Burn Ban Lifted, Fireworks Still in Play For Fourth of July Celebration

With the Fourth of July fast approaching, Kinney County residents are eagerly anticipating a return to fireworks and festivities. Thanks to recent decisions at the county level, the skies over Fort Clark Springs may once again light up in celebration of our nation’s independence.  On June 2, 2025, Kinney County Judge John Paul Schuster lifted the county-wide burn ban, reminding residents to exercise caution. “Please use caution and stay present during the trash burn,” he wrote on Facebook. “No brush piles started after 2:00 in the afternoon. Still want all fires to be burned out or down to no flames before dark.”  Following that action, the Commissioners Court voted on June 9 to decline a proposed order that would have restricted certain types of fireworks in the unincorporated areas of the county. This means both burning and fireworks are currently permitted—a rare reprieve for a region often grappling with fire risk during dry summer months.

  One of the county’s main Independence Day events will be held in Fort Clark Springs, a private residential and recreational community. The Fort Clark Springs Association has invited Brackettville Mayor, Miguel Aguirre, to attend and offer a welcoming address to members as part of the evening’s fireworks celebration and festivities.  It’s exciting news for many who recall the disappointment of last year’s cancellations due to drought conditions. This year’s green light is bringing a renewed energy and enthusiasm to the community.  Fourth of July celebrations are deeply meaningful in Kinney County. They bring neighbors together, boost local morale, and remind us of the freedoms we cherish. But celebration and caution must go hand-in-hand, especially when dealing with fire in a rural area with limited resources. As the community gathers this Independence Day, residents are encouraged to enjoy the festivities while remaining vigilant and taking personal responsibility for fire safety. That includes properly supervising any outdoor burns, keeping water sources nearby, and following all state laws and best practices regarding fireworks. After all, the best way to honor freedom is by protecting the people and places that make our community special.