What you need to know
During its Nov. 20 quarterly update, the Downtown Hutto Business Association told council members that several longstanding incentive programs—the property tax rebate, historic preservation tax freeze and facade improvement program—have not been updated in decades, creating confusion for applicants.
DHBA representative Gracie Matthews said inconsistent criteria have led to mixed results over the years.
“Some residential houses got a brand-new roof through this grant,” she told the council, noting that the organization wants clearer standards focused on downtown rehabilitation.
The details
Matthews said DHBA members need a clear, step-by-step path for how to apply for incentives.
“We are asking for a clear path forward of how we access and apply for these incentives,” she said.
The group has grown to 30 members and is now formally organizing bylaws, nonprofit registration, and finance and event committees.
DHBA leaders said downtown activation efforts are working—but long-term stability requires updating policies tied to renovation and infrastructure, not just events.
“Events are good, traffic is good, but how do we actually make it sustainable?” Matthews said.
What’s next
The updated incentive policy is expected to be presented at the Dec. 4 Hutto City Council meeting, where council may review revised criteria and application procedures. The DHBA plans to return with additional feedback in early 2026.
Also on the agenda
The Hutto City Council approved a tax incentive agreement on to support The Story Emporium & Bookshop.
The agreement will reimburse the business up to $31,600 in sales taxes to help cover renovation costs for the 1,800-square-foot space.
According to a city of Hutto news release, the shop has already become a popular stop downtown, offering books, drinks, snacks and space for community events.
Economic Development Director Cheney Gamboa said the incentive supports the kind of small, local businesses the city wants to see grow in the historic district.
“This project adds a unique, community-focused destination to our growing Historic District,” Gamboa said.
The owners paid for the renovations themselves, and the city’s support is meant to help the business get established and succeed long term.
