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Despite no action being taken by the Hamilton City Council on the proposed Yard of the Month initiative at its most recent meeting, Mayor Todd Jordan announced that the program will still occur for the months of July, August and September. The Yard of the Month item had been placed on the July 9 City Council agenda but was not acted upon.

To ensure the program moves forward, the mayor said he will personally fund the $50 utility bill credit awarded to each monthly winner, rather than using city funds.

“I believe the beauty of Hamilton speaks volumes about our community and the pride we all have in it,” the mayor said. “Maintaining neighborhoods reflects the spirit of our citizens and helps create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike. I look forward to seeing the participation in this program and recognizing the winners.”

The Yard of the Month initiative recognizes homeowners who take exceptional pride in maintaining and beautifying their properties, encouraging others throughout the community to do the same.

In addition to the $50 water bill credit, winners will receive prizes donated by several local businesses. The mayor expressed his appreciation to the community partners who have generously supported the program, including the Hamilton Herald- News, Dig This, Cattle Country Coffee and Hamilton Car Wash.

“The generosity of these local businesses demonstrates the strong community spirit that makes Hamilton special,” said Jordan. “Their support allows us to celebrate residents who invest their time and effort into making our city more beautiful.”

Yard of the Month winners will be selected for July, August and September, with each recipient receiving the mayor-funded $50 utility credit along with donated prizes from the participating local businesses.

(SAN ANGELO) -- The Sheep and Goat Predator Management Board will mail ballots this week to elect three producers to represent sheep and goat raisers in its 111-county area. Ballots must be returned to the Board office by the midnight August 3rd deadline.

All sheep and goat raisers who reside in one of the three districts are eligible to vote in the upcoming election. The Texas Commodity Referendum Law, which governs the producer board, requires biennial elections. Ballots must bear the signature and address of the voter and indicate production totals.

Sheep and goat producers nominated for the three open positions on the nine-member board are: District 1: Ty Allen; District 2: Johnny Mayo, Jr.; District 3: Glen Stegemoller. These producers completed a nomination form with ten qualified sheep and/or goat producers supporting their nomination, and returned the completed form by the July 2, 2026, deadline. They will each serve a sixyear term.

Sheep and goat producers who would like to receive a ballot and have sheep and goat production and reside in one of the districts may obtain ballots at their local county extension offices, or through the Sheep and Goat Predator Management Board office at P.O. Box 3543, San Angelo, Texas 76902-3543, or by calling 325-659-8777.

The Sheep & Goat Predator Board has several programs designed to help sheep & goat producers within the referendum district. Any producer may participate in these programs by calling the office. These programs include the County Funding Program which distributes monies directly to the county clubs to fund whatever needs they might have. This funding is based on the USDA census for head of livestock within that county. The Guard Dog Program is a program between the Board and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, designed to provide research and technical assistance and training aid to sheep & goat producers in order for them to develop a successful livestock guardian dog program. The Producer Assistance Program reimburses producers for flights related to predator control.

Producers vote in the district in which they live, even if they have production in other districts.

District 1: Brewster, Culberson, Crane, Crockett, Ector, Glasscock, Hudspeth, Irion, Jeff Davis, Loving, Midland, Pecos, Presidio, Reagan, Reeves, Sterling, Sutton, Terrell, Upton, Val Verde, Ward and Winkler.

District 2: Bandera, Edwards, Kerr, Kinney, Kimble, Mason, Medina, Menard, Real, Schleicher, Tom Green, Uvalde and Zavala.

District 3: Andrews, Archer, Bailey, Baylor, Bell, Blanco, Borden, Bosque, Brown, Burnet, Callahan, Castro, Childress, Clay, Cochran, Coke, Coleman, Comal, Comanche, Concho, Coryell, Cottle, Crosby, Dawson, Dickens, Eastland, Erath, Fisher, Floyd, Gaines, Garza, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Hale, Hamilton, Haskell, Hays, Hockley, Hood, Howard, Jack, Jones, Kendall, Kent, King, Knox, Lamb, Lampasas, Llano, Lubbock, Lynn, Martin, McCulloch, McLennan, Milam, Mills, Mitchell, Motley, Nolan, Palo Pinto, Parker, Parmer, Runnels, San Saba, Scurry, Shackelford, Somervell, Stephens, Stonewall, Taylor, Terry, Throckmorton, Travis, Williamson, Yoakum and Young counties.

Fertilizer is and has always been a significant production expense whether you are growing corn, cotton, or pasture forage. Fertilizer costs have increased tremendously over the last few decades. Commercial fertilizers are the costliest input in warm season grass forage production for livestock systems. In addition to economic concerns, inefficient fertilizer use can contribute to nutrient runoff, soil degradation, and water quality issues. Below are some important issues relative to fertilizer efficiency, along with strategies that support both cost savings and soil and water conservation.

1. Soil Test:

Adequate soil fertility is one key to successful forage and livestock production in Texas. Soil testing is still the best management tool to monitor soil fertility levels while also protecting natural resources. Routine soil tests can help identify nutrient deficiencies, excess nutrient buildup, and improper soil pH. Applying fertilizer without a soil test amounts to guessing—this can lead to over-application, increasing the risk of nutrient runoff into nearby waterways, or under-application, reducing forage productivity. By applying only what is needed, producers can reduce input costs while minimizing nutrient losses to the environment. Based on soil test results, cost-effective fertilization programs can be developed to meet forage nutrient requirements and conserve soil and water quality.

2. Choosing the Most Appropriate Fertilizer Source: Several fertilizer sources are commercially available to supply N, P, K, and micronutrients to forage crops. Ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, and urea are the major N sources used on pastures in Texas. Organic sources such as biosolids and animal manure also represent important nutrient sources. When choosing the right fertilizer source, consider not only price and effectiveness, but also environmental impact. For example, selecting sources less prone to volatilization or leaching can improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce losses to the atmosphere or groundwater. Proper source selection helps ensure nutrients remain in the root zone where plants can use them.

3. Timing and Rate of Fertilizer Application: Fertilizer should be applied when forage is actively growing to maximize nutrient uptake and minimize losses. For most warm season grasses in Texas, growth begins when night temperatures reach 60°F. Applying fertilizer too early or before plant establishment increases the likelihood of nutrients being lost through runoff or leaching. Splitting nitrogen and potassium applications reduces the risk of nutrient loss and improves efficiency. For hayfields, applying nutrients after each cutting ensures nutrients are used effectively while reducing excess buildup in the soil. Proper timing and rate not only improve yields but also help protect nearby water sources from nutrient contamination.

4. Utilization of Forage Legumes: In association with Rhizobium bacteria, clovers and other legumes obtain nitrogen from the atmosphere through biological nitrogen fixation. This natural process reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, lowering costs and decreasing the risk of nitrogen losses to the environment. High-yielding legumes can contribute 75–100 lbs N/acre for subsequent grass crops. Additionally, legumes improve soil structure, increase organic matter, and enhance water infiltration, which helps reduce erosion and runoff. Grazing animals recycle nutrients efficiently, returning more than 80% of consumed nutrients back to the soil through manure and urine, further supporting nutrient cycling and soil health.

5. Use of Biosolids or Animal Manures: Organic amendments such as poultry litter and biosolids can be valuable nutrient sources, but they must be managed carefully. The nitrogen in these materials is released slowly, which can improve nutrient retention in the soil but also requires proper timing to match plant needs. Improper application can lead to excessive phosphorus accumulation, increasing the risk of runoff into surface waters. Incorporating or timing applications to avoid heavy rainfall can reduce nutrient losses. Monitoring soil fertility regularly after manure applications is essential to prevent nutrient buildup and protect water quality. When used correctly, organic amendments enhance soil organic matter, improve water-holding capacity, and support long-term soil productivity.

Bottom line: Efficient fertilizer management is not just about reducing costs— it’s about keeping nutrients where they belong: in the soil, supporting forage growth, and out of waterways. By integrating sound fertility practices with soil and water conservation principles, producers can improve profitability while sustaining the land for future use.

Looking for help? Local conservation professionals can help you reduce fertilizer input costs and develop a livestock management plan that matches your situation and goals. Contact the SWCD or NRCS office in your county to make a free conservation plan that benefits your livestock operation. You can find your local NRCS or SWCD office by visiting the website links or scanning the QR codes below:

The City of Hamilton is inviting residents, downtown business owners and com munity members to attend a public information meeting on the upcoming Downtown Sidewalk Project.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, July 16, at 6:00 p.m. at the Hamilton Public Library. Project representa tives will provide an over view of the project, discuss the construction schedule and answer questions from the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the project’s timeline and construction phases, see how access to downtown businesses will be maintained during construction and hear updates directly from those overseeing the project.

The Downtown Sidewalk Project represents a signifi cant investment in the future of Hamilton’s historic down town. The project has been several years in the making and is designed to improve pedestrian safety, accessibil ity and the overall appear ance of the downtown district while preserving its historic character.

In 2024, the City of Hamilton received approval for a matching grant through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TA) Program, which will provide funding for sidewalk improvements around the downtown square. The Hamilton Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) is providing the required local matching funds, demonstrating the community’s commitment to revitalizing downtown infrastructure.

City officials recognize that construction will create temporary inconveniences for businesses, property owners and visitors. However, they emphasize that every effort will be made to maintain access to downtown businesses throughout the project. The City encourages residents to continue shopping, dining and supporting local businesses during construction as improvements are completed.

Community members are encouraged to attend the July 16 meeting to learn more about the project, ask questions and stay informed as construction moves forward.

For additional information, contact the HEDC/Main Street office at (254) 3868116, Option 9 or edc@cityhamiltontx. gov.

The City of Hamilton Downtown Sidewalk Project is underway. Work was scheduled to begin on Monday, according to the presentation made at the Hamilton City Council meeting last Thursday.

A sidewalk project public meeting will be held this Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Hamilton Public Library. Everyone is invited to attend to see the new sidewalk renderings and hear the renovation specifics.

The project is anticipated to be completed within two to three months, with a possible extension to the end of the year. The sidewalks and steps will be ADA compliant with the addition of ramps and railing in key locations. There will also be a new walkway starting on Henry Street and leading to the Pecan Creek Trail.

Turning to another grant-funded project, the council approved the scope of work for the $7 million Texas Water Development Board and Environmental Protection Agency project focusing on the beginning of pipe replacement for the city.

Engineering firm Pape-Dawson conducted a survey of Hamilton’s water system and created a preliminary list of priority areas needing significant attention. The draft project schedule indicates that the complete planning phase and the beginning of environmental review and survey will be completed in August 2026.

road, there is nothing prettier than seeing a deputy walk up to help,” says Ratliff.

In order to achieve this goal, Ratliff recognizes the need to increase the number of deputies in HCSO. He believes that a well-run department is vital to successful recruitment, along with opportunities for education and training. Offering an equivalent salary to other regional sheriff offices is also important.

“This falls on my shoulders,” said Ratliff. “I know we lost a number of deputies, but I will get it back.”

Born in Del Rio, Ratliff has been a Hamilton resident since 2022. His wife formerly worked for the City of Austin and is now employed by Texas State University. He has two adult children. His daughter is a speech and language therapist and his son is a Texas State Trooper.

Ratliff served as a Texas Ranger for 21 years between 1987 and 2008 in Pampa, Austin and San Marcos duty stations. His specializations were tactical training team, officer-involved shooting, homicide, special investigations and VIP protection. In VIP Protection, he served many high-ranking officials, including both President George H.W. Bush and President George W. Bush.

Additionally, Ratliff earned awards from the Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Secret Service. His post-Ranger law enforcement service includes working as Hays County Justice of the Peace and Sheriff.

When asked what his message to Hamilton is, Ratliff said, “We will be fair to everybody. We will do our business to help the community do their business.”

He said, “I want the deputies to be seen as taking care of people, not as just putting people in jail - that people will know they are safe here.”

The Hamilton County Commissioners Court was kept busy approving contracts and agreements at their meeting on Tuesday. The court authorized a memorandum of agreement between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. The agreement sets guidelines for HCSO’s receipt of a second ICE grant that would possibly provide monies to repair and upgrade the Hamilton County Jail.

Hamilton County Chief Deputy Micah Looke explained that the jail will be used to hold illegal immigrants that have been detained by ICE-certified HCSO deputies. Initial detainee screenings will be done by current HCSO employee Michelle Thompson, who is in the process of being trained on how to administer the screening. If an individual is further detained after the HCSO screening, ICE will then conduct a second screening.

The grant awards HCSO $100,000 per quarter that must be used towards the jail as designated by the grant application. How and where the monies will be spent on the jail is at the discretion of the sheriff’s office.

Looke also reported on the number of traffic stops made by HCSO, including a DMV-registered vehicle. The vehicle in question was weighed using the department’s newly calibrated scales, and it was discovered that the weight was over the required limits. Looke explained the citation for this one offense was $4,500.

A HCSO K-9 program is expected to begin in September. The dog will be used primarily for drug sniffs and traffic stops.

“Don’t worry,” said Looke. “This will be a nobite dog.”

The court also approved a contract between the county and Indigent Health Care, a public service program whose mission is to provide health care to eligible individuals. Currently, the organization managed by Lana Davidson and Jenny Haferkamp serves Coryell County residents. These medical indigent services will now also be provided to Hamilton County qualifying residents. A representative from Natural Resources Solution presented the Hamilton County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) to be signed by the court and put into action. The CWPP was developed with input from Hamilton officials, fire department, emergency management, landowners, residents and technical partners. Unfortunately, a public meeting held June 17 in the court annex to obtain input from the community was poorly attended.

Now in place, the plan qualifies the American Conservation Foundation to apply for grants up to $10 million on behalf of Hamilton County. Natural Resources Solution has already developed a plan for Coryell County and is currently working on plans for Mills and Lampasas counties, including Evant. If these counties also receive grants, Hamilton and its surrounding areas will be well-prepared in both understanding and preventing wildfire risks, and in identifying actions that can reduce wildfire impact.

The court also approved an IT committee who will work with CivicPlus, a company which specializes in government websites and technology. The goal of the committee is to upgrade the current county website to be ADA compliant. The committee appointees are County Clerk Rachel Geeslin, Chief Deputy Clerk Alejandra Moncada and Deputy Clerks Kristen Reid and Mariah Whitehead.

Goldthwaite, TX — July 6, 2026 — The Texas Botanical Gardens & Native American Interpretive Center, Inc. (TBGNAIC) invites the public to experience the beauty and mystery of the natural world after dark during Sip, Savor, and Study: A Mothing Soirée with Tessa Boucher, Wildlife Biologist with Texas Parks & Wildlife, on Friday, July 17, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Texas Botanical Gardens, 1219 Fisher Street, Goldthwaite.

The evening begins at dusk with an engaging presentation by Tessa Boucher, who will introduce participants to the practice of mothing—the observation, identification, and documentation of moths and other moonlight-loving insects. Guests will learn about their remarkable diversity, their essential ecological roles, and practical techniques for observing and humanely capturing and documenting these extraordinary creatures. As darkness settles in, participants will venture over to multiple observation stations set up across a variety of habitats in the Gardens to examine moths and other nighttime species.

The event is free for TBGNAIC members and $5 for nonmembers.