WESLACO, Texas - A board member of the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco is winning praise throughout the community.
After six years of dedicated service, Benita R. Valadez’s term on the board will soon expire. Colleagues say that since joining the EDCW board in 2018, Valadez has made an indelible mark on the city’s economic landscape, leaving a legacy of achievement that has benefited the city’s economic growth.
Valadez is an active small business owner in Weslaco.
Steven M. Valdez, executive director of the Weslaco EDC, said that during her tenure, Valadez played a pivotal role in the approval of 110 incentive projects, which collectively generated 1,617 jobs and attracted over $115,687,450 in capital investment to Weslaco. He said that as a hands-on leader, Valadez went beyond boardroom meeting discussions by actively engaging in the city's recruiting efforts, assisting in retaining and expanding existing businesses and was considered a champion for small businesses in Weslaco.
“Benita’s contributions to the board and our community have been monumental,” Valdez said. “Her expertise and insight have not only brought significant projects and jobs to our city, but she has also fostered relationships that will continue to support Weslaco’s development for years to come. We will miss her expertise and passion on the board.”
Valdez said Valadez was known as a conservative guardian of taxpayers' dollars, consistently ensuring that every project was a sound investment. He said her attention to detail when reviewing incentive proposals was on point, providing careful analysis and thoughtful consideration of each business opportunity.
Valadez served two consecutive three-year terms. During that time, she accompanied EDCW staff and city elected officials at numerous recruitment trade shows across the country. Colleagues said that during these shows she helped showcase Weslaco’s potential as an ideal location for new and expanding businesses. Her involvement in these initiatives brought direct connections to industries, fostering relationships that played a critical part in attracting major investments to the region, Valdez explained.
EDCW’s board president is Jerry Gonzalez. Gonzalez said Valadez’s involvement on the EDC board of directors also included the acquisition of 147 acres dedicated to the establishment of Weslaco’s second “Class A” industrial park, the widening of Mile 9 road along the southern section of the park, improving access to residents at the Las Brisas residential development and the addition of a new lift station to service industrial and commercial development along FM 1015.
Gonzalez said that because she is small business owner, Valadez has a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by local small businesses and has, therefore, been a strong advocate and champion for small business development.
He said Valadez played an instrumental role in expanding small business grants for building façades and code related improvements to older downtown buildings and in the process of creating of a new grant that targets entrepreneurs and first-time business owners.
“Benita’s work ethic, vision, and commitment to our city have been truly inspiring,” Gonzalez said. “From her efforts in reviewing, fine tuning and approving projects that have created jobs and drawn investments, her influence will be felt in Weslaco for years to come.”
Weslaco Mayor Adrian Gonzalez reflected on Valadez’s six-year tenure on the EDCW’s board.
“Benita’s work with the EDCW has left a lasting impact on Weslaco’s economic future. The numerous companies that chose Weslaco during her time on the board will contribute to property and sales taxes, allowing us to invest in much-needed improvements to our city’s infrastructure. We are deeply grateful for her service and unwavering dedication to the community,” Mayor Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez said that as Valadez concludes her role on the board of directors EDCW, the City of Weslaco expresses its sincere gratitude for her service and leadership. “Her legacy of growth, innovation, and community commitment leaves a strong foundation for continued success.”
In a posting on social media, Valadez said: “It’s been an honor to serve on the Weslaco EDC Board of Directors. I want to thank the Mayor and Weslaco City Commission for trusting my capabilities and vision in what is good for Weslaco. I also want to thank my fellow Board Members, our Executive Director Steve Valdez and EDC staff for working hard to make our vision possible in bringing companies with high paying jobs. But most important I like to thank my husband Daniel Valadez and my family for supporting my tenure as I served on this important Board.
“I know that this Board and Staff will continue to work hard in attracting Business with good paying jobs with benefits for the Citizens of Weslaco. There is so much more coming to Weslaco that I can’t share now but trust me, it’s great companies that will make Weslaco continue its prosperity.”
About the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco
The Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco is committed to fostering a vibrant and sustainable local economy by attracting new businesses, supporting existing businesses, and promoting job creation. Through its strategic initiatives, the EDC has helped transform Weslaco into a dynamic community that welcomes growth and innovation.
For more information, contact: Steven M. Valdez, Executive Director at 956-969-0838 or visit the EDCW office located on 275 S. Kansas Ave. Suite A, Weslaco, TX 78596.
