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THE BIG PICTURE
(City of Buda Weekly Newsletter)
Week of June 29, 2020
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In this Issue:
- Red, White & Buda Fireworks Shows - July 4
- Fireworks Prohibited In and Around Buda
- Independence Day Holiday - July 3
- Governor Abbott Establishes Statewide Face Covering Requirement/Issues Proclamation To Limit Gatherings
- Governor Abbott Executive Order Issued June 26
- Hays County Judge Amends Order #4 (Face Covering Order), Prohibits Large Gatherings in Unincorporated Areas - Frequently Asked Questions
- City of Buda Adjusting Operating Procedures - City Will Conduct Business Virtually on Monday and Friday - Starting June 29
- Early Voting - Vote Center Locations - June 29 - July 10
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- Free COVID-19 Testing in Hays County
- Stay Budaful, Mask Up/Buda PD "Rocks the Mask"
- Kenny's Construction Chat - Main Street Update
- John D. and Byrd Mims Garison Memorial Park
- Nighthawk Lift Station Decommissioned
- Buda Counts: Latest Census Self-Response Rates/Message From Pastor James Jacobs on Taking the Census
- COVID-19 Hays County Resources
- COVID-19 Hotline
- COVID-19 Dashboard
- COVID-19 Updates on City of Buda Website
- New Pay By Phone Automated System
- City of Buda E-Billing
- City of Buda Water Smart Portal
- Pet Registration Information
- City of Buda Job Opportunities
- Upcoming Meetings
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Red, White & Buda Fireworks Shows
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Due to COVID-19 concerns we are doing things a little differently this year for Red, White & Buda. While there will be no morning parade or other activities, we will still have a fireworks show. In fact, we are having two shows! Fireworks will be launched from Buda Sportsplex and City Park on July 4th between 9:15 PM and 9:30 PM. For your safety and to ensure social distancing, there will be no parking available to view the fireworks at these locations. City Park and Buda Sportsplex will be closed to the public. We encourage you to watch the fireworks from home or from a safe location where social distancing is observed.
Per Governor Abbott's Executive Order that goes into effect on July 3, Texans in counties with 20 or more COVID-19 cases must wear a face covering over the nose and mouth when inside a commercial entity or other building or space open to the public, or when in an outdoor public space, wherever it is not feasible to maintain six feet of social distancing from another person not in the same household. Please mask up, observe social distancing, and stay safe!
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Fireworks Prohibited In and Around Buda
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With the 4th of July upon us, the City of Buda wanted to remind citizens that fireworks are prohibited in and around Buda. Fireworks cannot be used/detonated or sold in the city limits or within 5,000 feet of the city limits (Extraterritorial Jurisdiction). Violation of the fireworks ordinance carries a fine not to exceed $500, with each occurrence being a separate violation.
You can find the Fireworks Ordinance Article 14.03 below
Sec. 14.03.001 Penalty
Violation of this article and its provisions is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00), with each occurrence being a separate violation. (Ordinance 940906-1, sec. III, adopted 9/6/94)
Sec. 14.03.002 Sale
The sale of all and any variety or type of fireworks is declared a nuisance and is hereby prohibited within the city limits and within five thousand (5,000) feet of the city limits. (Ordinance 2014-14 adopted 5/20/14)
Sec. 14.03.003 Detonation
It is hereby prohibited as a nuisance for any person, other than the city, to sell, use, detonate, or explode any type or variety of fireworks within the city limits and within five thousand (5,000) feet of the city limits without a public display permit meeting all the requirements of this section. A valid public display permit must be:
(1) Issued by the city fire marshal in accordance with section 10.02.009 of this code;
(2) For locations within five thousand (5,000) feet of the city limits; and
(3) For the use, detonation or explosion of fireworks to take place between sunset and 10:00 p.m. on July 4th (Independence Day).
(Ordinance 2015-07, sec. 2, adopted 6/16/15)
Sec. 14.03.004 Defenses
It shall be an affirmative defense to prosecution under this article for a person to sell, use, detonate or explode any type or variety of fireworks within any portion of the 5,000-foot area described in sections 14.03.002 and 14.03.003 if located within the city limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction of any other municipal corporation. (Ordinance 2014-14 adopted 5/20/14)
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All city offices, including the Buda Public Library, are closed on Friday, July 3, 2020 in observance of Independence Day.
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Governor Greg Abbott today issued an Executive Order requiring all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in counties with 20 or more positive COVID-19 cases, with few exceptions. The Governor also issued a proclamation giving mayors and county judges the ability to impose restrictions on some outdoor gatherings of over 10 people, and making it mandatory that, with certain exceptions, people cannot be in groups larger than ten and must maintain six feet of social distancing from others.
"Wearing a face covering in public is proven to be one of the most effective ways we have to slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Abbott. “We have the ability to keep businesses open and move our economy forward so that Texans can continue to earn a paycheck, but it requires each of us to do our part to protect one another—and that means wearing a face covering in public spaces. Likewise, large gatherings are a clear contributor to the rise in COVID-19 cases. Restricting the size of groups gatherings will strengthen Texas’ ability to corral this virus and keep Texans safe. We all have a responsibility to slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep our communities safe. If Texans commit to wearing face coverings in public spaces and follow the best health and safety practices, we can both slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep Texas open for business. I urge all Texans to wear a face covering in public, not just for their own health, but for the health of their families, friends, and for all our fellow Texans.”
𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
Following a verbal or written warning for a first-time violator of this facecovering requirement, a person’s second violation shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $250. Each subsequent violation shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $250 per violation.
Local law enforcement and other local officials, as appropriate, can and should enforce this executive order, Executive Order GA-28, and other effective executive orders, as well as local restrictions that are consistent with this executive order and other effective executive orders. But no law enforcement or other official may detain, arrest, or confine in jail any person for a violation of this executive order or for related non-violent, non-felony offenses that are predicated in a violation of this executive order; provided, however, that any official with authority to enforce this executive order may act to enforce trespassing laws and remove violators at the request of a business establishment or other property owner.
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Governor Abbott Issues New Order Closing Bars, Tubing Businesses, & Limiting Public Gatherings
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Governor Greg Abbott today issued an executive order limiting certain businesses and services as part of the state’s effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. This decision comes as the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 and the number of hospitalizations have increased and the positivity rate in Texas increased above 10%, which the Governor previously stated would lead to further preventative action. The targeted, measured directives in the executive order are based on links between certain types of businesses and services and the recent rise in positive cases throughout the state.
The order includes the following:
- All bars and similar establishments that receive more than 51% of their gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages are required to close. These businesses may remain open for delivery and take-out, including for alcoholic beverages, as authorized by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.
- Restaurants may remain open for dine-in service, but at a capacity not to exceed 50% of total listed indoor occupancy, beginning Monday, June 29, 2020.
- Rafting and tubing businesses must close.
- Outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people must be approved by local governments, with certain exceptions.
“As I said from the start, if the positivity rate rose above 10%, the State of Texas would take further action to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Abbott. “At this time, it is clear that the rise in cases is largely driven by certain types of activities, including Texans congregating in bars. The actions in this executive order are essential to our mission to swiftly contain this virus and protect public health. We want this to be as limited in duration as possible. However, we can only slow the spread if everyone in Texas does their part. Every Texan has a responsibility to themselves and their loved ones to wear a mask, wash their hands, stay six feet apart from others in public, and stay home if they can. I know that our collective action can lead to a reduction in the spread of COVID-19 because we have done it before, and we will do it again.”
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County Judge Amends Order #4, Prohibits Large Gatherings in Unincorporated Areas
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Amid the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra modified his Order #4 that went into effect June 22. That order, among other provisions, requires people to wear masks or face coverings in public places and is in place until July 20.
The amended Order will now also prohibit outdoor gatherings of more than 100 people in the unincorporated areas of Hays County, unless otherwise permitted by recent Governor's Orders.
“This Amendment to Order #4 is one additional way we can help slow the spread of the virus,” Becerra said. “Large gatherings provide an opportunity for COVID-19, which is highly contagious, to be rapidly transmitted to many others within a short timeframe.”
Becerra added that limiting trips/travel/outings, washing hands frequently and staying at least six feet apart from others remain the best ways to slow the spread.
“I’m asking all Hays County residents to do their part to protect the most vulnerable in our community,” he said.
Below is the language from the Amended Order:
Outdoor Gatherings of 100 People or More in the Unincorporated Areas
Gatherings, in the unincorporated areas of Hays County, of 100 people or more, unless otherwise authorized by the Executive Order(s) of Governor Greg Abbott, are prohibited and shall not be authorized by the Hays County Judge.
In accordance with the limitations contained in the executive orders of Governor Greg Abbott, any peace officer or other person with lawful authority is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this Amendment in accordance with the authority granted under the Texas Disaster Act of 1975.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Based on questions received from the public, media, municipalities and local businesses, Hays County compiled the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) to help clarify and provide guidance about the Order. We have included the link below.
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Buda City Facilities - Change in Operating Procedure
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Due to the escalating rise of active COVID-19 cases in Hays County, the City of Buda is adjusting its operating procedures. Staring Monday, June 29, Buda City facilities will be conducting business virtually on Monday and Friday until further notice. This means there will be no walk-ins, with all business being done via telephone and computer. City facilities will be open for public access on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The City of Buda will continue to monitor this evolving situation and make further adjustments if needed.
Although City facilities will be conducting business virtually on Monday and Friday, Buda City Hall will be accessible for early voting in the 2020 July Primary Runoff. Early Voting runs from June 29 to July 10.
On Monday and Friday, you can contact City Departments directly at the numbers below:
Public Works - 512-312-2876
Buda Police Department (Non-Emergency) - 512-393-7896
Parks and Recreation - 512-523-1081
Utility Billing - 512-295-8845
Municipal Court - 512-295-2562
Library - 512-295-5899
Planning, Permitting, and Engineering - 512-312-5745
The Buda Public Library will be open 11:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Thursday and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Saturdays. Public computers will be available to library card holders by appointment; call for details. Curbside pickup will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Library staff will be available by phone from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday. For more information on library services please visit
www.budalibrary.org
.
The Visitor’s Center at Stagecoach House will remain closed to the public. For questions please contact the visitor’s center at 512-295-7170.
Utility billing payments may be paid online here:
https://www.municipalonlinepayments.com/budatx
.
Additional ways to make utility payments include online through your bank, over the phone at 512-295-8845, and by mail to 405 E. Loop St., Building 100, Buda, Texas. Customers can also utilize the utility payment drop boxes at the front entrance of the building and near the library book drop. The utility billing e-mail that residents should use to communicate with utilities is
utilitybilling@ci.buda.tx.us
. We are also now offering
online bill pay
to pay your utility bill. You will be directed to a third party secure external site. You have the option to pay now, schedule a payment and enroll in Auto Pay. There is a $0.85 fee for paying online.
Customers can also pay bills by phone through our automated phone system. Please call 1-866-279-0787.
Additional online resources:
For
Municipal Court
all individuals are
encouraged to call 512-295-2562 or email the court at
budamunicipalcourt@ci.buda.tx.us
on Monday and Friday
in lieu of making personal appearances to handle court related business.
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Although City facilities will be conducting business virtually on Monday and Friday, Buda City Hall will be accessible for early voting in the 2020 July Primary Runoff. Early Voting runs from June 29 to July 10.
𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐕𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟐𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟎 – 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟏𝟎, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟎
Monday, June 29, 2020 – Thursday, July 2, 2020
8 AM – 5 PM
Sunday, July 5, 2020
10 AM – 5 PM
Monday, July 6, 2020 – Friday, July 10, 2020
7 AM- 7 PM
𝐁𝐮𝐝𝐚 𝐕𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Buda City Hall
405 East Loop Street
Building 100
Hays Hills Baptist Church
1401 North FM 1626
** 𝐍𝐨 𝐯𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟑 𝐨𝐫 𝟒 𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐲 **
Election Day: Tuesday, July 14, 2020 - 7 AM – 7 PM
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Free COVID-19 Testing in Hays County
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en more FREE testing days are scheduled for Hays County! Share this with anyone who wants to get tested for COVID-19. No pre-registration needed. Walk-up service. Need not be showing symptoms.
Sun., July 12 to Thursday., July 16
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
San Marcos High School
2601 Rattler Rd, San Marcos
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Buda PD knows how to "Rock the Mask"! Remember to wear a face covering in public and observe social distancing.
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Kenny's Construction Chat: Main Street Update
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Project Manager Kenny Crawford has an update on the Main Street Construction project in the latest "Kenny's Construction Chat" installment.
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John D. and Byrd Mims Garison Memorial Park
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The John D. and Byrd Mims Garison Memorial Park is a nature lovers paradise. Starting July 20th (date is subject to change), you will be able to explore the natural trails at the park by making a reservation through the Parks and Recreation Department. The reservation system will help us limit the amount of people in the park and help us enforce social distancing. Garison Park borders City Park and is made up of approximately 40 acres of parkland. The long-term goal is to develop the park into something comparable to the Wimberley Blue Hole Park. A preliminary design for the park includes parking areas, trails, separate water access areas for swimming, fishing and a canoe/kayak dock area. Other amenities include prairie restoration, wildlife viewing areas and construction of a nature center. In addition, there are plans to connect Garison Park with City Park and Stagecoach Park through a trail system. Please enjoy the virtual tour below!
For more information or to make reservations, please contact Shelby Fletcher at 512-523-1081 or email
sfletcher@ci.buda.tx.us
.
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Nighthawk Lift Station Decommissioned
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The Old Nighthawk Lift Station is, effectively, decommissioned! The project took five days and the old feeder lines back filled with concrete (lower image). The connection of the existing line to a new manhole (upper left) and the installation and connection of a new 20' section of wastewater line into the newer lift station (the green pipe in the upper right image)eliminates a maintenance and cost burden to taxpayers.
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Buda Counts: Latest Census Self-Response Rates
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The City's census self-response rate is now at 71.1%. But let's get that percentage higher Buda! If you haven't filled out the census yet, it's easy. The
#2020Census
can help our community for the next 10 years. Respond online today at
2020CENSUS.GOV
.
#BudaCounts
#Census2020
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Improving your community starts with the
#2020Census
. Your responses inform how billions of dollars in public funding flow into communities. Your responses will also tell how diverse communities are across America. Respond today at
2020census.gov
.
See message below from Pastor James Jacobs with Word of Life Christian Faith Center.
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Hays County has provided a list of resources for residents who have lost their jobs or need food, mental health support, or other assistance due to the COVID-19 pandemic
.
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Hays County has a COVID-19 hotline. The number is
512-393-5525
and it is operational Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM
.
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(The information coming from Hays County will continue to change. Please follow Hays County at
www.haysinformed.com
)
An online dashboard created by City of San Marcos provides the public with a current count and other statistics related to COVID-19 cases in Hays County in near real-time.
The data on the dashboard shows a snapshot of COVID-19 related information for the County, as well as the number of active and recovered cases per City.
For example, the public can see the current number of confirmed cases as of that day. The data includes the cases considered active or in recovery, along with the number of tests administered. The data is also available in map format.
County residents may visit
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As a reminder, you can visit the City's website at
www.ci.buda.tx.us/coronavirusinformation
for the latest on COVID-19. This page includes the Governor's Order, Hays County Order, and Mayor George Haehn order. We have also embedded the COVID-19 Dashboard from Hays County with the latest number of cases.
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Pay By Phone Automated System
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The City of Buda has launched a new way for customers to pay bills by phone. You will be able to call 1-866-279-0787 and pay through an automated system over the phone.
- Save postage by paying your bill by phone.
- Access your updated account instantly.
- Hear real-time balances, payment amounts, and due dates
- Enter your information securely through an automated system
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City of Buda WaterSmart Customer Portal Open
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Minor water leaks account for more than 1 trillion gallons of wasted water each year
.
Sign up for leak alerts.
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Pet Registration Information
Buda Animal Control
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Due to COVID-19, Buda Animal Control is taking some extra precautions to make it easier and safer for you to register your pet. If you need to have a microchip implanted you MUST first schedule an appointment then complete the required forms and submit all required documentation at least two days before your scheduled appointment. Once you arrive please remain in your vehicle and call 512-523-1034 and let us know that you are out front. The microchip and registration is free through September 30 and registration will be for the lifetime of the pet. You will need to keep vaccinations up to date.
Per City Ordinance, all animals over the age of four (4) months must be implanted with a microchip and registered with the City of Buda.
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City of Buda
Job Opportunities
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Interested in joining our team? Check out our latest employment opportunities.
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Thank you for subscribing to "The Big Picture" weekly newsletter! It's a "Budaful" way to keep up with the latest City news.
Sincerely,
City of Buda
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405. E Loop St., Building 100
Buda, TX 78610
512-312-0084
Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
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