The state’s technical college system’s endowment could generate $40 million per year for its 11 campuses, including its Waco flagship.
Sam Shaw
Sam Shaw covers government and growth for the Bridge. Previously, he spend the past two years at the Longview News-Journal, where he covered county government, school board and environmental justice issues. His work on the emerging lithium extraction industry in Northeast Texas has won statewide attention. Before Longview, he wrote for several publications in his native Colorado and reported news features for the High Country News. Sam earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California at Santa Cruz and a master’s in journalism from Goldsmiths University in London.
Democrats’ chances to retake McLennan County commissioners seat dim with redrawn map
McLennan County commissioners say the snap redistricting helps spread the burden of road work among precincts. But data suggests the new map could add thousands of Republicans to a commissioner precinct known for minority representation.
It’s game over for eight-liners in Waco. Owners and players say a new ban goes too far
A recent court case paved the way for the city of Waco to ban electronic slot machines. But owners and players say eight-liners aren’t hurting anyone. The Waco City Council approved the ban Tuesday, and it goes into effect Jan. 1.
Waco is about to spend $167M to reshape downtown. Here’s what to know, and how to weigh in
The city is set to make an unprecedented investment in downtown, starting with the Barron’s Branch phase next year. It is poised to reshape a large vacant tract with a new stream and walkways through a mixed-use development.
A malfunction has shuttered Riesel’s coal plant for two years. A rural ISD could pay the price
Once McLennan County’s largest taxpayer, the Sandy Creek coal-fired power plant is likely to see its taxable value plummet further after a major mechanical failure
Neighbors applaud mixed-income homeownership vision at old Sanger school
Grassroots Waco plans to start building homes at the old Sanger school next year. It’s been a 17-year journey, but neighbors like what they see.
Ready for a fall getaway? Here are six state parks close to Waco that fill the bill
You could make a day trip or a weekend jaunt out of visiting these parks, which offer diverse landscapes and different levels of challenge.
‘Why Sergio?’ Deportation ends 36-year dream for celebrated Waco chef and family
Sergio Garcia built a wide following for his regional Mexican cuisine over the decades, becoming favorite of the White House press corps visiting Waco during the Bush presidency. Then in March, ICE came looking for him.
State ballot measures could mean big breaks for Waco taxpayers
The Nov. 4 ballot includes several measures granting exemptions to businesses, widows of veterans, older and disabled taxpayers and homeowners in general.
Brazos River pecan farm could play outsized role in Waco’s water future
The city of Waco is seeking state approval to pump water out of the Brazos, miles downstream of a riverside property it bought for water rights.

