Burnet City Manager
The May 13 meeting of the Burnet City Council began with the council canvassing and certifying the results of the May 3 General Election. Gary Wideman was re-elected as mayor, while Ricky Langley, Joyce Laudenschlager, and Tres Clinton were all re-elected to serve as council members. All were sworn in to begin their new two-year terms.
CAF Update
Council received an update from the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Highland Lakes Squadron, which has welcomed more than 1,300 museum visitors since August and continues to host educational events and tributes to veterans.
BEDC appointments The council approved new appointments to the Burnet Economic Development Corporation (BEDC). Matt Kelley was named to replace Cary Johnson, who retired from the board, and Joshua Milam, Councilmember Ricky Langley, and City Manager David Vaughn were all reappointed to continue serving.
Terminating Lease
The city council voted to end the lease for the current city hall building at 1001 Buchanan Drive. This action was taken in anticipation of relocating to the new city hall, currently under construction at 301 East Jackson Street, with the move expected in early fall. The mayor is now authorized to give official notice to the landlord, with the lease ending on Nov. 30, 2025.
Strategic Priorities
Council also adopted seven strategic priorities
to guide future planning and budgeting: Beautification, Historic Downtown Square, Parks & Recreation, Public Safety, Smart Growth, Water Resource Management, and Street Improvements. These priorities were developed over a threemonth period with input from council workshops, staff, and a community survey.
Rail Line Opposition The council approved a resolution opposing a proposed 26.9-mile rail line through Burnet and Lampasas counties. Citing public safety concerns, noise, air quality, and potential environmental damage, the city formally stated its opposition to the project.
Secure Medical Storage The council authorized the purchase of three new secure medical storage units (Knox Med- Vaults) for the fire department.
These specialized units are used to securely store and monitor access to medications, including narcotics used in emergency medical services.
Infrastructure Actions Finally, council approved three major infrastructure actions. A $1.5 million contract was awarded for the Wood Street Improvements Project, with construction expected to be completed by early fall. The project includes rebuilding 3,500 feet of Wood Street and 1,270 feet of Northington Street, with upgrades to pavement, drainage, curbs, and striping. Council also approved moving forward with the Wofford Street Waterline Project, funded by a $500,000 grant and matching city funds. This project will install a 16-inch waterline to better connect the city’s east and west water systems. A Utility Oversizing Agreement was also approved with Commercial National Bank. To support future growth, the city requested that a required waterline be upsized from 8 inches to 12 inches, with the city covering the additional cost. Back in March, the Burnet Splash Pad received a fresh coat of paint and the city is excited to announce that it will open for the season on Saturday, May 24. Located at the YMCA of the Highland Lakes, the splash pad will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. – perfect for cooling off all summer long. (If you notice any maintenance issues while visiting, please contact the City of Burnet Public Works Department at 512-756-2402.
The next meeting of the city council will be held on May 27 at 6 p.m.
