August 11, 2021 Hays Free Press by Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch

AUGUST 11, 2021 BURN PERMITS

30-YEAR LOW

Hays County to issue seven-day burn permits online.

Hays County budget includes lowest tax rate in 30 years.

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75¢

Hays Free Press HaysFreePress.com

Vol. 127 • No. 20

Serving Hays County, TX

Hays County COVID-19 Update as of August 9 STAFF REPORT

Hays County Courthouse, San Marcos, TX – Hays County Local Health Department (HCLHD) reports two (2) COVID-related fatalities, a Dripping Springs woman in her 80s, and a San Marcos woman in her 40s. This report covers August 7-9, 2021. HCLHD also reports 317 new lab-confirmed cases along with 35 new hospitalizations and 21 new hospital discharges. There are 258 addition-

al persons considered recovered. The total number of persons considered recovered is 19,765. The current total of lab-confirmed cases for Hays County since the beginning of the pandemic is 21,864. Hays County has 1,820 active cases. In the past 21 days there have been 2,333 active cases. Hays County has had 1,060 total COVID-related hospitalizations and 58 Hays County residents are currently hospitalized.

HAYS COUNTY COVID-19 STATISTICS AS OF AUGUST 9

VACCINE OPPORTUNITIES:

• Monday-Friday, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines at Live Oak Community Clinic, 401 Broadway, San Marcos, 8:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:30-4:30 p.m. • Monday-Friday – Walkin Pfizer vaccine clinics @ CommuniCare, 2810 Dacy Ln., Kyle, 9 a.m.12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m.

Hays Veterans financial program expands services

Hey, Kyle!

City of Kyle attempts world record with ‘Kyle’ gathering The city of Kyle is gearing up for its annual Pie in the Sky Festival Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3-5. Among the festivities, Kyle officials are trying to gather as many patrons as possible with the name “Kyle.” “We are so excited to host Kyle Pie in the Sky Hot Air Balloon Festival once again and bring back the Guinness World record attempt for the most Kyles in one place,” Special Events Coordinator Sarah Watson said. “We have high hopes that 2021 will be the record-breaking year for the Gathering of the Kyles.” The gathering will occur on Saturday, Sept. 4 at 10 a.m., during the morning session. There will be a group photo and official sign in. The current Guinness World Record for the largest same name gathering (first name only) belongs to Kupreski Kosci in Bosnia and Herzegovina with a total of 2,325 participants named Ivan. The City of Kyle has previously attempted to break the record three times and 2021 will be the fourth attempt. See www.pieinthesky. com for more information.

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

PHOTO BY DANIELLE MODISETTE-SCOTT

Top row (l-r) assistant coach Andrew Rodriguez, assistant coach Kris Beasley, assistant coach Chelsea Romanowski, head coach Philip Daigle, HYBSA President Jason Pack. Middle row (l-r): Easton Bean, Auggie Rivera, Brady Daigle, Izaiah Ruedas, Tyler Golden, Dean Daigle, Corbin Zachary. Bottom row (l-r) Brayden Rodriguez, Julius Beasley, Carson Hacker, Donovan Fleming, Lydia Lopez, and Hudson Chavez.

Local Little Leaguers go to Pony World Series BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Some of Hays County’s youngest athletes had the unique opportunity of experiencing teamwork, sportsmanship and the importance of community during the baseball world series.

The 6U Shetland All-Stars team, a tee-ball team part of the Hays Youth Baseball and Softball Association (HYBSA), competed at the Pony World Series in Youngsville, Louisiana from July 21 to July 24. The Hays Shetland team consists of local

Hays County kids aged 4 to 6. After the regular baseball season, which ran from February to May, 13 players were selected for the all-stars team in late May after tryouts. The all-stars team was led by head coach Philip Daigle and assistant

coaches Kris Beasley, Chelsea Romanowski and Andrew Rodriguez. After competing in three tournaments, the team secured a spot to compete in the Pony World Series and had a month to prepare for

WORLD SERIES, 10

Coming Up SENIOR WATERCOLOR CLASSES Repeats every month on August, September, October, November on the third Monday. Area seniors are invited to the Krug Activity Center (old Kyle City Hall) Monday, August 16, at 2:30pm for a free watercolor class hosted by the Kyle Area Senior Zone and Kyle Public Library. This class is taught by

STATE NEWS

Buda Artist, Gena Destri. Due to limited supplies, class space is limited to the first 20 participants. First come, first served.

SUMMER IN THE PARK FINALE WITH BRUCE ROBISON AND KELLY WILLIS The summer series of concerts in San Marcos Plaza Park are drawing to an end. Catch the

Veteran reporter Gary Rodgers touches on Capital Highlights.

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Bruce Robison & Kelly Willis last show of the summer tomorrow, Aug. 12, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

ANCESTRY.COM LESSONS On the third Tuesday in July through December, interested community members are invited to

learn about free access to Ancestry.com Library Edition. The next lesson will be Tuesday, Aug. 17 at Kyle Library’s Meeting Room B. For more information contact Adult Services Librarian Jesus Hernandez at jhernandez@ cityofkyle.com.

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. ISSN#1087-9323

Hays County created a program to aid veterans through financial hardships – now that program is expanding. “When we rolled out this program late last year, the aim was to help qualifying veterans, dependents and surviving spouses with past due rent, mortgages, utilities and car payments,” said Jude Prather, the county’s Veterans Services manager.

VETERAN SERVICES, 10

Kyle PD investigates deadly hit and run BY SAHAR CHMAIS A Hays County Sheriff’s Deputy found a man struck by a vehicle in the 100 block of Windy Hill Road, on Thursday, Aug. 5 at 2:29 a.m. The 22-year-old victim, Jose Emilio Berberena, died from his injuries. Officers began life saving efforts on Berberena while waiting for Buda Fire and EMS to arrive. The Kyle resident was transported to Ascension Seton Hays Hospital, but died from the injuries. An investigation of the accident was initiated by the Kyle Police Department Crash Investigation Unit immediately

DEADLY HIT AND RUN, 10

Page 2

NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

County budget includes lowest tax rate in 30 years Budget workshops have been set for Aug. 10 and 17 at 11 a.m., and on Aug. 24 at 1 p.m. at the county courthouse in downtown San Marcos. The workshops are open to the public.

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

nue Rate,” Becerra said, “but I had no idea it Hays County could rewould be the lowest in duce its tax rate, making over 30 years. My desire it the lowest since 1990. was to be a fiscal steward A special meeting was and be most respectful called by Hays County of our taxpayers’ hardJudge Ruben Becerra earned money.” for the 2022 fiscal year By lowering the tax budget, during which rate, Becerra said he he pointed to possible hopes it will inspire changes at the county municipalities, school that could reduce the tax districts and other taxing rate to $0.3867. agencies to lower theirs. Budget workshops have The No New Revenue been set for Aug. 10 and Rate formula assumes 17 at 11 a.m., and on Aug. that if property values 24 at 1 p.m. at the county increase, the tax rate courthouse in downtown should decrease to San Marcos. The workcreate the same amount shops are open to the of revenue as it did the public. year before, according “My goal was to to the Texas Comptroller achieve a No New Revewebsite. The property

valuations for Tax Year 2020 in Hays County was $21,819,743.233 with a tax rate of $0.3924. For the upcoming Tax Year 2021 (Fiscal Year 2022), the valuations have been set by the Hays County Central Appraisal District at $25,073,854,064. Other items in the new budget will also include funds for a Hays County

mental health facility, which will have VA wing, to serve military veterans. Funds for the facility will come from the $44 million federal American Rescue Plan Fund. The budget also includes upgrades in technology for the Public Defenders Office across the county. The budget includes more county positions

for FY 2021-22. It includes 18 new correction officers jobs, 22 positions for the expansion of jail operations, one animal control officer and 31 patrol vehicles. A new deputy constable position will be considered after redistricting is complete. A new district court has also been created for Hays County, so funding has been provided to support it. Social service agencies are not expected to receive any increases from the previous year’s budget. Becerra created a new budget office, adding that he expects the population

of Hays County to be set at or above 225,000 by the recent U.S. Census. According to the Texas Government Code, once a county reaches a population of 225,000, the county either appoints the county auditor as budget officer or creates the position of budget officer. During the workshops, commissioners will get a chance to question and delve into the details of the budget for the next fiscal year. On Aug. 24, Commissioners Court will vote on the proposed budget and will adopt the final budget on Sept. 21. The fiscal year begins Oct. 1, 2021.

County begins open burning permit system BY MEGAN WEHRING

submissions in real time, except on weekends, so it HAYS COUNTY – Want- should be a relatively fast ing to burn that pile of turnaround time.” brush cut over the last Open burn permits season? Not so fast ... first are valid for seven days, you have to register with Mendenhall said. the county. “Another nice element The Hays County Fire of the new system is that Marshal’s Office impleit notifies individuals, mented a new online when they activate their system for Open Burning permit, if a burn ban is in Permits in the unineffect or if it’s a ‘Red Flag’ corporated areas of the day and burning is not county. allowed,” Mendenhall “Our new online portal said. offers Hays County To register, visit http:// residents an easy to way www.hayscountypermits. register for an open burn com and select the Login permit,” said Fire Maror Register button in the shal Nathan Mendentop right corner. Firsthall. “We review permit time users can sign up for

a free account through the Register link. All registered users can log into the portal in the future. When logged in, users need to click the ‘Apply for a new operational permit’ link at the top of the screen and choose

For all the latest Hays County news, visit

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HAVING VISION PROBLEMS? IT COULD BE CATARACTS

the Open Burning Permit and complete the required information. Using the instructions provided, individuals will activate their permit each day they wish to burn during the seven-day permit.

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City of Kyle, Texas Notice of City Council Budget Meetings and Public Hearings for Proposed Operating and Capital Budget Fiscal Year 2021-2022 The Kyle City Council is scheduled to conduct the remaining budget meetings and public hearings on the City Manager's proposed budget for fiscal year 2021-2022 to review revenues, expenditures, and fund balances for all City Funds. This review and discussion will cover property tax rates, water and wastewater service rates, storm drainage fee, other fees and charges for various City programs and services, capital improvement projects, requests for additional personnel, requests for new equipment and vehicles, and other budgetary items. The City Manager presented the City’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2021-2022 to the City Council at Budget Worksession No. 3 held at Kyle City Hall on Saturday, July 31, 2021. It is important to note that the City Manager’s proposed budget as presented to City Council on July 31, 2021, is subject to changes and amendments by the City Council during the budget deliberation process. The proposed budget for fiscal year 2021-2022 is a complete financial plan for all City funds, programs, services, operations, and capital improvement program (CIP) activities for the period covering October 1, 2021, through September 30, 2022. The proposed budget for fiscal year 2021-2022 for all City expenditures, as proposed by the City Manager and as amended by the City Council on July 31, 2021, totals approximately $172.6 million and includes 302.0 full-time equivalent positions. Of the total $172.6 million amended proposed budget, the City’s proposed General Fund budget, as amended by City Council, for fiscal year 20212022 totals approximately $34.3 million for operations and maintenance and approximately $7.5 million in one-time transfers from the fund balance to pay for major capital improvement projects instead of issuing bond debt. A general summary of the City’s proposed budget, as amended by the City Council on July 31, 2021, for fiscal year 2021-2022 for all City funds including debt service is provided below:     

FOR ALL CITY FUNDS Estimated Beginning Fund Balance Estimated Revenue Estimated Available Funds Estimated Expenditures Estimated Ending Fund Balance

$ 114,396,736 $ 129,180,000 $ 243,576,736 $ 172,634,377* $ 70,942,359

*Includes expenditure of accumulated funds from prior fiscal years such as bond proceeds, water and wastewater impact fees, park development fees, re-prioritization of capital funds, and the one-time use of fund balances.

The Kyle City Council is scheduled to hold the remaining budget meetings and public hearings on the proposed budget, property tax rates, water and wastewater service rates storm drainage fee, and other fees and charges for various City services for fiscal year 2021-2022 on the following dates:

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

City Council Budget Worksession No. 1:

Saturday, May 1, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. (Completed)



City Council Budget Worksession No. 2:

Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. (Completed)



City Council Budget Worksession No. 3:

Saturday, July 31, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. (Completed)



City Council Budget Worksession No. 4: (includes public hearing and 1st Reading of Budget & Property Tax Rate Ordinances)

Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.



City Council Budget Worksession No. 5: (includes public hearing & 2nd Reading of Budget & Property Tax Rate Ordinances)

Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.

All Kyle residents, taxpayers, business owners, and interested persons are invited to attend the City Council’s budget meetings and public hearings to provide their comments to the City Council. An electronic copy of the City Manager’s proposed operating and capital budget and all amendments as approved by the City Council on July 31, 2021, for fiscal year 2021-2022 is available on the City's website. A printed copy of the complete proposed budget document is also available for public inspection during business hours at Kyle City Hall located at 100 West Center Street, Kyle, Texas, and at the Kyle Public Library located at 550 Scott Street, Kyle, Texas. Date Issued:

August 11, 2021

Issued By:

Perwez A. Moheet, CPA Director of Finance City of Kyle, Texas

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Our new online portal offers Hays County residents an easy to way register for an open burn permit. We review permit submissions in real time, except on weekends, so it should be a relatively fast turnaround time.” –Fire Marshal Nathan Mendenhall. Story on page 2.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

Page 3

Pets are good at teaching empathy My Lab puppy, Thurber, makes me laugh out loud every day. The writing life requires you to sit still for long periods of time, but those days are long gone. As I write this column – attempt to write it, that is – my sevenand-a-half-month-old buddy keeps dropping his ball at my feet, hoping to get me to play with him. Which makes me laugh out loud. He usually doesn’t give up until I take him outside for a good run – or we go to the park, so he can greet strangers with enthusiastic joy. I knew getting a dog would change my daily routine, but I had no idea how much he would change and brighten up my life. I didn’t realize until after he arrived five and one-half months ago, but I used to go for days without laughing – certainly without laughing out loud. Now Thurber’s antics make me laugh so hard and so often, I can only imagine how much public civility would be improved if everyone in our country could experience the daily joy he brings me. Civility is “the foundational virtue of citizenship,” developmental psychologist Marilyn Price-Mitchell wrote a decade ago in Psychology Today. It’s behavior “that recognizes the humanity of others, allowing us to live peacefully together in neighborhoods and communities.” She explained that the psychological elements of civility include awareness, respect, self-control and empathy – the very characteristics a professional dog trainer is currently helping me develop in Thurber. Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another – is certainly a skill we Americans are losing in our increasingly isolated, angry, social-media-driven world. But pets like my best buddy Thurber can help bring us together and help us restore our argumentative nation to a civil, well-functioning republic. Child development specialist Denise Daniels explains in

Guest Column by Tom Purcell

The Washington Post that “emotional intelligence,” or EQ, is a measure of empathy. She points to the findings of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, which researches EQ and teaches people how to improve it, and notes that a high EQ score is the best indicator of a child’s success – as well as an adult’s. Which brings us back to the value of pets. Daniels writes that a variety of research in the U.S. and U.K. has shown a correlation between attachment to a pet and higher empathy scores. I know my buddy Thurber has certainly improved my empathy and EQ score. I didn’t realize that my emotions for the little guy would run so deep, or that I would work so hard and do so many things to give him the happiest, healthiest life he can experience. Plus, everywhere we go – and he loves few things more than jumping into the backseat of my truck – he makes total strangers smile, laugh and converse with me. His simple presence can bring human strangers together. He not only makes us forget the petty human world – for a little while, at least – but he reminds us that a simple but magnificent creature like him can turn the most hardened souls back into an empathic, laughing, happy children. As I work hard to train Thurber to be a great dog who exhibits compassion, self-discipline, courtesy and empathy, he is training me right back to improve all of those very same skills. I can no longer imagine what my world would be like without my lovable Labrador enriching it for me – and everyone else who meets him every day.

COVID widow tells deniers to get real Kudos to grieving widow Julia Letlow, a Louisiana Republican congresswoman, for setting the record straight. Better late than never. Last November – you may dimly recall, if at all – her husband Luke won a House seat but never made it to Washington. In mid-December he announced that he had COVID. Twelve days later, he died at age 41. Prior to the illness, according to his doctor, he’d been healthy as a horse. He left behind Julia and two small children. This tragedy was bad enough. Arguably worse were the numerous dolts who insisted on social media with high confidence that COVID hadn’t killed Luke, that surely he had succumbed for some other reason – because in their authoritative view COVID wasn’t real, it was a hoax, or whatever. When I wrote about Luke’s sudden death on Dec. 30, I was peppered with all kinds of creative emails. The big theme was that COVID was not a scientific truth, it was merely a “narrative.” So it’s nice that Julia, having won

Guest Column by Dick Polman

a special election to fill Luke’s House seat, has now come forward to enlighten the fools who continue to live in denial – starting with her fellow Louisianans, only 37 percent of whom have opted to get vaccinated. And not a moment too soon, because Louisiana continues to break COVID-19 hospitalization records. One Louisiana doctor said that his facility is “admitting one Covid patient (every) 45 minutes,” and, in many places, elective surgeries are being canceled as a lower priority. On CBS News this week, Julia Letlow said: “People don’t want to feel forced into anything or be lectured to. We are a very prideful, strong people in Louisiana. I just said, ‘What can I do? Is there anything I can do to help with the misinformation out there? With all of the confusion and fear?’ And

someone asked, ‘Well, what would you tell somebody who’s on the fence about possibly receiving a vaccine?’ And I said I’d tell them about Luke. I would tell them my story.” It’s heart-breaking, of course. He isolated himself in their house, well aware that vaccines were being rapidly developed. Julia said, “He and I prayed about the possibility of the vaccine, and we were so excited that it was coming out and that it was going to be widely available. And he missed it by two weeks.” He was admitted to a hospital shortly before Christmas, “he cried on the way,” and after that “it all happened very quickly…Where I saw the color drain, and that’s when it hit me that he might not come home.” She prayed over him, “and that’s when I left him, and I kissed him goodbye.” Understandably, perhaps, the CBS News folks didn’t want to impinge on her moving story by asking any inconvenient questions. Such as: “Do you regret that your husband, during his House campaign, staged multiple maskless rallies

and meetups?” Such as: “Looking back, was your husband wrong when he campaigned against lockdowns and told voters that ‘we have to learn to live in a Covid world’?” Such as: “Would you be as bullish about vaccines if your family had not suffered this personal tragedy?” But setting all that aside, we should welcome Julia to the fight. She said in the Wall Street Journal: “When Luke was in the hospital, he told me numerous times that he wanted to help people understand the seriousness of the virus.” If she can goad any deniers into getting the jab, it’s a plus. When her husband passed, I wrote: “After 330,000 deaths, how many more cautionary tales do people need to hear?” That was nearly 300,000 deaths ago, so I’ll repeat the question. Dick Polman, a veteran national political columnist based in Philadelphia and a Writer in Residence at the University of Pennsylvania, writes at DickPolman.net. dickpolman7@gmail.com

Tom Purcell is an author and humor columnist for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Tom@TomPurcell.com

Barton Publications, Inc. News tips: news@haysfreepress.com Opinions: csb@haysfreepress.com 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 www.haysfreepress.com 512-268-7862 Publisher Cyndy Slovak-Barton Reporters Megan Wehring, Sahar Chmais Columnists Bartee Haile, Clint Younts

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Page 4

NEWS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE

A tax rate of $0.1000 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of Hays County ESD #8. PROPOSED TAX RATE NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE DE MINIMIS RATE

$0.1000 per $100 $0.0908 per $100 $0.0943 per $100 $0.1000 per $100

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2021 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for Hays County ESD #8 from the same properties in both the 2020 tax year and the 2021 tax year. 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 Hays County ESD #8, the rate that will raise $500,000, and the current debt rate for Hays County ESD #8.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE A tax rate of $0.0996 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of Hays County ESD #5. PROPOSED TAX RATE NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE

$0.0996 per $100 $0.0976 per $100 $0.1011 per $100

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2021 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for Hays County ESD #5 from the same properties in both the 2020 tax year and the 2021 tax year. The voter-approval rate is the highest tax rate that Hays County ESD #5 may adopt without holding an election to seek voter approval of the rate. The proposed tax rate is greater than the no-new-revenue tax rate. This means that Hays County ESD #5 is proposing to increase property taxes for the 2021 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 2021 tax year.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON August 18, 2021 AT 6:30 PM AT 210 West Moore Street - Kyle, TX 78640.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON August 18, 2021 AT 7:00 PM AT Buda Fire Main Station, 209 FM 2770, Buda, TX 78610.

The proposed tax rate is not greater than the voter-approval tax rate. As a result, Hays County ESD #5 is not required to hold an election at which voters may accept or reject the proposed tax rate. However, you may express your support for or opposition to the proposed tax rate by contacting the members of the of Hays County ESD #5 at their offices or by attending the public hearing mentioned above.

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:

Jim Weatherford Scott Stevens Paul Kaskie AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: None

Jim Hollis Carol Greaves

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

Change

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

$0.1000

increase of 0.0000, or 0.00%

Average homestead taxable value

$268,560

$292,820

increase of 24,260 or 9.03%

Tax on average homestead

$268.56

$292.82

increase of 24.26, or 9.03%

Total tax levy on all properties

$4,757,633

$5,474,728

increase of 717,095, or 15.07%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for Hays County ESD #8 at 512-393-5545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE A tax rate of $0.5082 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of City of Kyle. PROPOSED TAX RATE NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE

$0.5082 per 100 $0.4977 per 100 $0.5083 per 100

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2021 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for City of Kyle from the same properties in both the 2020 tax year and the 2021 tax year.

The voter-approval rate is the highest tax rate that City of Kyle may adopt without holding an election to seek voter approval of the rate. The proposed tax rate is greater than the no-new-revenue tax rate. This means that City of Kyle is proposing to increase property taxes for the 2021 tax year.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON AUGUST 17, 2021 AND AUGUST 25, 2021 AT 7:00 PM AT KYLE CITY HALL - 100 W. CENTER STREET, KYLE, TX 78640. The proposed tax rate is not greater than the voter-approval tax rate. As a result, City of Kyle is not required to hold an election at which voters may accept or reject the proposed tax rate. However, you may express your support for or opposition to the proposed tax rate by contacting the members of the of City of Kyle at their offices or by attending the public hearing mentioned above. 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:

AGAINST the proposal: PRESENT and not voting: ABSENT:

Property tax amount = (tax rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100 FOR the proposal: Commissioner Eric Holen Commissioner Susan Meckel Commissioner Paul Terry AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: None

Commissioner John Rodriguez Commissioner Beth Smith

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.

2020

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

Travis Mitchell, Mayor Rick Koch, Mayor Pro Tem, District 5 Dex Ellison, Council Member District 1 Yvonne Flores-Cale, Council Member, District 2 Robert Rizo, Council Member District 3 Ashlee Bradshaw, Council Member, District 4 Michael Tobias, Council Member, District 6 None None None

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 City of Kyle last year to the taxes proposed to be imposed on the average residence homestead by City of Kyle this year. 2020

2021

Change

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

$0.5201

$0.5082

decrease of $-0.0119, or -2.29%

Average homestead taxable value

$216,165

$234,077

increase of $17,912, or 8.29%

Tax on average homestead

$1,124.27

$1,189.58

increase of $65.31, or 5.81%

Total tax levy on all properties

$18,170,578

$19,542,760

increase of $1,372,182, or 7.55%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for City of Kyle at 512-393-5545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us.

The following table compares the taxes imposed on the average residence homestead by Hays County ESD #5 last year to the taxes proposed to be imposed on the average residence homestead by Hays County ESD #5 this year. 2020

2021

Change

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

$0.0993

$0.0996

increase of 0.0003, or 0.30%

Average homestead taxable value

$205,362

$223,450

increase of 18,088, or 8.81%

Tax on average homestead

$203.92

$222.56

increase of 18.64, or 9.14%

Total tax levy on all properties

$4,677,246

$5,025,355

increase of 348,109, or 7.44%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for Hays County ESD #5 at 512-393-5545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE

A tax rate of $0.0750 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of Northeast Hays County ESD #2. PROPOSED TAX RATE NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE DE MINIMIS RATE

$0.0750 per $100 $0.0681 per $100 $0.0707 per $100 $0.0773 per $100

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2021 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 2020 tax year and the 2021 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 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 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 2021 tax year.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON August 19, 2021 AT 7:00 PM AT Buda Fire Main Station - 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: Property tax amount = (tax rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100

FOR the proposal:

AGAINST the proposal: PRESENT and not voting: ABSENT:

Halley Ortiz Bert Bronaugh None None JB Koldzey

Stacy Morgan Josh Harper

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. Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

Average homestead taxable value

Tax on average homestead

Total tax levy on all properties

2020

2021

$0.0750

$268,550

$292,807

$201.41

$219.61

$3,567,801

$4,107,049

Change increase of 0.0000, or 0.00% increase of 24,257, or 9.03%

increase of 18.20, or 9.04%

increase of $539,248, or 15.11%

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 for more information.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

STATE NEWS Delta variant spurs huge increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations The number of Texans hospitalized with lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases is increasing faster than at any other point since the pandemic began in early 2020, due to the highly contagious delta variant. As of Sunday, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported 8,892 people were in Texas hospitals. That is up more than four-fold from a month ago. The Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University reported 96,807 cases in the past week and 384 deaths. That is nearly eight times the number of new cases reported a month ago and more than double the deaths. In Austin, health authorities warned the public that a surge in cases has swamped hospitals, according to a New York Times report. Intensive-care units are near capacity, with only a handful of ICU beds available. Gov. Greg Abbott has barred local governments and public schools from reinstituting mask mandates but is urging people to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The vast majority of those hospitalized have not been vaccinated. A total of 12.84 million Texans are fully vaccinated, about 44% of the state’s total population, according to DSHS.

SECOND SPECIAL SESSION UNDERWAY; DEMS STILL AWOL Abbott convened a second special session just hours after the first session expired but there still wasn’t a quorum present to pass bills. Many Texas House Democratic legislators remained in Washington, D.C. in an effort to both block a quorum and lobby members of Congress to pass a federal voting rights bill. Abbott has put forth a 17-item agenda that includes the election reform bill, bail reform, border security and other issues that were presented but not passed during the regular session. “I will continue to call special session after special session to reform our broken bail system, uphold election integrity, and pass other important items that Texans demand and deserve,” Abbott said when announcing the new session. “Passing these special session agenda items will chart a course towards a stronger and brighter future for the Lone Star State.” Texas House Democrats predictably were critical. State Rep. Ina Minjarez said Abbott is “wasting” taxpayers’ money, chiding the governor in a tweet with the hashtag #StopGaslightingTexans.

STATE NEWS

Page 5

The Texas Crossword and Sudoku Puzzle DeMasters - Daniel Insurance Agency, Inc.

Capital Highlights by Gary Borders

Serving Hays County since 1983 “Call us for all of your insurance needs”

ADDITIONAL MONTH OF LEGISLATIVE FUNDING ANNOUNCED

Angie Dahl

Wimberley: 512-847-5549 or 512-847-9325 Dripping Springs: 512-858-4608

Texas Capitol employees won’t have to go without a paycheck in September after all. Abbott vetoed a portion of the state budget that funds the Legislature and its staff after House Democrats walked out during the regular session. But Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, House Speaker Dade Phelan and others announced an additional month of funding for the Legislature before the second special session that began Saturday. “Texans should not have to pay for Legislators who quit their jobs and leave unfinished business,” Abbott said. “…Funding is being temporarily restored for legislative staff that will be necessary to pass critical legislation…” At least $12.6 million will be transferred from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to both chambers and the legislative agencies that support them, the Texas Tribune reported. The biennial budget, which is already funded, ends Aug. 31. Without the additional funding, more than 2,000 state workers might not have been paid after that date. The special session by law lasts no more than 30 days.

Sudoku puzzle courtesy of www.4puz.com

PANDEMIC HELP FOR TIMBER HARVESTERS, HAULERS Texans who make a living cutting or hauling timber, or processing wood by chipping or grinding, are eligible for grants from a fund of up to $200 million provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture under a pandemic assistance program. The new program, Pandemic Assistance for Timber Harvesters and Haulers (PATHH), encourages timber harvesters and haulers to apply. The deadline is Oct. 15. “We Texans pride ourselves on our rugged individualism and self-reliance. However, when the entire forestry supply chain crashed as a result of the pandemic response, it was more than just a hurdle to overcome,” said Rob Hughes, executive director of the Texas Forestry Association. “That’s why TFA and Texas A&M Forest Service, along with many other partners, have been actively involved in pushing for the Logger Relief Act, which passed in the last federal pandemic relief bill.” Loggers and truckers can apply for PATHH by workSee solutions on page 6

CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS, 7

You can always count on a Texan.

Your local insurance provider, serving Hays County since 1983

DeMasters Daniel Insurance is an independent insurance agency providing personal and commercial insurance products. Let our office help you shop your insurance coverage. Our staff is committed to deliver personalized service to each and every client. Look for upcoming agent introductions.

With two locations to serve you. 107 E. Summit Dr Wimberley 512-847-5549

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COMMUNITY

Texans out for revenge in New Mexico

On Aug. 14, 1842, the secretary of war and marine gave a mysterious Missourian everything he wanted: a colonel’s commission, the money and authority to raise a mercenary force and his sealed orders. Now it was all up to Charles A. Warfield to take Texas’ revenge on New Mexico. The unprovoked imprisonment the previous year of the 300-plus members of the Santa Fe Expedition had deeply wounded Lone Star pride. The tales of cruel mistreatment the pitiful Pioneers told following their mass release in March 1842 made retaliation a national priority. Even more important than saving face and appeasing public opinion was the political necessity to protect the international reputation of the young Republic. European confidence in the future of an independent Texas was badly shaken by the embarrassing failure to make the claim to New Mexico stick. As a result, bankers from London to Brussels no longer regarded the regime as a good credit risk. To organize and lead the clandestine campaign, war secretary George W. Hockley chose a frontiersman with many years experience in New Mexico and the Rocky Mountains. Charles Warfield’s grand though unrealistic goal was the conquest of New Mexico capped by the occupation of Santa Fe. Figuring 800 fighters could handle the job, Warfield counted on Texas and Arkansas to contribute 300 each. The additional 200 he was confident of signing up himself in his native Missouri and at trading posts in the southern Rockies. Wrapping himself in the Lone Star flag, a battle banner from the recent Revolution, Warfield attracted several hundred would-be warriors to his cause. Less interested in Texas expansionism than a generous share of

Wimberley Players search for actors to haunt Pioneer Town on Halloween On Halloween weekend, the Wimberley Players will haunt Pioneer Town with their performance. The Players will partner with 7A Ranch to bring this performance to

The next news flash must have caused Van Zandt to wonder why he ever had gone into politics. On Apr. 10 in U.S. by Bartee territory, an Albuquerque Haile businessman was robbed and murdered by John the spoils offered by their McDaniel, who claimed he future commander, they served as a captain under promised to be primed Col. Warfield. Although his and ready for the invacredentials were dubious sion of New Mexico. at best, hostile reporters Imagine Warfield’s played up the crime as an surprise when only example of how blood24 showed up on the thirsty Texans waged war. appointed day in March Mercifully unaware of 1843! Refusing to turn the bad press, Warfield back, the crestfallen and a handful of followcolonel set out for the ers enlisted in another rendezvous with the Texas expedition bound for New column set for late May. Mexico. The sight of Major Then, thought Warfield, he Jacob Snively’s 200 wellwould have a real army. equipped Texas troops reAlthough U.S. newspa- vived their sagging spirits pers later portrayed the and enthusiasm for their adventurers as a bunch of original objective. buccaneers, their conWarfield covered duct was above reproach. himself with glory at Taos, Detaining a party of where the vastly inferior traders only to discover the force virtually wiped out travelers were English and the local militia. But American instead of Mex- co-commander Sniveican, Warfield apologized ly opposed his plan to for the mistake and left march on Santa Fe and enormous load of silver inadvertently set the stage and gold untouched. for their mutual defeat. While waiting for the reThe Texans were beaten inforcements, the colonel not on the battlefield but attacked a New Mexican by a fickle friend. Warfield military outpost killing five and Snively welcomed the and capturing 18. Warfield arrival of the U.S. army in promptly freed the prison- the naïve belief that the ers but held onto a bigger soldiers had come to assist prize, a herd of 72 horses. in the armed annexation Running from a second of New Mexico. Not until force far too formidable to they were told to drop fight, the expedition lost their weapons did the every horse, the enemy’s Texans get the picture. and their own, and ended When Warfield grudgup on foot. Nevertheless, ingly gave his word to go they reached the rendezstraight home, he expectvous right on time. ed the American officer in But the Texans never charge to return his conmade it. After hanging fiscated weapons. No one around for several days, in his right mind would Warfield canceled the send men bare-handed cursed campaign and into Comanche country. encouraged everybody But that is exactly to seek safety. what happened. Either Meanwhile, Texas’ through blind luck or point man in Washingdivine intervention, the ton, D.C. was trying to defenseless Texans surdownplay the diplomatic vived the perilous trek. damage. Isaac Van Zandt at first denied any knowlBartee welcomes your edge of the Warfield Expe- comments and questions dition and later assured at barteehaile@gmail. the secretary of state that com or P.O. Box 130011, the secret mission posed Spring, TX 77393 and no threat to American invites you to visit his web interests in the West. site barteehaile.com.

Texas History

Buda, Texas • 15300 S. IH-35 • 312-1615

Debbie Thames, Agent 251 N. FM 1626, Bldg. 2, Ste. C, Buda, Texas 78610 312-1917

Sudoku Solution

NICKEL Steven Dennis Nickel, lifelong resident of Uhland, passed away on August 5, 2021, at the age of 66. He was born on October 18, 1954, in San Marcos, Texas to Albert and Hedwig (Lehman) Nickel. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his sisters, Gerry Johns and Evelyn Foree, his niece Nicole Foree, nephew Blake Foree and wife Nikki, great-nephew Layton Foree and great-niece Parker Foree. Visitation will be Wednesday, August 11, 6-8 p.m. and funeral service will be Thursday, August 12, 10 a.m. both at Pennington Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Live Oak Cemetery in Uhland, Texas. Arrangements in care of Pennington Funeral Home, 323 N. Comanche, San Marcos, Texas 78666. 512-353-4311 ~ www. penningtonfuneralhome. com.

for 37 years with San Marcos Telephone Company/CenturyLink and upon retirement was an Area Plant Supervisor. He was Texas to the core – loved his state, loved his Texas Longhorns, his Texas Rangers and his Dallas Cowboys. You could find him with family, fishing, watching movies or a good family game of poker. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 29 years, Diane Lively Stock, his children Dodi Stock Garza and husband Conrad, Dallas Stock and wife Sara, Delaney Stock and fur babies Sadie & Jasper, his grandchildren, McKenzie, Koleman, Mason, Madison and Brooke, and his youngest brother Darrin Stock. He also leaves behind his

STOCK

cherished O’Neal Family, many cousins and friends near and far. David was preceded in death by his parents, Elo & Ada Stock, infant daughter Dakota and his middle brother Dennis Stock. He will be buried with his faithful yellow lab companion Hondo. In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to be made in David’s honor to Heart to Heart Hospice of San Marcos or the American Cancer Society. Arrangements will be on Saturday, August 14th at Pennington Funeral Home in San Marcos with a same day viewing at 9am and Service at 10am. Procession will immediately follow to Memory Lawn in Martindale for his burial.

Solidified remains are a clean alternative to ashes that allow you to live comfortably with your departed.

Our father, husband and friend, David Lynn Stock of Lockhart, Tx passed away on August 6, 2021 at the age of 67. David was born in Nixon, Tx on Sept. 23, 1953 to Ada O’Neal Stock and Elo Stock. He was the oldest of 3 boys. He grew up in Central Texas and spent a lot of his younger adult years playing men’s softball. He was employed

Call us to learn more 512-443-1366 www.HarrelFuneralHomes.com

CHURCH OF CHRIST

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

Buda-Kyle Church of Christ 3.5 miles south of Buda on FM 2770

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

BAPTIST

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

EPISCOPAL

Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda First Baptist Church-Kyle 300 W. Center St., Kyle Hays Hills Baptist Church 1401 FM 1626, Buda

Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626 Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda

Texas Crossword, from page 5

the 7A Resort train. Patrons will get to ride the train with a narrator to experience the haunted scenes. Anyone wishing to help should email hauntedprioneertown@gmail. com.

OBITUARY

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor

Texas Crossword Solution

Wimberley, and the group is searching for actors and need performers for some creative roles in the haunted scenes. Part of the program will include a Haunted Pioneer Town Train Ride of Terror, using

Come worship with us

Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 5

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church 725 RR 967, Buda St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church RR 3237 (Wimberley Rd.), Kyle St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 11819 IH-35 South JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses FM 2770, Kyle Jehovah’s Witnesses South 10802 Manchaca Rd., Manchaca LUTHERAN Living Word Lutheran ELCA 2315 FM 967, Buda Redeeming Grace Lutheran LCMS FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca Resurrection Church, CLBA 401 FM 967, Buda St. John Lutheran Church 9865 Camino Real, Uhland The Well Buda Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda

Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda

Spring Water! Privately owned From local springs FREE DELIVERY 1ST 20 GAL. FREE

Vertical Chapel 400 Old Post Road, Kyle A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle

Friendly, Courteous Service

Fellowship Church at Plum Creek 160 Grace Street at 2770, Kyle

Call 1-866-691-2369

Word of Life Christian Faith Center 118 Trademark Drive, Buda

BUDA

Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle

DRUG STORE

203 Railroad Street Downtown Buda Pharmacy 312-2111 Fountain 312-2172

PENTECOSTAL Mision de Casa de Oracion S. Hwy. 81, Kyle

Journey United Methodist 4301 Benner Rd, Kyle, Tx

CHRISTIAN

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor

New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda

Manchaca United Methodist Church FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca

St. John’s Presbyterian Church 12420 Hewitt Ln., Manchaca

Iglesia Israelita Casa de Dios 816 Green Pastures Dr., Kyle

Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170

First Presbyterian Church 410 W. Hutchison, San Marcos, TX 78666

New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd. PRESBYTERIAN

First Baptist Church

A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161 Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m. Morning Worship....................................10:45 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m. AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m.

www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626

Pure Texas

New Covenant Community Church 1019 Main Street, Buda (in Dance Unlimited)

St. Michael’s Catholic Church S. Old Spanish Trail, Uhland

Adult (including an 8:30 a.m. early bird class), teen, children’s classes * Children’s worship Professionally-staffed nursery & pre-school

Providing you with your most important local news for Kyle, Buda and surrounding communities

Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda

Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle

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

St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle

Baptist Church

Like us on Facebook

Trinity United Chuch of Niederwald 13700 Camino Real, Hwy. 21, Niederwald

METHODIST

Hays Hills

TEXAS LEHIGH CEMENT CO. LP

Nursery Provided

www.firstbaptistbuda.com • fbcbuda@austin.rr.com

Your Hometown McDonald’s

McDonald’s of Buda 15359 IH-35, Ste. B • P.O. Box 1364, Buda, TX 78610

512-312-2383

Locally owned and operated by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning

11:00 AM

Sunday Worship

5:45 PM

Wednesday Meal

6:30 PM

Wed TouchPoint SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries

A Family of Faith... www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org

(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

Hays CISD COVID protocols for new season With the upsurge in COVID-19 cases due to the Delta variant, the Hays CISD COVID Response Team put together requirements and suggestions for this school year. These protocols will begin on Monday, Aug. 16. While the Texas Education Agency (TEA) does not require contact tracing, Hays CISD will do it anyway. The district is not required to report positive cases, but the district will provide notification anyway. If a staff member or student tests positive, regardless if he or she has been vaccinated, that person is required to quarantine (currently 10 days). Anyone who has not tested positive, but has been in close contact with a person who tested positive, will be required to quarantine if they have not been vaccinated. Students can attend remote conferencing during their required quarantine, per TEA. Teachers on remote learning will not be students’ regular teachers, but will focus on remote conferencing.

While the governor has decreed that school districts cannot require masks, Hays CISD strongly recommends them and is urging people to wear them at school. While some school districts across the state are defying the governor’s order, Hays CISD said it does not have the enforcement power to require masks. The district is declaring a moratorium on non-essential large gatherings, including the district’s annual convocation. The district will keep this order in effect until this wave of COVID has safely subsided. A 50% fan capacity at athletic venues, including Shelton Stadium will be set. Current ticket sales will be honored, but fans will be spread out for social distancing safety. If more than 50% of tickets have not been sold for a particular venue, the venus will cap sales at 50% capacity. Campuses will be closed to regular visitors and all non-essential personnel. HCISD Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright put out a release this week for all

parents, saying, “The best advice is to get vaccinated if you qualify. We can speed up our return to normalcy by encouraging everyone to get shots. Looking at the graphs of new cases for the state and for Hays County, we are seeing numbers that are not as high as the peak last winter, but they are higher than what we saw at the start of last school year. This is not the way we wanted to start the 2021 -2022 school year, but we will make the best of it.”

Page 7

Capital Highlights Continued from pg. 5

ing with their local Farm Service Agency office. To find a local office, go to farmers.gov/service-locator or call 877-508-8364.

ingly low, odds are high that it’s a scam. • Take your time. Be skeptical when sellers claim they must sell quickly because they’re moving soon, or say they need to sell the vehicle for a relative. And never pay for a vehicle with gift cards. • Some scammers use the same photo on different sites, with different prices and contact information. This scam can be avoided by using a “reverse image search.” To learn how, look up “reverse search” in your preferred search engine. • See the vehicle in person and take it for a

AVOID SCAMS WHEN BUYING A USED VEHICLE With used-vehicle demand soaring and inventories shrinking, it’s easy to fall victim to scams, according to the Texas Department of Insurance. At least part of most sales now take place either on apps or online, and a lot can go wrong. Here are some tips from TDI to avoid being swindled: • If the price is amaz-

drive. Buying a vehicle sight unseen can lead to disaster. • Check the VIN to make sure the vehicle wasn’t stolen, flooded or totaled after a wreck. A VIN search will also ensure there isn’t a lien on the vehicle you are buying. 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. gborders@texaspress.com

We proudly support our hometown talent Texas hometown friendly bank

512-858-5159

401 E. Hwy 290W. P.O. Box 1243 Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Service Directory Computer Help

Air Conditioning

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Residential • Commercial • After Hours Available Email: Chris@nemecheatingandair.com O. 512-312-9081 • C. 512-789-5132 Buda, Texas 78610 • TACLA 34861C

Consulting Setup Training Backups Upgrades

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Component Selection Digital Photos System & Process Docs Website Maintenance CD/DVD Duplication

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Want help selecting the best value? Office systems not maintained? Did your kids or employees leave your computer useless?

512-858-7952

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Legal Services Attorneys and Counselors At Law

Zachary Barton

Zachary Barton 512-686-7589 512-686-7589 107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX

130 Hall Professional Center, Kyle, TX 78640

512-268-6425

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Carver’s Critter Sitter For the comfort of your beloved pet.

BUSINESS LAW/ WILLS/TRUSTS/ PROBATE/FAMILY LAW/DIVORCE/ CUSTODY/ CONSUMER LAW/ DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES ACT/ PROPERTY LAW/ LANDLORD-TENANT LAW/PERSONAL INJURY/DWI/ CRIMINAL DEFENSE/ DEBT/DEFENSE/ GENERAL CIVIL LITIGATION

In home pet sitting for large and small critters. Experience with many, will work with any. Kind to animals.

Insured P.O. Box 11 Driftwood, TX 78619 ccsittertx@gmail.com

For all the latest news in Hays County, visit

rince

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• Residential Repair Specialist • Remodeling & Water Heaters • Sewer Cleaning & Replacements • Slab & Gas Leak Repair • BBB Member

• 40 yrs. Experience • Family Owned • Family Operated • Backflow Testing and Devices

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and large like ing out. FREE ESTIMATES e number. HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE@YAHOO.COM HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE.COM

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Septic Services

G&S

Serving S. Austin, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Kyle and Buda since 1994.

512-326-4695

To subscribe call 512-268-7862 or email paper@haysfreepress.com

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Remodeling & Repairs

Septic Services

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ALL AMERICAN SEPTIC SOLUTIONS, LLC

O Painting O Tile O Siding O Decks O Trim O Door & Window Replacement O Drywall Repair O Custom Cabinets O Patio Covers O Electrical & Plumbing

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Septic Repair & Installation Specialist

Curtis Dorsett 512-402-4704

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Septic Tank Pumping & Servicing

Tank Lid Replacements & Tank Refurbishing

Aerobic System Servicing

Septic Inspections & Consulting

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Hydrojetting & Pump Replacements

Septic Systems ENTERPRISES, INC. SELLMAN

Shoe Repair

(512)

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• Boot Experts • Purse Repair • Belt Repair • Luggage Repair • Shoe Care Products

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Tree Service

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38 years experience in the hill country Firewood • Pruning • Removal • Chipping

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Will do house sitting also

Pool and Spa Service

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MC • Visa

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Financial Planning Financial Planning

107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX

Loam • Topsoil • Sand • Gravel • Roadbase Asphalt Millings • Granite • Compost Mix Tractor Work Available Specializing in Country Driveways

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10locations locations in in Central 10 Central Texas Texas,including: including: 1911 Manchaca • 512-440-8788 3932Ben RR White 620 S.and in Bee Caves Rd • 512-263-4630 316 Round Rock Ave. Round Rock 512-244-9124 12119 and Nutty • 512-827-3398 1911 W W. Hwy Ben 290 White Blvd. in Brown Austin Rd • 512-440-8788 306WSouth Park 6781 HwyBell 290 in Hill- •512-219-8387 512-288-6386 Bee Caves Rd.Cedar in Oak Westlake • 512-329-8104 SEPTIC PUMPING 3300 • CLEANING

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Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on August 4, 2021 in the Hays County Courthouse, 111 E. San Antonio Street, the Hays County Commissioners Court will hold a public hearing to consider: Booky T Subdivision, Lot 1, Replat. A subdivision located at 5500 W Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78610. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512)-393-2150 Option 4.Tracking Number: PLN-1658-PC

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF HAYS CAUSE: 19-0580 By virtue of an Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 22nd District Court of HAYS County, Texas, June 23, 2021, in cause numbered 19-0580, styled POST OAK ONE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. versus Goodman, Mark Allen on a judgment rendered against Goodman, Mark Allen; I did on July 15, 2021,at 2:30 p.m., levy upon as the property of Goodman, Mark Allen the following described real property: Lot 30, BLOCK L, OF POST OAK SUBDIVISION, PHASE 6, A SUBDIVISION IN HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 19, PAGES 11-13, PLAT RECORDS OF HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 257 ALPHA, Kyle, TX 78640 (“Property”) On September 7, 2021, being the first Tuesday of the month, between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., beginning at 10:00 a.m., at the Hays County, at the South Door, 712 Stagecoach Trail of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of San Marcos, Texas, I will sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of Goodman, Mark Allen in and to the real property described above. Dated at Kyle, Hays County, Texas, July 15, 2021. Michael Torres Constable, Pct. 2 Hays County, Texas 5458 FM 2770 Kyle, Texas 78640 by Patrick Chasse, Deputy Notice to Bidders: You are buying whatever interest, if any, the Debtor has in the property. Purchase of the Debtor's interest in the property may not extinguish any liens or security interests held by other persons. There are no warranties, express or implied, regarding the property being sold, including but not limited to warranties

of title, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Notice to Judgment Debtor: If there is any property, real or personal, you want to point out for levy in lieu of the above described property, you must contact this office immediately.

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF HAYS CAUSE: 18-2377 By virtue of an Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 274th District Court of HAYS County, Texas, June 28, 2021, in cause numbered 18-2377, styled POST OAK ONE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. versus ENRIQUE REYES on a judgment rendered against ENRIQUE REYES; I did on July 29, 2021,at 1:30 p.m., levy upon as the property of ENRIQUE REYES the following described real property: Lot 2, Block F, POST OAK, PHASE ONE, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED IN VOLUME 11, PAGES 111113, PLAT RECORDS, HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 299 MUSGRAV, KYLE, TX 78640 (“PROPERTY’) On September 7, 2021, being the first Tuesday of the month, between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., beginning at 10:00 a.m., at the Hays County, at the South Door, 712 Stagecoach Trail of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of San Marcos, Texas, I will sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of ENRIQUE REYES in and to the real property described above. Dated at Kyle, Hays County, Texas, July29, 2021. Michael Torres Constable, Pct. 2 Hays County, Texas 5458 FM 2770 Kyle, Texas 78640 by Patrick Chasse, Deputy Notice to Bidders: You are buying whatever interest, if any, the Debtor has in the property. Purchase of the Debtor's interest in the property may not extinguish any liens or security interests held by other persons. There are no warranties, express or implied, regarding the property being sold, including

Ingrid is a female, 2-year-old, Shepherd Mix. Her ideal adopter would love the outdoors, hiking, and midday naps. Ingrid is ready for her soulmate and wouldn’t mind if that new home included a doggy sibling or two.

but not limited to warranties of title, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Notice to Judgment Debtor: If there is any property, real or personal, you want to point out for levy in lieu of the above described property, you must contact this office immediately.

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF HAYS CAUSE: 18-0508 By virtue of an Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 274th District Court of HAYS County, Texas, JUNE, 15, 2021, in cause numbered 18-0508, styled COMMUNITY OF AMBERWOOD HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. versus Ortiz, Sr., Michael J on a judgment rendered against Ortiz, Sr., Michael J; I did on JULY, 15, 2021,at 1:30 p.m., levy upon as the property of Ortiz, Sr., Michael J the following described real property: Lot 1, BLOCK B OF AMBERWOOD PHASE ONE, A SUBDIVISION IN HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT OF RECORD IN VOLUME 10, PAGE 351 OF THE PLAT RECORDS OF HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS 165 REDWOOD DRIVE, KYLE, TX 78640 (“PROPERTY”) On September, 7, 2021, being the first Tuesday of the month, between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., beginning at 10:00 a.m., at the Hays County, at the South Door, 712 Stagecoach Trail of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of San Marcos, Texas, I will sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of Ortiz, Sr., Michael J in and to the real property described above. Dated at Kyle, Hays County, Texas, JULY 15, 2021. Michael Torres Constable, Pct. 2 Hays County, Texas 5458 FM 2770 Kyle, Texas 78640 by Patrick Chasse, Deputy Notice to Bidders: You are buying whatever interest, if any, the Debtor has in the property. Purchase of the Debtor's

Sparkles is a female, 2-year-old, domestic shorthair mix. This cutie has three loves in life rainbows, granny sweaters, and most importantly naps! Sparkles’ ideal home is a quiet space with lots of hidden places for naps.

PAWS Shelter of Central Texas

is a non-profit, no-kill shelter operated primarily on donations and adoptions.

500 FM 150 E, Kyle, TX • 512 268-1611 • pawsshelter.org

All animals are fully vaccinated, spay/neutered, microchipped and dewormed.

sponsored by

Town & CounTry VeTerinary HospiTal Committed to your pet’s health since 1978

Bill Selman, DVM • Kayley Goldsmith, DVM • Ben Fox, DVM 6300 FM 1327 (East of I35 and Creedmoor) Austin, TX 78747 Give us a call at 512-385-0486

interest in the property may not extinguish any liens or security interests held by other persons. There are no warranties, express or implied, regarding the property being sold, including but not limited to warranties of title, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Notice to Judgment Debtor: If there is any property, real or personal, you want to point out for levy in lieu of the above described property, you must contact this office immediately.

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF COLLIN CAUSE: 04-FC-19-00435 By virtue of an Writ of Execution issued by the Justice of the Peace Precint 4 of Collin County Texas, in cause numbered 04-FC19-00435 , styled Unifund CCR, LLC versus Charles L Broadway on a judgment rendered against Charles L Broadway; I did on June 30, 2021, at 1.00 p.m., levy upon as the property of Charles L Broadway the following described real property: Lot NINE-B (9-B) SUNRISE ACRES, A SUBDIVISION OF HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 2, PAGES 346-348, PLAT RECORDS OF HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS. On September 7, 2021, being the first Tuesday of the month, between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., beginning at 10:00 a.m., at the Hays County, at the South Door, 712 Stagecoach Trail of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of San Marcos, Texas, I will sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of Charles L Broadway in and to the real property described above. Dated at Kyle, Hays County, Texas, June 30, 2021. Michael Torres Constable, Pct. 2 Hays County, Texas 5458 FM 2770 Kyle, Texas 78640

by Patrick Chasse, Deputy Notice to Bidders: You are buying whatever interest, if any, the Debtor has in the property. Purchase of the Debtor's interest in the property may not extinguish any liens or security interests held by other persons. There are no warranties, express or implied, regarding the property being sold, including but not limited to warranties of title, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Notice to Judgment Debtor: If there is any property, real or personal, you want to point out for levy in lieu of the above described property, you must contact this office immediately.

NOTICE OF SALE Morningstar Storage wishes to avail themselves of the Texas Provision of chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code by conducting a Public Sale to the highest bidder for cash on their premises. This sale is listed below. The company reserves the right to reject any bid and withdraw any from the sale at any time. Date : 08/25/2021 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Storage Auctions.com Unit: 1007 – Lisa Reeves: Totes, pool, pool ladder, exercise bike, chair, household décor. Unit 3032 – Michael Guerrero: Table, totes, entertainment center, furniture. Unit 2035 – Timothy Mueggenborg: Table, shop vac, TV, fishing poles, old typewriter. A111– John Beech: Mech tools, straps, x cord, auto tester, car host

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Mario Guadalupe Silva, Deceased, were granted on June 28, 2021, under Docket No. 21-0211-P, pending in the County Court of Law No. 1 of Hays County, Texas, to Mary Estella Loza, who qualified to serve as Independent Executor without bond on

July 6, 2021. Claims may be presented in care of the Executor for the estate, addressed as follows: Mary Estella Loza Independent Executor 572 Faircrest Drive Buda, Texas 78610 All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. Dated: August 3, 2021 By /s/ Criston E. Klotz, Attorney for Executor The Klotz Law Firm 10120 Clemente Circle Austin, TX 78737-1030

CITY OF BUDA LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to City of Buda Charter, Article III, Section 3.11 (D). Ordinances, that the Buda City Council, at its regular meeting on August 3, 2021, adopted an Ordinance granting an exclusive franchise to Texas Disposal Systems, Inc. for municipal solid waste collection and disposal services including residential, commercial, industrial, and roll-off services; providing for penalties for failure to comply with such ordinances; providing for publication; and, providing for an effective date. By: Mayor Lee Urbanovsky. Attest: Alicia Ramirez, City Clerk. (full text is available in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, TX, during business hours and on www.ci.buda. tx.us.)

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE An application has been submitted with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 13.140 acres of property located at the SE corner of Hunter Road and Posey Road, San Marcos, TX 78666. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: PLN-1457-NP”.

PUBLIC NOTICES, 9

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

Page 9

Classifieds NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE An application has been submitted with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 1.41acres of property located along Main St and Campo Del Sol Parkway, Buda, TX 78610. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services 512393-2150. Tracking number PLN-1717-NP.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Hays CISD is Requesting Proposals for RFP #06072102VL Card Reader Replacements. Proposals will be accepted until 08-27-2021 at 2:00 p.m. local time. A pre-proposal conference will be held on Tuesday, August 3, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the Hays CISD Central Administration Building Annex A, 21003 IH 35, Kyle, TX 78640. Campus visits will follow. Specifications are available in the HCISD Purchasing Office (512-268-2141 ext. 45092) 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 Proposals will be returned unopened. The HCISD Board of Trustees

PRAYER

HOME FOR RENT

PUBLIC NOTICES Interstate 35 Business (B-3) to Light Industrial (LI) for the property known as Lifschultz Subdivision, Lots 52, 53 and 54, Hays County, Texas, being 9 +/- acres and addressed as 100, 108, and 110 Rodriguez Street, Buda, TX (Z 21-02); providing for penalties for failure to comply with such ordinances; providing for publication; and, providing for an effective date. By: Mayor Lee Urbanovsky. Attest: Alicia Ramirez, City Clerk. (full text is available in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, TX, during business hours and on www.ci.buda. tx.us.)

LARGE HOME IN COUNTRY SETTING

Four BR, 2.5 bath, two living rooms, fire place, large office. Sits on 3/4 acre. Will be available in August 2021. Easy access to Hays High School. $2,300/month. Includes water & trash, Small dogs (under 20 pounds) allowed with non-refundable deposit. Call for information. Cyndy, 512-753-2700.

MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for favors. This time I ask you for a very special one (mention one). Take it Dear Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in your merciful eyes it will become your favor not mine. Amen.

MOVING/ESTATE SALE MOVING/ESTATE SALE

Everything must go! Saturday & Sunday, August 14 & 15. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 700 Meadow Oaks Drive, Dripping Springs, TX. Furniture, nick-nacks and then some.

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL NOTICE

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Mixed Beverage Permit by Dog ‘n’ Bone L.L.C. dba Dog ‘n’ Bone to be located at 310 Old Fitzhugh Rd., Dripping Springs, Hays County, Texas. Officers of said corporation are Michael Pelland-Gagielo, Managing Member, Cindy Pelland-Gagielo, Managing Member, Robert Christy, Managing Member, and Christine Christy, Managing Member.

NOTICE OF RULES ADOPTED BY REUNION RANCH WATER CONTROL AND IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT Reunion Ranch Water Control and Improvement District, a political subdivision of the State of Texas (the “District”) has adopted Rules the Regulations Governing Water and Sanitary Sewer Facilities, Service Lines, Connections, Erosion Control, Drainage Facilities and District Property (the “Rules”) governing the design, installation and inspection of all connections and taps made to the District’s water distribution system and sanitary sewer collection system, the limitations of the flow of waste into the sanitary sewer system and drainage system, protection of all facilities which are part of the District’s waterworks, sanitary sewer system and drainage system, and the enforcement of these Rules. The foregoing Rules of the District provide for penalties for violations. The Rules, pursuant to Texas Water Code §49.004, impose the following civil penalties for breach of any rule or regulation of the District: The violator shall pay the District twice the costs the District has sustained due to the violation up to $10,000.00. A penalty is in addition to any other penalty provided by the laws of this State and may be enforced by complaints filed in the appropriate court of jurisdiction in the county in which the District’s principal office or meeting place is located. Under Section 51.128 of the Texas Water Code, rules adopted by the District are recognized by the courts in the same manner as penal ordinances of a city, which may be enforced under Texas Local Government Code §54.012. If the District prevails in any suit to enforce the Rules, it may, in the same action, recover any reasonable fees for attorneys, expert witnesses and other costs incurred by the District before the court. The amount of the attorneys’ fees shall be fixed by the court. Such civil penalties shall be in addition to any other remedy or penalty provided by state law, including a civil action for injunctive or other relief. A customer found in violation of the Rules shall be liable to the District for all expenses borne by the District including laboratory fees, legal fees, engineering fees and other costs incurred by the District in establishing the violation and resolving the cause of the violation. A customer found in violation of these Rules who causes or contributes to a violation by the District’s Sanitary Sewer Collection System of effluent parameters shall be liable to the District for all expenses or penalties borne by the District, including legal and engineering fees related to any lawsuit filed by federal, state or local authorities regarding violations by the District of effluent parameters applicable to the District’s Sanitary Sewer Collection System. In connection with violations of Erosion Control (Article X of the Rules), failure to adhere to such Erosion Control requirements will subject the violator to a fine of five hundred dollars ($500.00) for the first violation and seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00) for the second and subsequent violations per lot per day to be paid by the builder, developer, corporation or other entity or individual who violates such Rules, to be paid to the District. In addition, the District may also impose the cost of replacement of District property or the cost associated with trash removal plus a 15% administrative fee for violations of the Erosion Control requirements. Pursuant to Texas Water Code §51.241, a person who violates the Rules commits a criminal offense classified by statute as a Class C Misdemeanor and is subject to criminal prosecution. Any violations of the Rules may be reported to local authorities and/or prosecutors. Persons prosecuted for violation of the Rules shall also be subject to any additional federal, state and local criminal and penal provisions. Each method of enforcing the Rules is cumulative of the others, and the exercise of any rights hereunder shall not divest the District of any other rights of enforcement or remedies. Nothing in the Rules shall be construed as a waiver of the District’s right to bring a civil action to enforce the provisions of the Rules, and to seek all remedies and damages as allowed by law. Other violations of the Rules may result in termination of services. The full text of the Rules is on file in the principal office of the District, c/o Willatt & Flickinger, PLLC, 12912 Hill Country Boulevard, Ste. F-232, Austin, Texas 78738, Phone: (512) 476-6604, where it may be read by any interested person. Persons who want a copy may contact that office.

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that on Sept.15, 2021, the Lower Colorado Regional Water Planning Group (Region K) will hold a pre-planning public meeting to obtain public input on the development of the 2026 Regional Water Plan and the 2027 State Water Plan (the Plans), including the Scope of Work – 2026 Regional Water Plans, and including issues that should be addressed or provisions that should be included in the Plans. Region K members will also discuss the potential process for conducting interregional coordination regarding water management strategies during development of the regional water plan. By issuance of this Public Notice, a comment period is active until 30 days past the Sept. 15 meeting. Members of the public may submit written and oral comments regarding the 2026 Regional Water Plan and the 2027 State Water Plan and the process for conducting interregional coordination regarding water management strategies during development of the regional water plan. Written comments will be accepted from August 16, 2021, through Oct. 15, 2021, and may be submitted to Annette Keaveny, Lower Colorado River Authority, P.O. Box 220, Austin, TX 78767-0220 or administrative@regionk.org. Oral comments may be submitted during the public meeting at 10 a.m. on Sept. 15, 2021, at LCRA’s Dalchau Service Center, 3505 Montopolis Drive, Austin, Texas. Oral comments may not exceed three minutes per speaker. The recently completed 2021 Region K Water Plan and a map of the Region K planning area and the scope of work for the 2026 Regional Water Plan are available at www. regionk.org.

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.

OPENING FOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Opening for Executive Director at senior center in Buda. Send resume to Onion Creek Senior Center, P.O. Box 65, Buda, TX 78610

TECHNICAL WRITER

Technical Writer for media content co. Mail to Nearshore Link Inc., 740 Bunton Reserve Blvd., Kyle, TX 78640.

TIM KINGSLEY PLUMBING LLC

MASTER LICENSES # 15759 Looking for a Repair Plumber and New Construction Plumber. Benefits offered and salary negotiable. Call Matt Kingsey 512 487-1787

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Opportunities Include: Landscape Workers, Welder, CDL Drivers, Temporary Special Event Workers, Mechanics, and more.

Visit our website www.texasdisposal.com/careers to view and apply! For more information call 512-329-1778

Sign-On Bonus Available* *Certain positions

Remodeled Farm House For Rent Available Sept. 15 • $1,650 (water included) 2 BR 1.5 BA small study fenced yard

For additional information, contact Annette Keaveny, administrator for Region K, at 512578-2271 or administrative@regionk.org. The Region K Public Meeting addressing the development of the 2026 Region K regional water plan, scope of work, and discussing interregional coordination will take place at the following location at the specified date and time: Public Meeting: Sept. 15, 2021 Time: 10 a.m. LCRA Dalchau Service Center, Bldg. A 3505 Montopolis Drive Austin, TX 78744

Call Cyndy • 512-753-2700 • 1st & last month rent required, plus deposit 1 mile north of Hays High School • Rent includes water

Page 10 STATE NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 11, 2021

Veteran Services Continued from pg. 1

The Hope 4 Hays County Veterans program will begin to offer assistance for car insurance, cell phone bills and medical assistance devices not obtained through the Veterans Administration. Funds will be managed by Hays County through a $100,000 grant from the

Texas Veterans Commission Fund for Veterans Assistance. These funds will help find a solution to financial problems veterans and their families experience through improving their quality of life, said Hays County Case Manager Cheryl Robinson.

“Money-related issues are a source of anxiety for many veterans’ families,” Robinson explained. “The threat of being evicted, losing their home or not being able to have needed medical assistance devices is a daily source of stress.” Veterans and their

families also have access to other services if the grant is not an option. Robinson’s group can put them in touch with local and state service agencies for further assistance ranging from job training, technical skill building to counseling for addiction, she added.

If veterans and their families would like further assistance or have any questions, they can reach out to Robinson at cheryl. robinson@co.hays.tx.us. Or call the Hays County Veterans Services Office at 512-392-8387, or 512781-8489. The website is www.hayscountytx.com/

departments/veteran-services. “After all, these men and women who served our country were here for us when we needed them,” Robinson said. “With the Hays County Hope 4 Veterans program, we can be there for them in their time of need.”

World Series

Continued from pg. 1 the games. In preparation for the series, the team practiced up to four times a week in the mornings or evenings. Beasley said the kids were very excited about the prospect of going to Louisiana. “They thought it was the coolest thing,” Beasley said. “Every practice, it’s all they could talk about. We showed them that we were traveling outside of Texas and competing against kids from other states. To be able to do that is something they’re going to always remember.” To raise money for the series, the team held a BBQ benefit on July 10 and a fundraiser through MOD Pizza in Kyle where a percentage of sales went to the team if customers said they were supporting HYBSA. Along with donations from numerous parents, friends, local sponsors and other community members, HYBSA’s Mustang team, consisting of 9- and 10-year-old players, and Bronco team, consisting of

“To be able to come back full circle and see what those kids are doing at their age is way beyond what my generation did at their age. The comprehension of the sport; the ability to stay focused throughout the tournaments. You could see it in their eyes and the way they played that they were giving it everything they had. They were so committed to the team.” than we were able to teach them in such a short time together.” One player in particular, five-year-old Lydia Lopez, had the experience of being the only girl on the team. Her mother Melody Lopez said that Lydia fit right in and was happy to be out on the field playing with them. “She just wanted to be one of the boys,” Lopez said. “We talked to her about playing softball, but she didn’t want to. She wants to play with the boys, being tough, getting dirty and doing all the same things they do.” Lopez said that Lydia, who will continue playing baseball in the fall with the boys, tends to stand out on the field. She even

caught the attention of an umpire during the team’s regular season, who gave Lydia a signed game ball and said that despite rarely seeing girls out on the field with the boys, players like her with great attitudes tend to go far in the sport. Lopez also praised the entire team’s efforts, saying they all kept a great attitude throughout the journey. “All of the kids were so great,” Lopez said. “They didn’t complain; they loved it. Even in the heat. They all really impressed us.” Beasley, who grew up playing baseball for Hays, said it was an honor to coach the kids at the same fields he grew up playing

out to send the team off to the World Series, and the Kyle Police Department, which bought plates during the BBQ fundraiser, the community as a whole contributed greatly. “The community did everything they could for the kids,” Lopez said. “It really did surprise us how on. much everyone wanted “To be able to come to take part in helping out back full circle and see and showing up to the what those kids are doing games. It was really nice.” at their age is way beyond Beasley said that despite what my generation did the results not being what at their age,” Beasley said. the team had hoped for, “The comprehension of it was an honor to coach the sport; the ability to the kids and see what stay focused throughout they were able to achieve the tournaments. You together. could see it in their eyes “That’s the thing about and the way they played sports,” Beasley said. that they were giving it “There are so many life everything they had. They lessons to be taught. You were so committed to the fall down, you get back up. team.” You get hurt, you get back The team’s coaches up. You’re on the field for and parents also stressed your teammates. To be the importance of how part of something that is much the community has bigger than yourself, and helped the team. for these kids to be able to Lopez said that along understand that at four, with support from the Kyle five and six, just blows Fire Department, which my mind. It was truly an brought their fire trucks honor.”

tained damage on the front grill and may have a defective passenger side headlight.

If residents have any information, they can contact the Kyle Police Department at 512-268-

3232, or to remain anonymous, they can submit information online at www.p3tips.com.

–Kris Beasley, Assistant Coach

11- and 12-year-old players, also donated money. The team played a total of five games at the World Series. Although Hays didn’t win, Rodriguez said that each player’s willingness to better themselves and ability to face their fears head on knowing what they were competing against showed how far they can go, and made them grow closer together. “Even off the field, their bond grew just from hanging out together at the hotel or our family dinners,” Rodriguez said. “I have no doubt in my mind this experience will push each and every one of them to work harder in the next season and seasons to come. They have taught me so much more

Deadly Hit and Run Continued from pg. 1

after its arrival on the scene. Investigators believe the driver was in a 2010-2012 white Ford

F-150 pick-up with a chrome bumper. Additionally, the truck is believed to have sus-

This is an ongoing investigation; no further information is available at this time.

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