Hutto residents will vote in November on a proposed $48 million general obligation bond that would finance the construction of a new justice center. The current police headquarters, built in 2001, was designed for a town of roughly 1,200 people. Today, Hutto’s population exceeds 45,000, a growth of more than 3,500% since the facility opened.
Why a new facility is needed
Police Chief Jeffrey Yarbrough explained that the existing 11,000‑square‑foot building has been repeatedly re‑configured—walls moved, doors added, offices split—to squeeze in additional staff. The department now employs 54 certified officers and 16 support personnel, far beyond the original capacity. Historically, Hutto relied on the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office for specialized services, but those agencies can no longer absorb Hutto’s workload.
What the bond would fund
The proposed justice center would include a 45,360‑square‑foot primary police headquarters, a secondary support building, and space for future expansion to meet projected 2035 demands. Designed by PBK Architects, the two‑story facility would house police administration, investigations, patrol operations, evidence storage, training areas, and a 24‑hour safe lobby for community members in distress. Approximately $6 million of the bond would be allocated to build the road needed to access the site, as the current location lacks direct infrastructure.
Cost to homeowners
The city estimates the bond would raise property taxes by about $45 per $100,000 of appraised value each year. For a home at Hutto’s median value of $335,073, that translates to roughly $16.15 per month, or $193.79 annually.
Timeline and next steps
If voters approve the measure, construction is slated to begin in April, with substantial completion targeted for August 2028. The city says the building will be designed for durability, operating around the clock for many years, and will meet security and operational standards that exceed typical commercial construction.
Should the bond fail, Chief Yarbrough affirmed the department will continue to provide high‑quality service, acknowledging both its responsibilities to the community and the limitations it faces.
Community response
Local residents and business owners have expressed support for a modern facility that can keep pace with Hutto’s growth and enhance public safety. PBK Senior Project Manager Heather Rule noted, “We’re amazed at what they’re able to do with the space,” and emphasized that the design aims to be both functional and inviting.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Austin — read the source article.
