News

In preparation for a potential bond election to be presented to the voters as early as May 2025 to construct a new Van Zandt County Jail and/or renovate the VZC Courthouse, the VZC Commissioners Court unanimously approved a resolution during a special called meeting Jan. 2.

While new Van Zandt County Fire Marshal Kevin Palmer will not officially begin his duties until Jan. 22, he is already on the job.

russell@thmonitor.net Residents of Van Zandt County have filed a lawsuit in the 294th Judicial District in Canton seeking damages, temporary and permanent injunctions and demanding a jury in reference to the Amador Energy Storage Project, a 100-megawatt lithium battery energy storage facility under construction near Farm to Market Roads 47 and 1651, which is near the Whitton community north of Mabank.

davidb@vanzandtnews.com Most cities and school districts in Van Zandt County are busily preparing for the start of the candidate sign-up period for numerous city and school elections this spring. Election Day for the 2025 school and city elections in VZC is Saturday, May 3.

With sub-freezing temperatures predicted for North Texas in the next few days, the SPCA of Texas advises the following protect pets from harsh outdoor conditions. — Freezing temperatures can be dangerous and even deadly for companion ani-mals, so it is best to keep your pet indoors as much as possible.

Following his swearing-in ceremony Jan. 1 in the Van Zandt County District Courtroom, new VZC Sheriff Kevin Bridger released the following statement: “I am proud to represent the law enforcement professionals of VZC and to be your sheriff,” said Bridger. “I know this is where our citizens raise their families, educate their children, worship, and need to feel safe in all they do. VZC is my home, and I pledge to protect that which we all hold dearest, our homes, businesses, and families. I am here to make VZC a safer place to call home. I will earn your trust and look forward to working with all citizens, county commissioners, other law enforcement agencies, and our district attorney’s office in making VZC the greatest place to call home.”

By the time you are reading this, you won’t need me to remind you of the blast of Arctic air that pushed through the state this week. Just step outside, but you better put your long johns on before you do! It’s early Sunday morning and I’m comfy and warm at my computer.

Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of severe winter weather expected to impact the state this week.

Fitness is an important component of overall wellness. Indeed, staying active has been linked to a number of noteworthy benefits, including decreased disease risk and improved mental health.