The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, December 15, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Eddie Martinez Honored as November 2025 Pharr Trailblazer of the Month
The Pharr City Commission, alongside Roland Gomez, Director of Development Services, proudly recognized Eddie Martinez, Planner for the Development Services Department, as the November 2025 Pharr Trailblazer of the Month. The Pharr Trailblazer Award celebrates employees who lead by example and make a meaningful, lasting impact on the organization and the community they serve. “Today we are recognizing an employee who truly exemplifies leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the City of Pharr,” said Gomez. “Eddie consistently demonstrates technical expertise, a collaborative spirit, and a strong commitment to thoughtful planning that supports the City’s continued growth and development.” Gomez added that Martinez’s work has a positive impact not only on internal teams, but also on the residents of Pharr. With 18 years of service to the City of Pharr, Martinez expressed his gratitude for the recognition and his pride in serving the community. “I love what I do and the impact we are making together for our residents,” said Martinez. “Thank you to the City and my colleagues for making this a great place to work.” Congratulations, Eddie!
Pharr Announces Launch of Pharr Connect U and $4.8 Million Grant to Expand Broadband Careers in the Region
The Pharr City Commission proudly announced that the City of Pharr has been awarded $4,367,136 through the Building the Texas Broadband Workforce Grant Program, a highly competitive statewide initiative focused on growing the skilled workforce needed to expand high-speed internet access across Texas. With a $500,000 local match, the total investment reaches $4,867,136, positioning Pharr and the Rio Grande Valley as leaders in broadband workforce development. Using this funding, the City of Pharr will launch Pharr Connect U, a tuition-free, city-led broadband workforce development program designed to prepare local residents for high-demand careers in fiber broadband and digital infrastructure. The program will equip participants with the skills needed to support modern connectivity and strengthen the region’s digital economy. This grant is part of Texas’ historic broadband investments, which include more than $5 billion in federal funding and $1.5 billion allocated by the Texas Legislature through the 2023 Broadband Infrastructure Fund. In partnership with the PossAble Dream Foundation, the Intercultural Development Research Association (IDRA), Connect Humanity–RGV Broadband Coalition, and regional workforce partners, including Workforce Solutions Cameron and Workforce Solutions Lower Rio Grande, the City of Pharr will implement a comprehensive and collaborative training program using the Fiber Broadband Association’s OpTIC Path™ curriculum. Participants will receive classroom instruction, hands-on training, and paid internship opportunities with broadband employers. Jose Peña, Pharr IT Director, proudly mentioned that the City of Pharr is one of only three agencies in the entire State of Texas approved to offer this specialized program, reinforcing its role as a regional leader in workforce development, digital innovation, and broadband connectivity.
City of Pharr Recognizes Graduates of Leadership Development Program
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores proudly recognized twenty employees from various departments who recently completed the Pharr Leadership Development Program. The program was created to support employees who aspire to leadership roles or who are currently serving in leadership positions by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to grow professionally within municipal government. “This program reflects the City of Pharr’s commitment to investing in our employees and developing future leaders from within,” said Dr. Flores. “We are incredibly proud of each participant and look forward to seeing their continued growth and impact across our organization.” The Leadership Development Program focuses on strengthening professional skills, enhancing collaboration, and building a deeper understanding of local government operations. By empowering employees to grow as leaders, the City of Pharr continues to strengthen its workforce and ensure high-quality service for the community.
City Commission Recognizes First Graduating Class of P.H.A.R.R. Academy
The Pharr City Commission, alongside Pharr Human Resources Director Veronica Ramirez, proudly recognized four employees who completed the first graduating cohort of the Public Hazards Alert Ready Response (P.H.A.R.R.) Academy. The seven-month program was designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the City’s emergency response operations and the critical roles played by first responder departments during emergencies. “This is a seven-month program that allows employees to learn firsthand how our first responder departments operate and work together during emergency situations,” said Ramirez. “We partnered with Pharr EMS, Public Safety Communications, Pharr Police Department, Pharr Fire Department, and Emergency Management to give participants a meaningful, hands-on learning experience,” she added. Through the academy, participants demonstrated strong commitment, teamwork, and collaboration while gaining valuable insight into emergency preparedness, coordination, and response efforts. The program strengthens internal knowledge across departments and reinforces the City of Pharr’s commitment to readiness, safety, and professional development.
City of Pharr Launches New Farm-to-Table Partnership with Hidalgo County 4-H
The Pharr City Commission, alongside Victoria Brewster, Director of External Relations for the City of Pharr, welcomed Brianna Gutierrez, Hidalgo County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent for 4-H and Youth Development, to announce a new educational partnership focused on agriculture and student engagement. Through this collaboration with Hidalgo County 4-H, the City of Pharr is launching a Farm-to-Table initiative designed to teach students about the local agriculture industry and its vital role in the region’s economy. “Hidalgo County 4-H thanks the City of Pharr for this meaningful and hands-on learning experience that teaches our students the importance of the role of agriculture, transportation, and trade industries while informing and engaging our youth,” stated Gutierrez. The program provides hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom lessons to real-world careers and opportunities in agriculture, logistics, and trade. During a recent event, 4-H students toured Rio Farms, explored operations at Keystone Cold Storage, and learned about produce inspections at the Pharr International Bridge with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. These experiences provided students with a firsthand look at how locally grown produce is transported from the field to markets across the country and the world. The City of Pharr is proud to support educational initiatives that promote agriculture awareness, community service, and healthy living while inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Commission Adopts “Our Pharr Our Future” Comprehensive Plan
The Pharr City Commission approved, on first reading, an ordinance adopting the “Our Pharr Our Future 2035” Comprehensive Plan as the official Comprehensive Master Plan of the City of Pharr. The plan will serve as a long-term guide for growth, land use, transportation, and development throughout the city and its extraterritorial jurisdiction. The “Our Pharr Our Future” plan includes future land use maps, a thoroughfare plan, and policy guidance that will help shape zoning decisions and development regulations moving forward. The Plan will serve as a framework to promote public health, safety, and overall quality of life for Pharr residents.
City of Pharr Appoints Representatives to RGVMPO
The Pharr City Commission approved a resolution appointing representatives to the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (RGVMPO). Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., was named as the City of Pharr’s designee, with Commissioner Daniel Chavez serving as the alternate. The RGVMPO coordinates regional transportation planning and helps guide state and federal funding for roadway, transit, and mobility projects across the Rio Grande Valley.
Featured Events:
Blue Santa Toy Giveaway – Friday, December 19, 2025, from 6 PM to 9 PM
The Pharr Police Department invites you to our Blue Santa Toy Giveaway!
Join us on December 19th from 6 PM to 9 PM at the Pharr ONE Amphitheater for an evening filled with holiday cheer as Blue Santa spreads joy to families in our community.
Date: Friday, December 19, 2025 Time: 6 PM – 9 PM Location: Pharr ONE Amphitheater (1121 E. Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577)
This event is open to the public, and toys will be available while supplies last. Bring the kids, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and help us celebrate the spirit of giving!
2026 City of Pharr Ball Drop – Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 8:30 PM to 12 AM
Ring in 2026 with us in Downtown Pharr! Join the City of Pharr for our New Year’s Eve Ball Drop on December 31st at 8:30 PM.
Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Time: 8:30 PM – 12 AM Location: Downtown Pharr (118 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Live music by The Spazmatics, food, drone & light show, and free admission!
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr Welcomes Nearly 7,000 Visitors to Magical Winter Wonderland Christmas Celebration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2025
Pharr, Texas – Downtown Pharr transformed into a shimmering Winter Wonderland as nearly 7,000 residents and visitors gathered to celebrate one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions, the Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Downtown Park. Under a canopy of sparkling lights and festive decor, families enjoyed an evening filled with Christmas magic, unity, and community pride.
The highlight of the night took place when Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez led the Lighting of the Christmas Tree alongside several children who wrote heartfelt letters asking to help usher in the holiday season. Their excitement, joy, and Christmas spirit set the tone for an unforgettable evening in the heart of Pharr.
Throughout the event, families enjoyed a wide variety of seasonal activities, including Letters to Santa, Elf on the Shelf giveaways, snow, photo opportunities with Christmas backdrops, dance performances by local students, and over 40 food and non-food vendors offering treats, crafts, gifts, and holiday favorites. The Winter Wonderland festival also featured outstanding live performances by Trey Gonzalez and the EZ Band, filling the air with classic Christmas melodies and lively music. The night ended with a spectacular drone show.
Pharr’s Winter Wonderland continues to grow each year, becoming a cherished tradition that highlights the city’s commitment to creating meaningful, family-friendly events for all. With nearly 7,000 people in attendance, this year’s celebration stood as a testament to the joy, unity, and holiday spirit that define the Pharr community.
“Seeing thousands of families come together to celebrate the season reminds us why Pharr is such a special place,” said Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “This event is about community, connection, and creating joyful memories that our children and families will carry with them for years to come,” continued Hernandez. “We are grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make this Winter Wonderland truly magical,” he added.
The City of Pharr would like to thank all families, partners, vendors, volunteers, and performers who helped make the evening a wonderful success for our community. On behalf of all of us at the City of Pharr, we wish everyone a joyful holiday season!
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
MEDIA EVENT – Pharr Connect to Launch Fiber Broadband for Multi-Family Communities on Tue., 12/2 @5:30 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is excited to announce a major milestone in its ongoing effort to expand high-quality broadband access to more residents. Pharr Connect, the city’s fiber-optic internet service, is now expanding its service into multi-family living areas, including apartment complexes, 55+ communities, Winter Texan mobile home parks, and other private multi-family developments throughout Pharr.
The kickoff celebration will take place on Tuesday, December 2, at 5:30 PM at WinterHaven MHP (1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd.) in Pharr.
Pharr Connect is the City of Pharr’s solution to closing the digital divide. The city offers reliable, fast fiber internet and next-generation WiFi technology, connecting all devices in homes and businesses. While previously available to residential and business customers, service had not been extended to private areas of multi-family properties until now.
Through this effort, thousands of residents living in multi-dwelling units will now have access to Pharr Connect, strengthening digital access, opportunity, and connectivity across the community. The City of Pharr is proud to bring this service to even more families.
The growth of Pharr Connect will bring affordable broadband to even more residents. In addition, families with a child enrolled at PSJA ISD receive the service at no cost.
This event is exclusively for media to attend; city officials will be available for on-site interview opportunities. To RSVP your outlet’s attendance, please email [email protected] by 5 pm on Monday, December 1, 2025.
DETAILS
WHAT: Pharr Connect to Launch Fiber Broadband for Multi-Family Communities
WHEN: Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 5:30 PM
WHERE: WinterHaven MHP (1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd), Pharr, TX
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr Office of City Communications Earns Eight State Awards at 2025 TATOA Annual Conference
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is proud to announce that its Office of City Communications earned a total of eight awards and two honorable mentions at the 2025 Texas Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (TATOA) annual conference, held in The Woodlands, Texas.
TATOA is a statewide organization that recognizes excellence in government communications, video production, and digital storytelling among municipalities and public agencies across Texas.
“I am incredibly proud and grateful to celebrate these recent awards with our media team,” Director of the Office of City Communications Yuri Gonzalez said. “They are extremely talented; every idea, edit, story and creative passion made this possible,” Gonzalez added.
The Office of City Communications is a twelve-member team of skilled video journalists, media specialists, and graphic designers. Serving as the central hub for all citywide communications, marketing, and video production, the department manages every aspect of communications entirely in-house. From covering community events to producing city meetings and launching public awareness campaigns, the department is dedicated to keeping residents informed, connected, and engaged with their local government.
“I am extremely proud of our Office of City Communications and the tremendous work they do to help tell our Pharr story,” Pharr City Manager Dr. Jonathan Flores said. “Under the direction of Yuri Gonzalez, our media team continues to set the industry standard for innovation in media relations. These awards are a true testament to their dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence,” Flores added.
Pharr received awards across multiple categories, showcasing outstanding creativity, production, and storytelling:
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov
UPDATE – City of Pharr to Host Annual Salute to Veterans Parade & Fireworks Celebration on Sat., 11/8 @ 4:30 PM with Fireworks @ 8:30 PM
*Please note the time for the parade has been changed to 4:30 PM!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr invites the community and media to join us for our annual Salute to Veterans Parade & Fireworks Celebration on Saturday, November 8, 2025, in Downtown Pharr (200 S. Cage Blvd.). The celebration will honor the brave men and women who have served our nation with an evening full of pride, unity, and entertainment.
The parade will begin at 4:30 PM, showcasing patriotic floats, marching bands, city staff, and local community groups. Following the parade, the night will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display at 8:30 PM, lighting up the Pharr sky in honor of our veterans.
Families, organizations, schools, and local groups are encouraged to participate in the parade and show their appreciation for our heroes. Those interested in joining may contact the Pharr Special Events Department at (956) 402-2400 or via email at events@pharr-tx.gov.
Members of the media are invited to attend and capture the sights and sounds of this community celebration.
All media and the public are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: City of PharrSalute to Veterans Parade & Fireworks
WHEN:Saturday, November 8, 2025
Parade begins at 4:30 PM
Fireworks show at 8:30 PM
WHERE:Downtown Pharr (200 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
CONTACT: Pharr Special Events Department | (956) 402-2400 | events@pharr-tx.gov
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr’s 3rd Annual Avocado Festival Welcomes Over 18,000 Attendees
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr proudly hosted its 3rd Annual Avocado Festival, welcoming more than 18,000 attendees for a fun-filled day of live music, food, family activities, and community celebration. The event brought together residents and visitors to honor the city’s rich connection to the avocado and its role as a leading produce trade hub.
Pharr plays a key role in the nation’s produce trade. Approximately 70% of all avocados consumed in the United States pass through the Pharr International Bridge. In 2024, the bridge processed 1.3 billion pounds of avocados, highlighting Pharr’s position as a gateway for fresh produce from Mexico to markets across the country.
As part of the city’s “Fresh on the Border” initiative, the Avocado Festival also marks the start of the produce season each October, paying tribute to the growers, the bridge, and the fresh foods that connect our region to the rest of the nation.
This year’s festival was presented in partnership with the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce and presenting sponsor BMW of Pharr. The City of Pharr extends its sincere appreciation to all sponsors, performers, vendors, city staff, and community members whose hard work and support made the celebration possible.
Festivalgoers enjoyed a dynamic lineup of performers across two stages, featuring headliner Easton Corbin, who closed out the evening with an unforgettable performance. The Main Stage showcased La Sonora Dinamita de Ananidita, John King, RED – A Taylor Swift Tribute, and Beatriz Gonzalez, while the 956 Stage featured local talent including Mesteño, Domingo Elias 3Zero, and Alicat Crash.
The festival also featured over 100 food and market vendors, carnival rides, photo opportunities, lucha libre show, petting zoo, beer garden, arcade games, and a grand finale fireworks show!
The City of Pharr looks forward to welcoming everyone back next October for another celebration of community, culture, and the avocado.
Date: Friday, December 19, 2025
Time: 6 PM – 9 PM
Location: Pharr ONE Amphitheater (1121 E. Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577)
Ring in 2026 with us in Downtown Pharr! Join the City of Pharr for our New Year’s Eve Ball Drop on December 31st at 8:30 PM.
