News Staff Three stolen horses from Ganado are now safe after being found in Victoria County, thanks to quick action from law enforcement and the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. The animals were taken from a local pasture on August 1, prompting a community search. By the next day, officers had recovered them and identified a … Read more
Wharton County Judge Phillip Spenrath has proposed a balanced $39.45 million budget for ’26, with a slightly lower property tax rate of 34.517 cents per $100 value. The plan includes a 3% cost-of-living raise for county workers, more road maintenance funding, and new vehicles for law enforcement. Disagreements remain over how to divide $2 million … Read more
Matagorda County residents are bracing for a seasonal allergy spike as fall’s cooler mornings roll in. Local experts warn ragweed pollen and mold spores will surge, fueled by the county’s humid Gulf Coast climate, heavy rains, and decaying leaves. These allergens can trigger sneezing, congestion, and asthma flare-ups, especially in children, seniors, and those with … Read more
Wharton residents may see a slight drop in property tax rates but higher utility bills under the city’s early budget plans. The proposed tax rate is $0.41319 per $100 in value, down from last year, but rising property values could still mean bigger tax bills. Water and sewer rates could increase up to 10 percent, … Read more
Houston Fire Department is teaming up with Wharton County Junior College to train its next wave of paramedics. Forty-four HFD firefighters graduated from WCJC’s Richmond campus program this summer, marking a 90% success rate for the first class. HFD leaders credit the college’s flexibility and hands-on teaching for the high retention. WCJC expanded staff to … Read more
With school now in session, the Matagorda County Sheriff’s Office is urging everyone to put safety first around buses, schools, and crosswalks. Sheriff Rick DeLeon reminded drivers to slow down in school zones, watch for children, and stop for school buses when lights are flashing. Parents are encouraged to teach kids safe habits, like arriving … Read more
Bay City ISD kicked off the new school year with a spirited convocation celebrating staff and community pride. Former Denver Broncos star and Bay City High graduate Simon Fletcher headlined the event, sharing a powerful message about perseverance and the role local educators played in his success. The Bay City Education Foundation served breakfast, fueling … Read more
Wharton ISD is rolling out a strict new cellphone policy this school year, following a unanimous school board vote and a new state law. Superintendent Oduwole says students bringing devices will get a barcoded, magnetic-lock case they carry all day. The case unlocks only at designated school stations or during parent checkouts. Lost or damaged … Read more
Bay City police are investigating a shooting that left a juvenile hospitalized last Wednesday afternoon. Officers responded to the 2100 block of Sago Street just after 4 p.m. following several 911 calls about gunfire. The victim was taken to the hospital in a personal vehicle and is in stable condition. Detectives processed multiple scenes in … Read more
Students across Wharton County are getting ready for the first school bell of the year. Wharton ISD kicked off classes Monday, followed by St. Philip the Apostle Catholic School on today. The busiest day will be tomorrow, when El Campo, East Bernard, Louise and Boling all return. Faith Christian Academy will start later, on Aug. … Read more