August 17, 2022 News-Dispatch

AUGUST 17, 2022 HAYS COUNTY LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT OFFERS FREE VACCINES

DSISD GETS READY FOR STUDENTS PAGE 10

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HaysNewsDispatch.com

Vol. 42 • No. 48

Serving Hays County, TX

LOCAL HEALTH NEWS

Hays County confirms two cases of monkeypox STAFF REPORT

information will be released at this time to protect patient HAYS COUNTY — confidentiality.

The Hays County Local Monkeypox can be Health Department transmitted through (HCLHD) has identified close physical contact two confirmed cases with someone who has of monkeypox in Hays monkeypox. The virus County. is primarily spread According to a press through contact with release, the HCLHD is infectious sores, scabs investigating the cases or bodily fluids but and working to identify can also be spread by individuals who may respiratory secretions have had direct contact during extensive with the patients. face-to-face contact.

According to the According to the CDC, Centers for Disease anyone can contract Control & Prevention, monkeypox, regardless monkeypox is a rare of gender identity or disease caused by sexual orientation. infection with the According to the CDC, monkeypox virus, which monkeypox symptoms is a part of the same typically begin within family of viruses as variola virus, a virus that three weeks of exposure to the virus and can causes smallpox. consist of fever, chills, The HCLHD has swollen lymph nodes received a limited and exhaustion. supply of the JYNNEOS Individuals with vaccine and is working monkeypox can also together with the develop a rash on their Texas Department of hands, feet, chest, face State Health Services and mouth. healthcare providers The time from and other local health infection to developing departments to identify symptoms is usually high-risk contacts of seven to 14 days; confirmed or probable however, individuals monkeypox cases. may develop symptoms According to a press five to 21 days after release, “The county’s exposure. health department can Anyone with a evaluate on a case-byrash that looks like case basis any individual monkeypox should that meets high-risk criteria and may benefit contact their healthcare provider and avoid from pre-exposure gatherings, sex or being prophylaxis (PrEP) intimate with anyone to prevent disease until they consult their occurrence.” healthcare provider.

No further

Monkeypox Questions & Answers

What are the symptoms, signs and more

What are the signs?

Check for lesions, rashes, sores and pimple-like bumps on your skin. These sores are signs of a Monkeypox infection and can leave scaring.

How does it Spread?

Monkeypox has many different ways to spread. Primarily, it spreads through contact with infected individuals, but it can also spread through respiration and materials from the infected.

How to avoid it?

The best way to avoid getting infected is to limit contact. Avoid enclosed spaces or materials such as clothing or bed linens that have been around infected individuals.

Is it dangerous?

While Monkeypox is similar to the dangerous Smallpox Virus, Monkeypox is rarely dangerous . As of now, there have been no known fatalities related to the virus in the US.

Can it be treated?

Dripping Springs not undergoing disaster declaration

DSISD recognizes custodial staff STAFF REPORT

PHOTO COURTESY OF DSISD

The silent heroes (custodians) of Dripping Springs ISD were treated with a luncheon last week. our campuses ready for the first day of school and all that you do throughout the year,” DSISD said in a

ARCHERY CHAMPION – PAGE 12

Volunteers help out at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park when animals had to evacuate from their homes.

CITY NEWS

Currently, there is a vaccine that can prevent Monkeypox. However, there is a limited supply, and there are no specific treatments dedicated to Monkeypox.

SILENT HEROES

DRIPPING SPRINGS – A little can go a long way.

When lights are turned off and teachers pack up their things for the day, one team stays behind to get ready for the next: custodians.

They are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the classrooms and building day in and day out.

Dripping Springs ISD treated its custodial staff to a luncheon on Thursday, Aug. 11 in the district’s administration building as a token of appreciation.

“We appreciate all of your hard work getting

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Facebook post. “Thank you to Keith and Ginnie Wilcox for cooking for this amazing team.”

BY MEGAN WEHRING

DRIPPING SPRINGS – Despite the recent wildfires and the county being under a burn ban, the city of Dripping Springs is not executing a disaster declaration at this time.

On Aug. 9, the Dripping Springs City Council discussed the possibility of declaring a disaster for the city due to a public emergency, following the emergency management report regarding animal shelter operations at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. However, the council did not take any action.

The purpose of declaring a local state of disaster is to activate emergency management plans and to authorize the use and request of aid/ assistance.

“It basically states that a local jurisdiction has

The News-Dispatch Barton Publications, Inc. The News-Dispatch (USPS 011-401) published weekly by Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. Periodicals postage paid at Buda, TX 78610 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610.

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maxed out its resources and needs aid either from the county or the state,” said Roman Baligad, emergency management coordinator. “That did not occur in this situation. We were still able to maintain the animal shelter with the staff that we had.

That’s why the decision was made not to issue a disaster declaration.”

While the recent fires have not been within the city limits, the fires have already impacted the city as it has been used as an animal shelter, according to backup agenda documents. Animals came in from Blanco County due to the Smoke Rider Fire and Wimberley due to the Hermosa Fire.

Though the city council decided to not issue a declaration at this time, Mayor Bill Foulds has the authority to do so at a future date if he deems it necessary.

Page 2

Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

WEATHER

Is a Stage 3 Critical Drought on the horizon for Hays County?

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

following certain curtailments to conserve water. Each permittee has HAYS COUNTY — The a customizable drought Barton Springs Edwards contingency plan it must Aquifer Conservation follow since its use of that District (BSEACD) could water might be different declare a Stage 3 Critical than other users and its Drought if drought water supply. The district conditions continue to receives monthly meter worsen, but BSEACD readings and pumping remains optimistic.

According to the district’s reports from its permittees.

The district also monitors principal hydrogeologist, permittees to ensure they Brian Smith, BSEACD successfully meet their expects months of low curtailments. According rainfall.

“We were kind of looking to the district’s Regulatory Compliance Manager Erin at maybe sometime in Swanson, permittees have September, maybe late been “pretty successful” in September," Smith said. meeting those curtailments. "[But] we might cross into “We, on our end, the next stage of drought." are always watching The BSEACD’s board and alerting them [the of directors established a permittees] as well. We Stage 2 Alarm Drought on really want to prevent June 9 after the district’s overfunding, and be drought triggers at proactive, not reactive,” Lovelady Monitor Well, and Barton Springs passed said David Marino, below their drought triggers BSEACD’s communication and outreach manager. in late May and early June.

At Stage 2, the district Both drought triggers must requires permittees to stay above the threshold for meet monthly pumpage the county to come out of reduction requirements: the drought.

20% for Edwards Historical Meanwhile, BSEACD and Conditional Class has around 120-150 A permittees; 50% for permittees (companies Edwards Conditional Class and municipalities)

The Texas Water Development Board's latest Water Weekly report shows that months of belowaverage precipitation and above-average temperature have driven the area of the state impacted by drought to its largest value since July 2013.

B permittees; 100% for Edwards Conditional Class C and Class D permittees, and 20% for Trinity and Alluvial/Austin Chalk Historical permittees.

Although Hays County residents continue to hope for rain, Smith said

the district’s conservation efforts have been working when looking at the numbers.

“We’re optimistic because the permittees have done well even when we think we’ve gotten close to [cutting back] 40%

before,” Smith said.

Conservation efforts include rainwater harvesting, collecting and using rainwater for outdoor watering, turning off the water while brushing your teeth instead of letting it run and choosing to plant

native or drought tolerant plants.

BSEACD will meet again on Sept. 15 at 5 p.m.

More conservation tips can be found online at https://bseacd. org/education/waterconservation/conserve.

BACK TO SCHOOL FAIR

Hays County Local Health Department offers free vaccines

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

HAYS COUNTY — The Hays County Local Health Department partnered with Christus Trinity Clinic to host its Back to School Fair at 1401 Broadway St., Ste. A in San Marcos from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday.

While the event was held in San Marcos, all residents of Hays County were invited to attend.

The event offered an assortment of brochures for different support services, including youth recovery, Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program benefits.

The Hays County Food Bank, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Parents as Teachers, Capital Area Agency on Aging, Cenikor Foundation and the San Marcos Police and Fire departments were all in attendance.

Parents As Teachers

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Parents As Teachers brochure detailing program services. is an organization that promotes optimal early development, learning, and health of young children by supporting and engaging parents and caregivers.

The organization’s biggest clients are Child Protective Services, parents looking for parenting classes and teenagers who don’t know how to be a parent because

HAVING VISION PROBLEMS? IT COULD BE CATARACTS

Face painter Lisa Eklund paints a child’s face. health department.”

As children waited to receive their vaccines they could enjoy the bouncy house, get their faces painted or get a balloon

animal. Children could also pick up bookmarks, stress balls, colorful pencils and bracelets, along with small bags of popcorn, popsicles and toys.

Vaccinations will continue to be administered until Aug. 19 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 401 Broadway St., Ste. A in San Marcos.

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they, themselves, are children.

Margie Rodriguez, clinic manager with the Hays County Local Health Department, said they are providing resource information that’s needed for a lot of the community.

“Vaccinations are an essential part of preparing to send your kids back to school,” Rodriguez said in an online news release.

“Throughout the rest of that week, we will also be offering free back-to-school vaccinations for uninsured and underinsured children 18 years and younger at the

Three locations to serve you Southwest Austin Office 5625 Eiger Rd, Ste 100 Austin, TX 78735

For all the latest news in Hays County, visit

HAYS COUNTY — The Office of Emergency Services (OES) is preparing for its 5th annual Emergency Preparedness

Fair on Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hays CISD Performing Arts Center in Kyle.

According to a press release, the event theme “Ready. Prep. Go.” is a call for Hays County

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and willingness to take care of yourself and your family in the event of a disaster or emergency,” said Mike Jones, emergency services office director.

Jones used the February 2021 Central Texas winter storm that cut off power and water for days as one reason to attend the fair.

“Knowing what to do in an emergency can mean the difference between life and death,” said Brandon Hig, OES assistant director and CERT program administrator.

Attendees can learn how to make preparedness kits, listen to experts talk about ways to be ready for any natural disasters like freezes and droughts, and learn about the county’s emergency alert system

See FAIR, page 3

Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

Page 3

BUDA PROPOSES 2023 BUDGET

Tax rate to remain unchanged; utility rate increases With inflation, labor shortages and a potential looming recession, leaders within the city of Buda have worked hard to create a budget that will address resident needs, such as maintaining a low tax rate while funding much-needed projects to improve the city and keep up with growth.

The Buda City Council received a presentation on the proposed fiscal year 2023 city budget during a special meeting on Aug. 9.

City Manager Micah Grau said that this budget is the largest in Buda history.

“That’s probably true most years, but with the bond implementation program from the 2021 bonds, the total budget exceeds $102 million, which are big city numbers when we start talking about a budget like that,” Grau said.

The budget totals $102,323,229 in expenses, which is about $32.4 million higher than the FY 2022 budget, and $50.1 million in revenues. The budget also includes $53.4 million in capital projects.

Some projects that are currently underway and funded in the current budget will be carried over to the FY 2023 budget at the closeout of FY 2022.

In keeping with the larger 2036 Strategic Plan, the city developed a few major budget priorities: Broadband, development process improvement and economic expansion, downtown parking,

employee retention, mobility, sidewalks and infrastructure, parks enhancements and public safety enhancements.

The budget includes $16.7 million for the General Fund, $14.1 million for the Water and Wastewater Funds, $50.1 million for Capital Improvement Funds, $6.7 million for the Debt Service Fund, $1.2 million for the Hotel/Motel Fund, $2.2 million for the Local Government Corporation, $4.1 million for the Economic Development Corporation, $2 million for the Sanitation Fund and $4.2 million for other special revenue funds.

With residents and businesses feeling the economic pressure, the budget proposes the tax rate per $100 valuation is budgeted to remain flat at $0.3423, unchanged from FY 2021-22, and remains one of the lowest municipal tax rates in the state for full-service cities.

Because of increases in appraised value on existing properties, the Maintenance and Operations portion of the tax rate will decrease to $0.0926 per $100 of valuation. This will generate less property tax revenue than the previous fiscal year by approximately $28.5K. The city logged record highs for sales tax collection this year. The sales tax is budgeted to increase 5% in FY 2023, which is considerably

less than the 19.8% experienced in actual collections in FY 2022.

The Interest and Sinking portion of the rate will increase from $0.2336 to $0.2497 in support of the new debt the city issued in 2021 for the approved general obligation bonds approved that November.

Within the General Fund, the city’s main governmental fund, the majority of its expenses are related to public safety. The police department budget is increasing by 31%, largely due to the city’s portion of the Combined Emergency Communications Center at $598,000, paying a pro rata share of the cost for the facility and to operate the new emergency communications center.

Two new sworn officers including a lieutenant and patrol officer are also being added per a staffing study recommendation this year.

The budget also proposes a combined average utility rate increase of 15% on customers’ water and wastewater bills. For the average home using 7,500 gallons of water per month and 5,000 gallons of wastewater, the rate increase will equal approximately $16.20 more per month,

FAIR, from page 2 (WarnCentralTexas.org).

Vendors and demonstrators will also teach attendees what documents to take in case of evacuation, how to identify edible plants and flowers, how to handle financial issues after a crisis and insurance coverage.

The fair will also feature a variety of first responders around Hays County.

There will be food trucks, vendors, performances by local school bands, a silent auction and a raffle.

COURTESY OF CITY OF BUDA

A breakdown of Buda’s FY 2023 General Fund, which makes up $16.7 million of the budget. depending on usage.

The increase is necessary to pay for rising costs of operation including water supplies, debt payments associated with the new Alliance Regional Water Association supply, debt service costs associated with expanding system capacity and lower than anticipated growth. Rates are expected to stabilize in 2025.

To minimize the rate increase, instead of the

usual 7% of expenses reimbursement to the General Fund from the Water Fund, only $100,000 is proposed to be transferred this year.

Ultimately, Grau said that FY 2023 will be a “year of transition” as the city works with new leaders and continues its conservative financial management approach, despite high inflation and an uncertain economic future.

A courtesy public

hearing on the proposed tax rate and budget will be held during the regular council meeting on Sept.

6. The statutory public hearing will be held on Sept. 20 during the regular council meeting, where council will take a vote on the tax rate and budget.

FY 2023 begins Oct. 1 and will end Sept. 30, 2023. The budget draft can be viewed on the City of Buda website at www. ci.buda.tx.us/131/Budget.

Women IN BUSINESS

Proceeds from the raffle and silent auction will go toward the Blanco River Recovery Team and the Hays County Fire Chief’s Association.

Those interested in learning more about the fair can visit https:// haysinformed.com.

Individuals who are interested in hosting a booth or donating a silent auction item can contact Michelle Villegas at Michelle.Villegas@co.hays. tx.us.

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ACROSS

1 “March Madness” org.

5 Twain’s Huckleberry 6 Alan of Texas-based “The Big Land” 7 __ Cola 8 in 2022, gas in Texas cost more than $4 ___ gallon 9 an emoji is a modern-day ______ 15 state where TX Buddy Holly died 16 similarities between two things 19 TXism: “___ ____ of spit and vinegar” (energetic man) 21 TX Rodney Crowell wrote song “‘Til _ ____ Control Again” 22 TXism: “up ___ __ ‘__ juice” (coffee) 27 TXism: “____ dog won’t hunt” 28 Texas has __ ____abortion law 29 Texas Tech winning Lady Raiders coach, Sharp (1982-2006) 30 TXism: “gave me a ____ ___ dance” (runaround) 32 “Traveling Wilbury” Petty, with TX Roy Orbison (init.)

33 you can go salt____ ___ing from South Padre Island 36 underground part of a plant 37 Texas actor Tommy ___ Jones

38 infantile, childish 39 TXism: “between a rock ___ _ ____ place” 41 “One ____, one Ranger” 42 TXism: “fat as a boardinghouse cat” 45 Texans Houston and Donaldson 46 San Antonio priv. univer.

47 TX Buddy Holly’s “True Love ____” 48 quick light blow 22

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TEXAS CROSSWORD

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by Charley & Guy Orbison

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Copyright 2022by Orbison Bros.

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1 Cowboys and Texans org.

2 U.S. spy org.

3 novelist Elmer Kelton was born in this Texas county 4 “Sizzlin’ Summer Arts ___ ______ ____” in Hurst 8 rhyming verse 9 “____ _____ _____ Ride” with the Houston Rodeo 10 365 days (abbr.)

11 governors: “__ and Pa” Ferguson

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12 “Pepsi Challenge” “_____ ____ test” 13 noted Texas pianist, Samaroff 14 Mc____, Texas 15 TXism: “_ ____ ___ cluckin’ but I can’t find your nest” 16 “sounds like a ____” 17 messes with Texas 18 shot from a concealed location 20 something is wrong (2 wds.)

22 before noon time 23 how Texans might pronounce “no” 24 drearily dull

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25 TX Kristofferson 1976 drama: “_ ____ is Born” 26 TXism: “chompin’ at ___ ___” (eager) 28 auction bid (2 wds.)

31 TXism: “busier than _ ___-armed cook in a truck stop” 34 TXism: “hissey ___”

35 TXism: “the tail __ wagging the dog” 37 bedside light 40 this Lukas was in “Leap of Faith” with TX-born Martin 43 TX Dan Jenkins 1982 novel: “____ Oklahoma” 44 TX B.J. Thomas’ “The ____ __ _ New York Woman” 50 birds found on the Texas coast 51 TX Charley Pride’s “__ Rather Love You” (1971)

See solutions on page 6

Hays Free Press

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38 49 small piers 52 TXism: “about 41 as clear __ ___ River mud” 53 rowing blade 54 fish propeller 55 med. abbr. for Lou Gehrig’s disease

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Call us with news or feature ideas!

512-268-7862

Opinion Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 17, 2022

Page 4

STATE CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Texas gas prices lowest in nation

While gas prices nationwide dropped below $4 per gallon average last week, the state boasts the lowest prices in the country at an average of $3.49 — 50 cents below the national average, according to AAA Texas.

“Retail gasoline prices in Texas fell for the eighth consecutive week,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “While gas prices will likely keep dropping in the near term, it is unclear how long the trend will last. Demand for fuel jumped seven percent across the U.S. this week and regional fuel supplies fell by around three percent.”

Drivers fueling up in College Station are paying the most on average at $3.72, while those in the Brownsville-Harlingen area have the cheapest fuel at $3.19, according to a report by KWTX-Waco.

Voter registration deadline is Oct. 11 Eligible Texas voters must be registered by Oct. 11 in order to cast ballots in the Nov. 8 general election, according

Capital Highlights

by Gary Borders

to Texas Secretary of State John Scott.

“Even though we’re still two months away from the voter registration deadline, it’s never too early to make sure you’re registered, update your registration information if you need to, and prepare yourself to vote in the upcoming election,” Scott said.

Texas law requires eligible voters to be registered 30 days before Election Day. Since the 30th day before Nov. 8 falls on a Sunday, prospective voters have two extra days to register this year.

Voters can visit the state’s official voting website — VoteTexas. gov — for more information.

Drought conditions now into sixth month By the end of July, drought conditions covered 97% of the state, up 11 percentage points

from the end of June, according to Dr. Mark Wentzel, hydrologist with the Texas Water Development Board. July was drier and warmer than normal, a familiar refrain in 2022.

Storage in the state’s reservoirs is at 71% of capacity, which is 13 percentage points below normal for this time of year, Wentzel wrote. Still, the current drought is not as severe as the one Texans endured in 2011 for most of the state. However, South Texas is faring worse than it did in 2011 since it started the year with its water supply reservoirs already well below normal.

More state resources mobilized for wildfire threats On Friday alone, Texas A&M Forest Service firefighters responded to 15 new wildfires that burned 540 acres. There are five active wildfires throughout the state, the largest being the Pine Pond Fire in Bastrop County, covering an estimated 700 acres and just 35% contained as of Sunday.

The Texas Division of

Emergency Management at the direction of Gov. Greg Abbott has deployed additional strike teams, consisting of 32 firefighters and 10 engines.

“Communities across the state continue to be impacted by dangerously dry conditions that could lead to further spread of wildfires,” said Abbott said.

Burn bans are now in place in 224 Texas counties, out of 254 total.

Scammer posing as TDI employee If someone calls claiming to be a Texas Department of Insurance employee offering to meet at one’s home to discuss insurance needs, it’s almost certainly a scam. That’s according to a TDI news release, which notes the agency only calls people who ask for assistance.

The agency’s fraud unit received a report from a person who was contacted by someone claiming to be a TDI employee and offering to come over and review insurance needs.

“The individual who received the call did the right thing by not

providing any personal information and contacting us,” said Chris Davis, head of TDI’s Fraud Unit. “This may have been an attempt at identity theft or other crime.”

Anyone needing help with an insurance issue or suspecting insurance fraud can contact the TDI help line at 800-252-3439.

All state oil and gas records now online Have you been wondering about that working pumpjack in the strip-mall parking lot in Longview? (Yes, there is one.) The Texas Railroad Commission has recently completed placing all historic oil and gas production records online.

The RRC database covers oil production dating back to 1931 and gas back to 1937. More than 1,300 rolls of microfilm containing about 2.2 million images in the RRC’s central records were digitized.

“This is a significant undertaking and a historic moment for the Commission,” Matthew Herzon with RRC, said.

“Not only does it give the public quick and easy

access to the information, but it can also save staff time that’s spent researching for public information requests.

Requesters can now get historical production information with the click of a mouse if they wish, and our staff can devote time for other tasks.”

COVID-19 cases dip slightly The number of new COVID-19 cases in Texas in the past week dipped slightly to 72,715 with 194 new deaths reported, according to the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University. The Texas Department of State Health Services reported 3,174 lab-confirmed COVID-19 hospitalizations on Sunday, a slight drop from the previous week.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@ texaspress.com.

the Spirit of St. Louis, local business leaders had picked up the tab for the expensive adventure.

As radio listeners across the Lone Star State tuned in for live coverage of the ceremony, Gov. Dan Moody proudly introduced Capt. Erwin as a native Texan overlooking the inconvenient fact that the hero was born in Oklahoma.

Erwin had, however, long since erased this “blemish” from his otherwise perfect record by graduating high school in Amarillo.

Three days later in front of another enormous crowd, the Spirit of Dallas took off for the West Coast only to turn around because of a fuel-system malfunction.

Repairs were completed in record time, and Erwin was again aloft for the 19-hour red-eye to San Francisco.

Exhausted by the ordeal, the pooped pilot muttered, “I would rather take a trip across the water anytime

than make it across the mountains to California from Texas.” But The Spirit at least reached the starting line in tragic contrast to two other aircraft that went down en route. Even before it officially began, the doomed Dole Flight already had cost three lives.

In a fruitless attempt to talk the sponsor and participants into calling the whole thing off, government watchdogs delayed the race for nine days. Dole and the pilots stood their ground though eventually bowing to the feds’ demand that a trained navigator accompany each contestant. This last-minute compromise bumped Bill Erwin’s pregnant wife from the passenger list of The Spirit.

The Dole derby started at noon on Aug. 23. The first plane cleared the runway, but the second and third crashed on take-off. Half an hour later, the Spirit of

Dallas was the sixth and last to wing its way toward Hawaii.

Miss Doran, the Michigan representative named for a popular schoolteacher along for the hazardous ride, soon returned for a fresh set of spark plugs. Moments later the pilot, navigator and petite passenger vanished over the Pacific never to be seen again.

No sooner had Miss Doran reentered the race than the Spirit of Dallas suddenly reappeared with its shredded canvas skin flapping in the wind.

Unable to jettison his 400 gallons of gasoline, the coolheaded Erwin slowly circled the field before gently touching down for a perfect landing.

A second airplane also safely withdrew leaving just four crews still in the running. Of the remaining entries, only two ever reached Hawaii.

Bill Erwin and his

navigator Alvin Eichwaldt joined the desperate search for the missing planes. Over a newly installed shortwave, the talkative pair kept earthbound associates posted on their progress.

At six o’clock that evening, Erwin reported good-humoredly, “Please tell the gentleman who furnished our lunch that it is fine, but we can’t find the toothpicks.” Two hours later the mood changed dramatically, when The Spirit flew straight into the teeth of an unexpected storm.

After an SOS came the alarming message, “We are in a tailspin.” A long pause preceded an encouraging postscript: “We came out of it okay but were sure scared.

It sure was a close call.” But the Spirit of Dallas was not out of the woods.

The navigator interrupted a transmission with the ominous announcement, “We are in another tailspin.”

Mainland monitors huddled around the short-wave anxiously awaiting word Erwin had somehow pulled out of the dive before plunging into the ocean.

But the eerie silence was the bitter obituary for the Spirit of Dallas.

The deaths of Capt.

Bill Erwin and navigator Eichwaldt brought to ten the final death toll of the disastrous Dole Flight.

Much like the space shuttle tragedies six decades later, Americans learned the hard way that new frontiers are never conquered without casualties.

“Texas Entertainers: Lone Stars in Profile” is full of talented Texans who deserve a curtain call. Order your copy by mailing a check for $24.00 to Bartee Haile, P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393.

“Spirt of Dallas” air race casualty

After spending a week trying to convince the sponsor and contestants to call off a perilous Californiato-Hawaii air race, federal aviation officials threw up their hands on Aug. 21, 1927 and reluctantly gave permission for the daredevils to take off.

On the heels of Charles Lindbergh’s sensational New York-to-Paris solo in May 1927, the whole world went crazy over flying. Air races became the hottest spectator sport as the super-

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Texas History

by Bartee Haile

rich offered fabulous pots to barnstormers, who usually risked their necks for next to nothing.

When pineapple tycoon James Dole put up a $25,000 prize for a dangerous dash to Hawaii, a Dallas millionaire promised the same tempting sum to the first flier to make it in one piece from Big D to Hong Kong. Capt. William P. Erwin, a World War I combat ace credited with nine kills, declared his intention to collect the entire $50,000.

Ten thousand Texans gathered at Love Field on Aug. 6, 1927 for the unveiling of the Spirit of Dallas. Eager to duplicate the world renown enjoyed by the Missouri backers of

Editor Megan Navarro (Wehring) Reporters Brittany Anderson Amira Van Leeuwen Photographers Wayland Clark Albert Sanchez Proofreaders Jane Kirkham Marketing Rep Kimberly Fannin Production Assistant Elizabeth Garcia Office Manager Arlene Monroe Circulation/Classifieds Arlene Monroe Distribution Kimberlee Griffon Abbie Dougherty Joe Urbach

NEWS TIPS

CORRECTIONS

DEADLINES

LETTERS GUIDELINES

If you think it’s news, we probably do too!

• Newsroom phone: 512-268-7862 • E-mail: news@haysfreepress.com • Mail: 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640

Any erroneous reflection upon the character, standing or reputation of any person, firm or corporation which may appear in the pages of the Hays Free Press will be corrected upon being brought to the attention of the publisher.

• The deadline for display advertising and any contributed news copy is 5 p.m. Friday the week prior to publication.

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We welcome locally written letters to the editor on timely topics of community interest. We ask that you keep them to about 350 words in length and that you not indulge in personal attacks on private individuals. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity. All letters should be signed by the author and include a daytime phone number where the author can be contacted for verification. Letter writers are limited to one letter per month. Letters can be emailed to news@haysfreepress.com.

Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

Page 5

OBITUARIES

WATER SUPPLY School.

Joan emigrated to the United States in 1955, sponsored by her second cousin, Evelyn Holdsworth of Texas, and started her adventure with her distant cousins, Ethel and Jim Day, at the Day Ranch in Loma Vista, Texas. Joan endured the Texas heat and lack of air-conditioning, wore blue jeans, rode horses, and enjoyed the Texas hospitality and good manners of the cowboys who worked at the ranch.

Joan toured Texas with her many cousins and settled in Crystal City as a receptionist/secretary for what became Del Monte.

Joan returned to England after several years and traveled to Italy, France and Switzerland. In 1963, Joan emigrated again, this time to California, where she met and married the love of her life, Boteler Wood

JOAN SHIRLEY SANDERS Joan Shirley Sanders (Wright), 87, joined our heavenly Father in heaven July 14, 2022, at her home in Buda, Texas. Joan was born on June 3, 1935, the eldest child of Dorothy Mary Holdsworth and John M. Wright in Bradford, Yorkshire, England. She was educated at Bradford Girls’ Grammar School and Stansfield’s Business

Sanders (Bodie). Bodie and Joan traveled all over America, but loved Austin and eventually settled in Buda, Texas, where they celebrated a marriage of 59 years this year. Joan and Bodie joined First Baptist Church of Buda in 1998 where they remained active members until her last illness.

Joan was an avid dog lover and volunteered for many years with the local P.A.W.S. Animal Shelter, writing newspaper articles and the quarterly newsletter, organizing the booth at Budafest, and taking puppies to area nursing homes.

Joan is survived by her loving husband, Boteler Wood Sanders (Bodie), sister Dorothy (Wright) Bracken of Pontefract, England, niece, Rachel Joanna Bracken-Singh, of Jaipur, India, nephew,

Jonathan Andrew Bracken, of Leeds, England, great nieces and nephews, Eve Hannah Bracken, Alexander George Bracken, Daniel Robert Bracken, Morsumi Georgia Bracken-Singh, Ameya Saba Bracken-Singh, and Ianthe Dia Bracken-Singh.

Bodie Sanders expresses his deep gratitude for the loving and enduring care Joan received from Rosamaria Arredondo and Ignacio Arredondo during Joan’s illness. Joan and Bodie request that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to P.A.W.S. of Kyle, Texas and the National Audubon Society. A Memorial Service celebrating Joan’s life will be held at First Baptist Church of Buda, Texas, August 18, 2022, at 10:00 a.m., Rev. Buddy Johnson officiating. All are welcome.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Choosing the right backpack

BY MEGAN WEHRING

related injuries, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

HAYS COUNTY –School is in session. Students have all the supplies they need to succeed but, is their backpack the right one for them?

According to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), young children are suffering from back pain earlier than previous generations – and overweight backpacks can be a contributing factor. A study showed that over 70% of the children surveyed used a backpack that exceeded the recommended 10% of their body weight and of these children, 32% complained of back pain.

In 2017, an estimated 7,800 kids received emergency room treatment for backpack-

How to avoid pain Dr. Brandon Solemsaas, senior staff chiropractor with Baylor Scott & White Health in Kyle, provided some tips to help families choose the right backpack for their student(s) as school starts.

“You don’t want it to be too big,” Solemsaas explained. “The big thing is weight – you don’t want more than 10% of their body weight. For a smaller kid, that’s not a lot of weight.”

“Backpacks are getting lighter than in previous years because classes are turning more paperless with technology,” Solemsaas said. “Fewer books are being carried

Buda, Texas • 15300 S. IH-35 • 312-1615

around, as students use iPads or laptops.”

Solemsaas added that padded straps will go a long way, as well as using two straps compared to just one. Keeping students active for at least 30 minutes a day would be ideal to offset back pain.

“Back pain in kids can be attributed to a lot of things,” Solemsaas said. “I think the biggest thing is not even just the weight of the backpack, but physical activity as well. I think backpacks get over-blamed but you also want to listen to your child and if they start to have back pain, make sure they are wearing it right and not using just one strap or having it too low so it’s putting more stress on either their neck or low back.”

Backpacks on wheels should be used cautiously,

251 N. FM 1626, Bldg. 2, Ste. C, Buda, Texas 78610 312-1917

Sudoku Solution

BAPTIST

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

EPISCOPAL

Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

First Baptist Church-Kyle 300 W. Center St., Kyle Hays Hills Baptist Church 1401 FM 1626, Buda

Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle

A N D M A R WA B

A S T A R

T H E B I T

P U L H A O N H B A J A

E Y E S O F A

S A L T G R A S S T R A I L

Y M B R A L I A N A N D OO T N D A E S T T I E E D R N S

O L G A

L E L S A I N N T I T P L E E H A R D AM S A P S

S-1598

Texas Crossword, from page 3

Buda United Methodist Church Elm Street and San Marcos Join Us Online for Worship* Sundays at 9 am BudaUMC.org facebook.com/BudaUMChurch

Join us in person or online.

Re,,. . Matt Cardona Office 295-6981

512-443-1366 www.HarrellFuneralHomes.com

Buda-Kyle Church of Christ 3.5 miles south of Buda on FM 2770

Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle

Last Puzzle Solution

Now Serving:

 Austin  Dripping Springs  Kyle  Kingsland  Llano

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626

N C A A F I N N L A D D R C P E R I OW A H E S F EM T A S R F I S Y I S H O T O U W

*New Llano Aquisition*

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda

Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda

St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church 725 RR 967, Buda St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church RR 3237 (Wimberley Rd.), Kyle St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 11819 IH-35 South JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses FM 2770, Kyle Jehovah’s Witnesses South 10802 Manchaca Rd., Manchaca LUTHERAN Living Word Lutheran ELCA 2315 FM 967, Buda Redeeming Grace Lutheran LCMS FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca Resurrection Church, CLBA 401 FM 967, Buda St. John Lutheran Church 9865 Camino Real, Uhland The Well Buda Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda

St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle

Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle

St. Michael’s Catholic Church S. Old Spanish Trail, Uhland

Journey United Methodist 216 Kirkham Circle, Kyle

CHRISTIAN

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor

Spring Water!

Privately owned From local springs FREE DELIVERY 1ST 20 GAL. FREE

Vertical Chapel 400 Old Post Road, Kyle A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle

Friendly, Courteous Service

Fellowship Church at Plum Creek 160 Grace Street at 2770, Kyle

Call 1-866-691-2369

Word of Life Christian Faith Center 118 Trademark Drive, Buda

BUDA

Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle

DRUG STORE

203 Railroad Street Downtown Buda Pharmacy 312-2111 Fountain 312-2172

PENTECOSTAL Mision de Casa de Oracion S. Hwy. 81, Kyle New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd. PRESBYTERIAN

Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170

First Presbyterian Church 410 W. Hutchison, San Marcos, TX 78666

First Baptist Church

A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161 Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship....................................10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m.

AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m.

www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626

Pure Texas

New Covenant Community Church 1019 Main Street, Buda (in Dance Unlimited)

Iglesia Israelita Casa de Dios 816 Green Pastures Dr., Kyle

Adult (including an 8:30 a.m. early bird class), teen, children’s classes * Children’s worship Professionally-staffed nursery & pre-school

Providing you with your most important local news for Kyle, Buda and surrounding communities

Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda

St. John’s Presbyterian Church 12420 Hewitt Ln., Manchaca

9:30 a.m. Classic Service 10:45 a.m. Contemporary service

Hays Free Press

Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda

Manchaca United Methodist Church FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca

Baptist Church

Like us on Facebook

Completed & Perfected Faith Church Tobias Elementary Cafeteria, FM 150, Kyle

New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda

Hays Hills

TEXAS LEHIGH CEMENT CO. LP

Trinity United Chuch of Niederwald 13700 Camino Real, Hwy. 21, Niederwald

METHODIST

also silly if we don’t look at what’s happening there.”

The coalition is working to get counties to push the LCRA to update the plan. Neighboring Travis and Burnet counties have given it a green light but a recent vote by the Hays County Commissioners Court on Tuesday, Aug. 9 denied the request.

The resolution would request that the LCRA work with local leaders and stakeholders “to accelerate the update of its Water Management Plan to implement a more protective approach to managing the Highland Lakes.”

Commissioner Walt Smith said he would like to see more representation from Hays County on the Texas Water Development Board – he will continue local discussions about water supply.

We are expanding!

Monte del Olivar Christian Center 2400 FM 150 E., Kyle

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor

Texas Crossword Solution

HAYS COUNTY – Water has become even more precious amid the drought that the state of Texas has been experiencing for months.

Jo Karr Tedder, president of the Central Texas Water Coalition, is starting discussions about updating the Lower Colorado River Authority’s (LCRA) Water Management Plan. While the LCRA is slated to revisit the plan in 2025, Tedder is worried that is too long of a wait due to current weather conditions.

“It would be wonderful if we got rain and didn’t end up in a drought [or] a mega-drought like in California, which has been in a drought for 22 years,” Karr said. “We are Texas; we are not California. But we are

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 3

BY MEGAN WEHRING

Come worship with us

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Debbie Thames, agenT

according to the ACA, and on a limited basis by those who are not physically able to carry a backpack.

They have their own risks including cluttering hallways – which could result in dangerous trips and falls.

If a child is experiencing any ongoing pain or discomfort from backpack use (more than two weeks), parents should call their chiropractor or pediatrician.

“If they have pain for a day,” Solemsaas explained, “some of that is that they are not used to wearing [the backpack] for a while, I would not jump to that they need to see a doctor right away.”

For more information, please visit https:// handsdownbetter.org/ avoid-pain-with-the-rightbackpack/.

County denies early update of water management plan

Nursery Provided

www.firstbaptistbuda.com • fbcbuda@austin.rr.com

Your Hometown McDonald’s

McDonald’s of Buda 15359 IH-35, Ste. B • P.O. Box 1364, Buda, TX 78610

512-312-2383

Locally owned and operated by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning

11:00 AM

Sunday Worship

5:45 PM

Wednesday Meal

6:30 PM

Wed TouchPoint SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries

A Family of Faith... www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org

(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

Page 6

Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

SPENDING

Committee looks at city council’s compensation

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

KYLE — Credit card and reimbursement policies of the Kyle City Council were visited by the Council Compensation Committee.

The Compensation Committee met on Aug. 10 to discuss and review policies related to the city council’s compensation including credit cards, reimbursements and any policies that fall in line with the city charter.

The committee unanimously voted (6-0) to leave the city council’s compensation as is for the upcoming fiscal year.

In the current fiscal year 2021-2022, which ends Sept. 30, the city council has spent $134,006 out of its total approved budget of $224,928 as of July 30.

According to the city’s Director of Finance Perwez Moheet, there is no breakdown of which members have spent that money because they are all combined.

“When you have seven together, not all seven are going to spend exactly the same amount,” Moheet said.

The council members’ compensation is $1,000 per month, and the mayor's compensation is $1,300 per month along with other benefits that include medical, dental and vision coverage.

Premiums are paid 100% by city council members/ mayor individually, if they choose to do so.

The committee also had an extensive discussion about mileage reimbursement, where committee member Rose Burke motioned to

recommend the change of the mileage amount in the budget from $24,570 to $23,000 with a $5,000 limit for the mayor and the remaining $18,000 divided among the six other council members to $3,000 per council member. The motion was seconded

by Brandi Heindl and the recommendation passed (5-1) with Phoenix Askevich voting against.

Although there are no wireless phone expenses proposed in the budget, the compensation committee also explored the idea of giving the city council a cell phone allowance. City staff said they preferred a cell phone stipend.

Currently, the city council’s budget allows for $17,500 for computer hardware (city-issued laptops or iPads).

Notice about 2022 Tax Rates Property tax rates in City of Kyle.

This notice concerns the 2022 property tax rates for City of Kyle. This notice provides information about two tax rates used in adopting the current tax year's tax rate. The no-new-revenue tax rate would Impose the same amount of taxes as last year if you compare properties taxed in both years.

In most cases, the voter-approval tax rate is the highest tax rate a taxing unit can adopt without holding an election. In each case, these rates are calculated by dividing the total amount of taxes by the current taxable value with adjustments as required by state law. The rates are given per $100 of property value.

“A lot of them prefer [city-issued laptops or iPads] because if something happens and there’s an open records request they don’t have to use their own personal equipment for city business,” said Jerry Hendrix, acting city manager.

Committee member Brad Growt questioned why city staff wasn’t giving the city council a VoIP license with a cityprovided phone number.

“From a cost perspective, that would be much better, plus y’all would retain control of the number,” Growt said.

“It’s transparent, and it’s a negligible technology cost that actually makes everything more secure and brings it more under the auspices of the city.”

Heindl motioned not to recommend a cell phone allowance, which was seconded by Askevich, and the motion passed (6-0).

Prior to Aug. 10, the compensation committee had a meeting on Aug. 3 which included frequent back-and-forth attempts to clarify what should

be an allowable expense instead of what city council members should be paid for.

Alison Castillo, a former city council member, said that compensation should only be what a council member has spent to be on the council.

Burke brought up the point about maintaining a professional image regarding outward appearance.

“Some people think they want to present a better image, they want to dress up a little bit and maybe they want to wear a suit or something they would have some dry cleaning and that. Well, normally under regular business expenses, anything like that, that is on you,” Burke said on Aug. 3. “However, I could see where if you were given a thousand dollars, you might take that into consideration, that includes me covering that kind of thing where I want to get my nails done, if I want to get my hair done — you know I want to provide a more professional image.”

Askevich said that the

idea of paying someone a stipend to do their nails does not seem right.

“TV personalities have to get paid for their looks and appearance, but that’s because that’s their professional job,” Askevich said.

Compensation committee members also indicated they were illprepared to review city council compensation due to the lack of provided documents.

“To be honest, I thought we were going to have some kind of packet when I got here. Not to look like I don’t know what I’m doing, but I looked at the packet, and the packet I received was just an agenda,” Burke said.

Committee member Mario Perez agreed with Burke that it was his understanding that the compensation council would be supplied with a draft of the policies.

The Compensation Committee Council will bring recommendations from the Aug. 10 meeting to the city council that include clarification, among other facts, on Aug. 16 at 5 p.m.

$0.4260/$100 $0.5082/$100

This year's no-new-revenue tax rate This year's voter-approval tax rate

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE

To see the full calculations, please visit www.hayscountytx.com/taxoffice for a copy of the Tax Rate Calculation Worksheet.

A tax rate of $0.5082 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of City of Kyle.

Unencumbered Fund Balances The following estimated balances will be left in the taxing unit's accounts at the end of the fiscal year. These balances are not encumbered by corresponding debt obligation.

Type of Fund Balance General Fund

17,364,016

Interest & Sinking Fund

1,855,172

PROPOSED TAX RATE NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2022 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for City of Kyle from the same properties in both the 2021 tax year and the 2022 tax year.

Current Year Debt Service The following amounts are for long-term debts that are secured by property taxes. These amounts will be paid from upcoming property tax revenues (or additional sales tax revenues, if applicable).

Principal or Contract Interest to be Other Amounts Description of Debt Payment to be Paid Paid from Total Payment to be Paid from Property Taxes Property Taxes General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2013 General Obligation Bonds,

66,700

32,337

0

2014 General Obligation & Refunding Bonds, Series 2015 General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2016 General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2020 General Obligation Bonds,

The voter-approval rate is the highest tax rate that City of Kyle may adopt without holding an election to seek voter approval of the rate.

The proposed tax rate is greater than the no-new-revenue tax rate. This means that City of Kyle is proposing to increase property taxes for the 2022 tax year.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON AUGUST 25, 2022 AT 5:30 PM AT KYLE CITY HALL - 100 W. CENTER STREET, KYLE, TX 78640.

99,037

265,000

154,748

0

0

0

0

0

227,557

0

227,557

2,859,064

1,043,607

0

3,902,671

346,390

58,083

0

404,473

565,047

100,094

0

665,141

5,345,000

1,615,000

0

6,960,000

The proposed tax rate is not greater than the voter-approval tax rate. As a result, City of Kyle is not required to hold an election at which voters may accept or reject the proposed tax rate. However, you may express your support for or opposition to the proposed tax rate by contacting the members of the City Council of City of Kyle at their offices or by attending the public hearing mentioned above.

419,748

Series 2013 Tax Notes, Series 2014 General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series

$0.5082 per $100 $0.4260 per $100 $0.5082 per $100

YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE RATES MENTIONED ABOVE CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: Property tax amount= (tax rate) x (taxable value of your property)/100

Series 2022

Total required for 2022 debt service - Amount (if any) paid from funds listed in unencumbered funds - Amount (if any) paid from other resources - Excess collections last year = Total to be paid from taxes in 2022 + Amount added in anticipation that the unit will collect only 99.11% of its taxes in 2022 = Total debt levy

FOR the proposal:

Travis Mitchell, Mayor Robert Rizo, Mayor Pro Tem, District 3 Yvonne Flores-Cales, Council Member, District 2 Ashlee Bradshaw, Council Member, District 4 Daniela Parsley, Council Member, District 5 Michael Tobias, Council Member, District 6

AGAINST the proposal:

None

PRESENT and not voting:

None

ABSENT:

Dex Ellison, Council Member, District 1

Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.

$12,678,627

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

$1,855,172 $0 $128,324 $10,695,131

The following table compares the taxes imposed on the average residence homestead by City of Kyle last year to the taxes proposed to be imposed on the average residence homestead by City of Kyle this year.

$96,041

2021 $0.5082

$0.5082

Average homestead taxable value

$233,901

$338,506

increase of 104,605, or 44.72%

Tax on average homestead

$1,188.68

$1,720.29

increase of 531.61, or 44.72%

Total tax levy on all properties

$20,223,693

$25,906,918

increase of 5,683,225, or 28.10%

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

$10,791,172

This notice contains a summary of actual no-new-revenue and voter-approval calculations as certified by Jenifer O'Kane, Hays County Tax Assessor-Collector on 08/05/2022 .

Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

2022

Change increase of 0.0000, or 0.00%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for City of Kyle at 512-393-5545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us, or visit hays.countytaxrates.com for more information.

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Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

Page 7

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES

ATTEMPT TO NOTIFY COMMERCIAL TOWING SERVICES LLC 271 Millennium Dr. Kyle, TX 78640 / 512-9950468/0658494VSF www.tdlr.texas.gov 2000 Jeep Cherokee/ Last of VIN L211817 Total charges as of 8/15/2022 are $391.06

ATTEMPT TO NOTIFY COMMERCIAL TOWING SERVICES LLC 271 Millennium Dr. Kyle, TX 78640 / 512-9950468/0658494VSF www.tdlr.texas.gov 2019 Ford Transit Cargo/ Last of VIN B35568 Total charges as of 8/15/2022 are $1075.87

PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF CREEDMOOR The City of Creedmoor will hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m., August 18, 2022 at 12513 FM 1625, Creedmoor, Texas to consider adopting a budget for fiscal year 2022-2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Buda City Council will hold a public hearing regarding the following item at its regular meeting to be held Tuesday, September 6, 2022: DA 22-01: Hold a public hearing and first reading of an Ordinance for a Development Agreement between the City of Buda and the subject landowners to allow a primarily single-family development for an area of +/- 775.12 acres in the City of Buda, City of Buda ETJ, City of Austin ETJ, and Travis and Hays Counties.

The hearing will be held at 6:00 pm in the Council Chambers at Buda City Hall, 405 E. Loop St. Building 100, Buda, TX 78610. Please visit the City of Buda website (ci.buda.tx.us) for meeting details and public participation options. The agenda will be published 72 hours prior to the meeting.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Justin Perez-Gorda, Deceased, were issued on July 11, 2022, in Cause No. 22-0130-P, pending in the County Court at Law #1 of Hays County, Texas, to: Josephine Perez-Gorda.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. c/o: David Glickler Attorney at Law Glick Law and Associates 121 Hall Professional Center, Suite A Kyle, Texas 78640 DATED the 11th day of August, 2022 /s/ David Glickler David Glickler Attorney for Josephine Perez-Gorda State Bar No.:

00787549 Glick Law and Associates 121 Hall Professional Center, Suite A Kyle, TX 78640 Telephone: (512) 262-0232 Facsimile: (512) 559-1585 E-mail: david@glicklawtx. com

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Sale of property to satisfy a landlord’s lien.

Sale to be held online at https://storageauctions.com.

Wimberley Smart Storage is located at 706 FM 2325, Wimberley, TX 78676. Bidding will open 8/15/22 at 12am and conclude at 8/29/22 at 12pm.

Cleanup deposit is required.

Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time Before the sale. Unit items sold as-is to the highest bidder.

Property includes the contents of space of the following tenant: Nazdesta Company Unit 42

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE In accordance with the provisions of State of Texas law, there being due and unpaid charges for which the undersigned is entitled to safety an owner and/or manager's lien of the goods hereinafter described and stored at the Storage King USA location(s) listed below, and, due notice having been given to the owner of said property and all parties known to claim an interest therein, and the time specified in such notice for payment of such having expired goods will be sold to the highest bidder or otherwise disposed of at a public Auction to be held online at www.StorageTreasures.com, which will end on August 25, 2022 at 9:00AM. At store 072, 19580 S IH 35, Kyle TX 78640, ph# 737.404.5020.

Luis Davila: furn/shop vac/ boxes Alice Dominguez, boxes/ clothes/mini fridge, Bianca Rivera:tools/tool chest/autoshop misc., Mary Hudson: furn/boxes, Christopher Mercer: duffel/ boxs/sm tv.

Shelma Banke: sofa/tires/ totes, Glenda Castro: furn/boxes/ misc., Ruben Contreras: toys/app/ furn/boxes, Ruby Romo: totes/ ladder, Yovany Daniel Ajuchan Gomez: furn/boxes, Dorothy Crayton: toes/clothes/misc, Jessica Kelsey: furn/boxes/ luggage, Alexis Molina: sofa/ washer/misc.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS REQUEST FOR STATEMENTS OF QUALIFICATIONS RSQ# 22-146 2021 BOND PROGRAM PROJECTS • West Goforth Road Reconstruction Project • Old Black Colony Road Reconstruction Project Sealed statements will be received by the Purchasing Manager of the City of Buda for the above referenced solicitation.

The City presents this RSQ to solicit interest from prospective entities that are qualified to provide planning, design, and construction phase services for

TexSCAN Week of Aug. 14-20, 2022 ACREAGE Own your piece of Texas TODAY! Prices starting at $650/acre. Trans Pecos region. Also the Hill Country (Edwards, Menard, Coke, Val Verde Counties - free ranging exotics), South Texas (Duval County - whitetail, hogs). Large acreage or small.

30 year fixed rate owner financing, only 5% down.

Call toll free or email for individual prices and terms. www.ranchenterprisesltd.com, 800-876-9720.

AUCTIONS Vehicles & Equipment Auction, Wed., Aug. 24.

Kubota tractor items sell no reserve. 570+ items selling, including: pickups, flatbed trucks, forklift, RVs, utility/ service trucks, passenger vehicles, tractors, campers, bucket trucks, lawn mowers and more. All items are sold “AS IS.” 10% buyers premium applies. Aaron McKee TX Lic. #16401. Bid now at purplewave.com.

101-Acre Commercial/Industrial Property – Aug. 30 – 3050 Hwy 16N, De Leon, TX (5 Miles North of Intersection – Hwy 6 & Hwy 16). ExxonMobil directs immediate sale. Low minimum bid: $50,000.

1,367’ frontage on Hwy 16. FineAndCompany.com, 312-278-0600.

Commercial/Industrial Land – Aug. 30 – Real Estate to be sold Absolute, Regardless of Price. ExxonMobil directs immediate sale: 3.7 Acres South of Marilyn St., Conroe, TX; 38,147 SF, 577 W. Santa Fe St., Conroe, TX; 5.37 Acres, Mc Farland Rd., League City, TX. FineAndCompany.com, 312-278-0600.

the West Goforth Road Reconstruction and Old Black Colony Road Reconstruction projects.

The RSQ outlines the process to be used by the City to select competent entities from which the City may negotiate contracts for professional services necessary to assist the City of Buda in the development of schematics, final design, and construction services for the reconstruction projects.

The projects may be funded whole or in part with federal grant resources and thus may be subject to the requirements of 2 CFR 200 and other federal procurement requirements.

The solicitation package may be obtained online at one of the following bid services: www.publicpurchase.com www.bidnetdirect.com Statements shall be delivered in a sealed envelope to City of Buda, City Hall Purchasing Bid Box, 405 E. Loop St., Bldg. 100, Buda, Texas 78610. Write “SEALED STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS” with the RSQ Number, Name, and Due Date on the outside of the shipping package.

Statements will be accepted until 2:00 p.m., September 1, 2022.

Questions may be directed to the City of Buda Purchasing Office via email at purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us Charles Oberrender, CPPB Purchasing Manager City of Buda

REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSALS RCSP # 22-150 CONSTRUCTION OF CITY PARK REWORK Competitive sealed proposals will be received by the Purchasing Manager of the City of Buda for the above referenced solicitation. The City is seeking to enter a contract with a qualified contractor for furnishing all labor, materials and equipment for the project.

Project includes but is not limited to the replacement of deficient material in various electrical, plumbing, amphitheater, restrooms, landscape and irrigation systems.

A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held at Buda City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Buda, Texas 78610 at 2 PM, September 8, 2022 in Multipurpose Room 1034.

Proposals shall be delivered to City of Buda City Hall, Attn: Purchasing Proposal Box, 405 E. Loop St., Bldg. 100, Buda, Texas 78610. Write “SEALED PROPOSAL” with the Solicitation Number, Solicitation Name, and Due Date on the outside of the shipping package. Proposals will be accepted until 2 PM, September 26, 2022. The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible offeror or offeror that provides the best value.

All proposals shall be accompanied a proposal bond in the in the amount of 5% of the offeror’s maximum proposal price.

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Texas Press Statewide Classified Network 221 Participating Texas Newspapers • Regional Ads Start At $250 • Email ads@texaspress.com NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, we cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop.

Contract documents including proposal forms, plans sheets, and specifications for the Project may be viewed and downloaded at: www.questCDN.com www.proposalnet.com www.publicpurchase.com An acceptable proposal bond in an amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total proposal shall accompany each proposal as a guaranty that, if awarded the contract, the offeror will promptly enter contract with the City of Buda and furnish bonds on the forms provided.

Offerors are expected to inspect the site of the work and to inform themselves of all local conditions. The successful offeror or offerors will be required to furnish a performance bond, payment bond, and maintenance bond as stipulated in the specifications.

Questions may be directed to the City of Buda Purchasing Office via email at purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us Charles Oberrender, CPPB Purchasing Manager City of Buda

INVITATION FOR BIDS IFB # 22-149 RM 967 SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS ONION CREEK BRIDGE TO MAIN STREET Sealed bids will be received by the Purchasing Manager of the City of Buda for the above referenced solicitation.

The City is seeking to enter a contract with a qualified contractor for furnishing all labor, materials and equipment for the project. Project includes the construction of approximately 1,500 linear feet of concrete sidewalk, curb ramps, relocation of traffic signs, and pavement markings.

A non-mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at Buda City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Buda, Texas 78610 at 2 PM, August 24, 2022 in Multipurpose Room 1034.

Bids shall be delivered to City of Buda City Hall, Attn: Purchasing Bid Box, 405 E. Loop St., Bldg. 100, Buda, Texas 78610. Write “SEALED BID” with the Bid Number, Bid Name, and Due Date on the outside of the shipping package. Bids will be accepted until 2 PM, September 7, 2022.

The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or bidder that provides the best value.

All bids shall be accompanied a bid bond in the in the amount of 5% of the bidder’s

maximum bid price.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Contract documents including bid proposal forms, plans sheets, and specifications for the Project may be viewed and downloaded free of charge (with the option to purchase hard copies) at www.civcastusa.com on or after Wednesday August 10, 2022. Scanned plans and specifications (PDF format) are available on CD for a non-refundable price of $25.00 from KSA Engineers, Inc., 4833 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 204, Austin, Texas 78759, telephone 512-3426868. Printed copies of the Contract Documents may also be viewed at the Engineer’s office. The solicitation package with plans and specifications are further available electronically at www.bidnet.com and www.publicpurchase.com

Chapter 59 Texas Property Code. River Road Self Storage will conduct a Public Sale to the highest bidder for cash on their premises. This sale is being listed below.

The company reserves the right to reject any bid and withdraw any from the sale at any time.

An acceptable bid bond in an amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid shall accompany each bid as a guaranty that, if awarded the contract, the bidder will promptly enter into contract with the City of Buda and furnish bonds on the forms provided.

Bidders are expected to inspect the site of the work and to inform themselves of all local conditions. time of completion shall be 90 calendar days including Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays.

The successful bidder or bidders will be required to furnish a performance bond, payment bond, and maintenance bond as stipulated in the specifications. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for at least ninety (90) calendar days.

Date: August 27, 2022 (Saturday) River Road Self Storage wishes to avail themselves of the Texas Provision of Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code.

This sale is listed below.

Time: 9:00a.m.

Location: 880 River Road, San Marcos, Texas 78666 Unit #010 Ð G. Garcia Ð floor jack, wheel barrel, folding table & chairs, oxygen tank for welding, tv, weed eater, easy shade Unit #133 Ð B. Crawford Ð cooler, chairs, boxes Unit #138 Ð M. Arredondo Ð bunk bed frame, dresser, end table, fan, tv Unit #264 Ð R. Blaha Ð roll top desk, antique floor lamp, 6 ft ladder, wooden table and chairs Unit #279 Ð R. Scandurra Ð clothes, furniture, household goods, boxes Unit #286 Ð S. Garcia Ð dresser, end tables, bbq pit, totes Unit #303 Ð H. Rivera Ð boxes, furniture, totes, household goods Unit #309 Ð T. Jackson Ð cooler, toaster oven, table, household goods Unit #354 Ð D. Hawkins Ð dryer, baby stuff, household goods, computer monitor

The city reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids, waive any and/or all formalities, and award the bid as it appears most beneficial to the City of Buda.

Questions may be directed to the City of Buda Purchasing Office via email at purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us Charles Oberrender, CPPB Purchasing Manager City of Buda

FOR RENT HOME FOR LEASE Immediate Availability. 3 Bedroom / 2 Bath recently remodeled home for lease.

New roof, new carpet, new HVAC. Located 1 mile from Hwy 281/Hwy 290 intersection. $2,750/month Call Spence (512)789-0909.

DIRECT CARE COUNSELORS Provide positive role modeling, structure, and supervision to adolescent boys. No exp. required, We train comprehensively. Pay starting at $12 per hour for flexible 8 & 16 hr shift schedules.

Health/life/dental insurance after 60 days. Min. requirements: Must be 21 yrs old, HS/GED, clean TDL, clean criminal history, pre-employment TB skin test, and drug screen. Growing (20+ year old) non-profit organization. www.pegasusschool.net.

Call (512)432-1678 for further information.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed proposals addressed to Waterstone Land Partners, LTD, ("OWNER") on behalf of Lasalle Municipal Utility District No. 1 ("DISTRICT") for furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and performing all work required for the construction of Wastewater Line to FM 110 will be received at the office of Doucet & Associates, Inc. ("ENGINEER") at 7401B Highway 71 West, Suite 160, Austin, Texas 78735 until THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2022, at 2:00PM. Drainage, Roadway, and Water / Wastewater bids will be opened publicly and read aloud. Any proposal received after the closing time will be returned unopened. Proposals shall be plainly marked with name and address of the person or entity submitting the proposal ("BIDDER") and the following words: PROPOSAL FOR WATERSTONE PHASE 2 – Wastewater Line to FM 110 The proposed wastewater line will be comprised of 12-inch PVC SDR 26 (D2241) pipe, which will be servicing tract R159874. This tract is located northwest of the intersection of Yarrington Road & County Road 158, and south of the proposed right-of-way for the future FM 110 roadway. This proposal includes approximately: 5917-ft of 12-inch PVC SDR 26 pipe; 18 concrete manholes ranging from 10-ft to 27-ft deep; and three jack and bore locations with 24-inch steel casing. All prospective bidders will be provided all bid documents.

Electronic copies of the Plans, Specifications, and Bidding Documents are available without charge from the ENGINEER. Copies may be obtained from the ENGINEER on or after Monday, August 22, 2022, by emailing waterstonebids@doucetengineers.com.

A Cashier's Check, Certified Check, or acceptable BIDDER's Bond, payable to Waterstone Land Partners, LTD, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the Bid must accompany each bid as a guarantee that, if awarded the Contract, the BIDDER will enter into a contract and execute bonds within fifteen (15) calendar days of award of the Contract. Performance and Payment Bonds shall also be executed on the forms furnished by the OWNER and shall specifically provide for "Performance" and for "Labor and Materials Payment". Each bond shall be issued in an amount of one hundred percent (100%) of contract price by a solvent Surety company, authorized to do business in the State of Texas and acceptable to the OWNER. The OWNER reserves the right to reject all bids and to waive any and all minor defects or irregularitie s in bidding or bidding process except time of submitting bid. The OWNER reserves the right to determine which bids are most advantageous to the OWNER and the DISTRICT, and to award the Contract on this basis. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of seventy-five (75) calendar days after opening of the bids. If a submitted bid is withdrawn within said period, bid guaranty shall become the property of the OWNER, not as penalty, but as liquidated damages, or OWNER may pursue any other action allowed by law. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference will be held on Wednesday, August 31st, 2022 at 2:00pm via Teams virtual meeting. A link to the pre-bid conference will be sent to all prospective bidders who have received bid documents by contacting waterstonebids@doucetengineers.com. Prospective bidders are encouraged to visit the site.

Only those prospective bidders WHO HAVE RECEIVED BID DOCUMENTS DIRECTLY FROM THE ENGINEER may bid on this contract. Copies of the Contract Documents may be obtained from the ENGINEER by emailing waterstonebids@doucetengineers.com.

Page 8

Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

HAYS CISD

Buda chamber hears demographic report

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON BUDA — The most recent Hays CISD demographic report has shown that the district’s growth will irrefutably continue to impact the county’s local businesses and their growth as a whole.

Hays CISD Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright and Chief Operations Officer Max Cleaver presented a demographic report on the district during the Buda Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Aug. 10, highlighting

major trends in the district that show its future growth in schools and homes, and as the local economy booms with companies like Sovereign Flavors and The Boring Company planting roots in the county.

HCISD is one of the largest school districts, land-mass and populationwise, in Texas. Wright said that HCISD has officially surpassed Leander ISD as being the fastest-growing school district in Central Texas.

School districts across Texas have started to

see a steady increase in enrollment, following a sharp decline of 122,350 students during the 20202021 school year due to COVID. This past year, Texas grew by 55,780 students and is expected to grow to around 75,000 this upcoming year.

In HCISD, enrollment is up 1,083 students from 2021-2022, an increase of 5.3%. The district increases by around 1,000 to 1,400 students a year, and there were 22,771 students “in the queue” to start school on Aug. 16.

Hays CISD continues to grow by about 1,000 to 1,400 students each year.

The projected forecast shows 34,151 enrolled students by the 2031-2032 school year.

Min, 3-year-old, Husky/Great Pyrenees mix, Female Min is an expressive and gentle pup. Min recently completed her heartworm treatment with PAWS and is ready to relax, play, and snuggle with her new forever humans!

Pear, Domestic Shorthair mix, Male: Pear immediately greets staff and volunteers once they enter his cattery and is very patient while he waits for pets. He is still very much a kitten and loves to play. Pear has done well with other cats while at the shelter.

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However, two new charter campuses opening in 2022/2023— schools that operate independently from the school district of the area they are located in — could have an impact on this enrollment, as well as HCISD’s ability to hire and retain teachers. There are currently 17 charter schools near or within the HCISD boundary, enrolling more than 5,000 students during the 2020-2021 school year.

Still, the constant influx of new homes is what will really drive numbers to HCISD. The district has 42 active building subdivisions and 34 future subdivisions, and groundwork is underway on more than 6,150 lots within 14 subdivisions.

The upcoming Anthem subdivision behind Hays High School has a projected 2,500 homes, and developers are donating around 15 to 16 acres for the district’s 16th elementary school which is already in the works and set to open for the 2024-2025 school year.

While there are various ways schools can “flex” and incrementally increase their capacity, this is more of a Band-Aid than a permanent solution, and the need for more schools is inevitable.

Sunfield Elementary in Buda’s Sunfield subdivision, which is the district’s 15th elementary school and the 26th in the district overall, opened for the 2022-2023 school year, but the district

is already looking ahead to elementary school #17 in east central Kyle to continue to provide relief and avoid over-capacitating schools.

There is a similar forecast on the secondary level, with capacity at Dahlstrom and McCormick middle schools being increased and Wallace MS potentially increasing.

“As we continue to grow, I want people in our community to understand that I hate bureaucracy; I hate red tape,” Wright said.

“I want people to be valued and heard. Even though we’re growing, I still want to have a small town mentality of, “We’re going to take care of people.” … These are your schools, your children and your tax dollars.”

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Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

Page 9

HAYS CISD’S 15TH SCHOOL CELEBRATES

Sunfield Elementary officially opens

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

BUDA — Hundreds of families gathered inside Hays CISD’s brand new elementary school to celebrate its opening and finally get to take a look into the campus they now call home.

Sunfield Elementary, the district’s 15th elementary school, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Aug. 11. The ceremony was followed by meet the teacher, allowing parents and students to walk through the halls, meet educators and peers and get a glimpse of all of the amenities the school has to offer.

Sunfield Elementary was approved by voters following the May 2021 bond election, with construction on the school beginning the following month. Located within the Sunfield subdivision in Buda, the 117,611 squarefoot campus can house up to 900 students grades kindergarten through fifth grade. The campus also features the district’s next generation prototype of elementary campus design and uniquely offers a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) program.

During the ceremony, remarks were made

by Principal David MacRoberts, HCISD Superintendent Eric Wright and HCISD School Board President Vanessa Petrea, and were later joined by other members of the district to cut the ceremonial ribbon.

Hays County Pct. 2 Commissioner Mark Jones, on behalf of the Capital Area Housing Finance

PHOTO BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Sunfield families were joined by the Hays CISD Board of Trustees (front row) and other local city and district officials during the ceremony.

Corporation, also awarded a $5,000 check to Sunfield PTA. Petrea noted that the Sunfield Elementary community gets to experience the “growing pains” of opening a school following a global pandemic, unprecedented supply chain issues and labor shortages, and that despite these challenges, it is “really nothing short of a miracle that we are in this building.”

“You get to be the first to do all of the things,” Petrea said. “You get to set the culture and climate of this campus. You get to dream up all those events that the community is going to

PHOTO BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Sunfield Elementary principal David MacRoberts, on stage, and Sunfield

come to. You get to come teachers, right of stage, excitedly welcomed hundreds of families during up with all the slogans and the school’s ribbon cutting ceremony. hashtags that everyone’s going to use. You get to start traditions that will continue for decades… I want you to remember this feeling that you have right now; the feeling of excitement and anticipation, the smell of fresh paint. It will wear off, and when the newness wears off and the rhythm has set in, I want you to remember how you feel right now and be a positive voice. Continue to stay PHOTO BY BRITTANY ANDERSON engaged.”

While Sunfield was still getting its finishing touches, it was ready for its first day of school on Aug. 16.

CITY OF BUDA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FY 2023 OPERATING BUDGET

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE This notice only applies to a taxing unit other than a special taxing unit or municipality.

A tax rate of $0.05050 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of Hays County Emergency Services District No. 9.

PROPOSED TAX RATE:

$0.050500 per $100

NO-NEW REVENUE TAX RATE:

$0.044920 per $100

VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE:

$0.046540 per $100

DE MINIMIS RATE:

$0.050500 per $100

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2022 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for Hays County ESD No. 9 from the same properties in both the 2021 tax year and the 2022 tax year.

The voter-approval tax rate is the highest tax rate that Hays County ESD No. 9 may adopt without holding an election to seek voter approval of the rate, unless the de minimis rate for Hays County ESD No. 9 exceeds the voter-approval tax rate for Hays County ESD No. 9.

A Public Hearing will be held at 6.00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 6, 2022. This public hearing will take place in the Buda City Council Chambers located at 405 E. Loop Street Building 100. This public hearing is in compliance with the City Charter. The purpose is to hear oral and written comments and discuss proposed uses of operating and capital funds and to consider adopting a budget allocating operating and capital funds anticipated to be available to the City of Buda during the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2022 and ending on September 30, 2023.

THIS BUDGET WILL RAISE MORE TOTAL PROPERTY TAXES THAN LAST YEAR’S BUDGET BY $1,210,445, OR 16.02%, AND OF THAT AMOUNT $255,941 IS TAX REVENUE TO BE RAISED FROM NEW PROPERTY ADDED TO THE TAX ROLL THIS YEAR. The proposed budget and capital improvements plan can be provided by the City Clerk of the City of Buda upon request anytime between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, or they can be viewed on the City’s website at www.ci.buda.tx.us.

Published this 17th day of August, 2022 by the City of Buda.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend this hearing and express their views to the City Council.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX INCREASE A tax rate of $0.3423 per $100 valuation has been proposed by the governing body of City of Buda.

The de minimis rate is the rate equal to the sum of the no-new-revenue maintenance and operations rate for Hays County ESD No. 9, the rate that will raise $500,000, and the current debt rate for Hays County ESD No. 9.

The proposed tax rate is greater than the no-new-revenue tax rate. This means that Hays County ESD No. 9 is proposing to increase property taxes for the 2022 tax year.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON Monday, August 22, 2022, at 6:30 p.m., at San Marcos Hays County EMS, 2061 Clovis Barker, #10B, San Marcos, Texas.

The proposed tax rate is greater than the voter-approval tax rate but not greater than the de minimis rate.

However, the proposed tax rate exceeds the rate that allows voters to petition for an election under Section 26.075, Tax Code. If Hays County ESD No. 9 adopts the proposed tax rate, the qualified voters of Hays County ESD No. 9 may petition the District to require an election to be held to determine whether to reduce the proposed tax rate. If a majority of the voters reject the proposed tax rate, the tax rate of Hays County ESD No. 9 will be the voter-approval tax rate of Hays County ESD No. 9.

YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE TAX RATES MENTIONED ABOVE CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: Property tax amount = ( tax rate ) x ( taxable value of your property ) / 100 FOR the proposal: Roger Boyd, Chris Baker, Diane Hervol, and Carla Sisk AGAINST the proposal: NONE PRESENT and not voting: NONE

PROPOSED TAX RATE NO-NEW-REVENUE TAX RATE VOTER-APPROVAL TAX RATE

The no-new-revenue tax rate is the tax rate for the 2022 tax year that will raise the same amount of property tax revenue for City of Buda from the same properties in both the 2021 tax year and the 2022 tax year.

The voter-approval rate is the highest tax rate that City of Buda may adopt without holding an election to seek voter approval of the rate.

The proposed tax rate is greater than the no-new-revenue tax rate. This means that City of Buda is proposing to increase property taxes for the 2022 tax year.

A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED TAX RATE WILL BE HELD ON September 20, 2022 AT 6:00 PM AT Buda City Hall - 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, TX 78610.

The proposed tax rate is not greater than the voter-approval tax rate. As a result, City of Buda is not required to hold an election at which voters may accept or reject the proposed tax rate. However, you may express your support for or opposition to the proposed tax rate by contacting the members of the of City of Buda at their offices or by attending the public hearing mentioned above.

YOUR TAXES OWED UNDER ANY OF THE RATES MENTIONED ABOVE CAN BE CALCULATED AS FOLLOWS: Property Tax Amount = (Tax Rate) x (Taxable value of your property)/100

ABSENT: NONE Visit Texas.gov/PropertyTaxes to find a link to your local property tax database on which you can easily access information regarding your property taxes, including information about proposed tax rates and scheduled public hearings of each entity that taxes your property.

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

The following table compares the taxes imposed on the average residence homestead by Hays County ESD No. 9 last year to the taxes proposed to be imposed on the average residence homestead by Hays County ESD No. 9 this year.

2021

2022

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

$0.058190

$0.050500

Decrease of $0.007690 per $100, or 13.22%

Average homestead taxable value

$217,848

$312,899

Increase of 43.63%

Tax on average homestead

$126.77

$158.01

Increase of $31.25, or 24.65%

$3,791,682.03

$4,567,991.50

Total tax levy on all properties

$0.3423 per $100 $0.2844 per $100 $0.3432 per $100

Change

Increase of $776,309.48, or 20.47%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for Hays County ESD No. 9 at (512) 393-5545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us or visit https://hayscountytax.com.

FOR the proposal: Urbanovsky, Ture, Smith, Davidson, Horne-Williams, Daugereau, and Cummings AGAINST the proposal: n/a PRESENT and not voting: n/a ABSENT: n/a

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

The following table compares the taxes imposed on the average residence homestead by City of Buda last year to the taxes proposed to be imposed on the average residence homestead by City of Buda this year.

Total tax rate (per $100 of value) Average homestead taxable value Tax on average homestead Total tax levy on all properties

$0.3423

2021

$0.3423

2022

$296,912

$443,522

$999

$1,500

$7,554,435

$8,764,880

Change no change increase of $146,610, or 49.38% increase of $501, or 50.15% increase of $1,210,445, or 16.02%

For assistance with tax calculations, please contact the tax assessor for City of Buda at 512-393-5545 or jenifer.okane@co.hays.tx.us.

Page 10

Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

BACK TO SCHOOL

DSISD gets ready for students

PHOTO COURTESY OF DSISD

PHOTO COURTESY OF DSISD

Superintendent Holly Morris-Kuentz spoke at DSISD Convocation.

Just like most school districts, the Dripping Springs ISD staff gathered on Wednesday, Aug. 10, for the districtwide back-to-school Convocation event. Employees were treated to breakfast, games, door prizes and a welcome back message.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DSISD

Student performers and volunteers helped host the event.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX RATE Sunfield Municipal Utility District No. 1 (the “District”) will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2022 on September 1, 2022 at 12:30 p.m. at the following location: 1101 S. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite D110, Austin, Texas 78746. Your individual taxes may increase or decrease, depending on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property and the tax rate that is adopted. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX RATE Sunfield Municipal Utility District No. 3 (the “District”) will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2022 on September 1, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. the following location: 1101 S. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite D110, Austin, Texas 78746. Your individual taxes may increase or decrease, depending on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property and the tax rate that is adopted. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

For the proposal: Kindra Poage, Tara Hays, Cynthia Schultz, Leisha Ehlert, and Sarah Vlcek.

Against the proposal: None.

Absent, not voting: None.

For the proposal : Josh Speirs, Gerald Pompa and Ricky Boyd.

Against the proposal : None.

Absent, not voting: Kari Edgar and Ben Godard.

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

2021 2022 Last Year This Year

Total tax rate (per $100 of value) Proposed

2021 Last Year

2022 This Year

$0.90/$100 Adopted

$0.90/$l00

Difference in rates per $100 of value

$0.00/$100

Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/-)

N/A

Average appraised value

$291,764

$318,099

General exemptions available (excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions)

$0.00

$0.00

Average taxable value

$291,764

$318,099

Tax on average residence homestead

$2,626

$2,863

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-) and percentage of increase (+/-)

+ $237 + 9.02%

NOTICE OF TAXPAYERS’ RIGHT TO ROLLBACK ELECTION If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than eight percent, the qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax rate under Section 49.23603, Texas Water Code.

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

$0.90/$100 Adopted

Difference in rates per $100 of value Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/-)

$0.90/$l00 Proposed $0.00/$100 N/A

Average appraised value

$304,777

$342,706

General exemptions available (excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions)

$0.00

$0.00

Average taxable value

$304,777

$342,706

Tax on average residence homestead

$2,743

$3,084

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-) and percentage of increase (+/-)

+ $341 + 12.43%

NOTICE OF TAXPAYERS’ RIGHT TO ROLLBACK ELECTION If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than eight percent, the qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax rate under Section 49.23603, Texas Water Code.

Hays Free Press • August 17, 2022

Page 11

DONATIONS AND GRANTS

Hays County grants ARP funding to HCWC

BY MEGAN WEHRING

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Wallace Middle School Dance Team Co-Captain Kaelyn Ortiz and Lt. Ariella Garza performing a routine in front of the pavilion.

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

DJ 2DQ is announcing the performance of the Wallace Middle School Dance Team.

Shelter program. Not only are we operating at capacity, but we are also now in HAYS COUNTY –The need of additional space to Hays-Caldwell Women’s accommodate additional Center (HCWC) is receiving families at our shelter and a $644,000 grant – which is these funds will ensure we considered to be a blessing are able to meet that dire following the pandemic. need.”

The Hays County This is not the first time Commissioners Court the HCWC has seen support approved the allocation from the county, Rodriguez of the American Rescue explained. Prior to Tuesday’s Plan and the Local Fiscal PHOTO COURTESY OF HCWC contribution, there was an Recovery Fund on Aug. 9. initial $600,000 grant before The agenda item, brought breaking ground on Marla’s forward by commissioners Melissa Rodriguez, Place.

Executive Director.

Mark Jones and Walt Smith, “With the county’s was discussed by the court but not limited to items such support, the citizens of Hays at the previous meeting on as payroll, rent, inventory, County will have access Aug. 2. utilities and interest on to the only transitional “After working with the loans. housing program in our HCWC for almost two years “We appreciate all the community for decades to find a way to address members of the court for to come,” Rodriguez said. the needs for their new making this funding plan “Families served at Marla’s facility, it was obvious that a reality,” Jones said. “This Place will be able to access we had to do something,” grant allows the staff at affordable housing, onsite Smith said. “I can’t tell you the center to provide the quality early education how excited I am that we much-needed services to the for their young children, are able to provide this community, many of which receive counseling services financial relief because were hindered during the for themselves and their the assistance the HCWC pandemic.” children and individualized provides the most vulnerable Melissa Rodriguez, chief case management to work in our community can’t be executive officer for HCWC, on goals to not only heal measured.” explained how the center from their trauma but work The commissioners will benefit from the grant towards self-sufficiency for said they believe the ARP money. their families.” funds are being used for “This funding will restore Last year, HCWC served something worthwhile and funds to our newly opened 2,023 adults, youth and important in Hays County. transitional housing children – 1,539 of those They also acknowledged program, Marla’s Place. were from Hays County and the need to accurately track Building an 18-apartment all received direct face-tohow the funds were used, complex with two Early face services for domestic as the use of grant money Head Start classrooms violence, dating violence, for prohibited expenses or onsite during the pandemic investments may result in an created overages, delays and sexual assault, or child abuse. action to recover funds not unexpected increases that “I feel truly grateful for this spent according to the rules needed to be completed in level of support, especially and laws governing such a timely manner,” Rodriguez during such an uncertain funds. said. “These funds will time in our history,” Grant funds may be used directly impact our ability Rodriguez said. “The for any of HCWC’s normal to deliver programming as nonprofit business sector operating working capital planned to the 18 families is completely dependent uses to mitigate and recover that will need assistance on funding availability and from the extraordinary throughout their time community donations from expenses and revenue with our program. We are individuals, foundations, loss resulting from the also prepared to utilize groups and businesses. shutdowns and other direct the funding to benefit the With our economy and and indirect impacts of community we serve by government funding in a COVID-19, according to meeting the increased state of flux at any given a news release. Working demand for services. One time, it is truly a blessing to capital is the amount of effect of the pandemic has know our community cares capital, which is used in day- been an increased need about the people we serve to-day operations, including, for our McCoy Emergency every day.”

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX RATE Sunfield Municipal Utility District No. 4 (the “District”) will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2022 on September 1, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. the following location: 1101 S. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite D110, Austin, Texas 78746.

Your individual taxes may increase or decrease, depending on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property and the tax rate that is adopted. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

PHOTO BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Gennie Viana and her daughter smile at one another after picking up her backpack from the Kiwanis Club.

SUPPORT LOCAL

Kyle Market Days continue to be successful

BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

KYLE — The Kyle Parks and Recreation Department hosted one of its Kyle Market Days Saturday at Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park.

Community members attending the market strolled through the park while listening to DJ 2DQ and supporting small businesses.

“I come for the plants and for the arts and crafts,” said community member Char Flippo.

About 40 local vendors attended the event.

Arrowmound Studio LLC, a small arts and crafts business that makes handmade clay pins, trinket dishes and stud earrings, and Maravilla Mini Boutique, a boutique that aims to bring culture and color to people’s homes through authentic Mexican Artisanal items, were a couple of the small businesses in attendance.

Political organizations like the Kyle/Buda Area Democrats (KBAD), Hays

County Republicans and Kyle Republicans were also in attendance to help register voters and talk to community members about candidates for upcoming elections.

Aside from businesses, local community organizations also attended to raise money for their organization. The Wallace Middle School Royals Dance Team was selling bags of popcorn and other concession items to fundraise for a second dance competition this year.

After walking around in the Texas heat, community members were also invited to stop and get fresh lemonade from Troop 1948, an all-girl BSA Troop chartered by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12058 in Kyle. People could also purchase food from KnightFire BBQ, a food truck that sells a variety of brisket and pulled pork food items.

The Kiwanis Club of Kyle-Buda was also in attendance to distribute

donations of backpacks filled with school supplies.

Community member and parent Gennie Viana said the Kiwanis Club was helpful in supporting families through challenging financial situations.

“It’s really nice that the community brought us together and gave us a helping hand,” Viana said.

Susan Reyna, KyleBuda Kiwanis Bikes for Books chair, said about 400 kids pre-registered to receive donations.

The organization expects to distribute over 500 backpacks filled with school supplies for each grade level.

“We’re just super grateful to all our sponsors,” Reyna said. The Kiwanis Club had 32 sponsors, including Target, the Kyle and Buda police departments, Johnny G. Barber Shop and the Kyle Area Senior Zone.

The next Kyle Market Days will be on Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park.

For the proposal : Lance LeBrun, Nichol Peterson-Kros, and Ali Jenkins.

Against the proposal : None.

Absent, not voting: Nicole Leventhal and Adrienne Donatucci.

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

Total tax rate (per $100 of value)

2021 Last Year

2022 This Year

$0.90/$100 Adopted

$0.90/$100 Proposed

Difference in rates per $100 of value Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/-)

$0/$100 0%

Average appraised value

N/A

N/A

General exemptions available (excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions)

N/A

N/A

Average taxable value

N/A

N/A

Tax on average residence homestead

N/A

N/A

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/-) and percentage of increase (+/-)

N/A N/A

NOTICE OF TAXPAYERS’ RIGHT TO ROLLBACK ELECTION If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than eight percent, the qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax rate under Section 49.23603, Texas Water Code.

Page 12

News-Dispatch • August 17, 2022

Grandparent's Day is September 11, 2022

Let's celebrate!

Help us celebrate those that make our world a little softer,a little kinder, and a little warmer with our:

2022 Grandparent's Day Edition Publication date: Wednesday, September 7, 2022

For more information, or to reserve your space, Kim at Reserve your ad space by Wednesday, August contact 24, 2022 or Tabloid sizes512-268-7862 and rates: kim@haysfreepress.com.

Potential readership of over 8,000 (including all subscribers.)

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Deadline is Wednesday, August 24

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113 W. Center Street, Kyle, TX 78640 News-Dispatch • 512.268.7862 Full Color Available www.HaysFreePress.com 113 W. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640 Full Page...............................................................$75

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Half Page ..............................................................$60 Quarter Page or Smaller .......................................$50

Fall 20

PHOTO COURTESY OF DSISD

22

BULLSEYE!

Natalie Hong named archery champion

BY MEGAN WEHRING

DRIPPING SPRINGS – A local senior competed at a national archery championship – ranking high above her competitors.

Elimination rounds finished the individual competition at the 2022 JOAD National Target Championship, which took place July 20 through July 24 at the Jack Allen Recreation Center in Alabama. After two days

of qualification, archers went head-to-head in individual elimination matches, leading to the crowning of the National Champions.

Keeping cool under pressure was a theme for several archers, including Dripping Springs High School senior Natalie Hong.

Competing in the Recurve U21 (Junior) Women division, Hong garnered sixth in the qualifications but advanced through the

elimination round to land herself in the gold medal match against Grace Lum, where she won 6-5.

“I kept shooting my best shots and I was patient because I knew it was going to be a marathon. I kept telling myself that at the end of the day, the best shooter would finish on top,” Hong said in a press release.

Full results can be found at https://www. betweenends.com/ tournament/1029/ event/1592.

Hispanic Heritage Edition This special edition will recognize the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of Hays County.

This special edition will recognize the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements This of fullHays County. color glossy magazine will

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For more information, or to reserve Deadline is Friday, September 2. your space, contact Kim at 512-2687862 or kim@haysfreepress.com.

The Fall 2022 Echo special edition will be distributed in the Hays Free Press and the News-Dispatch on September 28, 2022 To reserve your space, contact Kim at 512-268-7862 or kim@haysfreepress.com.

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