Waco Celebrates 175th Anniversary
March 2024 to March 2025 marks the 175th anniversary of Waco, Texas. Waco was established in 1849 on land under the care of land agent, Jacob de Cordova. Waco’s name was selected to reflect the indigenous Waco, or Wí:ko:ʔ, tribe that had previously settled the area. Their name lives on, chosen to honor their legacy and connection to the area.
The 175th anniversary is an appropriate time to reflect and tell the stories of our richly diverse history and recognize and honor the strength and resilience of our people. Join us in celebrating all year long, honoring and acknowledging our City’s history.
Waco City Council Unveils New Flag
On Tuesday, Feb. 20, Waco City Council adopted and unveiled a new flag design replacing the previous suspension bridge design. The new design incorporates the core principles of good flag design, which includes simple and bold symbolism with a few basic colors.
The new design incorporates our Waco-branded blues, the Brazos and Bosque Rivers in the blue parallel lines, and the Flying W, a symbol of Waco's identity. We’re excited to proudly wave the new City of Waco flag in our community for years to come.
Waco Police Chief Shares Message on Recent Violent Incidents
We encourage you to watch a message from Chief of Police Sheryl Victorian regarding three isolated violent incidents that occurred last week that lead to two injuries and three fatalities. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims' families and friends. Investigations are ongoing, and one arrest has been made.
Waco remains a safe city overall. However, we need your help to keep it that way. If you have any information regarding these crimes, please contact Waco Crime Stoppers at (254) 753-4357. Your identity will remain anonymous.
Together, we can keep Waco a safe and thriving community.
Register for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day
Spring cleaning is here! On Saturday, March 23, City of Waco Solid Waste Services is hosting the annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Date from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Solid Waste Operations Center, 501 Schroeder Drive. The multi-city event is a FREE and easy way to dispose your household chemicals and dangerous waste. To pre-register and learn more about accepted materials, visit waco-texas.com/hhwd.
City of Waco Housing & Community Development invites qualified organizations to submit applications to receive funding from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME). Both federal grant programs support several programs and activities in Waco that benefit low- and moderate-income residents.
Applications will be accepted from March 4 to April 4. To apply, visit waco-texas.com/subrecipients. Need help? Contact our staff at (254) 750-5656.
Congrats to the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District! The Texas Association of City & County Health Officials (TACCHO) named the Waco Health District the 2023-2024 Health Department of the Year. The Health District was recognized for their public health practices in disease prevention and the promotion and protection of health for McLennan County residents.
Our City of Waco Annual Report is now available! 2023 was a year of great accomplishments all made possible by our City Council, hardworking City staff, dedicated partners, and our incredible residents. This report includes a financial summary, Waco-area statistics, and snapshots of accomplishments from our city departments as they relate to our strategic goals set forth by Waco City Council.
The City of Waco received 355 responses in a recent survey, sharing their priorities for the next leader of the Waco Fire Department. The City is partnering with SGR, a recruitment firm, to help with a nationwide search. This survey was a major part of selecting the next fire chief who aligns with the residents' values and expectations. We are confident this comprehensive search will lead to an exceptional leader for our fire department.
Daylight Saving Time starts at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 10. Remember to move your clocks forward one hour. The Waco Fire Department also reminds residents that this is a great time to change the smoke alarm batteries in your home and test your smoke alarm. About two-thirds of residential fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms.
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