LH INDEPENDENT 9-9-21 by The Liberty Hill Independent

, n o s a e s s i h t ! s k r c e u h l t n d a o o P ’ G n i t h Fig GOOD LUCK T H I S S E AS O N, F I G HT I N ’ PA N-

2021

Volume 34, Issue 42

www.LHIndependent.com

Improper surveillance? Cameras, equipment used to secure City buildings, monitor staff

By RACHEL MADISON & SHELLY WILKISON Staff Writers A discussion about the need to hire an IT company for the City of Liberty Hill, which employed a full-time IT director until his resignation Aug. 29, led to the recent public revelation that City ofﬁces and employees may have been under improper surveillance for an unknown period of time. City Administrator Lacie Hale asked Council Aug. 25 to ratify an agreement she made with UniVista, an Austin-based IT company, to provide support to City IT Director Randy Hodges. When asked whether Hodges was still working for the City, Hale said, “There’s not been a clear demonstration of professional behavior from our IT director, so with that, I made the decision to bring UniVista on board because I wanted to secure IT operations for the City of Liberty Hill.” At that time, Hale said that Hodges was still employed by the City and was working alongside UniVista. “Our IT department needs support,” she said in the meeting. “I executed this agreement

to get their services here immediately. This will be a longterm solution for the city. I made the decision; this item is to ratify the decision.” Council member Chris Pezold asked Larry Whelan, president of UniVista, if his company “could do a sweep for bugs and surveillance that were not appropriate or possibly are inappropriate?” Whelan responded that his company does not provide those services. “So we think we have bugs?” asked Council member Kathy Canady. “I’m pretty sure we have bugs, based on what I’ve seen and what I’ve encountered, yes,” Pezold replied. UniVista does not offer surveillance or phone services, but the company does partner with Pﬂugerville-based SCTi. An agreement between SCTi and the City has not been executed. “There are still a few pieces we need to ﬁnd support for, like surveillance and audio-visual support,” Hale said. “They are not supported

See SURVEILLANCE, Page 4

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September 9, 2021 | 50 Cents

Council gives green light to downtown roundabout, again

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer The City Council voted Sept. 1 to move forward with plans to construct a roundabout on Loop 332 and CR 279, directly in front of Wetzel Park and the Water Tower parking lot. Plans to construct a roundabout in this location aren’t new—past city councils have voted to construct a roundabout here and later voted to cancel the same project due to its low priority—but current council says it is needed more than ever due to the ever-increasing traffic in the area. Mike O’Neal, of the City’s engineering firm Steger Bizzell, provided two options for what the future of that intersection could be. In addition to the roundabout, he also showed council what a “tee intersection” would look like. While the “tee intersection” option was more affordable, coming in at an estimated $895,704, compared to a cost estimate of $1.75 mil- This rendering shows what the roadway in front of Wetzel Park will look like in the near future. lion for the roundabout, The City Council voted earlier this month to move forward with the construction of a roundabout Council agreed it didn’t at Loop 332 and CR 279 to improve traffic flow in the area. (Courtesy Graphic) seem like a long-term solu- the difficulties a standard in- downtown Liberty Hill’s onetion, especially because of tersection would cause with way streets, such as Monroe. See COUNCIL, Page 9

About 1,000 LHISD students learning from home this week

By CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT Staff Writer District ofﬁcials say about 1,000 of the 6,800 students enrolled in Liberty Hill schools are currently learning through remote conferencing. Most are from Liberty Hill Middle School, as the campus was closed due to a surge in COVID cases. On Wednesday, Liberty Hill ISD Superintendent Steve Snell said three more classrooms transitioned this week into remote conferencing from Bill Burden Elementary, Louine Noble Elementary, and Rancho Sienna Elementary. District protocol calls for remote conferencing to be im-

plemented when 10 percent of a classroom in the higher grade levels test positive or when four positive cases are found in elementary classrooms. “Remote conferencing has been going well,” Snell said. “Obviously, it’s not as good as in-person learning, but the teachers have adjusted. We’re doing everything we can to not have the students’ learning interrupted. Hopefully, with the holiday weekend and the students that we have quarantined, we can see a break in the COVID spike.” According to the district’s website, which tracks cases in the schools, there were 453

See COVID, Page 3

CHRISTIAN BETANCOURT PHOTO

Oatmeal Festival delights visitors

The 44th Annual Oatmeal Festival entertained thousands of visitors last Saturday in Bertram who enjoyed a parade, a pet parade, a fun run, concerts, baking competition, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and more. Oatmeal Pageant participants were in the parade, including Miss Oatmeal Princess Helena Hawthorne (center), Miss Itsy Bitsy Oatmeal Lydia Hamilton (left). Also on the ﬂoat were Miss Oatmeal Queen Abby Smith, Miss Oatmeal Cookie Heidi Meredith, Miss Oatmeal Mufﬁn Gracie Robison, and Miss Little Bit of Oatmeal Heidi Meredith. For more festival coverage, visit www.LHIndependent.com.

Water restrictions to continue into fall; LUEs dwindling

By RACHEL MADISON Staff Writer The City of Liberty Hill’s water woes might get worse before they get better, due to a shrinking supply of water coming from the City of Leander. According to a statement released by the City of Liberty Hill, a breaker at the Leander treatment plant malfunctioned on July 28, causing a depletion in the water tanks. Although the equipment was repaired, water demand due to seasonal irrigation kept the tanks from fully reﬁlling. That’s when the City of Liberty Hill moved to Stage 2 restrictions. Later, on Aug. 23, Leander asked Liberty Hill to reduce its daily ﬂow rate from 300 to ©2021 The Liberty Hill Independent

500 gallons per minute down to 200 gallons per minute, to reduce the rate of water drawn from Leander’s elevated storage tank. That ﬂow reduction helped Leander to replenish its daily supply and maintain ample pressure for all the customers served from that tank, according to the statement. Liberty Hill is anticipated to remain in Stage 2 until at least November, but things can change quickly, said Public Works Manager Jay Holmes. “Leander has us cut down to 200 gallons a minute,” he said. “[On Sept. 1,] we started the clock to move into Stage 3, which means no outdoor watering, period. We are over 90 percent production versus use.” In Stage 2, outside watering using landscape irrigation systems, automatic sprinkler systems, and hose-end sprinklers is prohibited. Customers are

allowed to use hand-held hoses, a bucket or watering can of ﬁve gallons or less, or drip irrigation system, only during designated days between 8 p.m. and 10 a.m. Customers with a street address ending in an even number may water on Mondays, while those with a street address ending in an odd number may water on Thursdays. In Stage 3, all water use is prohibited except for a livestock or other exemption or variance. It’s not just current water customers that could be affected by this shortage. Council member Chris Pezold told The Independent Wednesday what he previously presented to the Economic Development Corp. on Aug. 18 that he learned about one month after he joined the council that city staff and engineers realized that former Mayor Rick Hall had not secured a contract

with Leander for an additional 600-acre feet on Lake Travis, which the two cities had agreed upon while he was in ofﬁce. However, because Hall did not secure the contract, Liberty Hill never received that water, which comes in at about 1,500 Living Unit Equivalents (LUEs). Hall did not respond by press time to a request from The Independent for an interview. “Rick didn’t close the deal with Leander, so he put everybody into a state of not having enough water,” Pezold said. “We’ve got giant developments at our door wanting to come in. We need to get this taken care of quickly. The prior administration and council did not look to the future, and they did not make the decisions necessary to go after the resources we need. Right now we’re uncovering their neglect.”

Each home built is the equivalent of one LUE at 200 gallons per day, and after discovering there are less than 500 LUEs left for the area that the City provides water to, Pezold is concerned that developments will be negatively impacted. “We’ve got to be a good neighbor with builders,” he said. “There may be some serious conversations that come up, because if you look where we are at right now, we have less than 500 LUEs available to our entire area we supply water to. If you subtract out the number of LUEs that have been requested by projects but haven’t purchased yet, that takes us down to under 200 LUEs that are available. That’s frightening.” Pezold attributed the information to City Administrator Lacie Hale and City Engineer Curtis Steger, whose calculations were based on standards

set by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regarding the amount of water that can be provided. “That’s where I came up with this number we are so deficient on,” Pezold said. “This is all a result of former administration not doing the proper planning and taking proper courses of action to close contracts.” At the most recent City Council meeting Sept. 1, officials discussed what steps could be taken to prevent the City from moving into Stage 3 water restrictions. “What do we need to do as a council to get with Leander and figure out why they are receiving more water than us?” asked Council member Angela Jones. “Why do we have to move into Stage 3 if [Leander] isn’t suffering the same amount as

See WATER, Page 3

Page 2

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OBITUARY Russell James Schrowang Russell James Schrowang went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 18th, 2021 in Dallas, Texas following surgery. He was sixty-seven. Russ was born in Spring Valley, Illinois on November 5th, 1953 to Elmer Henry and Mary Elizabeth Schrowang (nee Freebern). He graduated from Tonica High School and continued his job at J & L Steel. Russ married Sue Johnson on May 19th, 1979. They moved to Texas shortly thereafter. Russ, Sue and their family lived in Cedar Park, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, and Sulphur Springs. Russ worked for Pedernales Electric and trucking and logistics companies including Lykes Cartage and most recently Team Worldwide. He had been actively involved in church, the homeschool community, and the Republican Party.

Russ is survived by his wife of 42 years, Sue; children, Eric Shirey (Elizabeth), Jeremy (Rebecca), Heidi, Jesse (Brooke), Jonah (Joyce), and Levi; grandchildren Everett, Ephraim, Eliana, Justin, Caitlyn, Russell, Kolin, Izabelle, Malachi, Micah, Amelia, Emmaline, and Matthias; great-grandson, Bentley; brother Michael; sisters Ginny Taylor and Cindy Wagner. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister Christine Znaniecki, and parents-in-law Everett Cornelius and Gladys May Johnson (nee Morris). Russ was a devoted Christian who loved his family deeply, told great jokes with an infectious laugh, and barbecued the best brisket! Family gathered for a graveside service at Liberty Hill Cemetery on August 26th, 2021 ofﬁciated by Pastor Larry Loden, Grace Community Fel-

lowship, Georgetown, Texas. Donations can be made to Texas Alliance for Life or Answers in Genesis. And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28 https://www.ramseyfuneral. com/obituary/russell-schrowang

Shin Oak Ridge Bulletin Board Send news to: News@LHIndependent.com

Judge Greenleaf Fisk Chapter meets Sept. 11

The Judge Greenleaf Fisk Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas will

hold its ﬁrst meeting of the year in the Chapel of the Cross Tracks Methodist Church at 101 Church Street in Liberty Hill at 10 a.m. on Saturday,

Sept. 11. The program will be about “What and Where are the Currently Owned DRT Properties?”

Liberty Hill Police Blotter Prepared by Liberty Hill Police Department

Liberty Hill Spring

For citizens who reside within Liberty Hill City Limits

Curbside Pickup 8AM to 3:30PM on

Wednesday-Sept. 22, Thursday-Sept. 23 and Friday-Sept. 24 for those who are unable to transport discarded items on the drop-off day of Saturday-Sept. 25. Pick-Up piles at curb should be no larger than 10’ x 10’. The City crew is unable to go onto residential property -

PLEASE LEAVE AT CURB.

How to Schedule CURBSIDE PICKUP

(MUST BE SCHEDULED PRIOR TO SEPT. 22) • Call City Hall at 512.778.5449 and provide your name, phone number, address, and email • Place items for pickup near the curb and mark “City Pick Up” • Small items must be in boxes or trash bags • No items will be picked up on Saturday; any items left at your curb on Saturday must be brought to the Drop Off location at 2801 RR 1869 (Municipal Court parking area) on Saturday – Sept. 25th

DROPOFF SATURDAY Drop off is available from 8:00 AM until dumpsters are full or 2:00 PM, whichever comes first, on Saturday-Sept. 25th at 2801 RR 1869 (Municipal Court parking area). What to bring to DROP OFF LOCATION:

Water or Wastewater Bill and your identification (Driver’s License, etc.) for proof of residency

The following items will NOT be accepted:

Tires • Paint • Paint Thinner· TV’s • Batteries • CFL Light bulbs Computers • Printers • Refrigerators • Freezers • All Appliances Any Hazardous Materials or Substances including Oil

Week of Aug. 30- Sept. 5 The Liberty Hill Police Department responded to or self-initiated a total of 670 incidents resulting in 10 cases, 124 citations, 112 warnings and three arrests. Weekly Highlights: - On Aug. 30 at approximately 7:57 AM, officers responded to the 15000 block of W. SH 29 for an alarm call. - On Aug. 30 at approximately 8:48 AM, officers responded to Revolution Drive for a theft complaint. - On Aug. 30 at approximately 4:30 PM, officers responded to River View Rd for a lost person. - On Aug. 30 at approximately 9:02 PM, officers responded to CR 200 for a suspicious vehicle. - On Aug. 30 at approximately 9:26 PM, officers responded to Revolution Drive for a suspicious vehicle. - On Aug. 31 at approximately 6:46 AM, officers responded to the 11000 block of W SH 29 for a 911 hang up call. - On Aug. 31 at approximately 9:04 AM, officers responded to the 14000 block of W SH 29 for a pursuit, resulted in warning. - On Aug. 31 at approximately 11:29 AM, officers responded to Trellis Blvd. for a criminal mischief complaint. - On Aug. 31 at approximately 12:50 PM, officers responded to the 22000 block of Ronald Reagan to assist Austin Police and Williamson County Sher-

iff’s Office seeking robbery suspects. - On Aug. 31 at approximately 4:33 PM, officers responded to the 2000 block of RM 1869 for a burglary complaint. - On Aug. 31 at approximately 6:56 PM, officer arrested a male adult for evading arrest as the result of a traffic stop. - On Aug. 31 at approximately 10:15 PM, officers responded to 16000 block of W. SH 29 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Sept. 1 at approximately 8:54 AM, officers responded to Church Street for a wildlife complaint. - On Sept. 1 at approximately 11:52 AM, officers responded to Pioneering Loop for suspicious activity. - On Sept. 1 at approximately 4:17 PM, officers responded to the 16000 block of W. SH 29 to assist the Liberty Hill ISD Police Department. - On Sept. 1 at approximately 5:50 PM, officers responded to the 14000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident. - On Sept. 1 at approximately 6:52 PM, officers responded to Beebrush Court to assist the Liberty Hill Fire/ EMS. - On Sept. 1 at approximately 10:40 PM, officers responded to the 4000 block of US 183 to assist the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. - On Sept. 2 at approximately 1:25 AM, officers responded to the 600 block US 183 for an accident. - On Sept. 2 at approximately

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11:38 AM, officers responded to the 13000 block of W. SH 29 for a disturbance. - On Sept. 2 at approximately 5:01 PM, officers responded to the 100 block of US 183 for a harassment complaint. - On Sept. 2 at approximately 9:16 PM, officers responded to Independence Ave for a suspicious incident. - On Sept. 2 at approximately 11:20 PM, officers responded to the 12000 block of W. SH 29 for a theft in progress, resulting in the arrest for a male adult for resisting arrest and public intoxication. - On Sept. 3 at approximately 6:33 AM, officers responded to the 15000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident. - On Sept. 3 at approximately 7:37 AM, officers responded to the 12000 block of W. SH 29 for an accident. - On Sept. 3 at approximately 3:47 PM, officers responded to the 11000 block of W SH 29 for an accident. - On Sept. 3 at approximately 5:23 PM, officers responded to the 12000 block of W. SH 29 for a warrant arrest of a male juvenile. - On Sept. 4 at approximately 3:57 AM, officers responded to the 100 block of US 183 for a welfare concern resulting in a possession of drug paraphernalia citation. - On Sept. 4 at approximately 12:51 PM, officers responded to the 10000 block of W SH 29 for a traffic hazard.

2021

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Thursday, September 9, 2021

COVID

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Continued from Page 1

student cases reported and 76 from staff as of noon Wednesday. Of the total reported, 279 student cases are currently active, and 32 staff with 174 students recovered and 44 staff. “We’re seeing some students with ﬂu-like symptoms,” said Snell. “We’re seeing some students with fever, but for the most part, we’re seeing students that are congested and don’t feel 100 percent. Our worry is with some of our adults that it hits some harder than the students. We’re in the process of tightening up our procedures. We’re still encouraging mask-wearing.” Snell said the district continues to monitor cases of students learning from home. “If they’re at home and they get sick, the parents let us know as well. The community has been really good and really supportive of reporting cases to us. And that helps a great deal as well.” Santa Rita Middle School has shown relatively low numbers of cases, especially when compared to its counterpart LHMS. “Santa Rita Middle is a little bit smaller right now,” said Snell. “They have about 750 students. I’m not sure why there’s a discrepancy in numbers between the two. It might be the less students. We’re doing the same cleaning protocols at every campus, encouraging the same behaviors at every campus.” Mask-wearing continues to be optional at LHISD. However, Snell said he encourages the community to utilize all protections available to them. “We’ve seen a slight increase in mask wearing at this point,” he said. “We’re still encouraging it. It’s just another layer of protection against this virus. Social distancing, washing your hands, cleaning, vaccines, they’re all layers of protection. The more layers we have, the better.” The community’s use of all protections available will help keep schools open, Snell said. “I think our community has an overwhelming desire to keep schools open,” he said. “They want to do what they can to keep our staff healthy. They’ve been very good at communicating when a child’s out. They’ve been communicating when they’ve been in close contact, and they think it’s best to stay home and quarantine. If you need to keep your child home because either they’re sick or they’ve been in close contact, we deﬁnitely support that. We’ll get them their assignments. And they don’t need to

worry about those absences while they’re helping to keep everyone safe.” Snell said absences due to COVID are not penalized and marked as Q in attendance reports. “So, if you marked with the Q, we know you’re quarantining,” he said. “Either we’ve sent you home like we’ve closed the classroom, or you’ve been in close contact, and you’ve let us know. We mark those absences as a Q, and that just lets us know you’re staying safe staying home. We don’t penalize those absences.” Schools around Texas are waiting for Governor Greg Abbott to sign Senate Bill 15, which, if approved, would provide funding for schools to offer virtual learning to some throughout the school year. Currently, students in LHISD wishing to learn from home had to drop out of the district to do so. “We are planning a virtual option once the state funds it,” Snell said. “The state will fund up to 10 percent of your student population. We sent a survey out. We’re still gathering the results of that survey to see if there’s interest. And if there’s interest, we will offer it. We’ll just have to wait to hear from the state on what the parameters of that are, and we’ll get that up and running as soon as we can.” Snell said he always wears a mask during his campus visits, where he has seen students

Page 3

EMPLOYMENT learning and trying to have a normal school year. “I’m on campuses every single day,” he said. “The teachers are doing just a great job educating our students. The students are happy — lots of energy, lots of positive energy. The kids are glad to be back in school. The teachers are glad to have them back in school. The hope for the school year is that we have a consistent school year with very few interruptions. Students have missed a lot of time over the last two years, and we want them to be in school, be safe, and have a consistent school year.” Snell said the community can keep COVID-19 out of the schools by self-monitoring and knowing when to quarantine. “The number one thing is just monitoring your student,” he said. “If they don’t feel well, please keep them home. A lot of times, they show mild symptoms, and people don’t think they’re very sick, so they send them to school. But they can certainly spread that if they come to school. So, we’re just encouraging families again to keep their kids home and our staff to stay home if they don’t feel well.” Free COVID-19 testing is available to the public in the parking lot at Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant, 10280 W. State Hwy 29. The test site is open Monday- Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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PUBLIC NOTICES 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. (9/30)

Continued from Page 1

us?” asked Council member Kathy Canady. Hale said Liberty Hill’s Stage 2 is equivalent to Leander’s Stage 1, which is why Leander isn’t being affected like Liberty Hill. Hale added that Liberty Hill moved into Stage 2 because the parameters were met according to the City’s Drought Contingency and Emergency Water Demand Management Plan, and that in the future, council could change those parameters. Hale added she is working with the City’s legal team to

review the water use contract with the City of Leander to see if any action can be taken. In the meantime, two shortterm projects have been initiated to try to move the City out of Stage 2, including a change to the San Gabriel Parkway water line, which will involve the construction of a 24-inch water line along San Gabriel Parkway from CR 270 to Ronald Reagan Boulevard. This project will allow water to move from east to west through Leander’s distribution system.

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The second project is the Bagdad-Brushy Creek Regional Utility Authority (BCRUA) interconnect water line, which will involve the construction of a 24-inch water line from New Hope Road to Kettering Drive along a public utility easement east of Bagdad Road. This water line will allow for the north and southwest areas of Leander to receive water from the BCRUA water treatment plant. When it comes to long-term remedies for the City’s water

See LUEs, Page 9

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Surveillance by UniVista.” Hale added that she has a vendor for surveillance, but she still needs to execute that agreement, and that she’s looking for the right vendor audio-visual support. Council member Tony DeYoung then asked, “How is the safety and security of our networks in the IT department?” Whelan said Hodges had been out of the office due to illness for nearly a week, and because of that did not have all the information needed to get into the entire network, but based on what he had seen, several desktop computers at City Hall needed to be secured better. He said not all the computers on the City’s network are joined to the right domain, meaning that “some machines basically can do whatever they want.” “One of the things we need to do is get everything on the [City’s] domain so we can apply security rules across the board,” he added. During a previous discussion regarding whether city council should play a role in the hiring process for all City employees, Council member Angela Jones said, “The behavior of some of the staff we have right now is unprofessional, it’s not right and it’s concerning. Some of the things I’ve found out are so concerning to me and made me sick to my stomach.” “We have employees that behave like adolescents in the workplace,” she later added. “I cannot believe some of the stories I’ve heard.” Jones asked if Whelan had found anything the Council should be alarmed about. He said not yet, but that he was still waiting on a few more passwords from Hodges so his team could finish their assessment, particularly in the police and public works departments. The Council ultimately ratified Hale’s execution of the contract, but not without leaving several unanswered questions for the public regarding improper surveillance of City employees and the nature of Hodges’ questionable behavior. While Hale told The Independent on Sept. 3 that Hodges had resigned, after the Council meeting on Aug. 25 she said Hodges needed more support. “We are growing and wanted an opportunity to support Randy being that he is the only IT employee for the City. We also wanted to create an additional layer of redundancy being that he is the only IT employee,” she said. “Myself and others have felt that because of things that have been said and what we’ve seen, we feel that there were things bugged under Rick Hall,” Pezold told the Council Aug. 25. “That’s my belief. I’m not sure until we get a sweep, but there have been a few coincidences that I don’t see a way of looking at it without thinking there are some listening devices in [City Hall].” Jones said she personally hasn’t had any current or former staff come to her and say they felt they were being watched or listened to. “I do not know if that’s true,” she said. “I don’t have strong evidence that it is true. But we will be doing an audit of our technology, sound system and cameras, and finding out what we do and don’t have. Right now we don’t fully know.” She added that the current city council also doesn’t know exactly what types of security equipment, like cameras, have been installed at City Hall. “We will find out what equipment has been installed,” she said. “I have not seen a document that has the full extent of all the devices and cameras that are installed in our facilities, and we need to know that.” When asked by The Independent if City Hall offices were equipped with listening devices, Hale said, “no comment.” She also did not respond to followup questions regarding claims by previous employees of her knowledge or involvement. Former employees, who were terminated by former Mayor Rick Hall in 2020, told The Independent that they observed Hodges installing surveillance equipment throughout City Hall, and employees at that time suspected that they were being observed. However, they say the Council never

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Continued from Page 1

approved the purchase of the equipment. Records obtained by the newspaper in April through an Open Records Request submitted more than a year earlier — Feb. 19, 2020 — showed more than $50,000 was spent on indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras and equipment, locks and key cards, alarms and monitoring. The newspaper filed a complaint with the Texas Attorney General’s Office after the City’s failure to respond to the open records request during the allowable time by law. The City then requested an exception to keep from providing the documents, but when the Attorney General’s Office directed the City to provide an explanation as to why the exception should be granted, there was no response from the City, which in turn resulted in an order from the AG to provide the information to the newspaper. That order was ignored until April — five months after Hall’s defeat in the November election. “There were some laws that were implemented for municipalities about having an IT person to train everyone about security and that was Randy [Hodges’] place,” said former City Secretary Barbara Zwernemann. “[Hall] enlisted Randy to check pricing without ever giving anything to City Council. I think [Hall] told [former] mayor pro tem Liz Rundzeiher but didn’t present it to City Council or vote beforehand. All [former finance director] Becky [Wilkins] would say is ‘it’s in the budget’ when somebody would say, ‘Isn’t this costing a lot of money and where is this money coming from?’” Sally McFeron, former Director of Planning, said Hall, with help from Wilkins, was “constantly nickel and diming things,” which is how she believed he kept much of the surveillance equipment purchases from needing City Council approval. “It was never a total bid for something so that he didn’t have to go to City Council,” she said. “They kept things right underneath the minimums, so he just kept rolling.” Zwernemann, said in late 2019 through early 2020, Hall started talking about the need for security at City Hall. She said Hall briefly announced at a council meeting, that security equipment had been purchased. She recalled employees joking about “who or what he was afraid of.” When the equipment arrived, it was all turned over to Hodges for installation, she said, adding that Hall told her surveillance equipment was being installed in every city building and that he, Hodges, and former Emergency Management Coordinator Casey Cobb would be the only people with the capability to surveil buildings at any time and from any location. Zwernemann said that ultimately, the surveillance equipment was placed on Hale’s computer as well. “The surveillance app was put on their computers and mobile phones,” she said, referring to Hodges and Hall. Zwernemann remembered one morning at City Hall as employees were arriving for work, Hall and Hodges were standing at Hodges’ computer laughing about the employees coming into the building, who didn’t know they were being observed. Another time, Zwernemann heard Hodges tell a small group of employees, “I can watch y’all from my house,” she said. “He thought it was funny. I remember because it sounded creepy at the time.” She said Hall used his computer to view staff at different locations during work hours. Zwernemann said she knows this because he mentioned it to her at least once that he was watching the police department while they were working. On another occasion, Hall was watching former Chief Maverick Campbell’s office while Campbell’s wife and two of the children were visiting, and made a comment to Zwernemann that “they had been there all day”. In January, The Independent was provided with a screenshot of a photo of one of its reporters taken during a council meeting in August 2020. The photo was taken from a camera positioned directly above

the reporter’s assigned seat in what appeared to be an attempt to monitor him during the public meetings. At the time, the City’s attorney confirmed that Hodges had been directed by Hall to point the camera to the reporter. Zwernemann said she never had proof, but there were other employees who also felt audio capabilities were installed in City Hall in addition to cameras. They felt like Hall would listen in on their conversations. Sally McFeron, former Director of Planning who was terminated in July 2020, said Hale was aware of the surveillance equipment, and the purchases were never taken to Council for approval. “She (Hale) definitely knew and definitely did it, and they never took it to City Council for any type of approval,” McFeron said. “Rick Hall could also access the cameras on his phone. I remember telling him that was pretty creepy.” At that time, there were many things going on for McFeron personally that she never understood how other city employees found out about. “It could have been the conference rooms were bugged,” she said. McFeron said the Employee Handbook was changed just before she was fired, but before that, the Handbook did not contain language stating employees would be observed. “There was never an announcement to the staff that they could be observed,” she said. “It was just changing the handbook and handing it back out again. You would have to be paying attention. You’d have to read it. And if you were paying attention, you got fired.” McFeron and Zwernemann said the extensive security equipment added to the second floor at City Hall was a way to restrict access to only those Hall wanted to see. Even the lobby elevator to the second floor could only be accessed with an employee code. “It was his way of restricting entrance to areas of City Hall and it made employees curious as to what all this really meant,” said Zwernemann, who added that the restrictions were put in place prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and she was not aware of any particular incident or breach that created the need for the lockdown. Zwernemann was eventually moved from the second floor to the first. “The bad part of it was it really closed City Hall to the public and the employees that he (Hall) didn’t want,” McFeron said, adding that Canady and Rundzieher spent a great deal of time with Hall on the second floor, which was inaccessible to most. Jones, who was elected in May, said the current council is working to bring more transparency to city government. “The council we have right now is being really transparent with our citizens about the stuff we are finding,” Jones said. “Some of it is things I can’t talk about right now, and some of it has been brought out thus far. Moving forward I really desire to bring in leadership to create a culture in the city that is healthy for staff and citizens. This council right now is willing to look and ask questions to find out what those issues are so we can get into a situation where the City is healthy.” Calls and messages to Mayor Liz Branigan were not returned. Hale did not respond to follow-up questions regarding surveillance and listening devices in City Hall. The Independent contacted Hall, who refused to be interviewed by phone but agreed to respond to questions by email. The newspaper’s questions were sent by email on Aug. 30, but Hall did not respond. At press time, it was not known whether the surveillance equipment remains active and monitored. For more on this story, including documents provided by the City to The Independent, go to https://lhindependent.com/ are-city-buildings-under-improper-surveillance/

SPORTS

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT Thursday, September 9, 2021 Page 5

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Hollis Brady – pictured here at the Lineman Challenge in Abilene this summer – was plugged into the Panthers’ defensive line last week and produced a pair of sacks, along with seven tackles and a forced fumble.

Panthers lineman traded sides of ball in victory

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor When Hollis Brady was on the field at Panther Stadium last week warming up for Liberty Hill’s game against visiting Del Valle, he was expecting to line up at the same strong end spot on the offen-

sive line he had occupied a week earlier in the opener. However, it wasn’t meant to be. “(Liberty Hill head) Coach (Kent) Walker came up to me and told me I was going to play defense instead,” said Brady. “At first, I was speech-

less, but then I just came out and focused on what I had to do.” What Brady did was have perhaps the finest game of his Panthers career in registering seven tackles, two sacks and

See LINEMAN, Page 6

Sophomore Kealy Dirner (#2) has responded well to being thrust into the Lady Panthers’ starting lineup much earlier than expected.

Sophomore hitter thrust into starting role

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Coming off a successful season with a Liberty Hill freshman volleyball squad, which posted an undefeated record, Kealy Dirner was intent on improving her individual game over the summer in order to give herself the best chance possible to make the jump to varsity for her sophomore

year. However, in order to make the jump, she had to make her jump higher. “I’m not big for a hitter,” said the 5-foot-8 Dirner. “So I knew I needed to make my vertical better.” Which is exactly what she did and along with the other skills she already had, indeed made the leap to the varsity for this

season – although it was still a surprise to her, she said. “I didn’t expect to make varsity – especially as an outside hitter,” said Dirner. “But, I was really happy because I worked hard all summer.” Head coach Gretchen Peterson said Dirner definitely has what it takes to make an

himself to perform.” According to Rhoden, when an athlete from another sport decides to cross over to the tennis court, square one is the best place to start – and despite Allaire’s rapid rise, she still needed to begin with the basics. “First, you need to learn how to hold a racket properly,” said Rhoden. “After that, you need to be able to swing low to high and get under the ball, so you don’t hit it into the net and you also need to turn your body to the net one way or the other to get power behind your shot.” Speaking of power, Allaire prides himself on a powerful serve – although initially, he needed to rein in that part of his game a bit before moving forward once again, she said. “Josh realized it didn’t matter how hard he hit the ball if he wasn’t able to keep it in,” said Rhoden. “He’s had to slow his

serve down a little, but he’s so tall, he can really get over the ball.” Hastening his progression in his newfound pursuit was additional instruction Allaire sought out away from the Panthers’ tennis program. “Josh and a lot of his teammates took private lessons at Cimmaron Country Club over the summer,” said Rhoden. “At some point, it all clicked for him.” Allaire plays both singles and doubles, but definitely has a preference – even though he believes the opposite provides him a better chance of success, he said. “I like singles more because I feel like I have more control over the entire court,” said Allaire. “But, I’m better at doubles because my serve works better.”

See DIRNER, Page 8

Allaire finding solace on a different court

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Josh Allaire always pictured himself playing on a Panthers court. However, it was one of a different variety than the surface the Liberty Hill junior now finds himself on. After being brought up on a basketball court for much of his youth, Allaire has traded the shiny hardwood for the concrete purple surfaces of the tennis complex. The reason for the switch was quite simple, he said. “I found out over the summer I wasn’t going to get much playing time,”said Allaire, who began playing tennis during last year’s spring season. “I felt like with tennis, I would get more of an opportunity.” Tennis might prove a bit safer for Allaire, as he suffered a pair of broken arms – one each in basketball and football – which

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Josh Allaire switched courts from basketball to tennis and hasn’t looked back in his newfound pursuit. made the decision to switch sports a bit easier and after playing on the JV squad last year, has already made it onto

the varsity team. Head coach Sherry Rhoden said Allaire has already come a long way in a short amount

of time. “Josh is super-driven and super-competitive,” she said. “He puts a lot of pressure on

See ALLAIRE, Page 8

Running in packs pays off for Panthers

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor There’s an old saying. “The strength of the wolf is in the pack.” Or in some cases, the Panther. Just ask Liberty Hill’s cross country team, which has perfected the art of hunting winnings times together this season. “Our team has to stay together,” said senior Emma Hiebner. “Because it’s much easier to deal with the mental struggle we go through during a race if you’re not alone because we can push each other.” According to Hiebner, running in a pack requires those involved to constantly communicate – even if it’s nonverbal. “We encourage each other to keep up,” said Hiebner. “One person will go out and push the pace for a while, then we’ll switch off.” However, this mentality is ingrained not during competition, but during the long, grueling, seemingly endless hours the Panthers put in on the training trails, said head coach Kim Holt. “During practice, we’ll divide them up in groups of five based on their times,” she said. “Every week we adjust the groups

based on the times from the previous race.” In addition, the training groups are co-ed, which is a result of the fact the girls now compete at a 5-kilometer distance at the Class 5A level, as oppose to only 3-kilometer courses in Class 4A – which makes practice even more competitive, said Holt. “It’s easier now because everyone runs a 5K,” she said. “So, we can have our faster girls run with the boys, as opposed to not having good partners to push them in training.” At the moment, the methods seem to be working just fine, as both the Panthers girls’ and boys’ squads have been consistently near or at the top of the team standings though the first three races of the season. In fact, at the Pro-Fit Invitational in Temple last week, both Liberty Hill teams were victorious on the day, as they get ready for their home meet this week. Currently, freshman Avery Frank is leading the girls’ squad, while junior Ryan McCarn is on top of the mountain for the boys – but that can change at any time, said junior Brandon Escobar. “Right now, we’re all running

ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Liberty Hill’s cross country squad will often run together in packs during races to improve results in the team standings. very close,” he said. “Ryan’s first, so we’re trying to catch him.” Escobar moved to Liberty Hill this year after competing at Rouse for his first two years of high school and immediately noticed the difference between his old program compared to his new one, he said. “Liberty Hill is a lot more into cross country,” said Escobar. “Right now, they only have three boys on the varsity at Rouse. I think a lot of kids

there quit if they think the team isn’t going to do well.” No such issues in his new home, though, as there is a distinctly different culture regarding the Panthers’ athletic program. “Here, everybody is encouraged to participate in sports,” he said. “At Rouse, most of the kids just show up for school and that’s it.” Now, Escobar need not worry about ever finding himself alone on the trails during a

race. “I like running in a pack because it pushes you,” said Escobar. “We all push together even though cross country is an individual sport – it feels good to finish together.” However, somebody still needs to cross the finish line first, in which case it’s usually a free-for-all – or at least most of the time, said Hiebner. “One race this season, (freshman) Ella Egizio told me if we were running together, she

would let me go ahead because I’m a senior,” she said. “But, I told her to go and push me to keep up.” Once she and her teammates reach the starting line, there’s a particular pecking order as far as how the Panthers plan to break at the beginning of the race, said Hiebner. “Usually, we’ll have our top five runners in a group and the other five in another,” she said,

See RUNNING, Page 8

Page 6

THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Panthers hit the road to face Eagles First away contest is in Georgetown

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Seems as if Liberty Hill’s non-district football was designed to increase the degree of difficulty each week in the month leading up to the district schedule. Following an opening-week encounter with Ellison, the Panthers took on another Class 6A school in Del Valle and this week, the Purple-and-Gold will make the short trip to Georgetown to face the Eagles in their first road contest of the season. Like Liberty Hill, Georgetown has also split its opening two games of the season – both also against Class 6A competition – in losing the opener at home to Belton, 35-31, before rebounding with a 62-39 away win against Copperas Cove. Offense doesn’t seem to be an issue for the Eagles, as they’ve already scored 93 points combined in the first two weeks of the season – in large part to the array of weapons Georgetown head coach Chuck Griffin has at his disposal. Perhaps the most formidable foe the Panthers will find themselves against is Eagles senior quarterback Darson Herman, a 6-foot-4, 220-pound signal-caller who is as much of a threat with his legs as with his arm, said Liberty Hill head coach Kent Walker.

LINEMAN

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Panthers backup quarterback Joe Pitchford (#6) ably stepped in at running back in last week’s 62-6 home victory over Del Valle. “He’s a great dual-threat quarterback with a lot of weapons,” said Walker. “They like to throw a lot of numbers around to get a favorable matchup on one side of the ﬁeld or the other.” Although the Panthers can’t quite match the Eagles’ offensive ﬁrepower – at least, not on paper – they are coming off a 62-6 home victory over Del Valle, as they rushed for 318 yards and seven touchdowns, led by sophomore Noah Long,

Continued from Page 5

forcing a fumble from his newfound defensive end position in Liberty Hill’s 62-6 victory. Or was it new? “Not really, I’m pretty conditioned to do both,” said Brady, a 6-foot, 175-pound senior. “So, I’ve had plenty of practice.” Walker said he wasn’t surprised by Brady’s performance. “Playing defense is more

of who Hollis is,” he said. “I think he likes to play defense and just be able to react – which is a little different than the offensive side of the ball.” Brady agreed. “Defense is deﬁnitely what I prefer,” he said. “I really enjoy going out there and making tackles and getting big hits.” Speaking of big hits, Brady had one on Opening Night before the ball was even kicked off, as he inadvertently

who carried 22 times for 151 yards and ﬁve scores. The Panthers’ offensive showcase was more akin to the numbers they usually produce after only managing a single touchdown in the season-opening defeat to Ellison, but the Purple-and-Gold defense has been on point in both contests, only allowing 12 points combined so far this season. Senior Hollis Brady had a breakthrough performance

after subbing for starter Gannon Mixson at defensive end in compiling seven tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble, while senior linebacker Andon Thomas continues to lead the Panthers defense with 18 tackles through two games, followed closely by Reid Bynum (13), Drake Torno (12) and Carlton Schrank (11). Georgetown’s defense is similar to his own, said Walker. “Defensively, they’re a lot like us,” he said. “They know

how to play the game the right way and that’s hard – they’re a well-coached team.” After more-than-ably ﬁlling in for starter Gavin Salinas – who will still be missing from the lineup this week – sophomore Joe Pitchford will once again line up in the Liberty Hill backﬁeld alongside Long and Logan Dyer. Pitchford’s strong shift last week didn’t surprise Walker – despite his unfamiliarity with the position.

knocked a Panthers cheerleader to the ground after she had wandered into the path of the players as they ran onto the ﬁeld – something he can joke about now, he said. “I stopped to see if I could try to help her,” said Brady, of the cheerleader who was unharmed in the incident. “My teammates told me about it.” Once Week 2 rolled around, though, it was the opposition Brady dropped the hammer on

– which included his favorite highlight of the night. “The sack I got when they were backed up in their own end,” said Brady. “There’s a lot more energy when you can make plays on defense.” While Brady will now occupy one side of the defensive line, having fellow senior and Division I college recruit Lloyd Johnson, Jr. on the other end sure helps in freeing him up to make even more plays,

he said. “I think other teams might decide to run the ball more on my side,” said Brady. “So, I’ll just come out and do my thing.” Next up for Brady and the Panthers is a Georgetown team that will provide a formidable challenge – particularly along the line of scrimmage, he said. “Their offensive line is a lot bigger than Del Valle’s,” said Brady. “So, I’ll just have to

R PANTHER GAMES FOR SEPT. 9

“Joe’s always been a quarterback coming up,” said Walker. “But, he’s always been able to run the ball.” Dyer has also produced thus far in a starting role in grinding out tough yards between the tackles, but Walker said he’s capable of much more. “Logan’s done pretty well,” he said. “But, we’re looking for him to stick it up in there a little more and break off some long runs.” Following the ﬁrst-week disaster, Walker said his squad is now resembling the team he wants to see from here on out. “We’re ﬁnally starting to like what we’re seeing from our players,” he said. “So, this game offers us an opportunity – we’re always looking for something to build off to get better.” The Panthers were scheduled to host Georgetown last season before the game was wiped away due to the shortened season, meaning this year’s matchup provides a boost that was absent last year, said Walker. “A team like Georgetown is a great challenge at this time of the year – it’s the game I most would’ve liked to have had last season,” he said. “They’re a team who’s had success and reminds me of what we faced in the playoffs last season – particularly Rouse – it’s going to give us more things to work on.”

stay low, but everything we do here is so off technique, which allows us to be able to do what we do.” As for facing their nearby neighbors to the east, Brady said he’s highly anticipating the contest. “We’re all just excited,” he said. “It’s going to be a crazy game.” No matter which side of the ball he ﬁnds himself on.

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Page 7

PANTHER OF THE WEEK

A burning desire to be better

Senior lineman aspires to serve country

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Chance Pogue stands 5-foot10 and tips the scales at 180 pounds. For a football player, that kind of stature is just right for a skill player such as a quarterback, running back or wide receiver. However, when the Liberty Hill senior takes the field on Friday nights with his Panthers teammates, he’s not throwing, running or catching the ball – but blocking for those that do as a member of the offensive line. In fact, if there’s a prototype for the kind of player who truly perpetuates the Panther way to play football, it’s Pogue, whose relentless work rate – particularly in the weight room – is a character trait which is admired and greatly valued by head coach Kent Walker. “Chance is one of the hardest workers I’ve ever been around,” said Walker. “There isn’t a day that goes by where he’s not in the room trying to put on more weight and get stronger – he has a real blue-collar mentality.” According to Pogue, his commitment has been cultivated over the years. “I feel like it really started back in seventh and eighth grade,” said Pogue, who plays quick guard in the Panthers’ Slot-T offense. “I don’t know what it is – something inside

me – I have a lot of grit and determination.” Pogue said he realizes not everybody is cut out to be as committed as he is – but he certainly knows a few. “Not many people like to push themselves,” he said. “But, most of the ones I know are in our locker room.” Speaking of Pogue and his teammates, after the Panthers lost their season opener in sloppy fashion – with much of the blame placed on the offensive line – he personally took it on himself to help fix what was broken in the usually-well-oiled machine that is the Liberty Hill offense. “Most of our struggles were due to the fact we have a whole new offense,” said Pogue, of the 11 new starters on the Panthers’ offense. “So, I just tried to lead everybody in the huddle in games and during practice in order to draw all of us together.” But, Pogue has another burning desire. To serve his country, by first attending a military academy before moving on in the business of national defense. “I believe serving your country is the greatest honor ever,” said Pogue. “I just think about the people who fight to give us the right to do what we do – I think the world of them and to be part of a team like that is something I can’t afford to

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Senior Chance Pogue (#72) has a fascination with fixing things and a desire to serve his country. not do.” Pogue has applied to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S Air Force Academy and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy – but said he definitely prefers to go Army. “When I went there for a visit, I just looked around at all the history and everything it stands for,” he said, of a trip he took to the campus in West Point, New York, with Panthers teammate Andon Thomas, who has already ver-

bally committed to the Black Knights. “It was like there was a pull inside of me.” Pogue said he’s sought out advice from veterans who have already done what he aspires to and what he heard stoked the fire inside him even more. “I’ve heard stories from people and how at times, it can be hell,” he said. “But, I believe trial by fire is the best way to better yourself, which is something I’ve really bought into.” Walker said Pogue’s mania-

cal methods only bode well for those around him. “It definitely rubs off on his teammates,” he said. “When you see a guy working as hard as he does, it compels others to do the same – he’s fun to watch.” As far as Pogue’s mechanical aptitude is concerned, he said it goes way back and first came to fruition in the form of giving his father a helping hand one day with a wayward weapon. “Back when I was 10, my

dad had a rifle which wouldn’t fire properly – it kept getting jammed all the time,” said Pogue. “So, I took it apart – right on the living room floor – cleaned it and put it back together.” But, that wasn’t all. “After I was done, I took it outside and fired it,” he said of the .22-caliber, semi-automatic marlin. “It didn’t blow up in my face, so I must’ve fixed it.” In recent years, Pogue’s

See POGUE, Page 8

Brother-sister duo fuels cross country squad

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Laney and Ryan McCarn aren’t twins, but recently at Liberty Hill’s cross country meet at Vista Ridge, both crossed the finish line in their respective races in 13th position. This year marks the first time the two are high-school teammates, as freshman Laney has joined junior Ryan as a member of the Panthers’ varsity squad and to say the younger sibling is thrilled to be there would be a massive understatement. “I was so happy to make varsity – it’s always been one of my dreams,” said Laney. “I couldn’t wait for my first meet.” Indeed, her maiden voyage on the varsity trails went quite well with an eighth-place finish in a field of 108 runners in a time of 20:40 and just to put a cherry on top of the sundae, she helped Liberty Hill’s girls secure victory in the team standings. So, what was it finally like to compete on the stage she had always envisioned herself performing on? “I had done a lot of training and felt like I was prepared,” she said. “But, there was still a lot of nervousness because I didn’t know how I was going to do.” The occasion marked the first time Laney had run the longer high-school distance – in this

case, three miles – compared to the shorter 2-mile middle school races she was accustomed to, so finding a proper pace to go the extra mile was a priority, she said. “I planned on going out fast from the start,” said Laney. “At the beginning of the race, I was a bit startled because there were so many more runners than I was used to.” However, when she would normally be crossing the finish line, she still had another entire mile to go before reaching the checkered flag – a situation which required a dose of determination, she said. “I just told myself ‘You got this’ and knew I needed to get to the front, so I started to sprint,” said Laney. “As I was going, I was thinking to myself ‘You’re actually doing this’ and I couldn’t believe it because I felt like I had dreamed it.” Once she had finally crossed the finish line, it was emotional overload, she said. “Completely amazing,” said Laney. “I had actually completed my first varsity meet.” Older brother was definitely duly impressed by his sister’s debut. “Pretty good,” said Ryan. “She did better than I thought she would.” What would he attribute Laney’s immediate impact to? “She’s really improved a lot,” he said. “She always went to

summer practice and trained on her own and I could tell she was getting better.” For Ryan, the race certainly wasn’t his first rodeo, as he finished as the highest-ranking Liberty Hill runner for the day on the boys’ side with an 11th-place finish in a time of 16:49.40. However, for the first time in his high school career, he’s free of the injuries which have plagued him to this point, providing him with the peace of mind of knowing he can finally just go out and attack courses to his full potential. “I’ve had all kinds of injuries,” said Ryan, of a laundry list of ailments which includes a stress fracture and a broken hip. “I couldn’t run for a long time, so I lost a lot of muscle and was weak.” According to head coach Kim Holt, Ryan has become more resilient as he’s grown. “When we got Ryan, he was little,” said Holt. “But, he’s gotten a lot stronger and gained 10-20 pounds.” How about the dynamic of a brother-sister combo on a team? “It works just fine if they like each other,” joked Holt. “They can encourage each other.” Holt added Laney has what it takes to immediately be competitive at the varsity level. “Laney has a lot of natural ability and has the build of a distance runner,” she said.

“But, she also has a lot of mental toughness, which gives her lots of confidence. A lot of young kids ares still figuring out what they want to do.” Ryan didn’t make the varsity squad until his sophomore season, as opposed to Laney running with the big girls as a freshman – but that’s not something he’s concerned with as far as his sister beating him to the proverbial punch, he said. “I’m not really worried about it,” said Ryan. “A lot of girls do better at first than boys.” Ryan played football, soccer and basketball as a youngster, but decided to focus solely on cross country upon his arrival in high school – perhaps somewhat surprising considering the fact he wasn’t too keen on trail running initially. “I didn’t really like running too much,” he said. “I even contemplated giving it up.” However, he stuck with it and is now reaping the dividends from the seeds he planted back then in P.E. class. “I’m a pretty competitive guy,” said Ryan. “So, when we would do the mile run, I always wanted to be first.” As for Laney – who only began running competitively two years ago in seventh grade – her fine form can be attributed to a newfound passion that now burns inside her, she said. “Back when I started running, I didn’t have the drive and de-

SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO

Ryan McCarn and younger sister Laney have finally joined forces as teammates for Liberty Hill’s cross country team.

sire to be better like I do now,” said Laney. “I viewed running more as a chore – something I had to do. But, then I changed my mindset and realized the competition was something to enjoy.” Was there help from big brother along the road of revelation? “He made me see how he was doing, so I said to myself ‘I can do this, too – I really want to try,’” said Laney. “Now, it’s been more fun because we’re on the same team.” However, just because they’re

now teammates doesn’t mean some kind of sibling rivalry is going to pop up, she said. “No, there’s not much of a rivalry,” said Laney. “There’s not a competition, but I would like to be as good as my brother.” Does big brother feel any pressure to perform with his sister on his heels? “I don’t really feel any pressure,” said Ryan. “I just want to be a good role model for her.”

Panthers perform 180 in a week’s time

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Week 1 of the new football season saw the Panthers lose by five points to a mediocre Ellison team. Fast-forward seven days and Liberty Hill posted a 56-point victory over a more talented Del Valle team boasting one of the top college recruits in all of the country. So, what was the difference? Focus. At least according to Panthers head coach Kent Walker it was. Thing is, focus will come around right quick after being embarrassed in front of the home crowd, so we finally saw the Liberty Hill team we’re

accustomed to in the second game. So, whatever Walker and his coaching staff were doing in the wee hours of early-morning, pre-dawn practice certainly worked like a charm in turning his team’s fortunes around in rapid fashion. Gone were the sloppy penalties that had plagued the Purple-and-Gold in the opener and in its place was the trademark discipline and welloiled-machine execution Liberty Hill teams are known for. After seven fumbles in the first game, the Panthers only put a pair on the plastic pitch, while forcing seven by the Cardinals, of which they recovered four. Any football coach will tell you the turnover battle is one of the most important fights on the field that must be won, which is one big reason for

the enormous swing from one game to the next – 61 points worth – to be exact. In addition, there were some Panthers personnel changes that had a massive impact on the proceedings – one on either side of the ball. Offensively, sophomore Joe Pitchford – who usually functions as backup quarterback – was pressed into service as a running back and responded with 12 carries for 49 yards and a touchdown. Not bad for someone who usually hands the ball off instead of getting it himself, as time and again Pitchford picked up tough yards between the tackles and looked very comfortable doing it, as if he was playing his normal position. On the other side of the line, senior Hollis Brady had a huge game in collecting two

sacks and forcing a fumble to go with seven tackles from his new home at defensive end. Late in the first quarter, with the Cardinals already backed up on their own 16-yard line, Brady broke through the Del Valle offensive line on a 3rdand-14 play like a heat-seeking missile in blowing up the ballcarrier and jarring the ball loose in the process. So, good for both lads in stepping up their games in unfamiliar positional territory. Make no mistake, after a defense that gave up points by the boatload in last season’s playoffs, the Panthers have now allowed only 18 points in two games against quality competition – and six of those were on a fumble return in the Ellison game on a botched field goal attempt. This just in. Allowing only six points per

game against a pair of Class 6A clubs bodes well for a defense that won’t be severely tested after these first four games until the playoffs roll around, as the same sad-sack district schedule we all suffered through last year will rear its ugly, Austin-based head again – with apologies to Marble Falls, who is the only halfway formidable opponent in the Panthers’ path. Honestly, after the Week 1 disaster, we feared Week 2 had the potential to be an even rougher evening at the office, with the skill players on the Del Valle roster led by a coach who had just won the mythical high school national championship last season. Glad we were wrong. However, we should have known because that’s what this program does – persevere. After the loss of former head

coach Jeff Walker last season, this is a team that fought on and excelled when many other would have folded under the emotional strain. What’s a little one-game slump compared to that? Next, it’s on the road for the first time this season, with a short trip up Highway 29 to visit a Georgetown team that has also split a pair of contests against Class 6A opposition, so we’ll see how that matchup shakes out. For the time being, though, everything in Pantherville seems to be headed back in the right direction after the meltdown we witnessed to kick off the season, so congrats to the players for getting their collective act together so quickly. We’ll see what Chapter 3 has in store this week. sports@LHIndependent.com

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

VOLLEYBALL BRIEFS Lady Panthers win five-setter on the road

assists, Haley Kuhlmann 21 digs and Hair six blocks on the evening, as Hair, Bailey Becker and Keegan Walton all served an ace apiece. Morgan Poulain blocked a pair of shots and Carson Glenn added seven assists. Liberty Hill (26-7) will open district play at home against Rouse on Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m.

By SCOTT AKANEWICH Sports Editor Coming off last week’s disappointing defeat in the season-opener to Ellison, Liberty Hill was in the market for a big bounceback this week and that’s exactly what the Panthers got in a dominant 62-6 home victory over Del Valle. Noah Long had 22 carries for 158 yards and five touchdowns in a much-improved effort from the Liberty Hill offense to go along with another shutdown effort by the Purple-and-Gold defense in rebounding from its opening-week defeat. According to senior linebacker Andon Thomas, the victory provided a huge amount of relief for him and his teammates on both sides of the ball. “Tonight was such a great feeling,” said Thomas. “Practice for our offense was really good this week and the defense did its job.” Last week it took until just over a minute was left in the game for the Panthers to hit pay dirt with their lone points of the contest, but this time around, it took less than two minutes after the opening kickoff to light up the scoreboard for what would prove to be the first time of many on the evening. The Panthers’ defense forced a Cardinals three-and-out on the game’s opening possession, forcing Del Valle quarterback Skylar Hausenfluck to drop back into his own end zone to punt – a short kick that was nearly blocked before it was returned 21 yards by Carter Hudson all the way down to the 4-yard line. On the next play and Liberty Hill’s first from scrimmage, Long bounced in for his first score of the night to quickly make it a 7-0 game. Only four plays after the ensuing kickoff, Hausenfluck found himself once again in the shadow of his own goal post for another punt and after another Hudson return, the Panthers’ offense was back in business again in the red zone leading to another

Liberty Hill defenders Drake Torno (#44) and Reid Bynum (#62) close down a Del Valle player during the Panthers’ 62-6 home victory. Long scamper, this one from Head coach Kent Walker ly, to further fuel the Panthers 11 yards out and a 14-0 advan- praised his troops for getting defense. tage before five minutes had out on the front foot and estabWalker highlighted both deexpired on the game clock. lishing a tone from the get-go. fenders for what they brought Hausenfluck finally got to “We were very opportunistic to the fight. throw the ball instead of kick- early – they made some mis“Hollis came over and did ing it on the next series and takes,” said Walker. “But, the a really good job for us – we connected with wideout Nano biggest thing I’m most proud knew he could play some deCrayton on a 75-yard scoring of is the ability of our kids to fense,” he said. “Carlton is getstrike on the first play of the bounce back from last week to ting better and better – it was next series to cut the home this week.” his first start as a safety on the team’s lead to 14-6. Panthers backup quarterback back end and he played really However, that would be all Joe Pitchford was a surprise well.” the scoring for the Cardinals starter at running back and By the time the fourth quarter on this night, which would also provided a proper pick-me- rolled around, all that was left shortly end for Hausenfluck, up for missing starter Gavin for Long was to score his fifth who was forced to the side- Salinas with a 2-yard scoring touchdown of the night on a lines with an injury that kept run midway through the sec- 4-yard run before senior Grady the junior signal-caller out for ond quarter before Long again Flinn capped off the scoring the rest of the game. crossed the goal line from 15 with a 13-yard run with 2:38 No matter, as the Liberty Hill yards out after senior defen- left to provide the final margin offense kept rolling up yards in sive end Lloyd Johnson, Jr. of victory. the customary fashion which had picked up a loose ball and Another feather in the cap was missing in Week 1, but it rumbled 52 yards all the way of the Panthers’ defense was was an opportunistic defense to the Cardinals 15-yard line to limiting heavily-recruited that produced Panthers points set up Long’s score and a 42-6 Cardinals junior wide receivnext. Liberty Hill halftime lead. er Braylon James to a single Kaden McMahan intercepted Carlton Schrank hauled in the catch – which was a source of a pass from backup quarter- first of his two interceptions on pride for the entire unit, said back Tim Caldwell and re- the game nearing the end of the Thomas. turned it all the way down the first half and added a second “We had game-planned sideline for a 53-yard touch- later in the contest, as the Del around him,” said Thomas, of down, which was followed Valle offense could get nothing the rangy, 6-foot-2, 175-pound soon thereafter by an Aden going. James, who has already reBurrell scoop-and-score inside Senior Hollis Brady – who ceived 33 Division I scholarthe Del Valle 5-yard line after moved across the line of ship offers from powerhouse an enormous hit from Thom- scrimmage to a defensive end programs across the country as jarred the ball loose from spot for the game – had a mas- such as Stanford, USC, Texas, a Cardinals back inside the 10 sive impact on the proceedings Notre Dame and Ohio State. and it was 28-6 at the end of with a pair of sacks for losses See DEL VALLE, Page 9 the first quarter. of 10 and 11 yards, respective-

passion for fixing things has played out in the form of restoring a 1966 Ford Mustang, which he drives to games on Friday nights – another example of the kind of drive which will serve him well down the road. “Chance is going to be successful in the game of life in whatever he does,” said Walker. “He can do anything he puts his mind to.” Pogue would prefer to work

in mechanical engineering during his time in the military, but is open to just about anything, as long as it means wearing Old Glory on his uniform, he said. “The military has so many opportunities, I don’t think there are many I wouldn’t like,” said Pogue. “Really, any area I could help in and be a productive member of the organization and hope it’s all in God’s plan.”

ALEX RUBIO PHOTO

Pogue Continued from Page 7

Allaire ALEX RUBIO FILE PHOTO

Liberty Hill’s Ryan McCarn helped the Panthers’ boys to a team victory at the Pro-Fit Invitational in Temple, while the girls also claimed victory.

CROSS COUNTRY BRIEFS

Double victory for Panthers in Temple

TEMPLE -- Liberty Hill’s early-season success on the trails continued as the girls’ and boys’ squad both won team titles at the Pro-Fit Invitational in Temple. The Lady Panthers, with 78 points outdistanced runners-up Belton, who posted 86 on the day. Individually, freshman Avery Frank crossed the line in second place in a field of 98 runners in a time of 19:24.40 behind winner Ella Perry of Harker Heights, who won in 19:08.00. However, the Panthers’ penchant for placing runners in the top 15 continued, as another pair of freshmen finished 12th and 13th in Laney McCarn (20:59.60) and Nina Burnett (21:01.30), respectively. Awery Holland (21st, 21:46.60) and Nanci Sanchez (34th, 22:27.50) rounded out the points for Liberty Hill. Also finishing for the Panthers were Natalie Roth (36th, 22:29.30), Ashley Price (53rd, 23:13.70), Ella Egizio (54th, 23:14.80), Eimilie

Thursday, September 9, 2021

Liberty Hill rebounds with decisive win

Maddi Rowley (11) led Liberty Hill with 19 kills in the Lady Panthers’ 3-2 (25-22, 18-25, 23-25, 28-26, 15-13) away victory over Stephenville.

Liberty Hill’s volleyball squad made the 280-mile round trip to Stephenville well worth it with a stirring 3-2 (2522, 18-25, 23-25, 28-26, 1513) comeback victory over the Class 4A Honeybees. Senior Maddi Rowley led the way with 19 kills, while Kealy Dirner and Ailie Hair each added 12 in the win. Emma Parsons supplied 34

Taylor (55th, 23:15.60) and senior Emma Hiebner (65th, 23:47.20). On the boys’ side, the Panthers put up 45 points in defeating Belton, who had 69 in second. All five of Liberty Hill’s top scorers finished in the top 15, with junior Ryan McCarn leading the way in seventh with a time of 16:47.00. Caden Glenn (10th, 16:59.20), Brandon Escobar (12th, 17:03.40), senior Jacob Russell (13th, 17:03.70) and Cayden Branch (16th, 17:05.50) rounded out the top five. Also finishing in a field of 131 were senior Greg Miller (37th, 17:47.10), Christopher Higginbotham (39th, 18:05.20), Brandon Colicher (48th, 18:25.10), Jack Roth (56th, 18:40.70) and Chay Luna (62nd, 18:52.50). Belton’s Zach Dennison won the race in 16:01.00. Next for the Panthers is their home meet, the Liberty Hill Invitational, at Liberty Hill Middle School on Sept. 11.

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Aside from the physical part of the game, Allaire said the most challenging aspect for him has been the mental side. “I think that’s the most difficult part,” he said. “You can’t let things get in your head and be down and you have to be able to adapt to the kind of op-

Dirner

ponent you’re playing.” One might think transitioning from a high-intensity sport such as basketball to the more serene nature of tennis would prove to be challenging, but for Allaire, it’s not an issue, said Rhoden. “Josh is very much in control

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immediate impact on the varsity scene. “Kealy has a ton of volleyball knowledge,” she said. “She loves the sport and is committed.” However, making the varsity roster is one thing – being inserted into the starting lineup with virtually no experience at that level is another chore altogether, but it’s a situation Dirner now finds herself in as the result of starter and senior Emma Becker being out for the season with an ankle injury. Serious change of plans, said Peterson. “Kealy’s role coming into this season was to get a couple of touches here and there,” she said. “But, instead she’s been thrust into an opportunity and has already had some amazing moments.” But, along with the ups, there are also downs in the learning curve – something Dirner is having to learn on the job. “Sometimes it’s hard because I don’t want to make mistakes,” said Dirner. “I try to just play and not overthink, but that only comes with practice until it’s instinctual.”

All that being said, Peterson understands patience is required when it comes to handling young, relatively inexperienced players. “We trust all of our players – which we try to stress to them all the time,” she said. “We aren’t expecting them to be perfect – all we want is maximum effort. They need chances to fail, so they can learn how to come back from it – that’s how you learn and get stronger. Nobody’s an expert right from the start and we’re really aware of that.” When Dirner initially realized she would suddenly see much more court time than she had expected, there was understandable anxiety, she said. “At first, I was really nervous because I wasn’t expecting to play so much because I had Emma (Becker) and (senior) Maddi (Rowley) in front of me, but Coach Peterson helped talk me through it,” said Dirner. “So, now I feel a lot more confident and all the girls on the team have definitely helped, too.” Dirner’s older sister, Ashton, is a Liberty Hill Class of 2020

Running Continued from Page 5 of the 10 varsity athletes who are permitted to participate in an event. “Then, we’ll all take off on our own.” Hiebner said she often finds herself alone on the course, but always tries to keep somebody in her sights to pull her along. “I just tell myself ‘I have to catch that girl,’” she said. Without teammates around her, she finds other ways to motivate herself. “Sometimes, I think of songs in my head, but it depends

on my mood,” said Hiebner. “Other times, I’ll just throw my emotions into it.” Hiebner added other teams will often marvel at the Panthers’ ability to run together in packs. “I think it’s intimidating for some – I’ll hear people say things like ‘Wow, how does Liberty Hill do that?’” she said. “But, that’s because we always practice in our groups and make sure we improve our times together.”

of his emotions,” she said. In addition, Rhoden said Allaire is always Johnny-on-thespot when it comes to assisting in any way he can. “He really has integrity when it comes to everything,” she said. “Josh is always the first to come up to me and say

‘Coach, what do you need help with?’ He’s been trained very well and we’re glad he’s here.” So, does he miss basketball? “Yes and no,” said Allaire. “But, I made my decision – I’d rather be here than on the bench.”

alum who is currently on a softball scholarship at San Angelo State, so the younger sibling also played softball in her earlier years, along with basketball and track, but it’s on her current court where she has found her true calling, she said. “I love volleyball,” said Dirner. “It’s my favorite and what I think I’m best at.” To that end, Dirner is dedicating herself more than ever before to becoming a master of her craft, so she and her teammates will be ready when the looming district campaign kicks off. “For me, it’s about playing more and getting used to it in practice,” said Dirner. “We’ve already done well against some amazing Class 6A teams, so I know we’ll be ready for teams like Rouse and Cedar Park.” Dirner cited her defensive skills as perhaps her strongest attribute at the moment, but knows in order to succeed in her new full-time role, she must improve on a very important aspect of her job description. “My hitting needs to be bet-

ter, as far as getting off the net and having a better approach before I swing,” she said. “Also, being able to place the ball better.” As the curve of improvement continues upward, Peterson realizes Dirner will break through one ceiling after another the further into her Lady Panthers career she progresses. “Kealy’s best effort this season is going to be good enough,” she said. “But, that being said, her best will be better next season, then even better as a senior. She wouldn’t be on this team if she couldn’t do the job.” As far as replacing Becker in the lineup, Peterson said she doesn’t expect Dirner – or any other player, for that matter – to be able to fill the shoes of the injured hitter. All she wants is for Dirner to be herself. “Kealy just needs to be Kealy out there,” said Peterson. “She brings a different dynamic than Emma, so we don’t want to compare because she has her own unique skill set.”

Thursday, September 9, 2021

COUNCIL

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“We need to take into consideration the flow of traffic in our community,” said Council member Angela Jones. “A three-way stop there is going to stop the traffic, and that’s not a long-term solution. I believe we would incur additional costs in the future for a stoplight or something there. I wish [the tee intersection] option was more viable, but I don’t think it is. The roundabout is aesthetically pleasing as you enter our city, and it will keep traffic flowing.” The Council voted 4-1 to approve the roundabout with Council member Kathy Canady opposed claiming a concern for pedestrian safety. A timeline for the project has not been set but will take place once the 2021-22 fiscal year’s budget is in place. Also at the meeting, interim finance director Misti Han-

LUEs

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cock notified the Council that the public hearing to adopt the tax rate and budget needed to be moved from Sept. 8 to Sept. 22, because the tax code requires public hearings to be within seven days of the tax vote. The Council used its Sept. 8 meeting to discuss the draft budget line item by line item and will hold the public hearings and vote on both the tax rate and budget on Sept. 22. The public hearing is set for 5:30 p.m. at the municipal court. Hancock added that while the 2020 audit won’t be complete before the budget needs to be approved, she and the auditors have made significant headway with the final necessary items. “We’ve made enough headway that [the auditors] will get us some draft financial info next week,” she said, adding

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restrictions, city staff has a few ideas that will reduce the city’s dependency on Leander water. “We are working to ﬁnd adjacent entities that can offer us additional resources like well sites,” Hale said. “We are also looking at increasing the capacity for our current infrastructure. We are still in negotiations for those factors we need more time to put those out in public, but we are

actively negotiating for these additional resources.” According to the statement posted on the City website, the City is not running out of water. “There is an adequate supply of water at this time,” according to the announcement. “The restrictions have been implemented because there has been a reduction of treated water. Liberty Hill is actively moni-

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that she is also going through the City’s entire roster of bank account, bond accounts and more. “Soon I will be able to share some ballpark numbers with council,” Hancock said. “I think by October we will be able to tell you exactly what money we have and what money has been spent. We are making huge progress from a ﬁnance perspective.” During the meeting, the council also discussed a salary survey conducted for all employees. “The survey puts things in perspective on what the market value is and shows a true representation of what our salaries are within the city,” said City Administrator Lacie Hale. “Most positions get paid 90 percent of the market value, besides a couple of police and public works positions. This

survey is just for information purposes to show how we compare.” Jones said while the survey is helpful, she wants to use it as a jumping off point to make sure employees who are making above the market rate are on a salary freeze, and those who are not are offered a program to increase their salaries based on experience and performance. “I don’t think we should be giving any arbitrary raises,” she said. “From what I’ve seen so far, salary increases in the city do not have any evidence given to them. It’s ‘you’re working a whole lot and trying to do a good job, so we’re going to throw money at you.’ We need to look at the employees being overworked and provide them support, not just give them a raise.”

toring growth and implementing plans for more treatment options.” “When we go to Stage 3, it’s going to be bad,” said Canady. “[Leander is] holding our feet to the ﬁre and in order for us to survive we’re going to have to possibly go to Stage 3. That’s just not right.” Pezold said within the next month, he and Jones plan to co-sponsor a town hall meet-

ing for the community to discuss the city’s water issues. He added that he is optimistic about future water supply. “Things look incredibly good with the opportunities coming our way, and we’re anxious to have a town hall and talk about it,” he said. “I feel conﬁdent about where we are going. Right now, it’s not under control, but we hope to give a report soon that it will be.”

MIDDLE SCHOOL BRIEFS Football Santa Rita Middle School kicked off its inaugural football season against Hutto with three games. The 8th-grade defeated Hutto 6-0 on a touchdown pass from JD Friday to DJ Seaborn, while the defense posted a shutout as Jett Harrison led the way, with three sacks and two forced fumbles. Carson Neilson had an interception late in the fourth quar-

ter to seal the game for Santa Rita. Both of Santa Rita’s 7th-grade squads were defeated in their respective ﬁrst games. The A team lost, 48-16, with two touchdowns coming from Brady Gage on trap plays from 63 and 23 yards out, respectively. The B team lost, 38-8, with the only score from Rowan Cox on a sweep play from 33 yards out.

. “He couldn’t catch the ball if they couldn’t get it to him.” Walker saved his kindest post-game words for Long, who continues to spark the Panthers’ offense with his speed and shiftiness. “Noah’s a pretty special running back, he really is,” he said. “I think tonight was the best I’ve seen him run and I think tonight was his real breakout as a varsity football player – he broke a lot of tackles, refused to go down and just did an outstanding job.” As for the costly penalties and turnovers that plagued the Pan-

thers in the opener, Walker was pleased to report his charges did a much better job in those departments. “I think it’s just a focus thing, I think we were extremely focused in practice this week – not that we weren’t in practice last week because I think we were,” he said. “But, you know, I just don’t want to make any excuses for us.” Next up will be a road battle against nearby neighbors Georgetown, which means there’s not much rest for the weary, said Walker.

DEL VALLE Continued from Page 8

TENNIS BRIEFS Liberty Hill’s tennis team made it seven wins in eight team matches this season and a perfect 3-0 district record with a 16-3 home victory against East View. In girls’ singles, No. 1 India Young won 6-1, 6-0, No. 2 Ellis Young won 6-0, 6-0, No. 3 Jennifer Merrill won 6-0, 6-0, No. 4 Ella Bodnar won 6-1, 6-0, No. 5 Peyton Buckley won 6-1, 6-1 and No. 6 Ava Ortega won 6-1, 6-1. In boys’ singles, No. 1 Joseph Sherman won 6-2,6-2, No. 2 Patrick Fay lost 6-2, (2-7), (710), No. 3 Ethan Wukasch lost 6-4, 3-6, (9-11), No. 4 Colin Garner won 5-7, 6-2, (10-7), No. 5 Will Gray won 6-0, 6-3 and No. 6 Michael Evans lost (4-7), 3-6.

In girls’ doubles, No. 1 E. Young/I. Young won 6-1, 6-1, No. 2 Buckley/Merrill won 6-0, 6-1 and No. 3 Ortega/Eliza Homorodi won 6-2, 6-4. In boys’ doubles, No. 1 Fay/ Wukasch won 6-2, 6-2, No. 2 Garner/Gray won 6-4, 6-4, and No. 3 Tyler Williams/Will Snell won 6-1, 5-7 (10-7). Mixed doubles saw No. 1 Sophie Sherman/Joseph Sherman win 6-0, 6-0. In extra matches, Josh Allaire and Cash Terry lost 5-8, Holt Avery lost, 5-8 and Emma Neeley and Jon Kiger lost in a tie breaker. Liberty Hill will next play at SCOTT AKANEWICH PHOTO Lake Belton Academy on Sept. 11 and at Glenn on Sept. 14 The No. 2 girls’ doubles team of Peyton Buckley and Jennifer before returning home to host Merrill won its match during the Panthers’ home district victory against East View. Georgetown on Sept. 17.

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THE LIBERTY HILL INDEPENDENT

HOMES AROUND THE HILL Coming Soon! Silver Creek Ranch - 2 acres Kempner Ranch - 40 acres 2 Homes/Guest House - 4.95 acres Liberty Hill - 76 acres Hidden Creek Estates Little Gabriel River Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Bertram Bertram Durham Park Florence Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Florence Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Amiifast Ind Park Highland Lake Estates - Lago Vista Hornsby, J - 4.6 acres Durham Park Palmera Ridge Liberty Hill - 17 acres Mesa Vista Ranch Forest Creek Hillcrest Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Mesa Vista Ranch Luciano Cabasos Cantarra Meadows/Pﬂugerville Buttercup Townhomes Llano Palmera Ridge - Leander Flores Iron Oak - 2 acres

Summerlynn - Leander Near Downtown Liberty Hill University Park - Georgetown Spring Meadows - 2 Homes Saratoga Springs Somerset Ranch San Gabriel River - 3/4 acres Cloudwood Ranch Lot - Briggs Liberty Hill Burnet Liberty Hill - 2.2 acres

644 Silver Creek Dr 820 Panther Creek 1601 CR 256 4060 CR 201 141 Taylor Creek Way

Homes for Sale

3BR/2BA - Pool 6BR/5BA 4BR/4BA 3BR/2B - Bardo & Shop 3BR/2BA - Game Room - 1+ acre Acreage / Lots / Property for Sale 420 Iva Bell Lane Barn TBD Lobella Bloom Bend Lot 91, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 71, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 74, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 75, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 79, Block 1 Phase III TBD Yellow Senna Pl Lot 80, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 83, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 85, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 87, Block 1 Phase III TBD Red Yucca Ct Lot 89, Block 1 Phase III 00 CR 321 San Gabriel River Frontage Lot 2A CR321 San Gabriel River Frontage 500 CR 288 Trees, electric, water Tract 3A N Hwy 195 No restrictions, Ag exempt 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 Red Yucca Ct Lot 88, Block 1 Phase III Tract 4B N Hwy 195 No restrictions, Ag exempt Lot 12 Cloudwood Ranch Rd Lots of trees Commercial Property for Sale 100 Bevers No restrictions, water available 110 Bevers No restrictions, water available 118 Bevers No restrictions, water available 126 Bevers No restrictions, water available 129 Bevers No restrictions, water available 145 Bevers No restrictions, water available Under Contract / Pending 20701 Harrison Cv 1840 CR 226 550 Shin Oak Lane 2200 Bonavista Way 17600 W State Hwy 29 TBD Yellow Senna Pl 2237 Shark Loop 120 Crestview Dr 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 13500 Kearns Dr 401 Buttercup Creek Blvd 504 E Green St 2201 Bonavista Way 550 Stadium Dr

Electricity & water available 4BR/2BA Wet weather creek 3BR/2BA 3 Homes & Barn Lot 92, Block 1 Phase III 4BR/2.5BA 3BR/2BA 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 4BR/2BA, Game Room 2BR/2.5BA 3BR/2BA 3BR/2BA - 2 car garage Cleared & level Sold! 232 Oak Hill 4BR/4BA 104 Falcon Lane 4BR/2.5BA - 2 car garage 3103 CR 1869 Commercial, Mixed Use 2006 E 18th St 3BR/2BA 440 CR 277 5BR/3.5BA 402 Spring Grove 3BR/2BA 1105 Somerset Meadow 4BR/3.5BA 121 River Rd 3BR/2BA Lot 22 Cloudwood Ranch Rd Lots of oaks, backs to creek 2210 CR 282 Build to suit home site 709 Rhomberg 3BR/1BA 140 Shin Oak Lane 3BR/2BA + pool

$ 699,000 $1,200,000 $ 995,000 $2,250,000 $ 895,000

2306 sq ft 4483 sq ft 3112 sq ft 1624 sq ft 2943 sq ft

Amy Gandy Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Tammy Wise Tammy Wise

$1,300,000 $ 201,000 $ 203,000 $ 212,000 $ 275,000 $ 229,000 $ 201,000 $ 201,000 $ 285,000 $ 404,000 $ 202,000 $ 950,000 $ 600,000 $ 225,000 $ 338,168 $ 219,000 $ 210,000 $ 418,000 $ 248,000 $ 564,300 $ 255,000

20 acres 2.01 acres 2.03 acres 2.12 acres 2.75 acres 2.29 acres 2.01 acres 2.01 acres 2.85 acres 4.04 acres 2.02 acres 30 acres 15 acres 2.19 acres 11.3 acres 2.19 acres 2.10 acres 4.18 acres 2.48 acres 20.9 acres 7.74 acres

Amy Gandy Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Dax Oglesby Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Tammy Wise Dax Oglesby Cheryl Stephens

$ $ $ $ $ $

1.05 acres 1.04 acres 1.04 acres 1.05 acres 4.49 acres 3.110 acres

Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White

550,000 460,000 365,000 275,000 980,000 680,000

SUBSCRIBE 512.778.5577

Sabrina Jordan REALTOR®

512.680.0375 cell sabrinajordan.kwrealty.com RESIDENTIAL, LAND, FARM & RANCH HOMETOWN ROOTS HOMETOWN VALUES

SELLING L LIBERTY HIL FOR 40 YEARS!

BUYING OR SELLING A HOME?

60,000 .394 acres

Dax Oglesby Shane T. White 2 acres Amy Gandy 2100 sq ft Amy Gandy 1800 sq ft Tammy Wise 2.07 acres Tammy Wise 2627 sq ft Shane T. White 1568 sq ft Shane T. White 2.03 acres Tammy Wise 2.37 acres 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 2507 sq ft Cheryl Stephens 1280 sq ft Shane T. White 1671 sq ft Sabrina Jordan 1855 sq ft Amy Gandy 1.337 acre Side-Pad Shane T. White

Thursday, September 9, 2021

$ 379,000 2432 sq ft $ 175,000 $ 510,000

$1,600,000 $ 207,000 $ 538,000 $ 235,000 $ 203,000 $ 237,000 $ 217,000 $ 201,000 $ 201,000 $ 201,000 $ 204,000 $ 250,000 $ 420,000 $ 275,000 $ 200,000 $ 430,000 $ 750,000

$ 765,000 2800 sq ft

Dax Oglesby

$ 350,000 968 sq ft

Dax Oglesby

$ 350,000 2044 sq ft $ 315,000 1404 sq ft $ 429,250 2950 sq ft $ 225,000 1704 sq ft $ 800,000 2739 sq ft $ 230,000 1440 sq ft

$ 197,500 4.25 acres $ 245,000 2.883 acres $ 252,000 900 sq ft

$ 430,000 1611 sq ft

RE/MAX Town & Country 13561 W. Hwy 29, Liberty Hill shanetwhite@remax.net www.ShaneTWhiteTeam.com

512.515.5263

Dax Oglesby Dax Oglesby

Shane T. White Shane T. White Shane T. White

Cheryl Stephens Cheryl Stephens Sabrina Jordan Sabrina Jordan Dax Oglesby

LIBERTY HILL’S REAL ESTATE GUIDE Feature your property listings weekly! (512) 778-5577

Real Life. Real People. Real Estate.

Is NOW the time to sell your home? Call us ... We know the answer! Kristen Childers REALTOR®

Tammy Wise REALTOR®

(512) 501 501-0777 AustinAndHillCountryRealEstate.com

900 Quest Parkway Cedar Park, TX 78613

“Our family of seasoned professional agents is what makes us unique. We’re here to help you, whether it’s selling your property or assisting in finding and purchasing the home of your dreams.”

Adrienne Hughes

Cheryl Stephens

512-810-0185

512-417-0026

Broker/Owner

Realtor ®, GRI, MRP

3106 Ranch Road 1869 | Liberty Hill, TX 78642 | www.Hughes-and-Company.com

Residential • Farm and Ranch Minerals • Land and Leasing

Dax Oglesby

REALTOR®, RPL daxoglesbysgrhomes@gmail.com

(512) 635-7529

3103 Ranch Road 1869 Liberty Hill

www.DaxSellsTexas.com

From Waco to New Braunfels, Llano to LaGrange and everywhere in between.

Amy Gandy, Broker/Owner | MCNE, CLHMS 512-589-9005 | amy@agandyandco.com www.agandyandco.com