El Paso Challenges Gas Rate Hike, Prepares for Primary, Marathon Draws Record Crowd

It’s been a busy stretch across El Paso, with city leaders taking on utility costs, election season ramping up, and thousands of runners preparing to hit the streets downtown.

City Pushes Back on Gas Rate Increase

El Paso officials are formally challenging a proposed rate hike from Texas Gas Service. City Council voted to authorize legal action and seek a rehearing, arguing the increase would place an unnecessary burden on residents already facing rising living costs.

At the same time, the city announced progress on electric bill relief. State regulators rejected a request from El Paso Electric that could have raised customer costs, a move city leaders say will help secure an estimated $10.4 million in savings for local ratepayers.

Together, the actions signal a more aggressive stance from the city on utility oversight as households feel pressure from inflation and seasonal energy demand.

Super Tuesday: What Voters Need to Know

With the Texas primary set for March 3, local election coverage is intensifying. Voters in El Paso County are being urged to confirm their registration status, review sample ballots, and make sure they bring an approved photo ID to polling locations.

One closely watched race is the GOP primary for Texas’ 16th Congressional District, which has drawn seven candidates. The crowded field is expected to generate strong turnout and shape the region’s political landscape heading into November.

Record Turnout for El Paso Marathon

This weekend’s El Paso Marathon is expected to draw a record number of participants. More than 700 runners have signed up for the full 26.2-mile race, which will follow a new downtown course.

Organizers say the updated route is designed to showcase the city’s core while improving crowd flow and runner safety. Drivers should expect temporary street closures throughout Sunday morning.

From City Hall to the ballot box to the starting line, it’s a weekend that reflects El Paso’s mix of civic engagement and community spirit.

Sources

https://kvia.com/news/2026/02/16/city-of-el-paso-secures-estimated-10-4-million-electric-bill-savings-for-residents/
https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiugFBVV95cUxPelZhejNhNWdaLWJoclNvU2lDTU5BSFV1R1Zzc1RwWE1MNVdzQnN
https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMi1wFBVV95cUxPdFFvYVEwV1dLb1ZHdFIwVDlEbEtCYS1wdGpUZ2hGNTdiZnBCRkl
https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/record-number-expected-el-paso-225530177.html