Interim Brazos County Judge Is Appointed

This podcast contains comments from interim Brazos County Judge and retired state representative Kyle Kacal, visiting with WTAW's Bill Oliver on June 29, 2025.Brazos County judge Duane Peters, who will miss his fifth consecutive meeting Tuesday (July 1) due to undisclosed health issues, has appointed someone to serve in his absence.Getting the call last Saturday (June 28) was retired state representative Kyle Kacal.Kacal told WTAW News he is "glad to help a gentleman and a statesman that I truly believe in (to) help continue his legacy."Kacal also he did not hesitate to say yes to Peters request, "not when a good man asks you to step up and I am (a) proud citizen of Brazos County and this is our home and glad to serve when the opportunity is there."He agreed with the observation that his role is to "do what's right for the citizens of Brazos County. I believe the commissioners court is in very capable hands with four outstanding commissioners. And I look forward to working with them to make Brazos County a better place to live."Kacal will joined Fred Brown as retired state lawmakers on the commissioners court.A statement released by Brazos County says Peters "is confident he (Kacal) will do an excellent job in his absence."Peters continues to ask for privacy and he appreciates the prayers during his recovery.Brazos County general counsel Bruce Erratt says the appointment is until the judge returns or the end of the term, whichever occurs first.Erratt also says the county has to get bonds issued for Kacal before he is sworn in into office. That means Kacal will not be chairing Tuesday's (July 1) meeting.Statement released by Brazos County from county judge Duane Peters:On Sunday, June 29, 2025, Brazos County Judge Duane Peters appointed former Texas State Representative Kyle Kacal as Brazos County Judge, to serve during his absence while he recovers from health issues.This appointment is considered temporary and will continue until Judge Peters returns.Judge Peters is delighted that Former Representative Kacal has agreed to serve the citizens of Brazos County in this capacity and is confident he will do an excellent job in his absence.Judge Peters and his family also appreciate the concern and prayers during this time of recovery and, although he expects to be back at work in the near future, he does ask for continued privacy during this time.Statement released by Brazos County from Kyle Kacal:“I am humbled and appreciative of Judge Peters’ request for me to serve as County Judge in his absence.  He is a longtime, highly respected friend and I do not take this appointment lightly.  Once my bond is approved by Commissioners Court and I am sworn-in to office, I will begin official duties as County Judge.  Until then, I’m meeting with elected officials and department heads to gather as much information as possible.I am a public servant honored to answer a call to serve the residents of Brazos County once again and will do so as long as I am needed.”