Hays County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hays County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Juvenile Diversion Program Staffing
Local judges and justices of the peace urged the court to fund a second juvenile diversion coordinator position, citing severe caseload backlogs and lengthy wait times for families.
Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) Housing Support Funding
Community advocates urged the county to maintain vital funding for temporary supportive housing within the AOT program, emphasizing its success in housing former inmates with mental illness and reducing recidivism.
Emergency Services District Dispatch Fees
Representatives from local Emergency Services Districts raised concerns about new fees from the Combined Emergency Communications Center (CECC) impacting their operating budgets and emergency response capabilities.
Emergency Weather Shelter and Social Services Funding
Residents advocated for funding non-profits like the Home Center and Price Center. Due to an administrative classification error, the Price Center was initially omitted from FY 2027 funding, prompting the court to reallocate funds to meet their $10,000 request.
Jail-Based Competency Restoration Program
Hays County established a new partnership to provide mental health competency restoration services directly inside the jail. This program aims to cut down massive waitlists and high daily costs for inmates waiting for state hospital beds.
Emergency Management Planning
Hays County is finally updating its disaster playbook to get ahead of the next big flood or storm. It’s a proactive move to make sure our neighborhoods aren't caught off guard when the weather turns ugly.