Hickland shares updates over coffee

February 20, 2025

Belton Journal

Bell County residents had the opportunity to drink a cup of coffee, listen, and ask questions of House District 55 State Representative Hillary Hickland as she gave updates on legislative priorities.

The coffee meeting was held at the Central Texas Council of Government office on Friday.

“Over the last several months, my team and I have worked tirelessly to ensure the concerns you shared with me on the campaign trail are addressed. From securing our border to strengthening laws to protect our children, I am committed to advancing policies that support the needs of our district and all Texans. I am working for you, House District 55,” said Hickland.

Hickland’s legislative priorities have been border enforcement, protecting Texas’ kids, securing Texas’ elections, government efficiency (DOGE)/cutting red tape, and banning taxpayer funded lobbying.

Other top items on Hickland’s agenda includes House Bills 2 and 3, a two-step plan for school funding and parent choice, the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s current education opportunity and the need for parent empowerment, and Bell County’s Central Texas Water Alliance.

“Water needs vary. Different needs vary in Texas. The Central Texas Water Alliance is collaborating on the water crisis to develop water solutions,” said Hickland.

There’s a projected shortfall of water supply needs. There is a plan to add five to ten endeavors. “Teacher sentiment is at its lowest. House Bill 2 awards an increase in public school funding including an increase to the basic allotment by $220 per student. We are working on eliminating STAAR testing. I’ve personally filed over 30 bills. I’ve met with entities, superintendents, county officials, and law enforcement to make things better. Texas is a place people want to move to and we want to keep it that way,” said Hickland.

Hickland is on the veterans committee because House District 55 has many veterans.

There were note cards and pens available for questions asked by meeting attendees for Hickland to answer. Questions were read aloud by Hickland’s chief of staff Ruth Mesta.

“DEI was eliminated from universities, what about high schools,” said Mesta.

“We are focusing on academics,” said Hickland.

“There’s a property appraisal issue. Property tax relief is needed and citizens get frustrated,” said Mesta.

“I just heard from the comptroller about appraisals. I spoke with Kevin Cook with Bell County Appraisal District about how the comptroller compared other counties across the state,” said Hickland.

Hickland ended the meeting by speaking about her support of House Bills 2 and 3 again.

“I want to bring understanding that the education bill empowers parents to choose whether their children attend public school or are homeschooled. It’s confusing why so many public-school educators are self-indicting. A vast majority, 95 percent, of families choose public school funding that comes from the general revenue. Around half of the budget of the state of Texas goes to education. Nobody is giving up on public schools. I met with superintendents and board of trustees. There’s a lot of fears in public educators for school choice. Parents are motivated by love and the future of their children,” said Hickland.

Hickland encouraged attendees to contact her for any local issues she may be able to help address.