Detailed writings and social-economic reports available in local and state libraries and the publications of the United States Department of Commerce reflect the general characteristics that influence the city, and characteristics of a general nature that have been considered in this plan are the regional potential of the Lower Rio Grande Valley; the fertile soils, farming, citrus; the scenic and historical attractions; the potential National Park on Padre Island; Old Mexico, tourism; oil and gas activities; water resources; and the social-economic base. In addition, the city is directly influenced by being a deepwater port and commercial and sportsmen’s fishing headquarters. There is excellent fishing for tarpon and a wide variety of game and edible fish in bays and on the open waters of the Gulf. A short distance to the north of the city is the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, notable for redheads and pintails.
(Ord. 218, passed 6-13-1960)