The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City of Pharr Recognizes SB250 and Suzannah Smiles for Spina Bifida Advocacy
The Pharr City Commission and Pharr EMS Assistant Chief Ben Martinez recognized Casey Swanson, Founder/President of Suzannah Smiles, along with Vice President Jackie Swanson, their daughter Suzannah (the nonprofit’s namesake), and Director Jo Lynn Hasler for their advocacy work in support of families affected by Spina Bifida. Mr. Swanson spoke about their annual SB250 fundraising cycling event, an intense two-day ride from Edinburg to San Antonio that brings together athletes and families living with Spina Bifida. “We want to thank the City of Pharr for supporting our event. This was our 15th annual, and we had over 80 cyclists participate,” said Jackie Swanson. “Over the past 15 years, we’ve helped more than 500 children and donated over $600,000,” she added. To learn more visit suzannahsmiles.org.
Pharr City Commission Recognizes Police Chief Juan Gonzalez
The Pharr City Commission, along with City Manager Dr. Jonathan Flores, proudly recognized Police Chief Juan Gonzalez for earning his bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership from South Texas College. “He has a very important job and he continued to persevere and reach his goals while still serving the community in the capacity of Chief of Police and we find that very commendable,” said Flores. “We recognize him today for his academic achievements and for setting the example for all of us here at the City of Pharr,” he added. Chief Gonzalez expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I want to thank you for the recognition here today and everyone in our great city and my colleagues for their support along the way.” He reflected on the significant role the City of Pharr and its leadership played in supporting his academic journey. “Earning a degree in Organizational Leadership was a personal goal of mine for a very long time and accomplishing it while serving in public leadership has made the journey even more meaningful,” he continued.
City of Pharr Reappoints Judge Juan Villescas as Municipal Judge
The Pharr City Commission has officially reappointed Judge Juan Villescas to continue serving as Municipal Judge for the City of Pharr.
Pharr City Commission Appoints Frank Santana to Community Development Council
The Pharr City Commission has approved the appointment of Frank Santana to serve on the City’s Community Development Council (CDC). The CDC plays a vital role in shaping community priorities by holding public meetings, hearings, and workshops to gather input from residents. The council is tasked with reviewing funding proposals submitted by public service agencies, non-profit organizations, and City departments, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support programs that improve quality of life in Pharr.
Featured Events:
Summer Theatre Presents: Disney’s Frozen Jr. – July 17th, 18th, and 19th, starting at 7 PM
Get ready to let it go and experience the magic of Frozen Jr. on stage!
Pharr Parks & Recreation proudly presents their Summer Theatre production of Disney’s Frozen Jr.—a magical journey filled with music, laughter, and heartwarming moments!
Show Dates: July 17th, 18th & 19th Time: 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM) Location: PSJA North High School Auditorium (500 E Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577) Admission: Only $7!
Bring the whole family and join us for an unforgettable evening of frozen fun!
Our Pharr, Our Future Open House – Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM
Ready to win the ultimate BBQ pit giveaway?
Join the City of Pharr Development Services for the Our Pharr, Our Future Open House happening on July 24th from 5 to 7 PM for a chance to win! This interactive event will give residents, visitors, and anyone who works in the city a chance to give their feedback on what services they’d like to see.
Date: Thursday, July 24, 2025 Time: 5 PM – 7 PM Location: Pharr Development and Research Center (850 W. Dicker Rd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Night Under the Stars: Kids Edition – Friday, August 8, 2025, Doors Open at 7:30 PM
Step right up for a magical Night Under the Stars – Kids Edition!
Join us on August 8th at the City Hall Amphitheater for an evening filled with live music, snacks, face painting, and fun surprises the whole family will love!
Date: Friday, August 8, 2025 Time: 8:00 PM Location: City Hall Amphitheater (200 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Bring the kiddos and enjoy a night of wonder under the stars!
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov
Pharr EDC and Region One ESC to Host Check Presentation for Teacher Workforce Partnership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is proud to partner with Region One Education Service Center (ESC) to invest in the future of local education by supporting aspiring teachers in the community. This partnership aims to help residents of Pharr become certified educators through Region One ESC’s Teacher Alternative Certification Program, which removes financial barriers for participants.
The check presentation will take place TODAY, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (1215 S. Cage Blvd.) in Pharr.
This initiative specifically benefits Pharr residents interested in teaching in local classrooms by offering the certification program at no cost to participants.
Victor Perez, President and CEO of the Pharr EDC, said, “Investing in education is an investment in our community’s future. By supporting aspiring teachers, we are not only strengthening our local workforce but also ensuring that our children have access to quality educators right here in Pharr.”
This partnership is part of a broader effort supported by the Rio South Texas Education & Community Development Foundation, working alongside Region One ESC to address the urgent statewide need for certified teachers. Local agencies and school systems are collaborating to provide financial assistance and resources, empowering candidates to achieve their teaching certification and make a lasting impact in Texas classrooms.
The media is invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: Check Presentation for New Teacher Workforce Initiative with Region One ESC
WHEN: Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 2:30 PM
WHERE: Pharr Economic Development Corporation (1215 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov
*Media is strongly encouraged to wear a cold weather coat and closed-toed shoes due to the nature of the venue.
The Tradition Continues!
Press Conference for “Fresh On the Border” Week & Avocado Festival Lineup to Be Announced on Thu., 7/17 @ 11 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr, the Pharr International Bridge, and the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce are excited to announce the “Fresh On the Border” Press Conference to reveal an exciting week of events and this year’s Avocado Festival musical lineup.
The press conference will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Lakeway Foods LLC, located at 10800 S. Palm Dr. in Pharr, Texas.
This event celebrates the importance of fresh produce, trade, community partnerships, and Pharr’s growing role in international commerce.
There will be guest speakers, exciting announcements, and the big reveal of this year’s Avocado Festival artist lineup. It’s a great opportunity to get a sneak peek at what’s ahead for some of the city’s most anticipated annual events.
The media is invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: “Fresh on the Border” Press Conference
WHEN: Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 11 AM
WHERE: Lakeway Foods LLC (10800 S. Palm Drive, Pharr, TX 78577)
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr Cancels Independence Day Festival Scheduled for Friday, July 4th
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr regrets to announce the cancellation of the Independence Day Festival originally scheduled for Friday, July 4, 2025. Due to logistical issues caused by recent rainfall, the event grounds remain too wet to safely host the celebration.
The safety and experience of our residents and visitors is our top priority, and current conditions simply do not allow us to deliver the kind of event our community deserves. We appreciate your understanding and wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day. We look forward to celebrating with you even bigger and better next year!
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
Pharr EDC Wins 2025 Workforce Excellence Award from Texas Economic Development Council
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is proud to announce that it has earned top honors from the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC), receiving the prestigious 2025 Workforce Excellence Award at the TEDC Mid-Year Conference held June 19th in Rockwall, Texas.
Each year, TEDC recognizes communities across the state for their exceptional efforts in workforce development. The awards highlight programs that demonstrate innovation, collaboration, measurable results, and long-term impact. Pharr was selected as the winner in the population category of 40,001 to 100,000, joining other top-performing cities and regions from across Texas.
The Pharr EDC stood out for its efforts to address critical healthcare workforce shortages through a high-impact initiative under the High Demand Job Training (HDJT) Program. In partnership with Rio Grande Valley College and the Lower Rio Grande Valley Workforce Development Board, the EDC helped launch a training project that targeted underserved populations and supported local healthcare employers.
The project leveraged local economic development funds and matched them with funding from the Texas Workforce Commission to train approximately 50 eligible students in high-demand healthcare fields. These included Vocational Nursing, Pharmacy Technician, and Medical Assistant programs.
“We are honored to be recognized for tackling workforce challenges with bold, innovative solutions,” said Pharr City Commissioner Ricardo Medina, who also serves on the Pharr EDC Board of Directors. “By tapping into the potential of our people and creating pathways to opportunity, we are building a workforce that is ready to grow with Pharr.”
Key goals of the project included expanding access to healthcare training, strengthening the talent pipeline for regional employers, and building long-term training capacity through upgraded infrastructure and instructor support.
“This award is a testament to the hard work of our Pharr EDC team and our shared commitment to creating real economic and workforce opportunities,” said Victor Perez, President/CEO of the Pharr EDC. “I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to our partners who believed in this project and worked with us to bring it to life,” added Perez. “We are proud to serve our community and continue building a stronger future for Pharr.”
The TEDC is the largest statewide association of economic development professionals in the country, with more than 1,050 members. Its Workforce Excellence Awards are considered one of the most significant recognitions of local workforce innovation and leadership in Texas.
To learn more about the Pharr Economic Development Corporation and its workforce initiatives, visit www.pharredc.com.
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
MEDIA ADVISORY – Celebrate Pharr’s Independence Day Festival with Spectacular Fireworks and Country Star Trey Gonzalez, Fri., 7/4 @ 7 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, JUNE 16, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is thrilled to invite the public to its 2025 Independence Day Festival, a patriotic evening packed with fun, music, food, and fireworks!
The celebration will take place on Friday, July 4, 2025, from 7 PM to 11 PM at the Allen & William Arnold City/School Park located at 615 W. Eldora Rd., Pharr, TX 78577.
This year’s festivities will feature live performances by Scared the Crow, Midnight Run, and headliner Trey Gonzalez! It’s all followed by a breathtaking fireworks show lighting up the Pharr sky at 10:30 PM.
Families can also enjoy a variety of attractions, including carnival rides, a petting zoo, local vendors, and delicious food.
The Independence Day Festival is free and open to the public. The City of Pharr encourages everyone to bring their friends and families to enjoy an evening of entertainment and celebration in honor of our nation’s independence.
All media and the public are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: City of Pharr Independence Day Festival
WHEN: Friday, July 4, 2025, from 7 PM to 11 PM
WHERE: Allen & William Arnold City/School Park (615 W. Eldora Rd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Get ready to let it go and experience the magic of Frozen Jr. on stage! 
Show Dates: July 17th, 18th & 19th
Time: 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
Location: PSJA North High School Auditorium (500 E Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577)
Admission: Only $7!
