The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Pharr Proclaims April 5, 2026, as Okur-Chung Neurodevelopmental Syndrome Awareness Day
The Pharr City Commission proclaimed April 5, 2026, as Okur-Chung Neurodevelopmental Syndrome (OCNDS) Awareness Day to raise awareness of the ultra-rare genetic condition and support individuals and families affected. OCNDS is a lifelong condition caused by a mutation of the CSNK2A1 gene and is characterized by developmental delays, speech impairments, and other complex medical challenges. The proclamation recognizes the strength of patients, caregivers, and advocates, as well as the ongoing work of medical professionals and researchers advancing awareness and potential treatments. The recognition was presented to Pharr resident Erica Treviño and her son, Jordan, who has OCNDS. “Thank you to the City of Pharr for recognizing and supporting this proclamation and our family as we continue to advocate for my son and spread awareness about his rare condition,” said Treviño. Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez and the Pharr City Commission expressed their support for Jordan and working together to share his story and advocacy with the community.
Commission Recognizes Jaythan Barrera as the March Trailblazer of the Month
The Pharr City Commission recognized Jaythan Barrera of the Information Technology Department as the March Pharr Way Trailblazer of the Month for his exceptional customer service, leadership, and dedication to serving the community. Barrera was nominated by multiple departments, reflecting his commitment to supporting City operations across all areas. “Jaythan works with all our city departments, and we are proud to see that other departments nominated him, and we are grateful for his work and dedication,” said Jose Peña, Director of Information & Technology. Barrera expressed his appreciation for the recognition and gratitude for the honor. Congratulations, Jaythan!
City Sees Continued Economic Growth Through Sales Tax Revenue
The City of Pharr continues to see positive growth in sales tax collections. Year-to-date collections have increased by 5.08% compared to the same time last year, while February collections showed a slight decrease of 1.79% compared to February 2025. For the current fiscal year (FY 2025–2026), collections are up 6.5% overall and are currently 4.47% ahead of the projected budget, reflecting strong and steady economic activity in the city.
City Commission Adopts Ten Texas Traits of Good Government
The Pharr City Commission approved a resolution adopting the Ten Texas Traits of Good Government and authorized staff to apply for the Balanoff Good Government Award. The traits include being respectful, responsive, effective, transparent, competent, ethical, lawful, innovative, economical, and accountable. The City of Pharr is applying for the award, which recognizes cities that demonstrate strong leadership and good governance.
Commission Appoints Members to Animal Shelter Advisory Committee
The Pharr City Commission approved a resolution appointing and re-appointing four members to the Pharr Animal Shelter Advisory Committee following the expiration of previous terms. The Commission appointed Dr. Yarytza Rivera, David Fernandez, Daniel Castro, and Elizabeth Diaz to serve new three-year terms, continuing efforts to support and enhance animal welfare services in the community.
Featured Events:
Paint the Park – Painting Period: April 4th – April 24th
PHARR, IT’S TIME TO PAINT THE PARK!
Celebrate Earth Day 2026 by turning a parking space into a work of art at this FREE, all-ages community competition! This year’s theme: “Birds of Pharr.”
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Kenia Gomez
Phone: (956) 769-1006
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr to Host Annual Easter Eggstravaganza with Over 18,000 Eggs on Sat., 3/28 @ 9 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr invites families across the community to join in the fun at its annual Easter Eggstravaganza. There will be plenty of Easter festivities for the entire family, including the popular Egg Scavenger Hunt.
The event will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Allen & William Arnold City/School Park (615 W. Eldora Rd.) in Pharr. Registration begins at 9:00 AM, and the Egg Hunt starts at 10:00 AM.
Grab your baskets and get ready, this year’s celebration will feature over 18,000 eggs, along with carnival rides, moon jumps, a petting zoo, prizes, snacks, and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny.
All media and the public are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: City of Pharr Easter Eggstravaganza
WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 2026
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]
City of Pharr to Host S.A.F.E.R. Home Initiative Focused on Fire Prevention and Emergency Preparedness on Mon., 3/30 @ 10 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr Fire Department, in collaboration with the Pharr Public Health Department and the Valley Association for Independent Living (VAIL), will host the S.A.F.E.R. Home Initiative on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Jose “Pepe” Salinas Memorial Recreational Center, located at 1011 W. Kelly Ave., in Pharr, Texas.
The seminar, titled S.A.F.E.R., is an acronym for Safety Awareness, Fire prevention, and Emergency Readiness. It is designed to equip residents with the knowledge and tools to stay safe and prepared.
This initiative aims to strengthen community preparedness by providing valuable information and resources, with a particular focus on assisting elderly, homebound, and individuals with special needs. Attendees will learn practical steps to reduce fire risks in the home, develop emergency plans, and better understand available support services within the community.
Media representatives will have the opportunity to capture visuals, engage with organizers, and learn more about how this program supports vulnerable populations.
For more information, call the Pharr Public Health Department at (956) 402-4652.
Registration is encouraged but not required. Register here.
DETAILS
WHAT: S.A.F.E.R. Home Initiative
WHEN: Monday, March 30th, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
WHERE: Jose “Pepe” Salinas Memorial Recreational Center (1011 W. Kelly Ave., Pharr, Texas)
City of Pharr Honors Women’s Leadership and Impact at Annual International Women’s Day Celebration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr recognized International Women’s Day with its annual Women’s Day Celebration, embracing this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” and honoring the invaluable contributions of women across the city and community.
The celebration began with a meaningful act of service, as City of Pharr employees donated women’s clothing to support members of the local community. This initiative reflected the spirit of giving and unity that continues to define the City’s workforce and the powerful role women play in uplifting others.
The event featured a distinguished panel discussion highlighting women of distinction from across the community. Moderated by KRGV News Anchor Kristine Galvan, the conversation offered meaningful insight into the panelists’ own experiences, leadership perspectives, and professional journeys across diverse industries. Panelists included Natasha del Barrio, CEO of Bert Ogden and Fiesta Auto Group; Edna Posada, Owner of Spa La Posada; Cynthia Garza-Reyes, Deputy City Manager for the City of Pharr; and Dori Contreras, Retired Chief Justice of the Texas Thirteenth District Court of Appeals.
The luncheon concluded with the announcement of the City of Pharr’s 2026 Woman of the Year, Cynthia Garza-Reyes. With more than a decade of service with the City of Pharr and over 20 years in public service, Garza-Reyes has led and supported transformative initiatives that continue to shape the City of Pharr, including the expansion of the Pharr International Bridge and the development of Pharr Connect. Her leadership has not only advanced critical infrastructure and innovation but has also opened doors and set a standard of excellence for women in public service.
“Cynthia Garza-Reyes represents the very best of leadership in the City of Pharr,” said City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores. “Her vision, dedication, and commitment to our residents have been a catalyst for growth and expansion in Pharr,” he added. “She has made a lasting impact on our organization and continues to inspire women across our workforce and community. We are proud to recognize her as our Woman of the Year.”
This year’s International Women’s Day Celebration was a great success, and the City of Pharr extends its sincere appreciation to all panelists and those who helped make the luncheon both meaningful and inspiring. The City of Pharr is committed to empowering women across our community and fostering a culture of growth, opportunity, and inclusion.
City of Pharr Announces Leadership Transition in Office of City Communications
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, MARCH 3, 2026
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr announces a leadership transition within its Office of City Communications, as two valued team members rise into new leadership roles. This advancement reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to fostering professional development while strengthening communications and operational excellence.
Yuri Gonzalez, who led the Office of City Communications since 2021, is taking on a new role as Director of International Commercial Development. Having already collaborated with the Pharr Economic Development Corporation and the Pharr International Bridge on multiple projects, Gonzalez will continue to strengthen international partnerships and drive commercial growth.
With over 15 years of experience in radio, news, and municipal government communications, including leading city government media campaigns, this new role represents an exciting opportunity for professional growth. It allows her to further contribute to the city’s economic development efforts and international initiatives.
“I’m incredibly grateful to our city leadership for the trust and opportunity to serve as Director of International Commercial Development,” said Gonzalez. “I’m excited to build on our momentum, strengthen international partnerships, and help position our city for continued economic growth and international impact.”
Stepping into the role of Director in the Office of City Communications is Kenia Gomez, who joined the organization as Assistant Director in 2025. She brings nearly 10 years of experience in local news and municipal government communications, with expertise in media relations and strategic communications.
“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to take on this role and keep our community informed and engaged,” said Gomez. “It’s a privilege to highlight the important projects happening across the City of Pharr, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside our exceptional communications team.”
“It is incredibly rewarding to see Yuri and Kenia step into these new roles,” said City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores. He added, “Their dedication, resilience, and commitment to serving the City of Pharr exemplify the leadership culture we strive to build. I am proud of their achievements and excited to watch them continue to thrive.”
The City of Pharr looks forward to this exciting transition, celebrating Yuri Gonzalez’s new role as Director of International Commercial Development and welcoming Kenia Gomez as the new Director of the Office of City Communications.
All media inquiries should be directed to Kenia Gomez.
Pictured are (L to R): Kenia Gomez, Director of City Communications
and Yuri Gonzalez, Director of International Commercial Development
Scan the QR code to register or click the link below 
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Registration starts at 5:45 AM | Race starts at 7 AM
Pharr Natatorium (3001 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
