After reading the other Texas thread I decided to start a new one regarding this city. I work for a large chemical company that has a plant in Beaumont, TX. I currently reside in Memphis, TN, and this town is going down the toilet fast ('05 murder rate is on pace to set a new record, terrible public schools, corrupt & inept local government, massive welfare-dependent population, city & county taxes property increased 140% since 1999, etc., etc.). I am seriously thinking about trying to relocate to Beaumont & work at the plant there (assuming that a position comes available; would be a lateral move). Pay would be the same (I currently make $23.59/hr.) and I would be working outside 80% of the time, just as I do now at the Memphis plant.
I'd be interested in any opinions regarding this part of Texas, pro and con. I am married, have a 14 month old son and my passions are hunting, golf, target shooting, etc. We have no idea what cost of living is down there but we're basically looking for an area that is family oriented or somewhere where 5-20 acres with a decent house could be had. What are the schools like down there & what are the demographics, crime, weather, etc. Also, I'd like to stay within a 40 minute commute to/from the plant as well.
Thanks for any help/advice. As a side note, I have "long lost" family in Texas that I'm hoping to look up if this looks like a feasible move.