JULIAN LONGORIA
By ALBERT VILLEGAS
Special to the NEWS
RIO HONDO, TX—Julian Longoria was unanimously sworn into office as this city’s public safety director during a special city commission meeting at the civic center on Friday, July 11.
He takes over for William Bilokury, who had previously manned the position, which oversees the police and fire departments, since December 2014.
Longoria said his progress and growth in the position, which also includes being the police chief, will be impacted by how the community responds.
Having worked in various capacities with the Rio Hondo Police Department and the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office for the past 11 years, and serving as a deacon in a local church, Longoria is well-acquainted with the city and its residents.
“Everyone who has supported me over the years, I hope you will continue to do so; I already realize it’s going to be a lot of work, and the good thing is I’m up for it,” said Longoria, who had his badge pinned by his wife, Jasmine. “I’m going to be your public safety director 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
The special meeting lasted just over 10 minutes and included opening and closing prayers by various faith leaders. It was attended by approximately 100 people, including law enforcement officers and elected officials from neighboring cities.
“Judging by what we’re seeing, it looks like we made the right choice,” Rio Hondo Mayor Gustavo “Gus” Olivares said as he opened the special meeting.
City of Alton Municipal Judge Eric D. Flores swore in Longoria.
Commissioner Jose “Peps” Cavazos made the motion to appoint Longoria and received a second from Commissioner Olga Gallegos.
Former director Bilokury had his post terminated by the Rio Hondo City Commission in May. Bilokury had replaced Weldon Matlock, who had resigned after serving for over four years.
It took little time before Longoria and his team was called into action as, on Monday, July 14, at approximately 12:17 a.m., Rio Hondo Emergency Services (RHES) received a call for service regarding a vehicle fire at the intersection of E. Colorado and S. Arroyo Blvd.
According to RHES report, at approximately 12:30 am, Rio Hondo Volunteer Fire Fighters and law enforcement were on scene. The vehicle fire was extinguished, and the scene was under control without loss to life or loss to other property.
“Rio Hondo Emergency Services extends its heartfelt gratitude for the men and women of the Volunteer Rio Hondo Fire Department who selflessly perform their duties for the benefit of the greater Rio Hondo area,” read a city-issued statement.
Anyone with more information on how to help serve the community through volunteer work is being asked email the Rio Hondo Public Safety Director at jlongoria@riohondo.us.
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