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El Paso Matters

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Articles from El Paso Matters

El Paso Matters•Dec 22

Betsy Keller forgoes pay raise to support El Paso County employees amid budget issues

El Paso County Chief Administrator Betsy Keller has chosen to decline a pay raise following her successful annual performance evaluation, emphasizing her commitment to the county's employees who have not received raises due to budget constraints. The El Paso County Commissioners Court unanimously acknowledged her performance but took no further action regarding her compensation. Keller, who has served in her role since 2016, currently earns approximately $295,000, significantly less than the El Paso City Manager's salary. She aims to enhance public communication and transparency while managing a $653 million budget and overseeing around 3,100 employees. Keller's leadership is crucial as the county prepares for upcoming projects funded by voter-approved bonds totaling $155 million.

Politics budget leadership
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 21

Douglass Elementary's Remarkable Rating Improvement Amid Community Challenges

Douglass Elementary School in El Paso has shown significant progress by improving its state accountability rating from a D to a B in just one year, as reported by the Texas Education Agency. This turnaround is noteworthy as it reflects the efforts of Principal Michelle Sanchez Corral and her team to address educational gaps and engage the community. Despite this overall improvement, the school continues to struggle with student achievement, receiving an F in that category for three consecutive years. The school has absorbed new students from nearby closures and aims to enhance academic performance while fostering a positive school culture. Community involvement has increased, with parents actively participating in school events, contributing to a more supportive learning environment.

Education el-paso education
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 19

El Paso's Resilience Shines Amid Challenges in 2025

In 2025, El Paso faced significant challenges, including state interference and unfunded mandates that strained local budgets. Despite these obstacles, the community demonstrated resilience through initiatives like the expansion of parks funded by voter-approved bonds and programs aimed at improving public health and access to services. The county's efforts have led to a notable reduction in overdose deaths and enhanced community engagement through over 100 events. Looking forward to 2026, local leaders emphasize the importance of participatory governance and community collaboration to continue building a thriving environment for all residents, despite pressures from state and federal policies.

Community community local-governance
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 19

El Paso Updates: New Superintendent Contract and Mpox Case Confirmed

The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) has finalized a four-year contract for new Superintendent Brian Lusk, who will earn a base salary of $360,000 annually, with potential bonuses and retirement contributions. His contract includes performance incentives and a relocation stipend of $15,000, requiring him to establish residency within district boundaries by June 30, 2026. Meanwhile, the El Paso Department of Public Health has reported a new case of mpox, the first since 2024, involving a man in his 50s who is currently recovering at home. Health officials are conducting contact tracing and recommend vaccination for those at high risk. Additionally, the Socorro Independent School District is offering a $2,500 buyout to employees as it anticipates a loss of 725 students next school year.

Community education public-health
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 18

UMC CEO Jacob Cintron's Salary and Bonus Surge Amid Hospital Growth

Jacob Cintron, the CEO of University Medical Center (UMC) in El Paso, has received a substantial 14% salary increase, raising his annual pay to $1,128,582, retroactive to October 1, 2026. The UMC board approved this raise along with a bonus of $346,449, reflecting Cintron's performance and the hospital's expanding budget of $1.9 billion for 2026. This increase aligns with a broader trend of rising CEO salaries in the healthcare sector, despite a slower wage growth for healthcare workers. UMC has also opened new facilities and enhanced services, contributing to a significant revenue increase of 29% over the previous year. The board emphasized the importance of competitive compensation to attract top talent in the healthcare industry.

Health umc healthcare
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 18

City Delays Duranguito Redevelopment Plans, Leaving Future Uncertain

The El Paso city staff has once again rejected redevelopment proposals for the Duranguito neighborhood, which has been in limbo for almost a decade. The decision, communicated by Purchasing Director Claudia Garcia on December 5, means the city will need to reconsider its approach to revitalizing the area. The properties, purchased for about $13 million in 2017, were initially intended for a now-abandoned arena project. City officials aim to find a developer who can preserve the historic character of the area while incorporating affordable housing and retail spaces. No new timeline has been set for future proposals, but city representatives emphasize their commitment to transforming Duranguito into a vibrant mixed-use district.

Community redevelopment duranguito
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 17

Efforts Unite El Paso and Juárez for Improved Air Quality

El Paso and Ciudad Juárez are collaborating to enhance air quality along the U.S.-Mexico border, driven by their shared economic and environmental challenges. The North American Development Bank (NADBank) is actively supporting this initiative through projects like the Air Quality Monitoring Fund, which has expanded Juárez's air-monitoring stations to five. This collaboration aims to provide real-time data for assessing air quality and planning interventions. Additionally, a pilot study on low-emission trucks is underway to reduce emissions in key trade corridors. These efforts underscore the importance of interagency coordination and local commitment to ensure a healthier environment for border residents.

Community border environment
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 17

Texas Democrats Prepare Comprehensive Candidate Slate for 2026 Elections

In a historic move, the Texas Democratic Party has announced that it will field candidates for every state and federal race in the upcoming 2026 elections. This unprecedented effort, driven by key Democratic figures and organizations, aims to challenge Republican dominance in Texas, where they currently hold 25 of 38 congressional seats and control the state legislature. The recruitment campaign has successfully enlisted 104 candidates, ensuring Democratic representation in all statewide judicial and educational races. This strategy is seen as essential to enhance voter turnout and engagement, particularly in rural areas where Democrats have struggled. The party's leaders believe that increased local campaigning can shift perceptions and garner support from diverse voter demographics across the state.

Politics democrats elections
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 17

El Paso's Holiday Celebrations: Luminarias, Posadas, and Family Fun Events

El Paso is gearing up for a festive week filled with cultural and civic events. The 31st annual Navidad de La Fe Luminarias will light up Scenic Drive on December 20, featuring 4,000 luminarias and a live Nativity scene, with donations accepted for local families. Additionally, the Arts District Posada will take place on December 18, offering free activities and a traditional procession. For adults, La Nube STEAM Discovery Center will host a holiday-themed 'After Hours' event on December 19. Families can meet Santa at various library branches through December 20, while WinterFest continues with ice skating and holiday performances through early January. These events provide community engagement and support for local families during the holiday season.

Community holiday community
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 16

Ysleta ISD Faces Enrollment Crisis and Budget Deficits Amid Declining Birth Rates

Ysleta Independent School District (YISD) is grappling with a significant drop in student enrollment, losing approximately 1,400 students, or 4%, for the 2025-26 academic year. This decline, which has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted the district to reassess its budget, resulting in a projected $19.5 million deficit for the current school year. The decrease in kindergarten enrollment, which has fallen by 25% to around 1,950 students, is particularly concerning as it indicates long-term implications for funding and planning. YISD's financial struggles are compounded by reduced state funding linked to attendance, leading to cost-cutting measures such as limiting hiring and renegotiating contracts. With the district's reserves dwindling, stakeholders are urged to stay informed about upcoming budget updates and potential impacts on staff compensation.

Education enrollment budget
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 15

Guatemalan Man Returns to U.S. After Illegal Deportation Before Child's Birth

A 33-year-old Guatemalan man, referred to as FPP, has been returned to the U.S. after being illegally deported to Guatemala just days before his wife was set to give birth. A federal judge ordered his return, criticizing immigration officials for their unlawful actions. FPP had previously been granted protection against deportation due to fears of torture in Guatemala, but was mistakenly removed on November 20. His return was facilitated after a legal battle, with the judge emphasizing the need for compliance with immigration court orders. FPP is currently in ICE custody in El Paso and faces potential deportation to a third country.

Crime deportation immigration
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 15

Lighting Campus for Hope: El Paso's Celebration for Cancer Survivors and Fundraising

The third annual Lighting Campus for Hope event took place on December 5, 2025, at Texas Tech Health El Paso, attracting 1,000 attendees to raise awareness and funds for cancer screenings. Starla Warren, a cancer survivor, shared her inspiring journey, emphasizing the importance of hope and resilience. The event raised significant funds, including a $500,000 donation from El Paso Electric and its charitable foundation towards the construction of the Fox Cancer Center, part of the $50 million Building Hope Campaign. Proceeds will provide over 600 cancer screenings and follow-up diagnostics for the community, enhancing access to vital health services.

Health healthcare community
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 15

Support El Paso's Local Artists for Meaningful Holiday Gifts

As the holiday season approaches, El Paso residents are encouraged to support local artists by purchasing unique gifts from local galleries like the Photographer’s Collaborative. Unlike mass-produced items found in big-box stores, locally created art offers a personal connection and tells a story tied to the community. Prices for local art are often comparable to generic decor items, making it an accessible option for meaningful gifting. By choosing local art, consumers not only enrich their homes but also contribute to the local economy and affirm the value of creativity in El Paso.

Community community local-art
1 min read
El Paso Matters•Dec 14

Judges Recommend Lower Rate Hike for El Paso Electric Customers

A panel of judges has proposed a reduced rate increase for El Paso Electric customers, suggesting a profit margin of 9.4% instead of the requested 10.7%. This recommendation comes as part of an ongoing rate case, with a final decision expected from the Public Utility Commission in February. The proposed increase, initially set to raise average monthly bills from $96 to $118, may now be less severe, potentially lowering the increase by $4.46 if the judges' recommendations are adopted. The judges also advised maintaining the current fee structure for rooftop solar customers, who are currently charged a minimum bill of $30. El Paso Electric is evaluating the recommendations as it plans to apply for rate increases in New Mexico next year.

Business rate-increase utility
1 min read