History - Page 30
This quarter’s Sentinel highlights new development, upcoming community events, infrastructure investments, and the people who keep Sanger running every day.
• What’s under construction and what’s coming soon
• Key election dates
• Major Parks & Recreation events
• Infrastructure improvements
• Local business and economic updates
As we welcome a new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on where we’ve been and share a look ahead at where we’re going as a community.
Over the past year, Sanger has continued to grow, not just in size, but in connection, collaboration, and pride. From city projects and infrastructure improvements to community events, public safety initiatives, and economic development efforts, our progress has been driven by one constant: the people who call Sanger home. Each month brought new challenges and opportunities, and through it all, the strength of this community remained evident.
I’m incredibly grateful for the dedication of our city staff, first responders, volunteers, business owners, and residents who consistently show up for one another. Their commitment, professionalism, and care for this community make a real difference every day. Whether it’s supporting local events, engaging in civic conversations, or simply lending a hand to a neighbor, that sense of community is what truly sets Sanger apart.
As we step into the new year, our focus remains clear. We will continue working to maintain reliable city services, plan responsibly for growth, invest in infrastructure, and foster opportunities that support both families and businesses. We are committed to thoughtful planning that preserves the character of Sanger while positioning our city for long-term success.
Equally important is our commitment to communication and transparency. We
will continue sharing updates, listening to feedback, and encouraging community involvement so residents feel informed, heard, and connected to the work being done on their behalf.
A new year brings fresh opportunities, renewed energy, and a chance to build on the strong foundation already in place. I’m excited about what lies ahead for Sanger and confident that, by working together, we will continue creating a community that values its roots while preparing thoughtfully for the future.
Thank you for your continued trust, support, and engagement. I wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and successful New Year.
Sincerely,
John Noblitt City Manager City of Sanger
Click here to listen to the latest message from the City Manager.
7 pm
The 1st and 3rd Monday of each month
Sanger Historical Church
403 N 7th Street
Sanger, TX 76266
6 pm (before regular meetings)
The 1st and 3rd Monday of each month
Sanger Historical Church
403 N 7th Street
Sanger, TX 76266
Work sessions are open to the public and citizens are encouraged to attend. Most of the discussion and deliberation takes place during the work session with formal action taking place at the regular meeting.
Agendas & Minutes
Agendas are available prior to meetings. Minutes are available following approval.
View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes | View Archived Agendas and Minutes
The City of Sanger values transparency. Earlier this year, the Council voted to record council meetings. View recorded sessions here.
City Hall Address
502 Elm Street
Sanger, TX 76266
Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM M-TH 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM F
Phone: 940-458-7930
Online: Sangertexas.org
Facebook: @SangerTexas
Did you know that Sanger has many ways to stay connected to what is happening in the City? Below, we feature all the ways to keep you connected.
Websites
Sangertexas.org
DiscoverSanger.com (City Tourism Site) Sangertxedc.org (Sanger Economic Development)
The City of Sanger launched the official podcast of Sanger, TX, The 266 Express.
Listen Here!
City Government Social Media
City of Sanger TX
Sanger Texas
Sanger Economic Development
City of Sanger TX
Sanger Texas
Department Social Media
Sanger, TX Parks and Recreation
Sanger Police Department
City of Sanger Texas Fire Department
Contact Number: 940-458-7930
EMAIL: utilitybilling@sangertexas.org
Start/Stop Utility Service
Click Here
Click Here for online utility payments
To report a water issue after hours, call: 940-299-5358
The City of Sanger provides water service to City residents. The City also provides electric services to some areas of the community. Please contact our Utility Customer Service to confirm your provider.
Trash and Recycling services are provided through Republic Services. To start or stop service, please contact the City of Sanger Utility Billing Department or visit us online at SangerTexas.org for more information.
Trash and recycling services in Sanger are provided by Republic Services and are billed by the City of Sanger monthly on your utility bills.
For missed collections or service issues, contact Republic Services at 972-316-0789
For billing questions, contact Sanger Customer Service in City Hall at :940-458-7930 or email utilitybilling@sangertexas.org
For more information, CLICK HERE.
For a list of frequently asked questions visit this site.
The City is proud to recognize Sergeant Brandon Buttram and Sergeant Reece Dunn on their recent graduation from the Texas Police Chiefs Association’s Law Enforcement Command Officer Program (LECOP), a prestigious leadership program designed for current and future leaders in Texas law enforcement.
LECOP was developed by the Texas Police Chiefs Association to provide high-level executive and command training for chiefs, commanders, supervisors, and emerging leaders. The program focuses on preparing law enforcement professionals to effectively lead and manage within their organizations while fostering a positive culture and strong organizational values.
To earn recognition as a Law Enforcement Command Officer Professional, participants complete a rigorous series of training courses centered on two key areas: Individual Leadership Skills and Organizational Leadership and Cultural Influence. Among these courses is the Developing Leaders program, which is now offered in three separate modules and emphasizes practical leadership tools that can be applied to real-world situations.
Classes within the LECOP program are open to law enforcement professionals from agencies across Texas and are intentionally designed to strengthen leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and decision-making at every level.
Sergeants Buttram and Dunn’s commitment to professional development reflects their dedication to serving our community with integrity, professionalism, and forwardthinking leadership. Their achievement not only represents personal growth but also strengthens the department as a whole, ensuring continued excellence in service to our residents.
Please join us in congratulating Sergeant Buttram and Sergeant Dunn on this impressive accomplishment.
The Sanger Police Department strives to be the best department we can and to that end, obtaining the best training available for department leadership and officers is of the utmost importance. Over the course of the last year plus, we have sent four of our supervisors through highly regarded, sought-after, and intensive leadership training. We would like to recognize and celebrate the accomplishment of those supervisors in completing these programs.
Texas Police Chiefs Association (TCPA) Law Enforcement Command Officer Program
TPCA’s Law Enforcement Command Officer Program (LECOP) was developed to provide the very best executive and command-level training for chiefs, commanders, supervisors, and future leaders in Texas law enforcement. The courses are designed to equip professionals to lead and manage throughout their organizations and recognize those individuals who work hard to prepare themselves for leadership opportunities. This is a 10-course program focused on two educational tracks: Personal Leadership Development and Organizational Health & Integrity. The awardees receive certificates numbered to indicate their chronological place among all officers statewide since the first certificate was issued in December 2021.
Sgt. Brandon Buttram #164 (12/2025)
Sgt. Reece Dunn #166 (12/2025)
The Institute of Law Enforcement Administration (ILEA) School of Police Supervision
This course is designed for first-line supervisors and middle-level management, which focuses on the professionalism of agency management teams. It is a four-week, learningintensive course for law enforcement leaders that recognizes the importance of supervision as a primary management function. The curriculum focuses on the transition from “street policing” to management, especially the social and personal adjustments.
Sgt. Reece Dunn – 146th School of Police Supervision (02/2025)
Sgt. Hubbel Richmond – 148th School of Police Supervision (10/2025)
The Institute of Law Enforcement Administration (ILEA) School of Executive Leadership
The School of Executive Leadership is an intensive eight-week program designed to prepare senior-level law enforcement managers and administrators for leadership in the complex world of public executives. The School of Executive Leadership provides a challenging and intensive environment in which participants can learn, develop, and test a range of success-oriented skills and abilities. The learning accomplished in this setting explores the most current leadership issues and is facilitated by a mix of seasoned law enforcement and academic practitioners.
Lt. Justin Lewis – 64th School of Executive Leadership (04/2025)
The Sanger Fire Department is proud to announce the promotion of Fire Fighter/Paramedic, Madison Pearse to the rank of Lieutenant, marking an exciting milestone in both his career and his continued service to the Sanger community.
Lieutenant Pearse has faithfully served the City of Sanger for nearly a decade, earning a reputation for dedication, professionalism, and a genuine heart for public service. Throughout his tenure as a Fire Fighter/Paramedic, Madison has consistently demonstrated sound decision-making under pressure, a compassionate approach to emergency care, and a steadfast commitment to teamwork. Whether responding to emergencies or supporting fellow firefighters, he has always been willing to step up when the call comes in.
In his new role as Lieutenant, Madison brings not only extensive field experience but also the leadership qualities that reflect the core values of the Sanger Fire Department. His integrity, strong work ethic, and positive attitude have earned him the respect and trust of his peers, making him a natural choice for this leadership position.
The Sanger Fire Department congratulates Lieutenant Pearse on this well-deserved promotion and thanks him for his continued dedication to protecting and serving the citizens of Sanger. We look forward to seeing his continued growth and leadership as he makes an even greater impact within the department and throughout our community.
As temperatures drop and families spend more time indoors, the risk of home fires increases, often due to heating equipment, cooking, and candles. Taking a few simple precautions can make a big difference in protecting your home and loved ones this winter.
Keep heating sources safe.
Space heaters should always be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including furniture, curtains, and bedding. Turn heaters off when leaving the room or going to sleep. Fireplaces, chimneys, and vents should be cleaned and inspected annually, and ovens or stovetops should never be used as a heat source.
Make sure smoke alarms are working.
Working smoke alarms save lives. Test your smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed. Ensure alarms are installed on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide alarms are also essential, especially in homes with fuel-burning appliances.
Use candles with caution.
Never leave candles unattended, and keep them away from flammable items, children, and pets. For a safer option, consider using battery-operated candles.
Practice safe cooking habits.
Cooking is a leading cause of home fires. Stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep flammable items away from the stovetop, and turn pot handles inward to help prevent spills and burns.
Have an escape plan.
Create and practice a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room and a designated meeting place outside. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to safely use a fire extinguisher.
By taking these simple steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of winter fires. Stay warm, stay alert, and stay safe this season.
Thank you,
Sanger Fire Department
New development brings additional services, dining, and shopping options closer to home while strengthening the City’s tax base. This growth helps support infrastructure improvements, public safety, and amenities, without placing additional burden on residents.
• Tom Thumb – completed and open
• Tom Thumb Fuel – plans approved
• Whataburger – plans approved
• Club Car Wash – plans approved
• 7 Brew Coffee – under construction
• AT&T – under construction
• Dorado Nail Bar – under construction
• Phase 1 – homes under construction
• Phase 5 – public improvements under construction
• Phase 3 & 7 – under review
• Phase 1 – homes under construction
• Phase 5 – public improvements under construction
• Phase 1-7 – Final Plats approved
• Under Construction
• Under Construction
Sanger Town Center
• Preliminary Plat in review
Victory at Sanger
• Final Plat in review
Whataburger – plans approved
Panda Express – plans approved
Tom Thumb Fuel Center – plans approved
Club Car Wash – plans approved
7 Brew Coffee – in construction
AT&T – in construction
Dorado Nail Bar – in construction
Additional updates on these projects will be shared in upcoming issues and through the City’s website and social channels.
The next City of Sanger General Election will be held on May 2, 2026, to elect a Mayor and two Councilmembers for Place 2, and Place 4 for a two-year term.
Polling location - Sanger Community Center – 101 Freese Street, Sanger, Texas 76262
• Last day to register to vote for the Municipal Election is April 2, 2026.
• Last day to Receive Application for Ballot by Mail – Monday, April 20th, 2026
• Last day to Receive FPCA – Monday, April 20th, 2026
For on-going information visit the City’s website – Election Information page at https://www.sangertexas.org/284/Election-Information
To check to see if you are registered to vote visit - votedenton.gov
Information regarding the Primary Election on March 3, 2026 can be found by visiting the County’s website - votedenton.gov
• Last day to Register to Vote – Monday, February 2, 2026
• Last day to Receive Application for Ballot by Mail – Friday, February 20, 2026
• Last day to Receive FPCA – Friday, February 20, 2026
parksandrecreation@sangertexas.org https://secure.rec1.com/TX/sanger-tx/catalog
Why this matters:
Parks, programs, and community events create spaces where residents can connect, stay active, and build lasting memories. These amenities support quality of life, community wellness, and opportunities for families of all ages to enjoy Sanger year-round.
MARCH14,2026AT8AM-11AM RAILROADPARK
such as bulky trash, vegetative debris and or old furniture.
Comedisposeofyourunwanteditems suchasbulkytrash,vegetativedebris andoroldfurniture.
Thisistheultimatesummercelebration whichfeaturestonsofexcitingactivities suchaswaterslides,carnivalrides,vendors, foodtrucksandaspectacularfireworkshow! Staytunedformoredetails!
MARCH28,2026AT9AM
Thisisafun-filledeventwherekidscan huntover10keggs.Thiseventalsofeatures facepainters,balloontwisters,artsand crafts,andphotoswiththeEasterBunny! Socomeonoutandjoinusforaspringtacularevent!
So come on out and join us for a springtacular event!
Thisparkincludesa3-field softballcomplex, concessionstands, restrooms,playground, pavilions.You’llalsofinda3acrestockedfishingpond withadock,anda1.5-mile concretewalkingtrail.
with a dock, and a 1 5 mile concrete walking trail.
$200DAILYRENTALFEE
$200CLEANINGDEPOSIT
Holdsupto75guestsandisequippedwith circle andrectangulartablesandchairsfor75people.
$400DAILYRENTALFEE
$750ENTIREWEEKEND
(12pmonFri-9pmonSun)
$300CleaningDeposit
Holdsupto175guestsandisequippedwith rectangulartablesandchairsfor50people.
$25DailySmallPavillion
$50DailyLargePavillion
Ifyouareinterestedinrentingthesespaces,please emailusatparksandrecreation@sangertexas.org
Infrastructure investments protect the essentials residents rely on every day, from safe roads and sidewalks to dependable water systems. Proactive planning today helps ensure Sanger can support future growth while maintaining reliability, safety, and long-term cost efficiency.
• Street segments improved in 2026
• Ongoing water system evaluations
• Planning underway for future capacity
• Regulatory reporting completed
The City has entered into an agreement with KSA Engineers, Inc. to conduct a comprehensive groundwater resource evaluation. This effort includes analyzing water storage capacity and pumping site modeling, along with the preparation of conceptual design documents to support future water infrastructure planning.
Meanwhile, Kimley-Horn continues progress on the Marion Road and Belz Road Rehabilitation Project. The project team is actively incorporating feedback received during the public meeting held on September 23, 2025, as they refine the project’s next steps and develop the go-forward plan.
In addition, staff is collaborating with Kimley-Horn on the development of SUMP repair packages, addressing street, utility, sewer, and sidewalk improvements across the community.
Work is also underway on several important water reporting requirements, including the Annual Consumer Confidence Report and the Annual Water Use Survey and Water Loss Audit submitted to the Texas Water Development Board.
Finally, as part of ongoing street maintenance efforts, ten concrete street panels were replaced on Baccarat Street, improving roadway conditions for residents.
Our commitment to upgrading infrastructure is vital for enhancing community wellbeing and economic strength in Sanger, TX.
• 3rd St. (Willow → Wayne)
• Austin St. (3rd → 5th)
• Church St. (2nd → 5th)
• Jackilu (2nd → 3rd)
• Locust St. (2nd → 3rd)
• Marshall (3rd → 5th)
• Wayne St. (3rd → 5th)
• Wood St. (2nd → 5th)
The Sanger Public Library continues to serve residents of all ages with free educational programs, family activities, and lifelong learning opportunities.
For a complete calendar of events for the quarter, visit the Sanger Public Library website at https://www.sangerlibrary.org/191/Calendar-Events
New Hires:
AJ Cartwright – Police Officer – Hired 10/2025
Alex Valderrama – Police Officer – Hired 10/2025
Justin Caffey – Firefighter/Paramedic – Hired 10/2025
Dawson Foster – Firefighter/Paramedic – Hired 12/2025
Rodney Martin – Building Inspector – Hired 10/2025
Elian Barocio – Streets Maintenance Worker I – Hired 11/2025
Anniversaries:
Angelica Tobias – October 16th – 1 year
Chris Kristufek – October 7th – 1 year
Christy Dyer – October 13th – 28 years
Cole Kirk – January 1st – 4 years
Danielle Stanford – November 27th – 2 years
Dean Mason – October 11th – 21 years
Donna Green – November 8th – 4 years
Jeff Nixon – October 1st – 11 years
Jeriana Staton-Hemb – November 14th – 9 years
John Henderson – October 20th – 31 years
Jorge Hernandez – January 3rd – 2 years
Josh Compton – January 6th – 1 year
Josh Green – January 31st – 26 years
Kylie Hackworth - November 25th – 1 year
Laura Klenke – November 19th – 16 years
Michael Gentle – October 28th – 1 year
Ramie Hammonds – January 3rd – 9 years
Ryan Nolting – December 13th – 4 years
Ryan Welborn – January 19th – 9 years
Sarah Phelps – November 6th – 2 years
Shelley Warner – October 4th – 2 years
Stefani Dodson – November 15th – 15 years
Sylvia Vega – December 7th – 5 years
Theresa Hammond – November 2nd – 2 years
Willie Wallenberg – January 15th – 2 years
Congratulations to Shani Bradshaw, Economic Development Director for the City of Sanger, on earning the prestigious Certified Texas Economic Developer (CTED) designation! This certification, awarded by the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) and Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), represents the highest level of professional achievement in Texas economic development. We’re so proud to see Shani recognized among this elite group of practitioners for her dedication, leadership, and continued commitment to Sanger’s growth and success!
The Sanger EDC is proud to announce that, Morgan Miller, Economic Development Coordinator, officially earned her Basic Economic Development Certification (BEDC) after completing more than 26 hours of training alongside 75 other professionals statewide. This certification strengthens Sanger EDC’s efforts to support local businesses, attract new development, and plan for long-term growth.
After 32 years of dedicated service, the City of Sanger extends its heartfelt congratulations to Ranell Wolf on her well-earned retirement. As the administrative assistant who truly held the department together, Ranell was the steady, behind-the-scenes force who kept everything running smoothly through countless projects, deadlines, and changes. Her institutional knowledge, unwavering commitment, and quiet leadership made a lasting impact on the City and everyone who had the privilege of working with her. Ranell’s legacy of service and excellence will be felt for years to come, and she will be sincerely missed.
Building Opportunity. Supporting Growth. Investing in Sanger’s Future.
As Sanger enters a new year, the community continues to build on strong economic momentum created throughout 2025. The past year marked a period of steady progress, meaningful investment, and strategic planning that is shaping Sanger’s long-term future.
Several milestones highlighted this growth, including the grand opening of Tom Thumb, which brought new jobs, expanded retail options, and added convenience for residents while reinforcing Sanger’s appeal as a strong and growing market. Workforce development also remained a key focus with the launch of the Sanger Workforce Achievement Grant (SWAG) program. This initiative supports career and technology education at Sanger High School and reflects the city’s commitment to preparing the next generation for local and regional employment opportunities.
Beyond these visible projects, ongoing efforts continued behind the scenes to support existing businesses, attract new investment, and advance development initiatives across the community. A significant step forward was the kickoff of the Sanger Economic Development Corporation’s first-ever Strategic Plan, which will help guide priorities, partnerships, and investments in the years ahead.
Looking to 2026, Sanger is seeing continued activity with new businesses, new neighborhoods, and expanding opportunities taking shape across the city. These efforts collectively strengthen Sanger’s position as a place where families, businesses, and investors can thrive, today and well into the future.
After four years of planning, coordination, and development, Tom Thumb has officially opened its doors in Sanger. This long-anticipated project represents a major milestone for the community and reflects the city’s continued growth and commitment to meeting the needs of its residents.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, December 11, celebrating the completion of the project alongside city leaders, project partners, and community members. The store welcomed its first customers on Friday, December 12. The new Tom Thumb location offers a full-swerve pharmacy and an on-site Starbucks, and a fuel center is also planned and will be coming soon.
IEconomic development focuses on attracting and supporting businesses that create jobs, expand services, and grow the local economy. These efforts help strengthen Sanger’s financial stability while supporting opportunities for residents, entrepreneurs, and future generations.
• All businesses in the City of Sanger are eligible.
• This program provides grants in the form of reimbursement for up to $10,000.
• Participants are eligible for up to one grant in a twelve-month period from completion of the previous grant.
• Applications are available online at www.sangertxedc.org.
• All business owners and entrepreneurs in the City of Sanger are eligible to participate.
• The Sanger EDC will produce one free 2 minute video.
• Videos are shared with the business owner and posted on the EDC social pages.
• Business owners are encouraged to use them to promote their business.
• For more information and to join the wait list, visit www.sangertxedc.org/ doing-business/business-spotlight
• Are you struggling to find employees? Let the EDC help!
• All Sanger businesses are eligible to participate.
• The Sanger EDC will create and pos an ad for your open positions. These openings will be advertised across Facebook to all Sanger plus twenty-five miles.
• Ads run for 7 days.
• For more information or to participate, send an email to mmiller@sangertexas.org.
• Tom Thumb - 1413 W. Chapman
• Marksmen Insurance Group, LLC - 400 Bolivar Street, Suite 305
• Abide Wellness - 1640 W. Chapman, Suite 205
The Sanger Economic Development E-Newsletter aims to make it easy for you to know what development projects are going on in Sanger. Stay connected with news, updates, and opportunities that will help our Sanger business community. Click here to subscribe.
Stories of the people and places that changed our community.
Jess and Dottie Mae (McBride) Smith and Smith Drygoods Store
By Sanger Area Historical Society and Museum
Smith Drygoods opened May 26, 1934 in the Wilfong Building which was constructed in 1917, and ceased operations February 12, 1972. Jess and Dottie Mae owned this integral part of Sanger’s commercial businesses by providing a little of everything; men’s clothing and shoes, women’s clothing and shoes, bed linens, toiletries, towels, cookware, cologne (remembering “Evening in Paris”), face creams, make-up, fabrics by the yard,
sewing notions, men’s cologne, neckties, handkerchiefs, toys, and gift items for newborns, birthdays, special dates, anniversaries, and Christmas. Inventory was purchased from Dallas and St. Louis and the Smith’s traveled to Dallas every other week to make purchases for the store.
The building during the years of operation was a twostory building and later to be refurbished into a threestory building as it is today.
The Smith Drygoods operated on the ground floor and the entrances (two of them) were grand. There were three display windows on the front of the building with the displays of what was currently either “in fashion”, or especially Christmas time displayed with decorations highlighting the toys that were available. The Oddfellows organization occupied the upper floor of the building in very early years, and in the early 1960s, a youth center opened on the upper floor.
Jess and Dottie Mae married June 10, 1920 and lived in Aubrey until January 1921. There were two children; Nancy Smith and J.P. Smith, Jr. Jess purchased the Wilfong building and opened for business May 26, 1934. The business was such a success in the small town, they employed four or five
employees. Mr. Wilfong who previously owned the building and his business, opened his business in Gainesville, but it didn’t survive his move to the town.
Jess and Dottie Mae were civic-minded in the small town of Sanger and were members of several organizations. They were members of the First Baptist Church of Sanger, and Dottie Mae taught Sunday School for several years. She was a member of the D.A.R., Wednesday Study Club, State Genealogical Society, Sanger Cemetery Association, Chamber of Commerce and the C-C-Ettes. She was a past president of the Sanger ParentTeacher Association. She was listed in the “Texas Women of Distinction” in 1962. Jess was a member of the Lion’s Club as well as other men’s organizations in town.
The Wilfong Building which housed the Wilfong Drygoods store until Jess and Dottie Mae opened their Jess Smith Drygoods business, celebrated 100 years in 2017 with a reception and program for the community.
Jess passed away February 14, 1963 and Dottie Mae continued to operate the business until closing with a public auction on February 22, 1972. Dottie Mae passed away on August 21, 1981.
A sweet story from Idaleene Scheu Fuqua about the Wilfong Building. At Christmas time the children of the community would view all the wonders of Christmas in the three sections of display cases adorning the entrances (2 of them) to the store. Idaleene saw the perfect gift from Santa Clause in the window. It was a doll with a
wardrobe which included several changes of clothes. She told Santa that is what she wanted for Christmas. A few days before
Christmas, part of the store caught on fire and she just knew her chances were gone for getting the lovely doll. Christmas morning, to her delight, the doll and wardrobe were under the tree. Santa had “gathered” it before the fire. (Note, Idaleene passed away December 15, 2025 at the age of 102.)
Visit: https://discoversanger.com for more information on events https://sangertexas.org for more City related information