Navigating Growth and Preserving Community Spirit: A Look Inside Lakeway with Mayor Tom Kilgore

Leadership in Times of Growth: The Lakeway Story

As the host of The Building Texas Show, I have the privilege of engaging with some of the most visionary leaders across our great state. In a recent episode, my conversation with Mayor Tom Kilgore of Lakeway, Texas, stood out as a compelling exploration of leadership, community, and the challenges and opportunities presented by growth. Lakeway, a city nestled in the Hill Country, has seen its population nearly double over the past decade. This conversation brought to light how the city's leadership is navigating these changes while steadfastly holding onto the community's values and civic pride.

Mayor Kilgore shared insights into the delicate balance of managing private property rights, infrastructure investment, economic development, and quality of life, all while striving to preserve Lakeway's small-town essence. His perspective, "You can’t turn up the tap and pull up the drawbridge in Texas," underscores the inevitability of growth but emphasizes the necessity of discipline, planning, and cooperation to navigate it successfully.

A Beacon of Volunteerism and Service

One of the episode's central themes was Lakeway's distinguished role as the host city for the Special Olympics of Texas Winter Games and Leadership Conference, an event it has proudly hosted for five consecutive years. This annual gathering not only brings over 1,200 athletes to the city but also shines a spotlight on the region's hospitality and the heart of its community. Mayor Kilgore's reflection, "We get far more out of hosting the Special Olympics than the event itself," speaks volumes about the community's deep-rooted culture of volunteerism and service. Lakeway's commitment to the Games, which draws thousands of family members, coaches, and supporters, mirrors the broader spirit of service that defines the city.

Preparing for a Bright Future

The discussion also ventured into how Lakeway is proactively addressing challenges such as wildfire mitigation, emergency response coordination, and comprehensive long-term planning. These efforts, often initiated years in advance, exemplify the city's forward-thinking approach to growth and safety. Moreover, Mayor Kilgore's commentary on the realities of volunteer city leadership, regional collaboration, and the importance of civic engagement offered a window into the complexities of governing a rapidly expanding community.

As we look ahead to 2026 and the nation's 250th anniversary, Lakeway's dedication to community traditions, such as its iconic Fourth of July parade and city-wide volunteerism, remains a cornerstone of its identity. These traditions not only anchor the city amidst its evolution but also highlight the enduring strength of community spirit in the face of change.

In closing, my conversation with Mayor Kilgore reaffirmed the intricate balance between growth and community values that cities across Texas are striving to achieve. Lakeway's journey offers valuable insights for other communities navigating similar paths. I invite you to explore this episode and others as we continue to uncover the stories of leadership, innovation, and community spirit that are building the future of Texas.

For those interested in learning more about Lakeway or The Building Texas Show, please visit our website or tune into the episode on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.