Cedar Park forms advisory task force for 2027 bond

CEDAR PARK, Texas — The City of Cedar Park is moving toward a possible May 2027 bond election after creating a 15-member advisory group to review more than $300 million in proposed capital projects.

City Council voted Aug. 13 to establish the Bond Advisory Task Force, which will work with city staff this fall to recommend projects and a potential bond amount.

The preliminary project list draws from existing city plans, including transportation and parks priorities, Engineering and Capital Projects Director Randy Lueders told City Council.

The list exceeds $300 million, while city officials estimate Cedar Park could have debt capacity of roughly $180 million to $240 million.

Because projects would be completed over six to eight years and costs could rise, staff estimates the eventual project package may need to total about $136 million to $182 million.

Mayor Jim Penniman-Morin said the task force gives residents a direct role in narrowing those priorities.

“A thing that’s great about this task force is that it’s not just our opinions,” Penniman-Morin told City Council. He said the 15 residents will study the projects and make “some tough recommendations.”

The mayor will appoint the task force chair and two members. Each Council Member will appoint two additional members, with the full slate subject to City Council approval.

Penniman-Morin said he intends to appoint former Council Member Eric Boyce as chair.

The group is expected to meet about seven times this fall before presenting recommendations to City Council late this year.

If City Council proceeds, members could vote in February to call a May 2027 bond election. Voters would then decide whether the City of Cedar Park may issue general obligation bonds for the selected projects.

Cedar Park voters last approved a major bond package in 2022, authorizing $158.8 million for projects including roads, shared-use paths, parks and a public safety training facility.

Council Member Kevin Harris said previous bond programs show how the financing method can support long-term city projects.

“I think it’s important to highlight the past — how very successful the staff has been with prior bonds,” Harris told City Council.

Residents interested in serving on the task force have until Aug. 21 to apply through the city secretary. Appointees must live within Cedar Park city limits. City Council is scheduled to consider appointments Aug. 27.