Ruben Becerra
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Judge Becerra is a leader with strong ideals who works continuously to make a positive impact on the lives of Hays County residents.
Criminal Justice Commission
Becerra created a criminal justice commission that brought together leaders in law enforcement from around the county to discuss opportunities for improvement throughout the criminal justice system. Businesses and families see the devastating effects of a broken system firsthand. The goal of this commission was to start a great conversation centered around reducing recidivism, promoting successful reintegration into society, and protecting constitutional rights.
Mental Health Hospital Task Force
Judge Becerra believes mental health should be a primary focus. He established the Mental Health Hospital Task Force, which created the roadmap to bring a mental health hospital to Hays County with the goal of destigmatizing and addressing mental health issues. In December, he was able to get funding approved for a Needs Assessment to determine what services and the size of the wellness center needed in our county. This would support our healthcare system, our criminal justice system, economic development, and ultimately all residents in Hays County.
Public Defender's Office
With the creation of the Public Defender's Office, Becerra is focusing on safeguarding the rights of the accused and ensuring everyone has the right to counsel. Those who have been accused of victimless crimes could qualify for pretrial diversion programs, an easy place to start addressing overcrowding in our county's jail. $5 million have been allocated to the creation of a new Public Defenders Office. This program is well-supported, well-funded, and will be long-lasting.
Small Business COVID-19 Task Force
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Becerra established the Small Business COVID-19 Task Force to support and ensure protection for small business owners who were greatly affected by our shutdown. Judge Becerra believes small businesses are the foundation of our country, this task force is of great significance because it protects local communities and promotes economic security in our county. As the Director of Emergency Management, he led the initiative to bring COVID-19 tests to Hays County at beginning of the public health crisis because he understands the importance of putting you and your families' health and safety first.
Council for the Indigenous & Tejano Community
Judge Becerra created the Council for the Indigenous and Tejano Community to ensure the stories of the underrepresented have an active voice in our community. The Council's mission is to relay, in public places, the multitude of under-told and untold stories of the Indigenous and Tejano People of Hays County, while also preserving the history, traditions, and rich culture of our community.
Pet Resource Center
As we plan the future of our entire community, and for animal welfare, we must recognize the interconnectedness of animal services and human services. Hays County residents demand more community engagement and effective solutions, and our pet lovers expect more lifesaving programs. A Pet Resource Center will keep people and their pets together by providing pet retention assistance, veterinary services, and shelter diversion. Thank you to Sharri Boyett for being the community liaison for the County Judge's Office and such a strong animal advocate.
Constitutional Rights & Humane Treatment
Judge Ruben Becerra consistently fights to ensure Hays County government upholds constitutional principles and treats all people with dignity and humanity. He believes due process, equal protection, and respect for individual rights must guide decision-making at every level of local government—especially when issues involve vulnerable populations. Through his leadership, Hays County has clearly affirmed its commitment to these values, reinforcing that constitutional rights are not situational, but foundational. Judge Becerra approaches this work with the understanding that strong communities are built when government acts lawfully, fairly, and with compassion.
Civil Liberties & Responsible Use of Technology
Judge Ruben Becerra has taken a firm stand for civil liberties by pushing back against the use of surveillance technology that lacked sufficient privacy protections, oversight, and accountability. He fought to remove Flock Safety cameras from county use, raising concerns about data collection, long-term storage, and the potential erosion of public trust. Judge Becerra believes public safety must be balanced with transparency and respect for personal freedoms, and that new technologies should never outpace the safeguards meant to protect residents. His leadership reflects a commitment to ethical governance and the protection of individual rights in Hays County.
Fiscal Responsibility & Strategic Budgeting
Judge Becerra leads Hays County with a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility and disciplined budgeting. Under his leadership, the county has maintained the lowest tax rate during his tenure as County Judge, reflecting his priority of protecting working families and respecting taxpayer dollars. He believes county government must live within its means while still delivering essential services. Every budget decision is guided by accountability, long-term planning, and the understanding that public funds should support families not burden them.
Emergency Management & Disaster Preparedness
As Hays County’s Director of Emergency Management, Judge Becerra has worked to strengthen coordination among county departments, cities, first responders, and regional partners. His leadership focuses on preparedness, clear communication, and rapid response during emergencies to ensure residents’ safety and minimize disruption to daily life.
Transparency & Open Government
Judge Becerra is committed to transparent, accessible government. He supports open meetings, clear communication, and public engagement so residents can understand how decisions are made and how county resources are used. He believes trust in government is built when residents are informed, heard, and treated as partners in the process.
Community Engagement & Inclusive Leadership
Judge Becerra actively engages residents, community leaders, and stakeholders across Hays County to ensure county government reflects the voices of those it serves. He values collaboration and believes inclusive leadership leads to better outcomes, stronger policies, and a more responsive county government.
Jail Overcrowding & Systemic Reform
Judge Becerra has prioritized reducing jail overcrowding through data-driven policies and system-wide reform. By supporting diversion programs, expanded public defense, and alternatives to unnecessary incarceration, he works to improve public safety while reducing costs and ensuring fair treatment within the justice system.
Support for Vulnerable Populations
Judge Becerra consistently advocates for policies that protect and support vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing mental health crises, low-income families, and those involved in the justice system. He believes county government has a responsibility to act with compassion, fairness, and practicality when serving those most in need.