Two locations of the beverage franchise HTeaO will have doors open by the end of December.

What you need to know: The Brushy Creek location of HTeaO opened Nov. 28, with a second location on East Palm Valley Boulevard set to hold a grand opening Dec. 13.

About the business: The Texas-based beverage company originated in Dallas and now has franchise locations statewide. HTeaO's menu offers a variety of tea and coffee options, as well as a special menu of drinks named "cotton candy," "pink flamingo" and more.

• 211 Deer Ridge Dr., Round Rock; 2331 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock

Round Rock Mayor Craig Morgan highlighted major infrastructure upgrades, downtown redevelopment and long-term water planning during the annual State of the City address, telling residents the city is “well positioned” to manage continued growth. 

The overview: Speaking before business leaders and local officials at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock, Morgan pointed to progress on voter-approved transportation projects and emphasized the city’s commitment to maintaining essential services as construction continues across Round Rock.

“We’re not planning for today—we’re planning for tomorrow,” Morgan said.

Diving deeper: The mayor highlighted nearly $196.4 million in transportation connections and capacity upgrades now underway across the city. Work that includes major corridor expansions, intersection redesigns and long-planned roadway links expected to wrap up in 2026. These include expansions to Gattis School Road, Wyoming Springs Drive and Red Bud Lane.

Morgan also pointed to the growing use of the city’s on-demand transit service, Round Rock Rides, which recorded 22,500 trips in 2025.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick unveiled a plan Dec. 9 to further raise property tax exemptions for Texas homeowners and lower the age at which Texans qualify for additional tax relief during the 2027 state legislative session.

The details: Deemed “Operation Double Nickel,” Patrick’s three-part plan asks state lawmakers to:

• Raise the property tax exemption on a Texas homeowner’s main residence, known as a homestead exemption, by $40,000
• Allow homeowners who are at least 55 years old to qualify for a larger exemption reserved for seniors and people with disabilities
• Pass legislation to drive down property taxes charged by local governments