Influenza activity remains high across the state of Texas. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) urges everyone six months old and older to get vaccinated against the flu. It is particularly important for pregnant women, young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions, because people in those groups are at a greater risk of severe complications if they do get the flu. The flu vaccine is available now. Find the closest location here. Other important steps include wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer; cover your coughs and sneezes; stay home if you’re sick; and have a plan to care for sick family members at home.

The official groundbreaking of the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) expansion project took place under sunny skies Wednesday, January 24. The event not only celebrated the start of construction on a new 16,970 square-foot, two-story addition and renovations to the current facility, but also the 10-year partnership between Williamson County and the cities of Round Rock, Cedar Park, Hutto, and Leander to operate the regional shelter.

Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector Larry Gaddes reminds property owners that 2017 property taxes must be paid in full by January 31st to avoid accruing penalties and interest.  For a full list of payment choices go to their web page and click on PAYMENT OPTIONS. For answers to frequently asked questions about property taxes, visit the County Tax Assessor/Collector’s website, email proptax@wilco.org or call 512-943-1603. Tax Assessor/Collector offices are open 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday and 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.    

A hard freeze is expected tonight, with lows Thursday morning in the upper teens to mid 20s across the Hill Country and Central Texas. Williamson County’s Office of Emergency Management urges residents to take actions to protect the 4 P’s: people, pets, pipes, and plants. Please listen to your NOAA weather radio, the weather reports on your favorite local radio and television stations, or visit the NWS website at www.srh.noaa.gov/ewx for the latest weather information and forecasts.

Property Tax statements will be mailed the week of October 16, 2017, according to Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector Larry Gaddes. The County Tax Assessor/Collector's Office sends out tax bills on behalf of over 100 taxing entities in Williamson County.  If your taxes are escrowed, the statement will be mailed to your lender. Taxes may be paid by mail, online at www.wilco.org/propertytax/ or in person at any of the four tax office locations in Williamson County. Click this article to watch a video on what is included in your county tax bill.