Lakeway Balances Growth & Community Values on The Building Texas Show

The Building Texas Show, hosted by Justin McKenzie, has released a compelling episode focusing on Lakeway, Texas, a Hill Country city experiencing significant transformation. In this in-depth conversation, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Mayor Tom Kilgore to explore how the city is navigating the challenges of nearly doubling its population over the past decade. The discussion centers on balancing private property rights, infrastructure investment, economic development, and quality of life while preserving the community's cherished small-town character. Mayor Kilgore emphasizes that growth requires discipline, planning, and cooperation, stating, "You can’t turn up the tap and pull up the drawbridge in Texas."

A central highlight of the episode is Lakeway's profound commitment to service and volunteerism, exemplified by its role as the proud host city for the Special Olympics of Texas Winter Games and Leadership Conference. The city has hosted this inspiring event for five consecutive years in partnership with neighboring communities like Bee Cave. Each year, the Special Olympics brings over 1,200 athletes, along with thousands of family members, coaches, and supporters, to the area—significantly boosting local hotels, restaurants, and businesses. Mayor Kilgore notes, "We get far more out of hosting the Special Olympics than the event itself," highlighting the community spirit and civic pride it fosters. The episode underscores how Lakeway's deep volunteer culture, which supplies hundreds of volunteers for the Games, reflects the broader spirit of service that defines the city.

Beyond community events, the conversation delves into Lakeway's proactive and strategic planning for the future. Mayor Kilgore discusses the city's approaches to critical issues like wildfire mitigation, emergency response coordination, and long-term comprehensive planning—work that often happens years before residents see a council vote. The episode also explores the realities of volunteer city leadership in Texas, the importance of regional collaboration with surrounding cities, and why civic engagement is vital as Lakeway prepares for its next chapter. Looking ahead to 2026 and the nation's 250th anniversary, the show underscores how enduring community traditions—from the iconic Fourth of July parade to widespread volunteerism—continue to anchor Lakeway even as it evolves. The episode is available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms through the show's website, www.buildingtexasshow.com.