Nicholas "Nico" Costilla for Hays County Clerk

 About Me

I am a life-long resident of San Marcos and a proud graduate of both San Marcos High School and Texas State University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology. Hays County has always been my home, and the people here have shaped my values, my work ethic, and my commitment to public service.

Since 2014, I have worked in the Hays County District Attorney’s Office, serving in a variety of administrative and supervisory positions. I currently serve as the Misdemeanor Division Legal Assistant Supervisor, overseeing case management operations, supporting prosecutors and staff, and helping make sure our justice system runs efficiently, responsibly, and with the highest standards of accuracy.

My professional experience has given me a deep understanding of county operations, records management, and the importance of accessible, transparent public service — all of which I intend to bring to the role of Hays County Clerk.

Why I am Running:

I’m running for Hays County Clerk because every resident deserves an office that is accessible, efficient, transparent, and focused on serving people with fairness and respect. When members of our community interact with the County Clerk’s Office — whether they are filing vital records, navigating court documents, or requesting public information — the process should be clear, timely, and handled with care.

For the past 11 years, I have worked at the Hays County Criminal District Attorney’s Office, including 9 years as the Misdemeanor Division Legal Assistant Supervisor. This experience has given me a deep understanding of county records, case management, and the importance of accuracy, timeliness, and professionalism. I’ve seen how essential a well-run office is to keeping our justice system moving and to ensuring people receive the services they depend on.

My commitment to public service also extends beyond my professional work. Since 2017, I have been actively involved in community, civic, and professional organizations throughout Hays County. Serving on boards, commissions, and local groups has taught me the value of showing up, listening, and working together to strengthen our community. These experiences have shaped me into a patient, compassionate, and attentive leader — qualities I believe are essential for the Office of the County Clerk.

I’m running because I believe the Clerk’s Office should reflect the best of Hays County: efficient, transparent, people-focused, and rooted in integrity. I am committed to modernizing systems, improving accessibility, and ensuring that every resident is treated fairly and respectfully.

At its heart, my campaign is about service — serving the public, serving our community, and ensuring that the Clerk’s Office truly works for everyone.

Duties of County Clerk

• Maintaining & preserving official county records, including real property records, deeds, liens, plats, and marriage licenses.

• Overseeing vital records, such as birth certificates, death certificates, marriage records, and assumed business names (DBAs).

• Serving as the clerk for the County Courts, including managing court files, processing legal documents, and maintaining court dockets for civil, probate, and misdemeanor cases.

• Issuing a variety of licenses and filings, including marriage licenses, DBA filings, brand registrations, and more.

• Managing public access to records, ensuring documents are available, searchable, and accessible to residents while protecting confidential information.

• Maintaining the integrity of the county’s historical archives, preserving essential legal and historical documents.

• Supporting county government transparency, including responding to public information requests in accordance with Texas law.

• Overseeing office operations, including staff management, budgeting, technology systems, and customer service standards to ensure efficient and respectful service to the public.

• Ensuring compliance with state law, procedural rules, and records retention schedules.

• Providing customer-focused service, assisting residents, legal professionals, businesses, and local agencies with accurate and timely documentation.

Volunteerism

• Texas State University Alumni Association Board of Directors 2017-Present

• Centro Cultural Hispano de San Marcos Member 2018-Present

• La Sociedad Cuauhtemoc Member 2017-Present

• San Marcos Police Department Chief’s Community Advisory Panel 2020-Present

• San Marcos Police Community and Police Association 2017-Present

• Hays County Crime Stoppers Criminal Justice Advocate, Hays County District Attorney's Office 2022-Present

• Hays County Citizens Sheriff's Academy Alumni Association 2022-Present

• Hays County Bar Association 2019-Present

• Scheib Mental Heath Center Board of Directors 2020-Present

• City of San Marcos Zoning Board of Adjustments Commission 2018-2023

• Hays County Historical Commission 2023-Present