Message from the City Manager

 

December 13, 2024

The City Council met on December 10th for its last meeting of 2024. At that meeting, several impactful decisions were made. Below is a recap of the approved items:​

• Approval of the SAFER Grant Application

 The City Manager was authorized to apply for the SAFER Grant, which, if awarded, will provide full funding for six Firefighter/EMT/Paramedics for three years. This initiative will enhance the Fire Department's staffing and operational capacity, particularly at Station 2, ensuring compliance with national safety standards while addressing the needs of a growing population​.

• Funding Support for the Hill Country Humane Society

Recognizing the importance of animal welfare, the Council approved funding support for the replacement of the failing septic system at the Hill Country Humane Society. This collaborative effort reflects the City's dedication to supporting community partners, and the vital service provided by the Humane Society.

• Purchase of 1560 Four-In-One Reel Trailer

The Council approved the purchase of a 1560 Four-In-One Reel Trailer for the Electric Department. This equipment will improve efficiency in handling and deploying electrical wire, enhancing service reliability across the City​.

• Appointments to the Planning and Zoning Commission

The Council reappointed Caleb Williams and Glen Gates to the Planning and Zoning Commission and appointed Lee Carney to fill a vacancy. These appointments reaffirm the City’s commitment to experienced leadership in guiding growth and development​.

• Adoption of the 2024 Water Conservation Plan

The Council approved Resolution No. R2024-88, adopting the updated 2024 Water Conservation Plan. This plan outlines the City’s ongoing and future water conservation strategies, ensuring compliance with state mandates and promoting sustainable water management.

• Approval of the Planned Unit Development (PUD) for 402 and 404 North Water Street

The Council approved Ordinance No. 2024-50, reclassifying the entire block located at 402 and 404 North Water Street as Planned Unit Development District No. 2024-01. The PUD allows for a convenience store with gasoline and alcohol sales, establishing specific setbacks, lighting standards, and vegetative buffers to ensure compatibility with the surrounding area. The approval demonstrates the City's focus on balancing growth with neighborhood considerations​.

• Approval of Plat and Variances for The Reserve at Burnet Subdivision

The Council granted variances for The Reserve at Burnet Subdivision, enabling the development of 85 residential lots while preserving natural features such as granite outcroppings and significant trees. These variances were necessary to allow approval of the preliminary plat, which was also approved at the same meeting.

• Adoption of Height Limitation Amendments

The Council adopted amendments to increase the maximum height limitations in commercial zones from 35 feet to 55 feet. This change supports efficient land use and economic growth while considering fire safety requirements​.

• Approval of Alcohol Sales Zoning Amendments

An ordinance was approved to establish a table of use for alcohol sales, aligning zoning requirements with Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission permits. This change provides clarity for applicants and City staff and ensures compliance with zoning laws.

I encourage residents to stay involved by attending Council meetings. City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Finally, with Christmas right around the corner, I want to remind everyone that all City offices will be closed on December 24 and 25.

December 6, 2024

The City of Burnet recently conducted a FlashVote survey to understand how residents currently receive City information and their preferences for future communications. (If you didn’t participate in the survey, keep reading to learn how you can be part of the next one!) With input from over 200 participants, the survey revealed several key insights that will shape how the City connects with the community moving forward.

Residents identified the City’s website and social media pages as the primary sources for staying informed, with utility bill inserts and local newspaper stories also serving as valuable tools. When asked about their preferred methods of communication, email emerged as the clear favorite, with a majority indicating they would also appreciate text message updates. Many respondents expressed a desire for weekly updates.

The topics most important to residents include information about special events and programs, City services and projects, and updates on road construction. Suggestions for improvement centered on creating a consistent email newsletter, enhancing digital communication, and ensuring timely updates about key initiatives such as infrastructure projects and community events.

In response to this feedback, the City is taking steps to refine its communication strategies. Plans include expanding email outreach, exploring the implementation of text notifications, and increasing the frequency of updates on the City’s website and other platforms. These plans will be supported by the introduction of a new website, which will allow residents to sign up for email and text updates and indicate specific topics they are interested in receiving information about.

In addition to the set questions and answer choices, the survey included opportunities for open-ended responses. Every comment submitted has been carefully reviewed by City staff and taken to heart, even those unrelated to the survey’s primary topic of communication. For instance, one resident suggested adding a drive-up utility payment drop box to make bill payments more convenient. We’re excited to share that plans are being finalized for the new City Hall to include this feature, ensuring residents can drop off their payments without having to leave their cars.

While the City is pleased with participation in this first FlashVote survey, it aims to increase the number of residents providing feedback. Don’t miss your chance to take part in the next Citywide survey! Sign up now at www.flashvote.com/burnettx to ensure your voice is heard. It only takes a minute to sign up and just a minute to participate in future surveys. Let your opinion help shape the future of Burnet!

The use of survey data to inform actions highlights the City’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections with residents by providing information and updates that best meet their needs and preferences.

 

December 2, 2024

With Thanksgiving having fallen on the latest possible date this year, the time between it and Christmas is the shortest it can be, meaning holiday festivities are in full swing. Between Mrs. Claus, caroling, free hot chocolate, and cookie decorating, the lighting of the Square was the perfect kickoff to the Christmas season—but wait, there’s more!

The holiday magic continues with the Holiday Trail of Lights, running from November 30 to January 1, providing a stunning backdrop for the season. Main Street Bethlehem returns December 6-8 and December 13-15, offering an immersive nativity experience.

On December 14, Burnet’s Christmas on the Square Festival delivers a full day of excitement with over 175 vendors, live entertainment, a parade, and a free Kids’ Zone featuring pony rides, a petting zoo, and more. Photos with Santa and a bicycle raffle add to the festivities. That evening, Main Street Bethlehem and Christmas at Old Fort Croghan provide unique opportunities to experience the season’s charm, with luminarias and costumed re-enactors bringing to life a nostalgic pioneer Christmas.

With dazzling lights, festive parades, and unique traditions, Burnet is the perfect place to celebrate the season and create lasting memories. For a complete schedule of all the festivities, visit www.burnetchamber.org/christmas-in-burnet.

In other news, the Burnet Fire Department has successfully completed a comprehensive audit conducted by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), showcasing its commitment to excellence in emergency medical services (EMS). Through this rigorous evaluation, DSHS reviewed critical aspects of EMS operations, including licensing compliance, equipment readiness, personnel training, patient care documentation, and adherence to state and federal guidelines.

The department not only met but exceeded expectations, earning high praise for its exceptional patient care, well-trained staff, and operational efficiency. The audit serves as an essential benchmark, ensuring the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of EMS services. Thank you to the Burnet Fire Department for their ongoing dedication to the safety and well-being of our community.

In closing, with the 89th Legislative Session kicking off on January 14, 2024, City staff will actively participate in a pre-legislative webinar and a meeting of Hill Country Mayors and City Managers in December to learn about and discuss issues critical to municipalities during this legislative session. This legislative session will address numerous topics of significance to municipalities across the state, with key issues expected to include Land Use, Public Safety and Emergency Management, Property Tax, Sales Tax, Finance, Utilities and Environment, and Community and Economic Development. These engagements will provide valuable insights and ensure Burnet’s priorities are well-represented during the 89th Legislative Session.

 

November 25, 2024

In the short time since the City Council approved the purchase of Cellebrite, a software that allows law enforcement to extract, analyze, and recover data from cellphones—including deleted or encrypted information—for forensic and investigative purposes, it has already delivered impressive results with the initial phones analyzed. The software has enabled full file extractions on all devices and the recovery of deleted files, proving critical in solving criminal cases that would have been impossible to resolve through manual searches. Its capabilities significantly surpass previous methods. The partnership with Marble Falls was instrumental in making this tool a reality. This technology is expected to bring justice to victims in vulnerable populations and help protect others from victimization.

The City of Burnet is clearly on a growth trajectory. At a recent meeting, the City Council approved a Developer Participation Agreement with Meritage Homes of Texas, LLC, to extend water and sewer infrastructure for the upcoming Creekfall Subdivision Phase Three. This agreement supports the City’s development goals by enabling shared costs to enhance public infrastructure for future needs. Meritage Homes will build 115 new homes in Creekfall Phase Three. Meanwhile, DR Horton has already begun construction in Creekfall Phases One and Two, with 135 homes planned, and Langley Homes will add 46 new homes in Westfall Phase Three.

To accommodate and plan for this growth, City staff dedicate countless hours to planning utilities and infrastructure to meet the needs of future residents, ensuring Burnet is prepared for its expanding community.

On the City of Burnet website (www.cityofburnet.com), there is a link at the bottom of the page for GIS Maps. GIS stands for Geographic Information System, and while the public view does not include all features used by the City (e.g., layers showing the location of City-maintained infrastructure, such as water lines, wastewater facilities, stormwater systems, and other utilities), it remains a very informative tool.

The City of Burnet’s public GIS site offers a range of valuable features for citizens. This interactive tool provides access to detailed mapping and spatial information relevant to properties and services throughout Burnet.

Key features accessible to the public include:

• Property Information: View property boundaries, parcel details, and ownership information—useful for residents, real estate professionals, and prospective buyers.
• Zoning Maps: Check zoning designations to see permitted land uses and development regulations for specific areas.
• Public Facilities and Amenities: Locate public parks, city buildings, schools, and other municipal amenities easily.
• Floodplain Information: Access floodplain overlays to understand flood risks and evaluate the need for flood insurance.
• Contour Maps: View detailed contour maps displaying elevation changes and topographical information for construction, landscaping, or property-related planning.

In addition to the different map layers, the GIS site also features interactive measurement tools that allow users to measure distances and areas and determine the specific latitude and longitude of selected points on the map.

The GIS site is a convenient resource for anyone looking to better understand their surroundings, make informed property decisions, or engage with city planning efforts. This tool reflects Burnet's commitment to transparency and community engagement by providing easy access to valuable City data.

 

November 18, 2024

The City of Burnet has been recognized for its fire protection excellence, receiving a Class 02/2X rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO), placing it among the top-rated cities in Texas and nationwide for fire readiness. The rating, announced on November 1, was presented to the City Council at a recent meeting. The ISO rating scale ranges from 1 to 10, with 1 being the highest classification, and only a small percentage of fire departments in the country achieve such a high rating. According to 2023 ISO data, only 11.2% of fire departments in Texas received a Class 2 rating, and nationally, just 5.2% of departments hold this distinction. Burnet stands out as one of 323 departments in Texas and 2,004 nationwide to receive the Class 2 rating. This achievement underscores Burnet’s commitment to public safety and solidifies the City’s status as a leader in fire protection.

Additionally, City officials provided an update on road maintenance efforts. With approximately 45 miles of roads in the City, nearly half have been improved through dedicated maintenance and rehabilitation over the past two years. These efforts have boosted the City’s Remaining Service Life (RSL)—a key measure for assessing road quality—from a score of 8.1 in 2022 to 12.2 in 2024. The City is working toward an RSL goal of 15, and additional projects are planned for the spring and summer to continue enhancing road conditions.

At the same City Council meeting, members unanimously approved several ordinances aimed at strengthening city policies and enhancing city facilities. One key ordinance addresses cybersecurity by banning certain applications, including TikTok, on City-owned devices and personal devices used for City business. This policy, aligned with state mandates, aims to protect against security risks and includes procedures for app management, as well as oversight and disciplinary measures for policy violations.

The Council also approved Ordinance No. 2024-47, updating zoning classifications to ensure properties are appropriately designated in line with current uses and surrounding areas. The changes, recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission, include:

• 902, 904, 906, and 908 Lewis Drive: Reclassified from Light Commercial (C-1) to Duplex (R-2)
• 1000 and 1001 Lewis Drive, 807 Mildred Avenue: Reclassified from Light Commercial (C-1) to Duplex (R-2)
• 700 Janet Drive: Reclassified from Medium Commercial (C-2) to Neighborhood Commercial (NC)
• 608 E. Washington Street: Reclassified from Medium Commercial (C-2) to Neighborhood Commercial (NC)

These zoning updates promote consistent and suitable land use, demonstrating the city’s focus on responsible planning.

In other business, the Council approved an extension for CareFlite’s Site and Design Plans submission deadline as part of a 40-year Ground Lease Agreement. Originally set for September 29, 2024, the deadline has now been moved to December 15, 2024, allowing additional time for planning on the 0.972-acre site at the Burnet airport.

Finally, the Council greenlit an agreement with CNC Pro AV to enhance the audiovisual capabilities in the new City Hall complex. The approved system will support communication across Council chambers, conference rooms, and offices, featuring high-definition displays, ceiling microphones, audio amplification, and integrated network solutions. This upgrade aims to improve resident and stakeholder engagement by facilitating seamless streaming and meeting access.

These initiatives highlight Burnet’s focus on public safety, technological upgrades, and responsible planning, reinforcing its dedication to the community’s needs.

 

November 11, 2024

The Department of Development Services plays a key role in maintaining Burnet's growth and development standards. Its purpose is to ensure that all new construction, renovations, and land developments adhere to City codes, zoning laws, and safety guidelines. Through various permits, inspections, and plan reviews, the department helps to create a safe, well-planned, and attractive community for all residents.

The Development Services Office oversees three key areas:

1. Planning and Zoning

The office ensures that new developments are compatible with Burnet’s long-term vision. This involves managing zoning to align with land use goals and providing guidelines for residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

2. Permitting

Before construction or renovation projects begin, they must go through the permitting process to verify compliance with City standards. The Development Services Office issues building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits to ensure that all development meets safety and quality requirements. This process protects property owners and the community from potential hazards associated with unregulated building practices.

3. Inspections

After permits are issued, inspections are conducted to verify that construction aligns with approved plans and code requirements. Inspectors work closely with builders and contractors to uphold standards, performing evaluations at various project stages.

The number one question asked by home and property owners is, “Do I need a permit?” In many cases, yes—a permit is required for projects that involve structural work, electrical installations, plumbing, or other significant alterations. Permits allow the City to verify that work meets safety standards and complies with Burnet’s building codes. They are necessary to ensure that completed projects are safe, durable, and within the City’s guidelines.

Projects That Require Permits

Some common projects that require a permit include, but are not limited to:

• Decks/Patio Covers
• Accessory Structures (storage sheds over 120 square feet, gazebos, carports)
• Roof Replacement
• Remodels/Additions (including garages and re-roofs)
• Swimming Pools/Spas
• Irrigation Systems
• Water Heaters & Water Softeners
• HVAC Change-Outs
• Any Structural Changes

Projects That Do Not Require Permits

Some projects that can be completed without a permit include:

• House Painting
• Carpet Installation
• New Cabinets and Countertops
• Window Replacement
• Fences (although it’s recommended to review the City’s fencing guidelines for proper height and placement)

If you’re uncertain whether your project requires a permit, it’s best to check with Development Services. This can help save you time, money, and avoid any potential compliance issues. Contact Development Services at 512-715-3206 for more information or to verify permit requirements. When it's time to apply for a permit, the process is automated and can be initiated at www.MGOConnect.org.

 

November 4, 2024

 

October 28, 2024

At the most recent Burnet City Council meeting, Chief of Police Brian Lee presented the Police Department's quarterly report, detailing key activities and achievements from July through September 2024. The report highlighted a busy period for the department, with a total of 1,762 calls for service and 1,890 traffic stops. During this time, the department made 119 arrests, issued 277 citations, and gave 936 warnings. Additionally, officers completed 194 reports, while the Criminal Investigations Division managed 19 assigned cases. The department also conducted 3,910 close patrols and security checks to maintain community safety.

A notable highlight from the report was the participation of two Burnet Police Department sergeants, Sgt. Besancon and Sgt. Edwards, in the United Kingdom Police Memorial Week. This event, similar to Police Week in the United States, honors officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Sgt. Besancon and Sgt. Edwards not only attended but also participated in the ceremonies, including the formal parade leading into the event. They had the unique opportunity to meet Yvette Cooper, the Secretary of State for the Home Department of the United Kingdom, who is responsible for overseeing the UK's National Security Council and the Security Service.  Sgt. Besancon and Sgt. Edwards presented a commemorative plaque to the Council in recognition of United Kingdom Police Memorial Week. The Council expressed their appreciation for the department's ongoing commitment to serving the community.

At the same meeting, the Council approved a transition from the Sig P320 Pro model to the Staccato P as the new duty weapon for the Burnet Police Department and Fire Marshal. This decision follows concerns about recent incidents involving accidental discharges of the Sig P320 in Texas and other states. After thorough research and testing of alternative options, the Staccato P was selected for its safety features and performance.  The new Staccato P handguns will be deployed after the officers complete their transition training, ensuring a smooth and effective switch to the new duty weapon.

Mark your calendars for an upcoming free microchip clinic! The City of Burnet, in collaboration with the Hill Country Humane Society (HCHS) and the Burnet County Sheriff's Office Animal Control, will host the clinic at Haley Nelson Park on November 16th, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

City of Burnet residents can receive free microchips for their pets, provided by the City (with proof of residency). Residents of unincorporated Burnet County can also obtain free microchips through the Sheriff's Office (with proof of residency). Additionally, HCHS will offer microchips for $10 to all other attendees.

Microchipping your pets is an important step in preventing lost pets and reducing the strain on our local animal shelter, helping to keep it from reaching capacity.

A second clinic is scheduled at the Fairgrounds on December 14th, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., though HCHS will not be available on that date due to other commitments.

In closing, I want to inform you about an upcoming change to the speed limit in the City of Burnet. The Burnet City Council has approved an ordinance to establish new speed limits on State Highway 29 within the city limits, following recommendations from an engineering and traffic study conducted by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). These changes aim to enhance road safety for drivers traveling through the eastern section of the highway, generally between Creekfall Road and County Road 250.

The study conducted by TxDOT determined that reducing the speed limit from 65 mph to 55 mph on certain stretches of the highway would improve overall traffic safety. Based on these findings, the ordinance introduces adjusted speed limits for both eastbound and westbound traffic on specific sections of Highway 29, along with penalties for violations. Enforcement will begin once the new speed limit signs are installed.

October 21, 2024

We hope you can join us for Boo-tiques & Brews on the Historic Square! This family-friendly event will take place on Thursday, October 24th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Parents can bring their children to trick-or-treat around the Square, with local shops offering fun prizes. Kids will also enjoy new Halloween decorations, ranging from spooky to playful, unveiled just in time for Boo-tiques & Brews. Adults can take part in the festivities by enjoying a brew. Don’t miss out on this exciting evening of fun for all ages!

Last week, the Burnet Fire Department conducted several educational sessions as part of Fire Prevention Week, which took place from October 7-13. More than 200 children were taught essential fire safety skills, such as how to use 911, the "stop, drop, and roll" technique, and how to safely exit a home by staying low to the floor. These sessions play a vital role in the department's ongoing efforts to promote safety and preparedness in the community.

On Saturday, October 12, the Municipal Court, in collaboration with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, hosted the RED (Reality Education for Drivers) program. This impactful program, attended by 11 young adults, is designed to promote responsible decision-making and foster healthy attitudes toward driving. Participants heard valuable testimonials from City of Burnet Municipal Court Judge and Chief Magistrate for Burnet County, Tamara Tinney, Sgt. Sean Stohlman of the Burnet Police Department, and Paramedic James Schuetz of the Hamilton County Hospital District EMS. Each attendee received educational materials and resources focused on traffic laws and safe driving practices that benefit both the participants and the broader community.

In closing, I want to encourage you to take about one minute a month to help make the City of Burnet even better. Starting Wednesday, October 23rd, Burnet residents located in areas not already represented on the survey panel may receive text messages from FlashVote, a public survey research platform. This partnership aims to engage our community and gather meaningful input to guide the City’s decisions. If you receive a text message from FlashVote, we highly encourage you to sign up.

You can also sign up here now: https://www.flashvote.com/burnettx or call 775-235-2240 to participate by phone or text only. Signing up takes less than a minute, and your feedback will remain anonymous. FlashVote ensures that any personal or demographic information collected will not be shared with the City or anyone else. Residents can choose how they want to receive surveys—whether by email, text, or phone call.

Once registered, you’ll receive a notification when the first survey is ready to be taken, and you’ll have 48 hours to participate before the survey closes. After each survey ends, you’ll automatically receive a summary of the results, allowing you to see how your responses compare with those of the group.

Please keep an eye out for text messages beginning October 23rd and be sure to sign up so you don’t miss the opportunity to participate in our first survey—coming soon!

 

October 14, 2024

The City of Burnet recently underwent a fire protection survey conducted by the Insurance Services Office (ISO), and I’m pleased to report that we have maintained our classification as a Public Protection Class 02/2X.  Less that 2% of cities nationwide receive an ISO rating of 2 or better.  This rating reflects the current resources dedicated to fire protection in our City, and it plays an important role in determining insurance rates for homes and businesses.

For those unfamiliar, an ISO rating is a score from 1 to 10 that measures how well a community is equipped to respond to fires. A rating of 1 represents top-tier fire protection, while a 10 indicates that the fire suppression efforts do not meet ISO’s minimum standards. The lower the ISO rating, the more potential there is for reduced insurance premiums, meaning our solid classification can help Burnet residents save money on their insurance.

This rating also serves as a vital tool for our Fire Department. It helps guide decisions around planning, budgeting, and identifying areas for improvement in our fire protection services. The classification reinforces how challenging it is to achieve a top rating of 1 or 2, and it also highlights the importance of continuing to invest in our public safety resources.

On that note, I’d like to remind everyone that the City Council recently approved the addition of four new personnel for the Fire Department as part of the 2024-2025 budget. This investment underscores our ongoing commitment to public safety and maintaining the high standards our community deserves. We are proud of the dedication and professionalism of our Fire Department and City Staff, and we will continue to seek ways to improve our fire protection services.

The City of Burnet’s Water Department has made a significant leap forward in improving our water management system by implementing new SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) technology. This cutting-edge system allows us to monitor and control the entire water distribution network in real time, ensuring faster responses to potential issues like leaks, pressure drops, or equipment malfunctions.

One of the biggest advantages of SCADA is its ability to help our City staff identify and address problems before they escalate, minimizing disruptions to water service. The system continuously tracks water quality indicators and optimizes the operation of pumps, valves, and other critical infrastructure. This ensures that we are delivering the highest quality water to our residents.

Beyond improving the reliability and safety of our water supply, SCADA also allows us to use resources more efficiently. By reducing operational costs and energy consumption, we’re able to create long-term savings for the City and its residents, all while maintaining a sustainable water supply for future generations. This investment underscores our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards for our city’s water services.

 

September 30, 2024

Do you have about one minute a month to help make Burnet better? The City Council and staff want to hear from you!

The City of Burnet is working with FlashVote to engage the community and gather valuable input from residents to inform our decisions. We encourage residents to sign up here now: https://www.flashvote.com/burnettx or call 775-235-2240 to participate by phone or text only.

Signing up takes less than one minute and your input is always kept anonymous. Personal or demographic information collected by FlashVote is never shared with the City or anyone else. When residents sign up, they can determine how surveys are received – whether by email, text or phone call. They will receive a notification whenever there is a new survey, and they will have 48 hours to participate before voting closes. Once a survey is closed, everyone who participated will automatically receive a summary of the overall results and be able to see how their responses compare to the group.

We’re very excited to use the input collected in these surveys to inform decision-making in the City in ways that serve our residents better. Sign up now so you don’t miss the first survey – coming soon!

Wallace Riddell Park and Pavilion will be getting an upgrade in the form of a new restroom facility. The City Council recently approved the purchase of a Denali with Chase model precast concrete restroom structure. This restroom will feature two single-user stalls, one for men and one for women. The exterior will have a distinctive design with simulated board and batten upper walls, textured rock lower walls, and a simulated cedar shake textured roof. Inside, the restroom will be equipped with durable stainless steel water closets and lavatories, baby changing tables, electronic faucets, and hand dryers. The facility will also include ADA-compliant drinking fountains and will have both interior and exterior lighting, enhancing its functionality and accessibility. The new restroom is expected to be delivered and installed by this upcoming March.

Finally, National Night Out, an annual event that fosters positive partnerships between law enforcement and community members, is set for October 1. This nationwide initiative brings neighbors and police officers together in a fun, relaxed environment, helping build stronger, safer communities.

Several neighborhoods across Burnet will be hosting events, and residents are encouraged to attend. Even if your neighborhood isn’t on the list, you’re welcome to join any of the gatherings below:

• Delaware Springs: 5:30-7:00 PM at the Golf Course Pavilion
• Highland Oaks: 6:00-7:30 PM near the front entrance
• Peppermill/Hills of Shady Grove/The Woodlands: 6:00-7:30 PM at Shady Grove Elementary School back parking lot

If you're interested in hosting a National Night Out event next year, contact the Burnet Police Department to get your neighborhood on the list! Reach them at 512-756-6404 or by email at police@cityofburnet.com.

Don't miss out on the chance to engage with your local community and law enforcement in a meaningful way!

 

September 13, 2024

Mason Cooley once said, "Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are." Thanks to the leadership of Darlene Denton and the support of the City Council, residents of Burnet will soon have more opportunities to embark on these literary journeys. Darlene has been instrumental in the placement of several free little libraries throughout our community. At a recent meeting, Council approved placing the next little library at Randy Longoria Park on East Live Oak.

Typically, the City Council meets twice a month on the second and fourth Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. However, due to holiday and training schedules, the Council has approved the cancellation of meetings on October 8th, November 16th, and December 24th. In addition to this scheduling change, the Council addressed several important issues.

First, Council approved the 2024-2025 budget and adopted the tax rate for the coming fiscal year. While the tax rate remains unchanged at $0.6131 per $100 valuation, the City expects an increase in ad valorem tax revenue to the general fund —approximately $439,000— due to new property additions and a decrease in the interest and sinking fund rate.

This budget aligns with the City Council's financial goals, which include maintaining a 90-day cash reserve, a 1.25 debt coverage ratio (meaning the City has $1.25 of revenue for every $1 of debt), and a general fund net profit of at least 3% of the operating budget. A new goal this year is to maintain a net operating profit of no less than 5% for all enterprise funds, which cover self-sustaining services like Delaware Springs Golf Course, electricity, and water/wastewater.

The budget also provides funding for key capital projects, the addition of four new Firefighter EMT positions, and a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for all City employees. There are also targeted increases for Parks and Golf maintenance workers to ensure they receive a livable wage. To maintain market competitiveness, Council approved additional pay increases for Firefighter EMTs and Police Officers, with starting salaries rising from $52,478 to $60,339 for Firefighter EMTs and from $64,168 to $70,000 for Police Officers.

To better reflect the cost of service, Council approved new bulk water sales rates, which will now vary based on drought stages. Rates for bulk water sales sold at Public Works range from $30 to $60 per thousand gallons. During Stage 4 drought conditions, bulk water sales are restricted to potable use and public health and safety.

Lastly, the Council formally opposed an application for a TCEQ Air Quality Standards Permit for a proposed rock and concrete crusher facility near FM 3509. Although the project is located outside the City in Burnet County, it is only a few miles from the City's golf course. The Council raised concerns about the potential impacts on community health and safety, including air quality degradation, increased groundwater usage during drought conditions, and the added truck traffic, which could lead to road deterioration and further air pollution.

As always, we appreciate your engagement and feedback as we work to make Burnet a great place to live, work, and play.

 

September 13, 2024

“On the Road Again” is a song written and recorded by Willie Nelson, but I probably didn’t need to tell you that. In fact, most people probably instantly had the tune come to mind when they read the song title. Maintaining City roads is a vital part of upkeeping the City of Burnet’s infrastructure and allowing residents to be on the road again.

While there is still plenty of work to be done, the City has begun to take a more strategic approach to ensure the 45 miles of roadways in the City are well-maintained and safe for residents. The process starts with evaluating the condition of the roads, which involves assessing various types of pavement distress, and determining the overall state of the roads and what kind of maintenance is needed.

There are several methods to evaluate road conditions, most of which focus on the current state of the pavement. However, the method preferred by the City is the Remaining Service Life (RSL) approach. This method is more informative because it focuses on how much life remains in the pavement rather than just its current condition. When a road's RSL falls below 10 years, rehabilitation costs, such as overlays or full-depth replacements, tend to increase significantly.

In 2021, Burnet undertook a comprehensive road assessment. At that time, the assessment showed that the average road in the City had a remaining lifespan of only 8 years. Given that a well-maintained road typically lasts over 20 years, this meant on average, Burnet’s roads had less than half of their expected life left.

To address this, the City invested approximately $5 million in road rehabilitation and maintenance over the last 2-3 years. This investment has led to the rehabilitation of over 11 miles of roads and preventative maintenance on an additional 10 miles. These efforts have paid off, as the overall condition of the roads has improved significantly. The average remaining lifespan has increased from 8 years to over 12 years. This improvement underscores the importance of preventative maintenance. It requires far less effort and money to maintain a road in good condition than to let it deteriorate to the point where major repairs are needed. In fact, for every $1 spent today to keep a road in good shape, the City can potentially avoid a $4-$6 expense 10 or more years down the road.

To support these efforts, the City uses computer software to monitor road conditions and recommend the appropriate types of improvements. After a road is reconstructed, this planning tool helps schedule the next round of preventative maintenance, with the goal of performing maintenance on each street once every 7 years.

Burnet’s approach to road management is a balanced one. While the City is committed to bringing every road to an acceptable condition, a significant portion of the effort will be directed towards preventative maintenance. As a sign of its ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving roadways throughout the City, the City Council recently approved the 2024-2025 budget which contains $3.8 million in funds for street improvements.

Finally, a significant street rehab process is currently underway that will assist with our RSL number. The following streets are being addressed, and the overall project is expected to be completed within the next 60 days.

The proposed overlay will consist of placing 2 inches of Hot Mix Asphalt Concrete (HMAC) over the existing pavement to extend the life of the road. Certain roads that are severely cracked will be both milled and overlayed. Milling will consist of removing the existing asphalt to expose the base material underneath, proof rolling, adding tack oil, and then going over with HMAC.

 

 

September 6, 2024

National Patriot Day, observed every September 11th, honors the memory of those who lost their lives in the 2001 terrorist attacks. I encourage all residents of the City of Burnet to display flags at their homes and join in a national moment of silence at 7:46 a.m. on this solemn day. As we remember the lives lost, we also pay tribute to the bravery of our first responders who continue to serve our community and many others across the nation.

In an important step towards continuing to enhance medical first responder services, the City of Burnet has introduced its newest ambulance, Medic 2, into service. This latest addition is a 2023 International CV515, custom-built by Frazer, a leading manufacturer of emergency service vehicles. The new ambulance reflects the City’s commitment to the health and safety of its citizens by providing cutting-edge technology for patient care.

Equipped with the most advanced patient care technology available, Medic 2 features a 5.5 kW generator, which allows the patient compartment to function independently from the truck's heating, cooling, and electrical systems. This innovative design ensures that the patient area remains fully operational even in the event of a mechanical issue with the truck chassis, providing a stable and reliable environment for critical care.

The introduction of this advanced ambulance reinforces Burnet's dedication to delivering high-quality emergency medical services, ensuring that residents receive prompt and effective care when it matters most.

Did you know that Burnet residents have four options to avoid credit card fees when paying their monthly utility bills? Payments made with cash, check, or a debit card in person at City Hall (1001 Buchanan Drive, Suite 4) are always free of charge. Checks can also be mailed or placed in the drop box at the front door of City Hall. The most convenient fee-free method is the bank draft option, where the City automatically withdraws the billed amount from your bank account. This offers a simple and cost-effective alternative to using a credit card.

To enroll in bank draft payments, residents need to complete a Bank Draft Request Form, available online at www.cityofburnet.com/utilities under "Utility Applications & Forms." The completed form can be submitted in person at City Hall or mailed to P.O. Box 1369, Burnet, Texas 78611. Once set up, the utility bill amount will be automatically deducted from the resident's bank account each month. This not only eliminates credit card fees, but also ensures timely payments, making bill management easier and more secure.

 

August 30, 2024

In the wake of the tragic Uvalde school shooting, Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) has become a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE)-mandated requirement for all officers every two years. I'm proud to say that Burnet PD was ahead of the curve, having already begun hosting this critical training well before the incident in Uvalde. We've since taken steps to further strengthen our capabilities by sending our officers to instructor schools, enabling us to independently train our own team as well as officers from other agencies.

Over two weekends in August, Burnet PD conducted training sessions that brought together BCISD Guardians, Burnet Police, Bertram Police, non-commissioned officers, and retirees who are maintaining their TCOLE licenses. These sessions incorporated the use of simunitions, allowing officers to engage in realistic scenarios designed to teach them how to respond effectively to an active shooter situation. This is just one of the ways we're intensifying our training efforts to better prepare and protect our community.

In preparation for the upcoming new fiscal year, the City is making two adjustments in utility billing to fully cover the cost of services provided, including increasing the credit card convenience fee and recalculating how the cost of lost power is recovered.

There is no doubt that credit cards provide convenience when making payments for goods and services, but as we all know, that convenience comes at a cost. The City of Burnet began charging a credit card processing fee for the first time in 2022, but that 2% fee falls short of covering the actual costs that credit card companies charge the City on every transaction. This gap has resulted in a loss to the City of approximately $80,000 in the current fiscal year. To address this issue, the City Council recently approved an increase in credit card processing fees. A 3% credit card processing fee will now be charged for City-provided utilities, golf course services and purchases, and other municipal fees. A 5% credit card processing fee will now be charged for Hotel Occupancy Taxes, municipal court fines and fees, building permits, and development service fees.

The City of Burnet purchases electricity for its residents from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), but did you know that the City never delivers or sells all of the electricity it buys each month to customers? This is due to power loss. As electricity flows through transmission lines, the resistance in the wires causes some of the electrical power to be converted into heat, resulting in a loss. In Burnet, this accounts for a 6.23% loss, or approximately $357,000 annually.

To address this issue, the City Council has approved revisions to the Purchased Power Cost Adjustment ordinance. Now, when calculating the monthly electrical rate, the City will use adjusted kilowatt-hours purchased—taking power loss into account—rather than the total amount of kilowatt-hours purchased. When I applied this change to my own July electricity bill, it increased by 3.6%, or $8.79 of the month of July.  Many people are surprised to learn that even with this small increase, power is cheaper today than it was 10 years ago.

Finally, mark your calendars to join us for Jackson Street Jams with a Selena Forever Tribute Band on September 7 at 8:30 p.m. Come out early for a Salsa-making contest, a Mariachi band, and Folklorico dancers. This free concert series on the downtown square features live music, food, dancing, and shopping opportunities at local downtown businesses.