August 21, 2025
An update on ACC in Lockhart, an ILA to provide SROs to Lockhart ISD, a potential residential parking permit program, an update on the renovation of Fire Station No. 1, the 250th Independence Day Planning Committee, a Special Use Permit denied, and the proposed FY 2025-26 budget were discussed at the August 19 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 Austin Community College (ACC) in Lockhart
City Council received a presentation from ACC Vice Chancellor Dr. Chris Cervini regarding progress on the new campus in Lockhart.
No later than January 2026, ACC will offer in-person classes at the former Ford Building, 303 W. San Antonio St. The building will be able to accommodate 150 people, including students, faculty, and staff. Some of the courses students will be able to take at the Lockhart campus include core basics like English, History, and Art, as well as trade courses, such as welding, automotive tech, plumbing, and more.
Interlocal Cooperation Agreement (ILA) with Lockhart ISD (LISD)
City Council approved an ILA with LISD to continue the School Resource Officer (SRO) program during the 2025-2026 school year. The ILA will allow both entities to share the cost of assigned personnel, equipment, and training. SROs will maintain their law enforcement authority under the Lockhart Police Department while collaborating with school administration on safety strategies, crime prevention, and emergency response.
Residential Parking Permit Program
The Police Chief informed the City Council about a potential Residential Parking Permit Program intended to address parking concerns in residential areas. Participation in the program would be voluntary. Permit areas would only be created if property owners petition for them. In those designated areas, on-street parking would be restricted to vehicles displaying valid city-issued permits.
The permit program would need to be supported by at least 60% of affected properties. Desired permit restrictions can vary, including days of the week, times of day, and length of time that parking permits would be enforced. This is up to property owners to propose.
Enforcement will be carried out by the Lockhart Police Department. The ordinance includes procedures for establishing, modifying, or removing designated permit areas.
The item was tabled to allow the Chief to gather additional information.
Fire Station No. 1 Renovation
City Council approved a construction contract with D. Wilson Construction Co. for the remodel of Fire Station No. 1, which was built and has been in service since 1914. Components of the renovation project include asbestos removal, roof tile replacement, new paint that matches the historic look of the building, wall repairs, plumbing, HVAC work, and electrical system upgrades. Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2025 and conclude in May 2026. The extended timeline reflects longer lead times for procurement of certain materials, particularly windows. The exterior improvements are consistent with the guidelines set by the Historic Preservation Commission.
250th Independence Day Planning Committee
City Council appointed community members and council members to the 250th Independence Day Planning Committee. The committee will meet to explore and possibly plan activities to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Public Hearings
Accessory Dwelling Unit
A public hearing was conducted regarding an appeal to the Planning and Zoning Commission’s (P&Z) approval of a Specific Use Permit (SUP) application. The applicant sought an SUP to allow an accessory dwelling unit (general type) at 614 E. Live Oak St. P&Z had previously approved the application. City Council upheld the appeal, ultimately, denying the Special Use Permit.
Proposed FY 2025-26 Budget
City Council held the first public hearing for the proposed City of Lockhart FY 2025-26 Budget. The second hearing will be held at the next regular Council meeting on September 2.
City Manager’s Report
Downtown Revitalization Project Updates
Stop Signs
New stop signs are in place and active around the Downtown Square. Temporary safety flags are attached to help driver identify the traffic change. A police message sign trailer is out on San Antonio, near Church St., to alert drivers of the change. Parking is no longer allowed on the medians of Commerce St. and Main St. Other median parking will be phased out in September. One warning was issued to a driver last weekend for running a stop sign.
Progress Status
The following list details the progress of various components of the project as of early August:
- Water (100%)
- Wastewater (95%)
- Drainage (100%)
- Streets (56%)
- Bulb-outs (100%)
- Sidewalks/Curbs/Medians (70%)
- Irrigation/Landscaping (5%)
Recruitment Underway for Next Assistant City Manager
A search firm has begun comprehensive statewide recruitment for the City’s next Assistant City Manager. Applications are due by September 5.
City Pool and Splash Pads Closing for the Season
City Pool will close on Sunday, August 31. The splash pads will remain open throughout the week until Sunday, October 26.
Coffee With a Cop
Coffee With a Cop was held on Wednesday, August 20 at Ace Hardware. We thank Ace for allowing us to host this community event at their store.
ATTENTION: This is a recap of the highlights of action taken at the August 19, 2025 Council meeting. The complete agenda can be found by visiting: City of Lockhart, TX (lockhart-tx.org).
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