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Area & State News

Pharr Reports Continued Sales Tax Growth

The Pharr City Commission received the Sales Tax Collection Report for December 2025, showing continued positive growth for the city. Year-todate collections increased by 4.28% compared to December 2024, while December collections alone rose by 10.08% over the same month last year. For the City’s Fiscal Year 2025–2026, fiscal year-to-date sales tax collections are up 6.80%, reflecting ongoing economic growth and a strong economy.

City Recognizes Public Works Employee for Earning EMT Certification

The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores proudly recognized Public Works Department employee Billy Bowden for successfully earning his National Registry Emergency Medical Technician certification. Bowden was selected to participate in the EMT program through the City of Pharr’s EMS affiliation agreement with Elite Medical Training Solutions, which provides one free training spot for city employees seeking professional advancement. Recommended by his boss, Pharr Public Works Director Luis Marin, Bowden was encouraged to take the course. 'He has demonstrated dedication, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to public service, and I know he will continue to do great things with his career,' said Marin. “I am so thankful to the City of Pharr, my boss, Mr. Marin, and Mr. Danny Ramirez for giving me this opportunity to develop as a professional,” said Bowden. This certification supports his goal of transitioning to the Pharr Fire Department and reflects the city’s continued investment in workforce development and employee growth. Congratulations, Billy!

Commissioner Eduardo ‘Eddie’ Cantu announced re-election bid

Hidalgo County Commissioner Eduardo “Eddie” Cantu officially announced his bid for re-election to represent Precinct 2, pledging to continue delivering results grounded in fiscal responsibility, public safety, and inclusive community investment. Over the past eleven years in office, Commissioner Cantu has helped secure more than $100 million in state and federal funding to advance transformational infrastructure and quality-of-life projects, easing the burden on local taxpayers while accelerating improvements across the region. These efforts include expanded and widened roadways, multicity hike-and-bike trails with innovative tunnel crossings for pedestrian safety, major drainage upgrades, expanded youth programming through new Boys & Girls Clubs, and parks designed so every child can participate.

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