PHARR, Texas – Following similar declarations of disaster by Governor Greg Abbott and President Donald J. Trump, Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., issued a proclamation declaring a local state of disaster and public health emergency related to COVID-19 (coronavirus) for the City of Pharr effective March 13, 2020.
This Declaration of Disaster was made pursuant to the Texas Disaster Act of 1975 and the Texas Government Code Section 418.108(a). The Texas Disaster Act of 1975 designates Mayor Hernandez as Emergency Management Director for the City of Pharr 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 COVID-19. By the declaration, Mayor Hernandez suspends rules or regulations that may inhibit or prevent prompt response to this threat for the duration of the incident. Further, the declaration activates the city’s emergency management plan.
City officials 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. City leaders ensure the public that the City’s Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Continuity of Government (COG) plans are actively reviewed and updated to ensure that critical government services remain uninterrupted during this crisis.
As one of the measures set in place to assist residents during this disaster, the City of Pharr 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 this disaster.
