2 min read
Ron Helms
Back in Kerens TX Talk, and What Comes Next
A thank you to the Kerens TX Talk admins, a note on why open forums matter, and a preview of the Kerens coverage coming up: records request... (read more)
OpinionKerens, Texas
Opinion
11 articles
Opinion articles and editorial commentary on local government issues in small-town Texas. These pieces are clearly labeled and grounded in public records and direct observation, with analysis and perspective from the journalist.
5 min read
Ron Helms
A Note to Tool Residents on Officer Ochoa
Thank you for the response. Here is what I am seeing in your accounts, where things stand with the city, and how you can help move this forward. (read more)
OpinionTool, TexasPolice
15 min read
Ron Helms
The Problem With BiCARBUS Is That It Works
I think BiCARBUS is probably a good product. I also think Italy's residents deserved to know before it was connected to their water supply without... (read more)
OpinionItaly, TexasWater
6 min read
Ron Helms
Enough Is Enough, Paul Sessions of Seven Points
A city council candidate posted a biased video clip after Seven Points' most productive meeting in months. Updated 3/29: The deleted post claim has... (read more)
OpinionSeven Points, TexasCity Council
5 min read
Ron Helms
No Property Taxes, No Cameras, No Thanks
The S.M. Dunlap Library in Italy announced a candidate forum with no cameras allowed. The library pays zero property taxes. And the community already... (read more)
OpinionItaly, TexasPolitics
3 min read
Ron Helms
2026 Election Candidate Questionnaire
Nine questions for every candidate running in the May 2026 city council elections. Submit your written answers by email. (read more)
OpinionPolitics
1 min read
Ron Helms
I Sat Down with Italy's Top Chief Candidate
I had a half-hour conversation with Brandon Torres. He left me cautiously optimistic, but the mold problem at the police department isn't going away... (read more)
OpinionPoliceItaly, Texas
5 min read
Ron Helms
I've Been Doing My Homework, Seven Points
A week into researching Seven Points city government, here's what the public should know heading into the May election, and a message for the voices... (read more)
OpinionSeven Points, TexasLocal Government
2 min read
Ron Helms
Italy Candidate Forum Update
The city called back about the candidate forum. They won't let me use city hall, and the alternative costs more than it's worth. So I'm doing it my... (read more)
OpinionItaly, TexasPolitics
5 min read
Ron Helms
Leaving Italy, Not the Fight
ITXN is done. I'm not. Here's what we built, why I'm walking away from Italy, and where this work is taking me. (read more)
OpinionItaly, Texas
7 min read
Ron Helms
Seven Thoughts for Seven Points
After attending my first Seven Points city council meeting, here are seven thoughts I can't stop thinking about, and one reason to stay hopeful. (read more)
OpinionSeven Points, TexasLocal Government