Author: Stephanie Phelps

    September Calendar of Events

    August 30, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

    September 1 – Labor Day


    September 4, 6:00 PM Dinner / 6:30 PM Movie – Bastrop GOP Club Movie Night, featuring “The Enemy Within: Episode 3 (Point of No Return)”
    📍 Club House; 3000 Highway 71 E., Bastrop, TX
    SIGN UP HERE


    September 8, 5:30 PM – Bastrop County Young Republicans (BCYR) Monthly Meeting with guest speaker Curtis Courtney, BCRP Chairman
    📍 715 Chestnut Street, Bastrop, TX

    September 13 – Last day to purchase admission tickets, sponsorship tables, and VIP tickets to BCRP’s 8th Annual Boots & BBQ
    PURCHASE TICKETS HERE


    September 15, 5:30 PM – Bastrop County Conservatives (BCC) Monthly Meeting with guest speaker Trey Trainor, President Trump’s Federal Election Commissioner & Former Chair of the FEC
    📍 Casa Chapala; 1800 Walnut St. Bastrop, TX
    MORE INFORMATION HERE


    September 18, 6:00 PM – Lost Pines Republican Women (LPRW) Monthly Meeting with guest speaker Jonathan Covey, Director of Policy for Texas Values
    📍 LPRW Club House; 3000 Highway 71 E., Bastrop, TX
    MORE INFORMATION HERE


    September 20, 5:00 PM – BCRP’s 8th Annual Boots & BBQ Fundraiser, featuring keynote speaker Sara Gonzales
    📍 Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center; 1408 Chestnut St, Bastrop, TX
    🕔 Doors open at 5:00 PM
    PURCHASE TICKETS HERE


    September 22 6:00 PM – BCRP September Informational Meeting – part 2 or our discussion with Andy Weir on our water
    📍 BCRP Office – 443 Highway 71, Bastrop
    MORE INFORMATION HERE

    September Monthly Informational Meeting

    September Monthly Informational Meeting

    August 30, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

    Part 2 of our “water discussion” with Andy Wier, Executive Director of Simsboro Aquifier Water Defense Fund. Andy will be speaking about Surface Water concerning Bastrop County.

     

    Andy Wier serves as the executive director for the Simsboro Aquifer Water Defense Fund [SAWDF], a Central Texas non-profit working with landowners, business, and government to protect access to groundwater and the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. Andy became involved in groundwater issues after completing a domestic well on his property in Bastrop County. Six months later a billion-dollar utility purchased the water rights to 5,000 acres across the road and applied for permits to sink eight commercial wells into the shared aquifer, potentially drying up Andy’s well. Retired from state service, Andy has immersed himself in groundwater issues and stays busy participating in board meetings of area Groundwater Conservation Districts, regional planning groups that develop the State Water Plan, the Texas Water Association, and testifying at the Texas Legislature. Andy and SAWDF encourage you, and all Texans, to participate in the decision-making process that determines your access to groundwater and Texas’ future water supplies.

    Join us 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆, September  22, 𝗮𝘁 𝟲:𝟯𝟬 𝗣𝗠 (doors at 6:00) at the BCRP Office — 443 Hwy 71 W, Bastrop, TX

    August Calendar of Events

    August 8, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in
    August 7– Bastrop County GOP Club Movie Night. The feature film will be “The Enemy Within: Episodes 1&2 (The Byrne Identity: From Russia with Love)”. Dinner is 6pm, movie begins at 6:30pm. Register now. 
    August 8– Lee County Republican Party presents guest speaker Stewart Rhodes, founder of The Oath Keeper 6:30pm at The Venue on Main, Giddings Texas. Please visit Lee County Republican Party 2025 on Facebook for more details.
    August 11– Bastrop County Young Republicans host their Monthly Meeting with Elizabeth Beyer, 465TH Bastrop County District Judge. The meeting will be held at 5:30pm 715 Chestnut St, Bastrop, TXi
    August 15– Bastrop County Young Republicans and BCRP welcome Luke Tschritter, campaign manager for Congressman Michael Cloud. Friday August 15. 5:00pm 715 Chestnut St, Bastrop, TX
    August 25– BCRP’s Monthly Informational Meeting with guest speaker Anthony Weir. Monday, August 25 (doors at 6:00) at the BCRP Office — 443 Hwy 71 W, Bastrop, TX



    August Monthly Informational Meeting

    August 2, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

    Andy Wier serves as the executive director for the Simsboro Aquifer Water Defense Fund [SAWDF], a Central Texas non-profit working with landowners, business, and government to protect access to groundwater and the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. Andy became involved in groundwater issues after completing a domestic well on his property in Bastrop County. Six months later a billion-dollar utility purchased the water rights to 5,000 acres across the road and applied for permits to sink eight commercial wells into the shared aquifer, potentially drying up Andy’s well. Retired from state service, Andy has immersed himself in groundwater issues and stays busy participating in board meetings of area Groundwater Conservation Districts, regional planning groups that develop the State Water Plan, the Texas Water Association, and testifying at the Texas Legislature. Andy and SAWDF encourage you, and all Texans, to participate in the decision-making process that determines your access to groundwater and Texas’ future water supplies.

    Mr. Wier will be discussing the threats to Bastrop’s local water resources, including big-city withdrawals from the Carrizo‑Wilcox Aquifer — and what it means for your well and community.

     

    Join us 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟮𝟱, 𝗮𝘁 𝟲:𝟯𝟬 𝗣𝗠 (doors at 6:00) at the BCRP Office — 443 Hwy 71 W, Bastrop, TX

     

     

    Week 1 of the Texas Special Legislative Session

    Week 1 of the Texas Special Legislative Session

    July 25, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

    What Happened This Week

    The Texas Legislature convened on Monday, July 21 for a 30-day Special Session. While the agenda includes flood preparedness, property tax relief, THC regulation, and education reform, only one item has been addressed so far: congressional redistricting.

    Speaker Burrows Appoints Bipartisan Redistricting Committee

    On Day 1, Speaker Dustin Burrows appointed the House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting. The committee includes:

    Chair: Rep. Cody Vasut (R–Angleton)

    Vice Chair: Rep. Jon Rosenthal (D–Houston)

    Additional Role: Rep. Armando Martinez (D–Weslaco) also joined the Disaster Preparedness & Flooding Committee

    While framed as a move toward transparency, many Republicans across the state have expressed concern over the appointment of Democrats to this high-stakes redistricting process.

    Redistricting Hearings Begin – No Maps Yet

    Hearings were held this week in Austin, Houston, and Arlington, with testimony from activists, community leaders, and political watchdogs.

    Yet as of Friday, no draft maps have been released.

    Former President Donald Trump publicly endorsed the effort, stating it could “yield five additional GOP seats” and help Republicans maintain a U.S. House majority.

    Democrats objected, citing concerns about minority representation and threatening quorum breaks or lawsuits if the maps are rushed.

    The 2021 maps are still under DOJ scrutiny, which adds pressure to the process.

    Flood Relief Legislation Introduced

    While redistricting dominated headlines, legislators also filed House Bill 165, which would establish a model disaster recovery framework across Texas.

    The bill includes:

    Standardized debris removal and recovery plans

    FEMA coordination processes

    Housing and volunteer support after major floods

    TDEM officials testified this week, acknowledging major breakdowns in emergency coordination — including a lack of warning sirens in hard-hit areas.

    Why It Matters

    The inclusion of Democrats in the redistricting committee has drawn criticism from many Republican voters and grassroots leaders across the state.

    No maps have been shown to the public, raising concerns about backroom deal-making and partisan gerrymandering.

    Flood relief, though urgently needed, has taken a backseat to redistricting.

    What’s Ahead

    EventWhat to Watch
    Redistricting Map ReleasesWill any maps be made public before next week’s hearings?
    Continued HearingsHouse committee meets Thursday & Saturday; Senate meets Friday
    Democrat TacticsWill quorum-breaking or walkouts delay the process?
    Remaining Agenda ItemsFlood relief, STAAR reform, THC regulation, and tax cuts are still pending
    BCRP’S LEGISLATIVE REVIEW: Updated Agenda for the Texas Special Session

    BCRP’S LEGISLATIVE REVIEW: Updated Agenda for the Texas Special Session

    July 16, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

    Governor Greg Abbott has issued an updated 18-point agenda for the upcoming 1st Called Special Session of the 89th Texas Legislature, beginning Monday, July 21, 2025, at 12 PM.

    Key issues include tax relief, education reform, and protection of life and liberties.

    📜 Read the Governor’s full proclamation →
    📘 See the full agenda list →

    🔹 Key Agenda Items and Why They Matter to Conservatives

    #6 – Property Tax Relief

    This session may bring new legislation to lower property taxes and impose local spending limits.
    Why it matters: Conservatives support reducing taxes and government overreach, especially when it comes to protecting homeowners.

    #5 – Eliminate the STAAR Test

    The proposal seeks to eliminate STAAR and replace it with better student and school accountability tools.
    Why it matters: Ending standardized testing gives more power to parents and local school boards, supporting conservative education values.

    #10 – Ban Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying

    Cities, counties, and school districts would be barred from using public money to hire lobbyists.
    Why it matters: Taxpayers should not be forced to fund efforts that work against their values.

    #9 – Protect the Unborn

    This item focuses on enhancing protections for unborn children and providing support for mothers.
    Why it matters: Life is a fundamental conservative principle, and Texas continues to lead the way.

    📋 Full Agenda (All 18 Topics)

    1. Flood warning systems

    2. Emergency communications

    3. Flood relief funding

    4. Disaster response reforms

    5. Eliminate STAAR test

    6. Cut property taxes

    7. Regulate hemp/THC edibles

    8. Ban THC access to minors

    9. Protect unborn children

    10. Ban taxpayer-funded lobbying

    11. Human trafficking victim protections

    12. Protect police personnel records

    13. Protect women’s spaces

    14. AG prosecution powers for election crimes

    15. Congressional redistricting

    16. Deed fraud protection

    17. Water-efficient construction incentives

    18. Judicial department reform

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    BCRP Legislative Review: Abbott Calls Special Session to Revisit Key Vetoed Bills

    BCRP Legislative Review: Abbott Calls Special Session to Revisit Key Vetoed Bills

    July 8, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

    June 23, 2025 — Governor Greg Abbott has called the 1st Special Session of the 89th Texas Legislature, beginning Monday, July 21, 2025, and lasting up to 30 days.

    This session will allow lawmakers to rework and potentially pass six bills that were vetoed at the end of the regular session. The Governor stated that these bills were vetoed due to legal or technical flaws but deal with important topics deserving another look.

    🔍 Six Vetoed Bills Back for Reconsideration

    SB 3 – Hemp-Derived THC Regulation
    Would regulate consumable hemp products like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC.

    Why It Matters: The Governor wants to allow the industry to continue but with rules around age limits, safety testing, and packaging standards.

    SB 648 – Property Document Filing
    Would set new requirements for recording real estate documents.

    Why It Matters: Critics say it may unintentionally harm rural or low-income landowners. A revised version could improve security without overcomplicating inheritance or transfers.

    SB 1253 – Water Impact Fees
    Would change how utilities charge fees for water service expansions.

    Why It Matters: Concerns were raised that property owners might face surprise fees or forced inspections. Lawmakers may refine the bill to protect property rights while funding infrastructure.

    SB 1278 – Trafficking Victim Legal Defense
    Would expand legal protections for people forced into prostitution.

    Why It Matters: Governor Abbott wants to protect real victims but avoid legal loopholes that could shield unrelated criminals. The language may be narrowed.

    SB 1758 – Kiln Restrictions Near Semiconductor Plants
    Would limit industrial activity near chip factories.

    Why It Matters: The Governor cited property rights concerns. A new version could support high-tech development without overregulation.

    SB 2878 – Judicial System Reform
    Would make major changes to court procedures and administration.

    Why It Matters: The bill was considered too broad. The special session offers a chance to separate necessary reforms from overreach.

    📅 Special Session Details

    • Session: 1st Called Special Session of the 89th Legislature

    • Start Date: July 21, 2025

    • Duration: Up to 30 days

    • Topic: Six vetoed bills from the regular session

    📘 Read the Governor’s Proclamation:
    https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-special-session-date-initial-agenda

    July Monthly Meeting w/ Guest Speaker David Glass

    July Monthly Meeting w/ Guest Speaker David Glass

    June 30, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

    David Glass is currently serving as the Bastrop County Commissioner for Precinct 4. He serves on
    numerous boards including the Bastrop County Appraisal District board, he serves as president of the
    Aqua Water Supply Corporation Board, the CARTS Board, the Frontier Bank of Texas Board, the CARTPO
    Board, the Austin Community College Foundation Board, and finally the Austin Community College
    Central Advisory Board and has served on countless boards in the past.
    David is a family man and has been married to his wife, Kathie for 43 years. Together, they have 4
    children and 6 grandchildren. David has been an independent business owner for 40 years and owns a
    national computer software company with clients in 44 states. He owns and operates 2 retail farm and
    ranch supply stores. He is also a hay farmer and rancher in Bastrop, Lee, and Williamson Counties.

    We will be discussing many important issues concerning Bastrop County. 

    Monday, July 28

    Bastrop County Republican Office

    443 Highway 71

    Doors open at 6pm

    BCRP Legislative Review: RPT Urges Endorsement Pause, Chairman George Champions Grassroots Priorities

    BCRP Legislative Review: RPT Urges Endorsement Pause, Chairman George Champions Grassroots Priorities

    June 30, 2025 by Stephanie Phelps in

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    On June 18, 2025, the Republican Party of Texas (RPT) adopted a resolution titled “Calling for Withholding Endorsements Until the Censure Process Is Complete.” This resolution urges President Trump to pause endorsements of Texas officeholders until after November 8, 2025, to allow the Party’s Rule 44 censure process to finish.

    “Therefore, be it resolved … President Trump to withhold his endorsement of Texas Officeholders until after November 8, 2025, by which date the Rule No. 44 censure process would be complete and any penalties would have been imposed.”

    The RPT explains this pause protects due process and preserves trust with grassroots Republicans by ensuring officeholders stay accountable to the platform and priorities they were elected to uphold.

    Read the full resolution here

    From the Chairman

    Chairman Abraham George emphasized that the 2025 Legislative Priorities reflect the work of thousands of Texas grassroots conservatives:

    “As Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas, I am fully committed to upholding the rules, priorities, and platform adopted by our delegates … This is part of a broader conservative mission—to protect election integrity, party sovereignty, and the principles that make Texas strong.”

    “The 89th Legislative Session is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the values that make Texas strong … This list of our top ten focus planks will continue the fight to keep Texas thriving.”

    2025 Legislative Priorities

    ✅ Secure the Texas Border
    ✅ Ban Democrat Chairs in the Texas House
    ✅ Abolish Abortion in Texas
    ✅ Protect Parental Rights
    ✅ Secure Texas Elections & Ban Ranked Choice Voting
    ✅ Protect Children from Gender Ideology
    ✅ Defend Medical Freedom
    ✅ Protect Gun Rights
    ✅ Eliminate Property Tax
    ✅ Achieve Energy Independence

    Read more about the Legislative Priorities

    We will continue to monitor updates from the Republican Party of Texas and share any further developments as they become available. Stay tuned for future Legislative Review updates from BCRP.

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