Mayor Hernandez jokes that south Pharr should be renamed Spamerville

PHARR, Texas – Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez says he sometimes jokes with businessman Joaquin Spamer that south Pharr should be renamed Spamerville.

That is because Spamer’s company, CIL Capital, invests so much in the southern part of the city. The southern part of the city, which used to be called Las Milpas, connects to the Pharr International Bridge. Spamer’s logistics company, CIL Group, moves a lot of cargo across the bridge. 

“We joke around sometimes, Joaquin and I. I tell him, at some point I will have to consider calling it Spamerville since they (CIL) build so much in south Pharr. And we are very grateful,” Hernandez said.

Hernandez said Spamer and CIL could choose any community in the Valley in which to expand.

“There are so many beautiful communities in the Rio Grande Valley. We are honored that you and your family have chosen Pharr once again,” Hernandez said.

“We know your track record and what you have done with large industry and now the private sector here as well, when it comes to the plazas.”

Hernandez made his remarks at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the latest CIL Capital project – the 9,000-square-foot Practical Business Plaza – Phase 2. The strip mall is being built at 8001 S. Jackson Road in south Pharr. 

Among the speakers were Mayor Hernandez, Pharr Economic Development Corporation President Victor Perez, and CIL Group Founder and President Joaquin Spamer. Here is a video recording featuring highlights from the ceremony:

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In his remarks, Hernandez threw his support behind Spamer’s big initiative to unite economic development efforts for the region. The initiative is called RioPlex.

“He wants the Valley to be viewed as one area. There is no Pharr. There is no Brownsville. There is just one area, known as the Rio Grande Valley. A beautiful area. We strongly believe that we want industry to come here, to support the Rio Grande Valley and to invest in job opportunities, education.  But you must do it under one flag. And you’re right, it should be under one flag, Joaquin. You’re absolutely right. It should be.”

Hernandez continued: “At times, we get our egos involved, whether it be civic leaders, mayors or councilmen or school districts, and we forget the big picture. And once in a while, we get a great leader who actually brings it back in focus. That would be Joaquin. So, thank you for your vision.”

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held April 25, 2025, for CIL Capital’s latest project – the 9,000-square-foot Practical Business Plaza – Phase 2. (Photo: RGG/Steve Taylor)

In his remarks, Spamer praised the mayor, the city commission, and Pharr EDC for the growth Pharr has undergone over the last 15 years. He said the Valley benefits greatly from industrial growth.

“Everyone needs to support the Rioplex Industrial Revolution. We are not trying to change the name of the region but rather give it brand recognition,” Spamer said, pointing out that Rioplex includes the northern part of Tamaulipas. 

“If you look at the numbers, we’re larger than San Antonio and we have more capacity than Monterrey,” Spamer said. We made a presentation in Houston because the RGV is not recognized within the state and even less nationwide. When all of our advantages are pointed out, people are amazed. We need to fight for an identity that recognizes who we really are.”

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