Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Obligatory Weather, Corona Virus, Council Results and More!

*****Obligatory Weather*****

Well, it was much warmer yesterday!  Look out, it's already 91° today and climbing.  Now the interesting part of this is a cold front is due this week too.  They are forecasting possible thunderstorms today through Saturday, so keep an eye out in case some are severe.  Other than that, it looks like we might get some rain and maybe it will knock out the rest of the blooms on the Oak trees!

As far as Lake Travis, it it currently at 673.36, about a foot higher than seven days ago.  Depending on the rainfall, we may see it rise a little more in the next few days.


*****Corona Virus Update*****

Well, time rolls on and everyone has an opinion.  My opinion, don't look to the local elected officials or social media for information.  None of the local elected officials are doctors - go to the source of information - CDC.gov or State Information - as far as rules, so far our parks are still open, but since Travis County is closing all theirs, and the County Judge Sara Eckhardt is getting new orders ready, watch for new rules soon.

As far as area infection rates, so far today 78738 has 11 confirmed cases and 78734 has 6 confirmed cases, here is a link to an interactive map that gives you confirmed cases by zip code.

*****Council Meeting*****

Started off with a bang just a couple of minutes late.  Passed the consent agenda unanimously, the only item was moving the ZAPCO meeting to the second Tuesday of the month -  starting at 9:10 a.m.  Why the odd time you ask?  Because the Men's Breakfast Club goes to 9:00 a.m. and this gives the ZAPCO members time to get to the meeting.  I guess they don't realize that the Breakfast Club meeting is on Wednesday - Tuesday is open.....

4)  Update on Corona Virus.  Mayor said she is talking and on a lot of calls, stay in and social distance.  It then morphed into a discussion on the stimulus plan.  Council Member Kumar gave a presentation on the plan - but, not really the in the purview of the City Council.  If folks need this information, it is better to go to the professionals that are involved in the program.
  • City Manager asked for variances /waiving ordinances on signage for businesses trying to stay open. 
  • Travel trailers in driveway issues.  CM wants to waive ordinances on this also. 
  • Talked about whether or not people should wear a mask when outside and whether there should be an ordinance requiring it.
  • Talked about hours worked and whether the city would be reimbursed?  

None of these were on the agenda - how does that work?

5)  Report from the Mayor about what they want and a small size to look at far plan to re-develop and increase economic development.

Mayor wants to appoint Ron Massa as chair.  Howell, Vance want business owners, Mastrangelo wants restaurateur and retail.  Sounds like a lot for a three member committee.  

As a friend put it - the objective is to make Lakeway successful as a result of having a successful business community, not having business successful at the expense of the citizens of Lakeway.

Passed unanimously.

6)  In the mode of "If you have money, spend it" the council is looking at several projects that could be done with salary savings from the year, about $164,000.  Some on the capital plan, some not.  Wonder if they are figuring in possible income reduction for the city from reduced sales tax and other things regarding tax income reduction.  What if the property values start down?

After much discussion, it was decided to remove UV addition to pool and remove Monument maintenance.  They are going ahead with the touch-less faucets, water fountains and Activity Center improvements.


*****My Opinion:  Although the timing is great to do updates on some city facilities, wouldn't it make since to look at the possible affect on city finances from the virus?  My expectation is that revenues will be significantly lower - none of the stores are open, restaurants are closed and many other income producing sources will be affected.  There was little discussion about that at the meeting.
Infamous Executive Sessions


  • 7)  Legal and Real Estate Issues Oaks PUD / Stratus - No update
  • 8)  Cherry Knoll Lawsuits - they came out of executive session and voted to accept a settlement - more as I find out - I'm sure it's secret!
  • 9)  YMCA MOU - No update
  • 10)  Legal and Real Estate issues - Lakeway Highlands and Rough Hollow - No Update.
  • 11)  Legal and Real Estate - Possible Chapter 418 Mutual Aid Agreement regarding EMS Services. - No report
Meeting Adjourned at 10:00 p.m.

**********
Please, everyone stay safe and try to isolate from others.  Most of my friends are in the "High Risk" group and many have underlying conditions.  Don't take chances.  

If you would like to be added to my email list (or removed) please send a note to lakeway@bain.us and I'll get it done!  Let's all keep a positive attitude and we'll all get through this!

Joe Bain








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