May 22, 2025

Traffic signal timing at SH 130 and SH 142, Certificates of Obligation for certain capital projects, a professional services contract for the future aquatic facility, the acquisition of permanent utility easements, a neighborhood watch program, and zoning change public hearings were discussed at the May 20 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

Update on Traffic Signal Timing at SH 130 and SH 142

City Council received an update from SH130 Concessions regarding traffic signal timing at the intersection of West San Antonio Street (SH142). Beginning the week of June 2, the traffic signal timing at this intersection will change. The traffic signals have been in place since 2023. SH 130 representatives indicated that crashes at the intersections have decreased since the activation of the traffic signals. Changes are being made now to further reduce delays on eastbound and westbound SH 142.

Traffic message boards have been placed at this intersection to advise motorists about the upcoming change.

Certificates of Obligation for Certain Capital Projects

City Council approved a resolution proceeding toward the issuance of Certificates of Obligation (CO) for up to $20 million to fund certain capital projects. The proposed projects to be funded include the following:

• Design and construction of the new aquatics facility;
• Acquisition and renovation of an indoor recreation center;
• Upgrades to the existing city hall;
• Land acquisition for future police and/or fire facilities; and
• Other improvements to existing City parks, including Lions Park.

Professional Services Contract for Aquatic Facility

City Council awarded a architectural/engineering services contract to Halff Associates, Inc. for design, construction documents, bid documents, operational planning, and construction inspection for a new aquatic facility located at the corner of San Jacinto and Center St.

Acquisition of Permanent Utility Easements

City Council authorized Resolution 2025-17, which authorizes the acquisition of permanent utility easements located on approximately eight (8) separate tracts of real property which are required for the construction of the Lockhart Square Utility Project. The acquisition is required in order to relocate existing electric utility infrastructure.

City Council also authorized Resolution 2025-18, which authorizes the use of eminent domain, if necessary, to acquire five easement interests pursuant to state law. This resolution is also related to the Lockhart Square Utility Project.

Neighborhood Watch Program

The Lockhart Police Chief presented information to the City Council about the benefits of developing a city-wide Neighborhood Watch Program. Neighborhood Watch is a proven crime prevention strategy that encourages residents to take an active role in safeguarding their neighborhoods by working collaboratively with law enforcement.

The Lockhart Police Department plans to hold a community meeting on June 18 at 6 p.m. for those interested in starting a neighborhood watch group. More details about the meeting will be announced in the coming weeks.

Bilingual Pay for Police Officers & Firefighters

City Council approved an ordinance that establishes bilingual assignment pay for police officers and firefighters. The assignment pay, an additional $0.75 per hour, will be available to eligible employees who pass a standardized language proficiency exam. The City will also extend the bilingual assignment pay to 9-1-1 dispatchers.

Zoning Change Public Hearings

• City Council approved a zoning change request by Chris Harris for the property at 729 S. Colorado St. of 0.25 acres, from a Residential Medium Density District to a Commercial Heavy Business District.
• City Council considered a zoning change request by Mario Gutierrez for the property located at 820 Fifth St. of 0.25 acres, from a Residential Medium Density District to a Commercial Light Business District.

City Manager’s Report

Airport Paving Project Update

Airport paving contracts (Lone Wolf) have begun chip seal process at Lockhart Municipal Airport. The project also includes repaving and re-striping of the taxiway and runway. The estimated completion date is May 30, weather permitting. Pilots will be alerted about the project via Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).

Lockhart ISD Middle School No. 2

The City of Lockhart, Lockhart ISD, and Seawillow Development consultants met to discuss calendar of events leading up to construction of a second middle school. The exterior features will include a courtyard, soccer/football field, and an amphitheater. The interior features will include 262,000 square feet of space, two drop-off areas, a two-story building, cafeteria, library, laboratories, and an indoor stage. The tentative plan is for the campus to be completed by August 2027. 

The new school is expected to have 900 students enrolled for its inaugural year. The campus will have a maximum capacity of 1,200 students.

Interlocal Agreement (ILA) for New Aquatic Center

The Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with Lockhart ISD provides 8.1 acres adjacent to Navarro Elementary School to the City to use for Aquatic Center and a potential future recreation center. The ILA outlines responsibilities, including operations and maintenance.

The two parties will collaborate to provide programming for Lockhart residents and Lockhart ISD students. The ILA was unanimously approved at LISD’s May 19 board meeting. The ILA will be presented to City Council on June 3.

Balcones Real Estate Begins Construction

Balcones Real Estate has begun construction at the corner of Cahill and Dewitt St. at 130 Industrial Park. The 58,000 square foot building will have four units available for lease. The building is designed for small to medium sized manufacturers. A “tilt-wall” celebration is expected in June. The building will take approximately seven months to construct.

Ziegenfelder Grand Opening

Ziegenfelder’s fourth plant opened in Lockhart on May 15 at 2707 Dewitt St. Currently, the company has a staff of 75 and expects to have a total of 100 employees after additional production lines come online. Approximately 300 million frozen treats will be produced annually at the Lockhart plant.

City Pool Opening for the Season

City Pool will open Saturday, May 24 at 12 p.m. The first two free swim days will take place on Monday, May 26 (Memorial Day) and Friday, July 4.

Summer Fan Program 2025

Free box fans are available to eligible residents. To be eligible, people must be:

•             Aged 65 or older

•             A Lockhart resident

•             Have a disability

•             Didn't receive a fan from the 2024 Summer Fan Program

The program is available while supplies last. Those who wish to receive a fan may visit City Hall or call 512-398-3461.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

This annual event will take place Saturday, June 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at City Park, 504 E. City Park Rd. Used electronics will not be accepted. For a full list of eligible items and instructions, please visit: https://www.lockhart-tx.org/page/article/668

City Offices Closed for Memorial Day

City offices will be closed Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day. Solid waste pick-up services will continue as scheduled. The City will resume regular hours on Tuesday, May 27.

ATTENTION: This is a recap of the highlights of action taken at the May 20, 2025 Council meeting. The complete agenda can be found by visiting: City of Lockhart, TX (lockhart-tx.org).

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