Dear Hills Residents,
Below is a clear, resident-focused summary of key discussions and decisions from the January City Council meeting.
Public Safety & Law Enforcement
December Activity Report:
The Village recorded 131 total incidents, including:15 directed patrols
50 traffic stops
4 follow-up investigations
Overall safety remains strong, but deputies noted an increase in motorists rolling through stop signs and speeding, particularly at the three-way stop.
Improving Transparency:
The council is exploring moving from manual reporting to a digital system (Excel/CSV) to better track crime and traffic trends over time.Trespassing & Fishing Issues:
Deputies have responded to complaints involving non-residents fishing near the dam and pond, leaving behind trash and fishing hooks that pose risks to pets.Resident reminder:
For non-emergencies, call the Guard Shack, which can radio deputies directly.
For emergencies (open doors, alarms, immediate threats), always call 911.
Infrastructure & Future-Proofing
Google Fiber:
Google has confirmed progress toward construction in Lakeway, but there is no confirmed timeline yet for permitting or construction in The Hills.Lohman’s Crossing:
Council discussed installing conduit beneath the intersection during upcoming roadwork to future-proof the area for fiber optics.Water Management:
A high December irrigation bill was traced to a park water leak, which has now been repaired.
Parks, Recreation & Community
New Community Amenities:
“Take a Ball, Leave a Ball” container at the playground
A Free Little Library
Yappy Hour Returns:
The popular dog park event will resume Thursday nights.Pedestrian Gate Discussion:
A new Gatekeeping Committee (Sarah Carroll, Marty Khait, and Brittany Makoski) will coordinate with the POA on a proposal to lock pedestrian gates from dusk to dawn.
The Fire Chief confirmed this would not interfere with emergency access.
MUD & POA Updates
MUD Consolidation:
The MUD is preparing an FAQ section on its website regarding potential consolidation with the Village. Early findings suggest consolidation may not be in residents’ best interest at this time.POA Elections:
The POA Annual Meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 22 January, with five candidates competing for three board seats.New POA Management:
CCMC has been engaged as the new property management firm, effective 1 February.
City Administration & Business
2026 Scholarship Approved:
The council approved the Waste Connections Scholarship, awarding $1,000 to a graduating high school senior.Deadline: 1 April 2026
Judging: Blind review process to ensure fairness
Constable Contract:
Council is evaluating whether to hire a second full-time constable.Current overtime costs: ~$101,000
A full-time officer would be significantly more expensive per productive hour
No decision has been made yet.
Logo & Branding Protection:
An ordinance is being drafted to protect the Village logo and regulate its use on merchandise. An inventory is also underway to replace outdated signage.Meeting Schedule:
Regular City Council meetings will continue on the second Tuesday of every month at 9:00 a.m.
Looking Ahead
Wildfire Mitigation:
Council has requested wildfire preparedness planning be added to the next agenda, ahead of summer.Annual Audit:
The city audit begins on-site 26 January.
As always, The Hills Observer is committed to clear, factual reporting so residents can stay informed and engaged.
—The Hills Observer
Resident Reporter