The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Recognizes Trailblazer of the Year
The Pharr City Commission and Utilities Director Ruben Rosales proudly recognized Utility Billing Head Cashier, Elik Betancourt as the recipient of the Trailblazer of the Year Award, honoring her outstanding service, dedication, and positive impact on the organization. Rosales praised her commitment and attitude, noting that she consistently brings energy and enthusiasm to her work. “She comes to work with a smile on her face, she’s energetic, and she truly looks forward to helping people, which is very important to the type of work we do,” said Rosales. A standout member of the Utilities Department, Betancourt is known for her willingness to go above and beyond in serving residents and supporting her team. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and pride in serving the community. “I want to thank you for this award, and I look forward to continuing to serve our Pharr community for many more years,” Betancourt said. Congratulations and thank you for your service!
Commission Recognizes Graduates of the Certified Public Manager Program
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores proudly recognized James Lugo and Ashley Melendez for successfully completing the nationally accredited Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program through the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). The rigorous 14-month program is designed specifically to strengthen leadership, management, and problem-solving skills for public sector and nonprofit professionals. Dr. Flores commended both employees for their dedication and commitment to professional growth. “They both completed this rigorous program, and we are very proud of their accomplishment,” said Dr. Flores. Melendez expressed her appreciation for the opportunity, highlighting the importance of continued learning in public service. “I believe it’s really important as leaders that we continue to learn and grow, and to work for an organization that supports that is truly amazing,” she said. Lugo also shared his gratitude, adding, “Thank you for allowing us to achieve this milestone and continue growing in our ability to serve our community.” The Pharr City Commission congratulated both graduates for their achievements and praised their continued dedication to excellence in public service.
City Recognizes Hilda Pedraza for Completion of the Women in Leadership Program
The Pharr City Commission recognized Assistant City Manager Hilda Pedraza for completing the Women in Leadership Program at Houston Christian University. The comprehensive program, designed by and for women leaders, focuses on developing authentic leadership skills, advancing professional growth strategies, and fostering both personal and professional development. City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores congratulated Pedraza on her achievement, noting her continued commitment to professional excellence while serving the community. “We congratulate Hilda on completing this rigorous program and for continuing to invest in her professional development while working hard for our city and community,” said Dr. Flores. Pedraza expressed appreciation for the opportunity and shared her connection to the program. “Thank you for the opportunity. I am not only a student, but also a board member of the program,” said Pedraza. “This experience reinforced my belief that leadership is about growth, service, and lifting others.” Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., also praised Pedraza’s accomplishment and dedication. “We are proud to see the driven talent within our city and the progress our leaders continue to make as they strive to grow professionally,” added Mayor Hernandez.
City Commission Reappoints Members to Keep Pharr Beautiful Board
The Pharr City Commission approved a resolution reappointing Romeo Cantu and Marisa Oliva to the Keep Pharr Beautiful Board. Both board members expressed their interest in continuing to serve, and the Commission welcomed their continued commitment to supporting beautification, sustainability, and community pride initiatives throughout the City of Pharr.
Featured Event: City of Pharr 117th Birthday Celebration – Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 6 PM to 8 PM
Pharr is turning 117, and you’re invited to the party!
Join us downtown as we celebrate our city’s birthday with cake, music, games, and family-friendly fun. Bring your friends, bring your family, and help us celebrate everything that makes Pharr home.
PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact:
Michael L. Martinez
(956) 877-5716 [email protected]
Pharr PD Mental Health Unit to Host 5th Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair on Fri., 9/12 @ 7 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department’s Mental Health Unit invites the community and media to the 5th Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 7:00 – 9:00 PM at the Pharr Vanguard Academy Nature & Birding Center (1025 S. Richmond Drive) in Pharr.
This event supports suicide prevention and awareness, aiming to break the stigma surrounding mental health, and offers community members education, resources, and connection in a compassionate environment.
According to the CDC, the age-adjusted suicide rate in Texas was approximately 14.4 per 100,000 people in 2022.
“The Stick by Me Fair is about more than awareness; it’s about letting people know they are not alone,” said Pharr Police Chief Juan Gonzalez. “Mental health is just as important as physical health, and by coming together as a community, we can break the silence, provide hope, and support those who may be going through a difficult time.”
“Stick by Me” will feature mental health resource booths, guest speakers, a glowstick vigil, and a guided trail walk offering supportive activities to engage the community.
For more information, please contact Officer Nick Perez at [email protected].
Admission is free and open to the public.
DETAILS
WHAT: 5th Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair
WHEN: Friday, September 12, 2025, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
WHERE: Pharr Vanguard Academy Nature & Birding Center 1025 S. Richmond Drive, Pharr, TX 78577
Pharr Police Department to Host Pharr Night Out 2025 Featuring Family Fun, Food, and School Supply Giveaways
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is excited to host Pharr Night Out 2025 tonight, August 5, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Pharr Town Center, Main Event Parking Lot, located at 500 N. Jackson Rd.
This annual community event is part of the nationwide National Night Out initiative, which aims to build stronger relationships between local law enforcement and the community they serve.
Pharr Night Out is a free, family-friendly evening filled with music, food, market vendors, and fun activities for all ages. Attendees will enjoy interacting with Pharr police officers, city staff, participating in fun games and activities, and receiving school supplies.
For more information, please contact Officer Steven Guerrero at (956) 899-6729 or Officer David Treviño at (956) 369-4625.
The public and media are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: Pharr Night Out 2025
WHEN: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
WHERE: Pharr Town Center, Main Event Parking Lot – (500 N. Jackson Rd, Pharr, TX 78577)
Pharr Police Department to Host Memorial Ceremony Honoring Fallen Law Enforcement Personnel on Thu., 5/15 @ 9 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr Police Department invites members of the media to attend a Memorial Ceremony dedicated to remembering and honoring law enforcement personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Pharr EMS Headquarters, 3000 N. Cage Blvd, Pharr, TX 78577. Breakfast will be served beginning at 8:30 AM, with the official program running from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
This formal and solemn event will feature a commemorative program with remarks from department leadership and a keynote address by U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez. The ceremony will include a 21-gun salute, the playing of Taps, a reading of the names of the fallen, and a ruck for the fallen.
DETAILS: WHAT: Pharr Police Department Memorial Ceremony WHEN: Thursday, May 15, 2025 TIME: Breakfast at 8:30 AM | Program from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM WHERE: Pharr EMS Headquarters (3000 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, May 5, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Proclaims May 5th as South Texas Border Chapter Master Naturalist Day
The Pharr City Commission proudly approved a proclamation declaring May 5, 2025, as South Texas Border Chapter Texas Master Naturalist Day, honoring the chapter’s dedication to conservation, education, and community service. Anne Mayville, President of the South Texas Border Chapter Master Naturalist, accepted the proclamation alongside other board members. Established in 2015, the South Texas Border Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist program serves Hidalgo, Starr, and Cameron Counties, with more than 95 active members volunteering as nature guides, educators, citizen scientists, gardeners, and conservationists. Within the City of Pharr, members have contributed over 2,000 volunteer hours since the chapter’s founding, generating an estimated economic impact of more than $48,000. Their efforts have directly benefited more than 500 residents through hands-on community outreach, including local events like Eco Fest and stewardship projects at Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge and native plant gardens. “We are honored to accept this proclamation by the City of Pharr which has worked alongside us to support the reforestation of plants, insects, birds, and wildlife that make the Rio Grande Valley such a unique and diverse ecosystem,” said Mayville. She added, “We are celebrating our 10th anniversary this year and look forward to our continued growth and contribution to the Rio Grande Valley.” The City of Pharr commends the chapter’s commitment to preserving our natural resources and educating future generations about the importance of environmental stewardship.
Pharr Celebrates May 4-10, 2025 as Professional Municipal Clerks Week
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation recognizing May 4–10, 2025, as Professional Municipal Clerks Week, honoring the critical role that municipal clerks play in ensuring effective, transparent, and responsive local government. As one of the oldest and most vital positions in public service, the Office of the City Clerk serves as the professional link between citizens, elected officials, and other government agencies. The proclamation was proudly accepted by Imelda Perez, Pharr City Clerk, alongside her dedicated team members, Alessandra Garcia and Jessica Gomez, who were present to be recognized. “Our role as municipal clerks is important to the everyday governance of the City of Pharr, and we are proud of our work,” said Perez. “We are guardians of public trust, keepers of history, and facilitators of democracy,” she added. The City Clerk’s Office upholds the highest standards of integrity, impartiality, and service, managing essential functions such as records preservation and public access. The City of Pharr is proud to acknowledge the dedication of municipal clerks to continual professional development and their commitment to excellence in public administration.
City Recognizes Police Memorial Week, May 11–17
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring the week of May 11-17, 2025, as “Pharr Police Memorial Week” to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers. This coincides with Peace Officers’ Memorial Day on May 15, designated by Congress and the President to remember officers who have died in the line of duty. With approximately 900,000 law enforcement officers nationwide, including the 136 members of the Pharr Police Department, the week acknowledges the over 24,000 officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The City of Pharr honors the service of law enforcement officers in our community and in communities across the nation. The proclamation was accepted by Chief of Police Juan F. Gonzalez and members of the Pharr Police Department, as they join in honoring fallen heroes and recognizing the dedication of law enforcement officers across the nation. “On behalf of our agency, we extend our sincere appreciation for your support of this proclamation as we unite to honor the memories of fallen officers and their families,” said Chief Gonzalez. He added, “It’s a solemn week in which we mourn the loss of our fallen heroes, reflect on their courageous sacrifice, and honor the enduring legacy of those who gave their lives in the line of duty. Their legacies will never be forgotten. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to all law enforcement officers for their unwavering dedication to safeguarding the safety, security, and freedom of our communities.”
City Recognizes Leah Adinari Guerra Hernandez for Receiving a Golden Presidential Volunteer Service Award
The Pharr City Commission proudly recognizes Leah Adinari Guerra Hernandez for receiving the prestigious Golden Presidential Volunteer Service Award. The award is presented to individuals who meet specific service hour requirements, with the Gold level recognizing those who have demonstrated exceptional service, typically contributing over 500 hours of volunteer work in a year. This esteemed award was presented to Leah by Regina’s Modeling Academy during the city meeting in recognition of her outstanding commitment to her community through selfless service, unwavering dedication, and exceptional leadership. As a role model to her peers, Leah consistently leads by example, inspiring other young ladies to pursue excellence. Beyond her community contributions, Leah is also a standout student at Allen and William Arnold Elementary, excelling in all subjects and earning recognition as a top AR Reader. Her impressive achievements both inside and outside the classroom are a true reflection of her character, dedication, and drive. The City of Pharr is proud to celebrate Leah’s accomplishments and look forward to seeing the incredible impact she will continue to make. Congratulations, Leah, and keep shining bright!
Featured Events:
Our Pharr, Our Future Open House – Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Join us for the Our Pharr, Our Future Open House!
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and help shape the future of our city! Enter for the chance to win a FREE generator! Come explore interactive stations and give your input on key topics like transportation, parks and community.
It’s a family-friendly event with: Raffle prizes Generator Giveaway Fun activities for all ages! Don’t miss out on your chance to help build the future of Pharr!
May 13, 2025 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Jose “Pepe Salinas” Recreation Center (1011 W. Kelly Ave.)
Pharr Warrior Race – Saturday, May 10, 2025, Starting at 7:00 AM
YOU CAN STILL REGISTER!
The Pharr Warrior Race is almost here! Mark your calendars for May 10, 2025, and put your strength, endurance, and determination to the test!
100m Swim | 6-Mile Bike | 2-Mile Run | Obstacle Course Cash prizes & medals for top finishers!
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
The Final Free Meal Giveaway by Pharr & Salvation Army is TONIGHT, 4/4 at 6 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, APRIL 4, 2025
Pharr, Texas – Today marks the last day of thethree-day FREE Drive-Thru Food Distribution hosted by the City of Pharr in partnership with the Salvation Army. This effort is in response to recent flooding that impacted our community, providing essential assistance to those in need.
The final distribution will take place TONIGHT, Friday, April 4, at 6:00 PM at Jones Box Park (1201 W. Rosa Ln., Pharr, TX 78577) and will continue while supplies last.
This event is open to all who need assistance, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required—just drive up to receive food support.
The City of Pharr remains committed to supporting our community during this challenging time. If you or someone you know needs assistance, don’t miss this final opportunity!
The public and media are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: Last Day of FREE Food Distribution
WHEN: Friday, April 4, 2025; 6 PM (*until supplies last)
WHERE: Jones Box Park (1201 W. Rosa Ln., Pharr, TX 78577)
Pharr is turning 117, and you’re invited to the party!
Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
Location: Downtown Pharr (200 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Raffle prizes
Generator Giveaway
Fun activities for all ages!
Don’t miss out on your chance to help build the future of Pharr!
May 13, 2025
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Jose “Pepe Salinas” Recreation Center (
100m Swim | 6-Mile Bike | 2-Mile Run | Obstacle Course
Cash prizes & medals for top finishers!
Sign up today! Scan the QR code or click on the link to register: 
