In a recent budget workshop held on May 22, 2025, Kerr County officials gathered to discuss pressing financial matters, particularly the impact of a recent hailstorm on county vehicles and the ongoing need for additional law enforcement personnel. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as officials navigated the complexities of budgeting for unforeseen expenses and public safety.

Sheriff's Department representatives highlighted the significant losses incurred from the hailstorm, which totaled four vehicles, including a Tahoe that had recently undergone costly repairs. The sheriff emphasized the importance of maintaining a fleet of spare vehicles, noting that the replacement costs for the totaled vehicles would add substantial monthly expenses to the department's budget. "That new Tahoe is gonna cost me $1,700 a month when it's replaced," he explained, underscoring the financial strain these unexpected losses impose on the department's operations.

To address these challenges, the sheriff requested a dedicated line item of $15,000 to cover insurance deductibles for vehicle damages. He pointed out that over the past three years, the department had dealt with numerous hail-related incidents, making it difficult to predict future costs. "I can't predict how many we're gonna hit the next year," he stated, emphasizing the need for a more stable financial plan to manage these recurring expenses.

In addition to vehicle replacements, the sheriff also advocated for increasing the number of deputies on duty. Currently, the department operates with six deputies per shift, but the sheriff aims to raise that number to eight over the next few years. He noted that the county's growing population and the need for adequate coverage, especially in rural areas, necessitate this increase. "If the taxpayers want anything, they want coverage here," he asserted, highlighting the community's demand for enhanced public safety.

The discussion also touched on the department's involvement in mental health transports, which have become a significant drain on resources. The sheriff reported spending over 600 hours on these transports last year, indicating that this time could be better spent addressing other community needs. "Even if I had seven, I might have five guys," he explained, illustrating the challenges of maintaining adequate staffing levels while fulfilling various responsibilities.

As the meeting progressed, officials reviewed budget sheets and made necessary adjustments to reflect the current financial landscape. The urgency of these discussions reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that Kerr County remains responsive to the needs of its residents, balancing fiscal responsibility with the imperative of public safety. The outcomes of this workshop will play a crucial role in shaping the county's budget for the upcoming year, as officials strive to address both immediate challenges and long-term goals.