Kendall Community Relocation Guide Winter 2022-23

Nestled against a lush, scenic backdrop of the Texas Hill Country, Bo erne (the seat of Kendall County) is a Germanheritage town that has re tained much of its Old-World charm, despite its proximity to San Antonio which is just 30 minutes away. Boerne’s rich and sto ried past and its resident’s commitment to keeping the heritage alive for future genera tions have made it not only a popular place to visit, but a wonderful com munity to live and raise a family, re tire, or open a business.

HISTORY

The area—originally called Tuscu lum-- was first settled in 1849 by a group of German immigrants who brought their language, customs, and music with them. Though that initial settlement attempt was short-lived, the area would be successfully set tled three years later by Gustav The issen and John James who surveyed and laid out the town’s site and re named it Boerne. The name was a nod to Karl Ludwig Börne, the nom de plume of a German journalist and political activist who inspired many young Germans to leave their home land and travel to the new world. Today, the customs and music can still be found in the music and Ger manheritage events that take place. A beloved, historic gem can be found

right inside the front entrance of the Patrick Heath Public Library. Boerne is home to a rare, illustrated 1614 Low German Bible, one of only 6 known in the world in Martin Luther’s High Ger man translation. The big mystery is how the centuries-old Bible made its way to Boerne. Displayed and preserved under glass, it can be viewed during regular library hours.

ARCHITECTURE

Boerne’s European beginnings are ev ident in the old stone buildings with narrow windows, steep gables, outside stairways and gardens. Today, many of the historic structures still remain along the Hill Country Mile (Main St.). Others have been lovingly restored to their architectural pasts with beloved heritage buildings now taking on new lives as art galleries, bou tiques, breweries, bistros, bakeries, and specialty stores.

SHOPPING

The Hill Country Mile and River Road dis tricts are lined with an abundant array of independent shops whose offerings include antiques, home décor and furnishings, clothing and accessories, jewelry, gourmet

Welcome to Boerne

treats, Christmas ornaments, gifts, books, sou venirs, and more. Most of the stores sit along Haupstrasse (Main Street) or along River Road across from Cibolo Creek. Throughout the year, there are several popular shopping events including the popular Diva Nights, Chocolate Walk, and Stocking Stroll.

ARTS AND CULTURE

A thriving local arts and cultural scene in cludes several art galleries, the Boerne Com munity Theatre, and Boerne Performing Arts, a non-profit that brings a season of world-class performances to town each year. The City of Bo erne’s “Art al Fresco” program is responsible for the public art installations that dot the trail system and other locations along the Hill Country Mile.

DINING

There are many local talented chefs who contrib ute to the eclectic array of dining options, with choices that range from casual fare to fine, up scale dining.

OUTDOOR AND NATURE

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are multiple hike and bike trails, both in Boerne and throughout Kendall County. There are also numerous city and county parks, recreational facilities, Boerne City Lake, nearby state parks, and the popular Cibolo Center for Conservation and Herff Farm – a wil derness preserve and farm that features 100 acres of trails to explore.

For those who want to explore down under, there are also two show caves in Boerne – Cascade Caverns and Cave Without a Name.

Relocating to Kendall County

Advice from an Expert

With San Antonio ranking as one of the top 10 largest cities in the U.S. and still growing, there are many near by communities that help support its growth. One of the most popular is Kendall County, where there is cur rently an influx of families looking to relocate to the area.

While a strong job market and a sur plus of people to serve is enticing to individuals and families, relocating is not always as simple as a “quick move”—but fortunately, there are many fantastic local resources, includ ing relocation experts, to help trans ferees make their move as smooth as possible.

One leading relocation expert in the area is Phyllis Browning Company’s Relocation Director, Robin Morris, who provided the following insight regarding her experience in relocating professionals to the area:

Q&A

Transferees are often concerned with the disruption a move will have on their families. What do you do to help set them at ease?

I start by asking about the move, who will be relocating (children, spouse, etc.) and what is the most important part of their move (schools, area, price point, etc.). It is imperative to listen to what the transferees are saying during the initial conversation. If children are involved in the move, there may be an extra-curricular activity or specif ic need that will have to be filled. I have personally moved 13 times with my family and with that many reloca tions, I have become a personal expert as well as a professional one when it comes to making sure my children are excited about the move, as well.

How can a transferee decide on their preferred area without knowing the city or surrounding area?

I try to give transferees a vocal tour of the area where their new office is located. We discuss traffic patterns, school districts, and any other ques tions regarding their move. I suggest a tour to help them get a feel for the area where they will be working. If time does not permit, I suggest that the assigned agent spends time going over a map before they leave the office so

the transferee will have an idea about the infrastructure and layout of the area where they are moving.

How does a transferee find out what is covered by their employer regard ing relocation services?

They need to discuss with their em ployer/counselor what will be covered so they understand what is expected on both ends because surprises are never good. Every transferee’s move is different; therefore, they need to discuss and understand their package before they start the process.

How should one begin the process of looking for a new home if they are unsure of the cost-of-living difference and they do not know what they can afford?

Before you start looking at homes, it is best to speak with a mortgage lend er to help you better understand what you can afford at your new location. There are also internet tools such as CNN’s and Best Places’ cost-of-living calculators. These sites will give you basic financial information after com paring your current location and your new location. Another resource is your moving counselor or new human resource department. I also advise to seek out employees that may have moved in a similar situation, as they can share their experiences.

For more information about Relocation Services, contact Robin Morris, Director of Relocation Services; Phyllis Browning Company; 830-331-8450.

Shopping for a new home is exciting, but can also cause some anxiety. Doing your homework in advance can better prepare you for mak ing this major decision and take some of that anxiety away.

IDENTIFY YOUR PREFERENCES FIRST

Pay close attention to details so you find the home that will suit your preferences. Sit down with the members of your household to discuss your preferences and avail able options.

FINANCING YOUR HOME

The first step in the home-buying process is determining how much you can afford. To ensure that the financing process goes smoothly, buyers should consider pre-qual ifying for a mortgage and having a financing commitment in place before shopping for a new home.

PRIORITIZING MOST WANTED FEATURES

An easy way to organize your thoughts is to write each separate feature that you want on an index card and arrange the cards in order of importance. If you like to cook, you may want a home with a large, well-equipped kitchen. Or you may settle for a small kitchen so that you can have extra space for a library, office or playroom. Some home buyers seek large open interior spaces while others prefer traditional rooms that afford more privacy. If you plan to add rooms

find out if there is enough space on your site for expansion and whether additions are permitted.

SELECTING THE TYPE OF HOME

With a single-family home in a development, you’ll be responsible for your own yard and home, but maybe restricted to certain design el ements and other regulations if there is a home owners association.

Custom homes are one-of-a-kind creations that can come with luxury upgrades and unique ar chitectural design. In addition to flexibility in a home design and architecture, buyers typically choose their ideal location and environment.

Another option is a home in a multi-unit com plex, such as a townhouse cluster. If you own the home, you and your neighbors likely own the common elements such as the land around the complex, the parking areas, building ex teriors, hallways, utility pipes and recreation al facilities. An owners association is usually responsible for maintaining the jointly owned elements. The day-to-day business of the com plex is often handled by a management com pany.

STARTING YOUR HOUSE HUNT

Now that you know the type of home and fea tures you are looking for and how much home you can afford, you’re ready to begin searching for your perfect home. Whether you use a Re altor to find an existing home or work with a builder to build a new home, you’ll be more focused with your search.

Finding Your Home

BOERNE

Balcones Creek 10010 Paloma Oak balconescreek tx.com

Boerne Heights 25 Scenic Loop Road

Cordillera Ranch 28 Cordille ra Trace cordiller aranch.com

Durango Reserve Shooting Club Road at Com merce Avenue duran goreserve.com

Esperanza 601 Esperanza Blvd. myesperanza.com

Estancia at Thunder Valley 1 Estancia Lane estanciaboerne.com

Fallbrook 8223 Peony Landing off Old Fredericksburg Rd. Lily Ranch 22 Old Fredericksburg Rd. (210) 549-2565

Mirabel

Miralomas 440 TX-HWY 46 miralomas.com

Regent Park 32049 IH-10 Frontage Road

Ridge Creek 27006 Dana Creek Dr. rialtotexas.com/tx/san-antonio/ridge-creek

River Rock Ranch 25551 River Ranch perryhomes.com/texas/new-homes/ san-antonio/river-rock-ranch

Sable Chase 25971-26179 Old Fredericksburg Rd. sablechase.com

Shoreline Park 114 E. Granite Shores Dr. (888) 524-6637 kbhome.com/new-homes-san-antonio/ shoreline park-sterling collection

Southglen

Cascade Caverns Road at Ranch Dr. ashtonwoods.com/ san-antonio/southglen

Tapatio Springs Neighborhoods 409 Tapatio Dr. W.

The Highlands at Tapatio Springs Preston Trail at Wild Turkey Blvd. tapatiohighlands.com

The Ranches at Creekside River Road at Copper Creek

Trails at Herff Ranch River Road at Herff Ranch Blvd.

The Hills at Cielo Ranch 27602 Sonora View centex.com/homes/tex as/san-antonio/boerne/ the-hills-at-cielo-ranch

The Reserve at Old Fredericksburg Road 26204 Old Freder icksburg Rd.

The Woods of Boerne Woods of Boerne Blvd. at River Road

FAIR OAKS RANCH

Elkhorn Ridge 29519 Elkhorn Ridge at Dietz Elkhorn Rd.

Front Gate Front Gate at Fair Oaks Ranch Parkway

River Valley 7948 Valley Pointe perryhomes/new-homessan-antonio/river-valley at fair-oaks-ranch/173/

The Arbors Arbor Falls at Ralph Fair Road arborsfairoaks.com

The Fountains 29085 Ralph Fair Rd. davidweeklyhomes.com

Stone Creek Ranch Ammann Road at Roll ing Acres Trail stonecreekfairoaks.com

BEXAR COUNTY

Cantera Hills 9602 Midsomer Pl. canterahills.com

Cresta Bella IH-10 at Camp Bullis Rd. crestabella.com

Scenic Oaks 27000 Hazy Hollow scenicoaks.org

The Canyons at Scenic Loop 23906 Carina Canyon thecanyonstx.com

Two Creeks Two Creeks at IH-10

Understanding home loan options

Not all home loans are the same so understand how your choices af fect your monthly payment, overall costs both upfront and over time, and level of risk.

The term is how long you have to repay the loan. This affects your monthly principal and interest pay ment, interest rate, and how much interest you will pay.

INTEREST RATE TYPE

Interest rates come in two basic types: fixed and adjustable. This choice affects whether your interest rate can change, if your monthly pay ment can change and its amount, and how much interest you will pay over the life of the loan.

Your monthly payments are more likely to be stable with a fixed-rate loan, so you might prefer this option if you value certainty about your loan costs over the long term.

With a fixed-rate loan, your interest rate and monthly payment will stay the same.

Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) offer less predictability but may be cheaper in the short term. Your interest rate changes based on the market. Most ARMs have two periods.

During the first period, your interest rate is fixed and won’t change. Then, your rate goes up and down based on market changes. Most ARMs have a 30-year loan term.

CATEGORIES

Mortgage loans are organized into categories based on the size of the loan and whether they are part of a government program.

This choice affects how much you will need for a down payment, the total cost of your loan, in cluding interest and mortgage insurance, how much you can borrow, and the house price range you can consider. Loans are subject to basic government regula tion.

Generally, your lender must document and veri fy your income, employment, assets, debts, and credit history to determine whether you can af ford to repay the loan.

Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. www.consumerfinance.gov

Options for managing your money

Around here, you have many options to help you man age your money. It’s important to think about your particular needs and financial goals when selecting a bank in your new community.

“A local bank en hances the expe rience of a new community,” said Kevin Thompson, Frost Bank mar ket president in Boerne. “It helps a place feel like home. Research shows that a majority of Ameri cans still choose a bank based on proximity to where they live.”

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has devel oped a series of helpful ques tions to consider before choos ing a financial institution.

Do you receive a fixed paycheck or pension on a regular basis, or does the amount and frequency of your income vary? Do you prefer to make purchases using cash, credit cards, debit cards, paper checks or online? Do you set aside money regularly for savings? Are you concerned about possible overdrafts and the fees you might incur as a result?

“The more specialized or vari able a person’s financial needs, the more a local bank relation ship makes sense,” Thompson stated. “But even if a person’s financial life is automated, it’s often comforting to have a per sonal bank connection when the

unexpected happens.”

Julia Garza, vice president and banking center manager of Jefferson Bank in Boerne, says that when it comes to banking, “keeping it personal” is important. “We’re personally involved with

Cont’d on page 12

AT FROST, HIGH-TECH

Financial Services

MEETS HIGH-TOUCH.

Visit us at 1300 South Main St in Boerne or call (800) 51-FROST.

our community, which helps us better understand the needs of area residents,” Garza said. Some banks are publicly-traded institutions. Others are privately-owned, including Jefferson Bank, which has been operated by the same family since its founding in 1946. “It’s good to know who you’re doing business with.”

Checklist

Does the bank offer all the services I need? Does it have convenient branches and ATMs?

Is it insured by the FDIC? Requirements for opening an account?

Checking Accounts

Is there a minimum opening balance? Minimum monthly balance to avoid fees? Deposit hold times? Does it offer “Early Payday” for direct depos its?

Overdraft Programs

Are low balance alerts offered? Overdraft fees?

Is “Overdraft Grace” offered?

Link to a savings account to cover overdrafts?

Savings Accounts

Is there a minimum opening balance? Minimum monthly balance to avoid fees? Annual percentage yield (APY)? Withdrawal limits per month?

ATM / Debit Cards

Are there fees? Location/number of ATMs? Debit card transactions requirements or limits?

Mobile/Online Banking

Transaction types and limits? Online bill pay? Send money options like Zelle? Source: FDIC

A Personal Welcome to Kendall County.

For more than 75 years, we’ve been honing the craft of delivering contemporary banking services with an emphasis on exceptional personal service.

Protection for homeowners and lenders

Unlike other types of insurance, title insurance protects the insured from loss that may occur from matters or de fects from the past. According to Jamie D’Spain of Guar anty Title Company of Boerne, because most property own ers borrow money (mortgage) at the time of purchase or during ownership, the lender requests protection of its investment against loss.

“They insist upon a Mortgagee’s Title In surance Policy to protect their stockholder’s and investors’ investment in your property,”

D’Spain said. “An Owner’s Ti tle Insurance Policy protects your investment (equity) as the buyer or owner of the property. As the owner, you should want to have the same assurance as the lender that the investment you have made can not be lost because of a problem or defect with the title.”

LENDER’S AND OWNER’S INSURANCE

Lender’s title insurance protects your lender against problems with the title to your property, such as someone with a legal claim against the home. Lender’s title insurance does not protect your investment in the home.

When you purchase a home, you receive a deed showing the seller has transferred ownership to you. Owner’s title insurance protects you if someone sues, saying they have a claim against the home from before you purchased it.

Common claims come from a pre

Cont’d on page 14

Title Insurance

vious owner’s failure to pay taxes or from contractors who say they were not paid for work done on the home before you purchased it. If someone sues with a claim against your home, you are the first person responsible.

PROTECT YOUR EQUITY

To protect your equity in the event of a ti tle problem, you may want to purchase an owner’s title insurance policy. If you choose to buy owner’s title insurance, the total cost will usually be lower if you use the same provider for both the lender’s policy and the owner’s policy, compared to buying them separately.

Title services include title insurance, title search, and other costs and services asso ciated with issuing title insurance. All title companies charge the same rates set by the Texas Department of Insurance.

CHOOSING A CLOSING DATE

When choosing a closing date, consider the following: Does your purchase contract specify a particular deadline for closing? Is

there a specific date when you have to va cate your current housing? When does your rate-lock expire? Will your lender be able to complete their loan approval process in time for the closing? There may be more people trying to close near the end of the month. Consider scheduling your closing for the be ginning or the middle of the month.

READ YOUR POLICY

“Read your policy. It gives the legal descrip tion of your land, tells how to file a claim and describes your coverage, including lim itations, exclusions, exceptions and special conditions,” according to D’Spain. “A title company must defend your title in court, subject to certain limitations, and, if loses, the company pays covered losses up to the face amount of the policy. Your title policy amount is the sale price of the property plus the cost of immediately planned improve ments.”

For more information, visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) at consumerfinance.gov or visit guarantytitleboerne.com

Agents help you get what you need

You can buy insurance many dif ferent ways. How do you know what you need and how much to pay? An experienced, local expert with local knowledge will help you make the right choices for your specific needs.

“An insurance agent should help you evaluate your needs and op tions“ said Michael Glick of the independent Michael Glick In surance Agency in Boerne. This is especially important when it comes to your home.

“Every community is different. Having someone that knows about the local fire department, new subdivisions with fire hydrants (or not) and local protection class codes helps to make sure the rate for your home is correct,” Glick said.

You can choose an independent agent or a di rect agent. A direct agent sells insurance for one company. An independent agent may sell policies from different companies.

Your agent should evaluate your needs to make sure you are getting the proper coverage. “When it comes to homeowners insurance there is no standard policy anymore,” said Glick. “Knowing what you have and how to properly cover it is important. I personally inspect every property to make sure it meets the underwriting guidelines.”

“As part of the initial process of a policy review, I try to get to know my customers by finding their inter ests, long term goals and retirement plans,” Glick said. “This information helps me determine the liability lim its needed to protest their assets. Then we go over the features of their home to determine the replacement value so that in a major loss there is enough coverage to replace it.”

“Having

won’t do what they were hop ing it would do.”

Insurance

No matter how large or small, a home improvement project can give you the look and feel you desire for your unique living environ ment.

Fortunately, there are many thriving, successful busi nesses in our area that spe cialize in making your vi sion a reality.

Large jobs may require the use of a general contractor to manage all the aspects of the project, including subcontractors, permits and inspections.

It might also involve the use of an architect to design the home, addi tion or a major renovation.

Many times, homeowners hire specialty contractors such as roof

ing, flooring, painting, or restoration specialists.

HELPFUL TIPS

The Federal Trade Commission offers some tips:

Check with friends, neighbors, or co-workers who’ve used a contractor. Look at their work and inquire about their experience.

Find out how long the company has been in busi ness. An established company will have a record

and reputation. A contractor should be able to give you names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours.

Check for qualifications, like licensing. Get writ ten estimates and ask for an explanation of the costs.

Most cities require permits for building projects, even for simple jobs.

Choose a contractor familiar with the local per mitting process.

Contractors should have insurance, including personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage.

Make sure subcontractors have current insur ance coverage and licenses, if required.

For smaller projects, pay by check or credit card. Many people arrange financing for larger projects.

Make payments during the project contingent upon completion of defined amounts of work. Get a Written Contract. It should be clear and concise and includes the specifics and cost of

your project.

Keep all paperwork related to your project, including change orders and a record of all payments.

Don’t make the final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you’re satisfied.

You also need to know that subcontractors and suppliers have been paid.

Protect yourself by asking the contractor and every subcontractor and supplier for a lien release or lien waiver.

Before you sign off and make the final pay ment, check that all work meets the standards spelled out in the contract, and you have writ ten warranties for materials and workmanship.

Be sure that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid, the job site has been cleaned and cleared of excess materials, tools, and equipment, and you have inspected and ap proved the completed work.

For more information, visit www.consumer.ftc. gov/articles/0242-hiring-contractor

EXPERTS

What is Home Care and Do I Need It?

Medical Care

Before modern medicine, caring for someone medically in the home was quite common, and hospitalization was rare.

Today, with a growing trend toward reduced hospital stays, home care is gaining in popularity.

While caregivers of the past were generally family members or friends, home care today usually consists of a professional healthcare team work ing toward a common goal.

Today home care may be considered for patients who need a continuum of care. Home care professionals help patients:

• Discharged from the hospital but aren’t fully recovered.

• Chronic conditions which require frequent monitoring.

• A disease which requires skilled care, pain management or emotional support.

• Limited mobility and need assis tance with activities of daily living.

• A new diagnosis or change in a medical condition.

• A desire to live independently, but need extra support to do so safely.

• A family member/caretaker who needs a short break or emotional sup port in dealing with

When selecting a Home Care review

the offering of services and review the insurances accepted. Select Home Cares provide options for maintaining independent living, which are conve nient, safe and affordable.

HOME CARE CHECK LIST

Are you or your loved one experiencing any of these changes in your health or life? Take this checklist to your Primary Care Physician.

■ Need assistance with ac tivities of daily living: ■ Bathing and grooming ■ Dressing and Undressing ■ Meal Preparation and Feeding ■ Moving from place to place, getting in and out of a chair or bed ■ Safe Restroom Use and Maintaining Continence ■ Had a recent fall or fear of falling

Change in your medical condition ■ Change in your medication ■ Need for nursing, therapy or pain management ■ Chronic condition which needs monitoringsuch as diabetes or COPD

■ Recent hospitalization or surgery

■ A new wound or an old wound that won’t heal ■ Infusion therapy ■ Stroke therapy ■ Low Vision ■ Extra support required to maintain independence ■ No caregiver or support system

DO I NEED A PHYSICIAN’S

REFERRAL?

Skilled home health services such as nursing or

therapy do require an office visit and physician’s order.

If you or a family member have self-identified a need for home health services, you may ask your doctor for a referral or contact our office. Home Care Teams can communicate directly with your doctor’s office as well.

Do I have to be homebound?

Yes. Medicare and many private insurances require that home care service recipients be homebound. “Homebound” means that you have an illness or an injury that makes leaving your home for infrequent, short periods of time a considerable and taxing ef fort. A homebound client can still keep doctors’ ap pointments, attend church, go to the hairdresser and attend special occasions.

Do I need to live in a traditional house?

Depending on your selection of care, your Home Care team will come to you whether you are in a house, apartment, motel, B&B, assisted living facil ity or RV.

How long can I receive care?

Depending on your selection of care, your team will plan your care tailored to your needs and medical condition. Typically, home care is a short-term ser vice lasting up to nine weeks, though this can vary.

Be a part of the Kendall Community Relocation & Newcomers’ Guide

The guide offers a wide range of important information for new residents, including businesses they should consider using. It is available in print to those requesting information from the Boerne Chamber of Commerce, Boerne Visistors Center and other organizations about making the Kendall Community their new home and online at boerne.org/relocating

Upcoming issues:

SPRING EDITION Deadline Feb. 13

For advertising information, contact Brian Cartwright at (210)465-2060 or brian@cartwrightmedia.com

Providing remarkable care to aging well.

The HCM Resource Care Team are here to help you in navigating the options for your best care.

Specialist will partner with you every step of the way to create a plan that leaves you feeling comfortable and confident on your transition from Home Health, Supportive Care and Hospice.

For more information on how HCM can help you with aging well visit:

hillcountrymemorial.org or call (830) 997-1336

In an Emergency

Urgent Care

Urgent care center physi cians, assistants and nurse practitioners provide care for a great range of condi tions, including perform ing x-rays.

According to the Cleve land Clinic, an urgent care center is designed to handle conditions that are not life-threatening, but should be treated within 24 hours. These include sprains and strains, sinus infec tions, ear infections, allergies, especially those that get worse during certain seasons, minor cuts and burns, headaches and dizzi ness.

Check to make sure the urgent care center is covered by your health insurance plan.

FOR EMERGENCIES, DIAL 911

Kendall County EMS crews and ambulances are based in Boerne, Comfort and Bergheim, supported by first responders from all seven county fire departments. This provides faster care for those in remote locations in the county. In Fair Oaks Ranch, Acadian Ambulance Ser vices crews are dispatched along with Leon Springs Volunteer Fire Department first re sponders and Fair Oaks Ranch Police.

Community Snapshot

POPULATION

Boerne 19,326 Fair Oaks Ranch 10,603 Kendall County 46,453 Source: worldpopulationreview.com

MEDIAN HOUSING VALUE

Boerne $305,600 Fair Oaks Ranch $474,200 Kendall County $378,500

PROPERTY TAX RATES PER $100

Kendall County $ .3877 City of Boerne $ .4510 City of Fair Oaks Ranch $ .3291 Boerne ISD $1.1786

Comfort ISD $1.4796

BACHELOR’S DEGREE OR HIGHER

Boerne 44.3% Fair Oaks Ranch 66.3% Kendall County 45.3%

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

Boerne $77,917 Fair Oaks Ranch $129,154 Kendall County $98,692

HOUSEHOLDS

Boerne 5,547 Fair Oaks Ranch 3,771 Kendall County 14,789 Kendall Housing Units 18,793

COST OF LIVING INDEX

U.S. Average is 100

Boerne: 119.6 Fair Oaks Ranch: 130.0 Comfort: 112.2 San Antonio: 89.8 Kerrville: 89.7 Fredericksburg: 101.9 New Braunfels: 99.4

Source: bestplaces.net/cost-of-living

Workforce Solutions Alamo’s Boerne Career Center offers job seekers em ployment information, career develop ment training and other programs in the region. Program services include child care services, employer, job seeker and veterans services, vocational rehabilita tion, and youth empowerment services.

124 E. Bandera Rd., Ste. 401 Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 249-9229 Email: Boerne@wsalamo.org workforcesolutionsalamo.org

Around the County

Kendall County is named for George Wilkins Kendall, a celebrated journalist, war correspon dent, and sheepman who is largely credited with introducing the sheep industry to Texas.

The county would be named for him in the late 1850s. He would later die in Boerne, and he is buried in the Boerne Cemetery.

The county is home not only to Boerne, the county seat, but also to several other towns that include Bergheim, Sisterdale, Comfort, Waring, Welfare, Kendalia and parts of Fair Oaks Ranch. Each of these towns – most of them unincorpo rated – have their own distinctive feel.

Several award-winning restaurants and wineries are in the county, along with several retail stores, saloons, music venues, and more.

The Old Tunnel State Park is located between Comfort and Fredericksburg and is known for its emergence of Mexican free-tailed bats during the season (May-October). The park is open year-round for wildlife viewing, hiking and more. Several of these areas especially –Comfort – have B&Bs and lodging, and many

“Bat Viewing at Old Tunnel State Park (TPWD.texas.gov)

are located near the Guadalupe River and have opportunities for tubing and river access.

NEARBY NEIGHBORS

The drive around the Texas Hill Country is gorgeous, and while we are partial to Kend all County, you may want to explore a little further while becoming acquaint-ed with your new home in the area.

Austin (90 Mins)

Bandera (30 mins)

Fredericksburg (45 mins) New Braunfels (45 mins) Kerrville (30 mins) San Antonio (20 mins)

Things to consider in choosing a reputable shop

Choosing the right auto motive ser vice provider is important and can be challenging if you’re new to the area. How ever, by ask ing the right questions, you can narrow your search to locate a rep utable shop staffed by experienced, certified pro fessionals.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972 as an independent, non-profit organiza tion working to improve the quali ty of vehicle repair and service by testing and certifying automotive professionals.

TECH CERTIFICATION

In addition to passing an ASE Cer tification test, automotive techni cians must have two years of on the job training or one year of on the job training and a two-year de gree in automotive repair to quali fy for certification.

To remain ASE certified, profes sionals must retest every five years to keep up with ever-advancing au tomotive technology.

In addition to qualified techni cians, it’s important to select a re pair facility that offers a warranty on the parts and service, said Mark Belden, owner of Brady’s Auto

Repair in Boerne.

WARRANTY IMPORTANT

“Most reputable repair shops offer a two-year, 24,000 mile warranty on parts and labor for mechanical repairs such as replacing starters, alternators and radiators,” Belden said. “That’s the standard.”

Belden said it’s important the warranty is hon ored outside the immediate area so the repair is covered while traveling, noting that nation-wide repair networks exist should the need arise.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

“Do your due diligence. It’s also important to consider the length of time an auto repair busi ness has been in operation,” Belden said, adding that it’s also good to check a few different rat ings services, like the Better Business Bureau. Some things to consider when choosing an auto service provider to care for your vehicle:

• Look at the repair facilities website for more information.

Automotive Services

• Read online reviews from Google, Yelp or other online review sites.

• Ask if the automotive repair technicians are ASE Certified.

• Make sure an ASE Certified Technician is on staff that can handle your type of repairs.

• Drive by the building. Make sure it is it clean and professional.

• Pull in and see if there is adequate parking and a neat, orderly appearance.

• Go inside and make sure the waiting room is clean and comfortable.

• Check out the restroom to make sure it’s clean. It indicates how the facility is run.

• Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as profession al, civic, community, or customer service awards.

• Look for ASE Certifications, trade school diplomas and certifications of advanced course work on display.

• Is the front desk person friendly and cour teous?

• Is the Service Advisor willing to answer all of your questions in a way that you can understand what they are talking about?

• Do they warranty their parts and service?

• Do they have a policy to always contact you and get approval before they do any work on your vehicle?

• Do they have an after-hours key drop and pick-up procedure?

Consider starting with a small or minor job, such as an oil change or tire rotation. If you are satisfied, you can reward their good ser vice with repeat business and more complex work.

Source: National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)

Recognized for Excellence Across the State

that number expected to increase throughout the school year.

Boerne Independent School District

The Boerne Independent School District (BISD) is a highly sought-after “destination district” nestled in the scenic rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country. Fam ilies who are relocating to San Antonio for work often choose to make their home in Boerne, which is less than 30 minutes from the seventh-largest city in the United States.

Despite the proximity to a ma jor city, Boerne has retained its small-town charm and family atmosphere. One of the main at tractions, however, remains the top-ranked BISD School District.

Boerne ISD set an all-time record for student enrollment during the 2021-22 school year as they sur passed the 10,000 student mark. Entering the 2022-23 school year, BISD is expected to have over 10,800 students enrolled, with

AWARDS AND HONORS

The supportive community places a high prior ity on education—as reflected by the multitude of awards and distinguishments that have been bestowed upon the district and faculty, including the following:

• Best Small School District in Texas (20192020), H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards

• Top Workplace (2020) San Antonio Ex press-News

• 100% Graduation Rate

• Three Consecutive “A” Ratings by the TEA

• AP District Honor Roll – U.S. College Board

• Best Communities for Music Education designation

• Curington and Fair Oaks Ranch Elemen tary named National Showcase School by Capturing Kids Hearts

• National Innovative District by The International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE)

• Voss Middle School named National Showcase School by The National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform and the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals

ATHLETICS

The Boerne ISD Athlet ic Department continues to shine statewide. The Boerne Greyhounds Boys Soccer Team won back-to-back Class 4A State Championships in 2021 and 2022, while the Champion Chargers Girls Swim Team won the 2022 Class 5 State Championship in the 400 Free relay.

Boerne High School Boys 4A Soccer Team earned back-to-back Class 4A State Championships in 2021 and 2022.

Photo courtesy B Benway/BISD

Boerne and Champion also reached the State Final Four in Boys Basketball, as well as Girls Soccer.

Boerne High School earned back-to-back Dan Cook Cups in 2021 and 2022 as the best high school sports program in the San Antonio area.

FINE ARTS PROGRAMS

BISD offers many fine arts courses that enrich the BISD experience, including award-winning programs that encompass band, choir, orchestra, dance and drill team, visual arts, general music, theatre/drama, and more.

These programs offer an enhanced opportunity for a well-balanced education that includes fine arts.

CLUBS & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

BISD High Schools also offer clubs including Academic and Honor Clubs, Debate Teams, Mock Trial, Academic UIL, Career and Tech nical Clubs, FFA, Robotics Club, HOSA, Skills USA, FCCLA, Language and Culture Appreci ation, Service Clubs and Organizations, Student Council, Book Club, Boerne Buddies, Chess Club, JROTC, and a host of other clubs for fos tering fun and friendship.

BEYOND ACADEMICS

BISD has also implemented the “Whole Child Learning Initiative” which focuses on the entire student rather than just academics. Students and educators are trained in skills that are not often taught in public education: • Optimistic Thinking

Self-Management • Goal-Directed Behavior

Relationship Skills

Self-Awareness

Personal Responsibility

Decision Making • Social Awareness

For registration and other information about BISD, visit their website at www.boerneisd.net

Champion High Girls Swim team 5A State Champions Photo courtesy B Benway/BISD

The Champion Chargers made history in 2022 by winning their first-ever Class 5A State One Act Championship.

Photo courtesy B Benway/BISD

DISTRICT OFFICE

235 Johns Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-2000

Superintendent of Schools Thomas Price, Ed.D. (830) 357-2010

BISD School Board Trustees Jessica Davila Carlin Friar Donna Sharp Joe Tidwell Maritza Gonzalez-Cooper Rich Sena Garrett Wilson

Boerne Academy 235 Johns Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-3902

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Cibolo Creek Elementary 300 Herff Ranch Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-4400

Curington Elementary 601 Adler Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-4000

Fabra Elementary 723 Johns Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-4200

Fair Oaks Ranch Elementary 29085 Ralph Fair Road Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015 (830) 357-4800

Kendall Elementary

141 Old San Antonio Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-4600

Van Raub Elementary 8776 Dietz Elkhorn Road Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015 (830) 357-4100

Dr. Ferdinand L. Herff Elementary 604 Esperanza Blvd Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-4300

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Boerne Middle School North 240 Johns Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-3100

Boerne Middle School South 10 Cascade Caverns Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-3300

Capt. Mark Tyler Voss Middle School 45 Voss Parkway Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-3500

HIGH SCHOOLS

Boerne High School One Greyhound Lane Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-2200

Samuel V. Champion High School 201 Charger Blvd Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-2600

For registration and other Information about Bo erne ISD, visit their website at www.boerneisd.net

Boerne ISD Contacts

Champion High School

Boerne High School

Kendall County is fortu nate to have wonderful public school systems. Both Boerne ISD and Comfort ISD offer excel lent educations for all stu dents.

Comfort ISD has an ele mentary, middle, and high school whose missions are to find and cultivate the individual talents of every student by empowering students with knowledge to help them develop into productive citizens.

Students have opportunities to participate in many extracurric ular clubs and athletic teams, in cluding the Comfort Bobcats and the Comfort Deer.

For registration and other infor mation, including Pre-K and Kin dergarten, visit comfort.txed.net

COMFORT ISD OFFICE

232 High Street PO Box 398 Comfort, Texas 78013 (830) 995-6400

COMFORT HIGH SCHOOL

143 Hwy. 87 N., Comfort (830) 995-6430

For information, visit comfort.txed.net

COMFORT MIDDLE SCHOOL 216 High St., Comfort (830) 995-6420

For information, visit comfort.txed.net

COMFORT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

605 3 rd Street, Comfort (830) 995-6410

For information, visit comfort.txed.net

For students seeking advanced learning, the area offers an easy commute to community colleges and up to four-year universities.

SCHREINER UNIVERSITY

2100 Memorial Blvd. Kerrville, Texas 78028

For more information, visit schreiner.edu

WAYLAND BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

Teaching Site: Champion High School 201 Charger Blvd., Boerne For more information, visit wbu. edu

ALAMO COLLEGES

DISTRICT

Comfort ISD Higher Ed

Community college campuses in San Antonio, Kerrville and New Braunfels.

For more information about courses and certificate pro grams, visit alamo.edu

AREA PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Ambleside School of Boerne

Pre-K – 6th grade (830) 388-8865 amblesideboerne.com

Crestmont Christian Preparatory School

K – 12th grade (210) 254-4534 crestmontprep.org

Geneva School of Boerne K through 12th grade (830) 755-6101 genevaschooltx.org

Hill Country Montessori

18 months through middle school (830) 229-5377 hcmontessori.org

St. Helena’s Episcopal School Pre-K through 5th grade (830) 249-8084 sthelenas episcopalschool.com

TMI Episcopal 6th through 12th grade (210) 698-7171 tmi-sa.org

Vanguard Christian Institute

Pre-K through 12th Grade (830) 328-8305 becomeavanguard.com

EARLY LEARNING & CHILDCARE

Apple Tree Day School of Boerne (830) 981-4343 appletreeboerne.com

ExcellED Mon tessori Plus (210) 418-3288 excelledschools.com

FUMC Boerne Preschool (830) 249-4834 fumc-boerne.org/ fumcpreschool

Lil Explorers School (830) 331-4068 lilexplorersboerne.com

Children’s Lighthouse (210) 997-6122 childrenslighthouse. com/twocreeks

Messiah’s Kids Preschool (830) 755-2460 messiahkidstx.org

Mini Texans Christian Learning Center (830) 308-7049 minitexans.com

Planet Kids Learning Center (830) 249-5922 planetkids learningcenter.com

St. Mark Presbyterian Early Learning Center (830) 249-3813 www.stmarkelc.org

Thrive Early Learning Academy (830) 249-0031 thrivelearningacademy. com/boerne-location

Private & Early Education

Boerne and Kendall County are “blessed” to have an abun dance of houses of worship in the community.

The first church to be con structed in Boerne was St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church (1866), which was lo cated right outside of the city limits at that time because the free-thinkers who originally settled the area declared that no churches could be built within the city limits. As times changed and more settlers moved to the area and brought their

PLACES OF WORSHIP

Boerne Bible Church 1026 E. Blanco Rd (830) 249-2343 boernebiblechurch.org

Boerne Church of Christ 1 Upper Balcones Rd (830) 249-2685 boernechurchofchrist.org

Boerne United Pentecostal 244 Hwy. 46 E. (830) 249-5993 boerneupc.org

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 203 Stonegate Rd (830) 249-7863 local.churchofjesuschrist. org/us/tx/boerne

Cibolo Creek Community Church 30395 Ralph Fair Rd (830) 981-8989 cibolocreek.com

Currey Creek Church 35 Cascade Caverns Rd (830) 755-8806 curreycreek.com

Faith Bible Church of Boerne 1 Bergmann Rd (830) 249-8448 faithbiblechurchtx.org

First Baptist Church Boerne 631 S. School St (830) 249-2527 fbcboerne.org

religious practices with them, sentiments (and local laws) changed, and churches be gan sprouting up. Today, there are several dozen churches of many faiths located throughout the county.

First Baptist Church of Fair Oaks Ranch 31375 FM 3351 (830) 438-8504 fbcfairoaks.org

First United Methodist Church Boerne 205 James St (830) 249-2565 www.fumc-boerne.org

Kendall County Cowboy Church 605 FM 289 (Comfort) (210) 529-2144 kendallcountycowboychurch.org

Kingdom Hall (Jehovah’s Witnesses)

304 N. School St (830) 249-2452 jw.org

Living Hope Church 603 Frey St (830) 249-2174 lhcboerne.org

Messiah Lutheran Church 9401 Dietz Elkhorn Rd (830) 755-4300 messiahboerne.org

nineteen:ten church 130 Sisterdale Rd (830) 249-1217 1910church.com

St. Helena’s Episcopal 410 N. Main St (830) 249-3228 sthelenas.net

St. John’s Anglican 7 Sisterdale Rd (830) 249-3978 stjohnsboerne.org

St. John Lutheran 315 Rosewood Ave (830) 249-3651 stjohnlutheran.com

St. Mark Presbyterian Church 208 W Bandera Rd. (830) 816-3000 stmarktx.org

St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church 202 W. Kronkosky St (830) 816-2233 stpetersboerne.com

Spring Creek United Methodist Church 9200 Dietz Elkhorn Rd. (830) 981-8331 springcreekumc.org

Touchstone Community Church (UCC) 17 Old San Antonio Rd (830) 428-2817 touchstonecc.org

Trinity Presbyterian Church 31 Ammann Rd (830) 815-1212 trinityboerne.org

Unity Church of Boerne 121 Scenic Loop Rd (210) 395-4487 unityofboerne.org

Outdoor Recreation

Enjoy nature and sports at area parks and trails

Parks

CITY OF BOERNE PARKS

Boerne City Lake Park

1 City Lake Road

The 100-acre community park and lake offer a variety of recreational activities including a fishing pier, boat dock and ramp, bird observa tion blind, volleyball court, covered playground, butterfly garden, 9-hole Frisbee golf, picnic units with grills, trails, wildlife, fire rings and more. However because the lake is a city water supply, no gas-powered boats are allowed.

Boerne City Park 106 City Park Rd

A unique athletic park and facili ties that include tennis courts, play ground, Municipal pool, The Agri Cultural Museum and Arts Center, and Cibolo Nature Center.

Cibolo Nature Center and Herff Farm 140 City Park Rd (Nature Center) 33 Herff Rd (Farm) (830) 249.4616

100 acres of Hill County trails, wil derness and a historic farm. Saturday Farmers Market located at the Farm.

Main Plaza and Waterworks Terrace 100 N. Main St

Located in the heart of Boerne. Many events take place on the lawn of Main Plaza where the Gazebo takes center stage. Great place to relax, sit on a bench by the pond and people watch as passers-by stroll along Main Street.

Northrup Park

37550 IH-10W

A premier sports facility that offers a variety of sports fields, basketball court, youth and adult baseball fields, volleyball sand courts, and more.

River Road Park 415 River Rd

Located on the banks of the Cibolo Creek, the park is home to Boerne’s famous wild ducks and geese. One of the unique features is the dam locat

Old No.

ed at the east end of the park. Walking trails, picnic tables, public fishing.

Veterans Plaza 801 S Main St

Park includes a Walk of Honor, memorial plaques, and is handicapped accessible.

Kinderpark 111 Water St

Tucked in a quiet neighborhood, this is the most child-friendly public park in town. Play equipment is shaded by century-old oak trees and is appropri ate for a wide range of ages.

KENDALL COUNTY PARKS

James Kiehl River Bend Park 118 River Bend Rd (Comfort)

A secluded park perfect for fishing, paddling, swim ming, and relaxing along the Guadalupe River.

Joshua Springs Park and Preserve 716 FM 289 (Comfort)

Stocked pond, bird blinds, walking trails, picnic ar eas, and pavilions. The Ring Mountain Event Center is located on the hilltop with panoramic views, and it can be rented for events.

Kreutzberg Canyon Natural Area

143 Mark Twain Dr (Boerne) 117-acre scenic canyon with Guadalupe River front age allowing public river access. Trails, birding, wildlife viewing, fossil and nature study.

STATE PARKS

Guadalupe River State Park 3350 Park Rd 31 (Spring Branch)

Located 20 minutes from Boerne. Combined with adjacent Honey Creek State Natural Area, the park encompasses 4,200 acres of Texas Hill Country habitat.

A rest stop along the

9 Trail offers water for humans and their furry friends.

Old Tunnel State Park

10619 San Antonio Rd (Fredericksburg)

Located in Kendall County, 13 miles north of Comfort. Bats emerge nightly during season (May-Oct) from an abandoned railway tunnel.

Trails

Old No. 9 Trail

358 Esser Rd

This trail follows the Old No. 9 Railway through town. The Patrick Heath Public Library is connected to the trail by a bridge. There is also a lot to explore on the library grounds.

Currey Creek Trail

1017 Adler Rd

0.5- mile linear park trailhead is located at the Parks & Rec Offices on Adler Rd. and winds 0.5 miles to Blanco Rd.

Cibolo Trail

North Trail Head (100 N Main) South Trail Head (106 City Park Rd)

3.15-mile linear park. It follows Cibolo Creek and extends from Main Plaza to City Park. Users can navigate in and out of the famed Hill Country Mile.

Public Art Trail

Art al Fresco www.artalfresco.org

Art al Fresco is Boerne’s walkable, outdoor art ad venture where you can get up close with large-scale sculptures that are placed throughout the historic Hill Country Mile and throughout the Boerne trail and parks system, the library grounds, and more.

Hill Country Mile www.HillCountryMile.com

A walk along Boerne’s Hill Country Mile will yield a treasure-trove of more than 50 colorful stores in historic buildings that have been given new lives as shops, craft breweries, restaurants, bistro’s, galler ies, and more. Country Living Magazine named the Hill Country Mile one of the “Top 25 Small Town Main Streets in America.”

River Road Park hugs the banks of the Cibolo Creek where Boerne’s iconic ducks hang out.

Welcome to Comfort

An Antique Town... and So Much More!

Comfort, an unincorporated community in Kendall County, has long been known as a des tination for antique-lovers, and for good reason. Located just 15 minutes from Boerne and 45 minutes from San Antonio, Comfort was established in 1854 by German Freethinkers. Comfort is the tranquil type of town where people escape to from large cities in order to settle down and raise a family. Others find it the perfect place to retire.

The Guadalupe River and Cy press Creek meander through out the town, and much of the recreational economy is built upon the river. The town has a more laid-back vibe than some of its Texas Hill Country neighbors, and that is the way the locals like it!

Today, this charming town is well known for its quaint bed and breakfasts, dining scene, live music, wineries and distilleries, outdoor recreation, and shopping along a Historic district that is rich in history. Nearly the entire downtown is walkable and many of the buildings are on the Nation al Historic Register, with several of these architectural gems now being given new lives as galleries, bistros, retail stores, and more.

Comfort’s High Street is lined with a variety of shops and galleries.

The downtown area boasts more than 100 structures in the area dating back to the 1800s, with a few designed by the noted architect Al fred Giles.

There are abundant bed and breakfasts in the area that offer everything from lavishly deco rated Victorian Mansions to rustic accommoda tions and picturesque riverside lodging--- and everything in-between. There are also several RV parks in the area, including some that offer cabins.

The country roads that wind along the Guada lupe River and Cypress Creek which meander through town are perfect for motorcycle and bike enthusiasts, especially during the spring when the roadsides are dotted with blazing col or from the wildflowers.

Nearby Old Tunnel State Park is also a great place to bat watch, and Buck horn Golf Course is also nearby.

For more information about Comfort, visit the Comfort Chamber of Commerce website at www.ComfortChamber.com

Just 8 miles southeast of Boerne is the city of Fair Oaks Ranch (FOR), which encom passes parts of Kend all, Comal and Bexar counties within its 8.5 square miles. The land on which the city sits originally was the prop erty of Ralph Fair, Sr. who was a successful cattle and oilman, and is one of the most popular areas to live in Kendall County due to its con venient location that al lows quick commute times to both San Antonio and Boerne.

The Fair family established a residential com munity in the 1970’s, and by 1988 the area was incorporated. It is served by its own 24-hour police force, with other services such as fire protection contracted through the nearby Leon Springs Volunteer Fire Department, and EMS services contracted through Acadian Ambulance Services.

The City of Fair Oaks Ranch is a Home Rule city, and it is served by a Mayor and Council, and the City Manager is the Chief Operating Of ficer for the City working under the City Coun cil. This close-knit community is also served by an active Fair Oaks Ranch Homeowner’s Asso ciation (FORHA), who also own and maintain the parks and trails that serve members of the

FORHA and their guests. The houses are generally single-family residential with some commercial, and the city and its facilities are well-maintained.

The city of FOR is served by the Boerne Independent School District, with schools that serve residents being Fair Oaks Ranch Elementary, Kendall Elementary and Van Raub Elementary Schools which serve grades K-5; Boerne Middle School South and the new Capt. Mark Tyler Voss Middle School serving grades 6-8; and Boerne Samuel V. Champion High School serving grades 9-12.

Prominent features of FOR are the tree-lined median, which also leads to the members-only Fair Oaks Ranch Golf and Country Club whose most iconic feature is the historic clubhouse, once the residence of Ralph Fair, Sr. The club, which lies in the heart of FOR against a backdrop of heri tage trees and a lush golf course, offers members tennis, golf, swim ming, dining, and fitness activities. Many weddings and other celebra tions are also held at the club.

For more information about Fair Oaks Ranch, visit www.FairOaks RanchTx.org.

Fair Oaks Ranch

Government & Services

Contact info for elected officials and available services

VOTING

Kendall County Elections Department

221 Fawn Valley Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 331-8701

Texas does not have online voter registration. You can request a voter registration appli cation be mailed to you or pick one up in person. It must be returned or mailed at least 30 days prior to election date. www.co.kendall.x.us/elections

Boerne City Hall (above) shares space with the Patrick Heath Public Library (far right) on the City Campus.

ELECTED OFFICIALS FEDERAL

U.S. Senator John Cornyn U.S. Senator Ted Cruz U.S. Representative Chip Roy TX-21

STATE Sen. Donna Campbell Senate District 25 Rep. Kyle Biedermann State House District 73 KENDALL COUNTY (830) 249-9343 www.co.kendall.tx.us

Judge Darrel Lux Commissioners

Christina Bergmann, Pct. 1

Richard W. Elkins, Pct. 2

Richard Chapman, Pct. 3 Don Durden, Pct. 4

MUNICIPALITIES

City of Boerne Boerne City Hall 447 N. Main St Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9511 www.ci.boerne.tx.us

Mayor Tim Handren Council Members Ty Wolosin Nina Woolard Quinten Scott Bryce Boddie Joseph Macaluso

City of Fair Oaks Ranch 7286 Dietz Elkhorn Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015 (210) 698-0900 www.fairoaksranchtx.org

Mayor Greg Maxton Council Members Emily Stroup Roy Elizondo Michelle Bliss Laura Koerner Scott Parker Chesley Muenchow Cow Creek Groundwa ter

Conservation District (830) 816-2504 www.ccgcd.org Board members Milan J. Michalec, President Bob Webster Curt G. Campbell Allan P. Bloxsom, III

Benjamin Eldredge

DRIVERS LICENSE

All driver license and identification card services in cluding drive tests are by appointment at www.dps.texas. gov/Driver License/ appointments

Driver’s License Texas Department of Public Safety 1415 East Blanco Rd, Suite 2, Boerne (830) 249-6335

REGISTRATION LICENSE PLATES

Kendall County Tax Assessor-Collector 201 E. San Antonio, Suite 105 Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 249-9343 co.kendall.tx.us/ page/county.asses sor.collector

ANIMAL SHELTERS

Boerne Animal Shelter (830) 249-2456 www.ci.boerne.tx.us/79/Ani mal-Care-Services

Kendall County Animal Control Shelter (830) 537-3430 co.kendall.tx.us/page/animal. control

RECYCLING

Kendall County Solid Waste 46 Spanish Pass Rd Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 537-4542

Comfort 28 FM 473 Comfort, TX 78013 (830) 3318250

Kendall County Brush Site 202 Charger Blvd Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 331-8156

OTHER SERVICES

AIRPORTS

San Antonio Intl. Airport 9800 Airport Blvd (San Anto nio) (210) 207-3433

Boerne Stage Airfield 100 Boerne Stage Air Field (830) 981-2345 www.boernestage airfield.com

Comfort Airpark 175 Air Park Rd Comfort, TX 78013 (714) 316-9058

LIBRARIES

Boerne Patrick Heath Public Library

451 N. Main St Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-3053 www.ci.boerne.tx.us/197/li brary

Comfort Public Library

701 High St Comfort, TX 78013 www.comfortpublic library.org (830) 995-2398

Kendalia Public Library 2610 FM-473 Kendalia, TX 78027 (830) 336-2002 www.kendalialibrary.com

POSTAL SERVICES

Boerne Post Office 607 E. Blanco Rd (830) 249-2414

Boerne UPS Store 215 W. Bandera Rd Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-6720

Parcel Express 234 W Bandera Rd Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-8199

Comfort Post Office 726 Front St Comfort, TX 78013 (830) 995-3603

SENIOR CENTER

The Center at Kronkosky Place

17 Old San Antonio Rd Boerne, TX 78006 830) 249-2114 www.thecenterboerne.org

TRANSPORTATION

ART-Alamo Regional Transit (866) 889-7433

Chauffeurs on Demand (210) 887-5866

Hill Country Crown SUV (817) 368-0279

Uber & Lyft services

Available in some parts of the county.

Organizations

Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation (BKCEDC) 1221 S. Main St Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 331.9070 www.bkcedc.com

Kendall County is the 11th-fast est growing county in the state of Texas and the 31st-fastest growing county in the nation. (U.S. Census 2010-20). The BKCEDC helps businesses looking to relocate, expand or start businesses in the area.

YOUTH GROUPS

Kendall County Youth Agriculture & Equestrian Center 648 FM 289 Comfort, TX 78013 (830) 331.8242 www.kcyaec.org

Home to 4-H, FFA and Jr. Live stock members who participate in agriculture and equestrian activities, competitions and ed ucational enterprises.

The mission is to fund scholar ships and provide a multi-purpose venue in support of the youth agriculture community. Annual fundraising event is the Family Ranch Rodeo Fest that gives folks a glimpse into the real day-to-day life of ranch cowboys and cowgirls.

Kendall County 4-H Clubs www.Kendall.agriclife. org/4-h/

Kendall County Junior Livestock Association kcyaec.org/jrlivestock Encourages young men and women to become future farm ers and ranchers

through educational experiences, live stock production and an annual livestock show and sale, each January at the Youth Ag & Equestrian Center.

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

The Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce 121 S. Main Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249.8000 www.boerne.org

The Chamber has approximately 900 members representing over 17,500 em ployees. Since 1928, the goal of the Chamber is to promote commerce and im prove economic vitality through advocacy, education and connections of its members and community.

Comfort Chamber of Commerce/ Visitor Center 630 Hwy 27 Comfort, TX 78013 (830) 995.3131 www.comfortchamber.com

The Comfort Chamber of Commerce is the official chamber for the area and has been serving Comfort and surrounding communities for over 60 years. They also serve as a visitors center with maps, bro chures and area information.

4-H member Taylor Jaimes shows his heifer at the Kendall County Jr. Livestock Show.

Bandera Electric Cooperative Energy Saver Program

BEC launched the Energy Saver Pro gram in 2021 to help members identify and finance the cost of energy improve ments.

This voluntary program provides par ticipating members with an energy audit to find crucial energy improvements to reduce energy use, save money and im prove the comfort of their home or com mercial property.

“The cornerstone of this plan is to save members money on day one by reducing energy waste,” says Bill Hetherington, BEC CEO. “The costs for these improve ments will be offset by reductions in en ergy usage, so there will be a net savings to members.”

The audit is conducted by a certified energy auditor from BEC and includes a room-by-room examination of the property, a blower door test and a review of past utility bills.

Prior to installation, BEC verifies that all energy im provements will provide either energy cost or energy use savings. All of the energy improvements must re duce kilowatt-hour consumption or the member’s elec tric bill annually or over the life of the improvement.

Participating members will have energy improve ments installed in their home or commercial property. These energy improvements are grouped into three

missions and are designed to reduce the amount paid for energy and/or re duce energy use.

Program Mission 1, Apolloware Sav er: BEC completes a certified energy audit, provides a full report for your home or business and a smart thermo stat. Apolloware, BEC’s energy analyt ics and monitoring meter, is installed and provides members with real-time energy consumption data via its easyto-use mobile app.

Program Mission 2, Energy Saver (requires Mission 1 completion): BEC reviews the energy audit results and recommends eligible energy improve ments like weatherization, window and door replacements, HVAC upgrades, electric water heater replacement, in sulation and more.

Program Mission 3, Solar Saver (Mission 1 completion recommended): Members can work with BEC or an ap proved third-party installer to size and install eligible energy improvements consisting of a solar power system, battery storage and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Energy efficiency improvement costs are called the Energy Saver Program Charge, which is amortized over a pe riod of 10 years and is repaid by the participating member on their monthly electric bill as a separate line item for each completed mission. With the En ergy Saver and Solar Saver missions, members pay the Energy Saver Pro gram Charge plus a 5% program fee.

There is no credit check, no mini mum income required, and any on-bill financing is tied to the meter, not the member.

To learn more about the program and eligibility requirements, please visit BanderaElectric.com/EnergySaver or call 830.331.4500.

Smart Technology

Things to Do

Attractions & Events

CAVES

Cascade Caverns

226 Cascade Caverns Rd (830) 755.8080

Boerne’s oldest tourist attraction (1932). Of fers daily one-hour tours, special 3-hour ad venture tours and evening flashlight tours. Onsite gift shop, pavilion, picnic, camping/RV area. Tours daily.

Cave Without

A Name

325 Kreutzberg Rd (830) 537.4212

Designated as a Na tional Natural Land mark. Breath-taking formations, from delicate soda straws to huge columns. Daily tours, gift shop, pavilion, picnic areas, geode cutting, treasure panning, hiking trails, camping/ RV sites. Special “Concerts in the Cave” in the Queen’s Throne Room.

GOLF Buckhorn

Tapatio

1 Resort Way • (830) 537-4197 stone cliffs, gorgeous vistas.

FARMERS MARKETS

Farmers Market at the Cibolo 33 Herff Rd (at Herff Farm) (830) 249-4616

Farmer’s market at 1850’s pioneer Herff Farmstead. Every Sat. 9a-1p (Jan-Dec)

MUSEUMS/HERITAGE

AgriCultural Museum & Arts Center

102 City Park Rd 210.445.1080

Historical outdoor museum featuring exhibits of early farm life, blacksmith, and early heritage. Open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and for special events.

Kendall County Historic Jail Museum 208 E San Antonio Ave., 830-428-6191

Historical museum housed in original 1887 jail, restored with artifacts from the county. 4 operable jail cells, exhib its.Open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.thejail.org

Kuhlmann-King Historical House

402 E Blanco Rd • (210) 275.8301

German house dates to the 1880s. Open 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Call for hours.

NATURE

Cibolo Center for Conservation 140 City Park Rd (830) 249.4616

160 acres of Hill Country trails and wilderness on two campuses for walk ing, hiking and exploration through five unique ecosystems.

BOERNE VISITORS CENTER

For more information about area events, shopping, dining, lodging and more, go to VISITBOERNE.ORG, the official website of the Boerne Visitors Center. Pick up bro chures, maps, the Boerne Visitors Guide and more. Or download a copy from the website. The Boerne Visitors Center is located at 282 N. Main. (830) 249.7277.

THEME PARKS

SeaWorld San Antonio

10500 Sea World Dr (San Antonio) 210.520.4732

Six Flags Fiesta Texas 17000 IH-10W (San Antonio) 210.697.5050

The following events are held annually. Go to VISITBOERNE.ORG for updated schedules.

January Kendall County Livestock Show

February

Boerne Chocolate Walk Boerne Spring Antiques Show

March

Bluegrass Jam at the AgriCultural Museum & Arts Center

April Texas Corvette Association Car Show

May

Art Waddle

June

Bluegrass Jam at the AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center

July Independence Day Fireworks

August

Bluegrass Jam at the AgriCultural Museum & Arts Center

September Kendall County Fair (Labor Day Weekend)

October

All-British Car Day November Holiday Market Days Boerne Fall Antiques Show

Dickens on Main Old West Christmas Light Fest at Enchanted Springs Ranch (ThanksgivingChristmas)

December Kinder Fest

Oma’s Christmas Craft Fair Stocking Stroll

Weihnachts Parade Two Christmas Market Days

REGULAR EVENTS

Boerne Market Days (2nd Weekends)

Concerts in the Cave Without a Name Monthly

Farmers’ Market at the Cibolo (Saturdays January - December)

SEASONAL EVENTS

Abendkonzerte by the Boerne Village Band on Main Plaza alternate Tuesdays June through August Concerts in the Park Boerne Concert Band

NOTE: Due to the changing nature of COVID-19, all events are subject to change.

Events

Dining in the County

Whatever you’re hungry for, you’ll find satisfaction here

Kendall County is home to many popular restaurants that offer everything from casual, Southern fare to upscale, Euro pean-inspired dining.

In addition to a wide array of sit-down dining, there are also many food trucks and fast-food options in the area with special ties that include grilled cheese sandwiches, tamales, tacos, BBQ, and much more.

Several restaurants offer both indoor and outdoor dining, and a few are nestled cozily along the banks of the Cibolo Creek, Guadalupe River, and other scenic areas. Some offer a ro mantic, fine dining experience with an upscale atmosphere and extensive wine lists, while others feature family-friendly options that include play areas for the kids.

Please check with each restau rant before you visit for their current operating schedules and COVID-19 policies. The following list represents some of the options available throughout the county:

Barbeque

Blackboard BBQ 1123 FM 1376 Sisterdale (830) 324-6858

Fritze’s BBQ 926 N Main St Boerne (830) 331-9903

Hillbillyz (temporarily closed) 1931 FM 473 Kendalia (830) 336-2101

Klein Smokehouse 342 N Main St Boerne (830) 249-8063

Smokey Mo’s 1685 River Rd Boerne (830) 331-2633

Blacksmith Grill 103 N Main St Boerne (830) 331-2227

Pubs/Sports Bars/Wings

Cibolo Creek Brewing Co 448 S Main St Boerne (830) 816-5275

Dodging Duck Brewhaus 402 River Rd Boerne (830) 248-3825

Free Roam BrewingCo. 325 S Main St. (830) 582-9741

Horseshoe Pub & Pizza 429 Front St Comfort (830) 995-5150

SAUCED Wing Bar 215 W Bandera Rd Boerne (830) 331-4398

Casual/Family Dining Chili’s Grill & Bar 601 W Bandera Rd Boerne (830) 249-8558

Cypress Creek Inn Restaurant 408 State Hwy 27 Comfort (830) 995-3977

Denny’s 435 W Bandera Rd Boerne (830) 816-2300

Dog & Pony Grill 1481 S Main St Boerne (830) 816-7669

Hungry Horse Restaurant 109 S Saunders St Boerne (830) 816-8989

Longhorn Café 369 S Esser Rd Boerne (830) 331-4011

PoPo Family Restaurant 829 FM 289 Welfare (830) 537-4194

Chinese China Bowl 1361 S Main St Boerne (830) 331-8558

Lung Fung 1004 N Main St Boerne (830) 249-6185

Shang Hai 430 W Bandera Rd Boerne (830) 249-4982

Coffee Houses/Cafe Bear Moon Bakery 401 S Main St Boerne (830) 816-2327

Black Rifle Coffee Co. 101 S Main St Boerne (830) 428-6736

Comfort Coffee Company 523 Eighth St Comfort (210) 983-7005 Daily Grind 141 S Main St Boerne (830) 249-4677

High’s Café & Store 726 High Street Comfort (830) 995-4995

Lani’s Cheesecakes & Coffee House 510 State Hwy 27 Comfort (830) 995-5264

The Lobby Coffee Shop 523 7th St Comfort Starbucks Coffee 35065 IH-10W Boerne (830) 249-0728

The Wander’n Calf 817 Front St Comfort (830) 428-2710

Deli/Sandwich/Burgers

Bumdoodler’s Lunch Co. 929 N Main St Boerne (830) 249-8826

Boerne Epicure Gourmet Market 210 S Main St Boerne (830) 331-9355

Nico’s Gourmet Burgers 109 Waterview Pkwy #104 Boerne (830) 431-6836

Donuts

Dunkin Donuts

214 W Bandera Rd Boerne (830) 331-2251

M&M Donuts

1415 E Blanco Rd Boerne (830) 249-7929

Snowflake Donuts & Kolaches 1222 S Main St 1685 River Rd #100 Boerne (830) 249-8686

Fine Dining

259 Brantley’s Bistro & Bar 259 S Main St Boerne (830) 331-8889

The Bevy Provisions Co 101 Herff Rd Boerne (830) 816-5606

The Creek Restaurant 119 Staffel St Boerne (830) 816-2005

Cypress Grille 170 S Main St Boerne (830) 248-1353

La Cascada Table & Bar 1 Resort Way Boerne (830) 537-4612

O’Brien’s 848 Hwy 46 Bergheim (830) 229-5600

Peggy’s on the Green 128 W Blanco Rd Boerne (830) 572-5000

Richter Tavern 153 S Main Boerne (830) 331-2675

German Dodging Duck Brewhaus 402 River Rd Boerne (830) 248-3825

Little Gretel Boerne 518 River Rd (830) 331-1368

Ice Cream/Yogurt/Snow Cones

Baskin-Robbins 214 W Bandera Rd Boerne (830) 331-2251

Kelani Yogurt 463 S Main St Boerne (830) 331-9636

Salty & Sweet 123 N Main St Boerne (830) 331-1330

The Stand 470 S Main St Boerne

Latin Botero Tapas + Wine Bar 161 S Main St Boerne (830) 446-3035

Casa Amaya 103 Waterview Pkwy Boerne (830) 331-4190

Mexican Boerne Taco House 470 S Main St #200 Boerne Centinela 215 W Bandera Rd Boerne (830) 249-2023

Compadres Hill Country Cocina 209 Lohmann St Boerne (830) 331-2198

El Cazador 250 River Road (830)331-8692

El Rio 1361 S Main Boerne (830) 249-9555

Guadalajara Mexican Grill 1234 S Main St Boerne (830) 249-1467

Las Guitarras Cocina Mexicana 911 S Main St Boerne (830) 331-8787

Los Jarros 1005 US Hwy 87 Comfort (830) 995-4112

Mague’s Café

934 N Main St Boerne (830) 249-9168

Mary’s Tacos 518 E Blanco Rd Boerne (830) 249-7474

Taqueria Reyna Tapatia 1000 N Main St Boerne (830) 331-1076

Pastries/Pies

Bumdoodler’s Lunch Co. 929 N Main St Boerne (830) 249-8826

The Dienger Trading Co 210 N Main St Boerne (830) 331-2225

Richter Bakhaus 153 S Main St Boerne (830) 331-2675

Tootie Pie Co 1445 S Main St Boerne (210) 331-7439

Pizza/Italian Bella Sera 812 N Main St Boerne (830) 816-5577

Broken Stone Pizza 1022 N Main St Boerne (830) 331-9020

Comfort Pizza 802 High St Comfort (830) 995-5959

La Calabria Pizzeria 390 Hermann Sons Rd East Comfort (830) 254-4235

Marco’s Pizza 1560 River Rd Boerne (830) 226-1010

Inferno’s Wood Fired Oven & Spirits 1540 River Rd Boerne (830) 331-2023

Valeria Ristorante Italiano 109 Waterview Pkwy Boerne (830) 331-1393

Z’s Wood Fired Pizza 118 Old San Antonio Rd Boerne (830) 331-1212

Thai Love Thai 109 Waterview Pkwy Boerne (830) 249-1070

N’s Thai 115 Adler Rd Boerne (830) 331-2004