type of training in how

to survive,” Hernandez said, adding that the strategies taught can be applied to anyone in any place, not just active school shooter events.

If you are based in Kyle and interested in scheduling a time to take the CRASE program,

contact Captain Hernandez at phernandez@cityofkyle. com. If you are based in Buda, contact Community Affairs Officer Freddy Erdman at aerdman@ ci.buda.tx.us. For more helpful information, visit the ALERRT website at www.alerrt.org.

LIGHTS OUT, TEXAS

What to know about bird migration

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An IDA International Dark Sky Community is a town, city, municipality HAYS COUNTY – or other legally organized Dripping Springs and community that has shown Wimberley Valley are “exceptional dedication among the six areas in to the preservation of Texas that are classified as the night sky through certified International Dark the implementation and Sky Communities. enforcement of a quality To protect the billions outdoor lighting ordinance, of migratory birds that fly dark sky education and over the state annually, the citizen support of dark skies.” These communities Lights Out Texas campaign promote responsible is encouraging all residents PHOTO COURTESY OF AUDUBON TEXAS lighting and dark sky to turn off non-essential stewardship.

The start of the full migration period is coming up lights at night from 11 p.m.

Currently, the Dark Sky on Aug. 15. to 6 a.m. during the fall Communities in the state of migration period. But where Texas are Blanco, Dripping conflicts apply, lights out Springs, Fredericksburg, 400 birds in one night should be prioritized during occurred in Galveston – this and BirdCast in partnership Horseshoe Bay, Lakewood the critical peak migration with Houston Audubon, Village and Wimberley caused Houston Audubon periods. the Dallas Zoo and the Valley. and Galveston’s American Inspired by neighboring The full migration period National Insurance Perot Museum of Nature areas, Buda decided to will last from Aug. 15 to Nov. Company to start a Lights and Science. Later that year, 30 and the peak migration is Out for Birds program, Texan by Nature collaborated move forward with the designation process in from Sept. 5 to Oct. 29. utilizing BirdCast migration with several organizations to 2018. An ordinance change expand the program at the forecasts maps. related to lighting still needs statewide level.

LIGHTS OUT TEXAS The Lights Out Texas to be established to meet HISTORY program was originally the standards – the city is INTERNATIONAL DARK In 2017, a major bird launched in 2020 by the close to becoming an official collision that killed nearly Cornell Lab of Ornithology SKY COMMUNITIES Dark Sky Community.

VISITBUDA.COM

WATER INTO WINE

Buda senior community visits winery STAFF REPORT

summer.

“It was an interesting and fun process,” said Rita BUDA – Buda Oaks Assisted Living and Memory Waters, Buda Oaks resident.

“We learned about the Care residents can’t wait to process of winemaking, taste and share the fruits of then created our own batch. their labor.

We even designed our own Earlier this year, the custom bottle label.” senior community visited Their creation is now local winery, Water 2 Wine. ready to bottle – the customAfter working to craft the PHOTO COURTESY OF BUDA OAKS best batch, residents waited made product was designed by the community’s sousfor the wine to ferment Buda Oaks residents helped design their own chef, Erliz Maddox. and be ready to drink this logo for the wine. (Photo courtesy of Buda Oaks)

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Rita Waters, a resident at Buda Oaks, was instrumental in helping craft the batch for her community.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 10, 2022

Page 3

SCHOOL SAFETY

Hays CISD Board approves additional SROs

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

the Hays County Sheriff’s Office in numerous capacities, including HAYS COUNTY – managing the SRO program The Hays CISD Board for the county’s school of Trustees discussed districts and using full-time upcoming school safety sheriff’s deputies for school and security measures safety. Skrocki is also a during a special meeting on certified Mental Health Aug. 4.

Peace Officer.

In a 7-0 vote, the board Skrocki gave a approved the purchase of presentation on new student ID card supplies security protocols and from Secured Mobility, dba procedures. During the SMART Tag, the addition presentation, she talked of three school resource about the district’s officers (SRO) and a reunification plan. resolution to provide paid “We’ve already sick leave as it relates to the predetermined COVID-19 pandemic. reunification site locations.

The board also approved We have literally down Jeri Skrocki as the new to how many cones and Head of District Safety and barricades we need at Security. Skrocki began that site, and we have her career with the Hays an interlocal agreement County Sheriff’s Office in with our sister schools, 1989 and has worked in including transportation

and how we’re going to function that,” Skrocki said.

According to Skrocki, the state has also required weekly reports of every single exterior door in every building with student instruction. Skrocki said she’s been working with Deputy Academic Officers, and they’ve got a “process” in place to where they will be looking at that. Skrocki said the weekly reports will be “extremely important” because the Texas Schools and Safety Center will require them to have written documentation to prove that they have done them.

“It’s going to be another burden on our staff, but I feel confident that we can get it down into a workable situation where we don’t tax people as much as we

possibly can,” Skrocki said.

The board also discussed cell phones during the school day. “[Cell phones] cause problems all the time,” Skrocki said.

She added that she thinks it’s time for students to disengage from cell phones and focus on what’s going on inside the classroom.

Although he supports no cell phones during instruction periods, Trustee Byron Severance thinks it will be challenging to enforce. Board Secretary Esperanza Orosco said that as long as they set the expectations and follow through, it will “eventually work itself out.”

“It is a shift in mindset, but based on the safety and the things that we were encountering last year with

kids being able to text ‘I’ve got something I need to get rid of,’ ‘Hey so and so is coming to meet me in this bathroom I’ll hand it off to you,’ those types of things were actually occurring, so it’s for the safety of the campus,” said Jesus Gomez, Deputy Academic Officer.

Parent Jodi Gonzalez’s youngest child is going into 6th grade this year and is scared to go to school.

Regarding the board’s phone policy, Gonzalez doesn’t see “what the big deal is.”

“Those kids in Uvalde, they had their phones, they got to say goodbye to their parents, they got to call for help,” Gonzalez said. “My son said, ‘Mom, what if someone comes to shoot me and I can’t tell you I love you,’” she said.

Although he does not have a phone right now, Gonzalez said they are working on getting him one because it makes him feel safer.

“If the worst thing happened, I would want my kids to be able to do something,” Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez also said she worries about kids with special needs. She would like the board to acknowledge that there is a large number of students on 504 accommodation plans. She said many kids need to wear earbuds during class because they cannot focus without them.

“My child, in particular, cannot take a test like the STAAR test without earbuds because he has ADHD,” Gonzalez said.

half since the first class, and I was able to do some inspections, but I had to work with the troopers.

Once you are training certified, you have to do 64 inspections, and you have

to do them with somebody already fully certified."

Vehicles pulled over by the new unit will be inspected for a variety of certifications, such as tire condition, light

functionality, brake line leaks, cargo weight and more. New equipment such as portable scales that can be transported via

POLICE

Kyle launches new unit

BY CJ VETTER KYLE - The Kyle Police Department has recently launched a new commercial vehicle enforcement unit with the goal of protecting drivers from unsafe commercial vehicles. This is in part a response to the growing number of commercial trucks being used in and around Kyle due to the growth of the city.

If not properly maintained, a car can be a hazard to the driver, their passengers and their fellow travelers on the road. But the same also applies to the numerous commercial vehicles in use all around us, ranging from work vans to the massive 18-wheeler trucks that drive down I-35 every day. When commercial vehicles’ lack of maintenance catches up to them, the results can be even more dangerous. This is where the CVE steps in.

"Commercial vehicles are vital to the growth of our community, but often

commercial vehicle drivers violate operational and equipment laws creating a risk to other motorists on the road as well as damaging the roadways,” said Tracy Vrana, Traffic Enforcement Division supervisor sergeant.

“We hope this unit will deter and prevent unsafe commercial vehicle practices and ultimately the accidents that result from them.”

Officer Matt Clark, a member of the unit, was one of the first officers to be selected to join the unit. His training began in Austin, and took four weeks

to accomplish, followed by a series of monitored inspections where he was observed by an alreadycertified individual, before finally being able to inspect vehicles on his own.

“It really all started around March of 2020, and there was a lot of paperwork with DPS and TxDOT, and then in March of 2021, we were ready to go, so we could attend training at the DPS in Austin,” Clark said. "It was four weeks of training I went through, then three different parts, and then the weight training. It’s been about a year and a

Inferno, 2-year-old, Labrador Retriever mix, male Inferno was found at a fire station and lived with the firefighters for a few weeks before being brought to PAWS. He has done well with all dogs he has met.

See CVE, page 5

Delaney, 2-year-old, Domestic Shorthair mix, male: Delaney is an affectionate love bug who wants pets and doesn’t mind asking for them. He is best friends with another cat at PAWS named Tabitha. He can often be found grooming.

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ACROSS

1 TXism: “wearing nothing ___ _ smile” (naked) 5 TXism: “happy as _ ___ in a candy store” 6 Big ____ National Park 7 “do it or ____!”

8 LLano is the “____ _______ __ Texas” 18 TXism: “___ rattle your teeth!” (threat) 19 an area in Texas (2 wds.)

21 __ Leon, TX 22 TXism: “the ____ is wagging the dog” 23 former A&M basketball coach, Tony (1991-98) 24 TXism: “______ calf rope” (quit) 29 saddle ____ 30 ____ Pictures made “Walker, TX Ranger” 31 Cowboy Dave who was head Bear (init.)

32 TXism: “couldn’t drive _ ___ ___ _ snow bank” (incompetent) 34 TXism: “____ a fancy to” (attracted) 35 this Ames played “Mingo” (init.)

36 Austin politicos 37 TXism: “chew the fat” 38 this Keenan was Digger on “Dallas” 40 hit with a gun (hyph.)

42 the “Wink Sink,” “Kermit Crater,” or “Guacamole _____” 43 Oklahoma town

44 he killed a rare albino buffalo near Snyder 45 hunt for food 46 TX town or Bible garden 47 TXism: “not _____ _ ___ nickle” (no value) 49 tiered 50 news net. on cable 51 “shop ‘__ you drop” 52 dir. to Eden from Ozona 53 Lake El Sal de ___ (“The King’s Salt) 24

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TEXAS CROSSWORD

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by Charley & Guy Orbison

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Copyright 2022 by Orbison Bros.

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16 “bear in Spanish” 17 TXism: “couldn’t ____ __ ___ under a sitting hen” (dumb) 20 __ Braunfels, TX 22 driving 50 mph on a 75 mph road (2 wds.)

24 TX country singer Ketchum 25 TXism: “fits like 29 scales __ _ fish” 26 TX Dan Morales is a Harvard ___ 30 School graduate 27 Emmitt Smith often 33 _____ off the field 34 28 Steinbeck’s wife from Texas

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35 once a town south of Texarkana 52 37 Crystal City has a statue of cartoon 53 _______ Popeye 38 in San Antonio: Sea _____ 39 TX poet Naomi longtime South Shihab ___ Carolina senator, 41 TXism: “pulled the Thurman ____ over his eyes” “Dallas” was prime 42 “____ for the best” time ___ opera 43 TXism: “cut __ take home pay some slack” age of Sam Houston 45 TXism: “a __ piece” when he settled in 48 “Eagles” drummer Texas (hyph.) from Texas, Don 51

See solutions on page 6

Hays Free Press

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46 1 TX female athlete Zaharias (2 wds.)

2 instrument played

by TX Ginger Rogers 3 Christmas tree decoration 4 viper 9 this Driscoll was the “Savior of the Alamo” 10 Washington wasn’t a Texan cause he couldn’t “tell _ ___” 11 TXism: “compadre” 12 “__ for a penny . . .”

13 TXism for “also” (2 wds.)

14 TXism: “scarce as a wildcatter with _ ____ balance” 15 TX pro football Hall-of-Famer Yale

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Call us with news or feature ideas!

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Opinion Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 10, 2022

Page 4

STATE

Drivers urged to be alert as school begins Millions of Texas children are heading back to school this month, as early as this week in some districts. The Texas Department of Transportation urges drivers to be especially alert and focused when driving in school zones and near bus stops.

Drivers are further reminded that a new Texas law requires drivers to stop and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, according to TxDOT. The Lisa Torry Smith Act is named after a young mother killed in Missouri City in a crosswalk as she walked her son to school. The driver received a $50 fine for failing to yield, according to numerous media reports.

Now it’s a crime punishable with up to two years in prison.

EX-TRUCKING OWNER CHARGED WITH INSURANCE FRAUD

The former co-owner of Bill Hall Jr. Trucking in Bexar County has been indicted in Travis County for fraud in an alleged scheme to get lower workers compensation insurance premiums by concealing payroll reports. A Texas Department of Insurance news release said the plot allowed the

WILDFIRE DANGERS CONTINUE IN THE DOG DAYS

“Federally Qualified Health Centers are a valuable support Capital for people who need essential As the summer heat and dry medical care but live in areas Highlights conditions persist, so does the where resources are scarce and

by Gary Borders danger of wildfire. The Texas A&M access can be challenging,” Forest Service reported 10 active said State Sen. Robert Nichols, wildfires across the state as of R-Jacksonville. “Once they are up company to avoid more than $9 Sunday. The largest fire at 3,323 and running, they operate without million in premium payments. acres in Throckmorton County local or state financial support.

Francis Hall, the former cowas 90% contained. The Big Sky These grants are intended to owner along with her husband, Fire in Gillespie County had bridge the gap between startwas previously convicted of consumed 1,459 acres and was up cost and full certification to murder in 2016 for knocking her also 90% contained. enable the program to expand in husband’s motorcycle off the road Burn bans are now in force in Texas.” in 2013 with her Cadillac Escalade 225 Texas counties, according Open enrollment is available as she chased his lover, who to the forest service. Only El until Dec. 31 or until program was in another vehicle, on the Paso County and a portion of funding is exhausted. More same stretch of Loop 1604 in San neighboring Hudspeth County are information is available on the Antonio. She claimed it was an not under some level of drought DSHS website: dshs.texas.gov. accident, and the jury gave her the throughout the entire state. shortest possible sentence in that TRAVEL INDUSTRY ELIGIBLE case. She was released two years later in 2018, according to the San HEALTH CENTER GRANTS FOR COVID-19 GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR UNDERSERVED Antonio Express-News.

More funding from the federal COMMUNITIES Fraud investigators with TDI American Rescue Plan Act will The Texas Department of State claim that between 2009 and soon be headed toward entities Health Services is seeking grant 2016, “Hall allegedly provided tied to travel and tourism which false payroll information to Texas applications for $20 million were adversely affected by the dedicated to health centers in Mutual Insurance Company and COVID-19 pandemic. That areas where resources are scarce concealed payroll reports to get includes arts entities, according to and access to adequate health lower insurance premiums on the Texas Commission on the Arts. care can be challenging. The their extensive gravel hauling The program, operated by the funding came from the federal business.”

Governor’s Office of Economic If convicted, Hall could face life American Rescue Plan Act, and Development & Tourism, provides in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. the Texas Legislature approved one-time grants of up to $20,000 funneling it to federally qualified She is currently free on bond. to eligible Texas businesses and health centers (FQHC). non-profits that experienced an

economic loss due to COVID-19.

The $180 million dedicated to the grant program to aid in the recovery of Texas tourism, travel and the hospitality industry was authorized in the last regular legislative session.

More information can be found here: https://tinyurl. com/3244psej.

NEW COVID-19 CASES UP SLIGHTLY

The number of new COVID-19 cases in Texas during the past week rose slightly to 78,845, with 244 deaths reported by the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University. DSHS reports 3,490 lab-confirmed COVID-19 hospitalizations, a slight drop from the previous week.

DSHS also reports 17.9 million Texans are fully vaccinated, or 60.6% of the state’s population, while 7.3 million have received at least one booster shot.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist.

He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress.com.

Jackson sends “Scamp” to buy back Texas

Col. Anthony Butler walked out of the White House on Aug. 13, 1829 with a seven-figure line of credit and secret lnstructions to make the Mexicans an offer they could not refuse.

Andrew Jackson considered the Rio Grande realm as “lost” territory, a legitimate part of the Louisiana Purchase that the Monroe Administration had seen fit to surrender to Spain. Five months into his presidency, he decided to buy Texas back and settled on five million dollars as a fair price.

While pondering

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Butler had nothing to show in August 1833 for four Texas years south of the border.

History Realizing his superior was a sucker for inflated promises,

by Bartee Haile he swore, “I will succeed in uniting Texas to our country before I am done or will possible pitchmen, Old forfeit my head.” Practically Hickory remembered the salivating at the prospect, cocky Carolinian who had Jackson replied, “If you expressed enthusiasm for succeed it will be a feather the venture. Impressed by in your cap.”

Anthony Butler’s firsthand When Old Hickory began knowledge of Texas and to question the propriety of his can-do confidence, paying off foreign officials, the president gave him the the third-rate envoy assignment. delivered a condescending Jackson could not have lecture. “How little you made a worse choice. know of Mexican character!

His new charge d’affaires I can assure you, sir, that in Mexico City was a bribery is not only common diplomatic tenderfoot, and familiar in all ranks and whose ignorance of classes but freely spoken of.” the country, culture Butler picked the wrong and language was an president to patronize and embarrassment. On the personal side, according to a was promptly punished with a notice of recall. He not reputable historian, he was only ignored the summons “a bully and swashbuckler but countered with a lameopenly scandalous in his brained scheme for the conduct and a national military seizure of the prize disgrace.”

The Mexicans had Butler’s that had exceeded his grasp.

Jackson could not believe number from the start. The government controlled press exposed his hidden agenda and scornfully dismissed as a national insult the pittance he was prepared to pay for the northernmost province.

Although Jackson later disavowed bribery as a diplomatic tool, his original orders sanctioned the practice. The president candidly confided to Butler that he “scarcely ever knew a Spaniard who was not the slave of avarice, and it is not improbable that this weakness may be worth a great deal to us.” The emissary concurred with his boss’ assessment calling the Mexicans “selfish, corrupt, utterly unprincipled” and adding, “Any of them may be successfully appealed to through their cupidity.”

But for all his big talk,

his eyes, when he read the preposterous plan. “If you will withdraw me from this place and make the movement to possess that part of Texas which is ours placing me at the head of the country to be occupied, I will pledge my head that we will have all we desire in less than six months.”

“A. Butler: What a scamp!” the president scribbled in the margin of the incredible communication and reiterated his desire to have the loose cannon recalled “at once.”

For leading Texans the removal of Butler could not have come too soon.

“Such men as he is would destroy a country,” snorted a disgusted Sam Houston, “but take my word for it, he will never gain one!”

“I have never known so bad and base a man,” complained Stephen F. Austin, whose two-year Mexican detention was due in part to the diplomat’s petty refusal to intercede on

his behalf. Butler did not lift a finger to free Austin because imprisonment was an effective way to silence the influential colonizer he considered his chief critic.

Butler finally returned to Washington in June 1835 but not with his tail between his legs. To prove that money truly did talk in Mexico, he brought a letter from Father Ignacio Hernandez, a member of Santa Anna’s inner circle.

For half a million dollars, the priest promised to pull the strings that would make Texas the property of the United States.

“Plausible denial” may have been what the president had in mind, when he recorded his opposition to the arrangement right on the Hernandez document. If Jackson wanted no part of the shady deal, why did he let Butler keep his job?

Even after the Texas Revolution was well underway, Butler refused to give up on his pipe dream.

He kept stalling for time until the very day of his replacement in January 1836 and hung around Mexico City until the month after the Battle of San Jacinto.

Butler settled in the new Republic and actually persuaded a sufficient number of voters to grant him a seat in the Third Congress. His constituents must have seen through his smoke-and-mirrors routine because they denied him a second term.

On the one occasion Anthony Butler put the interests of others above his own, he got himself killed.

In 1849 he died a hero on the Mississippi River trying to save passengers from a fire aboard a blazing steamboat.

“Unforgettable Texans” brings to life the once famous people no one remembers today. Order your copy for $24.00 (tax and shipping included) by mailing a check to Bartee Haile, P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393.

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 10, 2022

Page 5

OBITUARIES WILLIAM CHARLES MOOS

Bill is preceded in death by his loving wife, Ann Halliburon Moos, father, John William Charles Moos H. Moos, Sr. mother, of Kyle, passed away at Maxine Whisenant his home on Aug. 1, 2022 Sachs, brothers, John in Kyle, Texas.

H. Moos, Jr. and Al W. Bill was born on Sept. Sachs, Jr. Bill is survived 20, 1945, in Uvalde to by his children, Sheri John H. Moos, Sr. and Hofmann Moos, Alisa Maxine Whisenant Moos, Stephen Lindsey, Moos. He attended Thomas Lindsey high school at William and wife Michelle, B. Travis High School sister, Cheryl Morgan. in Austin, served in the Grandchildren, Desiree military and worked as Lightsey, Wade Ellis, an Ironworker.

Amber Uola, Logan Bill was married to Lindsey, Shyann Lindsey Ann Halliburton Moos and Jared Lindsey, for over 50 years. Bill and Morgan Herraez, Megan Ann made their home Johnson, Cassidy in Kyle for 40 years. They Oates and MacKenzie were surrounded by Hofmann. He was a wonderful neighbors great-grandfather to 12. and blessed with lasting Services will be held at friendships throughout Wimberley Cemetery at life.

11 a.m. Friday, Aug., 19.

HFP FILE PHOTO

Larry Simone, fourth from left, with other members of KASZ (Le Duran, Dawn Conley, Kathy Carpenter, Betty Conley and Ellen Ermis) with their fundraising goal tracker for a senior activity center in February 2022. Simone has been instrumental in engaging with the community with projects like this around Kyle.

‘DON’T BE IDLE IN KYLE’

KASZ board president retires

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

mainly on social programs to an organization engaged in the community with KYLE — Larry Simone, service projects. the KASZ (Kyle Area Senior After several council Zone) board president, members thanked Simone announced during the Kyle for his service, Simone City Council meeting on expressed his love for Kyle, Aug. 2 that he is leaving the saying his new slogan is position after nearly four “don’t be idle in Kyle.” years.

One major project he has Simone has been praised been at the helm of is a for bringing KASZ from proposed 35,000 squarean organization focused foot activity center off

Creekside Trail with space for other organizations to utilize, bringing the younger community together with the older community.

“The seniors in Kyle don’t want to be idle,” Simone said. “The day they took us to Linebarger and showed us that lake, ducks were landing, kids were at recess, and we were sitting there saying,

‘this is heaven on earth for seniors.’”

Simone’s passion has undoubtedly helped energize Kyle’s older adult community, continuing the dream of Adell Hurst, founder of KASZ, and opened communication between the city and KASZ for this activity center.

Current KASZ Vice President Betty Conley will take over as president.

"Sometimes you'll kick tires, and they'll look sturdy, but they'll jiggle like Jell-O,” Clark said. "We've found some that we've stopped that have had the axles slanted, where the trucks look like it’s going sideways down the road."

Other things CVE unit officers will also be looking for will be certified truck drivers licenses, out-of-operation hours working, and improper transportation of hazardous

materials. While CVE officers are allowed to issue citations for violations, their focus will be more the proper maintenance and operation of vehicles.

"We’re not stopping people to harass them, though they feel like you might. We take our time and talk to them and explain why we’re doing this,” Clark said. “We are doing this for the safety of the public.”

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We are expanding!

CVE, from page 3 patrol vehicle help officers of the unit find violations anywhere, anytime. When violations are found, the penalty can range anywhere from $200, all the way up to the thousands of dollars.

"I can't speak for all the drivers, and we've come across vehicles in great shape, but there are those who cut corners,” Clark said. "There are definitely some companies that understand that, and they

say they won't hire these drivers, but they'll hire [drivers] regardless."

Violations can range from minor infractions, such as loose lugnuts around bolts or a lack of fire extinguishers on board the vehicle, but others can reach extreme levels, such as having leaking brake lines, broken lights, or even missing tires. Even weight violations can be dangerous, as overweight trucks can damage roads.

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Monte del Olivar Christian Center 2400 FM 150 E., Kyle

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The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

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Texas Crossword Solution H O L L A N A I L AWM P M E E D

E L A I N E

B A B E D I D R I K S O N

U K E L E L E

T I N S E L

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Last Puzzle Solution A P I T A L A N O B I L B A E S O N T OO K C H A T H I P H A R F O R T H A P A Y E R E C N N T I L E N E R E Y

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S-1597

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Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda

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A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161 Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m.

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Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda

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9:30 a.m. Classic Service 10:45 a.m. Contemporary service

Hays Free Press

Completed & Perfected Faith Church Tobias Elementary Cafeteria, FM 150, Kyle

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Page 6

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 10, 2022

JOBS OPEN IN KYLE

HEALTH RESOURCES

Various city positions remain unfilled

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

road without a solid plan, and today I did not hear a solid plan,” Flores-Cale KYLE — A number of said. “I’ve heard the same unfilled positions in the thing I’ve heard for the last city of Kyle have led some year.” to question what is being Acting City Manager Jerry done to ensure they are Hendrix said that dozens of filled in order to meet the people have applied for the needs of the city. planning director position The item was brought forward by council member specifically, but like when hiring for other positions, Yvonne Flores-Cale, who the city “doesn’t settle.” shared her concerns “We wait until we find that the library director, that person that's going economic development director and chief building to come in and help us achieve that gold standard inspector positions — in leading that position, which make up “a third of the city’s leadership” — are and for me, meet those currently unfilled. The city’s core [“K.Y.L.E”] values,” Hendrix said. “I know it’s planning director position frustrating when it takes has also remained unfilled longer than what you for nearly a year. would like, but I think we Flores-Cale said that there is no way the city can have a pretty good track record of hiring quality grow the way that it does staff, especially department without someone leading heads, and that’s our goal these important positions. moving forward,” adding “I have a real fear that that he believes they need we’re going to put a lot to be “more nimble” in how of stress on staff if we continue to go down this offers are made and how

qualified applicants are considered.

Hendrix said that city positions are advertised in various ways, and that they utilize job search engines such as Indeed, professional organizations and career fairs, but he and other council members also acknowledged that the job market is simply challenging right now.

“Even though people say ‘everybody’s hiring,’ not everybody has the same expertise as what we’re looking for. That’s something that we need to keep in mind,” said council member Michael Tobias, with council member Daniela Parsley later saying she believes it’s “even harder” to hire the type of staff the city is needing as there are other cities around who also have these needs.

Mayor Travis Mitchell noted that council, as a legislative body, also

has the power to greatly influence the hiring process, as they can impact wages and benefits.

“I have a lot of confidence that you will fill those positions in the time that you think is appropriate, not necessarily in the time that I individually think is appropriate. I know you’re weighing a lot of different factors,” Mitchell told Hendrix. “There’s no one more qualified and has more experience hiring department heads and leadership in the city of Kyle. He has more experience and knowledge in these matters than this dais put together, times ten.”

Those interested in working for the city of Kyle or who know someone who might be, visit www.cityofkyle.com/ humanresources/hiringteam-kyle for a list of open positions.

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Local health department kicks off vaccine forums STAFF REPORT

Farmworker Health (NCFH), Hays Latinos United and Mano Amiga.

HAYS COUNTY= – As “Hays County Local part of its new Healthy Health Department wants Hays Forum Series, the Hays County Local Health to help the community be educated about which Department (HCLHD) vaccines your child needs will host Immunization over the years and how and Vaccine Community these vaccines really do Forums on August 18 (in Spanish) and August 25 help protect your child,” (in English) at Gemstone said Matthew Gonzales, Palace at 1101 Bunton Health Equity and Creek Rd in Kyle.

Community Engagement Local pediatricians Program Manager. “We and epidemiologists will look forward to hosting share information on the more events like this in importance of vaccines the future and to being a and respond to questions resource for the people of from the public.

Hays County.”

The HCLHD plans • Both events will run to host at least one from 5:30 p.m. to 7:45 community forum p.m. covering a different topic • The events are comeeach month. Upcoming and-go style from 5:30 topics include Hispanic/ p.m. to 6:15 p.m.

Latino health and sexual • The presentation is health. Future forums from 6:15 p.m.to 7:15 p.m. will be held in different • Then, it’s come-andlocations. go from 7:15 p.m. to 7:45 For more information p.m. about the health Attendees are forums, visit the encouraged to explore Hays County Local the local community Health Department's health resources on display during the events Facebook page, https:// www.facebook.com/ including Hays County Local Health Department, HaysCountyLocal HealthDepartment/ Community Emergency or contact Community Response Team (CERT), Outreach Specialist CommuniCare, Austin Austin Baier at austin.

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Page 7

PUBLIC NOTICES ATTEMPT TO NOTIFY COMMERCIAL TOWING SERVICES LLC 228 A-Edwards Dr. Kyle, TX 78640 / 512-9950468/0654460VSF www.tdlr.texas.gov 2000 Jeep Cherokee/ Last of VIN YL211817 Total charges as of 8/9/2022 are $664.24

ATTEMPT TO NOTIFY COMMERCIAL TOWING SERVICES LLC 271 Millennium Dr. Kyle, TX 78640 / 512-995-0468/ 0658494VSF www.tdlr.texas.gov 2020 Ford AER0MASTER/ Last of VIN L0A14954 Total charges as of 8/3/2022 are $1321.94

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Sale of property to satisfy a landlord’s lien.

Sale to be held online at https://storageauctions.com.

Wimberley Smart Storage is located at 706 FM 2325, Wimberley, TX 78676. Bidding will open 8/15/22 at 12am and conclude at 8/29/22 at 12pm.

Cleanup deposit is required.

Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time Before the sale. Unit items sold as-is to the highest bidder.

Property includes the contents of space of the following tenant: Nazdesta Company Unit 42

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that Original Letters of Testamentary for the Estate of Lynn R. Kimrey, Deceased, were issued on the 3rd day of August, 2022, in Cause No. 22-0281-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to Pamela Gill Kimrey, Independent Executor of the Estate of Lynn R. Kimrey.

David H. Morris Morris & Wise Attorneys at Law 1921 Corporate Drive, Ste. 102 San Marcos, Texas 78666 All persons having claims against this Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present themselves within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

DATED this the 8th day of August, 2022.

Respectfully submitted, /s/ David Morris DAVID H. MORRIS State Bar No. 14476600 Morris and Wise Attorneys At Law 1921 Corporate Drive, Ste. 102 San Marcos, Texas 78666 (512)396-7525 (512)3967599 FAX david@morrisandwise.com

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE In accordance with the provisions of State of Texas law, there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to safety an owner and/or manager's lien of the goods hereinafter described and stored at the Storage King USA location(s) listed below, and, due notice having been given to the owner of said property and all parties known to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired goods will be sold to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of at a public Auction to be held online at www.StorageTreasures.com, which will end on August 25, 2022 at 9:00AM. At store 072, 19580 S IH 35, Kyle TX 78640,

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Luis Davila: furn/shop vac/ boxes Alice Dominguez, boxes/ clothes/mini fridge, Bianca Rivera:tools/tool chest/autoshop misc., Mary Hudson: furn/boxes, Christopher Mercer: duffel/ boxs/sm tv.

Shelma Banke: sofa/tires/ totes, Glenda Castro: furn/boxes/ misc., Ruben Contreras: toys/app/ furn/boxes, Ruby Romo: totes/ ladder, Yovany Daniel Ajuchan Gomez: furn/boxes, Dorothy Crayton: toes/clothes/misc, Jessica Kelsey: furn/boxes/ luggage, Alexis Molina: sofa/ washer/misc.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS REQUEST FOR STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS RSQ# 22-146 2021 BOND PROGRAM PROJECTS • West Goforth Road Reconstruction Project • Old Black Colony Road Reconstruction Project Sealed statements will be received by the Purchasing Manager of the City of Buda for the above referenced solicitation.

The City presents this RSQ to solicit interest from prospective entities that are qualified to provide planning, design, and construction phase services for the West Goforth Road Reconstruction and Old Black Colony Road Reconstruction projects.

The RSQ outlines the process to be used by the City to select competent entities from which the City may negotiate contracts for professional services necessary to assist the City of Buda in the development of schematics, final design, and construction services for the reconstruction projects.

The projects may be funded whole or in part with federal grant resources and thus may be subject to the requirements of 2 CFR 200 and other federal procurement requirements.

The solicitation package may be obtained online at one of the following bid services: www.publicpurchase.com www.bidnetdirect.com Statements shall be delivered in a sealed envelope to City of Buda, City Hall Purchasing Bid Box, 405 E. Loop St., Bldg. 100, Buda, Texas 78610. Write “SEALED STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS” with the RSQ Number, Name, and Due Date on the outside of the shipping package.

Statements will be accepted until 2:00 p.m., September 1, 2022.

Questions may be directed to the City of Buda Purchasing Office via email at purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us Charles Oberrender, CPPB Purchasing Manager City of Buda

REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSALS RCSP # 22-150 CONSTRUCTION OF CITY PARK REWORK Competitive sealed proposals will be received by the Purchasing Manager of the City of Buda for the above referenced solicitation. The City is seeking to enter a contract with a qualified contractor for furnishing all labor, materials and equipment for the project.

Project includes but is not

limited to the replacement of deficient material in various electrical, plumbing, amphitheater, restrooms, landscape and irrigation systems.

A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held at Buda City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Buda, Texas 78610 at 2 PM, September 8, 2022 in Multipurpose Room 1034.

Proposals shall be delivered to City of Buda City Hall, Attn: Purchasing Proposal Box, 405 E. Loop St., Bldg. 100, Buda, Texas 78610. Write “SEALED PROPOSAL” with the Solicitation Number, Solicitation Name, and Due Date on the outside of the shipping package. Proposals will be accepted until 2 PM, September 26, 2022. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible offeror or offeror that provides the best value.

All proposals shall be accompanied a proposal bond in the in the amount of 5% of the offeror’s maximum proposal price.

Contract documents including proposal forms, plans sheets, and specifications for the Project may be viewed and downloaded at: www.questCDN.com www.proposalnet.com www.publicpurchase.com An acceptable proposal bond in an amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total proposal shall accompany each proposal as a guaranty that, if awarded the contract, the offeror will promptly enter contract with the City of Buda and furnish bonds on the forms provided.

Offerors are expected to inspect the site of the work and to inform themselves of all local conditions. The successful offeror or offerors will be required to furnish a performance bond, payment bond, and maintenance bond as stipulated in the specifications.

Questions may be directed to the City of Buda Purchasing Office via email at purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us Charles Oberrender, CPPB Purchasing Manager City of Buda

INVITATION FOR BIDS IFB # 22-149 RM 967 SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS ONION CREEK BRIDGE TO MAIN STREET Sealed bids will be received

by the Purchasing Manager of the City of Buda for the above referenced solicitation.

The City is seeking to enter a contract with a qualified contractor for furnishing all labor, materials and equipment for the project. Project includes the construction of approximately 1,500 linear feet of concrete sidewalk, curb ramps, relocation of traffic signs, and pavement markings.

A non-mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at Buda City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Buda, Texas 78610 at 2 PM, August 24, 2022 in Multipurpose Room 1034.

Bids shall be delivered to City of Buda City Hall, Attn: Purchasing Bid Box, 405 E. Loop St., Bldg. 100, Buda, Texas 78610. Write “SEALED BID” with the Bid Number, Bid Name, and Due Date on the outside of the shipping package. Bids will be accepted until 2 PM, September 7, 2022.

The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or bidder that provides the best value.

All bids shall be accompanied a bid bond in the in the amount of 5% of the bidder’s maximum bid price.

Contract documents including bid proposal forms, plans sheets, and specifications for the Project may be viewed and downloaded free of charge (with the option to purchase hard copies) at www.civcastusa.com on or after Wednesday August 10, 2022. Scanned plans and specifications (PDF format) are available on CD for a non-refundable price of $25.00 from KSA Engineers, Inc., 4833 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 204, Austin, Texas 78759, telephone 512-3426868. Printed copies of the Contract Documents may also be viewed at the Engineer’s office. The solicitation package with plans and specifications are further available electronically at www.bidnet.com and www.publicpurchase.com

Sundays, and legal holidays.

The successful bidder or bidders will be required to furnish a performance bond, payment bond, and maintenance bond as stipulated in the specifications. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for at least ninety (90) calendar days.

The city reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids, waive any and/or all formalities, and award the bid as it appears most beneficial to the City of Buda.

AT THE INTERSECTION WITH A NEW SCHOOL “ENTRANCE-ONLY” DRIVE.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF CYNTHIA BUZEK NORRIS (aka “Cynthia Norris,” “Cynthia B. Norris,” “Cynthia Buzek,” “Cynthia Gaye Buzek,” and “Cynthia Gaye Buzek Norris”) as Independent Executor of the Estate of MAXINE PASTOR JOHNSON (AKA “Maxine Mary Pastor” and “Maxine Pastor Buzek”), Deceased.

Pending in the Hays County Court at Law No. 2, Hays County, Texas Cause No. 220302-P.

Questions may be directed to the City of Buda Purchasing Office via email at purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ABOVE ESTATE: WHEREAS, on the 1st day of August, 2022, in the Hays County Court at Law No. 2, Hays County, Texas, the undersigned duly qualified as the Independent Executor of the Estate of MAXINE PASTOR JOHNSON, 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: CYNTHIA BUZEK NORRIS,

Charles Oberrender, CPPB Purchasing Manager City of Buda

PUBLIC NOTICE By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on Tuesday, August 16, 2022 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: ESTABLISHING A 4-WAY STOP LOCATION: ¬ ON VISTA GARDENS DRIVE AT THE INTERSECTION WITH PARKROSE DRIVE. ¬ ON SUNBRIGHT BLVD AT THE INTERSECTION WITH VISTA GARDENS DRIVE. ESTABLISHING A 2-WAY STOP LOCATION: ¬ ON SUNBRIGHT BLVD

Independent Executor of the Estate of MAXINE PASTOR JOHNSON, Deceased, in care of her attorney,

NEED EXTRA CASH!!!??? $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ I BUY RV S & $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ MOBILE HOME S $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ Travel Trailers 5th Wheels $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ Goosenecks Bumper Pulls $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ A n y w h e r e i n Te x a s ! ! ! A n y C o n d i t i o n ! ! !

Old/New !!!

Dirty or Clean !!! $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ I PAY CA$H 956-466-7001 $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ No Title – No Problem – We Can Apply For One ANR Enterprises $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ l

l

An acceptable bid bond in an amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany each bid as a guaranty that, if awarded the contract, the bidder will promptly enter into contract with the City of Buda and furnish bonds on the forms provided.

Bidders are expected to inspect the site of the work and to inform themselves of all local conditions. time of completion shall be 90 calendar days including Saturdays,

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.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE A tax rate of $0.0876 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of Hays County ESD #8.

PROPOSED TAX RATE $0.0876 per $100 NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE $0.0806 per $100 VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE $0.0837 per $100 DE MINIMIS RATE $0.0876 per $100

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE A tax rate of $0.0674 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of Northeast Hays County ESD #2.

PROPOSED TAX RATE $0.0674 per $100 NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE $0.0604 per $100 VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE $0.0627 per $100 DE MINIMIS RATE $0.0674 per $100 The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2022 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for Northeast Hays County ESD #2 from the same properties in both the 2021 tax year and the 2022 tax year.

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2022 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for Hays County ESD #8 from the same properties in both the 2021 tax year and the 2022 tax year.

The voter-approval rate is the highest tax rate that Northeast Hays County ESD #2 may adopt without holding an election to seek voter approval of the rate, unless the de minimis rate for Northeast Hays County ESD #2 exceeds the voter-approval rate for Northeast Hays County ESD #2.

The voter-approval rate is the highest tax rate that Hays County ESD #8 may adopt without holding an election to seek voter approval of the rate, unless the de minimis rate for Hays County ESD #8 exceeds the voter-approval rate for Hays County ESD #8.

The de minimis rate is the rate equal to the sum of the no-new-revenue maintenance and operations rate for Northeast Hays County ESD #2, the rate that will raise $500,000, and the current debt rate for Northeast Hays County ESD #2.

The de minimis rate is the rate equal to the sum of the no-new-revenue maintenance and operations rate for Hays County ESD #8, the rate that will raise $500,000, and the current debt rate for Hays County ESD #8.

The proposed tax rate is greater than the no-new-revenue tax rate. This means that Northeast Hays County ESD #2 is proposing to increase property taxes for the 2022 tax year.

The proposed tax rate is greater than the no-new-revenue tax rate. This means that Hays County ESD #8 is proposing to increase property taxes for the 2022 tax year.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON August 18, 2022 AT 7:00 PM AT Buda Fire Department Administration Offices - 209 FM 2770, Buda, TX 78610.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON August 17, 2022 AT 7:00 PM AT Buda Fire Department Administration Offices - 209 FM 2770, Buda, TX 78610.

The proposed tax rate is greater than the voter-approval tax rate but not greater than the de minimis rate.

However, the proposed tax rate exceeds the rate that allows voters to petition for an election under Section 26.075, Tax Code. If Northeast Hays County ESD #2 adopts the proposed tax rate, the qualified voters of the Northeast Hays County ESD #2 may petition the Northeast Hays County ESD #2 to require an election to be held to determine whether to reduce the proposed tax rate. If a majority of the voters reject the proposed tax rate, the tax rate of the Northeast Hays County ESD #2 will be the voter-approval tax rate of the Northeast Hays County ESD #2.

YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE RATES MENTIONED ABOVE CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS:

The proposed tax rate is greater than the voter-approval tax rate but not greater than the de minimis rate.

However, the proposed tax rate exceeds the rate that allows voters to petition for an election under Section 26.075, Tax Code. If Hays County ESD #8 adopts the proposed tax rate, the qualified voters of the Hays County ESD #8 may petition the Hays County ESD #8 to require an election to be held to determine whether to reduce the proposed tax rate. If a majority of the voters reject the proposed tax rate, the tax rate of the Hays County ESD #8 will be the voter-approval tax rate of the Hays County ESD #8.

YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE RATES MENTIONED ABOVE CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: Property tax amount= (tax rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 FOR the proposal:

Scott Stevens Carol Greaves

Jim Weatherford Jim Hills

AGAINST the proposal: None

Paul Kaskie

Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

The following table compares the taxes imposed on the average residence homestead by Hays County ESD #8 last year to the taxes proposed to be imposed on the average residence homestead by Hays County ESD #8 this year.

2021 2022 Change Total tax rate (per $0.1000 $0.0876 decrease of -0.0124, or $100 of value) -12.40% Average homestead $291,511 $423,336 increase of 131,825, or taxable value 45.22% Tax on average $291.51 $370.84 increase of 79.33, or homestead 27.21% Total tax levy on all $5,497,232 $6,178,657 increase of 681,425, or properties 12.40%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for Hays County ESD #8 at 512-3935545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us, or visit hays.countytaxrates.com for more information.

Halley Ortiz Bert Bronaugh

JB Kolodzey Josh Harper

AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting:None ABSENT:

PRESENT and not voting: ABSENT:

Property tax amount= (tax rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 FOR the proposal:

Stacy Morgan

Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

The following table compares the taxes imposed on the average residence homestead by Northeast Hays County ESD #2 last year to the taxes proposed to be imposed on the average residence homestead by Northeast Hays County ESD #2 this year.

2021 2022 Change Total tax rate (per $0.0750 $0.0674 decrease of -0.0076, or $100 of value) -10.13% Average homestead $291,500 $423,329 increase of 131,829, or taxable value 45.22% Tax on average $218.63 $285.32 increase of 66.69, or homestead 30.50% Total tax levy on all $4,123,811 $4,754,849 increase of 631,038, or properties 15.30%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for Northeast Hays County ESD #2 at 512-393-5545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us, or visit hays.countytaxrates.com for more information.

Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 10, 2022

Classifieds

PUBLIC NOTICES, CONT.

c/o Georganne G. Leonard Attorney at Law 238 Granville Way San Antonio, Texas 78231.

Dated August 1, 2022.

HAYS CISD IS REQUESTING PROPOSALS FOR RFP #25072201AS Hays CISD is Requesting Proposals for RFP #25072201AS Professional Services for Contruction.

Proposals will be accepted until 08-10-2022 at 2:00 p.m. local time. Specifications are available in the HCISD Purchasing Office (512- 2682141 ext. 46035) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Proposal responses must be returned to the HCISD Purchasing Office 21003 IH 35, Kyle, TX 78640, by the date and time indicated above.

Late Bids will be returned unopened. The HCISD Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids and waive all formalities in the bid process.

PUBLIC NOTICE By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on August 16th, 2022 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: Burnett Ranch, Sec 1, Lot 11, Replat

PUBLIC NOTICE By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on August 16th, 2022 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 39, Glenn H. Kothmann Properties Subdivision

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Of property to satisfy a landlord’s lien.

Sale to be held Online @ Storagetreasures.com By competitive bid.

Anytime Storage, LLC 2401 Windy Hill rd. Kyle, TX 78640 Will be ending on or after August 23, 2022 @ 11 AM Cleanup deposit is required.

Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale.

The property contents of all storage unit(s) sold at this sale are purchased “as is” “where is” for CASH/CREDIT. Unit items sold for cash to the highest bidder. All Units have miscellaneous household items, boxes, furniture.

Property includes the contents of spaces of the following tenant (s).

JESSICA PEREZ luggage, compressor CAMERON QUINTANILLA vacuum, TV MEGAN SMITH tools. bed, toys JOSE RUIZ mattress, fridge, TV

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Of property to satisfy a landlord’s lien.

Sale to be held Online @ Storagetreasures.com By competitive bid.

Anytime Storage, LLC

880 Windy Hill rd. Kyle, TX 78640 Will be ending on or after August 23, 2022 @ 11 AM Cleanup deposit is required.

Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale.

The property contents of all storage unit(s) sold at this sale are purchased “as is” “where is” for CASH/CREDIT. Unit items sold for cash to the highest bidder. All Units have miscellaneous household items, boxes, furniture.

Property includes the contents of spaces of the following tenant (s).

ERIN WATERS washer, dryer, mower VICTOR CHAPA bed, camping, electronics

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS (EVCS) The City of Kyle is requesting proposals from Firms to fully fund, design, install, operate, maintain and market EVCS on publicly owned property for public use.

The deadline for submissions is 12:00 p.m. CST (noon) on August 24, 2022.

Proposal specifications may be secured from the City of Kyle (“City”) website at: https:// www.cityofkyle.com/rfps A pre-submittal meeting will NOT be held.

Proposals received after the deadline will not be accepted.

The City reserves the right to negotiate with any and all persons or firms. The City also reserves the right to reject any or all submittals, or to accept any submittal deemed most advantageous, or to waive any irregularities or informalities in the submittal received, and to

FOR RENT revise the process schedule as circumstances arise.

Kathy Roecker Stormwater Management Plan Administrator

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Chapter 59 Texas Property Code. River Road Self Storage will conduct a Public Sale to the highest bidder for cash on their premises. This sale is being listed below.

The company reserves the right to reject any bid and withdraw any from the sale at any time.

Date: August 27, 2022 (Saturday) River Road Self Storage wishes to avail themselves of the Texas Provision of Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code.

This sale is listed below.

Time: 9:00a.m.

Location: 880 River Road, San Marcos, Texas 78666 Unit #010 Ð G. Garcia Ð floor jack, wheel barrel, folding table & chairs, oxygen tank for welding, tv, weed eater, easy shade Unit #133 Ð B. Crawford Ð cooler, chairs, boxes Unit #138 Ð M. Arredondo Ð bunk bed frame, dresser, end table, fan, tv Unit #264 Ð R. Blaha Ð roll top desk, antique floor lamp, 6 ft ladder, wooden table and chairs Unit #279 Ð R. Scandurra Ð clothes, furniture, household goods, boxes Unit #286 Ð S. Garcia Ð dresser, end tables, bbq pit, totes Unit #303 Ð H. Rivera Ð boxes, furniture, totes, household goods Unit #309 Ð T. Jackson Ð cooler, toaster oven, table, household goods

YOUR VOTE MATTERS

LWV prepares for upcoming election

Unit #354 Ð D. Hawkins Ð dryer, baby stuff, household goods, computer monitor

HOME FOR RENT

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The City of Buda received a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-DR) Disaster Recovery grant from the Texas General Land Office for recovery from the 2015 Flooding & Storms. A public hearing has been called for 6:00 PM on August 15, 2022, via Zoom teleconference to review the program performance of the activities completed under this grant. Comments are welcome. The City invites attendance of the public hearing either through video or by phone at the following: Video with audio: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/9773040341?pwd=NDNub21GM3dxQy9OYUthbWlUeUZmUT09 La ciudad de Buda recibió una subvención de recuperación de desastres de Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-DR) de la Oficina General de Tierras de Texas para recuperarse de las inundaciones y tormentas de 2015. Se convocó una audiencia pública para el 15 de agosto de 2022 a las 6:00 p.m. a través de una teleconferencia Zoom para revisar el desempeño del programa de las actividades completadas con esta subvención. Aceptamos comentarios. La Ciudad invita a asistir a la audiencia pública ya sea por video o por teléfono.

For further information or assistance, contact Kenny Crawford, Project Manager, at (512) 312-0084.

Available August: 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath stucco home on .83 acres. Two living rooms, plus office. Multiple decks. School zones: Negley Elementary, Barton Middle School, Hays High. Call Cyndy: 512.753.2700.

WANTED ROOM FOR RENT WANTED Single woman seeking quiet room to rent with another single woman anywhere in Hays County, before Sept 1. $750/mo max. I am no kids, no partner, no pets, no smoking, no drugs and no alcohol. Respectful, quiet, clear communicator. Landlord references, personal references and can pass background check. I love other peoples pets, and can offer free pet sitting too.

Call Sara at 512-774-4136 if interested thank you!

To place a classified ad, call us at 512-268-7862 or email us! paper@haysfreepress. com

Buda approves new PID policy

BY CJ VETTER

BUDA - On Aug. 2, the Buda City Council approved a new Public Improvement District policy, alongside passing new budgets for the 2023 fiscal year.

PIDs are a tool by which cities can fund and finance future improvements of the city. The new PID policy, as approved by the city council, will create a set of guidelines for any PID that wishes to be approved by the council must meet. While not a one-size-fits-all solution for every

PID wishing to build in the city limits, the new legislation would help speed up the process that all PIDs must go through before being approved by the city.

The council also approved a budget for the Buda Economic Development Corporation for its projects in 2023. The BEDC is an economic development entity created to help pursue balanced economic growth.

Its total net budget for the years of 2022 to 2023 was $490,054, compared to 2021 to 2022’s budget of $715,408.

KYLE

Council directs ethics committee to review ordinance

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The 2022-2023 League board members are, from left Vice-President Membership Laurie O’Donnell; Co-VP Voter Services Marilyn Minnaar; Director Member Events Margaret Lindsey; President Mary Earls; Co-VP Voter Services Sheryl Davis; VP Programs Helen Lowman; Past President Teresa Carbajal Ravet; Treasurer Charles Minnaar.

BY MEGAN WEHRING HAYS COUNTY – The League of Women Voters of Hays County is gearing up for the upcoming election season.

“This year, we are going to focus on ensuring that every person who lives in Hays County and is eligible to vote has the opportunity to vote,” said Mary Earls, Board President of the LWV of Hays County. “We have found over the last couple of years that there is a need to educate our community so that is one of our biggest focuses this year – to educate and inform Hays County residents about the importance of voting.”

The National League was founded in Chicago in 1920 – six months before the 19th Amendment was ratified and women won the vote. The League was formed by the suffragists of the National American Woman Suffrage Association; it started as a “mighty political experiment” to help 20 million women carry out their responsibilities as voters.

The Hays County League is a “nonpartisan, grassroots civic organization” that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and more. Membership is open to people 16 years and older, of all gender identities.

Earls said the League intends to go into rural and other areas where residents are not informed.

“They are not aware of what the impact could be for them in their communities, families, schools and neighborhood organizations,” Earls said. “They have no idea what the vote would mean as far as bringing resources in and putting the right person in the position who is going to serve the community.”

Ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to vote means working closely with business owners, schools and community leaders, according to Earls.

The LWV of Hays County named new board members for

2022-2023: • President, Mary Earls • Past-President, Teresa Carbajal Ravet • Vice-President for Programs, Helen Lowman • VP for Membership, Laurie ODonnell • Co-VP, Voter Services (Forums and Debates), Sheryl Davis • Co-VP, Voter Services, Marilyn Minnaar • Treasurer, Charles Minnaar Earls said she is honored to be able to serve the community in this capacity.

“I come from a large family,” Earls explained. “My parents [were] very direct in their guidance in us to always look for the opportunity to help. …

The LWV has such a tremendous history of not only doing what’s right by people but empowering people to do what every American desires to do and that is to vote their voice. Your vote is your voice.”

KYLE — Ethics was brought into question at Tuesday’s Kyle City Council meeting.

The Kyle City Council met Tuesday, Aug. 2 , where council members discussed the city's ethics ordinance and approved various agenda items including a one-year landscaping contract for maintenance at Heroes Memorial Park and the authorization for the Kyle Police Department to execute an agreement with LexisNexis Coplogic Solutions, Inc. to provide online citizen reporting.

After conducting research, council member Yvonne FloresCale said the current ethics ordinance should be easier to read, understand and provide an accessible process for people to utilize. She opted to send the ordinance back to the ethics committee to review and update – Flores-Cale also said that she would like to see a form with the required information, affidavit and clarified definitions.

“Currently, after a complaint is filed, there is no follow-up from the city, ethics committee, or ethics attorney. The only point of contact is our city secretary, which means she is responsible for all the followups when people call back,” FloresCale said.

Overall, Mayor Travis Mitchell agreed with Flores-Cale – but was unsure of the council’s role in it.

“I have thoughts about all this, but I don’t know that we’re that

right [governing] body,” Mitchell said.

Flores-Cale motioned to direct the ethics committee to review and update the city’s ethics ordinance including verbiage regarding notification/updates after the committee hears a complaint – the item passed 6-0.

Several other agenda items were also approved.

Additionally, council members discussed Costco’s request to temporarily waive Section 23-60 of the City’s Code Ordinances, which restricts construction activity that generates noise within 600 feet of residential structures from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. at 19086 I-35. For approximately 12 days, beginning in September, workers will start at 2 a.m. to avoid extreme heat.

Mayor Mitchell thought the construction would work well and “shouldn’t be overly disruptive to any residents.”

District 5 Council Member Daniela Parsley questioned if residents around the area would be notified of this noise disturbance. Assistant City Manager Amber Lewis said they would work with the contractor to ensure residents in the area would be given ample notice of the construction.

“I know everyone’s excited about Costco, so let’s get this done,” said Robert Rizo, Mayor Pro Tem. Mitchell motioned to approve, and the item passed unanimously 6-0.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 10, 2022

Page 9

DATE NIGHT

Pottery Painting on the Patio

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN BUDA – People from around the community came together Friday night with a glass of wine and paintbrush in hand.

Pottery Painting on the Patio, an art class hosted by the Inspired Minds Art Center in Buda, welcomed many to attend: partners, friends, siblings and parents.

Participants selected one of artist and teacher Emily Hohertz’s ceramics to glaze. Hohertz gave advice throughout the class like the color selection.

Buda resident Vicki Bolanos said she registered for the class because she wanted to get out of the house.

“It seemed creative,” Bolanos said.

Attendee Michele Schalin thought the class was “relaxing” and “super fun.”

“Connecting with yourself through creativity is so peaceful and joyful,” Schalin said.

Ashley and Tyler Waterman attended the pottery class for a date night.

“We had so much fun.

Emily was fantastic and provided us with great

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Vicki Bolanos asks Emily Hohertz what colors she could use for her ceramic.

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Attendee Michelle Schalin is pouring out yellow paint on her palette.

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Swatches of glaze lay on the counter, waiting for artists to select what will be used for their ceramics. direction and was super knowledgeable,” Ashley said.

Ashley said she highly

recommends Pottery Painting on the Patio for a date night or a fun wine night with the girls.

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Buda residents Ashley and Tyler Waterman paint their ceramics.

SHOP LOCAL

Railhouse Market Day debut

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN KYLE — The Railhouse Bar, a family-friendly bar located at 107 E. Center Street in Kyle, hosted its first Railhouse Market Day on Sunday, Aug. 7, where numerous vendors were invited to sell their products and connect with the community.

Community members were invited to shop, eat and listen to live music performed by the Six Sons of a Gun while spending time with friends and family.

Individuals of legal age were able to buy drinks at the bar and order food from Courson’s Barbecue, a food truck that served various Birria foods, including Birria tacos, Birria quesadillas and Birria melts. Community members could also order food from Badassfoods512.

Marina Luna, the owner of Rainbow Kids Apparel, enjoyed the opportunity to gather with other local businesses at the market.

“I think they’re great for small businesses like us to get out there and live our dreams,” Luna said.

Luna was inspired by her son to open her business.

“I realized there are never mom and son or son and dad or just cute son outfits in general, so that got me thinking,” Luna said.

Bernada Martinez and Carol Velasquez opened Buff City Soap in February and found the market to be a great networking opportunity.

“We’re trying to get our name out there and get events and let people know we’re there,” Velasquez said.

Several members of the community thought the event was a perfect activity for a Sunday and the live music brought a calming atmosphere.

The Railhouse Bar plans to host market days on the first Sunday of every month.

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Residents gathered at the Railhouse Bar on Sunday, Aug. 7, for the debut of the venue’s new market days event.

Grandparent's Day is September 11, 2022

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Six Sons of a Gun lead singer sings while playing the guitar.

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Courson’s Barbecue food truck was open for business on Sunday’s Market Day.

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Widgeon Holland playing lead guitar for Six Sons of a Gun

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Page 10

Hays Free Press • August 10, 2022

COUNCIL, from page 1 of that information flow issue — and there are a lot of moving parts — it’s a living project where we are responding to the requests we’ve been receiving to make the project better.

Unfortunately, it’s happened over five years. There’s only a few of us who have seen the movie from start to finish.”

MileStone has grown restless, asking that commissioners approve the agreement so they can take it to council and present it in its entirety instead of going back and forth and delaying construction. Many in the community have questioned this sense of urgency, but to Martin, it’s a “simple economic equation.”

“We’ve been at it for five years.

I think we’ve all become aware of the need for housing supply to try and keep housing prices more reasonable,” Martin said.

“We’re doing our very best to bring supply to the marketplace to meet that demand. Five years is not a reasonable time frame. I think the vast majority of people would agree, especially people looking for a house. … If the vote is, ‘we can’t support this project,’ that’s ok. We would prefer that over continually being stuck in this quagmire of information that's hodgepodge-y where we’re not actually dealing with the facts.”

While MileStone sought the commission’s approval of the agreement during the meeting, the commissioners

ultimately were not ready to do so, and unanimously made the recommendation to deny it. This recommendation will next go to Buda City Council, which acts as the final authority.

Buda Planning Director Melissa McCollum said that the council has a variety of actions it could take, such as recommending to approve the agreement as is or with conditions, recommend to deny or table the agreement or recommend to send it back to P&Z. But those against the development shouldn’t celebrate just yet. MileStone representatives have made it clear that regardless of where the city stands, Persimmon is going to get built. If the development agreement is denied by the Buda City Council, MileStone representatives have stated they will start to operate under Hays County rules and regulations, which differ greatly from the city of Buda.

In Texas, property owners have the right to develop their property under county standards without required consent from the city. Counties are required to approve projects under very broad standards.

Martin said that if the agreement is denied, all of the commitments MileStone made in the original agreement would go away. As such, a 1626 connector is “not likely,” and more connections through the

Coves of Cimarron are possible instead; only the Garlic Creek Parkway connection up to the future SH 45 will be required.

Apartments are also plausible, and the minimum amount of commercial space would look different.

Regarding the 75% signature tree and 85% heritage tree preservation and the over 100-year-old dairy barn that is set to be repurposed, Martin said these will ultimately be up to their [MileStone’s] discretion, since these commitments would also go away.

Many Buda residents have voiced that they are not antidevelopment. Though Hays County is exploding with growth, there is still a sense of smalltown camaraderie among the community, as residents think about the city’s future, looking at a development like Persimmon as something that will change the fabric of their home quickly and drastically.

“I’m not anti-development, but I am against development that’s short-sighted, poorly planned and leaves current residents to deal with the mess left behind long after the developers are gone,” resident Robin Perry said.

Council is expected to discuss the development agreement at its Sept. 6 meeting. MileStone will also hold an information session on Aug. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Garlic Creek Community Center in Buda.

the council.

“Thank you for everything you have done for the city and for the residents,” Council Member Michael Tobias said.

Council Member District 5 Daniela Parsley thanked Ellison for always challenging her.

“Thank you for our conversations and for your advice,” Parsley said.

“Every meeting he wanted to make a difference and the items he brought forward to the city,

he wanted to make a difference,” Mayor Pro Tem Robert Rizo said.

“Like every single one of us here, we want to make a difference. We want to make a difference in our city. All I can say is that I wish you the best.

You have my prayers and my thoughts as well. Don't ever think of us as perfect. We're not perfect up here. We're just human.”

Ellison did not respond to requests for comment.

ELLISON, from page 1 opportunity and doing your best to understand me in every interaction and meeting.

“Godspeed and God bless you all.”

The council officially accepted Ellison’s resignation during its regularly scheduled meeting Aug. 2. Regardless of council action, the resignation would have become effective after eight days. Several council members spoke at the meeting thanking Ellison for his time on

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WATER, from page 1 made in HMP and to avoid additional costs and delays for the completion of the project in a forecast that was not promising rain, the decision to supplement the pond with city water was made,” Sonnier said, adding that the pond has “benefited from two large rain events that have contributed significantly to the water in the pond.”

According to the National Weather Service, the KyleEast station that automatically measures precipitation in the area received 4.05 inches of rain between May 1 and Aug. 7.

Additionally, Gov. Greg Abbott issued a drought declaration on July 8.

Sonnier explained that pumping equipment could not be tested or commissioned until there was enough water in the pond to completely cover the intake by at least one to 1.5 feet, and that had the pond not been filled, the contractor would have been delayed, which in turn would have delayed the overall completion of the project and incurred potential extended general condition costs to the city and taxpayers.

Staff considered using other water sources, but they were either not available or too costly; to have water hauled in, the cost to the city would have been $260,415. Instead, the city’s estimated cost to supply water to HMP using city water was calculated to be $3,287.50.

The city pays for the water used for all of the city’s parks and facilities, including HMP, which is included in the overhead cost of the water system.

The total water used to supplement HMP is 2.325 million gallons, according to a metered connection. However, staff members maintain that the impact to the water system over that time was extremely minimal and was the “most cost-effective and economical way to fill the pond” in order to keep with the construction plans.

"Staff made the best decision with the available information at the time," Sonnier said. "When the decision was initially made to supplement the HMP pond in June, the city's drought outlook was not at a critical level and the financial impacts to the citizens of Kyle for not being able to fill

the pond were significant. After the equipment was tested and the financial impacts became less of an issue, staff made the decision to stop adding water to the HMP." Citywide, the water system produces between five and seven million gallons per day. On average, residents use around 2.5 million gallons of water daily.

Over the course of the 45 days that the pond was being filled, the city’s total water production was between 450 million gallons and 630 million gallons. City representatives said that the total amount of water used to supplement the pond was less than 0.5% of the city’s total water production during that time.

However, some residents have expressed frustration over the use of city water to fill the pond in light of the announcement of tighter drought conservation regulations.

On July 20, the city informed residents of amendments to the Stage 2 mandatory water use management rules. As of Aug. 3, the city began round-theclock monitoring. As outlined in ordinance 569 that governs the city’s Drought Plan, residents failure to comply can result in a fine of up to $2,000.

Some of these rules include abiding by various restrictions such as when and how much water residents may use outdoors at certain days or times, and other “housekeeping” rules such as ensuring leaks are repaired and prohibiting run-off from property.

“We are asking all residents to do their part to conserve water at this time,” the city said in a statement. “If the demand on the City of Kyle’s water system does not decrease, even further restrictions will be necessary.”

“It’s unfortunate that we are experiencing historic drought conditions during the construction of this beautiful park, and it is our hope that nature will be able to provide the rain to fill the pond,” Hendrix said. “In the event we are not blessed with rain, city staff will explore all avenues to responsibly supplement the water needed for this project.”