Notice of No Significant Impact of Proposed Activity in a Federal Floodplain or Wetland

Natalie Frels • June 4, 2025

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NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS AND FINAL NOTICE AND PUBLIC EXPLANATION OF A PROPOSED ACTIVITY IN A FEDERAL FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT STANDARD DESIGNATED FLOODPLAIN OR WETLAND


Date of publication: June 3rd, 2025

The Texas General Land Office

P.O. Box 12873

Austin, TX  78711‐2873

512-463-5001


These notices shall satisfy three separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the Texas General Land Office (GLO). The proposed activities will assist Hays County homeowners still affected by the impacts of the 2024 Texas severe storms and flooding, including Hurricane Beryl (Beryl).


REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS

On or about June 4th, 2025, the GLO will submit a request to HUD for the release of Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds appropriated under the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2025 (Pub.L. 118-158), as amended, to undertake projects under the single-family disaster recovery Homeowner Reimbursement Program (HRP) and Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) for the purpose of repairing, reconstructing, or newly constructing replacement single-family housing damaged by the 2024 Disasters within Hays County. From the HUD federal assistance, the State of Texas has allocated approximately $244,100,000 to HAP and $43,100,000 to HRP actions for distribution in the 27 affected counties, including Hays County. The number of projects funded in Hays County will be based on the number of eligible applicants and actual costs.


To facilitate environmental review of the proposed activities, the GLO is implementing a tiered environmental review approach in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 58.15. The Environmental Review Record (ERR) is tiered as an Environmental Assessment (24 CFR 58.36, subpart E) subject to laws and authorities at 24 CFR 58.5, 24 CFR 58.6, and NEPA analysis.


FINAL NOTICE AND PUBLIC EXPLANATION OF A PROPOSED ACTIVITY IN A 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN OR WETLAND

This is to give notice that the Texas General Land Office (GLO) has conducted 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.


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 GLO has considered the following alternatives and mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial functions and intrinsic values of the existing FFRMS floodplain and wetland: (i) Reasons why the action must take place in an FFRMS floodplain and/or wetland: Many existing damaged homes are located in an FFRMS floodplain. (ii) Alternatives considered: Constructing additional improvements was considered. However, the GLO determined that constructing/rehabbing fewer projects would be more economically feasible. Many low-income homeowners may not be able to purchase property that is located outside of the FFRMS floodplain or wetland, and grant funding cannot be used to purchase other land for the homeowner. Simply demolishing the home would leave the homeowner without a place to live. Taking no action would cause homeowners to remain in unsafe and unsanitary conditions, where the home would continue to deteriorate and be susceptible to future flood events. (iii) Mitigation measures: Substantially damaged, reconstructed, and newly constructed homes in the FFRMS floodplain will be elevated to or above the FFRMS floodplain elevation, and the homeowner will be required to obtain and maintain flood insurance if the parcel extends into the 100-year floodplain. Best management practices, sedimentation control, and/or erosion control will be used in construction areas near wetlands.


The GLO has reevaluated alternatives to building in the FFRMS floodplain and wetland and has determined that it has no practicable alternative. Environmental files documenting compliance with Executive Order 11988 and Executive Order 11990, are available for public inspection, review, and copying upon request at the times and location delineated in the last paragraph of this notice for receipt of comments.


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.


FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

The GLO has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment, and the GLO or its designee will conduct a site-specific environmental review of each HAP and HRP application site to verify this to be the case. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the Texas General Land Office, P.O. Box 12873, Austin, TX 78711‐2873 and may be examined weekdays 9 A.M to 5 P.M. The record is also available for review electronically upon request. To request an electronic copy, email david.camarena.glo@recovery.texas.gov.


PUBLIC COMMENTS

The proposed HAP and HRP activities will assist single-family residence homeowners still affected by the 2024 Presidentially Declared Disasters. The assistance is urgently needed to address unmet housing needs and provide safe and sanitary housing in the county. Therefore, as provided by federal regulations at 24 CFR 58.33(b), GLO is publishing the combined Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds (NOI/RROF) simultaneously with the submission of the RROF to HUD. Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on these notices or the ERR to the GLO Community Development and Revitalization Program. Comments may be submitted to Ms. David Camarena at GLO via P.O. Box 12873, Austin, Texas 78711, or by email at david.camarena.glo@recovery.texas.gov. All comments received by June 18th, 2025 will be considered by the GLO. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.


 ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION

The GLO certifies to HUD that Jet Hays, in their capacity as Deputy Director, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the GLO to use Program funds.


OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS

The activities proposed to assist homeowners still affected by the 2024 Presidentially Declared Disasters, are urgently needed to address ongoing impacts. Therefore, as provided by federal regulations at 24 CFR 58.33(b), GLO is publishing the combined FONSI and NOI/RROF simultaneously with the submission of the RROF to HUD. HUD will accept objections to release of funds immediately following the publication of this notice through a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later), concurrent with the comment period described in the section above. HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the GLO’s certification only on one of the following basis: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the GLO; (b) the GLO has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD Disaster Recovery and Special Issues Division, 451 7th Street SW, Room 7272, Washington, DC 20410 or via email to DisasterRecovery@hud.gov. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period.


Name and Title of Certifying Officer: Jet Hays, Deputy Director, Program Integration, Texas General Land Office.

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Kyle woman gets 20 years in prison for arson, healthcare fraud

By Natalie Frels • April 9, 2026
SAN MARCOS, Texas — Lawanda Moreno pleaded guilty to arson with intent to damage a habitation (first-degree felony) and was sentenced by Judge Tracie Wright-Reneau on March 17, 2026, to 20 years in prison for a structure fire that occurred in a residential neighborhood in Kyle on Nov. 4, 2024. On the same day, Moreno was also convicted of healthcare fraud - $150,000-$300,000 (20 years), healthcare fraud - $2,500-$30,000 (2 years), and unauthorized insurance business (10 years), with the sentences to be served concurrently. Although Moreno denied having an insurance policy, investigators discovered that two policies for the residence were purchased seven and five days, respectively, before the fire. Further, while the eviction process was underway, the defendant told her property manager that she was skilled at obtaining free rent and threatened to damage the property if the eviction continued. Based on differential fire damage and burn patterns, investigators from the Hays County Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the fire originated inside a cabinet located between two windows in an upstairs bedroom. They concluded that the fire was caused by the intentional introduction of an open flame to readily ignitable materials. Agencies that participated in the investigation include: Hays County ESD No. 5 Kyle Fire Department; the Kyle Police Department; the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Rangers; the Hays County Sheriff’s Office; the Buda Police Department; the Austin Police Department; the State Fire Marshal’s Office; and the Hays County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Hays County Assistant District Attorney Courtney Hansen. “The Hays County Fire Marshal’s Office extends its sincere appreciation for the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by our personnel and the assisting agencies throughout this investigation,” said Hays County Interim Fire Marshal Aaron Bauer. “The collaboration and coordination among these agencies were instrumental in the successful outcome of this investigation. We remain committed to working together to protect our community and ensure that incidents like this are thoroughly and responsibly addressed.” ###

Public Meeting Notice: Collective Bargaining

By Jose Garcia • April 7, 2026
To view the original document, Click Here

Hays County to host open house on FM 2001 improvements

By Natalie Frels • April 7, 2026
KYLE, Texas — Hays County will host an in-person open house on April 23 to share updates and gather public input on planned improvements to FM 2001. The project includes safety improvements and roadway realignment between I-35 and SH 21 to improve safety and mobility in a rapidly growing area of the county. “Hays County is committed to a transparent planning process that keeps residents informed as road projects move forward. As our region continues to grow, it's important that the community understands how planned improvements to FM 2001 will support future transportation needs,” said Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe. The FM 2001 Improvements Open House will be held from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, at Studio Estates Event Center, 6880 Goforth Road in Kyle. The open-house format allows residents to stop by at any time to review project information, learn about next steps and speak directly with the project team. “As our region grows, we are prioritizing infrastructure investments that keep pace with the needs of our residents. Improvements along FM 2001 are a key part of that effort, designed to improve mobility and make travel safer and more efficient,” said Commissioner Michelle Cohen. Meeting materials and opportunities to submit comments will also be available online at hayscoroads.com from April 23 through May 6. Project Overview The County and TxDOT have worked together to identify, design, and construct improvements along several segments of FM 2001. A portion of the project was completed in 2022, and the county is now preparing to move forward with the remaining improvements. The FM 2001 Improvements Project aims to support future transportation needs by enhancing safety and mobility within the growing region while respecting local priorities and environmental constraints. Additional details about the project can be found at hayscoroads.com. ###

DA’s Office hosts ‘Autism in Criminal Justice Settings’ training

By Natalie Frels • March 31, 2026
SAN MARCOS , Texas – The Office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced the successful hosting of a multi-agency “Autism in Criminal Justice Settings” training. The training, held on March 27, 2026, centered on increasing understanding of autism spectrum conditions throughout the criminal justice system. Attendees included representatives from the Hays County Criminal District Attorney’s Office, Hays County Sheriff’s Office, Buda Police Department, Kyle Police Department and Hays County Juvenile Probation Department. Anne Jackson, a Bell County assistant county attorney, led the training and spoke about how raising a child on the autism spectrum raised her awareness of neurodiversity issues relevant to her work as a prosecutor. Her experiences allowed her to make more informed decisions in cases where victims, witnesses and defendants on the autism spectrum were frequently misunderstood by first responders, lawyers, probation officers and the courts. “It is incumbent upon lawyers in the system, whether we be defense, prosecutors or judges, to know what to do when we hear or read the word ‘autism’ in our work. We are the gatekeepers — the people with the power to affect people’s liberty and lives,” said Jackson. Participants also heard from Jackson’s son, Tres, who talked openly about his life on the autism spectrum and coordinated directly with participants on strategies for engaging with those on the autism spectrum at various criminal justice touchpoints. Tres noted, “Autism doesn’t care about your skin color, religion or sexuality. We try to be like everyone else, but there are going to be days when we struggle. When we call for help, I want us to be seen as someone in need ... and not any of these other things.” “We are proud to be the first prosecutor’s office in the State to host this training for our criminal justice partners,” stated Landon Campbell, division chief in the Hays County Criminal District Attorney’s Office. “We hope to use this training as a springboard to increase awareness of mental health and intellectual disability issues in our local criminal justice system and beyond.” The Hays County Criminal District Attorney’s Office thanks Anne Jackson, Tres Jackson and Bell County Attorney Jim Nichols for dedicating resources to this pivotal training. # # #

Hays County Historical Commission

By Jose Garcia • March 23, 2026
Hays County Historical Commission

Hays County opens Social Service Grant application

By Natalie Frels • March 17, 2026
SAN MARCOS, Texas — Hays County announced today that its Social Service Grant application for fiscal year 2027 is now open. Applications are due by 3 p.m. CST on June 1, 2026. According to Hays County Precinct 1 Commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe, the grant program provides funds to established social service agencies that address specific needs among priority populations in the county. “The Hays County Commissioners Court administers Social Service Grants to promote community well‑being and to address gaps in services among populations in need,” said Ingalsbe. “These investments help strengthen the local network of organizations that residents rely on every day. By supporting agencies that are already making a measurable difference, we’re able to expand access to vital resources and ensure that more families, individuals, and neighborhoods receive timely support.” Previous awardees have used funds to support library services, senior services, career advancement initiatives, youth programming, mental health and substance use treatment, animal services, food assistance and more. To qualify, applicants must: • Be a nonprofit entity • Be located within Hays County, Texas • Provide services to Hays County residents • Complete the proposed project within the one‑year grant period • Clearly define a Hays County population in need and outline activities that will address that need The grant period is from Oct. 1, 2026, to Sept. 30, 2027. To better align with the County’s Strategic Initiatives, the application process has been updated to encourage systematic program approaches. Awardees will now be required to submit quarterly programmatic reports throughout the grant period. Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend either the virtual webinar or in‑person meeting from 2–3 p.m. on April 1, 2026. The in‑person session will be held at the Hays County Elections Center, 120 Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos, Texas 78666. The virtual meeting link is available at www.hayscountytx.gov/county-administrator . The meeting will provide an overview of the reporting requirements and introduce the FY2027 point of contact. Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions about the application process. “By investing in organizations already doing critical work in our communities, Hays County is helping strengthen long‑term solutions for residents who rely on these services every day,” said Precinct 2 Commissioner Dr. Michelle Cohen. “We look forward to partnering with agencies committed to creating meaningful, measurable impact.” The application, scoring rubric and application worksheet are now available on the County Administrator’s webpage: www.hayscountytx.gov/county-administrator . For more information, contact Hays County Grants Coordinator Genevieve Kitts at genevieve.kitts@hayscountytx.gov . ###

Hays County announces ribbon-cutting for Karst Canyon Preserve

By Natalie Frels • March 17, 2026
WIMBERLEY, Texas — Hays County will celebrate the official opening of Karst Canyon Preserve with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on March 27. Participants will park at Parking Lot A at Jacob’s Well Natural Area, located at 1699 Mt. Sharp Road, Wimberley, Texas 78676. From there, attendees may choose to take a short 0.8-mile round-trip hike to the ceremony site or ride with park staff by golf cart. A Project Years in the Making The opening of Karst Canyon Preserve marks the culmination of a multi-year, multi‑organizational effort rooted in conservation and community vision. Once known as Coleman’s Canyon, the 175-acre property sits close to Jacob’s Well Natural Area and was previously slated for a high‑density development of more than 1,000 residential lots. In 2019, the Watershed Association purchased the property, halting the development plans. Momentum continued in 2020 when Hays County voters approved the Parks and Open Spaces Bond, with the advisory committee — POSAC — identifying the acquisition of this land as a high priority. In 2025, Hays County finalized the purchase using bond funding, and The Nature Conservancy secured a conservation easement to ensure permanent protection. Following the acquisition, Hays County Parks Staff, in partnership with the Watershed Association and with support from Hays County Master Naturalist volunteers, began preparing the land for public access. Efforts included trail cutting and clearing, installation of maps, signage, and wayfinding markers, construction of benches, and completion of biological and karst surveys. Phase 1 of the Preserve now offers approximately 2 miles of trail, connecting directly to the North 40 Trail at Jacob’s Well Natural Area via a short easement across land owned by the Watershed Association. Phase 2 of the Preserve, which will add more than 2 additional miles of trail, is forthcoming. A completion date has not yet been set. A Landscape of Remarkable Features Karst Canyon Preserve showcases some of the region’s most important natural assets. The property contains numerous karst features, a stretch of Dry Cypress Creek, and the well‑known Wimberley Bat Cave. It also provides high‑quality habitat for the endangered golden‑cheeked warbler. A Vital Addition to the Hays County Parks System The Preserve is named for the distinctive karst landscape it protects—a landscape shaped by soluble limestone that forms sinkholes, caves, and springs. In Central Texas, these features are crucial for recharging the Trinity Aquifer, which supports iconic springs like Jacob’s Well. By protecting both the quality and quantity of water entering these recharge areas, Karst Canyon Preserve plays a key role in regional water sustainability. The land also prevents further fragmentation of sensitive habitat. It expands opportunities for Hays County residents to explore, recreate, and learn outdoors. “We are thrilled to welcome the community to explore this new trail system, made possible through funding from the 2020 Parks Bond,” said Precinct 3 Commissioner Morgan Hammer. “Preserving this remarkable landscape — rich with features essential to recharging Jacob’s Well and the aquifer — is an honor and a responsibility we’re proud to uphold.” Follow Hays County on Instagram and Facebook for updates on Karst Canyon Preserve, Jacob’s Well Natural Area, and other county projects. ###

Jury sentences man to 25 Years for shooting wife

By Natalie Frels • March 9, 2026
SAN MARCOS, Texas – The office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced that on March 5, 2026, a Hays County jury returned a verdict of 25 years in prison for 73-year-old Rodger Wilder following his conviction by that same jury of aggravated assault against a family member.  The offense occurred in December 2024 when, during a verbal argument with his wife of 44 years, Wilder became enraged and strangled her before shooting her four times with a .40 caliber handgun at close range. She was struck in the hip and abdomen by the gunshots. The evidence at trial showed that their son heard the shots and came downstairs to find Wilder standing over the victim with a gun in his hand. Wilder tried to claim that she had attempted to commit suicide. The son disarmed Wilder and locked him outside while calling 911. Officers and EMS responded and transported the victim to the hospital, where she received medical treatment and survived. During the punishment phase of the trial, the jury heard testimony about years of emotional, verbal and physical abuse by Wilder that the victim had been subjected to. Assistant District Attorneys Shea Umphrey and Ashley Indelicato prosecuted this case. ADA Umphrey stated: “The victim and her son showed extreme bravery and strength through their testimony. It is because of the son’s quick actions and determination that she is alive today. Domestic violence is unacceptable at any age. We will continue to hold offenders accountable who try to bully, intimidate, and harm others. We appreciate the care and dedication that our staff, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, and EMS took with this case to help bring the defendant to justice.” # # #

Hays County invites public to forum on Sentinel Peak Preserve, parks projects

By Natalie Frels • March 4, 2026
Wimberley, Texas — Hays County will host a public forum and educational event at 5 p.m. today, March 4, at the Wimberley Community Center to provide updates on Sentinel Peak Preserve and other parks and open space projects currently underway across the county. A panel will share the latest progress on Sentinel Peak Preserve, a 530-plus-acre property located just west of Wimberley. The preserve is slated to open to the public in 2027. “Sentinel Peak will serve as a Golden-cheeked Warbler habitat preserve and will also offer residents a unique riverfront park experience along a pristine one-mile stretch of the Blanco River,” said Hays County Parks & Natural Resources Director Karl Flocke. “We are designing this space to balance low-impact recreation with long-term environmental protection.” When completed, Sentinel Peak Preserve will feature opportunities for swimming and hiking, a nature center, a small event space, and County offices. The project is part of the broader 2020 Parks and Open Spaces Bond program, which funds park improvements and land conservation initiatives across Hays County. Potential project sites were initially recommended by partnering cities and nonprofit organizations, then evaluated and ranked by the citizen-led Parks and Open Spaces Advisory Commission. Each project has also benefited from extensive stakeholder input, including guidance from the Watershed Association, The Nature Conservancy, Hill Country Conservancy, the Great Springs Project, neighbors, and others who participated in community discussions such as the 2024 Capes Pond open house. “These projects increase access to nature-based recreation throughout the county,” Flocke said. “Visitors will see benefits like new and expanded trails, greater connectivity, and additional opportunities for swimming and fishing — an important addition since swimming at Jacob’s Well has not been possible since 2022 due to low water levels.” The director emphasized that all projects reflect the County’s long-term vision of pairing recreational access with responsible resource stewardship. “Our goal is to ensure residents can enjoy the county’s natural landscapes without detracting from the beauty and ecological value of the environment,” he said. Precinct 3 Commissioner Morgan Hammer added, “Sentinel Peak Preserve represents a major step forward in expanding access to nature while honoring our responsibility to protect Hays County’s most sensitive natural resources. Community input has shaped every stage of these projects, and we’re excited to share the progress with residents. The work being done today will ensure that families can enjoy these spaces for generations to come.” Residents can learn more about Sentinel Peak Preserve, other ongoing projects, and bond-funded initiatives by visiting the Hays County Parks Bond website at www.haysparksbond.com. ###

Hays County introduces new Deputy County Administrator

By Natalie Frels • March 4, 2026
SAN MARCOS, Texas — On Monday, March 2, Hays County welcomed its first Deputy County Administrator, Tucker Furlow, to the newly created position. The role was established to streamline processes, strengthen communication across departments, and support efficient, coordinated responses to the County’s growing range of initiatives. Born and raised in the Texas Hill Country, Furlow graduated from Wimberley High School and Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Business Administration before earning his law degrees in California. For nearly four years, he has served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Hays County Criminal District Attorney’s Office – Civil Division, bringing extensive experience in public service, operational oversight, and interdepartmental coordination. “With nearly two decades in state and local government, I’ve worked on initiatives aimed at improving efficiency, strengthening organizational processes, and ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources,” Furlow said. “My experience spans both daily operations and long-term strategic planning, which I believe is essential for sustainable growth. I approach leadership with a focus on integrity, accountability and collaboration.” Furlow said his passion for helping others drew him to county government. “I’ve always believed that local government has the most direct impact on people’s daily lives,” he said. “County government provides the opportunity to serve in a hands-on way, ensuring essential services are delivered effectively and responsibly.” As Deputy County Administrator, Furlow will lead countywide initiatives; coordinate intergovernmental and regional partnerships; assist the County Administrator in developing and implementing County goals and objectives; cultivate collaborative relationships with public and private organizations; represent Hays County before the Texas Legislature and other governmental bodies; conduct studies and investigations on administrative and technical issues; meet with citizens and business leaders; and provide high-level management and project support to the County Administrator, executive staff, and Commissioners. County Administrator Kandice Boutté noted that Furlow brings exceptional value to the new role. “Tucker brings a rare combination of strategic insight, practical experience and a genuine commitment to public service,” Boutté said. “His ability to connect big-picture goals with day-to-day operations will be an incredible asset as our County continues to grow. We’re excited to welcome him into this leadership role and are confident he will strengthen our ability to serve the people of Hays County with excellence.” ###