Wildfire response efforts, election activity and holiday service schedules are all top of mind across the Panhandle. Here’s a quick look at several developments impacting residents in Randall County, Potter County and the City of Amarillo.
FEMA Approves Assistance for Hungate Fire
Governor Greg Abbott announced Saturday that FEMA approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant for the Hungate Fire in Randall County, helping support ongoing wildfire response efforts in the Texas Panhandle.
The Hungate Fire merged with the Chocolate Chip Fire Saturday morning and has burned more than 34,000 acres. Officials report the fire is now 95% contained. The wildfire damaged homes, threatened infrastructure and forced evacuations throughout the area. More than 350 homes were evacuated, while another 1,200 homes remained at risk during the height of the blaze.
State wildfire response resources continue operating under the governor’s direction to assist local crews and monitor conditions. The FEMA grant allows Texas to receive reimbursement for up to 75% of eligible firefighting costs. Residents seeking disaster assistance information can visit disaster.texas.gov.
Early Voting Continues Ahead of Primary Runoff
Early voting is currently underway for the May 26 primary runoff election across Randall and Potter counties.
In Randall County, voters may cast ballots through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Election Administration Office in Canyon, the Randall County Justice Center, the Randall County Annex in Amarillo, Southwest Branch Library and Comanche Trail Church of Christ.
In Potter County, early voting is available through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Santa Fe Building, Casey Carpet One, Cornerstone Outreach, Northwest Branch Library and the Tri-State Fairgrounds.
Amarillo Announces Memorial Day Schedule
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the City of Amarillo has announced adjustments to city operations and services.
With the exception of Comanche Trail and Ross Rogers golf courses, city offices and services will be closed Monday in observance of Memorial Day. Residential and commercial solid waste customers should note that Monday trash routes will shift to Tuesday, while Tuesday routes will move to Wednesday.
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