Library Hosting Book Signing

The El Campo Branch Library will host a book signing and reading by William Sturkey, author of “The Ballad of Roy Benavidez,” on July 1st at 6 p.m. The book covers the life of Medal of Honor recipient Roy Benavidez, a celebrated Hispanic veteran. The event, located at 200 W. Church, El Campo, will include … Read more

Planning & Zoning Commission

El Campo is starting to update its city plan this Wednesday. The Planning & Zoning Commission will review changes to local building rules. The public can attend the meeting at City Hall, but it’s a workshop, so no public comments or final decisions are expected yet. The meeting starts at 4:30 p.m. at City Hall, … Read more

Local Sales Tax Boost

In El Campo and Wharton, unexpected sales tax revenue is boosting city budgets. El Campo’s June sales tax check increased by nearly 28%, helping fund city projects without raising property taxes. Wharton’s sales tax gains are also significant, even as they plan conservatively for the future. Both cities are using these funds for essential services … Read more

Drone Pilot Academy

Twenty-one students graduated from Victoria College’s Drone Pilot Academy, mastering safe drone flying. The college is now inviting 9th to 12th graders with good grades in math and science to join a week-long drone flying course this July, free of charge thanks to a state grant. Applications are open until July 17.

Akins Promoted

Keith Akins, a criminal justice professor at the University of Houston-Victoria, is set to lead the Faculty Senate. He aims to boost in-person learning and faculty-student bonds. Akins, serving his third term, believes real-life interactions are key to success. He also seeks to mend faculty-administration ties for a united academic community. His predecessor, Humberto Hernandez, … Read more

ALERRT Training

The Wharton County Sheriff’s Office has recently conducted ALERRT training at Boling ISD. This training prepares officers for active shooter situations. Sheriff Shannon Srubar highlighted the importance of readiness and praised the five certified ALERRT instructors in his team. Thanks to them, the training can be done locally, saving time and resources.

National High School Finals Rodeo

Craig Sciba, a sophomore from Victoria West, is set to compete in the National High School Finals Rodeo for steer wrestling in Wyoming. This event is known as the world’s largest rodeo, with over 1,700 participants from various countries vying for substantial prizes and college scholarships. The top performers will battle for the world champion … Read more

Board hires JCA Law

Victoria’s school board is working with JCA Law to search for a new superintendent. The law firm will handle recruiting and checking candidates, which is more efficient than the board doing it alone. They considered posting the job locally but decided against it to avoid unqualified candidates. The firm will also handle background checks and … Read more

Sewer Line Improvements

El Campo is set to upgrade sewer lines on Flax, Corn, Cotton, and Rice streets, with a state grant covering most of the over $510 thousand dollar cost. The city council voted to accept the lowest bid for the job. The project will use a pipe bursting method to save time and reduce street disruption. … Read more

Civic Center Upgrade

The Wharton Civic Center is asking the city for $1.7 million to upgrade the facility over five years. Plans include fixing the parking lot and replacing a dated air conditioning unit. They’re also looking to make the bathrooms accessible for people with disabilities and address other needs like new chairs and an electric sign. A … Read more