The Legislature begins its work creating a state budget for the next two years with slightly less revenue available than it had during the previous biennium. Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar projects lawmakers will have $194.6 billion available during the 2026-27 budget cycle, down 1.1%.

A few weeks ago, I wrote a column titled, “Excessive Tolerance.” The Editor informed me that he received positive feedback from the community, and I was personally thanked by a few folks for bringing the problem to light. I am grateful for the accolades mind you, but I am disappointed that once the excitement subsided any previously created fervor simply died on the vine.

A severe winter storm warning prompted widespread closures across Madison County Monday, as forecasters predicted up to 4 inches of snow and ice accumulation through Tuesday evening. Madison County Judge Clark Osborne announced most county offices will close on Tuesday, January 21, citing safety concerns for employees and their families.

After increasing code violations across the city, Madisonville’s Building and Code Enforcement Department will host two workshops next month. The department scheduled both weekday and weekend sessions at the Truman Kimbro Center.

President Donald Trump began his first day back in office Monday, Jan. 20, signing executive orders that could affect Texas healthcare recipients and other Americans, according to the Associated Press.

.

.

1944-2025 Morris Wayne “Butch” Eubanks, 80 years, 3 months, and 11 days, of North Zulch, TX passed away Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at his home. Funeral services are scheduled for 1 p.m.

The Madisonville Consolidated Independent School District board of trustees celebrated School Board Appreciation Month during their regular January meeting while also addressing key financial and facilities updates for the district.