News Staff Nearly a dozen people in Brazoria and Galveston counties have been infected with flesh-eating bacteria this year, but Matagorda County remains unaffected. The Texas General Land Office monitors bacteria levels along the Gulf Coast, including Matagorda beaches. Despite higher bacteria levels at some local beaches, no infections have been reported in Matagorda County.
Local school leaders assure that the end of federal COVID funds won’t affect student safety. Most districts used the funds to upgrade HVAC systems and for training. No recurring expenses were covered by these funds. El Campo ISD and Wharton ISD superintendents confirmed that air quality systems will remain funded by regular budgets, with no … Read more
Ganado ISD students will see changes this year, says Superintendent Dr. Jonathon Szymanski. The district will strictly enforce the dress code and proper electronics use. Students must park in designated areas, and bus drop-offs at the railroad tracks will stop for safety. Attendance is crucial for funding, and the district will work with truancy courts … Read more
Bay City ISD is gearing up for a country-themed Community Pep Rally to kick off the new school year. The event will be at Memorial Stadium today with gates opening at 5 p.m. and the rally starting at 6:30. Attendees can enjoy bull riding, inflatables, and poster signings. The first 150 people will receive a … Read more
El Campo residents may see higher utility bills soon. The City Council discussed a $1.50 monthly increase for water and sewer rates. Public hearings are set for August 26th and September 9th at City Hall. The proposed rates are still lower than nearby cities like Wharton and Bay City. The increase follows emergency sewer repairs … Read more
Bay City Police’s Narcotics division has seized thousands of grams of illegal drugs. Narcotics Sergeant Joe Bruno informed the City Council about the rise in drug activity, noting many drugs come from Houston and Lake Jackson. Mayor Robert Nelson emphasized community awareness, while Police Chief Christella Rodriguez aims to reintroduce drug education in schools and … Read more
An El Campo family is grieving after learning their missing daughter, Trisha Portella-Wright, was murdered in Washoe County, Nevada. Trisha’s boyfriend, Brent Clifford, is accused of the crime. Trisha, a former El Campo High School graduate and photojournalist, was last seen on August 3rd. Clifford was arrested and is being held without bond. The family … Read more
In Bay City, a man faces murder charges for his grandfather’s death on August 4th. George Paul Goodman, 81, was found dead at home. His grandson, Zachary Weigt, 30, was initially arrested for unrelated assault charges but later charged with murder and evidence tampering. Weigt is held on $2.26 million bond as the investigation continues.
Hurricane debris cleanup in El Campo and Wharton is in Phase III and should finish by month’s end. Rural Wharton County is behind schedule. East Bernard has completed its cleanup. Wharton County is working to speed up rural collections. Residents can email debris@co.wharton.tx.us with their details for assistance. Only Hurricane Beryl debris will be collected, … Read more
The El Campo City Council is considering a potential three-cent tax hike next year, contingent on a property base growth of less than 1%. This follows a disappointing report from the Wharton County Central Appraisal District, contrasting sharply with the previous two years’ growth of over 6% and 11%. The council is also debating the … Read more