Former Comal County Tax Assessor-Collector Kristen Hoyt was sworn in as interim county judge today by 274th Judicial District Judge Gary Steel after county commissioners emerged from behind a closed-door executive session and voted unanimously to approve her appointment.
She replaces Judge Sherman Krause, who served 16 years as county judge before dying unexpectedly Feb. 3. Hoyt beat Kayne Parrish in the March 3 Republican Primary race for county judge, winning 67% of the vote.
She’s running unopposed in the Nov. 3 midterm election and will be sworn in on Jan. 1, 2027.
As commissioners wrapped up their weekly meeting, interim County Judge and Pct. 2 Commissioner Scott Haag wept after commissioners approved a motion by Pct. 3 Commissioner Kevin Webb to appoint Hoyt.
“This has been a very difficult process, Judge Krause meant a lot to all of us,” Webb told Haag, who is stepping down. “I can’t thank you enough.”
In a statement released by county spokesperson Cary Zayas today, Hoyt promised to honor Krause’s legacy by serving with the same humility and care he demonstrated throughout his career in public service.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me,” she said. “I do not take it lightly, and I will not let you down. While this election delivered a clear mandate, I want to be equally clear about something else. I will serve as county judge for every citizen of Comal County. The office belongs to the people, and I intend to honor that.”
(Editor’s Note: This story was updated on March 6.)
We are so fortunate to have Kristen Hoyt in
her new position. She is absolutely more
than qualified, I have had the opportunity to
have her help solve issues I had while she was
in her tax office. She has worked so hard and
is brilliant and highly effective and if you have
had a chance to read her resume you already
know she comes into office very prepared to
take on her new responsibilities!!!!