Bandera County

Bandera County Offices

Bandera County Town List

Bandera County is located in the Edwards Plateau region of the Trans-Pecos. The county seat, Bandera, lies at an elevation above sea level on the western edge of the Llano Estacado. It is famously known as the Cowboy Capital of the World. 

The county has a total area of 2,067 km² with a population of 23,122.  

History of Bandera County 

In 1839, Stephen F. Austin established what would become known as Texas’ first permanent settlement near present-day San Antonio de Valero. Within the same year, he founded the town of Goliad to serve as his headquarters for the Mexican–American War.  

After the war ended, many settlers moved westward from their original homes along the Colorado River or farther north into Indian Territory. By 1850, most settled around the old Spanish missions in central Texas.  

However, in 1860, when the Civil War began, there were only two settlements within the current boundaries of Bandera County: La Vernia and Bandera. During this period, the county’s name changed several times before settling upon its current designation.  

It was called Medina County, then later named after the nearby Rio Grande River. Finally, in 1880, the citizens voted to change the name back to Bandera County.  

What Is Bandera County Known For? 

Bandera is famous for its sweeping landscapes and cowboy heritage. The sites include historic Old West towns like Banderas Ranch, the beautiful city of Bandera, and the picturesque mountain ranges surrounding the county.  

You can tour other places like the Bandera Museum, the Fort Sill National Historic Site, and the Big Bend International Airport. If you prefer something more adventurous, head over to the Guadalupe Mountains, where you’ll find hiking trails, camping sites, and even hot springs. Mount Bonita offers incredible views of the valley below. Another notable landmark is the Bandera Cathedral which sits atop the highest peak in the county. 

What Is There to Do in Bandera, Texas? 

There are many things to do in Bandera. For example, you can ride a horse, swim in the Medina river, visit Bandera city park, fish, and hike through the Canyonlands.   

Moreover, you can play golf, watch live music performances, enjoy local cuisine, see art exhibits, attend rodeo events, shop at unique boutiques, and much more. 

What Is the Weather like in Bandera? 

There are three distinct seasons in Bandera County. Springtime brings warm temperatures with sunny days and cool nights. Summer is usually dry but very hot. Fall brings cooler weather with clear skies and crisp mornings. Winter is cold with snowy storms and rain showers. Each season provides different activities for residents and visitors alike.  

Are the Banderas Expansive Lands Arable? 

If you like agriculture, there are plenty of farms throughout Bandera County. Farming has been an essential part of life in Bandera since the early 1900s. Many people raise cattle on ranches while others grow crops. Today, farming continues to thrive in the area, with the major crop produced by farmers being cotton. 

Some farmers sell locally grown produce, while others ship out products across the country.  

Other common agricultural items include corn, wheat, sorghum, oats, hay, alfalfa, soybeans, peanuts, sugar cane, and citrus fruits. Moreover, the department of agriculture guides new farmers about how they should plant and care for their land so they don’t have any problems growing food. 

Bandera County Offices 

Bandera County government offices are located in Bandera 515 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003.  The county is under the county executive who oversees all departments, including law enforcement, public works, finance, health & human services, planning, etc. 

County officials work closely with state agencies on issues affecting the county. They help cities and counties throughout Texas. Some examples include helping them develop plans for growth management, providing technical advice about land use regulations, assisting in disaster recovery efforts, and offering grants to help fund projects. 

The current county Judge is Richard Evans, whose roles include: 

• Presiding over court proceedings. 
• Overseeing legal matters. 
• Issuing marriage licenses. 
• Serving as an election judge. 
• Appointing judges. 
• Handling juvenile cases. 
• Performing various administrative duties. 

You can reach Richard Evans through the [email protected], call the office via 830-796-3781 or visit the offices at Bandera 515 Main St, Bandera, TX 78003. 

Another key county office is the Sheriff’s office. The office is under Sherriff Dan Butts, who ensures smooth law enforcement, and criminals are caught when necessary.   

His deputies enforce traffic violations, investigate crimes, serve warrants and provide security during special occasions. They further protect people from harm and assist emergency personnel. You can reach the sheriff’s office through the address 3360 State Hwy. 173 North, [email protected] or call 830-796-3771.  

Other offices in the county include; 

• County clerk headed by Tandie Mansfield reachable through [email protected] or call 830-796-3332. 
• Tax assessor-collector led by Rebekah Dolpus reachable via 830-796-3731. 
• Treasurer Schmidt via [email protected], or call 830-796-4197. 
• Auditor’s office is headed by Darryl Sadler, who you can reach through [email protected].

Bandera Safety and Living 

Regarding safety, the county offers 24-hour police protection. There are also numerous other resources available such as EMS, fire department, hospital, libraries, schools, and churches.  

Many grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, banks, ATMs, pharmacies, and auto repair shops are available. Therefore, all the services you need are within the county, making everything simple and efficient. 

Cities in Bandera County 

There are three major cities in Bandera County. These include Bandera, Lake Medina Shores, and Lakehills. These cities offer everything needed for daily life. Residents can find jobs at local businesses or go out into the world looking for employment elsewhere.  

Conclusion 

Bandera county is a great place to call home. It provides residents with safe neighborhoods, excellent education systems, abundant job opportunities, and much more.  

Plus, you enjoy a bunch of benefits from being part of this beautiful community.