President's Message

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

First and foremost, thank you to everyone who took the time to vote on Proposition 1. Your

participation in our democratic process means a great deal, and your voice is always valued.

While I share in your disappointment that Proposition 1 did not pass, I want to take a moment to

explain what this measure truly represented—and why it was so important to the future of our

community.

We asked voters to consider approving a tax rate of up to 10 cents per $100 of property

valuation. However, it’s important to clarify that our intent was never to increase the rate to the

full 10 cents right away. Our plan was to raise it by just 5 cents—an increase of about $20.40 per

year for a home valued at $100,000. For most, that’s less than the cost of one dinner out.

Currently, our tax rate sits at just 2.96 cents per $100, which amounts to $29.60 per year on a

$100,000 home. This small increase we proposed would have helped us take a significant step

forward in building a sustainable and independent emergency medical service for our district.

Here’s why it matters: Right now, Hidalgo County is helping fund our ambulance service, but

that support is temporary—tied to remaining ARPA funds from the COVID-19 pandemic. These

funds will run out within the next year, and the county has made it clear they are not obligated to

continue financial assistance.

We’ve already taken bold steps to prepare for the future, including the purchase of two

ambulances and the beginning stages of equipping them. While we do have about $1.2 million in

reserve, that amount will only cover operations for roughly one year. Without additional funding,

we face serious challenges in continuing to provide timely, life-saving emergency services.

Please know this: We are not giving up. Our mission to serve the Delta Area remains strong. We

will continue to explore every possible avenue to secure funding and protect the health and

safety of our community.

Thank you again for your time, your voice, and your ongoing support. Together, we will find a

way forward.

With gratitude and blessings

Jason Pena Jr.

President, ESD No. 2

May 5, 2025