The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, June 6, 2022, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Commission Declares June 3, 2022 as National Gun Violence Awareness Day
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring June 3, 2022, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day. In the wake of multiple tragedies, the fight to end gun violence continues. The City of Pharr joined cities across the nation in renewing its commitment to reduce gun violence and pledged to do all that they can to keep firearms out of the wrong hands and encourage responsible gun ownership to help keep our children safe. Lih-Lan Hu, Founder of RGV Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, accepted the proclamation.
Commission Proclaiming June 19, 2022 as Juneteenth Day
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring June 19, 2022, as Juneteenth Day. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery and Juneteenth is an official State of Texas and federal holiday to honor the legacy of Black Americans past and present. Alphonzo Gatling, Pastor of Mount Olive Worship Center in McAllen and Treasurer for Village of the Valley, accepted the proclamation and thanked the city commission for the recognition of Juneteenth. “We appreciate the support the City of Pharr has given us and the collaboration we have been able to do as of today and in the future,” said Gatling.
Pharr Commissioners, Police, Firefighters, and Leaders Visit Uvalde to Pay Respects and Leave Donations to Help Support Victims
On June 2, 2022, Pharr City Commissioners, Police, Firefighters, and leaders traveled to Uvalde, Texas to pay their respects, deliver donations, and lend their support to the grieving community. The Pharr Fire Department raised over $11,000 during their “Fill the Helmet” fundraising event and went to deliver the funds to the community to help victims and families. The Pharr Police Department also delivered donations and took their K9 therapy dog Ammo who was available to provide comfort, support, and love to the community. Pharr City Commissioners and leaders dropped off teddy bears and visited with city leaders and victims at the memorial site. “This is an incredibly difficult situation for the community, and we hope that we were able to provide some relief and support to those grieving and in need of assistance during this time, said City Commissioner Daniel Chavez. “They are a community just like ours, and we know a tragedy such as this would have such a huge impact on our livelihoods and especially on our children,” he added. The City of Pharr would like to extend our sincerest gratitude and thanks to everyone in our community who took the time to donate money, teddy bears, and other items to the Uvalde community.
Commission Approves Interlocal Agreement between City of Pharr and Hidalgo County Drainage District Number 1
The Pharr City Commission approved an Interlocal Agreement between City of Pharr and Hidalgo County Drainage District Number 1 for the East Las Milpas Road Stormwater Improvements Project. The Hidalgo County Drainage District Number 1 (County) is proposing a stormwater improvement project along East Las Milpas Road that will mitigate flooding along the road, as well as in the Las Haciendas Subdivision. The design is to replace the existing stormwater pipes with larger diameter pipes, and the project will take place within existing City of Pharr (City) right-of-way and easements. The County has already prepared the construction documents and they will procure the contractor as well as provide for one hundred percent of construction costs. The County will also keep the City involved throughout the construction phase to ensure that construction meets the City’s standards. As the project takes place on City-owned right-of-way and easements, an Interlocal Agreement is needed to grant the County permission to do the work. The Hidalgo County Drainage District Number 1 is responsible for one hundred percent of design and construction costs. Once the project is completed, the City of Pharr will be responsible for the costs of performing routine maintenance.
Commission Approves Policing Agreement between the City of Pharr and Vanguard Academy for School Resource Officers and Police K9 Services
The Pharr City Commission approved a Policing Agreement between the City of Pharr and Vanguard Academy for the “School Resource Officer Program” 2022-2023. This Memorandum of Understanding between Vanguard Academy and the Pharr Police Department will allow for collaboration in the creation of a School Resource Officer Program. This partnership is intended to assign Pharr Police Officers at Vanguard Academy Schools to provide policing services. Pharr Police Officers will conduct proactive patrols to ensure the safety and security of the students, parents, educators, and visitors of Vanguard Academy Schools. This item will not incur costs for the City of Pharr because Vanguard Academy will pay the officers for the services provided in the school year.
The Pharr City Commission approved a Policing Agreement between the City of Pharr and Vanguard Academy for Police K9 services. The Pharr Police Department is seeking to enter into an agreement with Vanguard Academy for K9 services on designated campuses. The agreement is necessary to identify areas of responsibility between both agencies. The Vanguard Academy will reimburse the City for the K9 team’s salary for time utilized.
Commission Authorizes City Manager to Execute Service Order with Smartcom Telephone, LLC for Data Network Connectivity at Vanguard Academy Van Gogh Campus for Police Department Staff
The Pharr City Commission authorized City Manager Andy Harvey to execute a service order with Smartcom Telephone, LLC for data network connectivity at Vanguard Academy Van Gogh campus for Police Department staff. Pharr PD staff is needing to occupy an office at Vanguard Academy Van Gogh campus and are needing network connectivity since wireless solutions were not feasible.
Featured Event: Park After Dark – Saturday, June 18, 2022 from 8:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Pharr Parks & Recreation Presents: “Park After Dark”
Come enjoy the Pharr/Vanguard Nature & Birding Center After Dark for FREE* and explore the world of our nocturnal creatures! (*Tickets required)
1025 S Richmond Dr, Pharr, TX 78577
Pick up tickets at the Pharr Civic Center (1101 W. Kelly Ave.) anytime between 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.
