Local Government

Lubbock Republican State Senator Charles Perry says he’s planning to file a bill that could dedicate up to $5 billion in funding for water projects across the state. This month, Lubbock police expanded use of an e-citation app. Our reporter Olivia O’Rand has more on developing technology with the department. Enrollment is open for the City of Lubbock citizen education program. The application, syllabus, and more information can be found at mylubbock.us/Lubbock101, the deadline to apply is March 3.

Yesterday, Lubbock Public Health provided an update on a confirmed measles case. Our Bishop Van Buren reports that the City of Lubbock has been recognized at the state level for its growing role in the digital media industry. On Monday, the Buddy Holly Center will be honoring “The Day the Music Died,” with free admission, tours, and activities. Over at the City of Lubbock Cemetery, Buddy Holly’s grave will be decorated with yellow roses.

The City of Lubbock’s health department has been recognized for a second time by the National Association of County and City Health Officials for its emergency preparedness. Our reporter Samantha Larned has more. Yesterday, Lubbock City Council took steps toward a permanent facility for the Godeke Branch Library. The meeting also saw a second reading of two amendments requested by Lubbock Animal Services to tighten restrictions on pet ownership, while the ordinance change passed earlier this month, it failed upon second reading.

The South Plains Association of Governments is seeking public input from residents of fifteen counties surrounding Lubbock as part of its Safety Action Plan to improve road conditions and reduce traffic deaths and serious injuries across the region.

A bill has been filed in the Texas Senate that would set aside up to $10,000 in public funds for parents to send their kids to private school. The Texas Newsrooms Blaise Gainey says critics claim that amount isn’t enough to make the program successful. An Odessa economist says President Trump's policy shifts may not have a huge effect on crude oil production. Tomorrow morning at 7 A.M., Lubbock Mayor Mark McBrayer and District 4 councilman Brayden Rose are hosting Coffee with the Mayor at the Market Street at 4205 98th Street.

The City of Lubbock announced that residents have a new way to access their utilities account to pay bills. Residents can now visit the city’s website at mylubbock.us and click the tab that says “City of Lubbock Utilities Bill.” Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider has more on the state budget proposals from the Texas Senate and House. And according to the Community Foundation of West Texas, more than half a million dollars were raised to support Lubbock nonprofits this past Giving Tuesday.

From overpopulated shelters to an abundance of stray animals, Lubbock citizens are familiar with the city’s so-called ‘dog problem.’ This week, Lubbock City Council heard from residents, advocates, and city employees as it considers steps to assist Lubbock Animal Services.

Yesterday, Lubbock City Council approved two reports from Lubbock Public Health and two amendments to city codes regarding pet ownership. Texas House members voted Lubbock Republican Dustin Burrows into the Speaker position yesterday. Our reporter Brad Burt has more from West Texans on the decision.

The priorities identified by the Community Health Needs Assessment and the Community Health Improvement Plan are access to health care; mental health, substance use and homelessness; addressing chronic conditions; STIs and teen pregnancy; and improved coordination of information services and resources. Last month, Lubbock Public Health’s director presented the reports before city council, but after pushback from representatives, the vote to approve was rescheduled to Jan. 14.

Starting with the new year, some citizens of Lubbock will now be required to pay a deposit to obtain or continue their water services. Requirements can be found at mylubbock.us/waterdeposit. Texas Supreme Court justices reconvene in Austin this month for their first oral arguments of the year -- but without a key figure. KERA's Toluwani Osibamowo reports the court's longest-serving justice is retiring.