The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, January 6, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:

City of Pharr Accepts Healthier Texas Challenge Pledge, Vies for Fifth Consecutive Win

The Pharr City Commission enthusiastically accepted the annual Healthier Texas Challenge pledge. Abel Molina, Interim Director of Special Events, presented the challenge to the commission. The City of Pharr is proud to partner with Healthier Texas (formerly It’s Time Texas), a nonprofit dedicated to improving health across the state by reducing preventable diseases and increasing access to care. Having won the Medium Size category of the challenge for four consecutive years, Pharr invites the community and city employees to join this year’s efforts to aim for a fifth straight victory. “We invite everyone to join us as we accept this year’s challenge and work together towards a healthier lifestyle,” said Molina. “As part of the challenge, we will host several community events in the next few months,” he added. “We remind you to check our city social media pages for updates,” continued Molina. Together, we can promote healthier lifestyles and continue building a stronger, healthier future for all Texans.

City Leaders Recognized for Completing Certified Public Manager Program

The Pharr City Commission proudly recognized Dr. David Friedlein and Hilda Pedraza, Assistant City Managers; Alberto Gonzalez, Assistant Fire Chief; and Alessandra Garcia, Assistant City Clerk, for successfully completing the rigorous 14-month Certified Public Manager Program. This prestigious program equips public servants with advanced skills to enhance organizational effectiveness and foster innovation in public service. Graduates are better prepared to lead with vision and dedication, driving meaningful improvements for the City of Pharr and its residents. “Congratulations, we are proud to recognize these individuals for their hard work, effort, and for taking the next step in their professional development by completing this rigorous program,” said City Manager Dr. Jonathan Flores. “We commend you for embarking on this journey and are excited about the valuable knowledge and innovative practices you will bring to our Team Pharr family,” added Pharr City Commissioner Bobby Carrillo.

Pharr EMS Commended for Life-Saving On-Scene Blood Transfusion

The Pharr City Commission commended members of Pharr EMS for their swift and life-saving response during a critical emergency, highlighting the success of the newly implemented pre-hospital whole blood transfusion program. This initiative equips Pharr EMS medics to provide life-saving treatment for patients experiencing life-threatening trauma. Under specific circumstances, medics are trained to evaluate patients, ensure they meet the criteria and administer whole blood directly at the scene. Only two other providers in the region currently carry whole blood. On December 29, 2024, Medic 4, staffed by Paramedic Vanessa Girola and Advanced EMT Elsa Castillo, responded to a severe bleeding emergency in South Pharr. Recognizing the critical nature of the patient’s condition, marked by an altered mental state and dangerously low blood pressure, Shift Captain Andrew Gonzalez quickly delivered whole blood to the scene for a transfusion. Thanks to their timely intervention, the patient’s condition stabilized, with blood pressure improving from 81/40 to 123/61 before being transported to a local hospital. Less than a month after launching the whole blood program, this event marked its first successful application in the field. EMS Chief Danny Ramirez praised the crew’s clinical excellence, stating, “This prompt and innovative care highlights our commitment to providing the best pre-hospital care in the Rio Grande Valley. We are grateful to the Mayor and the City Commission for supporting this program and enabling us to deliver advanced care to our community.” Girola, Castillo, and Gonzalez were presented with the Clinical Excellence Commendation for their exceptional teamwork and quick action that made a profound difference in the patient’s outcome. Pharr EMS continues to set the standard for advanced emergency medical services, reinforcing its mission to ensure a safe and secure community while delivering excellence every day.

Commission Appoints New and Returning Board Members

The Pharr City Commission approved the appointment and reappointment of members to key city boards, reinforcing its commitment to community development and engagement. Romeo Cantu and Marisa Oliva were reappointed to the Keep Pharr Beautiful Board. Additionally, Mario Lizcano, Reynaldo Perez, and Michael Pacheco were reappointed to the Pharr Economic Development Corporation II Board of Directors, joined by newly appointed member Romeo Cantu. These appointments highlight Pharr’s dedication to fostering progress and collaboration across the community.

Featured Events: 

City Pharr’s 116th Birthday Celebration – Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 6 – 8 PM

Who’s ready to party? Pharr’s 116th birthday is here, and we’re throwing a celebration you won’t want to miss! Join us at Downtown Pharr on Thursday, January 16th from 6 – 8 PM for an evening packed with cake, music, games, and so much more. It’s going to be a blast, so grab your family and friends, and let’s celebrate together!

Eco Fest at Jones Box Park – Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 4 – 7 PM

Join the Pharr Youth Eco-Alliance for Eco Fest 2025 on Saturday, January 18th! This exciting event will feature nature exhibitors, family-friendly activities, delicious food vendors, live music, and so much more. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate sustainability and connect with the community as we work together to protect our planet. Mark your calendars and join us for a day of fun and inspiration!