Local Government

Lubbock's city council gave final approval on a zoning change in the Tech Terrace neighborhood, permitting the construction of a student housing project where the Godbold building once stood. Our reporter Samantha Larned has an update on the measles outbreak in Texas in New Mexico region, plus two new cases reported in Oklahoma. Texas Tech University is hosting a free car clinic today for students, students, faculty, and staff from 10:30 A.M. to 1:30 P.M. at the northwest portion of the Commuter Satellite parking lot, on the corner of 10th Street and Texas Tech Parkway.

The vote center program was introduced in Lubbock almost 20 years ago, allowing voters to cast a ballot from any vote center location in the county, regardless of their address. Our Brad Burt reports on the unanimous vote from Lubbock County Commissioners to oppose legislation to eliminate these centers. In the wake of this weekend's time change, The Texas Newsroom’s Lucio Vasquez has more on the potential end of daylight saving in Texas.

Yesterday, Lubbock’s Mayor Mark McBrayer held the city’s 43rd State of the City Address, the first during his time as mayor. He spoke with various department leaders about topics like economic development, water, recreation, road construction, and public safety.

Lubbock’s mayor Mark McBrayer held the city’s 43rd State of the City Address on Wednesday, the first during his time as mayor. He described the event as an opportunity to explain how the local government is planning for the future.

Our Bishop Van Buren reports on Lubbock City Council's approval to purchase a device that detects forever chemicals in drinking water. This week, Lubbock congressman Jodey Arrington, Chairman of the House Budget Committee, celebrated the passage of the House Budget Resolution. Tomorrow, Lubbock Animal Services is offering free vaccinations and microchipping for dogs and cats. The clinic starts Saturday at 8 A.M. at the LAS building at 3323 SE Loop 289.

Lubbock’s city council approved a zoning change yesterday that would allow for the construction of a high-rise student housing facility in the Tech Terrace neighborhood. Our reporter Samantha Larned gives the latest on the measles outbreak in West Texas and a free vaccine clinic hosted by Lubbock Public Health for unvaccinated individuals. The clinics run through Thursday, 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. and this Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 P.M. at the public health building at 2015 50th Street.

National park advocates say parks and historic sites in West Texas could be harmed by recent federal layoffs and an ongoing federal hiring freeze. The Texas Newsroom’s Lucio Vasquez reports on a bill that would make it illegal to perform medical research on a corpse without explicit consent from family members. The public is invited to attend Coffee with the Mayor tomorrow. The event will be hosted by Lubbock Mayor Mark McBrayer and District 6 Councilman Tim Collins at 7 A.M. at the Market Street located at 6313 4th Street.

Many of Lubbock's city leaders traveled to the Texas Capitol for "Lubbock Day," to meet with members of the legislature and discuss West Texas issues that they feel should be addressed in Austin. The Texas Newsroom's Nina Banks reports the Texas Senate also passed three bills yesterday aimed at tightening the bail system in Texas.

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.