The City of Amarillo (COA) is responding to a water main break near South Loop 335 between Georgia Street and Washington Street. The water main break occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. Thursday. In order to repair the water main break, water service may be temporarily impacted in the surrounding area. Customers are being notified directly by the city with information regarding the estimated duration of the water main repair and any other relevant updates. Repair crews are currently onsite working to isolate and repair the damaged section of the water main. The impact to water service is anticipated to last up to 48 hours. Updates will be provided as information becomes available. Regardless of possible inclement weather conditions, COA crews will continue working around the clock to complete the necessary repairs. The COA Water Utilities Department acknowledges the inconvenience this service interruption may cause to businesses in the area. City staff is working diligently to restore service as quickly and safely as possible. For more information contact City of Amarillo Media Relations Manager Dave Henry at 806-378-5219 or by email at david.henry@amarillo.gov. ###

The Hollywood Road Wastewater Treatment Facility (HRWTF) is closed to waste haulers until Monday (April 7) due to inflow issues and expected inclement weather this weekend. It is estimated the inflow issues will be resolved by Monday. Haulers using the facilityhave been notified and will be notified if the project requires additional time. The facility will continue to operate as normal for all domestic and industrial wastewater. For more information contact City of Amarillo Media Relations Manager Dave Henry at 806-378-5219 or by email at david.henry@amarillo.gov. ###

Online Availability to be Temporarily Impacted The City of Amarillo (COA) Environmental Health Department is upgrading its software system for public online services, including applications, renewals and inspections. The upgrade to the software system will require a temporary pause for public online services. The timeline is as follows: “This software upgrade will require a temporary pause in our online capacity,” said COA Director of Environmental Health Anthony Spanel. “We appreciate the patience of the public as we make this improvement that will help streamline our online services for food permits, inspections, group care licenses, mobile food units, pools and spas and more. “The Environmental Health Department will be available in-person and fully functional. We will be happy to help during this brief transition.” The COA Environmental Health Department can be reached at (806) 378-9472 and is located at the Simms Municipal Building, 808 S. Buchanan St.

The City of Amarillo has formally appointed Assistant Chief Jimmy Johnson as Interim Chief of Police, ensuring steady leadership for the Amarillo Police Department (APD) while the City conducts a national search for the next permanent Chief of Police. “With Assistant Chief Johnson’s extensive experience, deep-rooted commitment to our community, and strong leadership skills, we know the department remains in capable hands as we undertake the search for a permanent Chief,” said Andrew Freeman, Deputy City Manager and Public Safety Director. “Our priority is to ensure a thoughtful and well-executed selection process that engages stakeholders and sets APD up for long-term success.” Born and raised in Amarillo, Johnson has dedicated over three decades to law enforcement. He began his career with APD in 1988 as a Jailor before joining the Amarillo Police Academy the following year. Over the years, he has served in various critical roles, including Patrol, Detectives, and the Community Oriented Policing and Problem-Solving Unit (COPPS). His experience also spans specialized units such as the Dive Team, SWAT Team, Peer Counseling, and Honor Guard. Johnson holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Justice Administration from Wayland Baptist University, a Master Peace Officer License, and an Instructor License through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. His leadership credentials include graduating from the prestigious FBI National Academy (Session 282) and completing the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Leadership Series. From August 2022 – November 2022, Johnson also had the opportunity to assist the City of Dalhart as their Interim Chief of Police, which provided valuable professional development to prepare him for this appointment.  “I am honored to serve the citizens of Amarillo in this capacity and to lead the dedicated men and women of APD during this important transition,” said Interim Chief Johnson. “We will continue our commitment to public safety, professionalism, and community engagement