The U.S. housing market is showing signs of a shift, with the number of homes for sale rising while buyer demand slows. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
The U.S. housing market is showing signs of a shift, with the number of homes for sale rising while buyer demand slows. Analysts say this growing imbalance between supply and demand is beginning to change market conditions across many regions.
Recent housing data from Redfin and Zillow indicates that active listings have been rising in many markets, while buyer activity has cooled compared with previous years. This trend reflects an adjustment following the surge in demand seen during the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Higher borrowing costs are a key factor. The Federal Reserve raised interest rates to address inflation, which has pushed mortgage rates higher and reduced affordability for many prospective buyers. As a result, fewer people are entering the market, or they are delaying purchases.
At the same time, more homeowners are listing properties, contributing to increased inventory. According to the National Association of Realtors, housing market conditions are strongly influenced by the balance between supply and demand, and rising inventory typically eases price pressure and shifts negotiating power.
These changes are affecting how homes are bought and sold. With more options available, buyers may face less competition and have greater negotiating power. Sellers, meanwhile, may need to adjust pricing expectations or allow more time for transactions to close.
While conditions vary by location, the overall trend points to a market that is becoming less competitive for buyers and more challenging for sellers, reflecting a gradual rebalancing after several years of tight housing supply.
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. speaks on the proposed Port of Brownsville refinery, expressing support for its economic potential while opposing tax incentives and calling for transparency, environmental protection, and public accountability. Image by Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business.
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo Gonzalez / Texas Border Business
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. said he supports a proposed refinery at the Port of Brownsville, describing it as a potential source of jobs and economic growth, while urging careful planning, transparency, and environmental protection as the project moves forward.
“I took my time to digest this before making a statement, because we need to pause for a moment and truly analyze what may be about to happen in Cameron County,” Treviño said. “Let me be clear. I am in favor of this. This could be a good thing for Cameron County and could bring significant investment and opportunity to our region.”
The proposed refinery, described as the first new U.S. refinery in nearly 50 years, could generate thousands of construction and permanent jobs if completed. Treviño said the scale of the development could significantly change the region. “If developments like this move forward as expected, Cameron County is on the path to becoming a major metropolitan area, much like Houston, Dallas, or San Antonio,” he said, noting that growth could increase housing demand, infrastructure needs, and property taxes.
Treviño emphasized that environmental concerns must remain a priority. “We must also be mindful of the environmental impact that a project of this scale could have on our region,” he said. “We must remain vigilant in protecting our land, our air, and our water, and ensure our community is safeguarded from any potential hazards.”
He also raised concerns about how the project was communicated to the public. “If this project has truly been in the works for many years, it is fair for the citizens of Cameron County to ask why the community is only now hearing about it in such a sudden way,” Treviño said. He added that residents “deserve to be informed and engaged in conversations that will shape the future of our region,” and pointed to shifting estimates about the project’s scale, saying “people deserve clear and honest answers.”
Treviño said he does not support tax incentives for the refinery. “And let me be clear on one more thing: I will not support tax incentives for this project,” he said. “Since this project has been announced and is supposedly coming to the Port of Brownsville, and we are no longer competing with any other area for this project, it should stand on its own, without asking taxpayers to subsidize it.”
He concluded by stressing that projects of this size result from long-term collaboration. “This is also not the work of any one person,” Treviño said. “Progress of this magnitude is always the result of years of effort by many, from local leaders and institutions to state and federal partners.” He added that the opportunity requires responsible planning and public involvement, calling it “a historic moment for Cameron County” that must be approached with transparency and community engagement.
Governor Greg Abbott delivered remarks on the creation of the new Texas Jobs Council, which will strengthen Texas’ workforce development initiatives and ensure Texans are prepared to fill the state’s growing number of high-demand jobs. Photo: Office of the Governor
Texas Border Business
DALLAS – Governor Greg Abbott delivered remarks on the creation of the new Texas Jobs Council, which will strengthen Texas’ workforce development initiatives and ensure Texans are prepared to fill the state’s growing number of high-demand jobs.
“Here in Texas, we literally are building and manufacturing the future of the entire world,” said Governor Abbott. “For us to maintain that dominance, business and labor are working together to meet the high demand for high-skilled labor. We stand united on all fronts of the business sector to keep Texas number one for business, number one for jobs, and number one for workforce training.”
Governor Abbott meeting with officials in Dallas. Photo: Office of The Governor
“This creation of the new council needs to send a clear message to Texans about the Governor’s strong commitment to expanding economic opportunity for everyone through workforce training and development,” said Council Co-Chair and Teamsters Southern Region Vice President Brent Taylor. “The Texas Jobs Council will play an important role in supporting future businesses and developments by ensuring Texas has the skilled workforce ready to meet the needs of our state’s diverse and growing industries. We look forward to working with Governor Abbott to help Texans achieve greater economic security for their families.”
“TAB is honored to help lead the Governor’s Texas Jobs Council,” said Council Co-Chair and Texas Association of Business (TAB) Interim President Megan Mauro. “As our state continues to experience unprecedented economic growth and create new jobs, state leaders and employers have a responsibility to work together and ensure our workforce has the skills and training needed to compete in the 21st century economy. We are deeply grateful to Governor Abbott for kickstarting this important initiative and look forward to continuing our critical stakeholder engagement efforts to keep Texas the best state in the nation for employers and employees.”
In addition to speaking on the mission of the Texas Jobs Council, Governor Abbott touted the economic success that the state of Texas has already achieved. Those achievements include Texas being named the number one state in America for the most new jobs, number one for business expansion, and the number one business climate in the United States.
The Governor was joined by Council Co-Chair and TAB Interim President Megan Mauro, Council Co-Chair and Teamsters Southern Region Vice President Brent Taylor, and other business and labor leaders.
Earlier this week, Governor Abbott launched the Texas Jobs Council and hosted its inaugural meeting at the Governor’s Mansion. The Council will deliver a final report in November 2026 outlining recommended executive actions and legislative proposals to strengthen Texas’ workforce development system.
Buckets containing 107.71 pounds of methamphetamine seized by CBP officers at Juarez-Lincoln Bridge. USCBP image
Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Laredo Port of Entry seized methamphetamine valued at more than $990,000 inside plastic buckets.
“The discovery of methamphetamine concealed within buckets highlights the fine detection tactics and attention to detail our officers employ every day,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “CBP’s unwavering commitment to enforcing the law and protecting our communities ensures that dangerous narcotics are kept out of our country.”
The seizure occurred on Monday, March 16 at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge when a CBP officer referred a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado for secondary inspection. Following a canine and nonintrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered two buckets labeled as waterproofing acrylic containing a total of 107.71 pounds of suspected methamphetamine.
The narcotics have a total street value of $990,489.
CBP officers seized the narcotics. Homeland Security Investigations special agents are investigating the seizure.
Dr. Carlos L. Margo. Image by Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
A workforce initiative is launching in the Rio Grande Valley amid water scarcity and labor shortages that are creating growing challenges for local communities. The information comes from an interview with Carlos L. Margo, Ed.D., Dean of the Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships Technology Campus at South Texas College. Organizers say recent droughts and a shrinking water supply in the Rio Grande have increased the need to protect resources and safely treat water for reuse.
Utilities across South Texas are also facing a shortage of qualified workers. Dr. Margo said there is “a lack of people interested in working in the field and a need for higher skill levels for incoming and entry-level water and wastewater employees.” The problem is expected to worsen as many current workers near retirement, with estimates showing 30 to 50 percent of the U.S. water workforce could retire within the next decade.
Without immediate action, the region could face serious consequences. Dr. Margo said that without training programs for current and future workers, the Valley could be “in a perilous position where these services will fail to meet the water needs” of the area.
South Texas College has been selected to lead training for the Skills for Sustainability initiative. The college plans to develop new water and wastewater technician programs, an area it does not currently offer. Margo said the goal is to create “rigorous, sustainable programs that lead to certifications” in partnership with industry, workforce groups, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Training is expected to begin by fall 2026, pending approval.
The Center for Advanced Training and Apprenticeships will align training with industry needs by working directly with employers. Dr. Margo said input from plant managers and other professionals helps “negate any gaps between education and industry needs.”
The initiative will also build on South Texas College’s network of more than 150 employers. Margo said these partnerships guide curriculum development and expanded training opportunities, while existing resources help support new programs.
A key component is the planned Level 1 Wastewater Operator Training program, an entry-level certification regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. It will cover safety, mathematics, chemistry, and system operations, along with hands-on and internship training.
Practical experience is a major focus. Dr. Margo said, “90% of learning takes place while operating the heavy equipment,” underscoring the value of hands-on instruction. The program will also include training in heavy equipment used in water utilities and public works.
The initiative will train both current workers and new participants, including individuals from low-income communities. Margo said this approach addresses immediate workforce needs while building a long-term talent pipeline.
Initial funding will support the first group of trainees, but officials say the long-term benefit lies in creating scalable programs that continue beyond the grant. Communities in Hidalgo, Starr, Cameron, and Willacy counties are expected to benefit from a stronger, better-trained workforce.
Job placement is a central goal. Dr. Margo said all programs are designed to lead to employment or advancement, based on available job openings and career opportunities.
Organizers say success will depend on strengthening the workforce, improving water system reliability, and creating sustainable career pathways for Valley residents.
Box containing three live parrots intercepted by CBP officers at Brownsville Port of Entry. USCBP image
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers assigned to the Brownsville Port of Entry recently intercepted three live parrots hidden within a vehicle during an alleged wildlife smuggling attempt.
“Parrots are protected species and our frontline officers work diligently to prevent suspected attempts to smuggle them as part of the illegal animal trade,” said Port Director Tater Ortiz, Brownsville Port of Entry. “Exotic birds may carry various diseases not known to exist in the U.S. that could endanger native wildlife and U.S. agriculture, resulting in potential economic harm as well.”
The incident occurred on March 13 at Gateway International Bridge when CBP officers referred a 2007 GMC Yukon for secondary inspection. During the examination, CBP officers discovered three live parrots concealed within a box in the vehicle.
Homeland Security Investigations special agents initiated a criminal investigation into the seizure. CBP worked with partner agencies, including U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to safeguard the birds at a local zoo.
Parrots are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora regulated by FWS.
Smuggling birds into the United States is illegal and a serious criminal offense, involving penalties such as fines and imprisonment. CBP works with partner agencies like FWS and USDA to intercept and prosecute smugglers.
On the border at land, air, and sea-based ports of entry, including Laredo, CBP officers and agriculture specialists continue to fulfill CBP’s agriculture mission by preventing the introduction of harmful pests and diseases into the United States. Read more about CBP’s agriculture mission.
Packages containing 23.98 pounds of cocaine, 2.33 pounds of heroin seized by CBP officers at World Trade Bridge. USCBP image
Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the World Trade Bridge seized hard narcotics that totaled over $365,000.
“This significant seizure of cocaine and heroin underscores the dedication and vigilance of our officers at the World Trade Bridge,” said Port Director, Alberto Flores. “Our team remains committed to safeguarding our communities by preventing these dangerous narcotics from entering the United States. This accomplishment reflects the hard work and professionalism of our personnel and our ongoing efforts to protect the nation’s borders.
The seizure occurred on Wednesday, March 11, at the World Trade Bridge, when a CBP officer referred a 50-year-old Mexican male driving a 2020 Kenworth box truck for further inspection. Following a canine and nonintrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered a total of 10 packages containing 23.98 pounds of alleged cocaine and one package containing 2.33 pounds of alleged heroin within the truck.
The narcotics combined had a street value of $365,079.
The driver was arrested and the narcotics have been seized in connection with this case. Homeland Security Investigations special agents are investigating this seizure.
Six South Texas men have been charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
McALLEN, Texas – Six South Texas men have been charged with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.
All are charged in separate, but related and similar criminal complaints that detail an undercover chat operation from March 17-19. The six men allegedly believed they were communicating with a 16-year-old minor female via various online social media applications. The charges allege the conversations discussed engaging in sexual activities.
According to the complaints, the men enticed the “minor female” to meet up with them in order to have sex. The charges allege each man went to the arranged place at the discussed time and waited for the girl to arrive.
If convicted, all six face a mandatory minimum of 10 years up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance of Edinburg Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Alexis Garcia, Sarina S. DiPiazza and Alexa D. Parcell are prosecuting the cases which were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
This week, Governor Greg Abbott selected multiple qualified candidates to serve on behalf of Texans. Image for illustration purposes.
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – This week, Governor Greg Abbott selected multiple qualified candidates to serve on behalf of Texans.
District Attorney Of The 2nd Judicial District In Cherokee County – Governor Abbott appointed David Broom as District Attorney of the 2nd Judicial District in Cherokee County for a term set to expire December 31, 2026, or until his successor shall be duly elected and qualified.
Commercial Oyster Mariculture Advisory Board – Governor Abbott reappointed Eric Davis to the Commercial Oyster Mariculture Advisory Board for a term set to expire on February 1, 2031. Additionally, the Governor named Bradley “Brad” Lomax as chair of the board for a second term. The Board regulates the commercial oyster mariculture industry.
Podiatric Medical Examiners Advisory Board– Governor Abbott appointed Jose Ayala, D.P.M. and Rahul Patel and reappointed Joe E. Martin, Jr., D.P.M. to the Podiatric Medical Examiners Advisory Board for terms set to expire on February 1, 2031. The Advisory Board provides advice and recommendations to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation on technical matters relevant to the regulation of the practice of podiatry.
Public Safety Commission– Governor Abbott reappointed Nelda Luce Blair to the Public Safety Commission for a term set to expire on January 1, 2032. The Commission oversees the Texas Department of Public Safety, which enforces laws protecting public safety and provides for the prevention and detection of crime.
State Employee Charitable Campaign Policy Committee– Governor Abbott appointed Terry Zrubek to the State Employee Charitable Campaign Policy Committee for a term set to expire on September 1, 2027. The Committee helps develop rules and procedures for the State Employee Charitable Campaign and reviews the recommended campaign plan.
Texas Animal Health Commission– Governor Abbott appointed Ben Scholz and reappointed Jimmie Ruth Evans, Barret J. Klein, Joe Leathers, and Thomas “Tommy” Oates to the Texas Animal Health Commission for terms set to expire on September 6, 2031. The Commission works to protect and enhance the health of animal populations across the state.
Texas Board Of Professional Geoscientists – Governor Abbott appointed Tycom Wright to the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists for a term set to expire on February 1, 2029. The Board may set reasonable and necessary fees to be charged to applicants and license holders, including fees for application, examination, licensure, and renewal of a license. In addition, the Board shall base a fee for examination in a discipline of geoscience on the costs associated with preparing, administering, and grading that examination.
Texas Council For Developmental Disabilities– Governor Abbott appointed Dakota Marks to the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) for a term set to expire on February 1, 2031. The Committee recommends changes in disability policies and programs, supports a network of committees on people with disabilities, issues awards to promote greater awareness, and promotes compliance with disability-related laws.
Texas Holocaust, Genocide, And Antisemitism Advisory Committee – Governor Abbott appointed Larry Levine and LeElle Slifer and reappointed Sandra Hagee Parker to the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Committee for terms set to expire on February 1, 2031. The Commission conducts studies on anti-Semitism in the state, provides assistance to schools, and meets with appropriate representatives of public and private organizations to provide information and engage in various educational duties around the state.
Texas Jobs Council– Governor Abbott appointed and named Brent Taylor and Megan Mauro Co-Chairs of the Texas Jobs Council. The Governor also appointed Tony Bennett, Todd Staples, Hector Rivero, Scott Norman, Robert Mele, Robert Wayne, Alan Robb, Lacy Wolf, Mark Maher Jr, and Bryan Edwards to the Council. The Council is an advisory board to strengthen Texas’ workforce development initiatives and ensure Texans are prepared to fill the state’s growing number of high-demand jobs.
Texas Physician Assistant Board– Governor Abbott appointed Shane Bailey, M.D. and Jennifer Wegenhoft to the Texas Physician Assistant Board for terms set to expire on February 1, 2029. The Board issues physician assistant licenses to qualified individuals to practice in the state of Texas.
The program will take place on Saturday, March 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Main Library, located at 4001 N. 23rdSt. in McAllen. Courtesy image
Texas Border Business
McAllen Public Library (MPL) will host Go Out and Get Native!, a Teen Naturalist Club program designed to introduce teens and families to the native plants and wildlife of the Rio Grande Valley through hands on learning and outdoor exploration. The program will take place on Saturday, March 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Main Library, located at 4001 N. 23rdSt. in McAllen.
Presented in partnership with Quinta Mazatlán and local Girl Scouts councils, the program combines an educational presentation with guided and self-guided activities in the Main Library’s Tiny Forest. Participants will learn about common native plants, butterflies, and birds found in the Valley, followed by a BioBlitz style exploration using the iNaturalist app to observe and identify species on site.
In addition, members of MPL’s Teen Advisory Committee will lead a second project focused on long-term environmental education. Teen volunteers will install plant identification signs throughout the Tiny Forest, each featuring the plant’s common name, scientific name, and a brief informational description. This added component allows teens to leave a lasting contribution at the Library while helping visitors better understand the native landscape and the importance of conservation.
Courtesy image
“This program gives teens a chance to learn, explore, and also give something back to the community,” said Kate Horan, Library Director. “By assisting with the installation of plant identification signage, our Teen Advisory Committee is helping expand the Tiny Forest as a hands-on learning space for the community.”
Mayor Javier Villalobos emphasized the value of youth involvement in environmental stewardship. “Programs like the Teen Naturalist Club show how young people can take an active role in caring for our community and our natural surroundings,” Villalobos said. “It’s encouraging to see teens contributing to a shared space that benefits residents of all ages.”
City Manager Isaac J. Tawil noted the broader impact of partnerships behind the program. “This initiative reflects what’s possible when city departments, community organizations, and youth work together,” Tawil said. “The Library continues to be a place where education, civic engagement, and environmental awareness come together in meaningful ways.”
Go Out and Get Native! is free and open to the public and welcomes teens, families, and community members of all ages. Girl Scouts attending the program may also fulfill patch requirements.
For more information, please contact McAllen Public Library’s Teen Department at 956.681.3000 or visit www.mcallenlibrary.net.
