On Tuesday, January 20, Kyle City Council gave the green light to a new regional Animal Care Facility that will serve our city, Buda, and parts of Hays County.
Right now, Kyle relies on the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter, but that service is winding down by late 2026. To make sure pets in our area still get the care they need, city leaders got to work early.
Hosting stakeholder discussions with area shelters, law enforcement entities, and other city’s in Hays County affected by the change in service, conducting an Animal Care Center Feasibility Study, and teaming up with Jackson & Ryan Architects to study what kind of shelter would best serve Kyle and our growing region.
The result? A plan for a modern, local facility that can handle today’s needs and keep up with tomorrow’s growth.
That plan sparked a neighborly collaboration with Buda and Hays County. First came agreements to work together. Now, with the formal Interlocal Agreement in place, the project is officially moving forward.
“This agreement and the planned facility represent a critical investment in animal care services for our community. As the historic growth continues in our region, the City must proactively address both current and future needs,” said Kyle Assistant City Manager Jesse Elizondo. “This new facility positions us to responsibly care for animals in our jurisdiction while enhancing public health, safety, and overall quality of life for our residents.”
Kyle will own and run the facility. Buda and Hays County will pitch in with funding for construction and operations, sharing costs based on how much they use the facility.
City Council also approved a $1.6 million contract to design the new center. Architects are now getting to work, with construction planned for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
Once built, this new animal care center will be a place where pets in Kyle and surrounding communities can find help, hope, and a safe space—thanks to a strong partnership between neighbors.
For more information, read the official City of Kyle press release here: Kyle, Hays County, and Buda Formalize Agreement for Animal Care Facility
