Bexar County Issues Disaster Declaration

On Tuesday, April 12, 2022, Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff issued a disaster declaration effective immediately to address the ongoing, dangerous fire conditions in our county. In consultation with the Bexar County Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Coordinator Chris Lopez, it was decided to take this extra step to enhance protection for residents and their properties.

Fire Marshal Chris Lopez said, “In order to issue a burn ban, we have to reach a specific drought level index. Once that condition is met, we have to present the burn ban proclamation to Commissioners Court for approval.” In recognition of the recent spike in wildfires and the ongoing environmental conditions, he added, “We came to recognize that appeals and recommendations are no longer enough.”

Bexar County has not had significant rainfall for an extended period and weather forecasters expect little change for the near future. The magnitude of potential damage and the rapid spread of brush fires in recent weeks here and in neighboring counties has only amplified the need for more assertive action.

Judge Wolff addressed the potential for major disaster saying, “We cannot sit idly by and hope that everybody does their part. With conditions like this, we had to step in and do everything within our means to minimize the fire danger.”

The declaration includes a ban on the practice of outdoor burning. The declaration and ban will stay in effect through April 19, 2022, which is the next scheduled meeting for the Bexar County Commissioners Court. The Fire Marshal will recommend to the full Commissioners Court to enact a burn ban at that time.

Violations of the disaster declaration and its stipulations is punishable by a fine not to exceed $1,000.

*A copy of this press release and the disaster declaration can also be viewed and/or downloaded at https://www.bexar.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/4872 .