Discuss, consider and take appropriate action on participation in the Williamson County Road Bond Program under the County's Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for improvements to Ranch to Market Road 2243 (Leander Road) Phase 1A, Williamson County, Texas.

The Leander Road project area is a 7.8-mile-long linear corridor southwest of the City of Georgetown, extending east from US Highway (US) 183A to Southwest Bypass. The project has been broken into phases. Phase 1A consists of the western project area segment (19.1 acres) and is the only portion of the project currently seeking incidental coverage via participation in the Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP).  Karst and other species impacts will be covered under Endangered Species Act section 7 consultation 2024-0020457; participation in the HCP will provide mitigation for impacts to the Golden-cheeked warbler (GCWA).  The biological opinion rendered under consultation 2024-0020457 indicates the need for mitigation impacts to 2.0 acres of direct and 21.7 acres of indirect impacts to GCWA habitat.
Staff recommends the authorization of the County Judge (or designee) to acknowledge/sign the Determination Letter and Participation Agreement (attached) to enroll the project under the Williamson County Regional Habitat Conservation Plan WCCF File #20250108 and to sign any related documents as may be required.