Round Rock wants to keep money at home

ROUND ROCK, Texas (KXAN) - In an effort to boost retail sales, the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce launched a new campaign called 'Shop the Rock.'

Through billboards and media ads, 'Shop the Rock' encourages Round Rock residents to spend their money in the city, and it encourages potential customers from neighboring towns to also shop in Round Rock.

Because the city has such low property taxes, it is especially reliant on sales-tax revenues.

"We want people who live here to know the importance of staying here, keeping our dollars here, because it supports our police, fire, the city," said Tom Manskey, chamber of commerce member. "And it's just something you need to do."

'Shop the Rock' will feature special events such as Restaurant Week, and also offer up discount coupon books good at local businesses.

One business that appears recession proof is the renowned Round Rock Donut shop. Popularized on national television, the Round Rock Donut shop has been around since 1926. Lines rope around the block on the weekends, as people wait in their cars for tasty treats.

"Our shop has gotten busier and busier and busier," said manager Deanne Moehn. "As Round Rock has grown, so has our business. Round Rock has been very good to us."

Round Rock has come a long way just since 1970, when the city boasted one bank, one traffic light and a police department that consisted of one night watchman