The Hays County Fire Marshal's Office is facing significant operational challenges due to staffing shortages, which are impacting its ability to conduct essential inspections and enforce safety regulations. During a recent government meeting, Senior Fire Investigator Aaron Bauer highlighted the department's current staffing of just three full-time employees—one fire marshal and two deputy marshals—serving a rapidly growing population of approximately 300,000 across 680 square miles.

Bauer emphasized that the limited workforce is hindering the office's capacity to perform annual business inspections, enforce regulations against unpermitted developments, and implement the Firewise program aimed at mitigating wildland fire risks. The department has seen a steady increase in permits and inspections, averaging 750 permits and 367 inspections annually, but the current staffing levels are insufficient to manage this workload effectively.

The Fire Marshal's Office is proposing to add two additional positions: a plan reviewer and administrative support. This expansion would increase the department's available service hours from 5,400 to approximately 9,000, allowing for more timely inspections and better management of the existing backlog. Bauer noted that the current staffing levels are below the recommended standards set by the National Fire Protection Association, which could lead to increased fire risks and non-compliance issues within the community.

Commissioners expressed concern over the delays constituents are experiencing in the permitting process and acknowledged the need for improved efficiencies within the department. Suggestions included formalizing the use of third-party reviews for initial plan assessments to alleviate some of the burdens on the fire marshal's office.

The meeting underscored the critical need for enhanced staffing and operational support to ensure the safety and compliance of Hays County's growing infrastructure. As the county continues to expand, addressing these staffing challenges will be vital to maintaining public safety and meeting community needs effectively.