Mission council to review Texas Citrus Fiesta governance after public concerns

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MISSION, Texas - The Mission City Council directed city staff Tuesday to prepare potential amendments to the governing resolution and bylaws of the Texas Citrus Fiesta following public concerns about transparency and the organization’s relationship with the city.

The discussion came during the Feb. 24 council meeting after several residents addressed city leaders about the longtime festival, raising questions about parade judging procedures and the use of taxpayer resources.

Norma Sanchez, a retired city employee and former board member of the Texas Citrus Fiesta, told council members she attempted to obtain judging score sheets from the festival’s parade after several schools participated.

Sanchez said she submitted open records requests but was informed that no score sheets were available.

“The lack of transparency is unacceptable, especially when children are involved,” Sanchez said. “What should be a joyful community-centered event has become extremely political.”

Another resident, Irma Flores Lopez, urged city leaders to consider the concerns of taxpayers who help support city initiatives.

Supporters of the festival also spoke in defense of the event and its role in the community.

April Flowers, a Texas Citrus Fiesta board member, said the celebration has deep roots in Mission and should continue to bring residents together.

“In recent weeks, many individuals have claimed deep concern for TCF,” Flowers said. “Unfortunately, their actions tell a very different story. Instead of supporting this historic and beautiful celebration, they’ve fueled chaos and division at a time when our community should very simply be united.”

Council members later addressed broader questions about oversight and accountability when public resources are involved.

Councilman Jose Alberto Vela said residents deserve clear answers when concerns arise about government spending.

“When questions come up about public funds, it’s important that we address them openly and clearly,” Vela said. “Transparency should never be viewed as a challenge. It should be viewed as a responsibility.”

At the conclusion of the discussion, council members directed staff to prepare proposed amendments to the Texas Citrus Fiesta’s governing resolution and bylaws for review at a future meeting.

The Texas Citrus Fiesta, founded in 1932, is one of Mission’s longest-running civic traditions and includes parades, pageants and community events celebrating the region’s citrus industry.