Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
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.
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.
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.
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.
BusinessThey Want to Compensate Them: Neighbors of Azteca Stadium to Charge Over $125 for Parking
MEXICO CITY – Residents near Azteca Stadium in Mexico City are offering the QR code provided by the Coyoacán mayor's office to use their parking spaces on match days during the World Cup, with prices ranging from 800 to 2,200 pesos (over $125). "I have five spots on San León street, 2,200 pesos each per game if you're interested. I need you to send me a copy of your INE (official ID) and your car's registration, and I'll give you the code that the delegation provides. You pay me half to reserve and the other half on game day," says Leonardo during a tour conducted by EFE in the area surrounding the stadium. The decision to disable parking at the venue on game days has led residents of the Pedregal de Santa Úrsula neighborhood to seek financial gain due to the inconveniences they endured for months because of the renovation works at the historic stadium, which has hosted the World Cup three times. "It was a long time of 'you can't pass,' 'the street is closed.' Every time there are games at the stadium, it's a hassle, and with the World Cup, it became a nightmare trying to get home with the pretext of the construction, and I don't see anything different; at least now it leaves us something," adds Leonardo.
BusinessCrews make final preps to turn on CBS4/NBC23 new high-power antenna
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A new wave of television is coming to the Rio Grande Valley. Starting Friday, we will be the only local broadcaster with an over-the-air signal reaching all four counties across the 956. Our enhanced broadcast will reach from South Padre Island all the way to Roma, encompassing all of Hidalgo County.
BusinessTxDOT Hosting Event for Small Businesses, July 20th
The TxDOT Pharr District is organizing an event on July 20 aimed at small businesses seeking state highway construction contracts. This event, titled BOSS (Big Opportunities Start Small), will allow participants to network with TxDOT engineers, prime contractors, and other small business representatives. The event will be conducted in English, but interpreters will be available upon request. Small businesses interested in attending can register by contacting the TxDOT Civil Rights Division at 210-615-5954 or via email. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities can also be arranged if requested by July 13, 2026.
BusinessDSHS Opens Applications for Statewide Food Truck Licenses
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has launched applications for a new statewide license for mobile food vendors, including food trucks and pushcarts. This initiative follows the passage of HB 2844, which allows vendors to operate under a single license throughout Texas, eliminating the need for multiple local licenses. Starting July 1, all mobile food vendors must possess a DSHS license. Current vendors can continue operating if they have submitted a complete application. Inspections will be prioritized for new vendors without existing licenses. More details are available in the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide.
Business$411M Texas Energy Fund Loan North Texas Natural Gas Power Plant Announced
Governor Greg Abbott has announced a $411 million loan agreement from the Texas Energy Fund for a new 570 megawatt natural gas power plant to be constructed by Rayburn Electric Cooperative in Sherman, Texas. The facility is expected to start operations in 2028, contributing to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid. This project is part of the state's initiative to enhance power generation and reliability. The total estimated cost of the project is under $685 million, with the loan covering 60% at a 3% interest rate over 20 years. The Texas Energy Fund aims to secure dependable energy for Texas families and businesses.
BusinessSpaceX’s Proposed $55 Billion Terafab Project Moves Forward in Texas
On June 3, the Grimes County Commissioners Court approved a 4-1 vote for a reinvestment zone and tax abatement agreement for SpaceX's Terafab project, a semiconductor manufacturing facility near Gibbons Creek Reservoir. The project, which could involve an initial investment of $55 billion, aims to enhance domestic semiconductor production and create around 1,800 jobs. The facility is planned to be a multi-phase complex located about 20 miles east of Bryan-College Station. While the approval marks significant progress, further regulatory reviews and permits are still needed before construction can begin.
BusinessTSC President Calls for Collective Action on Water and Regional Growth
Dr. Jesús Roberto Rodríguez, President of Texas Southmost College, urged for regional collaboration to tackle water issues and promote economic growth during the RGV Connect Water Forum on April 15, 2026. He highlighted the importance of unity among public officials, business leaders, and educators to address water security in the Rio Grande Valley. Rodríguez emphasized the need for strategic planning and cooperation, stating that water is a vital resource for the region. He also noted the college's commitment to workforce development, celebrating its centennial and readiness to meet new economic challenges through education and partnerships.