The Lead Live Podcast: April 3, 2025 episode

During the April 3 broadcast of “The Lead Live,” Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice announced the hiring of Jay Brimhall as the new Parks and Recreation Director, who comes from Show Low, Arizona. Rice also introduced Diane Miller as the new director of the Butt-Holdsworth Memorial Library, succeeding Daniele Brigati.

Miller acknowledged the “big shoes to fill” following Brigati’s departure. Miller praised the library staff’s dedication and mentioned completing a state report that provided valuable context compared to other library operations. Miller recounted her professional background, including time spent in Dallas, Miami, Chicago, and San Francisco before arriving in Kerrville. 

Miller identified adapting the physical space to meet community priorities as the library’s biggest challenge. Miller noted e-content usage stands around 25-30% and highlighted the library’s role as a community space. Upcoming library events include the summer reading kickoff on May 31, a big truck story time on May 3, and a small exhibit about the 75th anniversary of Louis Hayes Park opening on April 12.

Maggie Magee and John Anderson promoted Sunday’s event celebrating the Guadalupe River Center on “The Lead Live.” Anderson stated they purchased their site and are in the second phase of development, building a “boat house” to support teaching and water activities. The estimated cost for this first building is $2 million, and they are currently over 20% funded. Magee emphasized the River Center will provide public access to the river for non-motorized water activities. 

Anderson envisioned the River Center as a community gathering place integrated with Granger McDonald Park, offering various river-related experiences. Magee detailed the celebration event happening this Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. at the landing on Lake Nimitz, describing it as free, family-friendly fun. Activities include a Kids Zone, food trucks, entertainment by DJ St. Spicer and the Symphony of the Hills brass quartet, walking tours led by Anderson and Peter Lewis, and prize giveaways. Anderson announced an informational meeting on April 11 for those interested in sea scouting or power squadron development.