The Village of The Hills City Council met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, to discuss the village’s financial standing, public safety updates, infrastructure improvements, and upcoming community events. Below is a clear summary of the key updates that matter most to residents.
Financial Health: Strong Reserves and Clean Audit
The council received the annual audit presentation from Singleton Clark and Company for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, and the results were positive.
The Village received an “unmodified” audit opinion, which is the highest level of assurance an auditor can provide. This indicates that the financial statements fairly represent the Village’s financial position.
Some key financial highlights:
Strong Reserves: The Village currently holds an ending fund balance of approximately $1.3 million.
Above Recommended Levels: While financial best practices recommend maintaining about three months of reserves, The Hills currently holds roughly 20 months of reserves.
Sales Tax Growth: February sales tax revenue came in 30% higher than the same time last year, exceeding the year-to-date budget by $22,000.
This financial position gives the Village flexibility while maintaining long-term stability.
Property Tax Exemptions: What Residents Should Know
Lianna Mann, Chief Appraiser for the Travis Central Appraisal District, attended the meeting to discuss property tax exemptions available to residents.
The Village of The Hills currently offers:
Maximum 20% Homestead Exemption
$25,000 Exemption for residents who are disabled or over age 65
Residents who qualify should ensure they have applied through the Travis Central Appraisal District to receive these benefits.
Public Safety Updates
Public safety continues to be a focus for the Village.
Police Activity
In February, law enforcement responded to 164 incidents within the Village.
Traffic enforcement included:
62 traffic stops
20 citations issued
49 warnings
Most stops were related to speeding or failure to stop at stop signs.
Wildfire Mitigation Review
Lake Travis Fire Rescue (LTFR) recently completed a wildfire mitigation assessment of the Village.
Overall, the Village received positive feedback for maintaining ladder fuels, which are vegetation layers that can allow fires to spread upward into tree canopies.
However, LTFR recommended removing Nandina, an invasive plant that increases wildfire risk. The council authorized the City Administrator to work with a certified arborist to remove these plants in certain greenbelt areas to improve fire safety.
Parks, Recreation & Community Events
The Parks and Recreation Commission has been actively preparing for several upcoming events and improvements.
New Commission Member
The council officially appointed Jim Fletcher to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Volunteers continue to play an important role in organizing community activities.
Upcoming Community Events
Earth Day – April 22
Residents are invited to the Village park for activities celebrating Earth Day.
End of School Year Blast
Instead of the traditional Jazz Fest, the commission is planning an End of School Year celebration featuring ice cream and family-friendly entertainment.
Park Improvements
The Village is currently gathering estimates to install two new flag poles with lighting at the park entrance to honor veterans.
Infrastructure Updates
Several smaller infrastructure items were also addressed during the meeting.
Park Restroom Repairs
Repairs to the women’s restroom at the park have been completed and the facility has returned to a regular cleaning schedule.
Street & School Zone Signs
The Village is currently gathering estimates to replace damaged street signs and school zone signage throughout the community.
Pedestrian Gates
After discussions with the POA, potential plans to automate or change management of the pedestrian gates are currently on hold, as there is no current appetite for additional liability or administrative responsibilities.
Closing Thoughts
The March council meeting reflected a community that remains financially strong, focused on safety, and committed to maintaining its shared spaces.
As always, resident engagement continues to play an important role in shaping the Village’s future.
The Hills Observer will continue attending and summarizing council meetings so residents can stay informed about what’s happening in our village.
—
Resident Reporter
Karthik Naralasetty