The Building Texas Show recently featured Lakeway Mayor Tom Kilgore in an episode examining how the Hill Country city manages rapid growth while maintaining community values and civic pride. Host Justin McKenzie engaged the mayor in a detailed conversation about leadership, long-term planning, and emergency preparedness, focusing on the behind-the-scenes work required to sustain a growing Texas municipality.
Lakeway has experienced significant demographic changes, with its population nearly doubling over the past decade. Mayor Kilgore emphasized the delicate balance city leadership must maintain between private property rights, infrastructure investment, economic development, and quality of life. "You can’t turn up the tap and pull up the drawbridge in Texas," Kilgore stated. "Growth brings opportunity, but it also requires discipline, planning, and cooperation." This approach aims to preserve Lakeway's small-town character despite expansion pressures.
A central theme of the discussion was Lakeway's strong tradition of service and volunteerism. The city has served as host for the Special Olympics of Texas Winter Games and Leadership Conference for five consecutive years, partnering with neighboring communities like Bee Cave. This annual event brings over 1,200 athletes, along with thousands of family members, coaches, and supporters to the area, providing substantial economic benefits to local hotels, restaurants, and businesses. "We get far more out of hosting the Special Olympics than the event itself," Kilgore noted. "We get to cheer on incredible athletes, welcome families from across Texas, and see our community at its very best." Hundreds of local volunteers support the Games each year, reflecting the broader spirit of service that defines Lakeway.
Beyond community events, the conversation addressed practical governance challenges. Mayor Kilgore detailed Lakeway's proactive approach to wildfire mitigation, emergency response coordination, and comprehensive planning, much of which occurs years before council votes become public. The episode highlighted the realities of volunteer city leadership in Texas and the importance of regional collaboration with surrounding municipalities. Civic engagement emerged as critical as Lakeway prepares for future challenges and opportunities.
Looking toward 2026 and the nation's 250th anniversary, the episode underscored how Lakeway's community traditions continue to anchor the city during periods of change. Iconic events like the Fourth of July parade and widespread volunteerism help maintain social cohesion even as the community evolves. The Building Texas Show episode provides insight into how one Texas city navigates the complex intersection of growth management, public safety, and community identity. The full episode is available through the show's official website and major podcast platforms.
