![Sealy Awards Contract for New Splashpad, Marking a Fresh Start for Jacqueline A. Cryan Memorial Park [VIDEO]](https://i3.wp.com/austincountynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Jacqueline-A.-Cryan-Memorial-Park-Pool-in-Sealy.jpg?w=627&resize=627,376&ssl=1 "Sealy Awards Contract for New Splashpad, Marking a Fresh Start for Jacqueline A. Cryan Memorial Park [VIDEO]")
The Sealy City Council has awarded a $444,083 contract to Adventure Playground Systems to replace the Jacqueline A. Cryan Memorial Park Pool with a new splashpad, set to open in spring 2025.
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Austin County has issued a burn ban starting September 23, 2024, due to severe drought conditions, prohibiting outdoor burning and activities involving combustible materials. Exceptions include controlled outdoor cooking and certain welding activities under strict safety guidelines. Violations of the ban are subject to a fine of up to $500.
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Results of the local 2024 county elections in Austin County, Texas.
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Sealy Police make an arrest in connection with the January 2024 robbery of the Big 99 Cents & Gift Store.
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Bellville edged out Sealy with a thrilling 35-28 overtime victory. The Brahmas’ defense shined with key interceptions, including a pick-six by A. Hutchinson, while Dd Murray led the offense with 115 rushing yards and a touchdown. With this win, Bellville has positioned itself as a top contender early in district competition.
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A high-speed pursuit on the morning of September 22, 2024, initiated by Sealy PD, ended with a crash involving a Bellville Police officer just south of Bellville. The suspect, believed to have intentionally struck the patrol car, was airlifted to a hospital, while the Bellville officer sustained minor injuries and was treated locally. The incident is still under investigation, with charges pending against the suspect.
Read More![Sealy City Council Debates PTO Policy Changes Amid Concerns Over $594K Liability and New Accounting Standards [VIDEO]](https://i2.wp.com/austincountynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Sealy-Page-Banner.jpg?w=627&resize=627,376&ssl=1 "Sealy City Council Debates PTO Policy Changes Amid Concerns Over $594K Liability and New Accounting Standards [VIDEO]")
The Sealy City Council is considering changes to its Paid Time Off (PTO) policy in response to nearly $700,000 in liabilities from accumulated employee leave. New governmental accounting rules under GASB Statement No. 101 require Sealy to recognize these liabilities on its financial statements, prompting discussions on capping leave accruals and mandating time off usage. For the public, the implications of these changes are significant. Taxpayers expect the city to be financially responsible, but at the same time, there is concern about how these policy changes might affect the morale and retention of city employees.
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The Sealy Tigers dominated the Navasota Rattlers with a commanding 70-33 victory, showcasing their explosive offense and opportunistic defense. With standout performances from both sides of the ball, Sealy set the tone early and never looked back. The Tigers will look to carry this momentum into their next game against C.H. Yoe on September 6 in Cameron, Texas.
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Austin County and surrounding area teams battled it out on Friday night in Week 1 of the 2024 Texas Football Season. Here are the scores of the area schools that we follow.
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The Sealy City Council recently deliberated on the significant insurance and financial challenges threatening the continuation of the beloved annual Fantasy of Lights festival. Faced with stringent insurance requirements for vendors and substantial costs to the city, council members explored various solutions to preserve this cherished community tradition. Despite the hurdles, the council remains committed to finding a way forward, ensuring that the festival can proceed and continue to bring joy to the Sealy community.
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On Monday, July 8, 2024, Austin County can expect increasing wind speeds from 14 mph to 32 mph and significant rainfall totaling around 2.55 inches by 3 PM. Wind gusts will peak at 77 mph around 4 PM, and the wind direction will shift from northerly to southwesterly throughout the day. By Tuesday, July 9, wind speeds will decrease to 12 mph by midnight, with additional rainfall accumulation expected.
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The Sealy City Council has approved the first phase of the Medrano Project, aimed at revitalizing a key area of the city with business infrastructure enhancements.
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Sealy’s latest city council meeting focused on addressing audit findings for the fiscal year ending 2023, where despite receiving an unmodified opinion indicating overall financial accuracy, nine deficiencies were identified needing immediate attention. The council has implemented detailed plans, including improved journal entry oversight, standardized records management, and enhanced protocols for contract and capital asset management, aimed at ensuring future financial transparency and compliance. These measures are intended to strengthen Sealy’s financial practices and mitigate risks identified during the audit process.
Read More![Sealy Faces Police Shortage: Chief of Police Addresses City Council [VIDEO]](https://i2.wp.com/austincountynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Sealy-Police-Department.jpg?w=627&resize=627,376&ssl=1)
The Sealy City Council recently addressed a critical shortage within the police department, highlighted by Chief Jay Reeves’ report on significant officer losses due to recruitment challenges and financial constraints. Despite efforts to retain personnel through emergency retention payments, Sealy struggles to compete with larger agencies, risking a force primarily composed of inexperienced officers. The situation underscores broader issues faced by small-town police forces nationwide, grappling with limited resources and competition from urban departments offering more attractive benefits and salaries.
Read More![Sealy EDC Presents Strategic Plan Updates at City Council Meeting [VIDEO]](https://i0.wp.com/austincountynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Sealy-EDC-Logo-Featured-Image.png?w=627&resize=627,376&ssl=1){kind=logo}
Sealy Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Director Bill Atkins presented comprehensive updates to the Sealy City Council, highlighting major projects including downtown parking expansions and Cryan Memorial Park improvements. The EDC’s initiatives aim to bolster local infrastructure, support small businesses through resourceful meetups, and enhance community amenities with beautification projects. These efforts underscore Sealy’s commitment to economic growth and community enhancement.
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