SUBJECT
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Public hearing and introductory ordinance authorizing the establishment of fees, terms, and conditions for the lease and use of the El Metro Park & Ride facility, owned by the City of Laredo and operated by the Laredo International Airport, located at 1819 Hillside Road, Laredo TX 78041; providing for authority, administration, insurance requirements, operational conditions, and cost recovery; providing for severability; and providing an effective date.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
N/A
BACKGROUND
The El Metro Park & Ride Facility, owned by the City of Laredo and operated by the Laredo International Airport, has historically been utilized for transportation operations, community events, public gatherings, and temporary staging through short-term lease arrangements.
At present, there is no formally adopted ordinance establishing standardized fees, classifications, or uniform administrative requirements for the leasing of this facility. The proposed ordinance provides a structured framework to do the following:
- Establish clear rental classifications for Non-Profit / Not-for-Profit and For-Profit /
Commercial events
- Implement a transparent fee schedule approved by City Council
- Ensure full cost recovery for City services including utilities, traffic control, and staffing.
- Protect public assets
- Maintain compliance with applicable federal grant assurances
- Formalize insurance, indemnification, and operational requirements
This ordinance will promote transparency, fairness, and administrative efficiency while safeguarding City property and ensuring responsible use of the facility.
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Goal 2.2 - Support Community Gathering Spaces
Policy 2.2 (b) - Encourage community-oriented events in appropriate locations
Policy 2.2 (d) - Ensure public facilities are safe and well maintained
Goal 4.1 - Strengthen and Diversify the Local Economy
Policy 4.1(a) - Support development of infrastructure that enhances economic competitiveness
Policy 4.1(c) - Encourage responsible use of publicly owned assets to generate economic value
Goal 4.2 - Ensure Fiscal Responsibility and Sustainable Growth
Policy 4.2(a) - Promote financial sustainability of City operations
Policy 4.2(c) - Implement transparent fee structures and cost recovery mechanisms
Goal 5.1 - Promote Effective and Transparent Governance
Policy 5.1(a)- Increase transparency in City decision-making processes
Policy 5.1(c) - Improve consistency and accountability in City policies
Summary of alignment: This ordinance strongly aligns with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive plan by protecting a City-owned transportation asset, promoting fiscal responsibility, ensuring transparency in fee structures, and allowing structured community use in a safe and sustainable manner.”
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends the approval of this introductory ordinance.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N.
Source of Funds: Revenue
Account #: 242-0000-361-2060
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
This action establishes revenue-generating rental rates and ensures full cost recovery for City services associated with facility use. Revenues will be deposited into the appropriate Airport operating account 242-0000-361-2060.
There is no negative fiscal impact associated with adoption of this ordinance.