LH INDEPENDENT 8-12-21 by The Liberty Hill Independent

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2021

Volume 34, Issue 38

STAAR scores drop due to pandemic

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer A dip in scores across the state for the 2021 State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) came directly as a result of students and teachers weathering the coronavirus pandemic through situations like virtual learning, quarantine and mask wearing. In the Liberty Hill Independent School District, scores also fell but remained higher than the state’s overall averages in most categories. “As you look at the scores overall, Liberty Hill did outperform the state in most areas by double digits,” said Todd Washburn, assistant superintendent of schools. “However, we did see a dip in our scores. Those are reﬂective of what you saw across the state.” STAAR exams are given

See STAAR, Page 9

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LHISD welcomes 164 new staff

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer The cafeteria at Liberty Hill High School was packed Monday morning as 164 newly-hired educators met for the ﬁrst time in preparation for the 2021-2022 school year. “These are all brand-new staff to Liberty Hill ISD,” said Superintendent Steve Snell. “It’s important to bring them in and explain the culture. The processes. We’re making sure they have the resources they need for a successful school year.” The new educators were welcomed by Snell, who shared his expectations with the group about the upcoming school year. “We want our students to be good at a lot of things,” he said. “We want our kids to know that they’re a part of something that is bigger than themselves. We will emphasize three things all

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

Superintendent Steve Snell (standing) addressed teachers new to the school district this week. He See NEW, Page 4 encouraged staff to be mindful

Attendance zones set for Liberty Hill schools

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer When school starts on Aug. 19, many students in the Liberty Hill Independent School District will be attending a new-to-them campus due to attendance zones changing across the district and two new schools opening. The new schools, Louine Noble Elementary School (formerly Liberty Hill Intermediate School) and Santa Rita Middle School, will provide relief for growing pains the district is seeing across the board. This change also complements the district’s decision to shift from using the intermediate school model to the middle school model. Todd Washburn, assistant superintendent of schools for LHISD, said this change will minimize the amount of times families will have to be shifted around. Previously, LHISD had one intermediate campus where all ﬁfth and sixth grad-

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ers attended school, and one junior high campus for seventh and eighth graders. This year, ﬁfth graders will go to their designated elementary school campus, and sixth, seventh and eighth graders will attend either Liberty Hill Middle School—the former junior high—or Santa Rita Middle School—a new campus opening next week. The divider for attendance at the middle schools is US Highway 183. Students living west of Hwy 183 will attend LHMS, with a population of about 836 students; and students living east of Hwy 183 will attend SRMS, with a population of about 725 students. “First and foremost, we focus our attention on what’s best for students,” Washburn said. “Anytime we have to shift attendance boundaries it can be challenging for families to make that change, but

See ZONES, Page 5

District considers COVID guidelines

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer One week away from the ﬁrst class day, Superintendent Steve Snell is encouraging staff to get vaccinated for COVID-19 and wear masks. COVID protocols have become the top subject of discussion this week as new teachers and staff participate in orientation and school board members learn what to expect as school begins Aug. 19. Snell approaches the escalating pandemic with caution and urged staff to do all they can to keep themselves and students safe. “Now we live in the (COVID-19) era,” said Snell to incoming staff during new

See COVID, Page 8

Community rallies to support local woman recovering from burns

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer On June 26, Dani Luckey’s life was forever changed in just a split second. As she loaded her trunk after an afternoon of swimming with her three kids, a can of dry shampoo fell out of a bag from the back of her car, hit the ground, started spraying everywhere and in an instant, burst into a flame that started at her feet and then went up her legs. “I kicked my shoes off and started running,” she said. “I screamed my son’s name, and he took off running, but I was so scared because we were in a parking lot and he’s only three. By the time I got to the grass to stop, drop and roll, the flames were pretty much out, but then it was extremely difficult to keep it together.” Luckey and her kids, Joslyn, 12; Norah, 5; and Cohen, 3, were at Luckey’s cousin’s apartment complex in South Austin. Her cousin had already left after their afternoon of swimming, so Luckey was forced to call 9-1-1 on her own, explain what happened, and wait with her kids until help arrived. Luckey’s oldest daughter, who has cerebral palsy, did her best to keep her younger siblings safe in the car while they waited, because Luckey was in immense pain. “I had to go through my texts and get my cousin’s address because she had left and I had no idea where we were,” she said. “Thankfully, there was a guy in the parking lot who asked if I needed help. He ran inside and came out with two jugs of Dani Luckey poses with her water bottle sporting a sticker that water. He poured the water over my legs and his girlfriend or reads “I can and I will.” The stickers were sold by Pep & Punch See LUCKEY, Page 4 as a way to raise funds for Luckey’s medical bills and living expenses while she recovers from a severe burn. (Courtesy Photo)

City Council votes to resolve issues with TCEQ

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer The City finally resolved its years-long issues with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) at a council meeting Aug. 4. Natasha Martin of Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody law firm, has represented the City of Liberty Hill on its TCEQ matters. She presented the settlement agreement from TCEQ that will resolve all alleged allegations of exceedances to wastewater effluent limitations. “This result has been in the works since the spring and it’s actually a really positive outcome for the City,” Martin said. ©2021 The Liberty Hill Independent

“This settlement requires the City to install two devices at the wastewater plant that will measure your nutrient concentrations.” According to the agreement, the analyzers will detect phosphorous and ammonia concentrations in the efﬂuent during the treatment process, and notices can be set to detect levels below the permitted limits. Detection will occur early enough in the treatment process to allow operators to adjust treatment protocols consistent with allowable methods in the permit (such as adding alum or other chemicals) to lower concentration levels prior to any discharge of the treated efﬂuent. The nutrient analyzers will ensure that the facility is able to operate under its permitted limits. “These devices are not currently required in the stan-

dard permit, so it would be an add on for the City,” Martin added. “The City will have to follow a schedule to get the devices implemented by Nov. 30 of this year. I’ve already consulted with [your wastewater staff] and city staff, and they are all on board and recommend this is the way we go.” Martin added that TCEQ had already provisionally approved the agreement, and that counter approval was needed from the Council, which voted unanimously Aug. 4 to approve it. The cost to install both devices is $45,666, and City Administrator Lacie Hale said there is money in the budget to pay for these devices. Also at the meeting, Mayor Liz Branigan requested representatives from the Texas

See COUNCIL, Page 9

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

LHISD Trustees toured newly-completed construction at Liberty Hill High School Monday. Trustee Anthony Buck views a special containment area inside a chemistry lab.

LHISD Board approves $7.6 million in school design fees

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer The Liberty Hill Independent School District Board of Trust-

ees during a special called meeting on Monday approved $7.6 million in design fees for three ﬁrms and the ability to negotiate with a fourth on var-

ious school projects. Santa Rita Middle School, which opens to students for the

See LHISD, Page 5

Page 2

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

OBITUARY Norma Baker Fleet passed away on August 9, 2021 at the age of 76 in Georgetown with her daughters by her side. Norma was born October 9, 1944 in Liberty Hill, Texas to JL and Nina Baker. Norma spent the majority of her career with Advantage Solutions working as a retail merchandiser. Her tenure spanned 20+ years as a valued asset to her company and co-workers. She made many life-long friends and associates along her way! In her earlier years, she was also employed by McCormick, Eckerd Drugs, Seven Eleven and Food Land, to name a few. Norma valued work ethic and was an exemplary example of doing the right thing in life.

Thursday, August 12, 2021

Norma Baker Fleet

Norma had a passion for travel. She was recently afforded the opportunity to visit Alaska and be with her eldest daughter, Teresa. Alaska was at the top of her list of destinations to see. It brings the family great comfort to know that she was able to embark on this trip in her last year here on Earth. In summary, Norma spent her life giving and caring for those that needed it most. Whether it was customer service or being a caretaker for her friends and parents later in life, there was no shortage of love and compassion when she found someone in need. Norma was preceded in death by her parents JL and Nina Baker. She is survived by her sister

Mary Ellen Baker of Liberty Hill, three daughters Teresa Casey and husband Shawn of Fairbanks, Alaska, Michelle Holder of Littleton, Colorado, Shelly Wheeler and husband Rick of Hutto. One son, Edward Holder of Liberty Hill. Nine grandchildren: Lealand Raiford, Chase Raiford, Hayley Stieg, Crystal Presley, Klarissa Schneider, Tia Ojeda, Cody Wheeler, Dawson Wheeler, and Kaitlyn Wheeler. Thirteen great-grandchildren: Kenzye Raiford, Bowen Raiford, Jewelya Raiford, Heath Stieg, Colt Stieg, Grant Raiford, Avery Presley, Joseph Presley, Jaden Benavidez, Leia Schneider, Mikah Schneider, Naomi Schneider, Forrest Schneider

Visitation will be at Ramsey funeral home from 6:00-8:00 Thursday August 12th. Graveside service will be Friday August 13th at the Mather Cemetery in Liberty Hill, TX at 10:00 am with Pastor Danny Cook ofﬁciating.

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Week of Aug. 2-8, 2021 The Liberty Hill Police Department responded to or self-initiated a total of 601 incidents resulting in 11 cases, 46 citations, 73 warnings and no arrests.

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the Green Bur Oak Loop for an alarm call. - On Aug. 3 at approximately 12:50 PM, officers responded to Holmes Rd. for a 911 hang up call. - On Aug. 3 at approximately 2:00 PM, officers responded to Weekly Highlights: the 16000 block of W. SH 29 - On Aug. 2 at approximately to assist the Liberty Hill ISD 6:49 AM, officers responded to Police Department. the 13000 block of W. SH 29 - On Aug. 3 at approximately for a traffic hazard, 9:54 PM, officers responded - On Aug. 2 at approximately to Hillcrest Lane to assist the 10:02 AM, officers responded Liberty Hill Fire/ EMS. to the intersection of W. SH 29 - On Aug. 4 at approximately and CR 214 for an accident. 12:39 AM, officers responded - On Aug. 2 at approximately to Jennifer Lane to assist the 12:19PM, officers responded to Williamson County Sheriff’s the 14000 block of W. SH 29 Office. for a fraud complaint. - On Aug. 4 at approximately - On Aug. 2 at approximately 7:18AM, officers responded to 9:01PM, officers issued a ci- the 300 block of Loop 332 for tation for possession of drug a suspicious person. paraphernalia as the result of a - On Aug. 4 at approximately traffic stop on the 15000 block 12:42 PM, officers responded of W. SH 29. to Hillcrest Lane to assist the - On Aug. 2 at approximately Liberty Hill Fire/ EMS. 10:09 PM, officers issued a ci- - On Aug. 4 at approximately tation for minors in possession 2:42 PM, officers responded to of alcohol and tobacco, as the the 13000 block of W. SH 29 result of a traffic stop at the for a suspicious vehicle. 12000 block of W. SH 29. - On Aug. 4 at approximately - On Aug. 3 at approximately 6:08 PM, officers responded to 5:17 AM, officers responded to the 10000 W. SH 29 for loose livestock. - On Aug. 5 at approximately 8:26 AM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH

29 for follow up on an earlier call. - On Aug. 5 at approximately 3:22 PM, officers responded to the 16000 block of W. SH 29 to assist the Liberty Hill ISD Police Department search for a runaway. - On Aug. 5 at approximately 3:33 PM, officers responded to Falcon Lane to retrieve the runaway. - On Aug. 5 at approximately 6:15 PM, officers responded to CR 266 for a citizens assist. - On Aug. 6 at approximately 12:25 AM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for suspicious activity. - On Aug. 6 at approximately 2:15 AM, officers responded to the 15000 block of W. SH 29 for suspicious activity. - On Aug. 6 at approximately 8:27 AM, officers responded to the 11000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident. - On Aug. 6 at approximately 11:04 AM, officers responded to the 10000 block of W. SH 29 for a theft complaint. - On Aug. 6 at approximately 11:59 AM, officers responded to the 16000 block of W. SH 29 for a disturbance. - On Aug. 6 at approximately 7:29 PM, officers responded to the 19000 block of W. SH 29 to assist the Williamson Coun-

ty Sheriff’s Office. - On Aug. 7 at approximately 3:03 AM, officers responded to the 1000 block of US 183 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Aug. 7 at approximately 11:15 AM, officers responded to Liberty Way Trail for a suspicious person. - On Aug. 7 at approximately 7:26 PM, officers responded to Independence Ave for a traffic hazard. - On Aug. 7 at approximately 9:48 PM, officers responded to the 2000 block of US 183 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Aug. 7 at approximately 10:29 PM, officers responded to Green Egret for a traffic hazard. - On Aug. 8 at approximately 3:25AM, officers responded to Flexus Lane to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Aug. 8 at approximately 12:18 PM, officers responded to the 3000 block of RM 1869 for a disturbance. - On Aug. 8 at approximately 1:14 PM, officers responded to the 14000 block of W. SH 29 for a trespassing complaint.

PEC launches SMS alert service

JOHNSON CITY — As part of Pedernales Electric Cooperative’s (PEC’s) commitment to keep members informed, the cooperative has launched a one-way emergency SMS (text) alert service. “The new system, allows PEC to send text messages to members’ mobile phones during emergency situations, including prolonged power interruptions and peak energy demand conditions,” said Mike Viesca, PEC executive vice president

Verify your identity and protect your accounts by using your phone to create additional security. Just another way we put your banking FIRST!

of public affairs. PEC members with a valid mobile phone number on ﬁle will automatically receive a text message verifying their enrollment. The message will come from number 25022, and will look similar to the message below. Standard message rates and data charges may apply, and members can opt out of these alerts if they prefer not to receive them by texting STOP to the veriﬁcation message.

Members can verify their mobile phone number is on ﬁle by logging into SmartHub or by calling 888-554-4732. PEC will soon release additional texting features, including the ability for members to report and receive updates on outages, request billing information, and text with an agent. Members who have questions may reach out to a PEC agent by calling, 888-554-4732 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page 3

EDITORIAL:

Council is on path to good government as civics lesson unfolds

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

Williamson County ESD #4 Fire Chief Anthony Lincoln revisits the budget he presented to the Board of Commissioners during their regular meeting this week.

WCESD#4 Commissioners consider 10% drop in tax rate

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer Commissioners of the Williamson County Emergency Services District No. 4 met Monday to approve a reduced tax rate linked to their budget to fund operations and building a third fire station for the district. The budget adoption is pending approval of a tax rate of $0.083155 per $100 property value -- a 10 percent decrease from last year. The rate is expected to be adopted following a public hearing on Aug. 30. “We have to do a preliminary approval first,” said Fire Chief Anthony Lincoln. “We have to advertise the tax rate and hear from the public before getting it approved.” The $6.3 million budget will include staffing for a new station on CR 200 near the Clearwater Ranch subdivision and help pay for a new fire engine for it and other vehicles used by the department. “We put funding towards designing fire station number three,” said Lincoln. “We bought equipment for the fire truck that’s going in service here at the end of the year, one more vehicle to be used for training and a backup vehicle for our battalion chiefs and our Fire Marshal.” Although the new station will not open until 2022, Lin-

coln said extra time is needed to make sure the engines are ready to use as the new station opens. “(Fire engines) have a build time of about 12-14 months,” he said. “You have to think at least a good year ahead of where you’re trying to be. The ladder truck we ordered last year is supposed to come off the production line in November.” The ladder truck would be the first for the district and would be operational by February 2022, said Lincoln. The new station creates new jobs, but will also shift some seasoned first responders around. “We’re hiring about 15 people,” said Lincoln. “It’ll take 12 to staff the station, but we have to have an additional release staff and to fill the vacancies when those people take off. We never stick all brand-new people in the station, and they get dispersed in all the stations. You balance out the inexperience with experience.” Firefighters with WCESD are compensated according to a step plan with yearly increases capping at 10 years. The new budget will alter that for veterans of the department. “They (the Board of Commissioners) also adopted an alternate change to our compensation plan,” said Lincoln. “We adopted that to go up to

20 years. Anybody we had that was over 10 years would be frozen until we moved our starting pay.” Lincoln said a new administrative position for the department was also included in the budget. “Right now, we have just one, only have one,” he said. “I have a manager that does all our support staff since everything we do, we do inhouse.” The weather early in the year changed the outside appearance of station two. Lincoln said the budget would also include funding to revitalize it. “We had some money towards doing some makeover on our landscaping and replacing a bunch of plants and stuff that we lost during the freeze,” he said. Lincoln said the budget, when approved, would allow them to keep up with the ever-growing needs of Liberty Hill. “There’s a lot of thought went into our budget to get us through to the next year,” he said. “Our budget continued to increase as a result of the growth around us in our district.” The Board also approved the 2019-2020 annual audit. “Everything is accounted for. We passed with ﬂying colors,” he said.

Last year, the voters of Liberty Hill spoke with great clarity when they elected Mayor Liz Branigan. Incumbent Rick Hall faced more voters than had ever participated in any prior city election. The campaign pitted a soft-spoken “grandma” in an uphill battle against a well-financed, developer-backed incumbent. And even after the unexpected outcome, there remained those on the city council who did not read the very clear memo sent to the government by its citizens. Political denial became a very real syndrome at city council meetings. For a time, the arrogance of those voices left over from the Hall term shut down Mayor Branigan’s mandate for honesty, transparency and reform. Examples like questionable behavior regarding potential self-dealing, working outside the existing framework of the law, and the allocation of taxpayer funds were not allowed to be examined. In fact, the official record will show that legitimate questions from the Mayor were rudely and loudly shut down. So, the voters had to patiently re-up and speak up again and elect outsiders with the express intent of asking the hard questions, finding out the truth, and righting the ship. Governments, even smaller ones like the City of Liberty Hill, can’t act in drastic, monumental changes the minute a new mayor and city council are sworn into office. But a great civics lesson is unfolding right in front of our eyes with

Merger between Austin, Williamson County United Way organization will expand service in metro area

United Way for Greater Austin and United Way of Williamson County, who combined serve 10 counties in the Central Texas region, announced they have signed a management contract with intent to merge and are going through the operational, financial, and legal due diligence process as they move toward a merger. “As the Austin metro area grows, the boundaries between Travis and Williamson counties continue to blend; many people work in one and live in the other,” said David C. Smith, CEO of United Way for Greater Austin. “For our communities biggest challenges, more and more people are finding regional solutions optimal. This merger will help us better and more efficiently serve the Greater Austin community, while expanding and deepening our impact with a regional approach. Together, we can do more.” The Boards of Directors for both organizations approved the move in June 2021. The

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due diligence process is expected to be complete by the end of the year, with a further vote by both organizations’ Boards at that time. Until then, United Way for Greater Austin has a managing agreement with United Way of Williamson County, and is thoughtfully integrating the two organizations into one. “Integrating the services and expertise of our two organizations will help us better and more efﬁciently serve our community, both in Williamson County and the region,” said Jodee O’Brien, former CEO of United Way of Williamson County and current Director of Transitions & Advancement. “This is an exciting growth opportunity for us both.” Currently, both organizations offer services that: - Ensure families with young children are ﬁnancially stable - Provide quality early learning opportunities for children and students - Connect people to resourc-

es for food, health, housing, transportation, and more. There are no plans for eliminating programs, although it is envisioned that the merger will allow for programs to be upgraded, updated, and strengthened. Currently, both organizations are investing in two autonomous infrastructures. A merger will enable duplicate functions – such as HR, Finance, and Operations – to be streamlined into one. Those resources could then be invested in other functions and expanded programming. David C. Smith, CEO of United Way for Greater Austin, will be the CEO of the newly merged organization. The expanded organization will be named United Way for Greater Austin, with a mission to “bring people, ideas, and resources together to ﬁght poverty in our community.” The merger plan was ﬁrst explored in 2019 and supported by Austin Together Fund.

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the serious, thoughtful manner in which the new council is seeking to get to the bottom of some very troubling questions about missing receipts, missing funds, and the helter-skelter manner in which the City has been run. Fundamentally, this newly-elected city council is going about doing the very tedious and difficult work of governing. This is what it looks like when fellow citizens are elected for the express purpose of cleaning up a political mess made by others. We should applaud their efforts as they seek to find the truth. Since they’ve made clear that they do not know the answers to the questions they are asking, we should settle in and give them time to find out where all the facts lead them. At some point will they need to turn over their findings to state law enforcement? County or state prosecutors? We don’t know that yet and neither do they. However, they do know something is wrong. There is no way that a city should be run in secret. It appears that a lot of official energy was spent in misplacing financial records or possibly hiding the final destinations of the public’s money. No doubt it will take just as much energy or more in discovery to find all the answers. But, this week the Mayor and Council have clearly telegraphed to all of us that they are on the hunt. This is great news for good government.

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year long, every year — academics, character, and community — in everything that we do,” he said. “If you look at your role in this district, you will be able to personalize that vision. Keep those expectations high. Push kids harder than they’ve ever been pushed before, but make sure you celebrate, make sure you build up, and that we’re taking care of ourselves and each other.” Assistant Superintendent Todd Washburn addressed those present and kicked off ice-breakers for the educators before they broke into specialized groups. “If you haven’t figured it out yet, here, we are all about relationships,” he said. “We believe that no significant journey occurs without a significant relationship. (Students) don’t care how much you know until they know that you care. What makes us special is that we all work together to make us strong and create the culture we’re looking for.” Kelly Killingswort will join the Santa Rita Elementary team as a first-grade teacher. “I’m very excited,” she said. “I used to work at Laura Bush Elementary in Leander. I was there for 13 years. We are building a house in Liberty Hill and were looking for

LUCKEY

a school that was closer to home. I’m excited about the small-town feel and working with new teachers and being a part of this community.” Sasha Estrada is eager to return to the functional Social Communications class she teaches after a year away from the classroom. “I’m coming back from ﬁghting a battle last year,” she said. “I’m coming back for my seventh year. This is truly a family. I’m excited to see the faces of my students that have missed me for a year. Seeing their faces and watching them grow through the years is outstanding, and it’s amazing. This is the best school district.” Johnathan Garcia, a new history teacher who will also coach football and basketball, wanted to honor a former coach by teaching at LHHS. “Jeff Walker coached me. He told me what a great community they had here, and I wanted to experience that,” he said. “I’m excited to work with a winning coach and great kids.” The number of new employees is higher than in previous years in response to a significant growth in enrollment, Snell said. “This is a very big number,” he said. “We are a fast-grow-

Continued from Page 1

wife—I have no idea who these people were—sat in the car with my kids to keep them calm.” The ambulance arrived quickly, and the paramedics immediately loaded Luckey and hooked her up to an IV, but she told them they could not take her to the hospital until she found someone to come pick up her kids. “It was crazy because I had to coordinate all this stuff, and I can’t even tell you the pain I was in,” she said. “I can’t describe it. It’s something that should be saved for only the worst people.” After her cousin returned to pick up her kids, Luckey was taken to Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin, where she stayed for the next two weeks. She had sustained second and third degree burns over 25 percent of her body -- basically, from the waist down. “At ﬁrst they told me I’d go home the next day, but I learned later that whenever you get burned, they can’t assess you until 48 to 72 hours later because your skin keeps burning for that long,” she said. “I went to the operating room twice to get treatments, and I got an infection once while in the hospital, so I had to get IV antibiotics and dressing changes every day.” Luckey said even though she had been given strong pain medicine the daily dressing changes were torture. “I would scream, so I ﬁnally got a towel to bite down on and a squishy sand ball to squeeze while they changed the dressing,” she said. “It was the worst thing I’ve ever experienced.” After her two-week hospital stay, Luckey was sent home to Florence, where she lives with her husband, Chris, and their three children. Her aunt, who runs a burn unit in another state, came to visit her and was

immediately concerned by the way Luckey appeared. “She was upset at the amount of dressing changes they had left for my husband to do,” she said. “He had to learn how to do wound care, aseptic technique, dressing change—all of it. She was just really upset at the way I looked and thought maybe I had another infection.” Her left leg was the most severe, and she could tell by the way it was feeling that something wasn’t right. She couldn’t put any weight on it, and she had only been out of the hospital for four days. “My aunt told me I should ﬁnd the closest burn unit, so I ended up going to the burn unit at Methodist in San Antonio,” Luckey said. “They started an IV on me, gave me meds again and cut the dressings off. The doctor came in and immediately said, ‘She has an infection, admit her to the hospital because she needs skin grafts.’ If I had stayed home, because I had that infection, I would have probably gotten septic and ended up losing my left leg or dying.” The next day, Luckey had full debridement and cadaver skin was put on most of her burns. The cadaver skin ended up not being enough, so Luckey opted to do a full skin graft as well. “It was a hard decision, because the burns covered my complete left leg and from my knee down on the right leg,” she said. “That’s a lot of area. They had to cut the skin from my mid-thigh all the way to hip on my right leg and scrape the skin off and then sew it onto my legs. Once the skin grafts were sewn on, I couldn’t get out of bed for three days and I had to wear knee immobilizers. It was extremely hard.” After the third day, she was able to move around a bit with the aid of a walker, but her

ing district. As of today, we have 1,569 new students registered. These teachers are here to accommodate the growth.” Snell expects the district to grow by 20 percent this year and continue upwards. “If you look at the demographic print, we’ll have upwards of 2,000 (new students) a year for the foreseeable future,” he said. “We’ll get new students each week all year long, and we’ll have some students that move out. So whatever our enrollment is on (the last Friday in October), that’s how the state decides what our funding will be for the next year.” At the end of Snell’s speech, he quoted former President John F. Kennedy’s words about the moon landing, comparing it to the achievements educators in the district can reach. “... because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too,” he said. “To me, that is the spirit of Liberty Hill ISD. We’re going to come to school every day, and we’re going to win at academics. We’re going

medications made her very nauseous and the added pain to her hip, where the skin was taken from for the grafts, made it hard for her to stand. “I felt like I was on fire again every time I stood up,” she said. “I didn’t even want to go to the bathroom because it burned like Hell.” Luckey is finally able to walk and drive a car again, but she has to do several small exercises daily to keep her legs healthy as they heal. She goes to the burn unit in San Antonio once a week so her doctor can reassess her status. After she heals, she will have to do physical therapy and special scar treatments to help break up the scar tissue, plus she’ll have to see a dermatologist every three to six months for a skin check, because now that she has been burned, her chances of getting skin cancer are much higher. During recovery Luckey also can’t sweat and can’t be in the sun unless her legs are covered. “My parents live on a lake, my kids play sports, and my oldest daughter is a cheerleader,” she said. “I’m going to have to figure out how to keep my legs covered in this Texas heat for at least the next year.” Even though Luckey has experienced the most intense pain of her life, she said the hardest part of this situation has been not having her kids. She wasn’t able to see them the first two weeks she was in the hospital, save for an hour one day when they were allowed to visit, and has only seen them one other night since she’s been out of the hospital. Her brother and sister-in-law, who live in Lubbock, have taken the kids to their house for the summer to play with cousins and give Luckey time to heal. Once the word got out to the Liberty Hill community, support started pouring in. Luck-

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

Teachers new to the school district attended orientation and training sessions this week. On Monday, Superintendent Steve Snell (standing) introduced new staff assigned to each campus. to win at sports. We’re going to win at band competitions. We’re not going to put it off, and we’re not going to make

ey, who used to own an esthetician business in Liberty Hill, said it’s been amazing seeing her community show up for her. Luckey had just started a new job in May and will be out for the next several months. She hopes to return to work before the end of the year. “I didn’t realize I knew that many people and that people would care so much,” she said. “They have all done way more than I ever expected. Seeing my community show up for me has been really cool. It’s so nice knowing that financially we’ll be okay and able to make our house payment while I’m out of work, so I can take the time I need to do physical therapy and scar treatment.” Luckey’s husband, Chris, works for the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. His department is raising funds for the family while he is out on FMLA to help care for his wife. “People from all over the country can donate to that, and we’ve had so many people donate from all over,” she said. “We have so many friends and family that donated way more than they needed to. It was just a blessing.” After that, local businesses started getting involved. The Liberty Hill Boss Babes group, a group of women business owners on Facebook, pooled money together to purchase groceries and paper goods for the family. Snap Happy Photography by Kim Sybert sold $20 raffle tickets for someone to win a full photography session. The Luckeys received over $1,000 from that project. At Pep & Punch, owner Renee O’Dell sold 100 stickers that said “I can & I will” in just a couple of days, with all proceeds going to the Luckeys. Bee Natural Cleaning has also been cleaning the Luckeys’ home for free while Luckey recovers. Later this month, on

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excuses. We’re going to win. (The students) are going to have an excellent year because of you and the work you do.”

Classes start in Liberty Hill on Aug. 19.

Dani Luckey was severely burned over 25 percent of her body when a can of dry shampoo exploded on her. (Courtesy Photo) Aug. 21, a pop-up shop will take place at Rys Above Nutrition in downtown Liberty Hill, where local business owners of Beautiful Chaos, Lyssa Loo’s and Parker’s Place Designs will be selling their wares and raising funds for Luckey. “Out of a bad situation, everything good that happened did,” Luckey said. “My kids didn’t get hurt. I would not be able to come back from that. My car didn’t blow up. My kids got to spend a month with their cousins, which was awesome, and I got to see the best of my family because everyone showed up for me.” Luckey added that there were a lot of things that could have gone worse, and when she thinks about that, she’s grateful. Her mantra in the hospital became “I can and I will,” just like the stickers that were sold, because she knew she had to overcome what happened to her for the sake of her family. “I’m hurt, but my kids weren’t hurt and that makes this all worth it,” she said. Luckey said her husband has stepped up in a big way over the last month, making sure

bills are paid and the house is taken care of, as well as chauffeuring her to all her doctor’s appointments and making sure she has the best at-home care. “I couldn’t do anything and I’m usually the coordinator of our lives, so it was just really nice that he stepped up,” Luckey said. “People don’t know what it’s like in the depths of it. He was seeing me at my lowest and worst. There were days I wasn’t a very good person or nice person and he still had to deal with it and help me.” Luckey said even though what happened to her is a rare occurrence, she wants others to know the risks of keeping dry shampoo or hairspray inside their hot cars. “You just don’t think about those things,” she said. “The cans just say, ‘ﬂammable under pressure,’ but in Texas on any given summer day, it’s more than 120 degrees in your car and people need to know to watch out for that. Hopefully people know that, especially young girls, because I know they always have things like dry shampoo in their cars.”

Thursday, August 12, 2021

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Page 5

Streets County Boundary

Middle School Attendance Zones 2021 Liberty Hill RD INE END BRIZ

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This map is a schematic intended only for casual purposes; do not rely on the accuracy of any details without independently confirming them. Document Path: \\geo\gis\Cities\Liberty Hill\LibertyHill_ISD\LHISD_Elem_Attendance_Zones_2021\LHISD_Elem_Attendance_Zones_2021.mxd

A schematic view of the school district’s attendance zones for middle school students. For a more precise view of the zones for Liberty Hill Middle School and Santa Rita Middle School, visit the school district’s website at www.libertyhill.txed.net. (Courtesy Graphic)

Zones

Continued from Page 1

as we look at the boundaries, we look at the short- and longterm results. We try to cause the least amount of disruption as possible.” Adding Noble Elementary, which will be the fifth elementary in the district, will balance the number of students on each elementary campus as well as relieve the capacity at some of the other campuses, Washburn said. In addition, renovations at both Noble Elementary and Liberty Hill Elementary will be taking place this school year so that capacity can increase at both of those schools in the future. For the 2021-22 school year, Rancho Sienna Elementary will house approximately 719 students who primarily live in the Rancho Sienna subdivision. Santa Rita Elementary will house approximately 735 students who primarily live in the Santa Rita Ranch subdivisions. Liberty Hill Elementary, the smallest campus in the

district, will house about 459 students living within the city limits of Liberty Hill and south of State Highway 29. Bill Burden Elementary will house approximately 776 students, who primarily live north of SH 29 and west of US Hwy 183. Noble Elementary will house approximately 616 students who primarily live north of SH 29 and north and east of Bill Burden Elementary’s boundaries, apart from a couple of pockets on the south side of the highway, including the Liberty Parke subdivision. “We are using demographer-projected enrollment numbers to help gauge and balance each campus,” Washburn said. “We want to have the capacity at all campuses to house the new enrolled students coming our way. We are also preparing to add another elementary school in fall 2023, and an additional one after that if the growth pattern continues.” Washburn added that the district’s growth is on track

and maybe even a little ahead of where the demographers projected it would be for the 2021-22 school year. Because LHISD is a fast-growth district, new students are being added daily. “With the way our growth is trending, we are building from the east out to the west,” he said. “We have higher pockets of increased population happening around the Highway 183 area, where Santa Rita Ranch is growing very quickly.” Washburn said rezoning will have to occur at the elementary level once again when a sixth school comes on board, but his office is doing its best to minimize the impacts rezoning will have on students. “The growth is coming, and we are preparing for it,” he said. “We are continually in contact with developers to get a gauge on how quickly homes are being built and their locations, and we work closely with our transportation department to provide

the fastest routes possible to reduce students’ time on buses. With a big chunk of our district still considered rural, there will be some travel time for some students, but it’s going to get more condensed as the population grows and students will see shorter times on buses and more neighborhood schools as we continue to develop the community.” Washburn said the revised attendance zones were presented during the LHISD’s school board meetings in the spring. A survey was also sent out to parents, allowing them to provide feedback to the district. Washburn said the feedback overall was positive and supportive, and he hopes that as the district continues to grow, the partnership with families will continue. “We want the community to know we appreciate their partnership in this and their understanding as we continue to grow,” he said. “We all want nothing but the best for all our students.”

LHISD Continued from Page 1

first time on Aug. 19, Liberty Hill High School, Liberty Hill Middle School, and Panther Stadium will all see expansions. In addition, a new middle school and elementary school will be constructed as part of the bonds approved by voters in May. Casey B. Sledge of Sledge Engineering presented the options to the board and explained the bidding process. “They (the firms) are required to submit a request for qualifications, and the Board selects the top firms based only on qualifications, not pricing yet; that’s just part of the process,” he said. “We received eight responses. There was a lot of good competition and some great scores. We’re asking to consider a selection ranging of the top three firms.” The Board unanimously approved a resolution to begin negotiations with Austin-based Bartlett Cocke for the $20 million expansion of Santa Rita

Middle School, Liberty Hill High School and Panther Stadium. “We will likely negotiate contracts with them unless we just can’t come to terms,” said Sledge. The funding also included design fees for creating a third middle school and a sixth elementary school for the district. “We’re recommending PBK for middle school number three,” said Sledge. “We’ve been working with PBK a lot, and they’ve done a great job.” The middle school contract was awarded to the VLK firm for $1.1 million and the contract for the elementary school to Pfluger Architects for $2.32 million. Sledge said all bids came under what the district had budgeted. During the meeting, the Board also discussed STAAR testing and COVID-19 guidelines for the upcoming school year. (See related story on Page 1.)

Liberty Hill & Surrounding Communities

SPORTS

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, August 12, 2021 Page 6

Learning to lead in the system

Senior signal-caller is confident

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Senior Will Szewczyk (#11) is currently in a competition for the Panthers’ starting quarterback position with the season-opener looming against Ellison on Aug. 27.

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When the Liberty Hill offense takes its opening possession of the season against Ellison in a few weeks, Will Szewczyk hopes to be the one under center as the starting quarterback. So far, the senior signal-caller is doing all the right things as far as making that dream a reality, said Liberty Hill head coach Kent Walker. “Will is becoming a great leader,” he said. “His attitude and demeanor are excellent and he commands the huddle well, so right now, he has a little bit of an edge.” Competing with Szewczyk for the starting job is sophomore Joe Pitchford, who played as a freshman at Rouse last season, and junior Reese Vickers. It’s a contest that is by no means over yet. “It’s still a battle,” said Walker, who is beginning his first full season as the Panthers’ sideline boss. “Competition is what drives us.” Following the likes of former quarterbacks Jacob Cearley and Charlie Calabretta is cer-

tainly no small task and Walker knows he needs one of his current crop to step up and fill the cleats of their predecessors. “In any offense, you always look to the quarterback,” he said. “He always needs to have command.” According to Szewczyk, the process is going along quite smoothly. “I’m already light years ahead of where I was in the spring,” said Szewczyk. “I feel like I’m getting fine-tuned.” Szewczyk is entering his third year in the Panthers’ program and got some playing time last season, but there’s a big difference between being a backup and a potential starter, he said. “Yeah, it’s a lot different,” said Szewczyk. “There’s a lot more intensity and you have to be engaged at all times and making sure everyone’s dialed in.” Adding to the challenge of finding a new quarterback this season, Walker must also replace the other 10 players on the offensive side of the ball,

See FOOTBALL, Page 8

Senior setter stepping up

Lady Panthers playmaker confident in running team

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Emma Parsons was still in seventh grade, she already stood 5-foot-6 and towered over most of her middle school opponents on the volleyball court. Certainly, a future as a high-flying outside hitter or a menacing middle blocker was in the offing. But, then a funny thing happened. Parsons stopped growing. “At first, I was really upset,” said Parsons. “But, in the back of my mind, I always thought I was going to be a setter.” In fact, in the five years since, she’s only gained a single inch in height, but her current 5-foot-7 frame belies her stature as the Lady Panthers’ leader, as Parsons plays an instrumental role in everything her team does on the court. Parsons runs both the offense and defense – meaning she’s a quarterback and middle linebacker all rolled up into one – a job description she’s become quite fond of, she said. “I like the fact I’m able to control what goes on and take charge,” said Parsons. “Sometimes, you have to tell the hitters how you’re going to do things.” Having the ability to command that kind of respect is something Parsons has gradually developed over the course of her high school career, said Liberty Hill head coach Gretchen Peterson.

“Emma’s been on varsity since she was a freshman and has always been super-talented,” she said. “She has a really high volleyball IQ and is now more confident, so she can say ‘Okay, this is my court and this is what we’re going to do’ – which you can do when you have the kinds of relationships she has with her teammates.” Along with those intangible traits, Parsons is also supremely skilled on the physical side of the game, said Peterson. “She plays very good defense and also blocks well,” she said. “Emma’s super-strong and not afraid to work in the weight room.” For the past two seasons, Parsons has worked in tandem with senior Emma Becker to set up the Lady Panthers’ hitters on the front row, but this season Becker has moved to an outside hitter position, which means although Parsons will have a new partner in channeling balls to the net, she will be the primary focus of opposing defenses, which will present her with an additional challenge, she said. “It’s an advantage to have two good setters,” said Parsons, who led Liberty Hill with 449 assists last season in averaging 5.9 per set. “But, now it will be easier to read me and what I’m going to do.” However, with more responsibility on her shoulders comes the opportunity to become even more familiar with what kind of deliveries the hitters

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Senior Emma Parsons (#10) has developed into the Lady Panthers’ primary playmaker in running the court from her setter position. prefer. the knowledge and ability to “I think the mental part of my “I get to work more with all be able to customize her ser- game has improved the most,” of the hitters,” she said. “So, vice depending on who’s on said Parsons. “When I first got it’s easier to get into a groove.” the receiving end of one of her to varsity, I just got the ball up Part of that groove is having passes. to where it needed to be, but

now I can think more about strategy and put the ball right where each hitter wants it.” So, are some of the big bombers up front more picky and harder to please than others? “Honestly, it depends on how each hitter wants the ball, but also the situation and where they are,” she said. “Also, you have to know the personality of each player.” In addition, having the ability to improvise is paramount when a particular play doesn’t exactly go according to plan. “Sometimes, I have to hit a ball which is out of system,” said Parsons. “If it’s to the outside, it’s easier because there’s more room, but the middle is more difficult.” Along with everything else Parsons brings to the court, Peterson said she has a blue-collar style of play that fuels her to go above and beyond her volleyball duties. “Emma’s selfless, which is her strongest character trait,” she said. “She’s not afraid to dive into the bleachers after a ball – she makes other people better and gives you everything she has every day.” Which is exactly what one would expect from someone who pressed on with a passion despite the fact her positional dreams died once she stopped moving up the growth chart. “Moving to setter was a natural progression for me,” said Parsons. “I’ve always liked running the court.”

Tennis tryouts test team’s mettle

Players’ rankings at stake during matches

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor On a late afternoon at the purple-surfaced complex the Liberty Hill tennis team calls home, the entire Panthers squad had gathered in the shade under one of the coverings usually reserved for spectators. All of them, that is, except for senior Ethan Wukasch and sophomore Joseph Sherman, who were still doggedly dueling one another in the midsummer heat in the final match of the day while their teammates carefully observed. The occasion was the middle day of a three-day tryout the team conducts in the run-up to the season opener in order to get the players back into compete mode before the new campaign begins and provides Liberty Hill head coach Sherry Rhoden with a measuring stick to gauge where her players are before the matches begin to count for real, she said.

“I want to see how much work they put in over the summer,” said Rhoden, who is beginning her second season as Panthers head coach. “I want them to feel pressure to start the season.” The pressure is provided by the format of the tryouts in which the girls and boys play a round-robin tournament against one another with the results determining the singles rankings on either side of the gender line entering the season. Senior Ellis Young starts the season as the Panthers’ girls’ No. 1 singles player and said she uses the three days to hone her game and get re-acclimated to her teammates. “I don’t really view it as a tryout,” she said. “It’s hard to play against your friends.” Such as when Young found herself across the net from fellow senior and No. 2 singles player Sophie Sherman, who just happens to be one of her

best buddies, which creates a conundrum for her. “It messes with your mind,” said Young, who advanced to the regional finals during last year’s spring season. “You feel bad because you don’t always want to call a ball out.” However, for boys’ No. 1 singles player Joseph Sherman, it’s much easier to be ruthless in such situations, he said. “When I’m in a match, I don’t know who you are,” said Sherman. “I have the same mindset as against anyone – we can be friends again afterward.” The players contest a single set in each matchup, then move on to the next opponent until they’ve faced all of their teammates, which is something that can occur at any point during the season when a “challenge” match is played – a practice match to determine whether or not two players in SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO the Panthers’ pecking order Senior Ellis Young is the Panthers’ No. 1 girls’ singles player entering the new season and is focused on making the most of her final year of high-school competition.

See TENNIS, Page 8

Thursday, August 12, 2021

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Fields crisis grips local youth league

Page 7

Community growth has exceeded current space

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor As the community continues to grow by leaps and bounds, it seems as if more and more brand-new storefronts, strip centers and industrial complexes are appearing in order to service the ever-growing population. But, the growth spurt isn’t only restricted to retail space. Santa Rita Middle School is set to open this fall and it’s only a matter of time until a second high school springs up with the increase in students as more and more young families move to Liberty Hill as a result of the explosive upward curve of companies choosing Austin for a base of operations, which in turn floods the surrounding suburban areas with thousands of new residents. Of course, more students in the local school district means more young athletes to grace the fields and courts of Liberty Hill in a community that centers much of its social activity around sports. All that is well and good for sports such as football, volleyball, basketball and soccer for which there are plenty of venues for youngsters to hone their skills as they work their way up the ladder before eventually reaching the high school level. However, baseball and soft-

ball are a different ball of wax altogether, as a critical shortage of field space is currently threatening the viability of youth leagues in those respective sports – a fact that is exacerbated exponentially by the absence of both games at the middle school level for the same reason. In fact, one could say the reverse of the iconic line from the movie “Field of Dreams” rings true locally. It hasn’t been built, but they’re coming anyway. For Jake Thomas, president of Liberty Hill Youth League, this is a nightmare scenario for the future of youth baseball and softball in the local area. “Ultimately, we won’t have enough space to facilitate all the kids we have here,” he said. “But, if we have more fields, we’ll be able to cultivate all that talent.” Currently, the league has six fields at its disposal in various parts of town, including two at Lions Foundation Park, two at the downtown complex and one each at Liberty Hill Middle School and Liberty Hill Elementary School. On the surface, it might seem like plenty of space, but considering there are already 550 players between baseball and softball across multiple age groups in the pipeline, that’s hardly the case. With partici-

pation numbers continuing to swell, the lack of field space certainly doesn’t bode well, which is why Thomas has already taken his case before the Liberty Hill City Council, as well as Liberty Hill Independent School District Board of Trustees and the City’s Parks and Recreation Board. “Right now, we’re in the early stages of things with the City Council and Parks department,” said Thomas, who has been league president for a year and involved with LHYL for six years. “But, my concern is by the time we can navigate everything in order to get city land to build on, we’ll have to limit the number of kids we have in the meantime.” According to Thomas, the other option is private fundraising for the league to build additional fields on a piece of land located just south of old Panther Stadium on school district grounds – a plan that seems to have more momentum at the moment. “We could add four or five more fields there,” said Thomas. “With those, we could dedicate the two fields at Foundation Park for softball only.” Another conundrum dogging the league, which makes the entire process more complicated, is the different field sizes and dimensions required for the different sports – not

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Liberty Hill Youth League has proposed to build additional fields on a piece of land located on school district property south of old Panther Stadium. to mention age groups within each. However, Thomas said he’s grateful for the chance to present the league’s proposal to the school board. “We really appreciate the opportunity to have been able to speak at the school board meeting,” he said. “If anybody is aware of the growth of our community from a youth standpoint, it’s them.” Economic impact The plan to add fields adjacent to the already-existing pair near downtown would create a complex that would be capable

of hosting tournaments, which would draw teams from far and wide, meaning more visitors to bolster the local economy, said Thomas. “If we could host tournaments at that location, it would boost the downtown economy because there are so many things nearby,” he said. “Not only for our organization, but also for select programs as Liberty Hill would be a destination for an entire weekend – it’s all part of the master plan.” Thomas said the first phase of the proposed project would cost an estimated $500,000 and would include fencing,

dugouts, lights and a concession stand in addition to the fields. Hope for the future Thomas is confident the league’s current board members are in the right place at the right time. “Our number one priority is to have more fields in order to be able to have more practices and games,” he said. “We’re very optimistic with the people we have on our board who are passionate about youth baseball and softball. If anyone can get it done, it’s this group.”

Baseball, softball need to be middle school sports By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Imagine for a moment, if you will, a Liberty Hill that was devoid of football at the middle school level, with no feeder program to get players ready for the high school game. Then, take that situation and apply it to volleyball or basketball or soccer – or really any other sport young Panthers play. Pretty outrageous, don’t you think? Well, that’s exactly the situation baseball and softball find themselves in.

Indeed, our national pastime and its sister sport aren’t featured at the middle school level in Liberty Hill, which leaves only local youth leagues to groom the Purple-and-Gold diamond dwellers of tomorrow. One of the reasons for this is the lack of fields locally, but that’s certainly no legitimate reason as there is plenty of room to build some. Only for that to happen, the powers-that-be must be on the same page as far as who does what, where and when and we know asking that is many times a bridge too far. As Liberty Hill continues to grow and more and more young families move here, there are scores of young athletes to fill the ranks of the Pan-

thers’ various teams across the sports spectrum, so one would expect along with all the strip centers and so forth going up everywhere we look, perhaps a few backstops can be added to the local landscape. However, where will the money come from? Good question. But, with all the money the school district just got with the passage of the new education bond, you would think a few baseball and softball fields would be in the budget. After all, an entire new school – Santa Rita Middle School – is opening this fall and will field teams in all of the above-mentioned sports except for the two in question. Suppose you’re a youngster about to enter sixth grade

who’s game of choice happens to be baseball or softball. You’re psyched because you’re only one step away from the big time of the varsity high school level, which is something you’ve dreamed about since you first picked up a bat and glove. But, sorry, Sparky, there’s no team for you to play on for the next three years – at least not in a school sense. Speaking of sense, does that make any at all? We’re not going to pretend to understand all of the internal machinations that go on inside the organizations charged with making things like this happen and there are undoubtedly some people who would offer an explanation for this blatant oversight, which would actu-

ally make sense – at least on the surface. But, we’re sorry. On the surface or below, there’s no reason for these two staples of American sports to not be offered at the middle school level. No excuse on God’s Green Earth for this to be the case. Have baseball and softball really been devalued to the point where neither is warranted to have teams below high school? If so, it’s a shame and needs to be corrected. Yesterday. Usually, we stay out of anything political, but unfortunately with matters such as this red tape always has to be part of the equation in rearing its ugly head until no solution

can be agreed upon which means the status quo stays in effect. Lastly, let’s not forget much of Liberty Hill High School’s sports success over the years has been attributed to indoctrinating young athletes in the “Panther Way” at a young age – particularly on the gridiron where the vaunted Slot-T offense is taught even at the lower levels. Shouldn’t baseball and softball have the same kind of reliable pipeline of talent that can be properly cultivated? We think so. Make it happen, people.

PANTHER OF THE WEEK

Pass-rushing menace laid back off field Panthers’ senior a sack specialist

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Lloyd Johnson, Jr. is a nice guy. Really. “I’m actually a really friendly person,” said Johnson, a Liberty Hill senior defensive end. “But, people see me walking around and I have kind of a mean look on my face. But, once you get to know me, you find out I’m just a chill guy.” Try telling that to opposing quarterbacks on the gridiron, though. Johnson stands 6-foot-2 and tips the scales at 250 pounds, adding size and strength to speed and quickness, which allows him to terrorize opponents and cause chaos in backfields. However, despite his status as a Division I prospect as a pass rusher, Johnson grew up playing all over the field, including running back and linebacker before he settled into his current dominant role for the Purple-and-Gold. Last season as a junior, he compiled six sacks, along with 60 tackles – 11 for a loss – to go with 15 quarterback hurries in his first full campaign as a starter and this season has some numbers in mind he’s shooting for – but, he’s not telling anyone. “I’m keeping that a secret,” said Johnson. “But, when I get to that number, I’ll make it known.”

Johnson was born in Hollywood, Florida, but by the time he reached high school, he was in Killeen where he played his freshman season at Ellison before moving south to Liberty Hill after his mother – a U.S. Army veteran stationed at Fort Hood decided to leave the military. When he first arrived in his new home, it wasn’t exactly what he was used to – including in a football sense – he said. “You walk into Ellison and there’s some really big guys,” said Johnson. “I came to Liberty Hill not knowing what to expect, but right away I saw the work ethic and passion people here have for football, which is more than other places.” Johnson switched from No. 44 to No. 17 before his junior campaign last season, but said there was no superstition or significant meaning behind the swap. “My sophomore year, No. 17 belonged to (former Liberty Hill kicker) Mason Shipley,” he said. “It’s just always been my favorite number.” Johnson has already received scholarship offers from Houston Baptist University, Sam Houston State University and the University of the Incarnate Word – all Division I programs – and there are certainly many more on the way who would like to secure his services.

But, that doesn’t mean he’s getting ahead of himself and wrapped up in what the future holds. “I’m only focused on what’s right in front of me,” he said. Although perhaps a bit undersized for defensive end, Johnson makes up for what he may be lacking in that department with an explosiveness off the line that enables him to blow by blockers on his way to the passer. “I’m more of a speed guy,” said Johnson. “I think my power is what separates me.” Once he reaches his destination and his objective is within reach, Johnson closes on quarterbacks with the ferocity and accuracy of a heat-seeking missile on a search-and-destroy mission – and the resulting explosion is what he lives for, he said. “I can’t really explain how it feels when I get a sack,” said Johnson. “I get really excited and feel like I just won everything.” Of course, every accomplished sackmaster needs a trademark victory celebration and although he hasn’t had one up to this point, Johnson is getting ready to unveil an original concoction at some point soon. “I’m thinking about a ‘dropping the hammer’ move or something,” he said. Johnson’s favorite subject in

See JOHNSON, Page 8

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Panthers senior defensive end Lloyd Johnson, Jr. (#17) is really a nice guy – unless you’re a quarterback on an opposing team.

Page 8

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, August 12, 2021

In Memory

Liberty Hill’s fishing team held the 4th Annual Rippin’ Lips For Red tournament at Lake Buchanan recently to honor the memory of the late Cade Riley, as 155 teams competed. Scotty Morris caught the big bass, which weighed in at 6.8 pounds and Jackson Dillard was awarded the highest scholarship payout of $3,000. (Courtesy Photo)

Covid

Continued from Page 1

teacher orientation Monday. “Keeping schools safe in that regard is important.” He continued by stating how the pandemic changed education and talked about the accommodations the district made last school year. “We got to the point where we could take our masks off at the end of the year, and the numbers continued to go down,” said Snell. “Now we have a new reality. We have new rules that we can play by, some things we can do, and some things we can’t do.” The politics of masks and the vaccine was not something Snell said he would go into and added the district would not force things one way or the other. However, he urged new staff to take precautions and use any extra protection available to them. “I would encourage each one of you as adults to get a vaccine,” he said. “It’s not perfect, it’s not the ‘be all end all, but it is a level of protection. I would also encourage you all that when school comes back to wear masks. I can’t push you

to wear masks. But it comes down to a point where we’re red, and the positivity rates are way up there. At the end of the day, we want to keep you safe. If you’re safe, we can keep our students safe, and if they’re safe, we can have a productive school year without interruptions.” After seeing political division about the vaccine and masks on social media and other places, Snell encouraged the newcomers to focus on their job as educators when it came to disagreements. “Once we get back, everyone is going to have an opinion,” he said. “We’ve seen it all over social media, all over the place. We need to promote that culture that we’re here to teach kids. We’re here to take care of kids and each other. We’re not here to argue anything. We’re not here to say whether someone is right or wrong. We’re here to teach kids and love on kids. That’s my expectation of y’all. Keep it positive and keep our culture positive.” Travis Motal, Director of Secondary Education and Di-

“I would encourage each one of you as adults to get a vaccine. It’s not perfect, it’s not the ‘be all end all, but it is a level of protection. I would also encourage you all that when school comes back to wear masks. I can’t push you to wear masks. But it comes down to a point where we’re red, and the positivity rates are way up there. At the end of the day, we want to keep you safe. If you’re safe, we can keep our students safe, and if they’re safe, we can have a productive school year without interruptions.”

~ LHISD Superintendent Steve Snell

rector of Safety and Security, said during the Aug. 9 special board meeting that information about COVID-19 had grown stagnant with a sudden influx as of late. “We’ve been trying to sort out what’s the best plan for Liberty Hill going forward,” he said. The best course of action was presented as a new page on the district website focusing on COVID guidelines. Motal

explained that some of the policies have changed from the preceding school year. “We’re asking everyone to self-screen before they come in,” he said. “We’re encouraging hand sanitizing as much as possible. Masks are optional for students and staff. Spacing of three feet is recommended when possible. We’re really recommending hand-washing for 20 seconds. We’re continuing with hand sanitizing when students enter the classroom. Last year we did when they entered and they exited, and this year we’re doing away with the exiting. We do not have the isolation rooms this year.” One of the things the district compromised on, according to Motal, was the tradition of parents having lunch with their children at school. “We’re going to allow parents their normal first day of school, where they walk their kids to class,” he said. “It’s going to be like ‘walk your kids to class and then go,’ we’re not asking them to hang around. We’re letting them know on the first day of class.” Sports events and extracurriculars will not be affected,

Johnson

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Carter Hudson runs the ball behind blockers Devin Riley and Colton O’Dell during a recent practice as the Panthers are replacing the entire starting offense from last season.

Football

Continued from Page 6

including which running backs will line up in the backfield along with whoever takes the snaps. Sophomore Noah Long is certain to be a starter after seeing significant playing time last year as a freshman, picking up 421 yards on 39 carries to go with six touchdowns, with other candidates including juniors Logan Dyer and Carlton Schrank looking to break into the lineup. Walker said his team’s scrimmage against Hays this week will give him and his coaching staff more insight as far as what they’re up against in readying the Panthers for the season-opener at home against Ellison on Aug. 27. “I think it will allow us to see where we’re at right now,” said Walker, of his squad’s first

live, full-contact action against an opponent. “Hays is a strong Class 6A program, so it will tell us a lot about our team.” Following their scrimmage with the Hawks, the Panthers will host Boerne in another dress rehearsal on Aug. 19 before opening the season the following week – which means even more time to evaluate his players, he said. “We still have a lot of competition on both sides of the football,” said Walker. “There are a lot of pieces of the puzzle still missing.” Walker hopes some live competition will bring the best out in the players who will show themselves to have what he’s looking for in his starters. “When we watch film, we’re going to be looking for the kids who step up and con-

vince us they need to be on the field,” he said. “We want it to be a hard decision.” Szewczyk said it will definitely be gratifying to finally get some game action after the gauntlet he and his teammates have already been through during the dog days. “It’s going to be very satisfying to see all of our work and suffering in the offseason begin to pay off,” he said. “It really takes a toll on everyone.” However, nothing is supposed to be easy, a concept Walker and his players are well aware of, he said. “This is Liberty Hill football and we have certain expectations, which are to win and be successful,” said Walker. “We don’t rebuild, we reload.”

Continued from Page 7

school is science and is considering studying either cybersecurity or business once he reaches college, but before he gets to the next level, he knows he still has plenty of work to do, which motivates him to keep pushing even

Tennis

according to Motal, who said there were no limits on attendance, although he recommended attendees practice social distancing while at events. He emphasized there are no forced mandates but rather suggestions included in the guidelines. Snell said the only change in UIL regulations regarding COVID is that when students participating in extracurricular activities test positive, a physician’s note is required to return to participation. “COVID-19 was added to the communicable disease exclusion chart,” he said. State government, however, removed other authority the district had to respond to COVID, according to Snell. “What we don’t have is the authority to quarantine close contacts,” he said. “We don’t have the ability to send people home who aren’t COVID positive. The one exception is when … someone comes into the nurse’s office with obvious COVID symptoms.” Students and staff who test positive are required to disclose their status to the district, isolate for 10 days and come back with a doctor’s approval before returning to school, stated Motal. In addition, any positive cases will be reported to the county health department and the Texas Education Agency. “If you’re a student, you will be marked as an excused absence,” he said. “Students are responsible for missing work. Teachers are not going to be available for direct instruction, but they will respond to emails. If the student is not well, we want the student to rest and focus on getting well first before completing work. If a student is well enough to work, it will be best for the

when the going gets tough. “I want to be the best,” said Johnson. “So, I just follow my reason why.” Johnson said he enjoys spending time with family away from the field, which goes right along with his

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will swap spots for the next competition. But, despite what’s at stake during tryouts, Young said she’s more concerned with just getting back in the swing of things after a summer that saw her not play as much tennis as in years past. “I stopped playing USTA (U.S. Tennis Association) because it just got to be too much,” she said. “I wanted to be able to enjoy my summer.” After vacationing with her family in Nashville, Sea Island, Georgia and North Carolina, she’s back now and ready to play again – although she may have found a few new hobbies during her travels, she said.

“I tried archery and skeet shooting,” said Young. “Archery was cool, but I wasn’t very good at it and I don’t like when I’m not good at something.” However, Young is very good at tennis and is ready to make the most of her senior season, she said. “It’s the last time for me playing high school tennis,” said Young. “So, I want to go out on a good note.” Rhoden schedules the tryouts for various times of the day to further test her team’s mettle, she said. “I wanted to see how they would play in the heat of the afternoon,” said Rhoden. “But, also first thing in the

student to keep up with assignments as best as possible.” Motal added that students who haven’t tested positive but choose to quarantine without the school requiring it would face the consequences for their nonattendance. “You will have unexcused absences since you chose not to come to school,” he said. “It can accumulate as truancy, and they’re still responsible for their work.” No virtual option is available through LHISD. However, Motal said parents could sign up for the Texas Virtual School Network. “If you wish to enroll into a virtual option, you have to call the school to completely drop out,” he said. CARES Act monies used to supplement staff absences have run out as an extension created by the district to continue increasing the funds expired on June 30. Snell said the district is currently working on a new resolution to complement salaries by the next board meeting since teachers only get 10 sick days a year. “We’re hoping to bring a policy that shows how if a staff member gets COVID-19, tests positive, and is fully vaccinated can recover those sick days,” he said. “We want to take care of our staff. It will be optional if staff members decide to use this program.” While the district has dealt with COVID for more than a year, Snell said they are better prepared this time around and dealing more with the ever-changing data released almost daily. “We have a new variant that is more contagious,” he said. “We’ll continue to work on this through the year.”

easygoing demeanor and is approachable by nature, so one need not be intimidated by his hulking appearance. Unless, of course, you’re a quarterback. Then, he’s not so nice.

morning.” Carrying around a clipboard to record results, Rhoden also has a keen eye out for potential problems that may arise. “I’m always taking notes,” she said. “I need to know what our weaknesses are right now.” But, at the end of the day, Rhoden and her players are simply glad to be back in each other’s company and ready to roll for the new campaign. “I think they’re just happy to be back in an organized way and are looking forward to the fresh start of a new season,” she said. “As for me, this is my happy place.”

Thursday, August 12, 2021

COUNCIL

Page 9

Continued from Page 1

Department of Transportation come to the council meeting to present on traffic signals planned for Liberty Hill. Adam Kaliszewski, traffic engineer for TXDOT, said plans for a signal at State Highway 29 and County Road 214 are 100 percent completed, and materials are now being mobilized so that construction can begin this fall. The light will take approximately two months to install, and the signal should be active by the end of 2021 or early 2022. Another intersection selected for a traffic signal is RM 1869 and Loop 332 at the four-way stop. Kaliszewski said this project has a later timeline because it’s not as urgent as the other project, but construction on that light is expected to happen in summer 2022 with activation in fall 2022. John Peters, area engineer for TXDOT, added that another project, on US Highway 183 at Seward Junction, will add a center turn lane and shoulders from where Hwy 183A ends

STAAR

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

to the North San Gabriel River. That project was originally not going to happen until 2025 but was approved earlier to increase safety in that area. The Council also asked the TXDOT representatives about the speed limit being lowered on SH 29. Right now, the city attorney is reviewing an ordinance and resolution, which if approved by Council on Aug. 25, would change the speed limit from 55 to 50. Council member Tony DeYoung said he feels his constituents want the speed limit on SH 29 lowered even more to 45 MPH. He proposed the City host a town hall meeting with TXDOT and Williamson County to discuss the speed limit so that residents can ask questions and the further lowering of the speed limit can be explored. City staff will work on scheduling the town hall in the next few weeks. The Council also unanimously voted to retain the services of an interim city treasurer, Misty Hancock, which was ef-

Continued from Page 1

fective Aug. 6. “With our current ﬁnance director on FMLA leave, and with where we’re at in the meat of our budget with the timing of it having to be approved by Oct 1, staff has requested we bring in an interim treasurer to help with the budget,” Hale said. Another priority of Hancock’s would be to assist in completing the 2020 audit. Hancock said she is retired and not looking for permanent employment, but is happy to serve in a temporary capacity as needed. Matt Powell, economic development director for the Economic Development Corp., provided a semi-annual update to the Council on the state and activities of the EDC. The biggest takeaway from his presentation was that he is estimating that with City and EDC revenues combined—not including the library’s portion of sales tax—from Higginbotham’s, Golf Cart King, Tex Mix and Heritage Ridge at full

build out will generate $1.864 million annually. His five-year estimate for revenue generation for those businesses is $10.324 million. “There are good financial days ahead for the city,” he said. Council member Angela Jones asked Powell to start providing quarterly updates to the Council on what the EDC is up to, so that the two entities can work together better. The Council also unanimously agreed to authorize Powell to execute a contract with Bickerstaff Heath Delgado and Acosta for general legal services for the EDC. “Retaining our own legal counsel in itself can be a super charged idea, but this is not intended to create conflict,” Powell said. “The theater we are operating in is highly specialized. It was discussed at our retreat months ago that we wanted to move in this direction.” EDC Director Jamie Etzkorn said having separate legal

counsel for the EDC will help things get done faster, like amending the EDC’s bylaws, and will also prevent any conﬂicts of interest that could occur if the City’s attorney was representing both groups. An engagement letter with Cobby Caputo of the ﬁrm will be signed, and his services will be retained for $295 per hour. Lastly, the Council discussed amending an ordinance that allows council members to be voting members of boards and commissions. “For us to be involved is important, but to have voting power as well is too much,” Jones said. “I’m not saying it’s a bad thing that it’s happened, but it doesn’t need to occur moving forward. I don’t think it looks good and it’s not a good idea.” Currently, the only council member sitting on another board as a voting member is Kathy Canady, who is on the Parks Board. Canady argued that in the past Mayor Liz Branigan sat on the city coun-

cil and the Parks Board simultaneously. Branigan said she did not want to be used as an example. “This is not a new creation,” Canady said. “We were told best practices would be for us to not vote, but we were also told best practices is having the majority of these boards be city residents, and we threw that one out. So we pick and choose our best practices. I don’t see it as a problem.” Branigan said having a council member on any board as a voting member displaces a city resident from being able to be on the board. Council voted 3-1, with Canady opposed, to remove council members as voting board members. Council also directed city staff to amend the code of ordinances and bylaws for each board to reﬂect this change, and instead make it optional for each board to have a council member serve as a liaison.

academic gaps and skills.” Washburn said over the summer, LHISD has worked closely with teachers on professional development. Kindergarten through third grade teachers went through a statewide reading academy, which provided strategies to teach students reading. In addition, as the district adds new students, the district is pulling data and local assessments to assess where students are so teachers can support those students through the intervention process, Washburn said. “Through a federal grant we now have two interventionists at our two middle schools, and their main role will be to provide additional support and ﬁll those academic gaps,” he said. “We are looking for any and all resources our teachers identify that help to support our students as they grow,” he

said. Washburn added that district staff also feel fortunate to have parents and a community that has been supportive of students and staff during the pandemic. “We are proud of our students and teachers for the resiliency and determination they have shown during the pandemic,” Washburn said. “Despite being faced with ongoing disruptions in the learning process, including quarantines, campus closures and shifts between in-person and remote learning, they were still able to outperform the state in the majority of grade levels and tests. Our focus will continue to be on meeting the academic needs of our students and not test scores. We are looking forward to the upcoming school year and the academic growth of our students.”

annually to measure students’ proﬁciency in mathematics and reading for third through eighth grade, as well as in fourth and seventh grade writing, ﬁfth and eighth grade science, eighth grade social studies, and high school endof-course exams in Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology and U.S. History. Students receive a STAAR performance label of masters grade level, meets grade level, approaches grade level or did not meet grade level. Performance labels of “masters,” “meets” or “approaches” indicate satisfactory achievement on the assessment. Because of the pandemic, STAAR assessments were not administered in 2020, so year-over-year comparisons are unavailable for 2021. “Last time we saw scores was 2019, so we’ve had a couple

years of a gap in data,” Washburn said. “For a good 15 to 18 months we’ve been operating schools in different capacity than we ever have before, dating back to when we went fully remote in March 2020. Overall, we are proud of our students and the efforts our teachers put in to prepare students for this assessment.” According to a June press release from the Texas Education Agency, because of the learning disruptions caused by the pandemic, the number of students across the state not meeting grade level increased from 2019 across all subject areas and grade levels, with English I and English II being the only exceptions. As a subject area, mathematics reﬂects the largest decline in proﬁciency across all grade levels. Districts with a higher percentage of students learning

virtually experienced a greater degree of decline. Districts with the highest percentage of in-person learners largely avoided any learning declines in reading. “Thankfully, from early on, Texas prioritized the availability of in-person instruction during this tremendously difﬁcult year,” said TEA Commissioner Mike Morath in the press release. “When students come into Texas public schools, they are wellserved by Texas educators—a fact that these scores conﬁrm. But it is also painfully clear that the pandemic had a very negative impact on learning. I shudder to consider the longterm impact on children in states that restricted in-person instruction.” Washburn said anytime there are disruptions in a student’s learning path, it causes them

to miss the opportunity to experience the full school year’s curriculum, which can in turn cause test scores to be lower. “If they had lapses or shifted between in-person and remote learning, that makes it difﬁcult,” he said. “We believe the best place for students is in person with their teacher, and we were fortunate enough that our community believed strongly in that, because we had high in-person attendance rates, particularly toward the second semester and beyond.” He added that he believes this school year will give students a great opportunity to grow and improve. “We do look at the STAAR results, but we are also focused on each individual student,” he said. “Our number one focus is looking at individual student academic needs and areas where we need to close

AUTOS FOR SALE

and all individuals or firms that submit proposals and may award one or more contracts to one or more service provider(s). Section 3 Residents and Business Concerns, Minority Business Enterprises, Small Business Enterprises and Women Business Enterprises, and Labor Surplus Area firms are encouraged to submit proposals. The City of Liberty Hill is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity Employer. Servicios de traducción están disponibles por peticion. (8/19)

WALDEN WRECKER SERVICE, 939 N 183, Liberty Hill, Texas 78642, 512-574-3367, 0651983vsf, www.tdlr.texas. gov 2003 Dodge Caravan, white $807.90, 2006 Homemade Trailer $807.90, 2003 Chevrolet C7500 Blue, $807.90 Storage fees accrue daily. If the vehicle is not claimed 30 days after the date this notice is sent gives this vehicle storage facility the right to dispose of the vehicle. Additionally, failure to claim the vehicle is a waiver of all right, title, or interest in the vehicle and personal property and a consent to sell the vehicle at a public sale. (8/12p)

Survey, 111.48 Acres tract and being Williamson County tax parcel R – 602227, known as 350 Omega Road, Liberty Hill, TX 78642. The Board of Adjustment’s jurisdiction extends to and includes the following ﬁnal actions: 1. Appeal of an Administrative Decision 2. Administrative Exception In accordance with Section 211.008, Texas Local Government Code, a public hearing on the application will be conducted by the Board of Adjustment at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Rd 1869, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 5:30 PM. After the public hearing, the Board of Adjustment will take ﬁnal action on this matter. For more information, you may either visit the Development Services Department at 100 Forrest Street, call (512) 778-5449, or send an email to planning@libertyhilltx.gov. By order of the Director of Planning on August 6, 2021. (8/12)

1998 FORD MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE. Red/Black. Text or call Justin (817) 3538483. (8/12p)

SERVICES COMPUTER TUTOR At your place, at your pace, I can help you with your computer, iPhone, iPad, or tablet. Helpful tips and tricks. Reasonable rates. Call Karen, 432553-2468. (9/30p)

PUBLIC NOTICES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS CITY OF LIBERTY HILL The City of Liberty Hill is soliciting proposals to provide administration and/or planning services for programs and/or projects ﬁnanced by the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Please submit your proposal of services and a statement of qualiﬁcations for the proposed services to the following email address: lhale@libertyhilltx.gov. Proposals must be received by the City no later than 2:00 pm on Monday, August 23, 2021 to be considered. The City reserves the right to negotiate with any

MISSING PROPERTY If you believe the police department may have a found item that belongs to you, you can call the Property Division directly at 512-548-5530 or email at ekrause@libertyhilltx.gov. When contacting the Property Division, describe the item(s) you are looking for, in detail, and we will let you know if we have it. If we do, we will make arrangements to get it back to you. (8/26)

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE City of Liberty Hill is accepting bids for the installation of a Type 1 and Type 2 ADA ramp in downtown Liberty Hill. Contact City of Liberty Hill City Hall 512-778-5449 for a site visit and more information. (8/19)

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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Liberty Hill has been asked to review and approve the following application(s), to wit: A request for an administrative appeal/variance from the design parameters set forth in Section 5.3G and Table 5-2 of the Round Rock Transportation Criteria Manual pertaining to the minimum 200 ft distance from a intersecting collector for a Type II Commercial Driveway on the following property: AW0005 – Greenleaf Fisk

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has been asked to review and approve the following application(s), to wit: A request for variance from the 45 square feet maximum of wall signage, as outlined in Chapter 14, section 6.12.05 (B), Table 6-3, of the Uniﬁed Development Code, to allow 63.29 square feet of wall signage in the C-3 (General Commercial/Retail) zoning district on the following property: S9247 – HWY 29 Business Plaza, Block A, Lot 2, 1.045 acre tract and being Williamson County tax parcel R – 605493, known as 12950 WEST STATE HIGHWAY 29, LIBERTY HILL, TX 78642. The Board of Adjustment’s jurisdiction extends to and includes the following ﬁnal acLEGAL NOTICE tions: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN 1. Appeal of an Administrative that the City of Liberty Hill Decision

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2. Administrative Exception In accordance with Section 211.008, Texas Local Government Code, a public hearing on the application will be conducted by the Board of Adjustment at the Liberty Hill Municipal Courthouse, 2801 Ranch Rd 1869, Liberty Hill, TX 78642 on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 at 5:30 PM. After the public hearing, the Board of Adjustment will take ﬁnal action on this matter. For more information, you may either visit the Development Services Department at 100 Forrest Street, call (512) 7785449, or send an email to planning@libertyhilltx.gov. By order of the Director of Planning on August 6, 2021. (8/12)

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Page 10

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

HOMES AROUND THE HILL Forest Creek Hillcrest Forest Creek University Park - Georgetown 2 Homes/Guest House - 4.95 acres Liberty Hill - 76 acres Liberty Hill - 17 acres Hidden Creek Estates Hornsby, J - 4.6 acres Palmera Ridge Coming Soon! Kempner Ranch - 40 acres Florence Highland Lake Estates - Lago Vista Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Durham Park Little Gabriel River Ranch Florence Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Luciano Cabasos Spring Meadows - 2 Homes Cantarra Meadows/Pﬂugerville Stonewall Ranch Purser Estates Anderson Mill West Buttercup Townhomes Near Downtown Liberty Hill Stonewall Ranch Somerset Ranch Llano Jenks Branch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Saratoga Springs Summerlynn - Leander Larkspur Palmera Ridge - Leander San Gabriel River - 3/4 acres Flores Iron Oak - 2 acres

Homes for Sale 4BR/2.5BA 3BR/2BA 4BR/2.5BA 3BR/2BA 4BR/4BA 3BR/2B - Bardo & Shop 3 Homes & Barn 3BR/2BA - Game Room - 1+ acre 4BR/2BA 3BR/2BA 6BR/5BA Acreage/Property for Sale Tract 3A N Hwy 195 No restrictions, Ag exempt 20701 Harrison Cv Electricity & water available TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 72, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 73, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 76, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 92, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 88, Block 1 Phase III 550 Shin Oak Lane Wet weather creek 420 Iva Bell Lane Barn Tract 4B N Hwy 195 No restrictions, Ag exempt Lot 12 Cloudwood Ranch Rd Lots of trees Under Contract / Pending

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TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Yellow Senna Pl TBD Red Yucca Ct TBD Red Yucca Ct 1540 W Hwy 29 440 CR 277 13500 Kearns Dr 145 Granite Path 312 Barrington 1705 Spiderlily 401 Buttercup Creek Blvd 3103 CR 1869 500 Fieldstone 1105 Somerset Meadow 504 E Green St 120 Bryson Bend TBD Lobeila Bloom Bend TBD Lobeila Bloom Bend TBD Lobeila Bloom Bend TBD Lobeila Bloom Bend TBD Yellow Senna Pl 402 Spring Grove 104 Falcon Lane 105 Blue Sage 2201 Bonavista Way 121 River Rd 550 Stadium Dr 232 Oak Hill

Indian Oak Estates Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Ranch at Cypress Creek Boulderwood Park Bertram Cole Drive Estates Liberty Hill Burnet Liberty Hill - 2.2 acres Liberty Hill Purser Estate

875 Indian Oaks Lot 22 Cloudwood Ranch Rd 2003 Autumn Fire 108 Boulderwood Dr 367 Mesquite 601 Cole Dr 2210 CR 282 709 Rhomberg 140 Shin Oak Lane 2190 CR 282 214 Barrington

Lot 70, Block 1 Phase III Lot 77, Block 1 Phase III Lot 78, Block 1 Phase III Lot 81, Block 1 Phase III Lot 82, Block 1 Phase III Lot 84, Block 1 Phase III Lot 90, Block 1 Phase III 2BR/1BA 5BR/3.5BA 4BR/2BA, Game Room 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA 2BR/2.5BA Commercial, Mixed Use 5BR/3BA 4BR/3.5BA 3BR/2BA 4BR/3BA Lot 23, Block 4 Phase III Lot 24, Block 4 Phase III Lot 25, Block 4 Phase III Lot 26, Block 4 Phase III Lot 69, Block 4 Phase III 3BR/2BA 4BR/2.5BA - 2 car garage 3BR/2.5BA 3BR/2BA - 2 car garage 3BR/2BA Cleared & level 4BR/4BA Sold!

3BR/2BA Lots of oaks, backs to creek 3BR/2.5BA 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA 4BR/4.5BA Build to suit home site 3BR/1BA 3BR/2BA + pool Build to suit home site 3BR/2B

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Tammy Wise Tammy Wise 2.17 acres Tammy Wise 2.01 acres Tammy Wise 2.01 acres Tammy Wise 2.01 acres Tammy Wise 2.04 acres Tammy Wise 1180 sq ft Shane T. White 2950 sq ft Shane T. White 2507 sq ft Cheryl Stephens 1577 sq ft Shane T. White 1364 sq ft Shane T. White 1521 sq ft Shane T. White 1280 sq ft Shane T. White 968 sq ft Dax Oglesby 2806 sq ft Kristen Childers/Tammy Wise 2739 sq ft Shane T. White 1671 sq ft Sabrina Jordan 2554 sq ft Shane T. White 2 acres Tammy Wise 2 acres Tammy Wise 2 acres Tammy Wise 2 acres Tammy Wise 2 acres Tammy Wise 1704 sq ft Shane T. White 2044 sq ft Dax Oglesby 2455 sq ft Kristen Childers 1855 sq ft Amy Gandy 1440 sq ft Cheryl Stephens 1.337 acre Side-Pad Shane T. White 2800 sq ft Dax Oglesby

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