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The Hays County Commissioners Court has appointed Matthew Gonzales as the new Health Department Director. The decision was made on Feb. 25, and Gonzales officially assumed the position on Mar. 1.
This appointment follows the Commissioners Court’s decision to separate the Health Department from Countywide Operations during the drafting of the fiscal year 2025 budget. The change aligns Hays County with other county health departments in Texas, ensuring dedicated leadership and resources to address infectious disease prevention, emergency preparedness and community health needs like mental health services.
A Central Texas native, Gonzales grew up in Caldwell County and graduated from Lockhart ISD before earning a Bachelor of Public Administration (2021) and a Master of Healthcare Administration (2023) from Texas State University. Gonzales has been a dedicated public servant in Hays County since 2021.
“It’s an honor to step into this role at such a critical time for public health in Hays County,” Gonzales said. “With our growing population and evolving health challenges, my focus will be on expanding services, strengthening our department’s foundation and ensuring every resident has access to essential health resources. We’re building a healthier future for our community, and I’m excited to lead that effort.”
Gonzales has played a key role in major health initiatives, including the 2022 Monkeypox outbreak response and the 2023 Community Health Assessment. He was also instrumental in expanding staff and overseeing the department’s transition to a new facility.
As part of its ongoing community health efforts, the Hays County Health Department will host an MMR vaccine clinic on Monday, March 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. at 101 Thermon Drive, San Marcos. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to protect themselves and their families from measles, mumps and rubella.
