Potter County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Potter County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
County Equipment and Vehicle Fleet Upgrades
The court approved a batch of big-ticket purchases: a Tahoe for Constable #4, a wheel loader and UTV for Road and Bridge, a replacement F-250 for facilities, and new fire reporting software. Commissioners questioned why vehicle quotes came in over budget and discussed adding a buffer to future budget requests.
Law Library LexisNexis Subscription Renewal
The court debated renewing a pricey LexisNexis subscription for library computers that are rarely used, ultimately tabling the decision for more research.
City Manager Appointment
Amarillo is hunting for yet another city manager after the latest one resigned, marking the fourth time in just 11 years they've had to fill this critical top spot. The City Council is now gearing up to start the hiring process all over again, looking back at past turnover for clues on how to get it right this time.
East Gateway TIRZ #2 Boundary Expansion
City officials presented plans to potentially expand the East Gateway Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ #2) to spur development along I-40.
Downtown County Parking Lot Regulation
The county discussed managing after-hours parking and heavy vehicle traffic on its newly constructed parking lot, ultimately deciding to seek towing service proposals to protect the pavement and reserve spaces for employees and jurors.
Homelessness Services
Transformation Park is actually moving the needle on homelessness in Amarillo by helping people land jobs and permanent housing. It’s a rare success story that proves local support programs can turn things around for our unhoused neighbors.
Water Conservation
Potter County is asking locals to play detective by reporting water-wasting businesses and public buildings this summer. If you see a massive leak or broken sprinklers, snap a photo and send it in to help keep our local water supply in check.
Court Internet Speed and Technology Upgrades
The county approved server replacements, high-speed internet upgrades, and a legal research platform upgrade to improve operational efficiency.
Animal Control Services
Potter County is now offering free spay and neuter surgeries for local pets. It’s a win-win that keeps more money in your pocket while helping get the stray animal population under control.
Public Safety and Waste Management
A fire at the Amarillo landfill has sparked concerns about local air quality and potential trash pickup delays. If you live in the area or have a dump run planned, keep an eye on city updates to see how it affects your week.
Potter County Courthouse Construction Update
Facilities updates show downtown parking lot flatwork is 90% complete, stair tower brickwork is finishing up, and utility easements have been cleared. Work remains on track for a potential mid-summer completion.
City-County Sales Tax Revenue Sharing Agreement
The court reviewed a preliminary draft agreement with the City of Amarillo regarding sales tax revenue splitting in newly annexed areas within the County Assistance District.
Jail Booking Room Remodel Change Order
The county approved a change order for the ongoing booking room remodel project at the detention center.
ARPA Fund Closeout and St. Anthony's Project Extension
The county is wrapping up its federal ARPA funds, extending the deadline for the St. Anthony's low-income housing project to April 1 and adding remaining funds to ensure every dollar is spent before the federal deadline.
Community Concerns Over Sex Offender Probation and School Closures
Residents addressed the commissioners during public comment regarding systemic failures in sex offender probation tracking and the closure of Pleasant Valley Elementary School, urging county leaders to intervene and advocate for community protection and neighborhood empowerment.
Data Center Development
Potter County is deciding whether to welcome new data centers that could bring in tax cash but might also drain our local water and power supplies. It’s a major tug-of-war between economic growth and keeping our essential utilities reliable for everyone.
Social Services Funding
A local addiction recovery center is in a financial hole after losing state funding and is now asking Potter County for an emergency bailout. If the county steps in, it could force officials to shuffle money away from other public health and safety programs to cover the gap.
Voter Participation
Even with major issues on the ballot, most people in Potter and Randall counties stayed home this election. It means a tiny group of voters is calling the shots for everyone else in the community.
Emergency Services and Closures
A major winter storm is shutting down city offices and government services in Amarillo today. Make sure to check online before you head out, as most public buildings are closed until the weather clears.
Public Infrastructure
The new Potter County courts building is finally open, which means you'll need to update your mental map for where to go if you have jury duty or legal business. Expect some shifts in how local court operations are handled as the city transitions to this new facility.
Election Endorsements
Want to know who the local power players are backing in the upcoming primary? We’ve rounded up the latest endorsements so you can see exactly who is lining up behind which candidates before you cast your vote.
Public Safety Incident
A city employee was tragically killed in a shooting in Midland this week. It’s a heartbreaking loss for the local government team and the community at large.