Big Spring Issues

Whiskers & Tails is bringing affordable spay and neuter services to Big Spring while tackling the growing stray animal problem through education, outreach, and community support.KEY TALKING POINTSWhiskers & Tails officially expands into Big SpringLow-cost spay and neuter services for dogs and catsTrap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for feral catsNew clinic operating multiple days per monthCommunity funds available to help pet owners in needThe realities of pet overpopulation in West TexasWhy shelters struggle with stray animal intakeImportance of vaccinations and microchippingSporting clay fundraiser and Grinch Fest community eventsThe emotional toll animal advocates face dailyEvery 90 seconds, a shelter animal is euthanized in AmericaWhy responsible pet ownership matters

Big Spring is in the middle of a transformation—and most people don’t realize how big it is.In this episode, Airport Director Mike Feeley breaks down the massive developments happening at the Big Spring Airpark, from a $16 million private investment by Galaxy to a newly approved FAA military airport program that could inject another $16 million into infrastructure. We’re talking new hangars, upgraded taxiways, expanded aircraft capacity, and over 300 acres of newly usable land.But this isn’t just about planes—it’s about economic growth. With new infrastructure, rail access, interstate connectivity, and a multimodal master plan in the works, Big Spring is positioning itself as a serious contender for major distribution centers and industrial expansion.If you’ve driven past the airport recently and noticed the changes, this episode explains what’s happening—and why it could impact jobs, business, and the future of the entire community.KEY TALKING POINTSGalaxy has taken over airport fueling operations and committed to a $16M development plan$1.6M in renovations already underway on existing hangarsNew corporate hangar planned with 28-foot doors (~$3M investment)FAA selected Big Spring for the Military Airport Program (major funding boost)~$16M in FAA-funded projects approved (taxiway + apron expansion)New infrastructure unlocks 300+ acres for aeronautical and industrial developmentAirport maintains C3 designation (can support Boeing 737-class aircraft)Multimodal master plan combining air, rail, and trucking logisticsTargeting major distribution centers (Amazon, DHL, H-E-B potential)Over 1,500 acres available for industrial development around the airportNew sewer, water, and fire infrastructure being installed across the west sideCommunity improvements: walking trail, first responder gym, event space upgradesAirport evolving into both an economic engine and community hub

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson sits down with Steve “Bodie” Bodenheimer, local Culligan manager and chairman of the Air Park Advisory Board, for an in-depth conversation about economic development and community growth in Big Spring. They discuss recent changes at Culligan, including new ownership and a renewed focus on local involvement, as well as the importance of strong community partnerships in driving progress.The conversation then shifts to one of the most exciting developments in the region—the Big Spring Air Park. Bodie and Scott break down ongoing projects, including runway expansions, new infrastructure, and the arrival of Galaxy FBO. They also explore the long-term vision for the air park as a major hub for transportation, logistics, and industrial growth, highlighting its strategic location with access to rail, interstate highways, and air travel. With new leadership and momentum building, the episode emphasizes why now may be a pivotal moment for Big Spring’s future.Key Discussion Points: • Culligan’s new ownership and increased commitment to community engagement • Major upgrades and new activity at the Big Spring Air Park, including Galaxy FBO • Expansion plans: runway improvements, infrastructure, and available development land • The multimodal master plan connecting air, rail, and interstate systems • Why local leadership and collaboration are key to Big Spring’s economic growth

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson welcomes Susan Sankey, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Big Spring Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Just days into her role, Susan shares her background, her early impressions of the community, and her vision for positioning Big Spring for long-term prosperity.The conversation explores how the EDC supports both small businesses and large-scale industrial projects, emphasizing collaboration, removing barriers, and creating opportunities for job growth and investment. Susan and Scott also break down how the EDC is funded, the difference between Type A and Type B economic development models, and how strategic investments today can shape the future of the community.Listeners will also get an inside look at one of Big Spring’s biggest assets—the air park and industrial corridor—and how its multi-modal capabilities (rail, air, and highway) could attract new businesses and drive regional growth. This episode highlights the importance of community involvement, leadership alignment, and forward-thinking strategy in building a stronger Big Spring.Key Discussion Points: • Introduction of Susan Sankey as the new EDC Director • How the EDC supports business development and removes barriers • Differences between Type A and Type B economic development corporations • The economic potential of the Big Spring air park and industrial assets • The importance of collaboration and community input in future growth

n this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson sits down with Howard County Chief Appraiser Julie Duke to break down one of the most confusing—and often frustrating—topics for local residents: property taxes. With tax season approaching, Julie explains how property values are determined, what has changed at the appraisal district, and how the process impacts homeowners, renters, and businesses across Big Spring.The conversation highlights a major cultural shift inside the appraisal office, focusing on transparency, accessibility, and taxpayer education. Listeners will learn how to protest their property value, what rights they have during the process, and why communication with the appraisal district can lead to better outcomes without needing formal hearings.From homestead exemptions and mineral valuations to the broader impact of state policies and local tax rates, this episode provides practical, easy-to-understand insight into how property taxes really work—and what residents can do to stay informed and engaged.Key Discussion Points: • How property values are determined and why they change • The protest process and how informal meetings can resolve disputes • New homestead exemption rules and potential tax refunds • The impact of declining oil and mineral values on local taxes • Why community involvement matters in setting tax rates

In this episode of Big Spring Issues, host Scott Emerson sits down to discuss an ambitious and meaningful project—the development of the West Texas Veterans Memorial. As Vice President of the initiative, Luis shares the vision behind creating a space that honors veterans from all service eras, not just Vietnam, and how the memorial will serve as a lasting tribute for generations across Big Spring and surrounding counties.The conversation also dives into the history and current state of the existing Vietnam Memorial, the challenges faced in preserving it, and the community-driven efforts to improve and protect it. Listeners will hear how the new memorial aims to complement—not replace—the original site while expanding recognition to all who have served.From fundraising events and volunteer opportunities to calls for community involvement, this episode highlights how local leadership and citizen participation are shaping a project that reflects pride, remembrance, and unity in West Texas.Key Discussion Points: • The vision and purpose behind the new West Texas Veterans Memorial • Preserving and improving the existing Vietnam Memorial site • Expanding recognition to veterans from all service eras and conflicts • Opportunities for community involvement, volunteers, and board membership • Upcoming fundraising efforts, including a community golf tournament