El Paso Local Pulse

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Thursday, August 14.

We are waking up to sunny skies but can still see traces of yesterday’s wild weather. Last night, West El Paso, especially areas along Mesa Street, saw some of the heaviest flooding in months. More than a dozen cars were stranded after a flash downpour, and emergency crews along with neighbors stepped up to help push vehicles and clear debris. Firefighters and good Samaritans made sure everyone and even their pets got out safely. Thankfully, the waters have started to recede, and by sunrise, most major roadways are open again. For today, we are expecting partly cloudy conditions with a high near 97 degrees, and only a slight chance of afternoon showers. Remember to stay hydrated and check in on those who may still be cleaning up from the flood.

Turning to city hall, the El Paso Board of Adjustment is revisiting a controversial special exception request for a property on Prestwick Road. Residents in the area have voiced concerns, so the board’s decision could affect property values and neighborhood traffic. Meanwhile, there are calls from residents and city officials for long-term drainage solutions after last night’s flooding disrupted Westside commutes once more.

Jobs and education are in focus this week. The El Paso Chamber is hosting its State of Education and Workforce Summit today at the Hotel Paso del Norte. Business, education, and community leaders will be tackling ideas to grow job opportunities locally, address teacher shortages, and discuss how the expanded school property tax exemptions could ease the tax burden for about 40 percent of homeowners this year.

In real estate, local agents report stable home prices, with the median El Paso sale sticking close to 235 thousand dollars. There is still strong demand, but last night’s floods serve as a reminder to check flood zone maps before buying. On the business front, the city welcomed two new restaurants this week along Yarbrough and on the Lower Valley side. But the ongoing AC outage at Casa Barranca Apartments remains unresolved, leaving dozens of families struggling with the heat. Management says repairs are in progress, but residents are asking the city to step in if needed.

Our weekend is shaping up to be lively. The UTEP Miners women’s soccer team kicks off the season with their opener on Friday night at University Field. Downtown, the El Paso Museum of History debuts its new Military Women of Paso del Norte exhibit this Saturday, honoring the service of women from our region. For outdoor lovers, the next Live Active El Paso Hike-A-Thon is set for Palisades Canyon Loop at 7:30 Saturday morning. Remember, if you complete four hikes, there are prizes waiting for you.

Safety-wise, El Paso police report a mostly quiet night, aside from the flooding incidents and a car parts theft in Canutillo totaling about 14 thousand dollars in losses. Officers also confirmed the arrest of a local fugitive in Tulsa wanted on smu

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Sunday, August tenth, and we’re here to bring you the latest from around our city as we wake up to a warm, partly cloudy morning. It’s already 88 degrees out, heading for a high of 104, so let’s be sure we stay hydrated and keep an eye on friends and family who might be out in the sun. We could see a little breeze later, but no substantial relief from the heat just yet, with the forecast pointing to continued hot conditions over the next couple of days.

We begin today with an update from city hall that will have a real impact on our daily lives. El Paso District Attorney James Montoya has just been granted an exemption from the county’s sixteen-week hiring delay. This means his office can hire staff immediately to help tackle a backlog of thousands of criminal cases—a move Montoya says is crucial for keeping trials moving forward and our justice system working. While the DA’s office gets this green light, other departments, such as the Sheriff’s Office, still face operational shifts due to the hiring freeze as county leaders try to keep the budget on track.

Turning to the roads, traffic is already being impacted by incidents this weekend. Yesterday afternoon, a vehicle crashed into a tree in front of the Popeyes at Sanders and Dyer, closing the intersection in Northeast El Paso and sending one person to the hospital. Farther east, a tragic head-on collision claimed two lives, leaving another seriously injured, reminding us to drive carefully, especially as we head into another busy weekend.

On the public safety front, El Paso police are also investigating a wild street fight that spilled over from a school, where one man reportedly rammed another with his car. Meanwhile, a woman was taken into custody after a spree involving an SUV theft and multiple hit-and-runs across the county, and Crime Stoppers has just updated their list of most wanted fugitives for this week. If you see suspicious activity, remember to reach out.

In community interest, last night the Star on the Mountain glowed in honor of LTC Kimbia Rey’s birthday and recent milestones for several local families. Tonight, it will again shine in honor of loved ones as part of ongoing tributes that keep our city’s heart beating strong.

There’s a lot happening in the job market and real estate, even during these uncertain economic times. As back-to-school shopping ramps up, we’re hearing that folks expect to save a little less during this year’s tax-free weekend, reflecting the current pinch many families are feeling. Despite that, new business openings around Mesa Street and a rumored cafe revival downtown point to steady optimism.

On the sports front, last night at Southwest University Park, our own El Paso Chihuahuas fell to the Oklahoma City Comets 11 to 3, though the series isn’t over yet, with another game today at 1:05. Local high school football teams are deep in preseason training, and UTEP alum Will Hernandez has re-signed with t

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Saturday, August ninth, twenty twenty-five. We wake up today under another heat advisory. The city is reminding us to stay hydrated and cool, with temperatures set to flirt with the hundred-and-five mark before sunset. Expect extra sun and little relief from the breeze, so try to get errands done early or seek out some indoor fun.

In breaking news, there has been a heated discussion at city hall regarding oversight and transparency. After the retirement of longtime Chief Internal Auditor Edmundo Calderon, the city council has decided not to appoint an interim chief auditor for now. City Manager Dionne Mack will step in for administrative duties, while the audit committee keeps tabs on financial reviews. This means there will be no immediate outside hire to replace Calderon, who spent two decades watching over city finances. The search for his permanent replacement is still taking shape.

Turning to county government, there's rising concern over the new migrant detention facility at Fort Bliss. County Commissioner Jackie Butler is urging more transparency about hiring, operations, and community impacts as construction wraps up. The facility is set to open with space for a thousand beds but could swell to five thousand. A formal county resolution calling for public oversight will be discussed on Monday, and several advocacy groups are watching this closely.

In public safety, El Paso Police continue to investigate Thursday evening’s disturbing street fight that ended with a vehicle ramming outside Ramona Elementary on Nichols Road and North Loop. After an argument between several men escalated, one man reportedly got into his car and drove circles around others before crashing into one, also damaging a steel fence. No arrests have been made as of this morning, but authorities are reviewing footage and witness accounts. Separately, Crime Stoppers of El Paso has released its 'Most Wanted' list for the week, asking anyone with tips on local fugitives to call their hotline or submit information online. Community vigilance is playing a big part in keeping our neighborhoods safe.

On a lighter note, some new business energy is coming to town today. Battle Batting Cages opens its doors on North Mesa, offering high-tech baseball fun, training spaces, and family-friendly games. If you’re looking for something active away from the sun, the grand opening runs from eleven to two. There’s a ribbon cutting, local dignitaries, and plenty of music and food.

For the job market, while El Paso’s unemployment holds steady at five percent, new job postings in logistics, healthcare, and hospitality have ticked up slightly. Several employers along Gateway East are holding on-site interviews next week, so it’s a good time to update those resumes.

Turning to real estate, the median home price in El Paso is now around three hundred twenty thousand dollars, up a bit from last month. Inventory is still tight, but there’s an inc

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Saturday, August 9, 2025.

We begin our day with a major development coming out of City Hall. The City of El Paso is heading into critical hearings over the ongoing El Paso Electric rate case that could affect what we pay for power. The hearing runs through August 15 and city leaders are pushing hard on behalf of residents, aiming for a fair decision. Over at the El Paso Community College, good news for faculty and staff as the board just approved a three percent pay raise starting September 1. Meanwhile, City Council is in transition after longtime Chief Internal Auditor Edmundo Calderon’s retirement on August 1. No interim chief auditor will be appointed for now, so City Manager Dionne Mack will fill some of those oversight roles as a permanent replacement is considered.

Turning to the weather, we remain under a heat advisory until 9 tonight. It is another scorcher across the El Paso metro, so let us remember to stay extra hydrated, avoid strenuous activity outdoors during peak midday heat, and keep an eye on neighbors and pets. This evening should cool off slightly but plan your community outings early or much later in the day.

In breaking news this week, all eyes are on Fort Bliss where a county commissioner has raised alarms about the billion-dollar migrant detention center now under construction. The facility, now called Camp East Montana, opens soon with space for up to one thousand detainees and room to grow to five thousand. The call from county leaders is for more transparency on operations, staffing, and conditions, with formal demands heading to the Commissioners Court meeting this coming Monday.

Moving to crime and safety, El Paso Police report a 41-year-old man was arrested after being caught stealing a Circle K cashier’s wallet and using stolen credit cards around the city. Authorities worked quickly to recover the cards and the suspect is now in custody. There are no reports of violent incidents overnight, but as always, we encourage listeners to send tips if you spot suspicious activity, and a reminder that Crime Stoppers posts the city’s most wanted for this week online.

In local sports, we are gearing up for UTEP Football Fan Day at the Sun Bowl from 1 to 2:30 this afternoon. This is a free event where we can meet our 2025 Miners, grab autographs, and let the kids play games on the field. Season ticket holders get a shot at exclusive Sun City hats. Soccer fans, the El Paso Locomotive FC rides a wave of momentum after a record 6-0 win last week. They are away at Miami FC today at 5 p.m. Our players, including Eric Calvillo and Amando Moreno, are grabbing national attention with their recent performances. In local schools, Northwest Early College High continues to shine, and several El Paso student-athletes just landed top state honors for academic achievements and summer sports.

The job market remains tight but positive, with more than five hundred new positions listed this week

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Friday, August 8, 2025.

Let’s start with our weather, since it is a big part of life this week. We remain under a heat advisory, with temperatures expected well into the triple digits. The warning stays in effect until 9 p.m. Saturday, so we all need to be careful, stay inside when possible, and keep extra water on hand. Outdoor activities and weekend events will feel the heat, so organizers are encouraging shade, breaks, and checking on neighbors who might need help.

Now to city developments. El Paso just announced the second phase of a six-point-three million dollar street improvement for Rojas Drive. Construction will start summer of 2026, but this is something many in the eastside neighborhoods have been waiting for—new signs, upgraded sidewalks, ramps, and better curb access, especially near Lomaland, Lee Trevino, Goodyear, and Pendale. The city says design work will wrap up by the end of this year, followed by the procurement process in early 2026.

On the energy front, there is pushback from residents about a proposed ninety-three million dollar El Paso Electric rate hike. Public comment periods are heating up—literally and figuratively—as families worry about higher bills during this stretch of high summer use.

On the jobs and real estate side, hiring remains steady in health care and at logistics hubs around the airport. Local real estate agents report steady demand in family neighborhoods like Eastwood and Montwood, though some buyers are hesitating, waiting to see how interest rates settle.

Turning to arts and culture, the city is buzzing with events for all interests. The El Paso Chihuahuas face Oklahoma City tonight at Southwest University Park starting at 6:30. If baseball is not your thing, check out Roulette Recitations, a unique open mic at Joe Vinny and Bronsons on North Piedras, where acts are chosen by chance. For art lovers, a mural tour along Main Street in San Elizario happens at 3 p.m., but you’ll need to register today to join. Fans of cult films will be excited to hear that director Kevin Smith is a special guest at this year’s El Paso Film Festival.

For music and festival fans, Brewdoso 2025 is on Saturday at Wingfield Park in Ruidoso from eleven to seven, a great spot for local brews and live performances. And for something a little different, Speed Dating on the Streetcar rolls out from International Bar downtown at 5:30.

In education, Ysleta ISD celebrated two robotics teams who just placed in state finals, and Franklin High’s girls soccer team clinched another district win last night.

Sports fans will want to mark their calendars—the Chihuahuas face Oklahoma City again on Sunday at 12:05.

Public safety is always a priority. In the last 24 hours, El Paso Police responded to a burglary on Dyer near Fort Bliss. Quick investigation led to an arrest without injury. No other serious incidents were reported overnight, but officers remind everyone to lock up cars and ho

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for August seventh, twenty twenty-five. We start today with breaking news that’s shaken our Chihuahuita neighborhood. According to El Paso police, a man was stabbed late Tuesday night on East Ninth Street just blocks from the Paso Del Norte Bridge. Officials say an altercation led to Oscar Octavio Ortiz being arrested and charged with the murder of Rigoberto Cortes, age forty-six. Ortiz reportedly crossed into Mexico following the incident, but police apprehended him when he returned at the Paso Del Norte Port of Entry. Officers emphasize this appears to be an isolated incident, with no ongoing threat to neighbors. Anyone with more information is encouraged to contact the department.

Turning to city hall, El Paso County is proposing a higher property tax rate nearing forty-eight cents per one hundred dollars of value—the highest it can set without a public vote. At Monday’s commissioners’ meeting, officials explained this rate is needed to support vital services like law enforcement, courts, and infrastructure. Many El Paso homeowners are feeling the pinch as appraised values climb, and the county reminds us that those values are set by the Central Appraisal District, not county officials. On a hopeful note for some residents, the city council has approved an increase in the homestead exemption for seniors and disabled homeowners.

If you feel like your power bill has inched up, keep an eye on the El Paso Electric rate case. The city is heading into key hearings this week that could decide whether the utility’s rate hike request moves forward. City leaders are pledging to push back to keep rates affordable while balancing the need to modernize our grid.

Real estate has been heating up—median home prices in El Paso recently crossed two hundred sixty thousand dollars, and with new tax rates on the horizon, analysts expect sales to remain brisk through the summer. On the jobs front, the metro area’s unemployment rate ticked up slightly but remains lower than the national average, buoyed by steady hiring in healthcare and logistics.

It’s another scorcher across the Sun City. A heat advisory is extended through nine tonight, with temperatures expected to reach one hundred five degrees. We urge everyone to stay hydrated, limit outdoor time, and remember that heat safety is especially important for seniors and those without reliable air conditioning. Nights will remain warm, hovering in the mid to upper seventies, and unfortunately, no significant rainfall is in sight.

Let’s talk culture and fun for the week ahead. La Nube STEAM Discovery Center is celebrating its one-year anniversary this Saturday with a free community day downtown on Main Drive—expect interactive exhibits and surprise performances. At the International Museum of Art on Montana Avenue, the El Paso del Norte Proud Community Showcase kicks off Saturday afternoon, shining a spotlight on the creative spirit of our region. If you prefer music un

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Sunday, August third. Today marks a solemn anniversary in our city as we remember the tragic mass shooting at the Cielo Vista Walmart six years ago. The City of El Paso, along with community partners and local families, is holding events throughout the day to honor the twenty-three lives lost and the many more forever changed. At nine thirty this morning, a Remembrance Ceremony happens at Crouch Park, just off W.H. Burges Drive, followed by a peaceful sound bath session at Ascarate Park Pavilion at ten thirty. From eleven to three, the new Mexican American Cultural Center is hosting Holding Space for Collective Healing, with art, yoga, and live music to support our continued journey forward. This evening at six thirty, the Healing Garden near the County Coliseum will hold a Day of Remembrance with readings and music. The Star on the Mountain will glow orange and flash twenty-three times at eight thirty as a symbol of unity and gun violence awareness. We encourage everyone to light their homes in orange for support, and for those seeking connection, the new digital memorial at the Museum of History on Santa Fe Street offers an interactive way to remember the victims and their stories.

The weather today is classic El Paso summer: we expect plenty of sunshine, hot temperatures pushing close to one hundred, and an air quality alert from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, with elevated ozone and particulates in the air. It is a day to keep water handy and limit outdoor activities, especially for our older neighbors and anyone with respiratory conditions. The National Weather Service notes a chance for storms late in the afternoon that may bring quick downpours, so if you plan to be out for events or errands, keep an eye on the skies and those afternoon pop-ups.

At City Hall, big conversations are underway about infrastructure improvements and the city's push to modernize street lighting in several neighborhoods, including stretches along Mesa and Yarbrough. City Manager Dionne Mack recently shared in the CBA luncheon that growth priorities will focus on street repairs and cleaner public transit options, which could mean more jobs coming soon, especially in maintenance and city services.

On the job front, the local unemployment rate is holding steady near five percent, and there are over fifteen hundred openings posted across the city right now, with health care, logistics, and construction topping the list. If you or someone you know is looking, check the city's career page and local employers like the hospitals or school district.

Real estate remains steady, with the median home price settling in around two hundred sixty thousand dollars. While prices keep pace with national trends, there has been a slight increase in rental inventory along the Gateway corridor, which is good news for families and young professionals hoping to stay close to work and city life.

New business buzz is strong

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Saturday, August 2, 2025.

We begin with an update from city hall where officials are proposing a lower property tax rate. Even as rates look set to dip, rising home values across the city may mean monthly payments stay about the same for many of us. City leaders are also working to restart the long-stalled Pellicano Drive expansion, an effort that could soon bring long-needed relief to drivers in the east. Meanwhile, an audit shows some El Paso hotels owe about 1.4 million dollars in back taxes, with collection notices just sent out. That could mean more city services down the line.

Our weather today is mostly cloudy with a high near 97. If you are making plans for the weekend, expect a hot Saturday with temperatures up to 99 and, by Sunday, a toasty 102, so be sure to stay hydrated if you’re heading out to events in the city’s parks or downtown plazas.

Turning to real estate, homes continue to move quickly, with listings closing in under 30 days in many neighborhoods through the east and west side. Rental demand also remains steady as folks relocate for work or school. Speaking of jobs, Indeed lists just over 8,500 current openings in the El Paso area, with employers from Walmart to Costco and FedEx looking to fill positions. Customer service roles averaging about 18 dollars an hour are drawing interest, especially as remote work options expand after training.

On the education beat, new records show Lamar Elementary in central El Paso is struggling with low staff numbers and enrollment. Yet, a recent survey across EPISD schools reveals students are reporting a growing sense of belonging, a positive sign with the new school year starting soon. And there’s reason to celebrate at the El Paso Zoo, where beloved Galapagos tortoise Pancho is back, relaxing in a newly upgraded habitat.

Our community calendar is packed. Today at the Sun City Sawdust DIY Studio on Redd Road, you can try your hand at Japanese Kokedama or join a tea-tasting group noon at the El Paso Museum of Art. This evening, the popular Jazz Around Town series brings local musicians to The Dusty Tap, while Zin Valle Vineyards hosts live acts all weekend. Tomorrow at Southwest University Park, El Paso Locomotive FC takes on Las Vegas Lights in a key home match—tickets are still available and kickoff is at 7.

On the business front, we’re seeing a wave of small business openings from local tech startups to food trucks, a hopeful sign for the city’s recovery. However, some older retail spaces, particularly in central El Paso, are quiet as lease renewals remain uncertain.

Turning to crime and public safety, the past 24 hours saw police making a high-profile arrest after a video surfaced of a driver speeding at 112 miles an hour down I-10 East. In other incidents, a house fire in northeast El Paso yesterday left three people injured after careless smoking near an oxygen tank. Crime Stoppers has released this week’s most wanted list, urging

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Friday, August 1st, 2025.

We start today with breaking news from Far East El Paso where the long-stalled Pellicano Drive Widening Project is finally moving forward. Commissioners this week approved six million dollars to restart construction, after a court ruled that the former contractor failed to deliver. The new plan will target the stretch between Aircoupe and Loop 375, aiming to add lanes and bike paths to help relieve traffic congestion in one of our fastest growing areas. Leaders say this move is about both accountability and getting drivers moving again.

Turning to downtown, city hall has announced a proposal to lower the property tax rate to its lowest level in a decade—just a hair above seventy-five cents per one hundred dollars of value. But rising home values may mean some homeowners still see a higher bill by about eighty dollars a year on average. City manager Dionne Mack says this balance reflects the challenge of keeping services strong while dealing with El Paso’s hot real estate market. There’s a public hearing on the budget August twelfth, so now’s the time to let your voice be heard.

On the jobs front, hotels in our area face increased scrutiny, with a city audit finding that several owe a combined one point four million dollars in back taxes. Collection notices are going out, and city administrators hope this effort will bring in more revenue and fair competition among local businesses.

Now for a look at today’s weather: We’re waking up to partly cloudy skies and seventy-four degrees, on our way to a high near ninety-six. Keep in mind, Saturday and Sunday will push close to one hundred degrees, so stay hydrated and watch for outdoor event updates if you have plans around the Civic Center Plaza.

In community news, the El Paso Zoo welcomes back its beloved Galapagos tortoise, now resting comfortably in an upgraded habitat. Zoo staff say this gentle giant’s return is already drawing crowds, and local kids have a chance to submit names as part of a summer contest.

Meanwhile, students across El Paso are getting ready for the upcoming school year. At Western Hills Elementary, parents are invited today for an afternoon open house and a welcome session for new families. The district is highlighting a new elementary innovation program, setting the stage for more hands-on learning this fall.

On the music front, the Plaza Theatre is tuning up for a weekend jazz series, featuring El Paso talents and a special tribute to legendary saxophonist Richie Garcia on Saturday night. Local music fans can snag free daytime tickets at the box office downtown.

For sports fans, the El Paso Chihuahuas fought hard last night but dropped a close one to the Express, who put up five runs in the bottom of the eighth for a six-to-four comeback. The series continues tonight at Southwest University Park on Santa Fe Street, with first pitch at seven.

In public safety, police are investigating a deadly stabb

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Thursday, July 31. We start today with breaking news as political tensions grow over a new redistricting proposal at the Texas Legislature. Lawmakers are considering splitting Fort Bliss and the El Paso International Airport out of Congresswoman Veronica Escobar’s district, assigning them to Congressman Tony Gonzales who’s based more than 500 miles away. Local leaders and residents argue this would dilute El Paso’s voice on economic powerhouses and military affairs. A public hearing is coming up Friday in Austin, and many El Pasoans are planning to speak out.

Turning to city hall, El Paso’s financial oversight committee just voted to bring in an independent audit firm to review conflict-of-interest situations. City council members say this is about keeping taxpayer trust and avoiding internal disputes when city business gets complicated.

Weather-wise, we’re starting out with clear skies and a warm breeze as we head for highs in the mid-90s, likely reaching about 94 degrees downtown today. Recent storms have left many Northeast residents frustrated. Flooding issues have once again swamped streets near Dyer and Gateway North. City officials urge us to report any continued drainage concerns while they evaluate long-term fixes. For tomorrow and the weekend, more sunshine and temperatures creeping toward 98, so sun hats and lots of water are a must for any outdoor plans.

On the jobs front, El Paso’s market remains active. There are well over eight thousand positions listed this morning, with openings in warehousing up near the airport, new roles at both Sam’s Club and Costco off I-10, and steady hiring in hospitality and healthcare. Regional economists project the city will add about thirty-five thousand jobs over the next couple years, especially in logistics and tech.

For real estate, the market is steady with new listings popping up from Kern Place to the Lower Valley. Agents say affordable starter homes and rental properties are seeing lots of action as families get settled ahead of the new school year.

In community events, tonight is the finale of Cool Canyon Nights at McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre, with Fungi Mungle delivering their high-energy sound. Looking ahead, the Empower Health Expo on August 16 at the Downtown Convention Center offers free screenings, vaccines, and wellness clinics, plus a chance to give blood or donate supplies. And next week, the El Fresco Music Series wraps up at the Plaza with a Latin and country themed bash—bring chairs and dancing shoes.

We also mark the sixth anniversary of the August third tragedy this week, with remembrance and healing events, community art installations, and gathering spaces for reflection across the city.

Education brings a bright spot. Canutillo ISD just unveiled its new police training facility, letting high school students get hands-on law enforcement experience while finishing their diplomas.

Now for sports, our local summer leagues fo

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