LCRA, PEC award $45,000 grant to Marble Falls Area Chamber of Commerce to restore storm-damaged building

 

Renovations will rebuild vital hub for workforce development, business support and community collaboration

June 12, 2026

Key Takeaways

  • LCRA and PEC award the Marble Falls Area Chamber of Commerce a $45,000 grant to renovate its storm-damaged chamber building.
  • The renovations will restore a safe, modern space for workforce training, business support, public meetings and regional collaboration.
  • The grant is one of 41 being awarded through LCRA’s Community Grants program through June. LCRA will accept applications in July for the next round of grants.

LCRA and PEC representatives present a $45,000 grant to the Marble Falls Area Chamber of Commerce for restoration of the chamber’s storm-damaged building. The grant is part of LCRA’s Community Grants program. Pictured, from left to right, are: Mitzi Birdsong, former chamber board chair; Susan Patten, LCRA Regional Affairs representative; Beth Koennecke, PEC external relations representative; Taylor Smith, chamber board treasurer; Kim Kankel, chamber executive director; Margaret D. “Meg” Voelter, LCRA Board member; Caleb Kranzel, Marble Falls city manager; Carol Freeman, LCRA Board member; Katie Skinner, chamber director of events; Felicia Petersen, chamber board chair-elect; Christian Fletcher, Marble Falls Economic Development Corporation executive director; and Russell Sander, Marble Falls assistant city manager.

MARBLE FALLS, Texas – The Marble Falls Area Chamber of Commerce soon will renovate its storm-damaged building, restoring a vital community resource for businesses, nonprofits and workforce partners, thanks to a $45,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority and Pedernales Electric Cooperative.

The LCRA Community Grant, along with $119,127 in matching funds from the chamber, will support complete interior and exterior renovations to the chamber building following significant storm damage and mold contamination. Improvements will modernize the facility, enhance accessibility and restore a safe, functional space for workforce training, business counseling, leadership programs, public meetings and regional collaboration.

“The LCRA grant will make a tremendous difference in helping us create a welcoming, updated space that reflects the vibrancy of our community and the businesses we serve throughout the Highland Lakes region,” said Kim Kankel, executive director of the Marble Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. “This investment is about more than a building; it’s about creating a place where people can meet, network, build relationships and opportunities for growth can flourish.”

The building sustained significant flood damage last June and July. As repairs began, workers discovered mold that required internal and external remediation. When the renovations are complete, the building can once again be used by area nonprofit organizations, community groups and partner agencies, as well as by the chamber, out-of-town employers conducting job fairs and more.

“We are deeply grateful for LCRA’s partnership and belief in our vision,” Kankel said. “Their support will leave a lasting impact on our chamber, our members and the community we proudly serve for years to come.”

This is one of 41 grants awarded recently through LCRA Community Grants. These grants are awarded twice a year as part of LCRA’s effort to give back to communities in its wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas.

Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in July. More information is available at www.lcra.org/grants.

Contact Info

Clara Tuma
512-578-3292
After hours: 512-944-6719
[email protected]

About LCRA

The Lower Colorado River Authority serves communities across Texas by managing the lower Colorado River, generating and transmitting wholesale electric power, providing clean water supplies, operating telecommunications infrastructure, and owning parks for outdoor recreation. LCRA delivers power, water and infrastructure that support the region’s growth and quality of life. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. Created by the Texas Legislature in 1934, LCRA receives no state appropriations.

About PEC

Founded in 1938 by then-Congressman Lyndon B. Johnson, Pedernales Electric Cooperative Inc. is the nation’s largest member-owned distribution electric cooperative serving more than 430,000 meters across the Texas Hill Country. An industry-recognized leader providing outstanding member service and reliable electricity, PEC conducts its business via a transparent and democratic process and encourages member participation.