SUBJECT
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A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Laredo, Texas authorizing the City Manager to ratify the submittal of a grant application in the amount of $2,900,000.00 to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program to maximize the number of children under the age of six protected from lead poisoning by undertaking comprehensive programs to identify and control lead-based paint hazards in eligible housing populations. Grant match in the amount not to exceed $250,000.00 and is available through Community Development CDBG Funds.
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VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Goal 7.2 - Reduce exposure to environmental risk factors
“Reduce exposure to air pollution” through mitigation efforts and coordinated health strategies.
Page 7.22
Source: Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan.
Relevance: While this goal primarily references air pollution, it broadly encompasses environmental risk factors, including lead-based paint hazards, which pose a serious health risk to children under six.
Policy 7.2.4 - Reduce health risks posed by unsafe housing and buildings
“Promote policies and partnerships that address unsafe and unsanitary housing conditions including exposure to lead, asbestos, and mold.”
Page 7.23
Source: Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan.
Relevance: This policy directly supports efforts like the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant by calling for partnerships and policy initiatives that mitigate lead exposure in housing.
Goal 7.8 - Improve access to medical care
“Distribute primary care offices, clinics, and laboratories amongst the various districts and neighborhoods that make up the city.”
Page 7.27
Source: Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan.
Relevance: While not directly medical care, reducing lead hazards supports overall health access by preventing chronic conditions caused by environmental factors like lead exposure.
Summary of alignment:
This resolution strongly aligns with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan’s health and housing goals. The grant directly supports Policy 7.2.4, which specifically references the mitigation of lead hazards in housing, making this a textbook case of plan-policy fulfillment. The broader context of Goal 7.2 further strengthens alignment, emphasizing the City’s commitment to reducing environmental health risks. The initiative also intersects with themes of public health, housing equity, and sustainability, as it protects vulnerable populations-especially children-from long-term harm while improving housing conditions across Laredo.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
N/A
BACKGROUND
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made the Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program available to states and local governments to conduct comprehensive programs to control lead-based paint hazards. Anticipated Award Date for this round is 09/15/2025.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends the approval of this resolution.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2025-2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N
Source of Funds: HUD
Account #:
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The Community Development Departments plans to use CDBG funds for the local match and if awarded, grant will be accounted in the Community Development Fund.