The Marble Falls City Council has taken a significant step toward the development of the Manzano Mile subdivision, a 253-acre mixed-use project. During its recent meeting, the council unanimously approved an agreement with Rockspring Development LLC to move forward with the project, which will feature 1,500 homes, commercial spaces, public parks, and trails.
Key Features of the Manzano Mile Development
City officials have highlighted several major components of the project:
- Mixed-Use Development: Includes 1,500 residential units, commercial spaces, parks, and trails.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: The developer will invest $625,000 in wastewater improvements.
- Public Parks: Rockspring will allocate $2 million for 18 acres of parkland.
- Water Storage Facility: The city plans to build a 500,000-gallon water storage tank at the site.
The funding for these improvements is dependent on the approval of the Manzano Mile Public Improvement District (PID), which would allow the issuance of $50 million in bonds. A public hearing on the PID is scheduled for February 18, 2025.
Councilmember Craig Magerkurth humorously suggested adding two more lanes at H-E-B, referring to the popular grocery store near FM 1431. His remark drew laughter from attendees.
City Moves Forward with Fire Station No. 2
The council also voted 5-1 to hire Martinez Architectural LLC, a San Antonio-based firm, to design Fire Station No. 2. The station will be built on a three-acre site near Flatrock Boulevard and the future Thunder Rock Boulevard.
Fire Station Details:
- Size: Between 8,500 and 9,000 square feet
- Location: Provides quick access to Texas 71 and U.S. 281
- Budget: No more than $425,000 (funded through 2024 sales revenue)
- Groundbreaking: Expected November 2025
Mayor Dave Rhodes opposed the decision, criticizing the $50 per square foot cost and suggesting that local architects could complete the project at a lower cost. However, Councilmembers Bryan Walker and Griff Morris defended the budget, arguing that fire stations require durable, high-quality materials due to constant use.
City Manager Mike Hodge added that the city had sought local architects but found none suitable for the project.
$500,000 Grant for Infrastructure Improvements
City Engineer Jeff Prato informed the council that Marble Falls has received a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Texas Department of Agriculture. The funds will be used for improvements in the Avenue N area, including:
- Asphalt and concrete repairs
- Curb and gutter replacements
- Manhole repairs and wastewater line reconnections
The city will contribute an additional $50,000 from its Fiscal Year 2025 budget to support the project.
Other Key Decisions from the Council Meeting
General Election Scheduled for May 3, 2025
The council officially scheduled a general election to elect a mayor and three council members for two-year terms. The following seats are up for re-election:
- Mayor – Dave Rhodes
- Place 2 – Karlee Hubble
- Place 4 – Bryan Walker
- Place 6 – Craig Magerkurth
Rick Edwards Day of Service Proclaimed
The council proclaimed February 14 as “Rick Edwards Day of Service”, honoring the late Rick Edwards, a former Marble Falls Independent School District Board member and respected community leader. Mayor Rhodes presented the proclamation to Kim Edwards, his wife.
City Development Director Announces Retirement
Kim Foutz, the City Director of Development Services, announced her retirement at the end of February. She will be succeeded by Assistant Development Services Director Scarlett Moreno.
Looking Ahead
The Marble Falls City Council continues to drive major infrastructure, residential, and commercial projects forward. The upcoming public hearing on February 18, 2025, for the Manzano Mile Public Improvement District (PID) will be crucial in determining the future of the $50 million development.
With improvements in housing, emergency services, and infrastructure, Marble Falls is poised for significant growth in the coming years.
