Comal Iron & Metals named a Texas Treasure Business

Comal Iron & Metals, a recycler of ferrous and nonferrous metals based in New Braunfels, Texas, has been recognized as a Texas Treasure Business by the Texas Historical Commission.

With its awards, the commission honors businesses that have provided exceptional service to their communities for 50 years or more.

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“It’s a meaningful recognition of our deep roots in New Braunfels and our continued commitment to Texas values,” says Comal CEO Marcie Rodriguez in an award announcement. “For over five decades, we’ve proudly stewarded the environment while contributing to the growth and strength of the New Braunfels economy.”

The company, named after its home in Comal County, was founded by Pasqual Rodriguez in 1969 and has remained a family-owned and -operated company ever since. The third generation of the Rodriguez family, including Director of Operations Roger Rodriguez, Director of Safety and Compliance James “Dude” Hunter, Director of Business Development Katarina Huerta-Orona and Marcie Rodriguez, Roger’s wife, comprise Comal’s leadership, while Roger’s brother, Johnnie Rodriguez Jr., serves as its nonferrous warehouse manager.

Comal, which celebrated its 55th anniversary in 2024, has opened its doors to the New Braunfels community and is an active participant in community events. In an August 2024, interview with Recycling Today, Marcie said the company has spearheaded charitable giving and fundraisers for the public and takes part in events such as local trunk-or-treats and school dances, among others, while engaging in recycling education.

“I think what we do is not in a bubble, and I think it’s about knowing that if you constrain [the recycled materials industry], it won’t grow,” she said. “It is my belief that we are part of the flow [of material], and what we do is metal recycling. We are meant to be a part of the flow, and it’s not meant to stay in our gates. The gates are there [at the facility] because we’re supposed to have them, but it’s not to keep people out.”

The company operates on 4 1/2 acres and processes all types of ferrous and nonferrous metals from industrial and commercial clients as well as the general public.

“The thing that really sets us apart is our customer service—to be able to know our customers,” Marcie said. “The employees know [who customers are] as they’re coming through the gates. … [We say] let’s take care of them.”