Seguin City Council approves Caterpillar as Texas Enterprise Zone project

The Seguin City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, focused on several key initiatives, including the approval of a professional services agreement and the nomination of Caterpillar Inc. for state tax incentives.

The council approved a professional services agreement with Health and Associates, which will evaluate the need for additional lighting in certain areas. This decision was made with unanimous support from council members.

A significant topic of discussion was the Guadalupe Street reconstruction project. The council authorized a professional services agreement with Pape Dawson Engineering Inc. for $1,956,321.88. This project, budgeted in the previous fiscal year, aims to widen Guadalupe Street, improve its pavement structure, and enhance pedestrian access, particularly at intersections near local parks. The council expressed confidence in the engineering firm, citing their qualifications and past experience.

Another major agenda item was the first reading of an ordinance to nominate Caterpillar Inc. as an eligible company under the Texas Enterprise Zone program. This program offers state sales and use tax refunds to encourage private investment and job creation. Caterpillar plans to invest an additional $30 million in Seguin over the next five years, which is expected to create moderate job growth on top of its current workforce of 1,100 employees. The council noted that this nomination is crucial for fostering economic development in the area.

The meeting concluded with a discussion about existing tax incentives for Caterpillar, clarifying that the company currently does not receive any local tax abatements, as previous agreements had expired. The council emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses like Caterpillar, which play a vital role in the community's economy.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to infrastructure improvements and economic development initiatives that aim to enhance the quality of life in Seguin.