The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, September 15, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Proclaims September 16-20 as “Mexican Independence Week”
The Pharr City Commission proudly approved a proclamation declaring September 16-20, 2025, as “Mexican Independence Week,” honoring the legacy of Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s Grito de Dolores and the cultural contributions of the Mexican and Mexican-American community. Griselda Salinas and Virginia Santana, Presidenta of AVE FRONTERA, Inc., along with members of their organization, accepted the proclamation and shared with the Commission the important work their nonprofit carries out to instill cultural pride, strengthen family bonds, and promote community well-being. In celebration of this historic occasion, AVE FRONTERA, Inc. will host a community-wide event on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Development and Research Center (850 W. Dicker Rd.) in South Pharr. “Thank you to the City of Pharr for your support as we host our first event in the community,” said Santana. “We invite everyone to come out to celebrate with us and learn about the history and culture of Mexico’s Independence Day.” The event will feature live cultural performances, a reenactment of El Grito de Dolores, Mexican Folklórico dances, educational exhibits, and family-centered activities, all designed to honor heritage, foster cross-generational learning, and celebrate the spirit of independence.
Pharr Declares September 25, 2025, as “National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims”
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 25, 2025, as “National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims,” honoring the lives lost to violence and the families forever changed by their absence. Present to receive the proclamation were Robert Garcia, CEO, President, and founder of the Rio Grande Valley Families & Friends of Murdered Children (RGV-FF) Inc., along with members of the organization. Garcia shared with the Commission the critical work RGV-FF carries out in supporting survivors of violent crimes and homicide, helping children and families navigate trauma, and advocating for healing, safety, and justice. Since 2014, the organization has served more than 2,200 families across the region, and the need for support continues to grow. In 2024 alone, Texas recorded 1,847 homicides, leaving more than 18,470 close relatives directly impacted. Here in the Rio Grande Valley, 53 murders were reported, with over 530 surviving family members facing the devastating loss of a loved one. To commemorate this solemn day, RGV-FF will host its 13th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Jose “Pepe” Salinas Memorial Recreation Center, located at 1011 W. Kelly Avenue in Pharr. The vigil will feature the lighting of candles, the reading of names, and the sharing of stories that honor the lives of loved ones lost. “To Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez and the Pharr City Commission, thank you for standing as a pillar of compassion, remembrance, hope, and unity, and allowing us to share our grief, advocacy, and our stories with the community,” said Garcia. “We appreciate your unwavering support as we continue to host our vigil here in the City of Pharr.”
Laura Saldaña Honored as Pharr’s First “Trailblazer of the Month”
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores proudly recognized Laura Saldaña from the Pharr Memorial Library with the inaugural “Trailblazer of the Month” Award, honoring her dedication, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. Library Director Adolfo Garcia introduced Saldaña, praising her as a model employee whose performance consistently reflects the highest standards. “Laura Saldaña meets and exceeds all Pharr Trailblazer principles and traits; we commend you for your top-quality performance and for always going above and beyond,” Garcia said. He added that she was also named Employee of the Month. Saldaña expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thank you so much. I’ve always said I don’t need any recognition for my quality of work, but I truly appreciate this honor and being a part of this team.” Members of the Pharr City Commission, including Commissioner Pacheco, joined in commending Saldaña for her professionalism and service, thanking her for her contributions to the City of Pharr and the community she serves. As the very first recipient of this award, Saldaña has set a high standard for future honorees, embodying the spirit of a true trailblazer. Congratulations, Laura!
Pharr City Commission Welcomes Presentation on Upcoming “Walk to End Alzheimer’s”
The Pharr City Commission received a special presentation from Maxine Viera and Laura Karam, Chairperson of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s for the Upper Valley, about the organization’s upcoming event. Karam shared that the Walk to End Alzheimer’s will once again take place at the Pharr One Center, located at 1121 E. Nolana Loop, on Saturday, October 4, 2025. “We invite all families to join us for the walk as we continue to advocate for Alzheimer’s education, awareness, and research,” said Karam. Viera and Karam encouraged the community to participate by registering for this year’s walk and reminded residents that every step taken helps bring greater awareness and support to those affected by Alzheimer’s. To sign up or learn more, visit https://bit.ly/3FDXD3Q.
City of Pharr Approves Tax Rate for FY 2025–2026
The Pharr City Commission approved the property tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year at .7676 cents per $100 valuation (a 5.9% increase in the tax rate). This rate, which remains the same as last year, is divided into .5852 cents for Maintenance and Operations and .1824 cents for Interest and Sinking. The adoption ensures compliance with state law while maintaining fiscal transparency. Residents will see NO increase in the City’s tax rate from the prior year.
Pharr City Commission Approves FY 2025–2026 Budget
The Pharr City Commission adopted the budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025, and ending September 30, 2026. The $290 million budget strategically allocates funding across departments and services to meet operational needs, expand infrastructure, and support long-term goals. This year’s budget will raise $2.9 million more in property tax revenue than last year, including nearly $1 million from new properties added to the tax roll. The budget invests in services, infrastructure, and growth to support Pharr’s residents and future development.
Pharr Approves Budget Amendment for FY 2024–2025
The Pharr City Commission has approved a budget amendment to ensure transparency and adhere to state regulations for the upcoming fiscal year. The amendment adjusts appropriations due to increased revenues and resources. It accurately reflects activity but has no net effect on the General Fund, maintaining the City’s finances and transparency without impacting the budget.
City of Pharr Updates Alcoholic Beverage Ordinance for Compliance
The Pharr City Commission approved an amendment to its Alcoholic Beverages permitting ordinance to comply with Senate Bill 1008. The updated ordinance ensures that food service establishments already licensed by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) are not charged duplicate local fees, preventing double-charging and aligning with statewide standards. This change benefits local businesses by providing fair, consistent regulations without unnecessary costs.
Pharr City Commission Approves Nomination to Hidalgo County Appraisal District Board
The Pharr City Commission approved David Moreno of Donna as a nominee to the Hidalgo County Appraisal District Board of Directors (HCAD) for the 2026–2029 term. The Appraisal District sets property values that affect local taxes for schools, cities, and other services. The HCAD Board of Directors consists of nine members: five voting members appointed by participating entities, three members elected by county voters, and one ex officio member (the County Tax Assessor/Collector).
Pharr Commission Approves Reappointment to the Civil Service Commission
The Pharr City Commission approved the reappointment of Vittorio Puente to the Civil Service Commission. Puente’s term was set to expire on October 2, 2025, and he expressed his desire to continue serving.
Pharr Commission Appoints New Member to Keep Pharr Beautiful Committee
The Pharr City Commission appointed Mercedes Guillen to the Keep Pharr Beautiful Committee, filling the position previously held by Romeo Robles Jr., whose term expired on June 5, 2025.
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Proclaims October 23rd-31st as “Red Ribbon Week”
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring October 23–31, 2025, as Red Ribbon Week, joining the cities of San Juan, Alamo, and PSJA ISD in promoting a unified commitment to a drug-free community. The proclamation was accepted by Pharr Chief of Police Juan F. Gonzalez and members of his staff, recognizing the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use while emphasizing the importance of education, prevention, and community support. Inspired by the legacy of DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, the Red Ribbon Campaign has been observed nationwide since 1988 as a symbol of hope and determination in the fight against drugs. By wearing a red ribbon and participating in awareness activities, residents of Pharr, San Juan, and Alamo, along with students from PSJA ISD, are encouraged to show their support for a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The Pharr Police Department also announced that the City of Pharr will once again host the Drug-Free Week Parade, in coordination with the cities and police departments of San Juan and Alamo, as well as PSJA ISD, on Saturday, October 18th. The community is invited to participate in the event and join together in celebration of making positive, drug-free choices. This year’s theme, “Life is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free,” highlights the importance of making positive choices and working together to build a healthier future.
Pharr Public Utilities Recognized for Earning Prestigious TCEQ Award
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores recognized the Public Utilities Department for earning the prestigious Water Partners: Water Systems Helping Water Systems Award, a distinction awarded by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to public water systems that have provided significant assistance to other systems during emergencies or in operational support. They were recognized for their outstanding work during last winter’s severe weather, when they kept operations running while many other plants closed and provided help to neighboring communities in need. Oscar De Leon, Assistant Director for Public Utilities, along with his team, Omahar Badillo (Meter Reader Supervisor), Manuel Ponce (Water Treatment Plant Supervisor), and Jesse Trejo (Superintendent of Operations), were recognized for their leadership and dedication that not only ensured continuity of water services but embodied the spirit of inter-system cooperation recognized by the “Helping Water Systems” award. The Pharr Public Utilities Department is among just four NeeLax certified systems in the region, underscoring their advanced operational credentials and commitment to excellence. “We are proud to have earned this prestigious award, and it means a lot to us because it speaks a lot about us here at the City of Pharr and our leadership and commitment to helping our fellow neighbors,” said De Leon.
Pharr City Commission Approves PEDC Board Appointments
The Pharr City Commission approved the reappointment of Ambrosio Hernandez, Ramiro Caballero, and Ricardo Medina, whose terms expire in September, to the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (PEDC) Board of Directors. The Commission also appointed Commissioner Itza Flores to the board.
Featured Events:
Pharr International Trucking Expo – Friday, September 19, 2025, from 11 AM to 5 PM
Join us for the 2nd Annual Pharr International Bridge Truck Expo!
Date: Friday, September 19, 2025
Time: 11 AM – 5 PM
Location: Bert Ogden Arena (34900 S. I-69C, Edinburg, TX 78539)
The FREE event will feature:
Truck Showcase
Prize Giveaways
Trucking Products & Services
Employment Opportunities
Transportation Solutions
DOT Workshop
Networking
Live Music & Much More!
For event information and vendor space, contact us at (956)402-4660 or email: [email protected]
She’s My Hero Women’s Camp – Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM
Ready to step into the boots of a hero? Join us at the “She’s My Hero” Women’s Camp hosted by the Pharr Fire Department! 
Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
Time: 10 AM – 3 PM
Location: STC Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence in Pharr (3901 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
This empowering, hands-on camp is designed for women ages 18–25 who are ready to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a firefighter. 
Spots are limited — Register in person at Pharr City Hall (3rd Floor)!
Don’t miss your chance to be inspired, build confidence, and unleash your inner hero! 
For more info, contact Catherine Cadena at (956) 638-6067.
Avocado Festival – Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 2 PM to 11 PM
The BIGGEST party in the Valley is almost here — the Pharr Avocado Festival!
Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
Time: 2 PM – 11 PM
Location: Downtown Pharr (118 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Mark your calendars and get ready for a day FULL of live music, food, and fun for the entire family!
Main Stage Headliner: Country star Easton Corbin 
Plus: La Sonora Dinamita de Anaidita • John King • RED • Beatriz Gonzalez 
On the 956 Stage: Grupo Mesteño • Domingo Elias 3Zero • Ali Cat Crash 
From delicious eats to exciting activities, and from family fun to incredible live performances—you DON’T want to miss the festival of the year! 
For more information visit www.avocadofest.com
31st Rio Reforestation – Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 8 AM to 12 PM
Volunteers Needed!
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Time: 8 AM – 12 PM
Location: Milagro Tract (904 W. Doffin Rd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Join us for the 31st Rio Reforestation on Saturday, October 18, 2025, in Pharr, TX! Help plant 10,000 native tree seedlings to create habitat for wildlife and migratory birds. 