Wilco Business Review • First Issue • May 2021

CONTENTS FIVE QUESTIONS

08

OVERHEARD

14

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

25

BUSINESS BRIEFS

28

12

05 20

26 FEATURED

ON THE COVER

Recovery from 2020 and growth in 2021 have created the perfect storm for the Williamson County real estate market.

10 05 09 10 15

All rights reserved.

The Wilco Business Review is published monthly and mailed to C-level executives, business owners, policy makers, and community leaders in Williamson County, Texas and surrounding areas.

Mail may be sent to: Wilco Business Review P.O. Box 213 Jarrell, TX 76537 info@wilcobr.com Wilco Business Review is a Fidelis Publishing Group, LLC publication.

Copyright © 2021

16 20 22 26

BUSINESS

GREX Becomes Loram Technologies

CULTURE

Building Community Through Art & Architecture in Taylor

REAL ESTATE

The Curious Case of Williamson County Real Estate

LOCATIONS

Hutto: Homey, Hip & High-Tech

CAREER & TECH

The Vision for Career & Tech Education in Texas

INDUSTRY

If It’s Not A Longhorn, It’s Just A Cow

RECREATION & TOURISM

Dell Diamond: Keeping America’s Pastime Alive

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

From The County Judge Preview Edition

WILCO BUSINESS REVIEW

03

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FROM THE

PUBLISHERS

The Gold Standard in Business News

Published Monthly

Publishers

Michael Payne Catherine Payne Executive Editor Ann Marie Kennon Senior Writer Charlotte Kovalchuk Editorial Writers Megan Freedman · Greta Bauer Megan Beatty Community Liaisons Janet Hage · Camy Reynolds Columnist Ben Lake Video Reporter Lauren Mynarcik Videography Todd White Photography David Valdez · Rudy Ximenez · Todd White Digital Media Director Jenny Campbell Graphics Zion Zobell-Pistole Account Services Debbie Tolliver Distribution David Schumacher IT/Webmaster Jesse Payne Consultant W. Ben Daniel Information and Marketing

“The happiest time in any man’s life is when he is in red-hot pursuit of a dollar with a reasonable prospect of overtaking it,” penned American columnist Josh Williams (1818-1885). This statement is epitomized here in Williamson County, Texas, where the economy is burgeoning with the explosive force of a tsunami. Deal after deal, company after company have targeted Williamson County and central Texas as ground zero for creation, expansion, or relocation.

This unprecedented growth is the reason the Wilco Business Review was created. This monthly print and online publication will provide a look at the trajectory of the Williamson County business environment, leading to more successful and synergistic decision-making processes. No longer will Williamson County and central Texas businesses have to settle for being sidebar stories or have their data included in a footnote in metro publications. As one of the top-ten counties in America in numerous business categories, the time has come to have a dedicated resource featuring local businesses, government, healthcare, law, and politics.

We are fully aware that Williamson County is not an island. Austin is an integral and vital part of our success, and the Wilco Business Review is committed to examining the important issues that intersect our border to the south. Additionally, due to the radial nature of economic growth, as Bell County expands southward, the impact will be felt here in Williamson County. The Wilco Business Review will provide a comprehensive analysis of the entire region’s rapidly expanding economic scene, including notable business news and events from the smaller, but growing rural communities in Williamson County.

What you can expect: The Wilco Business Review • is mailed to C-level executives, business owners, manufacturers, community leaders, market investors, legislators & policy makers and other influencers; • includes facts, figures, and statistics, as well as analysis, trends, commentary, and insightful articles by experts in multiple sectors, including business, investment, finance, real estate, tech, healthcare, government and leadership, and emerging industries; • utilizes both local and national writers and experts to keep you informed of trends and issues that impact our county; • provides a digital platform for daily updates along with the monthly print publication; • offers a valuable and effective B2B marketing reach; • is dedicated to community engagement and stewarding the responsibility that accompanies the trust and confidence our readers place in us.

Senior Advertising Executive Mark Elliott 512.240.2267 | 512.746.4545 mark@wilcobr.com

We look forward to beginning this exciting journey with you. Enjoy this first issue and watch the Wilco Business Review grow in size, content, reach, and impact!

Michael Payne

Catherine Payne

BUSINESS

GREX Becomes Loram Technologies After 2018 Acquisition Charlotte Kovalchuk

T

charlotte@wilcobr.com

he Georgetown Rail Equipment Company (GREX) became Loram Technologies January 1 following an acquisition designed to expand both companies’ innovative railroad services and transform how railroads maintain their tracks.

GREX had just celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2018 when it was sold to global railroad maintenance company Loram Maintenance of Way. Loram Technologies President Greg Grissom says the move combined similar business cultures, gave GREX more access to capital, and accelerated new product development.

Loram Maintenance of Way’s goal in joining forces with GREX was to build on GREX’s successful track inspection and maintenance technology.

In 1993, a time when technology was transforming industries, Ned Snead founded GREX and invented the DumpTrain aggregate delivery system, which can deliver more than 2,000 tons of ballast per hour with a single operator. GREX is also known for creating Aurora, a 3-D track inspection system that uses laser technology and cameras to spot track and tie flaws before they cause problems. Another innovation, GateSync, enables fully automated ballast delivery.

“GREX had a strong industry reputation for delivering maintenance solutions for railroads,” Grissom says. “The vision behind Loram Technologies Inc. is to build on GREX’s successful railroad technology solutions while harmonizing Loram’s mergers and acquisitions activity over the last several years. By aligning global software, data, and engineering teams, we will accelerate new product development and bring our railroad customers the very best in next generation technology products and field services.”

“What you’re seeing with this facility is another step in significant investment in Georgetown that will continue to grow. Our long-range plan shows great growth and along with that comes many new jobs and recurring investment in this area.” ~GREG GRISSOM After integrating with Loram over the last three years, GREX changed its name to Loram Technologies in January. In addition to continuing to develop innovative rail maintenance technology, Loram envisions a new headquarters at 111 Cooperative Way in Georgetown that will consolidate its manufacturing shops currently in Jarrell and Georgetown. The facility is expected to open in mid-2023. “We are excited to be home to this research and manufacturing facility in Georgetown,” Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder says. “Expanding on the innovation of GREX, a homegrown rail technology company started by Ned Snead, is great. This center adds highly skilled jobs in our community and keeps us on track to strengthen our economy.”

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BUSINESS CONTINUED

at its new headquarters office and manufacturing facility in Georgetown

Loram Technologies, Inc. expects to employ

310 PEOPLE Including

150 NEW POSITIONS

$17 M in the center with an average salary of

The company expects to invest

$60,000

Loram Technologies currently has approximately

With 250,000 miles of railroads across North America and parent company Loram Maintenance of Way based in Minnesota, Grissom notes the new Georgetown center is ideally located.

“It’s a geographical advantage to have a facility in central Texas south and one in Hamel, Minnesota to support our efforts in the field, providing cutting edge maintenance solutions for railroads,” he says.

Loram Technologies serves rail customers around the world, including major railroads in the U.S. and Canada – Union Pacific Railroad, BNSF Railway, Canadian National Railway, Canadian Pacific Railway, Kansas City Southern Railway, Norfolk Southern Railway, CSX Transportation, and Amtrak. Locally, the new facility plans to interchange with the Georgetown Railroad, which is used to transport limestone from the Texas Crushed Stone quarry in Georgetown and Round Rock.

COUNTY BUSINESS

200 EMPLOYEES LOCALLY Loram Maintenance of Way is headquartered in

Hamel, Minnesota

with

and supplies track maintenance equipment and services for freight railroads, transit systems, and commuter railroads

6 GLOBAL OFFICES

Loram Maintenance of Way has

1,400 EMPLOYEES WORLDWIDE.

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After 40 years of serving Williamson County, District Clerk Lisa David doesn’t plan to slow down anytime soon. “I never thought that I would be over half my life serving in Williamson County, and it’s been an honor,” Lisa says. “The 40 years have passed by, and I’ve been on this journey and I’m not ready for it to end, so I really want to continue to serve as long as the citizens will allow me to be here.”

The Williamson County Commissioners Court honored Lisa for her 40 years of service at its April 27 meeting. She started working in the district clerk’s office in 1981 as deputy district clerk and assistant chief deputy before being elected as district clerk in 2006. She was honored as District Clerk of the Year by the County and District Clerks’ Association of Texas in 2018.

FIVE QUESTIONS

FIVE

1

What are some of the things Taylor residents can brag about that also bring people from all over Williamson County to visit or live?

Our historic downtown is teeming with unique restaurants, bars, vintage and antique shops, and boutique retail. For recreation, we have our world-class downtown skate park or any number of options in our 250+ acres of beautiful parkland, including a challenging disc golf course, all connected by a continuous trail system throughout. And for a one-of-a-kind mixed-use development, there’s Old Taylor High, a 1920s-era school building situated on a seven-acre campus in the heart of the city, home to a craft beer house and garden, a pinball lounge, a New York style deli, and a casual sit-down table service restaurant offering classic American fare with a Southern twist, among other tenants.

WITH TAYLOR MAYOR BRANDT RYDELL

QUESTIONS

2

How are the housing starts / development numbers shaping up for 2021?

Through March of 2021 the City issued 101 new single-family permits.

During the same period in 2020 the City issued 33 permits. 2021 is shaping up to have the highest permit volumes the City has ever seen.

Do you have data reflecting a growth of total appraised value?

Property values in Taylor increased more than 16 percent in the past year. Over that time, we saw 167 new residential improvements, seven new commercial improvements, and $35.5 million in new improvement value added.

4

3

Talk about the challenges overcome and successes in Taylor with COVID management and winter storm Uri recovery.

With both COVID and Uri, we resolved open and honest communication was key. Beginning in March 2020, I provided daily COVID updates via social media with the best and most current information I was receiving from public health professionals at the state and county level.

During Uri, we implemented an aggressive communication plan ensuring the people of Taylor received the most up-to-date information the City had as soon as we could deliver it, prompting a national news correspondent to remark, “I’ve covered a lot of storms and natural disasters, but I don’t think I’ve seen a government explain something as (Taylor) did. One of the clearest, transparent explanations I’ve seen a local government give their constituents.”

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5

What businesses and industries are perfect for Taylor recruitment or relocation to the city?

Taylor is fortunate to have proactive and experienced staff at both City Hall and with the Taylor Economic Development Corporation. Home to one of the largest opportunity zones in Central Texas, as well as being a new market tax credit zone, Taylor has a range of competitively priced sites of varying size.

Robust infrastructure, including road networks and heavy electric power available in a deregulated area, makes Taylor a particularly attractive location for business and industry.

CULTURE

BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH

&

Charlotte Kovalchuk charlotte@wilcobr.com

M

any folks have had a hand shaping Taylor into the growing destination town it is today, whether through business development, historic building renovation, or arts and culture contribution. In Judy Blundell’s case, it is all of the above. It was her vision and Mark Nibbelink’s courage that drove the renovation of the McCrory Timmerman building that breathed new life into the downtown. Thanks in part to Judy’s artistic efforts, Taylor has also become a vibrant creative hub.

A Wisconsin native and later Australia resident, Judy attended the University of Texas in Austin, where she received her bachelor’s in studio art. In 2002, she bought an old farm and its surrounding land from her uncle and laid down roots just outside Taylor. She originally planned to establish a painting studio in Austin, but affordable housing and an established art community drew her to Taylor. “The last 10 years have seen a strong migration of visual, literary, and musical artists from Austin to smaller towns like Taylor,” Judy says. She and four other artists share her studio space on Main Street, Atelier 95, which has a creative energy that has made it a focal point for the local arts community.

Another home for her work is the McCrory Timmerman building, the setting of another one of her passions—architectural design.

DOWNTOWN REBIRTH Taylor has a wealth of beautiful historic buildings that sat mostly unused for years, just waiting for a renaissance. When Judy and her business partner, Mark, decided to turn one of those buildings into loft apartments and retail, office, and artist space, their renovation did more than just bring an old, vacant department store back to life. Seven other historic structures

followed suit, and empty downtown shop fronts and barren streetscapes came alive with clothing shops, music stores, cafes, coffee bars, wine bars, live music venues, and furniture and home goods stores. “This is how a community is reborn,” Judy says.

And it’s not slowing down anytime soon. Taylor is experiencing a strong influx of 25- to 35-year-olds who are starting families and businesses, along with film directors, musicians, and artists. Together they have created a thriving entertainment scene. The newly formed Taylor Arts Advisory Board and gallery 120ART, now a nonprofit, are also planning art projects to enrich the community. Recently, local architect Doug Moss spearheaded the Painted Piano project and commissioned several artists to paint pianos, after which pianists were brought in to play during opening night. Another project in the works, the Wonderland project, will be a street art venture based on Alice in Wonderland theories. Judy will join three other artists creating artwork in the alley behind the Titsworth and McCrory buildings.

TAYLOR LEGACY Judy likes to compare her Taylor experience to her Australia one. After a decade of living in Sydney, she moved to a community called Arcadia that showed her the benefits of the small-town lifestyle, with its sense of space far outweighing the “manic need” to keep up with the urban experience. She is thankful to have found that same lifestyle in Taylor. “As Taylor moves forward, I hope we continue to foster local businesses and sustainable industry,” Judy says. “I hope that we can remain focused upon quality over quantity, and that the work of those who are taking a chance on Taylor now will pay off as a rich legacy for generations to come.”

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CASE THE CURIOUS

Of Williamson County Real Estate Even before the U.S. Census announced more people are coming to Texas than leaving, it should surprise no one that Central Texas is the hottest housing market in the nation. With the combination of extremely low inventory and interest rates still at near historic lows, 2021 continues to be a strong year for Williamson County, and quite lucrative for those able to make the choice to sell.

NEW CONSTRUCTION County Judge Bill Gravell shared data from the Chief Appraiser that show, despite pandemic conditions, a 28 percent increase in residential completions in 2020, and the largest-ever number of projects finished in one year. “The smartest decision we made last Spring was to allow commercial, road, and residential construction to continue during the lockdown period. Our builders and developers completed 10,313 new homes in 2020, which was 2,183 more than in the previous year.”

The appraised value of all new 2020 homes, commercial and industrial property, and improvements increased Williamson County’s property values by $17.5 billion, to $110.5 billion. Judge Gravell says, “We are the hottest housing market in America because we did not do what Austin did and shut down. We allowed people to work and businesses to thrive.”

WILLIAMSON COUNTY’S

MOST EXCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT

THE CANYONS AT HCH RANCH PAGE 12

Along with higher prices is the increase in the necessity and value of appraisal waivers.

The rapid acceleration of home prices over the past six months have created a bottleneck of appraisals due to a lack of data. “With homes selling within days, or even hours,” Lombar says, “buyers are offering waivers of many contingencies in order to secure their bids. As the market trajectory begins to level off, data will emerge that will help buyers bring less money to the table to close appraisal gaps.”

The Judge notes, while Central Texas is in the top regional spot, trending spots like Liberty Hill, Sonterra, and Santa Rita Ranch, specifically, are in the top five developments in the nation. As his billion-dollar business development deals continue to stack up, employees will follow, necessitating a market like ours that maintains the depth and breadth of beautiful lifestyle choices for entry- to C-level salaries.

THE MARKET SHIFT

Figures indicate the 2021 real estate market in Williamson County has been one of the most Texas has been a popular retirement desti- competitive in memory, and factors carrying nation for decades. In 2021, thanks to political over from 2020 show the trends are not likely to climate, actual climate, and business-friendly change any time soon. As pandemic restricleadership, Williamson County is now a desti- tions continue, and employers recognize the REAL ESTATE nation for the world. Judge Gravell explains, convenience—and savings—of telecommuting, workers continue to migrate away from city cenBest of Wilco Team Leader Kiersty Lombar “In this [conference] room, we are meeting with people from around the globe who want ters they no longer have to work in or drive to. has been in the top 3 percent for Keller to do business in Williamson County. They Williams worldwide for the past five years.

Add to this the lack of supply in built-out She says figures indicate the change brought are coming thanks to the excellence of our submarkets closer to the city. While the inventory work force, high standards of construction about by this extraordinary market affects of undeveloped lots is very high, the record everything from starter homes to million-dollar and housing, great schools and safety records, low home inventory has caused developers properties. “Everyone is getting multiple offers and enhanced quality of life. We are taking to struggle to keep up with demand. As well, that message to national and international on their homes. I no longer have $200,000 new demographics suggest Millennials do not businesses who will bring production and clients because those prices don’t exist. My consider the American dream to be a big lot in manufacturing back to American shores. This a specific part of town. Quality of life has shifted million-dollar buyers and sellers are also seeing multiple offers and competition. This is contributes to our local prosperity as well as to toward amenities, good schools, leisure and national security.” happening at is all levels of the market.”

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WHAT IS COMING

Ann Marie Kennon

REAL ESTATE

annmarie@wilcobr.com recreation opportunities, and good design, which is more available in locations previously thought to be “too far out.”

Lombar says some change is—and is not—related to COVID. “Compared to this time last year, people are feeling much more confident going out into the market. I’ve seen changes from as recent as 90 days, which corresponds with significant vaccine rollout. The downside of that is that some may be getting creative with the math. If we want a truly authentic picture of growth, we have to look at year-over-year numbers with the understanding that last year was an exception; i.e., anyone claiming 40 percent growth over 2020 numbers should also show you their 2019 numbers for comparison.”

In addition to lesser demand for proximity, the need for more flexible living spaces and lifestyle shift, and historic lows in inventory, many are realizing the choice is there to sell at great profit and upgrade their living spaces. Those with capacity to do so are considering real estate options they would never have considered before, which indicates a strong market for luxury real estate.

NOT JUST BUYERS AND SELLERS The home market is affecting synchronous markets as well. As purchase prices increase, the rental market is following close behind.

Lombar explains, “Leases will certainly go up while so many people are looking for a place to live during times of transition; i.e., when entering the workforce, while a new home is being built, or while they save more to accommodate higher down payment requirements. When you look at median and average sales prices, the [Austin regional] market has been undervalued for some time and those prices are aggressively correcting. Leases will also correct and follow.”

She says this trend reflects a little good news for investors who recognize some buyers are being priced out of the market and will, accordingly, resort to leases. “Many investors are willing to bid high on available properties and looking at how low, proportionally, Austin metro leases have been, the lease market will also correct itself accordingly.”

MARKET PROSPECTS Industry experts expect things will not go back to the way they were before, but they do expect the market to even out over the next two years as supply catches up with demand.

“Despite strong buyer traffic, builders continue to face challenges to add much needed housing supply to the market,” said NAHB Chairman Chuck Fowke in a statement. “The supply chain for residential construction is tight, particularly regarding the cost and availability of lumber, appliances, and other building materials. Though builders are seeking to keep home prices affordable in a market in need of more inventory, policymakers must find ways to increase the supply of building materials as the economy runs hot in 2021.”

“It is about inventory,” Lombar says, “rather than money. Due to pandemic conditions, we have a shortage of lumber supply and talent available to builders. Getting workers back online in logging and construction operations is not just as simple as getting back into

the driver’s seat. As well, there are stopgaps across the production process with permitting and resources. As developers find that it is taking longer than usual to get through the contracts and permits, the personnel involved get overwhelmed. It will just take a while for all of that to unwind.”

The Austin Homebuilders Association reports the significant increase in residential housing demand, combined with lumber suppliers unable to keep up with demand, has added an average of $24,000 to the price of an average volume-built home in the region. For custom homes, the cost is closer to $60,000, as price surges from trades and suppliers continue to add significant increases to the bottom line.

HOUSING INVENTORY Historically, the Austin Metro market has 6 months of inventory.

This is considered balanced and allows buyers and sellers to be on an equal footing.

• May 1 Austin Metro 0.27 months • Williamson County 0.2 months.

“Months’ supply” refers to the number of months it would take for the current inventory of homes on the market to sell given the current sales pace. Six months of supply is associated with moderate price appreciation, and a lower level of months’ supply tends to push prices up more rapidly. In December 2020, the national supply was at a record low of 1.9 months, meaning that at the current sales pace it would take just 1.9 months for housing inventory to be depleted.

This is down from the 2.3-month figure recorded the month prior (November 2020), and from the 3-month figure a year earlier in December 2019. ~National Association of Realtors

WHO IS COMING The Austin Homebuilders Association anticipates 100 people per day will make the Austin area their home in 2021. While the population of Texas is on the rise from coastal states and regions, many local home sales are due to Texans elsewhere in the state moving to the Hill Country and Central region.

Neighborhood

% For Sale

Median Listing Price

Rate of Foreclosure

Austin Buda Cedar Park Georgetown Hutto Kyle Leander Pflugerville Round Rock San Marcos

1.39% 1.21 % 4.58% 5.56% 5.20% 1.32% 4.70% 1.15% 5.17% 1.05%

$343,325 $259,280 $296,767 $291,872 $222,720 $212,130 $239,799 $242,542 $265,340 $204,170

0.64% 0.00% 0.00% 0.16% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 1.93% 0.00% 0.00%

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REAL ESTATE CONTINUED

EXECUTIVE LIFESTYLE IN GEORGETOWN In step with homes frequently only seen in luxury magazines, The Canyons at HCH Ranch, which is breaking ground this month, will set a new standard above anything ever seen in Williamson County. Named for the original landowner, Homer Clinton Hawes, homeowners at The Canyons are afforded stunning views of actual canyons and miles of beautiful Hill Country scenery. At 1,000 feet elevation, the views from Georgetown all the way to Ronald Reagan Blvd. are unlike any in Central Texas.

The force behind this monumental project is developer and owner of Grand Endeavor Homes, Jimmy Jacobs, in partnership with Cody Hawes, Homer’s grandson. After developing the land purchase for more than a year, Jacobs is on schedule to break ground on Phase 1 construction early Summer 2021.

Georgetown City Councilmember Shawn Hood was pleased to vote to move the project forward and agrees The Canyons is a unique piece of property. “Timing is everything, and with the strength of the current market, this is the executive housing opportunity Georgetown has been looking for.”

“I have admired that piece of property for a long time; it has some of the finest views and topography in Georgetown.

Jimmy Jacobs has great vision and I think The Canyons will be the finest estate lot development not just in Georgetown but in all of Central Texas. He’s going to do something very special.” ~ Bob Brent, Georgetown Commercial Properties Hood has been pushing for Georgetown to build its first truly gated community and considers The Canyons a step in the right direction. “I don’t believe a city can openly talk about low-income housing without talking about executive housing in the same conversation. Executives bring business to our city, employ workers, and they too need a place to live. Fortunately, $2.5 million homes are becoming more commonplace in the Georgetown market, which is what The Canyons will yield. It is the perfect fit for the needs of those moving to Williamson County for business.”

The the only limitation on what this place can be is the imagination of those who choose to build here.”

THE COMMUNITY

When complete, the 364-acre property will be transformed into a private community of 186 homes on executive lots from one to five acres. Plans ensure the neighborhood will look and feel very secure; gated, with 8-foot walls and towers at the entrance, with infrastructure and landscaping to match.

Known for a hand-crafted and custom construction process that simplifies and enriches the home-building experience, Jacobs is overseeing the project, literally, from the ground up. Walking on the property—minimally cleared to retain old-growth trees and greenery—Jacobs says, “No matter who they are, or where they’ve lived, everyone who comes to see this property just says, ‘Wow!’ There are views here you won’t find anywhere else in Austin; there’s nothing else like it.

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Jay Warren, realtor and managing partner of Berkshire-Hathaway in Georgetown says, “If you want a quality-built home, Jimmy Jacobs and Grand Endeavor Homes is who you call. There is no better homebuilder in the area, and this project is very exciting and truly needed in Georgetown at this time. Starting with the fantastic topography, it is another great example of his exemplary products and projects.”

Jacobs expects to have lots ready for presale in the near future. Early indicators and buzz about the project have generated a long list of interested buyers. “Several hundred people have already inquired about the lots, many of them based simply on the history

of the property and description of the topography,” Jacobs adds. “We have many plans to choose from but everything we do is customizable. Buyers can expect to move in between eight months to a year from project start; bigger homes, perhaps up to two years.”

He adds, with respect to other luxury developments in the region, “The Canyons has an entirely different feel because we are starting with an exceptional plateau overlooking vistas rich with natural areas and wildlife. So, imagine the quality and culture of similar communities, but on a mountaintop; this is truly a one-of-a-kind property for Williamson County.”

Grand Endeavor has planned lot lines to conform, where possible, to the hillsides, so the area will retain a lot of its natural beauty for homeowners to enjoy, and owners will be able to complement their lots and homes with anything they choose.

Jacobs points to a spot on a shallow precipice, “I can see a partially-elevated swimming pool, with a negative edge, facing the western horizon and watching the sun set across ten miles of lush Hill Country.”

THE BOTTOM LINE Hood explains Grand Endeavor is moving forward at exactly the right time. “There is a shortage of lots, especially high-end units with a view in Georgetown, so this is a great solution. At the same time, the City is experiencing an industrial boom; more space is coming online with every new business we acquire.”

Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder agrees, “We have felt the need for a community like this for many years and what Jimmy Jacobs is building is not just a unique neighborhood, it is an economic development tool for Georgetown.”

“With the number of companies that are moving to our area, and those we want to recruit, not only can we promise great sites to relocate a business, we have the perfect place to relocate their executives as well.” ~ Josh Schroeder, Georgetown Mayor

THE CANYONS AT HCH

PHASE ONE

REAL ESTATE Where Georgetown used to be popular for retirement housing, it has since evolved to include destination housing. As restaurants, shopping, and leisure caught up with population growth, there is no longer any need to go anywhere else for the weekend or entertainment. Hood adds, “Many self-employed individuals and small businesses have realized they don’t want or have to live in Austin. Add to that the West Coast and Northeastern buyers who can live and work anywhere. They are choosing Texas, then Williamson County, and finally realizing the quality of life in Georgetown is right in line with what they are looking for.

Those are the executives who want $2.5 million homes but are craving the community that exists here. They want to be a part of that small-town feel, they will want to give back here, and when they do, they can rest assured they will have a substantial impact.”

Mayor Schroeder also shared praise for the builder, and the vision. “Some of our most successful builders are not just local, but home-grown. Jimmy Jacobs is one among several builders, including Bradley Cockrum and Chance Leigh, who grew up, went to school, and started successful businesses in our community. This is what we want to be; a place where entrepreneurs and business owners know they don’t have to go somewhere else to build a successful career. Jimmy Jacobs was the first person to sell a successful local home-building business, but then come right back to Georgetown and do it again.”

ENTRY

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OVERHEARD

WILLIAMSON’S

COUNTY

JUDGE BILL GRAVELL

I believe we will have vaccinated everybody that wants to be vaccinated in Williamson County by May 21st. I think our county has done an amazing job as best as we could with those that wanted to be vaccinated.

With more than 81% of the vote, Councilman Pitt’s reelection shows that the voters of Georgetown’s District 5 approve of the leadership, hard work and results he delivered for the city during the past three years.

I believe his efforts to communicate with his constituents through town halls and social media, especially during the ice storm, brought out the support of his supporters in record numbers.

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FORMER GEORGETOWN MAYOR

DALE ROSS

PRECINCT 1

COMMISSIONER

TERRY COOK

Despite the tolls on home budgets caused by the pandemic over the past 14 months; despite the hardships caused by the deep freeze, when the call for monetary assistance went out for the residents being evicted from the Townhomes at Double Creek due to water damage from that storm, the residents of Williamson and Travis County sent the Serving Center of Round Rock over $24,000 to fund the humanitarian efforts for these families.

Williamson County is a fast-growing and amazing place to live. How we as a County interact with our Cities and communities determines our future.

PRECINCT 4 COMMISSIONER

RUSS BOLES

HUTTO: HOMEY, HIP, AND HIGH-TECH While everyone works to attain balance in their personal lives, cities must do the same to maintain quality of life while they manage growth. The City of Hutto is no different.

Growing industrial and commercial sectors are bringing more people—necessitating more rooftops and increasing demand for retail, restaurants, and recreation.

Hutto leaders are also being intentional in recruiting more sit-down restaurant choices.

The city is already home to several fast-casual dining options, which were a good start but haven’t satisfied all palates especially among families and younger adults. “Millennials are buying homes farther from city centers,” such as in Hutto, Schmitt said. “They also have a preference for healthy choices and lifestyles.”

At the historic heart of Hutto’s growth is the downtown commercial district, with charming structures dating to the 1800s.

Parked cars often line East and Farley streets on any given day, as shops and restaurants attract locals and visitors alike. City Manager

annmarie@wilcobr.com

Warren Hutmacher is working to further enhance the downtown aesthetic to attract a differentiated mix of new businesses, Schmitt said. “We will begin a comprehensive land-use focused plan which will be a tool for our entire City, including the historic downtown.”

Hutto public information officer Stacy Not far from downtown Hutto Schmitt says the city is committed to respon- is the Co-Op District, a dynamsible, thoughtful growth. ic, mixed-use property being gradually developed. Standing as RESIDENTIAL an iconic reminder of the city’s agricultural While residential growth has boomed for roots, the Co-Op will eventually resume its some Hutto home buyers, the city is focused open-air markets and festivals that began on diversifying the available housing stock, before the pandemic. Both the Co-Op and Schmitt said. “We have put more entry-level downtown’s reconstructed Farley Street won and first-time homes online and are working state awards in recent years for outstanding on the market for those looking to upgrade,” public improvements. “We are focused on she said. “Our demographic is typically ensuring Hutto’s retail districts embrace married, educated, and dual income with the past while also welcoming the future,” children, so we are working with developers Schmitt said. “They are not only beautiful but to get those ‘next-level’ communities online. also progressive.”

A lot of our (residential) growth has been organic, and we are now being intentional INDUSTRY about balance, diversity, and a vision for the To maintain a good balance of business future.” growth, the city is preparing for the next

RESTAURANTS AND RETAIL

Ann Marie Kennon

phase of construction at Innovation Business Park, intended to attract light industrial and manufacturing companies. Ground is breaking next month on another corporation that chose to relocate to Hutto in order to accommodate its regional market and distribute products to customers faster. “We are looking for just the right projects that will be able to scale up their operations in that location,” Schmitt said. “For our megasite, 450 acres on Hwy. 79, we are not limited to manufacturing. The site may include research and development as well as distribution. Ideally, we will find a large anchor corporation, which will provide the need and resources for ancillary business to grow as well.”

Coming out of COVID, the city and ISD worked together to combine municipal goals with resident morale. The “Paint the Hippo” contest invited students to submit their most creative look for the hippos standing at City Hall and the Industrial Park. “It brought the community together,” Schmitt says, “and the results demonstrate how Hutto is an important and innovative partner in Williamson County.”

INFRASTRUCTURE But no conversation about balanced growth would be complete without mentioning the roads, water, and power needed to responsibly support it. In 2018, Hutto leaders laid out both a Capital Improvement Plan and a Mobility Master Plan to strategically address the community’s infrastructure needs. That same year, Hutto voters supported propositions to establish bond funding for most of these improvements, such as three projects along FM 1660 which together will reduce traffic delays, improve safety both for drivers and pedestrians, and improve the ability to implement a railroad quiet zone. There will also be extensive work done over the next couple of years to enhance the city’s water supply and drainage systems. The Hutto City Council spotlighted these current and upcoming projects May 10-14 during United for Infrastructure 2021, which is a national movement. “Through visionary leadership and voter support,” Schmitt said, “the Hutto community came together in our belief that well planned and maintained infrastructure enhances our economy, our safety, and our quality of life.”

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CAREER & TECH

THE 86TH TEXAS LEGISLATURE IS THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX FOR THE BENEFIT— AND FUTURE—OF TEXAS STUDENTS.

A

s a long-time advocate for education finance reform, Representative Terry Wilson was likely the only person who was surprised he was named Chair of the House Subcommittee on Article III Appropriations.

In simpler terms, Col. Wilson is tasked with leadership of the House subcommittee “where the money comes from to fund public education.” Fortunately, his background in billion-dollar acquisitions at the Department of Defense gives him ample expertise to manage the one-third of the State’s budget appropriated for public education.

FIRST, REFORM Rep. Wilson explains the legislature is re-working the education finance laws to ensure communities and schools are not in competition for the same dollars. He explains, “We slowed the rate of property taxes because 50 to 60 percent of our taxes go to school funding. But, that also applied to taxpayers who are not making use of the public school system. Today, the State is taking on more of that burden to provide tax relief to property owners. Our Republican House is being diligent about making sure we are providing the resources our schools need while being respectful to everyone in the community.”

GETTING BACK TO SCHOOL Another priority for the legislature is making sure school districts receive the funds and support they need to continue the mission of educating the next generation.

While schools in Texas are funded based on average daily attendance, changes due to COVID have created an alarming statistic that many children are enrolled but neither attending in person, nor participating virtually.

Rep. Wilson says, “It is a travesty that we may have a generation of kids who did not receive the education they needed. The Subcommittee’s primary focus is to make sure the children of our state receive the education they deserve by providing districts the funding necessary to

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THE VISION FOR CAREER & TECH EDUCATION IN TEXAS Ann Marie Kennon annmarie@wilcobr.com continue paying teachers based on pre-COVID attendance data and hold the ISDs harmless in these unusual circumstances.”

“NOW, LET’S GO TO MARS!” It is no secret Central Texas is benefiting from a significant influx of high-tech companies opening or relocating to the Lone Star State. In addition to the U.S. Army Futures Command, recent bids by Elon Musk, and Samsung are a harbinger of many career opportunities for the workforce in Williamson County.

Rep. Wilson was instrumental in bringing the Army Futures Command to Central Texas and says he is not finished there. “We have to do things that demonstrate to the Army that we are all in. We want more than just their headquarters; we want to be part of building our national defense and supporting our nation.”

Expanding Futures Command in the region would mean infusing some of its $32-36 billion research and development budget, for their Prototype Testing and Evaluation Center, into the Texas economy. He explains, “This means no matter where the development is happening in the United States, the products will come to the testing center. We’re talking about things that will end up in our cars, washing machines, communications devices—all spun off into commercial products, energy, and other things for which our Texas manufacturing companies can provide resources and a workforce. Once established, we will have even more jobs in the ancillary markets necessary to sustain the industry and workforce.”

any more, and Texas is making sure every student has access to, and a path in a universe of opportunity as early as middle school.”

EDUCATING THE WORK FORCE Many Texas schools already have CTE programs that enable high school students to start on a pathway to certification that can end with a high-paying job right after graduation.

Georgetown ISD is very public about being ahead of the curve, having made CTE programs a priority over the past 18 months. School Board President Scott Stribling says, “Our local communities asked for this. We are taking a hard look at creatThis is significant because our forward-thinking Legislature ing jobs locally where kids can graduate and find good jobs in is on the verge of passing HB1525, which will push $260 mil- the place where they grew up. It is very encouraging that the lion into vocational, and career and technical education (CTE) state is catching up with funding those needs locally. There is a programs all over the state. Rep. Wilson sums up the need and great need for different trades; medical, technical, cosmetolothe benefits; “Success is not only about a four-year college gy, and we’re able to start preparing these kids now.”

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CAREER & TECH CONTINUED

LEARNING THE I.B.C.s

and/or an associate degree via workbased education. P-TECH grants help ISDs A tri-agency workforce study showed the overcome those cost barriers. Rep. Wilson extent and geography of gaps in our skill says, “Tango Flight is a prime example of sets. Rep. Wilson says, “Texas is very ada superlative program that, because of the vanced in working with predominant skills costs incurred in building a fully-functioning sets, like agriculture, that are region-approairplane, schools need help paying for uppriate. The new paradigm is to go full throtfront costs and infrastructure.” tle on appropriate CTE classes that will help Jarrell ISD Superintendent Dr. Toni Hicks schools fill demands of specific skill sets in every region. We want to prioritize training noted, “There are a lot of costs associated for electricians, HVAC, or automotive tech with CTE programs; welding, for instance, where the skills are needed. With newcom- requires funding to set up and maintain.

This new state funding will ensure we can ers like Tesla and Bitcoin, we are going develop and expand as new kids come into to provide Cisco certifications and other the district, then carry forward with the level expertise that will be in high demand.” of expertise needed so we can give them What this means for students is a chance what they need to achieve their IBCs.” to start exploring new interests as early as Rep. Wilson adds, “If there is a high middle school, and have the opportunity demand for a particular skill set in a city or and choice to continue on those paths in region, local chambers of commerce can high school. With state-supplied resourcsend a letter of endorsement and have that es, students can continue through Level skill set added to the ‘menu’ of CTEs. Once 4 certification before they even graduate accepted, the state will then pay for the high school, to turn their passions into a necessary infrastructure; e.g., refurbished high-paying job without the expense of buildings or equipment. What’s missing post-secondary education. are enough subject matter experts to train Jarrell ISD Superintendent Dr. Toni Hicks the students in specific lanes. As such, says, “Our ISD is intentional about lookindividuals and companies are encouraged ing for additional opportunities to better to connect with the ISD to help provide CTE position our kids for a more competitive instruction hours or fund apprenticeships marketplace. Part of that is ensuring they to prepare these students with real-world have skills and certifications when they experience.” leave high school; especially in Central Texas where we can see the boom happening.

We want our kids, regardless of their paths, The vision is for workforce and school to have certifications ready before, during, demands to meet so Texas students will or after college, and even as part of their be prepared to fill those future jobs. continuing careers.”

These changes also offer opportunities for Among the barriers for schools to individual communities to contribute to the implement CTE programs is cost, but the workforce with their respective skill sets and legislature is putting full effort into promot- willingness to train up the next generation. ing Pathways in Technology Early College The TEA offerings are based on stateHigh Schools (P-TECH) Grants. These are inwide labor market data that support varying novative, open-enrollment high schools that regional programs of study. However, each provide students an opportunity to receive year, local education agencies with labor a high school diploma and a credential

YOU BE THE BRIDGE

market data may apply for new regional programs of study. Wilson explains, “If there is a high demand for a particular skill set in a city or region, local chambers of commerce can send a letter of endorsement and have that skill set added to the ‘menu’ of CTEs. Once accepted, the state will then pay for the necessary infrastructure;, e.g., refurbished buildings or equipment. What’s missing are enough subject matter experts to train the students in specific lanes. As such, individuals and companies are encouraged to connect with the ISDs to share the responsibility to provide CTE instruction hours or fund apprenticeships to prepare these students with real-world experience.”

Dr. Hicks adds, “We are already looking for more internships that will allow students to get practical experience alongside their classwork to earn their IBCs. As large companies open in or relocate to Texas and new needs in health care, technology, and industry manifest, we want there to be no need to bring skills from out of state; Texas will be more than capable of supplying the work force. As such, new partnerships will be more and more important.”

In addition to community buy-in, there is great potential to ensure that all students are included, whether they attend public, private, or virtual school. “The expansion of video instruction means whenever an agency offers dual credit, or technical training, we just need to ensure there is enough broadband to allow access to it,” Rep. Wilson says. “We may even bring more kids back to public schools and raise parent satisfaction. I am prepared to push the envelope with this vision. Everyone is paying for public education whether they use it or not; let’s open the envelope, like they do in college, and let kids sign up for classes they need, not just the ones where they are.”

Contact Rep. Wilson at Terry.Wilson@house.texas.gov

The bottom line is that manufacturing is back and needs to be in Texas. We do that by making sure our public and higher education is well positioned to provide that workforce.

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INDUSTRY

Ann Marie Kennon

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odern Longhorn cattle, once numbering in the millions, have been a part of Texas culture since the 19th century. Keith Hagler, owner of Hagler Longhorns in Taylor, is producing and selling Longhorn beef to meet a growing public demand, but he has always had a special interest because of the variety and robust nature of the breed. “Longhorns are very Texan. People don’t stop on the side of the road to take selfies with regular cows. I got into breeding and ranching as a hobby, as many are able to do, but I enjoy the people who raise them so it’s a great business to be in.”

annmarie@wilcobr.com a cow that is smart enough and able to get up on its hind legs to eat leaves from trees when grass gets short, makes good business sense.”

MULTIPLE MARKETS

Mr. Dubose explains the Association has grown thanks to people who found the old-time cattle intriguing and became interested in raising them. “Many ranchers find it to be a great hobby. Longhorns are so hardy and self-sustaining that it’s almost as simple as just having a fence, and they are extremely agile and strong. With other breeds, a mother cow might be down for half a day, but a Longhorn mother is nursing within 20-30 minutes and her “A longhorn cow in your front pasture will stop new calf can outrun the rancher by then too. Over more cars than a dead man lyin’ out there.” the past eight years, demand has grown, as well, ~Longhorn Auctioneer, Eddie Wood (1922-2008) for entertainment cattle; i.e., roping and rodeos.

They are also very gentle; many a show I’ve seen Hagler takes his cattle personally. “I have owned all kinds a 6- or 7-year-old child working with a 1,000-pound animal of cattle over the past 40 years, and Longhorns are the with 65-70 inches of horn.” easiest; they are calm, and they eat anything. As a business Aside from requiring only a reasonable amount of mainteproposition, they provide continuity and longevity because nance, Longhorns are superior to other cattle because, aside they are very self-sufficient, and females can calve well into from the beef, there is a market for their hides, skulls, and their 20s.” horns. Hagler says, “These are not the skinny plains animals Many people may not have been aware that, for most of that people have seen in old movies and photos. Ranchers 2020, there were meat shortages. Perhaps, while media was appreciate that every animal is different, and we breed them busy talking about toilet paper, they today for color, horn length and size, and missed that COVID restrictions were body shape.” also causing processors to slow or Mr. Dubose, a fifth-generation rancher shut down operations, leaving many himself, has seen it all. “There has been a ranchers and farmers with no way to great diversification in the past decade. get their products to market. FortuPeople began line-breeding smaller nately, while not immune to problems cows, which created a huge mini-Longcaused by the slowdown, the Longhorn horn market. There are also those who market, occupied mostly by small and prefer standard cows but breed just to mid-sized ranchers, continues to thrive see how much horn they can get. Others HAGLER RANCH FAMILY nationwide, in Texas, and in Taylor. are constantly working toward better health and larger meat According to recent sales, “thriving” may be an understatemass for the beef market. All of these animals have pure ment. Keith Dubose, Chairman of the Board of the Texas Longhorn DNA, but the breed is able to accommodate a Longhorn Breeders Association of America, says typical sales spectrum of rancher preferences and remain healthy.” for Longhorns average $3,000-8,000. However, he attended Hagler’s ranch is in Williamson County and he sells proan auction in April in which the average Longhorn price was cessed beef directly from the freezers in his office, but he $20,000; one sold for $200,000. “It never ceases to amaze me how people decide to get into this business. But, owning cautions weekend farmers not to take the simplicity of the

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breed too lightly. “Many are able to raise longhorns for Ag exemptions because they are sustainable on a small scale. But it’s crucial to run even a small ranch correctly; like a business, and with good records. Done right, it can produce a good income while you spend quality time with the animals.”

PERFECT WEEKEND RANCH Hagler emphasizes that being in the cattle business means liking the cattle business. “Everyone wants to be a cowboy, until you have to be a cowboy. Cows get sick or get out of their enclosure; you deal with bad weather and they rely on you to provide for them. Longhorns are the oldest breed of cattle and are survivors—they were the only cattle that would gain weight on the Chisholm Trail and other historic drives of the past. But, ranchers have to be prepared for drought and provide water, have plenty of green grass to grow the best meat, and understand how supply fluctuations in everything from hay to fuel to fertilizer will affect how you are able to care for, and afford your herd.”

In addition to selling the beef, Hagler Ranch also auctions and sells Longhorns to allow others to enjoy owning their own for Ag exemptions, or sideline farming.

Both caution potential ranchers to not get excited and get too many cattle. Mr. Dubose says, “Longhorns can handle any kind of weather, which is why we have breeders as far north as Canada, but also in Australia, Belgium, and many other countries worldwide. They can eat acorns without getting sick, and even West Nile doesn’t affect them. But, in any conditions, they still need adequate food and water for good health.” Hagler agrees, “Texas weather is unpredictable; you have to make sure you have can produce or purchase an adequate supply of hay. It’s easy to look around in the Springtime and see plenty of green grass, but that has to last the season, whether rain comes or not. You have to consider the full length of the season—cows eat every day—maintain numbers, and not allow them to overgraze the land they are on.”

i.e., he expects they will be playing catch-up for possibly the next two years.

“There are plenty of animals, we just need to be able to get them to the plant. Longhorns are bred to be superior to commercial cattle and, while there is no danger in leaving them at pasture, they do reach an age at which the meat is no longer premium.”

The challenges present because all but the biggest ranches must outsource the process to meet USDA compliance. “A processing plant is not a do-it-yourself proposition,” Hagler says. “It requires permits and inspections and a great deal of specialized equipment.” As costs and wait lists increase, social and other media indicate some family-owned ranches have taken to selling and butchering animals privately, while medium-sized operations are left shaking their heads as grocery store prices continue to go up, but cattle prices continue to be down. Hagler adds, “Somewhere in the middle, people are making a lot of money.”

TO YOUR HEALTH Regardless of the slowdown in processing, Hagler says the market and popularity of Longhorn beef is growing, and more and more ranchers are getting into the business every day. Sales in Texas and around the world demonstrate the uniqueness of the meat; the rich red color and the health benefits speak to increased sales for all those in the TLBAA who are in the market. Research has shown grass-fed Longhorn beef is the healthiest meat on the market with respect to calories, cholesterol, and even vitamin content. Mr. Dubose echoes that data; “Longhorn meat is higher in protein than almost anything, and the only thing more lean is venison. The health-conscious public has opened up a whole new market for breeders and ranchers, who can hardly keep up with the demand.” To that end, everything Hagler Ranch sells is certified, USDA inspected, and very cost-competitive with local grocery stores.

BEEF CHALLENGES Hagler says there are factors beyond COVID that have been responsible for the processing and packing backup. Still, processors have reached a critical point at which the expense has gone up nationwide, and accounts for shortages that appear in grocery stores from time to time;

Visit HaglerLonghorns.com for information about breeding, ranching, or to order up some healthy food.

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21

RECREATION & TOURISM

Dell Diamond

Keeping America’s Pastime Alive in Williamson County

Every year since inception they have been #1, 2, or 3 in total attendance

9 years highest season attendance in the league 46 times there were more than 12,000 fans at one game

On March 12, 2020, as did the rest of the nation, Williamson County awoke to its first day without sports. Facing an unknowable number of days before they would return, conference tables everywhere filled with the best and brightest in the front offices of respective leagues and conferences to try to strike a balance between safety and survival of the business.

The NBA had walked off the court the night before and, while opening day was still three weeks away, Major League Baseball immediately postponed its season for another month. Even our own Round Rock Express had to consider the possibility that people were suddenly unwilling hazards to each other, and crowds—the lifeblood of the sports industry—were impossible.

Round Rock Express President Chris Almendarez says the team was scheduled to begin “March Madness” Spring training the Monday after the shutdown.

“Baseball season is what we do, and we were already prepping our facilities and our people to be ready for Opening Day, which was still three weeks out. When MLB decided to postpone the season, we immediately set about pivoting and shifting to identify other activities and events that could take place in early April that would allow us to re-purpose our stadium and keep our employees on the payroll.”

Typical season is 70-72 home games

Biggest crowds for Independence Day & Fan Appreciation Nights

was months ahead of other regional business sectors that rely on crowds for their livelihood, and the Express success provided a model for others in Central Texas and beyond. Almendarez said, “Everyone got to work wherever they were needed. Executives and managers were cleaning, painting, and getting things ready to go so we would be ready when the government gave us the green light.”

PLAN B, C, & D

When Dell Diamond staff began hearing rumors that the whole season might be cancelled, they got tougher, and asked how they could sustain over a full year to get ready for Opening Day 2021. “That was when we had to make the hardest decisions,” Almendarez says. “The bulk of our revenue, around 95 percent, comes between April and September, so, at that time, we had The Round Rock Express were founded in to lay off 40 percent 2000 by Ryan Sanders Sports & EntertainLooking at their attendance records—finishing in the of our staff. We looked ment, which was created by Nolan Ryan, top three in total minor-league attendance in all 20 years from top to bottom to his sons Reid and Reese, Don Sanders, and his sons Bret and Brad. It is one of since the team’s founding—an inability to fill seats for a identify our strengths the premier sports and entertainment full season was among the worst possible conseand considered who operators and ownership groups in the quences of a lockdown. As such, seated at his confercould get us through nation. The group also owns Express ence table were General Manager Tim Jackson, Senior the most challenging Youth Baseball, RS3 Events & Entertainment, RS3 Strategic Hospitality, RS3 Turf, Vice President of Marketing Laura Fragoso, Assistant of times, and back to and the Nolan Ryan Foundation.

General Manager Stu Scally, and Senior Director of Stathriving for the next dium Operations Gene Kropff. Each simply asked what season.” he or she could do to help.

On June 30, the Minor League Baseball season was cancelled, which left the Express looking for While, nationally, teams and leagues had varying events that could fill the gap but still make sense levels of success dealing with COVID practices and for an arena of their size and type. Fortunateenforcement, the staff in Round Rock were “all hands on ly, Almendarez says, the Texas Collegiate deck” and did whatever they had to do to make people League, a summer wood-bat college circuit feel safe coming to Dell Diamond. Thanks to hard decifell into their laps, and they became one of the sions by leadership, and the willingness of staff to wear first venues to begin having events again. many hats in order to keep the train running, the team

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Ann Marie Kennon In addition to baseball, they scheduled a Granger Smith concert, which allowed 2,500 socially-distanced guests to attend throughout the bowl. Almendarez says, “Safety was our priority, and it was a little scary to jump out ahead of the crowd, so to speak, but in the end, we were just figuring out how to keep going and the concert generated good revenue. We got great recognition from Country Music Television who said, ‘This is how you do it.’ Pretty soon, other promoters began calling and we were able to schedule more than 30 events during a pandemic, which helped get us ready to open for 2021.”

The sports industry in general took the pandemic quite hard, but having an outdoor venue helped make the difference. Almendarez reports Travis County venues are still unable to open their doors, and while everyone has been hurt, their flexibility and outside-the-box thinking also made the difference.

annmarie@wilcobr.com

No one has had that experience for 13 months, so when we opened the gates May 6, we were thrilled to have people here.

We are as eager to feel safe, watch baseball, and return to a tiny bit of normalcy as they are.”

He also credits Dell and H-E-B for standing with them from the start and giving them grace periods as everyone knew it was just a matter of time to work through the challenges. “The biggest thing for us, and our partners, is that we all want the group to thrive, individually and together. Everyone contributed something different and each step up was another step to recovery.”

Given the nature and strength of these partnerships, it is no surprise that Dell Diamond is the two-time defending Texas Turfgrass Association Baseball Field of the Year, recipient of Ballpark Digest’s Best Ballpark Improvement Award in 2018, and in 2016, they were named Baseball America Bob Freitas Triple-A Organization of the Year. Other awards include MiLB John Henry Moss Community Service Award, National Sports Forum OM Foundation Organizations of the Year, and the Austin Gives Generous Business Award.

Their creativity and flexibility were not lost on fans who came back again and again for concerts, parking lot drive-in movies, bull riding, and more. Almendarez says, “We are always open to any proposals for events and entertainment. We love baseball, of course, because that’s what we’re good at, so we are also happy to host high school games to give kids the opportunity to play here. My staff and I will continue to look at different types of programming to dig us out of the hole COVID put us Opening day is scheduled for May 6. After a change in the in. We just need events that make sense, and we will do anyMLB system, the Round Rock Express has changed its affiliation thing we can to create revenue.” back to the Texas Rangers who have already opened up their stadium for the Express to train. The schedule has It was wonderful when excited fans and guests came through the been modified to minimize travel until restrictions are further loosened, but the Express will begin the gate and thanked us for being open, for being there for them.

2021 season with a 12-game homestand before ~ Round Rock Express President Chris Almendarez hitting the road. The team will have Wednesdays off throughout the season, but fans can expect superlative play every game as the same great coaching and athleticism that enabled 146 Express alumni to be promoted to Almendarez says, above all, he is most proud of his staff, who the Major Leagues over 20 seasons will continue in 2021. kept everything going, and did whatever we asked them to.

Almendarez adds, “We are excited to get to opening day and “They signed up to work in baseball and not doing that was

2021 SEASON

IT’S ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS

tough on a lot of folks.

Asking them to pivot in Collegiate summer baseball, their personal tasks to do nicknamed “wood-bat leagues” things they didn’t sign because players are only allowed to use wooden bats, are amateur up for; from making sure leagues in the U.S. and Canada, the diamond is painted made up of players who have to directing traffic in the attended at least one year of parking lots—suddenly evcollege and have at least one eryone was in ‘operations’. year of eligibility remaining.

Sports is not only an outlet for the fans, but also for the people who work in the business. No matter what is going on in your life, for three hours you can just sit back, eat a hot dog, and enjoy a game.

catch our breath. It will have been two years of a lot of hard work and trying to figure things out. We are asking Central Texas and Williamson County to come on back to a safe and social environment to support the Express, or anything we have going on.”

Among their biggest—and also eager to return—fans is Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell, who says, “The Round Rock Express are an amazing example of a small business surviving and thriving during a global pandemic. I applaud the leadership of the team and the organization, and I am pleased to know Williamson County will begin the new season May 6th all thanks to the Round Rock Express and their leadership. It’s time to play ball!”

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PEOPLE ON THE

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

MOVE Devin Padavil

Dr. Devin Padavil became the new superintendent of Taylor ISD February 1 following his roles as area and assistant superintendent in Leander ISD and Fort Bend ISD, respectively. After working as a principal supervisor, high school principal, and middle school principal, Dr. Padavil said he is looking forward to working with his team to develop academically high performing schools and an exceptional workplace climate. The team he works with, he says, is committed to building an exceptional educational experience for the students who call Taylor home.

Michael Bartley Michael Bartley joined The Wesleyan as chaplain and director of spiritual life April 1. He oversees the spiritual life and pastoral care of The Wesleyan, which provides independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, home health and hospice. He also coordinates The Wesleyan chaplaincy program and serves as a liaison to the community, community clergy, local congregations, denominational groups, chaplains, volunteer clergy, and lay ministers.

Jameson Pennington Jameson Pennington, director of the Williamson County Community Supervision and Corrections Department, was appointed to the Texas Corrections Association Board of Directors April 13. The Texas Corrections Association provides a forum for promoting quality correctional practices through professional growth, leadership, mentorship, and education.

Robert Cresanti Robert Cresanti joined the Sport Clips Haircuts’ board of directors April 5. He is past president and CEO of the International Franchise Association and founder of Cresanti Associates, LLC, an international business, technology, and public affairs advisory firm. He has been an advisor to three U.S. Presidents, undersecretary of Commerce for Technology, and senior chief privacy officer in the federal government.

Nakesha Lopez Nakesha Lopez was promoted to senior vice president and chief human resources officer of Baylor Scott & White Health in March and will provide strategic oversight and leadership for the system’s human resources function. She assumed the role after working in multiple roles, from director to vice president of human resources. Baylor Scott & White Health is the largest not-for-profit health system in Texas and has 51 hospitals and flagship academic medical centers in Dallas and Temple.

Jessica Quinn Jessica Quinn became the senior vice president and chief compliance officer of Baylor Scott & White March 22 and will oversee the health care system’s corporate compliance program, reinforcing its focus on transparency.

Mike Mullender Mike Mullender was promoted to vice president and chief mission and ministry officer of Baylor Scott & White Health in March. He is continuing the system’s faith-based legacy after having previously served as the director of pastoral care for Baylor University Medical Center and for the Baylor Scott & White system.

For consideration, please email information to info@wilcobr.com

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Charlotte Kovalchuk charlotte@wilcobr.com

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early 50 years after launching, Williamson County EMS has continuously embraced new technology and services, but one thing hasn’t changed over the years—the department’s heart for patients. “The system is dramatically different,” says Dr. Jeff Jarvis, medical director for Wilco EMS. “It’s much larger, with a larger population, but we really focus on the practice, we focus on training, and most importantly, we focus on the heart and compassion of medicine.”

FROM THE COUNTY JUDGE With Bill Gravell

and which artery is being affected, saving time and lives by delivering the information to the hospital where patients will receive further treatment.

Back in the 70s, Wilco EMS also did not have many pain treatment options, whereas now, “We’re very aggressive about treating pain and making sure patients are as comfortable as possible,” Jeff says. For patients with breathing problems, the best option used to be a tube in That compassion has been especially im- their lungs. Now, paramedics can help them breathe with portant in the last year. Williamson County masks attached to ventilators.

Judge Bill Gravell says, “In the last year, no When the tube is necessary, department has faced greater challenges and adversity. What has been asked of para- “We are careful about how we do that so we’re using the right medics during COVID is unprecedented, combination of medications and their response has been nothing less and techniques to do it as than amazing.” safely as possible. We’re one of the industry leaders in that,” Jeff says.

EVOLUTION OF CARE

Formed in 1975, Wilco EMS consisted of 16 employees and four ambulances, and paramedics treated 700 patients in the calendar year. Back then, workers could only guess if a patient was having a heart attack.

Today, Wilco EMS has 151 employees and 22 response vehicles that serve the entire county around the clock, allowing 34,000 patients to receive care each year. More importantly, instead of guessing whether someone is having a heart attack, paramedics can not only identify the condition but also see where it is happening in the heart

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EMS CALLS PER DAY

3.9 CALLS WIL

11.7 CALLS

LIAM

SON

COU

NTY

27 CALLS 30.1 CALLS

WHAT IS UHU?

WHEN YOU CALL 9-1-1 Wilco EMS serves every area in Williamson County except Georgetown, which provides EMS service through its fire department. When it comes to planning for more resources, Jeff says Wilco EMS doesn’t determine how many resources are needed based on population numbers, because not all citizens have an equal need for EMS service. “For example, young families with young kids are (thankfully) typically very healthy and do not need EMS. Elderly citizens, on the other hand, typically have more need for EMS,” he says.

Instead, Wilco EMS evaluates its call volume. Across the system, Wilco EMS receives an average of 73 calls a day: •North area (Weir, Jarrell, and Florence): 3.9 calls •South area (Round Rock, Sam Bass, Hutto): 30.1 calls

Unit Hour Utilization is the proportion of time a unit is in service to the time in use. UHU is optimum between .35 and .4; i.e., 35-40% usage.

When a district gets close to .35, the county begins budgeting for new resources in that area.

Additionally, the dispatch computer uses historical data to run algorithms to identify where 9-1-1 calls are likely to occur, and will shift resources to that area.

THE BOTTOM LINE While ambulances are based in a station and serve a typical geographic region, any County ambulance will respond to any location in the County where it is needed.

Across the system, the Wilco UHU falls between 0.11 in rural areas to 0.34 in denser areas, with an average of 0.27 overall.

•East area (Taylor, Thrall, Thorndale, Granger): 11.7 calls •West area (Cedar Park, Jollyville, Leander, Liberty Hill): 27.0 calls Wilco EMS is asking Commissioners Court for support to add another ambulance in Leander. For Fiscal Year 2021, Wilco EMS’s budget is $19.8 million, and the county’s total budget is $394 million.

THE WILCO WAY Wilco EMS has been an innovator in the prehospital field, with its emphasis on excellent customer service, evidence-based clinical care, and continued advancement in technology and practices, all of which have earned the department many state and national honors over the years.

But one of the main things that sets Wilco EMS apart is actually not all that sexy, Jeff says. “It’s not expensive equipment, not some fancy procedure—just old-fashioned compassion.” What he calls the Wilco Way is a mindset the paramedics are taught from day one. “I make sure new employees understand that they have voluntarily become a servant,” he says. “They are putting the needs of patients above their own. They are meeting patients on the worst day of their lives, so we do everything we can, not just to practice good medicine, but to make them comfortable, whether with pain medicine or just holding their hand. That’s what sets us apart.”

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BUSINESS BRIEFS FLORENCE Sereno Farms Sereno Farms opened April 21 at 8989 FM 487 and offers visitors the opportunity to experience the Mediterranean without leaving Texas. Sereno Farms is a corporate and private event venue that features a manor home, cafe, sculpture garden, lavender fields and orchards, and free monthly classes that teach Mediterranean cooking, gardening, and crafting.

taps and a full bar, and a varied menu. Justin and his wife Katy Bohls also own two wedding and event venues, The Union on Eighth at 224 E Eighth St. and the Wish Well House at the corner of Sixth and Main streets.

JARRELL

For consideration, please email information to info@wilcobr.com Northline The 115-acre Northline project will serve as a central hub for Leander with office, retail, and hotel space, as well as community amenities including a town square, parks, trails, and civic spaces. Construction on several of the buildings is expected to start later this year. One of the first tenants in Northline will be The Hub, an outdoor food, beverage and entertainment venue.

The Granary The Granary, a restaurant and food truck facility, held its grand Leander Springs opening on April 10 at 110 W Ave. L in Jarrell, and features live Leander Springs is anticipated music, drinks and barbecue, and to break ground late this year food trucks. at the intersection of 183 A and GEORGETOWN 2243. The project will feature LEANDER a 4-acre lagoon, office space, City Post Chop House Bar W Marketplace restaurants, retail, entertainment, The historic Post Office and City Hall at 113 E. Eighth St. has Bar W Marketplace is a neigh- and a hotel. been transformed into City Post borhood community shopping LIBERTY HILL Chop House, with a steakhouse, center anticipated to open in oyster bar, and butcher shop November at the southeast Farm to Fork on the first floor and an events corner of State Highway 29 and Farm to Fork restaurant is space on the second floor. The Ronald Reagan Boulevard. The moving from Leander to Liberty events space is open for bookapproximately 180,000 square ings now, and City Post Chop foot center will be anchored by Hill in early May at 3000 FM 1869 in the historic Hobo Junction House will have a grand opening an HEB and offer lease space building. “After seven years in in June. and building sites for retail, service, restaurant, and medical Leander we really wanted to find District Six that hometown feeling again,” uses. The square footage does Named after the district it chef and owner Amy Schaffner not include future users of Bar resides in, District Six, a new says. “When you come to Farm W’s seven pad sites. Bar W will restaurant, opened March 1 be- house an anticipated 25-30 to Fork, I want you to feel like hind the Georgetown Art Center businesses, not including the you are sitting at my dining room on the Square. The restaurant table.”

HEB and pad users. has 21 TVs, arcade games, 40 McCoy’s Building Supply

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McCoy’s Building Supply’s new store at 2505 RM 1869 is set to open in May and will serve builders, remodelers, do-it-yourselfers and the farm and ranch community. The facility will feature retail space, a paved lumberyard, and a large drive-through lumber storage area. The Liberty Hill store will be McCoy’s 89th location.

ROUND ROCK

headquarters is anticipated to open in August or September.

The facility will showcase an engineering design workspace, a media and learning center, and an innovative warehouse facility.

Amazing Magnets anticipates employing 25 people this year, and a total of 50 workers by 2022.

Scandinavian Spaces Furniture retailer Scandinavian Spaces broke ground February 2 on a 43,000 square foot facility that will house a new showroom and warehouse at 1990 Steam Way in Round Rock. The facility is expected to finish in December and add 10 jobs in the next few years.

Ametrine Defense manufacturer Ametrine, Inc. will relocate its headquarters and operations from Rockville, Maryland to Round Rock this year with a grand opening planned for the end of May. Ametrine is a manuTAYLOR facturer of camouflage systems and will lease an approximately Eagle Bank 40,000 square foot facility at Eagle Bank opened its third Settlers Crossing, 900 E. Old branch in Williamson County on Settlers Blvd.

March 15 at 106 NW Carlos G Amazing Magnets Parker Blvd. in Taylor. The bank is a subsidiary of Round Top State Amazing Magnets, which designs, manufactures, and distrib- Bank headquartered in Round Top, Texas near Brenham with utes magnetic-related devices assets of $750M. Branches are and products, broke ground January 7 on its new location at also located in Jarrell and Round 1992 Steam Way in Round Rock. Rock.

Amazing Magnets is relocating its business operations from Anaheim, California and the new

P.O. Box 213, Jarrell. TX, 76537