Wharton ISD is taking another step to fix its troubled finances by considering a new financial advisor. A representative from Live Oak Public Finance, a firm that works with districts across South Texas, outlined how the company could help manage debt and long-term planning. The board will vote later, but leaders signaled support. The district … Read more
An El Campo man will avoid prison time after admitting he deliberately hit a pedestrian nearly four years ago. Robert Abel Johnson, 23, pleaded guilty in Wharton County’s District Court and received eight years of deferred adjudication probation. Judge Randy Clapp also ordered community service, a $500 fine, drug and alcohol evaluation, and anger management. … Read more
The historic Louise rice mill is getting a major upgrade that will help bring year-round community events back to the site. Local leaders secured a nearly $16,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority, along with matching funds from the Louise-Hillje Chamber of Commerce, to install a new metal roof on the landmark building. The … Read more
Jury selection begins today in Wharton County as a local man faces charges for allegedly threatening a Wharton ISD police officer. Prosecutors say the incident happened on February 1st, of ’24, leading to a retaliation charge against 41-year-old Jealous Jones Mayberry of Correll Street. Judge John Maher will oversee the case in the 23rd District … Read more
El Campo police are investigating a late-night shooting that targeted a family’s vehicles on East Third Street a week ago Sunday. Officers say someone walked up a backyard driveway just before midnight and fired at least 10 shots into a pickup and two sedans. No homes were hit, and the shooter took off on foot. … Read more
A Fort Bend ISD bus driver is calling for full accountability after a violent attack that happened right in front of local students. Driver Denny John says two parents boarded his bus in the Caldwell Ranch area earlier this fall and beat him after he followed district policy during a route glitch. One suspect has … Read more
East Bernard heads into today’s regional semifinal with renewed confidence after reaching the third round for the first time since ’19. The Brahmas face a 10-1-1 Lexington team that shut out George West and leans heavily on a strong passing attack. East Bernard knows the challenge well, with Lexington leading the all-time series. Coach Jeremy … Read more
El Campo officials have signed off on a major boost to East Jackson Street, following earlier plans for a new convenience store. City leaders approved both a job-creation incentive and major infrastructure upgrades to support the $3 million project. Work is expected to begin before year’s end. The store is projected to add up to … Read more
Wharton County leaders say their coordinated approach to sexual-assault cases is paying off. In a new follow-up report to commissioners, the Crisis Center confirmed that every one of the 96 cases reported over the past two years in El Campo, Wharton, and across the county was fully investigated. Local police, the sheriff’s office, and the … Read more
El Campo is remembering longtime volunteer firefighter Jimmy George Sr., who spent more than six decades serving neighbors in their toughest moments. Residents say the 88-year-old, who passed away last week, was the heart of the El Campo Volunteer Fire Department, always showing up, training younger firefighters, and later offering steady support as the department’s … Read more