Growing older in Hays County CONTINUED ON 18 From the cover
What’s happening?
Hays County’s population isn’t just expanding— it’s also aging. Between 2000 and 2024, the total population nearly tripled, from just under 100,000 residents to almost 300,000 in recent U.S. Census Bureau estimates. At the same time, the percentage of people age 65 and older nearly doubled from about 7.5% to 13%.
Leaders across the county are responding with new plans focused on older residents. Hays County formed the Task Force for Aging Gracefully for Everyone, or A.G.E., in December 2024 and has since launched several projects, including a community resource guide and an action plan. The cities of San Marcos, Buda and Kyle are also
rolling out senior-focused efforts, ranging from home repair help to new plans and hubs. “Living doesn’t stop just because you turn 50 or 60. We shouldn’t have to be stuck at home in front of a TV all day,” said 70-year-old Betty Connelly, president of nonprofit Kyle Area Senior Zone, or KASZ, which provides a space for area seniors to give back, meet friends, learn skills and more. “We have a lot to give back.”
San Marcos offers home repair help A Community Development Block Grant-funded Home Rehabilitation and Repair Program introduced in 2025 offers residents up to $25,000 in forgivable grants and up to $75,000 in deferred, zero-interest loans for major repairs.
San Marcos
than 80% of the area’s median income. For 2025, that is up to $72,950 for a one-person household and up to $104,200 for a four-person household, according to thresholds set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. A city review committee began going through the pre-application submissions in late November. Those approved will be invited to submit a full application with more details for funding. Officials said they are still deciding if this will be offered each year or every two years.
From Oct. 8 to Nov. 17, San Marcos officials opened pre-applications for a new Community Development Block Grant-funded Home Rehabilitation and Repair Program, offering up to $25,000 in forgivable grants and up to $75,000 in deferred, zero-interest loans for major repairs. Planning and Development Services officials said they are prioritizing applications based on whether anyone in the home is an older adult or has a disability. The new program is limited to applicants who own and live in a single-family home. Additionally, the program is reserved for those making less
Roof repair or replacement
Heating, ventilation and cooling
Plumbing and electrical
Flooring and siding
Lead-based paint remediation
Accessibility improvements
2025 application process September: city announces upcoming pre-application window
The latest Pre-applications for home repair funding are closed while a review committee evaluates recent requests. No deadline has been released regarding when the approval notifications will begin; however, updates will be provided by city staff online at www.sanmarcostx.gov/3508/Home-Rehabilitation-Repair-Program.
October: pre-application window opens November: pre-application window closes December: committee begins reviewing submissions
10.7% of the San Marcos population is age 65 or older.
San Marcos
SOURCES: CITY OF SAN MARCOS, U.S. CENSUS BUREAU/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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