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Welcome TO HAYS COUNTY!

Hays County is in Central Texas. It was established in 1848. Our County Seat is
San Marcos. Visit this
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Announcements

By Natalie Frels April 11, 2025
Click here for the original notice. This Notice is posted according to the Texas Open Meetings Act. (VERNONS TEXAS CODES ANN. GOV. CODE CH.551). The Hays County Sheriff’s Office Civil Service Commission will hold a meeting at 10 am on the 17 th day of April 2025 , in the Hays County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Building, 1 st floor, Media Room located at 810 South Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos, Texas 78666. An Open Meeting will be held concerning the following subjects: 1. Call the meeting to order 2. Roll Call 3. Public Comments, if any 4. Approval of March 20, 2025, minutes 5. Discussion and possible action to appoint a member of the Civil Service Commission to the Board of Examiners (Kresta) 6. Discussion and possible action to approve the selection of Donnoe and Associates for promotional exam and assessment services. (Kresta) 7. Discussion and possible action to appoint an e-mail address and physical address for Public Information Requests to be received. (Kresta) 8. Adjournment Executive Sessions The Civil Service Commission will announce that it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel to discuss matters of litigation and personnel matters as specifically listed on this agenda. The Civil Service Commission may also announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, to receive advice from Legal Counsel regarding any other item on this agenda. ADA Compliance Hays County encourages compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the conduct of all public meetings. To that end, persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aids such as an interpreter for a person who is hearing impaired are requested to contact the Director of the Civil Service Commission at (512) 393-7838 or via e-mail at Sandra.Galvan@hayscountytx.gov as soon as the meeting is posted (72 hours before the meeting) or as soon as practical so that appropriate arrangements can be made. While it would be helpful to receive as much advance notice as possible, Hays County will make every reasonable effort to accommodate any valid request regardless of when it is received. Braille is not available.
By Natalie Frels March 28, 2025
To view the original notice, click here. To: All interested Agencies Groups and Individuals Date of publication: March 28th, 2025  This is to give notice that the Texas General Land Office (GLO) will conduct an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11990 and Executive Order 11988, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands to determine the potential effect that Hays County single family disaster recovery Homeowner Reimbursement Program (HRP) and Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) actions in wetlands and surrounding Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) floodplains will have on the human environment. The GLO was allocated HUD funding to help address unmet housing needs as a result of the 2024 Texas severe storms and flooding, including Hurricane Beryl (Beryl). On May 15, 2024, a request was declared for a major disaster due to severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding beginning on April 26, 2024, and continued for several weeks. From July 5 to July 9, 2024, Beryl caused extensive wind damage, flooding, and power outages across multiple regions, particularly along the Texas Gulf Coast and inland communities. Wind gusts exceeding 90 mph and rainfall totals surpassing 15 inches in some areas led to significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and businesses. The State of Texas Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) will fund two residential housing programs for eligible county residents whose homes sustained damage from the 2024 disasters. The HAP provides funding primarily for low-to-moderate-income homeowners with direct construction support for storm-impacted owner-occupied single-family residential housing. The activities covered by this program include demolition, rehabilitation, reconstruction, manufactured house replacement, or new construction and their associated elevation, mitigation, utility, site improvements, and relocation assistance, as needed. The HRP provides funding for low to moderate-income owner-occupied single-family housing (including manufactured housing). It allows homeowners to be reimbursed for certain out-of-pocket expenses including Small Business Administration disaster home loans, incurred for repairs to their dwelling including elevation, wells and septic needs, reconstruction, rehabilitation, manufactured house replacement, and mitigation. The size of the proposed site, proposed number of units, and project footprint are not currently known, however, as specific sites are identified, they will be assessed for potential impacts related to land use, floodplains, and wetlands. Mitigation measures will be applied as necessary to minimize adverse effects. Within Hays County, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) effective maps include 26,763 acres (6.2%) in the 100-year floodplain Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) Zones A/AE/AO, 11,808 acres (2.7%) in the regulatory floodway, and 0 acres (0%) within the Coastal High Hazard Areas Zone V/VE. Zone X encompasses 5,689 acres (1.3%) of Hays County within the 500-year floodplain and 388,631 acres (89.9%) of Hays County outside all SFHA-designated floodplains. Approximately 7,052 acres (1.6%) within Hays County are designated as wetlands. This includes freshwater emergent wetlands, freshwater forested/shrub wetlands, freshwater ponds, lakes, and riverine wetlands. The extent of the FFRMS floodplain will be determined at a site-specific level using the 0.2 percent flood approach (0.2PFA) or the freeboard value approach (FVA) when appropriate. In addition, siting within the Limit of Moderate Wave Action (LiMWA)/Coastal A Zone will be determined at the site-specific level. Activities within the LiMWA will carry the same mitigation and protection strategy as siting within a coastal high-hazard area (Zone V/VE). The floodplains and wetlands within Hays County serve important environmental functions that contribute to the county’s ecological health and community resilience. These areas provide floodwater storage and conveyance, helping to absorb and slow floodwaters, which reduces downstream flooding and protects nearby properties and infrastructure. Additionally, they support groundwater recharge and discharge, maintaining local water supplies and sustaining the base flow of rivers and streams. The natural vegetation within these floodplains and wetlands also plays a key role in erosion control, stabilizing soils, and preventing sedimentation in waterways. Furthermore, these areas contribute to water quality maintenance by filtering pollutants and sediments, ultimately improving both human and ecological health. In inland counties, they help regulate watershed health, agricultural water retention, and riparian connectivity, ensuring the stability of local water systems and ecosystems. Beyond their ecological significance, these floodplains and wetlands hold intrinsic values that benefit the community. They provide recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and kayaking, contributing to tourism and outdoor enjoyment. These areas also serve as educational and scientific resources, offering opportunities for research and environmental education on hydrology, ecology, and resilience. There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in the FFRMS floodplain and wetland and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the FFRMS floodplain and wetland, alternative methods to serve the same project purpose, and methods to minimize and mitigate project impacts on the FFRMS floodplain and wetland. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about the FFRMS floodplain and wetland can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in the FFRMS floodplain and wetland, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk. Written comments must be received by GLO at the following address on or before April 14th, 2025: Texas General Land Office ATTN: David Camarena, Director Community Development & Revitalization (CDR) Division PO Box 12873, Austin TX 78711-2873 A full description of the project may also be reviewed from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M on weekdays at the address above. Comments may also be submitted via email at env.reviews@recovery.texas.gov.
By Natalie Frels March 14, 2025
To view the original Notice of Meeting, click here . This Notice is posted according to the Texas Open Meetings Act. (VERNONS TEXAS CODES ANN. GOV. CODE CH.551). The Hays County Sheriff’s Office Civil Service Commission will hold a meeting at 10 am on the 20 th day of March 2025 , in the Hays County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Building, 1 st floor, Media Room located at 810 South Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos, Texas 78666. An Open Meeting will be held concerning the following subjects: 1. Call the meeting to order 2. Roll Call 3. Public Comments, if any 4. Approval of February 18, 2025, minutes 5. Discussion and possible action regarding the creation of a County email for Commission members to utilize for commission business (Keller) 6. Discussion and possible action regarding adoption of drafted discipline hearing procedures (Keller/Asst CDA Young) 7. Discussion and possible action regarding amendment to Section 3.07.1- Employee Eligibility List (Keller/Chief Deputy Bailey) 8. Discussion and possible action regarding Chapter 8 Promotions and Eligibility and other related processes that fall under the Commission's purview. (Kresta) 9. Adjournment Executive Sessions The Civil Service Commission will announce that it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, pursuant to Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code, to receive advice from Legal Counsel to discuss matters of litigation and personnel matters as specifically listed on this agenda. The Civil Service Commission may also announce it will go into Executive Session, if necessary, to receive advice from Legal Counsel regarding any other item on this agenda. ADA Compliance Hays County encourages compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the conduct of all public meetings. To that end, persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aids such as an interpreter for a person who is hearing impaired are requested to contact the Director of the Civil Service Commission at (512) 393-7838 or via e-mail at Sandra.Galvan@hayscountytx.gov as soon as the meeting is posted (72 hours before the meeting) or as soon as practical so that appropriate arrangements can be made. While it would be helpful to receive as much advance notice as possible, Hays County will make every reasonable effort to accommodate any valid request regardless of when it is received. Braille is not available.
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News

By Natalie Frels May 21, 2025
BUDA, TEXAS, MAY 21, 2025 – The Onion Creek Trail, a 2021 Buda Bonds project and highly anticipated addition to Buda’s trail network, is officially opening to the public on Friday, May 30, 2025. This new multi-use trail runs nearly 1.5 miles along Onion Creek near the Buda Amphitheater and City Park. First identified through Buda's 2021 Parks Master Plan, the Onion Creek Trail aims to improve the City’s growing trail network and connect community destinations, including Buda City Park and Garison Park. The trail features a paved path extending from Old Black Colony Road to Garison Park and includes a pedestrian bridge spanning Onion Creek.  “The Onion Creek Trail is a meaningful addition to Buda’s growing trail system and a reflection of our commitment to enhancing connectivity, outdoor recreation and quality of life for our residents,” said Buda City Manager Micah Grau. “We’re especially grateful to Hays County for their partnership and funding support, which helped make this project a reality. Collaborations like this are essential to building a stronger, more connected community.” Funding for the project totaled more than $1 million, including $550,000 from the Hays County 2020 Parks & Open Space Bond and $553,500 from the 2021 Buda Bond. The project was a collaboration between the City of Buda, Hays County and the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), reflecting a shared commitment in expanding outdoor facilities. “We are thrilled to cross this project finish line and continue growing the trail system in Buda and Central Texas,” said Hays County Precinct 4 Commissioner Walt Smith. “Investing in trails like this improves our quality of life and ensures many generations will enjoy Buda’s natural beauty.” A ribbon-cutting celebration for the new trail will be held on Friday, May 30, at 7 p.m. during the Buda Public Library’s Summer Reading Kickoff Party at Buda City Park. The ceremony will mark the official opening of both the Onion Creek Trail and the Garlic Creek Trail. Buda Mayor Lee Urbanovsky and Commissioner Smith will deliver some brief remarks; the community is then invited to join Mayor Urbanovsky in an inaugural trail bike ride followed immediately by a Bike Rodeo with Buda Police Department officers. Attendees should meet officers and officials at the north parking lot near the start of the trail to participate. While minor finishing touches will continue in the coming weeks, the trail is open now for the public to walk, bike and jog along Onion Creek. Image: Onion Creek Trail Map ### ABOUT THE CITY OF BUDA Buda, the Outdoor Capital of Texas, is situated along the Interstate 35 corridor in Hays County. It is home to approximately 18,000 residents, has 14 parks, and a historic downtown district where residents and visitors alike can shop, dine, relax, and breathe easy here.
By Natalie Frels May 20, 2025
SAN MARCOS, Texas – The Hays County Health Department (HCHD) was notified that a Kyle resident tested positive for measles by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). The individual is considered unvaccinated because they were unable to provide documentation of receiving the measles vaccine. The individual was contagious beginning Thursday May 11, 2025, until May 19, 2025. The individual has received care, and public health officials are working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed. Individuals who were at the places at the times listed below may be at risk of developing measles due to exposure to this individual. While the individual was not considered infectious during visits to the listed locations before May 11, these locations are being included out of an abundance of caution due to the small possibility of early transmission. May 10, 2025 8:00 AM- 6:00 PM Kohls – Sephora 20185 Marketplace Ave, Kyle, TX 78640 May 10, 2025 8:00 AM- 6:00 PM H-E-B Plus 5401 Farm to Market 1626, Kyle, TX 78640 May 13, 2025 11:47 AM- 2:23 PM CommuniCare- Kyle Clinic 2810 Dacy Lane, Kyle, TX 78640 May 13, 2025 8:00 AM- 1:00 PM Texas Department of Public Safety 1400 N IH 35, San Marcos, TX 78666 May 16, 2025 12:50 PM- 5:30 PM Ascension Seton Hays 6001 Kyle Parkway, Kyle, TX 78640 In collaboration with DSHS, individuals who may have been exposed will be notified by their respective local health authority. HCHD, DSHS and other local health agencies are working closely together to investigate the potential contacts. “Our department has thoroughly prepared for the chance of a positive measles case within the county. We have learned from the many lessons identified from the measles exposure in February of this year,” Gonzales said. “We are working closely with the healthcare providers and businesses exposed to ensure the safety of their patients and customers. The health and safety of our residents is our priority. Our focus will be ensuring those who are exposed are notified and capable of taking the proper precautions for their health and to prevent the further exposure of other individuals.” HCHD will contact people who are known to have been in contact with the person who later tested positive for measles to provide guidance and conduct case investigations. Ninety percent of people who are not vaccinated or have not had a previous measles infection will become infected with the virus. If an individual has symptoms, they should contact their primary care provider, an urgent care or an emergency room to set up an appointment and quarantine for four days after the onset of a rash. People who were in the aforementioned locations during the specified times should: Review their immunization and medical records to determine if they are protected against measles infection. People who have not had measles infection or received measles immunization previously may not be protected from the measles virus and should talk with a health care provider about receiving measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) immunization. Contact and notify their health care provider as soon as possible about a potential exposure if they are pregnant, have an infant or have a weakened immune system regardless of vaccination history. Monitor themselves for illness with fever and/or an unexplained rash from four days to 21 days after their exposure (the time period when symptoms may develop). If symptoms develop, stay at home and avoid school, work and any large gatherings. Call a healthcare provider immediately. Do not enter a health care facility before calling and making them aware of your measles exposure and symptoms. The health department can assist healthcare providers in appropriately diagnosing and managing your care. Post-exposure prophylaxis: Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) refers to medical treatment given after someone has been exposed to a contagious disease, in this case measles, with the goal of preventing infection or reducing the severity of illness. PEP is most effective when administered as soon as possible after exposure and can significantly lower the risk of developing the disease. There are two primary forms of PEP for measles: the MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine and immune globulin (IG), each appropriate for different situations. MMR Vaccine as post-exposure prophylaxis: The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine can provide protection if administered within 72 hours (3 days) of the initial exposure. This option is recommended for most healthy individuals aged 6 months and older who have not been fully vaccinated or whose immunity is uncertain. Immune Globulin (IG) IG is a preparation of antibodies that provides temporary protection against measles. It can be administered after exposure to help prevent or lessen the severity of the disease, especially in people who are at higher risk of serious illness. Immune globulin (IG) may offer protection when given within 6 days of exposure. IG is typically reserved for infants, pregnant individuals without immunity or those who are immunocompromised. If you think you may have been in close contact with someone who has measles and are unsure of your immunity: Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to find out if post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is appropriate for you and which type (MMR vaccine or immune globulin) is best based on your age, health status, and vaccination history. You can also call the Hays County Health Department at (512) 393-5520 for additional guidance or assistance. If you are a resident of Travis County who was exposed, please contact Austin Public Health at (512) 972-5555. For more information visit: https://www.hayscountytx.gov/current-public-health-situations . The site will continue to be updated as more information is available. About Measles  Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for two hours, even after the infected person has left. The infected person can spread the disease up to four days before a measles rash appears and up to four days after the rash appears. If other people breathe the contaminated air or touch the infected surface, then touch their eyes, noses or mouths, they can become infected. Common symptoms for measles include: High fever (as high as 105°F) Cough Runny nose Red and watery eyes Tiny white spots that may appear inside the mouth 2-3 days after symptoms begin Rash 3-5 days after other signs of illness. The “measles rash” typically starts at the face and then spreads down to the rest of the body Measles can be prevented with a measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR or MMRV). The MMR vaccine protects against three diseases: measles, mumps and rubella. The MMRV vaccine protects against four diseases: measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (chickenpox). They are administered in two doses and are highly effective: two doses are 97% effective against measles and one dose is 93% effective. The spread of measles can be prevented if two-dose coverage of vaccine remains at 95% or above in the community. For more information on measles, visit: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vaccine-preventable-diseases/vaccine-preventable-disease-conditions/measles-rubeola . Most health insurances cover the cost of the MMR and MMRV vaccine. Insured persons should check with their doctor or local pharmacy to see what vaccines are offered. Uninsured or underinsured children and adults can access free or low-cost vaccines at clinics enrolled in the Vaccines for Children (TVFC) and Adult Safety Net program (ASN). (See attached list of TVFC providers and qualifications for the TVFC program in Hays County). Individuals who do not qualify for TVFC and who do not have insurance can visit a Federally Qualified Health Center. The FQHC for Hays County is CommuniCare. About Hays County Health Department Hays County Health Department is the local health authority for Hays County. The Health Department provides Immunization, Tuberculosis, and Sexually Transmitted Infection services and conducts public health prevention and intervention programming. For more information about the department: www.hayscountytx.gov/health-department
By Natalie Frels May 9, 2025
HAYS COUNTY – May 9, 2025 – As part of its ongoing commitment to addressing the opioid overdose crisis and supporting community harm reduction efforts, the Hays County Jail has installed a Narcan vending machine on its premises.  Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is a life-saving medication that can reverse the potentially fatal effects of opioid overdoses, including those caused by heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers. By making Narcan easily accessible, the Hays County Jail joins a growing number of correctional facilities across the country that are proactively tackling the opioid epidemic. The vending machine will be available to the public and discharged inmates, ensuring timely access to this critical intervention for themselves or their loved ones in the event of an overdose. This initiative was made possible through a partnership between the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, the Behavioral Health Program of the Hays County Health Department, and the Texas Integrated Community Opioid Network (ICON). This collaboration highlights the shared commitment to improving public health and safety across Hays County. “It’s a privilege to work with individuals who are genuinely dedicated to the health and well-being of all Hays County residents,” said Chief Deputy Brett Bailey. “This is a significant proactive step toward saving lives, and I’m extremely grateful for our partnership with the Hays County Health Department and ICON.” Lt. Monica Shaffer also expressed her appreciation: "It was a true honor to work alongside the Hays County Health Department and ICON. This career is a calling for me, and to witness the county’s progress in becoming more innovative and supportive of the community without judgment makes me proud to serve at the Sheriff’s Office.” The Behavioral Health Program of the Hays County Health Department will also provide educational materials and resources near the vending machine. These resources will ensure that individuals not only have access to naloxone but also receive vital guidance and support for addressing substance use disorders. In addition, the Health Department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Texas Health Science Center to strengthen collaboration on community infrastructure initiatives related to drug use and mental health. This formalized partnership paves the way for future efforts like this one. “I’m thrilled to see this project come together,” said Hays County Behavioral Health Coordinator Peyton Wagner. “True public safety is about protecting lives through proactive, compassionate measures. The Health Department is proud of this cross-sector collaboration that benefits the entirety of the county. As a community, we must support and protect one another.” Looking ahead, Hays County remains committed to exploring and implementing innovative solutions that promote health, safety, and recovery for all residents.
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