October 16, 2024
The Lockhart Moving Forward Comprehensive Plan, approval of the Seawillow Public Improvement District, and Gateway Monument Signs were discussed at the October 15 City Council meeting.
Back row (L-R): Councilmember at-large Brad Westmoreland, District 1 Councilmember Juan Mendoza, District 4 Councilmember Jeffry Michelson, District 2 Councilmember John Castillo
Front row (L-R): Mayor Pro-Tem Angie Gonzales-Sanchez, Mayor Lew White, Councilmember District 3 John Lairsen
UPCOMING MEETINGS
October 23 – Planning & Zoning Commission
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Mayor White presented a proclamation to Lisa Watts of Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center declaring October 2024 as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Lockhart Moving Forward Comprehensive Plan
A public hearing was held for the final draft of the Lockhart Moving Forward Comprehensive Plan. After discussion between council members and Planning consultants, the Public Hearing will be continued to November 7th at 7:30 p.m.
Seawillow Public Improvement District
Council authorized the creation of the Seawillow Public Improvement District (PID) pursuant to Texas Local Government Code. The PID will be located partially within the corporate limits of the City and partially within the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) of the City, located north of County Road 197 between Farm to Market Road 1322 and Seawillow Road. The Distract will encompass 588 acres.
The purpose of a PID is to allow development to pay for itself and reimburse a developer for funding certain approved costs related to infrastructure and similar items that benefit the new development.
The general nature of the authorized improvements include:
- Streets and roadway improvements
- Parks and open spaces
- Sidewalks and landscaping
- Water/Wastewater/Drainage improvements
- Design costs, etc.
PID bonds are not obligations of the City-at-large, but rather constitute a charge against the owners of the property.
Gateway Monument Signs
Council members approved an inter-local agreement between the City and TxDOT. With the agreement in place, TxDOT will allow the installation of the City's approved Gateway Monument Signs within the TxDOT Highway 183 and Highway 130 right-of-ways. The project will begin as soon as TxDOT approves the relevant design submittals. This may take about 30 days.
City Manager’s Report
Lockhart’s Population is Growing
Preliminary estimates from Texas Demographic Center (Texas State Demographer’s Office) show that Lockhart’s population may already be at 17,146, marking a 19.2% increase from 2020. The Center also estimates Caldwell County’s population may already be at 51,005, an 11.2% increase from 2020. These are projected numbers that have not yet been finalized. The 2030 U.S. Census will confirm a more accurate representation of the population.
Coffee With a Cop
The public is invited to Lockhart Police’s Coffee With a Cop event. It is scheduled for Tuesday, October 22 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at RBFCU, 1340 S. Colorado. Come chat with LPD officers over a free cup of coffee, sponsored by RBFCU.
Public Hearing for Noise Standards
The Planning & Zoning Commission is holding a public hearing on Wednesday, October 23 regarding noise standards. P&Z will discuss whether the City of Lockhart should change the current decibel limits found in the City of Lockhart Code of Ordinances. A public hearing at City Council will be held on Thursday, November 7.
Splash Pads Closing Soon
The Splash Pads at City Park and Maple Street will close for the season on Sunday, October 27.
Recommendation for Animal Limitations/Microchipping
The Animal Shelter Advisory Board is recommending an ordinance to limit the number of animals on residential properties as well as microchipping regulations. This is an effort to decrease animal hoarding, pet overpopulation, and nuisance complaints within the City. Per the Board’s recommendation, exemptions would be granted to shelters, rescue organizations, and licensed commercial breeders. The recommendation will be discussed at the November 7 City Council meeting.
Next City Council Meeting Rescheduled
The City Council meeting that was scheduled for Tuesday, November 5 is cancelled, due to Election Day. The meeting has been moved to Thursday, November 7.
ATTENTION: This is a recap of the highlights of action taken at the September 17, 2024, Council meeting. The complete agenda can be found by visiting: City of Lockhart, TX (lockhart-tx.org).
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