On Tuesday, Sept. 24, the Johnson High School Tennis team hosted Judson High School in a district matchup.

PHOTO BY DANIELLA MORENO Outside hitter Summer Hundl (No. 8) spikes the ball toward the awaiting Clemens players. The Jaguars will take on Steele High School on Friday, Oct. 4. Pictured left, setter Brooklyn Myers (No. 1) sets up the ball for her teammate to spike it. PHOTO BY DANIELLA MORENO

WIMBERLEY — The Wimberley Texans football team rebounded with a win on the road after suffering two consecutive away game losses to LBJ and Lampasas. With a 2-2 record, and their third consecutive away game, the Texans opened 4A Division 2 District 13 play with a decisive 47-21 win over host Navarro High School on Friday, Sept. 27. It was a huge win for Wimberley, who had not lost back-to-back games since the 2020 season. Head coach Doug Warren was impressed with the way the Texans began district play and put the two losses in the rear-view mirror: “We knew that everyone was 0-0 heading into the start of district play and how important it was for us to get a win on the road. We had a good week of practice and followed that up with a good outing on Friday night.” The Texans led 26-0 at the half and the scoring started from their first possession and play when Nolan Waida took a hand-off from quarterback Cody Stoever and ran for a 60-yard touchdown. Stoever would score next on an 8-yard run for a 12-0 lead after both extra points were missed. Waida who totaled 53 yards on two receptions, both resulting in touchdowns, scored on a 30-yard pass from Stoever for a 19-0 lead after the point after kick by Bo Holman was good. Josh Belanger recovered the ball in the end zone for a touchdown after a pass reception was fumbled, and the extra point was good to end the first half. Scoring in the second half came from a 52-yard touchdown run by Jace Morales, a 23-yard touchdown pass to Waida and a touchdown run by Benji Olmedo (six carries for 22 yards). Stoever led in rushing with 72 of the Texans’ 288 yards.  Cory Chappell had 22 yards, Jackson Parker had five yards, Mavreick Jacobs had 11 yards and Belanger had 44 yards. Waida led in pass receptions with 52 yards of the Texans’ 152-yard total. Morales had 42 yards and Bryson Anderson had 44 yards. Wimberley 3-2 (1-0) is open next week and has five games remaining on the schedule. The Texans will host Salado High School 2-3 (0-1) at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 11 before traveling to Jarrell High School on Oct. 18. “This is a good time to have the bye so we can rest up and heal before the back end of the season,” Warren said.

Pictured, Ajel Williams tips the ball back over to the Grizzlies. PHOTO BY VICTORIA CARREON PHOTO BY VICTORIA CARREON PHOTO BY VICTORIA CARREON Kayla Dobrosky dives to keep the ball in the air.

DRIPPING SPRINGS -- Dripping Springs City Hall will be temporarily closed starting Wednesday, Oct. 2, due to an extensive renovation project aimed at improving the building’s functionality and public services. During this time, all city hall employees will operate from alternate locations to ensure uninterrupted access to city services. The city hall renovation project is due to the growth of the city. Currently, there are two to three employees in offices designed for one, therefore, the renovation will add office space and will modernize the facilities and enhance the efficiency of city services for residents, according to the city of Dripping Springs. The reconstruction, expected to be completed within six months, will include adding offices, upgrades to structural components, energy-efficient systems, better audio/visual for city council and other meetings and accessibility features in line with current safety standards. Beginning on Oct. 2 employees currently in city hall will be housed in three alternative locations:

Note: This story contains quotes and information regarding a phone call about a school shooter. Despite this call being a hoax, it may be uncomfortable for readers. Please read with caution.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — The city of Dripping Springs is releasing a draft of its updated comprehensive plan, titled Reimagine Dripping Springs. The comprehensive plan is the city’s visionary roadmap designed to guide growth and development over the next 20 years. It is a plan that will help guide real estate, infrastructure investments, economic development and zoning. The plan ensures that all residents and businesses of Dripping Springs will benefit from the city's progress, while preserving its unique character and charm, according to a city news release. Some of the key goals of the plan include the following: • Community character: Manage growth and development, while prioritizing the preservation of the Hill Country character and the community’s sense of place. • Infrastructure & facilities: Ensure utilities, infrastructure and facilities are properly maintained and upgraded to serve community needs. • Connectivity and corridor enhancement: Provide an efficient and safe regional network of streets and highways. • Housing: Ensure and improve the quality of life for current and future residents by maintaining strong neighborhoods and providing housing options that meet the needs of community members. • Economic development & funding: Encourage balanced growth and foster a resilient and robust economy. City Planning Director Tory Carpenter said, “This plan represents the collective vision of our community. We are excited to take the next steps to continue to make Dripping Springs a great place to live and work for current and future residents. This plan helps us keep the heritage of what makes our city so great, while also having a clear vision of future development and how can we best serve the community in its rapid growth.” As part of the launch of the comprehensive plan, the city will hold a public meeting from 5-7 p.m. on Sept. 25 at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. This informational session will provide an in-depth overview of the key initiatives and timelines for implementation, as well as provide the public with a chance to give in person input to the city. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and continue providing input as the plan moves from vision to reality. “In addition to the upcoming public meeting, there will be a joint workshop held with members of city council, the Planning & Zoning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission and the Historic Preservation Commission,” Carpenter said. “This workshop will provide an opportunity for these groups to discuss the plan in depth and consider feedback from the community. It is important to emphasize that the plan is not final and we are actively seeking additional public input to make any necessary adjustments.” Residents can view the comprehensive plan draft by visiting www.reimaginedrippingsprings.com . Contact the Planning Department at planning@cityofdrippingsprings.com for more information or call the city at 512-858-4725.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — Garbo’s celebrated the official grand opening of its newest brick-and-mortar location in Dripping Springs on Friday, Sept. 20. Founded in 2013 by sisters Heidi, Hannah and Samantha Garbo, Garbo's has grown from an Austin food truck to a beloved restaurant brand known for its authentic New England cuisine, served with an Austin twist, according to a news release. Over the past decade, Garbo’s has become known for its classic Maine and Connecticut lobster rolls, as well as small plates, soups, salads and a variety of desserts. The Dripping Springs location, which opened earlier this summer, offers both the classics and a few new dishes exclusive to the location. Guests can look forward to a raw bar featuring New England oysters, beer battered fish and chips, whole live Maine lobster and more, according to the release. Additionally, Beverage Director Josh Loving has curated an exceptional beverage menu, showcasing craft cocktails, expertly paired wines, select beers and a variety of non-alcoholic options to complement the fresh flavors of the menu.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — Texas MedClinic Urgent Care opened a new clinic in Dripping Springs on Sept. 24, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony the day before, attended by ambassadors from the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce and local businesses. Located at 164 Belterra Village Way, Unit #A2 in Austin, the clinic is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. “The combined forces of a growing population, inundated emergency rooms and a shortage of primary care providers in the U.S. mean that even in metropolitan areas it can be difficult to access timely medical care,” said Jim Ashby, CEO of Texas MedClinic. “Our clinics provide the medical attention people need, when they need it — filling the gap between emergency care for life-threatening issues and routine care that can wait for a primary care appointment.” Such services include treatment for things ranging from sinus infections, earaches, sprains and strains, to fractures, lacerations, burns and wound management. Like all Texas MedClinics, the new clinic is also equipped with advanced diagnostic tools including X-ray, EKG and rapid PCR tests, stated a news release. Ashby said the latter is important during flu season because it allows providers to quickly determine the cause of symptoms common to numerous upper respiratory illnesses and develop treatment plans that will provide relief quickly. “Quality care is a given. What really sets us apart, though, is our service mentality. Our company has served Texas for more than 40 years and our staff and providers genuinely care about their neighbors,” said Ashby. “We know no one is excited about going to urgent care, so we aim to make the experience as comforting, convenient and quick as possible.” Texas MedClinic sees patients on a walk-in basis. People can learn more about its services, see accepted insurance plans and find the nearest location at www.TexasMedClinic.com .

WIMBERLEY — The Wimberley Valley Art League’s annual studio tour will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29. Hill Country artists will welcome visitors and collectors into their private studios, located in and around Wimberley, featuring art and a glimpse into the artist’s creative process. Artwork will range from oil, acrylic, fiber, metal and paper to sculpture, assemblage, photography, jewelry ceramic and more. Featured on the tour are Peggy Weiss, Kathy Utts, Jim Street, Warren Cullar, Shelley Esser, Jeff and Leigh Peterson, Diane Lunow and Trisha McWaters. In the studio with McWaters will be visiting artists Billielee Mommer, Martha Gibson and Jan Fitzhugh. The tour is free of charge and self-guided. Studio maps and additional information are available at www.wimberleyvalleyartleague.org.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — Members of Dripping Springs Elite Real Estate Professionals announced their donation of $1,000 to Patriots' Hall of Dripping Springs to support the organization’s mission to serve veterans of all ages in the local community. Patriots' Hall, a 10-acre retreat, is dedicated to supporting veterans through a range of programs, events and initiatives that promote healing, community and empowerment. The $1,000 donation will help Patriots' Hall continue to expand its services, which include support groups, workshops and social events aimed at fostering veterans' well-being and connection. “We believe deeply in Patriots' Hall’s mission to honor and support our veterans,” said Kristen Rummel, Charitable Giving Committee chair for Dripping Springs Elite. “This donation is just a small way for us to show our appreciation for the service and sacrifices made by the brave men and women who reside in and around our community. We are proud to support this incredible organization and look forward to seeing the continued positive impact they will have.” Patriots' Hall of Dripping Springs, which officially opened on Wednesday, Sept. 5. For more information on how to get involved with Patriots' Hall of Dripping Springs or to make a donation, visit www.PatriotsHall.org.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — The Hell Country Haunt, put on by Hell Country Productions Inc., takes place every Friday and Saturday in October as a fundraiser for the Burke Center for Youth in Driftwood. Aaron Sulser, founder of Hell Country Productions Inc., is a lifelong fan of Halloween and haunted houses. Growing up in the Midwest, his mother would decorate elaborate set-ups for trick-or-treaters during the month of October. When Sulser then moved to California as an adult, his love for Halloween did not dissipate. He began setting up backyard haunts for neighbors, which only got bigger when he moved to Texas. “The problem was that it got too big because we started having people from other neighborhoods kind of coming in,” said Sulser, who approached the city of Dripping Springs with a plan for a local haunted house in 2021. “When I found out about the Burke Center, that was kind of perfect because then I could kind of honor her memory with inspiring me for Halloween and all the haunted house stuff and then, also donate to a charity.” Since 2021, the Hell Country Haunt has only grown. Partnering with the city and the Dripping Springs Ranch Park, the Haunt donates about 30% of the proceeds to the Burke Center, which is a nonprofit organization that benefits boys in foster care. According to its website, the center provides “therapeutic experiences and treatment services at the ranch to young men and boys from all parts of Texas. The Burke Center also provides Foster and Adoption services to over 100 Texas children annually.” Because of its charity status, the Haunt runs on volunteers. It offers service hours to local high school students who help out during setup, as well as during the nights when the Haunt is running. Sulser said that they are always looking for actors and volunteers for running the Haunt throughout the month of October. Looking to the future of the Haunt, Sulser stated that he wants it to stay much like it is: a small, local haunted house for Dripping Springs and the surrounding community. “I know it sounds cheesy, but when I stand at the back door and watch people come out, their experiences are like my payment. When I see them, they're screaming, but then they're laughing,” said Sulser. “Some of them, they keep crying, unfortunately, but a lot of them, when I see them laughing, to be able to give them something like that, you can't just do that in your normal job.” The Hell Country Haunt runs from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday in October at the Dripping Springs Ranch Park. A new feature added this year is “Blackout Hour,”— only available on Oct. 19 and 26. This is an hour that starts at 11 p.m. where all the lights in the Haunt are turned off and guests can only use the glow stick they are given to get through it. Tickets for the Haunt are available now online or can be purchased the day of. Blackout Hour tickets are only available while at the Haunt. “The people that have come out, and they come out every year, I want to thank them for being loyal,” said Sulser. “And then everybody that helps, even if it's nailing one board together, it's one less board I've got to do.” To buy tickets or to volunteer, visit the Hell Country Haunt’s instagram page (@hellcountryhaunt) or go to its website at www.hellcountryhaunt.com .

Sophia Howard enjoys authentic food with her father, Hunter Howard, at the Fiesta del Barrio at Dripping Springs Methodist Church.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — With goals of increasing exposure for artists and educating the community, The Dripping Springs Art League (DSAL) and the city’s Parks & Community Services Department will hold three downtown art markets this fall. “We’ll have artists ranging from relatively new to those with gallery presence, bringing a wide array of art including painting, metalwork, jewelry, fiber, sculptures, glasswork, ceramics and more,” said DSAL President Steve Friedman. “It’s a great opportunity to collaborate with the city in bringing more art to the community. We love to provide local artists a chance to share their talents with a broader audience. We’ll also have an information booth where folks can learn more about our classes, workshops and clubs.” The markets will be open to all artists, though members of the league will receive a discount. To learn more about membership and the DSAL, visit www.artindripping.com or on Instagram @drippingspringsartleague or reach out to Friedman at DSArtLeague.President@gmail.com. In support of the DSAL, Dripping Springs Farmers Market Manager Charlie Reed with the Parks & Community Services Department will be rallying a few food and beverage vendors to complement the art offerings: “A lot of our makers are artists in their own right, with the difference being that we eat and drink their creations instead of hanging them on a wall.” Reed added that there will be musicians performing, including local legend Alex Dormont closing out the first market. The Saturday markets will be held monthly from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 5, Nov. 9 and Dec. 14 at Veterans Memorial Park, also known as The Triangle, at 150 E. Mercer Street, in Dripping Springs. For more information, contact the Dripping Springs Farmers Market at farmersmarket@cityofdrippingsprings.com.

WIMBERLEY — The Wimberley Valley Art League’s annual studio tour will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 29. Hill Country artists will welcome visitors and collectors into their private studios, located in and around Wimberley, featuring art and a glimpse into the artist’s creative process. Artwork will range from oil, acrylic, fiber, metal and paper to sculpture, assemblage, photography, jewelry ceramic and more. Featured on the tour are Peggy Weiss, Kathy Utts, Jim Street, Warren Cullar, Shelley Esser, Jeff and Leigh Peterson, Diane Lunow and Trisha McWaters. In the studio with McWaters will be visiting artists Billielee Mommer, Martha Gibson and Jan Fitzhugh. The tour is free of charge and self-guided. Studio maps and additional information are available at www.wimberleyvalleyartleague.org.

A Dripping Springs High School competitor does a butterfly stroke at the Springs Family YMCA during the intra-squad meet, the Tiger Pentathlon, held on Thursday, Sept. 19 by the school’s swimming & diving team to prepare for the upcoming season. The Tigers will compete in the District 26-6A Sprint Classic on Friday, Sept. 27 at Westlake High School.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — After a series of workshops, Dripping Springs City Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2024-25 fiscal year municipal budget, along with setting the tax rate at $0.1794. at its Sept. 17 meeting. The consolidated general fund — which includes the city, parks, Founders Day and eclipse (2024) — expenditures total $14,707,607.04, while the revenue totals $15,101,619.09, according to budget documents. The balance forward is $394,012.04. Other components in the budget outside of the general fund include the following: • Dripping Springs Farmers Market: $89,012.58 in expenditures; $118,535.39 in revenue • Landscaping: $27,300 in expenditures; $509,067.700 in revenue • Sidewalk: $29,000 in expenditures; $29,828.96 in revenue • Dripping Springs Ranch Park: $1,221,585.50 in expenditures; $1,263,278.69 in revenue • Hotel Occupancy Tax: $1,194,007 in expenditures; $1,533,459.95 in revenue • Visitors Bureau: $507,681.89 in expenditures; $698,323.83 in revenue • Consolidated utility: $27,663,699.84 in expenditures; $33,897,472 in revenue • TWDB (Texas Water Development Board): $21,005,000 in expenditures; $21,005,926.24 in revenue • Impact fund: $670,405.60 in expenditures; $897,770.61 in revenue • Tax Increment Investment Zone 1: $231,500 in expenditures; $706,841.05 in revenue • Tax Increment Investment Zone 2: $136,500 in expenditures; $2,962,588.28 in revenue Debt service • 2015: $684,900.76 in expenditures; $1,551,040.16 in revenue • 2013: $88,487.50 in expenditures; $235,796.54 in revenue • 2019: $1,043,533.00 in expenditures; $1,123,641.63 in revenue • 2022: $1,191,768.50 in expenditures; $1,195,168.50 in revenue The council also unanimously voted to set the ad valorem tax rate at $0.1794 per $100 of assessed valuation, which is an increase from the current rate of $0.1718. According to the ordinance approved by the council, the tax rate will raise more taxes for maintenance and operations than last year’s rate. It will effectively be raised by 5.41% and will raise taxes for maintenance and operations on a $100,000 home by approximately $9.20, the ordinance stated. To view budget documents, visit www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/city-treasurer/pages/budget-tax-rate . Council will meet next on Tuesday, Oct. 1.

SAN MARCOS — According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is among the leading causes of death in the United States, with more than 49,000 occurring in 2022, though, these numbers do not begin to reach the depth of this occurrence. For every suicide, there were 11 emergency department visits for self-harm, 52 self-reported suicide attempts and 336 individuals that seriously considered suicide, said the CDC. For Suicide Prevention Month, co-founders of the Hays-Caldwell Suicide Prevention Coalition and a representative from the Hill Country Mental Health and Development Disabilities Centers discussed the importance of suicide education. Kenneth Elliott, co-founder of the Hays-Caldwell Suicide Prevention Coalition and licensed therapist and counselor, began the organization with former senior living professional Jewel Jankas when the pair noticed the increase of mental health struggles. “In the past three or four years, more and more people are struggling with their emotional and mental health and when the pandemic hit, there was a big spike in concerns over suicidal thoughts and suicidal attempts. Those of us working in the field thought that that might have been a temporary boost in those numbers, but they continue to go up,” said Elliott. Elliott noted that the highest rate of suicide is for those aged 85 and higher; a fact that Jankas corroborated. As a senior living professional, Jankas realized that many older adults, especially after receiving a life-altering diagnosis, simply did not want to be a burden to their families: “From what I have experienced, they don’t want to go through whatever that diagnosis is. They’ve seen [the disease] through friends, family, loved ones, maybe their parents. Alzheimer’s is one diagnosis that has been in the forefront of a lot of discussions about suicide, but it’s any diagnosis to where they feel that they are not going to be themselves.” Citing a book by Dr. Thomas Joyner, Elliott stated that one of the biggest factors of suicide is individuals feeling as though they are a hinderance to the lives of the people they love, as well as isolation. This feeling does not only apply to those who are older, Elliott emphasized, revealing that he has spoken to children with suicidal thoughts that feel the same way. In fact, Hill Country MHDD Director of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic and Suicide Prevention Lee Ann Lindroth stated that the LGBTQIA+ population, specifically the youth, are at a higher risk for suicidal ideation and attempts. Although the statistics of suicide are high, it's important to note that there are several ways to support a loved one who is facing these thoughts, find resources and prevent these numbers from rising. There are actively 2,522 individuals being served by Hill Country MHDD, 574 of which have been served in a time of active crisis, said Lindroth. “Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts are a product of intense psychological pain,” Lindroth explained. “It is rarely the case that an individual who is considering suicide wants to die. Instead, they may see it as the only way to stop the pain that they are experiencing. Suicide prevention and intervention is often about buying enough time to create conditions for the individual to see another path to relief.” There are several observations that may reveal that someone is thinking of suicide, said Elliott, including the following: • Direct statements, such as “I wish I were dead” or “I’m going to end it all.” • Indirect statements, such as “I’m tired of life,” “What’s the use of going on?” and “You would be better off without me.” • Behavior clues could include stockpiling pills, putting personal or business affairs in order, making funeral plans, sudden interest or disinterest in church or religion, relapse in alcohol or drug use after a period of recovery, giving away prized possessions and more. • Situational clues include: loss of or perceived rejection from a loved one; unwanted separation or divorce; death of a spouse, child or friend; rapid decline in health or a diagnosis of terminal illness; and more. The most support someone can show a loved-one experiencing this pain is through listening, said the professionals. “Lecturing, scolding or advice giving might be met with resistance to talk or shutting down altogether,” said Elliott. “Instead, take your time, listen as non-judgmentally as possible and let the person know that you care, that they matter and you would like to help them get the help and support they need.” Similarly, Lindroth stated that finding what could still connect this individual to life and a way to support it is important. Options of support could be setting up an appointment with Hill Country MHDD or any counseling service, calling Hill Country MHDD at 877-466-0660, texting HOME to 741741 for a crisis text line or dialing 988. According to Elliott, in the two years of service, 10 million people have dialed 988 for support and help. Other ways to aid in suicide prevention is by actively being involved in community groups, whether this be volunteer groups, a faith-based organization or simply attending events to find a support group. A positive support group and environment can help prevent isolation and hopelessness, Elliott said. “Please reach out,” stressed Elliott about hesitation in asking for help. “There’s a large number of people that want to make a difference, care to make a difference. There’re resources; there’s support.” For those interested in learning more about suicide prevention, the Hays-Caldwell Suicide Prevention Coalition offers a free class titled “QPR,” which is Question, Persuade and Refer suicide prevention. There are no education or experience requirements for the course; it is offered to all individuals, said Elliott. To sign up, email ccspc2022@gmail.com. Hill Country MHDD also offers community training and courses, which can be found at www.hillcountry.org. “If one person’s life has been positively impacted by our efforts, it’s all worthwhile,” concluded Elliott. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

SAN ANTONIO — The Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA) has declared Stage 4 Critical Period Management for Edwards groundwater permit holders in the San Antonio Pool of the EAA’s jurisdiction, including Atascosa, Bexar, Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe, Hays and Medina counties, based on declining aquifer conditions effective Wednesday, Sept. 18. That day, the Comal Springs 10-day rolling average was at 99 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is within the Stage 4 threshold for the EAA Critical Period Management Plan (CPM). EAA CPM Stage 4 for the San Antonio Pool reduces the annual authorized withdrawal amounts available to affected Edwards groundwater permit holders by 40%. These reductions apply to all Edwards Aquifer groundwater permit holders authorized to pump more than three acre-feet annually, a news release stated. This includes industrial and agricultural users, as well as water utilities authorized to pump water from the Edwards Aquifer for delivery to its respective customers. All affected permit holders must also report their pumping totals to the EAA on a monthly basis. Residents and businesses within those counties who receive their water from a public water system should follow their respective water provider's directives regarding water use practices. The EAA does not enforce lawn watering activities or other general water limitations beyond the curtailment of withdrawals from the Edwards Aquifer, according to the release; any enforcement of such activities or limitations is enforced by a municipality.

DRIPPING SPRINGS — After a series of workshops, Dripping Springs City Council unanimously voted to adopt the 2024-25 fiscal year municipal budget, along with setting the tax rate at $0.1794. at its Sept. 17 meeting. The consolidated general fund — which includes the city, parks, Founders Day and eclipse (2024) — expenditures total $14,707,607.04, while the revenue totals $15,101,619.09, according to budget documents. The balance forward is $394,012.04. Other components in the budget outside of the general fund include the following: • Dripping Springs Farmers Market: $89,012.58 in expenditures; $118,535.39 in revenue • Landscaping: $27,300 in expenditures; $509,067.700 in revenue • Sidewalk: $29,000 in expenditures; $29,828.96 in revenue • Dripping Springs Ranch Park: $1,221,585.50 in expenditures; $1,263,278.69 in revenue • Hotel Occupancy Tax: $1,194,007 in expenditures; $1,533,459.95 in revenue • Visitors Bureau: $507,681.89 in expenditures; $698,323.83 in revenue • Consolidated utility: $27,663,699.84 in expenditures; $33,897,472 in revenue • TWDB (Texas Water Development Board): $21,005,000 in expenditures; $21,005,926.24 in revenue • Impact fund: $670,405.60 in expenditures; $897,770.61 in revenue • Tax Increment Investment Zone 1: $231,500 in expenditures; $706,841.05 in revenue • Tax Increment Investment Zone 2: $136,500 in expenditures; $2,962,588.28 in revenue Debt service • 2015: $684,900.76 in expenditures; $1,551,040.16 in revenue • 2013: $88,487.50 in expenditures; $235,796.54 in revenue • 2019: $1,043,533.00 in expenditures; $1,123,641.63 in revenue • 2022: $1,191,768.50 in expenditures; $1,195,168.50 in revenue The council also unanimously voted to set the ad valorem tax rate at $0.1794 per $100 of assessed valuation, which is an increase from the current rate of $0.1718. According to the ordinance approved by the council, the tax rate will raise more taxes for maintenance and operations than last year’s rate. It will effectively be raised by 5.41% and will raise taxes for maintenance and operations on a $100,000 home by approximately $9.20, the ordinance stated. To view budget documents, visit www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/city-treasurer/pages/budget-tax-rate . Council will meet next on Tuesday, Oct. 1.