Journey of deported local begins
Lady Tigers take Lions 65-35
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Volunteers rebuild family home
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News-Dispatch Volume XXXIX No. 14
Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982
page 4
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Thursday, January 10, 2019
Wimberley council clarifies role of mayor BY EXSAR ARGUELLO
A pair of ordinance updates meant to limit the powers of Wimberley’s mayor, while strengthening the role of the city administrator, were both approved on a split 3-2 vote Jan. 3. The move came after months of heated dispute among city council members and Mayor Susan Jaggers, which eventually led to the resignation of council member Patricia
“People do run for mayor and they generally understand the role that (the position) is. It’s a ceremonial role, the mayor runs meetings and is not the administrator, and what we do need is this clarity.” –Allison Davis, Wimberley City Council member
Kelly in December 2018. Wimberley, which was incorporated in the 1970s,
is a general law city which, according to state laws, is operated by a city adminis-
trator. However, the approved ordinance update recognizes Wimberley’s mayor as the head JAGGERS of the city for ceremonial purposes, as well as the role of overseeing city council meetings, but has no administrative duties in the city.
Becerra sworn in as Hays County Judge PHOTO BY KATIE BURRELL
Recently elected Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra addresses an overflow crowd during his swearing-in ceremony at the county courthouse in San Marcos.
County Judge Becerra discusses plans after first commissioners court meeting BY KATIE BURRELL Improving Hays County’s criminal justice system and reducing spending across various platforms are two primary issues Ruben Becerra plans to initially tackle as he begins his term as County Judge. Becerra, who claimed the Hays County Judge seat in November, presided over his first official commissioners’ court meeting Jan. 8 to a
“So far, I support what the court has done, and I want to continue to support any effort to foster and shore up additional environmental stewardship. Having access to clean water ways is important.” –Ruben Becerra, newly-sworn in Hays County Judge
full courtroom. Becerra said he hopes to have answers to efficiencies in the county’s
criminal justice system within the next two months. That includes looking into the county’s
practice of outsourcing inmates to neighboring jails due to overcrowding. Currently, the Hays County Jail is undergoing an expansion as part of a $250 million bond measure approved by voters in 2016. Of that amount, $106.4 million was earmarked for jail expansion, as well as a new law enforcement center and 911 system.
JUDGE’S PLANS, 4
Entities turn to new technology to meet water, aquifer demands BY EXSAR ARGUELLO
As urbanization and climate change are impacting aquifers across the country, officials and municipalities are turning to new technologies to meet water demands. For many entities, investing in Aquifer Storage and Recovery
(ASR) systems might be the way to go. ASR, which was first tested and experimented in the 1990s, calls for the pumping of groundwater during periods of heavy supply and storing it in another aquifer for use in times of drought or major drawdown. Kerrville and San An-
tonio were the first two major cities in the state to implement ASR. These efforts are in conjunction with the fourth National Climate Assessment (NCA), a national report from the federal government, which shows climate
AQUIFER IMPACT, 6
In previous city council meetings, Jaggers has occasionally challenged city council votes while trying to expand her administrative duties. The resulting fallout led to Kelly’s resignation, when she said she could no longer work with Jaggers. In addition, city leaders further clarified the role and powers of the city administrator. Clarifications include removing “the mayor” from
a significant portion of the ordinance’s language in regard to the city administrator’s consultation with the city council. That includes removing the mayor from adopting measures that “may be deemed necessary or expedient for the health, safety or welfare of the city and for the municipal services.” According to agenda documents, the purpose of
MAYORAL ROLE, 2
County aims to update food truck restroom regs BY EXSAR ARGUELLO Concerns are growing among local mobile food vendors as Hays County officials seek to update food truck restroom facility regulations. According to a Hays County official, the Department of Developmental Service is currently toying with the idea of requiring some sort of onsite restroom facility for food trucks who are stationary on a plot of land. The inquiry was prompted by an anonymous mobile food vendor who worried about the county’s motives on the proposition, sparking concern that the regulatory changes could be detrimental to business. “These changes are only going in regard to mobile units that are completely stationary at a location, or a food court-type setup,” said Caitlyn Strickland, interim development services director for Hays County. “For mobile food units that are truly mo-
“For mobile food units that are truly mobile, they are not going to be affected. But if you’re stationary, this will help employees and patrons have access to adequate and safe restrooms.” –Caitlyn Strickland, Interim development services director for Hays County
bile, they are not going to be affected. But if you’re stationary, this will help employees and patrons have access to adequate and safe restrooms.” Strickland said the county is not looking to trump city regulations on mobile food vendors
FOOD TRUCK REGS, 4
Wimberley to pay $200K for Black Castle termination BY EXSAR ARGUELLO A $200,000 fee is the amount the city of Wimberley will pay contractor Black Castle after terminating plans for a city-owned wastewater facility. In August 2018, the Wimberley City Council voted to terminate a contract with Black Castle for the facility, leading to six-plus months of closed-door discussions with the entity regarding the issue. According to city officials, the $200,000 termination fee is the best deal the city could have hoped to get. But the contract termination does not account for the nearly $350,000 the city had paid Black Castle to start on construction of the plant. So far, Wimberley will have spent more than $500,000 on the Black Castle contract. The city has not confirmed if the $200,000 includes site mitigation and attorney fees, which,
The contract termination does not account for the nearly $350,000 the city has paid Black Castle to start on construction of the plant. So far, Wimberley will have spent more than $500,000 on the Black Castle contract. according to some residents in close contact with the News-Dispatch, could raise the bill a little more. Council member Gary Barchfeld argued the city would save around $160,000 per year by switching away from a city-owned wastewater treatment plant to third-party wastewater
BLACK CASTLE, 6
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News-Dispatch
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Thursday, January 10, 2019
From Buda to Cuernavaca:
TIMELINE OF EVENTS • October 2017 – Janelie Rodriguez is arrested by Buda Police after she bit an officer during a mental health episode. Rodriguez’ parents contacted Buda Police to assist.
The journey of a deported Hays County resident begins
• January 2018 to July 11, 2018 – Rodriguez is held in the Hays County Jail on felony charges. Those were eventually dropped by Hays County District Judge Bill Henry.
BY EXSAR ARGUELLO For the majority of her life, Janelie Rodriguez’ world centered around Buda and Central Texas. A native of Mexico, Rodriguez’ family emigrated to the U.S. when she was two years old in order to find a better life. But a 2017 incident changed that perspective, as Rodriguez, an undocumented resident who suffers from mental health issues, was transported more than 1,000 miles from home after she was ordered to be deported Dec. 7, 2018 to Mexico. Rodriguez’ story is one of a growing number of similar cases where residents are now trying to find a new way of life in a land they are unfamiliar with. Rodriguez, 26, is reportedly living with her grandparents in Cuernavaca, Mexico, which is 60 miles south of Mexico City, said Chito Vela, Janelie’s attorney. However, it’s unknown if Rodriguez is receiving medication to treat her psychosis. Rodriguez was diagnosed with the condition when she was in her early 20’s. Vela feared minimal contact with Mano Amiga, a local-area advocacy group, has not allowed Rodriguez the chance to obtain needed medications to treat her mental health issues. “I think she is in danger in Mexico, and the evidence overwhelmingly
• July 11-13, 2018 – Hays County Sheriff’s Office officials transfer Rodriguez to Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody based on a detainer placed following her arrest.
Janelie Rodriguez, left, with her mother in Buda
shows that,” Vela said. “Our immigration system is cruel and unreasonable. But I do feel that if Janelie was released on a bond as she should, the outcome would have been different.” Vela said when someone is deported, the individuals are escorted across the bridge where they are barred from re-entering the country. Rodriguez’ stepfather was able to meet her in Nuevo Laredo, where she took a plane to Cuernavaca. But for those who do not have family in Mexico, their fate may be a little different, as the United States government does not provide deported individuals assistance once they cross the border. Karen Munoz, founder of Mano Amiga, said the city of Buda, the Hays County Sherrif’s Office, mental health treatment, the criminal justice system and the United States failed Janelie. “I have worked on cases with people that suffer from mental health issues in the past, but Janelie’s case was different in a lot of ways,” Vela said. “For someone like her, given her
• July 13, 2018 to Dec. 7, 2018 – Rodriguez is held in ICE custody during this time. She was first taken to the T. Don Hutto Residential Center in Austin for processing before she was sent to the South Texas Detention Center in Pearsall. Rodriguez’ attorney filed for asylum on her behalf, but it was ultimately denied by a judge.
situation and how long she was in the United States, Mexico poses a lot of dangers. It will be difficult for her to get medication, but
COMMON GROUND GOALS GOOD
Mayoral Role Continued from pg. 1
the ordinance change was to “enhance the effectiveness and efficiencies of the Office of the City Administrator and the operations of the City of Wimberley.” But both items received pushback, specifically from council members Mike McCullough and Gary Barchfeld. Both stated on numerous occasions that they did not feel comfortable voting on the items since Jaggers was not present at the meeting. “That’s the difference between saying ‘the mayor and the council,’” Council member Craig Fore said. “She is part of the council... and I’m not writing anybody out. I’m just telling the difference between what’s there and what should be there. It’s not about the mayor, it’s about the city administrator.” Fore said the language in the governance policy should refer to the body as “the council,” which helps distinguish the roles with a little more clarity. “People do run for mayor and they generally understand the role that (the position) is,” Councilmember Allison Davis said. “It’s a
more importantly, she does not have the connections to get the treatment she needs. She is not in a place she calls home.”
ceremonial role, the mayor runs meetings and is not the administrator, and what we do need is this clarity.” Davis called the action to amend the ordinance and governance policy diplomatic. She said the mayor is part of the council but does have a role contrary to that of the city administrator.
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Despite resigning Dec. 6, Kelly was not officially voted off the dais until the end of the Jan. 3 meeting. That gave Kelly the opportunity to be the swing vote on key issues during the meeting, including ordinance updates pertaining to Jagger’s role in the city. City council members voted unanimously to accept Kelly’s resignation. Kelly recommended former Mayor Steve Thurber as a possible replacement. The Wimberley City Council will appoint a new council member, which will be submitted for approval in the future. The timeline is unknown on the appointment.
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• Dec. 7, 2018 – Janelie Rodriguez is deported to Mexico. She was initially sent to the U.S./Mexico border in Laredo before making the 750-mile journey to Cuernavaca.
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Thursday, January 10, 2019
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Page 3
Sports
Lady Tigers blowout Lockhart in 65-35 win BY SHANE SCHOLWINSKI
The Dripping Springs Lady Tigers (13-11) took care of business Friday as they rolled to a 65-35 blowout victory over the Lockhart Lady Lions. Playing a primary role in the win was an effective full-court press defense and execution on the offensive end. “We came out and we really needed this win,” Lady Tigers senior point guard Kennedy Donovan said. “After the loss to Crockett we need as many wins as we can get in a row, just it totally boosts everyone’s confidence. Especially when we beat them by so many points, people off the bench get to play, it really boosts morale.” Dripping Springs jumped out to a hot start in the game as it deployed a full-court press that gave the Lady Lions fits in the first half. The Lady Tigers led 31-14 at halftime. Lockhart turned the ball over 23 times in the game, with more than half of those coming in the first two quarters. Dripping Springs forced 11 of its 16 steals in the game in the first half
“We can’t be satisfied with where we are. We’ve got to keep plugging away, keep coming to practice, be hungry. We still want to be district champions, so that goal is still in for us.” –David Norris, Lady Tigers basketball coach
of play, with Lady Tigers sophomore guard Ally Beck snagging four steals. “We’ve been struggling in generating some offense in the middle part of our season, so our press has been a big part of it and we’ve really been working on that to get that right and generate some points,” Dripping Springs head coach David Norris said. “You know just trying to get some easy baskets first and then let some outside shooting kind of come in. Sometimes we get complacent and just shoot outside shots and we needed to try to score some other ways.” Donovan led the team with 13 points, five assists, and three steals for the game. “Kennedy has been building a lot of momentum,” Norris said. “This is her first time playing point
guard, so she has really grown into the position and the past few games she's been doing a great job of that.” Assisting Donovan was junior forward Hannah Pena and sophomore guard Teagan Huslig, who both came off the bench. Both Pena and Huslig, who scored 10 points each, provided a spark for the Tigers. “She (Huslig) is a good shooter, it’s just getting her in and getting some minutes and getting settled,” Norris said. “She showed some signs of that earlier where she can shoot the ball, and she has come in at key times and made some good outside shots, and that kind of got us going a little bit.” Hitting perimeter shots, along with effective play in the paint, were keys
PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III
Dripping Springs sophomore Teagan Huslig (right) takes to the hardwood as she secures possession at the feet of a Lockhart Lady Lions player.
to battling Lockhart’s zone defense, Norris said. Donovan, Beck and Huslig each hit multiple open three-pointers throughout the game, which was created by adequate offensive spacing and team passing. “I thought we did a good job of moving the ball around once we settled
and started to make the extra pass,” Norris said. “They kind of knew what we were going to do, so we built in some little things to counter that.” Now 4-1 in district, Dripping Springs is building team confidence as the Lady Tigers head into the meat of the district
schedule. “We can’t be satisfied with where we are,” Norris said. “We’ve got to keep plugging away, keep coming to practice, be hungry. We still want to be district champions, so that goal is still in for us. They’ve just got to keep improving in every facet.”
Tiger boys basketball takes down LBJ 63-55 BY SHANE SCHOLWINSKI
The Dripping Springs Tigers (14-4) earned their second district win of the season, and sixth win in a row, by fending off a fourth quarter LBJ Jaguar rally en route to a 63-55 win Jan. 2. Efficient offensive play and tough zone defense were pivotal keys in the victory, said Tigers head coach Craig Swannack. “You know the guys just had great effort today; we were very focused and very dedicated,” Swannack said.
“I’m just proud of our team. They wanted this one and they played well.” After a slow start shooting the ball in the first quarter, the Tigers caught fire from three-point range in the second quarter with four made shots from beyond the arc. Within just a few possessions, including three straight buckets by senior guard Enzo Arnold, Dripping Springs gathered a 3018 lead over LBJ. Twelve of Dripping Springs’ 16 points in the second quarter came
“With the amount of work the guys put in is what makes that happen. The extra time they put into the gym every single day to work on their shot, that’s why I have faith. When the shots aren’t falling temporarily, that doesn’t mean that’s going to stay that way forever.” –Craig Swannack, Tiger boys basketball head coach
from beyond the arc. “With the amount of work the guys put in is what
makes that happen. The extra time they put into the gym every single day to
work on their shot, that’s why I have faith,” Swannack said. “When the shots aren’t falling temporarily, that doesn’t mean that’s going to stay that way forever. We believe in our guys and we believe in the work they’ve put in for this team.” Although the Tigers lost the turnover battle, they made up for it with a tough zone defense accompanied with strong defensive rebounding. Dripping Springs’ defense only gave up 32 points through the first three quarters of play,
Education
while also out-rebounding LBJ 37-22 for the game. “LBJ is such a phenomenal team that we just hoped that we could slow them down, and today it worked really well,” Swannack said. “With the zone the guys played our gameplay to perfection, and it’s just something that when they do that it makes the game easier for us to be able to play.” LBJ made things close in the fourth quarter, outscor-
TIGER BOYS HOOPS, 6
Wimberley students gain insight into real world jobs through program SUBMITTED REPORT
owner of Wimberley Mac, said. Innovative opportuniBaker, an Army Veteran, ties for Wimberley High is a partner in the Wimstudents to learn and berley High Practicum develop career-ready skills program, making space, before graduation keeps training, meaningful work one teacher thinking of and certification opportunew programs and collab- nities available to seniors orating with community Antonio Guel and Ahron members. Arroyo. Stephanie Breedyk, “Mr. Baker has inM.Ed., is Wimberley High’s spired me to start my own Career Technology Educa- business someday. I have tion Practicum supervisor. learned so much here, Through the Practicum especially how to properly program, Wimberley High communicate with cusstudents get the chance to tomers,” Guel said. work as an apprentice at Guel said he becomes participating Wimberley more comfortable with area businesses. the daily interactions “Stephanie is amazing that are required for the at pushing students to position. explore new opportunities “I love it,” Guel said. “I and step out of their com- really enjoy working on fort zone,” Scott Baker, devices and making sure
to help customers, so they can head home happy. Part of helping them is making sure I have communicated properly with them to understand their expectations and problems they may be having on their devices.” Guel’s contributions to Baker’s business earned him high marks. “Antonio is truly an enigma for his young age. He comes in and finds things to do without any guidance. I am so excited that he is on my team here. He is definitely an asset and I’m confident that his strong work ethic combined with the experience and certifications we provide him will set him on a path to success in whatever he chooses to do
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COURTESY PHOTO Wimberley High CTE Practicum Supervisor Stephanie Breedyk, looks on as Scott Baker, owner of Wimberley Mac, shows student Antonio Guel the ins and outs of operating a small business.
in the future,” Baker said. Through the Practicum program, students will receive AppleCare Mac Certified Technician (ACMT) and AppleCare iOS Technician and (AMiT) upon completion. “Scott is the perfect example of how the CTE practicum program works
at Wimberley High School. He provides students with their own space to work, positive role modeling and a very clear vision of what a career in the technology field looks like. He goes above and beyond in making this a productive and motivating experience for Antonio and
Ahron,” Breedyk said. Presently, 54 WHS students are learning and working at area businesses. Breedyk’s goal is to grow the program and welcomes local businesses, nonprofits, governments and other community leaders to partner with the district.
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Page 4
News-Dispatch
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Community center volunteers come together to rebuild home for San Marcos family BY KATIE BURRELL
From the moment her family moved into their San Marcos home in 1969, Rebecca Ramirez’ childhood residence symbolized the love and loss they all experienced. As the structure of the Ramirez family changed over time, so did the structure of the house. Time, along with wear and tear, impacted the home, which made it tough for the family make fixes. Through the help of the community, the future of the Ramirez household is looking brighter. Earlier this month, volunteers at the Southside Community Center lent a hand in renovating a home that once held a family of seven people and, at times, fed Hays County’s homeless population. The Capital Area Housing Finance Corporation
split $75,000 between three Hays County organizations in December, one being the Southside Community Center in San Marcos. Ramirez grew up with members of Southside Community Center, which had helped the family before. Now the family’s home will be entirely re-leveled, repainted and will receive a new, safer roof. “I’m just really grateful,” Ramirez said. “I knew the house wasn’t that great, but I didn’t realize how much was wrong with it until, like, people came in and looked.” Currently, Ramirez lives in the home with her mother and her brother, Augustine Rodriguez, who is undergoing dialysis treatments. Ramirez works at Texas State University and supports her family almost entirely, a work ethic that she said she learned
from her parents. “When I was younger, my dad was always doing everything on his own,” Rodriguez said. “He repaired and fixed everything. My mom stayed home, but she took care of us and the neighborhood kids which is how we got to know people at the community center.” Ruben Garza, executive director of the community center, said the family has always been supportive community members and he plans to do more projects in the future for other Hays County families. “There are plenty of deserving families, but at this time we couldn’t think of anyone more deserving. The homeless kids (Dominga) helped when her kids were young are grown up now and doing well. It’s time (the Ramirez family) gets what they need too.” Volunteers will arrive in
COURTESY PHOTOS
Inset, Rebecca Rodriguez sits with her mother, Dominga and her brother, Augustine, in their home the night before they moved out. The following day, contractors tore down their walls to redo their installation. Work on the home will continue through February. Right, contractor Cade Crowder and his team tear down the inside of the Rodriguez family home Monday afternoon, in an effort to re-insulate the structure to provide a safer home for the family.
February to renovate the bathrooms in the home, while local contractors are reinsulating the entire home and adding new
drywall. “It feels good to be able to take care of my family,” Ramirez said. “I wish I could do it all on my
own for my pride, but I’ve always been proud of my parents and the kind of people they were. I’m very grateful for the help.”
Judge’s Plans: Addresses jail expansion, environmentalism, spending Continued from pg. 1
“We’re addressing the jail of course, the expansion,” Becerra said. “But I don’t consider that a solution. What I want to do, while we have new judges stepping into spaces at this moment in time, we have the opportunity to see the process through fresh eyes.” Becerra said the system’s greatest strength is those who currently work within the process, from the jail to the courts. However, Becerra said there are inefficiencies that exist within the process, from arrest to incarceration to trial. Becerra said he expects to have a plan within two months. Environmentalism is
Becerra’s second biggest focus for the year. In recent months, Hays County’s Commissioners Court voted to support Protect Our Blanco, an organization against the city of Blanco’s proposed wastewater treatment plant expansion, which could increase the amount of treated effluent discharge into the Blanco River. Locally, Buda and Kyle are both working toward updating and expanding their wastewater treatment plants to accommodate for growth. “So far, I support what the court has done, and I want to continue to
support any effort to foster and shore up additional environmental stewardship,” Becerra said. “Having access to clean water ways is important.” As his term progresses, Becerra also hopes to
“We have opportunities to revisit and renegotiate,” Becerra said. “I got the bill for what we pay on pharmaceutical. I want to find a way to bring more competitiveness to that, to bring the cost down.”
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Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM
Continued from pg. 1
Sunday Morning
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Sunday Worship
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Wednesday Meal
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the proposed changes in unincorporated areas of the county are concerning. An on-site septic system could cost a property owner around $65,000 to $70,000. Warren said as the business owner of the property, he is required to hire services for pumping grey water on a weekly basis, which is costly but necessary for business. “We are required to use these services to pump water out of our facilities,” Warren said. “I don’t understand why, if we already have these measures in place, we would need septic.” Hays County Commissioners are expected to discuss the potential changes in the summer. If approved, the proposed changes wouldn’t go into effect until 2020. Strickland said even if changes are made in 2019, the county will not enforce these new regulations until the next year, as officials are not in support of enforcing changes in the middle of a calendar year. Warren said the proposed changes are “taking away from the American dream.” “These families in our park support themselves with their food trucks. If we are forced to close because of strict regulations, Dripping Springs would lose six diverse options for dining, which to me, is the point of food trucks,” Warren said. “It allows people to enjoy whatever types of food they want, all in one area.”
revisit how the county is operating the Indigent Health Care Program, a state-mandated program requiring counties to provide assistance to qualifying residents who do not have health insurance.
Worship in a church of your choice
Food Truck Regs unless invited to do so by a municipality. The proposed changes will only affect mobile vendors who operate outside of a city’s jurisdiction. Cities such as Buda, Dripping Springs and Kyle in recent years have crafted specific ordinances related to food trucks. Although preliminary, the county is looking to require either an on-site septic system or connection to city utility lines, pertinent on location. According to the county, requiring Porta-Pottie’s are a possibility, but not likely, as officials believe permanent restroom facilities are optimal. The potential change has some vendors worried, including Dripping Springs food truck and property owner Bill Warren. For most of 2018, Warren spent months seeking approval from the City of Dripping Springs to operate a mobile food truck park – a fight that was costly and timely. Currently, Warren operates his own food truck, Pig Pen BBQ, alongside six other vendors at his location along U.S. 290. “The reason we started a food truck is that we didn’t have the capital to open a brick and mortar,” Warren said. “And that’s the case for all of us. We made this decision because unless you have half a million dollars in the bank, this is the most economical choice.” While he operates within Dripping Springs city limits, Warren said
reduce spending across multiple platforms with the goal of maintaining quality. “We have opportunities to revisit what we’re doing as a county for our residents,” Becerra said. Becerra also hopes to
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Classifieds Thursday, January 10, 2019
www.HaysNewsDispatch.com
Public Notices PUBLIC NOTICE
By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on Tuesday, January 22, 2019 at 9 a.m. in the Hays County Courthouse, 111 San Antonio Street, the Hays County Commissioners Court will hold a public hearing to consider: Replat of Lot 113, Rolling Oaks, Section Four, Establishing Lots 113A and 113B, Hays County, Texas.
Page 5
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January 19, 2019
El Campo Livestock Auction
Experience preferred. Must have DOT physical and be willing to keep logs. No DUIs in last 10 years, clean MVR.
El Campo, Texas
Apply Online at www.qualitydriveaway.com or call 574-642-2023
For information:
www.cattlemansale.com
Adrian Knight Tx Lic #11102 903-452-7591
Employment
TexSCAN Week of January 6, 2019 AUCTION The City of Dripping Springs is currently accepting applications for the full-time position of Maintenance Worker. The application and full job description are available on the employment page at www.cityofdrippingsprings. com or at 511 Mercer Street. Call City Hall at (512) 858-4725 or email Michelle Fischer at mfischer@ cityofdrippingsprings.com for more information.
BASEBALL BASEBALL TOURS – See MLB Games at Fenway Park, Yankee Stadium, Wrigley Field, etc. Deluxe motor coach transportation, quality hotels and game tickets. Free brochure 507-217-1326.
CHARITY Donate a boat or car today to Boat Angel. 2-Night Free Vacation. Sponsored by Boat Angel Outreach Centers to stop crimes against children. 800-700-BOAT, www.boatangel.com.
CAREER TRAINING Airline Mechanic Training - Get FAA certification. Approved for military benefits. Financial aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance, 800-475-4102.
HELP WANTED Local distillery needs energetic and detailoriented individual to help in bottling with fork truck experience. 830-833-3033.
LEGAL ASSISTANCE Roundup®, a common weed and grass killer, may be linked to the development of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in farm workers and employees in garden centers, nurseries, and landscapers. Call 800-460-0606 for professional insight or visit www.RespectForYou. com/NHL.
SHUTTLE DRIVER NEEDED FOR SAN MARCOS AREA CDL with passenger endorsement required. Contact Cory, 314-422-2020 or ggaoil@yahoo.com
WE BUY
OIL AND GAS RIGHTS
41st Annual Cattleman Bull & Female Sale, 12 Noon, Jan. 19, 2019, El Campo Livestock Auction, El Campo, TX. Adrian Knight Tx Lic #11102 Kelly Conley Tx Lic #9558. 903-452-7591, 903-850-3449, www.cattlemansale.com.
EMPLOYMENT NOTICE
Kelly Conley Tx Lic #9558 903-850-3449
including Non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI) Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation.
CALL TODAY: 806.620.1422
LOBO MINERALS, LLC PO Box 1800 • Lubbock, TX 79408-1800
REAL ESTATE
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TRUCK DRIVERS Be Your Own Boss! Get Paid to See the Country! Quality Drive-Away is looking for CDL Drivers to deliver new trucks. www.qualitydriveaway.com, 574-642-2023.
WANTED
LoboMineralsLLC@gmail.com
Donate A Boat or Car Today!
“2-Night Free Vacation!”
800 - 700 - BOAT (2628)
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sponsored by boat angel outreach centers
ATTENTION WEST Texas Hunters/Fur harvesters. Petska Fur running routes in panhandle. Actively seeking Coyotes, Lynxcats, Fox, Deerhides and Antler. Coyote market exceptional. 308-750-0700, www. petskafur.net. FREON R12 WANTED: Certified buyer will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. 312-2919169; www.refrigerantfinders.com.
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OFFER DEADLINE: JANUARY 23
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NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, we cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop.
Service Directory Automotive
Dirt
Dirt Cheap
Central Garage, LLC (512) 894-4114 or (512) 858-4252
Rick-Rob Trucking 512- 858-7952
1 120 Hwy 290 W Mon-Fri, 8-5:30 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Danny Hubbard
STONE & LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES -We DeliverGRASS: St. Augustine, Buffalo, Bermuda, Tifway
12015 Hwy 290 W Cedar Valley, Austin
M-F 8-5 Sat. 9-3
Ray Brown 325.248.5027 Ray@DebRayHomes.com DebRayHomes.com
Honey-Do List Drywall Repair Clean Dryer Vent Leaking Toilet Repairs for Sale of Home H Insured
H H H H H
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Offering competitive pricing and superior service in the Manchaca, Buda, and Kyle area since 2010
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LANDSCAPING AND LAWN SERVICE
• Flower Beds • Fencing • Sprinkler Systems • Patios • Mowing, Edging and Cleanup • Tree Trimming and Removal • Rock Gardens • Garden Boxes • Build Sheds
Call Jesse Reyna at 512-788-2180 or email apa6207@sbcglobal.net
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robinnds@aol.com
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Hilco Real Estate, LLC in cooperation with Paul A. Lynn & Associates, LLC, 9000489.
Reliable Handy Man
Tractor Work Available
Specializing in Country Driveways
855.755.2300 HilcoRealEstate.com
Handyman
Handyman
Loam • Topsoil • Sand • Gravel • Roadbase • Asphalt Millings • Granite • Compost Mix
Complete Auto Repair
MINERAL RIGHTS
Both non-producing and producing
We buy oil, gas & mineral rights. Both non- producing and producing including non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI). Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation. 806-620-1422, LoboMineralsLLC@ gmail.com. Lobo Minerals, LLC, PO Box 1800, Lubbock, TX 79408-1800. McAllen, TX – Well-located 3.78± AC development site. Includes 14,500± SF retail bldg & vacant 2.73± AC parcel. 1324 W. US Expwy 83, McAllen, TX. Zoned C-3. Great signage. Strong traffic count (113,000 VPD). Previously valued above $5,500,000. 855-755-2300, HilcoRealEstate.com.
OIL, GAS, &
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Page 6
News-Dispatch
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Tiger Boys Hoops
Aquifer Impact: Entities turn to new technology Continued from pg. 1
change will have an increasing effect on drought and flooding in Central Texas. In Hays County, scientists at the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (BSEACD) are looking at ASR as a potential means to alleviate pressure on the aquifer during times of drought. The Ruby Ranch subdivision near Buda is the first testing site for ASR in Hays County. In this location, water is pumped from the Edwards Aquifer and transferred to the Trinity Aquifer. In 2018, city of Buda officials pushed forward with plans to build a pilot well for an ASR system. Water experts hope the project will curb the effects of moderate drought in the future.
“What this climate report doesn’t give us, and what we would love, is a way to quantify what we can expect in the future,” said Brian Smith, BSEACD principal hydrologist. “What we’ve been hearing for some time is the idea that the droughts and floods will be worse than what we’ve seen.” While some experts point to a lack of quantitative data in climate reports, research indicates that aquifers across the country are in trouble, including the Edward’s Aquifer, which supplies water to many Central Texans. According to the NCA, long-term droughts have led to a significant depletion of aquifers in many regions of the country. Aquifer decline accelerated from 2001 to 2008 due
to “persistent droughts in many regions,” as well as the lack of adequate surface water to meet demand. “This decline in groundwater compromises the ability to meet water needs during future droughts and impacts the functioning of groundwater dependent ecosystems,” according to the report. Although experts say ASR is not the only longterm solution to solve water woes, the consensus is that it will help. Kevin Kluge, Texas water development board director of conservation and innovative water technologies, said the geology and quality of groundwater must meet certain standards for the technology to be effective. An imbalance in the
chemistry of soil and water can cause the creation of compounds that may be detrimental to the health of the water. “The Edwards Aquifer has more dynamic rises and falls depending on the conditions of the climate, which makes it an aquifer where this technology can work, as we’ve seen in Kerrville and San Antonio,” Kluge said. “It’s an important tool in the box and a way to store water for when it's needed, especially during multiyear droughts.” Kluge said Texas’ 2017 state water plan mentions around 20 recommended ASR projects. In San Antonio, the Twin Oaks ASR system, which has been in operation since 2003, pulls groundwater from the Edwards Aquifer and
then transfers it to Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. San Antonio’s efforts have been deemed a success by water experts, paving the groundwork for other municipalities to follow suit. Kerrville’s system is also deemed a success, as it was the first operational ASR project in 1992. “Despite climate change, we need to focus on what we can do during times of drought,” Smith said. “We have a set of conditions set for pumping during the equivalent of the drought of record, so the board can vote to limit groundwater pumping when need be. We are not climate change experts, but there are efforts that the groundwater district can deploy in addition to these new advancements in conservation efforts.”
Black Castle: Wimberley to pay to get out of contract Continued from pg. 1
provider Aqua Texas, which he estimated would cost the city $52,000 a year to maintain. Barchfeld said $200,000 is “a lot of money” and that the city has to be “good stewards of the public’s money.” “This brings savings to the city of $160,000 for what Aqua Texas would cost,” Barchfeld said. Barchfeld said Wimberley’s city attorney did a good job in negotiations with Black Castle. The $200,000 termination is a mutual release which protects the city from subcontractors and any amounts owed to Black Castle. However, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has not approved the city’s change
of scope for the wastewater plant, which includes a crucial $5.5 million to fund the facility. Officials at the TWDB could not comment on when the board would vote to approve or disapprove the change. “I agree this is better than some anticipated, but it’s still a half a million dollars,” said Council member Allison Davis. “And there is no approved plan to go forward at the moment. I think this decision is premature. I’ve heard no word from the Texas Water Development Board that the path we are going to take is okay. So what happens if it doesn’t?” Although city officials have not mentioned in writing which entity will
be responsible for the wastewater treatment plant, Aqua Texas has been mentioned on the record at numerous council meetings as the only third-party option in discussion with the city. In conjunction with the Black Castle termination, the Wimberley City Council voted to send a letter to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) updating the state agency on its intent not to renew its wastewater discharge permit. But the move did not come without question, as members of the community did not understand why the city intended to send the letter when the permit doesn’t expire until July 2019.
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Wimberley resident and attorney Jimmy Alan Hall advised the council to wait until the permit expires to give notice to TCEQ since the city has not outlined its plan for the future of the wastewater system. Wimberley property owner Andrew Weber said there is no deadline to get the letter sent. “The letter as proposed states as if it's already a done deal that the city is contracting with Aqua Texas,” Weber said. “With all due respect, that's the topic of a [Jan. 8] public hearing and you don’t have any consent from the water development board to change the agenda or to change the scope or do anything else. It’s extremely premature at best.”
Weber said that, considering a public hearing was scheduled to be held just five days after the council meeting, calling for the Black Castle vote and sending the letter to TCEQ is premature. Council member Craig Fore said he understands that the permit does not expire until July, but wants the city to be proactive in letting TCEQ know its intent going forward with the permit. Davis fought to postpone the vote until an agreement is made in writing with Aqua Texas in an attempt to alleviate residents’ worries. Other council members opposed the idea. Fore argued that the letter is simply “a letter of intent, and is not asking to cancel (the permit).”
Continued from pg. 1 ing the Tigers 23-14 in the final eight minutes of play. Critical stops by Dripping Springs’ defense and clutch scoring from Arnold and junior guard Xavier Phillips sealed the victory for the Tigers. The win also puts Dripping Springs at 2-0 in district play. Arnold led the Tigers in points with 18 for the game, while also posting six rebounds, four steals and three assists. “Love the kid, he’s (Arnold) a phenomenal player,” Swannack said. “One of the things that I think people don’t realize is how competitive he is. He wants to win big games and he wants to do it all the time. That’s what I love about him.” In addition to Arnold’s big game, Phillips dropped 13 points, four rebounds, two assists and one steal, with six of his points coming in crunch time in the fourth quarter. Another key contributor was senior center Nick Statz, who had seven points, six rebounds, two assists and one steal, despite being in foul trouble for most of the game. Senior forwards Kyle Rioux and Alema Louis gave the Tigers a boost off the bench, with Louis scoring nine points and Rioux collecting three points, eight rebounds, three steals and two assists. “We really try to talk about never getting too high after a win and never too low after a loss, and this is a big win for us,” said Swannack. Dripping Springs travels to play at Reagan Jan. 11, followed by a road game at Travis Jan. 15. The Tigers host Crockett Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. 1-9