Williamson County will work with local water providers to explore long-term water supply solutions, including an engineering study that will evaluate regional needs for water.

County commissioners approved $500,000 for the study at their Nov. 25 meeting.

The setup: Although the county is not a water provider, County Judge Steve Snell said officials hope to guide cities and utilities in coordinating water procurement, infrastructure planning and conservation efforts through the new study and coalition.

The newly formed Williamson County Water Group includes representatives from the county and major water providers like the cities of Round Rock, Leander, Cedar Park, Georgetown and the Brazos River Authority.

Potential solutions could involve groundwater and surface water development, water reuse, upgrades to aging infrastructure, and a broad conservation plan, Snell said.

What's next: The water study is anticipated to be conducted in April.

Two new residence halls at Southwestern University will be completed in time to house students in spring 2026, according to a university news release.

The details: Jessie Daniel Ames Hall is the new first-year residence hall, located in the eastern part of campus near the new Dorothy Perry White Welcome Center.

The new Ella Sedwick Hall second-year residence hall is next to the McCombs Campus Center.

Both are slated to wrap up construction in December.

The history: Jessie Daniel Ames Hall is named after the 1902 SU graduate, who is known for women’s suffrage and anti-lynching activism, the news release states.

Ella Sedwick Hall honors the longtime SU food service worker who has been a part of the university for more than 25 years, and is known on campus as "Ms. Ella."

• 1001 E. University Ave., Georgetown

Cynthia Long has served as a Williamson County commissioner for almost 20 years. Before her time on Commissioners Court, Long was elected to Cedar Park City Council twice.

Long will not seek re-election next year as her fifth term as Precinct 2 Commissioner comes to an end in November 2026. She spoke with Community Impact about her decision, her accomplishments as a commissioner and her hopes for the future of Williamson County.

What factored into your decision to not seek re-election?
I really feel good about a lot of the things that we've been able to accomplish, and certainly there's always more things to do, but [we’re] at a good spot that a lot of things that I've worked on over the years we've made some really good progress on. So, it feels like the right time.

What is the role of a commissioner, in your opinion?
Serving with compassion, but also being a fiscally responsible person because we have to make sure you can continue to afford to live here.

Those looking for an Austin restaurant to dine at this Thanksgiving have several options. Some restaurants require reservations and others accept walk-ins.

Corinne
Community members can stop by the restaurant for lunch or dinner and taste traditional Thanksgiving meals, including roasted turkey. Entrees can be paired with seasonal sides and housemade desserts.

• Price: $65 per person
• 304 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin

• Price: $49 per person (Thanksgiving menu with caramelized prime rib)
• 11801 Domain Blvd., Ste. 100, Austin

• Price: $40 per person
• South Congress Hotel, 1603 S. Congress Ave., Austin