Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo) released the following statement after the Texas Army National Guard (TXARNG) reached a determination that it will not establish a South Texas Training Center in McMullen County:

“I am pleased that the TXARNG has responded to the concerns of many in McMullen County and decided to look elsewhere to locate its new training center.  Over a period of years, I have met with McMullen public officials and landowners and worked to convey their concerns to TXARNG officials.  I thank the TXARNG for its willingness to consider the wishes of McMullen residents in its decision making on this issue.” 

“As the TXARNG works to find an alternative location for its South Texas Training Center, I will continue to communicate with both the National Guard and the people of South Texas to ensure that we are striking the proper balance between ensuring our local Texas National Guard can train and strengthen its readiness right here in our own community and taking care to fully examine any impact the training facility will have on South Texas residents.

“The proposed South Texas Training Center would increase TXARNG presence near the border area as well as allow South Texas Guard Members, who currently have to go to Central Texas for training, to complete their training closer to home.  I am glad that the TXARNG has demonstrated its willingness to cooperate with local communities and remain confident that we will find an agreeable location for this much-needed training center.”