The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, October 17, 2022, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Announces Sales Tax Collection Report for October 2022
Pharr Interim City Manager Anali Alanis announced that the City of Pharr Sales Tax Collection Report for October 2022 shows an increase of 10.22% year-to-date true growth compared to the same period last year (2021) and 14.97% compared to last October 2021 payments.
City Proclaims November 7-11, 2022 as Municipal Court Week
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring November 7-11, 2022 as Municipal Court Week. The City of Pharr joins municipal courts, city councils, and communities throughout Texas in showing appreciation for the dedicated municipal judges, court clerks, court administrators, prosecutors, bailiffs, and warrant officers who comprise the Texas municipal courts. The City of Pharr recognizes how much municipal courts do, and acknowledges the important role that local courts and their personnel play in the criminal justice system and the larger community. City of Pharr Municipal Court Judge Juan Villescas and municipal court staff were present to accept the proclamation.
City Declares October 17-21, 2022 as Chamber of Commerce Week
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 17-21, 2022 as Chamber of Commerce Week. This week recognizes the more than 600 local chambers of commerce in Texas that provide a critical link in the communities they serve by fostering a vibrant business environment, promoting local projects, and paving the way for small businesses to thrive. The commission acknowledged the important role of the chamber to the local business community. Throughout the past year, the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce has hosted local and regional events, workshops and seminars, provided assistance to numerous businesses considering locating to our community, handled a variety of workforce-related issues, held job fairs, networking events, vendor markets, and more to promote small businesses, as well as educational events. The proclamation was accepted by Marcela Beas, President of the Pharr Greater Chamber of Commerce, along with board members and business members.
City Extends Interlocal Agreement for the PSJA
Tri-City Pedestrian Safety Improvements Project
The Pharr City Commission approved Amendment No. 1 to the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Alamo, City of San Juan, and Pharr-San Juan-Alamo (PSJA) Independent School District for the PSJA Tri-City Pedestrian Safety Improvements Project Phase I. The interlocal agreement (ILA) with the City of San Juan, City of Alamo and PSJA ISD expired on July 14, 2022. Amendment No. 1 extends the ILA for an additional three (3) years for a new expiration date of July 14, 2025.
City Renews Agreement with the Pharr Community Theatre FY2022-2023
The Pharr City Commission approved the renewal of the agreement between the City of Pharr and the Pharr Community Theatre for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023.
City Approves MOU between Hidalgo PD and Pharr PD over Jurisdictional and Interagency Support
The Pharr City Commission approved a Memorandum of Understanding between Hidalgo Police Department and Pharr Police Department over Jurisdictional and Interagency Support. This partnership is intended to outline each department’s responsibility regarding Valley View ISD Schools in both cities. The Hidalgo Police Department has agreed to provide School Resource Officers for Valley View Schools within Pharr jurisdiction. The Hidalgo Police Department has agreed to continue with jurisdiction of all areas outside of school property.
Our annual “Salute to Veterans” parade and fireworks show is approaching!
Registration is NOW OPEN for your business or organization to participate in this year’s parade!
Pharr Celebrates Start of the 2022-2023 Produce Season
Traditional Cutting of the Fruit – Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and special guests including Texas State Senators Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and Eddie Lucio Jr., Chairman of the Pharr International Bridge Board Edgar Delgadillo and board members, and Pharr Bridge Director Luis Bazan participate in the ceremonial cutting of the fruit.
Pharr, Texas – City of Pharr officials and Pharr International Bridge leaders celebrated the start of the 2022-2023 Produce Season by welcoming guests to this year’s themed event “A Taste of Trade” which featured an array of brightly displayed fresh fruits and vegetables and local chefs preparing meal samplings out of the displays of produce. The event was attended by elected officials, dignitaries, produce growers, importers, distributors, and consumers representing the United States and Mexico.
The Pharr International Bridge continues to be the #1 bridge for produce crossings in the nation, with over 65% of all produce from Mexico crossing through Pharr.
“We feed the world through our bridge,” said Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “Everything goes from this bridge throughout the United States from the East Coast, Midwest, and ultimately winds up in other countries such as Germany and we are so proud of that,” he continued. “Today we also recognize and celebrate the hard work of our bridge staff and board for the great success our port of entry continues to experience,” added Hernandez. “It takes a team and we have been working diligently with many partners to ensure that our bridge continues to have the infrastructure, resources, and funding to meet our future needs,” he said.
On average, the Pharr International Bridge crosses 200,000 produce shipments per year. Fresh fruits and vegetables including avocados, pineapples, mangoes, tomatoes, carrots, and more make their way through the bridge every day.
“Each year our annual event continues to grow and we are so proud to have the opportunity to showcase our trading power, highlight our bi-national partnerships, and celebrate our produce ranking amongst our many produce and logistic partners,” said Bazan. As part of our theme “A Taste of Trade”, we showcased several dishes prepared by local chefs and restaurants using fresh produce from our bridge,” he added. “This is something new we added this year, and we hope everyone enjoyed visually seeing just how many of our produce products cross through Pharr,” he continued.
The U.S. has consistently remained Mexico’s No.1 trading partner for produce and goods. Pharr’s ideal geographical location has resulted in a successful and fruitful partnership between the two countries and in the growth of their produce trading capacity which breaks new records year after year.
“Trade with Mexico supports almost 500,000 jobs,” said Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa during his remarks. “Texas could not be so strong economically without Mexico being a partner,” added Sen. Hinojosa.
The celebration concluded with the ceremonial cutting of the fruit and the distribution of fresh produce to guests.
Commission Proclaims October 5, 2022 as World Teachers’ Day
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 5, 2022 as World Teachers’ Day. World Teachers’ Day is held annually on October 5 and acknowledges the work and contributions of teachers. Ana Gonzalez, Executive Director of Teach For America Rio Grande Valley, and Rey Perez from Vanguard Academy accepted the proclamation. The City of Pharr encourages members of our community to personally express appreciation to our teachers and display a light blue ribbon outside your homes or businesses during the week of October 5 as a symbol of support for our educators.
Commission Proclaims October 9-15, 2022 as Fire Prevention Week
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 9-15, 2022 as Fire Prevention Week. The 2022 Fire Prevention Week theme, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape.” effectively serves to remind the citizens of Pharr that it is important to have a home fire escape plan. Pharr Fire Chief Pilar Rodriguez and members of the Pharr Fire Department accepted the proclamation. Chief Rodriguez reminded the public to plan and practice a home fire escape for Fire Prevention Week 2022 and to participate in the public safety activities that the Pharr Fire Department has planned throughout the week.
Commission Proclaims October 2022 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 2022 as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. The City of Pharr urges all residents to work toward ending domestic violence by empowering people to develop healthier relationships, assisting victims in accessing information and supportive services they need, and creating better and more resources for people in need to promote awareness and prevention of the threat caused by domestic and family violence. Members of the Pharr Police Department including Sergeant Danny Garcia, Domestic Violence Coordinator Alan Cantu, Crimes Victims Liason Mario Garza, and Human Trafficking Liason Nancy Gonzalez were on hand to accept the proclamation. Pharr PD would like to remind the public that they are always available and urge everyone to be vigilant and report domestic violence. The department will be holding a candlelight vigil in support of domestic violence victims on October 5, 2022.
Commission Proclaims October 2022 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 2022 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This October, as we display pink ribbons or wear pink clothing to raise awareness, we recognize breast cancer survivors, those currently battling the disease, friends, and families of diagnosed patients and applaud the efforts of our medical professionals and researchers working to find a cure. Mario Lizcano, Administrator of Corporate affairs for DHR Health, and members of the Advance Care Center Team accepted the proclamation and thanked the commission for their support. Mayor Hernandez reminded the public of the importance of annual screening.
Commission Proclaims October 2022 as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 2022 as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This year’s national campaign theme — “See Yourself in Cyber” — demonstrates that while cybersecurity may seem like a complex subject, ultimately, it’s really all about people, and is focused on providing information and resources to help educate the public, and ensure all individuals and organizations make smart decisions whether on the job, at home or at school – now and in the future! Pharr IT Director Jose J. Peña and staff accepted the proclamation.
Commission Proclaims October 2022 as Community Planning Month
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 2022 as Community Planning Month. National Community Planning Month publicly recognizes the participation and dedication of the members of planning commissions and other citizen planners who have contributed their time and expertise to the improvement of the City of Pharr. Members of the Pharr Planning and Zoning Commission were in attendance to accept the proclamation. “We thank you for your dedication and service to our citizens and community,” said Mayor Hernandez.
Commission Proclaims October 2022 as The Start of the Produce Season Month
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 2022 as The Start of the Produce Season Month. Pharr Bridge Director Luis Bazan with special guests Dante Galeazzi – CEO/President – Texas International Produce Association, Brenda O’Camp – representative of PickleMex, and Tony Godinez accepted the proclamation. As the number one produce bridge in the nation for over five years, the Pharr International Bridge continues to break import records for fresh produce grown in Mexico. In 2021, Pharr crossed nearly 200,000 shipments of fresh produce, which equals to over 30 percent of the produce imports monthly, that is over 60% for the state and over 30% for the nation on a yearly basis. This year’s annual Start of the Produce Season event, which is themed “A Taste of Trade” will take place on October 8, 2022.
Commission Approves Agreement with National Wildlife Federation
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved an Agreement with the National Wildlife Federation for the donation of native seeds of various fauna species to be distributed at designated park areas throughout the City of Pharr.
Featured Event: Trail of Terror – October 21-22, 2022, from 7 pm to 10:30 pm
Trail of Terror RETURNS to the City of Pharr for an all-new haunt! Discover the horror that lies deep in the trails of the Pharr/Vanguard Nature & Birding Center this October! Admission is FREE!
Pharr to Host Celebration to Initiate the Start of the 2022-2023 Produce Season on Thursday, 10/6 @ 10 am
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr and the Pharr International Bridge will host a special event “A Taste of Trade” to initiate the start of the 2022-2023 Produce Season and will celebrate the occasion alongside produce growers, importers, distributors, and consumers from the United States and Mexico.
The annual “Start of the Produce Season” event will take place at 10 am on Thursday, October 6, 2022, at the Pharr International Bridge (9900 S. Cage, Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577).
“The Pharr International Bridge continues to remain the #1 Produce gateway in the nation,” said Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “We are proud of the outstanding work our bridge director, board, and staff continue to do in working with all our partners to continue to expand growth and access through our bridge and we look forward to another record-setting season,” Hernandez added.
Pharr city officials, as well as special guests, dignitaries, and other notable representatives from the produce industry on both sides of the border, are expected to attend. The event will be followed by the annual cutting of the fruit and a “Taste of Trade” sample tasting.
The Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge is among the nation’s largest land ports for fruits and vegetables. Currently, the Pharr International Bridge crosses more than 65% of all the fresh produce from Mexico through Texas, including avocados, strawberries, blueberries, pineapples, tomatoes, oranges, grapefruits, asparagus, and more. Imports of produce topped more than $700 million in January.
View Start of the Produce Season preview video here:
DETAILS
WHAT: Celebration to Initiate the Start of the 2022-2023 Produce Season
WHEN: Thursday, October 6, 2022, from 10 am to 12 pm
WHERE: Pharr International Bridge (9900 S. Cage, Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Registration is Now Open for the City of Pharr Salute to Veteran’s Parade & Fireworks Show
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr has announced that registration is now open for the city’s annual Pharr Salute to Veteran’s Parade and Fireworks Show. The parade will take place at 4:30 pm on Saturday, November 5, 2022, in Downtown Pharr (200 S. Cage Blvd.) and the Fireworks Show will begin at 8 pm.
If you have a business or organization and would like to participate in this year’s parade you are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
Come out and show your gratitude to the men and women who have served our nation. Sport your stars and stripes with pride and bring out the red, white, and blue in you!
Don’t forget to watch our spectacular firework show as night falls! Fireworks will be launched from (North Display) N Raider Drive and (South Display) W Las Milpas Rd.
Veterans Parade Registration Form
Scan this QR code to Register TODAY!!!
Pharr 16 de Septiembre Community Fiesta a Huge Success
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr celebrated 16 de Septiembre by hosting a community Fiesta in recognition of the traditional Fiestas Patrias held in celebration of Mexico’s Independence Day, this year marked the 210th anniversary of “El Grito” of independence.
“We had a great event and enjoyed the large turnout by our community,” said Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “Everyone had a great time and we are proud of our staff, volunteers, and all the organizations who joined us to make this such an amazing community event,” added Hernandez.
The event was a huge success and featured live music, folklorico and mariachi performances by local students, artisanal vendors, a mercado, lucha libre, carnival rides, food trucks, contests, and more!
“It was wonderful to see the excitement all around us, the bright colors, and our community coming together in celebration,” said Commissioner Daniel Chavez. “A lot of people came dressed up and took part in the many activities we had available,” he said. “We have been getting great feedback and we look forward to making next year’s event even better!”
Attendees had a variety of activities to choose from and the live music and performances kept on going all throughout the event. Food truck vendors featured aguas frescas, tacos, raspas, elotes, nachos, and more.
“The food was delicious and the activities were entertaining for the entire family,” added Commissioner Eleazar Guajardo. “It was especially exciting to see our local students performing traditional folklorico dances and playing mariachi music, they are so talented and I am proud that we were able to showcase their talents for our community to enjoy,”
The Pharr 16 de Septiembre Fiesta was a great success and plans are already in the works to make next year’s event even better!
Watch the event video recap here:
Pharr City Commissioner Eleazar Guajardo welcomes the community.
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