Hays County approved a memorandum of understanding with the city of Kyle at the Sept. 30 meeting regarding the development of a county administrative facility and a city-led animal services facility, as well as an investment in improvements to Kyle Vista Park, according to county documents.
Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra clarified that the memorandum of understanding just means that the county and city are both in agreement on the general plan. He added that it does not outline the specific details of the project, which would occur later.
The details
Agenda documents show that Hays County will lease 13.22 acres from the city for $3.75 million, with all funds reinvested into Kyle Vista Park improvements like trails, lighting, utilities and restrooms.
Hays County will design, fund and build a new administrative facility that meets all standards and integrates with the park for shared public benefit.
In addition, the county will partner with the city on a new regional animal services facility. Based on a 2025 feasibility study, unincorporated Hays County is expected to have a higher demand of animal intake and other animal services, projected population growth and intake trends, so the county will cover 64.5% of both capital and operational costs. The facility will be owned and operated by the city, and Hays County will provide input through representation on the Animal Services Advisory Board.
The design and construction costs for facilities are to-be-determined, according to the agenda.
The county has answered frequently asked community questions here.
What’s next
Hays County Commissioner Morgan Hammer said they would be addressing services on the west side of Hays County—including Wimberley, Dripping Springs and Driftwood—in the future as well and are currently assessing their options.
