Category: Business

Local business news, openings, and economic updates

  • Kerrville ISD Reports Record Enrollment for Upcoming School Year

    Kerrville Independent School District is preparing for its largest student body in over a decade, with early enrollment numbers for the 2026-2027 school year showing a 6.2 percent increase over current figures, Superintendent Dr. Rachel Hernandez announced at Monday’s school board meeting.

    The district expects to serve approximately 5,800 students next fall, up from 5,460 this year. The growth is attributed to new housing developments in the area and an influx of families drawn to the Hill Country’s quality of life and relatively affordable cost of living.

    “This is a wonderful challenge to have,” Dr. Hernandez said. “Growing enrollment means our community is thriving. We’re working diligently to ensure we have the staff, facilities, and resources to give every student the education they deserve.”

    The board approved the hiring of 22 additional teachers and support staff and is exploring options for portable classroom units at Tom Daniels Elementary, which is expected to see the largest enrollment increase.

  • New Craft Brewery Set to Open on Water Street This Summer

    Kerrville’s growing food and drink scene is about to get a new addition. Hill Country Brewing Co., a craft brewery and taproom, plans to open its doors at 412 Water Street in early June, bringing locally brewed beer and a family-friendly atmosphere to the downtown riverfront area.

    Owners Mark and Jennifer Chen, who relocated to Kerrville from Austin two years ago, have spent the past year renovating the former warehouse space into a 3,500-square-foot brewery with an outdoor patio overlooking the Guadalupe River.

    “We fell in love with Kerrville the first time we visited,” said Mark Chen. “The river, the people, the pace of life — it just felt right. We wanted to create a place where the community can come together over great local beer.”

    The brewery will feature six rotating taps, with plans to expand to twelve within the first year. Opening day will feature live music, food trucks, and brewery tours. The Chens said they plan to hire 8-10 local employees.