PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact:
Michael L. Martinez
(956) 877-5716 [email protected]
Pharr Police Department Honored Statewide for Commitment to Hiring Veterans
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department has been recognized by the Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Workforce Solutions, and the Texas Veterans Commission for its outstanding commitment to hiring veterans.
The recognition was presented during the Texas Conference for Employers held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the Harlingen Convention Center. The recognition is part of the We Hire Vets Employer Recognition Program, which honors Texas employers dedicated to recruiting, hiring, and retaining military veterans.
Pharr Police Chief Juan F. Gonzalez, Marine veteran and Assistant Chief Michael Rodriguez, Marine veteran and Assistant Chief Daniel Leal, and Army veteran Sergeant Luis Hernandez accepted the award on behalf of the department.
The Pharr Police Department is proud to have one of the highest percentages of veterans serving within its ranks in the state, with veterans making up approximately 20 percent of the department’s workforce.
That commitment extends beyond employment. Through the department’s Mental Paws Program, the Pharr Police Department hosts events that bring local veterans together to connect with one another, learn about available veterans resources, and engage with department personnel. Veterans also have the opportunity to interact with the Mental Health Unit’s emotional support dog, Ammo.
The department extends its sincere appreciation to the Texas Workforce Commission, Texas Workforce Solutions, and the Texas Veterans Commission for recognizing its ongoing commitment to veteran employment.
The Pharr Police Department is proud to hire veterans who have served our nation and who now continue their commitment to public service by protecting and serving the residents of the City of Pharr.
Media is welcome to use the following soundbites, b-roll, and photos as part of their coverage.
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Kenia Gomez
Phone: (956) 769-1006
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr to Host Independence Day Festival on Saturday, 7/4 from 7 – 11 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr invites residents and visitors to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary at the City’s annual Independence Day Festival on Friday, July 4, 2026.
The festival will take place from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Allen & William Arnold City/School Park (615 W. Eldora Rd, Pharr, TX 78577). Join us for a night of family fun, including aDrone Show at 9:30 PM and a spectacular Fireworks Show at 10:30 PM.
This FREE, family-friendly celebration will feature live entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors, a petting zoo, and an evening of patriotic festivities for the entire community. The evening’s entertainment includes performances by Michael Flores & Southern Vibes, Midnight Run, and Trey Gonzalez. A clear bag policy will be enforced.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead as temporary road closures will be in effect to ensure the safety of festival attendees. Motorists traveling through the surrounding area should expect delays and plan alternate routes.
ROAD CLOSURES:
• W. Eldora Rd. between Sugar Rd. and Frontage Rd.
• Frontage Rd. (access into the area permitted; no exiting onto Frontage)
• Frontage Rd. exit closed 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
All media and the public are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: City of Pharr Independence Day Festival
WHEN: Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
WHERE: Allen & William Arnold City/School Park (615 W. Eldora Rd, Pharr, TX 78577)
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Kenia Gomez
Phone: (956) 769-1006
Email: [email protected]
Pharr Connect to Celebrate Broadband Infrastructure Expansion at Pharr Housing Authority Communities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr, in partnership with the Pharr Housing Development Corporation, will host ribbon-cutting ceremonies to celebrate the launch of Pharr Connect service at three Pharr Housing Authority communities, giving residents the option to enroll in the City’s municipal fiber-optic internet network.
The celebrations will take place on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Sunset Terrace (10 AM), Parkview Terrace (1:30 PM), and on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Las Canteras (1:30 PM), where residents will now have access to reliable, high-speed broadband through the Pharr Connect network.
This expansion reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to increasing digital access and ensuring residents have the connectivity needed for education, employment, healthcare, and everyday communication at a low cost.
Members of the media are invited to attend. Interview opportunities with City officials will be available following each ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Please note: This event is not open to the general public. Attendance is limited to residents of the participating communities and media representatives.
DETAILS
WHAT: Pharr Connect Broadband Infrastructure Expansion Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
WHEN & WHERE: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
• 10:00 AM — Sunset Terrace (800 W. Egly Ave., Pharr, TX)
• 1:30 PM — Parkview Terrace (211 W. Audrey St., Pharr, TX) Wednesday, July 1, 2026
• 1:30 PM — Las Canteras (415 E. Thomas Rd., Pharr, TX)
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Kenia Gomez
Phone: (956) 769-1006
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr to Host Accessibility and Inclusion Training TODAY, 6/23 @ 3 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JUNE 23, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr, in partnership with the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities, and the Disability Chamber of Commerce Rio Grande Valley, will host an Accessibility and Inclusion Training for City departments.
The training will take place TODAY, Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Pharr ONE Lecture Hall.
The session will provide employees with tools, resources, and best practices related to accessibility and inclusion across city programs, services, facilities, and public engagement efforts. The training reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to professional development.
Media are invited to attend and cover the event. Please note that this training is intended for City personnel and invited partners and is not open to the general public.
DETAILS
WHAT: Accessibility and Inclusion Training for the City of Pharr
WHEN: Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
WHERE: Pharr ONE Lecture Hall (1121 E. Nolana Loop Pharr, Texas 78577)
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, June 15, 2026, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
The City of Pharr Proclaims June 2026 as “Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month”
The Pharr City Commission proclaimed June 2026 as Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, recognizing the millions of individuals, families, caregivers, and researchers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The proclamation highlighted that an estimated 7 million Americans, including more than 459,000 Texans, are living with Alzheimer’s disease, while over 1 million Texans provide unpaid care to loved ones affected by the condition. The proclamation was presented to Laura Karam, Chairperson for The Walk to End Alzheimer’s Upper Valley, and local representatives, who encouraged the community to participate in the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer’s on October 3, 2026, at the Vanguard Nature Center in Pharr. “We thank the City of Pharr for your support, and we look forward to hosting this year’s walk right here in Pharr at this beautiful facility,” said Karam. The City of Pharr is committed to supporting awareness, education, and advocacy efforts that improve the lives of those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers.
Pharr Proclaims June as “Transverse Myelitis Awareness Month”
The Pharr City Commission proclaimed June 2026 as Transverse Myelitis Awareness Month, recognizing the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by this rare neurological disorder. The proclamation was presented to Audrey Garza and her family, who have become advocates for increased awareness and support for those living with the condition. During the presentation, Audrey’s grandmother shared her inspiring journey, highlighting Audrey’s courage and resilience as she continues to overcome the obstacles associated with Transverse Myelitis. As mentioned in the proclamation, the disorder can cause varying degrees of physical disability, paralysis, sensory impairment, and chronic pain, emphasizing the importance of public awareness, continued research, and access to support resources for patients and caregivers. The City of Pharr joins communities across the nation in recognizing Transverse Myelitis Awareness Month and expressing support for those navigating the daily challenges of the disease.
City Recognizes Vanguard Academy Picasso Elementary Students for earning 1st Place in the Greenpower USA Competition
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores recognized students from Vanguard Academy Picasso Elementary for earning first place in the Greenpower USA competition, a national STEM engineering program that challenges students to design, build, and race electric-powered vehicles. As participants in Vanguard Academy’s STEM ACE after-school program, the students showcased exceptional teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving skills while competing against schools from across the country and proudly representing both their school and the City of Pharr on a national stage. “Throughout this journey, this team embraced challenges, worked together toward a common goal, overcame obstacles, and represented our City of Pharr, our school and our district with pride,” said Dr. Lizette Longoria, Director for 21st Century Learning for Vanguard Academy. She added that programs like ACE help spark curiosity, build confidence, and create pathways for students to discover their talents and passions. The City of Pharr congratulates the students, Vanguard Academy, and the parents whose support helped make this remarkable championship achievement possible. Way to go, students!
City of Pharr Celebrates Communications Department for Earning Three TAMIO Awards
The Pharr City Commission and Kenia Gomez, Director of the Office of City Communications, celebrated the Communications Department for earning three awards during its first-ever participation in the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers (TAMIO) Conference held in Austin. The awards recognize excellence in municipal communications and highlight the department’s commitment to informing, engaging, and connecting with the community. Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez and the City Commission congratulated the team on their achievement, commending their outstanding efforts in telling the city’s stories, increasing public awareness, enhancing community outreach, and showcasing the many accomplishments and initiatives taking place throughout Pharr. This recognition reflects the department’s commitment to delivering clear, engaging communications that keep residents informed and support the city’s continued growth and success.
City Announces May 2026 Sales Tax Report
City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores announced that the City of Pharr continues to demonstrate strong economic momentum, reporting an 8.32% increase in sales tax collections for May 2026 compared to May 2025. Year-to-date, the City has achieved a 5.37% increase in true growth based on calendar year collections, while fiscal year 2025-2026 collections have risen 5.88% overall. Additionally, sales tax revenues are currently 2.38% ahead of budget projections, highlighting Pharr’s ongoing economic strength and reinforcing the city’s position as one of the region’s leading centers for commerce, trade, and development.
Keep Pharr Beautiful Board Members Reappointed
The Pharr City Commission approved the reappointment of Mari Caballero and Jessica Trevino to the Keep Pharr Beautiful Board. Caballero was reappointed to a three-year term, while Trevino was reappointed to a one-year term. Both members expressed their desire to continue serving and supporting the board’s efforts to promote beautification, sustainability, and community pride throughout Pharr.
City Commission Reappoints Board of Adjustment Members
The Pharr City Commission approved the reappointment of Rogelio Torres and Ramiro Gutierrez to the Board of Adjustment. Both members will continue serving on the board, providing valuable guidance on zoning and land-use matters that support the City’s growth and development.
Featured Events:
Full Swing For Men’s Health Golf Tournament – Saturday, June 20, 2026, Check-In at 7 AM
Swing into summer for a great cause!
Join us at the Full Swing for Men’s Health Golf Tournament on Saturday, June 20th at Tierra Del Sol Golf Course.
Check‑in starts at 7 AM and the tournament kicks off at 8 AM.
Two‑man teams • 9‑hole tournament • Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place!
Registration is online only and closes June 18th. $40 per team.
Saturday, June 20, 2026 Check-In: 7:00 AM | Gun Shot Start: 8:00 AM Tierra Del Sol Golf Course (700 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Don’t wait—secure your spot today!
Cody’s Birthday Bash – Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 8 PM
NEW DATE! Join us for Cody’s Birthday Bash Block Party!
Thursday, June 25,2026 5:30 PM – 8 PM 118 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577
Bring the whole family for music, food, raffles, and tons of fun—all for FREE!
Don’t miss out on celebrating with our friend Cody!
Independence Day Festival – Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 7 PM to 11 PM
Join us for the City of Pharr’s 250th Anniversary Independence Day Festival!
Bring the whole family for an unforgettable evening filled with food, carnival rides, vendors, live music, and a petting zoo!
📅 Saturday, July 4,2026 🕖 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM 📍 Allen & William Arnold City/School Park (615 W. Eldora Rd., Pharr, TX 78577)
✨ Don’t miss the Drone Show at 9:30 PM and the spectacular Fireworks Show at 10:30 PM as we celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary together. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! 🇺🇸🎆🎇
City of Pharr Breaks Ground on New Multi-Use Facility to Enhance Public Services, Emergency Preparedness, and Community Programming
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026
Pharr, Texas – City leaders, distinguished guests, and project partners gathered Wednesday to celebrate the groundbreaking of the City of Pharr’s new Multi-Use Facility, a transformative project designed to support municipal operations, emergency preparedness, and community programming under one roof.
Located at the corner of U.S. Highway 281 and Ferguson Avenue, the facility represents a significant investment in the City’s future and will provide a flexible, modern space capable of evolving alongside the needs of the growing community.
The facility is 83,567-square-feet and is situated on 14.6 acres. Designed with adaptability in mind, the facility will feature large operable partitions, state-of-the-art audiovisual systems, mezzanine-level viewing areas, and broadcast-ready capabilities.
The facility’s primary functions will include:
Emergency operations support
Customer service functions for municipal services
Cultural and educational programming
Civic gatherings
In addition to serving residents during day-to-day operations, the facility will play a critical role in emergency coordination, preparedness efforts, and regional response initiatives when needed.
The project is expected to generate approximately 400 to 500 construction-related jobs throughout the duration of the build, while also creating indirect economic opportunities for local suppliers, contractors, and service providers.
Construction began in May 2026 and is anticipated to be completed during the first quarter of 2028.
Saturday, June 20, 2026
Check-In: 7:00 AM | Gun Shot Start: 8:00 AM
Tierra Del Sol Golf Course (700 E. Hall Acres Rd., 
NEW DATE! Join us for Cody’s Birthday Bash Block Party! 
