Amarillo Texas Local News - April 16, 2026

Amarillo Texas Local News Breaking news: Six individuals have been arrested and charged with distributing fentanyl in Amarillo, with court documents alleging the defendants brought the drug to Amarillo from New Mexico [9]. In law enforcement news, Assistant Chief Jimmy Johnson, who served as former Interim Amarillo Police Chief, is set to retire after 38 years with APD [9]. The Amarillo City Council met on April 14 to discuss cost recovery measures and future water rates [9]. Additionally, Potter County Commissioners approved a burn ban and discussed vaping policy during their April 13 meeting [9]. Weather: Despite early April showers bringing the best statewide drought improvement since December, the Texas Panhandle is experiencing an expansion of drought conditions [4]. Residents should stay informed on water conservation efforts as the region continues to monitor conditions. The Amarillo Tribune noted rain in the forecast for mid-April, advising residents to keep umbrellas handy [9]. Events: West Texas A&M University and The Hill Institute are hosting a Civil Discourse and Civics Education symposium, providing an opportunity for community engagement on important civic topics [9]. Additionally, the WT Theatre program is offering an innovative take on the classic love story 'Pride and Prejudice' [9]. Residents interested in water issues should note that an Ogallala Aquifer educational summit was recently hosted by the Ogallala Commons to help landowners become better stewards of the aquifer [8]. local business: Haven Aviation Services Group has opened its first fixed-based operator (FBO) at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport, expanding aviation services for the region [3]. In major local investment news, Amarillo National Bank donated $3 million to WTAMU's One West campaign, contributing to the university's nine-year fundraising effort that has significantly transformed the institution [2][8]. school: Amarillo College announced a new partnership with the University of Texas Permian Basin designed to make student transfers easier between the institutions [1]. West Texas A&M University's One West fundraising campaign continues to bring changes to campus, with more than 11,000 Region 16 ESC employees, their spouses, and dependents now eligible for half-off tuition and fees at WT [2][9]. United Supermarkets and Mrs Baird's Bread honored three Amarillo area teachers as Teachers on the Rise for March [6]. The Roundup: Arizona Diamondbacks left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. has started his season at Hodgetown in Amarillo after an offseason of healing and recalibrating