🌵 Is The Square worth a $36.5 million incentive?

We’ve spent a lot of time wondering if AI is going to replace us. I think we’re asking the wrong question.

The biggest shift isn’t artificial intelligence. It’s amplified intelligence.

Like every great tool before it, AI won’t reward the people who know everything. It’ll reward the people who never stop learning. Curiosity, good judgment, and the willingness to adapt have always been valuable.

That’s why I don’t think the next decade belongs to the best programmers. It belongs to the best learners.

Cheers,
Nolan

The Gist: Lakeway City Council reviewed a revised incentive proposal for The Square at Lakeway, a large mixed-use development planned with shops, restaurants and other destinations. The developer could receive up to $36.5 million over 25 years, but only from new tax revenue the project actually generates and only if it meets the agreement’s requirements. City estimates show Lakeway would retain about $39.5 million in new tax revenue during that time. No deal has been approved yet.

Why It Matters: The Square could bring Lakeway new places to eat, shop and gather, but the city is still deciding how much future tax revenue it should share to help move the project forward. Supporters see it as a way to attract a stronger development and grow the city’s tax base. The big question for residents is whether the long-term payoff would be worth the incentives.

The Gist: West Lake Hills has added complimentary monthly yard-waste collection through Texas Disposal Systems. On the third Saturday of each month, residents can set out brush, branches and paper lawn bags for curbside pickup, as long as everything follows the city’s collection guidelines.

Why It Matters: If you’ve been trimming trees or catching up on yard work, you now have a regular way to clear out the green waste without waiting for a special collection event. It’s a simple convenience that should make year-round yard cleanup a little easier.

More details here.

Simply Ramen and Gyoza is a cozy Bee Cave stop for steaming bowls of ramen and fresh, house-made dumplings. The broths are full of flavor, with options ranging from classic tonkotsu to spicy and truffle-forward bowls.

The family-owned team also serves sushi and Japanese small plates, but the ramen and daily-made gyoza are the real draw. It’s an easy pick for a quick lunch or a warm, casual dinner.

More details here.

TOPS Pest Control is the local crew keeping Hill Country homes bug-free, with no contracts and no stress.

🐶 Safe for pets, proven to work
🐜 Covers ants, roaches, scorpions and more
✅ No-Nonsense Guarantee: not happy, they'll fix it or pay someone who will

👉 Call Jenna & Kyle to book: (737) 338-7540 or check them out HERE.

Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏

Cupprimo at the Lake opened in Lakeway earlier this year, bringing a longtime Austin cupcake favorite to its second location. The shop pairs handcrafted coffee with a rotating lineup of cupcakes, daily quiche and seasonal drinks.

Stop in for a morning coffee, an afternoon treat or a box of cupcakes for something worth celebrating. Gluten-free flavors change daily, and vegan cupcakes are available by special order. It’s cheerful, easygoing and just sweet enough to brighten your day.

More details here.

🌱 Our $29 lawn offer is still available... but not for long. If your lawn could use a boost, now's a great time to jump into our 9-round Fertilization & Weed Control Program.

Your first application is just $29 (up to 5,000 sq. ft.) and includes professional fertilization, pre-emergent weed control, insect prevention, disease monitoring, and more.

It's everything your Central Texas lawn needs to stay healthy through the rest of the season.

Claim your $29 first application HERE.

🎩 Magic Show with John O'Bryant | Public Library | Bee Cave | 07/17 | More
Enjoy an entertaining magic show packed with surprises for all ages.

🎶 Hill Country Serenade | Lake Travis Community Library | Lakeway | 07/17 | More
Enjoy timeless classics from the Great American Songbook performed live.

🧜 Paint with Princess Ariel | The Art Garage | Austin | 07/18 | More
Paint mermaid-themed pottery alongside Princess Ariel in a magical family event.

🎄 Christmas in July | Lakeway Swim Center | Lakeway | 07/19 | More
Celebrate with Santa, festive activities, and summer fun at the pool.

🧠 Family Trivia Night | Little Woodrow's | Bee Cave | 07/21 | More
Team up for family-friendly trivia, laughs, and fun prizes.

🍋 Parks Lemonade Stand | Bee Cave Central Park | Bee Cave | 07/22 | More
Enjoy free lemonade and meet the team caring for your local parks.

🪴 Plant Bingo | Jester King Brewery | Austin | 07/17 | More
Play plant-themed bingo and take home a new leafy friend.

🎸 Shakedown Live | Little Woodrow's | Bee Cave | 07/17 | More
Enjoy classic rock, Motown, soul, and country favorites all evening.

🎨 Art for Adults with Sherry Fields | Westbank Library | Austin | 07/21 | More
Explore abstract painting techniques and create your own unique artwork.

🧘 Prime of Life Yoga™ | Laura’s Library | Austin | 07/22 | More
Improve strength, flexibility, and balance with a gentle, guided yoga class.

🎵 Sound Bath Meditation | Library | Lakeway | 07/23 | More
Relax and recharge with soothing sound vibrations in a guided meditation session.

🚗 Texas Heat Wave 2026 | Travis County Expo Center | Austin | 07/17–07/19 | More
Custom vehicles and high-octane automotive showcases all weekend.

⚔️ A Night in Valhalla: Reverdie Ball | Distribution Hall | Austin | 07/18 | More
Step into a Norse-inspired fantasy filled with music, mystery, and adventure.

🪴 Plantmania | Palmer Events Center | Austin | 07/18–07/19 | More
Discover rare houseplants and botanical treasures from around the world.

Ever thought about advertising with us? Hit reply and tell us about your business!

Thanks for reading West Austin Scoop! See you next week!