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!