Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Georgetown public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
50 issues
Southwestern University 560 & Customer Service Center Groundbreaking
The city is marking the start of a new development project involving Southwestern University and a new customer service center. This event celebrates community growth and improves future access to city services.
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project Implementation
The board is reviewing proposals to replace aging electric meters and hardware with a modern Advanced Metering Infrastructure system. This upgrade will help staff monitor grid health, manage power quality, and support future rate structures.
Cybersecurity and Competitive Power Matters
Board members will review confidential security updates and risk management strategies to protect the municipal electric grid from digital threats.
Solid Waste Disposal Rate Adjustments
The city is reviewing adjustments to solid waste and recycling rates for residents and businesses to cover operational costs and maintain service quality. These changes will impact monthly utility bills across different customer tiers.
$50 Million Utility Revenue Bond Sale for Water Initiative
The council is reviewing ordinances to issue utility system revenue bonds, including a $29 million low-interest bond with the Texas Water Development Board for water treatment and distribution improvements.
Facade Grant Fund
Property owner Tom Guyton is seeking Main Street facade grant assistance to repair historic stucco and wooden window frames on his building at 212 W. 7th Street. The project aims to preserve the historic exterior character of the downtown commercial property ahead of a planned November start date.
Police Promotional Examination Appeals
Candidates for police lieutenant and sergeant positions are appealing specific questions from recent written promotional exams, which will impact promotion eligibility lists.
Downtown Facade Improvements at 212 W. 7th Street
Property owner Tom Guyton is seeking Main Street facade grant assistance to repair historic stucco and wooden window frames on his building at 212 W. 7th Street. The project aims to preserve the historic exterior character of the downtown commercial property ahead of a planned November start date.
2026 Holiday Ornament Pricing and Distribution
The advisory board will discuss pricing and sales strategies for the 2026 municipal holiday ornament program, which supports local holiday traditions and downtown promotions.
City Financial Strategy
The board is reviewing updates to the department's cost recovery process, which helps determine user fees and program pricing for public recreation services.
Parks Capital Improvement Program
The advisory board will review ongoing capital projects across Georgetown's park system, keeping residents informed on facility upgrades and new park developments.
Cedar Hollow Waterline Replacement Project
The city is moving forward to replace about 44,500 feet of aging waterlines in the Cedar Hollow subdivision to cut down on leaks and improve service reliability. Lupe Rubio Construction was selected for the $5.72 million project, which will upgrade lines to modern 8-inch PVC pipes.
Historic Home Expansion and Demolition at 1409 Olive Street
Property owners at 1409 Olive Street want to tear down an unpermitted 1970s addition and a shed to build a new garage and expand the historic 1885 home. The Demolition Subcommittee reviewed the plans and recommended approval, noting the original 1885 structure—once home to Judge Harry N. Graves during the KKK trials—will benefit from removing the failing 1970s structure.
Housing Advisory Board Annual Orientation and Program Review
New and returning board members will receive training on affordable housing goals, the Home Repair Program, and how federal CDBG grants are used in Georgetown.
Historic Commission Board Training and Procedures
HARC members will undergo training on how to evaluate changes to historic structures, ensuring consistent application of design guidelines across Georgetown's historic districts.
Commission Training and Education
Georgetown is preparing its advisory board and commission members with essential training on local land use codes, public meeting rules, and the ongoing Unified Development Code rewrite. These sessions ensure that volunteers making recommendations on growth and development are fully equipped to handle complex zoning cases.
Zoning Board Member Training and Procedures
City planning staff trained local board members on how to handle zoning cases, public hearings, and conflicts of interest. The session ensures that volunteers making decisions on Georgetown's growth understand the legal and procedural rules.
Parks and Recreation Director Appointment
Georgetown just named Eric Numer as the new Parks and Recreation Director. He's stepping in to run all the city's parks, trails, and rec programs.
Exterior Renovation and Additions at 205 E. University Ave. (Texas Municipal Center)
The commission is reviewing plans to overhaul the exterior of the 1961 mid-century modern office building at 205 E. University Ave. and add two new wings. The project aims to modernize the building's envelope and integrate new materials while respecting its unique architectural history within the downtown historic district.
Woodside MUD Amendment and Sun City Expansion
Council approved expanding Sun City by 143 homes through a Woodside MUD amendment, sparking debate over whether the community's infrastructure can handle more residents.
9th and Main Street Parking Garage Retail Space
Council discussed strategies for leasing or selling the ground-floor retail space in the upcoming downtown parking garage, favoring an open RFP to find a private master developer.
FY 2026 Third Quarter Financial Review
Staff shared unaudited Q3 financials showing strong general fund revenues, capital project roll-forwards in water and electric, and ongoing monitoring of airport fund self-sustainability.
Blue Hole Park Renovations and Operations
Council reviewed updated park designs incorporating lessons from recent floods, scaled-back parking to protect heritage trees, and stricter rules against portable grills and pop-up canopies.
Ride GTX Transit Program
Council weighed changes to the Ride GTX microtransit service to manage rising costs, supporting service hour reductions, a fare increase from $4 to $5, and a monthly trip cap.
Downtown Parking Capacity
Georgetown's downtown is getting a major parking upgrade! A new 315-space garage opens November 21st, making it way easier to hit up your favorite shops and eateries without circling the block.
Small Business Support
Georgetown is considering loosening rules for businesses wanting outdoor seating or sidewalk expansion. The goal is to boost street life, but it might make walking around a bit trickier.
LaunchGTX Entrepreneur Platform Introduction
The economic development team is rolling out a new online portal called LaunchGTX to help local startups and small businesses access market data, financial calculators, and coaching resources.
Cybersecurity and Competitive Matters
Georgetown is installing new license plate reader cameras across the city. While officials say it's for public safety, some residents are raising privacy concerns about the increased surveillance.
Pro-Glass Special Use Permit
A developer wants to build a new car wash next to the existing QT gas station on North Austin Avenue. Staff and commissioners reviewed plans to make sure noise and traffic don't bother nearby apartments and homes.
Arts and Culture Program Updates
The board selected new sculptures to be installed across the city, boosting local public art displays.
Library Programs and Statistics
The board reviewed a report on library activities, including youth and adult programs, and patron feedback. This helps ensure the library is meeting community needs through its services.
Future Energy Planning
The city is looking at how to best plan for its energy needs in the coming years. This involves creating a comprehensive plan to ensure reliable and cost-effective energy for residents and businesses.
Downtown Sidewalk Cafe and Street Patio Pilot Program
Georgetown is thinking about turning some street parking into mini-patios for local businesses. They're launching a test run to see if these 'parklets' are a hit and if they work for the city.
High-Density Multifamily Development
Georgetown's getting a huge new development, basically a 'mini city,' from an Austin developer. This massive project is poised to significantly alter the local landscape.
Fleet and Facility Maintenance Purchases
The council approved the purchase of a mechanics truck to support fleet maintenance and citywide furniture for facilities, ensuring operational efficiency.
Library Facility Accessibility
Georgetown is having a rough morning! City facilities are opening late today, at 1 p.m., due to icy roads. Make sure to adjust your plans!
Police Shooting
A man was killed in a police shooting right in the middle of Georgetown’s town square. This tragic event is raising serious questions about how our local police handle high-stakes situations and what it means for our safety downtown.
Historic Siding Replacement at 1305 S Elm Street
A homeowner in the Old Town Historic District received approval to replace rotted wooden siding with modern cement fiber siding because the original material was too damaged to repair and was letting pests into the house.
Historic Window Replacement vs. Restoration
A homeowner's request to replace original historic windows was met with a preference for restoration. The commission postponed the decision, asking for a detailed estimate for repairing the front windows, highlighting the value of preserving original features.
Ronald Reagan Boulevard Traffic Safety
Georgetown drivers, brace yourselves! A massive $15 million project is kicking off to widen Shell Road. Expect some traffic headaches in the short term, but the city hopes it'll mean easier drives for everyone in the future.
FY 2027 Budget and Tax Rate
Georgetown's dropping a huge $1.3 billion budget for next year, and guess what? Your property taxes are getting a break! But hold onto your wallets, because water and sewer bills are set to climb.
Williams Drive Enhancement Project
Big changes are coming to Georgetown in 2026 with major development projects set to begin. Get ready for some construction and potential traffic headaches as the city grows.
Street Maintenance Sales Tax Renewal
The city is asking voters to renew a 1/4 cent sales tax that funds road repairs. This tax is the main way the city pays for keeping our streets in good shape.
Transportation Infrastructure Progress
City staff provided status updates on major local roadway projects like SH 29 West, Memorial Drive, and the Austin Avenue Corridor. These projects aim to improve traffic flow, accommodate growth, and enhance pedestrian pathways.
Economic Recruitment and Project Isosceles
The economic development board evaluated business prospects and approved an incentive agreement for Project Isosceles to encourage business growth in Georgetown.
Staff Activity and Workforce Development Initiatives
Staff updated the board on business visits, upcoming events like Launch GTX, and military transition programs to connect veterans with local employers.
PFAS Water Treatment Pilot Study
Great news, Georgetown! That pesky boil water advisory has been lifted for most of the city. You can finally drink and use your tap water again without worry.
Carriage Oaks Water Tank Rehabilitation
Georgetown's running low on water and might stop sharing with neighbors. This could totally shake up how water gets around the area.
Contractor Oversight and Resident Protection
A resident raised concerns about property damage caused by city contractors and the difficulty of seeking compensation. He suggested adding fee-shifting clauses to city contracts to protect residents.
2027 State Legislative Agenda
The city is preparing its legislative priorities for the 2027 Texas Legislative Session. This involves discussing interim charges from the legislature and developing potential bills that align with the city's goals.