County Issues Curfew; Bridge Remains Open for Trade and Essential Travel; Call Center FAQs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2020
Pharr, Texas – Amid the rapidly-evolving situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), the City of Pharr and Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., will be providing regular updates to keep the media and the public informed as information develops. City officials urge media outlets to please share with their respective reading/viewing/listening audiences.
Hidalgo County Issues Emergency Order and Stay-At-Home Curfew
On Monday, March 23, 2020, Hidalgo County issued an Emergency Order to mitigate the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Among measures included in the order is a mandatory Stay-At-Home curfew, which took effect Monday night. From 10 pm to 5 am, all residents are ordered to remain in their homes and not travel outside the home. The City of Pharr will be enforcing the order, and officials urge citizens to heed the guidance of local, state, and federal authorities to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of everyone.
Pharr International Bridge Remains Open for Trade and Essential Travel
Last week, President Trump announced that in an effort to combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the U.S.-Mexico border will be only open for trade and essential travel. The Pharr International Bridge remains open for trade and “essential travel,” which includes, but is not limited to:
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents returning to the United States;
Individuals traveling for medical purposes (e.g., to receive medical treatment in the United States);
Individuals traveling to attend educational institutions;
Individuals traveling to work in the United States (e.g., individuals working in the farming or agriculture industry who must travel between the United States and Mexico in furtherance of such work);
Individuals traveling for emergency response and public health purposes (e.g., government officials or emergency responders entering the United States to support Federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial government efforts to respond to COVID-19 or other emergencies);
Individuals engaged in lawful cross-border trade (e.g., truck drivers supporting the movement of cargo between the United States and Mexico);
Individuals engaged in official government travel or diplomatic travel;
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and the spouses and children of members of the U.S. Armed Forces, returning to the United States; and
Individuals engaged in military-related travel or operations.Individuals traveling for tourism purposes (e.g., sightseeing, recreation, gambling, or attending cultural events).
The following travel does not fall within the definition of “essential travel” for purposes of this notification:
Individuals traveling for tourism purposes (e.g., sightseeing, recreation, gambling, or attending cultural events).
The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) reminds the public that residents of Mexico traveling across the border for work are considered essential. Workers will have to show the appropriate documents to prove employment and carry the recommended documentation with them at all times when crossing the border.
The City of Pharr has been working closely with binational partners as these new changes go into effect and will continue to keep the public informed as the situation develops.
Pharr Vital Statistics Requests By Appointment Only
Due to public health concerns with COVID-19, effective Tuesday, March 24, 2020, the City of Pharr Vital Statistics will accept birth or death certificate requests by appointment only until further notice. Please call 956-402-4100 to schedule an appointment. To request by mail please visit the City of Pharr website at https://old.pharr-tx.com/vital-statistics/This is a precautionary measure to ensure everyone’s safety. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Pharr Call Center FAQs
The City of Pharr has been staffing a call center to answer questions that residents might have in regard to city operations or general information during the public health emergency related to COVID-19.
The city has compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and Answers, which can be found below:
Q. What time is curfew and what are the hours? A. In accordance with the order implemented by Hidalgo County the times are from 10 pm – 5 am.
Q. If I work at a restaurant/convenience store/grocery store am I allowed to drive to work during curfew hours? A. In accordance with the order implemented by Hidalgo County, yes there are essential services, please have a work ID.
Q. What is considered essential travel in regard to the curfew in effect? A. In accordance with the order implemented by Hidalgo County, essential travel includes going to work (for government workplaces and businesses providing essential services), traveling to and from essential businesses and retail establishments, such as grocery stores, hospitals, and medical facilities, and persons serving a law enforcement role. Please refer to the order for more information.
Q. Who is enforcing the curfew? A. In accordance with the order implemented by Hidalgo County, local and county law enforcement.
Q. Are businesses supposed to be closed? A. In accordance with the order implemented by Hidalgo County, only businesses providing essential services can remain open. Businesses that are considered “non-essential retail establishments” are prohibited from servicing customers. Please refer to the order for more information.
Q. How many people are allowed to be inside of an essential business? A. In accordance with the order implemented by Hidalgo County, essential businesses are exempt from the minimum capacities.
Q. Is my water going to get disconnected if I cannot pay the bill? A. The City of Pharr will not disconnect any water services during this time of public health emergency.
Q. Is my light bill going to get disconnected if I cannot pay the bill? A. Every electricity provider is different. Please contact your electricity provider directly.
Pharr International Bridge Closing to Nonessential Travel, Commerce & Trade to Continue; Pharr Opens Call Center for Coronavirus Info
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2020
Pharr, Texas – Amid the rapidly-evolving situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), the City of Pharr and Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez will be providing regular updates to keep the media and the public informed as information develops. City officials urge media to please share with your reading/viewing/listening audiences.
Pharr International Bridge Closing to Nonessential Travel
President Trump announced this morning that in an effort to combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the U.S.-Mexico border will be closed to nonessential travel. The Pharr International Bridge will be closing all nonessential travel to and from Mexico as per the president’s announcement beginning at midnight tonight.
“The City of Pharr has been proactively approaching our response to COVID-19 and has taken every step necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens,” said Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “We support the President’s decision to close all nonessential travel between the U.S.-Mexico border and applaud his decision to allow our lifeline of commerce and trade to continue,” he continued. “Our country is relying on the delivery of goods from trade and commerce at this very pivotal moment and we will continue to also ensure the safety and well-being of our truck drivers as they continue providing their services to meet our needs here and across the border,” added Hernandez.
U.S. and Mexican officials have mutually determined that nonessential travel between the United States and Mexico poses the additional risk of transmission and spread of COVID-19 and places the populace of both nations at increased risk of contracting COVID-19.
“Accordingly, and consistent with the authority granted in 19 U.S.C. 1318(b)(1)(C) and (b)(2),4 I have determined that land ports of entry along the U.S.-Mexican border will suspend normal operations and process for entry only those travelers engaged in “essential travel,” defined below, for entry into the United States,” said Acting General Counsel from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Chad R. Mizelle in a letter to local leaders. “Given the definition of “essential travel” below, this temporary alteration in land ports of entry operations should not interrupt legitimate trade between the two nations or disrupt critical supply chains that ensure food, fuel, medicine, and other critical materials reach individuals on both sides of the border,” he added.
For purposes of the temporary alteration in certain designated ports of entry operations authorized under 19 U.S.C. 1318(b)(1)(C) and (b)(2), travel through the land ports of entry and ferry terminals along the United States-Mexico border shall be limited to “essential travel” which includes, but is not limited to — • U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents returning to the United States;
• Individuals traveling for medical purposes (e.g., to receive medical treatment in the United States);
• Individuals traveling to attend educational institutions;
• Individuals traveling to work in the United States (e.g., individuals working in the farming or agriculture industry who must travel between the United States and Mexico in furtherance of such work);
• Individuals traveling for emergency response and public health purposes (e.g., government officials or emergency responders entering the United States to support Federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial government efforts to respond to COVID-19 or other emergencies);
• Individuals engaged in lawful cross-border trade (e.g., truck drivers supporting the movement of cargo between the United States and Mexico);
• Individuals engaged in official government travel or diplomatic travel;
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and the spouses and children of members of the U.S. Armed Forces, returning to the United States; and
• Individuals engaged in military-related travel or operations.
The following travel does not fall within the definition of “essential travel” for purposes of this notification:
• Individuals traveling for tourism purposes (e.g., sightseeing, recreation, gambling, or attending cultural events).
The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) wants to remind the public that residents of Mexico traveling across the border for work are considered essential. Workers will have to show the appropriate documents to prove employment and carry the recommended documentation with them at all times when crossing the border.
The City of Pharr has been working closely with binational partners as these new changes go into effect.
“Our strong bonds with our Mexican counterparts are in full effect and we have been meeting daily as new actions and strategies are announced to combat COVID-19,” Hernandez said. “We hope to get the virus under control and will continue to review our situation at all ports of entry,” he said.
“Both our countries know the importance of working together to limit the spread of the virus and ensure the commerce that supports our economy continues to keep flowing,” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said during the morning press conference in Washington, D.C.
The policy will be reviewed in 30 days and adjusted if necessary.
The City of Pharr has opened up a 311 Call Center to consolidate all calls relating to COVID-19. We are here to answer questions and concerns you may have. This line is available to our entire community to include businesses. Please dial 956-402-4311 to get in contact with us, hours of operation are Monday through Sunday 8:00 A.M. – 12:00 A.M. midnight. Se habla Español.
Pharr, Texas – Amid the rapidly-evolving situation regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), the City of Pharr and Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., will be providing regular updates to keep the media and the public informed as information develops. City officials urge media outlets to please share with their respective reading/viewing/listening audiences.
Governor Abbot Issues Executive Orders
Texas Governor Greg Abbott today issued a series of Executive Orders relating to COVID-19 preparedness and mitigation. According to a news release from Governor Abbott’s office, the four orders serve to limit public gatherings and help reduce exposure for people across the state. These orders are in accordance with federal guidelines issued by the President and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and will aid in the state’s efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Order No. 1: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, every person in Texas shall avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people.
Order No. 2: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall avoid eating or drinking at bars, restaurants, and food courts, or visiting gyms or massage parlors; provided, however, that the use of drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options is allowed and highly encouraged throughout the limited duration of this executive order.
Order No. 3: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance.
Order No. 4: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, schools shall temporarily close.”As a medical professional, I am glad to see our state leaders understanding the devastating and widespread impact this pandemic can potentially have, and implementing the necessary measures that it’s going to take to save lives,” said Mayor Hernandez. “These orders follow the guidance given by the CDC to help curb the spread of this disease, and we must all do what we can to help minimize the impact on our citizens,” Hernandez continued.
With these orders, city officials will work accordingly to adjust any city operations and services as necessary and will keep the public informed.
Mayor Hernandez Meets with Pharr Area School District Leaders to Update on COVID-19 and Coordinate Planning Efforts
As the President has declared the coronavirus (COVID-19) a National Emergency, triggering reimbursable relief to be available to the nation’s cities to combat and mitigate the risk of the coronavirus and its impact on the health, safety, and wellbeing of local residents, Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. invited local Pharr area public, private and charter school district leaders to a meeting this morning at City hall to discuss the districts’ plans for continuity of instruction and caring for the health and nutritional needs of students during this crisis. School districts invited to the meeting included Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District, Hidalgo Independent School District, Valley View Independent School District, Vanguard Academy, IDEA Public Schools and The Pharr Oratory of St. Philip Neri School System.
Mayor Hernandez, along with city staff, discussed with the school leaders various topics related to the coronavirus response, including the city’s disaster declaration, school and student safety, emergency protocols, disaster reimbursement that may be available through the city, and to answer and address any questions or concerns the school leaders had in regard to the city’s response to the coronavirus situation.
In attendance were Valley View ISD Board Trustees Anthony Pinal and Efrain Perez, Hidalgo ISD Superintendent Xavier Salinas, IDEA Public Schools President and Superintendent JoAnn Gama, Vanguard Academy Superintendent Dr. Narciso Garcia, and Oratory Director Izkra Diaz.
The City of Pharr and Mayor Hernandez remain committed to providing guidance and support to all school district officials, students, and families during this challenging time, and will continue to share resources and information to ensure everyone is informed and aware to protect the health and safety of our community and our families.
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, March 16, 2020, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Senator Lucio Discusses COVID-19 with Commission
“I am proud to join with you in putting our community first and applaud your leadership and that of the Pharr City Commission for your proactive response to the seriousness of COVID-19 (coronavirus),” said Senator Eddie Lucio Jr. “Our state leaders, including myself, have been working around the clock with the Governor, the President, and our state health leaders to ensure that our state and our country are preparing as is necessary,” he continued. “We are all worried about the impact this will have on our community and economy, but I know that by working together and heeding the warnings and taking the necessary steps to stay safe, we will get through this,” added Lucio.
City and Pharr Area School Districts Announce COVID-19 Plans and Mitigation Measures
Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. announced the city’s collaboration and plan of action with local school districts in preparation for COVID-19 (coronavirus). Leaders from school districts throughout Pharr including Xavier Salinas, Superintendent of Hidalgo ISD, Dr. Narcisco Garcia, Superintendent of Vanguard Academy and Jorge Palacios, PSJA ISD School Board President addressed the commission. Mayor Hernandez also announced that the city is working closely with Valley View ISD and IDEA Public Schools.
“We know that the school districts are already taking proactive measures to limit the contact among students which would accelerate the spread of the virus,” Hernandez said. “We are very appreciative that you all have the foresight to extend the amount of time that students will be out and also for agreeing with the City of Pharr in how we are approaching this very serious health issue,” he added. “The City of Pharr in collaboration with the five school districts will be extending the amount of time that children will not be in school for the next two weeks and if it is necessary to do so to minimize the spread of the virus, we will extend for more time as needed,” Hernandez continued. “No child will attend school in the City of Pharr until this is under control and we thank each of our school partners for working together with us as we aim to protect our students and our citizens,” he stated. “Education is a priority and the City of Pharr will work with all our school districts to help provided needed resources to ensure the success of our students,” he said.
Xavier Salinas, Superintendent of Hidalgo ISD stated, “I just want to say thank you, mayor and commissioners, for your foresight and working with us to make our kids and communities safer.”
“Thank you so much for partnering with Vanguard Academy,” stated Dr. Narcisco Garcia, Superintendent of Vanguard Academy. “As of this morning, we have ordered more hotspots and tablets, so that we can be prepared and ensure that every student has a device, should we need to further extend the time our students remain learning from home,” added. Garcia.
“On behalf of PSJA ISD, we thank you, Mayor and Commissioners, for what you’ve done,” said Jorge Palacios, PSJA ISD School Board President. “We have been working on a plan to make sure that we have the necessary tools for our students to be successful in case something like this did occur and we know that the city is just as concerned and focused on helping us remain safe, secure, and prepared,” continued Palacios.
“Another priority we have worked on is making sure that our students will still have access to meals so that no child will go without meals during this time and I thank each of you in your respective districts for working to make this a priority,” said Hernandez. “The city will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information and developments become available,” he added.
Commission Approves Guidelines and Framework for Neighborhood Empowerment Zone/Business Improvement District
The Pharr City Commission approved an Ordinance setting guidelines and framework for Neighborhood Empowerment Zone/Business Improvement District 2020-01.
Pharr Ratifies Resolution Declaring a Disaster and Public Health Emergency Amid COVID-19
Mayor Hernandez and City Commissioners ratified a Resolution declaring a disaster and public health emergency in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus). Pursuant to Section 418.108(d) of the Government Code, this declaration activates the city emergency management plan. Pursuant to Section 418.020(c) of the Government Code, this declaration authorizes the city to commandeer or use any private property, temporarily acquire, by lease or other means, sites required for temporary housing units or emergency shelters for evacuees, subject to compensation requirements. Pursuant to Section 122.006 of the Health and Safety Code, this declaration authorizes the City to take any actions necessary to promote health and suppress disease, including quarantine, and regulating hospitals, regulating ingress and egress from the City, and fining those who do not comply with the City’s rules. This Declaration of Disaster was made pursuant to the Texas Disaster Act of 1975 and the Texas Government Code Section 418.108(a).
City officials have been taking measures to mitigate the virus, including increasing community awareness providing information and methods for personal health and safety via social media and the City’s website. City leaders ensure the public that the City’s Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Continuity of Government (COG) plans are actively reviewed and updated to ensure that critical government services remain uninterrupted during this crisis.
As one of the measures set in place to assist residents during this disaster, the City of Pharr will not be shutting off water for non-payment during the duration of this crisis.
City officials urge and encourage all residents and families to remain vigilant, follow health and safety precautionary measures, and heed the advice of authorities to stay safe during this disaster.
City of Pharr Postpones All City-Sponsored Events
After much consideration and understanding of the most recent federal government-mandated guidelines and recommendations from the CDC and Surgeon General, the Pharr City Commission has decided to postpone or reschedule public gatherings and will instead resort to conduct virtual-based city events instead of in-person where possible through May of 2020. In efforts to limit the possible spread of the COVID-19 virus, the City of Pharr has elected to forgo our traditional mass gathering events. Events such as St, Patrick’s Day 5k, Easter-egg Hunt and our annual Hub Phestival have all been rescheduled, but they will return bigger and better once it is safe to do so.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MONDAY, MARCH 16, 2020 Pharr, Texas – At the City of Pharr Regular Commission Meeting scheduled for today, Monday, March 16, 2020, at 4:00 pm, Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. will provide an update to Pharr residents regarding corona virus (COVID-19), its impact on our community, and the actions, measures, and recommended guidelines for the public to keep our families safe.
Below, please find his remarks for the general public, the education community, and the business community in Pharr.
TO PHARR RESIDENTS AND FAMILIES
As we begin navigating a new “normalcy” during these times of uncertainty, it is important to remain calm and exercise personal responsibility to care for ourselves, our families, and our community. In Pharr, we have armed ourselves with as much factual information as possible to learn about Corona virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its impact on our community and our lives.
First and foremost, the health, safety, and well being of our residents and families remain our utmost priority.
Our focus has been on raising awareness, sharing factual data and information, and educating our residents on important measures to best prepare to deal with this outbreak. We are remaining in close contact with our local health authorities and doing what we can to ensure accurate and timely information is disseminated to the general public and that our residents are heeding the sound professional advice of authorities.
Our Pharr residents, surrounding Rio Grande Valley community, business partners, and education community remain the focal point of all of our planning and decision-making. We issue this update regarding our actions as of today, Monday, March 16, 2020. This situation is dynamic and fast-changing, and we will adjust our actions to best serve our Pharr residents and families.
We are closely monitoring the latest developments and following the guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS). The Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) guidelines and recommendations on its website (www.CDC.gov) remain the most comprehensive and reliable source of information that the public can refer to in order to help prevent the spread of the virus.
WHAT THE CITY OF PHARR HAS DONE
Declaration of Disaster and Public Health Emergency On Friday, March 13, 2020, I issued a Declaration of Disaster and Public Health Emergency. This allows for the use of all available resources to assist in the City’s response to the public health emergency related to COVID-19. By the declaration, the City suspends rules or regulations that may inhibit or prevent prompt response to this threat for the duration of the incident.
Increased Community Awareness
We have increased community awareness with social media posts providing viable protection methods against COVID-19. To further public awareness, the city has added a page to our website labeled “Preventing COVID-19 in Pharr” devoted to information and resources to keep you and your families informed. For more information, visit https://old.pharr-tx.com/covid-19/ or via the Pharr 3-1-1 app.
Postponing of City-Sponsored Events
After much consideration and understanding of the most recent federal government-mandated guidelines and recommendations from the CDC and Surgeon General, the Pharr City Commission has decided to postpone or reschedule public gatherings and will instead resort to conduct virtual-based city events instead of in-person where possible through May of 2020. In efforts to limit the possible spread of the COVID-19 virus, the City of Pharr has elected to forgo our traditional mass gathering events. Events such as St, Patrick’s Day 5k, Easter-egg Hunt and our annual Hub Phestival have all been rescheduled, but they will return bigger and better once it is safe to do so.
Mitigation Measures
We have taken several active mitigation measures to help you feel confident about your health and safety while you are in our facilities. We have significantly enhanced our cleaning and sanitation efforts in all city facilities. Touch points such as doors, payment stations, computers, etc., are wiped down and cleaned several times a day with a CDC-approved disinfectant solution. Additionally, we have provided alcohol-based hand sanitizer gels in several city buildings. Finally, we have provided increased hygiene signage at all our public city facilities to remind the public to practice good hygiene, practice social distancing and rigorous hand washing. All publications we provide are in both English and Spanish.
Ensuring Continuity of Government Operations
To ensure that critical governmental service stays uninterrupted we have and continue to actively review and update our Continuity of Operations (COOP) and our Continuity of Government Plans (COG). These two plans are the backbone of government planning and address emergencies from an all-hazards approach and establish policy and guidance that ensure government functions continue for its citizens and that personnel and resources are allocated and relocated appropriately. In addition, we have temporarily modified our sick leave policy mandating employees who are sick to stay home and provide doctors clearance in order to return to work. If anyone exhibits symptoms of being sick while at work, management will immediately release them in order to go see their medical provider.
Promoting Prevention
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) remains the public’s best resource for the latest updates, including guidance on prevention and control. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
CDC guidance includes: Cleaning hands often avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth avoiding close contact with people who are sick; and putting distance between yourself and others.
Closely Monitoring the Situation and Taking Action We’re following updates for COVID-19, including guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and our federal, state, county, and local authorities and health officials. We’ll continue to take any and all actions necessary to help protect our community.
FOR OUR EDUCATION COMMUNITY
The City has been in constant communication with our education community and has learned that out of an abundance of caution schools will be transitioning to online education in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
We stand in support of these difficult decisions, because the health, safety, and well being of our community remain our highest priority. We have been assured that our children and educators will have available all the tools, resources, and support they need to continue their learning during this time.
FOR OUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY
We support the efforts of our local and small businesses to continue providing essential services to meet our needs, while at the same time, we urge that safe and protective measures are being taken to curb the transmission of the disease. As guidance begins to point to social distancing, many food establishments may no longer provide in-house dining, but I have received commitments from local restaurants that they will do what they can to provide essential services through drive-thru, take-out, curbside delivery, and third-party deliver to be a support system for families needing to access food services in this manner.
Please rest assured that our national, state, and local leaders are committed to ensuring that our communities and systems get through this uncertain time. Governor Greg Abbott issued a Disaster Declaration for the State of Texas and President Donald J. Trump declared a National Emergency, under which small businesses may be able to access counseling and disaster relief lending through the Small Business Administration under the Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration. If approved for our area, these low-interest loans and long-term repayments, up to $2 million in assistance, will provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they may be experiencing due to COVID-19. For more information, visit www.sba.gov.
We know these may be difficult times, but we are all in this together. We know some of you are exercising social/physical distancing to keep yourselves and your families safe. Others may not have that luxury. We encourage everyone to use their best judgment to determine your own needs, while taking the health and safety of others into consideration.
We will continue to take action with the health and safety of our citizens and community stakeholders remaining our highest priority.
We are resilient, and together, we will get through this.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
