News Dispatch April 4, 2019 by Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch

Wimberley STR compliance costs city

Tiger is state powerlifting champion

Lady Tiger soccer earns playoff win

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News-Dispatch Volume XXXIX No. 26

Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982

A $200 withdrawal by Wimberley Mayor Susan Jaggers from the city’s bank account in November 2018 eventually prompted a policy change in how the city’s money is handled, according to a News-Dispatch investigation. Part of that information came from docu-

The issue came up when city staff in December 2018 asked Mayor Susan Jaggers about a $200 transaction for proceeds on a check drawn from the city’s account at Ozona Bank that wasn’t accounted for.

ments, as well as copies of emails between city staff and city council members, that were requested by the Dispatch via a Freedom of Infor-

mation Act (FOIA). Those documents were released by the Texas Attorney General’s Office weeks after Wimberley officials fought their release.

According to the documents, Jaggers withdrew $200 from the city’s bank account, which she said was an error on the part of Ozona Bank during a

transaction. The issue came up when city staff in December 2018 asked Jaggers about a $200 withdrawal from the city’s account at Ozona Bank that wasn’t accounted for, according to an email chain with Shawn Cox, Wimberley city administrator, the city attorney and Wim-

SPENDING POLICY, 6

County polling project in the works BY EXSAR ARGUELLO County officials are looking to kickstart community dialogue on the implementation of the Countywide Polling Place Program (CWPP) on Election Day, seeking feedback from targeted areas. At a March 27 open house, elections officials presented the prospect of CWPP, an effort that would allow citizens to cast their ballot at any polling location, regardless of precinct, on Election Day. Currently, voters must cast a ballot at their designated precinct location on Election Day. Texas State University students, elections officials and elected representatives weighed in during the meeting on which precincts should host the voting centers. Pending approval from the state, Hays County could join the list of dozens of Texas counties that have implemented countywide voting. County officials are

VOTING PROGRAM, 6

75¢ Thursday, April 4, 2019

Wimberley withdrawal mix-up by mayor leads to policy changes BY EXSAR ARGUELLO

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Property taxes? Water project payment needed BY EXSAR ARGUELLO Despite receiving approval from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) on the change of scope for its wastewater project last week, more challenges might be on the horizon for Wimberley city officials. That could include instituting a property tax, proposed by the TWDB as a condition of approval, in order to help pay down a $5.5 million loan from the agency that could cover the cost of the project changes. In addition to the proposed ad valorem tax to pay for the $5.5 million loan, the city must submit an “issuance of an updated favorable environmental determination.” This would include additional environmental assessments on the proposed boring under Cypress Creek to transport raw effluent and protections for endangered species in the area. “Because of previous delays, and the potential of additional delays that could affect the city’s ability to generate sufficient revenues to repay the debt, I’m recommending additional security for the debt,” TWDB Executive Administrator Jeff Walker said.

TWDB OFFICIALS ADD ADDITIONAL SCRUTINY

districts. In 2018, Taylor was hired by Hays CISD as the district’s first Director of Safety and Security. “These roles fit his life mission perfectly and there was no one better than Phillip to fill them,” Mitchell said. Hays CISD officials also mourned Taylor’s death, both personally and professionally, said Hays CISD Superintendent Eric Wright. Wright said Taylor’s experience and talent made him the perfect choice for the Safety and Security position, as well as his “deep ties” to the district and community.

The city lost nearly $2 million in grant funding when officials decided to change the scope of its wastewater project. This change, in conjunction with the termination fees of the Black Castle contract for the city-owned plant, has continued to put a financial strain on the city. According to the agenda packet, the city’s existing utility system and parks department generated a net loss of $43,635 in 2018. The overage was primarily due to increased expenses from the city’s proposed wastewater project. However, the city does have sufficient funds to complete the proposed change of scope, according to the TWDB recommendation. TWDB officials, however, cited concerns about a lack of a reusable water irrigation system to Blue Hole Regional Park, which was part of the city-owned plant project. Agency officials said the proposed environmental assessment will be heavily scrutinized. This includes complying with the findings of other state agencies on the potential risks of the boring under Cypress Creek. In February, a 14-page

MAYOR MOURNED, 2

WASTEWATER COSTS, 6

PHOTO BY ALBERT SANCHEZ

Tiger Track & Field competes with the best at Texas Relays

Dripping Springs High senior Ty Kaatz (4612) speeds away from senior teammate Zyle Nance (left) during the transition of the second to third leg of the distance medley relay March 29 at the 2019 Texas Relays in Austin. A handful of Tiger and Texan runners hit the track at Mike A. Myers Stadium for the annual Texas Relays, where they took on some of the best runners in the state and nation. A full list of results from Texas Relays can be found online at haysfreepress.com.

Neighbors mourn death of Mt. City mayor BY MOSES LEOS III

For as long as she’s lived in Mountain City, Hays County Pct. 2 Justice of the Peace Beth Smith always felt that neighbor Phillip Taylor was practically part of the family. Taylor, who lived a few streets down, was a regular figure at the Smith household, always playing in their pool with their children, or going though activities such as Cub and Boy Scouts. “I’ve been involved in his life since he was a small child,” Beth Smith said. Even after they all graduated from Hays High, Taylor joined

Smith’s children in staying involved in their local community, eager to serve their fellow residents. TAYLOR That family-first mentality is the way many in the small 230-plus home neighborhood are remembering Taylor, days after he passed away in a single-vehicle wreck on FM 2770. For Smith, it exemplifies the close-knit subdivision they live in, where everyone looks out for one another. “Every time something

happens, it affects our whole community, it’s a family,” Smith said. For many, Taylor was not only a dedicated public servant, but also a devoted father to his son. Smith said Taylor attended various events his son took part in. Kyle Mayor Travis Mitchell said in a statement that Taylor was a friend to everyone and was an “outstanding public servant.” Taylor, a 1996 Hays High graduate, spent close to 20 years with the Hays County Sheriff’s Office in various roles, including overseeing the School Resource Officer (SRO) program at three Hays County school

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News-Dispatch

News -Dispatch

Short term rental compliance costs city

PHONE: 512-268-7862

BY EXSAR ARGUELLO

FAX: 512-268-0262

More than $4,800 has been spent by Wimberley’s short term rentals (STRs) committee toward drafting a new ordinance further regulating those businesses. The committee could spend another $1,000 in the next 60 days to finish the ordinance, per a March 21 city council expenditure allowing further work to be done. According to city documents, Wimberley has so far spent approximately $3,100 in legal fees, $300 reviewing the city’s contract with Host Compliance and $2,800 toward development of the new STR Conditional Use Permit (CUP). City Administrator Shawn Cox said the city could have to spend “just as much” to rewrite its rules, based on what happens with six bills circulating in the 86th Texas Legislative session dealing with STR regulation. All told, Wimberley could spend around $6,000 to craft an ordinance that doesn’t include any measures that might be required by the state. According to Cox’s discussions with the city attorney, there are around three bills

PUBLISHER Cyndy Slovak-Barton csb@haysfreepress.com

EDITOR Moses Leos III moses@haysfreepress.com

REPORTERS Exsar Arguello Katie Burrell news@haysfreepress.com

PRODUCTION David White ADVERTISING/MARKETING Tracy Mack ads@bartonpublicationsinc.com

Jim Darby ads@haysfreepress.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

“We’re adding more hoops to jump through and we don’t even know if this is going to cost the economy. A lot of economic activity won’t happen because so much of our tourism relies on our lodging.” –Ned Murphy, Wimberley resident

that might make it out of the current session. But residents argued against the committee’s push to move the ordinance forward before the end of the legislative session. At a recent joint workshop with P&Z and the STR Committee, local resident Ned Murphy worried about the proposed changes and how it could impact the local lodging industry. Although not completed, the proposed ordinance would further bring noncompliant STRs into compliance.

PRIVACY CONCERNS WITH RECENT SOFTWARE PURCHASE

In conjunction with the added measures, the Wimberley city council recently approved the purchase of a $19,000 program and software that will help bring STRs into compliance, a

Wayland Clark PROOFREADER Jane Kirkham CIRCULATION MANAGER/ LEGAL NOTICES Verna Wommack paper@ haysnewsdispatch.com

News-Dispatch (USPS 011 - 401) is published weekly except for the weeks following July 4 and Christmas by Barton Publications, Inc., 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640. SUBSCRIPTION PRICE $42 local, $59 county, $62 out of state. PHOTO BY JEFF WILLIAMS

Periodicals Postage paid at Driftwood, TX. Email paper@haysnewsdispatch. com for subscriptions and address changes. POSTMASTER: send address changes to NewsDispatch, PO Box 339, Buda, TX 78610 LETTERS GUIDELINES We welcome locally written letters to the editor on timely topics of community interest. We ask that you keep them to about 350 words in length and that you not indulge in personal attacks on private individuals. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity. All letters should be signed by the author and include a daytime phone number where the author can be contacted for verification. Letter writers are limited to one letter per month. Letters can be emailed to csb@ haysfreepress.com.

Mt. City officials are flying their flag at half mast in front of their city hall building. They also put a black band around the subdivisision marquee as neighbors mourn the death of their mayor Phillip Taylor.

Mayor Mourned Continued from pg. 1

“We also couldn’t have asked for a more friendly, fun and compassionate colleague,” Wright said. “Phillip was not just a coworker, he was a member of our school district and community family who will be missed.” Taylor’s reach extended to the very city and community he lived in. Taylor, who had served as alderman and mayor pro tem of the Mountain City city council, was named as the city’s mayor in 2016. Smith said Taylor was a regular figure during “Shattered Dreams” retreats and spoke to students on the dangers of drinking and driving. Ralph McClendon, current Mountain City Mayor Pro Tem, said in a statement on the city’s Facebook page that Taylor served the city with passion because “he loved living here.”

Mountain City officials and Hays County leaders successfully advocated for Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to allow flags to be lowered in the area to half-staff to honor Taylor. “He will be missed tremendously,” McClendon said. “Please join us in prayers for his family during this time of loss.” Friends and coworkers took to the Hays Free Press Facebook page to express their condolences and support for Taylor and his family. Crystal Kilpatrick wrote that Taylor was a “good guy and dad” and that he was gone too soon. Sheri McKee wrote that Taylor and his parents are “true pillars of the HCISD community.” “There’s a lot of people who are offering their support,” Smith said. “He was well loved and he has touched a lot of lives.”

move that has mobilized some residents to protest the purchase, citing privacy concerns. Part of the ordinance

between March 25 and March 31, 2019. Agency Activity Date HCSO Assault 03/25/2019 HCSO Burglary - Building 03/25/2019 HCSO Burglary - Habitation 03/25/2019 HCSO Illegal Dumping 03/25/2019 HCSO Disorderly Conduct 03/25/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/25/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/25/2019 HCSO Harassment 03/25/2019 HCSO Public Lewdness 03/25/2019 HCSO Missing Person 03/25/2019 HCSO Suspicious Person 03/25/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/25/2019 HCSO Identity Theft 03/25/2019 BPD Theft 03/25/2019 HCSO Theft 03/25/2019 HCSO Recovered Stolen Vehicle 03/25/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/25/2019 BPD Trespassing/Unwanted 03/25/2019 HCSO Trespassing/Unwanted 03/25/2019 HCSO Trespassing/Unwanted 03/25/2019 HCSO Trespassing/Unwanted 03/25/2019 HCSO Alarm - Panic 03/27/2019 HCSO Sexual Assault - Child 03/26/2019 HCSO Assault - Aggravated 03/26/2019 HCSO Burglary - Habitation 03/26/2019 HCSO Burglary - Habitation 03/26/2019 HCSO Burglary - Habitation 03/26/2019 HCSO Burglary - Habitation 03/26/2019 BPD Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/26/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/26/2019 BPD Harassment 03/26/2019 BPD Harassment 03/26/2019 BPD Harassment 03/26/2019 HCSO Harassment 03/26/2019 HCSO Public Lewdness 03/26/2019 HCSO Missing Person 03/26/2019 HCSO Suicidal Person 03/27/2019 HCSO Theft 03/26/2019 HCSO Theft 03/26/2019 BPD Accident - Major/Injury 03/26/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/26/2019 BPD Deadly Conduct 03/27/2019 HCSO Assault 03/27/2019 HCSO Burglary - Vehicle 03/27/2019 HCSO Burglary - Vehicle 03/27/2019 BPD Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/27/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/27/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/27/2019 HCSO Harassment 03/27/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/27/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/27/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/27/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/27/2019 HCSO Identity Theft 03/27/2019 BPD Vehicle Theft 03/27/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/27/2019 HCSO Burglary - Habitation 03/28/2019 BPD Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/28/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/28/2019 HCSO Public Intoxication 03/28/2019 HCSO Harassment 03/28/2019 HCSO Suicidal Person 03/28/2019 BPD Wanted Person 03/28/2019 BPD Wanted Person 03/28/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/28/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/28/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/28/2019 HCSO Identity Theft 03/28/2019 HCSO Identity Theft 03/28/2019 HCSO Identity Theft 03/28/2019 HCSO Theft 03/28/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/28/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/28/2019 HCSO Alarm - Panic 03/29/2019 HCSO Assault - Aggravated 03/29/2019 HCSO Burglary - Building 03/29/2019 HCSO Burglary - Building 03/29/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/29/2019 BPD Harassment 03/29/2019 HCSO Wanted Person 03/29/2019 BPD Theft 03/29/2019 BPD Theft 03/29/2019 BPD Theft 03/29/2019 HCSO Theft 03/29/2019 HCSO Theft 03/29/2019 HCSO Vehicle Theft 03/29/2019 BPD Accident - Major/Injury 03/30/2019 HCSO Burglary - Habitation 03/30/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/31/2019 HCSO Harassment 03/30/2019 HCSO Missing Person 03/30/2019 HCSO Suicidal Person 03/30/2019 HCSO Suicidal Person 03/30/2019 BPD Theft 03/30/2019 BPD Theft 03/31/2019 HCSO Theft 03/30/2019 HCSO Theft 03/30/2019 BPD Vehicle Theft 03/30/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/31/2019 BPD Burglary - Building 03/31/2019 HCSO Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/31/2019 HCSO Missing Person 03/31/2019 HCSO Suicidal Person 03/31/2019 BPD Identity Theft 03/31/2019 BPD Theft 03/31/2019 HCSO Theft 03/31/2019 HCSO Theft 03/31/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/31/2019 HCSO Accident - Major/Injury 03/31/2019

Call 512-268-7862 to join the church directory today.

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning Sunday Worship

5:45 PM

Wednesday Meal

6:30 PM

Wed TouchPoint

A Family of Faith...

SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries

www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org

(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church Mass Schedule

Rev. Charlie

Spanish Mass Sunday: 1:30 p.m.

corner of RR 12 & Post Oak in Dripping Springs

Garza, pastor Saturday: 5 p.m. Located at the Sunday: 8:15 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m.

512-858-5667

change would require STR owners in the city limits to reapply for their conditional use permit (CUP) every year.

The software will help the city ensure owners are operating within the conditions of their STR. City council members wanted the ordinance to be drafted for approval, citing the amount of time the committee has worked on drafting it. “(This has) been drug out too long,” said council member Mike McCullough. “We need to get the thing moving.”

Police Blotter The following are a list of calls made to law enforcement agencies in Hays County

Worship in a church of your choice 11:00 AM

Thursday, April 4, 2019

www.stmartindp.org

Time 14:17:57 8:48:03 16:17:35 15:47:14 9:26:08 18:19:05 21:47:45 8:56:40 21:50:49 18:19:30 12:17:56 10:01:08 14:20:55 18:38:48 10:33:53 14:52:42 12:37:49 12:30:25 8:37:36 9:17:32 22:04:53 3:02:28 21:42:26 10:06:41 9:56:57 14:06:10 14:34:15 18:23:03 22:57:25 12:32:04 11:03:14 15:41:11 19:15:30 14:07:56 18:24:30 21:04:17 2:48:17 13:13:48 18:24:58 14:51:13 15:05:05 1:59:58 15:19:54 14:00:17 17:27:53 17:19:45 19:30:02 20:54:39 10:40:33 6:56:22 8:10:20 9:39:08 13:35:39 16:36:43 13:12:06 23:44:50 17:42:41 20:24:31 21:14:29 16:35:10 16:28:30 10:04:32 9:48:28 10:01:23 7:12:49 8:11:31 15:50:17 13:46:51 14:57:50 17:08:19 20:27:27 18:55:37 21:39:56 21:37:25 14:55:49 18:07:30 19:15:16 22:36:38 19:58:33 10:54:53 11:38:22 13:05:23 17:24:01 16:06:09 19:31:15 19:18:32 0:31:04 7:01:44 1:13:20 21:16:54 10:19:32 16:49:58 18:59:43 14:14:10 4:23:30 14:59:32 20:44:18 10:22:03 1:35:36 18:10:47 10:44:02 18:50:38 14:17:25 19:39:07 19:14:27 18:21:42 20:02:38 21:44:19 23:32:03

Location Stone View Trl, Austin Falconwood Dr, San Marcos Falconwood Dr, San Marcos RR 967, Buda Dacy Ln, Buda, McCormick Middle School Destiny Dr, Kyle Golden Cv, Kyle Coronado Ln, Kyle E US 290, Holiday Inn Of Dripping Springs Shady Bluff Dr, Wimberley Satterwhite Rd, Buda Falconwood Dr, San Marcos Whitney Run, Buda IH 35 FR, Buda, A Nails Trinity Hills Dr, Austin Niederwald Strasse, Kyle Centerpoint Rd/Hunter Rd, San Marcos IH 35 FR HEB Of Buda Hilliard Rd, San Marcos Oakview Dr, Dripping Springs Stone View Trl, Austin Country Ln, Woodcreek Red Morganite Trl, Buda Townhouse Cir, Wimberley Morningwood Dr, San Marcos Robert S Light Blvd, Buda Ranch Apts Sunrise Cir, Kyle Reunion Blvd, Austin Cabelas Dr, Buda, Carrington Oaks Regina Dr, Buda Cimarron Park Loop, Buda Hy Rd, Buda Hy Rd, Buda Airport Highway 21, San Marcos Char Crest Ct/Morningwood Dr, San Marcos N Canyonwood Dr, Dripping Springs Cool Spring Way, Austin Graef Rd, Kyle Mockingbird Dr, Manchaca 3770 blk RR 967, Buda 3770 blk RR 967, Buda Cabelas Dr, Buda Microtel Suites W US 290, Dripping Springs High School Joe Robinson Dr, Kyle Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley EXIT 223 NB, Buda Billy Bluff Trl, San Marcos FM 2001, Buda Live Oak Dr, Manchaca RR 1826, Salt Lick Bbq of Driftwood Texan Blvd, Wimberley, Danforth Jr High Dark Horse Ln, Buda Oak St, Maxwell Barton Meadow Dr, Dripping Springs Old San Antonio Rd, Buda Chilis Jacobs Well Rd/Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley Green Pastures Dr, Kyle Bonita Vista Dr, Buda Big Meadow Rd, Austin E US 290, HEB Of Dripping Springs Lakewood Cir, Wimberley Hays St, Dripping Springs Fresno Spgs, Buda Middle Crk, Buda Treetop Way, Buda Star Mdw, Kyle Jack C Hays Trl, Kyle Adult Probation Black Forest Rd, Buda High Mesa Dr, Wimberley RR 12, Dripping Springs Camino Real, Neiderwald Valero Oak Park Way/W Mccarty Ln, San Marcos Hays Youth Dr/Jack C Hays Trl, Buda Crest Circle Dr, San Marcos Overpass Rd, Buda Mountain High Dr, San Marcos Annes Trl, San Marcos Eagle Brook Ln, Buda Faircrest Dr, Buda Clovis Barker Rd, San Marcos, Alter Cupplings Old San Antonio Rd, Walmart Of Buda IH 35 FR Buda Mcdonalds Old San Antonio Rd, Buda Walmart Vista West Ranch Rd, Dripping Springs Cedar Holw, Wimberley Kings Ridge Dr, Buda EXIT 219 NB, Buda Goodnight Trl, Dripping Springs Mathias Ln, Kyle Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley Peak Ln, Kyle Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley Mt Sharp Rd, Wimberley Old San Antonio Rd, Buda Walmart Glenview Ln/Old Goforth Rd, Buda FM 2001, Buda W US 290 Dripping Springs CVS Pharmacy Industrial Way Dr, Buda Yarrington Rd/Airport Highway 21, San Marcos S Loop 4, Buda Quarter Ave, Buda Overpass Rd, Buda Tuscany, Park Apartments Salinas Rd, San Marcos Middle Crk, Buda IH 35 FR Buda Cabelas Green Acres Dr Wimberley Graef Rd, Kyle Lime Kiln Rd, San Marcos Drifting Wind Run/E Us 290, Dripping Springs

Thursday, April 4, 2019

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Page 3

Sports

Lady Tiger soccer blanks Wagner in 4-0 playoff win BY SHANE SCHOLWINSKI

game and the first playoff game, and all you can do CONVERSE – Dominant is kind of stress about it. play carried the Dripping So finally to get the first Springs girls soccer team one under your belt lets to a lopsided 4-0 bi-disyou relax a little bit more.” trict round win March Lady Tigers senior Zoe 28 over the Wagner Lady Flores had a game to reThunderbirds at the Frank member as she scored two Arnold Athletic Complex. goals in the first half of “Always the first one play, setting the pace for getting it under your belt Dripping Springs’ strong is big,” said Lady Tigers offensive performance. head coach Bailee Perrine. Flores finished a one-on“There is so much time in one shot against Wagner’s between the last district goalkeeper at the 33-min-

Coming Up

Dripping Spring takes on San Antonio Harlan (19-1-2) Tuesday in the area round of the playoffs. Winner of that contest advances to play Boerne Champion or Medina Valley in the third round of the playoffs.

ute mark to get things going, and later in the half scored on a corner set piece where she bent

the ball around the keeper and into the back corner of the net. “Zoe is a force to be reckoned with,” Perrine said. “She’s always on top of it. She gets a little hot sometimes, but I think it’s part of the passion of the game. The team kind of feeds off of her energy and gets after it. She’s one of those people that makes sure the ball goes in the goal.” Dripping Springs kept

its attack going as the Lady Tigers scored two more goals in the final 40 minutes of play. One goal was scored by junior Caroline Luttrull and the other by sophomore Sofia Picucci. Luttrull capitalized early in the half when a deflected ball went in front of her and she seized the moment and sliced it past the goalie. Picucci’s goal happened with under a minute remaining where she put the nail in Wag-

ner’s coffin with a striking goal on another one-onone opportunity. For the match, the Lady Tigers out shot the Lady Thunderbirds 25-7, with 14-4 shots on goal. The win marked the 16th time this season that Dripping Springs scored four or more goals in a contest. Meanwhile, the Lady Tigers notched the program’s 15th shutout

LADY TIGERS SOCCER, 4

Dripping Springs softball handles Jaguars in 6-1 win BY SHANE SCHOLWINSKI

PHOTO BY WAYLAND D. CLARK, WFOTOS.COM

Dripping Springs’ Alexis Gonzalez (10) steals the ball from a Reagan player in the final game of the regular season at Tiger Stadium on Tuesday, March 12. Last week, Dripping Springs advanced to the area round of the playoffs.

Tiger soccer tops Harlandale Indians in bi-district playoff BY REED GRAFF

Coming Up

coming off of crosses into the 18-yard box that were The Dripping Springs knocked in by headers. Dripping Springs Tiger boys soccer team Tigers Juan Galindo and advanced to play Eagle advanced in the playoffs in Hernan Casanova scored a Pass Winn High in the area round Tuesday. dominant fashion followgoal each during the span. Winner of that contest ing a 6-0 bi-district round Head coach Josh Hill emtakes on the winner of win over the San Antonio phasized this was part of Kerrville Tivy or San Harlandale Indians Friday. the Tigers’ attack and was Antonio Harlan in the third Dripping Springs (15pleased with the team’s round of the playoffs. 3-7) held the upper hand performance there. early and began to put “That’s just what we do took a deflected ball and together offensive runs well,” Hill said. “We had a laced it into the net from against Harlandale; the lot of good chances.” 20 yards out for the Tigers’ first few attempts were The Tigers won the second goal. The Tigers got match 6-0 and claimed the unsuccessful. Following into an offensive rhythm a well-defended run, the bi-district championship. Tigers were awarded a cor- from there, aided by Tiger Hill felt his team did not Desi De La Cruz, who ner kick. Following some back down from the playtallied the team’s third goal off atmosphere and rose to trickery and deception with 15 minutes left before the occasion. by the Tigers, Dripping intermission. Springs’ Max Gonzales “You could tell the first Dripping Springs led was set up perfectly for the few minutes we were 3-0 at halftime and kept match’s first goal. nervous, but we settled up the pace in the second down,” Hill said. “I was The Tigers, who led half. 1-0, kept up the pressure pleased with how we Dripping Springs scored played. Good energy, good throughout the early minutes of the match. Ten three goals over the span effort, and got a great minutes later, Ken Gossett of 15 minutes of play, all result.”

Timely hitting and solid pitching were key components in the Dripping Springs Tiger softball team’s 6-1 nondistrict win over the San Antonio Johnson Jaguars Saturday. With the win, Dripping Springs improved to 25-2 and maintains its hold as the No. 3 team in Class 5A. “We knew coming in we had to execute the little things to find a way to win the ball game. Our girls were able to do that,” said Tiger head coach Wade Womack. After being down 1-0 in the bottom of the first, Tigers senior catcher Bailey Hudgeons turned the momentum of the game when she smashed a two-run home run over the right center field wall. The hit jarred the Jaguars, which made a pitching change immediately after the blast. “She just left a screwball over the plate and I just attacked it,” Hudgeons said. “It was 2-0 (in the count) and I knew she was a little bit faster than what we’ve been seeing in our district, so I knew I just had to jump on it, especially if it was inside.” Hudgeons went 2-for-2 in the game with two RBIs and a run scored. Hudgeons accounted for two of the six hits the Tigers got off of Johnson’s pitching staff, including a double in the fifth inning that put runners in scoring position. “Bailey’s been good for us all year long, she’s a great hitter and a clutch hitter,” Womack said. “The thing I love about Bailey is no matter what

PHOTO BY WAYLAND D. CLARK, WFOTOS.COM

Dripping Springs Tiger pitcher Logan Hulon unfurls a pitch during a game played at Tiger Stadium earlier this season. Hulon struck out 12 batters in a nondistrict tilt against San Antonio Johnson Saturday.

Coming Up

running by the Tigers. Dripping Springs extended its lead to 6-1 in the Dripping Springs continues district play this week fifth inning as pinch hitter Izzy Bermudez singled with road games against Crockett and Lanier. The to center field to bring Tigers return home April home another run. 9 against LBJ. Womack lauded the Tigers’ baserunning ability, happens at the plate, she which has been “solid all year long.” doesn’t take it with her, “You know we hit the she just comes back and ball in play, got a bunt is ready to go. But that down, we scored a run home-run was huge, we on an error and then needed that.” Dripping Springs had a ended up scoring two on a couple errors,” Wombig bottom of the fourth inning as the team scored ack said. “That was on the girls, they did a good three runs to stretch its lead to 5-1. All three runs job of reading what was came via Jaguar errors, TIGER SOFTBALL, 4 in addition to smart base

DSHS’s Rios is State Champ Powerlifter, boys team finishes third STAFF REPORT Dripping Springs High School junior Juan Rios finished as the state champion in the 165-pound weight class at the State Powerlifting Meet on March 23 in Abilene. Along with Rios, Ivan Venegas and Jose Rios also represented DSHS at the state meet. Venegas, a junior, finished in second place in the 132-pound weight class and Jose Rios, a sophomore, was 12th in the 114-pound class. The three lifters propelled DSHS to a third-place team finish at the event.

DSHS also had two female lifters qualify for the State Powerlifting Meet in Waco on March 16. Miracle Gray and Jenni Venegas tied for 6th in the 105-pound weight class. Gray squatted 265 pounds, benched 120 pounds, and deadlifted 260 pounds for a total of 645 pounds. Venegas squatted 275 pounds (school record), benched 120 pounds, and deadlifted 250 pounds for a 645 pound total. Both girls set personal records at the meet.

RESULTS

• Juan Rios, 1st in 165-pound class Squat: 610 pounds* Bench: 340 pounds* Deadlift: 585 pounds* Total: 1535 pounds* • Ivan Venegas, 2nd in 132-pound class Squat: 515 pounds* Bench: 295 pounds* Deadlift: 435 pounds Total: 1245 pounds*

PHOTO COURTESY OF DRIPPING SPRINGS ISD

The Tiger boys powerlifting team that finished third in its state meet, consists of (left to right) Jose Rios, Juan Rios and Ivan Venegas.

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• Jose Rios, 12th in 114-pound class Squat: 375 pounds* Bench: 175 pounds Deadlift: 365 pounds Total: 915 pounds* *Weight class school record

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News-Dispatch

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Education Nine students receive recognition in state Reflections contest

The work of nine Dripping Springs ISD students received recognition at the 2019 Texas PTA “Reflections” state contest, including two national qualifiers. A total of 19 Dripping Springs students qualified for the state competition. Student work is submitted in one of six categories and evaluated based on artistic merit, creativity, mastery of the medium, and interpretation of the theme. This year’s theme was “Heroes Around Me.” Receiving Awards of Excellence were Sycamore Springs Middle School student Ginny Falls for her literature entry titled “Hearts Connected” and Sycamore Springs Elementary fifth-grader Stephanie Gearing for her musical composition “Saving the Day.” Five students received state Awards of Merit: Elizabeth McDowell

Dripping Springs elementary teacher is finalist for H-E-B Excellence in Education state award STAFF REPORT Dripping Springs Elementary art teacher Molly McFee is one of five finalists statewide for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Leadership Elementary Teacher of the Year. The Leadership category indicates outstanding teachers with 10 to 20 years of experience. The honor was kept a surprise from the educators, who learned they were finalists when H-E-B representatives visited their classrooms and

schools with balloons, cookies and flowers. Finalists were presented with a $1,000 check, and their schools also received $1,000. McFee has been teaching art at Dripping Springs Elementary for six years, providing instruction to more than 800 students. Previously, she taught art in Klein ISD for four years. McFee earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio in Art. All finalists will be invited to Austin May 5 for

Tiger Softball: Winning! Continued from pg. 3

happening.” While the Tiger offense put runs on the scoreboard, Tiger senior pitcher Logan Hulon prevented the Jaguars from doing the same. Hulon earned the win while striking out 12 Johnson batters and only giving up one run on four hits and a walk.

Hulon also escaped several situations where the Jaguars had runners in scoring position. “She’s just one of those pitchers that comes around every so often that you get an opportunity to coach,” Womack said. “She went out there and she just did what she had to.”

an awards ceremony, after interviewing as part of the statewide selection for larger cash prizes. H-E-B launched the Excellence in Education Awards program in cooperation with the Texas Association of School Administrators in 2002 as a positive way to support public education in Texas. It has become the largest monetary program for educators in the state, spotlighting best practices and celebrating the passion and creativity of Texas educators.

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(SSMS) in dance choreography for “The Heroes Within Us,” Colton Inglish (DSE) in Literature with “What a Hero Is and Does,” Michael Gearing (SSMS) in Musical Composition with “Heroes Anthem,” Hudson Ela (SSE) in Photography for “Saviors,” and Kellen Embrey (WSE) in Visual Arts for “Ship Shape.” Two others earned honorable mention at the state level: Tatum Theis (RSE) in dance choreography for “Silence Choreography” and Lucas Trepanier (SSE) in Photography for “Hays Firefighting Heroes.”

DSHS one-act play advances to bi-district

On March 15, the Dripping Springs High School production of Federico Garcia Lorca’s “Blood Wedding” was rated as the First-Place Advancing Play (among eight competing schools) at the UIL District 25 5A Contest. Griffin McKitrick and Kenzie Olsen were honored as the Best Actor and Best Actress, and Julia Harris was selected as AllStar Technical Crew.

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Continued from pg. 3

You can’t force it because if you force it, you’re probably going to lose it.” Another factor in the Lady Tigers success in keeping possession is the calm mindset they have in tough situations. A practice the team has picked up this season is yoga, and Perrine can already see it paying off on the field. “I’m also real big into yoga and the girls have bought into that,” Perrine mentioned. “At halftime, they wanted to meditate, so we took a minute to meditate and think about what to do differently the second half. I really feel the girls executed on those things we talked about at halftime.”

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The Dripping Springs High School choir program was represented by three groups of students at the UIL Choir Concert and Sightreading Evaluation. At the event, each of the three choir groups (Chamber, Concert, and Treble) performed a concert repertoire and an unprepared piece (sightreading) in front of two different three-judge panels. Each judge gave the choirs a rating from 5 (Poor) to 1 (Superior). The goal in the event is to receive “Sweepstakes” or overall Superior ratings in both concert and sightreading categories. All three DSHS choirs received Sweepstakes, and each choir also received Superior ratings across the board achieving a total of 18 “1” ratings. The DSHS choir program is led by Courtney Neva.

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Lady Tiger Soccer: Also winning! this season. “Possession was our plan, like possess, possess and make sure to play to us,” said Perrine. “See the open pass and make sure to not force things, because this team is quick and aggressive.” Perrine liked what she saw in terms of holding possession throughout the match. One teaching point that Perrine implemented this season to help the team with time of possession was the “twotouch” rule. “I tell them a lot you kind of have to play on two touches,” said Perrine. “If you play with more than two touches the opportunity to pass is gone.

DSHS choir program recognized at UIL concert and sightreading evaluation

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An application has been filed with HAYS COUNTY to replat Lot 75, Resubdivision of The River Oaks Ranch Phase One consisting of 2.51 acres of property located at 204 W. Lakeshore Drive, Dripping Springs, TX 78620. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512)393-2150. A public meeting is scheduled for April 8, 2019 at 6:30 pm at 195 Roger Hanks Parkway, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 at 6:30pm. A presentation will be given on the proposed development.

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Dripping Springs ISD is requesting competitive sealed proposals for the Dripping Springs ISD SYCAMORE SPRINGS Parking Expansion Project, which includes new lighting. Proposals shall be addressed to Michelle Lyons, Purchasing Specialist - CTSBO, Dripping Springs Independent School District, 510 W. Mercer Street, P.O. Box 479, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620, and must be received by 2:00 P.M. (CST) on April 25, 2019. The CSP package may be obtained at the at the District’s website at www. dsisdtx.us and by request to Michelle Lyons at michelle. lyons@dsisdtx.us and by facsimile at 512.858.3099. Please note that the District will be closed on Friday, April 19, 2019.

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There will be a voluntary pre-proposal meeting on April 15, 2019, at 12:00 P.M. (CST) at the Sycamore Room Ð SSMS 14451 Sawyer Ranch Road, Austin, Texas 78737. Immediately following will be a site visit. Attendance is highly recommended. Dripping Springs Independent School District reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals, to waive any formalities and irregularities in the proposals received, and will accept the response(s) determined to be in the best interests of the District.

CSP 18-19-006 DRIPPING SPRINGS ISD DRIPPING SPRINGS MIDDLE SCHOOL AND DRIPPING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL TURF & TRACK REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Dripping Springs ISD is requesting competitive sealed proposals for the Dripping Springs ISD DRIPPING SPRINGS MIDDLE SCHOOL AND DRIPPING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL TURF & TRACK REPLACEMENT PROJECT. Proposals shall be addressed to Michelle Lyons, Purchasing Specialist - CTSBO, Dripping Springs Independent School District, 510 W. Mercer Street, P.O. Box 479, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620, and must be received by 3:00 P.M. (CST) on April 25, 2019. The CSP package may be obtained at the at the District’s website at www. dsisdtx.us and by request to Michelle Lyons at michelle. lyons@dsisdtx.us and by facsimile at 512.858.3099. Please note that the District will be closed on Friday, April 19, 2019.

There will be a voluntary pre-proposal meeting on April 15, 2019, at 2:00 P.M. (CST) at the Administration Building, Board Room, located at 510 W. Mercer Street, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620. Immediately following will be a site visit. Attendance is highly recommended. Dripping Springs Independent School District reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals, to waive any formalities and irregularities in the proposals received, and will accept the response(s) determined to be in the best interests of the District.

RFQ 18-19-011 COMMISSIONING SERVICES FOR DRIPPING SPRINGS ISD CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS Dripping Springs Independent School District requests qualifications from qualified professionals providing Commissioning Services for Dripping Springs ISD Construction Projects. Dripping Springs ISD’s Request for Qualifications, which includes instructions for submission and other important information, can be obtained at the Dripping Springs ISD Purchasing Department located at 510 West Mercer Street, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620 or by contacting Michelle Lyons, Purchasing Specialist, by email at michelle.lyons@ dsisdtx.us or by facsimile at 512.858.3099. Submissions will be accepted by Dripping Springs ISD until 3:00 P.M. (CST) on April 30, 2019. All submissions are to be submitted to Dripping Springs ISD at the address above to the attention of Michelle Lyons, Purchasing Specialist. No faxed or

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Page 6

News-Dispatch

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Voting Program: County eyes new Election Day voting program Continued from pg. 1

looking to appoint a polling place committee that will be tasked with identifying the best locations for these centers. During the November 2018 election, there were approximately 35 precincts on Election Day. “That will be the charge of the polling place committee,” said Hays County Elections Administrator Jennifer Anderson. “If it’s less, it will be minimal, and I don’t think you’ll see less on the east side of I-35.” Anderson said Hays County Commissioners will host a public forum

April 23 for citizen input on polling places the county should consider for countywide voting. Anderson said the county is planning to implement countywide voting by the November 2019 elections, which would serve as a “test run” in anticipation for the 2020 election cycle. Catherine Wicker, Precinct 334 chairperson, which includes a majority of Texas State University and surrounding student apartments, said she wants to see more engagement from the student population.

The record-breaking turnout at the university during the 2018 midterm elections resulted in a lack of voting machines for the student population. Five months later, the problem during the midterms still gives local officials heartburn. “We could send flyers, create them ourselves, and distribute them to the population once the Summer ends,” Wicker said. “Once we establish these voting locations, we’ll work with (the elections office) to make that work.” The nonstudent population at the meeting

said they would like to see more polling locations on the east sides of Kyle, Buda and San Marcos to aid those residents. San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson suggested more candidate outreach for those seeking office. Countywide vote centers would save candidates and election officials time from having to direct voters to the correct polling location on election day, which has proven to be challenging for those seeking office in the past. “The April 23 meeting is a requirement in our application packet,” Ander-

son said. “Audio from that meeting will be sent to the state with our packet for approval, so it’s important that people come out and let us know how we can make this system successful.” Meanwhile, Hays County Commissioners are looking to upgrade their arsenal of voting machines to a potential “hybrid system.” This would allow voters to receive some sort of receipt or physical conformation after voting. However, before the county can invest millions in new machines, state law requires voting machines

to be approved by the state. Pulling the trigger on new machines could be costly if not given state approval. Additionally, county officials said there is proposed legislation at the capitol that could dictate which machines would be allowed on Election Day. “That will be the duty of the county, but I can’t talk specifically about hybrid systems,” Anderson said, citing changes that could be made at the legislature. “But it seems the paper receipt is popular, and we could be leaning in that direction.”

Spending Policy: Withdrawal mix-up leads to changes Continued from pg. 1

berley Mayor Pro Tem Gary Barchfeld Jaggers initially said she was not familiar with such a transition. Once she heard it was a transaction from a bank counter, Jaggers said she recalled a withdrawal she made a month previous. On Nov. 19, 2018, Jaggers said she went to the Ozona Bank branch in Wimberley and tried to withdraw money from the ATM using her personal debit card from another bank. However, the ATM was not working at the time. According to documents, Jaggers does not have a personal bank account at Ozona. When she needs money, Jaggers said she withdraws funds using her debit bank card from ATMs, including the one at Ozona Bank. Jaggers said she has had a banking relationship in the past with Ozona during her tenure as the local VFW treasurer and knows many of the tellers. Jaggers said in the documents she had never been to the bank to conduct business for the city. In a December 2018 email to city council member Allison Davis, City Administrator Shawn Cox said Wimberley does not have debit cards on its accounts. Jaggers went inside

The changes added additional buffers to protect the city’s bank account. When the finance department receives an invoice, it would be cross-checked against approved purchase orders. and informed the Ozona Bank teller she wished to withdraw money using her debit card. After a review of her identity, a bank ticket was given to Jaggers. “After he (the teller) prepared it, he had me sign the ticket, gave me the $200 and I left,” Jaggers said in the email. “Clearly my intention and understanding about the transaction was that it was cash advance from my debit card since the ATM machine did not work.” In the email chain, Jaggers said she participated in a meeting with Barchfeld, Cox and Chris Smith, Ozona’s chief operations officer (COO). According to Jaggers, Smith reviewed the bank video which showed Jaggers’ unsuccessful attempt to withdraw money from the ATM with her debit card. Jaggers said the teller recalled preparing the bank ticket, which had an account number, amount, date and account name, which showed “Susan Jaggers,” but no signature. “In conclusion, Mr. Smith told me that it was

his professional opinion that this issue resulted in a miscommunication between me and the teller and that the bank made an error in preparing the withdrawal slip and showing the account name Susan Jaggers,” she said. As a result of the incident, Jaggers said she had the bank process a cash advance transaction in the amount of $200 from her personal debit card in late December. “Ozona Bank is then responsible to take corrective action between Ozona and the city,” Jaggers said. It is unknown at this time whether the situation has been resolved with the city and the bank. Cox, Jaggers nor Ozona Bank responded regarding the incident. On Jan. 3, Wimberley city leaders unanimously voted to amend its purchasing policy, which dictated how withdrawals can be made from the city account. The changes added additional buffers to protect the city’s bank account. When the finance department receives

an invoice, it would be cross-checked against approved purchase orders. “No invoice should be paid until duly authorized by the department head or supervisor and approved by the city administrator,” according to the updated ordinance. All checks, along with accounts payable documents, are reviewed by the city administrator and require two signatures. Cox said this would not allow for cash withdrawals from the bank and would require any signatory on the account from walking into the bank with a deposit slip and withdrawing money from the account without the two signatures on the check. “Effectively, what this says is that you can’t just go to the bank and ask for money,” Barchfeld said. “And this is a flaw in our purchasing, and I think this closes it up.” Cox said the city has asked Ozona Bank to follow the request, but acknowledged that a mistake could be missed. “People are people,” he said at the meeting. “People make mistakes that they shouldn’t.”

Meet the 2019 candidates Meet the candidates running for PEC Board of Director seats in districts 4 and 5. The forum will also include a Q&A session where you can learn more about the candidates.

When: April 18 at 5:30 p.m.

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Learn more at pec.coop/election.

Unique users Unique usersPage Unique Unique Average usersPage user Unique Average usersPage user Average user Average user Average user viewsusersPage views views views Page views a month a month a month a month per day a month per day per day per day per day

Wastewater Costs: Property taxes ahead? Continued from pg. 1

letter from Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) indicated the agency wanted additional security measures for the boring. This includes a recommendation that the entrance and exit points are 500 feet from the streambed. Andrew Weber, president of the Friends of Blue Hole, said he is hanging his hopes on a strict environmental assessment. Weber disputed the city’s claims that the 500-foot setbacks cannot be accomplished because of “existing improvements.” Worries are growing, however, on how the city plans to fund its project. Incorporating an ad valorem tax rate could be a hard sell for city officials, as Wimberley has never had a city property tax. Wimberley area residents currently pay property taxes to Wimberley ISD, Hays County and Wimberley Fire. Wimberley officials could issue general obligation bonds, which require a referendum. Wimberley

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Worries are growing, however, on how the city plans to fund its project. Incorporating an ad valorem tax rate could be a hard sell for city officials, as Wimberley has never had a city tax rate.

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could issue debt without an election, unless a petition is filed by at least five percent of voters who call for a referendum. Issuing debt, however, would require a property tax rate to pay them off. Wimberley resident Lewis Parks questioned how Mayor Susan Jaggers plans to get voter approval for any proposed bonds. “How can she (Jaggers) make this happen after she ran heavily on a no property tax platform?” Lewis asked.

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If approved, it will return to Walker and TWDB staff in conjunction with the environmental review before construction can begin. Another component of the environmental assessment will require a biologist to review the site for any potential dangers to the endangered Golden-Cheek Warbler. Peter Lake, TWDB chairman, said their staff has bent over backward working on the city’s change of scope. “This problem needs to be solved but the paNEXT STEPS tience of this board is not infinite,” Lake said. “So I Walker said the city council would have to vote encourage current leaderon the bonds, which would ship, past leadership and the entire community of then need approval from Wimberley to make sure the Attorney General’s office. this problem gets solved.”

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e-blast eEdition subscribers

percentage

TOTAL TOTAL TOTALTOTAL TOTAL Mobile App eEdition percentage13,10517,652 subscribers 13,105 13,105 13,10517,652 13,105 17,652 17,652 17,652 30,757 30,757 30,757 30,75730,757 Print Print Print Web Print Web Print Web Web Web Readership Readership Readership Readership ReadershipReadership ReadershipReadership Readership Readership

63%

5698 newspapers

Population

69.5%

157

4,712

63%

County

1,413 1240

1,279 157

1240

25,500

= 200 papers

5698 readers newspapers

Average over past year, as of March 8, 2019

= 200 habitants

Print Readership

Web Readership

100 = Readers 13,105

17,652

Population

TOTAL

4,712

County

25,500

30,757

= 200 papers

We’ve been together for a few weeks now, = 200 habitants sharing news, sports and neighborhood events.

TOTAL READERSHIP 62,979 going to 30,757 miss us. e

If you miss what we had, please subscribe. Web Facebook Web Readership It only costs penniesTOTAL aFollowers week. Readership 59,775 13,105 17,652 1,925 1,279 Print Print Readership Readership

ess

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