HCA launches Leadership Institute

The Hill Country Alliance on Jan. 22 launched its 2026 Hill Country Leadership Institute at Bamberger Ranch Preserve near Blanco, beginning a 10-month program focused on planning and natural resource management for local officials across the Texas Hill Country.

The institute, now in its fourth year, has brought together approximately 60 leaders representing communities in 15 counties. Participants include elected officials and key staff from city and county governments and groundwater conservation districts.

Former Hays County Commissioner and institute alum Lon Shell said the preserve was a fitting location to begin the program, noting the connection between land conservation and the long-term impacts of public service.