“Did you know Bear Creek wasn’t always a village?” Let’s dive into the story of Bear Creek, Texas. This village in Hays County has a unique history. It shows how local residents can shape their community’s destiny.
Bear Creek’s story starts in the late 1970s. Robert Ingrum and E. D. Bohls developed the Bear Creek Oaks Subdivision. This area was once part of the Koening Family Ranch. The developers planned large tracts of land, some 5 and 6 acres. Today, some properties remain substantial. One is 22 acres and another is 18 acres.
Fast forward to November 4, 1997. The residents of Bear Creek Oaks Subdivision made a significant decision. They voted to incorporate as a village. The vote was overwhelmingly in favor, two to one. Why did they choose this path?
Firstly, they wanted local control. Residents felt that they, not Hays County or Austin, should decide the area’s future. They aimed to preserve the rural character of Bear Creek. They wanted a say in its development.
Secondly, they wished to avoid annexation by the City of Austin. Annexation would bring regulations and higher taxes. In 1997, Austin’s city limits were far away. But by December 1997, Austin annexed land closer to Bear Creek. The city limits were only 80 feet away. The difference in taxes was substantial. Austin’s 2020 taxes were $0.5535 per $100 valuation. For a $200,000 valuation, this meant $1,100 per year. Bear Creek’s tax rate was much lower at $0.08940 per $100 valuation. This equaled roughly $185 per year. The Village cannot impose a tax rate greater than .25/$100 valuation per the Local Government Code.
Thirdly, they aimed to secure funds for water lines. This would give property owners another water source besides wells. Fire hydrants could then be installed. This would potentially lower homeowners insurance costs.
Bear Creek is governed by three elected officials. These are a mayor and two commissioners.
Bear Creek itself is a wet weather creek. It wraps around the edge of the Bear Creek Park neighborhood. Many homes are located on the creek’s edge. Much of the area behind these homes lies in the flood plain. The area is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot foxes, armadillos, coyotes, deer, raccoons, bobcats, birds, and snakes. After heavy rains, fossils are often found.
Bear Creek Park is a neighborhood established in 1971. Mr. O.H. Poole subdivided his farm. He wanted to create a rural residential community. He set deed restrictions to maintain this character. Residents could keep two horses or chickens in enclosed areas. Three horses were allowed on lots over an acre. The homeowners association was voluntary. Dues could not exceed $5 per year.
The residents of Bear Creek Park watch out for each other. They have successfully defended their neighborhood against outside threats. When a local cemetery was at risk, the homeowners association stepped in. They purchased Townsley Cemetery and restored its stone walls.
Today, Bear Creek stands as a testament to community spirit. It shows what residents can achieve when they work together. They maintain their unique identity. They protect their rural way of life.