News Staff El Campo will enhance its resilience with a $1 million federal grant, covering 90% of the cost to install permanent generators. The funding, awarded due to severe weather and power outages caused by Hurricane Beryl in July, will equip water plants on Wilson Street, Kentucky Avenue, and Avenue F. This move ensures essential utilities continue … Read more
El Campo is rolling out a beautification initiative aimed at improving local businesses. Through a new grant program, stores along Jackson, Mechanic, West Loop, and Wharton streets can get up to $500 or 50% of their project costs for updates like murals, landscaping, or exterior paint. The city hopes these small-scale upgrades, which address existing … Read more
Bay City Council approved a fifth reinvestment zone to revitalize blighted areas without raising taxes. This tool redirects future tax revenue to fund infrastructure and attract private developers. Consultant David Petit said the zone reduces financial barriers for projects like water line upgrades and building demolitions. Key areas include Highway 35, land near Matagorda Regional … Read more
In El Campo, Korean War veteran and renowned photographer Grady Allen passed away at 93. Born in 1931, Allen was educated locally and served in the Navy during the Korean Conflict. Post-military, he was a champion calf roper and a self-taught photographer, known for his work in major publications like National Geographic. Allen spent his … Read more
In Bay City, the council has approved the annexation of new land to accommodate a new apartment complex and convenience store. The expansion will provide essential services to these developments. The apartment complex faces challenges, including the need for a new wastewater system. However, economic incentives have been offered to help with the costs. The … Read more
Mary Johnson from Tidehaven announced her commitment to Angelo State University on December 4th, in front of friends and family at the Tidehaven High School gymnasium. This comes after a standout volleyball season where Angelo State made it to the Division II Final Four for the first time. Johnson’s move to Angelo State, located about … Read more
Two men from Victoria and Port O’Connor were arrested in Wharton County after a traffic stop on U.S. 59 led to the discovery of nearly $6,000 in cash, marijuana, and a pistol. A deputy pulled them over for failing to signal and noticed a strong smell of marijuana. Despite the cash being in plain sight, … Read more
Starting January 1st, most Texas drivers will no longer need annual safety inspections for their vehicles after state lawmakers passed House Bill 3297. Supporters say the inspections were inconvenient, while critics warn the change could compromise road safety. Although the $7.50 inspection fee will still be collected during vehicle registration under a new name, annual … Read more
Weekend rain showers brought enough relief to Matagorda County’s dry conditions for officials to lift the long burn ban on Monday. Emergency Management Coordinator Amanda Campos reported the county’s drought index dropped to 433, below the threshold of 500 that triggers a ban. However, Campos urged residents to remain cautious, especially with fireworks during New … Read more
East Bernard Volunteer Fire Department Chief Randy Kresta was honored as the annual Firefighter of the Year during the department’s annual Christmas party on Dec. 11th. President J.A. Szymanski presented the award, highlighting Kresta’s dedication and behind-the-scenes contributions. Kresta, who joined the department in ’87 and became chief in ’01, was chosen for the honor … Read more