The Buda City Council meeting on November 6, 2024, focused on the adoption of a new resolution to establish guidelines for holiday displays in the city. The proposed policy aims to regulate holiday decorations along the Bridge Belt from the day after Thanksgiving through January 3.

City officials noted that while holiday displays have been allowed since 2021, a formal policy had not been enacted. This new resolution is necessary to ensure public safety and to manage potential hazards associated with the displays. The guidelines will cover various aspects, including the location of displays, setbacks from city infrastructure, materials used, height, width, lighting, sound, timing, and signage. However, the policy will not regulate the content of the displays, allowing for a diverse representation of holidays.

Under the new policy, applicants will be limited to one display each, with a total of four displays permitted in the designated area. The application process has been updated to align with the new guidelines, and there will be no cost for applying for a display within the specified footprint. However, there will still be fees for holiday lighting applications.

The council's decision to formalize these guidelines reflects a commitment to inclusivity and safety while allowing residents to celebrate various holidays. The next steps will involve finalizing the resolution and implementing the new policy for the upcoming holiday season.