Free Republic

School finance issue at root of Jones challenge BY ELLIOTT BLACKBURN AVALANCHE-JOURNAL Challengers are assailing one local incumbent for his support of several bills last legislative session, but it is one issue in particular that has the veteran legislator on the chopping block, according to political observers throughout the state. State Rep. Delwin Jones, R-Lubbock, broke ranks last year to vote against a tax bill changing the school finance structure. The bill was supported by the rest of the Lubbock legislative delegation and most Republicans. He voted in support of a Democratic alternative to the bill. That sealed it for...

Racial sparks fly at council meeting By JOHN FUQUAY AVALANCHE-JOURNAL Lubbock City Councilman Frank Morrison was jeered during a council meeting Thursday after telling members of the audience he was outraged by their criticism of the council's efforts to hire a new city manager. Eleven speakers rebuked the council, and many said they believe race was a factor in the council's decision to reject two minority finalists for city manager, including former Interim City Manager Tommy Gonzalez. Council members sat silently until Morrison asked to speak at the end of the session. He said he had felt a number of...