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Media Contact: Kenia Gomez
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NEWS – City of Pharr Receives Inaugural Balanoff Good Government Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, JULY 27, 2026

Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr has been recognized with the inaugural Balanoff Good Government Award, a statewide honor presented by the Texas Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program and the Hobby Center for Public Service at Texas State University. The award recognizes Texas municipalities that demonstrate exceptional governance and a steadfast commitment to serving their communities with integrity, innovation, and accountability.

The award was presented during the CENTEX ASPA Public Service Recognition Awards Luncheon on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in San Marcos, Texas. Hilda Pedraza, Assistant City Manager, accepted the award on behalf of the City of Pharr.

The City of Pharr was one of only two Texas municipalities selected to receive the inaugural award, joining the Town of Ransom Canyon. Recipients were evaluated based on the Ten Texas Traits of Good Government, which recognize municipalities that are Respectful, Responsive, Effective, Transparent, Competent, Ethical, Lawful, Innovative, Economical, and Accountable.

The Balanoff Good Government Award was established to recognize municipalities that make good government more than an aspiration—it is a daily practice. Named in honor of Dr. Howard Balanoff and Marilyn Balanoff, the award celebrates organizations that strengthen public trust through ethical leadership, effective governance, and a commitment to excellence in public service.

“We are so honored to receive this award because it reflects the values we work hard to demonstrate every day at the City of Pharr,” said City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores. “Good government is built through the everyday decisions we make, the way we serve our community, and our willingness to continuously improve,” he continued. “I am incredibly proud of our team and grateful for their dedication,” added Dr. Flores.

The Texas Certified Public Manager Program, housed at the Hobby Center for Public Service at Texas State University, is a nationally accredited management development program dedicated to improving organizational performance in government and nonprofit organizations.

This recognition further reflects the City of Pharr’s ongoing commitment to delivering transparent, innovative, and citizen-focused government while setting a high standard for public service across Texas.