The New Braunfels Housing Authority, or NBHA, is working to bring more affordable housing options to the city with three new projects.

What we know: During an April 6 special New Braunfels City Council meeting, NBHA Executive Director Henry Alvarez said Villa Serena—a low-income housing development at 109 Rosa Parks Drive—is reaching “economic obsolescence.” As a result, the authority is looking at using the Rental Assistance Demonstration, or RAD, Program to help reposition 35 units on the 16-acre property and add about 360 units next to the New Braunfels Food Bank. 

A second project, named Lyndon Ranch Apartments, is also in the works. The Lyndon Ranch Apartments would be located on a 13-acre parcel at 1801 Loop 337. The 303-unit, 3-story housing project developed by Paravel Capital would offer a mix of market rate and affordable one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom units 80% below the average median income. 

The third development project NBHA officials are working on is Park at Dogwood, which would be located along Old McQueeney Road. 

A new mechanic shop is open in town.

The details: Mavericks Automotive opened on April 20 at 619 S. Seguin Ave., according to an Instagram post from the shop.

The auto shop offers a wide range of services including diagnostics, oil changes, engine repairs and tire repairs, according to its website. 

• 619 S. Seguin Ave., New Braunfels

From events to live music and a proposed data center, check out these top stories from the past week of Community Impact reporting.

1. Q&A: Meet the candidates running for New Braunfels mayor

2. Guadalupe County sees 15.76% population increase from 2020-2025

3. Guadalupe County commissioners vote down $500M tax cut for proposed data center in New Braunfels

4. Costco to open New Braunfels location this spring

5. Live music on tap for the New Braunfels area this May, June

6. Check out 9 New Braunfels events happening in May, early June

The overview: Texans are expected to save millions in sales taxes on emergency supplies—everything from tarps to generators—during an annual tax holiday April 25-27.

How it works: The sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. April 24 and lasts until midnight April 27.

Texans are expected to save about $2.4 million in state and local taxes, according to the comptroller’s office. Last year, Texans saved about $2.3 million, agency spokesperson Kevin Lyons said.

According to the comptroller’s office, items qualify for the tax exemption if they are priced at:

• Less than $75 for items including household batteries, fuel containers, flashlights, smoke detectors, tarps and first aid kits
• Less than $300 for hurricane shutters and emergency ladders
• Less than $3,000 for portable generators