Dripping Springs ISD and the City of Dripping Springs have approved a landmark interlocal agreement (ILA) establishing a collaborative framework for the development of school sites located within the Dripping Springs city limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ).
The five-year agreement is designed to streamline the land development process for district facilities while strengthening coordination between the two entities. The agreement establishes clear development processes and timelines intended to improve efficiency and collaboration throughout project planning and construction.
As part of the agreement, the City will waive most permitting fees for district projects, resulting in an estimated savings of approximately $1.5 million for DSISD taxpayers over the next five years. The agreement also establishes agreed-upon standards for landscaping, signage, and lighting at district facilities aimed at reducing the need for variances.
“This interlocal agreement is a historic win,” said Dr. Holly Morris-Kuentz, Superintendent of Dripping Springs ISD. “We appreciate the City’s partnership in streamlining processes, timelines, and fees that will create clarity for the District and deliver meaningful savings to the families we serve,” she added.
In a separate but related interlocal agreement, DSISD agreed to grant the City of Dripping Springs an easement at no cost for a future access to Rathgeber Natural Resource Park. The future roadway, which will be located adjacent to Wildwood Springs Elementary, represents an important step toward supporting the future public access and use of the park.
“This agreement represents a strong spirit of collaboration between the City and DSISD,” said Mayor Bill Foulds. “We value the District’s partnership and willingness to work through complex issues together, including the roadway easement that will help support future access to Rathgeber Park for our residents and visitors.”