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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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
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
In a recent school board meeting, Wharton School District leaders discussed the retirement of Superintendent Dr. Michael O’Guin. After a private meeting, they decided to put him on leave and named Olatunji Oduwole as the temporary superintendent. This follows Dr. O’Guin’s announcement to retire after his contract ends in 2025. Dr. O’Guin chose not to … Read more
The Wharton Lions Club held a festive dinner at Mayor Tim Barker’s place to welcome their new leaders. Dick Wosniak is the new president, with Letha Barker, Ken Dimmick, and Ross Mudumiri as vice presidents. Joyce Ferrell will keep the records as secretary, and Susan Welch will manage the finances as treasurer. They also praised … Read more