West Lake Hills postpones $22 million infrastructure bond, closes city facilities in light of COVID-19

West Lake Hills will postpone its $22 million capital improvement bond election to November as a result of uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

City officials have been working towards the infrastructure bond for years, conducting facility and roadway studies, hosting open houses, recruiting a bond advisory committee and voting last November on a previous delay last. Even so, the election will be postponed for a second time.

Mayor Linda Anthony confirmed in an email to the community March 19 that the city will be postponing the election scheduled for May 2, following a proclamation issued by Gov. Greg Abbott March allowing political subdivisions to postpone their elections to Nov. 3.

In the news release Abbott wrote, "I strongly encourage local election officials to take advantage of these waivers. Right now, the state's focus is responding to COVID-19—including social distancing and avoiding large gatherings. By delaying this election, our local election officials can assist in that effort."

On March 16 Travis Askey, West Lake Hills city administrator, announced the cancellation of all city-sponsored events through April 1, including City Council and Zoning and Planning Commission meetings.

Effective March 23, other city entities, including Administration; Municipal Court; and Building, Planning and Development will also close to the public, according to Anthony, who added that all city business should be conducted through an online service.

The later states that West Lake Hills will provide an additional update to residents March 27.

“In closing, please know that we are constantly monitoring all available information and changing conditions,” Anthony wrote. “We appreciate your patience and understanding as we all work through this unprecedented situation.”