Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González.
McAllen, TX – Mayor Javier Villalobos delivered an inspiring State of the City Address, highlighting McAllen’s continued growth, economic strength, and commitment to excellence. Under the theme “The McAllen Way”, the mayor outlined the city’s most significant achievements and ambitious plans for the future.
In front of city leaders, business professionals, and community members, Mayor Villalobos emphasized the limitless potential of McAllen, urging residents to dream big, invest in the community, and work together to achieve even greater success.
McAllen’s economy remains one of the strongest in Texas, driven by record-breaking sales and business expansion. The city reported an all-time high of $96.8 million in retail sales tax revenue, ranking it #2 in Texas for sales tax per capita among cities with over 100,000 residents.
“We are proving that McAllen is a prime destination for business and investment,” Villalobos said. “Our affordability and economic strength make us a model for other cities.”
McAllen was also recognized as the most affordable city in the U.S., with more than 1,069 commercial and 1,291 residential permits issued in 2024, signaling robust growth in real estate and business development.
One of the most significant highlights of the address was McAllen’s recognition as the safest city in Texas, reporting its lowest crime rate in 37 years. Mayor Villalobos attributed this success to strategic investments in law enforcement, first responders, and traffic safety initiatives.
“Our commitment to safety is unwavering,” he stated. “We continue to invest in cutting-edge technology and community policing efforts to ensure that McAllen remains a secure and welcoming city for all.”
McAllen is making major strides in urban development and sustainability. Its $652 million budget is dedicated to 180+ capital improvement projects, which focus on roads, drainage, and water diversification. These investments ensure the city’s continued sustainable growth.
The mayor also praised the city’s environmental initiatives, including the Keep McAllen Beautiful campaign, which mobilized 4,000+ volunteers to clean up more than 554 tons of trash and transform over 230 standpipes into public art installations.
“We are building a city that is not just thriving economically but also sustainable and beautiful,” Villalobos said.
McAllen is positioning itself as a hub for education and workforce development, with major investments in higher education and job training programs. Key initiatives include:
- UTRGV & STC partnerships that prepare students for careers in healthcare, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI).
- The new $49 million Texas A&M Nursing Education & Research Building will enhance medical training and research in McAllen.
- AI and manufacturing courses at STC, developed in partnership with Intel, to equip students with next-generation skills.
“These investments are about preparing McAllen’s youth for the jobs of tomorrow,” the mayor said.
McAllen remains a top destination for tourism and international business. Significant events like the McAllen Holiday Parade and South Pole Festival attract over 340,000 visitors and contribute $100 million+ in hospitality revenue.
Additionally, the McAllen International Airport experienced a 29% increase in passengers, adding new nonstop flights to Austin, Mexico City, Cancun, and Tampa.
The city also strengthened international partnerships with Mexico and European nations, signing trade agreements and fostering cross-border business collaborations.
“We are connecting McAllen to the world, bringing opportunities that benefit our local businesses and residents alike,” Villalobos said.
Looking ahead, Mayor Villalobos reaffirmed his vision for McAllen’s limitless future, emphasizing continued investment in:
- Green spaces, including a 20-acre campground and a state-of-the-art Center for Urban Ecology.
- Fiscal responsibility, ensuring the city reduces taxes while expanding services.
- Sustainable development, balancing growth with environmental stewardship.
As he closed his address, Villalobos left the audience with a strong message:
“If we can, we will. That’s the McAllen Way!”
McAllen is poised to reach even greater heights in the future with innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence.
For a detailed breakdown of Mayor Villalobos’s full address, read the exclusive feature in Texas Border Business.
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