Little bits of big news
West Nile found in Hutto
HUTTO — A mosquito carrying deadly West Nile Virus was found at Hutto Lake Park, Williamson County and Cities Health District reported last week. This is the first sample this year to test positive in Hutto. West Nile-carrying mosquitos have also been trapped in Taylor, Georgetown, Liberty Hill and Leander so far this year.
“Hutto’s Emergency Management Department is currently working with the Williamson County and Cities Health District to secure the earliest available appointment for spray treatment in the affected area,” according to a city press release.
The first reported West Nile Virus-infected mosquito in the county was collected in a trap June 11. As of July 25, there have been 18 positive samples collected. In 2023, there were 35 infected samples trapped and one human case of West Nile Virus in Williamson County.
“With the recent rain events, we are seeing large increases in mosquitoes throughout Williamson County,” said Jason Fritz, MPH, Integrated Vector Management Program Lead in a June press release. “I encourage everyone to remove any standing water and use insect repellent if spending time outdoors.”
As little as a teaspoon of standing water is enough for a mosquito to breed in. Flower pots and clogged gutters are common sources of standing water in residential areas.
According to the release, symptoms of infection may include fever, headache, body aches, a skin rash on the trunk of the body and swollen lymph nodes. Residents 50 and older and/or with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk for severe symptoms, which may include stiffness, disorientation, coma, tremors, vision loss, paralysis and, in rare cases, death.
Capital improvement project update
With 38 projects currently active on its capital improvements plan, it can be hard for residents and council members to keep up with progress. Matt Rector, city engineer, gives a monthly presentation at City Council highlighting changes in status on these projects. At the July 18 meeting, Rector reported movement on five projects.
Farm to Market 1660 at Limmer Loop:
Waiting on Oncor to relocate an electric line, which has now been done, caused a delay. Rector is now expecting this project to be completed in first quarter of 2025. Meanwhile residents should expect occasional lane closures.
FM 1660 South at US 79:
Texas Department of Transportation has agreed to pay for a signal light at Front street. The design for that construction is 60% complete. An updated advance funding agreement with Texas Department or Transportation is being drafted between the city and the state agency. Expected completion date is yet to be determined.
Northwest Transmission water main:
A construction/excavation contract has been awarded to the lowest bidder, Nelson Lewis, Inc., in the amount of $2,687,050. Construction is expected to begin in third quarter of this year and end in third quarter of next year.
Glenwood Lift Station projects:
The lift station and interceptor are in construction, the central lift station bid is awaiting Texas Water Development Board approval and the south Lift Station is in design. Completion is still expected to be in second quarter of 2026.
South Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion:
Council awarded Raba Kistner a contract for $235,728.90 for construction materials, observation and testing services. Completion is expected in third quarter 2026.
HippoNation News
Desirae Hendricks Patterson has been announced as the principal of Howard Norman Elementary School, marking a return to the school where she started her career at Hutto Independent School District.
“Words cannot express how thrilled I am to be returning to Howard Norman. I’m excited about the opportunity to inspire excellence with my family in the Howard Norman community,” said Patterson. “I am looking forward to using the Leader in Me pillars to make waves in leadership, culture, and academics.”
Patterson came to Hutto ISD in 2020 as assistant principal of Howard Norman Elementary School. Her most recent position was as principal of the River Horse Academy and Virtual Academy. Holly Wells has been named as Patterson’s successor in those roles.
Wells is transferring from her position as association principal of Hutto High School. She has been at the district for 15 years.
“I am deeply honored and excited to accept the opportunity to lead one of our most unique campuses in Hippo Nation,” said Wells. “I appreciate the trust placed in me and recognize the responsibility that comes with this new role in making sure all students, despite their circumstances, are able to complete their educational journey in Hutto ISD.”
The first day of school is Aug. 14.
