Pharr approves proclamations, tax rate and budget amendments

The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday and considered an agenda that included various highlights.

‘Mexican Independence Week’

The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 1620, 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, Sept. 20, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 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.'

‘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 GrandeValley 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.

Tocommemoratethissolemnday,RGVFF will host its 13th Annual Candlelight Vigil on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jose “Pepe” Salinas Memorial Recreation Center, located at 1011 W. Kelly Avenue in 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.

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 Sept. 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.

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.

Story Courtesy
City of Pharr