The Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco (EDCW) is proud to announce that, for the first time in the city’s 105-year history, it has surpassed $1 billion in taxable sales. According to the Texas State Comptroller’s Office yearly report, businesses within the city limits of Weslaco generated a total of $1,008,810,769 in taxable sales for Fiscal Year 2023-24, a key indicator of the city’s expanding economic base and retail influence.
“For a city the size of Weslaco, with just over 42,000 residents, reaching the billion-dollar mark is a sign that we have arrived,” said Jerry Gonzalez, EDCW Board President. “This impressive milestone highlights our city’s continued growth and the thriving retail and service sectors that not only serve Weslaco, but the entire Mid-Valley region.
The EDCW explains that taxable sales are generated when consumers purchase taxable goods and services, with an 8.25% sales tax applied to most purchases (excluding groceries). For instance, when a family spends $100 at a restaurant, $8.25 (8.25%) in sales tax is added to the bill, bringing the total to $108.25. Of that amount, $100 stays with the restaurant, $6.25 (6.5%) goes to the State of Texas, and $2.00 (2%) stays in Weslaco.
By applying these calculations and analyzing the data, the EDCW can break down the taxable sales into the following components:
• State of Texas (6.25%): $63,050,673.06
• City of Weslaco (2%): $20,176,215.38
• Business Owners: $1,008,810,769
“The entire South Texas region is experiencing significant growth,” said Steven M. Valdez, Executive Director of the EDCW. “As the EDCW continues to attract new businesses—both industrial and commercial—more families are choosing to put down roots in Weslaco. The growth of all three sectors—industrial, commercial, and residential—is vital to creating a balanced, sustainable community that fosters long-term prosperity.”
The EDCW states that this milestone would not have been possible without the leadership of the Weslaco City Commission, Mayor, and the EDCW Board of Directors for their steady guidance and thoughtful decision-making in shaping the city’s growth strategy. Their focus on infrastructure development, governmental stability, and fostering a business-friendly environment has been crucial to Weslaco’s economic success.
Most importantly, the EDCW recognizes the vital role played by the residents of Weslaco and surrounding communities. It is their choice to shop locally, support local businesses, and invest in the city’s quality of life that has contributed to this historic achievement. “Our community’s residents are the most important contributors to this benchmark,” said Gonzalez. “The hard work and dedication of our local business owners, workers, and citizens make Weslaco a place people are proud to call home.”
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, please 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.
