SDN: Febraury 25, 2026

February 25, 2026

Guadalupe County Commissioners decline tax abatement for $10B data center project

(Seguin) -- There will not be a new data center built in Guadalupe County—at least not yet.

The Guadalupe County Commissioners Court voted 3-2 on Tuesday to decline a tax abatement agreement with the company CloudBurst, which plans to build data center complex valued at more than $10 billion.

The Cloudburst campus would have been built in phases, with the initial phase starting by the end of the year. It includes plans for 10-12 AIReady buildings totaling approximately three million square feet. The location would be built off of State Highway 123 in northern Guadalupe County.

CloudBurst

Cofounder Cynthia Thompson says the facility would generate 480

permanent jobs by year six.

“Job creation, so again there’s telecommunications jobs, construction, power and infrastructure jobs, and technology and manufacturing. For every job we create, we create 6.4 indirect jobs for every dollar of direct income we generate, 3.3 dollars of labor and income locally.

So again, four-hundred and eighty jobs - a total of sixhundred when built,” said Thompson.

The 10-year tax break called for an abatement of 90 percent of all county taxes in years one through five. It would reduce by 10 percentage points each year after then dropping down to 40 percent in year 10. The full appraised taxable value would be owed starting in year 11.

Project, pg. 3

Man’s use of Snapchat lands him behind bars

(Comal County) -- A Guadalupe County man will spend the rest of his life in prison after a Comal County jury convicted him on numerous child sexual exploitation charges and sentenced him to 14 life terms plus an additional 100 years.

Forty-two-year-old Jarrod Gaines Kirkus of Marion was found guilty on 19 counts, including trafficking of a child, sexual assault of a child, possession with intent to promote child pornography and online solicitation of a minor. He also pleaded guilty to additional possession charges.

State District Judge Bruce Boyer, who presided over the trial, called the circumstances behind the charges “disgusting” before ordering 18 of the 19 convictions to run consecutively. The stacked sentences ensure Kirkus will never be eligible for release.

The most recent investigation began in 2023 when a mother contacted the Comal County Sheriff’s Office after her teenage daughter entered

a vehicle with a man she had been communicating with on Snapchat.

That’s when detectives say they were able to identify him as Kirkus.

Investigators testified that Kirkus falsely portrayed himself as an orthodontist while communicating with the teen. Authorities said he met with her multiple times and recorded some of the encounters.

During an interview with

detectives, Kirkus admitted he was attracted to children and acknowledged sending explicit images to girls on social media. Investigators also testified that he failed to properly register required online identifiers as a sex offender, telling detectives it was “a hassle.”

During the punishment phase, jurors also learned Kirkus had previously been convicted in 2005 in Bexar County for sexual assault, solicitation of a minor and possession of child pornography.

Officers with the San Antonio Police Department testified about an undercover operation in which Kirkus attempted to meet individuals he believed were a mother and a 13-yearold girl. A victim from the earlier case also addressed the court, describing the lasting impact of the abuse.

Prosecutors also presented evidence tied to another victim in Live Oak after detectives extracted videos from Kirkus’ phone during the 2023 investigation.

Voters encouraged to flip through KWED Candidates Corner

(Seguin) -- Don’t know who to vote for in the various Guadalupe County races?

KWED Radio and the Seguin Daily News remain committed to making things easier for voters to get informed before heading to the polls.

Folks still have access to The KWED Candidates Corner Voter Guide. The guide is still available online, featuring every candidate

appearing on the March 3 Republican ballot in Guadalupe County.

The guide also includes information on three uncontested races, ensuring voters have a complete look at all the contests they will see on their ballot.

As part of the Candidates Corner series, KWED asked each candidate a series of questions about their background, priorities and positions on key issues. The goal is to

give voters the opportunity to match a face with a platform and better understand where each candidate stands.

The voter guide continues to be available in each online edition of the Seguin Daily News and is being shared on KWED and Seguin Daily News social media pages.

The KWED Candidates Corner Voter Guide can be accessed at seguintoday.com

Project, continued.

The property, located in Precinct 2, would also be located in the Navarro ISD and the school district would reap the benefits of the windfall of new taxes when the improvements first get made.

Prior to their vote, the court was able to hear from a handful of residents who were concerned with the county entering into this partnership. Most of those concerns dealt with the water usage that such centers have been known to use in their operations across the country.

Others raised concerns about extending an abatement to a company that no matter what, would still likely operate in the county anyway. Others also shared their concerns regarding environmental impacts such as noise, pollution and power. Nearly 15 people were on hand to address the court.

Although not in her precinct, Kingsbury resident Jessica Gardner says there are just too many questions especially when it comes to water.

“I really don’t understand how giving a data center tax abatement benefits the general population of Guadalupe County. I am really concerned about the amount of water that this is going to take up. I understand that Crystal Clear is the water provider, and Crystal Clear already struggles quite a bit. And we’ve been in a drought for quite a while. So I really don’t want a data center at all. I’ve heard it drives down property values around it. You know, Kingsbury isn’t that close to where this is going to be, so I’m glad for myself, but I’m upset for the people who will be near it. I think that’s about it, but please don’t give them tax abatement. I don’t like that at all,” said Gardner.

According to CloudBurst, the data center would use what is known as a Closed-Loop Water Colling System which will allow up to 660,000 gallons of water per building. They say water can be sourced commercial when needed. They say this is a new water concept, changing what reportedly has been the thousands of gallons for other centers. They say the amount used would be significantly less especially if compared to a residential project – as a comparison. They add that the ever-changing technology over time could even lessen the amount of water needed to operate the data center.

As for power usage, Thompson says the center would not impact local utilities.

“We do not require a grid connection. We are selfgenerating our powers, so you don’t have to worry about CloudBurst driving up your local electric bills. We are independent of the grid,” said Thompson.

A handful of residents, like Pam Kraft, also shared what they felt was a lack of transparency in letting residents know that such consideration was even on the table.

“I’m a very transparent person. I’ve spoken before y’all before, if you remember. And do you remember what my topic was? I know you do because I came to see you personally. And it was literally a fact-finding –– I kept hearing information, and I just needed to know what was true and what wasn’t. I came here, and I presented to y’all information that I got from data centers that were out of the country at that point that were already being vacated

once they got the tax abatements used up. And then they were moving out, and they were sitting on huge buildings that they had nothing to do with. But I came to y’all, and I tried to share with y’all what I had learned. I didn’t even know what a data center was. My cousin from England was here, and I said, ‘it sounds like we’re getting a data center,’ and he goes, ‘you don’t want one!’ So, of course, I started researching. And then when data centers started getting serious, there’s no transparency,” said Kraft.

The commissioners court voted no, but it did not completely close the door on the project.

Commissioner Pct. 1 Jackie Ott, Pct. 3 Commissioner Jim Wolverton and Pct. 4 Commissioner Stephen Germann voted no.

Both Ott and Wolverton indicated that they felt like more time was needed to make this decision. Ott publicly shared how she was not anti-data center but simply needed more time to look over the details that were just revealed to the court that same day.

“I was certainly under the impression, it was my understanding, that we would receive additional specifics and reports prior to today. Prior to this hearing starting. I learned that several of us did, and several of us did not. What is concerning for me is the expectation to make a decision on such a large item without that information to consider in advance –– without that information to then take and compare to other similar companies, other similar data centers, and what they are doing in their area with perhaps similar technology. It’s my understanding from the presentation, which I do appreciate, that this is not the very first that’s using certain pieces of this technology. But having seen this for the very first time today in court, having it made available to me for the very first-time during court, I don’t have the luxury of then going and making that comparison to those other communities to see whether that’s beneficial or not beneficial. How long has it lasted? How long will it last? Will it continue to be the best option for this community?” said Ott.

During the vote, Wolverton indicated that he too needed to look over the details and that perhaps town hall meetings or further discussion were needed. County officials say at this point, the decision to still operate in the county or to return with another request would have to come from CloudBurst.

Gonzalez Earns SCAC Hitter of the Week Honor

Bryce Hayes - TLU Sports Information

SEGUIN, Texas -- Senior designated player Serena Gonzalez (Corpus Christi/Foy H. Moody) of the No. 8-ranked Texas Lutheran softball team was named Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Hitter of the Week after helping the Bulldogs secure a Top 25 SCAC series win over No. 19 St. Thomas, the conference announced Monday.

This marks Gonzalez’s fourth career SCAC weekly honor. Gonzalez finished with seven hits (7-for-10) and four runs batted in and hit her first home run of the season in the three-game series. The Corpus Christi native recorded multiple hits in all three games of the series.

In game one, she went 2-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored on Friday. On Saturday, she went a combined 5-for-7 with two doubles, a home run, a walk, three RBI, and two runs

scored. With her RBI double in game three, Gonzalez tied Taylor Yancey for the program record for RBI with 141 in her career, ranking

fifth in SCAC history.

Texas Lutheran continues its homestand with a three-game series against LeTourneau at Ed Kruse Stadium, Feb. 27-28. First pitch of Friday’s doubleheader is scheduled for 5 PM. All three games will stream on FloCollege. All streaming and live stats links can be found on tlubulldogs. com.

For more information on Texas Lutheran softball, follow the Bulldogs on Facebook (@txlutheransoftball), X (Twitter) (@ TLUsoftball), and Instagram (@tlu_softball) and as always you can find updates on all Texas Lutheran athletics on tlubulldogs.com and all official TLU social media channels (@ tluathletics on Twitter, @tlu_athletics on Instagram and TikTok, and @tlubulldogs on Facebook).

Children want to overcome their problems, but many don’t know how. Our goal is to work with kids and families to discover obstacles and remove roadblocks.

Clarity is the only nonprofit mental health treatment center for kids ages 3 to 17 in South Texas. Our staff of children’s mental health professionals is the largest in the region thanks to an affiliation with the UT Health Science Center.

their ability to pay.

LISTEN LEAD DELIVER VOTE

As a retired Infantry Veteran, over the last several weeks I have listened closely to your concerns. Here’s what I’m hearing:

• Growth and development

• Infrastructure needs roads, drainage and runoA, bridges

• Greater transparency and engagement with county leadership

• Long-term fiscal responsibility

As your County Commissioner, I’m committed to transparency, accessibility, and proactive leadership from day one. My immediate priorities will be publishing my o>icial calendar publicly and removing digital barriers to Commissioners Court meetings so ever y resident can participate and stay informed more easily.

My detailed 90- day plan - built on the concerns I’ve heard directly from you and open to your continued feedbackis available at:

www.noahwebster.us

Candidate: John Green

Tell us why you’re running?

Guadalupe County Court at Law

John Green is running for County Court at Law #1 because he believes the people of Guadalupe County deserve a court that shows up, works consistently, and treats every case with the seriousness it deserves.

Through his work as a practicing attorney and former prosecutor, John has spent years inside county courtrooms. He has seen how delays, missed court days, and stalled dockets affect real people— families waiting on probate matters, small businesses tied up in civil disputes, and attorneys trying to move cases forward for their clients. When a court isn’t operating at full strength, the impact ripples far beyond one courtroom.

John decided to run because he believes this court can and should function better. He has said plainly that being a judge is not a part-time responsibility. It requires preparation, consistency, and a commitment to being present. His goal is to restore the court to full productivity, reduce case backlogs, and relieve pressure on neighboring courts that have been forced to absorb overflow.

At its core, John’s decision to run is about accountability and service. He wants to bring steady leadership, a strong work ethic, and respect for the rule of law back to the bench. For John Green, this race is about ensuring the court works as intended—for the attorneys who practice there, for the staff who support it, and most importantly, for the residents of Guadalupe County who rely on it every day.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

If elected, John Green would face several immediate and pressing challenges focused on restoring confidence and functionality to the County Court at Law #1 bench. A primary challenge would be returning the court to full operational capacity. This includes addressing case backlogs, improving docket management, and ensuring the court maintains a consistent, reliable schedule so litigants, attorneys, and staff can move cases forward efficiently.

Another key challenge would be reducing the burden placed on neighboring county and district courts. Due to ongoing delays and limited productivity in the current court, other courts have absorbed additional cases, creating congestion across the system. Reestablishing steady output and dependable courtroom availability would help rebalance workloads countywide.

Green would also need to rebuild public and professional confidence in the court by demonstrating a strong work ethic, regular courtroom presence, and timely rulings. Consistency and accountability would be essential to restoring trust among attorneys, court staff, and residents.

Finally, modernizing court operations—through better scheduling practices, clearer communication, and efficient use of court resources—would be critical to ensuring the court functions as intended: fairly, promptly, and in service to the people of Guadalupe County.

Candidate:

William “Bill” Squires III

Tell us why you’re running?

I am Judge William “Bill” Squires III, and serving as your Judge of the County Court at Law is the honor of a lifetime. My connection to Guadalupe County is not just professional; it is deeply personal. My family has called this community home for over 180 years. I am a proud graduate of TLU, and I want the voters to know I am from here, I have served here, and my entire career has been dedicated to the safety and well-being of our community.

I bring a quarter-century of front-line legal experience to the bench. Before taking office seven years ago, I spent nearly two decades fighting crime, rising to serve as the First Assistant District Attorney and a Texas Monthly Super Lawyer in Prosecution.

I specialized in the toughest cases imaginable: Public Corruption, Major Crimes, child exploitation, human trafficking, elder fraud, and domestic violence. fighting to put dangerous criminals behind bars. I have presided over thousands of trials, always ensuring justice is efficient and fair.

I am running for re-election because you deserve a judge with strong conservative values who applies the law exactly as written, never legislates from the bench.

My court serves as an unshakeable safety net for our most vulnerable: children, the elderly, and families in crisis. Whether overseeing guardianship cases for aging parents or making difficult decisions in family law, I view my role as a protector. Since taking office, I have safeguarded over $100 million in assets for Guadalupe County families, ensuring those resources are preserved for care, not lost to exploitation.

I know the real-world stakes because I have spent my life in public service. I am asking for your vote to continue that work: protecting victims, upholding the Constitution, and ensuring that in Guadalupe County, justice is always served.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The most significant challenge facing the winner is not identifying what is broken; it is protecting what is finally working. Success in the civil courts can be deceptive; when a court functions smoothly, it is easy to assume that efficiency is automatic. It is not. Success is the result of relentless, deliberate management.

When I took office seven years ago, we faced clear challenges demanding immediate reform. We confronted those issues head-on, building an office defined by speed, consistency, and integrity.

The challenge now is defending that hard-won progress. We must ensure we do not dismantle reforms simply because institutional knowledge walks out the door. The risk to our community isn’t complacency; it is disruption.

Guadalupe County Commissioner, Precinct 2

Candidate Name: Mayor (of Staples) Ronnie Clark

Tell us why you’re running?

Being involved in city government since 2008 I know that with my experience and the knowledge I’ve gained as Mayor for the City of Staples, I can be an effective commissioner not only in precinct 2 but for all of Guadalupe County. I’ve lived in this county for over 30 years, and have gotten to know many residents, have also worked with departments in county administration, TXDOT and FEMA. I believe that my knowledge and experience will make for an easy transition to be an effective commissioner for precinct 2.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat will be managing rapid growth, protecting our water resources, improving road safety, and ensuring our law enforcement and first responders have the support they need. Overdevelopment is already straining infrastructure, increasing flooding risks, and putting pressure on rural communities. At the same time, residents expect transparency, accessibility, and leadership that listens.

I am prepared to address these challenges through experience and action. As Mayor, I’ve balanced budgets, written ordinances, assisted in grant writing, built a police department from the ground up, and worked directly with residents to solve real problems. I will bring that same hands-on leadership to the County. I will advocate at the Capitol like I have done on other issues for smarter growth policies, push for responsible development that respects private property rights, fight for safer roads and better infrastructure, and maintain open communication through regular town halls. I believe in common-sense solutions, accountability, and putting people first because actions speak louder than words.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

I was instrumental in the incorporation of the City of Staples in 2008, and I have served ever since as an unpaid City Council member, Mayor Pro Tem, and now Mayor for the past four and a half years. During that time, I’ve worked creatively and responsibly to achieve major improvements, including starting a police department with six reserve commissioned officers, securing grants for two fully equipped police cruisers, revitalizing our city park with a new playground and safety fencing, working with TXDOT on new signage at a dangerous intersection, addressing flooding issues, increasing street lighting by 40%, and installing security fencing at the African American cemetery all in a city with no property tax.

I’ve also worked closely with Guadalupe County departments, including County Commissioners and the County Engineer, recently securing changes to the county thoroughfare plan to remove the proposed 120-foot right-of-way through the City of Staples, which would have completely wiped us off the map. That plan is now headed to Commissioners Court for a vote.

Candidate: Noah Webster

Tell us why you’re running?

I’m running for Guadalupe County Commissioner Precinct 2 because, after 20 years of Army Infantry service and multiple combat deployments, I retired to raise my family here— where my kids attend Navarro ISD and we enjoy the rural beauty and strong community. But rapid growth is straining our roads, drainage, and services, and residents deserve better leadership.

Current representation often feels distant—unanswered calls, lack of email response, opaque decisions. I’ll change that approach entirely. I commit to personally answering emails and phone calls as timely as possible and to posting my public calendar for full transparency.

I’m running to deliver accountable, responsive government that listens to residents first, controls spending to keep taxes low, fixes infrastructure, and protects our quality of life. Service to country never ends for me; now it’s service to our county.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The biggest challenges are managing explosive growth while preserving our rural character: upgrading roads and transportation infrastructure while respecting property rights and community input, improving water systems and flood mitigation, developing a resident-driven long-term vision, increasing transparency, and keeping property taxes low despite rising demands.

I’ve spent 20 years solving complex problems under pressure—leading teams, managing taxpayer treasure, and executing plans in high-stakes environments. These experiences translate directly here.

If elected, I’ll launch my 90-day action plan: hold town halls for resident input, meet every department head to identify efficiencies and opportunities, conduct a line-by-line budget review to cut waste, and aggressively pursue state and federal grants for infrastructure and rural conservation. I’ll deliver proactive, measurable results with direct accountability.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

I’m the only veteran running for County Commissioner this election cycle, and with veterans making up a significant and growing portion of our county (14%), I’m uniquely positioned to advocate for their specific needs while serving every resident equally.

My 20 years leading Soldiers across the globe taught me real leadership: put people first, make tough calls, and deliver results without excuses— a servicebased mindset that directly benefits all families, veteran and civilian alike. My opponents have experience in the system; I bring fresh energy, proven crisis management, military budget discipline, and zero tolerance for waste or special interests. I’m grassroots-funded, directly accessible by phone, and beholden only to the voters.

As a Precinct 2 resident staking my family’s future here, Webster, pg. 11

Guadalupe County Commissioner, Precinct 3

Candidate Name: Allison Heyward

Tell us why you’re running?

Guadalupe County is growing fast. New families, new opportunities, new energy. I am running for Precinct 3 Commissioner because I want to guide that growth thoughtfully, so we protect the quality of life and values that make this place home.

I have spent over seven years on Schertz City Council actively managing budgets, public safety, and rapid expansion. As Texas Municipal League President I helped defeat statewide property tax increases and forced housing mandates. Real wins for taxpayers and local freedom.

I have delivered results: better first responder pay structure, grant funding where possible, and smart investments in infrastructure and public safety, sometimes requiring difficult but necessary local tax adjustments to avoid crumbling roads, understaffed emergency services, or declining quality of life. Growth demands tough, responsible choices. I promise transparency, maximum grant pursuit, waste reduction, and decisions that keep roads safe, families protected, emergency services strong, and communities welcoming.

I am running to keep serving with proven results. I would be honored to earn your vote.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The biggest challenge is rapid growth. More residents, more traffic, more demand on roads, services, and budgets. Managed right, it strengthens our county. Managed poorly, it strains families.

I am prepared with current experience and strong tools. I hold the Government Finance Officers Association of Texas (GFOAT) certificate, along with my Certified Municipal Officer credential. I have spent seven years managing fast growth on the Schertz City Council.

Public safety is non-negotiable. I have earned law enforcement trust through consistent action and real support.

My signature move: I will lead the creation of a modern strategic plan and clear mission statement for Guadalupe County. We cannot be efficient or make the smartest decisions without a plan that everyone understands. This plan will set specific priorities for roads, staffing, emergency response, infrastructure and long-term growth, giving residents and staff a shared direction. It requires no major new spending, just leadership and focus.

I am ready to turn growth into a win for Precinct 3.

Why are you the best candidate? What sets you apart?

I am the best candidate because I am actively serving today, delivering results, staying current, and bringing both local and statewide experience. Seven years on Schertz City Council. Texas Municipal League President who successfully protected taxpayers from statewide overreach. Certified Municipal Officer with a Government Finance Officers Association of Texas certificate.

Candidate: Jim Wolverton

Why Jim is running:

Jim Wolverton is running for Guadalupe County Commissioner because he believes local government should work for the people—not waste their money or compromise their safety.

As a conservative Republican and current Commissioner for Precinct 3, Jim has seen firsthand how important strong, steady leadership is at the county level. He’s running to continue fighting for maximum funding for public safety, ensuring law enforcement, firefighters, and first responders have the resources they need to keep families safe.

At the same time, Jim is a staunch fiscal conservative who understands that every tax dollar comes from hardworking residents. He’s running to protect those dollars by demanding responsible budgeting, cutting unnecessary spending, and making sure county government lives within its means.

Jim believes Guadalupe County can grow without losing its values. He’s committed to common-sense conservatism, transparency, and accountability—putting public safety first while keeping taxes low and government efficient.

Ultimately, Jim is running because he cares deeply about the future of Guadalupe County. He wants to leave a county that is safer, stronger, and more financially responsible for the next generation.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

Precinct 3 and Guadalupe County are growing quickly, and that growth brings real challenges. One of the biggest is infrastructure—especially roads. Traffic has increased faster than many roadways were designed to handle, making thoughtful planning and smart investment essential to keep people moving safely and efficiently.

Another major concern is managing growth without losing what makes Precinct 3 special. As development expands, it’s important to protect established neighborhoods, rural land, and property owners while still allowing for responsible economic growth.

Fiscal responsibility is also critical. Rising costs for public safety, county facilities, and essential services put added pressure on the county budget. Taxpayers deserve to know their money is being spent carefully, efficiently, and transparently.

Public safety must keep pace as well. As more families and businesses move into the area, emergency services need adequate staffing, equipment, and coordination to respond quickly when needed.

Finally, long-term planning and cooperation with cities, school districts, and regional partners are key to ensuring growth is handled responsibly—so the county remains a great place to live today and for generations to come.

Guadalupe County Commissioner, Precinct 4

Candidate: Joel Hicks

Tell us why you’re running?

I am running for Guadalupe County Commissioner, Precinct 4 to address key local issues such as roads infrastructure, economic development, and smart controlled growth with practical, community-focused solutions. My emphasis is serving the community with integrity, listening to residents, and ensuring government works for everyone, not just the well-connected. His campaign highlights infrastructure improvements, particularly enhancing county roads and aligning county standards with city levels so residents benefit from reliable, well-maintained thoroughfares. Prioritizing responsible economic growth. With experience on regional planning and transportation boards, I have worked to secure federal funds for local projects and attract businesses to the area, supporting job creation and economic vibrancy.

On smart, controlled growth, I will advocate for long-term planning and fiscal responsibility to handle rapid development without sacrificing quality of life. I support strategic coordination with cities and regional partners to ensure growth is orderly and sustainable, protecting community character while meeting infrastructure needs.

Overall, my campaign centers on improving everyday life in Precinct 4 by maintaining essential infrastructure, encouraging economic opportunity, and guiding growth thoughtfully and transparently.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The winner will inherit a rapidly growing community that places significant demands on infrastructure, public services, and long-term planning. Key challenges are,

Hicks, pg. 15

Candidate: Mark Allen

Tell us why you’re running?

I’m running for County Commissioner because I feel that working families in Guadalupe County deserve a seat at the table to decide matters that are important to families in our community. My family chose Guadalupe County as our home to raise our children & I have a duty to help make our community the very best it can be. We’re experiencing tremendous growth & now is the time to define what our County will look like by 2040. We are at a crossroads, & unless we have a solid plan for the future, our future will be dictated by others. I want to help develop a comprehensive master plan for Guadalupe County that is driven by citizens who want to help shape the future of our community, including transportation routes, employment centers, safer communities & the places we enjoy for dining out, shopping, & entertainment. I’ve witnessed communities in other parts of Texas evolve from primarily agricultural communities to hosting corporate

Candidate: Incumbent Stephen Germann

Tell us why you’re running?

When I took the oath of office January 1 of 2023 I promised, to the best of my ability so help me God, to serve the people of Precinct 4 as well as Guadalupe County. I have been very diligent in performing this work. My belief is the taxpayers should get the job performance from me that they pay me to do. The growth of mainly housing in the county is putting an enormous strain on every part of our county government and departments. As I have done up to now and will continue to do if reelected is be a full time commissioner that all the people and employees of the county can count on.

I have several projects I am working on that I must finish. A total remodel of an office building in Marion to bring the Precinct 4 office including a tax office to Marion. Likewise, I am working to bring a fire station to FM 725 and work with fire departments to partner with them on fire protection.

All of this plus the need for larger and better roads will take a great deal of time to accomplish. Economic development cannot be forgotten to help relieve the tax burden on existing taxpayers.

I am asking the voters to go to the poles and reelect me so there is a continuity of these projects and many others. The growth will not stop. My on-the-job experience of the last three years is an asset to dealing with it.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

I have documentation that there will be approximately 14,100 houses coming to the Marion/Cibolo area within 3 to 8 years, largely in Precinct 4 with some in Precinct 1.

Germann, pg. 14

headquarters for many of our nation’s largest employers. We can learn from what these County’s did well, as well as what mistakes were made, which we will avoid making ourselves. The growth is here, whether we like it or not, & it is on our leaders to help shape that growth into positive outcomes for all of our citizens. There will be major investments made in Guadalupe County & the opportunity to make the most of future investments is ours to embrace. I’d like to help shape the collective vision for our future, in partnership with our citizens. Interstate 10 is currently being reconstructed in partnership with TxDOT & this corridor is where our future opportunities will branch out from. We must prepare our community to achieve the best possible outcomes for Guadalupe County families both today & tomorrow.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The roads throughout Guadalupe County are in terrible shape & I feel that our taxpayers deserve return on investment for the property & sales taxes we all pay.

Allen, pg. 16

Guadalupe County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2

Candidate Name: Willie Ybarra

Tell us why you’re running?

For 31 years, I have served as a police officer with the City of Seguin. In that time, I’ve met people on some of the hardest days of their lives — families dealing with loss, neighbors in conflict, young people who needed guidance, and victims who needed someone to stand with them. I learned that every situation, no matter how routine it may look on paper, deserves patience, fairness, and respect.

Those lessons shaped me. They taught me that justice isn’t about titles or power — it’s about people. It’s about listening. It’s about treating every person who walks into that courtroom with dignity, whether they’re there for a small claim, a truancy matter, or an eviction hearing. And it’s about making sure the law is applied consistently, calmly, and with integrity.

If elected, I will work to ensure that our JP office is accessible, professional, and responsive. I will bring the same work ethic that earned me Officer of the Year in 2023, the same dedication that carried me through more than 3,200 hours of advanced specialized training, achieving a Masters Peace Officer Certificate, and the same commitment to fairness that has guided me throughout my career.

I’m running for Justice of the Peace because I believe Precinct 2 deserves a JP who brings qualified experience, steadiness, and a commitment to doing what’s right — every single time. Someone who follows the law and understands the real-world impact of these decisions on families, property owners, and our community as a whole.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

One of the key challenges I plan to tackle as Justice of the Peace is improving the public’s understanding and trust in the court process. Many people walk into a Justice of the Peace courtroom feeling intimidated, confused, or unsure of what to expect. That lack of clarity can create frustration and make it harder for individuals to feel they were treated fairly.

Precinct #2 is experiencing rapid growth, and this expansion presents a significant challenge for the Justice of the Peace office. At present, the office is operated by a small staff of only one and a half people, which is insufficient to meet the increasing demands of the community. To address this issue, one of my primary actions will be to ensure that the office is staffed with more than enough personnel who are not only fully trained but also cross-trained. This will enable the office to operate efficiently and provide seamless assistance to every citizen.

When a resident seeks help from the JP office, they should feel confident and comfortable knowing that the staff is fully prepared to assist them. It is essential that the office is equipped to respond promptly and effectively to the needs of the community, reflecting the dedication to accessibility and professionalism that Precinct #2 deserves.

Candidate: Judge Sheryl Sachtleben

Tell us why you’re running?

I am seeking another term as Justice of the Peace for Precinct 2 because I believe in continuity, experience, and service matter—especially as our court faces unprecedented growth. With a significant increase in filings, our court has implemented an effective case management system that allows us to process traffic, eviction, small claims, debt, and truancy cases efficiently and fairly. As a result, JP2 maintains the highest clearance rate in the county while operating on the most conservative budget.

This role is not simply a job or a career path for me—it is a responsibility I take personally and a service I am honored to provide. Every person who comes through our courtroom deserves to be treated with respect, clear information, and professionalism. I am especially proud to voluntarily operate the county’s only truancy court serving 20 campuses, a critical resource that could be lost without continued leadership and community support. I am experienced, motivated, and committed to ensuring our residents receive excellent service now and into the future.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The greatest challenge is growth. Case filings in Precinct 2 have tripled in recent years and are expected to continue rising. I am well prepared to manage this challenge because I have already implemented systems that ensure no case goes more than 30 days without action.

I believe accountability must be balanced with fairness. While warrants are sometimes necessary, they are issued only after our office has made multiple documented attempts to contact individuals and provide options for resolution. This approach maintains public trust while ensuring the court remains efficient, responsive, and just.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents? Experience, stability, and proven results set me apart. With 30 years of experience working with youth and families and 15 years serving as Justice of the Peace, I bring a depth of knowledge that allows me to issue fair, timely, and consistent judgments.

The court operates efficiently, transparently, and with integrity. This is not the time to start over—our systems are working, and the results show it. I remain hands-on in daily operations, assisting with clerical duties, answering phones, and ensuring every person who interacts with our office is treated with dignity and respect. My commitment to public service, combined with a strong work ethic and a passion for continuous improvement, makes me the best choice to continue serving Precinct 2.

Guadalupe County Judge

Candidate Name: Michael R. Carpenter

Tell us why you’re running?

One of my greatest joys in forty years of work life has been using my experience to help people, teams, and organizations succeed in their careers, business endeavors and missions.

Uncontested Races

Throughout my working life, I have seen firsthand that lasting success is rarely the result of individual effort - it comes from collaboration, clear direction, and leaders who are willing to listen, engage, and remove obstacles so others can do their best work.

I am running for county judge to bring my experience, commitment and sense of purpose to the organization. My focus will be on building strong, effective teams; fostering cooperation across departments and with external partners; and ensuring that county government serves our residents, cities, and businesses with a customer-service first approach steeped in efficiency, efficacy and enthusiasm.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

It is my belief that the single, greatest challenge we face today as a county - and will continue to face well into the future - is growth. Managing growth beyond the corporate boundaries of our cities is complex and demanding, but it is work we must do.

Residential and commercial growth affect every county department, adding ever-increasing demands for service and additional expense to provide those services each year.

Carpenter, pg. 14

Guadalupe County Judge

Candidate: Kirsten Legore

Why were you willing to continue in the position?

I have had the privilege of serving Guadalupe County as Judge of County Court at Law #2 since my Commissioner’s Court appointment in 2021 and subsequent election. This position gives me the opportunity to make a meaningful difference for the people and families of the county. The court’s work spans adult misdemeanor cases, juvenile matters, civil cases, and specialty courts, so the decisions made affect public safety, accountability, and the future of young people in our community. I have seen firsthand how consistent, steady leadership creates stability for victims, defendants, litigants, and especially for families navigating the juvenile justice system. Continuity matters in a court where relationships with probation, treatment providers, schools, and community partners directly impact outcomes.

Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1

Candidate Name: Katherine Torrence

Tell us why you’re running?

I am running for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1 because I am ready to give back to Guadalupe County. My career in the county began in 2004 at the Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4 office, where I served under two different judges. I later transitioned to a law firm, where I continue to work closely with Justice Courts across Texas. This role has allowed me to learn from various judges and stay current on the latest developments within the Justice Court system.

What are the biggest challenges facing the winner of this seat, and how are you prepared to address those challenges?

The primary challenge I foresee in Guadalupe County is managing rapid growth while maintaining high efficiency. As Justice of the Peace, I will ensure that the citizens of Guadalupe County receive swift and due diligence in both Class C misdemeanors and civil cases. I am committed to honoring the JP office’s role as “the people’s court.”

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents? My professional experience—including my time as a Chief Clerk at the JP4 office and as a client service coordinator for multiple judges—has provided me with deep institutional knowledge. Combined with over 200 hours of training from the Justice Court Training Center and a strong professional network, I am prepared to lead the JP1 office with efficiency, effectiveness, and thoroughness.

County Court at Law #2 continues to be a court that is organized, efficient, and respectful, where cases move promptly and everyone is treated fairly. At the same time, we are strengthening problem-solving courts to address the root causes of criminal behavior. I chose to continue serving because I want to see this progress through and ensure these initiatives are sustainable long term. Public service has always guided my career, and I remain committed to providing experienced, dependable leadership for Guadalupe County.

What challenges do you currently deal with in your elected position?

One of the most significant challenges is managing a high-volume and steadily growing court docket while ensuring each case receives careful consideration. Guadalupe County continues to experience rapid population growth, and with that growth comes an increase in criminal, juvenile, and civil filings. More residents naturally mean more cases, which requires constant attention to scheduling, staffing, and efficient court operations to prevent delays and keep the justice system accessible.

Legore, pg. 15

Green, continued.

What Makes him best for the job:

John Green stands out in this race because he brings both the experience and the work ethic needed to restore the County Court at Law #1 to the level the community expects and deserves. As a practicing attorney and former prosecutor, he understands how a county court should function day to day—not just in theory, but in real practice. He has seen firsthand how delays, missed court time, and low productivity affect families, attorneys, and the broader justice system.

John has made it clear that showing up matters. A court cannot serve the public if it is not operating consistently or at full capacity. His focus is on moving cases efficiently, managing the docket responsibly, and ensuring the court is present and productive. That commitment directly addresses the backlog and overflow that have forced other county courts to shoulder additional burdens. Equally important, John offers a chance to restore confidence in the court. Voters want a judge who is reliable, engaged, and accountable.

John Green’s background, combined with his clear priorities, presents a strong alternative for those seeking steady leadership and a fully functioning court that works for the people of Guadalupe County.

Clark, continued.

The County Commissioner position is very similar to my current role just on a larger scale. I believe I am the only candidate bringing day to day real-world experience that will transfer directly into this office. I will be a hands-on Commissioner for all of Guadalupe County. Help me fight for you!

Webster, continued.

I’m personally invested in keeping our community safe, affordable, and rural. That’s the decisive veteran difference I’ll deliver on the Commissioners Court.

Squires, continued.

I am prepared to meet this challenge because my hardworking team and I are the architects of the court’s current success. I carry the history of this office, the lessons learned, and the specific expertise required to maintain our momentum. My record stands as proof. Under my leadership, we have achieved a remarkable 129% case clearance rate, eliminating backlogs and safeguarding over $100 million in assets for families.

Combined with my background as a career prosecutor handling major crimes and my advanced academic work in Judicial Studies, I possess the unique toolkit necessary to navigate complex legal waters. I offer not just promises, but a proven, steady hand that ensures Guadalupe County’s justice system remains swift, fair, and secure.

I’m prepared for Guadalupe County’s continued growth and the challenges that come with that growth. My court ranks 31st in the state in efficiency. I carry the history of this office, the lessons learned, and the responsibility to protect the systems that serve the public extraordinarily well.

The hardest challenge facing the winner of this bench is defending progress that has been made.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

I am proud to be the only candidate unanimously endorsed by the Guadalupe County Conservative Republicans and supported by current local Republican

leadership. My commitment is simple: to apply the law fairly, protect our community, and serve with honor.

I bring unmatched experience, proven results, and deep roots in Guadalupe County. I am the only candidate who has spent decades in the courtroom handling serious cases. I am also the only candidate with a Master’s Degree in Judicial Studies—one of only ten in Texas, since 1985—and a former Professor of Trial Advocacy at St. Mary’s School of Law. My legal background is extensive. I served as Chief Training Coordinator for young prosecutors, lecturing on complex legal issues, and am a member of the National Order of Barristers and Society of Legal Scholars.

I have demonstrated a record of successfully managing a high-performing court. I am the only candidate who truly understands the vast difference between civil and criminal dockets. Comparing a criminal case to a civil suit is essentially comparing apples to oranges; they require fundamentally different approaches.

I am the only candidate who has done the work this court handles daily. I understand that the behind-the-scenes preparation for civil cases is dramatically different from criminal cases. While both are critical, what happens in court during civil, probate, and guardianship hearings is just the tip of the iceberg. The work, the research, and the review occur long before I put on the robes and take the bench.

With over 24 years as an attorney and seven years as your Judge, my qualifications set me apart. My family has been committed to Guadalupe County for over 180 years, and I offer not just promises, but a proven record of keeping our community safe and our courts running efficiently.

Heyward, continued.

Schertz Police Association endorsement earned through public-safety action. Guadalupe County Conservative Republicans endorsement because I share and fight for the values that matter most to our community.

I am proactive, not reactive. I stay up on the latest technology and innovation so we can use modern tools to make county operations more efficient and responsive without wasting money. I believe we should have a simple road

Wolverton, continued.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

Jim Wolverton’s experience is one of the main reasons many believe he is the right choice to serve as County Commissioner for Precinct 3. With more than 20 years previously spent on the Commissioners Court, he understands how county government works, how budgets are built, and how to plan for longterm infrastructure needs.

During his time in office, Jim helped oversee major county projects, including service centers and courthouse renovations that residents continue to rely on

Ybarra, continued.

I am committed to bringing transparency, accurate application of the law, and fairness to the Justice of the Peace office. My goal is simple: ensure that every individual who comes before the court receives respectful, consistent, and impartial treatment.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

The best candidate for Justice of the Peace is the one who brings the credentials, depth of experience, commitment to fairness, and knowledge of the law. As your candidate I will bring this and more to the JP office. With more than 31 years as a police officer I have spent my entire career serving the public with integrity, professionalism, and respect.

index to clearly show which roads need repair first. Proactive planning that saves money and keeps our roads safe.

That means immediate focus on conservative principles, fiscal discipline, and putting taxpayers first. Guadalupe County deserves a commissioner who is fully engaged and proven. That is me.

I would be honored to have your vote and continue serving.

today. That hands-on experience matters, especially as Guadalupe County continues to grow and faces increasing demands on roads, public safety, and essential county services.

Because Jim was recently appointed to fill the Precinct 3 vacancy, he was able to step right back into the role without a learning curve. This provides stability and ensures residents have consistent representation during a period of rapid growth.

Those who support Jim point to his reliability, attention to detail, and willingness to do the work. He is known for showing up, understanding the issues, and focusing on practical, commonsense solutions that put the needs of Precinct 3 residents first.

I have handled thousands of situations where clear thinking, compassion, and consistency were essential, and I understand how important it is for every person to feel heard and treated with dignity.

This community has given me a lot. It’s where I’ve worked, served, and built relationships for decades. My wife and I have raised our four children here. As an elected official, I feel it’s important to give back to the community. I have been volunteering as a Seguin Parrot Head for more than ten years and a member of the Elks Lodge. I started the Seguin Moonlight 5K Run to fund bikes for the Cops and Kids Picnic and am a founding member of the Citizens Police Academy, Youth Academy, and have been representing the Seguin Police Department for over 20 years as Blue Santa.

Now I’m asking for the opportunity to continue

serving you — not in a police uniform and badge, but from the bench, where fairness and integrity matter more than ever. My knowledge, experience and daily implementation of the law for 31 years make me the most qualified and prepared candidate on the ballot.

I’m not running to be a politician. I’m running to be a public servant. And with your support, I’ll bring experience, professionalism, and a steady hand to the Justice of the Peace office. My experience, character, and dedication to this community make me fully prepared to serve effectively from day one. As a decades-long servant of this community I ask for your support.

Thank you for caring about our community, and I humbly ask for your vote.

Carpenter, continued.

In Texas, counties are very limited in the regulatory tools available to them to guide or direct land development, which adds complexity to the task.

Meeting this challenge will require well-crafted, clear, and enforceable regulations; proactive and ongoing engagement with both commercial and residential developers; strong collaboration with our cities’ leadership teams; fruitful and engaged partnerships with their economic development corporations; and sustained advocacy at the state legislature.

Success will require multiple county leaders and departments working together in ways that may be new and, at times, potentially uncomfortable.

I plan to work with the county leaders and department heads to foster an organizational

culture grounded in collaboration, mutual support, and shared purpose.

I am confident that a unified leadership team, working across traditional boundaries, will produce measurable and lasting results in how we manage growth - to the benefit of the entire county.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

I believe my private- and public-sector experiencespanning more than 40 years - is what sets me apart.

In my time working in the private sector, I got to work in retail, in restaurants and in the information technology industry. I was blessed to work both as an individual contributor and in various management and leadership positions along the way.

In the public sector I have worked as a substitute teacher, a city councilman, a county commissioner and a mayor.

As a volunteer I’ve coached and officiated youth sports.

Most importantly, in every job or role I’ve ever had, I’ve been blessed to have learned. I learned about people, organizations, management, leadership, responsibility, success, and failure that you can’t get from a book or a in a university classroom.

While it may sound a bit trite, you really do just have to have been there and done it - and then made a conscious decision to learn from it.

I believe I bring a unique skillset to the office.

Germann, continued.

The commissioner in Precinct 4 represents about 50,000 people. Cities have numerous staff and departments to deal with their populations. I will have to be the manager over this growth with a limited number of staff. My experience in agribusiness and as an upper-level manager in the poultry industry has given me the skillset to be an effective manager of people and budgets within the constraints of limited funds. I am an absolute fiscal conservative. My experiences taught me to seek out expert help when needed and work as a team player to get things done.

While in college I took several soil science courses and have been in agribusiness my entire life. These two things I use daily in my job. The soil type under roads and houses and the understanding of it is key in planning. I do not let developers get away with substandard engineering in subdivisions. I confer with staff regarding this issue.

It will take a substantial amount of money to support the infrastructure needs of the number of homes projected. Economies of clean industries with good jobs is a must. I will continue to partner with cities to work on this aspect. I will also continue to work with our staff in predevelopment meetings to try to help small businesses establish themselves without many delays or regulations on their projects.

In short, the job of commissioner is a large one that should be done by an individual that is willing to work full time and be a good manager in every way. I believe my experience and three years on the job prepares me to face existing challenges and those that may come up in the future.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

I believe my work for the last few years, and my life skills set me far apart from any other candidate for this job.

My family came to Guadalupe County in the late 1800’s. I absolutely know every part of this county and how it has evolved to the point of where we are today. This knowledge also gives me a foundation to build on to formulate and manage where we are going. Whis this knowledge of the area also comes the relationships I have built over the years with many businesses and individuals. I am a firm believer that experts in anything are not always the experts; the common people are the experts. An example being the people along a creek know where the creek floods. The maps are many times wrong. I always try to have an open door and dialogue with all people of the county so we can make the county a better place.

In the 3 plus years I have been in office, I have gained much wisdom in what a county can and cannot do. The rules the state governs counties by are way different than the rules cities must follow. Having learned this, it is much easier for me to move forward projects such as a rewrite of our subdivision rule book that we are set to finish by this summer.

I have supported and made friends with first responders. They tell me their needs, and I try to get them on their behalf to keep citizens safe.

I have a proven track record of absolutely being a true servant of the citizens of the county. The light at FM 1044/78 and saving the City of Marion are only two examples. I sincerely and humbly ask for the voters of Precinct 4 to vote for me so I can continue the work of the people.

Hicks, continued.

• Roads & Infrastructure: Guadalupe County continues to grow, and maintaining and expanding roads, bridges, and drainage to keep pace with development is critical. Rapid population and housing growth increases traffic, stresses existing roadways, and creates pressure on budgets already balancing multiple priorities. Addressing these needs while funding other essential services is a challenge.

• Managing Growth: As development accelerates, there’s a need to ensure growth is smart, sustainable, and fiscally responsible. Unplanned or poorly coordinated development strains public services — from emergency response to utilities — and can burden residents if infrastructure doesn’t keep up.

• Economic Opportunity & Services: Balancing economic development with quality of life — including public safety, community services, and fiscal stability — requires strategic vision and strong regional partnerships. How am I prepared to address these challenges are,

• Infrastructure leadership: You prioritize proactive planning and investments in roads, drainage, and public facilities, ensuring projects are prioritized based on community needs and long-term county planning.

• Smart controlled growth: You’ll work collaboratively with neighboring cities, county leaders, and state partners to craft growth policies that protect rural character, attract quality jobs, and require developers to contribute fairly to infrastructure costs.

• Fiscal responsibility & community focus: You emphasize transparent budgeting, efficient use of taxpayer dollars, and open communication with residents to ensure public services and infrastructure improvements are sustainable and aligned with community priorities. This approach ensures that Precinct 4 can thrive — with safe roads, strong economic opportunities, and planned growth that enhances quality of life.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

Legore, continued.

At the same time, many cases involve underlying issues such as mental illness, substance use disorders, or family instability, which add complexity beyond traditional case processing. Balancing a growing caseload with thoughtful, problem-solving approaches that improve outcomes is an ongoing challenge. My focus is to maintain efficiency while ensuring fairness, accountability, and public safety for a rapidly expanding community.

How do you wish to improve your office?

Since taking office, I have worked diligently to provide the citizens of Guadalupe County with a court that is accessible, consistent, and efficient. Over the past

I believe I am the best candidate for Guadalupe County Commissioner, Precinct 4 because my record shows long-term commitment, proven leadership, and a deep understanding of how county government truly works.

As a Veteran, service is not a slogan for me—it’s a lifelong responsibility. I understand the needs of veterans and their families in our county and will always ensure their voices are heard and respected at the county level.

I have spent more than five years consistently attending Commissioner Court, not as a spectator, but as someone committed to learning the process, understanding county challenges, and holding leadership accountable. That experience gives me a clear, realistic understanding of what works, what doesn’t, and where improvement is needed.

My eight-plus years on the Cibolo City Council set me apart. During that time, I worked directly on budgets, infrastructure, public safety, and growth management. I know how decisions made at the county level impact cities, residents, and taxpayers because I’ve been on the front lines making those decisions.

I’ve also built strong relationships with regional partners, allowing me to collaborate effectively across jurisdictions to address transportation, infrastructure, and economic development—because No County succeeds in isolation.

Finally, I am retired and fully dedicated to serving the citizens of Guadalupe County. This is not a stepping stone or a part-time role for me. I will give the same full-time focus, accessibility, and commitment to Precinct 4 that I gave to the citizens of Cibolo.

Experience, service, and dedication—that’s what sets me apart.

five years, 6313 criminal cases, 677 juvenile cases and 782 civil cases have been filed in County Court at Law #2 with over 2000 juvenile detention hearings conducted. This experience has allowed me to build stability, continuity, and public trust in the court. To improve my office, I am pursuing grant funding to expand the resources available to the newly state-recognized Guadalupe County R.I.S.E. Mental Health Court and ensure the program’s long-term sustainability. This specialty court is designed to address the complex needs of defendants whose mental illness has contributed to criminal behavior. In addition, I oversee the county’s A.C.H.I.E.V.E. Drug Court and plan to work with that specialty court team to review and update procedures as best practices evolve. As the sole candidate in this race, I remain committed to continuing the court’s important work and to serving the growing needs of Guadalupe County with fairness, diligence, and integrity.

Allen, continued.

In our County a policy exists that roads within city limits are the responsibility of those cities to maintain. The County currently works to improve & maintain roads that are outside of cities within Guadalupe County. I feel that the County roads should continue to be improved by County government, however that County tax dollars also need to go towards road projects for thoroughfares throughout Guadalupe County. While serving on city council, we conducted a roads survey where all roads throughout the city were evaluated based on road conditions as well as traffic count. The roads that scored poorly on road condition & high on traffic count were prioritized as the roads to repair first. During my 7 years as an elected official, we reconstructed dozens of roads throughout Cibolo. I’m not claiming to have fixed all Cibolo roads; however, we reconstructed a lot more roads from 2018-2025 than were reconstructed in previous years. As our next County Commissioner, I plan to work with our County Judge & our commissioners to fund a county roads survey to identify the roads with both the highest traffic counts & lowest road condition scores & then prioritize those roads for reconstruction. Regardless of where these roads are located, if they are in Guadalupe County, then the taxpayers deserve to realize a return on their property tax investment in the form of quality roads throughout our County. In exchange for these road improvement investments, cities can agree to maintain these newly reconstructed roads moving forward. County Commissioners need to work with municipalities throughout Guadalupe County to determine which road projects are most important to our citizens.

Why do you believe you are the best candidate for the job? In other words, what do you believe sets you apart from your opponents?

I’m an experienced leader in our community with multiple terms of city council experience as well as experience as Mayor of Cibolo. The city of Cibolo is the largest city, by population, wholly located within Guadalupe County. I’ve lived in Guadalupe County Precinct 4 with my family since 2009. We moved to this community when our son was in 2nd grade. He attended SCUCISD schools & graduated from Steele in 2020. Our daughter is now a freshman at Steele. My wife & I specifically selected this community to raise our children because of the wholesome values espoused by its inhabitants. This is the very best community in south Texas to raise a family, live, work, play, & to ultimately retire in. We have quality housing at an affordable cost. The schools are great & we now have wonderful choices for dining, shopping, & entertainment. I’ve helped Cibolo grow into the thriving community we see today. I want to continue to help shape Guadalupe County into a thriving community we are all proud of. We need to come together to continue to improve the roads & to help welcome more amazing businesses to our community. I am a fiscal conservative & feel that not all problems require a government solution. I am for small government & feel that we can accomplish great things without raising taxes on growing families & the elderly. We must prioritize the tax income we collect to get the most bang for the buck in improving infrastructure, fire protection, & police services. I am a great communicator & plan to keep working families throughout Guadalupe County informed on important issues deliberated at the County level. If elected to serve as our next Guadalupe County Commissioner, I will make wise decisions for everyone in our great community.

JUDGE SHERYL SACHTLEBEN

“I am asking for your vote in the Republican Primaries on March 3, 2026, so those who rely on JP2 can continue to receive friendly, informati icient service. This is not a job, a career move, or a retirement plan for me-it is my passion to serve you and our community and continue the processing of each case timely.

I am fair, impartial, honest , and thorough. I work hard, fast , and bring a high level of ene effectiveness, knowledge, and integrity to t he court every day. This chart have tripled in the last two years, our court maintains the most conservative budget and has the

clearance rate, 86%, among Guadalupe County JP courts. This is a result of a Judge that works for you !” Your JP2 is doing things right and we are getting results-WE

I LOVE BEING YOUR JUDGE!

You may never need the services of the Justice of the Peace, but your vote will empower Judge Sheryl Sachtleben to continue providing a court that is uplifting, just, and ef�icient. I am very passionate about serving the amazing and very diverse people of Pct. 2 with fair, swift, and effectiveness justice for all.

“I have enjoying bringing my experience, knowledge, integrity, and compassion to Pct. 2 residents for 15 amazing years We are at the best part of a great book. I work for each of you from Ave. C, to Crest Circle, to Glen Cove, and from river to river. I am grateful for the opportunity!”-Judge Sheryl Sachtleben

VITAL STATISTICS

VILLARREAL

Pedro R. Villarreal, age 84 of Seguin, passed away on February 20, 2026. Pedro was born on September 4, 1941, in San Antonio, Texas, to Rosa (Garcia) and Jesus Villarreal.

Pedro proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Up until retirement he worked as an aircraft mechanic at Kelly Field in San Antonio. As a golfer he enjoyed being a member of the Pan American Golf Association. Other hobbies included gardening, fishing, and working puzzles. Favorite times included trips to Las Vegas.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Soila Lopez Villarreal; siblings, Louis Villarreal and wife Linda, Rudy Villarreal and wife Lisa, Arthur Villarreal, and Marta Villarreal; sisters-in-law, Dora Gutierrez and husband Jimmy, Niki Spicer and husband Terry, and Kathy Vega and husband Joe; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and a host of friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Tres Hewell Mortuary from 5 to 7 p.m. with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church (meet at church). Interment with military honors will follow in Santo Tomas Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ryan Easy, San Juan Arias, Daniel Vega, Jacob Arias, Robert Salinas, Xavier Arias, Jimmy Gutierrez, Jr., and Gregorio Gutierrez.

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.

VITAL STATISTICS

HUCK

Darrell Wayne Huck completed his earthly journey on February 6, 2026, regretting very little in life. He loved animals, sports, a good time, and most of all, his family and friends. What he lacked in stature, he made up for with a largerthan-life personality, a sharp sense of humor, and a gift for making people feel welcome wherever he went.

He is survived by his wife, Cassie; his daughter, Lindsay; daughter-in-law, Kelli Burns; step-granddaughter, Alexis Ochoa; niece, Sue (Huck) Taylor and her husband, David Taylor; sisters-in-law, Judy (Kirts) Allred and Bev (Kirts) Zehr and brother-in-law Dwain Zehr; nieces Kristen Allred, Sara (Allred) Barnett, Emily Zehr; and nephew Eric Zehr.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer Huck; his mother, Lola (Stein) Huck; his stepmother, Lydia Huck; his brother, Donald Huck; his sister-in-law, Mary (Barron) Huck; and his nephew, Donald Huck Jr.

Darrell was born in Evansville, Indiana, on August 8, 1941. He grew up on a family farm, where he developed his love for animals, sports, and hard work. In high school, he was active in 4-H and proudly showed a pig at the Indiana State Fair. Darrell and Cassie met in 1960, began dating in 1962, and married the following year.

HARDCASTLE

Kenneth Lloyd Hardcastle left his beloved Seguin ranch on the Guadalupe River for greener pastures on February 7, 2026. He was a natural born leader and epic hero to his extensive fan club: his siblings, four children, 10 grandchildren, four great grandchildren, extended family, former teammates, fellow employees, neighbors, and most everyone he met. He was known for his sense of humor, work ethic and deep love of family, including those who considered him to be their mentor, adoptive father figure and extra special lifelong friend.

Born on the family farm in Gonzales County, Tx on July 29, 1934, Kenneth was the first son – and second of six children – born to Lloyd and Irene Hardcastle. He spent his early years exploring the pastures and fishing ponds on the farm and in the mid-1940s lived in Belmont and Gonzales. He graduated from Gonzales High School in 1952. Excelling at all sports, Ken’s athletic prowess on the football field landed him a full scholarship to college. He played football for the University of Texas and Southwest Texas (Texas State) University where he met and married Sandra Funk in December of 1956. He graduated from SWT in 1957 with a BBA and began building an impressive career using his business skills for a variety of organizations. In 1959 he began a 35-year career at Cameron Iron Works in Houston that led him to travel the world by the time he retired as President of the Cameron

He graduated from Reitz High School in 1959 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Purdue University in 1963. After serving in the U.S. Army and spending time in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969, he used the GI Bill to earn a master’s degree in animal science from the University of Hawaii in 1971 and a Ph.D. in Nutrition from North Carolina State University in 1975.

Darrell taught pre-veterinary students at Purdue Fort Wayne for three years before working as an animal nutritionist at ACCO Feeds in Abilene, Texas. He later moved into management in Seguin, Texas, and served as President of both the Chamber of Commerce and Texas Feed & Grain before retiring.

In retirement, Darrell and Cassie traveled extensively, visiting six continents, every U.S. state, nearly every National Park, and all but one presidential library. He also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity for over 15 years and Meals on Wheels for over 10 years.

He was adamant that his life was not to be mourned but celebrated. A service will be held February 28, 2026, at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Seguin, Texas, at 11:00 a.m., with a celebration to follow.

For those who desire, the service can be livestreamed at https://www. facebook.com/share/17bUSBaEr4/ .

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Guadalupe Valley Habitat for Humanity, P. O. Box 87, Seguin, Texas, 78156 or the St. Andrew’s Community Garden, 201 E. Nolte St., Seguin, Texas, 78155.

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.

Forge Company in 1994.

Ken’s next job was likely his favorite: clearing and managing his 150-acre ranch in Seguin on his beloved Guadalupe River raising cows and spending time with friends and family until his death February 7.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Dorothy Bruns, brother Richard Hardcastle and wife Sandra Funk and her parents: Eugene and Carrye Funk.

Kenneth is survived by his siblings Carolyn Caraway, Betty Wright and Steve Hardcastle and four children (and their spouses): April and Randy Canik, Kendy and Terrell Gravett, Michael and Sabrina Hardcastle, and Jill and David Wilhelm. He would likely say his favorite job title was “Pepaw” to 10 grandchildren: Jordan and Cameron Canik; Brendan and Britney Gravett; Caleb, David, Nathan and Reagan Hardcastle; and Joshua and Katie Wilhelm, and great grandchildren: Amber and Carson Canik, Maverick Hardcastle and Zedekai Hardcastle.

All who had the pleasure of knowing Kenneth Hardcastle would say he had selfless humility as well as a personality that was bigger than Texas. He was a master storyteller and griller, skilled hunter, a generous philanthropist, loving family man, and practical jokester. He was never idle and therefore lived 91 fulfilling years, building an enduring legacy of love that will live on in the lives he touched across the globe.

To continue Ken’s gift of giving and honor his life and his grandson Carson Canik who is a leukemia survivor, you can contribute to Carson’s Crusaders Foundation ( https://carsonscrusadersfoundation.org/ )

Psalms 115:16 “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.”

FDA Proposes New Treatment Approval Pathway (Washington, DC) -- The FDA has unveiled a new proposal for flexible drug approval pathway treatments that address ultra-rare diseases. The proposed guidance will apply to therapies targeting “a specific genetic, cellular or molecular abnormality.” According to the agency, the framework lays out key criteria for individualized therapies, including identifying the disease-causing abnormality; demonstrating that the therapy targets the root cause; and confirming successful target drugging or editing. The FDA has left the potential for the framework to be applied to other treatments.

Over 200K Items Of Children’s Sleepwear Recalled (Bethesda, MD) -- Over 200-thousand items of children’s clothing have been recalled due to a potential burn risk. The Consumer Product Safety Commission said Meijer, a Midwestern superstore chain, has issued a recall for select MCS and Lullaby Lane branded one-piece footed sleepwear for babies. The products violate “the mandatory flammability standard for children’s sleepwear, posing risks of burn injuries to children.” The specific MCS and Lullaby Lane onesies in question are sized for children ages 12 months, 18 months and 24 months and were made in Thailand. The onesies were sold at Meijer locations in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Kentucky from December 2024 through October 2025.

Fried Rice Sold At Trader Joe’s Recalled

(Monrovia, CA) -- A frozen food manufacturer is recalling over three million pounds of chicken fried rice products. The recalled products were shipped to Trader Joe’s locations around the U.S. and to retailers in Canada. The recall was initiated due to the product possibly containing glass. The recall was reported by the Department of Agriculture last week and involves frozen “not-ready-to-eat: chicken fried rice produced by a Portland, Oregon-based Ajinomoto [[ ah-jee-no-moh-toh ]] Foods between September 8th and November 17th. The items come in 20-ounce packages and contain stir-fried rice, vegetables, chicken and eggs.

2 Social Media Trials Expected To Continue This Week

(Los Angeles, CA) -- Two landmark trials are expected to continue this week in two different states. In Los Angeles, a 20-year-old woman is suing Meta and YouTube over claims they damaged her health by getting her addicted as a young child. In Santa Fe, the New Mexico Attorney General claims their investigation shows Meta does not do enough to prevent the sexual solicitation of children.

&KOE WETZEL TREATY OAK REVIVAL A

February

Book Nuts Book Club

The Seguin Public Library will host its monthly book club meeting on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. and again at 4:30 p.m. This month’s book discussion will be The Woman behind the New Deal by Kristin Downey. As part of the library’s mission to support the reading needs of the entire community, the club offers an inviting space for readers to come together, enjoy stimulating conversations, and share in the joy of discussing books and the reading experience. Participation is free, and anyone 18 or older is welcome to join. Book selections are chosen based on participants’ recommendations, ensuring a variety of engaging reads. You can find the club’s current and upcoming selections in eBook and eAudio format on cloudLibrary. This program is free and open to the public. Please call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.

Guadalupe County to Host Passport Nights in Seguin and Schertz

The Guadalupe County District Clerk’s Office will host two Passport Night events from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 25 at the Guadalupe County Justice Center, 211 W. Court St. in Seguin, and from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, February 26 at the Schertz Annex Building, 1101 Elbel Rd. in Schertz. The events will offer residents extended evening hours to apply for a U.S. passport or ask questions about the passport application process. Services will be provided on a first-come, firstserved basis. For more information, call (830) 303-8877.

Community Action Poverty Simulation Community Outreach People Empow -

erment (COPE) and the Community Council of South Central Texas will host an interactive Poverty Simulation from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, February 24 at the Seguin Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St. in Seguin. The event is designed to help participants expand their understanding of poverty through a hands-on, real-life simulation experience. Lunch will be provided. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP at https://povsim2026.rsvpify. com

. Veterans Resource Round Up

The Veterans Outreach Center, located at 205 E. Weinert St. in Seguin is hosting aResource Round Up event for veterans and their families. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on February 26. It features several organizations that help veterans, including services and support with activities, mental health, employment, education, legal services, medical and county veterans services. Come visit, and ask questions. For more information, call 830-303-8870.

TLU Celebrates Black History Month

Throughout February, Texas Lutheran University will celebrate Black History Month with a series of free events for the community, centered on this year’s theme, The Stories, Songs, and SPIRIT of the Black Experience. The full schedule can be found at tlu.edu/ black-history-month. All events are free and open to the public.

SHS students offer free tax help

Seguin ISD students are offering free tax preparation assistance through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The service is available from 4:10 to 5:10 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays through March 31 at the Seguin High School Library. The program is provided by IRS-certified

students in the Seguin Independent School District Career and Technical Education business pathway and is open to individuals and families earning about $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers. Appointments are encouraged. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Helen Stamper at hstamper@seguin.k12. tx.us

Free Tax Help at Texas Lutheran University

Texas Lutheran University is offering free tax preparation assistance through its IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. The clinic will be held Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon through April 15 at the Beck Center on the Texas Lutheran University campus, 1020 Beck Drive in Seguin. The service is provided at no cost by accounting students from Texas Lutheran University and is open to individuals and households earning $69,000 or less, as well as seniors, people with disabilities, and limited English-speaking taxpayers.

Energy Assistance Available

The Community Council of South Central Texas is accepting applications for utility bill assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Funding is limited and available in select counties, including Guadalupe County. Apply online at ccsct.org/utility-assistance-apply-for-services/ and schedule an appointment with your county office. An appointment does not guarantee assistance.

Continued on the next page.

Geronimo VFW Dance Schedule (Feb–Mar 2026)

Dance the night away at the Geronimo VFW Post 8456, located at 6808 Hwy 123 N. All dances are open to the public with $10 admission/donation at the door. Sunday Dances: Doors open 1:30 p.m. | Dance 3–6:30 p.m. Tuesday & Friday Dances: Doors open 6 p.m. | Dance 7–10:30 p.m. For reservations, call or text 830-305-8829. Upcoming Dance Schedule: Feb. 20 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Cactus Country Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Feb. 22 – Czechaholics; Mar. 1 – Alibis (Burgers); Mar. 3 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Meyer Anderson Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Mar. 8 – Dave Jorgenson; Mar. 15 – Lone Star Pickerz; Mar. 20 – Round Up 4 Charity feat. Randy Carson Band (7–10 p.m., Burgers); Mar. 22 – Nathan Colt Young; and Mar. 29 – Ken Simpson & Bentley Boys.

Seguin Job Shadow Program Invites Local Businesses to Participate

The Seguin Economic Development Corporation and the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce are inviting local companies to take part in the Seguin Job Shadow Program, offering businesses the chance to host high school juniors and seniors for a one-day job shadow experience. Participating students will come from Seguin High School, Mercer Blumberg Learning Center, Navarro High School, and Marion High School. Employers may choose one or more available dates and host different students each day. Available Job Shadow Dates (9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.):

• Thursday, February 26

• Tuesday, March 31

Email Jessica Dersen at jdersen@seguintexas.gov to sign up.

The Savannah Sipping Society Comes to the Texas Theatre

The Texas Theatre presents “The Savannah Sipping Society,” a Jones-Hope-Wooten comedy filled with laughter and Southern charm. Remaining performances include February 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m., and February and 22 at 2:30 p.m. The production

will be staged at The Stephen & Mary Birch Texas Theatre, 425 N. Austin St., Seguin. Audiences are invited to enjoy this heartfelt and humorous story brought to life by an all-star cast. Tickets are available online at https://thetexas.ludus.com/index.php?show_id=200511473.

Laubach Bowling Club Chili Cook-Off

The Laubach Bowling Club will host a Chili Cook-Off on Saturday, February 28, from 1 to 7 p.m. at Laubach Bowling Club, located at 1986 Laubach Road in Seguin. Teams will compete in categories, including People’s Choice, Spiciest Chili, and Best Overall. Bowling will also be available during the event. The entry fee is $30 per team, with registration due by February 18. Proceeds benefit Laubach Hall repairs. For more information, contact Jodi Watts at (830) 822-0608 or the Laubach Bowling Club at (830) 379-9033.

Call For Entries into Elementary and Middle School Art Show

All students in elementary and middle school (grades 1-8 are invited to participate in the Seguin Art League’s annual student art show. All entered works will be judged and eligible for cash prizes and ribbons. Deadline to Enter: February 19, 2026. Get the entry form on seguinartleague.com or call the gallery during open hours Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for additional information.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream at TLU

Texas Lutheran University’s Dramatic Media Department presents William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a magical comedy filled with romance, mistaken identity and fairy mischief. Directed by Professor Shannon Ivey, the production features TLU students, alumni and faculty sharing the stage. Tickets are available through Texas Lutheran University. Show times are 7:30 p.m. February 20, 21, 27 and 28; and 2:30 p.m. February 22 and 27 in the Studio Theatre, Weston Center for the Performing Arts.

Texas Lutheran University is inviting the community to view a new documentary, “Becoming an HSI: A TLU Sory.” The documentary is produced by TLU alum Ryan Anderson and features a look at TLU’s journey to becoming designated as an Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by the U.S. Department of Education. It will be shown at 6 p.m. Thursday, February 26. Guests are invited to enjoy a light dinner and refreshments on campus outside Langner Hall (502 Prexy Street), then watch the film indoors, in the Center for Mexican American Studies. After the screening, Ryan Anderson and others will be on hand for a question-and-answer session. This event is free and all are welcome.

Singo Bingo Fundraiser to Benefit Local Charities

The Seguin Sunrise Lions Club will host a Singo Bingo Fundraiser on Saturday, February 21, starting at 4 p.m. The event will be held at the Silver Center, located at 510 E. Court Street in Seguin. Tickets are $20 and include five rounds of Singo. Proceeds will benefit local charities and Lions Club service projects.

Annual “Taste of Soul”

The Guadalupe County MLK Commission invites the community to attend the Annual Taste of Soul, a celebration of culture, community, and cuisine. The event will be held Saturday, February 28 at the Seguin Youth Services building, located at 919 N. Guadalupe St. in Seguin. Doors open at 11 a.m., and admission is $15. This annual gathering features a variety of soul food dishes and offers an opportunity for fellowship while honoring history and uplifting the future of the community. For more information, email guadalupecountymlkcommittee@gmail.com.

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,