News Flash

News Flash

Posted on: September 12, 2023

City seeks volunteers for Queen City neighborhood cleanup

People in safety vests gathered in a park. A registration booth stands in the corner of the block.

PHOTO #1: Volunteers gather in Queen City Park to prepare for a cleanup hosted by Keep Victoria Beautiful in March 2023 in the Queen City neighborhood.

PHOTO #2: Jodi Yancey-Sandoval with Teens Grounded leads a group of volunteers during a cleanup hosted b...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: September 12, 2023

Keep Victoria Beautiful hosts citywide Fall Sweep

A woman with a megaphone addresses a crowd of people in safety vests

PHOTO #1: Keep Victoria Beautiful Executive Director Christy Youker addresses a group of volunteers before the Keep Victoria Beautiful Fall Sweep on Sept. 9. Photo contributed by Susan Armstrong Cain.

PHOTO #2: Volunteers picked up 275 bags of trash during...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Victoria earns statewide award for beautification initiatives, outreach

A boy in a red shirt runs to put trash in a bin. Other children in red shirts wait in lines.

PHOTO #1: The City of Victoria Environmental Services hosted a “recycle relay” in partnership with Nazareth Academy in January 2023. Participants raced to put recyclables and trash in the correct bins.

PHOTO #2: Community organizations such as Victoria Col...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: March 28, 2023

City plans mural for Laurent Street underpass

Mural featuring a guitar, accordion, Mexican marigolds and a mariachi silhouette

PHOTO #1: This concept rendering from UP Art Studio shows a proposed design for the Laurent Street underpass mural.

PHOTO #2: This concept rendering from UP Art Studio shows a proposed design for the Laurent Street underpass mural.

PHOTO #3: This concept re...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: November 25, 2020

Keep Victoria Beautiful seeks volunteers for beautification event

KVB_Final Logo

Keep Victoria Beautiful is seeking volunteers to help with the organization’s first community-led beautification event since its revival and integration with the City earlier this year.

“We’d like to host these types of events on a regular basis going forw...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: September 22, 2020

Environmental Services reschedules Monday pickups

A Solid Waste truck collects residential recycling in Victoria.

PHOTO: A Solid Waste truck collects residential recycling in Victoria.

Residents who are normally scheduled for trash, recycling and yard waste collection Monday will have an adjusted schedule this week only. 

  • Trash will be collected on Wednesday, ...
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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: August 31, 2020

City of Victoria initiates beautification at water plant

Clean, pale-colored water tanks

PHOTO #1: The water tanks at Water Pumping Plant No. 3, located at Airline Road and Ben Jordan Street, recently were pressure-washed.

PHOTO #2: The water tanks at Water Pumping Plant No. 3, located at Airline Road and Ben Jordan Street, recently were dark-...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: August 24, 2020

Starting Sept. 1, trash loads must be secured with tarps

Tarp or Ticket, Tarp your load or receive a fine

PHOTO: City of Victoria Environmental and Beautification coordinator Tiffany Koenig and Victoria County Precinct 1 Constable Gary Smejkal appear in a promotional image for the “Tarp or Ticket” campaign, which encourages residents to properly secure garbag...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: July 13, 2020

Community Appearance Division unveils new Welcome to Victoria sign

Councilman, mayor and Environmental Services director in front of "Welcome to Victoria" sign

PHOTO #1: From left, Councilman Rafael De La Garza III, City of Victoria Mayor Rawley McCoy and Environmental Services Director Darryl Lesak stand in front of the newly renovated “Welcome to Victoria” sign on Bloomington Highway.

PHOTO #2: The City of Vict...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: June 1, 2020

City selects Keep Victoria Beautiful board chair, officers

Shannon Longoria at Keep Victoria Beautiful house

PHOTO: Keep Victoria Beautiful board chair Shannon Longoria stands May 22 outside the headquarters of the City’s Keep Victoria Beautiful program at the historic Hiller House, 3003 N. Vine St.

The City of Victoria Environmental Services revived its Keep Vic...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services
Posted on: May 15, 2020

Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity provides breakfast to Solid Waste staff

Solid Waste group photo

Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity provided breakfast to City of Victoria Solid Waste staff May 14 as a way of saying thank you for their hard work. Solid Waste staff has been working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including during the “Stay Home – S...

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2020 - Spotlight - Environmental Services

News Flash

Posted on: September 12, 2023

First responders, postal workers to play charity basketball game

Large group photo on a basketball court

PHOTO #1: Members of the City of Victoria basketball team and the U.S. Postal Service basketball team, along with cheerleaders from Victoria West High School and Vickers Elementary School, pose for a photo at the 2022 charity basketball game at Faith Fami...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: September 12, 2023

Victoria Fire Department to host EMT training course, Fire Academy

Two uniformed firefighters at a training facility with an ambulance in the background

Residents will have a chance to earn their emergency medical technician certifications close to home as the Victoria Fire Department partners with the Magnolia Beach Volunteer Fire Department to host an EMT-B training course.

The program will be 8 a.m.-5 p...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Civilian Responder Program trains residents to save lives

Two people rappel down the side of a metal building

PHOTO #1: Residents will be able to rappel down the side of a building during the Civilian Responder Program hosted by the Victoria Fire Department. This photo was taken during the 2021 program.

PHOTO #2: Residents will be able to use the Jaws of Life to c...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Victoria Fire Department meets gold standard for heart attack treatment

Two pieces of electronic equipment with display monitors. One is connected to small white EKG pads.

PHOTO: A cardiac monitor and electrocardiogram (EKG) defibrillator are displayed at Victoria Fire Department Station Two, 2708 Miori Lane. This equipment is used by firefighter/EMTs to provide first aid to patients with heart attack symptoms.

The City of V...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: October 15, 2020

Victoria Fire Department marks 1 year of blood transfusions in the field

Equipment including an ice chest, a bag of frozen blood and medical tubes laid out on a table.

PHOTO: Victoria Fire Department Emergency Medical Services carries equipment, shown here, to provide blood transfusions to critically ill or injured patients.

Today marks one year since the Victoria Fire Department began providing whole blood transfusions ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: October 14, 2020

City of Victoria to provide no-cost flu shots to homeless and low-income residents

Flyer advertising the flu shot clinic Oct. 26-28, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Queen City Park

The Victoria Fire Department is partnering with local health care providers and nonprofits to provide a no-cost flu shot clinic for homeless and low-income residents 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 26-28 at Queen City Park.

The clinic will be funded by Community Devel...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: September 29, 2020

Victoria Fire Department marks Fire Prevention Week with contest

A Dalmatian in a fire helmet cooks at a stove. Text reads "Serve up fire safety in the kitchen!&#

Victoria Fire Department employees are producing a collection of videos to teach the public about fire safety, and residents will have the opportunity to vote for their favorites in honor of Fire Prevention Week.

“Normally at this time of year, we host our...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: September 22, 2020

Victoria Fire Department employees achieve honors

Fire medics Luis Malone-Ordaz and Marcos Tudon

Victoria Fire Department fire medic Luis Malone-Ordaz was named Fire Fighter of the Year by the Victoria Northside Rotary Club. Malone-Ordaz has been with the Victoria Fire Department since May 2015. Before that, he worked for Gemini Ambulance Service in ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: September 8, 2020

Victoria Fire Department to host livestreamed 9/11 ceremony

Members of the Victoria Fire Department pose for a photo

PHOTO #1: Members of the Victoria Fire Department pose for a photo at the San Antonio 110 9/11 Memorial Climb on Sept. 11, 2019. This year’s event will be hosted remotely at multiple locations, including Memorial Stadium in Victoria.

PHOTO #2: Co...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: August 31, 2020

Victoria Fire Department swears in 8 recruits

Eight fire department recruits are sworn in at the DeLeon Plaza gazebo

From top left, firefighter/paramedic Leanna Richter, firefighter/EMT Madelyn Bishop, firefighter/EMT Rebekah Thompson, firefighter/EMT Ethan Strzelcyk, firefighter/EMT Angelo Stafford, firefighter/EMT Wyatt Andrews, firefighter/EMT Jalen Rangel and inspec...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: June 22, 2020

2 engineers retire from Victoria Fire Department after more than 20 years

Firefighter engineers Joel Gomez and Raul Liendo

City of Victoria Fire Department engineers Joel Gomez and Raul Liendo, who will both retire this month, have been with the department long enough to remember when Fire and EMS were separate operations.

Gomez and Liendo both started as members of Victoria E...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: May 26, 2020

Victoria Fire Department aids regional task force in testing nursing home patients

Fire department paramedic wearing scrubs

PHOTO #1: Firefighter paramedic Pamela Yanta with the Victoria Fire Department prepares May 21 to help test nursing home residents for COVID-19. In order to comply with Governor Greg Abbott’s May 11 order that all nursing home residents and staff be teste...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire
Posted on: May 22, 2020

City’s fire department earns American Heart Association recognition

Victoria Fire Department Patch

The City of Victoria’s Fire Department has earned the American Heart Association’s 2020 Mission: Lifeline EMS Gold Plus recognition for its efforts to improve care for patients suffering from an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a serious type o...

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2020 - Spotlight - Fire

News Flash

Posted on: August 29, 2023

Victoria Public Library card holders can receive discounts during September

A library card and application form sit on a pile of books, an audiobook and a tablet.

PHOTO: A Victoria Public Library card can be used to check out books, audiobooks, electronic devices and many other materials.

The Victoria Public Library is partnering with area businesses to offer discounts and giveaways to library card holders during Na...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: August 29, 2023

City seeks volunteer applicants for Victoria Public Library Advisory Board

In a crowded library, two women, one of them holding a baby, approach a table booth setup.

PHOTO #1: Residents learn about services offered by the Victoria Public Library and other local organizations during the library’s Summer Fun Fest Kickoff in June 2023.

PHOTO #2: Residents use a variety of materials to create art during the Victoria Public...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: July 25, 2023

Victoria Public Library receives grant for on-site material pickup lockers

A large metal locker structure with many individual lockers and a touchscreen

PHOTO #1: The Victoria Public Library has received a grant to add on-site lockers where residents will be able to pick up and drop off materials. The lockers will be customized with the library’s logo, the City of Victoria logo and acknowledgement of the ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: June 27, 2023

Victoria Public Library expands patrons’ digital access with CloudLibrary

Images of phones with screens from CloudLibrary. Text: CloudLibrary, a stunning app for avid readers

PHOTO: Victoria County residents can download the CloudLibrary app to access ebooks and audiobooks from a network of 64 Texas libraries. Image contributed by CloudLibrary.

Victoria County residents can now access more than 237,000 ebooks and audiobooks fro...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: December 1, 2020

Victoria Public Library to host family holiday festivities

A woman and two children build gingerbread houses from graham crackers, milk cartons and candy.

PHOTO: Event attendees build a gingerbread house using graham crackers and milk cartons during the Victoria Public Library’s 2019 gingerbread house workshop.

The Victoria Public Library is inviting Victoria families to enjoy the holiday season safely durin...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: September 24, 2020

Library partners with VISD to provide e-book access to students

Young adult e-books and audiobooks are displayed on a webpage.

PHOTO #1: Young adult e-books and audiobooks are available through the Victoria Public Library’s digital content provider, OverDrive.

The Victoria Public Library is collaborating with its digital content provider, OverDrive, and the Victoria Independent Sc...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: September 22, 2020

Library partners with Meals on Wheels to deliver materials to seniors

A paper form listing genres of books, CDs and DVDs to be circled according to preference.

PHOTO #1: A form created by the Victoria Public Library allows Meals on Wheels clients to indicate materials they would like to have delivered to them.

PHOTO #2: Joshua Bonorden poses with one of the tiny libraries he helped build for the Victoria County U...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: August 10, 2020

Victoria Public Library shares live performances by local artists

Singer/songwriter Jerry James plays guitar in library's Bronte Room

PHOTO: Victoria singer/songwriter Jerry James plays the guitar during a performance July 31 that was livestreamed from the Victoria Public Library’s Bronte Room as part of the library’s VPL Jams series featuring local musicians.

Residents who enjoy listeni...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: August 3, 2020

City leaders, community members read aloud to promote literacy

Hunter Follett, CEO of Tejas Production Services, reads aloud

PHOTO: Hunter Follett, CEO of Tejas Production Services, reads aloud from a book in his office on July 30. The reading was filmed for part of a video series to promote National Book Lovers Day on Aug. 9.

The City of Victoria this week invites residents to ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: June 30, 2020

Day care honors Victoria Public Library staff member for outreach efforts

Woman reads aloud from picture book

PHOTO: Rebecca Sevier, aka “Ms. Rebecca,” reads from a picture book during Story Time Live on May 20. Sevier was honored Friday at the Tiny Sprouts Academy graduation ceremony.

When COVID-19 stopped Victoria Public Library assistant Rebecca Sevier from vis...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library
Posted on: June 8, 2020

Library forgives fines during closure, begins return to normalcy

Girl decorates library window

PHOTO #1: Amelia Ripa decorates a window Wednesday during the Victoria Public Library’s Teen Area Window Painting event.

PHOTO #2: New carpeting was installed in the Victoria Public Library while the building was closed to the public.

PHOTO #3: Mary Jane Ri...

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2020 - Spotlight - Library

News Flash

Posted on: June 27, 2023

City to begin DeLeon Plaza expansion

A large permanent stage at DeLeon Plaza near the O'Connor building. People watch and mill around.

PHOTO #1: As part of the DeLeon Plaza expansion project, the grassy seating area on the north side of the plaza will be gently sloped to meet the new paved performance area. The water feature and restroom awning shown in this conceptual rendering are not ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: November 24, 2020

City of Victoria to host virtual lighting ceremony for Christmas tree

Decorated Christmas tree stands at edge of DeLeon Plaza across from One O'Connor building

PHOTO: The H-E-B Christmas Tree stands in downtown Victoria on Nov. 23. The tree will be fully activated with lights and music after a lighting ceremony Dec. 4.

DeLeon Plaza will be all aglow with lighted decorations this holiday season, and the crown jewe...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: November 10, 2020

City’s Victoria Main Street Program to host 1st Artisan Market

Artisan Market. 21st of November, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 200 S. Main St. behind The Box Coffee.

Residents will be able to shop for art and handmade creations while enjoying food and live music at the City of Victoria Main Street Program’s new monthly Artisan Market starting Nov. 21.

“We’ve had many requests for more art in downtown Victoria, and loca...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: October 20, 2020

Main Street Program invites children to decorate ornaments for tree

Wooden ornaments with Christmas designs are displayed in a faux snowscape with Christmas lights.

Tiny tots can help the Victoria Main Street Program make downtown merry and bright by decorating ornaments for a giant Christmas tree.

The Main Street Program will kick off the Christmas season Dec. 4 by lighting a 30-foot Christmas tree at DeLeon Plaza. D...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: September 29, 2020

Victoria Main Street Program, Welder Center partner for film series

The Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts at night with neon lighting

Residents who want to enjoy the familiar pastime of a night at the movies can come to the Leo J. Welder Center for a safe, socially distanced experience while enjoying food from some of Victoria’s downtown restaurants.

The Victoria Main Street Program has ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: September 8, 2020

City adds hanging flower baskets at DeLeon Plaza

City staff hang flower baskets from the lampposts at the corners of DeLeon Plaza

PHOTO #1: The City of Victoria’s Community Appearance Division hangs flower baskets Sept. 1 from the lampposts at the corners of DeLeon Plaza.

PHOTO #2: Flower baskets filled with sweet potato vines and mandevilla vines hang Sept. 1 from a lamppost at DeLe...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: July 20, 2020

Victoria Main Street Program launches monthly newsletter

Victoria Main Street Program newsletter

Victoria residents who want to stay informed about new business openings, events and other things happening downtown can do so by subscribing to the Victoria Main Street Program’s email newsletter.

The first edition of the newsletter was released July 17 a...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: July 6, 2020

Victoria Main Street Program places banners downtown

Victoria Main Street Program banner

PHOTO: One of the new Victoria Main Street Program banners displays the program’s logo downtown.

The Victoria Main Street Program last week finished placing 42 red, white and blue banners downtown that feature the program’s logo and add a splash of color t...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street
Posted on: July 6, 2020

Victoria Main Street Program designated as Main Street America Affiliate

Victoria Main Street Program logo

The Victoria Main Street Program has been recognized as one of 341 Main Street America Affiliate programs for 2020.

The Main Street Program has received this designation since 2012. The affiliate program recognizes Main Street Programs that subscribe to Ma...

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2020 - Spotlight - Main Street

News Flash

Posted on: September 19, 2023

Registration will open soon for Christmas Parade of Lights

A parade float with heavy machinery in a toy shop, elves, a Christmas tree character

PHOTO #1: Holt Cat won the award for Most Use of Lights during the 2022 Christmas Parade of Lights on Dec. 3 in downtown Victoria.

PHOTO #2: Con-Metal Contractors won the award for Spirit of Christmas during the Christmas Parade of Lights on Dec. 3 in down...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: May 30, 2023

City seeks volunteer applicants for Parks & Recreation Commission

Woman seated at council dais

PHOTO #1: Parks & Recreation Commissioner Ashley Magee comments on the Riverside Park boating access project during a March 13 meeting at the City Council chambers.

PHOTO #2: Parks & Recreation Commission Chair W. Lee Keeling speaks during a ground...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: September 12, 2022

City breaks ground on duck pond

A conceptual rendering of the new Riverside Park duck pond. What was once two ponds is now one.

PHOTO #1: This conceptual rendering shows the new design for the Riverside Park duck pond.

PHOTO #2: The City of Victoria hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Riverside Park duck pond construction Sept. 12. Shown from left are City Manager Jesús A. G...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: December 1, 2020

Riverside Golf Course superintendent earns regional recognition

Riverside Golf Course Superintendent Brian Woolard, seated, poses with plaque

City of Victoria Riverside Golf Course Superintendent Brian Woolard recently received the 2020 Golf Course Superintendent of the Year award from the Texas Gulf Coast Superintendents Association. He was nominated for this recognition by his peers within th...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: November 17, 2020

Disc golf rentals now available at Riverside Park

Smiling woman stands near a disc golf goal basket in Riverside Park that contains discs and a bag.

PHOTO #1: Ashley Magee, owner of Flow Paddle Co, poses Nov. 14 at one of the disc golf baskets at Riverside Park with discs that are available to rent through her company. Contributed photo by Colby Calcote.

PHOTO #2: Dwayne Calcote plays disc golf Nov. 14...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: November 10, 2020

Parks & Recreation to host ‘reverse Christmas parade,’ fireworks show

Santa Claus waves from sleigh-themed parade float. Trees are visible in the background.

Victoria residents are accustomed to spending the first weekend in December sitting along the streets of downtown and watching a festive Christmas parade pass by, but this year, to ensure residents can enjoy the parade while keeping a safe distance from e...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: October 13, 2020

Parks & Recreation adds pickleball at Victoria Community Center Park

Pickleball players stand at a distance from each other on a pickleball court.

PHOTO #1: Some of the volunteers who worked to convert the new pickleball courts at the Victoria Community Center Park, from left, are Nazmije Neziri, Jan Wendt, Katie Merriman, Dewayne Merriman, Wayne Pozzi, Danna Garland, David Peters, Buddy Breivogel a...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: October 1, 2020

Parks & Recreation to host drive-thru trick-or-treat event at Riverside Park

Free event presented by Parks & Recreation. Drive-thru trick-or treat in Riverside Park 5-7 p.m.

Residents can put on their Halloween costumes and come to Riverside Park 5-7 p.m. on Oct. 24 for a drive-thru trick-or-treat experience hosted by the City of Victoria Parks and Recreation.

“We haven’t had a Halloween event in a couple of years, so I was ex...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: September 3, 2020

Splash pads will safely reopen to the public Saturday

Children play at the Ethel Lee Tracy Park Splash Pad during the facility’s 2018 grand opening.

PHOTO: Children play at the Ethel Lee Tracy Park Splash Pad during the facility’s 2018 grand opening.

Victoria’s splash pads will reopen to the public Saturday and are scheduled to remain open seven days a week through Oct. 25.

The splash pads have been clo...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: August 31, 2020

Parks & Recreation, Academy Sports + Outdoors give away gift cards

Woman holds giant Academy Sports and Outdoors gift card

PHOTO #1: Laura Janis, first-grade teacher and after-school program director at Our Lady of Victory Catholic School, holds a $250 gift card provided by Academy Sports + Outdoors. Janis was the first-place winner in the back-to-school shopping spree giveaw...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: August 24, 2020

City seeks applicants for Parks & Recreation Commission

Parks & Recreation Commission meets for Zoom meeting

PHOTO: From top left, City of Victoria Parks and Recreation Director Jason Alfaro; City Attorney Thomas Gwosdz; Parks and Recreation Commission Chairperson W. Lee Keeling; and commission members Gloria Rodriguez, Jesse J. Olivarez, Marc Hinojosa and Gail ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: August 17, 2020

City’s Parks & Recreation to host annual kayak clinic

Gabby Anglin paddles in kayak

PHOTO: Recreation coordinator Gabby Anglin paddles in the Stillwater Pool at Son Valley Ranch during Parks & Recreation’s kayak clinic in 2019. This year’s clinic will be Aug. 22. 

Residents will have a chance to learn the basics of kayaking b...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: August 3, 2020

Parks & Recreation to host youth sports, establishes health guidelines

Sports equipment with Academy Sports and Outdoors logo

PHOTO: Academy Sports + Outdoors donated equipment to the City of Victoria Parks & Recreation as part of a sponsorship for the department’s youth flag football league.

The City of Victoria Parks & Recreation will host a Punt, Pass and Kick USA foot...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: July 20, 2020

Parks & Recreation employees receive nationally recognized certification

Recreation Services Manager Jaymie Heibel and recreation coordinator Gabby Anglin

City of Victoria Recreation Services Manager Jaymie Heibel and recreation coordinator Gabby Anglin on Wednesday passed the test to receive their Certified Park and Recreation Professional certifications, a nationally recognized designation conferred by th...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: June 24, 2020

Parks & Recreation to host one-day soccer tournament

Soccer ball on grassy field

PHOTO: A soccer ball sits on the grass at Rippamonti Field in Riverside Park.

The City of Victoria Parks & Recreation will host a one-day soccer tournament July 11 at Lowe Field and Rippamonti Field in Riverside Park.

“Soccer is the most played sport ac...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: June 22, 2020

Riverside Golf Course enjoying above-par conditions on greens

Man stands on golf course wearing facial covering

Longtime players at Riverside Golf Course tell Head Golf Professional Rolando Hernandez that the current course conditions are some of the best they’ve ever seen.

“Some of them have been playing at this golf course for 15 or 20 years,” Hernandez said. “So ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: June 15, 2020

Fireworks show will be drive-in celebration with new amenities, distancing

Fireworks

Parks & Recreation will host the City of Victoria’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show at the Victoria Community Center in a new drive-in format, allowing residents to park their cars to watch the patriotic show while keeping their distance from oth...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: May 29, 2020

City’s Parks & Recreation partners with kayak business

Ashley Magee poses with kayaks

The City Parks & Recreation has partnered with Flow Paddle Co and starting Monday, the company will rent kayaks, inner tubes and bikes and offer guided kayaking tours.

“We’re very excited to be able to partner with Flow Paddle Co to offer this service ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: May 26, 2020

City’s new online registration launches for summer sports leagues

Varsity Champs- VTX Warriors

The City of Victoria’s Parks & Recreation department has opened registration for its summer sports leagues through a new online system, and the public is encouraged to participate.

Participants will be able to register for the summer leagues using Comm...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec
Posted on: May 18, 2020

New Parks and Recreation director is experienced master planner

Jason_Alfaro

The City of Victoria’s next Parks and Recreation director is a Victoria native with 17 years of experience in parks and recreation, including capital improvement projects, master planning and day-to-day operations of parks systems.

Jason Alfaro will begin ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Parks & Rec

News Flash

Posted on: September 19, 2023

Victoria Police Department to kick off National Night Out with residents

Kids perform karate moves in front of De Leon Plaza

PHOTO #1: Students with Victoria Karate Academy perform at the National Night Out Kick-Off Party in 2021.

PHOTO #2: Victoria Police Department Sgt. Adam Banda and children play in foam during the National Night Out Kick-Off Party in 2021.

Victoria Residents...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: September 12, 2023

First responders, postal workers to play charity basketball game

Large group photo on a basketball court

PHOTO #1: Members of the City of Victoria basketball team and the U.S. Postal Service basketball team, along with cheerleaders from Victoria West High School and Vickers Elementary School, pose for a photo at the 2022 charity basketball game at Faith Fami...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: September 5, 2023

Victoria Police Department receives $9,000 for SWAT equipment

Large group photo with most wearing police shirts or uniforms at Dickey's Barbecue Pit

PHOTO #1: Staff with the Victoria Police Department, City of Victoria Finance and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit pose for a photo Aug. 31 at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 9006 N. Navarro St. Suite C. The Victoria Police Department received a $9,000 grant from the Dickey ...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: August 18, 2023

Victoria Police Department hosts walkout ceremony for sergeant’s retirement

A woman in police uniform speaks at a podium in front of the Police Department building

PHOTO #1: Sgt. Melissa Rendon-Wasicek speaks during an Aug. 16 walkout ceremony in honor of her retirement from the Victoria Police Department.

PHOTO #2: The Victoria Police Department hosted a walkout ceremony Aug. 16 in honor of Sgt. Melissa Rendon-Wasic...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: August 17, 2023

Victoria Police Department announces new deputy chief, wave of promotions

Uniformed policeman hands a badge to uniformed policewoman and shakes her hand

PHOTO #1: Victoria Police Department Deputy Chief Moya, right, accepts a badge from Chief Chuck Young in honor of her promotion to deputy chief during a ceremony Aug. 17 at the Victoria Community Center annex. 

The Victoria Police Department’s new...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: August 8, 2023

Victoria Police Department to kick off National Night Out

A uniformed policeman holding a snow cone and a woman in a police polo pose for a picture

PHOTO #1: From left, Victoria Police Department Officer John Turner and Public Safety Community Affairs Manager Lauren Meaux pose for a photo during the National Night Out Kick-Off Party in 2021.

PHOTO #2: Children play with a giant Connect Four set provid...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: September 29, 2020

Victoria Police Department to host COVID-safe ‘National Night In’

National Night In parade route. For list of neighborhoods, visit the VPD Facebook page

The Victoria Police Department is putting a new spin on its National Night Out this year with National Night In, replacing community meetups with safer methods of building camaraderie between neighbors and first responders.

“National Night Out is usually a...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: September 11, 2020

City announces chief of police finalists

Police Patches

The City of Victoria’s search for a new chief of police has resulted this week in the selection of three finalists. 

“The chief of police holds one of the most important positions within the City,” City Manager Jesús A. Garza said. “Working closel...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: June 23, 2020

Victoria Police Department earns trust by upholding core values

Interim Police Chief J. Mark Jameson

Recent high-profile incidents of police violence have led to a breakdown of trust in law enforcement. We have seen citizens rising up across the nation to demand accountability and have been stunned to see how some protests have turned violent.

The Black L...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: June 10, 2020

Community says goodbye to Police Chief J.J. Craig

State Representative Geanie Morrison addresses attendees

PHOTO #1: State Representative Geanie Morrison addresses attendees at a farewell gathering for outgoing Victoria Police Department Chief J.J. Craig on Monday at the Victoria Community Center. City employees and representatives of various community organiz...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police
Posted on: June 3, 2020

City of Victoria Police receives $500,000 grant

Police Patches

The City of Victoria Police Department was awarded a $500,000 grant Tuesday from the Community Oriented Policing Services Hiring Program, which provides funding to law enforcement agencies to hire new personnel.

“We’re excited that the Victoria Police Depa...

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2020 - Spotlight - Police

News Flash

Blogs

58 Stories
Posted on: September 19, 2023

Helping business owners keep waste out of our waterways

Lucia_Hernandez

You may have heard the phrase “only rain down the storm drain,” but what about pollutants that are washed down other types of drains— in plants, factories, restaurants, and many other businesses?

There are two independent syst...

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Blogs
Posted on: September 5, 2023

Victoria Regional Airport offers plenty of reasons to fly local

Airport director Lenny Llerena

Imagine flying into George Bush Intercontinental Airport late at night after a lengthy vacation or business trip. You’re tired and jet-lagged, and you want nothing more than to go home and rest. Would you rather spend another two and a half hour...

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Blogs
Posted on: August 22, 2023

WaterWise helps residents save water and money

Michelle Ozuna

During this time of drought, conserving water is key to keeping our usage within our means. In addition to following drought restrictions, residents are strongly encouraged to practice voluntary conservation as much as possible.

Knowing how much water you&...

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Blogs
Posted on: August 8, 2023

A new year of enhancing livability

Jesús Garza portrait

The new fiscal year is right around the corner, bringing with it a slew of important projects that will help our community thrive.

On Aug. 1, I presented the City’s proposed budget to our City Council. The budget is available for viewing at www.victoriatx....

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Blogs
Posted on: July 25, 2023

Drought contingency plan helps us use water within our means

Public Works Director/City Engineer Ken Gill

As the heat wave stretches on, the high pressure dome bearing down on us is causing another weather condition that we should keep in mind: Rainfall is down across our region, which means that we all need to do our part to conserve water.

The normal river f...

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Blogs
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Scammers pick on seniors, and it’s our job to warn them

Chuck Young

As society continues to advance in the world of technology, so do the tactics of criminals seeking to exploit our more vulnerable populations. Among these groups, seniors find themselves increasingly targeted by fraudsters and scammers. Often trusting and...

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Blogs
Posted on: July 11, 2023

Victoria Fire Department shares summer safety tips

Fire Chief Robert "Tracy" Fox

The Victoria Fire Department is committed to helping residents enjoy a safe and fun summer. Here are some tips you can follow to avoid common summer hazards.

Heat safety

As Texas cooks under a historic heat wave, it’s more important than ever to t...

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Blogs
Posted on: June 27, 2023

Come celebrate Park and Recreation Month with these fun events

Jason Alfaro

July is Park and Recreation Month, and the City of Victoria Parks & Recreation will be offering many different events as we take a moment to reflect on the importance of enhancing livability through Parks & Recreation programs.

This year’...

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Blogs
Posted on: June 13, 2023

Prepare for hurricane while waters are calm

Rick McBrayer

For the Victoria City/County Office of Emergency Management, disaster preparation never stops. Throughout the year, we train our partner agencies to respond to a host of disasters, from hurricanes and floods to hazmat incidents and terrorist attacks.

We es...

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Blogs
Posted on: May 9, 2023

No neighborhood left behind: Agencies revitalizing Queen City are stronger together

People help to apply a new coat of beige paint to a home. One person on ladder, one with a brush

PHOTO #1: Volunteers paint the outside of a home during the March 4 Keep Victoria Beautiful cleanup in Queen City. The maintenance project was part of the Brush Up program, a partnership between Keep Victoria Beautiful and Golden Crescent Habitat for Huma...

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Blogs
Posted on: April 25, 2023

Victoria Housing Finance Corporation talks current, upcoming projects

Mike Etienne, at the City Council podium, addresses HFC members seated at the dais.

PHOTO #1: Assistant City Manager Dr. Mike Etienne, right, updates the Victoria Housing Finance Corporation board—from left, Councilwoman Jan Scott, Councilman Rafael DeLaGarza and Councilman Dr. Andrew Young—about Golden Crescent Habit...

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Blogs
Posted on: April 18, 2023

Help us create a safer transportation network for all modes of travel

Julie_Fulgham

As the City seeks to improve our transportation network, we want to make sure that we remember our residents who don’t drive.

The City of Victoria Development Services is developing our first active transportation master plan, and we encourage re...

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Blogs
Posted on: March 21, 2023

Resilient infrastructure helps our community withstand disasters

Jesús Garza portrait

Victoria has been through plenty of storms.

Whether it’s a regional threat like a hurricane or an unexpected event like a winter freeze, we’ve persevered through hazards that have tested our community—and our infrastructure&am...

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Blogs
Posted on: December 1, 2020

City Corner Column: Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation sets goals for prosperous future

Portrait of William R. Blanchard, board president of the Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation

My career has taught me about the type of environment businesses need to thrive. As the CEO of DeTar Healthcare System for nearly 30 years, I knew there were only two ways DeTar’s base of potential patients could grow: if the community grew or if we offer...

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Blogs
Posted on: November 19, 2020

Let’s talk turkey: How to celebrate Thanksgiving during a pandemic

Thanksgiving turkey on a serving platter

COVID-19 precautions like staying inside and staying apart may not fit most people’s idea of a Thanksgiving celebration, but with a few modifications, you can still enjoy the holiday while keeping your loved ones safe.

Curbing the spread of COVID-19 is esp...

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Blogs
Posted on: November 16, 2020

City Corner Column: Victoria Fire Department expands public health role

Fire Chief Robert "Tracy" Fox

When young kids say they want to be firefighters when they grow up, they may not imagine themselves providing flu shots to economically disadvantaged residents to keep hospitalizations low during a global pandemic—but for the Victoria Fire Department, it’...

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Blogs
Posted on: November 10, 2020

Heat your home safely by keeping seasonal hazards in mind

Family forms wide circle around smiling cartoon space heater: I'm so happy when I have my own spa

The weather outside will be frightful before we know it—but before you light a fire in the fireplace or turn on your heating appliances, remember that fire safety is crucial even (and especially) during the colder months.

John Stary, fire inspect...

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Blogs
Posted on: November 3, 2020

City Corner Column: Victoria Regional Airport helps whole community soar

Airport director Lenny Llerena

Imagine flying into George Bush Intercontinental Airport late at night after a lengthy vacation or business trip. You’re tired and jet-lagged, and you want nothing more than to go home and rest. Would you rather spend another two hours driving home or fly...

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Blogs
Posted on: October 27, 2020

As fiscal year begins, capital improvement projects steadily move forward

The proposed duck pond design, featuring a larger water area and gazebo moved to opposite side

PHOTO: An image from a March 3 presentation to City Council shows the proposed new design for the duck pond in Riverside Park.

Fiscal year 2021 kicked off for the City of Victoria on Oct. 1, but whether you notice any changes may depend on where you look.

T...

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Blogs
Posted on: October 13, 2020

PSA shares public health information with Victoria’s Spanish speakers

Josephine Soliz sits at the council dais during the filming of a PSA.

“La familia lo es todo,” Mayor Pro Tem Josephine Soliz implores the camera from her seat on the City Council dais, “y tenemos la responsabilidad de protegernos.”

Family is everything, and we have a responsibility to protect each other.

That’s the message be...

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Blogs
Posted on: October 6, 2020

City Corner Column: Victoria Broadband Commission seeks ways to keep people connected

Assistant City Manager Darrek Ferrell

As society progresses, amenities like electricity and plumbing that were once luxuries for a privileged few become expected and necessary parts of life. In the house where I grew up, we couldn’t get cable TV because of our location relative to rail lines....

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Blogs
Posted on: October 2, 2020

City Corner Column: Music industry professionals, how can we help you?

Joel Novosad

The Convention & Visitors Bureau is seeking volunteers to serve on the new Victoria Music Friendly Advisory Board, an unpaid board that will yield dividends for its members, the City and our community as we seek to harmonize our efforts to cultivate V...

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Blogs
Posted on: September 29, 2020

Census deadline is almost here; here’s why you should respond

Victoria Counts! Census 2020

The window to take part in our nation’s once-in-a-decade head count closes Oct. 5.

As the deadline nears, we realize that residents who haven’t responded yet may have a variety of reasons for not doing so. Nevertheless, we want to emphasize that everyone c...

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Blogs
Posted on: September 22, 2020

City Corner Column: Take a “Minute” to learn about the City

Ashley Strevel

People like to say, “You learn something new every day.” I hope that’s true for Victoria residents, who have plenty of ways to learn about the many services and programs the City offers. 

When choosing where to eat, V...

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Blogs
Posted on: September 15, 2020

Public Works in Action: City smooths out pothole repair process

Bryant Stamps repairs a pothole using one of the City of Victoria’s patch trucks.

PHOTO #1: Equipment operator Bryant Stamps repairs a pothole using one of the City of Victoria’s patch trucks.

PHOTO #2: Crew leader James Toth repairs a pothole using one of the City of Victoria’s patch trucks.

PHOTO #3: Crew leader Hen...

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Blogs
Posted on: September 8, 2020

City Corner Column: With 2021 budget approved, residents can look forward to bright future

Jesus Garza

Last week, the City Council approved the budget for fiscal year 2021. The completed budget represents a culmination of efforts by City leadership to find the best ways to continue addressing the community’s needs and take the next steps toward b...

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Blogs
Posted on: August 31, 2020

Complete Count Committee ramps up Census effort as deadline nears

Complete Count Committee members discuss the 2020 Census at Liberty Coffee Haus

PHOTO: From left, Celeste Menchaca, City of Victoria development coordinator; Ashley Strevel, City of Victoria director of Communications & Public Affairs; Bethany Castro, executive director of Perpetual Help Home; and Jodi Sandoval, community health ...

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Blogs
Posted on: August 24, 2020

City Corner Column: Going virtual brings challenges, new possibilities

IT Director James Foote

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced organizations of every stripe to rethink the way they do business, and the City of Victoria is no exception. As social distancing recommendations have guided us to limit the number of people in City-owned buildings, we&...

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Blogs
Posted on: August 17, 2020

Certified Permit Technician uses love of code to assist residents

Development specialist Dora Gomez works at the front desk

PHOTO: Development specialist Dora Gomez works at the front desk at the City of Victoria Development Center. Gomez holds a Permit Technician Certification from the International Code Council.

Spending hours a day researching building codes may not be most ...

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Blogs
Posted on: August 10, 2020

City Corner Column: Victoria Public Library provides education, entertainment during pandemic

Dayna_Capone

Recently I ran into someone I know while I was assisting with checkouts on a busy day at the Victoria Public Library. As I helped her check out, she thanked me and said, “This is helping me with my mental health.”

It was a reminder of t...

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Blogs
Posted on: August 3, 2020

Census 2020: Why it matters; Reason #5: Census plays role in health care, pandemic recovery

Don't forget to wash your hands and respond to the 2020 Census!

Responding to the U.S. Census is a bit like washing your hands: It’s a simple action that won’t take too much of your time and will help to protect the health of your community.

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided a stark lesson about th...

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Blogs
Posted on: July 27, 2020

City Corner Column: City works to bring you information wherever you are

Ashley Strevel

Whether you’re scrolling through Facebook, Twitter or Instagram; checking email; listening to a podcast; turning on your TV; or picking up the newspaper, the City of Victoria’s Communications & Public Affairs will be there to provi...

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Blogs
Posted on: July 20, 2020

#WeAreParksAndRec: Recreation services manager

Woman on kayak with another woman on dock

To celebrate National Park and Recreation Month, the City of Victoria is spotlighting its Parks & Recreation employees who help make Victoria a great place to live, work and play.

PHOTO: Recreation Services Manager Jaymie Heibel, right, and recreation ...

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Blogs
Posted on: July 13, 2020

City Corner Column: What’s in store for Parks & Recreation? It’s up to you

Parks & Recreation Director Jason Alfaro

I’m excited to be back in my hometown directing Parks & Recreation. Victoria is a city with a lot of natural beauty, and we’ve got a great parks system with good bones and plenty of space for expansion and new amenities. Our recrea...

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Blogs
Posted on: July 6, 2020

#WeAreParksAndRec: Head golf professional

Head Golf Professional Rolando Hernandez wears a face mask at Riverside Golf Course

To celebrate National Park and Recreation Month, the City of Victoria is spotlighting its Parks & Recreation employees who help make Victoria a great place to live, work and play.

When Head Golf Professional Rolando Hernandez tells people his job title...

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Blogs
Posted on: June 29, 2020

City Corner Column: Building a better Victoria through new methods, ongoing projects

Public Works Director/City Engineer Ken Gill

Public Works is taking an increasingly scientific approach to road repairs, gathering information that will help us to provide a pavement management report that will lead to more cost-effective maintenance programs for our streets.  

We’...

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Blogs
Posted on: June 23, 2020

Victoria Police Department earns trust by upholding core values

Interim Police Chief J. Mark Jameson

Recent high-profile incidents of police violence have led to a breakdown of trust in law enforcement. We have seen citizens rising up across the nation to demand accountability and have been stunned to see how some protests have turned violent.

The Black L...

Read on...

Blogs
Posted on: June 22, 2020

We’re prepared for hurricane season. Are you?

Yellow binder open to page displaying City and Office of Emergency Management logos

PHOTO: Environmental Services’ emergency procedures for hurricanes and other disasters are recorded in a yellow binder. The department recently finalized contracts with AshBritt, a debris management company, and TetraTech, a monitoring service c...

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Blogs
Posted on: June 15, 2020

City Corner Column: Looking back, looking forward after 1 year in Victoria

Jesus A. Garza

It’s been a year since I came to Victoria to take on the role of city manager, and both the job and the city have been great. My wife and I love the fact that Victoria is a small enough community to feel family-oriented but big enough to have am...

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Blogs
Posted on: June 8, 2020

Fun things to do in Victoria this summer

Kayakers on the Guadalupe River

Summer is a time for relaxation, and this year we’ve definitely earned it. The kids have logged out of their virtual classes, and with some pandemic restrictions being lifted, it’s likely that you’re looking for a cure for yo...

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Blogs
Posted on: June 1, 2020

City Corner Column: Maintenance, custodial staff keep City buildings safe throughout pandemic

Roger Welder

When you come to City offices to apply for a permit or pay your water bill, you may not give much thought to the maintenance and custodial workers who keep the building running. Today, however, I’d like to commend my staff for their excellent re...

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Blogs
Posted on: May 16, 2020

City Corner Column: Helping downtown thrive through COVID-19 and beyond

Danielle_Williams

Danielle Williams, Victoria Main Street Program director and interim director of Parks and Recreation 

It seems like more and more people nowadays are visiting Victoria’s historic downtown after hours, stopping by to go for a jog or walk...

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Blogs
Posted on: May 11, 2020

Lessons learned from disasters, part 2: Hurricane Harvey, COVID-19

Emergency Operations Center during Hurricane Harvey

In the second part of my interview with Chief Fox we cover Hurricane Harvey and COVID-19, both so impactful to Victoria in such different ways.

This blog post is the second in a two-part series about Fire Chief Robert Fox’s experiences with major...

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Blogs
Posted on: May 4, 2020

City Corner Column: 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan outlines long-term goals for Victoria

Maggie Bergeron

Transportation planning is often a moving target. The City’s Development Services department uses the best data available on demographics and growth trends to plan far into the future, but these goals still must be revised and updated on a regul...

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Blogs
Posted on: April 24, 2020

Lessons learned from disasters, part 1: 1998 flood

1998 flood

Ashley Scott, digital media specialist for the City of Victoria

During a person’s career there are always moments that stand out. For most these may be big projects or promotions. For a firefighter, though, these times may include natural disaste...

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Blogs
Posted on: April 17, 2020

City Corner Column: Communication can be used for good during public health crisis

Ashley Strevel

There’s a profound word picture in the Bible that depicts how we can become refined through trials, much like gold becomes when it is put through the fire. It’s a parallel to the process of character growth, a concept I’m sur...

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Blogs
Posted on: April 9, 2020

Things you can do while you’re staying home, staying safe

Stay Home, Stay Safe

Staying at home can be frustrating if you’re not used to it, especially if it’s just one of many challenges you’re facing during the COVID-19 situation. However, following the City and County “Stay Home – ...

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Blogs
Posted on: April 6, 2020

City Corner Column: Coronavirus Liaison Team seeks out problems, solutions

Portable handwashing station

The recommendation to wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds seems straightforward enough—unless you’re out on the street and don’t have ready access to soap and water.

That’s just one of the problems taken up by ...

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Blogs
Posted on: March 29, 2020

Census 2020: Why it matters; Reason #4: Census will determine representation

Victoria Counts! Census 2020

They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes our population.

During the last census 10 years ago, Texas’ population was clocked at 25,145,561, and the U.S. Census Bureau projects that our state grew more than 15% between the...

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Blogs
Posted on: March 23, 2020

Support your community during COVID-19 situation

Joel Novosad

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Texas Governor’s Office and the White House are advising residents to avoid gatherings of 10 people or more in order to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus. As always, the City of Victoria...

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Blogs
Posted on: March 16, 2020

Census 2020: Why it matters; Reason #3: Demographic data helps with retail recruitment

Victoria Counts! Census 2020

Do you want to see more shopping or restaurant options in Victoria? You can help by responding to the 2020 Census.

We’re all familiar with the excitement caused by the arrival of a favorite national retail chain in our city as well as the heartbr...

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Blogs
Posted on: March 9, 2020

City Corner Column: Placido Benavides Drive helps design Victoria’s future

Julie Fulgham

Take a drive along the newly opened Placido Benavides Drive from Navarro Street to Ethel Lee Tracy Park. As you do, look around at the wide-open fields and imagine the possibilities for this blank canvas – new neighborhoods, a Class A office spa...

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Blogs
Posted on: May 27, 2020

Grant funding drives big changes in Victoria Transit system

Shelter at transit stop

If you were excited to see a sleek new bus stop being installed at the Victoria College Science Center, complete with a bike rack and solar-powered lighting, then get ready to see even more upgrades at a total of 48 Victoria Transit stops across the city....

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Blogs
Posted on: February 24, 2020

City Corner Column: Are you helping us to keep Victoria beautiful?

Tiffany Koenig

If you’ve driven by Navarro and the Loop this past week, you’ve probably seen City crews chipping away at the litter in the drainage ditch near IHOP, doing their part to turn our public spaces into something we can all be proud of.

The ...

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Blogs
Posted on: February 10, 2020

City Corner Column: Plan 2035: Victoria’s road map to success

Jesus Garza

Since coming to Victoria, I’ve had countless conversations with elected officials, business leaders and community stakeholders who’ve shared their ideas about what’s important to them and our city. Most of them want the same ...

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Blogs
Posted on: February 5, 2020

Census 2020: Why it matters; Reason #2: Accurate count helps schools get resources they need

Victoria Counts! Census 2020

If school district officials receive funding to provide lunch for 50 children, one can imagine the last thing they would want is for 250 hungry students to show up when lunchtime rolls around.

Having an accurate head count in the 2020 Census impacts more t...

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Blogs
Posted on: February 5, 2020

City Corner Column: Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation: Promises made, promises kept

Gilbert Reyna

The clothes you just bought are helping to pay for road repairs, recreational facilities and a wide variety of other projects that help make Victoria a better place to live and work.

On Jan. 27, the Victoria Sales Tax Development Corporation will gather fo...

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Blogs
Posted on: February 5, 2020

Census 2020: Why it matters; Reason #1: The 2020 Census determines federal funding

Victoria Counts! Census 2020

The 2020 Census is right around the corner, and with it comes an opportunity for Victoria to show the federal government just how much our city has grown. Maybe you already know that the census is used to gather data for representation and other purposes,...

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Blogs

News Flash

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Posted on: September 19, 2023

Victoria Police Department to kick off National Night Out with residents

A uniformed police officer and three kids run around in foam bubbles

PHOTO: Victoria Police Department Sgt. Adam Banda and children play in foam during the National Night Out Kick-Off Party in 2021.

Victoria Residents are invited to a fun afternoon of family-friendly entertainment and community resources at the Victoria Pol...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 19, 2023

Registration will open soon for Christmas Parade of Lights

A parade float with heavy machinery in a toy shop, elves, a Christmas tree character

PHOTO #1: Holt Cat won the award for Most Use of Lights during the 2022 Christmas Parade of Lights on Dec. 3 in downtown Victoria.

PHOTO #2: Con-Metal Contractors won the award for Spirit of Christmas during the Christmas Parade of Lights on Dec. 3 in down...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 19, 2023

Application period opens for 2024 Citizens Academy

Woman stands in front of a classroom and gives a presentation

PHOTO #1: Communications Director Ashley Strevel welcomes participants during the 2023 Citizens Academy.

PHOTO #2: City Manager Jesús A. Garza teaches participants about the City’s structure and goals during the 2023 Citizens Academy.

PHOTO #3: Environmenta...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 19, 2023

City of Victoria Municipal Court to host Community Resource Fair

Two women pose at a Municipal Court booth covered in flyers and brochures at the Victoria Mall

PHOTO: From left, Elizabeth Montes and Haley Roberts with the City of Victoria Municipal Court provide information about Municipal Court resources during an event hosted by the Region 3 Early Childhood Intervention Program in April at the Victoria Mall.

Re...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 19, 2023

Residents invited to share their memories during bicentennial year

City of Victoria presents 2024 bicentennial celebration. Victoria turns 200. www.victoriatx200.com

The City of Victoria will celebrate its bicentennial next year, and the City is inviting residents to help celebrate our history by sharing their memories of Victoria.

The City will display residents’ memorabilia at City Hall throughout the bicen...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 19, 2023

City of Victoria Communications earns national honor for social media use

A woman holds a small trophy, flanked by two other people

PHOTO #1: The City of Victoria Communications & Public Affairs accepted a Savvy Award in the Social Media – Best Campaign Use category during the 3CMA conference Sept. 6-8 in Orlando, Fla. Shown from left are 3CMA Executive Director Scott Le...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 12, 2023

Victoria Fire Department to host EMT training course, Fire Academy

Firefighters load a stretcher into an ambulance

Residents will have a chance to earn their emergency medical technician certifications close to home as the Victoria Fire Department partners with the Magnolia Beach Volunteer Fire Department to host an EMT-B training course.

The program will be 8 a.m.-5 p...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 12, 2023

Keep Victoria Beautiful hosts citywide Fall Sweep

A woman with a megaphone addresses a crowd of people in safety vests

PHOTO #1: Keep Victoria Beautiful Executive Director Christy Youker addresses a group of volunteers before the Keep Victoria Beautiful Fall Sweep on Sept. 9. Photo contributed by Susan Armstrong Cain.

PHOTO #2: Volunteers picked up 275 bags of trash during...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 12, 2023

City seeks volunteers for Queen City neighborhood cleanup

People in safety vests gathered in a park. A registration booth stands in the corner of the block.

PHOTO #1: Volunteers gather in Queen City Park to prepare for a cleanup hosted by Keep Victoria Beautiful in March 2023 in the Queen City neighborhood.

PHOTO #2: Jodi Yancey-Sandoval with Teens Grounded leads a group of volunteers during a cleanup hosted b...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 12, 2023

Convention & Visitors Bureau honored for promoting local businesses

Two glass trophies, with a Yule Love Shopping shirt and Tacos and Margs tumbler and taco stress toy.

PHOTO: The City of Victoria Convention & Visitors Bureau earned two statewide awards for its “Yule Love Shopping!” and “Tacos & Margs!” promotions.

The City of Victoria Convention & Visitors Bureau earned...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 12, 2023

First responders, postal workers to play charity basketball game

Large group photo on a basketball court

PHOTO #1: Members of the City of Victoria basketball team and the U.S. Postal Service basketball team, along with cheerleaders from Victoria West High School and Vickers Elementary School, pose for a photo at the 2022 charity basketball game at Faith Fami...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 6, 2023

Victoria Fire Department unveils remodeled Station One

Officials hold up a piece of caution tape to cut with novelty scissors in front of a fire truck

PHOTO #1: The Victoria Fire Department, City Council, City Manager’s Office, Lauger Construction and BRW Architects participate in a ribbon-cutting Sept. 6 at the newly remodeled Victoria Fire Department Station One, 606 E. Goodwin Avenue.

PHOTO ...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 6, 2023

Morris Chiropractic earns City beautification award

Group photo with KVB sign in front of house lined with flowerbeds

Keep Victoria Beautiful board members and Morris Chiropractic staff and leadership pose for a photo Sept. 5 at Morris Chiropractic, 601 S. Main St. Morris Chiropractic received KVB’s beautification award for the month of September. The award is ...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 5, 2023

City of Victoria passes fiscal year 2024 budget

Logo with text reading Victoria Texas. 200 Years. Home of the Six Flags.

PHOTO: The fiscal year 2024 budget includes funding for Victoria’s bicentennial celebration.

The Victoria City Council at its Sept. 5 meeting passed the budget for fiscal year 2024, preparing the City to provide services and enhance livability du...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 5, 2023

Explore Victoria Texas launches ‘Victoria TX Arts Trail!’ to promote the arts

Crosswalk painted with musical notes

PHOTO #1: The “Victoria TX Arts Trail!” will invite residents to explore arts-related locations in Victoria, including public art installations such as the downtown crosswalk art by Free Art Victoria.

PHOTO #2: The “Victoria T...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 5, 2023

City to host car seat inspection event

Woman in fire department polo holing a clipboard speaks to an older woman carrying a small child

PHOTO: Fire Inspector/Investigator Maria Perez with the City of Victoria Fire Marshal’s Office advises a resident about proper car seat installation during a car seat inspection event hosted by the City of Victoria in 2022 at the Victoria Commun...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 5, 2023

Victoria Police Department receives $9,000 for SWAT equipment

Large group photo with most wearing police shirts or uniforms at Dickey's Barbecue Pit

PHOTO #1: Staff with the Victoria Police Department, City of Victoria Finance and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit pose for a photo Aug. 31 at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 9006 N. Navarro St. Suite C. The Victoria Police Department received a $9,000 gr...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 29, 2023

Victoria Public Library card holders can receive discounts during September

A library card and application form sit on a pile of books, an audiobook and a tablet.

PHOTO: A Victoria Public Library card can be used to check out books, audiobooks, electronic devices and many other materials.

The Victoria Public Library is partnering with area businesses that will offer discounts and giveaways to library card holders du...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 29, 2023

City seeks volunteer applicants for Victoria Public Library Advisory Board

In a crowded library, two women, one of them holding a baby, approach a table booth setup.

PHOTO #1: Residents learn about services offered by the Victoria Public Library and other local organizations during the library’s Summer Fun Fest Kickoff in June 2023.

PHOTO #2: Residents use a variety of materials to create art during the Victo...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 18, 2023

Victoria Police Department hosts walkout ceremony for sergeant’s retirement

A woman in police uniform speaks at a podium in front of the Police Department building

PHOTO #1: Sgt. Melissa Rendon-Wasicek speaks during an Aug. 16 walkout ceremony in honor of her retirement from the Victoria Police Department.

PHOTO #2: The Victoria Police Department hosted a walkout ceremony Aug. 16 in honor of Sgt. Melissa Rendon-Wasic...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 17, 2023

Victoria Police Department announces new deputy chief, wave of promotions

Uniformed policeman hands a badge to uniformed policewoman and shakes her hand

PHOTO #1: Victoria Police Department Deputy Chief Moya, right, accepts a badge from Chief Chuck Young in honor of her promotion to deputy chief during a ceremony Aug. 17 at the Victoria Community Center annex. 

The Victoria Police Department&r...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 15, 2023

Realtex announces The Victorian, an apartment complex for seniors

An apartment complex with multiple three-story buildings

PHOTO #1: Realtex Development Corporation is planning to build The Victorian at 901 John Stockbauer Drive.

PHOTO #2: The Victorian will be located at 901 John Stockbauer Drive.

Realtex Development Corporation is planning to build The Victorian, a 68-unit ap...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 15, 2023

UHV students complete summer internships with City of Victoria

Group photo of three people

PHOTO #1: Shown from left are City of Victoria Human Resources Director Cheryl Marthiljohni, University of Houston-Victoria intern Eunice Adu-Gyamfi and City of Victoria Training and Development Specialist Sarah Parsons.

PHOTO #2: Shown from left are City ...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 8, 2023

Victoria Police Department to kick off National Night Out

A uniformed policeman holding a snow cone and a woman in a police polo pose for a picture

PHOTO #1: From left, Victoria Police Department Officer John Turner and Public Safety Community Affairs Manager Lauren Meaux pose for a photo during the National Night Out Kick-Off Party in 2021.

PHOTO #2: Children play with a giant Connect Four set provid...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 3, 2023

City manager presents proposed budget, lower tax rate

Large, two-story building with police and fire logos and the words Public Safety Headquarters

PHOTO: The proposed budget for fiscal year 2024 includes $97.6 million for capital improvement projects, such as the new public safety headquarters.

The City of Victoria is planning to commit more resources to streets, public safety and other important ser...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 1, 2023

Applications open for Mayor’s Youth Council

Mayor Jeff Bauknight and a group of teens holding canned food pose in front of a food bank backdrop

PHOTO: Members of the Mayor’s Youth Council pose for a photo with donated food items that they brought to the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent on Feb. 28. The students collected 45 pounds of food through food drives at local schools. After deliv...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 1, 2023

Municipal Court administrator earns national certification

Group photo of 5 people in front of the Supreme Court building

PHOTO #1: City of Victoria Municipal Court Administrator Tiffany Totah was certified as an Institute for Court Management fellow during a ceremony at the United States Supreme Court. Shown from left are program graduates Jason Dudish-Poulsen, Totah, Krist...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 26, 2023

City enters Stage 3 of drought contingency plan

A river bank with low water and weeds growing up through the bank

PHOTO: The Guadalupe River is unusually low for this time of year, which limits the City’s ability to pump water.

Residents must take additional steps to conserve water as the City enters Stage III of its drought contingency plan.

High atmospheric...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 25, 2023

City to allocate funding for child safety programs

Happy children

Local nonprofits that serve children are invited to apply for the City’s grant-to-partnership program that allocates funding for child safety initiatives.

About the program

Funding for the program comes from the $1.50 child safety fee that is asse...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 25, 2023

City of Victoria launches in-house street sweeping with 2 new sweepers

A street sweeper with the City of Victoria Public Works logo

PHOTO #1: The City of Victoria has purchased two street sweepers for a new in-house sweeping program.

The City of Victoria has purchased two street sweepers for a new in-house sweeping program that will allow streets to be swept more often for a lower pric...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 25, 2023

Victoria Public Library receives grant for on-site material pickup lockers

A large metal locker structure with many individual lockers and a touchscreen

PHOTO #1: The Victoria Public Library has received a grant to add on-site lockers where residents will be able to pick up and drop off materials. The lockers will be customized with the library’s logo, the City of Victoria logo and acknowledgement of the ...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Civilian Responder Program trains residents to save lives

Two people rappel down the side of a metal building

PHOTO #1: Residents will be able to rappel down the side of a building during the Civilian Responder Program hosted by the Victoria Fire Department. This photo was taken during the 2021 program.

PHOTO #2: Residents will be able to use the Jaws of Life to c...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Victoria Fire Department meets gold standard for heart attack treatment

Two pieces of electronic equipment with display monitors. One is connected to small white EKG pads.

PHOTO: A cardiac monitor and electrocardiogram (EKG) defibrillator are displayed at Victoria Fire Department Station Two, 2708 Miori Lane. This equipment is used by firefighter/EMTs to provide first aid to patients with heart attack symptoms.

The City of V...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Victoria earns statewide award for beautification initiatives, outreach

A boy in a red shirt runs to put trash in a bin. Other children in red shirts wait in lines.

PHOTO #1: The City of Victoria Environmental Services hosted a “recycle relay” in partnership with Nazareth Academy in January 2023. Participants raced to put recyclables and trash in the correct bins.

PHOTO #2: Community organizations ...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Court operations supervisor named Certified Municipal Court Clerk

Maria Bell

City of Victoria Municipal Court Operations Supervisor Maria Bell has earned the title of Certified Municipal Court Clerk from the Texas Court Clerks Association (TCCA) in conjunction with the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center (TMCEC), the Texas Mun...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 18, 2023

Municipal Court clerk named Certified Court Clerk II

David Baker

City of Victoria Municipal Court clerk David Baker has earned the title of Certified Court Clerk II from the Texas Court Clerks Association (TCCA) in conjunction with the Texas Municipal Courts Education Center (TMCEC), the Texas Municipal Courts Associat...

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News Releases
Posted on: July 5, 2023

Explore Victoria Texas hosts birding-themed search in Riverside Park

A metal cutout of a bluejay is mounted on a tree near a walking trail

PHOTO: Ten markers representing local bird species have been placed along the walking path in Riverside Park.

More than 200 species of native and migratory birds can be spotted in Victoria, but this summer, Explore Victoria Texas is inviting residents to k...

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News Releases
Posted on: June 27, 2023

City to begin De Leon Plaza expansion

A large permanent stage at DeLeon Plaza near the O'Connor building. People watch and mill around.

PHOTO #1: As part of the De Leon Plaza expansion project, the grassy seating area on the north side of the plaza will be gently sloped to meet the new paved performance area. The water feature and restroom awning shown in this conceptual rendering are not...

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News Releases
Posted on: June 27, 2023

City, AEP begin 2nd phase of citywide lighting project

Two cherry-picker style trucks lift technicians to a streetlight mounted on a power pole

PHOTO #1: From top left, AEP service technician Albert Rodriguez and street light technician John Velasquez switch out HPS lights at Pine Street Park with new LED lights on Nov. 17, 2022. From bottom left, service technician Garret Easley and service crew...

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News Releases
Posted on: June 27, 2023

Victoria Public Library expands patrons’ digital access with CloudLibrary

Images of phones with screens from CloudLibrary. Text: CloudLibrary, a stunning app for avid readers

PHOTO: Victoria County residents can download the CloudLibrary app to access ebooks and audiobooks from a network of 64 Texas libraries. Image contributed by CloudLibrary.

Victoria County residents can now access more than 237,000 ebooks and audiobooks fro...

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News Releases
Posted on: June 21, 2023

Community Center splash pad reopens

At a splash pad, a large bucket shaped like a baseball pours water on a group of kids

PHOTO #1: Kids play at the Community Center splash pad in 2016.

The Community Center splash pad, 211 N. Ben Wilson St., is open once again, and Victoria’s youngest residents are invited to come splash around in the fountains and get doused by the...

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News Releases
Posted on: May 30, 2023

City seeks volunteer applicants for Parks & Recreation Commission

Woman seated at council dais

PHOTO #1: Parks & Recreation Commissioner Ashley Magee comments on the Riverside Park boating access project during a March 13 meeting at the City Council chambers.

PHOTO #2: Parks & Recreation Commission Chair W. Lee Keeling speaks during a ground...

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News Releases
Posted on: April 25, 2023

City unveils logo for bicentennial celebration

Logo. Text reads Victoria Texas. 200 years. 1824. 2024. Home of the six flags.

The City of Victoria today unveiled its bicentennial logo, which will be used to tie together events and initiatives in honor of Victoria’s 200th birthday next year.

The logo, which was developed by City staff with input from the City Council, fe...

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News Releases
Posted on: April 6, 2023

City to use smoke testing to check for sewer system defects

White smoke rises from a sidewalk

PHOTO #1: Harmless smoke will pass through the City’s sanitary sewer system as RJN Group begins testing for defects in the system. Photo provided by RJN Group.

The City of Victoria has hired RJN Group to use smoke to test for defects in the City&...

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News Releases
Posted on: March 28, 2023

City plans mural for Laurent Street underpass

Mural featuring a guitar, accordion, Mexican marigolds and a mariachi silhouette

PHOTO #1: This concept rendering from UP Art Studio shows a proposed design for the Laurent Street underpass mural.

PHOTO #2: This concept rendering from UP Art Studio shows a proposed design for the Laurent Street underpass mural.

PHOTO #3: This concept re...

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News Releases
Posted on: September 12, 2022

City breaks ground on duck pond

A conceptual rendering of the new Riverside Park duck pond. What was once two ponds is now one.

PHOTO #1: This conceptual rendering shows the new design for the Riverside Park duck pond.

PHOTO #2: The City of Victoria hosted a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Riverside Park duck pond construction Sept. 12. Shown from left are City Manager Jes&ua...

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News Releases
Posted on: August 16, 2022

Developer announces new apartment complex for seniors

An outside view of the FishPond Apartments in Victoria

(Updated 8/9/2023 to include a current illustration of the apartment)

PHOTO #1: This illustration provided by FishPond Development LLC shows FishPond at Victoria, a new apartment complex for seniors.

PHOTO #2: This map shows the future location of FishPond ...

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News Releases