Wise County has scheduled the final debris pickup for Unit 5 residents on Wednesday, May 20. Residents are encouraged to make sure all remaining storm debris is placed at the curb before pickup day. County crews will only be able to collect debris that is already curbside within Unit 5. To help crews work as efficiently as possible, debris should be separated into three distinct piles: * Appliances * Lumber / construction debris * Brush / tree limbs Properly sorting materials helps ensure debris can be collected safely and efficiently. As cleanup and recovery efforts continue across Runaway Bay, we appreciate everyone doing their part to help move the community forward. 💙

The Runaway Bay City Council will hold a Regular Session meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Norma Coble Civic Center, located at 51 Runaway Bay Drive. Several important items are scheduled for discussion, including certification of the May 2 General Election results and the Oath of Office for newly elected Mayor and Council Members. Agenda Highlights Certification of the May 2, 2026 General Election Oath of Office for: Mayor Herman White Council Member Richard Griffin Council Member Phill Reickenecker Approval of April meeting minutes April financial and accounts payable reports Consideration of Ordinance No. 641 regarding Mayor’s Duties Updates from the Mayor, Council Members, and City Staff Residents wishing to speak during Public Forum will be limited to 3 minutes each. 📍 Meeting Location:Norma Coble Civic Center51 Runaway Bay DriveRunaway Bay, Texas Community members are encouraged to attend and stay informed on local projects, operations, and city business. The complete agenda is below.

Residents should prepare for upcoming traffic impacts as TXDOT begins a major pavement rehabilitation project along Highway 380 through Runaway Bay and toward Bridgeport. The TXDOT project will begin near Hastings Drive and continue east past the bridge toward Bridgeport. Construction will move in approximately one-mile sections at a time, with crews starting near Hastings Drive and progressing eastward as work is completed. Advance warning signs are expected to begin appearing during the week of May 18, with active construction currently anticipated to begin around May 26. Drivers should expect: Temporary stop lights and traffic control devices Lane closures and reduced traffic flow Delays of approximately 10 minutes during active work zones Construction activity shifting as sections are completed While the project is expected to last several months, TXDOT noted timelines may shift depending on weather and construction conditions. TXDOT also advised that no work is currently planned on the bridge itself as part of this pavement rehabilitation project. The City of Runaway Bay will continue sharing updates as additional information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to plan for extra travel time and use caution in all construction areas.

Residents impacted by the recent storms may be eligible for assistance through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Recovery program. SBA representatives are currently available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Runaway Bay Event Center, located at 513 Port O Call, to assist homeowners and renters throughout Wise County with disaster loan applications and answer questions about available recovery programs. The Supply & Food Pantry is also currently operating at this location. Please note the pantry and supply distribution center will permanently close Friday at 6:00 PM. Potential Assistance Includes: Up to $500,000 for damage to a primary residence Up to $100,000 for personal property losses, including vehicles Low fixed interest rates Repayment terms up to 30 years No payments and no interest accrued during the first year Assistance may be available for wind and hail damage, not just tornado-related damages Eligible expenses may include roofing deductibles, vehicle deductibles, hail damage, interior/exterior home repairs, and personal property losses such as clothing, lawn equipment, and sheds Qualified applicants may prepay loans during the first year without incurring interest costs Interest rates for private individuals are currently as low as 2.875% Unused approved funds may be returned, and repayment applies only to the amount actually used Residents do not need to wait for insurance claims to be finalized before beginning the SBA application process. For qualified applicants, SBA disaster loans currently offer no payments and no interest accrued during the first year. Residents approved for more funding than ultimately needed may also return unused portions of approved funds. Items Typically Needed to Apply: Government-issued ID Recent federal income tax return Contact information Financial information Insurance information, if available For additional information or to begin an application online, visit:SBA Disaster Assistance Program Please help share this information with neighbors and community members who may still be in need of assistance during recovery efforts.

The City of Runaway Bay will be conducting pothole repair work this afternoon on Shady Oaks Drive near the Shady Court intersection. Work is expected to take place between approximately 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Residents traveling through the area are encouraged to slow down, remain alert, and use extra caution around crews and equipment. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as the city continues ongoing street maintenance efforts throughout Runaway Bay.

Runaway Bay residents gathered at Cricket Ridge Park on Thursday, May 7, for a special National Day of Prayer event focused on faith, unity, encouragement, and community fellowship. The evening brought together local churches, community leaders, first responders, volunteers, musicians, families, and residents for prayer, worship music, and messages centered on hope and coming together as a community. Special appreciation goes to Lea Holt, whose vision, dedication, and countless hours of work helped organize and bring the event to life. Additional thanks go to the Bay Community Church, Just Jesus Church, volunteers and everyone who attended and supported the gathering. Full speeches, prayers, and performances from the evening are also available on the City of Runaway Bay YouTube channel.

WHAT RESIDENTS NEED TO KNOW Cleanup efforts are continuing across Runaway Bay as city crews, first responders and volunteers work to remove storm debris and assist residents in the aftermath of Saturday’s tornado. With the assistance of volunteers, debris is actively being picked up and transported to the Public Works facility as quickly as possible. There are already many volunteers out on the streets offering to help remove debris from residents’ private property and transport it to designated drop-off locations. If you still have storm debris, downed limbs, or need help with cleanup, please contact Runaway Bay Police Officer Chad Lanier immediately to be added to the assistance list: 📞 940-389-8772 Officer Lanier is coordinating assistance for: Storm debris cleanup Tree limb removal Hauling debris to designated drop-off locations Equipment donations or volunteer manpower The City is actively in recovery and cleanup mode, and help is still available. DEBRIS DROP-OFF LOCATIONS Residents may bring storm debris to the following designated locations: 📍 Public Works Parking Lot380 Hadaway(For tree limbs and brush debris) 📍 Building Material Disposal300 Block of Cactus Canyon(For construction debris/building materials) 📍 Roll-Off Dumpsters at Shell(For household debris and trash only) ❌ No brush❌ No building materials CITY CLEANUP EFFORTS UNDERWAY ADDITIONAL RESOURCES COMING NEXT WEEK Thanks to the assistance of Wise County Commissioner Colby Shawn, the City will be borrowing a wood chipper from the county next week. Wise County will also provide a roll-off dumpster for wood chippings at no cost to the City. These additional resources will help speed up debris removal and cleanup efforts across Runaway Bay. THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS A special thank you to: Top Notch Homes Ace Hardware Bridgeport Fire Department Arrowhead Roofing & Fencing Alphadox Completions …for stepping up and assisting with storm recovery efforts in Runaway Bay. Your generosity, equipment, manpower, and willingness to serve have made an immediate impact for our residents. We also want to thank the many volunteers, churches, businesses, first responders, neighboring agencies, and community members who have shown up in countless ways over the last several days. Together, we are stronger.Together, we will rebuild. 💙

EF-2 Tornado Strikes Runaway Bay | Recovery Efforts Continue On the night of Saturday, April 25, 2026, an EF-2 tornado touched down in the Runaway Bay area, leaving a path of destruction across our community. The National Weather Service has now confirmed the tornado had peak winds of approximately 135 mph. Aerial damage images courtesy of Matt Howerton, WFAA As daylight broke Sunday morning, emergency crews began gaining a clearer picture of the damage. At this time: One fatality has been confirmed. Our hearts and prayers are with that family during this incredibly difficult time. At least six individuals were treated or transported by Wise County EMS for storm-related injuries. More than 20 families have been displaced due to significant damage to homes. Major damage has been reported in areas near Cimmarron Trail and Jasper Creek Road. This remains an active emergency response scene, and everyone is asked to avoid the area to allow first responders and utility crews safe access. Over 64 utility poles were reported down, causing widespread power outages and access issues. Emergency responders worked throughout the night and continue to work around the clock to clear debris, restore access, and assist residents in need. The Mayor and the entire City Council are working as a team to develop and implement a coordinated, comprehensive response. City leadership is prioritizing recovery efforts, streamlining permitting for repairs, exploring all available state and federal resources, and planning for long-term rebuilding. Aerial damage images courtesy of Matt Howerton, WFAA Unified Emergency Response The City of Runaway Bay, in close coordination with Wise County and numerous volunteer organizations, mobilized quickly to provide immediate assistance. Teams are working to clear debris, assess damage, offer temporary shelter, distribute essential supplies, and ensure those in need receive food, water, and medical support. A Unified Command structure was quickly established to coordinate response efforts among: Wise County officials City of Runaway Bay leadership Fire departments and EMS agencies Law enforcement Utility providers Texas Division of Emergency Management Texas Task Force 2 American Red Cross and other support teams Texas Task Force 2 has assisted with organized search and rescue efforts, while the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s Damage Assessment Team is helping verify impacts across the community. The National Weather Service was also on-site Sunday morning surveying damage to confirm storm intensity and track the tornado’s path. Disaster Declaration Issued Wise County Judge J.D. Clark has issued a Local Disaster Declaration for Wise County, allowing access to additional state and federal recovery resources. This declaration helps expedite emergency response operations and opens pathways for relief programs and funding. Image courtesy of NBC News How Residents Can Help Recovery Efforts Residents with damage to homes or businesses are encouraged to complete the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) survey. These self-reported surveys help local and state officials understand the extent of damage and connect impacted Texans with available recovery resources. iSTAT surveys are available in English and Spanish here:damage.tdem.texas.gov Relief Resources In the immediate aftermath of the storm, a Reunification Center was opened at the Runaway Bay Event Center to assist residents and reconnect families. That center has since been decommissioned once families were reunited. The Runaway Bay Event Center continues to serve as a resource hub for storm-affected residents. Relief efforts have included: Free hot meals provided by Texans on Mission Food, toiletries, and basic supplies for affected residents Assistance for first responders and utility crews working extended hours Volunteer & Donation Information How You Can Help Many residents have reached out asking how they can support those affected by the storm. The United Way of Wise County is now accepting disaster relief donations for western Wise County, with every dollar staying local to help impacted families recover. Residents who wish to contribute can scan the QR code on the donation flyer or DONATE HERE Follow updates from the Wise County Office of Emergency Management for official donation and assistance opportunities. Juan Madrid lost his life in the tornado on Saturday night. A donation fund for his family has been set up through Acts 4 Others, a legitimate local non-profit, so the funds are ensured to go to the family. If it’s on your heart to donate, please visit the link below. DONATE HERE As additional needs are identified, more opportunities to volunteer, donate supplies, or provide support may be announced through official City and County channels. A Community Responding Together Local volunteers, faith-based groups, charitable organizations, first responders, utility workers, and partner agencies have stepped up in remarkable ways. Delivering aid, opening their doors, offering comfort, and working tirelessly through the night and into the days following this disaster. We also want to recognize the many residents who have stepped up. Checking on neighbors, offering shelter, donating supplies, sharing critical information, and asking how they can help. If you or someone you know has been impacted by the storm and needs assistance, please reach out through the Runaway Bay Bulletin, the City of Runaway Bay Facebook page, or by calling City Hall at (940) 575-4745. As additional needs are identified, more opportunities to volunteer, donate supplies, or provide support may be announced through official City and County channels. Our goal is clear: to support every affected family as quickly and effectively as possible while keeping our community safe and informed every step of the way. Runaway Bay is a resilient community, and with the continued partnership of Wise County, our dedicated volunteers, and the strength of our neighbors, we will rebuild stronger than before. Runaway Bay is strong, and together, we will recover. Additional Coverage: https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/runaway-bay-death/4015673/

YouTube Video of April City Council Meeting The Runaway Bay City Council met in regular session on April 15 at the Norma Coble Civic Center. Here’s a breakdown of what was discussed: Public Forum Janice Shipman: Expressed her gratitude to the City and spoke about negativity online. She shared when she moved to Runaway Bay four years ago, Mayor Herman White personally welcomed her and encouraged her to reach out if she ever needed anything. She later contacted him regarding a sinkhole concern, and he connected her with Police Chief Steve Reynolds. Staff responded to assess the issue, and the sinkhole was repaired. She also noted attending Boards meeting, describing them as productive but low in attendance.  She thanked the Mayor and City Council for their continued efforts in moving Runaway Bay forward. Gaby: Spoke about a recent senior event and the recent Meals on Wheels Gala, which raised approximately $140,000. She thanked Martha Holmes and Linda White for their involvement and support. Grant Gardner: Announced a May 30 “Hometown Heroes” event honoring local first responders. He shared that organizers are currently seeking donations and giveaway items. The event flyer is below for more details. He also requested that the cost of water taps, similar to those in Bridgeport, be considered for a future agenda and shared online. Pansy Green: Thanked the City Council and referenced the recent EDC meeting, noting that the City is not responsible for the current situation involving the golf course and did not cause its closure. Ken Kilpatrick: Shared that he is running for school board and spoke about how excellent Bridgeport ISD was and would like to see it return to its previous standards. He noted that the district is currently facing challenges and raised concerns about students and teachers leaving the district. Consent Items A.   March 17, 2026 Minutes – APPROVED Consideration and Action Items A.   March 31, 2026 Accounts Payable Report – ACCEPTED B.    March 2026 Financial Report – ACCEPTED C.    Liberto Ballfield Drainage – APPROVED - Council approved a proposal from the Parks Board to move forward with drainage improvements at the Michael Liberto Ballfield. The project will address ongoing flooding issues, particularly in the right field area extending toward first base, the dugout, and bleachers. A survey confirmed that elevation is a contributing factor, and an engineered plan will be developed to correct it. Importantly, no City funds will be used for this phase, with funding coming from existing donation funds and the Parks Board budget. As part of this phase, the existing park sign - along with the two crepe myrtles - will be relocated closer to the park entrance. Its current position behind home plate places it within an active play area near the bleachers, making it less than ideal for both safety and visibility. While the brick structure will require significant effort to move, the relocation will improve both function and field layout. Future considerations include a sprinkler system, potential additional field space, and other park enhancements. The Park sign and crepe myrtles to be relocated at Michael Liberto Ballfield D.   Runaway Bay Lease Amendment and Extension Agreement (Bay Community Church) - APPROVED - Council approved an amendment and extension to the existing lease agreement between the City of Runaway Bay and Bay Community Church. The agreement, which was previously discussed, includes a long-term lease extension and outlines continued coordination between the City and the Church. The lease term extends through April 15, 2125, with a nominal lease amount of $1 per year. E.    Public Works Quarterly Report – Roddy Boston & Ryan Halligan All Results in Normal Range Public Works Update – Regulatory Coordination During the update, Mr. Boston shared that he recently met with an investigator from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regarding ongoing reporting activity. The investigator noted that the agency has received a high volume of reports related to incidents that had already been formally reported by the City, including the Jim Walters lift station overflow that occurred approximately six weeks ago. Due to the volume of duplicate reports, TCEQ is currently working through a backlog of cases across the area. Mr. Boston also emphasized his commitment to regulatory compliance, noting that all required incidents are reported in accordance with state guidelines. He stated that he takes his responsibilities seriously and would not risk his professional standing, certifications, or legal obligations by failing to properly report an incident. Residents are always encouraged to report concerns they observe. However, for the most up-to-date and accurate information, residents may also contact City Hall directly to confirm whether an issue has already been reported or is actively being addressed. This helps ensure clear communication between the City and regulatory agencies to respond as efficiently as possible. The Mayor also noted that four years ago, the City had 38 infractions with TCEQ, representing an estimated $80,000 to $90,000 in potential fines. He shared that under Mr. Boston, the City has resolved the vast majority of those infractions. The remaining items - approximately five - require larger infrastructure improvements, which are already being addressed through secured grant funding and ongoing engineering efforts. During discussion, Council Member Christopher Petty raised questions about the weight of manhole lids and rings, inquiring whether stormwater alone would be capable of displacing them. Mr. Boston stated they typically weigh approximately 100 pounds. Based on observations by Public Works staff, there have been instances where conditions around certain manholes did not appear consistent with natural causes. In some cases, lids or rings were found displaced from their proper position and located nearby, along with debris such as logs and wood materials inside the structures. It was also noted that at the Jim Walters lift station, a wrench was discovered lodged inside a pump valued at approximately $60,000. While no conclusions were formally stated, these findings have raised concerns about potential tampering with City infrastructure. Residents are reminded that entering or interfering with manholes, lift stations, or other utility infrastructure is strictly prohibited. Such actions may be considered criminal mischief and tampering with public infrastructure, and can create serious safety risks for both the public and City personnel.   Updates from Mayor and Council Members Richard Griffin (EDC): Shared that the EDC is recommending funding for pothole repairs, with an estimated cost of $6,900. The plan would involve hiring a contractor to professionally repair major potholes while allowing city crews to observe and learn the process for future maintenance. Carolyn Moody (Cemetery): Provided an update from the Cemetery Board and noted a partnership with the Bridgeport Garden Club. Christopher Petty (Fire Department): Reported 23 medical calls and 1 fire response. Steve Reynolds (Police Department): Officer Rob Powell presented the department’s monthly activity report. Officers logged approximately 3,800 miles and responded to around 300 calls for assist. This included 75 citations, 90 warnings, 30 assists, approximately 1,200 security checks, 1 felony arrest, and 1 crash. Steve Holt (GRBA) : Shared that a recent community trash pickup resulted in 34 bags of trash collected, with Rob and Cindy Fuller contributing 20 bags the day before the pickup. Mr. Holt expressed his gratitude to the Fullers for their all their hard work. He also highlighted several upcoming community events: May 1: Yard of the Month Awards May 5 (11:30 AM – 4:30 PM): Carter BloodCare Blood Drive at the Norma Coble Civic Center May 30 (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Hometown Heroes Celebration at Cricket Ridge Park June 20: Next community trash pickup event   Mayor Herman White: Spoke about the importance of the Police Department and the role they play in protecting the community. He also highlighted the recent North Central Texas Sheriff’s Coalition meeting, which included the Governor, state representatives, and sheriffs from 24 counties. He noted that the coalition provides smaller rural communities a stronger, more unified voice when communicating with state leadership in Austin. Mayor White described the opportunity as humbling and recognized regional leaders in attendance, including Shelley Luther, Andy Hopper, David Spiller and Andrew Lloyd. He also mentioned the recent Wise County Sheriff’s awards banquet held last Friday. Additionally, he shared that the City is actively working on securing additional grant funding, with several million dollars in opportunities currently in process. He also referenced ongoing long-term planning efforts, including a 5-, 10-, and 15-year master plan for the City.

If you’ve been wondering what’s been happening out at Jim Walters Road - there’s been a lot of progress. What started as a major washout is now well into the rebuilding phase. Crews have been steadily working on the new bridge structure, with the beams now in place and the bridge deck installed. Up next, crews are planning to pour concrete, weather permitting. Once that step is complete, the concrete will need about 30 days to properly cure before the bridge can handle regular traffic. While that curing process is underway, additional work will continue on the roadway leading up to the bridge, along with guardrail installation to finish things out. This project has been a strong partnership between the City of Runaway Bay and Wise County, and we appreciate the continued support from Colby Shawn throughout the process. At this time, reopening is estimated to be about 5 to 6 weeks, depending on weather and construction conditions. We’ll continue to share updates as work moves forward.

The Runaway Bay City Council will hold its next Regular Session on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Norma Coble Civic Center. ⚠️ Please note: This meeting date differs from the typical third Tuesday schedule due to early voting. Meeting Details Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: Norma Coble Civic Center, 51 Runaway Bay Dr. Agenda Highlights Approval of March 17, 2026 meeting minutes Review of accounts payable and March financial report Parks Board Proposal: Drainage improvements at Michael Liberto Ballfield Lease Agreement: Consideration of amendment and extension with Bay Community Church Quarterly report from Public Works Task Force member Roddy Boston Updates from the Mayor and City Council Public Forum Participation Residents who wish to speak may do so during the Public Forum portion of the meeting. Speakers are limited to 3 minutes each Sign-up is available 5-10 minuets prior to the meeting This is an opportunity for residents to share comments, concerns, or feedback with City Council We encourage all residents to attend, stay informed, and take part in the civic process.

The Greater Runaway Bay Alliance (GRBA) is kicking off the season with several opportunities for residents to get involved, give back, and celebrate our community. Thanks to continued support from members and volunteers, GRBA is able to host events that bring neighbors together and make a positive impact across Runaway Bay. Hwy 380 Trash Clean-Up Saturday, April 11 | 9:00 AM 📍 Norma Coble Civic Center Parking Lot Volunteers are needed to help keep Highway 380 clean and prevent debris from entering our community. Safety vests, grabbers, and trash bags provided Sections take less than 1 hour to complete Golf carts recommended (but not required) Transportation assistance available if needed Community service hours available for students and adults Yard of the Month (May–September) Beginning in May, volunteer judges will recognize standout properties throughout Runaway Bay. Residents may: Submit their own yard Recommend a neighbor Email nominations to: grbatx@gmail.com Community Blood Drive Tuesday, May 5 | 11:30 AM – 4:30 PM 📍 Norma Coble Civic Center GRBA is partnering with Carter BloodCare to host a community blood drive. Appointments available through Carolyn Dent (940-399-9333) or online Updated eligibility guidelines may allow new donors to participate Donors will receive a complimentary beach towel (while supplies last) Help save lives by donating blood. Hometown Hero Celebration Saturday, May 30 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM 📍 Cricket Ridge Park A new community event honoring the men and women who serve Runaway Bay as first responders. This family-friendly celebration will include: BBQ dinner (while supplies last) Bounce house and yard games Music and community fellowship Snow cone truck available for purchase Open to all community members, with special recognition for: Police, Fire, EMS, and Sheriff personnel who live in or serve Runaway Bay. Donations Needed: GRBA is currently seeking donations to support this event, including food items, supplies, and contributions for goody bags. To donate or participate: grbatx@gmail.com Get Involved These events are made possible through volunteers and community support. Whether you’re donating your time, nominating a neighbor, or attending an event your involvement helps strengthen Runaway Bay.