Brewster County, Alpine move to enshrine dark‑sky rules and market the region as a dark‑sky capital

Brewster County Commissioners and the Alpine City Council reviewed updates to local dark‑sky regulations and a community‑branding proposal at a joint workshop on Sept. 30, 2025.

County Judge Greg P. Henington opened the meeting and framed the discussion around upcoming regulatory changes and tourism opportunities tied to dark‑sky protections. Officials recorded that a Dark Sky Resolution is scheduled to take effect in May 2026 and that Jeff Davis, Presidio and Brewster counties will jointly hold the title “The Dark Sky Capital of Texas.”

Several members of the public urged the court and council to promote the region’s night‑sky quality while also highlighting other local assets. Martin Benevich, owner of KVLF/KALP radio, said the branding effort should avoid focusing only on darkness and suggested the slogan, “Brewster County: we have room for you, but maybe not your friends.” Randall Kinzie, a Fort Davis resident and owner of Wild Yeti Films, told officials he has promoted dark‑sky protections since 2018. Bryan Devonshire of Astro Mucho, LLC suggested placing signage in Van Horn to promote scenic views toward San Antonio and referenced a “26 miles difference” (the minutes do not further specify that distance).

Curtis Even, identified in the minutes as the Fort Davis county judge, urged coordination among the three counties and said the McDonald Observatory is a key partner in efforts to reduce light pollution. The court discussed preparing regulatory updates before the 2026 grace‑period deadline and aligning city and county branding to attract visitors and stargazing tourism.

Officials did not adopt a final ordinance or vote on the branding package at the workshop; the record shows the matter remains under discussion and that county and city leaders will continue work on the proposals.

The meeting adjourned after a 5–0 vote to approve the motion to adjourn.