


![]()



Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- A proposed development on Seguin’s west side could eventually become home to a Walmart Supercenter.
The possibility was revealed during Tuesday night’s meeting of the Seguin City Council. The discussion centered on a proposed general land use plan and zoning change request for approximately 180 acres along State Highway 46 at the proposed Pecan Parkway, near the proposed Greenspoint Village subdivision.
Planning Director Pamela Centeno described the plan, which includes commercial frontage along Highway 46, along with residential neighborhoods and additional commercial areas within the proposed development.
“This is the Greenspoint subdivision. So, to the north we have an existing single-family residential subdivision known as Greenspoint Heights. This is proposed as Greenspoint
Village. The portion here that is currently zoned R2 is a portion of the property for the request, currently for the Greenspoint Village. There is an addition to this area on the front that is not part of the Greenspoint development that is already zoned commercial for proposed commercial development. So, the request you have in front of you for the general land use plan and for the zoning to PUD (planned unit development) is to introduce more flexibility on this site to allow a variety of uses as the developer proposes to go forward with this,” said Centeno.
James McKnight, of the municipal and land use law firm Ortiz McKnight, represented the property owners during the council meeting. McKnight says the property owners are preparing for the growth that’s coming to that area.
Delay, pg. 3





(Austin) -- Governor Greg Abbott has ordered a comprehensive audit of all data center projects seeking to connect to the Texas power grid, effectively putting new projects on hold until the review is complete.
In a directive issued Monday, Abbott instructed the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to verify every data center currently advancing through ERCOT’s interconnection process. No project will be allowed to move forward until the audit is completed, and any project that fails to meet state requirements will be denied access to the Texas electric grid.
“Texans must come first,” Abbott said, adding that protecting the reliability of the state’s electric grid and the quality of life for residents remains his top priority.
According to the governor’s office, ERCOT is currently reviewing requests totaling more than 474 gigawatts of new electric demand—more than five times the state’s record peak electricity demand. State officials say roughly 90 percent of those requests are tied to data
center developments.
As part of the audit, developers will be required to disclose whether they are relying on state or local tax incentives or other public financial assistance, how much electricity and water their facilities are expected to consume, whether they plan to generate power on-site, and what steps they are taking to reduce impacts on surrounding communities. The review will also require information about project ownership and controlling interests.
The announcement comes as several large-scale data center projects have been proposed across Texas, including at least two data center developments planned for Guadalupe County. The projects have drawn criticism from some residents over concerns about power demand, water use and tax incentives.
The governor’s order means no data center project currently in ERCOT’s interconnection queue can advance until the audit is complete. It’s not clear if the order would have any impact on the proposed projects in Guadalupe County.
Delay, continued.
“This is right at the corner of the proposed Pecan Parkway and Highway 46. So, this is really proposed to be a more commercial area. That’s what we’re trying to plan for -- is that there is growth coming in this area for singlefamily (housing) and also commercial,” said McKnight.
McKnight then revealed that Walmart was looking to become the anchor of the proposed development. The various uses in the development have been divided into areas identified as A, B, C and D in the plan.
“What’s driving this really is (area) B. So, B is proposed to be a 34-acre Walmart Supercenter, and that Supercenter is now under contract with the seller. But the seller is saying, ‘we’re primarily developing residential. What happens if Walmart doesn’t close on the property?’ So, this is what drove the need for flexibility in this area -- is to say, okay, if we wanna bring this kind of use, but we’re not sure how we’re gonna use it, what can we do? What zoning would be available to us? And that’s why we’re headed this direction is to say residential primarily. You can see everything in blue is either commercial or residential. (Area) A is just commercial. (Area) D is just residential. So, it’s that transition that you often see from highway to commercial to multifamily to single family,” said McKnight.
The news of the Walmart took many in the room by surprise, including some nearby landowners, who said this was the first time they had heard that a Walmart Supercenter was being considered. Bill King owns approximately 90 acres near the site and said he’s been watching the process, but Walmart had never been mentioned.
“I was not so opposed to the A, B, C and D plan because it’s moving from 600 or 700 MI Homes (being built), which allows some more flexibility. I understand that. The Walmart thing -- I kind of feel like that was not discussed during the Planning and Zoning Commission (meeting), and it was kind of slid in here today right before we’re doing this approval,” said King.
The announcement that Walmart was being considered also caught council members off guard and ultimately led them to delay any action on the project.
Councilman Paul Gaytan says they need to give the public more time to weigh in on the issue.
“I think what I’m hearing is there’s not fair notice. None of us knew about it and planning and zoning didn’t know about it, neighbors didn’t know about it. They need to know about it and be able to comment. And it’s probably not the best way to handle this -- just telling us right before you want approval of something. I think you can appreciate that. So, my recommendation would be that we table this so we can get proper commentary from the people that are going to be affected, and they have fair notice to respond, which they don’t have,” said Gaytan.
Councilman Jim Lievens, who represents that area, says he agrees that more time is needed for public input. Lievens says the project’s mixed uses, including a variety of residential properties, could make for an attractive development for the city, but he believes there needs to be more time for public discussion.
“I like the development and what it can bring for our

community, tax base, et cetera. But yeah, I didn’t know what this was going to be. And I’d like a little bit more thought,” said Lievens.
Major roadway improvements along State Highway 46 and the proposed Pecan Parkway would be necessary, but city officials say other hurdles need to be cleared first.
City Manager Steve Parker says staff honored its commitment to not reveal the details of the economic development deal. He says that’s consistent with most economic development projects. He adds that Walmart has a tight timeline and hopes the council and the community can address the issue during the council’s next meeting in two weeks. Parker says he hopes the project is not in jeopardy now that the news is out. He says that’s not a threat to anyone, but it is a reality if things slow down too much.
“Staff did know (about this). We’ve been asked (to keep quiet) for any economic development project. We keep that secret until the applicant wants to (provide) notice of that. This is strictly an idea to rezone land and it could become anything. There’s no definite deal. We’ve been told by Walmart that if the overpass underneath Pecan Parkway doesn’t happen, that’s probably a deal killer and they wouldn’t come anyway. But I know how important this is to the community to have a grocery store on the west side of town. That’s one of our biggest things we hear. My understanding from talking to Walmart is that they have some timelines. They’ve asked us to expedite this. We’ve been through the schedule of how this could happen. It seemed like there was a very short timeframe. So, I also think that this word is going to spread very fast with the neighborhood. They should have their input. They should be able to do that. So, I would think it would be something (we could do at) the next meeting,” said Parker.
The council plans to hold a public hearing on the land use plan and zoning request during its meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 18. Meanwhile, several community members have already taken to social media to share their thoughts on the proposal. Many said a grocery store is needed on the city’s west side, but many hoped it would be another H-E-B. Others said they were simply grateful they would no longer have to drive across Seguin or to New Braunfels to buy groceries and other household items.
The council’s next meeting will be be held at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18, at Seguin City Hall.















Ronald Lee “Ronnie” Mudd, age 83 of Seguin, passed away on July 29, 2026. Ronnie was born on March 13, 1943, in Victoria, Texas to Agatha Evelyn (Hoffer) and Leber Alphonse Mudd.
Ronnie grew up in Edna, Texas, and graduated from Edna High School. He attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos on a football scholarship and excelled at the linebacker and deep snapper position. As a member of the Alpha Psi fraternity, he was voted “college favorite” by his classmates in recognition of his strong character and personality.
After college, Ronnie was a well-liked and respected high school biology teacher, coach, and driver’s ed instructor in Rockdale, TX. In 1970, Ronnie married the love of his life, Kathryn “Kit” (Lyle). After adventures living in Singapore, they ultimately settled in Portland, Texas, where they raised their two children, Miki and Michael.
Ronnie started his career in Workplace Safety in 1971, inspecting commercial and industrial facilities throughout Texas. Even when work required him to travel, he remained present for his family, either in the bleachers or on the sidelines proudly watching his kids play sports, usually with video camera in hand.
Ronnie and Kit moved to Seguin in 2002, where he worked for Commercial Metals Corporation before retiring in 2009. He was an adored “PawPaw” to his four amazing granddaughters and continued his tradition of showing up for the people he loved. He proudly attended dance performances, volleyball matches, barrel races, basketball and soccer games, and countless other activities.
A devoted Catholic, Ronnie was actively involved in the church parishes

Warren H. Soefje, age 83 of Seguin, passed away on August 2, 2026. Warren was born on September 12, 1942, in Seguin, Texas, to Grace Lucille (Behrendt) and Cleburne Soefje.
He proudly served his country in the Texas National Guard part of the United States Army. He retired from the Texas Department of Transportation after 27 years of faithful service.
The Best of Times were spent fishing and hunting, but the most precious were the times spent with his grandchildren. Warren never met a stranger and was happy to just sit and visit with anyone.
Warren is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bobby Soefje and wife Sally, sister, Karen Olson, and sister-in-law, Cindy Elley.
Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Helen B. Soefje; son, Brian Keith Soefje and wife Robin; daughter, Bridget Marie Soefje; grandchildren
at both Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Portland and St. James Catholic Church in Seguin, including Knights of Columbus, church choir, and other forms of ministry. He supported the church through his dedication to fundraising and was known for grilling delicious BBQ chicken. Ronnie also held many leadership roles in the McQueeney Lions Club that served multiple local communities.
Ronnie and Kit built a strong community of treasured friends in both Portland and Seguin. He never met a stranger, and humor was one of his favorite ways to show affection. Ronnie always made a lasting impression wherever he went and never missed an opportunity to make someone smile with a joke, funny story, or a little good-natured teasing.
Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents, older brother Kenneth Mudd, and sister-in-law Vicki Lyle Mudd.
Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Kit Mudd; daughter Miki (Mudd) Gulbrandsen, and husband Tom of Folsom, California; son, Mike Mudd and partner Sarah of Austin, Texas; grandchildren, Madilyn Mudd, Grace Gulbrandsen, Maya Mudd, and Kathryn Gulbrandsen; other loving family members and a host of wonderful friends.
Visitation will begin on Monday August 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Gregory J. Nevlud officiating. A reception will follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall.
Private inurnment will be held in St. James Catholic Cemetery Columbarium.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be the Knights of Columbus Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, https://saintjamescc.org/give or charity of choice.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
who knew and loved him as PaPaw, William A. Stevens, III, Taylor Springer and husband Ian, Connor Soefje, Cody Albrecht, Paige Soefje(Travis), Graham Soefje, and Dillon Albrecht; great-grandchildren, William “Billy” IV, Orryn, Ilo and Alanna; brothers-in-law, Kirby Olson, Jerry Broz and wife Joyce, Robert Broz and wife Peggy, and Roger Elley; sister-in-law, Carol Rodgers and husband Roy; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and friends.
Visitation will begin on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Interment with military honors will follow at San Geronimo Cemetery. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, 510 S. Camp St., Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Memorials Processing, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee, 381059959.
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.












Wayne T. Brantley, age 70 of Seguin, passed away on July 6, 2026. Wayne was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 23, 1956, to Ann (Tice) and William Elzy Brantley.
From the age of six, Wayne grew up as a selfproclaimed river rat along Lake McQueeney. He attended Navarro Schools and was a 1975 graduate of Navarro High School. When he wasn’t fishing, one could find him boating, skiing, or swimming. Other times Wayne was with his buddies’ trapping raccoons and selling the hides. He also liked hunting, however one of his favorite pastimes was spent enjoying NASCAR racing.
As a mason, Wayne was a member of Guadalupe Masonic Lodge 109 AF & AM.
Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Ethan William Brantley, his brother, Bobby Ray Brantley, his mother-in-law and father-in-law,
Adela Conejo of Seguin, TX passed away on July 16, 2026. She was born on December 1, 1933, to Francisco Conejo and Enriqueta Rodriguez Conejo. Adela is preceded in death by both her parents and sister, Frances Conejo McHaney of Seguin, TX. She is survived by her sister, Natalia Conejo Lozano; brothers, Joe Conejo of Tyler, TX and Robert Conejo of Seguin, TX.
Louis Eugene Cockrum passed away July 26, 2026. Viewing will be held Saturday August 8th, 2026 from 10am to 11am at the Crenshaw Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral will follow at 11am at Crenshaw Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be held at Garden of Memories Cemetery. Survivors include brother: Jeffery Cockrum and sisters: Marilyn Jackson,
Barbara and Lenord Coleman, Sr. and his brother-in-law, Lenord “Lennie” Coleman.
Survivors include his loving wife of 36 years, Linda Kay Coleman Brantley; son, Allen Brantley and wife Tracie; daughter, Lacy Kay Brantley and partner, Scott Bauer; grandchildren, Emery, Avery, and Everett Brantley, and Jack Bauer; sister-in-law, Donna Guenther; brother-in-law, Allen Coleman and wife Debbie; numerous nieces, nephews, other loving family members and many friends.
A memorial service celebrating Wayne’s life will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel with the Reverend Audrey Hewell officiating.
Wayne will be remembered by all who knew him as friendly, trustworthy and giving person, sharing his time and talents to anyone who needed help. He will be missed by his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice, 611 N. Walnut Ave., New Braunfels, Texas, 78130.
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.
Services honoring Adela will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Holy Rosary recited at 10:30 a.m. and the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, Seguin, Texas.
Kathlyn Johnson, Derlene Cockrum and Pamela Lackey.
Services Entrusted To: Crenshaw Funeral Home 216 Blumberg St. Seguin, Tx 78155 830-303-2208










Gives
(Geneva) -- The World Health Organization is warning people about the health risks associated with wildfire smoke and offering tips to those impacted. The smoke is made up of a mixture of gases and very small particles, released when trees and vegetation burn. People exposed to wildfire smoke can experience coughing, eye and throat irritation and headaches with the smoke possibly leading to respiratory issues and making asthma worse. WHO officials say if you can smell the smoke, then it’s present and steps should be taken to reduce exposure. The organization recommends staying indoors, don’t use fans or air conditioners that draw air from the outside and wear an N95 mask if outside.
Kansas Woman Describes Battling
(Wichita, KS) -- A Kansas woman describes battling for her life after being bitten multiple times by spiders. It happened in May when Britagne [[ breh-TAHN-yuh ]] Miller sat near a campfire at Cheney Lake near Wichita. It was a bite on her ankle that sent her to the hospital with stabbing pain and severe swelling that required emergency surgery. She says doctors found and removed numerous blood clots and inserted a drain to heal her ankle, but she developed a life-threatening staph infection. Miller already had a compromised liver before the spider attack and after it, she developed end-stage liver failure and was given a grim diagnosis. Two months later, she’s out of the hospital, undergoing home care and waiting for a life-saving liver transplant.
(Fresno, CA) -- California counties are monitoring farmworkers for measles. Health officials say 140 farmworkers in Fresno, Madera and Merced Counties recently arrived from Arizona. So far, none of the workers have measles. More workers from Arizona may arrive soon, according to officials. They say the risk to the public is low. Earlier this year, California had three small measles outbreaks, but all have ended. There have been 53 confirmed measles cases in the state so far this year.
(Philadelphia, PA) -- A cancer-fighting chewing gum, developed at the University of Pennsylvania Dental School, has been found to nearly eliminate human papilloma virus. That’s a virus associated with head and neck cancer. Dr. Henry Daniell says this bioengineered gum cuts HVP levels in the mouth by up to 93-percent and doesn’t seem to harm beneficial bacteria. That raises hope, he says for a safer and more affordable cancer-fighting therapy.

Men with an enlarged prostate now have a minimally invasive treatment option that provides lasting symptom relief and helps restore normal prostate function.
The Right Care. Right Here.




Children who have completed 2nd through 5th grade are invited to attend the free Music Camp at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, Aug. 4-6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day at 416 Dolle Ave. in Seguin. Lunch will be provided, but space is limited. Register online at www.spiritofjoylc.com. For more information, email chris@spiritofjoylc.com.
The Seguin Public Library is inviting readers of all ages to participate in its 2026 Summer Reading Experience, “Unearth a Story.” The free program features books, activities, special events, and opportunities to win dino-mite prizes throughout the summer. Children, teens, and adults are all encouraged to join. Registration is available in person at the library or online at Seguin Public Library Summer Reading Experience. No library card is required to participate. Participants have until Aug. 6, 2026, to complete their activity boards and be entered into drawings for raffle prizes.
Seguin ISD invites families to its 5th Annual Back-to-School Family Bash on Friday, August 7, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Seguin High School Cafeteria, 1315 E. Cedar Street. The districtwide event is open to students and families from Pre-K through 12th grade and will feature
free games, a hot dog supper, resource booths, prizes, and activities for the entire family. Attendees can also meet representatives from Seguin ISD schools and departments while learning about services and resources available throughout the community. Admission is free.
Communities In Schools of South Central Texas is inviting the community to help local students get ready for the new school year during its annual Pack the Bus school supply drive. Donations of school supplies, hygiene items and monetary gifts will be accepted on Saturday, August 1, at the H-E-B store in Seguin and other participating H-E-B locations across the region. Donations will help provide students with the supplies they need throughout the school year. For more information or to make a financial donation, visit the Communities In Schools of South Central Texas website.
The Geronimo Lions Club invites the community to its First Friday Feast on Friday, August 7, at the Red Barn. Dinner will be served from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., or until sold out, with proceeds benefiting the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center. Plates are $20 and include your choice of grilled steak or fried fish, plus cheesy bread, a baked potato, salad, a drink and dessert. Live music will be provided by the First Methodist Church Trio. Everyone is invited.
Greater Second Baptist Church invites the community to its free Community Outreach and Back-toSchool Carnival on Saturday, August 8, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church, located at 208 South Crockett Street in Seguin. Families can enjoy free school supplies, clothing donations, hot dogs, popcorn, games and prizes, plus free haircuts for boys and braids and curls for girls while supplies last. For more information, call 830-4337004.
Continued on the next page. Elm Creek Community Cemetery Meeting
The annual Elm Creek Community Cemetery Association Meeting will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 9 at 1951 Settlers Way in Seguin. Donations for continued maintenance would be greatly appreciated. For more information or questions, call or text 210-414-3308.
The Seguin Art League is hosting a two-day ceramic class, The Little Fisherman, with clay artist Roger Betschler on Saturday, Aug. 8 and Saturday, Sept. 12, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Participants will create a unique fish sculpture inspired by the story The Little Fisherman, then return for glazing after the piece has been fired. The class is open to ages 12 and older. The cost is $60. Register by calling the Seguin Art League at 830-305-0472.
Continued on the next page.



Greater Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church will celebrate the 8th Anniversary of its pastor at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 9. Guest speaker will be Pastor Cornelius L. Bass of Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Creedmoor. The community is invited to attend this special celebration.
Learn the basics of watercolor painting during the Sun Soaked Sunflower Watercolor class on Wednesday, Aug. 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Seguin Art League. Participants will paint vibrant sunflowers while learning watercolor techniques. The class is open to ages 16 and older, costs $45, and space is limited. Wear old clothes or an apron. Register by calling 830-305-0472.
The Seguin Conservation Society invites golfers to take part in its annual Golf Tournament on Friday, Aug. 14, at the newly renovated Max Starcke Golf Course. The two-person scramble begins at 9 a.m. Registration is $110 per player, with entry forms available at Starcke Furniture. Registration and payment are due by Friday, Aug. 7. Proceeds benefit the Seguin Conservation Society and its ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the community’s history. For more information, call 830379-4622 or visit seguinconservation. org.
The Guadalupe County Wildlife Management Association invites the public to its next meeting on Friday, August
14, at the Texas Agriculture Education and Heritage Center, located at 250 Cordova Road in Seguin. A social begins at 6 p.m., followed by a $15 dinner at 7 p.m. and a presentation at 7:30 p.m. Texas Parks and Wildlife Biologist Olivia Kost will discuss New World screwworm best practices, and area game wardens are expected to attend. Reservations for the meal are requested by calling 512-227-2524.
The Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center invites the community to Casino BASH 2026 on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the McQueeney Lions Club Hall. The event will be held from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., with casino games running from 6 to 9 p.m. Guests will enjoy gaming tables, heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, a live and silent auction, bucket drawings and prizes. Organizers encourage attendees to wear their brightest attire. General admission tickets go on sale July 22 for $50, and sponsorship opportunities are available now. Proceeds benefit the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center and its mission of bringing awareness, safety and hope to children and families.
Registration is now open for the Precious Life Services “No Child Left Behind” Back-to-School Assistance Program for families needing help with school supplies. Register online by August 15. No phone calls, please. Those wishing to donate school supplies can call 830-372-5980 for more information.
The Seguin Independent School District invites the community to celebrate the opening of the new McQueeney Elementary School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. Monday, August 17. The ceremony will be held just before the school’s elementary Meet the Teacher Night. The public is invited to attend and help celebrate this exciting milestone for Seguin ISD.
Explore advanced cyanotype techniques during Cyanotype II on Wednesday, Aug. 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Seguin Art League. Participants will create mixed-media images using watercolor, cyanotype, stencils, turmeric and salt. The class is open to ages 16 and older, costs $45, and all materials are provided. Wear old clothes or an apron and non-slip shoes. Register by calling 830-305-0472.
Create a traditional bead and cord bracelet during a fun make-and-take class at the Seguin Art League. Sessions are offered Friday, Aug. 28, from 6 to 7 p.m., or Saturday, Aug. 29, from 4 to 5 p.m. The class is open to ages 14 and older, costs $15, and includes all materials. Register by calling 830305-0472.
To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.



