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Killam Development Receives 2025 CoStar Impact Award 

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Killam Development Receives 2025 CoStar Impact Award 
Celebrating success through teamwork—Viridiana Suchil (Real Estate Coordinator), David Ramirez (Property Manager), and Susie Torres (Leasing Manager) of Killam Development were instrumental in securing the award-winning lease with GDB International. Their dedication and expertise earned Killam Development the 2025 CoStar Impact Award for “Lease of the Year” in McAllen, Texas. Courtesy image
Celebrating success through teamwork—Viridiana Suchil (Real Estate Coordinator), David Ramirez (Property Manager), and Susie Torres (Leasing Manager) of Killam Development were instrumental in securing the award-winning lease with GDB International. Their dedication and expertise earned Killam Development the 2025 CoStar Impact Award for “Lease of the Year” in McAllen, Texas. Courtesy image

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Mission-McAllen, Texas— Killam Development is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious 2025 CoStar Impact Award for “Lease of the Year” for its successful deal with GDB International, a leading recycling and sustainability solutions company based in New Brunswick, New Jersey, with warehouses and offices located around the U.S., China, Ghana and Mexico. 

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Winners—chosen for their growth, diversification, and ability to overcome unique challenges in their markets—were selected from a panel of more than 660 industry professionals drawn from each respective market.

The collaboration with Killam Development resulted in GDB International’s expansion into a 64,539-square-foot industrial warehouse located in the Sharyland Business Park, situated in Mission, Texas, within the Greater McAllen/Edinburg/Pharr market.

“Each year, the CoStar Impact Awards celebrate commercial real estate professionals that are introducing innovative and transformative projects and transactions in the industry,” said Lisa Ruggles, Senior Vice President, Global Operations at CoStar Group. “We received an incredible number of submissions this year and enlisted a diverse panel of judges across each market to identify the most impactful projects shaping the commercial real estate landscape. Congratulations to all the winners for their efforts to transform the industry and the communities they serve.”

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The Sharyland Business Park, strategically located in Mission, Texas, offers state-of-the-art facilities that align with GDB International’s commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. This expansion not only enhances GDB International’s operational capabilities but also contributes positively to the economic growth of the Rio Grande Valley.​

The Rio Grande Valley has experienced significant industrial growth in recent years. In 2023, McAllen reported $150.3 million in building permits, underscoring the region’s robust development. Additionally, the McAllen industrial market has seen a vacancy rate of 1.8% and a growing dynamic economic landscape, according to Q4 2023 CBRE Research.

The successful completion of this lease was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Killam Development’s team members:​ Susie Torres, Leasing Manager; David Ramirez, Property Manager; Viridiana Suchil, Real Estate Coordinator.

Their unwavering commitment and expertise were instrumental in nurturing the relationship with GDB International and bringing this deal to fruition.​

Susie Torres, Leasing Manager at Killam Development, expressed her enthusiasm:​ “We’re proud to provide the industrial space and support they need to grow in South Texas, and we look forward to supporting their goals and witnessing their positive impact on our community.”

Killam Development continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the commercial and industrial real estate landscape of the Rio Grande Valley. By attracting industry leaders like GDB International, Killam Development reinforces its commitment to driving economic development and promoting sustainable business practices in the region.

For more information about Killam Development’s latest projects, please visit www.killamdevelopment.com. 

About the CoStar Impact Awards: The CoStar Impact Awards recognize exemplary commercial real estate transactions and projects completed in 2024 that significantly influenced neighborhoods or submarkets across 129 major markets in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom.

The annual CoStar Impact Awards celebrates commercial real estate professionals who have brought leadership, innovation and professionalism to their markets, by spotlighting commendable transactions and projects.

About Killam Development: Killam Development is a premier real estate development company dedicated to creating vibrant communities in South Texas. With a legacy of excellence spanning over 100 years, The Killam Family and organization specialize in master-planned communities, commercial properties, and developments that prioritize quality and innovation. For additional information about Killam Development and our portfolio, visit www.killamdevelopment.com

Update On McAllen Public Utility’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project

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Update On McAllen Public Utility’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project
The McAllen Public Utility's Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project is nearing completion with over 45,000 smart meters installed and the full swap out expected by the end of 2025. Image: YouTube City of McAllen
The McAllen Public Utility’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project is nearing completion with over 45,000 smart meters installed and the full swap out expected by the end of 2025. Image: YouTube City of McAllen

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The McAllen Public Utility’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project is nearing completion with over 45,000 smart meters installed and the full swap out expected by the end of 2025. This initiative began in the fall of 2022 and is funded by an $18 million SWIFT Loan from the Texas Water Development Board. The project is set to deliver significant benefits for both McAllen Public Utility and its customers. These benefits include improved operational efficiency, enhanced system reliability, reduced water loss, streamlined meter reading and better demand forecasting. Customers will benefit by the use of a brand new portal which will give them greater control and transparency with their water system data. Things like early leak detection and more accurate billing will be tremendous benefits to rate payers and citizens.

Beat The Heat: Red Cross Safety Tips to Stay Cool This Summer

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Beat The Heat: Red Cross Safety Tips to Stay Cool This Summer
The American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, urges everyone to get ready for extreme heat Image for illustration purposes
The American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, urges everyone to get ready for extreme heat Image for illustration purposes

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AMERCICAN RED CROSS – 2024 was one of the hottest summers on record and experts predict that the summer of 2025 may be just as intense with hotter than normal temperatures. The American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, urges everyone to get ready for extreme heat by taking three actions:

1.     Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every hour, even if you don’t feel thirsty.Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.

2.     Stay cool by spending timein air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.

3.     Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it. Don’t forget to make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

“Heat can be deadly and it’s important to not overlook this invisible threat,” said Shawn Schulze, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region. “While anyone can be affected by extreme heat, it can be especially dangerous for older adults, the very young, pregnant women, outdoor workers and those with chronic conditions or disabilities. Here in the Texas Gulf Coast Region, you can help keep people safe by looking out for your loved ones and neighbors.”

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PLAN AHEAD To be ready for extreme heat, think about how you’ll stay cool.If you have air conditioning, make sure it’s working properly. If you don’t have air conditioning, think about where you’ll go to cool off, how you’ll get there and what you’ll take with you.

In an emergency it’s critical to act fast, so learn the signs of heat illness and what to do. Talk to your doctor about how you can stay healthy. Make sure you have supplies to keep medication cool and equipment charged, especially during a power outage. When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous. Visit here to learn what steps to take if the power goes out.

If you’re an athlete or you work outdoors, think about how you can alter your schedule to avoid the hottest times of the day. Consider how you’ll stay hydrated and find a cool place to take breaks. Don’t forget your furry friends and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

CHECK ON OTHERS Once you’re ready for the heat, connect with loved ones and neighbors to see if they need help.Make a list of who you’ll check on and help them make a plan so they know what do. Have them sign up for free emergency alerts from their local government.

Finally, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

Workforce Solutions Lower Rio Awarded $262K Grant to Support Financial Workforce Training

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Workforce Solutions Lower Rio Awarded $262K Grant to Support Financial Workforce Training
At a recent check signing event, TWC Commissioner Alberto Treviño III formally presented the grant, reinforcing the state’s investment in upskilling the regional workforce and supporting employer needs. Courtesy image
At a recent check signing event, TWC Commissioner Alberto Treviño III formally presented the grant, reinforcing the state’s investment in upskilling the regional workforce and supporting employer needs. Courtesy image

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Workforce Solutions Lower Rio has been awarded a $262,944 Skills Development Fund (SDF) grant from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) to provide customized, industry-specific training for employees of Lone Star National Bank across the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio.

At a recent check signing event, TWC Commissioner Alberto Treviño III formally presented the grant, reinforcing the state’s investment in upskilling the regional workforce and supporting employer needs.

This funding will support training in areas such as:
✔ Financial services operations
✔ Customer service excellence
✔ Cybersecurity awareness
✔ Regulatory compliance and more

We invite you to view the full press release, attached to this message, and help us spread the word about this impactful initiative that strengthens our local workforce and supports long-term economic growth.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support in highlighting the positive developments shaping our region.

McAllen Police Launch Operation Chill 2025

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McAllen Police Launch Operation Chill 2025
McAllen Police Department’s Operation Chill 2025 rewards kids for making positive choices with a free Slurpee® coupon, courtesy of 7-Eleven®. YouTube image
McAllen Police Department’s Operation Chill 2025 rewards kids for making positive choices with a free Slurpee® coupon, courtesy of 7-Eleven®. YouTube image

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McAllen Police Department’s Operation Chill 2025 rewards kids for making positive choices with a free Slurpee® coupon, courtesy of 7-Eleven®. This fun community program helps build trust between officers and youth while encouraging good behavior all summer long!

Cornyn Delivers Opening Statement at Biden Health Cover-Up Hearing

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Cornyn Delivers Opening Statement at Biden Health Cover-Up Hearing
“Last June, the American public saw with their own eyes what many knew to be true but would not dare to admit publicly – our sitting Commander-in-Chief was suffering from severe cognitive decline.” --Senator Cornyn
“Last June, the American public saw with their own eyes what many knew to be true but would not dare to admit publicly – our sitting Commander-in-Chief was suffering from severe cognitive decline.” –Senator Cornyn

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WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today delivered the following opening remarks during the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing he co-chaired, “Unfit to Serve: How the Biden Cover-Up Endangered America and Undermined the Constitution.” Excerpts are below, and video can be found here.

“Last June, the American public saw with their own eyes what many knew to be true but would not dare to admit publicly – our sitting Commander-in-Chief was suffering from severe cognitive decline.”

“As we now know, there was a conspiracy to hide the President’s true condition by his family, by his staff, by the media, and many elected officials.”

“This was a constitutional crisis bigger than President Biden, bigger than any single election, and one that cannot be absolved by the collective apology of the press and an election where the President’s party lost.”

“We need to know who was in charge during the last months of the Biden administration. Was it his wife, his chief of staff, nameless others? None of these people were elected by the American people, nor were they authorized by the Constitution and laws of the United States to carry out the duties of the President of the United States.”

“The 25th Amendment provides a roadmap for succession in instances of presidential incapacity. Section 4 gives the Vice President and a majority of the President’s Cabinet the authority to challenge the President’s ability to carry out the functions of his office, subject to a vote in Congress.” 

“But in this instance, the Vice President and the cabinet – the very ones authorized by the 25th Amendment to question the President’s capacity – they did nothing.” 

“Biden’s cabinet and the Vice President did not act in good faith. They acted in their political and personal self-interest.” 

“As a government, it is imperative that we have clear contingency plans when emergency strikes, and yes, it is an emergency when we have a sitting president who is unable to discharge the duties of that office.” 

“I will note that few of my Democratic colleagues are here today – thank you to Senator Welch from Vermont for being here – leaving us with no other option than to take the boycotting of this hearing as an admission of guilt for their role in this crisis.” 

“It is not an overstatement to say that the future of our country could one day hinge on how we choose to act or not act on this very issue.”

Paxton Demands the City of Austin Stop Contracting with Anti-Gun Companies in Violation of Texas Law

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Paxton Demands the City of Austin Stop Contracting with Anti-Gun Companies in Violation of Texas Law
Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a letter to the City of Austin warning that if the city fails to comply with Texas law forbidding governmental bodies from doing business with companies that discriminate against the firearms industry, he will pursue legal action to enforce the law. Image for illustration purposes
Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a letter to the City of Austin warning that if the city fails to comply with Texas law forbidding governmental bodies from doing business with companies that discriminate against the firearms industry, he will pursue legal action to enforce the law. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a letter to the City of Austin warning that if the city fails to comply with Texas law forbidding governmental bodies from doing business with companies that discriminate against the firearms industry, he will pursue legal action to enforce the law.

“In flagrant violation of its legal obligations, the City of Austin is sending millions of taxpayer dollars to companies that openly discriminate against the constitutionally protected firearms industry,” said Attorney General Paxton. “The City of Austin does not get to pick and choose which laws it will follow, and I will take every measure to enforce Texas law.”

Under Texas law, governmental entities are forbidden from contracting with companies that discriminate against the firearm and ammunition industries. However, the City of Austin has, in violation of this law, continued to use WEX Bank for its fleet card management. WEX Bank has a history of openly targeting firearms companies, debanking Defense Solutions Group, a supplier of high-end equipment to military and law enforcement entities, in 2021. Accordingly, the City of Austin’s multi-million dollar contracts with WEX Bank are unlawful and must be brought into compliance immediately or face legal action.

In the letter, Attorney General Paxton explains: “Banks and the regulatory regime took action during the Biden administration to cut off everyday Americans and their businesses from critical financial services because of their views. The concept of debanking is anti-American and stands in stark opposition to our rights to freedom of speech guaranteed by the Constitution. I stand with businesses that have been discriminated against because of their involvement in the firearms industry, just like Defense Solutions Group.”

To read the letter, click here and below:

Cartel Firearms Traffickers Sent to Federal Prison

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Cartel Firearms Traffickers Sent to Federal Prison
Two men have been sentenced for attempting to traffic firearms into Mexico on behalf of Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Image for illustration purposes
Two men have been sentenced for attempting to traffic firearms into Mexico on behalf of Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

LAREDO, Texas – Two men have been sentenced for attempting to traffic firearms into Mexico on behalf of Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).

Mexican national Jorge Alberto Morales-Calvo, 25, pleaded guilty Jan. 8, while Homero Arteaga Jr., 45, Mission, entered his plea Nov. 21, 2024.

U.S. District Judge John A. Kazen has now imposed a 41-month-term of imprisonment for Morales-Calvo. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his sentence. At the hearing, the court heard Morales-Calvo and Arteaga knew the firearms were going to be smuggled across the border and delivered to CJNG. In handing down the sentence, Judge Kazen noted that selling firearms to the cartel in Mexico leads to the destabilization of that country. Arteaga previously received 57 months in prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.

The investigation revealed Arteaga and Morales-Calvo were purchasing firearms on behalf of a broker for CJNG. On Sept. 18, 2024, they planned to purchase a Barrett .50 caliber rifle for $15,000 and a FN Herstal Belgium, 5.7 x 28 caliber pistol with a large capacity magazine for $850.

Arteaga and Morales-Calvo were given $16,000 in counterfeit U.S. currency to pay for the firearms.

When they arrived in Zapata to complete the transaction, Morales-Calvo stayed in the vehicle while Arteaga inspected the firearms. Arteaga then retrieved the fake U.S. currency and took possession of the firearms. Law enforcement immediately arrested Arteaga. Morales-Calvo attempted to flee but authorities stopped him before making it out of the parking lot.

“The Department of Justice is looking to hit the cartels from every angle and at every opportunity, which includes vigorously prosecuting not just the member of these terror groups, but those that enable them as well,” said Ganjei. “Those that arm or otherwise empower the cartels are going to the meet the full force of the federal criminal justice system.”

“Trafficking firearms on behalf of violent cartels is not just illegal, it fuels deadly cycle of violence on both sides of the border,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “This case demonstrates how seriously we take these crimes and how we are using every tool and resource available to disrupt the illegal flow of weapons, dismantle cartel networks, and protect our communities.” The success of this investigation reflects the critical partnerships between all levels of law enforcement working together to stop this violence at its source.”

Both men have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The ATF conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew P. Hakala-Finch prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

Updated June 18, 2025

Mexican National Sentenced to Six Years for Coordinating Drug Shipments into U.S.

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Mexican National Sentenced to Six Years for Coordinating Drug Shipments into U.S.
A 55-year-old Mexican national illegally residing in Raymondville has been ordered to prison for trafficking methamphetamine and heroin. Image for illustration purposes
A 55-year-old Mexican national illegally residing in Raymondville has been ordered to prison for trafficking methamphetamine and heroin. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 55-year-old Mexican national illegally residing in Raymondville has been ordered to prison for trafficking methamphetamine and heroin. 

Reynaldo Galvan-Rico pleaded guilty April 4, 2024.

U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered him to serve 72 months in federal prison. Galvan-Rico is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.

Beginning in March 2019, authorities identified Galvan-Rico as a coordinator in Mexico. The investigation revealed he acted as the point of contact for the drug supplier in Mexico and the drivers transporting narcotics in the United States.

Galvan-Rico was allowed to remain on bond and surrender at a later date.

“A major component of Operation Take Back America is the pursuit and punishment of drug traffickers,” said Ganjei. “Those that seek a quick buck by poisoning our communities through the drug trade should be looking over their shoulder because we are coming for them.”

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and FBI conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection.

OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt prosecuted the case.

Updated June 18, 2025

PSJA ISD to Open Third Building Blocks Academy

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PSJA ISD to Open Third Building Blocks Academy
PSJA Buckner Building Blocks Academy supports the district’s vision to align opportunities from cradle to college. Courtesy image
PSJA Buckner Building Blocks Academy supports the district’s vision to align opportunities from cradle to college. Courtesy image

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PHARR, Texas – Demonstrating continued commitment to early childhood education, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD is excited to announce the upcoming opening of PSJA Buckner Building Blocks Academy, the district’s third dedicated early learning campus, located at 1001 N. Fir St., Pharr, TX 78577. 

Set to open its doors this August 2025, PSJA Buckner Building Blocks Academy will join a growing network of specialized campuses at PSJA ISD designed exclusively for Pre-K 3 through Kindergarten students, following the success of the PSJA Sonia M. Sotomayor Building Blocks Academy (Pharr) and PSJA Alamo Building Blocks Academy (Alamo).

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The addition of this new academy reflects PSJA ISD’s long-term commitment to expanding access to high-quality early childhood education, which research shows plays a critical role in preparing children for lifelong success. According to the National Education Association, children who attend high-quality preschool programs demonstrate stronger language, cognitive, and social-emotional skills and are more likely to perform well academically and graduate from high school. 

“This investment is aligned with our PSJA vision of providing a seamless educational experience from cradle to college and career,” said PSJA Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias. “We recognize that the early years set the stage for a child’s future learning, and we are committed to ensuring our students begin with a strong foundation.” 

PSJA Buckner Building Blocks Academy joins PSJA Sonia M. Sotomayor Building Blocks Academy in Pharr and PSJA Alamo Building Blocks Academy in Alamo in providing specialized, age-appropriate instruction focused on play-based learning, exploration, and school readiness. These campuses are designed to support the unique developmental needs of young learners while fostering a love for learning from the start. 

In addition to these specialized campuses, PSJA ISD offers Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 programs at all elementary schools, providing a convenient option for families with multiple elementary-aged children who prefer to keep their young learners in one campus. 

“At PSJA Buckner Building Blocks Academy, we are dedicated to creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where every child can grow academically and socially,” said Principal Denise Garcia. “We are honored to welcome new families and help our students take their very first steps on a successful educational journey.” 

ENROLLMENT OPEN NOW 
Limited spots are available for Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 students. Children do not need to be potty trained, but they must be 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2025, to qualify. 

Families are encouraged to enroll now to secure a spot at this exciting new campus. For more information or to begin the enrollment process, visit www.psjaisd.us/buildingblocks or call 956-354-2510. 

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