Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez reacts to Department of Defense designating portions of Hidalgo and Cameron County as National Defense Areas

EDINBURG – Land in South Texas previously under the control of the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) has been transferred to the General Services Administration (GSA) and designated as a National Defense Area. Portions of Hidalgo and Cameron County will now be administered as part of Joint Base San Antonio, Texas according to a statement from the United States Air Force.

“My current understanding is that the Secretary of Defense has ordered the establishment of a new National Defense Area encompassing areas of Hidalgo and Cameron County,” said Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez. “From what has been shared with us this area will now be considered an extension of Joint Base San Antonio, so essentially an operating military base.”

Judge Cortez noted that to his knowledge there has been no direct communication between Hidalgo County officials and the Department of Defense regarding the establishment of the National Defense Area.

“These are uncertain times and as Hidalgo County Judge I welcome the brave service men and women who have volunteered to protect our nation, but I also encourage the Department of Defense and United States Air Force leadership to visit with us local leaders as soon as possible. It is imperative that we all understand the mission and objectives so that we may work together to protect our citizens.”