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Pharr honors municipal judge Rudy Martinez; Fire Department deployed to California and city lists upcoming events
Summary
The Pharr City Commission recognized longtime municipal judge Raul “Rudy” Martinez for more than 20 years of service. Commissioners also heard a report that Pharr firefighters were deployed to California under interstate mutual aid, and staff reviewed a slate of upcoming community events.
The Pharr City Commission presented a plaque and commemorative paperweight Thursday recognizing Judge Raul “Rudy” Martinez for more than 20 years of service to the municipal court. Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez and commissioners joined members of Martinez’s family at the podium as Martinez addressed the commission.
The recognition came after Mayor Pro Tem Juray Gonzalez introduced the item and Judge Juan Villescaz spoke about Martinez’s career and character. “He served with integrity and dignity,” Villescaz said, noting Martinez’s empathy and willingness to cover court duties for colleagues. Martinez read prepared remarks thanking the commission, city staff and his family, and asked the Lord to bless the city’s leadership.
The commission also received a recap of recent city events and an operational report from the Fire Department. Mayor Pro Tem Juray Gonzalez, speaking for the Office of City Communications, said Pharr firefighters were deployed to California on Jan. 11 as part of the Texas Interstate Fire Mutual Aid System. Chief Fila Rodriguez was introduced as the Fire Department contact for questions about the deployment. Commission remarks during the report referenced a deployment period of roughly 20 days; Gonzalez noted the crew was about 10 days into deployment at the time of the report and expected to return toward the end of the month.
City staff also highlighted community events scheduled in late January and February. Juray Gonzalez described the “Healthier Texas” (formerly It’s Time Texas) event — a Zumba and food-distribution activity scheduled for Jan. 28 at Jones Box Park — and encouraged residents and regional participants to register and log activity through the program’s mobile app. The commission was told a “Walk with the Mayor” event is scheduled for Feb. 4 at PSJ Stadium, and the municipal court will host a free Valentine’s Day wedding event for couples who obtain a marriage license at least 72 hours in advance. Gonzalez identified Abel Molina as an events coordinator who was in the audience and confirmed Emil Molina would serve as the special events director for event logistics.
Several commissioners emphasized improving event layouts, signage and on-site amenities such as refreshments and decor for municipal events and for the city’s 116th birthday celebration. Commissioners asked staff to coordinate with Parks and Recreation on landscape and fountain maintenance for event sites.
No formal action was required for the recognition or the events recap, which were presented as informational items.
