Last week, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced Senate committee assignments for the 89th Texas Legislature.

I am honored to serve on the Senate Committees on Business and Commerce; Health and Human Services; Natural Resources; and Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs. I will also continue my critical work on the Texas Sunset Commission, which I was appointed to in 2024. These assignments are a chance to focus on what truly matters: making life more affordable, expanding opportunities, and building a prosperous future for our communities.

Empowering El Paso-area businesses

Small businesses are the backbone of Senate District 29. From the mom-and-pop shops lining our streets in El Paso to the entrepreneurs shaping the future in our rural towns, these businesses are the heartbeat of our economy. As a new member of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce, I’ll work to ensure our local job creators have the resources they need to succeed.

Texas is the ninth-largest economy in the world, and El Paso and West Texas play a crucial role in this success. Our region is uniquely positioned as a hub for cross-border trade and international commerce. I am committed to advancing policies that support small businesses, strengthen trade, and build the infrastructure that keeps Texas globally competitive.

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At the same time, I’ll push for investments in workforce development programs that prepare our people for careers in growing industries like aerospace, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. These initiatives will not only keep talented individuals in El Paso and West Texas but also create a brighter economic future for all of us.

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Prioritizing health and well-being

Health is wealth, and without access to affordable, quality care, opportunities mean little. Health is the foundation of a strong community, yet too many families in our district face barriers to affordable, quality care. Senate District 29 spans over 15,000 square miles, and for many, accessing health care can mean traveling hundreds of miles. Serving again on the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services allows me to tackle these challenges head-on.

This session, I’ll focus on expanding health care access, addressing workforce shortages in the medical field, and improving maternal and mental health services. Whether it’s ensuring new parents have access to quality maternity care or expanding mental health resources for our youth, these are issues that hit close to home for many in our district.

Families in West Texas deserve peace of mind knowing that quality care is available close to home. By prioritizing affordability and accessibility, we can create a health care system that truly serves everyone in West Texas.

Securing our energy future

West Texas has always been an energy powerhouse, contributing significantly through both renewable and traditional energy sources. As a member of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, I’ll work to ensure our region continues to lead the way in energy innovation while addressing critical challenges.

Our district is uniquely positioned to take advantage of geothermal energy, an emerging renewable resource with enormous potential. By investing in geothermal technology, we can create high-paying jobs and establish West Texas as a leader in clean energy.

At the same time, we need to tackle issues like oil theft in the Permian Basin, which harms our economy and the livelihoods of local patch-workers, as well as address the environmental challenges posed by unplugged oil wells affecting ranchers in West Texas.

On Natural Resources, I will champion a balanced “all of the above and all of the below” energy strategy that leverages our strengths in wind, solar, geothermal, and oil and gas to meet growing energy demands while driving down costs for Texas families.

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Advocating for rural communities

Senate District 29 is home to a vibrant mix of communities, each with its own unique challenges and strengths. Serving on the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs provides an opportunity to address these challenges with the urgency they deserve.

Water is life, and securing a sustainable water supply for West Texas is paramount. For both urban and rural communities, reliable access to water is essential for agriculture, business, and daily life. We must invest in infrastructure and conservation efforts to ensure that West Texas has a sustainable water supply for generations to come. Broadband connectivity is another critical issue. Expanding broadband to rural areas will open up opportunities for education, health care, and economic growth, ensuring no one is left behind.

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Shared vision for West Texas

The work of these committees touches every aspect of life in Senate District 29. Whether it’s supporting small businesses, addressing health care disparities, securing our energy future, or uplifting rural communities, the goal remains the same: to create an El Paso and West Texas where everyone has the chance to succeed.

As we begin this legislative session, I am filled with optimism and determination. Together, we can craft policies that make life more affordable, create new opportunities, and build a future defined by prosperity.

From El Paso to the Big Bend to the Permian Basin, the families of West Texas deserve nothing less. Let’s get to work.

State Sen. César J. Blanco, D-El Paso, represents District 29.

EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — A new aerospace center could be coming to downtown El Paso.

On Friday, the Borderplex Alliance announced it was awarded $19.7 million from the state of Texas to create a "Space Innovation Hub."

Although it is unclear at the moment where in downtown El Paso the hub will be, President and CEO Jon Barela said the Borderplex Alliance has identified many partners that will be creating jobs in what he called "this innovation center."

"This award is a spectacular opportunity for us to diversify our local economy and regional economy as we move to what I call Aerotech jobs," Barela said. "We are profoundly grateful to our state leadership, local partners, and supporters who have helped turn this vision into reality. The Space Innovation Hub represents more than an investment—it's a testament to our region's potential and collaborative spirit."

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One of those state leaders Barela thanked was State Senator Cesar J. Blanco, who he said was instrumental in securing the grant.

Blanco, who helped create the Texas Space Commission which awarded the grant, provided the following written statement following the announcement:

Last session, I was proud to help pass legislation and funding to create the Texas Space Commission, turning bold dreams into tangible opportunities like this grant. This partnership with the United States Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) for an Innovation Hub will be a beacon of collaboration, driving innovation and economic growth, creating high-paying jobs, and putting El Paso on the map as a leader in the space industry. This is about reaching for the stars—literally and figuratively—and building a future where our community and workforce can thrive in new frontiers of possibility.

El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson also released a written statement, saying that the creation of this center is a pivotal moment as the Borderland prepares for the future.

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Johnson wrote,

El Paso stands at the forefront of technological innovation, and this Space Innovation Hub represents a pivotal moment in our city's economic development. By investing in aerospace and advanced technologies, we are creating high-skilled jobs, attracting top talent, and positioning our community as a strategic center for future growth and opportunity.

The Borderplex Alliance said it will share more details regarding this new center in the coming months.

If you would like to learn more about the Borderplex Alliance, visit their website.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) — Homeowners in El Paso have until midnight on Friday, January 31, to pay their property taxes and avoid penalties and interest charges.

Starting February 1, unpaid property taxes will be subject to a 7% penalty and interest fee, which will increase monthly. By March, the penalty rises to 9%, and by April, it reaches 11%, continuing to climb as time passes.

ABC-7 spoke with Maria Pasillas, Tax Assessor Collector for the City of El Paso, who urges residents to make at least a partial payment by tomorrow, as penalties will begin accruing on Saturday.

Ways to Pay:

“Try to pay as much as you can to avoid that fee,” emphasized Pasillas. “Please note that as the week progresses the volume is going to be picking up.”

Payment Plans & Exemptions:

For those unable to pay in full by the deadline, payment agreements will be available starting next week. The city tax office says to contact them starting Monday to inquire about a payment agreement. Payment agreements are available until March 31^st for business personal property or June 30^th for real property before accounts are placed with a collection agency.

Certain groups, including seniors, veterans, and disabled homeowners, qualify for exemptions such as installment plans. Pasillas recommend that homeowners check their tax bill to make sure their exemptions have been applied. If they are missing, contact the Central Appraisal District for assistance.

Pasillas also warns first-time homeowners to be cautious of scams. “If you bought the property before January 1st, then you should have a homestead exemption on your property,” said Pasillas. “Some people will get a letter in the mail saying we charge you so much money to apply for your homestead. This service is free of charge with the appraisal district.”

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When filing, make sure to take your time. “For people paying with an electronic check, please be careful when entering your routing number and your bank account number,” Pasillas emphasized. “If that payment is not honored, then it's going to be considered late.”

Here’s a roundup of some culture and civic events in the borderland in the coming week.

Lunar New Year Celebration 2025

Ring in the year of the snake during the El Paso Museum of History’s sixth annual Lunar New Year Celebration from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the museum,510 N. Santa Fe St. The free, family-friendly event features food trucks, cultural decor, pop-up exhibits and activities from museums, libraries and community partners. At 3 p.m., a procession will wind through the Downtown Arts District, followed by traditional and modern performances from 4 to 5 p.m. Lunar New Year, celebrated by east and southeast Asian cultures, marks the beginning of the lunisolar calendar year and is steeped in customs to welcome luck and prosperity.

El Paso Opera’s ‘Roméo & Juliette’

The El Paso Opera will present a unique take on William Shakespeare’s timeless tale during “Roméo & Juliette,” an immersive portrayal of the iconic star-crossed lovers. Set against the backdrop of St. Rogers Depot, 420 N. Campbell St., the production features Benjamin Werley as Roméo and Helen Huang as Juliette. Performances run from Jan. 30 to Feb. 6, with shows on select evenings at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $45, with the performance sung in French and enhanced by English and Spanish supertitles. Information and tickets: epopera.org

Travel the World in Architecture Tour

Explore Downtown El Paso architecture on a free guided tour hosted by the Tom Lea Institute. This experience highlights diverse architectural styles, including the work of Henry C. Trost and the Spanish colonial revival designs of Mabel Weich, one of Texas’ first certified female architects. The tour begins at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 31, at the Aloft El Paso, 303 Texas Ave. Admission is free, but space is limited. Registration is required. Information: 915-533-0048 or tomlea.net

McKelligon Canyon Walk/Run/Hike

Celebrate National Play Outside Day with a walk, run or hike along McKelligon Canyon’s scenic trails beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1. This free event is the second in the We Hike Adventure Series, featuring a 2 to 5-mile trek along the canyon road and trailhead. Enjoy breathtaking views while exploring a loop suitable for all skill levels. Participants are encouraged to bring water, sunscreen, a hat and snacks. Complete two of the three hikes in the series to earn special finisher memorabilia. Information: wehikeadventure.org

Coming Up

Mark Your Calendar

Texas officials recently reported highly pathogenic avian influenza was detected in captive wild birds in El Paso this past December – the first cases reported in more than two years in the city.

Following a media release about recent bird flu findings across the state, Texas Parks and Wildlife spokesperson Lerrin Johnson confirmed the El Paso cases were found in the 79905 ZIP code. The area lies between the border and Interstate 10, spanning just west of the Chamizal National Memorial on the Southside down to Ascarate Park in the Lower Valley.

The wild birds were an unknown goose and a red-tailed hawk collected in late November. A private, non-government group or person submitted the dying or dead birds, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

It’s unclear why the birds were in captivity or how they were found. Johnson said Texas Parks and Wildlife does not have any more information. Neither USDA nor the city of El Paso provided further details about those specific cases.

Nearly 400 wild birds have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, in Texas since 2022, according to USDA data Friday. The current outbreak has hit two commercial and 12 backyard poultry flocks in Texas, affecting about 1.9 million birds from those flocks, as well as 27 dairy cows.

How is El Paso responding to bird flu cases?

El Paso reported its first case of HPAI in 2022 in a captive Canada goose.

City spokesperson Soraya Ayub provided an email comment from city-county health authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza saying there are no confirmed cases of bird flu in humans in El Paso.

Ocaranza said in the email if a person is exposed, the health department would get in contact with them within 24 hours of receiving the report of human exposure to gather information and confirm exposure. The health department would advise that person to stay home and monitor for signs of bird flu for the next 10 days, which include fever, red eyes, cough and runny nose.

People who develop symptoms in that time frame should continue to isolate themselves at home and avoid contact with other people while the health department arranges testing, he said. People who do not develop any signs or symptoms are released from monitoring.

People who’ve been exposed, or suspect they’ve been exposed, to bird flu and begin developing signs should contact their health care provider, Ocaranza said.

HPAI is a viral disease that is endemic in wild bird populations and is causing outbreaks in poultry flocks and dairy cattle. There have also been sporadic infections in mammals, such as domestic cats and skunks.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the first multistate outbreak of bird flu in dairy cattle March 25, 2024, after veterinarians and farmers began investigating sick cows in the Texas Panhandle.

Shortly afterward, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the first human infected with bird flu, a person who was exposed to dairy cows in Texas. Animal-to-human transmission remains low, with no cases of human-to-human transmission reported, according to the CDC.

Only 64 human cases of bird flu have emerged from more than 13,400 people monitored after exposure since March 24, 2024, according to an online CDC tracker Friday.

The El Paso Department of Public Health did not respond to questions about how many people were monitored and tested after exposure to the recent bird flu cases in El Paso.

El Paso Matters reached out to the CDC, but beginning Jan. 21, the Trump administration instructed federal health agencies to pause all external communications, including health advisories and website updates. The CDC deferred El Paso Matters to other agencies.

State, city offer guidance on sick birds

The risk of HPAI infection is low in the general population, though poultry and dairy workers are at higher risk, Ocaranza said.

People should avoid contact with sick or dead birds. If contact cannot be avoided, they should wear personal protective equipment and practice good hygiene, such as washing hands and washing contaminated clothing with hot water, he continued.

Texas Parks and Wildlife is asking the public to not feed waterfowls in parks, and to take down bird feeders and bird baths because they allow birds to congregate and spread disease easily. The agency advises people to not handle sick or dead wildlife, or allow pets to consume any wild carcasses.

People who encounter a wild animal with signs of HPAI, listed online by USDA, should contact their local Texas Parks and Wildlife biologist. The emails and phone numbers of El Paso’s state wildlife biologists are listed online.