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Water Supply & Account Scams Warning ⚠️ The City of Beaumont is alerting residents about a scam involving individuals going door-to-door while pretending to be city water utility workers. These impostors are reportedly attempting to sell water filtration systems and, in some cases, requesting access to homes under the pretense of testing the water for bacteria. City officials emphasize that these individuals are not affiliated with any city department. Beaumont’s water utility department does not send representatives door-to-door to collect water samples or sell products of any kind. In fact, if water sampling is necessary, it is always scheduled in advance, and residents are notified accordingly. "Legitimate city employees will never ask to enter your home for repairs or water quality tests without prior notice," said city officials in a recent public advisory. Real employees can be identified by clearly marked City of Beaumont vehicles and uniforms bearing the city's logo. Residents are urged to remain cautious and to never allow unverified individuals into their homes. If someone claims to be with the city and is behaving suspiciously, residents should not hesitate to contact local authorities or the city's water department to confirm the legitimacy of the visit. Beaumont Police and city leaders encourage the community to report any suspicious activity immediately, especially if someone is using pressure tactics or making unannounced visits regarding water quality or equipment. For more information and to read the original article, visit: https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/beaumont-warns-door-to-door-water-utility-scam-20335711.php

Texas Homeowners Insurance Rates Are Soaring — What Should Be Done? If you’ve noticed your homeowners insurance premium creeping up (or jumping way up), you’re not alone. A recent article from The Texas Tribune and AP News highlights that Texas homeowners saw a 19% rate increase in 2024, following a 21% spike in 2023. And unless something changes, there’s little relief in sight. 🔗 Read the full article here So, what’s driving the surge? • Climate change is bringing more frequent and severe weather events • Inflation and higher construction costs are pushing up claim payouts • Lack of state regulation allows insurers to raise rates without approval Lawmakers are starting to respond with proposals like: • Senate Bill 1643, which would require state approval for rate hikes over 10% • House Bill 1576, offering grants to help homeowners reinforce their homes But will these measures be enough? Even legislators admit they’re trying to control a moving target. As Rep. Tom Oliverson put it, “We can't control the weather, we can't control inflation.” As someone working in the insurance industry, I see the real-world impact this has on everyday Texans. But I’d love to hear from you. 👉 Have you noticed your insurance premiums going up? What do you think should be done — more regulation, better consumer protections, or something else entirely? Let’s talk about it. Your input matters — especially now. Would you like a visual to pair with this post for social or forums? I can help design that too.

Hundreds of officers from more than a dozen law enforcement agencies raided 30 Houston game rooms Wednesday in an attempt to dismantle a large illegal gambling network, officials said. The U.S. Department of Justice announced charges against 16 people Thursday, including a man they said was the mastermind behind the multi-million dollar operation.  The raids were carried out across the Houston region from Nassau Bay to Jersey Village and from Missouri City to Baytown. During the raids, authorities seized $4.5 million in cash, $5 million in property and vehicles and 2,000 slot machines, according to the Department of Justice. Federal and local authorities investigate a game room in the 3600 block of East Tidwell on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. Sixteen people have been indicted in federal court over accusations they operated a illegal gambling operation at 30 game rooms across the Houston area. Courtesy/OnScene.tv READ THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE