Kerr County officials are facing a critical decision regarding the future of their Environmental Health and Animal Control Department, as discussions during the recent budget workshop highlighted urgent calls for salary increases for deputies. The meeting, held on May 22, 2025, revealed concerns about retention and recruitment challenges that could jeopardize essential services.

Director Givens emphasized the unique nature of their operations, stating, “We don’t have anybody we can compare to in this area.” He pointed out that the department’s responsibilities extend beyond typical animal control, encompassing environmental enforcement and public health initiatives. With only two experienced deputies currently in the department, Givens warned that without a salary increase, they risk losing valuable personnel who have extensive training and experience.

The discussion underscored the difficulty in attracting new talent, as Givens noted, “You’re going to try to get as much money as you can,” when looking for law enforcement positions. He argued that the current pay structure does not reflect the complexity and demands of their roles, which include handling animal control, environmental health issues, and serving legal documents.

Senior Deputy Constable Sean Gore echoed these sentiments, highlighting the drastic changes in job responsibilities over the years. He pointed out that the average tenure for similar positions nationally is only 12 to 18 months, yet Kerr County has managed to retain several employees for over a decade. Gore stated, “Our value in this department can’t be measured,” stressing the importance of their multifaceted roles in maintaining public safety and health.

As the budget process unfolds, the county must weigh the implications of these discussions. The potential for a salary adjustment could not only stabilize the current workforce but also enhance the department's ability to serve the community effectively. The urgency of the situation was clear, with Givens and Gore both advocating for immediate action to prevent a decline in service quality and employee retention. The outcome of these discussions will be pivotal in shaping the future of Kerr County's Environmental Health and Animal Control Department.