Working smoke alarms can reduce the risk of death from home fires by up to 50 percent. To help keep residents safe, the City of Lockhart is partnering with volunteers, local fire departments, and community organizations to participate in the Sound the Alarm initiative, which provides free smoke alarm installations for residents.
This community safety event will take place on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and is open to residents throughout Lockhart. Trained volunteers will install smoke alarms in homes at no cost to the homeowner.
Residents are encouraged to request an appointment in advance to ensure availability.
Event Details:
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Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025
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Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
How to Request Services:
By working together, we can help make Lockhart homes safer and better prepared in the event of a fire.
December 17, 2025
The Lift Fund Buy-Down Interest Program, the Tesla Manufacturing Development Program, a traffic calming request policy, excavation and safety of public Rights-of-Way, and appointments to the Lockhart Economic Development Board were discussed at the December 16 City Council meeting.
Lift Fund Buy-Down Interest Program
City Council received a presentation on the LiftFund Interest Buy-Down Program for Small Businesses, an initiative approved by the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) to expand access to affordable capital for small businesses within the city limits.
The presentation outlined how the program will use a $50,000 interest buy-down fund to reduce borrowing costs on loans of up to $15,000, leveraging LiftFund’s lending capacity to support up to approximately $200,000 in total small-business financing.
The presentation also covered how the program will be administered by LiftFund, desired economic outcomes such as business growth and job creation, and alignment with LEDC’s strategic goals for business retention, expansion, and downtown and small business development.
Tesla Manufacturing Development Program
City Council also received a presentation on the Tesla Manufacturing Development Program for local workforce development, a program approved by the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) in support of its strategic goal to develop a skilled workforce aligned with current and future industry demands.
Led by the Boys & Girls Clubs of South-Central Texas, the program will connect Lockhart High School seniors and recent graduates with a seven-week paid training through partnerships with Tesla’s Manufacturing Development Program and Austin Community College. The initiative is expected to serve approximately 20 students, with marketing planned for 2026 and outcomes reviewed for potential continuation.
Traffic Calming Request Policy
Following direction from City Council, City staff developed a formal Speed Cushion/Traffic Calming Request Policy to provide a formal framework for evaluating neighborhood traffic-calming requests.
City staff presented the draft policy to City Council, outlining eligibility requirements, petition and prioritization processes, and design standards for speed cushions on residential and low-volume collector streets. The policy is intended to slow vehicle speeds for public safety while maintaining emergency vehicle access and establish clear thresholds related to speed limits, traffic volumes, roadway characteristics, and neighborhood support for eligibility.
City Council discussed the draft policy as part of an initial review and provided direction to staff for additional revisions. Staff will return the revised policy to Council at a future meeting for consideration.
Broadband License Agreement Ordinance
City Council approved Ordinance 2025-29 to require license agreements for broadband providers and other private entities seeking to place broadband infrastructure within public rights-of-way. The ordinance establishes a clear regulatory framework to protect public infrastructure, ensure safety, and provide fair compensation to the City for the use of public streets, sidewalks, and related right-of-way areas.
The ordinance requires broadband providers to enter into a license agreement outlining construction standards, permitting requirements, maintenance responsibilities, and coordination with other utilities. Financial provisions include a license fee equal to one percent of gross broadband revenues generated using infrastructure in the public right-of-way, along with insurance and other requirements. The approved ordinance provides the City with consistent oversight and enforcement authority while supporting the orderly expansion of broadband infrastructure in Lockhart.
Nominations to the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation (LEDC)?
City Council approved two nominations to the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) Board of Directors:?
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- Massimo Gerosa, nominated by Mayor Lew White, for a term expiring November 2026.
- Kara McGregor, nominated by Mayor Pro Tem Jeffry Michelson, for a term expiring November 2026.
City Manager’s Report
New Assistant City Manager
Roque Salinas has been appointed Assistant City Manager. He will join the City of Lockhart on January 5, 2026. Mr. Salinas will support City Council goals by working with departments to advance key, quality-of-life and infrastructure, capital projects, provide administrative support for major development initiatives, and strengthen our organization’s continued commitment to deliver high-quality services for Lockhart residents.
Future Indoor Recreation Center
The Parks & Recreation Director, members of the Indoor Recreation Steering Committee, and BRS Architecture toured five new recreation centers in the Dallas–Fort Worth region recently. The group reviewed current trends in modern facility design, programming, and amenity planning. They met with facility management teams to discuss lessons learned during construction, operational insights, and successful program offerings.
BRS Architecture and the Recreation Center Steering Committee also met for the first of three design workshops last week. Committee members discussed and prioritized potential activity spaces for both the planned new recreation center and the renovation of the former Hometown Cinemas building. Looking ahead, the committee will continue refining space needs and program priorities. The next workshop is scheduled for January 21, 2026.
Request for Proposals for Solid Waste and Recycling Services
The Request for Proposals (RFP) for solid waste and collection services was released on November 10. Prospective proposers were invited to submit questions on the scope and requirements. To date, staff and the City’s solid waste consultant, Burns & McDonnell, have received over 60 questions. Responses to these questions have been posted on the City website. Proposals are due December 19.
City Office Closures
Christmas
City offices will be closed on Wednesday, Dec. 24 and Thursday, Dec. 25 for Christmas. The residential and commercial trash pick-up schedule is as follows:
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- Wednesday pick-up will remain the same
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- Normal pick-up schedule resumes Monday.
City offices will return to regular hours on Friday, Dec. 26
New Year’s Day
City offices will be closed on Thursday, Jan. 1. The residential and commercial trash pick-up schedule is as follows:
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- Thursday will be picked up on Friday.
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City offices will return to regular hours on Friday, Jan. 2
Live Christmas Tree Recycling
The City offers free live tree curbside recycling through January 2026. Call the Public Works Department at (512) 398-6452 to arrange for collection. Make sure the tree is free of ornaments, lights, tinsel, nails, screws, or tree bases before placing it curbside. This program only applies to live Christmas trees. Artificial trees will not be accepted.
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ATTENTION: This is a recap of action taken at the December 16, 2025 Council meeting. The complete agenda can be found by visiting lockhart-tx.org?
December 8, 2025
NEWS RELEASE
Contact:
Tatiana Salazar
tsalazar@lockhart-tx.org
(O) (512)398-3461, ext. 2520
(C) (512) 644-9600
Lockhart names New Assistant City Manager
City Manager Joseph Resendez has selected Roque Salinas as the new Assistant City Manager for the City of Lockhart. Salinas, who will begin his role on January 5, 2026, will assist in coordinating and implementing City Council goals, managing key quality-of-life and infrastructure projects, supporting major development initiatives, and addressing city management research needs.
“This is a very exciting time to join the City of Lockhart,” Salinas said. “I look forward to working closely with City staff, City Council, and residents to advance key community initiatives and support Lockhart’s continued progress toward its long-term vision.”
Salinas brings extensive experience in economic development, capital improvement program management, and financial analysis to his new role. He most recently served as Executive Director of Economic Development for the City of Leon Valley, where he oversaw multiple departments and led major redevelopment, housing, and technology initiatives. His background also includes serving as a Senior Budget Analyst for the City of Waco and as a Financial Examiner with the Texas State Securities Board.
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Salinas to Lockhart,” said City Manager Joseph Resendez. “His experience in municipal operations and community development will be essential as we navigate both City-funded improvements and private-sector investment, helping ensure our organization is well-positioned to deliver high-quality services for our residents.”
Salinas holds both a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Public Administration from Texas State University and is currently enrolled in the Certified Public Manager program.
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December 4, 2025
A fuel bid award, nominations to the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation Board, Impact Fee semi-annual report, a subdivision improvement agreement, and a zoning change, were discussed at the December 2 City Council meeting.
Fuel Bid Awarded to On-Site Fuels
City Council approved awarding the annual fuel contract to Energex, DBA On-Site Fuels, Inc. The City uses approximately 60,000 gallons of gasoline and 20,000 gallons of diesel each year, and fuel bids were solicited in accordance with State law. On-Site Fuels is the City’s current fuel provider and submitted the most cost-effective bid among the four received. The new contract term runs from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026.
Nominations to the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation (LEDC)
City Council announced two nominations to the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) Board of Directors:
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- Mayor Lew White nominated Massimo Gerosa for a term expiring November 2026.
- Mayor Pro Tem Jeffry Michelson nominated Kara McGregor for a term expiring November 2026.
Council will consider the final appointment of these nominees at the next Council meeting on December 16.
Subdivision Improvement Agreement with RODG DT Seawillow Prop LLC
City Council approved a Subdivision Improvement Agreement with RODG DT Seawillow Prop LLC for 203 lots within Phase 1 of the Seawillow Ranch Subdivision. Under the agreement, the developer must complete required road work on the internal street network as initial improvements before the final plat can be recorded and finish additional improvements—such as a lift station, detention pond, park space, sidewalks, and roadway upgrades on FM 1322—within 12 months after plat recordation.
The developer must also provide financial security equal to 125% of the cost of the required infrastructure improvements, ensuring the improvements can be completed if the developer does not finish them within the required timeframe. Once the initial improvements are accepted and the plat is recorded, lots may be sold and construction may begin, but no homes can be occupied until all remaining improvements are completed and approved by the City.
Zoning Change – Seawillow Ranch Planned Development District
City Council held a public hearing and approved Ordinance 2025-28, establishing a Planned Development District (PDD) for approximately 89.8 acres at 2400 FM 1322. The zoning change reclassifies the property from a Residential Medium Density District to a Planned Development District for Phase 1 of the Seawillow Ranch project.
The PDD modifies several residential development standards, including increased building coverage and reduced setbacks for certain lots. It also allows limited commercial uses within the planned park area—such as portable food establishments and small food service buildings—which are not permitted under the previous zoning.
City Council approved the zoning change with amendments to the commercial area, specifically to:
- Exclude the sale of alcohol,
- Limit hours of operation to 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.,
- Prohibit drive-through uses, and
- Require signage prohibiting overnight parking.
City Manager’s Report
Downtown Revitalization Project Update
Paving is complete on Market, Main, and Commerce Streets, and all irrigation sleeves have been installed. Paving on San Antonio Street is complete except for the final one-inch asphalt surface required by TxDOT standards, which will be scheduled based on weather. Roadway striping will follow. Installation of new electric outlet pedestals around the Square will begin once the units arrive.
Downtown Tourism and Marketing Campaign
Flat Five Marketing, the City’s marketing consultant for the project, completed a full-day video and photo shoot last week to capture content for the downtown marketing campaign. A diverse mix of downtown businesses was featured. The agency is now producing social media reels to increase foot traffic and support the launch of the Visit Lockhart web and social media platforms.
Geofencing and analytics tools will track impressions and engagement. The campaign will run through December and January, laying the groundwork to expand Lockhart’s online presence as part of a broader tourism strategy.
Indoor Recreation Center: Community Survey
More than 120 responses have been received over the 25-day period since the Community Survey opened. The survey explores program and amenity preferences for a future indoor recreation center. Resident feedback will guide creative direction and inform decisions on renovation of the existing site. The survey has been extended to December 12 to allow additional participation.
Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting
The Christmas tree on the Courthouse lawn has been fully constructed. Standing 22 feet tall with a 2.5-foot star topper, the tree will be lit on Friday, December 5 at 7 p.m., rain or shine.
Lighted Christmas Tree
The Lighted Christmas Parade will take place Saturday, December 6 at 7 p.m., rain or shine. Spectators will enjoy live performances, illuminated floats, and decorated vehicles. City crews are coordinating logistics to assist floats as they navigate the new bulb-outs and medians. The parade will begin on Market Street and continue around the Courthouse Square.
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ATTENTION: This is a recap of action taken at the December 2, 2025 Council meeting. The complete agenda can be found by visiting lockhart-tx.org
The City of Lockhart and the Lockhart Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) are launching an exciting new initiative to guide the redevelopment of several key blocks near Lockhart’s historic downtown district.
The proposed redevelopment area encompasses a multi-block section of downtown located between W. San Antonio Street and W. Live Oak Street (north–south) and Guadalupe Street and S. Church Street (west–east). The area includes property owned by the First Lockhart Baptist Church (FLBC) and the City of Lockhart. Austin Community College (ACC) owns property adjacent to the project area and may join the project at a future date.
To read more about this project, visit the LEDC website: https://lockhartedc.com/site-selectors/downtown-redevelopment-project-2 or click here.