SDN: August 18, 2025

August 18, 2025

Guadalupe County Judge responds to VFD concerns

(Guadalupe County) -- Some members of the eight volunteer fire departments in Guadalupe County say they are frustrated after learning they will not receive the full amount of funding they had requested in the county’s proposed fiscal year 20252026 budget.

The proposed budget, which was recently with the county clerk and posted online for public viewing, comes with a proposed property tax rate increase -- the largest since 2012.

Commissioner Pct. 1 Jackie Ott and Commissioner Pct. 4 Stephen Germann were the only two to vote against the proposed increase to the tax rate, which passed 3-2. Both cited concerns about “inadequate funding” for public safety, including fire protection and law enforcement.

VFDs, pg. 2

VFDs, continued.

Further explaining the tax increase, which led to the decisions made in the budget was Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher. According to Kutscher, setting the proposed tax rate this week, effectively prevents the court from going up any higher until that tax rate is officially adopted on Sept. 2.

“For fiscal year ‘26, the county has proposed a tax rate of $0.3304 cents. That is an increase from the current tax rate of $0.3167 and just above the no new revenue rate of $0.3177. The no new revenue rate is the rate that it would take to bring in the same money as the previous year minus new property. So, with that proposed $0.3304 cent tax rate, it does represent a four percent increase,” said Kutscher.

The judge also defended his position on VFD funding, stressing that the budget already represents an increase from last year.

“We have supported the volunteer fire departments in addition to the municipal fire departments that we contract with for a long time as well as about four and five years ago, starting to fund the GCFR, the Guadalupe County Fire Rescue which is a fully funded, full-time professional fire service on the county side and it’s been a challenge for everybody. As I talked about development, activity and growth and changing – the amount of calls and needs for service, everybody has been impacted but for the volunteer fire departments, we have consistently increased their amount of funding year over year and I know some are frustrated at the amount but for a couple of fire departments as an example with the New Berlin Fire Department going from $89,000 to $105,000 represents about a 16.9 percent increase in the recommended budget as well as Lake Dunlap going from $60,025 to $84,000 and the recommended budget represents a 40 percent increase – and what has been pushed and requested by court members or a couple of commissioners as well as some of the VFD’s are 250-300 percent increases,” said Kutscher.

Kutscher added that the county not only funds the volunteer fire departments, but also supports the

Guadalupe County Rescue Service, a full-time paid program that helps cover emergency response needs between volunteer coverage.

“We’ve been focused on supporting those volunteer fire departments while also continuing with our planned approach to expanding the county paid fire staff because it’s just overwhelming for volunteer departments and it’s not their fault. They have done a great job but they have been set up to handle smaller areas, rural areas and smaller numbers of calls but the activity is necessitating the need for full-time paid staff and everybody has their own opinion and we understand that but we made a decision and are committed to fully putting as many resources as we can to keep people as safe as possible and that is putting the funds into full-time paid staff,” said Kutscher. On top of that, he says the county also provides other critical resources that aren’t always visible to the public, such as paying for radio communications services and other operational needs that keep departments running.

“This recommended budget for the fire departments would represent the first time that we paid volunteer fire departments more than the fulltime paid municipal fire contracts which include city of Seguin, city of Cibolo and city of Schertz, yet, we have those requests coming in saying that’s not good enough. You have to triple, quadruple our compensation. In addition to the contract payments that we give volunteer fire departments and we’ve increased every year. We’ve also, a few years ago, built out a $2 million radio and communications system that they were included in. We pay their monthly radio expenses of $20 per radio. We pay tower site licenses and leases for an old radio system that is only benefiting volunteer fire departments. We also pay for a radio patch at dispatch at the sheriff’s office to put that old system into use still for some of the volunteer fire departments. Two years ago, we funded $200,000 of grant funds through ARPA or America Rescue Plan Act Fund -- the county received straight to each individual volunteer fire department for the benefit of being able to buy additional new equipment – upgrades –VFDs, pg. 3

continued.

do whatever they need to and then Lake Dunlap who has been one of the most vocal about their wanting more funds, operates free of charge on a county owned piece of land,” said Kutscher.

Kutscher says these decisions are never easy, given the life-saving nature of the services involved and the fact that local VFDs are already struggling with various challenges -- including volunteer shortages and that’s all regardless of funding levels.

“Every fire department is different in its makeup, its location, its need and the way it’s managed and all of the above. It’s an ever-changing and challenging dynamic but long term, the solution is to continue to focus putting resources towards paid full-time staff because we are going to be so large that nothing else will be able to satisfy the need to keep the public safe. That’s what it boils down to,” said Kutscher.

During the meeting, Ott remained persistent in ensuring fire protection- even suggesting that the county pay the requested funds by utilizing its unassigned fund balance, which is reportedly at $45.6 million. She stated that even if the county accounted for three months of emergency operating funds, there would still be sufficient funds to give the VFD’s the money they need. She added that perhaps if past courts better funded their operations, then maybe their needs “wouldn’t have piled up” so high. Ott also felt that an increase in the tax rate was not warranted, suggesting that they were spending money on things that didn’t deserve the dollars.

As for Ott’s suggestion to dip into fund balance, Kutscher responded by saying that because of how the county receives its revenue late into the year, much of those dollars are utilized. He says, if they used those funds, they “would not be able to make payroll.” Despite the replenishment of fund balance over time, the judge says it puts the county in a very vulnerable position.

Among those leading the charge of publicly sharing their disappointment with the county is the Lake Dunlap Volunteer Fire Department. In a social media post this week, the fire department claimed the county’s proposed

funding levels could force them to close their doors.

The statement reads, “After months of meetings and discussions with county Judge Kyle Kutscher and several of the county Commissioners, Lake Dunlap Volunteer Fire Department had secured an agreement on a minimum level of funding for the 2025-2026 budget year. Unfortunately, when the proposed budget was released, we learned the County Judge had only included 16% of the total funding that was requested.”They go on to share that if Lake Dunlap VFD is forced to close its doors, then response times to fire and medical emergencies would double or triple. Property insurance, they also say, “would become much more expensive or even become impossible to get.”

The post continued by sharing that the Lake Dunlap Volunteer Fire Department sought funding of approximately $213,000 for the new budget. They say the amount is one percent of the county’s almost $200 million proposed budget.

Kutscher says operating the county in today’s climate comes with challenges, challenges that will become even harder for everyone if the right steps are not taken now.

“The market has definitely changed in the way that makes local government have to consider these types of changes to be able to provide necessary services. While we can’t control markets, and what appraisals are doing, and how much sales tax comes in. We also can’t really affect, with our limited authority at county government, how many subdivisions are built. We don’t get to choose whether we approve them or don’t approve them. We are the platting authority, but often times, the state gives a developer the upper hand and we are forced to approve some of those things. It gets into a place where we have to make all these proactive decisions, trying to be prepared for serving the public and providing law enforcement, fire and EMS, and roads, and drainage, and jails, and courts, and all of the important things that counties do. But we are affected like everybody else. When you see the expense of things in your life, -- well, we are seeing the same type of expenses at a county government level,” said Kutscher.

Again, the proposed budget can now be viewed online at guadalupetx.gov

High school football: Marion Bulldogs impress in first scrimmage under new coach Joel Call

(Marion) -- The Marion Bulldogs took the Hallettsville Brahmas by the horns in the first scrimmage of the 2025 season at Marion High School on Thursday.

The Bulldogs moved the ball efficiently on offense. Senior quarterback Kade Pape capped three Marion drives with a touchdown run and two TD passes. Pape hit fellow senior Jaiden Riley on a long pass for the second score. Riley outleapt two defenders to come down with the

pass at the 30-yard line and then outran the defense to the end zone.

Marion was active on the other side of the ball as well. The Bulldogs forced two fumbles on the first two drives of the practice game.

First-year Marion head coach Joel Call was happy with his team’s effort following the game. He says his players are building camaraderie as they prepare for the upcoming season.

“We’re just trying to keep everybody focused

on the same goal to be excited for the success of their teammates,” Call said. “In our society, the natural tendency is that everybody wants to get theirs, right? But if we’re excited for the success of their teammates, that’s part of that love factor. When you’re in your family, you’re in a unit, you want the people around you to have success.”

Marion will host Poth for a scrimmage next Thursday. The Bulldogs open the regular season at home on August 29th against Stockdale.

VITAL STATISTICS

Kornegay

Irene Brandenburg Kornegay

Irene Kornegay, a longtime resident of Seguin, TX, passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at the age of 99 in her home. She was born in Austin, TX on September 27, 1925 to Paul and Milda (Wissemann) Brandenburg.

Irene is preceded in death by her husband Duane Kornegay, her parents, her sister Alice Turner, and

Vaughn

Walter William “Trey” Vaughn, III, age 74, of Seguin, passed away on August 13, 2025. He was born on January 17, 1951, in Seguin, Texas, to Marceille “Marci” Anna Marie (Meyer) and Walter William Vaughn, Jr.

Trey was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be remembered for his kindness, wit, love for his family, good nature, and fun-loving attitude. He spent most of his life as a funeral director, where he was dedicated to serving and caring for families in their time of need. Trey had a quick smile, a warm handshake, and a gift for making people feel at ease.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his son, Lelon Vaughn; his daughter, Marci Russell, and her

her brothers William Brandenburg and Howard Brandenburg. She is survived by her dear friend and neighbor Joyce Trainer, her nieces Melanie Millsap and Sheila Schuetz, her nephews Barry Brandenburg, Scott Brandenburg, and Gordon Brandenburg, many great nieces and nephews, her step-granddaughter Charlene Kornegay, and her step-great grandson Elijah Kornegay.

Visitation will be Monday, August 25, 2025 at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Seguin, TX. Donations may be made to the First Baptist Church in Seguin or the charity of your choice.

Services are under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, Seguin, Texas.

husband Richard; his sisters, Brenda Vaughn and Sandra Thomas; as well as many other loving family members and friends.

Visitation will begin on Monday, August 18, 2025, at 5 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 6 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with Reverend Tom Jones officiating. Graveside services and interment will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Yorktown, Texas, on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.

For those who desire the services may be livestreamed at https://s3-us-east-2. amazonaws.com/mf-fwp/hewell/hewell_20250818.html .

This is a man who will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

STATISTICS

Ramon

www.SEGUINTODAY.com

David Viviano Ramon, age 38 of Seguin, passed away on August 5, 2025. David was Born August 12, 1986 in Austin, Texas to Irene (Arce) and Johnny Ramon.

David is preceded in death by his father, Johnny Juan Ramon; brothers, Johnny Ramon, Jr. and Gabriel A. Ramon.

Survivors include his loving mother Irene

Crees

Linda Kay Grossman Crees, age 82 of Seguin, passed away on August 5, 2025. Linda was born on January 12, 1943 in Hebbronville, Texas to Theresa (Baker) and Robert Anthony Grossman.

Linda was preceded in death by her son, Robert “Rob” Lester Dietrich, Jr., her parents, her brother, Robert Grossman, and her sisters, Theresa Fielder and Pam Farrington.

Survivors include her loving husband of 44

Ramon; brother, Jordan Ramon; sister, Sandy Jane Ramon; nephews Pedro Ramon, Logan Ramon, Luke Ramon, Eric Marmolejo and wife Sandra and Israel Arce, Jr.; nieces, Jenna Ramon, April Marmolejo, numerous other loving family members and friends.

Visitation will be at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m. with Deacon Nick Carrillo officiating.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

years, Charles “Chuck” Allyn Crees; sons, William Dietrich, and David Box and wife Cindy; step son, Sean Allyn Crees; brother, Stanley Grossman; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.

A private celebration of her life is being planned for a later date.

MOM WE WON!!!!!

Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, Inc., 1359 Broadway, STE 1509, New York, New York, 10018.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

Humans Impact On Drought-Inducing Climate Pattern

(Undated) -- Drought and ocean patterns are largely being driven by human activity. According to a new study published in Nature, greenhouse gas emissions generated by humans may have “locked in” a climate pattern responsible for long-term mega drought across the western U.S. Researchers found between 1870 and 1950, changes to the pattern, called Pacific decadal oscillationin, were predominantly fueled by internal forces, but that has been changing since the mid-20th century. Authors of the study hope to have water managers use their results to develop better water management programs.

Child Approved For Life-Saving Brain Surgery

(Hamburg, NY) -- An insurance company is reversing its claim denial for a young boy’s life-saving brain surgery. Cameron Casaacci was born in New York last September, but within hours of his birth he suffered “a very large stroke on the left side of his brain” which left him needing surgery. The family sought treatment with a recommended neurosurgeon in Pittsburgh, but New York State Medicaid’s Independent Health denied the procedure because it was out of network. After successfully pushing back, the six-hour surgery is now scheduled for August 20th, at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Children’s Hospital.

Weight Loss Drugs Could Be Associated With Eye Issues

(Undated) -- New research is showing certain weight loss drugs could be linked to eye related issues. A couple studies published in JAMA looks into Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound and the impact they have been having on eye health in Americans with type 2 diabetes. One study shows there’s modest risk in developing an eye condition that could result in vision loss. Another study showed an increased risk of other eye issues.

Mars Candy Without Synthetic Dyes Coming 2026

(Chicago, IL) -- Mars Wrigley is introducing candy without synthetic dyes next year. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has set out to get companies to drop artificial food dyes, and Mars was considered a holdout. According to the company, M&M’s, Skittles Original, Extra Gum Spearmint, and Starburst Original fruit chews will not include synthetic dyes and they’ll be available to purchase online throughout the U.S. Several food manufacturers, including General Mills, Pepsico, Tyson Foods, Hershey and more, have already announced plans to ditch synthetic colors.

August

Canned Good Drive to Support Flood Victims

Refuge III will be hosting a Canned Good Drive throughout the month of August to benefit flood victims. Donations can be dropped off at 7535 Elm Creek Rd. For more information or directions, contact Lorraine Davis at 210-548-8780.

Hermann Sons Dance Try-It Night in Seguin

The Hermann Sons Lodge Seguin will be hosting a Dance Try-It Night at 6:00 p.m. on August 18 at 2918 W. Kingsbury, Seguin. The event is open to all and does not require prior registration. A parent meeting will follow at 6:45 p.m. Participants should wear t-shirts and shorts if they do not have dancewear, and tennis shoes are required if ballet or jazz shoes are unavailable. Sandals, crocs, and bare feet are not allowed. For more information, contact Lori at 210-573-7796 or email hermannsonsdancesanantonio@ gmail.com.

Gabe Galvan Band

The Silver Center will be hosting Gabe Galvan Band at 7:30 p.m. on August 22nd at the Crystal Chandelier Ballroom. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Presale tickets are $10 by calling 830-303-6612. Tickets are $15 at the door.

Financial Health Class: “Lettuce” Talk About Money – August 26

The New Braunfels Food Bank in partnership with Credit Human will be hosting “Lettuce” Talk About Money, a free financial health class, at 9 a.m. on August 26. The class is designed to help participants

gain the confidence and skills to take control of their finances.

White-tailed Deer Management Symposium in San Antonio

The Bexar Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee will be hosting the White-tailed Deer Management Symposium at 9:00 a.m. on August 26 at 3355 Cherry Ridge Dr., Suite 208, San Antonio. The event will cover topics including basic deer habitat management, use of game cameras, and antler scoring. Presenters include specialists from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife. The cost is $15 per participant, payable in advance or at the door by cash, check, or credit card. To RSVP by August 22, contact Kennedy Green at 210-631-0400 or kennedy.green@ag.tamu.edu.

September

Goodbye Summer All Media Art Show at Seguin Art League

The Seguin Art League will be hosting the Goodbye Summer All Media Art Show submission drop-off from 10:00 a.m. to noon on August 30 at 104 S. Austin Street, Seguin. The show is open to all artists 18 and over, with an entry fee of $15 per artwork for members and $20 per artwork for non-members. A reception and award ceremony will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3. The exhibit will remain on display through October 11. Awards will be presented in photography, 2D, and 3D categories. For more details, visit seguinartleague.com or call 830-305-0472.

Financial Peace University Classes at Faith Lutheran Church

The Faith Lutheran Church will be hosting Financial Peace University classes at 4:00 p.m. on September 7 at 1326 E. Cedar, Seguin. The course, developed by financial expert Dave Ramsey, offers tools and strategies for effective money management. Special discounted pricing is available for the first 20 participants who register and pay. Childcare will be provided. For more information, call 830-379-7036.

Finding Perspective in Beginning Watercolors Class at Seguin Art League

The Seguin Art League will be hosting How to Find Perspective in your Beginning Watercolors at 1 p.m. on September 10 at the Seguin Art League. The class runs until 4 p.m. and will focus on creating a barn landscape while exploring perspective techniques and the use of resist. It is limited to five students, ages 18 and older, and costs $50 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit 104 S. Austin Street in Seguin.

Bimbo

The Silver Center will be hosting Bimbo at 7:30 p.m. on September 12th at the Crystal Chandelier Ballroom. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Presale tickets are $10 by calling 830303-6612. Tickets are $15 at the door.

To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@ kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.