Amarillo Texas Local News - April 14, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news:Park Access Complaints Grow: Frustration is mounting among Amarillo residents who say they are paying for public spaces they cannot use. Locked restrooms and closed pools at local parks—including Medi Park, John Ward Park, John Stiff Park, Southwest Park, and Thompson Park—have sparked complaints about accessibility [1]. Residents point to locked parking lots and facilities as barriers to enjoying city amenities.Rep. Tony Gonzales Retires: U.S. Representative Tony Gonzales (TX-23) has announced he will retire from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations. Gonzales admitted to an affair with his Regional District Director, Regina Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide. The announcement came as bipartisan calls for his expulsion intensified [2][9]. Gonzales stated he will file his retirement paperwork when Congress returns [9].City Employee Plea Agreement: A former City of Amarillo employee has reached a plea agreement on a federal charge of Theft Concerning a Program Receiving Federal Funds [3]. Additionally, a third City of Amarillo employee, Selene Varela, pleaded guilty to stealing money from the homeless in federal court [2].Weather:No major weather events are forecast in the immediate outlook. However, city crews continue addressing infrastructure damage from past weather events. Public Works recently rehabilitated 58th Street after damage from Winter Storm Fern, restoring 1,800 feet of roadway [8]. The HAWK signal at Georgia & Plains was also upgraded to enhance pedestrian safety [8].Events:Power of the Purse Luncheon: This long-standing High Plains tradition returns for another year. The event has become one of the area's most anticipated gatherings, though specific date and ticket information was not detailed in available reports [4].local business:HUB Program Changes Blocked: A Travis County judge granted a temporary injunction blocking rule changes to Texas's Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program. The ruling affects how the state certifies and supports minority and women-owned businesses seeking government contracts [6].Chef Bud's Kitchen: Local chef Bud Andersen recently shared a pork belly sandwich recipe on Studio 4, continuing his series of local cooking segments [5].school:West Plains Football Coach Departs: After leading the West Plains Wolves football team through its first four seasons, head coach Adam Cummings is leaving the sidelines. Cummings is transitioning to a new role within Canyon ISD [7]. The announcement came during a Monday night meeting [2].The Roundup:Heroic Officers Save Li...