McAllen CityCommission, Budget, TaxRate, DowntownRevitalization, TresLagos, PublicSafety

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen City Commission on Monday adopted a $647 million budget for fiscal year 2026-27 and held the property tax rate steady at $0.448989 per $100 valuation while also hearing a draft revitalization strategy for downtown and the entertainment district.

The budget, approved unanimously on a roll-call vote, includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for city staff, a general fund of $180 million, an unassigned ending fund balance of $109 million representing 235 days of working capital, and 12 new positions to fund operations at the Center for Urban Ecology.

City Manager praised budget staff before the vote. “Angie and Sonia put hours, countless hours, into helping me prepare the budget,” he said. “I know both of them worked on days when they were sick, had medical procedures, and were just tremendous this year.”

Commissioner Tony Aguirre credited the commission and staff for avoiding a tax increase. “When we first began, I think we were looking at possibly having to raise the taxes for a little bit, but everybody working together as a team — here we go again — so we don’t have to,” he said. “I think this is a great budget.”

Commissioner Rolly Rios echoed those sentiments and credited McAllen’s long-term fiscal leadership. “In over 40 years, this city has only had four city managers,” Rios said. “That’s about consistency and excellence in every fiscal year.”

The adopted tax rate of $0.448989 per $100 — comprising a maintenance and operations rate of $0.413293 and a debt service rate of $0.035696 — is the same as the prior year but is greater than the no-new-revenue rate by approximately 0.95%, as required by state law to be disclosed. The rate is below the voter-approval rate of $0.517054.

Downtown Revitalization Plan Presented

Earlier in the evening during a workshop session, MEND Collaborative presented a draft Downtown and Entertainment District Revitalization Strategy to the commission.

The study area runs from U.S. Business 83 on the north to Jackson Avenue on the south, and from Bicentennial Boulevard on the west to 10th Street on the east. MEND conducted two rounds of community engagement, including an online survey with 442 responses and a mapping exercise with 96 comments.

The strategy is built around four goals — Revitalization, Mobility, Public Realm, and Culture — and includes six priority recommendations: a sector-based development framework; reinvestment of parking revenues into downtown; creation of a new downtown park and expansion of Archer Park; diversification of the entertainment district’s business mix; establishment of a clear downtown identity; and expansion of the Refresh 50/50 program, which currently offers a $25,000 matching grant.

Funding strategies discussed included a Municipal Management District, Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, Parking Benefit District, Historic Tax Credits, and New Market Tax Credits. Commissioners also discussed housing opportunities on underutilized lots and resources for small business assistance. The city manager noted staff is already working on trees and shade, trash facilities, benches, and artwork for a parking garage. A final report is expected within a few weeks.

Proclamations

The commission recognized Physician Assistant Week, Oct. 6–12, with a proclamation presented by Commissioner Rios and accepted by Cassandra Wetstone, president of the Rio Grande Valley Physician Assistant Society.

“When the city of McAllen recognizes PA Week, you are recognizing more than 600 PAs who show up every day to care for patients across the Rio Grande Valley,” Wetstone said.

Commissioner Aguirre presented a proclamation for Week Without Driving, Oct. 1–8.

Matty’s Pumpkin Patch CUP Denied

The commission denied a conditional use permit for Matty’s Pumpkin Patch at 6712 N. Benson Road after a neighbor testified against the seasonal operation, citing dust from an overflow parking lot on an adjacent agricultural property, prior code violations, an animal disposal incident, and an agreement with the owner that she said was not honored.

The city attorney told commissioners that code enforcement had responded on multiple occasions before a civil enforcement action was filed, resulting in an agreed temporary injunction in December 2024 that remains in place. Planning and Zoning had recommended disapproval.

Commissioner Michael Fallek, who represents the district, moved to deny the permit. “I still look at prior history and more importantly the current conditions as they stand with regards to the concerns and the complaints received from the citizens immediately living around that property,” Fallek said. The motion carried.

Other Action Items

The commission approved an annual update and assessment plan for the Tres Lagos Public Improvement District. The development’s appraised value reached $595 million, exceeding the original projection of $585.5 million. Shops at Tres Lagos reported 97% occupancy, and a new Texas A&M nursing school has opened within the district. Assessments were unchanged.

Commissioners also approved a recreation organization registration agreement between the city and RCX Sports for youth hockey league play and equipment reimbursement tied to a Dallas Stars partnership; a license agreement with the Warren Group for landscaping and an awning at 804 S. Main St. in the city right-of-way; and an interlocal agreement with Palm Valley Animal Society for regional animal shelter operations at an annual cost of $875,000, reduced from the prior rate of $950,000.

The commission also authorized the city manager and city attorney to proceed as directed in three executive session items.

McAllen, McAllen City Commission, Mend Collaborative, downtown study, budget adoption, FY 2026-2027, tax rate, rezoning, conditional use permit, Miller International Airport, Back to School Bash, Isaac Tawil, Javier Villalobos

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen City Commission will hold a workshop and regular meeting Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, at McAllen City Hall Commission Chambers, third floor, 1300 Houston Ave. The workshop begins at 4 p.m., followed by the regular meeting at 5 p.m.

Workshop

The workshop agenda includes a presentation of the Mend Collaborative Downtown Study, which has been referenced in prior budget discussions as a key element of the city’s downtown reinvestment planning. Commissioners will also have the opportunity to present questions to staff relating to the regular meeting agenda. The workshop will include an executive session to discuss pending litigation, legal aspects of contracts, and personnel matters.

Regular Meeting: Budget and Tax Rate Adoption

The commission will consider adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget and the city’s property tax rate, marking the conclusion of a multi-month budget process that included workshops held in August at Champion Lakes Golf Course. City Manager Isaac J. Tawil proposed a $622 million budget with a three-cent property tax rate increase during those sessions.

Regular Meeting: Public Hearings — Rezoning Items

The commission will consider the following customer-initiated rezoning requests, all carrying favorable recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission:

• Rezoning from R-1 to C-1 at 5900 N. 10th St., requested by Melden & Hunt Inc.

• Rezoning from R-1 to R-2 at 4924 N. 10th St., requested by Melden & Hunt Inc.

• Rezoning from AG to R-1 for 73.15 acres at 6500 N. Ware Road, requested by Melden & Hunt Inc.

• Rezoning from C-3 to C-2 at 200 W. Expressway 83, requested by David Garza on behalf of D&E Ventures LLC

• Rezoning from R-1 to C-3 at 5700 N. 10th St., requested by Melden & Hunt Inc.

The commission will also consider city-initiated rezonings as part of the ongoing transition from the Old Code to the new Unified Development Code.

Conditional Use Permits

The commission will consider the following conditional use permit requests, each for one year:

• A smoke/vape shop at 4121 N. 10th St., Suite 600, requested by Mariela Garza on behalf of Just Puff LLC

• A bar, La Cantina, at 300 S. 17th St., requested by Jorge Luis Garza

Regular Meeting: Consent Agenda

The consent agenda includes the following items:

• Approval of minutes from the Aug. 10 and Aug. 27 workshops and regular meetings

• A resolution authorizing the city manager to submit a grant application to the U.S. Economic Development Administration for the McAllen Back to School Bash

• A resolution authorizing the city manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with McAllen ISD for the McAllen Back to School Bash

• Award of a contract for Back to School Bash entertainment and equipment

• A resolution authorizing the city manager to execute an interlocal agreement with the City of San Juan for fire protection and emergency medical services

• A resolution authorizing submission of a grant application to the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program for Miller International Airport pavement rehabilitation

• A resolution authorizing submission of a grant application to the Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division for Miller International Airport pavement rehabilitation

• Award of a contract for pavement rehabilitation at Miller International Airport

• Authorization to negotiate scope and fees with the top-ranked firm for a McAllen Sports Tourism Study

• A resolution authorizing the city manager to execute Amendment No. 3 to the agreement with Freese and Nichols Inc. for the Active Transportation Plan

• Authorization to negotiate scope and fees with the top-ranked firm for the McAllen Civic Center Needs Assessment

• Award of a contract for City Hall security improvements

• A resolution approving the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan amendment for the Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships programs and authorizing submission to HUD

Regular Meeting: Ordinances

The commission will consider the following ordinances:

• Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget

• Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 tax rate

• A budget amendment for the Back to School Bash

Regular Meeting: Executive Session

The commission is expected to convene in executive session to discuss pending litigation, legal aspects of contracts, and personnel matters.

Source - City of McAllen

McAllen, McAllen ISD, Board of Trustees, Enrollment, Tax Rate, Student Outreach

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Independent School District Board of Trustees received a detailed enrollment report showing more than 1,000 registered students failed to show up for the first day of school, and adopted the district’s 2026 property tax rate, unchanged from the prior year, during its Sept. 22 meeting.

Enrollment Report

Lisa Cavazos, director of strategic partnerships and student outreach, presented a comprehensive report on district enrollment, recruitment and recapture efforts.

Cavazos said McAllen ISD’s geographic boundary contains 23,006 school-age children, of whom about 70%, or 16,066 students, are enrolled in a McAllen ISD school. Of the remaining students not enrolled with the district, about 65% attend another public school, with IDEA Public Schools drawing the largest share at approximately 2,000 students, followed by South Texas ISD and Vanguard. The remaining roughly 35% are enrolled in homeschool, private school, online programs, or are not attending school at all, according to the report.

Cavazos said the district also draws approximately 2,858 transfer students from outside its boundaries, led by Edinburg CISD (about 1,200 students, or 42%), Sharyland ISD (about 700 students, or 25%), and PSJA.

Cavazos reported the district ended last school year with 19,196 students, graduating 15,139 seniors. Accounting for expected rollover students and new pre-K enrollment, the district anticipated approximately 17,657 returning students. However, Cavazos said 1,023 students who had completed registration, including receiving a Skyward student ID number, did not show up for the first day of school.

“Did not show up,” Cavazos confirmed in response to a trustee’s question. As of the meeting, the district had recaptured approximately 320 to 330 of those students, or about 32%. Cavazos said student outreach staff completed more than 1,015 phone calls, reaching 99% of the affected families. Reasons cited by families included relocation (12%), enrollment at another school (10%), and various barriers such as transportation issues (14%); about 10 families asked not to be contacted again.

Current enrollment as of the meeting stood at 18,971 students, according to Cavazos, with a district recapture and recruitment goal of 19,200 students by the state’s official snapshot date at the end of October. Cavazos said elementary grades, particularly pre-K through fourth grade, represent the only segment of the district experiencing enrollment losses overall, while middle and high school cohorts grew this year.

Trustee Sofia Peña asked why the district loses students at the pre-K to kindergarten transition specifically. Cavazos explained that federal Head Start pre-K programs serve some students who do not live within McAllen ISD boundaries and may leave the district once they age out of the program, and that the data is complicated by the district’s separate pre-K3 and pre-K4 programs.

Trustee Roberto A. Carreon asked about the financial impact of the enrollment shortfall. Deputy Superintendent for Business and Operations Lorena Garcia said the district is projecting approximately $1.8 million less in state funding as a result of the attendance decline, based on the district’s average daily attendance calculation. Garcia said the district budgeted for 92% average daily attendance relative to enrollment, but is currently tracking closer to 91%, consistent with the prior year’s final calculation from the Texas Education Agency. Garcia said the district’s new flexible school day program, approved by the state, will help recapture some lost attendance revenue by allowing the district to offset up to 10% of student absences per six-week period, an increase from the previous first-semester-only allowance.

Carreon also raised the possibility of the district accepting partial-day enrollment from students using state education savings accounts or the forthcoming federal educational tax credit scholarship program, suggesting the district could serve students for a portion of the school day, such as a single course, to help offset declining full-time enrollment. “It might be in our best interest, as we consider our world of declining enrollment, to consider ways in which we could shore up expenses by serving, if not a full ADA, then a portion of a student’s day,” Carreon said.

Trustee Aaron Rivera asked about the district’s dropout tracking. Cavazos and staff said only three students districtwide remain unaccounted for and could potentially be classified as dropouts under the state’s reporting code, with high schools and middle schools having already completed their state-required leaver reporting ahead of a Sept. 25 deadline.

Trustees Elizabeth Kittleman and Erica de la Garza-Lopez raised concerns about communication breakdowns between the student outreach department and individual campuses, citing instances where families believed their children were enrolled but were not assigned a classroom. Cavazos acknowledged the issue and said the department is working to strengthen coordination with campuses under an internal customer-service approach she described as “start with yes.” Board President Rogelio Regalado Rivera asked the department to bring more detailed goals and return-on-investment metrics for active recruitment spending in future reports.

Budget Amendment

The board approved the district’s August 2026 budget amendment for the current fiscal year, which includes a $269,000 revision to revenue and $1.2 million in expenditure adjustments, for a net change of $996,273. Garcia said the majority of the expenditure changes represent carry-forward purchase orders for projects begun in the prior fiscal year, including unfinished high school science labs, Nikki Rowe High School band uniforms, McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium upgrades, and districtwide silent panic alarm technology installation. The amendment also recognizes $200,000 in grant funding for the Dorothea Brown Middle School parking lot project and initial funding for construction related to new scratch-cooking equipment at the district’s central kitchen.

Investment Reports

Garcia presented the district’s quarterly investment report for April through June 2026, reporting $171,570 in interest earned at an average yield of 3.7%. Philip Jones, of Meeder Public Funds, presented the district’s annual investment report for the period of July 2025 through June 2026, reporting a portfolio valued at approximately $129 million as of June 30, and annual interest income of approximately $6.2 million. Jones said the average yield declined from 4.25% to 3.7% over the year, reflecting Federal Reserve interest rate cuts, though he noted the Fed’s most recent action was a rate increase aimed at addressing inflation concerns.

2026 Tax Rate

The board adopted the district’s 2026 property tax rate, keeping the total rate unchanged from the prior year at $0.9322 per $100 of taxable value, consisting of a maintenance and operations rate of $0.7954 and an interest and sinking rate of $0.1368.

Garcia explained that a new state law, Senate Bill 1453, required the district to calculate a minimum interest and sinking rate tied strictly to scheduled debt service, calculated at $0.1332, and to justify the proposed rate of $0.1368, which includes an additional buffer against potential collection shortfalls on the district’s 2026 bond issuance, according to the district’s financial advisor, Estrada Hinojosa. Because the proposed rate exceeded that minimum calculation, the adoption required two separate motions and record votes: one specifically addressing the debt service rate, and a second addressing the total tax rate. Both passed unanimously, 7-0.

Garcia said the district’s calculated no-new-revenue rate for 2026 was $0.9402, higher than the adopted rate, meaning the district will collect less revenue this year than the same tax rate would have generated last year. Garcia said McAllen ISD remains the second-lowest taxing school district among neighboring districts, and that the average household in the district will pay $243.38 less in school taxes in 2026 compared to 2025.

McAllen, City of McAllen, Community Satisfaction Survey

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen has released results from its 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey, showing McAllen scored above national and Texas averages in several areas.

According to survey results, 84% of residents reported being satisfied with McAllen as a place to live, 82% reported satisfaction with McAllen as a place to raise a family, 77% reported a feeling of safety, and 73% reported satisfaction with McAllen as a place to work.

The survey also identified community priorities, including mobility, focused on traffic and congestion and pedestrian access; infrastructure, focused on streets and stormwater; public safety, focused on police visibility and emergency management; and city services, focused on code enforcement and animal care.

City officials thanked residents who participated in the survey, saying the feedback helps the city understand what’s working, where it can improve, and what matters most to the community.

An interactive look at the full survey findings is available here.

Source - City of McAllen

McAllen, City of McAllen, Purchasing Department, Now Hiring

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen’s Purchasing & Contracting Department is hiring for the position of Buyer II.

The position will be responsible for purchasing goods and services, preparing bid solicitation documents and addendums, processing purchasing requests and forms, maintaining records, conducting labor interviews, and attending project meetings, according to the city.

Candidates should be detail-oriented, organized and skilled in procurement, with a commitment to compliance and public service.

Those interested can apply at www.mcallen.net/careers

Source - City of McAllen

McAllen, City Commission, Proposed Budget, McAllen Public Library, Golf Course, Sidewalk Variance

Arnoldo Mata

McAllen TX - The McAllen City Commission held its regular meeting Sept. 14, holding a public hearing on the city’s proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget, advancing a construction manager selection for the city’s golf course renovation, and addressing several rezoning and sidewalk variance requests.

Proposed Budget Public Hearing

The commission held a public hearing on the city’s proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget. City Manager Isaac J. Tawil presented budget highlights, recommending the city maintain its current tax rate of 44.89 cents per $100 valuation. Tawil said the proposed combined budget totals $647,224,565, including water and wastewater system appropriations.

Tawil said the budget includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for city staff, which carries a $2.4 million impact to the general fund. General fund appropriations total $180 million, leaving an unassigned ending fund balance of $109 million and 235 days of working capital, 95 days above the city’s required minimum. The budget includes debt service of $30.4 million, capital outlay of $258 million, and operations totaling $359 million.

Tawil said the tax rate would generate approximately $1.5 million in new revenue from property added to the tax roll this year, but noted the city would collect about $675,000 less revenue than last year from existing properties, due to required reappraisals of non-homestead properties and new business personal property tax exemptions.

Twelve new full-time positions are included in the budget, including two photojournalists for the Office of Communications, a deputy director for the traffic department, a designer for the engineering department, an accounting supervisor and additional operations staff for Quinta Mazatlán, an operations coordinator for the convention center, and an assistant director of bridge administration at the toll bridge. Tawil said many of the new positions are tied to the upcoming opening of the Center for Urban Ecology.

Top capital projects included in the budget include the city’s brackish groundwater desalination water treatment plant, airport improvements, golf course renovations, the MCC Industrial Park, wastewater projects, an underground trail project at Ware Road, and convention center facility upgrades. Tawil said the city is budgeting more capital projects at more conservative dollar amounts this year, in part to keep projects “shovel-ready” for competing federal and state grant opportunities.

No members of the public spoke during the hearing. The commission is expected to consider formal adoption of the budget and tax rate at a future meeting.

Golf Course Construction Manager Selection

The commission approved moving forward to interview the top three respondents to a request for qualifications for construction manager-at-risk services for the city’s new golf course project: Heritage Links, Greenscapes 6, and Mid America Golf and Landscape. No schedule was discussed regarding the timeline

Proclamations

The commission proclaimed September 2026 as McAllen Public Library Month. Commissioner Michael Fallek read the proclamation, which noted the library offers more than 350,000 items for checkout and provides an estimated annual value of more than $48 million in library use to the community. Library Director Kate Horan and staff, joined by library mascot Marty the Library Cat, thanked the commission and highlighted the library’s new McAllen Kids library card design featuring Marty, unveiled for children signing up for their first library card during September’s Library Card Sign-Up Month.

The commission proclaimed Sept. 17-23, 2026, as Constitution Week. Commissioner Rodolfo “Rudy” Castillo read the proclamation, marking the 239th anniversary of the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. Representatives of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Mara Lee Moats and Cheyenne Zink, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the organization.

The commission proclaimed Sept. 25, 2026, as National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims. Mayor Pro Tem Pepe Cabeza de Vaca read the proclamation, which recognized four former McAllen police officers killed in the line of duty: Officer Heriberto Garza, 45; Officer Ismael Chavez, 39; Officer Reynaldo Lopez, 47; and Officer Rosalinda Suarez Jr., 23. The proclamation also noted the Rio Grande Valley Family and Friends of Murdered Children has served more than 2,400 families in the region since 2013, and that the organization will host its 14th annual candlelight vigil Sept. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Jose “Pepe” Salinas Memorial Recreation Center in Pharr.

A representative of the organization, identified as Mr. Garcia, spoke about his brother’s murder 15 years ago and read the names of several homicide victims from the region, urging city leaders to attend the upcoming vigil. “The journey of grief is real,” Garcia said. “There are victims. We’re the forgotten victims because we don’t see the victim daily... but everybody has a name for it.”

Public Hearings

The commission approved several routine rezonings and conditional use permits recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission on Aug. 18, including a rezoning at 2700 South 26½ Street, a rezoning at 3800 State Highway 107, a conditional use permit for an associated recreation use at 10421 North 34th Street, and a conditional use permit for a cigar lounge at 803 North 10th Street. The commission also approved a city-initiated rezoning of 189 parcels, bringing the city’s overall zoning conversion to its new Unified Development Code to 19%.

Consent Agenda

The commission approved its consent agenda without discussion.

Land Surveying Services Contract

The commission approved a negotiated fee schedule for annual land surveying services with a previously approved pool of firms.

Byron Nelson Drainage Project Change Order

The commission approved a change order of $158,121.05 and seven additional calendar days for the 2nd Street at Byron Nelson Avenue drainage improvements project, closing out the city’s 2018 bond program. Staff said cost overruns were tied to pavement reconstruction necessitated by an abandoned gas line and additional waterline adjustments. A commissioner asked about damage to a nearby hike and bike trail caused during construction; staff said cleanup items remain outstanding as part of the project’s punch list before final payment is released.

TML Intergovernmental Risk Pool Election

The commission approved a resolution casting the city’s vote in the Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool Board of Trustees election, including a vote for City Manager Isaac Tawil for the Place 3 seat.

Variance Requests

The commission approved a variance request to not extend North 49th Street to Pecan Boulevard for property at 4801 Pecan Blvd., consistent with a staff recommendation for approval.

The commission denied a variance request to eliminate a required north-south quarter-mile collector street for the proposed Star Subdivision at 401 East Dicker Road. City staff had recommended disapproval of the variance, while the Planning & Zoning Commission had recommended approval. Commissioners questioned the discrepancy in property ownership among affected tracts before voting to deny the variance, effectively requiring the collector road.

Advisory Board Appointments

The commission approved several advisory board nominations: Commissioner Joaquin “J.J.” Zamora nominated Jonathan Stevens to the Convention Center Advisory Board; Commissioner Tony Aguirre nominated Jose Evan Garcia to the Traffic Commission Board; Commissioner Rolando “Rolly” Rios nominated Alejandra Vallejo to the McAllen Housing Finance Corporation; Commissioner Michael Fallek nominated Juan Mujica to the Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals; and Mayor Pro Tem Pepe Cabeza de Vaca nominated Alex Lamela to the Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals. Staff noted the Convention Center Advisory Board currently lacks sufficient members to hold meetings due to a lack of quorum and requested additional nominations.

Future Agenda Items

Commissioners requested future updates on beautification of the 2nd Street hike and bike trail, a citywide streetlight update, and progress on AEP infrastructure work in the southern part of the city, including work near Mile 3 and Military Highway. A commissioner also requested consideration of rehabilitating degraded sections of asphalt along the Bicentennial Hike and Bike Trail.

Tabled Items

The commission removed from the table and approved a contract with Aerostar Environmental and Construction LLC for $174,400 for airport rescue firefighting trucks, necessary to transition away from a firefighting foam no longer available for purchase in the United States due to carcinogenic concerns.

The commission also removed from the table and addressed a sidewalk variance request for the proposed Pecina Estates Subdivision at 841 E. Pineridge Ave. Engineer Kelly Vela, representing the applicant, was present to answer questions. The commission approved variances eliminating sidewalk requirements along East Nassau Avenue and East Pine Ridge Avenue, consistent with staff recommendations, but denied a variance request to eliminate the sidewalk requirement along South 8th Street, requiring sidewalks to be installed there. One commissioner amended an earlier vote following discussion, resulting in a final 6-1 vote on the Nassau Avenue portion of the request.

Executive Session

The commission authorized the city manager and city attorney to proceed as discussed regarding two executive session items.

McAllen, City Commission, Brackish Groundwater Desalination Facility, McAllen Public Utility, Carollo Engineers

Arnoldo Mata

McAllen TX - The McAllen City Commission held a workshop Sept. 14 to review ongoing planning and engineering design for the city’s brackish groundwater desalination facility, a project intended to provide McAllen with a water supply independent of the Rio Grande.

Sergio Espinosa, an engineer with Carollo Engineers, presented an update on the project alongside representatives from McAllen Public Utility, hydrogeology firm RWH, and other project partners.

Espinosa said the project began with a study of 170 acres owned by MPU near its existing water plant, where four test wells were initially planned to assess groundwater quality and volume. Following test drilling, hydrogeologists determined the site could support five well locations rather than four, and could produce 10 million gallons per day of raw brackish groundwater rather than the original estimate of 8 million gallons per day. The project is now designed for 90% water recovery, yielding 9 million gallons per day of potable water, using 13 wells across the five sites — five deep wells, five intermediate wells and three shallow wells.

Espinosa said the project requires deep well injection to dispose of concentrated brine waste produced by the reverse osmosis treatment process, noting that without deep injection, the city would need to blend the waste with several million gallons of surface or groundwater daily to meet discharge permit limits.

The project is being funded in part through a low-interest loan from the Texas Water Development Board’s State Water Implementation Fund for Texas program, with annual commitments of $30 million in year one, $49.3 million in year two, $51.3 million in year three, $44.8 million in year four, and $19.7 million in the final year.

Espinosa said the project will be divided into four separate design and construction packages to attract more local contractors and control costs: raw water production wells, estimated at $35.7 million; raw water yard piping and electrical facilities, estimated at $10.1 million; the desalination plant and related facilities, estimated at $121.6 million; and deep injection wells, estimated at $15.2 million, for a total estimated construction cost of $182.7 million. Espinosa cautioned that the figures remain estimates and that attracting more contractor bids could affect final costs.

Under the current project timeline, bidding for the raw water production wells and related yard piping and electrical work is expected to begin as early as May 2027, with completion of the 13 production wells targeted for June 2028 and substantial completion of the desalination plant targeted for December 2030.

A project team member said the city has already applied for a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality discharge permit for surface disposal and is pursuing a Hidalgo County Drainage District permit as a secondary discharge option.

Staff also noted that the city’s water system has recently reached record demand, with the south water plant reaching a peak of 40 million gallons per day in recent weeks, compared to a previous peak of 35 million gallons per day, which staff attributed to unusually hot conditions extending into September.

In response to questions from commissioners, project representatives said the facility’s 13 wells would range from 350 to 400 feet deep for shallow wells and up to 800 to 850 feet deep for deeper wells, while two deep injection wells would extend approximately 5,000 to 6,000 feet deep into a separate aquifer and geologic strata to prevent contamination of the freshwater aquifer. Representatives said the project has been modeled to sustain 30 years of continuous production at 10 million gallons per day, though actual operations are expected to run at a lower, more sustainable rate.

Asked about the facility’s effect on the city’s dependence on the Rio Grande, a project representative said the effort began about 18 months ago after regional reservoir levels fell to 17%, prompting the city to pursue a water source independent of the river. The new facility would provide additional capacity at the city’s north water plant, which currently produces 10 to 11 million gallons per day, compared to a rated capacity of about 54 million gallons per day at the city’s south plant. Combined, the north plant’s capacity would increase to about 20 million gallons per day. Representatives said the plant’s production could be adjusted throughout the year to help meet the city’s overall water demand, which ranges from about 18 to 20 million gallons per day in winter months to as much as 40 million gallons per day during peak summer demand.

A commissioner asked whether the well drilling process would be similar to oil drilling techniques. Project representatives confirmed that wells are cased and cemented using a similar drilling process, but do not involve hydraulic fracturing, and instead use manufactured slotted steel screens to prevent sand production.

Commissioners also asked about the project’s cost trajectory compared to unsuccessful desalination efforts in other Texas cities. Project representatives said dividing the project into four separate bid packages, rather than awarding it to a single general contractor, was intended to reduce markup costs and control overall project expenses. One commissioner voiced support for the approach, saying it could help control costs, while acknowledging the added complexity of managing multiple contractors.

Staff noted the city previously received a $9.6 million grant from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and has submitted an application for additional federal funding under a second phase of that program.

Asked whether the project would require an additional water rate increase, MPU representatives said they do not anticipate one at this time, based on current cost estimates, though they noted utilities typically implement modest rate increases every three to five years to address inflation and maintenance costs. Representatives said the total project cost was originally estimated at $185 million when it was first presented to the commission more than a year ago.

MPU representatives said the city’s water rates remain below the Rio Grande Valley average, which includes Weslaco, Harlingen, Donna, Brownsville, Mission and Edinburg, based on typical residential consumption of 10,000 gallons per month.

Project representatives said they would provide the commission with updates after each phase of the project moving forward.

McAllen, Sales Tax Allocation, Texas Comptroller, Don Huffines, Hidalgo County

Staff Report

McAllen TX - McAllen received $8,646,783.48 in its September sales tax allocation payment, an increase of $668,218.04, or 8.37%, compared to the comparable payment a year earlier of $7,978,565.44, according to data released by the Texas Comptroller’s office.

Year-to-date, McAllen has received $81,419,238.95 in sales tax allocations, up $5,879,314.11, or 7.78%, compared to $75,539,924.84 during the same period last year.

McAllen’s September allocation is based on sales made in July by businesses that report taxes monthly, according to the Comptroller’s office.

McAllen remains the largest recipient of sales tax revenue among Hidalgo County cities, both for September and year-to-date. The city’s September payment accounted for about 35.9% of the $24,068,768.38 distributed countywide for the month, and its year-to-date total accounts for about 37.2% of the county’s $218,785,128.67 year-to-date total.

Hidalgo County as a whole received $24,068,768.38 in September, an increase of $1,907,817.71, or 8.61%, compared to $22,160,950.67 in September 2025. Year-to-date, the county has received $218,785,128.67, an increase of $11,249,793.54, or 5.42%, compared to $207,535,335.13 during the same period last year.

Statewide, the Texas Comptroller’s office distributed $1.3 billion in sales tax allocations to local governments for September, up 7.6% compared to September 2025. Of that total, cities statewide received $816.5 million, an 8.1% increase over September 2025 and a 6.2% increase year-to-date. McAllen’s September growth rate of 8.37% closely tracked the statewide city growth rate, and its year-to-date growth of 7.78% outpaced both the statewide city year-to-date growth rate and the Hidalgo County year-to-date growth rate.

Among the county’s largest cities, McAllen’s September dollar increase of $668,218.04 was the largest of any city in the county. Pharr, the third-largest recipient, posted a September payment of $2,917,651.24, up 11.79% year-over-year, while Edinburg, the second-largest recipient, posted a September payment of $3,688,637.05, up 10.50% year-over-year. Mission’s September payment was $2,545,726.88, up 7.26%.

Source - Texas Comptroller’s Office; Hidalgo County sales tax allocation data

McAllen, City Commission, Budget Workshop, Brackish Groundwater Desalination Facility, Rezoning

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen City Commission will hold a workshop Monday, Sept. 14, at 4 p.m., followed by its regular meeting at 5 p.m., both at McAllen City Hall.

Public Hearing - Budget

The commission will hold a public hearing on the City of McAllen’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. In August, the commission had voted to maintain the 2026-27 tax rate at $0.448989 per $100 valuation, unchanged from the current year.

Under Texas law, cities must follow "truth-in-taxation" procedures before adopting a property tax rate. A city must calculate and publish its no-new-revenue rate (the rate that would generate the same revenue as the prior year) and its voter-approval rate (the highest rate the city can adopt without triggering an election), and must hold a public hearing before adopting any rate that exceeds the no-new-revenue rate. The city must also hold a public hearing on its proposed budget, file the budget for public inspection, and adopt it by ordinance; state law generally requires the budget to be adopted before the tax rate, though both can occur at the same meeting as long as the budget is adopted first as a separate agenda item. The tax rate must ultimately be adopted no later than Sept. 30 or the 60th day after the city receives its certified appraisal roll, whichever is later.

Workshop

The workshop will include a presentation on ongoing planning and engineering design efforts related to the Brackish Groundwater Desalination Facility.

Proclamations

The regular meeting will include proclamations recognizing McAllen Public Library Month, Constitution Week, and the National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims.

Public Hearing - Rezonings

The commission will hold a public hearing on several routine rezonings and conditional use permits recommended for approval by the Planning & Zoning Commission, including a rezoning at 2700 South 26½ Street, a rezoning at 3800 State Highway 107, a conditional use permit for an associated recreation use at 10421 North 34th Street requested by Garman Real Estate Development LLC, and a conditional use permit for a cigar lounge at 803 North 10th Street requested by Sarahi Duarte on behalf of Monroe Cigar Bar LLC.

The commission will also consider a series of city-initiated rezonings updating zoning classifications under the city’s new Unified Development Code across numerous properties, including areas along South Jackson Road, South McColl Road, and near Quinta Mazatlan.

Consent Agenda

The commission will consider approval of minutes from budget workshops held Aug. 5, 12 and 18, and the workshop and regular meeting held Aug. 24; approval of various city surplus vehicles and equipment; and resolutions to accept two Federal Aviation Administration grants.

Bids and Contracts

The commission will consider approval of a Construction Manager-At-Risk proposal qualification for the city’s new golf course project; a contract award for annual land surveying services; and a change order for the 2nd Street at Byron Nelson Avenue drainage improvements project.

Resolution

The commission will consider a resolution casting a vote for the Texas Municipal League Intergovernmental Risk Pool Board of Trustees election.

Variances

The commission will consider a variance request to not extend North 49th Street to Pecan Boulevard for the proposed Pecan Plaza Subdivision, and a variance request to not provide a north-south quarter-mile collector road for the proposed Star Subdivision at 401 East Dicker Road.

Manager’s Report

The commission will consider advisory board appointments and discuss future agenda items.

Tabled Items

The commission will revisit a tabled item regarding the award of contract for an airport rescue firefighting apparatus foam transition project, and a tabled variance request for sidewalk requirements for the proposed Pecina Estates Subdivision at 841 E. Pineridge Ave.

Executive Session

The commission will convene in executive session to discuss the possible lease, sale or purchase of real property and economic development matters, both during the workshop and the regular meeting.

McAllen, Passport Division, Vitals, Birth and Death Records

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen’s Passport Division and Vitals, Birth & Death Records office will open Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Downtown Parking Garage, 221 S. 15th St.

Passport services will be available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and vitals services will be available from 8 a.m. to noon, both on a first-come, first-served basis.

Residents are asked to bring a valid ID, and a check or money order is required, according to the city.

For questions, call 956-681-1450 for passports or 956-681-1195 for vitals. Full requirements are available at mcallen.net/departments/secretary/passports.

Source - City of McAllen

McAllen, City of McAllen, Grant Administration, Now Hiring

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen is hiring for the position of Grant Development Specialist within its Grant Administration department.

The position will research and identify funding opportunities, develop and write grant proposals, and collaborate with city departments to secure resources supporting community priorities, according to the city.

Candidates should have strong writing and research skills, according to the job posting.

Those interested can apply at mcallen.net/careers.

Source - City of McAllen

McAllen, Hispanic Heritage Month, Saltillo, Diplomacy, Cross-Border Partnership

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen will host a morning of diplomacy on Tuesday, Sept. 1, at 10 a.m., celebrating longstanding connections between McAllen and Mexico, as part of the city’s annual National Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.

The event, to be held at the McAllen Performing Arts Center, 801 Convention Center Blvd., will welcome members of the diplomatic corps, government officials and business leaders, including city officials from Saltillo, according to the city.

Mayor Javier Villalobos, the McAllen City Commission, City Manager Isaac J. Tawil and city leadership are expected to attend. The event will feature keynote presentations from the City of Saltillo highlighting cross-border collaboration, economic partnerships and shared opportunities for growth.

Doors open at 9:30 a.m.

Source - City of McAllen

McAllen, McAllen Fire Department, Now Hiring, Fire Emergency Communications Specialist

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Fire Department is hiring for the full-time position of Fire Emergency Communications Specialist.

The position requires an accredited high school diploma or GED equivalent and pays $18.54 per hour, according to the department.

Those interested can apply at mcallen.applicantpro.com/jobs/4185096.

Source - McAllen Fire Department

McAllen, Ticketopolis, Soft-Landing Pilot Program, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, World Trade Center Monterrey

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen is celebrating the first successful completion of its Soft-Landing Pilot Program as Mexican technology company Ticketopolis establishes its U.S. headquarters in the city.

Ticketopolis, founded by Fernando Medellin and Blanca Guerra, provides a cloud-based, AI-powered platform that helps organizations plan, manage and execute events.

According to the city, Ticketopolis’ journey to McAllen began in 2024 at Café con Texas in Monterrey, a cross-border business and networking event organized by the World Trade Center Monterrey at the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León. The introduction developed into a partnership between Ticketopolis, the World Trade Center Monterrey, the city’s Offices of International Relations and Retail and Business Development, and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

Through the Soft-Landing Pilot Program, Ticketopolis gained access to local resources, business leaders and experts as it explored expansion into the U.S. market. The company chose McAllen as the home of its U.S. headquarters and has since become a member of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

City Manager Isaac J. Tawil said Ticketopolis’ decision reflects the opportunities available in McAllen. “Ticketopolis choosing McAllen is a powerful statement about the unique opportunities our community offers,” Tawil said. “Together, we will help support their mission to create new opportunities, strengthen the business community and show international companies that McAllen is a place where they can put down roots and grow.”

Mayor Javier Villalobos said the partnership reflects the value of cross-border connections. “I recently attended the 2026 Café con Texas in Monterrey, and opportunities like this demonstrate the importance of building strong connections,” Villalobos said. “Ticketopolis’ success shows what is possible when international businesses have access to the right resources and partnerships. Through initiatives like McAllen Means Business, we are continuing to create those connections and open the door for more businesses to trust McAllen.”

Dr. Eugenio Reyes, director of the World Trade Center Monterrey at the Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, attended the event and highlighted Ticketopolis as an example of how cross-border partnerships can help businesses successfully enter the U.S. market.

More information about the Soft-Landing Program is available at mcallenmeansbusiness.com under the International tab.

Source - City of McAllen

McAllen, City Commission, Tax Rate, Games of Texas, Maddie Alonso, Rezoning, Sidewalk Variance

Arnoldo Mata

McAllen TX - The McAllen City Commission voted Aug. 24 to maintain the city’s current tax rate for the coming fiscal year, recognized local athletes for their performance at the Games of Texas, and tabled a sidewalk variance request for a family subdivision near South 8th Street.

Tax Rate

The commission approved a proposed 2026 tax rate of $0.448989 per $100 valuation, unchanged from the current year. Because the rate exceeds the no-new-revenue rate of $0.444778, state law requires the city to publish a notice describing it as a “public hearing on tax increase,” even though the rate itself is not increasing.

Becky Grimes, with the city’s finance office, said a record vote was needed to proceed with the required notice and set a public hearing for Sept. 28, 2026, at 5 p.m., with adoption of the tax rate expected to follow at that same meeting. “I do want to emphasize it must read a notice of public hearing on tax increase, but we are not increasing the tax rate,” Grimes said.

City staff noted that anticipated growth in the tax base of about 2% was reduced to an effective levy increase of about 0.06% due to exemptions and valuation changes this year. Assistant City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez said the recommended rate reflects a “maintenance of the tax rate from last budget year.”

Mayor Javier Villalobos thanked city staff and the commission for their work through the budget process. “Initially, we were looking at possibly an increase, and thanks to the hard work of staff and, of course, the commission, we’re going to keep it the same,” Villalobos said. “That doesn’t mean that maybe next year or in a couple of years we may have to do the inevitable. But today, I’m glad to tell the residents of McAllen that we’re going to stay the same.”

The commission approved the record vote unanimously.

Games of Texas Recognition

The commission recognized more than 670 Texas Amateur Athletic Federation summer athletes who represented Team McAllen in golf, track, swimming and tennis at the Games of Texas State meet, held July 30 through Aug. 2 in College Station. The athletes earned a total of 18 medals, with 14 additional athletes finishing in the top eight.

The commission also honored Maddie Alonso, a 9-year-old fourth grader at Gonzalez Elementary, who competed at the 2026 National State Games in State College, Pennsylvania, winning three gold medals, one silver medal and one bronze medal. Alonso was named the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation Region Two Female Athlete of the Year among more than 3,500 athletes in the region.

Rezonings

The commission approved five customer-initiated rezonings, three conditional use permits, and a city-initiated rezoning affecting 602 parcels, following recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission. No members of the public spoke against any of the items. The rezonings included property along South McColl Road, North 8th Street, East Wichita Avenue, North 10th Street and Tres Lagos Boulevard. The conditional use permits included two bar/restaurant permits and one for a church.

Uncollectible Tax Accounts

The commission approved removing certain delinquent tax accounts from the city’s tax roll, citing cases where the cost of legal action would exceed the amount owed. “Say an account owes $50. The cost of a suit well outweighs that cost alone,” a city finance representative said.

Construction Contract Amendment

The commission approved a $977,987 supplemental agreement for consultant construction management services tied to a construction contract that has significantly exceeded its original timeline. The consultant’s scope covers construction administration, resident project representation and materials testing. The original construction contract called for 415 calendar days; the contractor’s current completion date reflects roughly 1,400 days, according to a project engineer. The additional consultant fees are funded through a federal grant, with 90% federal funds and a 10% local match, and staff said the added cost will be covered by liquidated damages assessed against the contractor.

Commissioners questioned staff about the extended timeline and whether liquidated damages built into the contract were sufficient. The commission recessed into executive session to discuss the matter before returning to open session and approving the item.

Sidewalk Variance Tabled

The commission tabled a sidewalk variance request for a proposed 10-lot family subdivision near Nassau Avenue, South 8th Street and Pine Ridge Avenue. City staff had recommended denial of variances for Nassau Avenue and South 8th Street, but approval of a variance for Pine Ridge Avenue, consistent with a similar variance previously granted to an adjacent subdivision.

Kelly Vella, an engineer with Rio Plex Engineering representing property owner Antonia Pasina, said the subdivision is a family development, with the owner and several prospective buyers already living in or connected to the surrounding neighborhood. Vella said requiring sidewalks on individual lots would create disconnected segments that do not link to a broader sidewalk network, and that the cost would fall on individual homeowners rather than a developer, estimated at about $5,000 for corner lots and about $1,500 for other lots.

Commissioners raised questions about existing sidewalk gaps in the area and asked to review each of the three street segments individually rather than voting on the variance as a whole. The commission voted to table the item for further review.

Executive Session

The commission authorized the city manager and city attorney to proceed as discussed in executive session regarding four items; no additional details were disclosed in open session.

Source - McAllen City Commission Regular Meeting, Aug. 24, 2026

McAllen, McAllen Police Department, Civil Service Exam, Now Hiring, Victor Rodriguez

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen Police Department is accepting applications for the position of police officer, with a civil service entrance examination scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 13.

Applications became available Friday, Aug. 21, and must be submitted to the City of McAllen Human Resources Department, 1300 Houston Ave., no later than Friday, Sept. 18, at 5 p.m. Applications can be downloaded at www.mcallen.net/advisory-boards/civil-service.

The entrance examination will be administered Oct. 13 at 9 a.m., with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m., at the McAllen Convention Center Ballroom, 700 Convention Center Blvd.

McAllen Police Chief Victor Rodriguez said the opportunity is for individuals who want to serve their community. “When our community calls, police officers answer the call and make every effort to bring comfort, security, and safety,” Rodriguez said. “I encourage anyone who wants to serve and protect the McAllen community to apply.”

The annual base salary for police officers is $67,295, with additional incentive pay and a benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation and sick leave following a one-year probationary period. Benefits also include assignment pay and certification pay incentives.

Officers may be assigned to uniform patrol, canine (K-9) unit, motorcycle unit, criminal investigations, or crime scene investigation, according to the department.

Applicants must meet minimum eligibility requirements, including U.S. citizenship, a high school diploma or GED, and a valid driver’s license. Additional requirements are available on the city’s website.

For more information, contact the City of McAllen Human Resources Department at 956-681-1045 or visit www.mcallen.net/careers.

Source - City of McAllen Police Department

McAllen, City Commission, Budget Workshop, Tax Rate, McAllen Development Corporation

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The McAllen City Commission held a budget workshop Aug. 18, during which city staff recommended maintaining the current tax rate and presented details of the proposed fiscal year budget.

City staff recommended keeping the tax rate at .448989, unchanged from the current rate. Mayor Javier Villalobos confirmed the rate is anticipated to stay the same at this time. There had been discussion of a possible 3-cent increase during previous budget workshops.

Staff said the proposed budget is balanced, with revenue exceeding expenses by roughly $800,000 to $900,000. The overall budget is about $665 million, an increase from the prior year.

Agency Funding

Staff presented recommended general fund agency funding allocations, including $107,000 for Amigos del Valle, $5,000 for Comfort House, $20,000 for the Museum of South Texas History, $10,000 for the McAllen Town Band, $225,000 for the McAllen Symphony Orchestra, $72,000 for the chamber of commerce, $1.1 million for the Boys and Girls Club, $950,000 for the International Museum of Art & Science, $140,000 for the Heritage Center, and $35,000 for CASA.

Staff also presented agency funding recommended out of the McAllen Development Corporation, including $20,000 for Comfort House, $1.1 million for the McAllen Affordable Development Corporation, $100,000 for the Lift Fund, $450,000 for South Texas College’s advanced training and apprenticeship program, $500,000 for South Texas College’s nursing program, $550,000 for VIVA, $200,000 for Nuevo Milenio Clinic, $400,000 for the Boys and Girls Club, $270,000 for Christian’s Manor, and $450,000 for Texas A&M University.

Development Corporation Projects

Staff outlined recurring and new projects funded through the development corporation, including $10,269,000 in rollover projects from the prior year and $7.5 million in agency agreements. New projects recommended for funding include a roundabout on Wisconsin Road at $4.66 million, a new short course driving range at $8 million, a storm sewer outfall project at $650,000, and a $1 million one-time appropriation for equipment at the new University of Texas Rio Grande Valley cancer research center.

Next Steps

Staff said a wrap-up of the budget process, including any changes requested by the commission, will be presented at the Aug. 24 regular city commission workshop. That meeting will also include an initial hearing on the tax rate, requiring a roll call vote. Following that vote, the proposed rate will be published, with final adoption of the budget and tax rate expected at the end of September.

Staff also said additional workshops will be scheduled over the coming months to discuss a debt capacity analysis and a longer-range plan for major capital projects.

Source - McAllen City Commission Budget Workshop, Aug. 18, 2026

McAllen, HGTV, U.S. News & World Report, Best Places to Live, Rankings, Texas Cities

Staff Report

McAllen TX - McAllen ranked No. 27 on HGTV’s list of “The 50 Best Places to Live in the US Right Now,” an article updated Aug. 13, 2026, and written by Felicia Feaster. The rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report’s top American places to live for 2026/2027. KVEO-TV

The list evaluates cities and towns for job market strength, housing affordability, quality of life, and desirability, including their appeal in attracting new residents, according to U.S. News & World Report.

HGTV’s write-up notes McAllen is home to the International Museum of Art & Science and is located in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, an area rich with native plants and trees such as wild olives, desert yaupons and Jerusalem thorns, all on view at Quinta Mazatlan, a nature center in McAllen. KVEO-TV

Sixteen other Texas cities also appeared on the list, according to HGTV:

• No. 9 Frisco

• No. 8 Leander

• No. 10 Sugar Land

• No. 13 League City

• No. 16 Pearland

• No. 17 McKinney

• No. 23 Allen

• No. 24 Cedar Park

• No. 25 Mansfield

• No. 27 McAllen

• No. 28 The Woodlands

• No. 33 Carrollton

• No. 35 Pflugerville

• No. 38 Katy

• No. 43 North Richland Hills

• No. 48 Laredo

Source - HGTV, “The 50 Best Places to Live in the US Right Now,” updated Aug. 13, 2026, citing U.S. News & World Report

McAllen, City of McAllen, Health Code Compliance and Animal Care Services, garage sale permit, onlinepermits

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen’s Health, Code Compliance and Animal Care Services Department is reminding residents that a permit is required to hold a garage sale within city limits. The permit fee is $20 and can be obtained online at onlinepermits.mcallen.net.

Permits are issued Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The last permit is issued daily at 4:30 p.m.

For more information, call (956) 681-1900.

Source - City of McAllen Health, Code Compliance and Animal Care Services

McAllen, Parks and Recreation, Hidalgo County Precinct 4, Ellie Torres, Javier Villalobos, Isaac Tawil, Garza Park, Camp McAllen, McAllen Youth Baseball Complex, La Floresta Park, Morris Perez Park, outdoor fitness, ribbon cutting

Staff Report

McAllen TX - The City of McAllen and Hidalgo County Precinct 4 will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Garza Park, 2601 Lark Ave., to celebrate the installation of new outdoor fitness equipment at five McAllen parks.

The ceremony will be attended by Mayor Javier Villalobos, the City Commission, City Manager Isaac J. Tawil, McAllen Parks and Recreation Department leadership, and Hidalgo County Precinct 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres.

New outdoor fitness equipment has been installed at the following locations:

• Camp McAllen, 8701 N. 23rd St.

• McAllen Youth Baseball Complex, 8201 N. 29th St.

• La Floresta Park, 1800 W. Stanford Ave.

• Morris/Perez Park, 1400 W. Trenton Rd.

• Garza Park, 2601 Lark Ave.

Source - City of McAllen Parks and Recreation Department