Press Release

Mar 14, 2020 

In regard to the COVID-19 threat, the City of Mercedes, Texas has been in many daily calls with Hidalgo County Health officials, as well as the Hidalgo County EMC Rick Saldana.  On Thursday, March 12^th, Mayor Hinojosa was in a Statewide Phone Conference with Governor Abbott & the governor’s lead health team to alert city and county leaders of the vital need to contain the virus so that the loss of life will be minimized.   A very proactive approach has been taken by the State of Texas where even today, Mayor Hinojosa, Management, and others participated in a second update by Governor Abbott.

Be advised that Governor Abbott today signed a Proclamation declaring “a state of disaster for all counties in Texas.”  This is clearly a significant decision for a dangerous health threat.

Mayor Hinojosa has also been on the phone with Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez to discuss COVID-19, especially as it pertains to the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show (RGVLS) event whose heavy schedule was to start today.  Their mutual sentiment was the paramount concern of community spread, and the employing safety measures to maximize the health and welfare of Mercedes citizens, and other patrons that would be attending the RGVLS events.

It has come to the attention of the City of Mercedes that Judge Cortez signed a letter this afternoon addressed to RGVLS General Manager Armando Correa of the County’s firm recommendations to contain COVID-19.  At this time, late Friday afternoon, the RGVLS expressed to County officials that they will proceed with the events as scheduled; activating numerous health safety measures to maximize protection against the virus.  However, should Judge Cortez execute an emergency order, then the RGVLS will willingly comply to shut down.

Mayor Hinojosa has expressed to Judge Cortez that Mercedes supports the County of Hidalgo’s cautious and firm stance on the COVID-19 threat, and respects their seasoned health officials in keeping all Valley cities, school districts, and other entities well-informed.

Although Mercedes typically would encourage attendance to the RGVLS, we cannot ignore the general counsel to avoid large gathering places if at all possible. Please use wisdom and caution to wash your hands frequently; always avoiding touching your faces.  Should there be someone who is ill and reflects typical symptoms, please see your private medical physician in a prompt manner.

As updates are provided, the City of Mercedes will do its best to keep its citizens updated. The City appreciates your understanding, well wishes, and prayers in the challenging days ahead.

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Sergio Zavala, City Manager, Mercedes, TX