Round Rock ISD announced Oct. 9 that it hired Mike Harmon as its next chief of police. Harmon replaces former Chief Ryan Urrutia, who departed the school district earlier this year.

The gist: Harmon joins Round Rock ISD after spending the last 28 years with the Cedar Park Police Department. He most recently served as the chief of police for Cedar Park.

In their own words: “Serving Cedar Park for the past 28 years has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” Harmon said in a release from the district. “I’m excited for the opportunity to continue serving in a new capacity, protecting students, supporting educators and families, and carrying forward the community policing principles that have guided me throughout my career.”

Round Rock pet grooming service Purr-fect Pets will move from its current location at 3701 Gattis School Road, Ste. 500, Round Rock, to a new space in downtown Round Rock Jan. 1.

About the business: Locally owned by Cathy and Michael Morin, Purr-fect Pets is an American Kennel Club-certified groomer. Morin said her business offers services for both dogs and cats.

The Round Rock location first opened in 2017. The couple also owns the Georgetown Purr-fect Pets.

• 109 S. Sheppard St., Round Rock

The Williamson County Facilities Department is working on several projects to upgrade parks and infrastructure across the county.

Facilities Manager Dale Butler gave an update on the projects at an Oct. 6 Commissioners Court meeting.

1. Parks

Work has begun on Southwest Williamson County Regional Park in Leander, Butler said. Lonestar Soccer Club is sponsoring the improvements to upgrade four fields to artificial turf, according to previous Community Impact reporting.

Construction will conclude in spring 2027, Butler said.

2. Facilities

Construction on the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter includes new multistory adoption and clinic facilities. It is expected to be completed in fall 2027, Butler said.

3. Historic preservation and upgrades

For the historic courthouse in downtown Georgetown, the county is working to restore the terrazzo flooring, upgrade lighting, recondition HVAC and remodel the building.

Democrat Joe Paz Herrera is challenging Republican incumbent Pete Flores for the Texas Senate District 24 seat.

The big picture: District 24 stretches across Central Texas and includes portions Community Impact's coverage areas in the Lake Travis area, northwest Austin, Cedar Park, Leander and Round Rock.

What else? Candidates were asked to keep responses within 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines or for style and clarity.

Early voting runs from Oct. 19-30, and Election Day is Nov. 3.