Highland Village hosts successful teen bonfire event in partnership with local public safety

In the heart of Highlands, Texas, the city council meeting on March 25, 2025, buzzed with excitement as community leaders celebrated the success of a new initiative aimed at engaging local teens. The Parks and Recreation Department recently hosted its first teen bonfire event, which drew an unexpected crowd of around 100 young attendees. This event, born from the comprehensive master plan adopted in 2023, was designed to bolster community programming for teenagers.

The bonfire, held in March, featured hayrides, s'mores, and games, fostering a sense of community among the youth. The collaborative effort involved local police, fire departments, and marketing teams, showcasing a united front in creating a safe and enjoyable environment for teens. The event's success has prompted plans to move future gatherings to the DoubleTree venue, allowing for expanded offerings and activities.

As the council discussed the event's positive impact, Mayor Charlotte Wilcox was commended for her involvement, which was credited with enhancing the event's reach and effectiveness. The council expressed enthusiasm for future events, including potential volleyball tournaments aimed at attracting older teens.

However, the meeting also highlighted pressing concerns regarding public school funding. Several residents voiced their worries about the impact of underfunding on local education. Antonella Longo and Georgiana Bustos passionately advocated for increased financial support for public schools, emphasizing the urgent need for legislative action to address the funding crisis. They pointed out that many Texas school districts are facing significant deficits, which could lead to school closures and a decline in community quality of life.

Longo urged the council to uphold their commitment to supporting public education, while Bustos provided detailed statistics illustrating the dire situation facing local schools. Both speakers stressed that without immediate action, the consequences would ripple through the community, affecting property values, local economies, and future opportunities for students.

As the meeting concluded, the council was left with a mix of celebration for the successful teen event and a sobering reminder of the challenges facing local education. The discussions underscored the importance of community engagement and the need for continued advocacy to ensure a bright future for Highlands' youth.