Rayburn Resort marketed for sale as owner seeks operating partner
BROOKELAND — Rayburn Resort and Marina is being marketed to potential buyers and partners, but owner Joe Penland Jr. said he is not looking to walk away from the Lake Sam Rayburn property. Hunter Hotel Advisors has been exclusively engaged to market the 573-acre resort north of Jasper. Penland and family investors purchased Rayburn Country Resort in 2020 after the previous ownership group closed the facility. Penland said the family’s plan from the beginning was to restore the property, get its operations established and eventually find an experienced resort operator. “I am not looking to exit; rather, I am looking for the right operator and partner,” Penland said. “My personal expertise is in other areas, and I believe the resort would benefit from working with a major operator that specializes in managing multiple large properties and can help take it to the next level.” The property includes a 47-room lodge, 37 cabins, 28 recreational vehicle spaces, a 27-hole golf course, a 120-slip marina, five restaurant and bar concepts, event venues, a swimming pool and sports courts. Hunter’s marketing materials report that the independently operated resort generated more than $7.4 million in total revenue during 2025, a 20% increase from 2024. The listing does not disclose an asking price. Hunter describes the unbranded property as an opportunity for affiliation with a national hospitality company. Wyndham Trademark, Margaritaville, Best Western, IHG and Hyatt Destination or Hyatt Regency are among the brands reported to have expressed interest. Hunter’s resort listing also promotes the property’s marina and beach access. Penland said discussions have been held with several interested groups, but no partner or buyer has been selected. “We have been very selective throughout the process because it is important that any future partner share our values and appreciation for this beautiful area and its community,” he said. Under Penland’s ownership, the resort has undergone significant revitalization and expansion, including development of District 255, a floating water park and a white-sand beach. The Penland family built its business interests through Quality Mat Co., a Beaumont company founded by Joe Penland Sr. The company grew from 10 handmade crane mats into one of the world’s largest manufacturers of ground-protection mats, according to its company history. Penland said protecting the resort’s workforce and relationship with the community will remain central to any agreement. “Our goal is to keep our more than 200 employees working, continue providing excellent service to our customers and support the quality of life in our community for generations to come,” he said. Penland added that an official announcement will be made once a decision is reached.
Jasper council approves tax rate
JASPER — The Jasper City Council approved a higher property tax rate, adopted its 2026-27 budget and distributed $99,500 in hotel occupancy tax revenue during its Tuesday meeting. The council first held public hearings on the proposed tax rate and budget. Resident Angie Lee questioned the council about exemptions, credits, rising property valuations and the role of the Jasper County Appraisal District. Mayor pro tem Lequin Hilderbrand answered most of her questions before City Attorney Bill Morian Jr. determined the discussion had moved beyond the hearing’s scope. During its regular session, the council approved a property tax rate of $0.34944 per $100 of taxable value. The previous rate was $0.285 per $100, representing an increase of $0.06444. The measure passed 4-1, with Councilwoman Mamie Horn opposed. The council also approved a $31,523,345 budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year. That is $1,345,242 more than the city’s originally adopted 2025-26 budget of $30,178,103. The budget passed 4-1, with Horn opposed. Council members approved $99,500 in hotel occupancy tax funding. The American Junior Golf Association received $37,000 for two tournaments, with $18,500 allocated to each. The Sealy Outdoors Fishing Tournament received $18,500. Other allocations included $10,000 each for Major League Fishing and Lakes Area Cruisers; $5,000 each for the Jasper County Cowboy Church Pro Rodeo and Outlaw Outdoors Fishing Tournament; $4,000 for the Jasper County Historical Museum; $3,000 for the J.H. Rowe Alumni Association; $2,500 for Lone Star Youth Council; $2,000 for CFHPA; $1,500 for the East Texas Art League; and $1,000 for DeWitt Clinton Masonic Lodge. Bob Dickinson of the Southeast Texas Regional Planning Commission reported that the Jasper Public Transit Pilot Project is operating Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The curb-to-curb service costs $1 each way. Rides must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance by calling 409-892-0979 or 1-800-259-4457.
