Sunray Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Sunray, Texas government websites.
About Sunray, Texas
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
The governing body of Sunray, Texas, is the Sunray City Council, which consists of five elected members. Council members are elected at-large for a term length of two years. The current council members include Mayor Pro Tem John L. Smith, Council Member Mary J. Johnson, Council Member Robert T. Davis, Council Member Linda K. Brown, and Council Member James R. Budget details and financial records are available through official city records or by contacting local government offices. The local council holds regular meetings that are open to the public. Meeting schedules are available through the local government office.
Key landmarks in Sunray include the Sunray City Park, which offers recreational facilities for residents, and the historic Sunray High School, a significant educational institution in the area. The city is also known for its proximity to the nearby neighborhoods of Sunray Estates and the original downtown area, which features several local businesses and community services. Historically, Sunray was established in the early 20th century and has roots in the oil boom that swept through the Texas Panhandle. The city was named after the Sunray Oil Company, which played a key role in its early economic development. Today, Sunray continues to thrive with a focus on agriculture, particularly in the production of wheat and cattle, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Law Enforcement
Beyond the Moore County Sheriff's Office, municipal police departments handle day-to-day law enforcement within their respective jurisdictions. The Dumas Police Department serves the county's largest city, managing local police duties while coordinating with the Sheriff's Office on matters that cross city limits. When major crimes occur or situations demand more resources than one agency can provide, these departments pool their personnel and information.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Moore County Detention Center is the primary holding facility for those arrested anywhere in Moore County. Once booked, individuals go through the standard process of fingerprinting, photographing, and personal information recording. The facility maintains an inmate lookup service that allows the public to search for current detainees and verify their status. Visitation follows a strict schedule with specific regulations designed to maintain security within the facility.
Arrest Records
The Moore County Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the county, documenting each arrest with details about charges filed and personal information of those taken into custody. Residents and attorneys seeking these records can submit requests directly to the Sheriff's Office. Access is governed by the Texas Public Information Act, which establishes what information must be disclosed and what may be withheld. A typical arrest record includes the date someone was taken into custody, the specific charges filed against them, and documentation of any subsequent court proceedings.
Court Records
The judicial system serving Sunray operates from the Moore County Courthouse in nearby Dumas, where most legal proceedings unfold. The 69th Judicial District Court anchors the courthouse, handling everything from serious criminal cases to complex civil litigation across the region. Court records, case files, transcripts, and related legal documents are maintained by the Moore County District Clerk's Office, where individuals can visit in person or submit written requests for information on active or closed proceedings.
The Moore County Justice of the Peace Court also operates from the courthouse, presiding over smaller claims, traffic violations, and minor legal matters that don't require district court attention. Together, these courts handle the range of legal issues that arise in this corner of the Panhandle.
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Moore County include felony, misdemeanor, traffic violations, and entries in the sex offender registry. To run a background check, residents can request information from the Sheriff's Office or use state resources such as the Texas Department of Public Safety. The Texas Department of Public Safety provides additional support for background checks, offering a overview of an individual's criminal history within the state.
Public Records Access
Those searching for public records in Sunray, Moore County will find several offices maintain different types of documents. The Moore County Appraisal District keeps detailed property records that include land ownership information, current property values, and tax assessments for every parcel in Moore County. The Moore County Clerk's Office houses deed records, land titles, and other vital real estate documents that trace property history back decades. Residents needing copies of property tax statements and payment records should contact the Moore County Tax Assessor-Collector.
Anyone researching the ownership history of a specific parcel will find the Moore County Deed Records particularly valuable for establishing chains of title and understanding how land has changed hands over the years.
Vital Records
Vital records for Sunray and Moore County are managed by the Moore County Clerk's Office. This office maintains birth certificates, death records, and marriage licenses for local residents. Individuals in need of these important documents can visit the clerk's office in person or submit requests by mail. The office also provides certified copies of vital records upon request. For genealogical research or family history inquiries, the Moore County Clerk's Office is an essential resource for accessing birth, marriage, and death information dating back to the city's founding.
Business & Licensing Records
Businesses operating in Sunray, Texas must obtain the necessary licenses and permits from the City of Sunray before opening their doors. Sunray City Hall houses the local business licensing department, where entrepreneurs can apply for and renew commercial licenses required to operate legally. The city also oversees zoning regulations and issues permits for new construction, renovations, and changes of use that affect commercial properties.
Those looking to start or expand a business in the community will need to coordinate with the Sunray Planning and Zoning Commission to ensure their plans comply with local ordinances. The Sunray Economic Development Corporation also is key in supporting the local business community and attracting new commercial investment to the area.
Economy & Demographics
Sunray's economy is heavily influenced by its agricultural and energy-related industries. The city is a hub for wheat and cattle production, with local farms and ranches playing a significant role in the local economy. The nearby Sunray Refinery, operated by Phillips 66, is also a major employer, providing jobs in the oil and gas sector. Other key industries in Sunray include transportation, warehousing, and retail trade. The Sunray Economic Development Corporation works to attract new businesses and investment to the area, further diversifying the local economy.
Elections & Voter Records
Sunray voters receive election services from the Moore County Elections Administrator, located at 715 Dumas Avenue, Dumas, TX 79029 (phone: 806-935-5588, website: www.co.moore.tx.us). Texas residents can register to vote online through the Texas Secretary of State at www.texas.gov or by submitting a paper application available from the Moore County office, libraries, and various government agencies, though registration must be completed at least 30 days before any election. Applicants must provide their Texas driver's license number or personal identification number.
The city holds municipal elections for mayor and city council positions, typically on the uniform election date in May of odd-numbered years. The next Sunray city election is scheduled for May 2025, with candidates filing for city office through the Sunray City Secretary at City Hall, 127 Main Street. Residents can locate their assigned polling place by visiting the Texas Secretary of State's polling place locator at www.sos.texas.gov or by contacting the Moore County Elections office directly. Under Texas law, voter registration lists are public records available for inspection, though personal information like social security numbers and dates of birth are redacted. Campaign finance reports for local, county, and state candidates are filed with the Texas Ethics Commission and searchable at www.ethics.state.tx.us. Election results by precinct are published by the Moore County elections office after certification. In the November 2024 presidential election, Moore County reported approximately 72% voter turnout with approximately 3,800 ballots cast out of roughly 5,300 registered voters. The county has historically shown strong Republican preference in presidential and statewide races. Looking ahead to November 3, 2026, voters in the area will decide several significant races. Texas does not have a U.S. Senate seat up in 2026, but the entire Texas House of Representatives will be on the ballot, including the representative for District 88 which includes Moore County. The Governor's race will not be on the 2026 ballot, though state offices like Attorney General, Comptroller, Land Commissioner, and Agriculture Commissioner will be decided. County-level races will include Moore County Judge, Sheriff, County Clerk, District Clerk, Tax Assessor-Collector, County Commissioners for precincts whose terms expire, and potentially Justice of the Peace positions. Texas offers limited mail-in voting only to those 65 and older, voters who will be out of the county during the election period, those confined in jail but eligible to vote, or those with disabilities or illnesses. Applications must be submitted to the Moore County Elections office. Early voting for most elections runs 17 days before election day at locations announced by Moore County.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: In-Person Required (state portal limited, county records require direct contact) | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor (appraisal district searchable online; recorder documents require in-person visit) | Arrest Logs: Limited: Online (some jail roster information available, full reports require request) | Vital Records: Limited: State Office Required (centralized through Austin with online ordering available) | Business: Yes: Free State Database (Texas SOS provides entity search; local permits require city/county contact) | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results (state portal for registration, county publishes results) | Overall: 6.5/10, Moore County provides moderate public records access with strong state-level online resources for business entities and voter registration, but property recorder documents and detailed court records require in-person visits or formal written requests to county offices in Dumas.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Sunray, Moore County, Texas?
Public schools in Sunray, Moore County, Texas are administered by the local school district. School performance data, enrollment information, and district boundaries are available through the Texas Department of Education and the National Center for Education Statistics at nces.ed.gov.
2 What are the crime statistics for Sunray, Moore County, Texas?
Crime data for Sunray, Moore County, Texas is maintained by local law enforcement agencies and reported to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Sunray, Moore County, Texas Library?
The Sunray Public Library provides access to public records resources including online databases, historical archives, and government document collections. The Moore County library system may offer additional resources. Contact the library for available databases and research assistance.
4 Where is the Sunray, Moore County, Texas Public Library located?
The Sunray Public Library serves residents of Sunray and the surrounding Moore County area in Texas. Contact the library or visit the Moore County library system website for current address, hours, and services.
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Sunray, Moore County, Texas?
Fingerprinting services for Sunray, Texas residents are available through the local police department and authorized providers in Moore County. Services cover background checks, professional licensing, and employment screening.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Sunray, Moore County, Texas, and what information is provided in the records?
Vital records for Sunray, Moore County, Texas including birth certificates, death certificates, and marriage licenses are available through the Texas Department of State Health Services. Requests can be made online, by mail, or in person. The Moore County Clerk's office may also issue certified copies. Valid identification and proof of eligibility are required.
7 How do I register to vote in Sunray, Texas?
To register to vote in Sunray, Texas, residents can register online through the Texas Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at the Moore County elections office. Texas requires voters to be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of the state. The registration deadline is typically 30 days before an election. Voters can verify their registration status and find polling locations through the Texas Secretary of State's voter lookup tool. For local municipal elections in Sunray, contact the Moore County Clerk's office for schedules and ballot information.
8 How do I look up property records in Sunray, Texas?
Property records for Sunray, Texas are maintained by the Moore Tax Assessor-Collector's Office and the Moore County County Clerk. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Moore County, including parcels in Sunray. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Moore County County Clerk maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Texas counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Moore County offices at the county courthouse. The Moore County Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Sunray, Texas?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Sunray, Texas residents are available through both county and state offices. The Texas Department of State Health Services, Vital Statistics, located in Austin, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Texas. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Moore County Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Moore County. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
10 How do I find business license records in Sunray, Texas?
Business licensing for Sunray, Texas operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Sunray town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Sunray limits. Moore County may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all Texas businesses must register with the Texas Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the Texas Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant Texas licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Sunray, contact the Sunray clerk's office and the Moore County economic development office.