Elgin Independent School District trustees have chosen an experienced administrator to take over at the helm as officials continue a statewide search for a permanent superintendent.

Stormy Hickman was selected to serve as interim superintendent following the upcoming retirement of Jana Rueter June 30. The transition comes after the board announced in May it had retained the Texas Association of School Boards Executive Search Services to assist with recruitment.

“I am honored and excited to lead our district through this important time,” Hickman said. “I look forward to partnering closely with our staff, families, board and community as we continue to move forward with a shared commitment to student success.”

Hickman currently serves as deputy superintendent and previously held the position of executive director of teaching and learning within the district.

Officials said her two decades in education show leadership experience at multiple levels, including classroom teaching and district administration.

“Dr. Hickman is the right leader for this moment in our district’s history,” Board President Byron Mitchell said. “She has the management skills, situational experience and educational knowledge and expertise that are ideal for all of our Wildcats.”

District leaders are also seeking community feedback as part of their search for Rueter’s permanent replacement. Residents can help identify suitable candidates through a questionnaire at elginisd.net.

Elgin Police Department officers executed arrest and search warrants at 13108 County Line Road, arresting Paul Zapata on site. Authorities later located and arrested Salman Choudhary and Hamza Kholia, according to reports.

All three suspects were booked into the Travis County Jail.

“It was a backroom operation and not in a public space,” Elgin Public Information Officer Stacey Osborne said.

Choudhary and Kholia are each charged with second-degree felony theft, third-degree felony money laundering and first-degree felony engaging in organized criminal activity. Zapata is charged with second- degree felony theft and first-degree felony engaging in organized criminal activity.

Felony charges will be prosecuted through Travis County, according to officials.

The investigation remains ongoing as Elgin police search for additional suspects connected to the operation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Jake Engle at 512-285-5757 or jake.engle@elgintexas.gov.

Elgin Independent School District alumni and community members will gather later this month for an all-class reunion celebrating distinguished graduates and longtime contributors.

The annual Purple and White Jubilee begins June 27 with an awards ceremony at 2 p.m. in the Elgin High School auditorium, 14000 County Line Road. Organizers said the celebration, which began in 2010, brings together generations of Elgin residents and recognizes graduates for achievements in business, community service, social services and the arts.

This year’s ceremony will feature a special posthumous honor for 1974 Elgin High graduate Ricky Rodriguez. He will receive the inaugural Ricky Rodriguez Legacy of Excellence Award, which will go on to recognize graduates who demonstrate leadership, service and dedication to the community.

Organizers said Rodriguez’s mentorship of youth through his business reflected the spirit of Elgin, along with his involvement in the Boy Scouts of America, Sacred Heart Catholic Church and support for elderly residents and people in need.

Adam Muery, a 1994 EHS graduate, is set to receive the distinguished alumni award for business and professional achievement. George Wesley Smith Jr., of Washington High School Class of 1963, will be honored for community service. Ashton Howell, a 2007 EHS graduate, will be recognized for contributions in social services and the arts.

The EISD Distinguished Service Award will be presented to Cheryl Thomas.

Organizers will also spotlight graduating classes from the 1940s and honor the late Homer Johnson, a member of EHS Class of 1950, for his efforts restoring composite class photographs displayed in the halls of the district administration building.

Organizers said all community members, including non-district graduates, are invited to attend the celebration and reunion activities, which will include music, entertainment and reconnection opportunities.

The full-time position within the Development Services Department will be responsible for administering and enforcing building codes, permitting, inspections and related regulatory functions. Development Services Director Beau Perry said the city is currently reliant on third-party reviewers and inspectors, which can create delays and limit communication between residents and the people reviewing their projects.

“You don’t have that interface that’s really important to citizens looking to redistribute or invest in their properties,” he said.

Perry said the position has existed for years but remained vacant because qualified applicants were difficult to find. The duties have been absorbed by other positions or distributed among other departments.

“It’s probably going on six to seven years since the city actually had a true building official that can actually represent the city on a face-to-face basis with the public,” he said. “This position will fill that void.”

Officials said the goal of the position is to provide residents, contractors and developers with a local point of contact for permitting and inspection questions while reducing spending and reliance on outside reviewers.

According to Perry, the position would be especially beneficial for homeowners and small business owners undertaking smaller projects.

“They understand the community, they can be here — they can talk to them — they can work through those permitting frustrations,” he said.

The staffing request comes as Elgin experiences growth on multiple fronts, from the town’s first speculative industrial project approved in late April, to local redevelopment and reinvestment.

Perry described the position as an important step in matching city services to Elgin’s continued growth.

“I think this would show that the city is serious,” Perry said. “Everybody can make an investment back to the city.”

Commissioners last week cleared the way for SpaceX to seek designation tied to a proposed $855 million expansion of its Bastrop Starlink facility, opening the floor for familiar debates surrounding incentives and environmental concerns.

County officials approved an enterprise project nomination related to the company’s growing Starlink manufacturing operation May 26. The approval allows SpaceX to pursue a triple jumbo enterprise project designation through the Texas Enterprise Zone Program for the expansion and up to $3.75 million in state sales tax refunds.

With the designation, the program’s highest level, the expansion would bring increased manufacturing capacity, warehouse space and production infrastructure. SpaceX officials said the company looks to produce 10 million Starlink kits annually by the end of 2026 and add hundreds of jobs with average salaries exceeding $75,000.

“This keeps Bastrop and Texas at the center of our Starlink program, and we plan to move all Starlink kit production here to Bastrop County,” said Damian Barrera, tax department senior manager at SpaceX. “The real impact, we believe, of this investment is in job creation.”

Barrera said SpaceX already employs 1,590 workers at the Bastrop facility and has surpassed the 500-job threshold required for the designation during the first five months of 2026. The satellite and space exploration company is currently hiring 100 to 150 employees for positions including technicians, operators, engineers and support staff.

Under the enterprise zone terms, according to Barrera, 35% of new jobs are required to be filled by residents of economically disadvantaged areas.

“The majority of the jobs will be entry level, producing very great jobs of high technical quality work for the local workforce,” he said.

The nomination drew voices in favor and criticism from residents during public comment, with opponents questioning the potential impacts of ramping industrial growth.

Kathryn Hammer urged commissioners to delay similar projects until more environmental analysis is completed.

“Growth cannot come at the expense of our community,” she said. “Fixing environmental and infrastructure damage after the fact will be far more costly than implementing common sense regulations now.”

Supporters of the project argued the expansion would bring jobs and long-term tax revenue to the county.

“SpaceX is projected to pay more than $10 million to Bastrop Independent School District within the first year,” resident Lauren Underwood said. “That’s a pretty good deal if they’re only getting a $3 million tax payment.”

Kamil Cook, an organizer with Public Citizen, said residents across Texas are questioning large-scale technology and industrial projects. Cook asked whether a company associated with what could become one of the largest public offerings in history should receive any form of public incentive.

“Elon Musk says he’s going to be paying for it, but we’re going to be paying a lot more,” Cook said. “If they’re going to invest almost $900 million in capital, why not invest a few million more?”

County officials emphasized SpaceX has not requested or received county property tax abatements.

Commissioner Clara Beckett said counties have limited authority over commercial development under Texas law and often use incentive negotiations as one of the few available tools.

“It’s a state program … they’re entitled to it if they create the jobs they’re saying,” Beckett said. “That’s why I’m supporting it, we need jobs for our youth.”

Beckett said Bastrop County is joining neighboring counties in urging state lawmakers to grant local governments greater oversight authority over commercial development projects.

“In the last three sessions of the legislature, there hasn’t been a lot of movement,” she said. “We’re there fighting for your voice.”

An Elgin teenager officials say is lucky to be alive after being crushed by a vehicle last month recently met with the first responders who helped save his life in an emotional reunification ceremony.

Juan Tomelloso Chavez, 17, was working on an SUV May 12 when a lift gave out and the vehicle collapsed onto his chest. He went into traumatic cardiac arrest before responding crews lifted the vehicle using hydraulic tools and began CPR and other life-support measures.

Four days after being airlifted to Dell Children’s Hospital in Austin, Tomelloso Chavez is out and walking on his own without any deficits, according to Bastrop/ Travis County Emergency Services District No. 1 Battalion Chief Eran Denzler.

“It definitely was a miracle,” Denzler said. “In medical cases involving traumatic cardiac arrest, survival rates are typically estimated between 2% and 8%. Those odds decrease of surviving without deficits.”

Members of Bastrop County Dispatch, Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office, Elgin Police Department, Bastrop/Travis County ESD No. 1, Acadian Ambulance and PHI Med 14 — all of whom had a hand in saving Tomelloso Chavez’s life — met with the survivor and his family May 26 at First Baptist Church in Elgin.

The teenager said he does not remember anything other than waking up in the hospital in pain after the vehicle fell on him.

“I know it’s easy to fall into the trap of, ‘this is our job, this is what we do,’ but all of the training hours and other things that seem mundane paid off for moments like this,” said Jason Huddleston, FBC Elgin senior pastor. “When you watch a physical resurrection like that — it’s biblical stuff.”

Huddleston also had a message for Tomelloso Chavez.

“You’re a miracle … God has a purpose for your life, brother,” Huddleston said. “We don’t get these second chances for no reason. I thank God for all of you and the miraculous work He has done.”

After moving forward from such a significant incident without lasting injury, Tomelloso Chavez said he looks at things differently now.

“I’m grateful to God for giving me a second chance,” he said.

A man allegedly upset after being refused sex remains jailed without bond following an early morning assault and three-hour standoff near Lake Bastrop last month, court records show.

Deputies booked Gregory Lowe Jr., 39, into Bastrop County Jail after negotiators secured his surrender about 10 a.m. May 14. He faces a charge of aggravated assault with a weapon causing serious bodily injury, a first-degree felony.

According to an arrest affidavit, the suspect was turned down during the early morning hours and involved in an argument with the victim at a residence on the 200 block of Plum Drive.

Reports said the suspect left for work before returning a short time later and kicking the door open. Armed with a baseball bat and a knife, he allegedly grabbed the victim by her hair and dragged her from the residence.

The suspect ran back inside after seeing an oncoming vehicle, according to the affidavit, and barricaded himself in the residence.

Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived on scene and traffic along Plum Drive was rerouted while a surrender was negotiated.

Lowe awaits trial in the 423rd District Court.

Deja Pool, a life skills teacher at Neidig Elementary School, was named Elementary Teacher of the year. Christy Gruetzner, a seventh grade math and pre-algebra teacher at Elgin Middle School, earned Secondary Teacher of the Year honors.

“Winning District Teacher of the Year is more than an award — it is a reminder that the long days, hard work and the love poured into students truly matter,” Pool said. “I am honored to represent a profession that changes lives every single day.”

Gruetzner said her connection to the Elgin community began long before she became a teacher.

“I used to drive by EMS and think, ‘I want to be there’,” Gruetzner said. “It is an honor to teach for this district and watch our children learn and grow into adulthood.”

District officials said Gruetzner’s recognition marks back-to-back years that teachers from EMS have won District Teacher of the Year awards.

Elementary and secondary district honorees are selected from the campus Teachers of the Year and will represent Elgin ISD at the Region 13 Teacher of the Year luncheon, where they will be eligible for Regional Teacher of the Year recognition.

According to officials, each campus selects its honoree through a peer vote that evaluates educators on their ability to inspire diverse learners, contribute to school and community life, and demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills. Campus honorees included Paula Birran of Booker T. Washington Elementary School, Michelle Gonzales of Elgin Elementary School, Laci Bane of Harvest Ridge Elementary School, Christian Nuncio of Trinity Ranch Elementary School, Deloras Overstreet of Elgin Intermediate School, Charles Hodge of Elgin High School and Karla Arce Sanchez, who was named Employee of the Year at Phoenix High School.

Elgin High School Class of 2026 graduation speakers May 22 touched on the resilience of their peers, a community of young learners prepared to enter the next chapter of their lives.

Elgin Independent School district leaders once again saw the Shoreline Church floor in Austin fill with students during this year’s commencement ceremony, backed by a sea of proud parents. Before receiving their diplomas, graduating seniors reflected on the challenges they say shaped their experience as Wildcats and those who helped overcome them.

“None of us reached this stage alone,” class salutatorian Cassie Rice said. “Teachers helped us with tutoring lessons, staff members ensured that we were safe at school and family members encouraged us to continue our education.”

Rice stressed the importance of support systems, thanking her family members individually. She urged her peers to pursue their goals despite any obstacles that may stand in their way.

“The road will be hard and full of unexpected challenges,” she said. “But the ability for you to create these changes depends on you.”

Rice earned an associate degree through dual- credit coursework while serving as student council president and participating in theater, color guard and Girl Scouts. She plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin in the fall, alongside valedictorian Valerie Bradford.

In her speech, Bradford focused on individuality and self-acceptance, warning classmates not to compare themselves to others.

“You don’t have to be like anyone else,” Bradford said. “Being you should be good enough for you and everyone around you.”

Bradford, who also earned an associate degree while in high school, served as student council secretary for three years and competed as a state finalist in winter guard for two consecutive years.

With eyes on the future, after reflecting on her high school career, Bradford said every person contributes unique strengths to society.

“We need teachers and chefs, we need doctors and firefighters,” she said. “Everyone brings a different set of skills to the table. They allow us to support each other and learn from other people.”

These sentiments were echoed by district faculty, many emotional despite having gone through the scene several times before.

“We gather not only to celebrate diplomas and accomplishments, but to honor a truth you have lived,” Principal Armetrius Staples said. “We are stronger together.”

Officials again gave recognition to the role families, teachers and community members played in helping students reach the stage that night.

“See the faces of those who cheered for you, who corrected your drafts, who drove you to practice, sat through your performances and games,” Staples said. “Their presence is part of your achievement here tonight.”

The ceremony concluded with the loud cheers and inevitable tears of loved ones, as Staples reminded graduates the values they gained during their time at Elgin High will continue to shape their futures.

“Lead with courage, serve with humility and love with intention,” she said. “Class of 2026, we made it here together.”

At its May 12 meeting, City Council committed to reducing fatalities and serious injury crashes by 50% by 2035 and eliminating them entirely by 2050, aligning with the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) and Texas Road to Zero initiatives.

The pledge comes as Texas Department of Transportation data shows 446 crashes involving 905 vehicles were reported in Bastrop in 2025, with nearly 1,200 people involved. Countywide, 2,335 crashes were reported during the same period.

Mayor Pro Tem John Kirkland said at first he was concerned about the state’s push for a zero fatality goal. “The only conceivable way to do that is to shut off our roads,” Kirkland said. “Given that the goal is not actually achievable, is that a concern? Is there a penalty for not getting to that?”

Business and Community Development Manager Jill Strube said there is no punishment tied to the goal and that the effort is about establishing a downward trend.

Council members approved two pedestrian safety projects to be submitted as SS4A grant applications.

The first would improve crosswalks, striping and signage at Chestnut and Martin Luther King Jr. streets. The second would improve intersections, signage and crosswalks on Texas 95 from north of Pine Street to south of Emile Street.

Officials said the projects would cost $1.2 million total, with an approved grant covering 80% and the city responsible for about $240,000.

Casey Tew, 31, was sentenced in the 21st District Court to two years in state jail on four counts of unlawful disclosure of intimate visual material, a state jail felony. He also received five years of probation through the Community Supervision and Corrections Department.

According to county records, Tew disclosed visual material of the victim exposed and engaging in sexual conduct in September 2024.

Records said some of the material, intended harm or embarrass the victim, was posted to social media.

Tew was arrested the same month and posted a $250,000 bond a few days later. He was indicted in November 2024.

The downtown business began with a “quiet opening” May 22, allowing staff to test operations and gather customer feedback before doors fully open in June. Managing partner Jose Salazar said the phased schedule is designed to help the business refine its menu and customer experience while reconnecting with the Elgin community.

“We’re kind of just testing the waters out here,” Salazar said. “We want to really get that feedback from all the guests and the community to see what we’re missing and how we can improve their experience.”

During the four-week soft opening period, the business plans to rotate menus weekly while testing concepts like Tex-Mex, bar food and appetizers. Salazar said the goal is to figure out which offerings resonate most with customers before finalizing a permanent menu.

“We’re going to have a customer box up front where they can leave us a note to say what they loved and what they didn’t love,” Salazar said. “We want to see what Elgin really likes.”

Salazar recently became managing partner alongside existing owners Cody and Stacey Mauck, who remain involved behind the scenes. He said he and his wife, Magdalena, plan to take a more hands-on role in daily operations.

The restaurant previously relied on food trucks for dining service, but Salazar said feedback showed many customers wanted a more traditional restaurant experience.

“What we’re doing is we’re bringing a different concept in … we’re actually adding servers, hostesses and bartenders,” Salazar said. “This is going to be more of a restaurant bar and grill.”

According to Salazar, the venue will continue hosting live bands and karaoke nights while working to create a more family-oriented atmosphere.

“We want this to be where you come out with your family and you enjoy a nice dinner at a good quality price,” he said. “We want to have a huge impact on the community.”

Millie’s plans to gradually expand operating days and hours during the reopening period and eventually add lunch service.

Jessica Jaimes was appointed to the position at the May 19 meeting following the resignation of Councilwoman Joy Casnovsky. Jaimes and fellow applicant Rick Harden each presented their qualifications to council, which voted by majority to select the new representative.

Casnovsky’s resignation letter, read aloud by Mayor Theresa McShan, cited her family’s relocation outside Elgin.

“It has been a true honor to represent the residents of Ward 1 since 2022 and work alongside you to address our city’s needs,” Casnovsky wrote.

Under the Elgin Home Rule Charter, when a council vacancy occurs more than 90 days before the next regular election, the dais appoints a replacement rather than calling a special election.

The city plans to hold a special election in November to allow Ward 1 voters to permanently fill the seat. Candidate filing deadlines will be announced once the election date is formally set, according to the city.

— Chief Bob Prendergast honors and remembrance ceremonies.

Three-volley salute, taps played by Bastrop vets

BASTROP — The Bastrop County Veterans Honor Guard (BCVHG) drew a crowd May 22 and paid respects to fallen service members with a special Memorial Day ceremony.

The honors, held at Silver Pines Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, featured a three-volley salute using M1 Garands and the playing of taps. Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris said the holiday carries weight beyond the long weekend.

“It is a time for memory, time for honor and a time for paying homage,” Harris said.

The BCVHG is a volunteer organization made up of veterans from multiple U.S. military branches, certified by the Department of War to provide military honors for veterans and their families in Bastrop County and surrounding areas.

The three-volley salute traces its roots to Civil War battlefield traditions, according to officials, when opposing armies temporarily paused fighting to recover fallen soldiers and the wounded.

“Memorial Day is for the veterans that didn’t come home,” Chief Bob Prendergast said. “We’re here for them.”

Commander John Hobbs said the group is dedicated to continuing its service to the community through military funeral

“We conduct the most solemn ceremony that I can imagine,” Hobbs said.

The organization relies on volunteers, donations and community support to carry out its mission. Hobbs said the honor guard is actively recruiting veterans willing to commit to serving with the group.

“To give back to the community is paramount,” Hobbs said. “We all served, but we’re not done serving.”

Mayor Theresa McShan was reelected with 459 votes cast in Bastrop and Travis counties, Roland Silva won the Ward 2 seat with 129 votes and Agatha Mayfield claimed Ward 3 with 102 votes. Brenda Pina was elected to represent Ward 4 unopposed.

“The certification of our election results reflects the will of Elgin’s voters, and I’m proud of the city’s commitment to an open and transparent process,” City Manager Robert Eads said in a statement. “We congratulate each of the newly elected officials and look forward to the work ahead on behalf of our community.”

No candidates filed to run for the Ward 1 seat held by Joy Casnovsky, whose term ends this month.

According to the Elgin Home Rule Charter, when a council vacancy occurs more than 90 days before the next regular election, the dais appoints a replacement rather than calling a special election.

The council will also select two new representatives for the Elgin Economic Development Corporation board, following the departure of council members Chuck Swain and Sue Brasher.

“Even if we’re not feeding people with just food, we’re feeding them with hope, we’re feeding them with healing.”

— Doreen Hunter, Thrive founder

A new partnership between two Elgin organizations is putting food on tables and connecting families in need with community support options.

Thrive Open Kitchen, a Thrive After Domestic Violence and Elgin Open Door Missions collaboration, held its first meal kit distribution May 16. The event provided a week’s worth of fresh ingredients to 10 local families facing food insecurity, with monthly distributions planned for the third Saturday of each month at 108 Depot St. in downtown Elgin.

“Thrive Open Kitchen is about neighbors helping neighbors,” said Thrive founder Doreen Hunter. “We are grateful to partner with Elgin Open Door Missions, whose deep connection to the Elgin community will help ensure more families know about the program and can access fresh food.”

Hunter said the idea grew from years of advocacy work with domestic violence survivors, during which she often helped struggling families by buying groceries, babysitting or providing emergency support through micro grants.

“A lot of the things I see — besides trying to escape the actual domestic violence that these families are in — is they have other concerns,” she said. “And one of them is food insecurity.”

Elgin Open Door Missions, a local church and food pantry led by Sister Irene Marapao, is serving as the distribution site.

The partnership helps expand the church’s reach, according to Marapao.

“If you come in and say, ‘I’m hungry,’ we’re going to feed you,” she said. “It doesn’t matter who you are. We have to help each other. If we’re a self-sufficient community, then we’re an example to others.”

Both Hunter and Marapao said community support will be crucial to expand the program beyond its initial 10 families. The initiative is built to grow as more volunteers, sponsors and local farm partners get involved.

Thrive Open Kitchen’s long-term goal, according to Hunter, is to create a dedicated kitchen and community space that could serve meals and support other nonprofit efforts.

Residents in Elgin, Manor, Paige, Littig, Kimbro, McDade, Webberville, Sayersville, Coupland, Bastrop and Giddings are all eligible to register for assistance.

“Even if we’re not feeding people with just food, we’re feeding them with hope, we’re feeding them with healing,” Hunter said.

Registration details and more information is available at thriveafterdv.com.

The deal with water technology company VVater brings a new chemical-free treatment process to Bastrop. The Austin-based company’s system looks to ensure the city can scale with modern demand and is prepared for the continued development officials say is unavoidable.

“As a city, we have a responsibility to make sure our water infrastructure is ready for the growth that’s coming,” Mayor Ishmael Harris said in a statement. “Working with VVater gives us an opportunity to explore new technology and be at the forefront of efforts aimed at improving how we efficiently treat and reuse water for our community.”

VVater uses an electricity- based treatment process rather than traditional chemical, filter and membrane systems, according to officials. The process is designed to remove contaminants like synthetic “forever chemicals” and microplastics, and reduce energy and operational costs.

“Legacy systems … were built for a different era, and they’re showing their age,” VVater CEO Kevin Gast said.

The company claims its technology can reduce costs by 40%, operating expenses by 80% and energy consumption by 40%. Officials said it has treated more than 4.3 billion gallons of water globally in municipal, industrial and commercial sectors. “The U.S. water crisis has stopped being a future problem,” Gast said. “It’s happening now, and cities are waking up to the fact that legacy treatment wasn’t built for what’s coming.”

A recent partnership with Nestle has also helped build confidence among cities exploring the technology, according to Gast, and Bastrop could serve as a model for other municipalities with water management concerns.

“Nestle runs on VVater to meet stringent quality standards at a pace few other operators can match,” Gast said. “In five years, Bastrop is the model. It’s the city that other municipalities point to and say, ‘That’s how you build for growth.’”

Elgin Independent School District Superintendent Jana Rueter announced plans to retire Dec. 31 after 34 years in public education.

Her last day serving as superintendent will be June 30, after which she will transition into the role of superintendent emeritus through the end of the year. Rueter, who has led the district since July 2022, credited Elgin ISD staff, administrators and community members for supporting student success.

“After a deeply fulfilling tenure as superintendent, I am announcing my retirement with an overflowing heart of gratitude and immense pride in all that this remarkable district has accomplished together,” Rueter said in a statement.

Board President Byron Mitchell praised Rueter’s leadership and said the district benefited from her focus on collaboration and student opportunity during her time.

“Dr. Rueter has been a tireless visionary for Elgin ISD,” Mitchell said. “Along with the board, Dr. Rueter has focused Elgin ISD and its stakeholders on identifying and developing the strengths and gifts of every child.”

During the past four years with Rueter at the helm, the district passed a $375 million bond package. The move will fund projects including Legacy Oak Middle School, scheduled to open next year, and expansions for athletics and technical education facilities after her departure.

According to the district, Elgin ISD has grown by about 1,200 students and earned recognition as a Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase District under Rueter.

Aden Galindo faces a third-degree felony smuggling charge and a state-jail felony charge of unlawful transfer of a firearm to a person under 18 in the 335th District Court. He was arrested in October and posted a $150,000 bond Nov. 7 under the condition he not possess or attempt to possess a firearm, county records show.

Galindo and another suspect were both arrested Oct. 16 by Elgin police, with assistance from the Travis County Sheriff’s Office and Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team. Reports said investigators seized 14 firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition and more than $4,000 in cash.

Officials noted the suspects may have supplied a firearm to Jayden Sherrod, 17. Sherrod is currently being held in the Bastrop County Jail on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of Jowel Wallace A pretrial hearing for Sherrod is set for June 8 in the 21st District Court.

Responding officers found Wallace dead inside a residence on Jefferson Cove, along with a spent .40-caliber Glock casing in a nearby closet.

Elgin police initially described the shooting as an isolated incident between acquaintances but said the arrests may indicate a broader investigation into illegal firearms trafficking.

According to an affidavit, a witness told investigators she observed a male argue with Wallace during a video call, point a gun at him and say he would shoot. She reported hearing the argument continue until a single gunshot rang out and the call went blank.

A suspect also told officers he was armed, pointed the gun at Wallace and pulled the trigger after Wallace moved toward him in an attempt to take the firearm, according to the affidavit.

City Council approved moving forward on a federal grant application May 5 to help advance planning for County Line Road Phase 3, a project Elgin officials say remains a top priority.

The resolution authorizes City Manager Robert Eads to seek services from Kimley-Horn Engineers for grant writing connected to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. According to officials, SS4A aims to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries through planning studies and infrastructure improvements.

Public Works Director Michael Gonzales said the grant could help advance planning for the section of County Line Road connecting to FM 1100, including pedestrian improvements like sidewalks.

“We are thinking about any funding opportunity … The number one question we got was 'When exactly are you going to start on Phase 3?'” Gonzales said, referencing a recent public engagement meeting at First Baptist Church. “We're thinking about Phase 3 just as much as any of our constituents.” 

The city scaled its proposal back from $40,000 to about $10,000 after determining it would be more competitive pursuing only the planning portion of the grant, rather than both planning and implementation.

“To make sure we're spending wisely, let's go after this $10,000 portion that we are most likely to get,” Eads said.

The city has also coordinated with the Texas Department of Transportation, which is pursuing funding for the corridor through the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization. Gonzales said the parallel efforts could strengthen the case for both. 

“Both of us working on it together should, in my mind, bring some gravity to the situation,” he said.

Elgin has once again earned accredited status as a 2026 nationally designated Main Street America city, the organization’s highest designation level.

Of 1,291 communities nationwide, only 838 achieved the designation, which recognizes long-term downtown revitalization and economic impact efforts. Elgin has participated in the Texas Main Street Program since 1990 and has maintained accredited status since 1999.

“This recognition reflects years of collaboration and commitment from our board, volunteers, city leadership, business owners and community partners,” Main Street Manager Kristina Alvarez said in a statement.

Since joining, more than $42 million has been reinvested into downtown Elgin through public and private investments, according to officials.

“We are proud to continue building on Elgin’s historic character,” Alvarez said.

City Manager Robert Eads called the designation a testament to what sustained, community- driven investment can accomplish over time “From restored storefronts to new businesses opening their doors, the results speak for themselves,” he said.

Community involvement plays a major role in the program’s success, according to the city, particularly through the annual Hogeye Festival. Serving as a primary fundraiser, the festival helps fund downtown grants, public art and revitalization efforts.

Main Street America reported that accredited programs nationwide generated $9.4 billion in local reinvestment in 2025, along with nearly 6,900 new businesses and more than 36,500 new jobs on average.

BASTROP — Bastrop recently hired its first business and community development manager, a newly created role focused on internal growth. 

The city and Bastrop Economic Development Corporation brought on Dr. Jill Strube to fill the position aimed at strengthening local businesses. Officials said Strube will build a local “economic gardening” strategy designed to help existing businesses bloom rather than recruiting outside industry.

“This is new to Bastrop,” Strube said. “A lot of what the EDC has been doing is more business recruitment, but one of the reasons they were interested in bringing me on board was the work I had done with the quality-of-life side of economic development.”

Strube brings more than 17 years of experience in grant and economic development, most recently serving as economic development director in Smithville. She said her work will center on workforce development, entrepreneurial support and expanding community resources, noting that businesses often choose locations based on livability as much as economic factors. 

“Businesses are looking to come stay in communities that they like to be in,” she said.

Among early initiatives is a program to guide new and expanding businesses through permitting, inspections and planning. A broader education program for small and startup businesses is expected to launch later this year.

“We just want to make sure that we're giving people the chance to really get at that dream and make that dream a reality,” Strube said.

Supporting small businesses is critical to maintaining economic stability, according to Strube, as larger industries take root in the region. 

She added addressing workforce needs and affordable housing will be key challenges moving forward. 

“I’m trying to help stabilize the community so that where there are pockets of neighborhoods that are struggling, we can get them resources they need to thrive,” Strube said. “We want to continue to stabilize the community so that there’s not a lot of displacement with all the growth.” 

Rotting from untreated wood, used in both the original construction and later repairs, has caused the structure to lean about 4 degrees, according to officials. Though the gazebo is not currently unsafe, it has deteriorated to the point where reconstruction is the better option. 

“At this time, the gazebo out front of the historic jail is in disrepair,” said Leon Scaife, a county purchasing agent. “It's not dangerous at this point, but it is to the point where it needs to be reconstructed.”

The county approved hiring preservation architecture firm Architexas for $9,600 to design and oversee the replacement, plus an additional $800 for Texas Historical Commission permits. The project will be paid for using hotel occupancy tax funds, according to commissioners.

The historical commission initially preferred removing the gazebo to restore the courthouse grounds to its old appearance, but agreed to allow reconstruction if the new structure closely resembles its original look.

“As long as we put it back to the earliest known photos … we can reconstruct that,” Scaife said. 

According to Architexas and project documents, the current 14-foot octagonal gazebo likely dates to 2009 and was modeled after a bandstand dedicated during the 1976 bicentennial celebration. 

The county also provided evidence of an earlier gazebo on the courthouse square dating from about 1935 to 1941.

The firm and county officials emphasized the importance of the structure to the community, noting weddings, veterans events and local gatherings as reasons for keeping the gazebo standing. 

Under the contract, Architexas will review historic documents, measure the existing structure and surrounding pathways, prepare construction documents and coordinate with the historic commission.

A ribbon cutting Thursday celebrated the debut of Dynamic Systems Inc., which will manufacture heating, ventilation, air conditioning and plumbing components for large companies in Central Texas, such as Taylor’s nearby Samsung Austin Semiconductor.

“We make buildings live and breathe,” said DSI division manager Matthew Taylor at the ceremony, which included local dignitaries including Mayor Russell Schmidt.

The mayor and other officials said the new business could herald a trend in which more industries are locating to the Blackland Prairie and specifically the small city between Elgin and Taylor, where a John Deere equipment testing facility recently opened.

During the event, Coupland DSI operations manager Adam Roche said the opening of the Coupland facility signaled a great day for the company and the community.

“It’s the beginning of a long-term partnership,” Roche said.

Taylor said the Coupland DSI location will focus on high-purity infrastructure for semiconductor and biopharmaceutical companies handling large volumes of gases and chemicals that require more resilient stainless-steel pipes and carriers.

Like many of its contractors, the company also has a clean room to work on its pipes and delivery systems.

“We’re talking about cleanliness on a microscopic level,” Taylor said. “The smallest of particles can affect the manufacturing processes.”

DSI opened in 1988 and remained privately owned until summer 2025, with an annual income over half a billion dollars, company officials said.

Nationwide, the company employs more than 3,000 people with 500 of them in Central Texas. About 50 workers, many from the area, initially will staff the Coupland location and more growth is anticipated in the next few years, officials said. Guests at the May 7 event included DSI executives, employees and their families; local officials such as state Rep. Caroline Harris Davila and Harold Glasscock, outreach coordinator for U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions; and Schmidt.

New $2.5M response center one of six statewide, will host Lost Pines Task Force

SMITHVILLE — Officials broke ground on a new Texas A&M Forest Service facility in Bastrop County last week, part of a statewide effort to expand wildfire response and forest management capabilities.

The Smithville location is the third of six planned facilities across Texas, funded through a capital investment approved by the system’s Board of Regents. Officials said the expanded space will allow for faster response times, better training and increased resources to support local communities as wildfire assistance requests continue to grow.

“This new building will be a long-term home for the forest service here and a clear signal that we’re here to stay,” said Jeff Savell, vice chancellor and dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences. “It’s a promise of being close to the people we serve.”

The facility will cost $2.5 million and include a 4,400-squaref oot si ngle - s tor y building with multiple equipment sheds. Construction is estimated to last through the remainder of the year, with the facility fully operational in 2027.

Officials said the new space will serve as the central hub for the Lost Pines Task Force, which handles emergency responses and wildfire readiness in the region.

“We now have the room to bring in additional resources, host larger training courses and respond more effectively when it matters most,” said Reilly Ruggiero, wildland urban interface coordinator.

The agency has operated in Bastrop County since the 1990s, relocating multiple times as staff and demand grew following wildfire seasons, including the devastating 2011 fires. Leaders selected the Schulze Tract in Smithville as a permanent home, citing its suitability to support operations.

“This area is no stranger to fire history,” said Brian Hurtuk, regional operations chief. “We’re excited to be putting our feet down in our permanent home here and having a stake in both the fire response as well as the forest management and getting ready for the fire and recovering after the fire.”

Al Davis, director of the Texas A&M Forest Service, emphasized the facility’s importance in strengthening emergency responses and local partnerships.

“People don’t get to do this because they want to be rich … they do this because they are self less, professional servants,” Davis said. “We don’t do it alone, we do it with a lot of partners.”

“People don’t get to do this because they want to be rich … they do this because they are selfless, professional servants.”

— Al Davis, Texas A&M Forest Service

Arthur Martinez will serve as the district’s next director of curriculum and instruction, while Randy Mathisen has been selected as the inaugural principal of Legacy Oak Middle School, slated to open in early 2027.

Officials said both bring proven leadership and strong ties to the community.

“Their reputations for building community and prioritizing student success will serve the district well for years to come,” Superintendent Jana Rueter said in a statement.

Martinez currently serves as the founding principal of Trinity Ranch Elementary School. Since joining the district in 2017, he has held several roles, including principal of Neidig Elementary School and assistant principal at Elgin High School.

Martinez also serves as an adjunct professor of education at Huston-Tillotson University.

“My years in EISD have been incredibly meaningful, and I’m excited to build on that experience to support academic success for all,” Martinez said.

Mathisen, who joined the district in 2018, will oversee the development of Legacy Oak after stepping away from his current role as principal of Elgin Intermediate. He has previously been an assistant principal and associate principal at Elgin High, and will be responsible for building school culture and staffing at the new campus, according to officials.

“I am incredibly excited to partner with our staff and families to cultivate an environment where every student is empowered to grow,” Mathisen said.

District officials said both leaders are positioned to guide new initiatives and expansion efforts as the district continues to grow.

That was apparent Thursday morning when the Texas Department of Public Safety unveiled its new mounted patrol unit facility at 12708 Pfluger Berkman Road, evoking memories of the Old West for some guests.

The event at the Mounted Patrol Unit Equine Facility also welcomed the horses and their human partners, including three DPS training academy graduates entering the Texas Highway Patrol MPU.

“The Texas Rangers … relied on this patrol as early as 1823.”

— DPS Maj. Tony Rodriguez “Horses have long been woven into the fabric of Texas law enforcement,” said DPS state equine coordinator Maj. Tony Rodriguez. “Their partnership with riders dates back to the Texas Rangers who relied on this patrol as early as 1823. That spirit of mobility, visibility and trust lives on in our land unit today.”

The mounted units are used by the highway patrol for specific law-enforcement tasks around the Capitol and along the Texas-Mexico border, law officers said.

The equine patrols use quarter horses for specialized border patrol duty because the mounts can travel difficult terrain while helping with tracking, surveillance and apprehensions.

The Capitol unit uses larger horses, such as Clydesdales, to patrol the Austin complex, providing security for about 60 state buildings and managing crowd control.

The horses are also used in ceremonies for fallen officers and on visits to schools, officials said.

The Austin Police Department also has a mounted patrol unit in Coupland but separate from DPS.

The new mounted patrol facility straddles Williamson and Travis counties and will also be used for training.

DPS Lt. Dustin Gilmore, also a state-equine coordinator, said the complex underwent a complete transformation from an older stable.

“This facility represents more than just buildings and improvements; it represents our future. It positions us to continue to grow and move forward as a more professional and capable mounted unit,” Gilmore said.

He also shared his congratulations with the graduating troopers.

“You are stepping into a program that is stronger than ever and we are proud to have you carry it forward,” the lieutenant said.

According to a release, the $3 million Coupland facility occupies 18 acres. The expenditure covers “the land, barn and renovations to the already existing stables.”

The facility includes:

• 20,000 square-footcovered riding arenas, along with stables, offices, a tack room and wash racks

• 48,600 square-foot outdoor riding and skills arena with steel and cedar fencing

• 148,715 square feet of secured paddock area, divided into 18 paddocks

• 165,500 square feet of open pasture Troopers said 21 horses are housed at the Coupland facility. Eight are assigned to the training unit, “while the remaining 13 horses are assigned to the Capitol mounted team,” the release stated.

In addition, seven horses are tasked for border operations in Brackettville, Eagle Pass and Dilley.

The 15-acre property at Texas 95 and Farm Street was originally planned for a 75-unit townhome development before being reclassified as part of a flood plain, halting the project. The city purchased the lot and, with the parks and recreation master plan calling for diversity in sporting options, began exploring the possibility of a golf course.

City Manager Carrillo-Trevino engaged the National Golf Foundation to conduct a feasibility study, which concluded the site has the characteristics needed for golf course development and that Bastrop can sustain a small par-3 course.

“Quality of life is a component that we really can’t measure in dollar bills, and we have to provide it for our community,” Councilwoman Cynthia Meyer said at the April 28 City Council meeting.

According to the city, estimated construction costs reach $3.5 million, with about $2 million more needed for facilities like a clubhouse or maintenance shed.

Carrillo-Trevino said the course could generate $800,000 in its second year of operation but would need additional revenue through sponsorships, grants and events to cover staffing and maintenance costs. Birthday parties, company events and food trucks could all support the course’s revenue stream.

Beyond recreation, she said the course would also serve as a detention pond to aid in flood prevention.

Nathan Crace, an award-winning golf course architect who worked with the foundation on the study, said the design would incorporate naturalized areas between holes to serve as wildlife habitats and would minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides. The course would be irrigated with treated wastewater rather than drinking water.

“We’re trying to make this golf course fun,” Crace said. “We want especially kids to get out there, have a good time, put a club in their hands, learn how to play golf and learn how to socialize a bit better.”

Crace said the course would be designed for families to play nine holes quickly, with an education component for children and beginners.

Carrillo-Trevino stressed the project is not finalized, saying she still intends to consult with the school district and potential partners before moving forward.

Mayor Ishmael Harris, who supported the project, acknowledged both community pushback and support.

“We have to be responsible,” Harris said. “If it increases the level of quality of life for our community we have to really try to make those projects work.”

The council asked Carrillo-Trevino to present an updated proposal at a July council meeting.

There will be more opportunities for public input as the project progresses, according to the city.

Voters across Bastrop County cast ballots May 2 on a lineup of local races, with countywide turnout reaching about 12%, according to unofficial results.

Of 18,253 registered local voters, 2,214 turned in general election tickets. The count represents a nearly 4% increase compared to the 2025 general election, which saw 4,084 ballots cast among a larger pool of 53,036 registered voters.

All results remain unofficial until canvassed.

ELGIN

The Elgin City Council dais will see several new faces, though not in the mayoral seat.

Incumbent Mayor Theresa McShan secured her reelection with 56% of the Bastrop County vote, receiving 416 tallies to challenger Stephanie Lippke’s 319.

Lippke did claim the majority of Travis County votes, 40 of the total 62, or 65%.

In the Ward 2 council race, Roland Silva won with 71% of the vote, defeating Wes Callais and incumbent Chuck Swain.

The Ward 3 seat was closer, as Agatha Christi Mayfield won with 53% over Al Rodriguez’s 46%. Rodriguez had held the position since 2022.

Brenda Gullikson Pina ran unopposed in Ward 4.

Elgin Independent School District trustee races produced clear outcomes. Byron Mitchell retained the District 1 seat with nearly 78% of the vote over Michael Clowdus, and Cheryl Reese took District 2 with 62%, ahead of Cherish White and Dennis Saint Ives.

BASTROP

With a landslide win, Ishmael Harris will remain Bastrop’s mayor. He recorded 477 votes to challenger Joseph Stanfield’s 87, or 84% of the total.

Kevin Plunkett was unopposed in the Place 3 City Council race.

A proposition regarding Bastrop County Water Control Improvement District No. 3 failed. Three of four votes were cast against a measure that would have canceled the district’s authority to issue $6.7 million in previously approved bonds for improvements in the Elm Ridge defined area.

SMITHVILLE

The contested Smithville City Council races showed narrow margins.

Wini Griffin won the Place 4 race against Mitchell Jameson with just under 53% of ballots. Dana Tovar defeated Cathy Meek to earn the Place 5 seat, taking about 57%.

Sharon Foerster will remain mayor after running unopposed.

MCDADE

McDade Independent School District’s Proposition A failed, as 60% of voters sided against the move.

The proposition would have funded $4.5 million in development for school buildings and improvements through a property tax increase.