Roma Lady Gladiator Freshman Girls Track Team 30-5A District Champions
Grulla Gators Joselyn Tamez and Ricky Solis Jr. earn spot in the THSCA Academic All-State Team
Congratulations to the Roma Lady Gladiator Freshman Girls Track Team on winning the 30-5A District Championship!! 4x100m relay: 1st place - Leonely Flores, Yulaika Palacios, Daniela Pomares, and Brianna Gonzalez. 100 Hurdles: 4th place - Valeria Martinez. 100M Dash: 1st place - Yulaika Palacios. 4x200m relay: 1st place - Leonely Flores, Brianna Gonzalez, Daniela Pomares, and Jocelyn Lopez. 300M Hurdles: 2nd place - Valeria Martinez. 200M dash: 1st place - Yulaika Palacios and 2nd place Brianna Gonzalez. 1600M Run: 1st place Galilea Molina. 4x400m Relay 2nd place - Leonely Flores, Daniela Pomares, Jocelyn Lopez, and Valeria Martinez. Discus: 1st place - Lylexie Ramirez and 2nd place - Bella Martinez. High Jump: 2nd place - Galilea Molina and 3rd place - Jocelyn Lopez. Long Jump: 5th place - Valeria Martinez and 6th place - Leonely Flores. Pole Vault: 2nd place - Daniela Pomares. Shotput: 2nd placeBella Martinez and 3rd place - Lylexie Ramirez. Triple Jump: 6th place - Valeria Martinez. Keep up the outstanding work ladies!!
Congratulations to Grulla Gators Joselyn Tamez (2nd Team) and Ricky Solis Jr. (Honorable Mention) for earning a spot in the prestigious THSCA Academic All-State Team for Wrestling. The RGCGISD community is extremely proud of your academic and athletic achievements.
Mighty Gladiators Boys Track Team 30-5A JV District Champions
M. Dash: Felix Gonzalez - 4th place. 200 M. Dash: Angel Rios - 5th place. 400 M. Dash: Santiago Gonzalez - 3rd place. 300 M. Hurdles: Santiago Martinez - 6th place. 1600 M. Dash: Ricardo Rodriguez - 1st place (District Champion). 4x100 M. Relay: (District Champions) 1st place - Jose Macias, Elijah Garza, Alexander Miranda, and Felix Gonzalez. 4x200 M. Relay: 2nd place - Jose Macias, Elijah Garza, Alexander Miranda, and Marcelo Sarabia. 4x400 M. Relay: 2nd place - Jose Macias, Sergio Barrera, Ruben Garcia, and Alexander Miranda. Freshmen Division: 400 M. Dash: Rome Rios 4th place. Discus: Carlos Mondragón - 4th place. High Jump: Saul Acosta - 3rd place. Congratulations Boys!!!
Rio Grande City takes steps toward downtown revitalization
The Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and Rio Grande City Main Street hosted a strategic workshop on Friday, March 21, 2025, to plan the renewal of downtown Rio Grande City.
“This workshop was a key step in revitalizing downtown,” said Ross Barrera, Rio Grande City EDC Executive Director. “By bringing together city officials, business leaders, and community members, we built a shared vision for future growth and investment.”
Held downtown, the group reviewed city ordinances, identified blighted areas, and heard from guest speakers with expertise in city management, community advocates, and real estate.
Speakers included City Manager Gilbert Millan, Assistant City Manager Sara Hernandez, retired veteran Sam Ramos, and real estate broker Hiram Diaz. They shared insights on opportunities and challenges for downtown and discussed ways to create a thriving business district while preserving the city’s character.
Attendees engaged in a panel discussion with the Rio Grande City Planning and Code Enforcement Department, where they had the opportunity to ask questions about zoning
regulations, building codes, and development processes.
This session helped clarify how businesses and property owners can contribute to renewal efforts.
The Rio Grande City EDC and Main Street program will continue working with stakeholders to refine and
implement strategies. Additional community engagement sessions are planned to ensure residents and business owners have a voice in shaping downtown’s future. For more information about the Rio Grande City EDC: www. rgcedc.com or call (956) 4873476.
In Loving Memory of Olga M. Perez
Misa de Primer Aniversario
Isidro Garza
Si tu me amas no llores mas por mi. Si conocieras el hermoso paraíso donde me encuentro. Si pudieras ver y sentir lo que yo siento y veo, tu jamas llorarías por mi. Piensa en mi en tus luchas diarias, piensa en esta maravillosa morada donde no existe la muerte y donde estoy junto a la fuente inagotable de la alegría y del amor. Si verdaderamente me amas no ¡Estoy en Paz y Feliz!
llores mas por mi ...
Se celebrara una misa En Memoria del Primer
Aniversario de Isidro Garza, Segundo Aniversario de Maria de Refugio Garza y Cumpleaños de Alberto Zurita el Miércoles 2 de Abril del 2025 a las 6:00 p.m. en la Iglesia Inmaculada Concepcion en Rio Grande City
Esposa Nellie de la Torre, Hijos y Nitos
Olga M. Perez (1955-2025) was a caring, ambitious, and faith-led woman, who always put the needs of others above her own. Born in McAllen, Texas to Maria Luisa Clarke and Ruben Molina, Olga was preceded in death by her father and sister, Melba M. Urdiales. She is survived by her mother, and her four brothers Ruben Molina Jr., Romero Molina, Roel Molina, and Roberto Molina, her husband Derico Perez Jr., daughter Desika Luisa Rocha, and her beloved dog, Q. Olga always saw the positive in all things, and above all, put her faith in God. She believed in the power of small acts of kindness.
Olga was a proud Rattler graduate of Rio Grande City High School Class of 1974. After graduation, she attended Texas A&I University in Kingsville, Texas where she obtained a bachelor’s and master’s in education.
Olga had a passion for teaching which led to a long and rewarding career in education. She faithfully served the Rio Grande City Consolidated Independent School District for 33 years. She first taught Physical Education while obtaining her master’s in education in the evenings. Her dedication to her own education and the education of others was unmatched, eventually leading to more prominent positions as a Counselor, Assistant Principal, and Principal at John & Olive Hinojosa Elementary School. Finally, she retired from RGCCISD as District Wide Administrative Assistant for Elementary Curriculum and Instruction.
During her retirement, Olga continued to educate through her writings and rhyming tales, eventually publishing four books: “Sitting on Cloud 9 at the 50-Yard Line,” “The Unstung Hero,” “Fright Under The Moonlight,” and “What if…?.” Olga sincerely believed that books not only capture children’s imagination, but also take center stage to worlds of adventure. While Olga may be gone, her words live on, always reminding us of the profound impact she had on those lucky enough to meet her.
Olga loved feathers and so movingly wrote, “We see some of our feathers — so lovely and so dear. When you find one in your path, know that I am near.”
The next time you see a feather, we will always remember you, Olga.
We deeply appreciate the kindness, support, and love you’ve shown us during this difficult time. It will always be remembered.
Thank You Molina ~ Perez Family
Looking for a creative way to celebrate the arrival of Spring? Join the Rio Grande City Public Library every Wednesday in April for their Spring-Themed Adult Craft Class! From 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Registration necessary. For more information call: 956-487-4389.
NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS
Date of Publication: April 2, 2025
City of Roma PO Box 947 Roma, Texas 78584 956-849-1411
On or about April 29, 2025 the City of Roma, Texas will submit a request to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) for the release of HOME RSP Reservation System funds under Title II of The Cranston Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended, to undertake a project known as City of Roma HOME Reservation Agreement No. 2024-0022 for the purpose of reconstruction or rehabilitation of single-family homes within corporate limits of the City of Roma, Texas. The estimated total project funding is $130,000 per home, with actual amounts determined by the project scope and eligibility. Specific addresses will be reviewed individually as part of site-specific environmental reviews.
The activities proposed are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project is on file at Roma City Hall, 201 W. Convent Blvd., Roma, Texas 78584 and may be examined or copied on weekdays from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the City of Roma, Mr. Alejandro Barrera, City Manager at P.O. Box 947, Roma, Texas 78584. All comments received by April 9, 2025, will be considered by the City of Roma prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
The City of Roma certifies to TDHCA that Alejandro Barrera, Certifying Officer in his capacity as City Manager, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. TDHCA’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City of Roma to use Program funds.
OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
TDHCA will accept objections to its release of funds and the RE’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City of Roma; (b) the City of Roma has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by TDHCA; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs at P.O. Box 13941, Austin, Texas 78711. Potential objectors should contact TDHCA to verify the actual last day of the objection period.
Alejandro Barrera, City Manager
Did you know? -- Pets are curious animals who want to explore their environments. That includes places around the house that they do not realize may cause them harm. According to the electric component manufacturer Sewell, electrical hazards exist inside the home that can compromise the health of pets. Exposed cords can attract pets’ attention, and they may gnaw or pull on wires causing shocks or even fires. Therefore, wires can be tied together and placed inside of covers or PVC pipe to minimize their allure. Pets may become curious about electrical sockets and poke their noses and paws into them. Using electrical socket covers can help prevent this danger. Any exposed wires in a home are accidents waiting to happen to pets and people alike. Electrical issues should be repaired as soon as possible. Electrocution is a very real risk for pets.
AVISO DE INTENCIÓN DE SOLICITAR LA LIBERACIÓN DE FONDOS
Fecha de publicación: 2 de abril de 2025
Ciudad de Roma P.O. Box 947 Roma, Texas 78584 (956) 849-1411
En o después del 29 de abril de 2025, la Ciudad de Roma, Texas, presentará una solicitud al Departamento de Vivienda y Asuntos Comunitarios de Texas (TDHCA) para la liberación de fondos del Sistema de Reservas del Programa HOME (HOME RSP), conforme al Título II de la Ley Nacional de Vivienda Asequible Cranston-Gonzalez de 1990, enmendada, para llevar a cabo un proyecto conocido como Acuerdo de Reserva HOME de la Ciudad de Roma No. 2024-0022, con el propósito de la reconstrucción o rehabilitación de viviendas unifamiliares dentro de los límites corporativos de la Ciudad de Roma, Texas. La financiación estimada del proyecto es de $130,000 por vivienda, y el monto final dependerá del alcance del proyecto y la elegibilidad del hogar. Las direcciones específicas serán evaluadas individualmente mediante revisiones ambientales específicas del sitio.
Las actividades propuestas están categóricamente excluidas según las regulaciones de HUD en 24 CFR Parte 58 de los requisitos de la Ley Nacional de Política Ambiental (NEPA). El Registro de Revisión Ambiental (ERR, por sus siglas en inglés), que documenta las determinaciones ambientales para este proyecto, se encuentra disponible en el Ayuntamiento de Roma, ubicado en 201 W. Convent Blvd., Roma, Texas 78584, y puede ser consultado o copiado de lunes a viernes entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m.
COMENTARIOS PÚBLICOS
Cualquier persona, grupo o agencia puede enviar comentarios escritos sobre el ERR a la Ciudad de Roma, a la atención del Sr. Alejandro Barrera, Administrador de la Ciudad, al P.O. Box 947, Roma, Texas 78584. Todos los comentarios recibidos antes del 9 de abril de 2025 serán considerados por la Ciudad de Roma antes de autorizar la presentación de la solicitud de liberación de fondos.
CERTIFICACIÓN AMBIENTAL
La Ciudad de Roma certifica al TDHCA que Alejandro Barrera, en su calidad de funcionario Certificante y Administrador de la Ciudad, acepta la jurisdicción de los Tribunales Federales en caso de que se presente una acción legal para hacer cumplir las responsabilidades relacionadas con el proceso de revisión ambiental, y que dichas responsabilidades se han cumplido. La aprobación de esta certificación por parte del TDHCA satisface sus responsabilidades conforme a la NEPA y otras leyes y autoridades relacionadas, y permite a la Ciudad de Roma utilizar los fondos del Programa.
OBJECIONES
A LA LIBERACIÓN DE FONDOS
El TDHCA aceptará objeciones a la liberación de fondos y a la certificación de la Ciudad de Roma durante un período de quince (15) días a partir de la fecha anticipada de presentación o la fecha de recepción real de la solicitud (lo que ocurra más tarde), solo si se basan en uno de los siguientes motivos: (a) la certificación no fue firmada por el funcionario Certificante de la Ciudad de Roma; (b) la Ciudad de Roma omitió un paso o no tomó una decisión o determinación requerida por las regulaciones de HUD en 24 CFR Parte 58; (c) el beneficiario de la subvención u otros participantes del proyecto comprometieron fondos, incurrieron en gastos, o realizaron actividades no autorizadas por 24 CFR Parte 58 antes de la aprobación de la liberación de fondos por parte del TDHCA; o (d) otra agencia federal actuando conforme a 40 CFR Parte 1504 ha presentado una determinación escrita de que el proyecto es insatisfactorio desde el punto de vista de la calidad ambiental. Las objeciones deben prepararse y presentarse de acuerdo con los procedimientos establecidos (24 CFR Parte 58, Sección 58.76) y deben dirigirse al Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, P.O. Box 13941, Austin, Texas 78711. Se recomienda a los posibles objetores que se comuniquen con el TDHCA para confirmar la fecha exacta del último día del período de objeción.
Alejandro Barrera, Administrador de la Ciudad
ICS Celebrates Dr. Seuss’ 121st Birthday!
Pida a los 3 Ángeles San Miguel, Rafael y Gabriel. Prenda 3 velas blancas en un plato con agua y azúcar, haga su petición. A los tres días publique esta oración. Aunque no crea mire que pasa el cuarto día. A. P. R.
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO INTRODUCE A BILL IN THE LEGISLATURE OF TEXAS
Notice is hereby given of the intention to introduce in the Regular Session of the 89th Legislature of Texas a bill changing the name of the Starr County Drainage District to the Starr County Drainage and Groundwater Conservation District, and providing for the dissolution and transfer of the Starr County Groundwater Conservation District to the newly renamed district. e bill will outline the powers, duties, and governance of the Starr County Drainage and Groundwater Conservation District, in accordance with the provisions of Article XVI, Section 59 of the Constitution of Texas, Chapter 313 of the Local Government Code, and the relevant provisions of Chapters 49, 54, and 36 of the Texas Water Code.
e bill will include responsibilities related to both drainage and groundwater conservation within Starr County, as well as provide for the district’s administration, powers, duties, operation, and nancing, including the authority to levy assessments and issue bonds as authorized under applicable sections of the Texas Water Code.
is publication was paid for by Starr County.
Students and Faculty celebrated Dr. Seuss’ birthday with a parade in the school’s Parish Hall Thursday, March 6th where students showed their favorite character custom along with the book. ICS had the honor of three special persons that took time from their very busy schedule to come and judge the contest. ICS wants to thank Fr. Ortega (ICC Priest), Mrs. Evelyn Gonzalez (Wendy’s Office Manager), Mr. Manuel Barrera (Panda Express Manager) and our special surprise guest Wendy herself from Wendy’s! Thank you and many blessings. God is Good.
Wildflower Watching? Watch Out For Abandoned or Deteriorated Water Wells
As Texans embark on wildflower hikes, they’re urged to watch their step as they walk through the fields – there could be abandoned or deteriorated water wells and cisterns under foot.
Thousands of abandoned or deteriorated water wells and cisterns pose safety hazards and can contaminate groundwater by providing a direct conduit for chemicals and other surface contaminants, such as animal waste and pesticides, to directly enter aquifers and through them, into the drinking water supply. Uncapped wells and cisterns also present a physical danger to humans and animals who can be severely injured or killed when they fall partially or completely into the well.
Landowners who aren’t sure if they have abandoned water
wells or cisterns on their property should look for plastic, steel, brick or concrete casing (pipe) that may extend above ground, or for a hole in the ground with no apparent bottom. Some abandoned wells have concrete or brick casing extending above ground or a windmill with missing blades. Abandoned or deteriorated well casings or pipes may be cut off at ground level, posing an additional threat.
Wells are “abandoned” when they are not in use, as defined by Texas Occupations Code, Section 1901.255.
A “deteriorated” well is a well that is causing or likely to cause pollution of any water in the state, including groundwater.
Under Section 1901.255 of the Occupations Code, abandoned or deteriorated wells must be plugged
or brought into compliance within 180 days of a landowner learning that they have an abandoned or deteriorated well on their property.
Landowners are responsible for abandoned or deteriorated water wells on their property. If a well needs to be plugged, they may plug the well themselves (in compliance with Title 16, Texas Administrative Code, Section (76.104 Capping and Plugging Wells Standards) or hire a well driller or pump installer licensed by TDLR to plug the well or bring the well into compliance.
If a landowner chooses to plug the well themselves, they are required to plug the well in accordance with TDLR’s well plugging specifications (https:// www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/ wwdspecs.htm) and submit a
State of Texas Plugging Report to TDLR within 30 days from the date the well was plugged.
To avoid problems in the future, landowners should install a locking well cap or sanitary well seal – not just a cover over the well – to prevent unauthorized use or entry into the well. Septic systems should be pumped and inspected as often as recommended by the local health department. Care should be taken when mowing or working near the well. If you’re find an abandoned or deteriorated well, please report it to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation at https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/ abwells/default.aspx. Including an address or GPS coordinates and any photos or video of the well are helpful when you file the report.
Texas Senate Passes Death
Penalty with Super Majority Bipartisan Support
Legislation Expands Capital Murder Protections to Child Victims Aged 10–15
In a powerful show of unity, the Texas Senate on March 18, 2025 passed Senate Bill 990 (SB 990) with super majority bipartisan support, 26-5. SB 990, authored by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) advances a major effort to strengthen the state’s capital murder statute by raising the age threshold for capital murder eligibility from, under 10 to under 15 years old.
This Legislation would ensure offenders who murder children aged 10 to 15 can face the death penalty or life in prison without parole.
The bill was filed in response to the heartbreaking murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in June 2024. During Senate hearings, Jocelyn’s mother and April Aguirre, widowed aunt of
11-year-old Arlene Alvarez, gave emotional testimony in support:
“Why are we having mercy on monsters?” In addition, SB 990 is a direct response of the gap that “Lauren’s Law” tried to close, where SB 990 aims to fill that gap.
“We’re all tired of the continuing slaughter of our innocent children.” Senator Bettencourt stated. “If you kill our Texas kids, you’ll be doing more than just time—you’ll be subject to the death penalty,” He added.
Key Provisions of SB 990:
• Expands Capital Murder Eligibility
• Stronger Sentencing for Convicted Offenders
• Closes Legal Loopholes and Gaps
•Enhances Prosecutorial Tools
“What I hope is that Jocelyn and Maria’s deaths are not in vain, that there is a deterrence in the future. If we save just one child because of this…” Senator Bettencourt said. “There is just horrific evil out there that has to be stopped, and the slaughter of innocents has to stop.” He concluded.
SB 990 has received broad support from law enforcement, prosecutors, and victims’ advocacy groups who see it as a critical tool in the fight for justice and deterrence.
With Senate passage secured, SB 990 now moves to the Texas House for further consideration, with the goal of being signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.
Roma Police Department Fundraising Crawfish Boil! Join us for a delicious and fun-filled evening at the Roma Historical District as we come together to support our Roma High School seniors and bring joy to children through our Toys for Kids initiative! Date: April 12, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM Location:
Roma Historical District $15 per plate – Enjoy a mouthwatering crawfish plate while making a difference! All proceeds will go toward scholarships for Roma High School seniors and providing holiday gifts for local children during Toys for Kids Posada. Your support helps us give back to our community and make a lasting impact! Come enjoy great food, music, and community spirit! Bring your family and friends and help us make this event a success! For more information, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Officer Martinez 956-4371232 or Jasmine Lopez 956-844-1428. Let’s make a difference, one plate at a time!
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENGINEER
The City of Roma, Texas (the “City”) requests the submission of qualifications statements, which will lead to the possible award of contracts to provide services for a project involving the City’s waterworks system associated with TxDOT utility relocations.
Scope of Work
Services to be provided by Engineer: professional engineering services associated with proposed (a) planning, permitting, environmental, design and construction management phase services and other additional services associated with the relocation and removal of various water lines within the TxDOT rights-of-way along FM 650.
Guidelines for Content of Qualification Statements
DO NOT INCLUDE COST INFORMATION with the qualification statement. Responses that include cost or pricing information will be rejected and will not be considered by the City
Detailed instructions on preparation of the qualification statement must be obtained from the City. For more information on preparing and submitting the qualification statement, contact City Manager Alex Barrera, at (956) 849-1411 or abarrera@cityofroma.net. This information should be requested as soon as possible to allow time to prepare the document and comply with the procedures.
Submittal Deadline
One (1) copy of the qualifications statement must be received by the City by no later than 4:00 PM (Central) on April 24, 2025, at the offices of the City of Roma, 201 W. Convent Blvd., Roma, Texas 78584, Attn: Alex Barrera, City Manager.
Minimum Qualifications and Selection Criteria
The City will evaluate the proposals to determine which firm has the best qualifications.
Contract Terms and Negotiation Schedule
Consultants for Engineering services are expected to negotiate an agreement for services which is acceptable to the City. If an acceptable contract cannot be negotiated, the City may formally end negotiations and begin negotiating with the next highest qualified person or firm.
This RFQs are issued in accordance with Section 2254 of the Texas Government Code (Professional Services Act) and Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 31 (Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State and Local Governments).
Equal Opportunity in Employment - All qualified Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, handicap, or national origin. Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the President’s Executive Order No. 11246, as amended by Executive Order 11375, and as supplemented in Department of Labor regulations 41 CFR Part 60. Small, minority, and women-owned business enterprises are encouraged to respond.
