According to the Elgin Police Depa r tment , Christopher Vargas is being held without bond on unrelated charges in the Hays County Jail in San Marcos.

He awaits extradition to the Bastrop County Jail in Bastrop in connection with the homicide case, officers said.

The body of Sonya Martinez Guerra, 55, at 108-A Anderson Drive was found at 12:44 p.m. June 30 when police, the Elgin Fire Department and paramedics responded to a welfare check, according to a city news release.

“Guerra sustained obvious trauma to her body,” the release noted.

Anyone with information in the case is asked to contact Detective Dylan Judd at 512-285-5757 or Dylan. Judd@ElginTexas.gov.

A new summer program for students with dyslexia and other learning gaps is preparing to expand after wrapping up its inaugural four-week session with strong demand for next year.

Chosen Women Empower launched the UnlockEd Summer Institute last month, serving 10 students with individualized academic instruction, including STEM activities, sports development and leadership programming. With no cost to participating families, the program already has 41 students on a waitlist for next summer, according to CEO and founder Chevalier DeShay.

“We didn’t know what the response would be,” DeShay said. “The overwhelming response from families has reinforced the need for this type of programming.”

DeShay added the program was created in response to academic gaps that widened during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for students with dyslexia and different educational demands.

“For myself living in Bastrop County, I have to drive my child to Austin for an education that makes up that gap,” she said. “So, I thought about all the other parents and students who don’t have that luxury.”

The institute combines five nationally recognized educational models into its curriculum —DIBELS 8 for reading comprehension, IXL for mathematics, creative STEM enrichment, sports development and a house system focused on teamwork and leadership.

All of this is delivered at a one-to-two teacher- to-student ratio that allows educators to tailor lessons to child-specific needs.

According to DeShay, the small class size was intentional, based in part on her family’s experience supporting a child with dyslexia.

“The teachers were just as excited as the students,” DeShay said. “The funny thing is we have teachers on the wait list to actually teach next summer.”

Grants, community donations and local partnerships help make the program free for families.

“The funding is truly necessary,” DeShay said. “We need help to step into the education realm and understand that when our children are struggling, it really does cause a health impact, but then it also causes a household impact.”

With demand for the program already exceeding its capacity, the nonprofit plans to expand in 2027 and continue to reach more students across Bastrop County.

“The funny thing is we have teachers on the wait list to actually teach next summer.”

— Chevalier DeShay, UnlockEd Summer Institute CEO and founder

Commissioners voted last week to apply for a federal grant to purchase protective equipment for the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office, over objections from residents who feared the funding could draw the county into immigration enforcement.

The application discussed July 13 targets Category 2 of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bridging Immigration-Related Deficits Experienced Nationwide (BIDEN) program, which funds law enforcement technology and equipment. County officials said the application does not seek funding for detention facilities and has no connection to immigration enforcement.

Applications for the DOJ’s $3 billion grant program opened June 15 after it was authorized under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The DOJ has not released a list of applicants, making it unclear how many Texas counties have applied.

The grant would provide ballistic helmets, armor plates, tasers, trauma kits and other protective equipment for the Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team, which investigates violent crime, drug trafficking and human trafficking, according to Assistant Auditor Nicole Moore.

“Funding can be used to purchase and support multi-year implementation, ongoing subscriptions, training and maintenance of equipment … to address critical resource gaps and enhance capacity to support criminal justice operations,” Moore said.

The county clarified it is only applying for equipment funding and not for the grant category that allows construction of temporary detention centers.

Much of the public opposition centered on concerns the grant’s overall language referencing immigration enforcement could eventually pull the county deeper into federal immigration efforts.

Edie Clark, speaking on behalf of Central Texas Interfaith, asked commissioners to postpone the vote until residents could learn more about the program.

“We have many questions about this, but few answers,” Clark said. “Will accepting federal funding mean that our county law enforcement will have to prioritize immigration enforcement over the other important work they do to keep us all safe?”

Other residents said they feared the grant could increase surveillance technology or pave the way for detention facilities. Critics were sharp with commissioners for moving forward without additional public discussion.

County officials repeatedly rejected those claims.

Moore reiterated the county is only seeking funds for safety equipment and the Sheriff’s Office is due for updated protective gear.

County Auditor Jennifer Pacheco added her office would ensure funds are spent only as approved.

“I can guarantee that these funds will not be spent for a detention center,” Pacheco said. “This is only for equipment for our sheriff’s deputies to keep them safe.”

Sheriff Maurice Cook said the grant would allow the county to replace equipment it already purchases at a lower cost to taxpayers.

“Anytime we can save the county money, we’re looking for ways of doing that,” Cook said. “I would say this would be a benefit to the county, our office and the safety of our people.”

Commissioners acknowledged that listing all three grant categories on the agenda item contributed to public confusion, since the county ultimately chose to pursue only equipment funding — Category 2.

“We’ve clearly stated what we’re planning on doing here,” Commissioner Butch Carmack said. “It’s got nothing to do with detention centers, flock cameras, whatever … We’re using this for safety equipment for our sheriff’s office — period.”

“I would say this would be a benefit to the county, our office and the safety of our people.”

— Sheriff Maurice Cook

Texas A&M Forest Service looks to purchase two helicopters as the first step toward creating a dedicated, state-managed fleet of aircraft for fighting wildfires.

The SUBARU Bell 412EPX helicopters are expected to provide faster aerial response, precision water drops and greater access to rugged terrain during wildfire suppression efforts. The first helicopter is expected to be delivered in December 2027, with the second expected three to six months later.

“Texas families and communities depend on strong protection from wildfires,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement. “This investment in a dedicated fleet of firefighting aircraft gives our responders faster response times and greater strength to contain fires.”

The aircraft purchase comes as the state continues to experience increased wildfire activity. According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, 6,304 wildfires burned 132,366 acres across Texas.

During those responses, wildfire suppression aircraft flew 1,589 hours and made 1,345 drops, which delivered more than 1 million gallons of water and fire retardant. The service said the new helicopters are intended to help firefighters get aerial resources to fires sooner before they can grow into larger incidents.

In 2011, the costliest and most destructive wildfire in Texas history occurred in Bastrop County. From the first week of September to the last week of October, the Bastrop County Complex Fire killed two people and injured 12 more, burning 32,000 acres. Over 1,700 homes and buildings were destroyed, inflicting $350 million in property damage.

Texas has historically relied on federal resource- sharing agreements and a partnership with the Texas Military Department for aerial wildfire suppression. Those partnerships will continue as the state develops its own fleet.

The Texas Legislature allocated $257 million to the Texas A&M Forest Service to purchase, operate and maintain the two aircraft. According to the service, the purchase is the first step in a planned two-year expansion that will add more aircraft over time, including multimission fixed-wing planes and large airtankers.

“Texas is growing, and so is the risk of catastrophic wildfire,” Chancellor Glenn Hegar said in a statement. “These aircraft will give Texas A&M Forest Service another critical tool to respond quickly, support firefighters on the ground and help protect lives, property and natural resources across our state.”

Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief Jared Karns said in a statement that the new aircraft will provide a significant addition to the state’s wildfire preparedness efforts.

“Aviation resources provide tremendous support to firefighters on the ground, including life and property saving intelligence for firefighters and access to otherwise inaccessible areas,” he said.

“Texas is growing, and so is the risk of catastrophic wildfire.”

— Chancellor Glenn Hegar, Texas A&M

A Bastrop County nonprofit has expanded its maternal health program to offer free pregnancy and postpartum support to Black mothers Backed by a rural health grant from the St. David’s Foundation, Chosen Women Empower recently launched Chosen Beginnings, replacing its earlier Empowered Beginnings program, which focused solely on doula services. The expanded program adds health monitoring devices that transmit data through a secure mobile app, allowing licensed providers to intervene quickly if health indicators raise concern, according to CEO and founder Chevalier DeShay.

“Now that we have this program exactly how we want it … we’re already seeing changes in mom’s health and what mom is going through,” DeShay said.

New equipment available includes blood pressure monitors, glucometers and activity trackers.

“The funding allowed us to wave our magic wand and create what was needed in rural Texas,” DeShay said.

Staff also screen participants for social factors such as food insecurity, housing instability and utility needs, connecting families with resources as issues arise.

According to DeShay, one of the program’s early findings has been the need to advocate for younger mothers, whose concerns are sometimes overlooked during medical appointments.

“My team has had to step in to advocate for them to get to a place where everybody is feeling heard,” she said.

The organization has already welcomed its first baby under the program and will continue supporting the family through the child’s first year, helping ensure wellness visits are completed and addressing social needs as they come up.

“We’ll still walk with the mom for 12 months post pregnancy,” DeShay said. With the transition to Chosen Beginnings, the nonprofit looks to further shape its unique mission and identity within the community.

“You cannot empower a woman unless you’re empowering every step of her life,” DeShay said. “Our team is always available. Our goal at Chosen Women Empower is truly to create healthy communities.”

All services are provided at no cost through grant funding and community support.

More information can be found at chosenwomenempower.org.

Elgin’s oldest home is headed into public ownership after City Council recently voted to accept a historic property donation and set the stage for future preservation efforts.

The city agreed to accept the Mary Christian Burleson Homestead and surrounding property from the Mary Christian Burleson Foundation. The move comes after months of discussions on costs associated with maintaining the homestead as part of the city’s park system.

The donation includes $7,000 to be put toward an estimated $30,000 in improvements needed to make the grounds safe and accessible for public use, leaving the city to fund the remaining $23,000 from the general fund.

That estimate only covers making the grounds safe for public access, according to Recreation Program Manager Riggin Anderson, and does not include further restoration or renovations needed for the home itself.

Proposed improvements include decorative fencing around the house, filling two abandoned wells, landscaping, trail connections and signage detailing the site’s history. Filling the two wells would cost around $6,400, while decorative wrought-iron fencing is estimated at about $8,000, according to Anderson.

City Manager Robert Eads said the immediate priority after taking ownership would be addressing safety concerns before any interior work is considered.

“If the intent was to go any further, we would have to find that money if we wanted to step inside and start making those improvements,” Eads said. “We don’t have an assessment yet as to what that would cost or look like.”

Council members questioned whether the city should commit to additional staffing and longterm maintenance before completing its annual budget process.

“This could be an item we take up in the next couple of weeks when we start talking about budget,” Eads said. “A steady hand and a clear mind as to where these expenses are coming from is smart business.”

Ultimately, Councilman Liston Crim encouraged the city to move forward with accepting the donation, citing the site’s historical importance.

“I don’t think we can pass it up in terms of its important part of our history,” he said.

According to officials, any future restoration work and associated costs will be considered during upcoming budget discussions.

The grant-funded County Line Road and Kennedy Street projects are designed to reduce flooding by routing stormwater beneath roadways while widening roads and improving infrastructure. Public Works Director Michael Gonzales said coordinating utility relocations from multiple providers, combined with the city’s own water and sewage infrastructure have been the primary challenges.

“Recent heavy rainfall has also affected construction, as the area’s clay-heavy soils retain significant moisture,” Gonzales said.

About 1,400 linear feet of reinforced concrete storm drainage boxes have been installed along County Line Road, where aging open bar ditches will be replaced with an enclosed drainage system. According to the city, the improvements will help with stormwater collection and roadway safety.

The corridor will also be widened from two lanes to four, with a center median and turn lane.

At Kennedy Street and Central Avenue, crews have completed installation of drainage structures and excavated the future stormwater retention area, though recent rains have continued to slow the pace.

“The contractors are finding in this area that you just kind of move that water out of the way before you can put those boxes in,” Gonzales said. “It takes time and the crews working along to get to that.”

The city has logged about 60 working days of construction with roughly 258 remaining. Gonzales said crews are also in a “discovery phase,” as they uncover older underground infrastructure that predates modern survey equipment.

“A lot of this stuff was put in the ground before survey equipment was common in Elgin,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Gonzales said the city expects to meet the grant’s end-of-year construction deadline, and the city appreciates residents’ patience as work continues.

“We’ve asked our community to make some short-term sacrifices in convenience as we work on this project that will be a long-term benefit for the community,” Gonzales said.

Additional project information and updates can be found at elgintexas. gov.

The newsroom recently shuffled some roles.

Reporter Emily Treadway is now the area editor for the Centex Group, which includes the Courier, the Taylor Press and the Manor Journal.

Former Area Editor Jason Chlapek has switched to the digital editor role.

“Both Emily and Jason are strong journalists with significant and lasting ties to the community and a love for telling stories,” said Thomas Edwards, executive editor for Granite Media Partners Inc., which owns the papers. “They’re both dedicated to covering the news, serving current readers and bringing in new audience members.” While Treadway will have editorial oversight for the Centex Group publications and their related platforms, Chlapek will focus on timely stories for the websites — including www.taylorpress. net — and posting news tidbits and links to digital stories through social-media channels.

“With the changing media landscape, it’s vital for media outlets — newspapers included — to push out digital content,” Chlapek said. “My goal in this new role is to get copy out quickly and accurately.”

Chlapek, a Taylor resident, began his new role July 6. A 20-year industry veteran, he has been with The Press since February 2025.

Treadway also started with The Press in February 2025. She began her current assignment July 6 after serving the previous 15 months as an education and general assignments reporter.

She also lives in the area.

“We already have a great paper and a great team in place. We’re very excited about the changes here and hope the community will be, too,” Treadway said.

For news tips, contact Chlapek or Treadway by email at jason.chlapek@ granitemediapaertners. com or emily.treadway@taylorpress.net or call 512-352-8535.

To subscribe to The Press, email carolyn. hill@taylorpress.net or call 512-352-8535.

The pursuit involved the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Austin Police Department’s Air Support Unit, the Manor Police Department and the Travis County Sheriff’s Office.

The teen, who is not being identified because he is a minor, is charged under juvenile statutes by Austin police with burglary of a vehicle and aggravated robbery; and evading arrest in a vehicle, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and reckless driving by Manor police.

According to authorities, Manor police received a report of an aggravated robbery about 9:30 p.m. Saturday near U.S. 290 and George Bush Street in east Austin.

Manor police spotted the vehicle about 9:40 p.m. on Abigail Fillmore Road, officers said. According to authorities, the driver sped off and drove through the Presidential Glen neighborhood before heading west on 290.

The motorist turned onto Harris Branch Parkway, stopped not much later and was arrested without incident, police said.

Jacob Johns, 43, was taken into custody by Elgin Police Department officers about 9 a.m. July 1 on a warrant from the Bastrop Police Department. He is charged with aggravated sexual assault of a child, a first-degree felony, and is being held in the Bastrop County Jail.

According to Elgin Independent School District officials, Johns was hired as a substitute teacher in January and had been pursuing a permanent teaching and coaching position with the district for the fall.

He previously served as an educator and coach at Cedar Creek High School in Bastrop Independent School District from August 2024 to January 2026.

More on this case to come in the Courier.

William Ewer, 58, died from injuries suffered in the mishap and his spouse, 54-year-old Brenda Ewer, was airlifted to an area hospital in stable condition, according to officers.

The driver of the other vehicle was detained by the Manor Police Department and charged with no driver’s license, officials said.

Authorities said the two-vehicle collision occurred near U.S. 290 and Old Kimbro Road about 4:30 a.m.

When officers arrived, one vehicle was in the middle of the roadway and the other was off the blacktop in a fence line, according to reports.

The driver and a passenger in the other vehicle were not injured and remained at the accident site, police said.

First responders with Travis County Emergency Services District 12 pulled Brenda Ewer from the vehicle before a STAR Flight medical helicopter arrived.

William Ewer, who drove the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident remains under investigation, police said.

The Texas Talent Connection grants, administered by the Texas Workforce Investment Council, support education, skills training and job placement programs for Texans facing workforce barriers, according to officials. Four local programs were among the total 27 recipients.

“The Texas economy soars to new heights because of the hard work and dedication of our young and skilled workforce,” Abbott said in a statement. “These grants will allow more Texans to acquire the skills they need to succeed in high-demand careers.”

Locally, the Rural Capital Area Workforce Development Board received $236,709 for the second year of its Rural Pre-Nursing Readiness and Education Program. The funds will help connect underserved rural residents with employer partnerships and educational pathways toward nursing degrees.

The Smithville Workforce Training Center received $350,000 for the first year of its Auto Works Technician Program.

The center will offer automotive technician training to workers in Bastrop, Caldwell, Fayette and Lee counties to improve the pipeline of qualified workers and employers, officials said.

American YouthWorks was awarded $200,000 for its effort with area residents ages 16-24, offering no-cost pre-apprenticeship training for those not enrolled in school or employed.

Skillpoint Alliance also claimed $200,000 for the first year of its IGNITE project, which looks to guide students transitioning from electrical pre-apprenticeship into registered apprenticeship programs.

“As we train our future workforce, Texas will remain the economic engine of the country,” Abbott said.

Officers discovered the body of Sonya Martinez Guerra, 55, at 108-A Anderson Drive on the afternoon of June 30. An investigation revealed she had sustained trauma to her body.

Police have identified Christopher Vargas, 33, as a person of interest in connection with the death.

As of July 6, Vargas was being held in the Hays County Jail in San Marcos on unrelated charges and awaits transfer to the Bastrop County Jail, where he will be held on a $1 million bond for burglary of a habitation with intent to commit another crime.

Additional charges and a higher bond amount are possible as the investigation continues, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Dylan Judd at 512-285-5757 or Dylan.Judd@ElginTexas.gov.

Families and community members gathered July 4 at Elgin VFW Post 6115 to celebrate America’s

250th birthday with a day of patriotic activities, live music, food and craft vendors, children’s games and a silent auction before a fireworks display capped the evening. The celebration began with a public reading of the Constitution and included a community sing-along and birthday cake honoring the nation’s semiquincentennial, drawing residents together for Independence Day festivities along Old Sayers Road.

Photos by Frank Gagliano

A Georgetown man who failed to appear for a Bastrop County trial on child sexual assault charges was arrested by U.S. Marshals in a remote Oregon forest last week, officials said.

Kenneth Leatherwood, 41, was taken into custody without incident June 23 near Agness, Oregon, in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, according to reports. He had been scheduled to appear June 15 in the 335th District Court on two counts of continuous sexual assault of a child and three counts of indecency with a child — all felony offenses.

After Leatherwood failed to appear, investigators determined he had been working in the Roswell, New Mexico area.

Authorities said he stole a vehicle from his employer, which was recovered June 16 near Agness. A search of a cabin in the forest turned up a firearm, a survival book and personal belongings.

Leatherwood is accused of committing sexual acts against two children under the age of 17, including one under 14, on multiple occasions between October 2016 and October 2020.

He awaits extradition to Texas.

Commissioners approved a contract with Holland & Knight June 22 to provide legislative consulting services during the 90th Texas Legislature, set to convene Jan. 12. The firm will assist the county in developing a legislative priority related to regulations and the ability for counties to better manage commercial development.

Holland & Knight will help create a strategy to advance that legislation at the Texas Capitol.

“As Bastrop County continues to experience rapid growth, particularly in the industrial and commercial sectors, Commissioners Court has become increasingly concerned about the limited regulatory authority available to counties under Texas law,” said Lyndsey Schroeder, executive assistant to County Judge Gregory Klaus.

According to officials, Texas counties currently have little power over issues such as setbacks, water conservation, noise mitigation, landscaping and traffic improvements outside city limits.

“This issue is broader than any single type of development,” Schroeder said. “It stems from the county’s limited regulatory authority and how that limitation can affect a variety of issues.”

The firm will receive a monthly retainer of $8,000 for 12 months, totaling $96,000, funded through the Commissioners Court professional services budget.

An exemption from competitive procurement was granted at the request of Commissioner Clara Beckett.

Schroeder added public attention surrounding proposed data center projects in the area has sharpened residents’ focus on local control and long-term planning. The effort, however, extends beyond any single industry.

Officials said the goal is to find solutions in Austin that give counties the tools to manage growth while preserving economic opportunity and the interests of residents and taxpayers.

EdgeConneX fields familiar water concerns; LPGCD denies partnership claims

Elgin residents showed up in force to EdgeConneX’s first public meeting last week equipped with questions on water, noise and agricultural impacts, though many said they left without the answers they came for.

The meeting June 16 at the North Bastrop County Community Annex brought locals face to face with EdgeConneX representatives as construction continues on the company’s data center campus near Wolf Lane and FM 535 in Cedar Creek. The Virginia- based company has two additional campuses in various stages of development in Bastrop County, according to officials.

EdgeConneX’s stay in the public spotlight has seen both those concerned with quality of life and proponents favoring economic benefits voice opinions. The meeting was anticipated by many as a chance to get the full picture.

The format itself, however, drew criticism.

“I thought it was odd,” said local farmer Tesseva Krull. “This was the smallest area I could think of in Elgin … They told everybody that they’re going to throttle everybody in 30 people at a time.”

Krull said attendees were admitted in groups and that some residents — including the elderly — left before making it inside due to the wait and summer heat.

WATER USE

Groundwater remained the dominant concern among attendees.

Krull said company officials told her studies were ongoing but could not answer specific questions about sustainability and long-term water availability for agriculture and ranching in the area.

According to EdgeConneX, its facilities use closed-loop cooling systems to recycle coolant, xeriscaping that removes routine irrigation and onsite water storage for fire protection.

The company said water efficiency is incorporated into overall site design and it is exploring the use of brackish groundwater — naturally saline and nonpotable.

Information displayed at the meeting stated the company was also working with Aqua Water Supply and the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District to evaluate options that would keep potable water use “as low as practicable.”

The LPGCD issued a release June 25 stating it does not have a partnership with EdgeConneX.

“The district does not agree with this representation and has requested that any references implying such a partnership be removed to avoid public confusion,” the statement read.

The district said its involvement has consisted only of a single meeting with company officials about permitting requirements and approval of an exempt test for an exploratory well.

Krull said many of her concerns remain.

“I feel like the only clarity was that they were saying they’re going to build no matter what and that this is going to benefit our town,” she said.

ECONOMIC BUMP

While many meeting attendees focused on environmental concerns, EdgeConneX’s presentation pushed the economic benefits it says the project would bring to the county.

EdgeConneX figures projected the proposed six-building campus would generate roughly $1.6 billion in property tax revenue over 20 years, including an estimated $287 million for the county, $1.17 billion for Bastrop Independent School District and nearly $200 million combined for local emergency service districts.

The company also estimates the project would create more than 200 permanent jobs with an annual payroll of about $16 million, in addition to hundreds of construction jobs during the buildout.

BROADER DEBATE

The discussions in Bastrop County reflect a statewide debate over large-scale data center development.

Gov. Greg Abbott this month directed the Public Utility Commission of Texas to ensure new data centers help reduce residential electricity costs and proposed additional industry regulations for next year’s legislative session.

At the local level, Bastrop County commissioners approved a legislative consulting contract June 22 to pursue greater regulatory authority over large-scale commercial development.

Lyndsey Schroeder, executive assistant to County Judge Gregory Klaus, said public attention on data centers has sharpened residents’ focus on future planning.

“Residents have become more engaged in conversations about local control, infrastructure impacts, resource management and long-term planning for growth,” Schroeder said.

EdgeConneX did not respond to requests for comment as of press time.

Photos courtesy of Heather Bloom

The Bastrop County Historical Commission will host the event at 4 p.m. at the Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts, 1401 Cedar St. Commission members will read from the Declaration alongside passages from speeches, letters and writings by figures including Thomas Paine, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

Ken Kesselus, co-chair of the program and a Historical Commission member, said the event focuses on the symbolism of the document and how its ideas have evolved over time rather than on the Revolutionary War itself.

“We’re celebrating the spirit of the Declaration of Independence,” Kesselus said. “I hope people will see that it continues to unfold.”

The program will trace the Declaration’s influence from the American Revolution through the Civil War, the women’s suffrage movement and the civil rights era, with Kesselus narrating portions of the presentation.

“It is the continuing, unfolding realization of the words that are in that Declaration, especially that all men are created equal as we have expanded throughout two and a half centuries,” Kesselus said.

The event is part of the commission’s participation in America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the country’s semiquincentennial. In addition to the June 28 program, the commission has organized an essay contest and plans to distribute about 2,300 American flags during Fourth of July celebrations in Bastrop, Elgin, Smithville and Rockne.

“We have 250 years of living into that document,” Kesselus said. “We have to renew ourselves of what it means again and again and again, because it’s easy to lose it and easy to forget it.”

For more information, visit bastropcountyhistorical.org.

The body of Roberto Torres, 78, was discovered June 19 near a ravine close to St. David’s Hospital, 3201 Texas 71, following a search by Texas EquuSearch, the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office and Bastrop County Emergency Services District No. 2. Torres had been reported missing May 20, when he was last seen near the hospital around 6 p.m. wearing dark clothing.

Reports said Torres was diabetic and in need of medical attention at the time of his disappearance. The Texas Department of Public Safety issued a Silver Alert for him days after he went missing, which was canceled May 29.

A cause of death has not yet been determined.

Elgin’s Main Street Program has a new home in one of the city’s oldest buildings, planting its revitalization efforts in the heart of the downtown district it has long worked to preserve.

The program relocated its offices to the former H&TC Freight Depot, 114 Central Ave., as it earned national accreditation for another year as a Main Street America program. Elgin has participated in the program since 1990 and has maintained accredited status since 1999.

Main Street Manager Kristina Alvarez said the move will make the program more accessible to downtown businesses and residents, bringing with it a sense of unity.

“People don’t understand what a Main Street city means, and my goal has been to bring that visibility to the top, so people know what it means and what our benefit is and how it helps the town,” Alvarez said. “It also just gives more visibility that we’re here and we’re doing that work and how we can all work together.”

Alvarez said the location reinforces the program’s commitment to preserving Elgin’s historic character even as the city grows.

“Keeping these buildings intact and keeping that center kind of gives you that safe space,” she said. “No matter how big it gets, you’ve got that spot where you know you can go watch that Christmas parade and feel like your hometown.”

The program supports downtown businesses, organizes community events, encourages preservation efforts and promotes tourism. Looking ahead, Alvarez said the organization is working on new public art initiatives and additional state designations aimed at boosting tourism and community engagement, and encouraged residents and business owners to get involved.

“Come out and see what we’re all about and come enjoy your downtown,” Alvarez said.

Readers normally receiving their printed newspaper on Wednesday will now see the edition on Thursday.

Granite Media Partners Inc., the owner of this paper, has made a strategic decision to shift printers, which means a one-day change in mailed deliveries and availability in racks and newsstands.

Of course, online or e-editions of the paper will still be accessible almost immediately or within just a few hours after production is finished.

If you don’t already subscribe to an e-edition, this is a great opportunity to do so. In addition, subscribers can always bundle their print and e-editions together. Sign up now or do so when you renew.

To learn more, call 512-352-8535 or email cecilia.lopez@granitemediapartners.com.

The Western Days festival, hosted by the Elgin Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, runs June 25-27 and is expected to draw visitors from across Central Texas. The weekend has served as a class reunion and Elgin community homecoming for decades, bringing an economic boost downtown as Western Days evolves alongside its host city.

“We are so excited and proud to present two new activities and bring back one previous event for this year,” said Chamber President Heather Bloom.

New this year are the Tiny Tot Pageant for children ages 3-10 and a Western Wear Fashion Show, both set to run 6:30-10 p.m. Thursday evening at SPJST Lodge, accompanying food and vendor options.

Friday night brings back the Wild West Pub Crawl, with stops at El Maguey, The Owl, Lightnin’ Bar and Millie’s on Main. Pre-registration is encouraged, with signups also available at Carmona’s Western Wear from 6-7:30 p.m.

Chamber board member Ron Ramirez said the signature event and crowd of thousands also means more support for local shops, restaurants and vendors.

“Many local vendors use Western Days in the park as their opportunity to sell their products or pass their messages on to the participating crowds,” Ramirez said.

While the festival has grown over the years, organizers said they have strived to maintain its community-centered feel.

Western Days was once organized through multiple local groups, each responsible for a different portion of the event. As participation from those organizations declined over time, the chamber became the primary coordinator.

“It is a gigantic undertaking which would not be possible without an exhausting work schedule from the chamber president and many volunteers and sponsors who give so much of themselves,” Ramirez said.

Bloom added that community support remains central to the festival’s success.

“Without help from our business partners in putting the money in to make these events possible, we would not be able to put on the festival,” she said.

Organizers said the variety of activities is intended to offer something for everyone.

“From the Tiny Tot Pageant, fashion show, golf tournament, Wild West Pub Crawl to the Grand Parade and shopping for unique gifts, grabbing some tasty food or playing volleyball in the park — we have something for everyone,” Bloom said. “Expect fun and celebration, and celebrating Elgin.”

“Expect fun and celebration, and celebrating Elgin.”

— Elgin Chamber of Commerce President Heather Bloom

The Elgin Police Department is warning residents about a barcode payment scam that has targeted local victims, including elderly residents, through messages impersonating legitimate companies.

According to police, victims receive texts or emails claiming they have overdue balances and are pushed to withdraw cash and make payments through barcode or scan-to-pay methods. Officials said the money goes directly to scammers rather than any recognized business, and the department has already received reports from area residents hit by the scheme.

“These scams often use urgency and pressure to get victims to act quickly,” Cmdr. Todd Johnson said. “In one case, scammers posed as a mortgage company and persuaded a victim to withdraw cash and make payments by scanning a barcode at a retail business center.”

Johnson said one of the biggest warning signs is any unexpected communication demanding immediate action to avoid penalties or account problems. A request to withdraw cash and pay through a barcode or QR code is another red flag.

“Legitimate businesses rarely request payment this way,” Johnson said. “Residents should verify any payment request independently and consider consulting a trusted family member or friend before sending money.”

For those who have already sent money or shared personal information, officials said acting quickly is critical.

“Contact your bank or payment provider immediately and monitor your accounts for suspicious activity,” Johnson said.

Beyond barcode payment scams, the department continues to monitor broader phishing attempts impersonating businesses, government agencies and financial institutions.

“Always verify,” Johnson said. “Taking a few minutes to confirm a request can help prevent financial loss and identity theft.”

The celebration began with the Essence of Beauty Pageant June 13 and will continue with the Juneteenth Recognition Banquet at 7 p.m. June 19, at the Bastrop Convention Center, 1408 Chestnut St. This year’s parade will march down Main Street June 20, beginning at 10 a.m.

The best public viewing area for Saturday’s parade will be between the Bastrop Post Office, 1106 Main St., and Pine Street, according to Shiela Lowe, chair of the Bastrop Juneteenth Celebration Committee.

Following the march, scheduled events include the Freedom Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fisherman’s Park, Street Dance at 7 p.m. on Main Street and the Juneteenth Celebration After Party, kicking off at 10 p.m. in the Shiloh Community Center, 408 Shiloh Road.

Bastrop County is pursuing state funding for a full restoration of its historic courthouse and jail, a project officials estimate could cost $20 million or more.

Commissioners voted June 8 to expand an existing grant application with the Texas Historical Commission after the agency invited the county to seek full restoration funding alongside its original planning application. The county had initially applied only for planning funds, but the invitation followed a $100 million appropriation from the 89th Texas Legislature in 2025 for the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program.

Assistant Auditor Nicole Moore said the invitation could open the door to as much as $10 million in state funding.

“Typically, this program is very competitive, and not all counties get the full restoration,” Moore said. “For them to have some room to work with and to invite applicants that were looking at planning applications is a pretty big deal.”

The grant operates on a reimbursement basis, requiring the county to cover project costs upfront before receiving state funds. Based on 2022 estimates, Moore said courthouse restoration would cost about $20 million and jail restoration about $5 million.

“That’s about three to four million per year that we would have to look at budgeting or finding the funds for,” Moore said. “But again, we only get $10 million total ... that’s a big number and free money, so to speak.”

The planning phase is expected to take about two years, with construction potentially beginning around 2029 if the county receives planning funds and moves forward.

According to the THC, restored historic courthouses can generate economic benefits through job creation, downtown revitalization and tourism. Since 1999, courthouse preservation projects have created more than 16,000 jobs and generated nearly $1.1 billion in earnings statewide.

Bastrop County has not previously received funding through the program.

Bastrop County officials and EdgeConneX representatives are preparing to host a series of town hall meetings to address community questions and concerns about the company’s data center projects in Cedar Creek.

Commissioner David Glass requested the meetings June 16-18 to give residents direct access to project representatives and information about the developments. According to officials, EdgeConneX has three separate campus projects at different stages of development near Wolf Lane and FM 535.

“The county believes residents should have access to information directly from the developer and subject matter experts and have an opportunity to ask questions in an open forum,” said Lyndsey Schroeder, executive assistant to Bastrop County Judge Gregory Klaus.

The meetings come amid growing public interest and concerns raised during recent Commissioners Court discussions, particularly around water usage, power consumption and the projects’ effects on nearby residents.

According to Schroeder, Campus 1 is currently under construction and is the only project with a county tax abatement agreement in place. Campuses 2 and 3 remain in earlier stages of development, and no abatement applications have been submitted for either.

“We hope attendees leave with a better understanding of where each project stands, what approvals have and have not occurred and have an opportunity to ask questions directly to the developer and technical experts,” Schroeder said.

According to Schroeder, a common misconception is that all phases of the projects have already been approved.

“Information regarding future phases may continue to evolve as engineering, permitting and development plans progress,” Schroeder said.

Future tax abatement applications would undergo financial and economic review, including any studies commissioners deem necessary. Schroeder noted Texas counties have limited land-use authority and no zoning authority, but said incentive negotiations offer an opportunity to secure additional commitments from developers.

“These may include provisions related to infrastructure improvements, reporting requirements, water conservation measures, power efficiency, noise mitigation and other community benefits,” she said. Officials said the meetings would be a success if residents leave with a clearer understanding of the projects and the development process.

Meetings run from 6-8 p.m. each day:

• June 16: North Bastrop County Community Annex, 704 Bull Run, Elgin

• June 17: Smithville Recreation Center, 106 Royston Drive, Smithville

• June 18: Bastrop County Community Center, 15 American Legion Drive

The full-time position within the Development Services Department will be responsible for administering and enforcing building codes, permitting, inspections and related regulatory functions. Development Services Director Beau Perry said the city is currently reliant on third-party reviewers and inspectors, which can create delays and limit communication between residents and the people reviewing their projects.

“You don’t have that interface that’s really important to citizens looking to redistribute or invest in their properties,” he said.

Perry said the position has existed for years but remained vacant because qualified applicants were difficult to find. The duties have been absorbed by other positions or distributed among other departments.

“It’s probably going on six to seven years since the city actually had a true building official that can actually represent the city on a face-to-face basis with the public,” he said. “This position will fill that void.”

Officials said the goal of the position is to provide residents, contractors and developers with a local point of contact for permitting and inspection questions while reducing spending and reliance on outside reviewers.

According to Perry, the position would be especially beneficial for homeowners and small business owners undertaking smaller projects.

“They understand the community, they can be here — they can talk to them — they can work through those permitting frustrations,” he said.

The staffing request comes as Elgin experiences growth on multiple fronts, from the town’s first speculative industrial project approved in late April, to local redevelopment and reinvestment.

Perry described the position as an important step in matching city services to Elgin’s continued growth.

“I think this would show that the city is serious,” Perry said. “Everybody can make an investment back to the city.”