Hidalgo County Commissioners Court mourns community leader Sabrina Walker Hernandez

The Hidalgo County Commissioner’s Court convened on August 19, 2025, addressing key issues impacting local infrastructure and community welfare. A significant focus of the meeting was on drainage improvements, a pressing concern for residents given the area's history of flooding.

Commissioners discussed recent testimony given in Austin regarding drainage projects aimed at flood mitigation. Commissioner Fuentes highlighted the county's ongoing efforts, noting that over $200 million has been invested in drainage projects since 2018. Despite these efforts, the county still faces an estimated $1 billion in needed improvements. The commissioners expressed hope that their recent discussions with state officials would lead to increased funding for these critical projects.

In addition to drainage issues, the court reviewed the annual tax collection report for the Hidalgo County Drainage District, which showed a slight increase in collections compared to the previous year. The total collected was approximately $65 million, maintaining a collection rate of around 94%. This revenue is vital for funding ongoing and future drainage projects.

The meeting also included the approval of several interlocal agreements, including one with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley for a new stadium area, which aims to enhance community engagement through pedestrian access and potential tailgating opportunities.

In a moment of reflection, the court paid tribute to the late Sabrina Walker Hernandez, a respected community leader who passed away recently. Her contributions to local organizations and her advocacy for youth and community service were recognized, with family members expressing gratitude for the honor.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners emphasized their commitment to addressing the community's needs, particularly in infrastructure and public service, ensuring that residents are supported and informed about ongoing developments.