April is Volunteer Appreciation Month—a time to celebrate the heart and soul of our community and your chamber: volunteers. These selfless individuals give their time, talents, and passion to causes that strengthen our neighborhoods, support our schools, uplift our local businesses, and benefit our non-profits including the Chamber. From the quiet organizers behind community events to the voices shaping local policies, volunteers are the driving force behind the growth and success of Bastrop.
At the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce, we are fortunate to work with a dedicated network of volunteers who serve not just the Chamber but our entire region. Whether it’s serving on a committee, attending advocacy events, or lending their expertise to local initiatives, our volunteers remind us that community progress doesn’t happen by accident—it happens because people choose to show up.
Why Volunteerism Matters
Volunteering creates connection. It’s where relationships form, skills are shared, and goals become realities. In a world that often feels fast-paced and impersonal due to social media, volunteering offers a meaningful way to engage—with others, with purpose, and in the place we call home.
Volunteers are often the first to show up and the last to leave. They’re the people who ask, “How can I help?” and mean it. Their work might be behind the scenes, but the results are front and center—in stronger businesses, better policies, and a brighter future.
Studies have consistently shown that communities with high levels of volunteer engagement enjoy lower crime rates, stronger economies, and improved
educational outcomes. Why? Because when people invest in their community, they’re also building the kind of environment where everyone can thrive –remember our theme “Thrive in 2025?!?”
Volunteer Opportunities with the Bastrop Chamber
In the spirit of Volunteer Appreciation Month, the Bastrop Chamber is inviting individuals with a heart and a head for service to consider joining one of our key committees:
Governmental Affairs Committee
This committee monitors local, state, and federal issues that impact our business community. Volunteers help shape our legislative priorities, communicate with elected officials, and organize advocacy efforts. If you’re passionate about policy and want to make sure the voice of Bastrop businesses is heard, we’d love to have you at the table.
Education Committee
This committee bridges the gap between our schools and the business community. We focus on our We Believe in BISD initiative. Volunteers collaborate with educators, students, and administrators to ensure Bastrop’s future is bright and bold.
Serving on these committees is more than a volunteer opportunity—it’s a chance to be part of real change. It’s a way to share your expertise, expand your network, and support initiatives that shape our local economy and educational landscape.
Good People Needed in Public Service
As we celebrate volunteerism, we also want to shine a light on an equally important form of service: elected office. Democracy thrives when it is powered by people who care—not just about winning elections, but about making thoughtful, ethical, and forward-thinking decisions for the common good.
Now more than ever, we need good people to consider running for local office—those who understand the needs of small businesses, believe in smart economic development, and are willing to listen and lead with integrity. Public service is not always easy, but it is essential. If you’ve ever said, “Someone should do something,” maybe that someone is you.
Just as a friendly reminder, we do have several contested races going on. First, we have 3 people in the City of Bastrop mayoral race, them being: Ishmael Harris, Willie DeLaRosa and Ward Northcutt. There are two running for Place 1: Perry Lowe and Cecilia Serna, then there are two for Place 5: John Kirkland (incumbent) and Cheryl Lee. For Bastrop ISD School Board, there is one contested race for Place 5 and the candidate are: Chris Dillon and John Eason.
Early voting is Aprill 22 – 29, 2025, with Election Day on Saturday, May 3, 2025. For more details on loca-
tions and times, please check-out BastropVotes.com under the Voter Information tab. Local elections impact us the most and every vote counts. Do your research and cast your ballot wisely.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To every volunteer reading this: thank you. Your time, your energy, and your passion make Bastrop a better place for everyone. We see you. We appreciate you. And we celebrate you—not just this month, but every single day.
To those considering getting involved: now is the time. Your community needs you. Whether you have one hour a week or can commit to more, there’s a place for you here. Because when good people step up, great things happen.
Check out our website for volunteer opportunities, come by and visit with us to see how BEST to plug in or send an email to info@bastropchamber.com and we will reach back out to you. As always, we appreciate your investment in the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce. Together we thrive in 2025!
Sincerely,
Becki Womble, CCE, IOM President/CEO
Session 6: B.E.S.T. Leadership Class Explores Smithville
On Thursday, March 28, 2025, the B.E.S.T. Leadership Class gathered for Session 6, spotlighting the historic and welcoming city of Smithville, Texas. Nestled along the Colorado River, Smithville is a tight-knit community known for its vibrant downtown, charming architecture, and rich history. This session aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of how local government works, explore economic development challenges, and foster stronger relationships within the community and among class members. Supported by the Chambers of Commerce throughout Bastrop County, the B.E.S.T. Leadership Program continues to shape future leaders by connecting them with civic insights and community engagement opportunities.
City Manager Panel: Leadership in Action
The day began at the First National Bank of Smithville, where participants kicked off the day with an engaging panel of Bastrop County’s City Managers: Sylvia Carrillo from the City of Bastrop, Robert Tamble from the City of Smithville, and Isaac Turner, Interim City Manager of the City of Elgin. Facilitated by Dominica McGinnis, the panel offered a candid look into the unique challenges and responsibilities faced by each city leader.
The City Managers shared insights into their roles, operating structures, and community-specific challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between city management and the City Council. Sylvia Carrillo discussed Bastrop’s ongoing infrastructure initiatives and the balance between growth and preservation. Robert Tamble highlighted Smithville’s community-driven approach and the value of maintaining local identity. Isaac Turner addressed the misconception that industrial development solely means factories and smoke-
stacks, explaining how clean industrial developments and business parks can provide revenue without significantly burdening local resources, such as police, fire, or water services.
During the Q&A session, participants asked thoughtful questions about budgeting processes, revenue sources, and the common misconceptions surrounding city management. The City Managers emphasized the critical role of the City Council in decision-making and how they work together to address community needs. Inspired by the discussion, many class members expressed a desire to become more involved in their own communities.
Exploring Smithville by Train
After the panel, the class took a tour of Smithville aboard the Ann Powell Express Train. Despite the brisk late March weather, spirits remained high as the group enjoyed a leisurely ride through the charming streets. The tour showcased Smithville’s notable attractions, including film locations from Hope Floats and Tree of Life, as well as hidden gems tucked away from the main thoroughfares. The slow pace offered a chance to appreciate the grand old trees, unique architecture, and the welcoming residents who waved as the train passed by.
Lunch at Fat Cat and Community Connections
Following the tour, the group enjoyed a hearty lunch at Fat Cat. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance, adorned with vibrant local art, encouraged lively conversation among participants as they waited for their meals. This relaxed setting offered the perfect opportunity to continue building connections and share reflections on the day’s insights.
In the afternoon, the class reconvened at the First National Bank of Smithville for a presentation by Janis Bruno and Alan Butler from the Career Tracks Workforce Training Center. Originally known as Smithville Workforce Solutions, the center now serves the entire county and plays a crucial role in training and workforce development. Bruno and Butler detailed the center’s initiatives to equip residents with practical job skills and trade training, explaining how programs are developed and funded to meet the region’s growing workforce needs. They also discussed the importance of adaptability and innovation in crafting training programs that match local economic demands.
Aviation Insights at Smithville-Crawford Municipal Airport
The final stop of the day landed the class at the Smithville-Crawford Municipal Airport. It was fascinating to learn about the airport’s background and how they shifted their model to begin generating revenue through lowering fuel prices which made them a destination landing spot for the surrounding area. Sandy Meyerson, the Airport Operations Manager, offered an in-depth look at the airport’s role in the community, highlighting the importance of municipal aviation and its economic impact. Participants were especially intrigued by the real-time flight tracking screen and the discussion on how strategic changes have helped the airport thrive.
Reflecting on Smithville’s Leadership and Legacy
By the end of the day, the class had a growing awareness of the importance and complexities of local government, economic development issues in the community, and how these factors impact residents. Many left with a renewed desire to stay informed and get involved in the governance of their communities. One key takeaway from the day was the recognition of how interconnected economic development and local governance are, and how thoughtful leadership can make a meaningful difference.
Session 6 offered a thoughtful blend of leadership insights, historical exploration, and community pride, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. As the B.E.S.T. Leadership Class continues its journey, the lessons from Smithville serve as a reminder of the power of collaboration, innovation, and dedication in shaping the future of Bastrop County.
A+ Federal Credit Union
Airrosti Bastrop
All About You Heating & Air
Amazing Floors
Anita’s Mexican Restaurant****
Architectural Installations
Argent Court Assisted Living
Bastrop Area Cruisers
Bastrop Rides
BridgeField Group
Brown Distributing Co.**
Business Outside the Box Inc.
Calvary Episcopal Church
Calvary Episcopal School
Children’s Advocacy Center Bastrop,
Lee and Fayette Counties
Chris M. Dillon, Lawyer
City of Bastrop Police Department
Community Gardens Realty
Covert Chevrolet-Buick-GMC
Down Home Ranch, Inc
Film Alley Bastrop
First United Methodist Church
Friends of the Bastrop Public Library
GOGO Charters Austin
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church***
Gracepoint Homes
GSB Fundraising*
Guadalajara Restaurant
Heart of Texas Church of Christ
HomeCare of Central Texas
Janis Penick, Broker Associate - Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty
John Kirkland
Joseph Beal***
KAM FAB LLC
Kana Real Estate LLC****
Kenneth W. Kesselus
Leo’s Italian Grill
Lost Pines Maids
Lowe’s Home Improvement
McDade Watermelon Festival Association
Murphy’s Steakhouse LLC
Pyramid Pest Solutions, LLC
Quality Inn
Redbird Law PLLC
Reliant Plumbing
Revolutionary Roofing & Restoration
Roadhouse-Bastrop
Select Deconstruction & Demolition
Stanberry Realtors***
Tammy Miller
The Boring Company
Travis Chiropractic Center**
ULock-It Storage**
Urban Beauty Bastrop
Willow Riverside Retreat and Event Center
Zip Lost Pines
