https://www.haysfreepress.com/author/2,brittany-kelley en Wed, 13 May 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26390,kyle-area-senior-zone-hosts-second-annual-senior-expo-fiestaThe Kyle Area Senior Zone (KASZ) hosted its second annual Senior Expo Fiesta Thursday, May 7. The event boasted a multitude of resources for older adults in the community. Vendors from banks to h...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26390,kyle-area-senior-zone-hosts-second-annual-senior-expo-fiesta https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26391,dripping-springs-man-to-endure-2-000-mile-ride-to-aid-small-town-communitiesDRIPPING SPRINGS — Matt King’s body is about to be in an enormous amount of pain. For him, it’s worth it. His pain will last two weeks, but the people he’s helping along the way of his 2,000-mile bike...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26391,dripping-springs-man-to-endure-2-000-mile-ride-to-aid-small-town-communities https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26386,expert-shares-snake-safety-emphasizes-educationHAYS COUNTY — As the weather warms up from the cold months of winter, a multitude of animals begin to wake up from their slumber, including snakes. But the truth is, explained Snakes of Hays County ow...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26386,expert-shares-snake-safety-emphasizes-education https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26385,where-wonder-play-and-coffee-meet-play-cafe-now-openThe Bright Imaginations Play Cafe hosted a ribbon cutting alongside the Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce Thursday, May 7. Founder Samantha Turner explained that she hoped to provide an opportunity for mo...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26385,where-wonder-play-and-coffee-meet-play-cafe-now-open https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26383,kyle-city-council-receives-hays-county-eastside-campus-updateKYLE — Kyle City Council received an update on the Hays County administrative facility to be located east of IH-35, within city limits, at its May 5 meeting.This item follows the execution of a memora...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26383,kyle-city-council-receives-hays-county-eastside-campus-update https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26374,wildflower-springs-to-take-place-of-former-assisted-living-facilityDRIPPING SPRINGS —  Six months after the license revocation of a Wimberley assisted living and memory care facility, Jana Gills, executive director and operator of Lavender Springs Assisted Livin...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26374,wildflower-springs-to-take-place-of-former-assisted-living-facility https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26366,older-adults-provide-feedback-to-city-of-kyleOlder adults and their caregivers were welcome to give feedback on their experiences within Kyle at the second Board on Aging Public Input Meeting Thursday, April 30. The first was held Tuesday, April...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26366,older-adults-provide-feedback-to-city-of-kyle https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26359,hays-county-commissioners-court-tables-hays-commons-development-agreementSAN MARCOS —  The Hays County Commissioners Court tabled a development agreement for the Hays Commons development at its April 28 meeting.According to commissioner Walt Smith, an item regarding a...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26359,hays-county-commissioners-court-tables-hays-commons-development-agreement https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26356,first-responder-kids-day-held-in-budaFirst Responders Kids Day was hosted by the Hays County Crime Stoppers Saturday, May 2, at Cabela’s in Buda. The event featured several law enforcement agencies, such as the Buda Fire Department.&nbsp...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26356,first-responder-kids-day-held-in-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26346,new-bee-therapy-facility-to-aid-veteransDRIPPING SPRINGS —  Veterans will soon be able to receive a new form of therapy, with the help of bees, through the Fireside Chat Support Network.The nonprofit began after a local decorated veter...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26346,new-bee-therapy-facility-to-aid-veterans https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26339,kyle-residents-supported-through-utility-assistance-programKYLE — The city of Kyle is launching a new way to support its residents through the Utility Customer Assistance Program (UCAP).According to assistant director of Finance Joshua Chronley, the idea for...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26339,kyle-residents-supported-through-utility-assistance-program https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26332,hays-cisd-approves-employee-compensation-plan-for-fiscal-year-2026-27KYLE — The Hays CISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the employee compensation plan for the 2026-27 fiscal year at its April 27 meeting.Prior to the vote, Christina Courson, chief Human...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26332,hays-cisd-approves-employee-compensation-plan-for-fiscal-year-2026-27 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26331,kyle-sees-new-master-plans-selects-interim-city-managerKYLE — The Kyle City Council April 21 meeting was filled with firsts, as the Public Art and Library master plans were approved. Additionally, council approved an interim city manager.Prior to the regu...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26331,kyle-sees-new-master-plans-selects-interim-city-manager https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26306,kyle-staff-to-bring-back-ordinance-draft-to-council-for-a-financial-oversight-committeeKYLE — Kyle City Council discussed a potential Finance and Audit Committee at its April 16 special meeting, along with city manager Bryan Langley’s resignation and an item that previously failed.The p...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26306,kyle-staff-to-bring-back-ordinance-draft-to-council-for-a-financial-oversight-committee https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26307,kyle-compensation-committee-talks-removing-stipend-cost-of-living-increasesKYLE — The Kyle Compensation Committee discussed changes to city council compensation for the first time in four years at its April 17 meeting.According to the presentation by assistant city manager J...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26307,kyle-compensation-committee-talks-removing-stipend-cost-of-living-increases https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26311,if-this-house-doesn-t-have-natural-light-then-it-s-a-no-for-meWhen I was young and obsessed with “House Hunters,” I used to roll my eyes at all of the guests emphasizing how they just “had to have natural light.” I would turn to my mom and ask, “What is natural...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26311,if-this-house-doesn-t-have-natural-light-then-it-s-a-no-for-me https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26293,wimberley-man-receives-eight-years-probation-for-indecency-with-childSAN MARCOS — Richard Hargraves, 57, of Wimberley received eight years probation for one count of indecency with child sexual contact April 7.RICHARD HARGRAVESA forensic interview of the victim was con...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26293,wimberley-man-receives-eight-years-probation-for-indecency-with-child https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26291,hays-county-esd-no-9-switches-to-in-house-response-teamsKYLE — Hays County Emergency Services District (ESD) No. 9 began conducting emergency services in house April 1.The entity has been in service since 2015 and serves the southeastern portion of Hays Co...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26291,hays-county-esd-no-9-switches-to-in-house-response-teams https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26281,kyle-council-considers-amendments-to-rules-of-council-code-of-conduct-for-officialsKYLE — After Kyle City Council member Claudia Zapata alleged that she was threatened at a previous meeting, she brought forth two items at the April 7 meeting regarding the Rules of Council and Code o...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26281,kyle-council-considers-amendments-to-rules-of-council-code-of-conduct-for-officials https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26280,happy-145th-birthday-budaResidents of Buda gathered April 10-12 to celebrate 145 years of the city at Buda Amphitheater & City Park. The event began with live music in various downtown locations Friday, which continued th...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26280,happy-145th-birthday-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26289,hays-cisd-introduces-girls-flag-football-programKYLE — Female athletes from three high schools in Hays CISD have been hitting the field in a newly-available sport — flag football.The program began after a local flag football league connected Hays C...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26289,hays-cisd-introduces-girls-flag-football-program https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26253,southside-community-center-provides-support-with-housing-stability-programSAN MARCOS — Southside Community Center has been aiding the residents of Hays County for nearly a century. As financial strain continues for many, the nonprofit has created a Housing Stability Program...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26253,southside-community-center-provides-support-with-housing-stability-program https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26252,man-who-killed-two-in-2024-hays-cisd-bus-accident-up-for-parole-community-asked-to-helpKYLE — Community members have been encouraged to write letters to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, following the announcement that the driver who took two lives, including a 5-year-old Hays CIS...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26252,man-who-killed-two-in-2024-hays-cisd-bus-accident-up-for-parole-community-asked-to-help https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26244,springs-family-ymca-hosts-eggstravaganzaYoung swimmers congregated at the Springs Family YMCA in Dripping Springs Sunday, March 29, to participate in several activities, including land and pool egg hunts. ]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26244,springs-family-ymca-hosts-eggstravaganza https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26234,kyle-compensation-committee-holds-first-meeting-in-four-yearsKYLE — The Kyle Compensation Committee convened for the first time in four years March 26.The committee consists of residents chosen by council members — Howard Connell, Melissa Spence, Julianne Orgis...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26234,kyle-compensation-committee-holds-first-meeting-in-four-years https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26235,southside-community-center-to-receive-125k-additional-funding-from-hays-county-commissioners-courtSAN MARCOS — The Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously voted to approve a one-time funding of $100,000 to assist the Southside Community Center with its Housing Stability Program March 24.The no...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26235,southside-community-center-to-receive-125k-additional-funding-from-hays-county-commissioners-court https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26230,kyle-city-council-talks-vfw-building-ownershipKYLE — Following a proclamation recognizing the Kyle VFW Post 12058’s 20th year, Kyle City Council approved the first step in potentially transferring the ownership of the current VFW facility from th...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26230,kyle-city-council-talks-vfw-building-ownership https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26229,buda-celebrates-easterMikayla G. proudly shows off the eggs she managed to get at the Buda Egg-Stravaganza Saturday, March 28, at the Buda Amphitheater & City Park.The family-fun event also featured bounce houses, food...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26229,buda-celebrates-easter https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26228,hays-cisd-votes-in-plans-for-12-25-million-budget-cutKYLE — The Hays CISD Board of Trustees unanimously voted to approve preliminary budgeting decisions for the 2026-27 fiscal year, amounting to $12.25 million in cuts, at its March 30 meeting.Prior to i...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26228,hays-cisd-votes-in-plans-for-12-25-million-budget-cut https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26220,hays-county-precinct-3-commissioner-parks-director-share-park-updatesSAN MARCOS  — Significant additions to the Hays County parks scene are underway in Precinct 3 on the western side of the county.According to Hays County Parks Director Karl Flocke, the projects b...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26220,hays-county-precinct-3-commissioner-parks-director-share-park-updates https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26212,marine-corps-veteran-receives-mortgage-free-homeAs part of Bank of America’s efforts to support United States military veterans, Sgt. Luis Valadez received a mortgage-free home in Buda Thursday, March 19. Valadez was born in Mexico and, like many o...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26212,marine-corps-veteran-receives-mortgage-free-home https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26211,kyle-city-council-hears-police-grant-proposalKYLE — Kyle City Council heard a presentation regarding a potential application for the Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Authority Grant funding program at its March 19 meeting.This is the third year in...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26211,kyle-city-council-hears-police-grant-proposal https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26227,buda-economic-development-corporation-launches-new-program-to-support-small-businessesBUDA — In an effort to continue its goal of investing in economic development in the community, the Buda Economic Development Corporation has launched THRIVE, a 0$ interest loan program, in partnershi...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26227,buda-economic-development-corporation-launches-new-program-to-support-small-businesses https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26215,cheesy-potato-burrito-daysI’m not sure if you know, but one of the greatest culinary inventions ruled my life in 2012 — the Cheesy Potato Burrito from Taco Bell.The warm, gooey burrito was just as delicious as the name implies...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26215,cheesy-potato-burrito-days https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26191,kyle-city-council-hears-crossroad-district-proposalKYLE — Kyle City Council heard plans for a proposed mixed-use development at its March 3 meeting.The Crossroad Development, also known as the Philo Project by city staff, was initially annexed and zon...]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26191,kyle-city-council-hears-crossroad-district-proposal https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26189,grand-central-comics-makes-kyle-its-homeKYLE — Long before the idea of the storefront location of Grand Central Comics, was Will Johnson’s love for comics.At a young age, Will was enthusiastic about art, particularly in creating it. So, whe...]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26189,grand-central-comics-makes-kyle-its-home https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26190,dacy-business-park-celebrates-phase-2-openingKYLE — Following a chance to own her own property after years of renting, LT Commercial Group CEO Lezlie Tram Le partnered with the creators of Dacy Business Park to bring the same opportunity to othe...]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26190,dacy-business-park-celebrates-phase-2-opening https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26188,buda-residents-to-see-new-h-e-b-as-partnership-deals-completeBUDA — A former landfill will now lay the foundation for a new, larger H-E-B for Buda residents.The project has been a long time coming, said Buda Economic Development director Jennifer Storm. She not...]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26188,buda-residents-to-see-new-h-e-b-as-partnership-deals-complete https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26180,patrons-visit-first-wimberley-market-day-of-the-yearVisitors piled into the first Wimberley Market Day of the year, despite the rain. The event, which is hosted by the Wimberley Lions Club, occurs the first Saturday of each month, beginning in March an...]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26180,patrons-visit-first-wimberley-market-day-of-the-year https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26172,districts-to-reconsider-photography-contracts-following-alleged-epstein-connectionHAYS COUNTY —  Following mention of former Apollo Global Management — which owns Lifetouch's parent company Shutterfly — CEO Leon Black in the Epstein files, schools across the nation have cancel...]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26172,districts-to-reconsider-photography-contracts-following-alleged-epstein-connection https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26171,residents-to-see-new-faces-on-hays-cisd-board-of-trustees-following-election-filingKYLE — The Hays CISD Board of Trustees will have several candidates vying for positions for the Saturday, May 2, election.Current trustee Raul Vela Jr. will return to his Single Member District 1 seat...]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26171,residents-to-see-new-faces-on-hays-cisd-board-of-trustees-following-election-filing https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26170,infrastructure-summit-emphasizes-partnership-talks-developmentSAN MARCOS — Transportation leaders throughout Central Texas discussed ongoing projects and the importance of economic development at the Infrastructure Summit Wednesday, March 4.The event, hosted by...]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26170,infrastructure-summit-emphasizes-partnership-talks-development https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26168,kyle-city-council-talks-city-manager-contract-amendmentsKYLE — Kyle City Council had an open discussion regarding the contract of city manager Bryan Langley at its March 3 special meeting.“We were originally going to go into the back to discuss, but Bryan...]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26168,kyle-city-council-talks-city-manager-contract-amendments https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26160,children-offered-creative-opportunity-at-wimberley-village-libraryWIMBERLEY  — Children with bright ideas and an ambitious spirit are invited to advertise their skills at the Wimberley Village Library Spring Kid-Preneur Market April 18.The idea began approximat...]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 16:50:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26160,children-offered-creative-opportunity-at-wimberley-village-library https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26149,library-feedback-discussed-options-presented-at-kyle-city-councilKYLE — Residents may have the opportunity to receive what they have been asking for — an upgraded library, with a satellite location on the eastside — with Kyle’s Library Master Plan.The initial prese...]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:50:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26149,library-feedback-discussed-options-presented-at-kyle-city-council https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26146,hays-county-judge-ruben-becerra-tables-water-moratorium-commissioners-raise-concern-over-legalitySAN MARCOS — An effort to protect the remaining water in Hays County was ultimately tabled, due to legal concerns, at the Feb. 24 Hays County Commissioners Court meeting.This item follows the discussi...]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26146,hays-county-judge-ruben-becerra-tables-water-moratorium-commissioners-raise-concern-over-legality https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26145,organically-whole-health-wellness-celebrates-grand-opening-in-budaThe Greater Buda Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting Tuesday, Feb. 24, for the grand opening of Organically Whole Health & Wellness. Anita Lansing, left, started the business through the B...]]> Wed, 04 Mar 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26145,organically-whole-health-wellness-celebrates-grand-opening-in-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26124,hays-county-bar-association-hosts-judicial-candidate-forumSAN MARCOS — The Hays County Bar Association hosted a candidate forum Wednesday, Feb. 18, inviting those running for district and county court-at-law judge, county clerk and district attorney.District...]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26124,hays-county-bar-association-hosts-judicial-candidate-forum https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26120,seeing-the-ice-bucket-challenge-in-a-new-lightI’ve watched Mark Sloan die at least eight times.The first time was when I watched Shodna Rhimes’ “Grey’s Anatomy” in ninth grade. It only took years and years of begging my parents to get Netflix. Th...]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:50:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26120,seeing-the-ice-bucket-challenge-in-a-new-light https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26117,additional-work-sessions-approved-subcommittees-discussed-at-kyle-city-councilKYLE — Kyle City Council voted to create additional work sessions at its Feb. 17 meeting, opting to bring back the idea of separate subcommittees after budget season.The subcommittee was initially dis...]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26117,additional-work-sessions-approved-subcommittees-discussed-at-kyle-city-council https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26116,buda-celebrates-black-history-monthThe Buda Economic Development Corporation, city of Buda and Keeping Communities Connected hosted the seventh annual Black History Celebration Saturday, Feb. 21.The event featured a panel discussion. D...]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26116,buda-celebrates-black-history-month https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26119,proposed-san-marcos-data-center-stalled-amid-concernsSAN MARCOS — The heavily-discussed Mayberry Data Center has hit a road block in San Marcos.The 199.49-acre site for the proposed center was first presented to San Marcos City Council at its Aug. 19, 2...]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26119,proposed-san-marcos-data-center-stalled-amid-concerns https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26115,hays-cisd-talks-senate-bill-546-passes-religious-freedom-resolutionKYLE — The Hays CISD Board of Trustees discussed items regarding bills passed in the 89th Texas Legislature at its Feb. 17 meeting.This follows the passing of Senate Bill (SB) 546, which added a subse...]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26115,hays-cisd-talks-senate-bill-546-passes-religious-freedom-resolution https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26106,dripping-springs-community-band-beginsDRIPPING SPRINGS  — Adults in Dripping Springs are playing to a new tune, as they dust off their instruments for the new community band.A lot of other cities, such as Wimberley and Austin, have c...]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26106,dripping-springs-community-band-begins https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26101,hays-county-judge-proposes-moratorium-on-development-permitsHays County Judge Ruben Becerra held a press conference Monday, Feb. 16, at Spring Lake in San Marcos to announce his intent to pursue a moratorium on development permits for new industrial operations...]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26101,hays-county-judge-proposes-moratorium-on-development-permits https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26114,steeplechase-park-blooms-with-new-art-sculptureThe city of Kyle unveiled its first commissioned art piece Saturday, Feb. 14, at Steeplechase Park. The piece, titled “Sky Blooms,” features six eight-foot metal flowers, which, when dusk approaches,...]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:50:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26114,steeplechase-park-blooms-with-new-art-sculpture https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26113,new-tennis-pickleball-facility-headed-to-budaBUDA — On a mission to bring happiness and community to Buda, Grant Chambers and four other Hays and Travis county locals are preparing to open Racfit, a tennis and pickleball facility.The idea sparke...]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26113,new-tennis-pickleball-facility-headed-to-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26088,kyle-vfw-12058-to-expand-outreach-with-disaster-team-vehicleKYLE — The Kyle VFW 12058 is expanding its efforts to aid the community with a disaster team vehicle.Steve Cook, quartermaster of the VFW, shared that the opportunity stemmed from the nonprofit's comm...]]> Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26088,kyle-vfw-12058-to-expand-outreach-with-disaster-team-vehicle https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26080,wimberley-leadership-talks-tourism-at-community-forumWIMBERLEY  — The Wimberley Lions Club held a community forum Tuesday, Feb. 3, to inform residents on the current state of tourism.“Tourists are woven into our daily life here in Wimberley and how...]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26080,wimberley-leadership-talks-tourism-at-community-forum https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26073,buda-police-department-establishes-safe-exchange-zoneBUDA — Residents of Buda now have a location to conduct trades, due to a new Safe Exchange Zone at the Buda Police Department.The project comes after resident Courtney Lester saw a post on Instagram d...]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26073,buda-police-department-establishes-safe-exchange-zone https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26069,gregg-clarke-waterleaf-parks-improvement-concepts-discussed-at-kyle-city-councilKYLE — Kyle City Council provided feedback for potential improvements to both Gregg-Clarke and Waterleaf parks at its Jan. 20 meeting, as part of the Parks and Recreation Open Space Master Plan.“Gregg...]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:50:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26069,gregg-clarke-waterleaf-parks-improvement-concepts-discussed-at-kyle-city-council https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26065,kyle-city-council-aims-for-transparency-with-new-card-policyKYLE — Kyle City Council voted to approve a policy requiring staff to post all procurement card receipts online, with redactions, at its Feb. 3 meeting.Prior to discussing the policy, council approved...]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26065,kyle-city-council-aims-for-transparency-with-new-card-policy https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26067,buda-residents-support-hays-county-food-bank-fundraiserResidents lined up outside Inspired Minds Art Center in Buda Saturday, Feb. 7, to participate in Buy a Bowl, Feed 100 People. They were able to select unique bowls, following a $35 donation to the Hay...]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26067,buda-residents-support-hays-county-food-bank-fundraiser https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26053,train-open-for-rides-through-hill-countryWIMBERLEY — With spring looming in the distance, residents can begin to make plans outside. One opportunity, said 7A Ranch general manager Maengel Gonce, is taking a ride on the Pioneer Express Railro...]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26053,train-open-for-rides-through-hill-country https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26052,buda-s-ground-dog-predicts-early-springThe Greater Buda Chamber of Commerce and the city of Buda hosted their second annual Ground Dog Day event Sunday, Feb. 1. Beans, pictured, zooms toward the snowman and sun stuffed animals — how he cho...]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26052,buda-s-ground-dog-predicts-early-spring https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26047,smile-wired-orthodontics-holds-ribbon-cuttingWired Orthodontics hosted a ribbon cutting in honor of its new Buda location Jan. 28. The team, consisting of Dr. Chris Stansbury and Dr. Giancarlo Santos has several facilities throughout the greater...]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26047,smile-wired-orthodontics-holds-ribbon-cutting https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26046,city-of-kyle-proceeds-with-condemnation-on-nonprofit-s-landKYLE — A nonprofit dedicated to providing support to underprivileged children may have to put its plans on the back burner, following the city of Kyle enacting eminent domain on its land.This comes af...]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26046,city-of-kyle-proceeds-with-condemnation-on-nonprofit-s-land https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26045,texas-school-for-the-deaf-attempts-to-cleanse-population-parents-allegeEditor’s note: The Texas School for the Deaf staff member’s name has been changed for anonymity.AUSTIN — Two families have been left devastated after Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) suddenly deemed th...]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26045,texas-school-for-the-deaf-attempts-to-cleanse-population-parents-allege https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26044,hays-cisd-students-join-others-nationwide-in-ice-protestsEditor’s note: This story has been updated following print publication to include the arrest of Kyle resident Chad Michael Watts, 45, and the Texas Education Agency’s statement regarding walkouts, abs...]]> Wed, 04 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26044,hays-cisd-students-join-others-nationwide-in-ice-protests https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26013,north-buda-students-receive-new-zoning-for-hays-cisd-s-2026-27-school-yearKYLE — The Hays CISD Board of Trustees approved slight zoning changes for students in North Buda for the 2026-27 school year at its Jan. 26 meeting.Prior to the vote, trustees discussed the changes at...]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26013,north-buda-students-receive-new-zoning-for-hays-cisd-s-2026-27-school-year https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26010,kyle-city-council-approves-interlocal-agreement-design-contract-for-animal-facilityKYLE — Kyle City Council approved an interlocal agreement (ILA) with Hays County and the city of Buda at its Jan. 20 meeting, following a tabling in December.The item, which has been in the works sinc...]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26010,kyle-city-council-approves-interlocal-agreement-design-contract-for-animal-facility https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26016,my-2025-year-in-booksAfter finishing 90 books in 2024, I set a goal for myself in 2025 to read less.Although reading is definitely a passion of mine, I found myself — as silly as it sounds — lost when I wasn’t reading. It...]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26016,my-2025-year-in-books https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26025,texas-health-and-human-services-releases-investigation-after-facility-closureWIMBERLEY  — Residents were ushered out of Symphony of Wimberley Assisted Living and Memory Care June 30, 2025, following concerns of resident wellbeing and safety. Now, the documents that uncove...]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26025,texas-health-and-human-services-releases-investigation-after-facility-closure https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25997,kyle-area-senior-zone-prepares-to-celebrate-20-yearsKYLE — The Kyle Area Senior Zone (KASZ) will be celebrating 20 years of service Feb. 3.According to KASZ president Betty Conley, the nonprofit began in 2005 after the city of Kyle was planning on tear...]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:40:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25997,kyle-area-senior-zone-prepares-to-celebrate-20-years https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25996,dogs-owners-celebrate-new-buda-amenityBuda City Council member-elect Kimberly Goodman cuts the ribbon to celebrate the opening, alongside Baker. The dog park was originally at the Buda Sportsplex, but staff announced its closure August 20...]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25996,dogs-owners-celebrate-new-buda-amenity https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25994,hays-county-jail-based-competency-restoration-program-to-launch-aid-defendantsSAN MARCOS — Individuals deemed legally incompetent in the Hays County Jail will no longer face year-long wait times to receive the help they need, as the new Jail-Based Competency Restoration Program...]]> Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25994,hays-county-jail-based-competency-restoration-program-to-launch-aid-defendants https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25958,kyle-police-department-talks-credit-card-fraud-prevention-tipsKYLE — The Kyle Police Department is urging residents to be cognizant of potential credit card fraud in the new year.Credit card fraud, according to KPD public information and community engagement spe...]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25958,kyle-police-department-talks-credit-card-fraud-prevention-tips https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25952,hays-county-approves-agreement-for-kyle-animal-facilitySAN MARCOS — The Hays County Commissioners Court approved an interlocal agreement (ILA) with the cities of Kyle and Buda for an animal facility at its Jan. 6 meeting.According to agenda documents, the...]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 15:40:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25952,hays-county-approves-agreement-for-kyle-animal-facility https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25948,kyle-city-council-votes-to-end-council-credit-cardsKYLE — Kyle City Council discussed the controversial council member credit cards at its Jan. 6 meeting.Two items related to the cards were opened together, with council members Marc McKinney and Melis...]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25948,kyle-city-council-votes-to-end-council-credit-cards https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25938,dripping-springs-high-school-student-creates-resource-for-immigrantsDRIPPING SPRINGS   — After noting the increased political tension, Dripping Springs High School junior Anvika Jain felt called to create a platform to help to those hoping to gain their citizensh...]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 16:40:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25938,dripping-springs-high-school-student-creates-resource-for-immigrants https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25937,basketball-camp-available-to-hays-county-residentsKYLE — In an effort to build essential skills for young basketball players within the county, Clarissa Talbert and Laura Zunker created the Hays Shooting Stars, a local camp.“We’re both parents of ath...]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 16:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25937,basketball-camp-available-to-hays-county-residents https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25928,play-cafe-to-open-for-parents-children-in-kyleKYLE — Parents in Hays County will soon be able to enjoy an hour or two of relaxation, while their children play at the brand new Bright Imaginations Play Cafe.The idea started when Kyle resident Sama...]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25928,play-cafe-to-open-for-parents-children-in-kyle https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25927,kylites-jump-into-the-new-yearResidents of Kyle started the new year on the right track with two events hosted by the city. The first, which mother Mailey Robinson and daughter Oaklee Adams, pictured below, participated in was a 5...]]> Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25927,kylites-jump-into-the-new-year https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25921,liz-s-2025-favorite-storiesKyle Public Library to open new mobile libraryBy Brittany Kelley - April 23, 2025KYLE — It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s … the brand-new Kyle Mobile Library, which launched in the summer of 2025.“[The]...]]> Tue, 30 Dec 2025 10:30:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25921,liz-s-2025-favorite-stories https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25920,brittany-s-2025-favorite-storiesCommunity, first responders rally behind Buda firefighter’s cancer battleBy Megan Navarro - July 16, 2025BUDA — After discovering that Jason Eckstrom was going to have to endure another cancer battle,...]]> Tue, 30 Dec 2025 10:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25920,brittany-s-2025-favorite-stories https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25918,new-dispatch-s-top-5-stories-of-2025No. 5 - Dripping Springs moves to new trash service providerBy Megan Navarro - June 18, 2025DRIPPING SPRINGS — The city of Dripping Springs has been using Texas Disposal Systems (TDS) as its new solid...]]> Tue, 30 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25918,new-dispatch-s-top-5-stories-of-2025 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25917,hays-free-press-top-5-stories-of-2025No. 5 - New swim facility offers lessons, competitive teamBy Brittany Kelley - May 21, 2025KYLE — Nitro Swimming was initially an opportunity for co-owner Mike Koleber to teach the aquatic sport, but...]]> Tue, 30 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25917,hays-free-press-top-5-stories-of-2025 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25912,hays-county-precinct-2-holds-holiday-party-for-residentsHays County Precinct 2 Commissioner Michelle Cohen poses with Santa at the holiday party Friday, Dec. 19. The Community Holiday Party took place at the Precinct 2 office in Kyle and had opportunities...]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25912,hays-county-precinct-2-holds-holiday-party-for-residents https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25910,kyle-city-council-hears-mobility-plan-updateKYLE — Kyle City Council heard a presentation on the city’s mobility plan at its Dec. 16 meeting.According to director of Transportation and Public Works Mike Trimble, council approved moving forward...]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:50:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25910,kyle-city-council-hears-mobility-plan-update https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25909,community-members-enjoy-buda-holiday-lightsBetween Dec. 10-13 and Dec. 17-20, Hays County community members gathered to walk the annual Buda Holiday Lights. The event hosts a multitude of local business sponsored displays, as well as scenes se...]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:40:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25909,community-members-enjoy-buda-holiday-lights https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25907,hays-county-commissioners-hear-animal-welfare-services-division-updateSAN MARCOS— The Hays County Commissioners Court listened to a presentation regarding the Animal Welfare Services Division at its Dec. 16 meeting.According to Matthew Gonzales, Hays County Health Depar...]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25907,hays-county-commissioners-hear-animal-welfare-services-division-update https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25906,a-christmas-miracle-a-dog-s-loveWhen it comes to Christmas, there are so many traditions that are continued each year. Maybe it’s getting matching pajamas with your family, baking the same cake or doing an annual activity together....]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25906,a-christmas-miracle-a-dog-s-love https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25902,dripping-springs-library-plans-to-go-mobileDRIPPING SPRINGS — The Dripping Springs Community Library is hoping to get new wheels to allow better service to its community members.According to library director Mindy Laird, she has long been brai...]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25902,dripping-springs-library-plans-to-go-mobile https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25892,local-buda-veterinary-clinic-celebrates-one-year-in-businessBuda Veterinary Care celebrated its one year anniversary Wednesday, Dec. 10. The local business, located at 835 Main St., Building 100, has special entrances for both dogs and cats to keep anxiet...]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25892,local-buda-veterinary-clinic-celebrates-one-year-in-business https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25890,hays-cisd-approves-utility-road-agreement-for-new-high-schoolKYLE — The Hays CISD Board of Trustees approved money allocation for High School #4’s utility and road construction agreement at its Dec. 8 meeting.Max Cleaver, chief operations officer, clarified tha...]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:00:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25890,hays-cisd-approves-utility-road-agreement-for-new-high-school https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25883,paws-shelter-discusses-allegations-talks-financial-challengesKYLE — Following the near closure of the PAWS Shelter of Central Texas Kyle location, several allegations were made toward the nonprofit by the PAWS Transparency & Recovery group.PAWS has been ope...]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 15:20:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25883,paws-shelter-discusses-allegations-talks-financial-challenges https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25886,local-state-election-candidates-announcedHAYS COUNTY — Following the filing deadline Monday, Dec. 8, residents can begin to research potential candidates for the spring primary election.The election, which occurs Tuesday, March 3, 2026, will...]]> Wed, 17 Dec 2025 12:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25886,local-state-election-candidates-announced https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25873,flores-cale-named-kyle-mayor-run-off-election-resultsHAYS COUNTY — Following the Dec. 13 run-off election, Yvonne Flores-Cale will serve as Kyle’s new mayor.Several races required a runoff after the Nov. 4 election, as one candidate failed to receive 51...]]> Sat, 13 Dec 2025 20:29:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25873,flores-cale-named-kyle-mayor-run-off-election-results https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25859,christmas-on-mercer-the-most-wonderful-time-of-the-yearHundreds gathered in downtown Dripping Springs Saturday, Dec. 6, to celebrate the holidays during the city’s annual Christmas on Mercer event. Attendees could visit vendor booths, enjoy festive food o...]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:10:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25859,christmas-on-mercer-the-most-wonderful-time-of-the-year https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25852,parent-library-oversight-strengthened-with-senate-bill-13KYLE —  Parents are taking a larger role in their child’s reading material, following the passage of Senate Bill 13.The bill, voted in by the 89th Texas Legislature, focuses on two aspects: a for...]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 15:40:00 -0600 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/25852,parent-library-oversight-strengthened-with-senate-bill-13