Richard Himburg for Liberty County

06/01/2026

05/28/2026

How to sign up for TCEQ public notices by email

With growing concern surrounding the proposed plant project in Raywood and questions about how public notices were published in small-circulation newspapers in neighboring counties, many residents are asking how they can stay informed about projects that may impact their communities.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) offers a free service that allows Texans to receive permit notices directly by email for specific counties or ZIP codes.

https://bluebonnetnews.com/2026/05/28/how-to-sign-up-for-tceq-public-notices-by-email/

05/28/2026

The Trinity River Authority (TRA) is aware of a video circulating online regarding Lake Livingston Dam. TRA routinely monitors and evaluates the condition and performance of the dam in coordination with engineering professionals, regulatory agencies and technical experts.

There is no indication the structural integrity of Lake Livingston Dam has been compromised. Current inspection findings, monitoring information and engineering evaluations do not support claims of sudden or dangerous structural movement at the dam.

Following the historic flooding events of spring 2024 and the completion of emergency spillway stabilization work, additional monitoring and evaluation measures were implemented pursuant to regulatory requirements. These efforts build upon longstanding monitoring programs that include survey benchmarks and ongoing inspections designed to identify and track any meaningful changes in dam conditions over time. Information presented in the online video appears inconsistent with verified inspection records, established monitoring data and direct engineering observations collected during those efforts.

Construction activities associated with the emergency response and stabilization work were completed in January 2025. Following completion of those repairs, the Emergency Action Plan status was downgraded from “Potential Failure Watch” to “Watch Condition.” This status is not related to any observed structural failure or instability at the dam. Instead, it reflects the need for planned long-term spillway improvements based on updated studies of extreme flooding scenarios, including events larger than those experienced during Hurricane Harvey.

TRA continues to work closely with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the Texas Division of Emergency Management, the East Texas Electrical Cooperative, Inc., the City of Houston and expert engineering consultants on the evaluation, design and implementation of permanent spillway improvements.

During the 89th Legislative Session, the Texas Legislature appropriated funding to assist with those improvements as part of continued investment in critical Texas water infrastructure and long-term water security. Design of permanent improvements is currently underway, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027.

TRA remains committed to transparency and public safety and will continue providing updates as additional information becomes available. For more information, visit www.trinityra.org/LakeLivingstonUpdates

05/25/2026

Coming soon to liberty county

In Festus, a town of roughly 14,000 people, city leaders approved a proposed $6 billion Al data center project planned for 360 acres north of Highway 67. But many residents say the process lacked transparency.

Critics accused officials of holding key discussions behind closed doors and releasing documents too late for the public to properly review the project before the vote. Then came election week.

Voter turnout reportedly surged by 129%, and every city council member who voted in favor of the project lost reelection. In one race, a 70-year-old first-time candidate defeated an eight-year incumbent by nearly 40 points.

Now, residents are circulating a recall petition targeting the mayor, while a lawsuit against the city has already been filed.

Whether people support or oppose the Al project itself, the backlash appears to send a clear message about how strongly communities expect transparency and public input from local government.

Has your local government ever been held accountable like this?

05/25/2026

Our community's future rests on our ability to control our own destiny, from land use to infrastructure. This essential local sovereignty isn't a given; it's something we actively protect at the ballot box.

The current CD-9 runoff election is being heavily influenced by significant outside funding. This isn't just about campaign finances; it's about whether our local voices will be heard when powerful interests propose large-scale projects like AI data centers and energy facilities. These developments demand vast resources – electricity, water, land – and profoundly impact our roads, taxes, and emergency services. They challenge our community's right to decide its own path.

It's crucial for Republican voters in CD-9 to recognize the implications of this external influence. My sincere admiration for Mrs. Mealer's qualities and service is unwavering. Should she be chosen by the voters, she will have my full support. I extend my best wishes to her and her family.

With early voting concluded, the outcome of this race now depends on the votes cast on Election Day, Tuesday, May 26 7Am-7Pm. Your decision will determine whether local control remains paramount.

05/25/2026

Today we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their courage, dedication, and selfless service will never be forgotten.

Join us as we pause to reflect, remember, and appreciate the heroes who protect the values we hold dear.

05/24/2026

Proposed developments concerning data centers in Liberty County have brought to light significant issues requiring comprehensive evaluation. Two distinct projects have been identified for consideration, one located within Liberty and another near Dayton.

Regarding the Liberty site, serious procedural concerns have emerged. Construction activities have reportedly commenced and continued without obtaining the necessary initial permits, a fact confirmed by County Attorney Matthew Poston. This alleged violation of county regulations raises questions about compliance and due process, potentially setting a concerning precedent for future developments within the county.

Conversely, the proposed data center near Dayton has received a letter of support from the County Commissioners and County Judge. While acknowledging the potential for increased tax revenue, it is imperative to balance these prospective fiscal benefits against the broader, long-term implications for the community and environment.

The resource demands of such facilities are substantial. Data centers are known for their exceptionally high power consumption, placing considerable strain on existing electrical grids and potentially impacting local utility services and costs. Furthermore, their operational requirements often include the use of millions of gallons of water, which could significantly deplete local water resources and affect residential access and pricing, particularly in areas already facing water security challenges.

While proponents highlight the job creation aspect, it is crucial to differentiate between temporary construction employment and long-term operational staffing. Data centers, once built, typically operate with a relatively small workforce, often ranging from 20 to 150 employees depending on their scale. This limited permanent job growth contrasts sharply with the extensive environmental and infrastructural demands these facilities impose.

Given these considerations, including the documented regulatory non-compliance at one site and the profound environmental and community impacts of both projects, there is a strong basis for concern. A thoroughI re-evaluation of these proposals is warranted to ensure that any development aligns with the long-term well-being and sustainability of Liberty County and its residents.

04/08/2026

This Saturday April 11 is our annual BBQ, starts at 11am to 2pm
Plates are $15.00
We have numerous items to raffle
Come out and enjoy

03/04/2026

Well, it looks like this chapter didn't quite end the way we had all hoped, but that certainly doesn't diminish the incredible journey we've been on together!

First and foremost, I just wanted to send out a massive, heartfelt thank you to every single one of you. Your votes, your time, your kind words, and all your help throughout this process truly meant the world to me. It's been an absolutely fantastic experience, a real adventure filled with so much learning and so many wonderful connections. I honestly wouldn't trade it for anything!

For those who know me, you'll know I'm not one to give up easily. I'm a firm believer in the old adage that when you get knocked down, you just get back up, brush yourself off, and try again with renewed spirit. So, consider this a temporary detour, not the final destination!

I'm already looking forward to the next steps and can't wait to cross paths with all of you again very soon. Let's keep that momentum going and those conversations flowing!