Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza of Mission, Texas, has been elected President of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council (LRGVDC). This key regional planning organization supports the counties of Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy. Established in 1967 under Texas law, the LRGVDC was created to foster collaboration among local governments and guide strategic development efforts across South Texas.
In her new role, Mayor Garza will chair Council and Board of Directors meetings, oversee signing contracts and official documents, and carry out additional duties outlined by the Council’s bylaws. The LRGVDC’s Board plays a crucial role in shaping the Council’s direction through policy development, committee leadership, and long-range planning across vital areas affecting the region.
The LRGVDC’s work is structured around four central departments: Community & Economic Development, Health & Human Services, Public Safety, and Transportation. It also functions as the region’s Economic Development District, a designation given by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration. Through this framework, the Council implements programs to strengthen infrastructure, improve public safety, expand workforce development, and support long-term economic resilience.
The current Board of Directors is composed of leaders from across the region, including:
• President: Mayor Norma Sepulveda, City of Harlingen
• 1st Vice President: Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza, City of Mission
• 2nd Vice President: Judge Aurelio “Keeter” Guerra, Willacy County
• Secretary: Mayor John Cowen, Jr., City of Brownsville
• Treasurer: Mayor Ramiro Garza, City of Edinburg
Additional board members represent a range of municipalities and regional entities, ensuring diverse input and comprehensive representation in Council initiatives.
Mayor Garza’s appointment as president is expected to strengthen regional unity and advance efforts to address critical needs throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Her leadership builds on her commitment to public service, economic development, and cross-community partnership.
