October Monthly Newsletter by Bastrop Chamber of Commerce

October is a special month for chambers of commerce across our state and nation. This year, Texas Chamber of Commerce Week will be celebrated October 13–17, 2025, with National Chamber of Commerce Day falling right in the middle on October 15. These annual observances provide us with the opportunity to highlight the impact of chambers of commerce and to recognize the work being done each day to strengthen communities, foster economic vitality, and serve as the Voice of Business.

For me, it’s also a moment to pause and reflect on the work we do here at the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce and the countless ways our Chamber connects, supports, and advocates for the people who make our community thrive.

Why Chambers of Commerce Matter

Chambers of Commerce are among the oldest and most trusted business organizations in the world. The first chamber in America dates back to 1768 in New York, and since then chambers have been at the forefront of building prosperous communities. At our core, chambers are about three things:

1. Advocacy – giving businesses a unified voice on issues that affect their ability to grow and succeed.

2. Connection – creating opportunities for people to meet, collaborate, and build relationships that fuel innovation and prosperity.

3. Education and Support – equipping business leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate a rapidly changing economy. Here in Bastrop County, our Chamber embodies each of these roles while tailoring them to the unique character of our region. We are not a government agency or social club; we are a member-driven business organization committed to improving the quality of life for everyone who lives and works here.

The Bastrop Chamber of Commerce Difference

When people ask me what makes the Bastrop Chamber stand out, I always point to our members. Our membership is broad and diverse, ranging from large employers to small, family-owned businesses, from non-profits and educators to entrepreneurs just starting out. That diversity reflects the fabric of Bastrop itself and allows us to truly represent the heartbeat of the community.

Over the past year, we have taken on important initiatives to serve our members and residents, including:

Business Advocacy: Whether it’s monitoring legislative developments in Austin or working with our city leaders here at home, the Chamber ensures that the voice of business is always heard. Policies ontaxation, workforce development, infrastructure, and housing directly impact our ability to grow, and we never take our role as advocates lightly.

Networking & Connections: Our luncheons, ribbon cuttings, summits, and community events provide spaces for people to connect in meaningful ways. Business growth often begins with a handshake, and the Chamber is proud to facilitate those first introductions.

Community Development: Beyond business, we are invested in the overall prosperity of Bastrop. From supporting education through partnerships with Bastrop ISD to encouraging civic engagement, we know that a thriving community is good for business and vice versa.

Leadership Programs: Through hallmark initiatives like our B.E.S.T. Leadership Program, we’re equipping the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and skills to guide this community into the future.

Celebrating Success: We believe in shining a light on the achievements of our businesses. Whether through awards, spotlights, or promotional opportunities, the Chamber makes sure our local businesses are recognized for the incredible work they do.

Sometimes the impact of a chamber is best seen in action. Consider these examples from right here in Bastrop:

• When a small business owner needs guidance on expanding operations, the Chamber connects them with resources.

• When new companies look at locating in our area, they often call the Chamber first to learn about the business climate and community.

• When our community faces challengeswhether economic shifts, natural disasters, or workforce shortages - the Chamber is at the table, helping to develop solutions.

This behind-the-scenes work doesn’t always make headlines, but it is the backbone of community progress.

Why We Celebrate

Texas Chamber of Commerce Week and National Chamber of Commerce Day remind us that this work is worth celebrating. They give us the chance to honor the businesses that invest in our Bastrop Chamber and to highlight the partnerships that keep communities like Bastrop strong.

I like to think of it this way: every time you attend a Chamber event, display your membership plaque, or connect with another business through us, you’re contributing to something bigger. You’re helping to build a community that is resilient, forward-thinking, and welcoming. That’s worth pausing to acknowledge.

This year, as we celebrate, I encourage our members and residents to take a moment to reflect on how the Chamber has touched their own lives. Maybe it was through an introduction that led to new business, a leadership program that changed your career path, or simply the knowledge that your Chamber was advocating for you at the Capitol. Whatever the story, it’s part of the bigger narrative of why chambers of commerce continue to matter.

Looking Ahead

While these special observances happen just one week a year, the truth is that our work is year-round. As Bastrop continues to grow and evolve, so will our

Chamber. We’re preparing for a future that embraces both the opportunities and challenges of being a dynamic, fast-growing community in Central Texas.

That means continuing to:

Invest in workforce development so our busi nesses can thrive.

Support infrastructure improvements to keep pace with growth.

Advocate for policies that encourage innova tion and entrepreneurship.

Strengthen partnerships with local govern ment, schools, and non-profits.

The story of Bastrop is still being written, and the Chamber is proud to help lead the way.

As we mark Texas Chamber of Commerce Week and National Chamber of Commerce Day, I want to extend my gratitude to every business and individual who makes up the Bastrop Chamber family. Your investment in the Chamber is an investment in the future of our community.

Together, we are proving that when businesses and communities work hand in hand, there’s no limit to what can be achieved.

So, the next time you drive by a ribbon cutting, attend a Chamber luncheon, or see our Chamber Team out in the community, I hope you feel a sense of pride. Because the Chamber isn’t just an office on Main Street, it’s all of us, working together for the betterment of the Bastrop region.

Here’s to celebrating chambers everywhere—and to the bright future we are building right here at home!

Mark your calendars:

• Texas Chamber of Commerce Week – October 13–17, 2025

• National Chamber of Commerce Day – October 15, 2025

Veterans and active-duty military personnel are invited to attend the Bastrop Military and Veteran Luncheon free of charge as a way of honoring their service and sacrifice. This complimentary attendance allows the community to show appreciation while providing veterans with an opportunity to connect, be recognized, and enjoy a special event dedicated to them.

The Bastrop Chamber of Commerce’s October Luncheon brought timely conversation to the forefront as members and community leaders gathered to hear an update on Austin Water’s Aquifer Storage & Recovery (ASR) Project. The program highlighted one of the most pressing issues facing our region—how to balance being a good neighbor to Austin while planning for our communi-

ty’s future water needs. An Austin Water representative, Shay Roalson, shared details on the project, which is part of the City of Austin’s 100-year “Water Forward” plan. The goal of the ASR project is to store treated drinking water deep underground in one of Bastrop’s Aquifers (as of April 2025, the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer) during wet years, and then recover it during droughts or times of scarcity. This method helps reduce evaporative losses that happen with surface reservoirs and creates a reliable long-term supply. Austin Water clarified several misconceptions during the luncheon, including concerns that the project would draw down native groundwater or capture stormwater. Instead, the water injected into the aquifer would

be treated drinking water from Austin’s system, with state rules requiring that no more water can be withdrawn than was originally stored.

Shay also addressed community concerns about well impacts, land use, and water quality. Testing and pilot studies are currently underway to better understand how injected water interacts with native groundwater. Austin Water noted that buffer zones and monitoring are part of the planning process, with open houses and stakeholder agreements being developed to ensure more transparency with Bastrop residents.

The conversation was not one-sided. Mayor Pro Tem, John Kirkland, firmly expressed his opposition to the project moving forward, echoing many of the concerns that have been raised at Bastrop City Council meetings and among residents. His stance highlighted the ongoing debate over whether Austin should be pursuing such a large-scale project in Bastrop County.

allowing for meaningful back-andforth with project leaders. This exchange helped provide both clarity and accountability, reinforcing the Chamber’s role in connecting the community with decision-makers.

The ASR project is still in its exploratory stages. Austin Water is conducting geological and groundwater studies while drafting agreements with local governments and stakeholders. Meanwhile, state-level debates and legislative efforts, such as a recent bill aimed at blocking injection wells, underscore just how closely this project is being watched.

Community interest in the topic was clear. The Chamber provided the opportunity for the community to submit questions befor the luncheon, to be answered by the speakers. Attendees also had the chance to ask questions directly,

The October Luncheon demonstrated the importance of open dialogue, where both technical information and community concerns can be heard in the same room. While Austin Water continues to present its case for securing future water supply, Bastrop residents are ensuring their voices are not left out of the conversation. The Chamber remains committed to hosting these discussions and keeping our members and community informed as the project develops.

Click here to watch the discussion in full on the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce YouTube Channel.

article by Kornyan Bailey, Communication and Media Manager

On Thursday, September 18, the 2025 B.E.S.T. Leadership Class kicked off its journey with Session 1, an engaging introduction to leadership and team building. Hosted at the Smithville Recreation Center, this first session set the stage for the months ahead—introducing participants to one another, laying the foundation for collaboration, and beginning the work of defining what leadership means to this year’s class. Facilitated by Dominica McGinnis, an executive leadership coach and CEO of Bridgefield Group, and Becki Womble, the President of the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce, the day was a blend of thoughtful discussion, interactive activities, and meaningful connection.

Defining Guiding Leadership Principles

One of the day’s core activities centered on identifying the guiding leadership principles that would shape the class’s experience. Through group discussion and reflection, participants selected the values that best represented their shared vision for leadership. The final list—empathy and compassion, integrity, delegation, self-awareness, accountability, problem solving, communication, continuous learning, and resilience—captures the heart of effective leadership and will serve as a compass throughout the program.

The class also began early discussions about their community project, considering several creative options before expressing strong interest in developing a student leadership program. While plans remain in progress, participants were enthusiastic about creating a project that would have a lasting impact on future generations.

Building Confidence and Connection

From the opening “Getting to Know You” activities to structured team-building exercises, Session 1 emphasized connection and collaboration. Participants gained valuable experience and confidence in public speaking, while also learning more about each other’s leadership styles and strengths. These shared moments helped transform a group of individuals into a cohesive, supportive team ready to learn and grow together.

In between activities, the class enjoyed informal networking opportunities, including a group lunch at Pocket’s Grille, where conversation and camaraderie flourished. The relaxed environment offered a chance to continue building relationships beyond the classroom setting.

Laying the Foundation for Growth

By day’s end, participants left with a clearer sense of purpose, a shared set of guiding principles, and the beginnings of a class project that reflects their collective vision. With a focus on self-awareness, accountability, and continuous learning, the group is well-positioned to develop as leaders who can make a positive impact in their organizations and communities.

As the B.E.S.T. Leadership journey continues, Session 1 will be remembered as the first step in building not only leadership skills but also lasting connections among emerging leaders and influencers across Bastrop County.

The second annual State of BISD Lunch, held on October 8, 2025, drew a significantly larger audience than last year and highlighted the district’s impressive achievements. The well-organized event began in the auditorium with a wonderful performance by BISD students, filled with music and dance that transported the audience to the vibrant, sun-drenched landscapes of Mexico. After the performance, attendees moved into two breakout rooms, where the program was packed full of informative sessions about the district’s progress, initiatives, and opportunities.

The Chamber extends its sincere thanks to the Investor Sponsors: Bartlett Cocke General Contractors, Bastrop Independent School District, and Commissioner David Glass; and the Partner Sponsors: Bastrop County Cares, Dillon Law, Empire Homes–Adleton Community, SWTC Career Tracks, and The Farmhouse Kitchen. Their support helps make events

During the lunch, attendees learned that Bastrop ISD has made remarkable progress in education, recently jumping 10 points in its state accountability rating, putting it among the top 25% of Texas districts to achieve a full letter-grade increase. This accomplishment reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to strengthening teaching and learning outcomes for all students.

A key focus of Bastrop ISD is supporting its youngest learners. By building a strong foundation early, the district is helping students develop essential skills, close learning gaps, and improve achievement, contributing to a six-point gain in the student achievement domain of the state accountability system.

Technology and personalized learning remain central to the district’s strategy. Through the Boot Up one-to-one technology initiative, every sixth through twelfth grade student receives a Chromebook for school and home use. This initiative fosters tech-rich, individualized learning environments while teaching safe and responsible digital citizenship.

ed, accelerated interventions, and dyslexia services, help all students reach their potential, resulting in a 21-point improvement in the closing gaps domain, equivalent to a two-letter-grade increase.

Industry partnerships enhance real-world opportunities for students. The district collaborates with TCS Mechanical and Acutronic Aerospace Components, allowing students to gain hands-on experience, soft skills, and workplace training. As part of the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-Tech) program, students in the Acutronic Apprenticeship Alliance (A³) learn alongside Acutronic journeyman technicians, earn certifications, and accumulate up to 2,000 on-the-job training hours.

Earlier this year, in April 2025, the first three Bastrop ISD students hired by Acutronic through the apprenticeship program were announced, with a recognition celebration on May second. Additional students, including sophomores recommitting and new freshmen joining the A³ program, were also honored. Those interested in learning more about the program can visit Here.

Bastrop ISD is also preparing students for college, technical school, workforce readiness, and military service. Expanded academic offerings and career pathways led to a 29-point gain in college, career, and military readiness scores. Inclusive programs, including dual language, gifted and talent-

The 2025 accountability results reflect curriculum improvements, innovative programs, and the dedication and hard work of Bastrop ISD teachers and students. Moving forward, the district continues to provide strong instruction, interactive learning, technology integration, and opportunities tailored to diverse student needs.

Bastrop ISD is on a mission — and its momentum, partnerships, and student-centered initiatives demonstrate it isn’t stopping anytime soon.

an initiative of the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce Governmental Affairs Committee

Kornyan Bailey, Communication and Media Manager