Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) is the Land of the Free Adoptions this weekend. WCRAS invites the public to their free adoption event this Memorial Day weekend from Saturday, May 25th to Monday, May 27th. All pets older than 6 months will be available for a free adoption.

Williamson County offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, in observance of Memorial Day.  All county operations will resume regular hours on Tuesday, May 28, 2013.  Several events to honor our military service personnel, both past and present, are being planned in Williamson County during the Memorial

Williamson County, the Upper Brushy Creek Water Control and Improvement District, and the City of Cedar Park are partnering on a project to design and construct a ten foot wide permanent alternate trail route for the Brushy Creek Regional Trail. Residents are invited to attend a “Come and Go” Open House that will provide more information on the projects. The Open House is scheduled from 5 to 7 pm at the Pavilions in Champion Park on May 30, 2013.

The Williamson County Purchasing Department will move to its new location at 901 S Austin Ave on Friday, May 17.  The office will not be closed for the move.  The phone number will remain 512-943-3553.

Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) in cooperation with multiple rescue groups will host “Bark N Purr,” a major adoption event from 10:00a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on May 18th, 2013 at their shelter on 1855 S. E. Inner Loop, Georgetown, TX.

The public is invited to enjoy Coffee With the Commissioner, a come and go event hosted by Precinct 1 Commissioner Lisa Birkman.  The event will be held from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 23, at the J.B. and Hallie Jester Williamson County Annex, located at 1801 East Old Settlers Boulevard, in Round Rock.  Coffee and light refreshments will be served.

Voters in Williamson County will vote Saturday, May 11, in the Joint General and Special Elections.  Williamson County will take part in the Texas Secretary of State’s countywide polling place program utilizing vote centers for the May 11 election.   The program will eliminate county election precinct polling places and establish countywide polling places or vote centers so that voters can go to any voting location on Election Day.  Under the program, voting will be all electronic.   A list of vote center locations and sample ballots are available at www.wilco.org/elections. 

On April 17, Williamson County refunded $71,465,000 in limited tax and pass-through financing bonds for a savings of $7,600,832 over the life of the debt.  The County lowered its interest rates on the bonds from between 4-5 percent to 2.982 percent. 

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, May 23, 2013,  from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  The safety seat check, sponsored by Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare, will take place at the Leander Central Fire Station located at 201 Brushy Street North. 

The Hutto Police Department and Williamson County Emergency Medical Services,  will be conducting a car safety seat event for area residents on Saturday, May 18, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  The safety seat check will take place at Nadine Johnson Elementary School located at 480 Carl Stern Drive, Hutto.

Voters in Williamson County will be able to begin early voting for the May 11 Joint General and Special Elections on Monday, April 29.  Early voting ends Tuesday, May 7.  No early voting is available on Sunday, May 5.  Williamson County will take part in the Texas Secretary of State’s countywide polling place program for the May 11 election.   The program will eliminate county election precinct polling places and establish countywide polling places or vote centers so that voters can go to any voting location on Election Day.  Under the program, voting will be all electronic.  The early voting schedule along with dates and times for the county's Vote Center locations is posted on the County Elections website at www.wilco.org/elections. 

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Georgetown office location will close to the public two days due to a renovation move on Tuesday, April 30, and Wednesday, May 1, 2013.  All other locations will operate under normal business hours. We encourage customers needing in-person assistance to visit one of our other office locations.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate closings for staff training. All other locations will open regular business hours. The office closing schedule is as follows:   
•    Tuesday, April 9 - Round Rock Tax Office, 1801 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
•    Wednesday, April 10 - Georgetown Tax Office, 904 S. Main St.
•    Thursday, April 11 - Cedar Park Tax Office, 350 Discovery Blvd., and Taylor Tax Office, 412 Vance St.

On March 19, 2013, the Williamson County Commissioners Court appointed a committee of nine people to serve on the 2013 Bond Advisory Committee.  The first public meeting of the committee will be held on Wednesday, April 10, 6 p.m., at the historic Williamson County Courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, Georgetown, in the Commissioners Courtroom.   A copy of the meeting agenda can be found at www.wilco.org/bondcommittee.

Taylor Family Services and the Williamson County Emergency Medical Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, April 25, from 1 to 4 p.m.  The safety seat check, sponsored by Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare, will take place at the Old Taylor High School located at 3101 N. Main, Taylor.

County Judge Dan A. Gattis lifted the burn ban for unincorporated areas of Williamson County today, Wednesday, April 3, 2013.  Even though the burn ban has been lifted, no outdoor burning of combustible materials will be allowed during Critical Fire Danger Days and Red Flag Warning Days.  To view the current fire danger status, go to the Texas Forest Service website and click on Fire Danger/Drought.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court proclaimed April 1 as April Pools Day.  On April Pools Day, the Williamson County Child Fatality Review Team and Williamson County Emergency Medical Services work to educate the public on drowning prevention and related water safety issues.   In 2011, Williamson County had nine near drownings and no deaths, and in 2012, the county had 10 near drownings and no deaths

Judge Bill Gravell Jr., Justice of the Peace for Precinct 3, announces new extended office hours effective Tuesday, April 2, 2013.  The office will be open from 7:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., remaining open during the noon hour to assist walk-in customers with fine payments.  All other transactions will be handled during normal business hours.  

Williamson County Precinct 1 Constable Robert Chody graduated from the FBI National Academy Program at Quantico, Virginia, on March 22, 2013.  Chody was among 268 law enforcement officers that graduated in the 252nd Session of the National Academy consisting of men and women from 49 states.

Make plans to explore River Ranch County Park, one of Williamson County’s premier native parklands, on Saturday, April 27.  This is a unique opportunity to experience the undeveloped property comprised of more than 1,000 acres of meadowlands, wetlands and hills located between Leander and Liberty Hill off CR 282.  Currently, the park is not open to the public on a daily basis.

Grab a two or four-legged running buddy on Sunday, April 14, and head to the 4th Annual Woof Walk & Wrun 5k at the Southwest Williamson County Regional Park at 8:30 a.m.  All event proceeds will benefit Jane’s Fund for animals brought to the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter with treatable injuries, like Gertie, whose life was recently transformed from pained to pampered.

All Williamson County offices will be closed on Friday, March 29, 2013, for Good Friday.  County operations will resume regular hours on Monday, April 1, 2013.  The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter will be open on Good Friday and on Saturday, March 30, but will be closed on Easter Sunday, March 31.

Williamson County is back on top and once again ranked as the healthiest county in Texas.  The 2013 County Health Rankings list Williamson County as the healthiest place to live among 232 Texas counties.  All of the counties were ranked using a variety of data including health outcomes, in which Williamson County ranked number one, and health factors, in which the county ranked number three.

To read more about the health rankings, click here.

On Tuesday, March 19, 2013, the Williamson County Commissioners Court issued a burn ban for 30 days.  The County Judge was given the authority to lift the burn ban during this time if conditions improve.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court today appointed Kevin Stofle as the new Precinct 3 Constable.  Constable Bobby Gutierrez resigned effective March 19, 2013, after serving 14 years in the position. 

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, March 28, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  To make an appointment for the March 28 event, please call 512-943-1264, before noon on Monday, March 26, 2013.

The Texas Secretary of State approved Williamson County’s application to take part in their countywide polling place program.   The program will eliminate county election precinct polling places and establish countywide polling places or vote centers so that voters can go to any voting location on Election Day.

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) is celebrating their 6^th anniversary on Thursday and Friday, March 14 and 15, to celebrate six outstanding years at their S.E. Inner Loop location in Georgetown. 

Williamson County is hosting its third Learn to Fish event in the Southwest Williamson County Regional Park, 3005 CR 175, on Saturday, April 6, 2013, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.  Children of all ages will be able to spend time learning various fishing tips and techniques from local experts at this free event. 

County Judge Dan A. Gattis lifted the burn ban in Williamson County today, Monday, March 11, 2013.

The Office of Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2 will be closed for staff training starting Wednesday, March 13, through Friday, March 15, 2013.  All due dates and Criminal appearance dates are extended to Tuesday, March 19.

Williamson County Precinct 3 Constable Bobby Gutierrez resigned effective March 19, and the Commissioners Court will be appointing a new constable to replace him.  Anyone interested in submitting their resume for the position should send it to the office of County Judge Dan A. Gattis by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s offices will be closed next week, March 12 to March 14, on a rotating schedule for training.  While one office is closed, other office locations will be open regular business hours.

Williamson County Veterans Services has started an official Facebook page.  The direct link is www.facebook.com/wilcovets/ .

The public is invited to attend a ceremony and reception for newly appointed Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace Bill Gravell Jr. on Tuesday, March 5, 2013, at 3 p.m. in the 425th District Courtroom in the Williamson County Justice Center, 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, in Georgetown.

On Tuesday, February 26, 2013, the Williamson County Commissioners Court issued a burn ban for 30 days.  The County Judge was given the authority to lift the burn ban during this time if conditions improve.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court voted today to appoint Bill Gravell Jr. as Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace effective March 1, 2013.   Judge Steve Benton is retiring effective February 28, 2013.   His term ends December 31, 2014.

Williamson County Juvenile Services (WCJS) has received a grant for $12,500 from the Mustang Heritage Foundation. This partnership will provide a collaborative framework of creative programs to draw attention to the plight of the American Mustang while promoting emotional and behavioral change in the juveniles participating in a variety of grant activities.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, February 28, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  The safety seat check, sponsored by Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare, will take place at the St. David’s Georgetown Hospital located at 2000 Scenic Drive, Georgetown. 

Williamson County is accepting applications for funding through the Community Development Block Grant program now through April 2, 2013.  A public hearing will be held by the Williamson County CDBG office on Tuesday, February 26, 2013, at 5:30 p.m. at the Williamson County Historic Courthouse located at 710 Main Street, Georgetown, Texas 78626.

All Williamson County offices will be closed on Monday, February 18, 2013, in observance of Presidents Day.   County operations will resume regular hours on Tuesday, February 19, 2013.

In hopes of making heartwarming matches, the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter will be posting Canine Cupid & Purrsonal Ads for selected special cats and dogs in their shelter. From February 11th to 17th, adopters can browse through the ads, go on speed dates at the shelter, and find the companionship they have always wished for. Plus, the adoption is free for these furry valentines. The adoption fee for all other pets during this week is $14.

Williamson County will hold a public hearing to receive comments on participating in the Secretary of State’s Countywide Polling Place program on Monday, February 11, 2013, in the Commissioners Courtroom in the historic courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, in Georgetown from 6 to 8 p.m.  The program will eliminate county election precinct polling places and establish countywide polling places or vote centers so that voters can go to any voting location on Election Day.

Williamson County Justice of the Peace Precinct 3 Steve Benton today addressed the Commissioners Court and submitted a letter announcing his retirement effective February 28, 2013.  The Commissioners Court will appoint a person to fulfill the remainder of his term which ends December 31, 2014.  The County Judge’s Office will be accepting resumes for individuals interested in serving in this position.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor Collector’s Georgetown office location will close to the public two days due to a renovation move tentatively Tuesday, February 5, and Wednesday, February 6, 2013.

Williamson County Clerk Nancy Rister has had an audit conducted of the County’s Official Public Records (OPR).  This audit is the first of its type for the State of Texas; however, these audits have been conducted in other states.  The results of the audit revealed hundreds of issues involving suspect robosigning, suspect surrogate signing, suspect notary fraud and suspect forgery.

The National Weather Service is looking for volunteers who want to become trained storm spotters.  These spotters learn to identify and report severe weather conditions and potentially dangerous storm activities before they occur.  The Williamson County Office of Emergency Management will host the Basic SKYWARN course on Wednesday, January 30, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the JB and Hallie Jester Annex, 1801 East Old Settlers Blvd in Round Rock.
 

Mark Nayden was awarded the new contract as tennis pro manager for the Williamson County Tennis Center at the Southwest Williamson County Regional Park, 3005 C.R. 175, Leander.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Office reminds property owners that Thursday January 31, 2013, is the state mandated deadline to pay 2012 property taxes.  Any payments postmarked or carried into the office on or after February 1 will be charged penalty and interest.  Mailed payments should be sent to 904 S. Main St., Georgetown, TX, 78626.

All Williamson County offices will be closed on Monday, January 21, 2013, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.   County operations will resume regular hours on Tuesday, January 22.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate opening one hour later in the morning at 9 a.m. for staff training. All other locations will be open regular business hours. The office 9 a.m. opening schedule is as follows: 
• Tuesday, January 15 - Round Rock Tax Office, 1801 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
• Wednesday, January 16 - Georgetown Tax Office, 904 S. Main St.
• Thursday, January 17 - Cedar Park Tax Office, 350 Discovery Blvd., and Taylor Tax Office, 412 Vance St.

County Judge Dan A. Gattis lifted the burn ban in Williamson County today, Tuesday, January 8, 2013. 

Waste Management offers free tree recycling at the Williamson County Landfill & Recycling Center through January 12.  The Williamson County Landfill provides the mulch to Williamson County residents at no charge.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, January 24, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  The safety seat check, sponsored by Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare, will take place at the Leander Central Fire Station located at 201 Brushy Street North.

On Tuesday, December 18, the Williamson County Commissioners Court approved an extension of the current burn ban.  The burn ban is extended for 30 days from Tuesday until January 18, 2012.  The County Judge was given the authority to lift the burn ban during this time if conditions improve.  Due to extremely dry and windy weather conditions, which increase the potential for wildfires, the Texas Pyrotechnic Association has voluntarily agreed not to sell fireworks with “Sticks and Fins,” which pose the greatest wildfire danger.

The public is invited to attend each of the swearing in ceremonies for Williamson County elected officials.   The first ceremony for multiple officials will be held on Tuesday, January 1, 2013.  Constables will be sworn in on Wednesday, January 2, 2013, at 10 a.m.  Commissioner Lisa Birkman will be sworn in at January 2 at 3 p.m.

Williamson County Constables’ Offices in Precincts 2, 3 and 4 will open at noon on January 2, 2013, following their swearing-in ceremony. Only the Precinct 1 Constable’s Office, 1801 E. Old Settlers, Round Rock, will open at regular business hours at 8 a.m.  The public is invited to attend the constables’ swearing-in ceremony at 10 a.m. on January 2, 2013, at the Justice Center, 405 MLK, in Georgetown.  The constables and their deputies will be sworn into office in mass by Judge Tim Wright in his County Court-At-Law #2 courtroom.

The Office of Justice of the Peace Steve Benton, Precinct 3, will be closed from Monday, December 24, through Wednesday, December 26, 2012.  Normal business hours will resume on Thursday, December 27, 2012, at 9 a.m.

The offices of Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 will be closed to the public the week of December 24 to 28, 2012.    The office will reopen January 2, 2013.  All appearance and due dates are extended to January 11, 2013. 

Williamson County offices will be closed for the following holidays:
Christmas Eve  Monday  December 24, 2012
Christmas Day Tuesday  December 25, 2012
New Year’s Eve  Monday  December 31, 2012
New Year’s Day Tuesday  January 1, 2013

Due to extremely dry and windy weather conditions, which increase the potential for wildfires, the Williamson County Commissioners Court has issued a burn ban.  However, there is not a fireworks ban in place for Williamson County.  State law allows for a commissioners court to ban the use of certain fireworks normally referred to as “Sticks and Fins” if the Keetch Byrum Drought Index (KBDI) reached a county average of 575 by December 15.  Currently the KBDI is 564, which is below the mandated level, so no ban can be implemented.  While residents are still able to buy many types of consumer fireworks, the Texas Pyrotechnic Association has voluntarily agreed not to sell “Sticks and Fins,” which pose the greatest wildfire danger. 

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate opening one hour late at 9 a.m. for staff training.  All other locations will be open regular business hours.

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter has teamed with thousands of animal organizations from around the world to participate in the annual Iams Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption campaign through January 2, 2013.  The shelter offers $12 adoptions for all dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens placed in homes in December as part of the promotion.

Inspired by the book by Greg Kincaid and Hallmark movie “A Dog Named Christmas”, the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter will be offering an opportunity for families to foster healthy animals over the Christmas holiday.  Any family or individual that would like to be a foster home for a dog or cat from December 22 to January 2 can apply to be a foster parent through the shelter’s website at www.wilcopets.org.

On Tuesday, December 4, the Williamson County Commissioners Court approved a burn ban for 30 days.  The County Judge was given the authority to lift the burn ban during this time if conditions improve.

The Office of Williamson County Constable Robert Chody, Precinct 1, will be conducting their annual Brown Santa Toy Drive Thursday, December 6, at the intersection of Avery Ranch/Parmer Lane (Walgreen's) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cash donations and unwrapped toys for all ages and genders would be graciously accepted.

Get your pet’s photo taken with Santa during the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) Santa Paws event, Saturday, December 1, and Sunday, December 2.  Purchase gifts for your pets and loved ones during the shelter’s Neiman Barkus shopping event Saturday, December 8, and Sunday, December 9.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved an allocation of approximately $35 million in remaining road bond funds for road improvement projects.  According to Mike Weaver with Prime Strategies, the County’s road bond manager, there is $35.99 million in available funding remaining from the 2006 voter approved road bonds from unallocated funds, outstanding invoices with partnering governmental  agencies and from projects that were completed under budget.

Williamson County and Waste Management announced the Williamson County Landfill and Recycling Center will be closed on the following dates in observance of the holidays:
• Thanksgiving:   Thursday, November 22
• Christmas Day:   Tuesday, December 25
• New Year’s Day:  Tuesday, January 1

Santa rides into Wolf Ranch Town Center, IH-35 and SH 29 in Georgetown, on Saturday, November 24, to light the Christmas tree and take photos with all of his friends!  The event includes music and refreshments 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Christmas tree by the fireplace.  Santa will be available for photos after lighting the tree at 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.  Photos are $7 and benefit the Williamson County Brown Santa program and the Simon Youth Foundation.  Santa will be escorted into Wolf Ranch Town Center by the Blue Knights law enforcement motorcycle club. 

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) has started its own YouTube channel to showcase promotions and pets.  The link is http://www.youtube.com/user/WilcoPetsTX.  The first video posted to the new site is a Thanksgiving special running now through November 22.  All pet adoptions are just $20. 

Celebrate the holiday season on the day after Thanksgiving at the annual Lighting of the Square event on Friday, November 23.  The event will be held on the east steps of the historic Williamson County Courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, in downtown Georgetown.  The festivities include entertainment from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. 

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate opening at 9 a.m. next week for an hour of staff training in the morning.  All other locations will open regular business hours.  The 9 a.m. office opening schedule is as follows:
• Wednesday, November 14 - Georgetown Tax Office, 904 S. Main St.
• Thursday, November 15 - Cedar Park Tax Office, 350 Discovery Blvd., and Taylor Tax Office, 412 Vance St.
• Friday, November 16 – Round Rock Tax Office, 1801 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
Information about the Tax Assessor/Collector’s office, including approximate wait times at various locations, can be found at http://www.wilco.org/tabid/1912/language/en-US/Default.aspx.

Wednesday, November 14, is National Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day, the annual salute to geospatial technology.  On this day, users of GIS technology demonstrate real-world applications that are transforming our society.  As part of National Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Day and Geography Awareness Week, Williamson County staff will be hosting a map gallery in the District Courtroom in the Historic Williamson County Courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, on the square in Georgetown on Tuesday, November 13, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. This event is open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend. The map gallery will showcase maps used by many different county departments, and staff will be on hand to explain the different maps and applications of GIS technologies.

Williamson County offices will be closed on Monday, November 12, 2012, for the Veterans Day holiday.  Offices will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, November 13.  For a list of Veterans Day activities and specials, visit the Veterans Services website,   County offices also will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 22, 2012, and Friday, November 23, 2012.  The Commissioners Court will not be meeting on Tuesday, November 27, 2012.

Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) has committed itself with working towards and maintaining a no-kill status. However, the number of animals coming into the shelter is steadily increasing, while the support from other rescue groups and owner’s reclaiming their animals is decreasing. This is putting the dogs and cats of the shelter at risk for euthanasia due to space constraints.

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in Williamson County.  In 2012, an estimated 43,920 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the United States, and 37,390 will die from the disease.  Approximately 2,240 deaths will occur in Texas.  The fight is on to help find a cure for Pancreatic Cancer.  Please show your support during the month of November, Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, by adding a little “PURPLE” to your day.   

Property tax statements will be mailed October 25th, 2012, according to Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector Deborah M. Hunt.  The County Tax Assessor/Collector’s office sends out tax bills on behalf of most of the taxing entities.  Duplicate statements are not mailed to property owners who have their taxes escrowed by their lender.  

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and Baby Earth in Round Rock will have a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Wednesday, December 12, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 106 East Old Settlers Boulevard, Round Rock.

The Williamson County Purchasing Office was the recipient of the 2012 Achievement of Excellence in Public Purchasing Award.  This is the 13th consecutive year Williamson County has received this award. 

On Saturday, October 27, 2012, Williamson County will hold its National Public Lands Day event that was rescheduled due to weather.  The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department, along with Discover Green – Young Environmental Leaders and REI-Round Rock, will be removing weeds from planting beds, maintaining a playground area and removing litter at the Southwest Williamson County Regional Park.

On Monday, October 22, the Williamson County Conservation Foundation, on behalf of Williamson County, will be submitting its official comments to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service) in the form of a 200-plus page technical response to the Proposed Rule to list three species of salamanders affecting Williamson County.  It summarizes and updates the best available scientific information on the status of the Jollyville Plateau salamander (Eurycea tonkawae), Georgetown salamander (E. naufragia), and Salado salamander (E. chisholmensis).  

Williamson County Juvenile Services, in conjunction with the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Subcommittee of the Williamson County Mental Health Taskforce, is hosting the 2nd Annual Mental Health in Schools Conference.  The conference will be held October 25 and 26, 2012, in the Main Training Room of the Juvenile Justice Center, 1821 SE Inner Loop, Georgetown, TX 78626, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. both days.  This year’s conference is titled Assessing Needs and Building Strengths: Collaboratively, and conference presentations include, “Motivational Interviewing”, “Empowering Responsible Student Decision-Making”, “Community Resource Coordination” and “Improving Student Outcomes through Facilitated Self-Assessment”.  

Voters in Williamson County will be able to begin early voting for the November 6, 2012, Joint General and Special Election on Monday, October 22.  During early voting, voters are allowed to vote at any polling location in their county.  On Election Day, voters must vote at their specific precinct location.  The early voting schedule along with dates and times for the county's locations is posted below and on the County Elections website at www.wilco.org/elections. 

The Office of Justice of the Peace Judy Schier Hobbs, Precinct 4, will be closed from Monday, October 22, through Wednesday, October 24, for court personnel training.

The Office of Justice of the Peace Steve Benton, Precinct 3, will be closed from Monday, October 22, through Wednesday, October 24, for court personnel training.  Normal business hours will resume on Thursday, October 25, 2012, at 9 a.m.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Williamson County District Clerk’s Office is honoring those who have fought or are currently fighting the disease.  In the District Clerk’s Office, a wall has been decorated to celebrate and honor those who valiantly fought breast cancer with their names placed on pink ribbons.

Enjoy a fun filled day of exploration at the 4th Annual Dinosaur Day at Champion Park!  The event will be held on Saturday, October 13, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.  All the activities will be free and open to the public. Commemorative t-shirts will be sold for a reasonable price.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate opening at 9 a.m. next week for an hour of staff training in the morning.  All other locations will open regular business hours.  The 9 a.m. office opening schedule is as follows:
• Tuesday, October 16 - Round Rock Tax Office, 1801 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
• Wednesday, October 17 - Georgetown Tax Office, 904 S. Main St.
• Thursday, October 18 - Cedar Park Tax Office, 350 Discovery Blvd., and Taylor tax office, 412 Vance St.

The disc golf course at Southwest Williamson County Regional Park will reopen for play on Saturday, October 6, 2012. 

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and Taylor ISD Family Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, October 25, 2012, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the parking lot of the Old Taylor High School located at 3101 North Main, Taylor, TX.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Williamson County.  In 2012, 468 adults and 20 juveniles were prosecuted for domestic violence assault cases.  Individuals needing assistance or wanting to help victims of domestic violence can contact Hope Alliance at 1-800-460-SAFE (7233) or www.hopealliancetx.org. 

October is Adopt-A- Shelter Dog Month at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS).  This month, the shelter offers reduced adoption fees that correspond to the day of the month, i.e., on October 7 all dog adoptions will be only $7.

Prepare to be scared at Williamson County Brown Santa’s Nightmare on Jail Hill, a haunted house held in the old jail.  The event will be held two weekends on October 19 and 20 and October 26 and 27 from 7 to 11 p.m.  The price is $10/adults and $5/9-12 years.  Children 8 and under are not allowed.  Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter will be expanding its hours to better serve the community.  Starting Monday, October 1, the Regional Animal Shelter will be open Mondays from noon to 6 p.m. and weekends 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  To celebrate the new hours, all animal adoptions will be free on Monday, October 1.

Join the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter’s third annual Denim and Diamonds Fur Ball at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 20th. The gala will be held at La Frontera’s Marriott North, 2600 La Frontera Boulevard, Round Rock, Texas, and will include dinner, a silent auction, and music by JC Productions.

The Clean Air Force of Central Texas (CAF) has issued an Ozone Watch alert for Thursday, September 20. As a participant in the CAF, Williamson County urges citizens, businesses, schools, and government offices to observe this watch condition. Reminder signs will be posted at public buildings and strategic locations throughout the county.  Individuals with chronic lung disease, such as asthma and emphysema, as well as the elderly and young children, are particularly sensitive to ground-level ozone and should attempt to avoid exposure by minimizing exertion outdoors.

Williamson County Judge Dan A. Gattis has lifted the burn ban for Williamson County effective 5 p.m. on September 13, 2012.

Enjoy a fun filled day of exploration at the 4th Annual Dinosaur Day at Champion Park!  The event will be held on Saturday, October 13, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and includes free hot dogs and chips, entertainment, an inflatable playhouse and other activities for the children.  All the activities will be free and open to the public.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved a burn ban for 30 days beginning September 11, 2012.  The County Judge was given the authority to lift the burn ban during this time if conditions improve.

A new pedestrian bridge over Brushy Creek at 183A is now open to the public!  Williamson County, the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (Mobility Authority) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) constructed the bicycle/pedestrian bridge to connect the Williamson County Brushy Creek Regional Trail to the 183A Shared-Use Path underneath the 183A South Brushy Creek Bridge. 

Scott Parker, director for Williamson County Emergency Communications, was honored by the Williamson County and Cities Health District (WCCHD) Board of Health September 6. 2012.  Parker received a certificate of appreciation from WCCHD as the former chair of the Capitol Area Public Health and Medical Preparedness Coalition.

September is National Suicide Prevention Month.  Williamson County is hosting a Suicide Prevention Month Ceremony on Tuesday, September 18, at 9 a.m. on the south steps of the historic courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, Georgetown.  All interested members of the public are invited to attend. 

The Williamson County Office of Emergency Management urges county residents to postpone any scheduled outside burning over the weekend, September 7-9, 2012.  The National Weather Service has issued a FIRE WEATHER WATCH for Central Texas to include Williamson County. A Fire Weather Watch means that conditions will be favorable for an increase in fire behavior within the next 48-72 hours, as the conditions develop a Red Flag Warning may be issued meaning that sustained winds are greater than 20 mph, afternoon relative humidity is less than 25 percent, and fuel moistures are low.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court declared September as Preparedness Month in the Williamson County.  The Williamson County Office of Emergency Management encourages residents to get an emergency kit, make a plan, be informed and get involved in emergency preparedness. 

On September 29, 2012, thousands of volunteers at over 2,000 sites throughout the United States are expected to volunteer to help restore the beauty and vitality of our public lands as part of the 19th Annual National Public Lands Day (NPLD).  In Williamson County, the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department, along with Discover Green – Young Environmental Leaders and REI-Round Rock, will be removing weeds from planting beds, maintaining a playground area and removing litter at the Southwest Williamson County Regional Park

The Williamson County Commissioners Court adopted their budget for FY 2012-2013 today and set the total county tax rate at 48.9029 cents per $100 of valuation.  The Commissioners Court adopted the effective tax rate, which is calculated to levy the same amount of property taxes as the prior year. 

The Williamson County Commissioners Court will hold a budget hearing on Tuesday, August 28, at 10 a.m. to adopt the fiscal 2013 budget and set the tax rate.  The hearing will take place in the Commissioners Courtroom on the second floor of the historic courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, Georgetown.

Williamson County officials are calling on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service) to not list the Georgetown salamander, Jollyville Plateau salamander and Salado Springs salamander as either threatened or endangered until the County’s studies on the salamanders are completed.  The Service will hold two public meetings to gather public comments on the listing proposal.  The meeting in Williamson County will take place on Wednesday, September 5, at the Wingate by Wyndham Round Rock, 1209 N. IH 35 North, exit 253 at Hwy 79.  An informational meeting will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with a public hearing from 7 to 8:30 p.m. 

On Tuesday, August 21, 2012, the Williamson County Judge lifted the burn ban for Williamson County.  The Commissioners Court will review the conditions on August 28, 2012.

Williamson County is seeking qualified bow hunters for weekend, two-day hunts on county-owned park land.  The hunts will be conducted from September 29, 2012 through December 16, 2012, excluding Thanksgiving weekend.  Hunters may register at the Williamson County Parks and Recreation Office, 219 Perry Mayfield, Leander, TX 78641 (located at the Southwest Williamson County Regional Park).

The Williamson County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office is now issuing “The Texas Classic,” the new general-issue license plate from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV).

Williamson County’s proposed fiscal 2013 budget is a flat budget at $126,878,575 for the general fund, just $812 less than the current year general fund budget.  The Williamson County Commissioners Court will begin to amend the recommended budget during Budget Modification Meetings held Monday, August 20, at 8 a.m. and, if needed, again on Tuesday, August 21, at 1 p.m.  Both meetings will take place in the Commissioners Courtroom on the second floor of the historic courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, Georgetown.  The Budget Hearing to adopt the budget will be Tuesday, August 28, at 10 a.m.

The Williamson County Auditor’s Office now has more than 2,200 county contracts available online at www.wilco.org through the County Auditor’s Office home page.  The contract database allows contracts to be stored in a centralized location and is organized in a user friendly format.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, August 23,  from 9 to 11 a.m.  The safety seat check will take place at the Scott & White Healthcare Clinic located at 425 University Boulevard, Round Rock.  Children will need to be with the parent or other adult caregiver during the inspection.

Williamson County Commissioners Court today approved a burn ban for 30 days.  A person violates this order if he burns any combustible material outside of an enclosure which serves to contain all flames and/or sparks, or orders such burning by others.

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has announced that Williamson County, Texas, has received the GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its budget.  This is the second consecutive year that the Budget Office has received the award. 

During the week of July 15 through 21, 2012, Williamson County residents join people across the United States and Canada to recognize the work that probation, parole and community supervision professionals do for our public safety.
Today in America, there are over 5 million adults on community supervision and most of these individuals are monitored by probation and parole officers.  Williamson County currently has 50 certified probation officers monitoring over 2,700 offenders residing in Williamson County.

Williamson County Emergency Communications recognized three employees for their performance under exceptional circumstances during the Commissioners Court meeting today.  Lacy Alexander was given the Phoenix Award for giving assistance over the phone for the resuscitation of another person.  Rick Murphy and Jonathan Jones were given the New Life Award, also known as a “Stork Pin,” for giving assistance over the phone for delivering a baby.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, August 23, from 9 to 11 a.m. The safety seat check will take place at the Scott & White Healthcare Clinic located at 425 University Boulevard, Round Rock.

The Republican and Democratic parties will hold runoff elections on Tuesday, July 31.  Registered voters who voted in the Primary can vote in the same party runoff election. If a registered voter did not vote in the Primary, they may vote in either party’s runoff election.  Early voting begins Monday, July 23, and runs through Friday, July 27.  Sample ballots for the elections are available on the Elections website at www.wilco.org/elections.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate closing next week for staff training.  All other locations will be open during regular business hours.  The office closure schedule is as follows:

Tuesday, July 10 - Round Rock tax office, 1801 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
Wednesday, July 11 - Georgetown tax office, 904 S. Main St.
Thursday, July 12 - Cedar Park tax office, 350 Discovery Blvd., and Taylor tax office, 412 Vance St.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and Baby Earth will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Wednesday, July 11, from 9 to 11 a.m.

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) celebrates July with some sizzling hot adoption fees starting at no cost on certain animals to only $50 for all puppies adopted during the month of July.  Cats and kittens are just $25, unless other promotions are in effect at the time of adoption.

Fireworks can be legally sold and used in unincorporated areas of Williamson County.  However, due to extremely dry weather conditions which increase the potential for wildfires, the Williamson County Office of Emergency Management cautions residents to use care if lighting fireworks this Independence Day holiday. 

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is hosting a “Foster 2 Forever” adoption event on Saturday, July 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.  All adoptable animals that currently are being cared for in foster homes will be at the shelter for adopters to see these wonderful dogs and cats.

Williamson County offices will be closed on Wednesday, July 4, for the Independence Day holiday.  The Commissioners Court meeting will not be held on Tuesday, July 3.  County offices will resume normal business hours on Thursday, July 5, 2012.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved a new policy for accepting paint from businesses and contractors at the Williamson County Landfill Recycling Center, 600 Landfill Road, in Hutto.  Waste Management, which manages the recycling center, allows private residents to drop off up to 10 gallons of paint free of charge.  Now, they also will allow businesses and contractors to bring in up to 55 gallons of paint at any one time for a fee.  The fee for water-based paint is $7.50 per gallon and oil-based paint is $9.50 per gallon.

Williamson County District Attorney John Bradley was selected as the 2012 recipient of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice Promoting of Positive (POP) Mental Health initiative.  The award was created in 2009 to recognize an individual or a group who has made a significant and long term impact on positive mental health practices for offenders or employees who work in the criminal justice field. 

Williamson County’s Brown Santa Program is proud to announce the 1st Annual "Givin' & Golfin' Tournament!"  Save the date now for July 17.  The entry fee covers 18 holes of golf with cart, range balls, lunch, dinner, a gift bag, and two beverage tickets.  Proceeds will benefit families in need during the upcoming holiday season.  

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter will be partnering with No Kill Wilco, a community based animal advocacy organization, to host monthly Town Hall meetings. The first of these meetings is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 10, at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, located at 1855 S. E. Inner Loop, Georgetown, TX 78626.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, June 28, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  The safety seat check, sponsored by Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare, will take place in the parking garage of the St. David’s Georgetown Hospital located on 2000 Scenic Drive.

Construction of a bicycle/pedestrian bridge over Brushy Creek at 183A in Williamson County will require the temporary closure of the Brushy Creek Regional Trail beginning June 12 to 15, 2012.  The trail is being temporarily closed so that it can be re-aligned in preparation for its future connection to the pedestrian bridge. 

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate closing next week for staff training.  All other locations will be open during regular business hours.  The office closure schedule is as follows:

Tuesday, June 12 - Round Rock tax office, 1801 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
Wednesday, June 13 - Georgetown tax office, 904 S. Main St.
Thursday, June 14 - Cedar Park tax office, 350 Discovery Blvd., and Taylor tax office, 412 Vance St.

To most people, June 11 is just one day. But, June 11 is a day that could change everything for 10,411 companion animals, and a day that can change the world. The “Just One Day” event tasks animal shelters across the USA to take a pledge not to kill any savable animals on June 11, 2012.On June 11, a day the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is normally closed, the shelter will be open from 11 to 6 p.m. for adoptions only. Adoptions will be just $11 for any animal in the shelter.

Governor Rick Perry has appointed Mackenzie Kelly, Williamson County emergency management technician, to the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities.  The Governor also reappointed four members for terms to expire Feb. 1, 2014.  The committee works to ensure Texans with disabilities may live their lives with integrity, independence and productivity.

The jury trial in Justice of the Peace Judy Schier Hobbs, Precinct 4, court set for Monday, June 4, 2012, at 9:30 a.m. in Taylor has been cancelled.  Those who received a jury summons for Monday, June 4, 2012 , at 9:30 a.m. at the JP4 court in Taylor do not need to report.

Williamson County Juvenile Services will be recognized as a “No Place for Hate” campus for the coming 2011-2012 school year, making it the first juvenile correctional facility to receive this designation.  On April 26, 2012, they received notification from the Anti-Defamation League of Austin of the approval of the designation, and the Academy and Detention/TRIAD received their banners at the Georgetown Independent School District’s School Board Meeting on May 21, 2012.

In honor of Election Day, you can elect your new head of household at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter and adoption fees are waived for qualified adopters!  This offer is good on Election Day for the Primary Elections, May 29, only.

The Williamson County District Attorney’s Office recently reported that Williamson County has exceeded the State of Texas’ requirement to report the disposition of at least 90 percent of all criminal cases to the Texas Department of Public Safety.  The Department of Public Safety (DPS) maintains a data base of criminal histories known as CJIS (Criminal Justice Information System) for use by law enforcement for all arrested defendants in Texas. This makes it easier for law enforcement to obtain information on individuals while making traffic stops or arrests and provides valuable information related to the safety of officers on the streets. 

Williamson County offices will be closed on Monday, May 28, in observance of Memorial Day.  All county operations will resume regular hours on Tuesday, May 29, 2011.

The Williamson County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3, office, 301 S. E. Inner Loop in Georgetown, will be closed to the public for construction renovations on Friday, May 25.  Payments can be made using the drop box located outside the office next to the Purchasing Department door or online at www.wilco.org, then click on Justice Courts and choose Precinct 3.  All county offices will be closed Monday, May 28 for Memorial Day.

Early voting began Monday, May 14, for the Primary Elections with a preliminary turnout of 2,162 (including mail, limited and provisional).  Voters in this election will choose a ballot for either Republican or Democratic candidates for county, state and federal offices.  Sample ballots for the elections are available on the Elections website at www.wilco.org/elections.  Voters can vote at any polling location during early voting.

On May 7, 2012, the Williamson County Justice of the Peace, Pct. #3 Collections Department was awarded The Excellence in Service Award by the Governmental Collectors Association of Texas at the 13th Annual Conference held in San Marcos.  Lisa Kirk, collections coordinator, and Karen Daugherty, assistant, were honored to accept this prestigious award.

Due to the recent storms and saturated grounds, the 4th Annual Dino Day Celebration at Champion Park originally scheduled for May 12 has been cancelled.  We are unable to bring in equipment and other amenities that were planned for the day.  The park will remain open, however, for general public use!  We have not determined a new date for the event and regret any inconvenience.  Please check our website at www.wilco.org for upcoming events and other county related news. 

The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved a resolution to renew the curfew for minors in unincorporated areas of the county.  Under the curfew, minors less than 17 years of age are not allowed outside between 12:01 a.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Friday, and from 1:00 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Commissioner Valerie Covey, Precinct 3, will host a groundbreaking for Ronald Reagan Boulevard Phase 4 on Thursday, May 10, at 10 a.m.  The ceremony will be held at the northern end of the project in Jarrell at the bend in CR 237, less than half a mile west of IH-35. 

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and Taylor ISD Family Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, May 24, 2012, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the parking lot of the Old Taylor High School located at 3101 North Main, Taylor, TX.  To make an appointment for the May 24th event, please call Taylor ISD Family Services at 512-352-3910, ask for John, before noon on Tuesday, May 22nd.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Office now offers approximate wait times online for the Round Rock and Cedar Park offices.  Before heading to the office to renew your vehicle registration or pay property taxes at these offices, check the times to see how long you might have to wait. 

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will rotate closing next week for staff training.  All other locations will be open during regular business hours. 

Tuesday, May 8 - Round Rock tax office, 1801 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
Wednesday, May 9 - Georgetown tax office, 904 S. Main St.
Thursday, May 10 - Cedar Park tax office, 350 Discovery Blvd., and Taylor tax office, 412 Vance St.

It's "kitten season" at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter - the time of the year when cats give birth, flooding area shelters with homeless litters of kittens. Typically, the shelter admits 200 to 400 cats and kittens monthly through early fall, contributing to extremely overcrowded conditions.  By adopting from the shelter, residents provide a loving home for their newly selected pets, freeing up space for those who still await adoption or admittance to the shelter over the next several months.

The Texas Forest Service (TFS) and Texas A & M University System officials unveiled a new web portal designed to help Texans identify their risk for wildfire.  The Texas Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal  http://www.texaswildfirerisk.com/ allows users to identify wildfire threats for a particular area based on landscape characteristics, historical fire occurrence, weather conditions, terrain and potential fire behavior.  It also routes users to resources that can help them implement wildfire prevention practices.

May 9, 2012, is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day.  The public is invited to a short ceremony in celebration of National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day on Tuesday, May 8, 2012, at 9 a.m. on the south steps of the Williamson County historic courthouse, 710 S. Main Street, in Georgetown.  Green ribbons, signifying new growth and new beginnings, will be handed out for people to wear on May 9.

The Williamson County District Attorney’s Office has applied for and is being considered for grant funding for a new victim services position that would focus on victims of domestic violence.  The grant is awarded through the Texas Governor’s Office.  The grant is for $52,152 to cover salary, fringe, benefits, supplies, training and travel expenses.

The Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department will delay the planned improvement and closure of the Brushy Creek Regional Trail between Champion Park and Brushy Creek Lake Park to allow time for further project review.  The project is expected to commence mid-summer.

Enjoy a fun filled day of exploration at the 4th Annual Dinosaur Day at Champion Park!  The event will be held on Saturday, May 12, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and includes free hot dogs and chips, live music, an inflatable playhouse and other activities for the children.  All the activities will be free and open to the public.

Enjoy a fun filled day of exploration at the 4th Annual Dinosaur Day at Champion Park!  The event will be held on Saturday, May 12, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and includes free hot dogs and chips, live music, an inflatable playhouse and other activities for the children.  All the activities will be free and open to the public.

Not transferring a vehicle in 30 days can cost Williamson County residents big money.  A new state law requires those who purchase vehicles in a private sale, whether it’s in or out of state, to obtain a new title within 30 calendar days or face financial penalties.

Not transferring a vehicle in 30 days can cost Williamson County residents big money.  A new state law requires those who purchase vehicles in a private sale, whether it’s in or out of state, to obtain a new title within 30 calendar days or face financial penalties.

Williamson County, the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are preparing to start construction of a bicycle/pedestrian bridge over Brushy Creek at 183A with the selection of a contractor for the project.  Montoya Anderson Construction, Inc. has been selected to build the bridge that will connect the Williamson County Brushy Creek Regional Trail to the 183A Shared-Use Path underneath the 183A South Brushy Creek Bridge. 

Amigo is the name chosen for Williamson County’s new donkey who resides with half-brother Poco at Berry Springs Park and Preserve.  The name for the one-year-old donkey was first submitted by Adrian Grimmett of Georgetown.  Williamson County Parks and Recreation received approximately 200 name suggestions for the donkey, and park staff felt Amigo, which means friend, best fit his friendly personality.  

Beginning Tuesday, April 24, 2012, the section of Brushy Creek Regional Trail from Champion Park to Brushy Creek Lake Park, approximately a half a mile long, will be closed for an improvement project.  Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the trail is expected to be open for public use by May 31, 2012.

Williamson County has closed its disc golf course for site maintenance until approximately mid-October.  The course, located at the Williamson County Southwest Regional Park, 3005 C.R. 175 in Leander, is in a natural area of the park that is heavily treed.  Due to the drought, many trees have died, which poses a safety hazard for disc golfers due to falling limbs.

The "Vern's No Frills 5k" race will celebrate its third anniversary with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the starting line of the newly certified 5K trail (3.1 miles) this coming Saturday, April 21, 2012, at Berry Springs Park and Preserve, 1801 C.R. 152, Georgetown. The newly certified 5K course will have new half-mile markers along the trail.  Williamson County Parks and Recreation staff and representatives from the sponsors will be on hand to dedicate the newly marked trail a few minutes prior to the race at 8 a.m.

The week of April 22  to 28, 2012, is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.  The Williamson County Crime Victims’ Rights Advocates will hold a ceremony at the Georgetown Community Center at 10:00am April 25, 2012.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and the Leander Fire Department will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, April 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Leander Central Fire Station located at 201 Brushy Street North.  To make an appointment for the April 26 event, please call 512-259-9010 before noon on Monday, April 23.

Make plans to explore River Ranch County Park, Williamson County’s newest parkland, on Saturday, April 28.  This is a unique opportunity to experience the undeveloped property comprised of more than 1,000 acres of meadowlands, wetlands and hills located between Leander and Liberty Hill off CR 282.  The park is currently not open to the public on a daily basis.  Take A Hike Day visitors may hike along one (1) mile, two (2) mile, and three (3) mile trails with park staff and native plant guides.

Beginning Thursday, April 5, Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) in Georgetown, Texas,  will be a participant in the Qualifying Heat of the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge. WCRAS is competing for a chance at more than $500,000 in grant funding, including a grand prize of $100,000. 

Gov. Rick Perry has appointed seven members to the Specialty Courts Advisory Council. The council will evaluate applications for grant funding for specialty courts in Texas, and make funding recommendations to the criminal justice division.  Sabrina Bentley with the Williamson County Community Supervision and Corrections Department was one of those appointed by Governor Perry.  Ms. Bentley is a senior DWI and drug court officer for the department and lives in Georgetown.

Williamson County is hosting its second Learn to Fish event in the Southwest Regional Park, 3005 CR 175, on Saturday, April 14, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.  Children of all ages will be able to spend time learning various fishing tips and techniques from local experts.

Waste Management and Williamson County are partnering with the City of Cedar Park to host the “Keen on Clean” Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  The event will be held at Leander Independent School District's Gupton Stadiu, 200 Gupton Way, on the corner of Cupton Way and E. Park Street.  The event is free to the public.  Please read the list of accepted and not accepted items before attending.

On Tuesday, March 27, 2012, the Williamson County Commissioners Court recognized local efforts to educate and increase public awareness on drowning prevention, proclaiming Sunday, April 1, as “April Pools Day.” 
Drownings are the leading cause of injury death in children ages 1 to 4.  In 2011, there were seven near drownings in Williamson County – all involving children -- but there were no fatalities.  In the two previous years, there were six child fatalities.  Parents and families can build on their current safety systems at pools and spas by adopting additional water safety steps.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s  Office will partner with Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to pilot a program which offers remote locations for vehicle registration renewals in addition to the Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices to provide more convenient options to customers.  Only vehicle registration renewal transactions will be available at the remote locations.  This pilot will be held at Precinct #4 Commissioner Ron Morrison’s Office located at 350 Exchange Blvd., Suite 100, Hutto on April 27th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.  It will be open to all Williamson County residents.  During this time, vehicle registration renewals for the months of April and May will be processed.

Grab a two or four-legged running buddy on Sunday, April 22, and head to the 3rd Annual Woof Walk & Wrun 5k at the Williamson County Southwest Regional Park.  All event proceeds will benefit Jane’s Fund providing medical support for animals brought to the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter with treatable injuries.

All Williamson County offices will be closed on Thursday, April 5, and Friday, April 6, for the Easter holiday.  County operations will resume regular hours on Monday, April 9, 2012.  In addition, the Commissioners Court will not have their regular meeting on Tuesday, April 10, but will have a budget workshop at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 10, at the J.B. and Hallie Jester Williamson County Annex, 1801 E. Old Settlers Boulevard., Round Rock.

Williamson County Parks and Recreation welcomes a new resident to the old farm house at Berry Springs Park and Preserve – a small, brown donkey who currently is nameless.  The nameless little donkey is just under a year old and is getting along well with current park resident donkey, Poco.  The donkey was donated.  Additional donations are accepted at the park for the continued care and feeding of the animals.  Williamson County Parks and Recreation is accepting suggestions through April 6, 2012, for a name for the new donkey that matches his friendly personality and gentle spirit.

Effective Monday, March 26, 2012, the Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace Steve Benton’s office will have new office hours.  The office will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.  Telephone hours will remain: 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.  For your convenience, online credit card payments for criminal cases only are available for the Williamson County Justice of the Peace Court, Precinct 3.

Randy Rodgers has been selected as director of the Fleet Maintenance Division of Williamson County’s Department of Infrastructure.  Mr. Rodgers brings more than 25 years of fleet maintenance and management experience to the position.

Williamson County Emergency Communications has been notified that the following roads are closed due to high water as of 4 a.m. on Tuesday, March 20.

CR 123 @ Brushy Creek; CR 279 in Liberty Hill; Southwest Drive in Leander; CR 177 at low water crossing; CR 223 at 700 blk; CR 372; CR 208 @ 1300  blk; CR 226 @ Florence city limits; CR 100 @ McShephard; CR 152 @ Lonnie Thomas Drive; CR 177; CR 258 @ FM 3405; CR 200 @ CR 202 ; SH 138 @ Berry Creek; CR 220 @ CR 223; San Gabriel Ranch @ Ramuda; CR 259 @ 360 blk

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s Offices will be closed March 13 to 15, 2012, on a rotating schedule for training.  While one office is closed, other office locations will be open regular business hours.

Join us for Archeology Day on Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the beautiful Berry Springs Park and Preserve, 1801 C.R. 152, in Georgetown.  The Williamson Museum, Williamson County Parks and Recreation Department and the Gault Project will offer free hands-on activities and the opportunity to visit with archeologists and Native Americans to learn about 13,000 years of Williamson County history.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and St. David’s Georgetown Hospital will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Friday, March 30, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the parking garage of the St. David’s Georgetown Hospital located at 2000 Scenic Drive.   The program is sponsored by Texans In Motion at Scott & White Healthcare.  To make an appointment for the March 30 event, please call Williamson County EMS at 512-943-1264 before noon on Friday, March 23.

Williamson County received a AAA bond rating from both Fitch Ratings and Standard & Poor’s for $153.165 million in limited tax refunding bonds, series 2012.  The bonds are scheduled for a negotiated sale the week of March 5, 2012.  Proceeds from the refunding bonds will be used to refund portions of the county's outstanding debt for interest savings. 

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) is hosting an anniversary party on Wednesday, March 14, from 2 to 6 p.m. to celebrate five outstanding years at their S.E. Inner Loop location in Georgetown.  Highlighting the anniversary celebration will be an open house with cake and punch for all, and NO COST adoptions for lucky pet applicants.

Online credit card payments are now available for the Williamson County Justice of the Peace Court Precinct 2.  Only full payments are accepted, and once accepted, the case is closed and reported as a conviction.  Payments will be posted to the case within 24 business hours. Access to the site is: www.wilco.org/payJP2 or through www.wilco.org and click on Justice Court Pct 2 and click Pay Online.

It looked like another happy ending.  Peanut, a black, tan and white beagle/rat terrier/doxie mix breed puppy, was adopted and going to his new home.  Unfortunately, staff at the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter were heart-broken to have him return to the shelter just a year and a half later… malnourished and heartworm positive.  For more information on how to recognize and report animal cruelty, go http://www.aspca.org/. 

The Williamson County Clerk’s Office is increasing plat filing fees.  Effective March 1, the new plat filing fees are $86 for the first page and each additional page is $75.  Copies of plats will be $5 per page.

Williamson County Commissioners Court declared the week of February 19 to 25, 2012, as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Williamson County.  The Court urges families and businesses to prepare emergency plans and learn more about severe weather preparedness available through the Office of Emergency Management and www.ready.gov.

The 2012 Great Texas Warrant Roundup will take place on Saturday, February 25, 2012.  The warrant roundup is a statewide initiative with several police agencies participating, including three of the Williamson County constables’ offices.  Deputies will be visiting people who have warrants at their residence or at their place of employment.  Anyone with outstanding warrants is encouraged to take care of those warrants before February 25, 2012.

Williamson County Emergency Medical Services and Taylor ISD Family Services will be conducting a car seat safety event by appointment for area residents on Thursday, February 23, from 1:00p.m to 3:30p.m in the parking lot of the Jesus Christ Church of Latter-day Saints located at 2800 North Drive, Taylor, TX.

The Williamson County Commissioners Court today approved an agreement for engineering services with Jose I. Guerra, Inc. to design repairs to address design and construction deficiencies with the County’s Justice Center parking garage, located at 4th and Rock streets in Georgetown.

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is FULL of loving dogs and cats that would make any heart melt for Valentine’s Day…but why wait until then?  Due to the large number of beautiful pets waiting to find their forever homes, the Animal Shelter is starting their Valentine’s Day special today!  Now through Valentine’s Day, the regular adoption fee of $75 will be reduced to $14, a price anyone would love!

Interest rates have fallen, and the Williamson County Commissioners Court is once again taking advantage of market conditions to refinance road bond debt at a lower interest rate.  The Court authorized County Auditor David Flores to refinance $132 million in road bonds over the next twelve months.  The County is anticipating a net interest rate of 2.45% for a savings of $9.4 million over the time of the debt.

Music fans and animal lovers will unite for two musical showcases to benefit the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter.  Critical Sun Recordings is heading from Seattle to South by Southwest 2012 and will be performing in Austin and Georgetown to raise funds for the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter.  A $10 admission donation for these events will benefit the shelter.

Mike Fox, director of Williamson County Fleet Division, retired on January 31 after 18 years of service to Williamson County.  Randy Rodgers, who has served as the assistant Fleet Manager for the past three years, has been appointed to serve as the interim division director of the Fleet Division in the Department of Infrastructure.  Rick Bolton, a senior service technician in the Fleet Division, received certification to become an Electronic Diesel Engine Diagnosis Specialist by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

On January 31, the Williamson County Commissioners Court unanimously agreed to send a letter to US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) opposing efforts to declare an emergency to list the Jollyville Plateau salamander as an endangered species as requested by the Save Our Springs Alliance and the Center for Biological Diversity.  These groups requested that the USFWS consider an emergency listing of the species as endangered due to the ongoing construction of the City of Austin’s Water Treatment Plant 4.    Several known locations of the Jollyville Plateau salamander are located in the southwestern portion of Williamson County.  An emergency listing would affect every location where the species is found.

A Fire Weather Watch is in effect Sunday for Williamson County according to the National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio.  Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.  Although Williamson County currently is not under a burn ban, outdoor burning is not recommended on Sunday due to these weather conditions.  For updated weather warnings, visit http://www.nws.noaa.gov/.

Registration for spring softball leagues in Williamson County is currently open through January 30.  League play begins on Monday, February 20, at the Southwest Williamson County Regional Park in Leander, and at the Cedar Park Athletic Complex fields.

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter is planning a special Valentine’s “Pawty” and promotion for pet adoptions during the week of February 12 to 18.

The Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector’s office reminds property owners that Tuesday January 31st, 2012, is the state mandated deadline to pay 2011 property taxes.