The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:

Pharr Declares November 2025 as Children’s Grief Awareness Month

The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring November 2025 as Children’s Grief Awareness Month, recognizing the many challenges children face after losing a loved one. The proclamation, which encourages the community to wear blue and participate in local events, was accepted by Noelynn Llaso, Administrative Manager for the Children’s Bereavement Center Rio Grande Valley. “Here in the Rio Grande Valley, so many children are growing up with the loss of a parent and managing grief. Our mission is to make sure no child has to grieve alone,” Llaso shared. The Children’s Bereavement Center will host a Candlelight Vigil of Remembrance and Hope on Thursday, November 20 at 6:00 p.m. at 104 S. 12th St. in McAllen. Residents are invited to join for an evening of reflection, connection, and remembrance, bringing a photo of their loved one and wearing blue in honor of grieving children and families. The City of Pharr is dedicated to creating a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, supported, and encouraged on their journey of healing.

Pharr Celebrates September Trailblazers of the Month

The Pharr City Commission proudly recognized two outstanding employees as Trailblazers of the Month for their exceptional work ethic and dedication. The first honoree was Joselyn Ontiveros, Office Manager for the Office of City Communications. “She joined the organization in 2015 and has served the City of Pharr in several roles before joining our team in 2021,” shared City Communications Director and Public Information Officer Yuri Gonzalez. “Joselyn is an example of an employee who has grown professionally, personally, and she is truly the glue to our office.” Grateful for the honor, Ontiveros thanked the city and her team for their support. The Commission also recognized Alexis Mata, Administrative Assistant for Pharr EMS. “We are proud of Alexis and all that she does not just for Pharr EMS, but for the city,” said Pharr EMS Chief Danny Ramirez. Mata, who has served Pharr in several capacities over the years, continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing service for the community. She expressed her appreciation, thanking leadership for the recognition and for the opportunities that have contributed to her growth.

Pharr Recognizes Office of City Communications for Earning Eight TATOA Awards

The Pharr City Commission proudly recognized the Office of City Communications for earning eight awards and two honorable mentions at the 2025 Texas Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors Conference. This statewide organization celebrates excellence in government communications, video production, and digital storytelling, and Pharr’s achievements stood out among cities of all sizes across Texas. The Office of City Communications manages all city messaging in-house, producing events, city meetings, videos, and public awareness campaigns that keep residents informed, connected, and engaged with their local government. City Communications Director and Public Information Officer Yuri Gonzalez and her team were honored before the Commission for their outstanding work and their role in putting Pharr on the map. “We competed against cities of all sizes in Texas, and I am so proud to have our work recognized as among the best in the state as we highlight, advocate, and inform the public about everything the City of Pharr is accomplishing,” Gonzalez shared. Mayor Dr. Hernandez and the City Commissioners praised the team for their professionalism, creativity, and dedication to transparency and community engagement. Congratulations to the Office of City Communications for this well-deserved recognition!

Learn more about the awards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34veVoAxj6w&t=2s.

Pharr Honors 2025 Salute to Veterans Parade Winners

The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores recognized the winners of the 2025 Salute to Veterans Parade during the city meeting. The City of Pharr hosted its annual Salute to Veterans Parade and Fireworks Celebration on Saturday, November 8, in Downtown Pharr, where the community came together to honor the brave men and women who served our nation. Families, organizations, schools, and local groups filled the streets with pride and unity, showing heartfelt appreciation for local heroes. The evening concluded with a vibrant fireworks show celebrating service, sacrifice, and community spirit. City of Pharr Special Events Director Abel Molina announced this year’s community winners: 1st Place: Mr. Leonel Morales, Korean War Veteran, 2nd Place: Liberty Middle School Cheerleaders, and 3rd Place: PSJA Southwest High School Band. Representatives from each of the winning organizations attended the meeting to proudly accept their recognition. Thank you to all the veterans and organizations who participated and helped make this celebration meaningful for our entire community!

Commission Confirms Reappointments of City Clerk and Assistant City Clerk

The Pharr City Commission approved a resolution, as required every two years, reappointing Imelda Perez, TRMC, as City Clerk and Alessandra Garcia as Assistant City Clerk.

Pharr City Commission Votes for Appraisal District Board Nominee

The Pharr City Commission approved a resolution to cast its votes for the Hidalgo County Appraisal District Board of Directors for the 2026–2029 term. The Commission unanimously voted to appoint David Moreno to the position.

Featured Event: Pharr’s Winter Wonderland & Lighting of the Christmas Tree – Friday, December 5, 2025, from 6 PM – 10 PM

The City of Pharr invites you to our annual Winter Wonderland & Lighting of the Christmas Tree

 Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
 Time: 6 PM – 10 PM | Lighting of the Christmas Tree is 7 PM
 Location: Downtown Pharr (200 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)

Enjoy live music, great food, local market vendors, and family fun.

Don’t miss the lighting of the Christmas Tree at 7 PM —be sure to get there early and enjoy the holiday spirit with the community.