⚠️ Important Disclaimer:
The following summary is based on available meeting proceedings. The recording of this meeting was interrupted and subsequently stopped due to internet connection issues. As such, this summary does not reflect the entire dialogue or all actions that may have occurred during the full session.
🏛️ Key Council Actions and Decisions
1. Adoption of Citywide Zoning Map
The Council approved an ordinance adopting a citywide zoning map, following the Zoning Commission’s recommendation. Edits suggested by Mayor Pro Tem Sarah were incorporated to include smaller green belts and fix a cut-off road. These adjustments align with the comprehensive zoning ordinance’s goal of ensuring existing uses remain automatically approved. ✅ Motion carried.
2. Bookkeeping Services Contract Ratified
The Council ratified a personal services agreement with Joy Shazima for bookkeeping services.
Weekly hours increased to 20 hours (due to upcoming audits and staff transitions).
Rate increased to $46/hour (+$2).
A new requirement mandates a summary of materials for each Council meeting.
✅ Motion carried.
3. City Council Onboarding Manual Adopted
A new onboarding document for council members and mayors was officially adopted. The manual includes key checklists and institutional knowledge. Future edits will make the cover letter come from Angie (Administration) for consistency. The Emergency Management Coordinator section may still require revision.
4. Welcome Committee Happy Hour Approved
The Council approved the Welcome Committee’s Happy Hour on October 21st, 2025, to greet new residents.
Replaces physical welcome baskets.
No cost to the city.
All residents are invited!
5. City Records Retention and Cloud Services
A contract with RCI Consultants (San Antonio) was discussed to organize, scan, and store city documents in the cloud.
$38 per box (~50 boxes = $1,900)
$300 annual iCloud access fee
Pending legal review by Josh to ensure compliance and data rights.
✅ Motion carried.
6. Outdoor Drinking Fountain Replacement
Discussion took place on replacing the City Park’s outdoor drinking fountain, which was not rated for outdoor use and has required repeated repairs. The Council requested staff to procure a durable outdoor-rated unit (possibly from TF Harper) before winter.
📋 Reports and Updates
Law Enforcement Report (September)
112 total incidents
36 traffic stops → 12 citations, 24 warnings
20 assists to residents
4 reckless driving cases
8 directed patrols
Parks & Recreation Report
Hills Fest was deemed a success 🎉 but noted higher spending per resident.
Future events may be scheduled away from ACL weekend to boost attendance.
The focus now shifts toward park stewardship activities.
Future Agenda Items
Review and update Angie’s contract.
Veterans Day recognition (including a proposed flag pole).
Formal recognition for Rick and Councilman Crawford.
Update on park drinking fountain installation progress.
🗳️ Election Corner: Make Your Voice Heard!
The Village of The Hills City Council elections are around the corner!
Your vote shapes the future of our community-whether it’s about city safety, parks, or how our government communicates with residents.
🕘 Early Voting Begins Soon
Skip the lines and make your vote count early.
Early Voting Dates: October 21 – November 1, 2025
Election Day: November 4, 2025
📍 Location: Lakeway Activity Center (105 Cross Creek, Lakeway, TX)
Bring your ID, and let your voice be heard for a transparent and vibrant Hills community!
💬 From the Founder
When I started The Hills Observer, it wasn’t as a publication-it was a promise.
A promise to keep our residents informed, to make local governance accessible, and to ensure that decisions made in our city are visible to everyone who calls The Hills home.
Over the past year, I’ve been moved by how many of you have read, shared, and supported this effort. Your encouragement keeps this mission alive - to continue building a community where transparency isn’t just a value, but a practice.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for believing that an informed community is a stronger one.
With gratitude,
Karthik Naralasetty
Resident Reporter, The Hills Observer