Economy

Local leaders see data centers, which help power the world’s shift to artificial intelligence, as a way to keep their towns open. Residents worry their way of life — and water — is at stake.

October is Texas Wine Month. Our reporter Mia Shephard attended Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association's "Grape Camp" last week, and has more about current issues facing the industry. It is also Free College Application Week, a statewide initiative to help Texans apply to public colleges and universities. Those seeking undergraduate admissions can apply through the ApplyTexas portal.

The American Heartland has experienced a boom in wineries over the last three decades. But with U.S. wine sales trending down since 2019, some producers are feeling the effects more than others.

Dr. Malcolm Tanner may have been drawn to Loving County by big oil revenue and small voter rolls.

Other smaller oil and gas producing regions in the state are better poised to help power the growing data center market, a new report found.

This week, Lubbock County commissioners approved a budget plan, including $1.4 million cut for the Sheriff’s Department and $250,000 cut for volunteer firefighters. New World Screwworm was detected in a city in Mexico less than 70 miles from the border with Texas. Marian Navarro with Texas Public Radio reports the case was detected in the early larval stage.

Economic uncertainty, inflation, strict state limits on property tax collections and uncertainty around future federal funds have crimped local budgets.

Beef prices have hit record highs, yet American consumers haven't stopped buying it. A look at what's behind the steep price increase and when they might come down.

September is National Literacy Month and today is International Literacy Day. Our Sean Ryan reports on the nationwide and local push and to strengthen community learning. You can sign up for a card at any of the Lubbock Public Library locations or by visiting the website lubbocklibrary.com. Last week's budget discussion from Lubbock's city council ended with a 2.2% increase to the tax rate for homeowners. The council is expected to hold a final vote on the budget and tax rate in its meeting tomorrow.

Following the approval of new funds from the state, Lubbock ISD’s Board of Trustees approved new items in its budget for this school year. Our Brad Burt reports that this includes an average 13% pay increase for certified teachers and 14% for paraprofessionals. Lubbock’s city council will be holding public hearings today regarding its tax rate and the city’s 2025-26 budget. Citizens can sign up to speak outside the council chambers before the meeting begins at 2 P.M.