Public Works Department Reaccredited

The City of El Campo’s Public Works Department has been reaccredited by the American Public Works Association (APWA) for a second time. This honor recognizes excellence in management, efficiency, and service. El Campo is one of only 16 Texas cities to achieve this status and the smallest to do so. The community is invited to … Read more

Santa Fly-In

Santa Claus is flying into Matagorda County today for the seventh annual Santa Fly-In Storytime at Bay City Regional Airport. Starting at 9:30 a.m., families can enjoy festive readings, warm cookies, and holiday cheer as they await Santa’s 10 a.m. arrival. Local schools, first responders, and the Van Vleck High School Theatre Department are teaming … Read more

Louise Woman Autopsy

Shaylen McClain, a 28-year-old from Louise, was found dead on September 11th, weeks after going missing on August 16th. An autopsy confirmed her death resulted from multiple drug toxicity, with no signs of foul play. McClain’s body was discovered in tall grass near her father’s home, and toxicology reports revealed high levels of diphenhydramine, an … Read more

El Campo Christmas Parade

El Campo is gearing up for its 37th Annual Christmas Parade tonight at 7 p.m., featuring Santa Claus as the star. Themed “A Christmas Story,” the event will showcase 61 floats, led by the American Legion 251 and Grand Marshal retired Gunnery Sgt. Andrew Merta, a Marine veteran who once served in Ronald Reagan’s secret … Read more

Jugging Theft in Ganado

A brazen $30,000 theft in Ganado on November 25th is part of a rising trend called “jugging,” where criminals follow bank customers carrying large sums of money. Ganado Police Chief David Merritt reported that a local business owner was targeted after leaving a Sugarland bank. The suspects trailed him to his J&J store, where they … Read more

Crisis Center Shop Reopens

The Crisis Center resale shop reopened in El Campo, attracting dozens on Monday night’s grand opening. The Rethink Resale shop at 107 E. Monseratte showcased clothing and Christmas decor. Renovated by Castro Construction, the shop offers affordable items to those in need. More than 200 people attended the opening, enjoying a catered feast. Executive Director … Read more

Hardin will Retire

As the new year approaches, 23rd District Judge Ben Hardin will retire after nearly 30 years on the bench. Forced to step down due to age limits, Hardin reflects on his career, emphasizing justice and fairness. Appointed by then-Governor George W. Bush, Hardin handled notable cases, including the first Vioxx personal injury trial. He will … Read more

White Trash Services

Edna residents now have a weekly brush pick-up service by White Trash Services. To schedule a Wednesday pick-up, call City Hall by noon Monday. Tree limbs and brush must be 4 to 6 feet long and placed at the curb, away from obstructions. This service is included in the solid waste fee. Additionally, the city … Read more

Angel Tree Program

A holiday project in Bay City has blossomed into a lifeline for dozens of families across Matagorda County. The Bay City Junior Service League’s Angel Tree program, which started in ’21 helping 35 children, now supports 74 kids from Bay City, Van Vleck, and Tidehaven ISDs. The initiative works with school counselors to identify children … Read more

Romero Trial Delay

Attorneys for Rafael Govea Romero, accused of murdering 16-year-old Edna resident Lizbeth Medina last December, have requested a mental health evaluation and a trial delay. They argue Romero’s sanity must be assessed to determine his ability to stand trial and the reasons behind his actions. Originally scheduled for December 2nd, the trial is now set … Read more