‘It is a Promise’: Ochoa gives rundown during city address

EDINBURG — It was a packed house here at the Edinburg ACE as Mayor Omar Ochoa — along with the city — hosted the State of the City Address on Thursday.

The theme for this year carried a sense of progression, which is something that the entire Rio Grande Valley has been experiencing in recent years.

The theme: “Moving Edinburg Forward,” was the motif for the night as community members, business leaders, regional partners, and more gathered under one roof.

This event was Ochoa’s first-ever State of the City Address, which reflected on the achievements of last year and the vision for the city for years to come.

“This event is about you,” Ochoa told a room full of attendees. “Because a city is not made of concrete and steel; it is made of its people. You are the heart, the soul, the engine of Edinburg.” During the address, it was highlighted that Edinburg — which is a four-time All-American City — is one of the fastest growing cities in the region.

According to the city, last year retail sales mounted $2 billion, and the city experienced high levels of construction activity, which helped reach $ 407 million in approved valuations.

The mayor also made note that strong partnerships are what help push the city forward — more so, economic partnerships. He said that the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s impact, as well as leading healthcare systems, contribute to the city’s momentum.

The city earned national recognition for permit approval processes and maintaining a business- friendly environment that supports entrepreneurs and small businesses for the community.

The social aspect of Edinburg was a high point as well as the city hosted more than 350 events last year.

In terms of public safety, there were zero recorded homicides last year.

Ochoa throughout the duration of the address recognized the effort of the city employees, first responders and more.

Ochoa also encouraged residents to keep doing their part for the city.

“When I say ‘Moving Edinburg Forward,’ it is not simply a slogan — it is a promise,” he said. “ A promise to choose community over division, to create opportunity for every family, and to build a future where every resident can thrive.”