Members of the Dripping Springs High School varsity winter guard pose following their performance at the Texas Color Guard Circuit (TCGC) State Championships held April 18, 2026, at Strahan Arena in San Marcos, where the team earned a fifth-place finish in Scholastic National A competition. The DSHS Tiger Band program’s winter guard capped the season with the top-five placement among statewide competitors. Senior captain McKenzie Culberson was also recognized individually as a 2026 TCGC Scholarship recipient. Photos courtesy of DSISD

Creative endeavors - painting, writing, music, and such - tend to be solo experiences. The Dripping Springs Art League created socials, Clubs, exhibits, markets, classes, and more to serve the hundreds of local artists and their interests to meet, create, and market their art within their hometown.

Celebrating Art in Dripping

In November of 2024 the fledgling Dripping Springs Art League hosted a gala to celebrate our first year and the amazing art and artists who call Dripping Springs home. It was a great time with 130 members, friends, and sponsors joining the lively evening.

However, after the event we felt we needed to raise the bar, expand the scope, and make a statement. Thus, ‘Night to Inspire: Color Our World!’ was born.

On April 16th, we stepped it up:

• We relocated from a local winery to Dripping Springs Ranch Park’ Main Event Room
• We welcomed over 260 artists and community members to join the evening
• We featured 9 live artists and 3 demo artists sharing their talents and inspiration throughout the evening
• We partnered with the artists of the Appamada School, Ledgestone Senior Living, and Marbridge Foundation to ensure a cross-section of local talent was on display
• We showcased nearly 500 pieces of art from 100 local artists

Our modest 2024 celebration transformed into the marquee art event of the year for Dripping Springs and the Hill Country!

The Art League certainly achieved our objective to raise awareness of the arts in Dripping, to highlight the tremendous talent across all art mediums, and to raise funds to support our dynamic programming for the year ahead.

Community Mobilization

Yet perhaps what is most gratifying, is the mobilization of so many members to dream, plan, create, and execute such a large event.

• About 20 of our members energetically developed our concept of a marquee community art event in the fall of 2025
• Over a dozen of our Club leaders gathered art from our members for display
• 35 volunteered during the evening to provide customer service at check-in, with guest questions and art purchases, and with wrapping and checkout

• 

• Two dozen artists and family members filled the yeoman’s task of moving all the infrastructure - art racks, tables, weights, lights, and more - to DSRP and back within a 24 hour period

By the time the week concluded over 90 people, more than a third of our members, chipped in! 

Compelled to Serve

Why do people mobilize?

I believe people want to be a part of a community effort - something big, something transformative, something that feels good!

And those drivers are not just fulfilled for a Night of art and inspiration, and not just for our other large events like the Art Lounge at Songwriters Festival in October or our West of Weird Art Tour in February, but for the dozens of other events - large and small - throughout the year. 

What’s Next?

We welcome the broader Dripping Springs community - artists and art lovers alike - to join us. Explore your creative side. Find your tribe. Share your vision. Find your cause. 

So after we all catch our breath a little, we’ll be prepared to raise the bar once again. To help ensure our community which is filled with history, culture, and stories also has a splash of color year round!

This will set the Lady Tigers up for a much tougher match in the Area round. It will be with SA O'Connor (26-4). They are ranked 19th in the state while the Lady Tigers are 18th. It is a matchup that deserves to be played later in the playoffs but it happens at times that a good team goes out early.

In the first game it looked like Cedar Ridge might try to make a game of it when a homerun gave them a 3-1 lead after two. Sadie Bradford shut them down from that point and the Lady Tigers started piling up the runs for the win. Emma Phillips loved the pitching. She had four hits, a homerun and four RBI's. The next game ended quickly as the Lady Tigers scored eleven runs in the second and third and that was enough to invoke the ten-run rule after five.

Vs CR1: Hits: Phillips 4, Lauren Byrnes 2, Alex Wiatrek 2, Lorelei Gamble 2, McKenna Riley, Lillian Wearden, Bradford. 2B: Gamble. WP: Bradford 7IP, 6H, 3R, 3ER, 3W, 8K, 1HR.

Vs CR2: Hits: Tatum Green 3, Brooklyn Reiling 2, Mc Riley 2, Wiatrek 2, Phillips 2, Byrnes, Lyla Dusing, Addie Glenn, Wearden, Gamble. HR: Phillips. WP: Green 5IP, 8H, 1R, 1ER, 2K.

The Pound House Farmstead Museum will host its annual Pioneer Day event on Saturday, May 16, offering a full day of hands-on activities, historical demonstrations and live entertainment celebrating early Texas Hill Country life.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pound House Farmstead, 419B Founders Park Road, and will commemorate 171 years of the historic site along with the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Jeanne Polk, president of the Pound House Farmstead Board of Trustees, said the return of the event has been highly anticipated by past attendees.

“I cannot be happier to host the Pioneer Day event once again at the Pound House Farmstead,” Polk said. “Those who have attended in the past have frequently asked me when can I add back a Pound House Pioneer Day to the spring calendar. Come join the PHF Board members, volunteers, and the Dripping Springs community.”

Visitors will be able to explore the historic property, which includes a restored farmhouse, smokehouse, arbor, windmill, rock walls and garden areas. The site offers a living depiction of 19th-century rural life, including the well-known “Heritage Oak,” estimated to be more than 500 years old, and antique roses dating back to 1853.

The event will feature a wide range of activities for all ages. A dedicated children’s area will include crafts and experiences such as candle dipping, corn husk dolls, musical instrument demonstrations, leather stitching, archaeology activities, corn shelling and grinding, and butter churning. Traditional games like dominoes, checkers, chess, stilts, hoop and stick, gunny sack races and corn cob toss will also be available.

Demonstrations throughout the day will include Dutch oven cooking, soap making, blacksmithing, quilting, weaving and spinning, as well as a Texas Parks and Wildlife Buffalo Soldier program and Native American hoop dancing. A one-room schoolhouse exhibit will also be open, along with historic home tours.

Additional attractions include hayrides, live music performances by Alex Dormont, Ryker Pantano and Randall McKinney, food vendors, nonprofit booths and a variety of shopping opportunities.

Fundraising efforts tied to the event will include a vintage rummage sale, silent auction, sweet shop, provisions store, quilt sale and handmade jewelry.

Brenda DeWitt, the museum’s farmstead manager, encouraged residents and visitors to attend.

“Join us in celebrating 171 years of Pound House Farmstead history and America’s 250th year anniversary,” DeWitt said.

Advanced discount tickets are available at phfmuseum.org. For more information, call 512-858-2030.

The Pound House Farmstead is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been a Texas State Historical Landmark since 1965. It has operated as a museum since opening to the public in 2003 and continues to serve as a center for historical education and community gatherings.

The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools that expand access to Advanced Placement (AP) courses while supporting students in achieving college readiness and success. Research shows that students who take AP courses and exams are more likely to attend college and graduate on time. Students who enter four-year colleges with credit from AP exams accelerate their path to graduation and build confidence for college success.

Dripping Springs High School previously earned Bronze recognition on the 2024 AP School Honor Roll, its first time being honored since the program launched in 2023.

For a campus to be recognized on the AP School Honor Roll, they must meet the following criteria: College Culture: 40% or more of the graduating cohort took at least 1 AP Exam during high school.

College Credit: 25% or more of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least 1 AP Exam during high school.

College Optimization: 2% or more of the graduating cohort took 5 or more AP Exams during high school. At least 1 of those exams was taken in 9th or 10th grade, so that students are spreading their AP experience across grades rather than feeling disproportionate pressure in any single year.

“We have worked on this initiative for a long time, and our partnership with Hill Country, our mental health authority, has been exceptional,” agenda item sponsor and Precinct 1 Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe said. “This is a curriculum-driven, evaluative, and therapeutic restoration program that will provide meaningful services and support to individuals in need.”

Under Texas law, individuals must be competent to proceed in court, meaning they can understand the charges against them, assist their defense attorney, and meaningfully participate in their legal strategy. Currently, individuals who are found incompetent often face long delays awaiting placement in a state hospital for treatment. In the Hays County Jail, delays can stretch to nearly 300 days.

“This is a major issue not just in Hays County, but across our state and country,” said Landon Campbell, Division Chief Assistant Criminal District Attorney. “Right now, people are sitting in our jail, not moving forward with their cases, not able to defend themselves, and simply waiting for treatment.”

The newly approved program enables Hays County to collaborate with its local mental health authority to offer competency restoration services directly within the Hays County Jail, thereby eliminating the need to wait for placement in the state hospital system.

“Jail-Based Competency Restoration short-circuits a system that is not meeting the needs of our community,” Campbell said. “Instead of waiting nearly a year for treatment, we can provide those services right here, right now.”

The program is designed not to push individuals more quickly through the justice system, but to connect them with appropriate care and expand access to diversion and treatment- focused court options.

The Commissioners Court also emphasized the program’s fiscal responsibility. Housing an individual in jail for approximately 300 days can cost taxpayers an estimated $45,000, often without any progress toward treatment or case resolution.

“We’re spending significant taxpayer dollars while getting nothing in return,” Judge Ruben Becerra said. “Anything we can do to shorten that timeline is absolutely worth pursuing.”

The program will be funded through a state grant awarded to Hill Country Mental Health, which will embed forensic mental health professionals within the Hays County Jail to provide curriculum-driven, therapeutic and evaluative competency restoration services. The county’s primary financial responsibility will be related to medications, which will be provided through existing jail healthcare contracts.

Michelle Salmire, Director of Forensic Services for Hill Country Mental Health and HVD Centers, said similar programs have shown strong results.

“In our neighboring county, we’re seeing a 75% success rate in restoring competency within 60 days or less, sometimes even within 30 days,” Salmire said. “This partnership has the potential to make a real difference for the 24 individuals currently waiting for services in Hays County.”

Officials expressed appreciation for the collaboration among the Commissioners Court, District Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, Hill Country Mental Health, and jail medical provider WellPath.

”I am pleased that we have reached a point where there is a shared understanding of the significant benefits this program will deliver,” Ingalsbe said.

The Jail-Based Competency Restoration Program is expected to begin implementation in the coming months, with county officials committed to providing updates as it moves forward, according to a Hays County press release.

“We just had two weeks off so obviously there was a need that a lot of people had for fresh fruits or vegetables and meats,” Reed said. “But a lot of vendors were commenting that they saw new faces. It’s a good start to the year and hopefully it continues.”

Reed said that the last market right before Christmas was the number one grossing market of all time, in part because people were stocking up for the break and also because holidays often revolve around meals and cooking.

At this market, Songland Farms was the only vegetable vendor for the week, and they were sold out of all their produce within the first hour.

“The line for him in the beginning of market went all the way from his booth on this wall across to the other side the longest line I’ve ever seen here at market,” Reed said.

During the winter season, when fresh fruits and vegetables are less available, the various meat vendors often take center stage. One of those is True Bird Farm, owned by Ty and Sara Burk. They have been raising chickens for some time, but started getting serious about making it a business around 2020. Their farm is located in Driftwood, and in addition to serving a variety of local farmers markets, they also provide poultry for some big-name restaurants in Austin.

“A number of them have Michelin Star awards, so that’s been really impressive,” Ty said. “This last week we actually ate at Olamaie for the first time, and they prepared our chicken. It’s like a stuffed chicken breast. It’s fantastic. One of the best ways we’ve ever had our chicken.”

They also serve Emmer & Rye and Hestia. Emmer & Rye is one of only two Michelin Green Stars in the state of Texas. Those are awarded for outstanding sustainable gastronomy and eco-friendly practices, combining culinary excellence with strong ethical and environmental commitments - such as sourcing locally and seasonally. Hestia also has a Michelin Star.

“These restaurant partners are fantastic,” Ty said. “They understand what it means to be a local producer and go through the seasonality that happens here in Texas, especially with the heat of the summer, floods and rains, so they’ve been great business partners.”

True Bird’s chicken is pasture raised and fed an organic soy-free diet. Ty said that makes the chicken have a juicier, cleaner chicken taste profile and a better texture.

“Just about every aspect, aside from being technically the same animal and protein, is going to be a significant difference,” Ty said.

Another long-time meat vendor at the market is Grey Skelley of Shipps Lake Ranch in Smithville. She’s a 71year-old who started ranching in 2011. All of her cows are grass-fed on the family’s 100 acres.

“They don’t get any corn or any grains or any other types of food that would make the meat different,” Skelley said.

She said that with grass fed meat, the cows are getting their oils from the grass, which makes for a more natural fat. Skelley said that while grain-fed beef has more marbling, the fats are not good for your heart.

“It’s just two different types of meats and what you prefer,” Skelley said.

Before she started ranching, Skelley operated a native plant nursery. After a prolonged period of drought, she decided to close that down and move into ranching.

“I had no clue about cattle or beef, nothing. So I had to go to different friends and people that were in the business to learn the right way,” Skelley said.

In addition to her grass-fed beef, she sometimes brings other treats, like homecooked beets, bread and butter pickles and candied jalapenos - if she has time. Skelley comes to the Dripping Springs Market on Wednesdays and to the Barton Springs Market on Saturdays.

“I’m a small rancher. I’m older, so I can only handle butchering one steer at a time,” Skelley said. “So it is what it is, and get it while you can!”

The Farmers Market is held on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Dripping Springs Ranch Park.

The full schedule for the rest of the week can be found at www.hayscountylivestockshow. org. Here’s a glimpse of the shows that are happening on each day: Market Rabbits Show Breeding Rabbits Show Judging of Ag Mechanics Projects 

Tues. Jan 20

Breeding Goat Show Market Goat Show Judging of Home Skills Projects Breeding Sheep Show Market Sheep Show 

Wed. Jan 21

Breeding Swine Show Market Swine Show Poultry Show 

Thurs. Jan 22

Breeding Cattle Show Market Steer Show 

Fri. Jan 23

Auction set up 

Sat. Jan 24

Awards & Auction

Mark your calendars for the 2026 Hays County Youth Livestock Show and come out and support the 4-H and FFA youth of Hays County. The show includes a wide variety of events, from Ag Mechanics and Home Skills to Rabbit, Sheep, Goat, Cattle, Swine and Poultry shows. Get details at www.hayscoun-tylivestock-show. org. Dripping Springs Ranch Park

• 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Driftwood Wellness: Brunch & Fitness Class Series Jan 18, 25 • 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Every Sunday in January, Vista Brewing is hosting a relaxed, community- centered Sunday Brunch & Fitness Class Series. Each Sunday features a unique local studio teaching an entry-level class, a walk around Vista’s scenic ranch trails and a well-earned brunch — all designed to help you reset and reconnect surrounded by nature. Classes are

ON PAGE 7 small, and a $5 pre-registration is required. Vista Brewing • 13551 FM 150 W

• Driftwood, TX 78619

Dripping Springs Farmers Market Jan 21 & 28 • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Dripping Springs Farmer’s Market is held on Wednesdays at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. Visitors can gather and shop for fresh agricultural and related products. Dripping Springs Ranch Park • 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

2026 Wedding Capital of Texas Winter Showcase Jan 25 • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This one day showcase is an inviting, one-day event held in Dripping Springs, bringing together engaged couples and local wedding industry professionals under one roof. It showcases venues, artisans, photographers, florists, caterers, and creative vendors in a friendly, community-centered setting that highlights the charm and beauty of Dripping Springs. Patriots Hall • 231 Patriots Hall Blvd • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Jan 28 • 11:30 a.m.

The January Membership Luncheon will feature the State of the City report by The City of Dripping Springs. Come hear about the major projects and happenings from 2025 and learn what’s in store for 2026. Members and their guests can get tickets at https://dstxchamber. com Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room & Event Venue • 2250 E.

Hwy. 290 • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Live Music with Lonnie and the Mixers Jan 28 • 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Lonnie Atkinson, singersongwriter, has played with Tanya Tucker, David Allan Coe, Marcia Ball, and many others. Join Lonnie and his talented bandmates Larry Eisenberg, Jamie Hilboldt, Kevin Hall, and Steven Vague for a free performance at the library. Register at www.dscl.org. Dripping Springs Community Library • 501 Sportsplex Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND EDUCATION

Dripping Springs Community Library 

The Dripping Springs Community Library hosts multiple events every week. Events include Toddler Story Time, Homeschool Chess Club, Legos @ the Library, Mah-Jongg, Master Gardeners on the Porch, Yoga and more. For library events, visit dscl.org/event-calendar.

City of Dripping Springs Public Meetings

The City of Dripping Springs welcomes residents and others doing business with the city to attend any of the public meetings below. City Council meetings are traditionally held at City Hall Council Chambers, 511 W. Mercer St., Dripping Springs, TX 78620. See cityofdrippingsprings.com for streaming options and meeting agendas.

Farmers Market Committee Regular Meeting Jan 15 • 10 a.m.

Emergency Management Committee Regular Meeting Jan 15 • 12 p.m.

Utility Commission Regular Meeting Jan 15 • 4 p.m.

City Council Regular Meeting Jan 20 • 6 p.m.

Parks & Recreation Commission Regular Meeting Jan 21 • 6 p.m.

Transportation Committee Regular Meeting Jan 26 • 3:30 p.m.

Founders Day Committee Regular Meeting Jan 26 • 6:30 p.m.

Planning & Zoning Commission Special Meeting Jan 27 • 6 p.m.

DSRP Outdoor Arena Ribbon Cutting Jan 28 • 4 p.m.

Hays County Commissioners Court Regular Meeting Jan 20 • 9 a.m.

This is a regular meeting of the Hays County Commissioners Court, the governing body of the county.

This group of elected officials and staff oversees the functions and budget for all county-related business. Hays County Historic Courthouse • 111 E. San Antonio St. • San Marcos, Texas. Streaming option available at hayscountytx.com.

Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees Monthly Meeting Jan 26 • 6 p.m.

Live meeting of the DSISD Board of Trustees which sets policy, agenda and strategic planning for the Dripping Springs school district. Agendas and live streaming option available at dsisdtx.us. Live meeting at the Center for Learning & Leadership • 300 Sportsplex Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620.

INVASION Haunted House and Hayride Oct 24 & 25 • 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The year is 2030, and two alien species are in a war for control of the Earth, while the few remaining humans try to mount a resistance! Proceeds from this haunted house and hayride are going to Burke Center for Youth. Visit https://hellcountryhaunt. com for tickets. Dripping Springs Ranch Park • 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

2025 DSRP Family Fall Fest & Children’s Entrepreneur Market Oct 26 • 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. This festival will feature a unique hop-onhop- off hayride that takes attendees to craft and activity stations around the 120acre Dripping Springs Ranch Park. This goat- your-own-pace event is friendly for all ages. Tickets are $5, kids 2 & under are free. There will also be a Children’s Entrepreneur Market, a popup show run entirely by kids (ages 5–17)! To sign up to have a booth, visit www.kidsmarkets. com. Dripping Springs Ranch Park • 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Celebrate Halloween with PRIDE Oct 26 • 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Pride of Dripping Springs and Outlaw Pride will host Boos & Brews, a family-friendly Halloween Celebration. This vibrant, inclusive event promises a day full of not-sospooky fun, live music, and community spirit for adults and families. Admission is free and open to the public. Costumes are encouraged, kindness and acceptance are required!

Beerburg Brewery & Events Venue • 13476 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736

Creepy Crawlers, Wrigglers, and Fliers!

Oct 29 • 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Enjoy a free night of guided nature fun! Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center

• 1042 Event Center Drive • Dripping Springs, 78620

Dripping Springs Farmers Market Oct 29 & Nov 5 • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Dripping Springs Farmer’s Market is held on Wednesdays at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. Visitors can gather and shop for fresh agricultural and related products. Dripping Springs Ranch Park • 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

2025 Empty Bowls Project Nov 2 • 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Dripping Springs Empty Bowls Project brings together chefs, potters and musicians to host an event brimming with great food, fellowship and fun in support of the Dripping Springs Helping Hands food pantry. Tickets are available at the door, and include a bowl of your choice to be filled with a soup of your choice!

Dripping Springs Ranch Park

• 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Astronomy in the Park Nov 3 • 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

This small group astronomy lesson is geared toward families, couples, and interested adults. The lesson will be guided by a science teacher.

Participants will be using the telescopes themselves and learning about the objects seen through them. Observation logs will be provided for participants to take notes. Cost is $15 per person. Register at www.drippingspringsranchpark. com. Dripping Springs Ranch Park • 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

DSAL Art Market at the Triangle - Holiday Kickoff Nov 8 • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Come get a jump on holiday shopping at the Dripping Springs Art League’s market.

The Triangle • 150 East Mercer St. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Holiday Market & Bake Sale Saturday Nov 8 • 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Sunday Nov 9 • 10:00 am - 1:00 pm The Women In Mission organization at Dripping Springs Methodist Church is holding its annual market and bake sale.

Drop by for handmade crafts and delicious baked goods.

Proceeds are allocated to local charities and needs. Dripping Springs Methodist Church • 28900 Ranch Road 12 • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

2025 Veteran’s Day Dinner and Dance Nov 11 • 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Rotary Club of Dripping Springs will be honoring local veterans and their families with a free dinner and dance. Alex Dormont and the Hot Texas Swing Band will be providing dance music at the event.

Dripping Springs Distillery • 5330 Bell Springs Road • Dripping Springs, TX 78620 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND EDUCATION

Dripping Springs Community Library

The Dripping Springs Community Library hosts multiple events every week.

Events include Toddler Story Time, Homeschool Chess Club, Legos @ the Library, Mah-Jongg, Master Gardeners on the Porch, Yoga and more. For library events, visit dscl.org/event-calendar.

City of Dripping Springs Public Meetings The City of Dripping Springs welcomes residents and others doing business with the city to attend any of the public meetings below. City Council meetings are traditionally held at City Hall Council Chambers, 511 W. Mercer St., Dripping Springs, TX 78620. See cityofdrippingsprings. com for streaming options and meeting agendas. Transportation Committee Regular Meeting Oct 27 • 3:30 p.m.

Founders Day Committee Regular Meeting Oct 27 • 6:30 p.m.

Planning & Zoning Commission Regular Meeting Oct 28 • 6 p.m .

City Council & Board of Adjustment Regular Meeting Nov 4 • 6 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission Regular Meeting Nov 6 • 4 p.m.

Hays County Commissioners Court Regular Meeting Oct 28 • 9 a.m.

This is a regular meeting of the Hays County Commissioners Court, the governing body of the county. This group of elected officials and staff oversees the functions and budget for all county-related business. Hays County Historic Courthouse • 111 E.

San Antonio St. • San Marcos, Texas. Streaming option available at hayscountytx. com.

Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees Monthly Meeting Oct 27 • 6 p.m.

Live meeting of the DSISD Board of Trustees which sets policy, agenda and strategic planning for the Dripping Springs school district.

Agendas and live streaming option available at dsisdtx.us.

Live meeting at the Center for Learning & Leadership • 300 Sportsplex Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620.

Of the three court members voting to remove the cameras, Judge Ruben Becerra was the most adamant in this opposition, with Commissioners Debbie Gonzales Ingalsbe and Michelle Cohen offering more measured reactions before the vote, stressing that their vote was against the company Flock Safety, not the LPR technology.

Becerra said he was grateful for the clerical error in February which caused a delay in the final vote on the Flock cameras, noting what he views as worrisome developments in the current political climate since then.

“What’s changed is the federal government. Like it or not, it’s very different than the federal government we’ve had in all of our existence. It’s being used in ways that are so different, and that is what has caused concern in privacy and security risks.”

Commissioner Cohen said after re- searching LPR cameras and taking part in discussions about the cameras with Hays County law enforcement officials, she believes that the problem lies with the Flock Safety company and not the cameras themselves. Cohen suggested that Hays County should reach out to other companies that manufacture LPR cameras.

“I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s more about company practices versus the technology,” Cohen said. “I feel any company that the county contracts with needs to uphold what I think are ethical standards of our county, and there’s a lot of fear around these issues at this time … I would like the sheriff ’s department to think about a formal solicitation of this service.

Commissioner Ingalsbe noted that the court had invited Flock Safety to the Tuesday hearing, but the company did not attend. ”Flock was supposed to be here today to make a presentation. Unfortunately, they did not submit their paperwork in time to be on the agenda, and so that presentation has been delayed.”

Ingalsbe agreed with Cohen that the court should research other LPR companies. “I want to also be open to looking at other options. I know that there’s other companies out there that may do the same thing.”

Commissioners Morgan Hammer and Walt Smith, in voting to continue the Flock Safety contract, stressed their support for the decision by the Hays County Sheriff ’s Office to chose Flock as their LPR camera vendor.

“I definitely listen to all sides of everything, every story that was sent to me, I watch, I listen,” said Hammer, “but at the end of the day. I’m going to back our sheriff ’s office …. I won’t compromise public safety.”

Commissioner Walt Smith said the choice of LPR cameras should be left up to the law enforcement branches using them, not the Commissioner’s Court.

”I’m not going to tell my law enforcement what tools they need and don’t need, because they’re the ones who are building that house of public safety here in Haynes County, and I’m going to be supportive of them in that effort,” Smith said.

A vote against Flock is not a vote against local law enforcement, countered Becerra.

“Some folks are creating these binary options, false decisions. If you vote for this, you’re pro police. If you vote against it, you’re not. Well, there’s nothing more ridiculously limiting than that statement, because here we all are all pro police, and yet you can feel the tone in the room that this tool, of the millions of tools that are available … our citizenry does not feel comfortable with” Opposition to Flock has been gaining momentum in this area amidst growing concerns about the privacy of the data. On Oct. 9, Lockhart City Council voted 6-1 to reject an agreement with Flock Group for seven cameras, following a presentation by police staff and two Flock representatives.

San Marcos resident Amy Kamp, Communications Director for the advocacy group Ground Game Texas, spoke against Flock Safety and LPR cameras at both the Lockhart city council meeting and the Commissioners Court on Tuesday. She stressed that she believes privacy concerns are concerning not just for Flock but for all LPR providers.

“When people learn about this company and its documented abuses, and when they learn about the violation of privacy that this type of network of the LPRs represents, regardless of the company providing the service, they do not like it. Many people in this country value their constitutional rights. They value the right to some reasonable measure of privacy. They don’t want to be constantly stalked by cameras and databases.”

The Mano Amiga Action organization has also been actively lobbying against the use of LPR cameras in this area. In a statement released on Tuesday after the Commissioner’s Court meeting, Executive Director Eric Martinez, said, “This is a victory for every resident who spoke out against being watched, tracked, and treated like a suspect in their own community. Flock built its empire on selling fear. But people here saw through it. We refused to trade our freedom for a false sense of security.”

Hays County Sheriff Anthony Hipolito said, “It’s very disappointing that a vital tool used by our agency every single day was taken away from us based on half truths and just flat out lies. … “The flock technology is not mass surveillance. Flock cameras simply take a picture of a vehicle and a license plate and a snapshot in time. It doesn’t actively track a vehicle.” For the Daily Record’s full interview with Sheriff Hipolito about Flock cameras, see our Wednesday edition.

Wimberly resident and former US Marshall Tyler Owen expressed his support for the Flock cameras in a letter to the court.

“In my two decades of experience, I have seen how a system like Flock saves lives and solves crimes,” Owen said. “Every minute counts in an investigation, and this technology gives law enforcement a critical advantage when time and information are limited.”

A Driftwood voting location was removed while locations in Dripping Springs and Buda were relocated. The location at the LBJ Student Center on the Texas State University campus will remain and be brought into compliance.

Following approval of Hays County polling locations for the Nov. 4 election at their Aug. 19 meeting, the court determined that the following polling locations did not meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility standards: the Buda subdivision of Sunfield, the Driftwood Community Center, the Dripping Springs ISD Center for Learning and Leadership, and the LBJ Student Center at Texas State University.

Commissioner Walt Smith moved to remove the Driftwood Community Center and to relocate the Sunfield voting station to the Holiday Inn Express located at 15295 I-35 in Buda, which is next door to Sunfield Station. Additionally he moved to relocate the Dripping Springs ISD Center for Learning and Leadership voting location to Patriots Hall of Dripping Springs Wellness Center located at 231 Patriots Hall Blvd. in Dripping Springs.

The LBJ Student Center on Texas State Universities campus will remain an active voting center.

“Some relatively minor ADA issues with the LBJ Student Center were brought to Texas State’s attention. The university committed to addressing said issues. At this time TXST anticipates serving as a voting location as it has in past election cycles,” TXST Assistant Director of Media Relations Jayme Blaschke said.

”I would like to say thank you to the university for acting quickly in order to bring that location back into compliance and meeting the needs that were addressed to us,” Smith said.

Judge Ruben Becerra seconded the motion.

”Thank you to the city of San Marcos for helping us in other spaces. Honestly elections are for everyone and everyone is weighing in and doing their best to make this happen,” Becerra said.

The 11th Annual Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival was held in historic downtown last weekend, and music lovers from far and wide showed up to hear original tunes on eight different stages. There was also a “Songbird Stage” for young artists located at the festival headquarters.

The Dripping Springs Art League once again hosted its Art Lounge, where attendees could check out creations from local artists. There were even artists doing live paintings during some of the performances.

And on Saturday, Homespun Kitchen and Bar hosted Songwriter Sessions, where listeners could learn about the songwriting process from three different artists.

During the festival, songwriters performed in an “in the round” Nashville-style song-swap format. As they took turns singing, they often told the stories of how their songs came to be. The sessions are designed to evoke a “listening room” atmosphere, where the audience remains quiet during each song.

The participating venues included The Barber Shop Bar, Acopon Brewing, Mazama Coffee Co, Hudson’s on Mercer, Winehouse, Haus of Jayne and Dog ‘n’ Bone.

On Sunday, the festival closed with the traditional gospel brunch, followed by a final jam featuring all the songwriters on the Songbird Stage.

“I was deeply honored that I got to be a part of this event,” songwriter Meagan Tubbs said. “Thank you to all of the volunteers, sound engineers, and to all my friends and neighbors who stopped by to hear one of my six sets I played. It means so much to me that you came.”

Tubbs also thanked the festival organizers, the venues, and the other songwriters.

“Your songs, your stories, your experiences, expression, voice, lyrics and talents are more precious than diamonds,” Tubbs said. “Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world.”

Pam King, manager of the Dripping Springs Visitors Bureau, was one of the lead organizers for the festival.

“Events like The Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival are what make our community such a great place to live, work, play and visit,” King said. “The 40+ songwriters were incredible, and the community of local businesses truly stepped up to showcase our downtown. Our volunteers help to keep things running smoothly, and the support provided by the City of Dripping Springs staff and our generous sponsors helped to make this event a huge success!”

The project is part of the city’s commitment to preserve and revitalize its historic downtown.

The Stephenson Building and the downtown parking lots are two of the major projects of the City’s Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZ) Board. The projects include the rehabilitation of the historic Stephenson Building (4,020 square feet), an addition of 1,881 square feet, 8,490 square feet of site improvements, and 41,160 square feet of parking improvements.

Currently unoccupied, the city-owned building will be transformed into a flexible space for future civic uses and community events.

“The Stephenson Building holds an important place in our community’s story,” said Michelle Fischer, City Administrator. “By preserving its historic character and preparing it for modern civic uses, we’re creating a welcoming hub for gatherings, events, and public life - one that will strengthen downtown, celebrate our heritage, and serve residents for generations to come.”

Major components of the project include a full rehabilitation of the building envelope; preservation and adaptive re-use of original interior spaces to flexibly accommodate a variety of new uses; upgrades to building infrastructure and systems to enable functionality and meet modern building codes; and site improvements, including parking, lighting, and landscaping.

The Stephenson Building was constructed in 1939 under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and named for student Allen J. Stephenson. The one-story limestone building originally served as the community’s high school until 1949, then continued as an auditorium and for other educational and community uses.

The renovation initiative grew from public input gathered during multiple Comprehensive Plan updates. The Historic Preservation Commission has been a long-standing supporter and sponsor of an appropriate adaptive re-use of this structure. Other boards and commissions - including the Planning and Zoning Commission, City Council, and the TIRZ Board - have encouraged and supported the project. Also helping throughout the planning process were the architect firm, Architexas, and the engineering firm Doucet – A Kleinfelder Company.

The cost of the project is $4,447,200, with an additional 10% contingency of $444,720, for a total of $4,891,920. Funding sources include $4,695,163 from Debt Issuance Funds and $200,000 from Landscape Funds, bringing the total funding allocation to $4,895,163. There is a contract period of 365 calendar days for completion.

Shay Traweek, the Project Manager for QA Construction Services, Inc., said they are excited to begin the project.

“We are honored to be a part of this historical project that can continue to revitalize this portion of downtown Dripping Springs and help bring more opportunities and events to the city,” Traweek said. “This groundbreaking represents more than the start of construction; it is the beginning of a project that will serve everyone in Dripping Springs for many years.”

Both QA Construction Services, Inc., and Architexas specialize in historic building rehabilitation.

“The reason is one that many other organizations and people are experiencing right now: the weight of this economy. Running a shelter is extremely expensive. From providing our animals the vet care they need, to food and supplies, to things that most people don’t think of like heating and air conditioning, it all adds up. For now, we can no longer afford to keep our doors open at both locations,” the post said.

PAWS said that any dogs or cats that are not adopted or put in foster before Oct. 31 will be transferred to their Dripping Springs campus, which will be staying open.

“PAWS is more than an animal shelter. It’s a pillar of the community that has been around for almost 4 decades. We are not giving up! We are determined to turn things around and raise the funds to open our Kyle doors once again. However, we can’t do it alone,” the post said.

The organization said that the animals they serve, and the community that surrounds them, will remain at the heart of everything they do. They shared a donate button for supporters who would like to support the group’s mission. To learn more, visit www.pawsshelter.org.

Let’s fill this space with love and memories! Dripping Springs Ranch Park

• 1042 Event Center Dr • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Songwriters Fest Oct 17-19 Oct 17 • 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Oct 18 • 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Oct 19 • 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

This 3-day music festival treats music lovers to a wide variety of amazing songs and the people and stories behind the finely crafted tunes.

The songwriting showcases give attendees the opportunity to experience tomorrow’s headliners in small-stage “listening room” performances at unique venues in historic downtown Dripping Springs. On 7 stages, featuring 70 shows, 35+ songwriters will perform in an “in the round” Nashvillestyle song-swap format. All shows downtown are FREE. For details visit dripping-springssongwriters-festival. com. Various locations.

INVASION Haunted House and Hayride Oct 17 & 18 • 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The year is 2030, and two alien species are in a war for control of the Earth, while the few remaining humans try to mount a resistance! Proceeds from this haunted house and hayride are going to Burke Center for Youth. Visit https://hellcountryhaunt. com for tickets.

Dripping Springs Ranch Park

• 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Fall Festival at The Learning Experience Oct 17 • 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

This free, family-friendly event will include food trucks, local vendors, games, and trunk-or-treating for children of all ages. It’s an opportunity for local families to come together, enjoy the season, and learn more about the facility. The Learning Experience • 12400 W US 290, STE 600 • Austin TX 78737

Denim & Disco Gala Oct. 18 • 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Hill Country Rally for Kids is hosting its annual gala to raise money for children’s causes. Enjoy a delicious dinner with friends and supporters, sip on signature drinks, compete in table-to-table Mash Up challenges, and enjoy the 360° Video Booth.

Dress to the T’s or come casual, and get the low down on what the Rally’s goals are.

Reserve a table at www.hcrally.com. Hog Heaven • 491 Hog Hollow Road • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Creepy Crawlers, Wrigglers, and Fliers!

Oct 22 • 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Enjoy a free night of guided nature fun! Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center

• 1042 Event Center Drive

• Dripping Springs, 78620

Dripping Springs Farmers Market Oct 22 & 29 • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Dripping Springs Farmer’s Market is held on Wednesdays at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. Visitors can gather and shop for fresh agricultural and related products. Dripping Springs Ranch Park • 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

2025 DSRP Family Fall Fest & Children’s Entrepreneur Market Oct 26 • 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

This festival will feature a unique hop-on-hop-off hayride that takes attendees to craft and activity stations around the 120-acre Dripping Springs Ranch Park.

This go-at-your-own-pace event is friendly for all ages.

Tickets are $5, kids 2 & under are free. There will also be a Children’s Entrepreneur Market, a pop-up show run entirely by kids (ages 5–17)!

To sign up to have a booth, visit www.kidsmarkets.com.

Dripping Springs Ranch Park

• 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Celebrate Halloween with PRIDE Oct 26 • 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Pride of Dripping Springs and Outlaw Pride will host Boos & Brews, a family-friendly Halloween Celebration. This vibrant, inclusive event promises a day full of not-sospooky fun, live music, and community spirit for adults and families. Admission is free and open to the public.

Costumes are encouraged, kindness and acceptance are required! This event also marks the official launch of Pride of Dripping Springs new “Friends with PRIDE” annual giving group, designed to build community and fund programming for LGBTQIA+ residents and allies in and around Dripping Springs.

Beerburg Brewery & Events Venue • 13476 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND EDUCATION

Dripping Springs Community Library

The Dripping Springs Community Library hosts multiple events every week.

Events include Toddler Story Time, Homeschool Chess Club, Legos @ the Library, Mah-Jongg, Master Gardeners on the Porch, Yoga and more. For library events, visit dscl.org/eventcalendar.

City of Dripping Springs Public Meetings The City of Dripping Springs welcomes residents and others doing business with the city to attend any of the public meetings below. City Council meetings are traditionally held at City Hall Council Chambers, 511 W.

Mercer St., Dripping Springs, TX 78620. See cityofdrippingsprings. com for streaming options and meeting agendas.

Farmers Market Committee Regular Meeting Oct 16 • 10 a.m.

Emergency Management Committee Regular Meeting Oct 16 • 12 p.m.

City Council Regular Meeting Oct 21 • 6 p.m.

Transportation Committee Regular Meeting Oct 27 • 3:30 p.m.

Founders Day Committee Regular Meeting Oct 27 • 6:30 p.m.

Hays County Commissioners Court Regular Meeting Oct 28 • 9 a.m.

This is a regular meeting of the Hays County Commissioners Court, the governing body of the county. This group of elected officials and staff oversees the functions and budget for all county-related business.

Hays County Historic Courthouse • 111 E. San Antonio St. • San Marcos, Texas. Streaming option available at hayscountytx. com.

Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees Monthly Meeting Oct 27 • 6 p.m.

Live meeting of the DSISD Board of Trustees which sets policy, agenda and strategic planning for the Dripping Springs school district.

Agendas and live streaming option available at dsisdtx.us. Live meeting at the Center for Learning & Leadership • 300 Sportsplex Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620.

“This has been a dream of ours for five years,” Lisa Sullivan, the city’s People & Communications Director, said. “Last year we kicked off the dream with six stars on Mercer Street, and now we have ten stars from ten wonderful artists who are going to share their story tonight.”

Sullivan thanked Pam King, the city’s tourism director, and the Dripping Springs Art League (DSAL) for making the project a reality. She also thanked the City Council for their support of the initiative.

Mayor Bill Foulds, Jr. also spoke and thanked the partners, as well as city staff, for their work.

“These stars are not just artwork, they tell a story, and the artists did a great job of expressing themselves and capturing the moment of Dripping Springs,” Foulds said.

DSAL President Steve Friedman said appreciated partnering with so many great people from the city.

“I also just want to recognize the city in general, because I think it must have taken a lot of courage to say, we’re gonna put these bright vibrant stars in the center of our downtown,” Friedman said. “But you know, it really captures a lot of the culture and the vibrancy that is Dripping Springs, and these next ten stars are just going to do even more for that.”

Dripping Springs tourism manager Pam King said the stars are a great asset for the community, and a draw for people to come and visit. She encouraged everyone in attendance to take photos with the stars and post them on social media with the hashtag #destinationdrippingsprings to help spread the word.

King also thanked Dripp’n Paint & Body for their support of the artists.

“This is a really interesting process. Our artists use different kinds of mediums to paint their stars, but all of these stars are clearcoated by Dripp’n Paint & Body,” King said. “That’s why they stay vibrant and bright and look so great and last for a very long time. So that’s a really generous donation and we really appreciate them for that.”

The new stars will be finding their homes at various sites around town, including all six city parks.

“For this phase, it was important to us that we have stars in all of our parks,” King said. “So we worked with the Parks Commission, they helped select which stars they wanted in which parks.”

Additionally, King said that four businesses stepped up and said they wanted to support this project and help spread the love - Flying Fish Academy, Ally Medical Emergency Room, Deep Eddy Vodka Tasting Room and H-E-B. Each of those locations will have a star.

H-E-B’s star, which was created by artist Melissa Richardson, is an homage to the store.

“Phase one happened because of them, and that was huge,” King said. “They helped kick this program off, so that is really a great tribute to them and our community.”

The stars will be placed in their homes in the coming weeks.

The star artists Melissa Richardson, Joe Christenson, Kyndall Womack, Cathy Richardson, Jessie Woodhead, Erin Hounsel, Jessi Bostad, Tiffany Sierras, Jenny Swannack and Rozmary Seastrom will be profiled in an upcoming issue.

The festival is organized to evoke small “listening room” performances. There are seven stages, one at each of the seven participating venues - The Barber Shop Bar, Acopon Brewing, Mazama Coffee Co, Hudson’s on Mercer, Hudson’s Outdoors, Winehouse, Haus of Jayne and Dog & Bone.

There will be a total of 70 shows, and the songwriters will perform in an “in the round” Nashville-style song-swap format.

All shows are free.

The festival hours are Friday, Oct. 17 from 1:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday Oct. 18 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The official lineup includes: Gloria Anderson, Stacy Antonel, Charlie Argo, Ben Balmer, Emily Barnes, Zach Berkman, Katrina Cain, Sarah Clanton, Stephen Dylan Clough, Rachel Cole, Ronnie Criss, Ben Danaher, George Ensle, Ben Gage, Abbie Gardner, Goldpine, JD Graham, Dean Johaneson, Rachel Laven, The Lockhearts, Logan Mac, Tom Meny, Erica Michelle, Whitney Monge, Grace Morrison, Abigayle Oakley, Ray Prim, Chad Richard, Matt Rogers, Sophie Seng, Stephanie Sammons, Lisa Sanders, The Union Revival, David Tribble, Meagan Tubb, Logan Vath, Reed Waddle, Ananda Murari and Weary Ramblers.

To see the full schedule and details about the artists, visit drip-pingspringssongwrit-ersfestival. com.

Allied Development LLC applied to the TCEQ for a permit (No.

WQ0016475001) to authorize the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a daily average flow not to exceed 45,000 gallons per day. The facility would be located approximately 1.5 miles southeast of the intersection of Farm-to Market Road 150 and Ranch Road 12, which is the proposed site of the Madelynn Estates development. The treated effluent would be discharged to an unnamed tributary, which feeds to Onion Creek.

The meeting, which was held at Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center, was requested by Texas Representative Erin Zweiner. The first part of the meeting consisted of an informal discussion period, where members of the public could ask questions to the applicant or to the TCEQ staff. The second part of the meeting was for formal comments to be submitted into the official record.

During the formal comment period, ten people submitted formal oral comments. Some excerpts from those comments are provided below.

Formal Comments “Let’s start with the fact that there’s an existing wastewater treatment facility three quarters of a mile away from the proposed Madelynn Estates treatment facility. The Dripping Springs wastewater treatment plant could accommodate 45,000 gallons per day from the proposed development, and in fact, the City of Dripping Springs has proposed this to the development… Rather than pointing Allied Development towards the City of Dripping Springs, who beneficially reuses much of their wastewater, TCEQ has inexplicably chosen to issue a polluting draft permit which would endanger nearby Onion Creek with treated sewage discharge. For this reason alone, the Allied Development permit should be rejected by TCEQ.” -Mike Clifford, technical director for the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance “Back in the Q&A session we established that many chemicals forever chemicals, things like personal care products, contaminants of emergent concerns, antibiotics, antidepressants, antifungals, hormones, diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure, hazardous waste, the PFASes, PCBs, alkylphenols we established your response was that we don’t do anything to prohibit it, to test for it, to monitor it, because the government allows it. Aren’t we better than that in Texas? So Allied, I’m just asking you, if you live three miles down from this and you’re gonna discharge into this creek, which is a karst stone bottom creek, would you and your family drink this water where I live three miles down? I’m a businessman myself. I’ve been in business for 30 years, but I’m appealing to you tonight to look at your alternatives.” -Wesley Morgan Pitts, Protect Our Water, area resident “I’ve heard a lot of references to Edwards Aquifer this evening, but nobody has ever mentioned the Upper and Middle Trinity Aquifers and the Cow Creek Aquifer which is who I speak for tonight. That is what this area is directly recharging into, so those are the impacted aquifers primarily. The Cow Creek Aquifer is what supplies Jacob’s Well, which is a Hays County asset… I also want to put into the room here that it is up to the applicants how rigorous they want to be with the limits of discharge. So you can actually choose a more strenuous phosphorus limit. You can choose a more stringent nitrogen limit. You can actually choose to filter your water more if you want to. We’re referring here to the legal limits on the state level, and they’re not rigorous enough for this area. So respond to the people and do better, and we will be here for you in that process.” -Zane Porterfield, Watershed Association, area resident “To the TCEQ guys, I’m just disappointed. I feel like you guys hide behind bureaucracy. You know, you had this dye trace study for over seven years, like I mentioned earlier, and you know there are detrimental impacts to our community. You know that anything that’s discharged in Onion Creek hits private wells. We have proof, we know this. So we just expect better and we expect sharp, clear answers.” -Richard Beggs, Protect Our Water “These Hill Country Creeks are very low in nutrition value. They also contain an algae which grows very well in low nutrient environments… findings indicate that if you change the nutrients a little bit, like phosphorus, then it’s gonna result in significant increase in growth of algae and the degradation of surface water.” Brian Dudley, environmental engineer, area resident “I was asked to come speak on behalf of the owner who has recently hired us to sell this property. First of all the Burns family is probably one of the most influential families of Dripping Springs. They donated the property for the current sewer facility that Dripping Springs utilizes, they donated the land for Charro Park, which is north of FM 150. Mr. Burns his reputation has been dragged through the dirt over this particular incident. He is not for this development... This property does not support this density of homes. It also will not support discharge into Onion Creek. Those are non-negotiable items. That will not happen. Discharge into Onion Creek is dead in the water. Thank you.” -Jeff Coffman, broker/ owner of Coffman Real Estate

History of the Permit The TCEQ has performed a Tier 1 antidegradation review which determined that existing water quality uses will not be impaired by this permit action. The TCEQ’s Tier 2 review has preliminarily determined that no significant degradation of water quality is expected in Onion Creek.

The TCEQ Executive Director has completed the technical review of the application and prepared a draft permit. The draft permit, if approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility must operate. The Executive Director has made a preliminary decision that this permit, if issued, meets all statutory and regulatory re-quirements.

The permit application, Executive Director’s preliminary decision, and draft permit are available for viewing and copying at Dripping Springs Community Library, 501 Sportsplex Drive, Dripping Springs, Texas. The application, including any updates, and associated notices are available electronically at the following webpage: https://www.tceq.texas .gov/permitting/wastewater/ pendingpermits/ tpdes-applications.

Festival of Flight Oct 11 • 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with guided bird walks in the morning - 7:30 a.m. at Dripping Springs Ranch Park and 8:30 a.m. at Charro Ranch Park. Then head to Founders Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for family fun. Enjoy kids’ crafts, activities, vendors, prizes, and more while learning about the beauty of birds and the importance of protecting their habitats. It’s a perfect day to connect with nature, celebrate community, and send our feathered friends off in style! Various locations.

2025 Hill Country Harvest Market Oct 10 • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oct 11 • 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Shop clothing, home and holiday decor, jewelry, gourmet food, Texas handmade, Scentsy, gifts for the guys, art, accessories, candles, and more. Admission is $6 or $5 with a non-perishable food donation to Helping Hands Food Pantry.

Admission is good for both days and kids 12 and under are free. Dripping Springs Ranch Park

• 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620 INVASION Haunted House and Hayride Oct 10 & 11 • 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The year is 2030, and two alien species are in a war for control of the Earth, while the few remaining humans try to mount a resistance! Proceeds from this haunted house and hayride are going to Burke Center for Youth. Visit https://hellcountryhaunt. com for tickets.

Dripping Springs Ranch Park

• 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Friends of the Library Book Sale Oct 11 • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Friends of the Dripping Springs Community Library is having a book sale to benefit the Dripping Springs Community Library.

Proceeds will supplement library programming, special events and extra-budgetary items. Children’s books, cookbooks, fiction, non-fiction, old and collectible, Western/Texana, coffee table books and some videos and DVDs will be available.

Flight Ice Creams will be on hand. The Hall, Caliterra • 505 Wynnpage Drive • Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Creepy Crawlers, Wrigglers, and Fliers!

Oct 15 • 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Enjoy a free night of guided nature fun! Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center

• 1042 Event Center Drive

• Dripping Springs, 78620

Dripping Springs Farmers Market Oct 15 & 22 • 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Dripping Springs Farmer’s Market is held on Wednesdays at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. Visitors can gather and shop for fresh agricultural and related products. Dripping Springs Ranch Park • 1042 Event Center Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Songwriters Fest - Oct 17-19 Oct 17 • 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Oct 18 • 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Oct 19 • 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

This 3-day music festival treats music lovers to a wide variety of amazing songs and the people and stories behind the finely crafted tunes. The songwriting showcases give attendees the opportunity to experience tomorrow’s headliners in small-stage “listening room” performances at unique venues in historic downtown Dripping Springs. On 7 stages, featuring 70 shows, 35+ songwriters will perform in an “in the round” Nashville-style song-swap format. All shows downtown are FREE. For details visit drippingspringssongwritersfestival. com. Various locations.

Denim & Disco Gala Oct. 18 • 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Hill Country Rally for Kids is hosting its annual gala to raise money for children’s causes. Enjoy a delicious dinner with friends and supporters, sip on signature drinks, compete in table-totable Mash Up challenges, and enjoy the 360° Video Booth. Dress to the T’s or come casual, and get the low down on what the Rally’s goals are. Reserve a table at www.hcrally.om. Hog Heaven • 491 Hog Hollow Road • Dripping Springs, TX 78620 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND EDUCATION Dripping Springs Community Library The Dripping Springs Community Library hosts multiple events every week.

Events include Toddler Story Time, Homeschool Chess Club, Legos @ the Library, Mah-Jongg, Master Gardeners on the Porch, Yoga and more. For library events, visit dscl.org/eventcalendar.

City of Dripping Springs Public Meetings The City of Dripping Springs welcomes residents and others doing business with the city to attend any of the public meetings below. City Council meetings are traditionally held at City Hall Council Chambers, 511 W.

Mercer St., Dripping Springs, TX 78620. See cityofdrippingsprings. com for streaming options and meeting agendas.

Parks & Recreation Commission Regular Meeting Oct 15 • 6 p.m.

Farmers Market Committee Regular Meeting Oct 16 • 10 a.m.

Emergency Management Committee Regular Meeting Oct 16 • 12 p.m.

City Council Regular Meeting Oct. 21 • 6 p.m.

Hays County Commissioners Court Regular Meeting Oct 14 • 9 a.m.

This is a regular meeting of the Hays County Commissioners Court, the governing body of the county. This group of elected officials and staff oversees the functions and budget for all county-related business.

Hays County Historic Courthouse • 111 E. San Antonio St. • San Marcos, Texas. Streaming option available at hayscountytx. com.

Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees Monthly Meeting Oct 27 • 6 p.m.

Live meeting of the DSISD Board of Trustees which sets policy, agenda and strategic planning for the Dripping Springs school district.

Agendas and live streaming option available at dsisdtx.us. Live meeting at the Center for Learning & Leadership • 300 Sportsplex Dr. • Dripping Springs, TX 78620.

Afterwards, the board heard public comments. A group of DSISD paraprofessionals stood to address the board. Their spokesperson was LaDelle Gowens, a special education instructional aide at the high school. She said the group has come before the board on multiple occasions over the past several years to address the issue of pay for paraprofessionals, and so far, they have not gotten the results they have been seeking.

“So what’s the defini- tion of a successful employee? It includes but is not limited to, strong work ethic, positive workplace behavior, willingness to learn, teamwork…” Gowens said. “As an adult, our paycheck is our report card. And even when we’re hitting and exceeding all the benchmarks of the successful employee, we receive failing grades from our pay.”

She said a lot of the paraprofessionals working for the district cannot afford to live in the area. Many work second jobs, and some have even had to quit to find other employment.

Gowens invited the board members to come and visit the paraprofessionals on the job.

“Put us first on your list,” Gowens said. “Come see us and what we do every day with our most vulnerable population and our special needs kids.”

In other business, the Board ofTrustees unanimously approved the 2025 tax rate of $1.1052 (per $100 of certified property value). That rate is unchanged from 2024 and has decreased by more than 41 cents since 2018, according to the district. Due to the anticipated increase in the homestead exemption on the November ballot, the average DSISD homeowner is expected to pay approximately $6,847 in property taxes - down from $7,206 last year.

The total tax rate of $1.1052 consists of two parts: $0.7552 for Maintenance and Operations and $0.35 for Interest and Sinking. The Maintenance and Operations (M&O) portion covers district operating costs, such as salaries and benefits, utility bills, and supplies, and is subject to recapture. The Interest and Sinking (I&S) rate generates revenue that can only be used to pay off voter-approved debt.

Property tax bills are a product of the tax rate and the property value. Therefore, a property owners’ tax bill could increase even when the tax rate remains the same or decreases.

The next meeting of the DSISD Board of Trustees is set for Oct. 27.

Residents and visitors of Dripping Springs had two opportunities to raise their steins this weekend. Bell Springs Winery and Ghost Note Brewing both held Oktoberfest celebrations filled with craft beer, live music, and a little German flair.

At Ghost Note, visitors enjoyed pretzels and brats while shopping at the pop-up market. There was also an official U.S. Steinholding Competition. Winners had a chance to advance to State Championship Finals at Wurstfest in November. The evening wrapped up with entertainment from the Taylor Campbell band.

Activities at Bell Springs included steinheists and obstacle courses for adults and kids alike, some traditional German fare, and music from Lizzie Street, out of Taylor, Texas.

Back in August, Bell Springs celebrated its 15th anniversary. Owner Nate Pruitt said the venue has become a community space where people enjoy coming to spend a few hours or the whole day.

“15 years is pretty awesome,” Pruitt said. “The community’s been very supportive. We were one of the first wineries to open out here.”

Over the years, as the area has boomed, the venue has also grown, and now also has its own brewery.

“Integrating beer was something I decided to do, and we were one of the first wineries in Texas to actually have wine and beer at the same place,” Pruitt said. “And we’re continuing to make things inclusive, so we have mocktails, we have nonalcoholic, and we have a 100 percent gluten free beer on tap, which is one of the first in Texas to do that.”

They’ve also recently partnered with another winery, Graveyard Vineyards, which is now located on the property. Pruitt said he hopes to expand even further, becoming a sort of makerspace for other small businesses. However, his goal is always to be a place where people love to gather.

“Even though we’ve expanded, we’ve tried to keep it inviting and welcoming and family friendly and all that good stuff,” Pruitt said.

Starting Oct. 9, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) will open a new Single-Point Urban Interchange (SPUI) as part of safety and mobility improvements for the Oak Hill Parkway project. The SPUI operates with a single, three-phase traffic signal to facilitate local movements between US 290 and SH 71.

To see an animation of how the SPUI will work, go to the TXDOT YouTube channel and look for their Sept. 30 video, or go to www.youtube. com/watch?v=mv _z8-YpsKg Additionally, the William Cannon Drive bypass bridge will close as crews complete connections to the US 290 mainlanes and flyovers between US 290 and SH 71. Eastbound US 290 drivers will detour to the eastbound US 290 frontage road. The William Cannon bypass bridge will reopen for westbound traffic upon completion of the project in 2026.

Road signs will be in place to alert drivers of new traffic patterns. TxDOT urges drivers to use caution when driving through the work zone.

Browning was under investigation for fraudulent sales and purchases of motor vehicles over a period spanning several years. Browning’s license to operate a motor vehicle dealership has been previously revoked, but investigators found Browning continued conducting business primarily through social media platforms such as Facebook Marketplace.

Browning was arrested while leaving his auto repair business on Rohde Road in unincorporated Kyle.

The arrest followed indictments issued Sept. 10 by a Hays County Grand Jury. Browning faces the following charges:

• Forgery of a Governmental Instrument, a thirddegree felony (5 counts)

• Forgery of a Financial Instrument, a state-jail felony (3 counts)

• Theft $300,000 or More, a first-degree felony

• Theft $30,000 to $150,000, a third-degree felony

• Injury to a Child Reckless Bodily Injury, a state-jail felony

• Injury to a Child Intentional Bodily Injury, a third-degree felony Browning remains in custody at the Hays County Jail, on a total bond of $1,023,000 for these charges and an additional case. This investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.

Hays County residents who believe they have been a victim in a similar incident, particularly who have experienced titling issues following a motor vehicle purchase are encouraged to make a report and request that report be forwarded to the Auto Theft Unit. Anonymous reports and tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 324-8477 from anywhere in the U.S. or online at www.P3tips.com.

In the FY26 budget, funds were approved at a total of $373,849,226, comprising operating funds of $248,226,263, debt funds of $55,300,195, and construction funds of $70,322,768. The FY26 budget focuses on key initiatives to address capital infrastructure needs, including road improvements and county facilities, as well as funding to continue essential judicial services. Additionally, it allocates funds to partner with local municipalities and non-profits for enhanced animal welfare services.

The budget is expected to raise more revenue from property taxes than last year’s budget by $16.9 million, representing an 11.27% increase. The property tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year is $6.9 million. According to Vickie Dorsett, Hays County Budget Officer, the average home value is $460,169, representing an annual property tax increase of $225.87 for the Hays County tax portion only.

“Property taxes are the primary source of revenue for counties in Texas, and our Commissioners Court is dedicated to maintaining a low tax rate while balancing the growing infrastructure needs and providing superior services to the citizens of Hays County,” Dorsett said.

One of the key indicators of the tax rate is population, she said. Since 2010, the population in Hays County has grown by 93% while the tax rate has consistently decreased during that period. Since 2000, the population has increased by 210%. These are the drivers for the need for additional services.

“While the tax rate has gone down consistently over the years, the recent [tax rate] increases, are directly attributed to the addition of services the County is now providing – additional Judicial Services related to pre-trial services, additional magistration, the Public Defender’s Office, animal welfare services and more – which alone account for a $.0125 increase on the tax rate,” Dorsett said. “The judicial aspect of this is essential in reducing recidivism in Hays County. These are programs for which we haven’t had to tax citizens in the past due to available American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.”

This budget reflects both the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly growing county,” said Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra. “We are delivering essential services — from judicial and public safety programs to public infrastructure and mental health support — while keeping the tax rate among the lowest in the region. Our responsibility is to balance fiscal accountability with the needs of our community, and I believe this budget strikes that balance for the people of Hays County.”

Following the budget hearing, the court also voted unanimously, 5-0, to approve the FY26 salaries and allowances for elected officials.

For more information or to view budget documents, visit www.hayscountytx. com/budget-office.

Crosby Barry, 13, acted as MC at the event. Crosby, who has been singing, playing guitar, and writing songs for 5 years, also provided musical entertainment.

The event was organized by Lynne Webb and Kisha Brown.

Oct 3 • 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The Dripping Springs Art League is excited to announce Art After Hours - its first nighttime market. It’s indoors at Dripping Springs Distilling during their happy hour. Dripping Springs Distilling • 5330 Bell Springs Rd

• Dripping Springs, TX 78620

Boo at the Zoo Returns! 

Oct 3 & Oct 4 • 5:45 p.m. to 9 p.m.

During weekends in October, the Austin Zoo will be hosting Boo at the Zoo, a wildly spooky night of family fun. Visitors are invited to wear their favorite costumes and bring a picnic to enjoy in the Picnic Grove. There will be a haunted mansion full of spine-tingling surprises around every corner, or participants can hop aboard the eerie express for a nighttime train ride. Tickets are $24. Visit www.austinzoo.org for details. Austin Zoo • 10808 Rawhide Trail • Austin, TX 78736

World Space Week Kickoff at the Library 

Oct 4 • 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Explore the universe inside an inflatable plane-

The Shred Day event offers an easy, secure way to clear out clutter while protecting personal information. Documents will be shredded on-site, providing participants with peace of mind and a safer, cleaner home or office.

“We love hosting this annual event because it’s a simple way we can give back to the community,” said Steve Mallett, President, DS Elite. “Protecting sensitive information is important, and this free service makes it easy for residents and businesses to do just that.”