The Lead Live Podcast: Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025

The Sept. 4 episode of “The Lead Live,” hosted by Louis Amestoy, featured discussions on flood recovery efforts, economic development, and community events in Kerrville.

Broadcast from the Peterson Health Digital Studio at Pint and Plow Brewing Co., the episode included appearances by Kelly Hagemeier, Kerrville’s Economic Development Manager; Stacie Leporati, Executive Director of Arcadia Live; and Kerr County Precinct 1 Commissioner Tom Jones. The broadcast took place two months after the Independence Day flood disaster.

Amestoy opened the show by addressing new legislation concerning camps in flood-prone areas and the extension of the FEMA individual assistance registration deadline for Texans affected by the July 4 flooding to Sept. 28. He also noted the approval of $5 million for the Texas Micro Business Disaster Recovery Loan Program and $1.9 million in grant funding for area hospitals. Amestoy proudly announced the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville was named the No. 1 Western art museum in America by True West Magazine.

Hagemeier discussed the extension for FEMA and Small Business Administration applications, acknowledging difficulties due to fraudulent submissions. She confirmed a $5 million microloan program from the governor’s office and announced an exterior enhancement grant program for businesses, offering up to $5,000 for improvements starting in October. Hagemeier emphasized the community-led recovery.

Leporati outlined Arcadia Live’s upcoming schedule, including “Three of a Kind” free music events, showings of “Field of Dreams” and “Holes,” and a performance by Shiny Ribs with free admission for volunteer emergency service personnel. She also mentioned “Ker Kids,” a new nonprofit for children’s activities, and Arcadia Live taking over the Hill Country Golf Classic.

Commissioner Jones expressed gratitude for flood assistance, confirming his continued work at the Emergency Operations Center. He stated the county’s primary concern is tax revenue and emphasized the collaborative relationship between the city and county in recovery efforts. Jones noted that the county’s debris removal project, initially estimated at $30 million, is largely covered by state and federal assistance, significantly reducing local costs. He anticipated the recovery process would take another three to five years.