Why Buc-ee's in Boerne Makes Economic Sense: A Look at the Local Benefits 🚀

Jul 3

**Introduction**

Growth is coming to Boerne, and with it comes an opportunity that could bring substantial economic benefits to our community: the proposed **Buc-ee's** travel center along Interstate 10. While change can naturally stir debate, a careful and analytical look at the facts makes it clear that Buc-ee's offers a positive path forward for Boerne—one that boosts local tax revenue, creates jobs, and supports community services without compromising the unique charm of our historic downtown. 🏡

📈 Economic Boost Without Downtown Disruption

One of the primary concerns in Boerne is maintaining the small-town character that residents cherish. The proposed Buc-ee's location along I-10 ensures that this large-scale development is positioned to serve interstate travelers rather than altering the historic fabric of Main Street or our beloved Hill Country vibe.

✅ Captures spending from travelers already passing through ✅ Avoids increasing local downtown traffic ✅ Preserves Boerne's cultural identity 🌳

💰 Significant Tax Revenue for Local Schools and Infrastructure

According to publicly available projections, Buc-ee's in Boerne is expected to generate approximately $25 million in gross annual sales (source). With an 8% sales tax rate, this translates into roughly $2 million in total annual sales tax collections.

🔹 Through a 50% sales tax rebate over a 20-year Chapter 380 agreement (source), Boerne and Kendall County still retain new tax revenue that would not exist without the project.

🎓 Boerne ISD will receive approximately $180,000 annually in property tax revenue from the Buc-ee's site—funds dedicated to supporting local schools without burdening homeowners.

🔹 Additional tax income can help fund:

Infrastructure improvements 🛍️
Public safety 🚒
Community amenities

This helps mitigate future property tax increases by expanding the commercial tax base rather than over-relying on residential taxes.

💼 New Jobs and Ripple Economic Effects

Buc-ee's will create approximately 170 jobs with a first-year payroll of around $5.8 million (source). These are stable, full-time positions that provide wages, benefits, and career advancement.

The ripple effects include:

💸 More disposable income for local families
🍔 Increased spending at nearby shops and restaurants
🏡 More support for local businesses and services

Each paycheck circulates through the community, bolstering our local economy from multiple angles.

🏗️ Catalyst for Interstate Commercial Development

Positioning Buc-ee's along I-10 doesn't just benefit the single store—it serves as a catalyst for additional commercial development along the corridor:

🛍️ Spurs new businesses attracted by increased traffic
📈 Enhances commercial property values
💰 Expands the tax base, further reducing the need for residential property tax hikes

The result is a balanced economy that supports essential services and helps protect homeowners from steep tax increases.

🌳 Balanced Growth That Respects Boerne's Heritage

Change is inevitable, but thoughtful, strategic development allows Boerne to grow in ways that benefit the entire community while preserving what makes this place special. With careful planning, Buc-ee's will:

🔹 Serve predominantly interstate traffic 🔹 Keep its footprint away from historic downtown 🔹 Generate millions in new tax revenue 🔹 Create high-quality local jobs 🔹 Encourage additional responsible commercial development

This is not a zero-sum scenario. Boerne can thrive economically while retaining its unique charm, and Buc-ee's is an example of how that balance can be achieved.

🎉 Conclusion

The proposed Buc-ee's in Boerne represents an opportunity to harness the benefits of increased commerce, new jobs, and expanded tax revenue in a way that protects and preserves the heart of our community.

It's an investment in Boerne's future that:

🎓 Supports our schools
🛍️ Funds vital infrastructure
💸 Helps manage residential tax burdens

—all without sacrificing the town's small-town character.

If you have thoughts on this topic, I encourage you to share them and stay engaged. Growth is coming—the question is whether we shape it to benefit Boerne or let opportunity pass us by.