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About New Braunfels

Since 1845, the City of New Braunfels has provided a unique and diverse quality of life for its residents, visitors, and business community. Known for its German and Hispanic heritages, New Braunfels covers roughly 45 square miles, has a growing population nearing 100,000, and has been named one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation while also being named one of the best 50 places to live in the United States.

Nestled at the edge of the Texas Hill Country, New Braunfels is conveniently located between the San Antonio and Austin metro areas along the I-35 corridor. Two idyllic rivers, the Comal and the Guadalupe, run through the heart of New Braunfels, which is also just a short drive from the boating and fishing offered at Canyon Lake. The city features 41 local parks, including the 62-acre Fischer Park overlooking the city and the 51-acre Landa Park, located within walking distance of New Braunfels’ historic downtown area.

New Braunfels is also home to the world-famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Texas’ oldest dancehall, Gruene Hall, Texas’ oldest bakery, Naeglin’s Bakery, the 10-day salute to sausage known as Wurstfest, the nearby Natural Bridge Caverns & Wildlife Ranch, and the Texas Ski Ranch.

Two highly-rated local school districts, Comal ISD and New Braunfels ISD, along with several private and charter schools, provide education services, and the city offers a diverse range of business and employment opportunities.

City Council

The New Braunfels City Council consists of a mayor and six members. They are responsible for enacting ordinances, resolutions, and regulations governing the City. The mayor and council members are elected and serve three-year terms. The council members are elected by district, and the mayor is elected at large. The City Council is responsible for reviewing and approving the city’s budget and for helping to develop policies that guide the city’s operations and priorities. The City Manager is appointed by the City Council and is responsible for executing the laws and administering the city government.

The Council conducts public meetings that allow the residents to participate in discussions and provide feedback on various issues that are affecting the community. These meetings are held at City Hall or any other public place designated by the City Council. They meet regularly, at least once every month, and special meetings may be held on the call of the mayor or four members and must provide no less than twelve hours' notice to each member. All meetings shall be open to the public except for closed and/or executive meetings and sessions as provided and authorized by the statutes of the State of Texas. Recordings of meetings are available for viewing for a period of not less than 365 days after the meeting is posted.