Hays County approves new animal shelter agreement with San Marcos for 2026 transition

Funding for a new wellness program in Hays County is set to be sourced from existing wellness and safety funds, as discussed in a recent government meeting. The county budget officer raised concerns about the lack of fiscal details in the agenda item, prompting a dialogue on potential funding options. Officials confirmed that the program would not require new funding, as there are excess funds available that can be allocated without impacting the general budget.

Commissioner Eric emphasized the importance of utilizing the wellness funds to avoid drawing from the general fund, suggesting that if the wellness funds were to run low, they could consider accessing the opioid fund, which is designated for addressing substance abuse issues. The program aims to provide necessary support without straining the county's financial resources.

In a separate agenda item, the court approved a new interlocal agreement with the City of San Marcos for animal shelter services. This agreement, which has been in development for some time, reflects the city's intention to transition to a city-only facility by October 2026. The cost-sharing model remains unchanged from previous agreements, ensuring a collaborative approach among Hays County and neighboring cities.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the current inmate population in Hays County, revealing a significant overcrowding issue. With 410 inmates currently housed, the jail's capacity is strained, leading to costly outsourcing of inmates to other facilities. The county is facing an estimated weekly cost of $133,380 for this outsourcing, highlighting ongoing challenges in managing the local jail population.

These discussions underscore Hays County's commitment to addressing community health and safety needs while navigating budgetary constraints and operational challenges.