The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, November 3, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City of Pharr Declares November 3, 2025 as Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Day
The Pharr City Commission proudly approved a proclamation declaring November 3, 2025, as Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Day, reaffirming the city’s dedication to environmental stewardship and pollinator conservation. Through the pledge, the City of Pharr joins hundreds of cities across North America committed to creating habitats for the Monarch Butterfly and other pollinators, whose populations have declined due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Remy Vargas, Urban Ecologist for the City of Pharr, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the city and emphasized the ecological and cultural importance of the monarch. “The Monarch Butterfly symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and the ability to overcome adversity,” said Vargas. “These incredible butterflies travel over 3,000 miles each year from Canada to Mexico, and the City of Pharr serves as an important stop along their migration.” By participating in the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge, Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez and the Pharr City Commission continue to champion sustainability and biodiversity through education, native planting initiatives, and community engagement, ensuring Pharr remains a welcoming habitat for monarchs and pollinators for generations to come.
City Commission Proclaims November 2025 as Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and Family Caregivers Month
The City of Pharr proclaimed November 2025 as Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and Family Caregivers Month, recognizing the millions of individuals, families, and caregivers impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. The proclamation acknowledges the growing need for awareness, early detection, and continued support for those living with the disease, as well as the dedication of caregivers who provide invaluable care and compassion. Maxine Vieyra, South Texas Alzheimer’s Program Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the organization. “Thank you to the City of Pharr for partnering with us on educating the community during this month,” said Vieyra. “I am thrilled that we have officially entered the era of treatment. Several therapies have already been approved by the FDA, and we continue to see new opportunities for healing,” she added. Vieyra also encouraged residents to seek support and stay informed about the latest research and resources available to families navigating Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Commission Recognizes Ricardo Dominguez with Trailblazer Award
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores recognized Engineer Fire Investigator Ricardo Dominguez with the city’s Trailblazer Award for his outstanding dedication and exemplary service to the community. The award was presented by Pharr Fire Chief Pilar Rodriguez, joined by members of the Pharr Fire Department, who commended Dominguez for his exceptional work ethic and positive attitude. “Ricardo is part of our Fire Prevention team and has proven himself to be outgoing, outstanding, and very engaged with the public,” said Chief Rodriguez. “He is an example to the rest of the department for his ‘can do’ and work-hard attitude that we expect of our employees.” Dominguez expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Thank you to the City of Pharr for this honor. I have enjoyed the past seven years here and look forward to a continued career of growth.” Congratulations, Ricardo!
City of Pharr Earns 2025 Scenic City People’s Choice Award
The Pharr City Commission proudly announced that Pharr was awarded the 2025 Scenic City People’s Choice Award by Scenic Texas. The Development Services Department presented the award during the city commission meeting and shared the exciting news with the community. The honor is given to one certified Scenic City each year, selected through public voting based on efforts to enhance the city’s visual environment. This award celebrates the city’s commitment to visual appeal, thoughtful planning, and civic pride. With more than 100 certified Scenic Cities across Texas, this recognition stands as a testament to Pharr’s ongoing dedication to creating inviting spaces, improving visual quality, and fostering a more vibrant, livable, and scenic community for all.
City of Pharr Announces Partnership with the Museum of South Texas History to Preserve and Celebrate Heritage
The Pharr City Commission proudly announced a new partnership with the Museum of South Texas History (MOSTHistory), marking an important step toward preserving and celebrating the city’s cultural and historical legacy. The partnership was formally approved through a resolution by the City Commission and will focus on educational programming, guided tours, community outreach, and historical research that highlight Pharr’s unique story within the broader history of the Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Francisco Guajardo, Chief Executive Officer of MOSTHistory, attended the announcement along with staff members Debbie Gomez, Development Officer; Melissa Peña, Archivist; and Jenarae Bautista, Curator of Exhibits and Collections. “We are proud to partner with the City of Pharr to share, preserve, and educate the community on its origin story while engaging residents on its past and present,” said Dr. Guajardo. Melissa Peña added, “Thank you for this impactful partnership, which will serve as a model for collaboration and leadership across the region.” Through this initiative, Pharr residents and students will receive discounted admission to MOSTHistory (with proof of ID or utility bill) and enjoy access to dynamic programming, including curriculum-based workshops, public exhibits, lectures, and interactive learning experiences. The agreement, effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, will also support research and data collection efforts to document Pharr’s historical and cultural evolution.
Pharr Police Chief Reports Significant Decrease in Crime Rates
The Pharr City Commission received an update from Police Chief Juan F. Gonzalez on the Pharr Police Department’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Statistics, showing a steady and encouraging decline in both violent and property crimes over the past three years. Chief Gonzalez reported that violent crimes, including aggravated assault, robbery, rape, and homicide, have decreased from 212 incidents in 2022 to 179 in 2024. Property crimes, including arson, motor vehicle theft, theft-larceny, and burglary, have also dropped significantly, from 1,219 cases in 2022 to 919 in 2024, reflecting a citywide decrease of 23.3 percent among Pharr’s population of roughly 80,000 residents. “I want to thank the community and our business partners who have done a great job throughout the years in helping us develop plans that focus on areas with the highest crime,” said Chief Gonzalez. He also noted that traffic accidents have decreased by 20 to 30 percent each month since the completion of construction at the interchange. It has been a process, but we are now seeing fewer accidents and safer roadways in Pharr.
Pharr City Commission Approves Ordinance Establishing New Golf Department
The Pharr City Commission adopted, on one reading, an ordinance creating the City of Pharr’s new Golf Department, marking an important step toward strengthening recreational programming and promoting golf as a community asset. The new department will oversee the daily operation, management, and maintenance of the Pharr Golf Course and its related facilities, including the clubhouse, pro shop, and practice areas. It will also manage tournaments, memberships, and community golf events, ensuring high-quality service and standards that align with the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) guidelines.
City Commission Approves Certificates of Obligation for City Improvements
The Pharr City Commission approved, on one reading, an ordinance authorizing the issuance of the City of Pharr, Texas Combination Tax and Revenue Certificates of Obligation, Series 2025. This ordinance allows the city to fund key public projects such as street and drainage improvements, public safety enhancements, park upgrades, and the expansion of the Pharr International Bridge, including new lanes and related infrastructure.
Pharr City Commission Approves Bridge Revenue Bonds
The Pharr City Commission approved, on one reading, an ordinance authorizing the issuance of the City of Pharr International Toll Bridge System Revenue Bonds, Series 2025. These bonds will help fund the expansion and improvement of the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge and related infrastructure.
Featured Events:
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
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. 
**Vendor Registration opens Friday, November 7, 2025**