Bay City Police Message

The Bay City Police Chief Christella Rodriguez assured the community, in a social media post, of its ongoing dedication to safety and justice. While immigration enforcement is a federal matter, their main focus remains local law enforcement and crime prevention. They encourage residents to report criminal activities and assure that every community member is valued … Read more

100 Club Benefits Increase

Law enforcement officers in Wharton County will receive increased benefits thanks to the 100 Club, which raised death benefits from $100,000 to $300,000. The group honored top officers and support staff at its annual gathering in El Campo, where outgoing president Billy Freeman expressed gratitude for their service. New District Attorney Mark Racer highlighted local … Read more

Honored for Dedication and Achievements

At the 100 Club of Wharton County’s annual banquet, Sheriff Shannon Srubar praised the dedication of the Wharton County Sheriff’s Department. Srubar highlighted their achievements in ’24, including becoming a certified training provider and promoting the department’s first female captain. He praised officers, jailers, and support staff for their commitment, citing nearly 27,000 service calls … Read more

Bay City Charter Changes

Bay City voters will address five propositions in the May election to update the city’s charter. Changes include staggering council terms, adjusting meeting rules, and revising residency requirements for the city manager. These updates aim to improve efficiency and reflect the city’s government structure. While some residents raised concerns online about the residency rule, officials … Read more

Callaghan’s Contract Extended

The El Campo ISD school board has extended Superintendent Bob Callaghan’s contract through June 2028 after a unanimous 6-0 vote on Jan. 22nd, with one member absent. Callaghan, who has led the district since July of ’20, guided schools through the pandemic and key administrative changes. He may also oversee a possible historic bond election. … Read more

Chad Morris Joins ANSRS

Texas coaching legend Chad Morris has joined ANSRS as a senior advisor to the CEO, bringing decades of experience to help coaches streamline game planning with advanced data and video tools. Morris, who led Bay City to state titles and revived SMU’s program, will focus on expanding ANSRS’ reach and developing training programs for young … Read more

Second Time Around Resale Robbed

A thief hit the Second Time Around Resale Shop in El Campo, stealing electronics, clothes, and a household dryer from the nonprofit store that supports people with disabilities. Assistant Manager Crystal Muñoz worries the theft might discourage donations, as people often drop off items after hours. El Campo police are reviewing security footage and believe … Read more

Upgrading Traffic Signals

Bay City is upgrading traffic signals at key intersections to improve safety and efficiency, but the project has caused temporary delays, lane closures, and signal issues. City Manager Scotty Jones acknowledges frustrations but says the TxDOT-led project will ultimately benefit drivers and pedestrians. Work on SH60/Ave. F and SH35/7th St. is ongoing. Completion is expected … Read more

Appeal Denied for Lights

A Texas court has refused to hear an appeal from Raymond Charles Lights, a Simonton man convicted of causing a deadly crash in Wharton County. In ’21, Lights, who was on parole from a 95-year prison sentence, led police on a high-speed chase from Fulshear to East Bernard before crashing, killing his passenger, Julia Moreno. … Read more

Palacios Kidnapping Arrest

A Palacios man was arrested Tuesday night after allegedly breaking into a woman’s home, attacking her with a knife, and kidnapping her. Police say 50-year-old Huy Dinh forced the victim into her car and drove toward Houston. The victim’s daughter called 911 after finding the home in disarray and her mother missing. Palacios police, with … Read more