SUBJECT
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Public Hearing and Introductory Ordinance authorizing the City Manager to amend Community Development Department’s FY2026-2027 annual budget by increasing revenues and expenditures in the amount of $250,000 for the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA). The Community Development Department received an award in the amount of $250,000 to provide home modifications for the veteran’s community within the City of Laredo limits. Additionally, amending the FY2026-2027 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) position listing by adding one (1) Administrative Assistant (205) for the Community Development Department. There is no match requirement.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
On January 20, 2026 the City Council approved the submission of the TVC grant application through 2026-R-02.
BACKGROUND
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating: Strong
Supporting Goal(s)/Policy(ies)
Goal 7.1 - Improve the quality and affordability of housing in Laredo
"Support housing rehabilitation, emergency home repairs, and accessibility improvements to enable aging in place."
- Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 7.17
Policy 7.1.2 - Support programs to maintain or improve existing housing stock
"Support and expand programs for housing rehabilitation, emergency home repairs, weatherization, and energy efficiency upgrades."
- Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 7.17
Policy 7.1.3 - Support accessible and age-friendly housing options
"Incentivize rehabilitation and home modifications that accommodate persons with disabilities and aging populations."
- Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 7.17
Summary of alignment:
The proposed resolution aligns strongly with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan’s housing and accessibility goals. By seeking grant funding for home modifications tailored to veterans, the agenda item directly supports Goal 7.1, which emphasizes improving housing quality and affordability, and specifically promotes "accessibility improvements to enable aging in place."
It further supports Policy 7.1.2 and Policy 7.1.3, both of which advocate for home rehabilitation and modifications that serve vulnerable populations, including those with disabilities-a group that veterans with service-related impairments often fall within.
This resolution also touches on broader planning themes including equity, public health, and aging-in-place strategies by enabling Laredo’s veteran community to live safely and independently in their homes.
The Housing for Texas Heroes Grant Program was established to provide funding for home modification and repairs to improve accessibility and quality of life for veterans and their families. In the current year, the department proposes to assist seven (7) veteran homeowners or surviving spouses. The grant will provide up to $35,000.00 maximum limit total in home repairs per qualified household. To qualify, homeowner/occupied veteran or surviving spouse household income meet program requirements. Housing modifications, repairs, and weatherization include door entry/exit resizing, ramps, windows, HVAC, roofing, siding, flooring, electrical, plumbing, handrails, installation of grab bars and /or bathroom modifications.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
That this ordinance is introduced.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2026-2027
Budgeted Y/N?: N
Source of Funds: TVC
Account #: 212-5026
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
No match requirements. Increase revenues and expenditures in the amount of $250,000.