Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Round Rock public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
25 issues with high priority
Graffiti Abatement Ordinance Revision
The city updated its graffiti removal ordinance to give property owners 15 days to clean up vandalism while providing free cleanup services. Officials stressed that property owners are victims and will not face liens or financial penalties.
Utility Rate Adjustments
Residential, commercial, and downtown garbage rates are officially locked in following the final reading of a municipal code update.
Gattis School Road Segment 2 Right-of-Way Acquisition
The city acquired necessary right-of-way for the Gattis School Road Segment 2 improvement project, which will widen the road to four lanes and add a shared-use path.
The District Development
Mark IV Capital requested and received a waiver from rules prohibiting alcohol sales within 300 feet of public schools for parcels in The District. This change removes a major roadblock for future restaurants and retailers looking to open in the mixed-use development.
Heritage Trail East Construction and Master Plan Update
Approval of a $6.59 million contract to Patin Construction to bridge the gap in the Heritage Trail between Mays and Georgetown streets, completing a major east-west pedestrian corridor.
Parks Master Plan and Trails Network Expansion
The council adopted the Round Rock Trails Plan update to Playbook 2030, charting a connected network of multi-use trails and discussing economic development opportunities along trail corridors.
ESD-9 Sales Tax and Property Tax Interlocal Agreement
An updated agreement with Emergency Services District No. 9 will bring in an estimated $3 million in new sales tax revenue on top of $5.5 million in property taxes to help fund local fire operations.
Transportation Capital Improvements Program Funding Amendment
The city is adding $15.5 million to its road program to secure necessary right-of-way land for Kenney Fort Boulevard and Wyoming Springs Drive. These projects are part of the city's master plan to handle rapid regional growth.
Palm House Restoration
The city is moving forward with restoring the historic 1873 Palm House, which will be relocated to the Old Settlers Association grounds for public use.
Multi-Family Housing Policy Update
The city is updating its 14-year-old rules on apartment construction to allow for more modern, urban-style developments that better fit current market needs.
Public Transit Services
The city is evaluating its transit system, including the 'Round Rock Rides' on-demand service and fixed-route buses, to ensure efficient service as the city grows. The Council is securing federal funding and extending partnerships to maintain current operations while planning for future transit needs.
Preserve at Stone Oak PUD Amendment
A developer wants to add retail to a residential area. Neighbors are worried about traffic and noise, so the city is requiring buffers and specific design rules.
FLOCK Camera Surveillance
A resident expressed concerns about the expansion of the FLOCK camera program, citing privacy and civil liberty issues.
Meadows Neighborhood Drainage and Utility Upgrades
The city is evaluating how to handle aging water and sewer lines in areas outside city limits, like the Meadows at Chandler Creek, to avoid high costs for local taxpayers.
Citizen Agenda Access
The city repealed a rule that let residents put items on the agenda. Residents are worried this limits their ability to bring up complex issues.
Economic Development Incentives
The board is looking at ways to bring new businesses to Round Rock, which could mean more jobs and a stronger local economy.
Roadway Impact Fee Program
Developers are paying fees that help the city build roads and water systems, which saves taxpayers millions of dollars.
Commercial Parking Requirements
The city is considering removing minimum parking rules for businesses to help them grow and reduce excess pavement. This could make it easier for new shops and restaurants to open in existing centers.
Slate PUD Development
A developer wants to add a medium-density apartment option to the Slate project. Neighbors are worried about traffic and privacy from balconies.
Parks and Recreation Fee Increases
Round Rock just raised the prices for renting city pavilions, sports fields, and visiting Rock'N River water park. If you're planning a neighborhood bash, a little league game, or a summer pool day, expect to shell out a bit more cash.
Kenney Fort North Development
A major development project is changing its design to focus on trail access and mixed-use spaces. Neighbors are worried about how this will change the feel of the area and impact traffic.
Digital Billboards and Public Safety
Round Rock voters are deciding on Proposition A, a measure linking digital billboards directly to public safety rules in the city. Your vote today will set the standard for how these bright screens are managed near our roadways.
Mutual Aid Structural Fire Agreement with Pflugerville
Round Rock is considering a new mutual aid agreement with Pflugerville (Travis County ESD No. 2) specifically for structure fires. EMS services were intentionally left out of this deal because past combined agreements led to long wait times for ambulances.
Billboard Ballot Proposition
Round Rock voters could soon get a say on whether to allow more flashy electronic billboards along local highways and commercial spots. If it passes, expect a major visual shakeup in how our main strips look.
Airco Mechanical Industrial Expansion
Airco Mechanical is looking to expand its facility. The city is adding strict rules to protect nearby homes from noise, light, and traffic.