Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
The City of Edinburg welcomed its newest council member on a momentous occasion held at City Hall. Gerardo “Gerry” Lozano was officially sworn in as Council Member Place 4 in a ceremony attended by city officials, community leaders, and family members.
Serving as master of ceremonies, Roxanne Lema opened the event by acknowledging the significance of the moment. “It is certainly an honor to serve as your MC for this very special occasion, the swearing in of our new Place 4 Council Member Gerardo ‘Gerry’ Lozano,” she said, prompting a round of applause from the full house in attendance.
City officials in attendance included Mayor Ramiro Garza, Jr., Mayor Pro Tem Jason De Leon, Councilmen Daniel “Dan” Diaz and David Salazar, and City Manager Mayra Ayala.
Councilman Dan Diaz delivered the invocation, calling the ceremony a “joyful occasion.” He prayed for guidance and unity, saying, “May Lozano lead with integrity, humility, and compassion. Grant him the strength to face challenges, the clarity to make wise decisions, and the courage to always put the needs of our residents first.”
Mayor Pro Tem Jason De Leon led the Pledge of Allegiance before Mayor Garza provided official welcome remarks. “Thank you so much for being here today on the swearing-in of our new Council Member Place 4, Gerry Lozano,” said Garza. “He shared with me the passion he has for the city and what he wants to do in terms of making our city better.”
Garza noted that Lozano is stepping into his role during the city’s budget cycle, saying, “You’re going to be put right to work very soon. There are some tough decisions we need to make, but in the end, it’s all worth it because it’s to make our city better.” The mayor also thanked Lozano’s family and supporters, calling public service “a family affair.”
The oath of office was administered by Judge Fernando Mancias, who offered advice to the incoming council member: “Listen with your heart. Always be humble. Focus on people and don’t worry about power.” He added, “If you do those three things, you’ll be okay.”
Following the swearing-in, Councilman Lozano addressed the audience with a message of gratitude and a commitment to serving the community. “I stand before you today with deep gratitude and an even deeper sense of responsibility,” he said. “It is truly an honor to be officially sworn in as your Edinburg City Council Member, Place 4.”
Lozano thanked God, his fiancée Sabrina, his family, his campaign team, and the voters. “To the voters of Edinburg: thank you for placing your trust in me. Whether you voted for me or not, I promise to serve every resident with fairness, transparency, and heart.”
He acknowledged former Councilman David White for his service and credited both campaigns for keeping the race focused on the issues. Lozano also praised city staff for organizing what he called a “memorable event.”
“As I begin this new chapter in service to our great city, I carry with me your hopes, concerns, and dreams,” he said. “Let us all be the change for a better future for Edinburg.”
The ceremony marked not only a new beginning for Councilman Lozano but also a reaffirmation of civic responsibility and public service for the City of Edinburg.
