Lubbock · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lubbock public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Lubbock City Charter Review and Amendments
Council will discuss whether to review or amend the Lubbock City Charter, the city's foundational governing document. Any changes could reshape how city government operates.
2022 and 2024 Street Bond Right-of-Way Acquisitions
Several land purchase agreements will advance the 2022 and 2024 street bond projects, including tracts at Upland Avenue/114th Street, Avenue P/146th Street, and 114th/University. These acquisitions are needed to widen and rebuild streets voters funded.
Alley Paving Petition Process
The council will consider a new ordinance creating a way for property owners to petition the city to pave unimproved alleys — with the abutting owners paying the cost. If adopted, neighborhoods with dirt alleys would have a formal path to get them paved.
General Municipal Operations and Services
Residents and council members will chat about how things are running in Lubbock, from fixing streets and managing water utilities to keeping neighborhoods safe and growing the local economy.
Highland Oaks Public Improvement District Bond Issuance & Infrastructure
The council will consider issuing special assessment revenue bonds and approving water distribution contracts to support development in the Highland Oaks Public Improvement District.
Electric Utility Board Participation
The City Council will join the Electric Utility Board to discuss and potentially take action on matters related to the city's electric utility.
2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Development
Lubbock reviewed changes to local road classifications requested by state consultants to ensure streets remain eligible for federal transportation dollars. While consultants proposed sweeping adjustments, local staff and the TAC pushed back on misclassified segments to protect future projects.
Loop 88 and US 84 Corridor Funding Amendments
The committee initiated public review for financial adjustments to major Loop 88 and US 84 corridor projects, incorporating $40 million in category-one state funding. These changes keep ongoing regional highway expansions financially aligned and moving forward.
Roadway Functional Classifications and Federal Funding Eligibility
Lubbock reviewed changes to local road classifications requested by state consultants to ensure streets remain eligible for federal transportation dollars. While consultants proposed sweeping adjustments, local staff and the TAC pushed back on misclassified segments to protect future projects.
Ty Cooke Gas Generating Facility Sale
The council voted 4-3 against giving Adakon Energy a 45-day extension to close on purchasing the Ty Cooke power plant, holding them to the October 21 deadline.
Adaptive Reuse of Vacant School Property (Jackson Elementary)
A nonprofit wants to transform an abandoned school into a community center offering GED classes and youth sports, dividing neighborhood residents over future commercial risks.
Seals Commercial Speculative Distribution Facility
Approved a LEDA economic development grant for a $40 million cross-dock industrial facility on South Loop 289 to boost local distribution and manufacturing capacity.
Office Space and IT Infrastructure Costs
With the agency's current lease at the county building expiring in September, the MPO is taking steps to negotiate lease extensions or explore other office and IT options.
Water Line Leak and Boil Water Notice
Heads up if you head out to Lorenzo: they had a major water line leak that forced a temporary shutoff, meaning anyone in that area is currently stuck under a boil water notice.
Board Appointment Diversity Discussion
The city council appointed and reappointed community volunteers to fill crucial advisory roles on dozens of local boards, commissions, and committees.
North Lubbock Residential Development Costs
Lubbock is looking at changing the fees developers pay when they build new stuff. This could mean your rent or mortgage might go up, but it could also mean better city services for everyone.
Regional Freight Mobility
Get ready for more road work, Lubbock! The construction on FM 41 at the US 87 bridge is back on and expected to finish by the end of 2027. This project aims to improve safety and traffic flow in the area.
Broadway Street Project Groundbreaking
Lubbock kicked off construction on the Broadway Project at Avenue M, funded by voter-approved 2024 street bonds. The project aims to upgrade downtown infrastructure and revitalize the corridor.
Industrial Dust and Pollution
Residents in North and East Lubbock are struggling with heavy dust and pollution from nearby industrial sites, which they claim are operating without proper permits.
District 4 Council Representation
The city officially certified the August 1 runoff election results, installing Tim Green as the new District 4 council representative following Brayden Rose's departure.
City Financial Report Accepted
The council accepted the city's comprehensive financial report for the past fiscal year, indicating adherence to financial reporting standards.
Public Transit Expansion
Lubbock’s Citibus is finally kicking off its five-year expansion plan with a new route and some much-needed tweaks to existing ones. It’s worth a quick look at the new maps to see if your daily commute just got a whole lot faster.
District 4 City Council Runoff
Get ready to vote! Dr. Jennifer Wilson is up for re-election on the Lubbock City Council. This race will decide who's calling the shots for our city.
Special Election
Lubbock voters in City Council District 4, get ready! A special election is on the horizon to choose your next representative. Make sure you're registered and ready to cast your ballot.
District 4 City Council Runoff Election
Lubbock voters in District 4 will head back to the polls for a runoff election on August 1 after no candidate won a majority in the June 27 special election. Tim Green and Gary Boren finished with the most votes and will compete in the runoff.
City Website Redesign
The city is launching a brand-new website on April 22 to improve mobile usability, search functions, and translation options while meeting strict federal ADA accessibility rules ahead of the April 24 deadline.
Public Safety Radio System Upgrade
The city is issuing $14.9 million in short-term tax notes to fund high-cost purchases like fire trucks, street maintenance graders, and a major public safety radio system upgrade.
Federal Grant Application Authority for Major Infrastructure
The MPO gave staff the authority to jump on surprise federal grants, like a massive $150 million INFRA grant for Loop 88, without waiting for the next committee meeting. This helps the agency move fast when federal funding windows open abruptly.
Road Opening
Great news, Lubbock! A part of Loop 88 is now open, and the city is celebrating the expected boost in traffic flow. Get ready for an easier drive!
Public Pool Closures and Bond Proposal
Lubbock is keeping all public pools closed for the 2026 season, leaving families without a place to cool off. A new 'Quality of Life Bond' is being proposed to fix the issue, but it’s sparking a heated debate over how your tax money should be spent.
Civic Center and Expo Center future
Big decisions are coming for Lubbock's Civic Center and Expo Center. What happens next could change the events and spaces we all use, so pay attention!
City Council Election Candidates
Get ready, Lubbock! The May 2026 city council elections are coming up, and some familiar and new faces are already campaigning to represent you. It's time to start thinking about who you want making the big decisions for our city.
Council Member Resignation
Big news for Lubbock's District 4! Council member Brayden Rose is out, so we'll be getting a new voice on the city council soon. Get ready for a new election or appointment to fill this spot.
Substance Use Disorder Services Funding
The council approved a grant to support substance use disorder services, aiming to provide crucial resources for individuals struggling with addiction.
Election Filing Period
Thinking about running for city council or school board in Lubbock? The filing period for the May 2026 elections is officially open. Get your applications in soon if you want to throw your hat in the ring!
Zoning Request
A massive data center planned for northeast Lubbock is on hold after its zoning request was withdrawn. This could mean big changes for the area, but for now, the future of the project is uncertain.
Housing Bond Approval
Renters in Lubbock, rejoice! The city just approved a $22 million bond to improve apartment complexes. This could mean nicer, safer places to live for many residents.
Municipal Election Candidates
Get ready to vote, Lubbock! The official list of candidates for the May 2nd City Council election is here. It's time to check out who's running and decide who you want representing you.
Dangerous Dog Ordinance
Lubbock's city council just passed new rules for dangerous dogs. If you own a dog that's been deemed dangerous, get ready for some changes in how you'll need to manage your pet.
Animal Shelter Ordinances
Lubbock's animal shelters might be getting a makeover with new city rules on the horizon. These changes could shake up how shelters run and impact how easy (or hard) it is to adopt your next furry friend.
Alarm System Fee Repeal
Tired of paying an extra fee for your home alarm system? Well, good news! The Lubbock City Council has officially scrapped that ordinance, meaning you won't have to worry about that charge anymore.
Ordinance Change
Did you accidentally call 911? The city council is admitting they messed up their old ordinance and are changing how you'll be fined for those false alarms. Get ready for some new rules!
Alarm System Ordinance
Good news for Lubbock residents! The city council has scrapped the proposed alarm system ordinance. This means you won't have to deal with any new regulations or potential fees related to your home security system.
Animal Control Policy
Lubbock's City Council is wrestling with how to deal with dangerous dogs. They're debating new policies, so expect some back-and-forth before any decisions are made.
Alarm System Permits
Got an alarm system in Lubbock? You'll need to get a permit for it now. The city's changed the rules, so make sure you're registered to avoid getting fined.
Recall Election
Get ready for a potential shake-up at City Hall! A recall election is brewing against a Lubbock councilman, and the folks pushing for it are feeling confident they can win over voters.