Official WESTIES 2026 Ballot

Since 2005, the Westlake Chamber of Commerce has recognized outstanding Westlake community members for their efforts over the past year. Emphasis is placed on community and philanthropic eandeavors as well as economic impact.

Three finalists per category have been selected from hundreds of nominations by the WESTIES Nominating Committee. Only ONE vote per category and only ONE vote per device will be allowed. 
Finalists will be recognized and winners will be announced at the 2026 WESTIES Luncheon on Friday, February 27th, 2026 at Austin Country Club. 

Purchase your tickets at 

https://tinyurl.com/2026westies

WESTLAKE 2025 NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

 
This WESTIE will be given to a business that has been open for less than 2 years. They should have also demonstrated one or more of the following: Growth and Stability, Commitment to Quality, Creative or Unique Solutions to Challenges, Entrepreneurial Spirit, and/or an Overall Contribution to The Greater Westlake Community

 
The Finalists are: Cafe Largesse | JoJo's Bakery | The Austin Epicure

CLICK HERE to read about each finalist.

WESTLAKE 2025 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

This WESTIE will be given to a business that has been in operation for more than 2 years and has consistently offered outstanding service and/or product to its customers and displays a strong commitment to community involvement in the greater Westlake area. 

The Finalists are: Hotel Viata | P. Terry's | The Steam Team

CLICK HERE to read about each finalist.

WESTLAKE 2025 NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR

This WESTIE will be awarded to a non-profit organization that has recognized a need within our community and who through community responsibility, innovation, growth, sound business practices and community partnerships has served our community with vision and integrity.

The Finalists are: Abigail E. Keller Foundation | Make-A-Wish Central and South Texas | Wonders & Worries

CLICK HERE to read about each finalist.

WESTLAKE 2025 EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

This WESTIE will go to a Westlake area teacher or administrator in recognition of his or her outstanding contributions to the educational community and to the enrichment in the lives of children through academic achievement. He or she inspires students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn, has the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues, and plays an active and useful role in the community as well as in the school.

The Finalists are: Paul Cooley | Eddie Dauernheim | Carol Reese

 
CLICK HERE to read about each finalist.

WESTLAKE 2025 YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR(S) OF THE YEAR

This WESTIE is awarded to an individual student or group of students in the Westlake area who have attempted to redefine the way we live, work and play. With an undeniable hunger for opportunity and an overwhelming ability to find creative solutions to old problems, this individual or group has a viable business concept that will generate revenue.

The Finalists are: ECOGLOW | Sarah's Banners | Westlake Power Washing

 
CLICK HERE to read about each finalist.

WESTLAKE 2025 YOUNG CITIZEN(S) OF THE YEAR

This WESTIE will be awarded to a student in the Westlake area who has contributed time, energy, and heart to both their school community and the Westlake community at large. It is in recognition of their outstanding contributions through community service activities that have made them an inspirational role model for other students in the Westlake community. 

 
The Finalists are:  Mayan Kasturi | Parker Lamme | Tara Srinivasan

 
CLICK HERE to read about each finalist.

WESTLAKE 2025 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

This WESTIE will be given to an individual in the Greater Westlake Area who has contributed time, energy, and heart to the community, sometimes unnoticed. They are an inspiration for others to follow as they can influence others to accomplish the objective by providing purpose, direction, and motivation. It is in recognition of their outstanding contributions through civic and community service activities that have made them an inspirational role model for the Westlake community.

 
The Finalists are:  Ellen Balthazar | Diane Dealy | Cord Shiflet

CLICK HERE to read about each finalist.

Thank you for taking the time to vote. Finalists will be recognized and winners will be announced and awarded at the 2026 WESTIES Awards Luncheon on Friday, February 27th, 2026 at Austin Country Club. 

Please join us in honoring the finalists and winners! Tickets can be purchased at https://tinyurl.com/2026westies.

For questions, call the Westlake Chamber office at 512.327.3088.