Testimonials
Testimonials
“We love Weslaco. It has been proven time and time again that it is a great place to do business”
- Joaquin Spamer, CiL
News & Press
August 25th, 2016 Press Release
The Board of Directors for the Weslaco Economic Development Corporation proudly announce the naming of Marie McDermott as Executive Director of the Weslaco EDC. Since April, 2016, McDermott has bee... Read More
Weslaco EDC's ALFRESCO - Music & Art Street Festival
Press ReleaseJANUARY 1, 2016
It's not new to Weslaco, but taking a needed breath of fresh air. The Afresco Downtown Music and Art Festival now boost of having some of the largest crowds recorded in its recent history. The current Weslaco EDC team collaborated efforts to improve the event's energy and participation are always on hand enjoying the fun. "It's about quality of life," says Marie McDermott, named executive director in June, 2016. "Families are always looking for fun and inexpensive things to do together and the Alfresco event means they can find that in their own home town.
Marie McDermott
August 25th, 2016 Press Release
Press ReleaseAUGUST 25, 2016
The Board of Directors for the Weslaco Economic Development Corporation proudly announce the naming of Marie McDermott as Executive Director of the Weslaco EDC. Since April, 2016, McDermott has been serving as Interim EDC Executive Director and after a unanimous vote by the EDC seven member board earlier last week, she has full and complete autonomy to execute responsibilities of performing any and all duties of the office of the executive director.
No Contact Information available.
Signing Ceremony Commemorates Donations by City of Weslaco, Weslaco EDC to A&M-Kingsville Engineering Initiative
Press ReleaseOCTOBER 18, 2016
A signing was held Tuesday, Oct. 18 at Weslaco City Hall to commemorate donations from the City of Weslaco and the Weslaco Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Rio Grande Valley Engineering Initiative.
UTRGV Moving Forward
Press ReleaseFEBRUARY 17, 2017
A project one-year-in the making is moving forward as the University of Texas Board of Regents gave the green light for UT Rio Grande Valley to lease space in the upcoming business incubator in Weslaco.
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Three-week course to accommodate 80 students
Press ReleaseMAY 21, 2017
The Weslaco Economic Development Corporation just made aspiring vloggers quite happy. A drone summer camp has been organized by the City of Weslaco and the EDC in partnership with CODE RGV.
No Contact Information available.
First of its Kind Drone Summer Camp in Weslaco
Press ReleaseMAY 17, 2017
Growing in popularity and gaining momentum at becoming an industry standard is the rise of the unmanned aircraft commonly known as drone technology.
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McDermott: New cluster in Weslaco promises synergy, innovation, ideas
Press ReleaseOCTOBER 10, 2017
WESLACO, RGV – The executive director of the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco cannot wait to see what synergies develop from a unique cluster of organizations and institutions that have made or are making her city home.
In an exclusive interview with the Rio Grande Guardian, Marie McDermott ran through the
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European site selectors pay their first visit to the RGV
Press ReleaseFEBRUARY 28, 2018
WESLACO, RGV – A tour of the Rio Grande Valley, stretching over three days, has just finished for five site selectors from Germany.
The selectors specialize in helping European manufacturing companies expand into North America and they were given their first tour of the Valley, comprising 21 different stops, by Rio South Texas Economic Council (RSTEC).
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Experts: UTRGV’s Center of Innovation & Commercialization can transform the Valley
Press ReleaseJANUARY 24, 2018
WESLACO, RGV – Laurie Simmons, manager of the new UTRGV Center of Innovation and Commercialization (CIC), says the new center is striving to become the entrepreneurial hub of the region.
Simmons said the 20,000-square-foot facility will provide the necessary resources for supporting the growth and success of startup companies and entrepreneurs. It will also be home to the Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship (VCOBE) PhD program.
No Contact Information available.
Cotton export company CiL is moving its HQ to Weslaco
Press ReleaseJULY 25, 2017
WESLACO, RGV – In mid-July, the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco announced Ci Logistics will expand its company, creating 72 new jobs for the city.
Ci Logistics (CiL) is a major import-export logistic service company focusing largely on the cotton industry in the United States and Mexico. CiL plans on expanding the facility by 210,000 square feet of logistics and distributive space, making the Weslaco location the new headquarters for the company at 560,000 square feet.
No Contact Information available.
Site selectors from Germany learn of the Mid-Valley’s assets
Press ReleaseMARCH 18, 2018
WESLACO, RGV – Five site selectors from Germany recently learned about the benefits of investing in Weslaco and the Mid-Valley area.
During a dinner at Arturo’s Restaurant in Weslaco, presentations were made by Steve Valdez, director of Weslaco Economic Development Corporation, Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council executive director Ron Garza, logistics businessman Joaquin Spamer, HEB facility leader Juan “J.J.” Serrano, Jr., and Samuel Zapata, assistant professor and extension economist for Texas A&M AgriLife Research Extension.
No Contact Information available.
STC and Weslaco EDC to host Check Presentation for Job Training Grant
Press ReleaseNOVEMBER 1, 2018
South Texas College together with the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco will host a check presentation Thursday, Nov. 1. The purpose of this check presentation is in recognition of Weslaco EDC’s support to increase the number of job training opportunities in the area. McAllen, Texas - South Texas College together with the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco will host a check presentation Thursday, Nov.
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Small businesses to benefit from STC job training grant awarded by Weslaco EDC
Press ReleaseNOVEMBER 1, 2018
High wage-high skill jobs are critical to improving regional prosperity and a better quality of life for Valley families, according to STC leaders who have announced a brand new partnership with Weslaco EDC to increase high skill, high wage jobs in the Mid-Valley region.
At a check signing ceremony on Nov. 1, Weslaco presented STC with a $100,000 grant to be used by the college to provide customized training for small businesses in retail, manufacturing, and logistics. The funding period for the grant is from Oct. 1, 2018 to Sept. 30, 2019.
No Contact Information available.
The city Commission of Weslaco appoints new EDC board member to serve 3 year term.
Press ReleaseNOVEMBER 30, 2018
On November 6, 2018, Commissioners of the City of Weslaco unanimously approved the appointment of Benita R. Valadez as the newest member of the Board of Directors for the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco.
UTRGV’s Center for Innovation & Commercialization officially opens
Press ReleaseDECEMBER 2, 2018
“Whether this center provides another educational opportunity for the people of this area or is a hub of innovation of the Rio Grande Valley, we are so proud and honored to have placed the responsibility of its success in the hands of UTRGV,” said Suarez. “ … I like the sound of UTRGV Weslaco. It is a compliment to the university’s regional perspective and incorporates Weslaco into the UTRGV family.”
No Contact Information available.
Downtown Weslaco continues to thrive
Press ReleaseDECEMBER 13, 2018
“What is significant about these recent additions is that stability and profitability continue to be relevant factors to investors looking at downtown Weslaco,” says Marie McDermott, Executive Director of the EDC of Weslaco. “It also shows that Weslaco’s growth is diversified and spread out evenly and offers a sense of balance for both the store owners and shoppers.
Part 141 Flight School comes to Weslaco’s Mid Valley Airport
Press ReleaseDECEMBER 17, 2018
The flight school is said to fill a national pilot shortage as reported in Forbes Magazine in July, 2018. The article quotes Boeing projecting “the need for 790,000 new pilots by the year 2037, to meet growing demand,…” for travel and new aircraft entering the global fleet.
New pilot school to take off in Weslaco
Press ReleaseDECEMBER 21, 2018
Texas Aviation Academy, owned by Jeremy Reiley of Harlingen, plans to offer training and certification for students to become private or commercial pilots through its flight school in Weslaco beginning in January. Academy owners signed a 10-year lease to rent part of Weslaco’s airport this month.
Weslaco Builds on its History
Press ReleaseFEBRUARY 1, 2019
An associated program awards funds for façade renovations such as improvements in windows and door repairs, brick and mortar repairs, glass replacement, and landscaping, awning and paint improvements. The EDC sets aside $50,000 a year from its general fund for each of the two programs.
No Contact Information available.
Weslaco’s footprint in cotton distribution continues to grow
Press ReleaseMARCH 19, 2019
The City of Weslaco and the Economic Development Corporation invites you to the ground breaking ceremonies, March 22, 2019, at 10:00 AM, located at 1850 E. Sugar Cane Dr. in Weslaco, for the construction of 282,500 square feet of warehouse space at the Mid Valley Industrial Park in Weslaco.
Commodities Integrated Logistics, (CIL) Group, a leader in the shipping of U.S. cotton into Mexico, handling over 60% of the crossings, has plans to increases its services in Weslaco through the expansion of the new facilities.
South Texas & Tamaulipas Economic Development Leaders Sign Collaboration Agreement
Press ReleaseMARCH 23, 2019
“Our strength is the ability to promote the communities in both states as one region.” said the Secretary of Economic Development for the State of Tamaulipas, Carlos Garcia, adding “The ability to have operations on both sides of the Rio Grande river is what makes companies look at our region favorably.” Rio South Texas Economic Council’s Executive Director, Matt Z. Ruszczak, also commented “Working together, sharing tools, combining resources, and leveraging the advantages of South Texas and Tamaulipas is what puts our region on the global map, and opens the door to attracting investment from across the globe. Today, we kicked our regional game up another notch, and we are all excited about the fruit this initiative will bear in the future.
No Contact Information available.
The City Commission of Weslaco appoints new EDC board member to serve unexpired term
Press ReleaseAPRIL 1, 2019
On March 12, 2019, Commissioners of the City of Weslaco unanimously approved the appointment of Juan Jose “JJ” Serrano to fill the unexpired term of the late Mr. Rudy Cisneros, who died, January 4, 2019.
Cisneros was remembered as a dedicated public servant and established business owner of Weslaco
Weslaco sees a rebirth in 80,000 square foot proportions.
Press ReleaseAPRIL 5, 2019
The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Weslaco announces the opening of the new Kapal Industries warehouse, factory and showroom, at their new location at 508 S. Nevada Ave. in Weslaco.
The announcement comes on the heels of the recent ground breaking ceremony of 282,500 square feet of warehouse space for cotton distribution, by Commodities Integrated Logistics, (CIL) Group, placing Weslaco among the top cities for logistics, distribution and manufacturing.
Internships incorporated in Weslaco's EDC incentives
Press ReleaseJULY 12, 2019
As the EDC continues to facilitate growth and stimulate the economy in Weslaco, it will continue to encourage and sustain the inclusion of internships into every future incentive package. “The development of our workforce is just as important as recruiting new businesses to Weslaco,” says EDC Board Secretary Cynthia Cabaza. “Internships play a key role” says Cabaza, “in cultivating hands-on, industry savvy employees that would not have otherwise been developed.”
Marie McDermott, Executive Director
956-969-0838
First round of employee training under the Weslaco EDC’s belt
Press ReleaseJULY 9, 2019
For the first round of skill development and workforce training, the EDC of Weslaco targeted over 50 companies in the Mid Valley Industrial Park and other surrounding warehousing, distribution and manufacturing companies. Some of the companies in attendance at the luncheon included, Kapal Cabinet House, HEB Distribution, ColiMex Cold Storage, Maverick Industrial Services, Trinity Engineering, Texas Fireguard, Tex-Mex Sales (onion sales) & AEP Texas.
Marie McDermott, Executive Director
956-969-0838
Weslaco’s impact in the cotton industry takes another giant step forward
Press ReleaseAUGUST 13, 2019
"The investment in Weslaco is reported at roughly $8 million along with the creation of 10 new jobs and a paid intern position. The paid internship program is encouraged by the EDC to connect high school and college age students to the workforce. "
Gonzalez: Spamer has succeeded by providing great customer service
Press ReleaseAUGUST 26, 2019
No Contact Information available.
Bus tour highlights a growing and vibrant Weslaco
Press Release
OCTOBER 11, 2019
"Weslaco EDC has organized an annual bus tour for the past few years in order to showcase the new projects the group has been involved in."
No Contact Information available.
The Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco begins 2020 with a revamped board under new leadership and with two new members.
Press ReleaseJANUARY 27, 2020
The new board members join a Weslaco EDC that saw strong performance in 2019. The EDC was instrumental in bringing the Kapal Cabinet House to Weslaco in filling a new 80,000-square-foot facility that makes turn-key cabinets that serve hotels throughout the United States. The Weslaco EDC also worked closely with Commodities Integrated Logistics, (CiL), in fast tracking the permitting process in building and opening over 280,000 square feet of warehousing in the distribution of American-grown cotton to Mexico and around the world.
SBA offers several lifelines to small businesses impacted by virus
Press ReleaseAPRIL 10, 2020
"Emergency funding and forgivable loans were the primary topic of discussion during a webinar hosted by the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco Thursday morning which was attended by nearly 100 people. On hand to discuss the economic lifelines approved by Congress as part of the $2 trillion CARES Act last month were two officials from the SBA, a local banker, and state Rep. Armando “Mando” Martinez."
No Contact Information available.
Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco (EDC) has developed a COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program
Press ReleaseMAY 12, 2020
In response to the adverse economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco (EDC) has developed a COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program to provide assistance to Weslaco-based businesses suffering from financial impacts related to the COVID-19 (corona-virus) pandemic.
The Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco announces business names of grant/loans recipients of the COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program
Press ReleaseMAY 26, 2020
The Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco announces business names of grant/loans recipients of the COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program intended to provide assistance to Weslaco-based businesses suffering from financial impacts related to the COVID-19 (corona-virus) pandemic.
No Contact Information available.
The Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco announces the coming of a retail giant in the tool and accessories industry, Harbor Freight Tools.
Press ReleaseJUNE 10, 2020
“We have been looking to open a Harbor Freight Tools location in Weslaco,” says Craig Hoffman, Director, Corporate Communications & Content for Harbor Freight, “and we are very appreciative of the efforts of the City Leaders and the Economic Development Corporation for all of their cooperation and enthusiasm in helping this become a realit
(Press Release) The Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco (EDC) and the City of Weslaco has developed a ROUND TWO (2) COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program
Press ReleaseAUGUST 7, 2020
In response to the adverse economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco (EDC) and the City of Weslaco has developed a ROUND TWO (2) COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program to provide assistance to Weslaco-based businesses suffering from financial impacts related to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.
The loan/grant is available to all non-home-based retail and small businesses located in the City of Weslaco, that have not been awarded a previous grant issued by the EDC of Weslaco in May, 2020, and must have 0-10 or fewer full-time employees: however, priority will be given to non-essential business with 0-5 employees and retail businesses that have frequent and/or close contact with customers.
Weslaco EDC is a hosting a signing ceremony throughout the day, for the receptions of 2nd Round COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program.
Press ReleaseAUGUST 31, 2020
Today, Monday, August 31, 2020 Weslaco EDC is a hosting a signing ceremony throughout the day, for the receptions of 2nd Round COVID-19 Weslaco Small Business Recovery Assistance Loan/Grant Program.
"27 companies were awarded the maximum amount of $5000 for a total of EDC/City of Weslaco contribution of $135,000."
The City of Weslaco & EDC Welcome Robinson Fresh with a Grand Opening Celebration
Press ReleaseFEBRUARY 16, 2021
"After months of searching for the right location with specific cold storage and refrigerated needs, the company selected the 46,000 sq. ft. facility operated by CiL Fresh, a division of the CiL Group, a primary warehouse and cotton distribution company. The partnership between Robinson Fresh and CiL Fresh created 60 new jobs to Weslaco and moving an average of 65 truck loads of produce to all five regions of the United States."
Spamer: Why we love doing business in Weslaco
Press Release
MARCH 9, 2021
WESLACO, Texas – Moving Mexican customs operations to the U.S. side of Progreso International Bridge will speed up the time it takes trucks to cross the bridge, thus creating a saving on distribution costs.
This is the view of Joaquin Spamer, president of Commodities Integrated Logistics (CIL). Because goods can cross at Progreso more rapidly and at less cost, the Mid Valley area can expect to see a “boom” in warehouse and logistics business, he predicted.
No Contact Information available.
Fuentes: Welcome, Robinson Fresh to Weslaco, Texas
Press ReleaseMARCH 5, 2021
On behalf of the City of Weslaco and the County of Hidalgo, ladies and gentlemen, we are honored to be here today to officially welcome each of you and our newest company in the cold storage industry, Robinson Fresh and CIL Fresh to our great city of Weslaco.
No Contact Information available.
Hampton Inn Breaks Ground in Weslaco
Press ReleaseAUGUST 14, 2018
No Contact Information available.
A business boom is unfolding in Weslaco and the city’s economic development corporation announces that $19 million in new investments is expected to generate 100 new jobs in the community.
Press ReleaseAUGUST 1, 2021
No Contact Information available.
Valdez Sets Sights High For Weslaco EDC
Press Release
MAY 27, 2021
Steven M. Valdez was selected as the executive director by the EDC’s board on May 19. Valdez formerly served as the EDC’s director for nearly five years. He comes into his new job with an understanding of the organization’s key functions. He also knows how it interacts with city government. Those were all key reasons for his selection as the EDC’s new executive director.
No Contact Information available.
RGV town attracts over $19 million in investment
Press Release
AUGUST 2, 2021
Three private sector food manufacturing companies — ColiMex, Inc., Clean Label Foods LLC and La Abuela Mexican Foods Inc. — are launching or expanding operations in Weslaco, a news release said.
“These are exciting times for the region of South Texas and Weslaco where we’ve seen growth on every scale,’’ Steven Valdez, the executive director for the Weslaco Economic Development Corporation, said adding that
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Weslaco Economic Development Announces 19-million in New Investments
Press ReleaseAUGUST 12, 2021
No Contact Information available.