Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessSouth Texas builders say immigration enforcement is slowing construction
Construction in the Rio Grande Valley is facing significant delays and increased costs due to immigration enforcement, according to the South Texas Builders Association. Builders report a labor shortage that has led to project timelines extending from four months to nearly a year, causing home prices to rise by $10,000 to $20,000. Some builders have experienced profit drops of up to 50% as they complete fewer homes than in previous years. The association is advocating for work permits for construction workers and plans to present a petition to congressional leaders during the upcoming 'Rally in the Valley' event, highlighting the impact of current immigration policies on local construction.
BusinessMission breaks ground on $50M manufacturing facility
Mission has officially begun construction on a $50 million aluminum recycling and manufacturing facility, the largest private investment in the city's history. Zerluma, the company behind the project, is building a 98,000-square-foot facility near the local hike and bike trails. This investment is expected to generate around 70 permanent jobs and between 250 to 300 construction jobs over the next two to three years. The Mission Economic Development Corporation anticipates that the facility will contribute $120 million to the local economy. The project will also focus on hiring local workers, with potential tax incentives being discussed.
BusinessDevelopment leaders break ground on aluminum recycling plant in Mission
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- The city of Mission is one step closer to making history by bringing one of the largest private investments in the area. City and development leaders gathered in Mission on Tuesday to celebrate the official start of construction on the $50 million aluminum recycling plant. Zerluma, an aluminum recycling company, is
BusinessMeta and BlackRock Launch El Paso Data Center Venture Expected to Create More Than 4,300 Jobs
Meta Platforms Inc. and BlackRock Inc. have announced a partnership to develop a data center campus in El Paso, Texas, aimed at bolstering Meta's artificial intelligence initiatives. The construction, which is already underway, will provide 1 gigawatt of computing capacity and is expected to create over 4,300 jobs, including 300 permanent positions. Meta is investing more than $10 billion in the project, with BlackRock managing 80% of the venture. Additionally, the initiative includes workforce development programs and a $500,000 grant for STEM education in El Paso schools. The total development cost is projected at around $14 billion.
BusinessTexas imports of Venezuelan oil soar as war chokes off Middle East supply
Imports of Venezuelan oil to Texas have significantly increased as Middle Eastern supplies have dwindled due to the ongoing Iran war. Since the U.S. took control of Venezuela's oil industry, imports rose from about 110,000 barrels per day in January to 575,000 barrels per day in June, marking the highest levels since 2018. Texas refineries have received 43% of these imports, with Louisiana receiving 39%. Analysts suggest that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has created a demand for Venezuelan oil. However, production levels are expected to stabilize around 1.15 million barrels per day by 2027, requiring substantial investment for recovery.
BusinessTexa multibillion-dollar sales tax exemption for data centers is growing, while audits lag
Texas is facing an increasing multibillion-dollar loss in sales tax revenue due to exemptions granted to data centers, with the Comptroller's Office indicating limited compliance data. Out of 138 certified data centers, only 20 have been audited, revealing that six were not meeting the exemption requirements. The state anticipates a $3.2 billion loss over the next two years, a figure likely underestimated due to the rapid growth of new data centers. Lawmakers are considering reforms or a repeal of the tax exemption amid concerns about its escalating costs and the impact on local communities.
BusinessAutomotive Cluster Connects Companies, Universities and Government to Generate Business
The San Luis Potosí Automotive Cluster is enhancing collaboration among manufacturers, suppliers, universities, and government agencies to boost business opportunities in the region. During a recent meeting hosted by the Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) in McAllen, cluster director Luis Alberto González highlighted the importance of training and identifying industry needs. Established in 2015, the cluster has grown from seven to over 100 participating companies, including major players like BMW and General Motors. The organization focuses on human resources, purchasing, supply chains, and academic collaboration, while also engaging with Mexico's National Network of Automotive Clusters.
BusinessConsumer Reports: Home warranty warning
Consumer Reports warns that home warranties may not provide the protection homeowners expect. While these plans can help cover repair costs for appliances and major home systems, they often contain exclusions that can lead to denied claims. Issues such as poor maintenance or preexisting problems can affect coverage. Homeowners should check if their appliances are already covered by the manufacturer or builder before purchasing a warranty. Additionally, be cautious of scams that send misleading letters about warranty expirations. Instead of a warranty, consider self-insuring by saving money for future repairs.
Business'Maybe cut some beef prices': Mexican cattle imports return after two-year pause
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The United States is preparing to reopen its U.S-Mexico border to Mexican cattle imports after a two-year suspension linked to concerns over New World screwworm. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says livestock imports will resume first through Arizona on August 24, followed by New Mexico. Texas ports will remain closed for
BusinessBPUB CEO Elected to Serve as TPPA President-Elect for FY 2026-27
Marilyn D. Gilbert, General Manager and CEO of the Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB), has been elected as the president-elect of the Texas Public Power Association (TPPA) for the fiscal year 2026-27. Currently serving as vice president, Gilbert will lead the association that represents 72 municipal electric utilities in Texas. She expressed her honor in taking on this role, emphasizing the importance of contributing to discussions that impact public power. TPPA Executive Director Taylor Kilroy praised Gilbert's leadership and commitment to public service, highlighting her influence and the benefits her election brings to BPUB and the Brownsville community.
BusinessT-Mobile Responds to Reports of Service Outages: 'We Are Working on It'
In response to numerous reports of service outages, T-Mobile stated on Monday that they are actively working to quickly resolve the issues causing the problem. 'We are actively addressing reports of technical issues affecting some customers, and resolving these service incidents is our top priority,' said the telecommunications giant and mobile network operator. 'We understand how important it is to stay connected, and we are dedicating all available resources to resolve this situation as soon as possible.' According to user indicators on the DownDetector platform, a massive service outage on Monday generated over 80,000 reports of signal failures, SOS mode, and data issues.
BusinessTexas Ag Commissioner Praises Cattle Import Reopening, Warns Screwworm Fight Isn’t Over
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has welcomed the limited resumption of cattle imports from Mexico, emphasizing its importance for ranchers and consumers. However, he remains concerned about the ongoing impact of the New World screwworm on the U.S. cattle industry. Miller criticized the USDA's response to the screwworm threat, stating it has been insufficient and reactive rather than proactive. He highlighted the need for a stronger commitment to eradication efforts to protect American livestock and prevent future disruptions. The recent binational summit aimed to enhance cooperation in safeguarding animal health and agricultural trade.
BusinessWorkforce Solutions Jobs Update, 7-27-26
Texas Workforce Solutions is hosting a U.S. Border Patrol information session on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 9 AM to 12 PM at their South McAllen office located at 2101 S. 2nd St., McAllen, TX 78503. Additionally, a hiring event for Spectrum will take place on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 10 AM to 4 PM at 1300 E. Maco Dr., Pharr, TX 78577. Job seekers can find these and other opportunities at www.workintexas.com.
BusinessTax-Free Weekend in Texas: Clothing and School Supplies
TEXAS – If you've started your shopping list for school supplies for your children and also want to buy them clothes before school starts, then you need to read this note to save money. From Friday, August 7 to Sunday, August 9, 2026, the state will hold a tax-free weekend as part of the back-to-school initiative. During this event, shoppers will not have to pay sales tax on items priced under $100, which translates to an estimated savings of $8 on that amount. In addition to school supplies, a variety of items are included, such as diapers, work uniforms, leather goods, and sportswear. You can click here to find the list of qualifying clothing, shoes, and other items (those marked with the letter E at the end are exempt). This link provides the list of school supplies that qualify for the exemption. The exemption applies to purchases made in stores or online, but if you have questions about this initiative or qualifying items, you can call the Comptroller's office for free, in Spanish, at 800-252-7875.
BusinessElectric-Vehicle Production Could Create New Cross-Border Supplier Opportunities
Adam Gonzalez, CEO of the Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP), emphasized the potential of Rio South Texas as a binational manufacturing hub during a recent meeting in McAllen. The focus was on the integration of supply chains and investment opportunities, particularly in light of BMW's plans to start electric vehicle production at its San Luis Potosí plant by 2027. This development is part of Mexico's evolving automotive industry, which also includes General Motors' operations. San Luis Potosí ranks as Mexico's fifth-largest vehicle producer, with over 250 suppliers contributing to an annual output of $8.5 billion in auto parts.
BusinessRio South Texas Region Stakeholders Promote Ports, Bridges, Rail and Airports to Mexican Industry
During a meeting on June 11, 2026, the Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) showcased the Rio South Texas region as a vital binational transportation corridor to representatives from the San Luis Potosí automotive industry. The region includes 19 international trade bridges, three seaports, and seven international airports, with a total annual trade operation valued at $15 billion. The Port of Brownsville alone has an economic impact exceeding $3 billion. COSTEP highlighted the potential for logistics and warehousing, emphasizing the region's strategic importance under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. SpaceX's Starbase also contributes an economic impact of $900 million.
BusinessFriend-Shoring Emerges as a New Approach to Cross-Border Business
During a recent business meeting in McAllen, Texas, Ricardo Pérez Castillo of Indutérmica introduced the concept of 'friend-shoring' as a relationship-driven approach to cross-border business. This term was presented at a gathering involving Mexican automotive companies and local economic development officials from the Rio South Texas region. Pérez Castillo emphasized that personal relationships, alongside infrastructure, play a crucial role in investment decisions. The meeting, hosted by COSTEP, aimed to foster connections between San Luis Potosí and the Rio South Texas area, highlighting the region's advantages for business relocation and development.
BusinessCensus data shows Hidalgo County poverty rate drops by four percent
Hidalgo County's poverty rate has decreased to 24.2% in 2024, down from 28.8% in 2021, reflecting a drop of over four percentage points in three years. County Judge Richard Cortez emphasized that while progress is being made, there is still much work ahead. Factors contributing to this decline include the creation of more jobs and increased wages. Cortez noted the importance of agencies like the Community Service Agency and VIDA in supporting those in need. However, challenges such as transportation and rising living costs continue to pose significant obstacles for the community.
BusinessIf You Live Paycheck to Paycheck, These Tips Can Help You Make Your Money Go Further
Inflation has forced many to rethink their finances. AARP has compiled a list of 99 tips to help people maximize their money. Among the advice shared by Gilberto Cabrera, AARP spokesperson, is the use of artificial intelligence. 'When you're planning your meals, you can go to your favorite AI search engine and ask it to fill out a whole week with budget-friendly dinner or lunch menus for your family, and it will design it according to your budget.' Other grocery shopping tips from the organization include: Challenge yourself to spend less. Once or twice a year, take inventory of your pantry. Create recipes with what you already have and plan to spend no more than $20 a week on what you need. Use cash for groceries. One way to stay within your budget is to go out with a fixed amount of cash and avoid using your credit cards. Look for manager's specials. Fresh foods nearing their sell-by date often receive discounts of up to 70%. Use them to prepare a last-minute meal or freeze them for later. Learn when a deal is truly worth it. Keep a price list of frequently purchased items at your grocery store on your phone or in a notebook. This way, you can compare current prices with what you usually pay. Stock up when it makes sense; avoid doing so when it's just a trick to attract buyers. The tips for saving money cover various aspects of daily family life, including health, food purchases, cars, computers, travel, and more. For the complete list, you can click here.