Nacogdoches Daily Brief — Zoning Changes, Campus News, and Sheriff Updates
Nacogdoches, TX — February 7, 2026 — City leaders set new energy zoning rules, SFA earns statewide recognition, and recent county jail bookings were released.
City Hall
Nacogdoches City Council has approved new zoning rules governing large-scale battery energy storage systems. The ordinance follows nearly a year of public discussion around safety, environmental impact, and where such facilities can be located. City staff say the rules create clearer guardrails for future projects while aligning with updated state fire and building codes.
The change comes as energy storage developers continue to show interest in East Texas, with at least one proposed project already under review. City officials emphasized that any future developments would still require additional permitting and site-specific approval.
Education & Campus News
Stephen F. Austin State University received fresh statewide recognition this week after one of its online graduate programs ranked among the top five in Texas for 2026. University leaders say the ranking reflects continued investment in online instruction and growing demand from working professionals across the state.
The campus also continues a busy winter schedule with academic events and arts programming underway, adding to steady activity as the spring semester settles in.
Public Safety
The Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office released its latest jail booking report, showing a recent uptick in arrests tied to drug possession, driving while intoxicated, and assault charges. The report reflects bookings from the past several days and is part of the department’s regular public disclosure.
Sheriff’s officials noted there were no new public or civil notices issued as of Friday, and routine patrols remain focused on weekend traffic and community safety.
Looking Ahead
City staff expect additional clarification to the new zoning ordinance later this year, while community organizations continue planning winter and early spring events across town.