Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez issued a proclamation Friday declaring a local state of disaster and public health emergency related to coronavirus.
The declaration was made pursuant to the Texas Disaster Act of 1975. The Texas Disaster Act of 1975 appoints Mayor Hernandez as Emergency Management Director for the city and allows him to authorize the use of all available resources to assist in the city’s response to the public health emergency related to coronavirus.
Under the declaration, Mayor Hernandez can suspend rules or regulations that may inhibit prompt response to the threat of the virus and for its duration.
The declaration also says that the state of disaster and public emergency will continue for a period of no more than seven days. The City Council can renew the declaration.
City officials say they have been taking measures to mitigate the virus, including increasing community awareness providing information and methods for personal health and safety via social media and the city’s website.
The declaration says the city will not be shutting off water for non-payment during the duration of this crisis.
City officials urge and encourage all residents and families to remain vigilant, follow health and safety precautionary measures, and heed the advice of authorities to stay safe during the outbreak.
Read the declaration of disaster here
