SUBJECT
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A resolution of the City Council of the City of Laredo, Texas, authorizing the City Manager to submit an application to the Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas for the 2026 Economic Mobility Program Grant, in the annual amount of $250,000, for a total amount of up to $1,250,000.00, with no match for the City of Laredo Public Health Department, for a total of a five (5) year term, to be effective on November 01, 2026 through October 31, 2031, and further authorizing the City Manager to execute all documents resulting from the award of this grant. Any funding as a result of this application will be appropriated in the Laredo Public Health Department Fund - 2026 Economic Mobility Program Grant.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
None.
BACKGROUND
The City of Laredo Public Health Department wishes to apply for funding through Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. under the 2026 Economic Mobility Request for Proposals to establish a centralized economic mobility initiative for residents experiencing financial hardship. Through this initiative, eligible residents will be connected with individualized mentoring and economic opportunity resources designed to strengthen financial stability and support pathways toward long-term economic mobility. The program will also provide limited direct cash assistance to eligible participants as part of a coordinated approach to addressing immediate financial barriers while supporting longer-term economic goals.
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
• Goal 6.1: Promote economic stability and improve quality of life for Laredo residents.
• Policy 6.1.1: Support programs and services that address financial hardship and strengthen household economic stability.
• Policy 6.1.2: Connect residents with resources, education, and opportunities that promote financial self-sufficiency and long-term economic mobility.
• Goal 7.4: Foster a culture of health and well-being by addressing social and economic factors that influence health outcomes.
• Policy 7.4.1: Support community-based initiatives that improve overall health, well-being, and quality of life.
• Goal 7.5: Strengthen community partnerships and coordinated service delivery.
Summary of alignment: This resolution aligns with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by supporting a coordinated economic mobility initiative designed to assist residents experiencing financial hardship. The program will connect eligible participants with individualized mentoring, economic opportunity resources, and limited direct cash assistance to address immediate financial barriers while promoting long-term financial stability and self-sufficiency. By addressing economic conditions that influence individual and family well-being, the initiative supports improved quality of life, strengthens access to community resources, and promotes sustainable pathways toward economic mobility.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends that Council approve the Resolution.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N/A
Source of Funds: 2026 Economic Mobility
Account #: N/A
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funds will be appropriated once awarded.