Support & Information Center

An Emergency Services District (ESD) is a local governmental entity created by voters to provide essential emergency services—such as fire protection and emergency medical services (EMS)—to residents in unincorporated areas outside of city limits.

An ESD ensures communities receive reliable emergency services by funding and managing fire protection and EMS operations. ESD 7 specifically contracts with the New Braunfels Fire Department to serve its district.

ESDs are created through a public election. Voters in an area outside city limits must approve the formation of an ESD to begin receiving enhanced emergency services funded through district-wide taxation.

ESDs are governed by a board of five commissioners. In the case of ESD 7, board members are appointed by the Comal County Commissioners Court. This board oversees operations, funding, and service contracts to ensure accountability and effectiveness.

ESDs are primarily funded through an ad valorem (property) tax—up to $0.10 per $100 of assessed property value. Some ESDs, including ESD 7, may also receive additional revenue from local sales and use taxes if approved by voters.

ESD boards typically meet monthly or quarterly, depending on district needs and ongoing projects. ESD 7 publishes meeting minutes to maintain transparency and inform the public.

ESDs may operate their own fire and EMS departments or contract services through local providers. ESD 7 contracts with the New Braunfels Fire Department to deliver emergency services to the unincorporated areas within its boundaries.