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1 month ago

McAllen commission approves phased $3 Uber/Lyft airport fee and permits for TNCs at McAllen International Airport The commission approved one-year, nonexclusive operating permits for ride-hailing companies at McAllen International Airport and a phased schedule to reach a $3 per-trip user fee intended to support terminal expansion debt service; staff estimated roughly 4,000 monthly TNC trips and $4 million in potential debt-service revenue.

McAllen International Airport is set to implement a phased $3 fee for Uber and Lyft rides to fund terminal expansion, but not without some heated debate among city commissioners!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #TransportationFees #CitizenPortal #McAllenAirport #UserCharges

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1 month ago

McAllen commission approves rezoning of downtown under new Unified Development Code after extended public hearing After an extended public hearing with business owners and long-time residents urging caution, the McAllen City Commission voted to rezone a downtown core area under the city''s new Unified Development Code (UDC), a move officials said will speed permitting and broaden allowable uses. The commission also scheduled a community meeting March 25 on related neighborhood concerns.

The McAllen City Commission's recent approval of downtown rezoning promises to reshape the area, igniting debates among residents and business owners about its impact on the community's character and future.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CommunityEngagement #UrbanDevelopment

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1 month ago

McAllen staff outlines airport terminal expansion plan: eight gates now, design for 10 City staff presented a terminal expansion plan that would build eight gates initially—what FAA forecasting supports—while designing the project to accommodate 10 total gates in a later phase; staff detailed mechanical, electrical and utility upgrades and said the city awarded a contract for a 200‑space parking lot to support increased demand.

McAllen's airport terminal is set for a major upgrade, with plans to expand to eight gates now while preparing for a future 10-gate design to meet soaring demand!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #InfrastructureExpansion #CitizenPortal #McAllenAirport #PublicSafety

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1 month ago

McAllen opens Jumpstart Career Expo; speakers say about 200 employers and 12,000 openings City of McAllen speakers opened the Jumpstart Career Expo, saying the event gathered roughly 200 employers and that "12,000 jobs" were available across a four-county region; organizers urged attendees to visit booths and "ring the bell."

The Jumpstart Career Expo in McAllen is set to redefine job opportunities with a staggering 200 employers and 12,000 available positions ready for eager attendees!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #McAllenCareerExpo #JobOpportunities #CommunityEngagement #CitizenPortal

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2 months ago

Mayor Villalobos unveils youth‑focused Par‑3 golf project designed with Lorena Ochoa and partners Mayor Villalobos announced plans for a Par‑3 signature golf course in McAllen intended to engage youth and families; he named designers Rafaela Larkin, Carter Morris and Lorena Ochoa and said the course will be a community amenity.

Mayor Javier Villalobos has unveiled an exciting plan for a youth-focused Par-3 golf course in McAllen, featuring world-ranked player Lorena Ochoa as a design partner!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #McAllenRecreation #CitizenPortal #CommunityAmenities #FamilyFriendly

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2 months ago

Neighbors oppose APS temporary electrical skid; McAllen commission tables permit for outreach and review Residents opposed a two-year conditional-use permit for an APS temporary electrical skid proposed on city-owned land near Buddy Owens, citing noise, aesthetics and property-value concerns. AEP representatives described a 50-by-100-foot footprint and urgent summer readiness needs; the commission voted to table the item pending further outreach and staff follow-up.

Residents in McAllen are raising concerns over a proposed temporary electrical skid, fearing it could disrupt their neighborhood and become a permanent fixture.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #EnvironmentalConcerns #UrbanDevelopment #CitizenPortal #McAllenResidents #CommunityOutreach

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2 months ago

McAllen to build $185 million groundwater desalination plant and secure federal grant for water reliability McAllen Public Utility outlined plans for a $185 million reverse‑osmosis groundwater desalination facility to treat up to 10 million gallons per day, and said it received a $9.6 million U.S. Bureau of Reclamation grant and other investments to bolster long‑term water supply.

McAllen is set to revolutionize its water supply with a groundbreaking $185 million desalination plant that promises to treat 10 million gallons of water daily!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #McAllenWater #InfrastructureInvestment #SustainableWaterManagement

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2 months ago

Mayor Villalobos touts safety, growth and a $578 million budget in McAllen’s 2026 State of the City Mayor Javier Villalobos said McAllen is ‘strong, advancing and serving residents better than ever,’ highlighting falling crime, record retail sales, housing and a $578 million fiscal‑year budget that funds more than 120 capital projects.

Mayor Javier Villalobos announced McAllen's ambitious $578 million budget for 2026, spotlighting record-low crime rates and a booming economy that promises to enhance public safety and housing stability.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CommunityGrowth #CitizenPortal

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2 months ago

McAllen outlines Anzalduas bridge expansion, near‑shoring industrial park and $200M airport terminal project City leaders described plans to expand the Anzalduas International Crossing into a full‑service cargo port, promote a near‑shoring industrial park, and advance a $200 million terminal expansion at McAllen International Airport to support jobs and trade.

McAllen is gearing up for major expansions that promise to transform the city into a hub for international trade and create thousands of jobs!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #EconomicDevelopment #JobCreation #InfrastructureInvestment #McAllenTrade

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2 months ago

McAllen proclaims Rio Grande Valley Navy Week; sailors speak about service and local events McAllen's City Commission proclaimed Jan. 26–Feb. 1, 2026, Rio Grande Valley Navy Week and heard remarks from a Navy official and a local sailor representing USS Gonzalez about Navy outreach, recruiting and planned community events.

McAllen is gearing up for an exciting Rio Grande Valley Navy Week, where locals can meet sailors, explore naval missions, and celebrate the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CommunityEngagement #WorkforceDevelopment #McAllenNavy #CitizenPortal

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2 months ago

McAllen commission approves rezonings, a TABC variance, road consultant award and multiple appointments In a single meeting the McAllen City Commission voted unanimously to approve a slate of rezoning and permit items, renew an alcohol-sales variance at 920 North Main (allowing later hours), award engineering services for the Nolana Avenue widening, authorize negotiations for the Quinta Mazatlan Schoolyard Forest Project, grant variances for a Military Highway industrial park, and confirm numerous advisory-board appointments.

The McAllen City Commission's recent meeting saw a wave of approvals, including a late-night alcohol variance and major transportation projects that could reshape the city.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CommunityDevelopment #PublicSafety #McAllenCityCommission #CitizenPortal

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2 months ago

New McAllen A&M education center opens to train nurses and vets, starts with 24 nursing students Speakers at a McAllen inauguration celebrated the opening of the McAllen A&M Education Center, highlighting a 24‑student initial nursing cohort, plans to add 24–30 students per semester, a state‑of‑the‑art simulation center and a city land donation to support regional healthcare training.

A groundbreaking new education center in McAllen is set to transform healthcare training by launching a nursing program with 24 students and plans to expand, all while keeping Aggie education accessible in the Rio Grande Valley.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #EducationAccess

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3 months ago

McAllen utility begins early planning for brackish groundwater desalination plant McAllen Public Utility has started preliminary engineering and test-well work for a proposed brackish groundwater desalination facility at the Northwest Water Treatment Plant site, estimating 6–10 million gallons per day and seeking funding from the Texas Water Development Board and the Bureau of Reclamation.

McAllen is paving the way for a groundbreaking brackish groundwater desalination facility that could boost water supply by up to 10 million gallons per day!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #ResourceManagement #InfrastructureDevelopment #CitizenPortal #McAllenUtility

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3 months ago

McAllen Public Utilities opens second Rio Grande Valley Utility Conference with regional focus McAllen Public Utilities opened the second annual Rio Grande Valley Utility Conference, thanking sponsors and roughly 50 exhibitors and featuring welcome remarks from City Commissioner Sebi Haddad and board member Ernie Williams on the role of utilities in regional growth.

The second annual Rio Grande Valley Utility Conference kicked off with a powerful focus on the critical role of utilities in shaping our future, from water management to cybersecurity.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #McAllenUtilities #WaterManagement #WorkforceDevelopment

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3 months ago

Rio Grande treaty shortfalls leave Valley facing multi‑year water deficit, keynote warns At the Rio Grande Valley Utility Conference, Sonny Hinojosa said Mexico ended the most recent five‑year treaty cycle in arrears — roughly 865,000 acre‑feet — leaving U.S. storage at about 26.8% and agriculture facing significant shortages unless deliveries are made or other measures taken.

The Rio Grande Valley is facing a looming water crisis, with a staggering 865,000 acre-feet deficit from Mexico threatening agricultural supplies and igniting urgent discussions for solutions.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #McAllenAgriculture #WaterManagement

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4 months ago

Lone Star National Bank sponsors South Pole Illuminated Festival; kids get free admission midweek City and bank leaders announced Lone Star National Bank as a presenting sponsor of McAllen’s South Pole Illuminated Festival and said the bank will provide free admission for children 12 and under on Wednesdays and Thursdays for the festival’s run. Officials described new displays, weekend parades and partner roles.

Get ready for the magic of the South Pole Illuminated Festival in McAllen, where children can enjoy free admission on weekdays and experience dazzling displays, ice skating, and festive parades!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #FamilyEvents #CitizenPortal #CommunityAccess

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4 months ago

McAllen lights up South Pole Illuminated Festival as partners unveil new attractions McAllen kicked off its 2025 South Pole Illuminated Festival at the Convention Center with speeches from city leaders and partners, an upcoming H‑E‑B ice rink attraction, and the Driscoll Electric Parade set for Fridays–Sundays at 8:30 p.m.

McAllen just kicked off its magical South Pole Illuminated Festival, featuring a dazzling tree-lighting ceremony, exciting new attractions, and the electrifying Driscoll Electric Parade!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CivicPartnerships #CitizenPortal #FamilyFun #McAllenFestival

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4 months ago

McAllen names parade grand marshal, announces Carlos Ruiz and Danny Trejo for Dec. 6 holiday parade The City of McAllen announced details for the 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade on Dec. 6, naming the late Joe Vera grand marshal and confirming appearances by soccer legend Carlos Ruiz and actor Danny Trejo, plus scheduled street closures, prize giveaways, and a free Polar Express shuttle.

The 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade will honor founder Joe Vera as grand marshal, with special appearances by soccer legend Carlos Ruiz and actor Danny Trejo, bringing festive excitement to the community!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety

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5 months ago

McAllen unveils South Pole Illuminated Festival lineup, adds indoor ice rink and H‑E‑B community day McAllen city leaders and event partners announced the South Pole Illuminated Festival will run Nov. 28–Dec. 28 with new features including an indoor ice rink called H‑E‑B on Ice, weekend Driscoll Electric Parades, and a H‑E‑B community day offering free admission before 7 p.m. on Dec. 16; tickets are available at southpoleoftexas.com.

Get ready for the magic of the South Pole Illuminated Festival returning to McAllen with spectacular new attractions, including America's tallest digital Christmas tree and an indoor ice rink!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #LocalEconomy #FamilyFun #McAllenFestival

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5 months ago

Hidalgo County breaks ground on North Ruth Road siphon to improve school routes and reduce canal crossing hazards Hidalgo County Precinct 4 officials and Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 1 broke ground on the North Ruth Road siphon project to replace an elevated canal crossing, lower the roadway and remove a historic pool-like canal pocket. Engineers described installation of roughly 400 feet of buried pipe (54-inch and 72-inch segments) and a planned $~

Hidalgo County is taking a major step towards safer school routes with the groundbreaking of the North Ruth Road siphon project, promising improved access for families and students alike!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #PublicAccess #McAllenSchools #CommunitySafety

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5 months ago

McAllen Public Utility board authorizes wholesale water contract with City of Mission at $2.25/1,000 gallons The McAllen Public Utility Board approved a 10-year wholesale water agreement authorizing the general manager to execute a contract with the City of Mission. The agreement mirrors existing wholesale arrangements, provides an initial allocation and sets a rate of $2.25 per 1,000 gallons.

The McAllen Public Utility Board has just sealed a game-changing 10-year water contract with the City of Mission at an unbeatable rate of $2.25 per 1,000 gallons!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #WaterResourceManagement #CommunitySustainability #McAllenUtilities

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5 months ago

McAllen leaders celebrate arts month after state funding boosts; Symphony in the Park, Broadway series named McAllen officials and arts leaders marked National Arts and Humanities Month with a Fall for the Arts event that highlighted new state funding, local programming and plans to expand student access to performance stages. Texas Commission on the Arts representatives said the recent legislative session increased funding statewide and created new grant

McAllen is kicking off National Arts and Humanities Month with exciting new funding and a vibrant season of events, showcasing the essential role of arts in driving tourism and community growth.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #CulturalTourism #McAllenArts #ArtsFunding

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5 months ago

McAllen announces celebrity guests, South Padre Island Welcome Zone and Skybox fan experience for 2025 Holiday Parade City officials used a press conference to unveil celebrity hosts and premium ticketed experiences for the Dec. 6 McAllen Holiday Parade, confirmed returning partners and introduced a new giant helium character balloon. The McAllen International Airport and the Dallas Cowboys announced return of a Skybox fan experience with contest giveaways.

Get ready for the 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade featuring celebrity hosts, an oversized balloon, and exclusive VIP experiences you won't want to miss!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CivicEngagement #CitizenPortal #McAllenHolidayParade #LocalPartnerships #CommunityEvents

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5 months ago

Quinta Mazatlan marks topping off for $86 million Center for Urban Ecology; city touts research, tourism and education benefits City officials and partners marked the placement of a major structural element at Quinta Mazatlan’s Center for Urban Ecology, a roughly $86 million expansion project that officials say will create research, education and eco‑tourism opportunities and is projected to produce significant economic impact.

A groundbreaking $86 million Center for Urban Ecology is set to transform McAllen into a premier destination for research and ecotourism, bringing both economic growth and educational opportunities to the community.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #McAllenEcotourism #CitizenPortal

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5 months ago

McAllen plans push on sports tourism, parks and Quinta Mazatlan improvements City Manager Ike Tewell said McAllen will invest in sports fields, outdoor attractions and botanical projects — including Quinta Mazatlan and Camp McAllen — and partner with schools and nonprofits on recreation and cultural assets.

McAllen is set to transform its landscape with major investments in sports fields and cultural attractions, aiming to become a top destination for tourism and recreation!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #McAllenSports #CulturalAttractions #OutdoorRecreation

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5 months ago

McAllen public utility prepares $300 million desalination project to expand regional water supply City Manager Ike Tewell said McAllen Public Utility will begin construction of test wells and advance a roughly $300 million desalination project intended to supply continuous water to McAllen and neighboring municipalities.

McAllen is set to embark on a groundbreaking $300 million desalination project that promises to transform the region's water supply and foster industrial growth.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #SustainableGrowth #McAllenWater #WaterResilience

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5 months ago

McAllen city manager highlights economic plan as commission adopts budget, trims tax rate City Manager Ike Tewell outlined a growth-focused agenda — citing public safety investments, retail and university partnerships, housing opportunities and workforce development — after the City Commission approved the annual budget and reduced the tax rate slightly.

McAllen's City Manager unveils a bold economic strategy focused on public safety, workforce development, and tourism, all while cutting taxes for residents!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #McAllenEconomy #HousingInvestment #WorkforceDevelopment

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5 months ago

McAllen manager says Anzaldua bridge, freight certification will cut cross‑border transit times and boost industrial demand City Manager Ike Tewell said the Anzaldua International Bridge is nearing operational readiness and will be CTPAT/FAST certified, reducing truck crossing times and improving the region’s appeal for warehousing and logistics.

The Anzaldua International Bridge is set to revolutionize cross-border logistics, slashing truck crossing times and boosting McAllen's industrial demand like never before.

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CitizenPortal #McAllenLogistics #SupplyChainEfficiency #CrossBorderTrade

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5 months ago

McAllen names Raul Brindis, Johnjay & Rich, South Padre Island zone for Dec. 6 holiday parade City of McAllen announced celebrity hosts, a returning South Padre Island Welcome Zone, new giant balloons and the launch of a Santa giveaway as the 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade approaches Dec. 6; tickets for the SPI Welcome Zone are on sale and a follow-up press conference is scheduled Oct. 21.

Get ready for a magical night as the 2025 McAllen Holiday Parade brings national celebrities, dazzling floats, and a brand-new Santa's Christmas Adventure giveaway this December 6!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #CivicPartnerships #CitizenPortal #McAllenHolidayParade #FamilyFun

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5 months ago

McAllen approves resolutions and ordinances to advance groundwater desalination project and buy water rights City leaders approved a $30 million financing closing to build production wells for a groundwater desalination project and authorized purchase of water rights; the Public Utility Board and City Commission approved related resolutions and ordinances during the joint meeting.

McAllen is making waves with a groundbreaking $30 million investment to build production wells and secure vital water rights for a future desalination project!

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#McAllenHidalgoCounty #TX #PublicPolicy #CitizenPortal #SustainableDevelopment #McAllenWater #WaterResources