Local Government

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.

Texas lawmakers are again attempting to get death row inmate Robert Roberson to testify about his conviction. KERA's Toluwani Osibamowo reports Roberson was blocked from testifying in person the first time he was called. The City of Lubbock is accepting applications for several boards and committees through December 31. The term for the positions will begin June 1, 2025. Applications can be submitted at www.mylubbock.us/cityboards.

In yesterday’s meeting, Lubbock’s city council approved its priorities for the upcoming state legislative session. This week, Mayor Mark McBrayer also gave his support for Lubbock’s legislator for District 83 Dustin Burrows in his race for Texas' Speaker of the House, a role which he says would move the interests of West Texas forward.

Lubbock’s public transportation provider, Citibus gave a route study presentation at Tuesday’s city council meeting about adjustments, improvements, and expansions to its services. Our reporter Samantha Larned has more on the council’s response to the proposed next steps.

Record-breaking turnout for voters in and around Lubbock was still not able to meet expectations by the Elections Office, with a total percentage just over 62% of registered voters in Lubbock County; while close approval of local propositions opens the question of how long older Lubbockites will financially support Lubbock's massive growth.

Tuesday was election day in Lubbock and across the country, our news team has the results and data that matter for the city and the county.

Our reporter Olivia O'Rand has more on recommendations from a local health expert on using Breast Cancer Awareness month to encourage people to take control of their health. Tomorrow morning, Lubbock Mayor Mark McBrayer is hosting Coffee with the Mayor alongside District 2 Councilman Gordon Harris at 7 a.m. at the Mae Simmons Community Center.