News

Many property owners around Van Zandt County have been treated to an unwelcome dose of sticker shock in recent weeks, receiving letters from the appraisal district outlining sizeable increases in both residential and commercial property values.

The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) will conduct its 31st annual national food drive on Saturday, May 13. Letter Carriers will join forces with community leaders and others to help fight hunger in Dallas and throughout the country.

A special called election for Van Zandt County Emergency Services District #3 is scheduled for Saturday, May 6. The proposition on the ballot reads, “the adoption of a local sales and use tax in VZC ESD #3 at the rate of two percent.” The only voting location, Early Voting or Election Day, for the election is at the Holly Springs United Methodist Church in Martins Mill.

More than 300 people made their way to the Van Zandt County Appraisal District Office this week, bringing their concerns about recently released 2023 tax appraisals before the board April 25. With the primary meeting room well at capacity, an overflow crowd gathered in adjoining offices and hallways.

DAVID BARBER davidb@vanzandtnews.com Early voting continues through Tuesday, May 2, in several city and school elections throughout Van Zandt County with Election Day scheduled for Saturday, May 6. Edgewood ISD School board positions in Edgewood currently held by Jody McPherson (Place 6) and Judy Steadham (Place 7) are up for election in 2023.

DAVID BARBER davidb@vanzandtnews.com An update on drainage issues at the Van Zandt County East Annex property on State Highway 64, east of the VZC Courthouse in Canton, was presented by VZC Pct. 3 Commissioner Keith Pearson April 26 during the regular meeting of the VZC Commissioners Court.

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A number of education-related topics under consideration by the Texas Legislature were outlined during the regular monthly meeting of the Van School Board April 17. Through a power-point presentation, Van ISD Superintendent Don Dunn gave the trustees a breakdown of some legislation that is under consideration by the Texas House and the Texas Senate regarding education.

The Fruitvale FFA will be hosting their annual FFA Banquet and Fundraiser Auction beginning at 6 p.m. May 5 at the Fruitvale cafeteria located at 244 VZC 1910.

The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Offi ce released the following arrest report from Apr. 4-Apr.