First positive measles case confirmed in Hays County

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 

Public Notice: Hays County Historical Commission

By Jose Garcia • September 22, 2025
To view the original notice, click here FILED HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS at 8:15 o'clock AM.

Cameron Moore sentenced to life for domestic violence

By Natalie Frels • September 19, 2025
SAN MARCOS , Texas – The Office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced today that 44-year-old Cameron Moore, formerly of Bexar County, Texas, was convicted of burglary of a habitation with felonious intent, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, tampering with a witness and endangering a child by Hays County District Court Judge Sherri Tibbe on September 19, 2025. Judge Tibbe assessed a sentence of life in prison.  In May of 2019, Moore was prosecuted for violence against the same victim for offenses of aggravated kidnapping, attempted capital murder, stalking, and violation of a protective order. Evidence was presented to a Hays County jury in the 2019 trial that showed that Moore had installed a GPS device on the victim’s vehicle and followed her to the police station, where he proceeded to strangle her in the parking lot. He had a zip tie and a pocketknife on his person. Moore had also stalked the victim multiple times and continuously abused her throughout the course of their eight-year relationship. The jury in that trial returned a verdict convicting Moore of lesser-included offenses and assessed a 10-year sentence. While incarcerated following the 2019 conviction, Moore made ongoing threats of violence against another victim. The state had concerns that Moore would continue to pose a threat to the community generally and to the victims specifically. He was prosecuted for the additional offenses to ensure the protection of the community. Assistant District Attorneys Katie Arnold and Courtney Hanson prosecuted this case. “We’d like to thank the survivor in this case. Without her ongoing determination and bravery, we would not be able to ensure that such a violent criminal was behind bars. It’s been a long journey for her, and we’re pleased that she will be safe from him, as well as any other women that cross his path,” said Arnold. # # #

County adopts FY26 budget, tax rate

By Natalie Frels • September 19, 2025
SAN MARCOS, Texas – Following a final public hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 16, the Hays County Commissioners Court voted, 4-1, to adopt a tax rate of $.3999 per $100 valuation and a balanced budget for fiscal year 2026. In the FY26 budget, funds were approved at a total of $373,849,226, comprising operating funds of $248,226,263, debt funds of $55,300,195, and construction funds of $70,322,768. The FY26 budget focuses on key initiatives to address capital infrastructure needs, including road improvements and county facilities, as well as funding to continue essential judicial services. Additionally, it allocates funds to partner with local municipalities and non-profits for enhanced animal welfare services. The budget is expected to raise more revenue from property taxes than last year’s budget by $16.9 million, representing an 11.27% increase. The property tax revenue to be raised from new property added to the tax roll this year is $6.9 million. According to Vickie Dorsett, Hays County Budget Officer, the average home value is $460,169, representing an annual property tax increase of $225.87 for the Hays County tax portion only. “Property taxes are the primary source of revenue for counties in Texas, and our Commissioners Court is dedicated to maintaining a low tax rate while balancing the growing infrastructure needs and providing superior services to the citizens of Hays County,” Dorsett said. One of the key indicators of the tax rate is population, she said. Since 2010, the population in Hays County has grown by 93% while the tax rate has consistently decreased during that period. Since 2000, the population has increased by 210%. These are the drivers for the need for additional services. “While the tax rate has gone down consistently over the years, the recent [tax rate] increases, are directly attributed to the addition of services the County is now providing – additional Judicial Services related to pre-trial services, additional magistration, the Public Defender’s Office, animal welfare services and more – which alone account for a $.0125 increase on the tax rate,” Dorsett said. “The judicial aspect of this is essential in reducing recidivism in Hays County. These are programs for which we haven’t had to tax citizens in the past due to available American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.” “This budget reflects both the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly growing county,” said Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra. “We are delivering essential services — from judicial and public safety programs to public infrastructure and mental health support — while keeping the tax rate among the lowest in the region. Our responsibility is to balance fiscal accountability with the needs of our community, and I believe this budget strikes that balance for the people of Hays County.” Following the budget hearing, the court also voted unanimously, 5-0, to approve the FY26 salaries and allowances for elected officials. For more information or to view budget documents, visit www.hayscountytx.gov/budget-office.

Hays County 8th Annual Preparedness Fair strengthens safety, community connections

By Natalie Frels • September 16, 2025
KYLE, Texas – The Hays County Office of Emergency Services (OES), in partnership with the City of Kyle, hosted the 8th Annual Emergency Preparedness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, at La Verde Park. Hundreds of residents joined local first responders, volunteers, and community partners. “The 8th Annual Preparedness Fair was a tremendous success thanks to the incredible engagement from our community and our dedicated partners,” said Hays County OES Director Mike Jones. “Together, we were able to educate and empower residents with the knowledge and resources they need to be prepared for any disaster.” The fair featured hands-on safety demonstrations, preparedness resources, interactive exhibits and live music entertainment. Guests explored emergency vehicles, participated in CPR and fire extinguisher training and learned how to create personalized emergency go-kits. A highlight of the day was the 3rd Annual Top Dawg Chili Cook-Off. Phillip Gilreath from Arkansas was the First Place Winner, Kent Cawley was second place (by 1 point), and Emergency Service District (ESD) 3 South Hays Fire was third place. They retained the Top Dawg traveling trophy between Hays County ESDs and also won the People’s Choice Award. Proceeds from the cook-off benefit the firefighters of Hays County, helping fund firefighter training and replace equipment lost during wildfire responses. The event was powered by community support, with 67 CERT members volunteering and 17 non-CERT volunteer partners participating, totaling 668.7 volunteer hours. Families enjoyed live performances by Two Tons of Steel and the Cody Sparks Band, participated in raffles and a silent auction, and engaged directly with local emergency personnel. The fair blended entertainment with education, ensuring attendees left better prepared for emergencies of all kinds. “Building resilience starts with awareness, and this event showed the strength of our community when we come together,” Jones added. For more information on preparedness resources and upcoming events, visit https://www.haysinformed.com .

Hays County community supports inaugural Suicide Awareness Walk & Resource Fair

By Natalie Frels • September 15, 2025
SAN MARCOS, Texas – The Hays County community came together on Saturday, Sept. 6, for the Health Department’s inaugural Suicide Awareness Walk & Resource Fair: Together for Tomorrow. Approximately 88 participants joined to walk, connect and stand together for suicide prevention and mental health awareness. The event began with heartfelt opening words from Hays County Health Department Behavioral Health Coordinator Izzy Vigil, who reminded the community of the reason for their gathering and helped set the tone for a day of connection, healing, and hope. Following Vigil, David James of the Peyton Heart Project shared the story of his son Peyton and the mission to end the stigma surrounding suicide and bullying. His testimony deepened the meaning of the day and grounded participants in the importance of this work. Despite the rain, spirits remained high. The community embraced the weather and set off together on the 1-mile walk through San Marcos Plaza Park, guided by balloons in shades of teal and purple, the symbolic colors of suicide awareness. Along the way, community members forged new connections, shared stories and reminded one another of the importance of showing up and standing together. To keep energy levels up, participants were also provided with granola bars, cold water and goodie bags, generously donated by community partners, adding another touch of care and support to the day. The resource fair was a highlight of the event, as vendors and supporters provided attendees with valuable resources on mental health and suicide prevention, while also fostering meaningful connections. Their presence brought a strong sense of togetherness to the day. The Health Department is grateful to the following partners for sharing their time, knowledge, and care with the community: Hill Country MHDD Centers Greater San Marcos Youth Council Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center (HCWC) Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas Austin Oaks Branches in San Marcos Prevention and Research in Suicide Mechanisms (PRISM) Lab DJ X-Ray (Gabriel Vasquez) “The inaugural event was a true success,” said Health Department Director Matthew Gonzales. “It brought nearly 90 people together in solidarity, opened conversations about mental health and connected individuals with the resources they need. The turnout demonstrated the strength of our community and its commitment to fostering awareness, breaking down stigma and supporting one another. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered, or partnered with us to make this event possible. Together for tomorrow is more than a theme. It is a commitment we share as a community to keep showing up, raising awareness and supporting healing and hope.” ###

Public Notice: HCSO Civil Service Commission

By Jose Garcia • September 10, 2025
To view the original notice, Click here

Hays County invites community to provide feedback on Development Regulation revision

By Natalie Frels • August 29, 2025
HAYS COUNTY, Texas – Hays County has launched a comprehensive revision of its Development Regulations and is seeking public input to inform future development policies and practices. To kick off the project’s community engagement phase, several open-house meetings will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, in locations across the county. These sessions will allow residents to hear directly from Hays County staff and consultants from Freese and Nichols, Inc., who have been tasked with reviewing, analyzing and recommending updates to the County’s existing development regulations. The upcoming revision will be the first comprehensive update to Hays County’s Development Regulations since they were initially created in 2010. The new regulations will impact a wide range of development-related issues, with an emphasis on water availability, water quality, and erosion control, as well as floodplain management, environmental protection, and transportation infrastructure. “This is a vital process in revision,” said Marcus Pacheco, Development Services Director. “We want the community involved not just during this initial stage, but throughout the project. This is a long-anticipated update over 15 years in the making, and hearing from our residents is essential in creating meaningful, effective policies that reflect the needs and priorities of our growing county.”  Community Open House Meeting Schedule – Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025 · Dripping Springs Ranch Park 2 - 3:30 p.m. 1042 Event Center Drive, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 · Wimberley Community Center 2 - 3:30 p.m. 14068 Ranch Road 12, Wimberley, TX 78676 · City of Buda Multipurpose Room 7 - 8:30 p.m. 405 E. Loop Street, Bldg. 100, Buda, TX 78610 · San Marcos Library, Meeting Room A (104) 7 - 8:30 p.m. 625 E. Hopkins Street, San Marcos, TX 78666 Community members will hear an overview of the project’s goals, initial findings and the project’s expected timeline. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback, share concerns and suggest ideas to help guide the revision. For questions or to provide feedback about future meetings and progress updates, please contact the Hays County Development Services Department at 512-393-2150 or visit https://www.hayscountytx.gov/Development-Regulations-Re-Write.

Public Notice - Salary Grievance

By Jose Garcia • August 27, 2025
To view the original notice, click here . Hays County Salary Grievance Hearing – September 3, 2025 NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING OF THE SALARY GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE OF HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS This Notice is posted by the Hays County Judge pursuant to the Texas Open Meetings Act. (VERNONS TEXAS CODES ANN. GOV. CODE CH.551) and Chapter 152 of the Texas Local Government Code. The Hays County Salary Grievance Committee will hold a Public Hearing at 1:30 P.M. on the 3 rd day of September, 2025 , in the Hays County Courthouse, Room 301, San Marcos, Texas. A Public Hearing will be held concerning the following subjects: CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL 1. Presentation from counsel regarding Salary Grievance Committee procedures. 2. Hearing(s) regarding Grievances filed by elected officials in response the FY2026 budget. 3. Deliberation of Committee regarding Grievances filed. 4. Vote of Committee for each Grievance by paper ballot (or by other means, as determined by Committee). ADJOURNMENT Posted by or before three business days before the meeting SALARY GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE, HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS ______________________________________________ COUNTY CLERK 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 Hays County Judge’s Office at (512) 393-2205 as soon as the meeting is posted (Three (3) business days 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.

Hays County to host public meetings for the Road Improvements Program

By Natalie Frels • August 25, 2025
HAYS COUNTY, Texas – Hays County will host a series of public meetings to share updates about its Roads Improvements Program, including funding strategies and an overview of proposed projects. These public meetings are a part of the County’s continued effort to be transparent and collaborate with community members. https://www.hayscoroads.com/ Public Meeting Details Wednesday, September 10, 2025 Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe, Precinct 1 Location: Price Center, Garden Room 222 W San Antonio St., San Marcos, TX 78666 ​ Time: 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Commissioner Walt Smith, Precinct 4 Location: Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center 1042 Event Center Dr., Dripping Springs, TX 78620 ​ Time: 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 18, 2025 Commissioner Morgan Hammer, Precinct 3 Location: Wimberley Community Center 14068 Ranch Rd 12, Wimberley, TX 78676 ​ Time: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.  The open-house style meeting will allow attendees to speak with County Commissioners and the transportation team, learn about proposed projects, ask questions, and provide feedback. Public meeting materials and project information will be available online at HaysCoRoads.com starting at 5 p.m. on Aug. 27. Program Background In November 2024, Hays County voters approved the 2024 Road Bond package. In June 2025, a Travis County district judge ruled that the road bond package was void, claiming non-compliance with a public notice requirement. The County is currently appealing this ruling while working to keep these projects moving forward. To uphold the voters’ decision to move these projects forward, the Commissioners Court unanimously voted in a July Commissioners Court meeting to move forward with the issuance of Certificates of Obligation (CO). The COs would fund planning and design for all projects included initially in the bond, except the SH 45 Extension project, which is not funded. Additionally, it would allow construction for eight of the 14 projects included initially in the bond.

Public Notices Related to Fiscal Year 2026 Budget

By Jose Garcia • August 23, 2025
Below you will find a drop down menu containing Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Notices for the public.