Local historians detail Bastrop County legacy online

BASTROP — A new digital effort is bringing Bastrop County’s past center stage, detailing the work of area historians and its impact on Texas’ legacy.

Bastrop County Historical Commission’s interactive website — bastropcountyhistorical. gov — features a growing collection of historical narratives, oral storytelling and information about notable locations across the region. The county- funded project has been in development for about two years and replaces an older website that no longer met the needs of a growing county, according to commission Chairman Ken Kesselus.

“Historians all around the county have spent countless hours researching their passion projects to give you these experiences,” Kesselus said. “We invite you to explore our improved website and walk in the shoes of those who came before us.”

The site covers a spectrum of points and perspectives, including the county’s role as one of the earliest Anglo settlements in Mexican Texas. The landmark King’s Highway route and early communities that developed as the railroads took form reflect the county’s unique place in Texas history, according to Kesselus.

“That really does separate us,” he said. “Elgin, Bastrop, Smithville haven’t been urbanized to the extent that somebody came in and tore down some wonderful old buildings and built high-rises.”

The county also played a role in the early years of the Republic of Texas.

Bastrop was briefly considered as a potential site for the state capital in 1839 before Austin was ultimately chosen.

“We became kind of a staging area for the development of Austin,” Kesselus said. “We’ve been kind of a microcosm of Texas … most of everything that affected Texas history was played out here.”

Beyond major milestones, the website highlights how the arrival of railroads shaped the county’s communities.

Towns like Elgin and Smithville developed along the railroad lines, which Kesselus described as a defining factor in Bastrop County’s growth.

“The coming of the railroads was extraordinarily important, in fact, all of the communities in Bastrop, except for Cedar Creek, lie on the railroad,” he said. “That’s also something that ties us all together.”

Kesselus said a major goal of the update is to promote historical tourism by encouraging visitors to explore museums, historic sites and state parks across the county.

Future plans include expanded self-guided tours that could allow visitors to scan QR codes at historic locations to learn more.

“We hope to create a do-it-yourself tour of various things,” he said.

Commission members said the project has largely evolved into a community effort, bringing together historians, volunteers and residents who share a passion for local history.

“Volunteers have been gathering information for decades,” Kesselus said. “This redesign project focuses on organizing that data and continuing research to tell all the stories of Bastrop County.”

Alongside preservation, Kesselus said the project is built to help residents — especially newcomers and younger generations — better understand the community they live in. Ultimately, he said he wants the project to strengthen community identity as the county continues to grow.

“If you look back to the past and see what it took to get us where we are, it helps you connect past, present and future,” he said. “We can learn from the goods and the bads of the past.”

BASTROP — A Bastrop man faces multiple felony charges after allegedly firing a rifle in a Home Depot parking lot last week, prompting reports of an active shooter.

Bastrop Police Department officers responded about 3:49 p.m. March 25 to the 100 block of Hunters Crossing Boulevard after receiving reports of an active shooter. Police said the suspect, Kobe Lee Mosser, 25, drove into the Home Depot parking lot and indiscriminately fired multiple rounds from an AR-15-style rifle.

Bastrop police, along with deputies from the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office, detained Mosser without incident, according to officials. Authorities reported no injuries, though property damage was confirmed.

Officials said there are no additional suspects and no ongoing threat to the public.

Mosser was taken into custody and booked into the Bastrop County Jail. He faces seven counts of aggravated assault and one count of child endangerment.

Bond information was not available as of press time.

Records show Mosser has prior misdemeanor charges, including driving while intoxicated in Montgomery County in 2020, as well as 2022 DWI and 2023 assault charges out of Bastrop County.

The incident remains under investigation.

City Manager Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino told council March 24 upgrading Wastewater Treatment Plant No. 3 would allow treated discharge to be reused for irrigation or commercial purposes. The move would also bring the facility into compliance with new Texas Commission on Environmental Quality phosphate limits.

“It is a smart approach to keep the drinking water to the residents and keep treated effluent for industry,” Carrillo-Trevino said. “If I can treat wastewater and put it back to use, we begin to rely less on the aquifer and put less strain on the water supply.”

The proposed system from Austin-based company Vvater uses a Faraday reactor, which applies low electric pulses to disinfect water without filters or membranes. Officials said the process eliminates microorganisms at the cellular level, producing water that can be safely reused.

Carrillo-Trevino said the system would cost about $5 million, funded through a combination of water or wastewater funds and an increased bond issuance tied to the plant’s expansion. She estimated traditional upgrades to meet discharge standards would cost between $1.8 million and $2.7 million, but without improvements the plant risks becoming obsolete.

Mayor Ishmael Harris, who has more than two decades of experience in the wastewater industry, stressed the importance of staff training.

“Ideally what I would like is our staff to be able to learn the equipment, so we don’t have to rely on (Vvater),” he said.

Harris cited a need for redundancy in order to keep any service interruptions and downtime to a minimum.

“Texas has a different effect on equipment. I’ve seen it for years and years. We definitely need to make sure this product is going to withstand,” Harris said.

Vvater’s system operates without harsh chemicals, membranes, filters, or biological media, eliminating the common sources of waste and maintenance in conventional treatment.

Vvater CEO Kevin Gast said technologies using membranes have experienced the effects Harris mentioned, but his process does not have membranes or filters that can rust, clog or deteriorate.

Council directed staff to begin negotiations with Vvater to upgrade the plant using the new technology.

The special-called session March 23 came after Police Chief David Repka filed a complaint against the mayor for allegedly misusing his name in a recent search through city records. The meeting was held as a public hearing at the request of Foerster, though much of the original complaint was dismissed prior to Monday’s session and not shared.

The council could have held the meeting behind closed doors in executive session, according to Thomas Gwosdz, the city’s legal counsel.

“(Foerster) would like this (meeting) to occur in the public so that the community is aware of what the allegation is and what her response is,” said Foerster’s attorney Caroline McClimon.

Officials said Repka filed the complaint after Foerster used his name and the word “police” while searching city documents. Foerster cited human error, as she tried to find the correct prompt needed for her search.

“The only part of the complaint that remains is the question of whether or not the mayor failed to meet her duty under the public information act to produce records that were responsive to (Repka’s) request,” Gwosdz said.

Councilwoman Cathy Meek suggested Smithville establish a technological protocol to avoid similar issues.

“It seems like (Foerster) did what she thought at the time was the reasonable method of finding these documents, but … there doesn’t seem to be a standard that was followed and there was no oversight for her to do anything different than what she did,” Meek said.

While Councilman Brandon Dunham added there were parts of the complaint, including the “content of the (mayor’s) messages,” that he did not like, he said he could not “in good conscience say that (the search) was negligent.”

The council agreed and determined they would not move forward with any more action against the mayor.

“The culture we cultivate is the culture we accept, and we all need to get better at everything we do,” Councilman Mitchell Jameson said.

All city council meetings can be attended in person at City Hall, 317 Main St., or viewed online at ci.smithville.tx.us.

The U.S. Supreme Court last week declined to hear an appeal from Texas death row inmate Rodney Reed, leaving intact the previous state court ruling on a 1996 Bastrop County murder case.

The lower ruling denied Reed’s request for additional DNA testing in the killing of Stacey Stites 30 years ago.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor, joined by justices Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, dissented from the appeal decision March 23. They said the case should have been sent back for further review after learning the belt used to kill Stites was not tested.

“It is inexplicable why the Bastrop County District Attorney’s office refused to allow DNA testing of the belt that was used to kill Stites, despite the very substantial possibility that such testing could exculpate Reed and identify the real killer,” Sotomayor wrote.

Reed was convicted in 1998 and sentenced to death for the murder of 19-year-old Stites, who was strangled with a belt while on her way to work in Bastrop.

Prosecutors have continued to support the conviction and oppose testing of the belt. State courts deny revisiting the murder weapon, arguing it was contaminated after trial and does not pass Texas’ post-conviction DNA testing law.

Sotomayor pushed back on the outcome March 23, saying the court’s decision will lead to unanswered questions.

“The state will likely execute Reed without the world ever knowing whether Reed’s or Fennell’s DNA is on the murder weapon, even though a simple DNA test could reveal that information,” she wrote. “I respectfully dissent.”

Throughout the years, Reed has denied the crime and maintains he and Stites were in a consensual relationship.

He has also alleged Stites’ fiance at the time, former Bastrop County police officer Jimmy Fennell, was responsible for the killing.

Fennell has denied such claims.

City Council March 17 heard Elgin’s financial audit boast stronger revenues and fewer fiscal issues in a report from Mike Brooks of BrooksWaston & Co. The city earned the best possible review of its financial statements while also cutting the number of audit findings in half compared to last year, according to the report.

“Overall, the audit went much better this year, and we were able to get it issued much sooner,” Brooks said. “It’s been quite some time since the city was able to get the information to us prior to March, and the staff here did a great job of getting it to us.” Officials said the city is still awaiting results from the state’s investigation into alleged misappropriations of public funds.

THE NUMBERS

The audit found the city’s assets exceeded its debts by nearly $70 million for the year ending Sept. 30, 2025.

Elgin recorded an overall increase of about $11 million in its financial position during the fiscal year, according to Brooks. City revenue totaled $22.2 million, an increase of roughly $3.4 million from the year before.

Much of the growth came from higher property values, increased service fees and additional grants, according to the report.

Governmental expenses totaled $19 million and was reflected by spending across major service areas, including public safety, public works, general government and parks and recreation.

The city ended the year with about $8.7 million in total reserves, including roughly $2.8 million that could be used for emergencies. Though officials said they will continue to push for more.

“We have two months in reserve, and I’d like to get us to the point where we have at least six months,” City Manager Robert Eads said. “I’m proud of our Interim Finance Director Pamela Sanders and her team, and I anticipate working with them to build a strong executive financial team to move us where we need to be.”

The city’s reserve level currently sits at about 17%, which is below the city’s policy target of 25%, a figure Brooks said is “not in a terrible position.”

RECOMMENDATIONS

City officials said some findings are expected to continue into future audits due to staffing limitations, including a technical issue related to auditors preparing the annual report.

“We will always have the internal control finding,” Sanders said. “Until we have staffing at adequate levels with competent staff, we do not have the means to prepare that internally.”

Other recommendations focused on improving oversight of pooled cash accounts, meeting reporting requirements under state investment rules and updating purchasing policies to reflect a recent change in state law.

Eads said the city has already begun addressing several of those issues.

“There’s a little bit more heavy lifting to go, but we’re on the right path that is positive,” Eads said.

According to Eads, the city is now reconciling financial statements on a monthly basis and working to strengthen reserves while continuing to correct past financial issues.

“We have to fix the foundation first and then we’re going to be there as we continue to go forward,” he said.

RANGERS REVIEW

The audit comes as the city remains under investigation by the Texas Rangers following a state probe into alleged violations.

Greg Abbott announced Oct. 30 the state would launch a deeper investigation into the city’s finances.

The investigation remains active, and it is unclear how long it will remain ongoing, according to officials.

Elgin’s full audit report can be found at elgintexas. gov.

Water drops called to contain overnight flames as ‘unseasonably hot’ temps extend burn ban

BASTROP — A wildfire that began Sunday night in Bastrop State Park burned through 46 acres and was 85% contained as of Monday afternoon with state air backup, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Officials said the Spring Pine Fire sparked near southeast Texas 21 and South Shore Road March 22 and has remained within Bastrop State Park property without any reported injuries or structural damage. Crews established a bulldozer line around the fire but cautioned that containment does not mean the blaze is fully extinguished.

“Having the line around it does not mean that it’s fully out. You still have to put hands on everything,” Assistant Chief Mark Wobus of Bastrop/ Travis County Emergency Services District No. 1 said.

Dozers worked through the night to contain the burn and allow engines to patrol along the fire’s edge. Crews checked nearby neighborhoods for any potential problems caused by embers blown over from the main fire.

Wobus said fire response is adjusted based on ground conditions, including weather and fire behavior, with crews scaling resources as needed or remaining on standby.

“My guess is that resources will maintain on this fire at least for the next several days, just simply because of where it’s at and the potential that it has,” Wobus said.

Officials said a helicopter from Texas Park and Wildlife conducted water drops throughout the day Monday on the most active areas of the fire. Mandatory evacuations issued Sunday night for the cabins in the state park and the Pines at Bastrop RV park have since been lifted.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, officials said.

Amidst the scene, Bastrop County commissioners voted Monday morning to extend the countywide burn ban through April 13.

Hillary Long with the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management said the Keetch-Byram Drought Index average was 593 as of Sunday, with fire danger rating expected to remain moderate to high with “unseasonably hot temperatures” and no rain in the forecast.

“With this information, the fire chiefs unanimously support extending the burn ban,” Long told commissioners.

The order, signed by Judge Gregory Klaus, prohibits outdoor burning in unincorporated areas of the county.

Police Chief Vicky Steffanic presented the report to City Council during its March 10 meeting. The report, required by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, includes all traffic stops that resulted in a citation, warning or arrest.

Bastrop officers made 6,882 contacts last year. Steffanic said race or ethnicity was unknown in almost all of those stops.

“The race or ethnicity was not known for 99.8% of our stops,” Steffanic said. “(The remaining percentage) is attributed to knowing somebody has a warrant and they’ll know the race prior to the stop.”

According to the report, men were stopped nearly twice as often as women. Highway stops accounted for 4,375 of the total.

White drivers accounted for 3,770 contacts, followed by 2,145 Hispanic drivers, 712 Black, 162 Asian and 93 Native American.

About 66% of those stopped were not residents of the Bastrop 78602 ZIP code.

Officers conducted 191 searches during traffic stops, with 86% resulting in the discovery of contraband. Of the 165 discoveries, 135 involved drug possession, reports said.

Bastrop police made 136 arrests, including 76 for outstanding warrants.

The report also showed differences in how stops concluded. White drivers received warnings in around 71% of stops, compared with about 66% for Black drivers and 59% for Hispanic drivers.

In addition to receiving the report, council approved Steffanic’s request to apply for several grants, including a $20,000 Department of Homeland Security grant for threat assessment and risk intelligence software, and a grant from Vested Interest in K9s Inc. for a ballistic vest for a police K9.

The Elgin Chamber of Commerce will give residents a chance to hear from local office hopefuls in the May election during a candidate forum next week.

The forum April 1 runs from 6-8 p.m. at the Elgin ISD Administration Auditorium, 1002 N. Avenue C. Organizers said the free event is designed to encourage local election participation and provide a neutral setting where voters can learn about their potential school board and municipal representatives.

“Local elections shape our school, infrastructure and daily life. This is a chance for voters to hear directly from candidates in one place,” Chamber President Heather Bloom said. “Not everyone has access to the candidates otherwise … we want voters to feel informed and engaged.”

According to Bloom, the evening will be structured as more of a conference than typical debate. Candidates will answer prepared questions intended to address current community issues, shared with them one week prior.

The chamber invited all candidates who filed for the races and is still confirming participation as of press time.

“We will be choosing questions that are not intended to be onesided,” Bloom said. “They’re going to be fair — they’re going to be informative.”

In Elgin, the mayoral and four City Council seats will be on the May 2 ballot, as well as two Elgin Independent School District trustee positions. Each ward is represented by two council members, though only one seat per ward is up for election this year.

Incumbent mayor Theresa McShan has filed for reelection and will face challenger Stephanie Lippke.

In Ward 1, incumbent Joy Casnovsky is not seeking reelection and no candidates filed for the seat.

Ward 2 incumbent Charles “Chuck” Swain is running for another term against challengers Wes Callais and Roland Silva.

Ward 3 council member Al Rodriguez will face Agatha Christi Mayfield.

Mayor Pro Tem Sue Brashar is not seeking another term for the Ward 4 seat. Brenda Gulliksor Pina is the only candidate who filed for the position.

Elgin ISD Board President and District 1 Trustee Bryon Mitchell will face Michael Clowdus, while District 2 Trustee Cheryl Reese is challenged by Cherish White and Dennis Saint Ives.

Bloom said the forum is meant to encourage residents to take part in the local election process, which typically has low voter turnout. Last year, roughly 8% of registered voters participated in the general election, according to unofficial Bastrop County Elections records.

“We encourage everyone in the community to attend, learn about the candidates and be part of that process,” she said. “I hope the community feels informed and engaged.”

Early voting for the May 2 general election runs April 20-28. Election day polling locations will be open across Bastrop County from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Dr. Rajeev Gupta, Bastrop’s city representative to the advisory board, gave City Council a rundown of some of the board’s accomplishments.

“The future of Bastrop County health won’t be left to chance,” Gupta said. “Instead of waiting to see what the future holds, the board and the public health department are stepping up to lead with purpose, building a resilient and healthy county from the ground up.”

Initiatives included creating a bilingual monthly newsletter and online mental health platform providing free assessments and information.

Members completed a quarterly disease condition report based on countywide data, infectious disease communication strategy developed for outbreaks, and transition plan for moving clinical health services to Bastrop County. The board also secured $2.7 million in grant funds to support housing, a health collaborative and a healthcare workforce program.

“We’re not merely reacting to threats but proactively preventing them, preparing for the unexpected and protecting the well-being of every resident of Bastrop County,” Gupta said.

SMITHVILLE — Smithville leaders last week planned two meetings to discuss grievances filed against Mayor Sharon Foerster and potential upgrades for the wastewater treatment plant, though dates have not been set.

City Council agreed March 9 to call a special meeting to address a complaint against Foerster accusing her of violating the city’s ethics policy. Council members said they will review the accusation and decide whether to pursue further action or dismiss the claim.

Though the mayor’s hearing must be held as part of a public meeting, according to officials, it does not need to be open to community members. The council decided to hold the discussion during executive session at a future date.

The meeting will be separate from a public hearing with Energy Systems Group (ESG) representatives, set to review the wastewater treatment facility’s expansion before a decision is made on phase two of the project.

The council heard from ESG Development Leader Jim Johnston during last week’s meeting. He said conceptual design work for the plant is complete and addresses the shortfall in its current capacity.

“It needs to be able to meet the city’s needs,” Johnston said.

Johnston presented ESG’s plan to match future growth while also providing citywide benefits. Financial obligations were covered, including how the city could increase revenue by selling sludge from the facility.

In response to community concerns, Johnston said he would provide answers for any questions in the public forum. “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” said resident Haley Nunn, who also works in the water and wastewater industry.

The public hearing may not be held until next month, officials said.

All Smithville City Council meetings can be attended in person at City Hall, 317 Main St., or streamed online at ci.smithville.tx.us/189/ City-Council.

Council members March 9 asked City Manager Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino to reach out to Elgin and Smithville officials. The city looks to discuss developing their own regional economic collaborative.

“We should be working in lockstep. Working on our strengths, supporting our weaknesses and working in collaboration,” Carrillo-Trevino said.

The city manager added it can get difficult when developers are looking at Bastrop County as a potential home for multiple new sites. She said there is typically one city that can serve any particular company best, but the other cities can still benefit.

The original concept for a countywide partnership would have created a new agency to run the initiative. It would not be subject to open meeting acts and would potentially mix public and private funds, according to officials.

After meeting with city representatives, the county agreed to create a strategic plan for consideration before any additional steps were taken. But while city leaders were waiting on the plan to be developed, a website was launched calling for investors, implying the cities had already reached an agreement.

This premature launch of the corporation before the Bastrop had agreed to participate caused the EDC to vote to suspend support for the initiative until the issue was cleared up, and the council followed suit.

“I firmly believe that it is still a good idea to create a strategic plan, however I would like the council to consider that the plan be worked on by the three cities,” said EDC Board Member and Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris. “There’s a need to not only protect our cities but protect the region and how its developed, and who benefits from it.”

Smith served in several leadership roles representing Bastrop and Lee counties, including board president from September 2021 through December 2022, and chaired multiple committees focused on groundwater management and district operations.

Smith’s resignation took effect Feb. 9, according to the district.

“Sheril has been fervently committed to achieving the district’s mission of conservation and stewardship of its groundwater in a fair and equitable manner,” Board President Nicholas Textor said in a statement. Officials also said Smith helped lead the effort to hire and train the district’s education and outreach coordinator and worked to strengthen administrative protocols, rules and regulations for the district.

“She is deeply committed to the people and communities of Lee and Bastrop counties,” Lee County Judge Frank Malinak III said in a statement.

The LPGCD aims to manage, conserve and protect local groundwater resources.

The memorandum of understanding, signed March 13 at The Boring Bodega — part of Elon Musk’s Bastrop-based footprint — by Judge Gregory Klaus and ZRIA Director Petr Kubíček, creates a framework for international business partnerships. Officials said the move aims to boost economic development through entrepreneurial and educational exchanges, as well as innovation in sectors like aerospace, manufacturing and technology.

“Generations of Czech Texans help shape communities across our state, bringing with them a spirit of hard work, craftsmanship and resilience,” said Bastrop Economic Development Corporation’s Dori Kelley. “We are proud to build on that legacy through this new relationship between Bastrop County and the Zlín Region.”

The agreement is nonbinding and designed for international business growth without financial obligation from either party, according to the county.

A delegation of officials from the Czech Republic, including Zlín Region Gov. Radim Holiš, attended the ceremony alongside Boring Company president David Buss and several local, state and federal representatives.

“What we’re trying to do here — what was just farmland a few years ago — is really create an innovation hub and bring some of the best talent and partners from around the world out here,” Buss said. “We’re excited to see an international presence.”

Kubíček said the partnership grew from discussions about economic development and shared strengths between the two regions. Bastrop County has experienced a major boom for several industries in recent years, officials said, from Musk’s companies breaking ground to film studios taking root.

“I see Texas as a special place with a special kind of energy,” Kubíček said. “I see people who think big, move fast and open to new ideas.”

Kubíček described the Zlín Region as an industrial area in the southeastern part of the Czech Republic that mirrors the growth visible locally. “We focus on aerospace, defense, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, but also on the creative and film industry,” Kubíček said. “That’s why we’re here … not only to sign but to start working on that.”

During the ceremony, officials presented a gift to the Czech delegation. A loblolly pine tree, representing the Lost Pines Forest, will be planted at the Bastrop County Community Center as a symbol of the new partnership.

“Just as a tree begins with a small seed and grows stronger over time, we hope this partnership will continue to grow, creating new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs and future generations in both of our regions,” Kelley said.

“What we’re trying to do here — what was just farmland a few years ago — is really create an innovation hub and bring some of the best talent and partners from around the world out here.”

— David Buss, The Boring Company

Celtic traditions took center stage Saturday as one of Elgin’s newer downtown destinations held its inaugural St. Patrick’s Festival after relocating to the city last year.

The free gathering March 14, presented by Things Celtic, brought together specialty bands, dancers and food to welcome visitors and enjoy Irish and the broader Celtic culture. Owners Nikki Richardson and Bob Rafferty said the festival was designed as both a cultural celebration and way to introduce more people to the business and surrounding downtown area.

“One of the big hopes is to draw people into Elgin off U.S. 290,” Richardson said. “We’ve had a shop in Austin for close to 20 years, so a lot of our loyal customers are there … we’re hoping some of them come out here.”

The festival brought a wide range of traditional acts to the pop-up stage outside Things Celtic, 34 N. Avenue C, including folk, country and Celtic punk. Step dancers performed as attendees enjoyed Irish red ale brewed specifically for the event.

Organizers said the gathering also supported a local cause, as festivalgoers donated more than 160 pounds of food for Elgin Community Cupboard. The collected items will help support residents in need across the Elgin area.

“We’ve always had a deep interest and focus on Celtic community and culture,” Rafferty said. “This gives us an opportunity to share that love with everybody else.”

Things Celtic traces its roots back nearly three decades. The business began importing products from Ireland in 1997 and opened its first storefront in Austin in 1999. Richardson and Rafferty took ownership in early 2025 and moved the store to Elgin, dubbing it the “Emerald of Elgin.”

The two owners said support from the local community has been strong since opening their doors, something they credited with making the festival possible.

“You hear about small town Texas, but man, Elgin brought it,” Richardson said. “Having the people that have stepped up has been remarkable.”

If the event continues to draw interest, the owners said they hope the celebration will become an annual tradition within the community. The pair looks to build an outdoor stage at the shop and plans to host additional live shows throughout the year.

The proposal stemmed from Senate Bill 11, approved last year, which required every school board in the state to hold a recorded vote on the policy by March 1. During the school board’s Feb. 17 meeting, Chief Academic Officer Jennifer Eberly recommended the board decline adopting the resolution, as Bastrop ISD already has “well-established protections for students and staff.”

“Bastrop ISD respects and honors the rich religious heritage of our nation and community, which is reflected in the policies the district has adopted to protect the religious freedom of its students and staff,” Eberly said.

According to the bill, participation in the prayer period would be voluntary, and parents must opt for their child to attend by signing a consent form. The period also could not interfere with instruction time.

Prior to the vote, public speakers urged the board to vote no. Ellen Tanner, a parent of a ninth grader at Colorado River Collegiate Academy said the policy would change the school environment.

“The bill appears to be an attempt to solve a nonexistent prayer rights problem,” Tanner said. “Seeing Christianity embraced and reflected in this community is not an issue for Christians living in Bastrop.”

Student Bailey Calderon, a junior who said she is Catholic, also voiced opposition to the board.

“Even with participation technically optional, the moment a school schedules a daily religious period, it sends a message about what is normal,” Calderon said. “It creates social pressure, it creates division and it risks making students who don’t share that religion feel like outsiders.”

The board’s vote means Bastrop ISD will not implement a daily prayer or religious text reading period.

Dominique Tamez was arrested Feb. 25 after stealing or forging around $1.6 million in checks, according to the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office. The office had been working on the case with the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service since July 2023, following reports of altered checks.

Reports stated checks never reached their intended destinations and were intercepted or altered before being deposited through mobile banking into accounts at Houston area banks.

The Sheriff’s Office contacted the Postal Inspection Service once reports increased and a federal review was initiated. An investigation on the Smithville Post Office revealed evidence tying Tamez to a check forgery scheme as a key participant, officials said.

The case was presented to a Bastrop County Grand Jury in December. Tamez was indicted on multiple counts of fraudulent use or possession of identity information, a third-degree felony.

She has since been released from the Bastrop County Jail on an undisclosed bond amount.

Bastrop County voters turned out in higher numbers for the March 3 primary election, casting 18,606 ballots to decide which candidates will represent their party in November.

The tally equals nearly 30% of the county’s 62,294 registered voters, according to unofficial results. That turnout surpasses totals from the 2024 primary, which saw 14,864 ballots cast, 25% of registered voters at the time.

LOCAL

For Texas House District 17, Republican voters selected current state Rep. Stan Gerdes with 59% of the vote. Gerdes defeated Tom Glass, who received 40% of 9,310 tickets.

He will be met by Mary Elizabeth Klenz, who won the race’s Democratic nomination over Frank Gomez III and Robert Salter. She claimed 62% of the total 7,467 ballots cast in the Democratic contest.

Gregory Klaus secured the Republican nomination for Bastrop County judge with 63% of the vote over Donald Loucks. He will face Democrat Dock Jackson in the November general election.

Sarah Loucks narrowly avoided a runoff after claiming the Republican nomination for Bastrop County district clerk with 51% of the vote. Holly Cox received about 25%, Ward Northcutt 15% and Tamara “Tammy” Batot 10% in the race.

Loucks will not face a Democratic challenger in November.

STATE

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott will defend his seat against Democrat Gina Hinojosa in the November election.

In the race for lieutenant governor, Republican incumbent Dan Patrick comfortably retained his party’s nomination with nearly 86% of the vote. He will face the winner of a Democratic runoff between Vikki Goodwin and Marcos Velez.

Both parties will also hold runoffs for the attorney general seat in May. Democrat Nathan Johnson will face Joe Jaworski, while Republicans Mayes Middleton and Chip Roy will compete for their party’s nomination.

Incumbent Attorney General Ken Paxton is running for U.S. Senate and will face incumbent John Cornyn in a Republican runoff. For comptroller, Democrat Sarah Eckhardt (64%) will go against Republican Don Huffines (60%), who unseated incumbent Kelly Hancock for the party’s choice.

Democrat Benjamin Flores (60%) will challenge Republican incumbent Dawn Buckingham for Texas land commissioner, Democrat Clayton Tucker will meet Republican Nate Sheets (52%) for agricultural commissioner and Democrat Jon Rosenthal will face either Bo French (32%) or incumbent Jim Wright (32%) for railroad commissioner.

In the Texas Supreme Court, Democrat Maggie Ellis and Republican incumbent Jimmy Blalock will square off for chief justice; Democrat Chari Kelly will challenge Republican incumbent James Sullivan for Place 2; Democrat Kristen Hawkins will battle Republican incumbent Kyle Hawkins — no relation — for Place 7; and Democrat Gisela Triana will try to unseat Republican Brett Busby for Place 8.

FEDERAL

In the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, James Talarico defeated Jasmine Crockett with about 53% of the vote. On the Republican side, Cornyn and Paxton advanced to a runoff.

For the U.S. House District 11 Democratic primary, Claire Reynolds defeated Pete Ruiz and will face Republican incumbent August Pfluger in November.

Milah Flores and Casey Shepard advanced to a runoff in the U.S. House District 17 Democratic primary, with the winner set to challenge Republican incumbent Pete Sessions.

Justin Early won the Democratic nomination in U.S. House District 31 and will face Republican incumbent John Carter in the general election.

Bus service launches out of renovated Smithville station, plans Elgin route

SMITHVILLE — A new commuter bus service connecting Bastrop County to downtown Austin launched last week out of a remodeled Smithville station.

The Capital Area Rural Transportation System (CARTS) celebrated March 2 the completion of its newly renovated Smithville hub, 300 N.W. Loop 230, in partnership with the Smithville Chamber of Commerce. Officials said fares for the regional routes linking Austin to Smithville and Bastrop, as well as Georgetown and Round Rock, will be free for a limited time to encourage locals to take advantage of the service.

“It’s more than just getting from point A to B,” Executive Director of Career Tracks Janice Bruno said. “It’s access to health care appointments, educational facilities and workforce training — it’s seniors maintaining their independence and families staying connected.”

The commuter service is funded through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program and is part of a broader regional initiative supported by a nearly $48 million award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The program aims to improve air quality and travel reliability while providing alternative options to driving along some of Central Texas’ busiest corridors.

Bruno added the collaboration behind the station highlights how area partnerships can expand opportunities for the entire community.

“Today’s ribbon cutting represents our shared belief that when we work together, we can create lasting impact,” Bruno said. “It’s going to be fantastic for what we have here — opportunity and support to move forward literally and figuratively. It means investing in infrastructure that empowers people.”

Under the same program, CARTS plans to expand commuter service from Elgin along FM 290 in June. The move would bring the total to three new commuter routes serving the region.

For details on routes, schedules and commuter services, visit ridecarts. com or call 512-478-RIDE.

City Council on March 3 authorized a pair of agreements they said are intended to support Elgin’s growing wastewater system as a whole and improve reliability across the network. Members of the unincorporated community, southwest of downtown, criticized a lack of communication and early planning for the potential 3 million gallon-per-day Littig facility.

“We simply ask that the city give equal weight to protecting the quality of life of the existing residents while planning the future of growth,” Alana Gonzalez said.

The council approved design services for an odor control system, a nearly $400,000 contract, and roughly $1.55 million in engineering services for new wastewater infrastructure. Plans include major gravity sewer lines from the Westwind and Elm Creek lift stations that would connect to the future treatment plant, according to the council.

“To have this type of odor control system, which is something that we do not have in our own city and our own wastewater treatment plant, is appropriate measures to move forward,” Councilwoman YaLecia Love said.

In a December community meeting, Littig residents said the plant on newly annexed city land unjustly targets the community and its cultural legacy.

Several community members revisited the podium during Tuesday’s meeting to address the council directly.

“The initial lack of odor engineering isn’t just an oversight,” Juanita Valerie Neidig said. “It’s a direct threat to our land, our livestock, our health, our food and the heritage of the people in Littig.”

Love said the odor control system was included on the agenda because of concerns voiced by residents during the December meeting.

“We are here, we have been proactive in trying to mitigate with the residents,” she said.

The facility is part of Elgin’s long-term plan for continued growth and infrastructural demand, according to officials.

Public Works Director Michael Gonzalez said beginning odor control work now would help avoid higher costs later in the project. Designs would not commit the city to constructing the plant but would allow planning to move forward while officials continue evaluating the project.

He added funding for the engineering designs comes from impact and developer fees. If the council decides to build the new facility, the cost of the odor control system would add $4 million to the total construction tab.

“Retro designing something can be done, but it’s much more expensive,” Michael Gonzalez said. “Staff feels that this is a timely proposal.”

Alana Gonzalez, whose family lives directly next to the proposed site, said she worries what starts as a relatively small plant could become a much larger regional facility.

“Families in our community made long-term investments in their homes and properties far before this project was proposed,” she said.

City Manager Robert Eads said the separate contract for new wastewater infrastructure is designed to improve Elgin’s sewer lines and reduce the risk of mechanical failures that frequently happen with gravity based systems.

“Staff remains pretty firm in saying that we need this as a community as a whole,” Eads said. “This is just smart, safe infrastructure for the entire community.”

Despite those assurances, Littig residents urged the council to slow the process and reconsider the project’s location before moving forward with any design work.

Born on Oct. 1, 1952, and raised in Dublin, Texas by Anne and Vernon Gibson, Suzanne was known for her unwavering warmth, radiant smile and a nurturing heart that made her home and kitchen a sanctuary for her children, extended family and numerous friends.

A graduate of Dublin High School and Tarleton State University, it was in a college science course where she met and fell in love with her devoted husband, Roger Nelson Mogonye. From that chance encounter in a lecture hall, their love blossomed into almost 52 years of marriage, a fruitful partnership and countless memories that centered around faith and their growing family.

A motherly soul, Suzanne’s life’s work and the center of her universe were her children, and later — her biggest source of pride and joy — her grandchildren. She was the epitome of selflessness, often sacrificing her own comfort to ensure her children were unconditionally loved, fully supported, and guided for their own life journeys. 

Suzanne raised six children with patience and humor and never minded the role of diplomat when disagreements occurred. She taught them all to be independent, to work hard, and to always look out for one another. 

Throughout life, Suzanne treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as GiGi.

Whether managing a busy household, assisting with the family business and farming and ranching operations, traveling to and cheering at countless ball games and youth sporting events, or organizing family dinners, she did everything with grace and dedication. A longtime Sunday School teacher and devout Christian, Suzanne could often be found in service to others at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church or as a lifelong member of both the Daughters of the American Revolution and Daughters of the Republic of Texas.

An ardent supporter of not just her own children’s many athletic and academic pursuits, Suzanne also cheered on their teammates as if they were her own. Always on her feet — either in the kitchen preparing her famous chocolate chip cookies and often-requested chicken fried steaks or mixing and loading fertilizer for hundreds of customers-turned-friends or faithfully supporting the Elgin Wildcats from the bleachers with her cowbell and ear-piercing, two-fingered whistle — Suzanne never rested. 

Many who knew her can attest to her tirelessness and wondered if Suzanne ever got a moment’s sleep.

It was in 2025 that Suzanne was diagnosed with cancer. And, unsurprisingly, she faced her illness with remarkable courage and determination, refusing to let the diagnosis define her joy or interrupt her role as a wife, mother and grandmother. Her strength and unwillingness to let illness slow her down during treatment inspired countless friends and family members.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Anne and Vernon Gibson; in-laws, Janelle and Emil Mogonye; and brother-in-law Michael Lloyd.

Suzanne is survived by her loving and faithful husband, Roger Mogonye; and their six children: Dr. Jason Mogonye, Whitney Mogonye, Lindsey (Jonathan) Hansen, Courtney (Jedd) McWhorter, Jake (Jennifer) Mogonye, and Justin Mogonye. Known as “GiGi,” she also leaves behind seven beautiful grandchildren: Hayes Hansen, Brooks Hansen, Callum McWhorter, Charlotte McWhorter, Kennedy Mogonye, Ryan Mogonye, and Hagen Mogonye. 

She is also survived by her brother, Larry (Molly) Gibson, niece Amanda Gibson, nephew Jim Dee (Judy) Gibson, her sister-in-law Judy Mogonye Lloyd, brother-in-law Tracy (Joyce) Mogonye, and nephews Kurt and Jon-Erik Mogonye, and Scott (Tanya), Rob (Sally) and David (Erin) Lloyd.

Though illness weakened her body, her spirit remained fierce and vibrant. She fought to the very end to be with her children and grandchildren, leaving a void that can never be filled, but a love that will never be forgotten. 

Rest in eternal peace, Mom; you have earned your respite.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 6-8 p.m., Friday, March 6, at Providence-Jones Funeral Home. A celebration of Suzanne’s life will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, at St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Elgin. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Cattlemen for Cancer Research to support cancer research, a cause close to her heart.

BASTROP — A local college student is bringing the story of the Bastrop County Complex Fire to the stage, using his university thesis to explore how communities remember and rebuild after disaster.

Bastrop native and University of Texas at Austin senior Aaron Sullivan will present a public reading of his play, “The Lost Pines,” nearly 15 years after the 32,000-acre blaze tore through the county. The free reading March 7 at the Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St., pulls from an early version of Sullivan’s work and examines the 2011 Complex Fire through archival material, interviews and his own childhood memories.

“Documentary theater is like theater and journalism combined,” Sullivan said. “With my studies in both of them, it seemed like a natural fit.”

The two-act play reconstructs the wildfire from ignition to recovery. Through the script, Sullivan asks if locally produced theater can strengthen a community’s collective memory about disasters, especially as area development and wildfire risk remain prominent. 

“Theater is very ephemeral — a big part of this process for me has been thinking about the Bastrop that I know and the Bastrop that I grew up in,” he said. “I think there’s a parallel quality to this, like this fleeting moment of theater is like this fleeting moment of Bastrop as well.”

Sullivan lived in Tahitian Village during the fire, which destroyed over 1,600 homes and killed two people. His house escaped major damage, but he said the experience stayed with him.

“I remember evacuating,” Sullivan said. “I was hysterically crying, and then we rushed into the car and waited in about an hour’s worth of traffic with this big thing of smoke behind us.”

Years later, he returns to the story as both a journalist and artist.

According to Sullivan, the script draws from interviews with firefighters, reporters and evacuees and residents who lost their homes.

“The Lost Pines” also makes use of archival research available at the Bastrop Public Library and University of Texas’ Briscoe Center.

One account comes from an Alaskan firefighter who traveled across the country to battle the blaze. Sullivan said perspectives like that aren’t often revealed, but they show the humanity of Texans in crisis.

“It’s just this really powerful account of his experiences coming from Alaska,” he said. “It does a very good job of illustrating this kind of attitude in Texas that’s really hard to describe … the way that Texans treat each other.”

The reading includes six actors with scripts in hand and minimal staging. After the performance, audience members will join a discussion to help shape the work’s development.

Sullivan said the interactive element is central to the project.

“Theater is a collective experience,” he said, adding he wants the format to encourage empathy in ways a traditional article or film cannot. “We’re coming together to watch it, and then we need to have a conversation about what we just saw.”

The project comes as the county continues to grow, bringing new residents who may not remember the disaster but share the same wildfire risk.

For longtime residents and newcomers alike, Sullivan said he wants people to be good neighbors.

“Bastrop is changing whether you like it or not,” Sullivan said. “Welcome those people and explain what they need to do to not only protect themselves but protect the entire community, because it’s a collective effort.”

Along with a performance in Austin Feb. 27, the Bastrop reading will serve as part of Sullivan’s honors thesis as he completes a double major in journalism and theater and dance.

Sullivan said a full production is something he is thinking about for the future, possibly timed with the disaster’s 15th anniversary in September. Though for now, he wants the community to simply remember and help each other in times of need.

The validation announced Feb. 4 marks a milestone for the district, expected to receive an estimated $230,437 in funding this year and about $1,152,185 over five years. The designations are valid for five years and will be noted on teachers’ certifications, providing salary increases based on their designation level.

“This is a critical achievement for our district and one our entire community can be proud of,” Superintendent Jana Rueter said in a statement. “Becoming TIA-validated helps make Elgin ISD a destination district for educator recruitment and retention.”

District officials said 92% of awarded funds will go directly to teachers.

The validation was created under House Bill 3 and is designed to reward high-performing educators throughout the state with a pathway to earn higher salaries. The move came during a statewide teacher shortage still impacting districts today.

Among those recognized is Amanda Casarez, a middle school algebra teacher and department chair who earned an Exemplary designation.

“It’s just proof that what I’ve been investing my time and heart in is coming to light in this way,” Casarez said. “It feels very rewarding to finally get that acknowledgement … but despite the designation, my hard work is showing in the students’ performance.”

Casarez, who has taught at Elgin Middle School for nine years, said the award highlights student growth within her classroom. She credits a grading rubric she created that requires students to show their work and focus on daily speaking and writing.

“It’s just so amazing to see these kids cheer each other on every day and just see them excited,” she said.

Casarez said the recognition also reflects the benefits of teacher retention. She and a fellow algebra teacher at her campus were the only two educators there to receive the recognition.

“When we stick around and we continue to work together over and over again, we just get better and better,” she said. “I think teachers getting this designation will motivate other teachers to do better or want to come to our campus.”

Casarez said students quickly recognize when a teacher is fully committed, and that building relationships is often what breaks down barriers to learning.

“It takes hard work and it takes dedication … you have to be willing to put in the man hours and your heart has to be in it,” Casarez said. “When your heart is not in it, they feel it 100%.”

Awards aside, excellence in teaching is an ongoing pursuit, according to the Casarez.

“To be excellent at what I do is an everyday struggle,” she said. “It’s something that you’re always chasing and there’s still room for me to modify and improve.”

Of the 35 educators recognized, 14 earned Master status, placing them among the top 5% of educators statewide. Another 13 earned Exemplary, ranking in the top 20%, and eight became Recognized teachers, in the top 33% of Texas teachers.

“The progress we’ve seen, with many of our teachers now ranking among the highest performing in Texas, is a testament to their commitment to student achievement and their own professional growth,” Executive Director of Human Resources Sarah Farias said in a statement.

BASTROP — Commissioners last week heard a full spectrum of Bastrop County voices in heated debate and ultimately tabled a decision to rename a stretch of highway the “Charlie Kirk Corridor.”

The resolution, brought forward Feb. 23 by Precinct 4 Commissioner David Glass, would have called upon local representatives to sponsor legislation to rename a portion of FM 969 after the late right-wing political activist. Glass told the packed courtroom the idea was first brought to him three months earlier and he wrestled with the decision to include it in the agenda.

“I’ve listened to all of you,” the commissioner said. “Out of respect for everyone, let’s have some more comments … more public discussion.”

The flashpoint topic filled courtroom seats and saw residents standing along the walls spilling into the hallway. Speakers on both sides of the political divide provided emotional remarks, often prompting

“Debate is always a good thing in this country. We’re not always going to agree on things … but be very respectful in that process.”

— Commissioner David Glass outbursts and applause from the dense crowd.

“Debate is always a good thing in this country,” Glass said.” We’re not always going to agree on things … but be very respectful in that process.”

Several residents urged the county not to move the resolution forward, saying public roadways should be built to unify the community rather than reflect national politics.

“This is not a neutral legacy … this is not a unifying legacy,” resident Josi Haney said. “This is not what should define a public landmark or represent an entire county.”

Supporters of the resolution countered the conservative activist, fatally shot Sept. 10 while hosting a debate at Utah Valley University, inspired civic engagement and deserved recognition.

“This is an appropriate and important expression of the county’s support for honoring Charlie Kirk and his mission that was tragically cut short by an assassin,” resident Mark Wyatt said. “Charlie Kirk was an American patriot and Christian who encouraged informed civic and cultural engagement, particularly with young students on campuses across the nation.”

Others raised policy and financial concerns, including costs to residents and businesses along the highway for updating legal documents, signage and maps.

“These are hours of their time and their dollars out of their pockets for something they did not ask for and do not want,” resident Ruth Todd said. “This is not a responsible use of our tax dollars.”

One speaker, Tom Glass, a candidate for state representative running in the primary against fellow Republican incumbent Stan Gerdes, who also supported the resolution, drew immediate reaction. Tom Glass compared Kirk’s influence to that of Martin Luther King Jr., saying both men brought Christian values into political debate.

The remark prompted audible murmurs in the courtroom and another speaker later called the comparison “a disgrace.”

“Both appealed to the founding document of our nation, the Declaration of Independence, which said all people are created equal and have unalienable rights,” Tom Glass said.

County officials did not set a date to revisit the proposal. Commissioners said it could be discussed in the future after additional public input.

The meeting resumed its regular agenda after a brief recess allowed the crowd to clear.

Previously held the second weekend in May, Explore Elgin Arts and Culture will now feature events throughout the year. Monthly themes will tie events together and encourage community participation, a shift Main Street Manager Kristina Alvarez said was driven by feedback on the single-weekend format.

“The biggest complaint was that, ‘I couldn’t do this because I was busy,’ or ‘I couldn’t go see that because there was just too much going on,’” she said. “That’s when we thought that it’s really not just for a weekend — why don’t we break it up into something that we can really enjoy the whole year?”

Community events include musical performances, art exhibitions, farm tours, competitions and more.

Each month, under the expanded format, a theme will be posted on the city’s website and social media accounts. Elgin organizations are encouraged to host accompanying activities, shows or celebrations and share them online using the hashtag #ExploreElginTX.

Alvarez said the yearlong approach helps the city hit its broader target of tourism promotion and downtown engagement.

“It’s really about how we can enjoy and explore Elgin culture all year long,” she said. “We’ve got some really awesome businesses and everyone’s working together so symbiotically.”

According to the Main Street manager, many residents are still unaware of downtown Elgin’s recent development.

“I’ve met people who’ve been here eight years and don’t even know we have a downtown, so that’s always our challenge,” Alvarez said.

Explore Elgin’s “Picture This!” photo promotion invites residents and visitors to submit themed snapshots each month on the Visit Elgin Facebook account. The photo with the most likes will be featured on the city’s website and the photographer will be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card for downtown shops.

“It’s about getting people involved and excited about their community,” Alvarez said.

According to the city, the expanded program looks to give Elgin talent more room to breathe in the spotlight while drawing attention to what’s happening locally.

“What was once this high energy and crazy weekend is now something that we can celebrate all year,” Alvarez said. “We have so much to offer and we can’t cram it into one weekend.”

This month’s photo theme is Spring into New Beginnings, with a focus on color, movement and growth. City-sponsored events include a St. Patrick’s Day festival at Things Celtic, plant swaps with Elgin Plant People and a Dr. Seuss celebration at the library.

A full schedule and list of themes is available at elgintexas.gov/1399/ Explore-Elgin-All-Year-Long.

“The $75,000 for a 50year lease is insulting,” Smithville resident Derek Baranowski said, adding he might be in favor of the tower if LCRA provided more benefits or money in the deal.

While LCRA representative Elizabeth Ehlers said the sum was a fair going rate, price was ultimately not the issue.

During meetings Jan. 27 and Feb. 9, resident after resident spoke against the LCRA tower. Speakers cited potential health concerns and a negative hit to property value in the area.

Councilman Mitch Jameson said not a single person had spoken to him about the tower favorably outside the meeting.

“My priority and my obligation are to represent my constituents, and the overwhelming majority of feedback is opposed to this project,” he said.

Both Jameson and Councilwoman Cathy Meeks noted LCRA has been a great partner to the city.

“I hope we can move forward and away from this and find another solution, but this one won’t work,” Jameson said.

Council members voted unanimously against the proposal.

Smithville City Council meetings can be attended in person at City Hall, 317 Main St., or streamed online at ci.smithville. tx.us/189/City-Council.

A local woman faces three felony forgery charges and additional counts involving stolen firearms and drugs after an investigation into missing funds from school-related organizations, police said.

Sara Collins was arrested Wednesday, Feb. 18, on three third-degree felony c ount s of forgery of a financial instrument. The charges are tied to “discrepancies” in the Elgin Independent School District Wildcat Booster Club and Project accounts, according to the Elgin Police Department.

Police said a report filed Feb. 2 prompted the investigation. Based on evidence discovered, officers executed arrest and a search warrants at Collins’ home on Pleasant Grove Road in Elgin, assisted by the Travis County Special Weapons and Tactics Team.

The search led to additional charges against the suspect and her husband, Marcus Collins, including possession of stolen firearms and possession of a controlled substance.

Both Sara and Marcus were booked into the Bastrop County Jail.

Each felony forgery warrant carries a $50,000 bond.

Police are urging anyone with information regarding this incident to contact detective Dylan Judd at 737-233-4855 or Dylan. Judd@ElginTexas.gov.

More details to come in the Courier as the story develops.

Power will serve her first judicial appointment as backup to Municipal Judge Caroline McClimon. Her two-year term took effect Feb. 10.

Municipal judges oversee cases involving city ordinances, including code enforcement and truancy matters.

Power was sworn in by 423rd District Judge Chris Duggan.

PARKING PROBLEMS

Council members heard a proposal to buy downtown property as part of a broader effort to address parking shortages in the city.

The Bastrop Economic Development Corporation approved a funding agreement with the city at its Feb. 9 meeting to purchase 0.16 acre at 804 Water St. for $525,000.

“In the downtown area we are struggling with parking … significantly on not just event days, but for almost every day,” City Manager Sylvia Carrillo said. “As we begin to investigate a parking structure, if there’s some potential to acquire this and other lots this would be a fine place for that.”

Carrillo said even if other lots don’t materialize and a parking garage isn’t feasible the lot could still be used for parking or retail.

Duggan acknowledged the court may exacerbate the parking problem.

“I think I owe the citizens an apology because every time we do a jury trial, that’s usually about 150 citizens parking right around the courthouse at 804 Pecan (St.),” he said.

Duggan added trials are held on Mondays, usually at the same time as Commissioners Court meetings, which also contribute to downtown congestion.

GOLF COURSE STUDY

Feasibility studies for a potential golf course and hotel are expected to be completed this month, according to Carrillo. Another regional hospital study will be done in March.

In December, council approved funding for studies evaluating a hospital and hotel or convention center near Texas 71 and FM 20, as well as an 18-hole par-three golf course at 1500 Farm St. Carrillo previously said developers have shown strong interest in Bastrop- area projects.

“Our 35-mile radius from Bastrop Center has a potential population service of 1.6 million people,” she said.

MORE TRANSPARENCY

The city is preparing to launch a new online budget portal that will allow the public to view detailed expenditures, including check register items and expense reports.

Carrillo said the system is in final testing.

A management dashboard is nearing completion and is intended to help staff and council track project progress and associated budgets.

A public hearing this week will also review potential changes coming to Bastrop’s building code.

Earlier this month, the city mailed notices to property owners and businesses with state-required language that officials said could be alarming, stating “you may lose the right to continue using your property for its current use.”

The change from Bastrop’s current B3 code has been in the works for over a year. The new code is designed to be easier to use and geared toward individual areas of town rather than a one-size-fits-all system, according to the city.

The Planning and Zoning Commission public hearing is set for 6 p.m. Feb. 26 at City Hall. The council is expected to hear the item at their March 24 meeting and vote on it April 14.

At their Feb. 9 meeting, Commissioners Court approved a notice of intent to issue certificates of obligation, which would allow the county to borrow up to $65 million and fund major public projects without holding a bond election. If approved in April, provided the county follows required public notice and waiting periods, the move would fund improvements to county facilities and roads, and help upgrade emergency systems and public safety infrastructure.

County Judge Gregory Klaus said the jail expansion is a primary driver behind the proposal, which calls for adding 300 beds.

“When I first became county judge three years ago, we were making over $1.2 million housing federal prisoners,” Klaus said. “We’re wanting to add on to the jail so we can possibly get some more money coming into the county.”

Commissioners said the additional beds could allow the county to generate income again and avoid having to pay neighboring counties to house its own inmates.

“We don’t want to be in the position, which will happen if we don’t expand, of paying our neighbors to house our own prisoners,” Commissioner Clara Beckett said.

The debt would be repaid through property taxes, according to the court. Financial estimates assume a 20-year repayment term with a borrowing rate of about 4.5% and first payment due in 2027.

County leaders cited the county’s growing tax base, stable budget performance and conservative financial management as strengths.

“This is a significant transaction and we want to get it the attention that it deserves,” said Blake Roberts, a financial advisor to the county.

Commissioners are expected to consider final authorization in the coming months.