Hays County introduces new Budget Officer
Natalie Frels • December 9, 2025
SAN MARCOS, Texas — On Dec. 1, 2025, Hays County welcomed a new Budget Officer, Scot Woodland, who brings notable experience in public finance and a strong record of service within the County Auditor’s Office.
Inspired by his father’s service in the U.S. Air Force from an early age, Woodland has long valued public service and its impact on local communities. After earning two degrees and beginning his career in public accounting, Woodland sought a path that would allow him to follow in his father’s footsteps.
For the past three and a half years, Woodland has served Hays County in the Auditor’s Office, first as Accounting Manager and later as the First Assistant County Auditor. In these roles, he gained extensive knowledge of the County’s financial structure, revenue budgeting and overall budget cycle. Woodland also reviewed the work of the previous Budget Officer and built strong professional relationships across departments.
“Having already learned so much about Hays County’s finances, I can now focus fully on mastering the budget process and ensuring a smooth transition,” Woodland said. "The County’s most significant financial challenge is navigating a period of slower-than-usual growth paired with lower property value appreciation. Addressing this challenge will require strategic planning and efficiency improvements."
Woodland's connection to Hays County began earlier in his career, when he worked with the County as an independent auditor. Woodland was impressed by the County’s strong financial controls and by the people who dedicated themselves to public service. Later, as Woodland sought a position that involved less travel than public accounting, Hays County was at the top of his list.
As Budget Officer, Woodland's responsibilities will include protecting public funds through efficient operations, ensuring that expenditures remain within approved appropriations and working closely with County departments to maintain accurate and responsible budgeting practices.
Looking ahead, Woodland is eager to build new relationships across County departments, contribute to long-term planning efforts and promote financial efficiencies that support responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
Woodland's top priorities for the Budget Office include maintaining strong reserve levels during challenging economic conditions, enhancing transparency and communication through regular updates at Commissioners Court and upholding the high standards of excellence established by outgoing Budget Officer Vickie Dorsett.
“I look forward to being an integral part of the County’s future planning,” Woodland said. “My goal is to ensure that Hays County remains financially strong while continuing to meet the needs of our growing community.”
For more information, visit https://www.hayscountytx.gov/budget-office or contact 512-393-2275.
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SAN MARCOS, Texas – The office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced that 21-year-old Izaac Elmore-Carson of Austin was sentenced to 40 years in prison for delivery of fentanyl and 20 years in prison for possession with intent to deliver heroin on Dec. 2, 2025. On Sept. 22, 2025, Elmore-Carson pleaded guilty to delivery of fentanyl and possession with intent to deliver heroin with the agreement that District Judge Bruce Boyer of the 22 nd Judicial District Court would decide punishment between a range of 10 to 50 years in prison. The sentencing hearing occurred on Dec. 2, 2025. The State presented evidence that Elmore-Carson was one of the largest suppliers of fentanyl to drug dealers in Hays County. He was involved in extensive drug dealing within the county, as well as dealing firearms and illegal firearm switches. At the conclusion of the sentencing hearing, Judge Boyer stated that he had a duty to protect the community as he issued his sentence. This case was investigated by the Hays County Sheriff’s Office Special Services Unit and was prosecuted by Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Miranda Ebersole and Elizabeth Schmidt. Ebersole stated, “Fentanyl remains a problem in our community and is of high priority to this office. Local law enforcement noted the decline of fentanyl’s availability within our community after this defendant’s arrest. We will continue to support the efforts of law enforcement to stem the flow of this dangerous drug into the hands of our youth.” # # #
SAN MARCOS, Texas — The County announced today that a special Dedication Ceremony of the John Coffee “Jack” Hays Collection, a tribute to the legendary figure and namesake of the County, will be held on Thursday, Dec. 4, in the rotunda of the Government Center, 712 S. Stagecoach Trail, in San Marcos. This meaningful event will celebrate the life and legacy of Jack Hays, whose contributions continue to shape the spirit and identity of the Hays County community. Historical pieces such as a 30-inch-tall cast of John Coffee Hays, an archival pigmented print of the Matthew Brady portrait and two highly collectible badges will be on display. The collection has been generously donated by Kate Johnson, former Chair of the Hays County Historical Commission from 1993-2023. Event Details: Light Refreshments: Available beginning at 10 a.m. Ceremony: Begins promptly at 11 a.m. Location: Rotunda of the Government Center This ceremony is open to all community members and Hays County staff to honor the proud heritage and the enduring impact of Jack Hays. ###
San Marcos, Texas – Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra invites the community to the annual Hays County Courthouse Christmas Lighting Ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Hays County Historic Courthouse. The event will celebrate the holiday season with music, lights, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Evening Program: • 6:15 PM — San Marcos High School Orchestra • 6:40 PM — Santa Arrival & Courthouse Lighting Countdown • 7:00 PM — San Marcos Mariachi • 7:30 PM — Lehman High School Choir • 8:00 PM — Lehman High School Mariachi Santa Claus will be available for photos, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own cameras to capture holiday memories. “This event is a cherished tradition that brings our community together,” said Judge Ruben Becerra. “We look forward to celebrating the season with music, lights, and holiday cheer for families of all ages.” Location: Hays County Historic Courthouse, 111 E. San Antonio St., San Marcos, TX Admission: Free and open to the public # # #
SAN MARCOS, Texas – The office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced that 30-year-old Isaac Aguirre, formerly of San Marcos, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole by District Court Judge Sherri Tibbe on Nov. 25, 2025. A Hays County jury found Aguirre guilty on Sept. 30, 2025, of seven felonies, which included continuous sexual abuse of a child younger than 14 years of age, sexual assault of a child, two counts of online solicitation of a minor, two counts of injury to a child and tampering with a witness. The evidence showed that the defendant had sexually and physically abused his victim from approximately the age of 7 or 8 years old until the age of 14. The physical abuse included physically beating the child victim with a hanger and a belt, as well as punching her in the face with a closed fist. Testimony revealed that Aguirre prevented the victim’s cooperation with law enforcement by threatening her and continuing to abuse her even after she was removed from his home and placed in the foster care system. The evidence also showed that the defendant possessed child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of the victim, which he eventually destroyed in an effort to avoid prosecution. The defendant testified in the trial and denied the abuse apart from physically beating the victim with a belt. After the jury returned guilty verdicts on all counts, the case was reset for a punishment hearing in front of Judge Tibbe. During the sentencing phase of the trial, additional evidence was presented that the defendant had committed aggravated assault, causing serious bodily injury against a third party, devised a plan to murder a judge and others involved in his case and physically abused multiple romantic partners, animals and another minor child. His phone searches showed an obsession with deviant pornography, serial killers, child rapists and uncensored media of victim deaths or autopsies. The foreperson of the jury returned to the courthouse to hear the court sentence the defendant. This case was investigated jointly by Hays County Sheriff’s Office Corporal Chase Crow and Corporal Nelson Wray and San Marcos Police Department Detective Logan Murphy, Corporal John Dehkordi, Detective Chris Marroquin and Detective Luke Begwin. Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Cassidy Story and Katie Arnold prosecuted the case. The ADAs were assisted in this case by Victim Assistance Coordinator Sandra Groters, Legal Assistants Colton Jayroe, Diana Spencer and Cristina Kearbey and District Attorney’s Office Sgt. Investigators Shane Teague, Erica Saenz and Christopher Limmer. “The defendant’s intimidation tactics delayed justice for four years, preventing the victim from feeling safe enough to reveal the physical and sexual abuse she suffered behind closed doors. The Judge’s sentence ensures that she can finally have peace knowing that she — and many others — are protected from him,” Story and Arnold said. During closing arguments in the punishment hearing, the defense downplayed the seriousness of the charges by asserting that no life had been taken. When pronouncing Aguirre’s sentence, the Court directly responded to the defense's argument, characterizing Aguirre as a “soul murderer” because victims of child sexual abuse will have to endure their trauma for a lifetime. # # #
SAN MARCOS, Texas — On Jan. 22, 2026, the Hays County Homeless Coalition will conduct the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count in collaboration with Texas Homeless Network (THN), the Hays County Health Department, local agencies and volunteers throughout Hays County. The PIT Count provides a one-day snapshot of the number of individuals experiencing homelessness, both sheltered and unsheltered. This census plays a vital role in the planning of future programs and the allocation of resources for individuals experiencing homelessness in Hays County. The PIT Count is a nationwide effort mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that collects data on homelessness. Communities across the country use this annual census to understand the number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness, track trends over time and guide local policy and funding decisions. “As a community, we have a responsibility to understand the challenges our unhoused neighbors face,” said Isabella Vigil, Hays County Behavioral Health Coordinator and Co-Chair of the PIT Planning Team. “The PIT Count helps us see the full picture so we can respond with intention, empathy and the resources needed to make a real difference.” On the day of the count, volunteers will be deployed across Hays County to conduct surveys and offer support to individuals experiencing homelessness. The data collected will be submitted to THN for analysis and reporting to HUD, contributing to the national understanding of homelessness trends. "Tackling an issue like homelessness requires county-wide solutions, and this collaborative effort highlights the strength of Hays County's commitment to caring for our most vulnerable neighbors," said Nancy Heintz, HCHC Board Secretary. “Addressing homelessness requires more than just data — it needs unity, compassion and coordinated action,” said Matthew Gonzales, Hays County Health Department Director. “By working together with organizations like the Homeless Coalition, volunteers and community partners during the PIT Count, the County is not only gathering vital information — we’re building the foundation for long-term, community-driven solutions that prioritize health, dignity and stability for all.” Community members and local organizations are encouraged to get involved by volunteering, donating items, spreading awareness or supporting local shelters and service providers. Those interested in donating items from the shopping list developed by the team for the individuals surveyed may contact Isabella Vigil at isabella.vigil@hayscountytx.gov . “The PIT Count gives us the data we need to advocate for stronger resources in Hays County. When we understand the scope of homelessness in our community, we can target services more effectively and work together toward permanent solutions,” said Erika Rosa, Co-Founder of Breaking Bread Outreach Ministries and PIT Committee Co-Chair. For more information on how to get involved with the PIT Count, contact this year’s PIT committee co-chairs, Erika Rosa from Breaking Bread Outreach Ministries at breakingbreadom78666@gmail.com, or Isabella Vigil, Behavioral Health Coordinator from Hays County Health Department at isabella.vigil@hayscountytx.gov.
SAN MARCOS, Texas — The Hays County Commissioners Court appointed Karl Flocke as the new director of Parks and Natural Resources, which recently became its own independent department in accordance with the FY2026 budget. With a bachelor’s degree in Renewable Natural Resources from Texas A&M and a master’s degree in forestry from the University of Florida, a career in parks and natural resources was a “no-brainer” for Flocke. “I was fortunate enough to identify at a young age that I am happiest when I am outside, and that I am passionate about conserving the natural environment,” he said. “From there, it was a logical step to start researching careers that would allow me to accomplish this.” As a native of the County, the new director said he welcomed the opportunity to serve with enthusiasm. “I was born and raised in Hays County and was lucky to be able to explore many of our parks and preserves long before it was ever imagined that the County could have its own park system,” Flocke said. “When I heard about the position, I jumped at the opportunity to help manage and preserve the land that got me into this field to begin with.” As Hays County grows, the Parks Department has evolved rapidly to meet its demands. “We struggle to have enough parks and conservation lands needed for our current population,” he said. “With our meteoric population growth and increasing property values, it will be that much harder to meet the demands placed on Parks in the future. Everything we do now must have an eye toward the future.” One of his goals as the new director, Flocke noted, is to take the formation of the new department “as an opportunity to find what has been working well for us and what we need to improve and to bring it together into a cohesive strategy that can form the bedrock of Hays County Parks and Natural Resources moving forward.” The new director will now oversee the department’s flagship project — the opening of Sentinel Peak Preserve in the southwest part of the County — a unique opportunity for residents to enjoy the beauty of their environment. He encouraged residents to take a quintessential Texas Hill Country hike and then cool off in the Blanco River once the facility opens to the public in 2027. In the meantime, several new parks, playgrounds and sports facilities are being opened by the County and municipalities as a part of the 2020 Parks and Open Spaces Bond. “On top of this, we are continuously looking for opportunities to upgrade, improve and expand our facilities to best serve Hays County residents,” Flocke said, noting that the department values public feedback – whether that is through formal processes such as the Parks and Open Spaces Advisory Commission, which helped draft the bond priorities, or through a simple conversation. “Most importantly, residents can help make their vision a reality by volunteering to get things done,” he said. “Whether you were born in Hays County or moved here later in life, the natural environment of the region probably plays a key role in why you chose to call this place home and in your overall quality of life. Come visit us in Hays County Parks and Natural Resources and learn what we are doing to keep this a great place to live.” For more information, visit www.hayscountytx.gov/parks-and-recreation. # # #
SAN MARCOS , Texas – The office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced that yesterday, Nov. 20, 26-year-old Royce Robison was sentenced by a Hays County jury to 15 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for intoxication manslaughter and 10 years for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. These sentences will run concurrently. This came one day after the same jury found Robison guilty of both felony counts. The evidence in the trial showed that, on December 2, 2022, Robison was driving while intoxicated and “T-boned” a vehicle as it was turning into the entrance of a residence. Robison was driving east on Clovis Barker Road at approximately 63 miles per hour in a 45-miles-per-hour zone and ran a stop sign at the intersection of Clovis Barker and FM-123. Robison struck the driver's side door of the victim’s vehicle, causing the death of the driver, 58-year-old Crisanta Cazares. Her son, Francisco Cazares, and her 8-month-old granddaughter were also in the vehicle. Cazares’ granddaughter suffered from a skull fracture and liver contusion, leading to the aggravated assault charge. On scene, Robison admitted to being the driver of his truck and being responsible for the collision. At trial, he took the stand and attempted to blame an innocent passenger who was asleep at the time of the accident. Evidence in the trial, including video surveillance that showed Robison exiting the driver's side directly after the collision, proved that Robison’s version of events was untrue. Robison showed no remorse for his actions throughout the two-week trial and expressed no apology to the packed courtroom filled with Cazares’ loved ones. Following the conviction, the state presented evidence in the punishment case that Robison had been arrested a year before the incident for public intoxication, as well as testimony from Cazares’ family members about the impact Robison’s actions have had on their lives as they grieve their significant loss. She will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her charity to many in this community and her role as a mother, sister and grandmother of seven. This case was investigated by the San Marcos Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Cassidy Story and Jessica Rabena, assisted by Sandra Groters, Avery Slocum, Cristina Kearbey and Sergeant Investigator Robert Torres. “We want to thank the jury for honoring Crisanta’s life with their sentence,” Story said. “We also want to express our gratitude to the family for their patient and unwavering faith in the justice system as they waited for long overdue closure. As they mourn the third anniversary of their loved one this holiday season, we hope that this sentence serves as a reminder to the community of the unjustifiable risk of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated." # # #
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO ISSUE HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS COMBINATION TAX AND REVENUE CERTIFICATES OF OBLIGATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at a regular meeting of the Commissioners Court of Hays County, Texas (the “Commissioners Court”), to be held at its regular meeting place in the Hays County Courthouse, Room 301, 111 E. San Antonio Street, San Marcos, Texas, the Commissioners Court intends to pass one or more orders authorizing the issuance of not to exceed $100,000,000 total principal amount of certificates of obligation, in one or more series (collectively, the “Certificates”), bearing interest at any rate or rates not to exceed the maximum interest rate authorized by law, as shall be determined within the discretion of the Commissioners Court at the time of issuance of the Certificates, and maturing over a period of not to exceed thirty (30)years from their date of issuance, for the purpose of paying contractual obligations to be incurred for all or any portion of the costs associated with (i) constructing, equipping, improving, extending,expanding, upgrading and/or developing a County administration building to be known as the East side Campus, including any necessary acquisition of land or interest in land in connection therewith,related drainage and utility costs, and other costs related thereto; (ii) acquiring, constructing,equipping, improving, renovating, extending, expanding, upgrading and/or developing animal shelter facilities, including any necessary land acquisition, related drainage and utility costs and other costs related thereto; (iii) remodeling, constructing, equipping, improving, renovating, extending,expanding, upgrading the existing Hays County Government Center; (iv) acquiring, constructing,equipping, improving, renovating, extending, expanding, upgrading and/or developing a Precinct 4office building, including any necessary land acquisition in connection therewith, related drainage and utility costs, and other costs related thereto; (v) acquiring, constructing, equipping, improving,renovating, extending, expanding, upgrading and/or developing a Precinct 5 office building, including any necessary land acquisition in connection therewith, related drainage and utility costs, and other costs related thereto; and (vi) professional services of attorneys, financial advisors, engineers and other professionals in connection with the foregoing purposes and the issuance of the Certificates.Said Certificates shall be payable from the levy of a direct and continuing ad valorem tax, levied within the limits prescribed by law, against all taxable property within the County sufficient to pay the interest on said Certificates as due and to provide for the payment of the principal thereof as the same matures, as authorized by Sub chapter C, Chapter 271, Texas Local Government Code, as amended, and from certain of the net revenues of the County's Solid Waste Management System. The estimated combined principal and interest required to pay the Certificates on time and in full is $184,959,875.00. Such estimate is provided for illustrative purposes only and is based on an assumed interest rate of 5.25%. Market conditions affecting interest rates vary based on numerous factors beyond the control of the County, and the County cannot provide any assurance regarding the rate of interest that the Certificates will bear upon their issuance. As of the date of this notice, the aggregate principal amount of outstanding debt obligations of the County secured by and payable from ad valorem taxes is $635,108,993.00. Based on the County's expectations, as of the date of this notice, the combined principal and interest required to pay all of the outstanding debt obligations of the County secured by and payable from ad valorem taxes on time and in full is $923,048,745.64. COMMISSIONERS COURT HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS November 18, 2025
SAN MARCOS , Texas – The office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced that on November 7, 44-year-old Richard Santa Ana was sentenced to a total of 218 years in prison by Hays County District Court Judge Joe Pool after being found guilty of two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child and one count of indecency with a child by sexual contact. The sentence followed a bench trial that proved that Santa Ana had repeatedly drugged and sexually assaulted the teenage daughter of a friend. Evidence during the punishment phase included testimony from a previous victim that the defendant had sexually assaulted in 2007. Despite the verdict, the defendant remained unremorseful. Judge Pool stated, "This gives notice to others in the community that we're not going to accept this type of behavior." Judge Pool announced he was ordering the sentences to run consecutively, or “stacked,” requiring the first sentence to be served before the second sentence can begin, and the second to be served before the third starts. Santa Ana must also register as a sex offender for the rest of his life, and a lifetime protective order on behalf of the victim was put into place against him. “This defendant had already shown he won’t be rehabilitated,” said lead prosecutor, Assistant District Attorney Abigail Whitaker, “We asked the Court to make sure he wouldn’t be able to reoffend again. Both of the girls who came forward and told their stories in this trial were extremely brave, and we are grateful we were able to get justice for them.” The case was investigated by Kyle Police Department Detective Jerritt Bean. It included scientific analysis by the Texas Department of Public Safety, the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification and NMS Labs. The State’s trial team that appeared on behalf of Hays County District Attorney Kelly Higgins in this matter included prosecutors Whitaker and Phillip Guebert, Victim’s Assistance Coordinator Annalise Brewer-Hall, Investigator Sergeant Rheanne Garcia, Legal Assistant Avery Slocum and Digital Media Evidence and Discovery Coordinator Mercedes Pena. # # #
Hays County approves resolution to issue COs for administrative buildings, animal shelter facilities
SAN MARCOS, Texas — On Tuesday, Nov. 18, the Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the publication and posting of a notice of intent to issue Hays County, Texas, Combination Tax and Revenue Certificates of Obligation (COs) not to exceed $100 million for County office and administrative buildings and animal shelter facilities. The item was co-sponsored by Precinct 1 Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe and Precinct 2 Commissioner Dr. Michelle Cohen. “These projects represent an important step in making sure Hays County keeps pace with the needs of the people who live here. As our county grows, so does the demand on our facilities, and it’s important that our spaces reflect the level of service our community expects. Investing in these improvements now allows us to support our staff, strengthen our operations and create welcoming, functional environments for residents,” said Cohen. “Whether it’s updated precinct offices, improved administrative buildings or better-equipped animal shelters, each project is about giving our community the infrastructure it deserves. These upgrades will help us work more efficiently and meet families where they are today and in the years ahead. I’m proud to co-sponsor this item alongside Commissioner Ingalsbe, because it moves us toward a more responsive, accessible and prepared county government — one that truly serves our people well.” These projects include the following: • Eastside Campus: Constructing, equipping, improving, extending, upgrading and/or developing a County administration building to be known as the Eastside Campus, including any necessary acquisition of land or interest in land in connection therewith, related drainage and utility costs, and other costs related. • Animal Shelter Facilities: Acquiring, constructing, equipping, improving, renovating, extending, expanding, upgrading and/or developing animal shelter facilities, including any necessary land acquisition, related drainage and utility costs and other costs related thereto. • Hays County Government Center Remodel: Remodeling, constructing, equipping, improving, renovating, extending, expanding and upgrading the existing Hays County Government Center. • Precinct 4 Office Building: Acquiring, constructing, equipping, improving, renovating, extending, expanding, upgrading and/or developing a Precinct 4 office building, including any necessary land acquisition in connection therewith, related drainage and utility costs and other costs related thereto. • Precinct 5 Office Building: Acquiring, constructing, equipping, improving, renovating, extending, expanding, upgrading and/or developing a Precinct 5 office building, including any necessary land acquisition in connection therewith, related drainage and utility costs and other costs related thereto. “Investing in Hays County’s core infrastructure is essential to keeping our county working efficiently and responsibly as our population continues to grow. These projects — whether it’s the Eastside Campus, improvements to our government facilities, or long-needed upgrades to our animal shelter — are about ensuring that our residents can access services in spaces that are safe, modern and equipped to meet today’s demands,” said Ingalsbe. “By moving forward with these renovations and new facilities, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also creating long-term investments in our community. Updated infrastructure helps us deliver better services, reduces operational inefficiencies and ultimately saves taxpayer dollars over time. Most importantly, it provides residents with the level of accessibility, care and responsiveness they deserve from our county government. I’m proud to co-sponsor this item and support the work that will strengthen our ability to serve the people of Hays County well into the future.” The County estimates that a tax rate levy of $0.0102 per $100 assessed value will be necessary to pay the debt service on the COs. The approval of the resolution is the first step to proceed with the projects. The County will then issue notices to the public, begin the bond rating process and approve a delegation order to sell the COs at the scheduled Jan. 20 meeting of the Commissioners Court. The County will receive the funds in early February. ###
