Good morning, Odessa.

West Texas oil and gas producers face challenges in converting excess natural gas into power for AI data centers because existing pipelines—transporting up to 6.5 billion cubic feet a day—are not sufficient, and new gas plants are still needed.

Experts say that faster federal permitting and planned investments in high voltage transmission lines under the Permian Basin Reliability Plan will help boost the region’s energy output in the future.

Residents in Ector County can take a five-minute survey to share feedback on designing the new courthouse, parking garage — and civic park at 200 North Texas Avenue in Odessa.

Design and construction will begin in the coming months with completion planned by the end of 2029.

The City of Odessa adopted a new property tax rate that will cost homeowners an extra $0.37 each month—just a small increase from last year.

The Odessa City Council voted last week to raise the property tax rate from 46.6 cents to 47 cents per $100 and the decision was made official on September 23rd—this change will add $6.2 million to fund fire, police, and road services.

After Tuesday’s commissioners meeting, Ector County set its tax rate at just under $0.44 per $100 valuation but property taxes still increased—County Judge Dustin Fawcett said budget cuts such as reducing precinct 4 constable deputies and their vehicles helped lower the rise.

Permian will host Cajon at Ratliff Stadium on Friday at 7 p.m. for its Homecoming contest—its first game against a California school since a 47-14 win in 2019.

Mr. Gnome Concert

2:00 – 9:30 PM — Ector County Library — Cost info not provided — Experience the vibrant sounds of Mr. Gnome with special guests The Talking Hours.

Paula DeAnda & Amanda Perez Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Ector Theatre — Cost TBD — Experience a memorable night of music with Paula DeAnda and Amanda Perez.

Energy City Race

12 PM — Fasken Oil and Ranch, ltd. — Entry fees vary — Celebrate 11 years of running excitement at this popular half marathon and more in West Texas.