Kyle and Buda plan regional animal care facility as San Marcos contract winds down

February 28, 2026

City leaders in Kyle and Buda have launched a plan to create a regional animal care facility that would serve both cities and parts of Hays County. The move comes as their existing contract for animal services with San Marcos approaches its conclusion, prompting officials to seek a local solution for sheltering, adoptions, and animal control.

Officials say the regional center would concentrate resources that now are spread across multiple jurisdictions, with the goal of improving response times, animal care capacity, and customer service for residents. Local leaders are exploring governance options that would allow participating cities and the county to share decision making and operating costs.

Planners have identified key next steps, including a feasibility study, site selection, and drafting an interlocal agreement to define funding, staffing, and day to day operations. City councils and the county commissioners court will review those findings at public meetings before approving any binding agreements.

San Marcos Animal Services has provided sheltering and field services for Kyle and Buda under a contract, and officials expect that arrangement to remain in place through a transition period. Municipal leaders are coordinating with San Marcos staff to ensure animal care and public safety remain uninterrupted while the regional facility comes together.

Funding and timeline remain under discussion, with cities weighing options such as pooled municipal contributions, grant funding, and user fees to cover construction and operations. Elected officials have emphasized they will seek public input on location and costs before finalizing a plan that could change how animal control services are delivered in the area.

Residents can expect additional updates as councils and county officials review study results and draft agreements, including public hearings on proposed sites and budgets. Until a new facility opens, Kyle and Buda will continue working with San Marcos to manage sheltering, field response, and animal reunification efforts.