.png)
Staff Reports
January 4
Hays County launches new virtual pet resource center
Hays County has opened a new virtual pet resource center with Austin Pets Alive!, expanding the Positive Alternatives to Shelter Surrender program to further support people and pets.
January 11
DSISD hold discussions for second high school
Dripping Springs ISD is set to begin design work on its second high school — a project approved by voters in the May 2023 bond. The district’s second high school will accommodate 2,500 students in grades 9–12 on Darden Hill Road in Driftwood. At this point, only the design portion of the second high school has been approved by voters. Construction for the second high school would need to be funded through a future bond program.
January 18
TxDOT to hear comments on 290 widening project
The Texas Department of Transportation will host a virtual meeting to share proposed plans to widen and enhance the safety and mobility on US 290 from Oak Hill to Dripping Springs. The proposed project would reconstruct approximately 13 miles of U.S. Highway 290 from RM 1826 in southwest Austin to just west of RM 12 in Dripping Springs. The existing four lane, undivided roadway would be widened to a six-lane divided highway with frontage roads and shared-use paths. The design would eliminate traffic signals along the main lanes throughout the project corridor. The proposed design would be a controlled access highway, meaning drivers can access the main lanes via key entrance and exit ramp locations along the frontage roads. The project will connect to Oak Hill Parkway, currently
January 25
Housing prices falling in Hays County, Austin MSA
For anyone buying a house in the past several years, the price tag as well as the ins and outs of market dynamics can be intimidating. For one who is curious exactly what those numbers were in the past year compared to 2022, the Austin Board of Realtors December 2023 and Year-End Central Texas Housing Market Report will provide that information for all of the five counties in the Greater Austin area. 'Last year, a confluence of factors, but especially mortgage rates, posed a drag on the Austin housing market,” ABoR Housing Economist Clare Losey said. “A significant secondary factor was the artificial demand created by conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic—i.e., a low interest rate environment, work from home, a preference among buyers for more space, etc.—which led to a certain number of buyers deciding to purchase ‘early’ in 20202022 vs. otherwise purchasing a home in 2024, 2025, etc.”
February 1
Residents continue to protest concert venue at TCEQ meeting
A new commercial development on Fitzhugh Road continues to attract the focus of Dripping Springs residents and activists due to concerns the project could affect local waterways. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality held a meeting on Monday, January 29, “to obtain additional oral or written public comments on [a] draft [wastewater] permit.” The meeting included a question and answer portion with TCEQ staff and with representatives of the developer, Blizexas LLC, as well as a period of public comment. This was the second meeting held by the TCEQ to discuss the municipal wastewater permit application, which, if approved, would provide the development with its own municipal wastewater service and serve up to 5,000 people per day, three times a week, for six hours. Dozens of local residents, activists and media outlets attended, including representatives from the offices of Senator Donna Campbell and Representative Carrie Isaac. Among these individuals were members of the Stop Fitzhugh Concert Venue coalition, a group founded in 2022 in response to the development. “Plain and simple, this is just a bad idea,” founding member Carrie Napiorkowski told the Century News at the time. “Nobody in this community wants this concert venue here. We just don't think it is a good idea to put thousands of cars on Fitzhugh Road for concerts multiple times a week.”
February 8
One Shot hosts political rally for ‘God’s army’ convoy
A Dripping Springs business, One Shot Distillery, hosted a rally last week for the Take Our Border Back convoy, whose members largely identified themselves as members of “God’s army.” The convoy initially commenced its journey in Virginia, traveling through the United States on the way to the U.S.Mexico border. The convoy included participants from across the county, including musician Ted Nugent and former Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin, touting a national call to action for “law-abiding, freedomloving Americans” on its website. Organizers of the convoy have said they’re on a mission to stand up against the “globalists” who they claim are conspiring to keep U.S. borders open and “destroy the country,” as first reported by Vice.
February 15
District Clerk not held in contempt, judge says he was 'incapable' of carrying out duty
Hays County District Clerk Avrey Anderson was not held in contempt by Judge Tanner Neidhardt of the 483d Hays County District Court who said instead that he was “incapable,” on Tuesday. The proceedings also alleged that Anderson had fallen asleep during training that covered the software used to send out jury summons. This does not have a direct impact on a separate petition that has been filed to remove Anderson from office. Anderson was elected to a four-year term in 2022 as a 19-year-old who recently graduated from Dripping Springs High School. The Hays County website states that his “office is responsible for providing records of the District Courts’ proceedings, implementing District Court decisions, and administratively supporting the respective courts and judges.” These duties include summoning jurors to allow the courts to hold trials.
February 15
Skatepark breaks ground despite rain
The city of Dripping Springs held a groundbreaking and dedication ceremony last week for its skatepark development: the Dorian Kweller Skate Park. The name memorializes 16-year-old Dripping Springs High School student Dorian Kweller, who died in a car accident in February of 2023. He was an avid skateboarder and heavily involved in the Dripping Springs Skate Club, as well as an integral member of the Dripping Springs High School music program. He was an emerging musician who performed under the stage name “ZEV,” and was scheduled to make his live debut at South by Southwest music festival last year.
February 29
Swim team places 14th at state
Four Dripping Springs High School swimmers posted historic performances at the UIL 6A State Meet last weekend at the Jamail Texas Swimming Center in Austin to lift the Tigers to a 14th-place team finish. The quartet of Izzy Boldrick, Anna Hoskovec, Laurel Hoskovec and Macie McCurry recorded a school-record time of 1:37.63 in the 200-yard freestyle relay preliminaries on Friday to place sixth and qualify for Saturday’s finals. The team improved upon their record time in the finals with 1:37.01 to finish sixth and earn 26 team points for the Tigers.
March 7
TxDOT seeks public input on RM 1826 Project
The Texas Department of Transportation will hold a virtual public meeting with an in-person option to share proposed plans to widen and enhance safety and mobility on RM 1826 from US 290 to SH 45. The proposed project would widen RM 1826 from US 290 to SH 45, with construction extending to the Travis-Hays County line. The proposed 4.4 mile project would reduce congestion, improve mobility and safety, and enhance different modes of travel along RM 1826 to meet future traffic demand. The proposed project would widen an undivided two-lane roadway to a divided four-lane roadway, with dedicated left-turn lanes and a raised median. Shared-use paths would be constructed to accommodate bicyclists and pedestrians.
March 14
Results roll in for March 5 primary elections
Preliminary election results came in last week from voters in Hays County. On the Democratic ballot, 14,935 people voted in the March 5 primaries. On the Republican ballot, 18,187 people voted.
March 21
Dripping Springs enacts landscape ordinance
Dripping Springs City Council members approved a new landscape ordinance. The initiative marks a significant step towards creating a more vibrant environment for current and future Dripping Springs residents. According to a statement released by the city of Dripping Springs, the ordinance will help maintain a cohesive and visually appealing appearance throughout the city and mitigate the impacts of development. Developed through extensive collaboration between city officials, landscape experts and community stakeholders, the new landscape ordinance is intended to Dripping Springs’ commitment to responsible land use practices, the statement said. By establishing comprehensive guidelines for landscape design and management and by regulating aspects such as drought tolerant plant selection, tree preservation and drip irrigation incentives, the city can ensure that public spaces, streetscapes and private properties contribute positively to the overall landscape without putting an undue strain on local water resources
March 28
City presented DAR award for dark skies
The Sarah Pound Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution presented the city of Dripping Springs with the organization’s Conservation Award for the promotion of the Dark Sky Initiative. This award commends the city for outstanding achievement for environmental awareness.
April 4
County ranked 16th fastest growing in the nation
The population in Hays County is exploding. For several years now, the county has been in the top ten fastest growing counties in the nation. For the 2022 to 2023 data, it was bumped to the 16th fastest growing in the nation, but that’s not due to any slowdown in the quickly growing population. According to the Texas State Demographer Lloyd Potter, this just means that there are other counties in the U.S. that are growing even faster than Hays.
April 4
DSHS Speech & Debate heads to Nationals, earns honors
Seven Dripping Springs High School speech and debate students have qualified for the National Speech and Debate Association Tournament after competing at the Heart of Texas District Tournament on March 22-23 at Hendrickson High School in Pflugerville. In World Schools Debate, Jackson Berthelsen, Colton De Los Santos, Will McAdams, and Alexander Seshan were selected to represent the district at the national tournament. Liam Ianiro and Zoey Parks qualified in Big Questions Debate and Alicia Hernandez was a qualifier in Program Oral Interpretation.
April 11
Rare total solar eclipse darkens skies across Dripping Springs
Locals and visitors across the Dripping Springs area came together this week for a rare viewing experience: a total solar eclipse. The natural phenomenon, which occurred at 1:34 p.m. on April 8, cast the city into darkness for a total of two minutes and 58 seconds as the sun blocked out the moon. Despite weather forecasts predicting thunderstorms, the clouds held off just long enough for viewers to enjoy totality — and for two city employees to get engaged.
April 18
Hays County organ donations up from last year
The Hays County Commissioners Court recognized April 2023 as National Donate Life Month in Hays County, urging all residents to consider becoming donors. “I’m a two-time heart recipient. Both hearts [were] received at Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin,” said Lemuel Bradshaw, United Tissue Resources communications director. “I have ten grandchildren, none of whom were born before my very first of two transplants. What that means is the decisions that people like those in this room and others have made let me be a part of their lives.” The proclamation stated that National Donate Life Month is observed each April.
April 25
School district announces teachers of the year for 2024
Dripping Springs ISD announced Karalise Moreno and Libby Geisinger as the District Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year, respectively, at the DSISD Board of Trustees meeting on Monday. Moreno and Geisinger were chosen by a volunteer committee comprised of retired educators, and will now represent DSISD in the Region 13 Teacher of the Year selection process this summer.
May 2
Celebrating Founders Day
Mercer Street and the rest of downtown Dripping Springs was filled with bustling crowds over the weekend as residents and visitors alike celebrated at the annual Founders Day Festival, complete with a parade, carnival and barbecue competition, all of which took place from Friday through Sunday, April 26–28. This year's theme was 'Celestial Celebration.'
May 2
Unhoused population in county at highest measured
Accurate data on those that are unhoused in the community — including reasons for being unhoused, the amount of time without shelter, age and information on mental illness, substance abuse disorder and veteran status — is critical to receiving federal funding and identifying the type of prevention programs needed. The Homeless Coalition of Hays County, which is the local chapter of the Texas Homeless Network, conducts a Point in Time Count annually. The PIT count is a snapshot of the current data related to the unhoused that is gathered on a single night, which was January 25 this year. There were 246 total unhoused people found in Hays County in 2024 — the highest number found across the four years the survey has been conducted. This is done by other factions across the Texas Homeless Network (237 of the 254 counties) to develop statewide data related to the unhoused.
May 9
Three elected to DSISD Board of Trustees
According to unofficial election results, Mary Jane Hetrick, Stefani Reinold and Shanda DeLeon have been elected to three-year terms on the Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees. The recently elected trustees were the top three vote-getters in the May 4 local election. The DSISD Board of Trustees consists of seven unsalaried district patrons elected to three-year terms to represent all residents in the school district boundary. Dripping Springs ISD trustees do not represent “places.”
May 16
Hail, high winds cause damage across the county
It was a typical hot and humid afternoon with clear skies at 7:35 p.m. Thursday when phones across town began buzzing with an emergency alert from the National Weather Service that stated “Severe Thunderstorm Warning in effect for this area until 8:30 p.m. for destructive baseball size hail. Take shelter in a sturdy building, away from windows. People and animals outdoors will be severely injured.” Within ten minutes, the violent storm tore through the city. To add to the panic, a Tornado Warning was issued at 8:22 p.m., and residents across town – at least those willing to heed the warning – hunkered down in the innermost room of their homes and awaited an uncertain future. Nick Hampshire, National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio meteorologist, said as of right now, it appears that there was just widespread straight line winds and two to two and half inch hail spread across Hays County with pictures showing some pieces as large as four inches.
May 16
DSHS students claim runner-up titles in state speech contest
Dripping Springs High School freshman Anvika Jain and sophomore Elijah Slater each captured second-place finishes in their respective grade levels at the Texas Association for Pupil Transportation School Bus Safety Speech Contest.
May 30
Local restaurant named 'most beautiful' in Texas
One Dripping Springs restaurant was recently recognized by online restaurant-reservation company OpenTable as one of “The 50 most beautiful restaurants in America.” Tillie’s, located at luxury resort Camp Lucy, was named as the most beautiful restaurant in Texas. This recognition, according to OpenTable, was given for the restaurant’s (and surrounding property’s) “impressive, eclectic antiques.”In keeping with the artful atmosphere, Tillie’s culinary menu offers a modern interpretation of classic gourmet dishes, infused with innovative international flavors.
June 6
DSHS seniors graduate in postponed ceremony
Dripping Springs High School can officially boast 569 more alumni after graduating its 2023–2024 senior class this past weekend. Although the commencement ceremony was initially scheduled for Friday, May 31, heavy thunderstorms in the forecast caused Dripping Springs ISD officials to move the event to Saturday, June 1. The postponed ceremony went off without a hitch the following day, beginning at 8 p.m. Valedictorian William Johns and salutatorian Jaiden Stankard both spoke at Saturday’s graduation, part of the “Top 10” seniors ranked academically and previously recognized by the DSISD Board of Trustees in late April. Additional Top 10 seniors included Milad Khezrefaridi, Brenna Putman, Lauren Kethley, Presley Cochran, Alyssa Stradling, Kira Granberry, Jasmine Zogaib and Keira Maghielse.
June 13
Former cheer coach sentenced to life in prison for sexual abuse of a child
Andrew Alan Brown, 38, of Dripping Springs, was sentenced to life in prison on May 30 after being found guilty of continuous sexual abuse of a child younger than 14 years old earlier this year. Brown was a real estate agent who also worked with young children as a cheer coach. According to a report following Brown’s arrest, the Dripping Springs Century News said that Brown was the owner of a cheer gym in Dripping Springs.
June 27
Man arrested after reports of aggressive behavior, gunshots
A Dripping Springs man was arrested after the Hays County Sheriff ’s Office was called to the 600 block of Terrace Canyon Dr. for reported gunshots. The incident took place shortly after 1:21 pm on Saturday, June 22. Witnesses there told deputies that a man — later identified as Nathan Nattin IV — was seen walking in the street, yelling obscenities and imitating a gun with his hand. The man was also seen running aggressively toward houses and down a driveway, according to witnesses. Witnesses said they heard gunshots fired and an explosion near the residence, but they did not report seeing a weapon. When deputies arrived, they reported they were shot at once, according to the HSCO spokesman Lt. Clint Pulpan
June 27
Festival draws local support for LGBTQ+ community
Hundreds of local Dripping Springs residents attended the annual pride festival at Dripping Springs Ranch Park on Saturday, June 22. “This event was our best ever,” said Juana Searcy, founder of Pride of Dripping Springs, which sponsors the event. 'There was a lot of positive energy and the talent we had was fantastic. We really appreciate all the entertainers who share their talents.” Pride of Dripping Springs, which puts on the event, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to broadening awareness and creating an environment of diversity and inclusion through education, resources and events for the LGBTQ+ community. This is the fourth year for the pride festival.
July 4
Trustees approve $100 million budget for new school year
The Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the 2024-25 fiscal year budget at its meeting on June 24. The $100.4 million operating budget, less recapture, allocates 84% of its budget in payroll for nearly 1,100 district employees. The remaining 16% of the budget will be used for classroom supplies, utilities, professional development, transportation, safety, and travel.
July 11
Hays County Clerk resigns from post amidst petition to remove him for incompetence
Hays County District Clerk Avrey Anderson resigned from his office on July 5 following pressure to step down or face removal from office. Anderson faced growing criticism and a petition to remove him from the office for an alleged failure in his leadership to effectively manage the office of District Clerk for Hays County government. The District Clerk’s Office is led by the District Clerk which is an elected position. The district clerk is responsible for providing records of the District Courts’ proceedings, implementing District Court decisions, and administratively supporting the respective courts and judges. Anderson, who was elected in by Hays County voters in 2022, defeated incumbent Beverly Crumley, who served in that position for 12 years. Anderson graduated from Dripping Springs High School in 2021.
July 11
Two new EMS stations set to open to meet increase in medical emergency
Construction of two new EMS stations 74 and 75 is nearly complete and both are expected to be operational later this month to serve the emergency medical calls of residents in the northern areas of the county. North Hays County EMS is the emergency medical services provider for the northern portion of Hays County, including Dripping Springs, Driftwood and Henly, with a service area covering some 244 square miles. The two new locations will improve response times, helping to preserve human life, allowing Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics to provide the critical and timely care needed and if necessary, transport patients to medical facilities,” according to Bob Luddy, district administrator for the North Hays County EMS.
July 11. There are about 20 traps in and around the Dripping Springs and Driftwood area but no mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus. These are the first reported West Nile Virus-positive IDs of the 2024 season in Hays County July 18
Festival exit leaves Pound House to seek new funds to operate historic museum
The Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival is moving from the town in its name to the city of Uhland in east Hays county and rebranding itself as the Uhland Fall Fest. The festival held its last event at the Pound House Farmstead grounds in October 2023, after a three-year run. The festival was well attended, drawing 70,000 visitors over six weekends. But the festival quickly outgrew the capacity of the park and drew complaints from some residents of heavy traffic and increasing safety concerns for fire and emergency medical services. City officials told the Century News that the festival was popular, especially with families and children and would have liked to have such a festival if it had a larger facility to host the weekend crowds and the traffic it attracted. Instead, this fall, the festival will be held in the town of Uhland in the eastern part of the county.
July 25
Mosquitos carrying West Nile Virus found in Hays County
Public health officials urge Texans to be vigilant in protecting against mosquito bites after confirming the first Texas case of West Nile virus and 10 travel-associated dengue cases this year alone. In Hays county, officials confirmed last week that several mosquito trap samples collected in the Wimberley area tested positive for West Nile Virus. The positive samples were collected from two sites in and around the city of Wimberley on August 1
Skaters shred opening day of DZK Skatepark
After 10 years of dreaming, planning, petitioning and fundraising, the community gathered Saturday, July 27, at Founders Memorial Park for the official opening of the Dorian Zev Kweller Skatepark. Officials from Hays County, the city of Dripping Springs, and board members of the Dripping Springs Community Foundation joined the Kweller family, skatepark initiative leader Dennis Baldwin, skaters and their supporters for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Dennis Baldwin, who spearheaded the effort to bring the park to fruition, welcomed the crowd. “On behalf of the entire skate community during this 10-year journey, I would like to thank the Dripping Springs Community Foundation for your fiscal sponsorship and nonprofit guidance. You went above and beyond in supporting our zany ideas and fundraisers. Thanks also to the Dripping Springs Parks and Rec Commission for your input and advocacy, and for supporting us in naming the park after Dorian.”
August 8
Community rallies for injured DSHS grad: Benefit concert set for August 11
What should have been a joyous high school graduation trip for Luca Picucci and his friends and families to Cancun, Mexico, was anything but when on June 6 the Dripping Springs High graduate suffered a terrible accident. Picucci, a starting linebacker for the Dripping Springs HS Tigers football team, had emergency surgery in Mexico for a fractured vertebrae and spinal cord swelling. He was then transported back to Austin by medevac to completely redo the surgery at Dell Seton Hospital, a Level 1 Trauma Center. After a month in hospitals, he is now in full recovery mode with a grueling therapy schedule. For the Picucci family, the accident not only disrupted their lives but also left them with substantial medical bills. Because the accident happened in Mexico, it is unclear if any of the hospital bills or the medevac flight will be covered by the family’s insurance. The specialists working on Luca’s recovery are another expense. The Dripping Springs community and so many from beyond have raised tens of thousands of dollars for Luca, but more help is needed. On Sunday, August 11, from 5-9 p.m., the Hudson family, through their business Hudsons on Mercer, will host a benefit concert to raise money for Luca’s recovery.
August 15
Residents of Gateway Estates ask for more time amid eviction deadline
Residents of the Gateway Estates, a mobile home community just east of the Dripping Springs city limits, are seeking more time after receiving 60-day notices to vacate their homes from the park's owner, Gateway Development LLC. The residents received letters, which they describe as eviction notices, informing them they must move their homes within 60 days. Several residents appealed to the Dripping Springs City Council on Aug. 6, asking for the city's intervention. Gateway Development LLC, which purchased the property in March 2022, has not yet filed redevelopment plans with the city's development services department. The company says residents have been on month-to-month leases for more than a year, and the 60-day notice is standard practice when terminating leases.
August 22
Patriots’ Hall of Dripping Springs hosts open house
The long-anticipated Patriots’ Hall of Dripping Springs held an open house August 17 and 18 to give veterans and the public a sneak-peek to the campus’ latest additions. Dripping Springs has long had a strong sense of civic pride, and the new Patriots' Hall is poised to become a vital resource for the estimated 14,000 veterans in the area. When you add the families of those military veterans, the impact for the community is even larger. The facility provides a 10-acre retreat and resource hub for all veterans and their families to connect and thrive. One of the key features of Patriots' Hall concept is its focus on inclusivity. Unlike more traditional veteran organizations that have struggled to engage younger or more diverse veterans, Patriots' Hall aims to create a space where all veterans and their families feel welcome. This includes offering a variety of programs and services that cater to different interests and needs, from educational workshops to recreational activities. It will also be a place where veterans can connect to services that help with benefits, mental health assistance, and wellness programs.
August 29 Hays County Commissioners Court approve asking voters to approve $440 million bond package in November
With the rapidly growing population in Hays County, so too is the ever expansion of infrastructure. The Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a road bond for the upcoming election in an effort to ensure that the roads evolve alongside the influx of people at the regularly-scheduled meeting Tuesday. Many people spoke in public comment against the specifics of the bond. After direction from the court at the previous meeting, the road improvement projects are now categorized by city or area rather than the precinct number — San Marcos area project, Kyle area project, etc. Now listed under San Marcos area projects are the Leah Avenue Mobility Project and the Centerpoint Road Safety Project. Buda area projects are SH 45 Southwest Extension Regional Connectivity Project, Old San Antonio Road Safety Project, Hillside Terrace Mobility Project and FM 2001 Gap Safety Project. Dripping Springs Area Projects are Darden Hill Extension Mobility Project, RR12/ FM 150 Intersection Safety Improvements Safety Project and Dripping Springs Southwest Connection Regional Connectivity Project. Eastern County Projects are Cotton Gin Road Safety Project, Dairy Road Safety Project, William Pettus Road Extension Mobility Project and Old Bastrop Highway Safety Project. Kyle Area Projects are Windy Hill Interim Mobility Project, Windy Hill Roundabout Mobility Project, Windy Hill Ultimate Mobility Project, Goforth Road Regional Connectivity Project, RM 150 East Mobility Project, Yarrington Road Extension Segment 1 and Segment 2 Regional Connectivity Project and Bunton Lane/Heidenreich Lane/ Grist Mill Road Safety/ Mobility Project. Uhland Area Projects are FM 2001 East Safety / Mobility Project and High Road Mobility Project. Western County Projects are Darden Hill Phase 2 Safety / Mobility Project, Sawyer Ranch Road Pedestrian Walkway Safety Project, Sawyer Ranch Road Widening Mobility Project and Fitzhugh Road Mobility Project. The only Wimberley Area Project is the Old Kyle Road Safety Project.
September 5
SH 45 feasibility study wraps up
On August 29, Hays county, in partnership with the city of Buda held their final open house in Buda for local residents to review and comment on the feasibility study to design and construct an extension of SH 45 between IH-35 and FM 1626. The first open house took place on June 15, 2023, when the study was introduced to the public. A second open house was held on December 7, 2023, to share preliminary route concepts and gather public feedback. Input from these sessions has been used to further develop the preliminary route concept. The feasibility study explores closing a critical 'gap' in the SH 45 highway system, connecting SH 45 SW in Hays and Travis counties to SH 45, east of Interstate 35. The proposed extension would pass through several large tracts of land in Buda and Manchaca. The need for the study was identified in the 2021 Hays Transportation Plan and in the larger CAMPO 2045 Regional Transportation Plan.
September 19
City releases draft of 'Reimagine Dripping Springs' comprehensive plan
The city of Dripping Springs has released a draft of its comprehensive plan, titled “Reimagine Dripping Springs.” The plan is a visionary roadmap designed to guide growth and development in the city over the next 20 years. The draft reflects extensive community input, research, and forward-thinking strategies aimed at ensuring Dripping Springs remains a thriving, sustainable place to live, work, and play. The plan outlines priorities for future land use and major development projects, guiding real estate decisions, infrastructure investments, economic development, and zoning policies.
September 26
DSISD sets 2024 school tax rate at $1.1052
Trustees of the Dripping Springs Independent School District voted Monday to set the district’s property tax rate for 2024 at $1.1052 per $100 in valuation. In 2023, the tax rate was 1.1075. While the approved 2024 tax rate is lower than last year, the estimated taxable value of a home in the district is $578,156 compared to $558,247 in 2023. For homeowners, that translates to an increase this year of about $207, or $17 per month on the average taxable home value in the district.
September 26
City of Dripping Springs sets budget, tax rate
After months of budget planning and amendments, the City of Dripping Springs voted to adopt the budget for Fiscal Year 2025 totaling $44.10 million. The fiscal year starts October 1. The budget passed unanimously at the council regular meeting on September 16. The budget includes $14.707 million for General Fund expenditures; $27.664 million for utility services; $1.221 million for Ranch Park and $507,682 for the Visitors bureau. The city council also approved the tax rate at .1794 cents.
October 3
Community rallies to support Gateway Estates families facing relocation
On July 29, 43 families at the Gateway Estates mobile home community were informed by the park’s owner, Gateway Development LLC, that their month-to-month leases would not be renewed. They were given 60 days to vacate their lots. The news shocked many residents, who immediately contacted the City of Dripping Springs, pleading for more time to relocate their mobile homes. However, city officials said there was little they could do to stop the eviction. Local housing advocates have stepped in to assist the residents in finding housing. Many of the families lack sufficient savings to move their homes and belongings. Finding an affordable lot with essential services like electricity, water, and septic or sewer is difficult in Dripping Springs, and rental costs for mobile home lots can be as high as $1,400 per month, depending on location and amenities. Moving a mobile home can cost up to $20,000, including preparation, towing, and setup. Advocates from Dripping Springs Helping Hands, Dripping Springs Hometown Missions, Project Connect, and the Friends Foundation formed the group Gateway for Hope to raise funds and pool volunteer resources to support the Gateway families. For two months, volunteers have been working with residents to explore housing alternatives and draft action plans. The developer has offered to work with residents and provide more time to move if they can demonstrate, with documentation, that they have a plan in place. For those with a moving plan, the developer has agreed to cover the cost of relocating their homes within a 50-mile radius.
October 10
City Hall remodel begins, staff relocated during construction
The City of Dripping Springs has begun a remodeling construction project for City Hall. Last week, city staff moved to temporary workspaces at other city buildings and offices as workers began demolishing the interior walls and ceilings of the City Hall building located at 511 Mercer St. During the renovation, all City Hall employees, primarily administrative staff, will work from alternate locations to ensure uninterrupted access to city services. The renovation is in response to the city’s growth, with some offices currently housing two or three employees in spaces designed for one. The project will expand office space and modernize the facility. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2025, and include additional offices, structural upgrades, energy-efficient systems, improved audiovisual capabilities for City Council meetings, and enhanced accessibility features in line with current safety standards.
October 10
Patriots’ Hall opens its doors with ribbon-cutting
More than 100 people joined local officials and Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce ambassadors on October 3 for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting at Patriots' Hall of Dripping Springs (PHDS), marking a key milestone in providing a home for veterans and their families in North Hays County. Patriots' Hall is reimagining the traditional veterans' club, offering a modern, inclusive environment for veterans of all ages and backgrounds. Unlike aging Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion halls, which have struggled to maintain decades-old meet ing spaces and attract younger veterans, PHDS aims to engage veterans from more recent conflicts, such as those in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as their families. After the ribbon cutting, guests gathered in the main hall to raise a glass of champagne and toast the opening. 'Patriots' Hall is a place to enable veterans and their fami- lies to connect, grow, and thrive,' said retired Gen. Scott McKean, the first executive director of Patriots' Hall. 'We have so many veterans living here in Dripping Springs and the surrounding area who don't even know their neighbor is a veteran. Sometimes, you just need to talk to someone with a shared experience.”
October 17
DSISD to begin rezoning process as enrollment grows
Dripping Springs ISD will hold four community meetings in October to present initial options for new elementary and middle school attendance zones, as the district prepares for the opening of its sixth elementary school and the expansion of Sycamore Springs Middle School in August 2025.
October 24
10 years of music: Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival
Downtown Mercer Street was buzzing this past weekend as the city of Dripping Springs hosted the 10th annual Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival. More than 40 local and national artists performed at the threeday event. Audiences enjoyed a variety of songs, with performances held in small, intimate venues where songwriters shared the stories behind their music. Each show ran for about 90 minutes, with artists performing 'inthe- round,' a Nashville-style format where they share the stage. This year’s festival was a success, and continues to be better each year, according to Pam King, who is the City's tourism manager. Her staff works with other city staff and an army of volunteers to plan and manage the logistics of such a large event.
October 31
Cooler weather and soup await at Empty Bowls Project
Cooler, wetter weather is expected this weekend, and for many, that means it’s time for soup. If that sounds like you, you're in luck— the Empty Bowls Project, a highlight on the Dripping Springs fall social calendar, is happening this weekend. The event, which transforms Dripping Springs Ranch Park Event Center into a culinary celebration with chef-prepared soups, live music, and handcrafted bowls symbolizing hope for those in need, returns Sunday, November 3, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Ranch Park venue. The annual Empty Bowls Project benefits Dripping Springs Helping Hands and offers attendees an afternoon of food, art, and community for a good cause.
November 14
From shelters to service: How Texas dogs are transforming lives
Service Dogs, Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Dripping Springs, has been transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities since its inception in 1988. Founded by attorney Sheri Soltes, the organization is dedicated to enhancing independence and quality of life through partnerships with custom-trained assistance dogs, provided free of charge to Texas clients. Unlike many service dog programs that rely on breeding, Service Dogs, Inc. adopts young adult dogs from shelters and rescue organizations, focusing on those with temperaments suited for service work. This approach not only provides a second chance for these animals but also addresses the needs of clients requiring assistance. The organization employs positive reinforcement training methodologies, ensuring that the dogs are well-prepared to support their future partners. “We get our dogs from animal shelters throughout Texas. On average, we pull one dog from every third shelter we go to. Sometimes we'll get multiple dogs. The process starts with just a general walkthrough. We see dogs that are kind of more composed amongst the rambunctious ones. And then we take those dogs if they match our age requirements and health requirements, and then we'll cross reference behavior reports with the shelter staff. And so we usually look at anywhere from one to about five dogs in a yard itself, where we then go into what their instincts are and see if it's something we can mold into service. Service dog training is a lengthy process. So the dogs that come here are very special,” Soltes said.
November 21
Treaty Oak sold to High Basin Brands
High Basin Brands, a new premium spirits company based in Dripping Springs, has announced its official launch alongside the acquisition of Treaty Oak Brewing and Distilling, one of Texas' oldest and most celebrated distilleries. Treaty Oak, known for its award-winning whiskeys and expansive 25-acre distillery in Dripping Springs, is set to undergo an organic transformation under its new ownership.
November 28
Knights of Columbus Donate Food for Hays County Brown Santa Program
The Dripping Springs Knights of Columbus have once again stepped up to support the Hays County Brown Santa program, a charitable initiative that provides food and toys to families in need during the holiday season. Jimmy Winkler, a member of the Knights of Columbus, recently delivered pallets of canned green beans and corn to the Hays County Precinct 4 office in Dripping Springs. These donations will help provide Thanksgiving meals to families participating in the Brown Santa program. “This is our seventh annual year of giving back to Brown Santa,” Winkler said. “It’s an outreach to people needing assistance … During the holidays, families get together, which is very important whether it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas. This allows us to help those already struggling get through the season without taking on more debt. We want them to enjoy Thanksgiving too. It is a good way for us to buy into our own community and give back.”
December 5
‘Road rage’ leads to auto-pedestrian fatality
Charles Allen Rice, 40, of Austin, was arrested for manslaughter, a second degree felony, related to the death of John Paul Ramirez following an alleged road-side confrontation. Ramirez, 45, was struck by a vehicle near the intersection of Nutty Brown Road and Highway 290 on November 29. The crash occurred just before 11 a.m. “Following a confrontation outside his vehicle with another driver, Ramirez fell into the eastbound lane and was struck by an oncoming vehicle,” Billy Ray, with the Texas Department of Transportation, said. Ramirez was taken to a hospital in Austin where he was pronounced dead.
December 12
Stars of Dripping Springs unveils first six sculptures
twinkles with a new kind of starlight as the Stars of Dripping Springs art initiative unveiled its first six star sculptures. The city-wide public art project, spearheaded by the city of Dripping Springs, Destination Dripping Springs, the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce and the Dripping Springs Art League, celebrates the city’s identity as the first International Dark Sky Community in Texas and aims to showcase local artistry while fostering community pride.
December 19
Constable Hood retirement celebrates 45 years of service
The Precinct 4 Constables Office held a retirement celebration for Constable Ron Hood on December 11, at the Precinct 4 Justice of the Peace Courtroom. Hood has served as Precinct 4 Constable since 2009, and the event celebrated his retirement after a 45year career in law enforcement. In a statement to the Century News, Ron Hood said, “Serving the public in Pct. 4 has been my greatest job…ever! I am humbled to have had the privilege to serve as their Constable and for their faith and trust in me. I want them to know that the Constable’s Office and I worked every day knowing we had to earn that trust and not to take it for granted…and I hope we have. The people here have been the most incredible bosses and the best community to have worked for. But honestly, I have always thought of them first as my friends and neighbors, and I always will. My family and I have been truly blessed to have been a part of this amazing community.”
December 26
DSISD Board approves new attendance zones
The Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees has approved new attendance zones for elementary and middle schools, effective in the 202526 school year. The changes account for the addition of Elementary School #6, currently under construction in the Headwaters neighborhood, and the expansion of Sycamore Springs Middle School to accommodate 1,200 students, up from its current capacity of 850. The adjustments aim to balance enrollment districtwide. They will alleviate overcrowding at Dripping Springs Elementary and Walnut Springs Elementary while increasing student numbers at underutilized campuses on the district’s east side, including Cypress Springs, Rooster Springs and Sycamore Springs. The middle school zoning changes will also shift more students to Sycamore Springs to help manage the projected growth at Dripping Springs Middle School.
