Flock cameras used by the Bastrop Police Department are now covered as officials move toward ending the city’s contract with the license plate reader company.

What happened: During a Sept. 1 workshop, council members directed staff to immediately cover all 12 city-owned Flock cameras.

Zooming in: The move marks a shift from the city’s former approach. As previously reported, the focus had been on tightening safeguards around the system rather than ending its use.

At an Aug. 25 workshop, Police Chief Vicky Steffanic said the department had not experienced misuse or misconduct involving Flock and outlined additional transparency measures.

Residents, however, still urged council to decommission the cameras over privacy and potential misuse concerns.

Looking ahead: Council will meet Sept. 8, when staff will recommend decommissioning the city-owned Flock system and terminating or declining to renew the contract.

“Public safety isn't our only responsibility,” Mayor Ishmael Harris said. “Public trust is as well.”

Bastrop resident Mary Lou Porter opened Bluebonnet Scrubs in downtown Bastrop, offering uniforms, accessories and gifts to professionals across a range of industries.

How it's going: Since opening in early August, Mary Lou Porter said the community has been supportive

"The community response has been warm, steady, and full of excitement," she said. "We’re grateful for every person who walks through the front door, not just customers. Opening our doors has been a true blessing."

What they offer: A licensed vocational nurse, Porter offers uniforms for workers in health care, hospitality and child care.

Bluebonnet Scrubs also offers themed personal care gifts, bags, novelty bracelets, candles, lanyards, stethoscopes and more.

• Opened Aug. 3

• 1112 Main St., Bastrop

Democrat Gina Hinojosa, an Austin state representative, and Libertarian Pat Dixon, a professional engineer, are challenging Republican incumbent Greg Abbott in the Nov. 3 election. Abbott is seeking a fourth term in the governor's mansion.

The big picture: As Texas’ top elected official, the governor signs and vetoes legislation, serves as commander-in-chief of the state military and appoints members of state agencies or advisory boards. Community Impact asked the three gubernatorial candidates for their perspectives on data centers, education, the cost of living and other topics.

The background: Abbott beat 10 Republican challengers in the March primary election, while Hinojosa beat eight other Democratic candidates to advance to the November election. Dixon was selected as the Texas Libertarian Party's candidate during an April nominating convention.

Looking ahead: Early voting runs from Oct. 19-30, and Election Day is Nov. 3.