Last week’s Creature Teacher program (above) was so fun! If you got to come, what was your favorite animal? It seems the Wallaby was a favorite of some.

Story Time for ages 1 - 5 years old This year’s programming includes Story Times each Tuesday during the month of June beginning at 10:30 a.m.

LEGO Group The LEGO group is meeting each Tuesday in June from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm. You must register your child to attend. Click on this link. Scroll to the 1st LEGO day you want to sign up for, scroll to the registration area and sign up. centennialmemorialt x.localhub.com/ calendar/full Below is a list of the upcoming children’s programs.

Thursday, June 11 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm The Chemistry Roadshow - A Texas A&M professor will share the magic and fun of chemistry. (I am hoping to see “Elephant’s Tooth Paste!”) For more information visit this site: https://artsci.tamu. edu/chemistry/outreach/ roadshow/index.html This event will be held at the Lumber Yard Event Center 313 W Main St, Eastland.

Thursday, June 18 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Dinosaur Valley - Park Rangers will share information about dinosaurs. There will be a dinosaur dig. Lumber

To be eligible for the ASU Dean’s List, fulltime undergraduate students must maintain a 3.25 or better grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

See the complete spring 2026 Dean’s List at angelo. edu/commencement. Dean’s List honorees 33

from your area, with their academic majors, include: Brooke Ainsworth of Ranger - Animal Science Maria Alaniz Alegria of Eastland - Accounting Nathan Anderson of Comanche - Computer Science Janna Arnold of Cisco - Agribusiness Kasey Arnold of Cisco - Ag Science and Ldrshp Sec Cert Londyn Carroll of Carbon - Animal Science Ivory Flores of Cisco 22

- English Bailey Hernandez of Cisco - Ag Science and Ldrshp Sec Cert Jolie Hutton of Cisco Psychology Jj Jones of Rising Star - Communication Avery Mcinvale of Desdemona - Natural Resource Management Isabell Montez of Cisco - Criminal Justice Rechinda Perry of Ranger - Social Work-Axel Aaron West of Eastland - Music Haylee Wilke of Cisco - Education Keegan Williamson of Eastland - Kinesiology For more information, log on to angelo.edu.

Formerly Security Title, the company expands its presence across multiple Texas locations, including Abilene, Eastland, and Breckenridge under one name.

ABILENE, Texas — May 22, 2026 — Texan Title today announced operations under a single statewide brand, bringing together a network of locations across Texas, including the long-established Secuin Abilene, Eastland, and Breckenridge. The than a decade of growth since the acquisition of Security Title in 2014 and reinforces the company’s commitment to delivering consistent, relationship-driven service across the communities it serves.

Built on strong local teams and deep-rooted community relationships, Texan Title has expanded steadily over the past 30 years while maintaining the trust and reliability that clients expect at every closing table. The move signed to create clarity and alignment across all markets while preserving the local expertise and personalized ser- to a unified brand is de vice that have defined each office.

“As we’ve grown across Texas, that growth has been driven by the strength of our local teams, the relationships they’ve built, and the legacy of the communities they serve,” said Patrick F. Doyle, CEO of Texan Title. “Unifying under the Texan Title name allows us to bring that strength together in a way that creates consistency statewide, while continuing to support and invest in each individual community.” The Abilene, Eastland, and cornerstones of the company’s presence across the communities operating with the same trusted teams, leadership, and commitment to them for more than four decades. The rebrand does not change dayto- day operations but enhances the company’s ability to deliver a more seamless and recognizable experience across all locations.

“At Security Title, everything we’ve built over the years comes our partners, our clients, and the communities we’re proud to serve. We don’t just close transactions, we build lasting connections. Our commitment has always been to show up, stay involved, and support the growth and success of the people and communities around us. We’re excited to continue that same commitment under our new brand, Texan Title,” said West Region President, Kristyn Jones.

To celebrate the transition, Texan Title will host formal rebrand events in late May and early June at respective locations, bringing together real estate professionals, lenders, builders, and community partners from across the region. The event will feature a brand reveal and recognition of outstanding partners who have played a key role in the company’s success.

As Texan Title continues to grow, the company remains focused on what has always mattered most: strong relationships, local expertise, and a commitment to serving the people and communities that have been at the foundation of its success.

To learn about Texan Title visit our website at www.texantitle.com and follow our Facebook page.

By Linda Spetter The Eastland County Commissioners at their regular meeting Monday, June 8, accepted a petition with more than 250 signatures from county residents opposed to solar farms. Although solar farms were the main item on the agenda, the issue data centers and transmission towers in comwho spoke in front of the commissioners’ court.

The commissioners listened to the speakers and sympathized but said in reality, little can be done on the county level to stop solar farms or any high-tech establishments due to lack of jurisdiction, eminent domain, state law, and the threat of lawsuits.

However, the commissioners agreed to write a resolution which they will present at the next commissioners meeting to show their support for the petitioners who plan to take the resolution and their petition to Texas State Representative David Spiller.

Ron Lasater of Carspeak. “These data centers, from what I’ve read and heard, use 3 to 5 million gallons of water a day. . . and property values are also a big concern.”

County Judge David Hullum responded that “data centers were not on the agenda, so we can’t really address that, but your point is well made. Thank you.”

Pam Griggs of Carbon expressed her concerns to the court about a proposal by Oncor to run transmission towers through the Carbon area.

“Again, transmission lines were not on the agenda,” Judge Hullum said, “so I have to be restrictive on what I say. The county has no land use authority. Period.” He gave the example of Hill County, which was forced to retract a moratorium on data centers after the county was sued for $500 million in damages by developers. By law, Hill County did not have legal authority to declare a moratorium.

“I applaud you guys for doing what you’re doing,” Judge Hullum said. “But you need to start at the federal level.”

Later in the meeting, it was explained that cities have zoning authority, but counties do not have the legal power to stop development.

Nancy Wilson of Eastland and Carbon was the third speaker, who criticized the damage that solar farms can do to ground water. She suggested the county should make stipulations “hard enough” that solar developers would leave Eastland County and go elsewhere. She also recommended that the county do some research on geothermal energy, which she believes is “way more effective” than solar farms.

Judge Hullum responded that he would what those stipulations are, “but they have to have a legal mechanism for us to do anything. We’re not a municipality, we’re a county, so we have very limited ordinance-making authority.”

He added that it is easy to make stipulations, “but what’s your authority for enforcing it? Because at the end of the day, again, the Hill County moratorium. There was no mechanism for them to enforce it. They passed it, but there was no mechanism to enforce it, and that’s what got them jammed up. And incidentally, the county judge and three of the commissioners were sued individually on top of that. I don’t feel like doing that.”

The fourth speaker was Stephanie Alexan- der of Eastland. Among other comments, she asked what will happen to small businesses in Eastland, when their workers will opt for jobs for $30 to $35 per hour to run a water truck to spray the ground at the solar farms. “What will our small businesses do?” She also mentioned that all the construction workers coming in are pushing rents and property taxes up.

Commissioners Sympathize

“I worry about where we’re headed as a county as this stuff comes in, and I understand your power is limited,” Alexander said. “You’re telling me I need to go to the federal level to ask for stuff like that. And I agree with you. And the state, right. I agree with you, but I also think you have to have y’all’s faces as our representatives in our county to come with us. I don’t think that we can get it in front of those people without y’all’s support.”

Judge Hullum said he had emailed senators, congressmen, everyone on the Public Utilities Commission, the governor, telling them “how much we opposed the transmission lines. I don’t disagree with what you were saying, moving forward. But again, nobody got too concerned that the commissioners of Eastland passed a resolution opposing Oncor transmission.”

Commissioner Robert Rains of Precinct 4 said, “You need to go back and look who voted for that transmission line because that was done in Austin. That was not done here locally. That wasn’t even done with Oncor. That was done in Austin to put in transmission lines. And all 31 senators voted for it.”

The final speaker was got notification from one Melissa Bilby, whose family has a farm on County Road 154. She lives in Wyoming. “We just invested to come back here to retire, and once we completed our project, we of our neighbors that this was happening around our farm.”

“Obviously things were happening before we started construction and put our retirement money into a home return because I was raised here. And so now we were also bringing a reclamation company with us because we wanted to actually retire here and be part of the quiet farm life in the small town. And what I’ve done since then and found this out was pretty devastating for us.”

She thanked Commissioner Rains for helping to answer questions. “I’ve been told we can’t stop it. Okay, well, that’s not a good answer for me. . . I agree, we do have to take this higher, and I’m willing to do that. David Spiller (Texas State Representative for the 68th District) is probably my next contact.”

Bilby continued, “Who is taking care of the neighboring farms and the people that actually, that’s their way of life. That’s their income. You know, that’s what I know that’s not being considered in any of this.”

“We would like to see your support with our community to say, this is not okay, because obviously people are saying, it’s not okay. And I’m not saying I’m against solar. There’s ways to do it, but just don’t tear up our farmland and our way of life.” She then presented her petition with hundreds of signatures to the commissioners. She said if she had known about the solar farms, “we wouldn’t have invested my retirement in building a home out there.”

Judge Hullum responded, “Thank you, guys. I appreciate you being here and I hope one thing that you that you leave here with is that we are as frustrated as you are. And we’re doing everything we can. And we will continue to do everything we can. It’s just, we just don’t have that many options available . . . We’ll do the resolution of support because we do support you guys.”

This collector’s edition will highlight the history, people, businesses, organizations, and communities that have helped shape Eastland County and our nation.

Eastland County Today Eastland Telegram•Cisco Press•Ranger Times•Rising Star•Gorman Progress Honoring Our Past •Celebrating Our Present•Inspiring Our Future “Be Part of History --Advertise in Our AMERICA 250 COLLECTOR’S EDITION” Reserve your space today to showcase your business, organization, church, civic group, or family message in this historic publication.

For advertising information, call 254-629-1707 or email ecnads@yahoo. com A once in a generation Collector’s Edition preserving local history for future generations.

THORNTON FEED MILL 200 Conrad Hilton

Cisco 254-442-1122

However, mark your calendars for our exciting DAC Spring Garage Sale! This year, we’re extending the fun over two weekends: June 4-6 and June 11-13, from 8 AM to 5 PM daily.

Thanks to your generous donations! tage finds, books, cloth Household items, vining, holiday decor, and much more, all at incredible prices. It’s the perfect chance to refresh your home, uncover unique bargains, and enjoy community spirit.

We can’t wait to see you at the Desdemona Activity Center and shop with us!

This special evening celebrates the businesses, organizations, and individuals who continue to make Eastland a wonderful place to live, work, and enjoy life.

Guests will enjoy a cocktail hour with cash bar beginning at 6 PM, followed by dinner at 7 PM, along with live entertainment, awards presentations, and a silent auction. Proceeds from the silent auction help fund scholarships for the Chamber’s Junior Ambassador Program.

Attire for the evening is Business, Cocktail, or Formal Attire.

Individual tickets are $50 per person or reserve a table of eight for $375.

We would love for you to join us as we celebrate our community and recognize those who continue to make a positive impact in Eastland.

Additional event details and registration information are available on our website.

Or call 254-629-2332

During a recent episode of Rip’s Report, host Levi Freeman spoke with Bilby and Alexander about the proposed projects, the concerns that prompted how they first learned of them to organize a petition effort, and their plans to continue raising public awareness throughout the county.

The discussion focused on concerns about the potential impact of largescale solar developments on agricultural land, rural communities, and private property rights. The pair also expressed concerns about what they describe as a lack of transparency surrounding the proposed projects and emphasized the importance of ensuring residents have access to information before major decisions are made.

Bilby and Alexander are currently seeking volunteers to help distribute information and encourage additional residents to sign the petition.

They said their goal is to ensure Eastland County citizens have an opportunity to learn about the proposed developments and make their voices heard during the decision-making process.

Residents interested in learning more may contact Melissa Bilby and Stephanie Alexander through Facebook.

An online petition is available at Change.org by searching: “Oppose Samsung’s Foreign Solar Farm in Eastland, Texas.”

Key Takeaway Whether residents support or oppose solar development, the interview highlights the importance of civic engagement. Staying informed, asking questions, attending public meetings, and participating in local govern- ment discussions are important ways citizens can help shape the future of Eastland County.

Watch the Full Rip’s Report Interview:https:// www.youtube.com/watch 7v=cv4k6T-nSpM View More Rip’s Reports:https://www.youtube. com/live/5Dfh-K4C 1 He 7si=oxfLsGZnXJn8DaI8 Subscribe to Eastland County Today for Local News and Community Coverage:https://publisher. etype.services/Eastland-County-Today

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on Rip’s Report are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Eastland County Today, its sponsors, or host Levi Freeman.

18th. City officers

were up for election, elected by the current City Commissioners,

a board of five sitting

Commissioners, for the positions of Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and Treasurer. As we proceeded, the Mayor, Larry Vernon, interrupted the process by making slanderous comments about me, stating that I was the White Knight parading around the city being all that! I’m here to tell you now, I do not have a white horse or cape in my wardrobe. I’m not sure what that statement means, but his next comment, calling me a “Drug Mule” for the sitting Texas AG Commissioner, was completely out of hand and classless.

Larry Vernon has gone to all ends to try to discredit me as the Mayor and/or City Commissioner. Larry has actually called the himself as Mayor of Eastland, and asked if he could get information nothing. I never worked for them. He also asked for Sid Miller’s phone number to talk to him as TDA in Austin, identified on me, only to find out well.

To clear the air, I was interviewed along with three other people who worked for Sid at the TDA and was asked questions about our knowledge of a plethora of items linking Sid to one of his employees, Todd Smith. Todd was eventually convicted of a felony selling hemp licenses out the back door of the TDA in Austin.

In this process, I was called into a meeting with the Texas Rangers to answer questions. Just prior to being called in, Sid arrived at my door one night asking me to dispose of three bags of marijuana of his because he suspected the DEA was going to show up and inspect his hemp crop and personal residence. I did what he requested and disposed of all three. End of story.

Letters to the Editor are welcomed and reflect the opinions of the individual writers, not those of the newspaper, its staff, or affiliates. All submissions must be signed . Include Name, city & phone number. Anonymous letters or those submitted under false names will not be considered. By submitting a letter, the writer grants the newspaper the right to publish and distribute the content in print and online.

Books connect us. People complete us.

It is time for summer fun at the library. This year’s theme is Unearth a Story.

We are excited about the programs that we have planned for this year.

These programs will be held this summer.

Thursday, June 11 Thursday, June 11th 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm T h e Chemistry Roadshow A Texas A&M professor will share the magic and fun of chemistry. (I am hoping to see “Elephant’s Tooth Paste!”) For more information visit this site: https://artsci.tamu. edu/chemistry/outreach/ roadshow/index.html This event will be held at the Lumber Yard Event Center 313 W Main St, Eastland.

Thursday, June 18 Thursday, June 18th 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Dinosaur Valley - Park Rangers will share information about dinosaurs. There will be a dinosaur dig. This event will be held at the Lumber Yard Event Center 313 W Main St, Eastland. The event will start inside the building and then move outside for the dig.

Thursday, June 25 Thursday, June 25th 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm STEAM Day - we will have various activities including snap circuits, robotic play, dinosaur eggs, Keva planks and various art activities.

Thursday, July 15 Wednesday June 15th 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Mini Golf in the Library - a mini golf course will be set up in the library.

Prizes

Prizes will be given for the number of days you read and for attending events. Everyone will get brag tags and ice cream (thank you Dairy Queen or hamburger coupons (thank you Whataburger and McDonalds) for each 7 days read. You can take as long as needed to meet your 7 days. Your name will also be added to prize drawings. You will keep track of days read on the back of a bookmark we will give you.

Prize drawings: Prizes will be drawn on Thursday, July 16th at 11:00 a.m. You do not have to be present to win. Your name can be entered for each event you attend and for each time you complete 7 days of reading.

We plan to add a LEGO group and a Robotics group when the supplies arrive at the library. These 2 events will require signing up to attend. Check the calendar at this address. We will post the information on the calendar as soon as we know the dates, centennialmemorial-tx. localhub .com/calendar/ full

We are beyond thankful for a partnership that serves up support as hot as the pizza and as strong as Granny defense! We also want to sincerely thank everyone who made generous cash donations during the fundraiser. Your support and kindness are greatly appreciated and will help our team represent our community at Nationals.

Thank you to everyone who came out, donated, and cheered us on. This community continues to show what small towns and big hearts can accomplish together!

For more information about Eastland Old Rips Granny Basketball, please contact Roma Holley at 254-631-8990 or visit grannybasketball. com.

LET’ER RIP

I think that before you sign up for any of these, maybe you should ask people that were sucked into what they thought was going to be a good deal, but maybe, it is too good to be true. Do you continue to receive money or will the companies suddenly stop paying, then you are stuck with the nonsense of it all? Find other families that have fallen for all of this before you sign. Pray.

Another problem I would like to discuss, is the way some of our local elected Officials are conducting business. Are you kidding us? I have been here for over 60 years and the childishness I have seen going on is outrageous!!!!!!!

I trust Shirley Stuart, Joe Williamson III and YES I know Michael J. Hackney. These three will represent Eastland for the best of the town. Yes I listened to the tape that has been said makes Michael look bad. My Goodness. Sounds to me like he is standing up against corruption. He was not the only one questioned and the investigation is ongoing.

Please, when you call someone a liar, you better have proof. Slander is never good. hi times like this be a Joe, Shirley, Michael or even a Loretta Key. Stop believing gossip, it does not become you. God Bless Eastland and Eastland County.

Beth King Olden, Texas

uled for Saturday, June

4th, has been canceled. However, mark your calendars for our excit - ing DAC Spring Ga - rage Sale! This year, we’re extending the fun over two weekends: June 4-6 and June 11-13, from 8 AM to 5 PM daily.

Thanks to your gener ous donations!

Household items,

vintage finds, books, clothing, holiday de

cor, and much more, all at incredible prices. It's the perfect chance to refresh your home, uncover unique bar

- gains, and enjoy com -

munity spirit.

We can't wait to see you at the Desdemona Activity Center a nd shop with us!

change Feeder Cattle: BEEN A LITTLE PRES

SURE ON BOARD

$2-$5 LOWER Slaughter Bulls &

Cows STEADY TO $4

HIGHER

Bred Cows & Pairs: STEADY

Feeder Steers:

Med. & Large #1

300-400 lb $5.45$6.35 400 lb - 500 lb NT 500 lb - 600 lb $3.90 -$4.75 600 lb - 700 lb $3.10 -$4.00

Feeder Heifers:

Med. & Large #1 300 lb - 400 lb $4.85 - $6.00 400 lb - 500 lb $3.85 - $4.75 500 lb - 600 lb $3.65 - $4.55 600 lb - 700 lb $2.95 - $3.75

Longhorn/Dairy NT Fresh Ropers NT Slaughter Cows:

High Dressing $1.75-

$1.99

Low Dressing $1.40-

$1.70 Slaughter Bulls:

High Dressing $2.00-

$2.50

Low Dressing $1.65-

$1.99

Bred Stock Cows: Choice $3200-$3750

Medium $2400 $3000 Aged NT

Cows w/calves: Choice $4000-$4500

Medium: $3000--

$3900 Aged NT

Buyers 46

Sellers 95 Head 526

SALE DATE 5-26-

2026

Livestock Sale Every Tuesday!

Goats & Sheep Start at 10:00

Cattle to Follow I-H 20 and FM 3363

Olden Exit

P.O. Box 70

Eastland, TX 76448 Telephone: (254) 629-2288

Fax: (254) 629-2484 texascattleexchange. com

12

It is Reunion Time Again! The descen dants of the late T.J. and Addie Adams and the late T.W. and Mary Ann Hatton will meet at the Bullock school house for their annual reunion on Sunday, June 7th. All friends,

relatives, community and neighbors are cor - dially invited to attend.

Good food and good memories are a guar- antee. Hope to see you there!

The city council considered the ordinance following a successful citizen initiative petition. The first reading vote on Tuesday, May 26th, was a unanimous 4-0, with Commissioner Katie Billings making the motion to adopt the measure, Commissioner Jim McCullough seconding, and Mayor Robert Butler and Commissioner Jared Calvert joining the commissioners in supporting its passage.

The second and final

reading vote took place tonight, on Thursday, May 28th. The vote was a unanimous 3-0, with Commissioner Katie Billings making the motion to adopt the measure, Commissioner Jim McCullough seconding, and Mayor Robert Butler joining the commissioners in supporting its passage. The passage made the City of Ranger, Texas, the NINETY-EIGHTH CITY in the nation, and the EIGHTY-FIRST CITY in Texas, to pass an ordinance outlawing abortion.

The Ranger SCFTU Ordinance prohibits: (1) performing an elective abortion and aiding or abetting elective abortions within the city limits of Ranger, (2) elective abortions on residents of Ranger – regardless of where the abortion takes place, (3) abortion trafficking through the City of Ranger, (4) the mailing of abortion-inducing drugs into Ranger, (5) criminal organizations from doing business inside the city limits of Ranger, and (6) the transportation or disposal of the remains of unborn children who have been killed by an elective abortion across state lines and carried by waste management companies into Texas in and through the City of Ranger.

A letter of support from Senators and Representatives across the State of Texas was given to Mayor Butler and the City Commissioners, explaining the purpose and intent of the local measure. The letter read, “While it is true that abortion is outlawed in the entire State of Texas, from the point of conception, our work is far from over. Right now, throughout the State of Texas, women are being trafficked across our borders by abortion traffickers funded by abortion trafficking organizations still operating in our state. As a result, these women are being abused and traumatized by abortion across our Texas–New Mexico border and sent back to Texas for our cities and counties to deal with the aftermath taking place in our homes, our schools, our churches, and our hospitals. The Sanctuary for the Unborn ordinances seek to protect these institutions by putting safeguards in place to protect men, women, and their children for years to come. These ordinances, which seek to close as many loopholes as possible, do not penalize women who seek or undergo abortions, but place the penalty on the party who most deserves it – the abortionist and the industry profiting from the unjust procedure, including abortion traffickers .’’The ordinance is not enforced by the City of Ranger, its elected officials, or any of its employees. Instead of being enforced criminally, the law is enforced civilly by private citizens.

This is the same way the Texas Heartbeat Act is enforced: through a private enforcement mechanism that allows private citizens to file a lawsuit against anyone in violation of the law. Special thanks go out to all of the Ranger residents who signed the Ranger SCFTU Citizen Initiative Petition.

This vote, as part of the citizen initiative process, would not have been possible without all of them.Since August 2023, 49 political subdivisions have passed ordinances identical in substance to the Ranger SCFTU Ordinance. The Ranger SCFTU Ordinance is the FOURTEENTH ordinance to pass in 2026.

It is anticipated the project will be completed by the end of August. TxDOT encourages drivers to plan ahead, follow posted detour signs, and allow extra travel time during this construction. Please watch for crews and equipment entering and exiting the work zone.

City Park’s 100th Anniversary Celebrated

Above Eastland Lions Club members are shown at their booth at the Eastland City Park’s 100th Anniversary celebration this weekend. The Centennial Fair was hosted by Eastland Lions Club and offered food and activities for everyone. Thanks goes to all those who attended and provided their time and donations. Photo below: Reep Family members enjoy the many fun things to do at the Centennial Fair.

My name is Stephanie Alexander and I am a 2007 Eastland High School graduate. I attended the University of Texas at Tyler where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting and later completed my masters degree in business administration.

My husband and I both come from families that have called this community home. In 2021 we decided to return to Eastland to raise our children here. We wanted to give them the same small town culture that we had the opportunity to enjoy as we grew up.

We have enjoyed the beauty that this countryside has to offer and looked forward to owning a small piece of it ourselves. However, after learning about the large-scale infrastructure projects that are threatening to change the future of our small community, I feel I have no other choice but to try to intervene. I bought land here to pass down to my children, and that dream feels threatened.

I would love the opportunity to speak with the community and spread awareness of what our community faces as these multimillion or multibillion dollar industries work their way through our county.

Thank you, Stephanie Alexander (817)235-8759

“You called me a drug mule,” Hackney protested.

“You moved drugs for somebody,” Vernon said.

“That’s a drug mule.

Let me help you with WKH GHQLWLRQ RI D GUJ mule. Did you move drugs for Sid Miller? I suggest you answer yes to that because that is what you told a Texas Ranger you did. I can play the recording.”

In a July 2024 interview with a Texas Ranger, Hackney said he disposed of several bags of “product” for Miller.

“I don’t have to answer to you …,” Hackney said.

“You don’t,” Vernon agreed. “But don’t call me a liar.”

Hackney, who will be up for election next year, said Vernon was responsible for the council’s current status because of his tendency to gossip, citing the resignation of Joe Williamson as the (DVWODQG RQW UH chief.

“You are the kingpin of gossip,” Hackney said. “And that gossip got Joe (Williamson) UHG LG -RH JHW UHG Vernon asked.

“You tried to get him UHG DQG KH UHVLJQHG Hackey said, noting Vernon, Stewart and other council members had previously had a behind-the-door meeting about Williamson prior to his resignation.

AccordingtoHackney, Vernon and Stewart became embroiled in a disagreement when the mayor said her relationship with Donna Williamson might affect her judgment.

“You called me a liar,” Stewart said, slapping the table. “That is what you did,” Vernon admitted he did.

“I did. And I would do it again if you told me that again,” he said. “You said your relationship with Donna Williamson would not have an effect.”

Vernon praised Stewart for her service, and said he mentioned Stewart’s name only as a way to alert of the situation that was growing between Hackney and Williamson, and the possibility of an illegal walking quorum between members. Shirley Stewart said that she had mentored and spoken with Hackney but never about city business.

Retired District Attorney Russ Thomason said the appearance of a walking quorum was there, as Stewart admitted she had spoken to Hackney outside of the council chambers (but not about council business).

Vernon, who was later appointed treasurer, said his desire for speaking at the council meeting was to shed a light on the council’s current status.

ECT Note: Former Eastland County District Attorney Brad Stephenson spoke to the council after public comment in the meeting, prior to the vote for mayor. Stephenson attacked newly elected council member Joe Williamson, implying he had no support from local HOHFWHG FRQW RIFLDOV including the County -GJHV RIFH RQW Fire Departments, and WKH6KHULIIVRIFH Joe Williamson only defended himself to response to former DA Russ Thomason’s concerns, saying “I was elected by the people to serve and they don’t care about these false rumors and appearances that have been created.”

After the election, discussions ended and the council moved IRUZDUGZLWKRIFLDOFLW business effectively.

- Compiled from reliable sources by Tommy Wells and ECT Staff ****

Construction crews are going to extend the concrete drainage on Lago Vista to help prevent possible future issues. The construction crew has started working on the punch list to complete the construction portion of this project. In that punch list, it will address the asphalt streets that meet the concrete. Engineering estimates a few more weeks until completion of the roads.

Buy-Out Program 

The required paperwork has been submitted to GLO and there are six properties that will be removed through the Buy-Out Program. We are currently waiting for GLO to approve eligibility to move forward.

TWDB Flood infrastructure Fund Grant 

Construction on the pump line is progressing. The line has been laid on Valley and Daugherty. The next phase will include asphalting the road, installing the vault for the valve on Daugherty and Plummer and completing the tie ins. Contractors are currently boring under East Main near Dairy Queen; this area is full of rock and taking longer than expected. We are reaching out to two property owners near this area to realign the pump line in a straighter manner than what was originally drawn up. This will require two easements to be adjusted. Once the bore is complete, the next step will be to tie in the line with the existing main. This work will have to be scheduled as water service will be temporarily interrupted while the contractors complete the work. We will notify residents and business owners once the time and date have been determined.

Downtown Sidewalk Repairs

TxDOT will be repairing specific sections of the sidewalks around downtown in the upcoming months. TxDOT has informed us that additional time will be required before starting in Eastland. The improvements have been delayed outside of TxDOT’s control. These are prioritized by TxDOT funding. Fire Department The Lower Colorado River Authority awarded the Fire Department with a grant of $11,174 to replace the existing backup generator. Additionally, we received a reimbursement check of $300,000 from Texas A&M Forest Service as part of the grant for the purchase of the 2023 pumper.

Additional Information

• The pool opens on May 30th from 12-5p following the 5K race.

• The Centennial Park Fair will be held on May 30th from 10a- 1p.

• We are actively hiring for temporary summer help; applications can be picked up at City Hall or online at eastlandtexas.gov.

• Two employees are studying to test for their political non-commercial applicator license. 

This will allow the city to mitigate growth of grass and weeds in the streets and sidewalks.

• Staff have begun internal budget meetings and are working on budget requests for 26-27 sent out with meeting dates for the upcoming

fiscal year. There will be a calendar prepared and fiscal year budget cycle.

- Savannah Fortenberry, City Manager

Week of May 25-29, 2026 State’s wind projects at a standstill 

Dozens of Texas wind projects have been halted because the Department of Defense has not approved the federal permits required for them to move forward, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

Data from the American Clean Power Association indicate that the state has 54 wind projects stalled as part of a nationwide delay affecting 165 onshore wind projects. President Donald Trump has long opposed wind power. Energy experts such as Environment Texas Executive Director Luke Metzger say the administration is using the regulations, such as ensuring a wind project would not affect military airspace, as an attack on renewable power. “It’s hard to see this as anything other than an effort to slow or stop wind power regardless of the consequences for consumers, the environment and grid reliability,” Metzger said.

In a statement, a defense department official said DOD is still evaluating the projects. The department’s evaluation of wind turbines “is inherently complex and time-consuming because it involves balancing two critical, and sometimes competing, interests: developing energy sources while ensuring military operations and readiness are not degraded or impaired to the extent an unacceptable risk to national security is created,” the official said.

R&D plays vital role in state’s economy 

Texas is one of the top five states contributing to research and development, according to a recent report from the state comptroller’s office.

The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates R&D’s contribution to gross domestic product, “after accounting for the resources used to produce goods and services, employment and compensation from 2012 to 2023.”

The R&D value added by Texas businesses reached $29.2 billion in 2023, a 131% increase from 2012. Further, R&D in the state supplied nearly 195,000 jobs and $30.1 billion in wages, salaries and benefits in 2023.

Texas has 15 Tier 1 colleges and universities, the most in any state. In 2024, more than 11,800 patents were issued in Texas, the second highest in the country, after California.

“When investments are made in research, the returns multiply — strengthening our competitiveness, securing our future and improving the lives of all Texans,” said Fernanda Leite, interim vice president for research at UT-Austin.

First case in 2026 of West Nile virus reported

The year’s first case of West Nile virus has been reported in a Harris County resident, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported. The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, though 80% of people infected with West Nile never experience symptoms.

“West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses are a fact of life in Texas in the warmer months, and all Texans should take precautions against mosquito bites to stay safe and healthy,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer A. Shuford. She advised removing standing water from homes and yards, such as in buckets, old tires and other items.

The symptoms experienced by the unlucky 20% include fever, headache, nausea, muscle and joint aches, and fatigue. Though rare, West Nile virus can be fatal. In the past five years, there have been 976 cases of West Nile in Texas, according to DSHS, with 106 deaths during that period.

Franklin Mountains State Park grows by 1,000 acres Franklin Mountains State Park, 15 minutes from El Paso, is now 1,054 acres larger to the east as the result of a new land acquisition, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reported.

“I am excited about this acquisition,” said Superintendent Cesar Mendez, “which extends the buffer zone all the way to Martin Luther King Boulevard, adding some lower elevation and flatter land to Franklin Mountains State Park and securing access points (trailheads).”

With 28,000 acres — or 43 square miles — the park is one of the largest urban wilderness parks in the world. It has more than 120 miles of trail and is a popular site with birders. The acquisition helps safeguard the main mountain area of desert bighorn sheep habitat.

Federal aid for Panhandle wildfire victims

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a request for grant funds to assist victims of the Hunggate Fire in Randall County, which has merged with the Chocolate Chip Fire, burning an estimated 14,000 acres and threatening more than 1,245 homes. Aid has also been granted for the Sinky Fire in Potter County, which has burned more than 2,500 acres and prompted evacuation of more than 500 acres.

“Texas has secured federal resources to further guard against wildfire threats in the Panhandle,” said Gov. Greg Abbott. “With this grant approval, Texas has additional tools to help Texans remain safe from wildfire danger.”

The approval of a Fire Management Assistance Grant makes the state eligible for 75% reimbursement from the federal government for eligible costs associated with wildfire suppression. These grants are available to states, counties and cities to support the mitigation, management, and control of fires that threaten to become major disasters.

Broker imposter scams being reported

Several attempted broker-imposter scams over the past few months have prompted the Texas Department of Banking to warn that such ruses could pose a significant threat to financial institutions and consumers.

According to a TDB news release, “consumers are targeted after conducting searches for high-rate investment opportunities. Individuals contacted by the fraudsters are often not existing bank customers and are located across the United States.”

Some red flags to look for are cold calls, an incorrect or bogus email address, low-risk/ high-reward offers, and unusual funding procedures.

Anyone who is targeted by a broker imposter is encouraged to contact the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority at finra. org.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.com.

April 2026 Open Cases Beginning of Period - 43; YTD 316 New Cases Opened - 15; YTD 99 Cases Closed 27; YTD 146 End of Month Total - 31 *Total Violations Opened - 35 * Total Violations Closed - 48 Junk Vehicles - 3 Dangerous Buildings 17 Citations Issued - 0; YTD 13 Warnings Issued - 3 Cases Reported for Back Taxes - 0 Annual Notices - 13 Fines Assessed $0; YTD $6,830 Fines Paid - $0 Served Jail Time - 0 Fines Dismissed $0; YTD $2,616 Total Fines Paid/SVD/ DSMSD - $0 Cases Abated by City - 0 Costs of Cases Abated- 0 Abatements Paid - 1 Abatements Paid Amount - $0 Liens Filed - 0 Lien Amount - $582.75 Lines Paid - Amount $582.75 - YTD 1,112.75 * Citations Issued: Non reported 

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Eastland Police Department Report April 2026 Total Calls for Service: 305; YTD 1984 Arrests: 14; YTD 119 Offense/Incident Reports: 46; YTD 341 Agency Assist: 41: YTD 299 Business Checks: 589; YTD 7726 7UDIF UDVKHV 7 82 Domestic Disturbances 11; YTD 67 Cases Filed with DA: 10; YTD 106 Cases Filed Juvenile: 5; YTD 8 Open Records: 20; YTD 118 7UDIF LWDWLRQV YTD 813 Warnings Issued: 268; YTD 2679 Total Contacts: 361; YTD 3492 Animal Control Issues Total Calls for Service: 231; YTD1539 Citations Issued: 2; YTD 44 Warnings: 11; YTD 126 Impounded 7; YTD 120 Adopted 5; YTD 38 Quarantined 0; YTD 5 Notes: 8- Felony Warrant Arrests; 2- Narcotics Arrests; 4- Other Arrests.

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Eastland Fire Department April 2026 Total Calls for Service 67; YTD 552 Building Fire - 2; YTD 16 7UDVKRUUEELVKUH YTD - 12 Brush or Grass Fire - 0; YTD - 18 Medical Assist - 26; YTD - 268 EMS Calls - 11; YTD 43 Motor Vehicle Accident with Injuries - 1; YTD - 23 Motor Vehicle Accident with No Injuries - 1; YTD - 42 Hazardous Condition 9: YTD - 34 Lock-out - 4; YTD 15 Public Service - 3; YTD 20 Dispatched and Cancelled in Route - 2; YTD 27 False Alarm or False Call - 6; YTD 20 Smoke Detector Activation due to malfunction - 0; YTD 3 Smoke detector DFWLYDWLR R UH unintentional - 0; YTD 3 Notes: Participated in State wide testing of warning systems. All sirens operated as designed. Received grant reimbursement from TFS for tanker purchase. Received grant from LCRA for generator replacement.

Updated all First Responder medical protocols and signed off by medical director.

Completed renovations to add an additional 93 URRP LUHWHU Hayden Dyke completed EMT-B school.

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City of Eastland Municipal Court April 2026 Report Criminal Cases - 93; YTD - 821 City Ordinances - 5: YTD - 80 New Cases Filed - 98: YTD - 901 Disposed Cases - 105; YTD - 769 Warrants - 28; YTD 178 Active Cases - 4,748; YTD - 4,748 Inactive Cases - 333; YTD - 333 Cases Pending - 5,081; YTD - 5,081 *** City Revenue - $15,252; YTD - $117,714 State Revenue - $9,240; YTD - $66,443 Fines, Crt Cost, E - $24,492; YTD $184,157 End of Month - $24,492; YTD - $73,972 *** APRIL 24-25: City Revenue - $146,999 State Revenue - $95,552 Total: $242,551 APRIL 25-26

City Revenue - $117,714 Over/Under ($29,285) State Revenue - $66,443 Over/Under ($29,109) Total $184,157 Over/ Under ($58,394) 

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Report ran by: Dena Withers - Deputy Court Clerk - Eastland Municipal Court

The Bankhead Players are part of the Bankhead Community Theatre — Lyric Art Center in Eastland.

(Photo by Anna Ford)