Cloud to Represent Matagorda County in Congress

Matagorda County now falls under Congressman Michael Cloud’s district after recent changes to Texas boundaries. Cloud, a Victoria resident, has served since ’18 and is known for his conservative stance on small government and fiscal responsibility. He currently sits on the House Appropriations Committee, helping secure millions for Gulf Coast infrastructure, including airport upgrades and … Read more

Help Shape Regional Clean Air Plan

Matagorda and Wharton County residents are invited to weigh in on a regional plan to improve air quality. The Houston-Galveston Area Council will host a public meeting on Tuesday, September 9th, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Wharton County Library on North Fulton Street. The plan aims to cut greenhouse gases and boost community … Read more

Road Repairs Cause Closures

Bay City drivers are facing several road closures as the Street and Bridge Department works on key repairs to improve local roads. Heatherglen Drive near 4105 Heatherglen is closed through September 5 for restoration after a water line fix. Drivers should use Lanarkshire or Glen Meadows as detours. A separate concrete repair on 16th Street … Read more

Schools Earn Top Marks

El Campo schools have reason to cheer as the Texas Education Agency released new accountability ratings. El Campo High earned an “A” with a score of 90, joining only a third of Texas high schools at that level, while Northside Elementary earned a “B” with multiple top distinctions. Overall, El Campo ISD scored a “B.” … Read more

County Lands Two Data Centers

Barrio Energy, a Houston company, will build two new 10-megawatt data centers in Matagorda County, bringing the coastal community into the fast-growing digital economy. The first site is expected to open by late this year, with the second in early ’26. These centers will support advanced computing and cryptocurrency mining while boosting the county’s tax … Read more

Harvest Sees Strong Yields

Wharton County farmers are wrapping up a strong harvest despite a summer of extreme heat and heavy rains. AgriLife Agent Corrie Bowen said grain crops have produced solid yields thanks to well-timed rainfall. Cotton remains a challenge with low prices, but growers are waiting on USDA quality tests that could boost profits. Corn has become … Read more

Wharton Sees Big Sales Tax Gain

Wharton’s push to shop local is paying off as the city saw a major boost in August sales tax rebates. Wharton collected over $289,000, up 27% from last year, helping balance next year’s budget after months of flat returns. El Campo and East Bernard weren’t as lucky. El Campo’s rebate dropped 1.5%, and East Bernard … Read more

Officials Refute Online Misinformation

Bay City officials are pushing back against false claims circulating online, saying misinformation is damaging the city’s reputation. The city released a detailed statement addressing concerns about finances and projects. Officials clarified that the $975,000 in Hotel Occupancy Tax funds was projected revenue, not spending, and none will go toward an event center. They also … Read more

Miller Highlights Palacios Seafood Industry

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller visited Palacios last week to spotlight the city’s seafood industry and its impact on the state economy. Known as the “Seafood Capital of Texas,” Palacios is home to a thriving shrimping community. Miller toured a shrimp boat operated by GO TEXAN partner Philly Seafood and an aquaculture facility run by … Read more

Council to Hear Utility Rate Hike

El Campo residents can speak out on a proposed utility rate hike tonight at City Hall. The increase would add $1.50 to base rates, helping fund emergency line repairs and road work through the Transportation User Fee. The council will also consider letting the City Development Corporation give $100,000 to the Northside Education Center for … Read more