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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October 4, 2024
The Texas Monthly BBQ World’s Fair, Austin Community College ballot initiative, wastewater discharge permit applications, appointments of Election Judges, adoption of the Water/Wastewater Master Plan, and an airport hangar lease extension, were discussed at the October 3 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
Manufacturing Month
The Mayor presented a proclamation to Rachel Sotelo of Texas Workforce Commission and Holly Malish of the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation recognizing Manufacturing Month.
Recognition of Donation from Lockhart Animal Foundation
The Mayor recognized the Lockhart Animal Foundation for their donation of equipment and supplies valued at approximately $15,000 to develop a surgical suite at the City of Lockhart / Caldwell County Animal Shelter.
Presentation by Texas Monthly Regarding Upcoming BBQ World’s Fair
A representative of Texas Monthly, which hosts the BBQ World's Fair, spoke to City Council about what to expect during this year’s event, which is planned for November 2-3, 2024.
Austin Community College Presentation About Upcoming Election Item
Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart and Dr. Chris Cervini of Austin Community College (ACC) spoke to councilmembers about their ballot initiative to annex Lockhart ISD territory.
Approval of Water Discharge Permit Applications
Council held a discussion regarding approval of Wastewater Discharge Permit Applications for submission to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Council authorized the Mayor to sign all application documents related to this five-year renewal.
Appointments of Election Judges
Council accepted the appoints of Election Judges for the upcoming November 5, 2024 election.
Adoption of the Water/Wastewater Master Plan
Council adopted its first integrated water and sewer master plan. The plan is essential in order to keep pace with population growth, meet state/federal regulations, deliver safe, reliable and affordable service, and protect public health.
The master plan is a road map consisting of a series of programs and capital improvements to undertake over the next 20 years.
Hangar Lease Extension – Lockhart Municipal Airport
The hangar lease extension for a Lockhart Municipal Airport tenant was passed. Council approved new rental rates for the hangar structure as well.
City Manager’s Report
Vandalism at Park Facilities
The City Manager informed Council about vandalism that occurred on September 11 at the Soccer Complex bathrooms on Maple St. Two sinks and one urinal were damaged. The fixtures of the bathroom have been replaced and new doors have been ordered. Lockhart Police are currently reviewing surveillance video provided by Lockhart ISD and may have a potential suspect on camera. The City Manager noted that parents or guardians may be held responsible for restitution of damaged property. City staff have advised that some potential strategies to prevent this from occurring again include installing stainless steel fixtures, surveillance cameras, automatic electronic locks for restrooms, and enhanced lighting.
New Ladder Truck Expected Soon
The new ladder truck is in the final stages of production and is expected to be in service in January 2025. The five functions of the aerial apparatus are a 1,500-gpm fire pump, 475-gallon water tank, 500’ of supply fire hose, 75’ aerial device, and a complement of ground ladders.
The ladder truck can be used for rapid response, ventilation, rescue, and extinguishment operations. It also provides access to second story and higher buildings and their roofs. The new truck will provide an effective way to deploy large flows of water above a commercial structure.
Lockhart Looking Forward
The Planning and Zoning Commission has reviewed comments on the comprehensive draft plan and has recommended approval. More than 30 online comments have been submitted. The public comment period will close on Tuesday, October 8. The final draft, comments, and comment responses will be ready for Council to review and possibly adopt on Tuesday, October 15.
Coffee with a Cop
The public is invited to attend Coffee with a Cop on Tuesday, October 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at RBFCU, 1340 S. Colorado. Attendees will be able to chat and connect with Lockhart Police officers. Free coffee will be provided by RBFCU.
National Night Out
Seven neighborhoods and communities in Lockhart participated in this year’s National Night Out. Residents were able to get to know their local police officers, firefighters, and EMS professionals.
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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National Night Out events and block parties will kick off at various times this evening around Lockhart. Connect with Lockhart Police, Fire, and EMS and get to know your first responders!
- Golden Age Home (1505 S. Main St.): 3-5 p.m.
- San Jacinto (513 San Jacinto St.): 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Blake’s Cove (Blake’s Cove Cul-de-Sac): 6-8:30 p.m.
- First Baptist Church (514 Neches St.): 6-8 p.m.
- St. Mary’s Catholic Church (205 W. Pecan): 6-8:30 p.m.
- Cibilo (407 Cibilo) - 6:30-9 p.m.
We can't wait to see you there!