The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, October 21, 2024, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:

Pharr Proclaims October 21st as “Audrey Zariah Garza Day”

The Pharr City Commission has declared October 21, 2024, as “Audrey Zariah Garza Day” in recognition of Audrey’s remarkable achievements and contributions to her community. Audrey, a talented model and beauty pageant titleholder, was recently crowned All American Miss, a prestigious honor that reflects her grace, poise, and dedication. Starting her journey in pageantry at just six years old, Audrey has proudly held titles such as San Juan Princess Ambassador and South Texas Princess, bringing pride to Hidalgo County. Beyond her success in pageantry, Audrey is deeply involved in her community. She donates blankets to families in need, provides baby supplies to mothers, cheerleads for Capable Kids, and participates in Girl Scouts. Audrey is also a shining example of resilience, having been named Driscoll Miracle Champion for her courage in overcoming the challenges of transverse myelitis, a rare neurological condition. Through her strength and involvement with Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Audrey continues to inspire patients and families. She is now focused on raising awareness about her condition and advocating for children with disabilities, turning her personal challenges into a platform for change. Audrey and her mother were presented with the proclamation by the city commission. “We are so proud of all that you do for your community, your positive attitude, and we celebrate your for your many accomplishments and accolades,” Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. stated. “You are an example that the sky is the limit and I am especially proud to so all that you are doing to give back to others,” he added.

Pharr Declares October as “Manufacturing Month”

The Pharr City Commission has declared October 2024 as “Manufacturing Month” to recognize the vital role manufacturing plays in Texas’ economy. With over 24,000 manufacturing firms statewide, 362 in Hidalgo County, this sector contributes more than 11% of Texas’ total output, including $309.6 billion in exports in 2022. Manufacturing employs 7% of the Texas workforce, with 978,000 employees across the state and 7,000 in Hidalgo County. Manufacturing in Reynosa, Mexico, also contributes significantly, with $35 billion in goods crossing through the Pharr International Bridge, representing 70% of total trade. Manufacturing also funds public services and provides well-paying jobs, with an average wage of $1,041 in Hidalgo County. Events throughout the month will showcase modern manufacturing and career opportunities, encouraging support for local products. The proclamation was accepted by Victor Perez, President/CEO of the Pharr EDC, Mike Willis, Executive Director, South Texas Manufacturers Association (STMA), Karina Lopez, Economic Development Manager, Pharr EDC, Belinda Vargas, CTE Coordinator, PSJA ISD, and Rey Perez, Board Member, Pharr EDC. “This month is focused on educating our students, community, and industry about manufacturing and its importance to our economy,” said Mr. Willis. The Pharr EDC, PSJA ISD, and STMA have partnered to host a Manufacturing Day event for PSJA ISD CTE students. They will have the opportunity to meet with companies from Pharr and the region that play a critical role in manufacturing.

Pharr Fire Department Recognized by the Texas Municipal League for “She’s My Hero” Program

The Pharr City Commission recognized Fire Chief Pilar Rodriguez and the Pharr Fire Department for receiving the Texas Municipal League’s Excellence in Service Award for their “She’s My Hero” Program. This initiative, now in its third year, introduces girls aged 6 to 17 to the firefighting profession, encouraging them to consider a career in fire service. The program is led entirely by Pharr’s 12 women firefighters, who serve as role models and teach participants about the duties of a firefighter. Chief Rodriguez emphasized the importance of providing young girls with strong female role models in the field. “They give teenage girls a role model to look up to and show them that they can also be firefighters,” said Chief Rodriguez.

City of Pharr Earns Prestigious Gold Scenic City Certification, Recognizes Development Services

The City of Pharr was honored with the “Gold Scenic City Award” by Scenic Texas at the Texas Municipal League’s (TML) Annual Conference, recognizing its commitment to high-quality municipal standards and long-term planning. Kimberly Mendoza, Director of Development Services, and her team were celebrated for their leadership in earning this distinction. The Scenic City Certification Program evaluates cities based on their infrastructure, streetscapes, and urban development practices. Pharr’s Gold certification highlights its dedication to initiatives such as urban forestry, scenic roads, green space, and historic preservation. This achievement reflects Pharr’s proactive efforts to enhance its visual infrastructure, promoting beauty and sustainability in public spaces. “We are proud to be recognized for continuing to implement high-quality scenic standards for public roadways and open spaces,” said Mendoza. She noted that Pharr previously held Silver certification and was thrilled to advance to Gold this year, reinforcing the city’s commitment to building a thriving, scenic community.

Featured Events:

Pharr PD Trunk or Treat – Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 6 PM to 9 PM

Candy, costumes, vendors, and community! Join the Pharr Police Department for a safe and fun Trunk or Treat event filled with goodies and local vendor booths.

Salute to Veterans Parade & Fireworks- Saturday, November 9th starting at 5:30 PM

Mark your calendars for our annual Salute to Veterans Parade & Fireworks.

5:30 PM – Parade
7 PM – HUB Market & Live Music
8 PM – Fireworks