0Seek Accurate Info on Charter Amendments

Bay City’s Mayor Robert K. Nelson addressed community concerns on social media about the upcoming election and proposed Charter Amendments. He emphasized that while opinions may differ, some information circulating is incomplete or inaccurate. Nelson explained that the amendments were thoroughly discussed and approved by City Council for voter consideration, believing them to benefit the … Read more

Wharton Levee Nears Phase 1 Finish

In Wharton, Phase 1 of the Colorado River levee is set to finish by late September, despite 84 days lost to bad weather. City officials and Army engineers updated westside residents recently at Just Do It Now. The levee runs from behind Buc-ee’s on U.S. 59 to Dinosaur Park. Two retention ponds will help hold … Read more

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

This week, Bay City is honoring its unsung heroes—911 dispatchers and call takers—as part of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, through this Saturday. These behind-the-scenes professionals work around the clock, guiding residents through emergencies and keeping local police, fire, and EMS teams informed and safe. They handle stressful situations with calm and care, even on … Read more

Teen Arrested After Party Shooting

Early Sunday morning in Bay City, around 12:30 AM, police responded to gunfire on the 2700 block of Cottonwood. Witnesses said 18-year-old Zeferino Vargas was kicked out of a party and then opened fire outside. Officers found 11 shell casings, two vehicles hit, and bullets inside a nearby home. Vargas resisted arrest, tried grabbing a … Read more

Fire Gutted Vacant Home

An early morning fire gutted a vacant home and garage on East Watt Street in northeast El Campo last week. Firefighters arrived to find the 1948-built structure in flames. With no power or water service, officials say no one should’ve been inside. The fire spread quickly due to heavy clutter and old wood. No injuries … Read more

Golfers Punch Tickets to Regionals

El Campo dominated district play to win the title and earned a spot at this week’s regional golf tournament in Victoria. The Ricebirds shot a two-day 643, beating Needville by 33 strokes. Boling also advanced after placing second in District 24-3A with a team score of 402. East Bernard’s Camden Fucik and two Brahmarettes—Gabby Boehnemann … Read more

Gulf Coast CASA

Gulf Coast CASA recently held its annual Pinwheel event in Wharton County to raise awareness for local victims of child sexual abuse. The event honored 65 confirmed abuse cases in ’24 and stressed the urgent need for community action. Attendance doubled from past years. CASA’s mission includes both supporting victims and preventing future abuse. Volunteers … Read more

Light Up the Square

Bay City lit up with support Thursday night as locals gathered at the Matagorda Courthouse for the 5th Annual Light Up the Square, hosted by the Crisis Center. As paper lanterns were placed for each anonymous victim, law enforcement and community leaders read their stories aloud. The event blended music, prayer, and raw testimony, giving … Read more

New Auto Shop Clears Council

El Campo will soon see a new auto shop open on Jackson Street. The city council approved a Special Use Permit for Jackson Street Tire and Mechanic at 1102 W. Jackson, the former home of Midnight Tinterz. The permit enforces strict rules: work must happen inside, no junk visible from the street, and limited outside … Read more

County Commissioners Court

Wharton County Commissioners Court will meet this morning for a special session tied to County Government Day. About 350 students from all county high schools will rotate through government departments, ending with lunch at Wharton KC Hall. Key agenda items include support for a long-delayed airport overpass project, now fully funded. Commissioners will also consider … Read more