Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessMAP: Where Rio Grande Valley shoppers spent the most money in May
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Comptroller's Office on Wednesday released sales tax allocation numbers for the month of May. The numbers show a snapshot of where consumer spending was the strongest across the Rio Grande Valley last month. The allocations are based on sales taxes collected by businesses and may help indicate present and
BusinessMyssie Cardenas-Barajas Appointed to National Association of REALTORS® Data Center Work Group
Myssie Cardenas-Barajas, a REALTOR® and advocate for property rights, has been appointed to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Data Center Work Group. This group, part of the Land Use, Property Rights and Environment Committee, addresses critical issues related to data centers, which are increasingly important due to the rise of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. Cardenas-Barajas, who has extensive experience in policy and leadership, aims to balance technological growth with sustainable practices. She emphasizes the need for communities, especially in South Texas, to have a voice in shaping policies that impact land use and resource management.
BusinessTexas Power: The Essential Fuel Behind the Global AI Explosion
Texas is becoming a key player in the global AI landscape due to its abundant land and electricity generation opportunities. Currently, about 140 data center projects are underway in the state, surpassing Virginia as the leading hub for AI infrastructure. These multi-billion-dollar facilities promise well-paying jobs and boost local economies without overwhelming existing infrastructure. They generate significant tax revenue, benefiting counties, cities, and school districts, while also enhancing local services. Despite some initial disruptions during construction, Texas aims for a balanced approach to support both economic growth and community needs.
BusinessGovernor Unveils Major Power Plant Expansions to Strengthen Houston Power Grid
Governor Greg Abbott announced the activation of 456 megawatts (MW) of new natural gas power generation units at NRG Energy’s TH Wharton Generating Station in Houston. These units, funded by the Texas Energy Fund (TxEF), can supply electricity to over 100,000 homes during peak demand. Abbott emphasized the importance of reliable power for Texas's growing economy. The Public Utility Commission of Texas, which oversees the TxEF, highlighted the project as a direct result of voter support for energy reliability. NRG Energy plans to enhance its capacity further with additional projects, aiming for over 1.5 gigawatts by 2028.
BusinessPharr EDC Launches Trade & Tech Initiative with “Restro Tech” Roundtable, June 22nd
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) is hosting a Trade & Tech Roundtable on June 22nd at the Pharr Global Business Hub. In collaboration with the UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center and Resto Tech, the event aims to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence and technology on the restaurant industry. Industry leaders will share insights on innovation and automation, highlighting Dairy Queen's success story in Pharr. The initiative seeks to connect businesses with resources and experts to enhance efficiency and profitability in a digital marketplace. Registration is encouraged for this informative session.
BusinessInflation heats up as Valley gas prices rise again
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As inflation rises to its highest level in three years, the Rio Grande Valley is seeing prices at the pump jump sharply. New data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released on Wednesday shows the Consumer Price Index (CPI) jumped 4.2% in May compared to last year. That is the highest
BusinessConsumer Reports: What to buy in June 2026
June is expected to be a lucrative month for shoppers, with early summer sales from Amazon and other retailers providing opportunities to save ahead of the holiday season. Consumer Reports highlights that it's a prime time for Father's Day gifts, with sales starting early in the month. Popular gift ideas include cordless drills and compatible smartwatches. This year, Amazon's Prime Day is anticipated to occur earlier than usual, featuring significant discounts on items like Ring doorbells and kitchen appliances. Additionally, early Fourth of July sales may emerge before the month ends, making June a great time for deals.
BusinessRGV Hispanic Chamber Welcomes New Corporate Partner
The RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has welcomed David and Veronica Reyna, owners of Riverside Building Materials, as a new Corporate Partner. The couple opened their store in 2023 with 10 employees, which has since grown to 35 due to their success and customer service. They have made significant contributions to the Starr County community, creating jobs through their ventures, including Reyna Homes, which focuses on affordable housing and home improvement projects. David Reyna, a community leader, was awarded the Large Business of the Year Award for 2025, highlighting the importance of supporting local initiatives.
BusinessRGV Partnership Leads Record Washington Delegation to Advance Regional Priorities and Economic Growth
Paco Sanchez, President and CEO of the RGV Partnership, led a record delegation of about 70 Rio Grande Valley leaders to Washington, D.C., from June 10 to June 12. This initiative aimed to promote regional priorities such as economic development, infrastructure, and workforce training. The delegation included representatives from various sectors, including government, education, and healthcare, and focused on presenting key issues like water resources and trade opportunities. Meetings with federal agencies and congressional representatives are planned, emphasizing the importance of a unified regional agenda to secure federal resources and investments for the Valley's growth.
BusinessThe latest at Starbase with LabPadre: June 8
STARBASE, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- On Monday and Tuesday, both a booster and a ship transport stand were rolled out of the Sanchez site and taken up Highway 4. These stands were leaving Starbase and heading to the Port of Brownsville to be loaded onto SpaceX's newest barge to transport to SpaceX's facilities in Florida. Down
BusinessRaudel Garza Says Workforce Development Is Key to Retaining Rio Grande Valley Talent
Raudel Garza, executive director of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC), said workforce development remains one of the most important components of economic growth during remarks at the launch of the second year of the Bank On INT paid internship program on June 5, 2026.
BusinessWater Bill of $60,000 Shocks Homeowner; City Claims It’s Based on Actual Consumption
A hidden water leak in a Fort Lauderdale home left a homeowner with a bill exceeding $60,000. The city in Florida insists that the meter accurately recorded the consumption, but the homeowner disputes the charges. Gisel Valdivia-Otaño, representing the homeowners, stated that since purchasing the property in 2024, the water bills had been normal, averaging around $114 to $120. However, this changed when she received an email on March 3 indicating an excessively high water usage. The bill then skyrocketed from $30,000 to over $60,000. According to the City of Fort Lauderdale, between January 24 and February 23, the meter recorded a leak of 1,140,000 gallons of water, equivalent to about 65 residential swimming pools. After discovering a broken underground pipe, which was repaired on March 27, Valdivia-Otaño submitted documentation to the city. Weeks later, she received a second bill for over $60,000, including the initial consumption and an additional 950,000 gallons recorded before the repair was completed. In total, the city billed for over 2 million gallons of water. Valdivia-Otaño contested the charges and received a credit of nearly $30,000, but she remained unsatisfied, stating she would continue to seek other options as she is still being charged over $30,000. The city explained that while they cannot erase the bill due to the consumed water, they can charge it at a lower rate to promote water conservation. Valdivia-Otaño insists she will not pay what she considers an unjust bill. Residents in Fort Lauderdale receiving unusually high water bills can request a review by calling 954-828-5150, and the city offers assistance and payment plans for those who qualify.
BusinessOchoa Joins Edinburg EDC and Banking Leaders to Launch Second Year of Bank On INT
Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa officially launched the second year of the Bank On INT paid internship program on June 5, 2026, during a ceremony at Edinburg City Council Chambers. This initiative, in collaboration with the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, UTRGV, and local banks, aims to enhance workforce development and create career opportunities in the financial sector for undergraduate students. Ochoa emphasized the importance of local career paths and encouraged students to build their futures in the Rio Grande Valley. The program connects students with practical banking experience while helping employers find and retain local talent.
BusinessNew state law will allow Valley food trucks to work across counties with one license
A new Texas law will simplify operations for food trucks starting July 1, requiring them to obtain a state license from the Texas Health Department instead of local permits. This change allows vendors to operate across city and county lines with a single license. Diana Baca, Program Manager for Hidalgo County Health and Human Services, emphasized the importance of applying promptly for the state license, as many may mistakenly believe local permits are sufficient. The cost of the license ranges from $300 to $1,800, depending on the type of vendor, and Hidalgo County is offering assistance to those with questions.
BusinessRestaurant named after beloved grandmother earns Top Performer sticker
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — To be a Food 4 Thought, ¡QUE RICO! Top Performer, a business must have a routine inspection report with zero health code violations. Like an inspector, the Food Patrol’s Derick Garcia and Jerry Salinas arrive without warning. This edition of Food 4 Thought spotlights plant-based restaurant Maria Cruz at 314 S.
BusinessGov. Greg Abbott expands state disaster declaration on screwworm infestation in South Texas
Governor Greg Abbott has expanded a statewide disaster declaration due to the New World screwworm infestation in Texas. This declaration allows for the mobilization of all state resources to combat the issue, particularly in Zavala County, where the first case was confirmed. The state is prioritizing the shipment of sterile flies to disrupt the screwworm's reproductive cycle. Concerns have been raised about communication from the USDA regarding the infestation, especially as cases have emerged in Mexico. Local ranchers are worried about the impact on livestock and wildlife, with potential economic damages estimated at $1.8 billion.
BusinessSouth Padre Island city officials approve of temporary AEP Texa mobile skid
South Padre Island has approved the installation of a temporary mobile substation from AEP Texas to ensure reliable power supply during infrastructure upgrades. The city council's decision comes in response to concerns from residents about potential power outages. The mobile skid will be located on Padre Boulevard and is expected to remain in place for approximately 18 months. This measure aims to minimize disruptions while the utility company enhances its services.
BusinessTexas Oil and Gas Upstream Jobs Increased by 400 in April
The Texas Workforce Commission reported a rise of 400 jobs in the upstream oil and gas sector for April 2026, marking two consecutive months of job growth since February. Total upstream employment reached 193,200, although this reflects a decline of 7,400 jobs, or 3.7%, compared to April 2025. The decrease in employment was linked to falling oil prices, but recent increases in prices and rig counts have led to a slight recovery. The Texas Oil & Gas Association emphasized the resilience of the workforce amid global uncertainties, aiming to maintain Texas's competitive edge in energy production.
BusinessBCIC’s Cori Peña Revisits Brownsville’s May 2026 Growth and Future Outlook
Cori Peña of the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) reflected on the impact of May 2026, highlighting the conclusion of RGV Startup Week, which featured events for women entrepreneurs and a youth civic innovation summit. The month also marked the opening of Blueprint Lab, the region's first advanced prototyping space, aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. BCIC launched the BIG LIFT Program to support small businesses with grants for storefront improvements. Additionally, Brownsville saw a 6% increase in out-of-market visitors, contributing to a vibrant local economy. Upcoming events include Pride Month celebrations, emphasizing community unity.