The Hill County Commissioners Court continued discussing the establishment of a county fire marshal’s office during a special meeting Tuesday, June 30. With Hill County facing increased interest from large-scale industrial developers planning data centers, battery energy storage systems and power generation facilities, the court has been discussing establishing the office to ensure that developers … Continue reading Commissioners continue fire marshal discussion
County settles lawsuit over moratorium
The Hill County Commissioners Court approved a settlement agreement with RCM Hill in a special meeting Tuesday, June 30, after the developer sued the county over its data center moratorium. After convening in executive session, the court unanimously approved settling the lawsuit by paying the plaintiff’s legal fees of up to $100,000. The court also … Continue reading County settles lawsuit over moratorium
DPS identifies victims of SH 171 crash
The Texas Department of Public Safety has released the identities of the adults killed in a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 171 Saturday, June 20, that claimed six lives. The crash occurred near Farm Road 3155 between Bynum and Malone when a northbound Nissan passenger vehicle attempted to pass another vehicle, crashing into an approaching … Continue reading DPS identifies victims of SH 171 crash
ESD 1 president explains resignation
The Hill County Commissioners Court observed and recorded the resignation of the president and treasurer of Hill County Emergency Services District (ESD) 1 during a meeting held Tuesday, June 23. Former ESD 1 President Greg Brown appeared in person to announce his resignation to the court, saying that increased public scrutiny and repeated complaints against … Continue reading ESD 1 president explains resignation
Smith Foundation announces opening of grant applications
The Board of Directors of the George G. and Alva Hudson Smith Foundation has announced the opening of the 2026 grant application process. Applications for grants to be awarded this year must be received on or before September 1. Grant awards will be announced in October. Applicants can access grant information and required supporting documents … Continue reading Smith Foundation announces opening of grant applications
Council reviews subdivision plans
The Whitney City Council reviewed agenda items related to subdivision development during a meeting held Thursday, June 18. The council approved an amended facilities agreement with Teamwork Town, Inc. for the Trinity Estates Subdivision on North Trinity Street. The council entered into a two-year agreement with the company in March 2024, during which time all … Continue reading Council reviews subdivision plans
Whitney Fire to host first Smash & Dash
Whitney Fire Rescue will host its first annual Smash and Dash event Saturday, June 27, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Whitney. The day will begin with a 5K run and continue with a variety of family-friendly activities, including a vendor fair and a hands-on vehicle smash experience. Visitors will also be able … Continue reading Whitney Fire to host first Smash & Dash
Cedar Creek VFD to formalize new name July 4
The 2604 Volunteer Fire Department is announcing a new chapter in its history with an official department name change to Cedar Creek Volunteer Fire Department that took effect in December 2025. Along with the new name, the department unveiled a new logo that reflects its continued commitment to serving the community with professionalism, dedication and … Continue reading Cedar Creek VFD to formalize new name July 4
Two-vehicle crash on SH 171 claims six lives
A two-vehicle crash on State Highway 171 between Bynum and Malone resulted in the deaths of six people Saturday, June 20. According to Department of Public Safety Sergeant Ryan Howard, a passenger car that was northbound on SH 171 attempted to pass another vehicle and crashed into an approaching van. Both vehicles became fully engulfed … Continue reading Two-vehicle crash on SH 171 claims six lives
ESD 1 board meeting ends after resignations
The Hill County Emergency Services District (ESD) 1 meeting ended abruptly Thursday, June 18, after the resignation of three board members. ESD 1 President Greg Brown and Treasurer Chad Wilson announced their resignation prior to the meeting and were not in attendance. Shortly after the meeting began, commissioner Jimmy Johnson spoke in open forum and … Continue reading ESD 1 board meeting ends after resignations
