This series provides readers with the opportunity to learn about the unique insights and experiences of the San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) Board of Directors and their personal connection to the San Antonio River in hopes of inspiring stewardship of area creeks and rivers. In this edition, we sat down with the Chairman of the Board, Derek Gaudlitz.
What are your goals and top priorities as a board member in 2026?
For 2026, my central goal is to champion the upcoming flood awareness and safety campaign. This initiative supports the Bexar Regional Watershed Management’s ambition of zero lives lost during flood events. Through the expansion of the NextGen Flood Warning System across all four counties, we are strengthening our commitment to public safety. Additionally, the River Authority is advancing the next phase of flood modeling in Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad for FEMA, ensuring our communities are better prepared for the future. Lastly, I look forward to seeing the ongoing efforts to enhance parks and River Walk frontage up to the headwaters of the San Antonio River, which reflects our dedication to livability and recreation.
The River Authority has had several signature events this spring in the Southern Basin. Is there one you would like to highlight?
Every spring, the River Authority, in partnership with Wilson County, hosts a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event. This past event, with over 560 residents participating, we made significant strides in keeping our river clean and safe.
As Fiesta approaches, we’re excited to celebrate the river and join citywide festivities. Each event we participate in is an opportunity to spread awareness about our mission and promote our “Litter is Ugly” initiative, reinforcing the importance of a clean environment for everyone.
What is one daily action we can take to keep the San Antonio River safe, clean, and enjoyable for all?
Protecting the San Antonio River starts with individual actions. Taking a few extra moments to dispose of trash properly ensures it doesn’t end up in our creeks and rivers. Small steps by many can have a profound impact on the health of our waterways.
What past or current River Authority project are you most proud of/looking forward to?
I am most proud of the River Authority taking oversight of all the flood gauges in Bexar County. Ensuring these systems function optimally and adding barriers where needed are direct steps to prevent future tragedies, like the ones we experienced last summer. Our ability to coordinate with Bexar County and the City of San Antonio, and to expand these partnerships into Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad counties, is central to our strategic plan. By uniting our efforts, we’re working on the most impactful projects to safeguard the quality of life and infrastructure for all residents.
What is a bold vision for the future of the organization, and how can we achieve it?
Our Board’s shared vision for the future is to create a continuous walking path from the headwaters to the southern counties. We are nearing this milestone in Bexar County, with the next phase focusing on connecting through Brackenridge Park. Once complete, residents and visitors will enjoy a seamless path from the headwaters to the Mission Reach.
This month we recognized National Flood Awareness Week. Would you like to share info on the new websites for the Southern Basin and flood efforts?
In recognition of National Flood Awareness Week, I’m pleased to announce the launch of new flood awareness websites for each county in our jurisdiction. These platforms enable residents to subscribe to flood gauge alerts. In times of flooding, drivers will receive timely warnings through navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze, helping to save lives.
About Derek Gaudlitz, Chairman of the Board, Wilson County
Derek Gaudlitz of Floresville is the owner and CEO of Freedom Mowing LLC. He is a member of the Military Officers Association of America, Floresville Chamber of Commerce, and Past Commander of the American Legion Post 38. He served in the U.S. Army for over 20 years upon his retirement in 2014. Gaudlitz received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University.
