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Data Centers in Texas: A Review and Call for Innovation and Regulation April 2026

Executive Summary:
Data centers are increasingly integral to the modern economy, but without prompt action, this industry threatens to strain an over-burdened electrical grid, deplete limited water supplies, raise costs for Texans; harm public health; and overwhelm local governments and utilities. Texas is second only to Virginia in U.S. data center development and is on track to surpass Virginia by the end of the decade. Within Texas, the San Antonio-Austin South-Central Texas region saw a four-fold increase in data center development between 2023 and 2025 and now ranks among the top global markets for expansion. Hyperscale facilities built for AI purposes and cryptocurrency mining facilities are driving this regional growth, and they consume energy and water supplies at a scale that Texas’ regulatory and planning systems were not prepared to absorb.
Data centers already use enough power to supply over half of Texas’ homes and could drive a 70% increase in statewide electricity demand by 2031.
Texas data centers could use roughly 494,091 acre-feet of water by 2030, with impacts expected to be concentrated on the individual communities where the facilities are located.
Because the State Water Plan relies on historical data and surveys, this sudden increase in demand will not be reflected in official planning until at least 2032, worsening an already projected minimum 5 million acre-feet shortfall in water supplies by 2070. Wastewater from data centers may also overwhelm local utilities and could impact downstream water quality. Data centers’ planned reliance on fossil-fuel energy, along with their cooling procedures and general facility operation, could exacerbate other types of pollution and public health impacts in the state. Texas’ data center tax exemptions also cost the state more than $1 billion in 2025 and are projected to cost at least $9 billion in total between 2025 and 2030, not accounting for city and county-level exemptions, even as individual facilities create few permanent, local jobs. No Texas or federal law to date requires facilities to disclose water or energy use, and nondisclosure agreements routinely shield project details from local officials and the public. Local governments and entities lack the appropriate tools to respond to the pressures data centers are putting on local water supplies and utility rates. This paper highlights international and national policies and recommends Texas, its local governments, regional entities, and utilities adopt policies that could serve as guardrails against the adverse impacts of data center development. These include policies to improve data gathering and state and local planning; allocate costs fairly; improve and expand local regulatory tools; limit incompatible land uses; improve transparency; limit detrimental energy and water use; and limit increases in pollution and public health impacts. The paper also recommends data center operators themselves adopt measures to limit potable water use; reduce demand on local water supplies; limit fossil-fuel energy generation and its public health impacts; and demonstrate their investment in being responsible neighbors in their community.

Foreword by Annalisa Peace, Executive Director Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance:
April 22, 2026– It was in November of 2025 when we decided that GEAA needed to dive into the exploding phenomenon of data centers and their impact on our water supplies. Over the past months, each time we thought we could publish, an avalanche of new information had us diving deeper into the topic. Some aspects of data generation, such as crypto mining, are easy to dismiss as a useless waste of resources that should be prohibited. However, weighing the pros and cons of the infrastructure needed to support Artificial Intelligence (AI) demands a more nuanced approach, as this new technology is both scary and wonderful. While many Americans persistently ignore the threats to our planet from climate change, the outcry about threats from super-intelligent AI may be taken with a grain of salt. In many ways, development of new technologies, both by AI and to serve data centers, may presage progress towards sustainability goals that we all endorse. For example, water utilities are using AI to better detect leaks within their systems and to manage conservation strategies, thus resulting in significant net gains of available water. The industry is creating a demand for longer use storage batteries to support solar options for data centers, and many data centers are considering the use of direct vs alternating current to save energy, which could further spur conversion of our energy system to renewables and lead to greater energy conservation. And, instances of marvels to come abound. For example, AI was used to create a new flexible, high-strength, rust-resistant 3D-printable form of steel. Conversely, GEAA’s 21 county service area, and most of Texas, has been in persistent drought for several years now. We are well aware of the concerns of our constituents about locating this thirsty infrastructure in our region. Our local temperatures are increasing and rainfall is diminishing. It could be that Central Texas cannot sustain the energy and water requirements for data centers and still support the growth we are experiencing. Many communities and rural landowners lament the prospect of big, noisy, polluting boxes dotting their landscapes. And they are taking action: 25 data center projects across the country were canceled in 2025, about four times as many as in 2024. Meanwhile, out of 770 planned data center projects, about 99 are being contested by local activists or residents, with $64 billion in projects being canceled. If the addition of the infrastructure needed to support AI is to proceed smoothly, economic equity, stakeholder engagement, policy priorities, and regulation must all be considered. Meanwhile, it is incumbent on tech firms to acknowledge that their facilities can indeed have outsized impacts on local communities, and take concrete steps to address issues of concern. Although Texas passed some laws regulating AI in the 89th session, they did not take up any related to data centers. Given public outcry, we can expect the 90th legislature is likely to consider some regulation, as other states have done. However, how new state laws might be considered, approved, and enforced given that the Trump administration has issued an order that prohibits states from adopting their own regulations is anyone’s guess. Perhaps I am overly optimistic in believing that Texas can accommodate the digital economy without compromising the reliability and affordability of resources for its residents by requiring transparency, incentivizing efficiency, and prioritizing alternative water supplies. Changes to state law that empower unincorporated areas to address the siting of data centers will also be required. Realistically, AI, and the need for attendant data centers, will not magically vanish. So, we felt it was incumbent on us to come up with recommendations as to how data centers might be designed, built, and regulated. We had fun brainstorming and researching this fascinating topic. I hope that you, the reader, will find some merit in these pages. My gratitude and admiration go out to the author of this report, Rachel Hanes, for her persistence, patience, beautiful writing, and good judgment.
The GEAAA is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes the effective broad-based advocacy for the protection and preservation of the Edwards Aquifer.

Local Police report

Natalia Police Report

04/26 – Officers responded to the 2100 block of TX-132 for a Child Runaway Report; upon taking the report officers located the missing child
04/27 – Officers responded to the 200 block of Stallion Trail for an Identity Theft Report. The reporting person stated that an unknown suspect used the caller’s information to apply for unemployment benefits.
04/28 – Officers responded to FM 471 for a report of a vehicle exiting IH35 while throwing beer cans out the window. Officer searched for the suspect vehicle but never found it.
04/29 – Officers responded to the 700 block of Palfrey Street for a disturbance report. The reporting person told officers that a girlfriend and boyfriend were arguing; the girlfriend left the scene before officers arrived.
04/30 – Officers responded to the 20000 block of FM 471 South for a disturbance report. Arriving officers found that no crime had been committed and that the incident was a verbal disturbance.
05/03 – Officers responded to the 200 block of Heather Hollow for a barking dog call. Responding officers saw that the dog was in good health and well cared for with adequate food, water, and shelter.

Devine Police Report

April 24
8:25AM – Female reported missing from Hondo Ave E and entered into NCIC/TCIC. Female was later located unharmed and returned to care center. All okay.
8:31AM – Officer dispatched to Warhorse Dr for verbal disturbance over phone. Phone returned to female; male credit card info was deleted in front of officers.
11:32AM – Officer dispatched to Colonial Pkwy E for theft. Male walked out with a post hole digger and went towards back of store.
19:36PM – Complainant on IH 35 NB MM 117 reported white Chevy Impala all over the roadway. Possibly intoxicated.
April 25
0:10AM – Officer initiated traffic stop on Teel Dr N. Male subject arrested for DWI and jailed.
22:14PM – Complainant on Bentson Dr W reported multiple shots coming from area. Unable to locate.
April 26
5:25AM – Assisted Natalia PD with trailer fire on IH 35 NB MM 127. Officers remained on scene until Natalia PD arrived.
April 27
2:50AM – Assisted Natalia PD on PR 7815 with locating runaway juvenile.
20:42PM – Complainant on Fullerton Dr called in reference to yelling coming from house. Female stepped on nail.
April 28
21:10PM – Complainant on Washington Dr called in reference to two males with hoodies and blanket walking around with possible weapons. Officer searched area but unable to locate.
April 29
10:18AM – Complainant on Enterprise Dr called in reference to truck driving behind property. Officer made contact with complainant; complainant posted sign for no trespassing.
13:17PM – Complainant on Benton Ave W called in reference to door to youth entrance found open and unsecured. Unsure of when it occurred. Requesting documentation and extra patrol.
16:35PM – Officer responded to a two vehicle minor accident on Teel Dr.
April 30
0:30AM – Complainant on Warhorse Ave E reported two males yelling at each other. Both males were walking toward W Colonial Pkwy. Officer unable to locate.
0:52AM – Complainant on Hondo Ave W reported a black pickup parked at side of building. Officer made contact with driver and identified them.
11:22AM – Officer served male subject with eight municipal court warrants.
16:22PM – Complainant on Hickory Hwy reported a female attempting to go into vacant house. Walked up to stop sign and shook it and then walked off down street.
16:27PM – Officer responded to a two vehicle minor accident on Hondo Ave E.
16:27PM – Officer cited and released a male subject on Hondo Ave E for DWLI.
18:00PM – Officer assisted MCSO on IH 35 NB MM 131 with felony stop of red Charger. Female driver allegedly flashed a fire arm at another motorist.
18:11PM – Caller on Coker Ave W reported suspicious vehicle parked outside residence for approximately 45 minutes. Officer made contact and determined it was worked from residence across the street.
20:22PM – Complainant on Renfro reported being assaulted by girlfriend while returning from softball game.
22:14PM – Complainant on Renfro reported girlfriend kicking his vehicle. Officer made contact with both parties, advised it was verbal disagreement. Parties were separated.

Lytle Police Report

Monday, April 27
12:08 AM – 19800 Blk. Doc Holiday – Officer responded to a report of loud music but was unable to hear any music.
3:42 AM – Assist Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office – 18700 Blk. NB IH 35 – Officers responded outside the city limits of Lytle to assist in a vehicle accident. The officers located the vehicle in the tree line without a driver and waited at the scene for an Atascosa Deputy and DPS to arrive.
9:57 AM – Lytle PD – Officer received a phone call regarding a CPS Notification.
10:29 AM – 19900 Blk. FM 3175 – Officer responded to a report that a consumer was voluntarily leaving the facility but could not locate them.
1:17 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to a two-vehicle non-injury accident.
2:05 PM – McDonald St. @ Main St. – Officers responded to assist with a disabled vehicle.
2:50 PM – 18900 Blk. FM 2790 – Officer responded to unlock a 201 Dodge Durango.
3:30 PM – 18600 Blk. Wisdom Rd. – Officer received a phone call regarding his FedEx package delivered to the wrong address.
7:25 PM – 63300 Blk. Hidalgo St. – Officer responded to a report of a female taking pictures of a male’s vehicle.
10:33 PM – 19500 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to unlock a 2010 Ford Fusion.
Tuesday, April 28
3:21 AM – Assist Medina County Sheriff’s Office / Lytle VFD – 16200 Blk. CR 681 – Officer responded to assist outside the city limits of Lytle with a shed fire.
7:40 AM – Lytle PD – Officer received a phone call reporting an accident that occurred on 4/23/2026.
10:45 AM – 14900 Blk. Main St. – Officer responded to a report of two females involved in criminal activity but could not locate them.
1:13 PM – 15500 Blk. Main St. – Officer observed a vehicle losing a tire and provided traffic control until the tire was changed.
1:13 PM – N. Prairie St. @ Cottage St. – Officer responded to a report of a male in a white SUV soliciting but could not locate him.
8:32 PM – 18500 Blk. N. Benton St. – Officers responded to a verbal disturbance, resulting in the arrest of a 29 year old female on an active Bexar County Warrant for a Criminal Trespass Violation. Subject was booked into the Atascosa County Jail.
8:40 PM – 19500 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to a report of a vehicle running over the curb but could not locate the maroon Ford Excursion.
Wednesday, April 29
1:04 AM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers assisted a female in jump-starting her disabled vehicle.
4:09 AM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to a male attempting to enter the store. Everything was okay.
6:40 AM – 20200 Blk. IH 35 – Officer responded to unlock an 18-wheeler tractor but could not unlock it.
2:00 PM – Assist Medina County Sheriff’s Office – Main St. @ McDonald St. – Officer responded to assist with the arrest of an individual who had a warrant.
4:04 PM – 9300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer responded to a verbal disturbance between a parent and the driver of a black SUV.
11:56 PM – Assist Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office – FM 2790 @ Luckey Rd. – Officer responded outside the city limits of Lytle to a report of 6 juveniles walking on the side of the roadway. The officer provided a courtesy ride home to the juveniles.
Thursday, April 30
12:10 PM – 18900 Blk. FM 2790 – Officers provided a bus escort for the LHS baseball team going to the playoffs.
12:50 PM – Lytle PD – Officer spoke to a complainant regarding information on a previous accident report.
1:01 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer was advised of the repossession of a Ford pickup.
3:46 PM – 14600 Blk. FM 2790 – Officer responded to an active alarm. Everything was okay.
5:00 PM – Lytle PD – Officer conducted a follow-up investigation on an open case.
6:05 PM – Assist Medina County Sheriffs’ Office – IH 35 @ MM 131 – Officers responded to assist with a traffic stop.
7:39 PM – Lytle PD – Officer spoke to a female regarding suspicious text messages.
8:09 PM – 15300 Blk. Main St. – Officers responded to an unwanted guest. Everything was okay.
Friday, May 01
7:25 AM – 20100 Blk. IH 35 – Officer responded to an active alarm. Everything was okay.
9:23 AM – Assist Atascosa EMS – 19300 Blk. S. Somerset St. – Officer responded to assist a patient having a medical emergency.
10:17 AM – 14800 Blk. Starcross Trail – Officer spoke to a resident regarding harassing phone calls.
11:34 AM – Pine St. & N. Prairie St. – Officer was informed that the train was disabled and was blocking the railroad crossings.
3:01 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers responded to a call about an unwanted customer who had been involved in prior thefts.
5:45 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officer assisted in jump-starting a Chevrolet Tahoe.
6:01 PM – 19300 Blk. McDonald St. – Officers responded to a report of shoplifting. A 20 year old male and an 18 year old male were both cited and released for theft under $100. The merchandise was recovered.
8:35 PM – IH 35 Frontage Rd. @ FM 2790 – Officer initiated a traffic stop on a 2023 Toyota Camry that resulted in a pursuit. The officer canceled the short pursuit for public safety.
Saturday, May 02
10:45 AM – 19700 Blk. IH 35 – Officers responded to a two-vehicle non-injury accident.
12:05 PM – 63000 Blk. Cortez St. – Officer responded but was unable to locate the vehicle.
11:47 AM – Lake Crest @ Lakeview Dr. – Officer responded to a report of a vehicle following them. Everything was okay.
12:00 PM – 63000 Blk. Cortez St. – Officer responded to a report of suspicious activity but was unable to locate the vehicle.
1:13 PM – 20200 Blk. NB IH 35 Frontage Rd. Blk. – IH 35 Officers responded to a two-vehicle non-injury accident.
2:52 PM – Assist Lytle VFD – 19600 Blk. Gray St. – Officer responded to assist with a smell of burning wires and discovered a burnt LED bulb causing the odor.
5:17 PM – Assist Atascosa EMS – 15400 Blk. Houston St. – Officer responded to assist a patient having a medical emergency.
8:05 PM – 14800 Blk. Main St. – Officer initiated a traffic stop for an expired motor vehicle registration that resulted in the 2001 Chevrolet Suburban being towed for an expired MVR, an expired driver’s license, and no insurance.
9:15 PM – 15300 Blk. Main St. – Officer conducted a follow-up on an open investigation.
10:10 PM – 15400 Blk. Main St. – Officer responded to a report of a homeless male sleeping and asked him to leave.
11:16 PM – IH 35 NB @ MM 133 – Officer responded to a report of a reckless driver and could not locate the vehicle.
Sunday, May 03
2:22 AM – Assist Texas DPS – Main St. @ Bank St. – Officers assisted with a DWI traffic stop.
10:10 AM – IH 35 SB @ MM 133 – Officers assisted a female motorist who ran out of gas.
11:42 AM – Assist Atascosa EMS –15300 Blk. Main St. – Officers responded to assist a patient having a medical emergency.
3:48 PM – Railroad St. @ S. Somerset St. – Officer initiated a traffic stop for an expired motor vehicle registration, which resulted in the felony arrest of a 29 year old male for Manufacturing and Delivery of a Controlled Substance. Subject was in possession of 95 Grams of methamphetamine and was booked into the Atascosa County Jail.
10:30 PM – 18600 Blk. N. Benton St. – Officer responded to a report of a Ford Mustang with a loud exhaust but could not locate it.
11:12 PM – 19700 Blk. IH 35 – Officer responded to a report of a trailer fire. Upon arrival, the officer discovered a power washer that uses fire to heat the water. Everything was okay.

Upcoming local events

May
6 – Purpose Women’s Conference at Natalia Corinth Baptist Church from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
6 – Lytle Public Library Story Time ages 2-5 from 10:30-11 a.m.
7 – Special Presentation: A Journey with the Shroud of Turin from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at St. John Bosco Mission Church Natalia, TX
7 – Lytle Public Library Craft With Us from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
7 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Crafting After Hours from 6 – 8 p.m. | Registration Required
7 – Live Music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Damon Curtis at 7 p.m.
8 – Plant Swap at the Devine Driscoll Public Library from 2 -3 p.m.
8 – Mother’s Day Pet Adoption Event & Bake Sale at Lytle Animal Shelter from 12 – 3 p.m.
8 – Lytle ISD Wellness Fair at Lytle Jr. High Gym from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
8 – Lytle VFW Karaoke Night at 7 p.m.
9 – Teen ACTS Bake Sale Fundraiser at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
9 – Mother’s Day Market at My Time at The Garden from 5 – 10 p.m.
9 – Mother’s Community Resource Fair at St. Paul Community Center from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
9 – Spring Fling Artisan Market at the Poteet Grange Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
10 – Lytle VFW Bingo | Card Sales 2 p.m. | Early Bird 2:30 p.m. | Game Starts 3 p.m.
12 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Preschool Story Time at 10:30 a.m. | Registration Required
13 – Lytle Public Library Story Time ages 2-5 from 10:30-11 a.m.
13 – Storytime with Jamie Lin Wilson at the Castroville Rainbow Theater with special guest Wade Bowen at 7 p.m.
13 – Stitch Club at the Devine Driscoll Public Library from 6 – 7:30 p.m. | Registration Required
14 – Live Music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring JJ Villarreal at 7 p.m.
14 – Lytle Public Library Craft With Us from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
16 – Live Music at Billy’s Dining & Dancing featuring Kelbi Lynn Winters & Steven Mireles from 9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
16 – Moon & Makers Market at Dahlgreen Somerset TX from 5 – 11 p.m.
16 – Get Up Girl Women Conference at 111 A South Teal Devine Tx 78016 at 8:30 a.m.
16 – Spring Pop-Up Market at Pleasanton Saint Andrew Parish Hall at 10 a.m.
17 – Blackie Boehme Tournament at Devine Golf Course at 12 p.m. tee time
19 – Regular Devine City Council Meeting at Devine Community Center at 6 p.m.
19 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Preschool Story Time at 10:30 a.m. | Registration Required
19 – Embroidery Club at Devine Driscoll Public Library from 5:30 – 7 p.m. | Registration Required
20 – Lytle Public Library Story Time ages 2-5 from 10:30-11 a.m.
21 – Lytle Public Library Craft With Us from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
21 – Live Music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Grant Ewing at 7 p.m.
21 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Planner Club from 5 – 6:30 p.m. | Registration Required
21 – I Know What You Did Last Summer at Roosters Icehouse at 7 p.m.
23 – Inner Ritual and Co Pilates Class at Texicana Boutique at 9 a.m.
23 – Lunch Opening at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Garrett Talamantes at 3 p.m.
23 – Live Music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Kade Isakson at 7 p.m.
24 – Spring/Summer U-Picks at Petále Haus Flopral Design at 9:30 a.m.
25 – Dia de Los Warriors at Dahlgreen Food Truck Park Somerset at 12 p.m.
26 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Preschool Story Time at 10:30 a.m. | Registration Required
27 – Collage Club at the Devine Driscoll Public Library from 5:30 – 7 p.m. | Registration Required
27 – Lytle Public Library Story Time ages 2-5 from 10:30-11 a.m.
28 – Devine Driscoll Public Library Crafting After Hours from 6 – 8 p.m. | Registration Required
28 – Lytle Public Library Craft With Us from 5:30 – 7 p.m.
28 – Live Music at Cora’s 471 Grill featuring Matt Kirk at 7 p.m.
30 – Lytle VFW Comedy Night featuring Patrick Christopher, Danny Ingle, Dallas Vann from 7 – 10 p.m.
30 – 2nd Annual Seed & Soil Scramble Tournament at the Castroville Alsatian Golf Club at 8:30 a.m.
June
3 & 4 – Free Summer Kid Movie Series at Castroville Rainbow Theater showing Bad Guys 2 at 10:30 a.m.
6 – Yard Sale at St. John Bosco Church Hall from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
10 & 11 – Free Summer Kid Movie Series at Castroville Rainbow Theater showing How to Train Your Dragon at 10:30 a.m.
13 – City of Devine Flag Day Celebration at Briscoe City Park
17 & 18 – Free Summer Kid Movie Series at Castroville Rainbow Theater showing Gabby’s Dollhouse at 10:30 a.m.
24 & 25 – Free Summer Kid Movie Series at Castroville Rainbow Theater showing Dog Man at 10:30 a.m.
If you want to add an event to this calendar, please email devinereporter@devinenews.com or call (830) 665 – 2211 and leave a message for Brianna.

Domingo L. Cruz Sr.

Domingo L. Cruz Sr. went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the age of 84 in his home in San Antonio, Texas. Domingo was born on July 13, 1941 to Daniel and Luisa Cruz in Devine, Texas.
Domingo was a loving husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, and friend. He was a hard-working man who dedicated 30+ years to working for the San Antonio Express-News. He enjoyed the little things like a hot cup of coffee, Dr. Pepper, watching Family Feud, and watching old western shows. He took pride in growing his own vegetables and was passionate about the Spurs and Cowboys. He was at his happiest while with family, listening to music, and playing games like Loteria. He loved his dog Gorda. He was loved and adored by his community and was simply known as “Grandpa” to many.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Luisa Cruz; loving wife of 60 years, Anita Maldonado Cruz; son Marcello Perez, daughter-in-law Bonnie Perez, daughter Alma Vasquez; granddaughter Yolanda Marie Perez; great-granddaughter Hope Chavez; sister Maria Cruz, and brother Pablo Cruz.
He is survived by his son Domingo Cruz Jr. and daughter-in-law Lupita Cruz; grandchildren Marcello Perez Jr., Elizabeth Vasquez (Chris), Roxanne Martin (James), Vanessa Chavez (Lorenzo), Clarissa Lazo (Quentin), Alyssa Cruz, Marissa Cruz; great-grandchildren Samantha Espinoza, Marcello Perez III, Nikolaus Espinoza, Abel Perez, Ezekiel Lazo; brothers Estevan Cruz, Benito Cruz, sister Rosa Flores; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM with a Rosary recited at 7:00 PM at Primrose Funeral Services of Devine, Texas. Mass will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with interment to follow in Moore Catholic Cemetery.
Anyone wishing to leave condolences, share memories or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.primrosefuneralservices.com Arrangements are under the direction of Primrose Funeral Services, 303 W College Ave., Devine, Texas 78016, (830) 663-4445.

Dorothy Harris Banks

Dorothy Harris Banks, age 96, of Arlington, Texas, went to be with the Lord on April 26, 2026. She was born in Moore, Texas, on October 28, 1929, to parents Denman and Loretta (Evans) Harris.
Dorothy graduated from Devine High School in 1947, embarking initially on a career as a telephone operator. But it was her marriage to Jack Banks on February 10, 1948, that truly shaped her life’s path. With the birth of their son the following year, Dorothy embraced her role as a homemaker and stay-at-home mother, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to her family until 1968. She then carried her nurturing spirit into a meaningful career with the City of Devine, where she worked diligently until 1985.
From a young age, Dorothy’s life was deeply intertwined with music and service. She and her brother Elmer shared a love for melody—she at the piano, and he at the violin—both nurturing their talents through countless hours of practice and performance. Dorothy’s passion for music was more than a pastime; it was a gift she generously imparted as a piano teacher to family and friends. Her involvement with the First Baptist Church in Devine, Texas, was an extension of her heart’s devotion—volunteering, participating in Vacation Bible School, and offering the gentle harmonies of her piano playing to uplift the children.
Dorothy’s heart was expansively open to those in need. She was always ready to offer comfort and assistance, embodying patience, forgiveness, and generosity. Her friends and family remember her for the countless meals lovingly prepared for others—her way of showing care when words were not enough. Those closest to her recall her as the epitome of kindness and strength, someone who always put God foremost, family next, and herself last.
Dorothy’s leisure moments were rich with joy and shared experiences. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, quilting, and fishing alongside Jack and their family. Their love story was punctuated by laughter and dance, as she taught Jack the art of country dancing. Retirement saw the couple embrace adventure, traveling in their RV across Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado, creating treasured memories. Cruises and vacations with Bobby and Mary were yet another chapter of joy and connection.
Among her proudest accomplishments was not only the birth of her beloved son but also a marriage that sustained seven decades—seventy years filled with shared dreams, mutual respect, and enduring love. To her family, especially her daughter-in-law Mary, Dorothy was more than a mother-in-law; she was a second mother, a constant source of warmth and support.
Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents, Denman and Loretta (Evans) Harris; husband, Jack E Banks; son, Bobby G Banks; and brother, Elmer and wife Margie Harris.
Dorothy is survived by her daughter-in-law, Mary Banks of Arlington, Texas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and family.

Yolanda (Villarreal) Vasquez

With a heart full of gratitude and sorrow, we are announcing the end of life of our beloved Yolanda (Villarreal) Vasquez, who took her final bow – surrounded by her loving children and husband on February 11, 2026, at the age of 80.
Yolanda was a devoted,
daughter to the late Guadalupe & Leonila Mota Villarreal;
sister to her late brothers Lionel & Guadalupe (Junior) Villarreal;
sister to Tereasa Salazar and Gloria Cantu;
wife to Liborio R. Vasquez Jr., her husband for 60 years;
a proud and guiding mother of her son – Robert, two sets of twin daughters Adriana & Norma and Gloria & Dolores (deceased at birth);
grandmother to Leeroy Dominguez, Lindsey Hope, April Renae and Alexandar James Vasquez, Eric Alan & Jake Ryan Burris;
mother-in-law to Rosalinda Vasquez and Alan Thomas Burris; and
loved one to an abundance of cats (her first and favorite Blondie), family and friends.
She began her life from humble beginning but built a life defined by self-reliance, independence and a deep devotion to family and service to others. Her extraordinary beauty, strength, and unspoken love, is a silent force that taught resilience, sacrifice, and unconditional support through actions rather than words will be forever remembered and revered.
Her talents were many: a seamstress with the patience of a saint and the precision of a surgeon, her keen eye and attention for detail like an artist painting a Picasso. She loved to cook decadent food, especially for Thanksgiving without missing any courses from main dishes down to the last bite of dessert.
She also dedicated her life to service by working in the housing industry. She managed and assisted people of all ages of life, from the young adults living in the Housing Authority in Pearsall and Dilley to the elderly with monthly rent paperwork for the elderly retirement housing communities in Pearsall and Devine. She raised and lived all her life in Pearsall, Texas with the last few years living in San Antonio, Texas.
She was a real beauty with brown hair and a smile that could light up the night sky and sometimes scorch it depending on who needed to be put in their place. She was as sharp as a samurai sword and just as precise. She lived life exactly on her terms: no shortcuts, no nonsense, no ifs ands or buts about it, never out of step with her own style.
She conveyed safety, strength, and constant presence, shaping character through daily, selfless acts. These unspoken lessons often included quiet endurance in adversity, unwavering belief in her children, and the importance of nurturing compassion. She was complex. She was funny. She was tough. She was magnificent. She was absolutely one of a kind. And though this world feels a little dimmer without her in it, we carry her with us-in our hibiscus flowers, fierce independence, our cooking, and in the way we show up for the people we love.
She is survived by a legacy of strength, compassion, and unforgettable charm and leaves behind not just her husband, children, grandchildren and extended family – but also a blueprint of living with courage, humor and grace. She showed us how to find our own voice, how to face challenges with resilience, and how to stand tall in the face of adversity.
Her spirit lives on in those she guided, nurtured, and cheered on. To know her was to be seen, to be remembered, and to be loved. Yolanda V. Vasquez, you were truly a once in a lifetime woman. We promise to keep the legacy going with love, laughter and memories of you.

Andrew H. Zapata

Andrew H. Zapata (Butch), a cherished longtime resident of Devine and Big Foot Texas, passed away on April 21, 2026, he was born on January 6, 1946, in Devine, Texas. Andrew’s life was marked by his unwavering dedication and love to his family and many friends in the community. He was known as a hard working man who lived with his heart and purpose. Andrew is lovingly remembered by his children: Laura Ann Zapata of Natalia, Juanita Zapata of Natalia, and Andrew Zapata Jr. along with his wife Dawn of Pipe Creek, Texas. He took great pride and joy in his grandchildren: Jordan Ashley Zapata, Andrew Quentin Zapata, and Aiden Charles Zapata. His family circle extended warmly to numerous nieces and nephews. Andrew was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Delia L. Zapata, and his parents, Frank Zapata and Gregoria Goya Zapata. He also mourned the loss of many cherished siblings: Adolfo Garcia, Adelfa Castillo, Ernestina Castillo, Linda Garza, Frances Kika Martinez, Maria Zapata, Frank Zapata, Ray Zapata, Johnny Zapata, Mary Perez, Stella Garza, Joe Zapata, along with is surviving brother Sammy Zapata Garza.
A celebration of Andrew’s life will be held on May 9, 2026, with an inurnment service beginning at 10:00 a.m. at St Joseph’s Cemetery located on Allman Cemetery Lane in Devine, Texas. Andrew H. Zapata’s memory endures through the love and strength of his family, friends, and the community he called home. He will be deeply missed and forever honored
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Andrew H. Zapata, please visit our flower store.

Warhorse Track and Field Regional Runner-Up!

Devine Warhorses Alex Garcia-Castillo, Rowdy Esparza, Mikey Rodriguez and Ryan Weinkam will be competeing in the 4×400 relay race at state!

Jerel Beaty
Staff writer
The entire Regional-Qualifying Warhorse Track and Field team had terrific outings under cool and rainy conditions last week in Kingsville as twelve student-athletes combined to pull out a second place finish.
Devine scored 64 points in the team standings, only six points behind champion Lago Vista who posted 70 points. Austin Johnson was a distant third place with 48 points.
Seven Warhorses qualified for the State Track and Field Meet in Austin on Thursday, March 14 with Rowdy Esparza leading the way in three events.
Esparza won Region IV in Long Jump and was runner up in both the 400m Dash and Mile Relay along with Alex Garcia-Castillo, Zach Guerra, Mikey Rodriguez, and Ryan Weinkam
Karter Brown was the region silver medalist in Shot Put as was Bo Wheeler in High Jump.
Others contributing to the Warhorses fantastic showing at Texas A&M Kingsville were Enoch Hall, Esai Sanchez, Lucas Hudson, Brody Lane, and Jonathan Cantu also finished their great year as Regional Qualifiers.
Congratulations to Head Coach Lon Cozby, his assistants, and all Warhorse track and field regional qualifiers and best of luck at State!…LOGIN TO CONTINUE READING at www.devinenewsmembers.com. You will get instant access to our full E-edition, and begin getting the newspaper delivered to your home next week for $36 a year in Medina County. Support important local city, county, and school news like this!

Arabian Track & Field 11th at Regional; Rylie Wells is STATE BOUND!

Arabian Rylie Wells will represent Devine in the triple jump event at state after coming in second during the regional qualifiers. Photo by Moose Lopez.

Jerel Beaty
Staff writer
Scoring 23 points at a Regional Track and Field Meet is nothing to sneeze at as the Arabian team placed 11th overall out of 29 schools represented in Kingsville last week. Under the cool, rainy skies Rylie Wells earned her way to a State Qualifier berth in Triple Jump as she placed second with a jump of 38 feet six and one half inches.
Eight Arabians in all competed with each giving all they had in trying to advance to the final meet of the season inside Mike A. Myers Stadium in Austin.
In addition to Wells, Kylie Monreal, Kenzie Schott, Peyton Dixon-Davis, Ivy Stricker, and Caroline Suhr represented the Arabian program phenomenally all season long and their efforts at Regional was no different.
Congratulations to all Arabian track athletes as well as Head Coach Lon Cozby and each of his assistant coaches!
Best of luck at State, Rylie!…LOGIN TO CONTINUE READING at www.devinenewsmembers.com. You will get instant access to our full E-edition, and begin getting the newspaper delivered to your home next week for $36 a year in Medina County. Support important local city, county, and school news like this!

Pirate Track & Field 4th in Region IV;Cantu, Garcia, & Hicks are STATE BOUND!

Jerel Beaty
Staff writer
Ten Pirate Track and Field student-athletes combined to score 28 points at last week’s Class 3A Region IV Meet in Seguin to secure a fourth place finish. There were 34 different schools represented.
Three of those 10 now move on as State Qualifiers after senior Jewell Hicks won the 400m Dash, Jacob Cantu won the 1600m, and Sebastian Garcia earned the Wild Card spot in the 800m Run after finishing third in the region but having the next best qualifying time from across the state.
Others competing at a high level not only at Regional but throughout the 2026 season were Adrian Reyna, Diego Reyna, Clayton Jopling, Noah Smoot, Angel De La Rosa, and Christopher Jacques.
Congratulations to all Pirate athletes and to Head Coach Sebastian Benavides and best of luck to Jewell, Jacob, and Sebastian at State!…LOGIN TO CONTINUE READING at www.devinenewsmembers.com. You will get instant access to our full E-edition, and begin getting the newspaper delivered to your home next week for $36 a year in Medina County. Support important local city, county, and school news like this!