News Staff Wharton City Council unanimously approved a hike in utility charges starting October 1. Water and sewage rates will see increases, with the first 2,000 gallons of water now costing $37.95, up from $34.50. Sewage fees will rise similarly. Deposits will jump 50%, with new residential customers paying $150. Seniors will see their deposit increase to … Read more
Bay City is addressing ongoing issues on Nile Valley Road, a vital route opened in ’05 to improve local transportation. Persistent problems due to base deficiencies have caused safety concerns, prompting temporary repairs on the stretch between Roberts Road and Highway 60. This work will involve surface removal and base restoration over three days, possibly … Read more
The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce moved into the old jail on August 1st. They hosted an open house and member appreciation lunch last Friday. The Chamber occupies the bottom area, including two bathrooms, a kitchenette, and an office. The new entrance is on Ed Linn Street, with Erin Harper greeting visitors. There’s also a … Read more
In Victoria, Ignacio Figueroa, 50, and Lee Taylor, 39, were arrested for drug trafficking. On August 13th, police stopped them for a large air freshener hanging from their rearview mirror. A search revealed a handgun, marijuana, methamphetamine, and a backpack with large amounts of meth, cocaine, and Xanax. The drugs were packaged for sale. Both … Read more
A makeshift monument in front of a California art gallery honors Patricia Portella-Wright, an El Campo High School graduate believed to have been killed by her boyfriend. Her alleged killer, Brent Clifford, is the son of Doug Clifford from Creedence Clearwater Revival. Portella-Wright, 48, was found dead on August 15. Clifford is held without bail … Read more
Wharton County is wrapping up debris cleanup from Hurricane Beryl, with Friday as the final day for roadside pickup. Equipment and manpower shortages slowed the process, but four trucks are now working to clear the debris. Residents are reminded to separate storm debris from other trash. For pickup scheduling, contact the county judge’s office
The Matagorda County Historical Commission received a Distinguished Service Award for their exceptional work last year. This award, based on a statewide assessment, highlights their above-average contributions. Commissioners publicly recognized the award at a recent meeting. Last year, historical commissions across the state contributed 341,463 volunteer hours, valued at over $10.8 million.
Joey Angel Gonzales, 25, from El Campo, was sentenced to life in prison for his role in a deadly ’22 home invasion. He pleaded guilty last week in a packed courtroom. Gonzales will be eligible for parole after 30 years. Gonzales admitted to killing 80-year-old Emil James Korenek Jr. during the robbery. Gonzales has been … Read more
Matagorda County Commissioners have rescheduled a public hearing for the Midfield Solar and Storage project after a tied vote on land incentives. County Judge Bobby Seiferman emphasized the importance of not rejecting potential revenue, highlighting the project’s $23 million benefit over 20 years. The hearing is set for September 9th.
A 22-year-old man from Telferner, Brian Young, was arrested for attempting to meet a 15-year-old girl for sex, according to the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office. On August 8th, Young arranged to meet the girl at a Dollar General, but the “minor” turned out to be an undercover Texas Department of Public Safety special agent. Young … Read more