Round Top Pride

To the Editor:

As a member of the Town Council for the Town of Round Top, allow me to clarify a couple of items in Andy Behlen’s article in the Record Aug. 26.

I represent the residents of Round Top. Many of these residents have expressed to me their dislike of all the tents on the Courthouse Square during designated events They have expressed that the tents look messy, and they would prefer to see green space around the Courthouse with shady places for visitors to sit under the beautiful old oak trees. I voted to eliminate vendors on the square (as did the majority of the Aldermen) because of input from residents. The Town Council has an obligation to do what’s in the best interest of the community. And in March 2025 when the Town Council passed Resolution 2025-240 it clearly stated why the Town Council was taking the step to not issue any vendor permits during the town’s designated events. The Mayor has no vote on actions the Council takes.

Mark Neely, who enjoys sparing with the Mayor, is not a voter in Round Top, at least his name doesn’t appear on the Voter List, so I’m not sure why he is so interested in the affairs of Round Top. He and a few others keep trying to make the Council’s decision about the DYD. This is not and never has been about the DYD despite what some people think. The Town Council has an obligation to do what’s in the best interest of the residents of Round Top.

A final point in the article is about ownership of the building. The execution of the Deed in the early 1980’s by the sitting Judge (who was also an attorney) was authorized by Commissioners Court, notarized and recorded in Fayette County property records.

I love this town and am honored to live here and represent the residents. God bless Round Top.

Karen A. Duddlesten Round Top