From a planned presidential visit to Lubbock to leadership changes in Canyon and Amarillo, several developments are making headlines across the Texas Panhandle. Local officials are also keeping an eye on jail populations and ongoing water concerns as communities work through important decisions. Here's a look at five stories making news around the region.
Trump Expected in Lubbock for Ken Paxton Campaign Rally
President Donald Trump is expected to return to Texas next week, with a campaign rally planned in Lubbock on Tuesday, Oct. 27, as early voting continues across the state.
According to Republican National Convention officials, Trump is scheduled to speak at 2:30 p.m., with doors opening at 11 a.m. and the event beginning at 1 p.m. A location and additional event details have not yet been announced.
The visit is intended to boost support for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton, who faces Democratic state Sen. James Talarico in the race for the seat being vacated by Sen. John Cornyn.
Canyon Names James Stow New Parks Director
The City of Canyon has selected James Stow as its new Parks Director, replacing Brian Noel, who is retiring after 16 years of service.
Stow is expected to begin his new position in mid-November after serving as Amarillo's assistant director of Parks and Recreation since 2023. He also brings more than two decades of experience working at area golf courses, dating back to 2003.
Stow and his wife, Tessa, have two children.
Potter County Jail Population Continues to Decline
The number of inmates in Potter County custody continues to trend downward, according to the latest weekly population report from the Potter County Sheriff's Office.
As of 8 a.m. Oct. 19, the county had 617 inmates in custody, including 558 housed at the Potter County Detention Center and another 59 held at outside facilities.
County officials say monitoring inmate numbers helps determine staffing needs, available bed space, inmate classifications and the need for housing arrangements at other facilities.
The latest report reflects continued efforts to track detention center operations and manage available resources.
Childress City Council to Discuss Water Funding and Greenbelt Reservoir
Ongoing water concerns will be a major topic when the Childress City Council meets Monday at 5 p.m. in the banquet room of the Fair Park Auditorium.
Council members are expected to review funding options for capital improvements to the city's water system and consider a resolution authorizing applications for financial assistance through the Texas Water Development Board.
The meeting will also include an update on Greenbelt Reservoir from Greenbelt representative Harold Miller.
The discussions come as city leaders continue looking for ways to address water system challenges and secure funding for needed improvements.
Amarillo Names Ty Vernon Director of Animal Management & Welfare
The City of Amarillo has named Ty Vernon director of Animal Management & Welfare, promoting him after serving as assistant director and most recently as interim director.
Vernon succeeds Victoria Medley, who retired in March, and brings 10 years of city service to the position. His background includes animal welfare operations, animal cruelty investigations, public safety, administration and department leadership.
In his new role, Vernon will oversee daily operations, animal welfare services, enforcement and efforts to encourage responsible pet ownership.
