Hidalgo County Judge Reports Lack of Federal Communication on Razor Wire Installation in Peñitas
Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez stated that the federal government did not inform the county about the installation of military-grade razor wire in a Peñitas neighborhood. The wire is situated at the northern border of a federally controlled National Defense Area (NDA) established in June 2025. Cortez expressed concerns about the lack of communication from the military and federal agencies regarding both the wire and the NDA, emphasizing the need for local input in such decisions.
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Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez reported that the federal government did not notify the county about the installation of military-grade razor wire in Peñitas. The wire is located at the northern border of the National Defense Area (NDA), established in June 2025.
Cortez confirmed that the county was not contacted prior to the installation or about the NDA itself. He learned of the wire from reporters and noted it sits on private railroad property. Cortez criticized the lack of local input and stated that the installation could cause concern in the community.
The military claims the NDA is meant to facilitate trespassing charges against illegal entrants. Cortez described the NDA as a burden but has not seen significant jail overcrowding as a result.
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