The City survey is on line now! Click here or go to the City Website for the survey. Thanks to Chessie Blanchard for putting this together! Be sure to make your opinion heard!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Monday, April 26, 2010
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Weekly Update ++
There were 22 single family residence building permits issued in March compared to 3 that were issued in March of 2009. This means we have continued growth - good news! Highest activity are Tuscan Village, North Lakeway Village and Rough Hollow.
The City is required to appoint an official depository (bank). Currently Prosperity Bank is the official depository and that appointment is scheduled to expire in June. Our new Financial Manager, Julie Oakley is preparing a RFP that will be sent to the local banks soliciting their interest. The Council will consider the recommendation at the May meeting.
The owners of the boat ramp at Lakeway Resort plan to begin restricting access to the ramp. It is currently owned by Lakeway Marina and the Marina Village Condominiums and they intend to close the ramp to public use because of costs and liability issues. Steve Jones made a recommendation that they consider making it available to residents on a permit or membership basis and the owners are investigating that possibility.
Ken DeBower, Emergency Management Coordinator, gave a demonstration of the capabilities of our Emergency Notification System to representatives of The Hills and Travis County Sheriffs Dept. The system facilitates mass communication by phone to residents in a geographical area selected on a digital map.
The turn lane project at Hwy 71 and Serene Hills Drive is progressing. It appears the westbound deceleration lane is almost ready for paving. It appears the contractor is pretty much on schedule.
The City will soon be announcing a survey to gather local opinion regarding texting and cell phone use while driving. Look for more information soon.
The Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual Spring Fest today and tomorrow at the Galleria from 11:00AM to 9:00PM. The weather is beautiful - go out and enjoy it!
I just found out that Busters BBQ got their CO this week - that means they should be open soon!
Today Lakeway MUD was busy handing out free toilets at the City
Hall - you should have received information on the program in your water bill - I waited in line and received two high efficiency toilets. Richard Eason was busy at work making sure everything went smoothly!
Hope you have a GREAT weekend! More soon I'm sure!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
The City is required to appoint an official depository (bank). Currently Prosperity Bank is the official depository and that appointment is scheduled to expire in June. Our new Financial Manager, Julie Oakley is preparing a RFP that will be sent to the local banks soliciting their interest. The Council will consider the recommendation at the May meeting.
The owners of the boat ramp at Lakeway Resort plan to begin restricting access to the ramp. It is currently owned by Lakeway Marina and the Marina Village Condominiums and they intend to close the ramp to public use because of costs and liability issues. Steve Jones made a recommendation that they consider making it available to residents on a permit or membership basis and the owners are investigating that possibility.
Ken DeBower, Emergency Management Coordinator, gave a demonstration of the capabilities of our Emergency Notification System to representatives of The Hills and Travis County Sheriffs Dept. The system facilitates mass communication by phone to residents in a geographical area selected on a digital map.
The turn lane project at Hwy 71 and Serene Hills Drive is progressing. It appears the westbound deceleration lane is almost ready for paving. It appears the contractor is pretty much on schedule.
The City will soon be announcing a survey to gather local opinion regarding texting and cell phone use while driving. Look for more information soon.
The Lake Travis Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual Spring Fest today and tomorrow at the Galleria from 11:00AM to 9:00PM. The weather is beautiful - go out and enjoy it!
I just found out that Busters BBQ got their CO this week - that means they should be open soon!
Today Lakeway MUD was busy handing out free toilets at the City
Hall - you should have received information on the program in your water bill - I waited in line and received two high efficiency toilets. Richard Eason was busy at work making sure everything went smoothly!Hope you have a GREAT weekend! More soon I'm sure!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Burglaries, Council Results
Burglaries!
Several cars were burglarized in the Tellus and Copperleaf area yesterday. All of the cars were unlocked! HELP! PLEASE LOCK YOUR CARS and store valuables out of sight!
Council Update:
Pedernales Electric Co. presented the City a check for $55,490.11 for their quarterly franchise fee. The Council also approved an ordinance granting an electric utility franchise agreement to Pedernales Electric for the next 15 years.
Their was a statement by Mayor DeOme honoring Ray Norris for his service to Lakeway. Click here for a partial list of his volunteer accomplishments.
Mayor DeOme also proclaimed the week of May 10, 2010 as Price of Freedom Week in Lakeway after a presentation by Mike Boston.
A zoning change request presented by East El Paso Medical Group for the Lakeway Airpark South subdivision to change 2.7 acres from AV (Aviation) to R-1 residential was tabled for a month because there were concerns that agreements might need more time to be finalized. It will be scheduled again for the May meeting.
An ordinance was passed to amend the Special Election ordinance to change the ballot language to allow it to fit in the Electronic Ballot machines used by Travis County.
A Resolution was passed for the Appointment of Julie Oakley as Finance Director - welcome!
Bobbie Caldarelli was appointed Board of Adjustment alternate.
Erik Mulloy was appointed Deer Control Committee, Member.
______________________________________
This evening I went to the dress rehearsal of the Spring Sing Along Show at the Activity Center - here is a link to the pictures I took!
Have a GREAT day!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Several cars were burglarized in the Tellus and Copperleaf area yesterday. All of the cars were unlocked! HELP! PLEASE LOCK YOUR CARS and store valuables out of sight!
Council Update:
Pedernales Electric Co. presented the City a check for $55,490.11 for their quarterly franchise fee. The Council also approved an ordinance granting an electric utility franchise agreement to Pedernales Electric for the next 15 years.
Their was a statement by Mayor DeOme honoring Ray Norris for his service to Lakeway. Click here for a partial list of his volunteer accomplishments.
Mayor DeOme also proclaimed the week of May 10, 2010 as Price of Freedom Week in Lakeway after a presentation by Mike Boston.
A zoning change request presented by East El Paso Medical Group for the Lakeway Airpark South subdivision to change 2.7 acres from AV (Aviation) to R-1 residential was tabled for a month because there were concerns that agreements might need more time to be finalized. It will be scheduled again for the May meeting.
An ordinance was passed to amend the Special Election ordinance to change the ballot language to allow it to fit in the Electronic Ballot machines used by Travis County.
A Resolution was passed for the Appointment of Julie Oakley as Finance Director - welcome!
Bobbie Caldarelli was appointed Board of Adjustment alternate.
Erik Mulloy was appointed Deer Control Committee, Member.
______________________________________
This evening I went to the dress rehearsal of the Spring Sing Along Show at the Activity Center - here is a link to the pictures I took!
Have a GREAT day!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Weekly Update
As previously noted, the city obtained an improved Bond rating - per a question from a citizen (thanks) the City Manager requested our financial advisor to per form a study to see if refinancing some of our outstanding debt would be beneficial. As it turns out, we have a very good rate and refinancing before the call date would affect the cost. If the rates continue to get better and an opportunity arises, the City will take advantage of it!
Mr. Jones met with Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Thursday to discuss locating an ambulance and crew at the new hospital. LMRC indicated they are willing to provide space and services to meet EMS needs. EMS is doing a computer analysis and will let the City and Hospital know of their decision in the near future.
There have been a lot of questions about the other medical facility located behind the post office. There have been negotiations going on between that facility and the larger facility on 620 - it seems that those negotiations have broken off. The short answer is that I don't know what will happen - I'll let you know if I hear something.
The City learned this week that Lake Travis Methodist Church has rejected the request for an easement to construct our new entry monument on their property on RR 620 North. The City and Janet Wright have worked for some time under the impression from previous meetings that the Church would grant the easement - it appears now the City will have to look to other properties for this space.
Andra Streety, Chessie Blanchard and Steve Jones met with Friends of the Parks members George Blume and Michael Smith this week to discuss plans for hiking trails in the Rough Hollow are. Plans are to develop a master plan for the area.
The Comptroller of Public Accounts launched the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle Program to recognize local governments that are striving to meet a high standard for financial transparency. I'm happy to report the City of Lakeway received the highest level award (Gold) this week for our efforts - GREAT job!
I reported on an auto accident last week in front of the MUD office. It turns out the driver had a medical issue and passed out and after striking the tree, kept running and started the fire. The two officers that suffered from smoke inhalation are in good condition and the officer who was struck by a limb suffered a fractured skull but is in good condition and expected to make a full recovery. GREAT work and thanks for taking care of our citizens!
City Council will meet on Monday evening at 6:30PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Click here for the Agenda.
Board of Adjustment will meet April 21 at 3:00PM. Click here for the Agenda.
City Building Commission will meet April 22 at 9:00AM. Click here for the Agenda.
Thanks for LOOKING! More soon!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Mr. Jones met with Austin/Travis County Emergency Medical Services Thursday to discuss locating an ambulance and crew at the new hospital. LMRC indicated they are willing to provide space and services to meet EMS needs. EMS is doing a computer analysis and will let the City and Hospital know of their decision in the near future.
There have been a lot of questions about the other medical facility located behind the post office. There have been negotiations going on between that facility and the larger facility on 620 - it seems that those negotiations have broken off. The short answer is that I don't know what will happen - I'll let you know if I hear something.
The City learned this week that Lake Travis Methodist Church has rejected the request for an easement to construct our new entry monument on their property on RR 620 North. The City and Janet Wright have worked for some time under the impression from previous meetings that the Church would grant the easement - it appears now the City will have to look to other properties for this space.
Andra Streety, Chessie Blanchard and Steve Jones met with Friends of the Parks members George Blume and Michael Smith this week to discuss plans for hiking trails in the Rough Hollow are. Plans are to develop a master plan for the area.
The Comptroller of Public Accounts launched the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle Program to recognize local governments that are striving to meet a high standard for financial transparency. I'm happy to report the City of Lakeway received the highest level award (Gold) this week for our efforts - GREAT job!
I reported on an auto accident last week in front of the MUD office. It turns out the driver had a medical issue and passed out and after striking the tree, kept running and started the fire. The two officers that suffered from smoke inhalation are in good condition and the officer who was struck by a limb suffered a fractured skull but is in good condition and expected to make a full recovery. GREAT work and thanks for taking care of our citizens!
City Council will meet on Monday evening at 6:30PM in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Click here for the Agenda.
Board of Adjustment will meet April 21 at 3:00PM. Click here for the Agenda.
City Building Commission will meet April 22 at 9:00AM. Click here for the Agenda.
Thanks for LOOKING! More soon!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Breaking News, Board of Adjustment
The police had a busy night last evening. A car was driven into a tree at the Lakeway MUD office and then caught on fire. Two officers were able to rescue the driver and suffered minor smoke inhalation. At the same time this was going on, two other separate disturbances broke out and we had to call Bee Cave for backup. There was an arrest in one of the disturbances. At that point, a tree limb broke at the original crash site and struck an officer in the face - he was taken to the hospital with facial and eye injuries. Off duty officers were called to fill in for injured officers and finish the shift.
We are lucky to have a police force of this caliber! They put their lives on the line for us every day and I for one appreciate it. Let them know you appreciate it when you see them! Hopefully none of the injuries will turn out to be serious, keep them in your prayers.
The Board of Adjustment will meet on April 21, 2010 to rule on an appeal of a determination of the ZAPCO commission on a denial of a variance to allow fill dirt to be placed in excess of 12 feet and removal of 266 inches of hardwood trees in the area to be filled at the Niemann tract at RR 620 and Clara Van Trail. Here is the agenda.
Thanks for LOOKING!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
We are lucky to have a police force of this caliber! They put their lives on the line for us every day and I for one appreciate it. Let them know you appreciate it when you see them! Hopefully none of the injuries will turn out to be serious, keep them in your prayers.
The Board of Adjustment will meet on April 21, 2010 to rule on an appeal of a determination of the ZAPCO commission on a denial of a variance to allow fill dirt to be placed in excess of 12 feet and removal of 266 inches of hardwood trees in the area to be filled at the Niemann tract at RR 620 and Clara Van Trail. Here is the agenda.
Thanks for LOOKING!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Friday, April 9, 2010
Breaking News, Weekly report
Breaking News! Brad Paisley will headline AquaPalooza this Summer on Lake Travis! Here is the flyer!
Last Saturday, Judge Madison conducted a community service activity with four defendants who owed money to Lakeway. They cleaned up trash on both sides of Lakeway Blvd and the median from 620 to the West end - GREAT idea! Great job!
The Texas Municipal League published the results of their 2010 Municipal Tax and Debt Survey. Of 657 respondents, Lakeway ranks 547 in tax rate, 58 in total taxable property value and number 178 in total debt - this is GOOD!
In an effort to promote water conservation, Lakeway MUD has joined with WCID #17 and LCRA to distribute low-flow toilets. the MUD's will be giving away free toilets on a firs-come first-serve basis to qualified customers at the City Hall parking lot on Saturday, April 24 from 9:00 AM till noon.
Steve Jones gave a brief talk to Lake Travis Home Builders Assoc. Tuesday and by a show of hands they indicated an increase in home building in our area - more good news!
And yet another GOOD report! Moody's Investor Service has upgraded our bond rating from A1 to AA3. this is good news because it will reduce the interest rates on any future bond issues - it appears our fiscal management practices are recognized and rewarded!
On the lighter side, if you haven't been to Hamilton Greenbelt lately, check out the beautiful Bluebonnet fields there!
More soon! Thanks for the support!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Last Saturday, Judge Madison conducted a community service activity with four defendants who owed money to Lakeway. They cleaned up trash on both sides of Lakeway Blvd and the median from 620 to the West end - GREAT idea! Great job!
The Texas Municipal League published the results of their 2010 Municipal Tax and Debt Survey. Of 657 respondents, Lakeway ranks 547 in tax rate, 58 in total taxable property value and number 178 in total debt - this is GOOD!
In an effort to promote water conservation, Lakeway MUD has joined with WCID #17 and LCRA to distribute low-flow toilets. the MUD's will be giving away free toilets on a firs-come first-serve basis to qualified customers at the City Hall parking lot on Saturday, April 24 from 9:00 AM till noon.
Steve Jones gave a brief talk to Lake Travis Home Builders Assoc. Tuesday and by a show of hands they indicated an increase in home building in our area - more good news!
And yet another GOOD report! Moody's Investor Service has upgraded our bond rating from A1 to AA3. this is good news because it will reduce the interest rates on any future bond issues - it appears our fiscal management practices are recognized and rewarded!
On the lighter side, if you haven't been to Hamilton Greenbelt lately, check out the beautiful Bluebonnet fields there!
More soon! Thanks for the support!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Mid Week Update
I'm a little behind this week so lets get started!
Today ZAPCO held their meeting today, here is the agenda. Here are the results.
A sign that was modified without a permit for Jiffy Lube was on the agenda for approval. There were actually two signs, one on the building was approved, the monument sign did not conform to the sign ordinance was rejected.
Ryland Homes was given a special use permit for property at 105 Lombardia Dr. to have a model home on the property (item 4). They were also given permission for a temporary sign at this property (item 5).
Lakeway Church was given approval for a Preliminary Plan revision to divide the property into three lots to enable possible use of part of the property for collateral for a loan.
The owners of 803 Hurst Creek Road were given a variance of the development ordinance to allow a skateboard ramp to remain in the floodplain for 2 years. I expect this decision to be appealed.
A zoning change from Aviation to R-1 Residential for part of the property known as Lakeway Airpark South was recommended by the Board. There was opposition from the neighbors on the East side of the property.
There were two other items on the agenda that I was unable to stay for and I will try to report on them in a day or two.
Tomorrow the City Building Commission will meet at 9 am. Here is the agenda. I will report on that meeting tomorrow.
Don't forget that early voting is going on at Randalls the rest of the week, election day is next week.
More soon! I'm trying to keep up!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Today ZAPCO held their meeting today, here is the agenda. Here are the results.
A sign that was modified without a permit for Jiffy Lube was on the agenda for approval. There were actually two signs, one on the building was approved, the monument sign did not conform to the sign ordinance was rejected.
Ryland Homes was given a special use permit for property at 105 Lombardia Dr. to have a model home on the property (item 4). They were also given permission for a temporary sign at this property (item 5).
Lakeway Church was given approval for a Preliminary Plan revision to divide the property into three lots to enable possible use of part of the property for collateral for a loan.
The owners of 803 Hurst Creek Road were given a variance of the development ordinance to allow a skateboard ramp to remain in the floodplain for 2 years. I expect this decision to be appealed.
A zoning change from Aviation to R-1 Residential for part of the property known as Lakeway Airpark South was recommended by the Board. There was opposition from the neighbors on the East side of the property.
There were two other items on the agenda that I was unable to stay for and I will try to report on them in a day or two.
Tomorrow the City Building Commission will meet at 9 am. Here is the agenda. I will report on that meeting tomorrow.
Don't forget that early voting is going on at Randalls the rest of the week, election day is next week.
More soon! I'm trying to keep up!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Weekly Update +
As previously reported, work has resumed at the hospital site this week! It's moving along nicely now, the Medical Center submitted an application for building permits this week also - the plans nearly filled up the Building and Development office!
There is a plan to develop a private school here in Lakeway. A possible location is the Kids R Kids preschool site on RR 620. More soon on this I'm sure!
Martha Harris, a governmental relations representative for AT&T met with the City and told them AT&T plans to install new lines that will make it possible for them to offer U-Verse service to Lakeway residents - construction is planned to start in the third quarter of this year! This is good news, U-Verse is a GREAT product and I can't wait to try it out!
Moody's Investors Service is reviewing our bond rating (currently A1). The City hopes to maintain that rating and should have an official ruling next week.
The Mitchell lawsuit is moving along slowly. Out attorney filed and answer to the pleadings, moved the case to federal court, and denied any wrongdoing by the City or it's employees. A date for the preliminary hearing has not been set.
Pedernales Electric Coop has approved the new franchise agreement. It will be on the agenda for the next Council to review and take action on.
BDS indicates that 15 building permits for new homes were issued in February. This is half the number issued in 2007 but is an indication that we might have some steady growth throughout the year!
The Lakeway Census participation rate is 51%, the state is 46%, and Travis County is 42% - the National average is 52%. Get those forms filled out and turned in - you an I will be paying for the folks to come door to door.
The City will have a survey out next week with a few questions on cell phone use while driving. The City wants some insight on how the citizens feel on the issue!
More soon! Thanks for LOOKING! Don't forget to click on the links at the upper right! Infor on TexArts, Men's Breakfast, Bee Cave Bee, and Restaurant Health Scores! Enjoy!
I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday weekend - looks like the weather is going to be GREAT!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
There is a plan to develop a private school here in Lakeway. A possible location is the Kids R Kids preschool site on RR 620. More soon on this I'm sure!
Martha Harris, a governmental relations representative for AT&T met with the City and told them AT&T plans to install new lines that will make it possible for them to offer U-Verse service to Lakeway residents - construction is planned to start in the third quarter of this year! This is good news, U-Verse is a GREAT product and I can't wait to try it out!
Moody's Investors Service is reviewing our bond rating (currently A1). The City hopes to maintain that rating and should have an official ruling next week.
The Mitchell lawsuit is moving along slowly. Out attorney filed and answer to the pleadings, moved the case to federal court, and denied any wrongdoing by the City or it's employees. A date for the preliminary hearing has not been set.
Pedernales Electric Coop has approved the new franchise agreement. It will be on the agenda for the next Council to review and take action on.
BDS indicates that 15 building permits for new homes were issued in February. This is half the number issued in 2007 but is an indication that we might have some steady growth throughout the year!
The Lakeway Census participation rate is 51%, the state is 46%, and Travis County is 42% - the National average is 52%. Get those forms filled out and turned in - you an I will be paying for the folks to come door to door.
The City will have a survey out next week with a few questions on cell phone use while driving. The City wants some insight on how the citizens feel on the issue!
More soon! Thanks for LOOKING! Don't forget to click on the links at the upper right! Infor on TexArts, Men's Breakfast, Bee Cave Bee, and Restaurant Health Scores! Enjoy!
I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday weekend - looks like the weather is going to be GREAT!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Mid Week Update
Hi folks!
Just a short update. I have added another link at in "helpful links" that gives info on the upcoming TexArts program. Check it out and support them - the shows are GREAT!
I have actually seen work going on at the new hospital site - it's good to see it moving along. It also appears there will be an emergency center in the Galleria by the end of the year.
ZAPCO will have a full agenda next week, here it is! ZAPCO Agenda. Several signs, model home wavers, variances, and a zoning change at the Airpark. Check it out!
More to come soon!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
Just a short update. I have added another link at in "helpful links" that gives info on the upcoming TexArts program. Check it out and support them - the shows are GREAT!
I have actually seen work going on at the new hospital site - it's good to see it moving along. It also appears there will be an emergency center in the Galleria by the end of the year.
ZAPCO will have a full agenda next week, here it is! ZAPCO Agenda. Several signs, model home wavers, variances, and a zoning change at the Airpark. Check it out!
More to come soon!
Joe Bain
lakeway@bain.us
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