The redistricting timeline, next year’s property tax rate, proposed city budget, and park improvements were discussed in last night’s City Council meeting.

Redistricting Update: The Austin law firm, Bickerstaff Heath Delgado Acosta LLP, acting as redistricting counsel, made a presentation to City Council outlining the timeline of the redistricting process. The firm will start its Initial Assessment on the U.S. Census’ Data in early September, then present its findings to Council in November. Those findings include whether current City districts would require redistricting, based on population. If required, the firm will work with City Council on developing redistricting plans into Spring 2022; by which the public is invited to provide input before the adoption of a final plan. As scheduled, the redistricting process will be completed ahead of the November 2022 General Election.

City Budget: City Council had an extensive discussion on the proposed property tax rate for next year, along with changes in water/wastewater rates, decreasing solid waste fees, increasing cemetery plot costs, and how funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) will be used. Councilmembers considered continuing with the City’s current property tax rate of 0.6354/$100 next year. A public hearing on the proposed property tax rate and City budget is set for Tuesday, September 7, at 7:30 p.m.

Park Improvements: City Council formed an ad hoc committee for City Park improvements consisting of two Councilmembers—Bryant and Michelson—two Lockhart Chamber of Commerce representatives, two Parks Board members, and a representative of the Greater Caldwell County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The City Manager and Public Works Director will serve as ex officio members of the committee. The proposed park improvements include, but not limited to, ADA compliance and upgrading the restrooms and amphitheater.