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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.